God’s Jealousy (pt. 2)

Today O God, may I not provoke your anger.

“El KANNA”

(The Jealous God – Exodus 20:5)

“You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,” Exodus 20:5 

                                                                                           “El ZELOO”

(The jealous God – James 4:4&5)

⁴ Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. ⁵ Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”?                      James 4:4-5 NKJV

Read James 4

Although we may not view it from this perspective; the truth is still very evident.   Sometimes we are – knowingly or through ignorance; forcing God to reveal another character quality which is motivated by His love for us. That expression is His jealousy.

We must always remain cognizant that every attribute of God that He reveals to us; is still His attempt to get us to understand His love for us.  It is because of that love, that He only desires for us to acquire the best in every arena.  Many times, because we don’t fully understand this total concept of God’s love for us; we think that He has established unrealistic demands or limitations upon us.  God’s guidelines for our lives are always motivated from a perspective of genuine love, true love – the which… most of us have no true concept.  If we could ever totally understand His love – then we would have no problem adhering to His word – Regardless. 

As I so often have stated; when in our lives, we have not received the proper application of unselfish love; then, we in return are more prone to lack the ability to properly love God.  In life, this is the reason why we can willingly and willfully disobey Him and reject His love – through our displays of disobedience.   Whenever we decide to walk according to our own desires or to delight ourselves in what the world has to offer; we are rejecting the love of God. In reality I am saying – “God I Still Don’t Understand Your Love For Me!”  The same holds true when we are engaged in procrastination, slothfulness and tardiness.  Far too often the Lord has instructed us to do or say something in a given situation; or to be at a given pace at a specific time; or better yet.. to BEGIN a function at a given time.  However, we have fallen short.  Regardless to the reasoning that we may have given; regardless to the excuses or the “validations” that we may have presented ….we have not valued the love of God to the extent, that we will place it as our first priority.  The spirit of pride is still masking its self in our lives. For example, when we are late, or when we procrastinate; we have decided that our “way of doing it” is better.  By do so…we are placing other things ahead of God …. and provoking Him to display His jealousy.  Why? Because we have become like the world; and placed our thoughts, plans etc. superior to those of the Holy Spirit.  Our actions may not reveal our true intent…. however they do reveal our final decisions!

The Message Bible states James 4:4-5 this way. “You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that “he’s a fiercely jealous lover.” And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that “God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.”

So Holy Spirit; I ask you to assist me as I re-establish and continue to keep God as the focal point of my life.  In my list of priorities, it is my desire to esteem God.  I will have, and uphold an amended consciousness of Your love for me. Because I now understand Your unselfish, “no holds barred” love for me, I will immediately begin to return the same.  May I always remember that everything I do must be for no other reason - than to express to You and show others my love for You. Anything that has moved You from Your place of supremacy in my life;  whether it be prestigious positions, business or personal relationships, money, assets – WHATEVER … it will now be moved a position of subordination.  I will no longer “cheat on you” Lord.  I will  never again place my thoughts, motives or my actions in a position which will provoke you to display jealousy.  I will not lean to my own understanding; but will truly acknowledge you in ALL of my dealings.  You are number one in my life …. And my motives and my actions will now begin to reflect the same. 

Perennial or Annual?

You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain….. John 15:16

One of the advantages of living in this region is that we have the opportunity to experience the distinct changes in the weather temperatures.  Accompanying those “seasons” are also a variety of flowers.  Some of which are classified as perennials, while others as annuals.  Both are capable of producing an array of blooming plants.  Although many will continue to bloom throughout the summer – with the arrival of the colder temperatures the distinction will be revealed.  

Perennials are those faithful plants that are able to endure the winter temperatures and remain unaffected by the cold. It doesn’t matter how bitterly cold the temperatures, nor how much snow falls during the winter season; those perennials will return year, after year, after year.  Even some of the early spring perennials will begin to bloom in the snow – because they have been made to endure.

Now on the other hand we have those annuals.  These are the flowering plants that we must purchase yearly.  Although many can endure the heat of the summer – when the temperatures begin to dip  – so will they.  These tend to be those “fussy” plants.  Some of them like and thrive in the sunny sections of the garden; while others enjoy the shadier sections.   Some enjoy daily waterings; while others will survive the heat of the summer days.  Nevertheless, they are beautiful – but only for one season.  It doesn’t matter what type of soil you plant them in, nor the mixture of food you give to them – when the temperatures begin to change – so will they.

Now… at this point you should already be able to anticipate my next question!  What type of Saint do you believe yourself to be?  What type would others consider you to be?    Perennial or Annual?  What facts or truths can be presented as evidence to support or confirm your status?  What would be the basis for your responses? 

God have equipped us ALL to be “Perennial Saints”.  (II Timothy 2:3).  We must learn how to “take a lick and keep on tickin”.  We must never permit the “winter season” in their lives to have the ability to prevent us from being the: faithful, dependable, loyal, committed, dedicated and  true person that God has already fortified us to be.

While I’m not a farmer, I do know that fruit trees are perennials!  Therefore, if I am going to produce fruit in the realm of the spirit – I must be able to endure – as a good soldier.  The Bible declares that we will be known by the fruit that we produce (Matthew 7:16).  However, you can’t plant an apple tree today and receive apples tomorrow. (Normally!!)  Likewise in the realm of the spirit. If we are going to produce fruit for the kingdom, then we must learn to be perennials – and endure until we have produced the fruit that God has programmed us to manifest.

We can also learn another lesson from plants.  I have these tulips (perennials) in my yard that faithfully return yearly.  However, because I don’t go through the trouble of digging them up every year; (which would give them a chance to rest) – and replanting them  … each year when they return… they will bloom.   Yet the blooms are decreased in size yearly.  The change was gradual and barely noticeable for the first year or two.  Nevertheless, when I look at my lawn now over a period of many, many years, the tulips are much smaller than the newer purchased ones.  So what does this mean?  We must take the time to get our proper rest.  Far gone should be the times when we are permitting ourselves to work, and work and work – year in and year out and think that we will still be able to maintain and produce a maximum output.

I could continue with the comparison of Perennials and Annuals, however I’m sure that you’ve received the concept by now.

So, make the proper adjustments immediately; first to be a “Perennial Saint”.  Next, to establish a healthy regimen in the natural that will permit you with the ability to get the proper rest and vacation time….  That will avail you with the opportunity to be a fruit bearing tree.  Lastly, pray that your fruit also will be perpetual in nature.

…...Nothing Shall Offend Them

“Great peace have they which love thy law; and nothing shall offend them.” Psalm 119:165

Your ability to become offended reveals the level of maturity from which you operate.  The word offend in this verse refers to “stumbling block”.  Therefore when I permit anything to cause me to stumble or to divert my focus from the Lord; I have not learned to avail myself of His ever abiding peace. 

The peace of God represents the wholeness of God; His completeness – nothing missing.  When I realize that God has the ability to control every situation; I will then receive the confidence in my spirit to rest in Him. 

I’m reminded of a toddler when learning to walk.  They must learn to be confident, as well as how to balance themselves.  When we haven’t learned to walk confidently according to God’s word; we permit the cares of this world, people and even our own undisciplined motives – to become a stumbling block and we lose our balance.  When we haven’t obtained the power to have the proper balance in our lives; we stumble and sometimes fall.

I must also realize that the spirit of fear is the anchored root system and underlying, hidden culprit that is still present when I am yielding to the influences of offence.  When ungodly fear is eradicated from my life, I will recognize that offence will no longer be an issue.

Offences will come (Luke 17:1) – but I don’t have to permit them to divert my attention.  If I prepare myself daily with an awareness that I am more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37); I will know how to receive the peace of God; which has the power and the authority to permit me to remain stable and to triumph in every situation (Philippians 4:7).  Peace is not the absence of chaos.  Peace is the mindset that affords me the ability to remain unshaken – regardless. 

To rest in the peace of God reveals that I have permitted the power of God to be my support system… and that I am trusting in His promises to be my daily provision.

Therefore, to prevent the offences that so readily appear in life from becoming a stumbling block in my life; the spirit of fear must be dealt with.  I must appropriate the mindset that God’s unconditional love will yet prevail in every situation.  I can’t become distracted nor lose my balance; and above all I must trust the fact that God will vindicate every contrary wind that blows my way….and somehow….. always cause His favor to reign in my life! (Romans 8:28) 

“Those who love your laws have great peace of heart and mind and do not stumble.”

                                                                                                   Psalm 119:165(The Living Bible)

Power Outage

Read.. I John 4:1-5

A while ago there was an article in “Bloomberg Businessweek” which attempted to explain the shifting balance in the world’s economy.  The writer exampled the purchases of a few US major brands like Heinz (worth about $23 billion) and Burger King ($3.3 billion) by foreign investors.  The writer also shared an insight to the enhanced concepts that have now invaded our economic and political arena – from which no one is currently exempted. In other words the power that once stabilized the US and her “commodities” is no longer valid.  She has lost her leverage and is experiencing a major power outage.

As I read the article, I began to equate it to a dilemma that we are apparently experiencing in the body of Christ.  It appears that we also have been invaded by foreign investors!  It appears that the Church has now given birth to a generation; who, like the new breed of Israelites (read Exodus chapter 1) - knows not the God of their former and founding Fathers.

The Church has permitted the removal of the old land mark – for which we were cautioned not to do (Proverbs 23:10).  We have permitted the elimination of foundational principles in our Churches by those who KNEW NOT OUR GOD…….foreign investors! We have looked in the opposite direction with the introduction of a total “lack of respect” for the ordinances and sacraments in our Churches – and adopted “less intimidating” laws….. foreign investors!   In other words, I would dare to say that the average Christian has taken this dispensation of “grace” as a “get out of jail free card”.  In many instances;  they have no longer acquired the proper convictions to correctly amend their spirits to conform to such mandates as: celibacy, tithing or fasting.  We have now sought to just be “comfortable” and to engage in whatever we “feel” is correct……foreign investor! And the list could continue forever!

So…. what has this given rise to? Sadly to say…the pitiful, disgraceful, inadequate spiritual state that we find existing in far too many of our Churches.  We’ve permitted these foreign investors to cause a “disturbance” and a depletion in the realm of the spirit.  Therefore we have a vast power outage!

The Church’s power outage, is to the extent that many Christians no longer experience the current which empowers them with the drive to: visit and care for the sick, make prison visits, regularly attend prayer meetings and Bible studies… and what is an All Night Prayer Service????   We will comfortably sit and leave those “task” to those who are “called” to those ministries!   We, the body of Christ, have experienced a major power outage in the realm of the spirit; therefore the enemy can just come boldly into our Churches without any or by receiving very little opposition. We need locks on the Church doors and security guards in our services because we don’t have the power to build and establish an effective barrier against the enemy’s tactics……power outage!

Foreign investors may not have the ability to be conquered in the economic arena.  However, II Chronicles 7:14 is still applicable today.  We are fully aware of the fact, that as the end of time as we know it draws nigh; that there are certain occurrences which must transpire to fulfill what the Lord has promised.  However, we must be determined that we will not fall privy to any of the standards which are being introduced to us from the kingdom of darkness – foreign investors.

 I challenge you to examine yourself.  Make sure that you are an intricate part of the solution – and not the problem.  There is no earlier time than now to begin to make the proper amends to assure yourself that you will not be included in this power outage….but that your power supply will remain….and that your connection to the main power source maintains its authenticity.

 “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them.”                 I John 4:1-5 ESV

“I Go To The ROCK!” 

Lord, YOU are my strength!

“JEHOVAH UZZI”

(The Lord my strength - Psalms 28:7)

“JEHOVAH TSURI”

(O Lord my strength - Psalm 19:14)

“My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. “  Psalm 73:26                                                  New Living Translation (©2007)

As we have daily encountered some of the adverse circumstances of life; we’ve realized that we have only maintained the ability to yet be triumphant because of an inner strength that has been and always will be prevalent.   This strength is not our strength, but strength of the Lord.

The word in the above texts for strength translates as “rock”. Therefore, Lord, may I remember that you are my perpetual “ROCK”.  When all else fails—you will remain constant.  Even if there comes a time as Psalm 73:6 references; when my health, wealth, and spirit become overwhelmed—you will always be still my strength.  Daily may I never attempt to stand in my own strength.  Daily may I acknowledge that you are my power source.  May I never attempt to exhort my own ideologies, methodologies, concepts or percepts – outside of the perimeter of who you are – but acknowledge your strength in all of my ways.  Daily may I remain cognizant that I CAN do all things through your strength which is that rock; that pillar and that eternal fortress forever in my life. 

So Lord, when everything: every foundation, every prop, every support system that has been erected in my life - is shaken….may I never, never, never forget that YOU are my strength …..my rock. 

May I fully understand and cling to the essence of an old favorite hymn which states:

“On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand”.   You oh Lord are my Jehovah Tsuri…..You are my Jehovah Uzzi……You are MY ROCK!!!

I Go to the Rock – Dottie Rambo (also recorded by Whitney Huston)

Where do I go when there's nobody else to turn to? Who do I talk to when nobody wants to listen? Who do I lean on when there's no foundation stable?
I go to the rock, I know He's able, I go to the rock.
The Lord is the rock I go to the rock for my salvation, I go to the stone that the builders rejected. I run to the mountain and the mountain, He stands by me.
When the Earth all around me is sinking sand, On Christ, the solid rock I stand,     

 When I need a shelter, when I need a friend I go to the rock.
Where do I go, where do I go, when the storms of life are threatening?

Who do I turn to, when those winds of sorrows blow?

And is there a refuge, in the time of tribulation?

I go to the rock I know He's able I go to the rock.

God Has Called You To Greater

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unless I can realize that I still have a “greater” within me; I will not advance to that place ….. and sadly to say…. When next year arrives…  I will be in this same place that I am now!

I would like to challenge you to begin this process NOW.  Set daily small, achievable goals for yourself. Be determined that you will no longer just play the cards that have been dealt to you. Demand a whole new deck!  Where ever you go – expect to the situations and circumstances to be changed….. simply because you have arrived on the scene …and have brought with you the divine presence of the Holy Ghost!  Learn to be like David and encourage yourself!  Now.. don’t get heady; but walk in a “boldness” and a level of confidence that demands that the greater status which is within you … be hidden no more!

Dreams are excellent and are necessary – however, the time has now arrived for our dreams to become the manifested reality of the “greater” that we all have within us!  

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

Ephesians 3:20 AMP

Are You a Spiritual Schizophrenic?

^“Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.”

                                                                                           Philippians 2:5-8 The Message Bible

Are you a Spiritual Schizophrenic?  If someone were to ask you that question, what would be your immediate response?  More than likely, everyone would emphatically reply NO!  But if we were to take an inventory of our lives- today - would our “walk” be in alignment with our “talk”?

Basically “schizo”; without getting into too much detail; is a mental disorder that makes it extremely difficult and sometimes impossible for a person to tell the difference between what is real and not real.  This disorder hinders one’s ability to think clearly; to have normal emotional responses; and act normally in social situations.

So, think about your daily walk.  Then consider the following;

1. In the realm of the Spirit…what influence do I impose to diabolical plots and plans?
2. Can I readily make the distinction between the real and the “temporal”?
3. Do I display on a regular basis wherever I go the character qualities of who I really am? ……Or am I still double minded; perpetrating a fraud and operating as an undercover Saint?

Schizophrenia is also categorized as a chronic, severe, and disabling brain disorder that has affected people throughout history.  It’s a mental condition.  What is the real condition of my mind?   Has my mind been renewed to the extent that it has the ability not to fall prey to the down falls that have plagued my genetic bloodline?   Or am I just “pretending” when I am in the presence of others, that all is well?  Does my mind have the stability to resist and conquer the constant pressures which are hurled and directed towards me from the kingdom of darkness?  We are truly in a new season – one that has not been experienced in times past.  Therefore, if we are going to make an impact and persevere in these last days, we will need the endtime wisdom, to strategically comprehend our mission of walking by faith and not by sight – a principle that first requires a “disengaging” of our current mind set. 

We must encounter and embrace a spiritual “disabling brain disorder” that will permit us to be governed by the Holy Spirit; rather that by the ordinances of this world’s systems, its boundaries and its limitations  - (our former mindset which have been programmed into our minds for years).

To be classified as a schizophrenic in the natural would afford me the opportunity to be viewed from an extremely negative perspective.   To be classified as and operate as a schizophrenic in the realm of the Spirit, could lead to results which will be detrimental to body of Christ! Now as ever before, my walk and my talk – decrees and my confessions must advance to a place of total reality and manifestation.  I must totally believe that my words – every spoken word… has the power to impact the atmosphere.. and bring about a change!     

So, prayerfully consider James chapter 1.  Seek the face of the Lord for the ability to effectively and thoroughly apply wisdom to every situation that you encounter.  As endtime Saints we are now in need of that type of wisdom which will enable us to be healed and made whole from any type of “spiritual schizophrenia” that might be still lingering within us…….  Still undetected and  still hidden by spiritual imposters!

“So get rid of all that is wrong in your life, both inside and outside, and humbly be glad for the wonderful message we have received, for it is able to save our souls as it takes hold of our hearts.” James 1:21  (The Living Bible)

I Must Forgive!

Lord, May I remain cognizant that forgiveness is a decision!

“El NORE”

(God that forgave - Psalm 99:8)

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

Until we have received an in-depth comprehension of God’s love for man, we cannot even initiate a conversation on His forgiveness.   

Although we don’t usually envision it to be so, the concept of forgiveness is birthed from a seed of love.   The act of forgiveness is more beneficial for me than for my offender. Inevitably, when we increase in our knowledge of; and become engulfed with an awareness of God’s love - then the decision to forgive one another will become as natural to us as breathing.

For far too long we have been deceived into thinking that the act of forgiveness must involve forgetting as well.  Forgiveness is a decision not a feeling.  The act of forgiveness is not reliant upon the acceptance nor the initiation of the offender.  

Forgiveness is a principle that was established by God because He knew that man would sin. He also knew that (1) sin would separate man from Himself and (2) His love for man was so great that He didn’t want to be separated from him.   Hence He has given to us His most precious gift in the person of His son Jesus to atone for our sin, thus bridging the gap caused by sin. 

Therefore, whatever “traps” that I become ensnared in that will cause me to commit a sin - because of God’s unconditional love for me - the blood of Jesus has already made atonement for them. I must now learn how to receive God’s forgiveness for myself and apply it to others who may offend, misuse and abuse me.  I must also realize that to walk in unforgiveness is only a deceptive tactic which has been released from the kingdom of darkness – which permits me to establish a gap in my relationship with the Lord!

Now… contrary to popular belief…..what a blessing it is to forgive and NOT forget – but REMEMBER! To remember the offenses that have scarred me – yet, to have finally reached a plateau of spiritual maturity in the Lord, where I now possess the ability to DECIDE that I will administer true forgiveness to my offenders!  HALLELUJAH!!!!

So, Lord may I daily embrace and extend to others the true forgiveness that you have extended to me….. and walk in the freedom thereof!

HALLELUJAH!!!!

Confrontation is a Must

Read: Nehemiah 4

When we observe the photographs of the warriors and soldiers during the Biblical era who were engaged in battle, we will notice that their armor and/or protective gear only covered the front of their bodies.  Therefore, they were only prepared to have a face to face encounter with their enemy.  Their armor offered minimal or no protection for their backs.  They had to keep their enemy in front of them and never permit their enemies to approach them from the back – as this would surely cost them their lives.  Their attitude wasn’t passive; their mindset was sure; and their weapons were in hand.

Today, we must remember that we are still builders of the wall.  As we continue to build our impenetrable, imperforateable barrier; we must also maintain the stamina which is required to boldly and confidently confront every force that will oppose us.  We can’t just sit around, and forget that we are constantly engaged in a war!  We must have the mindset that “I” will stand up and attack any and everything that is not “God ordained”. 

Therefore, I must always bear in mind that:

1. My spiritual armor must remain intact at all times.  I must eliminate every sin and the weight that will so easily attempt to distract me. (Ephesians 6:10-18; Hebrews 12:1)
2. I can’t for one iota lose sight of my enemy. (I Corinthians 16:13; I Thessalonians 5:12)
3. I must observe the enemy’s tracks, and confront him BEFORE he makes his next move! (1 Peter 5:8)
4. It is imperative that my attack to not reactive – but proactive.  (Ephesians 6;12)
5. I must also know my weapons and how to use them - if my confrontation is to make an impact.  2 Corinthians 10:4)

So to summarize (Read II Corinthians 10:1-6):

Confrontation is the most effective when it is initiated in the realm of the spirit. 

Confrontation is strategically implemented when it is motivated by the spirit. 

Confrontation is a vital requirement for every successful endtime saint of God.

Confrontation mandates that I gird up the loins of my mind.

Confrontation refuses to permit any: idea, motive or action which is contrary to God’s written Word to manifest its self in my presence.

Remember: Whatever I fail to confront – receives my stamp of approval!

It’s Time To Move Your Anchor….Again!!!

………… Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. Luke 5:4

The word for today is one of encouragement and congratulations.  For the Lord has said that it doesn’t matter who you are; if you’ve committed yourself to advancing your walk with him - you are to be commended.  You’ve successfully conquered all that the enemy has thrown upon you.  You’ve excelled on your current level and within your current dimension.  The time has now come for you to take your spiritual walk into your uncharted waters.  However, bear in mind that promotion is a double sided coin.  While we ascend to the highest plateau in one dimension; upon reaching that next dimension, we are once again on the ground level. 

In the natural, we can usually realize our growth and know when we made the necessary accomplishments which are required for advancement.  However, far too often in the realm of the Spirit we don’t recognize the signs.   

As you continue to progress into this new season, move your anchor into deeper waters.  The deeper waters will produce those boisterous waves and the unpredictable undercurrents.   But you are now ready to ride out the waves while maintaining your focus in the midst of every storm.   Navigating through the deep waters will prove to be very advantageous.   Launch out into the deep.  Stretch your faith!  One will never receive mountain moving faith or produce “a prison door releasing praise”, while routing a course through shallow waters.

Leaders! (and potential leaders) Don’t permit the spirit of passivity to become a comfort zone.  This spirit has begun to occupy the seats in our churches simply because WE are not moving our anchors. WE must continue to take the proper measures to advance ourselves, if we are to lead those whom have been untrusted to us to the next level and the next dimension.

Consider this:

Have your church services become so “routine” that they fail to permit the move of the Holy Ghost

Then it's time to move your anchor!

Note: Remember, an emotionally charged service is not necessarily the evidence that the Holy Ghost is at work.  

Are souls no longer receiving the conviction of the Holy Ghost?  

Then it's time to move your anchor!

Are people coming in and leaving the services, still unbroken under the anointing of the Holy Ghost?  

Then it's time to move your anchor.

Lastly, the deep waters are not heavily populated.  Don’t become overly concerned about those who are not ready to accompany you.   Jehovah Shamah will alway (no “s”) and always be there!

Therefore:

1.   Seek the face of God in fasting and prayer for divine revelations, wisdom and power. 

2.   Then... Pick up your anchor.  Uproot and carefully weed out every hindering spirit.

3.   Launch out into the deeper waters by elevating your level expectation, by embracing and not avoiding difficult situations and by asking God to uniquely use you to manifest or to give birth to a level of faith that has no limits. Move forward cautiously but not fearfully. 

4.   Watch as the materialization of God’s promises become a part of your daily walk.

Saints! Move your anchor and allow God to prove himself faithful to you and the ministry.  (Even if you are not the Pastor or one of the ministry leaders – if you move your anchor and begin to launch your spiritual walk into deeper waters – you will glean the ability to greatly impact your entire church!)

This is the season….. Now is the time…. And YOU are the channel!

Servanthood Prayer Those Who Lead

(And Potential Leaders)

Father God I thank you for the opportunity to be used of the Holy Spirit to minister to your people......

Therefore, I have come to the realization that if I am to lead effectively, I must first become a servant.  I will therefore refine my servanthood mentality to the utmost.                                               

As I seek to obtain a more in-depth perception of those whom you have given me to serve, may I continue to curtail or “redirect” my fortitude, and submit to the spirit of humility that is required of me to serve.

Lord, I realize the mandate on my life to constantly cultivate every area of my being.  I will never permit pride to mask its self in my life, thus enabling me to become nonchalant, self-satisfied, or complacent in my relationship with you.

You require Excellence.  Not perfection; but rather that I operate from a mindset of brilliance and superiority; yet never headiness.   I therefore decree to align every aspect of my life to display the same.  I will continue to press into your sovereignty.  I will lead with integrity, with expectation and with dedication.  I am a faithful and obedient steward over all that you have positioned in my charge. 

Daily may I continue to realize that I must strive, with my entire being to love the unlovable, teach the unteachable, and reach the unreachable. Then will I possess the qualities displayed by Christ, and have at my disposal the mentality to serve all men to the highest.

This is your servant’s prayer….. decreed and declared in the name of Jesus – the chief servant; Amen.

Keep Your Water Shaft Unpolluted

“David said on that day, Whoever smites the Jebusites, let him get up through the water shaft and smite the lame and the blind who are detested by David’s soul….”   2 Samuel 5:8 (Amplified)

As we read this story about the capture of Jerusalem from the Jebusites we will find that King David had a strategy.  This reminds us that whenever we are going to be victorious in any type of confrontation – we must first have a strategic plan. Bear in mind that our adversary isn’t powerful nor a genius - but he is strategic and tenacious. 

David’s plan was to use the water shaft. A water shaft was an underground conduit for bringing water from a spring into a city. David knew that the water shaft would give him the access into the city – yet give him the ability to arrive undetected.  David didn’t attempt to devise a new method to gain access – he just used what was already available.  

What is the water shaft in your life?  What is the source in your life that keeps your soul, your mind and your spirit refreshed?  Whatever the source we must make certain that our personal water shaft remains free from debris.  We can’t afford to permit our water shaft to become clogged nor to circulate polluted water.

The enemy will use whatever access is available to gain entrance. He will try to poison your water shaft.  He will try to clog up your water shaft.   By any means necessary… he still wants access to kill, steal and destroy. He will use your eye gate, ear gate, etc. to gain an access to pollute your water shaft. 

You see…Water is one of those resources that our bodies need on a regular basis.  Both our physical and spiritual bodies need a fresh supply of water on a daily basis.   Our natural body is composed of mostly water.  Statistics have revealed that our bodies are more than 60 percent water. Blood is 92 percent water, the brain and muscles are 75 percent water, and bones are about 22 percent water.  A human can survive for a month or more without eating food, but only a week or so without drinking water.

So in the natural – so in the spiritual.  It is vital that our spiritual bodies receive water – that living water…. in order to be effective. So by any means necessary – keep your water shaft unpolluted. 

Daily maintenance is a dire necessity.

Ask the Lord for a sharpened and a keener discernment with the ability to detect the enemy while he is yet afar off! 

Remember: It’s the “little” foxes that spoil the vine…. So it only takes one small action, one gate left unprotected, one small breach in the wall….. to permit an access to your water shaft…. Which can lead to the potential of your entire water shaft becoming polluted!

Clean Hands….AND a Pure Heart

……..Who may stand in his holy place?  The one who has clean hands and a pure heart…

Psalm 24:3 & 4

One of the prerequisites to maintaining a proper relationship with the Lord is for us to regularly monitor our actions and our motives.  The above scripture acknowledges the importance of both of these qualities.

There are many instances when people have asked if doing certain things will cause them to go to hell.  However, while our eternal state is of great importance – our daily walk is of equal relevance.   My daily walk as a Christian will establish one of two points.  It will verify that I sincerely love the Lord – more than I love myself.  Or it will confirm that although I have acknowledged Christ as my Savior; I have not matured in my relationship with Him.

The statement “clean hands”; above the obvious, is also making a reference to those things that we are involved or associated with.  We also must be certain that we have not become members of various organizations (especially those of you who are in college) whose origin is demonic.  There are several groups who are accomplishing much within in our communities and making a great impact.   However the real motive is to get you to become connected with them.  Therefore, by doing so, you have willingly given satan an access.

A “pure heart” reflects on my intentions.  If my actions are correct – but my reasonings which support my actions are not resonating from the character qualities of the throne of God – then I am operating from a place of deceit, deception and dishonesty.  My actions also must not be the results of: the spirit of fear, past feelings of rejection, anger, pride etc.

Colossians 3:17 states, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

The word clean refers to the state of …while the word purity refers to the composition of.  Both are of grave importance to our ability to function successfully in our daily walk – as well as to our relationship with the Lord and His ability to use us effectively.

A pure heart is a heart in which the Holy Spirit has free reign; where He can manifest the fruit of the spirit; and a heart that has been guarded ……and protected from diabolical or wicked guidelines.

Clean hands also refer to our works. Are our gifts being used in unpolluted and uncontaminated manners?  Are we utilizing the proper methods to properly cultivate our gifts… hence producing “clean” and holy representations? 

Today, God is calling us to a place of discipline that requires us to be more authentic than in days past.  This level of effectiveness will not just produce a “Church Service Emotional High”; but will manifest deliverance, change and “Fruit that will remain”(John 15:16)!

Are You The ONE???

“And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,”                                                                                                                                            Luke 17:15

During the past week, we here in America have focused our attentions, on the devastating results of many who have chosen, to openly display their emotions in ways which have reflected a lack of wisdom.  

It appeared that the release of such in the city of Baltimore, would further lead to a diabolical reign. Yet, we who truly know the words and the worth of prayer; knew that it was the time to seek the face of God.

God has once again revealed His favor to us and permitted the hand and the voice of the enemy to be redirected.  God has openly displayed that when we; the body of Christ began to operate in unity, solidarity and with one mind – as a true BODY; possessing no economic, racial, denominational, or any other boundaries (Genesis 11:6) … we will accomplish our desired results! 

So now is the time to remember to express our gratitude to the Lord for all of the petitions, decrees and request that He has answered.

Although thousands have prayed….. BUT - Are you the one who will go back to Him to express sincere gratitude?

Although thousands have made promises to God concerning their individual neighborhoods…… BUT - Are you the one who will adhere to the vows made?

Although thousands have viewed the tragic results and expressed feelings of sympathy and empathy….  BUT - Are you the one who will be moved with compassion to apply a concrete plan of action?

          Think about it…. Now let’s DO something about it!

                              Faith W/O Works…… Still DEAD!!!!!

Are you the one?  Are you the one?   ARE YOU THE ONE????

Note: Don’t forget National Day of Prayer

This Thursday, May 7^th

Your Test Has Been Rescheduled!

“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 more grave 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.

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” and have reaped a few benefits – but we haven’t received all that we know that God has in store for us. 

So, your test has been rescheduled!  God… as always…. is giving us an opportunity to be retested.  He has scheduled and aligned situations and circumstances in some of the areas that we have previously encountered.  Our “make-up” test will require that we focus more on our “timing”.  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… to prevent having our test to be rescheduled….AGAIN!

 “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”  Matthew 24:6

                                 This was sent to me last night by a dear friend, Apostle Lougenia Rucker.

Riots are the Language of the Unheard.......

Baltimore may be under a State of Emergency.....

But we the people of God issue an "Executive Prophetic Order" to the Kingdom of Darkness - that we will pray, bind and release a Decree - PEACE BE STILL over the City of Baltimore, MD.

We the people of God, by the kingdom power & authority invested in us by the Holy Spirit,  Pray, bind, arrest and de-escalate the angry, violent, rioting & destroying spirits of dark demons that are assigned to kill, steal, destroy & arrest every Urban City in the U.S.; we loose, activate and release order, peace, healing, justice, the replacement of burned properties and broken gates of lives, relationships, homes, communities, businesses and restoration of peace, hope, positive images, partnerships, life and justice for all.

We target our prayers at the spiritual root of the issues at hand, we plead the blood of Jesus over the National State of deaths, killings, unrest, violence, anger, police brutality, corruption, oppression, juvenile delinquency, broken and unfair systems, civic unrest, brokenness and emergencies.

We pray for the double-doors of righteousness AND the double-portion of the power of the Holy Spirit be released through supernatural angelic support and the God-ordained Family & Community Leaders to stand in the gap and make up the hedge so that the crooked places be made straight, peace be still, disciplined restored, communications be increased and expanded, gates restored, positive changes in the Law Enforcement systems and LET THE HEALING & RESTORATION BEGIN.....

“¹⁴ If My people, who are called by My name, shall humble themselves, pray, seek, crave, and require of necessity My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.” II Chronicles 7:14 AMP

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, 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); and respond to a reaction - instead of proactively thinking ahead.  We, in too many instances, become discouraged when we don’t see immediate results and then begin sabotage our own efforts with our words (II Corinthians 5:7)!

When does change occur? Does it occur when I see the manifestation of a change? Well....that answer is twofold.  Change occurs in the realm of the spirit as soon as I command it to be so.  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!

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 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!  So don’t grumble, don’t complain …. You’re in control.  So open your mouth and…..just change it. 

Don’t Judge – Just Love

“Judge not, that you be not judged. ² For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.”       Matthew 7:1 &2 (ESV)

Who are you judging?  Of course your immediate response to this question is – “No one.  I don’t judge anyone.”  But if you were to closely monitor your actions, thoughts and motives; they might reveal quite the opposite.

To judge is to arbitrate; assess; to rule on etc.  Therefore, prior to one having the ability to perform such; they must have ALL of the correct information.  They must have the truth versus the mere facts.  Far too often we view situations from our own opinions or our own knowledge of a given – which usually contains a limited, biased amount of information.  Far too often instead of loving ALL people; in EVERY situation; we – though unintentional - show expressions of love to some more readily than others.

God needs us – His ecclesia; His church – to be the living examples of the type of unconditional love that He had demonstrated while He was here.  He hasn’t called us to judge anyone – only to love them.  He hasn’t asked us to condemn anyone – only to love everyone – all of the time.  We must realize that when we are judging others – in most instances we are doing so from a residue of the spirit of pride that is still lingering within us.

Ask yourself; “What is hindering me from showing unconditional love to everyone that I encounter?”  I must remember that everyone that I encounter on a given day will also have on opinion of me.  Will I have left them with an impression that SHOWS them the love of God?  If not, why not?  Whatever the reason maybe…. “it won’t hold water!”  In other words – whatever my reasoning – God will not receive it as acceptable.  He has loved me through, in, and prior to all of my fallacies.  Now He expects me to go and to show that same love to others. 

He has shown us through His Son that His love extended beyond the boundaries of culture, race and creed (John 4).

He has shown us through His Son, that His love extended beyond the boundaries of presumptuous sins (John 8: 1-11).

He has shown us through His Son that his love extended beyond the boundaries of those who had falsely accused or wronged Him (Luke 23:34).

Therefore, whatever reason we may express – God will show us that His son has already encountered it, endured it and defeated it!  We are therefore without excuse for any valid reason for judging ANYONE.

So, I must remember:

• I can’t allow the opinions of others to keep me from reaching out to those who are in need of receiving God’s love from me.
• Ask myself – WWJD (What would Jesus do??)
• My actions must reveal the love that God has extended to me.

“….What the world truly needs is love….God’s unconditional love which knows no prejudice……but is shown to others…. by His people who have received the same!”

“…….. And love thy neighbor as thyself”.  Mark 12:31

Our Young Men Are Always Under Attack!

(Note: With the regular and seemingly ongoing inappropriate circumstances concerning so many of our men; there have been several requested for this to be reposted.  Let our focus also extend to ALL of the families who are and have been ill-treated!)

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 men; especially 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 these 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, their creativity and their dreams; in the name of Jesus. 

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 speak dissolution to every illegal relationship (and its effects) that they are (or have been) involved in.  Break up every soul tie that is not in agreement with your word, your plans and your purposes for their lives.  May they value their bodies as you do  - and therefore not submit to – nor pacifier themselves with the temporary satisfaction which accompany homosexuality, pornography, and the like.   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 seasoned 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.  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 decree that as they begin to yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit; that you will open doors of opportunity for these young men to minister to other young men.  I also decree that every door that you have not opened will be permanently sealed – never to be opened again.

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