The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham… and said… “GET OUT”! (Acts 7:2)
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Today, what is the Lord calling you to “GET OUT” of?

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• Debt
• Fear
• Unforgiveness
• Hatred
• Racism
• Loveless relationship
• Falsity
• A dead church
• From under certain leadership
• From a certain pace or relationship

​Today, what is He calling you to “GET OUT” from under the yoke of?
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There is so much God wants to do for us and in our lives. But the things we cling on to hinder or place handcuffs on the LORD and prevent Him from truly blessing us, cursing our enemies, and promoting us to new health, new wealth, a new mindset, a new heart, a new way of living, and even blessing us with new devils. Yes, I said new demons.
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Today, many of us only have to deal with little devils in our lives because we refuse to grow up, especially to grow up in Christ. We love our little status in life where we struggle with our health – saying, “this is my cross to bear” as so many erroneous teachers of Christ have wrongly taught us to believe. THIS IS NOT WHAT CHRIST HAS FOR YOU! Bad health – health problems of any sort. NO! This contradicts the Bible. The words God Himself has spoken. He said at Isaiah chapter 55, verse 1. “Ho! EVERYONE….” So, you see, these next few words He is about to speak, “EVERYONE” who wants it can have it. “Ho” (come), Everyone who thirsts. Come to the Waters and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”
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My goodness! Did you see that? God first invites you to come. Your part is to come. And if you choose to come. It is THEN and only THEN God can bless you (do His part). But not based on this world system of doing things. But based on His monetary, emotional, and spiritual way of doing things through His Kingdom and Kingdom works. So, come!

Notice in that verse, He mentions the natural way this world system does things. To obtain things in this world that you need, first, there is a price you must pay. Therefore, you must have money for the things you need. But God says if you ‘come’, in His system, for the things you need, there is no cost and you don’t need money (Isaiah 55:1). Are you not thirsty for a better life, for restoration, for healing physically, emotionally, financially, and spiritually? THEN COME!
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But for you to benefit from the ways that God’s system operates, you need to do as Acts 7:2 says. The word God expressed to Abraham, the one man He blessed so that he can be a blessing to all of mankind, which includes and benefits you and me. And that is YOU MUST BE WILLING TO “GET OUT”.
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​So, what is one thing God is calling us to GET OUT from among? Let’s take one example. 
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Oh, my goodness. This one word. This one act is preventing so many from not only coming as God has instructed us but it has handcuff God – preventing Him from really moving and changing our lives for the better.

So many of us are walking around in life and carrying the weight of unforgiveness. We refuse not to forgive our parents for their errors against us that happened –  what? 20, 30, 40 years ago. Some of us are walking around here hating on an ex, hating on our biological brother or sister. Even hating on a brother or sister in the faith for things they said or did to us out of fear, stupidity, hatred, jealousy, or some other form of sin they did against us. And this is hindering, preventing our forward progress and our blessings from the LORD.
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But the LORD says “GET OUT”. Get out so I can bless you. And you don’t have to do this alone. He knows it will be difficult for some. But you don’t have to do it alone. He wants to help you to “GET OUT” so He can really bless you. Turn everything around for you. But you, you have to handcuff Him in such a way that He cannot do it. He cannot move in your behalf. Because you refuse to do the things that He requires of you. Like
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C’MON NOW! FORGIVE.

Forgive the ignorance of your father, your mother, your brother, your sister, that friend who betrayed you, the ex that broke your heart, and the abuse and insecurity they caused in your life. Forgive the immaturity of people. Just forgive. So that the LORD can truly cleanse and bless you.
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Now be mindful, there is a difference between speaking with your mouth that you forgive from genuinely forgiving someone from your heart, within your spirit person, so that it changes your mind and how you feel towards and react towards that person. Because when we truly forgive others (no matter who it is) from the heart, which in turn will influence, affect, and change how we see and interact with that person. THEN AND ONLY THEN can God really move in our lives. Let me repeat that. 
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When we truly forgive others (no matter who it is) from the heart, which in turn will influence, affect, and change how we see and interact with that person. THEN AND ONLY THEN can God really move in our lives. (Compare to Matthew 6:14-15).
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Isn’t this what we want, what we truly need in our lives? For God to really move heaven and earth in our lives and in turn He opens up His heaven storehouse on our behalf. C’mon now. Just imagine that. God pouring out on your life and the lives of your children everything you need. We are going to come back to this point of how God does this in the book of Acts in a minute.
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God wants so much to bless you. But you will not have it. You will not allow Him to do so. (Compare to Matthew 23:37-39). How? Because you refuse to let it go and ‘GET OUT’! You refuse to do it because you are so set in your ways. Your ways! Your ways are killing you and your prosperity. Your future and your children’s future. It is hindering you. Preventing the LORD from really moving in your life. From pouring out all His gifts and blessings He has for you and only you.

Go back to the book of Acts, chapter 7. Look at this. Now, over the years, Abraham and his people (his children) experienced many different hardships. (They lack the blessings of God in their lives to the fullness).

There were many different things they had to go through that almost ruin them, wiped them out, and killed them. (Compare to John 10:10). But they eventually got it and understood the errors of their ways, the bad decisions they made. And what did they do? They REPENT – GOT OUT of the stupor they were in – their sins, bad decisions, unbelief, feeling of doubt, their hurts, hatred, unforgiveness, debts, etc. – whatever yoke that had that trapped and was hindering them from truly gaining God’s favor and blessings. Abraham and his children, over the years, all had to repent for the part that placed them in and under the yoke or burdens, they were experiencing. The strongholds that held them captive, in bondage for years. The troubles that captivated them. The pains and struggles they were suffering because they refuse to see and do things God’s way. But when they finally got it and understood the error of their ways and that the only way to succeed, and experience real prosperity, joy, peace, happiness, and love is through Christ and through true repentance and forgiving others for what they did to you. THEN God could forgive you. (Compare to Matthew 6:14-15). Then God can move in your life and heal and really bless you. Your truthful act of repentance, forgiveness, and getting out of your own mess, will enable God to truly move in ways in your life that will completely change your life. Notice what happened here in Acts chapter 7 to Abraham’s children after years of suffering and when they finally took the right steps to forgive, repent, and decide to get out of their situation.

At Acts chapter 7, starting in verse 7. It said.
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Did you see that! When we truly repent from the heart it will change our mindset about stuff that has happened to us in our lives over the years. THEN God can forgive us for our sins, cleanse us [take us through a process – (everyone's process is different) that will set us up to obtain everything God has for us]. Then He – God can move in our lives. Pour out a blessing until there is no longer want. (Compare to Philippians 4:19, James 1:17, Philippians 4:7).

Do you want that! Or should I ask, do you really not want this – what God has for you? Then first, find a way to truly repent and GET OUT of your mess (turn it around). That’s your part. We must always do our part FIRST. And when you truly have done this to a point and at a level God expects. Then God can truly bless you until your heart is completely content and full. He has done it for me. So, I know He will do it for you. 
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Also, listen to Felicia Crawford Ministry's Life Lesson - Take The Handcuff Off at 

​Is there something God wants to show you that you are causing to be delayed or hindered from seeing it because you are so tied and committed to your church’s commitments or dedicated to what your leaders want you to do for them or too loyal and devoted to what your family and or friends believe is right for you? And yet, we all often pray the following requests to God.

​BUT! Shortly thereafter, we slam the door to our promises because truly, we don’t want what God has or wants for us. We really don’t. We just want whatever pain or hardship we are experiencing to stop. We just want to live a comfortable lifestyle where we can do as we will with no accountability. Therefore, the above pray that many of us recite to God is really just superficial. Just a temporary method to stop the bleeding, and the pain, and to display a pretense to others that God is in what you are doing and experiencing. What hypocrisy! The prayers we cite are so fake because our motives are in the wrong place. For they are not about truly doing things God’s way, but our way.

So, what gives? Why do we as servants of God so often fake it? Why is it so hard to do what God says – that is to be obedient? Look, if I try to answer these questions, I’ll be here all day and you still won’t receive a word I say. So, let me not focus on that. Instead, let me draw your attention to something God said to Abraham while he was living in his native country of Chaldea with his family. 

Abraham is a significant figure throughout the Bible and plays an important role in mankind’s tradition and the history of religion. But to truly understand the role Abraham played in human history, we must know some basic background information concerning him.
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Abraham was a native of the county of Chaldea to which he was born in the city of Ur. At some point, Abraham had an encounter with God. To which God said the following to Abraham. 

​God wanted to release something to Abraham. But Abraham had to be a willing vessel and obey what God was requiring him to do. So, let’s explore what God wanted to release to Abraham and how Abraham responded to God’s requirements. 
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God made two significant promises to Abraham after telling him to leave his hometown and family and head in the direction God will show him. Now, we need to be mindful here that God did not reveal to Abraham where exactly God was sending him. All God told Abraham at this point was two things. (1) Leave your father’s house and (2) go. That was it.
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If Abraham was willing to follow these instructions, God made two promises to Abraham. (Also, see Genesis 12:2-3).
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​So, we see here, God formed a partnership or an agreement or covenant with Abraham and they each had a part to fulfilled in this relationship. God will do all the things that are listed in promises 1 and 2, but IF and only IF Abraham fulfills his part FIRST. I don’t want you to miss this point. In their relationship,
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​We have to be mindful of this. Many of God’s promises and or blessings are conditional. Meaning, that God will not fulfill the promises He has made, bless His servants, or answer many of our prayers UNTIL we fulfill our part FIRST. 

​So, when God instructed Abraham to move from his family, he obeyed although he did not know where God was sending him. (Compare Hebrews 11:8). Abraham trusted God implicitly to guide and direct him. As a result, for several years, Abraham migrated from place to place and lived in tents as he followed the leading of God to the place God was going to eventually show him. 

​In the New Testament, God’s instruction to Abraham is repeated at Acts chapter 7, in verse 1, where it says
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This is a good point to apply Abraham's encounter with God and the promised He made to Abraham to ourselves by asking. What is it that God wants to show you? Have you followed His instructions to see it? If you have not, you must ask yourself why? This is important to ask because remember the opening prayer I mentioned that many of us often recite.
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These are things we often say to God to gain something WE WANT. So, often these prayers are about and for us and not about God. We want something from God. In other words, we want God to do His part. But we do not want to commit to doing our part – whatever God requires of us.

And still, yet, we want God to bless us, to answer our prayers, to fulfill His promises He has made to us. And then we are shocked and often get upset with God when He fails to bless us, answer our prayers, or fulfill His promises.
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We still want God to show us the promise, or the land that He speaks of regardless if we are willing or do our part or not. What hypocrisy!

This morning, I do not know why God placed this topic on my heart. But nevertheless, I will discuss it. But let me address this question first – “where do my topics for discussion come from that I share on my social media platforms?”
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I do not want to sound super-spiritual or religious, but I know no other way to respond to this question. Truthfully, let me answer this question with two verses from the Bible. First at Luke 12:12 where Jesus said
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This statement by Jesus probably best describes my relationship and interactions with Jesus, God, and Holy Spirit. I really do not go looking at other people’s content on social media to see what they are talking about or looking for the latest trendy message or news that’s out there like some are known to do. I really don’t. I don’t even ask or beg God – “Oh, God give me something to say to the people that would inspire them and me.” NOPE! I do not do that either. And I don’t feel that I have to.
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Continuing on, Jesus goes on and says at John chapter 8, verse 28. 

This is how it always happens for me. I sit down for my traditional morning Bible reading & study time. And then when I less expect it, something I am reading just limps off the page at me. Then I start to hear words being spoken in my mind. Like an opening sentence to a story. I immediately sit down and listen to what I am hearing. As I am hearing what is spoken, I write down what I am hearing the LORD speaks to me. In that moment, I am like the LORD’s Scribe – capturing every word God dictates to me. I am God’s official or public secretary or clerk or communication agent as He once described me as. When describing me as His "communication agent", God’s Spirit took me to Jeremiah chapter 1 and had me read verses 7 through 9, which reads.
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The best way to describe this encounter with God from my perspective is like this. It is like God removes me from the physical place I am sitting and takes me into a courtroom setting in heaven. In that setting, you have a Judge’s bench, the witness stand, the defendant and plaintiff’s tables, the jury box, the public sitting area, and the clerk & court reporter. That last one is me – the clerk & court reporter.

Sitting in a public courtroom hearing, sitting right next to God, who sits on the Judge’s bench, I am His clerk & court reporter, capturing everything that is spoken by Him. 
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​​So, this morning, before I got ready for work, I was reading and studying my Bible lesson in the book of Acts; when suddenly, without warning, I kept hearing in my spirit two phrases – “relationships” and “disagreements”. I did not know why I was hearing these words repetitively. And then when I less expect it, I heard the beginning of a sentence. Before a complete sentence was stated, it would stop in the middle of the sentence and start the phrase all over again. This kept repeating until I finally realized it was the LORD speaking. So, I sat down and pulled out my pen and paper to record what the LORD had to say. What He wanted to speak concerning the thing(s) that was heavy on His heart this morning to His people, to a particular person who visits this platform this often. If He is speaking to you this morning, you will know it after reading this post because it certainly will prompt and pull at your heart. That’s God speaking to you through me saying, “Hey, listen, you are offended and you are not looking at this situation right. So, let me speak to your heart and correct the way you are handling this particular matter.” So, let’s get into what the LORD is saying this morning TO YOU.
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In relationships, it is only natural to have disagreements. Disagreements over words. Disagreements over actions. Disagreements over politics. Disagreements over any and everything. There is no way to avoid disagreements if you are human. (Compare to Acts 6:1; Acts 11:1-3; Acts 15:2, 7).
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But even with the contention that comes up between friends, lovers, family, and especially Christians, God has given us the ability to end all disputes. And this can be found in your character. Whatever kind of character or nature you possess often is displayed during times of disagreements or disputes. Especially with those you are close or forming new relationships with. For instance, we should ask ourselves. Will you use disagreements as an opportunity to understand the disposition of the other person? Can you properly discern whether or not the other person is trying to hurt or tear you down? Or are they trying to get you to see and understand another person's perspective that you would normally not see or overlook? Are you unknowingly being closed-minded concerning a matter? And is God using this person to open up your mind to something new or different from your usual way of seeing, thinking, or proceeding things? We have to be mindful that iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Do we fully understand what this actually means? Proverbs 27:11 reads
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​The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines sharpens as
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​​This is the goal or intent behind anyone who is trying to make you better than you are whenever you at odds with another or when one cannot see eye to eye on a matter. What another person says, or acts, or how they respond to you in time of disagreements should be done in such a way to sharper you. Hence, Proverbs chapter 27, verse 17 goes on and says.
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​What does this mean? The same dictionary defines “countenance” this way.  

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• Expressed both good humor and intelligence
• A calm expression
• Moral support

​​When a real (or true) friend challenges your perspective concerning a matter. It is not from the perspective of tearing you down. Or making social media comments that target you in hopes that you will read it and get the point. Or to make you look stupid. Or to embarrass you. Or to be negative. Or to disapprove of or show you disfavor. This is not the real aim of a real friend and a healthy growing friendship. If that is your view of your friend who disagrees or disputes with you, then you have to question

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1. Do I really know what it means to be in a healthy and thriving friendship?
2. Or, did you really ever see this person as your friend?

​​For every friend and or new relationship has disagreements. The closer you are, the more disagreements you will have. How you choose to view, handle, or resolve these disagreements will speak volumes about the nature of your true character. 

​With that being said, let’s end with this Scripture at Matthew 18:15-22. The first step that many, far too many of us skip is verse 15, which says. 
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It is our responsibility to approach our brother or sister that knowingly or unknowingly offended us and to tell them privately – “I was offended when you said when you did XYZ.” Your failure to approach your brother or sister or anyone for that matter, privately to air out, discuss, and resolve your dispute or disagreement with them speaks loudly to God about the nature of your character. Just the same, how your friend responds to your complaint says a lot about their character as well.
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To close out, you really need to read those remaining verses at Matthew chapter 18, verses 15 through 22. But for the sake of time, we are going to drop down to verses 21 and 22, where the Apostle Peter asked Jesus
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​Noticed how Jesus responded to Peter’s question which also applies to us today whenever and wherever anyone, especially in regards to our relationships/friendships – when knowingly or unknowingly offends us by words or deeds. Jesus said to Peter
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​Which simply means a lot –every time our friends offend us knowingly or unknowingly. So, go resolve your differences with your friends, relationships, and family, especially Christian relationships today. For God will hold each one of us accountable for every account and their lack in resolving any and every disagreement we have with our friends. 

God Almighty has a historical pattern with mankind. He constantly
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​Don’t be fooled by man’s wisdom and logic that one is being blessed by God based on man’s rationale; standards; the way he talks, walks, dresses, or or the flashing of his material gains or wealth. Nor by his ways, connections, or logic. Man’s ways are fool's gold. It always looks like the real thing but it is worth nothing. But God’s ways. His system. His processes are pure as gold. One you cannot put a value on it. IT IS PRICELESS. 

​DO NOT FORSAKE THE GATHERING. I have heard so many prophets and pastors quote and misrepresent this verse with alternative motives. DO NOT FORSAKE THE GATHERING. What does this really mean when the Hebrew writer wrote? 
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Our confession of our hope will never waver as long as we gather in some church with other brothers and sisters? Is this what this verse means? NO!
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Here it is referring to our salvation not wavering because it is grounded not in a church, not in our pastor, not in our leaders where we gathered in a physical build with other saints. NO! But we do not waver because our hope is in the One that promised was made to us. It is certainly not in any man or the place men want to gather. It is in Jesus Christ our Messiah and not a physical location or building. 
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We have to be mindful, that in the past, or in the Old Testament, God had one primary way to communicate to His people. And that was through His prophets. We see this time and time again in the Scripture. But a shift occurred in the New Testament. The one we had been waiting for. The prophets were waiting. God’s people were waiting for had come. And when he came, he settled all matters concerning the sins of man which made us eligible to be in right standing with God once again – as we were in the beginning, in the Garden of Eden. This meant man could once again have direct access to God through the redemption Jesus had completed for all of mankind at the cross.

This is why the Bible writer of Hebrews states. “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things…. (Hebrews 1:2)

Paul confirms this at 1 Corinthians 3:16 when he said. Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?
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At 1 Timothy chapter 3, verse 15, Paul said. …I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. Here Paul speaks of the House of God – the tabernacle of God – a physical place of worship – a physical building or meeting place. But this is not a building built by men – the hands and spirit and will of man. An assembly of men hosting a prep rally boasting about 

• How to have your best life now
• 10 steps to a better you
• How to get God to serve you

​NO! This church which Paul speaks about is a church that is erected and built by God through a selected few men that host the Spirit of the Living God. Where God dwells, runs, and oversees the going on in such a house. Because His Spirit is there. Because it is His. It belongs to Him and not man. 

It is Jesus, our High Priest, the Melchizedek that intercedes for us (Psalm 110:4). And all he needs is 2 or 3 to gather in a home, at a church, in a ministry, or even in the woods. The meeting place does not matter, is nonessential as far as God, Christ, and Holy Spirit are concerned. It really does not matter. So long as true worshipers of God are gathered. He does not need 100, two thousand, or even a million to meet for His presence to dwell and be activated for His purpose to be done. He just needs 2 or 3 (Matthew 18:20). He just needs 2 or 3 to meet together anywhere at any given time and there He should be. 

​If many of you young leaders keep listening to these bobblehead preachers out here and do not follow the directions and connections God is pointing you to. You will find yourself left behind with no anointing nor power or even an audience and a lack of influence. 

Too many of us are trying to remain faithful to an old system that God is no longer using. When God raised Joshua, Moses’ successor. The Israelites, God’s people had to learn to become warriors – soldiers; and literally put on their battle fatigues and fight for their Promised Land that God had promised them. Those who refused to get with the change, the shift God had made and put on the new mantles, a new outlook, a different perspective, and a new attitude. They died in their stubbornness, both physically and spiritually. (Compare to Exodus 16:3; Numbers 13:27-29; Numbers 16:1-40).

These men and women and far too many of God’s leaders refused to change, to move in the new direction God was showing them. They refused to make room and elevate those God was calling to the frontline of the battle as leaders. Just as Moses did with Joshua. 

​​Today, we have too many bobbleheads in the pulpit (yes men and women). Leading far too many to their deathbed, both spiritually and physically. Too many refuse to acknowledge and move forward with today’s Joshua (the new wineskin) because they still want to praise Moses (the old wineskin). (See Joshua chapter 6 and chapter 10, verse 40).

Look y’all know I must speak what the LORD tells me even when I am not feeling it. Sometimes, I don’t want to do or say what the LORD has put in my spirit. But there are two things in this season particularly that God is not going to continue to tolerate. (1) A lying prophet – these include apostles. (2) A spirit who is quick about speaking evil towards his brother or sister (I’m speaking about those in the faith).

Now, this post is specifically directed toward a specific person. [I don’t know what this person calls themselves nowadays because this person keeps changing their titles (prophetic office) too often]. I guess it depends on which way the wind is blowing. At any rate, I’m purposely not stating the individual name, not out of fear or anything like that. But because God hasn’t released me to do so. But He is watching because this person will see this specific post. The LORD will assure of it.
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With that being said. This is what the word of the LORD is saying to this particular person, but many of us can benefit from what is being said here today as well. 

I stated in an April 1 post that no one can “claim or steal” God’s glory. “Claiming I did this or my ministry did that.” Or claiming to prophesy, I prophesy this and it resulted in XYZ. 🤨  “Only God is deserving of this glory…. Because His Son has already done it at the CROSS!!” 🙌✝

Despite that Jesus (the Son of God) has already done it. There are some who will scroll (or should I say troll) sites like Facebook, and see or suspect what may be going on in your life. And then foolishly declare to or about you – whether directly or indirectly. “I prophesy” and then declare a specific miracle (associated with what they read or know about your situation). Or make some vague or general declaration in hopes when things turn around for your situation, they can declare to those they know and even to you – see I told you. I prophesy concerning you. 🙄🤨😒😕
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Most of us know what plagiarism is. Just in case you don’t. Plagiarism is when we claim we personally came up with an idea (or in this case) a prophetic word yourself when you did not. It is when one failed to acknowledge their dependence on someone’s else work (or in this case) upon the LORD. When a person refuses to give proper credit or thanks to the person who originally engineered an idea (or in this case) God reveals or provides one with prophetic wisdom or knowledge concerning a matter he or she would not otherwise have known. Too many do this in ministry, especially relating to divine revelation or prophetic words. (Compare to Jeremiah 23:30-31; also see Ezekiel 7:3; 12:24). Just like some are robbing the House of God by means of their tithe and offering. There are prophets and some apostles that are robbing God of His due credit when giving prophetic words in exchange for gaining their own glory and self-promotion. (Compare to Malachi 3:8). 
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Look! I really don’t know what God is going to do in my case. But I am standing on His Word. I am trusting He will be faithful to His Word because I have been faithful to Him. “Pure” as He often calls me.
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I do feel similar to the three Hebrew boys situation, who were about to be thrown into the fiery burning furnace for refusing to bow down to King Nebuchadnezzar's golden statue and worship it. At Daniel chapter 3, verse 17, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego said to the king.
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​So, they knew that their God was able. And they were confident that He would do it in their case. Why?

​​Now, as confident the three Hebrew boys were about God being able to deliver them. They knew there was a small chance God wouldn’t do it. So, this is what they said in agreement concerning this possibility. 
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To them, even if God did not rescue them. They were going to be obedient to the Word of the LORD no matter what.

Now, we know the king did throw them in the furnace. (See verses 20-23 of Daniel chapter 3). But what happened next left the king and those watching, which included all the king’s servants and the entire nation of Israel (God’s people) to be amazed by man’s power? No, God’s delivering power. They all saw in the furnace with the three Hebrew boys another image (a fourth person). (See verses 24-25 of Daniel chapter 3).

God sent His angel to deliver the three Hebrew boys from the hands of the king. (See verses 26-30). God did not send another man or woman with a prophetic word to save them. Instead, by means of His Spirit, He sent His angel to recuse them.
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Throughout this process, the three Hebrew boys did not declare that one of them would come up with a plan to escape the hands of the king. Nor did they or anyone else declare that some other man or woman will come along to do it. They put their complete trust in God. Because they knew He was able and capable to do it. The three Hebrew boys had no interest in trying to take or steal God’s credit or glory. They knew, if it happened, only God was deserving of such credit – not even God’s angel dared to declare He did in His own strength or will. And the people acknowledge this too as well. The king, his guards, and all of God’s people had to relent, repent, and acknowledge God’s glory. The deliverance power of God on behalf of the three Hebrew boys. 
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Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrew 13:8). He does not need help to deliver His people from the grip of the evil one and the instruments he uses. Because He has already done it at the cross through His Son Jesus. And yet, God chooses to use man anyways. We have to take in consideration Genesis chapter 1, verses 26-28, where God has given “dominion to man over all living things.” Then there is Psalm 115:16, which says that the heavens belong to God, but the earth He has given to the children of men. Then there is men like Moses, whom God chose to use, to deliver His entire nation, Israel, from the grip of Pharaoh (Exodus chapters 5 through 12; also see Exodus chapters 3 and 4).
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It is within God’s right to choose to use a man or woman to assist Him in delivering His people - and this includes cases like miracles such as healing. But when God chooses to use someone, that person is chosen and knows beforehand. (Compare to Exodus chapters 3 and 4; Amos 3:7).  Not after the fact or after coming across or learning about a matter much later. It is God who reveals all matters to those whom He trusts as His prophets. And yet, there are some prophets who are trying to steal God’s glory by prophesizing this or that miracle based on information they have gathered and not a true word or revelation from God. Attempting to declare credit that they would not otherwise have known if it was not for them trolling social media accounts for details. This is witchcraft – practicing sorcery. Please stop trying to steal the Father’s glory. 
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For instance, in my case, God has already done it at the cross. And if God wants to share his credit (i.e. glory) with another, it is He that will point out to whom is deserving. It is a sin on our part to try to declare what God has done for our own self-promotion or ministry. If anyone is deserving of what He is about to do in my case. No one is more deserving than my ministry partner, Felicia Crawford, who has prayed over me day and night. She probably wants my healing more than I. No one has clearly and directly received a Word from the LORD concerning me and my health than she. And she is the only one that has legitimately prophesied the Word of the LORD concerning my situation beforehand and not after the fact. And I know, with all that being said and all she has done on my behalf, she still will not dare proclaim credit for what the LORD has already done and will do in my case.

Yet, let the record show. If God does not act on my behalf for some odd reason. I am taking the same position as the three Hebrew boys. I will not compromise by not trusting what the LORD has prophesied in my case or spoken in His Word. I trust Him and my life is in His hand. And He will not allow another prophet to declare in my case beforehand what He has not revealed to them so that they can get His glory.
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So, as prophets and apostles, we need to be careful and beware of what we declare, especially if the LORD has not spoken a thing to us. We need to stop trolling other people’s social platforms and then declaring, that the LORD is about to… - and declaring we have foreknowledge about something when we do not. That is lying, stealing, and declaring the Father has revealed something to you when He has not. 

Jesus made a very powerful statement to Jewish leaders who were questioning his authority to heal on the Sabbath. In fact, these leaders were seeking to kill Jesus for doing what he was sent to do and for speaking truth. Now, I do not want to get sidetracked by the Jewish leaders’ unrighteous acts. So, let me stick to the point the LORD has placed in my spirit this morning to address.

Here’s the statement Jesus made to these Jewish leaders when they questioned whose authority was Jesus submitting under to do and say the things he was doing and saying. Jesus' response was.
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My usual go to Bible version for this Scripture is the New American Standard Bible, which says

But for the purpose of this post, let’s go with the NIV version because it simplifies it and makes it even more clear.

Now, I can take this one verse in many different directions based on what is going on in my head based on some pushback I have been getting. But I have learned, that whenever I do things to try to defend my position, preference, way of thinking, or because I felt I was wronged or misunderstood by someone. These types of battles are fruitless and really a waste of my time and energy. So, I have learned the true value of Jesus’ words when he said
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This is why all men should strive not to follow the footsteps of their own mindset but that of Christ (1 Peter 2:21, 1 Corinthians 11:1). For Christ has set the standard for all of us – not to do or say anything based on our own will, judgment, or the way we see or prefer things. All things should be done and said based on how God is leading us and that should always harmonize with the Scriptures. 

That statement is so powerful because it is God-led and God-centered and not based on man’s ideology or agenda. It is not tainted by man’s determinology to outwit another, to win an argument, or to prove another’s point of view is wrong. (Yea, I kind of made up a word for emphasis).

When we come in the name of Jesus based purely on his directions and under his authority. Meaning we are only vocalizing what he tells us to say or do. THEN, when we speak a thing, the instructions we give or the judgment we state will ALWAYS be just (fair, righteous, and unbiased). Because we are not coming in our own initiative or authority, our own name with the pretense of calling it A WORD FROM GOD. Because we do not seek our own will, but only the will of the one that sent us – that is Jesus Christ. For his will is always fair, just, and righteous.

And this has become my walk. To “do nothing on my own initiative or authority”. But to only do the will of Christ whose have given me the authority to act and speak on his behalf. It is under his authority that I submit. And it is under his righteous rule and direction that I do a thing and speak. What other authority is there needed or even can compare or be equal to than his? Please show me. Because it is certainly not the authority of unrighteous man that we should be following or giving our allegiance to. 

With that being said, for at least two years now. It has become a common practice of mine that if the LORD tells me to do. I do. If the LORD tells me to go. Then I go. If the LORD tells me to speak. Then I speak thus saith the LORD. And if LORD is not providing me instructions. Then I do and say nothing.

What’s the point here? Why am I bringing up all this?

Recently, I posted content surrounding this weekend’s Passover activities. And some did not take to well concerning the particular section of my post subhead titled - WHEN WORSHIP IS MISDIRECTED AND ALIGNS WITH FALSE GODS AND TEACHINGS. Rarely do I respond to individuals' inquiries concerning my posts. I strongly feel what I post, and how a person receives it or not is between them and God. But I felt compelled by God to reply to this one constant comment that I kept hearing among a few folks. And this was the comment. 

And they are absolutely right. The Bible does not bring up these terms or subjects. But we have to be mindful of why the Bible does not mention specifically these things. Look at the time frame when these holidays in particular were invented. These things did not come into play until long after the Bible was written. In addition, these were not things that Jesus nor his disciples ever considered, wrestled with, or even given thought to. Because they were not a part of their culture, celebrations, festivals, or traditions. So, why would God inspire the writers to write about such these kinds of things that were non-existed? (Compare to 2 Timothy 3:16) Why would the Bible writers write about holidays that they had no knowledge or understanding about when there was no such thing as Christmas, Easter, etc. during their era?

And I would add this one other point that was stated by Ron Charles, the author of Truth Unedited. In his YouTube video, WHO IS EASTER? UNDERSTAND THE MOTHER GODDESS. He encouraged his viewers to consider Jeremiah’s words spoken in chapter 44, verses 15 through 28. In this chapter, Ron brings out the following points: (This was an interaction between all of God’s people and God’s prophet, Jeremiah).
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God was making it very clear to His people to beware of any and every false god that is out there that was created and worshipped by men. These false gods are always tied in with celebrations, festivals, holidays, traditions, and doctrines by men that are not pleasing to God. We do not want to be like the Israelite nation who boldly declared before a living God. We will not listen. We will do what is pleasing in our hearts. They refused to listen. Therefore, through His prophet Jeremiah, God declared – We shall see “… whose words will stand. Mine or theirs.” (Jeremiah 44:28)

Wow! God isn’t playing when it comes to how His servants should and should not worship Him.

My final thoughts. I never speak what I do speak or share because I expect any or everyone to do as I say. To believe as I believe. To even follow my lead. NOPE! That is not my interest or expectation. I speak what I speak because it is what the LORD has given me to speak. REGARDLESS if any or everyone receives it or not. This should be the mentality of any and everyone that the LORD gives a word to speak. Is this not what the LORD said to the prophet Ezekiel? In chapter 2 of the book of Ezekiel, Jehovah God said to Ezekiel the following.
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God knew His own people were not going to listen. That they would refuse and reject His prophets. Because they are a rebellious nation and they are determined to do whatever they believe is right in their own eyes. Something the Scriptures clearly condemn.
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God was instructing Ezekiel not to go in his own name or authority. Therefore, Ezekiel never spoke what he thought was best to speak or address. God instructed Ezekiel to go to His people and speak in the name and authority of God. And whether they listen to Ezekiel or not was not the point. Ezekiel's part was to speak on God’s behalf. This too was the case with Jesus, Jesus’ disciples. And this is the case with me as well. I do not come in my own name or in the name of another. When I speak, I speak under the authority of Jesus Christ (Yeshua), the Son of the living God (Elohim - YHWH - Adonai).  REGARDLESS if God's people receive it or not. Therefore, concerning my post made on Saturday, April 16, titled Passover. I stand by every word spoken. And I stand on the side of the truth. For God's Word is truth, to which the LORD said. (Compare John 17:17).

As Christians, Kingdom citizens of God’s Kingdom. We have to be mindful and as well as reminded that the deliverance of God’s people, the Israelites, was a process. Deliverance is rarely instantaneous – although it is possible to be delivered from a situation immediately. Deliverance is usually a long drag out process that involves the mind, heart, and soul (physical involvement and movement on the part of the one being delivered).
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A good example of this is the 10 plagues God brought upon Pharaoh and the Egyptians. It took a considerable time to get Pharaoh to release the Israelites. This deliverance resulted in two things (two understandings) among the Hebrews, Pharaoh, and Pharaoh's subjects. 
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​The Israelites experienced four major phenomena under God’s grace as He delivered them out of the hands of Pharaoh. 

​The entire point of the Hebrews' exodus experience from the hands of Pharaoh, the Egyptian king, was not only to set the Israelites free from bondage. But also, to show or prove to the Hebrew nation that God’s hand is on the lives of His people. Or as many like to say it. ‘God is in control.’

Therefore, we, as God’s people, can trust Him with all our hearts, all our mind, and all our strength. (Compare to Deuteronomy 28:1-2; 6:1-9).

The demonstration of God’s deliverance power was an indication to God’s people that they need to ADUST their lives to His way and not the other way around where man tries to force God to adjust to their preferred way of living; which often time involves the installation (inauguration) and institutionalizing (incorporating) of idol worship to false gods, false traditions, and pagan teachings. In this way, when man follows the protocol or the programs (as man likes to call it); in the manner and as God has outlined for us. It is then, and only then, that God can bless us as His children. (Again, compare this to Deuteronomy chapter 28; Deuteronomy chapters 5 and 6).​

God is firm about His ways and His Word. Therefore, He is adamant about His children following the path He has carved out for them. To do so otherwise, will only make our journey difficult and lead us into the arms of unmerciful tyrants like Pharoah.
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This weekend is no different from God’s perspective and the expectation He sets before His people. “Obedience is better than a sacrifice.” This is what the LORD declared through his prophet Samuel. The Prophet Samuel said
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​Samuel goes on and explains. Whenever our worship of the Supreme God of the universe, exhibits any, ANY form of disobedience to the instructions and directions He has given. It is rebellion. It is sinful. It is witchcraft. It is stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols (1 Samuel 15:23). Why such a strong correction? Because to the LORD, when we fail to be obedient to His voice, His command, His direction – we have rejected the command of the LORD. We are rejecting Him as our King (1 Samuel 15:23). 

Unfortunately, during the most celebratory weekend of the year, most churches will join together to celebrate a false religious god called Eostre or Eastre. Eostre originates with the Saxon people as their great mother goddess or god. She was significant because she brought about the rebirth of life in the springtime, which was symbolized by a rabbit and egg – which both were sacred in this culture. Such traditions became a part of the Church's practices and doctrine, years later, after some members of the gentile nation converted to serve Elohim (God). Far too many did not truly abandon their pagan style of worship. They inserted their traditions and celebrations into the church. Instead of the church taking a stance against such corruption and hypocrisy. They embraced it and incorporated it into their service and worship to the LORD. As a result, instead of the Church celebrating the Passover. Many will give their allegiance to Eostre or Eastre or Easter – a false foreign god, during their weekend services.

We have to be mindful that the tradition of man has nothing to do with the Kingdom. Such traditions as Easter are considered idol worship before a holy God. And this only leads to religious bondage for many Christians. 

​Simple put! Easter is not a celebration of Jesus - Yeshua, the Messiah. The Scripture makes it very clear. Jesus is called “the Passover” (1 Corinthians 5:7-8).

​Whenever God acts or speaks, it is always for a specific purpose. Isaiah chapter 55, verses 10 and 11 explain. Just like rain and snow fall to the ground from heaven to “cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry” (both man and beast). So, it is concerning God. Whenever He speaks a thing, it must product fruit (results) to whatever degree that man? No! To whatever degree that God commands or desires. Job, a blameless, upright, and God-fearing man said at Job chapter 37, starting with verse 1
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The heaven and all its elements must do as Adonai (the LORD) commands or desires – whether this is in the form of correction, blessing, grace, or mercy. The earth and all that is in it must respond to the word (the command) of our Yeshua (Savior) Hamashiach (Messiah). God’s word will not return to Him void (empty). The Prophet Samuel continues by saying. It SHALL accomplish what the LORD pleases. It SHALL prosper (flourish, overgrow, bloom, triumph, succeed, thrive) into God’s desired results. Just like a farmer’s seed. Whenever he properly plants and cares for it, it will surely mature, grow, and produce for him beauty and food for him, his family, and even his entire community. Even more, the word of the Lord, when He speaks. It is a means by which God provides for His people and this crooked generation, along with all beasts. This is why God is good and merciful. He provides all by His Word – the words He speaks (commands). 

This leads us back to the Israelites' deliverance from the hands of Pharaoh. It was Adonai’s (the LORD’s) desire to bring back His people under His righteous covenant. As part of the deliverance process from bondage under the tyrannical god of Egypt, Pharaoh. God gave to His people 613 laws for them to govern their lives by. Of which, ten of them, most of us are somewhat familiar with. (See Exodus chapters 19 and 20). 

​Again, God spoke these words because they serve a specific purpose for His people:

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• To deliver
• To protect
• To teach
• To witness
• To demonstrate
• To instruct

​His words taught His people how to serve a holy and righteous God. God was expecting His people to adjust their lives to His ways and His way of doing things. His words spoken were to enforce and reestablish a righteous and holy covenant with all who were willing to submit and follow His ways. The purpose in which His convent served was to make us as His people, holy and fruitful and acceptable before Him.
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God’s people (the Israelites) deliverance did not occur instantaneously. His people were forced to watch and wait on the moving hand of the LORD. They had to wait until after the Passover meal was completed and after the angel of death had passed over each of their homes before the LORD spoke and commanded – GO. They had to wait on the Spirit of the LORD. 

God is very specific about how He wants His people to worship Him. He clearly outlines His expectations of how this should and should not be done in His Word. If we want to be honorable servants to His Word, we will work hard to not twist and distort His Word and expectations to meet our own personal agendas, preferences, or gain. To do so otherwise brings into question our devotion to Christ.

In this world, we can easily succumb to the wiles (tricks and schemes) of the devil not simply because we are human. But because this world is filled with customs that we fail to take the steps to understand the origin of these different customs. It is easier for us to just accept them without questioning is this something I and my family should participate in? Or even more importantly, is this a practice not only would God approve, but would He Himself join in the celebration with us?

Most of us are so enticed by customs and celebrations because we simply want to fit in and not stand out. Because it is basically natural and easier to do what everyone else is doing. And simply because this is what has been passed down to us from our parents. We as a human race refuse to question or challenge some of the things that have been passed down to us. And that in itself can be the thing that can bring us to ruin. Our failure to question. Our failure to investigate and verify things for ourselves. (Compare to Acts 11:17). Even when these things are passed down to us by our parents. 
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Let’s take Godly devotion and worship. As I mentioned before, God makes it clear through His Word how we should and should not worship Him. One explicit instruction He gave to His people was to not get involved in any forms of worship (this would include customs and celebrations) that the surrounding nations (worldly people) were doing.

At Leviticus chapter 18, verses 2 through 3 God said to His people. (This instruction was given to Moses). “Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. I am the LORD your God. So DO NOT ACT LIKE the people in Egypt, where you use to live, or like the people of Canaan, where I am taking you. You MUST NOT IMITATE THEIR WAY OF LIFE” (NLT). 

​God was very clear. Whatever practices, celebrations, customs, rituals, festivals (which would be our holidays today) that the Egyptians and Canaanites (which would be similar to the nations around us today) – DO NOT BECOME LIKE THEM; DO NOT DO THE THINGS THAT THEY ARE DOING; DO NOT CELEBRATE THE THINGS THEY ARE CELEBRATING.
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God calls His people to live a holy lifestyle. In doing so, He instructs His people at Deuteronomy chapter 18, verse 9. “When you enter the land the LORD your God is giving you, BE VERY CAREFUL NOT TO IMITATE THE DETESTABLE CUSTOMS of the nations living there (NLT). Now, in verse 10 of that same chapter, God provides a simple list of SOME of the things the people of that land were doing that were considered “detestable” to God. But He certainly did not list them all. There were a whole host of things the people of that land were doing that God did not approve that He did not want His people involved in. And the different type of festivals and celebrations the people of that land were participating in was definitely among that list of things that God was not pleased with. 
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God was particular about how He wanted His people to worship Him. (See Luke 4:8). He was clear that He did not want His worship tainted by other man-made deities, practices, customs, or celebrations adopted and created by the surrounding nations. (See Exodus 20:3-5). He did not want to share His worship, His celebrations, His festivals that He granted His people to partake in with any other gods. Nor did He want His people to be divided on this matter. And yet, since the beginning of mankind’s history, man has ignored this warning.

The Scriptures warn, “a little leaven leavens the whole lump” (Galatians 5:9, NKJV). The Greek word for “leavens” is zymoō, which means to mix leaven with dough so as to make it ferment. The Apostle Paul spoke of leaven this way. “Your glorying (boasting) is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven (yeast) leavens the whole lump? (1 Corinthians 5:6)

Here the Apostle Paul is CONDEMNING God’s people for tolerating any single small act of immorality that offends their God. It does not matter what the act is. God’s people should never tolerate any acts or behaviors or customs or celebrations or festivals that are displeasing to their God. PERIOD.

Hence why the LORD commands His people at Deuteronomy chapter 6, verses 3 through 4, “… fear the LORD your God… keep all His statutes and His commandments…. Be careful to observe it…. Hear… the LORD our God the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength."
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There is no greater way to show God this kind of love than by adhering to His command to have “no other gods before” Him or “any likeness of anything” to resemble worship to Him (Exodus 20:3). For God is a jealous God and He is not willing to share His praise, worship, celebration, or devotion. 
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We as the people of God got to seriously consider the Words of the LORD deeply. Truly understanding what God means when He says, He is a jealous God and He will not tolerate the idolizing, the praising, the worshiping, nor the celebrating of any other kinds of worship. Especially those that are shared or incorporating worship that is from a pagan origin. 

Here is where the problem lies for God’s people today when considering the Scriptures mentioned previously in this article. Christians today read them as if that verse only applies to God’s people during that time. They often fail to apply what they are reading to a modern time frame – according to the culture and time we are living in today. Whenever we fail to do this, then how can we fully benefit from Scriptural application in our lives today? How do we properly gain God’s heart and expectations on matters if we read His Word, particularly the Old Testament as if it is some fictional story? Especially when Paul wrote, “ALL Scripture is inspired by God and IS USEFUL TO TEACH US what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives….” (2 Timothy 3:17, NLT) Paul said that all Scripture is good for reproof (punishment, admonishment), correction, instruction (training, discipline) in righteousness…. 

​Again, the Apostle Paul even addresses this manner at Romans chapter 15, verse 4. He said, “for whatever things were written before….” Here, this phrase, “was written before” is the Greek word prographō. This simply means to write before the eyes of all who can read. In other words, we are reading it (the Scriptures) today but these things took place before our time. Therefore, the things, the instructions, the prophesies, His laws and decrees “were written before” – notating what has taken place in the past but for our benefit today. For the Scriptures which was written before any of us were born was written for our understanding and application in the culture in which we live in today. 
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With that being said. We have to learn to apply the things that are spoken of in the past concerning God’s people and how they apply to us today. How do we apply them in our modern society? Failing to do so can mean not only not living up to God’s standards, expectations, will, and commands. But it can also mean the loss of our lives, our heavenly hope, for failing to live up to God’s righteous standard.

Now, before any of y’all flip and insert that I am saying something that I am not. Let me make it clear. I am not saying, people will not make it into heaven because they choose to celebrate certain pagan customs or holidays. That is not for me to judge or decide. But it does build a case against you and provides Satan the legal rights to make your life complicated and to challenged God concerning who you actually belong to – who has rights to you – him or God. It is that serious.

This is why we all must take the standards of God seriously. We must understand that He does have expectations that He expects us to adhere and live up to. We as God’s people do not get to pick and choose which standards we get to adhere to and which we can dismiss because we personally believe that principle or law no longer applies. We must dig deep and really determine what is God’s heart concerning a manner. And allow God to reveal it to us and not our culture or even our flesh (our desire or personal preferences). 

Now, this leads me to speak what God has placed on my heart today. 
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Customs – man-made customs are such a dangerous thing. For our participation will often lead us astray from the Father’s will and desire for His people. Bible History has proven this time and time again. Go back to Paul’s words at Galatians 5:9. A little bit, “a little bit of leaven leavens the whole lump.” In verses 7 through 12 of that chapter, Paul severely condemns false teachings and any customs or practices associated with them. The source of such practices, no matter when they originated is essential and matters to God. You cannot discredit their origin no matter how you want to flip it. 

Let me be a little clearer. Many Christians have adopted such practices into their Churches and homes such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween, birthday, Valentine's Day, etc. (I used the word adopted because these customs were not established by God, but by man). Most Christians have chosen to ignore the origin of these customs and how these customs were inserted into the Church. Most Christians have failed to acknowledge how God sees the connection with such celebrations are like sharing God’s worship with another. You are incorporating something God did not establish for His people and calling it a tool being used to honor (praise and worship) God. Something that God has forbidden for His people to do. 

​Let’s take Christmas for instance. Some Christians make this pagan celebration acceptable by declaring such things as – 
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​As a result, the school board’s attempt to ban the Christmas celebration in their school failed because it was determined by the court that Christmas was not a religious celebration nor did it have any Biblical roots. It was a pagan (worldly) in nature since its conception. In fact, its origin can be affiliated with Roman customs and religion (false gods) and not with God’s people or even Christ. 
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​Two simple research can easily prove to any Christian God’s stance on such matters. 
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​We have to go back to what Paul said at Romans 15:4, Galatians 5:9, and the writings of Moses at Exodus 20:3-4. This custom as well as others do not bring honor nor glory to God but only glories the hands and the imaginations of man through their gift-giving to one another and entertainments (gatherings for socializing and partying activities). We must ask ourselves, is God really gaining anything from such celebrations? The answer is a resounding nothing! Celebrating such holidays are being done in vain and has no use to God. 

We cannot have it both ways. Our fleshly customs, desires, and godly worship and celebrations and the LORD our God. God renounces such sharing of His worship with any other pagan god. In fact, the LORD declares if we refuse to turn away from such pagan practices, we will become like them. (See Psalm 115:1-8).

You can agree to disagree with me. Many of God's people often agree to disagree with God's prophets, apostles, and even His Son, Jesus Christ. The fact is, it really does not matter to me one way or another. My goal here was to only speak what the LORD has placed on my heart whether you receive it or not. (Compare to Ezekiel 2:4-7; 3:17-21).