douglas-witherup

Stay Safe?

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:22:35 GMT

Somewhere during Covid, “Stay safe” became our national sign-off. It slowly replaced “goodbye.”

I understand the heart behind it. No one wants harm to come to anyone else.

But I don’t like the phrase.

Not because I want people to get hurt—but because of the subtle mindset underneath it: as if the ultimate goal of life is to stay safe.

Let me explain.

When God was preparing to deliver Israel from Egypt, there was one final plague—the death angel. Every firstborn in the land would die, except in one place: under the doorpost marked by the blood of the lamb.

There was wailing across Egypt. 

But under the blood, there was protection.

And then God does something surprising.

He immediately calls His people out from under the doorpost—the one place of safety—and into the wilderness.

Into the Red Sea. 

Into Pharaoh’s advancing army. 

Into desert terrain. 

Into uncertainty about food and water.

Why not just stay safe?

Because safety was never meant to be found in staying under the doorpost.

Safety is found in living under the blood.

The blood was not a hiding place. 

It was a launching place.

There’s a powerful scene in The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. King Théoden retreats to Helm’s Deep, believing the fortress walls will keep his people safe. But the enemy overwhelms them. What was meant to be a refuge becomes a trap.

Aragorn remembers Gandalf’s words—“Look to the east”—and urges the king to ride out and fight. They charge out from behind the walls just as the light breaks over the hill and reinforcements arrive. The tide turns not while they are hiding, but when they advance.

Victory came when they left the walls.

Back to Israel.

God did not deliver them so they could remain sheltered behind a blood-stained doorway. He delivered them to walk by faith—through seas, deserts, battles, and promises.

The protection was real. But it was protection for a mission.

Is God calling you out of what feels familiar? Comfortable? Contained?

Stop hiding in a place He never called you to stay.

Step into obedience. 

Advance into your assignment. 

Move toward the promise.

You are protected—not because you are playing it safe, but because you live under the blood.

The goal of life is not to “stay safe.”

The goal is to walk in courageous obedience.

And that is far more dangerous—to the enemy—than a life spent hiding.

My Thoughts on the Super Bowl Halftime Show

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:00:29 GMT

For the first time in a long while, I didn’t watch much of the game. I wasn’t particularly interested in either team, and the game played out pretty much as I expected—kind of blah.

That’s not to take anything away from Seattle. Their defense was smothering, and Sam Darnold deserves real credit.

But it was the halftime show that truly grieved my spirit.

No, not Bad Bunny. I didn’t watch that one. I had already decided it would promote values and ideologies I don’t believe in or agree with. Instead, I was genuinely excited to click over to YouTube and watch the alternative halftime stream from TP USA.

Rewind for a moment to Charlie Kirk’s funeral. I watched nearly all four hours of it, and in many ways it felt like a revival. There was worship. There was a tangible honoring of God’s presence. Person after person unashamedly preached Christ—crucified, resurrected, and the only way to be reconciled to God. Erika Kirk’s extension of forgiveness was one of the most moving, brave, and Christ-like acts I have ever witnessed. For a moment, it felt like America was truly turning.

That’s what I was hoping for during TP USA’s halftime show.

It wasn’t. At all.

Instead, it featured songs celebrating cussing and drinking.

Bad Bunny isn’t a picture of what America should aspire to—but neither was this.

TP USA, I say this humbly, but I believe you missed a moment. You missed a rare opportunity to bring together worship leaders, testimonies, and bold gospel proclamation. Millions of Americans would have tuned in. Millions could have heard the gospel. But they didn’t.

There is a moment in Scripture where Joshua encounters a warrior—the “commander of the Lord’s armies” (very likely a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ). Joshua asks him, “Whose side are you on?” The warrior turns the question back on him: “Whose side are you on?”

When leaders stand with God, we must courageously and unashamedly stand with them. Many of the issues we face today are not merely political; they are biblical. And when leaders fail to stand with God, then we must stand with God ourselves.

We must return to a holy fear of the Lord—a reverence for His Word, His standards, and His righteousness. Above all, we must always make sure we are found on the Lord’s side.

Purple Crayons, Arks, and Drawing Your Dream

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 19:16:03 GMT

Purple Crayons, Arks, and Drawing Your Dream

Elevate: Increasing Your Faith Capacity
Hebrews 11:7

For the past few weeks, our church family has been walking through 21 Days of Prayer , guided by a simple but profound question:
How does faith actually grow?

Scripture gives us a surprising answer. Faith doesn’t just believe—it builds .

“Now faith is the manifestation of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

Faith isn’t a reaction to what already exists.
Faith is the courage to create what doesn’t.

Faith Walks Before It Sees

Paul echoes Hebrews when he writes:

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)

Most of us reverse that order.
Show me first, then I’ll walk.

But biblical faith walks first—and sight follows.

Which brings us to a children’s book that quietly teaches one of the greatest lessons on faith ever written.

Harold and the Purple Crayon

In Harold and the Purple Crayon , a young boy steps into the night with nothing but a purple crayon. As Harold walks, he draws the moon, a path, a picnic lunch of pies, even a way home. He doesn’t wait for reality to appear—he creates it .

Here’s the hidden genius of the story:

Harold doesn’t respond to the world. He draws it.

And that’s what faith does.

Faith doesn’t wait for a path—it draws one.

Purple Crayons and Arks

Hebrews 11 quickly moves us from children’s stories to ancient history:

“It was by faith that Noah built a large boat… God warned him about things that had never happened before.” (Hebrews 11:7)

Pause and imagine that moment.

No rain.
No floods.
No boats.

Yet Noah built an ark anyway.

How do you build something no one has ever seen?
The same way Harold draws a moon in the dark.
The same way faith always works.

You see it before you see it.

Building for a World That Doesn’t Exist Yet

At the turn of the 20th century, the world revolved around horses. Cities were designed for stables, not garages. Roads were built for hooves, not engines.

Most people wanted improvement:

Faster horses
Stronger wagons
Better harnesses

But Henry Ford was thinking in terms of transformation.

He famously observed:

“If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said a faster horse.”

Ford wasn’t responding to what people saw.
He was building for what he believed.

No infrastructure.
No gas stations.
No traffic laws.
No public confidence.

And yet—he built anyway.

Faith doesn’t wait for demand.
Faith prepares for destiny.

The Secret of the Purple Crayon

At the heart of faith are three movements:

1. Dream

What is your God-sized dream ?

We often say, “I’ll believe it when I see it,” as an excuse for doubt. But faith flips the script:

“I’ll see it because I believe it.”

If we want heaven’s reality on earth, we have to hear from heaven first .

Sometimes the greatest limitation isn’t fear—it’s permission.
Permission to think bigger than your job description.
Permission to dream beyond your assigned lane.

You have permission to dream.

2. Design

Dreams don’t float—they’re framed.

Noah didn’t just receive a word.
He received dimensions .

God connects dots across disciplines:

Theology and psychology
Health and science
Art, business, technology, and Scripture

Break out of siloed thinking. Expand your reading. Expand your relationships. Expand your imagination.

You’re often one connection away from the next step in your calling.

3. Deliver

Dreams that stay in notebooks never save anyone from the flood.

As Steve Jobs once said:

“Real artists ship.”

When the rain came, Noah didn’t just have a prophetic word—
he had a finished ark .

Be grateful for fresh revelation—but don’t get addicted to the next word while neglecting obedience to the last one.

Discipline Makes Faith Durable

Faith isn’t sustained by inspiration alone.
It’s sustained by rhythm.

Few embody this better than Twyla Tharp , one of the most influential choreographers of the last century. In The Creative Habit , she writes:

“The routine is as much a part of the creative process as the lightning bolt of inspiration—maybe more.”

Faith thrives on:

Structure
Systems
Schedule

Prayer time.
Work habits.

Physical discipline.
Spiritual consistency.

Discipline turns vision into legacy.

Draw Something That Doesn’t Exist Yet

In the early 1950s, Walt Disney had a radical idea—not a carnival, not an amusement park, but an immersive story-world for families.

The problem?
No one had ever built anything like it.

So Walt turned to artist Herb Ryman and said, in essence:
“Draw what only exists in my mind.”

For an entire weekend, vision became visible.
Those drawings unlocked funding, land, and construction.

Years later, when Walt had already passed and the park finally opened, someone said, “It’s a shame Walt didn’t live to see this.”

His brother Roy replied:

“He did see it. That’s why it’s here.”

Your Action Step

Take out a piece of paper.
Pick up a pen—or a purple crayon.

Draw something.

Not because it’s perfect.
Not because it’s finished.
But because faith always starts by making the unseen visible.

Purple crayons build arks.
Arks shape futures.
And faith still draws worlds into existence.

What will you draw next?

What Fasting Does to the Brain — and Why God Designed It That Way

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 02:39:00 GMT

What Fasting Does to the Brain — and Why God Designed It That Way

Understanding the Divine Intelligence Behind Mental Clarity, Emotional Peace, and Spiritual Sensitivity During Fasting

For many Christians, fasting is mainly viewed as a spiritual discipline — something we do to draw near to God, silence distractions, and pursue breakthrough. And while those things are absolutely true, modern neuroscience has uncovered something remarkable:

Your brain was designed to function differently — and often better — during fasting. 

Not worse. Not weaker. 

Better.

It turns out that Scripture’s ancient rhythm of fasting lines up perfectly with how God engineered your brain to operate. The spiritual clarity, peace, and sensitivity people often feel during a fast are not imaginary. They are deeply biological — and intentionally designed by God.

Let’s explore how fasting affects your brain and why that change matters for your walk with God.

1. Your Brain’s Energy Shift: From Glucose to Ketones

Under normal circumstances, your brain runs primarily on glucose , the quick-burning sugar that comes from carbs. But during fasting, glucose becomes scarce, and your liver begins producing ketones — especially beta-hydroxybutyrate.

What’s amazing is that ketones are a better fuel for the brain than glucose.

They provide:

Cleaner-burning energy
More ATP per molecule (more power)
A steadier energy supply
Less oxidative stress

Think of glucose like burning firewood — it works, but it’s smoky and inconsistent. Ketones are like burning natural gas — clean, stable, highly efficient.

When your brain receives ketones, you experience:

Sharper thinking
More stable emotions
Better concentration
Fewer mental highs and lows

It’s no wonder the saints of old fasted when they needed clarity.

2. Ketones Switch On “Brain Superpowers”

As ketones rise, they trigger the release of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) — often called “Miracle-Gro for your brain.”

BDNF:

Protects your brain
Grows new neural pathways
Strengthens memory
Enhances creativity
Helps repair damaged areas of the brain

During fasting, BDNF can rise as much as 300–400%.

This is why fasting often makes you feel:

More focused
More insightful
More creative
More emotionally grounded

You’re literally thinking with a sharper brain.

3. Fasting Activates Autophagy: The Brain’s Cleanup Mode

Autophagy means “self-eating,” but think of it more like “self-cleaning.”

In fasting, your neurons begin:

Breaking down toxic proteins
Clearing old cell debris
Repairing weak mitochondrial engines
Resetting electrical pathways

If you ever feel “foggy,” “scattered,” or “cluttered,” fasting often wipes the slate clean.

Even more fascinating: 

Autophagy is one of the reasons fasting is protective against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

The same “cleaning” that helps your brain spiritually also heals it physically.

4. Fasting Reduces Brain Inflammation

One of the biggest enemies of mental clarity is neuroinflammation — microscopic swelling in your brain that messes with mood, focus, and energy.

Fasting dramatically reduces this inflammation because:

Ketones are anti-inflammatory
Blood sugar stabilizes
Microglial cells (brain immune cells) calm down

What you feel as “peace,” “stillness,” or “clarity” during fasting is not imagined. It's a neurological reset.

This is why fasting is historically paired with prayer — a quieter brain hears God more clearly.

5. Fasting Improves Emotional Regulation and Stress Resilience

During fasting, your brain increases GABA , your calming neurotransmitter, and decreases glutamate, your excitatory neurotransmitter.

This leads to:

Reduced anxiety
A calmer emotional baseline
Greater resilience to stress
More stable reactions

Many people say things like:

“I felt more patient during my fast.”
“I didn’t react as quickly.”
“I felt more grounded.”

That’s not just spiritual discipline — it’s biochemistry aligning with spiritual direction.

6. Why All This Matters Spiritually

You’ve felt it before:

When fasting, Scripture seems to come alive.
Prayers feel deeper.
Worship feels more intimate.
Decisions feel clearer.
The Holy Spirit feels nearer.

Why?

Because fasting creates the perfect internal environment for hearing God.

❖ A quieter brain

reduces the noise that usually drowns out His voice.

❖ A calmer nervous system

allows you to discern gently instead of grasping desperately.

❖ A sharper mind

makes Scripture more vivid and revelation more accessible.

❖ A humbled body

makes space for the Spirit to lead.

This is not coincidence — it is design .

God hardwired your biology to support your spirituality.

7. God’s Design: Why Did He Make the Brain Respond This Way?

Because fasting is not punishment — it is preparation.

Fasting prepares:

Your mind to hear
Your heart to respond
Your spirit to receive
Your will to surrender
Your emotions to stabilize

God created fasting as a pathway to:

Breakthrough
Clarity
Strength
Authority
Intimacy
Renewal

It’s woven into both biology and Scripture. 

The natural and the supernatural are not separate — they’re two sides of the same masterpiece.

Final Thought: The Divine Advantage of an Empty Stomach

When you fast, you are not weakening yourself.

You are:

Sharpening your mind
Cleansing your brain
Calming your emotions
Resetting your body
Awakening your spirit

You were built for this. 

God crafted you to thrive — mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually — in the rhythm of fasting.

Fasting doesn't just empty your stomach. 

It empties your mind of noise, your soul of clutter, and your spirit of distraction…

…so God can fill you with His wisdom, His presence, and His power.

The Three Realms

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 21:29:38 GMT

Which realm are you living out of?

According to Scripture, you and I move through three realms , whether we realize it or not.

1. The Realm of Sight — What We See

This is the first realm—the world of the five senses. It’s the realm of circumstances, terrain, visible obstacles, and physical reality. 

Bills. Doctor’s reports. Traffic. Deadlines. Bank accounts. 

The stuff in front of your face.

2. The Realm of Emotion — What We Think & Feel

This second realm is the unseen world of our thoughts, feelings, and inner atmosphere. 

Hope or despair. Peace or panic. Security or insecurity. 

It’s the realm where your internal weather patterns form.

And for most people, life is simply a constant oscillation between these first two realms. Sunny circumstances? Sunny disposition. Storm-cloud circumstances? Storm-cloud emotions.

It’s human. It’s common. It’s real.

But here’s the danger: the enemy knows this . And that is exactly why the second realm is where he aims his attacks.

Paul calls Satan “the prince of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2)—the master manipulator of atmosphere. He stirs the “passions of our flesh” and “desires” (Ephesians 2:3). He exploits thoughts. He inflames emotions. He weaponizes worry. He amplifies fear. He whispers anxiety.

The enemy doesn’t have to change your circumstances if he can change your interpretation of them.

And that is why spiritual warfare often feels like you’re battling a storm you can’t see but can certainly feel.

So what’s the solution?

3. The Realm of Authority — What We Know

This is the third realm— the realm most believers forget to access.   It is the realm of your position , not your emotions. The realm of your identity , not your instability. The realm where Christ is seated—and where Scripture says you are seated with Him.

“By grace you have been saved… and raised up with Christ, and seated with Him in the heavenly realms.” — Ephesians 2:5–6

This realm isn’t swayed by how you feel. It isn’t vulnerable to atmospheric pressure. It isn’t dictated by your circumstances.

Authority is not emotional. Authority is positional.

And when you operate from this realm, everything shifts:

You stop speaking from your emotions and start speaking from your throne-seat.
You stop reacting to the storm and start commanding the storm.
You stop living under circumstances and start living over them.

This is why Scripture says, “We walk by faith, not by sight.” 

Faith pulls you out of the lower realms. 

Authority anchors you in the higher one.

So let me ask you:

What circumstances are in front of your eyes today? 

What emotions are swirling inside your soul? 

What atmosphere has been pressing against your mind?

The Holy Spirit is extending an invitation:  Come up higher. 

Come out of the realm of reaction and into the realm of authority.

Don’t speak from how you feel —speak from where you’re seated. Don’t carry yourself according to your emotions—carry yourself according to your position in Christ.

You may feel shaken, but in Christ, you are seated. And seated people don’t strive. Seated people rule.

The Mind, Body, Soul, and Spiritual Benefits of Fasting

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 20:20:39 GMT

How Biblical Fasting Fires on All Four Cylinders of Human Renewal

Fasting has often been misunderstood as a fringe, extreme, or archaic practice—something reserved for hyper-spiritual saints or health fanatics. But fasting is actually a timeless and holistic habit woven into the design of the human body, spirit, and psyche. The Bible doesn’t say, “ If you fast,” but rather, “ When you fast” (Matthew 6:16). Perhaps that's because we were created for this ancient rhythm of reset, repair, and reconnection.

In this post, we’ll unpack the four dimensions of fasting—the mind, body, soul, and spirit—and discover how abstaining from food can restore us on levels we’ve forgotten we even have.

1. Fasting and the Mind: Mental Clarity & Emotional Reset

Your brain is the most energy-demanding organ in your body. When you fast, it gets a rare chance to switch out of constant glucose-fueled processing and tap into a cleaner-burning source— ketones .

Mental Benefits of Fasting:

Increased clarity and focus
Reduced anxiety and mood swings
Improved memory and neuroplasticity (your brain’s “flexibility”)

Fasting gives your brain a break from the constant churn of digestion and blood sugar regulation. It’s like switching off notifications for hours and finally being able to go deep on that big idea, lingering wound, or God’s whisper you've been too busy to hear.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” —Psalm 46:10
Fasting helps you finally find the stillness that leads to true knowing.

2. Fasting and the Body: Cellular Cleanup & Strength Renewal

When you stop eating, your body is forced to flip the switch from using quick-access carbs to slow-burning stored fat. But more happens than just fat loss—there’s a biological spring cleaning party happening at the cellular level.

Key Physical Benefits:

Autophagy: Your cells recycle and remove damaged proteins and toxins.
Reduced inflammation and disease risk
Stem cell activation (after longer fasts), fostering cellular renewal
Lower blood pressure, improved heart health, and better insulin sensitivity

It’s no wonder medical researchers are calling fasting a “ miracle therapy in disguise. ”

But as Christians, we know the physical is just one part of the story...

3. Fasting and the Soul: Realigning Desires & Breaking Bondage

The soul—the place of your emotions , will, and desires —is deeply shaped by habits. And few habits are as powerful (and as sneaky) as your relationship with food.

Fasting exposes what really controls us.

“Do I really need this, or am I just bored?”
“Have I trained myself to believe I can’t function without caffeine?”
“Am I eating to satisfy my stomach—or to soothe my soul?”

Fasting reveals where comfort has replaced calling, where cravings become chains. But it also gives the soul space to heal, to surrender, and to breathe deeply again.

“I beat my body and make it my slave,” Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:27.

Fasting reminds your soul who’s in charge—not your appetite, not your habit— you , in Christ.

4. Fasting and the Spirit: Deep Communion & Divine Power

Fasting isn’t just a detox for the body or a reboot for the mind—it’s an accelerator for spiritual intimacy and authority.

Spiritual Benefits:

Heightened sensitivity to God’s voice
Greater dependency on the Holy Spirit
Increased power in spiritual warfare
Revelation, breakthrough, and clarity in prayer

Jesus fasted. Moses fasted. Esther fasted. The early church fasted before sending out leaders and making decisions. Why? Because fasting doesn’t twist God’s arm— it tunes our hearts .

Fasting is a declaration:
“God, I want You more than anything else—even more than my daily bread.”

“This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” —Matthew 17:21
There are levels of spiritual authority you can't reach while feeding your flesh.

The Holistic Power of Fasting

Fasting isn't just deprivation—it's divine design.

It’s where:

The mind gets still
The body gets clean
The soul gets aligned
The spirit gets revived

Your body heals, your habits weaken, your spirit sharpens, and your purpose rises. All because you emptied yourself to allow God to fill what food never could.

Final Encouragement

If you're feeling spiritually dull, physically sluggish, or emotionally overstimulated—fasting might be your next step of obedience and breakthrough.

We don’t fast to get God’s attention —we fast to give Him ours.

Whether it’s a 24-hour fast, a 3-day fast, or a Daniel fast, let your hunger for food be a reminder of your hunger for God. He’s still the Bread of Life—and fasting simply clears the table of distractions so we can feast on Him.

Why Christians’ Involvement at the Gate of Government Is Not Christian Nationalism

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:39:03 GMT

Why Christians’ Involvement at the Gate of Government Is Not Christian Nationalism

Dismantling the Lies That Keep Christians, Pastors, and Churches from Engaging at the Gate of Government

My Story

I’ll admit it — I had fallen for the lies.

At nineteen, I was a student at a conservative evangelical Pentecostal college. It was an incredible environment — chapels filled with the Holy Spirit, professors who genuinely cared for their students, deep theological training, and lifelong friendships. But no college is perfect. Just like there’s no perfect church, family, or person.

As a naive young man studying for ministry, I absorbed everything I was taught. A few professors, however, began subtly introducing ideas like:

America was inherently racist.
The Founding Fathers weren’t really Christians — they were Deists — so our foundations weren’t truly Judeo-Christian.
Evangelical Christians had fallen into “Christian Nationalism,” trying to establish God’s Kingdom politically in America.

The worst part? These ideas were wrapped in Bible verses and presented as “the real truth,” making young, impressionable students question their upbringing, their churches, and their faith.

It took me years to realize what I had been taught wasn’t true.

Still wounded, I spent the next fifteen years convinced pastors and churches should steer clear of anything that even appeared political. But over time, through Scripture and prayer, I regained both my theological footing and my voice. It all began with one crucial shift — a truth I’ll unpack in this first blog.

The Primary Theological Shift

The biggest lie keeping Christians, pastors, and churches from engaging at the Gate of Government is the accusation of “Christian Nationalism.”

The claim goes something like this:

“Jesus wasn’t political, and you shouldn’t be either. You’re trying to make America the new Israel and turn the gospel into a political kingdom.”

In this model, the picture looks like this:

To be fair, there have been some who have blurred those lines — confusing patriotism with faith. But I believe that’s not where most sincere believers live.

The biblical picture looks different. It looks like this:

Jesus at the Center

Always, only Jesus.
My allegiance is to Christ and Christ alone. He saved me, transformed me, and remains my message and my mission.

The Church

Because I love Jesus, I’m part of His ekklesia — the gathering of the called — to worship, be taught the Word, walk in fellowship, be baptized in water and the Spirit, and be activated for ministry.

The Fivefold Gifts (Ephesians 4)

Every believer is made on purpose for a purpose. Each of us is called to discover and activate our apostolic, prophetic, evangelistic, shepherding, or teaching gift (APEST).
There’s much to unpack here, but for now, know this: these gifts aren’t just for pastors — they’re for everyone.

Gates of Society

Because I love Jesus,
and through the fellowship and teaching of His Church,
empowered by the Holy Spirit,
I am called to be a witness for Christ at the Gates of Society — including government.

When we see it this way, everything changes.
There’s no such thing as “Christian Nationalism” when Christ is at the center. My allegiance remains to Him alone — yet His lordship compels me to influence every area of culture with truth and light.

A Consistent Logic

In philosophy, truth must be consistent across all areas. So, if Christians are told to keep their faith out of government, that same logic must apply elsewhere:

Should believers keep their faith out of the Gate of Family ?
Worship Jesus on Sunday, but don’t disciple your kids on Tuesday?
Should they keep faith out of the Gate of Business ?
Serve as an usher on Sunday, but ignore biblical integrity in finances on Monday?
Should they keep faith out of Education ?
Teach biblical marriage in church, but stay silent while schools push pornography and gender confusion?

That would be absurd.
A mother who worships on Sunday but abuses her children is a hypocrite.
A businessman who tithes but cheats employees isn’t a true disciple.
Yet somehow, we’ve been told a Christian who avoids the Gate of Government is a hero — even righteous?

The Enemy’s Strategy

If I were the enemy, and I knew I could set up strongholds at the Gate of Government — systems of bondage, poverty, murder, lawlessness, and fear — my first move would be simple:
convince Christians to stay out of government.

“Use your voice to pray in your small group,”
“but don’t use it at your school board meeting.”

“Show up at church on Sunday,”
“but don’t show up at the voting booth on Tuesday.”

The Call

It’s time to rediscover our biblical mandate to be salt and light — not just in our homes and churches, but in every sphere of society, including government. Our allegiance remains to Christ alone, but our influence must extend to every gate where truth is needed.

Let’s silence the lie of “Christian Nationalism” by boldly living out the truth of the Kingdom — Jesus at the center, His Church empowered, and His people engaged.

Fasting for Breakthrough

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 19:36:06 GMT

In Acts 19 , we see a striking contrast between the ministry of Paul and the ministry of the Seven Sons of Sceva . Paul walked in true spiritual authority —demons fled, the sick were healed, and Jesus was exalted. The Sons of Sceva, however, while recognized and itinerant in ministry, lacked the substance of power. They had platform , but not presence . They had recognition , but not revelation . They tried to confront darkness, but darkness confronted them.

There is a line being drawn today —not just between the world and the church, but between the true church and those who merely perform religion .

The difference?

Authority.

And Jesus tells us how we receive it:

“This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”

— Matthew 17:21

As Keenan Clark says:
“God unlocks things for those who fast that He does not unlock for those who don’t.”

Years ago, I read Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough by Dr. Elmer Towns , based on Isaiah 58 —God’s blueprint for fasting that produces real power.
Below is that foundation, expanded and adapted.

As you read, ask the Holy Spirit:
What are You calling me to fast for?

The 12 Biblical Fasts (from Isaiah 58)

1. The Disciple’s Fast – Breaking Bondage & Generational Curses

Isaiah 58:
“To loose the bonds of wickedness” (v. 6a)
“I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father” (v. 14c)
“You shall raise up the foundations of many generations” (v. 12b)

Purpose: Break sin patterns, addictions, and generational strongholds—shifting your spiritual inheritance and blessing future generations.

2. The Ezra Fast – For Guidance and Solutions

“To undo the heavy burdens .” (v. 6b)
Scripture: Ezra 8:21–23
Purpose: Seek God’s wisdom when facing overwhelming decisions or challenges.

3. The Samuel Fast – For Revival and Awakening

“To let the oppressed go free .” (v. 6c)
“And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt… restorer of streets to dwell in .” (v. 12)
Purpose: Intercession for the lost and revival in homes, churches, and cities.

4. The Elijah Fast – To Break Fear, Depression, and Discouragement

“To undo the straps of the yoke .” (v. 6d)
“Then you shall take delight in the Lord .” (v. 14a)
Scripture: 1 Kings 19:4–8
Purpose: Replace emotional heaviness with renewed joy and strength.

5. The Widow’s Fast – Releasing Provision through Compassion

“To share your bread with the hungry .” (v. 7a)
“You shall be like a watered garden , whose waters do not fail.” (v. 11c)
Scripture: 1 Kings 17:8–16
Purpose: Generosity in fasting opens supernatural provision.

6. The Saint Paul Fast – Revelation & Calling

“And the Lord will guide you continually .” (v. 11a)
Scripture: Acts 9:9–19
Purpose: Spiritual clarity, vision, and divine assignment.

7. The Ziklag Fast – To Recover What Was Stolen

“And satisfy your soul in scorched places.” (v. 11b)
Scripture: 1 Samuel 30
Purpose: Restoration of what the enemy has taken.

8. The Daniel Fast – Health, Healing, and Strength

“Your healing shall spring forth speedily.” (v. 8b)
“And make your bones strong .” (v. 11c)
Scripture: Daniel 1:8–20
Purpose: Renew physical strength and health.

9. The John the Baptist Fast – A Pure and Powerful Witness

“Then shall your light break forth like the dawn.” (v. 8a)
Scripture: Luke 1:15–17
Purpose: Alignment of lifestyle with calling to influence others for Christ.

10. The Esther Fast – Favor, Influence, and Deliverance

“And I will make you ride on the heights of the earth .” (v. 14b)
Scripture: Esther 4:16
Purpose: God-given influence to bring deliverance to others.

11. The Daniel Fast (Part 2) – Breaking Territorial Strongholds

“To break every yoke .” (v. 6d)
Scripture: Daniel 10:12–13
Purpose: Spiritual breakthrough over regions and cities.

12. The Antioch Fast – Multiplying Disciples and Churches

Scripture: Acts 13
Purpose: To raise leaders and release kingdom multiplication.

Practical Tips for Fasting

Plan ahead (calendar + family conversations matter).
Write down your purpose— aim gives power.
The first 36 hours are often emotionally and physically difficult— push through .
Let hunger become worship.
Reduce intense physical activity.
Use Scripture, prayer, journaling, and silence.

A Call to Faith and Action

Fasting is not about earning something from God—it’s about making space for Him to move.
It is the yielding of our strength so His strength can be revealed.

The world does not need:

more clever sermons
more polished ministries
more Christian content

The world needs Christians who carry the fire of God.

So I ask you:

What is God calling you to fast for?

Freedom?
Healing?
Revival?
Your children?
Your city?
Your calling?

The invitation is simple:

Return to hunger.
Return to the altar.
Return to power.

The same God who answered Paul, Elijah, Esther, and Daniel still answers today .

Set your fast.
Set your faith.
Step in.
Breakthrough is near.

Fallen Mantles

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 12:33:24 GMT

Fallen Mantles

About ten months ago the Lord gave me a vision of a field full of brightly colored mantles. I somehow knew that they were fallen mantles.

Then I heard the phrase: “The second great abortion”

I asked the Lord, what is that?

I was reminded that every time there was about to be a great move of God and God was raising up a deliverer, the enemy tried to annihilate an entire generation

In Moses’ day, Pharoah slaughtered Hebrew baby boys

At Jesus’ birth, Herod killed infants under two

Since 1964, over 64 millions babies murdered in the United States.

So I asked, “God, what is the second great abortion?”

He said, It is the aborting of calling of a generation—a generation abandoning their God-given mantles. Students who were called at altar calls, kids camp, youth camp and walked away from the mantle to attend woke secular universities where they were brainwashed and indoctrinated to despise their upbringing, hate God, and hate their country.

But then the vision shifted. Over the crest of the hill dozens, then hundreds, then thousands of students came running with joyful exuberance and began picking up their mantles.

I believe we are now seeing this. A generation is awakening. A generation is rising. An army is forming. Mantles are being picked up!

Hiddenness (Part 2): The Spotlight of Heaven is Shifting

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 13:51:47 GMT

Hiddenness (Part 2): The Spotlight of Heaven is Shifting

The Lord showed me an image of a spotlight in the heavens that was being turned.

I felt like I heard, “The spotlight is shifting.”

The Lord is turning the spotlight of heaven upon a nameless and faceless tribe who will give glory to no man, but only to the Lord.

The inbreaking revival will not be led by a single person but through the tribe of the hidden.

The Lord is calling out to His hidden ones. He is saying to you,

You were not overlooked, bypassed, or forgotten. You were hidden.

Like Moses, I was protecting you.

Like David, I was choosing you.

Like Joseph, I was favoring you.

The Lord will share almost everything. He will share His power, blessing, victory, abundance, grace, mercy, forgiveness, favor, kindness, goodness, and love.

But He will not (He cannot) share His glory.

“My glory I will not give to another” (Isaiah 48:11).

“… and while my glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will take away my hand, and you shall see my back, but my face shall not be seen” (Exodus 33:22-23).

He hid you so you would not take the glory for yourself.

I feel the Lord is saying, But now I am calling you forth. It’s time. It’s time to write the songs, release the books, build the buildings. It’s time to use your voice, stretch forth your hands, climb the mountain.

“For the eyes of the Lord roam to and fro over all the earth to show himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to him” (2 Chronicles 16:9).

The spotlight of heaven is shifting. Tribe of the hidden, arise.

I Had to Hide You

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 13:46:46 GMT

What If the Stories Are True?

I hear the Lord saying to someone, “I Had to Hide You.”

You weren’t overlooked, bypassed, or forgotten, you were HIDDEN.

Moses. David. Joseph. Jesus. Sometimes, the ones God uses the greatest, He hides the longest.

Like Moses, you weren’t overlooked, you were PROTECTED.

Like David, you weren’t bypassed by people, you were CHOSEN BY GOD.

Like Joesph, you weren’t forgotten, you were FAVORED.

Bamboo will often grow underground for up to 6 years developing its rhyzome root system before anything is seen above the surface. Bamboo’s growth strategy is about delayed visible growth for the sake of long term strength. But once the root system is in place, it can grow 2-3 feet in a single day.

If it’s God’s time, it will become known soon enough. But don’t rush past the beauty and power in seasons of hiddeness.

Prospering in the Life of the Mind

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 21:32:57 GMT

What If the Stories Are True?

It was a crisp September evening in Oxford, 1931. Three men strolled through the twilight mist along a quiet path called Addison’s Walk. The moonlight shimmered off the streams of the River Cherwell, and the sound of rustling leaves whispered through the stillness.

The three men were C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Hugo Dyson.

That night, their conversation would change Lewis’s life—and shape the spiritual imagination of the modern world.

The Myth That Was True

C.S. Lewis loved myths. From Norse legends to Greek epics, the stories moved him. But to Lewis, they were just that: stories. Beautiful, yes. Inspiring, even. But ultimately, untrue.

He once described myths as “lies breathed through silver.”

Tolkien disagreed. Firmly.

“They are not lies,” he said.

In fact, Tolkien argued, the greatest stories—the tales of a dying and rising god—pointed toward a deeper, truer Story. In Christianity, the myth became fact. God, the master poet, told a true story. And the images He used weren’t imaginary heroes—they were real men and women in real history.

At that very moment, Lewis recalled, a sudden wind swept through the grove and shook the trees. The silence fell. They held their breath.

Something holy was happening.

Twelve days later, Lewis wrote,

“I have just passed on from believing in God to definitively believing in Christ…”

The Story had become real. 

The Word had become flesh.

Love the Lord Your God… With All Your Mind

Jesus said the greatest commandment is to love God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind.

The Greek word for mind in Mark 12:30 is dianoia—it means understanding, reasoning, intellect, and intentional thought.

To love God with your mind is to engage truth—not just emotionally or spiritually, but intellectually.

A Generation Hungry for Meaning

We live in a world drowning in information but starving for meaning. You can Google facts. But you can’t Google truth.

Like the Bereans in Acts 17, we must be both:

EAGER (prothumia) – hungry and passionate to hear the Word
EXAMINING (anakrinó) – digging, investigating, seeking understanding

“Now the Bereans were of more noble character… they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily…” —Acts 17:11

The Difference Between a Critic and a Researcher

There’s a big difference between someone who’s picky and someone who’s hungry.

The picky eater analyzes but never enjoys.
The hungry heart tastes and then says, “Now I need the recipe.”

You can be ready and a researcher. 

You can be eager and an examiner. 

That’s how you prosper in your mind.

The Battle for the Bible

There’s a dangerous trend today: theologians and influencers trying to perform exegetical gymnastics to make Scripture say what culture wants it to say.

Litmus test:

If someone has to do 8 paragraphs of explanation to tell you why the Bible doesn’t mean what it clearly says— be careful.

Satan knows Scripture. He quoted it to Jesus.

The real test is not just knowing the Word. It’s believing it, living it, and surrendering to its authority.

Take Back the Mind for Christ

For too long, we've handed over academia, science, and culture to secular ideologies.

We send our sons and daughters to universities that ridicule faith, only to be surprised when they come home disillusioned and deconstructed.

That’s not education. That’s indoctrination.

Would you send your child to Iran to “find themselves”? Then why do we send them to systems hostile to Christ and expect a different outcome?

It’s time to raise up intellectual missionaries —lovers of wisdom, lovers of the Word.

Faith Is Not Opposed to Reason

In fact, modern science was born out of a biblical worldview.

Kepler searched for God’s design in the stars
Newton sought to understand God’s mechanics
Mendel, Pascal, Maxwell—all believers
Today, the “Return to God Hypothesis” is growing in strength

The origin of the universe 

The fine-tuning of life 

The digital code of DNA

Each of these discoveries points not to nothing, but to a Mind behind it all.

“The most incomprehensible thing about the universe is that it is comprehensible.” —Albert Einstein

Move from Information to Revelation

Study. Examine. Read. Question.

But don’t stop there.

Ask the Holy Spirit to turn it into revelation.

“What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart imagined, God has prepared… and these things God has revealed to us by His Spirit.” —2 Corinthians 2:9–10

There’s wisdom not of this world… and it’s waiting for you.

Final Thought: Are You at the End of Your Understanding?

Maybe you're saying:

“God, I don’t understand.”

That’s okay. But don’t settle for wandering. Step into wonder.

When your intellect reaches its limit, don’t stop. 

That’s where revelation begins.

Because what if the stories are true?

What if the story of the dying and rising God is history ?

What if the story of redemption isn’t just meaningful—it’s factual ?

Then the only thing left is this:

�� Believe it. �� Live it. �� Tell it

Prospering in Spiritual Health

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 21:25:20 GMT

3 Levels of Guarding We All Need Around Our Heart

Imagine this.

I provide you a link to my driver’s license, passport, Social Security card, bank account information, and password list.

Some of you are getting anxious just reading that.

Why? Because we go to great lengths to protect our personal identity. You’ve probably got two-factor authentication on your phone. You’ve got password managers and fingerprint security.

But here’s the deeper question:

Are you guarding your heart with the same intensity and passion that you guard your passwords?

The Heart is the Vault of Your Life

Proverbs 4:23 tells us:

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — NIV

Your heart isn’t just your emotions. The Hebrew word “leb” means so much more—it’s your center. Your will, your thoughts, your desires. The very core of your being.

In biblical culture, to “guard your heart” was not optional. It was mission critical.

Because the heart isn’t just a vault; it’s the command center. And when the enemy gets access to your heart, he doesn’t need to knock down your front door.

He’ll settle for one click.

One DM conversation
One questionable expense
One “white lie”
One paper written by ChatGPT
One late-night moment alone with someone you’re dating

Failing to guard your heart is like handing Satan your spiritual social security number. He makes daily withdrawals until you wake up one day completely emotionally and morally bankrupt.

Sin is identity theft. It tricks you into becoming someone you were never created to be.

3 Levels of Guarding Your Heart

Let’s get practical. Think of guarding your heart on three levels:

1. The FORTRESS: Pre-Decisions That Protect You

A fortress i sn’t built at your front door. It’s built far away—so danger can’t get close.

These are your pre-decisions.

"Pastor, it’s just such a battle staying pure with my girlfriend." 

Then why are you alone in a house after 9:00 PM?

Don’t build your house on the fortress and wonder why you're always under attack.

Decide now:

Who will you ride in a car alone with?
What boundaries will you have with media?
What will your standards of integrity and honesty be?

These are not “rules.” These are reinforcements for your future.

The goal isn’t to see how close you can get to the line. It’s to see how far away from it you can live.

2. The FENCE: The Culture of Your Home

Fences protect the atmosphere you live in.

If something isn’t allowed in your home, it’s less likely to get into your heart.

Think of things like:

What kind of media fills your space?
What tone and words shape your household?
What kind of language is spoken to one another?
What kind of humor do you allow?

The words you speak and the media you consume are the thermostats of your heart.

A friend shared a dream of children playing with snakes that looked like puppies. The warning? “Don’t let them play with those. They’re not puppies—they’re snakes.”

The enemy often comes as something seemingly harmless, even beautiful. He masquerades as an angel of light.

So don't be paranoid. But don’t be passive either. You’re the gatekeeper of your house.

3. The FILTER: Living in the World with Discernment

Some people respond to this by retreating. Becoming reclusive. Pulling away from the world.

But we’re not called to live in prison —we’re called to live in purpose.

You’re not called to hide. You’re called to shine.

We need filters, not fear. Why? Because not everyone has filters around their mouths , and if we don’t have filters around our hearts, we’ll absorb all kinds of junk.

Offense, criticism, negativity, gossip—these are the poisons we inhale when we don’t filter.

And don’t be fooled:

Sharing negativity reinforces it in your own heart.

Adam Smith once observed that people get more satisfaction from sympathy in misfortune than they do in joy. 

The more you talk about the wrongs done to you, the deeper they embed into your spirit.

It’s not “getting it off your chest.” It’s etching it into your soul.

Final Question: How’s Your Heart?

Take a moment and ask:

Have I built a fortress?
Is my home protected by a fence?
Am I filtering what comes into my heart?

You were created to live whole —heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Let’s guard what matters most.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” —Proverbs 4:23

Prospering in Physical Health

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 20:59:39 GMT

How God Designed Your Body to Heal, Thrive, and Glorify Him

Did you know that God wants you to prosper?

I know, I know… for some, that’s a scandalous word. “Oh no, is he going to preach the prosperity gospel? ”

The short answer: No.

First of all, the gospel doesn’t need any adjective in front of it. It stands on its own—pure, powerful, and sufficient. Second, the Bible is full of examples of trial, hardship, persecution, and suffering. No one was exempt—especially not Jesus—and neither are we.

But the Bible uses the word “prosper” 84 times ! One of the most notable?

“Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.” —3 John 1:2

Biblical prosperity is holistic —mind, body, soul, and spirit. As Western Christians, we tend to compartmentalize: "spiritual health" here, "physical health" over there. But to the ancient Hebrews—and to Jesus—those categories weren’t separate.

When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He answered:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.” —Mark 12:30

That’s every part of who you are. 

And why? Because the Lord our God is One (v. 29). 

We were made in the image of the whole and unified God. We were made to be whole people. And if we’re going to thrive in spiritual life, we can’t neglect the physical one.

Or take the prophet Elijah. Elijah was a man of faith and power. But after defeating the prophets of Baal, he was ready to end his life. God’s solution to Elijah’s anxiety and depression wasn’t, “Pray more,” it was eating and sleep!

Let’s break this down into three core areas:

1. EATING: What You Eat Fuels How You Live

Let’s be honest—most of us aren't being attacked by demons… we’re being attacked by Little Debbie.

Consider these stats:

18% of teenagers have fatty liver disease
30% are prediabetic
40% are overweight or obese

Fifty years ago, a pediatrician might go an entire career without seeing these conditions in children. Today? They're commonplace—even in young adults, who are also battling:

Obesity
Fatigue
Depression
Infertility
High cholesterol

The truth is, American life expectancy has been declining for the most sustained period since 1860.

We’re eating more sugar (up to 3000% more liquid fructose ) than a century ago, moving less, and sleeping less. And instead of addressing the root causes, we’ve embraced a culture of prescriptions and surgeries— 14 prescriptions per American per year.

“Preventable lifestyle conditions are responsible for 80% of modern human deaths.”

That should stop us in our tracks.

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to inherit the disease that “runs in your family.” You were made to feel vibrant and alive, with clear thinking, balanced weight, healthy skin, and emotional stability.

Your mitochondria—the energy factories in your cells—thrive on real food. Think: “If God made it, eat it. If He didn’t, don’t.”

Pro Tip:

Forget the diet fads—Keto, Vegan, Carnivore, Mediterranean, Paleo—each has pros and cons. Instead, focus on real, whole foods , free from ultra-processed junk, high fructose corn syrup, and seed oils.

Check out the “Bobby Approved” app to help navigate food choices at the grocery store.

2. SLEEPING: God Designed Your Body to Heal Overnight

Some people think sleep is a waste of time. But God made your mind, body, soul, and spirit to come alive at night.

Here’s what sleep does for you:

Boosts memory and creativity
Heals emotional wounds
Regulates appetite and weight
Lowers blood pressure and heart disease risk
Strengthens your immune system
Processes and stores long-term memories
Provides “overnight therapy” for your emotions

“Scientists have discovered a revolutionary new treatment… It makes you live longer, enhances memory, makes you look more attractive, protects against cancer and dementia, and makes you happier.” —Matthew Walker, Why We Sleep

NBA Sleep Study:

Players who got less than 7 hours of sleep had a 67% higher risk of injury
More sleep = higher points per minute, better shooting percentage, fewer turnovers

Practical Tips:

Sunlight in the morning sets your body clock
No caffeine after 1 PM
Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily
No screens 90 minutes before bed
Keep your room cool (65°F is ideal)
Sleep is not laziness—it’s worship when done in rhythm with how God designed you.

3. MOVING: God Made You to Move

The average American spends 93.7% of their time indoors.  No wonder we’re restless, anxious, and inflamed.

Movement is medicine:

Raise your heart rate at least 3 times a week
Aim for 7,000+ steps a day
Go outside and play like a kid again

Movement isn’t just about looking good. It’s about feeling good, functioning well, and glorifying God through a body that’s fully alive.

The “3 P’s” of Hope:

Positive Future — Tomorrow can be better than today.
Path Forward — You don’t have to stay stuck.
Power to Change — You have agency. You have authority. You have God’s Spirit.

Final Thought:

You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be faithful.

“You form your habits. Then your habits form you.”

Start simple. Eat whole. Sleep well. Move more. And watch how your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical life begin to prosper.

�� 30-Day Health Challenge

(Download the free PDF on our app. Let’s do this together.

Let’s recommit to stewarding our temples well. Not just for our own sake—but for His glory.

Resources

Food and eating information from Casey Means, Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between Metabolism and Limitless Health

Sleep information from Matthew Walker, Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams

Why I Don’t Believe in Eschatology

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 16:35:03 GMT

Okay, confession time: the title is a little clickbaity. But I also really do mean it. And I think it matters. Here’s why.

First off, let’s clarify: the word eschatology is not in the Bible. That’s not necessarily a problem. After all, neither is the word Trinity , and that doctrine is foundational to the Christian faith. And just because Christmas trees don’t appear in Scripture doesn’t mean having one in your living room is wrong. (Unless it’s February. Then it’s very wrong. Take it down. Seriously.)

But back to the point — eschatology , as a term, didn’t exist in the vocabulary of early Christians. It wasn’t introduced until around the 17th century , during the rise of post-Reformation theology in Europe. The word gained real traction in the 19th century , especially among Protestant systematic theologians.

Again, the problem isn’t the word’s late arrival. The issue is the meaning it carries.

Eschatology = “The Study of the End”

The word combines:

Eschatos = last, final
-logy = the study of

So, eschatology quite literally means “the study of last things” or “the end times.”

But here’s where I push back: Revelation isn’t the end.

It’s not a wrap-up or a closing chapter.

It’s a re-beginning.

It’s Eden restored. The garden becoming a garden-city. The curse removed. Heaven and earth reunited. It’s not the end — it’s the again .

And sure, I realize this might sound like a matter of semantics. But let’s not forget: semantics shape theology, and theology shapes how we live.

If my framework is built around endings , I live clinging to this world. I fear death. I avoid Revelation because it seems scary and unfamiliar. But if my theology is rooted in re-beginnings , then I’m filled with hope. I long for a better land. I ache — in the best way — for the ultimate homecoming.

A Better Word and a Better Way: Palingenesiology

Let me humbly propose an alternative: palingenesiology.

It's built on the Greek word παλιγγενεσία (palingenesia), meaning rebirth or regeneration .

Palin = again
Genesia = birth or genesis

It appears in Matthew 19:28 , where Jesus promises “the renewal of all things.” This word captures not just the personal transformation of salvation, but a cosmic one — the full-scale renewal of everything broken.

Palingenesiology = the study of new beginnings. 

The study of Genesis again . 

The study of Eden again .

The study of a restored world where Christ is King, the curse is no more, and all things are made new.

So Let Me Ask You:

Would you rather study a theology of endings that feels fearful and heavy? Or a theology of re-beginnings that breathes life and hope into every part of your soul?

Me? I’ll take palingenesiology — every time.

If You Build It…

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 16:04:07 GMT

Making God’s Presence Our Priority

Finish this movie line: “If you build it…”

If you’re like most people, you probably thought, “they will come.” But that’s not the line. The actual quote from Field of Dreams is , “If you build it, HE will come.” It’s referring to Shoeless Joe Jackson, not crowds of people. But once he comes, the others follow.

That idea mirrors a powerful spiritual truth:

“Don’t build your church services to attract people. Build your church services to attract God. He’ll bring the people.”

It’s not about strategy first. It’s not about programs first. It’s about the Presence of God first. That must be our priority.

The Priority of Presence

When David became king over all Israel, his first act wasn’t political or military. It was spiritual. He longed for the Ark—the very symbol of God’s presence—to return to Jerusalem.

“Let’s bring the Ark of God back to us, for we did not inquire of it during the reign of Saul.” (1 Chronicles 13:3)

David knew what mattered most. He didn’t just want to reign with power—he wanted to reign with God.

We chase so many things thinking they’ll bring fulfillment—vacations, promotions, bigger houses, or quiet moments with the kids. But only His presence satisfies.

“Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

Presence Comes on God’s Terms

David’s initial attempt to move the Ark failed—because he tried to do it his way. He used a cart when God had already laid out a method: priests carrying it on their shoulders. The result? Uzzah’s death and David’s sobering realization.

We can't invite God’s presence while ignoring God’s pattern. He isn’t a sidekick to our plans. We don't cart the Presence— we carry it. Whether you’re a business leader, teacher, parent, or volunteer—you are meant to carry the Presence of God wherever you go.

Presence Brings Blessing

After the failed attempt, the Ark stayed in the home of a man named Obed-Edom—and the Bible says everything he had was blessed. Who was he? Just a man who made room for God's presence.

You don’t have to be special. You just have to get close.

When God’s Presence is your priority, His blessing follows. Favor, peace, provision—they aren’t the goal; they’re the result.

Presence Brings Joy

Three months later, David tried again—this time the right way. And when the Ark entered the city, David couldn’t contain his joy.

“David danced before the Lord with all his might.” (2 Samuel 6:14)

God’s Presence produces joy like nothing else can.

“In Your presence is fullness of joy.” (Psalm 16:11) 

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)

When we live in His Presence, joy becomes our default setting—not stress, not striving, not cynicism. Joy .

We Must Have the Presence

Like Moses once said:

“If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.” (Exodus 33:15)

Because without His Presence, it’s all empty:

A sermon is just a talk.
Worship is just music.
Ministry is just a program.
Church is just a social club.
Life is just… life.

But with His Presence?

Sermons become encounters.
Worship becomes transformation.
Ministry becomes divine invitation.
Church becomes family.
Homes become havens.
Life becomes worship.

Let’s make God’s Presence our priority.

Build your life, your church, your ministry to attract Him … 

And everything else will follow.

A Call for Authentic, Deep, Lasting, Culture-Changing Revival

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:02:32 GMT

The Backstory

I recently received communication from a family telling me that they were moving and asking if I would be interested in the husband’s father’s library. Before his passing, he had been a revivalist preacher in Texas and avid book collector. I was absolutely thrilled to be the recipient of this collection. As I took the boxes and boxes of books into my office and opened the first case, I was drawn to a small volume entitled Revival: The Need and Possibilities, and started to read. [1]

As I began to read this treatise on revival by British clergyman Cyril C.B. Bardsley, the words began to resonate. Although the words were penned 99 years ago in the U.K., it is though they were written last week in the U.S. I’m not saying I stumbled across the Qumran scrolls or the Holy Grail, but I do believe the Lord in his sovereignty led me to this book and I do believe that its pages contain powerful truths for us today. [4]

Our hesitancy with Revival: What exactly am I praying for?

I think some of our hesitancy to seek revival is that we’re not sure what we’re seeking. Do we mean a week of “special services”? Do we mean a temporary emotional stirring? Do we mean seeing some strange behavior? If we’re gut-level honest, that’s what some people may have in mind when they think of “revival.” And thus, the (understood) hesitancy to ask God for it. But that’s not what revival is! This small book that I came across has the most complete and powerful definition of revival that I have ever seen.

So I want to do two things: First, I will summarize some of the important parts of the first chapter and second, I will include a PDF of the first chapter for you to download and read for yourself. [5] For ease of the flow of thought, I have broken Bardsley's thoughts into headings. The headings are mine, but I have included Bardsley’s words underneath verbatim. I will begin with the foreword written by the Bishop of Liverpool which describes the state of the nation and then proceed to Bardsley’s treatise.

The State of Our Nation and Need for Renewal

Throughout the world there is distress of nations with perplexity. Men’s hearts are failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth. All the foundations of human society seem out of course.

… [The church] is filled with divine dissatisfaction. They are looking for, longing for, and praying for a revival of true religion. Everywhere the prayer is going up, “Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain that they may live.”

The history of Christianity from its earliest days until now unfolds the conditions of a great spiritual awakening.

When the dissatisfaction which possesses us has found a voice in more fervent and united prayer and has led us to a deeper penitence and renewed trust in God; when self-surrender takes the place of self-will; and prejudice, and suspicion, and jealousy, are lost in love; when we are ready, like Saul of Tarsus, to ask, with heartfelt submission, “What shall I do, Lord?” then the long looked-for revival will come. God will send a gracious rain upon his inheritance and refresh it when it is weary. There will be “showers of blessing,” and a revived Church will awaken the world (7-9).

F.J. Liverpool

Bishop of Liverpool

March 1916

A Message to the American Church After the Election

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 17:16:01 GMT

On the Monday prior to the 2024 Presidential election, our church gathered for a day of prayer and fasting. In the middle of prayer, I saw the number “312”. I had no idea what it meant, but I wrote it down in my journal with a “?” beside it. Then the Lord started sharing with me the rest of what I will share in this blog. A few days later, I realized what the “312” meant. (It was the number of electoral votes President Trump ended up getting.) I believe the Lord showed me that number as a confirmation that I was hearing Him correctly and that I needed to share the rest of what He was telling me.

Ephesians 6:12

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

We do not wrestle against personalities, but against principalities.

Daniel 10:13

But for twenty-one days the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way. Then Michael, one of the archangels, came to help me, and I left him there with the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia.

Daniel tells us that some of these principalities and strongholds are established over nations, cities, and regions through the vehicle of governmental systems (“Kingdom”) through the leadership of that government (“prince”). The stronghold was in place, in part, because of its alignment with systems that the government invited in, which allowed partnership, and therefore the establishment of the particular principality.

Strongholds Are Established Through:

Invitation
Permission
Agreement
Patterns

Principalities and strongholds can attach themselves to policy.

Policy either evokes evil or evicts evil.

(“Evoke” means to “invoke a spirit or deity”)

For example, policy has invited in and agreed with strongholds of:

Abortion
Chronic Disease/Healthcare
Lawlessness

But when laws/policies are changed, they serve as eviction notices for strongholds.

But Wait! Before We Celebrate Too Quickly...

There is both a great danger and a great opportunity .

Luke 11

14 Now Jesus was casting out a demon that was mute. When the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke, and the people marveled. 15 But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebub, the prince of demons.”

When strongholds start to break, not everyone is happy.

17 But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls.”

When strongholds start to break, it stirs up division .

20 But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.

When strongholds start to break, it is a sign that God’s kingdom is among us.

Now Jesus transitions to a metaphor, but keep in mind the context. The context is demonic activity and strongholds.

21 When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are safe; 22 but when one stronger than he attacks him and overcomes him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted and divides his spoil. 23 Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.

24 When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none, it says, “I will return to my house from which I came.” 25 And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order. 26 Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and dwell there. And the last state of the person is worse than the first.

Here is the Word to the American Church After the Election:

It is not enough for strongholds to be torn down.
It is not enough to ‘clean house and restore order.’
When strongholds start to break, our work is JUST BEGINNING!

We must put our foot on the gas!

What I Believe the Lord is Calling the American Church to Do:

Be aware of the enemy’s strategy of division and pursue unity.
Establish altars of God’s Presence through prayer and worship.
Establish cities of revival and renewal by taking the fire of the altar to the gates (major areas of influence) of the city.
Be personally committed to the greatest soul-winning effort of the generation.

A Lesson from The Black Widow

In the film, The Black Widow, it follows the storyline of Natasha Romanov and her sister, Yelena Belova. Yelena has been under the stronghold of General Dreykov, who has hijacked the minds of young women and formed them into an evil army. As Yelena is exposed to a red dust, it breaks the power of mind control, in a sense setting her “free” from the stronghold. But she is still in a state of hurt, confusion, loneliness, and is desperately searching for connection, family, and purpose.

There is something wrong with me. An emptiness. I'm just... drifting. And I don't have purpose. —Yelena Belova

Church, this is our greatest threat and greatest opportunity in the coming days. Strongholds are being broken! People will be set “free” from lies of deception and manipulation that they have been under for years. But just because they have been set free doesn’t mean they are saved.

This is our opportunity to step in and lead people to JESUS and to finding the life, family, freedom, and purpose that only He can give.

These have the potential to be the greatest years of harvest for the church.

But if we do not respond, it opens up potential for the enemy to come back in, seven times stronger.

The Choice is Ours.

I Am Calling You to Attention

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 16:54:07 GMT

I hear the Lord saying, “I am calling you to attention.”

One of the greatest tools of the enemy in 2025 is distraction. It is literally dis-traction . When you lose focus, you lose traction. You start sliding.

But the Spirit is bringing about an AWAKENING OF ATTENTION.

“Your experience is what you AGREE TO ATTEND TO. ”

The Lord is teaching you about the POWER OF AGREEMENT.

The Lord is teaching you about the POWER OF ATTENTION.

Jeremiah in the cistern.

Paul in prison. 

John in exile on Patmos.

Some of the greatest levels of revelation came when people were in prison.

God doesn’t want to put you in prison, but He does want to ARREST YOUR ATTENTION.

I see the Lord, the Commander of Heaven’s Armies, walking into the room of your life. He is commanding your attention.

I hear the Lord saying:

"I am going to increase my visitation. 

I am going to increase my revelation. 

I am going to increase my manifestation."

He is calling us to THE RUTHLESS ELIMINATION OF DISTRACTION.

“That the Lord may establish His Word that He spoke to me… if [you] pay close attention.”  (1 Kings 2:4)

Hineni.

Lord, Here I Am. 

May we live fully present to You.

Look to the Hills: Releasing Prophetic Solutions

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:32:53 GMT

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Christmas, Easter, & Pentecost: Why Speaking in Tongues

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 17:09:44 GMT

Christmas, Easter, & Pentecost: Why Speaking in Tongues

Christmas, Easter, Pentecost—A Foundation of Faith

Imagine a church that doesn’t believe in Christmas. Hard to fathom, isn’t it? No celebration of the miraculous virgin birth, no acknowledgment of the Incarnation—God taking on flesh to dwell among us. Now imagine a church that doesn’t believe in Easter. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our faith, the event that gives us hope for eternal life. Finally, imagine a church that doesn’t believe in Pentecost. It seems almost unthinkable, yet many Christians stop short of embracing the full power and purpose of Pentecost.

When it comes to the doctrine of the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues, some believers hesitate. "That’s not for me," they say. "It seems strange." But let’s take a moment to reflect:

You already believe that a virgin gave birth to the Son of God.

You already believe that the Son of God was crucified and rose from the dead.

But you struggle to believe that God can empower you with a new language?

Not fully embracing Pentecost and the empowering of the Holy Spirit is like celebrating Christmas without the virgin birth or Easter without the resurrection. Yet many Christians celebrate Pentecost—the birth of the Church—without embracing the gift of speaking in tongues.

Why Speaking in Tongues?

The question often arises: Why tongues? What is the significance of speaking in another language? The answer lies in the nature of God and His work in the world. When God initiates something new, He often uses language.

1. God Formed the World Through the Word and the Spirit 

In Genesis 1, the creation story begins with God speaking the universe into existence. “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth... And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light” (Genesis 1:1-3).

The Word of God, combined with the hovering Spirit, brought forth order from chaos. The enemy, however, cannot create; he can only distort. This is evident in Genesis 3, where Satan’s deception begins with a question: “Did God really say…?” The enemy uses distorted words to disrupt God’s order and identity in our lives.

2. The People of God Reform the World Through the Word and Spirit

 In John 1:1, Jesus is identified as the Word made flesh. After His resurrection, Jesus breathed on His disciples and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22). Then, in Acts 2, the Holy Spirit empowered the early Church at Pentecost. 

“All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” (Acts 2:4).

Language was central to this moment. Speaking in tongues signified the restoration of unity and the empowerment to declare God’s works across cultural and linguistic barriers.

3. Restoration at Pentecost: Reversing Babel

In Genesis 11, humanity’s unity in language at the Tower of Babel led to pride and rebellion. God responded by confusing their language and scattering them. At Pentecost, this fragmentation was reversed: 

“Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken” (Acts 2:5-6).

What was broken at Babel was restored in Jerusalem. God’s people were unified by the Holy Spirit, speaking a heavenly language that signified the restoration of divine power and purpose.

Language Shapes Culture

Babylon’s agenda often begins with changing language. In today’s world, we see this principle in action:

Sin is rebranded as “choice.”
Confusion is cloaked in euphemisms like “dysphoria.”

Confusing language creates a confused culture. However, God empowers His people to reclaim and reshape culture through the heavenly language of the Spirit. Whoever controls the language controls the culture.

Speaking in Tongues: Gateway to the Supernatural

James 3:2 says, “If we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.” When we surrender our tongues to the Holy Spirit, we invite His power into our lives. Speaking in tongues is more than a spiritual exercise; it’s an act of submission that unlocks the supernatural.

A Powerful Illustration

Imagine using an old leaf blower to clear a yard filled with oak leaves. It gets the job done, but barely. Then, you discover a high-powered leaf blower with the strength to move mountains of leaves effortlessly. Similarly, many Christians operate with limited spiritual power because they haven’t tapped into the full potential of the Holy Spirit.

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you” (Acts 1:8).

The gift of tongues isn’t just about language; it’s about accessing the power to witness, to work miracles, and to live in the fullness of God’s purpose.

Conclusion

Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost are three pillars of the Christian faith. While most believers embrace the miraculous aspects of Christmas and Easter, Pentecost often remains underexplored. Speaking in tongues is not just an optional add-on; it’s a divine gift that empowers us to live victoriously and change the world. By embracing this gift, we fully participate in the restoration God initiated through Jesus Christ and continues through the Holy Spirit.

Let us not celebrate Pentecost without embracing its power. Surrender your tongue to the Holy Spirit and discover the extraordinary power of a heavenly language. The world is waiting for a Church empowered by the Spirit, united in purpose, and bold in proclamation.

How the Prophetic is Tied to the Release of the Power of God in the Church

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:29:38 GMT

I am humbled that we are experiencing a greater manifestation of the power of God in miracles and healings in our church than I can remember in recent times. As I sit typing, I am looking at a cane in the corner of the room that a man handed me a few weeks ago during a worship service because the Lord healed him and he didn’t need it any longer. One of the guitar players on our worship team went in for a dangerous surgery. He asked them to double-check before the procedure. The mass was completely gone. A man in the lobby a few weeks ago was completely healed from cancer. A woman reached out to us yesterday after receiving healing from a leg that was shorter than the other. A man who had to sit down during worship because he was in so much pain in his hip and leg and whose doctors told him there was nothing they could do is completely pain free. And I could go on and on.

Why is this happening? The short answer is, of course, God! But the truth is, there are many people who want God to heal, so let me be specific and tell you some reasons why I believe the Lord is manifesting his power in this way.

You want me to do what God?

I remember the day the Lord told me, “Doug I want you to call forth the prophets.” My response was not an immediate “yes.” First, I told God that I wasn’t even sure what that meant or how to do that. Second, I wasn’t sure what to do with them if we did. But the Lord was gracious with me and began showing me, one step at a time, how to do this despite my questions and hesitations.

Our hesitation with the prophetic

I think many church leaders hesitation with the prophetic is that we have seen it misused in the church. People have thrown around “Thus saith the Lord” to share their opinions or push their agenda

Call forth the prophetic

Here’s the big thing that pastors need to realize. You already have prophetic people in your church! It is a gift from God and He doesn’t take it away just because you don’t believe in it or don’t know what to do with it. There are many people in your congregation who are sensing things, hearing things, seeing things, having dreams and visions. But many have “shut it down” because they were afraid of it and didn’t know what to do with it. Or worse yet, they had a spiritual experience when they were young and the curiosity of it led them down darker paths of playing with occult activity.

When you begin to teach on the prophetic and call it forth, it doesn’t “stir up weirdness”, those prophetic gifting and spiritual

2. Pastor the prophetic

What I’ve found is that the vast majority of those with a spiritual sensitivity and prophetic gifting want to be mentored and pastored! Sure there are a few rebellious ones who don’t, but they will quickly leave once they realize that they need to come under authority and covering.

3. Give room for the prophetic

Winning the Mind War: The Battle for Your Thoughts and Identity

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:11:39 GMT

In the timeless account of Jesus’ temptation in Luke 4:1–13, we find profound truths about the battles we face daily—battles fought not with swords or fists, but with words and thoughts. This “mind war” is where the enemy attacks, where we are most vulnerable, and where victory is both possible and powerful.

The Mindshift Moment

Erwin McManus, in his book Mindshift , puts it this way:

“Mental health, mental clarity, mental toughness, and mental agility all have one thing in common. The journey begins in our minds. This is where the battle is fought—and where the battle is won.”

The transformation of our lives begins with a transformation of our minds. But the truth is, no mental breakthrough can occur without anchoring that transformation in the truth of God’s Word.

The Missing 5%

While McManus’ insight is invaluable, there’s a critical 5% that makes the other 95% possible: the Word of God. Without the foundation of Scripture, our mindshift is incomplete and vulnerable to attack. Jesus demonstrated this vividly during His time of testing in the wilderness.

The Temptation of Jesus: A Blueprint for Winning

Luke 4 recounts the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness, fasting and praying. The devil tempted Him with three key attacks, each aimed at His identity and mission. These temptations mirror the mind wars we face daily.

1. The Attack on Identity

The enemy began with the subtle phrase: 

“If you are the Son of God…”

Satan knew who Jesus was, but he sought to undermine Jesus’ confidence in His identity, freshly affirmed by the Father at His baptism.

Likewise, our identity is often the first casualty in the mind war. The enemy whispers lies like, “You’re not enough,” or “Who do you think you are?”

2. The Lure of Instant Gratification

Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread to satisfy His hunger. But Jesus refused, declaring, “Man shall not live by bread alone” (Luke 4:4).

When we face moments of weakness, the enemy tempts us to settle for quick fixes and temporary solutions. Instead, we must lean on God’s eternal truth.

3. The Trap of Performance

In the final temptation, the enemy suggested Jesus prove Himself by leaping from the temple, manipulating God’s promises for protection. Jesus responded, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test” (Luke 4:12).

Too often, we fall into the trap of performing for others, seeking validation. Jesus reminds us that our worth isn’t tied to public approval but rooted in God’s unchanging love.

How to Fight and Win the Mind War

Jesus’ response to each temptation was simple yet profound: He declared the Word of God. This is our ultimate weapon in the mind war.

1. Recognize the Power of Words

From creation itself ( “And God said…” Genesis 1) to Jesus’ rebuttal of Satan, words shape reality. The enemy knows this, using words to distort and divide. He doesn’t always present outright lies but often offers half-truths that sound almost right.

To combat this, we must immerse ourselves in Scripture, allowing God’s words to reshape our thinking.

2. Remove and Replace

Winning the mind war requires intentional action:

Remove Toxic Lies: Identify and reject the lies the enemy whispers.
Replace with Truth: Memorize and declare Scripture to counter those lies.

Jesus didn’t just think the Word; He spoke it out loud. If Jesus needed the Word to fight back, so do we.

3. Transform Your Thinking, Transform Your Life

Romans 12:2 reminds us: 

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Renewal happens when we saturate our thoughts with God’s truth. It’s not enough to rely on meditation, self-help books, or coping mechanisms. We must memorize, meditate on, and declare Scripture daily.

Practical Steps for Victory

Scripture Memory: Your Secret Weapon

Memorizing Scripture isn’t just a spiritual discipline—it’s a lifeline. Here’s why:

It Honors God: Memorizing His Word demonstrates dependence and love.
It Changes Your Thinking: Replacing toxic thoughts with God’s truth renews your mind.
It Equips You for Battle: When the enemy attacks, Scripture becomes your sword.

How to Memorize Scripture

Write It: Handwriting Scripture engages your brain differently.
See It: Keep verses visible—on mirrors, dashboards, or phone wallpapers.
Say It: Speaking Scripture out loud improves memory retention by 50%.

Conclusion: The Final Word

The enemy is relentless in his attempts to pull us off course, but the Word of God is our unshakable foundation. Just as Jesus relied on Scripture to combat temptation, so must we.

Victory in the mind war isn’t achieved through willpower or self-help alone. It’s won by anchoring ourselves in God’s truth and declaring His Word boldly.

The power of life and death is in the tongue. Speak life. Speak truth. Win the mind war.

Challenge: This week, commit to memorizing one verse of Scripture. Write it, see it, say it—and watch as God transforms your thinking and your life.

Dry Bones, Hear the Word of the Lord

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 17:04:16 GMT

Imagine being part of a Navy SEAL team—trained, disciplined, and unified—only to discover someone within your ranks is sabotaging the mission. One mole can jeopardize the entire mission!

But what if I told you that the mission of your life has a mole?

The Bible tells us, "For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches” (James 3:2-5).

In other words, what we declare with our words can sabotage our future—or steer us toward God’s purpose. This is why your declaration determines your destination.

In order to steer your life into the destiny that God has for you, it is imperative that we align our words with the Word of God. The prophet

Ezekiel tells us how.

1) See in the Spirit

In Ezekiel 37:1-3, the prophet is taken by the Spirit to a valley of dry bones. It’s a grim scene: lifeless, barren, and hopeless. But then God asks a profound question: “Son of man, can these bones live?”

The obvious answer, looking at the surface, is no. The bones are dry, scattered, and devoid of life. But faith requires us to look beneath the surface. What do you see in your life, your nation, or your relationships? Are you viewing them with physical eyes, or are you asking, “God, how do You see this?”

We live in a world obsessed with surface-level living:

Surface observations of politics.
Surface posts on social media.
Surface relationships.

God is calling us deeper. He’s asking us to drill beneath the surface. Like a drill bit boring through hard rock, we must dig deeper into His Word and Spirit to uncover His perspective. Only then can we truly see the potential for life amidst the dry bones.

2) Speak in the Spirit

When Ezekiel acknowledges that only God knows whether the bones can live, God gives him an extraordinary command: “Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.” (Ezekiel 37:4)

Not every believer is a prophet, and not every believer has the gift of prophecy, but every believer can and should speak prophetically, declaring God’s Word over lifeless situations.

Speak the truth of Scripture into our circumstances.
Declare God’s promises over our families, communities, and nations.
Pray with authority, trusting that His Word will not return void.

If you see dry bones in your life—be it a failing relationship, a troubled workplace, or a weary heart—it’s time to speak God’s Word. Say, “Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.”

3. (Sometimes) Things Begin to Shake in the Spirit

When Ezekiel obeys and prophesies as commanded, something extraordinary happens:

“As I prophesied, there was a sound, and behold, a rattling, and the bones came together, bone to its bone.” (Ezekiel 37:7)

Do you remember your first car? Maybe it rattled as it moved down the road. In the natural, rattling often signals a problem. But in the Spirit, rattling means things are coming together. When you hear a rattle, don’t run. Don’t misinterpret the sound. It’s not a sign of things falling apart; it’s the sound of things coming together!

Your Words Have Power

Just as a small rudder steers a massive ship, your words determine your direction. Speak life, not death. Speak unity, not division. Speak hope, not despair. Your declaration determines your destination.

What are the dry bones in your life? It’s time to see them in the Spirit, speak God’s Word over them, and trust that He’s bringing things together. The rattling may feel unsettling, but it’s the prelude to resurrection.

Declare today:

“Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.”

Discover and unleash your prophetic voice and learn how to declare direction and destiny over your life by listening to the message series here.

The Power of Agreement: What Are You Living In Agreement With?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 16:53:10 GMT

Have you ever stopped to consider how much power agreement holds in your life? What you attend to, the voices you listen to, and the words you accept all shape your experience. The principle of agreement is woven throughout Scripture, and it’s a tool God has given us to align our lives with His truth—or to break free from lies.

The Story of Rehoboam: A Cautionary Tale 

In 2 Chronicles 10, we find the story of Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, who stood at the threshold of power but stumbled because of misplaced agreement. Facing a pivotal decision, he sought advice on how to govern.

The older counselors , seasoned in wisdom, advised him to serve the people with kindness, promising loyalty in return.

The younger advisers , his peers, urged him to assert dominance and increase burdens, speaking harshly to those he was meant to lead.

Rehoboam agreed with the wrong voices, rejecting wisdom in favor of popularity. His decision fractured the kingdom, leaving a legacy of division.

This story serves as a reminder: What voices are you living in agreement with?

Recognizing the Right Words

Words From the Enemy

The enemy often whispers words of:

Disapproval: “You’re not good enough. Do better.”
Punishment: “You deserve this pain.”
Heavy Burdens: “You’ll never get out from under this.”

These words bring fear, shame, and discouragement, misrepresenting the heart of God.

Words From God

God’s words, however, align with His character:

Goodness: “I am good to you.”
Light Burdens: “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Favor and Loyalty: “I will never leave you or forsake you.”

Jesus said, “My sheep know my voice.” Recognizing His voice is key to living in agreement with truth.

Wisdom vs. Popularity

Rehoboam’s failure highlights the danger of mistaking popular opinion for godly wisdom.

Wisdom often comes from life experience, humility, and the fear of the Lord.
Popularity appeals to our pride and the desire to fit in, but it rarely leads to lasting fruit.

In today’s culture, where youth and coolness are often elevated over wisdom, we must intentionally seek counsel from those with proven character and godly discernment.

Advice vs. Opinion

There’s a critical difference between advice and opinion:

Advice considers your best interests.
Opinion often reflects someone else’s agenda.

Rehoboam’s young advisers were peers, not mentors. They lacked the maturity and selflessness needed to guide him well. When choosing whose words to agree with, look for wisdom rooted in God’s truth, not personal bias or fleeting trends.

The Principle of Agreement

Scripture establishes a powerful principle: Nothing is established without agreement.

Deuteronomy 19:15: “A matter must be established by two or three witnesses.”
2 Corinthians 13:1: “Every matter must be established by two or three witnesses.”

Whether it’s an accusation, a promise, or a word spoken over your life, agreement determines its power.

You have the authority to:

Reject Negative Words: Just because someone speaks it doesn’t mean you have to agree with it. If your spirit doesn’t bear witness to a word, don’t accept it.

2. Break Harmful Agreements: Through repentance, you can sever ties with lies you’ve agreed to in the past.

3. Establish God’s Word in Your Life: Speak and agree with God’s promises to see them fulfilled.

Living in Agreement With God’s Word

Luke 1:38 gives us a beautiful example of agreement: Mary, the mother of Jesus, responded to the angel’s word by saying, “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Her agreement with God’s promise brought forth the Savior of the world.

How to Live in Agreement With God’s Word:

Read the Word: Biblical literacy transforms your thinking and helps you recognize God’s voice.

2. Memorize the Word: Hide it in your heart so it becomes your default response to life’s challenges.

3. Declare the Word: Align your confession with God’s truth. What you speak, you reinforce.

4. Live the Word: Let Scripture guide your decisions, attitudes, and actions.

Break Free and Step Forward

What words have you been living under? Words of fear, shame, or defeat? It’s time to break agreement with those lies and step into the freedom of God’s truth. Declare His promises over your life:

“I am chosen and loved.”
“God’s plans for me are good.”
“His grace is sufficient.”

Choose today to align your thoughts, words, and actions with the character and promises of God. There’s power in agreement—make sure you’re agreeing with the right things.

What will you agree with today?

Discover and unleash your prophetic voice and learn how to declare direction and destiny over your life by listening to the message series here.

Declaring Direction + Destiny: A Better Word

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 16:19:59 GMT

What Is a "Foreword"?

Just like a book’s foreword sets the tone and builds anticipation, this our life would do good to have a foreword in order to aligning our hearts with God’s Word—not just in our spiritual walk, but in every area of life.

Ministry
Family
Finances
Relationships
Emotions

The enemy has worked tirelessly to hold us back, whispering lies that keep us stuck in the past. But God says that the best is ahead—our harvest, our joy, our victory.

A Better Word (Hebrews 12:24)

The Bible tells us that the blood of Jesus speaks “a better word” than the blood of Abel. Abel’s blood cried out for justice; Christ’s blood cries out for grace, forgiveness, and redemption. His Word resonates with our deepest need for hope and restoration.

The truth is, we are formed by words. It was true in Genesis when God formed us through his Word, and the pattern continues today. The question, which words are going to form us? The negative words around us? The criticisms spoken about us? Or the Word of God spoken over us?

Choosing "A Better Word"

Read the Word Engaging with Scripture is transformative. Studies show that only 6% of Christians have read the Bible cover to cover. Let’s become part of the 6% club!

2. Memorize the Word Psalm 119:11 reminds us to hide God’s Word in our hearts. When we memorize Scripture, it becomes the anchor we rely on during trials.

3. Declare the Word Words have power. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that life and death are in the power of the tongue. Declare God’s promises over your life. Don’t sabotage your future with careless words. Instead, align your declarations with God’s truth.

4. Live the Word Psalm 119:105 says, “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Living forward means walking in obedience to God’s Word. It’s not enough to read or declare—it’s about action.

Moving Forward

Throughout Scripture, we see examples of individuals stepping forward into their God-given destinies:

Moses led Israel through the Red Sea.
Joshua crossed the Jordan River at flood stage.
Esther risked her life to save her people.
David stepped out as a shepherd boy and became king.

What Is Your ForeWORD?

Ask God for a passage of Scripture that will define your direction and destiny. Write it down. Memorize it. Declare it. Live it.

We can’t go back. The past has nothing for us. Our God is a forward-moving God, and His Word speaks a better word over our lives.

It’s time to move “foreword”. Your best days are ahead. Let’s declare direction and destiny together!

Discover and unleash your prophetic voice and learn how to declare direction and destiny over your life by listening to the message series here.

Fibonacci Spirals and Receiving the Recompense of God

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 16:11:51 GMT

Have you ever felt like your life is going in circles? Like you’re revisiting the same struggles or experiences, unable to break free? It can feel frustrating, but what if I told you that God often works in spirals rather than straight lines? This divine pattern isn’t just spiritual—it’s embedded in the very fabric of creation. Let’s explore how the concept of spirals, seen throughout nature and Scripture, reveals a profound truth about growth, restoration, and receiving God’s recompense.

Spirals in Creation: The Fibonacci Sequence

After a recent sermon, someone shared with me the concept of the Fibonacci Spiral, a mathematical pattern that reflects how many things in nature grow. This spiral is derived from the Fibonacci sequence, where each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, and so on. As the sequence progresses, the ratio between consecutive numbers approaches the Golden Ratio, or 1.618. This ratio creates a spiral that appears in flowers, pinecones, snails, sunflowers, galaxies, and even our DNA.

Consider the sunflower: its seeds are arranged in spirals to maximize space and efficiency, each positioned according to the Fibonacci sequence. Or think of a snail’s shell, a galaxy’s arms, and the double helix of DNA—all examples of how God has embedded this spiral pattern into creation. Spirals are a “smart” way to grow, allowing for expansion and optimization.

Spirals in Scripture: The Divine Pattern

The Bible is full of spiral-like patterns. Proverbs 8:27 reminds us that God “drew a circle on the face of the deep,” and Genesis 1:14 speaks of seasons, days, and years—cyclical movements that guide our lives. The book of Numbers and many Psalms are written in a spiral structure, revisiting themes with deeper understanding. The biblical narrative itself begins with a wedding in a garden (Genesis 1–3) and ends with another wedding in a garden (Revelation 21–22).

God’s work in our lives often mirrors this spiral pattern. When you feel like you’re “running in circles,” He’s actually elevating and expanding you. Each cycle builds on the previous one, bringing you closer to His ultimate purpose.

Spirals of Growth: Joseph’s Journey

Joseph’s life exemplifies this spiral pattern. He faced the pit, Potiphar’s house, and prison before rising to second-in-command over Egypt. Each phase seemed like a setback, but God was using these experiences to grow and prepare him for his destiny. Joseph didn’t just step into freedom; he stepped into recompense—a repayment that included physical, emotional, and spiritual restoration.

When you face pits of rejection, false accusations, or seasons of waiting, God is working behind the scenes. He’s not just preparing you for release but for recompense: restoration with interest. As Psalm 126 beautifully illustrates, “those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy” (v. 5).

The Five Aspects of Recompense in Psalm 126

Psalm 126, written after the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity, paints a picture of God’s restorative work:

Restoration of Territory and Finances (v. 1a) “When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion…” God doesn’t just give back; He multiplies.

2. Restoration of Dreams (v. 1b) “We were like those who dreamed.” After years of survival, the Israelites could dream again. God renews hope and vision.

3. Expansion of Influence (v. 2b) “Then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them.’” God’s blessings on His people become a testimony to the world.

4. Restitution of Emotions (vv. 2a, 3b, 5, 6a) “Our mouths were filled with laughter… and we are filled with joy.” God heals emotional wounds, replacing sorrow with joy.

5. Reaping of Harvest (v. 6b) “Carrying sheaves with them.” The harvest comes not just in physical blessings but in spiritual fruit.

Following the Spiral to Recompense

When you look back on your life, you may see patterns—cycles of hardship and growth. These aren’t random; they’re spirals, drawing you closer to God’s purpose. Just as creation grows in spirals, so do we. The pit may feel like a prison, but it’s a precursor to God’s promise.

So, the next time you feel stuck, remember: God is elevating and expanding you. He is the God of restoration and recompense, working in spirals to bring you to a place of abundance and joy. Trust the process, and let Him complete the good work He’s begun in you.

Learn from the life of Joseph how to release revenge, hurts, and wrongs and increase joy and dream again!

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGopQvG85coxyCr2MIb1aXzwJuk7XRzMl

Compost? Or Garbage?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:58:22 GMT

In the Gospels, Jesus tells a parable of six soils. Yeah, I always thought it was four too. But it’s not. It’s six. There are three bad ones: rocky, shallow, and thorny. And three good ones: 30x, 60x, and 100x. There are levels of multiplication. (More on that in a later post.)

Regardless, there is one variable in the parable: the soil.

Same seed. Same farmer. Same atmospheric conditions. But different soil.

Multiplication in our lives has less to do with the conditions around us and everything to do with the condition of our heart.

How’s your heart?

Recently, Camden and I put in our garden. Carolina red clay is not conducive to heirloom tomatoes. So every year, we have to work the soil. (You never get to a point in your life where you can stop working on the condition of your heart.) To make the soil conducive to growth, we added compost.

You know, compost—rich, fertile, amazing soil that is primed for incredible growth and multiplication.

But you know what compost is, right? Garbage.

Compost is simply garbage—in our case, food scraps, chicken manure, and mulched leaves—that have been exposed to oxygen. What’s interesting is that you can take those same food scraps, throw them in a plastic bag, and bury them in a landfill. Five years later, you can dig them up and find them largely unchanged. Why? Because they were not exposed to air.

Often we don’t get to choose what “garbage” is dumped into our lives. We all experience hurtful words, betrayal, pain, and disappointment. What we do get to choose is what we expose that garbage to.

Do we bury it? Or do we give it to Jesus?

If we bury it, we may cover it over and pretend it’s not there, but there will come a point when the undealt-with pain comes to the surface.

We say, “Time heals all wounds.” But that’s not fully true. Time heals wounds that have been exposed to healing agents.

If we offer it to Jesus, He will take it, heal it, and turn it into soil for multiplication.

Garbage? Or Compost?

Why not offer your pain to Jesus and allow Him to grow something beautiful out of your life?

Learn from the life of Joseph how to release revenge, hurts, and wrongs and increase joy and dream again!

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGopQvG85coxyCr2MIb1aXzwJuk7XRzMl

Joy and Growing Up

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 20:05:52 GMT

Is This True? This Line ‘Haunted’ Me for Weeks…

As I watched Inside Out 2, I found myself processing a particular quote that stayed with me for weeks. It led me to reflect on childhood memories and the nature of joy. Growing up in rural Western Pennsylvania (Kennerdell, population 241), my childhood was filled with baseball, swimming, sled riding, family, and all the simple things that make a kid happy.

Then I started asking the question: What makes a childhood joyful? There are likely several factors, but two that stood out to me were:

High Innocence
Low Responsibility

High innocence: People are basically good. Low responsibility: Other than the spelling test, I don’t have a lot on my shoulders.

Thus, high levels of joy.

As you grow up, innocence lowers (people are not always good), and responsibility increases (getting into college, finding a job, paying the bills). If this is what joy is tied to, then what Joy said in the movie makes sense: “Maybe this is what happens when you grow up… you feel less joy.”

Because we’ve been doing a series on the life of Joseph, I started tracing this line of thought through his story. If Joseph was somewhat of a “happy-go-lucky dreamer” as a teenager, what fed into that? Again, you can find both elements:

High Innocence: Even though his brothers didn’t love him, God had given him big dreams, and he was his dad’s favorite.
Low Responsibility: At 17, his brothers were tending the sheep, but Joseph wasn’t out in the field with them.

Then it all comes crashing down. When your family plots your murder and sells you into slavery, innocence is lost quickly. Over the next 20 years, the pattern continues: betrayal, temptation, false accusations, imprisonment—event after event that could shatter your worldview that “people are good.” Simultaneously, Joseph’s responsibilities grow: second in command in Potiphar’s house, second in command in the jail, and second in command in Egypt (during an international crisis where the feeding of the entire known world depended on him).

Joseph is now 37. His innocence has been shattered. His responsibility is heavy. And to top it off, he is confronted with seeing his brothers face to face. How does he react? Is he jaded and bitter? Does he seek revenge? Quite the opposite. The Bible says we find Joseph “weeping with joy.”

It’s one thing to have joy as a child. But is joy possible “after”? After you’ve been hurt? After the layers of responsibility pile up? Absolutely! If Joseph did it, you can too. How? Joseph knew what to embrace and what to release:

1. Embrace Your Emotions, Especially Weeping (v. 2)

Psalm 126:5 says: They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. Tears are seeds of joy. When you turn off your tears, you turn off the sowing of seeds of joy.

2. Embrace People (v. 4)

C.S. Lewis puts it poignantly in The Four Loves:

There is no safe investment. To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket – safe, dark, motionless, airless – it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. The alternative to tragedy, or at least to the risk of tragedy, is damnation. The only place outside Heaven where you can be perfectly safe from all the dangers and perturbations of love is Hell.

3. Release Hurt & Revenge (v. 5a)

Next-level forgiveness:

Forgiving people before they even ask.
Helping people forgive themselves.
Blessing the people who hurt you.

The time to forgive is every time you remember.

4. Embrace the Sovereignty of God in Your Situation (v. 5b)

5. Embrace the Responsibility of Your Assignment While Releasing the Ultimate Responsibility to the Lord (v. 8)

I don’t know what hurt you’ve been through. I don’t know what responsibility is weighing heavy on you. But I speak Joy over your soul. I speak Joy AGAIN in your life!

Learn from the life of Joseph how to release revenge, hurts, and wrongs and increase joy and dream again!

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGopQvG85coxyCr2MIb1aXzwJuk7XRzMl