Thursday, October 27, 2011

The Power of Rising Up: Overcoming Falls in Life

We have all experienced a fall of some magnitude in our lives, whether it be learning to ride a bike, stumbling while running, or tripping over a rock in the woods. The feeling of falling can be unexpected and can leave us with bumps and bruises, both physically and emotionally. If others saw us fall, it can even be quite embarrassing. The enemy would love for us to stay down and discouraged, but we have the power to rise up and overcome.

In our spiritual lives, we all make mistakes. We all have moments where we fall short of our own expectations or the expectations of others. It doesn't feel good, and it's usually unexpected. Sometimes, others see us in our fallen state and it can be embarrassing. We have all been there, and chances are, if God tarries, we will fall again. It happens, it's life, but we have to get back up again.

The enemy's ultimate goal is for us to stay down and give up. When it seems we have no more strength to fight anymore, when we are ready to stop striving to be better, the devil loves this season of our life. However, the Bible says "Rejoice not against me oh mine enemy, when I fall I shall arise.." (Micah 7:8) Not "if" I fall, or maybe, or I might, but WHEN. It's inevitable. It's going to happen. But when it does happen, how are we going to respond?

Three different people's perspectives at the cross serves as a powerful reminder of this concept. It was the darkest hour for Mary, the disciples, and many others. But even in that moment of despair and disappointment, they did not give up on their faith in Jesus. Mary went to see him while it was still dark, seeking him out in her time of need. The disciples, despite seeing Jesus crucified, remembered the promise he had made to them and did not turn their backs on him.

In the same way, we too can find hope and strength in Jesus, even in our darkest moments. It may be easy to give up and stay down, but we must choose to rise up and overcome. We can resist Satan's attempts to defeat us by focusing on God's Word and speaking words of faith, rather than defeat. We must remember that falling down is not the end, it's just a setback on the journey. With the help and guidance of God, we have the power to rise up and overcome.



Thursday, October 20, 2011

The Battle for Dominion: Understanding the Differences between God's Kingdom and the Kingdom of Darkness

There are two kingdoms in operation in the earth—the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness. All mind-sets, ideas, beliefs, and methods of operation fall under one of these categories; there is no gray area. The kingdom of darkness operates through a system the Word refers to as “the world.” It is a way of doing things that opposes the Word of God. The world system is based on the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16) and is headed for destruction. Operating according to the dictates of the world positions you for failure and defeat. God desires that Believers switch “systems” so they can get consistent results from the kingdom of God.
The world system is governed by the spirit of selfishness and is ruled by Satan. Everything from the way relationships are conducted to finances is based on principles that are designed to steal, kill, and destroy. We were all born into this corrupt world system, and many of us were a part of it at one point; however, as Christians we are now a part of a new kingdom and, consequently, a new system of operation. When we talk about kingdoms, there are a few key things to consider so that we can gain concept of how things work. There are some established principles about kingdoms that apply to both God’s kingdom and the kingdom of darkness. First, every kingdom has a king, and every king has dominion in his respective area of influence. Kingdoms have territories, as well as citizenship that is made up of people who are a part of that particular kingdom. Kingdoms have a constitution or set of rules that govern how the kingdom operates, as well as a government that involves hierarchy. Kingdoms also have armies that go to battle against other kingdoms when necessary. Those who are born again are a part of God’s kingdom and are to no longer govern their lives according to the world’s system. Our King is Jesus and our constitution is the Bible, which contains the guidelines for how we are supposed to conduct ourselves in the kingdom of God. The government of heaven is comprised of Jesus, those who have made Him Lord of their lives, and angels, who make up God’s army. The territory that belongs to us is the entire earth. Though the enemy has gained a lot of territory for his purposes and agenda, our job is to take back what God originally intended for us to have by spreading the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Believers have a specific area of influence that will enable them to take territory for the kingdom of God. We each play a vital role. The gifts, callings, abilities, and strengths God has endowed each person with is designed to help establish and advance the kingdom. There are people in our immediate circle of family and friends who we have been called to minister to. And there are arenas God has called us to infiltrate for kingdom purposes. We are called to go out into the world, into the marketplace, and into the public sector to bring the reality of the kingdom to people so they can ultimately give their lives to the Lord. Being effective for God’s kingdom will mean making some difficult decisions at times. The biblical account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego is a great example of how choosing the kingdom of God over the world system results in deliverance, protection, and preservation. These three Hebrew men refused to bow down to the god of Nebuchadnezzar, even in the face of execution. They were thrown into a fiery furnace because they wouldn’t worship a false god, but God showed up in the fire and delivered them. The Bible says that not one hair on their heads was singed (Daniel 3:27). Choosing God’s kingdom will mean saying no to the seduction and enticement of the world and turning away from the temporary pleasure of sin. In choosing God’s way of doing things, we will definitely face opposition and persecution. However, God will always deliver us and promote us when we trust Him.

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Unleash Your Potential: Harness the Power of a Renewed Mind

Your mind holds tremendous creative ability. That’s why God gave you an imagination—so that you could create mental pictures, add faith to them, and see those pictures manifest in your life. Your imagination holds the key to unlocking your potential and creating the life you desire. However, too often, Christians suffer from "stinking thinking," allowing negative thoughts and beliefs to take control of their minds and ultimately their lives. But it doesn't have to be this way.

Through the power of the Word of God, you can renew your mind and transform your thinking. Romans 12:2 says, “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.” When you renew your mind with the Word of God, you can prove what is good and perfect in the eyes of God.

It's important to understand that renewing your mind is not an overnight, one-time event. It's a daily process that requires dedication and commitment. By reading and meditating on the Scriptures, your thinking will be transformed to line up with the mind of Christ. And when you have the mind of Christ, you can accomplish anything.

The Bible also teaches that the issues of life flow out of the heart, or in other words, your mind, will, and emotions. If you can control your mind, you can control your destiny. It's up to you to make the decision to dedicate your life to changing the way you think. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 says, “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

By keeping your thoughts and imaginations in line with God and His Word, you will position yourself for success. You’ll have wisdom, discernment, insight and the ability to accomplish anything. A renewed, Word-controlled mind guarantees abundance and prosperity in every area of your life. So, don't wait any longer. Start today by setting your mind on the Word of God and let it become the focal point of your life and purpose!

Scripture References: Galatians 5:19-21 Romans 12:2 2 Corinthians 5:17 3 John 2 Proverbs 4:23 1 Thessalonians 5:23 2 Timothy 1:7 Isaiah 26:3




Wednesday, October 5, 2011

5 Ways to Incorporate Worship into Your Daily Life and Unleash God's Blessings

Worship is an integral part of the Christian experience and, like praise, it serves as a powerful tool against the enemy. Satan cannot stand to be in the presence of true worship because it brings God's presence and power into the situation. Worship also helps to focus our attention on God and away from the distractions of the world. Understanding the different ways we can worship will help us to cultivate a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God.

Worship should be approached with intention and purpose. It is an expression of our love, adoration, admiration, and respect for God. We often think of worship only in terms of singing songs at church, but worship is a lifestyle for those who are truly committed to their relationship with God. In John 4:23, Jesus states that "the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him." When we worship God in spirit and truth, we do so with a heart filled with love and reverence for Him.

Obedience to God is also a form of worship because it is through obedience that we honor Him. Anything He asks us to do in His Word and whatever He speaks to us individually, provides an opportunity for us to worship Him. When we give ourselves fully to God and respond to His promptings, our lives become living testimonies of worship.

There are many ways to worship God, and all of them require obedience on our part. Incorporating these elements into our daily lives will position us to be the true worshipers that God seeks. These include:

  1. Reading and studying the Word: Meditating on and internalizing God's Word puts us in the right frame of mind to worship Him. Our study times should be special moments of worship and connection with the Lord.

  2. Preaching the Word of God: Sharing the Good News with others and receiving the preached Word is a powerful way to demonstrate our love and obedience to God.

  3. Singing spiritual songs: Ephesians 5:18-21 instructs us to be filled with the Spirit of God and to speak to ourselves in spiritual songs, hymns, and melodies. Incorporating singing into our daily routine will help to maintain an atmosphere of worship around us at all times.

  4. Prayer and intercession: Prayer is a form of communication with God and worship. When we intercede for others and stand in the spiritual gap for them, we are worshiping God through our obedience to Him.

  5. The sacrifice of praise: Giving God our best praise, even when it is difficult, is a form of worship. It paralyzes the enemy and releases God's power into the situation.

When we make a conscious decision to worship God in all aspects of our lives, we will experience blessings and a deeper relationship with Him. True worship requires us to surrender our wills and fully embrace God's will for our lives.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Eternity: Your Choice, Your Destination

Eternity is a concept that is often difficult for us to grasp, as it is something that is beyond our human understanding. However, the Bible makes it clear that our eternal destination is determined by the choices we make in this life. Will we choose eternal life with God, or eternal separation from Him?

The Bible tells us that all people have an eternal spirit within them. Jesus said, "I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever" (John 6:51). The apostle Paul wrote, "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Corinthians 4:17). But what exactly does this eternal glory consist of?

For those who reject or neglect the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, the Bible paints a sobering picture of eternal separation from God, described as "the second death" (Revelation 20:14) and "the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:15). This is a place of perpetual darkness, constant evil, and never-ending suffering. Jesus Himself said, "where 'their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched'" (Mark 9:48).

In stark contrast, the Bible also describes a glorious eternal destination for those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior. The apostle Paul wrote, "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever" (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). In this place, "no longer will there be any curse" (Revelation 22:3) and "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Unlocking the Formula for Success in the Kingdom of God: A Step-by-Step Guide

Living in the kingdom of God offers many benefits, but to access them, we must prioritize doing things God's way. God has a specific formula for success in the kingdom, and if we follow it, we will see consistent results. This requires renewing our minds and being willing to do things differently, as God's method of operation is different from the world's.

The first step in this formula is speaking God's word. Many times, people have faith in their hearts but fail to release it because they don't actually say what God has said. Speaking God's word is crucial to getting results in the kingdom. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and if we don't speak, we can't create. Keeping God's word in our mouths at all times is vital because of the creative power of words. Hebrews 10:23 says, "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering." Our "profession" is our confession, or what we profess from God's word. We should make this a continual practice, as instructed by the apostle Paul. Continually speaking God's word through regular confessions also repels the enemy. Satan cannot stand against a believer who has a revelation of the power of speaking scripture.

The second step in God's formula is meditating on God's word. Meditation is simply pondering, considering, and muttering God's word. When we meditate on God's word, it expands our capacity for faith and transforms our ability to believe and receive. By meditating on the word, we fix our minds and set our hearts on the desired result we are seeking. Psalm 1:1-3 says that the man who is empowered to prosper is the one who meditates on the word day and night. Joshua 1:8 also states that meditating on the word makes our way prosperous.

The third step in God's formula is acting on God's word. Faith without works is dead, which means it's not enough to simply hear the word and believe it, but we must also act on it to reach our destination. Faith is a practical expression of our confidence in God and his word. Christians should not get preoccupied with the spiritual side of things and neglect to do anything practical in the natural realm. When God speaks a word, whether through scripture or a rhema word spoken to the heart, it requires some type of corresponding action on our part.

In conclusion, God's formula for success is fail-proof. Speaking the word releases faith, meditating on it builds the image of it inside of you, and stepping out on what the word says connects you to the promised manifestation. The result is success and absolute victory in every area of your life!

Mastering the Art of Trusting God: Navigating Life's Challenges with Patience and Grace

Are you tired of waiting for things to happen in your life? Do you find yourself constantly asking, "When, God, when?" Trusting in...