March Cover Photo (2014)*

Photo courtesy of Rachel J Newman

God Strengthens the Weak, Refreshes the Weary, Encourages and Restores Us (3.31.14)

My Child,
We both know there will be times when you may fall short and make a few mistakes. Don't be afraid to come to Me in those times.  For My desire is to restore you and to raise you back up into the fullness of your destiny.

When you stay away from Me during times of weariness, the enemy will cause you to believe that I am punishing you. You know I am not like that and that is not My way. I am the GOD who restores and refreshes you when you become weary. I am the GOD of encouragement and My desire is to build you up for excellence.

Do not be afraid to come into My presence; to bring Me your problems and shortcomings; and then watch how I will help you with them. I won't push you away when you fall short; I will receive you, restore you, heal you, and transform you for My glory. So come to Me and draw close to Me. Come expecting My mercy and grace to remind you of how good I am. I know that I have shown you Who I am, but there are times when you might need to be reminded.

Now, come into My presence. 

Trust Me and trust in My very nature.  

For I AM LOVE and I AM GOOD. 

So do not draw back from Me, for I want to breathe new life back into you. I want to strengthen that which is weak.  I want to refresh that which is weary. I want to encourage you and restore your sense of destiny and calling. I want to pour a fresh anointing upon you, show you My goodness and saturate you in My love.

So run to Me and experience My goodness in your life.

For I am good and I love you greatly.
___

Romans 3:23 - For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;

Isaiah 57:18 - I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners.

1 John 4:16 - And we have known and believed the love that GOD hath to us. GOD is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in GOD, and GOD in him.

A New Start to Those Tasks & Things of Old (3.29.14)

Beloved,

Yes, I know My mercies are fresh every morning and you can partake of them freely, however this is different.  

You have a new start to something which is old, something you did a long time ago. Something that, when it began feeling mundane, you lost interest and drifted away. 

This was not altogether bad, because you did something else I was leading you to do.  
Therefore, we must finish what we started.

But, now it is time to begin that project again.  

It still needs to be done, and I want you to complete it.  

The project hasn’t gone anywhere, it’s been there all along, waiting for you.  

However, this time, I want you to see it through My eyes.  

I want you to see it a new way; therefore you will be able to complete this task.  

My Word never changes and it never return to me void.

_______

Numbers 23:19 - GOD is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

Isaiah 55:11 - So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

Philippians 1:6 - Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ

Stand Firm and Raise Your Shield of Faith in God's Name (3.28.14)

My Beloved,

No matter what you feel today
about the things happening in the world around you, 

know that I am at work to bless, increase and multiply you.  

You are at a time in your life when things have not measured up
to what you hoped, 

and others haven’t kept their word.  

The enemy of your soul is taunting you with these disappointments.  

Now, thoughts of running away and hiding until the storm is over continues to flood your mind.  However, I say to you, do not run from your enemy.  Face him square on and rebuke him in the name of Jesus.  Command him to leave you, your family, your finances and your marriage alone.  Stand firm in My name; raise your shield of faith and use My Word to run the enemy off.

We will win this battle together because I am with you. 

The battle is not yours but mine, says the Lord.

For I have kept the ways of the LORD; I have not turned from my GOD to follow evil. - Psalms 18:21

Trust in God, for He will Give You the Strength to Make it Through (3.27.14)

Oh, how great are GOD’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! - Romans 11:33

Thousands of people throughout history have asked this question. It is hard to understand how a good and loving GOD can allow bad things to happen to his children. As finite creatures living within the bounds of space and time, we have a limited view of our circumstances. On the other hand, GOD is infinite and all-knowing, and can see things that we cannot. He can see into the future and know all things even before they happen.  My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts, says the Lord. And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. - Isaiah 55:8-9

GOD’s priorities are eternal, not temporary like the things of this world. What is “bad” and who is “good”? The “bad” thing you experience may be the one thing that brings you or someone else to eternal salvation through Christ. In GOD’s view, that is the ultimate “good.”

Often we are like a small child getting a vaccination. All the child knows is that his parents are allowing someone to inflict pain on him. He doesn’t understand that this painful event is preventing him from developing a horrible disease that may cause his death. What seems bad can actually be good. “GOD is good and His faithful love endures forever,” - Psalm 106:1.  The Bible tells us that GOD is good, righteous, holy, loving and completely in control. Will you believe this to be true no matter what happens?

Joseph suffered for years as a result of being betrayed and sold into slavery by his own brothers. But in the end he said, “You intended to harm me, but GOD intended it all for good...so I could save the lives of many people,” - Genesis 50:20.  In the same way, GOD knows your name and your troubles. He has not fallen asleep or grown weary. When you trust in Him, He will give you the strength to make it through.  

Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these?  He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name.  Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. Why do you complain, Jacob?    Why do you say, Israel,“My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God”?  Do you not know? Have you not heard?  The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.  He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.  He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 

 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint - Isaiah 40:26-31

We know that GOD causes everything to work together for the good of those who love GOD and are called according to his purpose for them - Romans 8:28.  When your life seems to be falling apart, you need to hang on to the unshakable truth of who GOD is. Trusting and resting in his perfect love will help you to overcome your fear with faith. Know that GOD love you and He will never leave you nor forsake you. He will not leave you comfortless when you trust in Him.

Refuse to be Moved By What You See & Stand on God's Word (3.26.14)

Children,

Do not look around at what others are doing or saying.  

Do not let naysayers influence you with their negative thoughts.  

There will always be negative people among you. You must remember My Words, and only follow them.  Stop allowing the voices of the world to draw you away from Me, and rob you of your peace.  If you stand on My Word, and refuse to be moved by what you see, you will prove to others that the power of My Word is real. 

Beloveds, you have many things going on in your life, which are occupying your mind.  Causing you to become frustrated and confused at times.  Do not allow anything, nor anyone, pull you away from your prayer time with Me. You need this time with Me, because during this time I will give you your Daily Bread. This Bread will show you how to stand against the enemy, his craftiness and his schemes; for he will try to come against you on almost on a daily basis.

Continue to walk forward, knowing that I Am with you, and in you.  

There is nothing that will happen in your life that I am not aware of, 

or haven't previously worked out for you.  

I know what is in your future, 

and I have already worked it out for your good.  

I just want you to stay focused on Me, 

looking expectantly to Me, in faith, for your miracle and your deliverance.
_________

Psalms 37:1-5 - Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

1 Corinthians 1:9 - God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

Philippians 3:14 - I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

** Today's Ten Most Popular Messages (3.25.14) **

1. Today is A New Day, The Time is Now - Prepare Yourself, Rejoice and Do Not Delay (1.4.14)
2. Take the Victory through the Words You Speak (6.24.13)
3. Perfect Timing: Excerpts from "Timely Gifts" by Lynn Cowell (2.18.14)
4. There is Strength in Focusing on Things of Spiritual Substance (7.10.13)
5. Delays are Tools to Perfect our Faith (7.4.13)
6. No Matter Where the Road Leads, God is Always With Us (3.5.14)
7. Learning to Wait on God (2.14.14)
8. Lay Down the Burdens of Your Heart & the Brokenness of Yesterday (2.1.14)
9. When God Opens Doors for You, Walk Boldly Through (3.20.14)
10. Look not to Your Circumstances, Look to the Lord (10.30.13)

The top ten most popular messages are always on the right hand side.
Feel free to comment & let us know your favorite message.

#Enjoy     #BlessAndBeBlessed

God is Leading You Out of the Ordinary, To Be Involved in the Extraordinary (3.24.14)

My Child,

Be strong and courageous and you will be able to take the land set before you.  Fret not, I will give you the details of what I am doing. Therefore, move in obedience to My prompts.  You will not be overcome by those who would try to hinder you.  Stand with Me against the enemy and be firm in your commitment to follow Me, no matter what the cost.

No eye has seen, and no ear has heard, of the wonderful things I am doing for those who are called.  Those who have their hearts filled with love for Me.  I will move you into that place where you can be most effective for My kingdom.  I will plant you in the place of My choosing.

Are you ready for change?  

Are you willing to give up all to follow Me?  

If so, pack your bags and get ready for what I am about to do in your life.  I am about to put in place those things that have been withheld from you.  Trust Me and Trust My lead, for I am leading you out of the ordinary, to be involved in the extraordinary.  

Now be strong, courageous and ready to take the path that I've put before you.
_______

Joshua 1:7  - Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.

1 Corinthians 2:9  - But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which GOD hath prepared for them that love him.

Rest in the Lord, Rest So that You Can Hear Him More Clearly (3.23.14)

My Child,

It says in My Word to "Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him."  

However, so many of my children have been busy

running to and fro that they haven’t had much time to rest.  

Don't you know you must rest in order to hear Me more clearly?  

When you’re worn out and tired, 

it becomes very difficult for you to hear Me when I speak to you. 

Even my Son, Jesus, when He walked on this earth 

took time to break away from the crowd and away from the ministry, 

to rest, pray and to seek My face.  

If my Son had to do this, 

then don't you think I would expect you to do this as well?

The enemy is trying hard to overwhelm you with work 

so that you have no time for rest.  

He will try to convince you that you must constantly be working. 

However, I am calling you to set apart time to rest, 

time to refresh your body, 

so that your ears will be clear to hear what I am saying to you. 

I am calling you to make time for Me each day, 

because I am the one who allow you to arise each day. 

I am the One who has blessed you with all that you have.

Your health, home, car, job, children and spouse; 

so why have you not set time aside for Me? 

Finally, I want you to be refreshed and ready,
so when I send you into the world each day,
you are prepared for the tasks I have assigned you to. 

There is much I have chosen for you to do, but resting in Me is a part of that ministry as well.  Therefore, do not neglect this very important part of the ministry.  Rest and wait patiently for Me.  Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing, but rest and I will clearly guide you.
Then I will send you out as My vessel. 

I will cause My Spirit and anointing to rest strongly on you
and fully equip you for the work I’ve called you to do.

So, do not be afraid to rest in Me,
nor to set yourself apart for a time of respite.

Rest in Me and wait patiently for My timing. 

Draw into that place of intimacy with me, for I have good things planned for you.
________
Psalm 37:7 - Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.

Put on God's Garments of Praise (3.22.14)

My Child,

Do not think that I don't know about your situation,

for I am the all knowing and all seeing GOD. 

I see what is going on in your life at all times, 

because I never slumber or sleep and My hand is on you at all times. 

When difficult things happen, 

know that I am there with you holding you tightly. 

Not a single tear from your eye will escape me, because I love you.

Therefore I say to you, stop crying, wash your face 

and put on My garments of praise. 

These garments are meant to be worn at all times
and not just when things are going good. 

If you are a person of worship and continuous praise, 

you will see My glory come forth in the midst of every difficult situation. 

Just as I caused the sun to stand still for Joshua, 

I will bring stillness to the storm raging around you 

and give you victory over the works of the enemy. 

Remain focused on Me.

Keep your eyes on Me, so that you will know when I am moving, 

then go forth with Me in My power and glory. 

In this world you will encounter a season of tribulations, 

but the word tribulation does not equate to defeat, 

because I shall lead and guide you through each challenge. 

Nothing and nobody will ever defeat the things I have blessed. 

I am GOD all by myself and I hold all power in my hands.

Look to Me in the midst of this difficult situation

and don’t expect the worse. 

Instead, be prepared for victory 

because this is what I have promised you. 

Rise up in My name and you will see your enemies fall before you. 

Know this, I am going to move in a mighty way on your behalf. 

My victory will surround you, 

for this day I have decreed victory over your life. 

Now, look to Me and rejoice, 

for your day of victory is at hand.

______

Psalm 56:8 - Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?

Isaiah 61:3 - To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

Seek, Honor & Fear God with All Your Being (3.21.14)

Then Asa called to the Lord his GOD and said, “Lord, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, Lord our GOD, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. Lord, you are our GOD; do not let mere mortals prevail against you
 - 2 Chronicles 14:11

The one fear that delivers humans from all other fears is the fear of GOD. 

When this fear is rightly understood and lived by, we need not fear anything else. 

Everyday we must choose between fearing humans or the fear of GOD. 

When we receive the Holy Spirit, GOD places in us,
the fear of Him (Jeremiah 32:39). 

When we fear GOD, it shows in how we live. 

To fear GOD means to rejoice at just the mentioning of His great name. 

When we truly fear the Lord, it shows in how we relate to others. 

The things you feel in your heart, start to show in your actions. 

One of the greatest gifts you can leave your children, the next generation, 

is a Godly testimony of having faith in God and Christ. 

GOD wants His people to seek Him, and honor Him, with all our being. 

Many of us serve GOD with our mouths, but our hearts are far from Him. 

Actions and words will prove one's faith, or faithlessness, 

and whether we truly feared the Lord. 

The Bible tell us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. 

When we have the fear of GOD in our lives, 

it means that we have reverence, respect, and honor for GOD at all times. 

We will seek GOD always no matter what, 

knowing that He is GOD all by Himself 

and that there is no other GOD.

When God Opens Doors for You, Walk Boldly Through (3.20.14)

Beloved,
You've prayed for open doors. 

You've asked Me to make a way out of no way. 

I made a way out of no way, and I showed you the open door, 

but you won’t walk through it.

There is a door waiting for you to walk through. It’s waiting for you to unlock it with the keys that I provided to you, earlier in your journey. 

This is the door that you've been praying for. 

I’ve prepared you and I have led you to this door. 

However, it’s up to you to walk through it. 

Walk through this door without hesitation, 

for beyond this door lies your destiny with Me.

You think to yourself, “Jesus wouldn't do it that way” or “This can’t be GOD." Children, always remember that I open doors My way. I open doors for your good, and to bring Me the greatest glory. Look back over scripture, and you will see. The door I opened for Joseph was costly, he didn't recognize it at first because it led to slavery and prison, but when the door swung wide open, it led him directly to the throne room.

Don't allow your reasoning to talk you out of what I am doing. Don’t assume to know the mind of the Lord your God, and don’t limit Me to doing things a certain way. My Word says that I move mightily, and it’s not unusual for Me to do a new thing. Like making rivers in the desert or parting the Red Sea. There’s nothing I wouldn't do for those who put their trust in Me.

I will show Myself mighty on behalf of My people, so don’t be afraid to move forward with Me. When I open the door for you, walk boldly through. Trust in Me, for I am with you. I will empower you. I will do mighty works through you, if you will just lay it all before Me; commit your ways unto Me, and then walk through the doors that I open for you.

Beyond this door, I will show you the marvelous things I’ve prepared for you, things you cannot begin to imagine. Use the keys given to you, walk through the door and things will begin to unfold. I will give you revelations about your journey and the reason you had to endure so much will become apparent to you. 

I will move you forward to complete the work I started in you.

You will be amazed and others will marvel at the work I’ve done in you. 

However, in order for this to happen, you must be a doer of My Word. 

If you do not see this open door then pray to me asking for wisdom and direction.

Meditate on God's Word: 

Isaiah 43:19 ;  Philippians 1:6 ;  James 1:23 ; Revelations 3:8 ; Revelations 3:20

God Has a Plan for Your Life (3.18.14)

Beloved,

I have a plan for your life. 

I brought you into this world to fulfill that plan. It is the best plan that anyone could ever make for you. It is a plan that will bring Me the greatest glory and you the greatest good. From the beginning of your life, until the end, I am working out My plan.

As you follow My plan for your life, do so by faith. 

It’s important to remember that I am the Guide, and you are the follower. And I don’t have to bring My plan into a planning room with a consultant to help Me decide what is best for your life, for I am life.

Therefore, I want you to trust Me.  I want you to take the next step of obedience according to My will. After all, haven’t I said, "I will bring the blind by a way they did not know; I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, and crooked places straight. These things I will do for them, and not forsake them."

Now remember, I am your Shepherd, your Provider, your Strength, your Counselor, your Shield, your Comfort, and your Father. 

So, follow My plan for your life, and you will not fail.
____________

Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Isaiah 42:16 - And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them

The Will of God Will Never Take You..... (3.17.14)

The will of GOD will never take you,
Where the grace of GOD cannot keep you,
Where the arms of GOD cannot support you,
Where the riches of GOD cannot supply your needs,
Where the power of GOD cannot endow you.

The will of GOD will never take you,
Where the Spirit of GOD cannot work through you,
Where the wisdom of GOD cannot teach you,
Where the army of GOD cannot protect you,
Where the hands of GOD cannot mold you.


The will of GOD will never take you,
Where the love of GOD cannot enfold you,
Where the mercies of GOD cannot sustain you,
Where the peace of GOD cannot calm your fears,
Where the authority of GOD cannot overrule for you.


The will of GOD will never take you,
Where the comfort of GOD cannot dry your tears,
Where the Word of GOD cannot feed you,
Where the miracles of God cannot be done for you,
Where the omnipresence of GOD cannot find you.


Everything happens for a purpose. We may not
see the wisdom of it all now, but trust and believe
in the Lord that everything is for the best.

No matter what problem there is in your life,

keep your eyes on the Lord

and not your present circumstances.

I heard a quote once that said

"Stop telling GOD how big your problem is,

and start telling your problem how big your GOD is."

God Designed Us to be Amazing - Strong, Bold, Faithful and Able to do All Things (3.16.14)

My Child,

I know that you have faith in Me, 

but did you know that I have faith in you also? 

I have confidence, knowing that you can stand firm in the face of 

the temptations that used to take over you. 

I have faith in you, because My Holy Spirit is at work in you 

changing and transforming you into My image. 

And I know that you can accomplish all that I’ve asked you to do, 

even if you don’t have faith in yourself.

I know this because I have spoken My Word into your spirit; 

and My spirit is at work, reminding you that you can do all things 

through my son, Christ Jesus, who strengthens you. 

Therefore, it doesn’t matter if the task at hand seems overwhelming to you, 

I have faith in you that it will be done.
 

For you are not an accident; 

you were carefully planned and chosen. 

You are an amazing person, because I made you that way. 

The Holy Spirit has been at work in you to refine and transform you. 

My Spirit has destroyed all the strongholds of the enemy that once held you back; 

and is now releasing you to be precisely the person I designed you to be: 

strong, bold, faithful, and able to do all things in My strength and in My anointing.

So do not allow yourself to be held back by the lies of the enemy any longer. 

Instead, embrace who I created you to be. 

Embrace the calling and destiny that I have placed on your life; 

then rise up in My power, and go accomplish all that I have given you to do. 

And as you go, remember this; you are My Child, 

and you are not operating alone or in your own strength. 

I will be with you every step of the way to empower you.
You will succeed, because I have faith in you.
_______
Psalm 1:3 - And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Ezekiel 37:14 - I will place my spirit within you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the LORD have spoken it, and performed it, saith the LORD.

Romans 8:37 - Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me

When to be Silent (3.14.14)

be silent 
1. In the heat of anger
- Proverbs 14:17

be silent
2. When you don't have all the facts
- Proverbs 18:13

be silent
3. When you haven't verified the story
- Deuteronomy 17:6

be silent
4. If your words will offend a another person
- 1 Corinthians 8:11

be silent
5. When it is time to listen
- Proverbs 13:1

be silent
6. When you are tempted to make light of holy things
- Ecclesiastes 5:2

be silent
7. When you are tempted to joke about sin
- Proverbs 14:9

be silent
8. If you will be ashamed of your words later
- Proverbs 8:8

be silent
9. If your words give the wrong impression
- Proverbs 17:27

be silent
10. If the issue is none of your business
- Proverbs 14:10

be silent
11. When you are tempted to tell an outright lie
- Proverbs 4:24

be silent
12. If your words will damage someone else's reputation
- Proverbs 16:27

be silent
13. If your words will damage a friendship
- Proverbs 16:28

be silent 
14. When you are feeling critical
- James 3:9

be silent
15. If you can't say it without screaming it
- Proverbs 25:28

be silent
16. If your words will be a poor reflection of
the Lord or your friends and family
 - Peter 2:21-23

be silent
17. If you may have to eat your words later
- Proverbs 18:21

be silent
18. If you have already said it more than one time
- Proverbs 19:13

be silent
19. When you are tempted to flatter a wicked person
 - Proverbs 24:24

be silent
20. When you are supposed to be working instead
 - Proverbs 14:23

Whoever guards his mouth & tongue keeps his soul from troubles- Proverbs 21:23

Believe, Obey & Choose to Live in Faith & Victory (3.13.14)

Are you in a place in your life where you are constantly being bombarded with negativity? 

Are you saying to yourself, “I will never get out of this situation!” 

Then you probably won’t. 

The Bible tells us, “For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” [Proverbs 23:7] 

Let's rephrase this statement and make it personal: “For as you think in your heart, so are you.”

If you dwell on negative, fearful thoughts; these things will come to pass in your life. 

Your mind will cause you to experience those same negative thoughts, 

when in fact, the battleground is in your mind. 

You have to control your thoughts to ensure they line up with the Father’s promises.

Your thoughts, just like dreams, come from one of three sources: GOD, yourself, or the enemy. 

Don’t let satan lie to you and tell you, "you will never get out of your situation", 

or "you will never have victory in this matter", or "you will never pay off all those bills." 

The enemy will tell you, you’re too young, you’re too old, you’re not smart enough, you have too much education and it has hurt you. But GOD can give you favor in whatever situation you find yourself in. You simply have to BELIEVE, OBEY, and CHOOSE to live in FAITH and VICTORY.

You must control your thoughts! 

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of GOD and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. [2 Corinthians 10:5]

If you do not cast out the enemy's lies, but rather choose to listen to them, you will place limits on what GOD can do in your life.

GOD is only limited by your lack of FAITH.

Seasons of Difficult Growth, Discomfort & Dark Valleys (3.12.14)

My Child,

There are times I will take you through a short season of difficult growth. 

I will open your eyes for you to see things that are within you, 

but that are not of me or of the character that you’ve been ignoring.

Character that you don’t want to acknowledge. 

Then, I will also cause you to face the hurt or pain from your past, 

so that I can break the power it has over your life. 

I must allow these things to happen 

to set you free from the things that are holding you back, 

so that you can enjoy all the blessings I have in store for you.

Yes, I allow seasons of discomfort and dark valley experiences. 

However, I do not leave you while you are going through them, 

nor do I leave you to try and figure things out on your own. 

I am always with you, guiding you away from dangers seen and unseen. 

For it is not My will that you should live the rest of your life in dark valleys. 

I want to bring you to the mountain top, so that you can be in my presence; 

that is where I want you to be. 

My will for you is to bless you with abundant life. 

I want you to expect Me to really bless you in the coming weeks. 

You have been believing Me to answer a certain thing 

you have been praying for and I am going to do just that, real soon. 

This year is your year of abundance!!
_______________

Lamentations 3:31-33 - For no one is abandoned by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion because of the greatness of his unfailing love. For he does not enjoy hurting people or causing them sorrow.

Watering Seeds of Faith (3.11.14)

Beloved, 

I have planted seeds of faith in your heart. 

Do not be discouraged if you do not see it's fruit instantly. 

Seeds start small.  The initial growth is underground.  

And for a while you can’t see any apparent signs of life, 

but that does not mean the seed has died. 

It means that the roots are growing downward, 

the seed is being established so that it's stem may sprout. 

This is what’s happening in your life right now, so do not lose hope.

Child of Mine, I have seen your discouragement and I am with you. 

I know it has been hard for you, but do not lose hope. 

Just like with the seed; I am with you and I am working behind the scenes on your behalf. 

And in time you will see My glory manifest in your situation. 

Do not lose hope when it seems as though I am not quick to respond to your prayers, 

just keep your faith in Me and soon My work will become apparent to you.

And if things do not turn out the way you think they should, 

this is where you must trust Me.  

Beloved, I see everything from the beginning to the end. 

I understand the big picture. I know all the factors in your situation. 

I see the hidden dangers that you are unaware of, 

and I am actively working on your behalf by setting up roadblocks 

so that nothing by any means will hurt you.

So, have hope and faith in Me and you will not be disappointed. 

Be patient and hang on a little longer and by doing this you will see 

that I am faithful to you.

You will receive the victory in everything the enemy meant for your harm.

Now, water your seeds of faith and allow them to grow. 

Remember, My plans for you are good. 

Trust in Me always and you will not be disappointed.
______
Psalm 71:14 - But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more.

Psalm 31:24 - Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.

Psalm 39:7 - And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.

Lamentations 3:24 - The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.

Romans 8:25 - But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.

With Your Mind Set on God, You Will Break the Mold (3.10.14)

My Child,

Watch out for distractions that will divert your attention from what I have called you to do. 

Do not assume that your current trial is beyond My ability to bring you through to victory. The tests that you are now facing can either become a stepping stone or a tombstone.

Now is not the time to give up! 

Now is the time to establish yourself in faith and obedience to My leading. These trials will bring great insight and discernment to know the difference between spiritual reality and soulful fantasy. 

The lessons of that you are facing are of great value and will produce eternal fruit; but you must rise above the point of your own victimization and yield to My work in you.

I shall call upon you to do what you believe you cannot do.

So that I can demonstrate to you that without Me you can do nothing; but with Me and through Me all things are possible. So do not be limited by what your eyes see, what your ears hear or what your mind perceives or knows. 

With your mind set on Me, you will break the mold. 

And the destiny I have planned for you will draw you into uncharted waters. 

Now, I say unto you; arise and don’t be distracted by the enemy. 

Go forth in blind faith, but with a heart determined to obey every word I have spoken to you.

______

Isaiah 26:3 - Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee

Matthew 19:26 - But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with GOD all things are possible

Ephesians 4:23 - And be renewed in the spirit of your mind

Romans 12:2 - And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of GOD 

Place Your Situations & Concerns in God's Hands (3.9.14)

My Child, 

Some of My own do not trust Me nearly as much as they say they do. 

They receive salvation and then they put some measure of their trust in Me. 

They say with their lips that they trust me with all of their heart.
Until a problem arises. 

When the problem comes, I am seldom the first person they run to for help. 

They seek Me after all their attempts to solve the problem have failed.

My child, please don’t be like them. 

Train yourself to seek Me first in all things, no matter how big or how small it is. 

Begin right now to turn to Me for help, 

for that is the only way you will really learn just how faithful and trustworthy I am.

Trust Me now. 

Place your current situations and concerns in My hands; 

and trust that I am more than able to help you. 

Look to Me, listen to Me and have faith in Me.

Then watch and see how I will come through for you. 

I want you to experience My faithfulness first hand.

Remember this the next time there is a problem in your life 

and you need to turn to someone for help.

Let Me be the first One you run to. 

Let My name be the first name you call to supply your needs. 

Yes, turn to Me, put your trust in Me and you will not be disappointed.
________

Mathew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of GOD, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Mark 11:22 - And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in GOD.

Hebrews 4:16 - Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Does Busy Mean "Being Under satan's Yoke"? (3.8.14)

Good Morning!

I apologize for the length of this message but it truly is a 'must read'.
Let me know your thoughts on today's message.  

Feel free to post comments or start a discussion here on the blog.

Be blessed,

- Marilyn 

_________

satan called a worldwide convention of demons. In his opening address he said, "We can't keep Christians from going to church.  We can't keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth.  We can't even keep them from forming an intimate relationship with their Savior.  Once they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken."

"So let them go to their churches; let them have their covered dish dinners....But steal their time.  So they don't have time to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ."

"This is what I want you to do," said the devil. "Distract them from gaining hold of their Savior and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day!"  'How shall we do this,' his demons shouted.  "Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds,"  he answered.  "Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow.  Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to work 6-7 days each week, 10-12 hours a day, so they can afford their empty lifestyles.  Keep them from spending time with their children.  As their families fragment, soon their homes will offer no escape from the pressures of work!"

"Then, over-stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice," the devil continued. "Entice them to play the radio or DVD player whenever they drive... to keep the TV, DVD, CD's and their PC's going constantly in their home.  And see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical music constantly.  This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ."

"But don't stop there.  Fill the coffee tables with magazines and newspapers.  Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day.  Invade their driving moments with billboards.  Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogs, sweepstakes, and every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services and false hopes."

"Keep skinny, beautiful models on the magazine covers and TV, so their husbands will believe that outward beauty is what's important, and they'll become dissatisfied with their wives. Keep the wives too tired to love their husbands at night. Give them headaches too!  If they don't give their husbands the love they need, they will begin to look elsewhere," the devil instructed.  "That will fragment their families quickly!"

"Give them Santa Claus to distract them from teaching their children the real meaning of Christmas. Give them an Easter bunny so they won't talk about His resurrection and power over sin and death. Even in their recreation, let them be excessive...  Have them return from their recreation exhausted.  Keep them too busy to go out in nature and reflect on God's creation. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, plays, concerts, and movies instead!"

"Keep them busy, busy, busy!  And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences. Crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek power from Jesus. Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health and their family for the good of the cause."

"It will work! It will work!"

It was quite a plan! The demons went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to become more busy and more rushed, going here and there and everywhere.  Having little time for GOD or their families. Having no time to tell others about the power of Jesus to change lives.

I guess the question is, has the devil been successful at his scheme?

You be the judge! Does "busy" mean:

B-eing

U-nder

S-atan's

Y-oke?

No Matter Where the Road Leads, God is Always With Us (3.5.14)

When bad things happen we may never understand why. 

GOD tells us, For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.  As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts - Isaiah 55:8-9

Trying to analyze GOD's omnipotence is simply not possible. But there is one thing we can be sure of, All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful - Psalm 25:10,  whether we understand them or not.

When we encounter difficulties, it is easy to jump to conclusions. 

We sometimes think GOD is mad at us or He is punishing us. 

We wonder if GOD is not blessing us 

because we've disappointed Him in some way. 

But all through the Bible we see that some of GOD's closest believers

experienced the darkest nights.

Joseph suffered. David suffered. The disciples suffered. 

Elizabeth suffered. Mary Magdalene suffered. Martha suffered. 

Mary (Jesus' mother) suffered. Paul suffered. Jesus suffered. 

And each one of these men and women 

followed GOD's will for their life. 

Looking at the scripture, you will see that some of the most Godly men and women suffered. The abundant life that Jesus came to give does not come without struggle, any more than a butterfly can soar without a struggle from its cocoon. We could never open a cocoon and expect to find a butterfly ready to fly. Without the cocoon (struggle), the butterfly would not be strong enough to fly.

Jesus warned us that we would have struggles in this life, and yet for some reason struggles always seem to catch us by surprise. Consider it all joy, James said, when you encounter various trials…-  James 1:2 (NASB). Notice James said when and not if.

Jesus prayed the following prayer, My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will, - Matthew 26:39. There was no other way. GOD's will would have to be done for Jesus and so it is for us as well.

Take a look at the names given to the Holy Spirit: Intercessor, Helper, Counselor, and Comforter. The very nature of those names lets us know that we are going to go through difficulties, but thankfully GOD did not leave us to struggle alone. 

Jesus wept. The Holy Spirit groans. And GOD's heart aches. 

In one beautiful sentence, we catch a glimpse into the heart of GOD as we go through tough times, In all their distress he too was distressed, - Isaiah 63:9. We may not see GOD's face during the difficult days of pain, but you can be sure He is there, and many times His face is streaked with tears also.

As we practice Acts 17:28 - In Him we live and move and have our being, it does not mean that we will walk down a path void of treacherous twists and turns. 

It does mean that no matter where the road may lead, 

we are not alone.

Because GOD is with us.

Walk by Faith & Not by Sight. So Dry Your Eyes, for I have not Forsaken You (3.4.14)

My Child, 

There is nothing that you are going through, that I am not aware of. 

I see your trials and I see your pain.  

Please know that I have not forsaken you, I have not left you, I have not turned away. 

Please stop fretting about what you see, for what you see is not of Me. 

Remember what I told you, walk by faith and not by sight.

So dry your eyes, for I have not forsaken you.

Yes, I know your road has been rough 

and you are beginning to feel like all hope is gone. 

You don't want to feel that way, but you do. 

My Child, that is exactly what the enemy wants you to feel. 

Remember, I told you to call Me when he comes. 

You can't fight him with your strength; you need Me for this battle. 

Don't forget what I said, the battle is not yours it's the Lord's. 

Call Me, I have not forsaken you

My child, I see you going over reports. Yes, I know what the reports say. 

Why are you allowing the reports to intimidate you? 

You are allowing the reports to become your God. 

You are allowing your faith in those reports to cancel out My promises. 

I AM THE REPORT for your life; trust Me, I have not forsaken you.

Do you still feel forsaken? 

Then let Me remind you about the night We prayed. 

Yes, that night; the night before My Son died, the night He prayed for you. 

Death was near, yet He was on His knees interceding for you. 

Why would He pray for you, why would My Son die for you, and then I forsake you? 

You are My joy, You are My child, You are the heir to the Kingdom, 

so remember the Father will never forsake His children
____

Psalm 9:10 - And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.