What Exactly Does Breakthrough Look Like?

Breakthrough.  What exactly does it look like?  Well, I know what it  doesn't look like- or maybe a better way to say it is like this-  I feel like I know when I am NOT experiencing a breakthrough!  I am coming to realize that I have limited thinking, yes- even mindsets!, concerning experiencing a breakthrough.

Let me back up a bit and explain.  According to the dictionary, the word  breakthrough means :

An act of overcoming or penetrating an obstacle
• An increase of knowledge or understanding
• An offensive thrust that penetrates and carries beyond a defensive line.

Did you notice that you can receive breakthrough whenever you "hear the truth" or "gain knowledge and understanding?"  This is why the Word says we perish for lack of knowledge.  (See Hosea 4:6).  The original word for "perish" means to be "destroyed, cut down, fail (or be ) undone."  Dear one, whenever we don't understand the finished work of Christ and that the price has been paid for us to receive open heavens and breakthroughs the enemy will continue to cause us to be "undone!" He goes about as a roaring lion seeking whomever he might devour.  But if we know the truth- the truth sets us free from the devourer!

We Begin at the Finish Line

It's important to remember that we don't start off our race at the starting point.  No way!  We begin every race and every battle at the finish line.  At the Christ, due to the shed blood of Jesus, we have received an inheritance as being a "sons" of God.  When we were born again we received the fullness of salvation which involves not only being saved but also healed, delivered, provision and all that heaven has to offer!  Please take some time and go back to my blog entitled  Straight Talk From Sandie Freed. This particular blog will help you cycle out of your seasons of hopelessness and despair.  Also, I encourage each of you to read my book  Power in the Blood: Claiming Your Spiritual Inheritance because it teaches more on the finished work of Christ.
 

Be One That Overcomes!
 

It's important to God that we overcome- it's important to you also!  Know that the enemy may be attempting to defend his position but you are part of an offensive thrust against the enemy!  My recent book,  Faith After Failure:  Reconnecting with Your Destiny would be great to read for a jump-start into  victory.  In this book I discuss how to get past our past and how to overcome hopelessness, insecurity, generational issues, etc. that would attempt to steal our future.

Be empowered today. You are already breaking through the enemy's blockades because:

1. You have gained more understanding
2. You have been empowered with truth to overcome
3. You know that you are promised victory due to the Cross
4. You have the ability to overcome because you are a son of the Father
5. You begin at the Finish line- your victory is sealed!

This is the season to be thankful.  Let's be thankful for the Cross... that one thing will break us out of  hopelessness and despair. Our today's and tomorrows are full of hope... because of Jesus and His finished work!

There is A Reason That God Is Giving You Dreams!

I was raised to believe that God does not speak through dreams.  I'm so blessed that I know differently today. For those of you who believe that God does speak through dreams, please take a moment and recall the life of Joseph. 

Joseph was given some really awesome dreams as a young man.  But, when he told his brothers about his dreams they got really upset!   He told them about dreaming of bundles of wheat, the sun, the moon and 11 stars bowing before him (take a moment and read Genesis 37:5-10).  Even his father, Jacob, rebuked him.  No one liked the idea of Joseph being positioned above them.  I would have probably been upset also if I were one of Joseph's family! But later his father reconsidered the entire matter. 

I believe that when God speaks to us through dreams we need to  both "consider the matter," and at times even "ponder" them.   I have had some really interesting dreams... but imagine having dreams like Joseph's!  In Psalm 105:19b it says that "...the word of the Lord tried him" until Joseph's dreams actually came to pass.  I believe that many of our dreams are "trying us" just as they did Joseph. 

Having God-given Dreams

Our God given dreams will be tested and tried, just as Joseph's did him.  Yet, if God gave you a dream then know He will bring it to pass!  The word "tried" is a Hebrew word that has a very interesting meaning.  Some of the words used to define being "tried" are " purged," "cast." "refine," "(make)pure," and "purge away."  When observing the full translation as to how dreams might "try" us we can easily conclude by this definition that it is similar to a goldsmith purifying metals and refining them with intense heat.  In other words, Joseph's dreams purified his heart and motives and he was being refined by the hand of God until his time came to fulfill his dreams.

When I think about God's timing the story of Joseph encourages me.  How?  Well, I'll just bet that you have some dreams also that have not come to pass.  Maybe, like myself, you have tucked away deep in your heart several promises God has spoken through dreams.  Don't be discouraged!  Know that God is refining you and preparing you for a "suddenly!"  Yes, suddenlies do happen.  Just like Joseph- in prison one day and in the palace the next- your dreams will come to pass!

God's Intentions Through Dreams

There are various reasons why God gives us dreams.   In the above paragraphs you read about how the timing of the fulfillment of a dream is meant to purify us and prepare us.  Another very important reason that God gives us dreams is to reveal the condition of our own hearts. If you recall, Daniel told King Nebuchadnezzar that God was giving him dreams to reveal the king's pride and to save his soul from the pit. (Read Job 33:14-18).

It's Time to Know the Truth About Spiritual Warfare

There is much written about spiritual warfare.  However some are myths and some are spiritual truths.  In order to walk in complete victory we must examine these, spiritually discern them and go to the Word of God for the fullness of revelation. 

There Really IS A Devil!

Before we go further in this quick journey let me assure you that there really is a devil, and he is the reason we have so much spiritual warfare.I have written over ten books that directly name the enemy, the enemy's manifestations and his plans to kill steal and destroy.  However, I do, in no way, look for a demon behind every bush!  Again, let me assure you that the devil is real.  Though he is not simply a biblical type of poetic image- as some believe. 

Satan (known as the devil)  has limited power.  He does  not know everything you are thinking and he cannot do anything he desires.  He cannot read your mind- only God knows your thoughts. ( See Ezekiel 11:5 NASB).  He does not have the same powers and attributes as our God.  I am amazed at how many Christians believe that the enemy is all-knowing and all-powerful.  Believers, that is simply not true!  Actually we give the enemy way too much credit!  In fact, real spiritual warfare is keeping our mind on Christ and what He has accomplished at the cross. More on that in a bit.

Yes, the enemy can make subtle suggestions to our minds and invade our thought patterns with his destructive lies- but he is not all knowing. He is not a mind reader- no way!  Our God is omniscient and all knowing- Satan certainly is not.Think about this for a moment.  If the devil knew that Jesus would gain such a victory at the Cross he would not have schemed to put him there!  (See 1 Corinthians 2:8). 

As I stated earlier, Satan is not all-powerful either. If he were, he would never allow you to receive Jesus as your personal Savior!    But Satan  is your adversary, a liar, a thief and he wishes to devour you.  (See 1 Peter 5:8, John 8:44).    Neither is our enemy omnipresent- meaning that he is everywhere all the time! Only God is omnipresent.  Satan does, however, have many different demons who attack us.  It may seem as if Satan himself were reaping havoc at one particular time but more likely, it was one of his demons.  Satan cannot be everywhere all of the time- but God can!  We need to quit giving Satan so much power- reel in our thoughts and remember how big our God is! 

Satan Once  Had a Measure of Power

Satan was stripped of his power at the Cross.  Colossians 2:15 reminds each of us that demonic principalities and powers were destroyed when Jesus was crucified at Calvary! Yes!  Jesus destroyed Satan's power.  Satan can only walk about "like" a roaring lion...he can roar but not with the authority that Jesus, the Lion of Judah has!

Whenever you approach spiritual warfare, you must remember these specific truths.  We must all enter into a battle with our enemy knowing that the battle has been won by Christ at the Cross.  If we do not do this, we are approaching a battle in our own strength. We have no power to defeat the enemy  except by the power of the Cross.  If we will remember this main point- we will take the first step into experiencing victory!  The victory is ours because of the shed Blood of Jesus.  Jesus has given us the victory!

The Devil is a Liar

 This is another spiritual truth- the devil is a liar.  He would have you believe you don't already have the victory.  Dear one, the enemy wants to wear you out.  How can he do this?  By causing you to believe that you don't have what you already have!  Ephesians 1:3 reminds us that we have already been blessed ..." with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ."    This means Christ paid the price already (shed His Blood at Calvary) for you to be blessed!

Find Out if Your are Being Vexed by the Enemy!

Vexation.  What is it?  How do I know that I am experiencing it?  These are questions that need answers.   I have been studying this subject for several years, and in fact, I have written about vexation in one of my latest books,  The Jezebel Yoke.   In this blog I will get straight to the point concerning the meaning of vexation and the evil demonic powers behind it. If you have been experiencing any of this it is highly possible that you have been vexed by the enemy:

• Feeling like you're at the "end of your rope!"
• Inability to concentrate and confused
• Feeling intense pressure
• Feeling as if you are under some type of "witchcraft" assignment
• Targeted by the enemy
• Struggling with manipulation and control
• Feeling oppressed
• Feeling cramped, (as if you are closed off from destiny), limited and cut-off
• Feeling bound up and unable to break free
• Loss of vision
• Battling a death structure
• Unable to get past your past

If you are experiencing any of this keep reading!  The Lord wants you to possess your Promised
Land and experience freedom!


Demonic Possession


Vexation in the New Testament makes reference to demonic "possession."  It is this writers opinion that a Christian cannot be completely "possessed" by the devil. However, I strongly believe that a Christian can need deliverance from a demonic stronghold or influence.   If you recall, Jesus even asked Peter how Satan had found an entrance to his heart.  Yes, even though Peter was a follower of Christ, he was still influenced by a demonic presence. We are in a season where we need to check our hearts and repent if we have opened a door to demonic opposition.  We often open doors through the  eye gate (not being cautious what we allow our natural eyes to behold),  and the ear gate (not being protective of what we listen to). 


Vexation is also linked with territorial spirits of lawlessness because, as I documented in my book, vexation can affect large masses of people.  So mobs of rioting and uprisings are often connected to demonic spirits which cause a vexation in others.

The Reason for Dry Seasons

Exhausted, frustrated, disappointed and depressed? I can relate....been there-done that!.  Let me assure you that I have experienced a "dry season"...a season of desolation.  It is no fun.  During my time in the desert (I will use the words desert and dry season interchangeably because, to me, they are the same)  I was convinced that God had deserted me in the desert!  Notice the word "desert" in the word "deserted?"  Of course to believe this was to believe a lie- God NEVER leaves us!  However, when we go through dry season and  we experience drought,, barrenness and yes, , even, famine, we are often vulnerable to the seductive lies of the enemy that say:

1.  You have done something wrong and God is punishing you by causing you to experience this dry season.
2. He led you to the desert and now He has deserted you.  You cannot trust Him!
3. You are in a completely hopeless situation!
4. Your circumstances will never change!
5. Shame on you!  You've been in the desert too long!  You should have been out by now!

Believer, when you are in a place of hopelessness every conversation will have a negative conclusion with an exclamation point! In other words, crisis abounds during a dry season.   Let's face it- we've  all experienced a dry season.  But why do they occur?

The Reason For Dry Season


 If you recall, God told Israel that the way He chose to lead them (through the desert) was "...not too difficult" for them (see Deut 30:11).  Yes, dear reader, God chose to lead his children into the desert.  The reason why is this- he was protecting them from their enemies.  Plus, and this is equally as important, He desired to use the desert as a catalyst that would motivate his people to look to Him for all of their needs.  His heart was to win over their hearts. If  you recall, Israel was continually faced with a need for a miracle while in the wilderness.  God desired that they look to Him, in faith, for the solution rather than murmur and complain.  Ouch!  How often have we murmured and complained and all the while God is just waiting for us to pray and ask Him for the solution.  Yet- our mouths abort the blessings!

Believer, a desert experience is not a punishment from God. It's unfortunate that many people have preached this incorrectly.  Let me be blunt; God is not mad at us-He is mad about us! His love for us is never-ending. Ephesians 3:18 encourages us to "...grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ." (NIV). 

 Precious believer, I believe that many times  God leads us to a desert experience  to draw us unto Himself.  A desert experience is just another way to explain a dry season.  In the natural we experience four seasons-spring, summer, fall and winter.  I love the spring whenever the trees begin to bud, flowers bloom and hummingbirds buzz around North-Central Texas (where I live!).  Summer in Texas is very hot.  Many times we experience drought because of lack of rain.  I suppose that would be a dry season- when there is no rain! 

Are You Worn Out? Find Out Some Reasons Why!

Believer, I recently had an alarming dream about the Antichrist spirit.  In the dream there was an assignment against all believers, especially against the five fold ministry. The dream alarmed my spirit and the need to alert others that this spirit has evil intents to weaken us and even attack our strengths. (More on that in a bit).  In this blog I will briefly share how the Antichrist attacks  us and our minds.  However,  please be on the look-out for a future article on internet for more information on my dream. I will attempt to alert you concerning any upcoming articles in which I more fully expose my dream.

 Believer, let me first say this- don't allow an Antichrist spirit to cause you to fear.  Since I wrote my recent book,  Conquering the Antichrist Spirit, Discerning and Defeating the Seducer that Binds Believers Today  (you may click on the book tab to hear more and order through our book store) I was alarmingly surprised as to how little people really understood this evil spirit.  In fact, even more were afraid to discuss it as if it were a type of  end-time mystical demon with unlimited powers.   It's so true..many believers feel threatened by this spirit- but we shouldn't! Why not?  Because the Word states that we have the mind of Christ.  Read on- you're about to be empowered with revelation!

Are You Worn-Out?

God chose the prophet Daniel to reveal the hidden mysteries of the courts of heaven.  In Daniel 7:9 it reveals how Daniel watched thrones put in place and how the Ancient of Days- God- set down to judge.  Daniel watched as the Almighty judge of the universe took His seated position to judge the evil influence upon the earth- the Antichrist influence- Satan himself or any type of demonic opposition that set itself in a lofty position to wear out the saints of God.Yes- the enemy targets us to "wear us out. However, God has already judged this evil influence!There is no need to fear.  But we need to know the plan of the enemy so that we can be on guard.

Straight Talk with Dr. Sandie- It's time to Conquer the Enemy That Steals Your Harvest!

Believer- welcome again to my Blog site! 

I feel that I need to get straight to the point because of the seriousness of this message.  So, please allow me just talk to you really straight- The enemy wants to steal your blessings!

 

We are in a "season of seeing," and therefore our eyes are being opened more to the truths of God and hidden mysteries are being revealed.  I have been blogging and writing various articles with fresh revelation needed for present breakthrough.  One of the topics I feel needs to be brought to the forefront concerns the Midianite spirit that steals our harvest.

If you recall, it was the Midianites that continually stole the harvests of the Israelites.  When we study Judges 6 we get an idea of how this evil spirit plots to steal our harvest and breakthroughs also. Please take some time and study this passage.  Sadly, God's people were hiding in caves and other places in complete fear and terror of the Midianites! Are we the same?  By this I mean are we in fear?  Fearing God will not provide or protect us in these oppressive times?

 

Many times our enemy will wait until the time of harvest to implement strategies of devastation and lack.  Just as the Midianite spirit stole from Gideon and his family- the same enemy devises a plan to eat up our assetts, blessings and various breakthroughs.

Maybe you can relate to things like this:

• Just before you get promotions they get stolen from you. 
• Every summer there is not enough money to take a vacation as a family- even though you saved for the trip.
• Every year your money is spent for things unexpected and you experience lack.
• Every Christmas there is trauma, sickness or lack of needed finances to enjoy the holiday.
• Every time of harvest gets interrupted with tragedy and loss.

5 Steps to Conquer Fear

Fear.  Ugh!  Are you like me- So weary of how it attempts to take over?  Think about it a minute-  if given place, it will consume our  thoughts and emotions.  It has taken quite a bit of discipline for me  to tame it-yet, it is similar to a bad penny as it keeps showing up! Over the years I have  learned several ways to keep fear at  halt! - meaning keeping it from a complete take-over.

What do I mean by take over?  Well, all of us have (at times) wavering faith. Many times it first appears with a fearful thought.   At least, that has been my observation and personal experience. I have heard it said for years that fear is the opposite of faith.  I've come to believe differently and have concluded that  unbelief is the opposite of faith.  We will discuss unbelief in a later post.  as it deserves more individual attention.  (So, stay with me and watch for my blogs- I intend to expose the stronghold of unbelief soon!)  For now, precious believer, let's remain focused on steps to conquer fear.

The Opposite of Fear
A quick dictionary search states that some of the antonyms of fear are: assurance, boldness, self confidence, courage,  fortitude and (of course!) fearlessness.   I believe it is safe to say that when fear is present, we lack each of these.  I know, for myself, whenever I am fearful I lack courage to move forward.  I am the most fearful whenever I am moving into the "unknown."  Maybe you can relate.

Key to Locking Out A Python Spirit

Need a key to lock out a python spirit from your life? How about your business, family or even your ministry? Dear believers, please hear me- the python spirit is real. It's time for the Body of Christ to wake up to the reality that there really are demonic spirits that oppose us. Believe it or not, I don't enjoy overemphasizing the work of Satan. But I must admit, spiritual discernment is one of my strongest giftings- so I am choosing not to deny how God has gifted me.

We have a real enemy. In the Book of Revelation, John exposes him as an old serpent who deceives the whole world. (See Rev: 12:9). Isn't it interesting that this serpent spirit first gained entrance in the Garden of Eden? Why did he manifest as a snake? What is the significance between Satan and a serpent?

Manifestations of Serpent Spirits

There are different types of serpents just as there are different manifestations of evil spirits. When looking at serpent spirits, we have to study closely the way they operate to determine how to perform spiritual warfare to defeat them.

There are some snakes that are more venomous than others, just as there are some demonic spirits that are more powerful than other spirits.Certain snakes kill with venom- yet the python is different. The python is unique as it lies in wait for an opportune time to strike. Its bite is not fatal- but it's squeeze is! The python is set on seeking out one thing- our breath! It will first bite and then slowly wrap itself around its victim to squeeze the life out. Eventually it suffocates its prey and then the python has its meal!

The Symbols of the Holy Spirit

Breath, air, and wind are all symbolic of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, the enemy is attempting to destroy the different manifestations of the Holy Spirit in your life. The python hates the breath of its prey- so does the demonic python spirit! The enemy seeks to squeeze the Holy Spirit completely out of us-our personal lives, our families, businesses and churches.

A Python Spirit Opposes Your Breakthrough!

Dear Believer,

How would you describe this season in your life?  Hard? Challenging?  Maybe even "difficult"  at times?  If you have been like me, you have experienced some "difficult" times lately.  It has been prophesied that this year would be a year of breakthrough and open doors.  Yet, many of us have felt as if our faith has wavered and at times not even sure that we can finish the race! Let me encourage you right now- The Lion of the Tribe of Judah is guarding your threshold and breakthrough!  However, it is up to us to use our weapon of warfare to defeat the powers that attempt to oppose us!

Just recently The Elijah List posted one of my articles on "Crossing Over the Threshold of Open Doors."  I encourage you to read it as I believe it will encourage you.  However, for the sake of this particular blog- I wish to re-identify the spirit of python that opposes our breakthrough during this season.

Dream of a Python

Recently, I had a dream of a python snake that would wrap itself around believers as they attempted to go through open doors.  Of course, this snake was a serpent spirit, used by Satan to hinder us.

  This evil spirit would attempt to weaken it's victim by squeezing the life and breath out of it's body.  This spirit caused much fear, anxiety and weakness (both spiritual and physical), as it would attempt to hold onto us and put the "squeeze" on us!  The main attempt was to keep us from moving past our past and experiencing God's fullness.  

 Believer- listen up- the enemy does not want you to believe God for your breakthrough.  He desires to weaken your faith by creating circumstances in you life that are completely opposite of what God has promised you. Allow me to assure you of this important point-  your land of promise, your open door, awaits your arrival and crossing over, but the enemy does not like the fact that you are at a threshold of great, great breakthrough.

           

More on The Python Spirit

            In Greek, the term used for divination and witchcraft is "python." It is connected to a word meaning "to twist."  A python is a large and muscular snake that will "twist" itself around its prey and kill it by squeezing or constricting until it suffocates. This spirit squeezes life out of hope, breakthroughs, finances, passion,  and lives.  It 'constricts' us to the point that we are unable to move forward into our future.  As it constricts us, we will feel many restraints which attempt to contain us in old patterns. 

How to Battle the Python

Of course, we need to bind this spirit and make him loose his ungodly hold upon us.  But there's more.  In my last blog post I discussed "passion."  Well, the spirit of python will also squeeze out every bit of passion you have for the Lord!  If you have lost passion, maybe you're battling a python spirit!  And when python is defeated our passion for God returns.  Is it any wonder that python wants to keep us from going through God's open doors?  Think about it- abundance awaits us on the other side of the threshold.  That means we also have MORE power over the enemy when we cross over.

What is Your Normal Spiritual Temperature?

Normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees.  But what is a normal spiritual temperature?  And, do we desire to just remain "normal" in our walk with the Lord?  Allow me to ask you a question:  What's your spiritual thermometer registering?  Could you give testimony that you are passionately pursuing His presence?  I have to admit, I've been so busy with "stuff," that I don't seem to stop enough to just rest in His presence.  Yet, I am completely knowledgeable concerning this fact:  if I don't spend time with God, my passion falters.  And passion, my precious friend, is what keeps us spiritually sharpened!

Return to Our First Love
Have you ever been in love?  If you have, then you remember the passion.  Passion and love just go together.  It's really that simple.  However, when it comes to whether or not we have lost passion for God,  we must first consider whether or not we have truly placed our love for Him as our  first priority.  Maybe it's time to return to our first love.

So how do we get off track in our passion?  Let me be blunt- are we in love with the satisfaction we feel when we succeed in our godly assignments or are we pursuing those godly assignments because we love Him?  The two motivations are worlds apart. 

 Let me share something from my own personal experience. I have realized that I lose passion for God whenever  I am worn out!  Yes, it's possible to experience "burn out" as we are actively responding to His call.  Whether we are ministers in the marketplace or ministers in a church pulpit- we all have a godly assignment to fulfill. The fuel that will keep our tanks full is-bottom line-passion.
And passion is derived from love.

The Church in Ephesus
In Rev. 2:1-4 we read where Jesus addresses the church in Ephesus.  He acknowledges the fact that they had been very busy....laboring...(v.2) and yet in the midst of all their religious activity they had forsaken their first love.  (Meaning their passion for God was gone!).  As we continue to read we find that it was very important to God that they repent and change.  Repentance does not mean that we make things right with God because He is angry with us!  Nor is He waiting with a big stick to smack us because we are bad!  No way!  Repentance basically means "change the way you think." And, repentance is not all about "turning away" from something as much as it is to "torn toward" something.

Courage to Demonstrate the Supernatural

Discouraged because you aren't experiencing the supernatural?  Take a minute and picture yourself praying for someone who is lame and suddenly he/she begins leaping and jumping!  Let's think of another scenario.  Imagine yourself receiving a phone call from a child asking for you to pray for "Mommy" who was just diagnosed with cancer.  You begin to pray..."Lord, heal this child's mother.  I pray for you to touch her body and I curse cancer  to its roots and command all cancer to leave her body." You hang up the phone with great faith, believing that God is answering your prayer.

 One week later you receive another phone call from "Mommy." She is weeping as she speaks.  "Thank you so much for praying for me!" she said, "The doctor did another sonogram and the cancerous tumor is completely gone! My daughter told me that she phoned you and that you prayed for a miracle.  Thank you! Thank you so much!"

Courage  for the Supernatural

Believer, let's review what Jesus commissioned us to do.  He has commissioned believers to heal the sick, cast out devils, raise the dead and to preach the gospel. (see Matthew 10:7). Problem is- do we have the courage to step out with faith and pray for others and witness the supernatural? I believe courage will arise whenever we truly understand the importance of signs and wonders.  Power comes when we trust in the power of God and not the wisdom of man.  I have written several blogs that discuss the fact that doctrines of man and the traditions of man rob us of demonstrating God's power on earth.(Read some of my previous blogs for more on those subjects).

Things beyond our understanding and our control are released through our obedience.  Knowing our commission from heaven will empower us with greater faith.  God has given us all we need to step out in faith and demonstrate His raw power on this earth. He has designed the Church to be a living expression of Heaven.  We are wired to have a continuous flow of supernatural action.  Every believer has the privilege of being a part of someone's miracle or someone's impossibility.

My Mother's Miracle

Over twenty-five years ago my mother received a diagnosis of lung cancer.  The doctors said that 1/3 of both lungs would need to be removed and then she would need several treatments of chemotherapy.  Mother said "I am not going to have chemotherapy!"  My sister and I both agreed and said "And no, you are not going to need surgery either!" The doctors sent mother home for a few days and scheduled her for another biopsy before her surgery.  When she went home my sister and I prayed that the Lord would uproot the cancerous tumor in her lungs.  We prayed for a divine touch from the Lord.  It wasn't a long, religious-type of prayer- it was a prayer of simple, child-like faith.  A few days later my mother went back to the hospital for a lung biopsy.  During the biopsy my mother coughed up the entire cancerous tumor!  And, even more amazingly, the doctor said that fresh pink skin immediately covered the damaged skin where the tumor once was!  The doctor was amazed.  He said "I have witnessed a miracle.  The tumor in her lung is completely uprooted!"

The Evil Enemy that Opposes Faith: Establishing a Culture of Faith Part Two.

Not experiencing the supernatural?  Do you agree with me that it's time for the raw power of God to be demonstrated and realized?   Precious friend, it's our season to witness the miraculous.

I truly believe God desires to give us dynamic faith. I have spent time to write you because I desire to alert you to the enemies of your faith.  I discussed this to great length in my recent post "How to Identity and Defeat the Enemies that Oppose the Supernatural."  But I want to take this post one step further and focus on the enemy of unbelief. 

Hebrews 3:12 says "Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God." Unbelief definitely opposes faith.  And, as most of you know, without faith it's impossible to please God. (see Hebrews 11:6).  For years all I could focus on was the assumption that God was mad (unpleased) with me if I didn't have enough faith to access my miracle.  Rather that trust Him in the midst of crisis and run to Him for grace I would back away, filled with shame, because I believed I wasn't able to dig deep within myself to have great faith.  More and more condemnation piled upon me.  Soon I was overburdened with guilt and shame and even more self-centeredness- focusing on my weaknesses rather than my being more than a conqueror- as the Word states!  Maybe you can relate.

All this did was cause more and more unbelief.  Why?  Because I focused on me and my ability to conjure up more faith.  Which I couldn't!  The reason is now clear to me.  Allow me to encourage you with what I learned in this process.  We have already accessed faith.  Yes!  When you received Christ you did so in faith!  Your spirit man is perfected, holy and righteous because of the finished work at the cross.  However, we still need our minds renewed concerning the truths of God.  As we learn more truth our faith increases.  However, it is the Holy Spirit who teaches us, right?  So, as the Holy Spirit leads we gain more knowledge and grow in truth and faith.  We can't  make faith be there...in our own strength I mean.  Believer, I so pray you are getting this.  If you do, it will set you free!

When we study the passage closely concerning "...without faith it is impossible to  please  God..." a careful Greek study reveals that the word pleased means basically that God is entirely gratified because we are fully agreeable (with His Word!).  Yes!  He is pleased when we have faith to simply  agree with His Word.  I know that it is a battle to convince ourselves that God really desires to bless us, heal us, prosper us (and more!), but we are releasing faith when we simply agree with what He has promised.  Wow! 

Unbelief is an evil enemy.  Unbelief is connected to our not being in agreement with all that the Word says about each of us having provision, healing, etc.  The voice of unbelief negates all of God's promises.  Again, Hebrews 3:12  makes note of ..."an evil heart of unbelief ..."  This is not saying that we are evil if we don't have faith.  God will not condemn us by calling His precious children "evil hearted!"  No way.   This passage is saying unbelief, not agreeing with God, causes evil plans of the enemy to take root and rob us of experiencing the supernatural.  In fact, I love how The Message Bible says it: "So watch your step, friends. Make sure there's no evil unbelief lying around that will trip you up and throw you off course, diverting you from the living God. "

So you see, unbelief is evil.  It is connected to a wicked spirit that uses human reasoning to oppose God's Word.  (Please read my previous blogs about human reasoning and other enemies that oppose the supernatural for more information on this subject).  At its root, unbelief is a choice.  Choose to believe rather than doubt!  Choose faith rather than unbelief!

Be encouraged today to agree with God.  His Word is truth and light.  Jesus, Himself is Truth...He is the Word.  God's Truth is the very highest level of reality

Let's establish a culture of faith for the supernatural...NOW!

Part One: Establishing a Culture of Faith for the Supernatural

     As I have been previously posting, believers are hungry to experience the supernatural power of God.  Yet, and please allow me to be honest, many have looked for power in all the wrong places!

In my last post, I discussed how we can easily depend upon religious works, resort to comfort zones and control issues, and therefore open doors to witchcraft and the voice of the enemy.  Without the revelation of what Jesus did at the cross, it would be easy for each of us to believe that we can actually access the supernatural manifestation of God due to our own acts of righteousness.  To believe that we are righteous because of what we "do" for Christ rather than "who we are"  in Christ will ensnare us into endless wilderness journeys and lack of  God's supernatural power.

 

Power in the Blood of Jesus

It has been my belief for a while now that it is time for the church to once again preach more messages about the cross and the power in the blood of Jesus.  I have been on a five year journey discovering the truths concerning these topics.  In fact, I recently wrote a book,  The Power in the Blood,  (read more about its contents by clicking on my "book" tab) that I believe will empower each of you in this season. In this book,  I wrote specifically about the necessity to baptize your land of promise with the blood of Jesus.   What do I mean by that?  Well, for instance, when Noah left the ark after the flood, the first thing he did was offer a sacrifice unto the Lord and as he did that he actually baptized the land with blood.  This was type and shadow of the sacrificial shedding of Jesus blood for our salvation.  Yes, when He died for us, he actually shed His precious blood to baptize us into our eternal purposes with in Him!

I have written many previous blogs that discuss the fullness of what the word "sozo" means.   Salvation is the Greek word  sozo which translates not only salvation but also prosperity, healing, protection and all that heaven has to offer us!  Dear believer, it is so important for each of us to plead the blood of Jesus over our promises (which is our Promised Land) because there is power in the blood!

The Occult, Witchcraft, and the Antichrist Spirit

Witchcraft is a perversion (and counterfeit) of God's supernatural power.  Many believers are completely taken back whenever they realize that legalism and religious works opens the door to the occultic roots of witchcraft.  Again, I urge you to read some of my previous blogs as I discuss the fact that "religion"  and "legalism" robs the church of its power.  2 Timothy 5 describes how many prideful people will have a "form of religion" or "religious piety" but deny the power of God.

Identifying the False Voice of the Enemy

Dear Believer, it's time for us to believe for God's power to manifest.  I know you will agree with me!  Just last week while I was in Sanford, Florida at Glory Fire Church (www.gloryfirechurch.com) miracles occurred again!    People with joint problems were healed. Pain was healed.  Deliverance from demonic oppression occurred.  It was a powerful service! I am so thrilled God is absolutely showing up in every way imaginable!

Delving into a Greek word study, we find that the word for  power, especially in the book of Acts,  is "dunamis."  This Greek word  refers to a type of miraculous power, ability, strength...and a power in action!  Wow!  Think about the raw power of God in action-it's totally awesome!

 Bottom line is this- dunamis is the  miraculous and supernatural power of God. In fact, the English words "dynamite" and "dynamic" are derived from the word "dunamis."Think about what dynamite does-  it's a raw form of power, exploding power-right?  Well, God's power is also an explosive form of His dynamic abilities  to perform the supernatural (signs, wonders and miracles). Beloved, God and His goodness desires to explode in our lives-releasing the supernatural power of God in every way!

We have the ability to move in God's supernatural power.  In fact, Mark 16:20 says " And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the Word through accompanying signs."    These signs which accompanied the disciples were the signs of dunamis power of the Father upon His beloved children.  The power of God is intrinsically tied to His Word.  In the book of Acts, alone, there is a testimony in each of its twenty-eight chapters.

The Devil Offers Substitutes for God's Power

I have written much on the demonic realms of "witchcraft."  In my books,  Breaking the Threefold Demonic Cord,  and  The Jezebel Yoke,  I discuss the different types of occult activity which the enemy uses to oppress believers and oppose the supernatural power of God. The occult "hides" revelation...yet revelation reveals what has been hidden.  However, we need to seriously consider the fact that witchcraft is a substitute for God's power and that the enemy desires to keep revelation hidden from us.  How will he do that?  By causing us to focus more on religious performance, strict adherence to doctrines of man and rules.  Read on- dunamis power awaits you as revelation is revealed to you right now!

How to Identify and Defeat the Enemies That Oppose the Supernatural

I'm desiring to continually experience the supernatural, aren't you?  I know that you are!  Most of us are crying out for heaven to touch earth and to witness the raw power of God. The other day while in prayer,  I felt as if the Lord impressed upon me to know what was opposing us, as believers, and how the enemy is targeting our faith.  When our faith is targeted we will struggle with unbelief.  If we agree with what the enemy says, then we give him more power.  Having faith in what God says, especially concerning the supernatural, will dethrone the enemy and his elevated plans to discourage and ultimately defeat us.  Allow me to share briefly six enemies that oppose the supernatural.  Remember, as you read, you are understanding the tactics of the enemy which oppose the culture of faith which is necessary for the supernatural!

1. Enemy #1 is Ignorance.  Isaiah 5:13 says that "...my people have gone into captivity, because they have no knowledge."  Satan hates any revealed knowledge of God.  Why?  Because when we see Him as He is, through revelation of the Word, we are transformed more into His image.  When we receive revelation of who we are in Christ, we can stand in our authority and take our rightful dominion as Sons and Daughters.  It's important to study the Word-not out of performance- but to gain more knowledge of Him.  We are not performing when we study the Word, we are studying so that we can replace old mindsets with fresh revelation.  We are also studying so that we can tear down the lies of the enemy concerning the image we have of ourselves and of God, replacing them with the truth.  We therefore put our trust in His Word to transform us.  When we understand that it is means for us to experience the supernatural power of God we can walk in it!
2. Enemy #2 is Wrong Teaching.  Carnal theology is when we study and teach from a carnal mentality rather than through the revelation of the Holy Spirit.  Theology is the study of God through the mind and reason.  However, without the Holy Spirit doing the teaching (He is the teacher by the way!)  we will teach with improper motivation.  Teaching which is carnally influenced is reflected most often through condemnation and legalism.  As New Covenant believers, we are no longer under the Law.  Though the Law is holy and pure and was necessary, Jesus fulfilled the Law and died so that we could be free to follow the directives of the Holy Spirit and not a set of rules.  Wrong teaching leads to hardened hearts.
   

Accessing Heaven's Best Through Faith

Dear Believer, in the last post I wrote about being a friend to God.  And, that being a friend to God is a level of promotion.  Jesus said to His disciples  at one point in their training..." I do not call you servants (slaves) any longer, for the servant does not know what his master is doing (working out). But I have called you My friends , because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from My Father. [I have revealed to you everything that I have learned from Him.]  " (John 15:15).
AMP.  I desire to expand more on being a friend to God because I believe that it will empower you to access heaven's very best!

 

God's Friends Can Access Heaven's Very Best!

 

Also, in the previous blog, I wrote about how we, as friends of God, are being elevated to an favored position of accessing the very heart of God and therefore being empowered to access the unseen.  I believe that as we understand our true identity- as "friends" of God-  that we can begin to experience God's very best for our lives, families, ministries, jobs..and more!  It all boils down to having faith to believe what God says about us.  Let me explain more. 

 

It's important to first understand that the disciples were promoted from being "servants."  Now, this does not mean that as New Covenant believers we abandon the spiritual principle of servant hood.  No way!  After all, Jesus came to serve.  He came as the King of Kings, yes, but had the heart of a servant.  What Jesus was addressing was this- they were no longer "slaves"but now "servants."  Slaves to what?  I believe it was being a slave to the past, a slave to the Law, religious performance and religious mindsets. Give me another moment to explain more- you'll be so glad you did!

Slaves to the Law

 

Gal 4:4-5 states that God sent Jesus to ..." buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law , so that he could adopt us as his very own children. "(NLT).    Yes, until Jesus came His people were slaves and servants to the Law.  In other words they were in bondage and in captivity. In fact, the Law kills rather than gives life. (See 2 Cor 3:6).  What does all of this actually mean?  It simply means that Jesus came to set us free from all of the religious performance which the Law demanded. 

 

I know first hand how performance robs believers of life and joy. God desires to promote each of us and deliver us from a slavery mentality.  Strict adherence to the Law, or a set of religious rules and doctrines robs each of us of intimate relationship with the Father.  Slaves and servants ( I use the interchangeable but they represent the same in this blog post) do not have immediate access to his master.  In fact a servant's relationship to his master is task-oriented rather than relationship focused.

2014 A Year To Access the Unseen

The Secret of Knowing God's Heart

There was a time that Jesus gave his disciples a promotion.  Yes!  He promoted them from being called  servants to  being called His friends. They had each served Him during His earthly ministry and then one day Jesus turned to them and said " No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things I heard from My Father I have made known to you"  (John 15:15).   

Wow!  Think about that.  Let it sink in a bit.  They were now not simply serving their Master, they were being given access to the secrets that were in the heart of God!  Jesus was promoting the disciples to a more intimate level. They were no longer called servants- those who were limited to serving. They were shifting from a task-oriented mentality to those who would hunger for His presence and ability to understand His heart.  If you recall,  Jesus knew God's heart.  In John 5:19 He stated that He only did what He saw the Father do- in other words Jesus did what was in the heart of His Father.

I believe it is our year of promotion also.   2014 will be a year of tremendous favor with both God and men.  I will be teaching more on favor at another time, but for now, it's important for us to begin to  believe for the supernatural as never before.  Dear ones, when we are given access to God's heart, we are also being given access to the unseen realm. 

Accessing the Unseen and the Supernatural  NOW!

 

 I am believing God for manifestations of the supernatural.  Now!   Hebrews 4 is clear about receiving all that God has for us TODAY.  We need wait no longer for heaven's best to invade our lives.  Let's believe NOW-TODAY for supernatural breakthroughs.

Opening Gates Through Dreams and Visions in 2014

 



Dear Believer, This is your year to break forth in power and demonstration! Yes, you will witness many signs and wonders, miracles and breakthroughs as you demonstrate the Kingdom of God in 2014.  Allow what I just wrote settle in your heart because  God is speaking to each of you-right now- concerning strategies for breakthrough for the New Year of 2014.  How?  Through dreams and visions.  Though I will have much more to share with you soon concerning what I believe prophetically is on the horizon, I wish to still encourage to pay close attention to the dreams you have had and will have in the future.

 

 With that in mind I want to ask you an important question. Have you ever had a dream and then moved on in life (hopefully you documented it!) and  later had an experience that reminded you of that  previous dream?  Some people describe this occurrence as a deja vu  moment. You know, those times when you step back, shake your head and say "I've experienced this before!"  This is not some weird occurrence- it is more a supernatural manifestation of God communicating.  I refer often to these type of experiences as  this- is- that moments.

This -Is -That Moments  

Peter was one who identified  several  this- is- that moments.  Acts 2 testifies that a sound from heaven as a mighty rushing wind occurred and all who were gathered together were filled with the Holy Spirit. Many spoke in unknown tongues and experienced the supernatural power from heaven.  Peter began to preach and declared that what had occurred was a  this is that moment that had been prophesied by Joel (see verse 16).  What did Joel prophesy?  Well, one thing he declared was that God would pour out His Spirit upon  all flesh and that his sons and daughters would prophesy and experience dreams and visions.