YOU'RE Still Good...

 YOU'RE Still Good...

There I sat in the dimly lit room in the morgue, holding her hand, angry and bitter.  I was so furious.  I thought I felt warmth coming back into her hand. I wanted that so badly. She died anyway. I prayed as hard as I could, then I cursed. I cursed her so hard.  I cursed God so much.  This was so wrong. How could this happen, without notice.  It was so sudden, and definitely too soon.  This was not how it was supposed to end.  So abruptly. So unprepared I was.  We'd just spoken two days ago.  No one told me it got complicated.  She never told me it got complicated.  I could have come sooner. I could have dropped everything and come sooner.  It hurt so much, even now it still does.  An entourage met me at the airport, but I didn't think anything of it.  I mean, it was thanksgiving right.  No one said anything about it. But once I opened the apartment door I just knew.  The gut wrenching pain I felt in my stomach, like someone was playing tug of war with my insides. The pull, the tear, the pain. I bellowed so hard.  Somehow I just knew.  I sensed that she had died, and I let them take me to the morgue to see her.   

It was a normal checkup, a regular checkup.  They made a mistake, and just like that, she's no more.  A simply wrong dosage. A small error, and she was no more. I literally just spoke to her. Why didn't she tell me to change my flight? We'd talked about things we were going to do, like make her perfect tiramisu for thanksgiving, etc...  This was just too much.  The walls came tumbling down. There I stood in a Jericho moment. Have you ever had one of those?  The moment everything that's supposed to be stable, powerful and perfect comes crashing down uncontrollably. Imagine, maybe your:

• Perfect marriage
• Secure family
• Beautiful children
• Super relationship
• Awesome friendship
• Secure job
• Financial security

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You just can't imagine your life otherwise. Especially if it happens suddenly. Death, no matter how anticipated is always painful for those left in the aftermath.  1 Samuel 31 David's best friend Johnathan dies in battle.  He'd been there for David and saved him from his father's wrath on several occasions.  Yet David couldn't save him and it broke his heart tremendously.  Several years later, David's son dies at the hand of God.  He had coveted a man's wife and got her pregnant.  Then he got the man killed to cover it up, and married the man's wife afterwards.  God killed the innocent child. 2 Samuel 12.  Then God sent a prophet with a judgement proposal for David.

2 Samuel 12: 15 - 20

15 After Nathan had gone home, the Lord struck the child that Uriah’s wife had borne to David, and he became ill. 16 David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and spent the nights lying in sackcloth on the ground. 17 The elders of his household stood beside him to get him up from the ground, but he refused, and he would not eat any food with them.

18 On the seventh day the child died. David’s attendants were afraid to tell him that the child was dead, for they thought, “While the child was still living, he wouldn’t listen to us when we spoke to him. How can we now tell him the child is dead? He may do something desperate.”

19 David noticed that his attendants were whispering among themselves, and he realized the child was dead. “Is the child dead?” he asked. “Yes,” they replied, “he is dead.”

20 Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate.

Samuel 24. Again, David sinned by taking a census of his soldiers.  He had forgotten that his victories were not as a result of his army, but God's power.  He was taking the glory for himself.  God is a jealous God.  Exodus 34.  David had done something that God did not authorize.  Be careful not to do those things.  Especially when you come into power, stay humble.  Only God deserves the praise. 

Proverbs 21:1

The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will. Every way of a man is right in his own.

John 19 During HIS trial, Jesus told Pilate , "You would have no power over me at all unless it were given you from above". This is a reminder that all earthly power and authority is permitted by God. Jesus voluntarily submitted to his crucifixion as part of a divine plan, not because of the inherent authority held by Pilate.  Power to God is like oxygen to man. It's innate.  It doesn't marvel God and it shouldn't marvel us.  We were made in HIS image and likeness. Infact from the very outset, in Genesis 1 God gave man power to dominate.  HE commanded us to dominate the earth.  What HE expects from us is reverence, honor and humility.  We're supposed to love on each other, not lord things over each other.  That was God's original intent for mankind. There was only supposed to be one Lord, and that would/ should be HIM.  However, we got the wrong memo. We keep trying to outdo each other, not understanding that we have different assignments.  Each life has a unique role, just as each body part serves a different purpose.  Sometimes we re-assign or reconfigure our roles.  (That's why we need the Holy Spirit to teach us).  But God is patient with us.

Despite our errors, God understands that we're HIS children.  As a father, HE gently guides us by the leading of the Holy Spirit.  Especially when we hurt, we need to maintain an attitude of submission.  This is learnt.  When we come to realize God's love and affection towards us, inspite of ourselves.  Sometimes our wounds can lead us into dark spaces.  Even when HE punishes us like David, HIS arms are always open towards us.  HIS arms are always ready to craddle us.  Romans 5.

Romans 8:32 

"He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?"

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Not until you've been backed into a dark space like the prodigal son in the pig's pen.  When you realize that your own efforts caused you to choose wrongly.  When you understand that you are powerless to make it right.  Then you will begin to appreciate God's unconditional fatherly love for you.   As HIS child, you'll allow yourself to experience HIS eyes searching for you; HIS arms waiting for you, and HIS wealth ready to enfold and smother you with HIS honest affection.  God isn't fickle.  Sure HE punishes us. But that's just a very small part of the process.  Our father in heaven, inhabits our praises.  Like David worship HIM.  After David's son died he chose to worship God.  This is the remedy.

When my sister died, I ran so far and hard.  But HE waited.  And everywhere I turned I kept hearing this song in my head: 

I Trust YOU Lord..

 

I had a Jericho moment. It's one of the hardest things I've ever encountered. Over the years, Our Father God has proven HIS faithfulness to me, over and over again. Sometimes I ran off like the Prodigal son Luke 15. And sure enough, there HE was looking out, and waiting with open arms. Sometimes, God chases you.  HE waits patiently in the background for you to wake up.  Love forgives without condemnation.   There are consequences, but it's just a part of the process.  The goal is reconciliation.  Sometimes like Job, my friends have accused me of things they don't understand. Job 4. Another Jericho moment. People are people! And Life is lifing! Jericho moments are the ebb and flow of it all. The only thing constant is the love of Our Heavenly Father towards us. No matter how many times we get it wrong, HE'S still good. HE'S still the most loving encounter we'll ever experience in our lifetime. Today, as I stand in yet another Jericho moment, I'm not running away. Instead, I've learnt to seek HIS embrace. It's safe, it's peaceful and it's rejuvenating. Are you hurting? What have you lost? What do you feel powerless to change or save? If you do, know this, HE forgives! HE heals! HE resurrects! HE'S the G.O.A.T. on restoration. Ask David, ask Paul. Better yet ask Jesus.

Romans 8:1

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

After over 30 years of a relationship.  My testimony is... HE'S STILL GOOD! 

Let HIM show you!

Rabboni....I Have Seen HIM!

 Rabboni....I Have Seen HIM! 

John 20

Have you seen HIM? Have you seen the risen Lord?  Has HE spoken to you? Has HE taught you nothing?  Are you currently in a real relationship with HIM?  Does HE call you by your name? Have you gone seeking for HIM? Have you gone alone? Have you waited earnestly?

After HIS crucifixion, after HIS burial in the tomb, after three days - Jesus rose from the dead.  HIS death on the cross released every believer from every power of sin and death; and also reconciled us back to the Almighty God our Father. 2 Corinthians 5 HIS resurrection means that we too have power over every sin and dead situation in our lives.  These situations include relationships that we think are irredeemable, dreams that we think are unattainable, miracles we believe are impossible, prayers we think are neglected, sins that we think are unforgiveable, maladies, careers, ministries, marriages, children, mistakes, losses, etc...  Our human experiences are very limited, and our exposure to 'smear' often limits our imagination.  Though we have the capacity, we are like birds in a recently opened cage.   We've been caged for so long, we are afraid to fly through the open window set before us.  Jesus's resurrection is about trusting HIS word and ability to set us free. But we do not always believe. 

2 Peter 1: 1 - 3 

His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

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Mary went to HIS tomb to see about HIM.  She was one of HIS close followers. HE had become her teacher.  Jesus had previously delivered her from an enslaved lifestyle.  Are you limited:

• Sometimes we have habits in our lives that we would love to change but feel powerless to do so.  For though we might have attempted to do it on multiple occasions, we often always fall back feeling trapped and overwhelmed.  
• Sometimes it our 'little' secret.  The thing that contaminates us, that we keep hidden.  
• Or maybe that 'big elephant in the room' that we can't escape.  Something so unforgettable or unforgivably wrong that was done to us that keeps us docile. 
• Sometimes it's what others have done to us or hammered in our heads by their compounded negative actions and / words.  We've somehow come to accept it as gospel.

HE came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. John 10. As HIS sheep, we are familiar with HIS voice, HIS presence.  If you feel far away from HIM, praise HIM!  Don't forget, HE inhabits the praises of HIS people. Psalm 22. We are fully equipped to live as victors rather than victims. If we still continue to live a life of bondage and defeat, then that makes Jesus' work on earth for our sake futile.  What's the sense in having the keys if we never use them? 

Matthew 16: 19

19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

Trust Jesus.  Believe HIS word. John 1 HIS incomprehensible sacrifice is incomparable.  Romans 5.  Jesus died for strangers, technically that's what we are, right? We have to go all in or not at all. That's what Jesus did for us.  HE went all in. In Gethsemane HIS sweat became blood.  HE walked through Jerusalem carrying a cross, humiliated for you and me. We need to seek HIM with all of our hearts.  We need to recognize that we need HIM daily. Let us not mock God.

Galatians 6: 7 - 8

7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

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We are victors! There is absolutely no circumstance that exist today that Jesus hasn't already provided a solution for us. 1 Corinthians 10 Nothing should be holding us captive.  And if it exists, then we like Mary should go in search of HIM.  HE really does love us and is interested in our good.  Jesus suffered so we wouldn't have to.  Life is to be enjoyed.  It is a gift.  It was God's intention.  It still is.  We do not have to settle.  HE gives us HIS peace as a seal of HIS signet ring.  When we walk in step with HIM, we understand that there are seasons. Seasons are a part of the process. But all seasons change!  Ask HIM for wisdom. 

Romans 8:32

He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?

Jesus brought grace and truth to us.  HE brought revelation.  Truth for obedience and grace for capacity and empowerment. God resolved our issue once and for all through Jesus' death. The Father wants a relationship, not a puppet. HE wants to commune with us as he did with Adam and Eve. The veil in the temple was torn in two by God from the top to the bottom.  We all have access. Jesus is our only High Priest, since then, our bodies have become the temple of God.  Jesus is our Emmanuel. 

1 Corinthians 6: 19 - 20

19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.

Life - It begins and ends with God. HE is the only one who can satisfy us completely because HE made us. HE knows and understands us, and HE wants us to live fulfilled lives. From the very outset HE told us to dominate. Genesis 1. But we are called to do it together. Sheep is both plural and singular simultaneously for a reason. God wants us to have an individual relationship with HIM, but to also do it in community. Romans 12.  Jesus did what HE expects us to do. HE completed HIS purpose. HE finished HIS race well. We need to honor God with our lifestyle.  Then we will fulfill Jesus' request to the Father, that we will be one and bring honor to God. John 17.  It is always about God's honor; we should never forget that!  

If we say we have seen HIM, then we ought to live in HIS resurrection power today! And if we haven't, then let us come away from all the noise and allow HIM to be our shepherd. Seek HIS truth and grace. Let go and let God renew your faith in HIM. Whatever we consider dead and buried, Jesus is the resurrection and the life. What is dead in your life is not too deeply buried for God. As with Lazarus, allow HIM to change your situation and command it to come forth. Roll away your stone of doubt and unbelief. Because HE lives, you can live too!  HE invites you to do so.  Seek HIM! Call HIM! Trust HIM!

TESTIMONY: Synagogue cantor finds what she was missing in Yeshua | I Met Messiah

WORSHIP: Charity Gayle - I Speak Jesus (feat. Steven Musso) [Live]

Trust Jesus again!

Can These Bones Live Again...PROPHESY! Ezekiel 37

Can These Bones Live Again...PROPHESY! Ezekiel 37

What situation are you facing today that seems completely hopeless and devoid of restoration? Are you feeling powerless to change a circumstance, or too overwhelmed to think about it?  Do you feel buried in unresolve? Is there something or someone that just seems unchangeable and irreversibly lost? If any of these match your reality, let's talk this through for a minute. What you feel powerless to do, 'Your Father' God is powerful to prevail.

Whatever the Almighty God has done before, HE is willing and able to do it again.  HE is not limited to time and space like us humans.  HIS ways and thoughts far exceed ours on every level. Isaiah 55 HE never sleeps nor slumbers and nothing escapes HIS purview.  HE'S never caught off guard.  It's extremely important that we know God's promises to us HIS children, and the power that HE bestows on those who choose to walk in obedience to HIS precepts. Study HIS Word. Recite HIS promises to HIM. Isaiah 43. Jesus before HE left HIS disciples and went back to heaven told them that HE had given them more power than any force that they could/ would ever confront in the earth.

Luke 10:19

Behold, I give to you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

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The Israelites who were considered the people of God had been disobedient to HIS laws. As a result, God allowed them to be captured by one of their enemies the Babylonians, who destroyed their city and robbed their wealth.  They were driven from their homeland to Babylon.  While they were in exile, God confirmed that HE had not forgotten them and that HE would one day take them back there.  They were very grieved and homesick, hopeless even.  They had given up on God and even started worshiping other gods.  Inspite of their waywardness, God sent the prophet Ezekiel to encourage them to return to worshiping HIM.  But before God sent him, God gave Ezekiel several visions.  God revealed HIS restoration plan for HIS people in several ways.  One of the ways was by showing Ezekiel a valley of dead people - dry bones; people who had been dead for a very long while.  It was a valley filled with dry bones and no water nor plants.  There was absolutely no sign of life around.  There were no human resources available to change the situation.  Do you have any 'dead situations' lying around/ any sealed tombs or closets/ any heavy stones to roll away? What about memories, lost dreams, forgotten hopes?

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Sometimes, God allows us to be stripped of our capabilities so that we will attribute all the glory to HIM for the transformation HE will cause to occur in our lives.  It is very innate for us as humans to be self reliant and egotistic.  When we achieve/ accomplish things we forget that the very energy to achieve it comes from God.  We sometimes forget that we don't own anything, and that we're just managers. Like the bones in the valley, from dust we came and to dust we will all return.  It is intrinsic to God that we walk in full obedience to HIS laws.  The wealth HE allows us to have can be stripped away as well as it can be restored.  Ask Job. The health that we have can be stripped away as well as it can be restored.  Ask Nebuchadnezzar or Miriam. The family, the job, the security, the master plan, the whatever it is that we have can be stripped away as well as it can be restored.  Will and or does God have to take it away from you in order for HIM to get your attention?

Sometimes it's not even gone, it's just on the other side of the boat.  Like when Peter and the disciples were out fishing all night and caught nothing.  Sometimes we just don't know where to look. Jesus sent them right back out again to the very same spot and told them to cast their same nets on the other side of the boat. This time the boat began to sink because of the overload of fishes.  Then Jesus told them that HE would cause them to fish for men instead. Luke 5 That's it right there.  

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When Ezekiel saw the dry bones, God told HIM to prophesy and cause the dry bones to become a resurrected army.  An army advances a kingdom.  An army takes territory and takes orders from a King for the sake of his kingdom.  Jesus told HIS disciples, when you have seen ME you have seen The Father. John 14. Jesus was on a mission orchestrated by The Father. When Jesus resurrected his friend Lazarus after four days, that's what sealed his crucifixion.  That's when the Pharisees plotted to kill him. Jesus' resurrection power was undeniable.  John 11 But more importantly, Jesus' crucifixion was the fulfillment of Ezekiel's prophecy of David uniting Israel. Caiaphas reiterated Ezekiel.  Jesus was from the bloodline of David. The crucifixion was about Jesus restoring mankind back to a right relationship with The Father, while regaining the power and authority God originally gave us in the garden of Eden. Genesis 1 At the very center of it all, God just wants us to acknowledge HIM and serve each other with the resources HE has given to us.  Power and property is to be shared for the sake of advancing the kingdom of God in the earth.  That's what Pentecost was about. That was the Acts church. Acts 2.

Every deficiency or lack in your life and community is an opportunity for you to walk in obedience to the word of God - PROPHESY!  When God asked Ezekiel, "Can these bones live"Ezekiel said "only YOU know Lord". Yes! God knows, let's say, a few things about power, and life, and death.  HE not only knows, but HE has a plan. Nothing on earth happens by coincidence. God always has a plan.  The thing is, are you aware of what it is?  Have you thought to ask HIM?  Have you chosen to wait on HIS response?  Are you walking in obedience? The veil in the temple has been ripped in two. There are no more secrets between us.  Mark 4 God's heart is right out in the open for those who dare to look.  God invites us to ask HIM the questions. 

Matthew 7: 7-8
7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

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The Almighty God is always about being in a relationship with HIS people.  HE chose to walk in Eden with Adam.  HE chose to lead HIS people in the desert. They were the ones who insisted on Moses being a mediator. They were the ones who insisted on an earthly king.  Yet, inspite of our rebellion and disobedience, God chose to restore us to himself; and in the process for us to bring others along with us. The things we receive or release are insignificant in the grand scheme of things.  They all have a lifespan. They are all tools God uses through us. The things are dry bones - hip bones, ankle bones, etc...  Whatever dead/ lifeless circumstance we encounter, our job is to prophesy.  

Speak what God says.  Declare HIS word over every situation.  Only then does the Holy Spirit take charge.  It is the Holy Spirit that gives life.  HE brought life to the dry bones in the valley. HE brought life to Lazarus and to Jesus in the tomb.  Jesus said, I must go, so that the Holy Spirit can come.  My job here is done.  I fulfilled my purpose.  John 16 Are you fulfilling your purpose?  Are you being led by the Holy Spirit? How are you allowing HIM to help you to change your situation for the sake of the kingdom? At the end of the day, is God getting the glory?  Where are you fishing? Are you still catching fish, or are you fishing for men too? God told Ezekiel that HE would restore HIS people as a testimony to the nations of HIS Kingship. Everything revolves around HIM. HE raises one and HE cancels another. Daniel 2 HE sanctifies and HE glorifies for the sake of HIS holiness. Romans 8 The harvest is extremely ripe.  The valley is full of dry bones. God is giving you an opportunity to live in power and purpose. Use it! Look around! Listen to HIM! Prophesy!

TESTIMONY: Jewish Air Force Colonel finds Yeshua in an unlikely place! - Why I'm One for Israel

WORSHIP: Israel & New Breed - Jesus At the Center (Live Performance)

The Almighty God is a Restorer - Prophesy!

Ephphatha! Be Opened!

Ephphatha! Be Opened!

Mark 7 is about three different stories/scenarios of 'shut tight' situations.  These are situations that require a massive, superior power of intervention for necessary change.  In all three instances, Jesus reveals that HE has the power to change impossibly difficult situations effortlessly.  Jesus reveals that the challenge isn't the situation, but faith in God is.

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Scenario One:  - The Laws Of God

(Open Your Heart)

The Pharisees condemned the disciples of disobedience to the laws of God. But Jesus rebukes them not just for disobedience but amelioration.  They rearranged the law and approved it, nullifying God's authority. 

13 So you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. You do many things like that.”

The Pharisees made the laws the issue. Plus, they did not consult God before changing the laws to suit themselves. Jesus revealed that God's intent was man's heart condition towards him and each other.  The laws were made as a guideline.  They are a path setout for us based on the 'conviction' of our hearts.  Jesus came to earth to explain the significance of the laws.  Jesus opened up our understanding of God's view. His compassion gave the laws (the skeleton) God's original intent - flesh.  HE demonstrated that obedience to the laws should be driven by compassion for God.  Obeying the laws without conviction is abominable unto God.  

6 He answered them, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites. As it is written:
These people honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.

7 They worship me in vain, teaching human rules as if they were doctrines.

God is interested in people who desire to serve and please HIM innocently.  Pride is a very subtle and dangerous weapon.  We need to stay humble. Our God and Father is extremely jealous.  HE will not share HIS praise with anyone else.  

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Scenario Two: - The Greek Syrian Phoenician Woman

(Open Your Arms)

God told the Israelites that they belonged to HIM.  Everyone one knew and saw that based on the countless victories Israel endured amidst their enemies.  Over the years, all the other nations feared, hated, and or rejected Israel.  Israel was set apart by God, and God protected and provided for them.  They alone were HIS responsibility.  Jesus was the first Jewish leader who offered an outsider the same opportunity as the Israelites.   HE listened to her story and afterwards granted her request and healed her daughter.  It's as if HE engrafted her. She understood that she was an outsider, yet she confronted God. Instead of turning her away, HE accepted her and improved her situation.

Mark 7: 26 - 30

26 The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter.

27 “First let the children eat all they want,” he told her, “for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.”

28 “Lord,” she replied, “even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.”

29 Then he told her, “For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.”

30 She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.

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Scenario Three: - The Deaf and Mute Man

(Open Your Eyes)

See what the Lord has done, is doing.  Jesus touched lives.  HE healed many people of all their diseases.  In this case HE touched a man and caused him to be able to hear and speak simultaneously.

Mark 7: 33 - 35

33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. 

34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, “Ephphatha!” (which means “Be opened!”). 

 

35 At this, the man’s ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly.

Jesus traveled all throughout the cities and towns exhibiting the love of God for people. HIS challenge to us was and is to first open our hearts to God.  Then open our arms to others.  Jesus demonstrates HIS love towards us by touching lives and souls; healing diseases and casting out demons.  HE did for us what we couldn't/ can't do for ourselves. Jesus is a healer.  HE restores completely. There is nothing that HE cannot fix. Jesus reconciles us to the Father. Romans 5. Seeing HIS actions towards us and others should lead us to hear/ listen to the 'Word Of God' and in turn share it with others.  John 15.  It is the word of God that has the power to change our hearts and minds. But we first need to feed our souls with the right kind of nutrition. For if we truly love God, then we will keep HIS commandments.  Our hearts need to be like fertile soil where the seed of God's word can take root. Matthew 13.

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.

Ephphatha!  This is God's cry to us today. Hear the heart of the Lord and go share it with others. Jesus did not come to earth to do away with the law.  The first two commandments are to love God first, and then love others next.  For how can we love a God whom we cannot see if we can't love our fellow men that we do see. 1 John 4. God's call to mankind is always to walk in obedience to the precepts of HIS word.  For faith find its roots in the soil of HIS word. Romans 10. The more we spend time in the word of God is the more that HE will reveal HIS heart to us with the assistance of the Holy Spirit who understands the nature of God, and gives us revelation. John 16. We need God's help to serve God well.  We cannot succeed without HIS power and intervention.  We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength.  Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly.  We have the power to overcome because HIS divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness, through our knowledge of HIM who called us by HIS own glory and goodness. We were born to thrive and dominate.  So DOMINATE!

TESTIMONY: Misused or Misunderstood? Defending the New Testament with the Old | Case For Messiah

WORSHIP: Breathe - Dunsin Oyekan #dunsinoyekan #worship #praise

God's word is the oxygen our spirits need to thrive in and dominate the world we live in!

You Are Not Alone - BE STILL..

 You Are Not Alone - BE STILL..

It's NEVER about your feelings nor fears. It's ALWAYS about your FAITH! Your faith is about your confidence in God as your source.  Often times you never know when or where HE'S going to bring the solution from. You just trust that HE will. HE is your only source. Everything and everyone is 'just a resource' HE will use.  You have to know the difference between the counterfeit and the real.  That comes with practice.  The more time you spend studying the real, then being able to identify the counterfeit a mile away is a given.

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Think about Jacob for a minute.  Genesis 25 - 35 He started out as a conniving artist.  He thought he had to cheat to get ahead.  It led him down a path of trials and tribulations, one demise after another.  He fled for his life from his brother; he wrestled with the angel; he got cheated by his father-in-law on several occassions. God used his cheating skill against him to remove what was inappropriate in him.  When Jacob returned to Canaan many years later he was a humble and honest man.  He had learnt to lean on God. When his father-in-law tried to cheat him with his wife, instead of 7 years he worked for 14 years. When his father-in-law tried to cheat him with the lifestock, he chose the lesser breed, yet God caused him to florish.  HE made God his source. His time away from home taught him to put his faith in God's ability and power.  

Genesis 28:20-22

20 Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes to wear 21 so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be my God 22 and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.”

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Think about the disciples caught in the storm. Mark 4. They were mostly fishermen.  That was their career, and they were good at it.  They thought they had to fish to get ahead. But God used their career to show them how insecure they really were. Their faith almost led them to a fate of death. In the boat with Jesus, they thought they were going to die.  God used their skill of fishing for fish to teach them how to 'fish for men'.  They were afraid of the natural elements, but became more afraid of Jesus after HE stilled the storm.  The disciples learnt to trust Jesus' transformative power. They chose to follow Jesus everywhere; even into the unfamiliar gentile territory.  (For instance: They were heading to the man who lived in the graveyard.  They saw Jesus cast the demons into the pigs.  Jews don't rear pigs. It's an abomination.) 

Mark 4

35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”

39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.

40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”

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 We cannot rely on our feelings and our fears.  Infact, our fear should be of God's power and authority.  HE has absolute authority over everything. Afterall, HE is the creator who existed before our beginning. We must study God's word. The devil needs God's permission to act; like us, he was created.  The devil often times wins against us because we are not familiar enough with our God and what HE says. God promised Jacob that HE would take care of him and take him back to his father's house.  God even promised him that he would rule over his brother Esau and become the father of many nations.  Also, Jesus told the diciples that they were going over to another town. Yet, they accused HIM of not caring if they drowned.  We have to be careful about who we believe.  Do you believe God about the things HE has said over your life?  It doesn't matter how you feel.  Fear is human.  You have to train your mind to walk past your fear into faith.  It's a discipline. Practice, practice, practice! That's why HE commands us to walk in the spirit.  Galatians 5 Without the guidance of the Holy Spirit we cannot win.  We need the Holy Spirit to be victorious daily. Luke 4 Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit.

2 Timothy 1:7

7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

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Even though Jesus had performed so many miracles alongside them, and had even sent them to do miracles themselves, they were still afraid.  The disciples had never seen anyone turn chaos and or mayhem into peace like that when HE calmed the storm.  Jesus exposed them to different dimensions of himself. After HE died, they went into hiding.  But HE told them to wait for the Holy Spirit. Once, they received the Holy Spirit, they became bold.  The Holy Spirit gives clarity, power and authority. John 16 We will have opposition like squalls raging all around us.  Sometimes we will feel like we're about to drown.  But you must not forget - Jesus is always in the boat of your circumstance.  Call out to HIM!  Wake HIM up from the stern of your boat. You are never alone in your trials and tribulations. HE has given us the Holy Spirit. Listen to the Holy Spirit's directive. Ask HIM to guide you. HE is the difference between real and counterfeit.  HE gives us discernment and courage.

John 14:26

26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

God's word to HIS believers is that HE will never leave us nor forsake us. Hebrews 13 If we put our trust in HIM, HE will prove faithful everytime.  Seek answers from the Holy Spirit. Become teachable, for HIS ways are not our ways, nor HIS thoughts ours. The kingdom culture is taught through the power of the Holy Spirit. If you want to live an abundant and liberated life trust God's leading. 1 Corinthians 2 Sometimes you'll just have to sit back and let God deal with your fears.  Don't resolve to fear. Resolve to push past fear and take a hold of faith.  Trust that God is able to handle every situation, and be still as you wait for HIS resources to show up.  God sent the raven to feed Elijah.  God stopped Balaam's donkey.  God drowned the Egyptian army following Moses.  Watch and see what HE will send next for you and your loved ones.  HE'S always on time! Anchor your faith in HIS ability! HE is for you! HE cannot lie!

WORSHIP: Israel Houghton - I'm With You/Be Still (feat. Adrienne Houghton) ft. Adrienne Houghton

TESTIMONY: Evidence of THE Messiah found in Isaiah 53?! | Case For Messiah

HE Is Your PEACE! BE STILL!

Sometimes You're It..

 Sometimes You're It..

Sometimes you're it! Sometimes you fall behind. Sometimes you get distracted by your own desires, ideas, emotions, lusts, etc...  Sometimes you get stuck. Stuck in your own ways, a ditch you didn't see; a ditch you thought you could cross safely; something you thought you could control or manipulate. A bad situation, relationship, investment, habit, loss. Life happens, and you get lost.  Fears creep in, and it's more than you can bear or want to.

Luke 15 Imagine the story of the lost sheep.  Left behind from the pack, maybe he fell into a ditch; got caught in a fence or maize; just caught.  Caught by a situation that was more than he could manage. He needed help. He needed finding.  Or imagine the story of the lost coin - falling into a really dark place, a dark situation, a helpless situation.  Imagine being deceived.  Being cornered or manipulated by someone you trusted. Sometimes you can get hurt in a very familiar place where the pain and the hurt causes you to cocoon and morphe into such a delicate position that you need to be sought after to become restored.

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You are not just another number. God knows you by name. Before you were formed in your mother's womb God knew you.  He carved out an entire plan for every moment of your life. Jeremiah 1 Inspite of HIS supremacy, HE'S meticulous about you. HE knows every strand of hair in your head. Luke 12 You are unique.  God doesn't make mistakes. Only humans do that. HE provides for the swallows, and the lillies are adorable. But you exceed them all.  HE is filthy rich and HE wants nothing more than to lavish you with more than gifts.  HE wants to share HIS space, HIS kingdom with you.  It is HIS intention to smother you with inconceivable wealth of life.  The things that you seek, the things that you chase after - HE wants to give them to you and so much more. Matthew 6: 25-34  Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. John 10  You are not forgotten! You are not hopeless! You are priceless! You are always priceless!

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Like the shepherd who intentionally went searching for the one lost sheep and rescued it from it's captivity, so too the Lord Jesus rescues us from our ditches.  Like the woman who lost the one of her ten coins, lit her lamp and searched vehemently until she found it; so too God is careful to shine HIS light into our cocoons.  Being found isn't just a story for the unbeliever, but for the saint as well.  It's the story for the one who is already familiar with Saviour.  The one who has already encountered Jesus, but chose to leave on his own accord like the prodigal son.  He grew up with his father and chose to leave early against the norm and laws of his heritage.  He soon discovered that his choices were wrong, and his father's ways and regulations were right after all.  His father's outlook of the path for his life was right on point. He came to his senses.

Luke 15: 17 - 20

17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father.

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

My plea to you today is to 'come to your senses'.  Allow God to restore you like the father did his son. Or the woman with her coin. Or the shepherd with his sheep.  The attitude isn't one of condemnation, but restoration.  You may have gone off on your own free will. But remember this, you're human. You cannot ever save yourself, nor block all the traps the devil sets for you.  1 Peter 5 The father was the one who was looking out for his son.  Everyday he was on the lookout for him.  The shepherd chose to leave the other 99 sheep and go after the lost one.  The woman chose to light the lamp and sweep until she found the lost one.  Sometimes you're the lost one.  Sometimes you will get distacted, deceived, lustful, proud, stupid, etc... Sometimes you will lose your way.  It's what we do as humans. Don't be too hard on yourself. 

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God is a restorer. That's why Jesus came from heaven to earth. HE came to reconcile us to the father. Psalm 23 HE is the shepherd.

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

God's attitude towards us is always from a place of love.  HE knows we can't save ourselves. Sheep are dumb. Coins are lifeless and young sons are stupid. Stop trying to live in your own strength. You will fall, fail, sink, drown, cocoon. Cry out to God and let HIM rescue you.  When you find youself in a dark place, Don't run from God, run to God! Let go and let God take you into HIS arms. Feel HIS palm enclose around you. Isaiah 41 God made Jesus become human and give up the wealth and royalty of heaven to give us the opportunity to experience and enjoy HIS lifestyle and love. 2 Corinthians 5 Give God a chance to restore you. HE'S so excited to have you back, like the rich father of the prodigal son  who has a feast. Or the woman who calls her neighbors. God throws a party in heaven. The angels rejoice.  

And remember, when you've been restored, extend grace to others.  From time to time others fall behind and or in a ditch. Sometimes, others are the lost coin. Sometimes you're it!

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WORSHIP: 

Why (Live From The Loft) | feat. ELEVATION RHYTHM | Elevation Worship

TESTIMONY:

Don't stay lost. Come to your senses!

HE'LL Do It Again..

 HE'LL Do It Again..

"I am man, nothing human is foreign to me" - Terence

We may be from different tongues, different tribes, different cultures, backgrounds,etc..., nevertheless we bleed the same blood when we're wounded; and we get hungry when we're not fed. It's the same as saying all dogs bark, maybe differently, but they do.  All fishes need water, all birds can fly and all humans need God. Each creature is receptive based on its nature. We have the same basic needs.

2 Timothy 3

Every story in the bible is recorded as an example for future reference. If God delivered someone from an impossible situation, it's an example that you can rest assured HE'LL do the same for you. HE is The Almighty God. HE created the world by just using HIS words. We are but ants in HIS gigantic universe. HE'S got it. HE is it. HE is powerful enough. Plus, HE has also given you the power to overcome it. Luke 10 There's no power or authority in the earth that is greater than the power that God has given to those who walk by faith. The key to the equation is, do you walk by faith? Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11. You must believe that HE is, and that HE is a rewarder of them who diligently seek HIM.

CASE STUDY: 

Daniel 3 There were three hebrew men who were captured and being groomed to serve the royalty of their captor.  Their faith caused them to refuse to bow to and serve the gods of their new government. As a result they were thrown into a fiery furnace as an example to others who might choose to do the same. The men were adamant that they would prefer to die than to submit to a faith that was contrary to their beliefs. In the end, a miracle took place. Their God not only showed up in the fire visibly to all, but caused them not to get burnt nor singed by the fire. As a result the king order everyone in the kingdom to surrender to and serve the God of the three men.

What is your fire today? Will you concede to an action that does not line up with your faith for a quick fix? Will you hide behind something/ someone and ignore the truth? Or will you affirm like those three men that your faith is in a God who is real and who delivers. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Greater is HE who is in you than HE who is in the world. Never forget that!  Our God is mighty to save. If HE delivered the hebrew men from a furnace unsinged, HE can and will do the same for you. Trust HIM! Give HIM a chance to prove it. HE'S a miracle working God.  HE has given us so many different examples in the bible.  Remember Samson when God gave him back his strength.  Faith is a heart condition.  It's more than emotions. It's a lifestyle. Jesus was the perfect example.  Over and over HE tried to show the disciples how it was done.

John 14:11-14

11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. 12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

God loves to display HIS power, especially in impossible situations. Are you in an impossible situation today? Will you trust HIM today!

TESTIMONY: 

WORSHIP: Do It Again | Live | Elevation Worship

Ask and believe. Let God do the rest!

When The Rubber Hits The Road..

 When The Rubber Hits The Road..

            There comes a time in our faith journey when a bad incident happens and our results are unexpected and disappointing.  Something unusual happens and life throws you a curve ball below the belt where it hurts. Are you there yet? Have you ever  lost faith because of a betrayal? Someone refusing to act when/ how necessary? Your friend/ family member or community unsupportive? Have you ever felt stranded? It's like getting a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere.

• It's a place of a great crescendo, then a steep batholith to follow. 
• It's the story of Julius Caesar being stabbed by Brutus.  
• It's Alanis Morrisette in Ironic.
• It's Joseph thrown in the pit by his brothers
• It's Jesus leaving Gethsemane without his friends

It's the day you don't want to roll out of bed when you think about what lies ahead.  But rest assured, it is 'lies ahead'.  Whose narrative will you believe, the one in your head or the one that God dictates.  Whose report will you believe?

HIS word to us always is 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'. Deutoronomy 31 

Proverbs 3:5-6 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. But in all your ways acknowledge HIM, and HE will direct your path'.

1 Corinthians 10:13 

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 

No matter how hopeless a situation may seem, there's always a good solution.  Don't give up. Don't give in. Don't sin! God promises to make a way out.  Trusting HIM is hard sometimes, even seemingly stupid. But the truth is, HE is your biggest supporter. When you keep your eyes on HIM and HIS word, HE will always make a way. HE is the God who spoke light into darkness. Every dark reality must surrender to HIS command.  It is this same command that HE has given to HIS children, HIS believers.  HE has given us dominion. Genesis 1:26

The question is do you believe HIM?

It doesn't matter who isn't there when you need them. Humans err.  God is not afraid nor surprised by anything under the sun. If He says HE's with you, my friend, be strong and courageous! Ask HIM to reveal HIS presence to you. Ask HIM to open your eyes so you can see like Elisha that there are so many more that are for you than against you. HE is for you! 2 Kings 6 

TESTIMONY:

 

WORSHIP: The Blessing with Kari Jobe & Cody Carnes | Live From Elevation Ballantyne | Elevation Worship

Trust HIS timing to bring it to pass!

The POWER of Altars..

  The POWER of Altars ....

The Almighty God, the Father is a Holy King.  HE will only permit humans in HIS presence to address HIM in a holy form.  The human nature is automatically sinful/ unholy.  So in order for us to appear blameless/ holy before God, we need Jesus' intervention.  It is our relationship with Jesus that transforms our appearance to the Father. God does not tolerate sin. That's why Jesus, came to earth. HE came as a bridge for mankind. We assume Jesus' holiness in order to enter into God's presence. 

Jesus came as a spirit who inhabited a human body. HE is the only full form of complete human righteousness that has ever appeared in the earth. Hence, for us to appear righteous before the Almighty God we need(ed) to use Jesus as our scapegoat. Light and darkness cannot co-exist. Sin represents darkness. We need to first repent.  The human nature is unholy/unrighteous.   Prior to Jesus' coming to the earth, God accepted sacrifices on an altar from a high priest. Hebrews 9

The business of dominion and power is a complete process. At an altar humans receive and or revoke power and authority. The reason the Hebrew nations were feared in history was because of the power of their 'living' God. It starts with repentance. Romans 8 Repentance includes:

• Acknowledgement of our sinful human nature
• Acknowledgement of existence of the spiritual nature
• Choosing to be dominated by the spiritual nature
• Inviting Jesus to be Lord of the process 

Genesis 1: 26-30 

26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

27 So God created mankind in his own image,
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them.

28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

29 Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 30 And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food.” And it was so.

In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, HE  gave man dominion.  However, the devil tricked man into transferring his dominion rights to him.  As a result man lost dominion.  God sent Jesus into the earth to restore dominion and power to man. But in order for that to happen, we would have to follow the process. 

Jesus, after he returned from the wilderness where he was tempted by the devil; the first thing HE said was REPENT. If you want to be a victor instead of a victim you have to walk in obedience and resemblance to who and what Jesus said and did.

THIS IS THE PROCESS:

1. Repentance
2. The Word
3. Sacrifice
1. Personal Sacrifice
2. Sacrifice of Praise & Worship
3. Prayers (petitions, etc...)
4. Sacrificial Gift
4. Prophecy

An altar is like an airport.  It is a place of commuter exchange in the spirit realm.  It is the only point in the earth where a spirit can enter the physical realm through the form of a body. It's a gateway.  It is the most powerful place on earth.  Destinies gain/ lose strength there.  There are two major powers.  The altar of the 'Throne of Grace'  represents good, and the altar of 'sin and iniquity'  represents evil.  Evil altars are a copycat of good altars.  At an altar there is a god who demands acknowledgement and sacrifices in return for power.  The Almighty God is the God of the Throne of Grace, while the devil is the god of sin and iniquity.

The Almighty God is a King, therefore HIS WORD is law.  It is important to know HIS WORD in order to effectively communicate with HIM. God requires repentance from humans for first giving up their dominion (which HE gave them) to the devil.  Romans 10 The only thing that a human has that God did not first give to him is worship.  Everything originates with God.  Because HE has freely given you everything you have, your correct response of acceptance and appreciation must always be one of sacrifice.  Romans 12 God has a protocol.  Everything which HE requires has an outline.  Psalms 100, Psalms 150, Matthew 6, Philippians 4, Proverbs 3, Leviticus 27, etc... When we follow HIS protocol HE gives us HIS revelation by way of a prophecy.   A prophecy is a message that has been communicated to a person by a supernatural entity.  Everything the devil does is a copycat to God.

Once a human takes back his dominion from the devil then he is in right standing with The Almighty God.  He then has more power than the devil based on his reconciliation which Jesus enabled.

Matthew 28: 18

18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.

It was a serpent who tricked Adam and Eve into giving up their dominion.  Jesus restored dominion over this same serpent.  Matthew 16

Luke 10: 19

"I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and to trample on all the power of the Enemy; and in no case shall anything do you harm.

Matthew 18: 18-20

"Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them".

The only way to live according to the ordinance of God is to walk in obedience to HIS Laws.  1 Peter 2 Man was made to live a fulfilling life full of power and dominion. Altars give power and repentance gives dominion.  Draw nigh unto God and HE will draw nigh unto you. James 4  You cannot serve two masters.  Victory belongs to Jesus.  When HE died on the cross HE declared "it is finished!"Revelation 1  The ultimate power belongs to The Almighty God and HIS children.  It's your choice today.  Take back control!

TESTIMONY: A Jewish Defense of the Trinity - The Case for Messiah

WORSHIP: Jubilee Worship - Atmosphere Shift (feat. Phil Thompson)

Our God is Champion! HE Reigns forevermore!