True Love Can Only Come From God!

.... .God is love…….. I John 4:7b

It never ceases to amaze me how people who don’t: know, comprehend, believe in or even acknowledged the very existence of our God; can set aside a day ….. that honors the very essence of who He is!

Our Sword simply states that “GOD” is love.  Therefore, anything that is outside of who God is cannot be categorized as love.  This concept of God as love is difficult for many to grasp – especially those of us who use English as our primary language.   Most of the other dialects use different words to express their emotions of various degrees.  However, we use a singular word “love” to express our feelings in every arena - from food to our possessions, to our spouses, to our children, to our pets – EVERYTHING for which we have a deep affection.

However, anything that is not in accord with who God is, is not Love.  Many, for centuries have adapted the enemy’s concepts and have been so misinformed concerning the definition of love. Man has thought that he can apply this word love to and in any situation.

To simply state it - every affection or relationship that is outside of, and is not in conformity with God’s word, is not truly love.  Call it what you will – however you are only deceiving yourself!

Man has made an attempt to fill that place in his life that God has reserved just for Himself with various “counterfeits”.  When we begin to understand the true Love of our God – then we will aggressively begin to remove every imitation, every fake expression, every “pacifier” that the enemy has provided. 

Sooooo here we go…. On today, this Valentine’s Day, let’s set the record straight! If you’re involved in any relationship be it: extra-marital, adulterous (sex with a married partner that is not yours), fornication (sex without marriage), same gender relationships, or you are intimately involved with a “significant other” - and you THINK that you are in “LOVE” – wake up and smell the coffee!  You have settled for something much less than the true love God has intended for you to enjoy.   All of these are outside of what God – who is Love – has decreed as LOVE!  

God’s love for us has no limits or boundaries.  God’s love is expressive.  However it is to be expressed within HIS guidelines!  It’s because of His love that He has placed inside of each of us, that we have a desire, to also communicate that love to others.  However, it’s His game and He has set the stakes high!  Don’t lower your standards.  Don’t diminish your royal, priestly position (I Peter 2:9) by becoming involved in the trickery of the enemy.   Be determined that you will only accept the best and discard the rest!  Be determined to go “against the grain”.  Dare to be different!  But above all dare to be RIGHT!

GOD IS LOVE  ….. and whatever is outside of His standards and His guidelines….is not love!

Have a blessed day…filled with the true love of the Lord!

 “The one who says, "I have come to know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected.”   I John 2:4 & 5

Worship Is Not Superficial

“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.” John 4:23 (ESV)

Blessings Leaders (and potential Leaders).  Today’s focus is the thought: Worship is Not Superficial. When defining the word worship, we will discover its definition is diverse; offering a suggestion of various synonyms.  For our meditation today, we will select the section which states “implying and attributing extreme honor & reverence to”. 

When we consider just that portion of the definition alone, it bears witness of this one fact: “If I am to ascribe the characteristics of attributing “extreme” honor & reverence to someone or something; I must have obtained a heightened prior knowledge or an awareness of that person or object.  It is also necessary to realize that because of the in depth nature associated with this word worship, I cannot simply reduce its nature to the limits or the confines of my thoughts.   My worship for God will only be established when I realize the level of intimacy that is required for me to connect with Him in that realm.  When I haven’t properly established a worship relationship with the Lord, it is impossible for me to lead others to that place of true worship.  We must always remain cognizant of the fact that it is my responsibility to maintain the plateau of intimacy with God so that I can properly lead others into true worship. I am convinced that many leaders don’t have the type of intimate relationship with the Lord that will permit unhindered, totally focused worship.  Therefore, as I so often say; we have permitted our congregants to believe that “worship” can be reduced to the two slow songs which are sung during our quote “Praise and Worship” portion of the service. 

Leaders, don’t become so preoccupied with “doing ministry” that we forsake the time to build that intimate relationship with the Lord that will permit us to worship him.

Worship involves that cherished relationship with the Lord that will overflow into my daily dealings.  When I’ve learned to worship the Lord, I’ll have no problem aligning and curtailing my flesh and its desires.

It is only when we have learned the art of true worship, that we will obtain the power to successfully defeat our adversary.  The true worship of God will avail us of the power and ability to transcend our ideologies, and conform them into those that are the expressed image of  God.

As we begin this season of change and restoration, begin to spend more time in the presence of God. .. Not for the sake of studying the Word, not in prayer - but just in His presence….not asking for anything… not decreeing and declaring ….just in His presence in fellowship with Him! 

It is only when we learn to intimately commune with Him, that true worship begins.  

Remember: “When I spend time IN worship, then I will be empowered TO worship.”

“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.”

Psalm 29:2

Broken Boundaries Reestablished

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

As we begin to reestablish our broken boundaries, we must realize that if our ear is not disciplined  -we will not have the ability to  recognize the prophetic instructions from the Lord.  We have been given specific orders; however, without an “ear to hear” we will continue to proceed through every day conducting “business as usual”.

To live a life that has been crucified requires that we re-establish and maintain boundaries.    Therefore, I must be determined that I will; without regards to the cost; not permit the cares, pleasures and lifestyles of this world, to persuade me to permit my God given boundaries to become broken.    So.. I might have to eliminate some relationships, fine tune my “inner circle”, and realize that the strategies that were effective yesterday are totally irrelevant for this season! 

Today, we are witnessing the effects of “broken boundaries” in our homes, our government… and what’s even worst, within the body of Christ.   The body of Christ as a whole has the power to totally uproot and overthrow every diabolical decision that our government attempts to impose upon us.   However, because we have permitted so many boundaries to become broken; the Holy Spirit who resides WITHIN us is no longer living THROUGH us. 

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

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

Let’s eagerly begin to reestablish the broken boundaries in our lives by allowing the Holy Spirit who dwells within us to truly live through us.  This means taking a non-compromising stand for everything that God opposes….regardless!  This means no negotiating or “plea bargaining” when it comes to what we do, where we go, what we eat, what we say, what we wear; our giving and our living; our dispositions nor our attitudes. 

So… because we have been crucified with Christ, trust God! We must tune in to that realm where the prophetic voice is as audible and natural to us as taking our next breath! We must allow the life that we now live, to be a living sacrifice of a lifestyle that exemplifies the power, and the authority of the Holy Spirit who inhabits our spiritman.  The world needs what we have. 

Therefore, we must:

At any cost, refuse to permit our boundaries to remain broken! 

At any cost develop a mindset that will remain militant, focused and determine in our quest to reestablish the broken boundaries.

At any cost maintain an alert, discerning ear; sensitive to the prophetic voice of God…. and watch God use YOU to begin this transformation of reestablishing broken boundaries!

Was That God’s Voice?

“and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.  And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.” John 10:4 &5

Many of you have asked me from time to time questions concerning the ability to distinguish the voice of God from your own thoughts and from the noise of the enemy. 

As the end of time as we know it draws nigh, we have to maintain an alertness that will not permit the advancements of modern technology to further null or desensitize our natural abilities.  When we look in retrospect at those who have lived in previous generations – we will observe that they possessed the ability to be much wiser than we are today.  Our ancestors may not have had all of the “gadgets” that we now have, but they had the ability to use their natural senses in ways that are not common to us.  

Just to side track for a minute.  We must be aware of the attack that has come against the verbal communication skills of our younger generation.  One of the end time strategies of our adversary is to get them to become so dependent on their devices that their brains lose their desire to communicate verbally.  Therefore, now we have a generation who can sit for hours – in the same room – and not verbally say a single word to each other!  But….will text each other instead of verbally talking. Can you see the strategy?  If they don’t value their ability to verbally communicate with one another, how can they comfortably verbally communicate with God? If they don’t verbally communicate, how can they have the ability to verbally bring a halt to the enemy’s devices?  Remember that death and life are where? ….. In the power of the tongue….the spoken word!

Ok …let’s get back on today’s thought.  To be able to recognize the voice of God we must learn more about Him, and build a relationship with Him.  This is accomplished by spending valuable time in His presence and studying His word to the point that we will know exactly who He is.  When you were a child, no doubt there were times when your parents may not have been present.  However, because you had spent time in their presence and had come to know them, you knew whether you could or could not adhere to certain behavior patterns.  You knew your limits because you knew your parents.  You could be in a crowded area; and if they called to you, you knew exactly who was calling you.  Why? Because you KNEW them.  You knew the sound of their voice because you had spent time in their presence.

How can a bank teller know an authentic bill from a counterfeit?  Because they have studied the appearance and texture of the real thing to the degree that they “know it”. So, how can we know the voice of God? By studying the real thing until we “know it”!  When we truly know God, then we will know His voice.  When we truly know God, we will know what behavior patterns are in accord with who He is.  When we truly know God, our thoughts, nor the noise of the enemy will sound the same in our ears, nor feel the same in our spirits.  When we truly know God, we will know what He desires, what He agrees with and what He wants us to accomplish.   

“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me….” Matthew 10:29a

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

We have once again arrived at the time of the year where people observe and express their definitions of love.

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 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 Optical Illusion

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Proverbs 14:12

Visual illusions; better referred to as optical illusions; have taught us that what we think that we see, doesn’t always reveal what is actually present.  In a visual illusion, your brain attempts to process information received from your optic nerve.  However, although many people can view the same picture they will not always perceive the same image.  This is thought to be because of the complexity and individuality of our brain cells; as well as all of the occurrences and information that we have received in our lifetimes. Therefore, we have learned that we can only believe about a half of what we see with our physical eye. 

As the end of time as we have now perceived it quickly draws nigh, it behooves us to more eagerly develop our spiritual senses.  We must learn not to sensor everything through what we see with our physical eye, but to increase the awareness of our spirits (conscience, intuition, and communion with God)….. And to permit that knowledge to impact our soul (mind, will and emotions).

The enemy has painted most of the visual illusions that we cling to today – and that we perceive as truth.  Usually, our number one blockage or hindrance in our spiritual walk has resulted from nothing more than an optical illusion.  It’s some concept or precept that we have “viewed” and now its residue is still lingering….preventing us from aggressively and effectively defeating the enemy….at all times.

II Corinthians 4:18 summarizes this entire concept.  Here Paul is telling us not to look at the things that we see…..because they are subject to change.  I would like to encourage you to focus more on the “weightier” things in life.  Many people will read every label prior to purchasing their food or clothing and even exercise religiously. …nothing wrong here.  However, their focus on the edification of their spirit man is not as meticulous.

Let’s no longer receive the optical illusion that this world has presented.  Let’s take off the spiritual blinders….and stop living within the perimeters….the “lies” that the enemy has given to us.  Walk by faith, not by sight (II Corinthians 5:7).  We are still privy to every blessing proclaimed in Deuteronomy 28…. And then some!!!  Don’t allow an optical illusion to deceive you; causing you to abort or to totally miss your next opportunity for advancement. 

To view life only through our five senses is elementary.  Therefore, I must enhance my spiritual discernment –so that I will not be overtaken ever again by the next optical illusion that my adversary presents as truth!

“Since we consider and look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are visible are temporal (brief and fleeting), but the things that are invisible are deathless and everlasting.” II Corinthians 4:18  Amplified Version

Don’t Throw In The Towel….

It’s Your Process

 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Jeremiah 29:11

Today we in America are living in an era where spending long hours preparing and cooking food is almost to be compared with typewriters and dinosaurs!  We’ve adhered to and adjusted to the notion of reducing some of the steps; cutting a few corners; while yet expecting the end product to still remain the same. Most of us have not learned the art of “waiting”, nor how to persevere and gracefully endure each phase of a process.

Let’s consider making some rolls. Most people really enjoy freshly baked warm rolls; straight from the oven.  However have you ever considered that there are various processes involved prior to receiving this end product?  If you are going to bake rolls – the dough must be properly made, permitted to rise; punched down; reshaped; and then permitted to rise all over again.  Then, after more preparation… this dough will be placed into a hot oven where the process continues.  If just one step in this process is eliminated; if just one ingredient is measured incorrectly; if just one condition is adjusted improperly – the end product will not produce the expected and anticipated results.  The entire process must be permitted to “run its course” – if you desire to have rolls which have the correct texture, taste and appearance.

When we read the story of Joseph’s life; (Genesis 37:3-41:4); we can realize that life is a process.  Joseph didn’t advance to be the King without enduring every stage of his process.  Far too often we are attempting to reign as a King, without enduring the foundational principles gleaned from the experiences of a pit.  Joseph had to endure the consequences and apply the wisdom learned in the pit, at the house of Potiphar, and in the prison; prior to his ability to reign in the palace.

Every occurrence in your life was and is vital!  Every circumstance presented a building block that has been permitted, as a foundational pillar, from which your future will be erected.  If just one incident in your life had been altered – you would not have learned from that experience, nor have the wisdom that you now have.  Every part of your process is of grave importance.

Always remember the concept of making rolls.  When making rolls, the dough will rise only to be punched back down again… and sometimes again. Then reshaped, set aside to rise again and shoved into a hot oven!

So don’t become discouraged when you have exceled….. only to find yourself knocked down and back at square one all over again…. But rather rejoice.   There are lessons to be learned on every level that will equip you for your future stability.   God has made plans for your life.  He is simply taking you through the process that will bring you to His expected end for you.  Wherever you are right now – your present conditions are only temporary and the stepping stones along this path called destiny!

Remember, whatever you are experiencing right now…. …. It’s life.   It’s vital.  It’s God ordained….. and……   It’s only your process. 

Marinating…but in What?

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” Joshua 1:8 (ESV)

Preparation is always a vital instrument.  Our ability to successfully outwit the adversary is dependent upon our “spiritual marinating sauce”.  It is imperative that we sensor the type of “marinating mixture” that our spirit man is being exposed to on a regular basis.  Today, as never before, it is essential that we are ever cautious and remain on our guard concerning the types of material that we are constantly permitting to enter through our ear and eye gates.  Far too often we are permitting our spirits to be marinated with; and to become saturated with the concepts of this world – without our knowledge. However, if we maintain the proper relationship with the Lord, He will always alert us to the ploys of the enemy.

Don’t permit your spirit to become desensitized to what God has established as our foundational principles and guidelines.  With the advancements in technology, we have the ability to have God inspired material at our disposal as often as we desire. Therefore, it is our responsibility to “choose” what we will permit our spirits to bask, soak… marinate in.  

Remember what happened to Sampson when he became too comfortable and began to permit his spirit to marinate in the enemy’s camp.  We must always remain alert, and have an open ear to hear the warnings of the Lord; if we are going to maintain our stamina in this race.  Our every encounter with the enemy has been strategically planned by him. However, when we have permitted our spirits to bask  in the presence of the Lord; we can be assured that He will give us the necessary wisdom, power and authority to successfully outwit and discern every diabolical maneuver.  If we are going to stay at least a step or two ahead of our adversary – we must be on our alert at all times.  Everything that is a “good” thing may not be a “God” thing! 

In other words, we of our own accord can’t possibly be aware of every current device that the enemy will use in an attempt to bring defeat and or demise to our plan of action.  Nevertheless, when we begin to marinate in the presence of the Lord, we will have the ability to maintain a conscious awareness of Him – that will always alert us to every potentially adverse situation.

Yes… preparation is vital.  Remember, marinating is a preparatory process.  It is a current procedure, whose results will assure us of our future success. The problem is not “if” we are marinating…. But “what” we are using as our marinating agent.

“I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” Psalm 119:15 ESV

“P.E.A.C.E.”

How can I still have peace?

It doesn’t matter what you’re encountering….you can still have peace.  However, you must realize that God has given to you a strategy that must be implemented.  You must also realize that peace is not the absence of adversity – but a mindset.  

So… How can you renew my mind to the extent that you can receive God’s solution and apply it to every situation?   The following can assist.

P -“Presence” - If we invite the presence of God to intervene; (Exodus 33: 14)

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

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

                                (James 1:22; II Timothy 2:3)

A -“Ask”        - If we ask God for guidance and the proper strategy to                       

                       successfully outwit the enemy in every situation... and don’t just    

                       do what “WE” think is best;  (Proverbs 3:5-7)

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

         (Psalm 30:2)

E -“Expect”   - If we expect and accept. Expect God to give you a strategy –  

                          Therefore, keep an open ear  - knowing that we must accept

                          the process.

                               (Philippians 4:13; Psalm 86:11; Psalm 25:5)

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

Invite in the PRESENCE of God;  Be determined to ENDURE; ASK God for help; CRY to Him and EXPECT Him to change US even when the situation doesn’t APPEAR to be changing.        

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 space - 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 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.  

The Virtues of Victory

“…….. and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.”   I John 5:4

What are some of the factors that will assist us as we strive to remain victorious?  How is  victory determined?  Here’s a simple acrostic.

V – Vision - To be victorious I must have 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 and powerfully intensify every  

                   area of my life.

                 “ 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 – Concentration equals 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 – to gain total victory, I must solidify my trust channels – from the inside out.

                  Proverbs 20:7; 3:5; Psalm 146:3 (ESV)

O -   Opposition – Accept the fact that there will always be oppositions; some will edify, some

                  will challenge and some are sent to destroy.  

                “....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 - 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

We can also observe that the letter “Y” is the last letter in the word victory.  The shape of this letter 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 forward.   The ability to continually walk in a state of victory is achieved, when we decide to never become satisfied with our current achievements – but to always strive for an added dimension of greatness.

So again I ask, “What are some of the virtues of VICTORY”? 

The answer: To have a Vision; To Intensify my actions; To value the relevance of Consecration; To free up my Trust channels;  To expect Opposition,  To obey the Rules and To become Yoked only to what is ordained and established by Kingdom Principles.

“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

On your mark……Get set……WAIT!

The waiting game!  For many of us, life seems to have given us a first class seat in this section of time called “waiting”.  We seem to always think that we are ready to advance to our next place.  We seem to think that we are focused and in the correct lane….we are disciplined and in the correct position ….yet we still haven’t heard the correct sound that signals us to move forward……so we WAIT.

Waiting is a word that’s familiar to everyone – across the board.  From the youngest infant to the oldest adult: the rich, the wealthy, the poor, the educated and unlearned – everyone has had their dealings with this thing called waiting. 

Although we don’t always view it as so, when we are waiting, we are actually saying, “I haven’t given up….. I’m still anticipating that something phenomenal is going to happen”.

So as we wait in the physical realm; in the realm of the spirit our mindset must remain:

W - Watchful.  Maintain your attentiveness; stay on the lookout.  Don’t fall asleep! (I Peter 5:8)

A -  Active.  Mark time if you must – but do something! Don’t permit your spirit to become lazy.  (Proverbs 6:6)

I  -   Ideological.  Never allow your creative abilities to cease.  There are still new inventions to  be discovered!  Just because you are waiting in one area doesn’t mean that you  

                            can’t progress in other areas.  (I Corinthians 2:9)

T – Truthful .  Uphold your level of integrity in word and in deed.  Don’t begin to lower your standards nor your expectations.   (II Corinthians 8:21)

So, against popular belief… the waiting game does have its positive aspects.  However, it’s our decisions and our expectations (or the lack of them!) that permit us to make lemonade from the lemons, rather than drink its juice and complain about the tartness! 

No More Fear …..Just Faith!

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in   love”.                                                                                                                                                 I John 4:18

In what area of your life has fear become your favorite pillow, your warm comforter, your pair of fuzzy slippers or your favorite latte??  Or maybe your escape from fear leads you to binges of over or under eating, excessive spending sprees, or becoming involved in behavior patterns that are totally ungodly. 

The spirit of fear is always looking for opportunities to enter, dominate and paralyze us.  Usually, when the time arises for us to embark upon and advance into a new place in the Lord, he (the spirit of fear) – will faithfully grace our stage for a grand performance!  In other words that spirit of fear will always seek to gain an entrance into our spirit man – and play a major role in preventing us from moving forward in the Lord. 

However it’s time for us to “take the bull by the horns” and aggressively pursue our next adventure in the Lord.  Remember, walking in and by faith isn’t always walking in the absence of fear.  There will be times when you will have to move forward while “feeling” afraid….  But you must continue to advance.  If your level of faith is going to increase, you can’t stand still and wait until you don’t feel afraid. 

I would like to encourage you to embrace the prayer below that I had written quite a few years ago concerning the spirit of fear.  Remember….you are in control and the decision is yours.  Your actions will always reveal whether you have chosen to SIT in fear or the WALK of faith.    

Fear Be Gone! (© 2003)

Father God in the name of Jesus, I denounce the spirit of fear in my life.  As of this day, I forbid the spirit of fear to dominate, reign or sit passively in any area of my life.

Holy Spirit, I surrender right now to you my entire being.  I ask that you reveal to me now every area of my life where ungodly fear is present.  Every area in my conscience or sub-conscience arena where fear may have a stronghold.  Any area from my past where fear has been the comfort zone.  Reveal every open door that satan has used to bring fear into my life.

Lord God, your word declares that your perfect love will cast out, drive away, eradicate and will replace fear.  So Father, I come to you now and ask that you reveal to me your perfect love in every area of my being.  Your love that will not fail.  Your love that is unconditional.  Your love that is incomprehensive to my natural man, but is conceivable in the spirit realm.

Father, as I have asked the Holy Spirit to reveal the entrances where fear has entered, I ask you for the wisdom needed to close every open door.  I decree those doors closed, shut, sealed - never to be opened again.

 I thank you Father God for my new found freedom in you now that the weight of fear is gone. Hallelujah!

Psalm 56:4 “When I am afraid, I will trust in you

But Do You Know Who You Are?

The Lord has said that many of us don’t really know who He is; and therefore we can’t possibly comprehend who we are.  We know OF Him.  We know ABOUT His workings.  However, we haven’t fully grasped Him in His totality.  Therefore, we haven’t begun to realize who we are.

As you read through this list, ask the Lord for an added enlightenment; a new revelation and a different perspective from which to comprehend each statement.  Refuse to merely read through the list in 20 seconds!  The time has come and now is for us to walk fearlessly, boldly, completely knowledgeable and totally enlightened concerning who we are. As you read through the list, pause after each statement and wait for the Lord to reveal to you exactly how that statement applies to you…. individually. 

I AM: God’s child for I am born again of the incorruptible seed of the Word of God. (I Peter 1:23)

I AM:  The temple of the Holy Spirit. (I Corinthians 6:19)

I AM: Delivered from the power of darkness and translated in God’s kingdom. (Colossians 1:13)

I AM: Qualified to share in His inheritance. (Colossians 1:12)

I AM: Overtaken with blessings (Deuteronomy 28:2)

I AM: Called by God. (2 Timothy 1:9)

I AM: God’s workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works. (Ephesians 2:10)

I AM: The apple of my Father’s eye. (Deuteronomy 32:10)

I AM: The enemy of the devil. (I Peter 5:8)

I AM: Dead with Christ and dead to the power of sin’s rule over my life. (Romans 6:1-6)

This list could continue on for pages ….and the half still would not have been told!  Just know that you must begin to UNDERSTAND who you are!  You were; because of your acceptance of Christ as your Saviour; immediately catapulted into a new place.   You were birthed into a place of royalty, authority, and influence.  However, because most of us have not succeeded in the essence and the application of Romans 12:2; our minds are still being led and influenced by old mindsets.  Mindsets that remain the same, encaged in former disciplines and still have not been  renewed.  Therefore, in many instances; we are continuing to operate from the positions of defeat, inferiority, and mediocrity!

So…let’s get it together this year!  Waste no more time.  Aggressively seek the face of God and discover how we can be more effective in our daily walk….simply because we now KNOW who we are….. then we will begin to exemplify productive, dynamic lifestyles which will reveal the nature of our omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient Father.

…… Can’t run this race with those “cement boots”!

“We have all these great people around us as examples. Their lives tell us what faith means. So we, too, should run the race that is before us and never quit. We should remove from our lives anything that would slow us down and the sin that so often makes us fall.”                                                              Hebrews 12:1 (ERV)  

^“Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins.”                                                                                            Hebrews 12:1 (MSG)

In many instances we have turned from the sin – but we are still carrying too much excess “baggage”.  It’s time for an upgrade.  Let’s kick it up a notch.  In this season God is requiring a lifestyle of: discipline, integrity and diligence.

The Lord is saying, “Don’t lose what you’ve acquired during the past 21 days.”  It matters not the type of fast that you were engaged in; simply because your mind was focused EARNESTLY towards Him and His attributes – you have been thrust into a new dimension.  However, as you gradually return to your regular diet, don’t permit your mindset to return to: sinful (those things which are a transgression) or wicked (those things which may not be a sin, however, things that we become interwoven with and can taint our anointing) appetites.   To avoid returning or “slipping” backward; maintain a level of discipline; uphold a level of integrity and adhere to a level of diligence.  You must also release from your life EVERYTHING that is no longer necessary in this dimension.  Although some things may have been quite beneficial in the past; now….in this dimension…. they are only weights….cement boots!  In this dimension; in this portion of the race which you are now running – there is no place for unnecessary weight…. Cement Boots!

Can you identify the “cement boots” in your spiritual life?  God is daily revealing them to you.  Whatever or whomever He is attempting to strip from you - don’t try to cling on it or them.  Let them go! Trust God! 

When we fully trust Him – we will obey Him. Then we will have the ability to retain all that we have acquired during this time of consecration.

Spiritual Cataracts

“And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” ......” 2 Kings 6:17

Read: 2 Kings 6:8-22

There are times when we, the body of Christ are lacking the ability to see and understand the happenings of this season.  In other words, we have been “blind-sided”; not possessing the capability to clearly comprehend and relate the occurrences of today to those which are recorded in the Bible.  Although we sincerely love the Lord; attend Bible Study on a regular basis; and are faithful in the paying of our tithes and offerings; we can’t seem to SEE clearly.  Why? Possibly because we have Spiritual Cataracts.

Basically, when a person has a cataract in the natural; they have a condition in which there is a cloudiness of the lens in the eye that prevents light from passing to the retina; which can impair their vision.

Therefore, when someone has a Spiritual Cataract they have a blockage in their perception in the realm of the Spirit; which is preventing the illumination of God’s word from being comprehended to its fullest capacity.  They may “see men walking as trees” (Mark 8:24); or not even see at all (refer to the key verse).  Whatever the case they need to have those cataracts removed if they are going to be abreast of these end-time situations, which have already been fully explained in our canon. 

In some instances cataracts in the natural can remain intact because they aren’t really obstructing too much of the retina.  However, when referring to Spiritual Cataracts; whatever the density or consistency – they must be removed.  We can’t afford to permit anything in our lives which will block or hinder the Light of the Lord to prevail.

So if you are lacking the ability to accurately “see” the signs of the times; if you are still not actively progressing in the realm of the Spirit; if your decisions and directives are still leading you down paths which are non-productive; ….. then maybe you are in need of a Spiritual Cataract Surgery. 

Ask the Lord to reveal to you every area in your life where He is still not “Lord”.   In other words; those areas where the illumination of His word is not prevailing to the extent, that you are willing to bring about a total submission to His divine authority.  Ask Him for the corrective orders and directions which will permit an enlightenment of who He is to be evident and to prevail in your life.

Lastly, remember that God will perform the necessary procedures – but we must be willing to do our part by walking in obedience, persistence, and a determination to do whatever that He mandates for our lives. 

Make the preparations for your surgery today….enough time has already transpired. The enemy has already gained too much ground because we are walking around…. having our illumination in the realm of the Spirit hindered…..because ignorantly we have ignored our Spiritual Cataracts!

Know God’s Voice….And Move Quickly!!!

“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 “Our Lord of Break -Through” 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 place - the tree tops.  Not on the ground, nor in the air, but in the top of the trees.  Lastly, David was told the type of trees from which the specific sound was to resonate. 

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

Our God is still operating as a 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 the voice of God concerning His specific instructions, advising you how and when to advance - and recover all!

The wealth of the wicked IS ours; however, we must adhere to the precise, explicit instructions from the Lord if we are to be privy to it!  (Note: Research the word “wicked” ; and receive a renewed application!)

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

Day 21- The Day of Victory

“There is no battle that I will become engaged in or encounter where I will not be victorious.”

“Jehovah Izuz Wegibbor”

(The Lord Strong and Mighty – Psalm 24:8)

“Jehovah Gibbor Milchamah”

(The Lord mighty in battle—Psalm 24:8)

“Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle!”     Psalm 24:8

Read: Psalm 24, Luke 10:19 & I John 5

Prayer time!

Lord, as this period of Consecration concludes, may I never forget your revealed perceptions and character qualities.  Daily you were reminding me of who you are, and that you alone have the authority, the power, and the wisdom, to enable me to become victorious, in every situation.

So this “IS” a day of victory because you have equipped me with the proper tools to successfully stand against the wiles of the enemy.

As I encounter various attacks throughout this year, may I remain focused on every concept of who you are.  I have obtained an increased awareness of your omniscient presence.  Since you, working through your Son Jesus, have already successfully defeated every adverse force – may I never forget that I have a blood brought right to the same victorious state. HALLELUJAH!

I can only emerge from this consecration knowing that whatever I encounter at this stage; in this dimension—I will be victorious!   You have been revealing and re-establishing in me for these past 20 days, every facet of who you are.    May I remain cognizant of the fact that I am required to stand firm and unmovable totally engulfed in who you are,  if I am going to maintain my effectiveness in the realm of the spirit.  I am therefore equipped with every tool which is now necessary for my advancement, my encouragement and to maintain my stamina in you.

Because you are strong and mighty, because you are mighty in battle; I can truly proclaim….

“NO WEAPON THAT IS FORMED AGAINST ME SHALL PROSPER!”

Hallelujah—I AM VICTORIOUS!!!!

 …and I decree and declare that it is so in the name of Jesus….AMEN!!

Day 20 - The Day of  Affirming Lordship 

“ ...Because you are my LORD, you are my glory.”

“Jehovah Kabodhi”

(The Lord My Glory – Psalm 3:3)

“But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.”        Psalm 3:3

Read: Psalm 3 & Psalm 27

Prayer time using personal application.

Today, I will affirm that through your power, Jehovah Kabodhi, I will always bring your glory, magnificence, and splendor into every situation.  I affirm that you are the lifter of my head.   I also affirm that failure is never an option.  I have given to you the place of authority, and supreme “ruler ship” in my life.  Therefore, as I permit my will, emotions, and thoughts to be further conformed into your image – I am becoming that vessel of honor; yielded to your shield of protection.

May I never, ever become so overwhelmed by the nonsense of the adversary, that I forget that no weapon which he devises against me has the power nor the authority to prosper.  It is because of your place of lordship in my life, that you will delay but never deny anything necessary for my success until the proper time.    As my shield, your power is both offensive and defensive.  May I always remember, that as my Lord, it is through the sustaining power of your Holy Spirit, that you have sealed within me gifts and anointings that will be manifested in this season.   Lord, reveal to me every area where your lordship does not have the preeminent rule.  May I continually realize that in every area of my life where you are not Lord; I am committing self-sabotage.  I am opening the door; permitting an entrance for my enemies and placing a break, a split and wedge in your protective shield.

May I never cease to honor, and uphold you as my true Lord over and in every situation.  May my thoughts, reasonings and judgments never wander nor become double - minded…. because you are my Lord.  May I daily cast down every vain imagination and every high thing that attempts to exalt itself against your divine Lordship in my life.

Lastly, because you are my Lord, may I daily bring every thought captive to your obedience. Since every action is preceded by a thought, if I correct my thinking, and establish a “Lordship” mindset… totally dependent upon your principles….then my daily walk will be one that is worthy of your approval.

Thank you Lord that I will never walk in ungodly fear because I am perpetually protected, triumphant and successful in my every endeavor….. because of you, my Jehovah Kabodhi.

  I decree and declare that it is so…..In the name of Jesus.     

Day 19—The Day of Servanthood 

 “Eved HaKadosh ”

Jesus, The Holy Servant – (Acts 4:27)

“Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed.”  Acts 4:27 NIV

 Read: Matthew 20:26-28 (NIV); I Corinthians 7:22 (NASV); Philippians 2:7 (NIV); I Corinthians 9:19 (NIV)

Personally pray…

Prayer of Servanthood © 2003

(Extracted from my book, “Because I Know Your Word, I STAND” @2003)

Father God I thank you for the opportunity to be used of the Holy Spirit to minister to your people.......

Therefore, I have come to the realization that if I am to lead effectively, I must first become a servant.  I will therefore refine my “servanthood mentality” to the upmost.                                      

As I seek to obtain a more in-depth perception of those whom you have given me to serve, may I continue to curtail or “redirect” my own opinions.  May I submit to the spirit of humility that is required of me, to serve you effectively through serving them.

Lord, I realize the mandate on my life to constantly cultivate every area of my being.  I will never permit pride to mask itself in my life, thus enabling me to become nonchalant, self-satisfied, or complacent in my relationship with you.

You require an excellent commitment as a servant.  I therefore decree to align every aspect of my life to display the same.  I will continue to press into your sovereignty; as you servant.  I will lead with integrity, with expectation and with dedication…as your servant.  I am a faithful and obedient steward over all that you have positioned in my charge….as your servant This places me in the position to be totally used of you as your proficient servant at all times and in every situation that I may embark upon.

Daily may I continue to realize that  if I am going to be your profitable servant, I must strive, with my entire being to: love the unlovable, teach the unteachable, and reach the unreachable. Then and only then will I be able to demonstrate the servanthood qualities displayed by Christ, and have at my disposal the mentality to serve you to the fullest, by serving all men.

I decree and declare that it is so…..In the name of Jesus.  Amen.