Basking & Marinating…but in What?

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” Joshua 1:8 (ESV)

Preparation is always a vital instrument.  Our ability to successfully outwit the adversary is to sensor the type of “marinating” that our spirit man is being exposed to.  Today, as never before, it is essential that we are ever cautious and remain on our guard concerning the types of material that we are constantly permitting to enter through our ear and eye gates.  Far too often we are permitting our spirits to be marinated with; and to become saturated with the concepts of this world – without our knowledge! However, if we maintain the proper relationship with the Lord, He will always alert us to the ploys of the enemy.

Don’t permit your spirit to become desensitized to what God has established as our foundational principles and guidelines.  With the advancements in technology, we have the ability to have God inspired materials at our disposal as often as we desire. Therefore, it is our responsibility to “choose” what we will permit our spirits to bask, soak… marinate in.  

Here is a prime example.  I very, very rarely watch television programs – with the exception of the news.  However, I can recall an incident which occurred.  I had watched the News and a program had come on immediately after the News that caught my attention.  I think that it was some type of detective story. About a minute into the program; the Lord said, “You can’t watch this”.  So I instantly turned it off.  Some time later, when I asked Him why, He said that the program had the potential to introduce the spirit of fear and deceit into my spirit.  He also said that if I had permitted my spirit to marinate in such for just an hour – I would have availed myself to every negative concept from the program.  Now… would I have gone to hell for watching the program?  Absolutely not.  However, like Sampson, upon my next encounter with the enemy; I might not have had the necessary wisdom, power and authority to successfully outwit and discern his various diabolical maneuvers. 

Warriors!  If we are going to stay at least a step or two ahead of our adversary – we must be on our alert at all times.  Everything that is a “good” thing may not be a “God” thing! 

We of our own accord can’t possibly be aware of every current device that the enemy will use in an attempt to bring defeat and or demise to our plan of action.  Nevertheless, when we begin to marinate in the presence of the Lord, we will have the ability to maintain a consciousness of Him – that will always alert us to every potentially adverse situation.

Yes… preparation is vital.  Remember, marinating is a preparatory process.  Any cook will attest to the fact that marinating is an essential preliminary process when cooking.  When food is permitted to marinate in a given substance it will absorb the characteristics of that substance.  Therefore, even after the food is removed; the effects of the marinate will be experienced.  Marinating in the Word and presence of God is a “current” procedure, whose results will assure us of our future success.

So, the problem is not “if” we are marinating, resting, relaxing and basking…. But “what” are we using as the material, our substance and our source?  I would like to challenge you to monitor and physically write down for one day everything that you are permitting your spirit man to be influenced by hour by hour.  What are you really marinating in?   At the end of the day – your results will reveal the source from which your spirit man is really absorbing!

“I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” Psalm 119:15 ESV

You Have The Power……

So Just Change It

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue,”. Proverbs 18:21a

There were two television shows that aired many, many years ago which each featured a woman who possessed “mystical” powers.  The programs were entitled: Bewitched and I Dream of Jeannie.  In both of these series, the women’s powers were only known to certain people.  In the program Bewitched, the lady named Samantha; was supposed to be a good witch (oxymoron!!); who was a homemaker. She used her powers in the times of distress or of grave importance.  The other program featured a little genie that lived in a capped bottle which had been found by her master who was an astronaut.  What these two women had in common is that whenever they encountered a situation that was not to their liking – they would just change it.  Samantha would simply twitch her nose; Jeannie would blink her eyes; and whatever they wanted to be altered – would immediately change!

Although these were mere television programs; they depicted of a truth the power and the authority that we as children of the most high God have at our disposal.  Whenever we encounter a situation that is not in accord with what God has decreed it to be; we should not grumble or complain about it… we should simply - just change it.  God has given to us the power and the authority to bring into divine alignment everything that is in disarray (Luke 10:9).

However, far too often we will: entertain fear instead of faith (II Timothy 1:7); become a coward instead of being courageous (Joshua 1:7); or respond to a reaction - instead of proactively thinking ahead.  We, in too many instances, become discouraged when we don’t see (with our physical eyes) immediate results and then begin sabotage our own efforts with our words (II Corinthians 5:7)!

When does a change occur? Does it occur when I see the manifestation of the change? Well....that answer is twofold.  Change occurs in the realm of the spirit as soon as I command it to be so!  The scripture states that “Death and life ARE….not will be….but ARE – Present tense!  Therefore, I can possess the ability to see it before I see it!  I once heard someone say several years ago; that if you can’t see a thing before you see it – when it appears, you won’t recognize it.  So just because I don’t physically see a change; doesn’t negate the fact that change has occurred and is in the process of being manifested.

As you progress throughout your day today, be determined that you will no longer just “accept” or ignore whatever you encounter that is not in accord with God’s plans and purposes.  Your power lies not in a twitch of your nose; nor in the blinking of your eyes.  Your power lies within your mouth (Proverbs 18:21).  You have the power to alter ANY situation!  So don’t grumble, don’t complain …. You’re in control.  So open your mouth and…..just change it. 

Raise Your Level of Expectation…

And Become Completely Synchronized

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

Simply because we are quickly approaching the end of time as we now know it; it is imperative that our “clocks” are in alignment with God’s agenda for this season…. And that we increase our level of expectation.  Now is the time to become excited, eager and enthusiastic about what the Lord is doing!  God has already released in the realm of the Spirit an outpouring of the endtime wealth.  However, if you are not synchronized to His time schedule – you will not be in the correct place, nor in the correct position to begin to be a recipient.

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

To be completely synchronized I must:

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

So get excited!  Launch out into the deep waters in your mind and in your expectations, your dreams, and in your desires.   Ephesians 3:20 reminds us that God can do far more that we can even imagine or thing!  The sky is not the limit; for there is no limit where Jesus is Lord!  So increase the borders and the previously established perimeters of your mind and your anticipations!

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

God WILL manifest all that He has promised…but I must be completely synchronized to His orchestrated moves!  He has given unto you a blank check…… What’s your next move????

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

Don’t Get Shocked….

Go With the Flow!

“See, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? …. “Isaiah 43:19 NIV

Don’t fight the change! Saints….especially those of you who are actively serving in Leadership; it is imperative that  you become more characteristic to the flow of electricity.  An electrical current will flow down the path of least resistance. Therefore, we must emulate the same and become more yielding to the Holy Spirit; adhering to the new path – without resistance …. That He is now directing us to follow.

I’m sure that most of you have noticed the recent atmospheric occurrences which have transpired.  These are only symbolic to and mirroring the fact that there has been a major shifting in the realm of the Spirit.  We ARE in a new place.   We are therefore experiencing and sensing the “newness” all around us.  We must remember that change is attempting to materialize in all things and in everything which concerns us.  The Lord is saying, “Don’t fight the change….just go with the flow!”.

Many times we will gladly welcome change - in some areas, but resist it in others. However, in this season…. “Don’t fight the change…. Go with the flow”. 

Ok…. let’s refocus our minds back to thinking about electricity.  Why do people get shocked?  One of the reasons is that they interfere with, intercept, and attempt to block the flow of the electrical current.  Therefore, if there is a certain electrical current or force field; and you cause a break in it …BAM!!…. you will receive a shock!

The Lord has permitted the release of a new flow; a different type of flow.  Saints, stay in the flow!  Avoid getting shocked!

Years ago, there were occurrences when we would to listen to a radio station or television broadcast and we would hear a sound that we called static.  This sound was produced because something had interfered with the natural flow of the sound waves or the current.  The sound of the static was not the problem.  The sound of the static was the indication that there was a problem.  The problem was that something had caused a stillness; an interference; or a break in the flow of the current.  In other words, the sound waves were still transmitting; however the static was relaying to us that there has been an disturbance in the flow.  The static was indicating that something is resisting, fighting against and interfering with the natural flow.   The static was communicating that something needed to be altered.

Saints, (especially Leaders), don’t become the cause of static in your ministry.  Don’t fight the change.  Go with the flow of the Holy Ghost.  Our increase in every area of our lives can only be received when we are pliable enough to go with the flow and not become our own hindrance; adhering to self-sabotage!

Don’t wait for the lack of sound … or the sound of static…… to occur.   Flow along the path of least resistance in the realm of the Spirit.  This flow will not be familiar to your natural man or mindset; but within your spirit. you will receive an affirmative confirmation that it is from the Lord. This flow will require major adjustments.  However, your successfulness as an endtime warrior is dependent upon your ability to swiftly adapt and adjust to the new flow.

When uncertain of which path to choose – enter into a season of consecration to receive specific instructions.  Remember, go with the flow of the Holy Spirit – whether it be upstream or across stream!  Just as in the natural – when we go against the proper current or the flow….we will receive an indication that we’ve interrupted the flow.  That indication is referred to as a “shock”.  There may be times when the Lord will need to send you a “spiritual shock” to bring you to a state of alertness if you are not adhering to His flow! 

Let’s listen to the Lord. 

Let’s avoid interrupting or causing an interference in what the Lord is now permitting to transpire. 

Let’s get on the move…. and go with the current…... to prevent getting shocked.   

Finally, let’s just go with the flow and be guided by the all-seeing eye of the Lord!

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.”   Psalm 32:8

Think Outside of the Box…

Because The Details Matter

In the beginning, God CREATED….. Genesis 1:1

The Lord, our God, is a God of who is greatly concerned about the details.  Details reveal and enhance the complexity of a substance.  The details also reveal the complexity of the creator of that substance.  In other words, they also shed a light on the in-depthness or the simplicity of the mind of the creator   Therefore, the more detailed a: thought, concept, production or object – the more it displays the intricacy of the mind of the one who has produced it.

We must always remember that every attack that we encounter is directed towards our minds.  So, because every attack is aimed at the mind; we must continually guard our minds.  Out minds must be protected from whatever or whomever may attempt to: disable, disallow, demolish, discourage, stomp out, cage in, cancel and bring to nought…. our God given gift of creativity. 

Why do people perish without a vision?  One of the reasons is because the manifestation of their vision is the end result of what their minds have had an ability to create.  When we lose or don’t develop a vision; we are not permitting our minds to reproduce.  Our minds lose the ability to function as that of our Father God; that master creator!  We fail to use those components of our DNA that are identical (in composition but not in magnitude) to His.

Why are demonic influences really directed towards our minds?  In addition to the obvious; we can’t rule out the notion that demonic influences also attempt to override our creativity.  For an example, if the enemy can cause someone to think that they have no victory in a given situation – then they will never hear the voice of the Holy Spirit when He attempts to show them how to CREATE a way of escape! 

God has created man with a free will.  However, the enemy wants to override God’s plan, and to control our minds.  Witchcraft is simply a demonic influence that attempts to do what God himself won’t do….. And that is to suppress our creativity and to control our minds by domination, manipulation and humiliation!

Therefore, every detail does matter…..Simply because every detail reveals another dimension of the complexity of our awesome God!

So dare to be different! Permit your spirit to be liberated and available to produce what God has given unto you to reveal for this season.  Age is not a criteria – God still desires to use your mind to create devices and avenues for such a time as this. Then we will have the ability to use them to manifest the exposure of endtime: strategies, inventions, solutions etc.. God is waiting to catapult your level of creativity to a dimension that you have not previously known. However… He needs you to be more creative  -  and to think “outside of the box”.   

Trust God….every detail does matter.  Above all…every “unexpressed” detail, may be that missing link needed, to successfully reign as an endtime warrior!

“Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous--how well I know it.”  Psalm 139:14 (NLT)

There’s Been A Shipwreck….

                                                 Just Hold On To Your Broken Pieces

 “But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.”   Acts 27:43 & 44       (Read the entire chapter for better insight)

There are times when, as Paul, we are always embarking upon some type of voyage or challenge where our “ship” becomes totally destroyed.   However we must remember one concept: There will always be fragments to gather.  So in the midst of your worst devastation – Hold on to your broken pieces!   If you hold on….and don’t quit……. And don’t become discouraged…You will be victorious.

We must also remember that Psalm 34:19 tells us that many are the afflictions of the righteous – BUT the Lord WILL deliver us out of them all. Afflictions refer to something that causes pain or suffering; whether physical or mental.   Paul was afflicted on numerous occasions – but he managed to flee safely every time because he kept his focus, and learned to hold on to his broken pieces.  As he stated in II Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;……”.

I’m reminded of an old school song that said, “I’m so glad, trouble don’t’ last always”.   So as I await God’s divine intervention….. I must remember that God is able to do just what he said he would do, He's gonna fulfill every promise to me.  I can’t give up on God, cause he won't give up on me….He’s Able!!!!

Therefore…..I’ll hold to God’s unchanging hand,…… and Build My Hopes On Things Eternal….. and continue Standing on the Promises of Christ my king…..  and Look Ever to Jesus; He Will Carry Me Through! (I just love those hymns!)

So, no matter how devastating or destructive the storm; there will always be broken pieces.  I MUST maintain or regain my focus.   I MUST search out those broken pieces.  I MUST value my broken pieces.  I MUST remain cognizant of the fact that I  can never, never let go of my broken pieces – for it is those broken pieces that will glide me safely to the shore!

Heavy Weights Build Strong Muscles

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; Romans 5:3

In earlier years we used to sing a song entitled, “Jacob’s Ladder”.  It was one of those songs which had a seemingly endless amount of verses.  Each verse would end with the statement, “Soldiers of the Cross”.  At that time, I didn’t fully understand the concepts that were attempting to be expressed and impressed upon us. 

Today we have saints who fail to realize that they are “soldiers of the cross”. As a soldier, I must understand the fact that God has orchestrated every test, trial and difficult situation, for no other reason than to build my spiritual muscles.

Far too often we have only obtained the ability to successfully lift a ten pound weight in the realm of the spirit.  Then, we seem amazed when we are confronted with a situation requiring the ability to lift fifty pounds and we are unsuccessful – often blaming God for our inabilities and fallacies.  Sadly to say, I constantly observe Saints who are enduring very rigorous physical exercises and toning every physical muscles – however their spiritual muscles are flabby, weak and are in deplorable condition!  Physical exercise is extremely important – however we must exert MORE into the development and the conditioning of our spiritual muscles than those of our physical bodies.

So how do we begin to build up our spiritual muscles? 

1.     Trusting in our own relationship with the Lord.  As a babe in Christ, it was tolerable for us to always run and whine to other Saints with our problems and difficult situations.  However, when will you begin to trust and validate your own relationship with the Lord?  When will you begin to lift those heavy weights in the realm of the Spirit and really believe who and whose you are?  When will you believe what YOU say to the extent that you will KNOW because of your relationship with the Lord that whatever you’ve asked…. it’s done!?  When will you begin to build those muscles of faith and realize that God has given to YOU power? ....That for real….you don’t NEED anyone to “touch and agree”, you don’t need to constantly address what the enemy is doing….etc.  Nothing in err about doing these things – however they are not assisting you as you move up the ladder.  I can attest to the fact that in extremely difficult situations, I’ve sought the Lord; trusted in Him and Him alone – without sharing the information with anyone else…. and He has NEVER failed me. Sure, at the onset, my faith hadn’t matured to this level…. it was a process that had to begin at some point.  It’s symbolic of asking your earthly father for something.  Once you’ve asked him, would you go and ask someone else to accommodate you?  ….Only if your doubted him or felt as though he was incapable of producing your request.    So it is with our Heavenly father.  We must learn to trust Him with the assurance that He WILL grant our request – because we are joints heir with His Son; and because of our own relationship with Him. Of course thoughts will come and attempt to weaken your faith.  However we must be determine to lift those heavy weights – if we are going to have those strong muscles. 

 (Now if you feel as though your walk isn’t strong enough yet for you to stand alone or your faith hasn’t progressed to this level yet; by all means seek for and request the assistance of others who are stronger than you are.  However, we must be determined not to be “co-dependent” upon anyone…other than the Holy Spirit!)

Yes, we are climbing a Spiritual ladder where every round gets higher and higher.  The song asked the question, “Do you think you’ll make a good soldier?”

As we lift the heavy weights in the realm of the Spirit, we will build those strong muscles which will enable us to effectively, successfully and strategically stand as an endtime soldier.  Then we will have merited the ability to respond with the concluding verses of the song by responding, “Yes I know I’ll make a good soldier”.  Then and only then will we be able to totally, with a full assurance, sing and live the final verse “Rise, Shine, and to Give God the Glory”!

Not Again!!!

YES! .... Your Test Will Be Given…. AGAIN!

“The Season & The Time”

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:”

                                                                                                                     Ecclesiastics 3:1 

We are all aware of the fact that everything in nature is governed by at least two elements; one of those being “its season”.  However, what is of a graver importance is the “TIMING” within the season.  Far too often our focus has only been directed towards our season; while ignoring the fact that “our timing” is just as relevant.

Solomon (the accredited) author of the book of Ecclesiastics; and the wisest man that the world has ever known, specifically focused on both…. the season and the time.   He said that everything has a season and within that season – there is a designated time when its purpose will be revealed, manifested and fulfilled.

In many instances, simply because we haven’t advanced at the correct time – we have not accomplished our expected results.  Therefore, some of us have continued to enter into “our season” over, and over again; and we know that we haven’t received all that God has in store for us!

So, your test will be given AGAIN!  The retest!  Have you noticed that there is one situation or circumstance that continues to occur in your life… year after year?  Different day…. Different month…. Different people involved….. but the same basic situation?  That’s because God is testing you …. AGAIN! You keep failing the test…. So our patient God is simply giving you the “makeup exam”!   God… as always…. is giving you an opportunity to pass the test.   As I often say; God doesn’t have a “No child left behind policy”!  He will permit us to continue to experience the same situation … for a lifetime if necessary …until we accomplish the results that He is requiring of us.  He is always scheduling and aligning situations and circumstances in some of the areas of our lives that we have previously encountered - unsuccessfully.  Our “make-up” test will require that we focus more on our “timing”.   So as you operate in this season – don’t omit the necessity to align your timing …. And to incorporate it into the equation. 

YES! It is our season….however we must make certain that we are walking choreographically aligned and synchronized to God’s timetable…within this season…. to prevent failing the test again… and having to be retested….AGAIN!

“There’s an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything on the earth…”    Ecclesiastics 3:1 (AMP)

Too Full To Receive…..

Only Empty Vessels Receive!

“Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants.  Don’t drink too much wine. That cheapens your life. Drink the Spirit of God, huge draughts of him. Sing hymns instead of drinking songs! Sing songs from your heart to Christ. Sing praises over everything, any excuse for a song to God the Father in the name of our Master, Jesus Christ.”  Ephesians 5:17-20 (The Message Bible)

It is only when we have been emptied – that we can be filled – full.  Any given container has a limit on the amount of a substance that it can keep in check.  Therefore, when a container has reached its maximum limit……that’s it.  It can’t hold another drop.  For example; you can attempt to pour a gallon of liquid into an already filled gallon sized bottle – and it will not be able to receive it.  Why? Because the first bottle is already “filled full”. Therefore, even though the substance in the second bottle may be of a superior quality – because the first bottle is already full; it can’t receive the better product.

God is saying that we are expecting Him to fill us with all of who He is – but He can’t; because there’s no room.  Our minds are still filled with the concepts and percepts of the world; when He has instructed us to empty them and renew them. (Romans 12:1&2)

He has told us to empty ourselves of the cares of this world (I Peter 5:7); but we are still filled with worry, doubt and unbelief.

He has instructed us to be not like the Pharisees and Scribes – hypocrites (Matthew 6:5); but we are still filled with pride, boastings and egotism.

He has warned us not to be filled with vengeance – because it belongs to Him (Romans 12:19).  Yet we are not emptied of backbiting; we’re still holding grudges and harboring unforgiveness.

We must remember:

Ø  Only empty vessels can be filled.

Ø  Only empty vessels have the ability to totally receive all that is being poured into them. 

Ø  Only empty vessels will have the capability to contain the proper amount of wisdom needed to successfully up root the diabolical plans and plots of the enemy.

Ø  Only empty vessels have received the revelation that they must stay on the potter’s wheel and daily cleanse themselves with the Word of God – if they are going to remain emptied of the concepts and ideologies of this world.

Ø  Only empty vessels are those who were once yielded; but are now broken, freed and ready to have the anointing of God to empower them with His Presence, His Integrity and His Kingdom Authority.

So, if we are to be used totally of God…for God – then it is time for us to empty out ourselves and get rid of whatever is not relevant for this season in our lives.  Remember yesterday’s treasures just might be today’s useless clutter!

…….. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:…” Ecclesiastes 3:1

You Still Have One More Move..

Therefore - It’s Never Too Late!

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

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

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

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

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

Failure is not an Option…..

It’s Not On the Menu

“According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world,…..” Ephesians 1:4

Every master chef knows the importance of having a well organized menu. The purpose of the menu is to inform everyone exactly what they can expect to receive from that particular establishment.  Therefore when one glances at the menu they can determine the type of facility, the expertise of the chief, as well as the clientele who frequent that place of business.  We also understand that we can’t order an item that is not listed on the menu – and then become upset if that item is either not available or not prepared to our liking.  The master chef will only order the essential ingredients which are required to properly prepare those items which are listed on the menu.  Now an experienced chef will on occasion, use some of the ingredients which were purchased for one item and prepare something that is not listed on the menu.  However, this is not always possible.  For example; you can’t become distraught if a fast food restaurant doesn’t fulfill your request for a fresh seafood order.  Why? It isn’t on their menu.

So it is with our lives.  God who is our Master Chef has a well-planned menu for lives.  As the scripture text states; even before the foundation of the world – God had already written the menu for each and every one of our lives.  Therefore He knows which ingredients to include in our lives that will permit us to produce the highest quality of life.  He knows a forehand which circumstances, experiences, trials and the like to include on our menus of life.  He also knows: because He is God, the decisions that we will make in every given situation. However, because we already have a well-planned menu, when we make contrary choices in our lives; God has the ability to use those choices to still yet perfect His plan for our lives (Romans 8:28).  He’ll take our burnt bread; scrap off the overly browned portions; cut it onto squares and use it for crotons!  He’s the Master Chef and therefore knows exactly how to perfect everything in our lives…..if we permit Him to!

Therefore, when you feel as though you are on the verge on becoming overwhelmed and going out of your mind – just declare that a nervous breakdown can’t occur… Why?.. Because Failure is Not an Option….it’s not on my menu! Declare Isaiah 26:3 & St. John 16:33!

When you feel as though you “can’t” – just decree that Failure is not an Option…It’s on my menu. Declare Philippians 4:13!

When you feel as though everything is just taking too long to materialize – just remember that the best sauces must simmer for hours; and endurance IS on your menu! Decree Isaiah 40:41or Psalm 27:14!

When you feel as though the bottom has fallen out of your world and every stable foundation has been shaken – just relax… God may be testing you or just trying to get your attention so that He can elevate you to the next course of your menu! Decree 2 Timothy 2:3-5!

Learn to rest in the Lord and in what He is doing at this stage of your life.  We must remember that God had not “mass produced” us.  Therefore, we aren’t to compare our menu items with anyone else’s.  Although they may appear to be similar on the surface – because we are all uniquely made.… so are our menus.  We aren’t to be compared to the “chain” stores which all possess the same exact menus.  Yes, we are all God’s kids – but we are all so different!.... He planned it that way!

So it doesn’t matter how your circumstances may currently appear to you – simply remember that God is only attempting to get you to advance from the soup on your menu to the dessert. He has the entire menu of your life in mind.  You can’t simply produce the “soup” from your menu of life... forever!  It’s now time to advance to the appetizer and then endure every challenge of life.  God is only attempting to get you to the end of your menu…. Where your mind will be totally focused... and you will have the ability to enjoy the dessert course of life ….without regards to your current circumstances! View every item on YOUR menu as an opportunity to prove to the world that as for me..”Failure is not an option; because It’s Not On MY Menu!”

“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:”   I Corinthians 1:6

Let’s Compare…..

The Centipede & The Christian

Read: I Corinthians 12:12-26

How you ever considered a centipede?  Probably not. However the Lord had instructed me to do a little research on them.  After which, He instructed me to prepare a comparison between the similarities of the centipede and the endtime Saints.  (Set aside some time to do the same.  I’m sure that it will prove to be very advantageous to your ministry or your Christian walk.)

As we speak, the enemy is devising a fast-approaching army that will secrete a very painful poisonous venom, like that which can be ejected from the centipede.  Unlike the scorpion, but like the centipede. (Compare the two.)  This venom is secreted from the first set of legs on the centipede.  In our ministries, far too often our “front legs” have no venom.  Our front line of defense is composed of those who are novice, and unprepared to stand effectively against the blows of the enemy.  We can no longer afford to voluntarily give the adversary an entrance and an access to us simply because we have not established our perimeter with those who are “seasoned” enough and wise enough to be able to effectively ward off his attacks.

Next, each section of the centipede’s body is equipped with a set of 2 legs. (Side bar: Didn’t Christ send out His disciples in groups of 2?)  Some have less than 20 legs; while others have more than 300.  Nevertheless, the centipede’s body glides smoothly because each set of legs carries its own weight!  

We must …. and we must equip others to carry their own weight by effectively using their God given talents and abilities.   No longer should we assign people to positions where they are not called - just for the sake of filling a position.  We also, must equip ourselves to become more reliant upon the Holy Ghost and not on other people to carry us.   Those of you who are not assuming leadership positions – yet – should not permit someone to place you into a given position that you KNOW you are not called to. .., Just for the sake of possessing a title!  Not an endtime strategy!

Lastly, each set of legs on the centipede is made a little short than the set in front of it.  This depicts order.  Many of our churches are not making an effective impact because they have not been established according to the apostolic order that God mandated for His church.   (I’m not referring to the Apostolic Denomination.)

Centipedes are primarily hunters.  Once it has found its prey; it will usually wrap itself around the prey, inject it with venom and wait for the venom to take effect before consuming it. 

We have been instructed to go into the hedges and the highways looking for the unsaved.  When we have found them – then we as the body of Christ are to wrap ourselves around them and to show them the  powerful “venom” of the love of God “that is able to cover” them.

Much more can be said about the centipede and the body of Christ.  However, I’ll conclude by saying….

Remember:  Just as there are over 8,000 species of the centipede; we being many members, are just one species - one body.  Our ultimate goal should be to stand, and demonstration to the world, that whatever the attack, we as the body of Christ will remain unified ….

 Because the Lord has already prepared us…the body of Christ… to be His Triumphant Church.

Did You Keep Your Word…. Or Did You Lie Again???

“Are You Still Committed?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Allow Your Riches to Replace His Richest!

 “The Eye of the Needle”

“And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.”         Matthew 19:24, Mark 10:25, Luke 18:25

One reference source explains the “eye of the needle” as a secondary gate which was used at night when the primary entrance had already been sealed for the evening.  This gate was much smaller in height and width than the main gate.  The only way that a camel could enter would be to get down on its knees, be stripped of all of its baggage and guided carefully though.

In our text, the Lord isn’t condemning anyone for being rich; however the warning is being given to all who have excelled in obtaining material gain.  Be your riches in the areas of: finances, education, prestige, or in any other area; whatever you have acquired in excessive must not replace your love and allegiance to the Lord.  Far too often, when someone begins to “move up the ladder” their level of dedication, integrity, and loyalty to the Lord gradually begins to diminish. 

We have read for years that the wealth of the wicked is laid up for the just.  We have also heard about the great release of finances that is on the onset for those who have been faithful.

As you continue to receive your endtime release, it is imperative that you increase your devotion and admiration to and for the Lord. 

Don’t lose your focus.  One of the concepts concerning the eye of the needle that is relevant for today is this: we must be willing to be stripped of everything for the cause of Christ.  We must not become so attached to anything - that we will not release it at a command from the Lord.  We must never consider ourselves too “important” to get down on our hands, knees and faces in the presence of the Lord (Give no place to the spirit of pride!).

The eye of the needle can also be symbolic to entering into the holy of holies in the realm of the spirit.  We must be stripped of everything prior to the Lord granting us permission to enter. Many people are saved; however not everyone who is saved will be given access to the “holy of holies” in the realm of the spirit.   To gain access requires one to value their relationship with the Lord to the degree that they are willing to surrender any and everything, for and to Him. 

Again I reiterate: Don’t Lose Your Focus!  The tables have begun to turn and the imminent release to the true Saints is no longer pending – it’s here!  However, if we are going to retain all that we receive, we must maintain our relationship with the Lord; and increase in our devotion to Him.  Our hearts must remain pliable to the leading of the Holy Spirit.  When we totally surrender our hearts – then whatever is in our hands will automatically follow though us.  We must never forget that we are always blessed to be a blessing   Never neglect the opportunity to be a sower.  You have precious seed that must be released.

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Don’t be compared to the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-26).   Daily remind yourself that you must be able and willing to forsake it all for the cause of Christ. 

I challenge you in this season to become more alert in the realm of the spirit.  Fine tune your ear to hear the quiet -yet thunderous voice of the Holy Spirit.  Above all…. remain disciplined enough to pass through the eye of the needle…. And Don’t Your Riches to Replace His RICHEST!!!!

Prepared for WAR!

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

Power To Press Beyond                           

(Written by Apostle Claudia Boatwright ©2003)

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

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

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

Since you have told me that the best is in the press, I will press into you at any cost.   I will press beyond the feelings of defeat, frustration, adversity and opposition. I will press beyond the spirits of despair, dejection and rejection.  I have learned that I must press beyond any of the feelings in my flesh, and rely only what my spirit discerns for you. Then and then only will I maintain this realization that in my press, YOU will never deny me. 

So forgetting those things which are behind, I press.

Growing and still maturing in the process, I press.

Awaiting your divine intervention……..

I press, I press, I PRESS!!!

The Door is Open.. ACCESS GRANTED!!

"I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me.” Revelation 3:8

Today the Lord is saying that because of your faithfulness to Him as you weathered every adverse condition; because of your diligence and perseverance to seek His face more than you sought His hand; because you planted your feet firmly in His Word REGARDLESS; because you refused to permit what you have observed with your natural eye to allow you to loose your focus…..  NOW.. A new door has been opened unto you!  You have been granted access to regain everything that the enemy has stolen, taken, or swindled from you!

Imagine the rain clouds. When they receive an excess amount of moisture – they BURST FORTH and we receive rain.  So it is at this time.  You have released in the realm of the spirit the necessary “rain”… your spiritual clouds can no longer contain any more of:  your fastings, your praying, your unselfish giving, your interceding, your waring in the spirit; your level of tenacity and endurance.  It is now time for your spiritual clouds to burst forth!

Therefore, every necessary door that was previously closed….is opened!

Everything that was previously unavailable…..  is now available!

It is extremely important that you stay focused, and remain faithful.  Don’t become distracted by the sudden influx.  Seek the face of God for the wisdom that is necessary to function properly as you embrace all that is speedily becoming available to you.  Remember… Kingdom work must continue!

Lastly, the Lord is saying that the door has been opened, your access has been granted; however, don’t become a harbor…..you must continue to be a channel!  God is getting it to you…..to get it THROUGH you!  Don’t become a hoarder – or the flow will cease!

"……'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. …… Matthew 25:23

Keep YOUR Fire Ablaze

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”  James 1:22

If you can remember some of the lessons from your chemistry class, one of the first lessons was probably on the composition of fire.  As a reminder, three elements are required to cause the chemical reaction to occur that we call fire. They are: oxygen, fuel and heat.  If one of these components is missing…. there will be no fire.

Fire likes to spread, and when it touches ANYTHING it will attempt to engulf it.  Fire will test whatever is in its path to measure the tangibility of its composure. If a fire is going to continue to burn and increase in intensely – it must maintain its fuel supply.

What about your inward fire?  Sometimes, our spiritual fires have been ignited, but if we haven’t provided the adequate fuel line to feed our fires….. they burn themselves out. Are you snuffing out your flame?  Is your flame struggling to stay lit?  Has the sin of: disobedience, worry, ignorance or impatience caused there to be a break or a leak in your fuel line…and now the flame of your fire is just flickering instead of blazing? 

When we have the fire of the Holy Ghost burning on the inside, He will; because of the complexity of His nature, possess the ability to perform a multi-faceted purpose. He will protect and defend; be an offensive as well as a defensive barrier and enable us with the ability to live a productive life. He will spread and ignite everything that is within us; and conform it to His likeness….if we permit Him to do so. 

We must be determined to keep our fire blazing. The Holy Spirit will assist us – but we must do our part.   To maintain our spiritual fire, we must also supply Him with the three required substances. It is mandatory that we have: the oxygen (our submitted will); the fuel (supplying a proper spiritual diet) and the heat (continual line of communication with the Father).

Therefore, In the midst of every “happening”………. Keep Your Fire Ablaze!

Whether the conditions are positive or negative……..Keep Your Fire Ablaze!

Whether your environment is pleasurable or disagreeable ……Keep Your Fire Ablaze!

Whatever mindset you have encountered…………….Keep Your Fire Ablaze!

Remember… You are a WARRIOR!!! And a warrior knows NO defeat!

Therefore, I challenge you to …..at any cost, be determined that you will....

             Keep Your Fire Ablaze!!!

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”  I Corinthians 15:5

Ungodly Fear Steals Our Time

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

 II Timothy 1:7

One of the most valuable tools that we as warriors have at our disposal is time. Strategies and strategic maneuvers are only effective when implemented at their correct timing. On more occasions than we realize, ungodly fear is the underlying culprit for both our delays and our hasty decisions.

In this season, we must stay alert in the realm of the spirit so that we can first recognize this spirit of fear and then uproot it. We must not become distracted with “important – unimportant” issues. A sharpened discernment is required if we are going to be effective against this current move of the enemy on our family members, our young people, our friends…. and everyone that we are concerned about.  Our list of priorities must be initiated by the Holy Spirit and governed by His wisdom. 

As the end of time as we now know it rapidly approaches, we must understand that various demonic spirits will mask themselves as never before.  For example, we must recognize that the reason that many of our young people are dishonoring their bodies with the various markings and piercings is because they battling with the spirit of rejection which is of course rooted in “fear”.  They are looking for a sense of “belonging”; and they fear not being accepted.

Therefore, we must be able to discern these and other end-time moves of the enemy.   However, this type of discernment is only released in us as we completely surrender our minds unto the Lord.  It is imperative that our minds be elevated and be totally renewed from every residue that is yet attempting to linger and cause a breach or break in our stability.  We must learn to operate in a spirit of total and instant obedience to the voice of the Lord. This type of obedience is produced by love and discipline – not fear; and is vital.   This type of obedience also produces in us a sense of “readiness” which prepares us to be more “pro” active… instead of “re” active!

I also hear the Lord saying that now it is of the utmost importance that seasoned warriors maintain an alertness in their spirits that can only be produced by a disciplined ear - disciplined to hear my voice and obey my commands- even when I don't speak!

So value your time and your timing.  Your adversary will attempt to cause you waste time in the realm of the spirit by placing “emergency” situations in your presence. These will attempt to alarm you to the point that you will lose your focus; thus opening the doorway for the spirit of fear to re-enter.  Warriors! You must know that you are only to respond to any situation, as you are led by the spirit of the Lord - especially when a "crisis" arises. The Lord is saying that we must remember although events may startle us and surprise us; He has already known about them before the foundation of this world! So don't waste time by becoming entangled with “last minute” situations and circumstances.   Stay so connected to the Lord that you will recognize the warning signs that He gives to you prior to the onset of tragedies, crisis and the like.   Many of these are only coming to you as a distraction in an attempt to cause you to momentary divert your attention - thus causing you to miss your strategically planned timing.

I often think about the numerous “unspoken” examples that I learned from my Grandmother as I grew up.  She was a prayer warrior and I can still in my mind hear her praying.   Nothing surprised my Grandmother to the extent that she would lose her composure.  No matter what news she received, or circumstance arose – her respond was always; “Look to the Lord, cause He is still in control…He ain’t gonna put no more on you that you can bear,”  We must be so in-tuned with the Lord that His peace governs our minds…and our response is the same as hers was.

Learn to recognize ungodly fear.  Locate its access.  Then aggressively advance to eradicate it; to seal its entrance; and to replace that spirit with the power and the authority of God.  

As always, stay focused and refuse to be victimized.  Don’t waste valuable time by permitting any invasion of ungodly fear.

“… After all, we don’t want to unwittingly give Satan an opening for yet more mischief - we’re not oblivious to his sly ways!”             II Corinthians 2:11 (The Message Bible)

It’s Already Done…Just Receive It!

“Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you.”   Luke 10:19 (AMP)

Are you waiting for God to “give” to you something that He has already made available for you to receive?  I’ve recently been hearing quite a few people expressing that they are waiting for God to “move” in a given situation…. waiting for God to heal them; waiting for God to deliver… and the list could go on.

We must come to the realization that in most circumstances, we are waiting for God to do something that He has already made the provision for.   Usually, because we don’t have the proper knowledge (my people perish for lack of knowledge!  Hosea 4:6); we don’t know that we only have to RECEIVE the provision that has already been made available to us.  We have to also remember that our words have the power to change any situation (death and life ARE in the power of MY tongue.  Proverbs 18:21).

Here’s an example.  One Sunday morning when I awoke, my eye was swollen, red, feeling scratchy and inflamed.  Now, when I looked at it, I could have said, “I have conjunctivitis (pink eye)”.  However, I said, “Lord, I receive your healing for my eye in the name of Jesus.”  As I washed it with warm salt water; I further said, “Now Lord as I do this in the natural, I expect you to apply your “Super” to my “Natural” so that this eye can RECEIVE total healing. The entire process maybe took 5 or 10 minutes.  My eye still appeared to be unchanged.  However, because I am walking by FAITH and not by SIGHT… the natural appearance of my eye didn’t matter.  Then I proceeded to get ready for church.  Well, before I went to church, my eye had RECEIVED the healing most of the swelling and redness was gone.  By the time a arrived at church, my eye was back to normal! 

Now, I didn’t ask God to heal my eye.  I didn’t wait to “see” what was going to happen.  Why? Because He has already told me that He has given ME power over all sickness and disease.  God will never do something that He has given us the power to do.  So, I had to do my part – which was to stand on the Word of God.  Not to beg and plead with Him to do something.    Usually our problem isn’t that we don’t have the power.  Our dilemma is that we don’t know how to properly apply the power that has been given to us.   Far too often we are synonymous to a starving person, who sits beside a refrigerator which is full of cooked food; and is praying day after day for the Lord to fill their hungry stomach; and telling the Lord that they are hungry!  

Healing…. For EVERY aspect of my being; spiritual, emotional, financial, etc.; has already been made available.  If I truly believe that Jesus bore all of my sicknesses and diseases (Isaiah 53:5) – then why would I have to ask God to do something that has already occurred? 

Daily, our level of faith must be increased.  We must begin to believe that our God is who He proclaims to be. The reason why it is imperative that we study the names of God is so that our minds can grasp a physical concept of who God is in the realm of the Spirit.  Therefore, as we learn to continually renew our minds; then our thoughts will change; and then the words that we release from our mouths will change.   We will learn how to phrase our words so that we will release our statements from a positive rather than negative platform.   So, instead of saying, “I don’t have that much faith”,… you would say something like, “My level of faith needs to be increased and is increasing”.  Instead of saying, “I feel sick”…. Something like, “I feel like I need to apply some healing” would be said.

I challenge you to begin to curtail the words which you release from your mouth into the realm of the spirit.

Remember……the Word of God does work…. I must learn how to WORK the WORD!

…..Because, It’s Already Done.. I just have to Receive the manifestation!!!!

“….Lord I believe…Help thou my unbelief.”  Mark 9:24

From Fetters to Freedom

Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, And a two-edged sword in their hand, To execute vengeance on the nations, And punishment on the peoples, To bind their kings with chains, And their nobles with fetters of iron,           

                                                                                                                                                                  Psalm 149;6-8

Simply because we are privy to a dimension where the abundance of the Lord is ever present and manifesting itself in our lives; we must amend our ways to be assured that we will retain all that is being given back to us.   One of the strategies to be implemented is for us to be released from our fetters… and to walk in freedom.

There is a hymn entitled, “Jesus Breaks Every Fetter” that I remember from my childhood.  Even though that song is rarely sang anymore; its implication hasn’t loss it validity.  When we bring to mind thoughts concerning the word “fetter”, we can correlate them to various obstacles that the enemy attaches to us to delay our progress in the Lord.   Whether they be: areas of sin or weaknesses in the flesh; the phenomena of life; or circumstances totally beyond our control; - a fetter is anything that is tied to me which prevents, restricts or hinders my mobility and/or my advancement. 

There are those things; some of which WE have permitted or instituted.  Others could have been inherited or the consequences of circumstances which were beyond our control.  Nevertheless, these obstacles still continue: to shackle, bond, chain and yoke themselves to us.  Therefore our effectiveness in the realm of the spirit is none productive.  Many times we are attempting to assist others in a deepen walk with the Lord, yet we have not been freed ourselves of our many “fetters”……  However, as the hymn said…. Jesus still breaks EVERY fetter.

What are some of the evidences that our fetters have been broken?  

¨ When Jesus has broken every iron fetter, my concern is to increase my relationship with the Lord - just because of who he is - not because of what he can do. 

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, I will realize that as I increase in my love walk and in every other walk in my life - so will those with whom I am connected.  (The proof IS in the pudding!  Leaders.. We cannot any longer expect others to walk in a level of excellency, devotion and integrity  that we are not committed to!) 

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, my appetites are disciplined and my motives pure.

¨ When Jesus has broken every iron fetter, the manifestation of the enemy’s work won’t frighten me, his maneuvers don’t surprise me and his schemes can’t outwit me.

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, I won’t just sing, “It is Well With My Soul”, but my life will exemplify and verify so.  (By your fruit shall you be known!)

¨ When Jesus has broken every fetter, the peace of God WILL rule my mind,  I WILL walk above EVERY circumstance in this life, and I WILL remain focused on and committed to the plans and purposes  that the Lord has assigned to me.

Therefore to obtain the freedom which will permit the peace of God to continually infiltrate our lives; surpassing all understanding;…. every fetter and its suppressing power must be broken!  

So ….its once again dependent upon the status of my mind! Once my mind has been liberated from its fetters – I will have the ability to be…and to maintain total freedom in every area of my life.  Then and only then will I have at my disposal the matured level of wisdom to advance from Fetters to Freedom.

"He whom the Son sets free is free indeed!" John 8:36