I’m Still Holding The Reins

Therefore, I’m Yielded ….. But Not Broken

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The Lord wants to be in total control of our lives.  However, for the most part, far too many of His faithful followers haven’t received the boldness which is required for them to operate from a platform of being “broken”.  They are faithful in the “doing” while lacking in the “being”.  In other words we are basically still living our lives from the position of observing the law (the covenant of works); instead of allowing the Holy Spirit to accomplish His work though us.

We have yielded our thoughts, actions and words to the LEADING of the Holy Spirit which is a great achievement… for a new convert.   However, as we mature in the Lord – brokenness is required. 

When I “yield” in a given situation; I remain in control and decide the outcome of that situation.   When I am yielded, I will faithfully and in all sincerity: pay my tithes, “assemble myself with other believers”, study and read my Bible, etc.  However, because I am only yielded – I am still basing my relationship with the Lord on all of these things that I am “doing”.

When I become that broken vessel …. I have matured to the place where I am no longer in control at all.  Therefore my mind has been renewed to the extent that I will move in instant obedience to the voice of the Lord.  A broken vessel truly “Takes no thought for tomorrow” when they receive a command from the Lord. A broken vessel doesn’t worry, fret or become overly concerned about the outcome of situations or circumstances.  A broken vessel has learned the art of resting in the assurance of the unconditional love of the Lord – regardless. 

A yielded vessel will know that they’ve heard the voice of the Lord; but may delay in obeying…

A broken vessel will know that they’ve heard the voice of the Lord and w/o giving it a second      thought - instantly obey.

A yielded vessel will still “stake claims” on their material possessions….

A broken vessel will say, “Lord EVERYTHING that I have is yours” - …. And they will freely release ANYTHING that they possess when the initial instruction comes from the Lord.

A yielded vessel is still in the process of being molded, reshaped and refashioned into one who has been freed from the influences of the enemy– even though they have been saved for quite some time.   A yielded vessel is still developing into a vessel that has been stripped of every traditional ideology, concept and precept.  Then once stripped, this vessel can now be broken by the power of the Holy Spirit and refashioned to be used totally by Him for His glory.  

To be effective in these last days; we can no longer be just yielded vessels.  It’s a new day! The Lord doesn’t desire for us to only be yielded.   We must become broken vessels by Him for Him. 

I challenge you to sincerely seek the face of God, asking Him to reveal the areas in your mind where ungodly or immature strongholds still exist…. The areas where you are only yielded – and not broken.  

We must be determined to become broken vessels because:

Broken vessels are vessels of virtue;

Broken vessels are vessels of valor and above all;

Broken vessels are vessels of Victory!

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.  Isaiah 43:19

I Know No Defeat!!!!

Therefore….. I Can’t Fail

“And this is the confidence that we have in him that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:  And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.”                          I John 5:14 & 15

Walk today as if you have already received everything that the Lord has promised! Wisdom, wealth and riches are in your hand.  God has already placed within your hand the valuable keys which will give you access to every resource needed. However, you must use every available avenue (such as; networking connections, business partnerships, education, talents, gifts, etc… – use them all!) to receive the manifestation of the promises. 

God has already heard your request; He’s already positioned you, , established you, and strategically aligned every detail concerning the manifestation of your request and petitions.  

Reread the recorded accounts of Joseph’s life (Genesis 37-45) and compare them to your life.  Joseph went from the pasture to the pit, to the prison and then to the palace. The manifestation of the promise was a process!

Ask God to reveal to you your three key people….Your butler (the person who will open the doors for you); your Pharaoh (the person who will give you access to unlimited resources); and your baker (the person who will assist you in pulling everything together).

Just like Joseph, I can’t fail!  Why can I not fail? Simply because there is no failure in God; and since His Spirit dwells within me….I CAN’T FAIL!!!  As long as I maintain my focus, God will cause ALL things to work together for my good (Romans 8:28).  Even when the circumstances produce unfavorable and unexpected results; I must remember that I STILL HAVEN’T FAILED!!!  I am determined that even in the times and experiences that others may view as failures; I will learn how to perfect or correct every circumstance that has yielded an unexpected outcome.  Therefore, I have still gained something during the entire experience!  I am emerging wiser, more conscientious or more patient.  Therefore, I haven’t failed! I can’t fail.  Failure is not a part of my DNA; and I refuse to permit anyone or anything to impose that mindset into my spirit!  Whether in my pasture, my pit, or my prison…. I KNOW that I’m being prepared to reign in my palace!  In other words, I have still been increased through every situation….that’s why I can’t label ANYTHING that I’ve encountered as a failure! I can’t fail!!

Trust God! He can’t fail you and He won’t fail you – REGARDLESS!! Whatever you would do …. if you were assured that you would succeed …DO IT!  God IS able to do through you exceedingly and abundantly more than you could ever ask or think.

The ball is in your court… the bat is in your hand.  You may have thought that you were waiting for God …..But in all actuality - He is waiting for You!  Get up! Move out! …. And refuse to feel or to be defeated….REGARDLESS!!!!

“…….The very moment you separate body and spirit, you end up with a corpse. Separate faith and works and you get the same thing: a corpse.” James 2:26 (The Message Bible)

“ For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”                                                                                        James 2:26 (KJV)

Faith, Faith, Faith

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

We have been taught through the Word of God, that Faith is obtained by not simply listening to the Word of God – but through understanding that Word that we hear.  However, what so frequently occurs is that we don’t properly understand the Word.  Then, since we don’t fully understand the Word, the enemy is able to steal the effectiveness of the Word.  (Read the explanation of the parable about the sower and the seed as recorded in Matthew 13:18-23).  Without the proper understanding – we open the doorway of our minds to the knocks of fear, doubt and unbelief. 

We are all given a measure of faith.  However, it then becomes our responsibility to move forward and upward on the “faith ladder”.  I would like to encourage you to check out the seven types of faith that I’ve listed below.  No doubt this list is not conclusive - just a simple measuring stick to get the ball rolling. 

Want to unlock the pathway that leads to more faith??? – The master key is labeled.. “HEARING”!  But not mere listening…. But repetitious listening that will enter my outer ear; begin to penetrate through and dismantle my former mindsets….. and find a resting place in the depth of my spirit and soul.   When the Word that I comprehend begins to institute change …. I am on the road to producing a HEARING ear.  It is this “hearing ear” that creates the platform for my faith to be increased!

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Seven Types of Faith

(Not Listed in any Specific Order)

1. Natural Faith (Ex.- The type of faith that we extend to: bus drivers, our Doctors, our banks,  - no one has ever questioned a bus Driver about their credentials – we just  by “natural faith” take a seat and ride!)

2. Little Faith (Matthew 6:30)
3. Mustard Seed Faith (Matthew 17:20 – small but potent)
4. Great Faith (Matthew 8: 8 & 10)
5. Measure of Faith (Romans 12:3)
6. Faithless Faith (John 20:27)
7. Visual Faith (Luke 5:20)

Remember: Faith without a productive action is still dead. However, the key is this: Don’t  attempt to proceed with an ACTION, until your level of faith has matured to the extent, that it will permit the manifestation of your request! SELAH!

Assertiveness +Anticipation =Advancement!

“You lazy fool, look at an ant.  Watch it closely; let it teach you a thing or two, nobody has to tell it what to do.  All summer it stores up food; at harvest it stockpiles provisions.  So how long are you going to laze around doing nothing?  How long before you get out of bed?  A nap here, a nap there, a day off here, a day off there, sit back, take it easy—do you know what comes next?  Just this: You can look forward to a dirt-poor life, poverty your permanent houseguest!”                                                                                                Proverbs 6:6-11 (The Message Bible)

A while ago I read an article which had been written by John C. Maxwell regarding various lessons which can be learned from the ant.  He said that ants have:

A- Attitude of Initiative (Ants are self -motivated: I Samuel 30:6)

N- Nature of Integrity (Ants work faithfully and need no outside accountability; Proverbs 11:3)

T- Thirst for Industry (Ants labor hard & will quickly replace their anthill when it gets destroyed;   Proverbs 12:27; 10:4)

S- Source of Insight (Ants store provisions in summer; John 9:4)

    (Note: Scripture references and the information written within the parenthesis – in red, were added by Apostle Boatwright and were not included in John Maxwell’s article.)

After reading that article, I concluded the following.

When we consider the ants we can also observe that they are never intimated by obstacles or the presence of anything that they may encounter.  Whatever is placed in front of an ant will not defeat or convince it to surrender…. or become distracted from its mission.  They may be forced to discover an alternative route – however they won’t quit!  The ant is one of the smallest creatures – yet they are some of the hardest workers.

Also, the ants “make haste while it is day”.  They know that the night will come when they will not have the ability to work. We should become encouraged from the tenacity which is shown by the ant; because our night is coming! (I’m not referring the physical nighttime!)

The ants are always anticipating …..always in preparation for tomorrow.  The ants always keep in mind that they must advance…. That their mission is before them.  There are times when you may observe that an ant is attempting to carry a load that is twice their size – however, because they have a “mindset” that is motivated for success; they will always achieve their goal. 

We, like that ant, are “wired” for success.  Therefore whatever obstacles that present themselves must be conquered….. simply because the Bible says that we can do all things through God’s strength (Philippians 4:13) AND that we are MORE than conquerors (Romans 8:37)!

So, looking forward, let’s always, with great: expectation, motivation and determination have that same zeal which is found in the ants.  I challenge you today to “anticipate” and “advance”.  In other words, expect the daily “bumps in the road”; but don’t permit them to cause you to lose your focus.  Remember that a group of workers….  No matter how small……All pulling in the same direction….. all sharing the weight of the load….. Will get the job done successfully! Develop a mindset that because of who I am, whose I am and to whom I belong…. I am supposed to….. and I will emerge from every situation as the victor and not the victim! 

 To summarize: When I develop an assertive mindset; and When I maintain a spirit of anticipation and expectation; then I will victoriously advance and excel in all that I endeavor!

 Your road may be long and your journey may seemingly be up hill; however, you must remember the ant and keep in mind the old cliché: a winner never quits… and a quitter never wins!     

                                           “I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH GOD WHO WILL GIVE ME THE STRENGTH”

Spiritual Cataracts

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

Read: 2 Kings 6:8-22

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

When a person has a cataract in the natural; they have a condition in which there is a cloudiness of the lens in the eye that prevents light from passing to the retina; which can impair their vision. (Brief explanation)

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

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

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

When someone undergoes cataract surgery in the natural, it’s not a “one size fits all” procedure.  Some situations are “out of the norm” and will require the expertise of one who is more knowledgeable.  For example, our expectations of an optometrist are not the same as for an ophthalmologist…although they are both concerned with our eyes.  Therefore, prior to undergoing a successful spiritual surgery we must consult our Chief Physician! We must ask the Lord to reveal every area in our lives where He is still not “Lord”.   In other words; those areas where the illumination of His word is not prevailing to the extent, that we are willing to bring a total submission to His divine authority.  Ask Him for the corrective orders and directions which will permit an enlightenment of who He is to be evident and to prevail in your life.

Lastly, remember that God will perform the necessary procedures – but we must be willing to do our part by walking in obedience, persistence, and a determination to do whatever the He mandates for our lives.  As with any surgical procedure, the after care and follow-up instructions are of vital importance.  After a spiritual procedure, one must adhere to God’s directives… to divert the reoccurrence of the same or worst condition!

Make the preparations for surgery today….enough time has already transpired!

The Search Is On…Do You Qualify?

“……The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: ……. Luke 10:2

The Lord is still seeking for those who are qualified to be an example in leadership.  Now…. you’ve been “saved” for quite a few years; you know quite a few scriptures; and can effectively convince someone of their need to deepen their relationship with the Lord.  However, what would your true character reveal if you were selected for this current search?

Let's take a look ……. You be the judge!

1. Does my love for the Lord reflect in my: emotions, reasonings, and my actions?
2. Do I spend quality time in the presence of the Lord – daily?
3. Am I a bold advocate for the cause of Christ?
4. Am I familiar enough with my “sword” as to know the “flavor” of its content?
5. What is the opinion of the people in my community concerning my: integrity, friendliness, and my active involvement within the community?
6. What about my employer and my fellow coworkers? What is their opinion of my Spiritual convictions? Do they even know of my profession concerning my Lord?
7. What does my check book and my social media giving platforms reveal concerning my stewardship in the area of finances?
8. What type of financial supporter am I to those who minister to me on a regular basis?
9. Are my choices and the style of my clothing in accord with what is “satisfactory” and pleasing to the Lord?
10. Above all, is my overall lifestyle a display of that which would consider me to be classified as a current day disciple?

So if the Lord were to use the above brief list as a “white glove” to survey our lives…. would that glove still remain white after the survey?  Remember….God doesn’t require educational degrees, eloquent speech or a “padded” bank account  – but He does require obedience, commitment and perseverance.   

Yes…. The search is on….. Do you qualify?  (if not…get to steppin!!!)

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 (ESV)

Our Young Men Are Always Under Attack!

(Note: With the recent unveilings and enlightenments of violence occurring nationally concerning our young men, many people have requested this to be reposted.  Let our focus also be extended to all of the families whose lives are and have been affected by acts of violence.)

It has always been the intention of our adversary to prevent the manifestation of God’s divine plans and purposes…especially concerning the men.   The Lord had inspired me to write the prayer below quite a few years ago; however I recently found it and began using it again.

The attack on the minds of our young men is far greater now than in prior times.  However, when we pray…God will honor our petitions that we place before Him.  I would like to encourage you to take a stand and to zero in on some of the young men in your life, in your family, in your church, and in your community.  Claim the promises of God for their lives.  Remember, we never have to beg God to do something.  We only need to decree, stand in faith and WAIT for the manifestation…..because God never fails!

PRAYER FOR OUR MEN ©2007

 Father in the name of Jesus, I thank you for the opportunity to lift our young men up to you.  I also thank you that these men will fulfill your decreed plans and purposes for their lives.  As an intercessor, I stand and ask that you; Elchaynu Seichot - Our God of forgiveness; will forgive their acts of omission and commission towards you.  I decree that they will begin to rise up and assume their rightful places in this earth.  I dismantle, and break from their lives the power of all negative word curses that they have received into their spirits.  I disengage previous thoughts and behavioral patterns that have been contrary to and that have delayed the full manifestation of your blessings in their lives.  I decree that they will now begin to operate as your priest in every area of their lives without delay.

I speak healing to their entire being, in the name of YHVH ROPHE….God our healer.  Healing to the area of their minds that encases their emotions, their thoughts, their imaginations, and their reasonings.  Permit their minds to healed to the extent that they will not bow nor submit to the spirits of; humiliation, loneliness, discouragement or rejection.   YHVH BORE- God our creator; restore and create anew their spirits, creativity and dreams. 

Stress and anxiety be gone in the name of Jesus.  I decree and declare that they are totally healed; physically, totally healed psychologically, and totally healed spiritually in the name of Jesus.

Through the power of YHVH PERAZIM – the God of Breakthrough; I call forth a breakthrough anointing that will uproot the spirit of anger, dismantle rage and dissolve bitterness in the name of Jesus.  I decree that the blood of Jesus will infiltrate every wounded area of their being and further cleanse any and every area not named or known to me….but known to you EL DE’OT.. the God of knowledge,

Now Lord, since they have been set free; I decree that your peace will begin to manifest itself in their lives.  I ask that they will sense and feel the newness in their spirits and begin to respond positively and offer no resistance to this total healing process.  I ask that you will send anointed men into their lives to assist them in this new place.  I decree that they will begin to develop new relationships with other like caliber men.  I decree and declare the manifestation and activation of their God appointed spiritual covering.   Father God, I ask that you will reveal to them the proper mentors whom you have already assigned and prepared for them.  Men who are already picking them up in the realm of the spirit and who will intercede for them on a regular basis.  Reveal male intercessors who know the struggles and aspirations of our young men. Reveal intercessors who will not come down from their appointed places of intercession for these young men – until you release them from their assignments…in the name of Jesus.

I also call forth the manifestation of every spiritual gift in them.  Those gifts that you have placed in them even before the foundation of the world; will manifest at the appointed time and not be delayed.  I speak that you will open doors of opportunity for these young men to minister to other young men.  I also decree that every door that you have not opened will be permanently sealed – never to be opened again.

Lastly, Lord God, I ask that you will honor this prayer and manifest every request according to your already decreed word recorded in: Job 22:27 & 28; I John 5:14 & 15 and in Matthew 18:19 in the name of Jesus. Amen, Amen, Amen!

The Spirit of Goliath

“Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, since he defied the armies of the living God.” I Samuel 17:36

We, the body of Christ must continually be on guard for the endtime release of familiar spirits.  Although their approach may be enhanced or altered to reflect our current times – the underlying spirit is the same as before.  One of these is the spirit that I’ll call the spirit of Goliath.

This spirit will attempt to taunt, boast, and present an appearance of supreme rule over the body of Christ.  It will attempt to paralyze the body of Christ and to infiltrate our minds with fear, doubt and disbelief.  It will also attempt to challenge, mock and to belittle through repeated verbal proclamations.  Unless this spirit is recognized; we the endtime body of Christ will begin to become subject to and submissive to the boundaries which it will impose.   We will gradually begin to be plagued by thoughts of hopelessness, feel defeated and worry - because of the constant onset of negative situations emulating from this spirit.

However, we have been already given the “Ability & Authority” capsulized with the wisdom from the Holy Ghost, thus enabling us to conquer every demonic force (Matthew 10:1; Luke 10:19).  The power that engulfed David (I Samuel 17) and empowered him with the wisdom to defeat the lion and the bear had already prepared him to successfully stand and slay Goliath.  We also have defeated our lions (things that have attacked us from the ground) and our bears (attacks which have approached from above).  Therefore we have passed the test and are ready to kill this “Goliath Spirit” without hesitation. 

Lastly, we must also remember that in this season, the attacks are geared more to our minds than to any other areas of our being and our lives.  If this or any spirit – other than the Holy Spirit can intervene into our thought patterns for just a brief moment we risk defeat!

The attacks are just beginning and will become more intense in the future.  However we must never forget that– THE BATTLE HAS ALREADY BEEN WON!  We only have to remain focused, and adhere to our instructions from the Lord concerning the maintenance of our daily walk with Him.  Set your affections, your cares and your attentions more on the things which are above….  Above your present level of operating….Above what you currently think that you are capable of accomplishing.

Remember that the sky isn’t the limit…you have no limit!  In this season, you can achieve anything that you can ask or think! Refuse to become intimidated by anyone or anything.  You ARE more than a conqueror!  So place everything that is contrary to what God has decreed, under the subjection of the power that reigns within you!

Slay that spirit of Goliath at its onset, maintain your focus, keep your affections on Kingdom Principles….and you won’t have to be overly concerned about succumbing to the power of this or any other demonic force.

“Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”  I Peter1:13 NASB

What about the Christmas Tree?

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.”  Proverbs 3:5 ESV

I wasn’t going to post this again, however, here it is.  Perhaps someone needs to share this with friends, family or coworkers.

 It appears that every year more and more people are being misled.  They are not researching the scriptures for themselves concerning the use of a Christmas tree as an added component to their Christmas decorating.

The scriptures in question are Jeremiah 10:1-5 and Isaiah 44:12-28.  To summarize the teachings; these scriptures are referring to those who would cut down trees, decorate them, and burn them to use them for heat.  In these scriptures, they would also take the trees to woodcarvers to have images engraved upon them and/or pray to them.  Those trees would be used for idol worship.  So, my question is: “Are you worshipping your Christmas tree?”  Are you using or involving it in worship instead of worshipping Jehovah God?  Are you idolizing it or having images engraved in it?  This is what was being address by the Prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah.

Then some are stating that the Christmas tree should not be used because of its Pagan origin.  Well, to be truthful most of the practices that we have adopted have such an origin….Yet we adhere to them.  If I were to name just a few that we entertain on a daily basis many of you would be surprised.  I would even dare to say that everyone of us engages in at least one of these practices every single day!

Let’s not permit the enemy to allow us to become distracted by causing our focus to drift.  Christ must be the focal point of EVERYTHING that we are involved in.

REMEMBER: Jesus is still the reason for this season!  It’s really not that deep!!!!

Colossians 3:17 states it this way: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all to the glory of God.”

Our Christian religion is composed of various symbols. The Evergreen Tree which is used during the Christmas season should be viewed as just another symbol that can be implemented at this time of the year for the believer. Therefore, as for me, whatever I bring into my home will be used to bring glory and honor to the Most High God.  I won’t worship the tree.  However, I will permit each ornament and each piece of decoration on my tree to stand as a visible reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ; and to serve as a reminder of the everlasting, ever-abiding presence of the Holy Spirit… whose power has birthed and illuminated an unquenchable flow of Love, Joy and Peace!

May the Spirit of God, that infiltrates the atmosphere at this time of the year be yours and empower you to receive an enhanced dimension of who He truly is!!!

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all your getting get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7

(FYI: Also, while it makes a nice display; it’s Biblically incorrect to have the Wise Men in your Nativity Scene…. They didn’t find Christ until He was much older!!!!! Do the research for yourself.)

Completely Synchronized

“For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.”  Habakkuk 2:3

Simply because we are quickly approaching the end of time as we now know it; it is imperative that our “clocks” are in alignment with God’s agenda for this season.

I’m reminded of a few instances when people were in the right place (their physical location and their spiritual position), at the right time.  Therefore, because their time clocks were synchronized with God’s timing - they were blessed beyond measure.  Consider the: Woman of Samaria (John 4), and The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8;26-40); they were positioned in the right place at the right time – and therefore were able to encounter life altering experiences.

To be completely synchronized I must:

• Know what season I am personally undergoing. Just understand that your personal season may differ from others who are in your church, temple, synagogue, etc.  
• Understand the process of: Seed, Time & Harvest. I feel that all seeds - when sown and properly cared for will produce fruit. (Note: Because of the potency of MY seed, I truly believe that even if I sow it into unfavorable soil – it will STILL produce 100 fold!) However, there is a process that must be adhered to prior to receiving the fruit.  Even though we are approaching the time when the “plowman will overtake the reaper (Amos 9:13)” – we must still understand the process to be synchronized.  (Note: Also apple seeds won’t produce oranges.  You can fast, pray, command and demand…. But those apple seeds will only produce apples….after the seeds have matured and are ready to be harvested. We must also know what type of seed to sow and when!)
• Know the voice of God. We are living in an era where the enemy is using those who are in positions of authority to attempt to displace, dismantle and demolish the authentic voice of God. Remember God’s voice will ALWAYS be in alignment with His written word.  (Note: Even when you are given instructions from those who are attempting to provide Godly counsel, KNOW and OBEY the voice of the Lord. SELAH!)
• Value my time by not becoming distracted by anything that is not God ordained for THIS season.

To be completely synchronized with God’s future plans concerning us is not difficult.  However it will require of us a determination to acknowledge Him in ALL of our ways – as He leads us step by step; day by day…. And in most instances minute by minute!

“Timing is so important! If you are going to be successful in dance, you must be able to respond to rhythm and timing. It’s the same in the Spirit. People who don’t understand God’s timing can become spiritually spastic, trying to make the right things happen at the wrong time. They don’t get His rhythm – and everyone can tell they are out of step. They birth things prematurely, threatening the very lives of their God-given dreams.” –An Anointed Man of God

The Essential Foundational “Ships”    

As we continue to progress upward and inward; we must on a regular basis check on the anchorage of our “ships”.  We must be certain that these ships are still sailing at their highest momentum; unhindered by any contrary forces that we have established.  Far too often we have a tendency to excel in one area; while another is left uncharted.  Let’s prayerfully review the “ships” listed below. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance in making any pertinent alterations.  There are several other “ships”, however, these are the focus for today.

LORDSHIP – Is God the Lord of my life?  How much validity does my life display or reflect with regards to being a living example of His written Word?  Does my proclamation the He is Lord in my life warrant me as a candidate to be considered as a twenty-first century disciple of Christ? (Galatians 2:20)

MEMBERSHIP & FELLOWSHIP – “No man is an island”.  Therefore we must remember that we are all a pertinent puzzle piece to someone’s puzzle.  One thing that is extremely frustrating, and that is to attempt to complete a puzzle and realize that some of the vital pieces are missing.  God has created us to be communicable creatures with the desire to “belong”.  Therefore, when we are actively involved in a positive productive group – we are content.  Civic and secular group memberships are necessary; but should never outweigh our commitment to our local church family.  (Hebrews 10:25)

STEWARDSHIP – The importance of our Stewardship can’t be limited to just our finances.  The Lord expects us to be conscientious and to use wisdom in the dealings with everything that we encounter.  The accountabilities of Stewardship can even be extended to our thoughts, our actions and of course to our gifts. (I Peter 4:10)

As stated earlier, there are others ships which are also sailing in our spiritual seas such as: friendship, leadership, ownership and partnership….just to name a few.   However, in our daily quest, let’s stabilize those listed above.  Then we will discover that we will become more of a profitable servant for the Lord,… one who will possess the ability to bring Him glory; on a regular, daily basis…. And in every situation.

      Apostle Claudia Boatwright ©2009

              T – TRIUMPH (2 Corinthians 2:14)

Now thanks be unto God which always causeth us to triumph in Christ.

               H – HOPE (Psalm 3:7)

And now, LORD what wait I for? My hope is in Thee.

               A – ASSURANCE (I John 5:14)

And this is the assurance that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he hearth us.

               N – NO GOOD THING (Psalm 6:10)

For the Lord God is a sun and shield….No good thing does he withhold from them who walk uprightly.

               K – KINGDOM PRINCPLES (Matthew 6:10)

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

               S – SHOUT (Psalm 47:1)

O clap your hands, all ye people, SHOUT unto God with the voice of triumph.

               G – GIVE (Luke 6:38)

Give, and it shall be given unto  you; good measure, pressed down shaken together and running over shall men give unto you.

                I – I CAN DO ALL THINGS (Philippians 4:13)

I can do everything through Him who give me strength.

                V – VICTORY (Psalm 44:5)

Through you we will push back our adversaries; Through Your name we will trample down those who rise up against us.      

                 I- INTERCESSORS (Romans 8:26)

But the Spirit, himself makes intercession for us.

                N – NO WEAPON (Isaiah 54:17)

No weapon formed against you shall prosper.

               G – GOODNESS (Psalm 23:6)

Surely goodness and mercy (love) will follow me all of the days of my life.

 God’s Comma Signifies Rest!

“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 written communication to be successfully comprehended.  

One such marking that most of us are familiar with is the comma.  The comma, unlike the period informs us the we haven’t arrived at the end of the sentence; 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 though we should proceed “right now”.  This may be the time when it is necessary to take a brief pause – and then continue on. 

Reflect on this thought, “You just might be experiencing the awareness 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.  Far too often I hear people say that they are going to fast and prayer when they are faced with a difficult situation….. because they want God to change His plans concerning their situations.  Fasting doesn’t change the mind or decision of God – it changes us and increases our level of faith.  Therefore, don’t lean to your own understanding.  Seek the face of God… and walk or wait there in.

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”; suddenly 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

Check Your Connections!

 ^“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, unless He revealeth His secret unto His servants the prophets.” Amos 3:7

Would you like to know the newspaper headlines for tomorrow?  What if your country’s security intelligence forces had the proper connections in advance to focus on where the next terrorist attack would occur? … Or the next major local catastrophe?  It doesn’t matter the situation; proper preparation requires that I get connected to the correct source to obtain a “heads up”.  When I am properly connected to the right source, I will be informed and prepared.  I can then advance to my next place in the realm of the spirit; in peace and harmony…. On time …. regardless to any diabolical road blocks!

The Lord loves us to the extent that He doesn’t want us to become alarmed or caught by surprise with the negative occurrences which will become apparent in the future.  He has promised to inform us of His intentions. However we must avail ourselves to those to whom He has given the ear to hear His prophetic voice.  It is imperative in this season that we get connected to those who can authentically represent and relay the voice of the Lord concerning the future.  We must get connected to those who have truly been anointed by God and have the ability to communicate to us His specifics concerning future events.

As I have so often said, the time to prepare for the calamity is prior to its occurrence. Our successful survival is dependent upon our ability to be proactive– rather than reactive; to be prepared rather that caught by surprise when major tragedies occur.  So now is the time to connect or to re-connect. 

• Get connected to someone who can correlate their insights concerning the future to the Word of God.
• Get connected to someone who has a proven positive track record.
• Get connected to someone who is willing to teach and lead by example; rather than just prophesy.
• Above all, get connected to the person (or persons) that the Lord is leading you to - not necessarily the person that is the most popular – but the person with whom the Lord validates within your spirit.

We can possess proper and powerful tools; however without the intervention of our God given connection(s), our production will be limited or possibly non-existent.    For example; one may purchase the finest electrical equipment possible.  However, if they have no means of receiving an electrical current; or if they can’t get connected to a working power source; their expensive tools are useless! 

So in this season… check your connections.  It is possible that the hindrance that you are encountering could simply be that it’s time to amend those to whom you are connected.  Sometimes we are trying to fix and patch up something that has served its purpose and needs to be discarded, replaced or upgraded.

There is approximately only one month left in this year.!  Begin to assess your connections.  Ask the Lord for the wisdom and the grace to “clean house” as you consider both your spiritual and secular connections.  Examine your connections closely and terminate those that the Lord deems are no longer beneficial.  Trust in the Lord ….He has never, nor will He ever steer you to the wrong connections.  Remember it’s not who you know….but to whom you are connected!!!

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:  And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.”   I

Transitioned  for Transformation

Have you been transitioned for transformation?    Have you observed the recent “Shift” in the attacks which have been released from the kingdom of darkness?   Many have been expressing the nature of their recent attacks; all of which have taken a different slant from the “normal” diabolical attacks.    However, because we are in the process of being transitioned for the transformation – we have been able to withstand the pressure and we continue to proceed without the stress and anxiety that we would have previously experienced.   We have begun to elevate our thought processes to become more proactive than reactive.  We have finally realized that if change is to be effective, relevant and complete, it must be initiated in our minds.

 Nevertheless, we must continue to realize that the process is yet not completed.  There are areas in our minds that are still “a work in progress”!  Our actions will always reveal what’s truly occurring on the inside. Therefore, if we haven’t altered our thoughts, opinions and ideas concerning a certain matter, then our actions will not produce a permanent change.

According to the dictionary; transitioned indicates a process or period which something underwent a change and passed from one state, stage, form, or activity to another.   Therefore, by its very nature the word “transitioned” bears witness that there has been an alteration in some component of our being.   We have not transitioned if everything about us has remained the same.  However as previously stated this process of transitioning begins in our minds.  Remember, our actions will only reflex the activity that our control center – our mind - has ordered. 

Transformation however, expresses the end product; a completed change.  I’m reminded of a toy that was popular many years ago called a transformer.  Every part of the toy had the ability to be changed.   With this toy the children could twist and turn the movable parts and “transform” the shape and appearance  of the toy from one creature to another.

Today, in this season, God is especially using those who have permitted their minds to be transitioned by the indwelling power of Holy Ghost…. and through that transition, He has brought them into a state of transformation that cannot – will not ever be diminished.  It is these people, who are totally sold out for the Lord, who have been “Transitioned for Transformation”. 

Although the renewing of our mind is a progressive process; once the transition has produced transformation in a given area – then, that area cannot ever be controlled by the enemy again.

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

        I now have the ability to treasure and to be entrusted with the “weightier” matters.   (Luke 16:11)

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

        My total allegiance is to no one but the Lord. (Matthew 22:37)

 When I have been transitioned for transformation:

         I have no excuses for not walking in obedience to the call of the Lord on my life. (Luke 11:28)

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

         I know no defeat – I don’t have the ability to, nor the knowledge of failure.  (Philippians 4:13)

When I have been transitioned for transformation:

         I have not reached perfection in every area – but I am a threat to the kingdom of darkness!  (Luke 10:19)

  So again I propose the question, “Have you been transitioned for transformation”?  If not, now is the perfect time to get the ball rolling.

 If you have been … GREAT!! Now, maintain your allegiance to the Lord…. Keep your focus.  Just know that because you have been Transitioned for the Transformation ,,,you are now ready to :

 Receive the Manifestation…. Expose the Revelation.. and be a Demonstration…. of God’s power and authority over every diabolical force that you may encounter on a daily basis!

The Day of Illumination

 (Extracted from “Because of the blood of Jesus, my mind is focused” )

Lord may I permit your light to shine through me—REGARDLESS.

“JEHOVAH ORI”

(The Lord my light - Psalms 27:1)

Read Psalm 27 & St. John 1

To summarize the concept of “Illumination”, we could state that illumination is when God, through the working of the Holy Spirit conveys to us an understanding of a revealed Bible truth.  

So today, Lord I ask that you illuminate every area of my mind that appears to be dark - void of understanding.   Your Son has come to us as our Light; as our path to understanding your desires for us.  Today may I seek the Holy Spirit as never  before for a fuller revelation of who you truly are…. For without revelation I will have no illumination. 

I ask you Lord God, my JEHOVAH ORI; that as a result of my daily meditational time with you; that I will continually seek your face for the true illumination.  May I never fall prey to the ideologies, concepts, and endtime thought patterns that have been released from the kingdom of darkness.  If I must stand seemly alone; let me never compromise or keep hidden the illuminated revelations that you have given to me.  My effectiveness as an endtime warrior will only be maintained if I seek you daily for an amended illumination of my previously learned strategies. 

May I realize that just because it’s a new season, that fact alone won’t assure me of receiving your “multidimensional” illuminations.  Lord, enlarge my territory…. - the territory of my mind, which will produce new imaginations, a new in-depth vision and a new thirst. 

Lord may I permit your LIGHT to shine through me, that I may then in return, share with others an increased measure of wisdom, revelation knowledge and endtime strategies. May my newly received illuminated status, permit me to no longer be biased towards ANY concept that would encourage me to limit my ability to extend your unconditional love to everyone. 

As a result of your illumination may I be reassured that you have created, anointed and appointed me….. for such a time as this.  I will not waste time – but will now aggressively pursue your intended plans and purposes for my life.  Thank you, Jehovah Ori, for all that will be revealed to me as I embrace the benefits of my new dimension of illumination! 

The Next Global Reset – Are You Prepared?

“Blow the ram’s horn trumpet in Zion! Trumpet the alarm on my holy mountain! Shake the country up! God’s Judgment’s on its way—the Day’s almost here! A black day! A Doomsday! Clouds with no silver lining! Like dawn light moving over the mountains, a huge army is coming. There’s never been anything like it and never will be again. Wildfire burns everything before this army and fire licks up everything in its wake. Before it arrives, the country is like the Garden of Eden.  When it leaves, it is Death Valley. Nothing escapes unscathed.” Joel 2:1-3

Simply because there is truly nothing new under the sun, we can always use our Canon as a reference point in preparation for our future.

So, the question to be considered for today is, “How have you begun to prepare for  the next “The Global Reset”? 

We all have experienced adjustments following the “plan”demic.  However, now is not the time to consider that, “all is well”.  While many are preparing by securing economically – which is to be commended.  Nevertheless, what is of greater importance is the preparation of our spiritual status.

Disaster occurs for us, the body of  Christ when we have not properly adhered to the warnings from the Lord concerning our future.  Now is the time when we are required to “fortify the loins of our minds.”   Now is the time that the Lord has given to us to seriously evaluate our relationship with Him. 

Consider these scenarios:

If there was a sudden extended lapse in your ability to communicate with anyone via your technological devices – what would be your initial reaction?

If there appeared at your door, armed personnel with instructions for you to immediately leave and follow them, because there had been a sudden and illegal seizure of power from another or foreign government -what would be your response?

There are various situations that could be referenced. The Lord wants us to prepare our minds and our bodies NOW for the days ahead.  We must remember that our adversary only has the upper hand when we are negligent in our preparation to defeat him. 

Let’s begin today to aggressively amend our current status in relationship  to the position that Holy Spirit has within our lives.  Consider that we need to be more prepared for the times ahead.  Now is not the time to become complacent, comfortable or remain ignorant concerning the future.

So, are you ready for the next “plan”demic?  Its occurrence is eminent.

We have already been given the weapons that will assure us of victory.   However, if we are not aware of our weapons, or have “dull” weapons we will not walk in the victory that the blood of Jesus has purchased for us!

“But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, …….”  Luke 21:36  (ESV)

Don’t Drop Your Baton

“Look straight ahead; don’t even turn your head to look. Watch your step. Stick to the path and be safe. Don’t sidetrack; pull back your foot from danger.”            Proverbs 4:25-27 (LB)

On yesterday,  Don't Drop Your Baton",was the basic concept and  the instruction that the Lord had given.  We were instructed to:

1. Acknowledge that we all have been given a baton to carry
2. Value YOUR baton (As individuals your baton has been personalized, and you shouldn’t expect it to mirror exactly anyone else’s.)
3. At any cost, don’t permit the enemy to convince you to relinquish – whether accidently or on purpose – your baton.

We must understand and expect that opposition will always attempt to counter act our every endeavor.  However, when we seek the face of the Lord, He will always, and alway (no s) supply us with the strategies required.

When we referred to the story of Mephibosheth, we can recall that his nurse dropped her “baton”. Although the entire incident was noteworthy, and her reasoning valid.  The fact still remains that – in her haste, she dropped her precious baton.  Which resulted in permanent disfiguration of an innocent person.

Therefore, as endtime “baton carriers” we must be certain that when the spirits of:

• Fear attempt to surround us, one of our reference points will be - Joshua 1:9
• Frustrations come to confuse our thoughts, we rely on - Exodus 14:14
• Disappointments present themselves to discourage us, we will remember that our baton was decided by the Lord – even prior to our birth – Psalm 139:13-16

So, just remember that the Lord has given to each of us a baton….a job to do,  something that is precious, and very valuable to His kingdom.  If you truly value your baton,  you will stay committed at any cost – and never, ever drop your baton!

The Optical Illusion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

God Has Called You To Greater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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