Andrea L. Sims PhD: "Unfolding Trials for the Kingdom-Minded"

 

Painting by Andrea L. Sims

Unfolding Trials for the Kingdom-Minded

Andrea L. Sims PhD.

But he knows the way that I take:

when he has tried me,

I shall come forth as gold. 

IYOV (JOB) 23:10 את CEPHER

Introduction

When this topic began to unfold for me, I had notes of all sizes and kinds scattered all over my desk, and my mind was just as scattered, if I’m being honest about it!

I had gathered enough Scripture references to write a book, and I had several plans of attack to choose from . . . and then . . . and then . . . Job 23:10 surfaced in my mess. I have treasured that Scripture for years. You’ve heard me say (over and over) that I open my heart wide to Yah with nothing hidden, nothing secret, nothing held back. I know Yah knows everything. My declaration is one of acknowledging that I know that Yah knows . . . everything about me. And my life has been laid out there for others to see, too, in the books I have written about my life. It’s what Yah is requiring of me. 

My life is not a pretty story, by any means. I’ve been tried and failed. I’ve been tested and flunked the test; I’ve been afflicted and then moaned and groaned about it. Yes, I’ve committed all the wrong responses to being tried. I was wrong in so many ways. But, and the “but” is big: I did not stay wrong! I reconsidered with new understanding (another way of saying, “I repented”). It was when I began to walk on the Ancient Path that Yah began to show me the “why” of testing and trials.

Thus says Yahuah, 

Stand ye in the ways, 

and see, 

ask for the ancient paths, 

where is the good way, and walk therein, 

and ye shall find rest for your souls. 

But they said, We will not walk therein. 

YIRMEYAHU (JEREMIAH) 6:16 את CEPHER

Our fathers before us were the ones who said they would not walk therein. But I said, “Yes, I will walk in it!” I needed rest for my soul. The trials and troubles I had experienced so far had led me to this.

I had to chuckle, too, when I began to think about this topic of “trials.” If I were to ask for “testimonials” of trials you all have been through, I would have a line a mile long and each person would have hours of stories to share. Right? 

But I am not sure we all are aware of what Yah has to say about trials. . . and about us, in them. That’s what I want to get to.  

Thinking Right about Trials

בָּחַן bâchan, baw-khan'; a primitive root; to test (especially metals); generally and figuratively, to investigate:—examine, prove, tempt, try (trial). (from Blueletterbible.org).

We know that everything that Yah does is good. Trials and testing, then, are good, albeit not fun or pleasant. But there is a purpose, and it is vital to know that going forward, knowing the times we are in now. And it’s not like he didn’t warn us ahead of time:

These things I have spoken unto you, 

that in me ye might have peace.

 In the world ye shall have tribulation:

 but be of good cheer; 

I have overcome the world. 

YOCHANON (JOHN) 16:33 את CEPHER

And he is so kind to explain to us his purpose. 

MY son, if you come to serve Yahuah, prepare your soul for temptation. 

Set your heart aright, and constantly endure, and make not haste in time of trouble. Cleave unto him, and depart not away, that you may be increased at your last end. Whatsoever is brought upon you take cheerfully, and be patient when you are changed to a low estate. For gold is tried in the fire, and acceptable men in the furnace of adversity. Believe in him, and he will help you; order your way aright, and trust in him.

Ye that fear Yahuah, wait for his mercy; and go not aside, lest ye fall.

SIRACH (ECCLESIASTICUS) 2:1-7 את CEPHER

Echoes of Job are resounding down through the ages!

THESE are the words of that cepher which Baruk the son of Neriyahu sent to the nine and a half tribes, which were across the river Perath, in which these things were written.

Thus says Baruk the son of Neriyahu to the brethren carried into captivity:

Mercy and peace.

I bear in mind, my brethren, the love of him who created us,

who loved us from of old, and never hated us, but above all educated us.

And truly I know that behold all we the twelve tribes are bound by one bond,

inasmuch as we are born from one father.

Wherefore I have been the more careful to leave you the words of this cepher 

before I die, 

that ye may be comforted regarding the evils which have come upon you, 

and that ye may be grieved also regarding the evil that has befallen your brethren; 

and again, also, 

that ye may justify his judgment which he has decreed against you 

that ye should be carried away captives for what ye have suffered 

is disproportioned to what ye have done 

in order that, 

at the last times, ye may be found worthy of your fathers.

 Therefore, if ye consider that ye have now suffered those things for your good, that ye may not finally be condemned and tormented, 

then ye will receive eternal hope;

 if above all ye destroy from your heart vain error, 

on account of which ye departed hence.  

For if ye so do these things, 

he will continually remember you, 

he who always promised on our behalf 

to those who were more excellent than we,

 that he will never forget or forsake us, 

but with much mercy will gather together again 

those who were dispersed.

BARUK SHENIY (2 BARUK) 78:1-7 את CEPHER

Painting by Andrea L. Sims

Kinds of and Purposes for Trials

Trials have many purposes as seen throughout the Scriptures. 

Tribulations: These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. YOCHANON (JOHN) 16:33 את CEPHER	But they bring with them comfort and peace.
Temptation, trouble, adversity: MY son, if you come to serve Yahuah, prepare your soul for temptation. Set your heart aright, and constantly endure, and make not haste in time of trouble. Cleave unto him, and depart not away, that you may be increased at your last end. Whatsoever is brought upon you take cheerfully, and be patient when you are changed to a low estate. For gold is tried in the fire, and acceptable men in the furnace of adversity. SIRACH (ECCLESIASTICUS) 2:1-5 את CEPHER	These lead to preparation, heart condition awareness, increased patience, and cheerfulness.
Light affliction: For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; QORINTIYM SHENIY (2 CORINTHIANS) 4:17 את CEPHER	These work for us a far more exceeding weight of glory!
Shaken in mind and body: That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by ruach, nor by word, nor by cepher as from us, as that the day of Yahuah is at hand. TASLONIQIYM SHENIY (2 THESSALONIANS) 2:2 את CEPHER	These work for us, too!
Wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes, famines, troubles of all kinds: For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in diverse places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows. MARQUS (MARK) 13:8 את CEPHER And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. MATTITHYAHU (MATTHEW) 24:6 את CEPHER	These let us know the times in which we find ourselves.
Narrow gate, troublesome way, sorrow and travail: Because narrow is the gate, and troublesome is the way, which leads to life, and few there be that find it. MATTITHYAHU (MATTHEW) 7:14 את CEPHER AND when I had made an end of speaking these words, there was sent unto me the angel which had been sent unto me the nights afore: And he said unto me, Up, Ezra, and hear the words that I am come to tell you. And I said, Speak on, my Elohiym. Then said he unto me, The sea is set in a wide place, that it might be deep and great. But put the case the entrance were narrow, and like a river; Who then could go into the sea to look upon it, and to rule it? if he went not through the narrow, how could he come into the broad? There is also another thing; A city is built, and set upon a broad field, and is full of all good things: The entrance thereof is narrow, and is set in a dangerous place to fall, like as if there were a fire on the right hand, and on the left a deep water: And there is but one path between them, even between the fire and the water, so small that there could but one man go there at once. If this city now were given unto a man for an inheritance, if he never shall pass the danger set before it, how shall he receive this inheritance? And I said, It is so, Adonai. Then said he unto me, Even so also is Yashar'el's portion. Because for their sakes I made the world: and when A'dam transgressed my statutes, then was decreed that now is done. Then were the entrances of this world made narrow, full of sorrow and travail: they are but few and evil, full of perils,: and very painful. EZRA REVIY`IY (4 EZRA) 7:1-12 את CEPHER	These trials lead to LIFE!
Sins can weigh us down and iniquities can lift themselves up: And the guide of them who guard my commandments and precepts, says Yahuah Elohiym: let not your sins weigh you down, and let not your iniquities lift up themselves. EZRA REVIY`IY (4 EZRA) 16:74 את CEPHER	These are words of instruction to avoid further troubles.
So much we can learn about trials in this section of Hebrews:  Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: Elohiym having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. IVRIYM (HEBREWS) 11:35-40 את CEPHER	These are all waiting for perfection – along with us!

As we can see from the above, 

Many are the afflictions of the righteous: 

but Yahuah delivers him out of them all.  

TEHILLIYM (PSALMS) 34:19 את CEPHER

What about the “righteous”?

First, let’s define the word!

Righteous just, lawful, righteous

1. just, righteous (in government)
2. just, right (in one's cause)
3. just, righteous (in conduct and character)
4. righteous (as justified and vindicated by God)
5. right, correct, lawful

(from BlueLetterBible.com)

We are reminded of the purpose in pursuing being “Kingdom-Minded”:

'Why have you not considered in your mind this thing that is to come, 

rather than that which is present? 

Then answered I and said, O Yahuah Adonai, 

you have ordained in your Torah, 

that the righteous should inherit these things, 

but that the wicked should perish. 

Nevertheless, the righteous shall suffer strait things, 

and hope for wide: 

[We have such a great promise of hope!]

for they that have done wickedly 

[and we are going to get to that next week!]

have suffered the strait things, 

and yet shall not see the wide.  

EZRA REVIY`IY (4 EZRA) 7:16-18 את CEPHER

For Yahuah has made all things; 

and to the righteous has he given wisdom. 

SIRACH (ECCLESIASTICUS) 43:33 את CEPHER

I don’t need to convince anyone that the righteous need wisdom from above as we walk in this season of chaos and destruction of all kinds.

In talking about wisdom, a little scene plays over in my mind. Back in my early days of believing, I tried to share my new life with those around me but the response I got almost without exception is, “Well, aren’t you ‘little miss perfect’!” 

(I must have been doing the Four Spiritual Laws wrong, or something!) And I didn’t really have an answer for them other than, “No, I’m not perfect!” 

But now my response would be so different: “No, I’m not perfect—I’ve been purchased.” And I’d be crying out in my heart to Yah for wisdom as to what might come next. If questioned on that retort, I would proceed with The Great Price paid by our Messiah. If not questioned, I would leave it for them to ponder if they had a heart to do so. For, you see, I’m longing to be “right with Yah”: Righteous. By his Ruach Chokmah, I long to have the right word, at the right time, with the right heart. He has given righteousness as a gift. We just need his Wisdom to know how to “wear it”!

Becoming aware of trials in our lives; becoming aware of their purposes; becoming aware of how important it is to respond rightly to them: these things are becoming more and more important as we move forward in this season. 

For which cause we faint not; 

but though our outward man perish, 

yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 

For our light affliction, 

which is but for a moment, 

works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 

While we look not at the things which are seen,

 but at the things which are not seen: 

for the things which are seen are temporal; 

but the things which are not seen are eternal.  

QORINTIYM SHENIY (2 CORINTHIANS) 4:16-18 את CEPHER

For the which cause I also suffer these things: 

nevertheless, I am not ashamed: 

for I know whom I have believed, 

and am persuaded 

that he is able 

to guard that which I have committed unto him 

against that day.  

TIMOTHEUS SHENIY (2 TIMOTHY) 1:12 את CEPHER

But he knows the way that I take:

when he has tried me,

I shall come forth as gold. 

IYOV (JOB) 23:10 את CEPHER

Painting by Andrea L. Sims 

All scriptural references from Cepher

https://www.cepher.net/shop.aspx?itemid=2406&prodid=97023&pagetitle=%d7%90%d7%aa-Cepher-Scriptures-Millennium-Edition-2022-

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Andrea L Sims PhD : “Unfolding Time for the Kingdom Mind”

 

Painting by Andrea L. Sims

“Unfolding Time for the Kingdom Mind”

Andrea L. Sims PhD.

Unfolding is such an interesting word.

My work of “unfolding” can be compared to the third trimester of my first pregnancy: I was uncomfortable, yet eager; I wanted to birth this new life, yet I was apprehensive because I hadn’t gone through anything like this before. And I didn’t know quite what to expect as my life changed from what it was, to motherhood. 

These studies on “The Kingdom” are life-changing for me. As I take you with me on this journey of discovery, I hope they become life-changing for you, as well, for I have become so aware that my longing for and interest in “The Kingdom” is really my longing for our King.

I thought of something I saw on social media and kept as an example of so many things, but Kingdom-mindedness is one of them:

“Just heard a story of a group of 80-year-olds who intentionally moved into the same nursing home to plant a church and live life on mission. That’s how you finish strong.”

And what a mission field that is—where the elderly are often forgotten and slip into what’s called “failure to thrive.” It’s a condition of hopelessness and fear of the unknown as death approaches. Those mission-oriented folks, in my opinion, were Kingdom-Minded indeed.

As I pondered how to become “Kingdom-Minded,” I was led to a book I was given as a gift years ago which had some interesting insight into our topic of TIME, and it seems to be so current for the times in which we find ourselves. I referred to this book in one of my previous blogs, too. The book is titled, “Come Away My Beloved” (Frances J. Roberts, 1973, p. 31-32). I have changed some of the KJV language and the sacred names of this short article.

Eternity and Time

Behold, a new day is dawning! Let not the sound of war and discord deafen your ears to my message; for I would speak to you a word of encouragement and would bring you tidings of hope.

I say unto you, my qodeshiym, I have not gone away never to return; but I shall surely come, yes, even at a time when you feel the least expectation and when many shall have become engrossed in the problems of the hour.

Look, I say unto you, my beloved ones, do not become centered in the problems of the world; but look up, for surely your deliverance is near.

My ageless purposes are set in Eternity. Time is as a little wheel set within a big wheel of Eternity. The little wheel turns swiftly and shall one day cease. The big wheel turns not but goes straight forward. Time is your responsibility—Eternity is Mine! You shall move into your place in the big wheel when the little wheel is left behind. See that now you redeem the time, making use of it for the purposes of My eternal Kingdom, thus investing it with something of the quality of the big wheel. As you do this, your days shall not be part of that which turns and dies, but of that which goes straight forward and becomes one with My great universe.

Fill your days with light and love and testimony. Glorify and honor My Name. Praise and delight yourself in Adonai. So shall eternity inhabit your heart, and you shall deliver your soul from the bondages of time.

You shall experience a liberation from the pressures of time and shall in your own heart slow down the little wheel. So that you find a new kind of rest. You shall have a foretaste of the Shabbat rest into which the whole earth shall enter before long. When this time comes, I, Myself, will slow down the little wheel of time and there shall be an adjustment, and it shall be as it was in the beginning.

[I’m continuing to share with you from the book . . .]. 

The pressures of time have increased as sin has increased, and all too often my qodeshiym have been found living more in the little wheel than in the big. This happens whenever the flesh is in ascendancy to the Ruach. Whenever the opposite is true, you have always experienced a fleeting but glorious freedom from the racing little wheel. Is it not true? You have found the Ruach always unhurried, and you have marveled to find how oblivious you had been to the passage of time whenever you have been truly in the Ruach.

You can live here as much as you choose. You can enjoy this rest and disengage yourself from the little wheel as often and as long as you desire. You shall lose nothing and gain much. Try it as a therapy for your physical body. Always it shall most certainly be tremendous source of energy and vitality for your spiritual life!”

[end of reading]

Painting by Andrea L. Sims

So, you may be asking, “What is next in ‘The Kingdom Mind’ series?” The answer to that question can be found in this Scripture in Ecclesiastes 3:

TO everything there is a season, 

and a time to every purpose under the heavens: 

A time to be born, and a time to die; 

a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; 

A time to kill, and a time to heal; 

a time to break down, and a time to build up;  

QOHELETH (ECCLESIASTES) 3:1-3 את CEPHER

And you may also be asking, “Why now?” The answer to that question can be found in our guiding Scripture for “The Kingdom Mind” found in 4 Ezra:

Why have you not considered in your mind this thing that is to come, 

rather than that which is present? 

Then answered I and said, O Yahuah Adonai, you have ordained in your Torah, 

that the righteous should inherit these things, 

but that the wicked should perish.

 

Nevertheless, the righteous shall suffer strait things, 

and hope for wide: 

for they that have done wickedly have suffered the strait things, 

and yet shall not see the wide.  

EZRA REVIY`IY (4 EZRA) 7:16-18 את CEPHER

To become more “Kingdom-Minded” we may need to reconsider our understanding of “that which is present” and “this thing that is to come.” 

The subject of time has been in my mind for a while now. About a year ago, I removed a large clock from my bedroom because I found myself glancing at it on and off through the day as I wandered in and out of there. It seemed to me that I was “checking in” to find out what I should be doing next. I began to feel like a slave to it.

Then about a month ago, out of nowhere, the clock fell off the wall in my office—three times in one day, breaking the third time. I threw it out. It was so strange. I whispered to myself, “Are we out of time?”

To add to the mystery of time (and I do consider it a mystery of sorts) there is this:

That which has been, is now; 

and that which is to be, has already been; 

and Elohiym requires that which is past. 

QOHELETH (ECCLESIASTES) 3:15 את CEPHER

It helps me to keep the “little wheel of the present” in mind as I try to comprehend the eternal. As I said, we may need to reconsider our understanding of TIME. 

And there’s more: How are we to think about our own lives within the framework of time? Let’s see what Yah has to say:

What is man, and whereto serves he? 

what is his good, and what is his evil?

 

The number of a man's days at the most are a hundred years. 

As a drop of water unto the sea, 

and a gravelstone in comparison of the sand; 

so are a thousand years to the days of eternity.

 

Therefore, is Elohiym patient with them, 

and pours forth his mercy upon them. 

He saw and perceived their end to be evil; 

therefore, he multiplied his compassion. 

The mercy of man is toward his neighbor; 

but the mercy of Yahuah is upon all flesh:

 he reproves, and nurtures, 

and teaches and brings again, as a shepherd his flock.  

He has mercy on them that receive discipline, 

and that diligently seek after his judgments.

SIRACH (ECCLESIASTICUS) 18:8-14 את CEPHER 

As I thought upon the magnitude of these words, I couldn’t help but share what so many of us have expressed about “time flying by”! To come upon this word was astounding to me:

THEREFORE, behold! the days come; 

and the times shall hasten more than the former; 

and the seasons shall speed on more than those that are past; 

and the years shall pass more quickly than the present years.  

BARUK SHENIY (2 BARUK) 20:1 את CEPHER

I will finish up with a passage in 2 Baruk 83— we could spend a year in this chapter studying the subject of time:

[note: Recall our guiding Scripture for “The Kingdom Mind”: 

“Why have you not considered in your mind 

this thing that is to come, rather than that which is present?]

2 Baruk 83: 1-22

For El Elyon will assuredly hasten his times, 

and he will assuredly bring on his hours. 

And he will assuredly judge those who are in his world 

and will visit in truth all things by means of all their hidden works. 

And he will assuredly examine the secret thoughts, 

and that which is laid up in the secret chambers of all the members of man. 

And will make them manifest in the presence of all with reproof. 

Let none therefore of these present things

 ascend into your hearts, 

but above all let us be expectant, 

because that which is promised to us shall come. 

And let us not now look unto the delights of the other nations 

in the present 

but let us remember what has been promised to us 

in the end. 

Baruk Sheniy (2 Baruk) 83:1-5 את CEPHER

For the ends of the times and of the seasons 

and whatsoever is with them shall assuredly pass by together. 

The consummation, moreover, of the age 

shall then show the great might of its ruler, 

when all things come to judgment. 

Do ye therefore prepare your hearts for that which before ye believed, 

lest ye come to be in bondage in both worlds, 

so that ye be led away captive here and be tormented there. 

For that which exists now, 

or which has passed away, 

or which is to come, 

in all these things, 

neither is the evil fully evil, nor again the good fully good. 

For all healthiness of this time are turning into diseases.

Baruk Sheniy (2 Baruk) 83:6-10 את CEPHER

And all might of this time is turning into weakness. 

And all the force of this time is turning into impotence. 

And every energy of youth is turning into old age and consummation.

 And every beauty of gracefulness of this time is turning faded and hateful. 

And every proud dominion of the present is turning into humiliation and shame. 

And every praise of the glory of this time is turning into the shame of silence. 

And every vain splendor and insolence of this time is turning into voiceless ruin. 

And every delight and joy of this time is turning to worms and corruption. 

And every clamor of the pride of this time is turning into dust and stillness.  

BARUK SHENIY (2 BARUK) 83:11-16 את CEPHER

And every possession of riches of this time is being turned into the grave alone. 

And all the rapine of passion of this time is turning into involuntary death. 

And every passion of the lusts of this time is turning into a judgment of torment. 

And every artifice and craftiness of this time is turning into a proof of the Truth. 

And every sweetness of unguents [ointment] of this time is turning into 

judgment and condemnation.  

BARUK SHENIY (2 BARUK) 83:17-20 את CEPHER

And every love of lying is turning to contumely through truth. 

Since therefore all these things are done now, 

does anyone think that they will not be avenged; 

but the consummation of all things will come to the Truth. 

BARUK SHENIY (2 BARUK) 83:21-22

These Scriptures are unfolding things that have been hidden away and sealed until now. It seems to be the time of uncovering that which was previously buried. 

But I am reminded of what I have said many times: 

We know nothing yet as we ought.

We look through a glass darkly.

We only know in part.

(See 1 Corinthians 13)

But I sense that we are learning a bit more, seeing a bit more clearly, and have a greater understanding than we have had previously. And I say, HalleluYah for that! Praise Yah for that! I’m rejoicing that “The Kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Adonai, and of his Mashiach; and he shall reign forever and ever.” (See Rev. 11:15b)

Painting by Andrea L Sims

Scripture referenced from Cepher

https://www.cepher.net/shop.aspx?itemid=2406&prodid=97023&pagetitle=%d7%90%d7%aa-Cepher-Scriptures-Millennium-Edition-2022-

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Injustice and the Spirit of Sleep: How They Conspire to Steal Our Gifts. Part 2 of the Spirit of Sleep, Examining the Testament of Re'uven

 

Photo by Leigh 

Injustice and the Spirit of Sleep: How They Conspire to Steal Our Gifts. 

Part 2 of the Spirit (Ruach) of Sleep, Examining the Testament of Re'uven

Leigh Anne Caruthers

Shalom, and welcome to Part 2 of our series on the Spirit of Sleep from the Testament of Re'uven, titled Injustice and the Spirit of Sleep: How They Conspire to Steal Our Gifts. Last week, we discussed the first four spirits (ruachoth) that Re'uven mentioned in his testament: first, the ruach of fornication, second, the ruach of insatiableness, third, the ruach of fighting, and fourth, the ruach of obsequiousness and chicanery. Reu'ven has taught us so much already and given us warnings to consider as we walk in a dark and wicked world. 

It's amazing how much we have in common with the Patriarchs. We worry about our families and share our past mistakes with them, hoping to spare them from the same hardships we've experienced. However, the reality is that they will face their own hardships, and those challenges are necessary. They may repeat our mistakes or make entirely new ones, but these experiences are crucial for all of us. Through these trials, Yahuah refines, molds, chastises, and teaches us. This process continues throughout our entire lives. Praise Yahuah for His love, for He chastens those He loves! The process may be painful, and we may lose as much as we gain, but a promise awaits those who endure.

    And Elohiym shall wipe away all tears from their eyes;

 and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, 

nor crying, neither shall there be anymore pain: 

for the former things are passed away.  

CHIZAYON (REVELATION) 21:4 את CEPHER

We pick back up in Chapter 3 of the Testament of Re'uven:

5) The fifth is the ruach of pride, that one may be boastful and arrogant. 

The sixth is the ruach of lying, in perdition and jealousy to practice 

deceits, and concealments from kindred and friends.

I believe pride is the doorway through which all the other works of the flesh enter in and wreak havoc in our lives. Our minds turn against reason and we are led down a darkened path where there is no end. The only way to the light is through prayer and repentance for those actions. Pride is not reasonable. To think that we do anything of our own strength or "greatness" is just a trick by the adversary to convince us that we can be equal to or better than Yahuah. This reminds me 100% of the rise and fall of Babel. 

And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, 

whose top may reach unto the heavens; and let us make us a name, 

lest we be scattered abroad upon 

the face of the whole earth. 

BERE'SHIYTH (GENESIS) 11:4 את CEPHER

Photo by Leigh

The goal of the world is all about "making a name" for yourself—gaining status, obtaining the best education from the most expensive and prestigious universities, securing a career and position of importance, owning the big house, driving expensive cars, and acquiring all the bells and whistles. Those in high-ranking positions in politics and business are often willing to do anything to reach the top, even if it means climbing over the backs of those who have put in the hard work and time in lower positions. Once a person gets a taste of power, they become hooked like a drug addict. There's no stopping their depravity or what they are willing to do to keep climbing that ladder. Consider the ruachoth (spirits) at play in the minds of those who are living in the fast lane. We remember that sleep is a time that our sub conscience deals with the events of the day, what has been in our thoughts and on our mind. If our mind is full of darkness, what will our sleep be? 

The light of the body is the eye: if therefore your eye be single, 

your whole body shall be full of light. But if your eye be evil, 

your whole body shall be full of darkness. 

If therefore the light that is in you be darkness, how great is that darkness!  MATTITHYAHU (MATTHEW) 6:22-23 את CEPHER 

Re'uven is warning us here about the ruach of pride that one may be boastful and arrogant. With it brings "the ruach of lying, in perdition and jealousy to practice deceits, and concealments from kindred and friends." Pride is considered by some the original sin. Pride was what enticed Eve to take the forbidden fruit from the serpent in the garden, the thought that she could be the same as Yahuah. 

The beginning of pride is when one departs from Elohiym, 

and his heart is turned away from his Maker. For pride is the beginning of sin, 

and he that has it shall pour out abomination: 

and therefore Yahuah brought upon them strange calamities, 

and overthrew them utterly.  

SIRACH (ECCLESIASTICUS) 10:12-13 את CEPHER

Pride begins as a small seed of self-exaltation and grows into boastful arrogance, which ultimately produces the rotten fruit of lying. Interestingly, Re'uven describes the ruach of lying as participating in "perdition and jealousy" through deceit. The Hebrew word for "perdition" is Abaddon (Strong's Concordance H10 & H11), which comes from the Aramaic root word 'abad. Abaddon appears six times in the Hebrew Bible's Masoretic text and can mean "destruction," "place of destruction," or "realm of the dead." With this definition, we understand that lying is akin to participating in destruction and can place us within the realm of the dead. Why the realm of the dead? Because the Father hates it.

Everyone that is proud in heart is an abomination to Yahuah: 

though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished. 

 MISHLEI (PROVERBS) 16:5 את CEPHER

Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty ruach before a fall.  

MISHLEI (PROVERBS) 16:18 את CEPHER

Abaddon and death say, We have heard the fame thereof with our ears.  

IYOV (JOB) 28:22 את CEPHER

Most of these works of the flesh are carried out in secret, hidden from the light of day. I believe the ruach of pride desensitizes us to the consequences of actions like lying and jealousy. With each new ruach of the flesh, it becomes easier to give them space to operate in the innermost dark areas of our lives. Concealed from the light and truth, they draw us further away from Yahuah's protection during our most vulnerable time—our sleep. In slumber, our subconscious is left unguarded and easily manipulated through dreams and suggestions planted by the enemy, who watches us like a hawk, knowing what we desire and what we abhor. He delights in inserting unrealistic scenarios to sow doubt, confusion, and unjustified anger just beneath our consciousness. Like a seed, these negative influences grow and produce rotten fruit. What can we do to overcome this? Put every word and thought under the authority of Yahuah. Die to self daily. Lay down our fleshly responses. Stay in relationship with Yahuah. Walk in obedience and humbleness. Ask Yahuah daily to search our hearts and show us that which should be rooted out. Seek righteousness. Seek ye first the Kingdom of Yahuah. Focus on the Kingdom mindset. Do not conform to the wickedness of the world. 

Better it is to be of a humble ruach with the lowly, 

than to divide the spoil with the proud.  

MISHLEI (PROVERBS) 16:19 את CEPHER

Testament of Re'uven Chapter 3 verse 6-9: 

6) The seventh is the ruach of injustice, with which is thefts and 

acts of rapacity, that a man may fulfill the desire of his heart; 

7) for injustice works together with the other ruachoth by the taking of gifts.

8) And with all these ruach of sleep is joined which is that of error and fantasy. 

9) And so perishes every young man, darkening his mind from the Truth, 

and not understanding the Torah of ELOHIYM, nor obeying

the admonitions of his fathers as befell me also in my youth.

It was quite a realization that within the Ruach of Sleep resided these 7 Ruachoth of error that work against us. Tempting us. Manipulating us through our emotions. One for each day of the week. One against the perfect number of completion with the creation of Yahuah. That is how the enemy works to steal, kill, and destroy. He perverts what is good and Qodesh (holy) and convinces us that "ye surely won't die." Same old play book from the very beginning and he knows the desires of our heart will always be a button to push. If our treasure is in Heaven and our eyes focused on eternity then there is nothing there to be used against us. If we seek the justice and righteousness of Torah with a willing humble heart and desire only the will of Yahuah then there is no seat for injustice. In scripture injustice is the rejection of Yahuah's instructions, statutes, commandments and righteous character, and the unjustified treatment of others. Without the Truth and understanding of Torah we see that we are at risk of a darkened mind easily manipulated and influenced by error and fantasy.

All bribery and injustice shall be blotted out: 

but true dealing shall endure forever. The goods of the unjust shall be 

dried up like a river, and shall vanish with noise, 

like a great thunder in rain.  

SIRACH (ECCLESIASTICUS) 40:12-13 את CEPHER

Re'uven does a great job describing what we are up against while sleeping. During sleep, we are particularly vulnerable to the influence of the spirits of sleep, which can cloud our minds with error and fantasy. In this state, our defenses are lowered, making it easier for deceptive thoughts and misleading images to take root. These spirits work subtly, weaving confusion into our dreams, blurring the line between reality and illusion. As a result, we may wake up disoriented, filled with doubts, or led astray by false impressions planted during the night. This is why guarding our minds sleep is so crucial to staying aligned with truth and Yahuah’s guidance. Armor up before sleep by reading the Word of Yahuah and praying for protection over your mind, thoughts, and any dreams you may have. 

 Rejoice in Yahuah always: and again I say, Rejoice. 

Let your moderation be known unto all men. Yah is at hand. 

Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer 

and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests 

be made known unto Elohiym. And the peace of Elohiym, 

which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts 

and minds through Mashiach Yahusha. Finally, brethren, 

whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, 

whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, 

whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; 

if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  

PHILIPPIYM (PHILIPPIANS) 4:4-8 את CEPHER

Photo by Leigh

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Andrea L. Sims PhD. Part 4 “Unfolding The Kingdom Mind” an Introduction on Morning Manna

Painting by Andrea L. Sims PhD.

Part 4 “Unfolding The Kingdom Mind” 

– an Introduction on Morning Manna

 Andrea L. Sims PhD.

Introduction

This is Part 4 in Unfolding The Kingdom series. We previously considered 

“Unfolding The Kingdom” (Part 1)

“Unfolding The Entrance into The Kingdom” (Part 2) and

“Unfolding The Garments of the Kingdom” (Part 3).

This is just the “introduction” to this topic of The Kingdom Mind because it has developed into a mini-series of its own. You know by now that one thing leads to another with me. I’m “unfolding” and sharing “glimpses” into Yah’s mysteries as I find them and as Yah opens them up just enough to put me in awe! And one of the mysteries that is carried forward into this series is of the “Two’s,” specifically who we are and who they are. I did not set out for it to be addressed again, but it is just “there” in this topic of The Kingdom Mind, for there are two very different “minds” expressed throughout the Scriptures.

You may be asking yourself, “Why this topic”?

Let me share my guiding Scripture:

Why have you not considered in your mind this thing that is to come, 

rather than that which is present? 

Then answered I and said, O Yahuah Adonai, you have ordained in your Torah, 

that the righteous should inherit these things, 

but that the wicked should perish.

 

Nevertheless, the righteous shall suffer strait things, 

and hope for wide: 

for they that have done wickedly have suffered the strait things, 

and yet shall not see the wide.  

EZRA REVIY`IY (4 EZRA) 7:16-18 את CEPHER

Even the reason for this topic “unfolded over time” for me: We all know that death is all around us: some of us have recently had family members die; others are watching our loved ones slowly die; most, if not all of us have wondered from time to time about our own death. I happen to have a close friend who has worked in the hospice arena for over 30 years but does not know what 4 Ezra has to say about “this thing that is to come.” She shared with my sister and me what she calls, “The Conversation,” which is a protocol to help the elderly or terminally ill get their affairs in order: the will, the instructions for emergency personnel during a health crisis, etc. So, my own death and that of my close family members is on my mind. 

This singular “thing” that happens to us all is death. But most of us, unless we have read 4th Ezra, have no idea what happens at death. I wanted to know, and I felt a strong yearning to share this topic with several people in my life.  I will be sharing “Unfolding Death” with you, too, when we get to it in the weeks ahead.

Another question you may be asking is, “What is ‘The Kingdom Mind’?”

We recall that the word for “Kingdom” is mamlakah in Hebrew (mam-law-kaw’) according to Strong’s number H4467 and means dominion, the rule, the reign of the royal or king. 

The “mind” in Hebrew is lebab (lay-bab) from H3824 and explained in broader terms such as the heart, to think themselves, midst, mind, and understanding.

So, simple put, the kingdom mind is a mind that shares the thoughts and intentions of the heart of the King. That’s my understanding of it at this point. 

        But then, I had to ask myself, ‘How can I unfold it?’ Can a glimpse of it be seen in John         chapter 17? 

Painting by Andrea L . Sims PhD.

I had to go back to John, chapters 13-16 to place chapter 17 in its context:

At this most pivotal time in the history of mankind, a conversation was unfolding between the King of Kings and his Talmidiym. John was there and he recorded it for us as the Ruach led him to. I pictured a modern-day family of believers around the dinner table freely and lovingly expressing themselves and in deep and serious conversations, as best they could.

From Chaper 13: They were together—the Twelve and the One. It was 6 days before Pesach; they were in Bethany, eating supper with Martha, Mary (who anointed Messiah’s fee) and with Lazarus (who was raised from the dead). Judas Iscariot was there, also.

Then they all traveled to Jerusalem (The Triumphal Entry, as it’s referred to).

Several days later, they were together again around the supper table. These were the topics of this two-way conversation, which consisted of questions, both among themselves and those addressed to our Messiah (from chapters 12 – 16):

The washing of the Talmidiym’s feet and the meaning

The disagreement between Peter and Messiah

Being made clean

The betrayal 

Love among them

A Place prepared for them 

Questions arose from Thomas and then Philip

The Father was discussed

Greater works

The Commandments

The Ruach

Love for Messiah and the Father

Obedience

More questions – Judas was exposed and left

Peace

The Vine metaphor

Fruit

Abiding in Messiah

The Commandments again

Joy

Love

Laying down of self

His friends

Who chooses whom

Hatred by the world

Offenses to come

The Comfortor

The Ruach Emeth (Truth)

The Father

Side conversations among the Twelve

Time

Sorrow and Joy

Prayer

They said they all understood

Then the scattering

All of this led to Messiah’s prayer, said to be “The Prayer of all Prayers” in John 17. I read it over several times again today but had written the following last May . . . not knowing really what I was doing and why. Now I believe it is my glimpse into what The Kingdom Mind might look like.

My response to John chapter 17:

How precious to our ears is your voice, Mashiach, as you speak to your Abba about us after having spoken to us (see John 13-16). These words echo down through the ages and are treasured by those who have come to know you. 

You lifted up your eyes to Heaven, even as we do now—in our day—knowing our hour is coming, as yours did. 

Yah glorified you and you then have glorified Him, having received power over all flesh to give eternal life to us—and to all that Abba has given you. Thank you, Yahusha, for clearly stating what eternal life is: knowing Yah, the only true Elohiym and knowing you, Mashiach, whom the Father sent to us!

We thank you for glorifying our Abba on the earth and for finishing the work which He gave you to do. May we also glorify our Abba, in your name, and finish the work which you have given us to do. Yah glorified you with Himself with the glory which you had with Him before the world was! What glory!

Mashiach, we thank you for manifesting Abba’s name unto all of us whom He gave to you out of the world. We were His; and then He gave us to you, and we have guarded Abba’s word, too. 

We have come to know that all things whatsoever Abba has given you are of Him. Thank you, Mashiach, for giving us the words which Abba gave you—we receive them! And we know for sure that you came out from Yah, our Abba, and that you were sent to us to do that!

How blessed we are that you, Mashiach, prayed for us, and continue to! And not for the world, but for us—the ones Yah gave you, for we were His to give! All of us who believe and obey are yours, and yours are His, and you are then glorified in us! What an amazing thing!

You, having just washed your qodeshiym’s feet after the Pesach meal, told them of your departure and your return to our Abba. Thank you for asking Yah to guard us by His name, Yahuah Tseva’oth, and by yours, Yahusha Ha’Mashiach—so that we may be Yachad (One), as you are with Him!”

As so many things are with Yah, The Kingdom Mind in many-faceted. Here is how Paul talks about it:

For to be carnally minded is death; 

but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  

ROMAIYM (ROMANS) 8:6 את CEPHER

Let this mind be in you, 

which was also in Mashiach Yahusha:  

PHILIPPIYM (PHILIPPIANS) 2:5 את CEPHER

There are many things to be considered from this introduction to “The Kingdom Mind!” 

And there are more questions to be asked and more glimpses to be had—just not for today.

Painting by Andrea L. Sims PhD. 

All scriptural reference taken from the Cepher Millennium Edition

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Leigh Anne Caruthers Spirit of sleep and the image of death: The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs: The Testament of Re'uven

Photo by Leigh

Testament of the Twelve Patriarchs: Spirit of sleep and the image of death

Leigh Anne Caruthers

Spirit of sleep

Throughout my life, starting as a small child, I have always had vivid dreams. At times, they were more like night terrors. I have experienced several serious traumas that brought me to the edge of death. At age 5, I was brutally mauled by a German Shepherd. (I must add that this poor animal had been abused and was being starved by the owner to make him more aggressive.) Looking back on these events, I firmly believe they were spiritual attacks against the work Yahuah had for me at such a time as this—a failed attempt to silence me. Both the dog attack and, later, being hit by a car while on a motor scooter caused significant damage to my mouth and jaws. My mouth was actually sewn partially shut after the dog attack to heal the large injury to my face.

I believe that serious traumas in our lives change something within us that can bring about the ability to have vivid dreams and even visions. However, I do not think this is the only way and believe any person can have these types of dreams. It is often through our dreams that Yahuah speaks to us and warns us. Unfortunately, sleep is also a prime time for the enemy to reach us as well.

In the previous Blog, Sickness of Sin Re'uven warned us about the 7 ruachoth appointed against man and seven other ruachoth given to him at his creation. 

Photo by Leigh

Image of death

Now we continue in the Testament of Re'uven Chapters 3:1-3 (page 250 in Cepher Bere'shiyth) : 

    

Besides all these there is an eighth ruach of sleep, with which is brought about the trance of nature and the image of death. With these ruachoth are mingled the ruachoth of error. 

Sleep has long been considered a mysterious and powerful state, one that not only restores our bodies but also mirrors deeper, spiritual truths. One of the most profound reflections seen in sleep is its connection to death. When we sleep, our bodies enter a state of stillness (trance like nature) and inactivity, similar to the lifelessness of death. Just as the body lies motionless in sleep, so too does it rest in death. When we sleep, our defenses are naturally lowered. Our conscious mind, which acts as a gatekeeper to our thoughts and beliefs, steps aside, allowing our subconscious to take the lead. This state of vulnerability can make us more susceptible to spiritual influences, both good and bad. While sleep is a time for rest and renewal, it is also a time when the spirit of error can attempt to infiltrate our thoughts through dreams. 

Who is the spirit of error? 

1 John 4:1-6  BELOVED, believe not every ruach, 

but try the ruachoth whether they are of Elohiym: 

because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

  Hereby know ye the Ruach Elohiym: 

Every ruach that confesses that 

Yahusha Ha’Mashiach is come in the flesh is of Elohiym:

And every ruach that confesses not 

that Yahusha Ha’Mashiach

 is come in the flesh is not of Elohiym: 

and this is that ruach of antimashiach, 

whereof ye have heard that it should come; 

and even now already is it in the world.  

Ye are of Elohiym, little children, 

and have overcome them: 

because greater is he that is in you, 

than he that is in the world. 

They are of the world:therefore speak they of the world, 

and the world hears them. We are of Elohiym: 

he that knows Elohiym hears us; 

he that is not of Elohiym hears not us. Hereby know we the 

Ruach Emeth (truth), and the ruach of error.

Photo by Leigh

Ruach that is seated in the nature and senses

Testament of Re'uven Chapters 3:3-4: 

3) First, the ruach of fornication is seated in the nature and in the senses; the second, the ruach of insatiableness, in the belly; 4) the third, the ruach of fighting, in the liver and the gall. The fourth is the ruach of obsequiousness and chicanery, that through officious attention one may be fair in seeming. 

Re'vuen is warning us here. Everything we consume through our eyes and ears is fair game for the adversary to use against us. The ruach of error cannot physically cause us to sin. But he can influence us through our thoughts and yes through our dreams. Dreams are often a download and resorting of images, words, and thoughts from our day or our past. Pornography is a huge tool of the evil one. He hooks children and adults alike through the imagery that is obtainable again right at our fingertips. There is all manner of perversion free and for the taking. Maybe it starts as curiosity to look but before long the hooks are in the flesh and chains fashioned around souls. And as I see it there is pornography for the sensual fleshly desire and then there is food pornography for the insatiableness in the belly. Gluttony. Oh, how history repeats itself. You can read about ancient roman times and find such similarities to our current world. Sure they didn't have TV or internet but they lived grouped together in such a way that a short walk would bring you to either a brothel or a lavish meal where they gorged and purged themselves so they could gorge again. There was a high status attached to being about to afford such meals. I find them disgusting. Often I think about what Yahusha and the Talmidiym ate as they walked to the next place to spread the good news. A hand full of wheat, a drink of water from a well, or fish and bread brought by a child. 

1 Peter 5:6-9  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of Elohiym, 

that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; 

for he cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant; 

because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, 

walks about, seeking את whom he may devour:

 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions 

are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

"The ruach of fighting, in the liver and the gall" marches across this world like a brush fire in the dry season. We are told in Ephesians : 

Ephesians 4:26-27  Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun 

go down upon your wrath:

  Neither give place to the devil.

Holding onto anger can create a barrier between us and Yahuah. In Scripture, we are called to forgive others as Yahuah has forgiven us. When we refuse to let go of anger, we resist Yahuah's command to forgive, which can distance us from His presence and guidance and by doing so gives the enemy a way in. Holding onto anger can block the flow of forgiveness, both in giving and receiving it. Yahuah's forgiveness is conditional upon our willingness to forgive others, and harboring anger can prevent us from fully experiencing His grace.

Matthew 6:14-15  For if ye forgive men their transgressions, 

your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not 

men their transgressions, neither will your Father 

forgive your transgressions.

Anger can be used by the enemy as a tool to ensnare us in spiritual warfare. By holding onto anger, we give the devil a foothold in our lives, allowing him to exploit our emotional state and lead us into further spiritual conflict.

Ephesians 4:30-32  And grieve not the Ruach Ha’Qodesh of Elohiym, 

whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 

Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking,

 be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, 

tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as Elohiym for Mashiach’s 

sake has forgiven you.

Photo by Leigh: Edgar Evins State Park 

"The fourth is the ruach of obsequiousness and chicanery, that through officious attention one may be fair in seeming": 

What is obsequiousness? Obsequiousness refers to excessive or insincere flattery, eagerness to please, or submissive behavior. It often involves someone being overly compliant or deferential to gain favor or advantage from others. This behavior can be deceptive because it gives the appearance of loyalty, kindness, or respect, but it's often motivated by selfish desires or hidden agendas. When someone acts obsequiously, they may be trying to manipulate others by appealing to their ego, making it seem like they are genuinely supportive or admiring when they are actually seeking personal gain.

Chicanery refers to the use of trickery or deception to achieve one's goals. It often involves manipulating or misleading others through dishonest means, such as lies, half-truths, or clever but deceitful arguments. Chicanery can lead people astray by distorting the truth, creating confusion, or convincing them to act against their better judgment. It's a way of disguising lies as truth, making it difficult for others to see the reality of a situation.

By appealing to a person's ego, pride, or desire for praise, an obsequious individual can manipulate emotions to achieve their own ends. This emotional manipulation can cloud judgment, making it difficult for someone to see through the flattery and recognize the underlying deceit.

Chicanery can further manipulate emotions by presenting misleading information in a way that plays on fears, desires, or biases. This can cause people to act impulsively or irrationally, based on manipulated emotions rather than sound reasoning.

Galatians 5:19-26  Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; 

Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, 

variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, 

murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: 

of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, 

that they which do such things shall not inherit the Kingdom of Elohiym.  

But the fruit of the Ruach is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, 

gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: 

against such there is no law put in place.  

And they that are Yahusha Ha’Mashiach’s have crucified the flesh

 with the affections and lusts.  

If we live in the Ruach, let us also walk in the Ruach.

 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, 

envying one another.

In conclusion, the importance of keeping guard over what we watch and listen to cannot be overstated. The content we consume during our waking hours can seep into our subconscious and influence the quality and nature of our dreams. As sleep is a vulnerable time when the enemy can attempt to infiltrate our minds, it's crucial to be vigilant about the media we allow into our lives. By being mindful of what we expose ourselves to, we can protect our minds and spirits, ensuring that our dreams remain a space where Yahuah can speak to us, free from the deceptive influences of the devil. Guarding our hearts and minds is not just a daytime responsibility but a spiritual discipline that extends into the night, safeguarding our rest and keeping us aligned with Yahuah's will even as we sleep.

Join me next week as I continue with the remaining 4 spirits of sleep and the impact they can have on our lives. 

Photo by Leigh: Beech River TN