We Have Overcome - posted 3.16.23

        Scripture declares in 1 John 4:4 that each disciple of Jesus Christ is from God and is His child who has already overcome and defeated the enemy who is in the world because the Spirit who is in each disciple is greater than the spirit who is in the world. Understanding and embracing the truth that a disciple has already overcome the world will change their perspective and how one faces the challenges and issues in life. This perspective will enhance, complement, and intensify each disciple’s faith and will instill and inspire a higher level of confidence and trust in the Lord. Each disciple can rest in this truth “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith” (1 John 5:4 NKJV).

        What does we have overcome mean? To overcome means to get the better of something or someone and to conquer, defeat, overthrow, reduce, subdue, vanquish, and defeat the enemy. One who overcomes is a conqueror who smites, destroys, and crushes the enemy and secures victory. “Yet amid all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him Who loved us” (Romans 8:37 AMP). Disciples are to prevail against God’s enemies meaning to be strong, mighty, and valiant recognizing that Jesus has already defeated the enemy and all his forces, has overcome the world, and has given His people the victory. “But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57 AMP). Being in Jesus Christ every disciple has the victory and has overcome every situation, battle, and circumstance before they start.

        In order for a disciple to maintain their position as one who has overcome, you must abide in Jesus (John 15:4) which means you dwell, reside, remain, and continue in the finished work of Jesus Christ. When one abides in Christ and His finished work, you gain an understanding of the truth found Matthew 19:26 NKJV "’With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’" When Jesus declared that “’It is finished!’” (John 19:30) then God raised Jesus from the dead (Acts 10:40), gave Jesus all authority in heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18), and gave Holy Spirit which dwells within each disciple (1 Corinthians 6:19) which enabled and positioned each disciple to have an overcoming lifestyle. So, one can conclude that Jesus has overcome all and that every disciple who is in Jesus Christ has overcome all. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28 NKJV).

        In the busyness of this digital world disciples get so wrapped up in everyday living they forget to stop, reflect, and embrace that Jesus has already overcome whatever lies before them. The culture and the god of this age has required mankind to work relentlessly thus utilizing and relying on their own strength and ability to overcome the circumstances and issues in life which constantly gives way to frustration, stress, chaos, and failure. Jesus has the victory over this diversion by culture and the enemy. Therefore, each disciple needs to bring to mind that it is in being in Jesus Christ that one has overcome.

The Supremacy of Christ - posted 3.2.23

        For such a time as this. It is an absolute honor and privilege for disciples of Jesus Christ to be alive during this time and seeing and experiencing the tremendous move of God’s Spirit. The supremacy of Christ is being released throughout the world for His glory, the fulfillment of His word, and the answer of much prayer. Hebrews 1:3a AMP describes the supremacy of Jesus that “He is the sole expression of the glory of God [the Light-being, the out-raying or radiance of the divine], and He is the perfect imprint and very image of [God's] nature, upholding and maintaining and guiding and propelling the universe by His mighty word of power.” Also, the supremacy of Christ is revealed in Colossians 2:9 AMP “For in Him the whole fullness of Deity (the Godhead) continues to dwell in bodily form [giving complete expression of the divine nature].” Whenever God reveals and releases the authority, might, power, and majesty of Jesus Christ through the power of Holy Spirit, it will capture the heart of mankind and there is no force or spirit that can stop it.

        Supremacy is defined as the status or rank of being supreme, a position of power, highest in rank, paramount, sovereign, chief or of a king. Supremacy identifies the one who has the ultimate authority. Jesus in Matthew 28:18 (NKJV) declared that, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” When someone is supreme it means they are the ultimate. So, Jesus has the maximum, conclusive or decisive say over mankind, worldly affairs, and all the works of the god of this age. It is essential that every disciple understand, embrace, and affirm what the Apostle Paul declared in Colossians 1:16-17 (NAS) “for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities — all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Understanding the truth of the sovereignty of God and the supremacy of Christ is helpful for a disciple to be able to flow in worship, prayer, and God’s word and be a vessel of Holy Spirit. 

        There is a move of God among the nations. However, there are people still searching for a remedy, cure, and relief for the deterioration, decline, and division within society. Many have lost their sense of life’s purpose and destiny and have a lack of trust, belief, and hope with the perspective that the issues and challenges plaguing their lives will not change and cannot be healed and that restoration will not take place. Because of the supremacy of Christ there is always victory, good news, and hope in times of despair and hopelessness. "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26 NKJV). Scripture offers guidance for all those who are earnestly searching for answers, remedies, and healing by redirecting their attention and focus to the true source of hope and restoration. "I will lift up my eyes to the hills—from whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth" (Psalm 121:1-2 NKJV). One is also encouraged and admonished to "set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth" (Colossians 3:2 NKJV).  

       Now he (Christ) is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else--not only in this world but also the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. Ephesians 1:21-22 NLT

Breath of God - posted 2.23.23

        God’s gives life because He is the Creator and source of life. God breathed the breath of life into man who was formed of dust from the ground and man became a living being (Genesis 2:7). By the breath of God mankind not only became living beings but God gave mankind a soul which distinguished mankind from all other beings. Scripture states that there is a natural body and a spiritual body (1 Corinthians 15:44). “And so it is written, ‘The first man Adam became a living being. The last Adam became a life-giving spirit’” (1 Corinthians 15:45 NKJV). It is important to note that the first man (Adam) was from the earth and bears the characteristics and image of the earth while the second Man (Jesus Christ, Last Adam) is from heaven and bears the characteristics and image of the heavenly Man (1 Corinthians 15:47-49). Upon being born again (John 3:7) by receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, one’s spirit becomes alive and is given a new heart and new spirit (Ezekiel 36:26). Through the breath of Jesus Christ, believers receive Holy Spirit (John 20:22) who quickens the spirit man and empowers life in Spirit.

        Throughout Scripture the breath or wind of God denotes the impartation of life both in the natural man and in the spirit man. For example, on the day of Pentecost there came a sound from heaven as a rushing mighty wind and filled all in attendance with Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4). The word ‘wind’ also can be interpreted as breath which brings new life in Spirit. Another example comes from the vision of Ezekiel where he was instructed to prophesy for the four winds to come and breath upon the dead bodies so they may live again (Ezekiel 37:9).

        The breath of God will bring new life--a refreshing, an awakening. God’s breath will also revive those believers who have become weak, apathic, and lethargic in the things of God; are influenced by an unstable belief system and lack of faith; have turned away from the Lord; and are in cultural bondage and have lost hope. Upon experiencing God’s breath there will be a quickening of one’s spirit resulting in the transformation of the inner man. This transformation brings hope, a renewed belief system, and an empowered faith which enables one to draw close to God changing the inner man and shifting the focus of life to the Lord and the things above (Colossians 3:2). God’s breath is essential for every believer and the body of Christ (ekklesia) to be awakened, revived, and brought into right standing before the Lord.

        What society, culture, and people need is a fresh breath (wind) of God to be released or blown throughout the earth that will bring change in the hearts of mankind and shift the atmosphere from darkness to light. This will require believers and the body of Christ to enter into fervent prayer, have a hunger and zeal to seek the Lord (Isaiah 55:6), walk by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7), and believe for a fresh outpouring of the breath of God bringing new life to all.

         (This blog post was previously posted in September 2019.)

Kingdom of God - posted 2.2.23

        Every believer needs to have revelation, knowledge and understanding of the kingdom they serve and its power, magnitude, authority and dominion over the other kingdom. Kingdom can be defined as a sphere which designates the rule, reign, dominion, royal power and sovereignty of a king. The King of God’s kingdom is Jesus who has been given all authority in heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18). God’s kingdom is not limited by that which He created or the natural laws that He established. God makes things that are not seen into things that are seen (Hebrews 11:3) and can create from nothing and transforms what is in existence. The kingdom of God offers abundant life, provision, health, strength, and life eternal.

        The substance of a believer’s life is established by having knowledge and understanding of how God's kingdom works. His kingdom has laws, authority, dominion, and influence over the visible world. The kingdom of God is not governed by natural appetites (eating, drinking and performance) but it is righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). The Bible also states that the kingdom of God consists in power (1 Corinthians 4:20).

        There is an inherent danger when a believer who is in God's kingdom does not comprehend the enormous power, authority, timeless and limitless dominion, and eternal glory of the King. Because of the lack of knowledge the believer can be destroyed (Hosea 4:6) and caught between two kingdoms unable to serve and be devoted to either one. Without realizing and recognizing that the kingdom of God is greater than the kingdom of darkness, they will be bound, held captive, restricted, and robbed of the victorious life promised in the Word of God. This is why each believer is instructed to first seek the kingdom of God. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 NKJV

        (This blog post was previously posted in February 2016.)

In the name of Jesus - posted 1.26.23

        There is a name so powerful and full of authority that when spoken brings forth life, strength, deliverance, healing, and redemption in the lives of every person that has accepted Jesus as their Savior and Lord. The name of Jesus is that name which is greater, higher, and more powerful than any other name that exists for there is no greater name. Scripture declares in Philippians 2:9-10 NKJV “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth.” The name of Jesus strikes terror, fear, intimidation, distress, and defeat in the world culture, ruling authorities, kingdom of darkness, and all that belong to the god of this age. The ruling authorities in Acts 4:18 understood the power and authority of the name of Jesus that they called the disciples to come before them and “commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.” Scripture instructs and admonishes each disciple of Jesus Christ that “whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17 AMP).

        A disciple’s life that is vested with the rights, privileges, authority, and duties of the name of Jesus will change completely their outlook and perspective of life empowering their relationship with God and enhancing their citizenship in His kingdom. A disciple has been granted and instructed according to God’s word and His will that “whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it” (John 14:13-14 NAS). For a disciple to use the name of Jesus one must have wisdom, knowledge, and understanding of who Jesus is and His placement in God’s kingdom. “Now the main point in what has been said is this: we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a minister in the sanctuary and in the true tabernacle, which the Lord set up, not man” (Hebrews 8:1-2 NAS). 

        Every disciple of Jesus Christ has been given His name and authority to use that name according to God’s word and His will for the advancement of His kingdom. This giving of the name of Jesus and authority can be compared to granting one with a legal document called a “Power of Attorney.” A Power of Attorney grants the power and authority to act as a representative on behalf of another person. Jesus gave each disciple the power and authority to use His name as His representative on earth and in the spirit realm according to the word of God. The name of Jesus is not a religious cliché nor a buzzword to be used or exploited for personal gain or religious rhetoric to convince God to do something but to do the work of God’s kingdom. 

The Name Jesus - posted 1.19.23

        What is in a name? One’s name is an incredibly important part of identity, reputation, and worth. One’s name has deep personal significance and meaning in every aspect of life--cultural, societal, religious, family, and life connections. One’s name allows people to make decisions, judgments, assumptions, and evaluations about their life. Once a disciple understands the significance, importance, and power of a person’s name then their approach to understand, accept, and commit to the name of Jesus will be greatly enhanced. Scripture declares in Philippians 2:9-10 NKJV “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth.”

        Jesus is more than just a name for He is the Son of God (Luke 1:35) who has been granted all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). Jesus is the Word who was in the beginning with God and was God and by whom all things came into being (John 1:1-2). Jesus is the firstborn over all creation and occupies the rank and pre-eminence over all things and through Him all things consist (Colossians 1:15-17). Jesus is the cornerstone in the building of life and church where all things must be aligned (Ephesians 2:20). Jesus is the Light of the world who came into an evil and darkened world to shed the Light of life (John 8:12). Jesus is the way, truth and life in a crooked and perverse world (John 14:6). Jesus is the Word of Life whose very spoken words bring life (1 John 1:1). This is a very small example of the magnitude, quality, and immenseness of what is contained in the name Jesus. 

        What is the difference in the name of Jesus and any other name. There is power in the name of Jesus granted by God for His redemptive work and sacrifice. Scripture declares in Romans 10:13 NKJV that "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved." Acts 4:12 NAS states that “there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.” One must always remember that the power is in the name of Jesus, God incarnate, who became the gateway for salvation. The name of Jesus represents God’s authority. Jesus declares in Matthew 28:18b AMP “All authority (all power of rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.”   

Bold Faith - posted 1.12.23

        The influence and affect that God’s people have in the world and its culture is in direct portion to the boldness of their faith. God has blessed each believer with a measure of faith (Romans 12:3), and the development of that measure of faith depends on the boldness which comes from the inner man. Bold faith is the zeal, passion, and urgency one processes and expresses towards God, His Son Jesus, Holy Spirit, and His kingdom. In order to maintain a bold faith, one must invest their life in Jesus Christ, spend time in His presence and in His Word, and be filled with Holy Spirit.

        Through the ages believers have demonstrated the boldness of faith which has shaped, molded, and developed society as we know it today. Scripture declares that the creation is eagerly waiting with great anticipation and expectation for the revealing of the sons of God (Romans 8:19). With the current condition of culture and its state of affairs, there is a greater need for the revealing of the sons of God--the body of Christ and individual believers--to exercise and demonstrate a new level of bold faith in releasing God’s kingdom, changing the atmosphere, and bringing hope. Every believer must boldly declare “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible” (Hebrews 11:3 NKJV). 

        The development of a boldness in faith requires the believer to be steadfast, firm in purpose, unwavering, and established with conviction in their beliefs and God’s kingdom. When a believer is established in boldness, they will not be held by unbelief, doubt or fear but will demonstrate a life of courage, strength, and confidence in the execution of their faith. Faith requires one to have trust, assurance, confidence, and conviction in God’s word, character, nature, power, and authority. 

        To possess bold faith, one must change their approach, demeanor, attitude, and understanding of what real faith is, its power, and affect upon one’s life. Faith has been reduced in today’s culture to a weak, passive, and apathetic mindset which produces wishful thinking and a survivor mentality. Bold faith is one of the most powerful forces known to man; and when properly exercised, it will produce miraculous results. For example, in Matthew Jesus declares several reactions to one’s faith “your faith has made you well” (Matthew 9:22 NKJV), “according to your faith let it be to you” (Matthew 9:29 NKJV), and “great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire” (Matthew 15:28 NKJV). The good news is that as a follower of Jesus Christ the measure of faith allotted by God is without limit because of the life and obedience of Jesus.

        (This blog post was previously posted in August, 2018.)  

God brings peace - posted 1.5.23

        The end of a tumultuous and hectic year has come to a close. Now the dawning of a new year is here and the entry gates are wide open where possibilities are endless to serve God and expand His kingdom. Scripture admonishes every disciple of Jesus Christ to “Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courtyards with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name” (Psalm 100:4 NAS). By entering the gates of this new year with thanksgiving and the courtyards with praise every disciple will bring forth the possibility, opportunity, and ability to know and experience the God who brings peace. Scripture identifies God as Jehovah Shalom the Lord is peace (Judges 6:24). The Hebrew word Jehovah conveys the truth of existing and being known as God who said to Moses "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14). The Hebrew word Shalom speaks of peace, soundness, completeness, harmony, and absence of chaos, strife, and upheaval. 

        Peace is inherent to the very nature and presence of God. According to Scripture the peace of God transcends and exceeds all understanding of the human compacity to comprehend. When God brings peace to each disciple, one will experience the harmony and calmness of spirit, mind, and body and will have faith and trust in the power, faithfulness, mercy, and grace of God. God’s peace brings assurance that all is right in one’s internal being regardless of what the issues, forces or chaos is transpiring on the outside. “And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]” (Colossians 3:15 AMP).

        There is a saying “No God, no peace; know God, know peace.” Without peace one will not be able to achieve, develop or maintain the levels of faith, belief, and trust in one’s relationship with God. Scripture describes an incident in Mark 4:39-40 where the disciples were crossing the sea when a vicious storm developed and they became full of fear and went to Jesus for help then Jesus spoke to the storm “Peace be still” and the storm ceased to exist. When there is a storm of any kind the elements within that storm, atmosphere, and environment are fighting each other thus creating upheaval or chaos like any storm one faces in their life. When Jesus spoke to the storm “Peace be still,” He commanded the elements of that storm to come in line, agreement, and order according to God’s created plan. God’s peace is more substantive and greater than the absence of chaos, conflict, strife or battle--it takes action to restore, heal, and deliver one from the chaotic and broken situation. God’s peace is more than a state of being tranquil, calm or still--it is a state of being complete, whole, and steadfast in God. “Lord, You will ordain peace (God's favor and blessings, both temporal and spiritual) for us, for You have also wrought in us and for us all our works” (Isaiah 26:12 AMP).

        Finally, brethren, farewell (rejoice)! Be strengthened (perfected, completed, made what you ought to be); be encouraged and consoled and comforted; be of the same [agreeable] mind one with another; live in peace, and [then] the God of love [Who is the Source of affection, goodwill, love, and benevolence toward men] and the Author and Promoter of peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11 AMP 

New Year's Blessing - posted 12.29.22

        A new year is upon us where one's hopes, dreams, and aspirations can be renewed and refreshed by God's wonderful presence, promises, and purposes. The new year is the closing of the old and dawning of something new. The closing of the old year is a time to reflect, examine one’s life, and be thankful for the blessings God has granted. The opening of the new year is a time to believe for God’s best, capture the treasures of God's Word, trust in the Lord's enabling grace, commit all your ways unto the Lord, and expand one’s horizons. Everyone must realize that the best of God and His kingdom are awaiting those who seek Him. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33 NASB). This new year will be defined by the relationship one has with God, the choices and decisions that are made, and the trust one has in the Lord. 

        May God bless you with an abundant, healthy, and prosperous New Year.

        The LORD bless you, and keep you; the LORD make His face shine on you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26 NASB

        (This blog post was previously posted in December, 2017.)

Witness - posted 12.15.22

        God through His lovingkindness, mercy, and grace declares “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). For every believer this is extremely reassuring, comforting, and brings much rest in the heart and soul. One might ask what does that mean and how will God accomplish it? God will establish a witness and a testimony on earth revealing and confirming every aspect of who He is--His nature, kingdom and Word. There was only one witness that could bring such a testimony to mankind that being His Son, Jesus Christ. In Revelation 1:5, John describes Jesus Christ as the faithful witness. In Revelation 3:14, Jesus Christ is identified as the faithful and true Witness. Witness is defined as one who knows, sees, and testifies of the truth with experience, knowledge of the facts, providing information concerning those facts, and confirming the reality through testimony. Witness is one who furnishes evidence or proof by being present at an occurrence as a formal participant or spectator.

        Jesus Christ is the faithful and true witness of God the Father. Jesus was from eternity a witness to all the counsels of God, the divine nature of God, the revealed will of God, and all creation. Jesus is the standard and measurement of the testimony of all witnesses. Jesus, being the witness of God the Father to His people, declared to His disciples that He had to go away in order to send the Helper (Holy Spirit) to them as His witness (John 16:7). "But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me. And you also will bear witness, because you have been with Me from the beginning" (John 15:26-27 NKJV).

        Holy Spirit was sent to be a witness of Jesus Christ to all mankind and specifically to His people. The sufficiency of Holy Spirit’s witness comes from being a divine person, the Spirit of creation, present in the establishment of all covenants, and knowledgeable of the identity of every believer. The witness of Holy Spirit knows the heart of each believer--testifies of the truth, furnishes evidence, and confirms the reality of facts in each person’s life, issues, and circumstances. The witness of Holy Spirit enables the believer to realize the testimony of God’s Word and hearing of His voice. When a believer is caught in sin, is broken and in bondage, the witness says repent, receive life, be made whole, and be free of all bondage. When weakness takes hold, the witness says be strong. When there is unbelief, the witness says believe. When one feels guilty and rejected, the witness says you are forgiven and accepted. One must realize that Holy Spirit bears witness 'of the believer' and He also bears witness 'in the believer' and is always present in the spirit, heart and mind of each believer.

        Every believer is called to be a faithful witness of God. Whatever they do, where they go, whatever they say, and whatever they think must bear and show forth the witness of God--His redemption, goodness, compassion, righteousness, and judgment. All mankind waits earnestly for the witness and testimony of the sons of God.

        If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son. He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son. And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 1 John 5:9-12 NKJV

        (This blog post was previously posted in December, 2016.)

Who do you serve - posted 12.8.22

        The question to every disciple of Jesus Christ is--who do you serve? The answer to that question can only be answered properly from the deeps of one’s life not merely by the words one speaks. There is a strong misconception and confusion among disciples in identifying exactly who one truly serves. There is real freedom and liberty when a disciple discerns the truth of God’s word, the requirements and edicts of man or mandates of the culture. Scripture declares “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32 NAS). Who you serve is where one pledges their allegiance to, dedicates or commits their life to. A disciple’s entire identity is molded, shaped, and determined by the one who is foremost over their life whether it be God, family, occupation or government.

        Scripture in Matthew 6:24 NKJV states that "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” The definition of masters depicts and characterizes one who exercises power, supreme authority, governance, ownership, and control which also identifies the definition of a king or lord. One can only submit, pledge allegiance, and agreement to one master. “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed” (Amos 3:3 NKJV)? Currently there are many forces, governments, businesses, churches, and families seeking to be the master over the lives of God’s people. The definition of mammon is wealth, riches, earthly goods, the worldly system of materialism or the god of riches. When a disciple serves a master other than God or mammon it will lead to idolatry (Galatians 5:20) and violates the commandment of God "You shall have no other gods before Me” (Exodus 20:3 NKJV).

        In this time and culture, the god of this age has released a diabolical force upon mankind and particularly the disciples of Jesus Christ seeking dominion, control, authority, and rule over their lives. Let’s examine and identify some areas where this control, dominion, authority, and rule could exist in one’s life. A career or job in the corporate or business setting produces an all or nothing mindset and dependence requiring dominion and control over one’s life. The error is a disciple does not comprehend that God is their master and assigns His disciples to their job or business as his representative of Him to do the work as a servant unto Him. “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people” (Colossians 3:23 NAS). Some of the other areas are culture because it demands conformity to designated lifestyles and images that it presents; government requiring your obedience, dependence, and rule of your life; church that seeks to shape and mold lives that fits their agenda rather than unto Christ; and family that requires one’s focus, societal demands, and events.

        Equally powerful and distracting to a disciple’s life are the forces of mammon referred to as the god of riches which causes a thirst and passionate drive to obtain wealth, riches, and material things which are all temporary and creates a continual need for more. God’s desire is for all His disciples to live an abundant life and in prosperity maintaining the proper perspective that God is one’s master.

Shaking Heaven and Earth - posted 12.1.22

        Currently there is much discussion and questions about the conditions, upheaval, and chaos that is transpiring throughout society and culture. Everywhere one turns there is insecurity, uncertainty, disarray, lawlessness, economic instability, and shortages. Governments, media, various groups, and individuals are looking to blame someone, something or some cause to no avail looking everywhere for solutions except to God. There is a question which everyone needs to ponder, reflect, and meditate upon--in all that is transpiring in the world could this be the hand of God creating the shaking to capture mankind’s attention and turn from their wicked ways (Jeremiah 16:10-12) or fulfilling His word in preparation for an awakening, divine move of Holy Spirit or a prelude of the coming of the Lord. Scripture declares in Hebrews 12:26b-27 NKJV "’Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven.’ Now this, ‘Yet once more,’ indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain.” Scripture also declares in Luke 21:26 NKJV that “men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.”

        There needs to be a paradigm shift in how a disciple of Jesus Christ views and reacts to every shaking of the Lord and seek Him as to the reason and designed purpose. Once one embraces God’s sovereignty and accepts that all things are under His governance, authority, dominance, and dominion, then one will have the strength, wisdom, and understanding to thrive and grow. Each disciple must realize when God shakes lives, churches, culture, or society that He will partner with the disciple in whatever you do and wherever you go. Scripture declares that God “Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]” (Hebrews 13:5b AMP).

        Throughout my life’s journey and experiencing many shakings, Holy Spirit has guided, counseled, and instructed me to not focus or concentrate on what is being shaken or what people saying about the shaking or respond to what is being shaken. Holy Spirit instructed me to always focus on the shaker and His purpose. Standing on God’s word enabled me to be strong, to stand, to trust in the Lord and lean not on my own understanding (Proverbs 3:5), to understand that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called to His purpose (Romans 8:28), to rejoice always (1 Thessalonians 5:16), to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17), and to set my eyes and focus on things above, not on things on the earth (Colossians 3:2).

        When there is a shaking, a disciple can build relationship or distance themselves from God, enhance their faith or enter the realm of doubt, fortify their belief or neglect their belief, gain certainty and confidence in Jesus Christ or be uncertain or unable to stand in Jesus Christ. Every shaking of God is designed to turn, strengthen, build, and establish His people to be a life changing force for the kingdom of God.   

Give Thanks to the Lord - posted 11.24.22

        Thanksgiving day in America is about celebrating the discovery of the new land by the infinite grace of God who directed and protected those who risked their lives in obedience to God’s will to travel to a land they did not know. It was the hand of God that created a pathway to religious and spiritual freedom for a people bound by mankind’s laws, traditions, and edicts. The pilgrims upon landing on the shores of this new land were guided by God as they walked in the truth of Psalm 100:4 AMP “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and a thank offering and into His courts with praise! Be thankful and say so to Him, bless and affectionately praise His name!” Because of the pilgrims’ faithfulness, prayer, and steadfastness and God’s mercy and grace, God sent an Indian who knew the English language who was able to foster and develop a relationship between indigenous people and the pilgrims who came together for a meal which is remembered by a day set apart which we call Thanksgiving.  

       Thanksgiving is a celebration of praise, gratitude, blessing, and thanks to the God of heaven. “Give thanks to the God of heaven, for His faithfulness is everlasting” (Psalm 136:26 NAS). In the times and culture we currently are in, each disciple of Jesus Christ must “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2 NKJV). One must not allow the god of this age, mankind’s agenda and the ungodly to change the true meaning of thanksgiving as has happened in other holidays where the focus of the celebration has been changed from God to mankind’s ways, merchandising, and symbolic idolatry. 

        Each disciple needs to understand and declare the significance and importance of thanksgiving celebrating God’s will and goodness in establishing His people, presence and word in this new land for the advancement of His kingdom and glory. No matter what the quality, conditions, issues or circumstances of life one faces always remember that the God that established His people in the new land is the same God you serve today. “Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is [always] the same, yesterday, today, [yes] and forever (to the ages)” (Hebrews 13:8 AMP). Scripture instructs each one that “in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV). This Thanksgiving with all the family gatherings, the joy of the holiday, various events and wonderful food let each disciple keep their focus on the God of heaven “Oh, give thanks to the God of heaven! For His mercy endures forever” (Psalm 136:26 NKJV).  

Move of God - posted 11.17.22

        There are many who want to experience a fresh, dynamic, and lasting move of God whether it be identified as a spiritual awakening, revival or outpouring of Holy Spirit in their lives and the body of Christ. The challenge is that there is a preconceived idea or expectation on what the move of God should look like or the dynamics of that move. Oftentimes disciples of Jesus Christ today make the same mistake that God’s people made when Jesus came among them for they had a preconceived expectation as to who and what Jesus was. So many of the Jews of that day missed the entire mission and purpose of Jesus the Messiah which also continues today. Many disciples will miss the movement of Holy Spirit because it does not match what has transpired in the past or is different from what they expect. To be prepared and ready for a move of God a disciple must have an understanding of Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV “’For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,’ says the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.’” With a committed relationship with Holy Spirit and proper spiritual discernment any disciple can be prepared to flow in any move of God.

         There are symbols and elements that identify and characterize a move of God. One might question why God uses symbols to reveal the workings and activities of Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit is the reality of any movement of God and is mysterious in nature and beyond one’s comprehension and understanding. “Yet to us God has unveiled and revealed them by and through His Spirit, for the [Holy] Spirit searches diligently, exploring and examining everything, even sounding the profound and bottomless things of God [the divine counsels and things hidden and beyond man's scrutiny]” (1 Corinthians 2:10 AMP). Symbols in Scripture are illustrations and pictures that God uses to bring understanding of the realm of the Spirit. Scripture declares that a “natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14 NAS).

        In a move of God, the workings of Holy Spirit are invisible, full of grace, full of power, and yet gentle. Many disciples are looking for external signs, wonders, and miracles and fail to comprehend what God is doing in their lives. Here are several ways God will move to demonstrate His spiritual activities as He moves in the lives of disciples and the body of Christ. Holy Spirit comes as wind which illustrates His power, guidance, and the breath of life which resides in one’s being. The sound as of a mighty rushing wind at Pentecost captured the disciple’s attention that God’s Spirit was moving (Acts 2:2). “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes" (John 3:8a NKJV). Holy Spirit comes as fire which can consume someone because God is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29) yet does not destroy but purifies and demonstrates His glory. Fire comes to work deeply into the inner recesses of one’s life which is the refining process to purify and cause lasting transformation (Malachi 3:2-3). Holy Spirit comes as rain to refresh those areas of dryness, fruitlessness, and barrenness (Joel 2:23) and to restore and revitalize one’s life. Holy Spirit comes as a river so that a disciple becomes a channel of spiritual refreshment for others. “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water" (John 7:38 NKJV).

        God desires every disciple to not only experience the move of Holy Spirit but to bring forth the move of Holy Spirit to others. So, catch the wind, embrace the fire, run in the rain, dive into the river, and be the move of God.

Breath of God - posted 11.10.22

        I have seen by the Spirit of the Lord an army of God clothed and standing but with no breath. This image reflects the condition of much of the church today in America. Ezekiel speaks of the army of God physically restored and in good form but there was no breath in them. The Lord said to Ezekiel, "Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, 'thus says the Lord God: "Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live."' So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army.” (Ezekiel 37:9-10 NKJV)

        God’s breath brings life to those who are spiritually dead. For those who have received life and have fallen asleep, His breath causes them to be awakened and revived. Upon receiving God’s breath there is a quickening of the spirit resulting in the transformation of the inner man. This transformation brings hope, a renewed belief system, and an empowered faith which enables them to draw close to God changing the inner man and shifting the focus of life to the Lord and the things above (Colossians 3:2).

        When believers live their lives without the freshness of God’s breath, hardness, dryness and spiritual famine sets in. This condition will cause doubt, hopelessness, unstable belief system, and lack of faith leaving the believer in the condition of questioning the very reason and worth of serving God. Malachi 3:14 NKJV states, “You have said, 'It is useless to serve God; what profit is it that we have kept His ordinance, and that we have walked as mourners before the Lord of hosts?'” This reflects a heart condition and thinking that produces a form of godliness but denying its power (2 Timothy 3:5). 

        God’s fresh breath is essential to revive every believer and the body of Christ and to bring them into right standing before the Lord. “Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You? Show us Your mercy, Lord, and grant us Your salvation.” Psalms 85:6-7 NKJV

        These are desperate times, requiring fervent prayer, radical belief, spiritual hunger to seek the Lord while He may be found and call upon Him while He is near (Isaiah 55:6), and believe for a fresh breath of God to fill and bring life to every believer of Jesus Christ. Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon this great army of believers.

        (This blog post was previously posted in September, 2015.) 

Abiding in Christ - posted 11.3.22

        Every disciple of Jesus Christ needs to abide in and be connected to a life source that continues to bring nourishment, refreshing, strength, and stability. Jesus declares "Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:4-5 NAS). There is only one source that one can abide in that will continually bring life, provide liberty, break the shackles of bondage, enable one to walk in the Spirit, and ensure an untethered future and that source is Jesus Christ.

        To abide is to live, continue, or remain; so, to abide in Christ is to live in Him or remain in Him. When a person is saved, he or she is described as being “in Christ” (Romans 8:1; 2 Corinthians 5:17) and held secure in a permanent relationship (John 10:28–29). Maintaining a secure relationship with Christ is a lifeline of upmost importance and significance because it equips one to bear the fruit of Holy Spirit which is the basis or bedrock of a faithful life. Abiding in Christ is not a special level of Christian experience rather it is the position of all true disciples. The difference between those abiding in Christ and those not abiding in Christ is the difference between the saved and the unsaved. For a disciple abiding means more than living right, holding the proper beliefs or presenting oneself in a certain way, it is about relationship, agreement, obedience, and commitment with God through His Son Jesus Christ and by the power of Holy Spirit.

        Early in my journey with the Lord I wrestled with how to consistently be connected with and how to abide in Christ. Having a strong personality, I learned to rely on myself, my own strength, and my ability to produce results. My consistency in relying on the Lord was a constant battle of depending on Christ or retreating to my own strengths. Upon studying the Scripture and seeking for answers, again God’s word identified a life changing truth “If you keep My commandments [if you continue to obey My instructions], you will abide in My love and live on in it, just as I have obeyed My Father's commandments and live on in His love” (John 15:10 AMP). Scripture also declares in 1 John 3:24 AMP “All who keep His commandments [who obey His orders and follow His plan, live and continue to live, to stay and] abide in Him, and He in them. [They let Christ be a home to them and they are the home of Christ.] And by this we know and understand and have the proof that He [really] lives and makes His home in us: by the [Holy] Spirit Whom He has given us.” Understanding these Scriptures has enabled me to know the blessing and truth of abiding in my Lord.

        Scripture is quite clear that we are to abide in His Word. This is not speaking about abiding in biblical study and knowledge, it is however speaking about abiding in Jesus who is the Word. The result of abiding is that you will know the truth. Abiding in Jesus Christ is a continual lifestyle, and freedom will always be the result of knowing the truth.

        Whoever says he abides in Him ought [as a personal debt] to walk and conduct himself in the same way in which He walked and conducted Himself. 1 John 2:6 AMP

Words have power - posted 10.27.22

        Constructive, uplifting, powerful, and encouraging words can dramatically influence, alter or change one’s life. Words have real and authentic power which will yield life or death, light or darkness, and belief or unbelief to either oneself or someone else. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21 NKJV). When words are rooted in truth, they become a force that will invade, infiltrate, and affect the course of events in culture, society, and individual lives.

        There has been a shift in the words that disciples of Jesus Christ are speaking demonstrating that the worldly culture has influenced, invaded, and changed the condition of the hearts and minds of the body of Christ. Scripture declares in Matthew 12:34b NKJV “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” There was a time in the body of Christ where words spoken were a reflection of one’s relationship with God and words spoken would be considered to be righteous, holy, honorable, reverent, and a glory to Almighty God the great I AM. "But I tell you that for every careless word that people speak, they will give an account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:36-37 NAS).

       During an awakening, revival or any move of God the vocabulary and terminology will be adjusted to match or mirror a changed heart that reflects the workings of Holy Spirit in one’s life. The apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:29-30 NAS admonished the disciples to “Let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but if there is any good word for edification according to the need of the moment, say that, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” The word unwholesome means unhealthy, diseased, rotten or foul. Idle tales, vulgar humor, dirty jokes, cultural slang or foul language are all evidence of an unhealthy heart and soul. Scripture instructs each disciple that “Your speech must always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person” (Colossians 4:6 NAS). When a disciple has the proper relationship with Jesus and allows Holy Spirit to direct their life then the word of Christ will richly dwell within them (Colossians 3:16).

        God revealed a powerful truth in my life when He showed me that one’s life are the sum total of the words they have spoken both externally and internally. When I gave my life to Jesus the Scripture instructed me that I was given a new heart, new spirit, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit which should produce a flow of words from the inner man that are righteousness, holy, peaceful, joyful, and faith-filled. However, my life was not matching what God did in my inner man. My words contradicted and created conflict within my inner being because of the work God had done. “For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want” (Galatians 5:17 NAS). So, I examined the words that I spoke both internally to myself and externally to others and allowed Holy Spirit to sanctify my mouth and change my vocabulary. Then my words came in alignment with the internal workings of Holy Spirit. 

        …from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brothers and sisters, these things should not be this way. Does a spring send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brothers and sisters, bear olives, or a vine bear figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh. James 3:10-12 NAS 

Faith Forward - posted 10.20.22

        The forward movement of a believer’s life is coupled with one’s view of the future and the level of faith to make the future a reality. A quality life is always moving forward, is unharnessed from the past, does not stand still, and through faith captures the freshness of God’s plans and purposes. One does not need faith for what was or what is. Faith is needed for what will be and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal” (Philippians 3:13-14a NKJV).

        For a believer to have a faith forward mindset, one must understand the correlation of faith and the unseen or invisible world. Scripture declares that God framed the world through His Word so that things which are seen were not made of things which are visible (Hebrews 11:3). Scripture also captures the essence of the principle of the unseen when it declares that “God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did” (Romans 4:17 NKJV). Every believer of Jesus Christ through the activation and exercising of faith can live and operate in the realm of the unseen with the ability to pull those things into the realm of the seen. It is imperative for every believer to realize that they have been given a measure of faith (Romans 12:3). The key issue in the forward movement of one’s life is the development, establishment, and building of that measure of faith given by God.

        Each believer who desires to press forward through the gateway of the future may encounter numerous situations or challenges in their pathway which will affect, build, and establish their faith to overcome. One should take courage because the Scripture declares “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith” (1 John 5:4 NAS). There are some fundamental truths that will enlighten and encourage each believer in their walk of faith and enable one to lay hold of their future and “press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14 NAS). Faith is the reflection of what is in one’s heart, a deep conviction of an internal belief that produces corresponding action, a force that works from the inside out not the outside in, based on a promise not a problem, and the eternal hope of God’s Word being worked out as one moves forward.

          Being discerning and conscious of the atmosphere, environment, and cultural pressure in one’s life that enters the soul assists in knowing how the belief system and level of faith is affected. Having discipline as to what enters one’s soul will establish, activate, and elevate a believer’s quality and level of faith as they move forward. One must be mindful that the gates of entry to the soul are connected to what one sets their eyes on which creates mental images, allows the ears to hear which establishes patterns of thought, declares from their mouth having creative power, sets the tone of one’s life which affects the condition of the heart. It is one’s responsibility and role to understand these gate areas and how they affect your life which ultimately determine your walk with the Lord and the level of victory and success you attain with the completion of your destiny.

        (This blog post was previously posted in October, 2019.)

Be the Light - posted 10.13.22

        There is a concern in today’s culture about an evil darkness that is increasing and continual in the affairs of mankind with a devastating grip affecting every aspect of life. Many are asking is there a solution to this gross darkness affecting so many lives? God always has a solution and remedy when there is prevailing darkness that the god of this age has placed upon and against mankind. Darkness is defined as gloom, evil, sin, ignorance of divine truth, moral depravity, the absence of light, and the lack of spiritual perception. Darkness is everything earthly or demonic that is manifested in enmity against God. 

        Scripture declares “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it” (John 1:5 NLT). Darkness can only exist when there is an absence of light, is rendered powerless when light is manifested, and will flee in the presence of light. God’s permanent solution to darkness is that He sent Jesus who is the eternal light of God. Jesus declared in John 8:12 NAS, “I am the Light of the world; the one who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life." Jesus paved the way so that every disciple of His who was once in darkness can become light in the Lord and walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8).

        My personal experience in confronting darkness happened when I walked into a music store and discerned that the atmosphere was full of darkness and had a demonic presence so I retreated and immediately exited the store. Once outside Holy Spirit confronted me as to why l left the store and admonished me to go back into the store because I was the light of the Lord that would pierce the darkness. I then remembered that Scripture stated that I was a son of light (1 Thessalonians 5:5) and to walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7).

        Jesus Christ has identified, empowered, and instructed each disciple of His to be a light that will penetrate all prevailing darkness, to shine His light to a lost and dying world, and to guide all those who are covered by darkness or maneuvering their way through the darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). Currently the light of disciples has grown dim, is held in abeyance to the pressures of culture, has been withheld out of fear of exposure, displaced by one’s lifestyle or hiding under some kind of cover. Jesus asked a question “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine” (Mark 4:21 NLT). One of the largest baskets that disciples use to hide under is their church building instead of placing their light on a stand in everyday life for all to see. Darkness exists because the designated lights of Jesus are not engaging or confronting the darkness and evil that has been released upon mankind. Jesus is commissioning His disciples and the body of Christ to “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 AMP).

        While you have the Light, believe in the Light [have faith in it, hold to it, rely on it], that you may become sons of the Light and be filled with Light. John 12:36a AMP

Be Authentic - posted 10.6.22

        All creation and mankind long to experience authenticity, reality, and truthfulness in every aspect of life. Some of the major challenges that mankind faces today is that authenticity is met with skepticism, reality is shaped by uncertainty, truth is replaced with opinion, and ethics are substituted by what works. The makeup and design of any society and the structure of its culture must have at its very core authentic people whose lives are founded and rooted in truth, principles, and ethics derived from a source which is established in God, the Creator. For someone to be authentic one is genuine, credible, trustworthy, faithful to their beliefs, steadfast in their convictions, and confident in their nature no matter what issue or situation is in front of them. Authenticity is a powerful force rooted deeply and established by a genuine and bona fide source whose origin is supported, approved, and authorized by factual evidence and confirmed as true which stands contrary to what is false, fictitious, counterfeit, and deceptive lies.

        The true source or origin of authenticity that exists in life rests in God the Father who created all things, His Son Jesus Christ who redeemed all things, and Holy Spirit who sustains all things. From the beginning God the Father invested all in His Son Jesus Christ. “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist” (Colossians 1:16-17 NKJV). Currently in today’s culture mankind has adopted and embraced other sources created by the god of this age, the spirit of religion, and false teachers. These other sources have given way to destructive heresies, the philosophy of relative truth, false doctrines, the denial of and resistance to God’s creation, rebellion against foundational truths, and a decline and weakening of standards established by God.

        The deterioration of society and instability of culture has created a deep longing and craving within man’s soul for reality to overshadow uncertainty, light to penetrate darkness, truth to replace lies, and good to triumph over evil. The only authentic force that can affect and change the prevailing culture and bring healing, restoration, wholeness, and peace is the body of Christ (the ekklesia). This authentic force is believers of Jesus Christ who have been redeemed by the blood (Ephesians 1:7), adopted as sons of God (Galatians 4:5), empowered by Holy Spirit, and called and commissioned by God to bring authenticity, reality, and truthfulness into the world, its society and culture.

        There are many people who desire and attempt to live an authentic life. However, without a relationship with Jesus Christ and the indwelling of Holy Spirit, one is unable to accomplish this because there is no connection with God--His presence, Spirit or Word. It is time for every believer to allow Holy Spirit to work in their life from the inside out to mold and shape them into being an authentic force and be released into society as a bold representative and an effective witness for the kingdom of God. This can be accomplished when one puts on Christ (Galatians 3:27) and takes upon themselves the characteristics of an authentic believer. Authentic believers openly confess Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:32), walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8), obey the commands of Jesus Christ (1 John 5:3), submit to God’s Word (1 John 2:5), walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25), hear the voice of Holy Spirit (Revelation 2:17), enjoy fellowship with other believers (1 John 1:7), seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33), and love the Lord with all their heart, with all their soul, and with all their mind (Matthew 22:37).

        (This blog post was previously posted in August, 2019.)

Our inheritance - posted 9.29.22

        There is a truth that every disciple of Jesus Christ needs to accept, understand, and embrace which will absolutely enrich and revolutionize their life. “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs — heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together” (Romans 8:16-17 NKJV). The truth is that disciples of Jesus Christ are the children of God (1 John 3:1-3), sons of God (Galatians 3:26, Romans 8:14), and heirs of God (Galatians 3:29). Being an heir of God speaks of one who is entitled and inherits all that God has to offer through Jesus, His word, Holy Spirit, and His kingdom which is His inheritance to the fullness of His glory and eternal life. 

        An inheritance is something given to an heir with intrinsic value either tangible or intangible to be used in accordance with a written will. When one receives the inheritance, they have access and full authority to lay claim and use all aspects of what was given. Typically, an inheritance would involve property, investments, services, and all intangible areas such as name, family, business, and all valuables at their disposal. In the natural, many have little problem understanding, claiming, and going after any inheritance given to them. Many disciples lack an understanding that there is a spiritual and kingdom inheritance which has been given to them to live life as God has promised. Ephesians 1:11 NKJV states "In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will."

        Being a recipient of my parent’s inheritance, I discovered the blessings of receiving an inheritance. “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children” (Proverbs 13:22a NKJV). Also, I learned that this inheritance carried a responsibility to handle this tremendous gift in a manner that was worthy and honorable of their lives. Upon receiving my family inheritance, the Lord spoke to me that I have received a spiritual and kingdom inheritance and that Holy Spirit would instruct me on how to live and flow in His inheritance that would glorify and honor God. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3-4 NKJV).

        In today’s culture where one’s identity is continually being questioned it is imperative that every disciple understand their identity that they are an heir of God and have been granted and qualified to receive His inheritance. Colossians 1:12 NKJV states “giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.” God’s inheritance for each disciple means they have been given the grace and ability to become an overcomer, a conqueror and to live a victorious life. God’s inheritance also provides the ability and faith to lay hold of and take possession of God’s promises, His word, His nature, His characteristics and all rights of being a citizen of His kingdom.

        And now [brethren], I commit you to God [I deposit you in His charge, entrusting you to His protection and care]. And I commend you to the Word of His grace [to the commands and counsels and promises of His unmerited favor]. It is able to build you up and to give you [your rightful] inheritance among all God's set-apart ones (those consecrated, purified, and transformed of soul). Acts 20:32 AMP

The Glory of God - posted 9.22.22

        The glory of God is a magnificent and splendid truth that is interwoven throughout the Scriptures. “Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the LORD!” (Psalms 105:3 NKJV). The revelation and unfolding of the glory of God is crucial and essential for every disciple of Jesus Christ to live and walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25). Jesus declares that He has given the glory that the Father had given to Him to His disciples (John 17:22). God’s glory goes beyond one’s comprehension yet each disciple must give themselves to seeking the Lord and searching His word to gain knowledge and understanding of the magnitude of the glory of God.

       The glory of God has multitude of meanings, nuances, and emphasis throughout Scripture which all leads to the personhood of God--His power, majesty, attributes, perfections, and the visible splendor of His presence. The characteristics, nature, and expressions of God’s glory are tightly interwoven between God’s presence and God’s glory. Glory oftentimes is the outward expression of God’s manifested presence and power which heals, delivers, overcomes, resurrects, and transforms lives, cultures, and world events. Glory also means praise and honor being showed upon God’s magnificent name. “Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness” (Psalms 29:2 NKJV).

        In the earlier years of my journey in Jesus Christ, I did not understand how God’s glory, presence, and power would cause transformation in my life. I created undo pressure and stress in my life believing that I could change my life in order to be qualified to serve the Lord. Reading the Bible and various books, going to church, listening to many tapes by preachers and worship music, and going to many conferences did not provide the needed change in order to bring life to my inner man. Then God in his infinite mercy and grace lead me to the answer found in 2 Corinthians 3:18 AMP “And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.” From that day forward I yielded myself to Holy Spirit to transform me into His image from glory to glory. 

        The glory of God is not a feeling, an event or experience but a force or power like a spiritual tsunami of everything contained in the personhood of God. Many disciples believe that the glory of God is untouchable, unreachable, reserved for special services, people or extraordinary circumstances which is a false narrative that robs disciples of the fullness of their spiritual life and relationship with God. Through Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit, who resides within each disciple, God makes a way for His glory to be manifested in their lives for Jesus is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27) and Holy Spirit is the Spirit of glory (1 Peter 4:14).

        Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the peoples. For great is the Lord and greatly to be praised; He is to be reverently feared and worshiped above all [so-called] gods. Psalms 96:3-4 AMP 

Live an Abundant Life - posted 9.15.22

        Every individual has dreams and aspirations for an abundant life during their journey here on earth. The view and definition of an abundant life will determine the degree and quality of a true abundant life. From a worldly or cultural perspective, abundance or prosperity is monetary wealth, prestige, and the accumulation of material things and power. This worldly or cultural perspective embraces that abundance can bring life; however, in fact that perspective is wrong for it can only affect life, is temporary, limited, and in some cases destroys life. Worldly or cultural abundance will cause one to become dependent on and in bondage to the natural or material things. “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Matthew 6:24 NKJV).

        There is only one source that brings the abundant life in one’s life and that source is Jesus. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10 NAS). Abundant life refers to one who has a new heart and new spirit (Ezekiel 36:26), a renewed mind (Ephesians 4:23), the ability to live and walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25), been filled with the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19), and obtained the righteousness and peace and joy in Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).

        The Lord revealed to me the truth of abundant life during the various mission trips that I had the honor and privilege to be part of ministry and traveled to various parts of the world. In my travels I met people who know God and demonstrated a lifestyle of abundance as disciples of Jesus Christ yet did not have the natural possessions or wealth that the world would classify as abundance. These disciples’ lives were free from the trappings, bondages, and captivity of the material world and as they relied on the provision of the Lord. I learned early in my walk with the Lord that abundant life comes “By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence” (2 Peter 1:3 NLT).

        In today’s culture each disciple of Jesus Christ must learn and embrace the truth that the abundant life is the result of a relationship with God, allowing Holy Spirit to bring about transformation of the inner man, and flowing with spiritual abundance from the inside out. This does not mean that a disciple cannot have and enjoy prosperity and wealth as long as they know the source of an abundant life. When a disciple has a relationship with the Lord, they do not need to be anxious, fearful, apprehensive or concerned about material needs. Scripture declares “For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:8 NKJV).

Blessed - posted 9.8.22

        Do you know or understand the true meaning of being blessed? In today’s culture to be blessed is attached and measured by the quality and quantity of lifestyle, material possessions, financial wealth, and carefree life. If this is the cultural standard that defines one being blessed, then why after obtaining all these things there still exists such misery, depression, bondage, evil, and emptiness in so many lives? A blessed lifestyle that is based on natural sources are pleasant for a while as they are temporary, limited, and leave one wanting for more. The natural cannot produce spiritual blessings; however, the eternal can produce both spiritual and natural blessings. The only sustainable life that is or can be blessed is one that comes from the transforming power of God through Jesus Christ which changes the condition of one’s inner man.

        A blessed life in Christ is based on internal reaction and response to circumstances, events, and life issues which reflects the condition of the spirit, the content of the heart, and the soundness of the mind. Also a blessed life is defined as one who has the following characteristics--righteous; content, joyful, and victorious over a long duration of time--and is sustained by obedience to God, His Word, and His voice. Paul in Philippians 4:11 NASB exemplifies the depth of being blessed when he shares," I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am."

        With the true understanding of the word 'blessed', one can have a new appreciation of the Scriptures particularly The Beatitudes found in Matthew 5 and Luke 6. Contained in the meaning of the word 'blessed' there are descriptive words such as one who is prosperous, joyful, calm, content, and thankful which defines the inner condition available for each believer. Anyone of these descriptive words can be used to understand the meaning of The Beatitudes. For example, "Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the poor in spirit (the humble, who rate themselves insignificant), for theirs is the king of heaven (Matthew 5:3 AMP). Joyful and prosperous are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness and express a strong desire for the things of God for they shall be satisfied (Matthew 5:6). Calm and content are the peacemakers who stand against contention, strife, and war maintaining peace and unity of spirit for they shall be called sons of God (Matthew 5:9).

        The true nature of one who is blessed reflects the inner workings of Holy Spirit who equips each believer to respond, react, and handle circumstances, issues, events, and all other external forces of life with grace, honor, and glory to God. One must always remember that salvation, redemption, and justification by the Lord Jesus Christ are the foundation of a blessed life. "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the LORD does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit" (Psalms 32:1-2 NKJV).

        How blessed is the one whom You choose and bring near to You to dwell in Your courts. We will be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, Your holy temple. (Psalms 65:4 NASB)

        (This blog post was previously posted in September, 2017.)

Thoughts - posted 8.25.22

        One of the most potent, dominant, and influential forces that governs one’s life is the substance and quality of their thought life. God’s word gives instruction to disciples of Jesus Christ “do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2 NAS). Thoughts can be defined as inward reasoning, questioning, consideration, deliberation, active thinking or the outcome of mental activity. Thoughts also can be defined as the mental process of insights, ideas, options or beliefs about oneself and the world around them. Without a disciplined thought life, a disciple cannot live and walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), implement the will of God, understand the inner working of God’s word or experience God’s rest, peace and victory.

       In this culture and society one of the greatest weapons used by the god of this age is to saturate and immerse each disciple with as many thoughts about their lives and life conditions causing one to be overwhelmed and unable to manage, control or govern their thinking. Scripture gives instruction on how to combat the control or confusion of the thought life of disciples. “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:4-5 NKJV). Many disciples are losing the battle in the ability to discern their thoughts, manage the thinking process or have a stable mindset which is affecting their faith and belief system. One of the spiritual weapons God has given to disciples is His word. Hebrews 4:12 NKJV declares that “the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Understanding that God’s word exposes the innermost thoughts and the intents of the heart is crucial because there is a direct correlation between one’s heart and their thoughts. 

        Upon studying God’s word, I discovered a life changing truth which gave me a new level of fear and awe of God. The truth is that God knows all my thoughts (Psalm 94:11) and reveals the effect they have on my life. For this reason, Scripture instructs each disciple “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2 NKJV). God showed me that my thoughts were being shaped and formed by my flesh and the influence by the world. God continued to reveal to me that my identity and life was governed and controlled by my thoughts creating an unhealthy mindset. By God’s grace and Holy Spirit guidance my entire thought process was transformed according to the things above, word of God, and the renewing of my mind. The transformation of my life is that I now govern my thoughts instead of thoughts governing me. 

        The question for every disciple of Jesus Christ is do your thoughts rule and govern your life and shape your identity or do you rule and govern your thoughts?

God hears you - posted 8.18.22

        Words are one of the most powerful, life changing, and potent forces that are available to any individual or a group of individuals. When one considers the words spoken by an individual or a group of individuals oftentimes there is no consideration that God hears and responds to the words spoken. The truth is that God hears the words each one speaks and weighs the value and substance of those words. The Scriptures declare in Deuteronomy 1:34a NKJV “And the LORD heard the sound of your words, and He was angry.” God responded to the rebellious words of His people for not believing and trusting in Him. Another example is God hearing a conversation between the leaders of Israel and Moses, "Then the LORD heard the voice of your words when you spoke to me, and the LORD said to me: 'I have heard the voice of the words of this people which they have spoken to you. They are right in all that they have spoken” (Deuteronomy 5:28 NKJV). Each individual and particularly a disciple of Jesus Christ should evaluate and weigh the words that proceed from their mouth. “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer” (Psalms 19:14 NKJV).

        Knowing that God hears the words that are spoken should instill a degree of fear and responsibility of the nature, quality, and substance of the words one speaks. It crucial that every disciple of Jesus Christ knows and understands that words are creative. Scripture states in Matthew 12:37 NKJV “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned" and in Proverbs 18:21 NKJV "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit."

        My walk with the Lord took a dramatic turn when I realized that God heard the words that I spoke on a continual basis which produced the opposite and radically different results than I expected. I had a burning desire to fulfill what I believed God destined my life to be. The Lord revealed to me that I was speaking daily words of unbelief, doubt, and mistrust which produced a lack of faith. The words that I was using demonstrated the true condition of my heart. For Scripture declares that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). God also revealed to me that I was applying fleshly and cultural words to accomplish kingdom and spiritual results. “For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life” (Galatians 6:8 NKJV). By God’s grace I changed the words that came out of my mouth by addressing the condition of my heart and then I exchanged my fleshly and cultural words to spiritual and kingdom words. “Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth” (Psalms 54:2 NAS).

        In today’s world there is a major challenge for the disciples of Jesus Christ and the body of Christ to identify and evaluate the words that are being spoken. Cultural words have infiltrated disciples lives where one cannot tell the difference between the words of the world and the words of a disciple. “You are snared by the words of your mouth; you are taken by the words of your mouth” (Proverbs 6:2 NKJV). It is time for God’s people to proclaim the word of God and to speak forth and declare words of faith, belief, strength, power, authority and victory. Words that proceed from a disciple should be spiritual, full of life, and according to the word of God.

Trust God - posted 8.11.22

        This current season in today’s climate which is unsettled and chaotic provides an opportunity to build a trusting relationship with the Godhead (God, Jesus, Holy Spirit). The foundation of any relationship is based on trust. Building trust in God involves believing He is sovereign, all powerful, true to His word, fulfills His promises, faithful, truthful, and keeps His covenants. Trusting God means believing what He says about Himself, His word, the world, and His people is true and unchangeable. Trusting God is a choice and an act of one’s will to have confidence, be reliant, be dependent, be steadfast, and be committed to His ways, purposes, and will. “Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass” (Psalms 37:5 NKJV). Scripture distinguishes between those who have placed their trust in the Lord and those who have not. “It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes” (Psalms 118:8-9 NKJV).

        Currently in today’s culture there is a concerted effort to destroy, undermine, and break trust at every level of life. Truth is no longer the bedrock of stability and integrity which has produced a mistrust or no trust at all. The danger of this trust issue is that it is hindering the development of the relationship between the Lord God and His people producing unbelief, mistrust, and sin which is grieving the Spirit of the Lord. Scripture teaches to “trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV).

        Early in my walk and maturing process as a disciple of Jesus Christ I realized the futility of trusting my own ability, strength, and methods and relying on people and worldly ways. When I learned and embraced the truth about the sovereignty of God, His word, and His promises and developed a relationship with Holy Spirit then confidence, dependence, and assurance changed my belief system and empowered my faith. “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He proves to be One who rewards those who seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6 NAS). In the process of developing trust in God, I learned a principle of seeking and trusting God first no matter what the circumstances, the issues or what would be ahead for me (Matthew 6:33). “And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; for You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You” (Psalms 9:10 NKJV).

        Trusting God is a truth and principle that each disciple of Jesus Christ must acknowledge and embrace declaring that their trust in God is greater and more powerful than situations, habits, issues or something from your past. Trust in God will always lead to freedom and victory. One must proclaim “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust” (Psalms 91:2 NKJV).

        You who [reverently] fear the Lord, trust in and lean on the Lord! He is their Help and their Shield.  Psalms 115:11 AMP

God Knows - posted 7.28.22

        God knows everything and nothing is hidden from Him. Every aspect of creation is known by Him and He counts the stars in the universe and calls them all by name (Psalms 147:4). Yet He knows the minutest details of a person's life even the number of hairs one loses and gains on a daily basis. He knows the forces and elements which affect all creation and even when a sparrow falls. He knows the content of one’s heart and their thoughts even before one speaks. Every aspect of one's life is known by God--the former things that have passed, everything of the present, and what is to come.

        God's omniscience is part of His nature which is sovereign, all-knowing, and encompasses all knowledge of the past, present and future. God the Father declares the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:9) and His Son, Jesus, declares, "'I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,' says the Lord, 'who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.'" (Revelation 1:8 NKJV). Omniscience means the quality of knowing all things at once and the state of having total knowledge which is unbounded and infinite over all. God's omniscience is not restricted to any one person in the Godhead--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit--all are by nature omniscient. "For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible" and "He is before all things, and in Him all things consist" (Colossians 1:16-17 NKJV).

        God knows and chooses every person before the foundation of the world. He has formed and covered them in their mother’s womb, knew them before they were born, and determined a predestined plan for their lives. Nothing is or can be concealed from God. He searches and knows the depth of the inner man, examines the heart, and understands all the intent of the thoughts (1 Chronicles 28:9).

        O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I'm far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. Psalms 139:1-4 NLT

        Having the knowledge and understanding of God's all-knowing power (omniscience) will enable each believer to align their lives to His ways, focus on the things above, and have a new level of trust. Receiving the revelation that God knows everything and nothing is hid from Him will result in a greater degree of the fear of the Lord which will produce a wholesome, righteous, and victorious lifestyle.

        Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable. Hebrews 4:13 NLT

        (This blog post was previously posted in December, 2016.)

Activate Faith - posted 7.21.22

        There are times and seasons where God provides unique situations and events in life to build and activate one’s faith. The time and season that currently exists is a great opportunity for each disciple of Jesus Christ to build and activate their faith and be the tower of strength and encouragement to their family, church, workplace, and society. God has instructed, called, and in some cases commanded disciples to be strong and activate their faith in their daily lives. “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6 NKJV).

        It is time to wake up, stand up, and hear the instruction of God by His Spirit to activate one’s God given faith (Romans 12:3), be “rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith” (Colossians 2:7 NKJV), live by faith (Hebrews 10:38), walk by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7), and demonstrate His presence, power and strength. “Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might” (Ephesians 6:10 NAS). The influence and affect that God’s people have in the world and its culture is in direct proportion to the activation of their faith. Activated faith demonstrates the zeal, passion, and urgency one possesses and expresses toward God, His Son Jesus, Holy Spirit, and His kingdom. In order to maintain a level of faith, one must invest their life in Jesus Christ, spend time in His presence and in His word, and be filled with Holy Spirit.

        The Lord taught me early in my journey about the power of activated faith. Once I understood the sovereignty of God and “that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28 NKJV), I embraced the process of the development of my faith. I learned according to Scripture that God had given to me a measure of faith (Romans 12:3), and that God through various life experiences and events both good and bad moved me from faith to faith, that I was to examine myself as to whether I was in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5), and develop a heart condition and mindset that no matter what I faced the outcome would be according to my faith. Activated faith is a gateway to an increased reliance, dependence, confidence, and trust in the development of an everlasting relationship with God. “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us” (Romans 8:31 NKJV).

        Every disciple needs to accept and embrace every challenge, problem, situation, and issue of life as an opportunity to develop their faith, resiliency, mindset, and belief system and renew and reestablish a trusting relationship that is pleasing to God. Scripture instructs all disciples that “in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NKJV).

        But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit (Jude 20 AMP)

God's Glory in the Earth - posted 7.14.22

        There is a truth in life that is activated when the disciples of Jesus Christ declare God’s glory in their lives and in the earth. Upon such a declaration of the glory of God, one brings awareness of the sovereignty of God (Isaiah 45:18), goodness of God (Romans 2:4), faithfulness of God (1 Corinthians 1:9), splendor of His majesty (Luke 9:43), and that He reigns in heaven on in the earth (Psalms 96:10). The spiritual forces that so often dominate the cultural atmosphere, influence society, affect the affairs of mankind, shape and mold the mindset of mankind cannot prevail, stand or last when a disciple declares God’s glory in their life.

        The glory of God is intertwined and interwoven throughout Scripture which sets and forms the origin, source, content, and purpose of creation. God’s glory goes beyond one’s comprehension yet each disciple must give themselves to seek the Lord and search His word to gain knowledge and understanding of the magnitude of the glory of God. God’s glory is the essence, substance, and presence of who God is; the splendor of His personhood which is weighty, substantial or heavy; omnipotent with infinite power and authority; full of grandeur of his multitude perfections; and holiness. God demonstrates, manifests, and communicates His glory through His creation, providence, redemption, image-bearers, and acts of mercy, grace and lovingkindness.

        I have learned throughout my journey with the Lord that what I declared and spoke out of my mouth was the very thing that shaped and molded my mindset, perspective, and life actions and revealed the true level of belief and faith in my heart (Matthew 12:34). God began to reveal to me that as a disciple His glory was upon me (Isaiah 60:1), that I was to focus on the things which are above (Colossians 3:2), and that His glory would be seen upon me (Isaiah 60:2) and change completely what came out of my mouth. I learned to declare the glory of the Lord which brought the splendor of His presence and His authority and power in every aspect of my life. 

        No matter what one’s circumstances, situations, challenges or life’s prospects and whether one is in the valley or on the mountain top when one declares God’s glory the perspective of life changes. May each disciple begin to declare the glory of God in their lives and in the earth. 

        Now to Him who is able to keep you without stumbling or slipping or falling, and to present [you] unblemished (blameless and faultless) before the presence of His glory in triumphant joy and exultation [with unspeakable, ecstatic delight] — To the one only God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory (splendor), majesty, might and dominion, and power and authority, before all time and now and forever (unto all the ages of eternity). Amen (so be it). Jude 1:24-25 AMP    

Bread of Life - posted 7.7.22

        God is the creator of all and sole provider of life on the earth and eternal life. God the Father gave Jesus who is the bread of life to be that substance of life for all who come to Him. John recorded Jesus’ promise that all who freely accept Him as the bread of life will no longer hunger. Jesus said "I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst” (John 6:35 NKJV). This is the first of the “I am” statements of Jesus and it solidified His nature as fully God and fully man. “I am the bread of life” describes the way we find full satisfaction in and through Jesus alone. Scripture declares that by Jesus all things were created that are in heaven and earth, all things were created through Him and for Him, that He is before all things, and in Him all things consist (Colossians 1:16-17). Jesus being the bread of life is the sole source and substance of life for all those who come to Him on a daily basis and sustains one’s life into eternity. Throughout the Scriptures bread is symbolic of God’s life-sustaining provision. 

        Throughout my life I was taught that life is what you make it--work hard, personal development, proper nourishment, physical exercise. If you run into a problem or challenge, go to Jesus for help. I soon learned that my focus and priorities were all wrong. I was asking God to fix things and clean up my messes rather than seeking what He desired and what His will was in my life (Matthew 6:33). Then God revealed to me that He gave Jesus, the Bread of Life, to bring life, substance, quality, and meaning to all that I did and all that I am. Every disciple of Jesus Christ must understand that one must come to Jesus which means a willful act of changing their focus and priorities and seek Him first for the provision and substance of their life both natural and spiritual.

        Trusting, believing, and relying on Jesus is the source of a disciple’s spiritual existence and is how one gains a victorious, abundant, substantive, and quality life. The Bread of Life that Jesus embodies will never perish, spoil, or run out. As it was in the wilderness with the manna from heaven (Exodus 16), it is the same today. The life-sustaining bread of Jesus is meant to be received by his followers daily. “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11 NKJV). Each disciple must comprehend that “the true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world" (John 6:33 NLT).

        This is the bread which came down from heaven--not as your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever. John 6:58 NKJV

Doors - posted 6.30.22

        Access to a quality and fulfilling life is oftentimes determined by the opening or closing of doors in one's life journey. The doors of life can be described as a doorway, gateway, point of entry or exit, connection point, and communication. One’s life can be shaped, molded, and determined by which doors have been opened, entered, engaged in, surrendered to, and closed. In today’s culture there is a lack of knowledge or understanding regarding the importance of a door, what lies beyond the doorway, and how one's life will be affected upon entering the door. The pressures of life cause one to open a door out of emotion, lust, and desire that is absolutely detrimental to one’s life. Without proper discernment and understanding of doorways, the enemy of our soul can be at the doorway and cause misdirection. God and God alone gives discernment and direction as to the doorways of life.

        Scripture is very clear that no one comes to the Father except through Jesus Christ (John 14:6) because Jesus is the door and the only way to enter the kingdom of God. “So Jesus said again, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, that I Myself am the Door for the sheep...I am the Door; anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live)" (John 10:7, 9 AMP). In the parable of the Good Shepherd, Jesus refers to another as the doorkeeper or watchmen which is Holy Spirit (John 10:3). Holy Spirit is the one who opens the door to God's kingdom--His promises, benefits, purposes, and everlasting life.

        It is crucial and pivotal for every individual to know, understand, and discern the source or origin, influence, and power of each doorway. There are different sources of doors which are presented to a person in their life journey: Jesus Christ who brings the abundant everlasting life (John 10:10); Holy Spirit who gives life (John 6:63); the thief (Satan) who comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10); the flesh of man which leads to corruption (Galatians 6:8) and death (Romans 8:13). Choose carefully which door you unlock and open and which door you close. Always rely on the guidance, wisdom, and discernment of God and His Spirit. 

        (This blog post was previously posted in June, 2017.)    

God's Creation - posted 6.23.22

        Once an individual accepts and embraces God’s creation and that they are created by God then the value, worth, and substance of life is established. For those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord they will understand that one’s life is designed, created, and given by the word and breath of God with a divine purpose and destiny. Scripture declares that God chose us in Him before the foundation of the world and predetermined one’s relationship with Jesus Christ according to His will and glory (Ephesians 1:4-6). God’s original intent in creation was that each disciple of Jesus Christ would share His nature, power, and plans in the design, forming, and implementing His divine plan.

        There has been an all-out assault and aggression by the god of this age (Satan) on God’s creation raising questions as to the validity of mankind, one’s worth, viability, and a defined purpose of life. This assault is attempting to redefine the image and identity of mankind and to conform them to a humanistic mindset, the ways of man, and a godless society. Scripture declares “Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]” (Romans 12:2 AMP).

        In the earlier years of my life there were many who sought to shape and mold my life (with good intensions) and define who and what I would be and what they believed to be the best course for my life. I spent much time and resources as to who I might imitate and use as a model for my life. After all my efforts my worth, image, and identity had no foundation or substance. I sought the Lord and He revealed that my efforts and focus were all wrong. At that point God caused a paradigm shift in my spirit and soul. He showed me through His word that I was created in His image (Genesis 1:26-27); formed in my mother’s womb (Psalms 139:13); born with a purpose (Romans 8:28); and transformed by Jesus Christ, empowered by Holy Spirit, and molded into His image for His glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). Every disciple must be grounded and rooted in who they are in Christ Jesus and sealed by Holy Spirit.

        Scripture is very clear that “you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32 NKJV). Each disciple must be very clear and dogmatic as to their identity that they were created by God for His purposes and will. “For by Him [Jesus] all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him” (Colossians 1:16 NKJV). Disciples living in this age and culture must establish their spirit, soul, and body as created by God and “should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting” (Ephesians 4:14 NKJV).

        For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]. Ephesians 2:10 AMP

By My Spirit - posted 6.2.22

        Great liberty, victory, and fulfillment comes to every disciple of Jesus Christ who realizes, understands, and embraces this kingdom truth, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25 NKJV). For a disciple to live a victorious, purposeful, and meaningful life one must abide in Christ (1 John 4:13) and know that only by Holy Spirit can one achieve and accomplish such a life. To emphasize this kingdom principle and truth the Prophet Zechariah declared “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6 NKJV). The Lord declares that it is by His Spirit (Holy Spirit) that all His promises, purposes, and will are fulfilled. There is no greater might or power in existence than that of Father God through Jesus by Holy Spirit.

        Early in my spiritual journey I received a word from the Lord that I was called to the ministry and to preach His word. For years I did everything in my might and power to fulfill what God had declared to me--I positioned myself in the right places, talked with influential people, did good works, prepared myself, and petitioned the Lord relentlessly all to no avail. One day my pastor asked me what was wrong and I told him years ago God spoke to me about being in the ministry and I have done everything including knocking at many doors and nothing has happened. My pastor spoke an eternal truth to me that it is only God through His Spirit that a word from Him can be fulfilled. My pastor then told me to stop my efforts, give God my desires, lay down the call to ministry, walk away, and trust God for His promise. “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NKJV). I followed the instructions given to me and within one month I was hired by a national ministry. After 40 years of active ministry, I have experienced the truth that it is “’by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6 NKJV). “He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24 NKJV). 

        In the book of Galatians, the Apostle Paul address the church and cautions them about attempting to take what God birthed in the Spirit and implementing man’s ways, methods, works or natural means to finish what God had birth. “Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh?” (Galatians 3:3 NKJV) In today’s world with all the advancement of technology, internet, knowledge, and man-centered culture, it is very easy and natural for a disciple to attempt to complete what was birthed in the Spirit by natural means and methods. Scripture instructs a disciple to “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16 NKJV). “’By My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6 NKJV). What has begun must be completed and finished in the Spirit.  

Lifeline - posted 5.26.22

        There is a sovereign lifeline that connects each believer or group of believers to the Lord which is activated by the believer at any time. From God’s perspective this lifeline is always open, ready to engage and consistently bringing life, relationship, growth and answers. The lifeline I am referring to is prayer and Scripture instructs us to pray without ceasing (I Thessalonians 5:17). I am aware of the popular meaning of prayer which is to ask, request and entreat the Lord for something. This definition of prayer is true, however it is very simplistic, shallow and does not build relationship with God but creates a mindset that prayer is all about the believer and centered on man rather than the prevailing will of God and His divine purposes. Prayer is far more intricate, personal, and intimate. It is a lifeline of communication with the Father through Jesus Christ by the power of Holy Spirit. 

         Prayer builds relationship with God the Father which involves having the belief that He is sovereign, establishes faith and trust, causes worship and adoration toward Him, and brings forth a lifestyle of praise and thanksgiving. The results of this kind of prayer will establish a healthy heart, cause the proper words to flow from the believer's mouth, and develops a directed action and zeal with effectiveness resulting in much fruit and accomplishment in the kingdom of God.

        Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; (Colossians 4:2 NASB) ... And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive. (Matthew 21:22 NKJV)

        The lifeline of prayer in every believer must be revived along with a great awakening of corporate prayer in the church as in the book of Acts--they all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer.

        Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God     Philippians 4:6 NKJV

        (This blog post was previously posted in May, 2015.) 

Sow Seeds of Faith - posted 5.19.22

        When one sows seeds of faith in the garden of God’s kingdom, His word and promises will be fulfilled and yield much fruit. There is an irreversible law of creation which is what you sow you will reap. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Galatians 6:7 NKJV). A principle within God’s kingdom is that its operations are seed-based. To live in the fullness of God’s kingdom, one must exercise their faith and sow seeds with an expectation of reaping. Expectation can be defined as the hope, faith, anticipation, assurance, and belief that something is going to happen. A seed of faith can be defined as the word of God decreed or spoken, words spoken by a disciple of Jesus Christ into the spirit realm, the will of God being done, spiritual truth declared upon the physical or natural to bring about a desired result, and an act of serving and sowing into the lives of others. A disciple who cultivates the habit and embraces the principle of sowing seeds of faith everyday will have an abundant lifestyle. 

        Throughout my spiritual walk and journey, I learned the importance of words that are spoken and their power over one’s life. The words one speaks can be seeds that contain the power to be creative which produces life or destructive which produces death (Proverbs 18:21). I also learned that the words spoken outwardly must be the same spoken inwardly in order to become seeds of faith. I would embrace the principle of sowing words of faith, however I experienced little to no fruit. I then became aware by the grace of God that my outward declarations were contrary to my inner words declared to my being. One cannot have inner words or thoughts of doubt, unbelief, fear, and negative confessions and have the expectation that words spoken outwardly will have any power. A great example of one’s inner words or thoughts aligning with outer seeds of faith was when a father cried out to Jesus "I do believe; help my unbelief" (Mark 9:24). In order to sow seeds of faith one’s inside belief and expectation must be rooted in God’s word, empowered by Holy Spirit, and cemented in a faithful and trusted relationship with the Godhead (Father, Son and Holy Spirit).

        Sowing seeds of faith from the inside of one’s being and declaring those seeds of faith outwardly will activate the spiritual dynamics of God’s kingdom, create a spiritual atmosphere that breeds victory, establish an unbreakable belief system, and develop a relenting or dogmatic faith. Scripture declares that “without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6 NKJV). The challenge in our current culture is that people want to reap without sowing. Many disciples have a belief that one does not have to sow seeds of faith because God will just give them whatever they want. The belief that one can get something for nothing is not pleasing to God and weakens one’s walk of faith and life in the Spirit.

        [Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings. 2 Corinthians 9:6 AMP

Exalt the Lord who has established us - posted 5.5.22

        The National Day of Prayer for America began in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. This proclamation was instituted and decreed for the people of America to exalt Almighty God for who He is and what He has done, to seek God, call upon His name, and repent and return to Him with reverence and fear. “O LORD, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, for You have done wonderful things; Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth” (Isaiah 25:1 NKJV).

        The theme of this year’s National Day of Prayer is “Exalt the Lord who has established us”. The word ‘exalt’ means for one to become great or declared to be great. God shows Himself great through his word, actions, promises, mercy, and ever powerful grace. It is appropriate that God be exalted, raised high, elevated, honored, and esteemed. “Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at His holy hill; for the LORD our God is holy” (Psalms 99:9 NKJV). The word ‘established’ means to make stable or firm, to set in place, to settle, to confirm, and to bring about a lifestyle that is firm, fixed, and rooted in confidence and assurance of something or someone. For a disciple of Jesus Christ one can only be established in Him as they abide in Him (John 15:7, 10). The theme Scripture for the National Day of Prayer is Colossians 2:6-7 and describes being established in Christ. “Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude” (Colossians 2:6-7 NAS).

        The importance of this year’s theme of “Exalt the Lord who has established us” cannot be underestimated or overemphasized in its effectiveness, potency, and power in shifting the atmosphere of the world in which we live. “You are my God, and I will praise You; You are my God, I will exalt You. Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever” (Psalms 118:28-29 NKJV). I am reminded of E.M. Bound’s writing on prayer is essential. “It must never be forgotten that Almighty God rules this world. He is not an absentee God. His hand is ever on the throttle of human affairs. He is everywhere present in the concerns of time. His eyes behold, his eyelids try the children of men. He rules the world just as He rules the church by prayer."

Entering God's Rest - posted 4.28.22

        Rest is one of the most crucial, vital, and powerful elements in a person’s life. Many describe rest as a state of being refreshed, inactive, time of leisure, peace, tranquility, calm and relaxation. Rest could be one taking a vacation, ceasing from work, participating in various enjoyable activities, and setting aside time to refresh the body and soul. For one to maintain a proper and healthy lifestyle, rest is extremely important and necessary.

        God offers a special or heavenly rest to those who have fully surrendered their lives to Jesus Christ and are guided by Holy Spirit. This special or heavenly rest is something that God has prepared since the foundation of the world. It relates to ceasing from one’s own work as God did from His (Hebrews 4:4). God’s rest is released within the inner man affecting the heart and soul which brings forth His peace, calm, refreshing, stability, relief, and freedom. God's rest creates a place where the believer can be a doer of the Word (James 1:22), be a doer of the work (James 1:25), and exercise their faith by works (James 2:17). Entering God’s rest does not mean stopping activities and work but allows the believer to live and walk in the Spirit.

        All that is required for the believer is to reach out in faith, believe, and receive what God has for them and enter His rest. Scripture cautions each believer in Hebrews 4:1 that “since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it.” There are several reasons why believers would come up short in entering God's rest: God's Word does not profit them; they do not mix God's Word with faith; they are disobedient; and they harden their hearts (Hebrews 4:2-7).

        So then, there is still awaiting a full and complete Sabbath-rest reserved for the [true] people of God; for he who has once entered [God's] rest also has ceased from [the weariness and pain] of human labors, just as God rested from those labors peculiarly His own. Hebrews 4:9-10 AMP

        (This blog post was previously posted in June, 2017.)


Living by God's Sufficiency - posted 4.21.22

        The sufficiency of God transcends, rises above, goes beyond, overpasses, and exceeds anything that mankind is going to do or relies on. The benefit of seeking this all-sufficient God and building a relationship with Him will bring knowledge and understanding that God is sovereign and there is no one or anything greater than Him. The sufficiency of God is rooted and founded in His sovereignty which is absolute, immutable, irresistible, and infinite and does not change, adjust or react to any other force whether good or evil. God rules as He pleases, is not under any laws outside His nature, and is accountable only to Himself. The sufficiency of God therefore is the adequacy, assuredness, and quality of His provisions and promises that are limitless, immeasurable, and inexhaustible. “Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God” (2 Corinthians 3:5 NKJV).

        In my life’s journey the Lord has provide many opportunities to show and prove to me that my self-sufficiency is inadequate and also the insufficiency of mankind and the worldly systems. I learned by the potter’s hand (Romans 9:21) during the molding and transformation process of my life that whatever mankind or the systems of the world provided always had conditions, limitations, and no lasting value or benefit. Only through my reliance on the Godhead (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) did I learn the spiritual truth that whatever comes from God comes from within Himself and no other. God has no needs.

        Living by the sufficiency of God can only be fully experienced through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Sufficiency is the quality and state of having enough, being adequate, obtaining provision or supply, experiencing plenty, and having all your needs met. For a disciple of Jesus Christ understanding the sufficiency of God, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit is a fundamental truth and foundation for living a kingdom lifestyle and developing a belief system that causes one to grow in the faith. Embracing the sufficiency of God is an all or nothing truth. Either God has all power and strength or He does not; He is sovereign or he is not; He is the One we need to rely on or He is not; God’s word is true or it not. One must choose between the sufficiency of God or the insufficiency of mankind. “It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man” (Psalms 118:8 NKJV).

        And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity. 2 Corinthians 9:8 AMP

Resurrection and Life - posted 4.14.22

        This weekend is the celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the giving of life to all those who believe, and the provision for the Spirit of life to live inside of each believer. Giving honor to the Lord in this annual gathering of believers is wonderful and glorious. However, for the individual there must be a paradigm shift where the celebration of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ will be a daily occurrence resulting in a much deeper and stronger belief.

       In a conversation with Martha, Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?" John 11:25-26 NASU Jesus asked Martha a powerful question--"Do you believe this?" The word 'believe' in this text means to commit, trust, and entrust one’s spiritual well-being to Jesus Christ. Martha’s response was “Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world." John 11:27 NASU

        Question: DO YOU BELIEVE THIS?

        Are you committed to and entrust your entire life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ?

        (This blog post was previously posted in April, 2015.)    

Rejoice Always - posted 4.7.22

        The strength of the life of a disciple of Jesus Christ is the conviction that whatever state one finds themselves they are to always rejoice (1 Thessalonians 5:16). The Apostle Paul exhorts the body of Christ to rejoice in God at all times no matter what the challenges are, circumstances one faces (good, bad or indifferent), and issues of life or cultural forces that influence them. The word ‘rejoice’ means to delight, to give joy or to make joyful, to exult, to triumph, be thankful, and offer up a praise. Scripture actually instructs and commands disciples to rejoice, keep on rejoicing, and create a lifestyle of rejoicing and delighting in God. “Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous; and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” (Psalms 32:11 NKJV)

        The commitment of a disciple to rejoice always denotes one’s ability, willingness, and commitment to declare God’s name and His purposes and will and to release His power and presence in, through, and over all things for His glory. A rejoicing lifestyle gives one access to God, activates His kingdom, enables change within the individual, solidifies the relationship with God, influences the atmosphere, and defeats the enemy. A disciple’s spiritual life is fortified and strengthened when a disciple by their own freewill chooses to honor God and rejoice at all times no matter what lies before them. “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 NKJV)

        With my relationship with the Lord--seeking Him, studying His word, and much prayer, I came to the knowledge and understanding about the sovereignty of God and truly “that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28 NKJV) and that whatever evil is set against me, God meant it for good (Genesis 50:20). Once one realizes that God is involved in every aspect of a disciple’s life and a very present help in trouble then rejoicing in the Lord will be a declaration and acknowledgement of His hand in your life thus releasing Him to move and flow in and through your life. “This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalms 118:24 NKJV).

       Any disciple who has embraced the truth of always rejoicing will develop and demonstrate these characteristics. A rejoicing disciple will glory in the Lord, enjoy His presence, worship in Spirit and truth, demonstrate belief and faith, rise to the challenges of life, be strong in the Lord, weep without despair, know how to enjoy life, and will rejoice as an act of their will. A lifestyle of rejoicing is a choice one makes in their journey in the Lord. God works in the heart of every disciple giving the ability and reason to rejoice in Him always. “But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God; yes, let them rejoice exceedingly” (Psalms 68:3 NKJV).

        Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls — yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. Habakkuk 3:17-18 NKJV 

Deep Calls to Deep - posted 3.31.22

        There is a difference between a deep well that secures its flow of water from an inner source of supply and a shallow well that relies on an external flow of water to be filled. A shallow well takes less time to construct, not as expensive, has limited supply, greater possibility for pollution, and lower quality of water. Water that comes from a deep and properly constructed well will be cool, refreshing and satisfying to all those who drink from it. The same principle applies in the spirit realm of the kingdom of God. “But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life." (John 4:14 NLT)

        Believers who are driven in the inner man and thirst for the deep things of God must be willing to enter a process of gaining inner depth and establishing their spiritual well. In today’s culture many will not dig deep, are unwilling to pay the price, will not expend the energy or yield to Holy Spirit allowing Him to penetrate deep into their inner being and creating the foundation of spiritual relationship. Scripture declares that deep calls unto deep (Psalms 42:7a). The word 'deep' meaning a deep place or depth. One who has settled for the shallow is not in a place or have the depth, to apprehend the deep things of God. The deep things of God can only be realized and known through a continual relationship with Holy Spirit, His presence, His baptisms of Spirit and fire, and allowing His sanctifying work to transform and renew the inner man.

        But as it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him." But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, and the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. 1 Corinthians 2:9-11 NKJV

        Let us be believers who are strong and have depth, who can receive the deep revelations of God because their relationship is rooted deeply in Holy Spirit and God's Word.

        (This blog post was previously posted in March, 2016.)

God will supply all your needs - posted 3.24.22

        Entering every day with the knowledge and understanding that God knows your every need (Matthew 6:8) and will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19) brings stability, surety, and liberty in one’s life. Not only does God meet one’s need but He does it with the abundance, fullness, and bounty of His riches of which no human effort could produce. When a disciple of Jesus Christ embraces the truth of God knowing and suppling their needs, it will cause one to change their mindset and shift their focus from a worldly perspective and turn to a heavenly perspective (Colossians 3:1) thus breaking the cultural influence and control in and over their life. God is so intricately involved in a disciple’s life that He knows the plans for your life which is to prosper you, not harm you, and instill hope for the future (Jeremiah 29:11). God who is all powerful and all-knowing never lacks the will or ability to provide for those who put their trust in Him (Proverbs 3:5).

        During the process of my transformation from being a believer to one of being a disciple, God provided many opportunities to learn and trust Him for my very existence. Through many challenges, trials, tribulations, and difficult events God guided, taught, and enabled me to move beyond cultural directives and develop a true dependence on Him. When I reached a point in life where nothing was going right or working in the midst of falling into failure, I learned to seek God, looked up and grabbed his hand, and realized where my help comes from. “My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth” (Psalms 121:2 NKJV). God’s divine process of maturing me anchored the truth that God knows my needs before I do and has already provided His provision--all I had to do is believe, trust, and embrace His provision.

        Oftentimes a disciple will gravitate towards the cultural system, the ways of man, and natural solutions to meet their needs rather than seeking God for His provision. Many have not come to the understanding that God’s thoughts are not your thoughts, His ways are not your ways and His thoughts and ways are higher than yours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Man’s systems, methods, and provision for meeting needs lacks long term solutions, is insufficient, is conditional, is limited in scope, and does not address the root cause of the need. God’s provision is a life-giving solution, sufficient, covered by grace, everlasting in nature, without limits, abundant, and addressing the root cause of one’s need. Scripture declares that “God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NKJV).

        God would have each disciple to be content with what they have (Philippians 4:11) while He abundantly and richly supplies what He deems one should need and have.

Life in the Spirit - posted 3.17.22

        God has made provision for every individual to have total freedom and liberty in their life. When one accepts Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, God the Father then sends Holy Spirit to dwell within each disciple of Jesus Christ which provides them with freedom and liberty from external forces directing their life and internal pressures from their sinful nature. Scripture declares “Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Corinthians 3:17 NKJV). Life in the Spirit also equips and empowers a disciple to experience new life within God’s kingdom, spiritual giftings to enhance and empower their walk (1 Corinthians 12:4-11), and shapes and forms their character which is demonstrated through the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Scripture also instructs every disciple to not only live in the Spirit but also to walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25).

        My experience with life in the Spirit was solidified by the truth of God’s word instructing me to continually and consistently abide in Christ. When I learned to abide in Christ the power, influence, and force of the world and the god of this age could not gain excess to my inner man. Scripture declares that “if you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you” (John 15:7 NKJV) and "if you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed” (John 8:31). Abide simply means to be steadfast, dwell, remain, submit, await, and watch for and be prepared. In my life’s journey abiding in Christ, studying His word, and submitting to Holy Spirit has led to a balanced life in the Spirit causing the high places to become low and the low places to become high with God’s enabling grace.

        Scripture exhorts disciples to “set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2 NKJV). In this complex, complicated, and demanding culture that exists today many disciples are tossed between a life driven by the flesh and one of the Spirit. There is a powerful force seeking to conform disciples to this world and prevent the transformation of a renewed mind which hinders a life in the Spirit (Roman 12:2). “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Romans 8:5-6 NKJV).

        Life in the Spirit is not complicated and is attainable by every disciple. Life in the Spirit will be realized when a disciple seeks the Lord, worships Him is Spirit and truth, knows His word, and prays without ceasing.

Fresh Fire - posted 3.10.22

        When God releases a fresh fire upon His people, there is a powerful transformation of the body of Christ (the ekklesia) which causes a dramatic and major shift in the world and its culture. This transformation is consummated when the body of Christ (the ekklesia) forgets about themselves and concentrates on the one true God and embraces a heavenly perspective aligning themselves with God’s truth and Word.

        Scripture declares that Jesus will baptize you with Holy Spirit and fire (Matthew 3:11). Much emphasis has been and is placed on being baptized with Holy Spirit and what takes place once Holy Spirit is released in one’s life with the fullness of giftings, fruit, and power. The baptism of fire is divinely connected to experiencing the fullness of God and Holy Spirit baptism. To be baptized whether in water, Holy Spirit or fire means one is immersed, submerged, and saturated by the penetrating purifying presence of God exchanging one life or lifestyle for another. To be baptized with fresh fire means one is immersed, submerged, and saturated in God’s power and presence causing an awakening within one’s heart and activating their spirit enabling one to become a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1).

        One of the most captivating, powerful, and intriguing subjects in Scripture is fire which represents God’s presence, glory, power, Spirit, love, wrath, and judgement. Fire is an agent of purification, sanctification, and testing which creates a pathway to intimacy and relationship with God. Fire also is identified as God’s nature as a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29, Deuteronomy 4:24). On the day of Pentecost, fire appeared as tongues as of fire which rested on each of the disciples (Acts 2:3). Pentecost was a prime example of how God uses fresh fire to prepare and empower His people for the work in the kingdom of God. 

        The fire of God is demonstrated in many ways: the burning bush from which God spoke to Moses (Exodus 3:2-6) - by God’s manifest presence as it was in the pillar of fire at night giving His people light (Exodus 13:21) - God’s descent upon Mount Sinai in fire (Exodus 19:18) - God makes His angels spirits and His ministers a flame of fire (Psalm 104:4) - Paul describes the second coming of Christ with His mighty angels in flaming fire (2 Thessalonians 1:7) - an angel of God coming down from heaven with his face like the sun and feet like pillars of fire (Revelation 10:1) - Christ’s eyes are described like a flame of fire (Revelation 19:12).

        Nothing can be more absolute, liberating, and certain in God’s kingdom, His body (the ekklesia), and individual believers than God’s fire, presence, anointing, and power. Fresh fire is essential for each believer to be prepared as an instrument of God through the refiner’s fire as they are purified and purged as gold and silver unto righteousness (Malachi 3:2-4), each believer to live and walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25), one’s work to be revealed and tested by fire (1 Corinthians 3:13), and one’s faith to be tested by fire (1 Peter 1:7).

        (This blog post was previously posted in March, 2019.)  

The Anointing of God in Your Life - posted 3.3.22

        God has placed inside of each disciple of Jesus Christ all one needs to achieve and fulfill all of God’s purposes and plans. The anointing of God is the empowerment and activation of what God has placed within each disciple to shape their inner being according to their heavenly calling (Hebrews 3:1), develop as instruments of righteousness (Romans 6:13), and sanctify as vessels of honor (2 Timothy 2:21). Scripture declares that all disciples are anointed, “you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things” (1 John 2:20 NKJV). Each disciple should seek God to discover and unlock His anointing in their lives then allow or facilitate the flow of His anointing which will bring forth His presence and power to accomplish His will. 

        In my own life upon being regenerated and brought into God’s kingdom, I realized that God had imparted giftings and a call for my life; however, I did not know or understand how or what to do with that which was given to me. With great zeal, passion, and hunger for the things of God I tried everything I knew to do and talked to countless ministers and various individuals on how to accomplish what God imparted in me to no avail. I sought the Lord as to why I was not experiencing fulfillment in my spiritual walk. I learned that my natural or fleshly efforts would not produce a spiritual result or fulfill God’s calling. The key to developing and unlocking God’s anointing was and still is an intimate relationship with Holy Spirit for only He knows the deep things of God (1 Corinthians 2:10) and only through Him can one’s anointing be activated and released. Once my relationship with Holy Spirit was established, I gave Him free rein to change, mold, and shape my life according to the Father’s plan. God’s anointing was released in my life.

        There are many disciples who have received various giftings, God’s call, a prophetic word over their life or specific instructions from God’s word. However, because of the lack of knowledge and understanding of God’s anointing, the purpose of His anointing or how His anointing flows, they will be hindered from experiencing the full measure of spiritual fruit in their lives. Each disciple must learn that only through Holy Spirit can one unlock and release God’s anointing in their life. God’s thoughts and ways of bringing about His anointing, power, and presence are far different than the human mind can conceive. "’For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,’ says the LORD. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts’” (Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV). God’s anointing will empower, activate, and bring forth what God has placed in a disciple’s life and will flow outwardly as rivers of living water (John 7:38) affecting many lives.

        But it is God who confirms and makes us steadfast and establishes us [in joint fellowship] with you in Christ, and has consecrated and anointed us [enduing us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit]; [He has also appropriated and acknowledged us as His by] putting His seal upon us and giving us His [Holy] Spirit in our hearts as the security deposit and guarantee [of the fulfillment of His promise]. 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 AMP

Spiritual Priorities - posted 2.17.22

        For disciples of Jesus Christ understanding what matters most to God should be what matters most to them in their daily lives. Every disciple must choose what is important, has value, has benefit, has preference, has influences, and enhances their life. Spiritual priorities will determine whether one lives according to the flesh or according to Spirit (Romans 8:5), one’s mind is set on the things above or things on the earth (Colossians 3:2), one is conformed to this world or transformed by the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2), and one’s life is filled with darkness or filled with light (John 8:12). Setting the proper spiritual priorities will bring assurance and stability.

        Early in my life many priorities were taught and set by family, various individuals, educational system, business, personal self-help development, and general observations on what it takes to succeed in life. Over the years I became very disciplined in goal setting, did the right thing, treated people right, fulfilled life’s responsibilities, loved the Lord, and attended church; however, very seldom did I accomplish what I set out to do or arrive where I wanted to be. One day I discovered that I was making my plans and setting my priorities then asking God to bless them and help me succeed. My focus and attention were on my life instead of being concerned and inquiring what was on God’s heart and His plans for me. When having the wrong focus, life’s priorities will be misplaced and out of order. Looking to make an adjustment and change focus, I sought the Lord and His word. Matthew 6:33 gave me the answer which changed my life—“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” When one seeks God’s kingdom first, everything else will fall into place with the proper priority.

        There are many disciples who have been diligent and faithful in handling life issues, church attendance, work responsibility, and family life but have not progressed in the most important area of life--the spiritual side of their life. The good news is one’s progress in their spiritual life can be changed in a very short time. One must get beyond the falsehood that if one focuses and prioritizes the spiritual aspect of their life everything else will suffer or fall apart. The truth is when one sets spiritual priorities and focuses on God then He will give wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and grace to handle all the other issues of life. Spiritual priorities are established as one seeks the kingdom of God (Luke 12:31); loves the Lord with all your heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37); and trusts in the Lord with all your heart and does not lean on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Spiritual priorities are deeply rooted and solidified in life when one learns to rejoice always, to pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks, and does not quench the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19).

The Way, the Truth, the Life - posted 2.10.22

        God the Father declared, established, and made known that Jesus is the Son of God. There was a supernatural and glorified change in the appearance of Jesus when He and three disciples were together on a high mountain and the voice of God thundered from the cloud declaring that "This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him!" (Matthew 17:5 NAS). Jesus, the Son of God, set the parameters of any relationship with His Father. "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6 NAS). Acknowledging and accepting Jesus as the Son of God one can be assured that He would never speak in error and His words are absolute truth and the standard by which all other ways, truths, and lives must be measured. Every disciple of Jesus Christ can conclude that everything Jesus said about them, their life, and circumstances is true. Scripture declares that “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32 NAS). 

        In the early years of my life, I was raised in the image of a very powerful man, shaped by the opinions of others, and directed by the norms of culture which hindered me from discovering my true identity or knowing my purpose. Let me say this was all done in good intentions and what others thought I should be. It was not until I gave my life to Jesus; entered the kingdom of God; experienced a supernatural transformation; discovered the way I was to go, the truth of who I was, and the true call of God in my life that I pressed toward the upward call which God established from the beginning (Philippians 3:14). I methodically replaced the images, opinions, demands, and cultural norms with the image of Jesus Christ, the truth of God’s word, transforming power of Holy Spirit, and the standards of God’s kingdom. I must testify that discovering and applying Jesus’ way, truth, and life brought and still brings the awareness of the faithfulness of God.

        Every disciple must realize that God chose them before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4), has delivered them from the power of darkness and placed them into His kingdom (Colossians 1:13), has a designed plan for their life, has predetermined their purpose/call, has delivered them from the bondage of corruption and given them liberty. Once a disciple has understood and established that Jesus is the way then all other pathways or directions will be diminished, that Jesus is the truth then all other truths will lose power and influence, and that Jesus is the life then all death, corruption, and hindrances of a precious and eternal life will be eliminated.

        I am the Door; anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live). He will come in and he will go out [freely], and will find pasture. John 10:9 AMP

Standards of God - posted 2.3.22

        God established standards thru His word and Spirit for all of creation to direct, govern, and guide mankind and their cultures according to His will, purposes, and plan. These standards would require mankind to align, agree, follow, and conform to God’s voice, word, instructions, and commandments. Life without standards would be full of uncertainty, anxiety, confusion, mediocrity, and no direction and adrift with no anchor and blown about with worldly winds and issues.

        The quality, strength, and stability of any individual, organization or nation is established by foundational standards. Standards are established by an authority as a rule, model or principle that are used as the basis of measurement, judgement or grade of the value, merit or quality of life. Standards also include the establishment of morals, ethics, habits, guidelines, rules, and principles which aids and promotes a righteous and wholesome lifestyle. For all believers of Jesus Christ, the Bible is the standard of truth in which one views and evaluates all things according to the word of God. Every believer has the responsibility to prove everything they see and hear by the word of God and by the witness of Holy Spirit. “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard” (John 16:13 NLT). It is prudent for all believers to prove, examine, and discern all things carefully and hold onto and possess that which is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). 

        Currently in all levels of society and culture the standards that God has established to guide, direct, and assist mankind have been weakened, discarded, cast aside, and in many cases outright rejected. Standards illuminate the gateway and path which leads to life as described in Scripture, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:13-14 NAS). In today’s culture individuals, organizations, governments and even churches have chosen the broad way with no enduring, abiding, and steadfast standards. It is apparent in today’s culture that there is the same mindset and philosophy that was prevalent in Israel’s time of the judges which was “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6 NKJV). A return to unified foundational standards based on God’s word would limit and correct the self-centered approach to life for the greater good and glory of God. “There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12 NAS).

        Every believer of Jesus Christ should understand the importance of applying the proper standards in their daily activities. “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father” (Colossians 3:17 NAS) and “whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31b NAS).

        (This blog post was previously posted in October, 2018.)

Choose Your Battles - posted 1.27.22

        Life presents many battles which continually draws one’s attention, shapes their focus, and determines the quality of life. The urgency and seriousness of this time and season in the world today makes the choosing of one’s battles extremely important in order to have and maintain the proper perspective. For a disciple of Jesus Christ knowing which battle to choose will either enhance the walk in Spirit and obedience to God’s word or be diverted into accepting the ways of the flesh and worldly system. Choosing the right battle requires a close and committed relationship with God, receiving and embracing the wisdom of God from above (James 3:17), and being a doer of God’s word (James 1:23). 

        Each disciple is faced with different battle scenarios of which knowledge, discernment, and spiritual wisdom will be the guiding light and insight as to which battle one should engage in. The underlying challenge is that disciples and the body of Christ are engaged in fighting battles that God never commissioned or instructed them to fight thus making void any victory. The teaching of spiritual warfare in many cases leads disciples to focus their battle effort on Satan, his cohorts and the kingdom of darkness. Victory for a disciple in defeating the enemy and his kingdom is to focus on God, His word, and His kingdom. 

        Understanding the very nature of the battle and the various components, the source behind the battle, and the purpose or reason for the battle will assist in choosing which battle to fight. A battle is comprised of smaller or independent components which always affects the bigger vision or agenda. Battles can be defined as an encounter, conflict or struggle within one’s self, between people, various factions or forces, and between groups of people involved in a contest, struggle or controversy. The challenge for a disciple in their journey is to understand which battles will enhance their spiritual walk, development as a disciple, and alignment with God’s purpose or destiny. One must remember that the battle belongs to the Lord (1 Samuel 17:47). 

the Author and Finisher - posted 1.20.22

        The will of God for every believer in Jesus Christ is to be bold, confident, and strong in their life’s journey granted to them by God the Father and authorized and empowered by Jesus Christ. The sovereign God has given His Son Jesus Christ all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). The Word declares “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist” (Colossians 1:16-17 NKJV). Understanding the sovereignty of God and the authority, dominion, and reign of Jesus Christ is essential for each believer to elevate their faith to be bold, confident, and strong. With this understanding, believers are instructed to look to Jesus, the author and finisher of their faith (Hebrew 12:2).

        Look to Jesus and turn one's attention to Him who has gone before and is now seated at the right hand of the power of God (Luke 22:69). Each believer is to model their life according to Jesus' holy life, patience and perseverance in trials, and understanding of what He endured in order to obtain the crown and His final victory. Every believer should fix their eyes on Jesus who is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6) and who initiates and perfects their faith.

        Jesus is the Author and Finisher because He sets the example of trust, confidence, and total reliance on God the Father. Author can be defined as one who is the source, starting point, cause, origin, and leader who goes before and makes a way. The word 'author' in Hebrews 12:2 is about Jesus the pioneer, trailblazer, leader, and facilitator of one’s faith. Finisher can be defined as one who completes a project or process from the beginning. Finisher is also known as the one who makes complete, perfects, aligns, and conforms one’s life to the counsel and will of God.

        The work of the Author and Finisher is to establish one’s faith, to perfect one's faith, and transform one's life to be bold, confident, and strong in their life’s journey to accomplish all that God has planned and destined.

        (This blog post was previously posted in January, 2017.)

Declaration Power - posted 1.6.22

        Upon entering the gates of this new year, I am reminded of the Scripture “For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God” (Romans 8:19 NKJV). In this year 2022, each disciple of Jesus Christ and the body of Christ needs to awaken, arise, and embrace the responsibility of issuing a declaration of God’s presence, power, word, and kingdom into the atmosphere and culture.

        Making a declaration means to make an explicit, clear or formal statement, announcement or proclamation with the full intent of causing something to happen and the hearers to respond. Each declaration constitutes a series of words which are powerful and potent force at the disposal of a disciple. Entire countries, cultures, corporations, various institutions, denominations, churches, families, and individuals are affected by the words declared in a declaration for good or bad, success or failure, light or darkness. The Scripture declares in Proverbs 18:21 NKJV, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit." When darkness prevails and hope is diminished one can make this declaration from 1 John 1:5 NKJV, “This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.”

        Each disciple has been given the power and authority to make declarations in and about situations, issues, events, and the prevailing atmosphere. No matter what lies ahead in one’s life journey, family, career, church or destiny declaring God’s word and His will, promises, instructions, and commands will always solidify the truth, release His power, bring forth His presence, activate heavenly forces, and advance His kingdom.

        Let’s examine some examples of declarations that when spoken will encourage, embolden, and empower one’s faith, belief, and trust in God. God is able “to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us” (Ephesians 3:20 NAS) - Removing mountains and obstacles “I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20 NKJV) - Prayers are powerful and effective “whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive” (Matthew 21:22b NKJV) - Can do all things “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV) - God provides “my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19 NKJV) – No weapon “no weapon formed against you shall prosper” (Isaiah 54:17a NKJV).

        When the body of Christ arises, embraces the upward call of God, and boldly declares spiritual declarations according to God’s word and in the name of Jesus Christ, things will change and God’s kingdom will advance.

The Power of a Fresh Start - posted 12.30.21

        The ending of one year and the dawning of the new year is upon us. It is time to look and move forward with a godly perspective embracing the endless possibilities to be a witness and light of Jesus Christ, serve God, and bring forth His kingdom. One’s approach, mindset, and perspective upon entering this new year will determine the substance and quality of this up-and-coming year. Paul wrote in Philippians 3:13-14, "Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

         Due to the current condition of the world, culture, and its societies, it is paramount that each disciple of Jesus Christ discern, embrace, and activate God’s perspective for their lives. God’s perspective for each disciple and the body of Christ is dramatically different, greater, and far exceeds the desires, thoughts, and plans of mankind. “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21 NKJV). For those who abide in Jesus the possibilities are endless. Each disciple will abound through the releasing of God’s word, presence, promises, and anointing.

        Coming through two tumultuous years with a pandemic, fear, economic challenges, and chaos this coming year presents a great opportunity to activate and experience the power of a fresh start. The atmosphere and climate are right for a fresh awakening and revival by Holy Spirit resulting in the activation of the body of Christ and gathering of an abundant harvest.

        The power of a fresh start rests in the understanding that God’s creation is perpetually moving forward to fulfill and accomplish His plans, purposes, and the establishment of His kingdom. One must remember that God was in the beginning, is in the end, and is in all that which is between. Jesus Christ, the son of God, declares “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End," says the Lord, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty" (Revelation 1:8 NKJV). So, life is not standing still, the future is bright, and hope is ever present for Jesus Christ is the hope of glory.

        For a disciple to experience the power of a fresh start this coming year one will need to place their faith, belief, and hope in God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. Each disciple must move forward, walk in Holy Spirit, seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), set their mind on things above and not on things on the earth (Colossians 3:2), and trust in the Lord with all your heart (Proverbs 3 :5).

        “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

Jesus is the Gift - posted 12.23.21

        This is the season when many celebrate the giving of gifts to express their love and appreciation for those in their lives. There is a gift that was given and keeps on giving for everyone who receives, opens, and accepts it. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16 NKJV). This divine gift of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is eternal; gives everlasting life; releases light, love, grace, and mercy; and reveals the keys to a miraculous spiritual existence in the kingdom of God. One can receive and unwrap this gift of God's love fresh and new every day.

        For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies will make this happen! Isaiah 9:6-7 NLT

       May the special joys of this season and the wonderful peace God gives fill your hearts with the wonder of His love.

       (This blog post was previously posted in December, 2017.)   

Living a Life of Significance - posted 12.16.21

        Everything that God has created from the beginning has great significance. In the creation of mankind God knew each disciple of Jesus Christ before they were born which gives credence, value, and significance to your purpose and journey here on earth (Ephesians 1:4-6). Knowing and understanding that God created each disciple with a purpose, mission, and destiny gives them a basis and cause to be strengthened, persistent, determined with zeal, and resilient to run and finish the race set before them (Hebrews 12:1). The foundational truth for each disciple’s significance is ingrained and deeply rooted in their inner being and is released through their relationship with Jesus Christ. Significance becomes a quality and reality as each disciple comes into agreement with God’s word that you are created by God, a very special treasure to Him, and empowered by His grace to become what He created you to be.

        Every disciple must discover their significance which is one’s importance, quality, value, and worth from the Triune God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit). It is extremely important for one to know and understand that their significance is directly tied to God’s purpose, mission, and destiny and is sustained, developed, and established through a relationship with Jesus Christ, the workings of Holy Spirit, and being deeply rooted in God’s word. Each disciple must stand on the truth that they are the creation of God and are His workmanship. Workmanship can be defined as something created with precision, skill, and excellence by a craftsman who produces a work of art or a masterpiece. Now God being the workman or craftsmen in this case seals His masterpiece by creating one in Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:16) and providing guidance through Holy Spirit (John 16:13).

        Mankind under the influence of the god of this age has developed and advanced a secular culturalism that seeks to strip man of their identity, dignity, individualism, liberty, and freedom of expression. The agenda of this secular culturalism is to diminish or damage one’s relationship, dependence, and devotion to their God and to divide mankind into ungodly factions bringing about destructive behavior which is all designed to reduce or eliminate one’s significance. The result of this secular culturalism is that mankind has lost its way and left wanting for some degree of significance and quality of life.

        The pursuit, quest, and realization of significance in a disciple’s life is crucial for their spiritual, emotional, and social stability. The challenge for a disciple is to focus and discipline their search or quest in the right direction and the proper source. Scripture clearly instructs a disciple to first seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) and to “set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2 NKJV). One must understand that the hunger, desire or zeal to discover one’s significance is God given and can only be satisfied by Him. One’s significance is not dependent on man’s ability or resourcefulness to earn or obtain any superficial, fickle, conditional or trivial acceptance by mankind but rather its true source is the love and acceptance of God. For God created each disciple and He alone has the love, mercy, and grace to see each one finish their race and complete their journey.

        But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 1 Peter 2:9 NKJV

Everything is Going to be Alright - posted 12.9.21

        Everything is going to be alright is not a mere statement but a foundational truth for everyone who knows Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Every disciple of Jesus Christ can have the assurance that God’s mercy, grace, and faithfulness is upon them; that He has ordered their steps (Psalms 37:23); and that all things are possible to him who believes (Mark 9:23). God has provided every disciple with His strength, power, might, anointing, and authority to be a beacon of light, be a bearer of His presence, be released into culture, affect society, and accomplish all that He has set before them.  

        A disciple’s assurance that everything is going to be alright is not based on wishful thinking, the words and intent of mankind or human efforts but is founded, rooted, and confirmed in a committed relationship with Jesus Christ. The letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Colossians identifies Jesus Christ as an unshakable and powerful source in one’s life and declares that “by Him (Jesus) all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him (Jesus) and for Him (Jesus). He (Jesus) is before all things, and in Him (Jesus) all things hold together” (Colossians 1 :16-17 NAS emphasis added). Scripture also declares in Ephesians 1:22 that all things are under His feet. Understanding that it is God that holds everything together and He has given all authority in heaven and earth to His Son Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18) places Him at the center or core of one’s life.

        Having a bold and committed trust and confidence in God through Jesus Christ is paramount in a disciple’s life in order to navigate their way through the chaos, troubling waters, cultural uncertainty, and evil being perpetuated upon mankind. Throughout the Scriptures there is instructions on maintaining a victorious life with the assurance that everything will be alright in Jesus Christ. Some of these instructions are: “seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near” (Isaiah 55:6 NKJV); “trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV); "you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind” (Mathew 22:37 NKJV); cast all your cares upon Him (1 Peter 5:7); “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18); and always remember that nothing can separate a disciple from the love of God. (Romans 8:38-39).

In Remembrance of Rev. John R. DeCarmo - posted 12.2.21

        Pastor John DeCarmo went to be with his Lord on Sunday, November 21, 2021. He was our Pastor for the past 40 years and had a major role in our development as he guided us in our walk before the Lord to fulfill God’s call in our lives. Pastor DeCarmo was truly an apostle of the Lord establishing many churches, pastors, and leaders in God’s kingdom throughout the land. He was instrumental in supporting us in the planting, development, and establishment of River Valley Christian Center in Farmington CT. Pastor DeCarmo was the only one who saw and discerned God’s call, anointing, and potential of ministry in our lives. He discipled and nurtured us in our journey and throughout the various stages of our ministerial path.

        Pastor DeCarmo’s presence among us will be sorely missed. We celebrate his life and many notable words and deeds for the kingdom of God.

       Al and Karen Chapman

      Truth & Life Ministeries 

I Shall Not Be Moved - posted 11.18.21

        God has prepared and provided for every disciple of Christ a good and solid foundation so that they can be anchored on the solid rock of Christ, rooted and built up in Christ, and established in the faith (Colossians 2:6-7). The only moving that a disciple should be engaged in is to live, move, and have one’s life in Christ (Acts 17:28). Because of a disciple’s relationship with God, their life will have resolve, internal fortitude, faith, and strength to withstand the demonic forces of darkness, cultural pressures or authoritative rule and not be moved.

         The phrase “I shall not be moved” is activated when a disciple has done all one knows to do and adopts a military posture to stand (Ephesians 6:13), does not permit oneself to be seduced by false teachers (2 Peter 2:1), is not shaken in mind or troubled (2 Thessalonians 2:2), is not deceived by persuasive words (Colossians 2:4) or is not being “carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting” (Ephesians 4:14 NKJV). Every disciple is instructed to “be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:10-11 NKJV).

       Scripture identifies some great examples of people determined not to be moved. Joshua facing the enemies and opposition of his day would not be moved and declared “as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15 NKJV). Job in all his devastation would not be moved and declared “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (Job 13:15a NKJV). The Apostle Paul on his journey to Jerusalem knowing that chains and tribulations were ahead of him declared “none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24 NKJV).

        Currently in today’s climate and atmosphere there are many issues, challenges, and forces that are testing one’s belief system causing a shaking, trembling, and unsettledness that is traversing throughout the body of Christ. Scripture admonishes all disciples of Christ to “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV), to cast all your cares upon the Lord (1 Peter 5:7), to “take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13 NKJV), and believe that the battle is the LORD’s (1 Samuel 17:47). 

          Let every disciple of Christ declare that no matter what lies ahead in their life’s journey that they shall not be moved always remembering that if God is for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31), no one can be separated from the love of Christ (Romans 8:35), and no weapon formed against you shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). “I have set the LORD always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved” (Psalm 16:8 NKJV).

There is No Condemnation - posted 11.4.21

        God has made provision and provided a method to eradicate and utterly destroy condemnation that effects and governs so many lives. Condemnation can be described as an expression of disapproval and being accused, censured, judged, and pronounced guilty. In the cultural and societal arena condemnation has been embraced as a tool or weapon to influence, mold, and control the narrative and produce an agenda or manipulate lives to accomplish a designed purpose. Because of these actions the true meaning and effect of condemnation has developed into a very distorted, crippling, and debilitating force affecting the everyday life of people. Understanding the source of condemnation which can include the god of this age, mankind, cultural demands or God will dictate one’s response to condemnation. God’s word is the excellent starting point to be liberated from condemnation. Scripture declares that “there is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:1 NKJV). 

        The apostle Paul in Romans 7:21-25 describes his own sinful nature and the struggle every disciple of Jesus Christ will fight and combat within the nature of their own being. Deliverance and liberty from any internal battle are found when an individual surrenders their life to Jesus Christ and embraces a life in the Spirit which will eradicate and utterly destroy condemnation. Understanding the true origin of condemnation stems from man’s rebellion and sin against God which separated and condemned mankind and caused them to take on a fallen or fleshly nature which is enmity against God (Romans 8:7) and being condemned for eternity. The only hope for mankind is to restore one’s relationship with God through Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit who dwells within and transforms the nature of a fallen or fleshly state into a spiritual and wholesome nature which is acceptable to God.

        The knowledge, understanding, and deliverance from condemnation is twofold: First, all will be brought before the throne of God for an ultimate and decisive judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10). All those who do not believe in Jesus are already under the condemnation of God (John 3:18). However, every disciple will be found not guilty and pardoned on judgement day (Matthew 25:33-34). Second, disciples are not only free from the bondage of sin they are released from the inner turmoil, emotions, and thoughts that produce instability bringing unchecked feelings of condemnation. “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death” (Romans 8:2 NAS). For a disciple who lives in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25) will be liberated from the condemnation of flesh (Romans 8:1) for where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17).

        He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. John 3:18-19 NKJV

Connect with God - posted 10.28.21

        Every individual needs a connection that will bring life, unshackle their potential, break cultural constraints, loosen fleshly limitations, and destroy bondages that hamper one’s life. There is only one source in existence that one can connect to that enables a life of freedom and liberty and an untethered future. The only one source is God who is identified in Nehemiah’s prayer as the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant (Nehemiah 1:5). The only way for one to connect to the God of heaven is through Jesus Christ for Scripture declares that "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved" (Romans 10:13 NKJV). Once one accepts Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord there is a divine connection which is sealed by the Spirit of God who dwells within. 

        For disciples of Jesus Christ to handle the cares, issues, and complexities of life they must connect with God, embrace His word, and allow His presence to infiltrate every area of life. In God’s presence there is power, light, glory, wisdom, mercy, and grace which enables a disciple to conquer, overcome, be victorious, and experience the fullness of joy. Disciples must fully realize that connecting with God means that nothing will be impossible to them (Luke 1:37), they can do all things through Christ (Philippians 4:13), and what is impossible with people is possible with God (Luke 18:27). 

        Divine connection is enhanced and developed when each disciple focuses and gives their attention to the Lord God. Scripture instructs one to “set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2 NKJV). Each disciple must “draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8 NKJV). It is extremely important to draw near to God so who you are as a person and all you do is from God’s heavenly perspective and empowered by kingdom principles. The Lord God looks and interacts with life from a totally different perspective than anything on earth or in the natural. God has no limitations or conditions, is not influenced by corruption, and has no time restraint. God’s eternal wisdom surpasses anything obtained from the natural realm. 

        It is essential that disciples on a daily basis expend whatever effort and time needed to connect with God which will position them to receive His wisdom, enable them to live from His perspective, and activate the principles of the kingdom. Here are four principles to bring about connection with God: 1. Obedience--follow the instructions in God’s word and hear His voice (James 1:22, Hebrews 3:15); 2. Prayer—commit to supplication and pray without ceasing (Matthew 21:22, Philippians 4:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:17); 3. Unity--be in one accord with the body of Christ (Philippians 2:1-2,); 4. Faith— develop a sustainable level of faith (Luke 17:6, Mark 9:23).   

Changing the Atmosphere - posted 10.21.21

        Atmosphere is one of the most powerful and controlling forces which shapes, molds, and governs the climate which affects every aspect of one’s life, family, church, government, communities, and places of business. There are two dimensions of atmosphere one being the natural and the other is the spiritual. The natural effects the weather through air temperature, barometric pressure, humidity, and various other elements of the air. The spiritual consists of light or darkness thus creating the tone of an environment that affects the temperament, emotion, and mood of an individual, groups of people, governmental activities or a given place or territory. Both of these dimensions are invisible and contain pressure to change and adjust conditions affecting mankind whether in the air changing the weather or in the spiritual changing the culture or society. 

        The world’s climate is shaped by the spiritual atmosphere which is influenced either by God and His kingdom (Matthew 6:10) who instills life and light or by the god of this age (2 Corinthians 4:4) who is Satan, the prince of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:2) who instills death and darkness. Established atmosphere will only be changed when there is an equal or greater force that confronts the elements and causes the atmosphere to yield to its influence. One of the greatest illustrations of changing the atmosphere is found in Genesis 1:1-4 where the earth was without form, and void with darkness covering the face of the deep. Scripture then describes the shifting of this atmosphere by the Spirit of God hovering over the face of the waters in preparation of the invading words of God when He declared "’Let there be light’ and there was light.”

        In creation God entrusted mankind with the authority and responsibility of maintaining and caring for His creation which included the heavenly atmosphere that was present. Through disobedience and sin mankind surrendered that authority to the enemy who now controls and shapes the atmosphere to align and agree with the kingdom of darkness, death, and destruction. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came into the world to reverse the curse, save the lost, restore the world, and re-establish God’s authority as it was in the beginning in order to release light and break the power of darkness thus changing the prevailing atmosphere. Jesus declared that He was the light of the world (John 8:12) and that all authority has been given to Him (Matthew 28:18). Scripture declares “for by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist” (Colossians 1:16-17 NKJV).

        Through the redemption of mankind Jesus has established disciples who are filled with Holy Spirit to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14), the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13), and given authority over the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19). It is time for individual disciples and the body of Christ to realize that they are responsible for and called to change the prevailing atmosphere, clean up the spiritual environment, and become a counter culture power or force with the full authority of God’s kingdom.

Warning - posted 10.14.21

        From the beginning of time God has established His truths, standards, and laws for creation, the world--its culture and people--with a clear distinction between good and evil, light and darkness, and sweetness and bitterness. Without these clear distinctions being rooted and established in the foundation of creation, the world--its culture and people, there will be perversion, distortion, and confusion of God’s truths, standards and laws. For God’s people there is a stern warning about good, light, and sweet. “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter” (Isaiah 5:20 NAS). 

        Those who fail to distinguish between good and evil; who excuse the actions of one and reproaches the other; who mock righteousness and embrace unrighteousness; who call evil men good and good men evil; who speak in praise of drunkenness, gluttony, all carnal pleasures, and fleshly lusts; and who has contempt for godly worship and service have little relationship with God. Failure to recognize the difference between good and evil will give way to adversity, affliction, calamity, displeasure, sorrow, trouble, wickedness, and chaos instead of joyfulness, gladness, righteousness, truthfulness, peacefulness, and pleasure before the Lord God. Judgement will be upon those who blur, obscure, and diminish the clear lines of good and evil established by God. It is always good to remember that “a good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things” (Matthew 12:35 NKJV).

        Those who fail to distinguish the light from darkness and substitutes darkness for light diminishes their ability to be enlightened and receive God’s revelation and wisdom giving way to ignorance, error, false doctrine, destruction, oppression, and crime. Scripture declares “that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19 NKJV). It is crucial that every believer in Jesus Christ understand that they have the light (John 12:35), are the sons of light (1 Thessalonians 5:5), and are to walk in His light (Ephesians 5:8). To walk in the light signifies a life in Spirit, bringing forth the glory of God, being a beacon of light for the kingdom of God, and allowing the word of God to be a lamp to one’s feet and a light to their path (Psalms 119:105).

        Those who fail to distinguish between sweet and bitter reveal the true condition of their inner man and are guilty of reversing standards of morality, causing depravity of character, and weakening a sense of righteousness resulting in a hard heart and unstable soul.

        Warning. In the last days the forces of culture under the direction of the god of this age will seek to blur the lines between good and evil, light and darkness, bitter and sweet thus creating a gray zone where relativity of truth is questioned; morality, ethics, and righteousness are ignored; and political correctness governs the vocabulary which influences the atmosphere. A gray zone is an intermediate state which comes and exists between two realities and truths that has no substance, principles or standards. Believers in Jesus Christ must not reside in the gray zone of life for they will become lukewarm (Revelations 3:16), be like salt with no flavor (Matthew 5:13), be the light covered by a basket (Matthew 5:15) or have a form of godliness yet deny its power (2 Timothy 3:5).

        (This blog post was previously posted in May, 2019.)

The Power of Words - posted 10.7.21

        Words that are spoken have a unique power to bring life with rays of light or bring death with dark shadows. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21 NAS). Words are so potent that even a single one can change the destiny of one’s life. Words that proceed from the mouth will create, form, and determine the atmosphere and environment which governs and surrounds one’s life. Also, what proceeds out of a person’s mouth identifies and defines the condition and contents of that person’s heart. Scripture declares in Matthew 12:34b NAS, "For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart." A person’s life is the sum total of the words they speak in and through their life.

        Words are not merely sounds, utterances or vocal expression they are powerful and creative in nature. God spoke the world into being by the power of His words (Hebrews 11:3). Each disciple of Jesus Christ can by the Holy Spirit articulate and speak words that are creative and full of power. Without words, one’s thoughts can never become a reality for words are simply the outward expression or materialization of one’s thoughts. One’s words provide a bold confirmation of our innermost thoughts which will identify and confirm how one views daily life, careers, family, church, life issues, government, world, and most importantly themselves.

        It has become very apparent over the past several years that the words from mouths of disciples of Jesus Christ are not much different than those of the world. This is producing a double-mindedness in those who profess Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. When one accepts the Lord, they are given a new heart, new spirit, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit which should produce a flow of words from the inner man that reflect righteousness, holiness, peace, joy, and faith. Instead, we hear words spoken and seen on social media and cultural norms that demonstrates the pollution of this world and not the righteousness of the kingdom of God. This creates a conflict between what the Lord has done and is doing in a disciple’s life and how a worldly soul operates.

        Words have the power to edify, build, encourage, and bring life or they can deflate, destroy, discourage, and bring death. “The words of the wicked wait in ambush for blood, but the mouth of the upright will rescue them” (Proverbs 12:6 NAS). Words spoken from a heart that has not been changed by the Spirit of the God will be evil and full of deadly poison which breeds confusion and produces death. Words contain the power to bring life to one’s family, place of business, and church fellowship and to be a positive and constructive force in society as well as bring honor to God and define ourselves as ones who have been given a new heart, new spirit, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

       Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer. Psalms 19:14 NAS 

Unity in the Spirit - posted 9.30.21

        One of the most powerful and unstoppable forces known to mankind occurs when individuals are united with a cause or purpose and are determined to have a successful and victorious conclusion of a given matter, movement or fulfillment of a destiny. For a disciple of Jesus Christ there is a spiritual union, oneness, and unity between God and his people; Christ and the members of His body; and between each disciple being knitted together, united under one head, members of one body, being of one mind, one heart and one accord through Holy Spirit which constitutes and establishes the unity of the Spirit. Through a relationship with the Godhead (Father, Son and Holy Spirit), unity of the Spirit already exists so one does not have to create or produce unity but “be eager and strive earnestly to guard and keep the harmony and oneness of [and produced by] the Spirit in the binding power of peace” (Ephesians 4:3 AMP). The beginning of a disciple’s life contains a powerful DNA of oneness or unity with God’s Spirit that will carry and sustain through one’s life journey.

        In order to protect, preserve, and maintain the unity within one’s being, in one’s family, in one’s church, or in and throughout society, one must understand that they have been united with Christ (Romans 6:5), are alive to God in Christ Jesus (Romans 6:11), filled with God’s Spirit (Acts 4:31), called to be like-minded and in one accord (Philippians 2:2), and instructed to live and walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25). When the body of Christ is united with Christ, stands in one accord, prays, decrees, and believes for God's will to be done on earth as in heaven, it will be the most formidable, powerful, and influential force known to mankind. 

        There is a saying that has existed for years--united we stand and divided we fall. Scripture tells us “If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself that house cannot stand” (Mark 3:24-25 NKJV). Being united can be described as individuals who have come together in concert and agreement for a specific reason, cause or act to execute and accomplish a principle, ideal, purpose, goal or movement. 

        But I urge and entreat you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in perfect harmony and full agreement in what you say, and that there be no dissensions or factions or divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in your common understanding and in your opinions and judgments. 1 Corinthians 1:10 AMP   

Living Hope - posted 9.23.21

        In the current cultural condition, chaos, and upheaval that is being experienced in the lives of many people, there is an encouraging and sustaining truth contained within the Scriptures that God is the God of hope and one can abound in hope by the power of Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13). God the Father made hope available to every person who has accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3 NAS). Every disciple of Jesus Christ has been positioned into the living hope which is a force that is alive, active, vigorous, and powerful to the activation on one’s faith. The potency and sustaining power of hope is embedded and ingrained within the very core of every disciple which is Christ in you the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).

        In order to experience and activate this living hope that God has granted through Jesus Christ one must have a Scriptural understanding of hope. Hope is a living power; it is not cold, dead or happenstance but is earnest anticipation, expectation, confidence, belief, fortified trust, and optimistic state of mind that is fully focused on God, His word, His promises, and His kingdom. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5 NAS).

        As Timothy did in his day, so the disciples of today should set their hope on the living God (1 Timothy 4:10). Currently many disciples have succumbed to the negative, depressive, and destructive narrative being propagated by the news media, government, various conspiracy theories, prominent forces and institutions which has caused them to fix or place their hope in unreliable and unsustainable sources. The end result of this change of focus by placing one’s hope on mankind, man’s systems, government or forces of culture will lead to wishful thinking, destruction, depression, and the dismantling of one’s system of faith. Let’s remember that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). “Now faith is the certainty of things hoped for, a proof of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1a NAS).

        Disciples cannot survive or exist without hope. Hope keeps, retains, and secures one through painful experiences, tragedies, dreadful events, and fear of their current day and what the future holds. “[Now] we have this [hope] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whoever steps out upon it—a hope] that reaches farther and enters into [the very certainty of the Presence] within the veil” (Hebrews 6:19 AMP).

        So brace up your minds; be sober (circumspect, morally alert); set your hope wholly and unchangeably on the grace (divine favor) that is coming to you when Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is revealed. 1 Peter 1:13 AMP

The Future - posted 9.9.21

        Each individual must realize that what transpires on a daily basis in one’s life cannot be separated from their perception of tomorrow and what one believes the future holds. In order for an individual to have a meaningful and fulfilling life, one must understand that the influence of the present determines and defines the future. For the believer of Jesus Christ to have a life full of hope and purpose the eyes of their understanding must be enlightened that they may know the hope of Jesus’ calling and the glory of His inheritance (Ephesians 1:18) paving the way to a proper view of the future. The eyes of the understanding are the influence of the Spirit of wisdom, revelation, and the enlightenment to the heart and soul of man enabling one to see clearly what is transpiring in the present and what lies ahead.

        There is a truth that operates in every individual’s life and is preeminent in a believer’s life who has the indwelling of Holy Spirit. The truth is how one views and interprets the future on a daily basis will govern their life, determine their thoughts, dictate their actions, and shape their future. Scripture instructs that one should “not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself” (Matthew 6:34a NAS). Many have misinterpreted this Scripture saying that it is referring to not caring about tomorrow for tomorrow will care for itself and have ignored or dismissed any view of the future thus removing themselves from the purposes, plans, and destiny of God. Without the proper view and perspective of the future, one’s life will lack substance and stability giving way to a careless, undisciplined, and frivolous lifestyle. Daily life with no rhyme or reason gives into a mindset of carnality and a self-centered individualism that is conformed to the world, controlled by the god of this age, and leads to death and destruction.

        Having a proper perspective of the future is important for every believer in order to live a life of faith as it affects one’s pathway ahead. How one views the future will affect their daily life. What one does and how one lives on a daily basis affects and shapes their future.

        “For I know the plans I have for you” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

        (This blog post was previously posted in February, 2019.)

the Beginning and the End - posted 9.2.21

        Every form or entity of life has a beginning and an end. Life is like a book with a beginning cover and an ending cover and within the pages of that book is the substance, content, value, and purpose expressed by the writer and the intent of the author. Jesus said in Revelation 22:13 NKJV “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last." So, every individual’s life whether one recognizes it or not is contained within the pages of life with Jesus Christ as their beginning and ending cover. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him not even one thing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of mankind. And the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not grasp it” (John 1:1-5 NAS).

        Once a disciple of Jesus Christ knows and understands that their life has a beginning which is Jesus and has an end which is Jesus then their life will have a sense of worth, purpose, and destiny. Knowing that one’s life journey from the beginning to the end is under the governance of Holy Spirit to fulfill God’s predestined purpose, be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ, and be called, justified and glorified (Romans 8:29-30) will yield a life full of God’s mercy, grace, faithfulness, and lovingkindness.

        The will of God for every disciple as they travel through the times (pages) and seasons (chapters) of their life (book) is to embrace one’s significance, importance, and quality in Christ enabling them to be bold, be full of confidence, and have enhanced strength in their life’s journey granted to them by God the Father, authorized and empowered by Jesus Christ, and guided and directed by Holy Spirit. The focus of a disciple’s life needs to be on what God has called, instructed, and purposed in their current time or season of their life. “Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:34 NKJV).

        In this current age and culture there is much evidence that many disciples of Jesus Christ have turned their focus and attention from living everyday unto Christ to believing the narrative of the end times--doom and gloom, negative and depressive thoughts of darkness, fear of the anti-Christ, the mark of the beast--which is hindering their walk, weakening their faith, and destroying their hope. If the disciples of Jesus Christ would spend time studying the word of God, seeking the kingdom of God, developing their relationship with Jesus, and being transformed by Holy Spirit then their journey through the times (pages) and seasons (chapters) of their life (book) would be full of hope, light, and faith. God’s word declares “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist” (Colossians 1:16-17 NKJV).

        I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last (the Before all and the End of all). Revelation 22:13 AMP

The Transformed Life - posted 8.26.21

        A transformed life is one of the greatest and miraculous acts of God which demonstrates His love, mercy, and grace to all who accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3: 16 NAS). From the moment one gives their life to Jesus Christ, an internal transformation begins to take place from their innermost being. "Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit within you and bring it about that you to walk in My statutes, and are careful and follow My ordinances (Ezekiel 36:26-27 NAS). Whenever transformation takes place through a relationship with Jesus Christ, one will receive new life and hope because they become a new creation--old things passed away and all things become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).

        Every individual will be faced with two opposing forces that will shape and mold their life and determine the quality, direction, and longevity of life. First is a life that is conformed meaning to bring into compliance with prevailing standards, attitudes, and practices of a group or society. Second is a life that is transformed meaning to radically change one’s condition, nature, character, disposition, and heart and to reshape one’s being according to the will of God and His word.

        First, there are the external forces of the world, its culture, and the god of this age which shape, mold, train, and indoctrinate mankind’s mindset to be conformed to this world (Romans 12:2). Any individual who has been conformed will not have a solid foundation or standard that can be trusted to place one’s hopes, dreams, and the fulfillment of life upon. The external forces of the world will only produce an uncertainty or a battle within one’s life where there is conformity of issues, circumstances or events creating an image or mindset which is contrary to God’s word.

        Second, there is a transformed life from the inside out and secured by the Creator with everlasting life and a firm foundation with Jesus Christ as the cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6-7). God establishes and begins the process of a transformed life by Holy Spirit who dwells within each disciple (1 Corinthians 3:16), establishing one as new creation (2 Corinthian 5:17), and instilling hope as an anchor of one’s soul (Hebrews 6:18-19). To be transformed is to be brought into the likeness and image of the Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). God is always looking for a disciple that is willing to be transformed into a vessel that can be used and stand between heaven and earth. History is rich with people who had the desire, passion, and willingness to allow Holy Spirit to transform their lives for the advancement of the kingdom of God.

        Transformation is evident in one's life when they receive, embrace, and apply the identity God has created which agrees with and enables one’s calling, purpose, and destiny. There are some distinct characteristics of a transformed life in Christ that demonstrate a life which is loyal, committed, and surrendered to the will of God and His kingdom. Some of these characteristics are demonstrated by a life full of trust, peace, rest, humility, righteousness, mercy, grace, belief, and faith.

        Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]. Romans 12:2 AMP

Called to Pray - posted 8.19.21

        God made provision and created a method of communication that builds and develops a relationship and connects each individual to Him. This provision and powerful method is prayer. Prayer is the means by which one enters into conversation, communion, and fellowship with the God the Father, Jesus His Son and Holy Spirit to build relationship and establish trust in the sovereign God of heaven. 

        Every believer of Jesus Christ is called to prayer. God has established prayer to set in motion activities of the Spirit, release the supernatural, empower mercy and grace, facilitate the flow of things from heaven to earth, work miracles, and elevate faith. “You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it" (Matthew 21:22 NLT). The call to prayer transcends one’s position in life--their education, economic standing, spiritual experience or how long one has been a believer. Scripture instructs each believer to “pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17 NKJV) and declares that “the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16 NKJV).

        The basic understanding of prayer is to ask, request, and entreat the Lord for something. However, there is a much deeper meaning to prayer which involves being personal and intimate and building one’s relationship with God. Prayer also means hearing the voice of Holy Spirit and committing to know and understand God’s will and His divine purposes.

        The call to prayer needs to be a high priority in one’s life and cannot be replaced by family, career, the issues of life, cultural busyness, or good works in a needy world. Currently in this fast-moving culture and the demands of society, time has become very difficult to manage because of the pressure to perform and to serve others. There are times when one must turn away from all the busyness and demands and turn to God who is above and distinct from all things and over all things. “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2 NAS).

        Responding to God’s call to prayer is vital to every believer’s spiritual wellbeing because of the union of one’s heart and soul with God’s heart. The following are a few reasons for and purposes of being called to pray: Prayer is seeking the Lord with all one’s heart and soul demonstrating the desire to know Him--His heart, nature and will (Deuteronomy 4:29). Prayer enables the renewing of one’s strength (1 Chronicles 16:11). Prayer is an avenue for one to seek healing (James 5:15). Prayer is releasing God’s power to transform cultures and nations (2 Chronicles 7:14). Prayer prepares the heart for spiritual worship.

        The scope of the call to prayer for every believer is personal as well as participating in corporate prayer in the church. “With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints” (Ephesians 6:18 NAS).

        (This blog post was previously posted in November, 2018.)

What's Your Testimony? - posted 8.12.21

        One of the most important questions for a disciple of Jesus Christ is “What is your testimony?” Each disciple will have a testimony working on the inside of them to be declared on the outside. What many disciples fail to recognize is that one’s testimony is living, developing, and growing by the work of Holy Spirit transforming one’s life from glory to glory into the image Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). A testimony is what a disciple is willingly attesting to; when a disciple gives evidence or proof of their personal relationship with God; a declaration of a disciple’s experiences with God’s miraculous intervention and work in their lives; a description of various encounters with God’s Spirit; and how God’s word has affected the life of a disciple.

       A disciple is a living testimony of Holy Spirit dwelling within (Romans 8:9) which confirms the evidence, affirmation, and proof of the work of Jesus Christ; establishes one as the living temple of God (2 Corinthians 6:16), and recognizes one as the living epistle which is known and read by all men (2 Corinthian 3:2). Scripture declares that creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God (Romans 8:19). Part of this revealing of the sons of God would be to uncover and bring to light the testimony of Jesus by His Spirit working sovereignly in one’s life bringing forth a wholesome kingdom lifestyle. One of the greatest weapons that is available to each disciple in order to be an overcomer is the word of their testimony (Revelation 12:11).

       One of the challenges facing the body of Christ currently is that disciples do not believe they have a testimony or those who have a testimony are reluctant, unwilling or afraid to share or declare what God has done or is doing in their lives. Scripture is clear that God has not left Himself without a witness (Acts 14:17). In today’s culture a disciple’s life, word, and actions serve as a witness and a testimony to the acts, workings, and moves of God.

        Every disciple is called to discover and develop their testimony and to declare what God has done in their life. To develop a testimony of the goodness of God, one needs to change their perspective and have a heart to see God’s hand in every aspect of their life. To capture God’s perspective, each disciple must realize they have been raised up and are seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:6) and that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28 NKJV). To have a proper focus a disciple must direct their attention, desire, and passion upon the things of God and His kingdom thus developing a clear vision on how and why God is moving in their life. “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2 NKJV). For the proper heart condition, one must have a profound dedication and a faithful devotion to fill one’s heart with God’s word, presence, goodness, love, mercy, and grace. “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). One’s testimony should flow as rivers of living waters bearing witness to God’s glorious and majestic work in one’s life journey. “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water" (John 7:38 NKJV). 

Truth - posted 8.5.21

        One of God's foundational truths is that mankind cannot live by the wisdom of man, but that mankind can live by the demonstration of God’s Spirit and power. Our faith must not be in the wisdom of this age or of men but in the wisdom and power of God. Two fundamental elements of a victorious life are to know God's Word and to know God's power.

        Deep in your spirit lies the mysteries of God to be revealed to you by Holy Spirit. The heart and spirit of mankind must hear the voice and receive the revelations of the Lord to be guided in all truth.

        Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. 1 Corinthians 2:9 NKJV

        (This blog post was previously posted in August, 2013.)

By My Spirit - posted 7.22.21

        From the beginning there is an indispensable truth and fundamental principle that is tightly woven throughout God’s word so that His design, will, and plan are created in such a fashion that only by His Spirit can be fulfilled. A glaring example in the Scriptures of this truth and principle is the word of the Lord to Zechariah for Zerubbabel, a very powerful governmental official, who was instructed that all the visions of God that were given to him could only be fulfilled by the Spirit of God, not by his power or strength or any other efforts of mankind. “Then he said to me, ‘This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel saying, “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord of hosts’” (Zechariah 4:6 NAS). Might depicts one’s strength, power, force, substance or wealth and power depicts the exercise of might by one’s authority, position or capacity to obtain or accomplish something. Only by God’s Spirit can God’s design, will, and plans be done.

        The truth and principle spoken for Zerubbabel back in his day is alive, active, and applicable to a disciple of Jesus Christ today. All that mankind has discovered, developed, and built still cannot complete, fulfill or accomplish what God has designed, willed, and planned--it is only by His Spirit. "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26b NKJV). There is an alternative mindset that besets and afflicts mankind (especially the religious) which is the belief that one can bring to pass God’s will and plan for their lives for Him. This belief that mankind can do anything or accomplish the things of God without Him actually brings opposition to His word and will. Many disciples through a strong self-will, pride, and fleshly mindset with good intentions set out to do something for God by establishing ministries or works or programs forgetting the lesson that God gave to Zerubbabel. For a disciple to taste victory in what God has for them there must be a clear understanding and acceptance that God’s ways are higher than your ways and His thoughts are higher than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9).

        Currently disciples and churches are being hindered, broken, discouraged, overwhelmed, and weakened by the lack of trust and reliance on God’s Spirit. Disciples declare that they trust God and then proceed in their own might and power to accomplish only what God can do. “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord of hosts (Zechariah 4:6 NAS).

Goodness of God - posted 7.15.21

        No matter where one finds themselves in life whether the mountain top or in the valley of despair; in the abundance of plenty and victory or financial debt, hardship and failure; or in basking in the utopia of rest and peace or caught in the web of stress and chaos the goodness of God is always present, never waivers, is constant, and forever faithful. The sovereign God who is all-powerful, all-consuming, and ruler over all creation is the same God who has goodness as an intricate part of His nature bringing great comfort and encouragement to each disciple of Jesus Christ. The goodness of God consists of righteousness, holiness, justice, kindness, grace, mercy, and love. Goodness is also one of the fruit of the Spirit and should be evident in the life of every disciple (Galatians 5:22).

       The goodness of God can be viewed as an attribute intricately woven into God’s nature who is inherently good. “Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him” (Psalms 34:8 NKJV). God is the foundation of goodness which is established in His everlasting, immutable, and enduring nature which was true in the beginning, is true today, and will be true in the future (Psalms 52:1). The goodness of God is evident and emanates from God which includes His decrees, creation, laws, and word in directing all the nuances of creation and the affairs of mankind which is all good. “Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good” (Genesis 1:31a NKJV).

        One of the greatest demonstrations of God’s goodness is that He overlooked the iniquity, sin, and transgressions of mankind and sent His Son Jesus Christ (John 3:16) to redeem mankind and remove the curse from creation. One must always remember that the goodness of God leads you to repentance (Romans 2:4b NKJV). One cannot work, earn or position themselves for God’s goodness for it is available to all regardless of life’s position, history or affluence.

        The goodness of God is inherent in a disciple’s life by dependence and trust in God. For it is the goodness of God that keeps and sustains each disciple in their journey through life. Since God’s goodness endures forever, we ought never be discouraged. “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him” (Nahum 1:7 NKJV).   

The Holy Spirit in You - posted 7.8.21

        God’s design and plan for the deliverance, redemption, and restoration of His creation from the curse of sin will flow through the triune God--Father, Son and Holy Spirit--and the empowerment of the body of Christ through Holy Spirit within each one in the body. The Father creates all things according to His will; the Son, Jesus Christ, delivers and redeems mankind and creation; the Holy Spirit is sent by the Father to teach, empower, guide, counsel, and unable one to live and walk in the Spirit; and the body of Christ given the great commission (Matthew 28:19-20). God has equipped each disciple of Jesus Christ with an immutable, unstoppable, and unwavering force within them.

        There is a major deficiency and failure in many disciples’ lives preventing them from having a stable, solid, and assured walk with the Lord and His kingdom. These deficiencies and failures consist of the lack of knowledge and understanding of God’s Spirit dwelling within their being. God’s plan of redemption was not only to give a pathway to heaven but also to prepare, sanctify, and create holy temples to house Holy Spirit. It is essential for a disciple to understand God’s infinite and boundless love, mercy, and grace as He demonstrates His will to redeem, regenerate, and restore broken down temples, flawed vessels, and dilapidated houses which represents humanity and turning them into the dwelling place of Holy Spirit. “Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you” (1 Corinthians 3:16 NAS)? God Himself by Holy Spirit has come to live and reside inside every disciple to transform and empower their inner man so that rivers of living water flow freely and abundantly (John 7:38).

       In the current religious culture disciples often use spiritual words, religious cliches or statements, and buzzwords with little to no understanding of the meaning, substance or indwelling truth. For example, one might declare having received Holy Spirit or having been baptized in the Spirit or being filled with the Spirit yet there is no evidence that one’s life transcends, exceeds or goes beyond simple spiritual words, religious cliches or statements, and buzzwords. So let each disciple seek the truth about what is spoken about their spiritual life. “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32 NKJV). The truth will move one beyond lifeless word titles and religious vocabulary into a new life of the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19), being transformed into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18), and experiencing the abundance of Holy Spirit--His gifts, fruit, counsel, truth--and a powerful, eternal, and intimate relationship with the triune God. 

        Let us ponder on this spiritual truth that each disciple is the dwelling place, sanctuary, and the residence of Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). Holy Spirit, who is God, actually lives and exists within each disciple [selah] along with His nature, character, authority, power, and presence. Yes, the Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you (Romans 8:11) and where the Spirit of the Lord there is liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17). Seek the Lord for the revelation, truth, and reality of who lives in you and give yourself to Him.

        …that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. Ephesians (3:16-19 NAS)

Your Kingdom Come - posted 7.1.21

        Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10 NAS

        The antidote, solution, and remedy for the chaos, upheaval, and general condition of society ultimately rests in these Scriptural truths--God’s kingdom being ever present and His will being done on earth as it is in heaven. There is a cultural belief that has been propagated among mankind that the issues, problems, and situations in life are far too complicated to be solved with simplistic answers that are derived from the word of God. Scripture declares a very simplistic truth, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33 NAS). The instruction is that a disciple of Jesus Christ needs to set their attention on God’s kingdom, live by the word of God (Luke 4:4), live and walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25), practice righteousness in every aspect of life (1 John 3:7), trust that God knows your need (Matthew 6:8), and believe that God will supply all that you need (Philippians 4:19).

         When a disciple asks for God’s kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven, one must have knowledge, understanding, and revelation of the kingdom they serve and its power, magnitude, authority, and dominion over the other kingdom. Kingdom can be defined as a sphere which designates the rule, reign, dominion, royal power, and sovereignty of a king. The King of God’s kingdom is Jesus who has been given all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). God’s kingdom is not limited by that which He created or the natural laws that He established. God makes things that are not seen into things that are seen (Hebrews 11:3) and can create from nothing and transforms what is in existence. The kingdom of God offers abundant life, provision, health, strength, and life eternal.

        For God’s will to be done there needs to be a concerted effort by a disciple to yield to God--His pleasures, desires, and plans--through obedience to His word, respect for His laws, living a righteous life, being holy, and knowing what is acceptable to Him.

        There is an inherent danger when a disciple who is in God's kingdom does not comprehend the enormous power, authority, timeless and limitless dominion, and eternal glory of the King. Because of a lack of knowledge, the disciple can be destroyed (Hosea 4:6) and caught between two kingdoms unable to serve and be devoted to either one. Without realizing and recognizing that the kingdom of God is greater than the kingdom of darkness then there is not a plausible or conceivable solution to changing the condition of society. One must be reminded that "the things that are impossible with people are possible with God" (Luke 18:27 NAS).

        For the kingship and the kingdom are the Lord's, and He is the ruler over the nations. Psalms 22:28 AMP

Divine Connections - posted 6.24.21

        The only real stabilizing force that exists in this chaotic atmosphere and cultural upheaval is one’s divine connections with the sovereign God and His kingdom. These divine connections are the only dependable and secure way in establishing a stable, reliable, and assured lifeline to a victorious life. Divine connections are established when a disciple of Jesus Christ focuses and gives attention to the Godhead--Father, Son and Holy Spirit--and seeks the Lord with the knowledge and understanding that His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).

        It is the disciple’s responsibility to get God’s attention and draw near to Him and He will draw near to you (James 4:8). Through divine connections one will create a lifeline that joins each disciple or a group of disciples to God which can be accessed at any time. From God’s perspective this lifeline is always available, open, and ready for each disciple to activate in order to bring a consistent lifestyle, solid relationships, continual growth, and needed answers. In the culture that exists today a disciple cannot afford to be tossed about by faulty doctrine, the trickery of men, and cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting (Ephesians 4:14). Conversely, each disciple must be anchored with a divine lifeline connecting them to God’s promises, immutable counsel (Hebrews 6:17), the word of God which is living and powerful (Hebrews 4:12), the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4), and the hope that is set before each disciple (Hebrews 6:18). These divine connections are sustained by one who rejoices always, prays without ceasing, gives thanks in all things and does not quench Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19). 

        Every disciple through divine connections is empowered, enabled, and anointed to live life on a higher level than in the natural realm and is able to surpass the culture of mankind and the dominion of the god of this age because each disciple is seated with Christ in the heavenly places. "If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:1-2 NKJV).

        For a disciple to have healthy, wholesome, and sustaining connections with the Godhead--Father, Son and Holy Spirit--on a daily basis, there must be a commitment, effort, and time invested in their relationship with God and position themselves to receive His wisdom, capture His perspective, walk in the Spirit, and activate the principles of the kingdom.   

The Fear of God - posted 6.17.21

        Fear is one of the most powerful forces and determining factors in society, culture, and every individual’s life. Fear will guide, encourage, and enhance one’s development and create a lifestyle that is wholesome, constructive, and victorious or fear will lead to a lifestyle that is destructive, full of upheaval, encased in bondage or embedded in failure.

        Each disciple of Jesus Christ must have a clear knowledge and understanding that there is an immense difference between the fear of God and the spirit of fear. The fear of God (of the Lord) is an inherent truth which is expressed in Scripture from the beginning to the end and is absolutely central to having the right relationship with the Godhead--Father, Son and Holy Spirit--and is essential in developing a kingdom of God lifestyle. 

        The fear of God is fundamental in a disciple’s life in identifying and revealing the dynamics of God’s character and nature that He is love (1 John 4:8) and also a just God (Isaiah 45:21). A disciple’s fear of God is identified as reverence, awe, and the admiration for the love, mercy, and grace of God; however, equally important is the fear and awe of God who reigns supreme, rules the universe, and exercises godly justice. “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:28-29 NKJV). 

        Fear in a worldly setting carries a much different origin and concept then the fear of the God. The origin of this negative force of fear is the god of this age who uses sources such as society, culture, government, and mankind to initiate control, manipulation, anxiety, despair, and bondage. One living in the atmosphere of ungodly fear is subject to the spirit of fear which produces painful apprehension, undisciplined emotion, misplaced passion, lack of resolve, weakened faith, anticipation of harm, and the expectation of failure. Any individual caught in the grip of this ungodly fear can be set free by accepting Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord and placing their trust in Him. For Scripture declares “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV).

        One might ask why fear God? The reason a disciple of Jesus Christ must have the fear of God (of the Lord) is because He is the sovereign God with matchless power as the Creator of all things and all people (Psalms 33:6-9), continually exercises His authority and power over His creation and mankind (Mark 4:39-41), alone is holy (Revelation 15:4), is manifesting His glory before mankind (Matthew 17:1-8), grants forgiveness for the sins of mankind (Psalms 130:4), and is the word of truth (Psalms 119:160). 

        Reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may avoid the snares of death. Proverbs 14:27 AMP

Whose Report Will You Believe - posted 5.27.21

        In today’s culture there are many contrasting and contradicting reports. God through His word, Spirit, and body of Christ will bring forth His report and the god of this age and his designed worldly system will continually declare a different, contrasting, and often time contradicting report. Whose report will you believe? Isaiah 53:1a NKJV states the question, “Who has believed our report?” The word ‘report’ is simply defined as the message, news, information or voice that is heard and believed. Isaiah is asking or determining what people are hearing, receiving, and believing from the servants of God.

        The body of Christ has a challenge today of knowing the true report of the Lord and discerning all other reports, news, messages or voices whether from man, media, government or deceptive lies of the enemy. Scripture is clear, “know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32b NKJV). It is a necessity for the disciples of Jesus Christ to develop and maintain the proper relationship, commitment, and passion towards the Godhead (the Father, Son and Holy Spirit). A disciple needs to know God’s word, hear His voice, and embrace His will which enables one to persevere, evaluate, and discern all reports.

        In order to discern the report of the Lord, each disciple and the body of Christ as a whole must be rooted and built up in their belief in God, His word and kingdom. When being properly rooted and built up, a disciple will have the assurance of their faith, the knowledge that no weapon formed against them will prosper, and understanding that “the things which are impossible with men are possible with God" (Luke 18:27 NKJV). With this kind of knowledge and understanding a disciple will develop strength in their inner being with an immutable conviction, steadfast confidence, and a well-grounded doctrine enabling one to deliver and bring forth the report, news, information, and message of the gospel with boldness, tenacity, and unrelenting faith. The report of the Lord given or received is greater--more potent, powerful or persuasive—than the narrative of the enemy, mankind, and other ruling forces. 

        A disciple of Jesus Christ must believe the report is from the Lord, true, and grounded in Scripture in order to give a believable report.

        But they have not all heeded the Gospel; for Isaiah says, Lord, who has believed (had faith in) what he has heard from us? Romans 10:16 AMP

We Will Not Be Shaken - posted 5.20.21

        Currently in our society there are forces at work that are causing an atmosphere of confusion and instability which produces much uncertainty in many lives. A disciple of Jesus Christ whose life is firmly placed on the rock (Luke 6:48), who stands on the sure foundation of God (2 Timothy 2:19), and who knows that God is not author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33) will stand on the truth and declare that “We Will Not Be Shaken”.

        God’s desire for each disciple of Jesus Christ is to become an unshakable force in a very confused and unstable world because they have been given a kingdom which cannot be shaken. Scripture declares that the kingdom of God is within you (Luke 17:21) and that kingdom cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28). Scripture also admonishes disciples to stand fast in the Lord (2 Thessalonians 2:15), cast all your care upon the Lord (1 Peter 5:7), and believe that the battle is the Lord’s (1 Samuel 17:47).

        To live a life that cannot be shaken each disciple must have the knowledge and understanding that according to God’s word that Holy Spirit who is an immutable and unshakable presence and force dwells within them. Holy Spirit through the baptism of fire will establish the kingdom of God within each disciple which cannot be shaken. The phrase 'cannot be shaken' speaks of one that cannot be moved, flustered, jolted, or overcome. To ensure and secure a life that cannot be shaken one must know that the word of God abides within (1 John 2:14), the word of God is effectively working in you (1 Thessalonians 2:13), one must abide in the Lord (John 15:7), and one must embrace the work of Holy Spirit within them and understand that no external power, presence, force or entity can cause one to become shaken, unstable, overcome or undone.

        Remembering that God is sovereign and works all things according to the counsel of His will (Ephesians 1:11), any shaking that takes place is under His authority and control. Scripture declares in Hebrews 12:26-27 that the Lord will shake both earth and heaven to remove those things that can be shaken and those things that cannot be shaken will remain.

        Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire. Hebrews 12:28-29 NAS

Peace - posted 5.13.21

        God’s peace is a life-giving quality that every individual needs at the center or core of their being whether on the mountain top or in the valley of despair. God’s peace is a multifaceted dimension of who God is--His presence, nature, and character--made available to everyone through His Son Jesus Christ. For each disciple of Jesus Christ, the peace of God is fundamental in experiencing the fulness of God’s kingdom which is righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). The peace of God often refers to the inner tranquility, calmness, serenity, and poise of a disciple’s life whose trust is in God through Jesus Christ and the presence of Holy Spirit. Isaiah had a revelation and understanding of the coming Messiah (Isaiah 9:6-7) and spoke of this peace as a composite and blending of trust, hope, rest, and the quieting of the soul as result of reconciliation with God.

        When a disciple of Jesus Christ develops a mindset, discipline, and lifestyle of accepting and affirming God as their refuge (Psalm 46:1), one begins to experience the peace of God in every aspect of their life. While experiencing the blessing of a mountain top lifestyle with victory, abundance, and accomplishment, the peace of God will keep one focused on Him and not give way to the emptiness of material things or momentary and temporary pleasure. For each disciple must have the understanding that “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17 NKJV). For disciples who are experiencing the challenges, issues, and failure of the valley of despair, God knows your every need (Matthew 6:8), will never forsake you (Hebrews 13:5), and His peace will invade and change the elements and makeup of one’s storm, chaos or upheaval and bring about order, uniformity, and rest. For the disciples whose journey is currently normal, God’s peace will enable one to experience life without all the highs and lows. According to the Scriptures, God will make the high places to become low and the low places to become high and the crooked places become straight (Luke 3:5).

        Scripture declares in John 14:27 NKJV “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” God will bring peace to a disciple of Jesus Christ in every situation, issue, challenge, and aspect of life as one places their trust in Him. 

        So long as we are preoccupied with any other thing than God Himself there will be neither rest for the heart nor peace for the mind. But when we receive all that enters into our lives coming from His hand, then no matter what may be our circumstances or surroundings--whether in a hovel or prison dungeon or at a martyr's stake--we shall be enabled to say, "The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places (Ps. 16:6). But that is the language of faith, not of sight nor of sense.” [quote by A. W. Pink]

        Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace (the peace of His kingdom) at all times and in all ways [under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes]. The Lord [be] with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 AMP  

Pray and Trust in the Lord - posted 5.6.21

        Currently what is transpiring in America is the development of a cultural unrighteous divide in the land that can only be closed, repaired, and healed by its people returning to God. Scripture declares "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand” (Matthew 12:25 NKJV). The result of this great divide is that our nation has lost its way and identity and continues to disregard the Constitution which is a covenant with God; is no longer motivated by the spirit of excellence; has embraced an entitlement mindset; gives way to political correctness and tolerance in the name of fairness; and justifies unrighteousness. One focus point to be utilized in the observance of the National Day of Prayer for America is for God’s people to totally and completely put their trust in Him and follow His instructions. “Those from among you shall build the old waste places; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and you shall be called the Repairer of the Breach, the Restorer of Streets to Dwell In” (Isaiah 58:12 NKJV).

       Can you imagine what would happen in America if everyone who calls on the name of Jesus Christ would come together, be the repairs of the breach, and restorer of the streets. So, let all disciples of Jesus Christ come in agreement, trust in the Lord, and pray for mercy and grace that His will be done. In Matthew 6:9-10 NKJV we are instructed, "In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." God will respond as the body of Christ repents and is unified and in one accord having one voice and standing in the gap between heaven and earth seeking the Lord and interceding for America.

       Be unceasing in prayer [praying perseveringly] 1 Thessalonians 5:17 AMP

       Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. Proverbs 3:5 AMP   

Knowing God - posted 4.29.21

        Life’s journey is filled with opportunities, situations, events, and happenings which are all designed to introduce and connect one’s life with God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit. All things whether good, bad or indifferent are meant to draw people to God, transform their lives, and reflect God's design and purposes. It is God's will and desire for all to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and be submitted to the governance of His Spirit and the counsel of His will (Ephesians 1:11). “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:3-4 NKJV).

        “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist” (Colossians 1:16-17 NKJV). Understanding this Scripture will cause a paradigm shift in one's focus and assist in searching for and experiencing God's will and purpose in every opportunity, situation, and event that happens to them. No matter what state, circumstance or position one finds themselves in, it benefits them to seek, discover and encounter God and His Son Jesus Christ as well as to experience the workings, dealings and molding of Holy Spirit. "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28 NKJV).

        Currently in today's culture there is a major hindrance in the quest to know and experience God. The challenge is that many believers do not understand the difference between having knowledge of and about God and actually experiencing the reality of God--His actions, grace, mercy and love. For example having knowledge and studying about God’s love is different than experiencing His love. A believer’s life that is based solely on the knowledge about God will focus their attention on the hand of God--things, results, and needs--instead of life changing experiences, mercies, and grace that transform the inner man into the likeness and image of Jesus Christ.

        Scripture instructs believers to “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need” (Matthew 6:33 NLT). Regardless of any situation that exists God instructs the believer to seek Him, His Kingdom and righteous living for two reasons: (1) to create a belief, reliance, trust, and relationship with Him and (2) to build character, strength, faith, and experience in knowing Him.

        The instruction to King Solomon should also be embraced by every believer. "As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. (I Chronicles 28:9 NKJV)."

       (This blog post was previously posted in April, 2017.) 

Break Free - posted 4.15.21

        Currently in today’s atmosphere and environment many restraints and controls have been implemented in society that have made changes in the lifestyle of many Christians. This atmosphere and environment give the appearance that life is at a standstill, the future is bleak, and hope is fading. Disciples of Jesus Christ should not allow these natural changes to invade their relationship with God and their spiritual life. The time is right for every disciple to break free of restraints, hindrances or controls that has affected, intruded or encroached on their spiritual life. At the same time each disciple is called to elevate their expectations, empower their belief system, and expand their faith by hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17) and stretching out their spiritual tent pegs (Isaiah 54:2).

        When a disciple does not have discipline and allows their spiritual life to be restrained and controlled by external forces and does not break free from them, then eventually they will succumb to the development of strongholds and enable these strongholds to take root in the inner man causing a deep-seated change within the makeup one’s identity. Strongholds, fortresses, and walls are being built at an alarming rate in the lives of people because of self-preservation, insecurity, vulnerability, various forms of abuse, a continuing development of a godless culture, and the lingering fear and effects of the plague (coronavirus). Strongholds are mind-sets, attitudes, and ways of thinking that have been developed, believed, and accepted over an extended period of time. The influence of strongholds upon a person's soul and thought process will over time lead to being controlled and manipulated by life circumstances and not being able to live a fulfilled life.

        Breaking free of the restraints, controls, and strongholds of man is essential for a disciple to elevate their life to the proper spiritual level, rise up in the light of His glory, have a new zeal for the things of God, and fresh fire of the Holy Spirit. A disciple must embrace the truth that they are governed by the rule and reign of God’s kingdom which is within them and are guided, directed, and empowered by the indwelling of Holy Spirit (John 16:13, Romans 8:9). No matter what restraints and controls are put in place externally in one’s life there needs to be understanding that breaking free originates in the inner man and then extends outwardly. Let each disciple step beyond the normal Christian routine by stepping into the rivers of God’s Spirit, embracing the spiritual life from within, being the spiritual force and light in the world, and releasing the kingdom of God.

        For a disciple to live a break free life they must abide in Jesus Christ and His words (John 15:5,7) which enables the giftings, anointing, and power to break all strongholds and bondages and eliminate hinderances that prevent one’s freedom to live and walk in Spirit because when Jesus sets one free, they are free indeed (John 8:36).

Transcendent Light of God - posted 4.8.21 

        The intrinsic and penetrating darkness that exists today in individual lives, culture, and the affairs and governance of mankind can only be eradicated by the transcending light of God and the radiance of His glory. Darkness has been on the earth since the beginning of time. The earth was full of darkness both spiritually and naturally until the Spirit of God hovered over the face of the deep (Genesis 1:2) and God spoke light into existence which penetrated the darkness (Genesis 1:3). 

        Scripture declares that darkness shall cover the earth and deep darkness the people. However the Lord through the radiance of His glory and His transcending light will arise upon His people and His light will be seen by all (Isaiah 60:1-2). “This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5 NAS). God in His eternal plan for mankind and creation sent His Son Jesus Christ to be the source of His transcendent light upon and in the world. Jesus declared "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" (John 8:12 NKJV) and also declared “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world" (John 9:5 NKJV).

        The eternal plan of God was that Jesus would not remain here on earth but would ascend to His rightful place as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords seated at the right hand of His Father. The miracle of God’s transcending light is that Jesus who is the light of the world would transform and empower His disciples to be instruments of His light throughout the world. Scripture declares to each disciple of Jesus Christ in Matthew 5:14 NKJV “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Now the one light of the world becomes a multifaceted light as it is released through multiple vessels which is the body of Christ. (As the graphic demonstrates--a single ray of light passes through the hand of Jesus and multiple rays of light come through the other side.)

       In today’s culture I hear a continual dialogue and discourse in the body of Christ as to the amount and depth of darkness that has been released into society without realizing that they are the answer. Disciples of Jesus Christ need to stop focusing on the darkness and be the light to the world as instructed by Jesus. "No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light” (Luke 11:33 NKJV). One can only imagine what would happen if the light of each disciple came in oneness within the body of Christ to shine the light of Jesus Christ into the dark, evil, and corrupt world and destroy the dominion, power, and hold that darkness has on the affairs of mankind. "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 NAS). When light shows up, darkness must flee.

       For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. Ephesians 5:8-10 NLT

  

The Resurrection - posted 4.1.21

        The season is upon us of celebrating the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let’s look beyond the normal trappings of man-made rituals and materialism to capture a life-giving truth -- that we may know Him and the power of His resurrection (Philippians 3:10). Receiving revelation of this truth enables each believer to live and walk each day in the Spirit and newness of life.

        Resurrection is the central doctrine of being a Christian affirming that God raised Jesus from the dead on third day (Mark 10:33-34). Without the resurrection, the entire belief system is faulty and preaching of the Word and faith are in vain (I Corinthians 15:14). So important and significant is the resurrection of Jesus Christ that without it there would not be the remission of sins (1 Corinthians 15:17).

        As the body of Christ celebrates the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ annually, every believer should celebrate it daily. "If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23b NKJV). Every day as we yield to the power of the cross there is a perpetual flow and release of the power of the resurrection.

        Remember that "the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you" (Romans 8:11 NJKV). Through the cross, resurrection, and renewing life of Holy Spirit we are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).

        Therefore, we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection. Romans 6:4-5 NKJV

        (This blog post was previously posted in March, 2016.)

The Power of Words - posted 3.25.21

        The desire of many disciples of Jesus Christ is to have a quality and productive life both spiritually and naturally thus fulfilling their life purposes and dreams. For every disciple there is one common component in life which is instrumental in determining the scope, content, and value of their life which is the quality and nature of the words that proceed from their being either spoken or written. Understanding the nature and power of words is crucial for the development of one's character, mindset, and disposition.

        Scripture stresses that it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a man but what come out of the mouth that defiles and man (Matthew 15:11). In this modern era of communication, much of the written word via social media has replaced the spoken word but has the same results as spoken words. The outlook, effectiveness, quality, and character of one’s life is the sum total of words spoken or written whether to the good or bad. This is why King David prayed "Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips" (Psalms 141:3 NAS). The essence of David's prayer is that God would guard him from the temptation of speaking anything rashly, unadvisedly, and improperly and not allow any unrighteousness to come from his mouth. “Let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but if there is any good word for edification according to the need of the moment, say that, so that it will give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29 NAS).

        Words are one of the most powerful and potent forces that are available to mankind and particularly a disciple of Jesus Christ. Words have creative power which will ultimately bring life or death. "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit" (Proverbs 18:21 NKJV). Each disciple must understand and realize that by words we honor God and define ourselves as ones who have been given a new heart, new spirit, and the indwelling of Holy Spirit. A disciple’s words that are spoken or written without the governance of God’s word, guidance of Holy Spirit, the discernment of one’s inner being (heart), and temperance of one’s thinking will lead to double-mindedness, unstable spiritual life, and words with no value or substance.

        At no other time is recent history has the importance and relevance of the spoken or written word been scrutinized, examined, judged, and tested. The god of this age has released a war on the spoken or written word where entire lives, careers, families, and government are being manipulated, changed or destroyed with an aggressive agenda to regulate or eradicate the liberty of one exercising the right of free speech. In today’s culture a disciple of Jesus Christ must have the resolve, tenacity, perseverance, and steadfastness to stand firm in one’s commitment to God’s word, be guided by the Spirit of Truth, have the internal fortitude to speak or write the truth, and be obedient in communicating God’s word.

        Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer. Psalms 19:14 NKJV

Buy the Truth - posted 3.18.21

        Much emphasis and value are placed on the ability to buy tangible items. There are large amounts of time, effort, and money spent in order to obtain, acquire, and maintain material things that have little value and a limited life span. God makes available a very powerful and influential intangible item that one can buy that has no limits and is eternal--the truth. Scripture instructs to "buy the truth, and do not sell it, also wisdom and instruction and understanding" (Proverbs 23:23 NKJV). Anything that has intrinsic value, worth and importance that is connected to God and His kingdom will have a corresponding cost. For example, King David declared “I will not offer burnt offerings to the LORD my God which cost me nothing” (2 Samuel 24:24b NAS). Such is the case with the truth. In order for a believer to buy the truth there will be an inherent cost to them.

        For one to buy or acquire the truth there must be an acknowledgement of the Spirit of truth (John 16:13); an acceptance of the word of truth; and a commitment to God’s ways, principles, requirements and commandments. Currently in the church culture there is a belief and mindset that one can rent or borrow the truth without ownership, cost or sacrifice. This is highly deceptive. This kind of deception is what leads to manipulation which weakens, compromises and changes the truth to line up with cultural demands, man’s doctrine, and justification of the lifestyle of mankind. To take ownership of truth requires the implantation of that truth into one’s life and to keep the integrity and ethics of that truth regardless of cost or personal sacrifice.

        Once one has bought and committed to the truth it is very dangerous to exchange that truth (Romans 1:25) for something of lesser value or a lie for personal gain. Truth is founded and established on the Word of God and the execution of His will. Any exchange in the truths found in God's Word would be classified as selling the truth. In the current culture, truth is open for debate, divided into acceptable and unacceptable, used as a means to gain the favor of man, and compromised to be relevant. A believer either stands in and for the truth at all cost or they sell out and exchange the truth.

        For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. (3 John 3-4 NKJV)

        (This blog post was previously posted in August, 2017.)

Our God is Faithful - posted 3.11.21

        Exiting from a very turbulent year and entering the unfolding of this current year, it is extremely important where one places their trust and confidence. One needs to trust and have confidence in someone or something that does not change and is trustworthy, faithful, enduring, and steadfast because it will affect their mental and spiritual state, approach to life, and quality of life. Proverbs 3:5 NAS instructions are to “trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.” Knowing the fundamental truth about God’s faithfulness is essential for one to place their trust in God with the understanding that God always does what He has said and fulfills what He has promised. “Everything about God is great, vast, incomparable. He never forgets, never fails, never falters, never forfeits His word. To every declaration of promise or prophecy the Lord has exactly adhered, every engagement of covenant or threatening He will make good” (A. W. Pink).

        God is faithful to the covenant with His people who love and obey Him. Faithfulness is the quality essential to His nature without it He would not be God. "Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments" (Deuteronomy 7:9 NKJV). Each disciple of Jesus Christ must understand that because God is faithful does not mean that He is predictable or can be anticipated. Many relationships with God are weakened or destroyed because of this misconception or having a preconceived notion on what God will do which leads to presumption, faulty expectation, weakening of faith, and gross disappointment. Every day disciples must “seek the LORD and His strength” (1 Chronicles 16:11 NKJV) and “trust in the LORD, do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness” (Psalms 37:3 NKJV).

        God’s faithfulness contrasts sharply with mankind’s unfaithfulness and rebellion. “If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). Mankind is prone to be unfaithful due to the condition of their heart and soul which causes them to break vows, violate trust, undermine confidence, and not have the substance of faith to sustain commitments and promises. One of the greatest fruits of regeneration is the transformation of the inner man moving them from being unfaithful to being faithful.  

        When the Scripture declares God is faithful, it means that He is dependable, loyal, stable, steadfast, trustworthy, secure, firm, and enduring. God is true and will adhere to all His promises with consistency. The root word of 'faithfulness' comes from the word 'Amen' meaning “so be it.” The faithfulness of God and His word is an unbreakable, immutable, and everlasting covenant promise. God’s faithfulness is far beyond what one could achieve on their own. Here are some wonderful benefits that God’s faithfulness will accomplish in a disciple’s life. God’s faithfulness is instrumental in bringing change, giving value, providing protection, satisfying hope, establishing faith, demonstrating His power, and reaffirming His love in the life of His people.

        God is faithful (reliable, trustworthy, and therefore ever true to His promise, and He can be depended on); by Him you were called into companionship and participation with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  1 Corinthians 1:9 AMP 

It is Time to Seek the Lord - posted 3.4.21

        In the current environment and atmosphere, mankind and society have entered into a time and season which is seemingly void of understanding, filled with uncertainty, riddled with fear, and lacking surety of the future. One must come to the understanding that God is sovereign, all powerful, omnipotent, faithful, everlasting, and nothing is too great for Him. "The things which are impossible with men are possible with God" (Luke 18:27 NKJV). I declare to every disciple of Jesus Christ that it is time to “Seek the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near” (Isaiah 55:6 NKJV). The Scripture declares that “He (God) changes the times and the seasons; He (God) removes kings and raises up kings; He (God) gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. He (God) reveals deep and secret things; He (God) knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him” (Daniel 2:21-22 NKJV emphasis added).

        Scripture is very clear for each disciple and the body of Christ (ekklesia) to prioritize and set their attention, concentration, and lifestyle to seeking those things which are above and not be entangled or deceived by focusing on the things on the earth (Colossians 3:2). Considering all that is transpiring in this time and season, it is evident that many have placed their focus on the things on the earth, man's systems, requirements of culture, limited resources, and under the control of the god of this age. Making a conscious choice of turning one’s heart toward the Lord will change a misplaced focus.

        What does it mean to seek the Lord? It means to pursue; place one’s attention, concentration, and devotion into knowing the Lord--His nature, character, and attributes; and experience His presence. In seeking the Lord, one ultimately is seeking His presence which literally means seeking His face. It is time to seek the Lord for within Him rests all the wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to navigate one’s way through this time and season. Scripture teaches that “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:1-2 NKJV).