So How Spiritually Mature Are You?

Read: II Peter 1:1-11

Our journey towards Spiritual Maturity requires us to focus on those character traits which are often not viewed in their proper relevancy with regards to our spiritual growth.  So how spiritually mature are you?  Spiritual maturity has no bearing on our natural age.  Therefore one can never assume that simply because a person have obtained a level of maturity in the natural, that they are spiritually mature.  Although spiritual maturity reflects our “weightiness” in the realm of the spirit – our journey is enhanced by our actions in the physical realm. We must always remember that maturity is a process that requires us to “decrease” if we are going to “increase”. 

As we seek to increase, there are three pillars from which our spiritual maturity should take its platform. Proper growth requires: Effort, Diligence and Discipline.

I view the process of advancing in our growth towards spiritual maturity as a vine which grows.  When we observe plants which have been well groomed, we will notice that the gardener has taken the time, effort and the diligence to discipline and to guide the vines into the direction or pattern of intended growth.

Our actions must be as focused as those of the gardener.  Spiritual maturity doesn’t just occur without us assuming our places of responsibility.   God has given to us the proper tools (spiritual weapons, gifts of the spirit, etc) that will assure us that our growth will produce that fruit which will remain (fruit of the spirit).  Our level of spiritual maturity is measured by the ability that we have obtained; that permits the manifestation of a “spirit governed” versus a “self-controlled” lifestyle.

Effort must be exerted by us to restrain ourselves from ingesting irrelevant motives, concepts, and principles.  We must adhere to a mentality the will remain diligent and militant - as the daily onset of diabolical manifestations occur.   Above all, we must establish a standard of living that “mirrors” discipline.

Therefore a decrease must occur in whatever is not required for our individual spiritual diets.  A decrease must come in the area of those “weights” – which are not necessarily sinful acts…. but are those things which are no longer applicable to our progression.

As we advance the more along this road to spiritual maturity, we will realize that we are not as easily distracted by the occurrences of life.  Impatience, repeated latenesses, constant rushing, a lack of control over our emotions, “road rage”, etc. are all examples of some of the fruit that has been produced from a spiritually immature person.

So let’s take a step away from ourselves, and look to evaluate where we really stand.   We, who know the Word, must SHOW that we have the ability to adhere it to our lives – and not just read it using to it highlight the downfalls of others.  Remember – get the beam out of your eye first!  (Matthew 7:3-5).... Then we will be able to properly advance on this journey towards spiritual maturity.  Then not only will we notice our growth – but others, especially our adversary, will not have the advantage of engaging us in acts of immaturity!

Reach Beyond the Break….And Keep It Moving!!!

 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed ; we are perplexed , but not in despair ; 9 Persecuted , but not forsaken ; cast down , but not destroyed ;  Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.                      II Corinthians 4: 8-10

As it is, there's not much chance of that. You know for yourselves that we're not much to look at. We've been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we're not demoralized; we're not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we've been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn't left our side; we've been thrown down, but we haven't broken. What they did to Jesus, they do to us - trial and torture, mockery and murder; what Jesus did among them, he does in us - he lives! 

                                                                                                  II Corinthians 4:8-10 (The Message Bible)

Life has a way of introducing “interruptions” which usually are unexpected and have a tendency to throw us off course for a second.  The Lord wants to remind us that whatever causes a break in our daily flow should only present a momentary pause.  We must reach beyond that break …and keep it moving!  Delays are many times unavoidable.  However, a delay must only present a “comma” in our lives – and not a “period”.  Reach beyond every break and keep it moving.

Below I’ve added another prayer.  Be blessed and always remember never stop, never quit,  never give up or give in – reach beyond that break…..and KEEP IT MOVING!!!

____________________________________________________________________________

Power To Press Beyond

(©2003)

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

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

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

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

Growing and still maturing in the process, I press.

Awaiting your divine intervention……..

I press, I press, I PRESS!!!

Ungodly Fear Steals Our Time

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

 II Timothy 1:7

One of the most valuable tools that a warrior has at their disposal is time. Strategies and strategic planning are only effective when implemented at their correct timing. On more occasions than we realize, ungodly fear is the underlying culprit for both; our delays and our hasty decisions.

In this season, we must stay alert in the realm of the spirit so that we can first recognize this spirit of fear and then uproot it. We must not become distracted with “important – unimportant” issues. A sharpened discernment is required if we are going to be effective against this current move of the enemy on our family members, our young people, our friends…. and everyone that we are concerned about.

As the end of time as we now know it rapidly approaches, we must understand that various demonic spirits will mask themselves as never before.  For example, we must recognize that the reason that many of our young people are dishonoring their bodies with the various markings and piercings is because they battling with the spirits of rejection and of course “fear”.  They are looking for a sense of “belonging”; and they fear not being accepted.

However, we must be able to discern these and other end-time moves of the enemy. This type of discernment is only released in us as we surrender unto the Lord an obedience to Him as never before. An obedience produced by love and discipline – not fear, accompanied with preparation… is vital.

I also hear the Lord saying that now it is of the utmost importance that seasoned warriors maintain an alertness in their spirits that can only be produced by a disciplined ear - disciplined to hear my voice said the Lord - even when I don't speak!

So value your time and your timing.  Your adversary will attempt to cause you waste time in the realm of the spirit by placing emergency situations in your presence. These will attempt to alarm you to the point that you will lose your focus; thus opening the doorway for the spirit of fear to re-enter.  Warriors! You must know that you are only to respond to any situation, as you are led by the spirit of the Lord - especially when a "crisis" arises. The Lord is saying that we must remember although events may startle us and surprise us; He has already known about them before the foundation of this world! So don't waste time by becoming entangled with “last minute” situations and circumstances.   Stay so connected to the Lord that you will recognize the warning signs that He gives to you prior to the onset of tragedies, crisis and the like.   Many of these are only coming to you as a distraction in an attempt to cause you to momentary divert your attention - thus causing you to miss your strategically planned timing.

Learn to recognize ungodly fear.  Locate its access.  Then aggressively advance to eradicate it; to seal its entrance; and to replace that spirit with the power and the authority of God.  

As always, stay focused and refuse to be victimized and to waste valuable time; by any invasion of ungodly fear.

“… After all, we don’t want to unwittingly give Satan an opening for yet more mischief—we’re not oblivious to his sly ways!”             II Corinthians 2:11 (The Message Bible)

Profanity in the Pulpit

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

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

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

.    

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

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

God has said:

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

My leaders must become more equipped and establish an ear to hear my voice if they are going to win, to triumph and to spoil the strategic plans of the enemy in these last days.  Lowering one’s standards to conform to what is pleasing to the flesh will never be as effective as standing on and trusting in the pure authority of My Word.”

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

Love That Produces a Servant

“Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.  If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.”  John 13:13 & 14

We must always bear in mind that everything that Christ exampled was motivated from the platform of a heart that generated unconditional love.  He was attempting to show us that it matters not what the task; if love (I Corinthians 13) is present; then that love will override any other emotion that we may experience.

A true servant has a heart of unconditional love for their master.   Therefore, they place no limitations on the duties that they graciously will perform – for their master. 

When Jesus washed His disciple’s feet; He was mirroring to them a display of His unconditional love for them – which produced the ability to become a servant.

Far too often when we read this narrative; we focus on doing the work of a servant.  However, we must also realize that doing the work of a servant, which is not motivated from a heart of love, is simply fulfilling a responsibility and not showing an act of compassion.   God’s desire for us is that we are so filled with His love; that whatever task we must undertake, we will be motivated from a heart of that love.    He desires that His love has so renewed our thought patterns; that is has produced the mentality of a true servant.

A true servant must possess the ability to:

S – Sacrifice ; Philippians 3:7-8 ESV  “But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake    of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.”

E – Encourage (others):  1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”

R – be Reliable : 1 Corinthians 15:58 ESV

“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

V – be Vigilant: Ephesians 6:10-18 ESV

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,….”

A -  be Alert: 1 Peter 5:8 ESV

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

N - Never Give Up: Galatians 6:9 ESV                                                                                     “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

T – be Trustworthy: 1 Corinthians 4:2 ESV

“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.”

So to recap….a true servant has received that degree of unconditional love that has now produced within them the mentality of: Sacrifice, Encouragement, Reliability, Vigilance, Alertness, Trustworthiness…and above all…they will Never Give Up!

 Are your expressions of servanthood motivated from the platform of responsibility or compassion? 

To do the work of a servant is commendable.

However, to have the heart of a servant is exceptional and requires a renewed mindset!  Remember man sees WHAT we do….but God knows WHY we are doing it.”

What About YOUR Praise??

“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.  Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken.  At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose."               

                                                                                                               Acts 16:25 & 26

I’m one who doesn’t believe that there are coincidences in the occurrences of life.  I believe that every single thing has a purpose and a reason for transpiring.    I also know that everything - every detail; that is recorded in the Bible has relevance and is significant. 

Therefore, whenever I’ve read this story about Paul and Silas, I’ve noticed how very descriptive it is.  Now, Paul and Silas were praying and singing – but why was it necessary to record the actions of the other prisoners?  Could it be that we were supposed to be made aware of the great impact that their praise and worship experience had on others? 

So the sake of time…let’s fast forward.  What about YOUR praise?  What impact does it have on those who are bound?  Does your praise radiate to the extent that it will cause an effect, which will promote a ground moving, door opening, chain shaking release in the realm of the spirit?  

Effectiveness in the realm of the spirit is not determined by the intensity or the loudness of a sound. The sound must authoritatively be released from someone who does not feel threaten by the actions or motives of those who are opposing them.  

Paul and Silas, although locked in prison – were free men!  It is only when we obtain the ability to remain focused and free – regardless to where we are; without regards to who we are around; and when we can yet take a “stand” in the midst of every chaotic situation….  that our praise will have the potency and will resonate with the influence as theirs did.

As a result of their praying and singing – the very earth itself could not be contained!  We must realize that they didn’t wait until they were in prison and THEN begin to develop a relationship with the Lord. Their motive was not to break open the prison doors.  Their motive was to do what should come natural for all of us – to simply give God the praise IN all things. 

So back to our original question, “What about YOUR praise?”.   In terms of effectiveness….  Is it powerful or pitiful?   In terms of sincerity…Is it heartfelt or hollow? 

Anyone can praise God, however not everyone can render an “effective praise”.  You are not called to be ordinary.   God has called, appointed and anointed you to be one of the ones whose praise WILL loosen the demonic entanglements of others.  

Remember that this type of praise won’t be developed during your worship service!  It must be cultivated during those times of intimacy with the Lord…..Then released at the appropriate time.

I would like to encourage you to re-read this story about Paul and Silas AGAIN!– this time with your focus on the details.  Then ask yourself “How can my praise render a more effective impact in the realm of the spirit?”  

Seek the face of God and press into Him to the extent that your praise will automatically shift to the next level and “Break every chain, Break every chain, BREAK EVERY CHAIN!!!!”

Peace and Blessings Everyone:

At this time I am experiencing a little "snag" with my computer and am unable to send the Daily Emails.  Please believe God with me that this issue will soon, very soon be rectified!!!  Thanks!!!!!

God’s Assurance

“Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.”  Hebrews 10:22

We can always excel in every area of our lives.  This is possible once we become certain and assured of who God is.  Sometimes we seem to forget that once we are assured of our status with God – that we can’t fail in anything that we endeavor to accomplish. 

This prayer of Assurance can assist us to continually affirm the dependence that we have in our confidence in Him.

                                          PRAYER OF ASSURANCE ©2003

ord God, I thank you for the spirit of assurance.  Your word verifies that true assurance in you is the attribute that will permit me to overcome every obstacle in these last days.

A full blessed assurance in you validates the fact that because of your sovereign love for me - nothing, nothing, No Thing - that occurs today in my life will cause a detour in your divine will for me.  My assurance, my firm conviction in you mandates that I exercise my blood bought authority this day, to walk above the circumstances of life.  I will never again release from my mouth that I am under, beneath or a victim to my present world conditions. 

Your word assures me and reveals to me who you are, your very nature.  Your word   reveals to me that the things seen are temporal; moveable, mutable, unable to withstand, and subject to environmental conformation.  Therefore, I am assured, that as I  absorb, soak up and permit only your word to infiltrate my spirit - then and then only will I have the ability to rise above and remain above my circumstances.

 My assurance in you decrees that I will not leave this life prematurely.  My assurance in you decrees that I have the ability now to stand in the midst of adversity and command your presence to prevail.

I thank you for your assurance that I am a “King’s Kid”; your heir, and a joint heir with Christ.  I am of a royal priesthood, divinely anointed and appointed for this time - groomed and adorned by you, Lord God; totally for Lord.

 I am assured that I can only excel…...  It is because of this assurance that I know I will never, never, never be defeated.

   Hallelujah!!  Thank You Lord!!!                                        

F.A.I.T.H.

Note: The word faith is one of those interchangeable words which can be communicated as a noun or a verb. 

There is one element that we must possess if we are going to walk in obedience to God.  This is verified in Hebrews 11:6; “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him”.                       .

Faith involves vision.   Proverbs 29:18a states: “Where there is no vision, the people perish:”

Therefore if we are going to please God; and walk with a purpose – we must exercise faith which is expressed through vision.

One of the goals of the enemy is to get us to doubt the promises of God – and not walk by faith; or/and to have no outlook for the future; no vision.

Therefore to make certain that we continue to walk in our God given vision we must view faith as our: Firm, Assurance, In, Trials & Hardships.

So when I have faith in God; I am able to have the faith of God. When I have the faith in God, He is my “FIRM ASSURANCE IN TRIALS & HARDSHIPS”!

It should matter not what we may encounter in a given day; if we allow God to be our F.A.I.T.H. we will have the ability to work through every phase of our vision.  We must never forget that the enemy has launched every diabolical plot, plan and scheme for our demise.  However, without regards to anything that he proposes – we have the ultimate victory!  Whatever he does, we must have the firm assurance he is no match for us –when we stand in the Lord. 

If we are going to stand as the victorious warriors that we are; we must daily “gear up” with our spiritual weapons. Now is not the time to become weary in your well doing. Remember your battle may be long – but the key to your endurance is to have F.A.I.T.H. ; express F.A.I.T.H. and to tell others about your “FIRM ASSURANCE IN TRIALS & HARDSHIPS”!

^“And they overcame ……… .by the word of their testimony;”  Revelation 12:11

…...Nothing Shall Offend Them

“Great peace have they which love thy law; and nothing shall offend them.” Psalm 119:165

Your ability to become offended reveals the level of maturity from which you operate.  The word offend in this verse refers to “stumbling block”.  Therefore when I permit anything to cause me to stumble or to divert my focus from the Lord; I have not learned to avail myself of His ever abiding peace. 

The peace of God represents the wholeness of God; His completeness – nothing missing.  When I realize that God has the ability to control every situation; I will then receive the confidence in my spirit to rest in Him. 

I’m reminded of a toddler when learning to walk.  They must learn to be confident, as well as how to balance themselves.  When we haven’t learned to walk confidently according to God’s word; we permit the cares of this world, people and even our own undisciplined motives – to become a stumbling block and we lose our balance.  When we haven’t obtained the power to have the proper balance in our lives; we stumble and sometimes fall.

I must also realize that the spirit of fear is the anchored root system and underlying, hidden culprit that is still present when I am yielding to the influences of offence.  When ungodly fear is eradicated from my life, I will recognize that offence will no longer be an issue.

Offences will come (Luke 17:1) – but I don’t have to permit them to divert my attention.  If I prepare myself daily with an awareness that I am more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37); I will know how to receive the peace of God; which has the power and the authority to permit me to remain stable and to triumph in every situation (Philippians 4:7).  Peace is not the absence of chaos.  Peace is the mindset that affords me the ability to remain unshaken – regardless. 

To rest in the peace of God reveals that I have permitted the power of God to be my support system… and that I am trusting in His promises to be my daily provision.

Therefore, to prevent the offences that so readily appear in life from becoming a stumbling block in my life; the spirit of fear must be dealt with.  I must appropriate the mindset that God’s unconditional love will yet prevail in every situation.  I can’t become distracted nor lose my balance; and above all I must trust the fact that God will vindicate every contrary wind that blows my way….and somehow….. always cause His favor to reign in my life! 

“Those who love your laws have great peace of heart and mind and do not stumble.”

                                                                                                                                    Living Bible

I’ve Got It……And I’m Going To Keep It!

Read - Deuteronomy 28:1-14

As the Lord begins to restore you to your wealthy place it is imperative that you have already made the proper preparations to maintain the same.  Planning, discipline and an open ear are a few of the essential tools that must be implemented.

(As a reminder, wealth is not limited to monetary increase or the gain of possessions in the physical realm.  We’ll discuss the subject of wealth at a late time.)

Begin now to write, amend or develop; (depending upon your individual level of spiritual maturity) an enhanced, strategic maintenance plan.  This plan must incorporate the well-defined vision that the Lord has given to you concerning your destiny.   Your plans must satisfy the required steps which are needed for you to obtain your God given goals.  Statistics have verified that most of the people who are sudden advanced to a higher plateau don’t maintain that status mainly because they didn’t have a written plan that they could use as their guide.  (Refer to Habakkuk 2:2a)

Although some people have very well organized plans – they lack the discipline and the tenacity to adhere to their plans.  In order to change my disciplinary actions, I must change my approach – my mind must be renewed. (Refer to Romans 12:2)  Discipline requires renewal.  Many of us lack the discipline to adhere to those tasks that go “against the grain”.  However, we must also realize that some of us would have advanced a little sooner, had we applied just a little more discipline throughout our lives, in the areas that were more significant. 

Lastly we must fine tune our ability to hear the voice of the Lord. (Refer to John 10:27) Our ear must be open only to His guidance and direction.  Break that mold that causes you to think that our God is limited in His access to you.  When you know His voice, you will be able to recognize it without regarding the source from which it is being projected.   When you know His voice, you must have a receptive spirit to advance in “instant obedience” to His call.  When you know God’s voice, you must not waste time…Attempting to question His judgment.  An open ear to His voice will enable you to make the proper investments – those which WILL bring a profitable gain.

Yes… God has promised to return the years that: the locust, the canker worm, the caterpillar and the palmerworm have stolen (Refer to Joel 2:25).  However, as the return is restored to you – how are you going to keep it from being devoured?  One way is by remembering that it has now become your responsibility to be a good steward; which entails the application of God given strategies.  This will assure you of keeping all that has been restored to you and assist you to maintain your position as; the head and not the tail …and above ALWAYS and never, ever beneath…. again!

(Note: By “keeping” we are not implying hoarding or becoming selfish. But rather the using wisdom in the disbursement of our: time, gifts and talents.)

Her Tears, Her Hair, Her Kiss

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

                                                                                                                       Luke 7:38

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

Most of us don’t know who this “nameless” woman was in the story – however, we all know what she did.  This brings us to our first point.  Strive to be motivated from a pure heart of submission and gratitude.  Then your works will make a perpetual impact for generations to come.  “Who” you are may be forgotten – but “What” you do will leave an indelible imprint in the sands of time.

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

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

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

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

1.     We must approach the Lord in a state of brokenness, submission and repentance.

2.     Nothing that belongs to me, nothing that I possess, should I withhold from the Lord.  Whatever I take pride in, whatever I glory in, should willingly be used for Him.

3.      My mouth must remain at the feet of Jesus.  Whatever I kiss (place my stamp of approval on) must come into an alignment with the walk of Christ.  My kiss must not be one of betrayal….but a signal or an expression which has been motivated by an inward transformation.

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

So…. when I humbly bow; when I’ve kissed the feet of Jesus, I am now positioned to be totally used of Him to make that endtime, undeniable, unforgettable impact….. An impact that will cause an elevation in the level of my faith and produce the miracles, signs and wonders which will get the attention of the saved, unsaved and the unchurched!

Exchanging Your Happiness for Joy

                                                You O Lord are the source of my joy

“El SIMCHATH GILI”

(God my exceeding Joy - Psalm 43:4)

“……...This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”                                                        Nehemiah 8:10 (Read Psalm 43 and Nehemiah 8)

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, El Simchath Gili to infiltrate my mind, thus permitting me to remain joyful throughout this day.  I will not allow any circumstance that may arise today cause me to lose my focus.   I will exchange and replace every temporal emotion in my mind.  I must realize that, that mindset has its foundation in happiness – which is based on the “happenings” at any given moment.  Simply because joy is centered in the spirit of man – as I delight myself in You – my spirit will be at peace; and I will obtain the ability to receive all of the benefits of having a joy filled life – regardless.

So I thank You now, El Simchath Gili for Your guidance, direction and the provision of Your “joy”.  The joy that You bring will empower me and offer to me the foundation to stand strong today and always.

As I continue to daily delight myself in You, I will become aware of the fact that I must exchange those things which bring happiness with those which bring joy.   As I continue to mature in you; this will become a natural process. 

May I never cease 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.” 

It’s A Control Issue

“…But He endured the cross” Hebrews 12:2

In a previous post, I briefly mentioned a powerful trio that I stated we would see again.  I’ve discovered that the implementation of this trio is one of the keys that will unlock the door to success in every arena.  The three words in question which compose the trio are: Patience, Focus and Endurance. I would like to encourage you to research these words, apply their meanings to your everyday life, and you will observe a vast difference.

One of the areas where a number of people need the most developing is patience.  We have a tendency to stand beside a micro wave and become disturbed that it’s taking too long!  I would even dare to say that most of the adversities that we have encountered have been because we have attempted to advance at the incorrect time.  We became like Sarah and Abraham (Genesis 16)….and produced an Ismael!    Patience = Trust.  The display of patience (or the lack of it) is an outward indication of our inward countenance.  Who’s really in control?  If the correct person is in control – we can as David did wait on the Lord (Psalm 40:1).

However, as I wait – I must not lose sight of where I’m going.  Regardless of any detour signs, apparent road blocks, potholes, and bumps along the way – I must stay focused!  I must remember that all of these have been assigned to me because the enemy is trying to distract me….and God is attempting to advance me to my next place.  However, if I can’t maintain my focus now – why should I be given more?  Who’s really in control?..... My ability to remain focused in the midst of chaos will tell the story!  (Philippians 3:14)

Endurance! The word alone informs me that I’m going to meet opposition. My ability to reach my goal is contingent upon my ability to remember that I’m not running a “50 yard dash”!  I must learn to “pace” myself, not become overwhelmed and never quit. Our race is long, our journey through high, and low terrain.  Alone – but not lonely.  Difficult but not impossible.  Who’s really in control?  Your ability to endure – as a good soldier – will reveal the answer. (II Timothy 2:3)

These three words when properly applied, will allow us to be anchored in, and to discover God’s true design for our lives.  The strength of my durability (endurance) relies on my ability to not become frustrated (patience) and to keep my eye on my God’s appointed destination (focus) for me. 

So, it’s truly a control issue.  How did Christ endure all that He encountered?  It was because He KNEW that His Father was really in control of His life and the outcome of every situation.  Do you…without a shadow of a doubt know who’s really in control of your life? ...... Your reactions during your next seemingly impossible situation will reveal the truth!

It’s Been Revealed

“But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” I Corinthians 2:10

We are now in the “season” when it is imperative that we push pass our previous limitations, boundaries and the mindsets which had been established in us by those whose knowledge and experiences with God were “shallow”.  We must not continue to “pour the new wine” into “old wine skins”.   Simply because we are operating from a different plateau and a new dimension; we must seek the face of God, to be able to operate in the wisdom of God.

One prime example can be illustrated as we read our key verse for today.  Most people can accurately quote the preceding verse, verse 9 (“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”); and they have stopped at that verse for years.  However, if we just advance to the very next verse, we will view the entire concept from a different perspective.

God wants us to always remain cognitive of the fact that we must not rely on our own wisdom (the wisdom of man) – but walk fully confident and aware of who He truly is (His wisdom).  He has revealed to each of us His intents, concepts and precepts – but only according to the level of our maturity in Him.  His desire is to unfold to us daily new revelations of Himself; as well new strategies – endtime strategies….. but are you positioned to receive?  Are you still drinking milk when you should be able to tolerate a solid food?  Or as Hebrews 5:12 states, “In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food!” (NIV)

The door is now open, and access has been granted.   What cannot be seen or imagined in the physical realm – has been revealed and can be observed in the realm of the spirit.  The sky isn’t the limit – for in this season… there is no limit to what God will do for YOU.  Recondition or reprogram your mind to accept that fact – there is not limit!  We are now privy to God’s favor in a fashion that we have not previously known.    The key in this season is to not cancel or sabotage your own destiny by the WORDS that you are speaking. 

In this season….. Revelation has laid the foundation…… therefore, it’s time for manifestation to erect her pillar and to take the center stage! 

“Glory to God, who is able to do far beyond all that we could ask or imagine by his power at work within us;”   Ephesians 3:20 (CEB)

Cooked to Perfection

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

                                                                                                               ob 23:10 (AMP)

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

God, as our master chef, already knows each and every one of us.  He knows exactly what He has placed on the inside of each of us.  Therefore, whatever you are now experiencing - you are in the process of becoming His masterpiece. You are in the process of being “cooked to perfection”!  If it seems as though your time in the oven has been long; be encouraged.  That is only an indication that your potential is of a greater magnitude than even you are aware of.  God will never permit a cake to burn or a roast to dry out!  We are all being cooked to perfection.  The fire seems intense; and it is.  Your journey may seem… just downright CRAZY!... and it is!! Just…Be encouraged!! Sometimes we will often add “opposite” ingredients such as lemon and sugar to the same mixture – and think it normal!

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

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

 1 John 3:2

I’ll be a Witness…… But to Them?

“Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.”

Who is included in your “them”?  Far too often we will be avid witnesses for the Lord; and express a sincere concern for lost souls…..except when it comes to “them”.  Now, we’ll be the first to vocalize that we are not prejudice; nor biased in our soul winning concerns.  However, most of us have unconsciously established boundaries and perimeters, outside of which we don’t venture when it comes to seeking out the lost.

When God inspired the writers to pen the scriptures, every single example used, was done with a purpose.  As we re-read our text, it is evident that it is extremely detailed.   One of the examples that Jesus was attempting to show us is the fact that we can’t permit the characteristics which a person may possess in the physical realm, to forbid us from fulfilling a deficiency that they may possess in the realm of the Spirit.  As we further analyze the story, we can observe that Jesus knew her need for contentment had not been found in her previous experiences.  Therefore, He ignored that fact of her gender and her heritage.  He went deeper.  Even throughout their entire conversation, He sought to fulfill the spiritual – while she initially lacked the ability to comprehend His message and His purpose. 

So we must expand our mindsets to view others – first in the realm of the Spirit.  We must be open to eagerly witness to “them”.  To those, to whom we through our own prideful mindsets; feeling as though we shouldn’t witness to.  Now, 99% of the time, whatever reason we will use to validate our actions of neglect, has risen from the residue of pride that is still lingering around!

Your “them” may include: the rich and high sidity; the poor; the homeless; those who are bound by mental challenges – including those who are involved in unnatural sexual relationships; those who are of a different ethnic origin …..and the list is endless.  However, you will still be held accountable for not expressing the love of God to your “them”! 

Refuse to permit the enemy to cloud your reasoning any longer.  We must be about our Father’s work.  He orders our steps as to cross those to whom we should witness.  However, we must walk in an awareness and an obedience to Him; that will cause us to seize every opportunity to be a witness for Him; and to eliminate the groups of “them” from our lives.

Ezekiel 33:6 reminds us of the importance of being a witness to everyone who hasn’t been warned about their sin nature. 

I would like to challenge you to broaden your horizons concerning soul winning.  The Lord has continued to delay His return.  This is giving those who are still lost an opportunity to get “it together”.  It is our obligation to seize every given available occasion to express a concern for those who are not saved.

We must enhance our concepts of the loss, eliminate our group of the “them”….. and yes, find the loss…at any cost! 

“But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people and the sword comes and takes someone's life, that person's life will be taken because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood.” Ezekiel 33:6  (NIV)

No More Fear

“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 fear has become your favorite pillow, your warm comforter or your pair of fuzzy slippers?  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 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. 

Fear Be Gone!

 ather 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 to 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 ungodly fear has entered, I ask you for the wisdom needed to close every open door; and a renewed mind, which will permit me to stand and enforce the decrees which I have made concerning the spirit of fear.   Therefore, I reintegrate; every closed door WILL remain 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!