Josiah Ministry

Welcome To Josiah Ministries

Current Bible studies: Please click on any of the following Bible studies: Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God part II Wearing The Armor Of God My Files Tribute To My Mom Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God. part 3 Do You Know Who I Am> Now What? Prayer Requests Guest Book Child Like Fath / A Mustard seed of Faith Child Like Faith/A Mustard Seed Of Faith Part II

Who We Are?

We are born again servants of Jesus Christ. We believe that Jesus Christ is Gods' only son and he came to earth as a man and was crucified for our sins. By his death, burial and resurrection, we can have total forgiveness for all of our sins. As believers in Christ, we are called to a living relationship with him. The purpose of this site is to share Bible studies and materials to encourage growth in Christians. Part our goal is to encourage believers of Christ to experience the fullness of what God has for his children and fall in love with His word. (The Bible) This can only come as a result of time spent with our Lord and Savior.

Although only a child when he became King of Judah, Josiah brought tremendous reform and revival to Judah. In these times, the Church needs to return to the Lord completely and seek his face. God is not hiding, if we seek him we will find him. (Psalm 63)

The Holy Spirit

Part one

Our men’s Bible study has been studying the Holy Spirit. In our last lesson, we were asked to name some people

in the Old Testament who were filled with the Holy Spirit. King David and King Saul came to mind. Both were mightily filled with Holy Spirit and anointed King, but had entirely different results. David died and is forever remembered as “a man after God’s own heart” and the standard by which all Kings were measured. Saul died as a demonized man in rebellion apart from God. And a failure. How did this happen? In recent years I have noticed the same difference in those who received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Not dieing the same death as Saul, but never experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit we should expect. I believe that we have more control over this than we think. In Ezekiel 47, the Bible speaks of water flowing from the temple. First, a trickle, then to the ankles, then to the knees, then to the loins, and eventually a river that totally immerses the writer. As the river flows, it sustains all kinds of life downstream. Water is sometimes symbolic of the Holy Spirit in the Bible. (John 7:37-39 and John 4:13-14) I believe that is the case here. This section of Ezekiel is speaking of the restoration of the Temple and God’s people. He speaks of putting things in order (the requirement of the different rooms and implements of service). He also speaks of the people repenting and turning from their idols. The preparation was essential before the Spirit filled the Temple. In the cases of King David and King Saul, the conditions of their hearts made the difference in their outcomes. Although not perfect, David’s heart was right before the Lord, he had true repentance. His filling lasted his whole life. He became the standard by which all kings were measured. Saul often walked in direct disobedience of the Lord and eventually the Spirit was removed from him. 1 Samuel 16: 14-15 “Now the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord terrorized him. And Saul’s servants then said to him, behold now, an evil spirit from the Lord is terrorizing you”. Instead of true repentance, Saul had excuses. His heart was not fully given and it cost him.

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I have seen a number of people receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit and I have to ask “Why do the results differ from person to person?” To some believers (such as the original 120) it was a life changing event that changed their world and lasted a lifetime. To others it is like Saul’s, where the power is there in the beginning, but fades or disappears with time. In Luke 8:4-15, Jesus tell and explains the parable about the seeds. I think that some of the Church is in between the seed sown in the weeds and the seed sown on good ground. In seed sown on good ground, the result is obvious, as is seed sown in the weeds. Time will tell. In my own life, I have found that the more of this world I am willing to give up (TV, hobbies, and sinful behavior) the more of the Spirit I will walk in.

In John 14:16&17, Jesus speaks of the promise of the Holy Spirit. “Whom the world cannot receive”. As I read this, I wondered, “If I have too much of the world in me, am I hindering how much of the Holy Spirit I can receive?”

In a society filled with idols, are we trying to keep one foot in the world (in the weeds) and one foot on the fertile ground? If the Church wants a Pentecost type experience, maybe we should try to conduct ourselves as the original 120 did; In prayer, fellowship, devoted to the Word and breaking bread together. I know that God has so much more for me than I am experiencing now. I am determined to keep seeking until I find it. In Ezekiel 47: 7-12 the writer speaks of the great flow of the river sustaining life downstream and even making the sea fresh. This is what I see what started with the original 120 and spread throughout the whole world. If we are not content with ankle deep or calf deep filling of the Spirit, we can change that by our behavior. Verse 11 gives a warning that we should pay attention to. 11. But its’ swamps and marshes will not become fresh. They will be left for salt. A marsh is dead stagnate water that will not sustain life, Salt water will not sustain us either.

Throughout the years I’ve read about great men of God who were mightily used by God. I find it very encouraging to read about these people. I ask myself, Why not me? Or, Why not my church or community? If the same Holy Spirit that raised Jesus Christ from the dead and filled these saints’ lives in me, then why not me? In Luke 24:49, Jesus said; “And behold I am sending forth the promise of my father upon you, but you are to stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high”. They were blindly obedient to what Jesus told them to do and when the promised Holy Spirit came, the New Testament Church was born. I pray that this message encourages you to say, “Why not me”? Yours in Christ, Marty

WHEN THE WELL IS DRY

Years back, Robin Mark recorded a song called “Revival.” In one of the verses is the line “From the preacher preaching when the well is dry’ I’ve thought a lot about that line over the years. It’s talking about a preacher being able to preach through hard times. I relate it to preachers who went through the depression, times of sickness and disease, countries torn apart by war and oppression, or religious persecution. I liked to think I could have been one of those who despite hard times could still preach the Gospel without those circumstances affecting me.

After 25 years of painting and four surgeries, my hands are a mess. There is not a day that goes by when I don’t have some sort of reminder of the condition of my hands and my limitations. Over the last 12 years, I still have able to glorify God in my life and share the Gospel without it hindering me. I kind of considered it “preaching when the well is dry”. Although I had not been through wars, the depression, famine and disease, I thought my faith was tried and tested and I was doing alright. About a year ago, something changed in my right hand. The pain started going up my arm, through my elbow, my shoulder and into my neck. For over a month, there was nothing I could do to get a release from the pain. I couldn’t sleep or do anything that didn’t stir up the pain. My doctor checked my neck and could not find anything wrong. He sent me home with some muscle relaxers that didn’t help. At that point I prayed and sought the Lord more than before. After that the pain began to lift and return back to where it was before. I wish I could say that the pain never broke me, but I can’t. I can say that my seeking of God was more than I can remember and that God was there and delivered me. The only way to test our faith is to have to use it. There is no other way.

Over the years I have found great encouragement in reading the Psalms. I see the Lord delivering his children out of many attacks. The thing that we must see here is that he delivered his children “out” of them. I have seen the Lords divine protection and provision over myself and those around me. Seeing these and hearing a testimony of these things does build my faith. But there are times when deliverance comes during the attack. These are the times my faith has

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grown the most. Many times the Psalmist cried out and the Lord delivered him. We must understand that there is an enemy who desires to destroy Gods’ children. Not just our lives, but every part of our lives. He is also known as the accuser, trying to destroy our reputation. Not only before God, but in this world as well. I know that everyone will stand before God and give an account for their lives; I know that there is a price to be paid on earth as well for our actions. There are consequences for sin and a price to be paid. I must remember it is not up to me to decide when these will take place. I thank God that through the blood of Jesus all of my sins are covered.

I read about the suffering that many people are going through and know that my problems don’t compare with theirs, but they still hurt. The pain is real. In recent times I have had to face some of the most trying times of my life. I’ve heard the words “Lord don’t let me fall” throughout the Bible. I always thought it meant things like “don’t let me be defeated” or “don’t let me lose” and things like that. But in recent times I am seeing it as, Lord don’t let me fall away. There have been times where that has been my cry. I find encouragement in I Corinthians 10:13 13 No temptation has

overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what

you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. I must hold on to this verse and others like it to make it through these trials and testing of my faith. Sometimes I have to remind myself that the Bible is fully true and that it is for me today. I believe that God means what he says in it. As I was working on this message, my wife was starting her third day of a migraine headache that would not release. No amount of prayer or pain pills was breaking through. Our family has been going through a trial that is tearing my heart apart worse than anything I have ever been through. It feels like God is not hearing our prayers. In this silent time I have to decide if I really believe that the Bible is fully true in every situation or not. On that day the migraine started to go away and as I cried to the Lord, he heard my cry and started to speak to me through his word. As I have listened he is counseling me and bringing through these times. There seem to be opportunities to work this situation in the flesh, (mans way) or wait and see God’s solution. Sometimes these solutions are not even an option. As Israel fled the Egyptian army in Exodus 14, there was no place to flee and no way to fight. God was their only choice, he parted the sea and his people passed through safely. The Egyptian army perished when they tried to follow. Throughout the Bible there is many times where God delivered his people. During the attack, it seems as if the enemy can do anything they want to do. Many times it cost the attackers their lives, while other times they were driven back. I don’t know how God is going to deliver us from these times, but I know he is going to. One of my thoughts is, God did not bring us this far to just abandon us, I know he is faithful and will deliver us. During these times we must stand and know that our God is not only able, but desires to deliver us. Psalm 91, verse 14 he says “because he loves me I will save him” Hold on to those words and keep expecting deliverance from all attacks. I pray that this encourages you. Keep in prayer, I’ve never heard of anyone being accused of praying too much. Please leave comments or feedback in the guest book or email me at; martyg@josiah-ministries.com God bless you all, Marty Griffeth We cannot allow the enemies attacks to silence the Gospel of Jesus. The world must see the Church of Jesus Christ standing strong through all circumstances.

CHILD LIKE FAITH

Part II

In 2001, I spent many nights in the emergency room with Joan. Two of those nights the attending physician told me that he did not know if she would make it through the night. This was a result of C-dif, severe dehydration, possible kidney failure and number of other issues. Those were long nights. Through much prayer, Joan survived. Even though she was stable, she was never without complications and pain for the next four years. In 2005 we started attending the “Life in the Spirit” class at Northwest Church in Federal Way. Eventually Joan received prayer for this and was completely healed. What was once trying to kill Joan was gone. She started to enjoy a life without pain and sickness. This did not leave without a fight. It was a fight each time she went for prayer, but she continued and the Lord set her free. It was a battle for a while as the sickness tried to return. But at the name of Jesus, it had to leave. We are facing an enemy who wants to destroy us. But we stand with the authority that God gives his children. In Genesis 32:26 we hear Jacob speaking to “The Angel of the Lord” saying “ Then he said, “Let me go, for the dawn is breaking.” But he said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” Our continuing to seek healing was saying to Jesus “I will not let you go until you bless me” Joan’s healing was a battle we fought for a few years. Why? I don’t know. But I do know that she is healed and our pursuit was part of that. OBEDIANCE

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Most of the time, God does not work as we want him to. The Profit told Naaman to “dip himself in the Jordan river 7 times. This made Naaman furious, God was not doing it how Naaman wanted. When Naaman was obedient, his healing and restoration came. When we were members of the Northwest Church prayer team and Flames of Fire healing ministry, we saw the Lord heal many people. Sometimes it was instant and sometimes it came after they went home. Often times the Lord showed us things that needed to be worked through and other times it was as simple as saying “be healed in the name of Jesus.” There is no set way or formula to healing. I think it’s that way so that glory would given where glory is due. Jesus is not only our savior but our healer. If the Holy Spirit is giving us instructions, our part is simple, obey. GREED God’s giftings are free; we would do well to remember that. If Jesus didn’t charge for his services, why should we? Naaman could not buy his healing; we should understand that we can’t either. WHY WOULD GOD HEAL ME? Because he loves you and cares about you. That’s a good place to start. When Naaman returned to his own country, he no longer offered sacrifices to other Gods, only to the God of Israel. Naaman wanted to give glory where glory was due. I am certain that his household and all those around him saw the evidence and testimony of his healing. After Jesus cast all the demons out of Legion in Luke 8 and Mark 5, Legion wanted to leave with Jesus. But Jesus told him to return to his city and tell them about what the Lord did for him.

I have experienced great healings in my own life as well as in the lives of people around me. I don’t say this to brag, I say it to encourage those who read this to not give up. I hold on to these testimonies and want everyone to know what the Lord has done for me. To those under attack the church needs to stand with them and not let the enemy take another life. In John 14, Jesus said that we would do the things he did. Plus even greater things, I believe him. Throughout the Bible, God did not have a backup plan. I want my statement to be “I will not let you go until you bless me”

I know of ministries who still pray for the sick and see healings on a regular basis. Just ask. Don’t let anyone or anything keep you from what God has for you.

May the Lord bless and keep you. And make his face to shine upon you. In Christ, Marty Griffeth

You Are Not Alone In This Battle. If you have any prayer requests, leave them on our blog or email them to us. We would be honored to pray for you.

As you read through I and II Kings and Chronicles. You can see that because of Israel's rebellion, judgment is unavoidable. There were a few Godly Kings, but overall things did not look good for Israel or Judah. King Josiah was only 8 years old when he became King. His heart was right before the Lord and he began going through the land destroying the idols and their alters. I believe that Josiah’s' obedience touched the heart of God and judgment was delayed 31 years while he was King.

The sins of our land are increasing and it would appear that judgment is unavoidable. But I believe that if the true remnant of God's people would humble ourselves, repent and pray, that God would look at our hearts and postpone judgment. Whether Christ returns sooner or later, I pray that when He returns, he will find me doing my Fathers' business. The early church expected Christ to return in their lifetime. We should serve the Lord with that same mindset. I pray that these studies will encourage you to seek the Lord all the more as you see his return is near.

What brought us here?

We have been serving the Lord for over 25 years . We have worked in children’s ministry, youth, street ministry, worship, preaching/teaching and most recently we are part the prayer team for Flames of Fire Healing ministry. Our desire is to encour age all we meet to push them to draw nearer to God. I have found that the best way is to seek Gods face. There is no shortcut, it only comes by time spent with the Lord.(reading the Bible, prayer, worship and some times just sitting before him. We hope that these materials will encourage you to go on further in your walk with the Lord. As we post lessons, feel free to email us with questions.

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MartyG@josiah-ministries.com

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martyg@josiah-ministries.com

JOSIAH-MINISTRIES

Therefore, God Is Not Ashamed To Be Called Their God Part 1 Earlier this year, the

Lord started speaking to me about the prodigal son and his brother.(Luke 15:25-32) It’s easy for me to see the

brother to represent the church. I have heard it preached this way in the past and that makes sense to me. What

struck me this time was the father’s response to the brother as he pleaded for the brother to come to the

celebration. Vs 31 and he said to him. Son, you have always been with me and all that is mine is yours. If the

brother represents the Church, then our father is speaking to us saying “all that is mine is yours” I have to ask

myself, am I living a life that reflects this statement? The Bible is full of promises for his children, am I living like I

receive these for myself? (Healing… Matthew 9:35, protection, provision, deliverance….etc…Hebrews 13:5&6, John 14 12-

14, John 21:24&25, Mark 16:15-18) I’m trying, but I know I’m not receiving the fullness of what God has for me. After

reading this the Lord led me to the last 4 chapters of Hebrews. Especially the 11th chapter. In this chapter some of

the Saints of God who were able to trust God are listed and commended. These saints were not perfect, but

believed that God would do what He said He would do. These Saints lived a life that reflected that expectation.

Chapter 11, verse 16, says “Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God.” As believers, can that be said

about us? It is one thing to be able to quote the promises of the Bible, but are we able to live a lifestyle that shows

that we truly believe that these promises are for us. When we pray, do we really believe that God will answer our prayers regardless of what we see around us. As you read about these saints, you would see that they were not a

whole lot different than you and I. Not many were of noble birth or great education or highly esteemed, but they

were convinced that God would do what He said He would do. At times they stumbled, but when they returned to

the Lord, He delivered them. God will do the same for us. As we have ministered to people over the years, often

times the people we meet have very little evidence of time spent with the Lord. In Deuteronomy 5, starting at verse

22, the people were afraid of hearing Gods voice and told Moses to go before God and relay to them Gods message .

This is not OK! This seemed to be the way Israel handled God after he led them out of Egypt. Because of Christ we are now told “let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Heb. 4:16. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus.

Heb.10:19. As Spirit filled believers, we can come right into the Holy of Holies, (presence of God) because of

Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf. We no longer need a priest to enter on our behalf, (nor should we want one) we

have access to the throne ourselves. God’s desire is to have fellowship with us, His children, directly. There are

great pastors and teachers in the church and a great deal of Christian resources available. (Books, internet, TV,

radio….etc) But Gods desire is for us to seek Him in his Word or by time spent with Him. If we put away the

distractions and entertainment and make God our priority He will meet with us. I believe God wants us to push ourselves until we find Him. When we do, we will never settle for anything less than the true presence of God in

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our lives. When God says “all that I have is yours” it makes me look at my needs differently. I can see God meeting

my needs, fighting my battles, protecting my family. (see list of verses at the end) Everything I need! When I read

God’s word, I expect to hear the Holy Spirit speak to me. When the Lord spoke to the saints listed in Hebrews 11, they knew that God would do exactly what He said He would do. My desire is to do the same. I want to pursue the

Lord and have Him be able to say of me, “I am not ashamed to be his God” As I read the Bible now, I see myself

in its pages; I know that God loves me as much as every person in there. The same Holy Spirit of the old and new

testament fills me. The same Holy Spirit that performed the miracles of Jesus fills me. The same Holy Spirit that

was poured out in Acts chapter 2 fills me. The same Holy Spirit that raised Jesus Christ from the dead fills me.

When I read the words “all that is mine is your” I receive that for myself.

Please take some time and read about the saints listed in Hebrews 11. Know that God loves you just as much and He has promises just for you. Our part is to seek them out.

1. Joseph; Genesis 37-502. Abraham and Sarah; Genesis 12-253. Rahab; Joshua 2 and Joshua 7:22-234.

Barak; Judges 4-55. Jephthah; Judges 11-126. David; I Samuel 16-31 and II Samuel 1-247. Samuel; I and II

Samuel I pray that God will reveal himself to you more as you read and spend time with him. May God richly

bless you. In Christ, Marty Griffeth josiah-ministries.com

JOSIAH-MINISTRIES

The Holy Spirit Part one Our men’s Bible study has been studying the Holy Spirit. In our last lesson, we were asked to name some people in the Old Testament who were filled with the Holy Spirit. King David and King Saul came to mind. Both were mightily filled with Holy Spirit and anointed King, but had entirely different results. David died and is forever remembered as “a man after God’s own heart” and the standard by which all Kings were measured. Saul died as a demonized man in rebellion apart from God. And a failure. How did this happen? In recent years I have noticed the same difference in those who received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Not dying the same death as Saul, but never experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit we should expect. I believe that we have more control over this than we think. In Ezekiel 47, the Bible speaks of water flowing from the temple. First, a trickle, then to the ankles, then to the knees, then to the loins, and eventually a river that totally immerses the writer. As the river flows, it sustains all kinds of life downstream. Water is sometimes symbolic of the Holy Spirit in the Bible. (John 7:37-39 and John 4:13-14) I believe that is the case here. This section of Ezekiel is speaking of the restoration of the Temple and God’s people. He speaks of putting things in order (the requirement of the different rooms and implements of service). He also speaks of the people repenting and turning from their idols. The preparation was essential before the Spirit filled the Temple. In the cases of King David and King Saul, the conditions of their hearts made the difference in their outcomes. Although not perfect, David’s heart was right before the Lord, he had true repentance. His filling lasted his whole life. He became the standard by which all kings were measured. Saul often walked in direct disobedience of the Lord and eventually the Spirit was removed from him. 1 Samuel 16: 14-15 “Now the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord terrorized him. And Saul’s servants then said to him, behold now, an evil spirit from the Lord is terrorizing you”. Instead of true repentance, Saul had excuses. His heart was not fully given and it cost him. I have seen a number of people receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit and I have to ask “Why do the results differ from person to person?” To some believers (such as the original 120) it was a life changing event that changed their world and lasted a lifetime. To others it is like Saul’s, where the power is there in the beginning, but fades or disappears with time. In Luke 8:4-15, Jesus tell and explains the parable about the seeds. I think that some of the Church is in between the seed sown in the weeds and the seed sown on good ground. In seed sown on good ground, the result is obvious, as is seed

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sown in the weeds. Time will tell. In my own life, I have found that the more of this world I am willing to give up (TV, hobbies, and sinful behavior) the more of the Spirit I will walk in. In John 14:16&17, Jesus speaks of the promise of the Holy Spirit. “Whom the world cannot receive”. As I read this, I wondered, “If I have too much of the world in me, am I hindering how much of the Holy Spirit I can receive?” In a society filled with idols, are we trying to keep one foot in the world (in the weeds) and one foot on the fertile ground? If the Church wants a Pentecost type experience, maybe we should try to conduct ourselves as the original 120 did; In prayer, fellowship, devoted to the Word and breaking bread together. I know that God has so much more for me than I am experiencing now. I am determined to keep seeking until I find it. In Ezekiel 47: 7-12 the writer speaks of the great flow of the river sustaining life downstream and even making the sea fresh. This is what I see what started with the original 120 and spread throughout the whole world. If we are not content with ankle deep or calf deep filling of the Spirit, we can change that by our behavior. Verse 11 gives a warning that we should pay attention to. 11. But its’ swamps and marshes will not become fresh. They will be left for salt. A marsh is dead stagnate water that will not sustain life, Salt water will not sustain us either. Throughout the years I’ve read about great men of God who were mightily used by God. I find it very encouraging to read about these people. I ask myself, Why not me? Or, Why not my church or community? If the same Holy Spirit that raised Jesus Christ from the dead and filled these saints’ lives in me, then why not me? In Luke 24:49, Jesus said; “And behold I am sending forth the promise of my father upon you, but you are to stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high”. They were blindly obedient to what Jesus told them to do and when the promised Holy Spirit came, the New Testament Church was born. I pray that this message encourages you to say, “Why not me”? Yours in Christ, Marty

WHEN THE WELL IS DRY

Years back, Robin Mark recorded a song called “Revival.” In one of the verses is the line “From the preacher preaching when the well is dry’ I’ve thought a lot about that line over the years. It’s talking about a preacher being able to preach through hard times. I relate it to preachers who went through the depression, times of sickness and disease, countries torn apart by war and oppression, or religious persecution. I liked to think I could have been one of those who despite hard times could still preach the Gospel without those circumstances affecting me.

After 25 years of painting and four surgeries, my hands are a mess. There is not a day that goes by when I don’t have some sort of reminder of the condition of my hands and my limitations. Over the last 12 years, I still have able to glorify God in my life and share the Gospel without it hindering me. I kind of considered it “preaching when the well is dry”. Although I had not been through wars, the depression, famine and disease, I thought my faith was tried and tested and I was doing alright. About a year ago, something changed in my right hand. The pain started going up my arm, through my elbow, my shoulder and into my neck. For over a month, there was nothing I could do to get a release from the pain. I couldn’t sleep or do anything that didn’t stir up the pain. My doctor checked my neck and could not find anything wrong. He sent me home with some muscle relaxers that didn’t help. At that point I prayed and sought the Lord more than before. After that the pain began to lift and return back to where it was before. I wish I could say that the pain never broke me, but I can’t. I can say that my seeking of God was more than I can remember and that God was there and delivered me. The only way to test our faith is to have to use it. There is no other way.

Over the years I have found great encouragement in reading the Psalms. I see the Lord delivering his children out of many attacks. The thing that we must see here is that he delivered his children “out” of them. I have seen the Lords divine protection and provision over myself and those around me. Seeing these and hearing a testimony of these things does build my faith. But there are times when deliverance comes during the attack. These are the times my faith has grown the most. Many times the Psalmist cried out and the Lord delivered him. We must understand that there is an enemy who desires to destroy Gods’ children. Not just our lives, but every part of our lives. He is also known as the accuser, trying to destroy our reputation. Not only before God, but in this world as well. I know that everyone will stand before God and give an account for their lives; I know that there is a price to be paid on earth as well for our actions. There are consequences for sin and a price to be paid. I must remember it is not up to me to decide when these will take place. I thank God that through the blood of Jesus all of my sins are covered.

Josiah Ministry

I read about the suffering that many people are going through and know that my problems don’t compare with

theirs, but they still hurt. The pain is real. In recent times I have had to face some of the most trying times of my life. I’ve heard the words “Lord don’t let me fall” throughout the Bible. I always thought it meant things like “don’t let me be defeated” or “don’t let me lose” and things like that. But in recent times I am seeing it as, Lord don’t let me fall away. There have been times where that has been my cry. I find encouragement in I Corinthians 10:13 13 No temptation has

overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what

you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. I must hold on to this verse and others like it to make it through these trials and testing of my faith. Sometimes I have to remind myself that the Bible is fully true and that it is for me today. I believe that God means what he says in it. As I was working on this message, my wife was starting her third day of a migraine headache that would not release. No amount of prayer or pain pills was breaking through. Our family has been going through a trial that is tearing my heart apart worse than anything I have ever been through. It feels like God is not hearing our prayers. In this silent time I have to decide if I really believe that the Bible is fully true in every situation or not. On that day the migraine started to go away and as I cried to the Lord, he heard my cry and started to speak to me through his word. As I have listened he is counseling me and bringing through these times. There seem to be opportunities to work this situation in the flesh, (mans way) or wait and see God’s solution. Sometimes these solutions are not even an option. As Israel fled the Egyptian army in Exodus 14, there was no place to flee and no way to fight. God was their only choice, he parted the sea and his people passed through safely. The Egyptian army perished when they tried to follow. Throughout the Bible there are many times where God delivered his people. During the attack, it seems as if the enemy can do anything they want to do. Many times it cost the attackers their lives, while other times they were driven back. I don’t know how God is going to deliver us from these times, but I know he is going to. One of my thoughts is, God did not bring us this far to just abandon us, I know he is faithful and will deliver us. During these times we must stand and know that our God is not only able, but desires to deliver us. Psalm 91, verse 14 he says “because he loves me I will save him” Hold on to those words and keep expecting deliverance from all attacks. I pray that this encourages you. Keep in prayer, I’ve never heard of anyone being accused of praying too much. Please leave comments or feedback in the guest book or email me at; martyg@josiah-ministries.com God bless you all, Marty Griffeth We cannot allow the enemies attacks to silence the Gospel of Jesus. The world must see the Church of Jesus Christ standing strong through all circumstances.

Therefore, God Is Not Ashamed To Be Called Their God

Part 2 Shepherds and Pastors Psalm 78:68-72 (AMP) 68 But He chose the tribe of Judah [as Israel’s leader], Mount Zion, which He loved [to replace Shiloh as His capital]. 69 And He built His sanctuary [exalted] like the heights [of the heavens] and like the earth which He established forever. 70 He chose David His servant and took him from the sheepfolds; 71 From tending the ewes that had their young He brought him to be the shepherd of Jacob His people, of Israel His inheritance. 72 So [David] was their shepherd with an upright heart; he guided them by the discernment and skillfulness [which controlled] his hands. This message is about Shepherds and Pastors. As I read and spent time with the Lord, I am convinced that it is for the whole Church. Pastors have a tremendous responsibility in caring for those whom have been entrusted to them. In the same way every Christian has people in their lives that God entrusted to them to care for. As you read this study, try to see yourself in this position. What does God find commendable in a shepherd? I believe that an Old Testament example is King David. Almost all Kings who reigned were compared to David. I Samuel 17:33 And Saul said to David, ”You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are but a youth, and he has been a man of war from his youth.“ 34But David said to Saul, ”Your servant used to keep sheep for his father; and when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, 35 I went after him and smote him and delivered it out of his mouth; and if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him and killed him. 36Your servant has killed both lions and bears; and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God. “37And David said,”The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the

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paw of the bear, will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.“ And Saul said to David ,”Go, and the LORD be with you! “

When the lion and the bear took the sheep, David was not willing to let a single sheep that was entrusted to him perish. He pursued the lion and took the sheep from lion’s mouth and killed the lion. In Luke 14:3-10, Jesus tells of the lost sheep and coin, he speaks of how important it is to pursue and find that which is lost. Please note that neither David nor Jesus contemplated why the sheep was in danger or that it deserved its fate. They did not count their losses and be thankful for the rest of the flock that got away. They did not flee to safety like the hireling. (See John 10:7-18) Or consider it too late to save them. In giving the ultimate sacrifice, Jesus gave his life for his sheep.

As I read the next verses, some commentators could not understand how Paul could say that he would even be cut off from Christ if it would mean his fellow countrymen be saved. From an intellectual stand point of view it does not make sense. But to one that Jesus might call a “good shepherd” it makes sense. This is a love that only God can birth in us. Only as we grow in our relationship with the Lord can we walk in a love like this.

Romans 9:1-3 (AMP) 1 I AM speaking the truth in Christ. I am not lying; my conscience [enlightened and prompted] by the Holy Spirit bearin g witness with me 2 that I have bitter grief and incessant anguish in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off and banished from Christ for the sake of my brethren and instead of them, my natural kinsmen and my fellow countrymen.

Please read the 17th chapter of John. Jesus speaks of those whom God gave him and how he kept them. We do not get to pick and choose who our sheep are. Usually these sheep will not look like us or act like us, but often times that is how God works. Sheep can be dirty smelly dull animals, not cute and cuddly that we see in some pictures. We live in a fallen world and all of the people we minister to are from the same place. The same way that Jesus said to leave the 99 to find the one, we must be willing to do the same. There may be some sheep that won’t come, but it should not be because their shepherd did not pursue them. As a minister, how could I expect more from the Lord if I am not being faithful with what he has already entrusted to me?

I worked with a man for over 20 years and during that time we had some conversations about Christianity and our beliefs. His walk may not have been perfect, but I felt he had a general knowledge of Christ. I had not seen him for almost ten years and heard recently that on a Saturday be was diagnosed with a brain tumor and on the following Thursday he died. I always thought of him as a friend. As I was thinking about him, I sensed the Holy Spirit say “If he were a friend you would have told him about Jesus one more time.” I do not know his eternal fate, but I do not ever want to hear that again.

All of us are called to bring Jesus Christ to a dying world. This is not about making a name for ourselves, but it’s about not letting a single person entrusted to us perish (die without Christ). To those who have answered the call to be a shepherd as well as those who are laypeople, I pray that Christ will give you his heart for your sheep. In Matthew 23:37-39 and Luke 19:41-44 you can see his heart for his sheep.

Matthew 23:37-39“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, killing the prophets and stoning those who are sent to you! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not! 38 Behold, your house is forsaken and desolate. 39 For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’” Luke 19:41-44 as he came near and saw the city, he wept over it, 42 saying, “If you, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 Indeed, the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up ramparts around you and surround you, and hem you in on every side. 44 They will crush you to the ground, you and your children within you, and they will not leave within you one stone upon another; because you did not recognize the time of your visitation from God.”

This last week I heard a Pastor brings a message of salvation to his congregation. It was not just a generic message but it was the Pastors heart crying out to them. Not willing for a single one to perish. I want that kind of heart for those entrusted to me. There is going to be a day when we stand before the Lord and give an accounting for our lives. Our goal should be to say like Jesus said, “I did not lose any that you gave me.” By spending some time reading all of the Gospels, you can see the example that Christ (the Good Shepherd) lived.

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The disciples believed that Jesus would return in their lifetime. They preached the Gospel with a sense of urgency. In this day and age we must do the same. When we stand before the Lord, we should want to hear him say, “Well done my good and faithful servants, enter into your rest”

I pray that this message will encourage you to pursue the Lord more and more each day until the day we see Jesus face to face.

In Christ, Marty Griffeth

JOSIAH-MINISTRIES

CHILD LIKE FAITH / a MUSTARD SEED OF FAITH Part 1ll Kings 5: 1 Now

Naaman, captain of the army of the king of Aram, was a great man with his master, and highly respected, because by him the LORD had given victory to Aram. The man was also a valiant warrior, but he was a leper. 2 Now the Arameans had gone out in bands and had taken captive a little girl from the land of Israel; and she waited on Naaman’s wife. 3 She said to her mistress, “I wish that my master were with the prophet who is in Samaria! Then he would cure him of his leprosy.” 4 Naaman went in and told his master, saying, “Thus and thus spoke the girl who is from the land of Israel.” 5 Then the king of Aram said, “Go now, and I will send a letter to the king of Israel.” He departed and took with him ten talents of silver and six thousand shekels of gold and ten changes of clothes.

As you read about Naamans’ healing, notice that it starts with a child saying “I wish that my master were with the prophet who is in Samaria! Then he would cure him of his leprosy.” Before she was taken captive, there must have been some sort of testimony of miraculous healing in her life. She might have witnessed them or heard stories about them. She simply believed that God would heal her master. Her faith must have brought hope to Naaman that he could be healed. On just her statement, the King made arrangements for the trip to find the “Prophet in Samaria” ll Kings 5: 6 He brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, “And now as this letter comes to you, behold, I have sent Naaman my servant to you, that you may cure him of his leprosy.” 7 When the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes and said, “Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man is sending word to me to cure a man of his leprosy? But consider now, and see how he is seeking a quarrel against me.” 8 It happened when Elisha the man of God heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes, that he sent word to the king, saying, “Why have you torn your clothes? Now let him comes to me, and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.” 9 So Naaman came with his horses and his chariots and stood at the doorway of the house of Elisha.

It must have been a humbling experience for Naaman to go to Elisha’s’ house to receive his healing, but when you are

desperate enough you will do a lot of things. Even ask your enemy’s God to heal you. II Kings 5: 10 Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your f lesh will be restored to you and you will be clean.” 11 But Naaman was furious and went away and said, “Behold, I 1thought, ‘He will surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, and wave his hand over the place and cure the leper.’ 12 “Are not Abanah and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?” So he turned and went away in a rage. 13 Then his servants came near and spoke to him and said, “My father, had the prophet told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more then, when he says to you, ‘Wash, and be clean’?” 14 So he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the word of the man of God; and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child and he was clean. 15 When he returned to the man of God with all his company, and came and stood before him, he said, “Behold now, I know that there is no God in all the earth, but in Israel; so please take a present from your servant now.” 16 But he said, “As the LORD lives, before whom I stand, I will take nothing.” And he urged him to take it, but he refused. 17 Naaman said, “If not, please let your servant at least be given two mules’ load of earth; for your servant will no longer offer burnt offering nor will he sacrifice to other gods, but to the LORD.

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As I read this passage, there are number of things that stand out to me. The first was the child’s faith that started

this passage. Her speaking this to her master must have been what it was like as word of the miracles of Jesus must have spread during Jesus’ ministry years. As they witnessed the miracles, they must have thought, “Why not me”? There was no disease, infirmity or anyone crippled that Jesus could not heal. As Naaman set out to find the Prophet, he had to travel to Samaria. He went to the King of Israel and then to the Profit of God. As word about Jesus spread, some people had to search for him. And when they found him, he healed them. Finding someone back then could not have been easy, but they still came. The idea of trying to find Jesus without the benefit of TV, radio, an address book or the internet is hard to imagine, but they found him. When they did he healed them all. Some people who sought healing must have been desperate. There was no cure for leprosy. In Mark 5, can you see the desperation of the little girl’s father who was sick and then died before Jesus arrived? Or the woman with the issue of blood, she was considered unclean and not allowed to touch anyone. Yet she reached out and touched the hem of his garment and was healed. The Gospels are filled with those who Jesus healed. The same Spirit that filled Jesus is in us. In John 14:12 Jesus said “ I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father.” Maybe our question should not be, “does Jesus still heal?” But, I know he still heals, why not me? Jesus loves us just as much as he love d everyone he healed and delivered back then! We have known people who came to prayer meetings for six weeks or more before they received their healing. Others received it immediately. Sometimes there are things that have to be worked out or maybe they need to meet their savior as their healer or deliverer. Many times we don’t know. It isn’t a formula or saying the right words. It is God doing what he said he would do. One of the hardest things to see is those, who for whatever purpose won’t even try or give up. In my own life I have experienced miracles. After my Grandmother and her Pastor prayed for me I was healed of cancer when I was ten. When the tumors were removed, all of the cancer in the tumors was gone. All that remained was a trace of cat scratch fever. I wore eye glasses from the age 14 until about 18 years ago. I received prayer for my eyes and I now have 20/20 vision. I still have battles where my healing has not come yet. But I won’t give up. Luke 11: 9 So I say to you, Ask and keep on asking and it shall be given you; seek and keep on seeking and you shall find; knock and keep on knocking and the door shall be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks and keeps on asking receives; and he who seeks and keeps on seeking finds; and to him who knocks and keeps on knocking, the door shall be opened. 11 What father among you, if his son asks for a loaf of bread, will give him a stone; or if he asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, evil as you are, know how to give good gifts [gifts that are to their advantage] to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask and continue to ask Him!

I believe the simplest definition of Biblical faith is: “believing that God can and will do what he says he will do.” Unless they have learned otherwise, a child believes that their parent will provide for them and do what they say they will do for the child. That’s what childlike faith looks like to me. We are told in: Philippians 4:6&7” Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. 7 And God’s peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. James 5: 13 Is anyone among you afflicted (ill-treated, suffering evil)? He should pray. Is anyone glad at heart? He should sing praise [to God]. 14 Is anyone among you sick? He should call in the church elders (the spiritual guides). And they should pray over him, anointing him with oil in the Lord’s name. 15 And the prayer [that is] of faith will save him who is sick, and the Lord will restore him; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. As I close I pray that those who read this will be encouraged to pursue all that the Lord has for you. I’ve seen the subject of healing divide Gods’ people at a time when his people should standing together as one. If you have questions or comments, feel free to ask. Part ll will talk further on pursuing, obedience, greed and the question “Why would God heal me?” May the Lord bless and keep you, and make his face shine upon you and give you peace. In Christ, Marty Griffeth

The Children’s Equipping Ministry is our school for children between the ages of 5 years old thru 12 years old. This ministry school model is broken up according to grade and learning level. Our goal and desire is to equip children with the fundamentals of

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the Christian faith, while empowering them to hear the voice of God. We believe that the children have the same Holy Spirit as the adults and when equipped will move in great faith releasing the Kingdom of Heaven in their life.

There is a foundational track of teaching that anchors the children to the basics of the Christian faith and establishes a

Christ-Centered identity in their lives. Once this learning is completed they will move into how to follow the lead of the

Holy Spirit and operate the gifts of the Holy Spirit. There is a level of faith that the children operate in that creates a

culture of miracles and love. Our Children’s Ministry is committed to releasing this truth at the Josiah Center.

Christ Minded

1. Do Not Waste Time Feeling Sorry for Themselves.

A Christ Minded person will not feel sorry for their circumstances or dwelling on the way they’ve been mistreated. They forgive and take responsibility for their actions and outcomes. They are able to emerge from trying circumstances with a deeper faith and thankfulness. (Mark 11:25; 1Thes. 5:18; Gen. 45:7-8).

2. Do Not Give Away Their Power.

A Christ Minded person will avoid giving others the power to make them feel inferior or bad. They understand their identity is found in and through Christ, not through how others think of them. They know they have the strength to respond differently. (John 14:10; John 18:33-38; Eph. 6:10-12; 1 Sam 24:1-15)

3. Do Not Shy Away from Change.

A Christ Minded person will embrace change and they welcome challenge. They fear nothing, but have faith in all circumstances. Being complacent and stagnant is not an option. An environment of change and even uncertainty can energize a Christ Minded person and bring out their best because faith and surrender is being exercised.

4. Do Not Waste Energy on Things They Can’t Control.

A Christ Minded person will not complain about bad traffic, lost luggage, or especially about other people, as they recognize that all of these factors are generally beyond their control. In a bad situation, they recognize that the one thing they can always control is their own response and attitude, and they use these attributes well.

5. Do Not Worry About Pleasing Others.

Know any people pleasers? Or, conversely, people who go out of their way to displease others as a way of reinforcing an image of strength? Neither position is a good one. A Christ Minded person strives to be kind and fair and to please others where appropriate, but is unafraid to speak up. Again, their identity is secure in and through Christ so they are able to withstand the possibility that someone will get upset and will navigate the situation, wherever possible, with grace.

6. Do Not Fear Taking Calculated Risks.

A Christ Minded person is willing to take calculated risks. This is a different thing entirely than jumping headlong into foolish risks. But with a Christ mind, an individual will trust God and the faithfulness of His goodness. Faith is Risk.

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Audacious faith is fearless faith that will meet challenges and take God-kind of risks that will result in God receiving all the glory.

7. Do Not Dwell on the Past.

There is strength in acknowledging the past and especially in acknowledging the things learned from past experiences—but a Christ Minded person is able to avoid miring their mental thoughts in past disappointments or in fantasies of the “glory days” gone by. A Christ Minded person finds rest and peace in the present situations because the past has lost its power. Christ minded people do not drive their life constantly looking in the review mirror but are focused on their call and purpose always living in the moment and pressing into the future.

8. Do Not Make the Same Mistakes Over and Over.

We all know the definition of insanity, right? It’s when we take the same actions again and again while hoping for a different and better outcome than we’ve gotten before. A Christ Minded person accepts full responsibility for past behavior and is willing to learn from mistakes. The children of Israel never could change their slave mindset thereby kept traveling around the same mountain for 40 years. A Christ mind is able to look at mistakes and tap into the creativity of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of God to make a different outcome.

9. Do Not Resent Other People’s Success.

It takes a Christ like character and love to feel genuine joy and excitement for other people’s success. Christ Minded people have this ability. They don’t become jealous or resentful when others succeed. The fruit of the Holy Spirit is their expression and love is their cornerstone.

10. Do Not Give Up After Failure.

Every failure is a chance to improve. Even the hall of fame of faith is full of individuals who have failed and made mistakes. Christ Minded people will find success in their failure. Not my will, but Your will be done! In failure, a Christ minded person grows and becomes more reliant on the truths and promises of God. Failure does not exist to the Christ minded person because our identity is not found in “what we do” but “what we do” is founded on “who we are.” If we are walking by true faith and taking faith risks, failure will be experienced, however, failure does not define a Christ minded person, but propels them to greater success.

11. Do Not Fear Alone Time.

A Christ Minded person enjoys and even treasures the time they spend alone with God. They use their downtime to reflect, to plan, and to be productive with the Holy Spirit. A Christ minded person understands that we are to walk by the Spirit and not the flesh. The most productive time for a Christ minded person is their down time with God.

12. Do Not Feel the World Owes Them Anything.

A Christ minded person will enter the world prepared to work and succeed based on who they are and not what they can do. Entitlement steels and binds people into a mindset of selfishness and pride. The world owes and Christ minded person nothing, but rather a Christ minded person understands the responsibility of owing the world an encounter with God. A Christ minded person does not rely on the world for their blessing, but receive their blessing from God and then gives to those in need. A Christ minded person is a servant above all, because they understand what they carry.

13. Do Not Expect Immediate Results.

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Whether it’s a workout plan, a nutritional regimen, or starting a business, Christ Minded people are “in it for the long haul”. They have “staying power.” They have a vision for the generations to come. Christ minded people understand that genuine change takes time. However, in this place there is an expectation and anticipation for the “suddenlies” of God to be experienced. A Christ Minded person will expect miracles, and yet, live in the present giving all they have to the advancement of the Kingdom of God.

Do you have a Christ mind? Are there elements on this list you need to change your thinking around (repent)?

Josiah Center 2014 ©

Josiah’s Story It was Sunday, February 21st, 2010 at 11:55 am and I had just walked into our house from a quick trip up

to our cabin to grab an entertainment center that we were

going to have painted and placed in our newly remodeled

great room and kitchen. As I walked into our house with

flooring missing, walls unpainted, and day to day “stuff” all

over due to the remodel, my little peanut, Josiah, came

running over to me and grabbed my leg begging me to pick

him up, “dada up?” I rubbed his beautiful little blond head

and responded, “give me second, buddy, I have to go move

the truck”. I proceeded to go out the front door. A few

moments later Josiah followed me out.

When I pulled the truck out into the street, I glanced into my review mirror and saw what changed my family forever. In the center of my mirror was Josiah’s little body lying in the middle of our driveway. My heart broke. I knew I had hit my son.

I threw open my door and ran out from the truck to pick up his fragile little body, struggling instinctively to breath. I cried out for my son, Andrew, to have Mom call 911 as I prayed and prayed and prayed for my son’s survival. I brought our little boy into our house where Julie proceeded to give him mouth-to- mouth resuscitation to revive him. Soon, First Response arrived, taking over our efforts and bringing him to the hospital. Though desperate, we stood on our faith and

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believed that Abba was going to heal our son. Julie climbed into the ambulance with Josiah and I climbed into our mini-van with my two older sons and we raced to the hospital, hoping for a miracle.

I walked into the hospital to a scene of medical doctors and nurses moving in organized chaos trying desperately to revive Josiah’s little body. There were wires and tubes protruding from his little body as he laid lifeless on the hospital gurney. My beautiful and heartbroken wife sat next to Josiah grasping his little hand, fighting spiritually and believing for a healing miracle that would rescue our son from death. As I looked at the scene before me, everything began to move in slow motion. I knew my son was dying and nothing in this world could stop it. A flood of emotions began to hit my soul as my mind filled with how all this happened at my hands, how I was responsible for my son’s current condition; I, his dad, who was to be his protector, sustainer, and nurturer. As I looked over the frantic emergency room, I noticed my son’s little sock lying on the floor, all alone, out of place. I couldn’t help but think how that sock represented my son in this whole situation. My heart was broken, but my faith stirred. I bent over to pick it up and I kept it in my pocket desperate for my son’s restoration.

At 1:15 p.m. the hospital staff pronounced my son, Josiah, dead. They gave his body to us to hold and say goodbye. As friends and family converged onto the hospital in faith and love, we continued to pray and believe God for a miracle…a resurrection…a healing. We prayed over Josiah until 5:00 p.m. when the nurse, following protocol, was instructed to take Josiah. At this moment, Julie and I resolved to continue the fight for our son. We focused our faith on Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection, resigning to the truth that Abba is bigger than our circumstances. We believed a miracle was going to happen.

We warred with friends and family in prayer for the next four days and nights, believing that a miracle of resurrection would occur. We embraced each other as a family and declared that no matter what happened, our family was going to remain strong and united. Julie, Josh, Andrew and I prayed and committed ourselves to unity and trust in Abba. We kept our focus on His overwhelming goodness, not getting caught up in mental and emotional lies experienced during this battle. It was during this time that the Holy Spirit put on my heart that I would pastor the “funeral” service for my son. I knew that it was not going to be a traditional funeral or celebration of a life, but that I was going to stand before family and friends and declare the truth of Abba’s Word and the power of His resurrection.

The service was called “The Awakening”. The message focused on the goodness of God and the power to be raised. When Josiah did not rise during the first service, we decided to continue worshipping and praying for a miracle throughout the entire night. We corporately believed that Abba was going to release His Kingdom upon us and totally change the circumstances around us. We were given permission to keep Josiah’s body all night as we stayed in the church, worshipping, praying and believing.

It was an amazing scene. Sixty to one hundred people throughout the night would join together in song and dance, praising Abba and all of His goodness, declaring His life-giving truth, and standing together in unity and faith. The children waved flags and danced around Josiah’s coffin, spiritual dance and joy filled the scene as child-like faith and love was displayed and glorified our King and Savior. True worshippers arose that night. We defied religion, traditions, doubt, fear and unbelief as we stood in a place of complete surrender and trust in our Redeemer and our King. We worshipped until 12:00 p.m. on Friday, February 26th, 2010. At that time the mortuary attendants needed to seal the coffin and prepare it for burial at 1:00p.m.

A shift occurred in my heart and in my faith. I realized that for the first time since Sunday at noon that my son was going to be with Jesus for eternity. There is an emptiness that occurs in a parent’s heart when you have a child die before you. There are many thoughts and lies that begin to fill your head painting pictures of inadequacy and unworthiness. There is a realization, a disconnect that occurs where everything you are experiencing does not feel real. The warfare that was raging in my head and in my heart is difficult to explain, but I realized that at this moment, my faith could not be about what we had experienced, it had to be fortified upon the Truth of God’s Word.

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My family and I resolved that we were not going to allow this experience to hinder our faith; instead we decided to pursue God’s Kingdom with more zeal and passion than ever before. We committed Josiah as a seed to the revival movement throughout this earth and began to stand upon the phrase, “on earth as it is in Heaven.” We committed ourselves to be a part of Abba’s great revival movement in these last days declaring and living out His love and power in all that we do.

The morning after we buried Josiah’s body and said goodbye to him for now, I was in prayer at our cabin. The Holy Spirit asked me, “Why don’t you name it the Josiah Center?” Immediately, I understood the mandate. It was now time to establish a revival/worship center in St. Paul to begin establishing God’s breakthrough presence; His dominion in His land. Josiah’s destiny and legacy was to usher people into God’s presence through worship, and the Josiah Center would be an extension of that purpose.

The Holy Spirit has made it very clear over the last three years that the resurrection and awakening that we expected through Josiah’s experience was actually bigger than my son. God is reviving His body and His Church. God impressed upon me that through our faith and trust in Him during Josiah’s accident, He was breaking through the bedrock of generational doubt, traditions and fears. He was releasing a Spirit of faith that would empower His Church to usher in our Lord and King in these days to come!

Josiah was twenty-two months old when he went home to be with Jesus. We long for him each day. However, through his life and his death, we have learned that we cannot ask the questions “why” or get caught up in the “should haves” and “could haves” of circular thinking. The Holy Spirit showed us early in the grieving process that by asking the question “why” the only answer that could come would be one that would sacrifice the absolute truths of the Word of God through our human reasoning. We had to turn our faith toward Christ and all that He accomplished trusting in the residing presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We could not flinch during this great tragedy and trial, but stand united and resolved.

We have stayed focused on Abba’s goodness and live with the expectation of a greater reality in our lives. We have received the mandate to establish a place of worship where the ministry that flows from this center will co-labor with the Holy Spirit and release His love to all that will come. We believe that we will see the sick healed, the dead raised, the tormented set free and the lost saved because that is the truth of the Word of God! Our experience with Josiah and the perceived unanswered prayers change nothing, but rather has ignited a fire for more of Abba’s presence than ever before. Many have tried to answer the question “why” for us, but we are not interested. We know what the Word of God teaches and it is time for the captives to be set free. Jesus Christ did not die in vain!

We praise God every day because we are beginning to see the fruit of this truth as we pray for those who are sick and tormented, and they are set free. We believe that Josiah’s life and his death is a revival call to all those who will hear. It is time for the Bride of Christ to arise and be who Abba has created her to be, living in the New Covenant that the blood of Jesus Christ has established and the Holy Spirit has sealed. It is time for revival in the Church and in the world! Now is the time for true worshippers to arise! Upon the death of one little boy, many will find their heart captured by the love of Jesus Christ forever!

There is a peace and truth within the Word of God that when grasped and believed becomes the foundation from which all experience and all of life will flow. The Bible says that we will face trials, tribulations and tragedies in this world, but to be of good cheer, for Jesus has overcome this world! We have learned through Josiah’s accident that life is fragile and should never be taken for granted. Yet in this frailty lies this dormant, expect excitement for Jesus Christ to reveal His glory at anytime. There is a constant joy found in this place of expectancy that begins to heal the wounds of the broken-heart found in our experiences. We can either live our lives in defeat allowing our past to control our present, or we can put our eyes on Jesus Christ and truly believe His Word, His Blood, His Spirit and His Truth!

As children of God and Christians in this world we are continually engaged in spiritual warfare. The Bible is clear that the battles we face are not flesh and blood but they are spiritual in nature. Therefore, the question remains, how do we

Josiah Ministry

live out our lives as Christians in a world that is chaotic, full of death, corruption and darkness? Do we respond in fear and regrets, or do we live by faith expecting the Kingdom of God to invade our lives and heal our land. We, as a family, have decided to embrace the latter. Our family will one day be reunited in glory, but until then there is a dying world before us that needs the love and power of Jesus Christ! It is time for the Church to awaken and truly be Heavens example to a fallen world. There is a greater reality that is expected of Abba’s redeemed and this greater reality was revealed to us through the life example of Jesus Christ.

I guess the question still remains will you live out your Christian life in defeat and agony allowing your circumstances to dictate your faith, or will you live in victory and freedom trusting the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ? Will you choose faith this day?

Josiah, son, we will see you soon. We wait for the day of the great reunion in Heaven, but until then…Abba release your GLORY, release REVIVAL and set the captives free!