Challenge of the Day!!!

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”         John 13:34, 35

I recently visited a church where the congregation sang an awesome love song to the Lord.  When I left, the Lord said to me, “If half of the people who SANG about their love for me actually SHOWED that love, then the world would truly know who I am”.  He went on to say how in most instances we really don’t know how to express authentic love.  This is because what we call love is not true love, but usually some warped expression that has been passed on to us by others who were also unclear on the definition of love.  He said, “It’s so simple!  I’ve shown you exactly what love is and even had it penned in I Corinthians 13.” 

Sadly to say….normally, we will show expressions of what we call love to those to whom we think or feel are deserving of it.  Or to those who: look, sound, and smell like us!  …Those who shop where we shop, eat where we eat and drive the vehicles complimentary to ours.  Now don’t misunderstand – it isn’t wrong to enjoy the “finer things” in this life.  However, it’s now time to realize and begin to comprehend the full essence of God’s unconditional, uncompromising, “no holds barred”, love for us.  It’s time for you to realize that God needs to use you to extend to others the type of love that He has shown to you.  It’s time too for us to expand our mindset, slay that demonic spirit of pride, and begin to be an example of the love that we sing about.

So the mission for today (Should you decide to accept it!) …. is to SHOW an expression of unconditional love to someone that you normally would not consider.   Ask the Holy Spirit to work out all of the details….and He will.  He is just waiting for a “Yes” from you.  Then, daily ask the Lord to use you, as the channel through which He can show this dying chaotic world who He really is.  People need to know that all is not lost….. Because we have a God who is still the Lord over every situation and circumstance…. and who loves them unconditionally!  

Yes, it’s okay to sing about the love of the Lord…. And that appeases us.  However, it’s far better to SHOW His love…..and that pleases Him!

 “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” Romans 12:9-11 (ESV)

(Read: I Corinthians 13 in the Amplified Version and in The Message Bible)

The Big Fish Are in The Deep Waters!

Therefore….It’s Time To Move Your Anchor….Again!!!

………… Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. Luke 5:4

The word for today is one of encouragement and congratulations.  For the Lord has said that it doesn’t matter who you are; if you’ve committed yourself to advancing your walk with him - you are to be commended.  You’ve successfully conquered all that the enemy has thrown upon you.  You’ve excelled on your current level and within your current dimension.  The time has now come for you to advance your spiritual walk into your uncharted waters.  However, bear in mind that promotion is a double sided coin.  While we ascend to the highest plateau in one dimension; upon reaching that next dimension, we are once again on the ground level. 

In the natural, we can usually realize our growth and know when we have made the necessary accomplishments which are required for advancement.  However, far too often in the realm of the Spirit we don’t recognize the signs.   

As you continue to embark upon your new season, move your anchor into deeper waters.  The deeper waters will produce those boisterous waves and the unpredictable undercurrents.   But you are now ready to ride out the waves while maintaining your focus in the midst of every storm.   Navigating through the deep waters will prove to be very advantageous.   So launch out into the deep.  Stretch your faith!  One will never receive mountain moving faith or produce “a prison door releasing praise”, while routing a course through shallow waters.

Leaders! (and potential leaders) Don’t permit the “spirit of passivity” to become a comfort zone.  This spirit has begun to occupy the seats in our churches simply because WE are not moving our anchors. WE must continue to take the proper measures to advance ourselves, if we are to lead those whom have been entrusted to us to the next level and to the next dimension within each new level.

Consider this:

Have your church services become so “routine” that they fail to permit the move of the Holy Ghost

Then it's time to move your anchor!

Note: Remember, an emotionally charged service is not necessarily the evidence that the Holy Ghost is at work!  

Are souls no longer receiving the conviction of the Holy Ghost?  

Then it's time to move your anchor!

Are people coming in and leaving the services, still unbroken under the anointing of the Holy Ghost?  

Then it's time to move your anchor.

Lastly, remember.. the deep waters are not heavily populated.  Don’t become overly concerned about those who are not ready to accompany you.   Jehovah Shamah will alway (no “s”) and always be there!

Therefore:

1. Seek the face of God in fasting and prayer for divine revelations, wisdom and power.  Maintain your focus and permit your fasting and praying to be purpose driven.
2. Then... Pick up your anchor.  Uproot and carefully weed out every hindering spirit. Wisdom is vital!
3. Launch out into the deeper waters by elevating your level of expectation, by embracing instead of avoiding difficult situations, and by asking God to uniquely use you to manifest or to give birth to a level of faith that has no limits. Move forward cautiously but not fearfully.
4. Watch as the manifestation of God’s promises become a part of your daily walk.

Saints! Move your anchor and allow God to prove himself faithful to you and the ministry.  (Even if you are not the Pastor or one of the ministry leaders – if you move your anchor and begin to launch your spiritual walk into deeper waters – you will glean the ability to greatly impact your entire church or ministry!)

This is the season….. Now is the time…. And YOU are the channel!

Keep Your Water Shaft Unpolluted

“David said on that day, Whoever smites the Jebusites, let him get up through the water shaft and smite the lame and the blind who are detested by David’s soul….”   2 Samuel 5:8 (Amplified)

As we read this story about the capture of Jerusalem from the Jebusites we will find that King David had a strategy.  This reminds us that whenever we are going to be victorious in any type of confrontation – we must first have a strategic plan. Bear in mind that our adversary isn’t powerful nor a genius - but he is strategic and tenacious. 

David’s plan was to use the water shaft. A water shaft was an underground conduit for bringing water from a spring into a city. David knew that the water shaft would give him the access into the city – yet give him the ability to arrive undetected.  David didn’t attempt to devise a new method to gain access – he just used what was already available.  

What is the water shaft in your life?  What is the source in your life that keeps your soul, your mind and your spirit refreshed?  Whatever the source, we must make certain that our personal water shaft remains free from debris.  We can’t afford to permit our water shaft to become clogged nor to circulate polluted water.

The enemy will use whatever access is available to gain entrance. He will try to poison your water shaft.  He will try to clog up your water shaft.   By any means necessary… he still wants access to kill, steal and destroy. He will use your eye gate, ear gate, etc. to gain an access to pollute your water shaft. 

You see…Water is one of those resources that our bodies need on a regular basis.  Both our physical and spiritual bodies need a fresh supply of water on a daily basis.   Our natural body is composed of mostly water.  Statistics have revealed that our bodies are more than 60 percent water. Blood is 92 percent water, the brain and muscles are 75 percent water, and bones are about 22 percent water.  A human can survive for a month or more without eating food, but only a week or so without drinking water!

So in the natural – so in the spiritual.  It is vital that our spiritual bodies receive water – that living water…. in order to be effective. So by any means necessary – keep your water shaft unpolluted. 

Daily maintenance is a dire necessity.   Ask the Lord for a sharpened and a keener discernment with the ability to detect the enemy while he is yet afar off! 

We have to govern and disinfect our water shaft constantly!  The water is pure because it is flowing directly from the throne of God.  However, ask yourself the following.  Am “I” permitting my water shaft to become contaminated because “I” am not maintaining a DAILY regimen of spiritual cleansing?   Am “I” the cause of someone else receiving contaminated water because my water shaft is filthy with the ideologies, concepts and precepts of the world?  Am “I” yielding my ear gate to music that is not structured and inspired by God?  Far too often we, the body of Christ will attempt to justify and legalize anything that we desire.  Old things MUST remain in the past… and we MUST receive all things new – if we are going to have the ability to successfully stand in these last days.   We cannot permit our souls to find contentment in the pleasures of the world IF we want our water shaft to remain clean and unpolluted.

The Bible states that there shall be many in the last days that will come and DECEIVE….  Warriors – don’t be deceived.  Don’t permit your spirit man to feed on music, movies, reading materials, etc. that are not ordained of God.  Just because someone may verbally “SAY” that they belong to the Lord – doesn’t make it so.   Remember that music is generated from the soul and spirit of a person.  Therefore, the proof will be in the pudding!  It’s all or nothing – anything that is lukewarm…. God will spew out… and so should we! Again…. if I am going to keep my water shaft in the condition that is satisfactory to the Lord – then I must “step up my game”, become more focused and remove any “junk” that is attempting to clog or pollute my water shaft.

Remember: It’s the “little” foxes that spoil the vine…. So it only takes one small action, one gate left unprotected, one small breach in the wall….. to permit an access to your water shaft…. Which can lead to the potential of your entire water shaft becoming polluted!

There’s Been A Shipwreck….

                 Just Hold On To Your Broken Pieces

“But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.”   Acts 27:43 & 44 (Read the entire chapter for better insight)

 There are times when, as Paul, we are always embarking upon some type of voyage or challenge where our “ship” becomes totally destroyed.   However we must remember one concept: There will always be fragments to gather.  So in the midst of your worst devastation – Hold on to your broken pieces!   If you hold on….and don’t quit……. And don’t become discouraged…You will be victorious.

We must also remember that Psalm 34:19 tells us that many are the afflictions of the righteous – BUT the Lord WILL deliver us out of them all. Afflictions refer to something that causes pain or suffering; whether physical or mental.   Paul was afflicted on numerous occasions – but he managed to flee safety every time because he kept his focus, and learned to hold on to his broken pieces.  As he stated in II Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;……”.

I’m reminded of an old song that said, “I’m so glad, trouble don’t’ last always”.   So as I await God’s divine intervention….. I must remember that God is able to do just what he said he would do, He's gonna fulfill every promise to me.  I can’t give up on God, cause he won't give up on me….He’s Able!!!!

Therefore…..I’ll hold to God’s unchanging hand,…… and Build My Hopes On Things Eternal….. and continue Standing on the Promises of Christ my king…..  and Look ever to Jesus; He Will Carry Me Through! (I just love those hymns!)

Therefore, above all; I MUST remember to never, never let go of my broken pieces – for they’ll glide me safely to the shore!

Why Do You Do What You Do?

Do You Have Clean Hands….AND a Pure Heart?

……..Who may stand in his holy place?  The one who has clean hands and a pure heart… Psalm 24:3 & 4

One of the prerequisites to maintaining a proper relationship with the Lord is for us to regularly monitor our actions AND our motives.  The above scripture acknowledges the importance of both of these qualities.

There are many instances when people have asked if doing certain things will cause them to go to hell.  However, while our eternal state is of great importance – our daily walk is of equal relevance.   My daily walk as a Christian will establish one of two points.  It will verify that I sincerely love the Lord – more than I love myself.  Or it will confirm that although I have acknowledged Christ as my Savior; I have not matured in my relationship with Him to the extent that He is the “Lord”: of my life.

The statement “clean hands”; above the obvious, is also making a reference to those things that we are involved or associated with.  We also must be certain that we have not become members of various organizations (especially those of you who are in college) whose origin is demonic.  There are several groups who are accomplishing much within in our communities and making a great impact.   However, their real motive is to get you to become connected with them.  Therefore, by doing so, you have willingly given satan an access.

A “pure heart” reflects my intentions.  If my actions are correct – but my reasonings which support my actions are not resonating from the character qualities of the throne of God – then I am operating from a place of deceit, deception and dishonesty.  My actions also must not be the results of: the spirit of fear, past feelings of rejection, anger, pride etc.

Colossians 3:17 states, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

The word clean refers to the state of …while the word purity refers to the composition of.  Both are of grave importance to our ability to function successfully in our daily walk – as well as to our relationship with the Lord and His ability to use us effectively.

A pure heart is a heart in which the Holy Spirit has free reign; where He can manifest the fruit of the spirit; and a heart that has been guarded ……and protected from diabolical or wicked guidelines.

Clean hands also refer to our works. Are our gifts being used in unpolluted and uncontaminated manners?  Are we utilizing the proper methods to properly cultivate our gifts… hence producing “clean” and holy representations? 

Today, God is calling us to a greater place of discipline. A state that requires us to be more authentic than in days past. I often hear people in the body of Christ say, “Well, no one is perfect”.   This is true, however, the Lord is calling us to strive towards living a lifestyle that is in accords with His kingdom principles.  He is still requiring of us to be effective and to not make excuses for our lack of discipline that governs our lives year after year.

To have clean hands and a pure heart will assure us of the ability to excel in our effectiveness against every diabolical device which may be hurled at us.  This level of effectiveness will not just produce a “Church Service Emotional High”; but will manifest deliverance, change and “Fruit that will remain”(John 15:16)!

Why Do You Do What You Do?

Do You Have Clean Hands….AND a Pure Heart?

……..Who may stand in his holy place?  The one who has clean hands and a pure heart…

Psalm 24:3 & 4

One of the prerequisites to maintaining a proper relationship with the Lord is for us to regularly monitor our actions AND our motives.  The above scripture acknowledges the importance of both of these qualities.

There are many instances when people have asked if doing certain things will cause them to go to hell.  However, while our eternal state is of great importance – our daily walk is of equal relevance.   My daily walk as a Christian will establish one of two points.  It will verify that I sincerely love the Lord – more than I love myself.  Or it will confirm that although I have acknowledged Christ as my Savior; I have not matured in my relationship with Him to the extent that He is the “Lord”: of my life.

The statement “clean hands”; above the obvious, is also making a reference to those things that we are involved or associated with.  We also must be certain that we have not become members of various organizations (especially those of you who are in college) whose origin is demonic.  There are several groups who are accomplishing much within in our communities and making a great impact.   However, their real motive is to get you to become connected with them.  Therefore, by doing so, you have willingly given satan an access.

A “pure heart” reflects my intentions.  If my actions are correct – but my reasonings which support my actions are not resonating from the character qualities of the throne of God – then I am operating from a place of deceit, deception and dishonesty.  My actions also must not be the results of: the spirit of fear, past feelings of rejection, anger, pride etc.

Colossians 3:17 states, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

The word clean refers to the state of …while the word purity refers to the composition of.  Both are of grave importance to our ability to function successfully in our daily walk – as well as to our relationship with the Lord and His ability to use us effectively.

A pure heart is a heart in which the Holy Spirit has free reign; where He can manifest the fruit of the spirit; and a heart that has been guarded ……and protected from diabolical or wicked guidelines.

Clean hands also refer to our works. Are our gifts being used in unpolluted and uncontaminated manners?  Are we utilizing the proper methods to properly cultivate our gifts… hence producing “clean” and holy representations? 

Today, God is calling us to a greater place of discipline. A state that requires us to be more authentic than in days past. I often hear people in the body of Christ say, “Well, no one is perfect”.   This is true, however, the Lord is calling us to strive towards living a lifestyle that is in accords with His kingdom principles.  He is still requiring of us to be effective and to not make excuses for our lack of discipline that governs our lives year after year.

To have clean hands and a pure heart will assure us of the ability to excel in our effectiveness against every diabolical device which may be hurled at us.  This level of effectiveness will not just produce a “Church Service Emotional High”; but will manifest deliverance, change and “Fruit that will remain”(John 15:16)!

….Any Wicked Way

^“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139: 23 & 24

When I consider the word wicked, I often refer to wicker furniture.  What differentiates this type of furniture is the fact that it has been uniquely processed.  Wicker refers to the weaving process that the material has under gone.  So wicker furniture has been woven in a way that will produce a certain effect.

Far too often our hearts have been interwoven with concepts, motives, ideologies, etc. which have produced in us a wickered or wicked way.  We have – in many instances unknowingly – been indoctrinated by traditions, rituals, and the like which have led us down the path to bondage.  We have within us areas which are still harboring the spirits of: anger, deceit, and fear.  Pride is still on board and has intricately been woven into our hearts causing us to unknowingly “bow” to various idols.   

Of course, none of us have erected ancient day idols in our homes; but what is worst is the fact that we have them within our hearts!   We, on many occasions; establish, pay homage to, and hold in too high esteem the reverence for “people, places and things” over our relationship with our God. A reverential respect and fear of God has not taken its rightful position within our hearts.    

The true revelation of all that is within our hearts, will only be produced by an illumination from the Holy Spirit.  So on a personal level; I need to sincerely seek the face of the Lord, and ask Him to reveal any wicked or wickered way that is within me.  Then I must learn to succumb to His leading as He directs me to the path which will allow me to obtain a renewed heart – totally submitted and committed for His use.

“Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about; See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong - then guide me on the road to eternal life.” Psalm 139: 23 -24 (The Message Bible)

Let’s Compare…..

The Centipede & The Christian

Read: I Corinthians 12:12-26

Have you ever considered a centipede?  Probably not. However the Lord had instructed me to do a little research on them.  After which, He instructed me to prepare a comparison between the similarities of the centipede and the endtime Saints.  (Set aside some time to do the same.  I’m sure that it will prove to be very advantageous to your ministry or your Christian walk.)

As we speak, the enemy is devising a fast approaching army that will secrete a very painful poisonous venom like that which can be ejected from the centipede.  Unlike the scorpion, but like the centipede. (Compare the two.)  This venom is secreted from the first set of legs on the centipede.  In our ministries, far too often our “front legs” have no venom.  Our front line of defense is composed of those who are novice, and unprepared to stand effectively against the blows of the enemy.  We can no longer afford to voluntarily give the adversary an entrance and an access to us simply because we have not established our perimeter with those who are “seasoned” enough and wise enough to be able to effectively ward off his attacks.

Next, each section of the centipede’s body is equipped with a set of 2 legs. (Side bar: Didn’t Christ send out His disciples in groups of 2?)  Some sections of the centipede’s body have less than 20 legs; while others have more than 300.  Nevertheless, it glides smoothly because each set of legs carries its own weight!  

We must ourselves…. and we must equip others to carry their own weight by effectively using their God given talents and abilities.   No longer should we assign people to positions where they are not called - just for the sake of filling a position.  We also, must equip ourselves to become more reliant upon the Holy Ghost and not on other people to carry us.   Those of you who are not assuming leadership positions – yet – should not permit someone to place you into a given position that you know you are not called to.  Not an endtime strategy!

Lastly, each set of legs on the centipede is made a little shorter than the set in front of it.  This depicts order.  Many of our churches are not making an effective impact because they have not been established according to the apostolic order that God mandated for His church.   (I’m not referring to the Apostolic Denomination.)

Centipedes are primarily hunters.  Once it has found its prey; it will usually wrap itself around the prey, inject it with venom and wait for the venom to take effect before consuming it. 

We have been instructed to go into the hedges and the highways looking for the unsaved.  When we have found them – then we as the body of Christ are to wrap ourselves around them and to show them the  powerful “venom” of the love of God “that is able to cover” them.

Much more can be said about the centipede and the body of Christ.  However, I’ll conclude by saying….

Remember:  Just as there are over 8,000 species of the centipede; we being many members, are just one species - one body.  Our ultimate goal should be to stand, and demonstration to the world, that whatever the attack, we as the body of Christ will remain unified ….

 Because the Lord has already prepared us…the body of Christ… to be His  Triumphant Church.

Think Outside of the Box…

Because The Details Matter

In the beginning, God CREATED….. Genesis 1:1

The Lord our God is a God of who is greatly concerned about the details.  Details reveal and enhance the complexity of a substance.  The details also reveal the complexity of the creator of that substance.  In other words, they also shed a light on the in-depthness or the simplicity of the mind of the creator   Therefore, the more detailed a: thought, concept, production or object – the more it displays the intricacy of the mind of the one who has produced it.

We must always remember that every attack that we encounter is directed towards our minds.  So, because every attack is aimed at the mind; we must continually guard our minds.  Our minds must be protected from whatever or whomever may attempt to: disable, disallow, demolish, discourage, stomp out, cage in, cancel and bring to nought…. our God given gift of creativity. 

Why do people perish without a vision?  One of the reasons is because the manifestation of their vision is the end result of what their minds have had an ability to create.  When we lose or don’t develop a vision; we are not permitting our minds to reproduce.  Our minds lose the ability to function as that of our Father God; that master creator!  We fail to use those components of our DNA that are identical (in composition but not in magnitude) to His.

Why are demonic influences really directed towards our minds?  In addition to the obvious; we can’t rule out the notion that demonic influences also attempt to override our creativity.  For an example, if the enemy can cause someone to think that they have no victory in a given situation – then they will never hear the voice of the Holy Spirit when He attempts to show them how to CREATE a way of escape! 

God has created man with a free will.  However, the enemy wants to override God’s plan, and to control our minds.  Witchcraft is simply a demonic influence that attempts to do what God himself won’t do….. And that is to suppress our creativity and to control our minds by domination, manipulation and humiliation!

Therefore, every detail does matter…..Simply because every detail reveals another dimension of the complexity of our awesome, God!

So dare to be different! Permit your spirit to be liberated and available to produce what God has given unto you to reveal for this season.  Age is not a criteria – God still desires to use your mind to create devices and avenues for such a time as this. Then we will have the ability to use them to manifest the exposure to endtime: strategies, inventions, solutions etc.. God is waiting to catapult your level of creativity to a dimension that you have not previously known. However… He needs you to be more creative  -  and to think “outside of the box”.   

Trust God….every detail does matter.  Above all…every “unexpressed” detail, may be that missing link needed, to successfully reign as an endtime warrior!

“Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous--how well I know it.”  Psalm 139:14 (NLT)

Did You Hear That?

 “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

Today the Lord, our Baal Perazim (the God of Breakthrough) is 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. 

When reading this story in I Chronicles (or II Samuel) we discovered that Baal Perazim required  David’s response  to be quick and at precisely the right time.  Let’s consider David’s responsibility.

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!  For example, David was instructed to listen for a specific sound - the sound of marching.    

Next, the sound was in a designated pace - the tree tops.  Not on the ground, nor in the air, but in the top of the mulberry trees.

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 enemy territory and is permitting us to recover all!  But we must LISTEN for our specific marching orders.

Don’t permit a delay in your recovery because you didn’t hear or recognize 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.  

Are You Without Sin????

 So Don’t Judge – Just Love

“Judge not, that you be not judged. ² For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.”       Matthew 7:1 &2 (ESV)

Who are you judging?  Of course, your immediate response to this question is – “No one.  I don’t judge anyone.”  But if you were to closely monitor your words,  actions, thoughts and motives; they might reveal quite the opposite.

To judge is to arbitrate; assess; to rule on etc.  Therefore, prior to one having the ability to perform such; one must have ALL of the correct information.  They must have the truth versus the mere facts.  Far too often we view situations from our own opinions or our own knowledge of a given – which usually contains a limited, biased amount of information.  Far too often instead of loving ALL people; in EVERY situation; we – though unintentional - show expressions of love to some classifications of people more readily than others.

God needs us – His ecclesia; His church , His called out ones – to be the living examples of the type of unconditional love that He had demonstrated while He was here.  He hasn’t called us to judge anyone – only to love them.  He hasn’t asked us to condemn anyone – only to love everyone – all of the time.  We must realize that when we are judging others – in most instances we are doing so from a residue of the spirit of pride that is still lingering within us.

Ask yourself; “What is hindering me from showing unconditional love to everyone that I encounter?”  I must remember that everyone that I encounter on a given day will also have an opinion of me.  Will I have left them with an impression that SHOWS them the love of God?  If not, why not?  Whatever the reason maybe…. “it won’t hold water!”  In other words – whatever my reasoning – God will not receive it as acceptable.  He has loved me through, in, and prior to all of my fallacies, faults and failures.  Now He expects me to go and to show that same love to others. 

He has shown us through His Son that His love extended beyond the boundaries of culture, race and creed (John 4).

He has shown us through His Son, that His love extended beyond the boundaries of presumptuous sins (John 8: 1-11).

He has shown us through His Son that his love extended beyond the boundaries of those who had falsely accused or wronged Him (Luke 23:34).

Therefore, whatever reason we may express – God will show us that His son has already encountered it, endured it and defeated it!  We are therefore without excuse for any valid reason for judging ANYONE.

So, we must remember:

• We can’t allow the opinions of others to keep us from reaching out to those who are in need of receiving God’s love from us.
• Ask myself – WWJD (What would Jesus do??)
• Our actions must reveal the love that God has extended to us.

Lastly ..…. “What the world needs now is love”…. TRUE love.  God’s unconditional love which knows no prejudice……but is shown to others…. by His people who have received the same!”

“…….. And love thy neighbor as thyself”.  Mark 12:31

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 two 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 conditions!  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 heavy 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? ....That for real….you don’t NEED anyone to “touch and agree”, you don’t need to constantly address what the enemy is doing….etc.  Nothing in err about doing these things – however they are not assisting you as you move up the ladder.  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 me. Sure, at the onset, my faith hadn’t matured to this level…. it was a process that had to begin at some point.  It’s symbolic of asking your earthly father for something.  Once you’ve asked him, would you go and ask someone else to accommodate you?  …NO!  You would only ask someone else 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 request – because we are joint heirs with His Son; and because of 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 – 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 also 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 totally, with a full assurance, sing and live the final verse “Rise, Shine, Give God the Glory”!

……Simply because we are authentically soldiers of the cross!

From Fetters to Freedom

 Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, And a two-edged sword in their hand, To execute vengeance on the nations, And punishment on the peoples, To bind their kings with chains, And their nobles with fetters of iron,                                                                          Psalm 149;6-8

Simply because we are privy to a dimension where the abundance of the Lord is ever present and manifesting itself in our lives; we must amend our ways to be assured that we will retain all that is being given back to us.   One of the strategies to be implemented is for us to be released from our fetters… and to walk in freedom.

There was a hymn entitled, “Jesus Breaks Every Fetter”.  Even though that song is rarely heard its implication hasn’t loss it validity.  When we bring to mind thoughts concerning the word “fetter”, we can correlate them to various obstacles that the enemy attaches to us to delay our progress in the Lord.   Whether they be: areas of sin or weaknesses in the flesh; the phenomena of life; or circumstances totally beyond our control; - a fetter is anything that is tied to me which restricts my mobility and/or my advancement. 

There are those things; some of which WE have permitted or instituted.  Others could have been inherited or the consequences of circumstances which were beyond our control.  Nevertheless, these obstacles still continue: to shackle, bond, chain and yoke themselves to us.  Therefore our effectiveness in the realm of the spirit is none productive.  Many times we are attempting to assist others in a deepen walk with the Lord, yet we have not been freed ourselves of our many “fetters”……  However Jesus still breaks EVERY fetter.

What are some of the evidences that our fetters have been broken?  

¨ When Jesus has broken every iron fetter, my concern is to increase my relationship with the Lord - just because of who he is - not because of what he can do. 

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, I will realize that as I increase in my love walk and in every other walk in my life - so will those with whom I am connected.  (The proof IS in the pudding!  Leaders.. We cannot any longer expect others to walk in a level of excellency and devotion that we are not committed to!) 

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, my appetites are disciplined and my motives pure.

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, the manifestation of the enemy’s work won’t frighten me, his maneuvers don’t surprise me and his schemes can’t outwit me.

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, I won’t just sing, “It is Well With My Soul”, but my life will exemplify and verify so.  (By your fruit shall you be known!)

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, the peace of God WILL rule my mind,  I WILL walk above EVERY circumstance in this life, and I WILL remain focused on and committed to the plans and purposes  that the Lord has assigned to me.

Therefore to obtain the freedom which will permit the peace of God to continually infiltrate our lives; surpassing all understanding;…. every fetter and its suppressing power must be broken!  

So ….its once again dependent upon the status of my mind! Once my mind has been liberated from its fetters – I will have the ability to be…and to maintain total freedom in every area of my life.  Then and only then will I have at my disposal the matured level of wisdom to advance from Fetters to Freedom.

"He whom the Son sets free is free indeed!" John 8:36

The Search Is On…Do You Qualify?

“……The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: ……. Luke 10:2

The Lord is still seeking those who are qualified to be an example in leadership.  Now…. you’ve been “saved” for quite a few years; you know quite a few scriptures; and can effectively convince someone of their need to deepen their relationship with the Lord.  However, what would your true character reveal if you were selected for this current search?

Let's take a look ……. Apply these personally. You be the judge!

1. Does my love for the Lord reflect in my: emotions, reasonings, and my actions?
2. Do I spend quality time in the presence of the Lord – daily?
3. Am I a bold advocate for the cause of Christ?
4. Am I familiar enough with my “sword” as to know the “flavor” of its content?
5. What is the opinion of the people in my community concerning my: integrity, friendliness, and my active involvement within the community?
6. What about my employer and my fellow coworkers? What is their opinion of my Spiritual convictions? Do they even know of my profession concerning my Lord?
7. What do my: Apple Pay, Cash App, Chime, Pay Pal, Venmo, Zelle or checking accounts reveal concerning my stewardship in the area of finances?
8. What type of financial supporter am I to those who minister to me on a regular basis?
9. Are my choices and the style of my clothing in accord with what is “satisfactory” and pleasing to the Lord?
10. Above all, is my overall lifestyle a display of that which would consider me to be classified as a current day disciple?

So if the Lord were to use the above brief list as a “white glove” to survey our lives…. would that glove still remain white after the survey?  Remember….God doesn’t require educational degrees, eloquent speech or a “padded” bank account – but He does require obedience, commitment and perseverance.   

Yes…. The search is on….. Do you qualify?  (if not…get to stepping!!!)

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 (ESV)

 Too Full To Receive…..

Only Empty Vessels Receive!

“Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants.  Don’t drink too much wine. That cheapens your life. Drink the Spirit of God, huge draughts of him. Sing hymns instead of drinking songs! Sing songs from your heart to Christ. Sing praises over everything, any excuse for a song to God the Father in the name of our Master, Jesus Christ.”  Ephesians 5:17-20 (The Message Bible)

It is only when we have been emptied – that we can be filled – full.  Any given container has a limit on the amount of a substance that it can keep in check.  Therefore, when a container has reached its maximum limit……that’s it.  It can’t hold another drop.  For example; you can attempt to pour a gallon of liquid into an already filled gallon sized bottle – and it will not be able to receive it.  Why? Because the first bottle is already “filled full”. Therefore, even though the substance in the second bottle may be of a superior quality – because the first bottle is already full; it can’t receive the better product.

God is saying that we are expecting Him to fill us with all of who He is – but He can’t; because there’s no room.  Our minds are still filled with the concepts and precepts of the world; when He has instructed us to empty them and renew them. (Romans 12:1&2)

• He has told us to empty ourselves of the cares of this world (I Peter 5:7); but we are still filled with worry, doubt and unbelief.
• He has instructed us to be not like the Pharisees and Scribes – hypocrites (Matthew 6:5); but we are still filled with pride, boastings and egotism.
• He has warned us not to be filled with vengeance – because it belongs to Him (Romans 12:19). Yet we are not emptied of backbiting; we’re still holding grudges and harboring unforgiveness.

We must remember:

Ø  Only empty vessels can be filled.

Ø  Only empty vessels have the ability to totally receive all that is being poured into them. 

Ø  Only empty vessels will have the capability to contain the proper amount of wisdom needed to successfully up root the diabolical plans and plots of the enemy.

Ø  Only empty vessels have received the revelation that they must stay on the potter’s wheel and daily cleanse themselves with the Word of God – if they are going to remain emptied of the concepts and ideologies of this world.

Ø  Only empty vessels are those who were once yielded; but are now broken, freed and ready to have the anointing of God to empower them with His Presence, His Integrity and His Kingdom Authority.

So, if we are to be used totally of God…for God – then it is time for us to empty out ourselves and get rid of whatever is not relevant for this season in our lives.  Remember yesterday’s treasures just might be today’s useless clutter!

…….. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:…” Ecclesiastes 3:1

Keep YOUR Fire Ablaze

 “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”  James 1:12

If you can remember some of the lessons from your chemistry class, one of the first lessons was probably on the composition of fire.  As a reminder, three elements are required to cause the chemical reaction to occur that we call fire. They are: oxygen, fuel and heat.  If one of these components is missing…. there will be no fire.

Fire likes to spread, and when it touches ANYTHING it will attempt to engulf it.  Fire will test whatever is in its path to measure the tangibility of its composure. If a fire is going to continue to burn and increase in intensely – it must maintain its fuel supply.

What about your inward fire?  Sometimes, our spiritual fires have been ignited, but if we haven’t provided the adequate fuel line to feed our fires….. they burn themselves out. Are you snuffing out your flame?  Is your flame struggling to stay lit?  Has the sin of: disobedience, worry, ignorance or impatience caused there to be a break or a leak in your fuel line…and now the flame of your fire is just flickering instead of blazing? 

When we have the fire of the Holy Ghost burning on the inside, He will; because of the complexity of His nature, possess the ability to perform a multi-faceted purpose. He will protect and defend; be an offensive as well as a defensive barrier and enable us with the ability to live a productive life. He will spread and ignite everything that is within us; and conform it to His likeness….if we permit Him to do so. 

We must be determined to keep our fire blazing. The Holy Spirit will assist us – but we must do our part.   To maintain our spiritual fire, we must also supply Him with the three required substances. It is mandatory that we have: the oxygen (our submitted will); the fuel (supplying a proper spiritual diet) and the heat (continual line of communication with the Father).

Therefore, In the midst of every “happening”………. Keep Your Fire Ablaze!

Whether the conditions are positive or negative……..Keep Your Fire Ablaze!

Whether your environment is pleasurable or disagreeable ……Keep Your Fire Ablaze!

Whatever mindset you have encountered…………….Keep Your Fire Ablaze!

Remember… You are a WARRIOR!!! And a warrior knows NO defeat!

Therefore, I challenge you to …..at any cost, be determined that you will....

             Keep Your Fire Ablaze!!!

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”  James 1:12

The Door is Open.. ACCESS GRANTED!!

"I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me.” Revelation 3:8

Today the Lord is saying that because of your faithfulness to Him as you weathered every adverse condition; because of your diligence and perseverance to seek His face more than you sought His hand; because you planted your feet firmly in His Word REGARDLESS; because you refused to permit what you have observed with your natural eye to allow you to loose your focus…..  NOW.. A new door has been opened unto you!  You have been granted access to regain everything that the enemy has stolen, taken, or swindled from you!

Imagine the rain clouds. When they receive an excess amount of moisture – they BURST FORTH and we receive rain.  So it is at this time.  You have released in the realm of the spirit the necessary “rain”… your spiritual clouds can no longer contain any more of:  your fastings, your praying, your unselfish giving, your intercedings, your warring in the spirit; your level of tenacity and endurance.  It is now time for your spiritual clouds to burst forth!

Therefore, every necessary door that was previously closed….is opened!

Everything that was previously unavailable…..  is now available!

It is extremely important that you stay focused, and remain faithful.  Don’t become distracted by the sudden influx.  Seek the face of God for the wisdom that is necessary to function properly as you embrace all that is speedily becoming available to you.  Remember… Kingdom work must continue!

Lastly, the Lord is saying that the door has been opened, your access has been granted; however, don’t become a harbor…..you must continue to be a channel!

"……'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. …… Matthew 25:23

Special Note: This morning while in prayer, I received this acrostic for the word “OPEN”.

Those for whom it is intended will benefit from it and be able to comprehend it.  If you can’t relate – no problem…..it just wasn’t for you this time!

O – Opportunity, opposition

P – People, purpose

E – Employment, equity

N – News, neutralize

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…. Instead of resting in the confidence of His Word.

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 REVELATION!  And because Revelation has birthed 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 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 intolerable anguish and suffering [only the first of the birth pangs].

So when the next major calamity comes that shook us like “9 -11” or COVID 19 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 I 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!

It’s Never Too Late!

Life can be compared to a strategic game that requires its players at certain points, to make moves that cannot be changed.  One decisive rule that we must remember in this game is this: although we may not maintain the ability to alter the moves; we can always change the results.

This concept is mirrored in many instances throughout the Bible.  As we read and glean wisdom, strength and encouragement; we can see that no matter what the circumstances or the situations that the people of God were confronted with – God always showed them that they still had – one more move. 

So as you continue to participate in the game of life, always remember that; “It ain’t over til God says it’s over”.  No matter what you’ve done in your past, if you: trust in God, make an about face, and begin to do things His way, instead of leaning to your own understanding – He can rectify, repair, resolve, amend and correct anything. (Proverbs 3:5 & II Chronicles 7:14)

Another very important fact to remember in this game called life is this: “We have the power to limit the manifestation of God’s desire to change things for our good”.  In other words, because God has given to us the place of dominion and authority on this earth, He will not override that decision. 

That’s why He has told US that: death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21);

He has told US to speak forth those things which be not.., (Romans 4:17);

 He has told US - I set before you this day life and death ….  (Deuteronomy 30:19);

 He has told US - No good thing will I withhold… (Psalm 84:11); He has told US to – put on the whole armor …. (Ephesians 6:11-13) etc., etc.  –

So, He is saying SPEAK it, and I’ve got your back!  He is saying, “You may have decided to make a wrong move – but I’ve allotted you the opportunity to cause that wrong move to work in your favor.” (Romans 8:28)

So remember that this game of life has many players but very few winners.  Why?  Because most people don’t realize …..that, our battle has already been won… and most importantly ……you always have at least one more move……..Therefore…… “It’s Never Too Late”!

(Special note: My grandfather published his first hardcover book at the age of 83 years old!)

“P.E.A.C.E.”

Can I still have peace?

Simply because I’ve learned that peace is a mindset and is not determined by my current situations or circumstances; peace is always available to me.  I just need to acquire the correct tools and avail myself to the proper implementation of the same!

Tools For  Maintaining The Peace of God

P -“Presence” - If I invite the presenceª of God to intervene;

E -“Endure”   - If I endure¹ as a warrior, not whine like a wimp; and view

my situation as an open door and not a dead end;

A -“Ask”        - If I ask² God for guidance, and not just do what “I” think is best;

C -“Cry”         - If I cry³ out to the Lord first– and not to other people;

E -“Expect”   - If I expectº and accept. Expect God to give me a strategy – so I’ll

                          keep an open ear  - knowing that I must accept the process.

So….YES! I can still have PEACE in the midst of it all…..But the key is to:

Invite the Presence of God into every situation;

Endure as a warrior;

Ask God for help;

Cry out to Him and

Expect Him to change ME even when the situation doesn’t APPEAR to be changing!  

a - Exodus 33: 14

1 –James 1:22; II Timothy 2:3

     2 –Proverbs 3:5-7

     3 – Psalm 30:2

     o – Philippians 4:13; Psalm 86:11; Psalm 25:5