The Lord has brought this message to my heart several times in the past few weeks. It was originally posted in May of 2013, titled “Strand of Pearls,” and of all the messages He has given me, this is one of my favorites.
The Lord’s heart shines with love for His Bride in this message.
In this trying time, when many churches have been isolated and scattered, it is good to remember that we don’t stand alone–we are one body–the Body of Christ, His Bride, and ‘together we stand’ in glorious splendor!
Strand of Pearls
Envision, if you would, a strand of pearls–majestic and beautiful, graceful. Notice the gradual increase from the smallest pearl, at the clasp, to those that grace the throat. A bride wears these pearls–My Bride is these pearls. Each one a graceful beauty in itself, but oh, when alongside another–joined to the Body, truly you shine in glorious splendor!
One alone is easily lost . . .
And can easily fall away to a different direction. When each pearl is in its place, and doing its part, the strand is useful and beautiful in its purpose–all works together for good, together as one. Break the strand and most will tumble and fall, scattered in many directions–some lost. But notice it is the smallest, the tiny pearls, that fall away first. The larger pearls in the ‘united front’ remain united and carry on; awaiting new joiners or those that are found to return.
And there you see My Church Body–My Bride.
Should the clasp–the leader, remain strong–My church remains together, none are lost. If that clasp should falter and fail, the body will scatter, little ones lost, no further purpose; no union there.
The little ones, are those that cling closest to the clasp. They delight My heart for they are eager to please, but they have little root and cannot–must not stand alone. They easily fall away and do not hold the splendor of the majestic and wisened pearls; but they hold the. . .
Beauty of promise.
Sweetness of youth.
Without them the Body would not have balance, symmetry and graceful graduation. They are its true support! My least shall be first in My strand of pearls and the first I seek to restore, should My Church Body be broken.
My sage and wisened pearls, those standing sentry at the front–oh my how lovely, majestic in glory and remain strong on their own; they are easy to find, for they remain faithful and do not run when confusion comes. They seek to resolve–commit to restore and stand at the battlefront–they do not fear more.
But I caution My Body–those at the front . . .
You can be weighty and pull on the clasp. Pride can bring demand–remember your place. You are a servant, and one of the same body. You support the strand like everyone else. You are to submit to My leadership and those I appoint over you. Keep the clasp together, that none may be lost; all in their place–full of Grace, beauty to behold . . .
My united Bride–My pearls of great price!
I would sell all I have for just one of you; you are that valuable to Me.
And I did–I gave it all!
Stand united for My Glory–My Glorious Bride
For you are one, and to you–
I Come!
“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.” Ephesians 4:4-7
“Above all hold unfailing your love for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins. Practice hospitality ungrudgingly to one another. As each has received a gift, employ it for one another, as good stewards of God varied grace.” I Peter 4:8-10
“Likewise you that are younger be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” I Peter 5:5
“But many that are first will be last, and the last first.” Mark 10:31
“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their life, and imitate their faith.” “Obey your leaders and submit to them; for they are keeping watch over your souls, as men who will have to give account. Let them do this joyfully, and not sadly, for that would be of no advantage to you.” Hebrews 13:7, 17
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” Matthew 13:45-46
“Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love of the brethren, a tender heart and a humble mind.” I Peter 3:8
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being changed into his likeness from one degree of glory to another; for this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” II Corinthians 3:18
“Then came one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues, and spoke to me, saying, “Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb,” And in the Spirit he carried me away to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.” “And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, transparent as glass. And I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb.” Revelation 21:9-11, 21-22
“Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense, to repay every one for what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” “The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let him who hears say, “Come.” And let him who is thirsty come, let him who desires take the water of life without price.” Revelation 22:12-13, 17
“He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” Revelation 22:20
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Two new books available to help you in these challenging times . . .
“Comfort in the Challenge.” Published in 2019, and written in dedication to caregivers. A book inspired by God, in provision, before awareness of Covid 19. Read it to be comforted, and encouraged. All messages are spoken from the Heart of God as fresh bread. All proceeds from “Comfort in the Challenge” go directly to Canaanland Ministries of Autaugaville, Alabama. Canaanland has a wonderfully successful 40 year history, dedicated to helping men desiring to overcome addiction and find new life in Jesus!
“His Voice in My Heart,” published in 2020. A journey of messages God has spoken over the past seven years to bring healing and restoration to the wounded soul. In sorting messages for “Comfort in the Challenge,” ‘prisoners’ welled up in my heart so strongly, that I began to sort messages for this special assignment as well. “His Voice in My Heart” is filled with His messages to comfort, challenge and bring restoration; along with several inspiring true testimonies of God’s healing and provision. “His Voice in My Heart” is a book of your journey to freedom!
The messages are spoken from the heart of God, but are not meant to replace the Word; rather, they serve to lead you to it; to give practical application and encourage understanding of the Word. It is the Word of God that saves, heals and delivers–Jesus, is the Word. Included in both books you will find many scriptures for your study in the Word.
Both books may be ordered from, Nation of Women Publishing, found by clicking the link below.
Book Order Link: https://www.nationofwomenpublishing.com
Canaanland Ministries Link: https://www.canaanland.com
Contact: wordscroll@gmail.com
♥ Do not hold back from supporting ministries that are preaching the gospel around the world. They serve the Lord and are reaching places you may never see. When you support the preaching of the Gospel, you support the Lord’s work and hasten our coming Lord, King Jesus.♥
Human nature tends to shoot their best supporting foot, just because it steps a little different than the other. May we all take on the ‘nature’ of God and receive His peace and understanding for one another!
Thank you and God Bless You,
Lori J. O’Neil
Wordscroll 