OH NO! Not This Time!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Mark 13:7 in the amplified version

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

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

So when the next major calamity comes that shook us like “9 -11” did; Our response will not be one of fear and frustration.  We will maintain our focus – and tell the enemy…OH NO – Not This Time!

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

If finances become questionable, because I’m a tither and understand Malachi 3:11 - I can say OH NO.. No This Time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yes.. Prayer is the KEY…Faith unlocks the door….But UNDERSTANDING will OPEN that door and allow me to tell the enemy… OH NO, NOT THIS TIME!

It’s Never Too Late!

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

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

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

Another very important fact to remember in this game called life is this: “We have the power to limit the manifestation of God’s desire to change things for our good”.  In other words, because God has given to us the place of dominion and authority on this earth, He will not override that decision.  That’s why He has told US that: death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21); He has told US to speak forth those things which be not.., (Romans 4:17); He has told US - I set before you this day life and death ….  (Deuteronomy 30:19); He has told US - No good thing will I withhold… (Psalm 84:11); e has told USH He has told US to – put on the whole armor …. (Ephesians 6:11-13) etc., etc.  – So, He is saying SPEAK it, and I’ve got your back!  He is saying, “You may have decided to make a wrong move – but I’ve allotted you the opportunity to cause that wrong move to work in your favor.” (Romans 8:28)

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

It’s Never Too Late!

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

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

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

Another very important fact to remember in this game called life is this: “We have the power to limit the manifestation of God’s desire to change things for our good”.  In other words, because God has given to us the place of dominion and authority on this earth, He will not override that decision.  That’s why He has told US that: death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21); He has told US to speak forth those things which be not.., (Romans 4:17); He has told US - I set before you this day life and death ….  (Deuteronomy 30:19); He has told US - No good thing will I withhold… (Psalm 84:11); He has told US to – put on the whole armor …. (Ephesians 6:11-13) etc., etc.  – So, He is saying SPEAK it, and I’ve got your back!  He is saying, “You may have decided to make a wrong move – but I’ve allotted you the opportunity to cause that wrong move to work in your favor.” (Romans 8:28)

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

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 we as warriors have at our disposal is time. Strategies and strategic maneuvers 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 completely surrender our minds unto the Lord for renewal as we have never done before.  We must learn to operate in a spirit of total and instant obedience to the voice of the Lord. This type of obedience is produced by love and discipline – not fear;  and is vital.   This type of obedience also produces in us a sense of “readiness” which prepares us to be more “pro” active… instead of “re” active!

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)

Brokenness = Maturity

My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; ……. Psalm 51:17

Simply put….God desires to take you to an added dimension in Him; however you are still lacking the maturity that occurs as the result of a totally broken spirit before the Lord.

When we refer to various Biblical patriarchs we can observe that they all had to experience a season of brokenness prior to being used mightily for the Lord.  One of the keys to brokenness is to place the flesh under subjection through fasting.

In our modern culture here in America, we have expanded the concept of fasting to incorporate the meaning of “the abstinence of”……whatever. We are, in many instances not referring to food; but abstaining from various activities, mindsets and behavioral patterns. 

When we refer to the Hebrew word used in the Bible for fasting, TSOM (pronounced ts-oom), it means to cover the mouth.  Then the Greek word, nesteia (pronounced nace-ty-oo), means to abstain from food.  So we could conclude that both the Old and New Testaments place the emphasis on “food”.

Could the reason why true brokenness hasn’t occurred be that we’ve attempted to alter its original definition?  Could it be that we have replaced instead of enhancing?  Without regards to any additional concepts – fasting must; according to the Biblical definitions; at some point include an abstaining from food. 

God needs us to be totally free IN Him – to be totally used OF Him.  He needs and is requiring of us a deeper relationship WITH Him.  He is requiring that our minds operate from a level of maturity which is representative of one who is broken from any and everything that doesn’t resemble Him.

Consider these types of fast as you deepen your relationship with the Lord.

Elijah’s Fast – I Kings 19

Widow’s Fast – I Kings 17:8-16

Paul’s Fast – Acts 9:9

Daniel’s Fast – Daniel 1:8-14; 10:3

John’s Fast – John 1:6 &7

Esther’s Fast – Esther 4

This IS the season of breakthrough.  God has broken through, broken out and broken up everything in the realm of the spirit that has been a bondage, a noose or an anchor.  He has broken through diabolical plots and plans.  He has cleared the atmosphere of every lingering spirit that has once held us captive. 

Now we must do our part.  We must align, renew and fortify the spirits of our minds; thus permitting them to become broken; and now mature enough to reap supernaturally all of the benefits which we now possess.  An immature unbroken spirit will not have the ability to advance in this new dimension.  God has begun to shower those who are ready; who are mature enough to reap this harvest.   However many will not even have the maturity to be able to comprehend or to understand fully this move of God. 

In this season maturity is the key.  God needs to use YOU to do great exploits….. but you still need to obtain a level of maturity that only true brokenness has birthed!

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 – 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 you Lord.

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

   Hallelujah!!  Thank You Lord!!!                                        

Cooked to Perfection

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

                                                                                                                 Job 23:10 (AMP)

A master chef knows that whatever the dish; the finished product that 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

My Accountability is to You!

“My awareness of your omnipresence elevates my accountability to you O Lord”

“Yahweh Hashopet”

(The Lord the judge - Psalm7:8)

“Yahweh administers judgment to the peoples. Judge me, Yahweh, according to my righteousness, and to my integrity that is in me.”   Psalm 7:8            World English Bible

Lord, as of today, I decree that I have an enlightened mindset in regards to my accountability concerning you.   May I view with a higher perspective every plan, idea and every strategy that you have given unto me - whether it be for me directly, for your people….. or for even those who are not saved. 

Although you “Yahweh Hashopet, judge my motives and actions, I must never become stagnant, thus further nurturing the actions of procrastination, that attempt to become a comfort zone.

Therefore, I acknowledge the fact that I hold in high esteem all that you have entrusted to my hands.  So…. as of today, I will begin to enthusiastically; with a renewed passion…. set in motion and actively pursue every avenue that leads me to, and takes me down, the path of your divine destiny for my life.  Because I regard my accountability to you far more superior than any earthly commitment;  I have an increased zeal to aggressively accomplish your plans for my life.  

So Lord, may my actions always be in alignment with the motives that you, the righteous judge, see within my heart.   May I never forget that my accountability is always held “in check” by the guidelines of your Word.  May I never lower the state of my integrity to the extent that I will become more accountable to a person than to you.  

Lastly, Lord may I continue to increase my level of faithfulness to you.  May I have an ever present reminder and conscience awareness of your love for me.  May I honor you.  May I obey you… and may I remain subjected to you and you alone…… my Yahweh Hashopet.

Are You Still Committed?

“A winner makes commitment. A loser makes promises.”  (Anonymous)

“Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62 ESV

The Bible has a lot to say about being committed.  If a poll were to be taken, I’m sure that most people would consider themselves to be loyal, devoted, faithful – committed.  However, to be considered as one who has earned the ability to be classified as committed doesn’t come without an extremely high price tag!

Many have declared that this year, they would excel and accomplish more than in previous years.  Whether written or verbally proclaimed and mentally affirmed – commitments were initiated at the beginning of the year.  We are still in the first quarter of the year; and most of those “commitments” have already been diminished to empty promises.

Luke 9:62 refers to be committed – “And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”   As does Ecclesiastics 5:5; “It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.”  (Only two of many scriptures that deal with commitment.)

So, let’s become committed to be more committed!   In other words, we must – if we are going to maintain our effectiveness, begin to place more value, on the demonstrated displays of those things which the Lord has assigned to us.  Far too often we “pick and choose” our level of commitment and limit it to what we deem important or more convenient.  However, we must remain cognizant of the fact that God doesn’t invest anything in us that is worthless.  He has handpicked, and tailor made the blueprint for our lives.  He has given to us all so many more giftings and anointings than most of us are permitting to be manifested in our lives.  Now, our job is to become “committed” to the cultivating, grooming and maturing procedures which are required; that will cause every seed within us to begin and continue its growth process.

There is no better time to begin that now.  Many will read this and agree – but will you be one of the ones who will actually be committed enough to change?  It was once spoken that the graveyard contains some of the richest soil.  Why? Because most people die without staying committed enough to their cause to produce the dreams, and aspirations which the Lord has given to them.

To remain committed I must: Change, Obey, Meditate, Mature, Invest, Travail, Trust, Endure and Demand!

Let’s not arrive at the end of next quarter without displaying some sign that we are becoming more committed to producing all that the Lord has entrusted and meticulously placed within us.

When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me.” Erma Bombeck

“If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.” Numbers 30:2

“P.E.A.C.E.”

How can I still have peace?

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

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

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

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

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

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

A -“Ask”        - If I ask God for guidance, and don’t just do what “I” think is  

                        best;  (Proverbs 3:5-7)

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

         (Psalm 30:2)

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

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

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

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

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

Power To Press Beyond                            

(Written by Apostle Claudia Boatwright ©2003)

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

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

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

Since you have told me that the best is in the press, I will press into you at any cost.   I will press beyond the feelings of defeat, frustration, adversity and opposition. I will press beyond the spirits of despair, dejection and rejection.  I have learned that I must press beyond any of the feelings in my flesh, and rely only 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!!!

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

The Message We Send

On last night I ministered at a church that is having a revival for this entire month.  Their theme is: “The Message We Send”.  So I pose the question to you.  What is the message that you are sending to your: family, friends, haters, co-workers, neighbors and to the kingdom of darkness?

Well, without a doubt you should be sending the message: “I Can’t Be defeated!”

Your daily walk should prove as evidence to all – especially to the kingdom of darkness that you can’t be defeated – regardless!

Why?

I can’t be defeated because my mind has been and is continually being renewed with the Word of God. (Ephesians 4:22; Romans 12:2).

I can’t be defeated because I’ve learned how to discipline my spirit and to abide in the presence of the Lord. In other words…. I’ve learned how to pass through the outer court; and to permit my spirit to enjoy the inner court praise experience; in preparation for the worship experience that can only be found in the holy of holies. (John 4:24)

Above all, I can’t be defeated because I’m sold out and souled out.  I’m convinced that God loves me!  (John 3:16).  Therefore according to Romans 8:37-39 it doesn’t matter what the enemy may decide to inflict upon me, the love of God will: override, cancel, nullify and bring to naught every diabolical plot and plan. So I know no defeat because my soul is completely “souled out’.  Hezekiah Walker expresses it like this:

"Souled Out"

I am souled out, my mind is made up; Who can separate us from the love Jesus?
Not death, nor life.  Jesus paid the price, now I'm free from sin. I am souled out.
I've come through the fire, I've come through the rain.  But God, He never left my side,
He's my comfort through all hurt and pain - I am souled out.
My heart is fixed, my mind's made up; No room, no vacancies, I'm all filled up.
His Spirit lives in me and that's the reason I'm souled out!

Therefore, the message that we send should always and alway (no “s”) be: “I Can’t Be Defeated”.

Be Who God Has Created You To Be!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 I Peter 2:9 & 10 (The Message Bible)

The Comma

“Be still, and know that I am God. …………..” Psalm 46:10

When using written communications to convey our thoughts to others, it is much easier for us to be understood when we use various punctuation marks.    Whether you are the writer or the reader; without the use of punctuation marks it would be virtually impossible for the communication to be successful.  One such marking that most of us are familiar with is the comma.  The comma, unlike the period informs us the we haven’t arrive at the end; there is still more to come; so just take a brief pause and continue on.

Our lives are also accompanied with various “accent or punctuation marks”.  There will be times when we arrive at the place when it becomes necessary to take a brief rest – and then continue on.  In other words – we’ve arrive at a place that we know isn’t the end or the final stage of the project.  Yet, we are not feeling as those we should proceed “right now”.  This may be the time when it is necessary to take a brief pause – and then continue on.  You just might be experiencing the result of a “spiritual comma” that God has inserted into the “sentence of your life”.  God strategically places the commas in our lives where He knows that they will effectively impact us and those to whom he has called us to minister.  Don’t ignore the God inserted commas, or else the remainder of the spiritual sentence will be perplexing.  In other words, don’t push forward when God is telling you to wait.  Don’t try to MAKE God move in a given situation.

So just remember, the comma is the signal to stop briefly; and then continue on.  Don’t become too comfortable or discouraged in the “comma” place.  There is still more to be accomplished. God will use YOU to achieve all that He has promised.  Don’t become disheartened when the situations and circumstances which were once “sailing smoothly”; sudden appear to hit a few bumps in the road…..even though you know that the journey isn’t complete.  Maybe you’ve just encounter a spiritual comma.  So remain calm, seek the face of God for any amendments that need to be implemented… and wait for the release to proceed further.

Acknowledge and appreciate the commas…. They are the brief resting places along this “sentence” of life.

And He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a lonely place and rest a while."……

Mark 6:31

Broken Boundaries

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

To live a life that has been crucified requires that we establish and maintain boundaries.    Therefore, I must be determined that I will; whatever the cost; not permit the cares, pleasures and lifestyles of this world, persuade me to permit my God given boundaries to become broken.    Today, we are witnessing the effects of “broken boundaries” in our homes, our government…and what’s even worst, within the body of Christ.   The body of Christ as a whole has the power to totally uproot and overthrow every diabolical decision that our government attempts to impose upon us.   However, because we have permitted some many boundaries to become broken; the Holy Spirit who resides WITHIN us is no longer living THROUGH us. 

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

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

Let’s become more focused on allowing the Holy Spirit who dwells within us to truly live through us.  This means taking a non-compromising stand for everything that God opposes….regardless!  This means no negotiating or “plea bargaining” when it comes to what we do, where we go, what we eat, what we say, what we wear; our giving and our living; our dispositions and our attitudes. 

So… because we have been crucified with Christ, trust God!  We must allow the life that we now live, to be a living sacrifice of a lifestyle that exemplifies the power, and the authority of  the Holy Spirit who inhabits our spiritman.  The world needs what we have.  Therefore we must, at any cost, refuse to permit our boundaries to remain broken!

…..From the Inside Out

 “Woe to you, Pharisees, and you religious leaders—hypocrites! You are so careful to polish the outside of the cup, but the inside is foul with extortion and greed.”

 Matthew 23:25 (The Living Bible)

Yesterday marked the beginning of a time when we in the Christian arena turn our focus towards the period of temptation and persistence that our Saviour endured just for us.   This season of Lent affords us the opportunity to learn many valuable lessons from the Lord. 

Christ was able to endure every temptation that He encountered because He lived His life from the inside out.  He didn’t allow the occurrences that transpired to diminish who He knew that He was.  He maintained His focus and never lost sight of His ultimate goal.  He lived His life from the inside out.

In my opinion, the duck is a perfect example for today’s meditation.  Many people don’t like to eat duck because they say that it’s too greasy.  No doubt, those of you here in America have heard the expression, “Like water rolls off of the duck’s back.” (Or something to that effect.)  Well, the reason why water will roll off of the back of a duck, is because the back of the duck is composed with glands that constantly secrete oil.  Just to summarize the whole process; when water falls on the back of the duck, the water can’t penetrate the oil covering that’s being produced – from the inside to the outside! Therefore, that water which is on the outside, has little or no effect on the duck, because of what’s on the inside of the duck.  The back of the duck is so saturated with the oil from the inside – that it has a perpetual protective shield to aid in its defense against oppositions.

As we go through this Lenten Season I would encourage you to not just give up something for a 40 day period. Why not during this period of consecration…. to allow the power of the Holy Spirit to illuminate some of the areas on the “inside” of you where He is not in full control?  During this Lenten Season let’s draw our attentions more to the Spirit realm instead of the sensual realm.  (What is discerned by our senses; what we see, hear, taste, touch and smell.) 

Our only chance for successfully walking down our God ordained path, is to learn to live this life from the inside out.  What’s on the inside will come out.   Matthew 23:26 instructs us to clean the inside of the cup and the outside will be come clean. 

So during this 40 day period, initiate a permanent change. Be determine to allow your “back” to become so saturated with the oil of the Holy Spirit that dwells in you; that whatever the enemy throws you way, will have no lasting effect. …… it will just roll on off……because you are living your life from the inside out.

“You’re hopeless, you religion scholars and Pharisees! Frauds! You burnish the surface of your cups and bowls so they sparkle in the sun, while the insides are maggoty with your greed and gluttony. Stupid Pharisee! Scour the insides, and then the gleaming surface will mean something.” Matthew 23:25-26 (The Message Bible)

Seedless Grapes

“And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, …” Genesis 1:28

Throughout the Bible, the theme of reproduction is ever present.  In every era or dispensation we can observe that God intended for mankind to “establish & duplicate”.  In other words, God’s plan for mankind did not include mutated fruit – but fruit that would; “reproduce after its own kind” and fruit that would “remain”. 

Seeds = potential.   Seeds represent God’s natural form of reproduction.  However, man has in his wisdom introduced an alternative to the wisdom of God.  For example, let’s consider how man’s intervention has interrupted the natural reproductive nature in the area of vegetation.   Now, although we all really enjoy eating the seedless varieties of fruit; can you make a connection between seedless vegetation and the seedless human race?  In other words, can mankind now so readily accept the introduction of lifestyles which are contrary to those originally instituted by God; because in our minds we have already accepted this concept?

God has planned for everything to reproduce “after its own kind”.  However, seedless grapes cannot be reproduced without the assistance of man.  For years now; we have just eaten them and have never given any thought to their origin. 

I’m again reminded of the Cicadas who had made an appearance a few years ago; which had been underground for about 17 years.  Still alive; still thriving – but hidden! Many of the concepts of the enemy have been hidden for years, and even centuries!  However, because it is now restoration time – all that was hidden is now being revealed….but only “he who has an ear to hear” and an “eye to see” will be able to benefit from the many endtime revelations.

Think about it.  Could the concept of seedless grapes have mentally paved the road for the acceptance of homosexuality – (which is an attempt to alter the natural reproduction of the human race!)?  Could the concept behind the seedless grapes also have enhanced some of the “hassle-free” ideas that we have entertained concerning our work ethics?  Seedless grapes have no potential of their own and are completely contrary to every concept that the Lord has given to us in His word.  Seedless grapes represent man’s ability to develop and to improve upon something that God had already perfected….. just for the sake of convenience!   

Now… don’t misunderstand me.  Will I cease to purchase seedless grapes? Absolutely not! (Not that I know of!) .  But just remember that God doesn’t want us to produce seedLESS grapes.  His desire for us is to produce fruit with the ability to reproduce after is kind – with no other interference than that which is generated and motivated by the Holy Spirit.

So, in this season; let’s be more mindful of anything in our lives that does not have the potential to be productive; as well as to monitor what we are reproducing.

By divine nature, we should all be reproducing some type of fruit. I challenge you today to permit the Fruit of the Spirit to be manifested ever the more in your lives.  Be determined that next year, or next month, or next week – will not find you still producing seedless grapes ….. But grapes with the potential to go forth; to reproduce and to fulfill the plans and purposes of God.

“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain:….”  John 15:16

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 whispers 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 may be waiting just for you; be available.   Some discouraged sister or brother needs to hear your testimony/ praise report; be available.   

Remember that the enemy is counting on you to give up or to be so “busy” that you are not available to hear the voice of God.  Think about it…. if I am not available to be used by God….…..I AM available and already being used by the enemy!!!!!!

^“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.”                                                                                                                    

LEADERS! Don’t Be An Imposter!

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.”

St. Matthew 5:13

There are two substances, which many of us normally experience some type of interaction with on a regular basis.  Although from a distance, one could be mistaken for the other – however, their molecular composition is quite different.

The two substances in question are: table salt and sugar.  While both have the ability when viewed by the natural eye, to share certain characteristics in appearance, color, and shape – the substitution of one for the other would prove to provide catastrophic results!  Both are solvable in hot liquids; yet, one would never desire to add a teaspoon of salt instead of a teaspoon of sugar to their favorite morning mug.  Disastrous result would occur.  On the other hand, if one attempted to use sugar as a preservative – devastation and ruinous effects would be inevitable.

When we refer to our reference scripture, we can observe that Jesus informed his disciples that they were to be the salt of the earth.  Since sugar was introduced around 510 BC, if He wanted to use sugar as a reference – He could have done so. 

Ye are the salt of the earth.  What exactly is the implication of this statement?  Jesus was informing His disciples of the power and the authority that they possessed.  He was using a substance that they were very familiar with…. Salt.  They were neither privy to nor equipped with the modern mechanics or mechanisms of our current era.  Salt was to them the common commodity - containing the multi-faceted ability to serve numerous capacities. Therefore for Jesus to use this analogy, the implication of its impact on the minds of the disciples was extremely enlightening!  Jesus was informing them that they had been entrusted with the ability to bring to the earth every quality that they knew was common to salt.  In essence, they were to bring to the earth Purification, Preservation, and Protection. 

In our society, we have too many Leaders who possess the delicate character qualities of the simplistic nature of sugar, rather than those characteristics which are common to the complex durability of salt.  We are faced with the consequences of Leaders who are imposters!  Leaders who desire to display their ecclesiastical titles and the like instead of possessing and exemplifying the fruit of the spirit – IMPOSTERS!  Leaders who are displaying and living undisciplined and ungodly lifestyles – IMPOSTERS!  Leaders who are not attempting to aggressively seek the face of God on a daily basis – IMPOSTERS!  …. And what is even more damaging are those leaders who are confusing others by adding a stamp of approval to compromise – IMPOSTERS!

If we are going to equip the body of Christ with the tools necessary to be salt rather than sugar, we must be the first partakers.  Leaders we must stand up for and adhere to those guidelines for righteous living that are ascribed in our Holy Bible.  It matters not what our judicial system dictates or deems correct.  If their statements are in contradiction with the Word of God – we are to obey God.

 Leaders - Stand Up for the Word of God….Trust the authority of God…… and above all don’t compromise or negate your mandate to be the true SALT and not SUGAR.

                                                    NO MORE IMPOSTERS!!!!!

True Love Comes Only From God

.... .God is love…….. I John 4:7b

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

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

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

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

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

Sooooo here we go…. On Valentine’s Day – if you’re involved in any relationship be it: extra-marital, adulterous (sex w/ a married partner that is not yours), fornication (sex outside of marriage), same gender, or you have a “significant other” - and you THINK that you are in “LOVE” – wake up and smell the coffee!  You have settled for something much less than the true love God has intended for you to enjoy. 

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

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

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