The Anointing Attracts Attacks. It’s Costly. A Mantle Can Be Heavy. God Establishes It. You Can’t Select or Ask For It! Don’t Do It.

Another long post. Sorry…been on my mind.

God will not put us where he has not equipped us to do what he called us to do. Listen, a mantle isn’t something we ask for. Nor do we get to ‘select’ it for or ‘self-appoint’ it to ourselves.

God establishes and destines it. He ordains it. Don’t get it twisted. God call, appoint, anoint, and will position us to attain our God-given destiny. It will happen in his timing.

The anointing attracts attacks. Some call it the “anointing attract attack.” There are those that want to drink from your cup but not pour in it. They want what you have without putting in the work to get it. Then there are some who will count your blessings instead of their own.

And as crazy as this may sound, there are some who would if they could copycat the anointing of the Holy Spirit and apply it to their own lives. Some people will even go as far as to imitate your God-given anointing instead of operating in their own. They see your glory but don’t know your story or what it took for you to get where you are. They want the outcome without the process. Sorry, that’s not how it works.

The anointing cost. The oil is not cheap. It comes with a price. Dying to self, loss of pride, position, and power, loss of family and friends, and loss of financial security just to name a few, are par for the course. The anointing is not transferable. Nor may it feel good. Regardless, you are called to carry out the work of God. God sent it. When He commands, do it.

Activating the anointing is to yield to God and allow the Holy Spirit to live and work through you. Die to self. Commit to God. Be willing and faithful to serve and disciplined to do the work. This helps build character. Remember, process comes before promotion. God will provide every resource necessary to get the job done. Allow God to use you in ways you cannot imagine.

A spiritual mantle can be heavy. When God calls you to an assignment the burden of carrying it out sometimes may seem difficult. But here’s some good news. The anointing makes it lighter. It empowers us. It protects us. It breaks the yoke. Isaiah 10:27 tells us, “It shall come to pass in that day that his burden will be taken away from your shoulder, and his yoke from your neck, and the yoke will be destroyed because of the anointing oil.” Be glad about it.

There is never a reason to envy someone’s anointing. What God has for you is for you. We are called. We have been set apart by God for a special purpose. Learn to be content with what you have. Walk in your anointing, not theirs. God is always up to something. No one can ever take from you what God has for you. Stay faithful.

Through every trial, remember this. God is redeeming, developing, preparing, and setting you up for something greater for His purpose. There may be a long wait period. Wait on God. Don’t give up. Press your way. He is faithful.

If they only knew the weight of the mantle you carry they wouldn’t envy your anointing so much. It’s heavy. They have no idea what it takes to do what God called you to do. Don’t you worry yourself though. You’ve been picked out to be picked on. On purpose. Do what God called you to do.  #Selah

Be blessed! – JD

2 Corinthians 1:21, 22 “Now it is God who establishes and confirms us [in joint fellowship] with you in Christ, and who has anointed us [empowering us with the gifts of the Spirit]; ²² it is He who has also put His seal on us [that is, He has appropriated us and certified us as His] and has given us the [Holy] Spirit in our hearts as a pledge [like a security deposit to guarantee the fulfillment of His promise of eternal life].”(AMP)

Trials Are Preparation for God’s Purpose. Don’t Regret the Process. Trust God. It’s Handled. You Are on Your Way to Something Greater!

Sorry for the long post… God sent me a gentle reminder.

Do you notice sometimes when you’re being impatient and you pray and ask God for patience, he will send you trouble to train you? Or sometimes when you’re desperate and you pray and ask God for deliverance, he will send you trouble to develop you? He is preparing you for what’s to come. Your faith will be tested before he promotes you to your next level of destiny.

What if behind closed doors that held utmost secrets of what has not gone right in your life compelled you to think about these things? All the, “If I would have, should have, could have” or “had not, could not, or should not” have done, and it seems like you’re going in circles hoping something changes for the better but nothing’s happening? What or where would your life be if you were given another chance to do things differently? Would you do it? Would it matter? What do you think? Is it mind over matter? Or could it be your perception of what could have been better? Or what if it seems like it won’t get better? Now what?

What I’ve discovered in this thing called life, for every season there is a trial to test your faith in God or trouble will come to test your endurance. How we handle the evidence of change will determine our success. Or even our failure. It’s all in our perception. There is nothing God does not allow or ordain without his permission. Acceptance is key to understanding how we respond to some or all situations. I call it “Mindset Matters.”

The next time you’re feeling defeated and it seems like nothing and I mean nothing is going right or it looks like there is no way out of your situation. Remember we serve a mighty God that can and will do the impossible. Don’t think about “what you would have, could have, should have, or had not done.” Change your mindset. Accept trials as preparation for God’s purpose to be fulfilled in your life. The process will be painful but it is required. It may take longer than you expect, but it will be necessary to go through to get to where God needs to take you in your next level of destiny.

Get your mind right. Ponder on the goodness of God. Don’t get impatient with God. Don’t give up. Persevere. Wait on Him. Don’t question why you’re going through the inevitable, why bad things keep happening, nothing’s changing for the better, or trials seem to be getting more difficult without any results. Because sometimes there is no rhyme or reason for it. God is looking for your faithfulness. Trust Him in the process. Don’t regret past decisions you’ve made or live in the past only to miss out on your future. Rejoice in the Lord. Look at God! You made it. Walk in your calling.

There’s a time and a season for everything under the sun. God’s timing is perfect. Trust Him. #Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Hebrews 10:36 “For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.” (ESV)

When God says, “It is So.” Don’t Second Guess Him. Listen. It is So. Believe Him.

Thus saith the Lord…

Sometimes no matter how much we may depend on valuable resources for answers to common everyday problems or circumstances, we can become perplexed knowing the right thing to do. Yet when God answers what we’ve prayed for and instructs us to follow his will, according to his word, his way, we follow his instructions without hesitation; by faith.

Then moments or a day later we still have problems listening to him and will look for a different answer to the already answered prayer and can’t find it. What do we call that? Doubt? Fear? O ye of little faith? What say you? Funny thing, God not only answered our prayers but orchestrated the very things he knew we needed to complete the task. Everything fell into place suddenly, not by coincidence or with rhyme or reason. It was all God.

In the meantime, a stranger shows up, sent by God, with a request of the very thing we were planning to quit on, not knowing our pending decision. God sent another answer to our prayers. An ordinary stranger to tell us what we needed to hear right at that moment. To remind us of God’s word and his promises. We step out on faith and do what he says.

Then… there we go again. At a moment’s notice our mind begins to play tricks on us, making us believe the right answer didn’t come from God. We start listening to the lies of the enemy to change our mind. Looking for a different answer from God’s. But we can’t find a thing to replace his decision. Nothing works out as we plan. His answer still stands.

We get discouraged because we followed his instructions but nothing happened right away. Do you believe it can be because we expected a different result when looking at what’s in front of us instead of believing what we can’t see that’s unknown to us? “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor 5:7). Or could it be in that moment of assuredness, God is testing us in areas we unknowingly are dealing with before he elevates us to our next level of destiny?

Know this. What we can be assured of, when God sends a clear message we may be resistant to, he will use a stranger, a profound moving encounter, or an immediate change of heart to speak to us. He’s never failing. He wants the best for us. He never leaves anything half done. His plan will work and end as he ordained. It cannot be thwarted. It is certain. God will accomplish his purpose just as he established. He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus (Phil 1:6).

So when God answers your prayers and it seems like nothing is happening. Trust that God is working behind the scenes setting some things up to move you into your next level of destiny. Your season is almost over. It’s almost done. He’s preparing you for your NEXT. Don’t let the opinions of others or things distract you from God’s intended purpose. Stand. Keep it moving.

And if nothing else remember this. Oftentimes God can bring the greatest joy through some of our most painful experiences. It’s all in our perception. Expect the unexpected. It may not be the answer we are looking for but expect any answer will be for our greater good. God said it. I believe it. That settles it. #Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Psalm 25:4-5 “Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.” (ESV)

Grow Upward and Go. Go and Grow Upward. Don’t Give Up. Walk In Your Purpose!

You know what? The devil is well aware the day of reckoning is coming one day. And he’s trying his best to take as many as possible along with him. He will use any thorn in your side, be it your circumstances, family, friends, or foes to kill, steal, and destroy and bring trouble and confusion in your life.

You may wish you didn’t have that thorn in your flesh. Nor do you like it one bit. It may be stressing you to the point you want to quit. Don’t give up. Don’t you dare do it! Don’t ask God to remove it. Trust God’s grace is sufficient to endure through what’s distressing you the most. For his power is made perfect in weakness. You will get through it.

For every new level comes a new devil, and seasons of testing. We already know. It may be difficult. God is setting you up for something better. Trust the process. The enemy starts early in the morning as soon as you wake up. He got a peek of what’s coming. He’s on a mission. He will use everything in his weaponry arsenal to annihilate God’s plan. Aha…He never wins!

Seasons. They change. They come with weather conditions. Storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, rain, sunshine, dry, wet, hot, and cold are part of the norm. Isn’t it funny we experience the same or similar conditions in our lives? Seasons are constant. Change is inevitable. In the midst of it all, still…give God glory.

The next time your life takes a change in a different direction, you’re wondering what’s going on, and you feel like giving up. Remember seasons are constant. They are part of the process. Don’t you dare do it! You’re in a new season. God is up to something. Trust Him. Every day. He’s faithful. First thing in the morning while you’re thinking, THANK God. Move forward. Grow upward and go. Go and grow upward. Walk in your purpose!

Do not be dismayed. For he is our God. He will strengthen us and help us; He will uphold us with his righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10). Be encouraged. God got you!

Be blessed! – JD

Philippians 3:14 “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (KJV)

You Got The Victory. Speak It Into Existence. It’s Already Done. God Promise. Prayer Works!

Dear God, good morning. First and foremost, I simply want to say, “Thank you.” Regardless of what happens today, you will get the glory.

There is so much going on in the lives of your people. It grieves my heart. Everywhere I look, I see and hear there are many whose faith is being tested in ways they have never experienced. Finances, health, marriages, and families are being attacked in ways they have never seen before. Lord we need you now more than ever.

I’m interceding in prayer, on behalf of each and every one. Cover every family from the top of their heads to the soles of their feet. Send FRESH anointing. Meet every need. Let there be no lack. Break every chain. Reverse the curse of poverty, sickness, disease, or struggle. Jesus be a fence all around us. Lord God you already know our situation. It’s already taken care of. You are our rock. Our redeemer. You can do the impossible. For your burden is light and your yoke is easy. When we can’t trace you God, we trust you.

Mend broken hearts, heal sick bodies, comfort those who have lost loved ones, and deliver those going through what seems impossible to overcome. You say in your word, “Come to me, all you who are weary and I will give you rest” (Matt 11:28). We cast our cares upon you, O God. Send rest for the weary and heavy burdened. I come against every demonic plot, plan, trick and scheme of the enemy to kill, steal, and destroy. Return it back to the sender undelivered!

Devil, you are a liar and the truth ain’t in you! Go seek dry bones. The Lord will fight our battles. Let not our hearts be troubled. For you are sovereign, O God. You are our refuge in times of trouble. And let us be confident of this, that he who began a good work in us will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus (Phil 1:6). There’s nothing too hard for you God. We give you honor, glory and praise. This is my prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen and amen!

Be blessed! – JD

1 John 5:14-15 “And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.” (ESV)

God Ordained You For the Task Before You Were Born. You’re On Assignment. Have No Fear. Just Gone And Do It!

I’m on one today! I got something to say. Boy, I miss my blog. This is my last one for the day. I promise. Here goes….

Sometimes you got to make up in your mind it’s either me and I or me and God against the world when the spirit of discontentment creeps in your mind convincing you, you are not usable to God. I rebuke that spirit!!

Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world. You are more than a conqueror. The joy of the Lord you have the world did not give it to you, and the world cannot take it away from you.

I woke one morning after a long week of discontentment, fear, and doubt with the way my life was going. Uncertain of the direction I was headed. God put a stop to that mess! He led me to a comforting word in the Book of Daniel that reminded me of his faithfulness. No matter what we face, it is in our times of testing we will witness the power of God. It is better to use obstacles as opportunities to serve God and help others than to do the opposite of what you know in your heart to be true; God’s Word.

Take a leap of faith and run with it. Don’t ever stop sharing the gospel. Use the gifts God has graciously given you for free. Someone somewhere needs what you’re carrying. Whether you preach or teach the Word of God, we all have a ministry and can be used by God.

The book of Daniel reminded me of this. Times of trials can mean many things. “Recognize them as opportunities to strengthen your faith” (Daniel 11:33-34). Remain steadfast in your experiences, no matter what. You will be stronger in your faith and closer to God. Don’t let nothing stop you from reaching your next level of destiny. God has great things stored up for you. Don’t get weary in well-doing. For in due season you shall reap a reward, if you faint not.

Trust in God. He counted you worthy. Don’t miss you blessing!

Be blessed! – JD

Galatians 6:10 “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (ESV)

Your Purpose is Predestined. When God Confirms A Thing, He Will Reveal It. Stay Ready!

Oftentimes it amazes me when God wakes us in the wee hours of the morning to bring something to our attention he needs us to know. And will lead us to a word that will confirm his purpose and reveal his promises.

There is not a moment in our lives when we will not face trials or trouble meant to distract, destroy, or deter us from reaching our destiny. We become fearful and lose faith. We stumble and fall. We want to stay in our comfort zone because it’s easier to manipulate the known rather than face the unknown.

But God has a way of coming at us in our comfort zone to get through to us. He wants to push us out of the box into the marvelous. Transition and life changes can be the most challenging experiences for us. Yet these moments are times testing our faith. Be not discouraged. It’s for a greater purpose.

Tests transforms us as diamonds in the rough. I believe trials and transformation go hand and hand together. Trials are part of the refining process to build our faith and strengthen us. They don’t define us. They refine us. God uses trials to develop our character. Be open to life changes. You never know. That trial you’re going through can be a part of God’s big plan for you. Stay ready, willing, and able.

If you are faced with a situation or circumstance beyond your control or a life change you are uncertain of. And you begin to stumble or fall, remind yourself of the mighty God we serve. He is able to do the impossible. He is in control.

Be immovable, steadfast no matter what it looks like today. You are an overcomer. Persevere in your faith. God will reward your obedience. Stand firm. Believe the Word of God. Be not dismayed. God got you! #Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Ephesians 1:11 “In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will,” (ESV)

 

Talk is Cheap. Stop Playing With God. Israelite-Like Flattery Isn’t Required. Take Up Your Cross Daily!

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead in the way everlasting (Psalm 139:23-24). Sorry for the long post.

There are times in our lives when we may experience pure joy. We are living our best lives to the fullest. Everything is going good. Better than we expect. Then all of a sudden something happens. Our life goes from good to bad, in an instant, without our expecting it. Heartbreak and turmoil are at the forefront. We need Jesus now, more than ever.

Many of us make the mistake whenever things are bad we seek God. When things are going good, we forget God. We brag about what it is we have done, things we’ve accomplished without giving recognition to God. We are high on ourselves and have ourselves to thank for things we’ve acquired or done. The center of attention is on us. Everything we have or have done has to be announced to the world for validation.

LISTEN…Nothing is more dangerous than being a casual Christian. Seeking God’s hand and not his face because you got a breakthrough you were looking for. And you’re not ready to take up your cross and lose your reputation, friends, jobs, or material possessions to follow Jesus. We must be careful not to box God in. Or forgot who is in charge. God is. He is in control of everything in this earth.

What happens when all of a sudden trouble comes, you’re on empty, and you cry out to God, “Fill my cup. Fill me up?” You eagerly turn to him, AGAIN, the moment things go south. Your situation is worse than you ever thought. It is out of control. You seek God because the waves of the sea shifted, the tides turned, the winds won’t behave, and hurricanes begin to form in your circumstances.

You turn to God for help. But….you forgot about him as long as you were full of yourself and got all you wanted. You became content in your present forgetting about your future; for a moment.

You didn’t blink twice about God. And now you need him because you are distressed. You want to make a commitment to God because you have trouble. And it is then and only then you want him to change you in the face of it. You remind of him how wonderful, marvelous, great He is. You flatter him with your words. Be careful what you say and how you carry yourself. HUSH! Let the life you live for Jesus speak for itself.

Talk is cheap. Flattery will get you nowhere. Stop playing with God. Don’t be like the Israelites who made more of a commitment to God with their mouths and not their hearts. Let your conduct back up your spiritual claims. Don’t be a casual Christian with God. Seek his face, and not his hand. Don’t look for him only when you need him to do something for you.

Be consistent in your living a life for God. Let your life be a living example of Jesus who lives within you. Take up your cross daily. Die to self. Follow God. No matter how much temporary clout you’re carrying, don’t let the ways of this world cause you to fit in and not stand out. You were never made to fit in. Believe that! #Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Matthew 6:32-33 “For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (ESV)

It Can Happen…Today…One Day…Any Day. Your Life Can Change in an Instant. Be Ready. Your FaceTime Moment With God Can Happen At Any Moment!

IT CAN HAPPEN…

TODAY…We all will be where someone may be right now. ONE DAY…We all will be where someone has been before. ANY DAY…We all will be where we’ve never been before.

Losing something or someone of value that can never be replaced. Losing hope when situations knock the life out of us and we hit rock bottom. Losing hope in life when our faith is deeply tested and we don’t know where to turn. I say, Still BELIEVE.

God sees us in the lowest places and will help us. He wouldn’t get us through it if he didn’t put it in us. God knows EVERYTHING about us. He will never, ever fail us. Trouble can rear its ugly head at a moment’s notice. Stay ready. NEVER take life for granted. Believing it will always be as it is now because it can change in a split second; without any warning. Stay ready.

Right now…right time…right thing…right person…right plan….God knows exactly what he’s going to do, when he’s going to do it, and how it’s going to be done. Trust the process. Don’t miss this. God does his best work when we are at our lowest point in life. This is where he gets our attention. It is our “FACETIME” moment with God. It’s you and Him alone. When you’ve done all you can do and give it to God, He takes over. He works on what you cannot do on your own.

You will witness evidence of his power, his mercy, and his grace by yourself, alone. You will see the power of God in ways you’ve never imagined. His will shall be done. God will never leave anything undone. What He starts, he finishes. He can turn the worst thing you imagine into the best thing he already established. He promise.

Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. Our God is greater. God you are greater than any obstacle or opposition that may come against us. You are greater than any trial or trouble that was meant to destroy us. You are greater than poisoned arrows the enemy shoots daily at us, designed to defeat us. We are victorious. There’s nobody greater than our God. We can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens us. -#Selah

Be Blessed! – JD

Ecclesiastes 9:10 “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.” (NKJV)

Let This Be Your #2020 RESOLVE. Obey God. Get You Some Ride or Die Friends Like Daniel, Meshach, Shadrach, and Abednego!

My wish for your #2020RESOLVE:

For those of you planning your fantabulous resolution(s) as 2020 approaches, think about making a RESOLVE to be like Daniel and his three friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who were committed to action no matter the consequences.

Resolve to be loyal to God’s kingdom. Refuse to bow down to any earthly image or anything or anyone that does not honor God. Resolve to obey God. Make the right choices that he may be glorified. Resolve to trust God. Refuse to give up your convictions or quit to please the world. Resolve to stay faithful to God. Make a habit to communicate with God and put into practice your convictions and do what He says no matter what happens.

Resolve to not judge, gossip about, or dwell on the opinions of others. Dismiss the haters and naysayers who will throw you in a den of hungry lions to devour you because they want nothing but to see you fail. Resolve to let them go and wish them well.

Resolve to have some ride or die friends like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in your inner circle who are committed, dedicated, and determined to serve God regardless of the consequences. Resolve to never compromise your faith in God. No matter how difficult the journey you will travel in a foreign land not knowing the outcome. Resolve to not despair no matter what you’re facing or the trials you may endure. Persist in prayer and not in power for personal glory.

Watch how God work on your behalf. Watch how He intervene and stop the enemy in his tracks. Watch how He save you. Watch how He protect you. He’s sovereign. He got your back. RESOLVE 2020 is gone be better than ever before. RESOLVE to live a godly life for God’s glory! #Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Daniel 3:16-18 “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, ‘O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.'” (NIV)

God, We Just Want To Say, “THANK YOU!” No Special Reason. Just Because. You’re Just That Good To Us!

God, there are not enough words or times in the day to say thank you, for all you’ve done, are doing, and will do in our lives. There are not enough prayers we could pray that have been answered or unanswered we can say thank you, for knowing what was best for us. There are not enough trials or seasons we’ve been tested, tried, or troubled we can say thank you, for bringing us through what seemed impossible to overcome.

God, we just want to take a moment and say, “THANK YOU,” for more than enough! Grace and more grace when there’s more month than money, more bills than bank account balances, and more than whatever is too much for us to handle. Your grace is sufficient. Thank you God! We love you and we give you ALL the glory! -#Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (NIV)

Backslider Huh? Yes Enemy, I Most Certainly Am. Don’t Be Afraid to Admit That You Are. God is Married to the Backslider. Ain’t That Good News!

#MyMyMyMonday

Listen, the devil is on a mission every day. He’s so bold and conniving. And won’t stop at nothing to frustrate God’s purpose. You already know.

Be bolder! Stop him in his tracks. Don’t forget God’s promises. Clap back. Tell him, “Get outta here with that mess!”Th e God I serve ain’t having it.

My God is faithful. I’m so glad. God is married to the backslider. Ain’t that good news!

Be blessed! – JD

Jeremiah 3:14 ‘Return, O faithless children [of the twelve tribes],’ says the Lord, ‘For I am a master and husband to you, And I will take you [not as a nation, but individually]—one from a city and two from a [tribal] family—And I will bring you to Zion.’ (AMP)

The Anointing Ain’t Cheap. Have You Counted the Cost? It’s Expensive. Get Out Your Feelings! Do What God Called You to Do. Now Just Do It!

Have you counted the cost of activating the anointing God placed on your life? Or what you are willing to give up to follow Jesus? Or die to self and live for God? Boy, I tell you. It ain’t cheap. It’s costly. It comes with a price. Are you willing? What say you?

Oftentimes we’re okay being comfortable with just getting by and taking the easy way out to live as we want. Never wanting to step out what’s familiar and travel the unknown only to reach the destiny God already established for us. For his purpose. Not ours.

Just as with life when we go through an unknown process before we see the fruit of our labor some often call success, there is a similar process we must go through to prepare us for the battle, strengthen our resolve, and build our character before we reach each new level of destiny. In order to finish the work God has entrusted to you, your assignment will require God’s anointing to come upon you. Don’t regret the process. Trust it.

The next time you get in your feelings or are feeling some type of way because you want what someone else have. Or are jealous or envious because you think you deserve what they got, consider this. You don’t know what that anointing cost them. Your anointing is not their anointing. Your calling is not their calling. You don’t know the price they paid. Count the cost. Make sure you are willing to suffer through what it will take and be ready to pay the price to walk in YOUR own anointing.

And remember…That Anointing you carrying is costly…Don’t SETTLE! The anointing God placed on your life comes with a cost. To operate in it comes with a price. IT AIN’T CHEAP! It’s costly. It will cost you everything. Even your reputation. Never settle for less than God’s best. The oil is expensive. Are you willing? To pay the price of pain, suffering, humiliation, persecution, being hated, gossiped about, or losing friends, to do what God has called you to do? Yes? Get in position. Get ready! Use your gifts for God’s glory! –Selah

Be blessed! – JD

John 12:3 “Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.” (NLT)

Peace Be Still Storm. It’s Your Season. Call Forth Your Harvest!

The blessings in the WEIGHT of glory far exceed problems you may face and will manifest in abundance, as long as you don’t get weary in well-doing while you WAIT. God promise. Be encouraged.

Oftentimes life’s circumstances will weigh you down heavily, not knowing which way to turn. You lose sight of the wonderful promises of God when looking at your situation, feeling hopeless convinced nothing will work in your favor.

We serve a mighty God who will never leave us or forsake us. He’s able to do far more than we could ever think. He knows exactly what we need at the right time we need it. He’s an on time God. And will do just as he promise.

The devil is a thief. He’s a liar. It’s his job to kill, steal and destroy. He works 24/7. And never gives up. Why should you? Get to work! The thief comes in the night to steal your joy. Don’t let him rob you of what you know is from God. The joy you have the world didn’t give it to you. God did. Rebuke that spirit!

Obstacles will come. Opposition will roll its ugly head in your direction to distract you from God’s intended purpose. Press towards the mark. You’re made for this! You can do it.

Storms may come. God is the eye of your storm, and will calm it to a whisper (Psalm 107:29). Listen for that still, small voice. There’s great comfort in knowing God is faithful. Jesus uttered the words, “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39). The winds and waves obeyed. Ain’t that good news! Just as Jesus was in control of the storm, He is in control of your circumstances. Declare, the storm is over!

Scatter the Word of God on the hearts of people wherever you go. Spread the seed and watch God show up and show out. It’s seedtime. Call forth your harvest. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over. It’s on the way. Get ready! Overflow, favor, increase. Declare and decree, “All three are alright with me!”

When the perils of life weigh you down, look to God. It ain’t over until he says it’s over. He promise. Decree, you will have life and life more abundantly. Walk boldly into your destiny. –Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (ESV)

The Devil Tried It… God Blocked It!

When you are chasing after God trying to do what’s right to please him and the devil come from the north, south, east and west, with a bag full of artillery filled with deception trying to stop what he knows God done already started, be confident of this. It’s already done. God blocked it!

The devil ain’t got no authority or power over you. He can’t do a thing to you without God’s permission. He knows this. Be encouraged. Tell the truth and shame the devil! Take back your authority.

God anointed you for such a time as this. Walk boldly in your purpose. Be fearless!!

Be blessed! – JD

Exodus 14:14 “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

Why Some of Y’all Turning Your 11 Day Journey into a 40 Year One? Stop it! Check Your GPS Navigation Signals

The other day I had an epiphany. Imagine this. It took the Israelites 40 years wandering in wilderness which should have only taken 11 days to reach the Promised Land, delaying their arrival because of the path they chose to take. As well as their mindset.

Going around the same mountain over and over with a merry-go-round mentality, instead of changing it to make progress to reach their final destination. Sounds familiar? Question? Why some of y’all turning your 11 day journey into a 40 year one? Stop… Look… Listen…!

While traveling yesterday in unknown territory in a part of town I was uncomfortable and unfamiliar with, I tried to convince myself it would be easier to go the route I was accustomed to reach my final destination because I didn’t want to be inconvenienced. But the GPS kept instructing me to drive according to the directions on the map. I grumbled and complained the whole time while driving and with resistance, I followed instructions and got there safely. And on time.

However, on my way back I decided to change directions opposite the GPS, switched lanes at the last minute and followed my own leading thinking I would get to the freeway faster. Lo and behold, that wasn’t the best decision because it took me longer and further down the road than I wanted to go.

The moment I changed my mindset, turned around and went a short distance up the street, within a matter of minutes I was at the freeway and made it home in less time it would have taken if I had gone out of my way simply because I wanted what was convenient and not what was uncomfortable. My changed mindset made a huge difference.

How many times do we do this? Waste time at Mount bitterness, regret, resentment, frustration, irritation, or discouragement in our travel from Mount Past to the promised land of God’s call. We delay reaching the land of joy, rest, happiness or deliverance because of bad choices. *Raises hand* I’ll answer.

It is said, and I have a tendency to believe, sometimes we allow these things to take residence in our hearts because we refuse to change. Then we blame God for “delay not denied.” It’s not that God doesn’t delay our requests, because sometimes he does. Or does not necessarily deny our requests, because sometimes he does. Some prayers are unanswered simply because of our disobedience.

On the other hand, sometimes we cause our own delay and deny our own more abundant blessings when our mindset is not in alignment with what God promises. His ways are not our ways. His thoughts are not our thoughts. When God sends you on a journey, he promise his purpose will be fulfilled; in his timing. Don’t rush the process.

Life ain’t always easy. Get your mind right! Let go of what’s familiar. Stop taking the scenic route. Get spiritual. Navigate life’s journey with what I call the ultimate GPS, God’s Providential Sovereignty. Let the Holy Spirit guide you in the right direction. It’s already inside you. Move forward. Get your blessing! -Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Psalm 25:4-5 “Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. ⁶ Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.” (ESV)

Roll Call! Get Your Gangsta On for God. Stop Doubting Jesus and Believe!

As I was operating off three hours of sleep this morning, God woke me and sat me straight up at 7:30 am, laid this heavily in my spirit and said, “Tell it!” I don’t play when he speak. Don’t get mad at me. I’m just doing what he told me to do. This is for somebody (and me). Warning…it’s a little long but I promise the read will be be well worth it.

When you know what you know about God, there is no reason to ever doubt what he can or can’t, will or won’t, should or shouldn’t, would or wouldn’t do for you. He is the God of the impossible. He will do it!

Do some of you remember when you didn’t have two nickels to rub together, a pot to put it in or a window to throw it out? Didn’t know how bills were going to get paid, wondered how you were gonna make it with an imperfect body, or do what you know God called you to do when doubting God?

Annndddd…Hateraters had the audacity to want to take a seat at your table when they couldn’t stand to see you blessed because they ran out of haterade and could no longer see what you were carrying.

And God showed up with more money than month, met every need, placed your enemies under your feet, and healed your body in ways you least expected. Didn’t he do it?!! I’ll answer…YES!!

He opened up the windows of heaven and poured out a blessing your arms didn’t have enough room to receive. He never failed you! Stop limiting yourself and doubting God. Roll call!! Get your gangster on. Go hard for God. Jesus did it for you. Return the favor. I’m just saying.

Remember the lame man? Thirty-eight years his problem became his way of life. He was filled with doubt. His situation seemed hopeless. He was an invalid and had been in this condition for a long time. Jesus had to get a little gangster on him. He asked him, “Do you want to get well? (John 5:6). He felt trapped in his infirmities and answered, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me” (John 5:7). Jesus said, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk” (John 5:8). And he did! If that is not enough proof, here’s another one.

Remember Doubting Disciple Didymus (Thomas) (I just made that up lol)? He had doubts. He wanted to see Jesus’ physical presence before he believed what he knew to be true about Him. When the disciples told Thomas, “We have seen the Lord! (John 20:24), he didn’t believe them. He said, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands, and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it” (John 20:25). Jesus said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27).

Last one. I promise. Remember the woman at the well? She said to Jesus, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water” (John 4:15). He told her, “Go call your husband and come back” (John 4:16). “I have no husband,” she answered (John 4:17). Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband.” The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband…” (John 4:18). I guess he told her. Now if that ain’t a little gangster, I don’t know what is.

She was uncomfortable. She changed the subject; quickly! It hit too close to home. She wanted to talk about something else and Jesus wasn’t having it. He had an important point to make and directed the conversation to that point, “the location of worship is not nearly as important as the attitude of worshipers” (LASB notes John 4:16-20). Put that in your memory.

What will it take for you to believe Jesus is who he says he is and will do what he says he will do? He will never leave you or forsake you and is always with you.

Listen….what I’ve discovered about Jesus when he had to get a little gangster on some people with a fierce clapback, he was never scared. When doubt and fear rose, he showed up and showed out, putting some people in their place. Let me help you.

Here’s a little piece of advice…When doubt enters the recesses of your mind, send it packing. Don’t settle. Get your mind right. Be about your Father’s business. Trust him when you can’t trace him. We serve a mighty, mighty God! He will do just…as…he…promise! ~Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Matthew 11:1-6 “When Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in their cities. 2 Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples 3 and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” 4 And Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” (ESV)

What? Why? When? How? did this happen? It’s Me God. Can I Be Transparent For A Moment?

Good morning God. It’s me. Your daughter. Woke with you on my mind in awe of your awesome wonder. I’ve been through some things I can’t even explain how I overcame and often wondered, What? Why? When? How? did this happen?

I lost many things along the way, friends turned their backs on me, loved ones hurt me, material possessions were gone. I cried tears of prayers and did my best to hold on. It was not until I laid prostrate before the Lord and cried out to you God, What? Why? When? How? losing everything, even almost my mind and discovered. I may never understand What or Why or know When or How, but I am assured You WILL.

For every trouble and trial I faced, YOU BLOCKED IT! For every obstacle I met in the face of adversity, YOU DID IT! For every sickness and disease that riddled my body with pain, YOU HEALED IT! I don’t need to know the answers to everything but what I know God, YOU are my EVERYTHING! And you will do just as YOU PROMISE. I give all glory to God. You are my rock, my shield, my strong tower.

No man can curse what God has blessed. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. I will speak those things that are not as though they are. I will walk boldly in my purpose. What God has for me is for me. The devil may try it, but no one can take from me what YOU promised me.

This spiritual battle I’m in is not against flesh and blood. People don’t determine my destiny. You do. Weapons of my warfare are not carnal. I know the Lord will fight my battles. The enemy may come in like a flood, the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.

Don’t get it twisted. I am my Father’s daughter. I’m covered by the blood of Jesus. With every ounce of my being I will serve the Lord. God you are my EVERYTHING. I give you glory!

Be blessed! – JD

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

God is About To Shut It Down! Fear, Doubt, Anxiety, It’s Got to Go. Get Ready. Your Miracle is Coming!

Listen…I don’t know who this is for but God laid this on my heart…

God is about to SHUT IT DOWN! He’s up to something. All the things the devil think he stole from you, God is going to restore you double. Anything that no longer serves a purpose in your life, God is going to send it packing.

Get your suitcase ready. Fear, doubt, anxiety, worry, it’s got to go. Pack it up. Throw away the key. The struggle is over!

Everything that is attached to you that has been hindering you from reaching your destiny, God is about to release you from bondage. He is about to set you free! Get ready, get ready!

Every challenge, struggle, obstacle, trial, adversity, and trouble you’ve faced, God is about to erase it from your memory. It’s done. Your future is waiting.

God is about to break barriers in your life. Call it done. He is about to SHUT IT DOWN!

Are you ready?

Be blessed! – JD

1 Corinthians 2:9 “But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.”’ (ESV)

Can You Imagine ….ALL God Has Prepared For You? Eyes Have Not Seen! God Said It. I Didn’t. Get Ready!

IMAGINE THIS… You can’t see what I see. Something great is on the way. I SMILE …God is going to exceed your expectations. Every towel of defeat, distraction, and despair …THROW it back. Get ready!

God is about to release you into your destiny. Every attack was an indication of the blessing that’s coming. Boy, IT’S MAJOR!

God’s best kept secret is about to be exposed. Your secret season is almost over. God’s about to bring you to the forefront. He gone show up and show out! DEY AIN’T READY FOR YA!

Be blessed! – JD

1 Corinthians 2:9 “But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”—(ESV)