In the Presence of Our Enemies (Updated)
Update:
“Which one of us can truly say, “I am free from sin in my life, for my heart is clean and pure”?
Mark it down: God hates it when you demonstrate a double standard — one for “them” and one for “you.” All children show what they’re really like by how they act. You can discern their character, whether they are pure or perverse. Lovers of God have been given eyes to see and ears to hear from God.” Proverbs 20:9-12 TPT
“So repent [change your inner self — your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God—seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely erased], so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of The LORD [restoring you like a cool wind on a hot day],” Acts 3:19 AMP
As my husband and I were praying today, The LORD kept speaking to me about the stronghold of ‘self-preservation’ that is being demonstrated in the world today, and the unrivaled opportunity and challenge The LORD has presented His Chosen ones, to be awakened and willing to receive fresh insights into truth.
Truth is the only weapon that can set false doctrines in order. It is essential to compare what some are calling truth with The Truth of The Word of God.
The LORD spoke this to me, “Daughter, it is not enough in these perilous times to get a new Revelation, unless you allow Me to also give you the understanding.
Revelation is when I shine My Light into your spirit and reveal something you have not seen before.
I AM revealing and uncovering many truths to dispel every lie but you must receive the understanding of how to conquer the enemy and beat him at his own game.
Many are getting a revelation of the deceptive actions, but are falling into fear filled mindset that has stopped them from receiving the understanding and wisdom of how to respond to the unparalleled trials that are continuous,” says The Only Wise God.
“You are in the presence of your enemies, but I AM your ever present help in time of need. Know that when you receive new revelation in the battle you have been called to conquer,” says The Father, “it is time to tune your ear to hear and yield yourself to follow My Lead.
These are times to take heed to My Voice, for the flesh is warring with the spirit to keep My Called-out Ones snared by the spirit of self-preservation.
The Winds of Change have come, and no longer shall My Army be tossed to and fro by every wind of the doctrines of men,” says The Father.
“I AM opening your eyes to see as I see, and I AM opening your ear to hear and also discern every voice.”
Have you ever noticed that in Christianity, there are symbols used to be a picture of a Truth?
For instance, a dove is often used. A dove can only see the thing on which she focuses her eyes. T his is all she is able to see and not a bit more.
We, too, are given the opportunity spiritually to have eyes like a dove. In the Word in Matthew 6:22, it says, “If the eye is single, the whole body shall be full of light.”
We can develop a single eye like the dove if we keep our eyes on Him. When we focus on Jesus, and He is all we see. We have His eyes.
“Have I not said, ‘My People shall know My Voice and a stranger they will not follow?
It is indeed a time to look at every obstacle, every challenge, and ever unprecedented and unexpected action through My Eyes of Love.
In this time of persecution, I AM indeed equipping My Servants who are My Disciples to deny self for self preservation has to die, so that Christ can live in freedom within you.
The fear of The LORD shall come to The Nations and The Church.
I have not given you a spirit of fear, but Love, Power and a sound mind. Love is your strongest weapon,” says The One Who is LOVE.
“As you die to self, you live to My Glory!”
The LORD spoke, “I AM well-pleased with those who have trusted in Me through these trying times of chaos and I say to you: Arise and shine! I AM endeavoring you to rise above your fears and what you have seen as your limitations and lack.
I AM lifting you up higher, out of the shadows of your past memories of failure for this is your day and your time to embrace your potential and fulfill your purpose.
I AM opening up new door of opportunities in the marketplace for those in business and many new connections for those who are called to minister in a traveling ministry.
Many have been tested and tried and found free of the love of money and they shall represent the new generation of those who are willing to lay their lives down for the sake of The Gospel,” says The LORD God.
Original Word:
Published February 23, 2022.
Image © Derek Prince Ministries
“I call to your attention today.” says The LORD, “that I desire to write upon your heart a truth that must prevail as you travel in this day of great betrayals and infidelities,” says The LORD.
“Many who call you friend today, may turn and deny that they ever knew you. So, know that I will have the last word to those when I say, “You called me LORD, but you never knew Me.” (Matthew 7:21-23)
I saw the motives of your self-serving heart from the very start. So, beloved ones, always be mindful that you are living ‘In My Presence’ and ‘In the Presence of your enemies’ at the same time.
Never forget to cherish that I have given you a double blessing of Presence. I AM in you, and you are in My Presence while you are in the presence of your enemies, you are never alone. Know that nothing trumps the truth of ‘In His Presence is Fullness of Joy.” (Psalm 16:11)
The LORD is saying, “Change is in the air. Change must begin IN YOU before change can take place FOR YOU.
You have been in a time of change from the inside out. I AM working changes of attitude, changes of appetite, changes of connections, and changes of heart all for your good by My Mercy and Grace.
I AM working changes for good and not for evil. I AM working changes in unforgettable ways that are eternal,” says The LORD of Glory.
“My mercy is long-suffering and my grace is all sufficient. I AM moving and rearranging and shaking up the slumbering ones but all shall be given notice of the changes that are imminent,” says the only true God.
“This is moment where there is no time to lose, no room for procrastination regarding unfinished business of the past.
I have given great grace to those who have unfinished assignments due yesterday and I AM continuing to extend mercy every morning so that obedience will take the reins of all hearts to complete those things that are past due,” says The Father.
“Do not take lightly My Favor that is covering you in this hour to move forward. Know that I have already gone before you and paved the way for your breakthroughs to finish that which I called you to do.
For it is true and has often been said that Mercy is not getting what you deserve, while grace is getting what you don’t deserve.
So many have come to a time of total fatigue and dryness in their bones and I say, ‘Prophesy to those dead, dried up bones and stir up your life message that is waiting and ready to be released,” says the Creator of all creation.
“In the Presence of our Enemies” (Psalm 23:5) was only a phrase to me that I just accepted and was thankful for until The LORD began to give deep understanding that many times we are deceived about who our enemies are.
I have gone through many seasons of betrayals and just when I thought I had passed all my ‘tests’, some of the most painful have taken place in my later years much to my dismay.
But I have come to understand that many times The LORD arranges a setting where actually you think you are among friends and He uses such encounters to develop in us “trust The LORD with all your heart and lean not upon your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
And the most important thing He worked in me was the truth that my deep desire for acceptance and love was opening a door for the ‘spirit of rejection’ to have a real time of deception in my life.
It was a difficult learning experience regarding the opinions of men and the competition that is rampant in our world.
What I used to call the ‘only child’ syndrome is really self-centeredness. One of my best friends who taught me much about intercession always said to me,
‘Self will never crucify self because self is always on self’s side’.
Because I was a model and dancer in my early years, performance was all I knew. Those I called my friends were my treasures , because I grew up so lonely as an only child.
So, it was difficult for me to understand when someone betrayed me, or just didn’t value friendship, I took it very personally, so much that I spent many years in training as a Christian counselor hoping to help others who were in need of healing and understanding.
I share this only to say, it is so important to spend time in His Presence and understand He is our life and our life is in HIM even though we are ‘always in the presence of our enemies’.
Yes, He is my ever present help in the presence of my enemies.
Let us draw near with confidence to The Throne of Grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)
You never leave me, LORD, but you celebrate with me when I am being deceived, manipulated or wounded or engaged in any of those emotional tirades designed and created by the enemy.
Not only are you with me, you are in me all the time. Beloved, we just do not know our own hearts but He is always ready to reveal our hearts and bring change.
He takes us through the process of forgiveness all the way to the cross until we abandon our feelings and say, ‘Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.’ (Luke 23:34)
I started out practicing His presence but I NOW DWELL IN HIS PRESENCE. Dwelling in His Presence is all there is.
Knowing those that labor among me is my priority, because I live in the presence of my enemies as well.
Mercy found me when I was broken and bleeding. Grace brought me healing. Love changed my life when I learned what it really is and I will never be the same for He is the lover of my soul.
He has given me songs to sing before I address my enemy. This is the one for today!
“He Walks With Me (In The Garden)”
I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The son of God discloses.
And he walks with me and he talks with me
And he tells me I am his own
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known.
He speaks and the sound of his voice is so sweet
The birds hush their singing
And the melody that he gave to me
Within my heart is ringing.
And he walks with me and he talks with me
And he tells me I am his own
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known.
I’d stay in the garden with him
Though the night around me is falling
But He bids me go through the voice of woe
His voice to me is calling…
© T. Whitson
““Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” Matthew 7:21-23.
“You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11.
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; yy cup runs over.” Psalm 23:5.
“Trust in The LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6.
“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16.
“Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.”” Luke 23:34.
~ Sandi Holman
Sandi Holman was called to the nations as an End-Time Handmaiden in 1984 with Gwen Shaw and served with YWAM Singapore and YWAM Charlotte in missions. Sword of The LORD Ministries came from a divine encounter with The LORD when He came into her prayer room and said, “I have come to put a sword in your hand and was given special instructions on how and when to use it.” She is an author, Prophetic Intercessor and Seer, Chaplain, Teacher, Speaker and Equipper, and Blogger who has also served as a Pastor Online with Beyond the Veil Ministries.
Abba Father taught me about the rejection spirit just a couple weeks ago. It has wrecked my family for generations. Holy Spirit has been helping me know how and when to pray against this and other things.
I was stunned to fully grasp the 50-plus years of rejection and being stolen from by the accuser.
More amazing is how Holy Spirit has been helping me know my authority and the sweet ways God teaches me and inspires me to respond to Him. I love You Elohim!
I am sure everyone here can relate how God places us where we need to be, its great, then the snakes come out from behind the faces of our friends. Very sad when we know how we could club together in these times.
No, they have other plans.
I know it is THEE enemy using others to steer us off our road, into the ditch. They are just being used. But it gets disheartening. And the games are on another level.
Funny how you mention in message about garden. Here, in this very lovely place is a garden that is like a parkland (my landlord is part of the eleet set and thats a whole nuther story…)
I walk in it and talk to Iosa, I have had visions of Him in this garden striding down towards me. The song lyrics and other messages are syncing with gardens. So I guess even though I feel Iosa is on radio silence, and I have knives in my back and ready to let it allll go and slide….He communicates in other ways and through His prophets to reach us all facing these trials.
Saying a prayer for you all that we overcome <3
Thanks for sharing your input and your heart Wildhorse. God surely does, as you say, place us where we need to be and unfortunately we do have a passport to the land of why. But I can chime in a bit on your story and say, it has been my experience, that it always turns things for our good and we are left with a thankful heart for His mercy and grace. And best of all, He is always teaches us His principles of love as He brings understanding to us in all our relationships. Many blessings, Sandi Holman
Dear Sandi,
I started reading your post and curiously I kept reading and reading, and then suddenly, as I came to the song lyrics, my jaw dropped. I could not believe what I was reading! I have listened to this particular singer/songwriter before a few times in my life, but I have never heard of this particular song. The thing that made my jaw drop was that on Jan 24 of this year The LORD gave me an uncannily similar psalm! I titled it “The Garden of Heaven”. I was going to post it soon on HPK but I encountered a trial and have been recuperating ever since. Only today have I start reading posts again. As I read the lyrics you posted, tears started streaming down my cheeks! Who knows how the LORD works? He never ceases to surprise me nor let me know He is with me AND INSIDE ME. Thank you for posting and allowing The LORD to confirm this message to me. I will post my psalm soon as well!
Much love to you!
Gabrielle
Dear Gabrielle, I love how the Lord knows just how to surprise us and how He speaks in such beautiful ways to our heart. Thank you so much for sharing. Prayers to you for healing and refreshing as you arise with healing and new revelations! In His love, Sandi Holman
In my work situation, I have experienced attack and resistance from those who profess Christ and whom I consider my friends.
This has been going on for several years and I have been very patient, committing this situation to My Lord.
This morning I wrote in my diary “Lord I forgive these people for they know not what they do.
Help me break through this barrier set before me Holy Spirit.
Then, a short while later I read the prophecy “In the presence of our enemies” and to my extreme delight God consoled my heart with the exact words of confirmation I was searching for.
Thank you so much for your ministry
Geoff
Hello Geoff, It is always a joy to my heart to know that the Lord brings consolation and confirmation in His own unique ways. Thank you for sharing. May every new day take you deeper in your relationship with our wonderful savior. I appreciate your gratitude. Many blessings, Sandi Holman
This posting has answered a question I have been asking the Lord and myself for a very long time; what is it hiding deep within me, that keeps me from the fullness of my hearts desire of my life hid in Christ? Self preservation. The inborn survival instinct; and I know that unless the Lord makes the exchange with me, it will forever be dictating from within. I feel very quieted and contemplative at this moment. Thank you for sharing this word Sandi. I pray that God continues to bring you revelation and joy as the eyes of your understanding are opened.
Dear Vicki, I am delighted when I read comments like yours. So grateful that the Lord continues to give us revelations of His truth and answer the cry of our hearts as we seek understanding. Thank you so much for your gratitude and blessing for me. Many blessings to you, Sandi Holman
I can’t believe I missed this incredible word. It must have bèen for such a time as this.
I’m in the ashes and I live on the Fiery Burning Alter. In 2015 I turned “inside-out”. Which was about the time the song and the animated cartoon, both titled Inside-out were released.
I worshipped the flesh better than anyone I’ve ever known….it looked good in the eyes of man. I thew it on the Fire of His Love and that’s where I remain today, and it does not look good to man.
One day I was contemplating getting into the shower, all morning I thought about it. At about mid afternoon I received a text from an unknown number which said, and I quote, “Just get in the G.D. shower!!” Only it wasnt G.D.
I still have this on my former phone. You are correct in saying we are in the presence of both our Lord and our enemies.
This year I have on my table beautiful place settings. I’ve never been compelled to do that before. I found the dishes at a thrift store and their absolutely exquisite.
I’m tired today Sandi. I’m tired all the time. I’m persecuted in my home and wherever I go in a way that is so bizarre you’d have to encounter it yourself to believe it.
I train myself to look out into the vast expanse of the Eternal Victory that the Most Beautiful Gift the Father could have ever given has purchased for me. But my heart goes out to those suffering in silence, waiting for the Promises to come to pass.
They will.
God bless you beautiful lady!! :)
Dear Cherish, You are surely coming into a time of deep refreshing. Thanks so much for sharing your ‘shower’ story. He knows just how to get our attention and bring a smile on our face and a joy to our hearts. You express your heart in such a beautiful way, dear one. Love and blessings, Sandi
He has been speaking these scriptures and dealings with me also. He told me Psalm 91;1 is my address, and where it says dwell, means, do not leave. He has been showing deep places of my heart that I did not know, bringing healing and transformation, sharpening me awareness and discernment. So thankful for my heavenly Fathers love and care.
yes Abba father i want to live there.
Psm 91
1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
So be it 黄怡静! God richly bless you! Sandi Holman
I get it all
I walk it all
I daily live in it all
the Ugh part
A New Day of HIS Revealing
The Realness ‘Behind Smiling Faces
The Emptiness/Fakeness of their words
Deceptiveness BackStabbing
The ‘Old saying Still Rings True
Actions ‘Speak Louder than Words
Do They Walk What They Talk
Yes Yes
HE is Revealing those in Our Lives
Who Use and Betray Us
And Cutting many Completely OFF
For HIS Reasons
Our Protection
A True Season of Letting Go
Of the ‘Old
For the Incoming New
Keep Walking in HIS LOVE
Serving the still present enemies
As HE Directs
They, too, WILL One Day be Gone
To N’er Hurt nor Steal from You e’er again
Don’t e’er Give Up
A Newness
A Fullness is Coming to You
Be Encouraged
Chin Up
thank you, Sandi, for your true and
encouraging word
Full of HIM : )
HIS Blessings Upon You
Sandi, this is absolutely ontime I believe for you to post when you did, but the very right minute for me to read it also!!
I loved, “He takes us through the process of forgiveness all the way to the cross until we abandon our feelings and say, ‘Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.’ (Luke 23:34) I started out practicing His presence but I NOW DWELL IN HIS PRESENCE. Dwelling in His Presence is all there is.”
“Footprints in the Sand” is what I am hearing in the Spirit. He has certainly walked with you and even carried you, as Jesus had to do for me also.
Glad and so very privileged to be Warrior Sisters with you. I love your gentle heart and your openness and love you my friend! Gods richest blessings. xoxo
: ))))
Earlier today, I saw “footprints in the sand” in my mind. I smiled as I thought of how He carries us in our turmoils.
And now you post that…How wonderful
..see…He has you, fellow warrior.
He has us.
thank you for your message.
I received prompting or knowledge on several lines, aha-moment.
Thank you for your encouragement .. to understand that the Lord is with us, in us, acting for us, even if we are surrounded by an enemy believed to be a friend .. we always have to pay attention to Him .. not to trust in people, in friends, but only in Him .. then not we are so disappointed in people because He shows the truth at that moment.
I have experienced the same thing as you in many ways. – that’s how your writing resonates a lot.
The lyrics and sound of the song are also very dear to my heart.
Thanks.
: ))))
I’ve always felt like feasting in front of our enemy has to do with God receiving His Glory and us receiving the benefits of our Salvation.
The enemy was the overseer of God’s Glory (host in charge of worship and that’s not just music) before his fall. What an awesome testimony to God (and His Son and Spirit) when fragile clay vessels like us can be used to display it as the Holy Spirit pours it out of us! What trust we’d have to have in God in not abandoning us in our weakness! Just as He raised His Son, we can count on resurrection too when we believe God. As someone who has been betrayed by people I love (haven’t we all been on both sides of that?), I can testify that God is so faithful even when we aren’t. We don’t have to worry about manipulation or sorcery or witchcraft (greater is He Who is in me than he that is in the world). Besides, what a compliment…”have you considered my servant Job?”
Still, I have much compassion for someone walking through that and I’m sorry for all of us who have ever had to experience a big let down from something we (wrongfully) trusted to be solid. Even if we have been warned not to place our trust in man, it can be a very painful path to find Jesus in it. Patience is especially important…like Joseph. He and his accusers were saved by what the enemy meant for harm. God bless each of us as we each find our resolution of God’s goodness out of what the enemy meant for our harm.
Not to imply people are our enemies above. We’ve been told our enemies are not flesh and blood but principalities.
if you could explain a little bit more about both the presence of my enemies and the contrast of it all, I will help me greatly.