Encourage, Enlighten, Empowered

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus….” Philippians 2:5a

During my prayer time this morning, I heard these three words: encourage, enlighten and empowered.   The Lord has said that in this season; if we can embrace the essence of these words…..  permitting their meanings to become as one anchor… we will obtain the ability to stand firmly in any situation.

First, I must learn how to truly encourage myself….as David did (I Samuel 30:6). Because of the rapidity of events in the realm of the spirit and in the natural; unless we establish a pattern of daily renewing our minds with the Word of God; depression, oppression and the like will attempt to take residence within our minds.  However we must not allow our attentions to wander, nor our allegiance to the Lord to become altered.  We must maintain an attitude of gratefulness.  Remember to speak over yourself and encourage yourself …..REGARDLESS!

Next, we must daily seek to educate ourselves concerning some subject. Enlarge your territory! (I Chronicles 4:9 & 10).   Never let a day end without having learning something new.  Be determined that you will learn at least one new thing every day.  When we don’t actively use our minds, because of the inactivity of certain brain cells; we have opened to door to various psychological disorders.  To become enlightened concerning any subject on a daily basis only requires one key element…. Discipline!  

Lastly, I must remember that I have already been empowered to accomplish EVERY task that I may encounter.   I will triumph in every situation!  (II Corinthians 2:14). God has given to me the power and the authority to successfully triumph in every situation.  However… when I am uncertain concerning this; I will permit the enemy to make me think that he has the upper hand.  We have the power…we have already been empowered.  Therefore, we must stand in the midst of any and every situation……commanding it to come into an alignment with what the Lord has said.  Our dilemma isn’t a lack of power.  However it could very well be: fear; a lack of wisdom; or a lack of correct information.

Therefore, it I encourage myself; become more enlighten; and walk in the empowered state that the Lord has already given unto me…..I can’t be defeated!  When my mind has truly been renewed to this position…… and I used these words as my foundation…… then I have become that feared individual that the enemy’s camp so dreads!!!

“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.” Proverbs 4:7 (ESV)

Your Axe-head Will Float Again (part 2)

(Read: II Kings 6:1-7)

In yesterday’s devotion our focus was drawn to the servant.  Today we will begin to discuss the stick in this story.

Briefly, here are a few facts:

·       The stick that was used was a freshly cut branch.  Elisha, didn’t use the helve after the hatchet had been lost.  He dispatched something new to retrieve something old. 

·       He released a lesser vessel (the wood) – to expose the heavier (the iron axhead).

·       The stick is symbolic of the cross.

What is our application for today?

·       God is using new strategies to bring restoration to old situations.  The axehead was symbolic of hard work.  Today, God’s new strategy is to get us to realize that HE has already done the hard work – physically.  Our focus must now be directed more to the realm of the spirit than to that of the natural.  We are no longer accountable to the law – which gave us rules and regulations that were accomplished through “working”.   We are now governed by the grace of God – which requires us to appropriate faith.   (Yes, faith w/o works is dead – but we don’t work to gain faith.  We work as a corresponding action “TO” our faith….. Another lesson!) 

·       In this season God is using those people and ministries that appear to be of a weaker and less notable reputation to have an authentic impact in the realm of the spirit.  He is using those who have the ability to be thrush into situations; and to bring exposure, closure and restoration to that situation.  He is using those who are pure in heart, actions and devotion to Him.  It therefore doesn’t matter how weak or limited one may appear to be….. Purity = Power. 

·       The stick represents wood.. which represents the cross.  The cross settles everything.  Whatever the issue, dilemma, adverse situation or problem.  It was settled at the cross.  It doesn’t matter.  The blood which was shed on the cross – settles EVERYTHING!  The blood of Christ was shed from at least 7 different places on His body.  Therefore wherever we throw our stick ….(wherever we apply the cross); restoration will occur.

(to be continued)

Just as God was able to use Elisha to move strategically in that emergency situation; He wants to have the ability to use you – immediately in any given situation.  However you must have made the proper preparations prior to the onset of an emergency situation.

Are you ready to be used as an “Elisha” ?   If so…. Expect God to use YOU in seemingly impossible situations!

(Not ready to be used?  Then stop the procrastination and begin TODAY the daily process of mind renewal.)

 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”  Hebrews 13:8

Your Axe-head Will Float Again

(Read: II Kings 6:1-7)

This story as recorded in II Kings has always been among one of my favorites.  Today we will not even be able to “scratch the surface” to reveal all that can be gleaned from the examples and principles provided in this story.  However, we’ll probably come back to it at a later date.

The focus for this meditation is the servant.  He was: working, in the right place, doing what he was instructed to do, using the proper tool and appearing to be accomplishing the task that was required of him.  However, all of a sudden – he was faced with a dilemma.  The very tool that he was using for advancement – which wasn’t even his, (he had borrowed it) – had vanished into the river – never to return again…. So he thought.

When you are faced with a dilemma – who is your first line of defense?  Many times we turn to a spouse, friend, colleague or family member.  Our servant in this story cried to his master.  He cried to someone who had the wisdom, faith and the solution to recover for him what he had lost.

So, just remember that your situation isn’t hopeless – no matter how it may appear to you.  The axehead in this story can represent any weapon that’s necessary for me to be effective against the kingdom of darkness.  Or any weapon used to bring down, cut down or cut up something.  The servant had temporarily lost sight of his weapon.  However with the proper guidance, and instruction, he was able to see the return of his valuable tool.

It is only when we are in the proper place; receive the proper supervision; are anchored by the proper support and obey the instructions which are given to us -that we will be able to cause our axhead to float again.

The servant had to do something. Faith without corresponding actions – is dead. So go now and recover your axehead – but don’t do it your way (leaning to your own understanding!).  You must listen to the voice of wisdom….which may be delivered by someone who can provide you with the careful and watchful guidance…. which is relevant to you for your recovery.  

  “Therefore I send you prophets and wise men and scribes,…….” Matthew 23:34 (ESV)

Heavy Weights Build Strong Muscles

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; Romans 5:3

In earlier years we used to sing a song entitled, “Jacob’s Ladder”.  It was one of those songs which had a seemingly endless amount of verses.  Each verse would end with the statement, “Soldiers of the Cross”.  At that time, I didn’t fully understand the concepts that were attempting to be expressed and impressed upon us. 

Today we have saints who fail to realize that they are “soldiers of the cross”. As a soldier, I must understand the fact that God has orchestrated every test, trial and difficult situation, for no other reason than to build my spiritual muscles.

Far too often we have only obtained the ability to successfully lift a ten pound weight in the realm of the spirit.  Then, we seem amazed when we are confronted with a situation requiring the ability to lift fifty pounds and we are unsuccessful – often blaming God for our inabilities and fallacies.  Sadly to say, I constantly observe Saints who are enduring very rigorous physical exercises and toning every physical muscle – however their spiritual muscles are flabby, weak and are in deplorable condition!  Physical exercise is extremely important – however we must exert MORE into the development and the conditioning of our spiritual muscles than those of our physical bodies.

So how do we begin to build up our spiritual muscles? 

1.     Trusting in our own relationship with the Lord.  As a babe in Christ, it was tolerable for us to always run and whine to other Saints with our problems and difficult situations.  However, when will you begin to trust and validate your own relationship with the Lord?  When will you begin to lift those heavier weights in the realm of the Spirit and really believe who and whose you are?  When will you believe what YOU say to the extent that you will KNOW because of your relationship with the Lord that whatever you’ve asked…. it’s done!?  When will you begin to build those muscles of faith and realize that God has given to you power?                                                                                                      I can attest to the fact that in extremely difficult situations, I’ve sought the Lord; trusted in Him and Him alone – without sharing the information with anyone else…. and He has NEVER failed. Sure, at the onset, my faith hadn’t matured to this level…. it was a process that had to begin at some point. When we ask God for something; and then proceed to ask someone else; that’s an indication that our spiritual muscles need to be toned.  In other words, that’s symbolic of asking your earthly father for something; and then, once you’ve asked him… would you go and ask someone else to accommodate you?  ….Only if your doubted him or felt as though he was incapable of producing your request.    So it is with our Heavenly father.  We must learn to trust Him with the assurance that He WILL grant our every request (that is in alignment with His word). His integrity is beyond reproach.  We can’t forget that we are joint heirs with His Son; and we must believe in our own relationship with Him. Of course thoughts will come and attempt to weaken your faith.  However we must be determine to lift those heavy weights by standing on the Word of God – if we are going to have those strong muscles. 

 (Now if you feel as though your walk isn’t strong enough yet for you to stand alone or your faith hasn’t progressed to this level yet; by all means seek for and request the assistance of others who are stronger than you are.  However, we must be determined not to be “co-dependent” upon anyone…other than the Holy Spirit!)

Yes, we are climbing a Spiritual ladder where every round gets higher and higher.  The song asked the question, “Do you think you’ll make a good soldier?”

As we lift the heavy weights in the realm of the Spirit, we will build those strong muscles which will enable us to effectively, successfully and strategically stand as an endtime soldier.  Then we will have merited the ability to respond with the concluding verses of the song by responding, “Yes I know I’ll make a good soldier”.  Then and only then will we be able to come into agreement with the last verse…. and totally “Rise, Shine, and Give God the Glory”.

To be continued…..

Yielded ….. But Not Broken

“Not of works”....  Ephesians 2:9

The Lord wants to be in total control of our lives.  However, for the most part, far too many of His faithful followers haven’t received the boldness which is required to operate from a platform of being broken.  They are faithful in the “doing” while lacking in the “being”.  In other words we are basically still living our lives from the position of observing the law (the covenant of works); instead of allowing the Holy Spirit to accomplish His work though us.

We have yielded our thoughts, actions and words to the LEADING of the Holy Spirit which is a great achievement… for a new convert.   When I “yield” in a given situation; I remain in control and decide the outcome of that situation.   When I am yielded, I will faithfully and in all sincerity pay my tithes, “assemble myself with other believers”, study and read my Bible, etc.  However, because I am only yielded – I am still basing my relationship with the Lord on all of these things that I am “doing”.

When I become that broken vessel …. I have matured to the place where I am no longer in control at all.  Therefore my mind has been renewed to the extent that I will move in instant obedience to the voice of the Lord.  A broken vessel truly “Takes no thought for tomorrow” when they receive a command from the Lord. A broken vessel doesn’t worry, fret or become overly concerned about the outcome of situations or circumstances.  A broken vessel has learned the art of resting in the Lord – regardless. 

A yielded vessel will know that they’ve heard the voice of the Lord; but may delay in obeying…

A broken vessel will know that they’ve heard the voice of the Lord and w/o giving it a second      thought - instantly obey.

A yielded vessel will still “stake claims” on their material possessions….

A broken vessel will say, “Lord EVERYTHING that I have is yours” - ….they will freely release  ANYTHING that they possess when the initial instruction comes from the Lord.

A yielded vessel is still in the process of being molded, reshaped and refashioned.   A yielded vessel is still developing into a vessel that has been stripped of every nonessential ideology, concept and precept.  Then once stripped, this vessel can now be broken by the power of the Holy Spirit and used totally by Him for His glory.  

To be effective in these last days; we can no longer be just yielded vessels.  It’s a new day! The Lord doesn’t desire for us to only be yielded.   We must become broken vessels. 

Broken vessels are vessels of virtue; broken vessels are vessels of valor and above all; broken vessels are vessels of Victory!

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.  Isaiah 43:19

I’m Still The Legal Heir

Read: II Samuel 4:4 & II Samuel 9

One of my favorite writings from the Bible is found in II Samuel 9.  This story is about a boy named Mephibosheth.  I don’t have the time to relay the entire story…. But, the bottom line is that Mephibosheth, who was the son of Jonathan, and the grandson of Saul was being carried by his nurse when he was quite young. One day Jonathan and Saul were both killed in the same day.  The city became in an uproar. Mephibosheth’s caretaker was trying to protect him from any harm by removing him from the commotion.  So she began to run with him in her arms. However, while she was running; in her haste, she dropped him – and as a result, he became permanently crippled.   Longer story short….He was therefore sent to live in a place called Lo Debar.   Years later, King David inquired if there was anyone still alive from the linage of Jonathan.  Mephibosheth’s name came up. King David sent for him; rescuing him from Lo Debar and brought him to live in the king’s palace.

Today we must remember that negative incidents from our past can’t prevent us from receiving what is rightfully ours!  There are certain blessings that we are privy to - simple because of whom we are.  Mephibosheth had no idea that he was going to be blessed.  As a matter of fact, when King David sent for him, he was fearful thinking the worst! But…He was a legal heir – and wasn’t even aware of that information.

So because of my spiritual linage I am a legal heir to everything that my spiritual Father possesses.   I am an heir of my father’s; and that makes me a joint heir with Christ (Romans 8:16).  I therefore, can expect to walk in the power and in the authority the Christ possessed; yet in a greater magnitude; producing a greater return (John 14:12).

As a legal heir I must realize:

·       Who I am, whose I am and for what purpose I have been placed where I am.

·       I am called to live in this world; however my royal linage will not permit me to become comfortable in anything that doesn’t represent my regal status.

·       My every anticipated provision has already been accommodated for.

·       When God’s appointed time arrives: He is able to and will send someone from somewhere to come and rescue me from my Lo Debar and reward me what is rightful mine.

…..Because I AM a legal heir….therefore I AM walking in greatness – REGARDLESS!!!

“You face your greatest opposition when your closest to your biggest miracle.”

Bishop T. D. Jakes

Are You a Spiritual Schizophrenic?

^“Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.”

                                                                                           Philippians 2:5-8 The Message Bible

If someone were to ask you that question, what would be your immediate response?  More than likely, everyone would emphatically reply NO!  But if we were to take an inventory of our lives- today - would our “walk” be in alignment with our “talk”?

Basically “schizo”; without getting into too much detail; is a mental disorder that makes it extremely difficult and sometimes impossible for a person: to tell the difference between what is real and not real; to think clearly; to have normal emotional responses; and act normally in social situations.

So, think about your daily walk.  Then consider the following;

1.     In the realm of the Spirit…what influence do I impose to diabolical plots and plans if I operate as a schizo?

2.     Can I readily make the distinction between the real and the “temporal”?

3.     Do I display on a regular basis wherever I go the character qualities of who I really am? ……Or am I still double minded, perpetrating a fraud and an undercover Saint?

Schizophrenia is also categorized as a chronic, severe, and disabling brain disorder that has affected people throughout history.   If we are going to make an impact and persevere in these last days, we will need the endtime wisdom, to strategically comprehend our mission of walking by faith and not by sight – a principle that first requires a “disengaging” of our current mind set. 

We must encounter and embrace a “disabling brain disorder” that will permit us to be governed by the Holy Spirit; rather that by the ordinances of this world’s systems, its boundaries and its limitations  - which have been programmed into our minds for years.

Therefore, to be classified as a schizophrenic in the natural would afford me the opportunity to be viewed from an extremely negative perspective.   However, in the realm of the Spirit, if I continued to operate as a schizophrenic, the results will be detrimental to body of Christ!

So, prayerfully consider James chapter 1.  Seek the face of the Lord for the ability to effectively and thoroughly apply wisdom.  The type of wisdom which is needed to be healed and made whole from any type of “spiritual schizophrenia” that might be still lingering within you……. Undetected and hidden by spiritual imposters!

“So get rid of all that is wrong in your life, both inside and outside, and humbly be glad for the wonderful message we have received, for it is able to save our souls as it takes hold of our hearts.” James 1:21  (The Living Bible)

…..From the Inside Out

 “Woe to you, Pharisees, and you religious leaders—hypocrites! You are so careful to polish the outside of the cup, but the inside is foul with extortion and greed.”

 Matthew 23:25 (The Living Bible)

Today marks the beginning of a time when we in the Christian arena turn our focus towards the period of temptation and persistence that our Saviour endured just for us.   This season of Lent affords us the opportunity to learn many valuable lessons from the Lord. 

Christ was able to endure every temptation that He encountered because He lived His life from the inside out.  He didn’t allow the occurrences that transpired to diminish who He knew that He was.  He maintained His focus and never lost sight of His ultimate goal.  He lived His life from the inside out.

In my opinion, the duck is a perfect example for today’s meditation.  Many people don’t like to eat duck because they say that it’s too greasy.  No doubt, those of you here in America heard the expression, “Like water rolls off of the duck’s back.” (Or something to that effect.)  Well, the reason why water will roll off of the back of a duck, is because the back of the duck is composed with glands that constantly secrete oil.  Just to summarize the whole process; when water falls on the back of the duck, the water can’t penetrate the oil covering that’s being produced – from the inside to the outside! Therefore, that water on the outside, has little or no effect on the duck, because of what’s on the inside of the duck.

As we go through this Lenten Season I would encourage you to not just give up something for a 40 day period. Why not during this period of consecration…. allow the power of the Holy Spirit to illuminate some of the areas on the “inside” of you where He is not in full control?  During this Lenten Season let’s draw our attentions more to the Spirit realm instead of the sensual realm.  (What is discerned by our senses; what we see, hear, taste, touch and smell.) 

Our only chance for successfully walking down our God ordained path, is to learn to live this life from the inside out.  What’s on the inside will come out.   Matthew 23:26 instructs us to clean the inside of the cup and the outside will be come clean. 

So during this 40 day period, initiate a permanent change. Be determine to allow your “back” to become so saturated with the oil of the Holy Spirit that dwells in you; that whatever the enemy throws you way, will have no lasting effect. …… it will just roll on off……because you are living your life from the inside out.

“You’re hopeless, you religion scholars and Pharisees! Frauds! You burnish the surface of your cups and bowls so they sparkle in the sun, while the insides are maggoty with your greed and gluttony. Stupid Pharisee! Scour the insides, and then the gleaming surface will mean something.” Matthew 23:25-26 (The Message Bible)

Worshipping, Warriors Win!

Romans 8:37; I Corinthians 15:3,

We must always remember that whatever we need to sustain us is already on the inside of us. Sometimes we think that we need to get “more” before we can excel or move forward.  For the most part, most people simply need to learn how to worship.  More battles in this life would victoriously be won…..if we only understood the relevance of worship.

We praise God because of what He has done – as a sign of gratitude.  However we worship Him because of WHO He is.  As a warrior, worship is essential.  It’s in the atmosphere of worship that I’m able to receive the strategies that will permit me to win EVERY battle.  Although you may not realize it, but you are a warrior!  Within us we all have an innate ability to fight.  However, we must aim those “energies” in the correct direction.

I would like to encourage you to become more engaged in worshipping the Lord.  When we worship the Lord – there is an open communication between us, which permits us to converse with Him - Spirit to spirit.  The results from this type of worship will permit us to receive the stamina and the wisdom - that is necessary to outwit the enemy…..every time!

A warrior knows no defeat.  A warrior can realize that there are really no failures in life – only opportunities to learn.  Question?????? – “If I’ve attempted to accomplish a task and didn’t receive the expected results – but have LEARN from the experience…did I fail? 

A warrior has a mindset that doesn’t conform, but will transform whatever they encounter. 

So you need to realize that …you ARE a winner. …you ARE a warrior….. but above all.. you are called to be a worshipper!

The Comma

“Be still, and know that I am God. …………..” Psalm 46:10

When using written communications to convey our thoughts to others, it is much easier for us to be understood when we use various punctuation marks.    Whether you are the writer or the reader; without the use of punctuation marks it would be virtually impossible for our communication to be successful.  One such marking that most of us are familiar with is the comma.  The comma, unlike the period informs us the we haven’t arrive at the end; there is still more to come; so just take a brief pause and continue on.

Our lives are also accompanied with various “accent or punctuation marks”.  There will be times when we arrive at the place when it becomes necessary to take a brief rest – and then continue on.  In other words – we’ve arrive at a place that we know isn’t the end or the final stage of the project.  Yet, we are not feeling as those we should proceed “right now”.  This may be the time when it is necessary to take a brief pause – and then continue on.  You just might be experiencing the result of a “spiritual comma” that God has inserted into the “sentence of your life”.  God strategically places the commas in our lives where He knows that they will effectively impact us and those to whom he has called us to minister.  Don’t ignore the commas, or else the remainder of the sentence will be perplexing.

So just remember, the comma is the signal to stop briefly; and then continue on.  Don’t become too comfortable or discouraged in the “comma” place.  There is still more to be accomplished. God will use YOU to achieve all that He has promised.  Don’t become disheartened when the situations and circumstances which were once “sailing smoothly”; sudden appear to hit a few bumps in the road…..even though you know that the journey isn’t complete.  Maybe you’ve just encounter a spiritual comma.  So remain calm, seek the face of God for any amendments that need to be implemented… and wait for the release to proceed further.

Acknowledge and appreciate the commas…. They are the brief resting places along this “sentence” of life.

And He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a lonely place and rest a while."……

Mark 6:31

The Eye of the Needle

“And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.”         Matthew 19:24, Mark 10:25, Luke 18:25

One reference source explains the “eye of the needle” as a secondary gate which was used at night when the primary entrance had already been sealed for the evening.  This gate was much smaller in height and width than the main gate.  The only way that a camel could enter would be to get down on its knees, be stripped of all of its baggage and guided carefully though.

In our text, the Lord isn’t condemning anyone for being rich; however the warning is being given to all who have excelled in obtaining material gain.  Be your riches in the areas of: finances, education, prestige, or in any other area; whatever you have acquired in excessive must not replace your love and allegiance to the Lord.  Far too often, when someone begins to “move up the ladder” their level of dedication, integrity, and loyalty to the Lord gradually begins to diminish. 

We have read for years that the wealth of the wicked is laid up for the just.  We have also heard about the great release of finances that is on the onset for those who have been faithful.

As you continue to receive your endtime release, it is imperative that you increase your devotion and admiration to and for the Lord. 

Don’t lose your focus.  One of the concepts concerning the eye of the needle that is relevant for today is this: we must be willing to be stripped of everything for the cause of Christ.  We must not become so attached to anything - that we will not release it at a command from the Lord.  We must never consider ourselves too “important” to get down on our hands, knees and faces in the presence of the Lord (Give no place to the spirit of pride!).

The eye of the needle can also be symbolic to entering into the holy of holies in the realm of the spirit.  We must be stripped of everything prior to the Lord granting us permission to enter. Many people are saved; however not everyone who is saved will be given access to the “holy of holies” in the realm of the spirit.   To gain access requires one to value their relationship with the Lord to the degree that they are willing to surrender any and everything, for and to Him. 

Again I reiterate: Don’t Lose Your Focus!  The tables have begun to turn and the imminent release to the true Saints is no longer pending – it’s here!  However, if we are going to retain all that we receive, we must maintain our relationship with the Lord; and increase in our devotion to Him.  Our hearts must remain pliable to the leading of the Holy Spirit.  When we totally surrender our hearts – whatever is in our hands will automatically follow.

Don’t be compared to the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-26).   Daily remind yourself that you must be able and willing to forsake it all for the cause of Christ.  Above all…. remain disciplined enough to pass through the eye of the needle.

Power Outage

Read.. I John 4:1-5

A while ago there was an article in “Bloomberg Businessweek” which attempted to explain the shifting balance in the world’s economy.  The writer exampled the purchases of a few US major brands like Heinz (worth about $23 billion) and Burger King ($3.3 billion) by foreign investors.  The writer also shared an insight to the enhanced concepts that have now invaded our economic and political arena – from which no one is currently exempted. In other words the power that once stabilized the US and her “commodities” is no longer valid.  She has lost her leverage and is experiencing a major power outage.

As I read the article, I began to equate it to a dilemma that we are apparently experiencing in the body of Christ.  It appears that we also have been invaded by foreign investors!  It appears that the Church has now given birth to a generation; who, like the new breed of Israelites (read Exodus chapter 1) - knows not the God of their former and founding Fathers.

The Church has permitted the removal of the old land mark – for which we were cautioned not to do (Proverbs 23:10).  We have permitted the elimination of foundational principles in our Churches by those who KNEW NOT OUR GOD…….foreign investors! We have looked in the opposite direction with the introduction of a total “lack of respect” for the ordinances and sacraments in our Churches – and adopted “less intimidating” laws….. foreign investors!   In other words, I would dare to say that the average Christian has taken this dispensation of “grace” as a “get out of jail free card”.  They have no longer acquired the proper convictions to correctly amend their spirits to conform to such mandates as: celibacy, tithing or fasting.  We have now sought to just be “comfortable” and to engage in whatever we “feel” is correct……foreign investor! And the list could continue forever!

So what has this given rise to? Sadly to say…the pitiful, disgraceful, inadequate spiritual state that we find existing in far too many of our Churches.  We’ve permitted these foreign investors to cause a “disturbance” and a depletion in the realm of the spirit.  Therefore we have a vast power outage!

The Church’s power outage, is to the extent that many Christians no longer experience that current which empowers them with the drive to: visit and care for the sick, make prison visits, regularly attend prayer meetings and Bible studies… and what is an All Night Prayer Service????   We will comfortably sit and leave those “task” to those who are “called” to those ministries!   We, the body of Christ, have experienced a major power outage in the realm of the spirit; therefore the enemy can just come boldly into our Churches without any or by receiving very little opposition. We need locks on the Church doors and security guards in our services because we don’t have the power to build and establish an effective barrier against the enemy’s tactics……power outage!

Foreign investors may not have the ability to be conquered in the economic arena.  However, II Chronicles 7:14 is still applicable today.  Although we are fully aware of the fact, that as the end of time as we know it draws nigh; that there are certain occurrences that must transpire to fulfill what the Lord has promised.  However, we must be determined that we will not fall privy to any of the standards which are being introduced to us from the kingdom of darkness – foreign investors.

 There is no earlier time than now to begin to make the proper amends to assure yourself that you will not be included in this power outage….but that your power supply will remain….and that your connection to the main power source maintains its authenticity.

 “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them.”                 I John 4:1-5 ESV

God’s “Funambulist”

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”  Hebrews 12:11

Our walk as endtime saints can benefit greatly from gleaning a little knowledge about this gift of funambulism.   Funambulism; usually referred to as tight rope walking is an art or skill that is admired by many; but acquired by few.

God has required of us some of the same characteristics that are applicable to the funambulist.  For example:

1. The tight walker must never become over confident. (Don’t get heady: II Timothy 3:1-17)

2. They must remain focused. (Philippians 2:5)

3. Must ignore the crowds of people below them.  (Acts 16:16-17)

4. Carry no baggage. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

5. Maintain balance.  (I Corinthians 6:12)

6. Be mentally sound. (Romans 12:1&2)

7. Assert discipline.  (I Corinthians 8:25)

8. Stay physically fit altering their eating habits. (Proverbs 25:27)

Since we are called to be God’s tight rope walker in the realm of the spirit, as well as in the natural realm, we can therefore avail ourselves of these attributes.

 A tight rope walker in the realm of the spirit or in the natural will only survive if they have already received the necessary preparation prior to approaching the tight rope.  Our daily regimen should have no allowance for the tolerance of anything that will distract or divert us.  Preparation is our endtime key! We must begin to prepare ourselves now for the days ahead. 

We have within us the vital components to be that skillful funambulist.  However, without the application of the above eight listed attributes, our strategies will not possess the effectiveness that will permit us to successful reign and to walk the heights that the Lord desires for us.

‘Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.”

Proverbs 12:1 ESV

It’s Manifestation Time!

“Yes indeed, it won’t be long now.” God’s Decree.  Things are going to happen so fast your head will swim, one thing fast on the heels of the other. You won’t be able to keep up. Everything will be happening at once—and everywhere you look, blessings! Blessings like wine pouring off the mountains and hills. I’ll make everything right again for my people Israel: “They’ll rebuild their ruined cities. They’ll plant vineyards and drink good wine. They’ll work their gardens and eat fresh vegetables. And I’ll plant them, plant them on their own land. They’ll never again be uprooted from the land I’ve given them.” God, your God, says so.               Amos 9:13-15 (MSG)

I had read the following vision of a Prophet concerning the above verses: “Two men walked through a freshly plowed field, dark and rich with ready soil. The first man had a very large canvas sack hanging in front of him full of corn seed. The man behind him had a large sickle. They began to walk down the first row in the field and soon were walking in perfect step, right-left, right-left... As the first man walked, he would drop a corn kernel, then drive it deep into the soil using his right heel. As soon as his heel came up out of the deep soil, the corn stalk would immediately spring up to full height and the ears of corn would "pop" into fullness. At almost that exact instant, the man carrying the sickle would swipe through the base of the plant, harvesting it immediately - just barely missing the heel of the man in front of him. This continued down the row: at each step, the seed would fall, be planted, spring to life and be harvested - in an instant.”

Many in the body of Christ are daily beginning to reap the benefits and provisions that have been previously prophesied and witnessed by the Saints of old.  The Word for us as endtime warriors is FAITHFULNESS! God has begun to return to us ALL that has been stolen - and lost; be it through ignorance, negligence or abortion.

However, as you begin to receive, you must remain faithful and sincere in your devotion to your calling, your vision, and your purpose. Manifestation without the proper maintenance will result in failure! 

So… Launch out of the box in your cognitive capacities and don’t limit the interpretation of these verses to just your finances. Expect such an increase in your wisdom, knowledge and understanding, that you will begin to become more proactive instead of reactive, in your approach to the dismantling of every diabolical device aimed in your direction.  Expect an increase in productive relationships.  Expect an increase your territory; physical, spiritual and mental.  Expect increase, increase, and increase!!!  Expect an increase of everything that is positive in your life.  Expect to receive a level of greatness that has not been readily available nor accessible.   

Yes it’s manifestation time… so if you haven’t already done so…..shift your mindset to now operate from the position of being the lender and not the borrower… of being above only and never again beneath ANYTHING!   

Just Trust Him!

“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.”    Ephesians 3:20

On several occasions I’ve used as an opening statement, “Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus, Just to Take Him at His Word.”  (Now, a few of you may remember that to be the title of an old favorite hymn.)  Well, when I woke up, someone was singing that song on my television.  Then when I tuned in to Pandora, that very song was playing again!  Coincidence???? No way! Just another divinely orchestrated plan of God.  ….Just God attempting to get our attention and to relay the message that we must trust Him!

So with assurance, I know that God wants us to find comfort in trusting Him.  He wants us to find our satisfaction and pleasure in Him…. and in all that He represents.  God wants us to realize that we only have to take Him at His Word.   He longs for us to know that it IS “sweet” to just trust Him.

When some of us use the terminology “that’s sweet” we would be implying to the taste of food.  Still for another group of you, “that’s sweet” would mean that something has received your stamp of approval and that you are really in agreement with the situation.  However – it doesn’t matter which definition you can relate to – the word sweet has a positive implication. 

There are times when we have difficulty in trusting fully in God because we forget that He has no colleagues, contemporaries, or equal.  Therefore we can’t conclude or compare our decisions concerning what He will do, with what others have or have not done to or for us. In other words, because someone has failed or disappointed you – you shouldn’t base your trust in God against such.  God will ALWAYS base His EVERY move concerning us on His undying, uncompromising, unconditional, unwavering love for us.  That’s why we can trust Him!  That’s why it’s so, so, sweet to trust in Jesus.  And because His Word CAN’T fail – because He has promised that His word won’t return to Him void – we can take Him at His Word.

So Just Trust Him –when trials came.  Just trust Him – to turn every negative situation around in your favor.  Just trust Him to supply your every need and Godly desire.  Just trust Him for the salvation of your unsaved loved ones.  Just trust Him to do exceeding and abundantly MORE than you could ever imagine.

How do you trust Him?  By finding a scripture to correspond with your situation.  Then use that scripture as your spiritual medicine.   Just as your Dr. may prescribe a medication to be taken three or four times daily – take your spiritual medicine throughout the day.  Now… some medications have to be taken for a while – and may even have several refills.  But we will religiously take it, and get the refills – and maybe even request a new script when we have exceeded the refills!! However that doesn’t stop us from trusting in that medicine.  Well, when we apply the same tenacity with our spiritual medicine “taking” it throughout the day, week, month and maybe for the year – we will begin to build our trust channels in the Lord and conform our minds to the mindset of trusting Him.

Deitrick Haddon sings a popular song entitled “He’s Able”; which says,

“Don’t give up on God cuz He won’t give up on you…He’s Able!”

Exceedingly, abundantly, above all, all you could ask or think according to, the power,  that worketh in you.

God is able to do just what he said he would do.

He's gonna fullfill every promise to you.

Don't give up on God cause He won't give up on you.  He's Able, yeah, He's able.

So just trust God and you will discover that it truly is “sweet” to trust Him.

Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, Just to take Him at His Word;

Just to rest upon His promise, And to know, “Thus saith the Lord!”

Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him! How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er;

Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! Oh, for grace to trust Him more! (Louisa M. R. Stead.)

Lord, I’m Available

Into your hands I commit my spirit….. Psalm 31:5

I recently had the opportunity to speak to someone that I hadn’t seen for quite some time.  This person is a minister and has been used mightily for and by the Lord.  When I questioned them concerning their current status; they informed me that they were not longer “interested” in ministry.

 Although we all have those days when we FEEL as though it’s easier to just throw in the towel, we can’t be motivated by our feelings!  We can’t afford to permit the enemy to bring us to the conclusion that the Lord has made a mistake when He has chosen to give to us certain gifts.

So how do we keep up the momentum?  How do we remain available to the Lord year upon year upon year? How do we continue to stand - regardless?   Listed below are a few suggestions.  Always remember… although you may not be able to physically see the impact that you are making in the realm of the spirit… if you weren’t accomplishing anything – then the enemy wouldn’t try to convince you to give up!   The stronger that the desires are for you to just “give it up” - the more you should be assured that you are really a “throne in the flesh” of the enemy.  Now is not the time to take our spiritual gifts for granted. The Lord needs the availability of ALL of us more now than ever before. 

We must, as endtime Saints; remain available to and for the cause of Christ; available for the move of God, available for the work of ministry and above all available to be used totally for and by the Lord.

To be certain that I remain available I must:

1.     Spend quality time in the Lord’s presence ( Matthew 6:9-15; Psalm 92:2)

2.     Develop a pattern of fasting on a regular basis  (Matthew 6:16)

3.     Read your sword daily  (Psalm 27:8)

4.     Don’t ignore the guidance of the Holy Spirit (I Kings 19:12)

5.     Live a lifestyle that is so committed to the Lord, that the devil finds no open door within us to gain an access. (Galatians 2:20,21; John 14:30b; Romans 12:1,2)

6.     Know that the Lord wants to use me and can use me.

Ron Kenoly expressed it this way: “If you can use anything Lord, You can use me. Take my hands Lord, take my feet, Touch my heart Lord, speak through me, If You can use anything, You can use me.”

So, continue to “make yourself” available to be used of the Lord.  Remember…. Some lost soul maybe waiting just for you!

^“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”                                                                                                                    

Lighthouse or “Lite” House?

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”  John 1:5

The light within the lighthouse is always shining.  However, its light is only visible when there is an absence of; or a limited availability of sunlight.   Sailors would often rely on the lighthouse to guide them or to warn them of dangerous conditions at night or when the weather was cloudy.  So, although the light from a lighthouse would shine just as brightly in the day; that light was totally irrelevant…until darkness appeared.  

We have been called to be the lighthouse for the world today.  The unsaved can be compared to a sailor who is lost at sea …in the dark.  They, the world, are wandering around looking and hoping to find some refuge and comfort for their minds.  They are looking for answers.

The dilemma is this; instead of those who are called to be the lighthouses, standing as the lighthouse; far too often, be stand as a “Lite” house.  The word lite refers to something which contains a low or lesser amount of a substance than the original item.  Therefore a lite house would not contain the power to withstand the storms of life; and would therefore succumb to the pressures of this world.  A lite house is one who professes Christ with their mouth; but their works and lifestyle example a completely different revelation. 

·       A lighthouse will stand in faith believing in the promises of God; however a lite house will give in and think that God won’t fulfill His promises.

·       A lighthouse will continue to pay their tithes and offerings regardless to their circumstances; however a lite house will make excuses and stop when financial problems arise.

·       A lighthouse will have the ability to stand and to be a living witness for the Lord without regards to their surrounds or to the circumstances; however a lite house will lack the boldness, stamina and loyalty to God that is required to living example in every situation.

And the list could continue.  However we must remember that the Lord needs us to stand in these last days and to be true lighthouses for Him.  The darker the night the brighter the light.  In other words…. as this world becomes darker and more of the endtime diabolical plans of the enemy are daily released; we, the true lighthouses must shine brighter.

Lastly, we must remember, that if our lights are to be seen…. We must be willing to be in the midst of the darkness… and yet shine!

(Note: those of you who know me, know that I’m old school and love a good hymn every now  and again! This one I remember from my childhood.)

Let the Lower Lights Be Burning

Lyrics By Philip Bliss

Verse 1

Brightly beams our Father’s mercy, From His lighthouse evermore,

But to us He gives the keeping, Of the lights along the shore.

Refrain:

Let the lower lights be burning! Send a gleam across the wave!

Some poor struggling, fainting seaman… You may rescue, you may save.

Verse 2:

Dark the night of sin has settled, Loud the angry billows roar;

Eager eyes are watching, longing, For the lights along the shore.

Trim your feeble lamp, my brother; Some poor sailor, tempest-tossed,

Trying now to make the harbor, In the darkness may be lost.

Refrain:

Let the lower lights be burning! Send a gleam across the wave!

Some poor struggling, fainting seaman… You may rescue, you may save.

“And Let Us Not Be Weary….

We Will Reap –If We Don’t Quit”

^“So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit.”         Galatians 6:9       (The Message Bible)

Be encouraged!  The journey may have been long and the nights sleepless.  However, just remember that God will always prove Himself to be faithful.  Whatever He has promised … it SHALL, and it MUST come to pass (Numbers 23:19).

 Endurance is the key at this stage of the game.   Change = Endurance.  The more drastic the change, the more intense will be the level of endurance.  When we begin to think about that word endurance– we will immediately relate it to some sort of battle, struggle or adverse condition.  The Greek word for endure (hupomeno); is defined as: “to preserve: under misfortunes and trials, to hold fast to one's faith.”  Therefore, if there are no opposing forces, or conflicting circumstances then there would not be anything to press through – there would be no reason to “endure”. 

When we look at a bowl of fruit, it may very well be balanced and neatly arranged.  However, at that state, the fruit which is just sitting in a bowl, is not serviceable. It is not fulfilling its purpose.  Even though it has endured and weathered various stages to arrive at its present state, it still hasn’t reaped the benefit for which it was created.   Now, if the fruit is going to be consumed, it must still undergo even more changes.  It must be transformed so that it will obtain the ability to be totally useful and beneficial. 

We, like the fruit which is sitting in a bowl, must endure and not become: fatigued, worn-out, drained….weary.  Sometimes we become weary because we have focused only on our spiritual man and haven’t amended the activities that will benefit our physical lifestyles.  Remember….There is no substitute for maintaining healthy eating habits, and getting the proper amount of rest and relaxation. 

Change = Endurance…..and Endurance also = Change!  It IS our due season…. However we will only reap our harvest if we continue to endure every facet of change as a good soldier

(2 Timothy 2:3), and be determined to EMBRACE every stage of change and not give up nor become weary.

Broken Boundaries

“I have been crucified with Christ: and I myself no longer live, but Christ lives in me. And the real life I now have within this body is a result of my trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

To live a life that has been crucified requires that we establish and maintain boundaries.    Therefore, I must at any cost not permit the cares, pleasures and lifestyles of this world to persuade me to permit my God given boundaries to become broken.    Today, we are witnessing the effects of “broken boundaries” in our homes, our government…and what’s even worst, within the body of Christ.   The body of Christ as a whole has the power to totally uproot and overthrow every diabolical decision that our government attempts to impose upon us.   However, because we have permitted some many boundaries to become broken; the Christ who resides within us is no longer living through us. 

We must at all times remain cognizant of the fact that the boundaries which God has established for our lives must remain intact.  Sadly, to say; far too many of us have permitted unmended perimeters to attempt to guard our spirit, soul and body.  We have gradually, inch by inch removed the “ancient landmarks”.  Therefore, as a result of these broken boundaries; the body of Christ as a whole has loss her stamina, power, authority and respect.  Now… there are groups here and there who are attempting to make an impact.  However, when you consider the amount of people who profess to be Christians and who have surrendered their lives to the Lord; and compare it to the influence that we are exhibiting in major decisions; it is evident that we have too many broken boundaries.

I can remember in times past when the “real” Saints didn’t play numbers; now you have houses of worship sponsoring trips to the casinos….. Broken boundaries.  Previously, Saints didn’t watch various programs on the television; now I hear and see everyone talking about the latest weekly series…… Broken boundaries.  We have also broken the boundaries when considering what we permit our spiritual diets to contain.  Most spiritual diets today aren’t composed of enough spiritual nutrition to sustain a newborn Saint…..Broken boundaries. 

Let’s become more focused on allowing the Holy Spirit who dwells within us to truly live through us.  This means taking a non-compromising stand for everything that God opposes….regardless!  This means no negotiating or “plea bargaining” when it comes to what we do, where we go, what we eat, what we say, what we wear; our giving and our living; our dispositions and our attitudes. 

So… because we have been crucified with Christ, trust God!  We must allow the life that we now live, to a living sacrifice of a lifestyle that exemplifies the power, and the authority of  the Holy Spirit who inhabits our spiritman.  The world needs what we have.  Therefore we must, at any cost, refuse to permit our boundaries to remain broken!

Why Are You An Asymptomatic Saint?

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  Matthew 7:20

Mark 16:17 & 18 reads: “And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues;  they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Those verses clearly state the signs, or the symptoms that are to be manifested in you as one who is a believer.  The Greek word which has been translated here for the word believe is piseno; meaning to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to a person or thing).

No one can “see” the extent of your faith.  However the evidence of your inward conviction is characteristic with those “symptoms” stated in Mark 16.  The key here is to advance your level of faith to the degree that you, yourself are convinced of its authority and power.  We already have faith, we already have the ability and we have already received the proper authorization to successful display every “symptom” stated in Mark 16.  Yet we permit to enemy to: fool, mislead, trick and deceive us into doubting who and whose we really are! 

Therefore, many of us can be referred to as asymptomatic saints!  We may possess the title as a saint; know and use the correct phrases; we regularly attend services, Bible study….and Prayer Meeting!  However, where is your level of faith registering on the “faith thermometer”?  How many of the symptoms listed in Mark 16: 17 &18 are evident in your life?

So in reference to the initial question, “Why are you an asymptomatic saint?”…… only you know the genuine answer.  However, whatever your reasoning may be…. It’s only an excuse.  An excuse that the enemy has given to you – to prevent your effectiveness in defeating him and his kingdom.  An excuse ….a lie that you’ve believed and accepted as truth!

Let’s get down to some real business.  The time has come that we can no longer “comfortably” exist as asymptomatic.  We must now become so “symptomatic” in our profession and confessions that we are manifesting every sign that is recorded in Mark 16.

The world needs to see US walking in the same power that was displayed in years past. They MUST know that our God is the true and living God…whose power hasn’t diminished… and that He is truly the same yesterday, today and shall be forever more!!