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Refined in the Press

Man using stone mill to crush olives for olive oil extraction — Season of Pressing

Dear Heavenly Father,

First, thank you. Thank you for your goodness and faithfulness in our lives. Thank you for teaching, guiding, correcting, and developing us in the press. Though this season feels intense, we know that you are refining us in the deep and the dark. Let us not forget that according to 2 Corinthians 4: 17 that “our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”.

Let us remember that anything worth doing or becoming, takes time and yes, pressure in order to remove any impurities. Purify us Lord, remodel us according to your image. Let us remember that the Holy Spirit is within us and we can draw from an eternal, holy, and perfect source always.

Let us always remember the redemptive work of the cross and that Yeshua died for us, took on all sin and debt-past, current and future so that we may live in covenant with You- Yahweh. Keep us near to your pulse, aware of your presence, and obedient to your correction. Protect us from seen and unseen danger, from unfitting words spoken by others or ourselves, from intrusive thoughts and from any doubt or fear. We cast our cares and worry upon you and commit to living a life worthy and acceptable unto you.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

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Under Pressure

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 (ESV)

Dear Dad,

As the world around us is changing rapidly. Our circumstances are shifting drastically. Our micro and macro-environments shake violently. Help us to embrace You under the pressure. Embed in our mind that this world is not our home. We are nomads in a land not destined for us. Teach us to value meditating on Your Word. Orchestrate Your will for our lives in our minds. Hear our prayer as we await relief under the constraints of this life. Be our guide when everywhere we turn its dark, its night. Remind us of our role to be light. Renew our mind daily with Your power and Your might. Awaken our souls to the sound of our mentor. Quicken our hearts to obedience under pure surrender. Stretch out Your hand over Your land. Give us discernment under testing, wisdom in the face of wickedness, and contentment in the center of dissension.

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Be Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Glow in the Dark

As long as you have the light, believe in the light so that you might become people whose lives are determined by the light (John 12:36 CSB)

I thought about and wrote down this title a few weeks ago. I was not sure when I would get the leading to write again. But this morning, I read John 10 through 12 during my devotional time. This verse jumped out to me urgently. I recently read snippets of the news. I also watched a few highlight reels on social media- sighed and thought, “It’s dark out here”. And it is and I know it is not just me thinking this. I know you see it, feel it, and think it too.

I read these verses in John. I thought about the importance of what Jesus’ light had to offer, and continues to offer daily. His light counteracts what darkness tries to consume: our life, our minds, and our spirits. Jesus warned those listening then. His warning still applies to us listening now. He said that the enemy desires to “steal, kill, and destroy” in the front half of John 10:10. In the back half, He counters that by stating that He (Jesus) came so they (sheep-us) could have life. They could live life to the fullest.

The caveat to this life that oozes out light and eternal life can only be given if we believe in Him. We are mirrors of His reflection if we believe in Him and receive salvation. Just as the moon is the reflection of the sun, so are we a reflection of the Son. Once we accept that we are the sheep of His pasture and are led by Him, we harness light. We become a weapon of darkness that frustrates its effects.

It is not without hardship, dying daily, or warfare, but just as gold and precious metals need to be refined by fire (another form of intense light), so do we. God never said that this life would be easy. He did say that He would be with us though. He did say that in this world we would have trouble. He did say that He overcame the world though. He did say that He is the light of life, the Gate, the Shepherd, and the Savior.

Our lives must mirror this message: have the light, believe in the light, and be determined by the light. The next time you walk into darkness, remember these words: “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). Be a spark and glow in the dark.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Plumb Line

This is what the Lord showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall, with a plumb line in his hand. The Lord said to me, “Amos, what do you see?”“A plumb line,” I said.Then the Lord said,
Then the Lord said, “See, I am setting a plumb line in the middle of my people Israel. I will never again forgive them. The shrines of Isaac will be made desolate, and the holy places of Israel will be laid waste, and I will rise against the house of Jeroboam with the sword.” (Amos 7:7-9) CEB

I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line.
But hail will sweep away the hiding place of lies, and water will overflow the shelter. (Isaiah 28:17) CEB

vintage plumb bob isolated on white background

Have you ever seen one of these before? The reason why I ask is because I had no idea until I saw this word a couple of times in my Bible during my devotional time. Then, two days ago, I heard someone use it. Of course in that moment, I felt a draw that I was supposed to investigate further. And I wrestled with preparing this because of how weighty the topic. The pull from the Holy Spirit became more apparent and then I started to read about the practical and biblical use of the plumb line.

In practical terms, the plumb line is “a line (as of cord) that has at one end a weight (as a plumb bob) and is used especially to determine verticality”. In biblical terms, the plumb line ” is the image — the parable — of God’s holy and righteous standard for Israel. It served as a measuring line representing Israel’s failure, and how far they had fallen from God’s guiding principles”.

When I read these two scripture selections that addressed the plumb line and thought about both the practical and biblical definitions, I immediately questioned where we are as a generation today and how we too have so fallen away from the righteous standards of God’s principles. I began to look around and within and think, “Oh my how have we lost the true fear of the Lord and have become so distracted by what is occurring around us”.

I reflected on the verses in Matthew 7:13-14 that states “Go in through the narrow gate. The gate that leads to destruction is broad and the road wide, so many people enter through it. But the gate that leads to life is narrow and the road difficult, so few people find it. Taking all this in, provided understanding on the correlation between the plumb line and the narrow gate or path.

Our relationship with Him is a reflection of our inner and outward walk. When we follow His way, it is difficult because it takes a level of submission and dying to self that we cannot do on our own. And it is not too late to evaluate our plumb line and whether we are on the broad or narrow path. But will we allow Him to strengthen us vertically to be corrected and directed today? Or will we be so consumed by what the world has to offer and be led astray?

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Hang On

Don’t suppress the Spirit. Don’t brush off Spirit-inspired messages, but examine everything carefully and hang on to what is good. Avoid every kind of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22 (CEB)

After recently ending a month of fasting, I recognized the importance of its significance early this morning. I normally try to sleep in a little extra on the weekends, but the tug to rise before daylight became unavoidable. I reached out to God this morning in my one on one time and heard the whisper to read 1st Thessalonians. I wondered why that was the text to read after my daily devotion and then I found these spirit filled words from the apostle Paul to believers in Thessalonica (north of modern Greece) that I know we can all grab onto today during these evil days.

I have been hearing from many believers and non-believers about how dark, perilous, and tumultuous this world has become in recent days. Do you notice it? Do you sense the shift in the atmosphere? It is almost like a spiritual earthquake with invisible tectonic plates, but the aftershocks are creating waves of dissonance, confusion, and darkness. That is the best way that I can describe it to myself. Honestly, it can be off putting, because as we toil day by day, we may feel like we are stepping into quick sand sometimes as the world around us provides increased pressure and decreased comfort.

And as I searched for solace, I found His peace. I saw these words which reminded me to stay close to the Holy Spirit in these times. During my fasting period, God was dealing with me on many levels. He was refining me more, purifying my heart, testing my resolve, my faith in Him, increasing my awareness of His presence, correcting my posture, and drawing me to messages and words that fed my spirit with the right food, no matter how convicting. He also blessed me with many dreams and interpretations, fortitude, and His love. He met me where I was and came alongside me as a gentle Father to assist me with understanding.

In all transparency, it has been difficult to continue to examine my ways because it has led to a deeper level of introspection that I was not ready for, but what God needs of me to be able to withstand and to conquer in this next season. So just like you, I am hanging on. I am hanging on to His Word and to Him which is the only thing in this world that is truly good. Thank God for His Word, for the leading of the Holy Spirit, and for His grace. Stay Tapped in! Let’s remain aware of His presence and commit ourselves to obedience in Him and covenant with Him.

Stay Encouraged and Hang On

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Always In Training

“There is still the youngest” Jesse replied. But he’s out in the fields watching the sheep and goats. 1 Samuel 16: 11 (NLT)

In my devotion time this morning, I read about David’s inception into leadership. Although, I have read this many times, I stumbled over more information that made me appreciate the journey more and more. If you have not had the opportunity to read about young David, who would become king David, who God called a “man after His own heart”; it’s a stunning story about what is takes to become a leader. You can read all about this in 1st Samuel.

Many look at leadership as a source of power, but many in leadership do not embody power at all. Why? well, because that power can only be sourced through the Lord Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. David was hand picked by God, not man selected by committees. Even Jesse; David’s own earthly father counted him out and mentioned him last to Samuel before bringing him in front of this well known priest/prophet. The Lord confirms to Samuel by saying “This is the one; anoint him” ( 1 Sam 1:12b).

As I gleaned over this, I thought about everything David was doing in that time and realized, he was in training. He was a shepherd boy, tending to his father’s flock. He was also a musician skilled in playing the harp. He was described to king Saul as a brave warrior, a man of war, and with good judgment. One statement that struck out to me that made this even more of a poignant description was that the “Lord is with him” ( 1Sam 1:18).

I pondered over the importance of having the Lord with us and how we never know what is being said about us when we are not around. That speaks to character – which can only truly be lived out righteously with Him in our lives. Leaders without character are like shells without any filling. Leaders without the Holy Spirit are like pools devoid of water-empty and dry. Once Samuel anointed David, the Bible states that the “Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on” (1 Sam 1:13).

He stepped into a different level in that moment spiritually. He may have been overlooked before and even in that moment by his entire family and community, but God saw something in him that was undeniable. He even becomes king Saul’s armor bearer (1 Sam 16:21), a prestigious title that continued to prepare him for his eventual assignment as king.

So the next time you question your season or seasons of training, think about the humble beginnings that David walked through. He was appointed for a such a time and took hold of what he was directed and assigned to. And you know what, no matter how flawed, and how overlooked, or how broken we feel, we can too.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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A Tested Heart

Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the Lord tests the heart. Proverbs 17:3 (NLT)

Have you ever read a Bible verse and felt immediately convicted? Well, after reading this verse, I kept thinking of the many ways God tests my heart daily. I asked myself “I wonder what grade did I get and what is my average GPA in this area?” In church last weekend, we talked about the true meaning of love. This definition is defined as “disinterested benevolence” , which in a nut shell means to be “empty of all selfish intent” as our pastor delineated. I have to admit, the first thing I thought was “whew” and then I let out a sigh; realizing the many times I have come up short.

I kept thinking about that all week long, meditating on 1 Cor 13: 4-8, and repenting of conditional love or not truly displaying this type of love routinely. I was tested in this area this week and when the flesh began to rise over my spiritual desire, I had to reposition my focus and renew my mind on this verse. I had to consider the way I love and how that is seen in action by others daily.

When I read this verse in Proverbs, it made me realize the purpose of the tested heart. Like precious metals gold and silver, the heart (where our decisions, affections, desires and choices are centered around), must also be tested through fire in order to remove impurities that create love with condition, which can be rooted in selfishness. Is this a challenge? Yes, EVERYDAY! This will be challenging until we breathe our last breath on earth, but Thank God for unconditionally loving us so that we can attempt to mirror our Maker.

So, the next time you are under intense overwhelming heat and you are being tested, ask yourself: “how is my heart? how am I loving others and myself? what impurities need to be removed? and have I committed them to God for help?”

Stay Refined and Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Delighted in the Journey

The steps of a man are ordered by the Lord, who takes delight in his journey. Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed for the Lord is holding his hand. Psalm 37:23-24 (BSB)

I was thinking about this “journey” that we are all on. We are walking this life thing out daily. This life is filled with many highs, lows, ups, and downs and it is a process of “getting there”, not the end of arriving. I started asking God, “are you delighted in my journey?” I must admit, there was a twinge of conviction that flickered as I am realizing that there have been times when I clearly heard from God to do something, and I did not.

I recognize the heart of repentance cannot be void of conviction and I am grateful for even noticing. In my list of prayers that I have in my notebook, one of the them is that God’s desires become all of our desires. In thinking about what that takes to accomplish, I think this is the point of arrival. When we let Gods will and His way become paramount in our daily life, we are allowing Him to order our steps.

This takes such a heart of surrender that is often mired in our carnal nature and earthly desire to “arrive” based on material , personal, or professional achievements. But God is still so gracious and loving to understand that although we will continually fall, He has us by the hands. The journey of truly ordering our steps is the process of arriving to the fullness of our true self in Him.

Let us commit to allowing Him to assist.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Prayer

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. (Colossians 4:2)

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. (Romans 8:26)

Photo by M. u2b50 GodShepherdly 33277089* on Pexels.com

Prayer– such a powerful word often misused or taken for granted. Late 2023, I started a book on this topic entitled “Prayer” by E.M. Bounds. As soon as I began reading the pages, the information was so heavy and rich, that I realized it would take me many months to get through this book. The words are like arrows penetrating my heart and convicting me of my own prayer life. I have often said that one of the most influential individuals in the Bible for me, is praying Ana in Luke 2. Although she is mentioned very briefly, her prayer life demonstrated one in which I respect and desire to emulate.

And the Holy Spirit began pricking my heart more about this area last year. So I started this new season with a deeper longing to embody a more powerful transformative prayer life, which begins with partnering with the Holy Spirit by removing my preconceived notions on how or what to pray for. I admit there are some days when I may be overwhelmed with the world, life, or something stirring within, but knowing that God is hearing, that the Holy Spirit is operating, and that Jesus is also interceding, provides the most sacred daily experience.

This year that we are blessed to be in, will be one that we have never experienced before. We will encounter many opportunities where prayer will be the most critical element for any change, but it is not just about the prayer, it is about our commitment to Gods will and our own actions. E.M Bounds wrote something that has ministered to me very deeply. He writes, “We cannot divorce praying from conduct“. And as we seek God in prayer, I pray that we all begin to examine our ways, our life, our influence, our actions, and our faith for what we are submitting to God in prayer.

Be Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Grace In Chaos

When everything was ready, the Lord said to Noah “Go into the boat with all of your family, for among all the people of the earth, I can see that you alone are righteous. (Gen 7:1; NLT)

A male and female of each kind entered, just as God had commanded Noah. Then the Lord closed the door behind them. (Gen 7:16; NLT)

In prayer this morning, as I read through my prayer request, I had the title of this devotional written and circled. As I scrolled back virtually in my mind, I think I must have jotted this down over 4 months ago. I knew at some point God would give me the words to flesh this out and between yesterday and today, the words began to spring forth within my spirit.

This is a new year and if you have been following this spiritual journey that I have been on and if you have known me long enough, you know how much I love reading the Bible. This year me and one of my besties started a new translation where I referenced this morning’s scriptures from. After reading the experience of Noah and his family, I marveled at the grace God gave Noah (and his immediate family) during this time.

If you have never studied what occurred during that time, I recommend reading Genesis 6-9. In summary, the world had become so evil, everything you can imagine was happening at that time, similar to now. And in the midst of that, God found only one individual who was considered righteous; Noah. Think about that for a moment, only one person in the entire world had a pure heart, intention, and utter devotion to honor God.

Because of Noah, his entire family was spared and God provided grace (unmerited favor) to him and his family for Noah’s obedience and commitment to our Creator. That time must have been very chaotic and unsettling for Noah. I was imagining him watching his other family members, maybe friends, neighbors, business associates, and perhaps employees live a morally compromised life. He built that ark (large boat) by the detailed instruction according God’s commands. He did not deviate. This can only be accomplished by partnership with the Lord.

Noah was probably ridiculed and persecuted for building something that was never conceived of before. It was most likely a lonely experience, but he obeyed the instruction of the Lord. And, when everything was ready, it was God who shut the door of the ark and it was God who saved and prepared him for that time. Like Noah, God is preparing us for this time, but where are we spiritually really?

I believe that we are living in a time where we should have that Noah like obedience, faith when it does not make sense, and focus on the eternal implications of our daily earthly decisions.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Encouraged By Each Other’s Faith

For I long to see you that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you, that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.

For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” Romans 1:11-12, 17 (BSB)

Last night or should I say this morning, I had a very vivid three part dream that I immediately wrote down before it vanished from my consciousness. In part two of this dream, someone questioned me about my level of faith. In the dream, I was taken aback by the directness, but realized this morning that it tied to a devotional title I had written in the back of my Bible with these scriptural references to write about when led.

And without a shadow of a doubt, this morning, I felt led. I recognize how the world can potentially dampen our faith in what God is doing in our life. Life is hard, complicated, questionable, mysterious, burdensome, and sometimes very turbulent. But life in Christ provides us with the fruits of the Holy Spirit, to provide proper context for daily living. If you need a reminder, these fruits are: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. (Gal 5:22, BSB).

In reading Romans, 1, I reflected on Paul’s letter to this church in Rome and his desire to join with them to not only encourage them but to be encouraged by their faith. I think this is so important, especially today. God gives us others in the faith to help us stay encouraged and on track spiritually. But how many times do we try to isolate and self-manage? And how does that normally work out?

We were all given specific spiritual gifts to edify each other. Whether its wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, or being able to prophecy; they all come from the Holy Spirit (See 1 Cor 12:7-11 for the complete list). And these are given to us to assist each other, to keep each other accountable, and to help each other through life’s twists and turns.

I pray that in your time with God, He reveals to you your specific spiritual gift(s), that you embrace it/them, that you try not to isolate yourself, and that you use it to encourage your sphere of influence. There are eternal consequences and rewards that we may forget about day to day, but with the right individuals in our life, that focus will become our mainstay.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

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His Truth, His Light

“And this is the verdict: The Light has come into the world, but men loved the darkness rather than the Light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come into the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever practices the truth comes into the Light, so that it may be seen clearly that what he has done has been accomplished in God” (John 3:19-21 BSB)

I was reading the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in my morning devotion time as I was thinking about how dark the world is becoming and continues to become. In this time, I am grateful to know the Word and desire to read it, as I hope you are too. There is a new echo of His nearness that I have been feeling more and more, which if I can be honest, has made me more unsettled in my flesh. Can you feel it too?

A few weeks ago, I thought, and said out loud; “Jesus, I don’t know how you did it, but I thank You for your sacrifice”. I was astounded by what He went through and endured on account of saving us from sins that we committed and have not even committed yet. He literally went through every emotion that we have felt without sinning and then took on all of our sins, for us. That is truth. That is Light. No wonder He said “I am the way the truth and the life” (John 14:9).

Then something that I knew became more even more evident. Light makes others who do not possess it uncomfortable. The presence of the Holy Spirit can be disruptive and exposing; which many cannot appreciate. As we are led by this truth, and practice truth, in a very untruthful and evil world, it will cause chaos and commotion.

But this is the path that we are on and if we are here and if we are walking life out in faith, being led by the Spirit and not our flesh; we too will harness that light. Let us keep striving to practice truth daily. It may seem foreign to the world, but that makes sense. Even Jesus was not accepted by many, but look how much he has changed and disrupted the world, just for us.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Carefully Observant

Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples: “The scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So practice and observe everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy, burdensome loads and lay them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. (Matthew 23:1-4) BSB

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

A couple of weeks ago, I was in my morning devotional time struggling after a long week of unnecessary workplace antics. I was sitting in prayer, more so perplexed in prayer wrestling with many different emotions. As I journaled, I questioned “where do I fit in the pieces?” And in true form, as usual, the very reading that was in my plan literally addressed the exact question that I asked Heavenly Father, just moments before.

Jesus’ spoke to the disciples during His time on earth and I so felt His message is revelatory for the time and season we are in right now as His current disciples. Power and leadership have a funny way of drawing out what matters most to those that “sit in Moses’ seat” or in positions of authority. Although we are in systems, we do not have to be influenced by them. This reminded me of the significance of Romans 12:2, a verse that resides in my frontal lobe and within my spirit as I attempt to navigate my environment during these treacherous times.

And although the world’s way may get likes and accolades, what does it all mean if God is not pleased and the Holy Spirit is grieved? I know now that we really need the full armor of God to not conform, because the times will become more difficult not to fall into the enemies snare. As we continue to walk in these times, let us not be deceived by enemies subtleties. Let us stand firm in the faith and gird up-before it is too late.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Delight in His Nearness

For day after day they seek Me and delight to know My ways, like a nation that does what is right and does not forsake the justice of their God. They ask Me for righteous judgments; they delight in the nearness of God. Isaiah 58: 2 (BSB)

I chuckled when I saw this image for this devotional because if you were in my office right now, you would see three open Bibles that I use daily during my devotional time. This morning was no different as I sought God with a deeper craving for intimacy after a busy week and if I could be honest, wasted time that could have been used more constructively by putting in moments to build our relationship with intentional focused fellowship.

“Sorry Lord”, I whispered under my breath after retrospectively contemplating the many layers of these scripture versus and the busyness of this time sucking world that attempts and if we let it, win by stripping us away from precious time that could be devoted in prayer and worship. So, this morning, I reset after my repent and dwelled in His nearness and oh how delightful it was.

When reading these versus, I ventured over to one that can be a tough pill to swallow but that correlates to “delighting in His ways”. Isaiah 59:2 which was a warning to God’s people many years ago, but one in which we can apply today. Isaiah states in this verse “but your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He does not hear.” And if we are honest, I am sure something comes to mind right now that we need to surrender to Him.

“Why”? you may ask and I believe it is because it is for our best interest and for our protection. To delight in the nearness is to love what God loves and to hate what He hates. He loves us, but not our sin. He delights in us, but not in our iniquity. He will draw near to us if we draw near to Him, but that involves dying to self and turning back to Him, daily.

If you are in a space, where you sense God asking you what He asked Adam in the garden: “_______________ (your name), where are you?”, be honest, because He already knows. Spend time mediating on these versus and delight in His nearness. He has so much to tell you, but the further in sin you are, the harder it is to hear Him clearly. I am speaking from experience and recognize how tangible is His presence.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Would You Rather?

For better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than dwell in the tents of the wicked. For the LORD God is a sun and a shield; the LORD gives grace and glory; He withholds no good thing from those who walk with integrity. Psalm 84:10-11 (BSB)

I stumbled upon these beautiful scripture verses a few weeks ago. At the time, I was working my way through the book of Psalm as part of reading through the Bible in a year. I etched out a note in the back of the Bible, because the imagery and contrast by the author lept off the page and into my heart. These verses described perfectly how I have been feeling lately.

Everything is changing rapidly and finding moments to reflect on what is truly important, leads to new found revelation. In just looking at these verses, it is clear what matters most to the author. To be near to God in any capacity supercedes all other company; especially those who are not of God.

I started to think about times when I allowed others to occupy a space and consume valuable time that could have been spent just dwelling in His presence. I had to ask for forgiveness since I now recognize how much more precious it is to sit at the feet of Jesus, even if just at His doorstep. A moment alone with Him, provides such peace, clarity, and love-something the world continues to attempt to take away.

God is so very near, but how much time are we giving away on frivolity and unrestricted company? I thank Him for being there. For being sun and shield, warmth and shade, covering and protection. I pray that we can meditate on these verses and get back to what matters- devoting focused time in His presence without conflict of interest.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Maintain Order

A land in rebellion has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order. Proverbs 28:2 (BSB)

I have to say again as I have said many times in previous posts that although I have read the book of Proverbs over many years, when I read this chapter and verse, it just “hit differently” today. I guess one of the reasons is due to everything that I observe happening in this fallen world and how so much of it is rooted in that word rebellion. I looked up the word in the Oxford languages dictionary and it is defined as : “an act of violent or open resistance to an established government or ruler“. I then remembered the verse specifically describing rebellion in the Bible in 1 Samuel 15:23, when Saul decided to be disobedient and the consequences of his decision, which cost him his kingship and eventually his life as well as his lineage.

I guess the reason God led me down this path is because of a book that I am currently journeying in by Pastor John Bevere entitled the Awe of God, which I highly recommend if you are ready to dive into the importance of the fear of the Lord. This week I am reading all about obedience and it is sobering to see just in my own life the “many rulers” which had occupied my existence, until I sought deep repentance and forgiveness. You can see all around what rebellion is doing to the world and in the nations we occupy.

We are being ruled by many things daily that have become a priority over God and His divine order, not the carnal worlds disorder. If God is not the author of confusion 1 Cor 14:33, then who do we think is creating the chaos and disruption that we see and experience daily? Just this morning,I asked God for forgiveness if I have allowed anything to compete for His headship and lordship over my life. I challenge you to do the same. Our many rulers can be in the form of our pride, ego, career objectives, relationships, habits, and hangups. The many rulers can be good things like goals that become idols and place God in second place.

As you search out your own moral compass and commit them to God, consider the following to meditate on: Matthew 6:33, 1 Peter 1:13-16 and James 4. This “race” is not for the faint of heart and we may all start the journey with proper footing, but what is of utmost importance is will we finish well?

Be Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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When We Know Better

For if we deliberately go on sinning after receiving the knowledge of truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins. Hebrews 10:26 CSB

Earlier this year, there were three words that I committed to God to assist me in: healing, intention, and transition; all of which I am or have been doing. As I think more on the word intention, I have sought God through a lot of prayer and fasting to continue to remove certain sins out of my life that if I can be fully transparent, I did not want to let go of, but the gravitational pull to draw even more closer to Him kept echoing in my spirit. The best way to describe how I have been feeling is from a quote from Ellen G. White- “the closer you become to Jesus, the more faulty you appear in your own eyes”.

One thing that I have been more intentional about is what I watch or listen to daily, because for me, I am fully aware how that may impact my behavior. So, last night while folding clothes, I listened to this testimony from this young man who was struggling in his walk, just like we all are. He noted that as he committed certain sins that would grieve the Holy Spirit, he would hear Hebrews 10:26 in his head. After finally surrendering his entire self to the process, he began to meditate on the verse that states that God will give us a way of escape ( 1 Cor 10:13) and began to apply it to every temptation.

I reflected on what he shared and could most definitely relate to earlier years (and now) when what I wanted superseded what the Holy Spirit desired and as a consequence, I created unnecessary trouble. Can you relate? If you are honest with yourself and our Heavenly Dad, then I am sure something immediately comes to the surface of your mind. Although sobering, I was very thankful to hear that testimony yesterday. It gave me a different perspective on what “dying to self daily” truly means. The beauty of our life is that we have been saved by grace through faith (Eph 2:8-9). God loves us, He forgives us, and He wants the best for us. And when we know better, we should desire to do better.

I pray that on this Father’s Day, we can all reflect on the importance of honoring our Heavenly Father more intentionally through our willful obedience faithfully.

Stay Encouraged.

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A Multi-Hyphenate Servant

“I am sending you a master craftsman—my famous Huramabi! He is a brilliant man, the son of a Jewish woman from Dan in Israel; his father is from here in Tyre. He is a skillful goldsmith and silversmith, and also does exquisite work with brass and iron and knows all about stonework, carpentry, and weaving; and he is an expert in the dyeing of purple and blue linen and crimson cloth. He is an engraver besides, and an inventor! He will work with your craftsmen and those appointed by my lord David, your father. So send along the wheat, barley, olive oil, and wine you mentioned. 2 Chronicles 2:13-15 (TLB)

A couple of weeks ago, during my quiet Bible reading time, I re-read the story about Solomon’s mission to build the temple for the Lord. A temple that if you read through all the detailed intricacies involved in its construction, the instructions had to have come from God. During the beginning stages of development, Solomon requested a craftsman from Huram king of Tyre, whom his father reached out to prior when David was building his own home.

This king of Tyre responded with the perfect person-Huramabi. When I read all of the skills that God equipped Huramabi with, I began to think about how God set up the exact person that Solomon would need to not only be a creative, but to also be a master craftsman and so much more. In modern day terminology, Huram-abi would be described as a multi-hyphenate . He not only knew how to work with precious metals, but he knew how to use stone and wood and make use of linen as well as being a professional engraver. It was even noted that he could “execute any design that is given him” (verse 14-BSB).

As I mused on Huram-abi’s variety of skills, I thought about our many gifts, talents, and innate abilities that God has placed in us- some we have not used, take for granted, or let grow dormant due to “life lifing”. I started to wonder what all of our multi-hyphenates are and if we are investing time into discovering them and utilizing them for God’s glory. Then I pondered, what if we all intentionally invested in our God-given skills a little bit each day. Imagine what He could do through us, how much we could assist others, how pleased He would be and maybe just maybe we would discover His purpose in us that those around us and ourselves would see?

I challenge you to consult with God about what type of skills you have that He has given you that you have not used or tapped into. When we find the thing that draws us into closer understanding of our purpose in Him, we find out who we are, why we are here, which inherently continues to draw Him near.

Stay encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Inquire of God

And David realized that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and had highly exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel.

Now the Philistines had come and raided the Valley of Rephaim. So David inquired of God, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go” replied the Lord, “for I will deliver them into your hand.”

Once again the Philistines raided the valley. So David again inquired of God, who answered him, “Do not march up after them but circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees.” As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle, because this will mean that God has marched out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines.” 1 Chronicles 14: 2,9-10, 13-15 (BSB)

I was recently re-reading the story of David’s acceleration into leadership and was amazed again of his process. I was also very grateful to read about the level of intimacy he shared with God our Father, as I desire to emulate this type of relationship-where every moment of inquiry provides life details that I need for the next phase of my journey, according to His perfect will.

When I read about David, I think of that bible verse written in Zechariah 4:10 that notes “do not despise the day of small beginnings”. If we were to rewind and look back into David’s early part of his life, he was a shepherd, disregarded by his earthly family, but chosen by God who would eventually exalt him to kingship status over all of Israel; God’s beloved nation.

I was thinking about how David’s audience of family, employees, servants, adversaries, naysayers, and allies might have felt or thought as many witnessed the favor that God had for him. But this was not just because he was David. He had a very deep and intimate relationship with God. He talked to God and God answered. God not only answered once, but repeatedly and with different sets of instructions as you see in this scriptural selection. God even specifically told David which trees (balsam trees) and where to stand to attack the Philistines (in front of the balsam trees).

In reading about this type of tree, it would have been easier for David and his army to hide behind them. The balsam tree is an evergreen which according to a blog entitled Balsam Tree Strategy by John Curtis, “balsam is a conifer, an evergreen, which would make good cover but also a tree which would not make much noise even when blown by the wind”. God had very specific directions for David to only attack from the front but to listen out for the “sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees”. Only God’s army would have been able to march on the tops of an evergreen. What magnificent specific instructions and follow through right?

This was reminder for me and I hope for you too, to ask God first,listen intently, and obey. Many times we consult varying resources, which may be great counsel, but He is the chief Counsel of our life, which requires that we inquire of Him first before others. So lets inquire of God like David. If you decide to read more of David’s story, you will see that he “did as God commanded him…” ( verse 16). So not only is asking God essential, but obeying is as important. What God has in mind for us is to be the “head and not the tail” (Deut 28:13), which requires a level of faithfulness and divine obedience so that we will not fail.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Moment to Moment

Seek the Lord and His strength, seek His presence continually! 1 Chronicles 16:11 (ESV)

I was listening to a podcast recently about inviting God into every part of our life. One of the women speaking mentioned focusing on Him in the moment. When she said this, although a very simplistic statement, it made my spirit flutter as I started to understand the importance of one of my three words for the new year: intention. How intentional one must become to acknowledge God moment to moment.

And in thinking about what that represents, the most insignificant detail that we think of becomes very poignant. Our journey in this life is filled with many moments that build on each other that become the fabric of our experiences and the tapestry of our spiritual development. If God is not in the moments of our existence, then how can He be the center of our life? I had to sit with that over the last couple of days as one of the other words for the new year is unfolding: transition.

Seeking Him in the little moments provides so much strength for the valleys and mountains that we face day to day. In the moment, gratitude surfaces and I become more aware of His presence when I consider the minute details that He created for my benefit. I may not have thought that they were important, but in this stance of gratefulness, my last word for the new year continues to occur: healing.

So in your day to day, whether you consider it mundane or magnificent, think on the moment to moments with God-continually.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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YESHUA

Yeshua said, “I AM the Way — and the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father except through me”. John 14:6 (CJB)

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Everyday this week, a song with the title of todays devotional has been the first thing on my mind and within my spirit each morning when I awake. And today, which is a day that we reflect on the tumultuous journey Jesus had to walk through to complete His assignment, the word “Yeshua” just kept penetrating. So like anyone else, I went online to research the meaning of the word which brought me right back to Jesus’ mission and meaning.

One of the meanings of “Yeshua” is “The Lord is Salvation”. No wonder the Holy Spirit kept bringing this to my forefront day after day. And if He is the way and the Truth and the Life, then it makes sense then why He is considered “the Savior”, not one of but the only. Every time this year, I am humbled more and more when I think about what it took to physically walk through the pain of being rejected, tormented, accused, oppressed, hated, betrayed and abandoned by the very people that He came to save and the very people that He died for in a very painful and horrific way.

But He did and oh how fortunate we are to have someone to stand in for us and die for us because of our sins and wicked ways. So today, as you enter into a holy weekend, remember the sacrifice and the obedience Jesus demonstrated for us, not Him. Think about how much love and selflessness that would take and how much He-Jesus had to humble himself for us. It says something about the character of Jesus the Christ. And remember today, if He did not obey His own call, we would not have eternal life.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Replenisher

This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: “When I restore them from captivity ^b, they will once again speak the word in the land of Judah and in its cities: ‘May the Lord bless you, O righteous dwelling place, O holy mountain.’ And Judah and all its cities will dwell together in the land, the farmers and those who move with the flocks, for I will refresh the weary soul and replenish all who are weak. ” Jeremiah 31: 23-25 (BSB) ^b ^{Or restore their fortunes}

This morning, as I arose, a bit weary from the past few weeks as the semester draws to a close, I watched from my balcony, the rain cascading off of the plants as the sparrows intermittently approached the dew filled flower petals. I usually do not sit very long to watch this transpire, but yesterday after discussing the power of mindfulness with my students, I took a “slide out of my own lecture” and decided to spend time just watching and being present.

After a few minutes, I thought about how God replenishes everything around us and in us. Then in usual fashion, a word began to percolate within, causing me to meditate more on the word replenish, which led me right to Jeremiah. And if this was not a word for me and you today, I do not know what is. I am sure, like me, you could use a refresh and desire to be replenished right ?

The world in all its busyness can take, take, and take until we are running on empty-physically, emotionally, financially, and most importantly, spiritually. But then God reminds us where we are to dwell before we reach this state; Him. As you ready for the day, make time with Him so that He can replenish you in your weariness. We often allow what is outside of us to strip us from His loving care and attentiveness.

But we have the power to change that. So, as you are reading this, pause for moment. Take in what He is doing around you. Focus your thoughts on His presence within you and meditate on the promises that He has already given you. Last but definitely not least, thank Him for replenishing you.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Expansion of Favor

And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the Lord and with man (1 Samuel 2:26) BSB

And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. (Luke 2:52) BSB

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About a week ago, as I studied the Word, I found myself reading the verse in 1 Samuel and remembered reading similar words in the book of Luke. Again, I continually find myself in awe when God highlights a detail in His life’s instruction manual that resonates. After my time this morning with Him, I felt the prompting to re-read the Old Testament verse and locate its New Testament compliment.

In reading these mirrored verses, I started to thank God for His grace (that unmerited favor) in my own life as I have seen Him move in ways that I sometimes have a hard time believing myself if I was not going through these life events. God has a way of showing us how much He loves us through others, even in dark times.

And when we fully embrace, let go of our own need to control, and submit to His leading, we see this over and over again. Both the boy Samuel and the younger Jesus, had a unique calling for their life and over time they both grew not just physically, but spiritually, mentally, and relationally with our Father. They also became more respected and valued in the eyes of men.

We have to remember that when God is in the midst of our situation and top priority in our life, He will ensure that favor finds us, not just with Him but expanded through others. This morning, take some time, reflect on His goodness, His mercy, His favor, and thank Him. We are living in very volatile times, where everything is topsy turvy, but with God, a curve ball can be converted into an unusual blessing.

The best way I can think of to explain this is through His Word. I challenge you to dwell on the verses above and to meditate on Ephesians 3:20-21 (BSB), Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call, Complete Your Assignment.

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Increase in Love

May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else. 1 Thessalonians 3:12 (NIV)

I have this mini-calendar that a friend gifted me a couple of years ago with daily Bible verses as a word of encouragement. As I stumbled on today’s verse in my waking slumber, I stared at it intently, thinking to myself, “God that is exactly what we need to hear”. I am sure like me, you have been feeling and seeing the turmoil around you wondering where are we headed as a people? I think about this daily as I witness how insensitive we have become towards each other. It is sickening and disheartening and when re-reading this verse, I began to check my own heart and pray.

In order for our love to increase, we must seek and grow in love with the One who created us. I think back to a time when I turned my back towards God’s love, when I stopped investing in our interactions daily, and when I allowed the world to dictate how I felt and responded towards others. But then, He gently tugged at my heart and pulled me out of the world-influenced quagmire and redirected me to one of the most important attributes that we should display and walk out each day: Love.

I hope that today and each day moving forward, we can demonstrate the love of Christ to others we encounter; and yes I know what you are thinking, “even my enemies?” Yes, even your enemies (Matthew 5:44). Treat others the way you would want to be treated. Overflow in it each day. God, I wish everyone would get to this place. Could you imagine for a minute what this would create and how much hate could be erased?

Stay encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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His Specific Word

Then Moses said to Aaron, “Tell the whole congregation of Israel, ‘Come before the LORD, for He has heard your grumbling.’ ” And as Aaron was speaking to the whole congregation of Israel, they looked toward the desert, and there in a cloud the glory of the LORD appeared. Then the LORD said to Moses, “I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God.’ ” Exodus 16:9-11(BSB)

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I cannot tell you how many times I have read these Bible verses before and of course in my quiet time with God, my spiritual ears perked up and I had this new found desire to read more. I find it interesting that I never really picked up before that God spoke directly to Moses in the cloud of glory, although the entire congregation of Israel, including Aaron were present.

The Lord even said to Moses, “Tell them”. I mean this is God, the most powerful and supreme being who created everything in the universe including us. He did not need a man to speak on His behalf, but He chose one man specifically for that time to be a conduit for His voice.

I thought to myself, “Wow, God, how moving”. This relationship between God and Moses points out a very important fact to me. If Moses did not have an intimate relationship with the Lord God, he may have been just like one of the spectators; watching the cloud from a distance in the desert, but not actually hearing the voice of God.

I started to think about many who are just like that today. People we know, love or maybe even dislike. Friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances that are so distant from God, unable to receive a specific word from Him, which incidentally leads to that deep haunting feeling of being lost.

I was there a few times in my life, which was due to my stubbornness, blatant disobedience and inability to surrender. I wonder how many specific words I may have missed in those moments, but am grateful that God still desires to draw near to me as I draw near to Him (James 4:8). What about you my friend? Can you hear Him? Are you searching for Him or observing from a distance? I feel deeply the need to ask you to reconsider your relationship with our Father and go the distance by seeking Him first a little further.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Inner Sanctuary

And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings according to the pattern I show you. Exodus 25:8-9 (BSB)

At the start of this year and to be quite honest, the end of last year, I started to think of a few words that would help me categorize what would represent 2023; a year I sense is even more profound than the ones previously. I settled on healing, intention, and transition. As the holidays passed and the birth of a new year encroached the horizon of time, I felt a bit lost, out of my element, like a baby deer trying to find her way out of a wilderness.

I searched and searched for God, tried to hear Him, see Him, and touch Him, recognizing that it was me all along pushing back on my ability to draw closer to Him due to my failed attempts at controlling things outside of my control. I began to ask Him why and He showed me the areas in my heart, wounded by life, time, self, and others that had never properly healed, filled with a temporary layer, like a cut with just a band-aid. So, I began a new journey, and set out to be more intentional on healing.

As I sat with God this morning, I began to ask Him to show me more about me that He has made that I forgot was there, and in my reading this morning, He pointed me back to these bible verses, which ironically, reminded me of a devotional that I wrote around this time last year entitled According to His Pattern. God directed me right back to the importance of my inner sanctuary, that needs to be emptied of placeholders, so that He can truly dwell within. This is the only way for true healing to begin and in my transition, I am reminded daily that I can only truly trust in Him.

As I journeyed down to the end of verse nine, I read His command to Moses. He made it clear that He would show Him exactly how He wanted things designed, and if He did it for Moses and the Israelites, then He will do the same for you and me, in His time.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Heart Guard

Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life. (Proverbs 4:23) BSB

Not too long ago, I could feel my heart becoming more hardened by the injustice that is continually increasing. I am sure you can relate to seeing and almost feeling like the enemy is gaining ground. But then I felt the push to spend more time in worship, knowing that I just needed to redirect my focus on who matters most. I was thankful for the conviction to do so and to just forgive those who are obilivous to their aggregious actions.

I had to shift my attention to who God represents and think on His love. As I began to worship, my spirit was not connected to His presence and then I began to tune myself to His frequency which filled me with so much love and joy all I could do was continue to praise Him. I mentioned in previous devotionals that I was led to re-read Proverbs and now I know why.

God always knows what we need to draw us back to Him and since His love is so welcoming, all I needed was to reflect back on his goodness and not be overcome by the filth of this worlds corruption. Today and everyday, we desperately need to be intentional about protecting our heart and that first begins with acknowledging who we have let in it. Even the most subtle comment or blatant act can distract us. If we are not careful in examining what is within us, we may be consumed by the evil around us.

God was reminding me again to be alert in this season, to stay focused on His presence, to be diligent about my thoughts and actions, to remain upright, to not lose sight and to allow His love to flow out like a spring as a representative of His light.

Stay Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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His Understanding Will Guide You

For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will delight your soul. Discretion will watch over you, and understanding will guard you, to deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perversity, from those who leave the straight paths to walk in the ways of darkness. Proverbs 2:10-13 (BSB)

Lady Wisdom will be your close friend, and Brother Knowledge your pleasant companion. Good sense will scout ahead for danger, insight will keep an eye out for you. They’ll keep you from making wrong turns, or following the bad directions. Of those who are lost themselves and can’t tell a trail from a tumbleweed. Proverbs 2:10-13(MSG)

Well, this morning, I realized why I was led to start re-reading Proverbs again, especially now. The need for divine wisdom and discernment for our own protection is such a critical priority, that the feeling will not leave me; drawing me into deeper intimacy. God has been waking me up earlier and earlier each day this week to highlight to me the importance of NOW. As I read these verses in different iterations, I kept thinking about the bible verse in 2 Thessalonians 2 regarding a strong delusion that will be sent during the end times to those who refuse to believe the truth.

It almost feels like that is where are right now. But God wants to deliver us from any way of evil that would try to ensnare us into darkness. And this can only be completed by becoming insistent on cultivating and strengthening our relationship with Him. This involves our seeking Him intentionally daily, minute by minute, and sometimes second by second so that we not only harness the fear of the Lord, but also that we being to receive much needed wisdom during this perilous season.

Harnessing knowledge creates a path that will keep us safe and provide a way of escape. It also gives us foresight, hindsight, and divine sight. We can see clearly through the dark and the murkiness of the atmosphere. We can remain calm and at peace in these unstable environments. We are more discerning of the time and lead life with Him at the forefront of our mind.

I encourage you to dive back into Proverbs. It literally enveloped me this morning in a deeper truth about what we are all witnesses to everyday. I know that we are all here for such a time as this. (Esther 4:14). Everyday, I am in awe of God more as He exposes me to certain realities and permits me to really see the hidden message by worldly messengers. He is teaching everyday that wisdom, knowledge, and understanding supersede offense, contention, and frustration. I pray as His children we become more aware of His leading, and that we take delight of how much He loves us and that even if we see differently in the natural, that He is ultimately in control.

Stay Encouraged and Stay Seeking Wisdom.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Intention over Idleness

She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Proverbs 31:27 (ESV)

Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil. Proverbs 4: 25-27 (ESV)

A couple of weeks ago, in the midst of a conversation with a friend, I mentioned that I kept hearing the word intention bubbling within me, as I sensed that “being very intentional” next year would be critical. She too agreed as many decisions that will need to be made next year, start now as we posture ourselves correctly. Then this morning in my prayer time, the word idle came up as the antithesis of being intentional.

I began to think about ways to avoid idleness and was directed to the book in the Bible known for wisdom- Proverbs. I take it as a cue to start reading Proverbs this month as we approach a new year since the action steps in my path to get to this new year begin in this present time.

I think the reason this has been something on my mind recently is because I know God has many plans that if I am not invested in my development through Him and intentionally seeking Him, I might miss it. I asked God for His guidance to keep me on the narrow path and to not lose focus, to tend to my affairs, to remain rooted in Him and to be more intentional about what and who I am around, listening to, and interacting with.

I know for me that the only way my feet can remain sure is to tap into His instruction and guidance even more. But this requires dedicated time in His presence, a determination to act in intention, and focus on the decisions made day to day, that will in the end, impact the final destination.

Stay Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Level Up

“So, Jeremiah, if you’re worn out in this footrace with men, what makes you think you can race against horses? And if you can’t keep your wits during times of calm, what’s going to happen when troubles break loose like the Jordan in flood?” Jeremiah 12:5 MSG

Have you ever complained to God about some difficulty, trial, or storm that you were dealing with and the response you received was to stay in it to win it? I am raising my hand right now as I typed this. I think this is why I can relate to this chapter in Jeremiah. Jeremiah was going through it and in the early verses of this chapter was complaining to God about the state of affairs. He was tired of the wickedness and those who were not of God prospering during his time. Sound familiar?

But there was something that stirred in my spirit when I reached down to this selection verse above. It made me think of the coming time when “the last will be first and the first will be last” (Matthew 20:16). And I sense we are getting very close to this revelation, but it takes preparation. One just doesn’t metaphorically race with horses. The fastest horse reported to date can run 55mph compared to the fastest human reported at 8 mph.

Remember, God knew what Jeremiah was capable of and why he placed him in that time and season. This is the same with us. We may be weary as we contend with men, but we are being built from the inside out when the spiritual chariots of horses come. We cannot jump to the end of our race, we have to go through it. We may fall, acquire callouses, and become discouraged, but in these times, allow God to grow you in your spirit. Things are breaking loose all around, and we need to be ready to occupy the areas that are becoming available.

Trust God in this season. He is the only one that possesses all revelation and spiritual reasoning. If weariness tries to overtake you as you interact with others this week, call on the name of Jesus, seek direction from the Holy Spirit, and walk in that way. We have to learn to crawl before we walk, walk before we run and run before we race. The beauty is that we are not alone. We are surrounded by others rooting for us, interceding on behalf of us and running with us.

Stay Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Prioritize Patience

By your patience possess your souls (Luke 21:19) NKJV

I was never one who particularly enjoyed patience. I guess that is the “go-go-go” nature within me. It was not until I was really forced to become patient a few years back after a health setback that I realized what you learn about yourself during the “long suffering” process. As I read Luke 21 this morning, and pondered on the disciples and Jesus’ interaction related to the sign of the times, this Bible verse positioned me right back to patience and I became enthralled about its priority in this season.

I know you may be experiencing some type of discomfort, a period of shaking, an uncertainty of what is next and even perhaps persecution by others. And these are all things that we must understand have to happen for what is to be revealed. Jesus provides information for His disciples during those times and since His Word is living, He is also giving us clues and comforts of what to expect.

Our soul; that piece of us that can either be run by the world (our flesh) or ruled by our spirit (connecting us to the leading of the Holy Spirit) is constantly being tested. Of course no one likes to experience of trials, afflictions, temptations, and storms, but during these times, we end up truly seeing who we rely on. I remember having a conversation with someone about not “fitting in” and I reminded the both of us that we can never truly fit into the world’s standards, if we are led by the Holy Spirit.

Possessing something means to have complete ownership of it. And if you just look around your current environment, on social media, on the television, you can see what this world is truly becoming-aggressively. Nothing makes sense these days, people are losing love and empathy and the world is becoming more manipulated by evil and greed. I had to ask myself a hard question as I thought about the tug of war on the soul. I asked, “what is all this world worth, for me to lose my soul to accomplish some man-made goal?” or to “live in alignment and one day in eternity with the One who sits on the throne?”

As you move through your week, I challenge you to read Luke 21. Identify outside influences that may be trying to steer you off guard and ask God to help you resist what He has not intended for you and consult the Holy Spirit for proper direction that must start within.

Stay encouraged and vigilent.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Revisit Your Prayer List

First of all, then I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. This is right and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2: 1-4) NRSV

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

I was recently in prayer recently with a group of students that I advise. I have been more intentional about including all leaders and everyone in positions of leadership on our prayer list. Being in a position of leadership requires a certain level of resolve and wisdom, that is not earthly derived. Some think that leadership and being in a position of power are the same thing.

However, there are many people in the world that are in positions of power, but are not equipped to be a leader. This can be devastating for any organization; especially in this volatile economy flooded with workplace instability. When I came across this verse, I was reminded by Paul, who was writing to his “spiritual son” Timothy about the need to pray, intercede and offer thanks for everyone. This led me to become more fervent about those I pray for daily, including those in positions of power.

I had to revisit my prayer list as there were those that I did not include but know the power of prayer and how deeply rooted we must be in prayer in order to navigate where we are and what is coming. Leaders without wisdom, discernment, or integrity are weapons that can be used by the enemy. I am sure you can think of a few leaders right now that you either know directly or indirectly that have been used by the enemy in this way, which created chaos, confusion, and many counterproductive environments.

But God desires that we lead a “quiet and peaceable life”, not one marred with unfruitfulness and strife. I thought to myself, “imagine what could happen if we all made the decision to pray for our leaders, pray for everyone that we encounter, and intercede for others?” If we are truly here to be lights, to be a representative of Christ, then let us consider who we include on our prayer list and thank God for that powerful gift of divine sight.

Stay encouraged and pray without ceasing.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Abound in Hope

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13) NRSV

Have you ever read a Bible verse and felt, “this is exactly what I need to read today”. Well, that was me this morning as the tiredness of the week attempted to steal the true joy, peace, and hope that only God can provide. As I read the word abound, I wanted to know more about it as it was linked to the word hope, which happens to be my middle name. I guess when my mom named me, she knew how important that word would resonate with me all my life.

The word abound correlates to overflow and what a wonderful existence to have an overflow of hope. Hope is the expectation of things to come that can provide great peace, even in the midst of adversity and weariness. Being filled with all joy can only be accomplished by allowing the Holy Spirit in, so that the power of the Holy Spirit can literally ooze out of us which can literally remove the worries and the cares of life that this current world beats down on us.

I had to read this verse about 7 times just to take in what was being delivered. I had to ask God to let it be rooted in me and to carry it with me through this month. As I am minding my business and being more intentional about that, I am also protecting my heart, which is linked to the feelings and the fruit that I produce. And I desire for the overflow of hope, that I be filled with God’s joy and peace and that I make every effort to invite the Holy Spirit in this journey of my life. But it takes the act of intention, the casting off of troubles and placing His armor on each and every day.

Can I get an Amen?

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Mind Your Business

…But we urge you beloved, to do so more and more, to aspire to live quietly, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we directed you, so that you may behave properly toward outsiders and be dependent on no one. (1 Thessalonians 4:10-12) NRSV

Aspire to lead a calm and peaceful life as you mind your own business and earn your living, just as we’ve taught you. By doing this you will live an honorable life, influencing others and commanding respect of even the unbelievers. (1 Thessalonians 4:10-12) TPT

In my devotional time this morning, I read this verse in several versions and thought to myself, how practical the word of God really is for daily living. I chuckled to myself and thought, we are being told to “mind our own business“. This is something that we may say to others or think about when interacting with others and here in the living Word of God, we are told do just that. And to be honest, I cannot think of a time when this mattered more.

It is so easy to get “caught up” in what people are doing, not doing, pretending to be doing or blatantly disregarding, but at the end of the day, that’s not our business. We have so much more to be focused on… what God desires for us, which requires our focus, attention, and correct position. I needed this as a reminder after having a particularly frustrating day when my fleshy self wanted to react negatively about the actions and demonstrations of others and then I heard God say to me, “focus on what I have you to do”, which I interpreted as, “mind your business”.

There is something so freeing about walking this text out and to be transparent, when I read this, there was like a light bulb that went off and I had to get aligned to this instruction. It produces so much more in the long run as it provides the opportunity to not only be a light in this corrupt, evil and narcissistic world, but it even has influence on others that we interact with; even non-believers.

This was another wake up call as we enter a new month at the end of a very interesting year. I have decided to commit to this for the rest of this year and focus on being intentional about it. We cannot get back time and the world can be very demanding, but focusing on what God is asking you to do, must be primary, so lets focus on just that and prevent whatever or whomever comes to try to distract.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

Stay Encouraged

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Get Up & Go

I asked, ‘What am I to do, Lord?’ The Lord said to me, ‘Get up and go to Damascus; there you will be told everything that has been assigned to you to do.’ Acts 22:10 (NRSV)

I was recently reading the book of Acts during my Bible study time and became enriched in my spirit after receiving a reminder of Paul (formerly known as Saul’s) journey. I am so thankful for the truth that is layered throughout God’s word; especially in this time we are living in, when the world’s view of truth is the exact opposite. As I read this chapter, this dialogue jumped out at me and I became encouraged about the journey of uncertainty.

The journey of uncertainty can often feel like a blessing and a curse. And if I can be honest, many times we allow what we feel to control how we handle the unknown. More common than not, God will give us the information that we need in our season at the time we need it, not before, but in the present time. Of course we would like to know what to expect, but I am learning by leaps and bounds in this current time of my life what “faith without works is dead” (James 2:14) really means.

I am sure Paul had many moments in his life when even though he did not know what was up ahead, he received clear instructions from God to just go. Here we see in Acts, Paul recalling his own process of dealing with the unknown terrain: obedience and surrender. I am not sure where you are on your path, but what I do know is that it is very uncertain, because life is just that; uncertain.

But in the uncertainty, do not become overwhelmed by the “what if’s”. Use your faith to say yes to where He is calling you to, or drawing out of you. God is way smarter than us. We may think we know what is best for our life, but we are often led carnally and He is more concerned about where we will spend eternity. When He calls, just obey, because at the end of the day…. He is the only Way.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

Stay Encouraged.

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The Weight of Opportunity

…..”Great gifts mean great responsibilities; greater gifts, greater responsibilities!” Luke 12:48 (MSG)

…..”From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded”. Luke 12:48 (BSB)

…..”Much will be required of everyone who has been given much. And even more will be expected of the one who has been entrusted with more”. Luke 12:48 (HCSB)

I recently read a post that stated “opportunity is calling, will you answer?” In reading this post I started to think about the dichotomy of opportunity. On one hand it’s exciting and on the other hand it’s burdensome. It can feel heavy and light at the same time. As we receive more opportunity, then more responsibility ensues. This thought drew me back to Luke. I have been reading this chapter over the course of the month as I work my way through the Bible again this year. I read this verse a few weeks back, underlined it and asked God why it kept resonating day after day, not realizing that I would experience this weighted blessing in the near future.

As I began to read this verse in different biblical iterations, I shifted my focus on what God is asking of me and in turn what is required from me. Surrendering our life and will to His is not a natural feeling by any means. It requires separation of self and intense periods of pruning and preparation. God blesses us all with many gifts and inherent abilities that are designed to be sown into the world, but we have the free will to decide how we will use what He has given.

Sometimes the opportunity that is on our doorstep is wrapped up in other’s expectations, our worries, doubt in ourselves and the opinions of man. But, if God presents something to us, which is His will for us and we move in faith, then our response will become what seems to many and even to ourselves as unnatural or even unpopular. This movement is not something that just happens overnight. We literally have to partner with Him which takes a certain level of spiritual diligence to hear when He is drawing us to another level.

As we continue to walk this walk of endurance facing the weight and all of the pressure, let us fully understand that we are not in this alone and if He has provided an opportunity for us, then He will assist in carrying the load with us. Trust His process, not the world’s pressure.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Worthy Fruits

Bear fruits worthy of repentance (Luke 3:8) NRSV

I am pretty fortunate to live in a location where fresh fruits are everywhere. I often visit the local markets to pick up the fresh produce that local farmers have sown and reaped. As I thought about the fruit stands, I was reminded of this verse in Luke. In this passage, John the Baptist is speaking to a crowd full of people including the Pharisees and the Sadducees petitioning not only that audience, but us as well to- examine our ways.

I studied this verse and have been thinking about this verse since early this week, asking God what it means and how it pertains to the life of believers in this time right now. To bear something is to endure and what we produce in our life including our actions is the fruit that should be in alignment with Gods will for us; not what the world desires to see. Living a life in deep repentance requires a level of humility, that, to be honest is very rare to see these days.

Many, even in church systems, perform instead of produce and those actions are not rooted in revelation but more so demonstration. And to be transparent, there was a time in my own life when I thought performing was producing, until I realized that my spiritual walk was stunted and I felt far from God although I thought I was doing “holy” things to please man instead of prioritizing God.

I am thankful for this reminder of what true repentance represents. Turning away from that act of religion and devoting time to true relationship with God, the Body of Christ and to all has caused death to pride and has given me more access to His grace. What we are sowing daily can either produce the fruit that as John the Baptist states is “worthy of repentance” or be just for show without any long term sustenance.

I pray that we all continue to examine what we are doing, saying and becoming each day. As God continues to highlight areas that require repentance and submission, let us all so diligently seek His guidance and His gentle embrace.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

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Grace in the Wilderness

This is what the Lord says: “The people who survived the sword found favor in the wilderness when Israel went to find rest”. Jeremiah 31:2 (BSB)

I know when reading this title you may be thinking the same thing as I did when I wrote this down a few months ago-“What a paradox”. I thought that too but even more recently, I have come to appreciate the grace of God in the midst of the wilderness. The wilderness can represent many facets in our life. It can be a place where we are being pressed, a season of trauma healing, a period of wrestling, a moment of loneliness, a time of pruning or a walk in uncertainty-all of which we usually do not want to experience but are essential for our growth.

And if we think about the wilderness season as a time of deep introspection and dwelling in God’s presence, even in isolation, we can see the hand of God in our life. And although in the moment, we may feel like we are the only ones who had to journey through the desert place, we are not. If we look back on the life of Moses and Abraham, the people of Israel, John the Baptist and even Jesus Himself, they all had to endure that time in their life to propel them into their next phase. The same goes for both me and you.

I believe we are all in this place in some way shape or form, and we all need to seek the Holy face of God as we make our way through our process. Our life is a continuous journey that ebbs and flows, that is high and low, that is up and down and that is vibrant and dull. If you are in what you anticipate as the low in your life or a walk in the wilderness, thank God for His grace in the wilderness. God will give us what we need- even what we think we do not want in order to uproot us out of the limitations in our mind. Be patient in your wilderness, have faith in God in your journey, listen intently when He speaks and do not be afraid to go the distance in your desert like experience. This too shall pass and God is molding you to be built to last.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

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Move in Mercy

Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had on you? Matthew 18:33 (BSB)

Mercy. I know you have heard of that word before and maybe have used it many times. When I read this verse this morning, I asked myself a question that I will rhetorically ask you: “Are you moving in mercy?” You might be asking yourself, what does that really mean, as I did as well. If I am being transparent, I know that there are times when the need to move in mercy should occur more frequently if I allowed the Holy Spirit to operate effectively.

But what is mercy really? I am glad you asked. A befitting definition that I recently read in the book Life in Tension by Dr. Stephen W. Hiemstra, describes that mercy has the “same root as compassion and is closely related to forgive”. And being merciful means “being concerned about people in their need”. Jesus is an example of demonstrating mercy at the highest level by dying for our sins. If we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus on the earth today, what does that tell us about how we should model after Him?

Jesus came for us, sinners. He came for those who hated Him, who did not and do not believe in Him and those who would and will deny Him. In reading over this verse, which is based on a parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18: 21-35), I felt the stir to examine my own heart and actions regarding mercy. I pray that we not only have the word mercy as part of our repertoire, but that our ability to move in mercy becomes a core component of who we are.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

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Growth Mindset

Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundations from dead works, and of faith in God. Hebrews 6:1 (BSB)

Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation. 1 Peter 2:2 (BSB)

A few weeks ago, I wrote down these words as I started brainstorming a talk that I will be delivering in a few weeks. When I scribbled down these two words in a prayer journal, and remembered the term originally coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, I felt a stirring to explore further. When describing the growth mindset, it is often contrasted with a fixed mindset. To sum up the differences, individuals harnessing a growth mindset believe that talent and intelligence can grow with practice and experience. On the contrary, fixed mindset believers, believe that those same qualities are fixed and cannot be changed.

As I thought about that in the context of worldly living, it was as if God was providing me additional emphasis of the importance of possessing a growth mindset spiritually. I even thought about the differences between Apostle Paul and the Pharisees. Paul shifted dramatically and continued to grow in God for the sake of the kingdom. The Pharisees were stuck in religious traditions and missed the mark of transformation and salvation.

Growing in understanding, experiencing God daily, meditating on His Word continually and applying it to life consistently are avenues that not only provide access to spiritual development, but as we mature, we will constantly be developing more and more into the person that God sees, not what the world wants. We can try and live “holy” or be “righteous”, but without faith in God and belief that Jesus saved us, then those are just works that come from human effort instead of authentic commitment.

The Pharisees modeled dead works often and represented the fixed mindset category. Although Jesus was standing right in front of them, based on previous knowledge about carpenter Jesus, they could not see Christ Jesus. As we are all walking out our own salvation each day, ask God for the desire to grow in maturity and shift our mindset to living in liberty.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

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Consider the Lilies

And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Matthew 6:28-30 (ESV)

About one week ago, I went for a walk and decided to take pictures of the arrangement of flowers that were seen throughout my journey. One after one, I marveled at the colors and the uniqueness of each flower, petal and position. As I made my way to a stopping point, I flipped through my camera in awe of the beauty that God creates. I sat on a cut down tree watching the waves from a distance as the nearby seagulls dove head first into the tide to retrieve their breakfast.

I started to think about these verses and quickly found it on my Bible app and read the words as I revisited the pictures on my phone. I gazed up in the blue landscape with paint brush appearing clouds and took a deep breath. I thanked God and was immensely grateful and humbled in that moment realizing how small I was compared to His vastness, but that He is just so mindful of me. It was in that moment, when a charge of renewed faith stirred within me, crowding out any anxiousness and entering the warmth of the sun and His comfort.

In this season, as we are all undergoing many transitions, uncertainty, restlessness and immense shifting, let us remember who God is and think about why we succumb to worry. Our faith will be challenged today and moving forward but just look at the lilies, the birds and even the creepy crawling things around you. God takes care of them and so He most certainly will look after all of us too.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Stationed in the Kings Court

To these four young men God gave knowledge and skill in every aspect of literature and wisdom; Daniel also had insight into all visions and dreams. (Daniel 1:17)

and the king spoke with them. And among them all, no one was found to compare with Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah; therefore they were stationed in the kings court. (Daniel 1:19)

Yesterday afternoon, I was washing dishes and thought about the story of Daniel. Little did I know that this would be the story that would be part of my Bible reading in my devotional time this morning. It’s pretty amazing when the Holy Spirit gives you a download of what is coming before you even realize that that is what that is.

I was meditating on Daniel and his BFF’s because I am becoming more aware of the times we are in and what may be required of us sooner than later. It was like God was reminding me to stand firm and to not back down. I felt God reminding us all that who He calls qualified is so; not what “man” thinks.

If God can give these four men extended capacity wrapped in all the knowledge and wisdom that they would need to be given in their role to work directly at the kings station, imagine what He can do for you right now. We are in some pretty dynamic times; filled with intense darkness but also extreme light.

That light is in you and me. Do not be surprised if God places you in big rooms that you were not expecting to be standing in. Do not question whether you belong there or not? You do because He sent you there. Just allow Him to operate fully through you without the fleshy you discounting who you are in this season. As you begin to flow with what He has provided for you to withdraw from, you will become acutely aware, of the why and the reason.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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Many Dwelling Places

Your heart must not be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if not, I would have told you. I am going away to prepare a place for you. If I go away and prepare a place for you, I will come back and receive you to Myself so that where I am you may be also. John 14: 1-3 (HCSB)

I do not know about you, but if this message as many describe as the “Farewell Discourse” from Jesus is not needed today, right now, I do not know what is. Jesus knew precisely what His disciples needed to hear in that moment, knowing that His death was imminent and that His followers were deeply troubled. He gave them and (us) a clear directive, to ensure that our heart is not disturbed, even when so many disturbing events are occurring all around.

When reading these verses this morning, I imagined the dwelling places in our mind and how that impacts our heart. If our heart is troubled, then most likely our mind is as well. If we focus on all the things around us vying for our peace, we lose the peace that Jesus gives us freely, not the counterfeit version from this maladjusted world.

If we forget that this space that we walk in each day is temporal and fickle, we will not hold on to the promises of God. And God is not one to break a promise right? It may be hard for us to comprehend this because we are human and people break promises everyday, but God is outside of time and space and everything He is doing or what we are seeing, He foreknew .

Today, focus on the dwelling places that Jesus speaks of awaiting us all. We can either be caught up by world or caught into His presence. So you have a choice to make. Which one brings you more joy? Which one brings you more peace? Which one covers you with love? Which one honors the covenant between you and Him? And which one is more concrete?

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

Stay Encouraged.

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Keep Watch over Your Words

Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips. (Psalm 141:3) BSB

Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (Proverbs 18:21) BSB

Speaking rashly is like a piercing sword , but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (Proverbs 12:18) BSB

Our Words. This topic has been on my mind and within my spirit for weeks now and I have noticed how the Holy Spirit is beginning to reveal to me more and more the power that they carry. Over the last couple of weeks, I have found myself listening more intently to what others are saying (and “not saying”), what thoughts come to my own mind in discussion and my response in return. I have realized that in some of our frivolous conversations, that we can be negatively impacting our own environment by what we place in the atmosphere.

I am not sure if it’s just me, but I have noticed how much more derogatory others words are becoming and the impact that that may have in my own thoughts. If not careful, I can say something in a response that I wish I could take back immediately, which is why I believe that these verses and so many others pertaining to this topic (Isaiah 55:11) have been stirring within my spirit as a reminder and gentle rebuke, to keep watch over my words.

Our words have the power to build up or tear down, to plant or uproot, to encourage or destroy and to give life or death. The consequence of our action of speech depends on our free will and what we decide to do with those words. In a world built on sensationalism, immediate reactions, hate talk and constant opinions fueled in judgements and covered in ego and envy, I pray that we do not lose our way and get led astray by the deception in dialog occurring in these last days.

I encourage you as I am myself to watch over the words that occupy our space each day. Pray over the atmosphere that you are in. Remember who you are representing. We are to be a light in ever growing darkness. What we say to each other and to our selves about others and even about ourselves, will not return to us void. Consider the light that is within. Do not dim it based on conversation, but use your words inspired by the Good Word to intensify the needed positive illumination.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Power of Your Thorn

So to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it way from me. But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness”. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12: 7-9

Question for you today: Have you ever prayed to God to remove something from you that has not been answered yet or fulfilled? If you have and answered yes, then you are not the only one. I have been thinking about that recently after reading more about judgments and forgiveness. It was something that I have been musing on more deeply as we watch the world becoming more radically judgmental and less forgiving.

My mind went back to this verse and I heard someone talking about this verse last week, I think in part as a reminder for me, but maybe also for you. I remember a time in my life when I would ask God over and over to remove some behavior or thinking that I thought was blocking my ability to deepen my relationship with Him, but to be honest, it actually strengthened my dependence in Him, which ironically drew me closer to Him.

Why? How? You may be asking. Well, it made me even more reliant on His guidance and support to let what needed to be stamped out of my life to be done in His timing, not in my fleshly conquest. And as you can see, we are not alone in this journey. Even Paul ( formerly known as Saul) battled with something that led to his boasting in Christ. This same Paul who wrote 2/3rds of the New Testament, was weak in an area that only power of God could strengthen.

Although we do not know what Paul’s thorn was, we know what ours is right? We all have one. It makes us human. It makes us relatable to others. It makes us look at our plank more than the speck in someone else. It makes us more reliant on the power of the Holy Spirit and it shows us that when we are weak, then He is strong. Instead of feeling shame, regret, or perturbed by your thorn, thank God for being made in His image and for the opportunity to be revived in His presence and to receive His power and belief in Him to be reborn.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Cloud & The Light

In the daytime He led them with a cloud, and all night long with a fiery light. Psalm 78:14

I was thinking about God’s leading recently after having a conversation with a friend. She was questioning hearing or seeing God in this murky season that we are all encountering. I recounted a few times where I specifically sensed God steering me in a direction unbeknownst to others around me and gave her a list of ways that I began to become even more intentional about hearing and moving in the way that He advised; even when it meant a season of loneliness or wilderness.

This brought me back to this verse. God was leading the Israelites during their wilderness experience. They had a physical manifestation to cling to day and night and they were led accordingly. What I came to realize during this time of reflection is that to be led requires humility, not pride. Many times we miss what God is trying to convey because of our own inability to submit and obey.

In reading this verse and seeing how God led them all day and all night, it made me even more aware of the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit during this season. Just as the Israelites had the pillar of cloud and the fire of night to guide them, God has given us the power of the Holy Spirit to direct us, to speak to us, to show us what to do through His Word, to give us wisdom, provide discernment and insight along our very personal journey in life.

Let us all be led and fed by the Holy Spirit.

If God gave Him as a guide for us to use, then He knows what’s ahead and understands the critical importance of what path to correctly choose.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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The Speck vs The Plank

Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? Matthew 7:3-4 (NIV)

Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com

I took a bit of a pause in writing over the past couple of weeks, but yesterday as I wrote notes in my journal at church, I stumbled upon this title that I must have written about one month ago. I thought during my devotional time that I would be reading a book that I found on our bookshelf, but the Holy Spirit led me to sit down and write. So here we are- you reading this and me writing this.

I think over the past few months in listening to what others are saying whether between the lines or outright, passing judgements is becoming more and more overt. If not careful, one may find themselves either judging in secret or in public, but the question that I pose is, would Jesus approve? When I asked the questions to myself, I could feel the conviction in my own past diction and thought pattern leading me to repent for my own wrong doing.

In our daily experience, we will encounter those who we may not particularly care for and who we believe are wrong, but we must be careful to observe whether we are falling into the trap of judgements either in our mind or dialect and ask God to remove the bitter fruit of that entrapment.

If we honestly look at ourselves in our own mirror, we can see our own plank that needs correction. I know I require help from the Holy Spirit in this area as my flesh desires to react, but my spirit overrules to respond in love. When we posture ourselves in this manner and consider all that God has forgiven us for, how can we judge others? Makes you sit back and think right?

I pray that today and each day moving forward we can both remove our own plank with His help and guidance, see past the speck of others, lead with love and overdose with grace.

Stay Encouraged. Seek Him, Obey the Call, Complete Your Assignment.

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Tension in Transition

Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19 (NRSV)

Tension. A word that I am sure we can all relate to especially after reading the definition. According to dictionary.com, tension is defined as the “the state of being stretched tight”. If you have or are experiencing it, tension can be seen right before, during or after a major change or a major shift. Although we may not like the feeling, it is a necessary component for transition (the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another) to occur.

However you consider your time of tension in transition, know that God is still in midst. He is always here, but sometimes we become dull in Spirit and cannot effectively sense or see the infinite possibilities that can occur if we keep moving forward with Him as our guide. Other times we become nostalgic, not ready to give up what needs to be retired so that we can pick up what God wants to spring forth.

In your devotional time today, meditate on this verse. If you are experiencing tension in transition, perhaps that is exactly what you need to embrace and allow God to reveal to you in His time, what is next. Transition is a period of changing and that is exactly what we are doing every day; changing.

Our current condition does not dictate the final outcome, but our internal position and divine recognition plays a major role in our ability to ebb and flow with the tides of life. Give yourself to His internal workings. Allow yourself to be immersed in His presence. Believe on His promises and accept the tension in your life as fuel for transition and the springboard for future elevation.

Stay. Encouraged. Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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He Raises Deliverers

But when the Israelites cried out to the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer for the Israelites who delivered them, Othniel some of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother. The spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel; he went out to war, and the Lord gave King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram into his hand; and his hand prevailed over Cushan-rishathaim. So the land had rest forty years. Judges 3:9-10

When reading this yesterday during my devotional time, I sat in awe and marveled on the graciousness and faithfulness of our God as I read what was occurring in the lives of the Israelites and even reminiscing on events that have transpired in my own life, which provided me with a new fresh wind of peace that flooded within. I again began to just thank Him for His protection and provision. In times of uncertainty, in times of unrest, in times of feeling unsettled and even in times of doubt. But with just one reminder and one verse, it is amazing how God’s care for us creates a sense of hope and assurance of a future that if we were to see through the lens of the world is void of that word:hope.

I am even more aware in these times of great darkness that if we are not in this place of active discovery of how the Lord continues to look after His people, we are missing the very true nature of our loving Father. He hears us. He is listening to us. He is in every detail; even in the thick darkness. He is ever present and understands our prayers even when we do not. I am reminded of Paul and Silas (Acts 17) , being persecuted and landing up in prison but praying and praising God until they too were delivered from the very bondage that man placed in their path.

And just like those Israelites crying out to the Lord and the Lord hearing them and raising up someone who delivered them out of their circumstances, God can do the same thing in an instance. But we must seek Him and have faith in His ability. We have no idea what God may up to, but He is always doing something that we cannot even fathom. Our job is to trust and serve Him; to love others and to pray for everyone (even our enemies; yes even them) .

The body of Christ is in this earth for such a time as this so let us rise out of any feeling of defeat and despair and get off our feet and kneel in His presence in deep reflection, thankfulness and prayer.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

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According to His Pattern

The Lord spoke to Moses saying: “Speak to Aaron and say to him: When you set up the lamps, the seven lamps shall give you light in front of the lampstand”. Aaron did so; he set up its lamps to give light in front of the lampstand, as the Lord commanded Moses. Now this was how the lampstand was made, out of hammered work of gold. From its base to its flowers, it was hammered work; according to the pattern that the Lord had shown Moses, so he made the lampstand. Numbers 8: 1-4 (NRSV)

Then I turned to see whose voice it was that spoke to me, and on turning, I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands I saw one like the Son of Man, clothed with a long robe with a golden sash across His chest. Revelation 1: 12-13 (NRSV)

I cannot begin to tell you how amazed I am after reading the Word of God, when He just reveals something to you that at one time you would have glossed over. I know this is not just happening to me as I have had many conversations with others who have been experiencing this exact same process in their personal devotional time. This was how I felt when re-reading these verses over and over again, which if I had not journeyed through the book of Revelation in detail months before, I would not have recognized the relationship between these two books. But who am I kidding, the entire Word of God is connected to each other. It is His inspired Word so why would it not be?

In studying the book of Revelation recently where the messages to the seven churches, representing the entire Body of Christ were given, I have been examining my ways more and more and have been asking God to sift through my heart and hammer out anything that is not pure in His sight; not in the sight of man. And I recognize that this year is a year of deep purging and purifying as God takes us all through the process of sanctification- to be set apart for His purpose, which requires a certain process; according to His pattern. Just like God gave Moses instructions to give to Aaron regarding the way that these lampstands should be made- hammered out of pure gold; every single piece of it, so is God hammering things out of us, in order to purify us, according to His” modus operandi”- a distinct pattern- a method of procedure.

And everything that is occurring in and around us right now is according to His pattern. We may not understand it, and maybe we are not meant to? Maybe we are to trust Him in everything and have faith that He will bring us through. What we may be walking through is a distinct opportunity for us to be refined, to become purified, to remove the vestiges that do not suit us any longer so that we can represent His true nature on the earth, but sometimes it requires a hammering, a forceful repeated molding that might not “feel” good at the time, but is necessary for our growth and for our true selves to be revealed. Let us all embrace what God is doing in our lives and accept the pattern according to the Lord. The more we submit to the change, the better off we will be and the more light buried deep will become more and more exposed for others to gravitate towards and see.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

Stay Encouraged

March in Prayer

Dear Dad,

The world is shifting, we are transitioning, life is unstable, and the earth is groaning. I sometimes wonder, “How did we get here?” Then I remember that chaos entered the world with sin at the doorstep. We are entering an opportune time. We have stepped into a moment to repent and return to our first love – You.

Lord God, I pray we do. I pray that our hearts match our words and that our words match our deeds. I pray that we acknowledge you in our daily activity and make You the priority. I pray that we consider You in our decisions. I pray for the surrounding communities and their safety. I pray for our leaders- that they seek You first. That they have wise counsel and that they do not take for granted the weight of the responsibility.

I pray for our infrastructures, our resources, and our neighborhoods. I pray for the protection. I pray for our families, friends and adversaries. I pray for unbelievers that you reveal Yourself to them and that they follow You.

In all our ways, may we acknowledge You

In Jesus Name

Amen

Reflect and Pray

Dear Dad,

As another year approaches the end of its cycle, I thank you. This year has been an interesting one full of many transitions, trials, and triumphs. You continue to clothe us with your mercy, provide us with your peace, and strengthen us with your faith. We could not have made it through this year without you.

You have quieted the storms, settled anxieties, ordered my steps. You taught me what love truly is and how the love of a father, You, conquers all. I pray that next year will be an even more profitable year in Your presence. I hope I never forget that You are here. You are always present and always available.

Thank you for taking such great care of me.

Amen

I will Remember

But I will remember the LORD’s deeds; yes, I will remember your wondrous acts from times long past. I will meditate on all your works; I will ponder your deeds. (Psalm 77:11-12)

The days can be busy and life can be challenging, but I will remember.

What you have brought me through and continue to do, and I will remember

The tap in my spirit. The warning in my thoughts. The peace that surfaces. The love that I feel in my heart.

The hope for the future. The faith for now. The fact that You are the Divine Creator. All I can think is “Wow”.

You knew what we would all be doing in this current season. You placed purpose in us for a reason.

You ensured that eternity remains in our hearts so that we will yearn for your fellowship from the start.

I will remember how many times you saved me from myself. You encouraged my spirit and continue to provide help.

You have walked with me through very dark times. Valleys of lows and mountains of highs. You calm the raging seas and paint the infinite sky.

I will remember that this life is just an appetizer to the main event.

That we are just tent dwellers chosen for such a time and sent.

Lord, we will remember you always in our thoughts.

Let us meditate on your wonders and keep your will in our hearts.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

When Leaders Stray

It happened at the time of Solomon’s old age that his wives guided his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully with Yahweh his God as the heart of David his father had been (1 Kings 11: 4)

And He had commanded him concerning this matter not to go after other gods, but he did not keep that which Yahweh commanded ( 1 King 11:10) LEB

From reading 1 Kings 8 to the start of 1 Kings 11, I have to say I felt very…sad. King Solomon’s rise and fall is very sobering. I started wondering when reading 1 Kings 11 this week, how many years transpired between the tragic turn of events. Of course, in true fashion, I went and asked ChatGPT. It provided a timeline of approximately 28 years. This is based on the period from the temple dedication in chapter 8 to chapter 11. 1 Kings 11 covers the end of Solomon’s reign, around year 40.

This sad reality opened my eyes. It showed how quickly one can go from praying to Yahweh to being led astray. How easy it can become to allow outside influences to impact our relationship with God. How subtle deception can creep in and take root in our hearts-if we let it. As Solomon added wives, he diluted in character. As he clung to their ways, he forgot Yah’s way.

He became so devoted to the world through his wives. He built altars to the gods they served instead of the God he heard. It troubled me to read this. I can’t imagine the sadness God must have felt. He was abandoned by a man who originally asked Him for wisdom.

And at the end of his life, apostasy had overtaken him. I searched and searched, although I read this over and over before. I wondered if Solomon repented when he was rebuked about what he had done. He received the fate of his kingdom from God through Jeroboam (1 Kings 11:26-40). There is no mention of him asking God for forgiveness.

In fact, he tried to kill Jeroboam for confirming his judgment. But what if in that moment, he repented? What if he asked God to have mercy on him? What would have been the outcome? I know we will never know. But when I read the Word, I remind myself that these are real people with both testimonies and tragedies.

This was a very strong warning for me and I think for us in this time. We have to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil 2:12). We must cling to the Living word of the Lord. We must yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit. We must cloth ourselves in His armor. We must pray that we are not deceived or that the enemy wins and leads us astray.

Stay Encouraged and In Prayer

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

When Leaders Pray

Then Solomon stood before the altar of Yahweh in the presence of all of the assembly of Israel, and he spread out his hands to the heavens, and he said, “O Yahweh, God of Israel, there is no god like you in the heavens above or on the earth beneath, keeping the covenant and the loyal love for your servants who are walking before you with all their heart. 1 King 8:22-24 (LEB)

My heart is a little heavy for the Body of Christ right now. I imagine those reading this feel the same. Early this week during my devotional time with the Lord, I read this powerful and rich prayer by king Solomon. I was prompted to read it out loud. This helped my mind connect to the emotion of this prayer to God on behalf of His people.

Solomon had just finished building the temple to the Lord. He dedicated it to Yahweh. He addressed the people of Israel and prayed to the Lord. As I read the tapestry of richness of his rhetoric, I imagined being in the assembly. I pictured participating in this fellowship. I thought about how encouraging and utterly repentant they must have felt.

This king was known for his wisdom. He revered the Lord. He interceded for the people. He plead to the Lord to listen to His people’s prayers. He encouraged the people to walk in His ways. My mind flashed to the meaning behind James 5:16 ” The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective”. We have so much to offer others and God in our prayer time. And it is often the most neglected part of our day.

I pray you have time to read this in its entirety out loud . It will change the way you think about prayer. It humbled me, left me encouraged, and led me to become more fervent in my intercession. I pray we all take prayer more seriously, starting today.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.

Who Are You Pleasing?

Am I trying to win over human beings or God? Or am I trying to please people? Galatians 1:10a

Last week I was talking to my BFF. I mentioned that I have to be mindful of not “people pleasing”. It is funny that after all these years, I can struggle with this. I also think by no coincidence that God places me in situations where I would be challenged by this. And as God does, He uses opportunities to bring this to my awareness.

While reading Galatians, I was reminded again. It highlighted what I need to commit myself to do daily for the “Audience of One”. And I know this will become even more harder to do. The world lives for instant gratification which is externally driven. We can be motivated by the acceptance of others before searching to see what God wants.

We were created to worship- God; not man. He reminded me this morning to not mistake people pleasing from honoring others. He reminded to lean into the Holy Spirit when I sense the tug to create a boundary. I see the importance of this in leadership each day. So many are vying for attention without intention. I believe God showed me this to correct me, to protect me, and to redirect me. He can do the same for you too-just lean in and follow through.

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment

Comfort in Chaos

You calm the roaring seas, calm the roaring waves, calm the noise of the nations. (Psalm 65: 7)

Dear Lord,

Thank you for being such a comfort in chaos. Thank you for calming the seas, the waves, and the noise pounding on the earth. Resting in You is the highest form of peace that I have. I know that you are Abba Father, Gracious Papa, and Merciful Adonai. You are the embodiment of love. This gives me such hope even if the world around us is in utter chaos.

You gave us Your most holy Word for instruction, direction, and confirmation. You told us these things would take place and to endure. You stated repeated messages such as “do not fear”, knowing that we would. You invite us into divine intimacy and fellowship to comfort and prepare us.

You forgive our sins and love us deeply. How honored we are to call you Father. How thankful I am that Your mercies are new every morning. How humbled I am that You speak and meet me just where I am.

I pray that we can see how you love us so. That we will not take it for granted and that we stay planted in You.

Amen.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.