Silly For A Season

⇢ Surely, the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets. Amos 3:7

⇢ He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, And light dwells with Him. Daniel 2:21-22



As I was sitting in a church one Sunday morning, a thought came to my mind, “I look silly. Here I am doing what the Lord told me to do and I don’t see the fruit that should come from it.” In my limited view and knowledge, it just didn’t make any sense. Then, the Holy Spirit encouraged me and said, “Sometimes, you’ll have to look silly for a season.”

Many times, the Lord will reveal His purposes and plans to us ahead of the time that He plans to do it. He’ll tell you His plans & may provide instructions for you to prepare. On the contrary, He may not reveal these things to the people around you. God doesn’t trust everyone with His secrets, just a select few. Amos 3:7 confirms this as it proclaims, “Surely, the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.”

Take a look at Noah, who by his obedience to God spared not only his own life but the lives of his family members. God said to Noah, “I intend to make an end of all that lives, for through men the land is filled with violence; and behold, I am about to destroy them together with the land. Make yourself an ark of gopher wood; make in it rooms (stalls, pens, coops, nests, cages, compartments) and coat it inside and out with pitch (bitumen), Gen. 6:13-14. I can imagine Noah doing exactly what the Lord had instructed, only to be taunted by people who couldn’t understand why he was building this enormous boat. The Lord told him exactly what He planned to do and provided Noah with specific instructions. Noah couldn’t concern himself with what everyone else was doing and what they were saying. He’d heard from God. Thus, he had to keep building.

Quite often, your obedience to God’s instructions/His Word may cause you to look silly because everyone else is doing something different, going a different route, or simply doesn’t understand the vision that God has given you. In today’s society, everyone seems to do what makes them feel good and whatever seems right at the moment. We have to trust God enough to obey His instructions, even if it causes us to look silly to other people. God alone knows the plans that He has for you, they are good and not evil, plans to give you hope and an expected end (Jer. 29:11). Remember, its only for a season. Obey God so that His will can be carried out in your life and in the lives of others.

Stay Encouraged.💕
A.M.

Smoke & Mirrors

“…casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].  Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour. But resist him, be firm in your faith [against his attack—rooted, established, immovable], knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being experienced by your brothers and sisters throughout the world. [You do not suffer alone.] After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace [who imparts His blessing and favor], who called you to His own eternal glory in Christ, will Himself complete, confirm, strengthen, and establish you [making you what you ought to be].  To Him be dominion (power, authority, sovereignty) forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 5:7-11 

Smoke and mirrors is a classic technique in magical illusions that makes an entity appear to hover in empty space. It has now become a figure of speech which means the obscuring or embellishing of the truth of a situation with misleading or irrelevant information. Also, if something is described as smoke and mirrors it is intended to make you believe that something is being done or is true, when it is not. In other words, smoke and mirror is all about deception. It’s a tactic that the enemy uses to distract, discourage, and derail the people of God. 

Many times in our lives, God will allow us to go through situations that seem completely impossible to overcome. He’ll allow us to go through seasons of lack and loss, scarcity and shame, despair and disappointment. He’ll take us through the valley of dry bones where it seems there is no life, no fruit, and no manifestation of His promises. Even when we go through these seasons, we must remember that things are not always what they seem. God is with us and God is for us. It doesn’t matter who isn’t for us and what tactics the enemy uses against us. God is our Defender. He’s our Way Maker, our Miracle Worker, our Promise Keeper, and our Light in the darkness. 

God is always there working behind the scenes orchestrating events and situations for our benefit.  So even as we pray, it may seem as if nothing is happening, and God is not listening. But God is working. You must believe that and speak that by faith. He’s allowed me to go through enough circumstances to know that things are not always what they seem. There were times where I would be in such tight and impossible, sometimes scary situations…praying and fasting for months. It seemed like God was not there. Out of nowhere He would move as I continued to believe that He would bring me out and perfect those things that were concerning me. He would show me that He had the situation under His control the entire time. God uses these situations as tools to grow us up in faith, in integrity, and in prayer. You may be in a situation where your back may be against the wall and you don’t know what to do, but God does. He had the solution before you even had the problem. The Word of God declares that He knows the things that we need before we even ask (Matt. 6:8). I’m a witness to that. 

I’m reminded of 2 Kings 6:16-17 where Elisha prayed for his servant’s eyes to be opened in the very impossible situation that he was facing. The Aramean army had come up against the people of God to make war. They seemed to be surrounded - in a tight place - an impossible situation. Elisha answered, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’ Then Elisha prayed and said, ‘Lord, please, open his eyes that he may see.’ And the Lord opened the servant’s eyes and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire surrounding Elisha.” The army of God was with the people of God. We must get to a place of faith to know that no matter what we face, God’s army…His angels, and His Word shall go before us. 

The enemy uses the tactic of smoke and mirrors to throw the people of God off course. He does this so that we begin to doubt God, become discouraged and hopeless, never reaching a place in faith to move to the next level of maturity in God. The Bible says that He takes us from glory to glory and faith to faith (Psalms 84:7 & 2 Corin. 3:18). The enemy would love nothing more than to deceive you, cause you to quit on God, and miss your destiny. But, it’s all smoke and mirrors. 

Push past how you feel and what you see. Walk by faith and not by sight. Trust that God has your situation under control and will not suffer your foot to be moved, He’s faithful.

Be Encouraged.

A.M.💓

God Has Not Forsaken You!

Psalm 94:14 ~ For the Lord will not forsake His people, He will not forsake His heritage.

What does it mean to forsake someone? It means to abandon, to leave behind, or to leave helpless.

Countless times in the bible God tells His people, “I will never leave nor forsake you.” In Deuteronomy 31:8, it says, “It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” In Joshua 1:9 God says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

As Jesus was hanging on the cross He cried out, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” In this moment in history we get a glimpse of Jesus Christ crying out as if God had forsaken Him. Many times, in our walk with God it will feel like, look like, and seem like God has forsaken us. However, the Word of God cancels out this lie. God is with us, even when it seems He’s not. In every test, trial, hurt, and pain…God is there. In every victory, blessing, triumph, and new chapter…God is there.

One of the lessons I’ve had to learn in my Christian walk is that, I must be extremely confident in my faith that no matter what I face, I know that God is with me and He is for me. No matter the circumstance, we must become mature Christians who can honestly trust God enough to say, “Not my will, but yours be done.” That’s not easy to do when you’re hurting, when nothing is working out for you, or you’ve been waiting on God to fulfill a promise He’s made many years ago. However, our faith must be unshakeable, immovable, and able to withstand any test, especially in these last days. In Genesis 37, we see God give Joseph a promise (dream). After that, we begin to witness a series of heartbreaking and difficult tests that Joseph endured. However, throughout his trying times, the bible declares that the Lord was with Joseph. Just as He was with Joseph, He is with us…in every circumstance.

Your suffering doesn’t equate to the absence of God’s presence. The fact that you’re going through
many tests and trials doesn’t indicate that God has forsaken you. In fact, it reveals the opposite. In Matthew 13:20-21, you’ll find the parable of the sower. The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy.  But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Trouble and persecution will come, because of the Word of God that lives in you. Don’t allow your present circumstances to force you to give up on God and essentially forfeit God’s promises to you.

James 1:2-4 tells us to “Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.” Be assured that your afflictions and hardships that God is allowing to take place in your life is working out for your good according to Romans 8:28.

It may not seem like it, but God is doing a good work in you. Philippians 1:6, “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” As we see Jesus up on the cross and it seemed that God had abandoned Him, God was there, doing a good work. And so, it is with us, when God seems to have forsaken us or when He seems silent, He is doing a good work in us.

Be encouraged as you endure every test and trial that the Lord allows to come your way. He’s there with you. He will help you to endure. He will see you to the other side. Keep praying, keep fasting, and keep believing. God is with you.

Be Encouraged.
A.M.

Thunderstorms

Is. 43:2 ~ When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.

As I sit here writing in my dimly lit bedroom, outside is a raging thunderstorm. The wind is blowing so harshly that it seems angry. My blinds are knocking loudly against my windows. The endless raindrops are steadily pouring from the sky into my apartment. My window panes are flooded with so much water that rain is literally gushing down the walls onto the carpet. To make matters worse, the thunder is extremely deafening and forceful. Although, I know it’s coming (because of the lightning), the thunder jolts me and stirs a little bit of fear within. Even in this God speaks. In the middle of the storm, God speaks to my heart, “Yes, the storm is loud, boisterous, out of control, and seems to be never-ending, but you know in your heart that it will subside. It will not rain forever. It will pass. Just as with every storm in your life, they will pass. It will not remain this way forever. Just wait it out.”

Many times, the storms in our lives, both public and private are in fact loud, boisterous, out of control, and seem never-ending. However, the Holy Spirit reminded me that this too shall pass, just like every other storm I’ve faced in life. I want to lovingly remind you that the storm you’re in right now, that seems like it will never let up, will indeed pass. Trials, tests, and tribulations are scary, tumultuous, and unpredictable, much like thunderstorms. During these storms, God commands us just as He did Joshua in Josh. 1:9, “To be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” God is with you in the storm, in the battle, in the difficulty, in the unfair treatment, in the disappointment, and in the pain. He’s there and will get you through it.

Both thunderstorms and rain serve a purpose. Their purpose is far greater than our inconveniences and discomfort. God doesn’t check with us to see if a thunderstorm works with our agenda for the day. It just rains until He’s done. Likewise, the storms in our lives serve a purpose. It’s up to us to seek God’s face and ask Him. Word of advice: Never go through a storm and come out empty. God has a purpose for you in your storm (wisdom, understanding, greater anointing, increased faith, maturity, patience, knowing Him, etc.). Cancel the pity party and ask God, What are You saying to me? What are you trying to teach me? What is the lesson here? There is good in your storm. Romans 8:28 declares, “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.”

The Holy Spirit also reminded me that God is in control. He controls the weather including the thunderstorms. So, it is with the storms in our lives, God is in control. He knows how long it will last and He knows how to get you through it. He is aware of your circumstances. We don’t have to walk around frustrated. According to 1 Peter 5:7, we can cast all our cares on Him because He cares for us. Therefore, cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never permit the righteous to be moved (Psalm 55:22). The storm is not permanent, its only temporary. You are in the palm of His hands.

Be Encouraged.

A.M.

Preparation Before Promise: Part 2

So Pharaoh sent for Joseph, and he was quickly brought from the dungeon. When he had shaved and changed his clothes, he came before Pharaoh. Gen 41:14

In continuation of “Preparation Before Promise,” the Lord showed me something in Gen. 41:14. The Bible says, "Pharaoh sent for Joseph and he was quickly brought from the dungeon." Many times, we try to help God get us to the place of promise. We try to make things happen and only end up frustrating ourselves. Gen. 40:23 says, “The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him.” Joseph had to sit in that situation for another two years. However, when it was time for God’s word to come to pass, the bible says Pharaoh sent for him. Joseph didn’t have to con his way out. He didn’t have to manipulate or force his way into destiny. But the Lord, in His perfect timing, caused Joseph to be remembered.

Joseph learned many things in the time of preparation. I believe the following concepts are essential to waiting on God’s promises to manifest in our lives.

Faith in God’s Timing – If anyone knew what it meant to wait upon God, it was Joseph. He was

given a promise as a teen and didn’t walk in that promise until age thirty. He went through various delays and detours. I can only imagine what was going through his mind. Sold into slavery by his own flesh and blood, thrown into prison unjustly, and seemingly forgotten. Surely this wasn’t the way God wanted to fulfill His promise. I’m reminded of how God led the children of Israel through the wilderness, not the shorter, easier route. He knew they were not ready (Ex. 13:17-18). So God did the same with Joseph and He’s doing the same with many of us. Does it seem like you’re taking the longer route in life? The more rigorous journey to purpose? If so, be encouraged because God is in control.

Forgiveness – Throughout Joseph’s time of preparation, he was betrayed, lied on, and forgotten about by people with whom he had relationships. He had to learn to forgive and forget. Joseph had to learn to bless those who cursed him, and pray for those who spitefully used him (Luke 6:28). How many of us are still trying to get this right? In the place of purpose, there’s no room for unforgiveness and malice. As we see in Joseph’s life story, God used him greatly to help many people, even those who had betrayed him. How can God use you to genuinely help people if you are holding grudges and malicing them in your heart?

Learn the lessons that God is trying to teach you in your preparation time. You will get to the place of purpose. When you get there is up to you. Stop complaining, ask God what He wants you to learn, and trust that He will bring you out at the right time. Don’t waste your time. The bible says we should walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is (Ephesians 5:15-16). Be encouraged as God continues to prepare you for your purpose.

Blessings,

A.M.

Preparation Before Promise: Part 1

But Joseph dreamed yet another dream and told it to his brothers [also]. He said, See here, I have dreamed again, and behold, [this time not only] eleven stars [but also] the sun and the moon bowed down and did reverence to me! Gen. 37:9

What an exciting and fulfilling experience it is for God Himself to reveal His purpose for you. It’s a beautiful thing to receive a Word from the Lord. The God of the universe has zeroed in on you to speak to you about His plans for your life. What a blessing! I believe that many of God’s people are in a place where they have received a promise from God, but are in a season of preparation. Or as we like to sometimes call it, “the process.” I believe within that process, there is preparation taking place. In the time of preparation God is building your character and developing your trust in Him. He’s not a God who would set you up to fail. That’s why before He brings you to the place of promise, He has to straighten out the kinks in your character that would cause you to blow it.

There are a few things that Joseph had to learn as a young man before he came into what God had prepared for Him.

1. Humility – As we see in Genesis 37:3, Joseph was loved more than his brothers and he knew it. Their father Jacob treated him as the favorite. In verse 2, the bible says while he was shepherding the flock with his brothers, he brought his father a bad report of them. He was a tattle-tale. Sometimes, we need to learn to cover other people in love and not point out their flaws as if we have none. In verses 13 & 14 we see his father send him to check on his brothers as they were shepherding the flock in Shechem. Why wasn’t Joseph with them already? He was an able-bodied young man; surely he could work. He was spoiled. God gave him 2 dreams about what He had planned for Joseph. In verses 6 & 7, we see Joseph telling his dream to his brothers who hated him. In verse 8, we see their reaction was less than favorable. So why in verse 9 would he brag about having another dream about God’s awesome plan for his life? This young man was the crème of the crop in that family and he knew it. However, he needed to learn humility before God could raise him up. We see this as he went from the favored, spoiled son to a slave and prisoner. What are the areas of your life where you see God is humbling you? Teaching you how to serve rather than be served…learning to submit to authority rather than others submitting to you. A good leader must first be a good follower.
    
2. 
   Reliance on God – As a young man, Joseph was accustomed to being favored by his father, Jacob. But now we see in Genesis 39, Joseph learning to rely on the favor of his Heavenly Father. Joseph prospered in all that he did because the Lord was with him. Joseph had to understand that it was God who kept and provided for him. It was God who blessed him and had a purpose for his life. It was the hand of God on his life that caused him to be favored by Potiphar and the keeper of the prison. Despite of his struggles, he had to learn that God was with him. He had to trust God to bring him to the place of promise despite of what he saw and endured, just as you should. The bible says that “God watches over his word to perform it” (Jer. 1:12). He’s watching over your situation to make sure His word comes to pass.

I believe Joseph went through the process that many of us are going through right now. Be encouraged as you allow the Holy Spirit to work in and around you. Remember, it’s God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13). Embrace this time and allow the Holy Spirit to teach you in your circumstances. Humble yourself under the Mighty Hand of God that He may exalt you in due season, casting all your cares on Him because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:6-7).

Stay Encouraged,

A.M.