God’s Assurance

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

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

This prayer of Assurance can assist us to affirm and acknowledge our dependency on the Lord; and sustain our confidence in Him.

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.

A full blessed assurance in you validates the fact that because of your sovereign love for me - nothing, nothing, No Thing - that occurs today in my life will cause a detour in your divine will for me.  My assurance, my firm conviction in you mandates that I exercise my blood bought authority this day, to walk above the circumstances of life.  I will never again release from my mouth that I am under, beneath or a victim to my present conditions nor the world’s systems.

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

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

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

Again, I reiterate ….  I am assured that I can only excel! Therefore, because of this assurance that I know I can never, never, never be defeated!

   Hallelujah!!  Thank You Lord!!!                                        

Identity Crisis

“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.  I Peter 2:9 AMP

Today, if we were to take a poll; we would discover that far too many people who profess to believe the Bible to be God’s unadulterated Word; don’t fully comprehend its total message.   Therefore as a result, the entire world is suffering and operating at a level which is inferior or subordinate to its ultimate ability.

We, the body of Christ, appear to be impaired by not knowing the power nor the authority that we possess. We have been limited in our abilities simply because we don’t know who we really are.  In others words we have been constrained by an Identity Crisis.

An identity crisis can occur when a person, or a group of people fail to recognize the relevancy of their innate characteristics and proceed to function from a position of their mental comprehension.  Their lives are governed from the sensory ream instead of the spiritual ream. As a result, those people who are supposed to be displaying the superior characteristics of being the head; are exhibiting the inferior features of the tail.  Those who are called to be that light which shines so brightly in EVERY situation or circumstance; attempt to blend into this world and its customs, ideologies, and methodologies.  Therefore, WE have hindered ourselves simply because …as Hosea expresses; have a lack of knowledge of who we are…. And we are being destroyed!

I would like to challenge you today to think, walk and talk “outside of your box”.  God has begun to catapult us into our wealthy places.  He has begun to permit the return… with interest… of all that we have lost.  However, unless we break this mold of the Identity Crisis; we will not have the ability to maintain our returns.  Refuse to walk in the footprints of yesterday.  Be determined to advance your current status daily.   Change something, enhance your vocabulary and increase yourself in some capacity daily.  Seek the wisdom of the Holy Ghost for guidance.  Remember, God has a great work for YOU to accomplish. However, you must begin to suffer no longer from the effects of an Identity Crisis; but to walk as God’s authoritative voice in and on the earth…. Knowing who you are and whose you are!

FEAR BE GONE!!! ©2003

 Father 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 will now begin the process to renew my mind – daily.  I will develop a new appetite which desires your decreed will for my life – freed from every diabolical hindrance.

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

 In Jesus’ Name.  Amen!

Scripture References

Genesis 26:24

And the LORD appeared to him the same night and said, "I am the God of Abraham your father. Fear not, for I am with you and will bless you and multiply your offspring for my servant Abraham’s sake."

Exodus 14:13

And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you today: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen today, ye shall see them again no more forever.

Psalm 56:4

When I am afraid, I will trust in you.

Proverbs 29:25

The fear of man lays a snare,
   but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.

Romans 8:13

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

Philippians 1:14

……. and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.

I John 4:18

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.

Your Axe-head Will Float Again

(Read: II Kings 6:1-7)

This story as recorded in II Kings has always been among one of my favorites.  Today we will not even be able to “scratch the surface” to reveal all that can be gleaned from the examples and principles provided in this story.  However, we’ll probably come back to it at a later date.

The focus for this meditation is the servant.  He was: working, in the right place, doing what he was instructed to do, using the proper tool and appearing to be accomplishing the task that was required of him.  However, all of a sudden – he was faced with a dilemma.  The very tool that he was using for advancement – which wasn’t even his, (he had borrowed it) – had vanished into the river – never to return again…. So he thought.

When you are faced with a dilemma – who is your first line of defense?  Many times we turn to a spouse, friend, colleague or family member.  Our servant in this story cried to his master.  He cried to someone who had the wisdom, faith and the solution to recover for him what he had lost. Therefore, our first lesson learned from this servant is: my first line of defense should be my Master…. prayerfully  that would be our Lord.

As we proceed through the story we reference the axehead.  This tool can represent any tool (or weapon), that’s necessary for me to be effective as I attempt to advance.  Or any tool (or weapon) used to bring down, cut down or cut through diabolical plans or natural road blocks.  The servant had temporarily lost sight of his weapon.  However with the proper guidance, and instruction, he was able to see the return of his valuable tool.  So, just remember that your situation isn’t hopeless; no matter how it may appear to you. 

It is only when we are in the proper place; receiving the proper supervision; anchored by the proper support and obeying the instructions which are given to us - that we will be able to cause our “axehead” to float again.

The servant had to DO something.   He didn’t just sit and weep about his situation.  He didn’t just tell his friends or colleagues. He told his MASTER! He told someone who had the wisdom to correct the dilemma, and the power to bring about the recovery of want he had lost.  The servant may have had faith, however “Faith” without corresponding actions – is dead.

As we are in this season of recovery; expect your axehead to float again.  Expect every weapon that is needed for your advancement in this season to be recovered.  Expect the outcome of every situation that appears to be impossible, receive an immediate reversal.

 So go now and recover your axehead – but don’t do it your way (leaning to your own understanding!). You must listen to and adhere to the voice of your Master!  You must listen to the voice of wisdom….which may be delivered to you by God directly through His word or by someone who can provide you with the careful and watchful guidance. 

Your axehead will float again.  However you must be in the proper place, listening to the voice of your Master and doing only that which is relevant in this season for your recovery.  

  “Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights.” 

                                                                                                                       Proverbs 18:15 (MSG)

 The Day of Illumination

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 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 Holy Spirit as never before for a fuller revelation of who you truly are…. For without revelation I will have no illumination. 

I ask that you Lord God, my JEHOVAH ORI; as a result of my daily meditational period with you; implant within me the tenacity to seek your face for 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, illuminate and enlarge my territory…. - the territory of my mind, which will produce new imaginations, a new in-depth vision and a new thirst.  Illuminate and enlarge the territory of communications; thus eliminating all non-productive and hindering connections and relationships.   Illuminate and enlarge the territory of my resources; enabling the release of, access to and the manifestation of those hidden treasures which are so necessary for this season.

Lord may I permit your LIGHT to shine through me, so 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 an additional advantage 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 illumination! 

The Worshipper’s Praise

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

                                                                                                                     (The Message Bible)

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

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

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

Learn to sing in the Spirit.  Learn to enter into this type of praise on a regular basis.  The ability to remain focused in the face of adversity is related to the amount of discipline that we are able to achieve.  Discipline is a precursor to one’s ability to offer a reverential praise unto the Lord.    It is this type of praise that will result in our ability to maintain a level of peace and calmness in the midst of every storm. Let your ultimate goal be to offer unto the Lord a type of reverential praise that will demand His attention!

Therefore, when I have learned how to offer a Tehillah praise; I will have also gained the ability to not only impact my daily walk – but will be equipped with the endurance, and composure to walk above every circumstance in this life….  And to immediately recognize and bring to naught every diabolical plot, plan and scheme….. PROactively!

It is only when I have ascended in praise that I can now descend in power, purpose and perseverance.

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

Remember …..It’s A Process!

“Despise not the day of small beginnings……”  Zechariah 4:10

One vital piece of information that we must remember is that mighty oak trees are birthed from tiny acorns; and an apple orchard was produced from one apple seed.   In other words, remember…it’s a process!

The embryotic stages of any living creature are vital and must be carefully guarded and protected.  This will make certain that its ability to reproduce once it reaches the stage of maturity, have been preserved and that it will then successfully reproduce.  Each stage of development is crucial. 

Sometimes we tend to forget that ministry also has its stages of development.  We also forget that our spiritual walk has stages of development.  So don’t permit the spirit of abortion to have victory in your life or ministry. Remember:..  Every one of us is unique – therefore our journey will not be a carbon copy of anyone else’s.    We must learn the art of being confident in whom we are in the Lord; using only His plumb line as our guide.  Far too often we feel as though because our ministry or our spiritual walk is progressing slowly or not even showing any outward signs of progress – that we should just give up.  However, growth initiates from the inside out……. And… It’s a process. 

When I was a school teacher, in our science class the children would plant seeds.  Sometimes they would want to throw the containers away when they didn’t see anything happening.  However, as they continued to care for the seeds, they would eventually see a tiny sprout coming out of the soil…. And the excitement would begin!  They would then be able to see the evidence of the work that was already taking place under the surface.  We as adults, many times seem to forget those simplistic lessons that we’ve learned as children.  We tend to forget that the visible manifestation of anything is secondary…. And that everything in life that is accomplished is manifested gradually …. EVERYTHING involves stages….. Life is a process.

Life is also a waiting game.  However, when we have ENDURED as a good soldier (2 Timothy 2:3) – we will reap the harvest.  God has promised that we will reap in DUE season - however, only if we don’t permit that spirit of abortion to be victorious (Galatians 6:9).   God CAN’T lie (Numbers 23:19).  Therefore learn to wait on the Lord (Psalm 27:14; Isaiah 40:31). 

Remember… again I reiterate …. “It’s a Process”!  You must go THROUGH each stage of your process….because tomorrow’s success will stand tall on today’s perseverance!  

“And let us not be weary in well doing, for in DUE SEASON we will reap, IF we faint not”. Galatians 6:9

Stay in the Race!

“Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him.” I Kings 19:18

While in prayer this morning the Lord simply said, “Encourage my people”.  

So no matter who you are; just know that it’s not by mistake, happenstance, nor by coincidence that you’ve decided to read this message today.  This message is for you!   God knows each of His children and He gathers; or groups us together as He sees fit. God also likes diversity as depicted by the numerous nationalities represented globally.  However, today He sees us as one.  One group…His people.  People who haven’t swayed in their commitment to Him.  A people who haven’t been hoodwinked or distracted by the nonsense of the adversary….you are a vital part of this group….. And for this YOU are to be commended.

In our text we can read and observe the fact that the prophet of God was on the verge of becoming discouraged and giving up…but the Lord had to reveal to him that there were still others in the race.  So God is still saying today …”Stay in the race!”  You’ve accomplished much – yet, there is more work to be completed.  Your road may have been long and seemingly endless  - but just know that the Lord is well please with your achievements.  You may have incurred some bumps and bruises along the way – but you didn’t give up.  Just for that alone…the Lord is saying…. “Well done!”

Whatever you must do; (That’s in accord with the Word of God) that will permit your mind to stay focused – do it.  Always remain cognizant of the fact that our God knows our every motive.  Every single minute occurrence in your life was already prearranged by Him and has emanated from a heart of His pure love for you…. for your advancement.

Remember David.  Through all of his victories and defeats; he had learned the art of edifying himself (I Samuel 30:6); and not permitting the enemy’s tactics to diminish his love for the Lord.  Therefore, the Lord said that he (David) was a man after His (God’s) heart. 

You have accomplished much……however you must continue to press forward towards YOUR destiny…. While still enjoying your today!

So be encouraged – now is not the time to give up or give in to the constant parade of attacks from the enemy’s camp.  Stay in the race! Whatever your pace….stay in the race.   You aren’t walking alone – the Lord has billions globally who are still standing for Him – REGARDLESS!

Today is truly the first day of the rest of your life!!! Stay determined… Stay focused…. And Stay in the Race!!!

“But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”  Matthew 24:13

It’s Been Revealed

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

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

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

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

The door is now open, and access has been granted.   What cannot be seen or imagined in the physical realm – has been revealed and can be observed in the realm of the spirit.  The sky isn’t the limit – for in this season… there is no limit to what God will do for YOU.  Recondition or reprogram your mind to accept that fact – there is not limit!  There is also an open portal. A portal being an opening in the realm of the spirit; which permits access from one realm into another.  Therefore, we are now privy to God’s favor in a fashion that we have not previously known!  Hallelujah!!  However there is a key factor that must be used.  The key in this season is to not cancel or sabotage your own destiny by the WORDS that you are speaking!  Ask God to daily renew your mind with end-time concepts and precepts….end-time strategies and end-time wisdom.  Then, as your mind is renewed; your vocabulary will reveal the same.  

In this season….. we must remember that the stage has been set.  “Revelation” has been made available to us, and has laid the foundation…… therefore, it’s time for “Manifestation” to erect her pillar and to take the center stage! 

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

The Faith Progression

 ^“And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.  For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”  Luke 11:9 & 10

It appears that many Christians believe that the intensity exerted when praying; or the volume of their voices when praying; reflects their ability to receive an immediate response to their request.

I often refer to Paul’s request to the Lord in reference to the “thorn in the flesh”.  The Bible specifically states that he sought the Lord three times.  Why was it important to mention the fact that Paul asked three times?  It seems to imply that he wasn’t accustomed to making a request that many times.  Today, we would have said, “Come on Lord…I’ve asked you 3 times…what’s up?  Why haven’t you done what I’ve asked you yet?”

I know enough about God, my Father, to understand that He is omniscient (all knowing, all seeing and very well informed!).  Therefore God doesn’t have to place me in a given situation and WATCH my reactions or responses to know what I will do.  He has already known exactly what my responses will be prior to me even being born. 

However, I must undergo a progression in my level of faith that will bring forth to me the manifestation and the revelation of God’s response to my request.  Sometimes we can simply “Ask”- something….and the answer is given.  Everyone has that level of faith.  Then there are times when we must dig a little deeper.. – the “Seeking” level.  (Like when you can’t find something and someone else comes in… moves a few things around and discovers what you couldn’t find! You may have looked -but they sought.)  The seeking level is when the revelation of an answer to our prayers may require that our level of faith be increased. At this level, we are required to wait a little longer prior to seeing the manifestation of our request.  Then there’s the “Knocking” level.  Knocking expresses a firm, repetitive motion.  It implies that there is a barrier or a blockage in front of me – something preventing me from gaining that access that I so desire.  So at this level, God is attempting to get me to move out more in faith and take the necessary measures to destroy whatever is preventing me from receiving the access to His response. 

Walking by faith in God requires that we understand the principles of Asking, Seeking and Knocking.  Strangely enough, if we take the first letter from each of those words we will form the word ASK.  Could it be that God is trying to tell us that our faith must progress to the simple level of merely asking and then believing it to be done?  Far too often we tend to make the process more difficult than God intended it to be. He simply wants us to Place our petitions before Him (Ask); Then continue to stand in faith – not wavering nor losing heart. Just finding more scriptures to support our petition that has already been placed before the Lord (Seek); and finally, be PERSISTANT in our expectation of the petition placed (Knock).

God’s ultimate desire for us is to develop our level of faith in Him to the extent that once we have placed our petitions before Him… that we immediately begin to react as though that petition has been granted.  We declare that we are walking by faith; however most of us are not.  Most of us are still walking by sight.  Why do I say that? Simply because many will place the same petitions before the Lord day after day – until they physically SEE the manifestation!   We will sing and say, “Don’t wait til the battle is over…shout now”.  But in our hearts we are still doubting and walking in a diminished degree of faith…. And not totally shouting and rejoicing until we physically have been granted our petitions.  In all actually, most are walking by SIGHT and not by faith!

So let us be determined that we will no longer “walk around in circles” in the area of our faith.  Let us exercise our faith….stretch our faith…. And be more “unwavering” in the area of our faith.  Let’s grasp the total concept of Asking, Seeking and Knocking…. And we will discover that our level of faith will progress from; little faith to great faith to mountain moving faith.  Then we will daily walk in that level of faith, which will produce in us an expectation and an undeniable manifestation of God’s favor in every area of our life!

I Am Encouraged Because I have The

Tenacity To Endure

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

In this season it is imperative that you don’t give up!  We are all on the verge of receiving from the Lord all that He has promised.  Don’t get distracted.  Don’t become weary.  Don’t lose your focus.  Here’s another prayer that the Lord had given to me.  Be Blessed.

Grateful For Your Tenacity (©2003)

Father God, in the name of Jesus, I come to you to acknowledge that “tenacity” is needed to accomplish your divine purpose in my life.  So I come to you now, EARLY. At the beginning of this time of my life.  Since today is the first day of the rest of my life, I have come at the start of this new season, with the realization that I am in a new “place in life”.  For this day has never been seen prior to its awakening.  Therefore, I am in a place that I have not yet experienced. 

I thank you for your diligence, your perseverance, your endurance, your stamina, your assiduity, your determination - that I now possess to be the warrior that you have decreed me to be.

So now Lord, I stand on Romans 8:36-39 and declare that IN all things I am more than a conqueror.  I acknowledge that I already have the tenacity required to receive the manifestation of every blessing that you have outlined for me in your word…simply because as these verses denote – your love for me will never fail.

I will therefore never permit any obstacle or phenomenon in this life to hold me captive.  I will never permit any thought pattern that is contrary to your divine direction to invade my conscience or sub-conscience intellect.

As I have become more tenacious while studying your word; You have revealed your wisdom,

As I have become more tenacious in times of disappointment; You have revealed your   unconditional love and security,

As I have become more tenacious while engaged in spiritual warfare; You have revealed your camouflage, shield, shelter, your protection - as well as the ability to uproot every diabolical plan.

As I have become more tenacious in every area of my life; You have revealed the potency, the discernment, the joy, the peace and the fulfillment that are now evident in my life.

Thank you Lord for the manifestation of a spirit of TENACITY. …..I will embrace it today and forever more!  And it is so.                                                 

Old Habits….

Are They Dead or Dormant?

Read Ephesians 6:10-18

As we progress and grow towards becoming that “profitable” servant; we should discover that many of our ungodly habits and desires appear to no longer be present…which is a great accomplishment.  However, as my Grandmother would say, “Every shut eye ain’t sleep”.

The Lord wants to deliver us from everything that would hinder our walk with Him.  Yet in many instances, we have mistaking thought that we have been delivered from a particular spirit when we really haven’t. Sometimes we’ve eliminated the fruit – but not the root.  For example, we may have seemingly had an issue with: uncontrolled anger, envy, or extreme competition. However, we may not realize that these are only the fruit which have been produced.  The seed or master spirit here may be jealousy.  So I may have dealt with the fruit – yet the root is still lying dormant within me – waiting….sometimes for years to manifest itself again in a different type of fruit.  (I’m really trying to keep this as elementary as possible… I know that some of you have no clue as to what in the world I’m referring to!  However, just hang in there…put this one on the shelf and come back to it later! LOL!)   

So we must ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to us any of the areas in our lives where we think that we have received a “healing”, or deliverance.  (Now…if you are one of those “perfect” people who really can’t see any areas in our life – let me help you a little. Your number one culprit is pride!)  We must make certain that whatever appears to no longer be prevalent in our lives, is truly dead….and not just still sitting around….dormant.

Therefore, because we are living in these endtimes, we can’t make assumptions.  We must make certain that total deliverance has occurred in various areas of our lives – and that we are truly dead in those areas.  We can’t afford to have an issue surface – that we thought was gone!  When we are aware of an unresolved issue in our lives; then we can avoid the “triggers” until we are totally delivered.  However, if we aren’t aware of the fact that an issue is still on board – the results could prove to be disastrous!

Lastly, the Lord is telling me to remind/inform you that deliverance will not be obtained through professional counseling.   It matters not whether the counseling is Spiritual or Secular.  Spirits can’t be counseled! Attempting to counsel a spirit is synonymous to applying a band-aid to a broken leg and wondering why it won’t heal; or why it healed improperly! 

However, once an ungodly spirit is dead (and not dormant); once we have been delivered from it …. then we can seek the proper counseling; if it is still necessary. (Luke 11:24-26)

So just be certain that issues that you once encountered; without regards to how major or minor they may seem to be;… have truly been bound and cast out….. and that they are not merely lying dormant….. awaiting an opportunity to surface ….at just the WRONG time!

Slow down…Be Kind! 

“Kindness can only be sown from a heart that is tender.”

“Elohay Chasdi”

(The God of my Kindness - Psalm 59:11)

Love is patient, love is kind…... I Corinthians 13:4

Read Psalm 59 & I Corinthians 13

It has been said that our actions speak louder than our words.  The Bible states, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32 NIV).   I should always remain cognizant of the fact that if I constantly maintain a disposition of unforgiveness; I will be prevented from possessing the ability to express kindness to others.

So Lord, I ask that you reveal to me anything within me that is yet hindering me from the ability to show compassion, gentleness and thoughtfulness to EVERYONE.  May I not be bias in my actions, but develop a renewed mindset that has become yielding to the extent, that I have the ability to communicate your unconditional love to everyone that I encounter.

May the spirit of pride never mask its self in me, thus manifesting in an: unkind, arrogant, haughty, rancorous, vindictive, egotistical, overly confident, heart.  May I never forget, because   of my own pain, hurt or “convenient amnesia”; the countless acts of kindness that you have displayed and are yet displaying to me.   May I operate daily from that platform.

May my desire to show kindness become more than a mere desire; but become an automatic response especially to those who are not expressing that character quality to me. 

May I rapidly mature to the extent that I will become aware of every selfish motive that I still possess…. and actively make the necessary amendments.  May I also realize that I need not “feel” like being kind….. to produce the action. because it is a mindset. 

Therefore, I decree, as of today; that I have made a conscience DECISION to be kind. Holy Spirit I ask that you bring to mind strategies that will permit me the ability to outwit the enemy when he attempts to provoke me to be unkind.  

Thanks  “Elohay Chasdi” for every expression of kindness that you have extended to me,,, and may I now ,,,,in every situation reciprocate  the same.

I’ll be a Witness…… But to Them?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ezekiel 33:6 reminds us of the importance of being a witness to everyone who hasn’t been warned about their sin nature.  We must receive an amended mindset concerning our concept of the loss, and yes, find the loss…at any cost. 

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

Who Opened That Door?

“Be not deceived” Galatians 6:7a

There is a saying, “All that glitters is not gold.” In other words, everyone and everything that appears to be authentic at a glance; is not always what it or they seem to be. This is particularly true in the realm of the spirit.  Someone or something may seem to emit a certain “weightiness” in the realm of the spirit; however, a closer examination will reveal the truth.  Don’t be deceived by what your physical eyes may behold! 

The spirit of Deception is running more rampantly, and rapidly than in previous times.  We must therefore enhance our ability to quickly discern the authentic actions of the Lord; apart from the imposturous, deceptions of our adversary.

We must also remember that every open door was not opened by the Lord.  Every new opportunity is not always the answer to your prayer! In our attempt to advance, we must not become anxious. Trust the Word of God and wait for Him.  God will never, ever permit or present to us an open door or an opportunity - which in any fashion cannot be aligned with His recorded promises.  The Lord will never open a door whose entrance will lead us to compromise nor negate our relationship with Him….. nor will He ever present us with an opportunity where we must compromise our allegiance to Him. 

In I John 4:1 we are reminded that we must not merely accept what appears to be ordained of God. “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 

Accompanying advancement and elevation are the introduction of an array of open doors.  Therefore, prior to entering into any open door, be certain of its validity.  Prior to entering into any open door, be certain that you maintain your “alertness” in the realm of the spirit.  Be anxious for nothing!  God’s open doors are accompanied by His peace and His assurance.  When uncertain about embarking or venturing into a new area; wait and seek the face of God. 

Always remember that far too often, the adversary desires to make YOU sabotage your own destiny by enticing you to move in the incorrect timing.

So, again… prior to entering into any open door, proceed with caution, stay alert and above all, you must know who has opened the door!

“Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”  Psalm 27:14

You’re An Eagle – So Soar!

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 

There was a time when many of life’s lessons were taught to children through various Bible stories or through secular tales and fables.  One of my most remembered stories is the one entitled, “The Ugly Duckling”.  To summarize the entire story; there was one duckling there was drastically unlike the other little ducklings.  It just didn’t belong.   It didn’t matter what it attempted to do; as a duckling… it was a complete failure.   However one day, this duckling saw another group.   He seemed very comfortable and related to them very well.  Long story short… This so called duckling finally discovered that it wasn’t an ugly duckling as it had been labeled and wasn’t really a duck at all – but a swan….a beautiful swan!

Sometimes in our lives we are not progressing simply because we are attempting to force ourselves into conforming to a standard that is totally contrary to our natural composure.  As a child of the most high God, you are called to be an eagle.  You are called to extend your wings, to lift your head, and to soar high above any and every obstruction.  Many of us are still possessing the mentally and character traits of a common pigeon.  We gather on the ground in clusters, and flutter from one crumb to the next.

An eagle is the only bird that loves a storm.  Other birds will flee from storms; however the eagle will fly into a storm.  They will allow the winds from the storm to quickly lift it higher. When in a storm, an eagle will lock its wings in place, just soar and enjoy the ride. So when you’re in a storm – because you are am eagle…….focus on the Word of God and nothing else. Rebuke fear. Then you will have the peace to extend your wings and ride out the storm!

Eagles have keen vision, are fearless, tenacious, nurturing, full of vitality, and love to fly in high altitudes.  So in spite of how you may view yourself or how others view you – you are an eagle.  An eagle also has an extremely wide wingspan. It is because the eagle’s wingspan is so wide – they can’t be cramped into a small area. 

I would like to encourage you to extend your wings and soar!  The place where you are attempting to fly probably doesn’t possess the space that is required for you to open your wings and to soar!   Nothing else matters today other than the fact that you KNOW that you are an eagle.  Therefore as an eagle refuse to be bound any longer.  As an eagle, face every storm head on.  As an eagle, stand fearless in your place of dominion and exercise your authority. As an eagle, know how to revitalize yourself so that your strength will be renewed.

Lastly, eagles are usually alone.  However when they flock they do so with other eagles (Iron sharpen iron – Proverbs 27:17).   Let’s not forget to take advantage of the vast array of materials that the Lord has made available to enhance your growth. We DO possess within us the DNA of an eagle!  Be determined that from today forward you will only view yourself as an eagle.  Don’t become heady or arrogant… But bold and confident!  Then be unwavering in your conclusion…… and soar yourself through a lifetime of victories!

So as an eagle ….   Spread your wings…… RUN your own race and don’t become weary;

As an eagle… walk out your course and DON’T FAINT!!!

Your Samuel Is On The Way!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not is not the time to throw in the towel!  Nor the time to throw up your hands in a loss of hope.    Remain steadfast…. Your Samuel IS on the way!!!!

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

Transitioned for Transformation

If change is to be effective, relevant and complete, it must occur in our minds.  Therefore, if I haven’t altered my thoughts, opinions and ideas concerning a certain matter, then my actions will not produce a permanent change.

According to the dictionary; transitioned means a process or period which something underwent a change and passes from one state, stage, form, or activity to another.   Therefore by its very nature the word “transitioned” bears witness that I have altered some component of my being.

I have not transitioned if everything about me has remained the same.  However as previously stated this process of transitioning begins in our minds.  My actions will only reflex the activity that my control center - my mind - has ordered. 

Transformation however, expresses the end product; a completed change. 

Today, in this season, God is especially using those who are permitting 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 Saints who have now “Transitioned for Transformation”. 

Although the renewing of my 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 great threat to the kingdom of darkness!                                                                                                  (Luke 10:19)

Above all; when I have been transitioned for transformation, I am now ready to:

  Receive the Manifestation of what God has promised;

  Reveal the Revelation of what God has shown to me .. and

  To be a living Demonstration… an Activist and an Advocate for God by adhering to His written        

  Word on a daily basis.  I am now capable and of walking in the victory, success and supernatural manifestations that God has prepared for me from before the foundation of the world!  Hallelujah!

Our Omniscient God Is Still In Control!

With the onset of the recent tragedies near and afar; comes once again the awareness, that at any given moment our lives can be unexpectedly, permanently altered.

Also, immediately following such, people will begin to focus on the Lord.  Some for comfort and answers, some in anger.  Still others in disbelief that a loving God would permit such to occur.  Records have revealed that after such tragedies the attendance in most churches will increase – for a while as people seek a “refuge”.

We who know the Lord must seize these opportunities to remind people everywhere that everything that the Lord permits to occur is still motivated by His love for us.  I would encourage you to use the discussion of these tragedies to bring an awareness of the Lord to those with whom you come in contact with.

Inform people that:

1.     You may not be able to answer all of their questions; however, God is still in control. That can be verified by the fact that we can witness His covenant of the “day & night”. In these last days, everything that can be shaken – will be. But as long as we can see the daytime followed by the nighttime; we know that God is still in control. (Genesis 8:22)

2.     God has already warned us that these times would come. (2 Timothy 3:1)

3.     God has promised to give us peace in the midst of every storm if we keep Him as our focal point. (Isaiah 26:3)

4.     Again… Everything that the Lord permits is still motivated by His love for us. (Romans 8:37-39)

Remember – we must continually equip ourselves with the proper understanding of the Word of God.  These recent occurrences are just the onset of the tragedies that will occur in the days ahead.  Don’t be caught unprepared.  Don’t permit the spirit of fear to overtake you.  It doesn’t matter what you observe; maintain your focus. Refuse to permit the negative opinions of others to sway you or your knowledge of your God.  God will strategically place you in areas where you will be able to be the most effective at this time.  Seize every opportunity.  The salvation and eternal fate of someone may be dependent upon your responses!

Continue to pray for those who are immediately affected by tragedy; because when we pray…God has promised to respond!

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land”. II Chronicles 7:14

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 are gradually beginning to be plagued by thoughts of hopelessness and the feelings of defeated and worry – simply because of the constant onset of negative harassment emulating from this spirit.

However, we have been already been 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; spiritual wickedness in high places).  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 BE 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 you 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… Above the opinions and stimulations of others! Take the limits off! (Colossians 3:2)

Remember that the sky isn’t the limit…you have no limit!  In this season, you can achieve MORE than anything that you can ask or think! (Ephesians 3:20) Refuse to become intimidated by anyone or anything.  You ARE more than a conqueror!  (Romans 8:37) 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