Pour It at His Feet

John 12:3-8 (AMP)

3Mary took a pound of ointment of pure liquid nard [a rare perfume] that was very expensive, and she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped them with her hair. And the whole house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
4But Judas Iscariot, the one of His disciples who was about to betray Him, said,
5Why was this perfume not sold for 300 denarii [a year's wages for an ordinary workman] and that [money] given to the poor (the destitute)?
6Now he did not say this because he cared for the poor but because he was a thief; and having the bag (the money box, the purse of the Twelve), he took for himself what was put into it [pilfering the collections].
7But Jesus said, Let her alone. It was [intended] that she should keep it for the time of My preparation for burial. [She has kept it that she might have it for the time of My embalming.]
8You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.


What are you holding onto? What are you saving up for? In the Body of Christ, so many of us are sitting on our treasures. For some, it’s money, but for most, it’s time, gifts, talents and even faith.

Due to “church hurt”, we are often reluctant to pour out of ourselves, but God is calling for that sacrifice in this season. We are not being asked to pour out unto men, but unto the Father. Just as Mary poured expensive oil on the feet of Jesus, He is waiting for our sacrifices to be laid at His feet.

We have grown so accustomed to “working on ministry” that for many of us, even that is not yielded to God. There are more churches who preach the gospel of “I” and “My” than that of Jesus Christ. Yes, even our ministries must be laid at the feet of Jesus Christ. That means that we must yield some things to Him. Most importantly, we must TRUST HIM. This is not the season to do it all yourself. This is not the time to depend on you, your plans, your paycheck, your gifts or even your abilities. God is looking for those who will once again yield to Him and give all for His glory.

In 2 Samuel 24:24, David declares that he will not sacrifice anything unto God that doesn’t cost Him something. Our thinking, it seems, is that we won’t give up anything that has cost us something. We work so hard on great edifices, TV and radio broadcasts, grand conferences and banquets, but we pull them further and further away from God. We want to operate in a spirit of control, but God wants the throne in the tabernacle.

Is all our hard work really for God and His glory? If it were, we would allow Him to move. We would allow His people to operate in their gifts and callings. We would not operate in a spirit of control. We would obey the voice of God and move by the Spirit, rather than learned behavior. We would live by faith – not by habit. Just because it’s related to church doesn’t mean it’s building the Church. Just because it references God doesn’t mean it brings Him glory.

We know that entertainment draws the crowd, and the crowd pays the bills, but God wants that church poured at HIS feet. We know that lying from the pulpit brings the faithful contributions, but God wants to provide the increase. He wants the doctrine laid at HIS feet. We know that organized, traditional religion promises church growth and recognition, but God wants you to lay the tradition and the education at HIS feet. That thing that you have caused to flourish in the flesh, will you exchange it for the supernatural in this season? The center of your pride and joy – that great accomplishment that carries your name – will you allow God to undo it as He sees fit? That which has costs you so much – will you give it up for the glory of God?

No flesh shall get the glory. Humble yourselves in the sight of God, and He will lift you up. Selah.

The Day I Told God "YES" (Repost)

God gave me this poem a few years ago, but I always find it encouraging. It was a blessing to me today...


After a long day of hard work and labor
I finally got home and sat down at the kitchen table
I looked up to the ceiling and immediately began to pray
Father, I love you so much, but I've had a hard day!

Not only that Lord, but I'm tired and I'm weak
I work so hard to please You, yet my life seems so bleak
I know You're a provider, but to pay my bills I'm not able
I want to represent You, but others see me as unstable

I know that You're a healer, but my body aches with pain
I know I must have faith, so I constantly pray in Jesus' name
Yet when the day is over and all things come to an end
I sit here at this table, and cry out to You, once again

God, I know that You are faithful, it's not you who's failing, no
But what is wrong with me, that at Your command, I just can't go?
Why does it seem my life is just one struggle after another
And not only me Lord, but the same for my sisters and brothers?

A holy life I live, and a witness to You I try to be
Yes, I make mistakes daily, but I'm obedient to what You ask of me
I preach the word and speak out boldly against all sin
Yet the devils of the world prosper, and I simply struggle, once again

Let me interrupt right here, my Father said to me
When you said “yes” to do my will, how did you think your life would be?
You promised be a COMPLETE sacrifice - mind, body and soul
That means that from time to time, you may not quite feel whole

Job, the prophets, and even My Son felt desperate from time to time
Yet they all remembered the day they said, “Father, let Your will be mine.”
Don't ever feel I've neglected you, or that I don't hear your call
But know that your tests, your trials and scars prevent someone else from a fall

You've been ordained to complete a work for Me, though it may seem hard
The Church has lied to so many, promising ministry will make you a star
In fact, I demand a servant’s sacrifice, hard work and sometimes tears
Yes, I require your entire life - your time, your money and all your years

Death, debt and heartache may come, you may lose all you've got
Following Me is no easy task, I require ALL, not just a lot
A sacrifice is completely burnt up, until even it's composition is changed
Even so you will lose your very identity, operating only in My name

Remember, my child, what you said to me when I asked if you'd give all?
Oh Lord, Did I say "yes" to You? I believe that's what I recall
Yes, you said you’d obey My every command, to please Me in all you do
Godliness with contentment, my child, is what you'll need to get through

So suffer yet a little while, and when this life is gone
You'll see Me and my Son, face to face, pleased and saying 'Well done!'
And tell all the others who are struggling there - martyrs some have become
When one says "yes" to my will and way, it's a struggle not to succumb

Be encouraged knowing your sacrifice is certainly not in vain
For in this life and that to come you have so much to gain
Worship is a lifestyle, not just singing, dancing and prayer
But what you give Me everyday, what you're willing to lose and to share

So I pondered over all God said, and I suddenly felt relieved
Remembering my actual purpose in life is to help others to believe
To understand the Father must come first, even through every test
I guess this is really what I signed up for, the day I told God "yes"

Spiritual Warfare is REAL and Upon Us

To GOD be the glory!

This is a word of encouragement to those of you who have been dealing with very real and tangible physical ailments. Over the last few weeks, many of you have experienced aches and pains, particularly in your joints and bones as well as severe headaches.

God has revealed that a spiritual attack has been released on the Body of Christ, especially those who have made a commitment to preach truth, in the face of politics, religion and tradition. The plan of the enemy is to have you worry and visit one doctor after another, only for them not to know what's wrong. The plan of the enemy is to stress you until to stop concentrating on preaching God's word... until you begin to even question your own integrity.

I hear the questions... How can I pray for others to be healed, when I cannot heal myself? Why are my children suffering these "mysterious" aches and pains? What is it coming from? What have I missed? What have I done wrong?

This attack has angered me in the spirit. As a watchman of God, I am very serious about sharing with the saints any attack that I see in the spirit. People of God, stay on the wall. Remember Job... Remember Joseph. God has NOT left you in this season, so praise God through this and remain faithful. All things are still working for your good. Command your flesh to get in line with the word of the Lord. Most importantly, do NOT give up. Do NOT slow down. Continue crying loud and pressing through.

Be encouraged and be healed!

Are You Tired Yet?

Numbers 25:6-13 (Amplified Bible)
6 And behold, one of the Israelites came and brought to his brethren a Midianite woman in the sight of Moses and of all the congregation of Israel while they were weeping at the door of the Tent of Meeting [over the divine judgment and the punishment].
7 And when Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, saw it, he rose up from the midst of the congregation and took a spear in his hand
8 And went after the man of Israel into the inner room and thrust both of them through, the man of Israel and the woman through her body. Then the [smiting] plague was stayed from the Israelites.
9 Nevertheless those who died in the [smiting] plague were 24,000.
10 And the Lord said to Moses,
11 Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, has turned my wrath away from the Israelites, in that he was jealous with My jealousy among them, so that I did not consume the Israelites in My jealousy.
12 Therefore say, Behold, I give to Phinehas the priest My covenant of peace.
13 And he shall have it, and his descendants after him, the covenant of an everlasting priesthood, because he was jealous for his God and made atonement for the Israelites.

How much sin can we see and tolerate in the Body of Christ? Phinehas is the grandson of a priest – one who does not have a title, but understands his heritage and lineage in God. As I read this Scripture, I could imagine the same scenario in modern terms.

There is pestilence in the land. A curse has come upon God’s people because of sin. As the congregation gathers to pray and cry out to God, one named Phinehas sees sin literally walk into the door and decides to take a stand. Oftentimes, in the Body of Christ, it’s so easy for us to turn away. We use prayer and fasting as an excuse not to act or rebuke.

Phinehas decides to react differently. Instead of crying another tear or screaming another moan of lamentation, he takes up a weapon and attacks the sin the midst of the act. He attacked the sin at its root, and killed the perpetrators. Because of his actions, which would be considered nothing more than rebellion in this season, the Bible tells us that God stayed the plague and gave Phinehas the covenant of peace. Not only that, but he has now established an everlasting priesthood.

People of God, this is a season when God is looking for ACTION. Some of us are praying and fasting when God has already requested action and given us the power to resolve the issue. There are some natural things God is looking for from a people who are hiding behind spiritual things. If we would be honest, how can we handle spiritual battles when we cannot even respond to a natural stimulus? Our weapons are not carnal, but our influence is. Oh, who will stand for God after the service is over? When the praise and the worship has ceased, who will make a difference in the world? God is looking to establish a covenant, but He wants His people to DO SOMETHING.

Selah!

So, are you tired yet? Are you tired of church as usual? Are you tired of the same “church folk” mentality? We go to service, we name the name of Christ, yet there is no change. There is a form of religion, but we deny the power thereof, even the power that has been placed within us to make a change. There is a call to holiness, and the TRUTH must come forth in the Body of Christ.

We claim people are cursed because of their refusal to tithe, yet we say nothing about the sin. The Word of God tells us in Deuteronomy 30:19 that we have a choice – blessing or curse. We must cry loud about SIN in general. Going to church and tithing will not reverse the curse of sin. Our priorities must be set in order. Holiness is right. We cannot continue to blink at sin. A remnant must speak out to raise a holy nation before our God.

Are you tired yet? Are you tired enough to take action and make a change? Are the older women ready to train and teach the younger, according to the word of God? Are we willing to put down political correctness, even in the church, and strive for biblical correctness?

We have been given power over sin. Are we tired enough to use it? Then, shall the plague be lifted from the people of God! Take a stand, people of God, and reclaim your Father’s house. We allow too much in the house of God. We allow sin to dictate when and how we will worship, what we say, how we will move. Is anybody tired of it? Is anybody fed up? Is the Holy Spirit vexed within you yet? Amen.

God is so faithful...

I must say, this worship songs describes exactly how I feel this morning. My God is so faithful. Hallelujah!

Paul Wilbur Worthy

Worthy is our God!!! Hallelujah!

Coming to Greensboro, NC - 2 Days of Abundance!

SHAKE THIS CITY

presents

"Water Me, Lord!"

2 Days of Abundance

Prophet Kimberly Turner

Shake the Nations Church International

Dallas, TX

Apostle Monica Sweeney

Shake the Nations Church International

Dallas, TX

Evangelist Georgianna Turner

Belview Baptist Church

Haw River, NC

June 19 - June 20, 2009

7:00PM and 10:00AM

Bryan Park Conference Center

6275 Bryan Park Road

Greensboro, North Carolina

The "HUSH" Anointing

Whether we want to admit it or not, as women of God, we have a habit of talking a bit too much. While it's difficult to remain silent until God gives the instruction to speak, this is something we must really think about and practice.

Proverbs 17:28
Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

Wow! Many times, we feel disrespected. We feel that people don't recognize our anointings or respect our positions in ministry. Well, I believe the ENTIRE word of God is true. I can speak from experience and say that oftentimes, this disrespect stems from being too "common."

By no means am I implying that we are to be haughty or prideful because we are called. However, we are accountable - to God first, then to men. As instruments of God (especially those of us who are prophets), we must remember that the enemy will use our mouths against us. Why? Blessings and cursing should not flow from the same fountain. Our words often negate the power God has placed in our mouths. Death and life are in the power of the tongue.

When we talk too much, people lose respect. It's a natural reaction. When we run our mouths too much in the world, the people are not as attentive when truth comes across. Our integrity rests on our words and our actions. Amen?

Let's be careful and wise about the words we speak, realizing that EVERY IDLE WORD SHALL BE JUDGED according to the word of God. We must also realize that a good ambassador is a trusted servant. As our words become fewer, they will also grow to be more impactful and less prone to error.

Selah...

Why?

Over the last few hours, I have seen numerous petitions, by email, calling for the dismissal or forced resignation of Fr. John Jenkins, the President of the University of Notre Dame. The reason: he invited President Barack Obama as the commencement speaker, and President Obama made comments that some thought to be "pro-abortion."

In addition to this, I've seen petitions to remove members of the clergy due to their beliefs in same-sex marriage. Why?

As Christians, our job is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Forgive my bluntness, but what good does it do to attack people we disagree with? Does that somehow make us feel victorious?

What about their souls? Instead of trying to take people's jobs, why can't we just be proactive in prayer and evangelism? If we were spreading the Gospel like we should all along, we would not be dealing with these issues anyway.

If we do take their jobs for supporting abortion or same-sex marriage, what's next? What if the "church" began moving to fire liars, fornicators, masturbators? Well, we won't sign a petition for that. Why? Because too many "church folk" are involved in those things. What about slander and fraud? No way the church would want that exposed. Too many ministries love their gossip and enjoy swindling money out of God's people.

As I have been reading and praying about these things over the last few days, God has just quickened a righteous indignation within me. We cannot judge others for our lack of true ministry! Whether we like it or not, people have a right to choose salvation... or not. God is not a respector of persons, and He supports free will. We may disagree, but love must prevail. We are ambassadors, sent to spread the truth. Our job is not to slaughter in anger, because we've missed our spiritual assignments.

Amen?

The Illegitimate Child Must Die (Lesson on Submission and Obedience)

I enjoyed the fellowship on this weekend with Apostle CM Paige and the Fresh Wind Fresh Fire Apostolic Church in Farmville, NC. This body of believers truly shared the love of God during their Prophetic Conference on Accountability. It was such a blessing, and lives were changed. Kingdom builders are coming forth! Hallelujah!

PROPHETIC FLOW - May 31, 2009

PROPHETIC FLOW

One Night Only

Breath of Life International Church

Prophet Joy Allen, Host Pastor

3763 Junction Blvd, Raleigh NC

Special Guest: Prophet Celeste Humphries Stevens

Call 919-448-8198 or visit www.breathoflifeintl.org for more information.

I Won't Complain

I just had to share this testimony this evening, and I pray it will be a blessing to you. So often, we say "I won't complain," but mean it only as a cliche or a leading phrase to spark questions and gather sympathy from our audience. In this society and this economy, it is so easy to forget how blessed we really are. It's easy to take God's many blessings for granted and concentrate more on the things we lack.

Yesterday, I met a new friend. This woman of God is 96 years old, and has been given less than 6 months to live. When I first walked into her hospital room, she said in a loud and jovial voice, "Who are you? Sit down. Make yourself comfortable." Then, she just began to talk. She was so excited to share her testimony. She told me tales of her days as an army nurse. She told me about her humble childhood and the days she spent with her siblings, who have all passed on. She spoke of her mother and her father, and repeated "Thank the Lord" after almost every phrase. Then she would giggle and say, "And I love them all, Miss Joy, I love them all. And I love you too! I love everybody!"

As I sat and laughed with my new friend, I just began to feel tears running down my face. This woman never married and never had children. She told me how blessed I was when she asked me about my own children. Then, she asked for my husband's name. When I responded with "Chris", she said, "You'd better treat him right, or I'll come and steal him." Of course, she then giggled and said, "Thank the Lord!"

This woman could barely breathe. She's not able to walk or sit up on her own. When she asked me to rub some lotion on her itching arm, I saw her skin literally rotting. Her arms were covered with boils and mold. I prayed as I rubbed the lotion on her arms. She grabbed my hand, and said, "Miss Joy, I want you to know that I thank you, and I love you. Thank the Lord!"

I left that room with many feelings stirring inside of me. I prayed for that woman of God, and as I prayed, it was as if I could hear her praying for me. She had a joy that could only come from God. When I arrived at her hospital bed, I was tired. I was worried about the bills, about the church... trying to figure out when I would catch up on my studies from school. Yet, she reminded me of the things that are most important - love and thankgiving to God.

I must admit that every time I thought of complaining today, her sweet face entered my mind. I thank God for this friend, who is full of wisdom and joy. I thank God for a woman who refuses to complain, but will always proclaim "Thank the Lord!"

Breath of Life International Church (Pastor Joy Allen)

To GOD be the glory!

Breath of Life International Church

is now meeting at our new location

To GOD be the glory!

3763 Junction Boulevard

Raleigh, NC 27603

Come by and worship with us!

Worship Service

Sundays at 11:00 am

Latreia Bible Study

Tuesdays at 7:00pm

Friday Night FIRE Prayer and Revival

Last Friday of Each Month at 7:00pm

We are committed to helping you find, follow and fulfill your destiny in God!

(919) 448-8198

www.breathoflifeintl.org

Calling All Shepherds!

To GOD be the glory!

I thank God for the conference call that took place on Wednesday night. While I was late on the line due to travel, I was blessed by the prayers and testimonies I was able to hear. Most of all, it was such a blessing to hear God's women standing up in unity, praying and encouraging one another. God is well pleased!

I wanted, not only to remind everyone to join us on the line each Wednesday night, but to share the word of the Lord that was shared on the line.

First, God said the He has NOT changed His mind! Many of you have been ordained, commissioned and sent forth. Yet, you have not felt the freedom to move as God has led. In this hour, it is time to go forth! Be encouraged! Despite the hardships you may have been through... Despite being misunderstood... Despite not feeling "sure" in the things of God, He has NOT changed His mind, and He has NOT forgotten you. God is calling you forth! You did run well. "Who did hinder you?", says the Lord (Gal 5:7).

Now is not the time to be discouraged. There are people that need YOU to walk in your ministry and operate in your call.

Jeremiah 23
1WOE TO the shepherds (the civil leaders) who destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasturing! says the Lord.
2Therefore thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, concerning the shepherds who care for and feed My people: You have scattered My flock and driven them away and have not visited and attended to them; behold, I will visit and attend to you for the evil of your doings, says the Lord.
3And I will gather the remnant of My flock out of all the countries to which I have driven them and will bring them again to their folds and pastures; and they will be fruitful and multiply.
4And I will set up shepherds over them who will feed them. And they will fear no more nor be dismayed, neither will any be missing or lost, says the Lord.


Who are the shepherds? YOU are they! Yes, we have seen the season of those who have been hurt, deceived and mislead by those who have scattered the flock. These are those that need the remnant to stand in this season. God's people have been abused and neglected. Now, the remnant must stand up and obey.

shep⋅herd  /ˈʃɛpərd/ [shep-erd]
–noun
1.a person who herds, tends, and guards sheep.
2.a person who protects, guides, or watches over a person or group of people.
3.a member of the clergy.
4.the Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
5.sheepdog.
–verb (used with object)
6.to tend or guard as a shepherd: to shepherd the flock.
7.to watch over carefully.


A shepherd is simply one who leads and one who CARES. God has given you, women of God, a heart for souls. Do you not realize that others are following you? People are looking to you for comfort and leadership. Stop running and do what God has called you to do. He has NOT changed His mind.

Your title doesn't matter. Your level of education does not matter. Shepherd and mother those who have been assigned to you. Many have been scattered, yet God is pulling them back in. YOU will feed them, that they will not be lost.

Selah.


Women of God, join us on the line each Wednesday night at 9:00 PM EST. Dial 1-219-509-8333, Access code 616400.

Prophecy that Leads to Death

Deuteronomy 13:1-5 (AMP)
1If a prophet arises among you, or a dreamer of dreams, and gives you a sign or a wonder,
2And the sign or the wonder he foretells to you comes to pass, and if he says, Let us go after other gods--gods you have not known--and let us serve them,
3You shall not listen to the words of that prophet or to that dreamer of dreams. For the Lord your God is testing you to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your [mind and] heart and with your entire being.
4You shall walk after the Lord your God and [reverently] fear Him, and keep His commandments and obey His voice, and you shall serve Him and cling to Him.
5But that prophet or that dreamer of dreams shall be put to death, because he has talked rebellion and turning away from the Lord your God, Who brought you out of the land of Egypt and redeemed you out of the house of bondage; that man has tried to draw you aside from the way in which the Lord your God commanded you to walk. So shall you put the evil away from your midst.


What message are you listening to? Who is the prophet that speaks into your ear? God’s people are entertaining the mouths of those who encourage covenant with idols.

Oftentimes, when we speak of false prophets, we reference only those who prophesy a thing that does not come to pass. Unfortunately, we don’t understand fully what the false prophet is. Did not Isaiah, Jeremiah, Nehemiah and many others die before their prophecies came to pass? Were they false? Of course not!

When God addressed His people in the Book of Deuteronomy, he spoke of a false prophet whose “predictions” were accurate. It was not the word that made them false, but the motive. The prophet and his word were competing with God.

There is a warning before the people of God. Beware of those prophets who prophesy in order to create idols. It is so much more common than we would want to believe. Let’s just make it plain…

“Give $1000 and He will bless your family.”
“Run around the church three times, He will heal your body.”
“Throw $500 at your Pastor’s feet, and when they hands on you, God will save your family.”

We all hear and see such things, but when they take place, who really gets the glory? Does it line up with the word of God? Not at all.

In the church, we are too busy entertaining people. Preachers, pastors, prophets… they are getting the glory, not God! The glory, instead, is going to flesh – not only to a man or woman, but also to one’s own desire to receive. We must be so careful about seeking prophecy that is conditioned to increase our natural possessions. When we do what we do only in order to receive something, our focus is wrong!

In the first chapter of Malachi, as God begins to rebuke the priests, He asks who will worship Him for nought. In other words, who will worship God just because He deserves the glory? Who will praise Him because He’s worthy? Who will do the righteous thing just because it’s the right thing to do?

Of course, God blesses us in our obedience. Yet, if our motive is to receive something, that condition becomes an idol. Beware of the prophets, especially in this season, that prophecy on the conditions of what you will receive rather than what God has instructed, according to His word.

Selah.

Time to Stand

Timothy 4:2-4

2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.
3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.


This week, God has dealt with me, primarily in dreams about the readiness of the Body of Christ. God is revealing that a great season of testing is upon us. This is a season when God's people MUST know who they serve and why. As leaders, we must prepare the people to stand in adversity. The season of "protecting" the sheep will be challenged. Temptation "in private" is at a new level. Spiritual warfare is peaking. Who will stand?

For too long, God's people have been sheltered with a form of religion, but denied the power thereof. We've emphasized those things that please the flesh, and neglected the weightier spiritual matters. NOW is the time of accountability. NOW is the season for boot camp, in preparation for the war to come.

People of God, we must ask ourselves - "Where does our personal relationship with God actually stand?" Outside of the church service, how much of the Word do we really know? In the face of temptation, when the others are not around, am I really able to stand? Religion is going to be challenged. Another season of great exposure is before us, and the spirit of anti-christ is indeed active among us - even within our church walls. The enemy is strategically placed and ready to challenge those who claim to be the children of God. How many of us are fully equipped?

The plan of action is this - the people of God MUST fast and pray. We MUST know the Word. There is no longer an opportunity to squeeze by and barely make it. Your relationship with God MUST be solid. No more depending on the pastor or a family member to cover with their righteousness. The biggest thing God is revealing - CHURCH WORK cannot cover TRUE MINISTRY. Too many of us are hiding behind being busy. Busy is not equivalent to ministry. Get in place. Do what God has called and ordained you to do.

You will be tested, and that very soon. Selah.

So, SPEAK UP!

Amos 3:6-8
6 Shall a trumpet be blown in the city, and the people not be afraid? shall there be evil in a city, and the LORD hath not done it?
7 Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.
8 The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy?


So many have questions in this season. What is God doing? Why is He allowing all "this" to happen? When will it end? Will we ever come out?

The Father would have me remind you today that is is still in control and He is fully aware of all that is taking place. In the same manner, He has set an order. That order is to speak through His prophets.

This is a season when God's people must be free. Walk in the call wherein you have been called. This is NOT the season to walk in religion, but BE OBEDIENT. Stop allowing "religion" to hold you back from godly obedience.

We are well equipped. God has ordained and sent forth. Have we forgotten the ministry of reconciliation to which we've all been called? Many are crying out for God to say something. God is saying, "I have already spoken. Yet, my people do not proclaim what I have instructed."

People of God, our Father does not lie. Open your mouth and cry out in boldness. YOU have a message that many are waiting on. When you fail to speak what thus saith the Lord, YOU cause others to doubt God.

Ezekiel was asked a question. God asked him if the dead bones could live. Then, God did something interesting. Instead of reviving the bones, He instructed the prophet to speak life into them. God has not stopped working, but He desires to work through you. SPEAK UP! Proclaim the Word of the Lord! Death and life are in the power of the tongues, so use yours to bring forth life in the dead situation.

Selah.

Do You Feel the Urgency?

This is a quick message of encouragement to the people of God...

God has been "shaking" up some of you. You feel anxious, in a sense, but you are nervous about what is going to happen. The Father wants you to know this is He. He is shaking you for a season of spiritual activity such as you have not experienced before.

People of God, we have work to do! For too long, many of us have been comfortable and lazy. We are "busy" in the natural, but still in the spirit realm. Wake up. Stir up the gifts that are inside of you. God is placing many of you in a position of discomfort, but this is different. It's not pain. It's not tribulation. It's just STRANGE. Obey in this season. God is trying to get your attention. Count the costs and do whatever it takes.

This is the season to SEEK the Lord. Close your closet and pray. Fast and cry out to God. He WANTS you to seek Him. The answers will not come as easily as they once did. You must launch out! You must sacrifice.

The "strange" dreams... The "strange" changes in your body... The "strange" urgency to seek your enemies for forgiveness... The "strange" way you have been worshipping... God is doing a new thing! Trust Him.

Hallelujah!

It's Really NOT Your Fault - Get FREE!

Why me? We often find ourselves asking God this very question. God has a word of encouragement for those who have questioned Him concerning the unfortunate things that have happened in your life. Perhaps you were abused or molested. Maybe your parents were not the greatest. In fact, they may not have even been present. Maybe you grew up in a poor household or were born with some type of disease. Whatever the case, you ask God, “Why me?” “What did I do to deserve such a plight?”

Last Sunday, God spoke to me very clearly about this very thing. At the onset of John 9, we see Jesus dealing with the same genre of questions in reference to a blind man.

1And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.
2And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?
3Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.

Because the man had an infirmity, the disciples’ first thought was that his condition must be punishment for some wrongdoing. Quite the contrary! Jesus explains in verse 3 that his infirmity had one person – that the works of God would be manifest in him.

In 1 Corinthians 10:13, Paul gives an assurance to the church at Corinth. That assurance is that God will not allow us to deal with more than what we can bear. So, consider this:

If God allowed you to deal with it, it’s only because He strengthened you enough to get through it! In addition to that, it’s not your fault because IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU!!! I know that is blunt, but it is indeed true for many who are carrying guilt for things they could not have controlled. It was never about you. You were being used of God to bring Him glory, that He would be made manifest in you! Hallelujah!!!

Have you ever considered that the abuser was only being used so God could shape your testimony? What if the poverty was just an instrument for God to awe those who see you in your prosperity? People of God, we are called to be a sacrifice. You have yielded your life to God for His use. Even before you were able to make the conscious decision for holiness, He used you for His glory. That’s a privilege. It’s no reason to feel down, but a reason to rejoice. It’s not cause for feeling guilty, but cause for being honored.

You are greater than what you’ve gone through. That’s why God allowed YOU to go through it. Your past would have crushed someone else, but God equipped YOU to adapt and overcome. YOU are more than a conqueror! Selah.

No End without the Means

Romans 5
1) Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
2) By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
3) And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
4) And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
5) And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.


In Romans 8:28, we are told that "ALL things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." So many times, we quote this Scripture without actually thinking about its implications. As people of God, we will go through things. We will suffer, BUT those sufferings will reap the blessings of God in our lives.

There are no "short cuts" to spiritual maturity. It comes only with relationship with God. Now, when we are truly dedicated to the work of our Father and have relationship with Him, tribulation is inevitable. Tribulation is opposition, though it comes in many forms. That opposition, however, does not define us, as we are justified by faith. Our peace is through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. So, don't be discouraged. Do not get angry, frustrated or upset. Just know that you are justified, so you can stand and maintain peace in your relationship with our Father.

Have you ever prayed for more patience, more hope or more peace? Then, it seemed as if your world turned upside down? Well, that's the PROCESS that God has warned us of. That peace comes through trials. That patience comes through perserverance. Hope and experience are developed through trials. Living for God does not mean that we live an exclusive life of victory, wealth and perfection. It means we are equipped to fight. It means we have accepted a call to work for the will of God to be established in the earth. It means you are willing to become a living sacrifice, and that is only your reasonable service.

There are no shortcuts. You cannot have the end without the means. Selah!

What Did Jesus Teach About Prayer?

Prayer does not have to be a mystical, religious battle. In fact, the Father desires to have an intimate, ongoing relationship with you. If you are struggling with prayer and developing a relationship with God, this teaching is a must. Listen, be encouraged and pass it on!

Click HERE to listen now!

Cry Aloud, Spare Not! Radio Ministry

The ACCURSED Gospel

Galatians 1:7-9 (King James Version)

Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

____

What would Jesus do? The world has gone crazy over this question and unfortunately, the church ponders at it. I love the way Kurt Cameron addressed it in his assumption that Jesus would do just what He did! What did Jesus do? That's what He would do?


Seems so simple and logical, yet we often miss it! The church has fallen in love with trying to make salvation "deep". The word of God is clear to those who have revelation and spiritual insight through the Holy Spirit. God reveals His secrets to whom He wills. Relationship is key with Him. Many are called, but few are chosen. Yet the Gospel of Jesus Christ remains the same. It is NOT for us to add to or subtract from.


When Paul wrote His letter to the Galatians, he addressed this very issue. Those who were part of the church took it upon themselves to make salvation and the Gospel "selective." They added their own entry criteria and requirements. Sounds much like the church today. So much tradition and so many messages being preached with requirements that Jesus never designed or put in place. According to the Word of God, it's an ACCURSED message!


We must get back to the Word of God rather than the words of men! What did God command? What did Jesus teach? That is what we need to know. Most self-proclaimed Christians in America can quote what their pastors say and what their denominations teach more than what the word of God proclaims. This week alone, I've received "testimonies" from at least five people who can spend a solid hour or and entire sheet of paper describing how their pastor or leaders is anointed and has changed their life through teaching. Wrong focus! What has GOD done? What has the Father said? Of course we honor our leaders, but their job is to bring us closer to God, not to make us part of their fan clubs!


Selah.

Appointed to WAIT

Job 14:14

If a man dies, shall he live again? All the days of my warfare and service I will wait, till my change and release shall come (AMP).

If a man die, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come (KJV).


In all that Job endured, he still had a willingness to simply wait on God. Oftentimes, in the midst of our situations, we find it difficult to exercise godly patience. We forget that our Father is not ruled by our sense of time, and we expect Him to operate according to our own guidelines.

In reading this Scripture today, God reminded me that we are to be holy, even as He is holy. We were made in His image, and should resemble God in the earth. With that said, how long has He had to wait for you?

Isn't it funny how God speaks to us and we ignore Him, sometimes for years? Yet, when we speak or call out to Him for help, we demand nothing less than immediate results. Where is our God-like patience?

This is a season to SEEK the face of God. Oftentimes, seeking takes time. It requires persistence - the same type of persistence our Father exercised when He waited patiently for hundreds of years, just to find His people still living in sin. He was so persistent in His desire to reconcile man back unto Himself, that He gave His only Son as an atonement for us. Where are those, in this season, who will continue in the battle until a change comes? Despite the circumstances, who will press on toward the prize? Will you wait, if necessary, until your change comes...knowing that with that change comes acceptance from your Heavenly Father? Selah.

New Beginnings

A sister shared this with me this morning, and I just had to pass it on. It confirms what the prophets have been proclaiming and even what my Apostle shared recently. God is not playing in this season...


The EX Daily Word for January 8, 2009
New Beginnings, Pt. 4

Prov. 11:11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.


Things have to change in 2009. People have to open their eyes and see what is really going on. The hype message won't work this year, because there is a crisis in the land and it is exposing the agenda of the false prophets. They lied to us all while the getting was good and preached that 2008 was the year of growth, wealth, and financial independence, and yet they are downsizing their staffs and letting employees go? They didn't see this bad economy coming and they wanted to pretend it was not going to happen, but it has. You see, when the music concerts and plays/dramas stop, the truth has to be dealt with and many of our pastors are not equipped to hear from God for real and preach the truth! They know how to entertain and bring a sermon, but do they really know how to prophetically prepare for the coming turmoil of our nation? Now many are cutting corners and trying to make ends meet and some are using get rich schemes and totally distorting the Gospel message of Christ. What happened to the plenty, the financial blessing, and the harvest? I have news for you people of God, if you have been standing for the truth and righteousness, don't worry, you will have plenty. If you have stood up for the right thing and shunned the false thing, you will be blessed in this hour. 2009 is the year that will separate the real from the fake. No longer will folks just sit under a homosexual pastor, preacher, or choir director and allow them to totally suck the spiritual life out of them. We can't sit back and just be entertained and you cannot entertain away the pain! Folks need God now and it takes those that really know how to get to him to stand in this hour. We can't sit under pastors and preachers that are for the money and not the lives any longer.


God is separating and starting with the church so I encourage you to pray and fast until you hear from God about your situation this year. I'm not talking about laying off of sweets and sodas for a couple of days but I'm talking about really pushing the entire plate away, turning off the entertainment and hearing the voice of God. We have wasted so much time chasing these false prophets of Baal and these mega church messes. It's time to find out where your meals will be coming from for real. The day of the Bishop flying in the jets, flossing on the Oprah show, and living the life of a rock star, while the congregation suffers from lack of Spiritual nourishment is over. That won't work in this hour people. People need a real Word, a real relationship with God and some real answers from the Sunday sermon! They need pastors that have good marriages, good children, and success in their own homes to lead them in the time of lack and turmoil. God is putting an end to the game and he is transferring the wealth in this final hour to those that have been faithful to stand for him. Don't sow another dime to a ministry that is lead by a carnal, selfish leader. If they are not leading Spiritually, then they are not your spiritual leader! Open your eyes saints. The hour is late. If you want a new beginning and God's favor in 2009, do what he says and you will be sustained!


Suggested Reading: Psa. 55:22, Neh. 9:21, Psa. 112:2-3, Prov. 10:22

Word of Prophecy for 2009

This is something God gave me in December of 2006. Yet, this morning I was instructed to share it again, as the same applies to the coming year of 2009. Don't worry about the year, Saints of God - WALK IN YOUR SEASON!


Like many of you, I have read literally 30+ prophecies concerning 2007, and I've probably heard even more. My Father and I had a long talk about this, and I asked God, what is it that I need to know about for 2007? I'd felt "left out," because though God has been showing me things, I haven't had any huge revelation for 2007.God spoke and said He has been speaking all year. "I am not ruled by your sense of time. Too many are seeking a word and a vision for the year. I am not concerned with years, but with seasons. Too many are looking for a change on January 1, but have not yet completed the assignments required to move into a new season."


My Father quickly reminded me that His ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts. He showed me that the church is operating in spirit of divination and fortune-telling. Too many are concerned with giving a word for 2007, while people are dying in THIS season. A season, God reminded me, is not dependent on dates but on progression, growth and completion of purpose.


I know this is blunt, but I must be obedient in sharing this. We must stop trying to conjur up a word for the year. What is God saying TODAY?


God said, "Where were the seekers all year long?" How dare anyone give a word for the coming year when they have failed to communicate God's messages for the last 12 months! There is so much more I can add, but for now, this is all I feel led to share. Selah.

IMAGINE - Ministry without Blame (My Heart's Cry)

As a new Pastor, I often find myself in prayer simply repenting for many things I’ve learned that do not please God. There is so much He is revealing to me, and I thank God for it. Yet, I am grieved. I’m grieved at the state of the church, and my prayer is that I will never cause the church to “look bad”. God is revealing so much to me. He is opening my eyes to so much. Most of all, He’s reminding of many things He’s allowed me to see in the past, yet I spoke nothing. I must now speak.



One of my biggest fears in ministry has been becoming a reproach to the Body of Christ. Too often, the people of God suffer because of the "public" mistakes made by someone else in ministry. How many times have you heard excuses from those who don't attend a church that reference how Christians are fake, selfish and hypocritical? Too many people are hurt by those who call themselves ministers of God. Too much disappointment comes from those who claim to live holy lives.



Of course, none of us are perfect. Yet, we too often use the "I'm only human" excuse. Are we not supposed to strive for perfection? Should we not be holy as God is holy? I know that I have made many mistakes in ministry. Yet, God is faithful, and love covers a multitude of sin. When my mistakes are truly mistakes, God covers. He knows our motives and will make them known. Even the world knows those who have a pure heart from those who express excuses to cover their evil motives.



In Paul's second epistle to the church at Corinth, he spoke of the characteristics of a pure a blameless ministry. He encouraged the believers to think about more than themselves. He admonished them to remember that their actions represented the Body of Christ. For that reason, they were to be careful of their actions and words.




2 Corinthians 6:3-10 AMP
v3) We put no obstruction in anybody's way [we give no offense in anything], so that no fault may be found and [our] ministry blamed and discredited.


First and foremost, Paul speaks of a ministry that causes no offense. In other words, the ministers of God are blameless. Now, this doesn’t mean they will never cause anyone to be angry. The power, however, is that when we remove personal offence, only conviction remains. The word of God will sting. The word will rebuke, correct and even offend. Yet, when the people of God are blameless, no fault can be found in us. Therefore, the ministry is not discredited. Though disagreement may rise, disrespect will not be an issue.


What if the church was without offense? People might disagree with the word we preach, but would not be able to say anything bad about the saints of God. Too often, we offend in the flesh without ever allowing the love of God to flow. So, it’s not the word of God that is rejected, but we are rejected before the word of God is even preached. It’s scary when we consider how many people have missed God, simply because of our own foolish, mean and offensive acts.


Instead of focusing on obedience to God and fearful respect of Him, the majority of our message is how WE must be respected and obeyed. We teach that if someone doesn’t like us, they are cursed. If they offend us, they are in sin. That’s simply not so. It’s not about us. It’s about the word of God. It’s about the love of the Father.


Too many of us are turning people away from the church because of our own evil and selfish ways. We act as if we are the only way to God rather than Jesus Christ, His Son. We are rude and offensive, then cover it up by saying we are only human. We preach that others must “touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.” We don’t stop to think, pray and consider that perhaps our own actions were not of God at all. We have a tendency to forget that the greatest among us must be servants. The greatest of us should be willing and able to repent before those who hear our messages. We do not have free passes to offend, simply because we carry a title or a certificate.



v4) But we commend ourselves in every way as [true] servants of God: through great endurance, in tribulation and suffering, in hardships and privations, in sore straits and calamities,
v5) In beatings, imprisonments, riots, labors, sleepless watching, hunger;


Endurance in tribulation and suffering… When was the last time we endured through tribulation and suffering from others, without causing our ministries to look bad? How much do we really value integrity?


Jesus warned in Matthew, chapter 5 that we would be ridiculed for righteousness sake. Yet, He also taught that we are not to return insults with insult. We are to “turn the other check.” Unfortunately, we often forget that vengeance belongs to God. It is not for us to speak curses on others because we feel “disrespected.” Instead, it is our job to pray for them and win them over with love. We must be more concerned about their sin than their opinions of us or our ministries.


Then, there are the beatings, imprisonments, labors, watching, hunger… Let’s be honest. Many of us don’t understand suffering for the sake of ministry at all. Many of us don’t even carry our own Bibles. Many of us don’t know what it’s like to preach without a mint and a crystal glass of water or tea. We believe we are to be served, and if we do suffer, just a little… someone is going to get rebuked. Where were the deacons? Where was the armorbearer? This is our thinking. Service? Suffering? They are still too foreign to us.



v6) By innocence and purity, knowledge and spiritual insight, longsuffering and patience, kindness, in the Holy Spirit, in unfeigned love;


The characteristics of a godly ministry are very clear. Innocence means “not guilty”. Purity means holiness, sinless, sanctified for the use of the Father. Knowledge and spiritual insight speaks to revelation… a TRUE RELATIONSHIP with God. That’s far more important than years of education or even years spent in the “church.” Tenure is not God’s priority. In fact, for many of us, tenure is more of a shame than a trophy. Twenty years in the church, but you’ve caused no change. How dare we sit in the midst of hell, disguised as a house of God, yet say nothing. I am guilty. God called me as a prophet, yet I refused to open my mouth. Why? Religion, control… God is tired. Who will stand?


Have we forgotten longsuffering and patience? Have we forgotten KINDNESS and love? People of God, we must stop being so concerned about being right that we forget mercy and kindness. Rebuke is godly correction – not instruction on how WE think things should be. What has God said? In many of our rebukes to others, if we would be honest, God never said anything concerning the matter, except that we should pray for that person and love them.


What are we really trying to prove? As Jason Upton sang in a song called “It Ain’t Easy,” when we learn to love like God, we learn to “give it all, and get nothing back!”



v7) By [speaking] the word of truth, in the power of God, with the weapons of righteousness for the right hand [to attack] and for the left hand [to defend];


True ministry brings forth truth. Jesus stated that those who are His disciples shall know the truth, and the truth shall make us free! So, why is there so much bondage? It’s not a testimony, leaders, to have people following who are more afraid and reverent of you than they are of God. That’s not a testimony, but a disgrace. You have accepted the position of an idol. Repentance is of the essence. Priorities must be reordered. Preach TRUTH, not self! Preach relationship, not tradition.



v8) Amid honor and dishonor; in defaming and evil report and in praise and good report. [We are branded] as deceivers (impostors), and [yet vindicated as] truthful and honest.


Can you imagine being found innocent of EVERY accusation? How many ministries would truly stand? In other words, how many of us would stand? We don’t realize that WE ARE MINISTRY. Ministry is your service unto God. If you are not pure, your ministry is not pure! Why do we think we can live like the world as long as our churches grow? As long as the website gets hits and people send us email messages, we feel that our lives can be out of order. We have it all wrong. You are to be a living sacrifice unto God. It’s your reasonable service. It is ministry. When you stand before God, after being dishonored by others, does He find you innocent? Is repentance a regular practice for you, or just something you preach to others? Your ministry is not those you lead… It’s the life YOU lead before God – naked and exposed!



v9) [We are treated] as unknown and ignored [by the world], and [yet we are] well-known and recognized [by God and His people]; as dying, and yet here we are alive; as chastened by suffering and [yet] not killed;


Wow! Unknown by the world? Are we really? What is our motive? What is our ambition? Television broadcasts… Nice clothes… Big cars… Elaborate homes… CD’s…Millions in self-worth… Why is a good thing for the latest gospel artist to be played on the R&B station or BET? Are these not the ambitions of many in “ministry?” What happened to being separate from the world – even unknown and hated by the world? Somehow, the ambitions of the world have become our own. In our warped thinking about evangelism, we have brought the world into the house of God, claiming we want to “draw them.” Jesus said that those who belong to Him would be drawn by the Father. Are we so afraid to be the remnant? Are we so terrified of being the elect, a peculiar nation? Or do we simply not trust God to draw His own? He doesn’t need our help. He desires our obedience. The world does not belong in His house.


We are to be recognized by God and His people. We are recognized by our sacrifice. Popularity is not our motive. Fame is not our plight!



v10) As grieved and mourning, yet [we are] always rejoicing; as poor [ourselves, yet] bestowing riches on many; as having nothing, and [yet in reality] possessing all things.


When we operate in TRUE ministry, we experience a peace that passes all understanding. Rather than blaming others for our sufferings, we rejoice in them. Our possessions mean nothing beside the love of God that we feel. We rejoice simply in knowing our Father is pleased.



Hmmm…. True ministry! Selah!



Saints of God, pray with me and FOR me. I want to please God. I take ministry VERY seriously and my motives must always be pure before Him. I’m tired of “church as usual.” I want to be the one who has signs following. I want to hear God clearly. I want to be a blessing to people. I want to be known as a servant. I want to see people reconciled to the Father. I’ve seen the games, and my heart hurts for those who are deceived and for those who are deceiving. Many are making resolutions for 2009 even now. Let’s make a decision to truly be God’s vessels in the earth. Prophets, decide that you will no longer be silent. Evangelists, make up your mind to preach the TRUTH. God is merciful, but He is also just. Apostles, set order. Don’t be discouraged when they leave. Pastors, take opportunities to serve and stop demanding to be served. Teachers, teach the Word of God and stand up against the teachings of your denomination. REVIVAL is imminent. I want to be a part!

How Much Christ Is In Your Christmas (A Repost)?

This time of year, it's inevitable to read the newspapers without hearing the ongoing debate about Christmas. Is it wrong, is it right? Should we say "Happy Holidays" or "Merry Christmas"? To gift or not to gift? It's a never-ending saga, even in the house of God.

Without getting into tons of history and research, only to come to an endless debate, I want to share one thought with everyone during this holiday season...

So then, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you may do, do all for the honor and glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Saints, during this time, we must remember Christ. We must consider the heart of God. So many of us struggle and argue with traditions and their origins. We want to please our children, but are conflicted about which parts of Christmas should be kept, and which should be dismissed. Truthfully, it's really not that difficult to figure it out - DOES IT EXALT CHRIST? DOES IT DRAW MEN TO THE FATHER?

Even more, what did God tell YOU to do? Have you asked the Father what pleases HIM? Hmmmm...

Now, I leave you with one other thought. Consider this scenario...

A man and woman are celebrating their 20th anniversary. They have enjoyed a wonderful relationship, held together by the grace of God. At the anniversary dinner, the man leans over the table and looks into his wife's eyes. He tells her how he has enjoyed the wonderful time they've spent together, and presents her with a gift. To her surprise, it's a 4-karat diamond ring! Excited and anxious, the woman removes the ring from the box, and notices some engraving on the inside. When she reads the inscription, she realizes the ring actually belonged to her husband's ex-wife. He purchased this very gift as an engagement ring for his first wife rather than the one he was celebrating.

Now, his wife is disappointed, and somewhat upset. Confused about her reaction, the husband asks her why she is so upset. Pulling herself together, she explains... "I feel like I am receiving left overs. Though I know you love me and that you want me to feel appreciated with this lovely, expensive ring, the fact still remains that when you purchased it, your heart was set on someone else. The original purpose for this gift was to express your love to another woman, not me. I'd rather you give me a new penny, from your heart, than a recycled gift that happens to fit the occasion."

Isn't it funny how we do the same thing to God around this time of year? Many times, we get so caught up in tradition, and we SAY it's being done for God's glory. When we KNOW a particular act or practice came from idolatry and acts that did not please God, yet we try to justify them at this time of year by making it seem like a Christian agenda. We are simply trying to please God with an idol's offering - trying to give Him a used engagement ring. This year, let's give Him something new and genuine from our hearts. Seek His face and give Him praise. Before we celebrate, let's ask God what REALLY pleases Him. Whatever He says to do, let's do it. Whatever He says to leave out, let's just leave it out!

Then, and only then, will God get this glory in this season. Saints, we cannot continue to allow the world to dictate how we celebrate, when we shop, what we tell our children, and how we decorate our homes. We are the salt of the earth. WE ARE SUPPOSED TO BE DIFFERENT!

God bless you!

I Am Tired of the Slavery and Abuse!

Before you read this post, please know that I have taken this opportunity to speak from my heart. This is a solicitation for all of us to pray and repent... and be FREE!!!


John 8:31-36 (AMP)

31 So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, If you abide in My word [hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them], you are truly My disciples.
32 And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free.
33 They answered Him, We are Abraham's offspring (descendants) and have never been in bondage to anybody. What do You mean by saying, You will be set free?
34 Jesus answered them, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, Whoever commits and practices sin is the slave of sin.
35 Now a slave does not remain in a household permanently (forever); the son [of the house] does remain forever.
36 So if the Son liberates you [makes you free men], then you are really and unquestionably free.



I have found myself fixated in prayer as I grow more and more tired. I’m not tired of serving God… Not tired of ministry… Not even tired of my late nights and busy schedule. I’m just tired of seeing God’s people bound. I’m tired of seeing people enslaved to religion when God has made us free.

Over the last few days, our prayer line has been inundated with calls from people who are confused and abused, all in the name of “obedience and humility.” Many of them are being abused by those of us who should be setting them free. If I may simply share how I feel for one moment…

The thing that hurts and angers me most is that people are being abused in the name of God. There are literally church leaders lying on God week after week, watching people die. I am sick and tired of the abuse.

Many of us understand and know too well what church abuse feels like. “Church hurt”, as I’ve so often heard it called, is one of the deepest hurts a person can experience. Yet, there is an epidemic in the church of today – too many hurt people who have heard lies are now hurting others with those same lies. We have created doctrines and teachings that enslave people, when Jesus died for our freedom. We have become more obsessed with pleasing our leaders than we are with pleasing God. Allow me to share some examples…


-- I spoke with a minister who was told to pray for three topics and submit them to the pastor so the pastor could decide “which was really from God.”
-- I heard from a young lady who was turned away from prayer and communion because she didn’t have time to change before church, and wore slacks instead of a skirt.
-- I spoke with a woman who was told she had a spirit of witchcraft just because the prophet who was speaking could not “see anything good for her”


About a year ago, I received a call from a young lady who was in a church. She was a leader in the church, but she was caught up in an adulterous relationship. Surprisingly enough, her leaders knew of her affair (she was married), but never spoke out against it. In fact, they encouraged the couple to date. One day, I had a conversation with the young lady about her situation, and she was told by her leaders to ignore that conversation. As they stated, she was grown and they saw nothing wrong with the relationship. Surprisingly enough, just a few weeks after that conversation, the young lady called sobbing. She was upset because she was working hard as an armorbearer, but felt unappreciated. I remember very clearly that she stated, “Joy, I serve my leaders. I am faithful to them and I am careful to keep them covered, to make sure they have everything they need. I also pay my tithes, so why is God deserting me like this?”

I could hardly believe my ears. Here was a woman who became angry at God, because she was kept in bondage by her leaders. Now, I also understand that as a grown woman, she should have sought out the truth. Why didn’t she? Comfort.

Comfort can be a dangerous thing. When slavery was abolished in the United States, many freed slaves refused to leave their masters. Why? They were comfortable. They would rather stay in bondage than face an uncertain freedom. When someone is free, they have to make their own way. They can no longer depend on someone else. Freedom, for many, causes fear because it requires responsibility.

The same is so true in the Kingdom of God. Many of us listen to false doctrine and sit under crooked and misguided leaders because it’s comfortable. Who will confront you about your sin as long as you’re a good armorbearer? Who will make sure you know the word and have a relationship with God as long as you tithe and give great financial gifts? Who will expect you to live a holy lifestyle as long as you support the pastor and leaders? It’s so much easier to accept the false sense of security than it is to seek freedom in Christ. After all, freedom in God requires sacrifice. You will have to be holy, as God is holy. You will need to become a disciple of Jesus Christ. You will have to believe and maintain a solid relationship with the Father. You will have to stand for truth, even in the face of adversity. Perhaps these are some of the reasons that the way to eternal life is straight and narrow. Jesus said, “few there be that find it!”

As leaders, let’s stop demanding anniversaries and birthday parties when everyone in the church is told to give $50 or face a rebuke. Instead, let’s teach good stewardship, and teach people to pay their bills. Better yet, since the greatest among us are servants, according to Jesus Christ himself, let’s try to serve instead of always being served!

Let’s just do what the word of God says. Jesus said that we who are His disciples will know the truth, and the truth will make us free. We are bound, because we don’t know the word of God! We are trying to live by man’s law – tradition and religion. Jesus said that when He sets us free, we are free indeed! Let’s just do this thing God’s way.

I’ve heard some great atrocities during this week alone. I’m speaking of things that we all know to be false, yet we continue to sit under the doctrine, in bondage. Some of us continue teaching the things we know are not from the Word of God. Now is the time to stand up and be free! Now is the time to let God be true, but every man a liar!

Is Ministry Driving You or Dragging You?

As I was in casual conversation with a friend this morning, discussing ministry, God clearly spoke and said, “Ministry is supposed to drive you, not drag you!”

God is speaking to our motives, once again, for ministry. So many are involved in things we call “ministry,” but really don’t have a heart or desire to please God or win souls. How can we operate in ministry, when we have no general consideration for people?

Just look around. Watch how the saints treat the saints. How can we say we love God, whom we never seen, when we treat our brothers and sisters like crap. Many of us brown-nose those who have titles and position, only because we think it will give us favor, or we’ve been erroneously taught that somehow, this will cause God to bless us, despite our own sin.

Where is the HEART for ministry? Where is the desire to build the Kingdom of God. Ministry should be the motivator. Pleasing God should be the very thing that drives us into excellence. Instead, many of us are dragging behind ministry. We go with the flow because of what we’ve been told to do. We are more concerned about what men think than what God says about a matter. We just want to be seen. We want to be able to share what we have accomplished, but this is not the motive that pleases God!

God is speaking to the Church. Do NOT be a dead weight! Stop dragging behind. Put your hands to the plow and do what God has called you to do.

In respect to leadership, we often don’t realize how much we can frustrate a vision when we follow for the wrong reasons. Leaders in the Kingdom of God are not called to babysit others who claim maturity in Christ. If you are indeed driven by the desire to please the Father, you will operate in excellence. You will not be complacent just doing enough to get by. Like David, you will not offer anything to God that hasn’t cost you something.

Today, people of God, determine for yourselves. Is ministry driving you or dragging you? Selah.

What About Titles?

As far back as I can remember, there has been an ongoing discussion in the Body of Christ about titles. Should we use them? Should we recognize them? Are they biblical?


Over the last few days, this very topic has come up over and over again. Even in my prayer time, the Lord has reminded me of the instruction and revelation He gave me on this very issue. With that said, I will share what God has revealed to me.


First and foremost, a “title” should be an adjective, not a noun. Too many of us treat our titles as nothing more than an appendage to our name. It is NOT part of your name. It MUST be a description of who you are and what you do. It amazes me how many in the Body of Christ take on titles when they have no idea of the roles implied by them. As a married woman, I became a “Mrs.” when I married Christopher Allen. I could not change my name to “Mrs.-Elect” Joy Allen when I was engaged. Why? Because the title I wear describes the role I fulfill. I may have been called from birth to be Chris’ wife, but until I walked into that responsibility, I did not have the right to call myself “Mrs.” When a student earns a Ph.D., they become a “Dr.” upon graduation, because they have now fulfilled the requirements to become such. A student cannot call him or herself “Dr.” on the first day of class simply because they will one day earn a degree. So, why do we throw titles around like candy in the church? We don’t like that word – RESPONSIBILITY. We somehow associate titles with position, but ignore the great accountability that comes with it.


There was once a time when a name meant something. Throughout the word of God, we understand names are significant. In fact, there are numerous examples of great men and women of God whose names were changed when they walked into their God-given destinies. Today, we don’t put emphasis on names. We rarely give any thought to what we call our children and what those names mean or imply. However, the pattern of God is always to describe the person’s nature and assignment in what He calls them. When it comes to the Church, we must follow suit with the same practice.


I have struggled many times with whether or not to use a ministry title. In many ways, it is a cultural practice, and we don’t see the same practice in the Bible. Of course, the titles exist, but they are used in a much different manner than what we practice today. What God told me is this: “When people are sick, they look for a hospital sign. If it were not for the sign, many may not find the help they need. Those I have called out need to be found. I have called you My Prophet, and my people shall call you My Prophet.” For me, it was a difficult thing to do. However, I am very cautious about the use of a title, and I never demand it. It was ordained for years that I would be a Pastor, but I dared not carry that label until I was equipped and active in the position. Why? I didn’t want anyone who needed help to come to me and not get what they needed. We often fail to realize that a title sets a level of accountability. If I hire a person on my secular job who informs me they have five years of experience, I will expect more from them than someone who has only one year. By their own admission, they should be better at fulfilling the responsibilities. So, a failure for the experienced employee may not be a failure for the newer one. The same applies in the Body of Christ. This is why the church has become so tainted and lacks the trust and confidence of the world. Too many of us are practicing false advertisement. Our titles tell us that healing and deliverance are available, but when the sick come, they find only a form of religion with no power!


On that note, the other reason I use is a title is to keep me accountable. When I am referred to as a Prophet or a Pastor, I am reminded of the things God has called me to do in ministry. It keeps me accountable to people and God, because I cannot hide. When everyone knows your calling and assignment, you don’t have an opportunity to slip away from it. I take that very seriously. My every move is recorded by God, but also watched by man. As a minister, I am accountable to both. I am first a servant, and must never lose sight of that. I am called to minister to those who are hurting, those who are seeking God, and those are the ones who see the title and ask for help. I must then be ready to provide that help, by the leading of the Holy Spirit.


When it comes to others, I opt to respect the title that a person carries. If I am introduced to a person as “Evangelist,” I will always refer to them as “Evangelist.” Whether or not another should carry a title – I hold that between them and God, unless He specifically gives me a prophetic instruction for something different.


The point is this – our titles describe only our positions in the Body of Christ. Just as it is in the world, our job titles mean nothing. It’s how well you fulfill the job description that will get you promoted! Many of us have fancy titles at our jobs, but most of those titles describe nothing more than a glorified secretary. The titles in corporate America often sound more “grand” than the actual responsibilities. Yet, we are accountable for the responsibilities, not the title. Again, it is not the title, but it’s how well you fulfill the job requirements that will get you promoted! Selah.

The More I Seek You (Worship Dance)

I thank God for Prophetess Celeste Stevens. She has always been a prophet of truth, correction and accountability. I can now laugh when I think back to all the stumbling blocks that were placed between us. The enemy certainly never desired for us to become friends, but God healed a relationship that began with tension and false allegations. I thank God that He still sets the solitary in families. It is certainly a privilege to know and work with this awesome woman of God in ministry.

I had the wonderful opportunity of preparing the house for worship before she brought forth a powerful word. I love this song, because it is the desire of my heart - to sit at the feet of Jesus, drink from the cup of His hand, lay back against Him and breath, feel his heartbeat. This love is so deep, it's more than I can stand. I melt in His peace... it's overwhelming! Hallelujah!

The Daily Report (A Poem)

I’m ready Lord,
To report the things
I’ve done for you today

I’ve been busy
Spreading your word
Teaching people your way

I laid hands on the sick
And saw them healed
Caused demons to quickly flee

I fed the hungry
Clothed the naked
And set the captive free

I preached a sermon
And sang some songs
I clapped, I danced, I ran

Shared my testimony
The good and the bad
And how I was born again

I served my leaders
Carried their things
Obeyed each and every request

Made sure they had money
Good food to eat
And received plenty of rest

I went to church
And shook many hands
Making sure that I was seen

I hugged on children
And adults alike
Never seeming too distant or mean

But at the end of the day
When I’m ready to report
All the things I’ve done

I realize that
While I ministered all day
I neglected the very main One

I talked to others
But didn’t talk to You
Prayer I completely forsook

I preached and worked
But never once
Did I stop to read the Good Book

I corrected and chastised
And pointed out sin
But neglected to share the Good News

Somehow, O God
I felt better about Me
By telling others they’d broken the rules

So, here I am Lord
No longer wanting to brag
But needing only to repent

Instead of doing Your will
I’ve catered to men
Neglected that for which I was sent

Forgive me now Father
And teach me again
To always serve you before men

This time tomorrow
Our conversation will be different…

Instead of using You
I’ll thank You for using me
And I’ll be pleasing in your sight
Once again!

To the Leaders of God's People...

God has been challenging me over the last few weeks, and I want to share this "challenge" with other leaders in the house of God. First, let me thank God for my spritual mother and Apostle, because she believes in the FREEDOM that God is bringing forth in this season. I don't speak very much about Apostle Glendora Winston, but that's not because she doesn't deserve it! This woman of God has taught me more than she'll ever know, and she's been an inspiration in my life due to her RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. Of course, she has the accomplishments and the grace, but most importantly, I know she has a heart for the Father and she genuinely cares for God's people!

With that said, I have felt a freedom over the last few months that I have not had in years. It's as if God is purging me from so many things that He never required. Now, I certainly thank God for the experiences, because they helped to shape and mold me into who I am today. The Father has used many in my past to teach me in many different ways, so I don't take that for granted. However, this is a new season! Hallelujah!

Now, while the method may be different, the message is the same. God has challenged me to think and pray about everything I do in ministry. Why do I do it that way? Where did I learn that from? How does this please the Father? How much is religion? Tradition? Relationship?

Now, let me say this: Not all tradition is wrong. Not all religion is wrong. The point is this - some of us are in BONDAGE to things that God never required of us. This is the season to GET FREE! I invite and challenge each of us to fast and pray as we approach this new year. I wish I could wrap this excitement I have and send it to all of you, but it is so much better coming directly from the Father!

In fasting and praying, let's seek God for HIS WILL in our lives. Let's ask Him to help us examine ourselves and be purged for a new era. There are so many souls who desire to know God, but they've been hurt or deterred because of bondage caused by man, covered with religion and disguised as prophecy. There is blood on the hands of the church, and we are called to repent and restore in the months to come.

Be encouraged! God desires for His people to be FREE! Get ready to soar and receive again the JOY OF THE LORD! Hallelujah!

But, What Does GOD Say About the Matter?

Matthew 6
32 For the Gentiles (heathen) wish for and crave and diligently seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows well that you need them all.
33 But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides.
34 So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble.


So many of us, as people of God, spend day after day trying to fit an image or trying to accomplish some task in ministry. For many of us, we have authored our own forms of righteousness without ever hearing God’s instruction or opinion. For this reason, our righteousness has waxed cold. We find ourselves engulfed in good, but dead works.

I am in a season in my life where God is freeing me from what seems to be tons of bondage. I have been taught so much “religion” in my life. I’ve learned what a preacher “should look like.” I’ve been lectured on how a prophet must speak. I’ve been mentored on how a virtuous woman should dress. Nevertheless, there have been few in my past who concentrated on righteousness. Few have simply taught what God demands.

The church has perfected “the look” better than a Mary Kay professional. We have infiltrated the minds of God’s people, causing them to concentrate more on a human expectation than a godly requirement.

Righteousness comes from God and Him alone. He gives us the power to operate according to His word and His will. Pleasing God brings about righteousness… not religious traditions.

The Father wants His people to be free! As we begin praying and preparing for a new year, I know the will of the Father is to bring His people into a season of freedom. Freedom from thoughts that are not of Him… Freedom from practices that are not of Him… Freedom from the bondage of religion that has not come from Him…

God desires a people to seek to please HIM! Then, everything else will come. Wouldn’t it be nice to be free to worship without someone telling you you’re ungrateful just because you don’t shout and jump around the church that day? Wouldn’t it be a blessing to have an opportunity to pray without someone telling you that you’ve been praying too long? Wouldn’t it be great to go and preach the word of God without having to make sure your shoes match your best hat? What if we could just concentrate on pleasing God? What if we could experience giving from a pure heart of desire rather than coercion, guilt, or a need addressed by a false word of prophecy? What if God’s children were REALLY free in what’s supposed to be their own Daddy’s house? Jesus told us that His yoke is easy and His burden is light! So, why are we so heavy? Who are we really trying to please? Let God be true, and every man a liar!

We were never saved just to return to bondage. People of God, get FREE! We cannot know what God has to say when we are so preoccupied with what man has to say. Unclog your ears in this hour. Don’t worry about church as usual. That is dying in this season! Be lead of God. Seek the Kingdom first! Don’t worry about the gainsayers. Do not be concerned with the finances.

Pastors and Leaders – God is saying that you MUST obey and do the “strange” thing He is instructing you to do in this season. Stop doing what you’ve always done just because it has always been done that way. It will not be popular, but do not be concerned with their faces. Do not worry about the finances. Be obedient. Seek the Kingdom. The Father wants you to be FREE in RIGHTEOUSNESS! Seek His Kingdom, and the supply shall never run dry!

To GOD be the glory!

Remember to Pray for our Nation!

To GOD be the glory!

History was certainly made when Barack Obama was elected as our nation's 44th president. We congratulate the Obama family for all they've accomplished.

More importantly, we must not lose focus on God! He will need our prayers in many ways, and this nation needs the prayers of the righteous in order to triumph. As the people of God, it's OUR JOB AS SAINTS - to intercede, hear and obey God. Let's remain sober and not put too much faith in man. He is merely a vehicle that God can use if those of us who are called to His work in the earth are obedient to the call. We cannot depend on the natural, but the supernatural strength of God to help this country.

In this season, we must remember (no matter who you voted for) that God's people must unite and lift all our leaders in prayer. After all, none of them have confessed a life of holiness or run for office based on a biblical agenda. We, on the other hand, have made a vow to serve God first, and we are commanded to pray for our leaders! Our prayers... our faith... that's what moves God and that is what will spark a better nation for our children.

God has blessed America in so many ways, and I look forward to the next 4 years. I look forward to it, however, with a sober mind. We understand there is a battle to fight, and the children of God know how to plant attacks in the spirit realm!

So, I rejoice and vow to pray for the spiritual revival that with spark the natural change America so desperately needs in this season!

AMEN.

Congratulations to Barack Obama!

CONGRATULATIONS TO BARACK OBAMA

44th President of the United States of America

Join me in praying for our new president as we continue to pray for the USA.
May God continue to bless America!

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance (Psalm 33:12)

You can vote however you like - Students of the Ron Clark Academy

This is the cutest! Surely, America can use better education and more kids who enjoy learning.