Great Expectations

So very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the kingdom in these challenging times. God is still faithful, He is Good and His mercy endures forever. As the new year '2010' approaches, we can look forward, with great expectation for an overflow of blessings and favor to invade the atmosphere. (I have been young, now I am old, yet have I not seen the [uncompromisingly] righteous forsaken, or their seed begging bread. Ps. 37:25)

Moving Forward

In these challenging times, we are called to advance and build the kingdom; maintaining the truth that holy and righteous living are essential for shining light amid the darkness. Under the impetus of the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to demonstrate love, peace and joy throughout the earth. By surrendering to the will of God we can become bearers of good fruit so that an ongoing transformation of godly character can be birthed.

Life's Journey

Life is a journey that involves many seasons of adversities, however, if you can believe that God is behind the scenes orchestrating every event along the way, the trip can be very meaningful and enjoyable. Out of every painful situation or problem, something wonderful and new can be birthed, giving all praise and glory to God. This journey is one of faith, in which the details are visible only to the one called and not to anyone else. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing where he was going. (Hebrews 11:8)

Embracing a New Wine Anointing

In this season of so much turmoil, unrest, problems, conflicts and so on, a new wine anointing is being poured out from chosen vessels that have been prepared for such a time as this. Just like choice grapes that have to be prepared before releasing wine, faithful disciples have to endure seasons of stomping, bruising, broken-ness in order for a new wine anointing to flow. The glory of God is being revealed through those who can endure hardness as a good soldier of Christ.
For our light, momentary affliction (this slight distress of the passing hour) is ever more and more abundantly preparing and producing and achieving for us an everlasting weight of glory [beyond all measure, excessively surpassing all comparisons and all calculations, a vast and transcendent glory and blessedness never to cease!]. (2 Cor. 4:17)

Glory in Suffering

On the way to your ‘there place’ of promised inheritance, very often you can remain stuck in the ‘messy middle’ a very long time, trying to get a handle on overwhelming circumstances. The length of stay in this uncomfortable and painful state, to a great extent, depends upon the willingness to obey God; choose to do whatever it takes for moving forward into a new place. Trials and tests help to reveal the glory of Christ in your life.
It is critical however to press through storms, sickness, pain, struggle, tight or narrow places in order to reach the other side.
So that no mortal man should [have pretense for glorying and] boast in the presence of God.
So then, as it is written, let him who boasts and proudly rejoices and glories, boast and proudly rejoice and glory in the Lord.
(1 Cor. 1:29, 31)

All About the Kingdom

The Kingdom of God is now—it is here! Some may like position, but the Kingdom is not about position. It's not about how anointed you are, how great you are, what your name is, or whether or not your ministry is large or small. It is about bringing the kingdom of light amid a dark world. When you humble yourself, make yourself of no reputation, the Lord will exalt and promote you in due season. He is the Judge; He puts one down and raises another one up. He is the King in His Kingdom and has called you for such a time as this! Thank God for the Kingdom! Jesus came to establish a different order, a different Kingdom, unlike anything you have ever known. Repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand! (Mark 1:15)

Anchored in Hope

This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil. Where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever...Heb. 6:19-20

Hope in Crisis

The panacea for the ills of this world is Christ, the hope of glory. He still works miracles, is still faithful; He goes where the need of the physician is the greatest and is concerned about bringing wholeness to those who are broken, sick , confused or suffering through devastating circumstances. Those who are strong and well (healthy) have no need of a physician, but those who are weak and sick. (Matthew 9:12)

Transitional Time

It is a time of transition in which a paradoxical mixture of pleasant and unpleasant situations are occuring. Hectic and fast paced lifestyles are causing so many to become distracted, disconnected and adrift from their spiritual core. In times like these, things are rapidly changing and shifting many into new positions. It is the best of times, it is the worst of times; however by the grace of God you can choose to overcome any adversity and walk continually in victory. Thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ. Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Cor. 2:14, 1Cor. 15:57

Divine Embrace

The love of God is so amazing; He consistently goes to great lengths to demonstrate His concern for His people throughout all ages. In Him we live, move and have our being; we are partakers of His divine nature and were created for His glory. Today, more than ever it is critical to make Him known and live as examples of His love and grace.
In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will. (Eph. 1:11)

For Such a Time As This

It is the best of times, it is the worst of times; we have come into the kingdom for such a time as this. Change is inevitable, however choosing to grow and develop is an individual choice. So many world events are rapidly occuring to the extent, lives are being significantly changed amid harsh realities of some adverse situations. Although many changes that are occuring are beyond one's control, we can choose to respond positively and make the best out of negative situations. This important choice calls for having courage enough to confront uncomfortable and unpleasant realities, which often will cause a paradigm shift. As a result, old perspectives can be changed in order to adjust to new realities and move forward with renewed perspectives. As we embrace and adjust to change it could very well serve as a catalyst to positively influence change in the lives of others.

Life's Journey;

Life is a journey, not a destination; therefore one must learn to grapple with the many twists and turns along the way. On this journey, it is very important to have great expectations for finding fulfillment of life's purpose. In light of so many uncertainites and challenging situations, it is critical to envision and know for what you are searching. If you believe the scriptures, then seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and everything else will be added to you. You will know the truth and the truth will set you free; So if the Son liberates you [makes you free men] then you are really and unquestionably free. (Matt. 6:33; John 8: 32, 36)
The kingdom of heaven is like a man who is a dealer in search of fine and precious pearls, who on finding a single pearl of great price, went and sold all he had and bought it. (Matt. 13: 45-46)

Living Epistles

Most people like to be highly recommended and applauded for significant achievements; however as people of faith, our applause and recommendations come from the Spirit of God. In these challenging and unstable times, the faithful are called to make a difference in the world by pressing to become living epistles of Christ that can be read by all people. Our Father is seeking for true worshippers who will worship Him in Spirit and in Truth. It is time to make Him known throughout the world, letting the light of love shine amid darkness and hate.
You show and make obvious that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, not written with ink but with the Spirit of the Living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
(2 Cor. 3:3)

Divine Presence

In these times of challenging situations, many people are filled with feelings of doubt, skepticism concerning the supernatural power and intervention of God in current affairs. Now is the time for faithful disciples of Christ and true worshippers to arise to declare the authentic gospel amid erroneous teachings and beliefs. God is still in the midst of us and is mighty to save, heal and deliver from the power of darkness. The unbelief of some does not void the reality of divine presence in the world. We serve an Awesome God who is incredible, magnificient, amazing and so much more than words can describe; He is worthy of all glory, honor and praise. We will bless Him at all times and His praises shall continually be in our mouths. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so!
And Jacob awoke from his sleep and said: "Surely the Lord is in this place and I did not know it... How awesome is this place, this is none other than the house of God and this is the gate of Heaven! (Genesis 28: 16-17)

Times of Refreshing

How can I say thanks for all the wonderful things God has done, is doing and will continue to do for His children. The Lord is good, His mercy is everlasting and His truth endures throughout all generations. To God be all glory, honor and praise for everything; He is worthy to be praised. Those who believe in Him can continually be refreshed from rivers of living water flowing from the throne of God.

Fruitbearers

You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed you [I have planted you], that you might go and bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit may be lasting [that it may remain, abide], so that whatever you ask the Father in My name [as presenting all that I AM], He may give it to you. This is what I command you; that you love one another.
John 15:16-17

Genuine Worshipers

Now is an accepted time for genuine worshipers to worship the Father in spirit and in truth. He is seeking such people to surrender all, present themselves as a living and acceptable sacrifice. True worship brings about positive change and is released into the atmosphere through hearts that are yielded completely to Holy Spirit. Although challenging events are happening all around, in this season, genuine worshipers are moving forward in sync with sounds of destiny. God is a spirit (a spiritual Being) and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth (reality). John 4: 24

Timing

Timing is everything; therefore the timing of the Lord is perfect and in His appointed time, all things are made beautiful.
He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men's hearts and minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. ( Eccl. 3:11)

Favor

One day in the presence of the Lord is better than a thousand anywhere else. One moment of His favor is better than years of struggle and your life will never be the same.
For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He with-hold from those who walk uprightly. (Psalm 84:11)

Arise in Victory

Although many depressing situations are all around, as people of faith we are learning to arise with a victorious mindset because of faith in an unfailing and unchanging God. Just as in past challenges, God has helped us to overcome tumultuous situations and is faithful to continue helping in this season of challenges. God is still able to do exceedingly above all that we can ask or think according to the power that works within us. This is a time to arise in victory and not accept the agony of defeat; we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Christ who loves us.

Dream Again

Arise, shine for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen in you. ( Isaiah 60:1,2)

In these times of great turmoil many people are facing dark days of challenging situations, but for faithful believers there is hope in God. It is often through the dark days of trials and afflictions that the light of God's presence can shine into weary souls. With this in mind, it is time to dream again and look forward with expectation for a new season of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. Even-though so many have walked through seasons of broken-ness and discouragement, unfulfilled dreams may have been delayed but not denied. It is time to dream again and move forward into new dimensions of favor and blessings.

Have Faith in God

In these times of so many challenges and changes, there is comfort in knowing that God is our refuge and strength and a constant source of help in times of trouble. With this in mind, it is time to stand strong in faith with expectation that the best is yet to come. Although current realities of struggle and discomfort abound, we have an opportunity to press through the difficulties to witness a greater manifestation of the glory of God. Have faith in God for deliverance; He is still faithful to fulfill every promise; He is the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. ( 2 Cor. 1:3,4)
By faith, we believe that everything is working out for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. (Rom. 8:28) It could be that we have been called into the kingdom for such a time as this.

Best Days Ahead

Lift up your head, O you gates; and be lifted up, you everlasting doors,and the King of glory shall come in.(Ps. 24:7) Whatever struggles or challenges that are happening now, just know that Father God is concerned about you; He knows, He cares about every tear that falls, every heartache or disappointment in life. Strive to enter into His presence and realize peace, joy and love overflowing.
The best days are ahead.

...The glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former...and in this place, I will give peace. (Haggai 2: 9)

Comfort Amid Challenges of Life

As the days of January 2009 fade into history, it is already obvious to some people that new challenges are being introduced that will be dealt with in the months ahead. Into each life, some trouble will come but with every challenge, we can be comforted and sustained by the grace and peace of God if the choice is made to accept His invaluable gifts. He is the Father of all comfort in times of grief or trouble so that in turn we may be able to comfort others in their challenging seasons.
( 2 Corinthians 1: 3-7)

Comfort in Crisis

In the midst of celebrations and great expectations for better days ahead, some people however are experiencing the cold reality of grief, pain, suffering, loss and other devastating circumstances. No matter the cause of these challenges, there is a universality of feeling the pain brought on by critical life events. There is great peace in knowing that God, our Father provides love and comfort for the soul that is troubled or weary from bearing heavy burdens of life. He is the God of all comfort; therefore earth has no sorrow that He can not heal.

Jesus said, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls; for My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

Adjusting to Change

All around the world, so many things are rapidly changing; nevertheless, in order to remain focused, stable and confident, it is so important to get in touch with who we are at the core of our being. It is challenging, in these times, to forge the courage that propels one to move forward while making the necessary adjustments which allows us to forgive past failures, hurts or disappointments. In order to remain stable amid the blowing of new winds, it is essential to keep looking ahead with great expectations that better days are ahead. This positive perspective however calls for making tough choices that will demand a willingness of letting go of the familiar in order to press toward unfamiliar horizons.

Still

So many changes amid a world of instability and restlessness, nevertheless, faithful believers in Christ are assured through scriptures that He is still the same-yesterday, today and forever. God still controls the universe, He is still good, He is still faithful, He still works miracles, He still loves and cares for His people. It is very comforting to know that even during dark and turbulent times, we can have peace in the midst of the storm through believing in Him who is creator and sustainer of the universe.

Embracing Change

Change is inevitable, however choosing to grow and develop is an individual choice. So many world events are rapidly occuring to the extent, lives are being significantly changed amid the harsh realities of some adverse situations. Although many changes that are occuring are beyond one's control, we can choose to respond positively and make the best out of negative situations. This important choice calls for having courage enough to confront uncomfortable and unpleasant realities, which often will cause a paradigm shift. As a result, old perspectives can be changed in order to adjust to new realities and move forward with renewed perspectives. As we embrace and adjust to change it could very well serve as a catalyst to positively influence change in the lives of others.

Life's Lessons

Life's journey presents many opportunities to learn valuable lessons in every season, eventhough there could be times in which many challenges, changes, twists or turns cause you to grapple with harsh realities. In any case, there is beauty in every season; as people of faith, you have a sure and steadfast anchor of hope in Christ. With this in mind, lessons on building a bridge of love and unity will help carry you across troubled waters or to weather strong winds of adversities in any season. No matter the situation, you can arise from dark places of trouble and begin again in Christ.

Pressing Forward in 2009

What exciting times we are experiencing, it is the best of times- it is the worst of times, depending upon one's perspective. Great things are on the horizon in 2009, for it is a year of fullness and fruitfulness. So let's celebrate and look forward to better days.