Preparing For Passover

Leviticus 23 includes Passover and Unleavened Bread, as well as Firstfruits as part of the Lord’s Feasts which we are encouraged to celebrate. The Hebrew word for Passover is “Pesach” meaning “to spring, jump or pass over something.” This refers to God’s deliverance of Israel from the bondage of Egypt which brought freedom. Passover not only typifies redemption, but prophetically it was God’s plan for world redemption by Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb. What a great reason to celebrate!

“And they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days with joy,” Ezra 6:22. I have not personally found many Believers who celebrate the Lord’s Feasts, or become excited getting rid of the leaven or yeast in their lives. They believe it may be painful or too hard to give up enjoyable/addicting habits. It may be even worse for some to lay down their mental strongholds so they can receive inner healing.

But Passover cannot start until all leaven is removed. Cleansing the home was part of the preparation. However, cleansing of the home is just the beginning. Believers know that cleansing of the home includes the cleansing of our heart.

In 1st Corinthians 5:7 Paul states: Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, just as you really are unleavened. For Christ the Passover Lamb has been sacrificed.” Because of the sacrifice of Jesus, we are already new. His death and resurrection has removed the leaven in our life. However, in a practical way, there is still leaven that we must cleanse inside and out from the influence of the world. It is a time of purifying our heart and a time to make a decision to separate our self from anything unclean.

In preparation for this Passover, beginning April 19th through April 27th, let’s cleanse our “house,” get rid of the leaven, and celebrate as we experience His presence, joy and blessings!

In His Covenant Love,

Don't Miss Your Visitation

Almost everyone has expectations of God. You hope, you pray, you trust and sometimes great things happen. But it also seems at times, like He is not listening or responding to your need. You may feel your answer hasn’t come or He just doesn’t care. Maybe you are praying for relief from a challenge or health issue -maybe you are asking Him to help you with finances or work. Whatever your need, He will come and help you, but He may come to you in a way you don’t expect.

Luke chapter one tells the story of Mary. She experienced a visitation, but to her surprise is was to conceive a child. I’m sure Mary had many needs in her life, but when the angel of the Lord came to her, he spoke of heaven’s desire for her not her own needs. How did she respond? We are given a divine model, an example if you will, of how God desires for us to respond in Mary. She is a picture of surrender and humility as she speaks in Luke 1:38: “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.”

When God visits He comes to you with purpose and favor. How did the angel greet Mary? In Luke 1:28 the angel declared: “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” The word favored #5487 in the concordance is defined as “highly favored, given honor.” She was also encouraged that she was not alone - God was with her!

God will always equip you and supply all that He requires. He is pleased when you surrender to Him in humility and obedience to His request. When you choose to surrender to His plan and purpose, He will infuse you with His grace and favor, and He will bless you, your life and family and the work He assigns to you.

God gave favor to Mary for the following:
1) God wanted to bring something great into Mary’s life and into the world.
2) God’s way of doing this was unexpected and unusual. It did not fit into the culture.
3) There was a price Mary was willing to pay in accepting God’s plan for her life, family, relationships,
cultural acceptance, finances, even her good name in the city.
4) Mary had a choice whether to receive or reject what the angel brought to her - What God desired for
her life.
5) Mary chose to trust God.

Like Mary, there is a price that may include suffering and sacrifice, but the blessing of surrender to His desire will overtake the challenge and sacrifice that may accompany your visitation. A difficult lesson to learn as a believer is that happiness really has nothing to do with blessedness. Happiness relates more to being lucky, and the Lord never promised pure happiness, good luck or even favorable circumstances. The disciples are perfect examples of the challenges in the life of a believer and overcomer. God desires to bless, and His blessedness results in His indwelling, resulting in peace and contentment no matter what the circumstances may be.

James 5:11 translated in the Zodiates Bible states this verse should be translated: “Behold, we recognize those who endured as blessed;” that is to say, receiving His indwelling, and in God finding full satisfaction in spite of their suffering. Apostle Paul often spoke of the maturing process in learning to be content whether you have gain or are in lack (Philippians 4). If you look for material gain or acknowledgement from man to feel successful, you may miss your visitation and the future God desires for you.

Father, may we find favor with You, and in our surrender and choice to obey, may You bless each one with Your presence and grace, knowing that You Lord dwell within; causing us to be fully satisfied in You, knowing You are with us whatever our circumstances or life journey. Help us see with Spirit eyes what your plans are so we do not miss Your visitations.

In His Love,

Marriage - Our Living Example of Covenant

One of the main aspects of understanding covenant is giving. Many marriage books today include ways of negotiating with your spouse so each can get what they want, rather than the idea of loving and giving to each other. One fear is: “If I give to them unconditionally, they will take advantage of me and I will become a doormat that they run over.” There is no way that I can address all the Christian cultural ideas that have been accepted throughout the years. Dr. Skip Moen wrote a book I highly recommend titled “Guardian Angel,” which addresses some of the cultural strongholds and what the original purpose for the helpmate (ezer in Hebrew). A few of his thoughts are also paraphrased below.

Even in Genesis man is suppose to rule, but this rule is to be compassionate, never exploiting the relationship. It includes stewardship, care, nurturing and protection. It is similar to a shepherd. Ruling is not suppose to be domination by force or the law. In Genesis 2:24 man is told to detach from precious protectors and providers and to cling (dagaq in Hebrew) to their spouse. It means a close affection and loyalty. An example is how Israel clings to God. Obviously this assumes first that the husband has an intimate relationship with the Lord and easily transfers that same closeness to his “Ezer.”

Sometimes a fear of giving the wife too much power can cause Christian husbands to begin to quote scriptures to make sure they don’t lose their authority. “I’m the head of the household and I will make all final decisions!” In covenant relationships there is a mutual submission that takes place; a giving to one another. It becomes defacto authority which develops from a decision to place myself under the direction of another, because I recognize the right of the other to be my lord, and it is in my best self interest to submit to that authority.

Dejure authority is based on the law. For instance, a policeman has the authority to give us a ticket if we are speeding and the authority comes from the municipal law. However, if the husband has any authority at all, it is based on defacto, and the wife recognizes or grants him authority, and it is in her best interest to submit. Jesus’ entire ministry is based on defacto authority. He doesn’t command us to repent or we go to prison. He invites us to recognize His right to rule, to submit to Him because it is our duty and in our best interest to submit to His authority in the covenant relationship. We volunteer to grant Him authority over our life.

When you love your spouse, you are free to love. No one is forcing you to love them. It’s voluntary. But it does not mean we have no obligations. Imagine no expectations, no commitment and no mutual covenant. Would you call that love? What if your children ignored your requests or directions? It’s the same with God. If we love Him we keep His Torah; not because we have to, but because of love and we desire to please Him. God is delighted when we love Him by obeying and submit to Him.

Ephesians 5:24-25 is a good example of covenant giving. “But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” Since God uses the marriage covenant as an earthly example of His covenant with His people, let’s remember that it is our obligation to give our love to our spouse as we give that same love to the Father. It is our joy and privilege to be able to lay our life down and please our Father, and do the same with our spouse in the marriage covenant!

In His Covenant Love,

Patience and Perseverance Brings Life

When you choose to walk in a covenantal relationship with God He imparts HIs Gifts of the Spirit to you as He brings forth His Fruit of the Spirit. As you experience the mixture of life, joy as well as trials, God is continually at work maturing you to look more like Him. Galatians 5:22 explains the divine fruit as the following: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control. Just like tending a garden, watching over the growth and maturation of His fruit in your life takes time.

I’ve been reflecting lately on all the wonders and truths God has shown me and entrusted to me over the years. His program for character development has at times been very challenging, especially learning what patience looks like to Him. We find Jesus in Luke 21 giving instructions to His followers, and in verse 19 He states: “By your endurance you will gain your lives.” The word endurance is found in the concordance #5278 as Hupomeno; meaning to remain under, to endure or sustain a load of miseries, adversities, persecutions or provocations in faith and patience toward things or circumstances. What Jesus is implying here is that things are going to get tough. Life is not going to always be sweet and it is important for you to develop your gift of endurance and patience to run and finish your race.

As a child, patience is waiting for Christmas or a birthday; even the end of school for summer vacation to commence. Patience may appear as a dream of finishing school, getting a drivers license or attending college or tech schools. Times seems to pass slowly as you look forward to these life markers. Then you may dream of finding a spouse, getting married and working in a great job, or making money to buy a house or car. You wait, and wait, and wait some more. After working for many years, you dream of retirement, travel, financial stability. In all your life experiences you learn to wait, learning patience, endurance, perseverance, knowing fulfillment will come some day. You may then find yourself care taking aging parents, or trusting for healing in your body, finances, relationships or children. More patience, enduring, waiting, waiting, waiting. Now by waiting, I mean actively waiting. Life doesn’t stand still. Life rolls along, but those hopes or desires and expectations remain as we patiently and diligently live each day. Ecclesiastes reminds us in 3:1-8 there is a season for everything under heaven. Recognizing your season of life will help you grow in patience and peace as well as understanding.

Patience is often one of the most difficult fruit to develop. When we acquire the ability to wait, we then reflect more of His peace. Learning patience in God’s time is certainly not like the world’s time. Healing may come as an instant miracle or it may arrive after much perseverance. Finances may instantaneously appear if you win the lottery or an inheritance, or it may take a lifetime to acquire and save. Jesus and His disciples taught His followers the importance of learning to be patient and endure. They knew it was important for their souls, as well as mental and spiritual health. “By your patient endurance you will gain your lives (possess your soul)”, Luke 21:19. “But the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved,” Matthew 24:13. “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance, and let patience have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing,” James 1:1-4.

Patience, endurance, perseverance, whatever you choose, is foundational in a believer’s journey with God. We as children are not always very patient, but in surrendering to God’s plans and understanding the season you may be in, you will find greater peace as you learn to bow to His hands molding you into a new person and becoming more like Him. Oswald Chambers wrote in his ageless devotional, My Utmost For His Highest: “God gives us a vision, and then He takes us down to the valley to batter us into shape of that vision. It is in the valley that so many of us give up and faint. Every God-given vision will become real if we will only have patience.”

A few thoughts to help you as you practice the skill of patient endurance: 1) Realize God is not in a hurry. He has given you eternity. He changes you the most in the difficult places. I have prayers 10 years and counting as well as prophetic words 30 years and waiting. Know that He hears your cries and will perform His work in your life in His perfect time. 2) When waiting seems unbearable, ask God if there is something for you to learn or do in the situation. Ask Him to give you clarity and understanding. 3) Find peace and comfort in His love for you knowing He works all things for your good. He is changing you as you endure. 4) Plan a time each day to quiet yourself and simply rest or talk with Him. Tell Him how you feel, knowing that He is listening and in time will respond as He sets things in order.

Father, thank You that You love us so much that You allow difficult times in life to cause us to grow and mature as You mold us to be more like You. Thank You for Your divine impartation and intervention in our lives, guiding us, teaching and changing us. Help us to learn to trust You more, knowing that You desire for us to prosper and be in health, as You teach our souls to prosper (3 John 1:2). ”Let us not become weary of doing what is good, for at the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up” ( Galatians 6:9). Thank you Father!

In His Love,

Share Lovingkindness During The Race

Lovingkindness or mercy is an English word defining “hesed” in the Old Testament. Hesed is a term that is included in covenant language describing relationships between people that reflect generosity or compassion that comes from love. When our relationship with God is broken, He works at renewing it, because He loves what He has created; even when we have rejected His sovereignty and try to control our own destiny. He restrains His anger and does not give up on us. Hesed has many meanings and it is difficult to define as an English expression. in His kingdom, hesed is relational, reciprocal and active.

Within the English culture when someone receives a gift, after saying “Thank you” the gratitude turns to a reciprocal gift or way of giving. In the New Testament it works this way also. God gives to us by His love and we respond as a disciple ready to give to Him. In the Old Testament it is based on hesed and in the New Testament it is called grace. Grace can be defined as: God doing something for us, by His love, that we cannot do for ourself. In other words, it describes one aspect of God’s incredible character.

In the midst of giving hesed or lovingkindness to others, you can still experience battles such as: the good fight of faith, wrestling with the enemy, and the war of denying self. Through it all, the author of Hebrews encourages us: Let us run with endurance the race that is put before us.” The word “race” is an easier way to identify the challenges of life we all face.

As we encounter various battles as we run the race, He still wants His character (hesed-mercy-grace) to be extended to His people, identifying His kingdom. We first are obligated to give to God because of His continuous gift of grace to us, and then reciprocate our giving and love to others. Regardless what we encounter in the race, let’s continue to extend lovingkindness or hesed to Him and to others!

In His Covenant Love,

Get Wisdom And Understanding!

Discernment. Logic. Reasoning skills. These were all important concepts to help develop language skills in our students, during my tenure as a Speech-Language Therapist. It was important for students to not only learn their vocabulary and sentence development, but to also acquire the ability to weigh and rightly discern situations to make quality decisions. It is still important in life to gain understanding. Life works more smoothly when we have knowledge. In Proverbs we find the timeless words of wise men and Rabbi’s who taught on the ways to conduct one’s life. Some have described Proverbs as “Wisdom Literature.” We find in chapter 4 suggestions for a better less painful plan to life in the author’s wise and fatherly instruction: “Pay attention, hear intelligently and gain or recognize understanding to live life well.” He states: “Hear, O sons, the instruction of a father, and give attention that you may gain understanding, for I give you sound teaching; Do not abandon my instruction…. Keep my precepts and live. Acquire wisdom! Acquire understanding!…Do not forsake her, and she will guard you; Love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding. Prize her and she will exalt you; She will honor you if you embrace her. She will place on your head a garland of grace; She will present you with a crown of beauty.”

We can have intellectual knowledge and still end up with a very difficult life. Is it possible that our society has grown in material wealth but possibly failed in encouraging children and young people to develop their understanding and discernment, while learning to think, communicate and reason for themselves. Even Isaiah 1:18 emphasized the importance to “come and reason together.” Instead of making decisions by cultural norms, familial belief structures, he said-she said, what would happen if we were able to pause, take in and process information and respond more slowly to others and situations; while taking time to gain understanding and perspective and prayerfully seeking the Spirit of Truth who comes with divine wisdom and revelation?

Proverbs 4 closes with further guidance in verses 20-23. “My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your sight; Keep them in the midst of your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their whole body. Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.”

Father, Spirit of Truth, please come and help us to gain wisdom, revelation and understanding as we apply heaven’s principles and precepts to our lives, our relationships and decision making. Thank you for transforming our hearts to better align with you and your word. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, will give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. May the eyes of your heart be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling and what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. (Eph. 1:17-19a).

In His Love,

Reading, Writing and Running With Your Vision

I admit that Habakkuk 2:2 use to be a great motivating biblical scripture to help me accomplish the goals that I set. My paraphrase…”Write the vision, make it plain so that I can run with it” was what I read and declared aloud! My business background helped me to set goals, predict the outcome and challenges, and then follow through with what needed to be done to meet the goal within the timed deadline. The only problem was I didn’t know or expect a lovely wilderness experience where nothing worked, except developing an intimate relationship with the Lord.

The last few weeks of 2018, I began to sense the Lord bringing me back to this scripture in Habakkuk. My argument of course was, “Lord, surely we do not need to write the Vision/New Years resolution for the new year, because everyone breaks them anyway.” However, I did take the opportunity to study (not just read) this Old Testament “Minor” Prophet Habakkuk and what he wrote. Minor simply means his writing was short, not that it wasn’t important. For instance, in Habakkuk 2:4 it says, “But the righteous will live by faith.” Think of how Martin Luther changed society with this incredible verse that Habakkuk wrote!

Now Habakkuk was doing his fair share of complaining about the Chaldeans (Babylonians). He questioned the fairness of God’s management of the world and how evil seems to win out over the righteous. He saw violence, lawbreaking, and injustice going unpunished. By the end of Habakkuk 2 he did conclude that because of God’s holiness, his own questions were not justified.

Part of God’s answer to him in Habakkuk 2:2 was to “Record the vision, and inscribe it on tablets, that the one who reads it may run.” I started to do a Hebrew word study on some of the English words, knowing it always brings a depth, and many times a totally different meaning to the English word in scripture. The word “vision” (chazown), means to “see, a mental sight, a dream, vision, a revelation, a prophecy.” I realized that God wanted each of us to write what He has spoken to us and make it clear.

The next part was much more than a New Year’s Resolution. The word “read” (quara) means to “proclaim, not just read it.” It was addressed to a specific recipient (us) and intended to elicit a specific response. It was not to the casual reader. It was also to name or declare the sovereignty over the things being named. Not just reading, but meditating and allowing the vision to penetrate your whole being so you may run with it.

The application of this scripture is to write out our words, prophecies, what we sense in prayer, highlighted scriptures, or how He spoke to us when we were journaling. Then, not just read them, but allow them to soak into our spirit. Mediate on them and allow the “vision” to motivate you by His Spirit. In Habakkuk 2:3 it does say: “For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hastens toward the goal, and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay.” So if the vision has not yet come to pass, the appointed time will come! Even in his waiting, Habakkuk concluded at the end in 3:18: “Yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.”

I hope you will use the beginning of 2019 to review how God has spoken and communicated His “vision” for you. Allow it to permeate you, so you will be ready to run when the appointed time reveals itself!

In His Covenant Love,

God's Names Reveal His Character And Nature

What better way to prepare and strengthen yourself as we enter 2019 than to review and reflect upon some of God’s names. There are twists and turns with unexpected surprises, strife and challenges in this life journey, so may I suggest you consider taking a few moments to consider some of His names and prepare your heart. Personally, His names have kept me, strengthened and comforted me over the years and I know they will give support and life to you also.

This year, if you battle sickness of any kind, remember to call out, ask and declare His name over your circumstances, for He is “Jehovah-Rapha.” He is health and life to you. When you have any provisional needs call to Him and allow Him to help you and be your supply; for His name is “Jehovah-Jireh,” your Supplier. If you find yourself weary and in need of guidance and protection, remember to call upon Him as - “Jehovah-Nissi,” for the Lord is your banner and conqueror. This name was actually given by Moses who gave this name to the altar he built as they celebrated the defeat of the Amalekites at Rephidim in Exodus 17:15. His banner over you is not only Love, but Victory for you! Always know that whatever your situation this year, you will find Him present, for HIs name is also Jehovah-Shamah - “Jehovah is there!.” This name was given to the city in Ezekiel’s vision in Ezekiel 48:35. This truly defines His character and His positioning to you; always in the mist - always there with you!

There are so many names of God it is difficult to list them all here. But if you are interested and find His names comforting, you can of course check the internet. Also John Paul Jackson wrote a wonderful book of HIs names: “I Am: 365 Names of God”, and Katherine Johnson has an in depth manual on the Names of God through our Covenant Center bookstore which you can find on our website: www.thecovenantcenter.com.

As you study His names, you will become more intimately aware of who God is; and knowing Him more intimately, you will receive a greater understanding of not only His nature and character, but also HIs ways.

I’ve listed a few of His names that have been very precious to me. I hope you find them encouraging and enriching to your life in Christ.

Jehovah-Adonai - “Jehovah, My Master and Lord”
Jehovah-El-Shaddai - “Jehovah, Who is More Than Enough”
Jehovah-Elyon - “Jehovah, God Most High.”
Jehovah-M’Kaddesh - “Jehovah My Sanctifier”
Jehovah-Rohi - “Jehovah My Shepherd”
Jehovah-Shalom - “Jehovah My Peace and Prosperity”
Jehovah-Tsidquenu - “Jehovah My Righteousness”
Jehovah-Yahweh - “Jehovah -Great I Am”
Jehovah-Or - “The Lord is LIght”
Jehovah-Goaleka - “The Lord My Redeemer”
Jehovah-Isabaoth - “The Lord of Host”

You are precious to God! He loves you! When you are confronted in any situation this year, know that it is a set up for Him to reveal His nature and His character to you and for you. He desires to intimately know you and I pray that through this year your relationship with Him will grow and your life will be enriched and changed by His love and grace.

In HIs Love,

The God Of All Comfort

Pain and suffering is an inevitable part of life in this world. As much as we may resist it, sooner or later it finds us. For most of Thanksgiving and now into the Christmas season, I’ve been sitting here with intense pain and spasms from a near miss auto accident. I’ve actually battled back, neck and disc pain for over forty years from a high speed head on crash while in my 20’s. I see more and more each day, each painful episode of life gives us an opportunity to know Him more intimately, in His faithfulness, His presence, love and beauty, as well as identifying with His suffering.

In our pain and weakness God comes with His comfort and peace. In our loneliness, He comes as a friend and teacher. In our times of discouragement He comes as the God of Hope. He teaches us there are moments in life to simply embrace the pain and allow Him to do His deep work and bring healing and new life. We find ourselves alone with HIm, and in this time a deeper more intimate relationship and understanding of HIm and His ways begins to form. In this time we begin to understand that He has never left us or forsaken us. He is always present to guide and comfort, and in our pain and by His word, He changes us a little each day into more of His image.

May this Christmas and New Year season, whatever your situation, find you wrapped in HIs arms of comfort and peace as He changes you to appear like more of HIm.

Father, thank you that you are always with us, especially in times of pain and discomfort. Thank You for strengthening us and imparting to us greater peace as we learn to surrender our circumstances to You, so You may have Your way and complete Your divine word within us. Thank You for the lessons of patience and waiting as You change our hearts; and thank You in these moments of developing an attitude of thankfulness for the little things of life that expand in our eyes and hearts. Where our appreciation grows in the things we often take for granted, as they burst forth in beauty and brilliance revealing Your omnipotence and majesty.

And now during this sacred season and new year, “May the God of all comfort, who comforts in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:4-5).

Merry Christmas and a Blessed New year!

In His Love,

Continued Thanksgiving

Just because Thanksgiving has passed does not mean we have to forget about a sincere heart of thankfulness. 1st Thessalonians 5 speaks of this as it declares: “In everything give thanks.” I realize that everyone has life challenges and sometimes suffering that has caused us to question at times if God is around, does He hear us or does He care. We may say or think, “If He really cared, why didn’t He do something or stop this event from happening?” These are difficult questions to wrestle through.

To understand the covenant that God has invited us to enter, we also need to remember that He is holy, faithful and trustworthy. His will for us is based on His best intended development for us. He knows what we need. He chooses to love us. The struggles we experience do not dictate or change His love for us. He guides us back to the promises and blessings of being in relationship with HIm. My attitude or sin may affect my joy and disrupt my communion with Him, but He does not give up on me.

After we wrestle with Him and some of our discouragement subsides, I believe Adam Clark summarizes and gives great encouragement in the following found in his commentary on 1st Thessalonians 5:18. It states: In everything give thanks, for this reason, that all things work together for good to them that love God; therefore, every occurrence may be a subject of gratitude and thankfulness. While we live to God, prosperity and adversity will be equally helpful to you. For this is the will of God, that ye should be always happy; that he should ever be in the spirit of prayer; and that ye should profit by every occurrence in life, and be continually grateful and obedient; for gratitude and obedience are inseparably connected.

I am not saying that there are not challenges for each believer, but even James reminds us of Job in James 5:11: “We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.”

Lord, give us a heart of thanksgiving! Thank you for Your love, Your mercy, grace and compassion!

In HIs Covenant Love,

"Don't Judge Me!"

How many of you get a little close to offering a suggestion to someone and they say, “Don’t judge me…that’s what the Bible says!” Usually, that comment sort of stops most people quickly in their tracks. So what does Jesus really say about judging? My wife had a vision that she wrote out on our Covenant Center blog site recently, as she observed many believers responding to the correction of the Lord regarding their judgments and criticism. What does the vision mean in light of scripture?

Matthew 7:1-2; “Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you.” It might be beneficial to define the word “judge”, krino in the Greek, because it appears we will be held to that same standard that we hold everyone else to.

“Judge” means to divide, separate, make a distinction, or to come to a decision. In Matthew 7 vs 1 and 2, it means to pass sentence or give one’s opinion in a private manner. In other places in the Bible it does not mean we are not meant to judge, discern, or distinguish spiritual or natural realities. In Galatians 6:1-2 it says: “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently.” So we are suppose to judge, confront, and restore, but do it with love. 1st Corinthians 5 teaches believers that we are to judge each other within the church and God will judge those outside the church.

In John 5:22 it says, “For not even the Father judges anyone, but has given all judgment to the Son.” In John 8:15 Jesus says: “You judge after the flesh; I judge no man.” So, at this time, there is not judging, like a final solemn judicial manner being released from God or Son.

Back to Matthew 7. What did Jesus mean then? I believe the next three verses help explain much more in what He meant. Verse 3-5 says, “Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and behold, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye,, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.”

Therefore, there seems to be consequences for those who are quick to see sins of others, but are blind and unwilling to hold themselves accountable to the same standard that they hold everyone else to. It appears that the judgment is worse for those that fail to look at their own sin when they are addressing other’s sin.

It isn’t that the Lord has forbidden all moral judgment or accountability. He forbids harsh, prideful and hypocritical judgment that condemns others without evaluating or judging themselves. We must look at our self first. Now I suggest you visit my wife Becky’s blog post on our Covenant Center web site, entitled, “Loose Lips Sink Ships.”

With Covenant Love,

Loose Lips Sink Ships

It was early in the morning of October 18th around 4 am, when during a restful sleep, I began brushing away from my cheek what seemed like feathers moving across my face. One, then two more swishes of my hand, I then sensed the gentle pressure like a hand on my shoulder. I opened my eyes thinking Richard was waking me, when I realized an angel was escorting me into a vision. I began hearing conversations, some crying, praying and some wailing. I could sense the pain in the intensity of their cries. I thought at first It must be our neighbors, when I suddenly was taken to a large gathering of people weeping.

There were multitudes of people crying, some deeply wailing in sorrow and repentance. Prayers were ascending. They were on their knees in what seemed to be a very large church setting with stained glass windows without walls. I was pondering what had brought them to such sadness when I was next taken into a heavenly realm where I was observing God the Father speaking with His angelic hosts. They were all looking down watching the mass of people kneeling sorrowfully when God, whose face appeared in a cloud like mist, similar to a Michelangelo painting in the Sistine Chapel, began to speak.

His voice was stern and rich with divine authority, and yet I could sense His fathomless love as He sternly, and yet wistfully spoke correction and divine adjustment to His children. It was evident that His deep concern and desire for His children to succeed and live well, without being hindered by the lack of understanding of His divine kingdom principles, brought Him to this moment to speak a word of guidance and caution. He spoke: “My children, who are you to criticize and judge each other? Many of My people have developed ‘loose lips.’ When you criticize others, you criticize Me! When you judge them, you judge Me! Ha! Ha!…How arrogant and self righteous you are, when you stand and speak exalting what you think you know and believe, trusting in your own understanding and not seeking Mine; choosing to act in your own self righteousness and not Mine. What revelation knowledge or understanding do you have unless I give it to you? Do you have the power to know and understand the depths of the heart of man? Ha! Is it written, do not touch My anointed or my chosen ones (Ps 105:15) and yet you try to destroy them with your words or your controlling prayers. Nor are you to touch My works that I have anointed for My plans and purposes. And yet, you vainly place your understanding above My knowledge.

Be careful of your actions and what you speak in the coming days, for I am releasing a new dispensation of My kingdom. My people have lived in My great grace, and so it shall be; but I am releasing My power anew, where once again the earth will shake with awe and wonder, as well as the fear of Who I Am. I am bringing a new order, realigning and exposing, as well as correcting. Keep your eyes and focus upon Me and you will not fall. Choose to remain in a place of humility and surrender, and I will deal with those who judge, criticize or dishonor.

My plumb-line has fallen, on which side do you stand? Behold, I am preparing to do great things in the earth. Will you not see it, or understand it? Holiness will be written beside My banner of love. Those who choose to position themselves in purity and humility will be honored and elevated in the coming days. Choose your words wisely and surrender any criticism or judgment of others to Me.”

Father, thank you for your love that brings adjustments and corrections as well as your revelatory plans and purposes in this life. Increase our understanding of Your plans and desires. Take the coal to our lips, and help us to walk in your ways, releasing hope and life to others. Bring your divine guidance in how we should pray and how we should respond to others. Thank you Father for your love and guidance, as well as your desire for us to live well and prosper in your kingdom here on earth.

Just a note: Upon perceiving “Loose Lips” which I had never heard before, a little research revealed that it is an idiom originating during WWII. Loose Lips Sink Ships was used on posters during the war to encourage citizens to “Beware of unguarded talk.”

May His blessings and truth bring life to you and family,

God's Appointed Fall Feasts

We find described in Leviticus 23 God's feasts or His appointed times of celebration and consecration. The fall feast is a season when God wants His people to learn to rest in Him. The Feast of Passover teaches about God's peace; the Feast of Pentecost instructs us on God's power; and the Feast of Tabernacles gives understanding about God's rest.

Even though the days previous to the feast were a time of repentance and reflection, the Feast of Tabernacles celebrated the final ingathering of the harvest which God had blessed the people with for year. The fruit of the land had been reaped, so the people could rest from their harvesting labors. It was a time of great rejoicing! They would celebrate and thank God in advance for the next harvest.

The Feast of Tabernacles emphasized a rest with the Lord, however it did not necessarily mean to literally lay down and do nothing. Rest meant to continue to be intimate with Him, staying involved in the normal work of the Kingdom, while continuing with their occupation, family, study, prayer and ministry.

The dates for this Fall, 2018 are: 

Rosh Hashanna ( Feast of Trumpets) Beginning of the New Year - September  9 - 10
Days of Awe - Include the 10 days from Rosh Hashanna to Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) A day of fasting - September 18 - 19
Sukkot or Feast of Tabernacles/Booths - September 23 - 30

I still personally believe God is doing many things behind the scenes during this time of restoration and reconciliation. I know during this Fall season God is going to move in a great way, affecting not only the seven mountains, but His people individually as well. I do not know how it will play out, but I know there is a correction coming to level out the playing field and to begin to restore what has been stolen from His people.

Let's celebrate His Fall Feasts and look forward to this New year!

In His covenant love,

Vision of God's Family - Vanderly Arnold

The following vision by Vanderly Arnold is such a precious picture of not only our Covenant Center family but I believe a beautiful prophetic picture of the marvelous design of God's Kingdom and His people. I hope you are encouraged and enjoy this delightful picture of the diversity in the unity of God's family. 

During worship on the Sunday of our 20th anniversary of The Covenant Center, I experienced an open vision. In front of me I saw vibrant green earth and it was covered with birds of every kind from every part of the world! Each bird was spreading and flapping their wings, sometimes jumping a bit off the ground - almost dancing. Their faces emitted such joy that matched the passion of their movement. The vision was so vibrant and colorful! I heard a sound from the sky and the sound moved and swirled by the wind in the canopy of trees. As the sound moved through the layers of the tree canopy, the sound would touch the leaves and separate into different sheets of music, creating more sound and texture. The sound moved like wind but did not sound like wind; it had its own unique set of high pitches.

The birds were clustered together, flapping and moving, but as the sound reach them they moved even more emphatically with strong bursting flaps and jumps. A falcon stood next to a displayed peacock and the peacock stood beside a hopping Yellow Finch, that stood among dancing white pelicans, that bumped into a yapping and clapping toucan. There was ever bird imaginable! At face-value, the picture seemed silly and goofy, almost obnoxious, but when you stood back, the sight was magnificent and beautiful - full of beauty, color and joy!

I asked God, "What am I looking at?" He replied: "You are looking at your community! This is The Covenant Center! Isn't it beautiful? This is what I see when I look at you. Do you see and feel all the joy and passion? This is what I feel when I watch you; and what sets apart this community is that not only do you love Me, not only do you worship Me, but you hear My sounds of heaven. But not only do you hear it, you respond to it! You move according to how I move! And this makes you love Me all the more!

Look at my falcons, raptors and eagles! My wrens, cardinals and finches! My mocking birds, owls, woodpeckers and quail! My pelicans, storks, gulls and geese! My parrots, toucans and cockatoos! My swans! My hummingbirds! Look at each of you. Each of you are so different in how you come but collectively, you come! You come to love Me. You worship Me. You hear Me and respond to Me. Each one of you have a distinct role as a part of this community. Each one hears Me and responds to Me in how I created them. In the same way each bird is still a bird; they are different and unique in how I have created them to be a bird. And so it is for The Covenant Center. This is what I see, and I adore what I see! I absolutely love you! And as a result of your coming together, there is so much love and so much beauty and color, and so much joy! I love what I see and I love you!"

This vision stands apart in one of the most vibrantly colorful and passionate pictures God has ever gifted my eyes to see. I felt so beautiful and loved by God when I looked upon my community! It was a bit silly, a little obnoxious, but there was lots of enthusiasm and passion we collectively had for our Lord. Without trying, we really are unique, and the key is we come together to love and worship God, and we move to the sound of His voice accordingly. Each bird has a different role that is represented in our community:

Birds of Prey -  Raptor is Latin and it means, "to seize" and "to take by force." There are those of us who by the faith of God go after what has been stolen and go after and destroy the works of the enemy. If you resonate with that, then you are a bird of prey in this vision.

Calling Birds - These are my messengers to share with the community as well as send out beyond; a fresh perspective and revelation of God's truth. Are you a messenger of God? Then you are one of His calling birds.

Song Birds - These are the worshippers in the house of God that lead us to respond to the sound of God within us and around us. Are you designed to worship? Then you are a Song Bird among us.

Backyard Birds -  Both Calling Birds and Song Birds are backyard birds. These birds are designed to mate for life, stick together and keep rebuilding their homes and raising families. Backyard Birds are the ones who say I'm committed to my spouse. I'm committed to my family and I'm committed to covenantal relationships. If you are one of those in this community, we need you as an example of honor in relationships.

Peacocks - This is the artistry, creativity and beauty of God among us, that helps bring the community to an intimate encounter with God as we are captivated by His beauty. Does this resonate with how God designed you? The you are a peacock among us.

Water Birds - These birds were affectionately the most adorably obnoxious. These are the birds that understand the vitality in the baptism of the Holy Spirit. They immerse themselves in a spirit-filled lifestyle, because they know the joy that comes from being totally dependent on the Holy Spirit. I want to be a Water Bird!

Tropical Birds  - These birds demonstrate God's love and His transcendence ways that move us into deeper freedom with Him. God desires to move beyond our limiting box of thinking and expectations. He longs to transcend beyond our imagination. You only see God as this "one way"? You think God will only do " this or that?" These birds represent those in our community that come in and want to impact our minds and hearts with His love and freedom! Vanderly Arnold

In HIs love,

Covenant Center Activities Resume

I believe we have had a beautiful month of July, resting and spending time with our families and time with God. I've heard great reports of special vacations as well as catching up on projects, traveling, mission trips, and more. As we enter August, students and teachers will not only be getting ready for another school year, but our Covenant Center meetings and activities will also commence.

The following is a short review of some of our activities. Be sure and check our website for our calendar and additional information, as well as our Facebook site "The Covenant Center." We will be having our special yearly Covenant U graduation August 18th at 6:00pm. This is always a special time for our graduates celebrating their achievements and licensing.

Sundays - 9 am Prayer time with Dan Koerner; 10:00 am Celebration Meeting including worship, sharing, releasing and teaching and classes for our youth.

Mondays - Covenant U begins September 10th. Please call our office for an application and class schedule - 863-802-5171.

Wednesdays - 6:00 pm prayer and 7:00pm - Community Break Out Night which includes:
                                         7pm - Youth Meeting plus childcare
                                                    Hearing God - Adults
                                                    Women Connect - Adult Women

Fridays - 7:00pm School of the Prophets with:
                                                     2nd Friday - Don Franklin
                                                     3rd Friday - Glenn Miller
                                                     4th Friday - Randi Lechner

To check for dates and times of our other activities such as Nights of Worship, Nights of Art, Men's Roundtable and other small groups and prayer times, go to our website: www.thecovenantcenter.com and click on Events to access the monthly calendar.

We are looking forward to a great year as we continue to develop relationship with God, fellowship with one another, and carry His presence into the land serving others. We thank you Lord for the healings and miracles we have experienced as a community and we look forward to this coming Rosh Hashanah as we celebrate the new year and experience the fullness of your Covenant of Peace!

Shalom,

The Battles Continue

It seems as a Believer there is outwardly more conflict, arguments, accusations and battles to fight. The Bible does mention at least three types of battles we will engage in:

1. Ephesians 6:12 - For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, 
against powers, against rulers of the darkness..
2. 1 Timothy 6:12 - Fight the good fight of faith.. 
3. Matthew 16:24 - ...let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.
James 4:1 - ....the source of quarrels and conflicts...your pleasures that wage war in your members. (The war of denying self or flesh).

So we have a wrestling match with the enemy, a good fight of faith with the Lord, and a war with ourselves. I think that is plenty to deal with! However, in relationships, internet, emails, texts, television, Facebook, conflicts are increasing. It did not seem like the conflicts and confrontations were quite so openly aggressive, numerous or intense with people in the past. Now, instead of dealing with conflict internally in our mind and intellect, we have more issues to deal with outwardly from others.

I want to address a few of the enemy's tactics, who is hoping to bring more turmoil and strife
into your life. He will:

a.  Entice you to sin - this leaves an open door for some unpleasant consequences.

b.  Create doubt - whether God really loves you. The implied message would be if God really loved you then your difficult situations would not be happening. The enemy's goal is to get you to prove your worth to God by performing and doing things so He will love you and bless you; instead of knowing and resting in your worth and value, that you are already loved by Him!

c.  Accusations - accuse you of anything, so that you will respond demonically with the same ungodly communication (sin). The accuser of the brethren will put you down, criticize and name call, by creating fear or anger. The most effective attacks are in areas where you have unresolved wounds, which cause you to become defensive and offended which may cause you to use contempt in your response.

d.  Hit your strength if all else fails - the enemy can encourage you to step out too quickly in your anointing before God's timing. You can also move in presumption, assuming the Lord is behind you when He hasn't yet spoken. The enemy loves to watch you function in your pride by judging others and condemning their heart, when it hasn't been revealed yet.

1st Corinthians 10:5 - We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. 

Each day you are given an opportunity to be consciously aware and take every thought captive. The wrestling match is still in your mind, but it has also invaded your environment. Let's be prepared for the battles so we can be victorious and respond righteously!

In His Covenant Love,

Peace In Spite Of Technology

I was asking the Lord recently if there were some instructions in the Bible that would help believers who are distressed and discouraged; as well as fearful from the news, politics, articles and blogs on the internet, and of course all the Facebook dynamics. I heard Him direct me to Philippians. Of course my first thought was He would take me to chapter 4, verse 8, where we are instructed to let your mind dwell on these things including: whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, good report, excellence or worthy of praise. However I sensed in my heart the answers were actually found in the previous verses.

Paul was in prison in Rome when he wrote Philippians. He warned the brethren to beware of dogs, evil workers, false circumcision, enemies of the cross, and those who set their minds on earthly things. Obviously by these intense descriptions Paul was telling the believers to pay attention to his words if they wanted to experience peace. So as I studied the previous verses I found the words and definitions were not what they appear to be in our English translations. The following are verses translated in the Greek and Hebrew that bring greater clarity to Paul's directions. Let's look at verses 4-7.

Chapter 4:4 - Paul encouraged us to rejoice. In the Greek, chairo is related to charis, which means grace. So joy seems to be a result of God's grace. In other words we cannot sustain joy without God's grace. A great visual for rejoice is the Hebrew meaning of a young sheep or lamb skipping or frisking for joy.

Chapter 4:5 - Let your forbearing be known to all men which means appropriate, mild, gentle, moderate, patient. So regardless of the negativity around us through technology driven things we read or listen to, we can rejoice and forbear.

Chapter 4:6-7 - Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

When we hear "Be anxious for nothing," we may feel a little guilt, when we try to literally follow God's word. Many years ago, if a believer was a worrier, it seemed they exhibited a higher level of compassion or spirituality, especially when they prayed for everything and everyone that they were worrying about. The Greek word for anxious is to have care for, take thought for, or be troubled with cares. The root word presents the idea of distraction which means it is not healthy. However, to be anxious for nothing actually involves not being troubled with the cares of this world where it distracts you from life. Being concerned for someone enough to be able to pray and help is obviously not being anxious. We naturally have to be aware and ask ourselves in certain situations - "Is this producing real anxiety, stress, strife, anger or peace?"

Chapter 4:8 of Philippians lists items to dwell on and consider or examine our thoughts. We know there are three potential "people" talking to us in our mind: 1) Our own thoughts, 2) The enemy, and 3) Holy Spirit. Being able to discern where the thought is coming from will also help us to remain in peace.

Since we will probably continue to process information from many sources, I challenge you to discern and identify where information may come from, and its purpose. Rejoicing, forbearing and praying with thanksgiving may be another idea to help you remain peaceful.

Happy Technology!

Some Of My Personal Prayers

Prayer is one of the most intimate activities we can share with God. We are able to open our hearts and express our deepest longings and concerns with Him as our spirit connects and communes with heaven. During prayer we gain revelation and understanding as well as daily guidance and focus. Relationship with Jesus is built on a foundation of intimacy and relationship as we spend time with Him. We find in Matthew chapter six, Jesus instructing His disciples in what we know as The Lord's Prayer. Today, some choose special forms of prayer while others pray in their spirit language (Ephesians 6:18, 1st Corinthians 14:14). However you choose to pray to God, He knows where you are. He hears you and is with you.

In my early twenties I was greatly impacted by a Pastor named Dick Mills regarding prayer. He taught and shared with me some beautiful truths to pray and speak over myself and my family each day. This has become a part of my prayer time since then, as I meet and enter into conversation with Him. It has brought great peace, blessing and comfort to me, and I trust it will also encourage you.

I first name all my immediate family members as well as my Covenant Center family. I also remember and call out the name of others that come to my mind as I pray. I thank God for His blessings and goodness, as well as His remembrance of us all and His faithfulness. 

Next, I declare His twelve redemptive names - all which describe Jesus as our Lord and Savior. There are over 300 other names for Jesus which you may like to add as you declare His nature.

Jehovah-Tisidkenu - The Lord our righteousness
Jehovah-Makaddish - The Lord our sancifier
Jehovah-Rohi - The Lord our shepherd
Jehovah-Nissi - The Lord our banner of love
Jehovah-Rapha - The Lord our healer
Jehovah-Jireh - The Lord our provider
Jehovah-Shammah - The Lord is present
Jehovah-Shalom - The Lord our peace
Jehovah-Sabaoth - The Lord of hosts
Jehovah-El-Yon - The Lord most high God
Jehovah-El Shaddai - The God who is more than enough
Jehovah-Baal-Perazim - The God of breakthroughs

Lastly, I pray and declare the entire armor of God over us piece by piece, as found in Ephesians 6:11-17. Each piece of armor describes a quality and characteristic of Jesus. When we put on the whole armor of God, as described in Romans 13:14, we are putting on Jesus.

I usually pray in the order they appear, but it's not necessary. We put on the Belt of Truth first. Jesus, you are the way, the truth and the life. Next we put on the Breastplate of Righteousness, for Jesus, you are our righteousness. We shod our feet with the Sandals of the Gospel of Peace, and we thank you Jesus that you are the Prince of Peace. We follow next with the Shield of Faith in order to quench the fiery darts of the wicked one, and I thank you Jesus that you are the author and finisher of our faith. We put on the Helmet of Salvation, for you Jesus are the Captain of our salvation. We take in our hands the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God and we proclaim Jesus, you are the Word, according to John 1:1. And We also claim Lord, two extra enhancements: that you would dress us with zeal and clothe us with humility.

Prayer is simply talking with God. I enjoy spending time with Him and find myself more focused and energized when I simply include the above in my conversations with Him. This usually takes me about ten minutes. It's a great start to each morning, bringing peace and reminding me to keep my eyes on Jesus. May you be blessed each day and enriched during your quiet time together as you grow in relationship and intimacy with Him.

In His love,

A Time of Consecration And New Assignments

On March 27th I experienced a lovely and special dream. This dream was rich with depth of color and clarity signaling to me the importance to write it down and reflect in its message. As I finished documenting it, I prepared to check the date, and was surprised to see we were only three days till Passover. I found myself in a large gathering - a grand celebration was taking place with many people. There were some from The Covenant Center and some from abroad. Royally clothed priests walked among us in brightly colored robes of rich blue and gold. I was unable to make out their faces, but I knew they were priests/angelic beings assigned by the Father for this gathering. I along with others, were encouraged to go to various staging areas for prayer and blessing. I moved toward the first staging area where they handed out images of Baby Jesus, drawn on white paper and enclosed in an origami like navy art paper. Another priest then led me over to another area where I sat upon softly cushioned seats while they also prayed for me. I did not understand the language being spoken over me, but the peace and weighted presence surrounded me with love.

I returned to the dancing and celebration and was then escorted to the "last stage" walking through the areas of this grand place. It was stunning. I was released to stand in a massive doorway or gate, just like the ones I experienced while in Jerusalem. Throughout the stages or visiting points I was always guided to points for prayer, while the weightedness and waves of glory increased, ultimately bending me over until it was difficult to stand erect. I began to lean against the door frame of this large gathering trying with all my strength to stand as erect as possible to observe the merriment, when I suddenly heard a swish-swish of fabric heading toward me. By now I was bent at a 90 degree angle so I could only see the lower half of this being, who came toward me walking powerfully through the gate, majestically clothed in bright royal red and gold trim. As he passed by, the power he carried was so strong that I immediately fell to my knees and bowed low with my head to the ground. I had no control over my being. I never saw his face, but I knew immediately he was a very high ranking priest with the power to bend me over in reverence to his presence and cause my strength to completely expire. 

Unable to move I waited for assistance, when a young man finally came, taking my arm to assist me once again standing upright, while he jovially said with a twinkle in his eye, "I don't know how people would react if they knew Richard was bringing wine to church." I laughed and smiled at him saying with a wink that he should talk with Richard. I then excused myself and returned to join in the dancing and celebration.

Lastly, I was motioned toward an Art Fair with many compositions for sale. These icons were of great value and I was moved by their beauty and expression. I walked on to the pottery area in the back of the building when I heard a familiar song from my past. The song directed me to a couple where I began observing their conversation. One woman apologized while the other responded with, a shrug saying "Don't worry about it." I sensed that they were reconciling and chosing to lay down any hostilities toward each other. As they resolved their differences the chilly atmosphere change to complete peace.

I believe this dream was a message to prepare our hearts for the Passover season which encourages us to pray and ask God to consecrate us and our future with Him. It is a time to come before Him reconciling our relationship with God and with man. It is also a time of cleansing and preparation for Pentecost, soon appearing May 20th.

Which leads me into the following dream aligning with Passover and posturing us for Pentecost. Again, I found myself in a very large gathering with people from The Covenant Center as well as other countries. Even though I was not dressed in military regalia, I knew I had given my life for a great purpose. Everyone was waiting for their new assignments. A man who I believe was a general in this great army of citizens spoke again in an unknown language, as he prepared the letters/scrolls. Patiently waiting, he arrived in front of me, extending the scroll of paper and placing it in my hand. I opened the scroll and it read: "You are assigned to go up to the Mountain of the Lord." I immediately was transported to a snow covered mountain with others standing beside me. That very Sunday when I received this dream,  I literally entered our meeting room at The Covenant Center and what do you think I heard with my ears and saw with my eyes? Our psalmists were singing, "Come up to the Mountain of the Lord," while our technical staff placed a massive snow-capped mountain on our large screen. Only God could make such a plan..

I'm so glad He chooses to speak in a language we can understand. I've come to realize in days past He was often speaking to me and I missed many appointed moments because I didn't understand He was speaking. Even if you have not chosen to celebrate His Passover to Pentecost cycle, there is always time for you to build a relationship with Him. It's never to late to ask Him to reveal Himself to you and become familiar with Him, to begin celelbrating what lies ahead.

God brought these two separate dreams together, though received months apart, with clarity this past Sunday, during a time of great praise, worship, repentance and forgiveness, while reconciling ourselves to Him and others. We declared it is time to go up to the mountain of the Lord, followed by a fresh anointing and positioning for the coming year.

As the dreams suggest, Passover gives us the opportunity to surrender ourselves to His cleansing work and consecration (dedicating ourselves afresh to His divine purpose). And as we allow God's cleansing work to accomplish His desire in our hearts, we will find ourselves bowing low to His divine work of consecration in preparation for receiving His heavenly assignment.

He desires to come to you in this new season and reveal His plans, placing the "scroll" in your hands with a fresh assignment from heaven to continue to guide you through your life, into your future with Him.      

In His love,

Pentecost 2018

Fifty days after Passover, the Apostle Paul planned his travels so he could be in Jerusalem during Shavuot. It was to celebrate God's faithfulness with the early wheat harvest, which increased the hopefulness for a fall harvest (Sukkot). Later, the Rabbis while searching for historical facts, discovered that around the same time during Shavuot, Moses came to Mount Sinai  and was given the Law. In Acts 2, Paul talked about the outpouring of the Spirit with Tongues of fire which Christians today call Pentecost, (meaning 50 in the Greek).

When I was in prayer for this, regarding preparing and celebrating this feast, God seemed to emphasize three aspects of His love. All three are opportunities for us to release our love back to Him which seems appropriate for this particular feast.

The first is to love God and express our appreciation for His faithfulness and provision for us. The second is to love His written Word by studying and meditating on His Torah. The third is to release the love of His Spirit within us to others we come into contact with.

Pentecost is one of the Lord's major feasts according to Leviticus 23. I believe this is a time to 1) LOVE His Word (Torah). 2) It is also a time to develop our covenant LOVE relationship with Him (Holy Spirit). As a result of loving His Word and Spirit we will automatically 3) LOVE others as the Spirit motivates us from within!

This Feast is a wonderful time to love Him, His Word, and then put it into action by loving others.

In His covenant love,