The Bride of Christ... REALLY?

Is this the best we can do?

As embarrassing as this photo is, the LORD instructed me to preach in this outfit on last Sunday.

He said I needed to dress myself as the Bride of Christ, in its current state.  Notice how every item is stylish, in its own right, but clashes when brought together?  God spoke and explained that many in the Body feel they are “okay” because they see the beauty and the righteousness in themselves, but refuse to work with others.  So many desire to be seen so badly, that they refuse to step back, "out of the spotlight" even when the anointing is flowing through someone else.  They feel they are living right, but refuse to lift up, encourage and support those in the Body that are not as strong.  Humility is often missing as so much seek their own glory and attention.  As a result, this is a picture of the bride we are presenting to our Savior – uncoordinated and random, lacking harmony and beauty!

The word of God says that Christ’s church is made of many people, with many gifts, all from the same Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4).  The purpose of diverse gifts is not for us to compete with one another, but for us to feed and support one another (Ephesians 4:16).

We are spending too much time trying to stand on our own, rather than operating in accountability and working together to build God’s Kingdom.  As a result, we are CLASHING IN THE SPIRIT, and causing even the very gifts of God to be out of place and confusing!

In all of this, the LORD finally reminded me – the only parts of my outfit doing their job were those things underneath the surface that could not be seen!  Selah.

Virtual Identities

God's people are a people of integrity. We are not two-faced or schizophrenic. We do not follow every wind of doctrine, nor do we suffer from identity crisis. With that being said, true people of God don't hide behind the likes of Facebook, Twitter and MySpace.

It is not "prophetic" to create an identity online that has not been proven. It's very easy to attach a title to one's name or profil...e when accountability is not present. What does God call you? What does your own leader call you? If that differs from your online, fantasy profile, you are out of order.

When we carry multiple identities, either we are perpetrating a position we do not hold or we are ashamed of the call God has assigned to us. Either way, NOT good!

On the other hand, we as God's people MUST hold one another accountable. Look for the fruit, not the gifts. Look for the works, not the title. Seek out the anointing, not the seduction.

Let's do better! ORDER IN THE CHURCH!!!

Stop Being Mean!!!

It takes a special anointing to share the TRUTH without being MEAN. Yes, we must stand firm on the word of God. We must preach the truth without compromise. BUT, no man or woman of God has the right to be rude and evil toward others.

We so often fight the wrong battles. My fight is against principalities, demons, spiritual wickedness in high places... it's NOT against people. My job is to literally love the hell out of those who miss God!

Does the truth hurt? Oftentimes, YES. The truth can be very painful. So, there's no need to add attitude and arrogance to the word of God, which is already sharper than any two-edged sword.

Ministry is not about arguing who's right or who's wrong. NO ONE is called to engage in vain arguments and label it "ministry." It's about SERVING God. Never in my life have I seen so many mean and arrogant servants. People of God, we must wake up. We are not drawing the world to Christ... we are pushing them away. We must follow the word of God in order to preach the word of God. When men see our GOOD WORKS, they will glorify our Father who's in heaven.

Where is the LOVE? Remember Jesus? He's our model. His message cut, but His love healed! ORDER IN THE CHURCH!

Hate the Sin, but Love the Sinner (Like God Does)

To all who have felt hated or discriminated against by Christians, I APOLOGIZE!

As people of God, we are not to hate or despise anyone, but we are called to LOVE. Yes, God does hate sin, and so should we. However, mature people of God understand that this does NOT justify hating or mistreating a person, despite anything they've done. We all do things that God hates, yet He loves us... so much ...so that He sent His Son to die for us, despite that sin (John 3:16; Romans 5:8).

We have ALL sinned! So, whether you are a homosexual, a drunk or a prostitute... Even if you are a rapist or a murderer... a TRUE child of God will HATE the sin, but LOVE you. They won't turn their back on you when you want to know Christ. They will tell you the truth - that repentance is required - and they'll help you to change rather than talking about you or putting you down. When you find that relationship with God, they won't despise you and won't envy your promotion. They won't hold your past against you when you are pressing toward your future.

No, I do NOT promote or support sin. Yet, I know that true LOVE, which comes only from God, covers a multitude of them. ORDER IN THE CHURCH!

The Suffering of the Prophet... In the Church

Matthew 5:11-12

"Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."

 I will admit, I always expected to be ridiculed by the world. Yet, I am astonished that most of it actually comes from the church. It's amazing how many people in "ministry" don't know one another by the spirit at all. It's amazing how many people in "ministry" don't know the Spirit of God.

Like anyone else, I make mistakes. Yet, when I speak as unctioned by the Holy Ghost, I take the assignment VERY seriously. I wish someone had told me that when someone is rebuked or corrected, even in love, I would be labeled a witch, warlock and false prophet.

Why am I sharing this? I share because I want other prophetic voices to know the price that must be paid for the TRUTH. Even as Jesus experienced, the church can hurt more than the world. Yet, we forgive and continue to love. One who has the heart of God can't help but to continue in love and prayer, especially for those who don't understand.

People of God, let's just repent and do better. Let's love one another, and be very careful about labeling God's people as workmen for the enemy. ORDER IN THE CHURCH!

Don't Get Mad... Get Delivered!

James 1:19-20
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God."

Life happens. As it does, people and situations make us angry. The Word of God instructs us to be angry and SIN NOT. A sign of maturity is a believer's ability to hold the tongue. Oftentimes, when our emotions fade and the Spirit of God reveals, we find the energy was wasted in wrath. We musn't be led of emotions, but by the Spirit of God. ORDER IN THE CHURCH!

Walking in Favor

Romans 8:28
"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them."

Do you KNOW God? Are you called for His purpose? Then, don't worry about it. Even those things, people and events that challenge us in life must bow to the will of God. Hallelujah! We all make mistakes, but God has ordered even those steps that cause us to trip, that they too will work in our favor. That's what a REAL relationship with God will do - FAVOR! Rejoice and thank our God! ORDER IN THE CHURCH!

Why Can't We All Just Get Along?

Romans 12:16-18, AMP
"Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty (snobbish, high-minded, exclusive), but readily adjust yourself to [people, things] and give yourselves to humble tasks. Never overestimate yourself or be wise in your own conceits. Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is honest and proper and noble [aiming to be above reproach] in the sight of everyone. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

Why can't we all just get along? No matter what been done to us, we must be kind to others. Backbiting and unforgiveness are NEVER okay. People who truly love the LORD learn to be a peace with others. ORDER IN THE CHURCH!

Train Up a Child...

Proverbs 23:13-14
"Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell."


 I thank God for my children. They are very mannerly and well-behaved. Even more, they love God. It grieves me to see so many parents, in the church, who are turning away from biblical principles in raising th...eir children. Abuse is NEVER okay, but physical discipline birthed out of love is wisdom... and the Bible! Follow the word of God in ALL things. Tantrums, disobedience and rebellion are NOT okay, especially in God's house. Taking our children to the pastor for prayer every Sunday is not the answer, if we refuse to follow God's word in raising them. Time out is NOT in the word of God, I promise. ORDER IN THE CHURCH!

Can You Keep a Secret?

Matthew 6:5-6, 16-18
“When you pray, don’t be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. And when you fas...t, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you."


We all agree that these are times of prayer and fasting. Yet, hear the word of the LORD. We should be seeking HEAVENLY benefits. Therefore, we must be careful not to boast of these works, as it negates the purpose. It is a good thing to encourage one another in prayer and fasting. BUT, it is a prideful thing to boast in doing these works.  The internet, including Facebook, Twitter and others, can quickly turn these intimate acts of worship and petition into boasting. We must be careful. Prayer and fasting are PRIVATE matters. It's no wonder we are so easily interrupted by the enemy and his plans, particularly when we tell the world what we're doing in the realm of spiritual warfare. Keep your battle plans SECRET. Amen. ORDER IN THE CHURCH!!!

There's POWER in Discipleship!

Luke 9:1-2 "Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick."

There is power in DISCIPLESHIP! You don't need a title or a certificate to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus sent His disciples (followers, students) to preach the Kingdom of God and bring souls into the Kingdom. Not only that, but they had POWER to heal the sick and were given AUTHORITY over devils. There are signs that follow those who BELIEVE (Mark 16:15-18).

Let's be released from the false doctrine that only those who carry ministry titles have spiritual power and authority. Remember, the Five-Fold/Ascension gifts, along with Bishops, Elders, etc. are called to the church. ALL DISCIPLES are called to the world - as salt and light. It's a NEW SEASON!

It's a Murderer

Today, I found myself just praying for the institution of the local church.  I mourn for the acceptance of sin and egotistical leaders... And for those who haven't sought God enough to gain the discernment to know the difference between witchcraft and the miraculous.

"God, help! We need to experience TRUE revival, hearts that burn for You and satisfaction in those eternal things greater than what our eyes can see, our minds can imagine and our thoughts can lust over."

The LORD began to show me that the institute of the church is being used by the enemy to murder His own people.  We have been warned that "...there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect" (Matthew 24:24).  After that reminder, this is the poem the Holy Spirit gave me to share...

It’s a murderer…

Stealing life to make oneself fat

At the expense of the innocent and young
Deceiving many and destroying hope
With a loose and violent tongue

Gathering those who are hurt and confused

Empty promises of hope and love
While all the time roaming as Satan’s wolves
Looking innocent as a dove

Abusing trust and stealing money

From those who work so hard
Then shunning those who choose to speak out with
“Touch not mine anointed, do my prophets no harm!”

Twisting scriptures and misquoting God’s word

To manipulate, abuse and control
While becoming idols and collecting fans in God’s house
To assist in playing a role

Creating a system of politics and fame

Hierarchies, titles and clichés
Yet forgetting the blood of our Savior and LORD
Shed to cleanse us from our evil ways

A murderer…

Could it really be the church?

Those who have forgotten the purpose for their call

The people God desires to use
Those who were instructed to teach and protect
Now will to neglect and abuse

Could it really be the saints?

Bishops, elders, deacons and the five-fold

Many turn to such destruction and shame
Quenching the Holy Ghost through lies and deceit
All for a popular name

Could it really be the ecclesia?

There were those who preached with boldness, strength

Messages full of conviction and power
Who now fulfill the prophetic words foretelling
That evil will rise in this hour

Could it really be the preachers?

Many who were true have now become false

Claiming Christ only when on stage
The same have caused God, who sits high on the throne
To bring judgment with His holy rage

A murderer…

The church could be, though the Church is not

So determine to which you belong
The true Body of Christ, the Bride of the King
Or the club that justifies its wrong

Religion or relationship, tradition or holiness

You have the freedom to make a choice
Will the true Church of God please stand up?
God REALLY wants to use your voice

To stop the murder… NOW!

 

1 John 3:15-16

Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.  Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

Hurt Feelings Can Breed Blasphemy

Micah 3:5 (NLT)

This is what the LORD says:

“You false prophets are leading my people astray!
You promise peace for those who give you food,
But you declare war on those who refuse to feed you.”
 

Since early this morning, God has been telling me to declare these words to His people.  He began reminding me of how easy it is for us to tie our emotions into ministry, rather than hearing and speaking by the Holy Ghost.

I began to think of all the times I’ve seen prophets prophesy according to their hearts.  Just as it was in the days of Micah, so it is today in the church.  We’ve all seen the faithful church members who were blessed while they served, and cursed as soon as they went away.  For some reason, we have felt justified in blessing and cursing based on our own personal feelings about a person or a situation.  God refers to those who do this as FALSE prophets and teachers.

The LORD is reminding us today of what a TRUE enemy is.  An enemy is more than just someone who doesn’t agree with us.  A true enemy is more than just someone who has made us angry or disappointed. A true enemy extends far beyond the mere realm of disagreement. Even more, just because someone is an enemy to us doesn’t necessarily mean he or she is an enemy to God. 

Enemy = One who feels hatred toward, intends injury to, or opposes the interests of another; a foe; A person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something.

One who makes us angry is no more an enemy than one who makes us smile is a best friend.  Anger does not give us the right to pass judgment.  Neither does contentment or satisfaction give us the right to exalt.  We must know one another by the spirit, not after the flesh!  We must then act after the spirit, and speak as led of the Holy Ghost.

Many of us who claim the name of Christ have made a habit of rejoicing at the thought or idea that our enemies will be defeated.  In our minds, that tends to mean God will set a table of blessings in the midst of those who disagree with us… God will make a footstool of those who don’t support my ministry… All who didn’t recognize my anointing will be cursed… No weapon, or rebuke – even when justified, formed against us will prosper…  What do these things REALLY mean?  It’s about more than just our preferences.  Just because we don’t like a thing doesn’t mean it’s a weapon that won’t prosper.

My point is this.  Many are allowing emotions to make their ministry FALSE.  The integrity of many will be compromised due to emotional instability.  High emotion is not the same as high anointing!  That applies in praise, worship and every other facet of ministry, including our WORDS!  Emotions are separating us from God when we speak things we feel, rather than what God said.  Walking by the spirit requires that we be led by the Spirit, not our feelings.  Selah.

Learn to Be STILL

Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”

I am a person who likes to be busy.  There’s something about doing lots of “stuff” that makes us feel useful and valuable.  Yet, I hear God telling His people, “Learn to be STILL.”

Many of us were taught, through word or observation, that ministry is about busyness.  We were taught to find something to do and do it.  We were instructed to be “useful.”  Nevertheless, in this season, God is saying that His people are doing too much.  As my Apostle often says, we are moving with the arm of the flesh rather than by the Spirit of the living God!

Quite simply, if God didn’t say it, think twice before doing it.  We are building so many works, claiming they are for the Kingdom of God, yet God has not signed the building permit.  He has not ordained nor justified the work.  It is, therefore, in vain.

Even in my own ministry, God is teaching me the more to sit in His presence.  What some may view as a waste of time is actually an investment.  It’s during those time of stillness and meditation that God reveals His secrets and unleashes His power.  Sometimes, it’s okay to have nothing to do and nothing to say.  It’s okay to sit and just listen… Let God move, and let Him get the glory!

Just last week, I was praying about many of the online ministry tools that I have used over the years.  They are useful, yes, but God has had me in a place of calmness.  I no longer feel the PUSH to publish a newsletter every month or post words of encouragement and prophecy every week.  What some have seen as disorder is actually the fruit of God leading me the more.  As I mature in the things of God, He’s not releasing me to speak to the Body of Christ just because it’s the first of the month anymore.  He’s freeing me from the schedule and expectations of men.

Many have emailed or called making sure that I’m okay and “still in the game.”  The truth of the matter is that I’m better than ever.  God is perfecting me in certain areas so that I can become a master in my own arena rather than operating in the spirit as a “jack of all trades, and a master of none.”  He is doing the same (or trying) with many…

In this season, God is specializing His people.  Don’t be afraid to BE STILL in His presence.  He really is taking us someplace higher!  That means that a lot of things are being sloughed off in the spirit.

The Lord showed me an embryo.  When a baby first begins to grow, he or she is mass of cells that continue to multiply.  But, as that fetus matures, the cells begin to specialize.  The move to different regions of the embryo.  Some develop into the heart while others become a liver.  Soon enough, the fetus begins to form a face.  The baby grows until birth and suddenly has an identity.

This is what God is doing in the Body of Christ.  He is maturing us as a Body.  Therefore, every piece must specialize in its function and STAY THERE.  When the lungs are breathing, the heart can’t leave the job of beating to go and try to breath.  When a finger is severed, the tongue can’t just stop speaking to go and help pick up a piece of paper off the floor.

Teachers, stop trying to prophesy and let God perfect you as a teacher.  Intercessors, pray and stop trying to build conferences.  God wants to perfect you in prayer.  Apostles, stop trying to teach Sunday school class.  Let the teachers do that and you pray about the order of ministry.  Let God perfect you in wisdom and power.  This is a season of SPECIALIZING. 

“Be still,” says the LORD.  In our efforts to move and “do ministry” all over the place, we are causing great damage to the Body of Christ.  Would you go to a cardiologist to have your teeth worked on?  Would you visit a psychiatrist to have foot surgery?  Selah.

SELAH Moments

More SELAH moments for your meditation and encouragement…
 

·         Luke 7:50 says, "...he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace." FAITH STILL MATTERS. You may not be able to explain or exegete everything, but BELIEVE GOD! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         James 5:9 "Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you [yourselves] may not be judged..." It never fails... after Sunday morning services, people flood Facebook and Twitter with their complaints and sarcastic, judgmental messages about the services they attended. There's no power in just seeing the problem. The power is in becoming part of the solution. Those who are anointed DO... those who can't gossip and complain. No complaining church folk allowed in this NEW SEASON!

·         John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." And that's the bottom line... It's a NEW SEASON!

·         "And you shall love the Lord your God with all your [mind and] heart and with your entire being and with all your might" Deuteronomy 6:5 (AMP). Don't allow your "heart strings" to pull you away from God. Love NOTHING and NO ONE more than HIM! It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." In math, we were introduced to the ORDER OF OPERATIONS. Unless you solve the problem in the right order, you will not get the correct answer. Selah. It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         "When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things" (1 Corinthians 13:11). Strive to hear these words, in the Spirit... "My, how you've grown!" It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         EVERYONE has something to teach and something to learn! Never become too scared to lead or too arrogant to follow. It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         WATCHMEN, wake up! God is calling us to watch and pray, even in the night when sleep seems so sweet. WAKE UP! Luke 12:37-38 "Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching... And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants." It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         ‎1 Corinthians 4:20 "For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power." Don't just talk, decree and declare... DO! It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         Hebrews 13:17 AMP "Obey your spiritual leaders and submit to them [continually recognizing their authority over you], for they are constantly keeping watch over your souls and guarding your spiritual welfare, as men who will have to render an account [of their trust]. [Do your part to] let them do this with gladness and not with sighing and groaning, for that would not be profitable to you [either]." KNOW your leaders. If they don't have time to KNOW you... pray for you... speak to you... counsel you... they are not YOUR leaders. It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         Mark 16:15 "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Matthew 28:19 "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." What is the common theme? GO! People of God, it's time to get out of our comfort zones. Everyone wants to preach to church folk, but where are the SOUL WINNERS? Who is going to save the lost? There's so much more to ministry than another conference, blog, YouTube video or Bible study for the "saints"... It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         ‎1 Corinthians 4:15-16 "For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me." Good spiritual leaders are hard to come by. When we have them, they should be respected and cherished, not ridiculed, challenged, abused or taken for granted. Believe it or not, there are still some good, sound holy preachers of the Gospel. They are called REMNANT, and God is pushing them forward. It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         Romans 10:14-15a "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent?" Being talented and having a gift is not good enough. Were you SENT by God? No such thing as an anointed trespasser... It's a NEW SEASON. 

·         JESUS... Still my final answer!!! 

·         Hear the warning of the LORD - Isaiah 57:12 "I will expose your [pretended] righteousness and your doings, but they will not help you." This is the season of the REAL... diamonds and pearls, rather than cubic zirconia and glass... In the spirit realm, stop everything that is not authentic. It won't help, anyway. God is uncovering... It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         We must be careful not to share and brag about everything we do in ministry. It makes us an easy target for the enemy! Selah. It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         Deuteronomy 10:17 "For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward." We will learn that our God is indeed TERRIBLE. He is not to be played with. God is real. His mercy is plentiful, but His judgment is inevitable. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. Don't get it twisted... It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         "...all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come" (Job 14:14). Sometimes, the assignment is to WAIT, STAND and ENDURE. Don't be deceived... Don't miss God trying to be busy, though not led. It's a NEW SEASON! 

·         Intimacy in worship is PERSONAL. Not EVERYTHING that happens in the prayer closet is to be repeated. Some of that rebuke is for YOU. It's a NEW SEASON!

If you would like to receive daily words of inspiration, follow me on Twitter @ProphetJoy.

What Esteem Do You Have for Your Brother?

So by whatever [appeal to you there is in our mutual dwelling in Christ, by whatever] strengthening and consoling and encouraging [our relationship] in Him [affords], by whatever persuasive incentive there is in love, by whatever participation in the [Holy] Spirit [we share], and by whatever depth of affection and compassionate sympathy, Fill up and complete my joy by living in harmony and being of the same mind and one in purpose, having the same love, being in full accord and of one harmonious mind and intention. Do nothing from factional motives [through contentiousness, strife, selfishness, or for unworthy ends] or prompted by conceit and empty arrogance. Instead, in the true spirit of humility (lowliness of mind) let each regard the others as better than and superior to himself [thinking more highly of one another than you do of yourselves]. Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interests, but also each for the interests of others.

Philippians 2:1-4 (AMP)


What esteem do you have for your brother?

In the Body of Christ, we often have a hard time understanding that others should always be regarded as “better than and superior” to ourselves. Such a mentality and esteem would certainly help us to remain humble.

Believe it or not, the Body of Christ should be serving one another, not JUST leaders. In fact, every leader called by God is a SERVANT LEADER, meaning that we must serve the same people we are called to lead. Humility is certainly a fine, but rare commodity in the church. Yet, it is necessary.

There is no room for ego within the realm of true anointing. There is no time for showboating within the realm of God’s dunamis power.

Here’s a challenge – Take at least one moment each day to encourage, serve and esteem someone else in the Body of Christ. Despite our own titles, positions, calls or anointings, let’s take at least one opportunity per day to get quiet and listen to someone else. Make someone else’s agenda more important.

AND DON’T COUNT IT AS WEAKNESS!

It’s a NEW SEASON!

SELAH Moments

·         Those who walk in KINGDOM AUTHORITY don't need carnal hook-ups! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         “Who is there among you who is wise and intelligent? Then let him by his noble living show forth his [good] works with the [unobtrusive] humility [which is the proper attribute] of true wisdom.” James 3:13 (AMP) Enough said! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Nehemiah 8:10 "...for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength." Be STRONG in the LORD (Ephesians 6:10) on today. After all that I've been through, I still have JOY! Godliness with contentment is GREAT gain (1 Timothy 6:6)! If you are saved and HAPPY to serve our God, say AMEN!

·         Psalm 42:11 "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God." People of God, the spirit of depression is attacking the saints like never before. You better encourage YOURSELF in the Lord, by HIS WORD and give Him the praise ANYHOW! He's worthy! Rebuke that spirit. The joy of the LORD is your strength! I feel like preachin'!

·         Mat 11:28-29 "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me... and ye shall find rest unto your souls." I thank God for His REST! Hallelujah! There is JOY in following Christ. There is a REFUGE for those that seek Him. Come and exhale! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Hebrews 10:25 "Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching." I'm excited about church today! As believers, assembly and fellowship with the saints is VERY important. Yes, you MUST go to church! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth..." To be ashamed means "reluctant to do something through fear of embarrassment or humiliation (Google dictionary). Have you changed your message to please others, get an "Amen" or raise a large offering? No more! When the shame leaves, the POWER will be manifested! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         I'm not a politician. I don't always say or do the right thing. I am often misunderstood. I am nothing, but with Christ, I can do all things. I love God and I love His people. My desire is to bring Him glory with my life. That's all. I can't and don't do "churchology", just holiness. Plain and simple... love for the Father. I know who I am, because I know the I AM. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Matthew 15:32 "Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat..." LEADERS, let's not forget that Jesus had compassion for those that followed Him. He was aware of both their spiritual and natural needs. Those we lead and teach are REAL PEOPLE with real feelings, real needs and real thoughts. We must never forget these are GOD's people, precious and special. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Jeremiah 18:6 "O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does? says the Lord. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel." God makes, calls and sends us according to His own will, not our own. Self-appointment will never please God! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Exodus 33:14-15 "And the Lord said, My Presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest. And Moses said to the Lord, If Your Presence does not go with me, do not carry us up from here!" I refuse to move without the presence of God! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         I thank GOD for the day I met the best preacher and teacher in the world... the greatest apostle and prophet... the most active evangelist and miracle-worker... a friend and a comforter... The only person I want to emulate and duplicate... JESUS CHRIST! There's nobody like Him, though I'll spend my life trying to be just like Him. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Exodus 33:14-15 "And the Lord said, My Presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest. And Moses said to the Lord, If Your Presence does not go with me, do not carry us up from here!" If only we would refuse to move without the presence of God! Selah. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6). "COEXIST" is an impossibility. No one can live by "many teachers". Make a decision for CHRIST today. It's impossible for "all the teachers" to be right. After all Buddha is dead. Mohammad is dead. Shall I go on? I have proof that my God lives - I speak to Him and hear His voice everyday. His word is true. Decision made! Selah.

·         Colossians 4:6 "Let your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned [as it were] with salt, [so that you may never be at a loss] to know how you ought to answer anyone [who puts a question to you]."

·         ‎2 Chronicles 7:14 "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." Make preparation for the healing. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         OBSERVATION TIME: I decided to visit a number of websites today. I'm often late to fulfill the invitations. What I see, though, is quite disturbing. So many sites for "ministry" that really share no Gospel at all. So many are just full of bios, resumes and egos... It's idolatry on the web! People of God, let's use the resources God has given us to glorify HIM! If we want our own websites for self-glory, let's not call it "ministry." It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Deuteronomy 18:18 "I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him." Notice, the prophet speaks ONLY what God gives and commands... Not what he wishes, thinks or wants in his own flesh. Back to the basics! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         ‎2 Peter 1:20 "[Yet] first [you must] understand this, that no prophecy of Scripture is [a matter] of any personal or private or special interpretation (loosening, solving)." Revelation is given by the Holy Ghost, and He is NOT schizophrenic. When we preach the Gospel, somebody, somewhere should have some agreement. Teachers and preachers MUST be able to take rebuke and correction. Don't become a cult leader... It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Galatians 4:16 - "Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?" If the truth of God's word makes you uncomfortable, don't get too comfortable with me. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         John 6:60 (AMP) "When His disciples heard this, many of them said, This is a hard and difficult and strange saying (an offensive and unbearable message). Who can stand to hear it? [Who can be expected to listen to such teaching?]" When you preach truth, it won't always be received. People will say you are too "hard, strict, particular..." Jesus also preached an "offensive and unbearable message," but it was that message that brought life! DON'T SELL OUT! It's a NEW SEASON!!!

·         Lamentations 2:14 "Your prophets have predicted for you falsehood and delusion and foolish things; and they have not exposed your iniquity and guilt to avert your captivity [by causing you to repent]. But they have divined and declared to you false and deceptive prophecies, worthless and misleading." The TRUE prophetic will also lead to repentance... not earthly gain. Prophecy that neglects repentance, correction and instruction is divination. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         I am not a motivational speaker... Not a life coach nor a gospel entertainer... I am a preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! It's not due to my education, good works or any other qualification, but only by the grace of God. Lord, I thank you, and the least I can give is my life. Here I am... use me! It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Acts 19:15 "And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?" Does hell know your name? Selah. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         JESUS... still my final answer!

·         Romans 11:4 "But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal." People of God, walking in the boldness of the Holy Ghost and the integrity of God is often lonely. Nevertheless, never forget that God has a remnant. We cannot allow our persecutions and loneliness to transform into pride. It's a NEW SEASON!!!

·         ‎1 Cor 7:4 says "The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife." The two have become one, and that's a GOOD thing. We don't become any less by having a good marriage, inclusive of true love and SUBMISSION. It really is a GOOD thing... Don't let pride rob you of a good marriage in this NEW SEASON!!!

·         A question was asked of me this morning, "How many souls have you led to Christ this month?" What a sobering thought. The same should be asked each week and each day. This is the measure of our success in ministry. Who has turned to or been restored to Christ, based on our ministry? It's a NEW SEASON.

·         John 8:31-32 "Then said Jesus... If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." We must DO His Word to belong to Him... Today, let's pray for those who have an identity crisis. Selah.

·         We must always remember that GOD wants things done decently and in order. He sends His rebuke, because He loves us. It should be embraced, that we can grow in Him. Truly, if we understand the call of the Apostles and the Prophets, we will expect and receive God's instruction through them. Selah. Long story short... Don't invite God's mouthpiece if you don't want to hear His instruction. It's a NEW SEASON!

·         Colossians 2:16-17 "Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ". Get FREE! Enough said... It's a NEW SEASON!

·         "Live as though CHRIST died yesterday, rose from the grave today and is coming back tomorrow" - Theodore H Epp (Founder of Back to the Bible). It's a NEW SEASON!

If these daily thoughts inspire you, follow me on Twitter @ProphetJoy.

God bless!

Walk Off the Cliff... By Faith, Not by Sight!

While in prayer, the LORD showed me a vision that I must share concerning faith and obedience.


In the vision, He first showed me an army.  There were thousands of men, lined up in perfect rows.  They were armed with swords and shields.  When the General gave them orders to march, they began moving, as a group, toward a cliff.


The army marched, as they were ordered, and men on the first few rows began marching right off the cliff, which appeared to be very steep.  The strange thing to me was that the men in the back didn’t stop, though they saw others go over.  Though they were faced with death, they kept moving.


The LORD began to speak to me about His people.  He said that the Church, in this season, is afraid of what the world sees as death and defeat.  When God gives us orders, we see a cliff and halt.  Yet, a soldier understands that orders should be obeyed at every cost.


I was astounded at the obedience of the men.  They walked right off the cliff, in unison, as they were directed.  Then, the LORD showed me the same scene at a different angle.  When I was able to look behind the cliff, I saw the army of the enemy at the base.  The cliff that the soldiers walked over appeared to be hundreds of feet steep from the first view.  Now, I saw it was more like 8 feet steep – just deep enough for the soldiers to disappear as they walked off.


Then, I saw that as they walked off the cliff, they trampled on the enemy’s heads.  Glory to GOD! 


Fear is the enemy to obedience, and obedience is the foundation to faith.  God is trying to take the Body of Christ to a place of spiritual power, so we cannot allow physical, natural cliffs to hinder us.  Trust God.  He is greater!

Possessing Worthy Fruit

Luke 3 (AMP)

7 So he said to the crowds who came out to be baptized by him, You offspring of vipers! Who secretly warned you to flee from the coming wrath?

8 Bear fruits that are deserving and consistent with [your] repentance [that is, conduct worthy of a heart changed, a heart abhorring sin]. And do not begin to say to yourselves, We have Abraham as our father; for I tell you that God is able from these stones to raise up descendants for Abraham.

9 Even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees, so that every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and cast into the fire.

10 And the multitudes asked him, Then what shall we do?

11 And he replied to them, He who has two tunics (undergarments), let him share with him who has none; and he who has food, let him do it the same way.

12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they said to him, Teacher, what shall we do?

13 And he said to them, Exact and collect no more than the fixed amount appointed you.

14 Those serving as soldiers also asked him, And we, what shall we do? And he replied to them, Never demand or enforce by terrifying people or by accusing wrongfully, and always be satisfied with your rations (supplies) and with your allowance (wages).

15 As the people were in suspense and waiting expectantly, and everybody reasoned and questioned in their hearts concerning John, whether he perhaps might be the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).

16 John answered them all by saying, I baptize you with water; but He Who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of Whose sandals I am not fit to unfasten. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.



One thing is sure and has not changed with time - Actions still speak louder than words!  John the Baptist, as he is preparing for the coming of Jesus Christ, greets those who have come to be baptized with a word of correction and rebuke.  In fact, he requests of them the source of their "secret" acquisition of information concerning Christ.  John is clearly very serious about Christ and very adamantly against the false and empty religious actions of the people.

In verse 8, he demands something interesting of the people... that they bear fruit!  Oftentimes, in the Body of Christ, we are very quick to refer to ourselves and others as "saved", "born again", "believers" or even "man/woman of God."  Nevertheless, we fail to examine the FRUIT.

Jesus taught very clearly that a tree is known by its fruit.  So, why have we forsaken the judgment of the same?  John requires those who have been baptized to bear fruit that is both worthy and consistent with repentance.  In other words, they MUST DO SOMETHING!  These people understood that to follow Christ, things must change.  They clearly recognized that requirements came with the claim of salvation.

In fact, the Scripture goes on to say that many of those meeting John recognized their faults and asked him, "What shall we do?"  He responded with actions of change.  Deal honestly, give to others, love your neighbor.  We see these same teachings later echoed by Jesus Christ, Himself.

There is a huge debate in the Body of Christ about the use of titles, but I submit that we should take yet another step back.  The greatest title to wear is that of a Christian, someone who follows Christ.  Yet, this title is almost never contested.  People wear it and claim it, but often lack the fruit that comes with it.  Let us examine ourselves today.  Do we bear fruit that is worthy of and consistent with repentance?  Do we allow those that surround us to claim the name of Christ without challenging them to look like Christ?  Selah.