​There is a promise that GOD has personally spoken to each one of us. A promise that will bring many of us a level of notoriety. Notice what the LORD said to Abraham. 
​

​Notice, it is the LORD that will make your name and your mission stand out among many. But before you can reach such heights. There is always a waiting period. Why? Because there is always a process and a long pruning season you must undergo to ensure your success. So, let’s talk about this waiting period in more detail and see how we can benefit from it. 
​

​Let’s go back to Acts chapter 9. As we recall, Saul, who was a Pharisee, was on his way to the city of Damascus to capture any Christians he could bring back to Jerusalem to jail them for their faith. But as we discussed in my last blog, Why Are You Persecuting Me. His plans were derailed by the LORD, which led to Saul’s encounter with Christ and his conversion to Christianity. As a result of this encounter, it completely changed the trajectory of Saul’s career and lifestyle. 
​

​Now, we have to be mindful that Saul had already made a name for himself by the time he experienced his encounter with Christ. It was said about him at Acts chapter 9, verse 13 by the prophet Ananias. 
​

Saul was well known. He had a certain reputation among the people that made many afraid of him. But this would soon change. For as we know. GOD always works all things out for the good of HIS people and individuals involved. (Compare to Romas 8:28). This leads us to Saul’s encounter with Christ. After Saul met Jesus on the road of Damascus and was suddenly blinded by Jesus’ bright appearance. Saul asked Jesus. 
​

Jesus gave Saul the following instructions.
​

Saul had to go to a certain city and now wait there until Jesus provided him with his next set of instructions. During those 3 days that Saul sat in the house of Judas on Straight Street, we can say he underwent a complete metamorphosis. Due to the loss of his sight that was caused by Jesus' bright figure, Saul was not able to do anything. And of course, the pure shock of the whole experience left him in complete awe and dumbfounded that he was unable to eat or drink for those 3 days (Acts 9:8-9). This experience certainly left him speechless and force him to reevaluate himself and his mission – his life course. As we have learned through our reading of Acts chapter 9, that 3-day process was the key to Saul changing into a new man. (Compare to 2 Corinthians 5:17).

Now, to us, those 3 days do not seem very long. But when you had gone through what Saul experienced, it may seem like a lifetime of torture. It’s like going on a 24-hour fast. For most of us, by the time we reach that first hour, we are already dreading the process. We become irritable and lethargic, and our body begins to show the classic signs that we have gone too long without food.
​
This was no different for Saul. He literally experienced a mental breakdown from his experience. Therefore, this waiting period was going to either break him or forever change him. The LORD said it to the prophet Jeremiah this way.
​

​This process usually, for most of us takes years. But GOD was going to take this process for Saul and accelerate the time. (Compare to Joel 2:25). He was going to root out, tear down, destroy, throw down, build as well as plant into Saul everything he needed to change his course of actions and become the vessel (instrument) GOD needed to bear HIS name to the Gentile nation, all the kings of the earth, and to the nation of Israel. Saul’s reputation was about to be flipped. His name was about to not only be made great for the LORD. But he was going to receive a new name and a new identity for Christ. As a result, of this metamorphosis, he was about to suffer many things for the LORD due to this greater name he was about to be established in and carry. 

​This is the same lucrative question Jesus Christ is asking many today, who call themselves Christians but they are persecuting their brother and sister in the faith by their words and deeds. It is important today, because of the time and season we are in. That we examine this text closely in Acts to get a clear understanding of what is occurring here. For GOD never acts one way or another without providing a fair warning to HIS people first. (Compare to Amos 3:7). 
​

​Through such words as ‘strange fire’, and through their interpretation of dreams and visions. There are some Christians in the Body of Christ that are persecuting their brothers and sisters simply because
​

There are many, far too many Sauls in the Body of Christ today that will have to answer for their ignorance, arrogance, and insensitivity to the strong faith of others. But before getting in too deep with this talking point today, let’s go back to Acts chapter 9, and start reading at verse 3.
​
We see as Saul traveled to Damascus with his caravan on his quest to catch Christians. When he was almost there, his journey was interpreted in the most unusual way. First, an extremely bright light stood in front of him, blocking his path to Damascus. Verse 3 says,
​

There are two things we can pick up from this verse. When we are about to do something stupid that will, in the long run, mess our lives up. GOD will always suddenly come down and stand between us and the bad decision we are about to make. Now, today, that can be our parents, who suddenly get a whim that we are about to do something stupid. Or a loving friend and even a complete stranger. (Keep in the mind, I’m primarily talking about Christians here). Through these instruments of GOD, HE will stand between you and whatever evil you are about to commit. The second thing we want to notice here is GOD will ALWAYS come to the rescue of HIS people. Now, listen to me when I say this. Because many Christians are not going to like and even take offense to what I’m about to say. 
​

​GOD will not stand by and watch HIS true servants be snuffed out. And this is exactly what Saul was attempting to do. He wanted to take out every Christian he encounter.

This is no different from today. There are Christians, who want to snuff out other Christians utilizing their social media platforms for the sake of gaining more fans, likes, subscribers, and followers. Like Cain, they want to murder their brothers and sisters in the faith by means of their words, deeds, and an insulting statement like ‘strange fire.’
​
But Christians who really belong to the LORD do not have to fret about any kind of persecution that comes at the hands of these Sauls in the Body of Christ. Because, like the situation at Acts 9:3-4, Christ will suddenly show up like a bright light to impede the path of these self-righteous Christians who think they have all the answers, intelligent, and Christ-like wisdom but they are really persecuting GOD’s righteous remanent. 

This is such a timely question Jesus asked Saul. ‘Why are you persecuting me?’ Jesus is basically asking Saul. What gives you the right to do such a thing? Under what authority do you have to do such a thing? The Lord is asking many in the Body of Christ this same question. Under whose authority have you been given authority to witness under my name to declare such vicious dreams, and visions, and make such public declaration as ‘strange fire’ about others that are in the faith?  Who authorized you? Who sent you under my name?

Confused by Jesus’ presence and inquiry, Saul responds, ‘who are you, LORD?’ Even though Saul did not know who Christ was at this point and time in his life. He still was able to sense and acknowledge the authority Jesus carried. Hence, why he greeted Jesus with the salutation – Lord.
​
In response to Saul’s question. Jesus says to him. “I am Kyrios” (or Lord), the one who has the power and authority to decide your fate if you continue this path. For He is the sovereign Lord, the Alpha, and Omega, the Prince above all princes, the chief over all mankind. Our Messiah. Then Jesus makes this interesting statement to Saul. 
​

What in the world is Jesus saying here to Saul? ‘Goads’ here is the same thing as pricks. In Greek, the word kentron (G2758), refers to a string, like that of bees, scorpions, or locusts. These animals’ strings are so potent that they can even cause death. Therefore, their string is similar to a deadly weapon. The action Saul was about to take was on this same level. He was about to bring a death string or sentence to GOD’s people. So, are the lips of many Christians today. (See Proverbs 18). Their words or actions against other Christians are so potent that with their mouth alone, they are about to bring a death sentence to the Body of Christ. (Compare to Proverbs 18:21). Like Saul, many today do not even acknowledge their own fault and sin. They are so blinded by their own self-righteous way of thinking. And yet they all are about to be blinded at once by a sudden bright light that will get in their path – their way to destruction.


In the case of Saul, his life was spared. But for the remainder of his days, he had to live with the consequences of his bad decisions – actions and words he personally spoke against his brothers and sisters in the faith. I can only assume the nightmares that kept Paul up late at night. Knowing the blood he had on his hands despite he was forgiven by Christ.
​

What about us today? On the day that Christ comes to interrupt our ongoing insult of righteous men and women of GOD, will we be like Paul and relent, repent, and make our wrongs right? Or will we be so caught up in our own pride and self-righteous belief system, and continue our unrighteous path against our brothers and sisters in the faith? Causing us to inherit a death sentence for our penalty by Christ’s righteous sword. For GOD’s remnants are precious in His eyes (Zechariah 2:8). Therefore, He will not ever allow you to take them out by your words or deeds. 

The transformation of one’s life is the greatest miracle that can ever occur. When a person experiences true conversion and forms a real, heartfelt, and sincere relationship with Christ. There is no other greater miracle than this – a pure transformation of the heart and mind.
​
Case in point. Let’s take the life of Apostle Paul. As we know, Paul, once went by the name Saul, prior to his religious conversion. Under that name, he did many evil things. Ananias, a disciple of Christ, put it this way. “… I have heard from many about this man, how much harm (evil) he has done to your saints” (Acts 9:13).

Paul even described his former self this way. “I persecuted the church of GOD beyond measure and tried to destroy it. … Saints I shut up in prison by the authority of the chief priests, and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them” (Galatians 1:13; Acts 26:9-10).
​
Paul, when he was known as Saul, was one the main leaders who were responsible for one of the greatest persecution the church has experienced. He led the persecution against the church by invading their sanctuaries, entering Christians’ private homes, throwing Christians into prison, and being a part of the death of countless Christians. (Compare to Acts 8:1, 3; 9:1-2; 22:4; 26:10). Paul, as Saul, was a great man to be feared, and rightfully so. 

​We are not going to go into much detail in this section about Paul’s life. But I thought it would be beneficial to cover a few pivotal points from his life.

Saul was a part of the Pharisee class. They were the largest and most influential religious group in the New Testament. They were antagonists (opponents) against Jesus and his disciples. They were known for their separatist behavior. [They separated themselves from all other groups (both social and religious). Especially from the common people because they saw them as religiously unclean.]

So, Saul was part of this group of men. As a result, he adopted many prejudiced views this class of men had. It was the Pharisees’ unhealthy belief systems that Saul held onto, that drove him to become one of the church’s greatest and formative persecutors.
​
Now, this was who Paul was prior to his conversion to Christianity. As Saul, he was a man full of prejudices, hatred, anger, ignorance, and undisciplined principles because, at that time, he was holding onto an erroneous belief system. But, Paul, whom the church has come to know and love today, is a very different person from the man Saul.
​

​Now, many in the church love to talk about Paul’s conversion. But we don’t want to overlook it for what it is. It’s one of the greatest miracles that any Christain can experience in their life. In fact, I believe that Paul’s encounter with Christ that led to his conversion IS THE GREATEST sign, wonder, and miracle that any Christian can experience. 
​

Let’s look at Paul’s conversion together. We see in the account stated at Acts chapter 9 that Paul was on his way to Damascus to find any and every Christian he could find to have them seized and locked up in prison. For it was his goal to stamp out any Christians who were following “The Way.” But on his way there, Paul had an encounter that forever changed him.
​
Now, I am not going to go into details about Paul’s conversion. You can read it for yourself at Acts chapter 9, verses 1 through 9. What I want to focus on are two things.
​

​​As we see in verses 4 through 6 of Acts chapter 9, there is this back and forth dialogue going on between Saul and Jesus. As this is going on, the men that were traveling with Saul were observing this “strange” behavior by him. For these men did not see Jesus nor could hear the things that Jesus was saying to Saul. So, you can only imagine what these men may have thought. Like, what in the world is going on here? Is Saul losing his mind? Why did all of this occur and what triggered Saul to behave this way? One minute, they are traveling on the road to Damascus. And then, out of nowhere, Saul flips on them. For no apparent reason, he was acting strange and crazy from their point of view.
​
You see, what these men were observing concerning Saul was weird. Some elite and insensitive leaders today would call Saul’s behavior “strange fire.” (I won’t go there today). To the men who were with Saul, his behavior appeared strange to them because they (1) did not understand what was happening to Saul. (2) And because they could not see nor hear who or what Saul was seeing and talking to. Therefore, they all probably at this point, labeled Paul as crazy. He has lost it – having a psychotic episode or some kind of demonic attack.

Kind of like what some Christians do towards their brothers and sisters in the faith when they cannot relate to or if they have not experienced the same or similar encounter with Christ as some have in the faith. Often time, some Christians try to rebuff an individual’s experience or encounter with Christ as some form of witchcraft, some “strange” event, a senseless emotional outburst, or some demonic experience. Some believers would prefer giving more credit to the devil and his power to influence GOD’s people. Then believe in the indefinite power and abilities of an all-knowing, all-powerful, supreme GOD, who can do all things and therefore anything – even today. Like these men who were traveling with Saul, many in the church today, cannot and will not believe nor accept that people are having unique encounters with Christ that are forever changing their lives. 
​

​This leads us to Paul's introduction to Ananias.
​
Ananias was a well-known and respected disciple of Christ. After Paul’s conversion, GOD approached Ananias and gave him these specific instructions.
​

​Now, when Ananias first heard this, you can only imagine the initial confusion he must have felt. He probably even asked himself – am I hearing right? He might have even initially rebuked the voice of the LORD, knowing the kind of man Saul was. Ananias probably thought this voice cannot be the LORD. It has to be something of a demonic nature, setting me up for a trap.

But the vision the LORD gave Ananias concerning Paul’s conversion made it clear to him that this was indeed the LORD. Therefore, despite his reservation and the fear he might have felt, Ananias went to
Saul and laid his hands on him so that he may recover his sight and be filled with Holy Spirit.

Ananias' responses to Paul clearly show us that he accepted Paul’s conversion as legitimate. He did not question, nor doubt what the LORD had done for Saul in converting him into a new man. (Compare to 2 Corinthians 5:17). In fact, when Ananias greeted Paul for the first time, he said to him, “… Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with Holy Spirit (Acts 9:17-18).

First, Ananias acknowledged and accepted Paul’s conversion, and then greeted Saul as his brother. Once Ananias heard from the LORD concerning Saul. He did not need any man of the faith to vet whether Paul’s conversion was legit. He did not need man’s approval concerning Paul. A word from the LORD was all he need to receive Paul as his brother.
​
Secondly, Ananias confirmed Paul’s conversion by restating the encounter Saul had with Christ along the road. Although Ananias was not there, the LORD revealed to Ananias how Paul’s conversion happened. So, when Ananias met Saul, he said to him. 
​

​Ananias did not dismiss nor reject Paul’s encounter just because it was not his personal experience with Christ. Ananias respected the fact that this was how Christ decided to approach Saul so that he could experience a real heart transformation to Paul. And I am sure, Ananias’ original encounter with Christ was different from Paul's. We have to be mindful, just like Ananias was being mindful that without Saul’s Damascus encounter with Christ on the road, Saul probably would never have experienced a real heart transformation to Paul. Therefore, he certainly would not have the level of impact or influence that he has had on the church today. 

I won’t go into great details about my own personal encounters with Christ because I have spoken about it many times over the years on my website blog (deaidrenewby.com), my YouTube vlog (deaidre1), as well as through other social media posts (@newforddesigns).

But I will say this. Like Paul, my two encounters with Christ that led to my conversion are unique to me. Like Paul, my encounters with Christ were personal, life-like, and convincing – that they convinced me to make a 180 turn from the way I was living. Like Paul, I was on the sure path to hell. I was choosing a one-way ticket to hell because of my own ignorance. Even Paul admitted this about himself when he was Saul. He said, “although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent (violent, arrogant) man, but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief” (1 Timothy 1:13). Saul was severely persecuting his Jewish brothers and sisters out of his own ignorance.

What about us today? Like Saul, some of us are persecuting our brothers and sisters in the faith because we cannot accept or relate to their personal encounters with Christ. We are dismissing the faith and experiences of some of our brothers and sisters because we personally don’t understand or agree with how GOD speaks or moves in and through them because it is not our own personal experience with GOD.

Like mine, Paul’s encounter with Christ had to be unique to him so that GOD could get his attention. His encounter could not have been done any other way. Otherwise, it would have had no effect on Saul. And he would not have become Paul – an apostle of Christ.

This was no different for me. My encounters with Christ had to be unique for me in order for Christ to get my attention. If it was done in any other way, Dede would have never become the Deaidre I am today. I am certainly not the same person I once was.

Paul certainly is not the same man he once was. And I strongly believe it is safe to say, it is because of his personal encounter he had with Christ on the way to Damascus.
​
Individual encounters with Christ need to be different for each individual so that we all can experience a true conversion of our faith. Otherwise, it would be of no effect. 

GOD wants to dwell among HIS people. HE wants a place where HIS Spirit can rest. A place where HIS people can meet to praise and worship HIM as well as a place for HIM to comfort HIS people– i.e. HIS threshing floor. But for GOD to dwell or rest in such a place – a sanctuary dedicated to HIM, it must be clean, holy, sacred, and treated with the utmost respect by all because HIS presence is there.
​
GOD will not rest, meaning HE is there 24/7, anywhere uncleanness, sin, or unrighteous and unholy acts are allowed to run rampant. Where a sanctuary is not kept clean from debris, dirt, filth, stains, and other damages caused by a lack of respect or upkeep. We must remember there is nothing unclean and unholy about GOD. Therefore, our houses (churches of GOD), especially our sanctuaries should resemble the holy, pure, and perfect GOD we serve. 
​

In GOD’s word, HE instructed Moses to build HIM a sanctuary for HIM so He could dwell with HIS people. This sanctuary was so important that GOD provided Moses with very explicit details of how to construct HIS sanctuary and what articles were allowed to go inside of this sanctuary. (See Exodus 25:10-40).

Everything that was inside the tabernacle was sacred and must be treated as so by everyone who was allowed to come near or in the tabernacle. NO ONE WAS ALLOWED TO BRING ANYTHING THAT WAS NOT ON GOD’S LIST, INSIDE THE TABERNACLE. No, Mcdonald's, drinks, or other food items were allowed. In fact, every item that GOD instructed Moses to place in the tabernacle was considered sacred, an offering to the LORD.

So, do we consider the chairs, equipment, the pulpit (GOD’s altar), and all the musical instruments as sacred as the articles that were placed in Moses’ tabernacle for the LORD? Do we see and treat these items in the same manner as the items that were in GOD’s temple and tabernacle in the Old Testament? Or do we treat our sanctuaries and all the items in them like our homes? Where we eat any and everywhere, which sometimes leads to us staining our carpet and furniture and in some situations permanently damaging an item.

We have to be mindful that the Church of GOD does not belong to us but to GOD. HIS sanctuary, which can be seen in the same manner as the Holy of the Most Holy place, as HIS permanent dwelling place. Are we so disconnected from GOD that we do not experience HIS holy presence in our sanctuaries that we are willing to bring foods of all kinds and our trash into HIS sacred room?
​
I have personally seen people, especially children spilled dark drinks of all kinds on the chairs and furniture in GOD’s House – His Sanctuary. I’ve also obvious these same individuals not making an effort to clean up their mess nor report the damage they caused to leadership so they can take the proper actions to immediately clean GOD’s sacred items. As a result, many of GOD’s Houses, our sanctuaries, are dirty. We are worshipping a mighty, holy, and righteous GOD in filth. What a sad reality. This in itself is an abomination. (Compare to Ezekiel 8:4-17).
​

My brothers and sisters, we cannot treat GOD’s house, especially HIS sanctuary like our personal property where anything goes and is allowed. This is GOD’s House, where HE dwells or wants to dwell. HIS presence is there or would like to rest permanently in our sanctuary. But if it is kept unclean by stained carpet and chairs, damaged equipment, etc., how can GOD rest there?
​
Just imagine for a second, if any of us were right now, standing before this righteous and perfect GOD. Can we see ourselves causally eating and drinking food before HIM as we interact and converse with HIM? CERTAINLY NOT! HE is holy! We would not be able to even stand before HIM because HIS glory is so awesome and powerful. So, why are we allowing any and everything to be brought into a holy place that is made especially for GOD – that is, HIS holy sanctuaries? 

​As we enter into day 4 of our corporate fast, we should focus on what it really means to surrender our lives to GOD – our thoughts, ways, desires, direction in life, our children, career path, emotions, ministry, etc. Living a surrendered lifestyle can be completely impossible for most of us because we like and prefer to be in control. So, let’s explore why it is beneficial, in our best interest, to live a surrendered lifestyle. 
​

​James 4:7 reads, therefore submit to God….
​

On the surface, this seems like a very easy act. In fact, if anyone asks us, each one of us would profess that we are living a surrendered lifestyle when the opposite is very true. For example, I use to watch a TV show on Roku called Neighborhood. On the surface, this TV show appeared to be a good sitcom series to watch for wholesome entertainment. All the characters are very funny, especially the two husbands who are played by Cedric the Entertainer and Max Greenfield. Even their supporting wives and children have very good and humorous punch lines throughout the show.

The sitcom is set in the homes of these two families – the Butler, who is an African-American family, and the Johnson, who is a middle-class white family moving into a predominated middle-class black community in California. The sitcom addresses many different difficult and sensitive cultural issues from racism on both sides of the lines to drugs, relationships, male chauvinism, mental health issues, and faith.

The writers of the show, which there are 75 different writers, do a pretty decent job of not watering down the truth surrounding these issues. But they present an obscure view when writing scripts on the topic surrounding faith.

The show is currently in its 5th season. The success of their show is certainly because of the quality actors they have and the well-written, entertaining, and funny scripts. But the storylines that are centered around Calvin Butler’s wife, Tina, that is played by Tichina Arnold are very problematic.

In the show, Tina is a mother of two adult males. She is a strong African American woman who cares greatly for her family and community. She is smart and business savvy, extremely funny, loves and adores her husband, enjoys her friends, has no time for nonsense, and loves GOD. She takes on the character of a Christian woman who often speaks about GOD to her husband, family, and friends.

Yet her character is double-minded when it comes to being completely surrendered to GOD. (Compare to James 1:8). Why do I say that? As a Christian woman, Tina curses a lot and willing participant in religious mystical rituals with her friend Gemma Johnson, who plays Dave Johnson’s wife. (Compare to Ephesians 4:29; Exodus 20:3).

In the show, it is a common practice to mix the ways Christians should live their lives for GOD with societal rituals, tolerance, and acceptable lifestyles that conflict with what is good and righteous according to GOD’s Word. The Bible has a lot to say about such behavior by Christians. Therefore, this show sends the wrong message about what it means to live a surrendered life by a woman who professes to be a Christian.
​
So, what does it mean to live a surrendered life as stated at James 4:7?
​

Now, James does not use the word surrender at James 4:7. It uses the term submit, which has the same implication. According to the Webster Dictionary, submit means “to give up and cease resistance as to habits.” While surrender means “yielding of one person to the control of another.” So, based on Tina’s character, has she, who professes to be a Christian, really surrendered her life to Christ?

Ephesians 4:27 caution us to give no place or room to the devil. Ephesians 6:11 says we should stand firm against the wiles (clever gimmicks, tricks, schemes) of the devil. Unfortunately, Tina, as a Christian, has failed to apply these principles. Her character has fallen for the traps of the devil order to be pleasing to her television friends and to fit in with the mindset of what is socially acceptable to the community in which she lives.

Now, I really have not answer what it means to live a surrendered lifestyle to GOD. So, to answer this, let me refer to the content that is written in my book Surrendering: A Blueprint Of My Life – Healing From Homosexuality.
​
In this book Prophetess Felicia Crawford wrote in the Foreword:
​

​When we live a surrender or submitted life to GOD we will allow His truth, which can be found in HIS Scriptures only, to set us free from things GOD said HE hates or things we should not do. Do not miss this point. Let me just list a few things GOD hates and commands we should not do. 

​Now, don’t miss this. The Scripture does not warn us against people who are doing these things that are outside of the church – that is, the world where these practices are common. But the apostle Paul speaks about Christians who are doing these things. People who claim to be submitted or have surrendered to GOD. GOD warns us to avoid, stay away from, and keep from such types of people.

We cannot claim to live a surrendered lifestyle to GOD and yet we are cussing Christians. Having sexual relations when we are not married or with individuals or things that are not our spouse. We cannot claim to be Christian if we are spreading lies about others, gossiping, or attempting to ruin the reputations of others based on things we have heard or what we assume and not what GOD has spoken or told us about a person. How can we be a Christian if drunkenness is our common practice, or we engage in sexual practice with the same sex, we steal, betrayed others, jealous of others, display uncontrollable anger, selfishness, hatred, envy, etc. These are all behaviors that LORD speaks against (Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Corinthians 6:7:11). These are signs that we have not to surrender our lives to GOD. ​

Paul says at Galatians 5:9 and 1 Corinthians 6:21 that those who practice such things will not inherit (live) or be resurrected, in GOD’s Kingdom. The key word here is practice. Practice means these things are a custom, habit, pattern, ritual, second nature, or a way of doing things. You do these things over and over again. It is a routine common practice of yours.
​
You see, if we are truly submitted or surrendered to GOD, HIS WORD will cause us to stop, cease, abstain from, and abandon any and all behaviors that GOD hates or commands us not part take in. Instead, a surrendered person will allow oneself to be washed clean by GOD’s WORD (1 Corinthians 6:11). Living a surrendered life to GOD will force you to give up being angry, to abandon feelings of holding onto resentment or bitterness, to dismiss any unforgiving attitude toward anyone, and choosing the ways of GOD instead living for ourself and our own selfish pleasure, mindset, and attitudes. 

​​During our monthly fast, this month, we are focusing on drawing near to GOD. James 4:8 reads
​

​The Greek word for the phrase “to draw near” is engizō (G1448), which means to draw, come, or bring near. Here, GOD is asking us to come even closer to HIM. Not just in a physical way but emotionally and spiritually. One commentary puts it this way. ​Here, GOD is extending to us an invitation and a promise. 

​​We need to be mindful that drawing near to GOD is completely different from submitting to HIM. Yet, we as Christians, often treat this phrase – “draw near to GOD,” as if it is the same thing as submitting to GOD. We use this term - drawing near to GOD and the act of submitting to GOD as if they are interchangeable when they are not. So, what does it mean to draw near to GOD? Well, let’s look at two specific areas in our lives to get a better understanding of this phrase. ​
​

1. Seeking GOD’s counsel. Let me explain this by using myself as an example. Over the years, I have had the privilege of speaking into the lives of many different people from many different backgrounds. Often time, these ones seek me for direction, prayer, and even counsel when making small and even very important life-changing or altering decisions. Now, in itself, this is good. For the Scripture advise that less mature individuals and even those who are uncertain about a decision they need to make in life, that these ones should seek the advice of seasoned saints.
 
Proverbs 11:4 puts it this way. 

​We should never be too prideful to receive suggestions, advise, direction, or counsel, even when it is voluntarily given to us by someone who is more experienced than we are. For this is good for us individually and as a whole (the Body of Christ). Ephesians 4:11-12 explains it this way. 
​

GOD wants to perfect (complete, finish) and edify (build up; to grow in wisdom, piety, happiness, holiness) each one of us. To achieve this, we must be open to the counsel that GOD provides through those HE has placed in our path.
 
So, how does this help us to draw near to GOD? 2 Timothy 3:16 speaks about how all scriptures are profitable (helpful, advantageous), righteous (how we ought to be, acceptable to GOD), and good for us. So, when we encounter a seasoned and mature man or woman of GOD who is rooted in GOD’s Word, when we allow these individuals to speak life into our situations and or decisions we must make. It is like what is said at 2 Timothy 3:16. GOD breathes on us through these righteous men and women, who provide us insight, impart wisdom, give us counsel or correction, or wise direction. So that, we as individuals may be made complete, and thoroughly equipped for every good work before a holy and righteous GOD.
 
We become more dependent on GOD’s method of instructing us through earthly vessels that HE is using and not solely dependent on our head knowledge, research, heart (emotions or feelings), gut (intuition or discernment), or what we see or hear, which all can be misleading if these areas are not built upon the foundation of Christ. 

And this leads us to our second area. 

​2. Drawing near to GOD. Drawing near to GOD means that we enjoy communion with HIM. Let me ask you this to help you appreciate and understand the point I am making here. 
​
Here’s my question, which might sound a little absurd (ridiculous, unreasonable, unsound) if you only look at the question from the surface level. Can you see GOD?
 
Now, when I first asked that question, what was the first thing that came to your mind? Write it down. Now, what was the second thing that came to your mind? Now, write that down too. Now, when I get done explaining the answer to my question, go back and compare my explanation to your initial 2 answers. 

For most of you, when I asked that question, your minds probably immediately thought I was asking, can you see GOD with your natural eyes? Although that is one way to look at that question. That is not what I am asking.

Now, most of us have at least one very close friend. You may refer to this friend as your BFF (best friend forever), brother, sister, or as your ride-or-die partner. This person you know, you can count on through thick and thin. This person will do anything for you. Therefore, that relationship, that person is extremely important to you. As a result, you share almost, if not everything with that person. You enjoy his or her company and always look forward to talking with or hanging out with this individual. Sometimes, you cannot wait to see him or her.

Now, what I described in the previous paragraph about your BFF, is this the same way you feel about communion (communicating) with GOD? 
​

• Can you not wait to hear from HIM or talk with HIM?
• Are you excited about the next time you get to sit down and read HIS Word – HIS letter to you?
• Do you miss HIM whenever you don’t hear from HIM or when your schedule becomes too busy and you miss your prayer time or Bible reading/studying time with HIM?
• Do you even see yourself doing these things with HIM? Or, is your study/reading time just about you doing it alone? Is your prayer time just a random long list of things you want from HIM to do for you and it is not a conversation about random things that are going on in your life as well as HIS? Yes, GOD does have a life. I’m just saying.

Let’s understand this on a deeper level. Notice what GOD called Abraham at Isaiah 41:8. 

Did you notice the distinction being made here? GOD referred to Israel or Jacob as HIS servant. But concerning Abraham, GOD called Abraham HIS friend.

​Friendship does not come easy. And a good, healthy friendship will cost you something. Friendship requires work – a lot of it and hard work at times to maintain such relationships in the long run. Each individual must invest in it as well as devote their personal time, energy, commitment, heart, emotion, resources, and funds to make it work. Even more so, each individual must sacrifice some things for a relationship to develop into a thriving friendship. And yet, GOD said about Abraham – “… And he was called the friend of God….”
​
Are you GOD’s friend or just another servant of GOD?
​
If we or even HIM, still see ourselves as just HIS servant, then we definitely need to work on drawing closer to GOD. It should be our deepest desire to earn that friend status with GOD, to the point where we truly can see HIM in our lives like we see our BFF. 

Summary of Revelation chapter 20.

[Intro to All Things Made New Series – taken from Revelation chapters 20 through 21] – Part 2

As I mentioned in Part 1 of Kingdom Keys post last week, keys are such a powerful tool, a great defensive, and offensive weapon to have in spiritual warfare. But today, we are going to go a little deeper into understanding Kingdom Keys that are assigned to members in the Boby of Christ.
​
At Matthew chapter 16, verse 19, Jesus said to His disciples. 
​

​Jesus continues at Mark chapter 4, verse 11
​

It is important that we know that the keys to GOD’s Kingdom can directly influence and change the atmosphere and the lifestyle of people. Why is this important to know? Because we must understand – whatever happens on earth depends on us NOT GOD. Remember, GOD has given the earth to the sons of man. (See Psalm 115:16, Genesis 1:28). So, we are fully responsible for the outcomes of our government, the laws and moral codes of the land, and the success and failure of our families, our churches, and everything.
​
Let’s look at Matthew chapter 13, verses 11 and 12, where Jesus said to His disciples, 
​

​The key here is the phrase ‘the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom’. This knowledge of the secrets involves having access, special privilege to specific Kingdom keys. These Kingdom keys will unlock not just doors. But it will allow individuals to gain access to unlock inaccessible doors to communities, cities, political powers, and nations. (If GOD grants you access to such keys). Remember, verse 12 of that chapter says,
​

​That ‘whoever has’ clearly states that not everyone will be granted such knowledge (or keys) to secrets (or mysteries) of the Kingdom of heaven. So, what are keys?
​

A key represents

1. Authority
2. Access
3. Ownership
4. Control
5. Authorization
6. Power
7. Freedom

​When GOD grants you access to a key, HE is giving all 7 principles that are stated above.

A key gives you authority in the Kingdom of GOD. Meaning, you have the authority to explore a situation or matter in depth, which gives you ownership over it. This key also allows you to control everything and everyone that can go in and out of a given region. This key gives you the legal authorization to move in and out of an area and to take anything you need from heaven into this space. This key gives you the power and freedom to do whatever you feel is necessary to implement the Kingdom of God in the hearts of the land.

We must understand that Kingdom keys are principles. They are laws (moral laws of conduct) and systems (our constitution - the Bible). They are also functions that initiate actions. Whenever we apply the appropriate key to a situation or circumstance, things happen.
​
We must understand that keys are principles on which GOD’s Kingdom operates. Therefore, keys allow an authorized user to demand for changes, structure, and order on behalf of individuals, families, businesses, governments, churches, and other entities. But the key is only useful when it is used by an authorized user that has been granted access (a key) by the King. Otherwise, you are acting out of order. Let’s make this clearer by using two examples. 

EXAMPLE 1:
​
GOD has granted or handed over Kingdom keys to Pastor Seth over Restoration Point Church. Therefore, Pastor Seth is an authorized user of the 7 principles I mentioned earlier. So, he can bind and loose things in that house as well as call down from heaven, whatever he needs to make things happen for Restoration Point Church. No one else in that house can come in and declare such things for that house, not unless, 

EXAMPLE 2:

GOD has assigned me authority as HIS apostle over the region of York County, which I share that responsibility with Prophetess Felicia Crawford. The same principle applies in my case. I possess Kingdom keys that allow me as an authorized user/owner within this County to bind and loose anything and anyone. If any other apostle (or prophet/prophetess) tries to come into this region that GOD has not specifically authorized to do so or we have not granted access to the region. Then they will be acting illegally within this region and will feel the same effects as the seven sons of Sceva. (See Acts 19:14-16).

Christians must get this. Just because you are a Christian does not mean you have the license or authority to confront every demon, lifestyle, situation, or circumstance. We should be able to. But unfortunately, this is not the case for all Christians. And there is a reason for this. KEYS. Not all Christain possess the appropriate authorized keys. Therefore, you are not granted to manage nor handle certain Kingdom issues inside and outside of the church without the proper authorized Kingdom key holder with you. (Compare to 1 Corinthians 12). We must all go through appropriate channels (or processes) that earn us the rights and privilege to manage certain Kingdom secrets. Upon reaching certain levels, then GOD will give or grant us rights to secrets, that is Kingdom keys over certain matters and territories.
​
Let’s make this point clearer. Not every member in the church can addresses homosexuality. Why? Because you were not granted keys. Don’t get this twisted or confused. I AM NOT SAYING IF YOU ENCOUNTER SOMEONE IN YOUR MINISTRY THAT IS LIVING THAT LIFESTYLE THAT YOU CANNOT WITNESS TO THEM. Yes, love up on them. Give them the pure, unadulterated gospel. But if GOD has not told you specifically that HE has given you keys (Kingdom secrets) of how to crack and unlock this lifestyle. Then it is in your best interest and the person you are witnessing to, to find someone that GOD has given authorized keys to. 
​

​The point here is we all need to stay within the boundaries of where GOD has assigned us – given us authorization over. For the areas where GOD has not given us governance, we must seek out brothers and sisters that GOD has authorized. This is what will result in a unified Body being used according to the plans and will of GOD. (See 1 Corinthians 12:1, 4-31). 
​

How powerful are Kingdom keys? This is a good point we want to grasp. But before we answer this question, we need to first recognize how our faith plays a role in using the power that comes with each key we possess. (Remember, Kingdom keys represent Kingdom principles).
​
For example, at Mark chapter 11, starting at verse 12. We see Jesus and His disciples walking along a path from Bethany. Along the way, he becomes hungry. Jesus noticed a fig tree with plenty of leaves on it. But, when he walks up to it, he discovers it has no figs. So, he curses the tree by declaring,
​

​When Jesus spoke these words, His disciples heard it and were puzzled by it. They did not understand that Jesus was using one of His authorized Kingdom keys to curse the tree. So, as we drop down to verse 20, we see, Jesus and His disciples are passing the fig tree again that Jesus had previously cursed. The apostles immediately noticed that the fig tree had withered from its roots. To which they said, 
​

To which, Jesus explained this critical point to His disciples. 
​

Jesus possesses as an authorized user the Kingdom keys that granted Him the right to say to a specific fig tree to wither up and die. He believed, pulled down from heaven his authority to bind that tree and declare it and it was done. 

​[Intro to All Things Made New Series – taken from Revelation chapters 20 through 21]
​

​Keys are such a powerful tool, a great defensive, and offensive weapon to have in spiritual warfare. And yet, it is a tool that many Christians do not understand nor do we know how to properly use.
​

In John’s vision, he described at Revelation chapter 20, verse 1 that he saw “… an angel coming down from heaven, having the key….” This is also repeated at Revelation chapter 1, verse 18 where Jesus said, “… I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”
​
The Blue Letter Bible defines ‘keys’ this way. “The keeper of the keys has the power to open and shut. Keys denote power and authority of various kinds” (BLB, 2022). 
​

Now, I will admit, I am guilty of not fully understanding the significance of keys in GOD’s Kingdom. Why do some sons and daughters of GOD’s Kingdom are given keys? And for what purpose? I want to explore this little this morning. But again, please be mindful that I am limited in my knowledge and understanding when it comes to Kingdom keys. But as always, I am simply obeying the Spirit of the LORD and flowing as the Spirit leads me.

I know it is time to finally release the word GOD has given me in Revelation chapters 20 through 21 that I have been talking about off and on since September 20. But it wasn’t until this morning that I felt a pull toward my notes that I have taken on these two chapters, between September 20 through November 11. When I skim read my notes this morning, I wasn’t sure how GOD wanted me to share the content because I have 21 ½ pages of notes. So, as I sat, waiting for instructions from the LORD. I felt compelled to reread Revelation chapter 20, which I did not get very far.
​
As soon as I read it, the phrase “the key” leaped from its page as if it stood before me in big bold black text, floating in front of me. I could not ignore it if I wanted to. It is then that two things came to my mind. 
​

​After reading that statement in my book, I was compelled to stop to meditate on what I had written to examine whether I have fully used these keys given to me. Am I making proper use of what has been given to me?

Initially, I wanted to say ‘NO’. Because I know I do not fully understand what has been given to me, yet how and when to use them. Or maybe, it’s simply the case that it was not the season for me to fully use them. But as I further investigate and mediate on my historical timeline. I realized. “My GOD!” I have been using these ‘keys’, but on a small scale and unknowingly.  

Over the past, I don’t know, 6 or 7 years, I have been using these Kingdom keys to unlock quite a few doors in helping individuals, people, and couples who were willing to be partners in enduring GOD’s processes to gain their freedom. I have been walking side by side with individuals and families for a long time in helping them to walk this life in Christ out. (Compare to Matthew 28:19-20). And as each individual reached a pivotal point in their lives that has led them to a doorway, where they must choose between that wide and spacious road that leads to destruction and the cramped and narrow way that leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14). I possess the master key to that doorway to open it for them.

Again, it was said to me back in 2014, “You are giving the keys to unlock the door and free many to a new way of living. So be bold, be courageous, and set my people free. Just tell them your story. Those who are righteous toward me will respond.”
 
For each door that I am allowed to open leads to a deeper way of living in Christ. Granting individuals, families, businesses, and ministries a new way of living in Christ. Enabling people to experience what it truly means to live as a new creature, a new creation in Christ, when you are led and guided by the right men and women of GOD who have the heart and Spirit of GOD upon them. And as one makes the needed sacrifice to walk with the sons and daughters of GOD that are leading them, slowly but surely, one will see doors of healing, prosperity, peace, love, happiness, and fulfillment start to enter into their life, home, business, and ministry.
 
But to obtain such keys to essential doorways, one must be connected or submitted to the right man or woman of GOD who possesses the appropriate keys to your specific needs, your freedom in Christ.

Let’s take a minute this morning to understand Simon the sorcerer’s sin as a new convert.

As we recall in our last blog discussion, Simon was a well-known and famous man in the Samarian community for his mastery of performance with magical arts and witchcraft phenomena. But he had a sudden change of heart when he observed Philip, an evangelist of the gospel, come into his community preaching and speaking the truth concerning Christ.
​
As Philip taught, the Samarian people had an encounter with Christ. As a result, miracles occurred; “for unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed, and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed” (Acts 8:7). An explosion of joy took place all across the city because of the love of Christ displayed by His authorized evangelist, Philip, who was setting the captive free (Luke 4:18).
​

​Simon was not having the kind of influence and success Philip had because Simon did not receive what Philip received from heaven. So, while Simon was holding the people captive by means of his witchcraft and divination. Philip was setting people free through the preaching of the gospel which resulted in an outburst of miracles by means of GOD’s Spirit – HIS power.
​

Simon immediately noticed a dramatic difference between the type of gospel he was spilling upon the people to what Philip was sharing. What he observed led to his conversion and baptism. (Compare to Acts 8:12-13).

After his conversion, Simon begins to follow Philip in his ministry journey throughout Samaria. Resulting in him seeing firsthand, Peter and John’s display of GOD’s power being poured out on the people. As Simon observed the manifestation of GOD’s glory being poured out on the people through the apostles, John and Peter. Simon recognized that he lacked this kind of power.
​
Now we are going to skip Peter’s initial response in verse 20. Instead, we are going to focus on Peter’s response to Simon at verses 21 and 22. It reads.
​

1st We see as a new convert, Simon was denied access to receive the Promised, Holy Spirit. Here we can clearly see that NOT all newly converted individuals are granted access to the Spirit of the LORD at the time of their baptism. The Spirit of the LORD, Holy Ghost does not come and dwell in all baptized candidates as it is preached in most churches today. (A misconception many believers have. Many have been taught and believe that ALL Christians are endowed with HOLY SPIRIT. NOT TRUE and not in every case).

We also can see this is evident in the previous verses of Acts chapter 8. We read that Philip came to town and preached the gospel, to which, many men and women were amazed and got baptized in the name of Jesus (Acts 8:12-13). But none of those who were baptized had received Holy Spirit. (Compare to Acts 8:14-17).

Again, Simon was denied this privilege. Peter said to him, “you have neither part nor portion in this matter….”

2nd Peter explained to Simon why he was not being granted the Spirit of the LORD to dwell in him. He said, “… for your heart is not right in the sight of GOD.” Through Peter, GOD revealed that Simon was full of bitter jealousy and was being held captive by sin. (Acts 8:21, 23).
​
Now, this is the part that is going to be hard for many of you to receive and even apply to, and in your own lives. Despite this fact, Peter was teaching all of us a very important lesson through Simon's problematic conversion. 
​

Most people, at the time of their baptism, may have mentally decided to convert to the faith of Christ and have taken steps to serve GOD. But most of us have not completely abandoned our ways. That is, lying, jealous mentality, bitterness, unforgiveness, gossiping, all sorts of sexual sins, disrespecting authority figures, etc. (See also Galatians 5:16-21; 1 Corinthians 5:9-13; 1 Corinthians 6:7-10).

It is obvious, that the Spirit of the LORD cannot come and live inside of us UNTIL we have reached a level of spiritual maturity where such things are not practiced or essential vice in our lives. [This will vary from person to person (see 1 Corinthians 6:11)].
​
Here’s the point. Some of us, at the time of our conversion of faith, like Simon, our hearts are not right in the sight of GOD. Now GOD does not reject anyone, no matter what sin(s) we have committed or are doing (2 Peter 3:9). It is GOD’s desire that all of mankind is saved by HIS mercy and grace. But this still does not change the fact that some of us, especially newly converted individuals’ hearts are not right with GOD. Although they may declare that HOLY SPIRIT dwells with and in them. HE DOES NOT. Because just like Simon, something or things in their life is not right with GOD. As one Bible teacher put it to her former Bible student – “GOD (that is GOD’s Spirit) cannot live (or dwell) in mess.” That is an oxymoron. 
​

The final thing Peter said to Simon is “repent!” Repent of his wick behavior as well as pray to GOD for HIS forgiveness.
​
Often time, new converts fail to properly do this because they do not see anything wrong with what they are doing or how they are living. Simon did not see 
​

​​Now, although we are talking about new converts here. But this does apply to seasoned saints, church leaders, and everyone in between as well. If we do not see the need to honestly examine ourselves, our hearts, the kind of spirits we are operating from, the kind of nature we are displaying and spilling or pouring out on others, in our community, and in the atmosphere, we will never receive the Promised, Holy Spirit. That is, the Spirit of the LORD, GOD’s power, that is promised to all and every Christian. 
​