by Tony Clark
Faithful to God, in secret, where it is unseen, in relationship. Many actions take place in and around our lives but God judges in Spirit and in Truth, the motives of our hearts. Some actions will bear eternal fruit but others will be discounted. We can deceive others when we seemingly do good but God knows our thoughts and sees us by an uncompromising justice and righteousness.
How can we know that our motives are right? Instead of trying to hold it together, fall on the Rock and be broken. If we try to hold it together we are going by our own standards and trusting or relying in our own righteousness. The inner man of the heart. We have been made new, cleansed, set apart, redeemed, our inner most parts made new, a new creation. But we need to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, through the process of death to self, putting to death the deeds of the flesh, the old man, who accuses and opposes the Word of God, fashioned after this world, built on a false foundation, uncertain, unsteady, ungodly. Thank God for new beginnings and new mercy every day! So that we can start over, confess, begin again. Thats God’s faithfulness to us.
When we identify with our flesh we die, when we identify with Jesus Christ we live. He tells us who we are, not our circumstances, the world cannot tell you who you are. This is the constant battle. “Who do You say I am?” We are called to identify with Christ, it is this liberty that destroys the yoke of the devil, the light of His Word, that destroys the works of darkness. Jesus is Holy and when we identify with Him we become like Him, in His likeness, and the darkness of self deception is banished, it flees before His presence. We get caught up and identify with our flesh when we believe the lie, but Christ has the victory, and God help the dark things that lurk in the land that the children of the living God enter to occupy. Because God is not merciful to the enemy. “Kill all of them, men, women, children, animals and burn their belongings. The nations that occupy our land are to be destroyed, because the promise is ours. There are squatters in the land and we can fear them if we let their reputation precede them and unsteady us. There’s a lot of propaganda in the air, but the Lord is with us and they too will fall just like the enemies of yesterday.
“Be strong and of good courage for I will give them into your hand. For I go before you and I will be your rear guard”.
I feel like there is an enemy before us like we have never faced and we have hesitated a little, ’cause it just looks so big! But its really so small, its just casting a big shadow!!! We just need to regather under our leader Jesus and take our land. God’s hand is not weak but His strength is IRRESISTIBLE, this enemy has no chance against Him. So be of good courage and have FAITH.
Wednesday, 24 June 2009
Thursday, 11 June 2009
The Dance of Unconventional Conformity
by Clare Tremeer
The bible tells us not to be conformed to this world, but to be conformed to the One who created us. To have the same mind and characteristics of Christ, who totally conforms and represents the Father (Romans 12:2).
In the struggle to outwork this (for it is a struggle) let us not be distressed or give up, as it often seems like an endless battle with ourselves and the world of defeating the many distractions and silencing the many voices that clamour for our attention.
Let our attention be given back to the One who deserves it, and longs for it. Yield it and come to peace. The place He has for us is where we are hidden in Him. Find our being in Him (not outside of Him so we are unprotected, buffeted, and tossed to and fro).
I hear you say, “How do I find that place?”…By letting go and eating His word and trusting it to guide and direct you into His perfect will. Waiting for and following and being led by His Holy Spirit are the keys.
“Don’t walk the walk but dance the dance…. Come aside with Me” says the Lord. “Let’s do the two step, just ou and me, come into my world of perfect harmony. I am calling you, you can have it all, grab me with both hands. Take the next step with me. Out of the ordinary into the exceptional, you are my glory. Dance it, sing it, breathe it, dance into your dreams. Let’s do the royal two step, together in radically compliant conformity. Let me take the lead...”
The bible tells us not to be conformed to this world, but to be conformed to the One who created us. To have the same mind and characteristics of Christ, who totally conforms and represents the Father (Romans 12:2).
In the struggle to outwork this (for it is a struggle) let us not be distressed or give up, as it often seems like an endless battle with ourselves and the world of defeating the many distractions and silencing the many voices that clamour for our attention.
Let our attention be given back to the One who deserves it, and longs for it. Yield it and come to peace. The place He has for us is where we are hidden in Him. Find our being in Him (not outside of Him so we are unprotected, buffeted, and tossed to and fro).
I hear you say, “How do I find that place?”…By letting go and eating His word and trusting it to guide and direct you into His perfect will. Waiting for and following and being led by His Holy Spirit are the keys.
“Don’t walk the walk but dance the dance…. Come aside with Me” says the Lord. “Let’s do the two step, just ou and me, come into my world of perfect harmony. I am calling you, you can have it all, grab me with both hands. Take the next step with me. Out of the ordinary into the exceptional, you are my glory. Dance it, sing it, breathe it, dance into your dreams. Let’s do the royal two step, together in radically compliant conformity. Let me take the lead...”
Poem: The Encounter With The Middle-Aged Juggling Didgereedoo Man Who Wore A Rainbow Coloured Jester Hat.
by Dave Robinson
The New-Ager said to me, ‘Do what you want man! It’s no-one’s business!’
I said, ‘Right, I’ll continue to only follow Jesus then!’
The New-Ager said, ‘What do you want to go and do that for?’
‘Make your mind up’, I said.
The New-Ager said to me, ‘Do what you want man! It’s no-one’s business!’
I said, ‘Right, I’ll continue to only follow Jesus then!’
The New-Ager said, ‘What do you want to go and do that for?’
‘Make your mind up’, I said.
Constant Tide
by David Robinson
Well, if you insist on having your cake and eating it…..
….. for the record… when you throw up…. I’ll still be here.
Note: See 2 Timothy 2:13
Well, if you insist on having your cake and eating it…..
….. for the record… when you throw up…. I’ll still be here.
Note: See 2 Timothy 2:13
Poem - Loneliness
by Dave Robinson
Last to be picked when choosing teams
Not talked to when walking in
Talked about when walking out
Someone please notice me - but for the right reasons
The one without an ice cream
The one hoping ‘please, let it be soon’
Sitting in a corner
Looking like a mourner
Odd amongst evens
Isolation isn’t a word, it’s a sentence
I love life, but it’s unrequited
My defence has been hate
That whirlpool that makes you go round and round
I wanted to be ashore but I kicked at the key-side
Because no one threw me a rope
Behind the venom, is a lost soul
Dig behind the attitude, and visit me
Note: See Luke 5:31
Last to be picked when choosing teams
Not talked to when walking in
Talked about when walking out
Someone please notice me - but for the right reasons
The one without an ice cream
The one hoping ‘please, let it be soon’
Sitting in a corner
Looking like a mourner
Odd amongst evens
Isolation isn’t a word, it’s a sentence
I love life, but it’s unrequited
My defence has been hate
That whirlpool that makes you go round and round
I wanted to be ashore but I kicked at the key-side
Because no one threw me a rope
Behind the venom, is a lost soul
Dig behind the attitude, and visit me
Note: See Luke 5:31
…because Christ first loved us
by David Robinson
The cup never gives back. In I pour the water, nothing in return!
“Put more in” says the Lord
More goes in, still no ‘thank-you’ for me
“Put more in” said the Lord
‘The cup is not a grateful thing, I get no hint of return, Lord.’
“Then for whom are you pouring? More, Son!!!” said the Lord
Into the ‘tardis’ it goes. It seems to be bottomless. Am I wasting my time?
“Follow me and give what you have” says the Lord
In went the water, suddenly up and over the brim it was.
Now, I could see what had been put in, built up into a surplus.
Spilling over.
“It’s the same with love” said The One Who First Loved Us.
Note: See 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
The cup never gives back. In I pour the water, nothing in return!
“Put more in” says the Lord
More goes in, still no ‘thank-you’ for me
“Put more in” said the Lord
‘The cup is not a grateful thing, I get no hint of return, Lord.’
“Then for whom are you pouring? More, Son!!!” said the Lord
Into the ‘tardis’ it goes. It seems to be bottomless. Am I wasting my time?
“Follow me and give what you have” says the Lord
In went the water, suddenly up and over the brim it was.
Now, I could see what had been put in, built up into a surplus.
Spilling over.
“It’s the same with love” said The One Who First Loved Us.
Note: See 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
Childlike
by Dan Hannaford
Matthew 18:2 - “I’m telling you once and for all - that unless you return to square one and start over like children, you are not even going to get a look at the Kingdom, let alone get in! Whoever becomes simple and elemental again like this child will rank high in God’s Kingdom. What’s more when you receive the childlike on my account, it’s the same as receiving me.”
What is simple? - Pure, focussed, dependant, routine, trusting.
What is NOT simple? - contaminated, distracted, independent, complicated, unbelieving.
Forest Gump was a simple man but he achieved so much because of his simple nature.
WE GOT TO FIGHT TO KEEP OUR FAITH/WALK SIMPLE!
‘Why’d you go and have to make things so complicated?”
Matter of Focus - What are you focused on?
First love will always be simple/focused/childlike.
First love is NOT complicated.
REASON is the ENEMY of the SIMPLE.
Matthew 18:2 - “I’m telling you once and for all - that unless you return to square one and start over like children, you are not even going to get a look at the Kingdom, let alone get in! Whoever becomes simple and elemental again like this child will rank high in God’s Kingdom. What’s more when you receive the childlike on my account, it’s the same as receiving me.”
What is simple? - Pure, focussed, dependant, routine, trusting.
What is NOT simple? - contaminated, distracted, independent, complicated, unbelieving.
Forest Gump was a simple man but he achieved so much because of his simple nature.
WE GOT TO FIGHT TO KEEP OUR FAITH/WALK SIMPLE!
‘Why’d you go and have to make things so complicated?”
Matter of Focus - What are you focused on?
First love will always be simple/focused/childlike.
First love is NOT complicated.
REASON is the ENEMY of the SIMPLE.
Prophetic Defeats Religious Spirit
by Patsy Grubb
I saw a picture of a black skeleton weaving a web. The skeleton was facing a wall and a web (just like a large spider web) was taking form with it anchored to the wall and slowly getting bigger and bigger stretching around the skeleton. I thought at first the skeleton represented a spirit of death, but quickly realised it was a religious spirit.
The purpose of the web was to ensnare newcomers as they came into the church. I watched as young christians who did not have revelation of God’s grace become almost mesmerised by those around them who had an intellectual understanding of God’s word. Their knowledge of the word amazed the newcomers who were so dazzled by these scholars that they fell into the web. Once in the web they struggled physically to get free but their struggle only served to make them more entangled. I realised that the web represented the law, and their frantic struggle was with their sin.
Without a revelation of God’s grace they could not overcome. They were trapped by the law. Without the law, their lawlessness could not exist. Without the law, their rebellion could not exist. But without the revelation of God’s grace and God’s enabling, their struggle was futile and could only lead to death.
I was really disturbed by what I had seen and for almost two days could not get any peace. So I went back and enquired of the Holy Spirit as to what could be done for those trapped. I felt He said, “By the education, impartation, and activation of the prophetic”.
(As for the skeleton being black - maybe this refers to the African church - I do not know!!)
I saw a picture of a black skeleton weaving a web. The skeleton was facing a wall and a web (just like a large spider web) was taking form with it anchored to the wall and slowly getting bigger and bigger stretching around the skeleton. I thought at first the skeleton represented a spirit of death, but quickly realised it was a religious spirit.
The purpose of the web was to ensnare newcomers as they came into the church. I watched as young christians who did not have revelation of God’s grace become almost mesmerised by those around them who had an intellectual understanding of God’s word. Their knowledge of the word amazed the newcomers who were so dazzled by these scholars that they fell into the web. Once in the web they struggled physically to get free but their struggle only served to make them more entangled. I realised that the web represented the law, and their frantic struggle was with their sin.
Without a revelation of God’s grace they could not overcome. They were trapped by the law. Without the law, their lawlessness could not exist. Without the law, their rebellion could not exist. But without the revelation of God’s grace and God’s enabling, their struggle was futile and could only lead to death.
I was really disturbed by what I had seen and for almost two days could not get any peace. So I went back and enquired of the Holy Spirit as to what could be done for those trapped. I felt He said, “By the education, impartation, and activation of the prophetic”.
(As for the skeleton being black - maybe this refers to the African church - I do not know!!)
Poem - My Heart of Gold
by Trish Whelan
I am your rock
Come, face Me today
Come, let me carry you away
Let me be your field
Fall back on the soft peace
Let your eyes gaze up to the unfailing Son
A groan from the depths of your soul do I hear
Oh, My love, speak to me, let me know… I am here
Do you feel that breeze on your skin as you rest?
It’s My spirit flowing over, breath in deeply my caress
My hand is cradled with love around your face
I look at you and all I want to do is protect you in this place
I am your rock, build on Me
I am your love, dwell in Me
I am your shepherd, you are my flock
I am your ever waking need
You are My blood, My brothers, Sisters of the seed
For this is a day on the waters we will walk
For I know and you know the storms are all talk
I want to rock your world
I want to rock your soul
I want to fill you ’till you spill over
You are My heart of Gold
I am your rock
Come, face Me today
Come, let me carry you away
Let me be your field
Fall back on the soft peace
Let your eyes gaze up to the unfailing Son
A groan from the depths of your soul do I hear
Oh, My love, speak to me, let me know… I am here
Do you feel that breeze on your skin as you rest?
It’s My spirit flowing over, breath in deeply my caress
My hand is cradled with love around your face
I look at you and all I want to do is protect you in this place
I am your rock, build on Me
I am your love, dwell in Me
I am your shepherd, you are my flock
I am your ever waking need
You are My blood, My brothers, Sisters of the seed
For this is a day on the waters we will walk
For I know and you know the storms are all talk
I want to rock your world
I want to rock your soul
I want to fill you ’till you spill over
You are My heart of Gold
Poem - Turn to Me!!!
by Trish Whelan
Feb 2008
Turn to Me!!!
Believe that I see you
Love you, and need you
Believe that all My thoughts are
For you and My heart is to free you
Because you exist, I could experience delight
Because you turned your face toward Me
I could experience My heart ignite
When your voice ascends, I float on its fragrance
When your passions are mine
I can make the rains dance
Awaken to me, and I will design for you all your days
They will be filled with immaculate
Satisfaction and angelic praise
I consecrate your temple
So you can shine for me, always
You are one who is called to set others hearts ABLAZE
Love is the treasure in your DAYS
Feb 2008
Turn to Me!!!
Believe that I see you
Love you, and need you
Believe that all My thoughts are
For you and My heart is to free you
Because you exist, I could experience delight
Because you turned your face toward Me
I could experience My heart ignite
When your voice ascends, I float on its fragrance
When your passions are mine
I can make the rains dance
Awaken to me, and I will design for you all your days
They will be filled with immaculate
Satisfaction and angelic praise
I consecrate your temple
So you can shine for me, always
You are one who is called to set others hearts ABLAZE
Love is the treasure in your DAYS
Now it Begins
by Melissa Young
I saw a vast crystal clear lake. So vast that in every direction I could not see the shore. The water so blue almost silver. And although it was so clear, I could not see the bottom. The water was moving only ever so slightly. I could see the sky was a brilliant blue. Pure blue. The bluest sky I have ever seen. There were no clouds. There was no sun, yet everything was so bright and clear.
Then I saw this huge hand come down through the sky and plunge with an open palm powerfully into the water. There was a huge clap as the hand hit the water. There was a ripple that shot out across the sky - it went so quick - I knew it would go forever. The water was violently displaced and again a huge ripple shot out across the water, I knew it would go forever. Under the water huge bubbles escaped through the fingers of the hand - these rose and seemed to explode as they hit the surface - more ripples.
Now the sky and the lake was a moving, almost living, thing - rippling out with purpose and knowing. I heard in my spirit “Now it begins”. As I watched, the sky and the water continued to ripple but the intensity grew instead of fading, ’till the ripples were more like waves that didn’t crash.
I was reminded of the scripture that talks about the angel stirring the waters in the healing pool.
I saw a vast crystal clear lake. So vast that in every direction I could not see the shore. The water so blue almost silver. And although it was so clear, I could not see the bottom. The water was moving only ever so slightly. I could see the sky was a brilliant blue. Pure blue. The bluest sky I have ever seen. There were no clouds. There was no sun, yet everything was so bright and clear.
Then I saw this huge hand come down through the sky and plunge with an open palm powerfully into the water. There was a huge clap as the hand hit the water. There was a ripple that shot out across the sky - it went so quick - I knew it would go forever. The water was violently displaced and again a huge ripple shot out across the water, I knew it would go forever. Under the water huge bubbles escaped through the fingers of the hand - these rose and seemed to explode as they hit the surface - more ripples.
Now the sky and the lake was a moving, almost living, thing - rippling out with purpose and knowing. I heard in my spirit “Now it begins”. As I watched, the sky and the water continued to ripple but the intensity grew instead of fading, ’till the ripples were more like waves that didn’t crash.
I was reminded of the scripture that talks about the angel stirring the waters in the healing pool.
Poem - Beyond Mercy
by Moya Boardman
2007
I am not beyond your mercy
Though sometimes I think I am
I am not beyond your loving
Or the touch of your hand
I am not beyond your reaching
Though you seem so far away
I am not too gone to come back
Any time any day
For you are always here
Whether I feel it or not
Loving arms
Strong around me
Tenderness
I’d almost forgot
Posted in U.K FORERUNNERS - Prophetic Words, Articles & Poems | No Comments »
2007
I am not beyond your mercy
Though sometimes I think I am
I am not beyond your loving
Or the touch of your hand
I am not beyond your reaching
Though you seem so far away
I am not too gone to come back
Any time any day
For you are always here
Whether I feel it or not
Loving arms
Strong around me
Tenderness
I’d almost forgot
Posted in U.K FORERUNNERS - Prophetic Words, Articles & Poems | No Comments »
Poem - Hidden Places
by Moya Boardman
2008
Breathing out & breathing in
My face resting by your chin
More said in these moments of silence
Than a thousand years of words
In my spirit I embrace you
As you draw me ever closer
We steal away to hidden corners where
Unsuspecting they stumble across us
And tiptoe quietly away
For the hidden places belong to us
There time has no meaning
Forever so it’s seeming
Is only a breathe away
2008
Breathing out & breathing in
My face resting by your chin
More said in these moments of silence
Than a thousand years of words
In my spirit I embrace you
As you draw me ever closer
We steal away to hidden corners where
Unsuspecting they stumble across us
And tiptoe quietly away
For the hidden places belong to us
There time has no meaning
Forever so it’s seeming
Is only a breathe away
How’s Things in Your Community?
by Jesse-John Jabore
I was driving and came upon a minor accident scene where tow truck drivers were gathering and from this sensed the Lord begin to reveal to me a comparison or parallel to the church. The theme of concern was that of competition. It is well known that the ‘towies’ have one intention - to ‘get the job’. To this end they are constantly jockeying for position, manoeuvring, and scheming ‘one-upmanship’. Lost amidst this striving is the motorist who would benefit most from a helping hand extended with a calm approach. When the end is put above the means, the needs of the individual are compromised. The ‘end’ here is mammon (money/pay) - So much so that if the person requiring towing had no money they quickly lose interest, even refusing to help. Most of the community have a dislike, even disdain, regarding this approach.
Comparatively, could this be true of sections of the church. At a time where the suffering, smashed up, and broken down of humanity find themselves needing to be brought safely, and with dignity, to their next destination - thrust upon them is an environment where chaos exists instead of order, competition instead of compliments, and ‘bad mouthing’ instead of endorsement. Unlike the tow truck drivers, the church must operate with a passion that springs forth from a pure motivation. Simply, we’re not to lord it over each other. We have but one LORD!
To address this problem in the community, a stronger authority needs to be set up to minimise the strife and lawlessness. Accordingly, for the church in this dispensation of time, true authority needs to be given it’s rightful place ‘being built on the foundations of the apostles and prophets - Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone’ (Eph 2:20). Only as these ministries are quickly identified and rightly elevated can the fulfilment of Jesus’ words be realised, ‘I will build my Church’ (Matt 16:18).
The question begs asking, “How’s things in your community?”
I was driving and came upon a minor accident scene where tow truck drivers were gathering and from this sensed the Lord begin to reveal to me a comparison or parallel to the church. The theme of concern was that of competition. It is well known that the ‘towies’ have one intention - to ‘get the job’. To this end they are constantly jockeying for position, manoeuvring, and scheming ‘one-upmanship’. Lost amidst this striving is the motorist who would benefit most from a helping hand extended with a calm approach. When the end is put above the means, the needs of the individual are compromised. The ‘end’ here is mammon (money/pay) - So much so that if the person requiring towing had no money they quickly lose interest, even refusing to help. Most of the community have a dislike, even disdain, regarding this approach.
Comparatively, could this be true of sections of the church. At a time where the suffering, smashed up, and broken down of humanity find themselves needing to be brought safely, and with dignity, to their next destination - thrust upon them is an environment where chaos exists instead of order, competition instead of compliments, and ‘bad mouthing’ instead of endorsement. Unlike the tow truck drivers, the church must operate with a passion that springs forth from a pure motivation. Simply, we’re not to lord it over each other. We have but one LORD!
To address this problem in the community, a stronger authority needs to be set up to minimise the strife and lawlessness. Accordingly, for the church in this dispensation of time, true authority needs to be given it’s rightful place ‘being built on the foundations of the apostles and prophets - Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone’ (Eph 2:20). Only as these ministries are quickly identified and rightly elevated can the fulfilment of Jesus’ words be realised, ‘I will build my Church’ (Matt 16:18).
The question begs asking, “How’s things in your community?”
Restoration of Family
by Tony Clark
I believe that what God is saying is that He desires families to be saved from devastation, destruction and from the locusts that have eaten away at relationships, and the unity or bond of communion that is the friendship of family. It is His desire to restore what the locust has eaten – this is part of the end time move of God that will bring glory to Him. Part of the Restoration of All things.
This applies not only to natural family but to the family of God also. It’s about unity, and the deep connection and loyalty that will become so strong that the enemy cannot penetrates.
It grieves God’s heart to see the jealousies and competition that rob family of it’s love and support of one another, infighting and distrust leaves the army of God vulnerable to attack and stops them from being a force to be reckoned with, that is one mind and one heart, in agreement; as we know a kingdom divided against itself will fall and unity commands a blessing. It is in the place of unity that God dwells – when 2 or more are gathered in His name He is there in the midst of them.
I believe the decree from Heaven has already been made, that God has declared RESTORATION!
It’s our part to be repentant of the issues in our own hearts where there has been jealousies and contention and strife, so that we can receive the goodness and nature of God, allowing us to be like Him. I believe God is saying that the Holy Spirit is the agent of change, and as we work with the Holy Spirit in repentance and forgiveness that God’s heart will become our heart and we will see this massive restoration of Family.
His heart cries for the loss and despair that robs our hope, but He says “Come, I will make a way, I am the God of the breakthrough, I am your Healer.” He says “Just as I suffered the loss and devastation of my Son and then the restoration, so I will do for you – full Restoration”
I believe that what God is saying is that He desires families to be saved from devastation, destruction and from the locusts that have eaten away at relationships, and the unity or bond of communion that is the friendship of family. It is His desire to restore what the locust has eaten – this is part of the end time move of God that will bring glory to Him. Part of the Restoration of All things.
This applies not only to natural family but to the family of God also. It’s about unity, and the deep connection and loyalty that will become so strong that the enemy cannot penetrates.
It grieves God’s heart to see the jealousies and competition that rob family of it’s love and support of one another, infighting and distrust leaves the army of God vulnerable to attack and stops them from being a force to be reckoned with, that is one mind and one heart, in agreement; as we know a kingdom divided against itself will fall and unity commands a blessing. It is in the place of unity that God dwells – when 2 or more are gathered in His name He is there in the midst of them.
I believe the decree from Heaven has already been made, that God has declared RESTORATION!
It’s our part to be repentant of the issues in our own hearts where there has been jealousies and contention and strife, so that we can receive the goodness and nature of God, allowing us to be like Him. I believe God is saying that the Holy Spirit is the agent of change, and as we work with the Holy Spirit in repentance and forgiveness that God’s heart will become our heart and we will see this massive restoration of Family.
His heart cries for the loss and despair that robs our hope, but He says “Come, I will make a way, I am the God of the breakthrough, I am your Healer.” He says “Just as I suffered the loss and devastation of my Son and then the restoration, so I will do for you – full Restoration”
Wednesday, 10 June 2009
Poem - Time
by Belinda Jabore
Time is so short
Time goes so fast
Time is hard to catch
Time’s waiting on Him
Essential for us to keep living
Time to see me,
see Me
see Me
Time quick as a candle blown out
Time with Him
Time with me
Time essential for you and me
Time Calls
Time demands me
Time calls me to Be
Who I am
And have always been
Called to Be
By the Trinity.
Ecclesiastes: 12: 13-14
"Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:
Fear God and keep His commandments,
For this is man’s all.
For God will bring every work into judgment,
Including every secret thing,
Whether good or evil."
Time is so short
Time goes so fast
Time is hard to catch
Time’s waiting on Him
Essential for us to keep living
Time to see me,
see Me
see Me
Time quick as a candle blown out
Time with Him
Time with me
Time essential for you and me
Time Calls
Time demands me
Time calls me to Be
Who I am
And have always been
Called to Be
By the Trinity.
Ecclesiastes: 12: 13-14
"Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:
Fear God and keep His commandments,
For this is man’s all.
For God will bring every work into judgment,
Including every secret thing,
Whether good or evil."
Rock Climbing - Pt.3
by Belinda Jabore
Well here we are again Rock Climbing. I’d been seeking a word from the Lord and asking lots of questions about rock climbing (refer part 1 and 2), this ‘on the back’ of a prophetic word Tim Cassidy brought at the 2008 Forerunners International Conference. The Lord said we were at the base of the ‘mountain of the Lord’ and we would have refreshing and rest. The Lord kept on bringing that word back to me which brought me to this place of seeking the Lord about what happens at the base of the mountain - and He revealed we will eventually have to climb this mountain. I then asked the Lord “how do we prepare ourselves?”
The word prepare being a doing word has to do with how we position ourselves to give us the best possible chance to succeed. Hence, my journey to find out more about rock climbing and the prophetic analogies we can apply to our daily walk (and climb) with the Lord. No matter what level we are at, it will draw us into a deeper relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit as we become more disciplined (disciple- aligned) sons and daughters to propel us into kingdom plans and thinking.
Revelation: 14:12 - "Here (comes in a call for) the steadfastness of the saints (the patience, the endurance of the people of God), those who (habitually) keep Gods commandments and (their) faith in Jesus."
After finding out information on rock climbing, which really got me hooked, the Lord directed me to climb Mt Warning on the Northern NSW coast. So, after some preparation and contemplating, I am glad to say that my husband and I finally completed the climb to Mount Warning. What a prophetic statement in itself, two prophets climbing Mount Warning together. Well let me tell you I was so excited about it. Finally, I was going to the mountain of the Lord to see what He would say.
WOW ! How exciting.
Psalm 24:3-4 - "Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His Holy Place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted himself up to falsehood or to what is false , nor sworn deceitfully."
I believe this is what is taking place (or about to take place). It is not for the faint hearted, but for those who are determined to follow the Lord Jesus’ plan and purpose for their life. It is time to be ruthless with sin in our lives, making sure we are getting rid of every thing that would ensnare and encumber us. This includes the ‘idols in our hearts’ and being accountable to our God Given Leaders.
Can we just turn our gaze to Psalm 24 v 3 - ‘ Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord. This clearly states we must GO UP INTO Him and what He has for us. I sense He has something new for us – keeping in mind we are to allow the Holy Spirit to further ‘cleanse our hands and purify our hearts’.
Some of the things we learnt as we climbed Mt Warning.
>We needed to be well RESTED prior to the climb
>We needed to be physically and mentally fitter
>We needed to be fully focused on what we were doing
>We needed to be prepared and ready
>We had to be ready for any surprise attacks. (We encountered 2 snakes along the way)
>We had to have lots of water and fruit as we climbed
>We had to have Rests (stops) along the way
>We needed to keep good time. (2 hours up and 80mins down).
>We were vulnerable at times due to the physical stress on our body.
>As we climbed on 3 or 4 occasions (out of nowhere) an opening appeared presenting a spectacular view- a glimpse of what awaited us at the summit (an incentive to purpose on).
> The final assent presented the greatest challenge (approx. 200metres almost vertical) - though the great effort needed, was no match for the breathtaking and exhilarating feeling that we experienced upon reaching the top.
Philippians 3:12-14 - ‘Not that I have now attained (this ideal), or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own. I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own (yet); but one thing I do (it is my one aspiration); forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.I press on toward the goal to win the (supreme and heavenly) prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.
Onwards and Upwards – To eternity and beyond!
Well here we are again Rock Climbing. I’d been seeking a word from the Lord and asking lots of questions about rock climbing (refer part 1 and 2), this ‘on the back’ of a prophetic word Tim Cassidy brought at the 2008 Forerunners International Conference. The Lord said we were at the base of the ‘mountain of the Lord’ and we would have refreshing and rest. The Lord kept on bringing that word back to me which brought me to this place of seeking the Lord about what happens at the base of the mountain - and He revealed we will eventually have to climb this mountain. I then asked the Lord “how do we prepare ourselves?”
The word prepare being a doing word has to do with how we position ourselves to give us the best possible chance to succeed. Hence, my journey to find out more about rock climbing and the prophetic analogies we can apply to our daily walk (and climb) with the Lord. No matter what level we are at, it will draw us into a deeper relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit as we become more disciplined (disciple- aligned) sons and daughters to propel us into kingdom plans and thinking.
Revelation: 14:12 - "Here (comes in a call for) the steadfastness of the saints (the patience, the endurance of the people of God), those who (habitually) keep Gods commandments and (their) faith in Jesus."
After finding out information on rock climbing, which really got me hooked, the Lord directed me to climb Mt Warning on the Northern NSW coast. So, after some preparation and contemplating, I am glad to say that my husband and I finally completed the climb to Mount Warning. What a prophetic statement in itself, two prophets climbing Mount Warning together. Well let me tell you I was so excited about it. Finally, I was going to the mountain of the Lord to see what He would say.
WOW ! How exciting.
Psalm 24:3-4 - "Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His Holy Place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted himself up to falsehood or to what is false , nor sworn deceitfully."
I believe this is what is taking place (or about to take place). It is not for the faint hearted, but for those who are determined to follow the Lord Jesus’ plan and purpose for their life. It is time to be ruthless with sin in our lives, making sure we are getting rid of every thing that would ensnare and encumber us. This includes the ‘idols in our hearts’ and being accountable to our God Given Leaders.
Can we just turn our gaze to Psalm 24 v 3 - ‘ Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord. This clearly states we must GO UP INTO Him and what He has for us. I sense He has something new for us – keeping in mind we are to allow the Holy Spirit to further ‘cleanse our hands and purify our hearts’.
Some of the things we learnt as we climbed Mt Warning.
>We needed to be well RESTED prior to the climb
>We needed to be physically and mentally fitter
>We needed to be fully focused on what we were doing
>We needed to be prepared and ready
>We had to be ready for any surprise attacks. (We encountered 2 snakes along the way)
>We had to have lots of water and fruit as we climbed
>We had to have Rests (stops) along the way
>We needed to keep good time. (2 hours up and 80mins down).
>We were vulnerable at times due to the physical stress on our body.
>As we climbed on 3 or 4 occasions (out of nowhere) an opening appeared presenting a spectacular view- a glimpse of what awaited us at the summit (an incentive to purpose on).
> The final assent presented the greatest challenge (approx. 200metres almost vertical) - though the great effort needed, was no match for the breathtaking and exhilarating feeling that we experienced upon reaching the top.
Philippians 3:12-14 - ‘Not that I have now attained (this ideal), or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own. I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own (yet); but one thing I do (it is my one aspiration); forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.I press on toward the goal to win the (supreme and heavenly) prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.
Onwards and Upwards – To eternity and beyond!
Rock Climbing - Pt.2
Prophetic Article
by Belinda Jabore
As I was asking the Lord on more info on what else do we need to do in preparation for climbing a mountain, this is what I found and sensed that the Lord was directing us to prophetically take a look at, especially concerning our physical fitness. The Lord has been really on my case about being strengthened physically. He has been asking me to get fit for the last 2 years now. As I have been seeking the Lord regarding mountains and specifically, what happens at the base of the mountain of the Lord — what are we ‘in for’ and what do we need to prepare for or expect? We are in boot camp so what do we need to do - to prepare our hearts and body’s. I now find myself looking at and wanting to climb mountains. Especially now I have done some research on what’s required. The Lord has said to me to go and climb Mt Warning down in Northern New South Wales - I haven’t gone yet, but I intend to soon. My husband and I are trying to get a time when we can both go together and when we both feel like we can tackle it physically and mentally.
Even though I would like to go alone, it is not wise to climb a mountain on your own. There are many reasons for this as you could well imagine and safety is of the utmost importance. I believe in the year ahead many of us are going to be stretched beyond our limits. It will propel us further into the plans and purposes of God and at the ‘year end’ we will be so glad we did. There will be lots of training and getting fit spiritually, physically and mentally. We are all at different levels, but doing the same climb - resting and looking at the base of the mountain of the Lord. Contemplating how we can tackle this and putting as much into the preparation that we can! As you read this article there is a preparation taking place, in which I have found there are three stand outs:
1. Resting in Him (spiritual)
2. Waiting on Him (spiritual)
3. Getting fit (mental and physical)
There are a lot of different strategies we can apply to our daily life that will maximise our strength in different areas of our life. It will be uncomfortable for us though and not what we are used to. As we stretch ourselves, (even though it will be painful at times) the out come will show our potential. If circumstances in our life are easy we learn very little, but if we are pushed to the max - enduring pain and generally out of our ‘comfort zone’, much ‘fruit’ results. Some of us have been driven to the mountain of the Lord by devils, others by their dreams, but most of us have been lead to this place to serve the Lord with all our heart, mind and soul - to follow The ‘call’ that has been with us before all time, and definitely since we took our first breath on this earth. One thing we all share is that we will become “stronger” together, as we climb, leaving our failures and past behind us. Climbing tests our character and faithfulness. Whether you are climbing or waiting to climb the mountain of the Lord, there is lots to learn in boot camp and much required in the preparation. Be sure of this there will be great victories, moments of exhilarating power in God, but also many hardships producing some expected (and some unexpected) challenges that will test our endurance, self discipline, and ultimately our FAITH.Some of us though, don’t count the cost of a climb and think ‘it’s too hard’ and give up, but if things are handed to us or to easy for us - we will not value them. I have found out in my research that if someone is struggling within the climb, the team rally around them helping and strengthening them. A real trust must develop with your fellow climbers - for you need to really know the ones you are climbing with will watch your back and effectively ‘take the strain’.
Here is a list on what is important before climbing and preparing to climb.
1. Gather information before you climb.
2. There is a preparation mentally before you climb.
In the articles I was reading I found this in many different comments relating to different climbs.” Preparing your mind for a climb is an important technique to master. They say that you need to remove the mental distractions so you can focus on the Rock before you. This is a two fold thing- mentally preparing before you climb and secondly mentally preparing before climbing a specific route.
3. Physical fitness: Strength, and Warming up.When you rock climb it is important to take time to warm up to avoid injury.
There will be times when you will have to walk a bit to reach a cliff; this is a great start to warming up. Next you will want to spend some time stretching. Be sure to stretch the muscles you will be using, such as fingers shoulders and legs. For your legs you may want to step high and move them in some different directions. Since climbing uses the core of your body, you will want to bend and twist to make sure your middle is loosened up. Taking time to warm up and stretch will maximise your day on the rock. Doing some sort of physical activity will be good such as walking, running, and gym work outs, whatever suits your body type to get fitter.
Romans 8:18-19 - "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. "
The Mountain of the Lord - Be aware at the bottom of the mountain of the Lord, if you choose to climb, or if you are preparing to, the Lord will stretch you in ways you never thought possible.
Again there are lots of different prophetic analogies concerning this article. It does not matter what level you are on - it applies to where you’re at. You might be in the music, in the kitchen, the cleaner, a prophet prophesying, a pastor, a teacher, evangelist, a leader - whatever it is, we have a mountain to climb together.
Happy climbing, (be brave)
by Belinda Jabore
As I was asking the Lord on more info on what else do we need to do in preparation for climbing a mountain, this is what I found and sensed that the Lord was directing us to prophetically take a look at, especially concerning our physical fitness. The Lord has been really on my case about being strengthened physically. He has been asking me to get fit for the last 2 years now. As I have been seeking the Lord regarding mountains and specifically, what happens at the base of the mountain of the Lord — what are we ‘in for’ and what do we need to prepare for or expect? We are in boot camp so what do we need to do - to prepare our hearts and body’s. I now find myself looking at and wanting to climb mountains. Especially now I have done some research on what’s required. The Lord has said to me to go and climb Mt Warning down in Northern New South Wales - I haven’t gone yet, but I intend to soon. My husband and I are trying to get a time when we can both go together and when we both feel like we can tackle it physically and mentally.
Even though I would like to go alone, it is not wise to climb a mountain on your own. There are many reasons for this as you could well imagine and safety is of the utmost importance. I believe in the year ahead many of us are going to be stretched beyond our limits. It will propel us further into the plans and purposes of God and at the ‘year end’ we will be so glad we did. There will be lots of training and getting fit spiritually, physically and mentally. We are all at different levels, but doing the same climb - resting and looking at the base of the mountain of the Lord. Contemplating how we can tackle this and putting as much into the preparation that we can! As you read this article there is a preparation taking place, in which I have found there are three stand outs:
1. Resting in Him (spiritual)
2. Waiting on Him (spiritual)
3. Getting fit (mental and physical)
There are a lot of different strategies we can apply to our daily life that will maximise our strength in different areas of our life. It will be uncomfortable for us though and not what we are used to. As we stretch ourselves, (even though it will be painful at times) the out come will show our potential. If circumstances in our life are easy we learn very little, but if we are pushed to the max - enduring pain and generally out of our ‘comfort zone’, much ‘fruit’ results. Some of us have been driven to the mountain of the Lord by devils, others by their dreams, but most of us have been lead to this place to serve the Lord with all our heart, mind and soul - to follow The ‘call’ that has been with us before all time, and definitely since we took our first breath on this earth. One thing we all share is that we will become “stronger” together, as we climb, leaving our failures and past behind us. Climbing tests our character and faithfulness. Whether you are climbing or waiting to climb the mountain of the Lord, there is lots to learn in boot camp and much required in the preparation. Be sure of this there will be great victories, moments of exhilarating power in God, but also many hardships producing some expected (and some unexpected) challenges that will test our endurance, self discipline, and ultimately our FAITH.Some of us though, don’t count the cost of a climb and think ‘it’s too hard’ and give up, but if things are handed to us or to easy for us - we will not value them. I have found out in my research that if someone is struggling within the climb, the team rally around them helping and strengthening them. A real trust must develop with your fellow climbers - for you need to really know the ones you are climbing with will watch your back and effectively ‘take the strain’.
Here is a list on what is important before climbing and preparing to climb.
1. Gather information before you climb.
2. There is a preparation mentally before you climb.
In the articles I was reading I found this in many different comments relating to different climbs.” Preparing your mind for a climb is an important technique to master. They say that you need to remove the mental distractions so you can focus on the Rock before you. This is a two fold thing- mentally preparing before you climb and secondly mentally preparing before climbing a specific route.
3. Physical fitness: Strength, and Warming up.When you rock climb it is important to take time to warm up to avoid injury.
There will be times when you will have to walk a bit to reach a cliff; this is a great start to warming up. Next you will want to spend some time stretching. Be sure to stretch the muscles you will be using, such as fingers shoulders and legs. For your legs you may want to step high and move them in some different directions. Since climbing uses the core of your body, you will want to bend and twist to make sure your middle is loosened up. Taking time to warm up and stretch will maximise your day on the rock. Doing some sort of physical activity will be good such as walking, running, and gym work outs, whatever suits your body type to get fitter.
Romans 8:18-19 - "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. "
The Mountain of the Lord - Be aware at the bottom of the mountain of the Lord, if you choose to climb, or if you are preparing to, the Lord will stretch you in ways you never thought possible.
Again there are lots of different prophetic analogies concerning this article. It does not matter what level you are on - it applies to where you’re at. You might be in the music, in the kitchen, the cleaner, a prophet prophesying, a pastor, a teacher, evangelist, a leader - whatever it is, we have a mountain to climb together.
Happy climbing, (be brave)
Rock Climbing - Pt.1
by Belinda Jabore
This was an article that the Lord showed me to take a look at for the year ahead, and I feel this year prophetically for each of us this has a significant meaning as to how and where the Lord wants us. I found it quite sobering and funny. As you read this there are many different analogies for all of us, it’s typical too how the Lord speaks to us no matter what level we are at. And I am finding out that what ever I thought I knew or have learnt seems to get wiped or stripped away. .It’s like starting on a new white board to start to learn on many different levels once again. It’s like the things I learnt from the year before get downloaded in a file in my head but I am aware that I can’t do things the same as I always have. As I am finding that to have new things from the Lord you have to have a clean board (no clutter or distractions) for Him to write on. And the things I have learnt from the Lord are sitting in the file. As I need them and when the Holy Spirit directs to use them then I can use them.
The Lord emphasised to me the prophetic word Tim Cassidy brought at the 2008 conference at Forerunners International. Tim was saying that we were at the base camp of the mountain of the Lord and we were to rest there and there would be refreshing for the task ahead. So I was thinking and asking the Lord what was next? If we are going to be at the base camp of the mountain of the Lord then we will have to climb that mountain sooner or later. And the Lord directed me to a rock climbing site and this is what I found from an article of a guy (very prophetic) what he said about starting out in rock climbing a site on the internet.
The rest of this word is pretty self explanatory. (It will probably make you laugh and cry) and I believe it is what we have to look at for the year ahead………
The first time one looks at a picture of a rock climber or goes to the local gym the item that stands out the most is the shoes. Sure we expect the harness and the helmet, the other two essential items in this article, but why are there special shoes? The answer, so I’ve learned is a combination of both power and stickiness! I will tell you what you basically look for in a shoe and then explain why which will also reveal how power and stickiness come into play.
THE SHOES - Ephesians 6: 15
As a beginner the one thing you need to realise is that your shoes are going to get trashed. You’re going to beat them up because you haven’t quite learned about the special soles and you are using them a lot without much technique….i.e. you’re falling and slipping all the time. Significantly which shoes you pick is important.
Here are some of the things to remember when buying shoes:
1. Price does matter- You’re first pair you trash and they wear out quickly as you (go cheap) haven’t got you’re technique right yet.
2. All day comfort- the more you progress and the more technical climbs you do, you will need more technical shoes, which will cost more money and be less comfortable, (until you get use to them) But right now, while you’re feet are learning technique and getting use to the shoes, all you care about is a shoe that provides all day comfort.
3. Shoe size- when you first try on a shoe start half a size smaller than your current shoes size. You’re feet should be nice and snug inside with no moving room. Your toes should be pushed together side ways, all your little toes pointing to your bigger toes, but they should not be curled up. They need to lay flat like they normally do …..(you’re toes that is). But by redirecting your toes into a sharper point the power from them is transferred much smoother and you are able to hold onto smaller bumps and ledges with you’re feet.
He goes onto say do not get one with an arch in the shoe straight away. As you have a natural arch in your foot and arched shoes over exaggerate your natural arch and are used for fine and power work….basically technical climbing. If when you try on these shoes, they meet the criteria and feel comfortable then go down half a size. If that feels comfortable then keep going down half sizes until you reach an uncomfortable level. Once you reach that level go up to the previous level where your shoes feel good. The analogy of this is to fit into a smaller shoe, as small as you can.
4. Synthetic vs leather- The only significant difference is that leather will stretch a little around your feet while synthetic will not. It’s up to you, but would be better if it stretches a little bit.
5. Velcro vs Tie- I bought shoes that you tie. As a beginner I do not recommend these and here’s why. When you are getting use to your shoes after climbing a route or two, you’re going to want to take them off to give your feet a chance to relax.( sounds like a lot of hard work to me) It’s about 100 times harder to do if you have shoes that you tie. Velcro is much quicker to relieve pain. When you progress and you climb longer and want to be able to snug up your shoes a little better then go tie.
6. Look Weird- When you try on your shoes they may feel fine when you stand up. But remember you are not going to be standing up when you are climbing, so put your shoes to the test. Hold onto a wall- stand on your tippy toes. How do they feel? Stand on the side of one foot. How does that feel? Remember that when you are climbing you will use the tips of your toes a lot and you usually don’t have much to hang onto, (except Jesus).
7. Breaking In- After you have finally brought your first pair of shoes, the first thing you will want to do is to wear them around the house, so your feet start getting use to them. I could only wear mine for 10 mins before the sides of my feet started to hurt. Rock climbing shoes have sticky soles.
8. The Harness -
When buying a harness look for something not to expensive, a Swinging Rock Rhythm Harness for around $45. You can either try to figure out how to put the thing on, or you can ask the professionals…..By far the easiest way. A general rule learned is that when ever you are putting something on, a harness or a rope, you always want 6 inches left over. If you try on a large harness and you only have 2 inches of the harness strap left over, then you need to remember Safety not vanity, and go up to an extra large harness. The most important aspect of buying a harness however, is how it feels when you sit in it. The harness needs to be comfortable as you will be spending a lot of time “sitting” in that harness. Don’t forget to try before you buy it.
9. The Helmet -
A helmet is a helmet. They all basically fit the same way and all have to meet certain standards. When you try on a helmet I suggest making it snug, like you would if you were climbing. Move your head up and down a couple of times, as this is the major motion being conducted when you climb. When you start climbing you shouldn’t be in any situation high enough where you need a helmet, however the helmet has protected and saved many climbers, it also protects from falling rocks up above. When you start getting good and start taking bigger chances it only makes sense to wear a helmet because you’re destined for a bigger fall and a greater chance of permanent head injury. Ephesians 6:17.
10. The Chalk Bag -
Finally the chalk bag. Not to expensive and is a matter of preference. If you don’t like one it’s easy to replace. When you buy chalk, loose chalk is easier to put on. The purpose of the chalk is basically to absorb the sweat from your hands and allows you to stick to the wall better.
So there you have it the quick and easy guide to getting the gear you need to start climbing.
Oh and one more thing to buy is a belay device, which allows you to hold somebody on the rope just incase they fall, and a corresponding carabineer but do not buy these things until you take an introduction to climbing coarse because other people besides yourselves rely on these devices so understanding them is best done from a teacher in person.
Introduction to climbing courses are available and are a must and mandatory, they last about 45mins and teach proper belaying techniques and how to tie in as a climber.
Ephesians 10-20 Happy climbing!
This was an article that the Lord showed me to take a look at for the year ahead, and I feel this year prophetically for each of us this has a significant meaning as to how and where the Lord wants us. I found it quite sobering and funny. As you read this there are many different analogies for all of us, it’s typical too how the Lord speaks to us no matter what level we are at. And I am finding out that what ever I thought I knew or have learnt seems to get wiped or stripped away. .It’s like starting on a new white board to start to learn on many different levels once again. It’s like the things I learnt from the year before get downloaded in a file in my head but I am aware that I can’t do things the same as I always have. As I am finding that to have new things from the Lord you have to have a clean board (no clutter or distractions) for Him to write on. And the things I have learnt from the Lord are sitting in the file. As I need them and when the Holy Spirit directs to use them then I can use them.
The Lord emphasised to me the prophetic word Tim Cassidy brought at the 2008 conference at Forerunners International. Tim was saying that we were at the base camp of the mountain of the Lord and we were to rest there and there would be refreshing for the task ahead. So I was thinking and asking the Lord what was next? If we are going to be at the base camp of the mountain of the Lord then we will have to climb that mountain sooner or later. And the Lord directed me to a rock climbing site and this is what I found from an article of a guy (very prophetic) what he said about starting out in rock climbing a site on the internet.
The rest of this word is pretty self explanatory. (It will probably make you laugh and cry) and I believe it is what we have to look at for the year ahead………
The first time one looks at a picture of a rock climber or goes to the local gym the item that stands out the most is the shoes. Sure we expect the harness and the helmet, the other two essential items in this article, but why are there special shoes? The answer, so I’ve learned is a combination of both power and stickiness! I will tell you what you basically look for in a shoe and then explain why which will also reveal how power and stickiness come into play.
THE SHOES - Ephesians 6: 15
As a beginner the one thing you need to realise is that your shoes are going to get trashed. You’re going to beat them up because you haven’t quite learned about the special soles and you are using them a lot without much technique….i.e. you’re falling and slipping all the time. Significantly which shoes you pick is important.
Here are some of the things to remember when buying shoes:
1. Price does matter- You’re first pair you trash and they wear out quickly as you (go cheap) haven’t got you’re technique right yet.
2. All day comfort- the more you progress and the more technical climbs you do, you will need more technical shoes, which will cost more money and be less comfortable, (until you get use to them) But right now, while you’re feet are learning technique and getting use to the shoes, all you care about is a shoe that provides all day comfort.
3. Shoe size- when you first try on a shoe start half a size smaller than your current shoes size. You’re feet should be nice and snug inside with no moving room. Your toes should be pushed together side ways, all your little toes pointing to your bigger toes, but they should not be curled up. They need to lay flat like they normally do …..(you’re toes that is). But by redirecting your toes into a sharper point the power from them is transferred much smoother and you are able to hold onto smaller bumps and ledges with you’re feet.
He goes onto say do not get one with an arch in the shoe straight away. As you have a natural arch in your foot and arched shoes over exaggerate your natural arch and are used for fine and power work….basically technical climbing. If when you try on these shoes, they meet the criteria and feel comfortable then go down half a size. If that feels comfortable then keep going down half sizes until you reach an uncomfortable level. Once you reach that level go up to the previous level where your shoes feel good. The analogy of this is to fit into a smaller shoe, as small as you can.
4. Synthetic vs leather- The only significant difference is that leather will stretch a little around your feet while synthetic will not. It’s up to you, but would be better if it stretches a little bit.
5. Velcro vs Tie- I bought shoes that you tie. As a beginner I do not recommend these and here’s why. When you are getting use to your shoes after climbing a route or two, you’re going to want to take them off to give your feet a chance to relax.( sounds like a lot of hard work to me) It’s about 100 times harder to do if you have shoes that you tie. Velcro is much quicker to relieve pain. When you progress and you climb longer and want to be able to snug up your shoes a little better then go tie.
6. Look Weird- When you try on your shoes they may feel fine when you stand up. But remember you are not going to be standing up when you are climbing, so put your shoes to the test. Hold onto a wall- stand on your tippy toes. How do they feel? Stand on the side of one foot. How does that feel? Remember that when you are climbing you will use the tips of your toes a lot and you usually don’t have much to hang onto, (except Jesus).
7. Breaking In- After you have finally brought your first pair of shoes, the first thing you will want to do is to wear them around the house, so your feet start getting use to them. I could only wear mine for 10 mins before the sides of my feet started to hurt. Rock climbing shoes have sticky soles.
8. The Harness -
When buying a harness look for something not to expensive, a Swinging Rock Rhythm Harness for around $45. You can either try to figure out how to put the thing on, or you can ask the professionals…..By far the easiest way. A general rule learned is that when ever you are putting something on, a harness or a rope, you always want 6 inches left over. If you try on a large harness and you only have 2 inches of the harness strap left over, then you need to remember Safety not vanity, and go up to an extra large harness. The most important aspect of buying a harness however, is how it feels when you sit in it. The harness needs to be comfortable as you will be spending a lot of time “sitting” in that harness. Don’t forget to try before you buy it.
9. The Helmet -
A helmet is a helmet. They all basically fit the same way and all have to meet certain standards. When you try on a helmet I suggest making it snug, like you would if you were climbing. Move your head up and down a couple of times, as this is the major motion being conducted when you climb. When you start climbing you shouldn’t be in any situation high enough where you need a helmet, however the helmet has protected and saved many climbers, it also protects from falling rocks up above. When you start getting good and start taking bigger chances it only makes sense to wear a helmet because you’re destined for a bigger fall and a greater chance of permanent head injury. Ephesians 6:17.
10. The Chalk Bag -
Finally the chalk bag. Not to expensive and is a matter of preference. If you don’t like one it’s easy to replace. When you buy chalk, loose chalk is easier to put on. The purpose of the chalk is basically to absorb the sweat from your hands and allows you to stick to the wall better.
So there you have it the quick and easy guide to getting the gear you need to start climbing.
Oh and one more thing to buy is a belay device, which allows you to hold somebody on the rope just incase they fall, and a corresponding carabineer but do not buy these things until you take an introduction to climbing coarse because other people besides yourselves rely on these devices so understanding them is best done from a teacher in person.
Introduction to climbing courses are available and are a must and mandatory, they last about 45mins and teach proper belaying techniques and how to tie in as a climber.
Ephesians 10-20 Happy climbing!
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