Sale is on sale

I know, I know. The last thing you want to hear is “don’t spend money” when every store in town is having a sale on their sale. Yes, they are half off and if you buy three the fourth one is free! AHHHHHH. Advice: drop the sweaters or whatever and run for the door. Especially if the items were for you and not anyone on your gift list! Ask yourself three questions if the item is for someone else… 1) who is this for? 2) why is it for them? 3) am I spending an appropriate amount? If the item is for you ask these three questions… 1) do I NEED this? 2) Is it a ridiculously low price? 3) can I live without it? After this you should feel convicted enough to walk to the door empty-handed and go home, make pancakes for dinner and do a craft or read a book on finances - lol. Merry Christmas to you! You just saved a ton.

Finances (part 2)

When you hear something like “get your finances in order” and then several confirmations of just that one thing but nothing else, no other words, your mind begins to wonder, as mine has been. I wonder, get finances in order because… there’s a tornado/tsunami coming like in my dream last summer (blog on July 12, 2009) or is it because there are some things He wants us to be able to take advantage of, some financial firsts that will be available next year? I stopped myself because I don’t want to say what people want to hear. I want to say what God says. Lord your guidance, mercy and grace is ever so needed.

Finances

Get your finances in order.  That's all I have right now.  I just keep hearing get your "finances" in order.

Prep for Goodbye 2009

Two weeks ago I started preparing to say goodbye to 2009! I stopped myself as I realized I was complaining. Key: How do you stop complaining? Find the good in the issue. I began to remember all the great things God did this past year and found myself in a praise. Yes, 2009 was a year of trials, tests, fiery darts, and losses but at the same time in all this you can see how God was always there. He was carrying you through. He gave you opportunities to regain yourself. When something was taken He gave you something else. He’s rearranging and preparing things for His purposes. He’s giving people a new priority list. I heard God saying 2010 would be a year of revelation and manifestation. Seems like 2010 has already started, as last night my husband received a manifestation followed by a revelation. That prompted this blog coming to you to bring hope if you are still pushing through the devastation of 2009. It was something he knew in his heart but hadn’t manifested until last night. So yes, we say goodbye 2009 but with a praise because we have a knowing of what God has done and a glimpse of what He will be doing.

Vision (part 2)

There will be obstacles. At times so severe you will not only question your vision but your very existence. Whenever a new frontier is to be conquered you will have things that come against you. Know this… God did not raise you up to fail. He did not give you a vision He was not going to stand behind. You need to refer back to the notes you wrote when first planning the vision. Read when God confirmed it to you. Proclaim it. Put yourself in remembrance of God and His greatness and how many awesome things He's done. Begin to thank Him for the vision coming to pass. Remain in an attitude of thankfulness, joy and praise. This will help you press on past the obstacles.

Vision (part 1)

Regarding VISION… what is it that you desire to do? What is it that if you don’t get to do this in your lifetime you will feel like you died or are unsuccessful? What is your passion? What brings you the greatest joy and lines up with His word? What brings you the knowing you pleased God? THIS is the vision that you are to fulfill. Start praying for confirmation from God. When you get confirmation of this, write down what God told you. Then write down what your vision looks like, draw in pictures. Every day begin at least one process of bringing the vision to pass.

He will do it

A downside to being a “planner” is we are always looking toward the next thing. Wanting to see or plan the path forward. What’s next? What do we do after this? God doesn’t usually show you exactly where you are going and that can be challenging. You know you’re destination but you don’t see the road or the vehicle taking you there. The word lately has been… enjoy the now, enjoy today. Also, He has said that He will do it. Do what? Whatever needs to be done for your destiny to be fulfilled. He will open the doors. Our part: remain obedient, stay in the word, be prayed up, fast regularly, be ready and always joyful. We have the easy part! Would you want to manage every single good and evil person in the world, every prayer, every angel, every cloud, star, ocean, wave, animal, etc, etc?

This will NOT take you out

I have had a health struggle lately. It’s pretty intense. I have been practicing what our Pastor says about speaking faith words over my situation. I pray over myself for healing and speak no weapon formed against me shall prosper. One night a great song came on and a dance came over me. I was moving about the room and I heard God clearly say, “This will NOT take you out!” I began to weep while still dancing and praising Him. He is so awesome to give a word when we are in need. New level, new devil, new anointing! Rejoice through the trials and tests, again I say rejoice.

How do we walk in love

Try to always keep a smile on your face. Be positive in every encounter. If they don’t reciprocate continue in this kind manner – no matter what. Our attitude and how we even perceive ourselves is also key. Know that you are a child of God and He commands us to love one another. Make it a habit to think good thoughts of everyone. Prejudice can enter for several reasons… if you have too much money or not enough money, or look different, or skin color, our car, the way we dress, our hair color (I have been treated poorly by other ladies because I wasn’t blonde and didn’t fit in their “Christian” group. How sad.) I think the lesson learned is this… no matter who does what to you we have to be kind back. Then make a mental note that those people are not your friends. Love them from a distance if need be. God created you fearfully and wonderfully. Be comfortable with your individuality.

The Salesman

I’ll never forget the first time we visited my husband’s favorite clothing store in Oakland. No one wanted to wait on us. We were the minority and the workers made it very clear we were not welcome. How sad as I learned later most of these people are Christians. Anyway, one older man did finally speak to us and was helping my husband with a hat. He and I got into a rather heated discussion. He was talking about how his people are discriminated against and how hard it is. I explained to him that this type of thing happens to everyone. He stopped, stared at me like I was nuts, then dismissed my comments thinking I misunderstood him. He continued with his stories and I said again, I deal with discrimination all the time, have for years. Even in the church! And, when we visit any churches back east we have to deal with this type of treatment. Its ugly and it hurts so bad on my insides. He was in utter amazement at my statements. Then I asked him, “Why are you angry with me? Have I treated you badly? No. Is it because of slavery? Were you there? No. Was I there? No. So why are you mad at me when I did nothing to you?” Believe it or not by the time my husband's shopping spree was over this man and I were friends, laughing and talking the rest of the time. It was truly amazing. For the record, I believe slavery came to be by the Europeans who purchase people, then sold them to the American’s who then set them free. Let’s get past this and love one another as God commanded so we can receive His blessings and be in line with His Word. Prejudice CAN keep you from God’s blessings. We HAVE TO walk in love. Can we love one another?

Let her know

Pastor Carl Smith @ www.newbirthcal.org is doing a series called “Focus on the Family.” He started the series addressing the men because they are the “head” of the household. They are to be the leader. They are to have a vision. Pastor said, and this is key men, “that no one wants to be married to a parked car and no one is willing to follow when they don’t know where they are going.” It’s so important to make the vision known, even if you don’t know the exact route to get there, let her know WHAT the vision is. This way she can pray for you that doors open and connections are made so the vision can become a reality. Make the vision known to her. Share your dream.

Correction

What do you do when correction comes to you? Yes, you’re hurt and you want to run and not go near the person or place that corrected you but that’s not the answer. Correction comes because God loves you and is trying to train you up to take a higher place in your life. You need to stay in the game. Yes you’ve been benched for a game or season but you still attend the game. You attend and learn by watching, listening and supporting the rest of the team. Don’t run it only makes the process longer and you will be unprotected during your running outside the court. Keep attending. Can the coach call on Maggette to play if he’s not waiting on the bench? No. Keep attending.

Key to saints

Key to saints laboring in service: It’s crucial to cover yourself in prayer and have private prayer time. The only time your “on” is not just when you are with the man or woman of God or serving the people of God but more importantly offline without them. This prayer time is when you get in tune with God. This will cause you to serve better and be in line with what God wants. You will know without being told the direction to head because God already revealed it to you. When an announcement comes it bears witness with your spirit and you get on board. So instead of 10, 20 or 50 servants all running around in different directions we become one army of people at the battle line moving forward taking over the territory.

Key to leaders...

Key to leaders/prophets/teachers/prayer warriors: Promote others... although it seems others have the same gifting or territory, don’t worry about your place, those other people have a different assignment from God. Promote those that have been faithful, ask God to reveal them to you. They may even look the same as you but they are not. Only you can do what God has called you to do. Keeping them down will diminish you. Don’t be afraid.

Judges 6:1

In the Old Testament book of Judges chapter 6 verse 1 it tells that the Israelites did evil in site of the Lord. So the Lord gave them into the hand of the Midianites for 7 years. [What was the evil they did I wondered, I read on.] The Lord sent a prophet to remind them what God had done for them, He had brought them out of bondage in Egypt and oppression and gave them the land. Then the prophet also reminded them that God said, “do not fear the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now dwell” but they had not obeyed. [Ah, there it is! FEAR! God said do not fear their gods but they did. They were living in caves and mountains in fear. Key: fear makes God angry and brings judgment. I read on.] When Israel sowed their seed the Midianites destroyed it. So the Israelites became impoverished and cried to God. [Key: fear can cause you to loose your seed, you’re blessing.] But God heard them and sent an angel to speak to Gideon and called Gideon a mighty man of fearless courage saying he would save Israel from the hand of Midian. Gideon asked, “How can I do this, my clan is the poorest and I am the least in my father’s house.” [Funny how God chooses the “unlikely” to get a job done.] Then God, as awesome as only He is, instructed Gideon on how to fight and win with just 300 men against the Midianites and the Amalekites and all their sons whose camels were without number, as the sand on the seashore. [Here’s the awesome part.] They won by blowing trumpets! [One more Key from this: music/instruments have power. Careful what you listen too.]

Harp and Bowl

Last Saturday at prayer a lady spoke some things that I believe are a telling of what will happen at the Harp and Bowl. During her prayer she spoke “The Lord would rain/reign in this house, His train would fill the temple.” We are to praise until the walls come down and bondage’s are broken so that God be glorified. Praise until God be glorified. Whether she was prophesying or calling things in, her prayers agreed with my spirit and I stand in agreement. The “Harp and Bowl” is all night prayer and praise. We expect to hear from God and receive a greater revelation of who He is (as written in Revelation). We expect to receive direction, encouragement, healing, release of new gifts, new songs and most importantly to sit and lay at His feet spending time worshipping Him as He moves about the sanctuary meeting each person. Every church should do this.

Broken connection

We arrived at our car and it would not start. It’s a newer truck so this was especially strange. My husband looked under the hood. The cable to the battery was completed rotted off so there was no connection for it to get what it needed to survive. You can say you are a Christian but if you are not connected to Jesus Christ through prayer, communication, attending church and believing in His word then your connection is no good. You can say you go to New Birth Church but if you don’t have a “connection” to it you’re not going anywhere. Selah.

Go! Walk on water

Karla was praying us out last night and I heard God say, “The thing people are praying for and believing for is already done, its available to them. If they just get in line with my word, it is done. Its not a question of will I do it, can I do it nor is it a question of your abilities and resources. I have gifted each person with what they need to fulfill their purpose. Whether they are equipped is not the problem. Whether they can do what I’ve called them to do is not the problem. That’s not what’s holding up their blessing or holding them from receiving or going forward." Peter had his eyes focused on Jesus and he walked on water. But when he looked at his situation (the waters churning = your issues, concerns, inability’s, lack of resources) he started to fall when he got his eyes on himself. Peter got worried about making it, he was questioning the ability to walk on water and he started to fall. And Jesus, as awesome as He is reached down and pulled Peter up.

Pressure draws

Are you dealing with an unbelievable amount of pressure? Pressures like physical sickness, too many bills, depression, death, mind battle, etc? This pressure being applied to you is to draw you closer to God. To make it through these pressures you need to fast, pray, speaking to God daily, asking Him for His help and direction. Draw closer to Him. He allows the pressure to come upon you so you come closer to Him. Don’t pull away during this time. Get up a little earlier and pray, talk to Him. He’s drawing you closer.

Remedy to reality

As I was speaking with someone I realized I had spent too much time on the problem and five seconds on the remedy. When I was done she sat there staring at me. People don’t want to hear negative they know their mistakes already. Note to self: cut to the chase with the remedy then spend time with examples on how to make the remedy a reality. Perhaps some can handle the one line remedy delivery style but looking back I see more words of training on “HOW to get thru” instead of “WHY you got there” will bear fruit that will produce.

Request to go

My husband’s grandfather, when he became elderly and unable to continue, asked the Lord to come and take him home. Within a day or two he passed away. I didn’t know such a request could be made or heard by God. Well, last week my husband’s uncle, the eldest of the twelve children from that grandfather told his wife, “I’m going to ask God to take me home.” She started calling all the relatives to come see him one last time. Within two days he passed away. If you hear of a godly man asking God to go home and you are connected to them, get to them right away to receive your blessing from that person. They have something to pass on to those around them.

Fear and Faith

Here's my favorite part of last night’s teaching at New Birth Church… faith and fear operate in the same principle. Faith is from God. Fear is from the d. Example: You fear something and you become connected with it. How? You begin to think differently because of your fear, so your emotions react with fear, your thoughts are of fear, you start to behave differently because of your fear and you even start to speak with fear as your concern. This fear is actually driving the direction of your life by you speaking and preparing for your fear. You, as one created in the image of God that has the ability to speak things that are not as though they were, are putting the fear into reality. In the bible, Old Testament, Job 3:25 he said this, “the thing that I feared has come upon me.” When you fear something it takes hold of your life. So if fear can do that then what can be accomplished if we believe, think and act by faith? My goodness the possibilities are endless. What are you believing by faith for? Set these things in your mind’s eye. Set what you’re believing for in your thoughts and in what you speak. Start preparing for what you’re believing for and watch it manifest. This needs to be applied to your life. Keep believing by faith, speak it, see yourself receiving what you’re believing for, and prepare for it.

Dream Game

I have a game that I made up many years ago. I call it “DREAM.” We all sit in a circle and take down all our airs. We go around one by one and each person has to answer this question… “If you went to heaven right now and you could bring back with you one item, what would it be?” Stop and ask yourself this question. Ok, now ask yourself “Why? Why that?” Remember, you can bring back whatever you want. Wisdom, a house, the gift of healing, a Lamborghini, wealth… anything. As this goes on it gives great insight to people and what their goals are. You start to see who is called to be a king, a priest, a prophet etc. Participants even realize something about themselves, their desires and the direction for their life. Some people try to get a shopping cart and pick up everything. I think if you were to get a hold of the “presence of God” that would be all you need. In His presence is fullness of joy, peace, healing, wisdom, everything you need. When you kneel to pray and you feel His presence it’s the most awesome thing. Sometimes I am speechless, sometimes I cry at His powerful presence, sometimes I cry because He is so holy and I am humbled as I am so the lowly. As its been said, (paraphrased from the bible), “Lord, if your presence does not go with us then I don’t want to go.” Dream people and take the presence of God with you.

What if (part 2)

So lets say Pastor Kee was feeling low and depleted but in the situation God met him there and quickened his faith to believe for a miracle. We have to remember that it’s all God when we are obedient. Yes, we obey the call but God gets all the credit. He is the one who makes anything happen. So Pastor Kee obeyed God to fulfill the call on his life and be a conduit for healing to pass through him from God to the baby. We are conduits for everything God wants to bring to the earth realm. Makes you think about every aspect of your day… if I do this who will it affect, if I go here or there how will that affect my family, if I eat something bad or smoke how will my children be affected will this shorten my life? Every act of living right, every act of obedience is connected to something so it seems. Lord help us to live and walk in obedience.

What if

I enjoy the music of John P. Kee. I love one of the older songs where he tells this story… after traveling about he arrived at his hometown airport. People were waiting for him and they asked him to come to the hospital to pray for a baby that was diagnosed with a rare disease. The doctors were professing doom but Pastor Kee called the family around and said lets begin to thank God in advance for what He’s about to do. The baby was healed! So… What if he hadn’t gone to the hospital? Would the baby have died? Would God have raised up someone else to have faith for the babies healing? Perhaps Pastor Kee was tired and feeling low and depleted but in the situation God met him there and quickened his faith to believe for a miracle. What is your obedience tied to? Who is your obedience tied to?

Playing Jonah

Ok, so God is asking you to do something. You ignore, run in the other direction, busy yourself with other things, tell Him you can’t do it, you’re not able. Guess what? He is able through you. So if you’re “playing Jonah” I have to ask you question’s like… why are you running? What direction do you really want to head with your life? If you do what God is asking what’s the worst that could happen? Why can’t you do it? What are the obstacles? Give an example of each obstacle and a solution. Envision how God will make a way while your fulfilling your call. What’s God’s bigger picture in this situation? How will He use your obedience? God called you surely He will assist you. Fulfill your destiny. You know it’s the only way you will be happy. Live your purpose and be fulfilled. Live Jonah!

Parking lot sermon

Brother Gerald, one of the parking attendants, is a faithful servant of God. We are so grateful for him. We walk up to him and he greets us with a wonderful smile, shakes our hand and passes the peace. We usually ask him, “What’s the sermon today?” This last time he said, “Relationship!” We stood there waiting for his elaboration. “You can’t get anything without relationship.” He says. “You can’t even take money out of the bank without a relationship with the bank. Same with God and same with us. We need to be in relationship with one another.” There was much more as he spoke. We were blessed before we even stepped into the church! Through a great leader, Pastor (Apostle) Carl Smith, God is raising up his believers to serve and battle. Hallelujah! When you are connected to something great it causes you to be greater. You glean from the greatness you are attached to. Whether it be a friend, boss, teacher or your church/pastor. New Birth Church

What does it mean to me

When we attend church we should be asking ourselves... How can I apply this to my life? Or, what is God saying to ME? Same thing when you read a blog. God, how can this impact my life for the better? Help me hear your voice through this message. Give me instruction for my life. I receive from you Lord Jesus the power and strength I need to do all things that come my way. Lord use this time, sermon, reading, teaching, prophecy to build me into the person I am to be so that You can be glorified to all people. So they can know you, hear your voice and experience how awesome you are!

And it was so

There are hundreds of promises in the bible. Things God promised us as believers of the Lord Jesus Christ. The bible is evidence of Him and He led His believers to pen His words and actions. The promises are in writing. Writing has a sense of permanency as a declaration, a contract, a deed. His promises are for us. His word is binding. He cannot lie. His words have power. Just as He spoke the world into existence in the book of Genesis… “And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so. And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so. And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so…” God spoke His words AND IT WAS SO. He created you in His image and He wrote that the same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead lives inside of you. Speak forth the blessings of God over your life. Just as He spoke and wrote his promises for us… and it was so.

Mother Heather

We have known this dear saint for years. What an honor. She is someone that has a great burden for prayer. It’s bigger than that. God is using her to bring about 24/7 Prayer. This ministry will have at least one person praying for our Pastor, his family and the church every minute of every day. This is definitely ordained by God and came into being with some trials I’m certain. I don’t know if we realize the impact 24/7 will have. Hundreds of pastors fall in this spiritual dessert we call California. Where the d roams because there are no barriers. But that’s changing. That won’t even be a possibility here at New Birth and it is a direct impact of 24/7 prayer. She has actually caused our pastor to survive and thrive. Do we realize that? I pray for her often because I’m certain her struggle is intense. Thank you Lord for Mother Heather and her obedience and persistence to see 24/7 put into place. This is a great example of ONE PERSON making an impact that will eventually affect hundreds of thousands. You can make a difference too. Do what you are called to do no matter the struggle.

You can lead a horse to water

but you can’t make them drink. Yes an old saying but so true today as I try to share with a co-worker and there is resistance. So I did not get offended I simply smiled and stayed in their conversation. I will still be kind to them. Offer advice and love and pray for them. My job is to present the Lord and if they don’t take the awesome offer then I move on and just love them and live by example. They know who I am and what I stand for. God has released me from carrying the burden of making sure they know Him. How great is that? I don’t have to carry the guilt of them not accepting Jesus. God will deal with them and will bring in someone else, if needed, to talk to them. What a great release for me. I am to live and be an example and speak when the opportunity arises. Hallelujah.

This is a new assurance for me. A realization that I’ve got an awesome thing with God whom provides for me and takes care of me, speaks to me, directs my steps and has promised me eternal life. Things I knew but have recently become a confidence in my life. So, I’m offering it to you but if you don’t want it – ok. I’ll tell someone else. I have a confidence in the "product" so to speak. I’m not going to beg you. Kind of like if you were selling a great shoe. You’d present it, market it and people would buy because it’s great. Same thing. It’s like my boss. He’s trying to CONVINCE people to use him as their broker. He's awesome yet his almost begging makes it seem like the service isn’t that good. Relax and be assured in what you have to offer. Walk in confidence and a knowing you are amazing. Watch how people try to attach themselves to your greatness… that really comes from the Lord.

God's Word is written

Key: Write it down. The Word of God is written! That’s how important it is to WRITE IT DOWN. It’s a record of God speaking. It’s your reminder of how to behave. Oh, so He spoke to you today? AWESOME… that’s the instruction that God is feeding you hot off the wire. STOP, get a pen and paper! Write it down! Do you really want to take a chance of missing God? What’s the worst that could happen? Just obey. He will honor your obedience. Are you trying to rationalize what God said? How ridiculous. He sees all, knows all. He knows what’s best for you. Obey. Stop being lazy. Every time we obey and step out of our complacency it makes it easier to do it next time OR do more the next time God calls on us. What is He calling you to? Why are you struggling with Him? He has your best interest in mind. Just obey and He will lead you to where you need to be.

Write it down

So you hear a word from God. You start to act on what He spoke to you. Days go by, you’re doing great. THEN, things start to arise and you begin to second-guess your decision to act on what He spoke to you. Things like this come to your mind… Did God really say that? Was I truly hearing from Him that day? Doubt comes in. Mistake: you listen and converse and agree. KEY: When God speaks to you WRITE IT DOWN so in your time of weakness/temptation/distraction you can be reminded of what He said. Also, write down what brought you to this. Sometimes we get going and forget our purpose. Writing it down will keep you from going backwards. It will keep you from having to start over again. You know you heard from Him. Come on! Stick with what He instructed you to do. End of conversation. Don’t try to rationalize what He said. Don’t talk yourself out of it. Just do it. And when you have trouble following Him READ what you WROTE down so you don’t give up during your journey. Like Jesse Duplantis says, “Doubt your doubt.” It would sound like this… Doubt speaking... did God really say that? You… What if He did say it! I don't want to miss Him. Example: I started a seven-day media and meal fast under God’s direction. Three days into it and I’m hearing things like… you don’t need to not eat at all, you can have one meal, you can take Friday night off for Sushi, one meal won’t hurt, you can watch a little tv, why fast anyway, what’s the point, will someone be healed, what impact will you make anyway. Scary thoughts? Yes. That is why it’s so crucial to WRITE IT DOWN so in your moment of weakness, doubt or fear you can put yourself in remembrance of what you are called to do.

Paul was great

His writings fascinate me. Check this out… In the book of Romans chapter 6 verse 15 it reads, “What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Certainly not! Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?” Translation: what you give into, what you give time to, what you let rule you becomes your ruler and you are in bondage/enslaved to it. The scripture goes on to say, “But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. I speak in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves of uncleanness, and of lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves of righteousness for holiness. For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Translation: God has promised in His word that if you obey Him and let Him be your God, your ruler, you spend time with Him THEN you will be fruitful and have everlasting life.

Your words have power

Yesterday I wrote about how to start your day praising God. Today we’ll cover what comes after praising God. After you give reverence and honor to God upon waking then you begin to speak life over yourself and it could sound something like this… “Lord, your word says that I am blessed and highly favored. You want to prosper me. You want me to have abundant life. I am the head not the tail. I am more than a conqueror. Your Word is alive and active in me. I can do what the bible says I can do. I am the lender not the borrower. When I speak life goes forth healing, delivering and saving.” You could perhaps include words about your personal ministry like… Thank you Lord that I am a gifted teacher bringing new revelation and causing people to come higher in life or my hands and words bring healing. Thanking him for the manifestation of your gifts, etc. Speak life over yourself because your words have power to bring it to fruition.

Start our day

We have to remember that our words have power. They have life. We need to speak life over ourselves daily. But first we should start our day, before our feet hit the floor, praising God. It could sound something like this upon waking every morning… “Almighty God, there is no one like you. No one else has raised from the dead, no one else has your power. No one else created the universe. I know you are the one true real God because I’ve seen your word work and your healing hand touch not only me but others. YOU ARE GOD, THE ONLY GOD. Lord I thank you for another day. I praise you for your mercies that are new every morning. I praise you for your awesome kindness and greatness towards me. Lord help me to be who you want me to be today. Help me to behave and speak what you want today. Help me be a witness of how real and great you are. Thank you God that I am a child of yours and that my name is written in the book of life. That Jesus died on the cross for my sins and that gave me the keys to eternal life, healing and abundant life here on earth. Thank you Lord that your word says you gave me power over the enemy and all principalities. Thank you Lord that you came for the Jews and the Gentiles. Thank you for bestowing your power in my life so I can make a difference and not just live. So that I can walk like one of the apostles from the bible doing the word of God and spreading life.” Just starting your morning this way will give you strength for the day.

Trials

It seems like there’s always something coming against us to keep us down. To keep us from moving into what God has for us. If it’s not this, it’s that, one thing after another trying to keep us from advancing. Then what happens is we get tired and we give into fleshy things. Like too much TV because we can get lost in it. For thirty minutes or one hour or more – yikes, we can forget our reality and live someone else’s. This should not be. When the trials come we should be going to the Lord in prayer but we are so tired from the struggle we just “check-out” so to speak. Lord help us be strong and good stewards in the trials of life. Enough trials already!

Reminder to choose

When a bad situation presents itself in our day sometimes we are so quick to react. We take the wrong road of being angry or upset. We need to stop a minute and say, “Ok, I have a choice here. I can CHOOSE to be upset about this and behave ungodly or I can CHOOSE not to let this affect me. I can CHOOSE to remain kind to the person who upset me. I can CHOOSE to be the same all the time and not be moody. I can CHOOSE to be godly. It is my CHOICE.” Then after you choose to be godly watch how God blesses you. This is an act of obedience in connection with God’s word and you will be honored because of your obedience to God to walk in love with all mankind.

Year of the double door

It was prophesied this is the “year of the double door”. Meaning the things you are believing for will come through the double doors into your life. Well, my husband and I are complete opposites, (this makes the marriage spicey) so… to get a different take on this prophesy I asked him, “What is keeping the stuff from getting to the people of God?” He said, “There’s so much trying to come through the doors and your pushing on the door and blocking all of it and you just need to let the doors fall open and you would receive. It's like when you walk up to a door and you push on it and it actually says, on the door, PULL so you have to step back and PULL to get in to the stuff." I love him. His thinking is so fresh.

Manifestation of blessings

I woke up yesterday morning praying for the church members that God would manifest His blessings in their lives. Then at church last night Pastor Carl Smith of New Birth Church mentioned how someone that was not a member of our church was mailing in his tithe regularly. This man attended New Birth once, he is not a believer of the Lord Jesus Christ but he grasped the concept of sowing and reaping and believes in that. This man is now living blessed because of his giving to the work of the Lord. The testimony was amazing however this caused me to grieve because how many are sitting in the pews, believers, members and yet not receiving the blessings of God? You have to ask WHY? Why are some still looking for jobs? Why are some still not whole in their minds, bodies and finances as God has proclaimed? If we’re going up in a going down world and God has promised prosperity what is stopping the believers from receiving? Why did this man get it? Could it be that he holds no doubt? Or perhaps he has no ought towards anyone and he walks in love towards all? Could it be that he EXPECTS to receive? What other stipulations in the bible could be keeping the believers from receiving? Creflo was on TV last night and said, “you have to believe something in your heart and have ‘heart-faith’” meaning not just saying yes amen the Lord wants me to be blessed but believe it in your heart. I would call it a knowing. You know that you know God wants to bless you and then wait on it. Live right, live with expectancy.

Dr. Samuel Chand

We had a guest speaker last night at church Dr. Samuel Chand. He’s a minister from India with a gift of bringing healing, hope and insight to the people of God. We laughed so much we were almost in tears. Laughter doeth good like a medicine the bible says and Dr. Chand is being used by God this way. As he shed light on the book of Exodus chapter 3 verse 8 one of the things he said was, God is leaning over the edge of heaven looking at us saying “do you want supersize?” Our answer should be yes. At McDonalds for a little extra money you can supersize your drink, fries, your meal. God is saying for a little more prayer, a little more reading your bible, a little more spending time in God’s presence and HE will supersize you for your obedience. So that ministry your wanting… supersized. That job your after… supersized. The favor you need in your life… supersize. That business you want to start or need help with… supersized. God is awesome to deliver when we are obedient to His call.

Dr. Chand also brought hope and insight to the people speaking on the land of milk and honey. Milk comes from cows and cows also produce “stuff”. Honey comes from bees and they have sting. To get to your land of milk and honey (wherever you are headed) you will have to deal with some stuff and sting in life but know this the milk and honey is around the corner. If your dealing with some stuff know that the cow is nearby/the reward is near and this will give you hope to go on to your land of milk and honey. Thank you Dr. Chand for living the call on your life to serve the people of God.

Obedience

Obedience… Its amazing how it is actually much larger than we see. It appears to us as one tiny little act of obedience. We don’t give the act of obedience the consideration and thought we should for a given situation and because of personal preferences or desires we put aside our obedience and do what WE want. Not realizing the small act of obedience was connected to larger things. Our obedience can move God, it can change the future for an entire generation. (see proof in previous blog about Noah) Example: You have kids and you choose to drink or smoke and know your act of obedience to quit these is what God wants from you. Instead of doing this required thing you say, “well other people do it and they are fine or its not going to keep me from heaven.” So to keep yourself “right” you do it when the kids aren’t around so you think you are protecting them. The smell is still on you and they pick that up as “familiar”. It sets in their minds and memories. Familiarity can sometimes be a bad thing. Do you see how this can affect future generations? Also, if you weren’t smoking or drinking this time would be spent toward something more productive. How you spend your time is crucial. Every act we perform is seeds for the next generation. Whether anyone sees your obedience/disobedience or not. It’s not that your just being obedient to what God asked of you its about how God will use your obedience, how you are honoring His request and how this will change generations and take them higher to a greater revelation and greater living.

Noah

Do you know the story of Noah? God spoke to Noah and said “the earth is filled with a violent people and I will destroy it… but I have seen that you are righteous before me”. So God made a covenant with Noah and instructed Noah to build an ark and place his wife, sons, son’s wife’s and of every creature (male and female to keep the species alive) into the ark. The great flood came and the waters lifted above the earth and covered the mountains. All things on the earth died. Only Noah and those who were with him in the ark remained alive. (Key: those who were with Noah were saved = who you connect with IS important). When the earth had dried God spoke to Noah, saying, “Go out of the ark.” Noah did an amazing thing here, he built an altar to the Lord. An altar of thanksgiving. The bible says “And the LORD smelled the burnt offering, it was a soothing aroma to Him. Then the LORD said in His heart, “I will never again curse the ground for man’s sake, although the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth; nor will I again destroy every living thing as I have done.” So ONE MAN (Noah) behaving righteous and building an alter to God that brought a pleasing aroma to God, caused God to make an oath, a promise to all future generations (that’s you, me, your children, their children etc.). And this is the promise… “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.” The key here is seedtime and harvest. God promises if you sow you shall reap. What are you sowing into the work of God? What ever you sow, you WILL reap and you know that when you sow, you don't just reap what you've sowed your reap MORE! Also, another key is ONE MAN being obedient caused a blessing for all generations. You, as one man, can cause God to bless your household by your obedience and righteous living. Do not be fooled thinking its okay to live below what you should. Do not be lulled saying everyone else lives this way. You know in your righteous heart what is the right way to live. God is watching and the bible says He searches for someone to bless. Be blessed.

He wants everything

I arrived at praise and worship practice last week and they had already started praying. There was a cry in the voices of the people praying. There was a pleading sound. Everyone was seeking God’s voice. I heard Him say to me… yield. So I lay prostrate on the floor and began to weep. I asked God, “What do you want from us?” and He said, “Everything.” I was still. Then He said, “ALL.” I kept still. Trying to determine what of my life He wanted. Everything and All means something different to each of us. To some it means stop drinking, to others it means show up at prayer meetings, to others it means fast. However, each of these is God saying be yielded to His voice, obedient to Him, submissive to His leading. And, each of these brings about the same result… He wants you closer to Him. He’s calling you higher and wants you to be ready. The battle is much easier if the warrior is prepared and not carrying any baggage/bondage from their past. Give it all. If you can’t give all, start with something and increase it daily or weekly.

The Crosswalk

As I was driving I saw a lady walking in the crosswalk. She was dressed in old tennis shoes, baggy khaki’s, a tee shirt and a x-large men’s dress shirt that was hanging off her right shoulder. Her hair looked dirty and she was carrying an empty plastic cup. A man crossed her path in the crosswalk and she made several attempts at saying hello and trying to engage him in eye contact and conversation. I began to wonder what type of person carries on this way? Then I realized… we are all in this position. She has only the experiences she’s been exposed to and this puts her where she is. Her training and schooling is most likely another factor in her behavior. Well, is our training or lack of experience with God leaving us in the crosswalk? Are we being schooled by the Holy Spirit to excel in life? Are we open to the leading of what God has for us? Are we open to new experiences in worship, praise and service to Him? Selah.

Expectation at an extreme level

So you are asked to speak in China. The people there are hanging in the windows to hear your words. They have traveled days to be at this church service. They are so hungry for the Word. The altar call is given and hundreds come forth. Some with sicknesses even body parts missing. Miracles happen. You get home and wonder why this doesn’t happen in America. Is it possible that our faith is demanded on more when we see China’s great need? Is it possible we have more empathy for them? Is it possible that we have greater expectation and we pull on the Lord more for them? Are we putting a greater demand on the annointing there than here? If we saw our congregation with the same compassion would we see great miracles also? The people here do have trials but they are of a different sort. The battles in America are mostly in the mind where it is not seen. I think these are the most dangerous because your mind can have thoughts that hinder you from doing anything, even receiving Christ. I’m going to work on compassion going forward and have an understanding that everyone has a great battle whether I can SEE it or not. This will put my expectation at an extreme level and hopefully bring extreme miracles.

Power of music

I always see people with their headphones on plugged into their iPods while walking, riding or working. Sometimes their music is turned up so loud I can hear it. Some of their faces look like they are in a trance. Some look like they want to kill someone, very angry. I can’t help but think of the possible damage they are doing to their minds. Music is a powerful medium. It has the power to change your life. Who will have the voice of God in their song to be able to reverse the damage they are doing? Who will have God's annointing and power in their voice to break the bondage? Who’s song/voice will set these captives free? We should pray… Lord, let it be me.

Don’t give up

I know times are challenging right now. I know bills are coming in faster than you can pay them. I know there seems to be a heaviness because of the economy and the words/news that is filling the atmosphere. Stop… use your words to change your atmostphere. Your tongue has the power of life and death. Question for you… you’ve come this far and your giving up NOW? You’ve dealt with all kinds of demons, sicknesses, pains, people leaving you, trials, deaths, bills, divorces, jail, drugs, alcohol and your giving up NOW? STOP, before you contemplate quitting again, think on these things… The same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead is in you. Jesus said you would do greater things than what He did! Your tongue has power. You’ve come through other trials – why not this one? It really doesn’t matter what the trial is as long as you have Jesus you will survive. Don’t take your focus off Him.

Pray God will use them

I was praying for a singer, not my favorite, but I reminded myself that it’s not about her or me its about the people getting what they need released from heaven. As I was praying I went into praying in tongues so that Gods will would manifest and my thoughts would not dominate my prayers. As I prayed for her my tongue was speaking that she would be filled with the presence of God that He would manifest in her, no flesh, and that people would feel the presence of God. Let’s be honest, it’s hard to pray God uses someone else the way you want to be used. But God has always said to me, give it, give the blessing, pray the prayer because I have greater and more for you. I will fill you up again, there’s more that will flow from you. As I prayed I felt my stomach area/body jerk. This has never happened to me before… that jerking that you see some saints do. As God brought forth a confirmation a knowing saying to me… you pray for her like you pray for yourself, she’s not the same as you, your not giving away anything, I’ve still called you to do what you are to do.

What are you delivering to your people

I was listening to the CD from Bishop Long (love song #2 "Give God Something"). Anyway, I realized that sometimes people put out songs, books and sermons because they feel that's what the people WANT. However, that is not what they need from God. When we give the people what we think or know they want, this is not always best for them. Sure they will benefit but how much more would they benefit from a word from God giving them direction encouragement peace hope deliverance healing. Example 1... So your preaching and you HEAR the Lord telling you what to say - awesome. You deliver that word and manifestation of His glory shows up. Example 2... Your preaching and you see this person or that person and words come to you so you speak that forth. I believe Example 2 is the prophetic coming to your mind and not the word for the hour of the sermon (for the masses). Its so important for us to be in tune with God's voice while speaking so we don't deliver JUST what people need but what God wants for them. I guess this is why its so important to have notes or bullet points for sermons so you can stay on track with what God wanted you to deliver. Example 3... your speaking and words, visions, images are flying in at you, items like houses and ministries are dropping from heaven and God is redirecting your sermon and you are obedient to His moving. Awesome God, thank you for leading us, every step and every word.

Delight yourself in the Lord

Last nights service at New Birth Pittsburg California was so powerful. I came home and couldn’t get ahold of myself. Pastor Carl Smith said so many powerful biblical truths we had to get the CD. Its one of those you have to keep hearing until you get it in your spirit so you can grasp every bit of wisdom and be where God wants you spiritually, physically and mentally. If you are no where near Pittsburg get the CD online at www.newbirthcal.org or call the church (925) 439-8989. Get it and grow.

Dream 7-12-09

I woke up at 5am to get ready for church and was reminded of the dream I had during my sleep. I thanked God for bringing it to my remembrance. There were two storms hitting a large mass of water. Each had a funnel coming down to the water. The “tornado” (I’ll call it) on the right was smaller and had a smaller effect on the water causing ripples. The “tornado” in the exact middle of the water was much larger and its billow from the sky appeared huge, powerful and scary. As the middle tornado hit the water it was causing a tidal wave. As it got closer the waves got larger and larger. We were floating on a little piece of driftwood. The only way to minimize the effect was to stay as far left as possible in hopes that we could survive. As the tornado got closer and waves larger, we just slid by the left side and barely felt anything. It was like a small little speed bump. So I get to church and Bishop Gary Hawkins was a guest at www.newbirthcal.org and he says “You’re in it but it won’t affect you” God is so amazing. I don’t know how but I know that I know He will make a way for your and my situations!!!

Suicide and greed thoughts

Have you ever had a thought of suicide or greed come over you? Well, when I drive on the freeway to Pittsburg I feel this. Its at the top of the hill near Bay Point. I can't help but think it is the spirit of God saying "this is the spirit operating here." When I drive through Alamo and Danville a strange feeling comes again. This one is rushed, competitive, anger, power and a money greed. I almost couldn't drive. I had to stop and get ahold of myself and figure out what these feelings were. At first I couldn't identify them. Why am I feeling like this? It was sickening. I prayed and thanked God for His wisdom and protection over me as He revealed the spirit. I connect this to a Pastor being assigned a region and how he must first identify the strongholds of his area so he can address them. Then he can take authority over them by the power vested in him. My God, the burden a Pastor must deal with. Pray for your Pastors.

Are you reading this?

Is anyone reading this blog? Anyone getting anything? Please comment by clicking on word in pink BELOW "comments". I'd really appreciate it. Thanks so much!

What Jesus did

In the midst of the multitudes, He withdrew to pray. He was in submission. He was inquiring of the father and following that direction. We need to die to our own reasoning and pressuring. Always doing what pleases the Father – not people.

Already prepared

Sometimes you just need to hear the words “you can make it” or as it was for me yesterday my Pastor said, “God ALREADY prepared you for the things you are and will go through in life.” This had such great impact on me. I sat there with tears streaming down my face. Kind of like the first time I heard this annointed man speak. I welcomed the tears as I didn’t want to miss anything God had for me. I completely ignored the people around me. Sometimes your fellow Christians are the toughest crowd! How sad. Anyway… “You have the ability to overcome everything that comes against you. God already prepared you for this.” As I sat there, giving the Holy Spirit free reign to do and say what He wanted in me, I had a knowing that no matter what, tho He slay me, yet, yes, yes, I will trust Him.

I was right - so there!

We arrived at the beach in Lake Tahoe to watch the fireworks. As the time got closer people were scrambling around for a spot on the beach. One young couple sat together on their blanket near us. Then a family of six came in and put themselves in this tiny little square next to them. The husband who led this group chose this spot and I thought – its as though he has blinders on – there are several other spots available - what kind of leader is that? The young couple were very put-out by this. They could have moved to their left and had plenty of room. I looked over to the right and noticed a huge spot enough for eight. The young couple could have moved there also to accommodate this mans lack of vision and preparation. Instead the young couple didn’t budge. You could feel their tension and anger. They really ruined their own evening by letting this obstacle push on them and steal their peace. I wondered how often we do this? Do we get so caught up in the fight that we lose the thing we are going after? Do we get so stuck on being right that we can’t forgive an offense cuz we’re right, we were here first. Do we have trouble accommodating others because we think they should have thought of this ahead of time? Do we base our forgiveness to others on “well, I was right, you were wrong, soooo” Help us Lord.

Why do you stay?

Why is it that we can see a way out of our situation but we stay where we are? We know that moving forward leads to victory but fear of this new unknown path keeps us from stepping out. Let’s break it down. What is the fear? Is it fear of being hurt again? Yes? Ok, so lets set a path in our mind for how we will deal with that and how we will recognize it so we can step out of the line of fire. Is it pride? Yes? We know that pride is what brought the d down so we must push past our pride at whatever the cost. Why stay where you know there is no victory? Ok, here it is… part of this I believe is not trusting God – ouch you say? I know it is painful. But can we step out and trust God to give us wisdom and discernment and covering during our stepping out? Yes. Just do it and your part is pray, let the Lord speak to you, fast with a friend and let God have his way. Don’t stay there.

The box vision

Years ago when we were at a church where the music pastor was not behaving right, I had vision I guess you would call it. One night at rehearsal he said, “Let’s bow our heads and pray that…” and that’s all I heard. A vision appeared in my head of me walking and there was a box around me, it was large and clear. There was plenty of clearance for me to move. As I walked the box moved with me, not touching me, just around me, as a covering. Then rocks and pebbles started coming toward me, lots of them, and they hit the box and bounced off! It was a most amazing thing. I believe God was showing me He was protecting me while we were in that place being obedient to the call for that season. He’s so awesome.

Sunday's Sermon

Some great highlights from yesterday’s sermon by Pastor Carl Smith www.newbirthcal.org. “The Valley is your place of decision and is not to become your hangout. God calls you to high places and this puts you in the valley. The valley is the testing time. The teacher/God never speaks during the test.” Now we can understand why when we are in a trial we feel alone. I guess God is waiting for us to make the right decision based on what He has already taught us.

James - a great friend

James is one of those books that’s straight up and very convicting. I like this writing – tells it like it is. Don’t sugar coat it for me. Tell me. I have tons of friends that are “yes” people. Oh, that looks great, oh buy it you deserve it, oh its ok if you forgot your tithe God forgives, oh go ahead and do that girl its ok. What!? We should have friends that will tell you the truth even if they think it will hurt you. Friends that will sacrifice the friendship by telling you the truth (in love and in line with Gods word) because they want the best for you. Friends that are causing you to grow physically, spiritually, and mentally. I once gave my closest friend free reign in my life to speak forth to me and told her I would receive from her anything she had for me. Nothing ever came forth and that made me very sad. I had to ask myself, am I so overbearing that she is afraid to tell me, does she not feel qualified, or what could it be? All I know is the friendship shouldn’t be more important than each others growth. We shouldn’t be laughing and carrying on about things that we are both bound by. We need to receive from each other without anger. Let’s cultivate friendships not out of dependency but out of desire to make one another better. Is there a James in the house?

Who's waiting on who?

Pastor Carl Smith www.newbirthcal.org said something last night that I say all the time. We’re not waiting on God, He’s waiting on us! Come on. Why would He want you in that wheelchair? Countless people have told you they see you walking. Countless prophecies. Why would He want you dealing with that cancer? An anointed man of God even came to the church and spoke on how unforgiveness is keeping you from your healing. Come on! Who’s waiting on who? Put pride aside and whatever else you need to lay down, arise, receive your healing and get on with your life fulfilling your call! He's waiting on you.

Fear Can Stop Destiny?

I’ve been chatting with a friend who has a call on her life and God is guiding her ever so gently to her destiny. However, in the midst of His guiding she is fearful of stepping out and answering the call. I know hundreds of people who would LOVE to be in her shoes right now, where God is taking you to the next level and you see your dreams coming to fruition and you have confirmation of what God said about you - wow. It’s so sad to me how much power fear has. Or perhaps I should say how much power we give fear. Ask yourself what exactly am I afraid of? Identify what it is – exactly. Then you’ll know what you’re dealing with. Could be pride, could be fear of the unknown… Fear is not of God so right there you KNOW that this is an attack from the enemy trying to keep you from your destiny. What do you do when attacked by the enemy for any other issue? You pray, fast, stand, pray in tongues and advance forward and take ground from the enemy. Press on and don’t let fear keep you from your destiny.

In the wait

So you have a calling on your life. Now what? Do you feel as though God is preparing you (like that Daryl Coley song?) How do you go from this level to the next level? Fast, pray, make sure you are connected to the right church/pastor, but still nothing happens? Feel like you’ve been in this place before? I think the better question is… what are we not getting that He is trying to teach us? OR, if you’ve done all you can do and you’re still in the wait then the rest of the song goes like this… He's preparing me for something I cannot handle right now; He's making me ready just because He cares, He's preparing me to carry out the next matter in my life, He's arranging me, rearranging me. He's preparing me because He cares for me. He is raising me. He's maturing me. We should say, “Lord have your way.”

Holy Convocation

Years ago we had a Pastor who called the leaders to a “Holy Convocation”. We stayed locked in the sanctuary for the entire day. This was an incredible time for me. God brought a word through me. I remember how God moved in me and how I felt so amazed by His awesomeness. We were fasting, praying and all of us where in different parts of the sanctuary seeking God. The Pastor left the mic open for those that had a word of direction or knowledge. The power of God was very heavy. I believe this type of scene can be manifest in our homes. As a family set aside a day of lock down. Or perhaps set a week of fasting for the family and on the last day have lock down and share, pray and speak forth. Watch God reveal your future, give you direction and give you strength for your journey.

Healed by one word

Years ago, out of the blue, my body started manifesting signs of a migraine. My eyesight started to disappear and my friend Cherie rushed me from work to the doctor. He gave me meds. A couple years after that it happened to me again. This time I was at home getting ready for bed. My eyesight started to disappear again! I began to panic as I stumbled to the bed to wake my husband. I could not wake him! MORE panic set. Then as my eyesight just went to black I fell to my knees and said one word, I called on one person… “Jesus” and in that instant my sight was restored and all manifestations were gone! THEN, on last Wednesday morning I was getting ready for work and all of a sudden I started having signs of this again. I began praying in tongues and took mental note of my mind. Thoughts were coming into my mind of the manifestation. Like… ok, that happened and now this will happen and then that will happen and I said out load NO, and then another thought came of doubt and I said NO and began speaking in tongues out loud. It was amazing to me how the thoughts/mind is connected to our healing. The bible says take every thought captive. This is crucial if you are believing God for a healing or really anything at all.

Seeing through the window

I often tell people, when they are in a trial, to see past it. Meaning picture yourself on the other side of this thing that has you bound. Start to visualize what life is like after the trial is over. See yourself healed. What does that look like? You would be able to … Or see yourself without hurt and living fully. What does that look like? Start to make plans in your mind of what will take place when the trial is over. This is building your faith in God to believe He will do what He says He will do. This is giving you hope. Hope will make the trial bearable. Stand at the window of your life and see through to the other side. Look with expectation and create a vision of your future.

Chasing after what?

So you desire a house, a car, finances, stuff, you want stuff. You’re chasing after His blessings. However, you realize during the chase that you need Him. You begin to put those pursuits aside and set your mind on Him. Wake up praising Him. Go about your day being a servant. You tithe regularly, you give offerings, you participate in the building campaign. You become a good steward. You volunteer at the church serving the people of God. The most remarkable thing happens in the journey you discover He is all you need – how awesome is that! That stuff is not even a thought. Then, God sees you can be trusted and He wants to bless His child. There doesn’t need to be a struggle in the blessings. Focus on Him.

Not about me

I’ve always been able to go to battle for someone else. If someone else needed prayer and fasting I could do it. If someone else was trying to get a discount on something I could be the master negotiator. If someone else needed to make a phone call, to get favor and their point across I could do it for them. However, when it comes to my stuff or getting what I wanted I couldn’t always do it. I would feel sorry for the person I was trying to get the deal from or I would think, ah, it’s not that big a deal if I don’t have that. I always want something for someone else soooo bad. I so badly want them to get their breakthrough or healing. Some identify this as low self-esteem, some say weakness towards others, some say giver. What about it’s in my nature to be a servant? To ensure other people’s breakthrough? For me it’s usually easier to do something for some else’s benefit. So I’m certain once again of God’s calling on me. Sometimes I have to be reminded God chose the right person because ministry is not about me.

Live in the now

Sometimes we get so busy with life, trying to make it, dealing with this problem and that one. Time seems to be flying by. Another week gone. Yet if we look back at that week we will see several opportunities where God intervened on our behalf. Where God carried us. Where God healed us, sustained us, gave us the right words to say to a co-worker. However, at the end of the week you feel dissatisfied. Why? It was an awesome week. I think its because we don’t’ live in the now. I have a habit, being a "planner", to always be looking ahead and sometimes I miss enjoying my now. Enjoy your now.

Made in His image

Its so amazing to look at yourself and see “Oh, I have my mothers hands, my dads feet or I say that like my mom does” etc. Also be reminded we were made in the image of God. Jesus Christ was the living example. What traits of God do you have? What things have you yet to tap into? God, in all His greatness, made you like Him. Search out the great things He placed in you. Then begin to speak forth in prayer these things. Lord, thank you for the gift of creativity, thank you for the gift of song, the gift of healing, etc. Speak these things aloud and fulfill your destiny.

No weapon

No weapon formed against me shall prosper. This is a great promise to you from God. It means no matter what comes against you it won’t work. That thing coming against you won’t succeed in hurting you, taking your joy, tearing you down or stealing from you. The weapon being used won’t affect you. How awesome. God has promised that whatever weapons come nigh you it won’t harm you. Ahhhhhhhhh hallelujah. That depression that was assigned to you, no, that sickness, no, that cancer, no, the economy, no! Instead YOU shall prosper not the thing sent to destroy you! Don’t get distracted with the issue in front of you. We have our focus on the wrong thing. We give the d too much credit. (I call him d, you know who I mean, he doesn’t deserve a name except that we can address him to tell him to get outta town.)

Overcome things easily (part two)

To overcome stuff easily you must first be in a place where the leaders are flowing from God’s direction. Secondly, you must submit to the authority of these people. They will bring you words of direction, encouragement, confirmation, overcoming strategies, battle instructions, etc. Without being under these people or submitting to their leadership you actually make things harder on yourself. You are keeping yourself from your destiny. Your journey will be awesome, perhaps challenging, but so rewarding when attending this type of church. You can find it at New Birth California. www.newbirthcal.org

Overcome things... easily

When you have an understanding of the issue it sheds light on the situation. You’ll begin to understand and think, “Okay this is happening because of that. I see, now I can deal with this not only because I know what caused it but because I understand what it will lead to.” This topic stems from a word that came from Minister Dasha saying that we would encounter things at our jobs that we needed to overcome. The next morning I was hit with some unbearable, or so I thought, stuff at work. Then I remembered her words and it all made sense. She said we need to overcome issues during the week so we can take the congregation to overcoming on Sunday and Wednesday. As I sat at my desk overwhelmed with this obnoxious manifestation I was reminded that this was before me because of the victory ahead. So I began to rejoice. I smiled and did my job with joy. It was so amazing how easy it was and how quickly God intervened when I lined up with His word. www.eldamolive.com

Complain not.

If you are thinking you’re alone, God has forgotten you, or perhaps how did this mess come upon you? Then I’m begging you – complain not. Moses being obedient led the people through the desert. The bible says God provided manna from heaven as food for them. He even provided drink for their thirst AND He led them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go. All the while they continued to be dissatisfied, sinning, complaining. Don’t live this way. See each obstacle as a learning process and/or God purifying you for service. You could continue on your way complaining - God is ever merciful and keeps his covenant with you. You will only hurt yourself. Not rising to your full potential. He is still awesome and merciful no matter your path and decisions in life. Also, He always offers you a chance to turn it around.

You can do miracles

Jesus said we (the believers of Jesus) would do greater things than He did. While He walked the earth as a human being, created in the image of God, He did miracles. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, raised the dead, nothing was impossible. Yet in the book of John 14:12-15 He says WE would do greater things than what He did! These are the stipulations… if we believe in Him, if we ask things praying “in the name of Jesus,” if we ask things for the purpose of glorifying Almighty God and not ourselves, if we love Him and if we keep His commandments. Sounds simple right? Five little things and yet the first one… believe in Him can cause us to stumble because of lack of faith. Lord help us!

Rising up greater

For years I’ve been saying, “As the enemy comes stronger and stronger against us the Spirit of God will be rising up greater and greater in us. We will be seeing and performing miracles, wonders and signs.” However, it seems as though this is slow to manifest. It must be us. Seems like the Body of Christ/the believers, are so weak. God Almighty is full of power and greatness and creativity and He created us in His image and said we could tread on serpents and scorpions and nothing shall by any means harm us. He said that the spirits are subject unto us. (Luke 10:19) We have power over darkness, evils, temptations, and manifestations of the devil. What are we doing wrong? Is it our lack of belief/faith, our lack of discipline to fast, our lack of prayer? Lord help us to walk in your power that you said was available to us. Help us hear your voice loud and clear so we can be lead by you and draw people to you.

What keeps us going?

Here’s my take on it… We come to church on Sunday and Wednesday and it’s similar to getting a burst of energy, strength, wisdom and power. Not just because you assembled with the saints but you heard the word of God spoken. You even spoke the word of God as Pastor had you read scriptures with him (brilliant to get you in the word) and you might have even spoke in tongues and released and gained power. You probably witnessed miracles at the altar and received a prayerful hug from another believer. How could you not leave stronger? Please for your sake, for your life, get to church when church is happening its crucial, not just to your development but to your life and gaining strength for the battle.

KNOW THAT YOU KNOW

If you know, that you know, that you know, then why not take steps toward making it happen? Why not put things in order in your life for the coming of the thing YOU KNOW? Why not be journaling what you know so when it manifests you can refer back to your notes for strength, insight and putting yourself in remembrance? Why not be expecting the thing YOU KNOW to manifest? Why not be speaking it aloud in your private prayer time? Why not be ready so when your time comes you can walk right into your destiny and fulfill the mandate on your life? YOU KNOW.

Hang on and pray

New Years Eve God said to me “this will be a year of great loss and great gain.” I believe this is not just for me but for the people. We should prepare for a storm and KNOW THIS… God will carry you through if you stay with Him, and then, you will have great gain. Don’t think just material things, think souls, restoration of marriages and relationships, children reconciled to their parents, kids coming out of destructive situations, addictions being broken, manifestations of healing and miracles, people fulfilling their calling, new beginnings for people and businesses, a powerful move of God in the earth. Let’s stay in prayer for our futures.

Key… for those seeking their calling

The right connection can bring your destiny to fruition. If you are attending a church where the pastor is not plugged into the spirit of the one and holy God through Jesus Christ – this will affect you. The further along your pastor is the more you will benefit. Do you see how crucial this is? Do you feel you have a gift of teaching but it fails to manifest? Or perhaps a gift of preaching but you fail to walk in your anointing? A pastor with an apostolic anointing can activate gifts in his people/congregation. If you are not being challenged or having new gifts arise in you or you don’t have greater revelation of the spirit of God then for your sake, move on. Fulfill your destiny at www.newbirthcal.org.

Keep me Lord because I want to be kept

A prayer our Pastor/Apostle/Prophet/teacher/mentor Carl Smith, New Birth California, prays. More about this awesome church at www.newbirthcal.org. I found myself praying “keep me Lord because I want to be kept” this morning, fervently. It had special meaning this morning as I thought, Lord, there are trials and devastation and during those I may be hurt or act stupid and Lord PLEASE keep me because I do want to be kept. Help me behave right in a storm. Help me keep my eyes on you when the trial comes. Help me pray instead of complain. Help me go to YOU for my encouragement and help. Keep me Lord because I DO want to be kept.

Prophecy

Have you ever received a prophecy or word of knowledge you DIDN’T want? There are so many questions this can raise in your head. God was that you? Is that really what you want to do? Why? Why me? Why now? When will this happen? How will I go through this?

Also, with that word came more words from God saying He will never leave you nor forsake you. He said during the trial you won’t even have to ask He will be there for you. He said restoration follows quickly and new beginnings. What an awesome God we serve!

Have you ever heard God… talking to someone else?

Watch for my book titled “The Prophecy” coming soon.

Pastors, do you want a multi-cultural congregation?

Then you can’t tell jokes or give analogies that only your race will understand. If your congregation is Chinese then jokes and references to Beijing won’t make sense to non-Chinese. They will feel disconnected and not want to attend your church. You might as well speak Mandarin. If your congregation is African-American there are some things other cultures won’t get. They will also feel like “we don’t fit in here” and “we feel stupid” or “what did he say, why is everyone else laughing”. Really, love on and joke with your people off-line, one-on-one, that’s more personal and real anyway. Then that person will feel a connection with you personally. Also, if you are Japanese but you are able to be like and joke with the Chinese then joke with them in their cultural way off-line – that will connect you to them. Also, you must train your leadership (ushers, greeters, elders, ministers, musicians, teachers, your biological family and extended family - ouch, etc.) to be unbiased toward ANY race. What’s at the top will flow to the people. If there’s a problem trying to grow your congregation multi-culturally then look at the top. Prejudice is ugly and painful.

Push

There are opportunities that arise and in the journey through it, during the completion of that opportunity, there are obstacles. At this point we usually fall back and say, is this necessary? Do I really need to do this? We question the very reason we pursued the opportunity in the first place. Key… if we push through this obstacle or pain we could be on to a great success. When these obstacles arise, put yourself in remembrance of WHY you started to pursue, then ENVISION the opportunity in its full completion. Seeing past the trial will help you complete the goal.

Key to leaders, husbands, parents, teachers…

If you, as the leader, do not have drive then your people won’t. You need ambition, creativity and a vision. You should always be looking forward. Lack of drive causes your wife to sit on the couch with you, lack of drive causes your kids to do as you do. Is that really what we want? To teach and lead people into apathy? Lord help us. We should be striving to better ourselves in our gifts, in our mental abilities and physical abilities. Our prayer should be Lord help me to lead with your ideas, strength and with passion. Enable me to help people, grant me gifts of wisdom healing and allow your words of life to flow through me and bring change and growth in people so they can fulfil their destiny. In Jesus name, amen.

Key for temptation

The needs we have, the addictions, the temptations can all be overcome by running to Jesus. What? Break it down you say? If you set your focus on HIM, or you break out in a song or journal HIS goodness every time the addiction, temptation etc. comes to you before you realized it the moment of your need/temptation has passed and you are over the thing already! Keep doing this exercise over and over when the “thing” appears and before you know it you will have created a new habit – a godly one! You will say that does not tempt me thank you Lord. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NKJV) No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

Usher in God's works...

The people of God need to rise up and start speaking the Word of God into the atmosphere. The enemy has doomsayers, there should be a radio/newsstation and newspapers of Godsayers and prophetic words going forth on behalf of the Lords people and the Lords work. Perhaps a newspaper or station you could turn to for the good news, testimonies, prophetic utterances and life words spoken by anointed leaders. Perhaps even a series of radio shows that are acted out by voices of anointed speakers and dramatics exampling the future outcomes of difficult circumstances. I believe Dr. Ed Dufresne has a newspaper they release of testimonies - awesome! There needs to be more to usher in God's works.

One word away... from greatness

The New Birth California Praise Team is practicing a song and here are some of the lyrics… One word away, one word away, the power of life and death is in what you say… We know this to be true however in a trial we don’t activate the ‘power of our tongue.’ We must, even now, begin to speak, out loud, how you believe God will turn your situation around. It could sound something like this… Lord, as the bank says foreclosure I know you say you are making a way out for us, as my job changes you are preparing someone to hire me, Lord as my life is entering great changes I know you have my best interest in mind and you are preparing even now my future successes. I look, not with fear, but with GREAT expectation for the things you have in store for me. I know that every trial is preparing me for a greater work for your service. I get excited just talking about it because I know what you’ve done for my brothers and sisters Paul, David, Ester, etc. I’m excited to see how you will turn things around and use me!

Be blessed and keep your mind and mouth in line with what GOD says!