God Has Called You To Greater

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

Take a look at where you are now – physically…. God has called you to a greater place.  Now consider your vocation or your daily routine…. God has called you to a greater place.  Think about your spiritual walk…. God has definitely called you to a greater place!  Whatever you have already achieved; whatever you have already accomplished; whatever ground you have already acquired – it just doesn’t matter – God has called you to a greater place!

Therefore, you must now embrace an expectation from the Lord, which will give Him no other alternative than to catapult you to your next place in Him.  The initial step is to acknowledge that you are called to greater! Then, seek to advance yourselves in the spiritual arena.  As you embark upon enhancing your walk in the realm of the Spirit…the manifestation of your “greater” will become a reality in every other area of your life.  For far too long we have settled and become “comfortable” in our current state. 

We must realize that we are all unique – alike …. But yet different.  God hasn’t made any two people from the exact same mold.  It has been discovered that even identical twins have at least one distinguishing characteristic.  Therefore we must engulf the notion that we are called to operate in our giftings as originals, and not carbon copies of anyone else.  I cannot excel to my greater place; spiritually, economically, socially, financially or emotionally until I establish the “God appointed”; unique goals for MY life.

Begin today with the determination that your mind will achieve a “greater place” status.  Increase your mental capacity by learning at least one new fact daily.  It isn’t necessary that it be spiritual in nature (however that would probably be of the most benefit in the long run!).   Advancing to my greater status begins with a thought… which when activated… will become a reality.

One of the surest and quickest avenues to obtaining my “greater” status is to assist and to push someone else on their road to acceleration.  Seeds sow will still manifest the same.  Whatever I sow – that will I also reap (Galatians 6:7).  This is a natural as well as a spiritual law!  Luke 6:38 is still relevant! Give and “IT” (what ever the IT was) shall be given to you.  Don’t judge – just give! (Matthew 7:1).  Don’t be stingy in your giving – because your return will reflect the same (II Corinthians 9:6).

Unless I can realize that I still have a “greater” within me; I will not advance to that place ….. and next year…  I will be in the same place that I am now!  Dreams are excellent and are necessary – however, the time has now arrived for our dreams to become the manifested reality of the “greater” that we all have within us!

“Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams].”         Ephesians 3:20

“Listen” and Obey

“But whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.” Proverbs 1:33 ESV

On last weekend I had the opportunity to go out of town and visit a church that I had not previously attended.  Today as I was reflecting, the Lord had me to focus on one specific incident.

One of the ministers in the service yesterday was asked to pray after the reading of the scripture.  However when this minister came forward, he stated that he wanted to give a brief praise report about something that had recently transpired.  Well, the pastor immediately and politely spoke up and asked him to please just pray at this time and that she would give him an opportunity to give his praise report at a later time.

Children of God…. we must listen and obey at all times.  It doesn’t matter whether we are in a service, on the job, or in the mall.  Where ever we are; we are subject to the rules that have been established.  Sometimes we fail to realize that when we are not disciplined and we begin to operate in what our flesh desires… no matter what the desire ….it just might be sin!  We must constantly ask ourselves “why” am I doing what I’m doing; “when” I’m doing it? Are my actions AND my motives to truly bring glory to God?

Now back to the service that I previously mentioned.  There was already a time allotted for Praise Reports.  We must never attempt to override the instructions that we are given in a service.  The proper method to handle any “leadings of the Spirit” that you may feel, would be to confer with the Pastor or the person in charge.  We must trust that God has and is directing the Leader.  The Leader is accountable to God.  Whatever they permit or disallow will be judged by God. 

When that person gave their Praise Report, it was in reference to a prestigious elevation that they are going to receive.  It was well received…. But I just wonder if it would have been more effective if it was spoken within the allotted time. 

We must be ever so careful this we listen to God and obey His instructions… exactly. He will never “speak to our spirit” and tell us to just do what “we” think is best when the order has already been established. 

Rebellion on ANY level is still as the sin of witchcraft (I Samuel 15:23)!  We must be ever so alert in these end times that we are not permitting the enemy to ever so carefully ease his into a situation.  When we are determined that we want God to truly get the glory; we will operate in total obedience…regardless.

Obedience requires submission.  Submission requires a broken and a freed spirit.  To receive a freed spirit, one must be willing to live a lifestyle that has been disciplined and heeding the voice of the Lord.  This entire process is sustained by an ongoing intimate relationship with the Lord.

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 2:7

The Walking Bible

“Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:”  II Corinthians 3:2

A while ago I was given the privilege of facilitating the workshop at a Sunday School Conference.  Their theme for the year was “The Walking Bible”.  So today, I’ll share a few of the key points and fully discuss them at a later date.

We must always remember that everyone who has accepted Christ as their Saviour is a Walking Bible.  However, our effectiveness is dependent upon our relationship with the Lord; and our ability to permit that relationship to govern our lives.   Our every move and decision reveals the impact that God – through His Word, has made on our lives. Although we’ve made adjustments and transformations – if the truth were to be told…..we still have a lot of work to do….and unresolved “issues” still lingering around.  If we were to take into account the amount of time – the years, that we have been saved; and measure it to our effectiveness in the realm of the spirit; the results usually would register very poorly and possibly even non - effective!

Four of the issues that were discussed are: Pride, Ignorance, Fear, and A Need for Mind Renewal.  This group is the foundational platform which anchors all of the reasons and excuses that we state for our lack of effectiveness as a Walking Bible. 

PRIDE: In most of our lives the spirit of pride has so “cloaked” itself, that we can’t even realize that it’s still there.  We can always observe this spirit in others – yet rarely recognize it in our own lives.

IGNORANCE: How much do we really know about Christianity?  Do you just know your Bible? What about any background or historical information concerning the cult of Christianity?  Can you dialect with anyone from another religion and intelligently defend your religious beliefs and convictions?  Can you relay pertinent information about who you believe God to be…. using “non-religious” language and phrases? 

FEAR: This is another multifaceted stone.  At the initial onset, most people would declare that they don’t have this issue.  However, when we really begin to dissect this spirit, we will realize that the spirit of fear is still more prevalent in our lives than we are aware of.

A NEED FOR MIND RENEWAL: I’ll just briefly state this, we are now living in the age of : ipads, ipods, socialcam, tablets, micro-chips, square, Skpe and the like.  Have you been mentally upgraded?  Are you still using spiritual tactics that are harmonious a typewriter using a cloth ribbon?

As I previously stated: “We are all walking Bibles”.  However we must be more determine to take the proper measures that would enhance our effectiveness.  The unsaved need us to make that undeniable impression upon their lives that will cause them to reconsider their current spiritual condition.

Our goal now must be to exemplify that type of Walking Bible that will cause God to be glorified…..and the enemy horrified!!!

We Submit in Praise ….. He Calms

“Your God is present among you a strong Warrior there to save you.  Happy to have you back, he’ll calm you with his love and delight you with his songs”. Zephaniah 3:17

                                                                                                                     (The Message Bible)

Although we all; who have breath in our bodies; are required to praise the Lord (Psalm 150:6); there is a type of praise that when offered, permits the presence of the Lord to enthrone us…. A type of praise that can only be released from a submitted vessel.  Psalm 22 references this type of praise. 

The Hebrew word “Tehillah” is one of the seven expressions for the word praise.  This type of praise is what we commonly refer to as singing in the Spirit.  The Tehillah praise is what I refer to as a “worshipper’s praise”. It’s typically referred to as spontaneous singing from your spirit.  Psalm 22:3 states, “Yet Thou art holy, O Thou who art enthroned upon the praises (tehillah) of Israel” (NIV).  The King James Version states: “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel”.

It is the Tehillah type of praise which can only be uttered when one is in a state of total: submission, humility and reverence to the Lord.  This type of praise, will usher in the inhabitation of the Lord’s presence.  It is this type of praise that will permit us the privilege of and the ability to, receive a personal audience with the Lord of Lord and the King of Kings.  Is it this type of praise that Zephaniah references. It is this type of praise that would be considered “inner court” praise…. And it is this type of praise that will permit us to have a disciplined ear; an ear which will have the ability to hear the Lord’s song.

Learn to sing in the Spirit.  Learn to enter into this type of praise on a regular basis.  The ability to remain focused in the face of adversity is related to the amount of discipline that we are able to receive; because one has been able to offer a reverential praise unto the Lord.    Let your ultimate goal be to offer unto the Lord this type of reverential praise. It is this type of praise that will result in our ability to maintain a level of peace and calmness in the midst of every storm.

Therefore, it is this type of praise and submission that will impact not only your daily walk – but will enable you with the endurance, and composure to walk above every circumstance in this life….  And to immediately recognize and bring to naught every diabolical plot, plan and scheme!

 
I shall confess you, Lord Jehovah, from my whole heart; in front of Kings I shall sing praise to you! (Aramaic Bible in Plain English)

What Are You Attracting?

“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.”  Proverbs 4:23 ESV

I recently heard about a young man who has implanted a small magnet into his finger.  He states that this implant gives him the ability to feel electrical currents that are undetectable to the naked eye but ever present. He attributes his ability to obtain superior knowledge, to the energy which is produced from this implanted magnet.

Of course, my mind immediately began to compare his implant with the “implant” that we who are believers in Christ have.  The more I heard about the details and effects of those magnetic implants that many people are getting – the more I began to relate them to OUR Spiritual “implant”.

Since you, as a believer, have the Holy Spirit living and abiding – implanted within you – what is His power within you attracting?  Think about it for a minute.  Unlike the magnet’s power which is uncontrollable – we are in complete control of our implant’s ability to effectively function. 

Are you permitting the power of the Holy Ghost to attract to you those who could really benefit from your experiences and your love for Him?  Are you attracting those who can assist you and increase you in some fashion; instead of decreasing or attempting to diminish who you are?     Also, have you attracted the attention of the enemy?  Does he regret and become annoyed with your presence?  Does he stand in wonder of what you are permitting the power of the Holy Ghost in you to do against his kingdom? What about your vocabulary?  What are your words attracting?   What about your demeanor, your attitude, and your motives? What are they attracting?

The question is not if, but what.  We are all attracting something.  However, we must make certain that we are allowing our responses to these attractions, to be governed and directed by the Word of God.  When we draw nigh to God he will draw nigh to us and make certain that we are attracting only what will be beneficial for the up building of His kingdom.  (“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”  James 4:8)

Colossians 3:16a tells us to let the word of God dwell richly within us.  As a result of His word dwelling in me; are to unsaved attracted to the love of Christ within me….that flow from me?  What about the sick, the broken, the hurting, the abused and the misused Saints? 

So I ask again; What are you attracting?   We must make certain that we are attracting only what will be beneficial to the kingdom of God….as well as to bring destruction to every diabolical plot, plan and scheme of the enemy!

Still No Peace!!!

As I communicate with many of you it is apparent that a majority of you are still not allowing the peace of God to rule your lives. You must remember that peace is not the absence of troubles, trials, sickness and the like.  Peace is displayed in a mindset that is totally reliant on God for wholeness - and not our circumstances or situations. 

It is only as I understand what peace isn’t; that I can appreciate the concept that peace means: nothing missing and nothing broken.  One of the statements that I often repeat is…”Don’t lose your focus.”   So again, Saints of God I say…. “Don’t lose you focus!!!”  Set your affections on things above – and not on the things of this world (Colossians 3:2).  We can enjoy some of the benefits and pleasures of this world (as long as they don’t contradict the principles of God!) – …But we are not to love them…. nor permit them to dominate our thinking, actions and our motives (I John 2:15-17).

So as a personal application; when I totally comprehend the love that God has for me – then I will permit Him to be the LORD in my life.. … Then it won’t be a struggle to surrender every area of my mind unto Him.  Consequently…   at this point.. the process of renewing my mind can begin.   Now, I can finally begin to absorb the concept that – it is because of God’s love for me – no good thing will He withhold from me (Ps. 84:11).  

Therefore, whatever is attempting to invade your “space” today; whatever is causing you to doubt the Word of God; whatever adverse or negative spirit has “moved in” and brought their relatives,  the cat and the dog! – Whatever is drowning out the presence of God….. MUST GO!   I therefore, authorize you today to say ENOUGH is ENOUGH!  Today is eviction day! Kick out every squatter and illegal resident!  Allow the legal resident; in the person of the Holy Ghost, to once again come in and have a free reign of your house.  When He comes in and has access to every area of your house – then he will bring with Him the peace of God that can surpass all understand. 

To have Peace….stand on the Promises…..and walk in the Provision.    If we are going to be triumphant in these endtimes, then we must learn to allow our minds to rest in our all wise, all knowing, everlasting Father…..who has, who is and who will always be.. more than enough! 

As sang by: Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

Jehovah Jireh, my provider ;You're more than enough for me.
Jehovah Rapha, You're my healer, by Your stripes, I have been set free.

Jehovah Shamma, You are with me and You supply all of my needs;
You are more than enough, You are much more than enough,
You are more than enough for me.

..Simply because He is MORE than enough…. I will receive HIS peace….  REGARDLESS!!!!

Joy Produces Strength!

Read Psalm 43 and Nehemiah 8

 “……...This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”                                                             

                                                                                                                                 Nehemiah 8:10

Today, Lord may I begin to comprehend that you ARE my joy.   May I realize that my mind must be renewed to the concept, that my ability to remain joyful (full of joy) in the midst of adversity, is one of the battles that must be won.  Consequently, Lord I will totally understand that you and you alone are the nucleus of my joy.  Everything that is necessary for my “JOY” has its basis, its focus and its core emanating from you Lord.

Therefore today I invite you, Holy Spirit to infiltrate my mind, and to release me from every thought pattern that is not God ordained ……. thus permitting me to remain joyful throughout this day.  I decree that I will not allow any circumstance that may arise today cause me to lose my focus.  May I always remain cognizant that joy is not an emotion –but a mindset.

So I thank you now, for your guidance, your direction and the provision of your “joy” - that will be required for this day.  May the joy that you bring empower me and offer to me the foundation which is vital concerning my ability to stand strong today and always.  May I not be a partaker nor the recipient of anything that will allow my mind to wander….. Thus causing ME to surrender my joyous state.  Because I am in control of my thoughts – I choose to focus on only what will bring: joy, peace and happiness.  May I KNOW that because I do have the JOY of the Holy Ghost – no demonic force has the power nor the authority to steal it.

May I continue to reflect on the strength and encouragement of our patriots who walked by faith as they sang:

 “This joy that I have, the world didn’t give it and the world can’t take it away.” 

Right Connections

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

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

Connections should be for the purpose of increase.  Therefore I should be either the provider or the receiver – but increase is a must.  Wrong, non-productive relationships would be considered one of those “weights which does so easily beset us” (Hebrews 12:1). 

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

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

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

I would like to encourage you to listen to the voice of the Lord.  Far too often some Christians feel as though they too “holy” to be connected to or associated with various groups of people;  even for the sake of ministry.  My only response is this: If someone is in darkness, and you have a light, how can they come out of the darkness if you refuse to go to them and shine your light?  How will they find the correct path out of their darkness?  The blind can’t lead the blind!  Now I’m not condoning, permitting or agreeing with sin….. Sin is sin and is not to be tolerated.  However, we should never feel as though we are too “anointed” to be connected with those to whom God leads us to.  Nor should we attempt to discourage those who are being used of the Lord in areas where we are not comfortable or called to minister in.   In these last days; the Lord needs to connect those Saints who have a true love for Him … and are willing to share that love… to those who are still struggling in various areas.

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

Just Trust Him!

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

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

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

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

There are times when we have difficulty in trusting fully in God because we forget that He is the Almighty; the one and only all wise omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient God!  He has no colleagues, contemporaries, or equal.  We seem to forget that NOTHING takes him by surprise!  He already knows exactly everything that will ever transpire in our lives!  Therefore we can’t conclude or compare our decisions concerning what He will do in a given situation, with what others have or have not done to or for us. In other words, because someone has failed or disappointed you – you shouldn’t base your trust in God against such.  God will ALWAYS base His EVERY move concerning you on His undying, uncompromising, unconditional, unwavering love for you.  That’s why we can trust Him!  That’s why it’s so, so, sweet to trust in Jesus.  And because His Word CAN’T fail – because He has promised that His word won’t return to Him void – we can take Him at His Word!  Hallelujah!!!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

He's gonna fullfill every promise to you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who Does My Love Cover?

“Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.”     I Peter 4:8

I’m reminded of an illustration that I saw many years ago concerning God’s love for us – and how we are to mirror the same.  The love of God has no boundaries, limitations or restrictions.   His love is totally unconditional and transcends every sin that we could ever imagine.  He has a love for ALL of mankind and so desires for us to: first be recipients of that love…and then to share it with EVERYONE that we encounter.

Now, for the most part, we have no real issue or reserve assuming the position of the one who is the recipient.  However, we then become like the unmerciful person in Matthew 18:33 . When God extends His love to us and forgives us – we fail to permit that same virtue to permeate our spirits.  We will often become judgmental, analytical, insensitive and downright hypercritical concerning the faults and failures of others.

In the illustration that I mentioned earlier; a person was placed in the center of the circle.  This person had several cards pinned to them that bore the names of various sinful deeds and lifestyles.  Then another person had a very large quilt with only one card pinned to it. This one card read, “God’s Love”. The quilt; had the words, “God’s Love” on it was large enough to completely cover the person who was sitting in the circle.  The quilt was placed over the person who was sitting in the middle of the circle. This person, seated in the circle could no longer be seen because they were completely covered with the quilt. Was the person still in the center? Yes.  But they couldn’t be seen because God’s Love (the quilt) had completely covered them!

So I ask you.. Who does your love cover?  Do you have the love of God that is COMPLETELY unconditional? Or…do you make excuses for the boundaries and the stipulations that you’ve placed on what “you call” God’s love?  We must boldly stand for those who have not yet had the ability to experience the love of God.   Once someone has encountered the true love of God –they will turn to Him…and “HE” will bring the deliverance.  He will give them the ability and desire to turn totally unto Him.  (Note: While we are never to make provisions for, nor sanction  any acceptance of sinful acts or lifestyles of others; we must learn how to DEMONSTRATE genuine, unconditional love to all.)

Remember that God needs US…the body of Christ to SHOW.. not just talk and sing about His love.  I’m often asked about the connections that I have with certain groups of people.  My response is always – if I don’t show them God’s love….then who will? 

Let’s be more adamant in our daily walk concerning our love walk.  The world is in dire need of true love.  And…. Yes,  they are looking for love in all of the wrong places.  However, when they do come to the right place which is the house of the Lord; and when they encounter the correct people – who are the current day disciples of Christ….. Will they find the love of God … that covers?  We have what they need – but we must be willing to let go of our prideful mindsets, venture outside of the walls of our buildings, and “show some love”.

So….. Ask yourself, “Does my love cover?”  If not…..why not?

 “….. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.  John 8:11

Read slowly and thoroughly.

Prayer Recognizing God’s Wisdom ©2003

Father God, in Jesus’ name, I come to you.     I thank you for the wisdom to acknowledge you in all of your ways. 

Your word declares that Wisdom is the principle thing - “The foremost ingredient”.  So I come to seek your WISDOM above all else.  With your wisdom, I will accomplish every task to the perfected level that pleases you.

Your wisdom demands that we alter and amend every thought, every motive, every dream - every issue of life and bring them subject to your divine will.  Your wisdom demands integrity to the utmost in every area from the most minute to the most extravagant.

Your wisdom promotes and provokes us to diligently press towards the mark of that higher calling in Christ Jesus. 

Your wisdom orchestrates the tenacity, the endurance, the discipline, the assertiveness, the guidance and the forbearance required by me to discern and uproot every satanic and demonic weapon formed against me.  Therefore as your word declares, these weapons formed will not be able to accomplish nor produce the tasks that were assigned to them.

Father, I thank you for the wisdom to press beyond the veil.  The wisdom to no longer be content on this level, or in this place - the wisdom to seek you and you alone for my divine direction as I advance in my next dimension.

Because of my uniqueness in you, and because I am fearfully and wonderfully made, personally designed and hand crafted by you and for you; I have learned to appreciate all that you have placed within me.   I have learned how to willingly surrender my entire being - spirit, soul and body to you.  You alone and those whom YOU send to me have the wisdom to shape and mold me into your divine vessel.  I thank you for the wisdom to embrace my uniqueness in you.  It is through the revelation of that uniqueness that I am motivated to realize the fact that I will “do things differently”.  Therefore, I decree that I will pattern my life after Jesus and those qualities he displayed.

Lastly Father, I thank you that I have received an in-depth understanding regarding your wisdom.  I can now certainly acknowledge the fact that wisdom is the principle thing.  I will now strive as never before to bring every thought, word and deed captive to your obedience… and in so doing, I will be privy to that degree of wisdom, which will permit me to operate from the platform of your Kingdom Principles. With your wisdom guiding me, I now know that I can be of a greater threat to the kingdom of darkness – because the greater one is definitely abiding within me and daily alerting me to every diabolical trap that has been set for me.                            

Your Samuel Is On The Way!

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” Galatians 6:9

The Lord has instructed me to remind you that all of your praying and all of your fasting has not been in vain.  When we consider the example which was given to us by Hannah; we can glean an insight into the diligence which is required to remain faithful until your “Samuel” has been manifested.

The Lord has said that we must read once again the story of Hannah (I Samuel 1.)  We must remember that Hannah’s womb was closed by the Lord.   There was nothing wrong with the seed that was sown.   The seed had been sown into good ground.  The potential of the ground to produce wasn’t the problem.  God had intervened and would not permit the ground to receive and produce the seed.

God today is saying that for many of you, you have sown good seed, into good ground; however His appointed time for your manifestation had not arrived.  He has permitted you to be ridiculed, criticized, and mocked….. Even by those in the house of the Lord.  (Remember Hannah’s actions and intents were even mistaken by the man of God!)  Yet, you, like Hannah have continued to remain faithful and to endure through every test and trial. 

We must remember that as we have been awaiting the arrival of our Samuel – our level of faith has been greatly increased and our stamina intensified.  Birthed within us; as we waited, has been a powerful level of humility and strength.  This dimension from which we now operate permits us to be a synonymous to a “bull walking through a china store”… however not breaking a single dish!  The wait has so fortified our faith and our relationship with the Lord – to the extent that we have become that profitable servant; totally sold out for the Him.

No one had to remind Hannah of the vow that she had made to the Lord.  If you have not arrived at the place in your walk with the Lord that you can honor your vows made to Him without the assistance of anyone – then you are not ready for the birth of your Samuel!

However, if you have prayed like Hannah did; remained faithful like Hannah did; endured the times of disappointment, discouragement and seemingly being defeated year in and year out – like Hannah did…..then you will receive you Samuel…..just as Hannah did!

Be encouraged….. God’s appointed time IS at hand!  You will receive your Samuel – just as Hannah did – simply because God is not slack concerning Him promises!  Every one of his promises are YEA & AMEN….. WHATEVER He has promised will; without a shadow of a doubt… come to past…….In HIS divine timing!

^“ For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”  Habakkuk 2:3

Where is God?

“The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God……….”     Psalm 14:1

When we consider the word “heart” we can observe that it is composed of several smaller words.  To name a few we have: he, ear, art, and hear.  So that reminds me that there is an “ART” to way that God composed my heart.  “HE” must always initiate and govern my “EAR” so that I will “HEAR” exactly what I should permit to enter my “HEART”.

So now … Where is God?  What place or position have I given to Him with regards to my heart?  What is flowing from my heart?  Do my actions imitate those which openly declare that there is no God?  Have I purposed in my heart to permit it to be governed by what I’ve heard from Him? 

Well, as I proceed throughout my day; my response to whatever I may encounter; will reflect the position of authority and obedience that God reserves within my heart.  I must daily ask myself, “Are my: attitude, disposition, reasonings, decisions, temperament, etc. controlled by a heart that may indicate to others “There is no God”?”

I must have an ear to hear the voice of the Lord so that I will have the ability to guard my heart.  Far too often we have permitted our own opinions or the opinions of those who we thought were leading us correctly, to clog our spiritual ears.  Therefore we have permitted our hearts to be governed by our own thoughts – and by what we reasoned to be correct.  We’ve made foolish decisions; and usually repeated the some mistakes over and over.  

To advance to the position that I can operate from the plateau which is governed by the wisdom of God, I must hear and recognize His voice.  To hear His voice I must open the ears of my heart.  To recognize His voice I must know (understand) His Word and spend time in His presence. 

Again I ask the question, “Where is God”?  Prayerfully, at the end of each day; someone’s path that you’ve crossed will be able to say that they saw and/or sensed the presence of God flowing from within you. 

Why?...... Because you had an EAR to HEAR what HE was instructing you to do….And your actions have been motivated from a HEART which isn’t perfect yet ….. But …which is reflecting that ART of the perfected love of the Lord.

Patience in the Hallway

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12

There are times when God has chosen to display His attribute of “silence”.  Now, although this character quality isn’t listed or written in any of the information concerning our Father; if you know Him to any extent; you can identify this as one of His traits.

So, what have you personally learned from God’s silence?  I have discovered that when we are in the “hallway” God chooses to test our ability to find our way to the next room.   When one door is nailed shut…. And we are waiting for another to open – we are in the “hallway”.    When we have difficult decisions to make and God is silent – we’re in the “hallway”.  When you’ve fasted, you’ve prayed and you’ve sown your seed for your need…. Yet God is silent…. You’re in the “hallway”…. Despite your cries and pleas….. God is STILL not saying a word!  And, the dilemma that intensifies our agony is the fact that we have no doubt that God CAN move in an instant!  So what’s happening? Why isn’t God moving…. Or at least saying SOMETHING?

It is in these times that we must realize that God is attempting to mature us and teach us how to patiently trust Him – even when we don’t hear Him.  He is attempting to elevate us to our next place in Him.   In other words when we find ourselves in the hallway; we should immediately realize that we’re being tested.  God has placed us in a “proving ground” to enlighten us, and to inform our enemy of our growth since our last visit to the “hallway”.  We are daily growing and advancing to new heights in the Lord.  Yet these increases are internal; can’t be seen – but can be shown.  So what other way can our adversary know that we’ve grown in the Lord, except by the fact that when he tempts us with prior weaknesses – and we don’t yield as we previously would have?    

Therefore, as I’ve often said, “Don’t expect God to answer you when you’re being tested – because the teacher never talks during a test.”  God knows all things, so our testing isn’t to reveal to Him information that He isn’t aware of.  Our testings are for us...and the adversary. 

How do we learn to be patient in the hallway? 

1. By openly acknowledging that God loves me and IS working all things for my good. 

2. Finding a scripture to use as a focal point of strength and encouragement.  Read it regularly throughout the day.

3. Refuse to speak doubt filled, fear related words.

4. Remember that you will not progress to your next level until you’ve passed the hallway test.  Therefore you will repeat this same test until you can walk through the hallway; without pacing and wring your hands….But patiently walking to the next door, and waiting for it to open. 

So when God is silent, stand on what you know.  Don’t permit the enemy to make YOU further delay the process by focusing on your “hallway” conditions.  Remember..in the natural,  things appear quite differently than they really are.  Never permit your faith in God to waver – regardless.  If we would begin to stand on the promises of God in the difficult situations, then we would realize that when we are in the hallway, that’s the prime time to encourage others.  Although doubt and fear will attempt to discourage you – but determined that you will rest in the comfort of your knowledge of our omniscient, omnipotent Father and His promises to never leave nor forsake you.

(Faith + Trust+ Hope) – (Fear, Doubt, Unbelief) = PATIENCE!

“But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” Romans 8:25 ESV

Lord, YOU are my strength!

“JEHOVAH UZZI”

(The Lord my strength - Psalms 28:7)

“My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. “  Psalm 73:26                                                  New Living Translation (©2007)

Read Psalm 28 & Psalm 73

As we have daily encountered the circumstances of life, we have realized that we have only maintained the ability to yet be triumphant because of an inner strength that has been and always will be prevalent.   This strength is not our strength, but the strength of the Lord.

The word in the above text for strength translates as “rock”.  Lord, may I remember that you are my perpetual “ROCK”.  When all else fails—you will remain constant.  Even if there comes a time when my health, wealth, and spirit become overwhelmed—you are still my strength.  Daily may I never attempt to stand in my own strength.  Daily may I acknowledge you in all of my ways.  Daily may I remember that I CAN do all things through your strength which is that rock, that pillar and that fortress forever in my life.

So Lord, when everything: every foundation, every prop, every  support system that has been erected in my life—is shaken….may I never, never, never forget that YOU are my strength…..my rock. 

May I fully understand and cling to the essence of an old favorite hymn which states:

                            “On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand”.

Dottie Rambo wrote a song that influenced many other song artists to re-record it entitled, “I Go TO THE ROCK”.   Permit the lyrics to minister the healing, peace, and the stability that only a rock can confirm.

I Go To The Rock

Where do I go when there's nobody else to turn to?  Who do I talk to when nobody wants to listen?
Who do I lean on when there's no foundation stable?

I go to the rock - I know He's able - I go to the rock.

The Lord is the rock I go to the rock for my salvation; I go to the stone that the builders rejected,
I run to the mountain and the mountain, he stands by me.

When the Earth all around me is sinking sand. On Christ, the solid rock I stand,
When I need a shelter, when I need a friend….. I go to the rock.

Where do I go, where do I go; When the storms of life are threatening?
Who do I turn to when those winds of sorrows blow?  And is there a refuge in the time of tribulation?

I go to the rock - I know He's able - I go to the rock!

Refreshing Rain…Restoring Rain

“You, O God, did send a plentiful rain; You did restore and confirm Your heritage when it languished and was weary”.                    Psalm 68:9 AMP

Note: Today’s meditation is prophetic in nature and therefore might not be totally comprehended by everyone.  Nevertheless, please feel free to contact me for clarification. 

A drenching rain is coming!  However, some people won’t be able to reap the advantages of this rain … because it a spiritual rain.  This rain will pour down upon the earth – to saturate those saints who are waiting in great expectation of it.  The Lord is sending this rain: to cleanse, to heal, to restore and to maintain. 

The rain will be felt as you prophetically dance in the presence of the Lord to the beat that is within your spirit.  Worship in this rain.  Listen in this rain.  Obey in this rain. Receive your next instructions and strategic plans in this rain!

Everyone won’t even know that it’s raining.  Others will know that something is occurring – but won’t understand exactly what.  Still others will know “ABOUT” the rain – but haven’t developed the type of relationship with the Lord that will afford them the opportunity to reap any of the benefits from it.

The effects which are being released from this rain are eternal.  They won’t wear off – but will wear in.  This rain will cleanse.  This rain will awaken.  This rain will unlock.  This rain will release.

This rain will also confirm.  This rain will also seal. This rain will also bind.  This rain will also initiate a coagulation process for spiritual wounds that have bleeding for years.

Revelation, manifestation, transformation and reformation…. All benefits from soaking in this rain.  No umbrellas for this rain…. Only acquiring an enriched, a totally refreshing and an awesomely rewarding experience.  

So get free….. and Dance, Dance, Dance IN THIS RAIN!

Lord, I’m Available

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

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

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

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

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

To be certain that I remain available I must:

1. Spend quality time in the Lord’s presence ( Matthew 6:9-15; Psalm 92:2)
2. Develop a pattern of fasting on a regular basis  (Matthew 6:16)
3. Read your sword daily  (Psalm 27:8)
4. Don’t ignore the guidance of the Holy Spirit (I Kings 19:12)
5. Live a lifestyle that is so committed to the Lord, that the devil finds no open door within us to gain an access. (Galatians 2:20,21; John 14:30b; Romans 12:1,2)
6. Know that the Lord wants to use me and can use me.

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

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

^“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”                                                                                                                     Galatians 2:20

You Are Someone’s Bridge

  “Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

Although you may not have viewed it from this perspective; but God has birthed within you the ability to be a bridge for someone else.  He has given to you the wisdom, compassion and the authority to safely transport someone from their current place to a new place in Him. 

If we were to do a little research in the area of architecture, we would discover that there are basically four different types of bridges (sources vary to the exact number; with some listing up to seven).  Nevertheless, all of them are responsible for transporting; and for being that reliable connection between at least two points.

The purpose of the bridge is to provide passage OVER a given situation.  Therefore it matters not the type, weight limitations, or composition of the bridge – its job is to transport OVER obstacles.

As you view yourself as someone’s bridge; you will realize that it is your responsibility to undergo routine, scheduled “maintenance checks”.  You can’t neglect your spiritual, nor your physical overhauls.  You need to be effective and preserve under carrying the weight of another.   Wisdom is the key.  Consequently, you must always remain cognizant of the fact that EVERYTHING you are involved in; positive or negative; will affect your durability, your tenaciousness and your level of sensitivity.   God has already given to each of us the character qualities which are necessary for us to perform efficiently according to the type of bridge that He designed us to be.

Don’t permit the enemy to cloud your mind or to disillusion you!  YOU are someone’s bridge.  Although you may not have considered it - nor be aware of who that person(s) is(are); someone is watching you and is depending on you to carry them over their next obstacle in life.

Lastly, remember that the bridge offers hope.  A bridge makes the unspoken statement that – “this is not the end of your journey”.  A bridge proclaims that, “I am your ACCESS OVER the problem, difficulty, hindrance, obstruction or blockage”.

In some battles the Lord will tell us to stand and to fight.  Then, there are others where He instructs us to simply “take a bridge OVER” them!  In other words, speak to it and keep it moving!  It is in those instances when you; as a God ordained “bridge”….can be used of Him to assist someone over their troubled water … by reassuring them that His undying, unconditional love…. Still yet prevails.

So remember…. you are someone’s bridge. Stand strong, stay focused, and be tenacious.  Regardless of what you experiencing ….. you are a vital asset to someone as they pursue their destiny.

“We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” Romans 15:1 (ESV)

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.

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 the 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 on 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 place of discipline that requires us to be more authentic than in days past.  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)!

So What’s the Verdict?

You are arrested.  The accusation in question: Being a follower of Christ – a Christian.

Will there be found enough evidence to convict you?  Let’s see!

When your family is questioned, what will their responses reveal?

What impact, if any, have you made on your neighbors and in your community groups?

When your fellow co-workers and your friends are interrogated – what will their reactions be?

What will be the findings recorded in your check book, from your bank statement and regular purchases made?

And let’s not forget your computer.  What will the history of sites that you’ve visited, a search engine or the social groups that you are involved in support?

If your picture were to be shown to people who may not know you personally – but see you on a regular basis; what would be their opinion of the type of person that you appear to be?

If your picture were shown in the a few clubs or to a few servers at the restaurants that you frequent….. what would be said?

If your picture were to be shown to some of the merchants where you shop – would they say that their inventory always displays a decrease upon your departure – even though you may not make a purchase?

And let’s not forget about showing an active concern for: the sick or homebound, those who are incarcerated, the homeless, the widows, the orphans and the elderly.

So think about it.  Are you really making enough of an impact and leaving a “paper trail” that will, without a shadow of a doubt, be able to conviction you of being a follower of Christ?

We all have “works” that are on display for others to observe.  However, we are instructed to let our lights shine so that our GOOD works will be seen. (Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”)

Our ultimate purpose for being here is to draw others to the Lord.  In other words, the only reason why we are still here is that we still have more work to do….more souls to impact for the kingdom of God.  Matthew 5:14 in the Message Bible says it like this:

“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept.”

So if you were accused of being a follower of Christ, and based upon the evidence that would be gathered - would the jury quickly submit a verdict of absolutely guilty… without a shadow of a doubt?  Would they be dead locked? Or would they submit a decision of not guilty?  Think about it…… begin today to acquire more evidence to physically support your inward conviction!