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!

Only Empty Vessels

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

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

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

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

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

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

We must remember:

• Only empty vessels can be filled.
• Only empty vessels have the ability to totally receive all that is being poured into them. 
• Only empty vessels will have the capability to contain the proper amount wisdom needed to successfully up root the diabolical plans and plots of the enemy.
• Only empty vessels have received the revelation that they must stay on the potter’s wheel and daily cleanse themselves with the Word of God – if they are going to remain empty.
• Only empty vessels are those who were once yielded; but are now broken, freed and ready to have the anointing of God to empower them with His Presence, His Integrity and His Kingdom Authority.

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

…….. “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”    Luke 11:28 ESV

New Place – New Position

“For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”

Isaiah 43:19 (New Living Version)

The Lord has said: “My people are all in a new place and have a new position.  (You should have realized this – if you didn’t already know this; go into a period of consecration as to awaken your discernment.)

Think it not strange that you “feel” different and that the things around you appear to different. The winds have shifted again  and you are in a new place.  You are now in an enhanced dimension.  You are about to embark upon a new venture.  For some your physical location may be the familiar; however your mission has now been altered, elevated, enlarged and broaden.  Advance, proceed and press forward quickly and cautiously.  It is important that in this dimension you don’t become stagnate, idle or inactive.  Don’t look back. 

Stay freed from every entanglement that once held you captive …. the positive as well as the negative.  The enemy knows the important role that you are now in the position to assume.  He is going to attempt to keep you preoccupied with “being busy”…. doing and engaging in assignments that are positive but not God ordained for this season.

Embrace the change by altering whatever you can in the physical realm; this will assist your mind in forming new thought patterns.  If possible change something in your décor; the places where you shop or dine, the programs that you view on a regular basis… Bur change something.  Be creative. It may even be as simple as changing something in your normal daily agenda….. walk down a different street, drive a different route to or from work….. But change something!  The shift has already occurred in the realm of the spirit; therefore it won’t be difficult to transform your physical realm.   We have the mind of Christ; therefore, change is only difficult because we have been programmed to believe so. Remember Philippians 4:13!  So you are in a new place…… and you have been appointed a new position!

“Don’t expect the assurance or the acceptance of others.  As long as you have my validation, said the Lord….that’s all that matters. Your mandate has already received my stamp of approval.  Continue to guard your heart.  Stand boldly and stand strong in your authority.  It is imperative that your mind stays free.  Walk in peace, walk in power, walk in my promises … and you will continue to walk in my provision as never before.”  And it is so!!!

“May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.”  Romans 15:33

Keep the Fire Ablaze

Read: Acts 2

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

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

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

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

We must be more determined to keep our fire blazing that ever before.   We are living in a time now when the “hearts of man are beginning to wax cold” (Matthew 24:12).  Sadly to say - We are living in a time when even the Saints of God are living in fear, doubt and unbelief!  This should not be!  It is no longer acceptable to just have the “fire of the Holy Ghost.  We are now living in the time where this fire must been kicked up a notch or two and begin to blaze!   We now need a blaze within us that will cause every diabolical plan of the enemy to be of no effect on us, our families, our neighborhoods, our coworkers, etc.! 

 To maintain our spiritual fire, we must also supply Him with the three required substances. It is mandatory that we have: the oxygen (our submitted will); the fuel (supplying a proper spiritual diet) and the heat (continual line of communication with the Father).

So remember…..The Holy Spirit will assist us – but we must do our part.   We must continue to fast, pray, consecrate, walk in obedience, and live a lifestyle that is acceptable to the Lord. 

“For our God is a consuming fire.”  Hebrews 12:29

Hold On To Your Broken Pieces

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

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

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

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

Therefore…..I’ll hold to God’s unchanging hand,…… Build my hopes on things eternal…..  Keep standing on the promises of Christ my king…..  Look ever to Jesus and He’ll carry me through!!! … And above all never, never let go of my broken pieces – for they’ll glide me safely to the shore!

Go With the Flow!

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

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

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

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

Ok…. let’s refocus our minds back to thinking about electricity.  Why do people get shocked?  One of the reasons is that they interfere with, intercept, and attempt to block the flow of the electrical current. 

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s listen to the Lord. 

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

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

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

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

Faith, Faith, FAITH

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

Today we will view this multifaceted word “FAITH” from another angle.   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 the Word that we hear.  However, what so frequently occurs is that we don’t properly understand nor comprehend 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. 

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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, etc.  - No one has ever questioned a bus Driver about their credentials – we just display “natural faith” by taking a seat and riding to our destination!)

1. Little Faith (Matthew 6:30)
2. Mustard Seed Faith (Matthew 17:20 – small but potent)
3. Great Faith (Matthew 8: 8 & 10)
4. Measure of Faith (Romans 12:3)
5. 6.     Faithless Faith (John 20:27)
6. Visual Faith (Luke 5:20)

I challenge you as of today, to ask the Holy Spirit to begin to open the doorway that will lead you to receive the proper understanding of His Word.  Ask Him to erase the slate of your mind that houses any and all concepts and precepts concerning Him that have been established as a result of man-made traditions and/or erroneous teachings.  Ask the Holy Spirit to place grates over your physical gates to filter out and forbid anything from entering into your spirit that would contradict the true understanding of the Word of God.  Lastly, be ready to receive the freedom that the true understanding of God and His Word will initiate.

So do you want to unlock the pathway that leads to more faith??? – The master key is labeled.. “UNDERSTANDING”! 

F.A.I.T.H.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Completely Synchronized

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

Simply because we are quickly approaching the end of time as we now know it; it is imperative that our “clocks” are in alignment with God’s agenda for this season.

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

To be completely synchronized I must:

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

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

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

God’s “Funambulist”

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”  Hebrews 12:11

Our walk as endtime saints can benefit greatly from gleaning a little knowledge about this gift of funambulism.   Funambulism; usually referred to as tight rope walking is an art or skill that is admired by many; but acquired by few.

God has required of us some of the same characteristics that are applicable to the funambulist.  For example:

1. The tight walker must never become over confident. (Don’t get heady: II Timothy 3:1-17)

2. They must remain focused. (Philippians 2:5)

3. Must ignore the crowds of people below them.  (Acts 16:16-17)

4. Carry no baggage. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

5. Maintain balance.  (I Corinthians 6:12)

6. Be mentally sound. (Romans 12:1&2)

7. Assert discipline.  (I Corinthians 8:25)

8. Stay physically fit altering their eating habits. (Proverbs 25:27)

Since we are called to be God’s tight rope walker in the realm of the spirit, as well as in the natural realm, we can therefore avail ourselves of these attributes.

 A tight rope walker in the realm of the spirit or in the natural will only survive if they have already received the necessary preparation prior to approaching the tight rope.  Our daily regimen should have no allowance for the tolerance of anything that will distract or divert us.  Preparation is our endtime key! We must begin to prepare ourselves now for the days ahead. 

We have within us the vital components to be that skillful funambulist.  However, without the application of the above eight listed attributes, our strategies will not possess the effectiveness that will permit us to successful reign and to walk the heights that the Lord desires for us.

“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.”

Proverbs 12:1 ESV

Bitter?  Who Me?

“Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to see that no one falls back from and fails to secure God’s grace (His unmerited favor and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it”   Hebrews 12:15 (AMP)

Warriors! One of the spirits that is still found far too often in the body of Christ is the spirit of bitterness.  We are faithful in paying our tithes, studying our Word and even in compassionately caring for others.  However, have you ever stopped to consider if YOU are the host to such a vindictive, subtle spirit?  Of course – we can easily identify it in others… but let’s turn the spotlight inward for a minute to make certain that “I” am not the person that everyone else considers a “bitter person”!

Bitterness is that hateful, spiteful spirit; which causes a sourness in the heart.  It creeps in when you have been or think that you have been, maliciously wronged.   

Bitterness is a root. As with every root system, the roots are rarely seen, it's the fruit which is produced by root system that is evident. The same is true with bitterness in a person's soul. Bitterness is an underlying problem that isn’t seen; but will usually manifest on the outside – revealing what is dwelling within a person's system.  It is a hidden element that lies under the surface, and out of it springs up vindictive anger, rage and other negative emotions against others.  It is also often revealed in our responses – verbal and/or non…when we encounter adverse circumstances which are beyond our control.  People who have a root of bitterness find it easy to get upset over some of the minutest things that others are doing around them. The display of bitterness can also be compared to a hidden volcano; waiting to erupt at any moment – often without any warning.

Leaders! Bitterness is a poison!  It must not be found among us.  This demonic spirit has a nature that is deadly and must be brought into the light and addressed.  Many are still bound and are seeking to be set free from their spiritual, emotional and even physical bondages; not realizing that the spirit of bitterness has not properly been dealt with.  Bitterness is also a means for defilement.  Countless sicknesses and diseases are the fruit of the spirit of bitterness.

Bitterness is usually displayed, targeted or directed in one of three ways: towards God, towards another person, or towards one's self.

The Results of Bitterness (by Warren Doud)

• Bitterness is antisocial. A bitter person is selfish, inconsiderate of others, withdrawn from society, indifferent or adverse to conformity with conventional standards of social behavior. Even strangers avoid bitter people, Prov. 14:10. No one is happy around bitter people.
• Bitterness is a sign of the fragmented life, Jer. 2:19.
• A bitter person rejects Bible teaching. James 3:14 states, "But if you have bitter jealousy and strife, stop being arrogant and lying against the truth."
• Bitterness shows total lack of grace orientation. A bitter person does not understand the Plan of God, let alone how it affects individuals. In Job. 9:17-18, Job's complaint against God. "Why does God let this happen to me", is a statement of bitterness.
• Bitterness accompanies the sin unto death, Job. 21:25.
• Bitterness motivates complaining, Job 7:11, 10:1. People who habitually complain are bitter people; they have no self-esteem.
• Bitterness motivates gossip, Psalm 64:3
• Bitterness fragments other people’s lives. Heb 12:15, "See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God and that no root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by it may be defiled.
• Bitterness is self-induced misery, and it produces chain sinning. Bitterness is misery to others in the periphery. But two wrongs never make a right. You cannot build your happiness on someone else's unhappiness.

As we continually ask the Lord for direction, guidance and above all His wisdom, he will reveal to us any areas in our lives that have opened the door to bitterness.  Whatever the Holy Spirit brings to mind - deal with.  Don't attempt to reason it out or analyze what comes to mind - just confess it, ask for forgiveness, and accept the forgiveness the is granted to you. Refuse to harbor bitterness any longer. This major hindrance might be the one that is causing the underlying breach in your bridge!

Ants Always Anticipate & Advance

“You lazy fool, look at an ant.  Watch it closely; let it teach you a thing or two, nobody has to tell it what to do.  All summer it stores up food; at harvest it stockpiles provisions.  So how long are you going to laze around doing nothing?  How long before you get out of bed?  A nap here, a nap there, a day off here, a day off there, sit back, take it easy—do you know what comes next?
Just this: You can look forward to a dirt-poor life, poverty your permanent houseguest!”

                                                                                               Proverbs 6:6-11 (The Message Bible)

A while ago I read an article which had been written by John C. Maxwell regarding various lessons which can be learned from the ant.  He said that ants have:

A-   Attitude of Initiative (Self -motivated)

N- Nature of Integrity (Work faithfully and need no outside accountability)

T- Thirst for Industry (Labor hard & will quickly replace their anthill when it gets destroyed)

S- Source of Insight (Store provisions in summer)

When we consider the ants we can also observe that they are never intimated by obstacles or the presence of anything that they may encounter.  Whatever is placed in front of an ant will not defeat or convince it to surrender…. or become distracted from its mission.  They may be forced to discover an alternative route – however they won’t quit!  The ant is one of the smallest creatures – yet they are some of the hardest workers.

Also, the ants “make haste while it is day”.  They know that the night will come when they will not have the ability to work. (I’m not referring the physical nighttime!) We should become encouraged from the tenacity which is shown by the ant. 

The ants are always anticipating …..always in preparation for tomorrow.  The ants always keep in mind that they must advance…. That their mission is before them.  There are times when you may observe that an ant is attempting to carry a load that is twice their size – however, because they have a mindset that is motivated for success; they will always achieve their goal. 

We, like that ant, are “wired” for success.  Therefore whatever obstacles that present themselves must be conquered….. simply because the Bible says that we can do all things through God’s strength (Philippians 4:13) AND that we are MORE that conquerors (Romans 8:37)!

So, looking forward, let’s always, with great: expectation, motivation and determination have that same zeal which is found in the ants.  I challenge you today to “anticipate” and “advance”.  In other words, expect the daily “bumps in the road”; but don’t permit them to cause you to lose your focus.  Develop a mindset that because of who I am, whose I am and to whom I belong…. I am supposed to….. and I will emerge from every situation as the victor and not the victim!  Remember that a group of workers….  No matter how small……All pulling in the same direction….. all sharing the weight of the load….. Will get the job done successfully!

Your road may be long and your journey seemly all up hill; however you must keep in mind the old cliché: a winner never quits… and a quitter and wins! 

The Details Matter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer for Wisdom

Father God, in Jesus’ name, I come to you thanking 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 today I will begin the process of renewing my mind to the extent that I will 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 we not simply alter and amend every thought, but every motive, every dream and every issue of life - bringing them subject to your divine will.  Your wisdom demands integrity to the utmost in every area of life from the most minute to the most extravagant.

Your wisdom promotes and provokes us 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 or even initiate 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 only for my divine direction as I advance in this 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 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 recognize my uniqueness in you.  It is through the revelation of that uniqueness, that I am motivated.  I 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.

Father, lastly, I thank you that because I have received your revealed knowledge that wisdom is truly the principle thing;   I will strive now as never before to comprehend, to obtain and to excel in your Kingdom Principles……in your wisdom.                                 

…… In Jesus’ Name.   Amen.                                                             ©2003

 Marinating…but in What?

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

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

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

Here is a prime example.  I very, very rarely watch television programs – with the exception of the news.  However, a program had come on after the news that caught my attention. I think that it was some type of detective story. About a minute into the program; the Lord said, “You can’t watch this”.  So I immediately turned it off.  When I asked Him why, He said that the program had the potential to introduce the spirit of fear and deceit into my spirit.  He also said that if I had permitted my spirit to marinate in such for just an hour – I would have availed myself to every negative concept from the program.  Now… would I have gone to hell for watching the program?  Absolutely not.  However, like Sampson, upon my next encounter with the enemy; I might not have had the necessary wisdom, power and authority to successfully outwit and discern his various diabolical maneuvers.  If we are going to stay at least a step or two ahead of our adversary – we must be on our alert at all times.  Everything that is a “good” thing may not be a “God” thing! 

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

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

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

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