You Are My Lord…. You Are My King 

“ ...Because you are my LORD, you are my glory.”

“Jehovah Kabodhi”

(The Lord My Glory – Psalm 3:3)
“But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.”        Psalm 3:3

Read: Psalm 3 & Psalm 27

Today, I will affirm that through your power, Jehovah Kabodhi, I will always bring your glory, radiance, and splendor into every situation.  I affirm that you are the lifter of my head.   I also affirm that failure is never an option.  I have given to you the place of authority, and supreme “ruler-ship” in my life.  Therefore, as I permit my will, emotions, and thoughts to be further conformed into your image – I am becoming that vessel of honor; broken by your love; and completely covered by your shield of protection.

May I never, ever become so overwhelmed by the nonsense of the adversary, that I forget that no weapon he devises can prosper.  It is because of your place of lordship in my life, that you may delay but never deny me anything necessary for me to succeed.    As my shield, your power is both offensive and defensive.  May I always remember that as my Lord, it is through the sustaining power of your Holy Spirit, that you have sealed within me gifts and anointings that are being manifested in this season.   Lord, reveal to me every area where your lordship does not have the preeminent rule.  May I continually realize that in every area of my life where you are not Lord; I AM committing self-sabotage.  I AM opening the door; that I AM permitting an entrance for my enemies and I AM placing a break in your protective shield. 

May I never cease to honor, and uphold you as my true Lord over and in every situation.  May my mind never wander nor become double - minded….because you are my Lord.  May I daily cast down every vain imaginations and every high thing that attempts to exalt itself against your divine Lordship in my life.

Lastly, because you are my Lord, may I daily captivate and bring every thought attentive to your obedience. Since every action is preceded by a thought, if I permit you….. Through the Holy Spirit… to correct my thinking; I will receive a renewed mind.  I will then have the ability to establish your “Lordship” over my mind.  I will have a mindset that is governed by kingdom principles…. and my daily walk will reflect that which is worthy of your approval.

Thank you Lord that will never walk in fear because I am perpetually protected, triumphant and successful in my every endeavor!  You are my Lord…..you alone are God!

King of my life, I crown Thee now,
  Thine shall the glory be;
Lest I forget Thy thorn-crowned brow,
  Lead me to Calvary.

                                                                by Jennie Evelyn Hussey (1874-1958)

Who or What is Your Strong Tower?

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.”

                                                                                                                            Proverbs 18:10

Although we might not realize it, we all have a strong tower.  Our strong tower can be identified by the stronghold(s) that is (are) apparent in our lives.  Our ability to endure in the times of adversity, calamity and devastation is dependent upon the strength of whatever is supporting us – and the guidelines that are already established in our minds. 

Proverbs 18:10 tells us that the NAME of the Lord is a strong tower.  So this is establishing that it doesn’t matter whatever oppositions may come my way – if I can attach a name to that “problem” – the NAME of the Lord will override that adverse situation.  Every tower in our lives has the ability to become subjected to the strongest tower – which should be the Lord.  For example– cancer is only a name; lack - only a name; poverty – only a name; it doesn’t matter what NAME something has been assigned.  If you can identify it by ITS name; then there is another NAME that will overpower, override and completely eradicate that situation.  Hallelujah!!! 

However, usually our problem is that we have “ungodly strongholds” established in our minds.  Therefore, we have conditioned ourselves to run into the lesser towers instead of the ultimate Strong Tower. Nahum 1:7 reminds us that the Lord is good and strong hold in the day of trouble.   So since He is a “strong hold” – we should establish Him as our “stronghold”. 

Now in reverse, Proverbs 12:12 states that the wicked desire the stronghold of evildoers (NIV).  (Note: there is a difference between the wicked and the unsaved; you can be saved and still have wicked ways!)

So, begin to recondition mind – prior to the onset of trouble.  Start by daily confessing – out loud - my mind is renewed! Confess that, “Lord, you are my strong tower and my stronghold”.  Then in the natural – you must call upon the Lord FIRST when problems or adverse conditions arise.  Instead of running to your phone, instead of texting someone, instead of running to: FB, Twitter, Instagram, or Periscope – Go to the Lord first!

It’s only when we learn to acknowledge Him FIRST in ALL of our ways that we can make the statement that He is the Lord of our lives…that He is our strong tower.  Then we will yield to His guidance and He will be able to direct our path and give us the peace that surpasses all understanding….. allowing us to be more than conquerors – REGARDLESS!

“Where does your security lie? Is God your refuge, your hiding place, your stronghold, your shepherd, your counselor, your friend, your redeemer, your Saviour, your guide? If He is, you don't need to search any further for security.”                                                   Elisabeth Elliot

You Are Someone’s Bridge

  “Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

Although you may not have viewed it from this perspective; but God has birthed within you the ability to be a bridge for someone else.  He has given to you the wisdom, compassion and the authority to safely transport someone from their current place to a new place in Him. 

In architecture, there are basically four different types of bridges (sources vary to the exact number; with some listing up to seven).  Nevertheless, all of them are responsible for transporting; and for being that reliable connection between two points.

The purpose of the bridge is to provide passage OVER a given situation.  Therefore it matters not the type, weight limitations, or composition of the bridge – its job is to transport OVER obstacles.

Therefore, because you are someone’s bridge; it is your responsibility to undergo routine, scheduled maintenance checks.  You can’t neglect your spiritual, as well as your physical overhauls.  You need to be effective and persevere  as you transport the weight of another to the Lord.  Consequently, you must always remain cognizant of the fact that EVERYTHING you are involved in; positive or negative; will affect your durability, your tenaciousness and your level of sensitivity.   God has already given to each of us the character qualities necessary for us to perform efficiently according to the type of bridge that He designed us to be.

Don’t permit the enemy to cloud your mind or to disillusion you!  YOU are someone’s bridge.  Although you may not have considered it - nor be aware of who that person(s) is(are); someone is watching you and is depending on you to lead them over their next obstacle in life.

Lastly, remember that the bridge offers hope.  A bridge makes the unspoken statement that – “this is not the end of your journey”.  A bridge proclaims that, “I am your ACCESS OVER the problem, difficulty, hindrance, obstruction or blockage”.

In some battles the Lord will tell us to stand and to fight.  Then, there are others where He instructs us to simply “take a bridge OVER” them!  In other words, speak to it and keep it moving!  It is in those instances when you; as a God ordained “bridge”….can be used of Him to assist someone over their troubled water … by reassuring them that His undying, unconditional love…. Still yet prevails.

 ^“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  Romans 8:37-39 NIV

Where is God?

“The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God……….”     Psalm 14:1

When we consider the word “heart” we can observe that it is composed of several smaller words.  To name a few we have: he, ear, art, and hear. 

1.     So that reminds me that there is an “ART” to way that God composed my heart.

2.      “HE” must always govern my “EAR” so that I will “HEAR” exactly what I should permit to enter my “HEART”.

So now … Where is God?  What place or position have I given to Him with regards to my heart?  What is flowing from my heart?  Do my actions imitate those which openly declare that there is no God?  Have I purposed in my heart to permit it to be governed by what I’ve heard from Him? 

Well,…. as I proceed throughout my day; my response to whatever I may encounter; will reflect the position of authority and obedience that God reserves within my heart.  I must daily ask myself, “Are my: attitude, disposition, reasonings, decisions, temperament, etc. controlled by a heart that may indicate to others “There is no God”?”

I must have an ear to hear the voice of the Lord so that I will have the ability to guard my

HEART.  Far too often we have permitted our own opinions or the opinions of those who we thought were leading us correctly, to clog our spiritual ears.  Therefore we have permitted our hearts to be governed by our own thoughts – and by what WE reasoned to be correct.  We’ve made foolish decisions; and usually repeated the some mistakes over and over.  

To advance to the position where I can operate from the plateau which is governed by the wisdom of God; I must hear and recognize His voice.  To hear His voice I must open the ears of my heart.  To recognize His voice I must know (understand) His Word and spend time in His presence. 

Again I ask the question, “Where is God”?  Prayerfully, at the end of each day; someone’s path that you’ve crossed will be able to say that they saw and/or sensed the presence of God flowing from within you. 

Why?...... Because you had an EAR to HEAR what HE was instructing you to do….And your actions have been motivated from a HEART which isn’t perfect yet ….. But …which is reflecting that ART of the perfected love of the Lord.

What Is F. A. I. T. H.?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I’m Still The Legal Heir

Read: II Samuel 4:4 & II Samuel 9

One of my favorite writings from the Bible is found in II Samuel 9.  This story is about a boy named Mephibosheth.  I don’t have the time to relay the entire story…. But, the bottom line is that Mephibosheth, who was the son of Jonathan, and the grandson of Saul was being carried by his nurse when he was quite young. One day Jonathan and Saul were both killed in the same day.  The city became in an uproar.   Mephibosheth’s caretaker was trying to protect him from any harm by removing him from the commotion.  So she began to run with him in her arms. However, while she was running; in her haste, she dropped him – and as a result, he became permanently crippled.   Longer story short…. He was therefore sent to live in a place called Lo Debar.   Years later, King David (who had bed the best friend of Jonathan) inquired if there was anyone still alive from the linage of Jonathan.  Mephibosheth’s name came up. King David sent for him; rescuing him from Lo Debar and brought him to live in the king’s palace.  (Please read the entire story again to obtain and to grasp a more in-depth understanding.)

So… Today we must remember that negative incidents from our past can’t prevent us from receiving what is rightfully ours!  There are certain blessings that we are privy to - simple because of whom we are.  Mephibosheth had no idea that he was going to be blessed.  As a matter of fact, when King David sent for him, he was fearful thinking the worst!  Simply because usually when a King sent for you it meant the worst.   However…Mephibosheth was a legal heir – and wasn’t even aware of that information.  He had no idea that the King’s summon for him was to relay some awesome news!

Therefore, I should NEVER forget that because of my spiritual linage, I am a legal heir to everything that my spiritual Father possesses!  Hallelujah!!!!   I am an heir of my father’s; and that makes me a joint heir with Christ (Romans 8:16).  I therefore, can expect to walk in the power and in the authority the Christ possessed; yet in a greater magnitude; producing a greater return (John 14:12).  Wealth and riches are in my house (Psalm 112:3); and the devourer is rebuked! (Malachi 3:11)

As a legal heir I must realize:

• ·       Who I am, whose I am and for what purpose I have been placed where I am.
• ·       I am called to live in this world; however my royal linage will not permit me to become comfortable in anything that doesn’t represent my regal status.
• ·       My every anticipated provision has already been accommodated for.
• ·       When God’s appointed time arrives: He is able to and will send someone from somewhere to come and rescue me from my “Lo Debar” … invite me to the King’s table… and reward me what is rightful mine.

…..Because I AM a legal heir…. I have at my disposal ALL that I truly need; all my needs ARE met.  I AM the head and not the tail…Above ALWAYS and NEVER beneath.  So it matters not the physical APPEARANCE of my current situations.  I AM the legal heir…. therefore, I decree that soon and very soon…today even…. the manifestation of who I really am will begin to become physically evident!  (Because it already exists in the realm of the Spirit!)

So...Because I am a legal heir…  I AM walking in my greatness, and Greatness is my portion – REGARDLESS!!!

Nobody Greater!!!

Lord, you are supreme in power & position.

“Elhoy Marom”

(The God of heights – Micah 6:6)

As this text is researched, we can observe that the word “height” here signifies supremacy of power and position.

So Lord, may I now align and place everything under the authority of who you are.  May I never exalt the power of my thoughts or actions above what your word demonstrates and declares.

I will no longer surrender to; and I forbid, any other power to rule or to reign in my life.  My acceptance of your sovereignty and my knowledge of your omnipotence validates who you are.  I  now request that those character qualities fully infiltrate my every thought.  May I renew my mind to the extent that I have reworded my vocabulary to release from my mouth, only the words that will reflect what your Word declares.

There is no other; nor has there ever been; nor will there ever be; any force; - visible or invisible, that is able to be in comparison with who you are.  Your attributes reveal that you are matchless. Therefore you are the monarch, the exalted one.  We could climb up to the highest mountain; even search the lowest valley….  And the supremacy of your power and authority would yet reveal that… There’s NOBODY GREATER THAN YOU!

May I continuous position my spirit to operate in submission only to your sovereign reign, your absolute authority and your ultimate guidance… For YOU ALONE ARE GREAT!

"You Are God Alone" (Marvin Sapp)
There's no question of Your greatness, no searching of Your power.
All the wonder of Your glory, to You forty years is but one hour.
Your knowledge is all encompassing, to Your wisdom there is no end;
For You alone are God, You are God alone.

Your mercy is everlasting; Your truth is here always.
You are He who was and is, and is to come.
Who is He that can number you day, You've flung the sun to burn in space,
And the night's moon powers light from day; You are God alone.

Now unto the King, eternal, immortal, invisible,
The only wise God, the only wise God;
You alone are God, For You are God alone.

Be all glory and honor, dominion, and power - forever and ever, amen.
For You alone are God, You are God alone!

The Undercurrents Have Shifted…. Have You?

“ All these are but the beginning of the birth pains”. Matthew 24:8

Read Matthew 24

One of the benchmarks that many theologians have used for decades as the verification of God’s “plum line” is nature.    We can no doubt attest to the fact that we are experiencing extreme atmospheric conditions.   While people may vary in their knowledge and their understanding of the Bible; no one can deny the alterations in the usual flow of nature which are now occurring. 

One of the major reasons why we were experiencing twenty degree temperature differences from one day to the next is that the undercurrents have shifted.   An undercurrent is a force just beneath the surface, which is flowing in a different direction from the surface current.  While undercurrents occur both in the air and in the water; today we will focus on the effects of those associated with the water.

In recent years, every summer is producing an above normal increase in the rate of water fatalities – especially those associated with shark attacks.   Many people are explaining that the conditions of the water are very deceiving.   There were more rip-tides. The currents which are not visible to the naked eye; and which therefore can’t be easily detected have changed.  People who usually swim in various creeks, lakes and oceans are drowning or being attacked – because the undercurrents have shifted.

So has this shifting occurred in the realm of the Spirit.  Nature is only revealing what has already occurred in the Spirit world.  In the realm of the Spirit, there has always been a subordinate current; flowing contrary to the major current.    However now, the undercurrent has shifted.  What was once detectable for the shore is no longer visible.

So it is in the realm of the Spirit.  The spirit of deception is running rapid!  Many of the enemy’s devices which in times past were clearly detectable – have become camouflaged.  Therefore, if we are going to be effective, we must venture from the “shore” and get into the water.   The shifting has occurred and its effects are evident in every arena; from the “White House to the Poor House”.     

While everything around you has shifted …The question now is… have you?  What measures have you taken to assure yourself that you will not be swept away and even drown in the swift moving undertow in the realm of the Spirit?  Have you increased your times of praying, studying, serving and giving?  Have you amended your “busy” schedule to include a God ordained – rather than God permitted agenda?  Aer you just “busy” or are you productive?

We, the body of Christ must be that support system for the world which will lead them to the saving and sustaining power of the Lord.  However, we must leave the “shore”…our comfort zones: and venture into the water….where the fish are… and the swift flowing undercurrents are prevailing.  We must be equipped with endtime strategies and the ability to implement them. 

The undercurrents have shifted –therefore we must modify and fortify the anchors of our minds; to assure our success and to make certain that we will not become the next victim … swept away … and caught off guard by an oncoming, rapidly approaching and swift moving current!

Yes, the undercurrents have shifted and have also shaken the very foundations of principles, administrations, and integrity.    I challenge you to begin today to seek the face of God as never before.  Permit the Holy Spirit to catapult your entire being to a dimension that will equip you with the necessary wisdom to prevail now and in the days ahead.  Preparation is a vital anchor needed to withstand the shifting of every undercurrent!

“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)

Giants DO Fall…..But That’s Only Phase One!

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”  Ephesians 6:12 ESV

Sometimes we get so excited when we have made an accomplishment that we forget to return to “tie up” the remaining loose ends. 

Nothing in life is unconquerable. Romans 8:37 reminds us of this.  God’s love for us assures us  of the fact that we are more than conquerors.  To be more than a conqueror means that I have the assurance, that there isn’t any circumstance which will arise, where I don’t have the power to be victorious.  To be more than a conqueror means that I have learned that every challenge is a challenge because I view it from that perspective.  So, without any reservation, I must always remember and know that I can’t be defeated… simply because every battle has already been won. Therefore, every giant WILL fall.

Now… usually the difficulty arises after we’ve stood in faith and caused our “giants” to fall.  After we’ve received major victories and breakthroughs; after we’ve been the recipient of accolades – now is when we must remember….that was only phase one.   In other words; after that giant of sickness has been slain and you’ve been healed; how do you maintain your healing?  After the giant of debt has been slain – how do you maintain your debt free status?  So, whatever your giant – after it has been slain – you must realize that the journey has just begun.  

How do we maintain our “giant free” status?  By establishing…. prior to its defeat, a strategy that will prevent that giant from re-gaining access in the future.  Make vital amendments to your thinking by altering the material that you’re reading, watching and listening to.  Establish a relationship where your accountability is governed by one who is spiritually mature – and who possess a keen sense of discernment.

Remember EVERY giant will fall…but when it falls… don’t become content and retire your weapons.  Remember…. their big brother is waiting for an opportunity of revenge!    

“Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.” Matthew 12:45

The Strategy to Navigate

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” Philippians 2:5

Although we may not be aware of it, but each new day presents an array of situations and circumstances which require us to “assess and conquer”.   Many times we are aware of specific challenges that will “grace” our day – therefore, we’ve had the time to adequately prepare for them. However, sometimes these demands will be unexpected and require that we make split-second decisions.  Nevertheless, in either case – God has equipped us with an ability to advance through each situation successfully.  We have within us; although far too often undeveloped; the ability and the skill to strategically navigate through this maze that we call life.

To maneuver successfully through our own “obstacle course” not only requires skill, but: patience, endurance and concentration. (You’ll see this trio again!)

I found an app for my phone which gives me the opportunity to engage in a game called labyrinth.  Many years ago, I had an actual labyrinth board.  This board is composed of numerous holes through which one must successfully guide a small metal ball.  It is not until you’ve completed level 1, that you are permitted to progress to the next level - each level increasing in difficulty.

Life can be compared to that small metal ball on the labyrinth board.  Life is an obstacle course through which we must carefully, patiently and skillfully be guided and directed.   It demands that we take a seat – physically and mentally to map out a plan that will successfully enable us  to navigate around all of the potholes that the enemy has waiting for us.  We can usually get a “heads up” on some of them by surveying our natural bloodline.  Then as you discover various inherited “potholes” –  whether in the natural or in the realm of the spirit; use your kingdom authority to completely eradicate them.  Declare that the buck stops here! Forbid the manifestation of anything that is not of the Holy Spirit to rest, rule or to reign in your life.    Remember…the enemy isn’t too smart!  However he is strategic and persistent.  Therefore, you must be strategic in your planning if you are going to outwit the enemy and navigate productively through your labyrinth board.

Lastly, but most importantly….as always…… we must consider our mindset … for it is our determining factor.  One of the most over overlooked, misunderstood….. but vital focuses in Christendom is the subject of mind renewal.  Yet, it is essential and the prerequisite to our success on every level.  The process of mind renewal must be taken more seriously if we are going to effectively outmaneuver our enemy.

I would like to encourage you to increase, strengthen and awaken your current mental status – in the natural!   One sure way to begin this process is by engaging in logic puzzles and memory games.   Challenge your mind to accomplish a task that you haven’t been able to achieve in the past.  By trying a variety of puzzles, you will awaken various areas of your brain.   Without regards to your age, begin NOW and refuse to permit the spirits of Alzheimer, Dementia and the like to occupy space in your mind….simply because some of your brain cells have become deaden due to the lack of proper activity or deterioration! 

To be victorious we must come to the realization that every successful battle is won when the proper strategy has been devised….. and the navigation process is formulated according to that strategy!   

We must remember that an active mind is a productive mind.  A productive mind now must become a disciplined mind. A disciplined mind is ready to begin the perpetual process of strategically navigating through your personally designed - endtime diabolical labyrinth board!

“Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”                                               Romans 12:2 - New Living Translation

Why The Clutter????

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

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

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

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

The only way to avoid clutter is to change your mindset!  Don’t be comfortable having anything in your possession that is not in use.  Those clothing that get transferred from closet to closet every season…..sow them to a shelter.  That exercise equipment that sits around starring at you…. Donate it.  Jewelry that you no longer wear….give it away.  Whatever reason you used to justify your clutter is no longer acceptable! 

Also learn to develop strategies that will afford you the opportunity to be more of a giver in both the spiritual and natural realms.  Become more organized!  As you begin to get rid of the clutter … and become more structured…..you will be amazed at how the Lord will begin to restore to you ALL that has been stolen!

“But all things should be done decently and in order.”  I Corinthians 14:40 (ESV)

Three Words That Will Ensure[CB1]  Your Advancement:

Encourage, Enlighten, Empowered

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus….” Philippians 2:5a

During my prayer time one morning, I heard these three words: ENCOURAGE, ENLIGHTEN, and EMPOWERED.   The Lord has said that in this season; if we can embrace the essence of these words…..  permitting their meanings to become as one anchor… we will obtain the ability to stand firmly in any situation and enter into an advanced dimension.

First, I must learn how to truly ENCOURAGE myself….as David did (I Samuel 30:6). Because of the rapid occurrence of events in the realm of the spirit and in the natural; unless we establish a pattern of daily renewing our minds with the Word of God; depression, oppression, confusion, distrust and the like will attempt to take residence within our minds.  Therefore, we must not allow our attentions to wander, nor our allegiance to the Lord to become altered.  We must maintain an attitude of gratefulness.  Remember to speak over yourself and encourage yourself …..REGARDLESS!

Next, we must daily seek to educate ourselves concerning some subject. Enlarge the territory of your mind! (I Chronicles 4:9 & 10).   Never let a day end without having learning something new.  Be determined that you will learn at least one new thing every day.  When we don’t actively use our minds, because of the inactivity of certain brain cells; we have opened the door to various psychological disorders.  To become ENLIGHTENED concerning any subject on a daily basis only requires one key element…. Discipline! 

Lastly, I must remember that I have already been EMPOWERED to accomplish EVERY task that I may encounter.   I must declare that I will triumph in every situation!  (II Corinthians 2:14). God has given to me the power and the authority to successfully triumph in every situation.  However… when I am uncertain concerning this decree; I will permit the enemy to make me think that he has the upper hand.  We have the power…we have already been empowered.  Therefore, we must stand in the midst of any and every situation……commanding it to come into an alignment with what the Lord has said.  Our dilemmas don’t surface because of a lack of power… we have already been empowered!   Our dilemmas overtake us simply because we lack to authoritatively handle those situations. The restraint on the manifestation of our power could very well be a result of: ungodly fear; a lack of wisdom; a lack of correct information or an improper application of the same.

Therefore, if I ENCOURAGE myself; become more ENLIGHTENED; and walk in the EMPOWERED state that the Lord has already given unto me…..I can’t be defeated!  When my mind has truly been renewed to this position…… and I used these words as my foundation…… then I have become that feared individual that the enemy’s camp so dreads!!!

“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.” Proverbs 4:7 (ESV)

The Lord Is Listening -But

There’s a Missing Voice!

“… let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.”  Hebrews 13:15

Have you ever been in a location and heard the voice of someone call your name?  Without even turning around – you knew exactly who it was.   It didn’t matter how many other people were there, when that familiar voice called out to you – you heard it….and you knew who it was.

Today God is saying there is a voice missing.  He is saying, “When I listen to the praises of my people..  there’s a voice missing.   When discussions are being held concerning the leading and guiding of spiritual and secular matters… there’s a voice missing.  At the beginning of each new day that I’ve given to you… when my other children are offering up a voice of thanksgiving…..  there’s a voice missing.  In the middle of the day, I’ve been waiting… but there’s still a voice missing.  Then at the end of the day; after I’ve taken you successfully through and carefully guided you around every “landmine” that the enemy had waiting to destroy you; I’ve listened…. But still there’s a voice missing.”

Is yours that missing voice?  Is your voice the very one that the Lord is longing to hear not only in a devotional time, but in; your home, your school, or on your job?  How about in the mall or at your favorite restaurant?   How about in your neighborhood? Have you been strategically positioned by God in various places because YOU have the voice that’s needed…. But still you refused to use your voice to bring His power, authority and Lordship into this realm?

The Lord needs us to verbally acknowledge Him more than we have in the past.  As we actually express to Him verbally throughout the day, our feelings of not only gratitude, but of love and adoration – then we will begin to notice that He will be able to more adequately direct and govern our day. 

Your voice, your spoken word, has the power to do exceedingly and abundantly more than you could ever imagine.  However, if you don’t release the sound of your voice into the atmosphere – it’s useless!  Death and life ARE in the power of YOUR tongue. 

Don’t permit the enemy to gain any more ground because your voice is that missing voice! God is waiting to hear YOUR voice….. and the enemy is hoping that you will remain silent!

Be Bold… Be Confident… Be Courageous…. and Be Heard!

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (ESV)

Did You Know That You Still Have

Untapped Potential?

“……. eye has not seen and ear has not heard and has not entered into the heart of man, [all that] God has prepared (made and keeps ready) for those who love Him [who hold Him in affectionate reverence, promptly obeying Him and gratefully recognizing the benefits He has bestowed]. Yet to us God has unveiled and revealed them by and through His Spirit, for the [Holy] Spirit searches diligently, exploring and examining everything, even sounding the profound and bottomless things of God [the divine counsels and things hidden and beyond man’s scrutiny]. ”                                 I Corinthians 2:9 & 10 (Amplified Version)

Have you ever searched franticly for something only to discover that is was in the first place that you looked?   Much to your dismay and frustration - the item had been in the place where you had left it – just sitting there waiting to be discovered.  Or maybe in your search to find something, you may have even covered it up while searching for it, making it even more undiscoverable.  Then, when you finally stopped, and settled down – you found with ease all that as previously not seen?                 

Studies have revealed that while 100% of our brain is functioning; most people don’t use the entire 100% to its fullest capacity.  So in the natural…….so in the realm of the spirit.  God has, before the foundation of the world, placed on the inside of you everything that is needed for you to excel in this world.  As he told the prophet Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb of your mother I know you, and set you apart to be a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:5)

 Are you looking for something which God has already placed on the inside of you?  God has given to us the potential and the ability to excel in every area of life.  We have at our disposal access to the governing forces of this world!  We have at our disposal the ability to voice a command and to bring into alignment everything that is out of order!  God has given to us the advantage of being an heir and a joint heir with His Son! (Romans 8:16-18)  Have you really ever grasped the essence and significance of that statement?  That means that whatever Christ did – I have the permission to do likewise. I even get to further advance and operate with a greater magnitude than He! (John 14:12)

 However, many times, because we haven’t fully understood this perception – we go through life functioning and operating from a position of inferiority instead of superiority!  We aren’t aware of whom we are …. more less, of whose we really are.  And what’s even worst, we have no clue of the potential within us that’s lying dormant.  Your physical characteristics and achievements (nor the lack of them!) can’t alter the fact that you still have lying within you untapped potential. 

It has been often stated that the cemetery is the richest place that there is. Why? Because millions of people die and take with them unspoken wisdom, undiscovered inventions, unwritten books,… and a plethora of unexposed and untapped potential!  For whatever the reason, people have passed on, and they have never made a significant withdrawal from their internal bank! 

Whenever we become aware of something – it then becomes our responsibility to make the necessary amendments.  Therefore – from this point forward, you will be held accountable for your diligent actions concerning the discovery of your untapped potential.

Remember – roots run deep.  Whenever we see a plant… it is anchored by the root system.  We can’t see the roots from the surface (normally).   Nevertheless, they are present and hidden deep within the dirt!   Therefore, in comparison; whatever you can see of yourself, is only a representation of what is on the inside of you.  Without regards to what you’ve already accomplished – there is still untapped potential within you! God has made you and He is the only one who truly knows your full potential.  Ask Him to reveal to you your areas of untapped potential.  Then seek Him for the wisdom to gain access to, and to activate those areas.  Time is running out – but you still have time to get the ball rolling!

Be determined that you won’t allow the enemy to use this strategic maneuver (untapped potential) any longer to in your life.  Be bold and very courageous! (Joshua 1:9)

The best is truly yet to come… and YOU play a vital role in your advancement!

LEADERS! Be Authentic!

Don’t Be An Imposter!

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

St. Matthew 5:13

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

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

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

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

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

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

                                                          NO MORE IMPOSTERS!!!!!

H.O.P.E

“And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.”  Psalm 39:7

I must always remember that:   God is committed; (via His promises) - TO me. 

He has made a covenant - WITH me.

His love has provided a covering - FOR me.

Therefore when I understand the word HOPE – I can affirm that I Am:

   Holding on – Optimistically Pressing….Expecting!

To further explain:

H – Holding on

I’m Affixing ….(with the tenacity and the grip of a mad bulldog); my every desire, concern and request to the alignment of God’s word.

      “Therefore be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord”

                 I Corinthians 15:58

O - Optimistically

I’m remaining confident.  I’m refusing to permit fear, doubt and unbelief to intervene.  I’m not speaking any negative words… nor permitting anyone else to clutter my space with the same.

“And this is the confidence that we have in Him….” I John 5:14

P - Pressing

I’m pursuing; pushing through and against every obstacle that is attempting to cause me to disbelieve the promises of God.

“And we pull down reasonings and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and we take all minds prisoner to the obedience of The Messiah.”  2 Corinthians 10:5

  E – Expecting

         I’m awaiting; believing; and in excited anticipation of something that I haven’t seen the      

         manifestation of – yet.

          “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair”.

                  2 Corinthians 4:8

So, it doesn’t matter how the circumstances may appear; nor the opinions of others nor the evidence which is stacked against me……

      “I am Holding on, Optimistically, Pressing…Expecting” God to bring into manifest the benefits of every seed that I’ve sown; which is ready to be harvested.  

     “I am Holding on, Optimistically, Pressing…Expecting” to see a change in the lives of my unsaved and uncommitted loved ones - in response to the prayers that have been prayed on their behalf.

“I am Holding on, Optimistically, Pressing…Expecting” God to use me in a fashion that I have not previously known. 

Lastly, “I am Holding on, Optimistically, Pressing…Expecting” God to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that I could ever ask, think, or imagine……and to do it through His power that is at work within me!

 And HOPE maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.  Romans 5:5

What Are You Attracting?

“And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” John 12:32

I recently heard about a young man who has implanted a small magnet into his finger.  He states that this implant gives him the ability to feel electrical currents that are undetectable to the naked eye but ever present. He is very brilliant and attributes his ability to obtain superior knowledge to the energy which is produced from this implanted magnet.

Of course, my mind immediately began to compare his implant with the “implant” that we who are believers in Christ have.  The more I heard about the details and effects of those magnetic implants that many people are getting – the more I began to relate them to OUR Spiritual “implant”.

Since you, as a believer, have the Holy Spirit living and abiding – “implanted” within you – what are you permitting His power that dwells within you to attract?  Think about it for a minute.  Unlike the magnet’s power which is uncontrollable – we are in complete control of our implant’s ability to effectively function. 

Are you permitting the power of the Holy Ghost to attract to you those who could really benefit from your experiences and your love for Him?  Are you attracting those who can assist you and increase you in some fashion; instead of decreasing or attempting to diminish who you are?  Also, have you attracted the attention of the enemy?  Does he regret when you arrive on a scene and stand in wonder of what you are permitting the power of the Holy Ghost in you to do against his kingdom?

The question is not if, but what.  We are all attracting something.  However, we must make certain that we are allowing our “ magnetic energies”  to be governed and directed by the Word of God.

Colossians 3:16a tells us to let the word of God dwell richly within us.  When we apply this notion we will be certain that we are attracting only what will be beneficial to the kingdom of God….as well as to bring destruction to every diabolical plot, plan and scheme.

Some of the synonyms for the word attract are: appeal, fascinate, draw, invite, to catch the attention of, exert a pull on and to be the magnet for. 

So again I ask the question, “What are you attracting”?  Consider those in your inner circle, those with whom you fellowship, your business and personal relationships.  What are you attracting?  The power of the Holy Ghost that dwells within us have made available to us an inexhaustible 

magnetic current.  This current has given to us the ability to have the identical effectiveness that Christ had! (With an even greater magnitude!) I challenge you to permit your magnetism to be directed solely by the power of the Holy Ghost. 

It’s time that we make our realizations more personal.  I need to remember that in this season God needs to use ME as never before.  Therefore, I must begin to focus more on what I am attracting to make certain that what I am attracting is permitting me to be a total asset to the Kingdom of God. 

I’m reminded of the lyrics of an old hymn entitled, “Lift Him Up”.  If we lift up Jesus, then the magnetic power of the Holy Ghost that’s within us, will be used to draw people unto the Father!

Lift Him Up

(Johnson Oatman, Jr., 1903)

1. How to reach the masses, men of every birth, For an answer, Jesus gave the key:
   “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, Will draw all men unto Me.”
   • Refrain:  Lift Him up, lift Him up;
                     Still He speaks from eternity: “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth,
                     Will draw all men unto Me.”
2. Oh! the world is hungry for the Living Bread, Lift the Savior up for them to see;
   Trust Him, and do not doubt the words that He said, “I’ll draw all men unto Me.”
3. Don’t exalt the preacher, don’t exalt the pew, Preach the Gospel simple, full, and free;
   Prove Him and you will find that promise is true, “I’ll draw all men unto Me.”
4. Lift Him up by living as a Christian ought, Let the world in you the Savior see;
   Then men will gladly follow Him Who once taught, “I’ll draw all men unto Me.”

           I wonder “WHO” will help me lift Jesus??????  (Does anyone remember this part!!!)

Did Your Midwife Kill Your Baby?

Watch Your Midwives!

          “Now also we beseech you, brethren, get to know those who labor among you….”

 I Thessalonians 5:12

Warriors, because you stand against the kingdom of darkness, you must at all times know those to whom you have given the power and the authority to assist you in the various stages of your birthing processes.  Simply because our Father is the supreme originator of creativity; we His children should allow the creative nature within us to birth forth into some sort of new manifestation on a regular basis.  Far too often we have witty inventions and new ideas however we permit the opinions of others to kill them before they are manifested.  In other words, we have permitted a midwife from the kingdom of darkness to kill our babies!  The role of a midwife is an extremely vital position. This person has the ability to give life or to cause death, to enhance or to diminish, to encourage and bring hope; or to cause confusion and bring total despair, to your future.

In the book of Exodus, chapter one we are given an account of the creditability of the midwives. The Bible states that the midwives feared God! In the dimension that we have now embarked; as an endtime warrior, you must exercise extreme caution in the acceptance of one who desires to serve you in the role of a midwife. (The role of a midwife is not gender sensitive.) You must only permit those who have the ability to understand the true reverential fear of God, to be entrusted with the safeguarding of your vision. Some of you have had the OPPORTUNITY to excel to various heights and positions…. but have not done so. You haven't made these accomplishments, because your midwife has slaughtered your dreams and visions. Just at the point when you were in the proper position to give birth, at just the time when the midwife was supposed to assist you into bringing your vision, dream etc. into total manifestation - because your midwife was not assigned to you by God, you gave birth,- but your midwives were used by the enemy to intervene.  Your midwife killed your new born dreams or visions.  Your midwife was on an assignment – with diabolical intent …. and was used by the enemy to introduce the spirit of fear  - which caused you to walk in doubt and unbelief.

Therefore, some of you will now have to adjust and amend the positions of those to whom you thought you could trust. It is imperative that you always seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit before enlisting the eager assistance of those desiring to assist you in ministry.

Remember - a warrior is a warrior at all times. Why? Briefly, the strategic mindset of a warrior is always focused, and purpose driven.  A true warrior will never permit their mind to stray from their divine call and destiny!  A true warrior knows no defeat.  A true warrior has learned to triumph in EVERY situation. 

Therefore, as warriors, we must always bear in mind that the enemy is ever attempting to gain access to us. We are most vulnerable when we are embarking upon a new venture. This is why we must be ever so selective when accepting one into our confidence….as they respond to our need for a midwife!

A true spiritual midwife will have developed the maturity to ascend in worship and to descend strategic purpose; to proactively travail in prayer and have a keen spirit of discernment. Above all, they will have learned to daily walk in the reverential fear and wisdom of Almighty God.   

“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”  Matthew7:15

Invisible Scars…. Our Victory Banners

^“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”                 II Corinthians 1:3&4

When we usually refer to scars, our minds tend to envision some type of mark on the surface of our skin which has resulted from an injury.  Scars can also occur as the result of: surgical procedures, burns, acne and from some diseases (like chickenpox).  Whatever initiated the problem, the fact still remains that there was an abnormal break in or trauma to the skin; which then healed improperly, and now a scar has been produced.

We all bear scars.  However, some of the scars that we have “earned” can’t be seen.   There are those which have resulted from injuries which have occurred to and affected our hearts and our minds.  Invisible scars.  When we have scars on our skin, we can see them and then we can understand, why we react the way that we do to certain stimuli or in certain situations.  However, when we have invisible scars; in many instances, we aren’t even aware of the fact that they exist!

Scars are constant reminders of yesterday.   Yet, if I can’t “see” the scars, (and I don’t know how to spiritually discern and analyze them) I may not understand my reactions in certain situations.

No one can bear a scar from an incident that has not yet transpired. Therefore, my scars are those connectors to my past, which reveal areas where the skin was once sensitive and pain once occurred.  Some scars are permanent.  Yet, when the skin under the scar has healed – there is no more pain in that area.  Although the scar may remain – the pain is gone.

So it must be with our invisible scars.  Many incidents may have left permanent scars on our minds and in our hearts.  However, we must allow the Holy Spirit to bring healing to our total being – body, mind and spirit.  We can no longer allow our past hurts, failures, disappoints, etc. to remain “open sores” in our lives.  We may not have any control over the healing process that occurs in and on our skin.  However, we do have the ability to advance or delay the healing process of our inner being.

Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you any areas where your invisible scars haven’t completely healed and remain to be like an “oozing wound”.  

Invisible scars, once healed can and should be used as victory banners to wave to others – proclaiming the faithfulness of the Lord.  They will also be reminders to us of God’s power to bring healing to those areas which at one time only yielded total despair and devastation.  Scars may remain – but just as our physical scars are no longer sensitive nor emit pain; our inner man must receive a total healing.  Scars will form… but the pain MUST subside….and vanish!

“All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.”  II Corinthians 1:3-5 (The Message Bible)

…..God has Spoken – So Let the Church Say AMEN!

 God is not a man that He should tell or act a lie, neither the son of man, that He should feel repentance or compunction [for what He has promised]. Has He said and shall He not do it? Or has He spoken and shall He not make it good?                                       Numbers 23:19 (AMP)

Today the Lord is simply saying that when we say “Amen”, we are voluntarily confirming that we will stand firmly on what we believe has already been proclaimed by Him.  Therefore, whenever I say “AMEN”, I am affirming that I will stand as follows.

Anchored on what I know, and I will never deviate from my principles – although methodologies, and strategies may need to be amended from time to time – my principles must remain ANCHORED.

      Motivated by the assurance of Whose  I am – and daily affirming the same. Saying –I am the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19); I am delivered from the power of darkness and translated into God’s kingdom of Light. (Colossians 1:13); I am redeemed from the curse of the law of sin and death. (1 Peter 1:18-19, Galatians 3:13), etc. 

      Equipped mentally to endure and to use every available weapon that is at my disposal. (II Corinthians 10:4&5)

      Never succumbing, submitting, or yielding to the spirits of defeat, discouragement and the like …… which are ever present and always attacking me. (II Corinthians 4:8)

So, Yes! Because God has already spoken ….now let us; who are the Church;

Collectively say …..while Individually affirming :

I am Anchored by WHAT I Know,

I am Motivated by the assurance of WHOSE I am,

I am Equipped mentally to withstand and to recognize the diabolical attacks which are constantly hurled in my direction …. And to use my spiritual weapons.

I will NEVER yield to the enemy’s temptations ….because my mind will remain submitted to and under the protection of the Holy Spirit!

……. “God has spoken……  So Let The Church Say…. AMEN!”