The enemy knows how to play games; and create distractions. As Believers we must be on guard; on watch for what they are and how to remove them. Distractions steal much from you and if you are not aware; your life will slip away-one day or conversation at a time. I had no clue how many distractions were an interruption from my life. You see; they became part of my life. How many distractions are such a part of your life that you aren’t even aware of? It’s time for them to go! Try the following to bring forth fruit in your life:
1- Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what distractions you have in your life. What you may see as normal the Holy Spirit can identify as a distraction. When I asked the Holy Spirit to reveal distractions there were a few that came to mind that I had allowed to just be part of my life. For example; social media notifications. I didn’t realize the ownership my phone had of me. When it was revealed not only was it the notification from my phone; but also then how much more time I was giving to review the notifications; in addition to how it impacted how I felt. As a result the enemy stole time, energy, peace and my focus from what I was doing. Sneaky some may say. That is just one example. You probably will have your own personal list for certain. Studies show that people who have notifications on their phone operate with higher levels of anxiety. Why? Because there are times when they can’t take care of whatever the notification is so they think on it until they can. And it may be for hours. Do you honestly have hours to give to thinking about something you can’t do anything about at that very moment? Surely not! Don’t be deceived.
2- Pray offensively. Once the distractions were revealed my prayer life changed. I prayed that the distractions were removed, that the enemy assignments were cancelled, that focus on the Lord would reign supreme. I prayed for my mind, my time, my relationships, my focus, my productivity all be protected. I prayed that only the people He wanted to cross my path would; and that I would be used to be a blessing to them. I prayed for an increase in discernment and wisdom to spot distractions and how to properly respond. I prayed for peace on every side with no enemy penetration; of course in Jesus name. No longer was I going to be a tool used by the enemy for building His Kingdom. No more- and it should be that way for you too! Remember you have the power and authority in Jesus name to remove all distractions; and mountains. You do not have to just ‘accept’ it- no no.
3- Remain diligent and disciplined. When the enemy knows you are onto his tactics; he changes them. That’s fine just wear him out. Should you press in long enough you will get to that point where he flees from you- not you running chasing your tail in frustration while he sits back and laughs. It requires diligence and self- awareness; which is what most people are lacking. Start paying attention! When you begin to see it you will be able to do something about it. Whatever is in the way of your going forward for the Lord is a distraction and you must remain diligent and disciplined; that is your responsibility. Either you can be diligent for the Lord or the enemy; but typically not both at the same time.
One thing I did that helped me was this: I wrote down (because I write) scripture that pertained to where I was in that season. I took a picture of it with my phone and then saved it as my screen saver. This way every time my phone rang and I looked at it- scripture was right there. Yeah take that enemy. Get creative and start seeing and speaking life over you- shut the door to his access. Get disciplined and start with getting it in your mind!
Walking with Jesus is a choice; it’s a lifestyle and I will tell you as I was told- it will be the hardest thing you ever do. The enemy has a plan for your life and it is to completely destroy it and you at all cost. The best news is that you have the power- you do- to stop him!
Start today and see the life change. My life changed when so much was removed. I needed less; and more of Him. When you get there your life, outlook, operations; and expectations will be what they should be in accordance with you being the head and not the tail. To God be the glory!
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While many talk about peace during this time of year; it is possible to live in peace every day of the year regardless of season, holiday or current events. It is a matter of purposing to do so.
When I became a Christian I had no idea what to expect; none. I didn’t really even know what it meant to be a Christian I just wanted something more than what I had- which wasn’t much. And so I became a Christian yet much in my life didn’t change. I did go to church every week yet for 18 years still had no peace. I Still didn’t the victory that I thought would come by default for being a Christian. I see many falling into that same trap. There is no peace and for many no wonder why.
If you are a Christian living by default to a world system there is no peace. If you are a Christian living by default in a church system; there probably isn’t much peace there either. Peace will only come through Jesus Christ; not through any man made system of any kind. It can’t. John 14:27 tells us, ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.’
Getting, keeping and living in peace will require action. Action to get it, action to keep it and action to live in it. Society will do everything it can to take it, keep it; and prevent you from living in it. The world system is quite contrary to the Word of God and nothing of it produces fruit; only busyness. And busy friends is simply ‘bound under satans yoke’.
Take an inventory of your life today. Examine carefully what level of peace you truly have and make the necessary changes with the Lord to live in that level of peace He desires for you. Inventory your life. Examine the following in your life:
1- Clutter. Do you own your stuff or does it own you? How much is it robbing you of living because it’s always surrounding you; reminding you of the past, more chores; or whatever else. How much of your thoughts is the clutter stealing? Ask the Lord to reveal to you what items you need to give, what He may have you sell; and what items you have that need to be prayed over. You may have some items that you did not annoint that are bringing no peace and you need God to reveal those items to you. You must purpose to be on the offense in keeping your peace and not allowing any attachments of stuff steal it from you.
2- Your relationships. What we allow in from other people will have an impact. Are you allowing in trauma and drama? Are you creating ungodly soul ties or godly ones? Is gossip entering into your life? What boundaries do you have in place that you live by that bring peace? Remember if you aren’t setting boundaries then anything can enter and that means the enemy has legal right. Close the door to unhealthy relationships that aren’t producing fruit. Pray the following in Jesus name: “Father in the name of Jesus I ask that You distance me from the people in my life that I need distance from. I ask that You bring the relationships in my life that I need for this season. I ask that You increase my discernment and sensitivity to Your Holy Spirit during this time. I pray that as people are moved out of my life that they are blessed in the name of Jesus and I thank you for the peace that comes with this. I pray all this in Jesus name. Amen.” What you want to pay attention to is when people are transitioned in and out of your life that you thank the Lord for answering your prayer. You may be tempted to freak out over a period when it appears no one is in your life; although it’s the Lord answering your prayer and bringing the peace that you ultimately are seeking. It’s a blessing!
3- Your Order. God is a God of order. The enemy is all about chaos and disruption. When your life is out of order it’s because something internally is out of order. Ask the Lord to reveal to you where you are out of order and He will. Perhaps your sleeping patterns are out of order which is causing you to spend less time with Him. He is of order and when you are in order your level of peace will increase along with your sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Ask in Jesus name, ‘Father in Jesus name please forgive me for the areas of my life that are out of order. I ask that You reveal it to me in a way that I can understand what is out of order and what my steps are to restoring order. I thank You for the peace that will come with order in accordance with Your Word. I pray all this in Jesus name. Amen.’ Remember that disorder cannot bring peace.
4- Your living within in your means. Current society is setup for failure. The world system is corrupt. We don’t need to examine that as one can look around and see it. The question is are you living within your means? The enemy has mastered the art of tempting people to live beyond their means. For many the increase in job title means increase in salary and of course; an upgrade in vehicle, home, and debt. A larger home, more vehicles and bigger wardrobe does not equate to peace. It never will. Ask the Lord to reveal the areas of your life where you are living beyond your means and as He answers what is revealed will forever change you. ‘Father in the name of Jesus please forgive me of all my sins. I come before You asking You to reveal to me the areas of my life that are outside of my means and that it’s in a way I can understand. I ask that You show me how to live within my means and provide a solution that will bring the peace in You that I desire. I thank You for all this in Jesus name. Amen.’ You will find that the excess of shoes, purses, tools; books, ATVs, watercraft; and 7.00 per day coffee isn’t as necessary at all and that you actually have more than you think without everything else.
5- Am I living my purpose? Living the purpose God has for you will bring peace. It brings clarity and will change your life without a doubt. One easy way the enemy ruins people lives is by giving them a false identity. A false identity denies anyone from living the real purpose that God has in store. In Jeremiah 29:11-14 it’s clear, ’11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listento you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you,” declares the Lord…’ If you want peace in your life go before the Lord and ask Him what He created you for. It’s much bigger than you can ever realize. ‘Father in the name of Jesus I ask that You forgive me of my sins. I come before You because I know Your word is true in Jer 29;11 that You have a plan for my life. I ask that You reveal that plan as I come before you and please do so in a way that I can understand. I thank You that You chose me before the foundation of the earth for this plan and I thank You that it will be revealed to me. I ask for an increase in faith to receive it. I ask for an increase in hearing and that all distractions, hindrances, obstacles and lies are removed from me and my path that would prevent me from understanding, knowing and following Your plan. I thank You that You have made it so easy to seek You and I pray all this in Jesus name. Amen.’ There is more involved in getting the full plan and operating in it; although moving in the direction toward it will bring more peace than living the false life given by a false god who is not of peace.
Living in peace with the Lord requires purpose. It does not and will not happen by accident. The enemy knows the tactics and how to operate in them and sadly; he does it better than most Believers. If you want the fullness of His peace moving in you, to you and through you; then purpose for it. Purpose to get before Him. Purpose to make peace in Christ your protocol and your personal code of conduct. When you do you will enter into a new way of life and one that can’t be taken away from you.
For more about growth in Christ please visit www.julieblair.com
Dr. Julie prayed at age 5 that Jesus would be her escape and when she was homeless at age 15 by the hands of her adoptive parents she knew God had bigger plans. She now helps others get out of the bondage of the enemy to live free in Christ. Her television and radio programs ‘Living in Forgiveness’ airs around the world to approximately 3 billion daily. You can watch a new episode tonight on the UANetwork at 9:30pm CST. Stream live at www.uanetwork.tv or check your local tv listing.
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Society is changing and in reality has just plain gone mad. Everyone moves at a frantic pace trying to accomplish everything in an instant and most often without thought. Everything is needed 5 minutes ago regardless of what time it is. Understanding the weapon of patience your life will change; and in ways you can’t imagine.
I never was a patient person. Not at all. My nickname was New Yorker because of the pace I moved at; which was contrary to that of those in Denver. I simply believed it was that everyone around me was just high and I was the one moving with purpose. I even found it irritating in NYC all the people who just had to stop and look up; do it somewhere else! Move out of the way. People often believe New Yorkers are rude; no they are just misunderstood is all. And so I was the leader of the impatience pack and either move with more or be moved out of the way. The problem is that it isn’t the manner in which God moves at. Haste makes waster and in reality impatience is just that. When God revealed to me the great weapon of patience my life forever changed.
You see; patience as a weapon gives you much more than you think. It gives time of reflection, steady movement forward, an increased in hearing from the Lord. It gives you a strategy that cannot come otherwise. It is a growth in wisdom. It yields greater results and it changes not only personal interactions; but the results of them. It brings experience that those without the weapon demonstrate they don’t have. It; the weapon of patience is a gamer changer.
People typically are not accustomed to patience. Not in today’s society. There is no time for patience when websites need to be built, the deal must be done; and the ladder must be climbed. Society has attempted to remove what patience people had and the results are proving disastrous. The invasion of text messages for instant results removes the face to face interaction and that; what is needed to be seen is lost. The pace of shoving food down ones throat without even knowing what it is is obviously noticed in the waist size of Americans; which over the last 5 years has grown and has no reason to decline. The stress and strain that impatience is placing upon families is seen in divorce; whether in or out of the church.
The weapon of patience brings an understanding of the world around you. It brings noticeable results that one simple cannot get while rushing to boast of 100 hour workweeks. Much in life is lost when impatience and ‘now’ reign. You see; even the Lord rested. He does everything with purpose yet still stands so patient with every person knowing that as they continually seek Him that patience will endure.
The weapon of patience is built on love for it is written in 1 Corinthians 13: 4 that “Love is patient”. So when you use the weapon of patience you are walking and living in love; which will accomplish more than anything else that you can acquire.
When you grasp the reality that patience is a weapon to be used to your advantage you will see more, achieve more, sell more; and in the end become more. You will find that while people are toiling faster and faster impatiently to their deaths you my dear friend will see the harvest of patience because you will still be standing to see it.
To know Jesus visit www.julieblair.com
To remove the stinking thinking and be transformed in Christ join Julie for Kingdom Thinking and Living Seminar on October 8th. For more visit www.julieblair.com
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Rest is one of the biggest tools to be used if understood properly. It is evidenced in today’s society that this is not the case as working 130 hours and sleeping in a cube while the norm for some; is truly not sustainable for any type of normal or quality of life. The weapon of rest on the other hand; will prove much more sustainable and even to greater lengths; if that rest is found in the Lord. For without Him there is no such thing.
When I understood the weapon of rest my life changed. It changed entirely because my strength in the Lord increased and my vanity decreased. When there is no rest in the Lord there is simply toil and vanity and all is vanity so says King Solomon. And so the question is what really is going on here in today’s society that it is so highly thought of to either work 130 or more hours per week or boast about that? What is the expected outcome other than tiredness and exhaustion; and loss of life. What is the ultimate goal of rising at 4am if not to spend time with the Lord? That too is vanity and chasing after the wind; and in the end what will you have to show for your chasing? What really will you have?
When we examine Genesis 2:3 we see it clearly that God rested for it is written: “And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it; because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. (KJV) Understand that 1) God created everything and everything in everything, 2) God didn’t need to rest because He is God, 3) God created ‘rest’, 4) God does everything on purpose with purpose, 5) God doesn’t make mistakes.
When you understand that rest is one of the greatest weapons and how to rest in Him you won’t fall prey to the so called experts dying to prove something for a world that doesn’t care. You will recognize that a life resting in the Lord will bring more peace, more success; more solitude than any 100 hour work week at any time of the year. You will understand that success really isn’t what you always thought it to be but that in reality you were living in a warped world with a warped sense of accomplishment and identity and as such; you will need and find rest and be better for it.
The world loves to ostracize those who rest or rather those who don’t do what they are doing; comparable to those who write checks or use cash but let it be known that if God rested and created rest there is a reason. If you want to increase your hearing from the Lord simply stop. Rest. Listen.
When there is no rest there is not peace to the full. When there is no rest there is no ability to actually reflect on anything; how could there be because there is no time. The frantic hurried pace of accomplishing must go on! As a result the understanding of time and space in relation to anything is gone and for no reason. Without rest the here and now is simply nonexistent because there isn’t one because it too has passed. Without rest there is no growth; only a quicker death that can’t even be seen or experienced. And that is not a life God would want for anyone; not even you.
The weapon of rest is one of the most important weapons a Believer can have; of course in addition to God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit; angels (not to worship) Bible etc. etc. and it’s when it’s understood how to use the weapon of rest in your own life everything will change. You will change.
The ways of the world are wicked and the days are marked with evil. There is no rest in any of it. The trap of the world is large; ready to catch if you don’t stop to see it. The world must toil because of the earth curse but brothers and sisters you do not have to. You do not have to live a life where you are simply existing to serve the wrong master; the one of death and disaster. You are called for something much higher. And if you do not stop and use the weapon that the Lord has already given you and follow what He did; you won’t have it or anything else to use for it will be too late. And in the end wouldn’t it be a shame to rise at 4am every day for nothing?
For more about growing in the Lord visit www.julieblair.com
Watch ‘Living in Forgiveness’ Monday-Friday at 9:30pm CST on the UANetwork.
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Looking around society there is so much angst and things to be unhappy about. The political climate in America is not a funny joke, the church has lost it’s power; families are splitting at higher rates and the racism and hatred of one to another seems to be increasing at an all time high. Some may ask what is going on and others how to fix it; while still others get mad and angry. As such keeping your joy must be a priority. There are fail-proof ways to keep your joy that are rather simple.
It’s been said that joy simply put is Jesus Others You so by putting this in motion you will keep your joy from season to season without fail.
1. Forgive. Forgiveness is one of the hardest things to genuinely do and not doing it only breeds all things that steal your joy. In Acts 3:19 we are told to ‘repent and seek forgiveness, so that times of refreshing may come.’ (NIV) Within this the identifying factor is what takes place after repenting and forgiving. It’s the refreshing may come. By living in forgiveness not only will you continually be refreshed you will also be operating at a level it keeps the door shut to the ploys of the enemy. Bottom line if you want to keep your joy start forgiving.
2. Take Every Thought Captive. The moment you think on things you need not think on; is the moment that the enemy takes over. It’s something as simple as worry, doubt, dread, or even lustful thoughts that can ruin a moment, a day; a year or even your life. The Word gives us instructions for how to train our minds and in fact we are told to ‘renew our minds’ which is a clue that it obviously can be done. Proverbs 23:7 tells us ‘For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.’ It’s hard to have and keep your joy if you are thinking only on the things that steal it!
3. Tame your Tongue. This one is probably the most challenging; especially when social media is so readily available to share all your opinions that you ultimately may regret later. Psalm 34:13 tells us essentially how to speak in these simple words: “Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit.” (NIV) If only our politicians could grasp this concept! The words you speak will bring either life to death to you and those around you so make sure you take the steps to keep your joy by speaking life.
4. Surround Yourself with the Right People. The people you surround yourself makes all the difference. If you want to get where God wants you to be; then most likely it will require a change. See; it’s hard to go and grow in the Lord when surrounded by people going nowhere. It’s said no more clear than this: “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” (Pro 13:20) If you want joy go with the company that has it and will do anything to keep it!
5. Say Bye to Bitterness. Bitterness is spiritual poison that rots the bones. No wonder why Hannah in the book of 1 Samuel didn’t get pregnant until after she dealt with her bitterness! Her bones were rotting! Bitterness breeds and will only leave you empty; and most likely alone. Let it go and be restored in joy. If you aren’t the bitter one but those around you are; then ask yourself why you accept less than what you are worth and get your joy!
6. Remove Distractions. Life is full of distractions. Sports, television, social media, politics; can all become distractions if you aren’t careful. If you truly look at every minute of your day where are they going. You only have 1440 of them to spend and if they are going to distractions most likely they are sucking your joy right with them. Don’t let the distractions become your priority as your relationship with Christ will suffer as a result. Remove the distractions and take authority of your time and life and you will be amazed to how much you can live.
7. No more Negativity. There is enough to be negative about in life and the moment you accept it; you will feel it. Negativity is known to breed into the mind and hence the emotions. Negative people speak and do negative things. Think about that; how many happy people purposely go do negative things and how many negative people find enjoyment in positive things? When you remove the negative you may be left with a gap so ask the Lord to fill you with joy; overflowing with abundance. Life is too short to follow and accept anything negative as it’s an open door for the enemy to wreck havoc in all the other areas of your life.
In the end; whether or not you have joy is based upon the choices you make. There will always be an opportunity to not be joyful; but only if you allow it. As you become aware of what and who in your life brings what then you will be in a better position to close or open those doors. It’s truly up to you though and it starts with a focus on Jesus Others You.
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How often are you chasing after something and then when you actually get it; it’s not what you thought? Yeah I’ve done that. The degree would get me a better job, that spouse will just make you happy and complete. The new title will just be everything. Hmm mmm. And so the idol chase for the idols becomes a way of life without even realizing it. It’s when you realize that if the race you are running is in vain and you are putting it before Jesus Christ that your life will change; which makes sense since His Word tells us to have no other gods but Him but I digress. Fantasy football anyone?
When you examine your life have you allowed what you think something will bring to your life be what you chase? That idol that you never realized was? Will the new home bring you more? Of course- more space to clean and take care of but will it seriously bring you what you have created it to in your mind? Will you being married bring you what you are expecting? Or will you find that you created the idea so much in your mind when it comes to reality you are disappointed? Probably so. But you see if you remove the idolizing of it when it all comes it will be wonderful; it will be what it needs to be because it will have been placed in its proper place. And that is behind Jesus Christ.
Julie Blair is President of Julie Blair Ministries that helps people mature in Christ. To learn more about going deeper in Christ or to have Julie speak to your church or business visit www.julieblair.com
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It’s time to get ready for bikini season; and most hit the gym. Actually; more people join gyms in March than other month although starting now is a great time. The best way to lose weight is to forgive. After all forgiveness is the greatest weight loss and cheapest face lift.
I didn’t really know just how much extra weight I was carrying with me; all those pounds of resentment, bitterness, anger, and you probably don’t either. If you have back pain or arthritis it has an impact. Brittle bones; yep that’s unforgiveness tied to the bitterness. You see; when unforgiveness is released everything that is tied to it is too. And what does that mean? Weight loss!
What’s fascinating isn’t just the internal clutter tied to forgiveness; but rather the number of people on medications for mental health issues. Did you know that 70% of Americans are some form of medication? (http://www.drugfree.org/join-together/almost-70-percent-of-americans-take-at-least-one-prescription-medication-study-finds) When we examine this fact alone; it tells us that we have a larger issue at hand. You see; when you cover something up with medication you are not actually dealing with the issue at hand- the issue is still there. Your depression will be released! Your joy can be restored and the fog removed. Forgiveness will bring your joy back in the name of Jesus. Not only this; the added weight from the side effects of the medication are just added pounds no one needs. (And no I am not saying drop all your medication- talk to Jesus about that!) Oh- and when you forgive your relationship with Jesus changes which of course is the best part- and that alone is freedom! And if you have ever noticed how free people can jump and run; and skip and smile- look around. You will see it. And that is yours for the taking!
When we get to the root issue and actually look at what it is in full detail then we have something to work with. If the issue is within; which most of the time it is because how can it not be. What is inside is reflected outward. It’s time to get real and get with the One who is the Healer, the Redeemer, The Miracle Worker; and stop running. Is it an issue of stress? Hypertension, Arthritis, Resentment, Bitterness, Fear: of change, letting go, moving forward, living, failure, success, abandonment, rejection, you aren’t enough; Panic, anger, divorce, marriage, no children, too many children- or combination of a few? All of this and more will complicate your life and steal years from it. No amount of cover up can truly bring forth a fountain of life. It just can’t!
When you get to the place of being sick and tired of being sick and tired your life will change. I had absolutely no idea what internally was growing and breeding in the depths of who I am. None. I had absolutely no clue how to truly forgive. None. Church told me to forgive but not how so I was faced with doing something I really had never done before. I did it. And I had no clue just how much every single aspect of my life would change; and how much weight I would lose. None.
And so if you are sick and tired of being sick and tired you are in the best place you could ever be in. This means you are ready for change. You are ready to let go and move on. You are ready to drop the pounds and start living your life; the real life God intended from the very beginning. You are ready to take back the power that you gave to others by saying no more poison are you going to accept.
It’s time for you now to experience weight loss internally and externally once and for all and for all the days of the rest of your life. That is what happens when you forgive. Going through the full process of forgiveness is literally a death; which would make sense because God’s Word tells us in order to live for Him we must die to self and that’s exactly what happens. You are no longer who you were. You cannot be!
If you want to experience true, genuine weight loss with no artificial ingredients, needles or weight gaining side effects then forgive. Go before the Father and share with Him everything; go find that mountain top. Let Him carry you while your transformation takes place; and the pounds are released. Let Him be the One who does a new thing in you so that you can be lighter, more filled with Him; and live your real life experiencing God in ways you never could before. Do it today as the season for the new you is waiting.
For more about forgiveness and freedom in Christ watch ‘Living in Forgiveness’ weeknights on the UANetwork.
To have Julie speak at your church or business visit www.julieblair.com
Forgiveness for many is this abstract concept that we’ve all heard for a lifetime to ‘do it’ but yet beyond that there isn’t much. Sit in any church and any pastor anywhere in the world will tell you there is nothing new there. It’s what happens when you forgive that sometimes no one talks about; which is course there must be a reason. Whatever that reason or reason are is not as important as actually know what happens when you forgive.
To begin forgiveness is both an event and a process. Through the event things occur and equally as such; the process of forgiveness numerous things are also occurring; and sometimes simultaneously. So what it is that takes place when you forgive?
1- There is a release within is displayed outward. When you harbor unforgiveness it is on display whether you like it or not. What is in the heart comes out the mouth and well; unforgiveness is no different. When you release the clutter of it; not only will you feel it physically but others will see the release. They may not fully understand what has taken place although they will know there is a transformation.
2- Your physically body will change. When I went through the process of forgiveness I had no clue how life changing it would be; to my body. I remember those days I spent in my room surrendering all the pain, bitterness, resentment and unforgiveness that was taking up space in my mind, body and spirit and had really no idea of what was actually taking place. Sure I had knew Romans 12:2 where it tells us to be transformed by the renewing of my mind although I didn’t catch on that it meant the body too. As a result when I had my first phone call after that experience I sounded different. The tone of my voice was different. Not only that; my eye color changed. This would make sense as when we make the choice to live in darkness we are literally surrounded by it; and I definitely was I just didn’t know it or even that unforgiveness is a form of darkness.
3- Your relationships change. Your relationships change because your heart is no longer as it was before you forgave. Those in your life will experience the new and softer you and in ways that I can’t begin to describe! My relationship with my biological mother changed drastically where I didn’t hate or resent her any more; my heart changed to accept and love her as Jesus did. The fact that she abandoned me all those years ago wasn’t something for her to pay for any longer. I was free and so was she. The release of forgiveness releases the bloom of your relationships because the bondage over them is removed.
4- You are changed. You are not the same person as you were before you made the choice to forgive; you can’t be. You cannot go through a life changing process and then be just as you were. The change is too dramatic. It would be similar to those who return from tour of duty for the military to come back with nothing being different or parents to go back and live as though they did before having children. It simply cannot be done. You are not who you were which means nothing in your life will ever be from that moment on. And praise God for that because the direction you would have gone would have only been further from Him.
5- The door to your life and purpose can open. Anything that is not of God that you allow to enter your life is a hindrance. Any hindrance only separates you from God; and that includes unforgiveness and your thinking. What happens is that any distortion of thought will keep you operating at a false level of action. Sure you may have a ‘good’ plan and life but that does not mean it is the ‘God’ plan for your life at all. When you forgive, you are changed. This means that going back to what you were once doing in the way that you were doing won’t be the same. It can’t be. You are not who you were when you were doing what you were doing. And as such trying to be who you were when you are not will prove to be very uncomfortable. Now this is not to say that you have a new identity and you should just go switch careers by any means but what it does mean is that for who you are becoming in the process of forgiveness; new opportunities will come. They can’t not!
You may know right at this very moment that God has something big in store for your life; and He does. Yet for some reason you just can’t seem to get to it; regardless of how many classes you take or life coaching sessions- nothing seems to work. That would be correct. The correct doors will open for you to enter and with ease because you will have moved yourself out of the way for God to work and through the process of forgiveness; you are becoming more who He created you to be which means the doors He desires will open. My testimony is proof of this. There is no way for me to write about forgiveness had I not walked through it. There is no life on the side of death in any realm.
6- Your relationship with the Lord will deepen. When the internal clutter is removed your hearing increases, you will walk in higher level of authority because you can and understand it; and you will grow in Him and His love in ways that you just have to experience for yourself. The way in which you see other people and their struggles will be more in line with His Word. Your heart for people will change and how you love and receive love from others will change; all because there is more of Him operating in you. It’s always been there it was just unforgiveness covering it all up. When it removed; the freedom to explore your relationship with the Lord will expound exponentially and for the betterment of His Kingdom.
7- You will be on your way to become who God intended in the beginning. God created you with very specific attributes and what a glorious things that is! The God of the universe had you in mind from before the foundation of the earth. You are something special dear beloved; and the enemy wants to destroy every bit of it. The best news is that when you forgive you are removing the enemy’s assignment to destroy you. You are taking the steps toward becoming who God created you to be from the very start. Whatever was eating you from the inside out will no longer have the power to control you; to rob you of your real identity. As you experience the process of forgiveness you will begin to be revealed to you and to the entire world. Gone is the past and everything with it and the real you can begin to live as God intended. The new wine can be poured into the new wineskin after all!
We serve a God who makes the impossible possible. A God that has every good thing in store for you who withholds no good thing. He has it all for you and while there is a plot to steal your life; through simply forgiving you can be restored to God’s original design. You can become who He created from all along. It’s right there all you have to do is get ready and do it! And do it before it’s too late.
For more about forgiveness watch ‘Living in Forgiveness’ weeknights at 9:30pm CST on the UANetwork.
In today’s society people pride themselves on being busy. Seriously; they do. Think about how often you speak of all the things that are keeping you busy. And through it all you are that much more important right? But here is the thing. Busy is a trap: Bound Under Satan’s Yoke. It’s time to break out of the prison. And now while you can.
The first step in even getting there is to recognize that being busy actually does put people in prison. Think of all the things that must get done; and how many of them are truly in need of getting done. What percentage would you say? 100% of course because you are in control and know all; you are the omnipotent one right that can handle it all. Yes you- are the hero! But get this; it’s only in your mind that you are.
If you were to remove just one item how much more time would you have? If you were to allow one person to do just one thing that needs getting done how much more peace would you have? If you were to pray two more minutes of prayer each day how much more wisdom would you grow into? If you were to make one change in your life how much better would your marriage be? Your business? Your employees? Your health? Your relationship with Jesus? How much? Count the cost of that and then calculate the cost of staying the same.
When you see it life will change. I too was locked up; in my mind. I didn’t know it. I didn’t know that all the running around was only keeping me out of breath; busy and in the end- tired and useless. You can’t be fruitful and busy at the same time because only one produces fruit. It was a process because I was able although just because you can doesn’t mean you should- do it all all the time that is.
So what do you do? How do you get out; break free? You make a choice. You go to the One who came to set the captives free for you are already free you just have to live free. And really; don’t think that you can do it on your own because if you could have- you would have known better than to get yourself there in the first place.
Your life is a reflection of the choices that you have made. Perhaps it’s time to start making new ones.It’s time to get a grip and be the one who is leading and not following the way. Don’t forget that Jesus was counter-cultural so if you claim to follow Him; don’t worry about being just that. It comes with the territory! And remember that it’s just as easy to create good habits as it is bad ones. So don’t let the bad ones exist just because you choose to not make good ones; you know the ones that keep you busy forever missing the actual life you were meant to live. Forgive yourself because if you don’t- you will only change your prison cell.
For more about freedom in forgiveness watch ‘Living in Forgiveness’ weeknights at 9:30pm CST on the UANetwork.
Forgiveness is a reflection of what is on the inside of someone’s heart. Those with unforgiveness reveal their heart condition as do those who live in forgiveness. What is disconcerting; however, is that most do not recognize what is in their heart. Matthew 15:18 states it plain: “But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.” (NIV) More people may be interested in what they are putting in their mouths that will cause weight gain all the while not even having a clue that what is stored in their hearts weighs them down more than any junk non-food! On the inside of each person is what matters most to the Lord as outlined in 1 Samuel 16:7, ‘7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” It should be no wonder that people do not take or have the time to look inward when everything in current day society is focused on outward appearance. With over 7,000 fashion magazines in the US and 2010 Harper’s Bazaar’ generated 206.7 million U.S. dollars by selling advertising space’ it is evident where the hearts of people are. (http://www.statista.com/statistics/198055/advertising-revenue-of-us-fashion-magazines/) Let it too not be forgotten that the words of Matthew are not minced. “21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? (Matthew 6:21-25)(NIV) When people fixate their hearts and minds on the things not of God it is a reflection of where their heart truly is. In the book If I don’t Remember…. Why Should You author Keith Lyvell Brooks writes,
“Selfishness in the lives of humans is at an all time low. People are losing their jobs, homes, cars, boats, pension plans, and stocks. Churches are shutting down. Debt, debt and more debt continue to snowball in a person’s live without an answer. Everyone is looking for a way out, but for some odd reason they don’t want to humble themselves, pray, and seek my kingdom….my system of doing things. Where there is disobedience, there is selfishness, there is selfishness and why people are so selfish! This is because of fear which is born out of being selfish.” (p11,12)
The reflection of what people are seeking that simply glorifies self is an indication of where we are in current society. Until the level of selfishness is removed to reveal the righteousness in Christ the continued results will be evident. The lacking of fruit within the lives of Christians and nations will expand to an ever increasing rate. This is why recognition that forgiveness is a reflection of what is our hearts and dealing with the bondage that it breeds is a must for internal freedom to reign.
Luke 6:45 reads that “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” When a person is filled with unforgiveness it pours out of the heart of that person. From personal experience; it was what was known. It was decades of personal internal clutter that spewed out like poison. I was not aware that the prism of what was internally being shown to others was not a prism of beauty in color. It was rather dark, dim, and diminishing. It wasn’t until the scripture came alive and revealed the deepest level of what was lurking in the innermost part of my heart that I began to get free. Once reality hit; life changed. It is only until the revelation of what God’s Word reads and one gets honest in front of the mirror can true change occur. Forgiveness and unforgiveness alike are revealed in the heart of every person. On this day I encourage you to seek Him for what you must relinquish; what selfishness and selfish ways you have chosen that are keeping you in bondage. Your life depends upon on it.
For more about forgiveness in Christ watch ‘Living in Forgiveness’ weeknights at 9:30pm CST on the UANetwork.