The Rock of Central Florida: Recent Episodes

Steven Parker

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Genesis 37:2 (ESV) 2 These are the generations of Jacob. Joseph, being seventeen years old, was pasturing the flock with his brothers. He was a boy with the sons of Bilhah and Zilpah, his father's wives. And Joseph brought a bad report of them to their father.
Genesis 41:46 (ESV) 46 Joseph was thirty years old when he entered the service of Pharaoh king of Egypt. And Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh and went through all the land of Egypt.

You will notice there were at least thirteen years between Joseph having his first dream and when he ascends to leadership. During those thirteen years, much had happened to Joseph, which impacted and shaped him. Those years were tough, and I would imagine at times hopeless. Imagine the difficulty and pain Joseph endured; he was betrayed by his family and made a slave and then a prisoner. But through it all, Yahweh had a purpose and plan for those years. Those years matured Joseph, positioned Joseph, and most importantly, drew Joseph closer to Yahweh. Joseph never quit.

Too often, when times get tough, stressful, or overwhelming, people choose to quit. Maybe their faith is shaken, or their confidence is cracked, or they are just tired and want to throw in the towel. Whatever the reason, quitting many times will only rob you from the opportunity Yahweh has for you. Much like Joseph, you may not understand why you are where you are or enduring the process you are in. But if your faith remains in Him and not your circumstances, the outcome is always grand.

So, as you start your day, consider what you are enduring today. Are you walking out a process? Does it seem too much? Do not lose hope or faith in the One we walk with. He sees you, and He is with you! Don’t quit.

Hebrews 12:11“For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”

As we have learned recently, love is multifaceted and takes on many different forms. It’s easy to embrace the love that makes us feel good and lifts us up, but what about the love that brings correction and forces us to look inward? There are two types of responses to this kind of love. We can either run from it or we can make the changes necessary to continue to mature and grow.No one likes being corrected. Often the delivery can be harsh, and it can hurt our feelings. However, while unpopular, I would contend that this “corrective love” is one of the most important kinds of love a person can receive. Do we want to grow up or do we want to stay where we are? Guess what, correction brings change and maturity! Embrace it when Yahweh brings it into your life. Like the above passage states, it will later yield the peaceful fruit of righteousness. The end result if received correctly, will be the continued growth of a mature son.

Proverbs 4:23 (NLT) 23 Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.

Have you ever tried to do something and could not keep focused? Maybe it is because you are physically or mentally exhausted due to the late night you spent playing video games. Or the temptation of procrastination is pulling at you. The call of the television or the social media feed is drawing you away from doing the work set before you. In today’s world, our minds and hearts are under constant siege from the media, work, stress, and distractions.

In Proverbs 4:23, it reminds us to “guard our hearts,” which means to protect them from all things that are not of Yahweh or of His purpose. To diligently protect it from corruption and temptations. Often, these enticements are not obvious but can be very subtle and devious in nature. Many times, it is easier to avoid the obvious and much harder to avoid the inconspicuous.

Just consider Matthew 26:36–46, Jesus asked the disciples to stay up with Him and pray. But how quickly did they give in to temptation? Jesus says in verse 41, Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. He instructed them three times to watch and pray, and each time they went to sleep. What a missed opportunity to embrace the MOMENT the Son of God presented you! Sleep was the temptation, and they loss the moment.

So, as you start your day, consider your life and what distractions or temptations may get in your way of fulfilling your purpose. Are you guarding your heart above all else? It will determine the course of your life. Do not allow the world and all its diversions to steal your moment. Guard your heart.

Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace at all times and in every way [that peace and spiritual well-being that comes to those who walk with Him, regardless of life’s circumstances]. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16

It is commonly known that Shalom means peace and is often said as a greeting or a good-bye, and a declaration over another, and I love this version of this verse above.

Peace is an interesting thing. To be in the Father’s perfect peace does not always mean the absence of conflict. This understanding comes with maturity. Being in His peace and His rest means we trust in Yahweh God. We can look all through scripture and find examples of those who thought they would find peace outside the Father, but it never panned out the way they thought it would.

Jonah thought he would find peace running away from Yahweh’s instruction, even Abraham thought he might find peace by listening to his wife and producing an heir with her servant, and Paul thought he might find peace by killing those who professed to be followers of Christ. I think we can all agree, none of these events produced peace.

Interestingly, all these people found the Shalom of the Father by doing one thing- listening to Yahweh God’s word. Jonah did go to Ninevah even though it did not look good, Abraham did have faith even when it looked impossible, and Paul demonstrated how to live the life of a follower of Christ regardless of the persecution he faced.

Others like Joseph (Jesus’ earthly father) found peace in God’s word to him even in the cultural challenges, Esther found peace in her God while being threatened with death and saved her people among great opposition, and John the Baptist had great peace knowing he was preparing the way while conflict was all around him.

Perfect peace, Shalom, is being filled, complete and wholly at rest, in the Father. It is being full of joy and knowing that He works all things for your good if your trust is in Him, and you align with Him and obey His word to you. What the great men and women of faith that we read about daily in our bibles learned (some easier than others!) is that Shalom, the peace that passes understanding, is in Him and nowhere else. It is steady, not high and low. It is joy not just happiness. That is Shalom.

Consider today the amazing life that we get to walk with the Father. Consider the sheer awe-inspiring fact that it is His breath in our lungs, His DNA in our veins, and remember, He sent us into this earth specifically for this time. He knew exactly what He was doing when He sent one of you, and one of me.

Shalom, Shalom.

Psalm 96:5“For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols, but the Lord made the heavens.”

The title of this “Start your day” is meant to jolt the reader a little bit. Yahweh has revealed to me recently that we as sons need to be “present” in every moment. Sons should never be on auto pilot or simply going through the motions. For example, modern society is programmed to look down at a cell phone and scroll. What are we looking for on our phones? Nothing really.. We simply stare at a screen and waste hours and hours not being present in the moments Yahweh has given us. This is a wake up call! It’s one I needed, and I am sure there are others who need it as well. Can I tell you from personal experience that the action of not staring at your phone for hours at a time has been liberating. Dare I say, this enables you to hear Yahweh’s voice more clearly. When you are present in the moment, He can speak to you without having to filter through a cluttered mind. Start your day with praise and thanksgiving and put your phone aside. Do we still use our phone in our daily lives? Of course! However, do not make your phone your god and let it consume your life. Prioritize Yahweh, and I guarantee you will start to see Him move on your behalf in all areas of your life.

If your life is not influenced by Yahweh’s genuine, the counterfeit will fill the void.

Todd Murner of The Rock of NW Arkansas is our guest speaker this week.

Time and again Jesus refers to seeing and hearing. It wasn’t because those he was speaking to were blind and deaf naturally. Instead they were blind and deaf spiritually. It matters.

Collosians 3:14 “And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.”

But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”John 4:23-24

I am reminded today of the honor that it is to worship the One, True, Living God. Have you ever considered? We know His name, Yahweh. We have are given full and complete access to Him, day or night, any time, any hour. We can speak and commune with Him, directly. There is no middle man, we don’t have to have someone speak to Him for us because He is a far off God who only a few can communicate with. We can dialog with Him in the car, at home, on our lunch break, in the shower! We literally have all access to the Creator of heaven and earth, the One who put breath in our lungs, and His very DNA flows through our veins… and that is just the beginning. That is still standing in the doorway.

We have the opportunity as sons to worship Him, in Spirit and in Truth. How do we do it? Align with Him. We don’t have to wait for the music to play on Sunday morning, or the pray when someone tells us it’s time. We don’t have to be told to open our bible or listen to it audibly. Worship doesn’t only happen in the Holy of Holies, it happens in the outer court and it happens outside the walls.

We have the opportunity to worship our God and Father sitting in a restaurant and treating the waitress well and with our conversation at the table. We have the ability to worship at work by being a demonstration of excellence, and not participating in activities or dialog that don’t glorify the Father. Better yet, change the direction of the activities and conversation TO glorify the Father. In our homes, we can worship by sitting with our family and talking about His goodness, being mindful of what we watch on tv, and working together around the houseand serving one another. It is worship when we honor Yahweh God in extra-curricular activities as well, whatever they may be. It is worshipping Him in Truth to give your yes, and to give your no when it will cause compromise in the seen and unseen.

Every moment, every minute, and with every breath there is a chance to worship the Living God. Let’s worship Him all week long, and then let our gatherings be a continuation of the life we are TRULY LIVING, in worship and in truth.

Yahweh is calling his people to account. Without accountability the testimony of believers is irrelevant.

Yahweh is calling his people to account. Without accountability the testimony of believers is irrelevant.

“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3

As always, Paul has a way of reminding us who we are in Christ, and giving us the how or why, instruction and he seamlessly reconciles the 1^st and 2^nd Testaments. Nothing about our Kingdom walk is “textbook”, that would be religion. No one circumstance is like another and our relationships with the Father are not cookie-cutter, but, there are foundational principles we can rely on that will help us in our journey no matter how simple or complicated it may seem, no matter how extraordinary or mundane.

Regardless of wherever you are today this instruction applies, whether your day feels good or bad, easy or hard. If we are in Christ, let us keep our eyes on heavenly things. We have a choice every day to set our eyes on what is above (looking to the Father, locking eyes with Him) or we can look at what goes on around us. We can look to the right and to the left and be moved by the highs or lows or we can look straight ahead with vision and focus on where He is leading us. We don’t have to let what goes on around us be what is in us.

The old you may have looked around and been moved or swayed by what you saw or heard in the flesh, but if we have truly died and are new in Him, we are hidden (tucked away, secure and safe, covered). We have assurance that He is working all things for our good. Our minds aren’t filled with worries or vain imaginations, or endless concerns. Rather, we as a new creation are in step with Him, in His shadow, seated in Christ, and knowing that He’s already done it. Whatever it is, is already done.

My encouragement today is this: set your mind on Him. What is He saying today? Have a conversation with Him rather than a conversation about whatever is going on around you. Where is He moving? Discern where Yahweh is and position yourself in alignment. How is the Father moving today? Move in sync with Him. Set your heart and your mind on heavenly things.

Matthew 20:24-28 (ESV) 24 And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Today, in our world, people are often defined by their titles, status, degrees, power, money, and possessions. Based on cultural "norms,” a person who is CEO of a company must be “greater” than the janitor who cleans the restrooms. The world often looks at those who have more as more important. Their voice carries more weight, their opinions are right, and they become the standard we are judged against.

This in no way disparages those who seek new opportunities or those who are already in positions of influence. It is saying the world is not the standard, but the Kingdom of God is. It is a matter of the heart; that is what Christ was pointing out in Matthew 20. Those who have more are not more valuable to Yahweh. Yahweh focuses on the character of the person, and are they a reflection of His principles? Do not find your identity in those things in this world. Because, as a son and as a daughter, you are joint heirs with Christ in Yahweh’s Kingdom. Your identity is in Him, not what you can do or what you own.

So, as you start your day, consider your life and your approach to your responsibilities and opportunities. Are you faithful and excellent in whatever role Yahweh gives you? Are you faithful to the finances He entrusted to you? Are you pursuing His Kingdom? He may have you be a CEO one day, and on another day, you could be digging ditches. Regardless, how are you approaching the possibilities you are given? I say, be as Christ and reflect His character, not the world.

John 14:17“Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”

Please do not misinterpret the title here. At first glance, it may appear that I am saying to not stand up for the truth. I AM NOT! Let me start here. The world today does not recognize the truth of Yahweh. Everyone has what they consider their own truth, and they make decisions based on whatever they perceive that to be. We, as sons, are called to speak the truth. This means that what Yahweh speaks, we speak. It’s not a debate, nor is it a topic that you research, so that you can have all of your talking points lined up to argue with people. You simply speak the truth. You make it direct, and you do not water it down. You may hurt feelings, but this cannot be a consideration when speaking it.

Zechariah 8:16“These are the things that you shall do: Speak the truth to one another; render in your gates judgments that are true and make for peace;”

Start your day in the truth and walk it out. Yahweh will guide you and give you the words to speak. You won’t need to add or take away.

Proverbs 11:24-25“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”

Steve taught us on Sunday the importance of the tithe and the offering. While it may make some people uncomfortable to talk about money, I can personally testify that this is one of the most important principles in the Kingdom. Whether you make a little or you have abundance, the tithe is a “nonnegotiable” with Yahweh if you want to walk in blessing and favor. And guess what? It’s not only about money! When we give what Yahweh has required from our income, the fruit from it is evident in all areas of our lives. I speak from experience. Clinging to what you have desperately and not giving freely will only make you lose it all in the end. If you are struggling, I would encourage you to start your day by doing an inventory on your giving. Are you bringing the 10% Yahweh requires? If not, start now! Take it step by step and be faithful over it until it becomes a flowing river in your life. After that, ask what you can offer above and beyond the 10%. I promise you, any discomfort you have from giving will be overtaken by the abundance and fruit that will come pouring in when you are faithful. Be a cheerful giver! Be generous and have a great week!

Yahweh desires our heart, our attention, our obedience, our time, and our worship. He wants our first, and our best and He isn’t looking for what is leftover. The Father wants all of who we are….

But I’m here to testify today, He wants our attention. Today, consider these men who gave Him their attention.

The Father spoke to Moses in Exodus 3:2-4 through a burning bush. Obviously, a bush that burns yet doesn’t burn up will get your attention… or would it? He could’ve glanced at that bush as he walked by and thought, “Oh it must’ve caught fire. It’ll die out” and kept on about his day. Instead, he sought to seeFURTHER. After Yahweh saw Moses was investigating the burning bush, He spoke. He wanted Moses’ attention and had it.Moses was quick to answer, “Here I am” and then listened. This moment was the beginning- it began with a burning bush and resulted in the exodus and freedom of an entire nation.

Yahweh had Elijah’s attention in 1 Kings 19:11-13.

Yahweh sent fire, an earthquake, the wind, but He wasn’t found in any of those. He was in a quiet whisper. Elijah had his attention on the Father which enabled him to discern that God wasn’t in the natural elements in that moment. He was paying attention therefore he heard the quiet whisper. The Fatherbrought encouragement to Elijah who had fled in fear. Yahweh spoke, and Elijah set about doing the Father’s proceeding instruction.

We all know the story of Jonah being swallowed by the fish. But, the story didn’t end there. Jonah gave his attention to the Father while he was in Nineveh, but he became frustrated with Yahweh’s compassion for the people of the city. In Jonah 4,Yahweh sent a worm to eat the very plant He had given Jonah for shade and comfort- to get his attention. Yahweh had a plan, and he needed Jonah’s mind and heart aligned with His to help the people of Nineveh.

There are so many others… Would Noah have built a boat if he weren’t paying attention? Would Esther have saved her people if her attention was not on Yahweh? Would Joseph have married Mary if his attention was misplaced? Would Samuel have anointed David as king if his attention was elsewhere?

Yahweh is so very faithful. He wants our attention- all of it, in the small things and in the great, in the seen and the unseen, and it is for our good! He really is in every detail in every arena- personal, professional, natural, and spiritual. Too often people will discount the very thing that the Father is showing or speaking to them.

Every day, He’ll order your steps, and He can (and will!) use anything He sees fit to lead and guide you. My encouragement is this: set yourself today to pay attention- to Him.

Don’t discount what you see before considering if Yahweh is getting your attention.

Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV) 14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Have you ever noticed that when you walk into a dark room, a small light influences the entire room? It does not matter where in the room you move the light; it still impacts the room. The only way to limit the light’s ability is to either cover it up or remove it.Christ directs us to let our light shine before others and to not cover it up or hide it. This light is a representation of the anointing, authority, and power you have been given. This light is a reflection of the Light of Christ that is in you.Recently, a friend confided with me about some challenges he was dealing with regarding career and financial choices. At times, he even made excuses for some of the decisions that brought him to his current state. As a friend, I began to encourage and support him, but I also spoke the truth to him. I wanted my light to shine, and this light was manifested by speaking truth to his situation. Speaking the truth can be sharp, dividing, and difficult for others to hear. Frankly, it may even be emotionally challenging for the person sharing. But if you genuinely love and care for others, there is no compromise, and your light must shine.So, as you start your day, have there been times you covered up your light? Have you ever just walked away and removed your light? As you walk by the Spirit of God, He will adjust and guide your light. There will be times when your light needs to be bright, sharp, and exposing. And there will be times when it needs to be comforting, warm, and still. Hear His voice and obey it as you glow before others. Do not cover it up.

Today I bring you an abundance of encouragement, and goodness. Yahweh God has amazing things for YOU. We do not need to go seeking for the blessing, the favor, or His goodness but we seek Him, we seek relationship, to commune, to abide in His word, to walk in His ways, and advance the Kingdom until all the earth is filled with His glory. This week, this scripture has continually risen in my spirit man as a reminder of Yahweh’s intent, and His promises.

The LORD will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The LORD your God will bless you in the land he is giving you. The LORD will establish you as his holy people, as he promised you on oath, if you keep the commands of the LORD your God and walk in obedience to him. Deuteronomy 28:8-9

Consider this: His promises are yes and amen. We can be confident in His word because He does not lie. When Yahweh ‘says’ it is therefore so. There is no doubt, no ‘if He gets around to it’. No matter the impossibility or the difficulty of the thing. It does not matter what it may look like in a moment. (Hello Abraham, Jacob, Mary, Daniel, Paul?) The Father’s word is irrefutable, undeniable, inarguable, true and sure.

Deuteronomy 28 is but one example of many that stand as a reminder of all that Yahweh has for those who honor and glorify Him. His promise is that He will SEND the blessing. It will come from behind and overtake us. We will not have to squint to see it, strive and struggle to find it, but it will be on everything we put our hand to if we walk in His ways. What way? The way He is speaking to you, that He established for you before the beginning of time.

So today, be confident in Him. Walk in obedience to what He speaks to you. Trust His word. Hear and obey His voice and take delight in doing so and know….

When we are in alignment with the Father, and moving according to His word our barns will overflow. You will need bigger barns! Everything you put your hand to will flourish. You will not have to seek out the blessing, but it will come from behind and overtake you, in abundance. Whatever land He has given you will produce, and the blessing will be evident. He will establish you as His very own so that the earth will see His glory. Yahweh delights in showing up and showing off for those who love and honor Him. Be confident in your Father, your Creator, and your God today.

James 1:2-3 (ESV) 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.

If you look up the word steadfastness, it means “firmly fixed in place, immovable, determined.” In other words, when someone is steadfast, they will not run, they will hide, they will not coward, and they will not turn away. They are firmly planted and ready to withstand whatever may come.

In James 1:2-3, Yahweh instructs us that we WILL meet various trials and to allow them to eventually produce steadfastness in our hearts. Too often, we get this process backwards and believe we must be steadfast first, and then we can face those trials. But see, Yahweh does not want a man-made type of determination, but one that He molds and fashions.

The other day, while talking with a friend, he shared how difficult his current season was as he was having to make some challenging decisions. He asked, “Why was it so hard?" “Why him?" and “Why now?” In my time of encouraging him, Holy Spirit reminded me of James 1:2-3, and I challenged him to count it all joy. The season was not there to punish him but to work in him. The trial needed to uncover those fractured spots in his life in order to remove them. Therefore, a new foundation can be laid in him, one that is steadfast.

So, as you start your day, consider: do you have some fractured spots in your foundation? Do you have a crack in your faith? Consider the season you are in; are you facing some challenges, some ordeals? Count it all joy, for those do not come to destroy you but to change you. Yahweh will use those moments to work in you and establish a new foundation. He is making you steadfast; let Him do His work!

Our attitude toward tithing reflects our attitude toward God. He does not ask us to pay him for his love, but he does expect us to sow into his purpose.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Phil.4:8. (ESV)

This verse has a tendency for Believers to try to practice in their own strength, and not lean into The Father so that these “things” become a way of life for them. The reality of it is that these virtues are ONLY possible with a right relationship with Yahweh and because they represent Him and who He is, drawing nearer to Him brings out these virtues. If you are frustrated with trying to “think on these things”, pause and think on Him. It will change your situation and your outlook on life.

Consider today, as you are going about your business, leaning into Yahweh and watch as He moves in every moment. The true and the beautiful will always prevail in Christ.

3 John 1:4“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”

Steve taught us this past Sunday that when we prioritize something, our children will also make it a priority. Kids are always watching their parents and will often mimic what they do. This can be good or bad. For example, have you ever run into a child with a foul mouth? I will almost guarantee the parents use fowl language in the home. On the other hand, a child who is respectful and kind more than likely learned to be that way from their parents. My point is, we as parents have a responsibility to our children to set a righteous example. We have been called to train up the next generation, and we do that by showing them which path to go down. Our children should be able to not only build on our accomplishments, but also stand on our shoulders and go further than us. I would also mention that even if you don’t have biological children, you are still setting an example for the kids Yahweh has placed in your life. Start your day by setting your intent and focus on being the best example you can be for the next generation. Kids will imitate what you do, so make sure your words and actions are worth imitating.

I’m currently considering things through the Hebrew letter Tav. Recently, I’ve been deeply engaged with the story of Lazarus. Read about it in John 11. You can hear Kim Parker teach on Tav on The Rock Podcast.

The ancient form of Tav looks like the cross, and it doesn’t stop there but becomes a door of Truth. Just as we come to the cross for salvation, we also mustn’t stop there but continue to the next step. We go beyond the cross and step into relationship, we step into Christ, and become a new creation.

“Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.” When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.” John 11:39-44

There is so much beauty in this part of Lazarus’ story. He died. Four days dead to be exact. His body would even begin to stink. Jesus’ instruction to Martha is a powerful one- “believe, and you will see the glory of God.” He called upon her faith. Jesus didn’t care how many days passed and was unbothered by any odor. Christ commanded the stone be rolled away, and the man that was dead to come forth. Jesus commanded death to release its grip. When Lazarus came out of the tomb, he didn’t look new yet. He looked terrible, but that wasn’t the end. Wrapped in linens, probably unable to see, hear, or move freely until Jesus commanded the next step. “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.” That wasn’t the end either. Jesus knew there was a new man under those garments.

It's the great and wonderous process that caused everyone there to see the glory of God. Death wasn’t the end and even resurrection wasn’t the end. He called Lazarus out of darkness into light, and he was completely transfomed. His appearance and his countenance were new. The way he saw things and heard things changed, and even the way he spoke. I believe his mindsets were new which made his walk brand new.

Wherever you are in the process, don’t quit. Lazarus’ testimony still speaks. What testimony will come from your process? Who will see and hear the glorious deeds of Yahweh in your life?

Ecclesiastes 7:1 (ESV) 1 A good name is better than precious ointment, and the day of death than the day of birth.

Have you ever heard the quote, “What’s in a name?” This quote originated from William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet. The full quote is “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet.” In other words, it does not matter what something is named, but who or what they are is most important.

I understand the objective of this statement and the context in which it was made. But the truth is that a name is important, and it does matter. Yahweh points out the value of a “good name” in Ecclesiastes 7, for the name is a reflection of one’s reputation and character. For instance, when you hear the name Jesus, what do you think of? What do you consider? Every person will have specific impressions and beliefs about Jesus just by hearing His name. It will solicit thoughts and emotions about Him. For me, when I hear Jesus’ name, it produces peace and a recognition of Who and What He is in my life—more than I can describe in words.

Recognizing the value in a name, what do people consider when they hear your name? Granted, a name is not the person, but it does represent who and what the person is. It is a reflection of you. So, as you start your day, ask yourself what my reflection is to others. Do you have a good name?

Consider this: In our fast-paced world of smartphones and bite-sized social media, it's easy to skim through things without truly absorbing their meaning– we’re almost trained to.

If we’re being honest, this is especially true when it comes to reading the Bible, or devotions (just like this one). Yet, as Thomas Boston, an eighteenth-century Scottish pastor, reminds us, the best way to gain nourishment from Scripture is to read with what he deems “holy attention.”

Boston’s advice is profound: “Read with a holy attention, arising from the consideration of the majesty of God, and the reverence due to him. This must be done with attention, first, to the words; second, to the sense; and, third, to the divine authority of the Scripture, and the obligation it lays on the conscience for obedience.”

Reflect on this: the Bible is not just a book; it’s God’s revelation of Himself. When we read with holy attention, we recognize that we are encountering God. This awareness should lead us to approach Scripture with worshipful, teachable, and obedient hearts.

So what are some ways to take some solid eighteenth-century advice and bring it into today? Here are just a few ways. Remember, the key is to engage the mind and emotions differently to better facilitate a connection with the Spirit.

1) Listen. Put on an audio version of the bible, and imagine the scene with your eyes closed.

2) Doodle. Yes, draw an interesting abstract of what you’re reading– no art skills required.

3) Read aloud. It’s proven it engages a different part of your brain.

4) Journal. Write your thoughts about what you just read.

5) Scribe. Write scriptures that stand out word for word to rehearse them.

These are just a few ideas to try every now and again to practice holy attention.

Consider this. In a world obsessed with appearances, it’s easy to be swayed by outward looks and achievements. We often judge others based on their status, appearance, or success (which can be grossly overstated or even outright faked) . But Yahweh God offers a radically different perspective, one that challenges us to look deeper.

1 Samuel 16:7 (MSG) says, “But God told Samuel, ‘Looks aren’t everything. Don’t be impressed with his looks and stature. I’ve already eliminated him. God judges persons differently than humans do. Men and women look at the face; God looks into the heart.’”

When Samuel was sent to anoint the next king of Israel, he initially focused on outward appearances and his intellect. Now it’s important to remember, those things aren’t inherently bad– things that look nice and that make sense are often wonderful– but God’s instruction was clear: true worth is found within.

Think about your own life. Are you focused on cultivating an image, or are you nurturing a heart that truly aligns with God’s values and his Word? It’s easy to be distracted by the external and the obvious, but it’s the things that we can’t easily see that have the most value to Yahweh. God values integrity, humility, and a heart that seeks Him above all else.

Take time today to examine your heart. Ask God to reveal areas where you might be focusing too much on appearances. Invite Him to shape your inner being, developing qualities that reflect His character.

Let this principle guide you. Look beyond the surface in your interactions with others and in your self-reflection. Embrace the deeper, lasting values that God cherishes. When you align your heart with Yahweh God’s, you live with authenticity and purpose, reflecting the true essence of who God created you to be.

Consider this. In the fast-paced rhythm of our daily lives, it can be easy to forget to pause and find strength in the presence of Yahweh God.

Psalm 46:1-3 (MSG) says, “God is a safe place to hide, ready to help when we need Him. We stand fearless at the cliff-edge of doom, courageous in sea storm and earthquake, before the rush and roar of oceans, the tremors that shift mountains.”

Reflect on this: God is always ready to help, no matter the circumstances. Whether you’re facing a personal crisis or the overwhelming challenges of the world around you, God’s presence provides a sanctuary of peace and strength. Really. Truly. It’s a tangible, real thing– not a fairy tale. When you ground yourself in His love and protection, you can face life’s storms with courage and confidence.

Yahweh God is here, ready, waiting, and his presence is one of omnipresence. His goodness is everywhere. But to be more specific, this is a Psalm– so this is rooted in worship.

Read this in your mind, or say it out loud (or sing it if you’re especially feeling it):God you are my safe place to hide.

Yahweh, you’re here with me, helping me.

I needed you, so I’m calling you.

I feel your power.

I’m fearless on the cliff-edge

You protect me in the face of doom

You make me courageous in the sea storm and earthquake

You lift me up in the rush and roar of the oceans

In the tremors that shift mountains

So how much more are you with me now?

Yahweh you are Mighty

Be encouraged to trust God completely. Let’s shift our focus from the chaos around us to the steadfastness of His Matchless Power. It is available to us. He is available to us.

Consider this. In our society, there seems to be an endless quest for “success” and “fulfillment.” But if we use the most commonly accepted standards for these things, it’s easy to overlook the timeless wisdom that guides us toward true peace.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG) says, “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track.”

True wisdom comes from trusting God completely, relinquishing our need for control and listening for His guidance.

Trusting God from the bottom of your heart means surrendering your fears, doubts, and uncertainties to Him. It’s an act of faith, believing that His plans for you are good and that His guidance is perfect. When you let go of the need to figure everything out on your own, you make room for God’s wisdom and Word to lead you.

Reflect on this: what is the true definition of success? How about fulfillment? Because I believe you can achieve them today, literally right now. By deciding that in every decision– big or small– Yahweh God is present, offering His wisdom.

Consider your own life—where are you striving to control outcomes? Where do you need to trust God more fully? As you reflect on these questions, invite Holy Spirit into those areas. Ask Him to guide you and give you the wisdom to navigate your journey.

When we listen for His voice and follow His guidance, we align ourselves with His purpose and direction. This doesn’t mean life will be free of challenges, but it does mean we’ll have the assurance that we are on the right path. That, to me, is the true meaning of success, fulfillment, and peace.

Consider this. In a world that often emphasizes conformity, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others. We see someone else’s success, talents, and gifts and wonder if we measure up. But God’s Word reminds us that each of us is uniquely designed with specific gifts for a unique purpose.You are wonderfully weird, and that it’s important you lean into that aspect of how you were created. Specifically the portion of the definition that means unusual.1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (MSG) says, “God’s various gifts are handed out everywhere; but they all originate in God’s Spirit. God’s various ministries are carried out everywhere; but they all originate in God’s Spirit. God’s various expressions of power are in action everywhere; but God Himself is behind it all.”So what are your various gifts that God handed out to you? What various expressions of Kingdom power and action are you personally responsible for? The various expressions that are carried out, when we are centered in Christ, and hear His voice, all originate in His Spirit.We are all different– not by accident– but by design. Our unique gifts are intentionally given by God, and they are meant to be used in a way that only we can fulfill.When we compare ourselves to others, we risk losing sight of our own purpose. Trying to mimic someone else’s gifts not only diminishes our own but also leaves our unique contributions undone. It’s like a piece of a puzzle trying to fit where it doesn’t belong; the picture remains incomplete.Reflect on this: God has equipped you with specific gifts for a reason. Your talents, passions, and abilities (especially if they seem rare, unique, and unprecedented in the Kingdom) are tailored to the work He has prepared for you.

My daughter just returned from an incredible trip where she made amazing memories and saw incredible sights. Upon her return, she presented me with a few gifts she brought back from her travels. One of the treasures was a clay jar. This clay jar held great significance because of what it was and where it was from, but that is not what I want to bring to your attention today. Today, I want you think of it for what it is. A jar made of clay. As I held it in my hand and looked at it, I remembered the words of Yahweh God, our Creator, in the book of Jeremiah.

“Then the word of the LORD came to me: “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?” says the LORD. “Look carefully, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel.” Jeremiah 18:5-6

Clay represents renewal and a continual ability to change and be changed because of its pliability, and has infinite capabilities and possibilities to be used, renewed, changed, stretched, molded, transformed, and transfigured again and again. Yahweh God, in His magnificence knows exactly what is necessary to mold and shape us, how long we need to stay on the wheel, and how much pressured to apply.

When we submit ourselves into His hands, is there anything He cannot do with us? Can He not mold and fashion us, or change us from the inside out? Can He change us down to a cellular level or reshape and create us into His image and likeness? Of course He can, and He can do it better, by His hand than we could ever dream of doing by our own hand.

As I continue to consider during the series that is being taught- WonderFULLY MadE I recognize and know in the deepest places that we ARE FEARFULLY and WONDERFULLY made for this day. There is constant change, growth, and transformation happening in those who submit themselves to His hand and are willing to be molded and transformed again and again. We are continually being made new.

“But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” Isaiah 64:8

Galatians 5:13“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

As Mrs. Kim taught us this past Sunday, when we are in Christ (truly in Him), we transform from an “I need” state into an “I am” state. How many believers are walking around today with their hand out asking Yahweh for what they need. All the while, He wants us positioned in Christ, so that we can begin to be the supply of Heaven to those around us. You don’t want to be a drain on resources. You want to be the resource! Start your day by embracing the change and transformation Yahweh has brought into your life. It may be painful, but this process will eventually lead to complete liberation. After the process is finished, you can begin to pour out of the supply that is within you. Think of the change that can be brought about by all of us functioning fully in Christ and serving one another out of our overflow.

“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.” Psalm‬ ‭139‬:‭14‬-‭16‬ ‭ESV‬‬

"As you go, step by step I will open up the way before you." Proverbs 4:12Yahweh is so faithful! There is a path designed just for you and it isnot revealed all at once, but step by step. If you could see all theways that Yahweh is going to work it out on your behalf and the thingsyou would be walking out, it would be too much to handle. But withevery "YES" you give to the Father, He will reveal the next step. Haveyou heard his voice recently? It does not have to be audible (but itcan be). If you are waiting to hear what the next step is, I encourageyou to pay attention to your gates. What are you listening to? Whatare you watching? What are you speaking? Yahweh is ever present andlongs to commune with YOU! Open your gates to HIM and allow His nextstep to be revealed to you! I am excited for what you will hear andsee! To The King! Have an amazing day!

1 Corinthians 12:14-15 (ESV) 14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body.

When Yahweh created His church, he compared it to a human body. In 1 Corinthians 12, He illustrates how the body (church) is made of many parts (people), but more importantly, every part is valuable and needed. Regardless of what the body's individual part's function is, its role is essential for the body to be productive and alive.

Too often, believers compare their roles, their titles, their anointings, or functions as to their success or lack thereof within the church or in their relationship with Yahweh. People consider those who are in the front or hold specific positions to be more successful, to be more holy, or to be more valuable. They do not consider that they were WONDERFULLY MADE with great purpose and anointing. Their call is different but just as important. You may not always see the feet of a person, but they are just as indispensable as the hands that you see functioning in front of you all the time.

So, as you start your day, consider your own life. How do you view yourself? Do you consider yourself lacking or not as valued as someone else? Do you believe your purpose is just as important to Yahweh as anyone else? Know this: you are unique, you have a divine purpose, and you play an intricate part in His body! Always know and remember that you are an invaluable part!

Ephesians 2:10 - For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.As I was driving around this week, my attention was drawn to the bumper stickers of the drivers around me. I thought about how the person hadto make the decision to place the sticker on their transportation and what that meant. They are telling everyone around them that they agree with the message, they receive the message and at the very least they liked the message. This sparked another question within me, how do I demonstrate that I am created and seated in Christ? I do not have towalk around carrying a sign or a sticker on my forehead, but the truth that I am "In Christ" should be evident to those around me. People are looking, they are watching. The drivers had no idea who I was or that I was reading their bumper sticker, but it made an impression on me and it told me something about who they are.As you begin today, I encourage you to be intentional with your "seat" and how you presenting it tothose around you. The Earth needs your portion! Go release and have the best day! I believe in you!

About a month ago, Holy Spirit showed me mantles all over the ground around my feet. I was standing in the dirt we are about to build on.

The definition of a Mantle is: a loose sleeveless cloak or shawl, an important role or responsibility that passes from one person to another, to clothe in or as if in a mantle; to envelop

So, I’m standing on the ground that we are about to build on and all around me are these mantles. He told me these mantles are for us to pick up, put on, and put to work. To build the Kingdom.

You may be thinking, “How can I do anything else?”

“I’m already walking in my purpose.”

“I’m living my dreams, blessed and highly favored!”

“I can’t add anymore to my plate.”

When He showed me these mantles, He told me they would not be added weight on our shoulders. He is the designer, masterfully creating one mantle out of many.

Your purpose is bigger than what you know about it and bigger than you already are in this moment right now. There are mantles that you need to pick up to become fully you!

Then they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, Come up here…. Revelation 11:12 NIV

Today I bring a reminder- come up, ascend! I was reminded of this verse this week. While on vacation I am at a hotel that, to better serve their guests, has a walkway bridgefrom the hotel to the beach. It enables you to avoid crossing a very busy road that is always full of traffic using the bridge at the second story level on the hotel side andleads to an elevator that lowers you down to the sidewalk on the beach side. At the end of the walkway on the beachside is an elevator that takes you up and down from the walkway to the sidewalk and safely to the beach below. It is a daily, sometimes multiple times a day, ascension and descension.

This access is available to those with a key. You must be a guest of the hotel and use your room key to access the elevator. Using the elevator and bridge allows you to avoid the dangerous road crossing below, as well as gives immediate access to beneficial areas on each side, both at the hotel and the beach while avoiding chaotic and busy areas such as the bustling hotel lobby, and public entry accessible to everyone arriving.

By the Spirit, we always have a choice. We can take the ascended approach to our destination by aligning with the Father in all areas- body, soul, and Spirit and using the keys that we have been given thus far. We avoid hazards and dangers we may never even know about on the roadway below, and we even breeze past busy lobbies or holding areas and avoid being delayed on the way. We have the ability to access bridges and by-ways, lifts and steps with the keys that have been given, they simply must be used. There is a different sound and frequency coming from the ascended place and even a broader perspective of what we see and what we hear. Choose the ascended approach today, use the keys, and Come Up Here.

Ephesians 4:24“And to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”

When you look around the world today, it quickly becomes apparent that so many people are struggling with their identity. And unfortunately, those who are the most confused about their identity, seem to be the loudest to everyone around them about who they think they are. We all have the spirit of Yahweh living inside of us. So how do people cover up His spirit and let their mind and emotions define who they are? They say, “this is how I feel, so it must be who I am.”As sons, it is our responsibility to get to the root of who Yahweh says we are, without letting confusion get in the way. After this, we can help others learn about who they are in Yahweh. A son’s identity is so important. Without it, full purpose cannot be accomplished.I would encourage you to start your day with clarity about who Yahweh says you are. Don’t accept what others have told you if Yahweh has not said it. Once your identity is established, you can begin to help others discover who they are and help them find their purpose.

Colossians 4:5-65 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.This is such a life changing pathway and encouragement Paul hasreleased. You will most likely encounter many people today and beforeyou react, take a moment and consider that maybe they are going throughsomething challenging and they just need a little extra grace. Iencourage you to respond instead of reacting. It is like working out amuscle, it may be challenging at first, but it will get easier overtime. Then, instead of rushing from one thing to the next, take amoment to see and hear if there is something more in the opportunity. Iam sure you are busy and have a lot on your list, but if Yahweh has theanswer for the thing you have been waiting on in the middle of themoment that "seems" so random, don't you want to be aware and availableto receive it? YES! I know YOU DO!Paul is giving us another great key in verse six. When you arecommunicating with people, be open, really listen and you will know howto respond to each one. Sometimes it is a hug, a word or silence. Theanswer will most likely be different for each conversation, so stayawake and allow Holy Spirit to minister through you as you navigate yourday! The assignment is to be available, genuine and patient. Yahwehtrusts you! Have an amazing day!

“And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized;” Acts 9:18

This verse is part of the account of the Apostle Paul. Paul, even before his conversion, was a man of higher education. He was intelligent and educated in the Hebrew teachings of the First Testament. His “old self” was a persecutor of believers, even unto death. He hated Christians (followers of Christ) and approved of imprisoning and killing believers who belonged to the Way (those who believe that Christ was the son of God,and died and was resurrected.)

On the Road to Damascus, he was forever changed. Blinded for three days by a sudden bright and radiant light, it was a face to face encounter with Christ, and then he could see absolutely nothing.

But God.

He was shown the awesome and mighty power of Yahshua the Christ whom he persecuted, and then was shown the glorious grace and miraculous power of healing and change. The Father in His unwavering love for Paul sent a man, Ananias, to assist in helping Paul so that he could begin a journey that he was created for and was the Father’s intent from the beginning. Ananias put his hands on Paul, and the scales fell from his eyes. They were scales that had clouded his vision, warped his thoughts, and skewed his discernment. He could neither judge accurately, nor measure accordingly.

But God.

When the Father does a thing, He does it completely, leaving nothing undone. Paul’s reputation preceded him. Even Ananias was afraid to go to him for fear of what he may do. Paul was feared and rightfully so. He was known for his deeds. No one, but Yahweh God, could have brought such a complete turn-around. The Father not only changed his perspectives but changed him down to his very DNA and it was so abrupt, and complete, and miraculous that it shocked even those who did not know him, and it was his very testimony that played a part in the spread of the gospel. The trajectory of Paul’s life was forever changed and helped grow the kingdom exponentially. I encourage you to read Acts 8-9 today to see who Paul was and how he was not only changed but miraculously and fully transformed.

Wherever you are, and whatever you are doing today allow the Father to do His work in you, whatever it may be. Allow Him to touch your eyes, your ears, your heart and let the scales fall away…. And then rise. Allow Him to work in you unto completion and transform you, renew you, redeem you. His timing is perfect, and He is bringing you to a place of accuracy, truth, and purpose that will advance the Kingdom and bring glory to His name.

Proverbs 16:3Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.I greet you on this day that was created FOR you! Have you ever jumpedhead first into an idea without considering if it is what Yahweh wouldhave you do? I am sure we all can relate to that at one time or anotherin our lives. The consequences of acting before considering andcommitting the work to Yahweh are often the opposite of what we expectedor desired in our hearts. In this scripture we are encouraged to committhe work to Yahweh and it will be done. That does not remove theresponsibility of action on our part, but it does promise that if Yahwehis in it, the outcome will be good! As your feet hit the ground runningtoday, commit it to Yahweh and then take note how the moments unfold.He is a GOOD and FAITHFUL Father who is looking for us to co-labor withHim to establish the Kingdom! Have an amazing day!

1st Corinthians 2:14“The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”

Steve taught us this past Sunday that we are to be led by truth and not emotion. Emotions lie and do not show us the truth in situations. I work at a place where I can honestly say that people are almost exclusively ruled and led by their emotions. If things are good, they are happy and in a good mood. If things are bad, they become angry and bitter. Admittedly, there have even been times where I myself have been caught up in the good and bad emotions of the day. We are human after all, and our soul (which houses our emotions) is very active all the time. Yahweh has grace for us, and He gave us emotion to guide us to the truth, not to rule over our decision making. Someone who operates 100% out of emotion cannot discern the things of the Spirit of God. Like the above passage states, they are “folly” to him. By the way, usually when you decide to put your complete focus on the truth, everything around you will test your resolve to see how you will respond. I’m serious.. It will most likely seem like there is a full moon, and people and circumstances will come at you from every direction. Take heart and know that Yahweh is with you. He will lead you to the truth no matter what it looks like. Start your day with truth and keep those emotions out of your decisions.

Elisha said to her, “What should I do for you? Tell me: what do you have in the house?” She said, “Your servant has nothing in the house, except a pot of oil.” 2 Kings 4:2

In this miracle, Elisha is asked for help by a widow. Her husband was faithful to Yahweh, but a debt collector is set to enslave her children to pay outstanding debts. It's an interesting and beautiful story, where the woman first knows who to ask for help. Elisha's response is to ask what she has to work with, and she says nothing but a pot of oil. He tells her to borrow many empty containers from her neighbors and fill them with the oil. She fills them all up, until there are no containers left, and after that the oil stops flowing. She is able to sell the oil and live well, keeping her children safe.

When you turn to Yahweh for help, know that in your heart of hearts, in the deepest depths, there is oil. It may be faith, hope, belief, grace, or strength of another kind. Whatever it is, Yahweh can work with it. You may have thought it insufficient, but He values it. Pour it out in abundance to Him, and it will be a mark of healing and redemption for many. Pour from that place until you have run out of places, and then may you find that it has made a place of prosperity. What you are made of is worthy, precious, and life-giving. May others then draw from you toward their own blessing, and you find yourself with an overflowing cup. A shared miracle. Be humble, searching, and pure, and pour out today.

I am Yahweh, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, your King. Yahweh, who makes a way in the sea, and a path in the mighty waters.
Isaiah 43: 15-16

I was thinking about the sea. It's an interesting word to explore, and if you just listen to the sound of it, it's like a letter. It's the "middle C," the center, the foundational note in a keyboard. It's like the number 0 with positives and negatives on either side. It's the big ocean, and it's sight to the eyes, and I imagine it can mean so many other things. So whatever your spirit leads you to "see" in it, see that Yahweh makes a way within it.

Sometimes people use the phrase "lost at sea," to mean that they feel like they're in the middle of big waters with no land in sight. Take encouragement in verses like these. First, He reminds us of His credentials: He is I Am, Holy, creative, and sovereign. And that big, amazing God, makes a way for you in the sea, and whether the waves or high and you feel tossed around in their strength, or if it feels like all has gone quiet and you have no sense of where to go, He makes a way. He loves you.

So today, I pray you find that way in the middle of the storm or the stillness. I pray you find that next step, next breath, and next motivation in the path of your life. Be encouraged that The Lord of all things has carved out something just for you. He cares about you, and He'll be the one you'll know to thank best when you look back on the journey.

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18

We are in the days of graduation! During the month of May, and into June, people all over the country are graduating. High school, college, tech schools, and even VPK, kindergarten, or maybe from grade school to middle, or middle to high school. These are all worthy of celebrating, and each one is an awesome accomplishment in their own right.

Whenever this season comes along, I think of this verse, and I am reminded that we have the opportunity to ‘graduate’ continually from ‘one degree of glory to the another’. This is the Father’s intention for each of us. When we go from glory to glory, we are bringing Him glory- again and again. Graduations are a natural manifestation of what we do by the Spirit daily!

The Cambridge Dictionary says the word transform means a complete change in the appearance or character of something or someone, especially so the thing or person is improved. In Greek the word for transform is metamorphoo, and it means to ‘change after being with’. It is the root for our English word metamorphosis.

When we behold HIS glory we ARE transformed into the SAME image, from one degree of glory to the next. We are transformed after beholding the glory of Yahweh. It is not a one-time occurrence, but it happens again and again. We are renewed, improved, changed in appearance and character, and every change or transformation is better than the previous as we become, and look like Him more and more.

Today, I want you to remember that we are spirit beings wrapped in flesh sent into this earth from heavenly places to continually be renewed and transformed, not yearly, seasonally, or even just daily. You may be transformed hourly, even by the minute, if that is what He determines is necessary for you to walk from glory to glory to glory, from one degree to the next. It is not just a transformation of the mind, or the body but it is a complete, full, all-encompassing transformation into the ‘same image’ as our Father, inside and out.

John 3:8 “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

Something that was said this past Sunday stood out to me. Steve was talking about how Yahweh created his sons and daughters to be a wonder, awe inspiring, and even terrifying, yet many of which are “barely a breeze.” This means that there are those that are sent to earth with enormous potential but don’t ever live up to it. They barely affect the world around them or change the atmosphere.We also learned that we come into this world on time and on purpose. We are not accidents, and this knowledge frees us to accomplish what we were sent here to do. There are no “do overs.” We cannot tell Yahweh that this is not our time, and that we would like to do it a different way some other time. You get one chance, and you have the full support of the Father to live out your life with purpose.So, start your day and be the wind you were created to be. Don’t be the little breeze that has no effect on what it touches. Rather, embrace the fact that Yahweh has placed you on this earth in His perfect timing to change it. He created you to disrupt and alter environments. When you walk into a room, you should shift the very culture of that room and not conform to it. Let’s change the earth!

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:8

I recently heard that attention is one of our greatest resources, and it immediately resonated with me. We can think of ourselves as resources in so many ways, but surely one of these that impacts both self and others is how we use our attention. Take stock of yourself and consider what your pattern of thoughts are and what the habits are of your day. Who and what is getting your attention? I don’t ask from a seat of judgment, but in hopes of prompting all of us to note how our attention is used.

What do you dwell on? Where is not enough attention going? How about too much? What relationships deserve more, or less, of your attention? Is Yahweh in your thoughts?

You are a worthy creation, and you have the capacity for brilliance. Today is a good day to take a closer look and give attention to your attention. Today, I will look at my phone less. Today, I will attend to areas of my life that merit more care. Today, I’ll pull from the reservoir within me to be more present, more thoughtful, and more like Christ. Please join me!

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (ESV) 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Have you ever been in a place where you did not feel that you measured up? Or a situation that was too much and became overwhelming? I believe most people, if not all, have one time or another faced moments where they felt life was just too much. It could be an illness, a traumatic event, a relationship that deteriorated, failure in a new venture, addiction, or just poor choices that led to poor outcomes. This heads toward sleepless nights, irritability, worry, unrest, and overall uneasiness. To find relief, too often individuals try to fix the issue themselves, ignore it, or succumb to the difficulty and give up.But Paul in 2 Corinthians makes a powerful statement: “When I am weak, then I am strong!” Is Paul focusing on being feeble or frail? No, he was identifying that, as a man, he was limited. The ability he had in himself was imperfect and inadequate, and that is the weakness. What he needed was Yahweh to be his strength, not his own capabilities. Paul recognized he could not rely on the “Adam nature” but on the nature of Yahweh.

Psalms 73:26 (ESV) 26 My flesh and my heart may fail,but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

So, as you start your day, consider where you draw your strength, your identity, and your purpose. The answer is in Yahweh. He will be your strength, He will shape who you are, and He will give you a purpose and place greater than you can imagine. Trust not in your own understanding but have faith in Him. For you are STRONG!

Several months ago, I purchased a drip coffeemaker. I was so excited, and it makes awesome coffee. Until it didn’t.

Last week, I brewed a pot of coffee, except this specific morningdid not go as usual. The coffee was brewing, but not dripping into the carafe below. After a few feeble attempts of trying to get it to function properly, I had to leave the house, and did not have time to solve the issue. When I returned, I tried again. The waterwas stuck in the filter where you place the coffee grounds. It was a mess, and the more I tried to fix it the more of a mess I made.

Thinking my coffeemaker was broken I made one more attempt. As I carried the entire coffeemaker to the sink, coffee spilled out everywhere, I was wondering who designed this thing and what were they thinking. I removed the coffee grounds filter and could see that in the process the water and grounds hadoverflowed the filter and coffee grounds were now clogging the opening where the brewed coffee would drip through and into the carafe. Finally, I think the problem is solved! Not quite.

While I am performing Olympic gymnastic quality endeavorstrying to clean this appliance in my sink (unsuccessfully) and getting very frustrated as I continue to make a mess, I see something I had never noticed, a tab. I look and give the tab a pull. The whole basket that is clogged, lifts out easily. What is now in my hand, I can easily hold under the running water and rinse it clean and remove all the grounds that were clogging up the opening. What was taking me hours took moments with no mess, the clean-up was quick and easy, and the whole coffeemaker was working right as rain.

My coffeemaker was not broken, nor was it poorly designed, and I didn’t even need to put my entire coffeemaker in the sink. It needed a good cleaning, done the right way. The problem was I did not know how to 1. recognize the issue, and 2. properly clean my coffeemaker. In this moment, I was reminded of the words spoken by another in house, “When you know better, do better.” So, I did. Now I know, if this happens again, what to do and how to do it.

My encouragement today is do not become discouraged or frustrated. Walk, and when you know a better way to walk, do so. This may easily have been passed off as a silly moment of frustration unless I was seeking and my eyes were open by the Spirit. The moment may have seemed mundane and inconvenient to most but to me, the lesson learned here can be applied again and again to mature and grow.

Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser. Teach the righteous, and they will learn even more. Proverbs 9:9

Consider this: Life is full of uncertainties. We often find ourselves standing at crossroads of all shapes and sizes, unsure of which path to take. In these moments, the call to trust Yahweh God becomes paramount, even when we don't know what lies ahead. Especially when we don’t know what lies ahead.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG) reads: “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track.”

Trusting God means believing that He knows what is best for us, even when we can’t see the full picture. It means letting go of our need to control every detail and allowing Him to guide us. This kind of trust is not passive; it’s active and intentional. It’s choosing to believe that God’s plan is greater than anything we could ever imagine.

Consider the story of Abraham, who was called to leave his home and go to a land that God would show him. He didn’t have all the details, but he trusted God’s promise. This kind of radical trust is what we are called to as well.

Remember: every great story of faith begins with a step into the unknown, guided by trust in God. When you feel uncertain or anxious about the future, remember that God is already there. He sees the end from the beginning and is working all things for your good.

Take time today to surrender your fears and uncertainties to Yahweh God. Trust that His plan for your life is perfect and that He will lead you each step of the way. Embrace the unknown with confidence, knowing that your steps are directed by a loving and faithful God.

Consider this: In today’s world, love often feels temporary, conditional, and dependent on our achievements or status. It’s transformative to realize that Yahweh God's love is different. It's unchanging, unwavering, and unconditional.

Romans 8:38-39 (MSG) beautifully captures this truth: “I’m absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God’s love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.”

God’s love is the ultimate love. It’s a love that doesn’t falter, a love that holds you close— no matter where you are or what you’ve done.

Imagine the most profound, enduring relationship you can. Now, multiply that by infinity, and you begin to scratch the surface of God’s love for you. It’s not based on your performance. It’s not earned by good deeds or forfeited by mistakes. It’s a love that existed before you were born and will continue long after you’re gone.

We live in a culture that often tells us we need to be more, do more, achieve more to be worthy of love and acceptance. But God’s message is refreshingly simple and countercultural: You are loved just as you are.

The Creator of the universe loves you personally and intimately. This is not a distant, abstract love but a close, tangible reality. When you internalize this truth, it changes everything. Your worth is not in what you do but in who you are—a beloved child of God.

Take a moment today to rest in this truth. Let it sink deep into your heart. No matter what you face, no matter the challenges or failures, you are loved by God. This love is your foundation, your constant, your anchor. Embrace it fully and let it transform your life.

Consider this. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often lose sight of the bigger picture. We get caught up in our routines, our struggles, and our pursuit of success. But amidst all this noise, it's crucial to remember a profound truth: **you are fearfully and wonderfully made**.

Psalm 139:13-14 (MSG) says, “Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb. I thank you, High God—You’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation!”

Be reminded that your existence is intentional. You are not an accident; you are a masterpiece crafted with purpose and precision.

Each of us has a distinct path designed by Yahweh God. Our strengths, talents, preferences and even our challenges and weaknesses are intricately woven into the fabric of who we are. The same way a company thrives when it operates from a place of clarity about its mission, we thrive when we align with the purpose God has set for us.

Reflect on this: the same God who created the vast universe took the time to design every part of you. That means your life is meant to reflect His glory in a unique way. You have a specific role that only you can fulfill.

When you embrace this truth, you start living with intentionality. Your decisions, relationships, and efforts align with a greater purpose. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being authentic and stepping into the destiny that’s uniquely yours.

Take time today to ask yourself, “Why am I really here?” Let Psalm 139 inspire you to see yourself as God sees you. Fearfully, wonderfully made, with a destiny that only you can achieve. Trust in this divine design and walk boldly in your unique purpose.

One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.
Romans 14:5

Yahweh is personal to all of us. The earth is personal to Him, and every part of creation matters to Him. While we're all headed in the same direction, our individual journeys require something special between Him and each of us.

Build confidence in that individuality without ignoring the principles of His character. Know that what He's showing you about Himself is just as important as what the person you admire has come to know. Know that the details of your life are as critical as any one else's ever could be. Believe that what you find joyful about life is something that He loves too. Be careful not to compare your anointing to another, because Yahweh has made room for it all.

Measure what's important on how Yahweh has shown it to you. Take counsel, ask Him, and be fully convinced for yourself how your steps honor Him. Be just exactly who He is showing you to be today.

I recently saw a video where adults were asked what they'd change about themselves if they could, and each person had some flaw they wanted to correct. Then it showed children being asked, and their responses were things like having shark's teeth or extra arms, or simply nothing at all. They knew in their own hearts that they were made just right, so let's take the example of children today, and walk in confidence.

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Revelation 1:8

Wherever you are today, Yahweh is there. I know we hear this all the time, but really take in this powerful verse. He is the beginning, the end, and everything in between. He is Sovereign, over all, and also within it. What a comfort and strength it is to know that our God is merciful, generous, and just, and He is with you, no matter what.

While we live moving forward in our days, I know it gives me confidence that I won't be outside of His presence. He will rejoice with me, and He will hold me. He'll be there when I'm laughing around the table, and when I sleep at night.

There was a moment this week that put me beyond my skills in the natural. By the spirit, Yahweh provided. What seemed one ordinary moment quickly turned into a pivotal one that I doubt I'll ever forget. I'm so thankful I didn't need to invoke something. I'm so glad it didn't require me to catch Him up later in my evening prayers, but that in my life, in that second, there was my God.

How incredible to know that in my time of need, He was also there for you. Bless Him today with your thankfulness. Worship Him for His constancy. Thank you, Yahweh, for spending your everlastingness with us.

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.
Proverbs 18:15

I had an interesting conversation at work this week about knowledge. One person said that there is a difference between access to knowledge and knowledge itself, and some people confuse the two. An example could be that with access to so much information online, some think that being able to search out an answer is the same as knowing it. In fact, they may never learn or retain any number of things, because the internet always has what they might look for. I think of how many phone numbers I used to have memorized, and now my phone stores them so easily that most new phone numbers I never even attempt to memorize.

So I wonder... are there areas of spirituality where we might not have really internalized what Yahweh has tried to teach us? Are there places it's just so easy to get an answer that we don't truly learn foundational things, or what's built upon that foundation?

Let us endeavor to be discerning people. Let's access, or seek out, knowledge, and once we hold it, keep it dear. Today speak over your eyes, ears, and every sense, that whatever you access of the kingdom, that it will be part of you. Be the good soil today, and every day, that when you hear what is good, noble, and true, you plant in your heart. Then, in time, you will be the source of wisdom for another, and you will have a deep well to draw upon for every season of life.

Psalms 27:14 (NKJV) 14 Wait on the LORD;Be of good courage,And He shall strengthen your heart;Wait, I say, on the LORD!

Have you ever been asked to wait on something? If you take a moment and really consider your life, we are asked all the time to wait. Asked to wait on a job or promotion, to wait in line at the grocery store, to wait in traffic, to wait at the DMV, to wait on a loan decision, to wait on the medical report, and the list goes on. It is safe to say that waiting is a part of life.How do you respond in the middle of your “wait?” Are you impatient, frustrated, or irritated? Do you try to take a shortcut or bypass the “wait?” When it comes to the Kingdom of God, waiting is part of the process of growth and maturity. It develops faith and trust in Yahweh, but also grace, patience, and endurance in life. As a son of Yahweh, we are His reflection, and we are used to expand His Kingdom. There are no shortcuts with Him!We read “wait on the Lord” and consider that the wait is for some magnificent spiritual event to occur, but often, waiting on the Lord is simply creating grace and patience in you as you stand in a long line. The Father uses those everyday moments in life to transform us. The wait is not meant to harm you, but to work in you as you wait on the Lord.So, as you start your day, consider how you approach those waiting moments in life. Remember, waiting on the Lord comes in many different forms and may be something unexpected. Those occurrences serve a purpose and will either build up or remove; either way, if received properly, you will be strengthened and prepared for your purpose.

Proverbs 31:28“Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her..”

This past Sunday, we were able to gather and honor all of the mothers in our house. We also learned that being a mother doesn’t only mean having children, but also possessing the spirit of a mother (even if no biological children are present). I want to continue that honor with today’s post by blessing the mothers of the Rock of Central Florida. When I look back at my 20 plus years in this house, there have been so many with the heart of a mother, who have influenced my life and imparted wisdom to me. Whether they were words of encouragement or even a necessary rebuke, their words and actions have affected me deeply. Start your day by honoring the mothers Yahweh has placed in your life. Call them blessed and be grateful for their wisdom and knowledge. It is truly a privilege that Yahweh has placed them in our lives!

Today I come with encouragement and exhortation. Recently I watched a documentary about the story of the exodus when the Israelites are leaving Egypt. I’ve always loved this story and the faithfulness of our Father in it.

And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day, and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place before the people. Exodus 13:21-22

In their journey, Yahweh made sure there was a physical manifestation for them to see, hear, on their journey. He was very present, but in His faithfulness and grace His provision manifested in the natural. In the day it was a pillar of cloud to go before them, and in the night, it was a pillar of fire. Before the thousands of men, women, and children, this pillar of cloud or fire was before their eyes, undeniable and unquestionable. It was a constant, that He is ever faithful because that is the kind of God we serve.

Can you imagine the sound of the cloud moving before them? They had but to keep their eyes forward as it cleared the way and removed any obstacles in their path. Then, He didn’t leave them in the night to fend for themselves. The pillar of fire burned bright, showing the way. Even though this nation traveled through a wilderness that was hot and dry; the desert gets cold at night. Yahweh God had provision for even this because when He does a thing, it is complete with nothing lacking. He knows what is necessary, needed, and provides even more than that! He provided not only fire to light the way before them so that they could continue to move forward whether it be in day or night, but I imagine the heat that would come off this pillar providing warmth, and the brightness of His glory keeping at bay what may have come to harm in the night.

When Yahweh calls you, He does the thing! He has already thought of everything. He knows the cloud you need, or the fire required. He knows what is ahead, and what is around the corner. He knows the exact path to bring us so that His glory may be revealed in the earth through us! When our trust is in Him we have but to keep our eyes forward and on Him, and move according to His word. This doesn’t mean that we as sons have no responsibility, but rather we move according to His word- that’s our part. Remember that you serve a mighty God and He has exactly what you need in every leg of your journey.

Psalm 143:10“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!”

A simple word to start your day with. As Steve taught this past Sunday, obedience does NOT require our understanding. The promise that we have, according to the above passage, is that Yahweh will lead us on level ground. This means, He will always be faithful to put us in the right spot (when we do His will). We don’t have to worry about the path, because it has been made straight before us. Even if we think there is another way, Yahweh asks us to trust Him and obey. If we truly love Him, we will trust Him, whether it makes sense or not. Focus on your obedience this week, and make sure you are not trying to figure out God’s command before you do it. He’s got you!

1 Corinthians 15:33 (ESV) 33 Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.”

Have you ever heard that you become like the people you hang out with? Is it safe to say that people are deeply influenced by the actions and words of their close circle of friends and family? We have all witnessed or experienced it sometime in our lives. The young person who hangs out with the “wrong crowd” at school, and before you know it, they are making the same poor decisions. Or maybe you had a person you trusted and believed had your best interests in mind but led you astray to poor choices.Yahweh recognizes the impact others can have on a person. He created us as relational beings, and thus we draw from those we allow into our circle. I personally witnessed this firsthand. I remember playing high school football as a young man and becoming close friends with several of my teammates. As I look back, I can identify their influence on me that led to my makinga variety of choices. Some good and some bad. The point is, Yahweh knows the potential powers others may have in a person. So, He gives instructions on who we allow into our circle and build trust with. Are you drawing from a “well” of bad company?So, as you start the day, consider your circle of influence. Who do you give your ear to? From which “well” do you draw from? Do not freely give your ear to a person just because of their position, status, or title; give your ear to the Holy Spirit. Allow Him to lead you and point to those who He wants to be in your circle.

Too often we try to arrive at a specific destination without taking all the necessary steps. Yahweh has a plan that when followed will always lead to fulfillment.

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17

At The Rock we are family. We work together, play together, walk together, love, laugh, (sometimes) cry together, and do life together. Many have said this before, but today I join my voice to those who have spoken the following life-giving revelation.

We need each other.

Recently, I was personally saw and experienced this, and it was beautiful, and I recognized it immediately. I was given the chance to sow into another, and it was my joy and delight to do so. In the process of sowing, I met with the individual I was helping. As is the case with those who walk with the Father in relationship, the atmosphere shifted, and our conversation turned to things of the Kingdom. As we talked, this individual began to speak and share what the Father was speaking to them in their Day. Little did they know, they were speaking to ME and touching a deep place within me. It was a divine appointment, a Holy Ghost set up, and I recognized the moment, bought it up and sold it not. It was an infusion of strength, and an avenue of life that entered my ear gates, engaged my spirit man, and ministered to my soul... and that was not even the intent of us getting together!

Would this engagement have happened had I not been positioned to be a strength to this person in the form of being a help and sowing? Would they have shared words of life with me from their testimony, and ministered to me just by being who they were created to be? I daresay not. Was it sons demonstrating the Kingdom or a battle buddy being properly positioned? Absolutely. It is righteous joining through relationship with the Father that allows this type of exchange and to see the value in it, and I am one who is thankful and grateful that it is available to us.

I would never have known this person would have a key that I needed on that day. I would not have asked or even known to seek. Because we are people in relationship with the Father and filled with Holy Ghost, and because we are a people whose thoughts are stayed on Him and we move according to His word we are always in His flow. When we come together it is always iron sharpening iron by word and by Spirit.

My reminder today is this: yes, we need one another. It is a joy,and it is life when we come together. It is powerful and it changes the atmosphere when the sons walk together, and life flows in abundance.

John 14:27“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

This title may seem confusing but let me explain. I was thinking recently about how many people we know that are not accomplishing what they were created to do, simply because they are too busy battling their own minds. What I mean is there are people who let fear and anxiety take over every aspect of their life, and they end up making it their entire focus. It becomes a full time job, and nothing else can get done.Imagine how much more we could accomplish as a people if all of us walked in complete freedom. Imagine our complete focus being on God’s purpose for our life. How much isn’t getting done, because we are too busy jumping over mental hurdles of fear and self doubt? This is not a rebuke but instead an encouragement to you!Start your day by asking God to give you a clear mind. Don’t let 1,000 tiny battles stop you from doing what He created you to do. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. This is not a sign of weakness but strength. You are not alone, and great is the power that will come from sons who are completely free and who have their face set toward Yahweh, ready and willing to fulfill their purpose.

Mark 10:18 (ESV) 18 And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone.Psalms 107:1 (ESV) Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!

Throughout scripture, Yahweh is described as good. But what does “good” mean to you? Does it mean that He gives you what you want, fixes your problems, or removes your struggle? Too often, people connect the goodness of God to how their lives are unfolding. If things are bad, then God must be bad or disinterested. But when life goes well and smoothly, then God is good and is very involved.Have you ever heard a person announce when they get a good parking spot that God is good and has given them favor? So, in all the other times when they get a bad parking spot, is God bad? Do they still announce the goodness of God and his favor, even if the result or reward is not what one expects? The point is that regardless of the situation, the result, the struggle, or the outcome, Yahweh is good.Consider when Joseph was sold by his brothers into slavery and eventually ended up in prison. I would imagine there were times when he did not feel God was good to him. But truth be told, the goodness of God is not based on our circumstances or outcomes but on Who Yahweh is. He IS good. So, as you start your day, let this be a reminder that Yahweh is good and his goodness toward you is always right. It may not feel like it or seem like it, but He works out all things for your good according to His plans. This understanding will change how you face each day!

Nebuchadnezzar answered and said, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants, who trusted in him, and set aside the king’s command, and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God. Daniel 3:28

The story of these three men, obedient to Yahweh God, is an intense and extreme demonstration of yielding to the Father regardless of circumstance, but ultimately their faith and obedience turned even the heart of a king, and caused him to bless the One true living God. As a reminder, this event took place because of their refusal to worship a golden idol, a false god, an image created by the king. If you read further, it says that when the people heard the horns blow, all peoples, nations, and languages fell to worship the golden image… except Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These men quite literally “yielded up their bodies rather than serve or worship any god except their own…” They yielded their minds, bodies, spirits, thoughts, ideas, and wills unto death and what they “yielded” resulted in abundant life.

There is a key reminder that I think is often overlooked. The yield. Even knowing it could result in physical death, they yielded. They did not yield to the king, nor a golden image, nor the world they were surrounded by. They yielded to the Fatherand His will. They lived because they yielded, they flourished because they yielded, they were given authority (in that day) because they yielded.

When we yield, as Paul taught in Romans, we present ourselves as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to the Father. Again, in Galatians Paul reminds us, it is not we who live, but Christ who lives in us. All that we do is for the glory of Yahweh God, every word, action, deed, thought, and choice. This is yielding. We yield our thoughts, and trade them for His. We yield our bodies to honor Him. When we do, we are not losing or lacking, but it produces and produces abundantly. As we yield there areactually gains and increase, exponential growth, for His glory. The fruit yielded in our lives is far more than anything we could have done on our own and it is authorized by heaven.

I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.John 15:5

Consider this. There once was a man named Manoah. Manoah’s wife was unable to give birth, but Yahweh had other plans. An angel of the Lord visited Manoah's wife, and gave her a word. He said:

“You are infertile and childless, but you will conceive and have a son. 4 Now be careful! Do not drink wine or beer, and do not eat any food that will make you ritually unclean. 5 Look, you will conceive and have a son. You must never cut his hair, for the child will be dedicated to God from birth. He will begin to deliver Israel from the power of the Philistines.” (Judges 3-5, NET)

This child would become the mighty Samson of legend. And being gut level realistic, I have to wonder if she felt like she was unworthy or unfit for this mighty thing to come to pass through her? I mean, her name isn’t even mentioned in the story.

The word was a big one, and affected many others– we’re not only talking about her conceiving a child while being barren, but taking it a step further and saying that the child would be instrumental in delivering Israel from the power of the Philistines.

The bottom line reality is that the word could have died with her right there, slain by her own doubt. But she shared the word with her husband Manoah, and the rest is history.

So I ask you then, What is the angel of the Lord speaking to you? What’s the impossible thing that would be so easy to start convincing yourself is too big to come to pass through you?

What is the thing unique to you that will change the very fabric of history? Whatever it is, we need it, and the time is now.

What is life without the love of God? Are there limits to his love for us?

In Yahweh’s kingdom, accountability is a valuable tenant to equip, empower, and transform His sons. But too often, being held accountable becomes too difficult, and people will avoid it.

Being born-again in Christ does not come with an expiration date.

What has the sacrifice and miracle of the resurrection become?

SON defined.

“We’re not crazy. The visitation of the Lord will always lead us to greater things that require us to have faith.”

A visitation is a time when what has been hoped for suddenly comes upon us. What does a visitation of God look like?

The Kingdom of God is in you and me. We are his temple.

Getting from “does God exist” to “experiencing his existence in you.”

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.(‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬)

Awareness will take care of today, but it'll do nothing for tomorrow.

Why is it Christians don’t struggle with God as our Father but struggle with us being sons and daughters?

Why is it Christians don’t struggle with God as our Father but struggle with us being sons and daughters?

Part of the series The Rise of Sons focusing on the birthright that identifies a son.

Being a son of God is a beautiful privilege and a life transforming journey.

Part of the series The Rise of Sons focusing on the birthright that identifies a son.

Join us for the fifth part of the series The Rise of Sons.

Who among us will accept the responsibility of sonship through our God?

Who among us will accept the responsibility of sonship through our God?

Who among us will accept the responsibility of sonship through our God?

Who among us will accept the responsibility of sonship through our God?

Who among us will accept the responsibility of sonship through our God?

Vanessa Batista expounds on the topic of "Shema" and what that means for us individually and as a whole.

Who among will accept the responsibility of sonship through our God?

Who among us will accept the responsibility of sonship through our God?

Join us as Archie Phillips elaborates on the question, why Canaan?

Our lives can testify of Yahweh’s goodness even when it’s not obvious to us.

It's not if we pray, it's how we pray.

How often have you left God on read? Might not be the best decision.

I love words, what they mean, what they represent. I especially love THIS word. Yahweh God created everything by His word exhaled. His words caused the very creation, the universe to come into being, to exist. Words are POWERFUL. It is a challenge to put in this space all that this particular word represents, it […]

“Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1st Thessalonians 5:23 Many of you reading this can relate to once being in a place where you felt like you were in pieces. During this […]

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

What a glorious gift we have received in grace from Yahweh! As I completed a workshop recently, one of the closing comments spoke to challenges. The speaker said that even when we struggle on the outside, we remain good inside. It would be easy to dismiss this idea to cling to a sinner’s mindset (please listen to Steve Parker’s teachings on being a son vs a sinner), or we can truly choose and practice seeing the good in ourselves and others. We’ve learned about the difference between seeing with Christ’s or Adam’s eyes. Christ’s eyes come with grace, and Adam’s with quick judgment. Today, offer yourself, your spouse, your coworkers, and your children grace. Remember that we are part earth on purpose, and we are going to experience difficulties in any given day. If we falter in any moment, or if we are present for another’s struggle, take care to remember that there is still lots of good inside. Yahweh’s mercies are new every morning!

Yahweh’s love for us isn’t contingent on works. We don’t need to constantly monitor and grade ourselves or others. Instead, receive from Him in His amazing grace. Remember that what Yahweh made, He saw as good from the very beginning. See with His eyes today!

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Recently my 1 year old has only wanted to “worship Yahweh.” She’s not interested in watching tv shows, playing with toys, reading books, or any of her usual activities. She says, “Worship Yahweh, Momma? That would be so fun!” What she’s asking me is to turn on worship music. When I do, she raises her little hands, sings along as best she can, dances, and says over and over, “Thank you, Father!” What I am witnessing is her do what she sees us do. She is only 1, but already knows she is fulfilled through worship more than any other activity.Today I encourage you to worship Yahweh! Be refreshed! Let your soul be revived today! Turn off your tv show, put the book down, don’t worry about what you have on your agenda - worship intentionally! Turn your office into your prayer closet. Turn your kitchen into an altar. Turn your living room into a sanctuary!

“17 no weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD and their vindication from me, declares the LORD.” Isaiah 54:17

Sometimes, as you go about your day, events occur and do not always go as you plan. A flight is delayed, traffic is backed up, or you are just having a bad hair day. Too often, we give credit to the enemy’s weapon or scheme as gaining an upper hand on us when he attacks. Yes, he may be behind whatever is coming at you, but in the end, he cannot fashion anything against you that can succeed. He will never have the upper hand on you unless you let him.Christ has equipped you and has transformed you into being a joint heir of Yahweh. Christ reminds us in John 14 that we will be able to do greater things than He. Yes, the enemy will attack as he comes to steal, kill, and destroy. But in Christ, He gives us life and life more abundantly.So, as you start your day, even when attacks come, do you feel defeated? Or do you recognize that through Christ, we already have the victory. It is a simple choice! As your bad hair day comes, are you going to allow the attack to succeed, or are you going to stand and crush his weapon.

“However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him—” 1 Corinthians 2:9 Revelation that has been hidden for generations is being revealed now. It is producing the best fruit and bringing […]

“My son, pay attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. They are not to escape from your sight; Keep them in the midst of your heart. For they are life to those who find them, And healing to all their body.” Proverbs 4:20-22

Healing is here! Those are exciting words to hear for those who are in need of healing whether it be mind, body, or soul. Healing can come in many forms, many ways and we cannot box the Father in as to how that will happen. It is not coming or on theway, it is here. It is healing parts of who we are, and it is healing the timeline before us, and before us.

It is coming to the very DNA, at a cellular level. That is how deep He is going to bring us to who we were created to be. The spark of Yahweh God Himself is within our DNA which means He is in absolutely every part of who we are from head to toe, muscle to bone, tendon to ligament. If we align with His word that is breathed into us, He will bring about exactly what is needed to bring us to exactly where we need to be. That is healing.

How is it done?

It is done by hearing and obeying, and “paying attention” to the words that are spoken by the Father to us. To hear His word to you, you must do your part. Incline your ear. Incline means to lean willingly or favorably toward. So hear Yahweh’s voice in your time with Him, hear His voice within the voice of thoseyou are joined to. Lean willingly and favorably into His word. Keep His word close to your heart, set your mind on the Father and on heavenly things. Stay focused. Set yourself to receive whether it be physically, mentally, emotionally.

He is bringing life, and healing, and it is a beautiful thing.

Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace [that is, a blessing of well-being and prosperity, the favor of God] to this house.’ Luke 10:5

When I hold my child before bed, I sing lullabies. These are usually little songs I've written to him, full of love. One of them focuses on Peace and goes, "Sleep with Peace tonight as angels surround your bedside. I know she's with you; she'll hear you like the friend that she is. There'll be Peace on your pillow tonight." In this, I see Peace as a being, as a friend that he can talk to and draw from. I am also asking Peace to be present with him.

What does Peace mean to you? Calm? Stillness? A deep steadiness?

When I read this verse, I see that peace is even more. This translation comes from the Amplified version to provide context for Greek or Hebrew words. This says that peace is a blessing of well-being, prosperity, and favor. We also know well that our bodies are the temple of God. We are that house!

While you may be reading this in the morning, like I sing over my son, I sing over you and your house. Peace. May the blessing of Peace be within your house today. May your house be well, prosperous, and full of Yahweh's favor! From your head to your toes! There will be Peace in your day, and Peace on your pillow tonight!

"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you at the appropriate time, casting all your cares on Him, for He cares about you." 1 Peter 5:6-7

When I heard this verse growing up, I limited my definition of "cares" to mean difficulties. The visual was Christ bearing my burdens easily and effortlessly, magically removing everything that was hard for me. When I really consider that as an adult, I realize it's an incomplete picture at best, and an insulting one as worst. Some time ago, Archie Phillips, Sr taught that when Christ says His yoke is easy and burden is light, it means that He will shoulder the weight with you, not that it will just disappear. Instead, it means that He is there to guide, encourage, and help you!

Beyond difficult things, what do you CARE about? Take that which you care for to Him. This could be your goals, relationships, children, work aspirations, the visions of your future, and your hopes for your community. He is not only there to shoulder the things that come with heavy emotion, but He is there to help you navigate the way of the dreamer. He knows the dark and the light. After all, He made them both!

So, cast your cares upon Him, in humbleness. Walk with Him in the seen and the unseen. Seek His counsel, His ear, His eyes, and His voice in your day today. Consider well what You bring Him, and be sure not to forget to bring Him your greatest joys! There is a process unfolding in each of us. He cares about you!

The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.” But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord. Jonah 1:1-3

Considering what Steve taught us recently, I am reminded of Jonah and how he heard a word from Yahweh, and then proceeded to do the exact opposite of what Yahweh told him to do. We know the rest of the story, but it is an important example of how Yahweh often speaks to us in a very simple way. He gives us a simple, clear word, and we go the other direction. Jonah did not like the first word he received and decided to run from it.Eventually, he was obedient, but it took a giant fish swallowing him up in order to get his attention. As we go throughout the week, it is important that we pay attention to Yahweh’s first word. Even if it is not what we want, we need to be obedient and see it through. The outcome will be so much greater than we can imagine.

“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.” Matthew 6:33

I have considered the importance recently of living a God centered life. What does that mean? It means we put Yahweh God at the center of everything, in every area of life. I think, sometimes, believers feel that because they are a “Christian” that it automatically means the Father is at the center of every area of our lives… but is that true?Living a God centered life isn’t hard. Do we considered Him in decisions and ask Him His thoughts on the matter? Do we take time to sit in His counsel? Do the things we do, say, and our character look like Him? When He is at the center our life will bring Him glory. We will talk about Him at the table, He will be seen in our work life, our home life, in our relationships, in our hobbies. Sometimes it is about what we say, but more often than not, it is in our actions, in our character, our behavior, the way we carry ourselves. When He is the center it affects the core of who we are.SEEK. Seek to see His kingdom and righteousness. Not our own. There is a way of doing things that are good to man…. but there is a way of doing things that are good to the Father. There is a way of being right to man…. but there is a way of righteousness in Yahweh God. There is a way of carrying ourselves…. and there is a way of walking, talking, and behaving in the character of our God. Seek to see and to know His ways. As we begin to seek Him relationship begins to build. As we talk with Him and listen to His voice, we begin to have His mind and His thoughts. As we look to Him, we begin to look like Him and so does everything we are involved in.May today be a day of consideration. There is no condemnation, but an opportunity to adjust, shift, and make changes if necessary. Begin to consider Him in not only huge decisions, but daily decisions. Seek Him with all that you are…. and “ALL these things will be given to you.”

Why should we ask God for help when we are perfectly capable of doing it ourselves?

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9

Have you ever asked Yahweh the questions; how, when, or why? All of us have faced a trial or a difficult season; it does not mean you are not faithful or that you are not a child of God. But as we go through life, and it is not going as we had hoped or wanted, the questions of how, when, or why do pop up.Why did my mother have to get sick? When will I get that promotion? How am I going to get through this heartbreak? These are examples of some of the questions you may have asked yourself or God. The situation maybe different, but the essence of the questions remains the same.Isaiah 55:9 is a reminder to us that Yahweh’s plan and purpose is much bigger and greater than ours. With that said, it is written to encourage us in those seasons when we face challenges, feel lost, or have been hurt. When our expectations or wants are not going as we have hoped, we may feel Yahweh is not there.But as you start your day, remember, Yahweh is there!!! He has not forsaken or left you. He loves you and sees you. Today be reminded and encouraged, that as you go through your season, His Ways are greater than yours. He will work it out for your good!

I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I have set my heart on your laws. Psalm 119:30 Today I considered the testimonies of my friends, as well as my own. These are powerful, living moments that encourage, inspire, and teach others. They’re a connection between Heaven and Earth that speak of what Yahweh continues to […]

But when the right time came, God sent His Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. Gal. 4:4 I hope that you took the time to listen again to Sam Shoaff’s message on “Out of Time ”. I’d like to offer some more insight to the “time” reference Sam made about Christ and […]

“Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit.” Matthew 12:33 Jesus is facing a group of Pharisees when He makes this provocative statement – “a tree is known by its fruit.” He was challenging these men about what […]

But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. Matthew 5:44-45 As Christ was […]

“For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 Though you call me names and mock me, I see eternity in you. When you are the loudest in the room.. when you thrive on being obnoxious and disliked, I see eternity […]

“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 This is one of my very favorite verses! I was reminded last week by a dear […]

“You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah.” Psalm 32:7 This week, the phrase “safe place” has come up many times for me. When we feel safe, there is not fear. We can be open, vulnerable, and free to explore. Yahweh is a safe place for each […]

“Pride leads to destruction; humility leads to honor.” Proverbs 18:12 There are quite a few scriptures that could be referenced, but Proverbs 18:12 is concise and to the point. We often talk of honor at The Rock. We are a people that love to give honor, express honor. We speak it, we demonstrate it, and […]

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Heb.13:8 Why would a believer have to change things about themselves constantly, when Christ is the same ALWAYS? It doesn’t sound very fair, does it? Think about the standard we, as believers have chosen to adhere to, then wonder what it would be like if […]

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness.” Matthew 23:27 Recently, we have been talking about the difference between resurrection and restoration. We have learned that the only way something can be truly transformed is […]

But when Jesus heard it he said, “This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” John 11:4 Healing from God comes in many ways, but they all serve to glorify Him!!! The story of Lazarus is another great reminder […]

In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all of the flaming darts of the evil one. Eph. 6:16 Currently in The Living Room at The Rock, specifically at Intersession on Wednesday mornings (6AM), we’ve been discussing “the whole armor of God”. One of the most misunderstood pieces of […]

But exhort one another daily, while it is still called “today”. Heb. 3:13 (KJV) If you look at the name of these daily devotionals, have you ever thought about what time of this 24 hour period starts YOUR day? Technically, the “day” begins and ends at the same time, midnight. Normally, we don’t start our […]

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 Today, I bring encouragement, and I do so with a question. What do you meditate or think on, day and night? Are your desires His desires? Are your thoughts His […]

“Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!” Psalm 95:2 Yahweh desires your worship, but more importantly, He wants the desire of your heart to be to worship Him. Worship of course can take many forms; the raising of hands, clapping, dancing, singing, or […]

He reveals mysteries from the darkness and brings the deep darkness into light. Job 12:22 I recently heard a story about the “streetlight effect.” It tells of a man who knows he lost his keys in the shadows but looks for them under the streetlight, as that is where it’s easiest to see. Sometimes we look […]

“But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.’” 1 Samuel 16:7 This is such a great reminder and lesson […]

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths. Prov. 3:5-6 Trust is such an interesting term for the believer inasmuch that when we think we apply it correctly toward the Father, we generally try to tell Him how […]

Recently in intercession we have turned our attention to the armor of God that each believer should be covered in. This spiritual armor is not about war, but rather is an identifying factor of the ready and prepared son. This past week the ‘belt of truth’ had our attention. “So stand firm and hold your ground, HAVING […]

Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a living person. Genesis 2:7 This week, I did a yoga practice. Breath is often focused on during yoga, and the instructor was guiding us through some deep breathing at one point and asked, “What […]

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:6 Yahweh is always looking at our hearts. He can see straight through any situation, and get right to the very intent of what we are doing. With this being said, it […]

When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich. Luke 18:22-23 Hopefully this passage prompted a […]

“These are the wise sayings of Solomon, David’s son, Israel’s king— Written down so we’ll know how to live well and right, to understand what life means and where it’s going.” Proverbs 1:1-2 I think one of the key things in this scripture that’s overlooked is that someone (we’re pretty sure it was Solomon) took the […]

Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus […]

The sound of joyful shouting and salvation is in the tents of the righteous; The right hand of the Lord performs valiantly. Psalm 118:15 This morning, I walked into my toddler’s room, and he said, “I’m making a sound, Mommy!” My heart and spirit responded to his powerful, happy words. I said, “Yes, you are!” The sounds in the […]

“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Luke 12:6-7 My word of encouragement today is for those who feel left out or forgotten. Perhaps you feel […]

If you find yourself pressed today, or tomorrow, or the next day, I want you to know that you are standing on Holy ground! When you find yourself being pressed it’s an Exodus 3:5 moment,“Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” In other words, reposition yourself. Prepare yourself to receive! The supply […]

Recently at a Rock Mommy Tribe gathering, one of the Mother’s brought a key to share with the group. She said, “When raising your children, it is important to listen to understand not listen to respond.” This really ministered to me. While a response is almost always necessary, it is very easy to listen to respond instead […]

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5 Today is a very special day at The Rock of Central Florida! Last Sunday Holy Spirit prompted our Visionary to ask that everyone who has not been dedicated, […]

“….Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.” Luke 2:22 Dedication: being dedicated or committed; commitment, devotion, faithfulness, steadfastness The baby dedications have been on my mind all week. July 30th, 2023 is a marked day in The Rock of Central Florida. Children dedicated to Yahweh God, and anyone, men […]

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Romans 8:31-32 No, in all these things we are more than […]

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 I love this scripture, for the first time in my life! Growing up in the Lutheran tradition, we as believers never really applied these […]

“The earth is the Yahweh’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;” Psalm 24:1 Recently my one year old sings, “He’s got the whole world in His hands!” To me every day! She goes on to sing about all of the things He holds in His hands… The Momma’s and […]

…but they that wait for the LORD will renew their strength… Isaiah 40:30 I’m sitting in a room at work waiting for a job to do today, and I’ve started to ponder the value of waiting not only on the the Lord, but for anything in life. I would venture to say that most folks […]

Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword […]

“And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” James 3:18 This past week, I had the opportunity to walk out the very thing we have been talking about.. Peace. Well, I can safely say I messed up. It was one of those days at work that started fine but by […]

Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Psalm 32:1 At the heart of our belief is that Christ is the Son of God and through His sacrifice, we are redeemed back to Yahweh. From this place of faith, blessing is present! In the unseen place, so much is created! In you, […]

But the LORD hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship threatened to break up. Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried out to his god. And they hurled the cargo that was in the ship into the sea to lighten it […]

“Taste and see that Yahweh is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.” Psalm 34:8 I see Yahweh as a tree in this passage. To taste the fruit of His blessings and purpose, there is no other conclusion to come to than it being GOOD. His canopy can cover and shield us […]

Taste and see that Yahweh is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him. Psalm 34:8 Last week I asked my team to consider what that verse means to them. Posing that question made me consider the importance of occupying your seat at His table, or your role in your family, or your […]

Twice last week I encountered the topic of entertainment. One was at one of the Wednesday night classes. We all engage in various forms. Television, music, sports, arts, hobbies, pass-times, even social media, and it can been be purely amusement or it can be educational. Almost anything can be entertainment depending on your interests. Holy […]

And he came to the sheepfolds by the way, where there was a cave, and Saul went in to relieve himself. Now David and his men were sitting in the innermost parts of the cave. And the men of David said to him, “Here is the day of which the LORD said to you, ‘Behold, […]

“Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it.” Proverbs 15:16 As human beings, we tend to over complicate things. We often approach situations with grand plans and ideas. We over analyze problems to the point where nothing gets done, frustration boils over, and we are left with […]

I have talked about how I believe virtual reality is getting in the way of reality – what’s happening right before our eyes. I charge you to again consider what virtual reality through your phone, tablet, iPad, or computer is costing you. Most don’t consider the cost until it is too late and there is […]

Now it was a Sabbath on the day that Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. John 9:14 Today, open your soul to what the spirit of Yahweh is communicating! If we have very specific expectations on a particular way we think Yahweh will speak, we may miss something new that He is revealing to […]

Do you know the character and nature of Yahweh? How long has it been since you asked the deeper questions, searched out His heart or considered the mysteries laid out before you? I want to encourage you to not settle into a routine where you continue in the path that you always have or engage […]

You are likely reading this from an app on your phone or tablet, or perhaps you’ve logged on from your computer. Point being, you have access to a virtual reality that coexists with reality. Today I want to challenge you not to trade reality for interactions on virtual reality. What do I mean? How often […]

He makes his Angels the wind and his ministers burning fire.Psalm 104:4 Recently, we just celebrated The 4th of July as a nation. It is a joyful holiday and very different than Christmas or Thanksgiving which are usually very sentimental and touching or endearing. It is a significant day for our country, and 4th of […]

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 Recently, during worship, I thought about the future and how excited I was for it. I’ve recently made some changes in my life, and those changes have […]

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Recently my husband and I found ourselves in some debt. While I do have incredible health insurance coverage, two recent {unexpected} trips to the Hospital cost […]

This morning my toddler told me she wanted to hold one of my battery operated candles. Without really thinking, I said, “That’s a no-touch.” She is very obedient, eager to please, so she didn’t question me. As she went back about her business I thought, “Why did I say that’s a no-touch?” The more I […]

The other day, my husband had a stranger approach him and with a shaking voice they said, “I feel like I’m supposed to tell you that Jesus loves you.” He said, “Thank you!” Noting the courage it took for the young lady to approach him and say that. I found myself saddened by her comment […]

Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the door of the burning fiery furnace; he declared, “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out, and come here!” Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out from the fire. And the satraps, the prefects, the governors, and the king’s counselors gathered together and saw that the fire had not had any […]

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.” 1st Corinthians 13:1 We as believers have the ability to affect the world around us with our sound. With Holy Spirit, a whisper can be just as impactful as a […]

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matt. 5:9 It has been my observation for some time now, the responsibility of believers to be peacemakers as a regular part of their daily walk. You may have never even thought about the effect you have on others as you are confronted […]

“For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 Have you ever found yourself experiencing an event and after […]

“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.” Proverbs 10:22 Recently a friend of mine reminded me of this scripture. Tonight while rocking my baby to sleep, I was considering this verse again. I looked into my sleeping baby’s face and thought, “It is true.” My baby is […]

“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” 1 Corinthians 15:33 It’s hard when we have the best intentions and are still somehow guilty by association. Perhaps our intentions were to help the people we were associated with, but when seen by others we look no different. Often times our Visionary has said, “Don’t […]

“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:6 I think sometimes it’s easy for us to get caught up in what we don’t understand and forget that we aren’t supposed to have all of the answers. If you are in relationship with Yahweh, all you have to do is […]

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 What if an inconvenience or sacrifice to you made way for another’s blessing? Recently, my family was on an airplane for an early flight. After a series of […]

Recently, I was afforded the opportunity to visit an immersive art exhibit. It is interactive, and feel as though you are a part of it not just looking at it. In this particular exhibit was a maze of mirrors to walk through. Immediately, your mind probably went to the carnival fun houses that are full […]

“Honor the LORD from your wealth And from the first of all your produce; So your barns will be filled with plenty And your vats will overflow with new wine.” Proverbs 3:9-10 It’s clear to me from the above passage that Yahweh wants to be the only one filling our barns after He is honored with […]

“But one time when they tried it, the evil spirit replied, ‘I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who are you?’” Acts 19:15 What a powerful encounter and contrast of “knowing someone” or “not knowing them.” To know someone is defined by the dictionary as: being aware of them through observation, inquiry, or information; to […]

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24 Back in my college days, and right after I received Christ, I participated in a Christian recording as a “back-up” singer on the album. I was new to this, both to Christianity and […]

And my God will liberally supply (fill until full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen. Philippians 4:19-20 This morning I am sitting and looking out at the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean in Ft. Lauderdale. One of […]

“I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever.” Psalm 145:1 I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that my relationship with Yahweh is at its strongest when I focus on who He is and not on what He has done for me. So many people look […]

“But I will remember for them the covenant with their ancestors, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the nations, so that I might be their God. I am the Lord.’” Leviticus 26:45 This week, I met with a friend, and we shared our testimonies. I found that rehearsing life […]

Recently Holy Spirit has been teaching me about honor. He told me that saying, “I honor you!” isn’t a true offering of honor at all. It has to cost me something for my words to carry the weight of glory. It does not have to be a monetary gift of honor, it just has to be […]

“They are planted in the house of the LORD; they flourish in the courts of our God.” Psalms 92:13-15 Last week, we discussed the mandate and importance of being planted where Yahweh has placed you. This week, we want to dig a little deeper into the value and purpose of being planted. Specifically, we will address […]

He caused the east wind to blow in the heavens, and by his power he led out the south wind; Psalm 78:26 Currently, the weather pattern in the earth is changing from what has been considered La Nina for quite some time, to an El Nino. With El Nino comes hotter climate conditions and more […]

“As we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” 2nd Corinthians 4:18 Recently a work associate of mine had a loss in their family. Without being too specific, for anyone that was […]

“You shall do no wrong in judgment, in measures of length or weight or quantity. You shall have just balances, just weights, a just ephah(dry), and a just hin(liquid): I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt.” Lev. 19:35-36 I was walking today down through an industrial park, […]

Psalms 92:12-15 (ESV) 12 The righteous flourish like the palm treeand grow like a cedar in Lebanon.13 They are planted in the house of the LORD;they flourish in the courts of our God.14 They still bear fruit in old age;they are ever full of sap and green,15 to declare that the LORD is upright;he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.

We are called to be planted in the house of Yahweh. In Psalms 92, He describes the reason to be planted and the fruit it will produce. Unfortunately, people will too often dismiss this principle of planting themselves in a local church body (house of the LORD). Different excuses creep in and distract them from this key principle of the Kingdom. For example, I had such a busy week, and I need a day off; I can watch online, and it is the same as being in person; God knows my heart, and I do not have to go; I don’t fit in; all the church wants is my money, and the list goes on. These reasons will not only rob from you, but they will rob the body of Christ of your anointing and ministry. You are an essential part of His Kingdom, and God wants to activate your call.This in no way is judgment or condemnation, but an opportunity to be edified to embrace a vital aspect of being a disciple of Christ and a child of the Living God.We must understand that we are either planted in “the house of Yahweh” or we are planted somewhere else. Yahweh uses this analogy of “being planted” to help us understand that we choose where we set ourselves and where we permit our roots to dig in. Where you are planted is where your roots draw from. Consider, if one is planted in materialism, pride, selfishness, or other worldly falsehoods what happens to the roots and to the one planted there? However, the one planted in the Living Water, in Truth, in Grace and in Life will have a different outcome!So, as you start your day consider where you are planted? What are you allowing your roots to be invested in? Are you choosing the fertile soil (church body) He is providing or is it something else? Be challenged today to get planted in His House, to be an active part and let your roots go deep!

"Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly." Proverbs 14:29

Recently, I have noticed that I have been losing my temper more often and letting my emotions get the best of me. Now, I will admit that this doesn’t add to any situation and certainly doesn’t make things any better. In fact, I believe that when I let my emotions escalate beyond what is reasonable, it invites calamity.The world is ruled by their emotions, and people are constantly making decisions based on how they feel instead of what is right. This is particularly true when someone is angry. That person can find it easy to justify their own actions, because a situation or person made them “mad enough.” “Yahweh, help us to be slow to anger! Help us to pause and carefully consider before we respond. We don’t invite calamity, we invite peace, strength, and self control. We love you Yahweh and will be your ambassadors in the earth!”Amen

Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with timbrel and dancing, praise him with the strings and pipe,praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalms 150

Hallel Shalem! I have felt the praise of Yahweh in my soul this past week and reflected on just what does it mean to give Him my praise. To praise someone is to express warm approval or admiration of. In Hebrew the word for praise is Hallel, or Hallel Shalem which means complete praise. Who is more worthy than our Creator and Maker, Yahweh God almighty?Praise Him in it all. Praise Him in every moment, every minute. Praise Him when you feel high and when you feel low, praise Him when it is easy and when it is hard. Praise Him when you are celebrated and when you are corrected. Praise Him in the day and the night, the light and the dark. Praise Him going in and coming out, upon ascension and descend with a shout. When the fire comes praise Him, and when the rains pour praise Him. Lift your hands high, and pick up your feet. Use every breath to praise Him in every way you are able.Do it in every place, with everyone and with everything you have at your disposal. My encouragement today is Hallel Shalem- give Him complete praise with the fullness of your being; mind, body, and spirit.

Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. 1 Cor. 1:11 I’ve been doing a lot of imitating for the past few weeks, not necessarily from righteous people, but from Holy Spirit working through a righteous place. Sometimes, Yahweh allows something He’s working in you, to be accomplished through an unexpected source. Not all […]

“These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I would go with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God with glad shouts and songs of praise, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.” Psalm 42: 4-6

David has a way of expressing his soul that is so vivid, with its highs and lows. In these verses, he frames his current anguish with time. He reflects on the past to remember joyous days, he acknowledges his present feeling, and then he orients himself to the future, knowing that true praise will come again.

At Dyhn, we have a movement that speaks to this. We stand, with arms outstretched, looking behind us to honor our past, then moving our gaze to our present day, and finally looking forward to what is to come. This is a powerful framework, as our natural being is meant to consider Yahweh’s full faithfulness. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. When you are in a challenging time, position yourself to move beyond the circumstances and feelings of today by rehearsing your testimony. It will ground yourself in His faithfulness so that you can flow through and into what is next. Let this build your soul with hope to speak to your tomorrow. He has been good, He is good, and He always will be. I bless you today!

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phillipians 4:7

As you start your day, I remind you that the peace of Yahweh God is your portion! It surpasses all understanding and will guard your heart and your mind! Do not settle for anything less! If you do, it is your choice, but it is not a choice you have to make. Your portion is Yahweh’s peace!

Then they came to the place of which God had told him; and Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood, and bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. And Abraham reached out with his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son.But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Do not reach out your hand against the boy, and do not do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.” Then Abraham raised his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram caught in the thicket by its horns; and Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering in the place of his son. And Abraham named that place The Lord Will Provide, as it is said to this day, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” Genesis 22:9-14

Too often I think the faith of a son is overlooked in this passage. Was it because of the faith of Isaac that the promise turned into a covenant for generation after generation?By the time this event occurred Isaac was a young man who was strong enough to carry the wood for the sacrifice up a steep mountain slope. He had been raised in a home that honored Yahweh God, had watch his father trust, had sat at his feet and listened of Yahweh’s goodness, and now walked beside his father in faith. Isaac was no doubt physically stronger than Abraham given that Abraham was well advanced in age (over 100 years) and could have easily overtaken his father when it was time to be bound and laid on the alter, but his trust was in Yahweh God.I believe this, Isaac had been raised up and like Abraham, his trust was in his God. I believe that regardless of what the moment looked like he knew the promises of Yahweh and that Abraham’s descendants would be named through Isaac (Gen 21:12). I believe that Isaac had his own personal relationship with Yahweh, and had seen evidence of His faithfulness, and Isaac knew in whom he trusted.

Whoever strives to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will keep it. Luke 17:33

Before the words were ever spoken in the 2^nd testament by Jesus Christ, Isaac lived them out and was the evidence of their truth. He was willing to do whatever was asked of him and he did it well unto completion. Isaac witnessed and participated in the moment that Yahweh showed up and showed off and provided all that was required. It was to the glory of Yahweh because of the obedience of the son.

“As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him…” Titus 3:10

Boundaries are a good thing. They don’t represent a lack of freedom nor do they hinder us from becoming who we are supposed to be. Sometimes in our lives, it becomes necessary to draw lines and establish boundaries. This doesn’t mean we shut the outside world out. It simply means we must take a stand when others insist and even embrace compromise.Here’s the hard part. Sometimes we have to draw lines with family and friends and make sure we do not give up ground just because we are tired of fighting. Sometimes, hard choices have to be made. You don’t want to reach the end of your life and realize you conceded or compromised in areas where you knew Yahweh was telling you to remain firm. Stand strong! For yourself and for your seed! Yahweh sees you and will give you the strength to endure.

“Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other.” Deuteronomy 4:39

What a way to start today! Acknowledge the omnipresence and sovereignty of our God. He is here! He is everywhere. He is where you are, present in your situations, accessible by the spirit (Heaven) and present also in the earth. Recognize and receive that for your day so that you will have joy, wisdom, comfort, and strength to see Him in all that you do.

As you witness goodness, thank Him and exalt Him! If you encounter something difficult, remember that the final say is His. Set that in your heart. Let your mind acknowledge and your heart feel that He is at work in all things. All of creation is His. It belongs to no other. May hope and life flow freely from that truth for you today!

“So the woman left her water jar and went away into town and said to the people, ‘Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ?’ They went out of the town and were coming to him.” John 4:28-30

The meeting Jesus had with the Samaritan woman, or as she is more famously known “the woman at the well,” was truly amazing and provides much insight. But today we will focus on one specific aspect of this story; the moment when the woman departed from Jesus, and went into her town, broadcasting her encounter with Christ. The woman left her natural responsibility (the water jar) to fulfill her spiritual calling – to be His representation. As a promotor serves his client, as a television commercial advocates a product, as a social media post publicizes an agenda, or as a politician promotes a policy, the woman at the well became the representation of Christ to her hometown in Samaria.Put this encounter into context; this woman was shunned by her people (Samaritans) because of poor choices she made; Samaritans and Jews did not like each other, nor were they friendly. In fact, Samaritans and Jews were adversaries, and would not be caught talking with each other, let alone advertising they had a conversation with one another. Needless to say, the woman at the well was naturally not the best choice to be a representative for a Jew. But she was the perfect choice for Christ! In fact, Christ used her, thus changing many lives and impacting a region forever.Christ is not looking for the flawless person or a perfect situation, but for someone willing to hear, willing to obey, and willing to act. He will use you if you are willing to be His representative. So, as you start your day, do not allow your circumstance to limit your potential for the Kingdom, and do not allow your past to hinder your future. Instead, grab hold of His words, His healing, His redemption, and be His representative to whomever you encounter.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” Deuteronomy 6:5-9

Growing up, my parents, my siblings, and I prayed together every night before bed. After we each said our prayer, we sang a song together. The words are, “You shall love Yahweh your God with all your heart, with all your heart! You shall love Yahweh your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And you shall love your neighbor as you love yourself. You shall love Yahweh your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.” Now, having children of my own, I sing this to them after I pray over them every night at bedtime. Tonight while I was singing I considered that my parents did exactly what Deuteronomy 6:5-9 says to do. They left an impression on me that above all else, I should love Yahweh with every part of who I am.Today I encourage you to leave that same impression on those you have influence on. Whether it be your spouse, your children, your neighbor, your friend, your mom, your dad, or your sibling… impress the love of God on those you have influence over! As I sat tonight and sang my babies the song my parents sang to me growing up I realized that I am a testament of what it means to influence those around you to truly love God. Leave that kind of impression today!

“You are the light of the world.” Matthew 5:14

The world needs your light. Our society needs your light. Your coworkers need your light. The person at the checkout counter at the grocery store needs your light. Today I encourage you to remember that YOU are the light of the world! There is no such thing as being unseen, even when you feel like no one notices you or you don’t want to be noticed.The Kingdom of God will only expand through others seeing the light that you are and when they do, by you offering them opportunity to know Yahweh like you do.

The body of christ needs business to expand the Kingdom of God. Even Christ understood this. If faith without works is dead a church depending only on faith is in trouble.

Diving into what motherhood looks like from a mother's perspective.

The Father is awakening those who slumber. An awakening is the beginning of rousing, to be awakened as from a slumber, to suddenly be aware of something. Be ready, and know you have everything you need to rule and reign in this day.

“and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.” Luke 8:3

I was intrigued last Sunday when Luke 8:3 was read and wanted further understanding. The word ‘means’ or ‘substance’ is translated from the Greek word huparcho. Huparcho is an action, a verb, that means to begin, to be ready or at hand. It was used to express I begin, Am, exist, and am in possession (ownership). To break it down even further, huparcho comes from the root hupo- which signifies to be under, and -archo indicates ruling, to begin or I rule, I reign.Huparcho shows our faith in action and it is how you navigate the secret place of ascent. Huparcho is a demonstration of being covered in His shadow and exemplifies giving from the place the Father has called you to and set you in authority. Joanna, and many others, “provided for them out of their means.” This indicates they provided out of who they were. They began and allowed the I Am to flow in and through them, and THEY OWNED IT. They ruled and reigned in the place they were given authority and stewarded it well. They used all they were in possession of (inwardly and outwardly), all they owned to provide, govern, and reign and it was to the betterment of all mankind.It required their action, their huparcho because no one could do it for them, and they did not just do it, but they excelled and it was all to the glory of the Father.My encouragement today, be awakened to the depth of huparcho. What are your means? Begin today to flow from that place of ownership, it is in you. You are ready and you are at hand because He is in you. Yahweh God put it all there- every witty idea and invention, every dream, every ability, and every passion. Be awakened and be ready.

He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Psalm 37: 6

Sometimes, as believers, we get caught up in thinking that when we are sure that we are right about something, that it is also righteous in nature. Being right does not make us righteous at all, and we have to be careful that we do not make them synonymous with each other.

If we walk in obedience to Yahweh then we become righteous, just as He is righteous. Now we are in fellowship with Him, and even when we make a mistake in judgment we don't lose our righteous standing with Him, but we repent and make the correction to do what is right. Only righteousness leads to right thinking, but right thinking without the Holy Spirit does not make one righteous.

As you start your day, don't concentrate on being right or not, but look to The Father's standard of righteousness in you and He will set you as a light to the lost.

“That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” John 17:21

We know that only God can change a man’s heart and draw someone toward Himself. However, isn’t it great when Yahweh uses us to be the instrument by which He draws someone in? Isn’t it awesome to witness the Spirit in us communicate with the Spirit in another person? Spirit to Spirit communication is truly incorruptible. It is pure and has no bias or malice. It is the only way we can have complete unity with each other. As you go throughout the week, don’t ignore the opportunities Yahweh places before you to communicate with someone on a deeper level. Not only will you watch a supernatural change in them, but you will be overwhelmed with a joy that you may have never experienced before.

“Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when he heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was.” John 11:5-6

We all have heard the story of how Jesus raised his dear friend, Lazarus, from the dead after four days. If you have not, I encourage you to go read John 11.A key aspect of this story is Jesus was informed of Lazarus’ illness, but instead of going to him immediately, Jesus chose to wait two more days. Now in those two days, Lazarus illness worsened, and he eventually died. Obviously, causing sorrow and grief for Lazarus’ family, specifically his two sisters, Mary and Martha (whom Jesus knew).So, the question is, why did Jesus choose to wait? By waiting, He allow two more days of illness and physical suffering for Lazarus and emotional worry and distress for his family. In John 11:4, Jesus answers that question:

“When Jesus heard it he said, ‘This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.’”

This illness, this problem, this situation will be used to glorify Jesus, the Son of God. Jesus does not want people to suffer for suffering’s sake, but with all things, there is a purpose. Living in this natural world, we will face trials, troubles, and tribulations (James 1:2-4, John 16:33). We will face problems. But the good news is, those struggles are not the end of the story.The Father uses those times, those moments, to do a work in us and to impact those around us. It creates a testimony in you, that will be noticed as a miracle by others. It enables for Christ to be glorified, as He is the miracle worker.Yes, there will be difficult times; yes, there will be overwhelming moments, but it is in those seasons where faith is matured, and the sons of God are discovered. Jesus did not wait two more days to punish Lazarus, Mary, or Martha. He waited to impact his disciples, to mature Mary and Martha, and to influence generations to come.Because of this event, although it was difficult for this one family, the subsequent encounter with Jesus made a lasting impact on not only their lives, but generations to come! It served to be a teaching, an inspiration, and an encouragement for countless people. In fact, what they endured over 2,000 years ago is still being used by Yahweh today to influence and encourage our world.So, as you start your day, do not look at the issue you are facing as negative or a punishment. But embrace it as an opportunity for God to do a mighty miracle in you, to glorify Himself, but also to mature you. Who knows, your troubles of today may be the hope for others tomorrow.

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬ ‭There is a time in everyone’s life where they may feel like giving up is the only option. When there’s so much on your mind you cannot fathom the thought giving more of yourself to another person place or thing. I’ve been there. I’m sure we all have!There’s a very special opportunity we have everyday that’s one of the most crucial to recognize. It’s an opportunity to take one more step forward. I mean come on! Where else are you going to go? Doesn’t your current obstacle in front of you have you cornered? There is only one way to go! FORWARD!Today I encourage you to take that step!!! Stand the TEST!!!! It is well worth it!!!! Amen!!!!

“O My dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs….”. Song of Solomon 2:14

It is wonderous to me that hidden in the 1st Testament was a key to ascent and positioning that would be made available, in and through Christ, thousands of years later. In the Song of Solomon, there is a secret place of stairs or a secret place of ascent. It is found in the shadow, in the covering, in the “cleft of the rock.” It is not a hiding place, but rather a reflection of what is offered, and it leads to a pathway of goodness, abundance, wholeness (body and spirit), and where His authority and power rest upon you as you are seated in Him. He is calling us in to see us, those who believe and abide so that we may sit in the heavenly place as sons and heirs.

“And He raised us up together with Him (when we believed), and seated us with Him in the heavenly places (because we are) in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:6

It is a secret place of intent that far too few access, but the invitation has been extended. The door is open if you will step through and a pathway of ascent in waiting. You must first step in and the rising begins. It requires you to give your yes and amen which represents a beginning and completion, in Him.

Rise and be seated with Him in heavenly places. It is a divine space where your spirit dwells with Him. As you go about your day to day life- work, chores, errands, sports, your body functions as it was intended in the earth as your spirit rests and you are seated fully and completely, in Him.

My encouragement to you today, step in to where He is calling you. Set your foot upon the path and ascend the steps in front of you. It’s leading you to the seat prepared for you in heavenly places.

“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” Matthew 5:42

As sons and daughters of Yahweh, we have a responsibility to help those in need. However, let us approach this from a different perspective. Think about the hundreds of interactions you probably have with people throughout your week, from long conversations to brief nods or smiles to strangers. If you think about it, you are imparting a piece of yourself in every conversation and meeting you have. You are giving of yourself every time. Now, imagine if you were intentional with every one of these. Imagine if you began to really approach these transactions with thought and care. If you were tuned into the Spirit, what might you see and hear? What might Yahweh have you impart to a friend or even a complete stranger?Yahweh needs us to bring the Gospel to the nations. He needs us to impart His truth to the people around us. This means really being aware and focused during small and large interactions. There is such a thirst and need for righteousness in the world. Rise to the occasion and meet that need this week! Love you all!

“They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” 1 Timothy 6: 18-19

I recently saw a video on social media that inspired me! The individual was encouraging her viewers to share one thing they've learned and post it online, as a text, or in conversation, because sometimes one concept or helpful thought can change a day for the better. As you start your day, I encourage you to do the same. Consider how impactful the right word in the right season can be. Think of how a song lyric, a phrase from a sermon, a compliment from a co-worker, or a helpful hack can have a lasting effect.

What is something that you could share? Consider this naturally and spiritually. Do you have a piece of knowledge that would help someone? Have you heard something from Holy Spirit that has made a difference for you that you could share? It doesn't have to be grand, complicated, or poetic for someone to be able to "take hold of that which is truly life." Be that spark of life today, and generously share. You will be planting seeds of life!

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matt. 5:16

I was reflecting on The Rocks "Man on the Street" interviews from Resurrection Sunday and thought of the one connection that all of them had in common. None of the people who were asked the same basic question by the Rock Team were unfamiliar with church "things" or religion. They all answered according to their exposure to past church experiences and a family history of religious activities. All of them said that, ..."In the past", or, "When I was younger I used to do this or that." There were lot's of reasons why these folks were acquainted with Christ, but no one really wanted to KNOW Him.

Now let me ask you a question. What if that person was you? What if you felt like Christ was the Son of God, but didn't really believe there was much power in that claim beyond when you were 6 or 7 years old? We, as believers need to be careful not to weaken the Christ anointing by lowering our expectations to the point of irrelevancy.

Today, we have the opportunity to shine our light among men and see The Kingdom ever increasing in our lives and in the earth. Someone was a light to all of the interviewees in the video, but what happened to make these folks turn away? Let's be real and hear what they have to say and answer the questions they are asking, not the ones we THINK they should ask.

“Not that we dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who are commending themselves. But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding.” 2 Corinthians 10:12

“Oh, don’t worry; we wouldn’t dare say that we are as wonderful as these other men who tell you how important they are! But they are only comparing themselves with each other, using themselves as the standard of measurement. How ignorant!” Corinthians 10:12

Comparing oneself to others is such a common behavior most people do without even knowing it. We compare our careers, our homes, our cars, our talents, our positions, our vacations, our churches. If we are honest with ourselves, we even compare our families with other families. Many times, we shape how we value ourselves on these comparisons.There is a fine line between comparing oneself from a place of coveting and offense, versus from a place of aspiration and purpose. Let me explain; when one compares from a place of coveting and offense, their position is focused on what they lack and on their perceived shortcomings. Many times, these shortcomings turn into frustration, low confidence, and sometimes even anger. It impacts their own performance, their relationships, and most importantly, their walk with God. They begin to blame others for their condition, and in time, this mindset becomes an offense. For example, we have heard people say, “they were born with a silver spoon in their mouth,” or “why does God bless them and not me,” or “why did they get promoted and not me, I have been with the company longer.” This is a destructive road if taken. In Luke 12:15 we are directed not to covet others, and in Jeremiah 29:11, we must trust the Father in our own journey, not envy someone else’s.To compare from a place of aspiration and purpose can be extremely constructive. When one sees someone achieve success or recognition, it can become an example or a standard to strive for. It can create inspiration in one’s heart to move forward, to work, to be disciplined, and it can provide hope! Sometimes it can provide a pathway when a person is unsure of the next step. The Father uses people and puts them in our lives to serve as inspirations and to help us fulfill His purpose in our own journey. You never know who He will send. He sent Paul (1 Corinthians 11:1), a former pharisee to be a standard to help us become more like Christ.So, as you start your day, do a self-check, and consider how you view others related to your own life. Allow your heart to be led by Holy Spirit and seek inspiration not offense.

When I look around today, no matter where I am, it is evident that our society does not understand honor. The younger generation has no respect for the older generation, people have no respect for other’s things, timeliness is not important, there is lack of honor for self demonstrated through wardrobe, language, peer groups, etc. I could go on and on. Consider the ways you see the lack of honor in our society in your every day life.How do we change that? We can only introduce honor to those under our influence. Honor is introduced through example, it cannot be imposed. You cannot give someone the definition of honor and expect them to understand how to actively honor themself and those around them. It is taught by example. That being said, if each one of us create a culture of honor through our example with those under our influence, we can create a culture of honor in our society. It can’t be done with just one person, it will take all of us doing our part to reintroduce honor to our society.As you start your day today, I encourage you to consider honor. If you lack honor, I encourage you to address those areas in your life. If you have no lack, I encourage you to lead by example those under your influence to help reintroduce honor to our society.

But I will keep hope alive, and my praise to You will grow exponentially.
Psalm 71:14

This week, I was talking with a friend who said, "Thank you for giving me hope,” in response to a personal story I'd shared. Her words illuminated to me how powerful our testimonies are. What we have experienced, overcome, or are currently navigating bears weight. As we share wisdom or comfort, we can "bring" hope. Consider the visual of that: your words literally bringing something to the hearer.

What we say has an opportunity to last. Our words are life or death. Speaking an idea aloud creates something. Will it bring hope? Encouragement? Harm? Peace? Regret? Inspiration?

As you start your day, see your words as a vessel that carry influence, because they do. Let them bring our God praise. Let them lift up everyone around you. Let them protect, set free, and build. Be the bringer of hope and life today!

And your life will be brighter than the noonday; its darkness will be like the morning. And you will feel secure, because there is hope; you will look around and take your rest in security. You will lie down, and none will make you afraid; many will court your favor. Job 11:17-19

Hope is an amazing thing. It is the spark that keeps us going. On our worst and best days, hope is present. In the above passage, it even says the darkness of our life is like the morning, because we have hope!Now, because hope is always present, there is no challenge or difficulty that can overtake us. As long as we trust in Yahweh, our hope in Him will always bring us through. This week, put aside despair and embrace hope. Or, if you find yourself firmly in a place of hope, be hope to someone else who may need it. And if you don’t see it yet in your circumstance, begin to declare it with your mouth until it comes into view.

On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; 16 and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.” Luke 17:11-19

All ten of the lepers were healed, but only one came back to praise God and give thanks! Why was it only one who returned to Jesus? Yes, Jesus did direct them to report to the priest, but He never told them to do that before praising and thanking God. So, why did the nine not return to Jesus? Here are a couple of observations to this question.One, people can be more concentrated on culture, traditions, or religion. The nine that did not return to Jesus after their healing were more motivated to fulfill the religious law. They sought the priests in order to be proclaimed clean, rather than praise the One who cleaned them. The rule became their priority, not a relationship with the One who made the rule.Two, people tend to focus more so on what they receive, rather than on the One who provides. All ten lepers received physical healing, and most likely, they all wanted to return to their old lives. But only one recognized Jesus who provided and then returned to praise God. He was not aware of the tremendous gift awaiting him. But as he returned, he received much more than just physical healing. He was given a new life in salvation through Christ.So, as you start your day, do not lose focus, or get distracted away from Yahweh. Our Father is faithful, and wants to provide, bless, heal, and restore in every area of our lives. But we cannot put other items or desires before Him. Remember to praise Him in all things, thank Him in all things, and worship Him in all things. Be the one who puts Him first in everything!

The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:2

This verse was read in a recent Sunday message, and is a beautiful reminder of a facet of who our Heavenly Father is! In the same service we sang a song written within our house that says, “Under the shadow of your Wings, I find refuge and strength…” This is our positioning, and Psalm 18:2 is our declaration.

I am here to remind you today, everything you need, all that yourequire is in Him! He will hold us in the hidden place, if we will position ourselves in the shadow. We must choose it, He will not force us or do it for us. It is in THAT place that He is our rock, our fortress, our strength, our shield, and our horn of salvation.He is, in every moment, in every day, in every high or low place, bright or dark place, all of these things and more! King David knew this, and continually worshipped and praised the Creator from it.

As I reread this scripture this week, one particular piece stood out to me. David was praising the horn of salvation. In scripture, a qeren (Hebrew for horn) was seen as a symbol of victory, power, and even authority. David knew in whom he trusted, and He knew who had the ultimate victory and where he would see salvation. In all of his days, David stood in the shadow of His wings.

Yahweh is the champion in every Day, and should be recognized as such. He is the horn of salvation for the one who knows and the one who has not yet come into relationship. Every good and perfect thing comes from Him and through Him. So, spend your days lifting your voice, and exalt He who breathed life into your very bones.

The LORD lives, blessed be my rock; And may the God of my salvation be exalted. Psalm 18:46

I have been considering the miracle of healing and today, I ask you to consider with me.I think it’s important to remind ourselves that the miracle called “healing” isn’t that we forget what happened, or that we suddenly can’t see and reminisce about what we were healed from, the miracle is that Yahweh God opened up a pathway for us to walk with healing separated from what hurt us. You can choose to dwell on what was, but then you miss the glory of the miracle, the manifestation of healing.Today I encourage you to focus on Him. If he has set you free from something, if He has healed you from something, don’t look back at what He set you free from or what He healed you from. Keep your eyes set on Him. Keep your mind set on Him. Give the matters of your heart to Him every new day. Healing is a miracle, and it is up to us to walk in the fullness of that miracle. Yahweh will make a way, but He will not impose the way on us.

"I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of The Lord in the land of the living!" Psalm 27:13

On the way to The Rock this past Sunday, my child was having a difficult time. I moved to the backseat to bring calm and see what was going on. I brushed my hand on the top of his head and looked into his eyes, and he immediately drew peace. I started singing the song "Goodness" that Kaley Hoffman wrote some years ago. It's one that I sang over us right after he was born, and one that I sang many times during newborn nights to get him back to sleep.

"I will see your goodness everywhere, and I will sing of it over and over. Even in the whirlwind, you'll find me standing there singing your goodness rains, your goodness reigns." Every time I've sung this to Yahweh, but in this moment, I recognized it was to my child too. When music began at the service, and we sang this song as a congregation, I was so thankful.

Sometimes we need to remind ourselves to look at those we love, and those we are assigned to, to see the goodness in them. Even in their whirlwinds, to remember that Yahweh's spirit is within. Remember that the potential of that spirit can reign over whatever the natural looks like. It's easy to be caught in the whirlwind, and it's easy to see the Adam in another, but whether it's your child, your co-worker, or yourself - see His goodness, see His mark, and let it rain.

"And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]." Romans 12:2

“You are what you eat.”I was reminded this week of this funny little quote I remember being taught in grade school. It just popped into my mind and gave me pause. Naturally and practically speaking, we know what we eat and put into our body affects every aspect of who we are. It affects our overall health, our eyesight, our minds, our gut, our heart, and it even effects our sleeping patterns, moods, and energy levels. Even certain foods are known for being good for eyesight, heart health, brain health, or even muscle building or blood building. We will intentionally eat certain foods when trying to improve or correct certain areas, and will avoid others when we know they are detrimental to our health.Spiritually, you are also what you feast upon. What you watch or look at, what you listen to, who you fellowship with or spend your time with, where you go, what you spend your time doing- this is all feasting, and I have noticed it has been a recurring theme in our house the last couple weeks with an emphasis on taking a look at who we spend time with (good counsel) or what we listen to.It is practical to evaluate what it is that we allow into our lives. What we let in is what will come out, you become what you behold, you are what you eat. It becomes the nourishment for our soul, and it can either be good for you or not. What we spend time looking at we begin to look like, what goes into our ears is what we begin to sound like, and it will often begin to manifest in the natural. How we spend our time is what feeds our spirit man. It will either become healthy and strong or sickly and weak.Consider this, what we dwell upon becomes the pattern of our thoughts and ultimately the way we speak. What we look at and listen to affects our minds, our moods, and even our energy- input and output. Who we surround ourself with can ultimately be a matter of life or death.This body is a temple for Yahweh God to live and dwell. Tend to it. Nourish it by feasting on the sights and sounds of His goodness. Fill it with life giving sustenance and surround yourself with those who are doing the same. Guard your eye gates with fierce resolution, engage in Kingdom conversation, and avoid the confusion of Babylon.

"But evil people and imposters will flourish. They will deceive others and will themselves be deceived. But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you." 2 Timothy 3: 13-14

Steve's message this past Sunday on good counsel has been especially useful for me this week. I learned that not all bad counsel comes from sitting down in front of someone or a group with the express purpose to be counseled. A few days ago I was seeking advice from an online source(trusted) with a technical issue I had to clear up. It turned out that this "trusted" source was a scam phishing for some unwitting(not paying attention) person to "fix" my problem.

Nothing about this attempt to "help" me felt right by my spirit. Everything about this also sounded crooked. Well, before this call got too far, I interrupted the phony with the unexpected reply of, " Excuse me, I need to make a call..." I was met with a very anxious response and I just cut them off.

Quickly dialing my REAL trusted source, I was assured that this "phisher of men" had not been able to access my information and that nothing was lost. I reported the scam to them and told them that these people didn't sound like anyone from this office, as I know the PROTOCOL very well.

Here's what we need to be reminded of every day. Even counsel that is asked for, doesn't always have your best interest in mind. But, know the voices(literally) around you, and you will discern quickly the counsel that was sent to you, not exploiting you. This requires daily listening, praying, and worship to keep your skills in the Spirit and in the natural on point, with purpose.

"But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?" 1 John 3:17

Something I have tried to do (especially later in life) is to never hold onto things so tight, that I am unwilling to let them go. I always want my hands to be open. I want to be generous and never keep things for myself. This, I have found, is the key to true happiness. Some of the most miserable people I know are also the most selfish. This is one of the most practical aspects of the Kingdom. If you find yourself in a depressed state or in a rut, seek out a way to give of yourself and serve someone. It could be your time or a kind word. It doesn’t even have to be money, but it can be. Always be willing to have open hands. Yahweh has blessed us, and we should look for ways share with those in need. I want to encourage you this week to sow into someone in need. Hear Holy Spirit, so that you do not sow out of season or into something that you were not meant to breathe life into. Love you all and have a great week!

”And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, ‘Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?’ He said to him, ‘What is written in the Law? How do you read it?’ And he answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.’ And he said to him, ‘You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.’ But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbor?’” Luke 10:25-29As you read this passage, the lawyer clearly knew the Law, but poses a question to obtain clarification about who his neighbor is. On the surface, the lawyer’s question (“And who is my neighbor?”) seems innocent, but he was trying to justify himself. It appears he was trying to divide who he must love or not love. Who he had to care for, and who he did not. It seems he was trying to find a loophole in what he had to do to inherit eternal life.As you continue to read this passage Jesus tells the parable about the good Samaritan and uses this story to answer thelawyer’s question. Jesus discusses how a Samaritan compassionately and devotedly cared for an injured Jew on the side of a road. The fact is Samaritans and Jews were adversaries and did not care for each other. It would have been justified and culturally acceptable for the Samaritan to ignore the injured Jew and just walk by. But in this story, the Samaritan did as the Law directed, and he loved his neighbor (fellow man) as himself. He answered the lawyer’s question through his character.Jesus’ taught truth and emphasized there is no loophole to justify one’s character. Just because the world said it is normal and suitable, does not make it acceptable to Yahweh. He has called us to live as Christ, and not be entangled with worldly norms. Do we seek loopholes when it comes to the things directed by Holy Spirit? Or with the instructions Yahweh gives us in His Word? Do we embrace cultural norms and try to justify theminto our lives? Do we speak and act like the world, and claim to be a follower of Christ? These are some hard questions, but there are no loopholes when it comes to the things of Yahweh. There is the Truth, and then there is compromise.So, as you start your day, do a self-inventory, and consider your life, and be truthful and see if there are any loophole entangled in there. Are we trying to justify our behavior, or are we being transformed to be as Christ.

"Rejoice always," ‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭ESV‬‬This morning I woke up just considering the earth. The amount of hate that is displayed every day. The amount of gossip happening every day. The amount of false information given. The amount of people that are killed daily. The amount of families that are in mourning. To many believers, it almost seems like an everlasting losing battle. It hurts. It saddens. Progress almost seems nonexistent when it comes to seeing this world heal and change. Sometimes it looks like while we make small changes, the world makes a huge negative one. BUT GOD!!We give ourselves the duty of being the difference on Earth, but that’s not the immediate lone answer anymore. The answer alongside that is to REJOICE! To truly rejoice! There is much we can change in this world with our hands and feet. There’s much we can change in this world with ministering through music, preaching, and charity, but I just wonder what would happen if, in the midst of turmoil and suffering, the everyday believer, Christian, or pastor REJOICED? Or would they crumble like someone who doesn’t even know Yahweh?Ask yourself today! How are you reacting to the challenges you face? Are you demonstrating a total failure in the Father—the God you claim to have faith in? Or are you always rejoicing, demonstrating the authentic, raw, unbounded, and attractive faith that Yahweh fills us with when we truly believe? This is how we change the hearts and minds of people. Don’t wait until Sunday to rejoice. Claim him every time you feel his presence! It doesn’t matter where you are or who you are with. Every time you hear bad news! Every time you feel sick! Rejoice always!!! There are not enough people with the WANT TO and with the passion to demonstrate to and in front of those they don’t know! We have been called to live in such a way! Let’s show the world our confidence and faith in our Father. Allow his light to shine through you in everything you do and every mountain you face!

As Yahweh was passing by, a fierce wind tore mountains and shattered rocks ahead of Yahweh. But Yahweh was not in the wind. After the wind came an earthquake. But Yahweh wasn’t in the earthquake. After the earthquake there was a fire. But Yahweh wasn’t in the fire. And after the fire there was a quiet, whispering voice.When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his coat, went out, and stood at the entrance of the cave.Then the voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”1 Kings 19:11-13

Today I encourage you to be sensitive to the moment. In doing so, Yahweh will position you for your day. I found that on Sunday morning during worship, I was led to shift where I was to another area of the room. I did so and continued to worship. At some point, I looked around me and realized who I was surrounded by, and I perceived why Yahweh wanted me to move.

Sometimes when I think about positioning by the spirit, I visualize gaining authority in a career, displacing something, or being a demonstration to someone who doesn’t know Christ. All those things are true, but in my simple experience on Sunday morning, I wasn’t even positioning myself consciously. It wouldn’t have been noticeable to many, but when I looked around, I saw that Yahweh had positioned me in a place to connect with people that I really needed to. Had I ignored the “small voice,” I would have missed a personal encounter that meant a lot to me. No one saw a grand gesture, but my heart experienced something very special.

Yahweh is glorified when we let Him speak to where we stand, when we speak up, and when we move. Today, don’t second guess your spiritual instincts. Trust Yahweh’s shifts within that will position you to minister and to be ministered to. You will see that He knows just what this day needs, and that He remembers you, His beloved.

I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too are to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another.” John 13:34-35

These verses in scripture were one of Jesus’ last instructions to His disciples before he was taken, crucified, and resurrected. He knew what was about to happen, the pain and suffering He was about to endure yet He still instructed His followers to love one another. Christ came and disrupted what was always done. It is powerful and worthy of great consideration.

Let’s take a moment and really consider what was happening here. The command was to “love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too are to love one another.” How did He love them? He wasn’t focused on who they were, but rather who they were created to be. Regardless of their station in the world, regardless of their clothing, regardless of what they did before they met Him, regardless of where they were from.

He loved them by seeing who they designed to be. He disrupted whatever path they were on because He did not judge by outward appearance but rather saw as the Father sees and He saw their heart. Christ loved them by teaching them, walking with them, and then He sent them out to do the same. They went into the world teaching, preaching, healing, communing, and disrupting what had always been by doing what they saw Him do.

We have been given an incredible opportunity to learn, to see, to hear, and to understand who Christ is and why He was sent. Likewise, we have been given the ability to share that with others. To see them the way we have been seen. To love them the way we have been loved. My encouragement is- take the opportunity! When the opportunity arises to “love another and show unselfish concern”, take it.

For he says, “In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2nd Corinthians 6:2We are in a season where Yahweh is having us look outside of ourselves and begin to impact the world around us. Not that we haven’t been an impact before, but this is something different. We are being sent to alter atmospheres. We are being sent to be the conduit through which Yahweh can change lives. We are not entering this place illegally. We have been invited here. Only with an invitation can true change happen.I want to encourage you this week to disrupt someone’s life or routine in a good way as lead by the Spirit. You are ready, but are you willing? He has prepared you, but now He needs your YES.

“One day he got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side of the lake.” So they set out, and as they sailed he fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water and were in danger. And they went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm. He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and they marveled, saying to one another, “Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?” Luke 8:22-25 In this Bible passage, Jesus gave his disciples direction for the next part of their journey. His instruction included getting in a boat and crossing a lake. Sounds simple and easy. In fact, this endeavor for four of them must have seemed ordinary since they were fishermen and have done this activity many times.Understand, their obedience of getting in the boat and doing as Jesus directed put them right where they were supposed to be. They were in the middle of His plan and had to face a storm. It is a tremendous reminder for us, as we are obedient to Him, hardships still come. Obedience does not remove the trials in our lives. It is through our obedience in those trials that growth and maturing occur.When those tough circumstance come at us, we cannot miss what is happening. I have heard individuals reconsider their path when they face resistance or a storm. They begin to question the journey they have been directed to travel. Comments like “the devil is closing the door” or “if it is God, it should not be this hard.” First, the devil cannot close a door that God has opened, he is not that powerful. Secondly, walking with God does not mean life is easy, but you are empowered to face whatever comes your way. It is ironic, you had four fishermen in the boat, but they ran to a carpenter to save them. Those fishermen had the ability to weather the storm, in fact, all twelve of the disciples had it in them to overcome it. They just misplaced their faith.Jesus knew as they crossed the lake His disciples would face a tremendous storm. A storm so great it causes them to fear for their very own lives. But they were right where they were supposed to be, the storm was the catalyst to address their faith. So, as you start your day, consider the lake you must cross, the purpose you have been given, the direction He has set for you. Do not be discouraged, do not be dismayed, and do not be disobedient. You are right where He wants you!

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6You might ask, “Why are you talking about a Christmas event, when you should be talking about the Resurrection this time of year?” There are two very good reasons that have nothing to do with a liturgical calendar or time of year. First, neither of these church holidays would exist without the other, regardless of the time or season in which they are celebrated. Second, both were Christ moments that disrupted everything that the religious world was expecting from Yahweh; when it came to the King He was sending into the earth.Steve preached last week about “Disruption by Design”, and, for the first time in my life I really hadn’t seen Christ’s birth, death and resurrection as anything but church activities on a calendar. Also, my father as a pastor had told me these stories over and over, year after year. Now, before you think I’m minimalizing these historic and vital Christian occurrences, examine how you, as a Believer saw them yourself. When I recognize that the only way the religious system was going to have the opportunity to see Yahweh’s great power to have His way with the church, was to disrupt everything they knew, or thought they knew.Now I, as a young Believer(or at least churchgoer) was always trying to disrupt the current church order of things and try to upset the heirarchy in any way possible! The problem with my disruptions(full of zeal), was that most of them were of my own doing and had nothing to do with God, only rebellion.(Hey, it was the ’70’s.) But when I learned that Yahweh was the only one who could disrupt by design, I learned to lean into Him because He was the Designer!God isn’t asking us to disrupt things in our own mind, because that creates confusion in the very circumstances we want to change. But, disruption in the middle of mediocre religion and tradition by His design will, and has changed the world in a spectacular way. Today, don’t try to create disruption, just be everything God wants you to be and be prepared for every moment of opportunity brought your way. Your very presence will disrupt the “norm” without you manufacturing anything. Just be you!

This weekend our society will celebrate “Easter.” While the rest of the world highlights bunny’s and egg hunts, I encourage you to remember the true reason for this weekend’s celebration - the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our savior. He is the only reason we are able to have relationship with Yahweh God!

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." 1 Peter 1:3

Consider what new birth into living hope means to you. When you think about your life, do you realize what it cost so that you could have it?It’s probably safe to say that most of us celebrate our salvation every single day, but as you start your day today and gear up for “Easter weekend,” I encourage you to consider the truth of what you are celebrating. It didn’t come cheap, but you got it for free.

“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.” Psalm 37:23-24

If we don’t pay attention, minutes, hours, days, and even years can sweep by in an instant. Sometimes, we can be so focused on the destination, that we miss the journey along the way. Yahweh delights in the details! He wants the moments in our lives to matter and to not be glossed over.This requires focus and a determination to be aware and present in a moment. We cannot just put our brains on auto pilot while we wait for an outcome. Ask God this week to help you slow down and really enjoy what you are walking out. Take some deep breaths. Talk to God and let Him know the details matter to you too!

Happy Birthday to our beloved First Lady, Mrs. Kim Parker!Her love for those who walk through the doors of The Rock of Central Florida is unconditional! Her love for children is evident every day through Kidz Rock Early Learning Center. She serves our House and our community selflessly, day in and day out. She sees the world through the Father’s eyes and loves people the way He does - tirelessly. The culture of The Rock can be attributed to her anointing. Her purpose coupled with our Visionary’s purpose has created a safe place for people to come as they are, be changed in His perfect timing, and know they are loved unconditionally every step of the way. When she speaks, wisdom flows from the depths of who she is! When she serves, she serves with her whole heart! All of us have been a recipient and a student of her servant leadership.We honor you today, Mrs. Kim! We celebrate the day you were born! You are a gift to all who know you. To know you is to love you! Thank you for selflessly pouring out on us every single day. Your cup is always full and overflowing!May this be your best year yet! Fulfillment of dreams above and beyond all you could ask or think! Celebrate today and know that you are loved and cherished by all who know you, especially by The Rock of Central Florida!Happy Long Life To You! We love you immensely!

And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. Isaiah 60:3

Recently a valuable lesson was taught during a Sunday service by Steve Parker. Three various demonstrations by men of great faith were presented. There were so many incredible things that caught my attention, and one was their rising.

Each man mentioned (Paul, Moses, Simon, Andrew) was a vessel used for the glory of Yahweh. Though some initially had hard hearts or were reluctant to go, it was their “Yes” that gave all glory to the Father. It wasn’t the fear, or the unbelief but rather the moment of faith, of sight, or willingness that brought the greatest glory to the Father. It wasn’t the hesitation or the trepidation, but it was their worship through obedience that brought exaltation to their God. Their will aligned with His will produced the spark that turned into a flame, that turned into a glorious ascension and rising that pointed, in all ways, to the magnificence of the Father.

In our moments of rising in faith and obedience we radiate with the brightness of HIS glory. These are not opportunities that are far and few between, but rather should be daily, and even multiple times a day. Each choice is an opportunity to rise, each decision is a choice to align. When we do it draws others and is now an opportunity for them. It may be seen by one or a few or it may be seen by a whole nation.

My encouragement today, listen to the message in the I Will series titled Change the World. Let it get in you and resonate within. Let that spark in you ignite into a passion to align with Him and give Him your yes. Be the son that rises and runs to Him the moment you hear His voice. Be the demonstration that leads others to His light.

"On the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wondrous works I will meditate." Psalm 145:5

Start your day with worship to The One who created the world around you. The wonder and peace in nature, the sounds of joy and life in your home, the phenomenal beauty of the sky, the brilliant ideas that led to amazing technology, and so, so much more. See the works of His hands and vision in your every day, and meditate on the personal things He has created for you.

Beyond the signs and wonders, meditate on His character and His desire to connect with you. Who He is, not only what He has done, is worthy of our praise and acknowledgment. Let that be genuine in your expression, and keep your eyes open today for majesty and wonder.

When The Bible encourages us to meditate, let us truly take the prompt to give our attention to where it points. In this verse, we have endless opportunities all day to consider, remember, imagine and focus on what's personal and what's universal. This meditation doesn't have to be in a quiet room, correcting your thoughts all day. Instead, allow Heaven and Earth to find their way together in simple, ongoing appreciation. Thank Yahweh and talk to Him, and I promise that you will see Him in more ways today by doing so!

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16

“Let your light shine before others!” What a simple but powerful statement and command. As He was teaching, Jesus directed us to allow our light to shine to others. He is not referring to our human nature or attributes, but the essence of Christ that is in us! In John 8:12, it declares that Jesus is the “Light of the world,” and those who follow Him will have it. You will receive His Spirit, the Holy Spirit that resides in you, Who is the light source within us.So, why did Jesus direct us to “Let your light shine before others?” As Jesus willingly and freely gives His Spirit to those who repent and receive Him as Lord, this Light does not automatically shine to others. You have a choice to make. Some may want their faith to be a private matter, choosing to cover it with a basket. Or you can be obedient and willing and make your faith public! Jesus does not want secret agents but known ambassadors (2 Cor 5:20).I encourage you to take inventory within by asking yourself, what do others see in me? Does my family see His Light through me, do my friends, how about my co-workers? How about the stranger at the grocery store or at the local restaurant, are they able to see His Light through me?I am in no-way advocating “Bible thumping” or a religious agenda. But rather, I’m encouraging us to be genuine, humble and allow His Spirit to be expressed through us to others. When they encounter you, they see something different, they experience something that can only come from the Father!So, as you start your day, have you become a secret agent and covered up His Light? Or are you an open ambassador and letting His light shine? I say, let it shine!!

“For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” Acts 13:47

“Samuel said, ‘Has YHWH as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of YHWH? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.’“ 1 Samuel 15:22 We, as believers often find ourselves trying to be better “Christians” by conforming to First Testament laws as well as modern church laws and traditions to satisfy our religious obligations. What ever happened to a relationship with the God of the universe, YHWH Himself? Many of us were taught by well meaning pastors and teachers that the “Law” was the first requirement given by God to give us opportunity to draw near to Him. Doing all the sacrifices and ritual ceremonies over and over proved to be impossible to keep, which was YHWH’s plan to start with.But the “Law” was not the original way to know God. Looking back to the Garden of Eden, it was relationship driven, where Adam and Eve walked with the Father in the cool of the day and enjoyed life the way it was originally intended. Not until their disobedience by eating of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, was there any NEED for law.So why would we, as believers choose to “work” to gain favor from God, rather than just go to Him as our Father and enjoy His word to us and walk with Him again? So, today as you go about, realize that obedience is NOT a bad word. In fact, obedience is full of life and law is full of death! To obey IS better than sacrifice, as Samuel revealed in the First Testament. Others will respond to you much better if you demonstrate life instead of laying out a bunch of rules to follow. Hear and obey and have a great day!

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,” Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬ ‭ESV‬‬Every single day we will speak to Yahweh about something. Some will pray about something. Many will be shocked at the blessing received. Not because of a very fast blessing, or because it’s exactly what was prayed for. They will be shocked because Yahweh’s blessings provide and exceed what we were expecting. It might not be anything close to what we wanted, but much better than what we desired. This is the God we serve.Today, do not be surprised at the response you receive because of your obedience and love for the father. This is what it is, what it was, and has always been. What we ask for will always be unmatched to what Yahweh wants for us!

Faithful and absolutely trustworthy is He who is calling you [to Himself for your salvation], and He will do it [He will fulfill His call by making you holy, guarding you, watching over you, and protecting you as His own]. 1 Thessalonians 5:24

As we step into new places and facets of the Father, new dimensions and spaces that He is opening to us and inviting us into, trust is required. The space we are stepping into may be dark because the light has not yet arrived. It may be unknown,and we may not be confident in how to navigate it. That is OKAY!

Trust: believe in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of; have faith or confidence in; commit to the safe keeping of

In Hebrew it is defined as: to set one's hope and confidence upon

Trust is not defined as seeing the whole picture to proceed or move into. It is defined as the belief and hope in the One who called you to it, called you to that place, and called you in. It is believing, hopeful, and full of faith in the One who sent you.

This place He is calling us to is a complete immersion in Him, totally and fully. Nothing withheld, no holding back…. If we will step into Him without reservation, lean into Him fearlessly, every facet of who we are, every room and court, every chamber and space, every seat and floor within this temple (YOU) will reflect His glory. There will be no area of your life that you do not see the Son, that you do not see His Spirit, or that you do notsee His fingerprint and DNA. No matter where you look, if you will put full and complete and confident trust in Him, peace will flow at every table and every breath will reflect His, and it will cause a shift within you from all that you have known to all that He is calling you to.

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3Are you striving to find peace in your life? Perhaps your focus is on the wrong thing. Often, when we chase the result, we never find it. We can get stuck in a cycle and become frustrated over time.Let me encourage you today to devote your complete mind, your thoughts, your heart, and your honor to Yahweh and let Him provide the peace you need. He wants to be the only well you go to when you have need. He doesn’t want to be an afterthought or “last resort.” He is jealous for you and wants to bring a peace to your life that NOTHING on this planet can manufacture. Let Yahweh be your focus and watch peace overtake you today!

"Love is patient and kind, never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude. Love isn't selfish or quick tempered. It doesn't keep a record of wrongs that others do. Love rejoices in the truth, but not in evil. Love is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting." 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7

I’ve been considering comparison. We may compare another’s pain to what we’re experiencing or have overcome. If we think our pain is greater, we can become cold and damage a relationship and miss assigned opportunities to minister. If we minimize our challenges because others’ seem worse, then we dismiss areas that need attention or healing. Life is personal, and our mountains and valleys are custom-made and purposed.

Comparing joys has pitfalls too. I’ve learned that when in a hard place, an important key is to rejoice with others. There’s a difference in putting on a happy face and true rejoicing, and that difference may be love and relationship. Steve recently reminded us that blessing isn’t just financial, and richness can be found in every area of life.

Today, I encourage you to own your testimony. Bear witness to what Yahweh has done and is teaching you. Take care not to focus on another’s experience to then look back on your own with a false perspective. What has our great God done in your life? How can you rejoice from a place of love? What is He trying to grow in you? Where can you minister from a pure perspective? Consider deeply today!

The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. Luke 17:5-6We all have dealt with difficult times! We may have received an unfavorable medical report, death of a loved one, loss of a job, an argument with a friend, or maybe just having a bad day. Whatever it may be, every person has gone through, or is going through, something! And in those times, how do you respond? Is it identical to the apostles in this passage? Have you ever asked Jesus to increase your faith as you face a trying time? I know I have.However, the point here is not about receiving more faith. The apostles had faith, and Jesus explained even a small amount of faith can do miracles; faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains (Matthew 17:20). Therefore, His teaching was concentrated on proper placement of faith and not the size of it. Jesus wanted to encourage His apostles to not focus on how much faith they have, but whether they have TRUE faith. A true faith that points to the One who can provide the answer and not on anything else.I recall some years ago, a loved one being afflicted with a terrible medical diagnosis with lifelong disabilities. In my time of need, my time of despair, my time of difficulty, I prayed and turn to my faith in Yahweh. But then I found myself moving my faith toward what the doctors and therapists were saying, and it began to negatively weigh on me. It was not a question about me having great faith, because I did have it, but where was I putting it!!! Jesus is reminding all of us that properly placed faith, regardless of size, will do the extraordinary. In my ordeal, I finally refocused my faith, and I truly experienced the miraculous and answers to my prayers!!!So, as you start your day, consider where your faith is placed. Is it focused on your troubles, or on earthly remedies, or is it directed to Christ? Only you can change it!

Who holds the Church accountable?

Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the Church and our role in the world. It has become a common trend to see people attacking Christianity and challenging the statutes by which we live our lives. Many individuals, as well as congregations, have began to cater to society’s view of morality and righteousness. In order to attract more people to a congregation or not be canceled by peers, Christians have changed their stances, boundaries, and beliefs on what it means to honor God.“It’s 2023, get with the times” “Don’t be a bigot” “Aren’t you supposed to love people?”These are all phrases that we have heard. What I see happening is the Church has let the world become its accountability partner. The role of an accountability partner is to help someone else progress toward a desired goal and hold them accountable to the commitments they made. A Church’s accountability should come from other Spirit filled Churches around them. I’m not just talking about buildings but I mean the Churches that are each individual Son and Daughter of Yahweh God. When we let our counsel come from those who don’t have the same goals as us, didn’t make the same commitments as us, and don’t have their eyes open for the truth, they will not hold us accountable to the will of God but pull us away from His heart’s desire. We are called to be a light to nations, pillars of truth, and responsible to spread the Gospel. We trust in the Father to change hearts and we should lean on one another for counsel and correction. Being challenged by one another is iron sharpening iron and when correction is necessary, it will be made. My encouragement to to my brothers and sisters is to lean on pillars of truth and take your counsel from those striving to honor Yahweh, not those who seek to honor the world.

"Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at his holy mountain; for the Lord our God is holy!" Psalm 99:9

Today, I encourage you to worship Yahweh! He’s more than a resource. He is holy and worthy to be praised!

I want to remind you that if you’re seeing your mountain from far off, or if you’re in the middle of a hard place (or even in a great place), to go beyond asking Yahweh for help or engaging Him in your typical way. Remember how good He is. Consider your many blessings and consider them creatively! Then position yourself at that holy mountain and pour out your adoration of Him. Set aside the currency of your time and bless Him. Speak to Him from your heart. Without requests, a script, or pleading – simple and pure worship. I know that it is a key in this place!

Remember that as you navigate whatever terrain you’re in that He is more than a partner, He is your God. Healing, joy, and encouragement flow from the heart of worship, and as He is blessed, so will you be.

“The angel who spoke to me had a golden measuring rod with which to measure the city and its foundation stones and wall.” Revelation 21:15

As we continue our study and learning of The Mountain, The Valley, The Desert, and The Wilderness at The Rock I considered the ways a rod or a staff is used in these various locations. The Hebrew word is Mattehwhich translates to branch, rod, or staff. It is used as a tool in the natural to help and assist, and by the spirit it represents authority in the hands of the one who holds it. It is also used for measurement and can mark a standard.This past week the scripture above caught my attention. The measurement was to be taken with a “golden measuring rod.” Why gold? Why was it important to mention it was a golden measuring rod? It is important to pay attention to details.Gold has been a sought-after precious metal throughout the ages. It is considered a standard and its uses are widespread. This valuable element is known for its beauty when purified, a conductor of electricity and heat, it is reflective, and malleable. These are the reasons why it was gold.The angel with the golden measuring rod came to measure with what was purified, what was reflective and malleable. He came to measure with what was pure, this was the standard. He came to measure with what was reflective because what is on earth should be a reflection of what is in heaven. He came to measure with what was malleable or pliable to see if what was being measured was fluid and flexible and fashioned in the image of Christ.I ask you to look within today and ask these questions….. are you being fluid and flexible, pliable to the Father’s word? Are your foundations stones laid in Christ? Are your walls and gates aligned with the plumb line? If you answer yes you are set to be a not only a reflection of heaven in the earth, but you are of the same substance- purified and a standard. If your answer is no, hear His voice today. Do not beat yourself up or sink into shame. There is no time for that. Rather set your eyes on the Father, behold and become. Shake off the dust from the former things and step into a new thing.

“Do not remember the former things, or ponder the things of the past. Listen carefully, I am about to do a new thing, now it will spring forth; Will you not be aware of it? I will even put a road in the wilderness, rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:18-19

“It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it.” Ecclesiastes 5:5 How important is your word to you? When you say you will do something, do you follow through with it? Can others rely on your word? Here is some wisdom this week concerning choosing your words carefully and not […]

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 Be strong and courageous, what a mighty command. For many of us, it seems easier said than done. Especially when you are facing opposition, a […]

“Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations. Noah walked with God.” Genesis 6:9 As you start your day today, consider Noah. Yahweh could confide in Noah. He could trust Noah. Noah walked with Yahweh when the rest of life on earth made their sin greater than Him. When everyone else put their sin […]

“Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.” Psalm 34:8 Scripture says that the Lord has a taste. How about you? Let’s say your personality makes you sweet toward others, and you use that trait to draw people to you or your conversation in any given […]

“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10 We are all busy! Whether it be with work, family, the holidays, our pets, the maintenance our vehicles need, keeping up with laundry, or even house chores! Sometimes it feels like the to-do list requires more hours than you have in a day! As you […]

“For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16 As we come into the holiday season, I am reminded of Yahweh God’s plan for the salvation of His people. […]

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3: 1-2 I received wisdom recently that is simple but profound: take your time. As your find yourself on the mountain, or in the valley, desert or wilderness, remember to take your time. Consider your steps, and place them with intention […]

Today is a very special day! It is our Visionary, Steven Lee Parker’s birthday! The Rock of Central Florida celebrates this day! Yahweh gave us His very best when He chose Steven Parker to establish The Rock of Central Florida! To know Steven Parker is to love him! He has dedicated his life to expanding […]

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:31-32 I have observed over the years that harboring unforgiveness toward someone can make you bitter, angry, and unhappy. It eats […]

“I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.” Psalm 34:1 Take a moment today to consider the things Yahweh has done for you, the things you have to be thankful for, and see that He is good! In every season, He is good! He has not forgotten […]

As you start your day today, I encourage you to take a moment and consider what you are thankful for. Tomorrow we celebrate Thanksgiving! It is important to recognize in our own hearts and minds what exactly we are thankful for. Our gratitude should be a personal expression, not just a blanket statement on a […]

“Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,” Ephesians 5:20 Giving thanks sound like such an easy thing to do, but as we all know, it is not. Especially, if you are facing difficulties, challenges or just having a bad day. Who wants to thank God […]

“I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.” Psalm 7:17 As we enter one of my favorite times of year, I believe it is important to remember what we are thankful for. Something my wife has been doing with […]

“For your God YHWH is bringing you into a good land, a land of brooks of waters, of fountains, and of depths coming out in valley and in mountain…” Deuteronomy 8:7 What we are learning at The Rock is invaluable. The series we are in currently is the sound of awakening and vision, and a […]

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God” Ephesians 2:8 “But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.” Ephesians 4:7 Have you ever received something good you did not deserve? That is called grace. Grace […]

“He has qualified us as ministers of a new covenant, not based on what is written but on the Spirit, because what is written kills, but the Spirit gives life.” 2 Corinthians 3:6 Recently, an acquaintance of mine reached out to me regarding a difficult situation we are both experiencing. Our mountains look similar, but […]

“Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it.” Ezra 10:4 It has been said that people just want to know that they are loved. While this is true, I do not believe it is what a person wants most. I would contend that people want to know above […]

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, […]

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters. Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an […]

Don't underestimate or overlook the value of the valleys in your life. They just might be ordained by God.

“When he had entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, appealing to him, ‘Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, suffering terribly.’ And he said to him, ‘I will come and heal him.’ But the centurion replied, ‘Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the […]

“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All God’s people here send their greetings.” 2 Cor. 13: 11-13 The Bible speaks of a very popular greeting during […]

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26 Holy Spirit is so faithful to lead. I am reading a parenting book that I felt Him draw me […]

In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw [in a vision] the Lord sitting on a throne, high and exalted, with the train of His royal robe filling the [most holy part of the] temple. Above Him seraphim (heavenly beings) stood; each one had six wings: with two wings he covered his face, with two wings he covered his […]

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9 Yahweh created us to be workers and to be fulfilled by what our work produces. He wants us to make Him our focus, but this does not mean we are […]

“Not that we dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who are commending themselves. But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding.” 2 Corinthians 10:12 Comparing ourselves to others can lead to two negative results. One being elevating ourselves as better than someone […]

“Show yourself is all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” Titus 2:7-8 The most common way for someone to see Jesus is by meeting […]

Recently I had the joy of having a girl’s day with my daughters. We wanted to do something we have never done so we decided to hop on the Sunrail and take the train down to Winter Park for the afternoon. Besides being quick and easy, and so much fun it is a valuable mode […]

“The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the purposes of His heart to all generations. “ Psalm 33:11 I was getting my son ready for the day and told him that Yahweh made him according to His will and purpose. Have you noticed that explaining a big concept to a child brings things back to a simple […]

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matthew 6:19-20 When you think about this scripture, one could easily interpret […]

“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.” Luke 16:10 We at The Rock of Central Florida just celebrated our anniversary of twenty-three years where we had the opportunity to honor our visionaries Steve and Kim Parker […]

“Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” 1 Timothy 5:17 This Sunday, October 30th, we will celebrate The Rock of Central Florida’s 23rd Anniversary at The Westin Hotel in Lake Mary! The doors will open at 9:30AM and the service will begin at […]

“Honor spill from my bones. Build up, build up…” excerpt from “Reflection” by Kaley Hoffman and Stephanie Bosch. It’s been quite a week so far leading up to The Rock’s 23rd Anniversary Celebration. I’ve learned this week that honor itself is “fluid” and flows from the honoring one to the honored. But, it doesn’t stop […]

I Give My “Heaviest Honor” to you! Steve and Kim Parker, to you both I give my “Heaviest Honor.” I choose to use the word heavy because it is how I feel. The Hebrew language compares honor or Kavod – to weight. I love this because when words such as love and respect and […]

“If the LORD delights in us, He will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that flows with milk and honey.” Numbers 14:8 This week at the Rock of Central Florida, we are celebrating twenty-three years of an active and growing ministry. We celebrate and thank God for His faithfulness, […]

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” Rom. 12:10 It is extremely important that we as believers understand the power of honoring those in authority over us, especially in the church. Honor isn’t something we strive for, nor should it be sought after as a “reward”, but it is earned […]

Faithfulness is the womb from which blessing is born.

What does it mean to love God and how do we do it? Part four of this series.

The story of Jehoshaphat is a lesson in loving Yahweh. If you are going to love him, love him all the way.

We make loving God more difficult than it is. Everyone can love God the way he wants to be loved.

We are all important in God's Kingdom. What is my part in his design?

Why is it important to know that Yahweh created us to have his perspective on time?

What we do matters.

Ministry from Archie Phillips

Living the kind of life so the Father says "in you I am well pleased."

To be Christ's is to know him intimately. John 6 gives a clear picture of what that means.

To Be His is to move in the places he moved in.

Everlasting to everlasting means what?

To be Christ's is to reflect His character and nature.

To be His is to trust Him when understanding is not present.

To be Christ's is to live in the same spirit of hope that he did.

To be Christ's is to be passionate about what he is passionate about.

Celebrating our fathers together as the gift they are to us.

We have a story to tell. We are a bridge, not a sword.

People matter and wisdom and knowledge both assist us in reaching those without Christ.

The gospel is present to change us and reunite us with the Father. We have a choice.

What to do about sharing Christ when doubt is present within me.

The boundaries we set too often get in the way no matter how good they look.

Celebrating the mothers who have birthed, raised, and celebrated every moment of our lives. They are God's gift to us all.

What is our responsibility when it comes to introducing the gospel to those outside the walls of our church building?

As we rejoice in the resurrection of Christ do we understand how that event empowered us?

Christ came with authority showing us how to move victoriously through life.

Christ understood what it meant to be a son and what it meant to be a brother. He brought that to us.

Christ came with a level of humanity that demonstrates even as man we can still honor God.

He gives us a choice hoping we learned from Him when He chose us.

Christ came full of everything we could ever need to be his heir.

Christ demonstrated hope in his coming.

Joy is available for every person.

Christ demonstrated forgiveness and expects us to be good learners.

The lessons of Abraham are still valuable today.

What is the true meaning of the Prodigal Son story in scripture. This teaching exposes the deeper meaning.

A teaching on the hidden message within the first miracle Jesus performed at the wedding at Cana.

How many things do we call dead that are just waiting to have faith attached to them?

When we look past what the eye first sees, scripture can expose truths that are worth a deeper look.

Bridges span the gap between where we once were and lead us to where we are going. This series will focus on five bridges that accomplish this in the Kingdom of God.

Not everyone feels accepted by others. How does one overcome the feeling of rejection and arriving at a place of acceptance?

What does it mean to “hope through the crowd?” Archie Phillips III expounds on the meaning of hope as it was meant to be.

Understanding what submission is can completely change how you mature as a person.

Bridges span the gap between where we once were and lead us to where we are going. This series will focus on five bridges that accomplish this in the Kingdom of God.

Bridges span the gap between where we once were and lead us to where we are going. This series will focus on five bridges that accomplish this in the Kingdom of God.

Bridges span the gap between where we once were and lead us to where we are going. This series will focus on five bridges that accomplish this in the Kingdom of God.

What actually happens when we do it the way Yahweh instructed and get past our own fears, doubts, and pride? Yahweh loves to honor His word. How can we give Him the opportunity to do just that?

What actually happens when we do it the way Yahweh instructed and get past our own fears, doubts, and pride? Yahweh loves to honor His word. How can we give Him the opportunity to do just that?

We do not just build ourselves and our own temple, but we are responsible for building up others. What does that look like? Why would we do that? What is the cost?

Building by Yahweh's blueprint.

If we can see failures as an education instead of a final product we can change the world.

Welcome Tom and Denise Weichart. God's ways are above our ways and He does all things well.

Join us as we engage the Father and position ourselves to become the witness and demonstration we were created to be.

Butch Ainsworth is the visionary and senior minister of The Rock of Greater Burlington and we looking forward to receiving from his ministry. Join us and invite someone to be with you.

The power of one to change the course of many is indisputable.

The power of one to change the course of many is indisputable.

The power of one to change the course of many is indisputable.

Coming off the cross of shame.

Discover the truth about the freedom we can receive through Christ.

Discover the truth about the freedom we can receive through Christ.

Have you ever wondered what trees might say if they could speak of what they have seen?

Have you ever wondered what trees might say if they could speak of what they have seen?

Have you ever wondered what trees might say if they could speak of what they have seen?

If trees could talk, what would they have to say?

Who are YOU?

There are people all around you waiting to hear what you have to say about the Kingdom of God.

There are people all around you waiting to hear what you have to say about the Kingdom of God.

There are people all around you waiting to hear what you have to say about the Kingdom of God.

Do morals still matter in the church and to God? Can they be defined?

Do morals still matter in the church and to God? Can they be defined?

Testimonies of His magnificence.

Part two of the His Magnificence series.

How often do we consider the magnificence of God? Probably not often enough. He is literally in everything around us. Nothing that is, is without Him.

Justice served is Yahweh's hand on our behalf.

Judgment is God's business but He blesses us to seek justice in our lives.

He made me His temple. His vision and expectation of me is clear.

Understanding the difference between baggage that is a weight and baggage that becomes a tool for the work of the Kingdom.

You are the Temple of God and you have been Custom Made.

What do we bring to the Temple of God?

Judgment is not our responsibility, but we do have the authority to administer justice to our circumstances.

Saying what we will do for the Kingdom of God must become what we actually do for the Kingdom of God.

Before we can get outside the walls of religion we must first get outside of ourselves.

What are we really hearing?

God gave darkness an equal measure of the day as He gave light. Interesting.

Do not enter WITHOUT A VISION for tomorrow.

Answering the TO BE HONEST question as it relates to being a follower of Christ.

Searching for what you were purposed for will get you exactly that.

Where the REAL WORK happens!

Can you be counted on when you are entrusted with a Yahweh sent moment?

An open discussion about the "kind of people" the church accepts. Are we guilty of something we should be free from?

The Way of the Kingdom of God, the Gospel, in raw form requires the modern church to peel back many layers. We can.

The Hem and the Hand is a closer look at the relationship between Christ's hem and the hand that touched it. How does this relate to you and me?

The most important part of the miracles of Christ might surprise you. Can you see what He saw?

Is the HEALING OIL something you hold in your hand or is it YOU?

What does it look like to go from a life that did not include God to a life that is all about God?

Instead of asking why me? We should be shouting "watch what I do from here!"

Holy Spirit is not something to be afraid of or misunderstood. He is the part of God that helps us interpret our relationship with God.

What is the church and why do people go? A continuation of the series THAT KINGDOM THING.

Why do churches do what they do?

What does it mean to be saved?

Don't miss the moments sent to grow and mature you.

A voice to follow.

An interactive men’s ministry discussion on men and marriage.

What if no one followed Moses, Jesus, or Paul or you?

The ladies ministry of The Rock.

What is gained by following someone who is following Christ?

What does it look like to follow someone who is following Christ?

Living a lawless life isn't a life without order. It is simply a life that is dependent upon a relationship with God. A relationship built on faith and trust.

Provision has been made for the restoration of lawless living as was the original intent of Yahweh God for mankind. What is the provision that he gave for restoration?

When was the last time you understood a scripture, or truth with greater depth than before?

Lawless living is what we were created for. The counterfeit of that is opposed to God.

Happy Father's Day. A Tale of Two Father's is a reflection of a journey of discovery.

The second Adam was sent to redeem man. What does this redemption look like?

Why does man continue to fall back on the first Adam rather than press into the second Adam?

Our journey in Christ that takes us from a first Adam nature to a second Adam nature.

What is THE COST for us to live our life FOR THE LOVE OF GOD?

Loving God is all about honor and honor is demonstrated in how we respond and react to his heart.

We briefly explore the relationship between God and Jesus and the similarities to fathers and sons today.

Loving something or someone often inspires or compels us to do extraordinary things.

A livestream of The Rock ladies ministry with Kim Parker and Jenni Koerner.

Yahweh will always give us the opportunity to become new.

At different times in history we have been given an opportunity for a do over. How has that worked out?

The third part of the series WE THE CHURCH, although it continues everyday in the lives of each one who understands the church is not the building.

Stories of God's faithfulness.

The “churches” of The Rock bring their demonstration.

Until we accept the next, we are destined to hope for what will not come.

Since then...the moment that leads somewhere else...we have done what?

Generations are a season of time from which we learn needed life lessons UNTIL we grow into the next generational season. The UNTIL cycle is perpetual.

Recognizing the Until moments he gives us is his invitation to receive his promises.

A continuation of "What You See" of the UNTIL series.

If you only see Adam, you will only get Adam. If you see Christ, you will get Christ.

The word UNTIL is a bridge from one idea to another. When one idea is complete the other takes over. How does that impact you and me?

The ministry of Archie Phillips.

The promises of God included a trade into you and me that wasn't free at all. Listen to learn.

If we can only be silent, He will take care of the battle.

He promised provision for every need. Trust him.

The promises our Heavenly Father has made to us were not made without intent to fulfill. He said it, and He will do it.

Part one of the PROMISES series. He said it and He will do it. Are we of His nature?

The work of Christ in all of us to change us into glorified sons and daughters.

Believing for what you cannot see. Walking with a king inspires vision and faith.

The Kingdom of God is under assault and believers should be a part of that.

Are we positioned to walk with a king? A message by Gaston Glasgow.

Jesus Christ was preparing people to assist Him in building a Kingdom that would last.

Jesus Christ demonstrated that getting in the trenches with people isn't just about convenience.

The relationships Christ formed were unlikely and unexpected as one considers his intentions.

What does that mean and to whom was he speaking?

Celebrating 20 years of ministry in Central Florida.

An attitude and heart for serving others is part of the foundation of the Kingdom of God.

How do I live out the truth of the Gospel?

You have something to tell. What's holding you back? (Part of the Spread the Word series)

To do "greater things than these" we must be willing to search out what we don't know about Jesus Christ.

When visited by an angel don't miss the moment of truth.

A word from Kaleigh Parker about becoming explorers and releasing the charge God has given to us.

The Kingdom of God is calling out to those who are tired of religion's Hell point of view.

Joining heaven and earth together includes inviting the opportunity for all parts of worship to flow into one worship.

Accepting God's invitation to the table He has prepared for you and me. Relationship happens around the table where truth is shared.

The second part of the series GETTING OUT OF THE WEEDS. This message addresses the opportunity for each of us to allow Holy Spirit to stir us past what is the present relationship we have with Christ. Weeds are a hinderance to our promised land.

Taking personal responsibility to get the weeds out of you or get you out of the weeds.

Why do we sow or give offerings? Part of the series "That's Why."

Part of the series "That's Why." Answering the question why did God give humankind a free will?

Answering the question why we LIVE in the THAT'S WHY series.

Kaley Hoffman shares how the love of Yahweh empowers us see His goodness.

The lack deception will keep your cup from running over.

Part one of the series "My Cup Runneth Over."

To ascend the hill of the Lord one must first nurture the kind of relationship that allows them to become one with God.

The house my spirit lives in is a temple. How do I care for what I have been entrusted with?

Understanding the connection between faith and relationship.

We continue the series "Taking God at His Word." Was the Bible inspired by Holy Spirit to be an end or a beginning? We try to answer that question.

Accepting the Bible as inspired by Holy Spirit and infallible. It is life to those who receive it, but there is more.

Trusting Holy Spirit and giving him the final answer in all things pertaining to life is God's plan for our relationship with him.

Trust Holy Spirit for the Crazy Real until it becomes the Expected Real.

Only Holy Spirit can help you see what is beyond what's right in front of you.

The evidence of Holy Spirit is found in more than just nine gifts. One can possess gifts without evidence of having those gifts.

Holy Spirit our helper. How does he fulfill the role of the helper in our lives?

Holy Spirit works in great and small ways.

The promise of the Holy Spirit.

Holy Spirit was sent to you and me. Receiving Him will change your life.