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Each year, people around the world celebrate April Fool’s Day, a day for pranks and practical jokes. No one wants to be made the fool, so everyone is on their toes and on the lookout for any pranksters! But did you know, the Bible has a lot to say about a fool? And it’s more than falling victim to practical jokes.

No one wants to be called a fool! Yet, there are many behaviors considered foolish that we can easily fall into if we do not guard our hearts and keep ourselves under correction. Foolishness will keep you from THE BLESSING and from enjoying the fruit of wisdom and prosperity.

The Word of God clearly defines the characteristics of a fool. In fact, there is a list of scriptures that covers the subject quite well. Among them are 13, which we’ll call “The Fool’s Dozen.”

As you read them from the King James Version, let the Holy Spirit search your heart. If you see ways in which you’ve been a fool, repent and make a firm decision not to be caught in that trap again. Put foolishness behind you once and for all, and prepare yourself for prosperity.

1. A fool despises wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7).

Are you correctable? By God and His Word? By your pastor? By a wise friend? If not, you are operating in foolishness. One who desires to grow and even invites correction is wise and will prosper. Keep pride and foolishness out of your life and accept the wisdom and instruction of others.

2. A fool is right in his own eyes (Proverbs 12:15).

You can avoid this kind of foolishness by constantly comparing your opinion to the Word of God. When they differ, always go with what the Word says–no matter how right your own opinion may seem to be at the time. If you do that, it will be impossible for the devil to deceive you for long in any area of your life.

3. A fool makes a mockery of sin (Proverbs 14:9).

Here the Lord is referring to the kind of person who thinks, for instance, that it won’t hurt him to watch R-rated movies. “That stuff doesn’t really bother me all that much,” he says. Another example is the believer who gossips “just a little.”

Sin in any measure will eventually bring ruin. If you sow sin, you will reap destruction. There’s just no way around that. The wages of sin is death…(Romans 6:23). It doesn’t say the wages of sin are sometimes death. No, the wages of sin are always death.

4. A fool hides hatred with lying and utters slander (Proverbs 10:18).

Don’t go around bad-mouthing everybody from the pastor to the president. That’s the mark of a fool. One cannot harbor a critical spirit and prosper in God.

5. A fool does mischief for sport (Proverbs 10:23).

This is the person who tears up something just for fun, causes trouble in the neighborhood to see a reaction, or picks a fight with someone out of boredom. That’s foolishness!          

6. A fool has a perverted mouth (Proverbs 19:1).

Having a perverted mouth means more than lying and using profanity. It means having a disobedient mouth. It means saying things that are out of line with the Word of God.

Having a perverted mouth also includes the ridiculous habit some people have of reversing the truth. If you took their words literally, you’d be going exactly backward all the time. They see a small dog and they call it a big dog. If there’s a big storm they call it a little storm. Spiritually, that’s foolish.

The world of the spirit doesn’t operate on what you mean, it operates on what you say.

The Word of God also says the mouth of a fool is totally full of foolishness. That refers to people who are always jesting. You can’t get a straight answer out of them. What they’re actually doing is trying to sell themselves socially by saying cute things all the time. But you don’t need to do that. You have the Spirit of God, faith and a godly personality to endear you to people. That’s all you need.

7. A fool trusts in his own understanding (Proverbs 28:26).

The Word of God tells us to lean not on our own understanding, but to trust in the Lord with all of our heart. When we do that, God will direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).

God promises you wisdom and understanding when you follow Him.

8. A fool utters all his mind (Proverbs 29:11).

This is the guy who gets upset about something and decides he has to let everybody know about it. “I’ll just give them a piece of my mind,” he’ll say. Don’t do that. Nobody wants a piece of your mind. If you give it to them, you’ll only end up alienating people.

Learn to keep quiet.

9. A fool walks in darkness (Ecclesiastes 2:14).

The Bible tells us in 1 John 2:9-11 that when we’re not walking in love, we’re walking in darkness. So, if you have anything against anyone, get that settled. Go before God and forgive the person before that broken relationship makes a fool out of you.

10. A fool does not pay his vows (Ecclesiastes 5:4).

You cannot imagine how many people have made faith promises and pledges to this ministry and then failed to follow through. Don’t do that! If you’ve already made some vows and some pledges you aren’t able to fulfill, go to God and ask His forgiveness. Then, go to the person or ministry that you made that pledge to and get things straightened out with them. And don’t make any more vows without the direction of the Holy Spirit.

11. A fool is swallowed up by his own lips (Ecclesiastes 10:12).

Read what Jesus said in Mark 11:23.

Enough said.

12. A fool says in his heart, “There is no God” (Psalm 14:1).

Most believers would try to excuse themselves from this one really quickly. Maybe with their mouths they’ve never said it, but they’ve said it with their actions. How? By sinning just a little here and there and thinking it won’t matter. They’ll go to an immoral movie or have a gossip session about the pastor, ignoring God’s command to the contrary.

With their actions they’re saying, “There is no God.” Whether you realize it or not, the more you act that way the more corrupt you will become.

Satan doesn’t care whether you publicly proclaim to be an atheist or whether you deny God by your actions. You’ll make a fool of yourself either way.

13. A fool is slow to believe in his heart (Luke 24:25).

Religious people are especially bad about this one. You can show them something–straight out of the Word of God–and they’ll just shake their heads because it disagrees with their traditions. Don’t make that mistake.

Be quick to believe anything you see in the Word of God. By clinging to your unbelief you will miss out on healing, prosperity, peace of mind and hundreds of other blessings God has for you. And that’s foolishness in anybody’s book!

Now that you’ve seen the Bible definition of a fool–work to overcome any areas where you may have missed it. And be mindful of these scriptures in the future. Then, God will make your way straight and prosperous, and you’ll be free to enjoy the fruits of wisdom!

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With work, raising kids, running errands and paying bills, even just a quiet time can feel like a challenge. So, how can you draw near to God? Check out this daily plan to help you get on your way.

“Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us…let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience….” –Hebrews 10:19-22 (ESV)

Drawing near to God is the heart’s desire of most Christians. Yet, with work, raising kids, running errands and paying bills, even just a quiet time can feel like a challenge. So, how can you draw near to God on a daily basis? Here are three simple ways to draw near and develop the relationship with Him you’ve always wanted.

1. Thank Him

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name” -Psalm 100:4.

When we thank someone in the natural, we think of it as a nice and polite thing to do. But, that’s not all it is when it comes to God. It’s so much more than that–it’s POWER. Why? Because God says He inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3). What does that mean? It means that when you praise Him, His presence descends upon you, overtakes your circumstances, anoints you with revelation and supernatural wisdom. Glory to God! It’s a power we NEED in our lives.

And, this is something you can easily work into your daily routine. You can praise and thank God in the shower, in your car, while you’re combing your hair. You can thank Him when you wake up, when you go to sleep. Praise is more than a prayer or a formality–it’s a lifestyle.

Here are a few ways that thanking God each day will change your life and help you draw near to Him:

  • It brings God on the scene
  • It puts your challenges into perspective
  • It focuses your mind on the Word, instead of the world
  • It strengthens your faith.

Praise and thanksgiving are weapons against the enemy. That’s why the devil tries to keep you feeling down, complaining, full of self-pity. All those things weaken your joy and your faith–which is your strength. Want to shut the enemy down? Start praising and thanking God.

2. Read His Word

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path” -Psalm 119:105.

You’re already saying, “I know. I know. I’ve heard this before.” But hearing something again and again is what helps revelation come. Yes. You’re going to hear powerful men and women of God repeat this again and again–because it’s importance cannot be overstated.

God’s Word works.

Do you need healing in your body? The answer is the Word. Do you need a miracle in your finances? The answer is the Word. Do you need a relationship restored? The answer is the Word. And…it’s how you draw near to God. He is the Word and the Word is God. If you want to know Him–really know Him–you will find out everything you want to know in His Word.

You cannot draw near to God without spending time in His Word. It’s a living document–and it was written personally for you. In fact, you will see revelation pop out of the pages that seems to be directed at you and exactly what you’re going through in the moment! That’s how you begin to feel close to God–drawing near to Him through the power of His Word.

3. Obey Him

“If you love me, obey my commandments” -John 14:15.

Obedience is no small thing. In fact, God is straight to the point in this verse–if you love Him, you’ll obey Him. When you desire to draw near to God, you will begin to have a deep desire to obey Him in all things–not just those you find convenient. You’ll dig into the Word and when you see an area where you’re missing it, you’ll want it fix it–fast.

When you begin to walk in total obedience to God and His Word, you will begin to see circumstances change in your life. Things you’ve been desiring for, hoping for, praying for will come to pass.

Don’t turn your blinders on–be sure you have eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart that receives correction and moves quickly into obedience. It may not be something big in your eyes, but the smallest areas of disobedience can often be the ones that hold you back the most.

So draw near to God by obeying Him daily. Listen for His still, small voice and obey the instructions He gives in His Word, and in your inner witness. You’ll move to higher levels of faith in God!

When you make a daily habit of thanking God, reading His Word, and obeying Him, you will be well on your way to drawing nearer to God and achieving new levels of victory in your life. He is calling you today to draw near. Will you answer?

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If you’ve struggled to lose weight and keep it off, you know it isn’t just as simple as trying the latest diet. Being fit and healthy is God’s will for you. So, don’t give up! If you’re ready to lose weight God’s way and become healthy for His service, try these simple tips to help you reach your goals.

  1. Take back your temple
    Your body is not your own. You were bought with a price–the precious blood of Jesus. God calls your physical body His temple (1 Corinthians 6:19), and He has given you stewardship over it. To do this, you must honor God with the decisions you make each day.  Honor Him by choosing life-giving foods for your body. Honor Him by exercising His temple and keeping it strong. You can take back your temple from years of poor eating and exercise habits; and enjoy strength, energy and a healthy weight!
  2. Break food addiction for good
    It isn’t something the Church talks about much, but the truth will set you free (John 8:32). Gluttony–or overeating–is sin. In fact, the drunkard and the glutton are mentioned together in Proverbs 23:20-21. According to Dr. Don Colbert, people become addicted to sugar, carbs and starches, which are all proven to cause disease in the body.
     

How can you break food addiction?

You can break food addiction with the help of the Holy Spirit. Lay poor food choices on the altar. Ask God for supernatural help to walk away from them and overcome addiction. Use the fruit of the spirit–self-control–and say no. If you are getting ready to attend a social function, visualize yourself ahead of time saying “No, thank you,” when offered something unhealthy.

Click here to get Dr. Colbert’s Confession to Overcome Sugar Addiction.

Dr. Colbert suggests 1,500 calories per day for women and 2,000 calories per day for men, when trying to lose weight. So, be sure your calories aren’t exceeding these amounts.

No matter what challenges you’ve faced in your past, you can be free of food addiction!
 

  1. Renew your mind
    You may have grown up having dessert every day, or in a house full of junk food. It may seem like a normal way of life to you. But, if you really want to lose weight and become healthy for God’s service, you’ve got to renew your mind to the truth in His Word. Make a study of His Word part of your weight loss plan. When you begin to renew your mind to how God sees you, you won’t want to turn to food for comfort anymore.

    Then, speak the Word over your weight loss. We overcome the devil and any obstacle by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11). So, don’t speak against your weight loss!

    Don’t say:

  • ​”I have bad genes–my whole family is overweight.”
  • “Every time I lose weight, I just put it right back on.”
  • “I just love junk food.”
  • “No matter how hard I try, I just can’t lose weight.”
  • “This is just who I am.”

Do say:

  • “I break every generational curse coming against my weight loss right now in the Name of Jesus!”
  • “I am going to lose this weight for the glory of God!”
  • “Thank You, God, that I am losing weight. Thank You that I’ve lost 5 pounds.”
  • “I take authority over food addiction right now in Jesus’ Name!”
  • “My body is the temple of God, and I commit to get it fit for work in His kingdom!”
  1. Reduce sugar intake
    Dr. Don Colbert shared on a BVOV broadcast the dangers of sugar and its role as fuel for major diseases like cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s. It is also the main cause of weight gain in America! Sugary foods and drinks have no nutritional value and only cause harm to your body. To lose weight, reduce sugar intake significantly. You’ll not only lose weight–you’ll have more energy!
  2. Have your thyroid checked.
    God has given us the blessing of wise counsel among His people. Dr. Colbert recommends having your thyroid checked if you are having trouble losing weight. He strongly encourages believers to seek out a physician who will test all areas of the thyroid–especially the Free T3–and not just use the basic thyroid test. He also recommends finding a doctor who will prescribe natural thyroid, such as Nature-Thyroid or Armour. If you’ve followed the first four steps, and still can’t lose weight, this may be the cause. The following are symptoms of a sluggish thyroid, according to Dr. Colbert:
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Feeling tired all the time
  • Losing the last third of your eyebrow
  • Dry skin
  • Constipation
  • Weight gain

When you take back your temple, break food addiction, renew your mind, reduce sugar intake and have proper testing, you’ll be well on your way to losing weight God’s way! You were meant to walk in total victory over your weight and your health. Take these steps and expect to have the best years of your life!

To learn more about health from Dr. Colbert, be sure to watch our broadcast.

Disclaimer: You must not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other professional healthcare provider. If you have any specific questions about any medical matter, you should consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website.

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Discernment is a word you often hear in Christian circles. But, what does it really mean, and how are we supposed to use it? Find out more here.

As Christians, we often hear the word discernment referred to as something we should expect to experience and use on a regular basis. It is a tool we’ve been given to help us operate with our spiritual eyes and ears, and to make right choices. Philippians 1:9 says, “And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment” (NASB).

So, what exactly is discernment?

  1. In other translations of Philippians 1:9, as sited above, the word discernment is used interchangeably with the words judgment, profound insight, perception and understanding. It also means “to see into,” “have knowledge,” or “detect.”
     
  2. Discernment is a “knowing” that can sometimes feel similar to a gut instinct–but it does not originate with us. It can often be a warning from God. If we sense pride, perversion, occultism or any other form of evil, our spirits will grow uncomfortable. We may not know exactly what is wrong with the person or his message, but we will sense danger and warn others to stay away from it.
     
  3. The ability to judge between right and wrong, truth and error–not just in the big and obvious issues that are against the Word of God, but in small, seemingly insignificant areas. It is a process of making careful distinctions between righteousness and unrighteousness.
     
  4. To think biblically without being tainted by worldly influences.
     
  5. The ability to judge between the Spirit of God and false spirits. First Thessalonians 5:21-22 (NASB) says, “But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.”

What does not fall under the heading of discernment?

  1. When you are discerning and “judging” between right and wrong, this is for your protection and wise decision-making, but it is also a call to intercession. It is not a call to faultfinding.
     
  2. Discernment should not result in being suspicious of others. Yes, you can receive warnings in the spirit and judge who you should spend time with, but it should not result in your feeling suspicious of everyone you meet or finding something bad in every person.
     
  3. It is not judging others, while refusing to judge yourself. We are called to examine ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:28), to keep from judging others (Matthew 7:1), and to walk in humility (Ephesians 4:2). Like any other ability given to us by God, it can be abused.

How is discernment different from the discerning of spirits?

Every believer is to operate and function with discernment in their everyday lives, but some have the gift of the discerning of spirits (1 Corinthians 12:8-10). Discerning of spirits is the God-given ability to detect (and distinguish between) the presence and identity of both good and evil spirits.

When you have the gift of discerning of spirits, God may reveal to you the presence of principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, and wicked spirits in heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12).  But it’s not always evil. You may also discern angels, those ministering spirits sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation (Hebrews 1:14).

How do you use discernment in your life?

  1. In a world that calls evil good and good evil, we need to be able to discern (judge, have a knowledge of, detect) what is right and wrong–what is of God and what is of the devil. And the devil’s sneaky. He wants to blur the lines for believers as much as possible, so they’ll have trouble knowing which way to go. He knows he can’t always be too obvious, so he slips in subtle deceptions to see if he can get us to take hold of the lies. That’s why the Bible tells us in end times, he will be able to deceive “even the elect” (Matthew 24:24, NIV).

So, if you let human reasoning and your flesh dominate you, you’ll reach a crossroad and won’t know which way to go. But God is not the author of confusion.

  1. To keep keen spiritual discernment, you’ve got to keep your mind stayed on the Word of God. You have to give it first place in your life–it has to be the FINAL word in your life, not just one of the options you can choose from. You can’t be afraid to choose life, choose righteousness, choose the unpopular route. You’ve got to stand for what is right and against what is wrong. That’s the life of a mature believer and a spirit that discerns.

Armed with the knowledge of what discernment is (and isn’t) and a true sense of how to use it in your life, you can go forth boldly and make decisions confidently. You can use your discernment to make choices for your family, your church, in the voting booth and in any other situation you face. You have everything you need in Christ Jesus!

When it comes to elections, do you often find yourself puzzled as to whom you should vote for? Do you even consider not voting? Well, we have a biblical responsibility to be good stewards of all God has given us–including our government. So, that means participating in the voting process is not optional, but who we select is up to us.

However, as Christians, this can be challenging at times–often leaving us with one question: Who should I vote for?

There are many times when none of the choices seem to be a perfect fit, but here’s something important to remember: Your vote for one candidate is not a proclamation of your full faith in that person. Instead, it’s a decision to honor God with good stewardship. No matter who is on the ballot, we will always be choosing between two fallen sinners. As Christians, we should be voting for people who will best represent and uphold biblical values.

So, whom should you vote for and how can you choose the right candidate? Below are some helpful tips to help:

1. Vote the platform, not the person. Each political party has a platform that describes what it believes and what direction it wants to move the country. Each candidate will try to meet his or her party’s goals. While some elections present better candidates than others, our job is to evaluate each major party platform, determine which most closely represents biblical values, and vote for that candidate out of obedience and honor to God’s Word.

For an official outline of the Democratic, Republican and Libertarian party platforms, click here.

2. Research the candidates’ stances on important biblical issues. When you find that you have several choices within the same platform, how can you narrow your choice down even further? The best way to foresee how a candidate will vote is to research and examine their record. Has this person voted to protect the sanctity of human life, traditional marriage and religious rights? Or have they voted against biblical values, or even remained silent? The evidence is in their former actions, so be sure to do your homework!

Find voter guides at christianvoterguide.com, ivoter.com or ivoterguide.

3. Guard against worldly influences. The news media and other voices from every corner will try to influence you and draw you in a direction away from the Spirit of God. Cleverly designed commercials and ideas abound on your television screen, but you can choose to turn them off and, instead, tune in to the voice of the Lord.

Don’t let the enemy bring a spirit of confusion into your God-ordained right and responsibility to impact our political process for righteousness. Take a stand, be a voice, and be a good steward of the government God has given you. Base your decision on the Word of God ONLY–not your neighbor, your mom, your friends or your favorite television stars. There is only one right way–God’s way.

4. Pray for the election and those in authority. During the election, and thereafter, we are called to pray for those in authority, according to 1 Timothy 2:1-2. That doesn’t mean only pray for those you like or agree with–it means pray for all who are in authority.

Don’t wait until election time is upon us before you start seeking God for whom to vote. Start praying now about the coming elections. Whether they are small local elections or major national elections, remember to pray for them regularly.  

Then, ask God to grant you wisdom in choosing the candidate that will best represent biblical values. Be sure that your decision is Spirit-led, rather than driven by emotion or media influences. Thank the Spirit of God for His wisdom concerning for whom to vote. Thank Him for giving you His wisdom about what to say and when to say it to others. Thank Him for giving you wisdom to declare the Name of Jesus and declare that this shall be a God-indwelt, God-ordained, God-overseen administration.

When you vote the platform and candidates who best align with God’s Word, avoid secular influences, and pray for elections and those in authority, you will choose the right candidate every time. Maybe not the perfect candidate–but the right one. Be a good steward of the election process, then pray and believe for God’s supernatural touch on our nation. He says when we humble ourselves and pray…He will heal our land (2 Chronicles 7:14)!

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Feel dominated by unwanted thoughts? Here’s how to control your thought life.

Have you ever had a thought come into your mind that you didn’t like? Maybe it was rude, sinful, mean or scary. You may have even thought, Where did that come from?

Wrong thoughts seem to come into our minds like phone calls. So, the first thing you need to ask yourself is, Who’s calling? Your thoughts only come from three places: you, God or the devil. A quick consideration will likely give you the answer. If it isn’t God–hang up!

That’s what it means to take every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5). If it doesn’t line up with the Word, it doesn’t belong in your mind. So, when you hear thoughts like, You’re not going to get healed; you’re going to die; you’ll never get promoted; how do you cast them down? Resist them. Answer them. Don’t let your thoughts go unanswered. Say, “I’m not taking that thought.”

So, what thoughts should we be thinking?

To find out, let’s unpack Philippians 4:8, which outlines each type of thought God wants us to entertain. When you think on what is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of a good report, virtuous and praiseworthy, you will control your thought life and become a spiritual powerhouse.

Whatever is true. What is true? The Word of God. The devil is a liar–and he stands for everything opposite of God’s Word. When you hear thoughts that are condemning, laced with guilt, critical of others or riddled with fear, they aren’t true because they aren’t of God. Anything that is contrary to the Word of God–a disregard for life or marriage, an argument against the tithe or any other command in the Word–is not truth. And it has no place in our thought lives.

Whatever is noble. The word noble means “righteous, good, honorable, moral, decent, upright.” To think on things that fit this description, we must keep ourselves from thinking things that are the opposite. This includes much of secular entertainment these days. To keep our thoughts on what is good and righteous, we must spend much of our time thinking about the Word of God, and not polluting our minds with the things of this world.

Whatever is just. It can often be difficult to not dwell on the injustices of the world–there are so many. But putting too much focus on them can be discouraging and breed bitterness, fear and discouragement. When we see injustice, we are called to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves (Proverbs 31:8), pray, and take action when appropriate.  But be careful not to let injustice dominate your thought life.

Whatever is pure. When we were instructed to flee from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18), that includes sexually immoral thoughts. Lustful thoughts are sinful and destructive, and a key way Satan seeks to control the lives of people in the world. If you struggle with impure thoughts, know this–you have been made free by the blood of Jesus! John 8:36 says, “So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.” Ask Him to help you and deliver you–He wants you free.

Whatever is lovely. Do you think lovely things about others? Or are you cruel and condemning? Love believes the best about others. So, be sure your thoughts toward those around you are lovely and kind–always looking for the good and asking the Lord to help you be a blessing and encouragement to them.

Whatever is of a good report. There are a lot of bad reports out there. The doctor, the news, our friends and relatives, books and magazines. If we aren’t paying attention, those reports will dominate our thought life. Some people say, “Well, I have to be informed.” It is sometimes helpful to know about world events, but it is not healthy or positive for you to dwell on every negative thing the devil is doing in this world. Keep your thoughts focused on a good report, and surround yourself with others who do the same.

Whatever is virtuous and praiseworthy. These things are a combination of everything listed above. Righteousness, purity, and just and loving thoughts are virtuous and worthy of praise.

When you seek to mold your thought life around those things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of a good report, virtuous and praiseworthy, you will know how to control your thought life and live above the devil’s reach. You can retrain your mind to start thinking in the way God has called you to think. So, start thinking good thoughts today!

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Are you wondering how to get your prayers answered? Learn how to pray the prayer of petition and see the answer every time!

“Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.” -1 John 5:14-15, NKJV

Are you facing a need in your life today? Maybe something in your body needs healing or there is a financial burden that has felt like a heavy weight on your shoulders. Or perhaps your marriage is struggling, and you need a breakthrough to get back what the devil has stolen. Whatever your need, God has provided the answer in His Word. You’ve likely already been praying about the situation you’re facing, but you may feel like something is missing in your petition.

Some Christians believe that prayers should be easy to say and easy to receive an answer to without them having any responsibility in the process. The truth is–Jesus provided everything we need, but He didn’t do everything for us. That’s where free will comes in. He provided reconciliation, Redemption, and victory over sin and all the works of the devil, but we have to make the decision to receive those things by faith.

How can you do this?

The key to having your prayers answered is this: Make sure you pray according to the will of God. The word petition from 1 John 5:15 is extremely important. It’s defined as “a formal written request addressed to a sovereign superior for a particular right or grace.” Here’s how to pray the prayer of petition that’s in line with the will of God, a petition that is certain to be granted:

1. Go to the written Word of God.

Find scriptures that apply to your situation, and make those the foundation for your petition. Be specific. Take your time. Study and meditate on those promises pertaining to your need.

2. Consult with the Holy Spirit.

Get in communication with the Holy Spirit, and let Him help you develop your petition in detail. Listen for correction or instruction, and follow His leading as you seek His blessings. An important part of doing this is praying in the spirit (Romans 8:26-27).

3. Write your petition.

Writing your petition to the Lord as a formal request, using His Word, is a powerful tool (Habakkuk 2:2).

The following is an example of a petition for healing:

Be it known this day, ________, at ________(a.m./p.m.), that I receive healing from _______________in my body. No sickness or disease of any kind has a place in my body. So, Father, in the Name of Jesus, I come boldly to the throne of grace and present Your Word.

According to John 16:23, Jesus said You will grant whatever I ask in His Name. In Mark 11:24, You said whatever I ask in prayer, believing I will receive it, will be given to me.

I declare, according to Isaiah 53:5; Psalm 103:2-5; Psalm 91:9-10, 14-16; and 1 Peter 2:24; that Jesus took all my sickness and disease today, tomorrow and forever. I am healed by the blood of the Lamb, and I am protected from all plagues and sickness. I am redeemed from the curse of the law, which includes sickness and disease of any kind (Galatians 3:13).

I bind Satan and all his forces according to Matthew 18:18, and declare they will not hinder me from receiving this promise. I loose my ministering spirits (Hebrews 1:13-14) and charge them to go forth and cause ______________to come into my hands.

I believe in my heart and declare with my mouth that I AM HEALED. I thank You and praise You for healing me of ___________, and I thank You for making me whole.

I believe I receive today. I will not waver or doubt at Your promise, but will stand firm. I praise You and thank You that I am not waiting for this to manifest–I take it right now and hold it in my spiritual hands.

Signature _______________________________ Date________________

4. Pray the prayer of petition.

With God’s promises in front of you, pray the answer through the prayer of petition. Petition Him with these promises from His Word. When you do, you are praying with precision, rather than around and around in circles. You won’t have to guess if your prayers are effective–they’re based on the Word of God!

5. Have confidence.

God always backs His Word. You can be confident that God will answer your prayer because it’s based on the promises He has spoken directly to you. Part of being confident is refusing to think or speak anything to the contrary. When you walk away from your prayer, your countenance should be different than when you first came to the Lord because you know that what you have asked will come to pass.

6. Praise God for the answer.

Psalm 8:2 and Matthew 21:16 say that praise stills the enemy and the avenger. Thanking God is faith in action. It says, “I believe before I see.” That’s the God kind of faith. This clears the channel between you and God, so you can receive from Him!

When you use these six steps to pray the prayer of petition, you will hit the bulls-eye in prayer every time. You won’t have to shoot prayers out into the open, wondering if you’ve accomplished your aim–you’ll know you have! Remember–it isn’t always instantaneous, so let patience have its perfect work, and keep standing in faith. Now, go forth, petition God based on His Word, expect your answer to come!

Related Articles:

3 Prayer Secrets From Gloria Copeland

How to Set and Meet Prayer Goals

A Recipe For Your Daily Quiet Time

Wondering how to get a breakthrough in your finances? Try these tips on how to take Communion over finances.

If you’re facing a challenging situation in your finances today, you may already be tithing, giving and speaking the Word over your circumstances. But if you haven’t yet achieved victory in this area, you may be wondering what else you can do, aside from standing for a manifestation. One powerful tool that is often overlooked by Christians is the taking of Communion.

The Lord’s Supper is much more than just a religious tradition–it symbolizes everything Jesus did for us at Calvary. When you partake of the cup (representing the blood), you are remembering that Jesus delivered you from sin. When you eat the bread (representing His body), you are acknowledging the physical and spiritual torment Jesus endured to deliver you from worry, care, fear, sickness, disease and every part of the curse.

God created the Lord’s Supper for a reason. When you receive it, you should plan to partake of everything Jesus’ sacrifice provided–salvation, peace of mind, healing and total prosperity. Otherwise, you’re neglecting to enjoy the gifts He sacrificed to give you.

You don’t have to wait until you go to church to receive Communion. You can receive it anytime and anywhere. In fact, if you haven’t made a practice of taking Communion on a regular basis, it’s time you start! The Communion table is the healing table, the deliverance table and the confession table.  It’s the powerhouse of God.

Every time we take Communion, it drives our roots even deeper into our faith in what the covenant of God means to us, and what the body and blood of Jesus has paid for us. We use our faith to take Communion, and we do so with determined purpose.

If you need a change in your financial situation, here are seven tips for taking Communion over your finances:

  1. Purchase a Communion set for your own personal use. There are even individual, prefilled cup and wafer sets with a long shelf life available for easy use or transport.
  2. You can take Communion alone, or with a family member or friend.
  3. You can take Communion every day. Taking Communion is appropriating the blood of Jesus over your life, thanking Him for ALL He has done. It isn’t a religious ceremony, so you don’t have to wait for a minister to serve it to you.
  4. Examine yourself before you take Communion. Before we partake, the Bible tells us to examine our hearts (1 Corinthians 11:28-29). Ask God for forgiveness in areas where you’ve missed the mark (strife, unforgiveness, jealousy, envy, hatred, covetousness, fear, worry, unbelief, etc.) Also, be sure you are not receiving Communion just as a religious exercise, rather than accepting everything Jesus’ sacrifice provided. Don’t receive it halfway; that will keep you from receiving everything provided by Jesus’ sacrifice (1 Corinthians 11:30).
  5. Partake of the bread, which symbolizes the physical and spiritual torment Jesus bore to redeem us from all areas of the curse. With this in mind, say, “Lord, it’s not right that I suffer from poverty or lack. I judge it now as being from Satan, and I reject it. I refuse to receive it any longer. I partake of the sacrifice of Your Son’s body, and I receive the abundant life that You provided, in Jesus’ Name.”
  6. Partake of the cup and make this confession: “Father, I give You thanks for all You have provided for me through the New Covenant in Christ Jesus. I partake of those promises now! I am healed. I am redeemed. I am the head and not the tail. I am above and not beneath. I take the prosperity You sacrificed to give me, and I thank You and praise You for it, in Jesus’ Name.”
  7. Be settled on the matter. Once you have taken Communion, settle your finances in your heart according to God’s Word. Don’t just hope it is done–know it.

No matter what you may be faced with–sin, sickness, drugs, a weight problem, worry, strife, old habits and any situation in your finances–you can be delivered through properly receiving the Lord’s Supper. The body and blood of Jesus covers every area of your existence.

Watch this video from Kenneth Copeland as he teaches more about taking Communion.

Place yourself before God and receive Communion as the children of Israel did–ready to receive deliverance in your finances! Take the time to put yourself before God over the Communion table. It will be time well-spent.

Related Articles:

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Do you have a weak spirit or a strong spirit? Check out these indicators to find out.

“The strong spirit of a man sustains him in bodily pain or trouble, but a weak and broken spirit who can raise up or bear?” –Proverbs 18:14 (AMPC)

When you go in for a routine check-up, the first thing your physician will do is check your vital signs. Vital signs are indicators of a strong or weak physical condition. In the same way, we have spiritual vital signs. Some indicate a strong spirit, but others can reveal a weak spiritual condition. If left undetected, a weak spirit will prevent you from receiving all that God has for you, and prevent you from living in the fullness of what He desires for you.

So, do you have a weak spirit or a strong spirit? Check out the indicators of a weak spirit and indicators of a strong spirit below. Once you know where you stand, you can take action to ensure you are tackling life with the strongest spirit possible.

Indicators of a Weak Spirit

1. You feel overwhelmed. Maybe you find yourself getting upset over the small things, and you feel like you can’t handle any more. If your schedule is overloaded, that’s a different matter. But, if you “faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small” (Proverbs 24:10, NKJV).

2. You feel hopeless. If you are experiencing a lack of joy, or feel discouragement and despair, you are experiencing hopelessness. A desire to quit or give up on your faith, or to stop pursuing the things you enjoy are also indicators (Proverbs 13:12).

3. You have become self-centered. Maybe you wouldn’t call yourself self-centered, but would others? A person who is self-centered is lacking in compassion toward others and often falls into a victim mentality–seeing problems as everyone else’s fault. (Romans 15:1)

4. You feel complacent. If you tend to be indecisive and indifferent about things in your life, you have likely moved into complacency. Being double-minded and tending to make wrong decisions are also symptoms of this mindset (Romans 4:20-21).

5. You are short-tempered. You are touchy, easily offended and overly sensitive. You can experience out-of-control anger and rage (Proverbs 16:32).

6. You are fearful. If you feel panicked and worried about things in life on a regular basis, or if anxiety is a regular part of your day, you are operating in fear (Job 4:5).

7. You are exhausted. Are you tired and weary? Stressed-out and drained? Maybe you are experiencing an inability to resist sin or temptation, or even to receive from God or others. This is an indicator of exhaustion, and ultimately, a weak spirit (2 Corinthians 4:1).

If you find that many of these indicators are true in your life–don’t despair! Developing a strong spirit takes work, but you can do it! You can leave a weak spirit behind and build a strong spirit.

In the same way we have indicators that reveal a weak spirit, we have spiritual vital signs of a strong spirit.

Indicators of a Strong Spirit

1. You are assured and confident. When you are assured and confident that what God said is true and will come to pass in your life, you will approach life with confident certainty and will not struggle with fear and doubt.

2. You are established and immovable. If your spirit is strong, you will not be afraid of bad news, or anything the devil tries to throw at you. You are fixed on the Lord and His Word, and you cannot be talked out of it.

3.You are ready for anything. Having a strong spirit doesn’t mean you don’t have any trials come your way–it means you know how to handle them when they do (Philippians 4:13).

4. You have an overcomer’s attitude. You know you are more than a conqueror and you apply that to your everyday life. You don’t let the devil get you down; you don’t let setbacks steal your joy; you don’t tolerate sickness, disease or lack in your life; and you stand for your family with everything you have–firmly planted on the Word of God.

5. You don’t give up and you NEVER quit. A person with a strong spirit won’t quit–no matter how long it takes for the Word to manifest in his or her life. If you have a strong spirit, long periods of time won’t move you; bad news won’t move you, and doubters all around won’t move you. You will not quit (Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 10:32; Nehemiah 8:10; Philippians 4:6-7).

6. You exhibit the fruit of the spirit. A strong spirit lives out love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentle­ness, goodness and faith. You won’t just say you believe in love, you’ll show it. You won’t just say, ‘We should have joy,’ you’ll live it.

So, how’d you do? Do you have a weak spirit or a strong spirit? Maybe you have some indicators of both, and that’s OK. We all have areas in our spirits we need to work on. No matter what condition you find your spirit in today, you can develop a strong spirit. You can walk in the fullness of everything God has for you. Make a quality decision to go after a strong spirit with all your heart, soul and mind. Conquer the weak places, and build up those that are already strong. By God’s enabling, you can be like David and leap over any wall!

Watch this video of Pastor George Pearsons and Gloria Copeland to discover more enemies of a strong spirit.

 

Related Articles:

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Have you ever faced the temptation to lose hope, grow weary and give up? Maybe you’re believing God for a miracle in your family, your body or your finances, but it’s just not happening. Has your faith failed?

No, this is not the failure of your faith…it is a breakdown of your hope.

What is hope? Real Bible hope involves supernatural expectancy. It’s not based on wishing or wanting–it is based on your covenant with God and the promises in His Word. Just knowing God’s promises isn’t enough, though. Hope comes when you begin to see yourself with what God has promised you, instead of seeing yourself without it. If you’ve grown weary while standing in faith for God’s promises, don’t give up! You can renew your hope, so that you have faith and strength to receive everything God has promised you.

Below are some simple ways to renew your hope and to stand strong in faith regarding whatever you’re believing for:

  • Make prayer and quiet time with the Lord a priority every day. Set an unbreakable appointment with God, so that you can worship, read His Word and pray. This is personal time with the Lord that allows you to commune and talk with Him, and also a time for you to hear directly from Him. For tips on how to improve your prayer life, click here.
  • Surround yourself with people of hope and faith. When you’re standing in faith for your healing and confessing healing scriptures all day every day, these people will encourage you to stand strong. People who are highly developed in unbelief will more likely encourage you to give up.
  • Keep the Word of God in your eyes and ears as many hours as possible each day, and keep anything against His Word out! Go on a fast from news and secular media, and totally immerse yourself in God’s Word.  Satan is peddling fear and doubt, but if you keep your attention on God’s Word, you won’t be exposed to any of it!

    The VICTORY Channel and our podcast are great ways to keep the Word going 24/7.

  • Refuse to quit. That’s the secret of those who make it to victory. They will not give up–no matter what circumstances may come their way. Now, you be the one who doesn’t quit, and you’ll see what you’re believing God for come to pass.
  • Mix faith, hope and love. It’s the secret sauce! If you’re missing or short on one ingredient, purpose to spend time in the Word and with the Lord to strengthen this area. Memorize scriptures specific to faith, hope or love–or all three!

If you’ve been facing a delayed manifestation and need to renew your hope, put these tips into practice. Before long, you will be standing strong and won’t be distracted by natural circumstances. You’ll have an expectancy that keeps your faith alive until those things you are believing for are pulled from the spiritual realm into the natural. You will be on your way to receiving your harvest!

Related Articles:

How to Go From Hope to Harvest

8 Scriptures to Stand on to Renew Your Hope

9 Reasons to Hope No Matter What

If you’ve ever taken a stand of faith for healing, finances, family or any other victory, you know you have a battle on your hands. The enemy knows we were created to triumph, but he has no intention of letting us get to victory without resisting us along the way.

So, when you find a promise in the Word of God and make a decision to stand on it for a manifestation, you may find the seeming delay wears on you until you feel that you’ve experienced a total faith failure. But…it wasn’t a faith failure! It was a breakdown of your hope. If you feel like your faith has turned to desperation, it’s time to get your hopes up! It’s the key to victory.

Start today with these 8 scriptures to stand on to renew your hope:

  1. “I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called–his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance” –Ephesians 1:18.
     
  2. “In those days you were living apart from Christ. You were excluded from citizenship among the people of Israel, and you did not know the covenant promises God had made to them. You lived in this world without God and without hope” –Ephesians 2:12. As a believer, you do have hope!
     
  3. “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love” –1 Corinthians 13:13, NKJV.
     
  4. “According to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death” -Philippians 1:20, NKJV.
     
  5. “But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance” -Romans 8:25, NKJV.
     
  6. “Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping…” -Romans 4:18.
     
  7. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” -Hebrews 11:1, KJV.
     
  8. “This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast…” -Hebrews 6:19, NKJV. 

Make these 8 scriptures to stand on to renew your hope a part of your daily routine until your mind is renewed and your hope is restored. As you read your Bible each day, locate and highlight more to add to your collection. Then, watch your words, guard your heart and get ready for a harvest!

Related articles:

How to Go From Hope to Harvest

How to Renew Your Hope

9 Reasons to Hope No Matter What

When you accepted Jesus as your Savior and Lord, you joined God’s family. You became one of His children, and you received the same rights and privileges that Jesus has. Romans 8:17, NKJV, refers to you as a “joint heir” with Jesus. What a powerful description! You are no longer a sinner saved by grace; you are a joint heir with Jesus, raised up to do the Father’s business. And you have work to do. Of course, you can’t even begin to be effective in what God has called you to do until you see yourself the way God sees you.

Think about it. If you cower in a spiritual corner, will you truly be ready to go out in the power and authority of Jesus Christ, ready to take the Word of God to the lost, believe for healing for the hurting, and stand against the work of the enemy? No, if you view yourself as a sinner who will one day barely crawl through the gates of heaven, then you’ll see yourself as powerless and unworthy of the authority Jesus died to give you.

Take a look at these verses concerning your position as a child of God:

  • Ephesians 1:5: “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.”
     
  • Galatians 4:5-7: “God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, ‘Abba, Father.’ Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.”
     
  • John 1:12: “But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”
     
  • Romans 8:14-19a: “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, ‘Abba, Father.’ For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory.”

Now think about the truth of those scriptures. You were:

  • Happily adopted by God
  • Made to be one of His children
  • Filled with Jesus’ Spirit
  • Freed from slavery
  • Given rights as God’s child
  • Made an heir.

Realize that historically, adoption was a very serious subject. To be adopted, especially in a royal family, meant that the child would receive the same rights, name and inheritance that the blood children received. Families did not give that privilege lightly. They worked to preserve the lineage of families so that royal blood flowed through every successor.

But God set that aside.

God made a way for every person–Jew and Gentile–to partake in His inheritance. And what an inheritance it is! God didn’t give this inheritance so that you would cower in the corner and refuse to make contact with Him. He didn’t give this inheritance so that you would repeat over and over (either verbally or mentally), “I’m not worthy, I’m not worthy.” And He didn’t give this inheritance so that you would refuse to claim your rights, saying, “Oh no, I couldn’t ever do that. I’m just a sinner saved by grace. I’ll just sit here, take whatever comes my way and be content.” No, your Father gave you a royal inheritance so that you could “quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us” (John 9:4).

So, get rid of the religious attitude that says you’re a sinner saved by grace. Start seeing yourself as a child of the Most High God–a joint heir with Jesus–who has “the desire and the power to do what pleases him” (Philippians 2:13)!

Anyone who wants to know God–to walk closely with Him–must obey Him. There is no way that we can come into a close relationship with the Lord, walk fully in THE BLESSING, and enjoy the communion that our spirits desire without obeying Him. If we will walk with Him, obey His Word, and follow the direction and lead of the Holy Spirit, we will enjoy the close relationship with Him that we desire. Just look at these three examples of people in the Old Testament who enjoyed walking closely with the Lord, and note how obedience played such a vital part in each of their relationship with the Lord.

1. Enoch

The Word records that “Enoch lived in close fellowship with God” for 300 years (Genesis 5:22)! Imagine spending 300 earthly years in close fellowship with the Lord–obeying His commands, learning His ways and caring for the things that most concern Him. That was Enoch’s life. And the result? Scripture tells us that Enoch did not experience an earthly death. Instead, “he disappeared, because God took him” (verse 24).

2. Noah

Noah lived during a dark time. Scripture tells us that evil had grown to such an extent on the earth that “the Lord was sorry he had ever made [humanity]” (Genesis 6:6). Then He said He would “wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing” (verse 7). It was a desolate time, but then the Lord looked and saw Noah. The Word notes that “Noah found favor with the Lord” (verse 8). Instead of conforming to the wickedness of the civilization around him, Noah upheld morality and goodness. The result of Noah’s obedience was that he and his entire family were saved from the flood that destroyed every other living thing on earth.

3. Adam

Now we all know about Adam’s failure, but consider his life before that detrimental mistake. He had walked in communion–daily relationship–with the Lord. God had breathed life into him (Genesis 2:7), set him in the magnificent Garden of Eden where all his needs were met (verse 15) and then He gave him the privilege of naming all the animals (verse 19). That was the result of Adam’s obedience. He was set with a blessed life! In fact, his wife, Eve, was too. They only needed to continue to obey the Lord. Sadly, Adam followed the enemy’s voice and betrayed the trust that God had placed in him instead. That disobedience cost Adam big! He and Eve were thrown out of the Garden, forfeited THE BLESSING and endured hardship the rest of their lives.

God promises that if we will obey Him, blessing will follow. Just look at these verses that show the connection between God’s BLESSING and obedience:

  • Joshua 1:8: “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and
    night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.”
  • Isaiah 1:19: “If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat.”
  • John 14:21: “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”

We cannot claim to love God without obeying Him. Let’s commit to obey Him with heartfelt love and show an appreciation for all He has done for us. We serve a big, magnificent, awe-inspiring God. Let’s obey Him immediately and wholeheartedly so we can walk with Him closely!

God desires to know you–and for you to know Him. “I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people,” He said in 2 Corinthians 6:16. And again in Hebrews 8:10, “This is the new covenant I will make with the people of Israel on that day, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their minds, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”

In fact, this is a recurring theme–starting in Genesis–that appears dozens of times throughout Scripture. God wants to know you and for you to know Him!

Fulfillment in Jesus

This deep desire from the Father is fulfilled in Jesus. It’s through Him that we can get to know the Father personally. We’ve been invited to know Jesus and, by extension, our Father God. What a privilege!

Jesus confirmed, “My Father has entrusted everything to me. No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him” (Matthew 11:27).

The connection is so strong, when the Pharisees asked Jesus about the Father, He sharply answered, “Since you don’t know who I am, you don’t know who my Father is. If you knew me, you would also know my Father” (John 8:19).

Knowing Jesus

There’s nothing quite like knowing Jesus! When you become a Christian, Jesus spiritually bonds with you. He comes into you, and you enter into Him. As you get to know Him more and more each day, you draw closer, and find life more and more fulfilling and rich.

You get to know Jesus through His Word, His works, prayer and even other believers. “At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view,” wrote the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:16. “How differently we know him now!”

There’s another key way to know Jesus–and that’s through obedience. 

Walking in Obedience

“If you love me,” said Jesus, “keep my commands” (John 14:15, NIV).

Throughout Scripture, obedience is closely linked to knowing the Lord intimately. Noah “walked in close fellowship” with God (Genesis 6:9). Enoch did too (Genesis 5:24). So did Adam (Genesis 3:8)–and that fellowship was only broken when Adam disobeyed the Lord. Scripture is jampacked with examples of regular people who, unlike the rest of their culture, chose to obey God and got to know Him,. When they did, they placed themselves in a place of great blessing (Luke 11:28, Exodus 19:5, James 1:25). When they didn’t, they had to fend for life on their own (Joshua 5:6).

That’s why it’s imperative that as believers who love the Lord, we do what He commands! And there’s no better guide to knowing what His commands are than by reading His Word. Genesis to Revelation is full of God’s will and instructions for His people. As you dig into God’s Word and prayer, He will reveal Himself to you, and you will want to be obedient.

Love One Another

Second John 1:6 takes the call to obedience a step further.

“Love means doing what God has commanded us,” wrote the Apostle John in 2 John 1:6, “and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning” (emphasis added).

Knowing God and obeying His voice doesn’t stop with reading His Word and spending time in prayer. If we want to truly know God, we must choose to love our brothers and sisters in Christ. We must love one another–just as He has loved us.

Loving one another means walking in love in all we do (1 Corinthians 13). It means being patient and kind, not jealous, boastful, proud or rude. It means not being irritable, demanding our own way or rejoicing over injustice. “Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance” (1 Corinthians 13:7).

If you want to know God, get to know Jesus today through the Word and prayer, and by loving others. As you do, you’ll find your relationship with Him skyrocket to new heights. And the Lord will love that…because He wants to know you and have you know Him!

In the 1960s, Kenneth and Gloria Copeland were deeply in debt, stretched thin, living from paycheck to hopeful paycheck.

Gloria recalls, “Right after we got married, Ken went into a business enterprise that we thought was going to make us rich. So, I quit my job and went to work for this new company. Two weeks later, it folded.” She added, “We were flat broke. Unemployed. Deeply in debt. I had nowhere to go. No furniture. No nothing.”

Then God showed up in their lives, as they discovered two scriptures that changed everything for them. Through these scriptures, they began their journey of getting to know the Word, getting to know Jesus…and these scriptures are just as relevant and life-changing today for you, too.

Seek God First

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33, KJV).

“Our part’s simple,” says Gloria Copeland. “God’s done the hard part.”

Our part, of course, is seeking Him above all else. Seek God first. Live your life with God and His Word at the forefront. As Kenneth and Gloria made that heart-shift, they saw that God was faithful. “All these things”–physical things, emotional things, spiritual things–whatever they were lacking, God provided as they opened the door to His blessings, to all He had for them. And He’ll do the same for every believer who takes Him at His Word!

For the Copelands, this changed everything. And then they discovered more…

Have Faith in God

“And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith” (Mark 11:22-23, KJV). 

This second verse that they discovered shortly after the first became a second cornerstone verse in the Copelands’ lives. They realized that Jesus was saying they could live their lives–actively–through faith. 

“How do you get to where you believe that?” Gloria asks “It’s by putting the Word of God…in your eyes and your ears. And it gets down in your heart, and you bring it back out of your mouth, and you take it.” 

Healing, financial security, restored relationships–heaven on earth–is available to believers today when you put your faith in God. Victory isn’t just for the afterlife.

Seek God first and put your faith in Him. These two things changed the Copelands’ lives forever…and they can change yours, too!

In the natural, most of us take measures to protect our homes and families. We lock our doors or use security systems. But, what about spiritually protecting our homes?

Through the blood of Jesus and Psalm 91, you are promised protection from every danger–sickness, disease, assault, crime, tornadoes, fire and any other threat to your safety and well-being. But God’s protection is not automatic. There are things you have to do in order for God to be your refuge. 

One way to appropriate your faith for supernatural protection is to anoint your home with oil. Oil represents the power of the Holy Spirit and is a symbol of faith in God’s ability to cleanse and make holy. It is an act of consecrating your home to Him.

All you need is some oil (olive, sesame, canola, etc.)  and a Bible. You can also find anointing oil at your local Christian bookstore, which is typically infused with myrrh, cassia and other essential oils. However, no special oil is required as it is simply a way for believers to release their faith in the finished work of Christ. When you pray over or consecrate the oil, it is set apart and becomes anointing oil. 
 

After you have prayed over the oil, follow these steps:

  1. Remove anything with evil roots from your home. This can be books, movies, clothing with certain pictures or symbols, or objects that have a connection to wrong spirits.
     
  2. Pray aloud in every room. Invite the Holy Spirit to fill every inch of your home. Pray that only His will be done and that everything that is said and done in your home will be pleasing to Him. This is a way of consecrating, or dedicating, your home to Him.
     
  3. Rebuke the power of darkness and any attempt of the enemy against your home or family.
     
  4. Plead the blood of Jesus over each room and your family. There is great power in the blood of the Lamb!
     
  5. As you do these things, place oil on the frame of every door in your home. Do this by faith, believing and receiving God’s supernatural protection over your home and family.

“And the yoke will be destroyed because of the anointing oil.” -Isaiah 10:27, NKJV

Learn more about how to create a godly atmosphere in your home here.

Related Article:

The Four Walls of Protection

“Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches” -Proverbs 24:3-4, NKJV.

If you’ve been desiring to build a house like the house described in Proverbs 24:3-4, there are some practical ways to start–and they all have to do with atmosphere.

An atmosphere is defined as “a pervading or surrounding influence or spirit, general mood or environment.” We live in two atmospheres–one is physical and the other is spiritual. We’re focusing on creating a godly spiritual atmosphere for your home.

In Genesis 1, the earth’s atmosphere was dark and empty–that is until God spoke. It didn’t automatically take on the spiritual atmosphere of God. He had to fill the atmosphere with what He wanted to occupy that space.

The same is true for us. We have a spiritual atmosphere in our homes that we can energize with the power of the Holy Spirit, or leave blank for anything or anyone to permeate. The latter is much too dangerous. If we fail to play offense, we’ll end up playing defense and wearing ourselves down with unnecessary trials.

How can you fill your atmosphere with the Word of God? Try these simple, but powerful, ideas at home:

  • Load an MP3 player with the entire Bible. Connect it to small desktop speakers and place it in the main living space of your home. Set it to ‘repeat’ and let it run on low volume 24 hours a day, seven days a week. No matter where you are or what you’re doing, the Word of God is being spoken into the atmosphere of your home!
  • Turn on the VICTORY Channel, and let it play in your home.
  • Play worship music softly throughout the day.
  • Speak the Word of God out loud as you go about your daily tasks.

In addition to these, make prayer and quiet time with the Lord a priority every day. If you’ve been facing any challenges in your home, you will see a shift in your atmosphere when you invite Him to permeate every inch of your home!

When you read the Bible, it can change your life. Why then do so many read page after page and never see the breakthrough they need? Many times, it’s because they’re approaching God’s Word from what they see and feel instead of allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth directly to their spirits–and then to their minds. 

If you want to receive all you can from the Lord during your Bible study time, you’ll need to set yourself in the position to receive revelation knowledge. Here are five proven steps you can follow, to hear from the Lord when you read His Word and receive the life-changing truth He has just for you.

1. To receive revelation knowledge, read a scripture several times.

When a verse or a passage piques your interest, stop and meditate on it (Joshua 1:8). Read it once…twice…again and again. Let each word linger in your spirit. As you do, let the words roll around in your mind and spirit and allow them to take on powerful, personal meaning.

2. To receive revelation knowledge, ask God to reveal the meaning of specific scriptures to you.

James 1:5 states, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” God delights in your asking questions. Take time to pray and ask the Lord exactly what a scripture means, both in the context of the passage and to your life, today.

3. To receive revelation knowledge, listen for God to speak to you.

After you’ve prayed and asked God for wisdom, quiet yourself, and listen for Him to speak directly to you. “Be still, and know that I am God!” says Psalm 46:10. In stillness, you can hear Him directing you, guiding you, and allowing you to know Him and His Word better than ever.

4. To receive revelation knowledge, give God thanks.

As you hear the still, small voice of the Lord speak to you (1 Kings 19:12), give Him thanks and “enter His gates” (Psalm 100:4, NASB). Giving thanks to the Lord by faith puts your heart in a position to receive the specific word He has just for you.

5. To receive revelation knowledge, put the word you receive into action.

“Faith by itself,” says James 2:17, “if it does not have works, is dead” (NKJV). Revelation knowledge can open your eyes and give you pause, but you must make it an active part of your life–and put whatever the Lord speaks to you into practice, if you want it to truly make a change in your life.

One of Gloria Copeland’s favorite phrases is, “One word from God can change your life forever!” And it can–when you receive the revelation knowledge He has for you. Read the Word, pray, listen, give thanks and put the Word into action. When you do, your life will never…ever…be the same again! 

Sometimes it’s easy to have faith for God to heal someone else…but when it comes to healing you and you haven’t seen the end result yet, you can’t help but wonder…Is it God’s will to heal me?

If you’ve ever wondered that yourself, then let’s set the record straight once and for all: It IS God’s will to heal you!

Jesus Healed Everyone

Jesus was God’s will expressed on the earth. And in the gospel of Luke, it was recorded that Jesus came upon a whole multitude of people who needed healing. Here’s what happened:

When they came down from the mountain, the disciples stood with Jesus on a large, level area, surrounded by many of his followers and by the crowds. There were people from all over Judea and from Jerusalem and from as far north as the seacoasts of Tyre and Sidon. They had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those troubled by evil spirits were healed. Everyone tried to touch him, because healing power went out from him, and he healed everyone (Luke 6:17-19).

Jesus healed everyone! The King James Version says, He “healed them all”! Not some of them. Not those who were the most vocal. Not those who begged. His grace extended to each and every person in the multitude (and that’s a lot!).

Jesus Paid the Price

The fact of the matter is, God’s will is to heal everyone–and that includes you. When Jesus died on the cross, “it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down…. But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed” (Isaiah 53:4-5).

Take Your Healing

Receiving healing from Him is a matter of “taking it” in the same way you “take” your salvation by believing by faith and speaking God’s Word (Romans 10:9-10).

First Peter 2:24, NKJV, says, “who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness–by whose stripes you were healed” (emphasis added).

You were healed 2,000 years ago when Jesus died on the cross and rose again. He did it for you, out of grace and love for you, because God wants you healed–spirit, soul and body.

Is it God’s will to heal me?

Yes, without a doubt. His Word is consistent on this point. Receive His healing for yourself today, and no matter what the devil may try to say, don’t ever let go! Your healing is a breakthrough away!

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” –2 Timothy 2:15, KJV

To better understand Scripture and to glean all you can from it, it’s important to understand to whom a particular book is written. This is not to say we can’t glean wisdom or truth from every book of the Bible, but understanding a book’s audience will help us understand the original meaning behind it.

Recently, while teaching on this very subject on the Believer’s Voice of Victory broadcast, Billye Brim said, “If you don’t understand how to rightly divide the Word, you’re going to have the Church doing things that don’t apply to us. They apply to the Jews, they apply to the nations, but they don’t apply to us. So, you really have to know how to rightly divide the Word.” 

During the almost 1,400 years that the Bible was written, there were three people groups God addressed–the Hebrews, the Gentiles and the Church (1 Corinthians 10:32).

The Hebrews, or Jewish People

The Hebrew people, also known as the Jewish people or the Israelites, are God’s chosen people. Much of the Old Testament was written to them. The first five books of the Bible, the Torah, present the history of the Jewish people as well as laws for setting up their society. Other books include more history, wisdom as well as revelations and messages from God’s prophets.

The Gentiles

The definition of a gentile is “a person who is not Jewish.” So, if you’re not a Jew, then you’re a gentile. In the Bible, gentiles are also known as the “Greeks” or the “nations.” The gentiles were those people who were influenced by the Jewish people or who came up against them. Sometimes these nations came to see the supremacy of the Lord and renounced their false gods in favor of The One True God. Consider Jonah’s warning to the people of Nineveh to turn from their wicked ways, and the Edomites in the book of Obadiah.  People from the nations even showed up in the book of Acts, and they share in the history of the first century church.

The Church

The Church, or the Body of Christ, is a group of people comprised of both Jews and Gentiles who believe that Jesus is the Son of God, who was put to death on a cross, resurrected on the third day, is now seated at the right hand of God in heaven, and will return for them one day. In the beginning, the Body of Christ relied on divinely inspired messages from the apostles to show them how to live. Interestingly, the Greek word for church, ekklesia, means “called out.” That’s exactly what God was doing with this new band of believers. He called them out of their former lives–either as Jews or as Gentiles, and used authors like Mark, John, Paul and Peter to teach them how to live in their new calling as children of The Most High God.  Much of the New Testament was written for their–and our–benefit.

Scripture tells us that “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. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” (2 Timothy 3:16). As we learn to learn to “rightly divide the Word” by understanding to whom it was originally written, we’ll gain even deeper revelation, knowledge and understanding. Then we can trust the Holy Spirit to teach us how to apply what we’ve learned for the Lord’s glory. Praise God!

Is there someone you need to forgive? Does the mere thought of that person or situation fill you with dread or anger or sadness? If so, it’s time to let the offense go, and grab on to forgiveness instead. No matter what happened–abuse, betrayal, injustice or something else–it’s time to let it go. Here’s why:

1. Forgiveness Brings Freedom

You will never be truly free from that situation until you extend forgiveness. It will continue to replay in your mind and burden you. By extending forgiveness, you are not lessening the person’s guilt or excusing what they did. You are instead saying, “I no longer take account of it.” The result is that you get free. You get free from the burden of holding on to unforgiveness.

2. Forgiveness Brings Healing

You are a person with a spirit, a soul and a body. Those three areas are intricately intertwined. Each one affects the others. If your soul, which is made of your mind, will and emotions, is troubled, there is a strong possibility that your body will suffer, too. Unforgiveness leads to anxiety which opens the door to all sorts of physical ailments like muscle soreness, migraines, high blood pressure and even cancer.[1]

3. Forgiveness Exhibits God’s Love

Think back to the time when you accepted Jesus as Lord. What kind of person were you? How did you live? How did you think? “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8). Think about that verse in light of your own experience. God looked past all the muck and extended forgiveness to you. He didn’t do it because you deserved it. He did it out of love. When you forgive, you are exhibiting that same love. The person may not deserve your forgiveness; that doesn’t matter. You are following a different measurement.

4. Forgiveness Is an Act of Faith

The Word defines faith as “the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see” (Hebrews 11:1). You may not be able to see the result of forgiveness. Instead, it is an act of faith. You are releasing the person or event and trusting God to work it for good (Romans 8:28). In addition to your own freedom and peace, God may eventually use your forgiveness to minister to others–possibly about the act of forgiveness or the situation from which you found freedom.

When Jesus was on the cross, He exhibited forgiveness when He said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). He had been victimized and humiliated, hanging naked before the world in excruciating pain as the soldiers gambled for His clothes. And yet in the midst of that scene, He extended forgiveness and even prayed for those who wronged Him.

Your pain is not something to be taken lightly; neither is your future. And when you forgive, you are taking your future. You are saying, “I have been forgiven, and I will forgive. I didn’t deserve the forgiveness I received, but God gave it to me anyway. Therefore, I will forgive–taking no more account of this wrong–and I will trust God to work this situation in my life for good, just as His Word promises. Thanks to God’s love and grace, I am free!”

Don’t wait another day to release those who have wronged you, and enjoy the freedom that forgiveness brings!

[1] Johns Hopkins Medicine, “Forgiveness: Your Health Depends on It“

When you plant a seed, how does it flourish? While the specifics may differ across the varieties of vegetables, fruit, grains, flowers and trees, the basics are the same. Every plant needs water, food, quality soil and sunshine, and most strongly benefit from weeding and pruning. Beneath the surface of the soil, intricate, divinely orchestrated processes are taking place that we aren’t even aware of. They, however, work on a specific timetable, knowing when it’s the proper time to push forth and show off the plant’s sprouts. Eventually, these processes culminate in a harvest–flowers bloom, fruit ripens on the vine, and trees climb into the forest’s canopy. It’s a bountiful cycle that brings beauty and provision.

But what about the harvests in our own lives? The idea of us reaping a harvest may feel foreign. We’ve all heard about the importance of sowing and giving. We sow seeds into unbelievers’ lives that will hopefully bring about salvation. We sow seeds of good deeds as a way to bless others in our families, neighborhoods, communities and churches. We sow offerings above our tithes according to the Holy Spirit’s leading. We are called to more than sowing, though. We are also called to reap a harvest from what we sow. God means for us to enjoy our harvests. Let’s dive into what God’s Word says about the powerful concept of the harvest.

1. Types of Harvest

Before we explore how to call in our harvests, we must first understand the different types of harvest. The New Testament references three types of harvest: salvation, character and blessing.

Salvation

The most common, and perhaps the most important, harvest is salvation. Jesus spoke of this: “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels–a plentiful harvest of new lives” (John 12:24).

God likens the planting of His Word into people’s hearts to sowing, and their salvation to the harvest. Over and over, we are reminded to be mindful of this eternal reward.

Character

There are also many references to reaping a harvest of character that is sown from the seeds of good deeds. James 3:18 tells us, “And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.” Hebrews 12:11 says, “No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening–it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.”

To enjoy the harvest of peace, joy and righteousness takes diligence and the perseverance to keep choosing God’s way even when our flesh doesn’t want to make those choices.

Blessing

Finally, there are opportunities to reap a harvest of blessing. Second Corinthians 9:10 explains it this way: “For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.” Galatians 6:9 encourages us to “not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”

God loves His children passionately and has no qualms about opening heaven’s storehouse to bless His kids. When we obey Him through our giving and our actions, He promises to bless us. Of course, we are not simply the receivers of God’s blessings. We are conduits through which God blesses humanity. We are blessed to be a blessing!

2. Time of Harvest

Farmers understand that the harvest is a season that happens for certain crops at certain times of the year, and it’s no different in our lives. Every field in our lives–relationships, ministries, dreams, hopes and careers–goes through seasons of sowing and harvest. By examining those fields and yielding to the Holy Spirit, we will learn to recognize when our harvest seasons are near.

James 5:7 tells us, “Dear brothers and sisters, be patient as you wait for the Lord’s return. Consider the farmers who patiently wait for the rains in the fall and in the spring. They eagerly look for the valuable harvest to ripen.”

Like farmers, we shouldn’t be caught unaware. Prayer, tithing, watching our words, serving others and watering our seeds with thanksgiving and praise are all ways we can prepare to welcome the harvest the Lord brings. These are also valuable in fending off the enemies of the harvest.

3. Enemies of the Harvest

Physical crops have enemies like tempestuous weather, disease, bugs, poor nutrition and drought. Our crops also have enemies like laziness and discouragement.

Laziness

Proverbs 20:4 says, “Those too lazy to plow in the right season will have no food at the harvest.” If we’ve never even started sowing, we can’t expect a harvest! And if we’ve only planted, but have never returned to our fields to tend to them, the harvest doesn’t stand a chance. We must be diligent in preparing for our harvests by obeying the Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit and by thanking our heavenly Father in advance for His provision and blessings.

Discouragement

The culture in which Jesus lived was more closely tied to agriculture than we are today. While many of us are more removed from physical planting and sowing seasons, we understand the hands-on grittiness that’s required of the farmer. His hands and clothes get dirty because sowing is dirty business.

Sowing into other people’s lives can also require you to get your hands dirty. Discouragement can be hiding around any corner, but we must fortify our hearts and minds against that insidious intruder. Hebrews 10:35-36 tells us, “So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.”

Discouragement can also distract us from other harvests, too. Perhaps we’re in need of a job, startup money for a new business, medical bills paid, tuition for our children’s school, or money to cover our increased living expenses. The Holy Spirit may lead us to give a special offering (e.g., money, time, gifts, talents) as a demonstration of our faith in God’s blessing. In cases like this, standing against discouragement is paramount. We must remember Jesus’ words: “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full–pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back” (Luke 6:38). The enemy may work to discourage us, but, using the Word and our confession, we can trust in the Lord’s promises and rest knowing our harvest is coming!

When we understand the type, times and enemies of the harvest, we understand a powerful concept from God’s Word. The Bible says that as long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest will remain (Genesis 8:22). We must make the quality decision to sow according to the Holy Spirit’s leading, and trust that He will bring our harvest to us as we are diligent to reap. Then, we will be working with the Lord of the harvest and not against Him (Matthew 9:38). Let’s call in our harvest for His glory!

Learn how to call in your harvest! Get 7 Steps to Calling in Your Harvest here. 

During the three years of Jesus’ ministry, there was one thing that hindered His ability to work miracles more than anything else–unbelief. In Nazareth, for example, Jesus’ neighbors and childhood friends refused to accept Him. He was met with resistance and as a result, “He did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief” (Matthew 13:58). Just as unbelief hindered Jesus’ ministry in the first century, unbelief continues to hinder believers today. In fact, there are two ways Christians practice unbelief that keep them from experiencing all the Lord has for them.

1. By Not Knowing God’s Word

God has given His Word to mankind so that we can know Him and better understand His will. Second Timothy 3:16 tells us: “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. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” What a glorious gift the Lord has given us! And yet, how many Christians resist picking it up and reading it? How many believers do not make Bible study a part of their lives? Sadly, if we don’t know what God has already told us in His Word or if we ignore the wealth of knowledge and wisdom contained within it, then we will surely fall into unbelief. We will begin to trust the world’s wisdom instead of God’s.

2. By Not Acting on God’s Word

Of course, knowing what the Word says and acting on it are two different things. If we refuse to act on the Word, then we limit the influence it can have on us. For instance, we may know how to stand in faith, but if we refuse to do it, we won’t reap the rewards. James 1:22 tells us, “Don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.” If we want to enjoy a Spirit-led, faith-filled life, we must not only give the Word a premier position in our lives–reading, studying, discussing, praying about and memorizing it–we must also act upon it. For example, among other things, we must:

Living a life of faith and enjoying the benefits of a life of faith take effort. One of the first steps to both is removing unbelief from our lives. By focusing on the Word and acting upon what we learn from it, unbelief will be removed and we’ll enjoy the Spirit-led life that we desire to live, filled with faith. Then we’ll know with certainly that “with God nothing shall be impossible” (Luke 1:37, KJV)!

“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” -Romans 12:3, KJV

According to Romans 12:3, God has given every believer “the measure of faith” (KJV). That phrase, “the measure of faith,” tells us something powerful about faith and the Christian walk and how it applies to you. If you want your faith to grow, if you desire to trust the Word of God implicitly, knowing that because of it you can trust God to handle whatever difficulties arise –whether illness, financial distress, unemployment or whatever else comes your way–then there’s good news. As a born-again believer, you have the ability to make that desire a reality. Let’s explore “the measure of faith” that you have been given.

1. Faith Is for Christians

It’s important to understand that Romans 12:3 (and the rest of the book of Romans) wasn’t written to unbelievers. It was speaking to Christians, people who had accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.  Therefore, when it talks about “the measure of faith,” it’s not saying that faith is available to everyone in the world, but rather that it’s available to believers.

Second Thessalonians 3:2, KJV, supports this statement when it says, “And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” The “unreasonable and wicked men” spoken about in this verse refers to unbelievers. They are the ones who don’t have faith.

So, if you’re wondering why your unsaved grandmother, brother or neighbor can’t understand your spiritual walk or is unable to stand in faith with you for healing, deliverance, provision, restitution, etc., understand it’s because they haven’t yet received “the measure of faith.” Salvation is required for that measure to be present. You, on the other hand, have already received it because Jesus is your Lord and Savior. You are a new creation in Christ; therefore, you have faith (2 Corinthians 5:17).

2. You Have the Same Faith as Jesus

There are not different kinds of faith depending on who you are or the role you play in the Body of Christ. You may look at someone who seems to have strong, world-changing faith and think, “Gee, I’ll never be like that person. That person is so confident and secure in his spiritual walk. That’s not me.”

Hogwash!

“The measure of faith” is the same for every believer, and it is the same faith that Jesus possessed. Different believers may have developed and strengthened their faith over time and by the Word, but their faith is no different than yours. You have that same capability.

3. Only You Can Build Your Faith

“The measure of faith” that is developed and strengthened in you comes from one place–the Word of God. Romans 10:17 tells us, “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (KJV).

If you want to be a person who is confident and secure in your spiritual walk, someone who has strong, world-changing faith, then you must spend time reading, studying and meditating on God’s Word. It’s the only way to achieve the strength of faith you desire.

In addition to studying the Word for yourself, you can also listen to more mature believers teach you about faith and the Word by listening to podcasts and watching broadcasts like the Believer’s Voice of Victory. You can also attend retreats through your church or other meetings like the Southwest Believers’ Convention. These are important tools for immersing yourself in the Word and learning how to interpret and apply the Word correctly. In time, your faith will begin to strengthen. You’ll stir up “the measure of faith” that you have received. You won’t have received or achieved more faith, you’ll simply develop the faith you were given at salvation.

Don’t let anyone–fellow believers, the enemy or even your own mind–convince you that you have weak or nonexistent faith. That’s a lie that, if you believe it, will keep you a weak, ineffective Christian. If you have become a new creation in Christ Jesus, then you have “the measure of faith.” Like Jesus, your faith has the ability to move mountains. It simply needs to be exercised. Right now, make the quality decision to read and study the Word. Learn to apply it by watching Spirit-led ministers like Brother Copeland and Gloria Copeland on the Believer’s Voice of Victory broadcast. Attend the Southwest Believers’ Convention or one of this year’s Victory Campaigns. As you begin putting what you’ve learned into practice, your faith will become stirred up. You’ll be amazed at just what the Lord can lead you to do with “the measure of faith” He has already given you!

Sometimes when you pray you may not feel you are getting results. You repeat the same prayer over and over, wondering why you are not receiving an answer. Days may pass, even months or years, and still it seems as though nothing is happening. That’s when it’s important to understand that you are engaged in a war. You are “not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).

Thankfully, you are not defenseless. You must fight with every weapon at your disposal…and you have some great ones. In fact, God provided you with three that guarantee results.

  1. The Name of Jesus

When you pray in the Name of Jesus, you are identifying with the Son of God. It’s as if He is the One praying. Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? But Jesus told His disciples, “You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!” (John 14:13-14). He was giving His followers–that includes you–His authority…and that’s a lot! “Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth'” (Matthew 28:18). Jesus is the Son of the Almighty, omnipotent, omnipresent God, and He has given authority to you.

  1. The Word of God

The Bible is God’s final word. It contains His promises as well as insight into His character. You can stand and rely on it. As you pray, find promises from God’s Word. Speak them out. Pray them. Trust that they are truer than how you feel or what people around you say. You can trust that God will be faithful to uphold His Word because He wrote in it: “Every word of God proves true” (Proverbs 30:5). Consequently, if you are His child, He will remain true to you, too.

  1. Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is your comforter, and He is also your helper. When you pray in the spirit, or in tongues, the Holy Spirit helps you pray as you are supposed to pray (Romans 8:26). He understands that there is a war raging around you, and He helps you fight that battle even though you can’t see it with your human eyes. 

Second Corinthians 10:4 reminds you that you have “God’s mighty weapons” at your disposal. As you continue to pray for your breakthrough, rest knowing that God has given you powerful weapons to overcome every scheme of the enemy that tries to keep you down. Don’t give up. Remain faithful in your prayers, knowing that you are in a battle Jesus has already won!

Foundation Scriptures:

  • “Thus I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name.” -Psalm 63:4  (NKJV)
  • “Enter…into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” -Psalm 100:4  (NKJV) 
  • “Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord.” -Psalm 134:2 (NKJV)
  • “Let my prayer be set before You as incense, the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.” -Psalm 141:2 (NKJV)
  • “I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.” -1 Timothy 2:8 (NKJV)

Are you looking for a deeper understanding of praise and worship? Do you want to know more about the seven different types of praise and worship that the Lord gives us in His Word? If so, here is a simple study that will take you through the seven different kinds of worship according to Scripture.

1. Barak (baw-rak’)-to bow down to, or kneel before, the Lord

Read Psalm 72:12-15.

How is faith reflected in this passage? 

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Has the author experienced deliverance yet, or is it still to come? 

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Can you claim this as a promise from the Lord for yourself? Why?

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How does this apply to you? 

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Read Psalm 103.

What is the overall feeling or emotion that David communicates through this psalm?

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What does David expect from the Lord? 

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How does David exhibit faith in this psalm? 

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What promises does this passage include? 

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How do the lessons in this passage apply to you?

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2. Halal (haw-lal’)-to shine, boast, rave about, celebrate or even to be clamorously foolish

Read 1 Chronicles 16:4. 

Why do you believe David sent the Levites to practice halal before the Ark of the Lord?

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How do you think this affected the Israelites? 

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If you were to practice halal, how do you suppose it would affect you?

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Read 1 Chronicles 23:5.

What was the point of David appointing 4,000 Levites to praise the Lord?

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How can this influence the way you worship the Lord?

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3. Shabach (shaw-bakh’)-to shout loudly or command

Read Psalm 63:1-4. 

Describe the attitude of David as he penned this psalm. Was he confident or contrite? Forceful or timid? Explain.

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Describe David’s relationship with the Lord? Did he feel close to the Lord or was the Lord a distant observer in his life? 

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4. Tehillah (teh-hil-law’)-to sing unrehearsed, unplanned praises

Read Psalm 34:1.

What does it mean to “praise the Lord at all times”?

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How can you implement this in your own life? 

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Read Psalm 40:3.

What “new song” has the Lord given you?

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5. Towdah (to-daw’)-to extend or raise your hands in thanksgiving for something that hasn’t yet occurred or that you haven’t yet received

Read Psalm 50:23. 

How would you describe a “sacrifice of praise”? 

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Why would giving thanks be considered a sacrifice?

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Read Jeremiah 17:26.

What kind of worship sacrifice can you give?

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Why is giving so important? 

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How are giving and worship connected?

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6. Yadah (yaw-daw’)-to extend your hands vigorously as in complete surrender

Read 2 Chronicles 20:21. 

Why is surrender so important in worship?

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Read Psalm 9:1.

What does this scripture teach you about worship and telling others about God’s goodness? 

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How does sharing your testimony affect the Body of Christ?

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7. Zamar (zaw-mar’)-to touch the strings, mostly rejoicing

Read Psalm 150.

According to this psalm, where should the Lord be praised?

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Read Psalm 92:1-3.

When is a good time to praise the Lord for His unfailing love? For His faithfulness?

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What is the Holy Spirit speaking to you about praise and worship through this study? 

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How can you strengthen or deepen your praise and worship time with the Lord?

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God bless you as you begin to live out the revelation you received through this study on the seven types of praise and worship!

Do you ever wonder what God desires for your life? Do you want to know His perfect will for you? Do you want to know Him better so you can face your life and situations with confidence? Well, here are six truths that God wants you to know about Him and the way He operates on earth.

  1. God reveals His will through His Word. Romans 12:2, KJV, says, “Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” As you study and put God’s Word into practice, you will come to understand God’s will for your life.
  2. Jesus and God’s Word are one. John 1:1, 14, KJV, says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and The Word was God…. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.” As you learn to make Jesus and His Word Lord over your life, you will be successful.
  3. God’s perfect will is for all people to be saved and to come into the knowledge of the truth. In 1 Timothy 2:3-4, Peter explains that God doesn’t want anyone to be separated from Him. Thankfully, through Jesus’ death and resurrection, He’s provided an antidote to that separation.
  4. The Bible is God’s written testimony of what He has already prepared for His children. The Word is God’s way of teaching His family how to operate in His thoughts and His ways, so they can enjoy all that the lordship of Jesus offers.
  5. The Bible is more than a history book; it is God speaking to you now. God’s Word is alive. It is the living voice from heaven. You can fearlessly act on the written Word of God, just as you would if Jesus called your name and spoke with you personally (Hebrews 4:12)!
  6. Faith is acting on the Word of God. The Father wants you to live out His Word because it brings freedom. Jesus said, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). “Thy Word is truth” (John 17:17, KJV).

God desires for you to know Him. He wants a relationship with you through His Son, Jesus Christ. To achieve that, He provided salvation and His written Word. Begin to think about these truths that God desires for every believer to know. As you do, His will for your life will become crystal clear. You won’t be confused about what God desires for you and your future. You’ll be confident in what His Word has told you!

Who is the Holy Spirit, and why is He important? If you’re a new Christian or new to the Spirit-filled life, these may be questions you’ve asked. You may have come from a religious upbringing that avoided talking about the Holy Spirit, or you may be a new Christian who has never known He exists. But the Holy Spirit is important for you to live a successful Christian life. After Jesus’ death and resurrection, God sent the Holy Spirit to earth to dwell in you and every other believer (John 14:15-17), and His job is to…

  • Help You

“And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.” -Romans 8:26

Even when you don’t know what to pray for or how to handle situations, the Holy Spirit does. He is the One who helps you beyond what you are capable of on your own.

  • Teach You

“When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own but will tell you what He has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever He receives from me. All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, ‘The Spirit will tell you whatever He receives from me.'” -John 16:13-15

The Holy Spirit teaches you about the things of God. He illuminates Scripture and brings deeper understanding of spiritual things.

  • Reveal Truth to You

“But you have received the Holy Spirit, and He lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what He teaches is true–it is not a lie. So just as He has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ.” -1 John 2:27

The Holy Spirit protects you from being led astray from Jesus’ teaching.

  • Empower You

“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.” -Ephesians 3:16

The Holy Spirit strengthens you to handle whatever situations come your way. 

Right now, begin thanking God for sending you the Holy Spirit. Invite the Holy Spirit to be active in your life, and thank Him for helping you, teaching you, revealing truth to you, and empowering you. If you need to learn more about the ministry of the Holy Spirit, check out this article by Kenneth Copeland–The Holy Spirit: God’s Muscle in You. Let this be a pivotal time of understanding the Holy Spirit–who He is and what He does–so you can enjoy His ministry more deeply!

The study of God’s love is powerful because it has the ability to transform your life.  When you truly understand the depth of God’s love, it heals, empowers and calms. It changes the way you not only interact with the Lord but also with every person you meet. Enjoy this simple study on the love of God, and let it be a starting point for a deeper, more personal study.

Read 1 John 3:1:

  • In 1 John 3:1, how does God refer to you?
  • Why don’t those who belong to the world recognize God’s children?
  • Should God’s children look or act differently than those in the world. Why or why not?

Read Romans 5:3-8:

  • How should we respond to difficulties? Why?
  • What is one way that we know God loves us?
  • Did Jesus die for us when we deserved it? What was significant about the timing of Jesus’ death? What does this tell us about God’s love?

Read 1 John 4:8:

  • How does this verse describe God?

Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8:

  • How does this passage describe love?
  • What does this tell us about God’s nature?
  • Think about your perception of God. Does it line up with this passage? If not, how does your perception differ?
  • Does your perception need to change? If so, how?

Read Deuteronomy 28:

  • Are love and obedience connected? Why or why not?
  • What are the promises of God for those who obey His commandments?
  • Are these promises available without love? Why or why not?

Read Exodus 15:26:

  • Is the love of God exhibited in this passage? If so, how?
  • How does the promise contained in this verse affect us today?

Read Deuteronomy 7:6-14:

  • Does this passage affect us today? Why or why not?  (Cross-reference with Romans 9:24-29.)
  • How is love reflected in this passage?
  • What can we learn about God’s nature?
  • How does He deal with His people?
  • How are love and obedience connected?
  • What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you about God’s love through this study?

We hope this study is the beginning of a deeper understanding and appreciation for just how loved you are. If you are struggling with receiving God’s love, ask Him for a deeper revelation of His love for you. He promises to answer those who seek Him with their whole heart. God bless you!

No matter how difficult your marriage may be right now, God can turn it around! Maybe financial troubles have taken their toll. Maybe moral boundaries have been crossed. Maybe poor communication has left you feeling abandoned. Whatever the reason and no matter how difficult, your marriage can be saved. Begin putting the faith principles of trusting God and His Word to work. As you do, remember these four truths about faith as they apply to your marriage.

Faith Truth No. 1: Nothing Intimidates God 
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NLT). It’s just as easy for God to heal your marriage as it is for Him to heal a headache. Don’t give in to a feeling of hopelessness concerning your marriage. Remember that nothing is too big for your heavenly Father, and He will show you what to do.

Faith Truth No. 2: The Word of God Is True
“Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection” (Proverbs 30:5, NLT). You can trust God’s Word, whether natural circumstances seem to agree or not. Begin to stand on that Word by finding promises in the Word for your marriage and then meditating on those scriptures day and night.

Faith Truth No. 3: Build Your Faith by Reading and Studying the Word of God
“Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17, KJV). If you want faith to stand for your marriage, then begin studying, reading and confessing what the Bible says. Don’t rely on what others tell you. Get into the Word for yourself, and take a stand for your marriage.

Faith Truth No. 4: You Have the Faith You Need to Stand for Your Marriage
“…God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith” (Romans 12:3, KJV). Since that scripture was written to born-again people, you can be assured that if you’ve made Jesus the Lord of your life, you have the faith in you to stand for whatever you need, including your marriage. Whatever your situation may be, you can take a stand in faith.

Your marriage is not beyond help. Remember these four faith truths as you begin standing for your marriage. And if you need someone to agree with you in prayer, call one of our KCM Prayer Ministers at 1-817-852-6000 or visit kcm.org/prayer. We’re here to agree with you in prayer as you stand for the healing of your marriage!

People sometimes question what it means to be a faith person, to live a faith-filled life. Some refer to faith people as that “name it and claim it” bunch. They assume that we try to pass off wishful thinking as some form of Christian practice. Others assume that being a faith person means simply that we believe in Jesus, that somehow living a faith-filled life is another name for being a Christian. That would be nice, but living a faith-filled life means so much more. It means approaching life in a specific way. Here are five principles of the faith-filled life:

1. The Faith-Filled Life Focuses on the Word

If you want to live a life of faith, then you must focus on the Word of God. The Bible isn’t simply a sweet storybook or a list of do’s and don’ts; it is a manual for life. The faith person believes what Hebrews 4:12 says: “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” Therefore, the faith person makes time to study and meditate on God’ Word regularly.

Watch this video from Kenneth Copeland about how to stand firm in your faith on the Word of God.

2. The Faith-Filled Life Rises Above the Senses

A person of faith experiences situations and circumstances that scream something contrary to the Word; however, the person of faith trusts that God’s Word is the ultimate authority. So, when symptoms arise, a person of faith says, “He was beaten so I could be whole, therefore, I trust that by the stripes of Jesus, I am healed” (see Isaiah 53:5b). This same approach is used for every situation–healing/sickness, prosperity/lack, peace/depression, joy/brokenheartedness. No matter what is happening in his or her life, the faith person ultimately trusts the Word.

3. The Faith-Filled Life Measures Everything by the Word

Conventional wisdom may say that things like truth is relative, marriage is obsolete, putting yourself first is paramount, and honor and virtue are outdated; but the person of faith knows better. The faith person lives according to God’s truth. He doesn’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but lets God transform him into a new person by changing the way he thinks. Then he will learn to know God’s will for him, which is good and pleasing and perfect (Romans 12:2).

4. The Faith-Filled Life Takes Action

Living a life of faith requires more than lip service. It takes action. That means the person of faith listens to the Holy Spirit and obeys what He instructs him to do. So, if the Holy Spirit directs him to minister to someone in a specific way, the faith person does it. If the Lord impresses on him to give of his time, money or resources, then he obeys without hesitation (James 1:25).

5. The Faith-Filled Life Understands Covenant

Many Christians focus on who they were before their salvation. The faith-filled person focuses on who he is as a result of his salvation. He understands the work that Jesus did in his life and lives thankfully because of it. The person of faith doesn’t see himself as a lost sinner who’s barely scraping through the doorway of heaven. No, he understands that because of Jesus’ sacrifice, he is a new creation in Christ Jesus–in His image and in right-standing with the Father (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 5:17).
 

How about you–are you living a faith-filled life? We’d love to hear from you. Share what principles of faith guide your relationship with the Lord and the way you live your life, at Let the Lord use you to encourage other believers in their faith walk, so that together, we can be an effective Body for His use!

Have you heard the good news? Healing is for today! A lot of well-meaning Christians struggle to believe that God wants to heal them. They even go so far as to believe illness is part of God’s plan for their lives. It’s a lie that the enemy happily perpetuates through the Body of Christ. The Bible tells us that Jesus came to bring healing and deliverance to God’s people. But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

The work and sacrifice of Jesus paid the price for our healing. To better understand this powerful work, here are four miraculous healings that Jesus performed during His earthly ministry.

Healing No. 1: Jesus Healed the Leper

Read Mark 1:40-44.
1.  What led to the man’s healing from leprosy? What did this man do or believe?

2.  How did this man exhibit faith?

3.  What did Jesus tell the man to do following his healing?

4.  How was healing and giving connected?

5.  What is the Holy Spirit speaking to you about this passage?

Healing No. 2: Jesus Healed the Paraplegic

Read Mark 2:2b-12.
1.  Is it any more difficult for Jesus to heal than to forgive?

2.  Whose faith moved Jesus to forgive this man’s sins? What actions did they take to act on this faith?

3.  How did the man’s healing affect those around him?

4.  What is the Holy Spirit speaking to you about this passage?

Healing No. 3: Jesus Healed the Woman With the Issue of Blood

Read Mark 5:25-34.
1.  Why are illness and poverty so often connected? See John 10:10.

2.  How did this woman take her healing?

3.  Crowds pressed into Jesus on all sides, yet He felt this woman’s touch. What made her touch different?

4.  What part did faith play in this woman’s healing?

5.  What is the Holy Spirit speaking to you about this passage?

Healing No. 4: Jesus Healed the Deaf Man

Read Mark 7:31-35.
1.  How did faith play a part in this man’s healing?

2.  Why do you believe Jesus took the man away from the crowd?

3.  Can well-meaning friends adversely affect healing from taking place? Why or why not?

4.  What is the Holy Spirit speaking to you about this passage?

These are merely a sampling of the miracles of Jesus. Let them inspire you. Take time to read, reread and meditate on these passages. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal deeper revelation about them to you. And if you are standing in faith for your healing, be sure to order Healing & Wellness: Your 10-Day Spiritual Action Plan. You may also call KCM’s Prayer Line at +1-817-852-6000. Prayer ministers are standing by to pray with you and encourage you in the Word!

In Joel 2:28, God promised, “I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions.” Dreams and visions are two ways God speaks to His children. Throughout Scripture, God uses them to free the downtrodden, liberate nations and turn hearts back to Him.

Dreams and Visions in the Bible

The word dream appears 87 times in the Old Testament and eight times in the New Testament. Similarly, the word vision appears 86 times in the Old Testament and 17 in the New Testament. While the notion of divine dreams and visions may seem unusual to us, it’s not unusual to God. Just look at how He spoke through dreams and visions to many leaders and prophets under the Old Covenant:

  • Abraham -Genesis 15
  • Jacob -Genesis 46
  • Samuel -1 Samuel 3
  • Nathan -2 Samuel 7
  • Ezekiel -Ezekiel 1, 8, 11, 37 and 43
  • Daniel -Daniel 7.

Then, under the New Covenant, God spoke through dreams and visions to:

  • Peter, James and John -Matthew 17
  • Stephen -Acts 7
  • Paul – Acts 9; Galatians 1; 2 Corinthians 12.

While these are not exhaustive lists, they do convey the truth that dreams and visions were not unusual or unlikely in Bible times, and the same is true today. God continues to speak to His people in this fashion. For Spirit-led believers, these prophetic moments can be opportunities to redirect, refocus and reconnect to the plans and purposes of their heavenly Father.

When Is a Dream or Vision From the Lord?

Of course, not every dream and vision is from the Lord. The enemy, whose purpose is to destroy and cause havoc, will try to lead you astray with false revelations. The Bible warns us that the enemy “disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). He’ll use dreams and visions to sow seeds of doubt, discouragement and ungodly direction for the unsuspecting believer. First John 4:1, KJV, says, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.” And while this passage is speaking specifically about false prophets, the message is the same–test the truth.

  1. Test Dreams and Visions Against the Word

If a dream or vision tries to convince you of something contrary to the Word of God, it is not from the Lord. He will never contradict His Word. First Peter 1:25 promises that “the word of the Lord endureth for ever” (KJV). It will never change or become irrelevant. Therefore, we can hold it up as the absolute truth by which we judge our dreams and visions. Second Timothy 3:16 states that “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (KJV). If what we dream or envision contradicts the Word, it is false and not to be trusted.

  1. Test Dreams and Visions in Prayer

If a dream or vision comes from the Lord, it only stands to reason that He is the best person to confirm it. “Ask me and I will tell you remarkable secrets you do not know about things to come” (Jeremiah 33:3). How do we go about doing this? We pray in the Name of Jesus and ask the Holy Spirit to confirm what we believe the dream or vision is saying.

Praying in the Name of Jesus is key because demons cannot operate or gain control in Jesus’ presence (1 Corinthians 12:3). As born-again children of God, we operate in the same authority as Jesus (Matthew 28:18-20). He is our covering. Just look at Luke 10:17, “When the seventy-two disciples returned, they joyfully reported to him, ‘Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name!'” We can be sure that if a dream or vision is from some other source, we can resist and drive it away with the Name of Jesus.

  1. Test Dreams and Visions with Spiritual Counselors

Dreams and visions often confirm what the Spirit of God has already been speaking to the Body of Christ. That’s why it’s good to share our dreams and visions with trusted, Spirit-led believers and ask them to join with us in prayer about them. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.” Together, we’ll be able to stand in faith for the interpretation and application of our dreams and visions.

In these last days, dreams and visions will become more and more common. It is part of our spiritual inheritance as Spirit-led believers. So let us welcome God-ordained dreams and visions, and let the Holy Spirit direct us in blessing the Body of Christ and leading the lost to Him through them. 

You’ve heard people say that the words you speak are important. You may even agree that it’s beneficial to your mental health to focus on the positive side of life instead of the negative. But what does God’s Word say about your words? Does the Bible instruct you to watch the words you speak closely? Here are seven scriptures that answer that question:

  • “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” -Proverbs 18:21
  • “Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.”  -Proverbs 21:23
  • “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” -Ephesians 4:29
  • “Kind words are like honey–sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” -Proverbs 16:24
  • “And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.” -Matthew 12:36-37
  • “Whatever is in your heart determines what you say.” -Matthew 12:34
  • “I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart.” -Mark 11:23

Yes, the words you speak are important. Begin meditating on these verses and ask the Holy Spirit to direct you in how to apply their lessons to your life. Your future, success and happiness depend on it!

Often believers ask how they can stand strong in the midst of uncertainty, including danger. Psalm 91:1, KJV, explains exactly how to do that when it says, “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” But that scripture begs the question: What does “abide” mean?

This is important because supernatural security and peace in the midst of trouble depend on it. The word abide means “to dwell in.” That sounds easy enough, but what exactly does it mean? How can you “abide in God’s Word”?

  1. Abiding in God’s Word Is Permanent

The act of abiding in God’s Word is permanent. For example, when you stay at a hotel, you are not abiding there. You are not living there permanently. It’s just a temporary situation. Your home is where you abide. It is the place where you live and find rest.

  1. Abiding in God’s Word Is Complete

Jesus talked about abiding in John 15:10 when He said, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love” (KJV). In other words, to abide is to be consistently obedient to the Word of God. Many people think they can live any old way and then, when they run into trouble, just holler, “Jesus, help me!” and everything will be fine. But that’s not what the Word says. In fact, Proverbs 1:24-26, AMP, warns that those who don’t listen to and obey the Word of God in good times may find themselves stranded when the hard times come.

  1. Abiding in God’s Word Is a Lifestyle

If you want to experience peace and protection when trouble comes, then you must make the act of abiding in God’s Word a lifestyle. It is not a once in a while thing. It is not something you do when the pressure is on. It’s not something you put on and take off like a piece of clothing. When you abide in God’s Word, you live immersed in it.

Psalm 91:2-4, (NIV), says, “I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge.”

Trust God and His Word for your protection. Learn what it means to abide in God’s Word for yourself, and then make the decision to make “abiding” a lifestyle. It is the only way to live with certainty and peace, regardless of what the world throws your way. 

There is freedom in forgiveness, and you want that freedom for your child. But where do you start? How can you teach them to let go of the pain and embrace the freedom of forgiveness? Here are three points to help you do just that:

1.God Reached Out to Us First

“When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” -Romans 5:6-8

God began the process of reconciliation first. We didn’t even know we needed forgiveness; that’s how lost we were in our sin. In the same way, we are called to forgive whether the person asks for it or not.

2.God Looks Past the Ugly

“He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.” -Psalm 103:10-12

Remember, God is perfect. There is no sin in Him–not even one. Not an evil thought. Not a careless comment. Not a bad habit. So when He forgave us, He looked past all of that and more. When He instructs us to forgive, He is asking us to follow His example by looking past the ugly.

3.God Requires Forgiveness

“I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours.  But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.” -Mark 11:24-25

Forgiveness brings blessing. It allows you to remain in the flow of God’s love, and it is a requirement for having a relationship with Him.

Forgiveness isn’t easy, but it is necessary. By teaching the importance of it to your child, you are putting him or her on a path to a richer and more fulfilling life without the controlling effects of offense and bitterness. Don’t wait; begin teaching your child these principles today!

Have you made a HUGE mistake? Have you fallen into sin or experienced a broken relationship with a loved one? Have you made choices in your life that lead you question whether God could ever love you again? These are big questions but there’s good news: God always has a plan. Situations don’t catch Him by surprise. He never looks at your life and says, “Hmm…wonder what I should do now?” No, He knows when you’ve made mistakes. And if you’ll let Him, He’ll help you navigate through them.

Remember, God knew you, loved you and chose you to be one of His children “before the foundation of the world” (Romans 8:29; Ephesians 1:4, KJV). He designed a plan and a destiny for you that included good things.

Ephesians 2:10, AMPC, confirms this. It says: “We are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].”

So when you make a HUGE mistake–cheat on your spouse, do something illegal, become pregnant outside of marriage, fall into addiction, take the wrong job or some other equally life-changing decision–God is still with you. Yes, there will be consequences–quite possibly hard consequences–but if you will repent, trust the Lord and obey Him, He will help you. 

You can see God’s redemptive plans by looking at Adam and Eve. God provided a beautiful, perfect place for them but they sinned and messed up. They disobeyed God and allowed the devil to steal God’s blessing not only from them but from all mankind. Talk about a HUGE mistake!

But even then, God had a plan. Their betrayal didn’t surprise Him; He’d already prepared for it. He had made a way for Jesus “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world” (Revelation 13:8, KJV), to pay the price for their sin. In fact, Jesus paid the price for all sin–even yours.

It took time and there were consequences, but God’s way prevailed, and His way will prevail in your life, too.

Throughout the Bible, God’s redemptive, problem-solving nature is at work. Psalm 145:9 puts it this way: “His tender mercies are over all His works” (NKJV).

No matter what HUGE mistake you’ve made, how much you believe you’ve blown it, or how far you seem to have fallen from God’s grace, His forgiveness and help are only a prayer away. Right now, ask for His forgiveness. And if you need someone to agree in prayer with you, call +1-817-852-6000 to speak to one of our prayer ministers or visit our listing of Partner churches to find a local church that can help and stand with you. You are not alone!

Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior? If so, you have become a new creation. Second Corinthians 5:17 says, “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” Part of that new life affords you certain rights, rights that belong to you because you are “in Christ.”

The Bible mentions being “in Christ,” “in Him” or “in whom” 134 times. And while we don’t have time in this article to cover every blessing afforded you as a believer, let’s take a few moments to study Ephesians 1, so we can better understand what it means to be “in Christ.”

Read Ephesians 1 (KJV).

  1. Verse 4 states that every believer, including you, was chosen “before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.” What do you think it means to be “holy and without blame”?
     
  2. How does that affect you personally? In your own words, describe what it means for you to be “holy and without blame.”
     
  3. Is there something in your past, some sin or failure, that has held you back from accepting God’s forgiveness, something for which you have been unable to forgive yourself? How does this verse change how you view that sin or failure today?
     
  4. Verses 7-9 say, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself.” What do these verses say that Jesus’ blood provided for you?
     
  5. What part do you play in receiving these gifts? Can you do anything to deserve or earn them?

Now look at verses 15-23:
“Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.”

  1. The Apostle Paul writes that he is praying that the Ephesians, and every believer, receive “the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling.” Does this mean that Jesus is only interested in having brought salvation to you, or does God want to impact every area of your life?
     
  2. What does Paul want your eyes, as a believer, to be enlightened about, regarding Jesus? (verse 18)
     
  3. To whom is Jesus’ exceedingly great power directed? (verse 19)
     
  4. What position does Jesus hold? Is there anything stronger, bigger or more influential than He is? (verses 20-23)
     
  5. Verse 21 states that Jesus is above every name, including every name in this world. How does this work with what we learn about Jesus in Isaiah 53:4-5? What are the names of this world that Jesus is above? Grief? Sorrow? Iniquity? Disease? Strife?
     
  6. Is there any issue in your life that seems too big for Jesus? If so, ask the Holy Spirit to show you Jesus’ perspective on that issue.           

As a child of God, you have certain rights, certain benefits that belong to you–redemption, holiness, wisdom, healing, peace, righteousness, provision and more. Let this study be the beginning of an exploration into what it means to be “in Christ.” And if you haven’t yet, be sure to read the article, “How to Find Yourself in Christ.” Jesus has so much He wants to reveal to you and so much He has provided for you. Don’t miss an ounce of what your Lord and Savior has to offer you!

What would your life be like if the favor of God surrounded you each and every day? Would you experience more grace? More happiness? More success? Would the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) be more evident in your life? If you want to experience more of the favor of God, then embrace these five truths:

Truth #1: God’s Favor is God’s grace.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” -Ephesians 2:8, NKJV

God’s favor, aka God’s grace, is the reason you are saved. You are saved by His favor.

Truth #2: God’s favor affects every area of life.

 “So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus.” -Ephesians 2:7

God’s favor has taken care of everything you will ever need–spirit, soul and body. Every part of your life is impacted by the grace and favor of God. This doesn’t just mean you are going to heaven. It means you are delivered, protected, preserved, healed and made whole.

Truth #3: God began showing you His favor even before you were born again.

“But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” -Romans 5:8

Salvation is the greatest expression of God’s favor, and it was made available to you even when you were still lost. Being born again was just the starting place for His favor to pour out. And He will pour out grace and more favor to you every moment of your life if you’ll receive it!

Truth #4: God’s favor surrounds you continually.

 “For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield.” –Psalm 5:12, NKJV

As a born-again child of God, you have been made righteous by Jesus and that righteousness came with the favor of God, which surrounds you constantly!

Truth #5: You must realize and accept God’s favor to experience it fully.

“May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.” -2 Peter 1:2-3

Before you can receive the benefits of God’s favor, you must know that they are yours. Just as with every other spiritual benefit, you must receive them by faith.

If you desire to have God’s favor evident in your life, then begin to study and contemplate these truths. Understand that God’s favor–His grace–was available to you even before you were His. And now, since you are a child of God, His favor toward you has grown. It touches every area of your life and surrounds you continually. All you have to do is accept it by faith. The favor of God is yours–now and forever.

If you would like to learn more about God’s favor–what it is and how to receive it, read Gloria Copeland’s article, “God’s Favor Will Change Your Life.” Don’t miss out on the truth and richness that God’s favor can bring to your life!

by Gloria Copeland

I’m amazed at how often people claim to have discovered the “fountain of youth.” Month after month, year after year, magazine covers and book jackets tout the latest and greatest longevity secrets. Scientists come up with genetic keys, and nutritionists proclaim the one…or two…or seven foods that guarantee long, healthy lives to those who eat them. Fitness experts invent exercise plans and equipment that promise to keep us young, slim and agile at any age.

Although good nutrition and exercise really do help, no one has yet come up with a guaranteed life-lengthening, youth-renewing plan that provides people in their 80s, 90s, hundreds and beyond the strength and vitality of people half their age.

No one, that is, except Moses.

His secret for long, strong life, echoed throughout the Bible, is the only one that really works. He proved it beyond any doubt by staying youthful to the ripe old age of 120. Moses practiced what he preached. Despite his rugged life in the wilderness and his potentially high-stress job of leading a million-plus cantankerous, unbelieving people to the Promised Land, he tapped in to a fountain of youth that kept him young year after year, decade after decade. He found a source of life-renewing power that kept him sharp-eyed and physically strong 20 years beyond the century mark.

What was Moses’ secret? What was the force that kept him going so strong for so long?

The living Word of Almighty God.

Just before he sent the Israelites into the Promised Land, Moses called them together and said: “Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do, all the words of this law. For it is not a vain thing for you; because it is your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong your days in the land” (Deuteronomy 32:46-47, KJV, italics added).

The New Living Translation quotes verse 47 this way: “These instructions are not empty words–they are your life! By obeying them you will enjoy a long life….” The key to long life is the Word of God.

Over the years, I’ve experienced renewal during my time in the Word. Not only spiritual and emotional renewal, but physical renewal. Of course, I haven’t just dabbled in the Word. I’ve spent hours getting the Word inside me–studying it, praying it, living it.

Through my experience, I can tell you that God’s Word is as alive and full of power as it ever was. Under the New Testament we live by faith in Jesus because He is the Word. Look at how John 1:1-4, 14 says it:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him [In whom? In the Word!] was life; and the life was the light of men…. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth (KJV).

That passage makes it very clear: Life is in Jesus, and Jesus is the Word made flesh. It is impossible to separate Jesus from God’s Word. He and the Word are one. What’s more, Hebrews 4:12 tells us that the Word affects us as born-again believers in a real and dynamic way. It is life to us:

  • The word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (NKJV).
  • The Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart (AMPC).
  • The word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are.

It’s not surprising that I can sometimes sense the Word affecting my physical body because, according to that verse, the Word impacts more than our souls and spirits. It penetrates all through our cells and organs to the innermost part of our bones. It reaches all the way to our marrow–a place where our blood is made!

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