Profanity in the Pulpit

I was asked the question by a few of my FBF (Facebook friends) if it was okay to use profanity in the pulpit.  They said many Pastors are seemingly going that route now; and it appears to be acceptable.

Well… I always attempt to use the Bible to substantiate any response that I may offer.  So the verse that immediately came to mind was Ephesians 4:29.  In this verse the word corrupt was translated from the Greek word “σαπρός” (sapros).  Profanity could definitely come in alignment with the definition of this word.

The Amplified Version states this verse as thus: “Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God’s favor) to those who hear it.”  Ephesians 4:29

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I also thought about the amount of prestige or reverence…. (Or should I say the lack of reverence) that we now place upon the presence of the Most High God!  Many standards that we now permit in our churches would not be tolerated by our judicial system, presidential cabinet nor permitted by the Judges in their courtrooms!    Therefore, should we permit the incorporation and the infiltration of such words and phrases to be accepted when we are standing as representatives of the Almighty God?  Should we release with ease into the atmosphere the negative effects and word curses which accompany some profane words?  Have we forgotten that when we stand before the people, we do so as the very orator for such a deity as Our God?    

We must never forget that we are in this world – but we as representatives of God do not have to partake of the measures expressed by the world in an attempt to convey God’s message.  We are in this world – but we must not conform to this world (Romans 12: 1&2).  We must always uphold the level of integrity and self-control that will permit us to never stray from “our ancient land mark”.  (Proverbs 22:28 “Don’t stealthily move back the boundary lines staked out long ago by your ancestors.” - The Message Bible)

God has said:

“Experiences are meant to produce maturity.  Your Relationship with Me produces Sensitivity.  Discipline produces Obedience.

My leaders must become more equipped and establish an ear to hear my voice if they are going to win, to triumph and to spoil the strategic plans of the enemy in these last days.  Lowering one’s standards to conform to what is pleasing to the flesh will never be as effective as standing on and trusting in the pure authority of My Word.  When My leaders spend time….the proper time in My presence – they will have a more influential presence of My Spirit.  Then they will be able to rely on My Spirit within them…. To flow from them…. to attract the people instead of using words that only excite the flesh.”

God has spoken; and it is so…. nothing else needs to be said!

Priority Number One

As we focus daily on our God given assignments and obligations, we must be certain that we don’t lose sight of our ultimate goal.   Therefore it doesn’t matter what our giftings or callings are, nor our area of “expertise”; we all have been given an assignment that greatly outweighs everything else. Far too often, we become so involved in doing the work of the Lord; that we permit the call to distract us from “THE CALL”. In other words we become so engulfed with doing the work of the Lord that we lose sight on our ultimate goal.  We must always remain cognizant of our number one priority.  Its relevancy hasn’t been altered.   Today the need and the demands are even greater now than ever before.   What should be the major underlying focus of every Christian? It should be the ability to be an effective, influential, innovative, skillful Soul Winner!

On a regular basis we must inventory our spiritual data base and do a little housekeeping.  It is necessary that we replace antiquated methods with those whose application will make an impact on the unsaved.  We can’t forget to seek the face of the Lord for His guidance and direction to obtain the strategies that will be effective.  We can’t forget that we should ALWAYS be advocates for the Kingdom of God. We can’t forget that everything we’ve endured has qualified us; and given us vital evidence to substantiate God’s love.  We can’t forget that there are still those people who…. if they heard some of our victories – would be drawn to the Lord.  Be transparent when the Lord directs you to be so.  Remember…..For the believer - Soul Winning is priority number one…..Always!!

So, value the importance of one lost soul.   Make an appointment with God to discuss the enhancement of your soul winning tactics.  Seek him for the boldness, wisdom and opportunity to be an effective witness – wherever and whenever the occasion occurs.  Simply because God has delayed His return – He is giving US one more day to assist in the enlargement of His family. 

Your number one priority is to be an effective Soul Winner.  However, today’s soul winners must be Spirit lead; Spirit filled and above all be Spiritually motivated!

“…… he that winneth souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30

But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand.  Ezekiel 33:6

Read slowly and thoroughly; digest inner ear of your spirit.

Prayer Recognizing God’s Wisdom ©2003

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

Your word declares that Wisdom is the principle thing - “The foremost ingredient”.  So I come to seek your WISDOM above all else.  With your wisdom, I will accomplish every task to the perfected level that pleases you.

Your wisdom demands that I alter and amend every thought, every motive, every dream - every issue of life and bring them subject to your divine will.  Your wisdom demands integrity to the utmost in every area from the most minute to the most extravagant.

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

Your wisdom orchestrates the tenacity, the endurance, the discipline, the assertiveness, the guidance and the forbearance required by me to discern and uproot every satanic and demonic weapon formed against me.  Therefore as your word declares, these weapons formed will not be able to accomplish nor produce the tasks that were assigned to them.

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

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

Lastly Father, I thank you that I have received an in-depth understanding regarding your wisdom.  I can now certainly acknowledge the fact that wisdom is the principle thing.  I will now strive as never before to bring every thought, word and deed captive to your obedience… and in so doing, I will be privy to that degree of wisdom, which will permit me to operate from the platform of your Kingdom Principles. With your wisdom guiding me, I now know that I can be of a greater threat to the kingdom of darkness – because the greater one is definitely abiding within me and daily alerting me to every diabolical trap that has been set for me. 

Hallelujah!  Nothing shall be impossible for me to accomplish because I am covered…. Safe and secured  with a blanket of your WISDOM!  …..And it is so!                        

What about the Christmas Tree?

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.”

Proverbs 3:5 ESV

Many have asked me to address this subject and “I” never really felt the necessity to do so.  However it appears that every year more and more people are being misled and not researching the scriptures for themselves.

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

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

Let’s not permit the enemy to allow us to become distracted by causing our focus to drift.  Christ must be the focal point of EVERYTHING that we engage in.   Colossians 3:17 states it this way: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all to the glory of God.”

Our Christian religion is composed of various symbols. The Evergreen Tree which is used as a Christmas Tree should be viewed as just another symbol that can be used at this time of the year for the believer.

Therefore as for me, whatever I bring into my home will be used to bring glory and honor to the Most High God.  I won’t worship the tree; but I will permit the tree to stand as a visible reminder of the everlasting, ever-abiding presence of the Holy Spirit… whose power has birthed and illuminated an unquenchable flow of love, joy and peace!

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

No More Fear …..Just Faith!

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

In what area of your life fear has become your favorite pillow, your warm comforter or your pair of fuzzy slippers?  Or maybe your escape from fear leads you to binges of over or under eating, excessive spending sprees, or becoming involved in behavior patterns that are totally ungodly. 

The spirit of fear is always looking for opportunities to enter, dominate and paralyze us.  Usually, when the time arises for us to embark upon and advance into a new place in the Lord, he (the spirit of fear) – will faithfully grace our stage for a grand performance!  In other words that spirit of fear will always seek to gain an entrance into our spirit man – and play a major role in preventing us from moving forward in the Lord. 

However it’s time for us to “take the bull by the horns” and aggressively pursue our next adventure in the Lord.  Remember, walking in faith isn’t always walking in the absence of fear.  There will be times when you will have to move forward while “feeling” afraid….  But you must continue to advance.  If your level of faith is going to increase, you can’t stand still and wait until you don’t feel afraid. 

Fear Be Gone!

 ather God in the name of Jesus, I denounce the spirit of fear in my life.  As of this day, I forbid the spirit of fear to dominate, reign or to sit passively in any area of my life.

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

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

Father, as I have asked the Holy Spirit to reveal the entrances where ungodly fear has entered, I ask you for the wisdom needed to close every open door; and a renewed mind, which will permit me to stand and enforce the decrees which I have made concerning the spirit of fear.   Therefore, I reintegrate; every closed door WILL remain closed, shut, sealed - never to be opened again.

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

Joy Produces Strength!

Read Psalm 43 and Nehemiah 8

 “……...This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”                                                             

                                                                                                                                 Nehemiah 8:10

Today, Lord may I begin to comprehend that you ARE my joy.   May I realize that my mind must be renewed to the concept, that my ability to remain joyful (full of joy) in the midst of adversity, is one of the battles that must be won.  Consequently, Lord I will totally understand that you and you alone are the nucleus of my joy.  Everything that is necessary for my “JOY” has its basis, its focus and its core emanating from you Lord.

Therefore today I invite you, Holy Spirit to infiltrate my mind, and to release me from every thought pattern that is not God ordained ……. thus permitting me to remain joyful throughout this day.  I decree that I will not allow any circumstance that may arise today cause me to lose my focus.  May I always remain cognizant that joy is not an emotion –but a mindset.

So I thank you now, for your guidance, your direction and the provision of your “joy” - that will be required for this day.  May the joy that you bring empower me and offer to me the foundation which is vital concerning my ability to stand strong today and always.  May I not be a partaker nor the recipient of anything that will allow my mind to wander….. Thus causing ME to surrender my joyous state.  Because I am in control of my thoughts – I choose to focus on only what will bring: joy, peace and happiness.  May I KNOW that because I do have the JOY of the Holy Ghost – no demonic force has the power nor the authority to steal it.

May I never forget that my happiness will ALWAYS be short lived and temporal; simply because it is based upon the things which are “HAPPENING” around me ….. and they are ever-changing. However my joy is seated in my spirit and released through my mind…. And is eternal…..If  “I”  permit it to be so.  Since JOY is a part of the fruit of the Spirit; its charter qualities are eternal.  Therefore the manifestation of joy in my life is a CHOICE that I can determine.

May I continue to reflect on the strength and encouragement of our patriots who walked by faith as they sang:

 “This joy that I have, the world didn’t give it and the world can’t take it away.” 

Joy produces a Mindset of Strength,

Strength produces a Mindset of Power,

Power produces a Mindset of Victory!

So….Keep your mind focused….. and Walk in VICTORY!!!!!!

No More “Cubic Zirconia” Gems

“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made” ….. Psalm 139:14

God has not designed, nor produced anything that is not authentic.  However, far too often we in the body of Christ have been “hoodwinked” into thinking that we must pattern, copy and mimic the actions of others.  We fail to realize that God has created each of us uniquely different.  It is His desire that we examine the life of Christ in every aspect; and configure our lives according to the example that He has displayed and not the lives of one another.

I am reminded of the time when I was looking through one of my copies of Vogue magazine.  One thing that was very prevalent was this- each designer displayed their own unique style.  Their creativity was boldly exhibited as they dared to be different.  Not one of the designers attempted to copy or to mirror the ideas or handiwork of their fellow artists.  Something else that was very obvious was the fact that it didn’t matter who did or didn’t appreciate, applaud or accept their creations – they still dared to be that original designer; and they used their creative ability to the fullest.

We must remember that God has not created any cubic zirconia gems!  What is a cubic zirconia gem?

• It is an imposter, an imitator and an impressionist in the realm of the spirit.
•  It is one who pretends to be something that they are not. 
• It is one who thinks that they must walk, talk, shout, preach, etc. - exactly like someone else. 
• It is one who has failed to realize that God has created them to be an original designer for Him – and not the carbon copy of another.
•  It is one who has permitted the enemy to convince them to participate in actions of “self – sabotage”; therefore making them of no threat to his kingdom!

So.... I challenge you to dare to be unique!  Not arrogant, boastful, or heady; but boldly confident in whom God has created you to be.  We must always adhere and conform to EVERYTHING that God has spoken and had recorded in our Bible.  If we are going to be successful as endtime warriors – we must decide to give the Holy Spirit permission to use our creative ability.   Why settle for being a cheap copy – when you can be a costly original? Come from behind that mask and refuse to be hindered any longer in those areas where you sense insecurity!  God is waiting for you to begin to display what He has placed in you.

No one can beat you at being you.  The world needs what the Lord has placed inside of you.  Be determine to a diamond (maybe still needing to be refined – but that’s okay!) and not a cubic zirconia gem.  Remember….The time is now….. and the person is YOU!

I’ve Got It……And I’m Going To Keep It!

Read - Deuteronomy 28:1-14

As the Lord begins to restore you to your wealthy place it is imperative that you have already made the proper preparations to maintain the same.  Planning, discipline and an open ear are a few of the essential tools that must be implemented.

(As a reminder, wealth is not limited to monetary increase or the gain of possessions in the physical realm.  We’ll discuss the subject of wealth at a late time.)

Begin now to write, amend or develop; (depending upon your individual level of spiritual maturity) an enhanced, strategic maintenance plan.  This plan must incorporate the well-defined vision that the Lord has given to you concerning your destiny.   Your plans must satisfy the required steps which are needed for you to obtain your God given goals.  Statistics have verified that most of the people who are sudden advanced to a higher plateau don’t maintain that status mainly because they didn’t have a written plan that they could use as their guide.  (Refer to Habakkuk 2:2a)

Although some people have very well organized plans – they lack the discipline and the tenacity to adhere to their plans.  In order to change my disciplinary actions, I must change my approach – my mind must be renewed. (Refer to Romans 12:2)  Discipline requires renewal.  Many of us lack the discipline to stick to those tasks that go “against the grain”.  However, we must also realize that some of us would have advanced a little sooner, had we applied just a little more discipline throughout our lives, in the areas that were more significant. 

Lastly we must fine tune our ability to hear the voice of the Lord. (Refer to John 10:27) Our ear must be open only to His guidance and direction.  Break that mold that causes you to think that our God is limited in His access to you.  When you know His voice, you will be able to recognize it without regarding the source from which it is being projected.   When you know His voice, you must have a receptive spirit to advance in “instant obedience” to His call.  When you know God’s voice, you must not waste time…Attempting to question His judgment.  An open ear to His voice will enable you to make the proper investments – those which WILL bring a profitable gain.

Yes… God has promised to return the years that: the locust, the canker worm, the caterpillar and the palmerworm have stolen (Refer to Joel 2:25).   This has already begun for many of us! However, as the return is restored to you – how are you going to keep it from being devoured?  One way is by remembering that it has now become your responsibility to be a good steward; which entails the application of God given strategies.  This will assure you of keeping all that has been restored to you and assist you to maintain your position as; the head and not the tail …and above ALWAYS and never, ever beneath…. again!

(Note: By “keeping” we are not implying hoarding or becoming selfish. But rather the using wisdom in the disbursement of our: time, gifts and talents….. and preventing the opening of a door which would permit the enemy access.)

           “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.” 

                                                     Proverbs 19:20   (ESV)

Check Your Connections!

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

Would you like to know the newspaper headlines for tomorrow?  What if your country’s security intelligence forces had the proper connections in advance to focus on where the next terrorist attack would occur …. Or the next major local catastrophe?  It doesn’t matter the situation; proper preparation requires that I get connected to the correct source.  When I am properly connected I can advance to my next place in the realm of the spirit; in peace and harmony…. On time!

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

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

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

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

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

As we approach the ending of this year begin to survey your connections.  Ask the Lord for the wisdom and the grace to “clean house” in the realm of the spirit.  Examination your connections   and terminate those that the Lord deems are no longer beneficial.  Trust in the Lord ….He has never, nor will He ever steer you to the wrong connections.

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:  And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.”   I John 4:1-3

Why Are You An Asymptomatic Believer?

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  Matthew 7:20

Mark 16:17 & 18 reads: “And these signs will follow those who BELIEVE: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues;  they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Those verses clearly state the signs, or the symptoms that are to be manifested in you as one who is a believer.  The Greek word which has been translated here for the word believe is piseno; meaning to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to a person or thing).

People can’t physically “see” the extent of your faith.  However the evidence of your inward conviction is characteristic with those “symptoms” stated in Mark 16.  The key here is to advance your level of faith to the degree that you, yourself are convinced of its authority and power.  We already have faith, we already have the ability and we have already received the proper authorization to successful display every “symptom” stated in Mark 16.  Yet we permit the enemy to: fool, mislead, trick and deceive us into doubting who and whose we really are! 

In medicine, a disease is considered asymptomatic if a patient is a carrier for a disease or infection but experiences no symptoms. A condition might be asymptomatic if it fails to show the noticeable symptoms with which it is usually associated.  Therefore, many of us can be referred to as Asymptomatic Believers!  We may possess the title of a Believer; know and use the correct phrases; we regularly attend services, pay our tithes and are generous in the giving of offerings; attend Bible ….and Prayer Meeting!  However, where is your level of faith registering on the “faith-odometer”?  How many of the symptoms of the believer which are listed in Mark 16: 17 &18 are evident in your life?

So in reference to the initial question, “Why are you an asymptomatic believer?”…… Only you know the genuine answer.  However, whatever your reasoning may be…. It’s only an excuse.  An excuse that the enemy has given to you – to prevent your effectiveness in defeating him and his kingdom.  An excuse ….a lie that you’ve believed and accepted as truth!

Let’s get down to some real business.  The time has come that we can no longer “comfortably” exist as asymptomatic.  We must now become so “symptomatic” in our profession, confessions and actions; that the manifestation of every sign that is recorded in Mark 16 is becoming evident in our lives.

The world needs to see US walking in the same power that was displayed in years past. They MUST know that our God is the true and living God…whose power hasn’t diminished… and that He is truly the same yesterday, today and shall be forever more!!

Be bold and very courageous!  Be persuaded and very confident!  Focus more on BEING who you really are…instead of just hiding behind your title!  You already have within you everything that you need to be that Believer which is mentioned in Mark 16.

So… the day of exposure is here!  Be determined to no longer be an Asymptomatic Believer. The baton has been given to you…..NOW…..what are you going to do with it???????

God Has Already Heard Me!

“¹⁴ And this is the confidence (the assurance, the privilege of boldness) which we have in Him: [we are sure] that if we ask anything (make any request) according to His will (in agreement with His own plan), He listens to and hears us. ¹⁵ And if (since) we [positively] know that He listens to us in whatever we ask, we also know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted us as our present possessions] the requests made of Him.”   

                                                                                            I John 5:14 & 15 Amplified Version

Two of the most prevalent strategies that our adversary has used for years among the members of the body of Christ, is to get us to doubt God and to waste time.  He knows that: most of us are too wise to go back out into the world; and that we love the Lord too much to steal His tithe and/or offerings.  He (the enemy) also knows that most Christians are not very knowledgeable concerning the Word of God!

Hosea 4:6 tells us that we are destroyed for the lack of knowledge.  Therefore, although we love the Lord, we are not advancing and maintaining our stamina in the realm of the spirit.  This is simply because we are not in possession of the proper concepts and precepts concerning the application of the Word of God.  One of the areas of our lives where this is prevailing is in our prayer life.

According to our text, whenever I pray, God hears what I’m saying.  Therefore to me this  means, that because God is neither deaf, nor void of understanding concerning my intentions;  I don’t need to pray the same request over and over and over and over again.  When we pray, the enemy has us so consumed with fear, doubt, unbelief or just plain ignorance – that we feel as though when we don’t SEE the immediate manifestation of our request… we begin to panic.  Listen, and listen to me well…. God is saying….I heard you the first time!  (And please don’t refer to Matthew 7:7 or Luke 11:9). We must remember that God’s timing is usually not in accordance with ours.  If I stop praying for something when I can see the manifestation of what I’ve prayed for….. is that walking by faith or by sight? 

So, after I’ve prayed, I need to now walk in faith – denouncing the spirit of fear, tearing down every road block and hindrance that would prevent the manifestation (in this realm) of my petition.  I also need to become mature enough…. To the extent…. that I can maintain my focus regardless - and pray God’s promises – and not my problems!  I need to not negate the manifestation of my request, by releasing from my mouth words that are contrary to my spoken request of the Lord.

God HAS Already Heard Me! Therefore, I will stand and realize that, if there has been a delay in the physical manifestation to the response of my request; that there’s a principle that the Lord is attempting to bring to my awareness.  So again I ask: “If I stop praying when I physically see the manifestation  - aren’t I really walking by sight and not by faith????”.  

I’ve heard many say P.U.S.H. meaning Praying, Until, Something, Happens.  However I’d rather say that P.U.S.H. means to Persevering, Under, Satanic, Harassment!

Because God HAS already heard me; I won’t waste precious time walking in unbelief and presenting the same request to Him again as though He is ignorant, deaf or void of understanding!  I’ll walk in faith and begin to praise Him in advance, before I even SEE…in this realm, the manifestation of my request….because I know, that I know, that I know….. IT’S ON THE WAY!!!  Therefore…I can shout NOW!!!!!

(Remember …..Your prayers must be in accord with God’s written Word!)

I’ll be a Witness…… But to Them?

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

 St. John 4:9

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

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

So we must expand our mindsets to view others – first in the realm of the Spirit.  We must be open to eagerly witness to “them”.   We must become more mature in the realm of the Spirit and   seek for those who we would not ordinarily witness to…..to those, to whom we through our own prideful mindsets, feel as though we shouldn’t witness to.  Now…. 99% of the time, whatever reason we will use to validate our actions of neglect, has risen from the residue of pride, fear, or low self-esteem, that is still lingering around!

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

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

Ezekiel 33:6 reminds us of the importance of being a witness to everyone who hasn’t been warned about their sin nature. 

I would like to challenge you to broaden your horizons concerning soul winning.  The Lord has continued to delay His return.  This is giving those who are still lost an opportunity to get “it together”.  It is our obligation to seize every given available occasion to express a concern for those who are not saved.

We must enhance our concepts of the loss….. eliminate our group of the “them”….. and yes, find the loss…at any cost! 

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

Faith, Faith, Faith

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

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

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

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

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Seven Types of Faith

(Not Listed in any Specific Order)

1. Natural Faith (Ex.- The type of faith that we extend to: bus drivers, our Doctors, our  banks,  - no one has ever questioned a bus Driver about their credentials – we just by “natural faith” take a seat and ride!)
2. Little Faith (Matthew 6:30)
3. Mustard Seed Faith (Matthew 17:20 – small but potent)
4. Great Faith (Matthew 8: 8 & 10)
5. Measure of Faith (Romans 12:3)
6. Faithless Faith (John 20:27)
7. Visual Faith (Luke 5:20)

Remember: Faith without a corresponding action is still dead. However the key is not to attempt to proceed with the ACTION until you have implemented FAITH!!!! 

The Essential Foundational “Ships”    

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

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

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

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

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

Our Young Men Are Always Under Attack!

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

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

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

PRAYER FOR OUR MEN ©2007

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HAVE A BLESSED THANKSGIVING DAY

Let Every Day Be a Day To Render Thanks!

            T – TRIUMPH (2 Corinthians 2:14)……. Triumph in every situation.

            H – HOPE (Psalm 3:7) …………………..We have Hope in the Lord

            A – ASSURANCE (I John 5:14)………… Our Assurance is in God

            N – NO GOOD THING (Psalm 6:10) ……… I will walk in supernatural Abundance!

            K – KINGDOM PRINCIPLES (Matthew 6:10) ….I operate according to KP

            S – SHOUT (Psalm 47:1) ……………….  I will shout in the midst of it all!

            G – GIVE (Luke 6:38)…………………… I am a giver, therefore people will reciprocate

            I – I CAN DO ALL THINGS (Philippians 4:13)…The sky is the limit – no boundaries!

           V – VICTORY (Psalm 44:5)…………….. I am victorious!

            I  – INTERCESSOR (Romans 8:26)……. I have a full time Intercessor 24/7/365

           N – NO WEAPON (Isaiah 54:17)……Weapons will be formed but will have no victory.

           G – GOODNESS (Psalm 23:6)………….. I expect perpetual blessings – forever!

“Every day is a day of thanksgiving!”

Therefore, we as Saints of the Most High God, must learn that as we live according to the Kingdom Principles above, we will walk in the manifestation of Kingdom Benefits.

The Three “F’s” -Focus, Fill, Forget

“………The JOY of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10

Today the Lord wants us to know that it doesn’t matter how situations may appear to be; nor does it matter what sort of negative or bad news we may receive; we must learn to permit the JOY that is contained within the Word of the Lord to be our strength… our support system and our well from which we can draw cool and refreshing water.

Sometimes we have a way of permitting the cares of this world to weigh us down and weaken us.  Most of the diseases and ailments that we are afflicted with today are the result of years of worry and stress.  In many instances we have inherited these genes from our biological  parents….. who were themselves the products of generations where stress and worrying were prevalent. 

However, now the Lord wants us to remember that he has instructed us to rejoice in Him always…. – and again, He reminds us to rejoice.  HOW? By allowing our strength to come from the Lord.  HOW? By learning to Focus, Fill and Forget.

1. Focus more on the Blessings than on the Curses; on the positive more than the negative; on the good rather than the evil.  Focus, Focus, FOCUS!!! (Deuteronomy 28)
2. Fill your mouth with a new vocabulary.  Use words that will uplift and strengthen your spirit; rather than dishearten or discourage it.   (Proverbs 18:21) Fill your physical territory; your home, your desk, and your car; with constant reminders of faith filled words.  Replace as many things in your life with items that will build and affirm - not diminish your faith.  Create an atmosphere of being optimistic – wherever you are!  Let praise always be in your mouth.  Fill your mouth, fill your atmosphere and fill your spirit with the Joy of the Lord!
3. Forget yesterday; today is a new day.  Forget the arguments, the misunderstandings, the regrets, the childhood rejections, and anything that attempts to steal your peace.  Not one decision that occurred in the past can be amended.  We can only attempt to alter the consequences or the results of those decisions.  So begin each day as a new day, with new opportunities, new strategies, and a new agenda.  An agenda of forgetting the past and pressing forward.                         (Philippians 3:13)

Many years ago, our youth choir sang a song and it said, “I’ve got the J – O- Y; JOY, Joy of the Holy Ghost…. Don’t Let the Devil steal your joy…. Joy of the Holy Ghost.

They also sang another song….. “Hallelujah Anyhow”.  “Never let the devil get you down, when life’s troubles come your way, hold your head up high and say HALLELUJAH ANYHOW”.

Our only survival plan for this era is to:

Focus our minds on the promises of God.

Fill our mouths with faith filled words.  And above all…

Forget any and everything that will not yield to my advancement, my motivation and my stamina.

Then we will be in the position, and have the mindset, which will usher us into the place, that will truly allow the JOY of the Lord to be our strength.

Slow down…Be Kind! 

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

“Elohay Chasdi”

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

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

Read Psalm 59 & I Corinthians 13

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

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

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

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

May I rapidly mature to the extent that I will become aware of every selfish motive that I still possess…. and actively make the necessary amendments.  May I also realize that I need not “feel” like being kind….. to produce the action of kindness.  Let kindness flow from me just as naturally as the blood flows through my veins. 

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

Thanks  “Elohay Chasdi” for every expression of kindness that you have extended to me.  May I therefore take the time to…. Slow Down and Be Kind….. today and always.

Spiritual Cataracts

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

Read: 2 Kings 6:8-22

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

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

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

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

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

Ask the Lord to reveal to you every area in your life where He is still not “Lord”.   In other words; those areas where the illumination of His word is not prevailing to the extent, that you are willing to bring about a total submission to His divine authority.  Ask Him for the corrective orders and directions which will permit an enlightenment of who He is to be evident and to prevail in your life.

Lastly, remember that God will perform the necessary procedures – but we must be willing to do our part by walking in obedience, persistence, and a determination to do whatever the He mandates for our lives. 

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

Stay in the Race!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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