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Letters of Truth - Spirit of the Word - Covenant Eschatology - Introductory Note - New Stuff THOUGHTS FROM THE HEART
(a personal letter shared with all)
by Ray PrinzingHow swiftly the years slip by, and according to the time measures of men, we are ending one year and beginning another. It seems to be a fitting time to both reminisce-- recalling the way the Lord has led, and then to look to the future with hope and courage, knowing that He goes before us to direct our steps and bring us into that place for which He has apprehended US. There is also a special "milestone" in my life which has caused a bit of reflection these past few months, as I now turn seventy (12-96 [ed.]). He knows the number of our days, and with confidence we can say with the Psalmist, "But I trusted in You, O Lord: I said, You are my God. My times are in Your hand." (Psalm 31:14-15). It has been well stated, "Faith, in the Biblical sense, is not our holding on to God, but realizing that God is holding on to us. It is not dependent on human effort, but totally dependent upon God's love and faithfulness." More and more we rest in the calm assurance that HE is holding on to us-- therefore victory is secure, all in His hand!
Desiring to share with our children and grandchildren some of the testimony of the happenings of God's grace through the years, I began to write out the record, and as the remembrances unfolded, it came to us that perhaps we ought to share with our many friends scattered across the land. In no way would we exalt ourselves, nor draw attention to ourselves, but we would be of a mind to "give glory to God," for all that He has done. No doubt many will find a point of identification here and there, as the same inworking is a part of their story also. We have titled the little sixty page book, "GOD HAS A MISFIT." And even now I can hear some saying, "That's me!" For we are misfits to this world, but, praise God, fitting in more and more in that relationship we have with Him. We seldom refer to our "humanity side," for we would LIFT UP THE CHRIST, but perhaps this personal record will serve a purpose, too.
Another point of pondering has been our activity in sharing the truths the Lord has quickened to us. After duplicating and sending out over 100,000 cassette tapes over the years, we definitely felt led to end that ministry a couple of years ago. Many tapes are still being circulated, and to God alone be all glory and praise for the help they might bring to some folk.
Next came the matter of the books-- and again we felt impressed to let that means of sharing the Word gradually come to its own proper end, thus we are not having any more books reprinted, but when they run out, that's it.
Now, some will ask, what about Letters Of Truth? As long as the Lord leads we plan to continue this phase of the writing ministry
(NOTE: The Prinzings discontinued writing and mailing last year [ed. 9-03])..
It is a joy and a privilege to be able to share these truths together. It is in this regard that He has quickened to me three words: "He that prophesies speaks unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort." (1 Cor. 14:3). Thus it is our prayer that the messages we share will fit within this context-- to be a positive inspiration, given for edification, exhortation, and comfort.Edification-- the Greek word is "oikodome", literally: to build a dwelling. And the Lexicon gives-- "the act of one who promotes another's growth in Christian wisdom, piety, holiness, happiness." If all that we speak (or write) to others will BUILD THEM UP, encourage holiness and happiness, that is a precious sharing indeed. And Paul urges us, "Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another." (Rom. 14:19). No more contention, no more "put downs," no more personal ego-boosting, self-attention getting, but every thing is said to bless and build another-- that is a challenge indeed.
One of the reasons that God gave to us apostles, prophets, evangelists, and teaching pastors, was "...for the edifying of the body of Christ." (Eph. 4: 12). And in verse 29, Paul adds, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers." Surely this would end all condemnation and negative criticism, etc. God help us to minister grace to our hearers (and our readers), for His grace truly builds us up.
Jesus said, "For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved." (John 3:17). Then later He said to His disciples, "As My Father has sent Me, even so I send you." (John 20:21). Which brings up the question, if we come condemning, who sent us? It was not the Father, for He does not send us to condemn. No wonder Paul gave such emphasis to EDIFYING! Be builder-uppers, not destroyers!
Exhortation-- now we have the Greek word "paraklesis" meaning: a calling alongside, and speaks of one who offers words of appeal, entreaty, solace, words which are instructive and admonitory, words of encouragement and of consolation. Such speech obviously would also be edifying, for it builds up, strengthens, renews, and helps one to get a good grip and press on.
Comfort-- here we have a most interesting Greek word, "paramuthia," which literally means: a tale alongside. It is something said for the purpose of persuading, or, of arousing and stimulating, or, of calming and consoling. We share little stories of happenings, illustrations, experiences, all with the intent of stirring up, soothing, calming the fears and frustrations, so that there is a fresh and positive attitude which strengthens and helps. A little tale is called alongside to comfort and inspire. Some people seem to have a real talent for saying "just the right thing." God's comforters!
Now, blend it all together-- edification, exhortation, and comfort, that is what we desire to take place as we share the Word which the Spirit quickens to us. It is not for a building up of man's kingdom, but for the building up of the body of Christ, that He might be glorified. Yes, betimes there are doctrinal issues that need to be clarified. There is fresh revelation which inspires and challenges us to press on toward the goal. But most of all it is the deep desire of our heart to share that encouraging word that helps people walk through another day, while He perfects His work within. We know it is GOD who works within, both to will and to do of His good pleasure. And we know that in ourselves we are nothing, thus we pray that HE would anoint the Word so that what is shared would be truly uplifting. "A man has joy in making an apt answer, and a word spoken at the right moment, how good it is!" (Prov. 15:23, Amplified).
Next, betimes we are asked Do you ever plan to travel again for meetings? While we much enjoy sharing fellowship with God's called out ones, we have sensed a real restraint these past few years-- so that our going has been very limited. Meetings just for meeting's sake, is pointless. But when we are drawn together by the Lord, there is purpose and blessing. I dare say, the longer we are on the "back side of the desert," the more we feel like Moses, when he said, "O my Lord, I am not eloquent ... (Exodus 4:10). There is such a sense of nothingness-- yet we know that HE made the tongue, and when He anoints there is a Word to be shared, a truth to be declared. So, at His proper timing and direction, we shall follow, as He leads. There is an on-going purging within, so that HIS WILL is all that we desire even in regards to gatherings and travel. Yet, as God once spoke to me, from a poem by Robert Frost-- "But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep."We read, "Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are." (James 5:17) And Paul also stated the same, "We also are men of like passions with you," (Act 14:15). We share in common the pressures and stresses of the day, but we also find that OUR LORD WALKS WITH US through every happening. So our prayer is that together we might hold a steady course in following Him. HE will perfect that which concerns us, and as we pray one for another we know that wherever sin abounds, His grace abounds more. Amen.
We do sincerely THANK YOU for your gracious help throughout the past year, Seems like "thanks" is such a feeble word to express our gratitude, but we praise God for His provision, and thank those who have had a part therein.
And now, having ended our own personal letter, we share some "thoughts from the heart" of our extended family in Christ, may they be a blessing!
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FROM ARIZONA: "We were called out of the church system about five years ago, and as the story goes, our list of friends and acquaintances have steadily diminished, and our closest loved family have also begun to look askance at us. But even so, as Job, we cannot do otherwise now because we have become "Converts of the Glory," and Christ must have preeminence over all. We know of a certainty now that He is our All in all. In Him only can we stand. There is no other man that can stand in His stead for us. HE is the lifter of our head, the Saviour of our soul, and the Head of the body. Our most constant prayer is looking to Him each day for cleansing and strength to overcome our carnal nature, because we look for the prize of the high calling of God. We, too, want to "come up hither," and so we press on in prayer, and the Word, and in all the revelation that comes to us, for it lightens our load and gives us much joy in the Lord."
FROM NEW HAMPSHIRE: "I want to thank you for your faithful letters. They speak so much to me where I am "at" for several years now. I have "sat alone" for so long now, longing for the Light from above to shine on me. The Lord has me so hemmed in by binding circumstances. He gives me just enough, day by day, to keep going. So often your letters are that daily sustenance He gives me. How do you wait, so full of longing and zeal, with empty hands and upward gaze? How else can we come to truly know patience and fortitude and long-suffering? I am so thankful for the insights and confirmations I have received..."
FROM KANSAS: "It seems my prayer is continually, "Father, give me truth." There are so many that are "closed in," literally bound in their doctrines and creeds. Am continually grateful for the more and more freedom I feel. Sometimes one feels all alone - shut away - but then He makes us aware of "Divinity Present," and all is well again. Amazing how the Father works and deals with us. So many "words" floating around. Again, perhaps that is why He draws us aside - that HE might do the speaking."
FROM PENNSYLVANIA: "Greetings in the name of Him who is high and lifted up, and His train fills the temple-- Whose temple we are, hallelujah! It thrills my heart to know that all over the world there are "lively stones" being built into this temple, even though we may come in contact perhaps with only "one of a city." Oh, for the day when the knowledge of the glory of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. I should be overwhelmed just to see 7,000 who haven't bowed the knee to Baal, but to see the whole earth tell of His glory-- that would be breathtakingly magnificent. And it is going to be, hallelujah! The world looks to drugs to escape the pressure of these times, but our escape is in beholding the beauty of the Lord high and lifted up in our very own hearts, praise Him!"
FROM TEXAS: "The writing I just received was such a blessing, it seemed it was as if the Lord was speaking directly to me. Lately I have felt so empty -- it was as if I had been set aside. I would pray and read the Word, but it was just words. But I feel God is emptying me of me, so He can fill me with Himself. I know there are many obstacles ahead, but as He has brought me through this one, He will bring me into Him, and His will for my life."
FROM TEXAS: "I was reading about the Ark of the Covenant, and the symbolic 2,000 years. These things stir the expectation that is in our spirits. Ever since the holy Spirit began to unfold this truth about 3 years ago, it has continued to become more clear, and to come from the Scriptures from all directions, but it could only be shared as the Spirit would allow. As this age comes to a close, and the next age comes into view, there is a great expectation as we wait, and it seems like last minute preparations are going on in us-- like final adjustments inside, or tune-ups getting the inner man ready for the outward change of the body. It seems the Spirit is saying that when our spirit and soul are finished being prepared, then in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, the body can be changed, and we awake in His likeness. When we see Him as He is, we shall be like Him, and of His substance, ready to be manifested, sons of God. We have this hope alive in us now, and we know that it is God that is at work in us, and He will complete the work He has begun .... Waiting with great expectation!"
FROM MICHIGAN: "We humans want to always think that we have finally come to the place of knowing God - we have the final answer. Then suddenly He allows circumstances that touch our very core, and we move on knowing that we really know "nothing." I don't always understand His working, but I hold on to the knowledge that He is working, molding and shaping. I look forward to the day when I awake with His likeness."
FROM OREGON: "The Letter, "He will not fail thee," has strengthened my faith and trust immensely. That truth is finally sinking deep into my spirit. I can see how much I was trusting the institution of the church; now I am trusting Him in all things, in all places, in all people! What a difference, to see with a single eye instead of weighing everything and
everybody in terms of the cursed knowledge of good and evil, and all the limitations of that perspective. I am feeling "lighter," more joyful, more carefree, now that I am sensing that HE is living my life. His yoke is easy, His burden is light."FROM ARKANSAS: "Sometimes it seems as if the Lord has left me - but then I get good articles and realize He is always there, and is working His great plan for my life. The "old things" fall off very slowly, and sometimes with much pain, because we have gotten so used to them that they have wrapped themselves into our being. But a touch from Him, a Word sometimes when least expected, makes me wonder why I walked and caressed darkness, when He is the LIGHT. Step by step, moment by moment we are being made into His image and likeness. God is faithful, and is bringing us up by His ways, into His new creation."
FROM TEXAS: "It seems this is a time of change, the ending of an age and the birthing of a new one. The Spirit seems to be preparing all over. The groans of Romans 8:23 are about ready to turn to shouts of joy. There is a great expectancy in our spirit. - I have only one prayer to pray any more, and it is in harmony with everything my Father wants-- the Son inside cries out, "Thy will be done." - It is no longer I that lives, but Christ. It is like light and life are bottled up inside, and, like Gideon's 300 waiting for the time for this earthen vessel to be broken, and the light to shine forth from the "sons" which the Father has placed in strategic places throughout the earth-- waiting for the shout from the heavenly realm. - All I know for sure is it is about to happen, I just don't know all the details yet. (But we are coming to know HIM). Amen!"
FROM INDIANA: "For some time I have been thinking of knowing God in a new way. I told someone recently that I know God, but I want to know Him in a different way. I know Him as Healer because He healed me when I was dying, and did not know Him at all. I know Him as Saviour, Baptizer, Friend, and Sustainer in sad times. But I am compelled to say there is more to knowing Him. I could just say I want to know Him as GOD. Does that sound reasonable? It is all wonderful, and maybe He is getting us ready to move up higher. His will be done is my constant desire and cry of my heart."
FROM MISSOURI: "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." James 1:17). Interesting and enlightening, when one reads the "sense" and theme of this chapter, and sees that it really means "every gift of God is a perfecting gift." God is interested in making us into His character and nature, to become light, because He is the "Father of lights." Jesus said He was the light of mankind. So if we become what He is, then we become lights, too, right?"
FROM BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA: "If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him." We cannot expect to reign with Him if we have not tasted of His suffering! We must have a taste of being despised and rejected, and I'm sure you dear folks have had a taste of that over the years, as you have withdrawn from Babylon. We have been "rejectedand elected" from them, and how we praise God that it has brought great liberty and we are free to follow the Lord. What a privilege to be one of those "upon whom the ends of the world are come." (1 Cor. 10:11). One translator says, "--- upon whom the fulfillment of the ages has come." New English Bible. Williams says, "---in whose lives the climax of the ages has been reached." Amen!
FROM CALIFORNIA: "The Letters Of Truth are helping me as I see what the Father is doing-- as He is bringing judgment upon America, and mostly upon the carnal nature of mankind. I sense a purging even of myself, the carnal nature that so wants to control and be in control. The Spirit wars against the flesh, and the flesh against the Spirit. I've gone through so many deep trials and testings ... problems that keep me on my knees, crying out to the Father. I'm so thankful I can get strength from the Father when mine is gone. I'm so thankful I can get courage when mine is gone. And He, my Precious Lord, is showing me more and more that He is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent...
He is setting me free."FROM NEW YORK: "How quick the days go by, as Jesus said in Matthew 24:22, "Except those days be shortened, there shall no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened." Praise God, and so all flesh shall be saved. For Christ in us is our hope of glory, and He is having more preeminence in our hearts as the prayers of Jesus are being fulfilled, for oneness with Him and the Father. We are thankful for the processings and purgings that are going on, as we are being delivered from corruption and all unrighteousness. Words cannot fully express the "Deep calling unto deep," by the Spirit unto our spirit and heart... O, the awesomeness of His power and holiness, for only in Christ do we give unto Him the honor and glory, to His Majesty on high."
FROM ALBERTA, CANADA: "We are encouraged to yield to His dealings, indeed, to thank Him for the difficult times that He has arranged for us, knowing that when He has finished we will be made fit to share His glory. And what a glorious day when the river of life shall flow. Truly, a high and holy calling. One feels so humbled when, at least in part, we have the truth, made known. O, how I rejoice in the knowledge that He is indeed Lord, that His purpose to make mankind in His image will surely be fulfilled. So many beautiful verses of Scripture saying it so clearly. It must be that our eyes were blinded until His time to open them. We exalt and worship this awesome and totally glorious God and Father. And yet I must confess that there are times when I fume and fret, forgetting, until He gently reminds me. More and more we are separated unto Him. Indeed, the things of this world are more and more losing their appeal. He alone satisfies, and when our eyes are on Him, the peace and joy are so very wondrous. So thankful that He who began the work will finish it."
FROM SCOTLAND: "---was a confirmation of what the Father has shown me to be reality. We now get the Christian Channel on satellite TV, and hearing all these big name evangelists go on about faith I was beginning to wonder if I was missing something. So refreshing are these writings, in contrast to the rantings of religious Babylon, they are a comfort and strength, and I pass them on to others. For the past few years the voice of His Spirit has become much clearer to us, until we become hungry for that life-giving anointing, i.e. that intimacy of the Song of Solomon. We long for that fulfillment that only He can give. The culmination of the fulness that fills all in all."
FROM INDONESIA: "I would like to thank you for sending the Letters of Truth, they are really spiritual food to my spirit, and HE has made me grow in His knowledge. Day by day He teaches me His ways that I may walk in His righteousness. In my spiritual walk I find out that we can do nothing outside of Him, He is the One and the only One who supports our spiritual life. Glory to Him!"
FROM KENYA, EAST AFRICA: "My heart has been so much blessed for I am reminded that the day breaks to unveil what has been taking place at night. This is so because God often works in darkness, without the knowledge of man, so that He may later bring light for a man to testify the great things emanating from God. - I thank God that the night is withdrawing while the day is appearing. Praise His wonderful name!"
Praise God for every one that thirsts to know God, they shall be filled!