To Receive Your “Suddenly” Breakthrough…

Don’t Miss The Sound!                         

“And when you shall HEAR the sound of marching in the top of the mulberry trees, then you shall advance quickly.”  I Chronicles 14:15

We are still under the guidance of our “Suddenly” God.  The Lord, our Baal Perazim (the God of Breakthrough) is yet confirming His position in our current battle.  Just as He was with David, He is reminding us that His wisdom still supersedes that of the adversary.  Just as He broke through for David – He is suddenly breaking through for us.  However, there are always guidelines that we must adhere to in order to receive our “suddenly”.

When reading this story in II Samuel we discovered that Baal Perazim required David’s response  to be quick and at precisely the right time.  Let’s consider the plateau from which David operated.

1. David had to know the voice of the Lord.
2. David had to remain alert and attentive in the realm of the spirit.
3. David had to already have his weapons and be positioned offensively.

When we attempt to correlate this story to our daily lives, we must remember that:

1. David sought the Lord for direction prior to the onset of the battle.
2. The Lord went before David and “Broke Through” the front line of the enemy’s defense.
3. Whatever the Lord has done before, He still has the power to do again.

I found it interesting that David was told to LISTEN for a certain sound. If we are going to know exactly when to advance, conquer and reclaim our territory; then we must critique or fine tune our ability to recognize a specific sound. Far too often we are listening to and following the wrong sound!  David’s specific sound was the sound of marching.  Are you aware of the sound that God is using in your life as a form of confirmation? 

Next, the sound was in a designated place - the tree tops.  Not on the ground, nor in the air, but in the top of the mulberry trees.  This fact reminds us that the specific sound will resonate from a specific, designated destination….. to the ear of one who has the sensitivity and the discernment to hear!

So, because Baal Perazim had already preceded David, he (David) was able to be victorious.

Our God is still operating as Baal Perazim today.  He has broken through the front line of defense in our enemy’s territory and is permitting us to recover all!  But we must LISTEN for our specific marching orders.

Don’t permit there to be a delay in receiving your “suddenly” blessings because you didn’t hear or recognize the voice of God concerning His specific instructions; advising you how and when to advance - and recover all!

Just as David did…. Seek the face of God, Listen for the Sound, and March your way to victory.

Expect your “Suddenly Blessings” to manifest…. TODAY……SUDDENLY!!!!!!

Many Are Called, Only Few Are Chosen

 “For many are called (invited, summoned), but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:14

Recently, I have been encountering many Saints of God who are exhibiting the characteristics that would view them as not continuing to adhere to the authenticity that God desires of endtime Saints.

People of God, Now is not the time to lessen our allegiance to the integrity in the realm of the spirit.  It’s not a matter of our standing in relationship to Heaven or Hell.  At this stage of the game, it is our mandate to exhibit to the world that we are called to be those “few” chosen examples.

I am observing those who were walking in “seemingly” obedience to the Lord, now lessoning their integrity to the Lord.  Saints who are adhering to the ways of the world, instead of being a called out, chosen one displaying a lifestyle for the Lord.

The examples could continue.  Just know that now is not the time to be outwitted by the enemy.  Whatever it took before to maintain your alertness, even more is required now.  Remember that the gifts and callings are without repentance.   God is obligated to honor His word.  Just because your prayers are being answered and you’re “flowing” doesn’t authenticate that you are walking in obedience!

The Lord has been telling me to express the “newness” in this season.  I encourage you to seriously survey your life.  Repent for drifting.  Ask God to show you the junk in your trunk.  Some are going to attempt to return to the “old” – but will discover that all things have become new….and this new season has ushered in a change that’s irrevocable!

So, question…Are you just called…or are you willing and submitted enough to be classified as chosen? Think about it!!!

“……‘Many get invited; only a few make it.’” Matthew 22:14   (Message Bible)

Cooked to Perfection

“But He knows the way that I take [He has concern for it, appreciates, and pays attention to it]. When He has tried me, I shall come forth as refined gold [pure and luminous].”

                                                                                                                 Job 23:10 (AMP)

A master chef knows, whatever the dish; the finished product that they have prepared will have already experienced numerous “test runs”.  The master chef knows a forehand exactly what the end product will look like. They also are very knowledgeable concerning their masterpieces.  They are very well versed regarding each ingredient that they will use; as well as the time needed for preparation and cooking.  The “perfect” dish when presented will look nothing like it did during its prep or cooking times.  However, because the master chef already knows what the end product will be, they are not concerned about its appearance during the prep stages, nor during the cooking stages.  They know that “time” is a necessary component.  Therefore, it doesn’t matter how quickly the end product is needed – the “cooking time” can’t be decreased.  Each added ingredient must be given the proper amount of time to release its self and then to blend with the other ingredients. A master chef will patiently wait for their creation to be cooked to perfection.  Why? Because they already have a mental picture of what will appear as the end product.  So when they look at the array of ingredients before them– they can become excited; because they KNOW what the end result will be when it has finally been cooked to perfection.

God, as our master chef, already knows each and every one of us.  He knows exactly what He has placed on the inside of each of us.  Therefore, whatever you are now experiencing - you are in the process of becoming His masterpiece. You are in the process of being “cooked to perfection”!  If it seems as though your time in the oven has been long; be encouraged.  That is only an indication that your potential is of a greater magnitude than even you are aware of.  God will never permit a cake to burn or a roast to dry out!  We are all being cooked to perfection.  The fire seems intense; and it is.  Your journey may seem… just downright CRAZY!... AND IT IS!! Just…Be encouraged!! Sometimes we will often add “opposite” ingredients such as lemon and sugar to the same mixture – and think it normal!   Your journey is the same.  It will be composed of situations that don’t appear to be normal… and they aren’t!  Just be reassured that our Master Chef knows exactly which ingredients are needed to be blended into our lives that will cause us to “come forth as pure gold”!

So remember, some foods need to be simmered – while others can be stir-fried.  Some foods need to go through the process of being chopped; others diced; and still others pureed or mashed.  Whatever process you are now experiencing, just know that you are being prepared… and when the proper prep applications have been accomplished – you will then be placed in your cooking chamber…. And cooked to perfection!

 “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be:…..

 1 John 3:2

Transitioned  for Transformation

If change is to be effective, relevant and complete, it must occur in our minds.  Therefore, if I haven’t altered my thoughts, opinions and ideas concerning a certain matter, then my actions will not produce a permanent change.

According to the dictionary; transitioned means a process or period which something underwent a change and passes from one state, stage, form, or activity to another.   Therefore by its very nature the word “transitioned” bears witness that I have altered some component of my being.

I have not transitioned if everything about me has remained the same.  However as previously stated this process of transitioning begins in our minds.  My actions will only reflex the activity that my control center - my mind - has ordered. 

Transformation however, expresses the end product; a completed change. 

Today, in this season, God is especially using those who are permitting their minds to be transitioned by the indwelling power of Holy Ghost…. and through that transition, He has brought them into a state of transformation that cannot – will not ever be diminished!  It is these Saints who are “Transitioned for Transformation”. 

Although the renewing of my mind is a progressive process; once the transition has produced transformation in a given area – then, that area cannot ever be controlled by the enemy again.

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

        I now have the ability to treasure and to be entrusted with the “weightier” matters.

                                                                                                                     (Luke 16:11)

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

        My total allegiance is to no one but the Lord. (Matthew 22:37)

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

         I have no excuses for not walking in obedience to the call of the Lord on my life.

                                                                                                                      (Luke 11:28)

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

         I know no defeat – I don’t have the ability to, nor the knowledge of failure.

                                                                                                               (Philippians 4:13)

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

         I have not reached perfection in every area – but I am a great threat to the kingdom of darkness!                                                                                                  (Luke 10:19)

Above all; when I have been transitioned for transformation, I am now ready to:

  Receive the Manifestation of what God has promised;

  Reveal the Revelation of what God has shown to me .. and

  To be a living Demonstration… an Activist and an Advocate for God by adhering to His written        

  Word on a daily basis. 

Profanity in the Pulpit

I was asked the question by a few of my FBF (Facebook friends) if it was okay to use profanity in the pulpit.  They said many Pastors and Ministers are seemingly using that route now as an attention grabber; and it appears to be acceptable.

Well… I always attempt to use the Bible to substantiate any response that I may offer.  So the verse that immediately came to mind was Ephesians 4:29.  In this verse the word corrupt was translated from the Greek word “σαπρός” (sapros).  Profanity could definitely come in alignment with the definition of this word.

The Amplified Version states this verse as thus: “Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God’s favor) to those who hear it.”  Ephesians 4:29

.    

I also thought about the amount of prestige or reverence…. (Or should I say the lack of reverence) that we now place upon the presence of the Most High God!  Many standards that we now permit in our churches would not be tolerated by our judicial system, presidential cabinet nor permitted by the Judges in their courtrooms!    Therefore, should we permit the incorporation and the infiltration of such words and phrases to be accepted when we are standing as representatives of the Almighty God?  Should we release with ease into the atmosphere the negative effects and word curses which accompany some profane words?  Have we forgotten that when we stand before the people, we do so as the very orator for such a deity as Our God?    

We must never forget that we are in this world – but we as representatives of God do not have to partake of the measures expressed by the world in an attempt to convey God’s message.  We are in this world – but we must not conform to this world (Romans 12: 1&2).  We must always uphold the level of integrity and self-control that will permit us to never stray from “our ancient land mark”.  (Proverbs 22:28 “Don’t stealthily move back the boundary lines staked out long ago by your ancestors.” - The Message Bible)

God has said:

“Experiences are meant to produce maturity.  Your Relationship with Me produces Sensitivity.  Discipline produces Obedience.

My leaders must become more equipped and establish an ear to hear my voice if they are going to win, to triumph and to spoil the strategic plans of the enemy in these last days.  Lowering one’s standards to conform to what is pleasing to the flesh will never be as effective as standing on and trusting in the pure authority of My Word.  When My leaders spend time….the proper time in My presence – they will have a more influential presence of My Spirit.  Then they will be able to rely on My Spirit within them…. To flow from them…. to attract the people instead of using words that only excite the flesh.”

God has spoken; and it is so…. nothing else needs to be said!

Why Are You An “Asymptomatic Believer”?

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 anyone 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).

People can’t physically “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 successfully display every “symptom” stated in Mark 16.  Yet we permit the enemy to: fool, mislead, trick and deceive us into doubting who and whose we really are! 

In the medical arena; a disease is considered asymptomatic if a patient is a carrier of a disease or infection but experiences no symptoms. A condition might be asymptomatic if it fails to show the noticeable symptoms with which it is usually associated.  Therefore, many of us can be referred to as “Asymptomatic Believers”!  We may possess the title of a Believer; know and use the correct religious phrases; we can regularly attend worship services, pay our tithes and are generous in the giving of offerings; attend Bible Study….and Prayer Meeting!  However, where is your level of faith registering on the “faith-odometer”?  How many of the symptoms of the believer which are listed in Mark 16: 17 &18 are evident in your life?

So in reference to the initial question, “Why are you an asymptomatic believer?”…… 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.  Any excuse is 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 believers.  We must now become so “symptomatic” in our profession, confessions and actions; that the manifestation of every sign that is recorded in Mark 16 is becoming evident in our lives.

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!!

Be bold and very courageous!  Be persuaded and very confident!  Focus more on BEING who you really are…instead of just hiding behind your title!  You already have within you everything that you need to be that Believer which is mentioned in Mark 16.

So… the day of exposure is here!  Be determined to no longer be an Asymptomatic Believer. The baton has been given to you…..NOW…..what are you going to do with it???????

OH NO! Not This Time!!!

“Wisdom is the principle thing, therefore, get wisdom; and in all thy getting, get understanding”. Proverbs 4:7

Today we appear to be forever learning – but never gleaning the proper understanding.  The Lord desires for us to remember and to understand three things;

1. WHO He is
2. WHAT He is doing
3. WHY He is allowing us to encounter certain situations and circumstances.

Knowledge gives FACTS, but UNDERSTANDING permits me to properly apply the meanings of the facts that I’ve learned.  (…And all facts are not TRUTH!)  Many times we are experiencing the same situations over and over again.  This is usually because we haven’t gleaned the wisdom that’s necessary to understand WHO God is; WHAT He is doing and the WHY of His actions.  Therefore, when circumstances unexpectedly become adverse; we become frustrated, anxious, angry and/or discouraged.

Knowledge gives us Information but Understanding yields Principles; Knowledge impacts our memory but understanding impacts our reasoning; Knowledge builds scholars but Understanding creates teachers.

SO, this time when I’m confronted with the same situations….again… my response will reflect that I’m truly in a different place.  Since I don’t just have information but I now have an understanding of WHO, WHAT and WHY….I will emerge from every situation as “more than a conqueror”.  No matter what the opposition – I can tell the enemy..... OH NO – Not This Time!

In Mark 13:7 &8 in the amplified version

“⁷And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not get alarmed (troubled and frightened); it is necessary [that these things] take place, but the end is not yet.”

⁸For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines and calamities. This is but the beginning of the ^[a]intolerable anguish and suffering [only the first of the ^[b]birth pangs].

So when the next major calamity comes that shook us like “9 -11” did; when the next hurricane comes and wipes another island out to the seas; when the next Richter scale shattering earthquake surfaces;….our response will not be one of fear and frustration.  We will maintain our focus – and tell the enemy…OH NO – Not This Time!  My response and my reactions will declare to the enemy that I now understand the Who, What and the Why of God.

When sickness comes to visit again….because I now understand Isaiah 53:5 – I will stand and declare, OH NO.. Not This Time!

If finances become questionable, because I’m a tither and understand Malachi 3:11 - I can say OH NO.. Not This Time.

When Loneliness knocks at my door – I can open the door with Deuteronomy 31:6.

When disappointments and tribulations arise… Romans 8:38 & 39 will be my response… And Whatever the enemy may throw my way, because I now have the proper understanding….I will use my God given authority, which is always based in His Word; and boldly proclaim …OH NO.. Not This Time!

Someone summarized it this way:

One day heartaches will be over -  But Today we have God’s COMFORT,

One day pain will be no more, TODAY God is saying My GRACE is sufficient,

One day there will be no more burdens, but TODAY we have His Strength,

One day I will possess everything that I need, but TODAY Live by Faith,

One day I will understand EVERYTHING… BUT TODAY I TRUST His actions!

                                                                                                           (Author Unknown)

Yes.. Prayer is the KEY…FAITH unlocks the door….But a proper UNDERSTANDING will give me the ACCESS and the WISDOM to OPEN that door and allow me to tell the enemy… OH NO, NOT THIS TIME!

Don’t Settle For Less

“And be not conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.”  Romans 12:2

What achievement(s) do you highly value?  What are you striving to accomplish on a daily basis?  What targets are your arrows attempting to reach?   How many long and short term goals are ever before you?

Whatever venture you are striving to undertake or to complete – now is the time to endure and to press forward as never before.  Don’t become weary, don’t become stagnate… and by all means….  Don’t Settle for Less.

It appears that we have encompassed that mindset of the world which has caused us not to value who we are nor what we have been called to bring into manifestation. 

For example, we are settling for what brings happiness…. Instead of persevering for joy;

We are permitting our appetites (spiritual & natural) to be appeased or pacified…Instead of fulfilling their required necessities.  

We are popping too many pills … Instead of pulling our heads up from the pillows and praying our way through. 

We have permitted too many of the conveniences of modern technology to limit instead of enhancing our brain’s activity and ability!

So, ever so slowly, ever so subtly, we have begun to settle for the lesser qualities of life – instead of striving for better.  We have just “accepted” and become satisfied with whatever has come our way.  Therefore, for the most part we are living a life and lifestyle that is far more inferior to the desires of the Lord!  Our creative instincts are almost non-existent and for the most part, our lives are lacking the “greater”.   However, we must; as King’s Kids – begin or continue to refuse to settle for just “anything”.  We must keep our goals and aims focused on the wholesome and weightier principles of this life.

Begin to recapture the mindset in your daily activities that will not permit you to settle for less in any area of your life.   Simply because we are a joint heir with Christ – all of our needs are already met. We therefore don’t have to lower nor compromise our standards nor our expectations, nor our desires, nor goals nor  vision. Develop the mindset that I don’t have to settle for anything less and I won’t settle for less in any area of my life!

Reassure yourself.  Say, “The greater one lives on the inside of me…. Therefore I can no longer be comfortable settling for the “less”.  I also cannot become ignorant to the fact that iron does sharpen iron.”  So those who are content and relaxed in their “state of less”…. Don’t exhibit the qualities of iron and will dull instead of sharpen my being!

Decree the following.  As of today – I will begin to rid my mind, and my physical environment of everything that resembles the state of being “less”….. and permit true greatness to be my daily portion.   I will revamp my “bucket list”.  I’ll no longer “wish” but I will decree, declare, affirm, and announce that because the greater one truly does live on the inside of ME (I John 4:4)… I WILL NEVER, NEVER, NEVER. EVER again SETTLE FOR LESS!

“Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth forever.” 

                                                                                                                      Psalm 112:3

For A Cleaner Sweep, Get A NEW Broom

Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.

-2 Timothy 2:21

As we have entered a new month, a new season and this season of “fresh air”, It’s time to get a new broom. When was the last time that you purchased a new broom? 

If we are to thoroughly clean an area, we can’t use the same tools year, after year, after year. So in the natural, so in the realm of the spirit.  If we are going to get into those spiritual corners, we must get a new spiritual broom. 

What is a broom? One definition describes it as a cleaning tool consisting of stiff fibers.   Therefore, our spiritual broom also is composed of stiff, rigid and binding fibers….known as kingdom principles.

As we grow and mature in the realm of the spirit, we will discover that we must apply new and advanced principles.  We must get a “new spiritual broom”.

Our new broom will sweep in a fresh anointing, new revelations, new manifestations and an overall newness.

The state and condition of your personal physical environment, usually reflects your spiritual being.   There are times when our actions in the physical realm, will assist us to better relate to the spiritual realm.  Why not purchase a new broom in the physical?  Physically sweep through your house.  As you sweep, ask the Lord to reveal to you exactly what new kingdom principles you are now ready to implement into your life.

Remember, now is not the time to become comfortable….step it up….get a new broom…and sweep those areas that have been overlooked for years!

Laboring Requires Endurance

“Therefore endure hardness as a good soldier…… 2 Timothy 2:3

It’s Labor Day!! Today, as America focuses on those who have made contributions to the prosperity and economic strength of our nation; we should also remember those who have impacted and worked diligently within our lives in the realm of the Spirit.   Those Spiritual warriors who have laid the groundwork and foundation for our Spiritual stability.  They have taught us Not to Panic!  They have taught us to not fear the works of the enemy.  They have taught us that when adversity arises, to stand firm on the Word of the Lord  and remember that – Endurance is the key!!

As we continue to reflect on those who have labored, in the physical realm and in the realm of the spirit we can attest to the fact that they had to endure various attacks.   However, their endurance is an example to us that we must not become weary, keep our focus and PRESS forward – regardless.

The word press by its nature implies that opposition will occur.  Without opposition – there would be no need to press.    Listed below is the prayer that you have probably previously read entitled, “The Power to Press Beyond.”  Read it again, asking the Lord to increase your ability to focus more on His divine will for your life – and not on the attacks of the enemy.  In this era, the weak minded will not have the focus to endure! 

Just as on Labor Day we honor those who have “Labored” in the physical realm, the Lord will also honor those who have and are laboring for Him.

Power To Press Beyond

(Written by Apostle Claudia Boatwright ©2003)

 Father in Jesus’ name, I thank you for the innate force within me that prompts me to seek a deeper revelation of you.

For my only desire in pressing beyond this realm is to obtain a greater insight of you and your solemnness; thus enabling me to not walk on the surface, but to have available to me those hidden, partially revealed spiritual treasures that are vital at this time.  These “jewels” are required for me to excel and will afford me the opportunity to properly lead others.

Lord God, I thank you that I have learned to persevere and to press beyond the obstacles, the road blocks and the detour signs - the hidden snares designed to delay your divine will for my life.  Thank you for the courage to press; - that courage which is required to recognize and discern; to subdue and call to nought every demonic and satanic force sent to oppose me on every level.  I now know how to press through and not request that you remove from me difficult situations….. For I recognize that all of these have been foreordained for my advancement.

Since you have told me that the best is in the press, I will press into you at any cost.   I will press beyond the feelings of defeat, frustration, adversity and opposition. I will press beyond the spirits of despair, dejection and rejection.  I have learned that I must press beyond any of the feelings in my flesh, and rely only on what my spirit discerns from you. Then and then only will I maintain this realization that in my press, YOU will never deny me. 

So forgetting those things which are behind, I press.

Growing and still maturing in the process, I press.

Awaiting your divine intervention……..

I press, I press, I PRESS!!!

“Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.” Ephesians 6:13-18 (The Message Bible)

Praise God….Now?  Are You Serious?!!

^…….when the people gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed;……  Joshua 6:20

When do you feel is the best time to praise the Lord?  Well, believe it or not….your response to that question will reveal the level of your spiritual maturity!  Far too often our focus in difficult situations is geared towards the incorrect focal point.  In the times of adversity, we permit that dynamic trio; fear, doubt and unbelief, to make their grand appearance….Even returning for a curtain call!

We must always and alway (no “s”); remember that God has already – prior to the onset of our uncanny situations; made available to us the most powerful weapon that has ever existed.  Every living creature is equipped with this weapon.  Although, because many people use this weapon incorrectly its effectiveness is greatly diminished.  The weapon in question is our mouth.  With one’s mouth and its ability of articulation; we can declare the victory or defeat of an entire nation.  The Bible verifies such in Proverbs 18:21, by stating that death and life are in the power of the tongue. 

So back to the original question…. What’s the best time to praise God?   Well…When we obtain the ability to grasp the totality of God’s love for us – then we will be able to do a Psalm 34:1….and bless the Lord at all times.   We will understand that regardless to our current circumstances; He is only perfecting and grooming us into who He created us to be. 

So in the midst of every adverse occurrence; at the onset of every contrary wind; in the heat of every battle; and when you feel as though conditions couldn’t possibly get any worst…… these are the ideal times to open up your mouth and to give your God some praise!  We must never forget that the enemy’s game plan is to cause us to focus more on what we can see with our physical eye….. (which is temporal and subject to change);…than on the promises of God (which are eternal & immutable). 

Now, there is a method by which we will be able to maintain our focus in the midst of the chaos.  We must daily fortify, strengthen, and intensify our spirit man.  We must reprogram our actions.  We must in the times which are less stressful, reinforce our minds with positive confessions and prepare for the next attack…. Because it will come!  We all have heard someone blurt out a few “profane” words when they’ve become stressed or overwhelmed.  That same mouth can be trained and that mind disciplined to understand that God is yet working out EVERYTHING for our good.  Therefore, instead of cussing or cursing – we would be praising!

Lastly, remember that we are to praise God “IN” all things… not necessarily “FOR” all things. Praise is the weapon that is readily accessible to us and can travel with us wherever we desire it to.  Praise is that weapon that totally confuses the enemy…. And above all, praise is that weapon that acknowledges that God is still in control and that He is never going to leave us nor forsake us. 

In my former church, we sang a song entitled “Hallelujah Anyhow”.  The song tells us to hold our heads up high when life’s troubles come our way …. and say “Hallelujah Anyhow.  Another song was “Give Him The Praise”.  The refrain (or the vamp) said, “In the good times, praise His name, in the bad times do the same; in EVERYTHING, He’s the King of Kings; so give Him the praise.  Although they might not have realized it, but as the older saints sang those songs – they were instilling in their minds; and aligning their spirits, with the foundational principles which are required to successfully defeat every adverse situation.   They knew that the time to shout the greatest was in the midst of the battle – and not just at the end.

So… when you think… “Oh I just can’t praise God now”.  Yes…. I’m serious….. that is the very time when you MUST open your mouth and acknowledge Him to be the Lord of Lords.

When you are in the midst of a seemingly unbearable, unconquerable situation….Open your mouth and PRAISE The LORD!

When you have been disappointed….. Open your mouth and PRAISE The LORD!

When you are feeling disgusted or frustrated…… Open your mouth and PRAISE The LORD!

When you have been betrayed….. Open your mouth and PRAISE The LORD!

When sickness seems as though it just wants to plague your body and cause it not to come into an alignment with the Word of God……. Open your mouth and PRAISE The LORD!

WHY????  Because your praise will confuse the enemy…. And validate to him that you are still trusting in the Lord….REGARDLESS.  You are reminding the enemy that every diabolical occurrence that he has thrown/ or is throwing your way doesn’t have the power nor the authority to prosper (Isaiah 54:17)! ….And you are reminding the enemy and all of his cohorts that he and they can’t steal your praise!

 So …. at the very time when it would seem the most inopportune – GIVE GOD THE PRAISE…. And watch your walls begin to collapse!!!

It’s Manifestation Time!

     “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the treader of grapes him that soweth seed; and the mountains shall drop sweet wine, and all the hills shall melt.  And I will bring again the captivity of my people of Israel, and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine thereof; they shall also make gardens, and eat the fruit of them.   And I will plant them upon their land, and they shall no more be pulled up out of their land which I have given them, saith the Lord thy God."                                                                                                                Amos 9;13-15

I had read the following vision of a Prophet concerning the above verses.  The Prophet said in his vision he saw: “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 and remove every restraint that is restricting 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; especially in your approach to the dismantling of every diabolical device aimed in your direction.
• Expect an increase in productive relationships.
• Expect an increase in your territory; spiritual, physical, and mental.
• 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.
• Expect increase, increase, and increase!!!

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!   

“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)

It’s Only A Test

“But He knows the way that I take [and He pays attention to it]. When He has tried me, I will come forth as [refined] gold [pure and luminous].” Job 23:10 (AMP)

Simply put, whatever you are going through, is only a test.   We are all experiencing situations that are revealing the status of our current posture in the realm of the spirit.

The Bible mirrors numerous examples of people who when tested continued to stand for their conviction and commitment to the Lord.  We must remember that our testings are not to reveal anything to the Lord – because He’s omniscient.  Our testings are presented to us to reveal our growth or lack of it.  They are for our awareness and for the enemy. 

Many of our tests will prove to the enemy that we have grown in a given area.  The enemy can’t read our minds, therefore his only verification of our current status is what he can observe from our actions and spoken words.

Our testings are not presented by the Lord because He doesn’t love or have concern for us.  Quite the opposite!   He is love. Therefore, whatever situations that He places us in – are for our betterment.  I Corinthians 10:13 Reminds us that God will never permit us to be tempted in an area where we do not have the power, wisdom and stamina to excel.

Reflect on the examples of : Job’s Trials, Abraham’s Sacrifice, Peter Walking on Water and Jesus in Gethsemane.  All were tested, and all stood in the face of being tested.

So, stand in the knowledge and wisdom that you have already gleaned from the Holy Spirit. Pass your test. Remember, you are in the process of becoming perfected….as pure gold!

Don’t Permit Illegal Spiritual Relationships To Blind Side You!

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.  Matthew 7:15

Sometimes it takes us a while to realize that those who are among us are not who they initially appear to be.  Therefore, the Lord has to use drastic measures to bring such to our awareness

 Recently, I have been experiencing joint discomfort in my ring finger on my right hand.  Various remedies, ointments etc. were to no avail. The discomfort was so severe that there were instances when the discomfort would disturb my sleep.  I knew that it was not arthritis because that is covered in one of my daily confessions.  However, in the back of my head – I sensed that there was a deep meaning … that I was missing something and attempting to physically address a spiritual issue. 

Well, I finally received the revelation.  In the natural, a ring is placed on the ring finger on the left hand during various ceremonies.  (You can research the reasonings or ask me if you are not aware of the reason.)   However, my issue was with the ring finger on the right hand.   The Lord informed me that I had permitted a connection to a relationship, in the realm of the spirit – that He did not ordain! An illegal relationship – that had totally blind sided me!

Matthew 15:7, gives a direct warning that not everyone who seems spiritual or trustworthy actually is. We must discern beyond appearances.

We must in these last days be more cognizant of the fact that “all that glitters is not gold”. The warning is to be cautious and aware, yet still kind and pure in our dealings.

Matthew 10:16 advises us – “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves”.

Also, in these last days, we must keep our spiritual antenna active. Don’t mistake a spiritual alert, warning or signal for just a physical discomfort! Don’t assume every  symptom in the physical is what it appears to be. Seek for those hidden gems that are often overlooked!  Don’t be blind sided!!!!

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God.”                                    1 John 4:1

Be Who God Has Created You To Be!

“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Psalms 139:14

WARRIORS!!! Remember that you are uniquely, fearfully and wonderfully hand crafted by God. Therefore you must stand boldly; embrace your uniqueness….and not unconsciously imitate others.

God has given unto you a strategic battle plan - that can only be properly implemented by you. However, if you are not comfortable in being yourself - you will not be able to effectively invade the satanic data bases and be the effective warrior that God has designed you to be. There are diabolical plans of the enemy that continue to stand firm because many of us are not standing in our own uniqueness. Far too often, we are not fulfilling our God given assignments because we have unconsciously engulfed patterns, traditions and the like which are limiting OUR effectiveness.  We have seemed to embrace the notion that we must: walk like, talk like, preach like, prophesy like…. Bishop “so and so” or Pastor “so and so”.    We have failed to realize that those people are victorious in their giftings simply because they are adhering to their own uniqueness.  We will discover that our journey will become much easier once we learn how to walk in the footprints and leading of the Holy Spirit, instead of those of other saints!

Advancing towards maturity now demands that we stand our ground in the realm of the spirit and BOLDLY use the weapons that God has instilled within us!  Seek the face of God for the boldness to venture into the uncharted waters of your own life.  Refuse to remain the same. 

Growth demands some form of alteration.  Anything that is alive grows and experiences some type of change.  Therefore, if everything: your prayer life; your sense of discernment; your tolerance level; your love and concern for the homeless, imprisoned, etc…. if everything has remained the same day after day, month after month year after year…. You should question your growth in the realm of the spirit.  You should question whether you have tapped into your God given uniqueness.  You should question whether you are advancing towards being that threat to the kingdom of darkness that you were created to be!

Learn to be satisfied with WHO you are…..but not WHERE you are!  God has carefully and wisely created you ….to be you.  Embrace who you are… and remember; No one can perfect you ….. At being you….. Except you!

“But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God’s instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you - from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted.”

 I Peter 2:9 & 10 (The Message Bible)

It’s The Season of FRESH AIR

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1

This morning while in prayer, the Lord specifically said, “Fresh Air”.  So after prayer, I began to do a little research on a new and different approach for me, concerning Fresh Air.

As I pondered, I began to correlate Fresh Air to freedom.  When we inhale and exhale in the natural, it provides feelings of liberation and openness. In the realm of the Spirit, God offers us liberation.  Liberation from former mind sets, former relationships, and entanglements that we were not even aware of!   Even nature today is allowing us to breathe freely once again.  We can become cognizant of the fact that an abrupt change has occurred – permitting us to inhale Fresh Air!

Don’t “kick against the pricks”!  We can find encouragement in knowing that God has decreed this season of Fresh Air to usher in a sea of freedom. His Spirit empowers us to walk in that freedom daily.

Philippians 2:15-16 says, "Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God".

Embrace this Fresh Air. Be determined to not become entangled again in the stagnation that the enemy, this world or even your own limitations may attempt to impose upon you. 

Remember…He whom the Son has set free is free indeed. 

You are free, stay free by inhaling every concept that this Fresh Air is blowing in your direction!

Enrich Yourself Through

Right Connections

Be honest in your judgment and do not decide at a glance (superficially and by appearances); but judge fairly and righteously.                                                 John 7:24 Amplified Version

As we search throughout the scriptures, we can observe that the relationships which people were involved in were of grave importance.  Therefore we must realize the significance of becoming associated with and connected to the right people. 

Connections should be for the purpose of increase.  Therefore I should be either the provider (being an asset to someone’s life) or the receiver (reaping a benefit) – but increase is a must.  Wrong, non-productive relationships are considered one of those “weights which does so easily beset us” (Hebrews 12:1). 

So let’s consider some of our connections.  What do our: friends, acquaintances, religious and secular group memberships reveal?  Are there any connections where I am currently not being increased – or increasing someone else?  Some connections are temporary; seasonal - while others maintain the ability to perpetually be an asset in some fashion.   When we don’t know the purpose for a relationship, nor have considered its nature – we will attempt to cling on to and transform those “passing connections” into permanent relationships.

We are in the era now where everyone seems to want to “network”. Everywhere you go people want to connect. This can be advantageous as well as detrimental.   We must be on our spiritual guard at all times and realize that every “good connection” may not be a “God connection”. 

Then there are those connections that go “against the grain” of many in Christendom.  There may be times when the Lord will connect you to someone (s); involved in specific sins or unacceptable lifestyles… for the sake of assisting them to know Him. (Note: Don’t misunderstand! We are to NEVER become INVOLVED in anything that is contrary to the Word of God.  The Lord will NEVER lead you into any area where you will be tempted to sin or in an area where you have not been totally delivered.)

I would like to encourage you to listen to the voice of the Lord.  Far too often some Christians feel as though they are too “holy” to be connected to or associated with various groups of people;  even for the sake of ministry.  My only response is this: If someone is in darkness, and you have a light, how can they come out of the darkness if you refuse to go to them and shine your light? Remember we are instructed to let our lights shine (Matthew 5:16).  How will they find the correct path out of their darkness?  The blind can’t lead the blind!  Now I’m not condoning, permitting or agreeing with sin….. Sin is sin and is not to be excused nor overlooked.  However, we should never feel as though we are too “anointed” to be connected with those to whom God leads us to.  Nor should we attempt to discourage those who are being used of the Lord in areas where we are not comfortable or called to minister in.  

In these last days; the Lord needs to connect those Saints who have a true love for Him … and are willing to share that love… to those who are still struggling in various areas.

God has given to us the ability to be sociable creatures.  We therefore need connections.  However, we must be certain that every connection will be constructive and offer increase, integrity, stamina... and above all… receive a stamp of approval from the Lord.

 “Therefore encourage one another and build one …….”   I Thessalonians 5:11a

Virtues of Victory

“…….. and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.”

                                                                                                      I John 5:4

What is victory?  How is it determined?  Listed below are some of the foundational concepts or the what I refer to as my “Virtues of Victory”.

V – Vision - To be victorious I must have a vision; a mental image of my future state.

 “Where there is no vision, the people perish” Proverbs 29:18

I -   Intensify – To intensify is to exhibit “increase” by: enhancing, strengthening and deepening.

 Therefore, to be victorious I must not cease to eagerly, aggressively, powerfully intensify my efforts in every area of my life.  However not working harder – but smarter!

                 “ But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make  progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit;  Jude 20  (AMP)

C -    Concentrate – To ponder; to muse; to deliberate.  Concentration requires an ability to focus.  Victory is never accomplished by one who has loss their ability to maintain their focus.

                “And SET your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth.”   Colossians 3:2

T -    Trust – Confidence or conviction.  To gain total victory, I must solidify my trust channels from the inside out.

                “Don’t put your life in the hands of experts who know nothing of life, of salvation life.”     Psalm 146:3 (MSG).  Also  Proverbs 20:7; 3:5

O -   Opposition – Hostile or contrary action or condition.   Except the fact that there will always  be oppositions; some will edify, some will challenge and all which emanate from the kingdom of darkness are sent to destroy.  However.. every opposition will produce  victory… if permitted to run its course!

                “....In this world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

R –   Rules - No task in life is ever accomplished w/o abiding by the established guidelines. To be victorious; I must know the rules….and obey them.

    Romans 12:1-5 (ESV); Proverbs 4:7; Titus 3:1

Y -   Yoked -   Joined, fasten to, connected to.  To be victorious I must remain free of any restrictive burden; and only become yoked to those things that will permit the furtherance of God’s plan and purposes for my life.

               “….Let us lay aside every weight..” Hebrews 12:1

When we physically observe the word victory, we will notice that it begins with a “v” and ends with a “y”.   The letter “y” is a “v” that has been enhanced.  At the conclusion of every victory, we will have been increased to some degree.

We can also observe that the shape of the letter “y” reminds us of a fork in the road.  At the end of every victory – we stand at a fork in the road.  We have to make a decision.  We must decide whether to prepare for the next level and advance forward.... or to become satisfied with our present accomplishment and remain at that place.  The Lord always requires that we advance.   The ability to continually walk in a state of victory is achieved, when I decide to never become satisfied with my current achievements – but to always strive for an added dimension of greatness.

Paul explained it like this: “Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13 & 14

So again I ask, “What are some of the virtues of VICTORY”?  The answer: The ability to expand my Vision; to aggressively Intensify every area of my life; to maintain my Concentration; to continually build and fortify my Trust channels; to expect Opposition, to obey the Rules and to be Yoked to Kingdom Principles!

And it is so!!

….. And you will never THIRST again!

“but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again” John 4:14a

In recent years, the spirit of man has increasingly become aware of the fact that there is a lack in a vital area.   We have become conscious of the reality that we have within us an area that seems to have an unquenchable thirst.   We have a constant longing for fulfillment.    As always, the spirit of pride has persuaded us to think that we have the perfect answer! 

So, as the end of time as we know it draws nigh, our spirits (saved or unsaved) are sensing a global spiritual lack of the presence of God.  Our spirits can even detect the abnormal occurrences that nature is revealing.  We can “feel” that we need something – which is fantastic!  However our solution is inadequate.  Man has attempted to satisfy a spiritual necessity with a physical device.

We have chosen the correct element – but in the wrong form!

Wherever we go (at least here in America), what do we see in the possession of most people –  even during the winter season?  The rich, the poor; the young, the old; blue collar, white collar – EVERYONE seems to feel the need to have one of these in their possession – wherever they go.  What is it?  It’s their bottle of water!  Many people will not leave home without it!

Have you ever questioned where this notion of an inseparable water bottle has surfaced?  Now of course we are aware of our body’s natural requirement for water – especially during times of exertion. However, we must wonder if this obsession with the constant need of physical water is an attempt to satisfy in the natural what can only be fulfilled in the realm of the spirit.   Is this a strategic ploy from the enemy to divert our attention from the real issue?   Or do we so lack the ability to discipline our flesh that we must revert to the scenario of a toddler and their “sippee cup”?  Whatever the answer, we can all (well… some of us) remember the days when people so respected the Lord and the house of the Lord, that they would never bring anything to eat or to drink into the worship service.  People would rarely even give the babies a bottle. Why? Because everyone was taught to respect the presence of the Lord, and the house of the Lord…..and not to focus on themselves but on the Lord.  However, now we aren’t as disciplined – the church and the government have strayed from “the ancient landmark” (Proverbs 22:28).  As a result, now we - our entire nation - have undeveloped, underdeveloped, undisciplined spirits – that have a longing and a thirst…… that we are attempting to satisfy with physical water.

To wrap this up (because there is a lot more that could be added concerning the physical vs. the spiritual water) – I’ll say this, when we begin to appease our spirit man with that spiritual water, then and only then we will be totally satisfied and gratified.  However, above all, God will be glorified, His Spirit edified and His presence magnified in our lives.

Her Tears, Her Hair, Her Kiss

“….. And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.”

                                                                                                                       Luke 7:38

When we refer to the story in Luke 7:38, our focus is usually drawn to the alabaster box and the oil therein.  However, today (Because we do things differently), we will briefly draw our attention to a few other key factors.

Most people aren’t sure WHO this “nameless” woman (Mary) was in the story – however, we all know WHAT she did.  This brings us to our first point.  Strive to be motivated from a pure heart of submission and gratitude; then your WORKS will make a perpetual impact for generations to come.  “Who” you are may be forgotten – but “What” you do will leave an indelible imprint in the sands of time.

Her Tears –When we seek to understand the shedding of tears, we could embark upon an in-depth study.  However, tears are often synonymous with brokenness and/or extreme gratefulness.  Such was the state of the woman in our story.

Her Hair - In Biblical days, the women of this culture took great pride in their hair and would often create and arrange it into various styles.   They exhibited a great deal of maintenance into it and definitely regarded it as their glory.

Now let’s think about “The Kiss”.  Her kiss. Her kiss was symbolic of her final expression of submission, compassion, adoration, gratitude and closure. 

The washing of Jesus’ feet, although symbolic in nature; examples to us an array of expressions which can greatly enhance our relationship with the Lord.  The three main examples for today are:

1. The Tears - We must approach the Lord in a state of brokenness, submission and repentance.
2. The Hair - Nothing that belongs to us, nothing that we possess – nothing, should we withhold from the Lord.  Whatever we take pride in, whatever we glory in; should willingly be used for Him.
3. The Kiss - Our mouth must remain at the feet of Jesus. Whatever we kiss (place our stamp of approval on) must come into an alignment with the walk of Christ.  Our kiss must not be one of betrayal…. but a signal or an expression which has been motivated by an inward conviction and now resonate from a heart of submission.

Therefore, because of our internal brokenness, and because we’ve surrendered our dearest possession to the Lord, He will receive what we affirm with our mouth.   

The tears, the hair, the kiss.  God is requiring that we are broken to the extent that we produce tears; That we will withhold nothing that we deem precious from Him and that we will only apply the symbol of extreme love, humility and gratitude from a heart of a servant.

So…. when we humbly bow; when we’ve kissed the feet of Jesus, we are now positioned to be totally used of Him to make that endtime, undeniable, unforgettable impact.  The type of impact that will cause an elevation in the level of our faith and produce the type of faith that will birth the miracles, signs and wonders which will get the attention of the saved, the submission of the unsaved and the obedience of the unchurched!

(On another note: We always remember that Jesus washed the feet of His disciples – but we must also remember that He permitted His feet to be washed as well!)