When an ordinary woman or man meets an extraordinary God, normal life takes on a whole new meaning. Knowing God changes everything! We cannot encounter the living God and be the same. A personal relationship with Him takes you to another level. Your life will never be the same! Things that used to matter in this world no longer matter. Things that did not matter, move you deeply. The things you know break God’s heart will also break your heart. You will no longer chase after things of this world but you will chase after God. You will seek Him daily! The funny thing is once you do that, everything you need you will have. God will place the right people in your life, God will give you physical, financial, and spiritual blessings beyond your dreams! Your spiritual eyes will open and you will live in such a way that miracles are a daily occurrence. You will no longer take for granted the sunrises and sunsets. You will be thankful for the small blessings. You will rejoice when a life is changed in response to what God has done in yours! Love and Blessings…

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:11-13)

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” ( Philippians 4:19)

There is a separation going on in this season. With our natural eyes we can see that many false prophets are being exposed. However, it is only through our spiritual eyes that we can see the spirit of division that is taking place among the body of Christ. The devil is deceptive and he is using this season of separation to divide the body of Christ. I say this because we are so focused on what’s going on in the world, that we are oblivious to what’s happening within God’s church. The devil is not worried about being exposed. The Bible has already exposed him. His world is already divided, from politics to sports, economic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, poverty, and an increase in crime and corruption has made people more insecure and self-centered. No, the devil is not concerned about the world, his attention is on God’s people, the body of Christ, but so is God. I love the way Brian Troxel put it and I quote:

“The only Church with which His Spirit is concerned is HIS CHURCH. His Church is not a building or an earthly organization. His Church is HIS BODY and those who walk and live in His Spirit desire and pour out their lives to see His unity revealed through a people with pure motive.” (Brian Troxel “Our Sufficiency – Part Two” A Word In Season WP)

“I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.” (Acts 20:29-30) ESV

“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands…. Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? (Acts 17:24, 1 Corinthians 3:16)

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) NIV

This is nothing new, from the beginning the enemy has attempted to deceive and destroy to benefit his own agenda. It certainly is no surprise to God. Paul the Apostle tells us in 2 Timothy 3:1-9 that in the last days people will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable slanderers, without self-control savage, opposed to what is good, treacherous, reckless conceited, loving pleasure rather than loving God. They will maintain the outward appearance of religion but will have no relationship with Christ and its power. When Paul spoke of these things, he was not speaking of non-believers, but the church, followers of Christ. This should not be. If we are servants of Christ, we should have the mind of Christ. One mind. Unity is where our power lies through Jesus Christ. I share with you this quote by D.L. Moody;

“I have never known the Spirit of God to work where the Lord’s people were divided.” “The Spirit of God doesn’t work where there is division, and what we want today is the spirit of unity amongst God’s children, so that the Lord may work.”

I agree with Mr. Moody and the enemy does too, which is why he works so hard to divide the people of God. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians, 1:10, “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment”

Jesus said in Luke 12:5, “Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three.” And In Matthew 10:34 Jesus states, “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.”

Jesus is a divider. But don’t get it twisted. The division Jesus is speaking of is between those who love Him and those who do not. This season of separation is not within the Kingdom, but division from the world. Following Jesus means to be separated from the world. God is exposing false prophets and those that are playing both sides. Jesus is saying we, as His followers must seek Him first even if it means being separated from family and friends.

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)

“They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:16-17)

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:15-17)

“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me,” meaning if we are one in Christ, we will have unity with one another.” (John 17:21)

Unity in the body of Christ is one where God’s Word is not compromised nor are the principles of the biblical gospel. Unity in the body of Christ is how God displays not only His power and His presence, but also His glory. The enemy knows this and he knows we as Christians are strong because He who is in us is stronger than who is in the world. The enemies plan is to penetrate God’s People? He wants to turn us against each other and turn our backs on Jesus. If your spiritual eyes are not open you will not see his plan. The spirit of division is not a respecter of persons, he will deceive whoever he can.

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1) ESV

“I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.”
(Romans 16:17-20)

We must not continue to allow the enemy to divide us. Why is it that some Christians are so happy when another believer falls, so quick to judge. So quick to sit high and look low which only God can do. Whatever happened to praying for one another. Yes, we should hold each other accountable but at the same time be quick to forgive and pray for one another. We can’t change people but God can. We cannot afford to sit idly by representing the body of Christ and be a part of the enemies lies and shenanigans. We must boldly speak up with the authority God has given us. We should be applying biblical and divine answers to any questions put before us, not opinions and I think so. We can agree as followers of Christ on all matters when scripture is the final authority on which we speak. If it does not align with God’s truth, then it is wrong, period. The church should reveal to the world what true oneness, equality, and freedom can produce.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:3)

“And Jesus came and said to them, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:18-19)

“For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:13)

“There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?” (James 4:12).

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29)

Brothers and Sisters there is no middle ground. Scripture tells us, “He who is not with me is against me” (Luke 11:23). This is the time for us to stand together as God’s people, loving each other, praying and encouraging one other. The enemy knows he has already lost the war, but he wants to take as many as he can down with him. As followers of Jesus Christ, I encourage you to walk together, in peace and love in the body of Christ. For the Bible tells us “For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future” (Ephesians 4:4) Love and Blessings…

We are thankful for our blessings and everybody is happy for us, right? Wrong. There are some who will get upset when God favors you and blesses you in abundance. Some people have the spirit of Cain; they hate the fact that you have favor with God. And it is not always your enemies that feel this way. Sometimes the very ones that you think have your back are waiting to stab you in it. Remember Judas sat at the table with Jesus. But Jesus was not surprised, He already knew. He also knows who does not have our best interest at heart and will reveal it to us if we have a relationship with Him. Otherwise, we may not see the betrayal coming. The very ones we love and trust can hurt us the worst. One of God’s angels rebelled against Him. He wanted to be God’s equal. He wanted the honor and glory that belongs to God alone. Because of this, he was banished from heaven. His name is satan which means accuser or adversary. There is no clearer example than that of satan. Some people want what God has blessed you with. I am not talking just monetary, but your peace and joy. Some people enter into your life and the next thing you know your joy and peace vanish and has been replaced with chaos and confusion. When this happens you know it is not of God. God is a God of order and peace. Satan loves the opposite. He will imitate God’s angels to destroy you. He was once an angel so he is a skilled counterfeiter.

“Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.” (Psalms 5:12)

“for this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.  We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous. Do not be surprised, brothers that the world hates you” (1 John 3:11-13) ESV

“And while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me. Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, “Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?”

“Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.” (Revelations 12:7-9)

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” (1 Corinthians 14;33)

Everyone will not celebrate your success. Everyone will not like you. In fact the scripture tells us when we choose God, the world will hate us as it hated Him. The spirit of the enemy (envy) will have them feeling your success came at their expense. That should have been their promotion, their house, their spouse. They irrationally believe that you have their blessing. People have the tendency to look at where you are now, not realizing the struggle you may have went through to get there. What did you have to give up? How many relationships did you lose? Victory only comes after struggle. Success is the reward that God gives to the diligent, who through perseverance and patience obtained the promise. The enemy is always going to try and block the blessings God has for us. But what God has for us is for us and no one can take it away unless we let them. Your struggle helps you appreciate the blessings when they come. When I speak of successes, I am not just talking monetarily, the most precious possessions are peace and joy. These are priceless gifts that come from God. Unfortunately sometimes those who are closest to you will try to steal them as well. A jealous heart, which is not of God, can be the beginning of betrayal.

“If the world hates you, know that it hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” (John 15:18-20)

“But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” (James 3:14-16)

“Now as for you, be strong and never be discouraged, because there will be reward for your work.” (2 Chronicles 15:7)

“But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” (2 Thessalooans 3:3)

“No eye has seen, nor ear has heard and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

“May the God of Hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.” (Romans 15:13)

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8)

This does not mean we give up on people, God does not give up on us. It means we ask God for discernment and wisdom. We ask God to open our spiritual eyes because everything is not as it seems in the natural. It means that we pray for them and ask God for direction on how or how not to deal with them. We can be thankful that God always has our back. He will protect us from those who mean harm and will remove them from our lives if we can’t. And when He does remove them, we must not try to keep them or let them back in! As brothers and sisters in Christ, we should encourage one another and rejoice when others are blessed. It is easy to do this when we keep our eyes on the Blesser and not the blessing. People change, seasons change, but God will forever remain the same.

Love and Blessings…

How is your heart? Most of you will agree that the world today is chaotic and unpredictable. Our minds and hearts can become so consumed with the things of the world and what we may be going through that our gratitude becomes suppressed. We start to take for granted what we do have and we grumble and complain about what we don’t have. Before we realize it, we have developed an ungrateful heart. This is the week of Thanksgiving, where everyone is focused on being thankful and grateful. It is the perfect time to repair our hearts and remind ourselves of what the Lord tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name” (Psalm 100:4)

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)  

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)  

Choosing to rejoice in the midst of stressful circumstances is not a normal reaction in our world. But as Christians it should be our first response because we know the One who reigns over all the earth. Every day regardless of what is going on, we must be grateful to the One who makes our day possible. When we tap into the wisdom of the Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, we do not have to allow our circumstance to hold us captive. We can have a heart of gratefulness and rejoice even in difficult times because we know God is in control and working things out for our good. We may not always understand why, but we can trust that God has a purpose and a plan.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, whohave been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

“Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.” (Colossians 2:6-7)

There is always something to be thankful for. We can surely thank God for Jesus! Because of Him, we are saved from the sting of death. Because of Him, no devil in hell can separate us from our Lord! Thank God that through Christ we have power over the enemy. Have you experienced a time when there seemed to be no way out, but God came through and made a way? We can thank God for His faithfulness. We thank God for His wisdom, guidance and direction in our lives. We are so blessed to be able to consult Him, and to allow Him to direct our paths. God is life. He gives life. He wakes us each morning by breathing air into our lungs. He makes the blood course through our veins. I know it may be difficult to maintain an attitude of gratitude when life is hard, and things seem to be falling apart. Trust and believe God has not forgotten about you. He’s always working on our behalf even if we can’t see it. Thank God for His divine plan. Thank Him for His perfect timing. What a privilege we have to carry everything in prayer to our God, our hopes, dreams, worries, fears, burdens, petitions, and heartaches.

“He will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself will be with them; he will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain any more, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelations 21:3-4)

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” (Psalm 32:8)

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)  

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)  

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you.

‘Rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer,” (Romans 12:12)

“I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me.” (Philippians 4:13)

Even on our worst days, there is always something to be grateful for. Some days may seem hopeless and it may look like the enemy is winning. But for those of us who have read the ending in the Book of Truth, we know that we have the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! Our hearts should overflow with gratefulness for all God has done, what He is doing, and for the gift of eternal life He has given us. A grateful heart brings peace and contentment. Love and Blessing…

“To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee forever.” (Psalm 30:12)

I believe when a person is full of jealousy and envy, it is because they are unable to see what God has provided and the blessings in their own life. The lack of thankfulness and gratitude will blind you. All you can see is what the other person has and what you do not have. Someone once said that comparison is the thief of joy. God made us all different but loves us all the same. There is no respect of persons with God. (Romans 2:11) God did not design us to compete with one another. He only wants us to love and support each other. There is no need for envy or trying to be like someone else. Cloning is what man does, God made us all unique and we are His individual masterpieces. (Ephesians 2:10) Just as He made enough space in the sky for every bird to spread its wings and fly, He also made room for each of us to spread our wings and excel.

“A peaceful mind gives life to the body, but jealousy rots the bones.” (Proverbs 14:30)

“Don’t envy evil people, and don’t long to be with them.” (Proverbs 24:1)

“A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men” (Proverbs 18:16)

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

When we try to live according to the worlds standards of an excellent life, we lose sight of God’s purpose for our life. We get out of our lane and try to get in someone else’s, believing it is better. Then our life becomes a wreck or a wreck waiting to happen. The dictionary’s definition for excellence is “the quality of being outstanding or extremely good.” Well that can change in the world depending on who you talk to. I am reminded of the words of Jesus in Mark, chapter 10, verse 18, “And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God”. So, if excellence is the quality of being extremely good and God is the only One that is good, then true excellence is characteristic of people who understand that they have been made in God’s image, that they have been “saved” by what Jesus Christ has done on the cross, and they are striving to live life according to God’s Word. True excellence is a relationship with our Heavenly Father, where we are empowered by the Holy Spirit. It means that we strive to be the best we can be and to do the best we can do. Excellence reflects moral virtue and it is positive and praiseworthy. Maybe not to the world but pleasing God trumps pleasing man. When your actions are authentic and sincere and reflect what you believe in, that’s integrity. When you are living your purpose in life and not trying to live someone else’s, your God given gifts and talents will make room for you. We must know and understand the importance of seeking God first, pursuing godliness, and gratefully living in accordance with God’s Word.

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

“But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.” (1 Timothy 6:11)

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:10-11)

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

A life of excellence becomes possible when we strive to live a godly life, as it is described in the Scriptures. The wicked may seem to achieve success without any consequence, but God always gets the final say. Be patient, Galatians 6:9 tells us, “And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint.” When we do things with pure intentions, joy and positivity will overflow in our lives life. True “excellence” glorifies God and is never about being better than others. This means excellence is attainable for every person because Biblical excellence has nothing to do with how you compare to others, but it has everything to do with your attitude and how you live a life that glorifies God. When we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, we can spread our wings knowing that God is faithful and He is always working on our behalf and for our good. Love and Blessings…

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24)

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)

“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart” (Psalm 37:4).

Ok it’s your season. Everything is working in your favor. Prayers have been answered and your cup is running over. Praise God! However, do not make the mistake of thinking it’s all about you and that “your” season revolves just around you. When we think like that, we miss the opportunity for God to use us. Everything God designs is for a purpose, including the seasons of life. Blessings come to us to flow through us, not just to us. God told Abraham, “I am going to bless you and “through” you all the Nations of the earth will be blessed”. That position, status, gifts, talents, and power that God gives us is to advance His Kingdom here on Earth. God does not elevate us just so we can live large. There is nothing wrong with enjoying the favor and blessings of God, it is when we begin to think it is all about us that our spiritual defenses may come down and we may neglect discipline and relationships that have kept us close to and dependent on Jesus. When we are more thankful for the gifts than we are thankful for the Giver, our focus is on our resources rather than God who is our Source. No matter what season of life we are in, we must use our God-given positions for the benefit of the Kingdom of God.

“He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.” (Psalm 1:3)

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” (2 Corinthians 9”8-10)

“I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you.
And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” (Genesis 12:3)

“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)

When we focus on advancing the Kingdom of God, we fulfill God’s purposes for us, and it is awesome to see Him work through us to be a blessing in the lives of others. God commanded us to “love your neighbor as yourself.” Blessing others and receiving the blessings of others is a great part of fulfilling this mandate, enabling us to carry out that love. When we use our blessings for only our personal benefit, if we make it all about us, we become self-absorbed and lose sight of God’s plan and purpose for us. We miss the opportunity for Him to use us. Because we serve an intentional God, you can rest assured that we are in a particular season for a reason. I am reminded of the Book of Esther, where Esther’s cousin tells her “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you”. (John 15:12)

“For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13)

“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)

Even though God is not mentioned in the Book of Esther, it just proves to me that God is always at work, even if we can’t see Him. Throughout the book, I see God controlling, directing, and working through all what seems to be circumstances in order to protect His people and accomplish His ultimate purpose. I don’t think it was just luck that King Ahasuerus chose Esther from among all the young women of the kingdom to be his next queen, I’m sure there were others just as beautiful. (Est. 2:17). I don’t believe it was a coincidence that Mordecai overheard the plot against the king and rescued him from assassination, and Mordecai’s valiant deed of loyalty was recorded in the royal archives. (2:21–23). What about when Esther presented herself before the king (which, in Persian law, was punishable by death), and she “won favor in his sight” and was spared and allowed to speak. (5:2). Nope, that was not a coincidence. Was it just good fortune that the king could not sleep and therefore ordered that the chronicles of memorable deeds should be read to him or that the scribe just happened to read about Mordecai and his heroic act or that the king was alert enough to ask whether Mordecai had been rewarded for his deed. (6:1–3) And how ironic for Haman to walk in just as the king was considering how he might honor Mordecai for his deed. (6:4–12). Was it just bad luck that Haman “was falling on the couch where Esther was” to beg for his life just as the king returned which the king interpreted as an assault upon Esther? (7:8). It is interesting that Mordecai was made second in command in place of Haman over all of the vast Persian empire (8:2,10:2–3). Coincidences? No, I don’t think so. We serve an intentional God and His hand was all over this! However, what if Esther had stuck to her initial reaction when Mordecai asked her to go to the King. Esther was slow to come around to the idea of going in to visit the king. Her first reaction was fear and concern for her own life. It was a lot to ask, she would be facing the possibility of death. We know that God’s purpose would have been fulfilled even if she had not allowed God to use her, as her cousin told her, but Esther would have missed her opportunity to be used by God. It was only when she thought about her people and that she may have been placed there for this purpose that Esther came through, and God used her actions to save her people. A Jewish orphan, became Esther, the queen who saved her people. (The Book of Esther)

What we can learn from Ester is when we are blessed we must be obedient to God to be a blessing to others. We see God’s love for His people and how He worked in the lives of Ether and her cousin Mordecai for the good of Israel. Today He also wants to use us and work in our lives for His people and His Kingdom.

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Don’t you know you’re God’s masterpiece?” (Ephesians 2:10)

“One person gives freely, yet gains even more, another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:24-25)

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” (Isaiah 6:8)

“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” (Daniel 2:20-21)

Blessings are not just material things. They can be words of encouragement, your time, even a smile. Acts of kindness does not have to cost a thing. Most people think of blessings as good health, family, wealth, happiness, status, and material things. All that’s good but is nothing compared to spiritual blessings such as peace and joy. When we walk with Christ, we open ourselves up to more spiritual blessings, like forgiveness of sins, the Holy Spirit, the power to do God’s will, and eternal life. Just like the physical blessings, God wants us to share these spiritual blessings as well. The goodness of Christ is too good to keep to ourselves! Love and blessing…

What would happen if the caterpillar were not allowed to turn into a butterfly? Would it die? What was interesting in reading about the metamorphosis (transformation) of the caterpillar, is that it was born to grow into a butterfly. There is no way to stop it and if you did find a way it would die. It is amazing how the Christians life is similar to the life of a caterpillar. Reading about the caterpillar, I was reminded that we were created in the image of Christ and as believers, we are new creatures, who are being renewed in knowledge after the image of its Creator. And as we grow in faith, we are being transformed into His image from one degree of glory to another. If we are not willing to be transformed, we will spiritually die.  

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

“and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him,” (Colossians 3:10)

“So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.” (2 Corinthians 3:18)

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” (2 Corinthians 4:16)

“For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” (Romans 8:13)

In entomology the transformation process for a caterpillar is known as “holometabola, a full change, or the “complete” metamorphosis (transformation) from wormlike larvae to winged butterfly. It is a beautiful story, a caterpillar wraps itself with silk, makes a cocoon, and out comes a butterfly! But there is more to the story, the process itself is not beautiful, it is gruesome. The process of Christians being transformed from the inside out is not always beautiful either. God does not always tell us step by step what He is doing in our lives. It can be scary and sometimes overwhelming. People may look at you as if you are weird and different. The truth is the power to change comes from God’s Word and Spirit, but the desire and willingness must come from us. We must trust God no matter what it looks like. We must humble ourselves and be willing to surrender our life to Him. For a caterpillar to turn into a butterfly, the caterpillar must fall apart completely, totally decompose, losing its shape. It is only then that the butterfly starts to assemble itself from the remains of the caterpillar. We too must completely lose self, empty ourselves, and allow the Holy Spirit to work. We can only become what God originally created us to be when we allow Him to work in and through us. We can only function according to Gods original design and purpose for us when we allow God to transform us to who He original designed us to be. Transformation is the continuous renewal, refreshing, and working of the Holy Spirit within us. As we are being transformed, we will find it easier to focus on what is important in life: which is Christ and spiritual things, not the things of this world.  

“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20) 

“And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice – the kind he will find acceptable. Do not copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Romans 12:1-2) 

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10) 

 “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2) 

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) 

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” (Isaiah 26:3-4) 

Caterpillars are targets for birds and other insects and some are destroyed before or during the transformation process. As believers, the enemy targets us constantly. Especially during the fight against our flesh and our spirit. The enemy knows we cannot win the fight without Christ, so he is relentless. His intent is to destroy us. He knows that when we surrender our life to the Lord, we have everlasting life. Satan also knows if we do not, like the caterpillar, we will die. (spiritually) 

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full” (John 10:10). 

“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1John 2:17) 

“being confident of this very thing, that he who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6) 

“according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will in no way be disappointed, but with all boldness, as always, now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:20-21) 

When we get a revelation of God’s desire to have a personal, loving relationship with us and how Jesus has forever made this relationship secure, it becomes real, and we begin to transform. The caterpillar’s body does not die during the transformation process, it dissolves but it does not disappear. It just reassembles itself into a beautiful butterfly. That is what happens with believers, we do not die, we have eternal life. Transformation is a process, and it does not happen overnight. Transformation can be a beautiful thing to experience if we trust God’s process. God is amazing! Love and Blessings… 

“THE FLOWER THAT BLOOMS IN ADVERSITY IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL OF THEM ALL”
___Author Unknown

I have been going through some physical challenges lately. I know I am not the only one going through something. I do not know about you, but it seems the closer your walk with God, the more the enemy will try and attack you. When you are in tuned with Jesus, living daily for Him, the enemy cannot touch you spiritually, so he will attempt to attack you physically, mentally, or financially. He will use those closest to you, family and friends to help him. He will tell you that because you have fallen short, you cannot receive your healing, he will tell you that you are not rich enough, smart enough, pretty enough. The devil will remind you of your mistakes, failures, and sins. He will tell you that because you have fallen short, you will not receive blessings or healing from God. He will accuse you, condemn you, and try to persuade you that you deserve everything you are going through. And if you are focused on what the enemy is saying, and not on what the Word says, you may begin to believe the lies of the devil.

“What shall we then say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)

Jesus tells us we would go through some things in this world. But He also said He had overcome the world. God said, “You shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near you” (Isaiah 54:14). The truth is that the devil cannot enforce anything in our life if our heart and soul is steadfast in faith and in the righteousness of Jesus.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Jesus said we are healed, and we know our God cannot lie. We must not forget that God did not say there would be no weapons formed, He said they would not prosper.

“no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me,” (Isaiah 54:17)

“Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” (Romans 8:37)

So yes, the enemy will attack our body with symptoms. We will feel the pain. The doctors say you are sick. We hear them. The test confirms we are sick. We see them. What we are hearing and seeing begins to affect what we are thinking. Then we speak it, the facts say that I am sick. So do we walk according to the facts, or do we walk by faith? Whose report are we going to believe? The truth is Jesus said by His stripes I am healed. Jesus shed blood on the cross for my healing. So why do we pray for healing when we are already healed? This is the time to stand up and declare, because of Jesus’s finished work I am not trying to get healed, I am already healed!

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)

“If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you” (Romans 8:11)

I will pray for the healing to manifest and I will pray for strength to endure. But what I will not do is give in to the enemy and speak his lies. I do not care what it feels or looks like, I will stand on the victory ground which Jesus has given me. I am here to tell you, the doctors, the medications, can only work when you are believing and fighting from victory. Your words are powerful and it makes a difference when you know you are fighting from victory and not for victory! Love and Blessings…

“But thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)