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

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

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

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

However, to be able to recognize the voice of God we must learn more about Him, and build a relationship with Him.  This is accomplished by spending valuable time in His presence and studying His word to the point that we will know exactly who He is.  When you were a child, no doubt there were times when your parents may not have been present.  However, because you had spent time in their presence and had come to know them, you know whether you could or could not adhere to certain behavior patterns.  You knew your limits because you knew your parents.

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

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

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

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

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

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

However, to be able to recognize the voice of God we must learn more about Him, and build a relationship with Him.  This is accomplished by spending valuable time in His presence and studying His word to the point that we will know exactly who He is.  When you were a child, no doubt there were times when your parents may not have been present.  However, because you had spent time in their presence and had come to know them, you know whether you could or could not adhere to certain behavior patterns.  You knew your limits because you knew your parents.

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

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

Have you ever taken the time to consider why you feel the need to keep in your possession all of the items that you are not readily using?  No doubt most of us have a collection of something (s) that we aren’t using.  The question is, “Why do we still have them?”

There could be many reasons why we feel “comfortable” in keeping all of our possessions.   Many times the spirit of fear is the underlying culprit.  He has come in and is “holding the door open” for his buddies: doubt, pride, procrastination and everyone else to enter.  In other words are you holding on to “your stuff” because you feel as though you might need it one day? (Fear of Lack! .. apply Philippians  4:19)  Or because you feel as though you’ve paid too much for it and someone else won’t properly appreciate it as you do? (Pride!..apply Philippians 2:3 )  Or simply because you haven’t taken to time to get rid of it? (Procrastination! Proverbs 6:6)

Whatever the reason – the time has come for us to get rid of whatever we are not using.  God has called us to be a channel not a harbor!  We are asking God for increase.  We are asking God to return ALL that has been stolen.  However as we receive – no correction – BEFORE we receive…..we are to begin to sow at an accelerated rate!   Listen!  If you have an array of items that you aren’t using in the natural – guess what? That’s probably a revelation of what’s going on in your spirit man!  Most of us have become comfortable in permitting God to use us in a given area. Yet, we still have other gifts within us that are just not being used.  These gifts are now formulating into spiritual clutter; and preventing us from exceling.   

How do we get rid of spiritual clutter?  By first repenting.  Then by asking God to reveal and reactivate those gifts and callings which are lying dormant with in us.  Lastly, by maintaining a sense of freedom.  Refuse to permit the opinions of others to “lock you in” in a given area. 

The only way to avoid clutter is to change your mindset!  Whatever reason you used to justify your clutter is no longer acceptable!  Develop strategies that will afford you the opportunity to be more of a giver in both the spiritual and natural realms … and you will be amazed at how the Lord will begin to restore to you ALL that has been stolen!

If someone were to ask you to name five things that you are absolutely certain about, what would be the first item that you listed?  Would you have difficulty in composing such a list?  What would be the basis from which you gather your responses?  Would you rely on the “trials and errors” of your past?  Just how or where would you even begin such a list?

As we consider the status of this world’s condition … things look mighty dim!  I’ve often heard many people – who were, “Saints of the most high God” say that they can’t bear to watch the news or to engage in conversation about the daily tragedies and occurrences.  They walk through life feeling defeated, discouraged and afraid.   Then, these very same people will say that they are assured of the protective and loving hand of God. They will say that they know our Father is still ultimately in control!   My only response to them is…but, are you sure?

So I ask of you…. Do you know God? Or maybe it would be better to say – How do you know God?  Are you truly assured of who He really is?  Do you have that assurance that He is really on your side?  Now be honest.  Do you have that assurance that He is really in the midst of perfecting each and every situation for your good?

 _________________________________________________________________________

Prayer of Assurance

(©2003)

Lord 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.

 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, 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”; a heir of God, and a joint heir with Christ.  I am a royal priesthood, divinely anointed and appointed for this time - groomed and adorned by God, for God.

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

 “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.”                                                                         Philippians 1:6

(Also read II Timothy 3:14 & 15)

Can you recall the array of feelings that you experienced when you had finally achieved a certain accomplishment and it was time to move to the next level?   As you reflect, you will remember that there were various requirements that had to be successfully completed before you were able to be advanced.  Whether it was in school or on a job, most of the time, before you could be promoted, you had to confidently show your superiors that you were ready.  It didn’t matter how ready you may have thought yourself to be – you could not promote yourself.

The same holds true in our walk with the Lord.  Psalm 57:6 & 7 tells us that promotion comes from the Lord.  So it doesn’t matter how great we may think that we are – when it is time for us to be promoted, God can and will advance us to our next place in Him.  However, we must remember that because our God is a personal God, He has tailor made each of our courses just for us.  When the time is right He can catapult you to your next place in Him.  However we must successfully pass every test that he presents to us.

 Far too often we catch a glimpse of our new direction and our next promotion.  Then in the excitement, we attempt to promote ourselves - because God is just taking too long!  But just remember patience is the virtue that is required on every level.  When you are ready, God will easily open the many doors that you are trying to force open. 

In many instances, we have been misinformed and think that people can hinder our progress in the Lord.  However, we must not forget that when we are ready, God can still touch the hearts of those that we feel are hindering our progress. 

Lastly, promotions will always cause us to experience the temporary pain of leaving that which is familiar.   However, God will gently guide us through the progress. 

Yes it is promotion time…but don’t rush the process…rest in the Lord….and continue to allow HIM to walk you through the process.

All Eyes Are On You!!!

Believe it or not – someone is watching you!  Could be: a neighbor, co-worker, family member, someone that you pass on a regular basis, your favorite waitress or waiter, and this list could continue forever!  However, we must realize that because we have made a decision to stand for Christ, our every move is on display.  We are daily making an impact on the life of someone.  The problem is…..What type of imprint am I stamping in the lives of those who may not know me – but SEE me on a regular basis?

Think about it…. Am I known by my “walk” or my “talk”?  Most of us can talk a good game.  We have all of the correct answers and responses.  But, does my talk outweigh my walk?  Does my “dedication” to the Lord end when I leave my church or place of worship? If the people with whom I worship and the people who see me on a regular basis were to compare their notes on me – would they think that they are comparing two entirely different people?  

In response to Genesis 4:9, yes – I am my brother’s keeper.  It IS my responsibility to be more concerned about the impact that I am making on and in this world.  I’ve heard many people say, “Well I’m just being me.”  Yes…and that’s the problem.  God doesn’t want us to be ourselves – He wants us to: renew our minds (Romans 12:1&2), come out from among the foolishness (II Corinthians 6:17 & 18) and live a lifestyle that is in accord with who He is!   Everyone has come out of the closet – except the Christians.  God doesn’t need any secret agents or undercover Saints when it comes to taking a stand for Him. 

So make a decision to be more conscious about those who are watching you.  Don’t air your dirty laundry in public!  Be more concerned about being a living example for the Lord – than satisfying your flesh.  (Note: fast and pray for the strength to totally eradicate sinful acts!)

Anyone can say, “Lord I love you”.  However, are you willing to “Show” that love by slaying the deeds of your flesh (Romans 8:13 & Colossians 3:5) and allowing your daily lifestyle to become the magnet, which will attract the people who are watching you?  Believe it or not, All Eyes Are On You!!!!

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 that results.

This concept is mirrored in many instances throughout the Bible.  As we read and glean wisdom, strength and encouragement from it, 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, mend 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); 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 don’t realize …..that, ‘It’s Never Too Late”…..and – that  they have already won!

No More Fear …..Just Faith!

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

In what area of your life 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 sit passively in any area of my life.

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

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

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

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

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

True Love Comes Only From God

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 stated in 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.   Many other dialects don’t use the same word to show 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 concept 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 the 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), gay or lesbian - 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.  Be determined to go “against the grain”.  Dare to be different!  But above all dare to be RIGHT! God is LOVE (I John 4:7) ….. and whatever is not of Him….is not love!  

…..From the Inside Out

Today marks 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 the duck because they say that it’s too greasy.  No doubt you 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 on the outside, has little or no effect on the duck, because of what’s on the inside.

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…. 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.

Miracle or Lifestyle?

Are you still waiting with great expectation for your next miracle?  Well… that’s great!  However there needs to come a time in our lives, when our level of faith augments from little faith to great faith.  In other words, in all actuality – Why did Christ perform miracles?  Was it not to affirm His character among the non-believers, increase their level of faith, and to draw them into a trusting relationship with Him?

A miracle can be defined as an act of God that can be identified by both believers and non-believers; and that defies the laws of nature. 

As we do a little research we will readily discover that every miracle is associated with some degree of faith.  Miracles are for those who are still yet “babes” in their level of faith concerning the Lord.

So, let’s climb down out of those high-chairs, take the bibs from around our necks and walk in the assurance of every Word that God has spoken!  It’s time for us to live a lifestyle of daily occurrences that defy the laws of nature. It’s time for us to walk in the confidence of the Lord that is recorded in I John 5:14. 

How do we increase of level of faith?.... By getting out of the boat.  In other words …by coming out of our comfort zones and trusting God to do exceeding, abundantly MORE that we could ever ask or think…  And know that He will do it according to that power that works, lives and reigns in us. (Ephesians 3:20)

Come on now… The world needs to see US; the true believers God, living a lifestyle that is “Faith” filled and not join with them in a “Fear” filled lifestyle.

Challenge of the Day!!!

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

Sadly to say…normally, we will show expressions of what we call love to those who: look, sound, and smell like us!  …Those who shop where we shop, eat where we eat and drive the vehicles complimentary to ours.  Now don’t misunderstand – it isn’t wrong to enjoy the “finer things” in this life.  However, it’s now time to realize and begin to comprehend the full essence of God’s love for us.  It’s time for you to realize that God needs to use you to extend to others that unconditional love that He has shown to you.  It’s time to for us to expand our mindset, slay that demonic spirit of pride, and begin to be an example of the love that we sing about.

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

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

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

Still No Peace!!!

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

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

When we totally comprehend the love that God has for us – then we will permit Him to be the Lord in our lives.  Then it won’t be a struggle to surrender every area of our minds unto Him.  Then the process of renewing our minds can begin.  Then I can begin to absorb the concept that – it is because of His love for me – no good thing will He withhold from me (Ps. 84:11).  

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

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

As sang by: Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

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

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

Defeated Foe or Confident Warrior…….The Decision is Yours!

If we were to take a quick poll of those who are operating in leadership positions within the body of Christ, we would readily discover that many are operating from the mentally of “defeat” instead of “confidence”.   

Today ask yourself from which platform you are truly functioning.  Does your confidence in the promises of God end at the onset of the least little “boo” from the enemy’s camp?  If so… you’re a Defeated Foe!  Has your level of faith still not matured to the state where you can place your petitions before the Lord; according to 1John 5:14 & 15 and move on?  If not….. you’re a Defeated Foe!   Are you still “hoping” after you’ve confidently made all of your decrees and declarations?  If so… you’re a Defeated Foe! 

A warrior is one who can’t be conquered!  Even in the event that the outcome of a given situation may appear to show signs of loss – a true warrior always wins!  Why?  Because a true warrior has the mental stability to maintain their focus in the midst of any situation.  A true warrior will have many battle scars – yet they will still say and mean – “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face” (Job 13:15).  A true warrior will genuinely believe that their hope and trust are in the Lord. (And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee. Ps 39:7). A true warrior will “Always and ALWAY” (w/o the “s”) – have a Praise in their hearts and a shout in their mouth (Ps. 34:1).  A true warrior never quits – but maintains the tenacity of a bull dog.  A true warrior is NEVER impressed nor surprised by anything that emanates from the enemy’s camp – but views every circumstance as an opportunity for God to do the miraculous and His name to be glorified!

So I ask again – Which are you… Defeated Foe or Confident Warrior? Your works and lifestyle tell the story!

Did You Hear That?

“And when you shall HEAR the sound of marching in the top of the mulberry trees, then you shall advance quickly.”  I Chronicles 14:15

Today the Lord, our Baal Perazim (the God of Breakthrough) is confirming His position in our current battle.  Just as He was with David, He is reminding us that His wisdom still supersedes that of the adversary. 

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

1. David had to know the voice of the Lord.
2. David had to remain alert and attentive in the realm of the spirit.
3. David had to already have his weapons and be positioned offensively.

When we attempt to correlate this story to our daily lives, we must remember that:

1. David sought the Lord for direction prior to the onset of the battle.
2. The Lord went before David and “Broke Through” the front line of the enemy’s defense.
3. Whatever the Lord has done before, He still has the power to do again.

I found it interesting that David was told to LISTEN for a certain sound. If we are going to know exactly when to advance, conquer and reclaim our territory; then we must critique or fine tune our ability to recognize a specific sound. Far too often we are listening to and follow the wrong sound!  For example, David was instructed to listen for a specific sound - the sound of marching.    

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

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

Our God is still operating as Baal Perazim today.  He has broken through enemy territory and is permitting us to recover all!  But we must LISTEN for our specific marching orders.

Don’t permit a delay in your recovery because you didn’t hear or recognize voice of God concerning His specific instructions, advising you how and when to advance - and recover all!

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

Are You a Spiritual Schizophrenic?

If someone were to ask you that question, what would be your immediate response?  More than likely, everyone would emphatically reply NO!  But if we were to take an inventory of our lives- today - would our “walk” be in alignment with our “talk”.

Basically a “schizo; without getting into too detail; is a mental disorder that makes it extremely difficult and sometimes impossible for a person to tell the difference between what is real and not real; to think clearly; have normal emotional responses; and act normally in social situations.

So, think about your daily walk.  Then consider the following;

1. In the realm of the Spirit…would it be a plus or a negative to be a schizo?
2. Can I readily make the distinction between what is real and “temporal”?
3. Do I display on a regular basis wherever I go the character qualities of who I really am? Or am I still double minded, perpetrating a fraud and an undercover Saint?

Prayerfully consider James chapter 1.  If we are going to make an impact and persevere in these last days, then we will need the endtime wisdom, to strategically comprehend our mission of walking by faith and not by sight!

It’s Manifestation Time!

“Yes indeed, it won’t be long now.” God’s Decree.  Things are going to happen so fast your head will swim, one thing fast on the heels of the other. You won’t be able to keep up. Everything will be happening at once—and everywhere you look, blessings! Blessings like wine pouring off the mountains and hills. I’ll make everything right again for my people Israel: “They’ll rebuild their ruined cities. They’ll plant vineyards and drink good wine. They’ll work their gardens and eat fresh vegetables. And I’ll plant them, plant them on their own land. They’ll never again be uprooted from the land I’ve given them.” God, your God, says so.               Amos 9:13-15 (MSG)

I had read the following vision of a Prophet concerning the above verses: “Two men walked through a freshly plowed field, dark and rich with ready soil. The first man had a very large canvas sack hanging in front of him full of corn seed. The man behind him had a large sickle. They began to walk down the first row in the field and soon were walking in perfect step, right-left, right-left... As the first man walked, he would drop a corn kernel, then drive it deep into the soil using his right heel. As soon as his heel came up out of the deep soil, the corn stalk would immediately spring up to full height and the ears of corn would "pop" into fullness. At almost that exact instant, the man carrying the sickle would swipe through the base of the plant, harvesting it immediately - just barely missing the heel of the man in front of him. This continued down the row: at each step, the seed would fall, be planted, spring to life and be harvested - in an instant.”

Many in the body of Christ are daily beginning to reap the benefits and provisions that have been previously prophesized and witnessed by the Saints of old.  The Word for us as endtime warriors is FAITHFULNESS! God has begun to return to us ALL that has been stolen - and lost; be it through ignorance, negligence or abortion.

However, as you begin to receive, you must remain faithful and sincere in your devotion to your calling, your vision, and your purpose. Manifestation without the proper maintenance will result in failure!  

So… Launch out of the box in your cognitive capacities and don’t limit the interpretation of these verses to just your finances. Expect such an increase in your wisdom, knowledge and understanding, that you will begin to become more proactive instead of reactive, in your approach to the dismantling of every diabolical device aimed in your direction.

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

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

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

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

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

When we fully trust Him – we will obey Him.  

Prayer for Wisdom

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

Your word declares that Wisdom is the principle thing - “The foremost ingredient”.  So today I will begin the process of renewing my mind to the extent that I will seek your wisdom above all else.  With your wisdom, I will accomplish every task to the perfected level that pleases you.

Your wisdom demands that we not simply alter and amend every thought, but every motive, every dream and every issue of life - bringing them subject to your divine will.  Your wisdom demands integrity to the utmost in every area of life from the most minute to the most extravagant.

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

Your wisdom orchestrates the tenacity, the endurance, the discipline, the assertiveness, the guidance and the forbearance required by me to discern and uproot every satanic and demonic weapon formed against me.  Therefore as your word declares, these weapons formed will not be able to accomplish or even initiate the tasks that were assigned to them.

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

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

Father, lastly, I thank you that because I have received your revealed knowledge that wisdom is truly the principle thing;   I will strive now as never before to comprehend, to obtain and to excel in your Kingdom Principles……in your wisdom.                                 

…… In Jesus’ Name.   Amen.

©2003

“P.E.A.C.E.”

Can I still have peace?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Invite in the presence of God; Endure; Ask God for help; Cry to Him and Expect Him to change ME even when the situation doesn’t APPEAR to be changing.  

     __________________________________________________________________________

a - Exodus 33: 14

1 –James 1:22; II Timothy 2:3

     2 –Proverbs 3:5-7

     3 – Psalm 30:2

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