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)

Stop Looking for Validation or Approval From Others. Jesus Didn’t Need It. You Don’t Either!

Oftentimes we can get so caught up when looking for approval or acceptance from others in order to walk in the calling God has specifically established for us. Validation from others is not required. Jesus didn’t need it. Nor do we.

The opinions of others is not a mandate to follow the call of God. It’s okay to take it into consideration when given but it’s not required to act on it. Nor is it a necessity to follow your heart. The Holy Spirit will make an impression on your heart and lead you to do what God is calling you to do. Not people. But be forewarned. When you listen to God, keep in mind you will likely get criticism and be judged by others when you don’t do what they tell you you should be doing.

Know this. When God calls you to do a work for him, he will equip you with all you need to do his WILL, not theirs. He will provide you with tools needed to complete the assignment. Not what’s on everybody else’s agenda. Everything that’s good is not always good and everything that’s good is not always bad. Discern the difference.

You may never understand all God is doing through and in you when it feels like you don’t know what you’re doing, and it looks like he’s doing nothing. Be confident of this, God knows exactly what he’s doing. Be encouraged. Keep doing what he knows you need to be doing to fulfill his purpose. Don’t quit or give up. Somebody’s watching. Stay the course. Somebody needs what you are carrying that’s been assigned by God. Keep doing it! ~Selah

Be blessed! – JD

1 Thessalonians 2:4 “But just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts.” (ESV)

 

Happy International Women’s Day! Ladies, let’s join forces and #BalanceForBetter. We can do this!!

To every woman across the nation who have made or is making an impact and whose contributions continue to break barriers, I celebrate you!

It takes a certain kind of person to be who we are. Strong, tenacious, resilient, grace, dignity, intellect, beauty, just to name a few.

We wear many different hats on any given day to nurture, inspire, love, and empower others. We all bleed the same blood. We stand up for injustice and will fight like a girl when someone harms our loved ones. We don’t play when you mess with something precious to us.

We set the record straight just about who we are. Don’t get it twisted. We are PHENOMENAL! We rule the world. Let’s join forces and #BalanceForBetter. Ladies, we can do it!

We rock! – JD

Sorry NOT Sorry. I Said It. I Ain’t Taking Nothing Back. I Meant It. I Ain’t Changing It. God Changed My Life and My Heart. My Book is My Testimony!

The day after Thanksgiving I had been up since 3 am that morning. For two days, Friday and Saturday, I wrestled with not going to church and not wanting to be bothered by anyone. God disturbed me and interrupted my plans, as usual. Guess what? You already know.

I pressed my way and am so glad I made it because Bishop La’Tresa Jester preached me out of my seat. She brought a mighty, mighty word, “It’s Worth The Wait.” She spoke my truth.

I am and have always been real and to the point, but feared being transparent. Not anymore. I started shouting and while thanking God it got me thinking when she said this, “Tell your haters, ‘In between your blinks I’m changing. While you blinking, I’m changing. While you blinking, I’m coming up. While you blinking, he’s restoring me!”

I started declaring, “I am positioned for better.” I’m on my way. I will no longer be bothered by my emotions or distracted by my feelings. I’m staying ready! God is about to restore me in front of folks that counted me out. The stuff I thought I’d never have is going to start leaping up. I’m in position to receive all God has in store for me.

I will no longer be ashamed of telling my story; that it may help others. I wrote it. I said it. I ain’t taking nothing back. It’s my story, my testimony. I’m proud of it. I’ve been delivered.

Thank you God for every delay, every setback. I’ve been setup for the greatest comeback. When I get what you give me, I’m going to do better with it. I promise God. I trust you even when I can’t see it. When I can’t trace you I trust you.

I meant every word I said in my book. I wrote it. I ain’t taking nothing back. I said it. I’m Sorry But I’m Not Sorry. And….for those of you who would like to know what it is I said, you are welcome to purchase a copy of my book titled Unspoken Testimony Memoir: Secrets of a Southern Girl on Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Autographed copies are available by request. Send me an email and we can talk! Thanks in advance for your support!

Be blessed! – JD

Luke 8:39 “Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” ‘And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him.” (ESV)

Don’t Be Surprised By Shifting Seasons and Give Up Before You Start. They Are Consistent, Constant, and Continuous. Stay Ready!

During December, the final month of last year, many of us began to make declarations for a better year ahead desiring different outcomes, better results, success, joy, happiness, favorable health or whatever it is our hearts desire in search of a better year than before.

Yet throughout the year, many of us may have gone through a hard season of losses, fiery trials, difficult challenges, unexplained financial struggles, and anything that could have gone wrong did, where hope was lost but…you’re still standing. By the grace of God you made it.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Seasons change and are consistent, constant, and continuous. Always keep in mind, just as there are four seasons which occur every year in order with varying characteristics that will cause changes in the environment around us, so will seasons in our life. Maybe not in order but they are consistent.

Your spiritual temperance will be inconsistent; hot, warm, lukewarm or cold. Life happens. With every new level through each season God takes us, there will be new devils to deal with. We mustn’t be surprised by it. But be prepared for it.

The enemy doesn’t fight fair when he knows there’s a shift in the atmosphere of extraordinary expectancy of miracles. He knows God has greater coming. He will do everything and I mean everything in his power to convince you to quit, to give up, don’t you dare do it. You will be tried, tested, and proven to build character. To build your faith. God’s faithfulness will indeed be proven.

Rain falls on the just and the unjust. Storms will come. Stay the course. God is faithful. Shifting seasons are par for the course. Stay focused. Dry, waiting, spiritual warfare, trial, or test seasons will come. Don’t get weary in well-doing. When the enemy wages war tell him, “Get outta here with that mess. I’m suited up with the Sword of the Spirit and the Word of God. I’m ready for battle. Bring it!” Pick your battles today. And remember, shifting seasons are necessary. Stay ready!

Be blessed! – JD

Isaiah 55:10-11 “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, 11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” (NKJV)

Okay Bird Box Netflix Fans, You Got My Attention. I watched the movie! Boy I tell Ya…Intrigued I Was… And Of Course I Found a Message In It

So, after seeing countless posts on the #BirdBox movie on Netflix I decided to watch it last night and for any of you that know me know I am one to find a spiritual message or lesson in everything that applies to life be it a movie, a commercial, vacation, event, etc. I am an analyzer, deep thinker okay lol.

While I cannot speak for the audience this movie intended to serve or its purpose, what I am assured of, there was a clear message or take away for many like myself. Here’s my thought. First and foremost, thinking it was a horror movie which I don’t watch, ever, I was prepared to be terrified and stop watching moments in but I wasn’t and I didn’t. Surprisingly, I was intrigued.

From the beginning as I noticed Sandra Bullock and her children blindfolded not yet knowing the reason why, I couldn’t help but think how many of us go through life with blinders on (not literally) unprepared for death until something forces us to make an emergency decision, when sadly, it may be too late. Something to think about.

Now notice, Sandra’s character had never looked at the news so she was not aware of or prepared for the catastrophe of sudden death of humanity by this unsuspecting “evil” force that was headed their way. Hmm…sounds familiar? Much like many of us who may be unprepared for the second coming of Jesus and lack knowledge of God’s word but may scramble to be saved at the last minute, when sadly it will be too late.

Is it safe to say she lived a carefree life as she lived in the moment, in the here and now and not looked towards the future? I don’t know. I’m just assuming but what I am certain of many of us live this way without a plan or a process, unprepared to live an eternal life. We’re okay with average as long as we still have life.

Now I don’t want to give away much of the movie or the ending so I’ll say this. When death came knocking at her door, she ran to a place of the unknown, in unfamiliar territory, with people she did not know to save herself and her unborn child. They were safe and could only take the blinders off inside to be shielded from the darkness of evil lurking outside. Much like the dark world we as believers live in filled with evil forces that surround us but Jesus, the light of the world lives inside and protects and guides us.

Survival for the moment was predicated on a chance they had to take blindfolded, travel outside the unknown, but be guided by a GPS system that would lead them to their destination not knowing if they would arrive safely. Like us, as God navigates us through the unknown, not knowing how we will get where we’re going but we hold on to faith, the substance of things hoped for, evidence of things unseen because we believe God is who he says he is; I AM That I AM.

Lastly, what I noticed was how evil forces with familiar voices cried out to, chased down, persuaded, and lured outsiders to give in to temptation and look at them or take the blinders off only to meet with an untimely death they were not prepared for. Yet if they had ignored the voices, like the enemy tries to plant inside our heads, and not given in to temptation, they probably would have not suffered as much and may have reached the place of peace, safety, and comfort if they had been better prepared for it. Sounds familiar?

I won’t say anything else but I will leave you with this. Watch the movie if it moves you to do so or take your thought process a little deeper and think about how this applies to your life and what you would have done or what you are doing to prepare to meet Jesus when your times comes. Blessings!

Be blessed! – JD

Luke 21:36 “But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (NASB)

2018 is Almost Over. Get Your Praise On. You Still Have Time. Finish Strong! 2019 is around the corner. Be On Fire For God. Get Ready! Let’s Do This!

As this year comes to a close let us give praise, honor, and glory unto God for grace and mercy! As we prepare to enter into 2019, let not only one day be a day you live to be better, live to do better, and live to get better but let everyday be a day you reconcile and surrender your will to God’s will as you live to be Christ-like in every area of your life.

As a witness, let your days be filled with perseverance and divine authority as you lead others to Christ. May you continue to walk in victory, honor God, and spread the gospel about Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior to everyone you may encounter.

We as believers all have a destiny, an eternal destiny. God has a plan and a purpose for each and every one of us. As I walk in my purpose, I will profess to the world that my Lord and Savior is Jesus Christ. I will profess his goodness, his mercy, and his omnipotence. I will proclaim his faithfulness. I will proclaim his power.

I am a witness. For, “The most important thing is that I complete my mission, the work that the Lord Jesus gave me–to tell people the Good News about God’s grace” [Acts 20:24, NCV]. Because to me, it means God is able. Able to do exceeding and abundantly above all we could ask or think… [Ephesians 3:20].

My prayer: Jehovah Jireh, grant unto me and every family member and friend, according to your riches in glory, your tender mercies and immeasurable favor, the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places according to Isaiah 45:1-3. I declare that the Cyrus anointing flows unhindered and uncontaminated in each and every life according to Isaiah 60:10-17. Grant peace, mercy, and favor. I seal this prayer in Jesus’ name, AMEN! And Thank God!

I am sending my “Happy New Year” wish early. Please be safe and for those of you traveling away from home may God give you traveling mercy to reach your destination safely without hurt, harm or danger. And please, don’t drink and drive. Call a cab, call an Uber, call a friend or love one or call AAA and save a life. Love you!

Be Blessed! – JD

Revelation 21:5 “He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” (NIV)

 

Merry Christmas! For Unto Us a Savior was Born “…And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God…”

Joy Darden

1 hr · 

Merry Christmas from my family to yours! Good morning!

God we give you the highest praise for the gift of your one and only Son, Jesus Christ; Hallelujah!

For unto us a Savior was born, a baby lying in a manger in Bethlehem. “…And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

It is on this day we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Tis the reason for the season. Glory to God.

Have a blessed and Merry Christmas!

Be Blessed! – JD

Isaiah 9:6 “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (KJV).

Stop Trying to Unlock The Door To Your Past With Keys That Don’t Work. Throw Them Away! And Watch God Throw The Keys To Your Future Right Back At You!

Going back to what’s familiar from your past can be so easy to do when you feel defeated and your back is against the wall. In spite of the fact your past kept you bound, miserable, and stagnated your growth because you didn’t have to change anything about yourself to make life happen. You loved being comfortable with who you were. Until God closed that door and made you uncomfortable.

When God closes the door to your past, it’s a done deal. It’s gone. When he heals and delivers you from the very things that should have destroyed you, stop trying to bring back the past of no return. Throw away the keys and move on. And thank God later for your future.

No matter how many times you fight against walking in your purpose, delaying your destiny out of fear or frustration and you keep telling God “NO,” his YES will always be “YES and Amen.” He promise.

If you were truly honest with yourself, can you admit much like me, too often you constantly tell God “I don’t want to do the work I’m called to do anymore out of frustration and fear because it seems too hard, but find yourself unable to stop doing what you know you’ve been purposed to do at any given moment because it doesn’t feel right when you don’t.

You’re satisfied with and want to stay where you are and stay hidden in the background because you’re comfortable being complacent. But as God move you to each level, eventually you cannot stay hidden or remain comfortable. Where you’re going will be uncomfortable. You’ll travel alone and lose some people along the way because everybody can’t go with you or do what God assigned specifically for you to complete. You’ll be tried and tested in your faith walk because you’ve been chosen to fulfill God’s, not your, purpose.

God put this in my spirit and revealed this very thing to me today. No matter how many times I want to quit and give up, God just will not let me. Nor will he allow me to stay comfortable. That right there tells me who is in charge, not me, but God. One day, I’ll get this calling and faith walk right and run to my destiny. Pray for me 😊

Ready to quit? Ready to give up? Your situation is more than you can handle? Stop it! Rebuke that spirit! God did not give you a spirit of fear. Don’t give up. Keep it moving!

Be blessed! – JD

2 Corinthians 1:20 “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.” (AMP)