STANDING IN THE BATTLEFIELD

Circumstances arise to cause either our faith to arise or to bring silence; there are no other choices.  Either we can allow fear to keep us isolated from confronting the situation or we can stand against it.  Yet, it’s hard to gain the strength to fight when no one is supporting you.  It’s a feeling of completely hopelessness as the circumstances continue to come against you.  Yet, we forget an important truth: there is a warrior inside of you!  Now it may not “feel as if you are standing in the battlefield” but it’s right where you are.  With a target upon your back, the enemy is completely prepared for battle to destroy your faith, your marriage, and you life.  It’s not a comfortable place to be but warfare is never meant to be.  It’s time to arise from the ashes!  

Arising from the ashes takes courage, learning how to fight, and an un-shakeable faith in God.  Although the battle lines are drawn, God hasn’t left you powerless.  It’s really on how you “see” the situation.  It’s important to understand how to see in our circumstances, so please turn to 2 Kings 6:8-22.    

 Standing in the battlefield isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s where the warrior wife is born.  

It’s the perfect place to understand the enemy of your soul has placed a PERSONAL attack again you.  Why?  Look at 2 Kings 6:8, “Now the king of Aram WAS AT WAR WITH ISRAEL.”  So, this king decides to attack the children of Israel WHO BELONG TO GOD!  You are a target for the enemy when you choose to love God.  No matter if you have only been saved for an hour or ten years the enemy of your soul will attack you.  Yet, there is no reason to panic!  Yet, this is what the enemy desires to keep our heart in.  He will attack your peace, your ability to think clearly, and keep your heart in a state of panic.    

 So, what has you in a state of panic?  Keep in mind, we will face different seasons in our life and in our marriage but it doesn’t mean we are alone.  What is completely beautiful about the story found in 2 Kings 6:8-22; we get insight on how the enemy fights.  First, we must understand he has a strategic plan to be carried out by his army.  Satan is looking for the attack!  (1 Peter 5:8)  Yet, God’s Word tells us in the passage of 1 Peter 5:8 to be sober-minded and alert of our enemy.  A sober-mind is able to think clearly, discern, and be calm during the attack of the enemy.  Secondly, Elisha was able to discern the battle plan of the king of Aram.  God didn’t want the children of Israel to be attacked; He protected the children of Israel at every turn.  He not only protected the children of Israel; He frustrated the plans of the enemy.  According to verse 11, the king of Aram was ENRAGED and believed a mole was within his midst.  God is completely aware of the enemy’s schemes and attacks.  The king of Israel listened and obeyed the instructions of Elisha.  So, it’s important to realize the important of not only our prayer life but the ability to walk in the Spirit.  God will ALWAYS speak to us but we have to be still to hear Him.  Also, when He speaks we listen and obey.  Next, the battle plan grew more intense; the king of Aram had a personal vendetta against Elisha.  However, look at how his plan un-folded: he found out where he lived, he wanted to destroy him, and sent strong forces in the night.  Keep in mind, the enemy carried out his plan while Elisha was sleeping.  It wasn’t until he was awake; he found the enemy at his doorstep completely surrounded.  That’s how the enemy wants you to feel completely surrounded with no escape in sight.  He isn’t naïve to who you are or your address!  So, the question is how do you “see” the situation?

 Elisha and his servant saw the same situation but each had a different outcome.  Elisha’s servant was in a state of panic and afraid of what to do.  That’s what the enemy wants us to do is be in a state of panic and afraid; he wants us to look at the physical situation.  It’s impossible to overcome in our own ability or strength because the forces against are strong.  Yet, as Elisha said, “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”  Beloved, you are able to be a mighty warrior because your Commander in Chief doesn’t sleep or slumber.  Not only is He aware of the battle again you; He is ready to attack!  As God instructed Elisha how to attack his enemies; God will do the same for you.  It’s just being un-shakeable in your faith in the God you know and love.            

SHIPWRECKED BY THE SHORE

"Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned.  Three times I was shipwrecked.  Once I spent a whole night and day a drift at sea."  2 Corinthians 11:25

The Apostle Paul experience severe persecution and hardships for his faith in Christ; although he once persecuted the church.  As a believer, I pray I am able to stand strong as the Apostle Paul when my faith has been tested.  Not only was Paul's conversion miraculous; the testimony of honoring Christ was truly shown in his life.  How do we know?  Well, Paul wrote a very good portion of the New Testament.  What an amazing and powerful work of the Holy Spirit!  Yet, may we never forget God's working in our lives; a powerful work to bring glory to God.

  

Nevertheless, I can't seem to get this metaphor out of my head spoken from a spiritual mentor in my life.  "Tina, your heart has been shattered."  "It's been shipwrecked by the shore."  "What are you going to do with it?"  "Are you just going to sit by the shoreline?"  "Or do you want to re-build the boat and begin again?"  Since graduating from college, it hasn't been smooth sailing.  Honestly, I didn't expect it to be, I wasn't naive about the call of God upon my life.  My precious Savior wasn't spared disappointment, ridicule, was spit upon, and crucified.  So, I expected persecution, people misunderstand the role of women in church, and my life being carefully watched.  Yet, I was willing to give my life; Christ called me to preach.  It has been my drive to honor Christ with my life; one day to lay a crown of worship at His feet.   

Matthew 10:24 says, "The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master."  

I have never been beaten with rods, stoned, shipwrecked, or spent a night a drift at sea.  Yet, my heart has taken a severe beating, I am truly shocked of the wreckage.  I am overwhelmed with the aftermath of the damage of my heart; my faith is the weakest in my life.  Sadly, as leaders we are not allowed to show our hearts, our weakness, or our struggles with our faith.  It's difficult to keep offering Biblical Counsel or the Word to watch someone ignore your warnings or assistance.  Understand, it's Biblical to live a life of approach but I am afraid the spirit of "being perfect" has robbed our leaders.  It's robbed leaders of truly being truthful or to seek accountability, joy of serving Christ or others, and brought utter loneliness.  At this moment, the wreckage has left me completely speechless, I can't speak.  I can't move.  It's difficult to breath.  My heart is shattered in a million pieces about to drift out into the sea.  Who will gather it?  Who will help me pick-up the pieces?  

A vessel only has two fold purpose: to be poured out and re-filled.  It's truly the heart of a minister who longs to serve.  It's investing in the broken lives of people who need Jesus.  It's an investment of your time, money, and your complete heart.  Also, if your married and have children, it's important to nourish and protect those relationships.  Nevertheless, the call of God doesn't escape your families sacrifice.  Oh, it's a balancing act for sure; it was instilled very quickly while in Bible College.  Yet, what do you do when the vessel is broken?   I understood the cost-my personal cost.  Yet, what has broken my heart has been the damage to my family.  As a wife and mother, I have carefully and prayerfully watched where my family is spiritually.  It's more important than ministry; it's a calling from God as well.  With mounting past disappointments in ministry, a recent tragic event upon one of my children, another child who has backslid-den and the fire of God slowly leaving my husband's heart.  I am pausing to reflect, pray, and waiting on God to move within there hearts.  The waves have taken a beating; I am shattered on the shore.  Do I doubt God's promises or His Word?  Never!  Yet, I keep looking with my heart, "Lord, what did I do wrong?"  "Where did I miss your guidance or direction?  

Am I able to risk the salvation of my household?  Am I willing to allow the call of God to divide my marriage?  Oh, the tug of war within my heart!  To honor my husband or follow the call of the Beloved, the one I love most.  My beloved who I cherish above all and desire to please the most.  What about when I give an account for my life; it creates a deep fear within my heart to disappointed God.  Yet, this tug of war is leaving me joyless, frustrated, and completely tired.  At the moment, I can hold to what I know to be true.  Nothing gives me more joy than to serve the Lord, I love it.  To be a co-laborer with Christ at the altar, it's my favorite place to be.  Also, to share the Word with those who are hungry to hear it.  It's a personal call to follow Christ, where He leads I will follow.  Our walk of faith will never mirror someone else's; it will be different for each of us.  

Yet, the wreckage is leaving a question if I will re-build the boat or will I remain at the shore?  No one truly understands the strength, prayer, and belief it took to make it to shore.  Elijah went into the cave because of fear; God didn't call him there.  (I Kings 19:11-13)  Yet, I understand why he sought refuge there.  What brought the great prophet out?  It wasn't the earthquake, the mighty wind, or the fire.  Only the voice and presence of God drew him out to the entrance of the cave.  It was the soft, beautiful, and loving voice of God.  That's what I am waiting for, hunger for, and refuse to move until He speaks.  A smoldering wick He will not snuff out.......although I am close.  Yet, I must allow God to mend the pieces; a work I so desperately need.

DON'T STOP DIGGING

It's been truly a season of weariness for my soul; it seems as if the promises of God are out of reach. My heart is tired, aching from the weariness of waiting, and surrounded with hopelessness.  Does God operate only in slow speed?  At the moment, it honestly feels this way.  As I have held unto the promised of God for so long; my grasp has been slowly letting go.  As the words of the enemy keep whispering, "God will never fulfill your calling!"  Deep within my soul I knew the truth, it's a lie completely from Hell.  However, it feels as if the mountain isn't standing around me; it's on top of me.  It's buried me deep!  All of the questions, fears, and the weariness of waiting has caused me to withdraw completely.  It's honestly broken my heart, the core of my being.  God spoke the world into existence with His word-nothing else.  Oh, how powerful are the Words of God!  So, what's the truth of the lesson?

During worship this morning, I felt the Lord stirring my heart to a story found in Genesis 26:12-25 about Issac.  Issac is working in the fields of his enemies and the Lord blessed him greatly; it was a hundredfold.  It was enough to get the notice of his enemies!  As Issac's wealth grew, so did the envy of his enemies.  Both were growing with strength and power, so the enemy tried to attack him.  All of the wells of Abraham were dried up due to the Philistines filling it with earth.  What a slap in the face!  A promise of God was given to Abraham; a promise to be carried through his family line.  Yet, it's buried deep within the earth.  Water once existed there, it's a place of remembrance!  It's named accordingly to the purpose and powerful promise of God.  Yet, the wells died with Abraham, it's only a distant memory until Issac takes the shovel.  

Faith must act with the Word of God, so it can come forth to completion. 

What has God spoken into your life?  It's a powerful Word of truth, power, and nothing can defeat it!  Yet, maybe it feels as if it's buried deep in the well; it's covered shut.  It's buried with all of the discouragement, despair, questions, and defeat.  Not only has the power of the well stopped; the opportunity to open the well is removed.  The enemy commanded Issac to move away because YOU HAVE BECOME TOO POWERFUL FOR US!  Wait a minute!!!!  Did you catch what the enemy said?  You have become too powerful for us.  What did Issac do wrong?  Absolutely nothing!  He was completely faithful, working diligently, and blessed for serving the Lord.  Sometimes we don't understand why the battle comes into our lives.  It wasn't anything Issac did wrong; it was the un-godly motives of his enemy!  Yet, maybe the battle was for Issac to recognize the power of God inside him. 

Although Issac didn't realize it, God was working in his life.  Issac moves to the valley of Gerar and settles there.  Although his motives are pure and true to the calling of God, it didn't stop the plan of the enemy.  We must understand God's calling is a precious gift; it doesn't come without warfare.  It doesn't come without our faith being tested, our character transformed, and a personal work of God within us.  

Issac is reopening the wells that have been dug in the time of his father.  What a beautiful opportunity to be allowed to honor his father!  All of the wells stopped after Abraham's death but Issac is bring them back to life!  All of the wells keep the original names spoken by Abraham; it was Issac's desire.  As the servants faithfully dig in the valley, something emerges from the broken ground-fresh water.  Issac heard about the promise of God but it had to be a personal encounter.  Issac couldn't carry the promise of God in his heart until he dug for it.  He had to personally see it, feel it, and believe it for himself.  It was a work God wanted to do within the heart of Isaac.  Out of brokenness heart God will bring about "fresh water" to our lives.  We are not only to hold unto the promises of yesterday; we are to dig for the present ones.  We are to be steadfast, persistent, and open to the direction of God's leading.

When we are truly called and blessed by God, it will be evident in the physical.  The fresh water was proof of God's blessing and the herdsmen of Gerar quarreled with Isaac's herdsmen.  A quarrel of a jealous heart causes discord to prevent the work of God to continue.  It's interesting to me how the herdsmen who reside in Gerar didn't do any of the work.  Yet as the water comes forth, they make their claim.  So, Issac named the well, "Esek" and it means "contention."  If that's not a mouthful!  So, Issac moves on to dig another well but they claim it too.  So, he names it "Sitnah" which means "hatred."  Finally, Issac digs another well and names it "Reheboth." It means "spacious place."  When God makes a promise upon your life NO ONE can take the claim; it will be too spacious for anyone to hold.

As Solomon said, "There is nothing new under the sun."  It seems always people want to take credit for the work of others instead of taking a shovel to help.  Although the territory of the valley of Gerar was of Philistine origin; it didn't stop the blessings upon Issac's life.  May this give your heart peace especially if you feel as if you are in the enemies camp.  No matter where your feet may travel, God will always be with His children.  Issac didn't stop digging because the enemy pursued him; he keep digging until the enemy shut up.  NO ONE QUARRELED over the well!  Eventually, the enemy will get tired of pursing us, he can't conquer us.  The mission or call upon our lives may be attacked but it can't be stopped.  God will lift up our hearts as we eagerly pursue to dig the wells!  How can I be sure?  God appeared to Issac and He blessed him!  

"That night the Lord appeared to him and said, "I am the God of your father Abraham.  Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham." Genesis 26:24

The enemy wanted to cause Issac to stop digging the wells, he wanted to destroy or frustrate the work of his hands.  Yet, although the enemy pursued with a savage desire; it was quenched.  As the presence of God came to Issac at Beersheba; it was the solid well of oath.  It was the completed well of promise because Beersheba means "the well of an oath; the seventh well." (all of the definitions for the wells came from www.biblestudytools.com)  

Issac was powerful to conquer the battle of the enemy because God was with him.  Not only was it a proven in the physical world but the enemy saw it.  When truly God does a work in our life; even the enemy will stand to watch. God will never quench the promise in our lives but He wants us to dig it out!  He wants us to purse it with an eager heart, anticipation of the promise, and fight until it's done!  Don't put the shovel down!  Pick it up and dig again!  God will give you fresh water, He will never allow you to die from thirst.  Don't you get it!  Issac had the last laugh!  He conquered the plan of the enemy because he didn't stop digging.  

On the Battle Line

As the ground shudders, his footprints thunder with each step he takes.  His very presence causes immediate fear and intimidation, he is enormous.  No ordinary man can face this man eye to eye, it’s impossible.  Yet, the words he utters brings a paralyzing fear to prevent the children of Israel to attack.  On a daily basis this giant comes to bring fear to the lives of these people, even the king refuses to protect his people.  The army is hiding in fear, the king is absent, and this giant keeps coming and it’s been forty days! (I Samuel 17:16) 

If you want to overcome the giant-you will have to smell his breath.  In other words, only a face to face combat will work.  Faith only needs an opportunity to work, size isn’t a requirement to conquer giants.  There is an old saying “The bigger they are, the harder they fall.”  Either we will join the crowd in fear or we will step out to see the impossible done.  Faith invites us to see the impossible; impossible is God's specialty.  Israel was willing to get ready for battle but they weren’t willing to fight. (I Samuel 17:21)  When the giant appeared, the army hid in fear instead of working together to defeat him. 

The enemy of your soul is going to taunt you with words of fear, may come to intimate you with his presence, and will refuse to leave until he is rebuke.  As David said, “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine?  David recognized the voice of the enemy in the midst, he brought this to the attention of the people.  Also, he revealed the enemy’s purpose was to “defy” the armies of the living God.  In other words, David recognized the giant for who he was-the ugly enemy who was attacking the children of God! All of God’s promises are true and hold a reward for the children of God.  Whoever defeated the enemy of the Philistines would get great wealth, marriage of the king’s daughter, and be exempt from taxes! (I Samuel 17:25)

     What’s very interesting David’s three oldest brothers were trained in Saul’s army, they choose to serve.  Yet, the moment David talks with the military men, Eliab gets angry with him.  He attacks David fourfold:

1.       His purpose

2.       Being irresponsible or un-capable to be among the men

3.       Pride/wicked heart

4.       Observe the war or not willing to lead

Keep in mind, the body will not always follow the leader God selects.  Yet, the language usually to attack a leader comes through the spirit of Eliab.  Eliab dressed like a warrior, sat in the camp, and refused to move to assist the people he was to protect or work with.  (That is another sermon) 
Sadly the army followed the heart of Saul, they hid in fear.  Why wasn’t the king dressed in battle?  Saul tried to prepare David with his artillery but IT DIDN’T FIT!  We can’t expect to fight the giant with other people’s weapons, we can only defeat giants with confidence in God.  Goliath fought to bring fame unto himself.  David’s battles were only seen by God in the desert, he learned to rely on God.  Keep in mind, David wasn’t comfortable or familiar with Saul’s weapons.  Instead he used what he was familiar with!  David approached the battle line with a staff, five smooth stones, and sling to come to the battle line.  It’s the weapons of a shepherd! 

Sometimes we get so intimated with the giant, we forget our own weapons or how to use them.  David was familiar with his weapons and so are you!  God’s Word never fails!  Giants still fall in the name of God! (I Samuel 17:45-47)  David ran quickly towards the battle line to meet him!  It’s time to fight your giant!  God’s name is still powerful, enemies fall face down in His presence.  Worship, the Word, the Holy Spirit, and the armor of God is all that available to all believers.  It's provided through God alone, His name guarantees it! 

On The Straight and Narrow

My heart has been very heavy over the last few weeks, so I haven’t been writing much.  I have been reflecting, fasting, and praying about this situation.  Currently, my heart lays into millions of broken pieces about a close friend’s decision.  It’s not easy to watch your friend take unhealthy steps in her life.  Yet, as a friend I have pleaded and cried for her to realize the danger of her choices but she is ignoring my voice.  So, I have left her in only the capable hands I know-Gods.  Nevertheless, I haven’t stopped praying for the situation to change; it’s my only hope. 

Choices come with a price tag; they have consequences to pay.  God always sent a prophet to warn the people before He sent wrath but it wasn’t always heeded to.   As the prophets declared the truth, many were executed or persecuted for it.  The famous prophet Isaiah was sawed physically in half for his message.   Another prophet Jeremiah was beaten, put into prison, and falsely accused.  Tragically, our own Savior was treated disrespectfully, false accused, beaten, and crucified for sharing the message of the Father. (Matthew 21:26-38)  So, we shouldn’t be surprised about being persecuted for declaring the truth.  Jesus said, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.” (John 15:18)  It’s not always easy to preach the truth of God’s Word because it can cost us some close relationships.  As children of God our standards can’t be compromised because our standards come from God’s Word.  God sets the bar for leadership; our lives must be above reproach or blameless. We must abstain from the appearance of evil. We have to guard our hearts, our lives, and guard the vision God gives.  Ministry is a serious business because it's not only an eternal investment; it's has have eternal rewards which will be judged. (Hebrews 9:27)  It’s a sobering thought but I don’t know if the church takes it seriously anymore.   

 I Peter 4:17 “For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?”

If we truly love our families and our friends, we will tell the truth-the Gospel truth.  It’s not always easy to profess our faith but it’s our obligation to God and those we love.  Do we love our family or friends enough to share the truth whether if it’s for their salvation or to avoid a trap of the enemy?  Also, what happened to discipleship within the body of Christ?  Within the body of Christ there is going to be different maturity levels, so we must understand this.  As our bodies physically mature or even among the maturity of siblings, we understand this to be a natural process.  Nevertheless parents do correct, discipline, and guide their children so they can be prepared for the real world.  If we don’t train our children properly in our homes, we can lead them astray.  It’s the same within the body of Christ. It’s not pleasant or exciting to confront a brother or sister in sin but we must to restore them.  Restoration is always the goal but it must be done with gentleness, saturated in prayer, wise counsel sought, and in love.  We can't leave this one out: it has to be done face to face.  Oh, being confrontational is very difficult but it's Biblical.  Paul opposed Peter to his face because he was in the wrong. (Galatians 1:11)  Also, the Bible provides a direct model from Christ found in Matthew 18:15-20)  

“Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted” Galatians 6:1 

“Let a righteous man strike me--it is a kindness; let him rebuke me--it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it. Yet my prayer is ever against the deeds of evildoers” Psalm 141:5

As I tried to counsel my friend towards God’s Word, she refused it.  I didn’t counsel once but several times with no effect.  As the Lord and my husband directed me to confront her with the consequences, I was completely torn inside.  Yet, I realized if I don’t confront the situation, I am accepting it.  We must understand a powerful truth: our lives must match the Word. “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” I Timothy 4:16

Our lives must match the Word of God; there is no separation.  Sadly the church has been accused of this for far too long.  It’s time to come out and be separate from the world’s ideas, beliefs, relationships, and ways.  If we are truly children of God, we will obey.  When we try to justify our actions for disobedience to God's Word, it's called deception.  “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.” Proverbs 16:25

     God will never override our choice; He will let us decide.  Yet, He advised us of the consequences very clearly.  Out of His love a warning was given to us all.  It’s not going to be heeded by everyone, only a few. (Matthew 7:14)  We may be separated from close relationships for our choice to walk on the straight and narrow road but we are never without God.  

     As I told my children, they can't get to Heaven from my relationship with God; it's their own personal choice. We are not responsible for the choices of others but we are to be a voice of truth.  We are to preach the truth in love!  If we don't preach or extend a hand of grace to others, our faith is meaningless.  If we want to touch the lives of people; we will have to touch their heart.  Faith moves mountains but love moves people to a relationship with God.      

          

       

     

Pain Brings Healing

Pain doesn't discriminate; it comes to all who live and breathe.  No one will escape pain upon this earth, even our precious Savior suffered.  The nailed hands of Jesus don't only prove He understands our scars, He paid for our healing.  No matter how deep the scar; He can heal the soul.  As the painful memories surface, we can feel the pain re-surface or seem it's intensified to blind our faith.  The pain is so present, real, and overwhelming to our mind, it can causes us to question if God is present.  "Where is God?" Do I even matter to Him?" "Or  anyone?"  "Does God even know my name?"   If we are not careful, our feelings can control our lives.  It's not wrong to express the anger, frustration, or sorrow before God.  All of our feelings need to be worked through, so we can be made whole.  The book of Psalms truly reveals the heart of the writer, so it reveals the raw emotions we all experience in life.  Whether afraid, angry, burdened, or uncertain the writer expresses their honest heartfelt emotions to God.  The Psalmist was completely honest before God, he withheld nothing.  

In Psalm 13, David expresses the anguish of his heart, he was weary of the affliction. He felt forgotten (v 1); abandoned by God (v 1); Ignored (v 1); wrestled with thoughts (v 2); sorrow (v 2); and defeated (v 2, 4)   

All of David's feelings arose due to the feeling afflicted by King Saul who was savagely pursing his life.  Saul's jealousy for David caused a lengthy persecution lasting about eight or nine years (1 Samuel 27:1)  David openly expresses his emotions, the torment, and desire for relief from the hand of Saul to God.  He was weary from the length battle but God never left his side.  Besides David expressing his emotions, he expressed his faith to God.  He expressed his faith by turning to God (v 1); hope for restoration (v 3); trust in His unfailing love (v 5); rejoice at His rescue (v 3) called out to God (v 3); praised Him (v 6)

Trials have no set time period but they do have an expiration date.  Our pain doesn't have to keep us down, we can overcome it.  We can trust in God's unfailing love; He will hold us, mend us, and complete us.  We don't have to ignore the pain; we can express it.  It doesn't mean we are weak; it means we are human.  Our Savior understands our sorrow, our temptations, and intercedes in our behalf.  "Many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers from them ALL." Psalm 34:19

All season of our lives have value; a valuable purpose under Heaven.  Our character is sharpened, our faith renewed, and watching the majesty of God to bring good out of it.  When the pain seems dark; hold unto the light.  "You intended to harm me, but GOD INTENDED IT FOR GOOD to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. (Genesis 50:20)

Press In To Press Onward

Excuses, intimidation, and fear are holding my feet firmly planted on the ground.  As the mountain stands in front of me, I can’t help but stare at it.  Regardless of where I turn, my mind can’t escape its presence.   How do I overcome this mountain? When I received this vision from God, I was very careful who I shared it with.  Nevertheless, we sometimes need godly counsel to direct us, so I spoke with my pastor.  What he shared with me wasn’t a profound mystery but it’s keep me on the path.   “Tina, it sounds like God gave you an elephant.”  At first, I was very startled by his comment.  Yet, he said, “Do you know how you defeat an elephant?”  I replied, “No, sir.”  “An elephant can only be defeated, one bite at a time.” 

Well, I admit this elephant wasn’t very tasty; he is causing me to stretch myself with each bite.  God’s call is a wonderful gift upon our lives’, so it should be cherished.  Nevertheless, the call will bring lessons from God.  All of the lessons are for our benefit to develop our character, our relationship with God, and to develop our leadership. When it seems as if the “elephant’s biting back” it’s time to listen to what the Spirit is saying.   If we don’t have a listening ear to God’s voice, we can’t be guided.  If we refuse to listen, God will use whatever is necessary to get our attention.   God desires for our lives to be fruitful, so He has to prune the dead ends for the vine to have a chance to grow.

Upon entering a conference for church planters, I was so excited to begin.  Excited to brainstorm, met new people, and develop plans to fulfill God’s call.  What an opportunity to grow and develop!  Oh, I recognized an area of personal development-my insecurity.  So, as the ugly monster stares me in the eyes I have a choice to either surrender or fight.  We can’t overcome a weakness; if we don’t recognize it.  Recognize what is your weakness but don’t allow it be your complete focus.  If you only focus on your weakness, you will never exercise your strengths.  Although my weakness may not match yours; it doesn’t mean we don’t face them.  Giants will come into your life to speak defeat, fear, and taunt your faith. The only way to defeat the giant is RESTING in who God is, meditate on God's past victories in your life, and attack the giant. Once the giant is hit with God's power, he will fall. Yet, we have to cut off his voice; it's time to remember to WHOM we belong.

What is your weakness?  What are your strengths?  Realize Satan wants to minimize your worth, God wants to maximize it.  As the conference continued I realized how intimated I was to share my ideas, overwhelmed with the responsibilities, and wondering if I could complete this vision.  During those difficult moments the Holy Spirit keep saying, “Press Into Me”.  Also, this passage of scripture keep coming into my mind, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14

If we are to finish the race, we have to persevere to inherit the promise.  “For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.” Hebrews 10:38 All of this pain doesn't come without a price; it will stretch us.  God will reward us for our faithfulness, He sees our hard work and dedication.  A harvest is promised if we don't give up.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 

We will never know the power of victory if we never face adversity, weakness, or trials.  Adversity builds our faith, weakness builds our trust, and trials build our character, so they are completing the work of Christ.  Whatever we face, we don’t face it alone.  Run to the Rock!  “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2

If we are to complete God’s call upon our lives, we have to press in to Christ to press onward.  Weakness is no excuse, inadequacies have no place, and fear can’t prevent a heart fixed on Christ.  Fix your eyes on Christ, so the weakness can’t trip you.  Even if it does trip us, Christ will carry us.  Yet, whatever is causing us to trip, we need to leave it behind.  We can't reach forward if we are tangled up with sin or anything causing us to lose focus.  “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1

PURPLE SOCKS

     Since I was a little girl, purple has always been my favorite color.  Purple is still feminine but it’s not so “girly” as pink.  When I think of pink, it reminds of the little girls with pig-tails and ruffles who are afraid to get dirty.  Throughout my childhood, I was a tomboy until I recognized this cute boy at school.  Only in my adolescence, I discovered make-up and curling irons.  It was a complete challenge to transform my hair but I really learned more about myself.  Something unique most probably don’t know, I enjoy looking beautiful for my husband but I enjoy getting my hands dirty.  If you want to knock down a wall of your house, remove tile, or remodel, I am your girl.  I can make a mean lasagna, bake cookies, and love to fix stuff.  Most of the major tools in my husband’s toolbox, I can advise what it is.  It’s funny though.  Although, I am married to a maintance man, I usually fix it myself; my husband’s a major procrastinator.  It’s a personality trait of his; I am trying to be patient with. 

     As I have matured, I have learned it’s not about the great hair styles or wearing mascara, it was about learning what makes me beautiful.  As I re-discovered myself, I learned a precious truth, God made me precious.  I am an original.  Although we are all different, I can still be unique.  My worship, my service, and life can still be a precious fragrance to offer God, it’s my own.

     At this moment in my life, I expected to be fulfilling God’s call upon my life.  So many nights, I have stayed awake to imagine the millions of souls who found Christ or were healed during a service.  Just in awe, of the Spirit moving so strong all who are sick start to walk, run, or see for the first time.  So, many stories I have read of past revivals or those who walked in the Spirit with such an anointing, it’s creating a hunger for a deep move of God.  Before I leave this earth, my prayer is to see God move as I have read about.  Also, to see all of God’s written promises fulfilled in my life.  What a beautiful moment, I can’t wait.

     Although I clearly know my destination, it’s the overwhelming details to get there.  When will I get there?  As my children scream in the back of the car, “Are we there yet?”  “No, so stop asking me!” “When we arrive, I will tell you.”  Our children have to trust us to arrive to the vacation destination; they can’t arrive on their abilities.  Well, it’s the same with God.  We can’t fulfill God’s desires for our lives on our own abilities; we have to ride together to the location.  God is preparing us; we have to allow Him to drive.

     Recently, I was allowing the enemy to speak a terrible lie into my heart, I was a failure.  On Facebook, letters, and some phone conversations, I have learned about my friends who are successful and fulfilling God’s call.  It seems all of the doors are opening very quickly, while I am just starting.  Yes, we shouldn’t compare ourselves but I admit it, I did.  All of the voices of insecurities, doubt, and fear started to overcome my faith.  As I started to withdraw, my dearest friend confronted me about it.  She quickly realized the lie, so I could start walking the truth.  She is a precious gem, one of God’s precious daughters.  She challenged me to write all of God’s promises or goals in my journal.  As a declaration to God, I will trust until it’s complete.

 After the morning of our conversation, I did something very daring.  My work uniform requires a certain dress code; we are to wear white socks.  Instead, of the normal daily attire, I wore my favorite purple socks, as a reminder, God’s promise is coming.  When you think of the color purple, what’s the first thing to come to mind?  When I think of purple, I think of royalty.  Will I ever be a princess?  Although I have a prince, he isn’t from a royal family.  My husband will always be the love of my life.  He will always be, “my handsome” who captured my heart. 

     Galatians 3:29, "If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."  Nevertheless, my heart belongs to the King of Kings, so by the blood, I am a princess.  Galatians 3:6-7, "Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father".  So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir."  I am an heir to the throne of grace who has access to all of the richest treasures of Heaven.  The promise doesn’t become a dream until God grants it.  So, my King declared it, I wait in expectation.    

    

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Cornered But Not Defeated

Satan will always try to paint us into a corner.  As the walls close in, he will speak words of fear, doubt, and make us believe our situations are uncertain.  Although we may be in the corner, we still have options of whose report we will believe.  It’s the test of unshakeable faith that will always defeat the enemy’s tactics.  Rest assured, our faith will be tested by the fire but it’s always refined by it.  Life will bring enormous circumstances to make us afraid; it’s only faith in God that will overcome it.  Our faith in God has to be unshakeable; we will not surrender to defeat.  It doesn’t mean we aren’t afraid in the midst of the situation; we rest in who God is.  Life is full of impossible situations until God arrives on the scene.  Nothing is impossible with God, absolutely nothing. 

God is searching for something deep within your heart, he is looking for faith.  On the whole earth, the Father of God is searching for faith.  Luke 18:8b, “However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth.”  As Rahab tied the scarlet chord on her house, it waved for all to see.  She trusted in the God of the Israelites, so she was spared destruction.  May my faith wave in the air for God to see, I believe in you.  Regardless of the calamity around me, I will rest in God.   Abraham, the father of faith, was credited righteous for his faith.  Only through the power of God would Abraham have a son, the one promised to him.  At his elderly age, it doesn’t look promising of a child to be born.  Abraham was married to a beautiful woman but she was elderly and barren. 

Hebrews 11:11, "Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judge him faithful who had promised."

     Regardless of who you study in scripture, God spoke promises to many of the great patriarchs.  It wasn’t always easy to trust to see those promises fulfilled, they were tested.  "I am not a failure for going through the test; I am a success for coming out of the fire unharmed."  STAND YOUR GROUND, and AFTER YOU HAVE DONE EVERYTHING, TO STAND.

     So, what’s the test you are facing?  Weakness, waiting for the promise, sickness, difficult job situations, or finances, it’s no match for God.  Hebrews 11:33, “who through faith conquered kingdoms, administrated justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who become powerful in battle and routed foreign armies.”

Don’t think it strange what you are encountering right now, God has you.  All of trials show the power to the world what is sustaining you-Jesus.  My life hasn’t been except from trials, I am facing some might ones at this moment.  Although my enemy has me cornered with worries about some impossible situations, God isn’t surprised or afraid.  My Heavenly Father knows my complete life story, He was already prepared.  The opponent has been defeated numerous times; the cross destroyed all of his works.  Nothing can stand in my way, my faith in God overcomes it all-the salvation of my soul.