WATER is powerful and prevalent throughout Scripture, yet here’s a curious thing about it: In the creation account, after Light was created, water was already there; it merely had to be separated – the heavenly waters divided from the earthly waters – a precursor to when God would divide the waters of the Red Sea. God worked again with water on Day three of creation, this time gathering the waters into seas (and by implication rivers as well, as four rivers are mentioned in Genesis One).

And progressing through the book of Genesis we find wells being dug, then Abraham’s servant finding a wife for Isaac at one of these wells. Even in the book of Isaiah we’re told how we will draw water from the wells of salvation. We also see water flowing from a rock to quench the thirst of a great multitude of people, not once but twice. Additionally, God Himself is referred to as a Fountain of Life in Psalm 36:9 and He is the One who orchestrated that water is the building block for life. Therefore it cannot be surprising that the composition of water in our physical bodies matches the composition of the earth’s waters.

Still yet in the Old Testament, Naaman is told to dip in the Jordan River seven times for the healing of his leprosy, and that same river parts for Elisha as he strikes the water with Elijah’s mantle, as it also did for the children of Israel when it was time for them to enter the promised land. It was also the Jordan River that supernaturally brought forth the prophet’s borrowed ax head after Elisha threw a stick into its waters to cause the ax head to float to the surface.

And Elisha’s precursor Elijah was supernaturally provided for at a brook named Cherith. Elijah also, after first hearing the sound of an abundance of rain, prayed for the rain that came and broke the drought that had been over the land. And Progressing to the New Testament, Jesus performs his first miracle of turning gallons of water into wine. His water miracles progress however. Not only does Jesus walk on water, He also calms the sea causing his disciples to declare, “even the wind and the waves obey him.”

Additionally, Jesus meets a woman at the well (historical records indicate her name was Photini) and causes her to become whole which results in her becoming an evangelist throughout Samaria. And through his conversation with her Jesus reveals, “whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” And then there’s the pool of Bethesda, the place where Jesus heals a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years. There’s also the pool of Siloam, the place where the blind man’s eyes were opened after Jesus told him to go wash in those waters.

Ezekiel also was brought to and shown waters, waters that flowed progressively deeper from the temple, so deep that the waters became a river. The Lord then brought Ezekiel to the bank of the river and told him, “and it shall be that that every living thing that moves, wherever the rivers go, will live. There will be a great multitude of fish, because these waters go there; for they will be healed, and everything will live wherever the river goes” (Ezekiel 47:9). And finally we find a River of Life, where the Tree of Life is found, and “the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations” (Revelation 22:2).

So we see waters prevalent throughout Scripture, as a life-giving element and an element connected to healing. Oh the power of the waters! This is why we are admonished to “come to the waters and drink” and this is why we are told “with joy you will draw water from the wells of Salvation.” Jesus himself said, “If anyone thirsts, let Him come to me and drink” because Jesus was God personified on the earth, and God revealed Himself to the children of Israel as our Healer, and then spoke through Moses when He said, “So you shall serve the LORD your God, and He will bless your bread and your WATER. AND I WILL TAKE SICKNESS AWAY FROM YOU (emphasis added).

The Living waters have always been available to us, as well as “the washing by the water of the word.” But something greater is coming . Far greater. (And is here). Jesus spoke of it when he said, “he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” Yes, something far greater is coming. A tsunami wave of healing is coming. Encompassed in a tsunami wave of God’s glory. I have seen this vision and so have others. And when it comes, the knowledge of the glory of the LORD will be made known.

“For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, AS THE WATERS COVER THE SEA. Habakkuk 2:14 NKJ emphasis added

Genesis 1:6-10, 2:10-14, Exodus 14:26, Isaiah 12:3, Exodus 17:6 & Numbers 20:11, Genesis 24:13-20, 2 Kings 5:14, 1 Kings 17:4, 2 Kings 2:13-14, Joshua 3:13-17, 1 Kings 18:41-45, John 6:19, Luke 8:24-25, John 4:14, John 5:8-9, 9:7. Ezekiel 47, Isaiah 55:1, John 7:37. Exodus 15:26, 23:25, Ephesians 5:26, Hebrews 11:25, John 14:12

I was the “the woman at the well” when I encountered Jesus. I was no longer living with the father of my six-month old baby girl, and already I’d been through a string of unhealthy relationships with men, and I would continue on in this way for a few more years because I did not surrender my desire for a husband to the Lord to God. Rather, I thought I’d help God out on that one – “Surely He’s wants me to be married now that I’m a Christian.” This was the single biggest mistake of my young Christian life. It resulted in another baby with my daughter’s father after a failed attempt at reconciliation. Then afterward, the unholiest of soul-ties with a man who was a wolf in sheep’s clothing; a man who was a convicted felon newly released from prison after serving his time for attempted manslaughter. I didn’t know either of these things when I ran into him on the street on that fateful day, but I’d known him from a few years before, and before I met Jesus. And he was the only man who didn’t keep walking when I shared about my encounter and how I’d heard Jesus’ voice telling me, “I’m cleansing you of your sins.” Because isn’t it interesting how immediately after my salvation, each and every one of my local boyfriends made an appearance at my door? But this was one mission I accomplished before I completely capsized in my new-found faith – I got to share my testimony with each one who came to my door, much like the woman at the well - “let me tell you about the man who told me everything I ever did.”

And then I made the decision to stop going to church Because I allowed shame to get the best of me when my pregnancy started showing, when the religious gatekeepers kept asking about the husband I didn’t have, rather than warmly welcome me into the house of God. It was also pride that got the better of me (I share a lot more details in the book “Broken Chapters” published by 100x – “21 Testimonies of How God Re-Writes Our Life Stories.) Because time doesn’t allow (in this particular story) to share how God got my attention and got me back on track in my relationship with Him after my daughter and her father almost died. She – from a bone infection that went undiagnosed for too long a time, and he from being intentionally run over by a car (by the convicted felon) while I was living in the hospital with my daughter. Sadly, God had to shout rather loudly as I went on my willful way, looking for a husband in all the wrong places. But thankfully, God also saved my life. Because what the enemy meant for evil (my daughter’s hip-bone infection that spread to her spinal cord and might have put her in a wheelchair for life had not God intervened and supernaturally healed her) God used for good. And that good was – when the mafia guy came to my door a second and third time – to settle a score and send a message to my daughters’ father – I was nowhere to be found. God was shielding me through the unique circumstance of living at the hospital with my daughter. The runaway living in my home would later convey all of this to me. So yes, God had to SHOUT rather loudly to get me back into alignment with the plan He had for my life.

And this is what it took to bring me back to church and ultimately back to Him. For I had finally found a church that accepted and loved me as I was – a single mom with two children. And this was the pastor who had anointed my daughter with oil at the hospital the evening before her scheduled surgery; the pastor who surprised me by showing up with his wife within hours of my phone call: “hello, you don’t know me but I’ve been going to church for three weeks now, and I’m at the hospital with my daughter and I’m calling to ask for prayer…” This was that church that extended the mercy I needed, instead of judgment. And they even let me assist working with the children, which quite surprised me. But as I continued with personal struggles, sometimes the only reason I showed up was because of the responsibility I had committed to. At any rate, I was content with my new church family, and I was growing spiritually despite continued mis-steps.

Then came another move and another church of the same denomination that also accepted me. And I would have happily stayed there… But God. An announcement came one Sunday – a new building and location for Church. And when the time came, I couldn’t find the church (pre GPS days). Two Sundays I tried and failed. But God was in it. This was the beginning of the re-direct He had for me. An later that week, my mom took me out to lunch, and in the process of doing a long-winded U-turn into a business parking lot, I saw a sign in a window. A little store-front church. Yet another “brand” I was familiar with, as when I had lived in yet another city, kind people made sure I had no excuse to not attend church and picked up both my girlfriend and I and our six children and took us to church. Well, here was a church of the same name. Here was where I would go come Sunday! But it was not to be. Although it was off a major street – Third Avenue – I drove up and down the strip, expecting to see, but not finding a sign for the church that I knew was on this strip somewhere.

But God. Once again. That very week, someone temporarily living in our large household, while out pan-handling in front of the grocery store (being in a wheelchair will elicit sympathy) had received a flyer for a special church event. This person took the flyer, knowing I’d be interested. And it was this same church, and now I had an address. So off I went that Sunday. And for the next Sunday and the next, while I began to truly get discipled for the first time in my walk with Christ. And if I didn’t show up one week, they’d come visit me that week to find out why. It was the accountability I needed. We also had church Saturday nights and weekly altar calls, and it was exactly what I needed. And one particular altar call I rededicated my life back to God. God had a full grip on my life now, and over the course of the year to come, I would learn more and more what it meant to surrender to God.

But it was only one month later that I heard some powerful testimonies of answered prayer. These were the twice-a-year “big testimonies” that served to inspire us in our faith. And one woman shared how she was no longer collecting welfare checks because she’d secured a good-paying a government job. I thought, “That’s what I need.” So when the time came I went forward, thinking this would be my ASK. But the Holy Spirit knew the true desire of my heart. Because when the pastor asked what I wanted prayer for, I heard myself say “I want to pray for a husband.” This was the first time in my life the Holy spirit “took” my tongue. I was shocked and the pastor was a bit taken aback, but he recovered quickly and said, “that’s a good thing to pray for” before launching into a prayer.

And this was the moment I finally, fully, gave this desire to God. Finally, I laid down this desire that had so completely shipwrecked my life. And for the first time in my life, I prayed daily about my desire for marriage. It was the first time I ever prayed daily for or about anything. But something in me was ignited at that altar, even though I was still in recovery mode regarding the mess I had made of my life looking for a husband. So I prayed and I prayed and I prayed, and eventually I began to mention three things I would like to see in a husband although I always made sure to add my version of “nevertheless, not my will but Yours.” And I didn’t think God was moving, but I kept praying. I certainly didn’t see God moving, but I kept praying. I had stopped looking outside the church walls for this husband to appear, but I kept looking at the church door, waiting for the brutally handsome guy to appear. The reality however, was that my future husband was already in my midst. The man God was preparing me for was right under my nose the whole time. The quiet unassuming guy who played guitar. The man I worked with on the drama team. The man I went on outreaches with. The man I simply could not see. Because I was still holding on to my own understanding and my own vision for a husband.

But God had a better plan, as He always does, and the answer to my prayers finally began to manifest – the man I least suspected at the start, but hadn’t I always had a thing for musicians anyway? And unbeknownst to me, this man had been undergoing his own personal transformation as a relatively new believer, and God had been preparing Him as well. After all, I was a “ready-made family” package and there were other issues that had to be addressed, which shall not be mentioned here.

But God had been moving all along, albeit unbeknownst to me, because when the pastor’s brother finally revealed his heart, I could hardly keep up with what God was doing, and what He had been doing all along. And when he finally professed his love for me – that’s when we had our first kiss. And the day after that first kiss is when he proposed. And when I said “yes” we stepped into a whirlwind seven-week engagement.

I can’t say I married my soul mate or my best friend or anything I hear many speak of these days. But I can say I married the man who was very clearly God’s choice for me, after so many of my own poor choices and three other men who had asked the same question. And it was God’s choice that led us to the altar only nine months after I laid the whole thing down at the altar. This is what God and God alone can do.

And this is the story of God choosing my husband for me. I pray it’s encouraged you; or perhaps you’ve been entertained. Either way, my tale is done. And I’ve been married to that man for almost 38 years now. And yes, we have walked through some stuff. But this man was God’s choice for me. He was the gentle spirit I needed after too many relationships with men and the consequences that attach to such relationships. He was the missing puzzle piece to my life – the one that fit perfectly. And he has been my stability who eventually also became my biggest supporter.

And this is why I can encourage you with faith and full confidence - if this is your heart’s desire – do not grow weary in the well-doing of asking. But also, don’t think you can picture the man God has for you. He may come in an entirely different package than the one you expect Also, God’s requirements might be different than yours. But He knows what you need, and it’s better than what you want or what you think you want. And as long as you’ve surrendered the matter fully to God and you are seeking God first, this thing and other things, will be added unto you. In God’s perfect time.

Thank you for staying connected. It’s my heart to inspire and instruct, as well as encourage, enlarge, equip and empower, as I am graced to do so.

I am an itinerant Minister and writing is my means of support. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber to receive continued testimony and slices of my life which I will continue to write for paid subscribers. Or consider a one-time donation to support a ministry trip to Texas at the end of this month. Godspeed and God Bless.

“Neither do I condemn you.” Jesus, John 8:11

This is how Jesus responded to the prevailing religious spirit of his day when the religious leaders brought before him the woman caught in the act of adultery, and would I say unjustly accused because she was only half of the equation of the act of adultery. (You hypocrites – it takes two to “adult” in that manner!) And previously, Jesus had already said:

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:17

It’s abundantly clear therefore, that condemnation was not a tool Jesus used, whether to gather or restore lost souls back to the Father or to welcome new ones into God’s Kingdom. Rather, condemnation and judgment, particularly unjust judgment, were tools of the religious spirit. And Jesus saved his harshest words for the religious folk of his day - not those he was welcoming in to become his brothers and sisters in the Kingdom of God. So why does the church still fall into the snare of operating in a religious spirit?

For here we are two-thousand plus years later, and the religious spirit is alive and well. Unjust accusations flying here and there in social media, as members of the Body of Christ put one another under the microscope of unrighteous and unjust examination instead of examining the unrighteous flecks in their own eyes. How is that we are so quick to give ourselves the benefit of our intentions and not our actual actions, but not extended the same grace of courtesy to our brothers and sisters in Christ. Do we need to be reminded again of the words Jesus spoke to his disciples as part of an intimate conversation he had with them right after He washed their feet? And told them of a new commandment he had for them? – to love one another as He had loved each one of them?

By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:35

I understand there are things coming to light in the Body of Christ that need to come to the light and be dealt with. I understand “judgment begins in the house of God.” I also understand the need for accountability, correction, tough love even, but the mud-slinging, over the smallest of disagreements and differences of opinion has become so prevalent that the mud has gone from our feet to our faces. I say “we” because in Christ we are one body, and one body in process of becoming One New Man if we believe the Word of God (Galatians 2:15).

“She should not have said this” and “he should not have done that” – the world is watching and it’s not an enticement “that the world might know Him.” Rather, it’s a repulsion. How can the world be reconciled to Jesus if we can’t be reconciled to one another? So let’s stop “shoulding” all over one another and let’s learn to prefer one another. “How shall we then live? Frances Schaeffer once asked. I propose we learn to mind our own business well and purpose in our hearts to defeat the religious spirit instead of one another.

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the spirit. Romans 8:31

Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another. Romans 12:9-10

Post-Script:

Things continue to come to light since I first wrote this in the fall of 2025, but t’s only as things come to light they can be dealt with. And as I see it, the continued shaking of the Church and the dismantling of ministries is that the Church may be reformed, restructured, and re-mantled according to the proper foundation of apostles and prophets and through those who seek to build God’s Kingdom, not their own. And let’s remember, when our faith is anchored in Jesus, it will not be shaken by any failure on man’s part. Man will always disappoint, but God will not.

I’m not against righteous judgment, but the world is watching how we handle both our failures and our disagreements. And speaking only for myself, it’s my aim to make sure I’ve always got eye-salve properly applied to my own eye first, before I attempt to remark about or attempt to remove and splinter or beam in anyone else’s eyes. There’s a Scripture about each day having trouble enough of its own so as not to worry about tomorrow. I see a parallel principle in my own life – I have enough on my one plate not to be excessively concerned about what’s on everyone else’s plate. And if I am biased, and it’s likely I am, my perspective is that of one who was forgiven much. If it wasn’t for God’s mercy I would have been stoned in my twenties.

And behold, a leper came and worshiped Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing You can make me clean.” Then Jesus put out His hand and touched Him, saying, I am willing; be cleansed. Immediately his leprosy was cleansed. Matthew 8:2-3

I am willing. Three powerful words, spoken by the Master. And contained in this phrase is the acknowledgment: “I can and I will.” For as this leper seems to have understood, it is one thing to believe God can, and another degree of believing that God will.

For it is far easier to believe God can; it takes another degree of belief that He will. Especially when it comes to ourselves, but the best assurance of knowing God’s will for us is to pay close attention to His “I will” statements recorded throughout Scripture for our benefit. For it’s through these “I will” statements in Scripture we’re given great insight into God’s heart and will toward us. Once these powerful truths reside in us, all doubt eventually gets kicked out.

And Jesus’ statement to the leper was merely a continuation of the heart of God that had already begun to be revealed through the old covenant prophets; and He Himself had a series of “I will” statements granting us further insight into the heart of God, which we’ll look at on a separate occasion. For we do well to take heed of these powerful truths, for these truths are promises which cannot be broken. For God is not only a Promise Maker, He is also a Promise Keeper, as He is not a man that He should lie (Numbers 23:19), and the word that has gone forth out of His mouth cannot be altered.

So let’s encourage ourselves in the Lord today and fill our spirit man with these twelve powerful revelations of God’s will toward us, spoken by God Himself. Let’s also allow God to highlight His particular truth to us for the season we’re in. Whether or not you already have a verse for your current season, allow God’s Holy Spirit to highlight one of these verses – perhaps one of these verses can ride shotgun with a verse you’re already holding in your heart. (Isaiah 48:17 has been a long-standing verse for me and a newer one is Isaiah 41:10 as it’s a '“triple hitter” promise! Godspeed and God Bless.

Twelve Powerful Promises

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. I will guide you with My eye. Psalm 32:8

Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! Psalm 46:10

My covenant I will not break, nor alter the word that is gone out of My lips. Psalm 89:34

Fear not, I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will hold you with my righteous right hand (3x) Isaiah 41:10

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you... Isaiah 43:2 (continue reading!)

Behold I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19

I will go before you and make the crooked places straight. I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the Lord, who call you by your name, am the God of Israel. Isaiah 45:2-3

I am the LORD Your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you by the way you should go. Isaiah 48:17

Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for me with all of your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord…” Jeremiah 29:11-12

“For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds,” says the Lord. Jeremiah 30:17

“For I am the Lord. I speak and the word which I speak will come to pass; it will no more be postponed; for in your days, O rebellious house, I will say the word and perform it,” says the Lord. Ezekiel 12:25 (& v28)

So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…Joel 2:25

Our Response back to God:

You may also want to meditate on your “I will” response back to God, Here are two examples:

I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth… Psalm 34:1

(and keep reading!)

While I live I will praise the Lord; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. Psalm 146:2

O my soul, march on in strength, Deborah, Judges 5:21 NKJ

Here we have a curious word translated as “march” in English. It’s the Hebrew word “darak” - often translated as “tread” as in the following verses:

Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon, I have given you, as I said unto Moses. Joshua 1:3 KJ

Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours….no man shall be able to stand against you….Deuteronomy 11:24-25

Happy are you, O Israel! Your enemies shall submit to you, and you shall tread down their high places. Deuteronomy 33:29

By implication, the word march – the word tread - is connected to taking dominion and taking authority. And this is what Deborah is modeling for us. Not only is she taking physical dominion over the land, she is also taking authority and dominion over her soul. She is proclaiming over herself that she will be strong. She will be resolute. She will not be subdued by any enemies, whether those enemies be external – the “ites” of the land - or whether those enemies be internal, such as a lack of fortitude, a lack of emotional strength, fear, doubt, the list could continue. She is taking governance over her own self, her mind, will, and emotions.

And although Deborah didn’t pen the words, she has known by experience “it is God who arms me with strength, and makes my way perfect” (Psalm 18:32). And this is why she can declare, according the NIV translation, March on, my soul; be strong! She uses her words wisely, she governs her mind, will, and emotion, and this is our example. What will we proclaim over ourselves on a daily basis and especially in times of crisis.

The King James translates Deborah’s 5:21 proclamation as “oh my soul, thou has trodden down in strength, and more accurately captures the strength of the word darak. For the word is also used to explain the strength of a bowstring being pulled back. By bending the bowstring back, the bowstring is being tread upon.” This is the power of the “march” of the army of the Lord, the “march” of good soldiers for Christ who endure hardship well and don’t bend or bow down under the weight of affliction. For in this world we have tribulation, but as Christ overcame the world, we too overcome, by His blood and by the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11).

We don’t overcome by complaint! We overcome by a resolute heart, willing to tread. Willing to tread upon our circumstances when the situation calls for it. For we overcome when we realize our strength doesn’t have to be small in the day of adversity (Proverbs 24:10), when accept it’s our circumstances that allow our strength to be forged, and not the soft life of abounding comfort. But we can take heart with Deborah and with David, for indeed “It is God who arms me with strength, and makes my way perfect.” We can proclaim it, and then we can live by it.

Darak (H1869): to tread; by implication to walk; also to string a bow (by treading on it by bending): - archer, bend, come draw, go (over) guide, lead (forth), thresh, tread (down)

Finally, there is a supernatural force and power in the Word. This is why reading the word, knowing the word, meditating on the word, and declaring the word is invaluable. The more you know the word, the more powerful you become in your spirit-man. Also, meditating on the word makes your way prosperous and gives you much success. (see Joshua 1:8) Accordingly,

here are some promises from the word (NKJ version unless otherwise noted) to meditate on that will strengthen your inner man. May the Holy Spirit highlight one of these verses for you to hold in your heart:

Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD! Psalm 27:14

The LORD will give strength to His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace. Psalm 29:11

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. Psalm 31:24

You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed (fixed) on You. Isaiah 26:3

Be supernaturally infused with strength through your life-union with the Lord Jesus. Ephesians 6:10 The Passion Translation

But the Lord is faithful, and He will give you strength and guard you from the evil one…may the Lord turn your hearts toward the love of God and the fortitude of Christ.

2 Thessalonians 3:3-5 excerpt The Jerusalem Bible

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The Backstory

This Thursday I’ll be part of a conversation on Identity, geared toward Gen Z, and I thought I’d simply be sharing off the cuff, but this morning the Holy Spirit interrupted that plan as I hit a chord of revelation reading from the Weymouth Bible.

The Message

Have you no answer to make? What is the meaning of all this that these witnesses allege against you? Mark 14:60

The Holy Spirit impressed upon me this morning the silence Jesus kept until the High Priest asked Him another question:

Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?

And here is the question Jesus chose to respond to – the question that spoke to His identity, and thus the more important question. And Jesus responded accordingly:

“I am” replied Jesus…

Two potent words that spoke directly to his connection and identification with the One who had first revealed Himself to His people as the great “I am” thus furthering the anger of the religious scribes and pharisees who heard and understood the meaning of the words, even as Jesus quietly but boldly concluded, “and you and others will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the divine Power, and coming amid the clouds of the sky.”

This response so infuriated the High Priest that he rent his garments and called the words blasphemous. But this was the heart of the matter – who Jesus claimed to be and who He claimed God to be - He claimed God not just as a “Father” but as His Father. Today we take this concept for granted, but it was a radical and revolutionary idea at the time - to address God in heaven as “Father.” And this is how He’d taught His disciples to address God when they prayed.

And in the next chapter, immediately after Jesus’ crucifixion, Mark went on to record:

Over His head was the notice in writing of the charge against Him: THE KING OF THE JEWS (Mark 15:26) NKJ

A direct statement regarding Jesus identity. Written above his head while he hung on the cross. All who saw Him would also see these words aptly describing Jesus as a king. For He is in truth the King of kings. And it’s by divine design his identity was first spoken aloud from the heavens by His Father in Heaven, immediately after he arose from his baptismal waters:

This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Matthew 3:17 NKJ

First it was spoken, then it was written. A foreshadowing of the written word, the testimony the four disciples would later write. And although not all four disciples recorded the Father’s voice from heaven, they all took note of the sign placed above Jesus head signifying His identity. And Luke gives us further insight about that sign:

And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS

Written in all three languages of the day, that everyone who could read would see it written as their eyes gazed upon Jesus. A notice that could not be overlooked -especially as it’s written in caps - John also gives us another piece of testimony:

Now Pilate wrote a title and put it on the cross. And the writing was: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS… Therefore, the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The king of the Jews,’ but only, ‘He said, “I am king of the Jews.” ’ ” Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.” (John 19:19-22 excerpt) NKJ

“What I have written, I have written.” Pilate did not back down. Just as his word stood then, God’s word stands today. God’s word is written, it is established, it cannot be altered.

My covenant will I not break, nor alter the word that has gone out of my lips. Psalm 89:34

Jesus was and is a King. The King of all kings. This was his identity, and it was recorded. In the same way our identity has been recorded, and it cannot be altered. We are sons and daughters of the Most High God. Male and female, created in God’s image and likeness. Dearly loved and accepted in the beloved. There is no mistake too grand to detract from our identity as beloved sons and daughters of God. There is no failure that makes null and void the love of God toward us. He created us in His image and that image stands, despite the stink of any pigpen our waywardness might bring us into.

The Conclusion Of The Matter

You may have muddied that image, but the image can never be permanently marred. It is a holy and sacred image that stands the test of every mishap. Your Creator ordained it to be so. You sins are removable. Each and every one. Your image remains intact. All you have to do is come back to the Father, come back to your true identity. You are a son, not a servant. And though you made a mistake you are not a mistake. And you are worthy of the extravagant love your Father has for you. Step back into the Father’s open arms and receive His embrace. He’s been waiting. He will clean you up and restore you to your original image. This is His gift to you.

Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! (1 John 3:1)

Postscript

I may have veered off my primary topic at the end, the evangelist in me often makes an appearance in this way, and I may change things still yet, but I thought I’d share here and now, without overthinking it and while I continue to process this message.

And writing and preaching is my work, my means of provision, if you are led to sow a seed. And for what it’s worth I make my coffee at home, unless I’m traveling. For me it’s a matter of stewardship….

And Jesus answered and said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marveled at Him (Mark 12:17)

The conclusions the Church has drawn from this story have been limited. We’ve either focused on the fact that the Pharisees were trying to trick Jesus, which they were, or we’ve focused on “we should pay our taxes” and “don’t cheat on your taxes.” But there’s far more here, and to uncover a deeper meaning we’ll go back to the beginning of the story:

When the Pharisees approach Jesus, they’ve already been offended yet again, this time by His parable of The Wicked Vinedressers, for they know Jesus was referring to them. So they approach Him, and though the opening words they speak are true, it’s flattery. Their words don’t come from love, they come from their insincere hearts. Their words are unadulterated flattery (another lesson here – learn to discern flattery) - “Teacher we know that You are true…You teach the way of God in truth…” etc. And then the Pharisees get to the real heart of the matter - they pose their question, designed to trap Him:

“Is it lawful to pay taxes or Caesar, or not? Shall we pay, or shall we not pay?” But He, knowing their hypocrisy, said to them, “Why do you test Me?” Bring Me a denarius that I may see it.” So they brought it. And then He said, “Whose image and inscription is this?” they said to Him, “Caesar’s.” And Jesus answered and said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marveled at Him. (Mark 12:15-17)

And perhaps the ones who marveled were the ones who understand the deeper truth here. Because Jesus had direct access, even oneness with the Spirit of Truth that came to Him the moment He came up out of the baptismal waters, He could have used any number of ways to give His response. And He could have used any other object to make His point, but He chose a coin as an object for a very important lesson. He could have evaded their question, as He did when He was asked, “by what authority do you do these things?” But He knew this was a teachable moment for those who had ears to hear. And a perfect opportunity.

Because Jesus had a greater purpose, and Caesar’s image was a launching point to speak of something far more important. “In whose image are you created?” Jesus is reminding those who have ears to hear. Just as the coin bore an image, we too bear an image and a likeness that we must be mindful of at all times. Because Jesus always gives and speaks far more than what we initially think, imagine, or understand. And some truth must be mined on a deeper level. Jesus answered a surface level question here, but He also used the opportunity to speak a deeper truth. A truth that holds far more eternal value than the earthly question that was posed.

In essence, Jesus is reminding us - we are created in God’s image, and just as He said “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s” He’s also saying, “Give to God a life lived in His image” or “live your life in God’s image and give that back to Him.” And this was the heart of the matter. For when we bear His image well, when our lives reflect Him well, we give Him the glory that is due His name. And our lives become well pleasing unto Him. He gives us life and we give our lives back to Him. We are called to be honest and just because He is honest. We are called to speak truth because He is Truth. We are called to be givers because He is a Giver. We are called to love our neighbors because He loves our neighbors. And when we do these things we become more like Him, more conformed to His image.

Know this also: No one else can express God’s image the way you can, with your uniquely designed gift mix of talents. And God has a purpose for each one of those gifts and each one of the skills He’s given you the ability to develop. And when you live your life in accordance and in unity with who He is, when you live your life as “unto Him,” you are living a life conformed to His image. This is His desire. This is His admonition, as referenced in Romans 12:1-2

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

And there are limitless ways to bear God’s image. Exhibiting “righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17) is a good starting place, as well as the holy fruit of His Spirit you allow Him to cultivate in your life, which starts with love and ends with self-control. Then there are the virtues listed in 2 Peter 1: 5-7, but all of this requires a yieldedness on our part, for we are the ones who choose our level of willingness in how we allow Him to form and fashion us that we may reflect him well:

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance Godliness, to Godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness, love.

We have ample opportunity to bear God’s image and represent Him well. Some of us are truth-bearers, some of us are Shulamites, some of us are Faith-walkers, some of us are His appointed mouth-pieces, but all of us are expected to be bear His image well. At least it’s the opportunity that’s been presented to us - to be Love and to be the Light in a dark world. Because the ultimate triumph is that light prevails and love wins. To God be the glory.

Love Him well and you will bear His image well.

Scriptures

So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:27

Love had been perfected among us in this: we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. 1 John 4:17

New Covenant Triumphant is a Kingdom business which preaches, publishes, and proclaims the Good News to all who have ears to hear. Please consider sowing a seed of support for an upcoming “distributing-bibles-and-helping-local churches” trip to Kenya July 3-20. Thank you for your support. And may you stand in the overflow of God’s Kingdom.

And behold, a leper came and worshiped Him, saying, “Lord, if you are willing, You can make me clean. Then Jesus put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed. Immediately his leprosy was cleansed. Matthew 8:2-3

The foundation for confident (and effective) prayer begins with the simple knowing that God is willing to heal us, cleanse us, deliver us, and make us whole. And although I don’t claim to know why everyone doesn’t receive an immediate healing, I do know this - that God’s will has always been to see His children be made whole. Even when He brought forth the children of Israel out of Egypt God made sure it was noted “and there was none feeble among them.” And I stand in theological agreement with Bill Johnson, who said, God forbid that I should bring my theology down to the level of my experience.” And there’s the rub. Too many in the church today pray as if they were “hedging their bets” rather than raise their faith, hope, and expectation up out of the level of their as of yet experience. To protect themselves from hope deferred perhaps, but then their mustard seed measure of faith is never given room to grow, as it was always intended.

May we stop releasing the wrong “seeds” (via our prayers) that God cannot water; wrong words born of wrong thoughts and beliefs. Because out of the abundance of our hearts our mouths do speak. At best, we are healed by the words we speak; at worst we remain in discomfort, disorder and dis-ease. Therefore may we begin to align our prayers with the realities of abundant life, to speak and pray those “things that are not as though they were.” May we only speak forth those sweet words that bless, heal, and deliver. May we shift our hearts, our thoughts, and our words, so that we might “declare a thing and see it established” and enter into the abundant life God intends for us.

To conclude, God makes a razor sharp distinction in regard to the will of the enemy of our souls and the will of the One who is the lover of our souls. John 10:10 is the summary of two opposing resumes; one brings death, the other, life. Church, we must choose this day which side our words will serve, especially as we pray. May it be forever settled in your heart today that it’s God’s will for you and everyone you encounter and pray for to be healed and whole in spirit, soul and body, regardless of what you currently see - for as children of the Kingdom of light we are all called to walk by faith, not by our limited sight.

Meditative Scriptures

But I say to you, that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. Matthew 6:36-37

(As it is written, “I have made you a father of many nations”) in the presence of Him whom he believed - God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did… Romans 4:17

The thief does not come except to steal, kill, and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 John 2

Prayer:

Father, may we pray according to heaven’s blueprint, not our own. May we pray not according to our own understanding or anxieties, but according to Your perfect will, as modeled by Jesus when He walked the earth. Forgive us, Lord, for every instance of a faith that wavers. and grant us Your grace empowerment to pray with an ever-increasing measure of faith, and may we pray the desired outcome, the solution, just as Jesus did. In Jesus Name, Amen

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“... The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” 1 Samuel 17:37

This was the moment when defeat began to turn to victory for the Israelite army. Because for forty days the warriors of Israel had allowed a giant to control the narrative. And in doing so fear had been instilled into the hearts of these men. Until the moment when David arrived on the scene and refused to come under the narrative. And countered back with a narrative of his own.

For David was a young man who David had a history with God. He had experienced God as His Shepherd who had provided for his every need and protected him in times of peril. And therefore David could speak with confidence and faith. Because he had experienced God as His Protector and Defender, David wasn’t intimidated by the words of Goliath. He knew who his God was, and he knew that His God was greater than any giant in the land. So David held his ground, from start to finish, never once allowing himself to be intimidated by the continuous stream of intimidation spoken by Goliath. But rather, he continuously countered back with a better narrative (that he himself created).

And then when David “drew near” to Goliath without armor and seemingly defenseless, he maintained his confidence in the Lord as he simultaneously maintained a victorious narrative, which culminated in these words:

“You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you….that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:46-47

And with these words David prophesied the outcome and the battle was won! The victory was sealed. It was only a matter of manifesting in the natural. It’s the same with our words. Whether we speak or whether we pray, we secure victory with our words. We prophesy with our words. We get to choose our narrative. We get to set the stage for victory. We have the opportunity to do as David did when he moved right past Goliath’s words and declared far better words, words that declared a far better outcome. David decreed a thing and saw it established. You can do the same. And when you do, the light of the Kingdom will shine on your ways, just as it did for David and just as it’s promised.

So speak the solution! Pray the solution. As David did and as Jesus also modeled for us. This is our model.

Meditative Scriptures:

You will also declare a thing and it will be established for you; so light will shine on your ways. Job 22:28 NKJ

My mouth speaks boldly against my enemies because I rejoice in Your salvation. 1 Samuel 2:1 NASB

For I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all of your adversaries will not be able to contradict or refute. Luke 21:15,

New Covenant Triumphant is Kingdom business and reader supported. If this message has edified or empowered you in any way, please consider a donation. And may the Lord continue to perfect those things that concern you. Blessings.

It’s been preached countless times – John 4, the woman at the well - and I’ve heard it said she was being sarcastic in her conversation with Jesus. And this morning in my devotional book the author stated she insulted Jesus when she asked the question, “Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us this well, and drank from it himself, as well as his sons and livestock?”

But as a woman who was very much like this woman when she came to Jesus, I’d like to suggest that Photini – the name bestowed to her by eastern orthodox tradition – was an honest seeker asking honest questions. Doing the best she could living a less than ideal life. I see evidence of this in her first question, “Sir, you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where then do you get that living water?” I resonate deeply with the intensity and genuineness of her question - that she just wanted to know - just as I wanted to know. For I set out on a quest for truth when I was 17 till my search came to an abrupt end at age 21 when the Person of Truth, Jesus, encountered me as the Light of the world, much like He did Paul on his road to Damascus.

I will ask her in heaven when I have the opportunity. But I do know this - There is a reward for honesty and a reward for seeking. Wholehearted and earnest seekers always find what they are seeking for, particularly when what they are seeking is God Himself. Perhaps Jesus peered right into the SEEK inside of Photini’s heart. For God always looks at the heart. And He is not put off or deterred by outward appearance. And most important, He allows Himself to be found by those who seek Him. So let’s remember there are those in our midst who are seeking, waiting to be found, whether they give voice to it or not.

And let’s not be so quick to impugn motives to Photini or any of our brothers and sisters, and not so easily pick up the narratives that have been handed down to us from pulpits and publishers alike. And watch to see what He Himself would speak to us. When we have ears to hear. And hearts to discern.

And you will seek Me and find me when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord. Jeremiah 29:13-14

“…Seek and you will find…” Matthew 7:7

I just watched a 30-second clip of my six- year-old grand-daughter tap-dancing for her school’s year-end talent show. And aside from the fact that it’s my grand-daughter tap dancing, here’s what I love about it: She’s never had a tap-dancing lesson in her life. In fact, she’s never had a lesson of any kind. She just decided “I want to tap dance and so I will.”

And because no one told her she couldn’t do it, she did (thank you mom). And many asked afterward how long she’d been tap-dancing. No one guessed she was self-taught, making it up as she went along, that she simply decided: “I can and I will.” And there’s a lesson in here for those who have ears to hear. Multiple lessons.

I rejoice in my grand-daughter’s boldness to do what gave her joy, and her willingness to try a new thing. And may you pause to consider: Is there an area in my life where I’m hesitant? What’s stopping me? Because God created you to be a brilliant light that shines forth. You weren’t meant to blend in or to timidly tip-toe around, but to stand out and stand strong. So what’s stopping you from putting on your metaphorical tap shoes and tap-dancing?

“But those that know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” Daniel 11:32

“They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces were not ashamed.” Psalm 34:

5

But when evening was come, the disciples came to Him and said, “This is an uninhabited place, and the best of the day is now gone; send the people away to go into the villages and by something to eat.” Matthew 4:15 Weymouth New Testament

Instructional Meditation

I came across this yesterday morning and I thought, “what an example we have here of what it looks life when we try to prescribe what we think God ought to do.” And although I can chuckle at the disciples telling Jesus what they thought He ought to do, because I know the outcome of the story and they didn’t, I’m immediately reminded of how often I’ve done the same, particularly through prayer. And I don’t know if any of us are not guilty of this at one time in our lives or another. And oh how often I’ve mapped out, through prayer of course, what God might do in a given situation; how He might move on my or someone else’s behalf. I’ve usually got lots of good ideas, in fact, I never have a shortage of them. I am a recovering intellectual in fact, a college graduate; I know how to think, and my thoughts abound. I can also attribute this in part to my Creator, He Himself bestowed upon me, at birth, His motivational gift of teaching outlined in Romans 12, and with this gift comes the ability to learn and study and ponder and assimilate ideas with ease, for a teacher is first and foremost a learner.

And so I often catch myself in prayer with my thoughts or agenda directing the prayer. And when I do, I have to surrender it back to the Lord through various means, methods, and words such as, “not my will, not my understanding Lord, but Yours Lord.” And I’m reminded again that He is infinite, uncreated, limitless, and able to do things in an infinite number of ways that will always ALWAYS exceed my understanding. And then I’m encouraged, all over again, that He is able to do things that are always outside the limits of my understanding; and in turn I’m thankful, all over again, that He is not limited by the limits of my understanding. And I notice here how often I’ve used the word “understanding” and perhaps it’s because my life verse, since 198, has been Proverbs 3:5 (in connection to Proverbs 3:6). And this was birthed from an experience of wrestling with the Word one night with utmost levels of frustration, because the Word I was reading (I can’t remember if it was the Gospel of John or somewhere in First, Second, or Third John) was not submitting to my understanding! Imagine that!

God’s Mercy

But God in His mercy, while I was in the shower the next morning, broke through in a way I could not NOT recognize was Him. It was so startling. I felt the external impact of a thought literally drop though my skull and into my head, not once, but twice – “Lean not on your own understanding.” In this manner I was able to recognize it was not my own thought; the source was not internal. And Yes, He spoke to me in King James English because that was the Bible I read for the first handful of years of my walk with Him. And the thought was so strong I could hear the thought; it’s best described as an audible thought. I now understand (through Him) this was the voice of the Holy Spirit, and this is the backstory of how “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; lean not on your own understanding” because my life verse and a strong part of the foundation of my relationship with my heavenly Father. And it has been a life-long lesson.

So the temptation, at least for me, is to resist operating by the “sight” of my own understanding and to allow Him to direct my paths – my geographical paths as well as the paths of my understanding and the paths of my prayers. And please don’t misunderstand, I have my moments when my prayers soar in the heavenly realms, when my words are not my own, but rather His, when my words are faith-filled and operating in a realm beyond my own capacity, when my spirit submits its own understanding to His. And I have this thought even now that makes me chuckle – perhaps I need to pray to surrender and submit my understanding to His before I pray. A prayer before the prayer as it were.

Man’s Meager Prescription

At any rate, man has his idea of how God could operate, how God “might, could, should” respond to prayers. And I wonder if some of these prayers give God cause for Holy laughter. I do know that His spirit often causes me to stop in my tracks when I’m praying and give me the course correction needed. So that He can do what only He can do and what He does best – to orchestrate things in such a manner that are always above and beyond what I could ask, think, or even imagine to pray in the wildest corners of my imagination. Oh, thanks be to God He gave us the gift of imagination, along with the gift of words, and a sanctified imagination can partner with God and with Faith to see great things accomplished. But there are also times we inadvertently get stuck in our finite imaginations and understanding. It is in these times that God reminds me to “let God arise” and let God be God. And it is in these times a switch is flipped and prayers of tongues are released allowing God to do the heavy lifting in my prayers.

So what does it look like when we allow God to be God? When we employ and exercise the truth that “nothing is too hard for the Lord”? Well, there’s no limit to how it might look, but here’s one example – an example which portrays man’s idea of what God “ought” to do (“send the people away) versus God’s idea, which is always a bigger and better idea, which cannot always be captured by man’s imagination(s) and which oftentimes has a far better result:

God’s Bigger and Better Idea:

“They need not go away,” replied Jesus; “You yourselves must give them something to eat.” “We have nothing here,” they said, “but five barley loaves and a couple of fish.” “Bring them here to me,” He said.” Matthew 14:16-18

Here we see God’s better idea - “You give them something to eat” meaning “You take some responsibility!” Oh but that is another topic. But you know the rest of the story, the miracle multiplication of our daily bread the disciples were to witness and partake of for the first time. But they didn’t do it independent of Jesus, they did it with Him and through submitting their understanding – or perhaps it was their lack of understanding - to His unknown and mysterious ways. And herein lies the key: Anything we do, anything we pray, must be submitted to His ways and His understanding, not our own. This requires faith, and in this way we partner with God for the outcome that often exceeds the bounds of our understanding. Because we cannot operate in the strength of our own understanding. This would be to operate independent of Him and miracles and miraculous answers to prayers can only accomplished through dependence on and partnership with Him. To God be the glory.

Let us pray

Lord Father God,

May we pray the prayers that please you, that delight Your heart; may we pray the prayers you can work with, may we pray the prayers of faith. May we prayer according your will and your way. May we lay down all selfish ambition in our prayers, and prayers of our own understanding. May we pray the prayers that are free of our own limitations, restrictions, and self-prescribed prescriptions that would try to control You or the outcome. May we pray in faith, and may we pray in love, a sacrificial love willing to submits to that which is Greater.

In Jesus precious Name, Amen.

Hello friend, I pray this has blessed you and I have more messages on prayer and the Word (always the Word) forthcoming on a weekly basis. I am a Minister of the Gospel and a gentle reminder here - this is my ministry, my means of support, and that there’s a promised blessing in giving. Would you prayerfully consider sowing a one time seed at this time? In His Love, Your Fellow Sojourner

No it’s not. In fact, your back is your strong support. It keeps you upright when working properly. It houses your backbone and everyone needs a backbone. So stop speaking death over your body via some variation of this theme. Your body is fearfully, wonderfully, and beautifully made, not to mention made it’s been bestowed with wondrous healing powers, not to mention the healing Hand of the Lord. Here’s a suggestion. The next time you’re tempted to make such a statement, let it be a prompt to ask God to touch you with His healing hand. And/or speak blessings (life, health, and strength) over your back or whatever system, organ, or structure that’s troubling you. I cannot count the number of times I said it and He did it. He will do the same for you.

2. “I’m an idiot.”

Are you? really? Lacking in mental capacity? Or do you just want to be? Lay this mantra down, the sooner the better. “Oh, but I merely jest” you say. Laughter is good medicine but these words are not. These words have the same power, the same impact, whether you speak them in all seriousness or in light-heartedness. Here’s a hyperbolic example to make my point: Would you go to a job interview and tell the person seated across from you you’re an idiot? Even as a joke? I didn’t think so and I rest my case.

3. “I’m sick and tired of _________.”

Are you truly sick? Or do you want to be sick? You can fill in the blank with whatever situation you wish to be ensnared in. Otherwise, stop decreeing sickness over your body, even tiredness. This is not meant to be your portion. Not to mention, your emotions aren’t meant to rule how you go about your day. Yes, it may be challenging, and yes it may even be a struggle, but you cannot afford to come under that thing. Because you were created to be above, not beneath; to overcome and not have that thing come over you.

4. “I can’t.”

Often, this is a masquerade for “I don’t want to try” and “It’s too hard.” Yes, it may be difficult, and you haven’t learned it, yet. And likely the reason you haven’t learned it yet is because you haven’t yet tried. Yes there are things you will never do – bench-pressing 200 pounds comes to my mind – but don’t allow “I can’t” to take up permanent residence in your mindset, especially as a component of your identity. There’s a reason Watty Piper wrote “The Little Engine That Could” and would that every kindergarten teacher or homeschool mom read this book to the children under her care and keeping. It would create such a powerful foundation and mindset for learning.

5. “I hate to say this, but…”

If you hate to say something, you probably shouldn’t. You’ve already allowed that’s it’s not going to be kind, or useful, or needful. Silence would be a better choice. In fact, silence would be golden in this moment. Not to mention that if you “hate” to say it, it’s likely not the Spirit of love in operation. Best to just stick to the Ephesians 4:29 admonition to speak only those words that impart grace to the hearer as well as Psalm 141:3: “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.”

6. “I’m sorry, but…”

This is part of the “but” attitudes and basically it’s a bad attitude. When followed by “I’m sorry” it signals you’re not really sorry. You have a reason, a justification, about why you did what you did and you have no iota of intention of changing your behavior or your mindset. In addition and as a general principle, anytime you follow up a statement with a “but” you are negating whatever came before that “but.” Basically, the only proper “but” is “but God.” All other “buts” tend to be ugly and unproductive.

8. “Shame on you.”

Shame is not to be tossed around. That’s the enemy’s job. There is absolutely no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. Jesus came to save the world, not condemn it. For further reference see that verse that comes directly after John 3:16.

9. One of the dozen or so variations of “there’s a bug going around and everyone’s getting it.” This is akin to rolling out the welcome mat. Please! Don’t put out the invitation! You don’t want to get it, so why empower it by making even the slightest allowance for it? You don’t have to “get” it – It’s not a gift, please, don’t have to receive it. Even if this means you have to quietly say, “I don’t receive that.” Protect yourself. Don’t allow these words to land on you. If you need further evidence for persuasion, I present the latter words of Esther 7:8: “…Then the king said, “Will he also assault the queen while I am in the house?” As the word left the King’s mouth, they covered Haman’s face.”

10. And finally, any negative word followed by these two most powerful words – “I am.” Made in the image of your Creator, made in the image of the One who first revealed Himself as the (Great) “I am”- these words are potent and must be handled with care. As the highest order of creation, you have been given a great gift – the power of your tongue. Use your tongue and these two words with extreme mindfulness and utmost caution. Because what you attach to “I am” – you are attaching to your identity, your “created being” which has created in the image of the One who created you - and this is the reason these words carry such weight.

But Wait! A bonus Tip!:

11. “I need to…”

Shifting gears here a bit, but let’s tackle three seemingly innocuous words: “I need to…” They seem so benign and they are. In fact, they’re powerless. Yes, you need to do such and such, but what are you actually GOING to do. “I need to” carries no authority, no weight, and no accountability. They accomplish nothing, they effect no change. If you really want to see change in your life, start speaking what you are going to do and what you will do. And watch to see your actions begin to align with your words. The mind body connection is mysterious and marvelous, and now it’s been studied and the effects observed. And there you have it.

I have ten more, but that’s for another day. And likely for paid subscribers. Please consider subscribing if this has blessed you. Godspeed and God bless!

Three women have the honor of having their names recorded in the genealogy of Christ - Rahab, Ruth, and Tamar, and as I asked the Lord one morning what these three women might have in common “tenacity” is the word that dropped into my spirit. So I explored the lives of these three woman – how each one exhibited tenacity in her own unique way – and here’s what I discovered.

Tenacious: Inclined to hold fast; inclined to retain what is in possession
Tenacity: the quality or ability to stick to a thing (or to others) Webster's 1828.

RAHAB – Joshua Chapter 2:

“Swear to me by the Lord, since I have shown you kindness, show kindness now to me and my father’s house and save us.”

Rahab the Strategist emerges here (and this becomes the pivot point of her life) after coming to an awareness and faith in the One True God as evidenced by her words earlier in the Chapter:

For we have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt…and as soon as we heard these things, our hearts melted; neither did there remain any courage in anyone because of you, for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.”

But back to Rahab’s BIG ASK – “show me kindness as I have shown you.” Here’s where Rahab recognizes and SEIZES her literal “one-in-a-lifetime” opportunity when it presents itself, and orchestrates the deliverance of her entire family! Even before Joshua draws his line in the sand and says “choose this day whom you will serve” Rahab decides on which side of the line she will live. She chooses tenacious faith in the One True God and because she chooses faith, Rahab is grafted not only into the family of God, but into the family line of Jesus through a marriage that results in the birth of Boaz (the one who will later marry Ruth!) Won’t God do it! As we partner with His ways!

Rahab’s starting point may have been “prostitute” but it wasn’t her ending point. And she ends up with an honorable mention in the Hebrews Hall of faith. How we finish is more important than how or where we start. Rahab also portrays the reward for going after a thing rather than continuing on in complacency or bowing down under fear. Rahab was a woman who was willing to take action and who was willing to make a bold ask, and she was reward accordingly. (JUDGES 2, Matthew 1:5, HEBREWS 11:31)

RUTH: The Book of Ruth

“Where you go, I will go, where you lodge, I will lodge, your people shall be my people, and your God my God.”

With these words, Ruth prophesies her future (and this continues throughout her story) and resolves to continue on in her relationship with Naomi and follow Naomi’s footsteps into an unknown land and an unknown people. She knows the journey won’t be easy but she’s willing to honor and submit herself to Naomi, work hard, and do the things that need to be done to secure a better future for herself and Naomi. And admirable, she does it all without complaint.

And Ruth’s actions always aligned with her faith-filled words that had set her course. Through the heat and through the gleaning – through it all - Ruth was thankful for every kindness shown her. Ruth listened to the wise counsel of Naomi and took a posture of humility. In the process Boaz took note of her and in the end she found favor in his eyes. And most remarkable, when the moment came Ruth was willing to do and to say the audacious thing – to lie at the feet of Boaz on the threshing floor and to ask him, “will you marry me?” And thus Ruth was grafted in, through marriage, to the bloodline of Christ.

TAMAR: Genesis 38

And then there's Tamar. As soon as we’re introduced to her, we’re told that her husband was so wicked the Lord killed him. An ominous beginning. Next, then her father-in-law Judah tells one of his others sons to marry her and to impregnate her, but he disobeys and the Lord kills him as well. Strike two. Judah then tells Tamar to remain a widow for a time till one of his other sons comes of age, but this is merely subterfuge – Judah likely has no intention on following through, evidenced by his words, “lest he also die like his brothers.”

A “process of time” passes before Tamar decides she’s not willing to be cast aside. She’s not willing to be robbed of what was promised to her. She’s not willing to be left out of her inheritance. The men in her life didn’t do right by her, but Tamar determines she’s going to have her baby one way or another. She realizes no one is coming to her rescue and that it’s fallen to her to do something to change her situation. and with a daring spirit and the highest level of audacity, she poses as a prostitute and gets herself impregnated by none other than her father-in-law Judah. It’s a wild story and her actions are audacious if not scandalous, but in the end Judah acknowledges, “she has been more righteous than I.” And in taking such a great risk, Tamar end up with a double portion, twin baby boys, and secures her place in the family lineage of Christ. Tamar didn’t give up and she reaps the reward of her tenacity.

Three women and three different expressions of tenacity in apprehending a better portion. Three women who believed God had something better for their lives and followed through in pursuit of it. Each one took the first step in changing the course of their lives, in seeking something better, greater. May their lives inspire you as you ponder what tenacity might look like for you in this season and what the Lord is calling you to apprehend through tenacious faith. Faith forward!

From the moment John stepped onto the scene until now, the realm of heaven’s kingdom is bursting forth and passionate people have taken hold of its power.
Matthew 11:12 TPT

“So let us not grow weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we do not faint, give up, lose heart, or grow weary. Galatians 6:9

Once there was a false narrative going out over the land. And those who gave ears to hear it were held captive by it, though they knew it not. And they forgot who they were and they forgot the truth and the strength they carried. But one day there arose a young man who heard the false narrative, but he did not give ear to it. Rather he was willing to open his mouth and oppose the narrative. Yes, he was willing to counter the narrative with a better one. And so he spoke the truth, boldly and unashamedly, and gave testimony of the LORD his God. He had a God confidence and he risked his life, and on that day the false narrative of his day was defeated. And those who had ears to hear now had truth to ponder in their hearts.

Friend, whether you think this is the story of the young David or the young Charlie Kirk you are right, for both these men risked their lives to speak the truth boldly and fearlessly. And I give testimony today that just as David defeated Goliath, the Goliath of false identity has been defeated. A generation has now awakened to know the truth of who they are and they will no longer be held captive by a queer narrative. Because the seed that fell to the ground and died on 9.10.25 will produce an abundant harvest of righteousness. The enemy, like Goliath, has overplayed his hand.

Much condolences to Charlie Kirk’s wife, children, and parents. We grieve with them, but not as those who grieve without hope.

Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain Jesus, John 12:24

David’s counter-narrative begins and continues from 1 Samuel 17:36, if not sooner

This is Mary’s charge to the servants at the wedding of Cana. A directive we would do well to heed. For this is perfect theology – whatever Jesus says to do, whatever is written in Scripture, do it. Whatever Holy Spirit brings to remembrance or nudges you to do, do it. For these seven words bring transformation.

And Mary knew this well. When we first meet her in the Scripture she is a young virgin who responds to the Angel of the Lord’s “with God nothing shall be impossible” declaration with equally powerful words:

Let it be to me according to your word” Luke 1:38

And some believe this is the moment the Holy Spirit overshadowed her and she conceived – the moment she came into agreement with the word spoken to her.

Fast forward to the wedding – Mary has had over thirty years to ponder many things in her heart; she knows who Jesus is and she knows it is in His power to do something about the wine that has run out and so she announces to Jesus the wine has run out. And she is not put off by Jesus’ seeming indifference to the situation, telling her it is not yet His time. She pushes right past that and decides something will be done, one way or another. Mary operates with the same faith as when the Angel of the Lord encountered her as a young maiden.

And the result is a miracle. Jesus instructs the servants to fill six waterpots with water. Six waterpots that were on hand. Six waterpots that were used for washing and purification. Six – the number of man.

And the servants fill these pots to the brim- reminiscent of the widow woman who was told to fill her vessels with oil. Vessels are meant to be filled, not halfway, but to capacity, and this is what these men did. And as they took it, as they moved in obedience to the instruction given, the water turned to wine and they were equally astounded as the master of the feast who tasted the wine. For they also became vessels of the miracle as they went forth in obedience.

And like the servants in this story, we are God’s vessels for the miracles He is doing today. He is the One who turns water into wine, but we are the vessels He pours through. We have the privilege to pray and to participate in His Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. This is the miracle – that we are His chosen vessels. And by faith we respond, by faith we act, and by faith we pour.

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. 2 Corinthians 4:7 NKJ

It is here we are given our first glimpse of the relationship between Esther and Mordecai, the one who had adopted her as his own daughter after the death of Esther’s parents. And what we see is Esther’s submission to Mordecai’s “charge,” Mordecai’s authority, which had prepared her well for where the Lord was taking her. For after Mordecai, Esther would have to submit herself to the care and keeping of Hegai, the eunuch put in charge over her, and then ultimately to the king himself. And as her story unfolds, we see it was Esther’s submission to the eunuch that granted her the favor she needed. This in turn prepared Esther to walk in the delicate balance of honor and submission before the king that would enable her to keep her head as it were. This is how valuable these virtues were in Esther’s life. Let’s take a look at how submission and honor continued to play out in Esther’s life, after her year-long preparation to go and stand before the King:

When the girl went into the king, she was given whatever she asked for to take with her from the harem to the king’s palace…..When the turn came for Esther…to go to the King, she asked for nothing except what Hegai the king’s eunuch, who had charge of the women, advised. Esther 2:13 & 15

But also we find the first mention of Esther’s relationship with the eunuch in a preceding verse:

So when the king’s order and his edict were proclaimed, and when many young women were gathered (taken) in the citadel of Susa in custody of Hegai, Esther also was taken into the king’s palace and put in custody of Hegai, who had charge of the women. The girl pleased him and won his favor, and he quickly provided her with her cosmetic treatments and her portion of food, and with seven chosen maids from the king’s palace, and advanced her to the best place in the harem. Esther 2:8-8

This is favor! And what do you suppose it was that brought Esther this level of favor. It was by God’s hand and it was her willingness to submit to the ones who had authority in her life. And her ability and willingness to honor them in the process. And to trust God’s unseen hand in the midst of her circumstances.

Also, we aren’t told how old Esther was, but according to the custom of the time, she would have been a girl in her teen years. And for such a young girl, she exhibits quite a level of maturity, and we might credit this to Mordecai’s influence in her life. We also aren’t told how young she was when she lost her parents, but it was likely under adverse circumstances as it was during a time of the Jews being exiled from their land. Things couldn’t have been easy. Yet Esther carries herself with dignity and grace, and part of that is her willingness to endure her circumstances and submit to those who had been placed in authority over her life. Esther had no choice in the matter, even her food was apportioned to her, yet she made the most of it.

We are even told a second time, in Esther 2:19 that we might take note”

“Now Esther had not revealed her kindred or her people, as Mordecai had charged her; for Esther obeyed Mordecai just as when she was brought up by him.

At this point in her life, Esther has no control over her life, yet she continues to submit, portraying a trust level in God that is quite high. And after Haman convinces the king to write the decree that called for the annihilation of the Jews, once again Esther is charged by Mordecai to “go to the King and make supplication to him and entreat him for her people” (Esther 3:8).

And you know the story, Esther, who operates under authority rises to authority as she continues to follow Mordecai’s counsel:

For if you keep silence at such a time as this, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father’s family will perish. Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this. 4:14

Esther rose to dignity and authority because she submitted to authority with dignity and with grace. And in doing so she fulfilled her part in history. What reward might there be with us as we learn to honor those we recognize God has placed in authority over us? And honor our fellow brothers and sisters in the Lord? Giving honor and preference to others, above our own selves. Esther modeled this well, and she received the reward for it, for herself and for her people:

Now what is your petition? It shall be granted you. And what further is your request? It shall be fulfilled. Esther 9:12, the king to Esther…

Meditative Scripture:

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit (as did Haman), but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not (only) to your own interests, but to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4 (parentheses added)

Joshua found himself on his face before the Lord after the defeat at Ai - a defeat that wasn’t supposed to happen, a defeat that didn’t need to happen, but a defeat that happened nonetheless. Joshua’s had accordingly made his petition to the Lord, ending with “For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land will hear it (the great defeat), and surround us, and cut off our name from the earth. Then what will You do for Your great name?”

What Joshua did wasn’t a wrong thing to do. He had a history with the Lord. He was the one who “lingered” after Moses would meet with the Lord outside the camp at the tent of meeting. And the Lord’s response to Joshua’s petition:

“Get up!” why do you lie thus on your face?

It’s not necessarily a harsh response, but neither is it a coddling response. For there is a time to present our petitions to the Lord, and there is a time to rise up. We cannot stay always in our prayer closets. We cannot always stay in a place of weeping and mourning. We cannot always stay in a place of receiving comfort. For there will always come a time to take action. And to adhere to the admonishment of 1 Corinthians 16:13:

Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.

For the times in which we live, as we approach the end of this age, require bravery, courage, and fortitude. For we are not exempt from the battle, rather we are called to it. We were enlisted and conscripted and at times we will have to endure hardship as a “good soldier for Christ.” And one of the best ways to learn to endure hardship, as Paul admonished Timothy (2 Timothy 2:3) is to learn to encourage ourselves in the Lord.

David is another who models this well for us. At Ziglag, he and his men lost everything. Everything. Their wives, their children, all of their supplies and possessions. There was a time for them to lift up their voices and weep, but then there came a time for them to rise up from that place of defeat, as we must also do. But for David, as their leader, he carried the burden of the responsibility for the calamity that had befallen them and his men rose up against him. In their place of grief they spoke of stoning him. And there only one thing David could do in that moment and he did it:

“David strengthened himself in the Lord” (1 Samuel 30:6).

And this is what we must also do at times. In the times when comfort and consolation cannot be found in the hearts of men. When only one Heart is big enough to shoulder the pain and the grief (or disillusionment) we carry. Only one heart in which we can release that pain to. Only one heart in which to receive comfort and counsel. This is God’s heart, and this is our starting place in times when we need to move forward in courage and confidence. As David wrote:

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the LORD our God (Psalm 20:7).

David was given many keys in his life, and this was one of them – the knowledge that the Lord was His source of strength. David knew – the Lord was on his side and the Lord would always fight for him. This is one key that allowed David to be strong and courageous, first as a shepherd and then as a leader of a nation (and as an emerging leader, Joshua too would come to know this). David always knew when it was time to lean into the Lord. To receive the courage he needed for the things he had to face. And we can and must do the same in this day and time in which we find ourselves. For the time is now to “Get up!” As it was in the time of David and in the time of Joshua so it is now.

Meditative Verse:

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJ)

These words were penned by David, who knew well the power of declaration. Even now, I hear his words echoing in my spirit: “The Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines and the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” (1 Samuel 17:46). David declared it and his victory was wrought first in the spirit realm before it manifested in the earthly realm. This is the power of declaration, and in this case the power of “I will.” From David’s example we can be mindful and we can be intentional of our own “I will” statements and what we attach to these two powerful words.

Know also – each “I will” response to God is a declaration of faith when it’s spoken aloud. And each time you declare a thing, as it goes into your atmosphere it enters your ear gate, and as it enters your ear gate it impacts your spirit in a powerful way. This is different from pondering a thing in your heart. It’s a Kingdom principle, and you may have already heard it said, “the kingdom of God is voice-activated.”

Additionally, this “I will” principle can be carried over to your day-to-day life – when you purpose to change your language to what you “need” to do, which carries no accountability, to what you will in fact purpose you will do. I have an e-booklet teaching on this, so for now this simple explanation will suffice. Let’s turn our attention instead to a few “I will” declarations pulled from Scripture. As you read them, trust Father God to highlight the specific one(s) for you in this season.

I will call upon the Lord who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.

Psalm 18:3

Whenever I am afraid I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me? Psalm 56:3

I will cry out to God most High, to God who performs all things for me. Psalm 57:2

I will lift up my eyes to the hills – from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1

I will stand my watch and set myself on my rampart to watch to see what He will say to me, and what I will answer when I am corrected. Habakkuk 2:1

Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. Habakkuk 3:18

I will praise You Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all Your marvelous works. I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praises to Your name, O Most High. Psalm 9:1-2

And now let’s turn our attention to Jesus, the One who ever makes intercession for us, always advocating on our behalf. Let’s conclude this devotional study looking at His words:

Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out. Matthew 6:37

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:3

And whatever you ask in My name , that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. John 14:13

I will not leave you orphans (or comfortless) ; I will come to you. John 14:18

And finally, the verse where this devotional began, the one that reveals the Father’s heart to heal his children:

And behold, a leper came and worshiped Him, saying, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Then Jesus put out Hi hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing: be cleansed.” Matthew 8:2 (see also Mark 1:40-41)

Be encouraged. Through these “I will” verses of both Father God and His Son Jesus, we have gleaned gems of wisdom regarding Father God’s will. We can be assured God’s heart is for us, ever reaching toward us. He is a good Father who has good gifts for us. Let there be no doubt about this.

Three women have the honor of having their names recorded in the genealogy of Christ - Rahab, Ruth, and Tamar, and as I pondered what these three women might have in common “tenacity” is the word that dropped into my spirit. So let’s glean some gems from the lives of these three women – how each one exhibited tenacity in her own unique way.

Tenacious: Inclined to hold fast; inclined to retain what is in possession

Tenacity: the quality or ability to stick to a thing (or to others) Webster's 1828.

RAHAB – Joshua Chapter 2:

“Swear to me by the Lord, since I have shown you kindness, show kindness now to me and my father’s house and save us.”

Rahab the Strategist emerges here (and this becomes the pivot point of her life) after coming to an awareness and faith in the One True God as evidenced by her words earlier in the Chapter:

For we have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt…and as soon as we heard these things, our hearts melted; neither did there remain any courage in anyone because of you, for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.”

But back to Rahab’s BIG ASK – “show me kindness as I have shown you.” Here’s where Rahab recognizes and SEIZES her literal “one-in-a-lifetime” opportunity when it presents itself, and orchestrates the deliverance of her entire family! Even before Joshua draws his line in the sand and says “choose this day whom you will serve” Rahab decides on which side of the line she will live. She chooses tenacious faith.

And because she chooses faith, Rahab is grafted not only into the family of God, but into the family line of Jesus through a marriage that results in the birth of Boaz (the one who will later marry Ruth!) Won’t God do it! As we partner with His ways! JUDGES 2, Matthew 1:5, HEBREWS 11:31

RUTH: The Book of Ruth

“Where you go, I will go, where you lodge, I will lodge, your people shall be my people, and your God my God.”

With these immortalized words, Ruth prophesies her future (and this continues throughout her story). Ruth is resolved, as evidenced by her words, to continue on in her relationship with Naomi. She is resolved - she will not be dissuaded - to begin the journey into an unknown land and an unknown people and to see it through to its end. She had to have known the journey wouldn’t be easy, but she was determined to follow the footsteps of Naomi into a new land. With her words Ruth set her course, and her words came to pass. Ruth worked hard, listened to wise counsel, but above all she was tenacious in her desire to stay in relationship with Naomi and her willingness enter a new land as a foreigner and start a new life

TAMAR: Genesis 38

And then there's Tamar. As soon as we’re introduced to her, we’re told that her husband was so wicked the Lord killed him. An ominous beginning. Next, then her father-in-law Judah tells one of his others sons to marry her and to impregnate her, but he disobeys and the Lord kills him as well. Strike two. Judah then tells Tamar to remain a widow for a time till one of his other sons comes of age, but this is merely subterfuge – Judah likely has no intention on following through, evidenced by his words, “lest he also die like his brothers.”

A “process of time” passes before Tamar decides she’s not willing to be cast aside. The men in her life didn’t do right by her, but she’s unwilling to be robbed of what was promised to her. Tamar determines therefore she’s going to have her baby one way or another and with a daring spirit and the highest level of audacity, she poses as a prostitute and gets herself impregnated by none other than her father-in-law Judah. And in taking such a great risk, Tamar secures her place in the family lineage of Christ. Her behavior was scandalous, but in the end Judah acknowledges, “she has been more righteous than I” and Tamar gives birth to twins. Tamar didn’t give up and she reaps the reward of her tenacity.

Three women. Three situations. Three different expressions of tenacity.

What have you learned? What are the gems you’ve gleaned?

Are there areas in your life where you could apply what you’ve learned?

Is there a Scripture that comes to your mind? Here’s mine:

“So let us not grow weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we do not faint, give up, lose heart, or grow weary. Therefore, as we have opportunity let us do good to everyone, and especially unto those of the family of faith.” Galatians 6:9-10, paraphrased