The Hidden Purpose of Worship: Finding Abundance in God's Presence

🔥 WHEN WORSHIP BECOMES YOUR ONLY STRATEGY

Have you ever found yourself desperately seeking a breakthrough while God seems silent? What if the very act of worship—with no agenda beyond honoring Him—is actually the doorway to everything you've been seeking?

Twenty years ago today, I stood in a crowded funeral home looking at my father's body. Despite years in ministry and comforting countless others through grief, all the words I'd spoken to others felt hollow in that moment. Then I felt a gentle nudge in my spirit: just worship.

Not worship for an outcome. Not worship to convince God of anything. Simply worship because He is worthy.

I slipped into the chapel, found a piano, and began singing softly to the Lord. In those 30 minutes, something profound shifted—not in my circumstances (I was still grieving), but in my perspective. The heavy burden lifted as I remembered who was really in control.

This experience taught me a truth I want to share with you today: Abundance, victory, and family revival are not the purpose of our worship—they're the byproducts. Jesus' worth alone is the purpose of our worship.

💎 THE DIVINE ORDER OF WORSHIP

Scripture repeatedly shows us that worship establishes divine order in our lives. When we properly enthrone God in our hearts through genuine adoration, everything else naturally aligns.

Consider King Jehoshaphat's story in 2 Chronicles 20. Faced with overwhelming enemies, his first response was to seek the Lord. After gathering the entire community—"with their little ones, their wives, and their children"—before God, they received this powerful promise: "Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chronicles 20:15).

What happened next reveals a profound spiritual principle. God's strategy wasn't complex military tactics or supernatural intervention without participation. Instead, He instructed them to:

1. Position themselves (be present and attentive)

2. Stand still (cease striving)

3. See the salvation of the Lord (witness His deliverance)

The outcome? Jehoshaphat appointed singers to go before the army, praising "the beauty of holiness" and declaring, "Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever" (2 Chronicles 20:21). When they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against their enemies.

The abundance that followed was so immense it took three days to collect the spoils.

🌱 WHY WORSHIP TRANSFORMS EVERYTHING

True worship creates three powerful shifts in our lives:

1. True worship establishes divine order

When God is properly enthroned in our hearts, everything else aligns correctly. Complete obedience and wholehearted worship lead to divine establishment and abundance, while partial obedience results in struggle and instability.

2. Worship creates accurate perspective

When we worship, God becomes magnified in our view, helping us filter life's challenges through the lens of His nature and character. In times of fear and crisis, worship redirects our focus from overwhelming circumstances to God's unchanging promises.

3. Worship precedes abundance

Throughout Chronicles, we see how worship-centered leadership consistently led to prosperity, peace, and even enemies bringing tribute. True abundance flows from identity ("Be"), leading to purposeful action ("Do"), resulting in provision ("Have").

🔍 THE LITMUS TEST

Here's a question to ponder: Does your pursuit of provision lead you deeper into ministering to God, or further away? Does it increase your dependence on Him, or your self-reliance?

If victory isn't our primary pursuit but rather the byproduct of seeking God, then our motives must be purified so we can walk through the door of breakthrough without breaking stride—and without thinking we accomplished it in our own power.

⚡ LIVING IT OUT THIS WEEK

1. Set aside 15 minutes daily for agenda-free worship - Not praying for needs, just honoring His worth

2. When facing challenges, ask: "How can I position myself to see God's salvation in this situation?"

3. Practice yielding, not just surrendering - Make an empowered, daily decision to align proactively with God's will

4. Notice where you're partially obedient - Where might incomplete obedience be creating instability in your life?

5. Look for the three marks of abundance:

   • Creativity (reflecting God's creative nature)

   • Connection (countering isolation)

   • Contribution (expanding God's Kingdom)

Remember, like the Hebrew word for salvation (yeshu'ah) points to Jesus (Yeshua) himself, our worship ultimately leads us to the person of Christ—the embodiment of all we need.

💫 A FINAL THOUGHT

Like the three Hebrew young men thrown into the fiery furnace who found "one like the Son of Man" in their midst, when you know Him well enough and need Him desperately enough, He has a way of showing up early in your circumstances.

What situation are you facing today that needs His presence more than your solution?

Share your worship story in the comments below! How has God shown up when you've chosen to worship despite difficult circumstances?

"Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever." – 2 Chronicles 20:21

The Finished Work: Breaking Free from the Performance Trap

Have you ever found yourself on a spiritual roller coaster — soaring with revelation one week and drowning in doubt the next? That constant cycle isn't God's design for you. What if I told you that the most liberating truth of Christianity is hidden in a single Greek word most of us have never heard?

🔍 The Word That Changes Everything

Picture this: Jesus hanging on the cross, having endured unimaginable suffering, looks up and declares "It is finished!" That phrase — tetelestai in Greek — isn't just a simple statement that His suffering was over. It's a declaration that echoes through eternity and has the power to transform your daily walk with God.

One early church leader named Origen wrote that Jesus was crucified on the spot where Adam was buried, and when the earthquake occurred during the crucifixion, Jesus' blood ran down through a crack in the rock and fell on Adam's skull. Whether historically accurate or not, this powerful imagery illustrates something profound — Jesus' sacrifice didn't just cover our individual sins; it went all the way back to the root of sin itself.

💡 What "Finished" Really Means

The word tetelestai carries four profound meanings that can revolutionize your understanding of grace:

1. Mission Accomplished — Jesus was saying, "I have done exactly what You requested." He perfectly fulfilled the Father's mission.

2. Sacrifice Completed — This was the word priests would declare when offering a spotless sacrifice. Jesus was announcing Himself as the perfect, final sacrifice.

3. Debt Paid in Full — In business transactions, tetelestai was stamped on documents to indicate complete payment. Your spiritual debt? Canceled.

4. New Era Begun — It marked the dividing line between the old covenant of law and the new covenant of grace.

The veil was torn. The separation between you and God? It's now nothing but an illusion.

🔄 The Performance Trap

"Most of us were taught His character through the lens of performance-based religion that is based in the law... Most of these teachings and my understanding created illusions about God that are simply not true."

We still live trapped in the "He loves me, He loves me not" cycle because we believe we must earn God's love through perfect adherence to rules. We engage in emotional self-flagellation when we fail, treating God's love like a scoreboard that fluctuates with our performance.

But this completely contradicts what Jesus accomplished! Romans 4:5 tells us: "But no one earns God's righteousness. It can only be transferred when we no longer rely on our own works, but believe in the one who powerfully declares the ungodly to be righteous in his eyes. It is faith that transfers God's righteousness into your account!"

✨ A New Perspective

When we finally grasp what tetelestai means, our spiritual journey transforms from striving to receiving:

"A life of thanksgiving and worship unveils a reality to me that there is more available."

1 John 3:3 reveals something extraordinary: "And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure." Hope — not effort — purifies. When we have confident expectation in God's goodness and our identity as His beloved children, purity flows naturally.

As Brennan Manning beautifully put it: "Define yourself radically as one beloved by God. This is the true self. Every other identity is illusion."

🧭 Practical Next Steps

1. Identify Your Scorecards — What "performance metrics" are you unconsciously using to measure God's love for you? Write them down, then prayerfully surrender each one.

2. Practice Declaration — Begin each day by declaring "It is finished!" over specific areas where you feel condemnation or pressure to perform.

3. Gratitude Exercise — Psalm 50:23 says, "The life that pleases me is a life lived in the gratitude of grace..." Start a daily gratitude journal focusing on aspects of God's grace you've received rather than earned.

4. Renew Your Filters — Ask yourself: "Am I processing information through news and culture more than Scripture?" Commit to soaking in God's perspective daily.

🤝 The Kingdom Community

The enemy's greatest strategy is convincing you that real freedom isn't available — that your failures are greater than what Jesus' blood accomplished. But together, as Kingdom family, we can remind each other of this absolute truth: tetelestai — it is finished!

Would you share in the comments one area where you need to apply the finished work of Christ? Let's build a community that helps each other break free from the performance trap and walk in the fullness of what Jesus has already accomplished.

Remember, your identity isn't based on what you do — it's rooted in what He's done. And that work? It is completely, perfectly, eternally finished.

"Look with wonder at the depth of the Father's marvelous love that he has lavished on us! He has called us and made us his very own beloved children." — 1 John 3:1

When the Battle Is Not Yours: Finding Peace in the Midst of Chaos 🙏

Have you ever felt like you were doing everything right in your walk with God, only to be blindsided by unexpected challenges? Like the spiritual math doesn't add up? You've been reading your Bible, attending church, praying consistently—and yet, chaos still finds its way to your doorstep.

The Squeeze Test 🍋

King Jehoshaphat's story in 2 Chronicles 20 offers us a powerful reminder that even the most faithful followers of God face overwhelming battles. This righteous king had been leading Judah in revival, tearing down idols and bringing people back to God. Then we read those four telling words: "It happened after this."

Just like a lemon reveals what's inside when squeezed, our responses to sudden crises reveal what truly lives in our hearts. As the Scripture tells us, Jehoshaphat received terrifying news: "A great multitude is coming against you from beyond the sea, from Syria; and they are in Hazazon Tamar."

What would your immediate response be to such news? Panic? Despair? Anger?

Jehoshaphat's initial reaction was completely human—he felt fear. But what he did next reveals the true power of a worship-centered life.

A Pattern for Facing Our Battles 🛡️

The text says, "And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah."

Notice the progression:

1. He acknowledged his fear (emotional honesty)

2. He deliberately positioned himself to seek God (intentional worship)

3. He called others to join him (community response)

There's something profoundly instructive about this pattern. When facing our own impossible situations, our natural response might be to strategize, worry, or even blame. Yet Jehoshaphat shows us a better way—turning our attention immediately to God.

The Power of a Worship-First Response ✨

Jehoshaphat's prayer in verses 6-12 demonstrates the transformative nature of worship in crisis. He didn't begin by presenting his problem—he began by declaring who God is:

"O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You?"

This prayer reveals a crucial truth: All of the issues we face where we question God's involvement in our lives are ultimately Lordship issues. When we struggle to believe God can or wants to resolve our situations, it indicates something about who sits on the throne of our hearts regarding that issue.

Jehoshaphat's prayer followed a powerful pattern that we can adopt:

1. He affirmed God's position and power (verses 6-7)

2. He recalled God's covenant faithfulness (verses 7-8)

3. He committed to seeking God in His dwelling place (verse 9)

4. He honestly presented the problem (verses 10-11)

5. He admitted their powerlessness and fixed their eyes on God (verse 12)

The Divine Response to Authentic Worship 🔥

The story takes a beautiful turn when the entire community—"all Judah, with their little ones, their wives, and their children"—stood before the Lord. In that moment of unified worship, the Spirit of the Lord spoke through Jahaziel with these life-changing words:

"Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's."

Can you imagine the relief washing over them? The burden lifting? The fear dissolving?

Sometimes our greatest act of faith is not figuring out how to win our battles, but surrendering them completely to God—acknowledging that they were never ours to fight in the first place.

Living from a Renewed Mind 🧠

Worship and abundance create fertile ground for living with a renewed mind. The apostle Paul urges us in Romans 12:2 to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind," and Jehoshaphat's story shows us this principle in action.

What we continually look at and give our attention to ultimately gains our affection. We become what we behold! When we fix our eyes on our problems, they grow larger. When we fix our eyes on God, He grows larger in our perspective.

Worship causes us to see correctly and hear correctly, even in the midst of threatening circumstances.

Your Battle Today 💪

What battle are you facing today that feels overwhelming? A relationship struggle? Financial pressure? Health concerns? Career uncertainty?

Take a moment right now to follow Jehoshaphat's example:

1. Be honest about your emotions—it's okay to acknowledge fear or worry

2. Set yourself to seek the Lord through worship and prayer

3. Remember God's faithfulness in your past

4. Admit where you feel powerless

5. Fix your eyes completely on Him

Then listen for His voice saying, "Do not be afraid nor dismayed... for the battle is not yours, but God's."

Let's Connect ❤️

How has God shown you that a battle wasn't yours to fight? Share your story in the comments below. Your testimony might be exactly what someone else needs to hear today.

Remember, we're stronger together. When Jehoshaphat called the people to seek God, they came "from all the cities of Judah." Your vulnerability and faith can help build our community and encourage others on similar journeys.

Let's fix our eyes on Him together!

Worship: The Gateway to Abundance and Transformation

Have you ever noticed how certain people seem to thrive even in challenging circumstances? What if the secret wasn't about their strategy, but about their focus? 🤔

The Jehoshaphat Effect

In the ancient kingdom of Judah, a king named Jehoshaphat faced what many of us experience today—pressure from all sides and decisions that would impact not just his life but the lives of everyone around him. What set him apart wasn't his royal lineage or military prowess, but a simple, profound choice that transformed his kingdom.

"His heart took delight in the Lord" (2 Chronicles 17:6).

This wasn't just a casual spiritual interest—it was a deliberate positioning of his heart. Jehoshaphat made worship his priority, and something extraordinary happened: abundance followed.

The Worship-Abundance Connection 💫

When Jehoshaphat chose to make God his focal point, several remarkable shifts occurred:

1. Divine Establishment "The Lord established the kingdom in his hand. He had riches and honor in abundance" (2 Chronicles 17:5).

True worship doesn't just change your perspective—it changes your position. What God establishes cannot be easily shaken. In a world obsessed with building platforms and establishing influence, there's something profoundly countercultural about letting God do the establishing.

2. Clarity of Vision Jehoshaphat could distinguish between cultural voices and God's voice (2 Chronicles 18:4-6). This discernment is desperately needed in our age where, as the document notes, we're the most "diagnosed" generation in history.

When 42% of Gen Z has been diagnosed with mental health conditions, we must ask: Are we accepting cultural narratives too readily? What would happen if we elevated God's perspective above all others?

3. Unexpected Provision "Enemies brought gifts → Jehoshaphat became increasingly powerful" (2 Chronicles 17:11).

Perhaps the most beautiful outcome of worship is how it transforms opposition into opportunity. The very forces that once stood against Jehoshaphat became channels of blessing. What if the challenges you're facing today are disguised opportunities for abundance?

The Reformation That Follows True Worship 🔄

Jehoshaphat didn't just enjoy personal blessing—his worship sparked widespread reformation:

• He traveled throughout the land to reconnect people with their spiritual heritage

• He reformed the judicial system to reflect God's character

• He created a community of "worshiping warriors"—people who understood that their strength came from their surrender

"A real worship movement will always spark reformation and re-forming of what has been built, formed and established."

This truth resonates deeply in our current cultural moment. We don't just need revival—we need reformation. We need systems, structures, and communities that reflect God's heart and character.

Practical Steps for a Worship-Centered Life 🚶‍♂️

1. Reclaim Your Focus Set aside time daily for undistracted worship. This isn't about perfect singing or elaborate prayers—it's about fixing your gaze on Jesus. Start with even five minutes of undivided attention on who God is, not just what He can do.

2. Discern Between Voices Practice asking: "Is this cultural wisdom or godly wisdom?" When faced with diagnoses, challenges, or decisions, filter everything through Scripture and the character of God.

3. Expect Expansion Begin looking for opportunities in opposition. Jehoshaphat built storage cities because he expected abundance. What preparations can you make today for the abundance God wants to bring tomorrow?

4. Join the Reformers Identify one area where you can help align things with God's character—whether in your family, workplace, or community. True worshipers don't just sing songs; they help reshape reality.

The Solid Rock 🪨

As the old hymn beautifully reminds us: "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness, I dare not trust the sweetest frame but wholly lean on Jesus' name...On Christ the solid rock I stand...all other ground is sinking sand."

Our generation doesn't need another diagnosis—we need a different foundation. When we place worship at the center, everything else finds its proper place. The result isn't just personal peace; it's kingdom transformation.

This Week's Challenge ✨

Choose one area where you've been accepting a cultural narrative over God's perspective. It might be about your identity, your circumstances, or your future. Commit to intentionally worshiping God specifically in that area this week.

Then watch what happens—not just in your circumstances, but in your heart.

💬 Share in the comments: What happens when you make worship your priority? Has there been a time when focusing on God transformed a situation in your life?

Remember: On Christ the solid rock we stand—all other ground is sinking sand.

Cultivating Kingdom Prosperity: Moving from Scarcity to Abundance

Have you ever noticed how your beliefs about money shape your entire financial reality? 🤔 The ecosystem you create around wealth determines whether you experience scarcity or abundance in your life and ministry.

The Ecosystem of Heaven on Earth

When Jesus came to earth, He didn't arrive empty-handed. He brought with Him the entire ecosystem of Heaven—a community of living principles designed to interact with us in our earthly environment. This divine ecosystem includes Kingdom prosperity, a concept often misunderstood or even rejected by many believers.

Think about the natural world for a moment. Plants, animals, and microorganisms don't thrive in isolation—they flourish within interconnected systems where each component supports the others. In the same way, our financial prosperity in God's Kingdom operates within a spiritual ecosystem governed by principles of faithfulness, stewardship, and generosity.

The Parable That Changed Everything

I remember speaking with a businessman who had built a successful company from nothing. For years, he operated his business with a scarcity mindset, hoarding resources and living in constant fear of loss. "I was the third servant in Jesus' parable," he confessed. "I buried my talents because I was afraid of failure."

This parable from Matthew 25:14-29 tells of three servants entrusted with different amounts of money (talents) while their master went away. Two invested and doubled their money, while one buried his portion out of fear.

When the master returned, the two faithful servants were rewarded abundantly, not just with more wealth but with greater authority: "You will experience the delight of your master, who will say to you, 'Enter into the joy of your Lord!'" But the fearful servant? He lost even what little he had.

My friend's breakthrough came when he realized his mindset—not the economy, not his competitors—was his greatest limitation. "When I shifted from fear to faithfulness, everything changed. I began investing in Kingdom opportunities I would have previously avoided."

Three Keys to Creating an Ecosystem of Wealth

1️⃣ Principles Don't Change When Circumstances Do

"He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap." (Ecclesiastes 11:4)

Remember Isaac in Genesis 26? He sowed during a famine—the worst possible time—yet reaped a hundredfold harvest. Why? Because God's principles of sowing and reaping remain constant regardless of external conditions.

When you wait for perfect circumstances to invest, give, or expand, you'll remain stuck in scarcity. Kingdom principles work especially in imperfect conditions, revealing God's supernatural provision.

2️⃣ Connect to Yahweh Through Thankfulness

"And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant." (Deuteronomy 8:18)

The greatest danger in prosperity isn't having resources—it's forgetting their source. Deuteronomy 8 warns against the human tendency to say, "My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth."

Thankfulness isn't just polite—it's powerful. It's the hinge that opens the door to continuous provision by acknowledging God as your source. When was the last time your gratitude moved you to sacrifice? True thankfulness always does.

3️⃣ Shift from Sourcing to Resourcing

"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work." (2 Corinthians 9:8)

There's a profound difference between:

• Sourcing (procuring resources for yourself)

• Resourcing (becoming a supply channel for others)

God doesn't just want to make you wealthy—He wants to make you a wealth distributor. When you function as a resource, you step into a priestly role, ministering to God through your generosity and leading others to worship through your example.

Like Cornelius in Acts 10, your prayers and giving rise before God as a memorial, establishing your identity as both king and priest in His Kingdom.

Your Prosperity Breakthrough 🌱

This week, I challenge you to:

1. Identify one fear-based financial belief and replace it with a Kingdom principle.

2. Practice specific thanksgiving daily for God's provision—past, present and future.

3. Find one person or ministry to resource, even if it feels uncomfortable.

Remember, feelings don't legitimize truth—they justify our beliefs. If your feelings tell you prosperity is wrong or unattainable, they're simply reinforcing existing beliefs that can be transformed through God's Word.

Join the Conversation 💬

How has your mindset about wealth affected your experience of Kingdom prosperity? Share your journey in the comments below!

Ready to create a new ecosystem of abundance in your life? Share this post with someone who needs this message today, and let's build a community that prospers to resource God's Kingdom work!

"For the one who has will be given more, until he overflows with abundance." —Matthew 25:29

Breaking Free: Moving from a Poverty Mindset to Kingdom Abundance

Breaking Free: Moving from a Poverty Mindset to Kingdom Abundance

💭 What's Holding Back Your Breakthrough?

Have you ever found yourself automatically expecting the worst when faced with an important decision? That reflexive thought of "there won't be enough" or "this will probably fail" isn't just negative thinking—it might be evidence of a deeper spiritual issue.

🌱 The Gardener Who Feared to Plant

Imagine a gardener who receives premium seeds during a drought. Instead of planting them in faith, he clutches them tightly, afraid to lose what little he has. Meanwhile, his neighbor—facing the same drought—plants her seeds, trusting the promise of rain. When unexpected showers come, guess whose garden flourishes?

This mirrors the parable Jesus told about the servants and their gold coins in Matthew 25. The servant who buried his master's money did so because of what he believed about his master: "I was afraid of you... you are a shrewd and ruthless businessman." His perspective didn't just cost him an opportunity—it revealed his heart.

⚡ Kingdom Truths About Abundance

The document reveals several powerful insights about breaking free from poverty thinking:

1. Poverty is a heart issue, not just a wallet issue

"The Issues of POVERTY and money are always issues of the heart, Lordship issues." This mindset operates from a place of fear rather than faith, hoarding rather than sowing, and self-protection rather than generous stewardship.

2. God's nature is generous, not stingy

"It is imperative that we understand that God is generous." The Holy Spirit is described as the "generous Spirit" (Psalm 51:12). When we view God as withholding or harsh, we operate from a distorted understanding of His nature.

3. You gain authority through obedience, not just giftedness

"You gain authority in areas where you exercise obedience not giftedness." The faithful servants in Luke 19 weren't just rewarded with more money—they were granted authority over cities.

4. Principles don't change because circumstances do

"Principles in the Kingdom do not stop being principles because circumstances change." Just as Isaac sowed during famine and reaped a hundredfold harvest (Genesis 26), Kingdom principles of sowing and reaping work even in challenging seasons.

🔑 Shifting Your Mindset: From Sourcing to Resourcing

One of the most transformative concepts presented is the shift from a "sourcing" mindset to a "resourcing" mindset:

Sourcing = Procurement
Constantly trying to acquire, find, and obtain resources for yourself

Resourcing = Providing
Becoming the supply that others need—understanding that God has positioned you as a conduit, not just a container

"God resources us so that we can resource others. By doing this we are functioning in a priestly role before Yahweh. We are ministering to Him through our generosity."

✅ Breaking Free: Practical Steps

1. Identify Your Reflexes: When facing decisions about money or resources, what's your automatic response? Fear or faith? Lack or abundance?

2. Repent of False Beliefs: Break agreement with the lie that "there will never be enough" and align with the truth of God's generous nature.

3. Practice Thankfulness: Deuteronomy 8 shows that thankfulness is the hinge that opens the door to prosperity. Begin and end each day acknowledging God as your source.

4. Start Small, Stay Faithful: Like the servants who were faithful with small amounts, demonstrate trustworthiness with what you currently have.

5. Shift From Getting to Giving: Ask yourself daily, "How can I be a resource to someone else today?" even if what you have seems small.

💫 The Invitation to Kingdom Abundance

The Kingdom ecosystem of prosperity isn't just about accumulating wealth—it's about becoming a conduit of blessing that transforms communities and glorifies God.

As Psalm 112:1-2 promises: "Everyone who loves the Lord and delights in him will cherish his words and be blessed beyond expectation. Their descendants will be prosperous and influential."

👉 Your Turn

Which of these poverty mindsets do you recognize in your own thinking? How might your life change if you saw yourself as a resource rather than always seeking resources?

Share your insights in the comments below, and if this message resonated with you, pass it along to someone who needs this perspective shift today. Let's build a community that understands and demonstrates the true nature of Kingdom prosperity!

"For you have experienced the extravagant grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that although he was infinitely rich, he impoverished himself for our sake, so that by his poverty, we become rich beyond measure." - 2 Corinthians 8:9 (TPT)

The Power of Full Obedience

The Power of Full Obedience: Moving from Yielding to Abundance

Have you ever felt stuck in a cycle of "almost there" with God? Like you're doing most things right, but something's still missing? 🤔

I found myself reflecting on this recently while studying the contrasting reigns of King Asa and his son Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles. Their stories reveal a profound truth that might be the missing piece in your spiritual journey.

The Tale of Two Kings

Imagine two leaders, both devoted to God, both making significant reforms in their nation. Yet one struggles with constant battles and instability, while the other experiences prosperity, peace, and divine establishment.

This wasn't just ancient history playing out—it was a spiritual principle being demonstrated through their lives.

King Asa loved God. Scripture even tells us "his heart was loyal to the Lord all his days." Yet there was one area where his obedience remained partial—he didn't remove the high places of idol worship. This single area of compromise created a foundation of instability that plagued his entire reign.

His son Jehoshaphat, however, took obedience a step further. The Bible says "his heart took delight in the ways of the Lord; moreover he removed the high places and wooden images from Judah." This complete obedience led to something remarkable—a kingdom that was "established in his hand."

"When leaders obey fully, God establishes them; when obedience is partial, insecurity and instability persist."

Partial vs. Full Obedience

There's a world of difference between these two approaches to following God:

Partial obedience requires constant effort ("strengthen your hands"). It's exhausting. You're always fighting battles that shouldn't be yours to fight. You experience moments of victory followed by unexpected defeats.

Full obedience results in divine establishment. When Jehoshaphat fully aligned with God's ways, amazing things happened:

1. A powerful movement of worship and teaching spread through the nation (2 Chronicles 17:7-10)

2. The fear of the Lord fell on surrounding kingdoms so they didn't attack

3. His enemies began bringing him wealth and tributes (2 Chronicles 17:11)

4. He "became increasingly powerful" and built fortresses and storage cities

Does this mean Jehoshaphat never faced challenges? Of course not. But his foundation was secure.

Beyond Surrender: The Power of Yielding

This brings me to a distinction that has transformed my own walk with God: the difference between surrendering and yielding.

Surrender often carries the connotation of giving up or losing something. It can feel passive—like we're waving a white flag in defeat.

Yielding, however, is an active, intentional decision to align with God's purpose. It's saying "yes" to His plan before you fully understand it.

Think about driving on a highway. Yielding isn't about stopping—it's about merging into the flow of traffic. Spiritually, it means positioning yourself to move in harmony with what God is already doing.

"Yielding is not about giving up—it's about stepping into divine alignment."

The Be, Do, Have Blueprint for Abundance

God's original command to humanity reveals His blueprint for abundance:

BE – Identity is the foundation. Genesis 1:27 tells us we are created in God's image. When you truly understand who you are—that you carry the seed of God's creativity within you—everything changes. You don't have to strive to be fruitful; you were designed for it.

DO – Your actions flow from your identity. The command to "be fruitful and multiply" isn't passive—it's a call to intentional action. When you know who you are, your actions align naturally with your divine design.

HAVE – What you possess is the result of who you are and what you do. Abundance follows intentionality. God's design isn't for scarcity but for overflow.

The 7 Dimensions of Praise

One practical way Jehoshaphat experienced breakthrough was through a commitment to worship. The document outlines seven Hebrew words for praise that reveal different dimensions of our worship:

1. Todah – Thanksgiving, extending the hand in gratitude even when we don't feel like it

2. Yadah – Lifting hands in worship, an outward expression of victory

3. Halal – Boasting in God, celebrating Him exuberantly (the root of "Hallelujah")

4. Shabach – Shouting or declaring triumphantly

5. Zamar – Praising with music and instruments

6. Barak – Kneeling in reverence and adoration

7. Tehillah – Spontaneous, Spirit-led songs of praise

These aren't just cultural expressions—they're divine invitations to encounter God face-to-face.

This Week's Challenge

Where might God be calling you to move from partial to full obedience? What "high places" remain in your life that are creating instability?

I challenge you this week to:

1. Identify one area where you've been holding back from full alignment with God

2. Make a conscious decision to yield in that area—not just surrendering, but actively saying "yes" to God's direction

3. Express your commitment through one of the dimensions of praise we explored

4. Journal what happens as you take these steps of faith

Let's Connect

Has this message resonated with you? I'd love to hear your story! Share in the comments how God is calling you to move from partial to full obedience, or a time when yielding to God led to unexpected abundance in your life.

Remember, in the kingdom of God, partial obedience brings struggle, but full obedience brings divine establishment. Let's choose the path of Jehoshaphat—complete alignment that leads to supernatural provision.

"But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!" (2 Chronicles 15:7)

Worship & Abundance: Making Room for the King in 2025

Have you ever noticed how your entire perspective can shift in a moment of worship? How the weight of life's challenges suddenly feels lighter when you turn your gaze toward heaven? There's something transformative that happens when we make room for the King.

🔥 The Battle Isn't Yours

Picture this: Ancient Judah faces an overwhelming enemy force. Families gather—parents, children, even infants—standing together before the Lord in desperate need. The situation seems hopeless until a prophet steps forward with a message that echoes through the centuries:

"Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's." (2 Chronicles 20:15)

What follows is one of the most remarkable military victories in Scripture, won not through conventional warfare but through worship. King Jehoshaphat placed singers at the front of his army, and as they began to praise, the Lord set ambushes against their enemies.

This wasn't just a quirky battle strategy. It was a profound demonstration of a spiritual principle: when we make worship our first response, God makes victory His responsibility.

⚡ The Divine Demarcation

"We are moving into a time where there will be a clear demarcation between the people of God and those who oppose Him."

This statement isn't about superiority or separation for its own sake. It's about distinction in approach. While the world frantically pursues security through human means, God's people are being called to a different path.

Look at the pattern in Scripture. The kings who followed God's ways—Asa, Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, Josiah—shared common characteristics:

1. They restored true worship

2. They destroyed idolatry

3. They relied on God's Word and prophets

4. They experienced military victories through faith

5. They operated from abundance and prosperity

Meanwhile, every single king of northern Israel rejected God's ways and experienced temporary success overshadowed by moral decay and eventual collapse.

The difference wasn't political strategy or economic policy. It was worship—where they placed their ultimate affection and trust.

💎 The Purification of Motives

Why is God speaking about abundance in this moment? Because He's purifying motives in the body of Christ.

True worship isn't about getting something from God. It's about giving everything to Him. Like Mary breaking her alabaster flask, pouring out not just the perfume but shattering the container itself, signifying there's no going back to "normal" after an encounter with Jesus.

"Worship is the soul's wholehearted response to the revealed glory of God in Christ Jesus."

This kind of worship—costly, abandoned, wholehearted—does something remarkable. It transforms us into His image and releases His presence into our atmosphere. It creates space for divine intervention.

🏆 Making Room for the King

The phrase "Make Room for the King" isn't just a nice spiritual sentiment. It's a practical invitation to rearrange our lives around His presence.

Consider this definition of wealth: having exactly what is needed in the moment it's needed. By this standard, the poorest person with Jesus is infinitely wealthy, because in Him we have everything we need for life and godliness.

Jehoshaphat understood this. Scripture says, "The Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the former ways of his father David... Therefore the Lord established the kingdom in his hand; and he had riches and honor in abundance." (2 Chronicles 17:3,5)

The abundance followed his worship. Not the other way around.

⚔️ Pulling Down Strongholds

"The reason God is calling us to renew our minds and create new neural pathways by the design of the Holy Spirit is because anything that seeks to exalt itself above the knowledge of God, whether actual or perceived, must be pulled down."

When we worship, we're not just singing songs—we're declaring war on everything that competes with God for the throne of our hearts. We're building new neural pathways that make trust in God our default response rather than anxiety, fear, or self-reliance.

This is why regular, intentional worship is so crucial. It's spiritual weight training for the battles ahead.

🌟 Your Action Steps This Week

1. Schedule daily worship time - Even if it's just 10 minutes, set aside time to focus completely on God's worthiness, not your needs.

2. Identify your high places - What thoughts or areas of your life compete with God for first place? Name them specifically.

3. Declare God's abundance - Speak scriptures about God's provision over your circumstances, especially the ones that feel impossibly large.

4. Gather your family - Like the families of Judah who stood before the Lord together, invite your household into worship.

5. Watch for the demarcation - Notice how God begins to distinguish your path from the world's patterns as you prioritize His presence.

Remember, "Some trust in horses and some trust in chariots, but we will trust in the Name of our God." When you face challenges this week, make worship your first response—not your last resort.

✝️ A Final Thought

What if the abundance you're seeking is actually found in the presence you're neglecting? What if the victory you need is waiting on the worship you withhold?

The battle isn't yours. It never was. Make room for the King, and watch Him fight for you.

Share this post with someone who needs to be reminded that their battle belongs to the Lord. How has worship shifted your perspective in difficult times? Comment below and join the conversation!

Perception, Patterns, Power: Transforming Thought Patterns

Have you ever found yourself caught in a cycle of spiritual exhaustion—constantly doing, serving, and striving, yet still feeling like you're never quite measuring up? If so, you're not alone. In fact, you're in good company with Jesus' own disciples.

When the Bread of Life is Right Beside You

I've been reflecting lately on that fascinating moment in Mark 8 when the disciples are in a boat with Jesus, worried about not having enough bread. They're anxiously discussing their lack of provisions while literally sitting next to the One who had just fed thousands with a few loaves. Talk about missing the forest for the trees!

Jesus' response is telling: "Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened?" (Mark 8:17)

This moment wasn't just about bread. It was about a mindset—one that many of us struggle with daily.

The Performance Trap

At its core, what the disciples were experiencing was a performance mentality. They believed their well-being depended on their ability to provide, prepare, and perform. Sound familiar?

This performance-driven approach to faith manifests in our lives in subtle yet powerful ways:

• Believing God's love for us fluctuates based on our spiritual productivity

• Feeling anxious when we miss our daily devotional time

• Serving in ministry out of obligation rather than overflow

• Comparing our spiritual journey to others

• Struggling to simply rest in God's presence without "doing" something

The truth is, a performance mindset isn't just exhausting—it's completely contrary to the gospel of grace.

Kingdom Thinking vs. Circumstantial Christianity

What Jesus was trying to teach His disciples (and us) is the difference between circumstantial thinking and Kingdom thinking.

Circumstantial Christianity says: "I'll believe when I see provision." Kingdom thinking says: "I already have everything I need in Christ."

Circumstantial Christianity asks: "What if there's not enough?" Kingdom thinking declares: "My God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory."

The disciples were worried about something that could never actually be an issue. Why? Because the Provider was right there with them. The same is true for us.

Why We Struggle to Engage

One of the most profound insights I've discovered is why we often struggle to maintain an intimate relationship with God:

1. We avoid conversations about what we don't want to do. It's hard to cultivate depth with the Holy Spirit when we're consistently saying "no" to His promptings.

2. We believe God is disappointed in us. When we carry the conviction that He's displeased with us, we naturally withdraw—just as we would from someone whose judgment we fear.

3. We don't truly know who we are. Without confidence in our identity in Christ, approaching Him becomes challenging. When we don't see ourselves as beloved children, we don't engage with Him as our Father.

Breaking Free from Survival Mode

A survival mentality keeps us reactive rather than proactive, circumstance-driven rather than purpose-driven. Jesus wasn't just providing for His disciples' physical needs—He was discipling their mindset, teaching them to shift from fear of lack to confidence in provision.

Remember what He said in Matthew 16:18: "I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it." Those gates don't move—they're defensive structures. This means the Church is meant to be on the offensive! We're not called to merely survive; we're called to advance.

God's Principles Are His Automations

Just as gravity works automatically, God's spiritual principles are fixed laws, not situational conveniences. The disciples feared lack of bread, but the truth was that lack was never even an option.

Think about it: Jesus had already multiplied food twice. The principle of provision was already in motion. Their survival mentality made them think they had to perform to be provided for, but God's provision was already set in motion.

The Power of Remembrance

"Do you not remember?" Jesus asked His disciples. Fear thrives in amnesia—forgetting who God is, what He has done, and who we are in Him. Faith, on the other hand, thrives in remembrance.

Every past miracle is a blueprint for future confidence. The disciples had seen Jesus provide. Their mistake was failing to connect past provision to present faith.

As Psalm 103:2 instructs us, "Forget not all His benefits." When we recall what God has already done, we break out of performance-based striving and step into faith-based authority.

Breaking Agreement with False Patterns

To truly renew our minds, we must break agreement with:

• False foundations: Incorrect thoughts about the Father and our place at His table

• False finish lines: Stopping points that were meant to be launch pads

• Corrupt thought patterns: Ideas shaped by the world's culture that war against the renewed mind

Remember this powerful truth: Every victory in the Kingdom is eternal, and every defeat is temporary. The disciples worried about a temporary problem (lack of bread) while walking with the eternal Bread of Life.

Moving Forward: From Performance to Presence

So how do we practically shift from a performance mentality to Kingdom thinking?

1. Identify your thought patterns. Where are you operating from fear rather than faith? Where have you been believing lies about God's character or your identity?

2. Remember God's faithfulness. Start a testimony journal. Document every provision, breakthrough, and answered prayer, no matter how small.

3. Renew your mind daily. Romans 12:2 tells us that transformation comes through the renewing of our minds. Spend time meditating on Scripture that affirms God's nature and your identity.

4. Rest in relationship, not results. Schedule regular times to simply be with God without an agenda or expectation of productivity.

5. Live from offensive faith. Remember that you're not just holding ground—you're advancing the Kingdom. Approach challenges with the confidence that you're already equipped with solutions.

The Invitation

God is healing thought patterns, shifting believers from a performance-driven mindset to a Kingdom-renewed perspective. He's inviting us into freedom from foreboding thoughts, generational strongholds, and limiting beliefs.

The question is: Will you accept the invitation? Will you let go of the exhausting cycle of performance and embrace the freedom of grace? Will you trade your fear of lack for confidence in His provision?

Remember, you're not called to merely survive—you're called to thrive. And that begins when you stop striving and start abiding in the One who is both the Provider and the Provision.

What mindset shifts have you experienced in your faith journey? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. And if this message resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need this word of encouragement today.

The Beauty of Beholding

It was February of 2023, I was standing in McKenna Chapel at Asbury, feeling the weight of God's presence, when He spoke something that still echoes in my spirit: "The next wave of this move of God will be healing." Not just physical healing, though we'll see that too, but a deep restoration of our ability to truly see Him.

You know, I've been fascinated lately with this concept of "beholding." It's more than just a casual glance or even dedicated Bible study time. The Hebrew word for "behold" carries this rich meaning of seeing with intelligence and experience – it's about gazing with such intention that what you're looking at transforms you.

Think about it like this: Have you ever tried to have a meaningful conversation while constantly checking your phone? It's impossible, right? That's because real connection requires focused attention. It's the same with God. Hurry, according to John Mark Comer, is the enemy of fascination. You will never gaze intently at something you're not fascinated with.

David got this. When he wrote "One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord" (Psalm 27:4), he wasn't talking about a casual church attendance. He was describing a life oriented around this single focal point – seeing God's beauty.

But here's what's been stirring in my spirit: We've often made this more complicated than it needs to be. We've turned worship into a performance and prayer into a checklist when really, both are simply about positioning ourselves to see Him clearly.

I remember reading about a young man praying in his barn during the Hebrides Revival. When interrupted, he quietly said, "Excuse me a little, I'm having an audience with the King." That's what I'm talking about – this kind of focused attention changes everything.

Here's the beautiful truth: When we behold Him, we begin to see ourselves as He sees us. Not through the lens of our failures or even our successes, but through the reality that we are co-seated with Christ in heavenly places. This isn't just theological theory – it's meant to be our daily experience.

Let me be practical for a moment. How do we cultivate this kind of seeing? Start by slowing down. I mean really slow down. Remember, God walks slowly because He is love. If He wasn't love, He would have gone much faster. Create space in your day – even if it's just 15 minutes – where your single focus is to gaze at His beauty through worship and His Word.

The trajectory of your gaze determines the position of your landing. If you're only looking horizontally, you'll miss the glory that's waiting to be revealed. But when you lift your eyes to behold Him, everything else finds its proper perspective.

As we step deeper into 2025, I believe God is inviting us into a deeper way of seeing. Not just seeing our circumstances differently, but seeing Him as He truly is. When we see Him clearly, we start to reflect on what we behold.

This isn't about striving harder or doing more. It's about positioning ourselves to see what He's already showing us. As you go through this week, remember: You become what you behold. What's capturing your gaze?

Until next time,

Ryan

P.S. If this stirred something in you, I'd love to hear about it. What are you seeing as you behold Him?

The Coffee Shop Revolution: Renewing Your Mind in 2025

The Coffee Shop Revolution: Renewing Your Mind in 2025

I'm sitting here in my favorite coffee shop, steam rising from my dark roast, watching people rush by outside. The contrast strikes me - their hurried pace against my intentional pause. It reminds me of something I've been wrestling with lately: how often we skim the surface when God's inviting us into the deep.

You know that feeling when you take that first sip of really good coffee? How it wakes up your senses and shifts your perspective? That's what I believe God's doing at this moment - He's inviting us to wake up to a whole new way of thinking.

Here's the thing: We've gotten pretty comfortable paddling in the shallows of our faith. We've installed these mental "governors" - like speed limiters on our spiritual lives. Maybe it's that old church hurt you haven't dealt with. Or those limiting beliefs about what God can do through you. We've gotten really good at explaining away the supernatural and wrapping our faith in neat, manageable packages.

But what if there's more?

The other day, I was reading about Ezekiel's river (stick with me here - this gets good). He starts in ankle-deep water, then moves to knee-deep, then waist-deep, until finally - he's in over his head. And isn't that just like God? He's not interested in our careful wading; He's inviting us to dive in completely.

Think about Eve in the garden for a second. Her stumbling block wasn't just about that fruit - it was about believing God was holding out on her. Sound familiar? How often do we calculate our giving instead of releasing it, measure our worship instead of abandoning to it, strategize our steps instead of yielding them?

Let me ask you something: What if faith really is spelled R-I-S-K? Not the reckless kind, but the kind that makes room for God to show up in ways our carefully constructed plans never could.

Here's what I'm learning (and yeah, it's messing with my neat little world): Real transformation isn't about trying harder - it's about thinking differently. It's about letting the Holy Spirit renew our minds until we see things from heaven's perspective.

You know what's wild? The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in us. Yet sometimes we're more shaped by our social media feeds than by this revolutionary reality.

So here's my challenge to you (and trust me, I'm preaching to myself here): What if we took off the governors? What if we let God take us deeper than our comfort zones, further than our five-year plans, higher than our human logic?

I'm not talking about being reckless. I'm talking about being revolutionary. About becoming what I like to call "cultural architects" - people who shape atmospheres because they think from heaven's perspective instead of earth's limitations.

Takes another sip of coffee

But I'll warn you - this kind of thinking will mess with you. It'll challenge your comfortable Christianity. It'll make you question those neat boxes you've put God in.

And maybe that's exactly what we need in 2025.
I've got more to say about this - about how to practically renew your mind and step into supernatural thinking. But for now, I'll leave you with this question: What would change in your world if you approached every situation with the mind of Christ rather than worldly wisdom?

Think about it. Pray about it. And maybe, just maybe, take that first step into deeper waters.

The coffee's getting cold, but this conversation's just heating up...

What's your next step into the deep? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Until next time,

Ryan S. Bain

P.S. If this stirred something in you, stay tuned. We're just getting started...

The Leavened Mind 3

Breaking Free: Transforming Our Minds

Have you ever watched bread dough rise? It's fascinating how one tiny packet of yeast can transform an entire batch of dough. Similarly, our thought patterns about God - whether true or false - have the power to transform our entire spiritual experience. As we step into 2025, it's time to examine these patterns and make room for something new.

The Hidden Cost of Circumstantial Christianity

Let's be honest - living by circumstances is exhausting. It's like being on a spiritual roller coaster, where your faith rises and falls with each turn of events. Many of us have fallen into what I call "performance-based Christianity," where we believe our standing with God depends on how well we're doing.

Think about it: How often do you catch yourself thinking:

- "If I just pray more, God will be pleased"

- "I need to earn His blessings"

- "I must perform better to be accepted"

Understanding the Leavened Mind

Your brain has a fascinating filtering system - think of it like a water purification system. The thalamus acts as the initial filter, deciding what information gets through and what gets blocked. Meanwhile, the amygdala works like a storage tank, collecting emotional memories and their associated feelings.

When these systems are operating under false beliefs about God, they're like a filter clogged with debris - everything gets distorted by past disappointments and fears rather than flowing freely with truth.

The Path Forward: From Performance to Presence

1. Recognize the Pattern

Remember how Jesus dealt with His disciples in Mark 8? They were obsessing about forgotten bread while sitting next to the Bread of Life! We often do the same - focusing on our lack while missing His presence.

2. Renew Your Filter

Just as you'd clean and replace old water filters, you can renew your mental filters. Start by:

- Identifying thoughts that don't align with God's character

- Replacing "I have to" with "I get to"

- Creating new neural pathways through consistent truth-focused thinking

3. Rest in Identity

Instead of striving for approval, anchor yourself in these truths:

- You are already accepted in Christ

- Your identity is secure, even when you fail

- God's blessings flow from His goodness, not your performance

Practical Steps for Transformation

1. Morning Mind Reset

Start each day declaring Kingdom truths over your life:

"I am fully loved and accepted in Christ. His presence is my portion."

2. Presence Practice

Schedule daily time to simply be with God - no agenda, no striving.

3. Truth Tracking

Keep a journal of God's faithfulness. When fear creeps in, review these testimonies.

The Power of New Pathways

Think of creating new thought patterns like forging a path through a forest. The first few times are challenging, but what was once difficult becomes natural with consistent use. Whenever you choose trust over fear, rest over striving, you create new neural pathways that align with heaven's perspective.

## Your Invitation to Freedom

Breaking free from performance-based thinking isn't a one-time event - it's a journey of consistent choices and renewed perspectives. But you don't have to navigate this alone.

As we step into 2025, what thoughts need to be transformed? What lies need to be replaced with truth? Don't let another year pass stuck in old patterns.

Remember: The King is near, and He's inviting you into a new way of thinking. Make room for Him today.

Kingdom Automation: When God's Principles Become Your Reality

Here is a question that has stopped me in my tracks: What if the very way I think is blocking the abundance that's already available?

Let me share something that revolutionized my understanding of Kingdom principles.

When Jesus Talked About Yeast

There's this fascinating moment in Mark 8 where Jesus and His disciples are in a boat. The disciples are freaking out about forgotten bread, and Jesus starts warning them about the "yeast of the Pharisees." Their response? They think He's criticizing them for forgetting lunch.

But here's what hits me: They had just witnessed Jesus multiply bread for thousands. Twice. Yet they're worried about a single meal. Why? Because they were operating on autopilot – but the wrong kind.

God's Principles are His Automation’s

Think about your smartphone for a minute. You don't have to tell it to check for new emails or update your apps. It's automated. The system just works.

God's Kingdom principles work the same way. They're not suggestions or good ideas – they're automated spiritual laws. Like gravity, they work whether you believe in them or not.

Here's what this means practically:

1. Provision Is Already Programmed

Remember when the children of Israel were leaving Egypt? Before they even felt hungry, God had already programmed manna into their future. The provision preceded the need.

This isn't just an Old Testament thing. When Jesus talked about seeking first the Kingdom, He wasn't making a suggestion. He was revealing a divine automation: Seek first = everything else added. It's coded into the Kingdom operating system.

2. Your Past Victories Are Future Programs

The disciples forgot about the multiplication of loaves, but Jesus didn't. Why did He bring it up? Because every miracle is more than a moment – it's a program being installed in your spiritual operating system.

That healing you received? Program installed.

That provision that showed up just in time? Program installed.

That breakthrough in your family? Program installed.

3. Breaking the Override

Here's where it gets interesting. Just like your phone has force-quit options, we often force-quit God's automation with our thinking. The disciples did it with bread. We do it with:

Financial fears overriding provision programs

- Health concerns overriding healing programs

- Past hurts overriding trust programs

Updating Your Spiritual Operating System

So how do we stop override mode and let God's automation’s run? Here's your practical upgrade path:

1. Identify Your Current Programs

- What automatic thoughts kick in when challenges arise?

- Which past victories have you forgotten?

- What Kingdom principles have you turned into optional features?

2. Install New Programs

Instead of just saying "I trust God," start declaring specific truths:

- "Provision precedes need in God's Kingdom"

- "My past miracles are prophecies of my future"

- "God's principles work automatically when I align with them"

3. Run System Maintenance

Just like your phone needs regular updates, your mind needs renewal:

- Daily meditation on Kingdom principles

- Regular remembrance of God's faithfulness

- Continuous alignment with Heaven's reality

The Upgrade You've Been Waiting For

Think about the disciples again. They were living in lack mentality while sitting next to unlimited supply. Why? Because they hadn't installed the right programs.

Jesus wasn't mad at them for forgetting bread. He was trying to upgrade their operating system. He wanted them to move from manual striving to divine automation.

The same upgrade is available to you.

When you understand that God's principles are His automation’s:

- You stop trying to make things happen

- You start aligning with what's already programmed

- You move from effort to expectation

Your Next Step

This week, instead of just trying harder, start noticing God's automated systems:

- Where is provision already programmed?

- What victory programs need reactivating?

- Which Kingdom principles are you treating as optional?

Remember: You're not just learning principles – you're activating automations that have been part of God's Kingdom from the beginning.

The Kingdom isn't just coming – it's already installed. 

Time to let it run.

Breaking Free from Leavened Thinking

Have you ever felt like you're walking in circles spiritually, wondering why true breakthrough seems so elusive? The answer isn't in striving harder or doing more—it's in shifting how you think. Transformation begins in the mind, and it's time to address the hidden barriers that keep us stuck in cycles of frustration.

The Hidden Battle: Transforming Mindsets

Mark 8 gives us an intriguing snapshot of Jesus teaching His disciples. As they worried about having no bread, Jesus issued a profound warning: "Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod" (Mark 8:15).

Why focus on leaven? Because even a little contamination in our thinking can infiltrate and reshape our spiritual outlook, keeping us bound to earthly limitations instead of heavenly realities.

Three Leavened Mindsets Blocking Breakthrough

In my 25 years of ministry, I've seen three recurring ways of thinking that block believers from experiencing the fullness of God's promises:

1. Natural Thinking Over Spiritual Revelation

The disciples interpreted Jesus' warning through their physical needs, missing the spiritual principle. How often do we do the same—filtering God's promises through what we see or lack, instead of what He has already declared?

Challenge: Are you interpreting your future through the lens of current circumstances rather than God's truth?

2. Performance-Based Faith

The Pharisees exemplified a mindset that turned worship into a checklist. This performance-based approach robs us of the joy and intimacy of relationship with God. It makes us feel like we have to "earn" His love, rather than resting in the finished work of Christ.

Truth to Embrace: The Lamb of God is perfect, complete, and unconditional (1 Peter 1:19). His sacrifice is more than enough. Stop striving, and start abiding.

3. Fear-Driven Decisions

Fear causes us to live with a survival mentality, reacting to challenges instead of stepping into the kingdom authority we've been given. It blinds us to the reality that we are seated with Christ in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6).

Faith Declaration: The spirit of fear is not your inheritance. You've been given a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

God's Principles Are His Automations:

Here's a life-changing truth: God's principles operate like spiritual laws. Just as gravity works without human permission, His kingdom ways function whether we recognize them or not. But too often, we let natural thinking override spiritual truths.

Think about the disciples—they panicked over bread even though they had just witnessed Jesus multiply loaves to feed thousands. How often do we do the same, forgetting His faithfulness in the face of new challenges?

Breaking Free: Practical Steps to Renew Your Mind

To experience supernatural breakthrough, we must address the corrupted thoughts that cloud our vision of God. Here's how:

1. Recognize the Leaven

- Examine Your Thoughts: Where have worldly influences shaped your view of God?

- Confront Fear: Where are you interpreting promises through past pain or disappointment?

- Challenge Misconceptions: Are your beliefs about God rooted in Scripture or shaped by tradition and human reasoning?

2. Remember His Faithfulness

- Recount His Goodness: Your past victories are not just memories—they are prophecies of what God will do again (Revelation 19:10).

- Speak Truth: Declare God's promises over your life, even when circumstances seem contrary (Proverbs 18:21).

3. Shift Your Perspective

- Focus on Your Identity: You are a child of God, empowered and equipped to walk in kingdom authority (Romans 8:15-17).

- Worship in Spirit and Truth: Let your worship flow not from how you feel, but from who God is (John 4:23-24).

An Invitation to Unleavened Living

Just as God commanded Israel to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread in Exodus 12, as a reminder of their deliverance from Egypt, He is calling us to remove the "leaven"—the corrupted thinking—that keeps us bound to worldly systems and limited mindsets.

When we embrace this transformation, we step into a life of:

- Supernatural Provision: Trusting God to meet every need

- Kingdom Authority: Living as heirs, not beggars

- Consistent Breakthrough: Experiencing His power in every area of life

The Bottom Line

The way you think about God is not just mental—it's foundational. It determines whether you experience breakthrough or remain stuck. The good news? The Spirit of Truth is ready to transform your mind if you'll invite Him in.

Action Step: Start by journaling your thoughts about God. Ask yourself, "Are these beliefs rooted in His Word or shaped by fear and disappointment?" Then, take time in prayer to surrender those areas to the Holy Spirit.

As your thinking aligns with God's truth, your life will align with His promises. Let's break free from leavened thinking and step into the abundant life Jesus has already made available to us.

Depth and Maturity

Beyond Surface Christianity: Accessing the Deep Things of God

Have you ever felt like there must be more to your spiritual journey? Like you're scratching the surface of something deeper, but not quite breaking through? You're not alone. Many believers find themselves caught in what I call the "shallow waters" of faith - knowing there's an ocean of depth available, but unsure how to navigate into it.

The Limitation of Human Understanding

Here's a striking reality from 1 Corinthians 2: Even the disciples, standing face-to-face with Jesus Himself, couldn't fully grasp certain truths without the Holy Spirit's involvement. Think about that for a moment. These were people who walked with Jesus, ate with Him, witnessed His miracles - yet Jesus told them, "There is so much more I would like to say to you, but it's more than you can grasp at this moment."

Why? Because spiritual reality requires spiritual perception.

Breaking Free from the DIY Trap

One of the biggest obstacles to spiritual depth is what I call the "DIY spirituality" mindset. It's the "at least I put my time in" or "I'll make up for it next time" approach to our relationship with God. We've elevated human intellect and effort above spiritual communion, trying to understand divine mysteries through natural means.

But here's the truth: The things of God are impossible to decode with mere human thinking.

The Spirit: Our Divine Decoder

Think of it this way: In modern technology, it would be impossible to access information from a source that isn't compatible with your device without a decoder. The Holy Spirit is our divine decoder, making heavenly realities accessible to our human understanding.

The Spirit:

- Searches the deep things of God

- Reveals Jesus' heart and nature

- Makes spiritual truth experiential

- Connects heaven's reality with our daily life

Moving Beyond Surface-Level Christianity

True spiritual maturity isn't about:

- How long you've been a Christian

- How many Bible verses you can quote

- How many church services you attend

Instead, it's displayed in:

- Consistent application of seemingly insignificant things

- Deep, personal knowledge of God

- Spirit-led understanding and wisdom

The Path to Deeper Waters

So how do we move into these deeper waters? Here are three key practices:

1. Meditation in the Word

Not just reading, but allowing the Spirit to illuminate truth and make it real in your life.

2. Direct Communication with the Holy Spirit

Moving beyond formal prayers to genuine dialogue and relationship.

3. Praying in the Spirit**

Engaging in spiritual communion that goes beyond natural understanding.

The Power of Spirit-Led Understanding

When we begin to engage with the Holy Spirit this way, something remarkable happens. We start to possess "the mind of Christ" - seeing situations from heaven's perspective rather than earth's limitations. Our understanding shifts from theoretical to experiential, from surface-level to deeply transformative.

An Invitation to Depth

The invitation stands before each of us: Will we remain content with surface-level Christianity, or will we accept the Spirit's invitation to explore the depths? The deep things of God are not reserved for a special few - they're available to all who are willing to engage with the Holy Spirit in genuine relationship.

The question isn't whether these depths are available. The question is: Are we willing to move beyond our comfortable shallows into the deep waters of Spirit-led living?

Remember, "The Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God." He's waiting to reveal them to you.

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What area of your spiritual life needs to move from surface-level to Spirit-led depth? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.*

Making Room for the King: A Divine Shift in 2025

Have you ever felt like you're on the verge of something big? Like there's a shift coming that you can't quite put your finger on? Well, as we step into the Hebrew year 5785 and this New Year 2025, there's a powerful message of transformation in the air, and I want to share what this could mean for all of us.

The Hidden Message in Numbers

In Hebrew tradition, numbers tell stories, and 5785 is speaking volumes. Imagine each number as a letter whispering secrets about what's coming:

The number 5 (represented by the Hebrew letter Hey) is like an open window, letting in fresh divine revelation. Add to that the number 80 (Pey), which represents the power of our words and declarations. Together, they're painting a picture of a year where our words carry extra weight and grace flows more freely than ever.

A Tale of Two Worlds: The Exodus Connection

This reminded me of an ancient story that feels surprisingly relevant today. Remember the Exodus? Right in the middle of Egypt's darkest hour, something remarkable happened. While chaos swirled around them, God's people experienced supernatural peace. The Bible tells us it was so quiet among them that "not even a dog would bark" (Exodus 11:7).

Here's the kicker: it wasn't just about survival. In that same moment, the Israelites were instructed to ask their Egyptian neighbors for silver and gold. Talk about divine favor in unexpected places! This story isn't just history – it's a blueprint for what we might see in our own time.

The King-Priest Anointing: Your New Identity

But here's where it gets personal. This year carries what's being called a "king-priest anointing." Think King David, Moses, and Jesus – leadership with a spiritual edge. It's not about wearing a crown or religious robes; it's about carrying authority with grace in your everyday life.

What does this mean for you? Imagine bringing heaven's perspective to your workplace, your family, your creative projects. It's about leading with wisdom while staying deeply connected to divine guidance.

The Heart of Worship: More Than a Sunday Thing

"Make room for the King." This phrase keeps echoing through my spirit, and it's challenging how we think about worship. Here's a thought that stopped me in my tracks: "If your worship is based on how you feel, who is on the throne?"

Let's be honest – how many of us struggle to maintain consistent prayer and worship? The simple truth is we find it difficult because we don't practice it enough. It's like trying to run a marathon without training. But here's the beautiful part: true worship isn't about performance. It's about pouring out our hearts like Mary with her alabaster flask, creating an atmosphere that changes not just us but everything around us.

The Abundance Factor: Pure Motives, Pure Provision

Now, let's talk about abundance. But before you roll your eyes thinking this is another prosperity message, hear me out. The kind of abundance God's talking about for this season comes with a purification process. It's not about getting more stuff; it's about having pure motives refined in the fire of His presence.

Remember Ecclesiastes 2:24-26? It talks about God giving wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please Him. The wealth transfer mentioned isn't about getting rich quick; it's about resources flowing to those whose hearts are aligned with divine purposes.

Your Personal Action Plan

So how do we step into this season? Here's what I believe we need to focus on:

1. Start a worship revolution in your personal life. Set aside dedicated time for prayer and worship, even if it's just 15 minutes a day.

2. Watch your words. Remember, this is a year where declarations matter. Speak life, speak promise, speak purpose.

3. Examine your priorities. What's really getting your best time and attention? Remember: "Whatever has your affection is what ultimately gets your worship."

4. Position yourself for provision. Not by chasing things, but by serving faithfully where you are with pure motives.

5. Expect distinction. Like the Israelites in Egypt, prepare for God to make a clear difference in your life.

The Bottom Line

This isn't just another year. 5785/2025 carries a unique invitation to step into a new level of authority, abundance, and authentic worship. But here's the key: it all starts with making room for the King.

What area of your life needs to make more room for divine presence? What would change if you approached this year expecting not just survival, but supernatural favor and provision?

Remember, true transformation doesn't happen by accident. It happens when we intentionally align ourselves with heaven's agenda. As we step into this significant season, let's do it with expectancy, pure hearts, and a willingness to be changed from the inside out.

Are you ready to make room for the King?

Scriptures For Study

* Exodus 11-12 (The Passover narrative)

* Psalm 91:9-16 (Divine protection)

* Luke 10:19 (Spiritual authority)

* 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (God's faithfulness)

* Ecclesiastes 2:24-26 (Divine provision)

Alignment

Last August I had my second precious baby boy. It was a beautiful birth, but I, unfortunately, developed severe sciatica afterward as a result. I was completely immobile for two days and continue to deal with the lasting effects of pain and numbness seven months later. I regularly go to the chiropractor for adjustments due to the misalignment of my spine. After looking at my x-rays during my 6-month treatment review, my chiropractor told me that my spine isn’t severely out of alignment. That came as a surprise to me because of the amount of pain I am in daily. This minor misalignment is wreaking havoc on my body. While I was sharing this information with my husband and discussing additional treatment options, I felt the Lord speak to my heart about making certain adjustments and coming into alignment in all areas of my life because He’s about to do a new thing.

As I was meditating on this word, I felt as though it wasn’t just for myself, but for the Church. We must come into alignment— mind, body, and spirit. We are being positioned for a significant move of God. He is doing a new thing. Some of our old habits, mindsets and even actions won’t be beneficial and may even be detrimental to what He wants to do. The Church needs to make necessary adjustments to come into alignment so we can be good stewards of what He wants to do in us and through us.

Thinking back on the first few months of 2020, I believe alignment is an important facet we’ve been focused on here at Awakening Church. In the first 3 months of the year, we’ve done 2 fasts. And that’s what fasts are all about: aligning ourselves with the word and will of God — positioning our hearts and minds toward God.

I believe the word fast Awakening completed at the beginning of the month was a significant part of coming into alignment. We fasted words to align our minds in a very practical way, to His thoughts and not our own. Words become worlds and when we make adjustments to our negative thought patterns and speech, we align our hearts and minds with heaven’s perspective. And when this happens, we will see change — change in our families, jobs, and city. We have the ability to carry the Kingdom everywhere we go and make a real, sustainable impact. To do this, we must adjust our misalignments.

The interesting thing about alignment is that you don’t have to be majorly out of alignment to be severely off the mark. I recently got a new vehicle that has a lane departure warning system that notifies if I am veering from the center of my lane. Even a small distraction can cause a driver to begin to veer slightly off course. A slight misalignment can cause a huge accident if it’s not adjusted. As the Body of Christ during this critical time, we can’t afford to be distracted, to be out of alignment.

I encourage you to spend time in prayer asking Holy Spirit if there’s anything out of alignment in your life. What adjustments can be made? I pray that as you make these small adjustments it will bring you into alignment with the Father’s heart, preparing you to be an active, bold participant in this next move of God.

-Kristin Singogo

Be Encouraged

As Christ-followers, children of God, we are called to be peculiar people.  In fact, 1 Peter 2:9 tells us “you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that you should show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light”.  What does peculiar mean? Merriam-Webster dictionary defines it as “characteristic of only one person, group, or thing: distinctive, special identity; different from the usual or normal: particular, unusual, uncommon, unique. Further, Peculiar comes from Latin peculiaris, an adjective meaning "privately owned".  Again, being peculiar is part of the identity of the devoted follower of Jesus (not saying to be weird for the sake of being weird). 

As I am sure everyone knows by now, the world seems to be shaken with panic, fear and turmoil.  Human nature is predisposed to display in times of crisis these different reactions. And as one who is finishing up my degree in crisis counseling, I understand, criticism of those who may be experiencing these reactions isn’t the appropriate or even Biblical response from those who follow Christ.  But what do we have to offer? What is the chosen, peculiar response for those who are in Christ Jesus? Well, let’s look back at the verse from 1 Peter. Clearly, the first and most important implication of the verse is that we are chosen to “show forth the praises of Him”.  We must point the world to the Lord…How? By praising and exalting Him always. “I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are helpless take heart. Come, let us tell (the world) of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together” (Psalms 34:1-3).  In a time of crisis, to be in a state of praise unto our God probably would seem peculiar to the world; and yet, it is supernaturally empowered to affect atmospheres to help us and others be strengthened and encouraged. 

Next, the world is in darkness.  They can’t find their way. They are confused and fearful…most not even fully realizing this condition.  But God has called us out of darkness, into His light. Jesus speaking….”I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).  Additionally, the scriptures tell us “you are the light that gives light to the world. A city that is built on a hill cannot be hidden. And people don’t hide a light under a bowl. They put it on a lampstand so the light shines for all the people in the house.  In the same way, you should be a light for other people. Live so that they will see the good things you do and will praise your Father in heaven” (Matt 5:14-16).  Jesus is the light of the world, and as His family, we are chosen to be the light in the darkness of the world.  What do the features of His light look like? What do we have to offer?

 First, “In His name will be the hope of all the world” (Matt 12:21).  Confidently, pointing people to Jesus, is where we all find hope.  Hope is what anchors our souls, provides equilibrium and stability (Heb. 6:19) ….and He is that hope!!  Now, being hopeful, in times of crisis may seem odd, but remember we are called to be peculiar…distinctive.  We hope not in the things of the world, but in Him and His redeeming love.  Second, we operate in faith….in how we talk, act and carry on with our lives.  Again, Jesus speaking saying” have faith in God…whenever you pray believe (that He hears us)” (Mark 11:22). The Bible also declares “for by grace you have been saved through faith” (Eph. 2:8).  Further, “for nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). Living this kind of faith-filled life is peculiar, but we are chosen for this. Next, His light looks like love.  John 13:25 states “by this all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another.” And yes, show strangers love (Heb. 13:2).  The propensity of human nature is to ultimately care only for ones’ self.  And yet, we are called to be peculiar and love as He has loved us (John 13:34).  We have the opportunity to show love in different ways, through acts of service, conversations of hope and being available to pray with those who are hurting.  God works mightily through love (John 3:16) and love is the greatest of all. In this current crisis event, God has chosen us for such a time as this, to represent Him as His family to a world in suffering and to be set apart as a peculiar people.  To be sure, this is what we were created for. 

Other words of advice are……use wisdom.  He gives us the spirit of wisdom (Eph. 1:17) and wisdom is essential for the believer (Prov. 4:7).  Let the Holy Spirit guide us in all that we do and say.  Faith and pragmatism are not mutually exclusive.  As Proverbs says... we should take wise steps in times of danger. But there is no place for fear and must guard against being led by it, knowing that perfect love drives out all fear (1 John 4:18).  However, stay humble…realizing that people’s faith levels are in different places.

God is at work; He is never absent or away from the scene.  He is our ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalms 46:1).  We always trust Him in all things, that He loves us and is working for our good……no matter how things may look.  For we walk by faith and not by sight (2 Cor. 5:7). Let us encourage one another, love one another, as I know that so many are already doing…… and be the chosen, peculiar people that He has called us to be.  Finally, remember that from the Latin, peculiar means to be “privately-owned”? Be encouraged through the knowledge of what 1 Cor. 6:19-20 says “do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price”.  That price was the blood and sacrifice of the Lamb, slain from the foundation of the world, to redeem us and make us a part of His family.  This is the story of God. Share this with the world…. there is hope in the redeeming blood of Jesus to bring us back to the Father. This is what we have to offer.  Praying for everyone and trusting in the One True Living God!!  

Blessings!

-Kathy Mullins 

I Feel...

Joy, sadness, anger, fear, and disgust. For some people, what may come to mind are cute little cartoon characters. For others, you may be feeling a bit squeamish as you continued through the list. These are the five emotions we all experience, and when we are in the middle of some of them they are certainly less than a Disney-esque image. And when these more difficult emotions arise, it can be challenging to bring them to the surface and process them in a community. 

Honestly, ask yourself: when someone is super angry or has been facing an ongoing sadness for months how do you process it? This past year I watched a lot of people within my church family face difficult times in their lives... It’s these times that can either bring people together or tear them apart.

A few years ago, my favorite passage in the Bible was Psalm 77. It begins like this:  “I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted.” The next seven verses continue on in this manner wrapping up with, “Has God forgotten to be merciful? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?” 

Checking in again, how do you feel listening to those verses? For some people, it may sound a bit depressing. For others, you may be saying, “I’ve definitely been there.” Or maybe you are there! For people who aren’t there, as much as you want to listen, sometimes it can be difficult to not squirm under the weight of the emotion and what do we do when our own discomfort is aroused? We want to see a person’s pain end. We can end up commiserating with them or we can rush to bring the solution. How does this help them? How do we learn to hold the tension between valuing someone’s emotion while still holding hope?  

Clearly there is a place for pain. The psalms are littered with iterations on the subject.  Scripture tells us repeatedly in this life we will have trouble (Jn. 16:33). So why is it so difficult to be open with that pain we carry? Pain and sadness often feel like very isolating emotions. 

A few years ago, I began to venture through scripture asking the question of how we as a community can better love people in the midst of pain. It led me to look at my life experiences to see the different things I’ve been told while in pain. I’ve had recommended to me more than once, a passage from Ezekiel 37. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s the one where Ezekiel sees a valley of dry bones and God tells him to speak to them and they are made into an army that comes to life. Most of the time people say, you’ve got to speak to your situation in order to see it change. Yet when I looked back at this passage, after this vision, God gives some clear instructions and then begins to explain what it means. He says, “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.’”  

This vision, this call to speak to the dry bones was the result of the people crying to God and essentially saying that life has lost hope for them. I wonder if nothing had been cried out if this vision would have ever occurred? Science now shows that emotions are the first thing our brain experiences, before thought or action. If we never find the space to vocalize what we feel, how can God bring the healing we need? Sure, he can hear our thoughts and He knows our hearts, but there is something about vocalizing what we are feeling.   

God, I believe, will often use community to facilitate the healing process. It’s why it is so important for us to be safe people: non-judgemental, supportive, and empathetic. I can say I’ve seen a lot of amazing people learning to create such spaces, but I more so write because we can all improve in this. As someone pursuing a career in counseling, there are still moments when I have to remind myself of this- how do I posture myself to listen and to support someone in the midst of their pain or anger.  

So here are some practical tips on creating a safe environment in the faith community. 

1. When someone is first sharing with you, your main role is to listen. There will be time to problem solve, and add commentary later. Most of the time, if someone is choosing to share with you, it’s because they trust you’ll hear them out. It can be tempting to want to sympathize by sharing your own story about what’s happened or what you’re going through, but when someone is sad or angry they often need a place to be heard. Hold the commentary. In relationships, there will certainly be time for you to share as well. 

2. Ask if they want to problem-solve or just share. This may be a close follow up once the conversation begins. If you’re busy trying to figure out what they need to do, it’s going to be difficult to be present enough to empathize. 

3. Ask Holy Spirit for guidance.  A lot of the time we can want to rush in with an idea of how a conversation should go. 

 In Acts, the early church shared everything. Their physical needs were met but there is also a strong relational component I see as well being at play. Going back to the elusive film I cited earlier, the bulk of the film sadness is seen as doing something wrong. When the realization is made that sadness actually brings people together and brings relief to the pain. It’s a great picture of what the church is called to be: a place where the burdens and pains of life become lighter.

-Alyssa Clary

The Trust Fall

When I was a teenager my youth group went away for a weekend retreat to a place called Prayer Mountain in KY. We were excited to go and hang out with friends and do pranks, all of the normal teenage stuff. We actually had the worst shaving cream/vaseline battle of all time. It took me almost a week to get all of the vaseline out of my hair. It was wild! 

The other thing I distinctly remember is a youth pastor named Dusty Wilson that came to speak to our group. He came to talk to us about trust. Looking back as my time as a Youth Pastor, I realize that trust is an issue at an early age. We learn concepts and coping skills around trusting and not trusting at a very young age. As a matter of fact, to have the trust of another person is a huge deal. So Dusty was hitting the nail on the head speaking to us about trust. It was very impactful! 

However, as impactful as it was I honestly do not remember a ton of what he said. LOL! I know, I know...how can it be so impactful but me not remember what he said? Well, it was so impactful because I remember what he did. Have you ever heard of a “trust fall”? At that point in my life, I had not. Dusty positioned us in 2 lines across from each other but facing one another. Our arms were staggered with the person across from us having an arm between our arms. It was like that all the way down the line. Next, Dusty who was not a super thin guy stands on a chair and turns his back to us. I remember thinking to myself, “there is no way he is going to trust a bunch of teens to catch him”. I thought “I know these guys and girls and there is no way I would trust them to catch me”. 

As I looked back on that night I realized that trust was (maybe still is) a major issue for a lot of people including me. As an adult now married with four amazing kids I see where trust can be super delicate and if broken very difficult to piece back together. The thing that jumps out to me as I look over my life is that in moments where trust has been broken, abused or just misunderstood, inevitably it causes an unhealthy introspection to take place. I know that may not make sense. If someone else breaks my trust, why would I look at myself as the issue? The reason is that when I can’t trust someone else I place all of the weight, good or bad on my shoulders. I grew up around people who would say as a badge of honor “I don’t trust anyone but me!”. So, that became the way of life. You learn what you live. 

What happened, was that thought process pushed me away from community and the belief that people deserved the benefit of the doubt. I also began to believe that if something was going to get done then I had to do it. After all, I can’t trust anyone but me. This was totally unhealthy. When it would go wrong it was all my fault, when it would go right it was never good enough. It was a tragic cycle connected to trust or the lack thereof. It even affected the way I approached Yahweh…

I was meditating on the life of Abraham the other day and this question came to me. What kind of trust did Abraham have in Yahweh to be willing to lose both of his sons? I won’t take time to expound on the whole story. You can find it in Genesis chapters 21 and 22. The synopsis is this...Abraham is really old but Yahweh has promised that he would have an heir to carry on his legacy but his wife was barren. After a bad decision to try and make the promise come to pass in his own power Abraham has a son with a servant girl named Hagar. The son’s name was Ishmael. Some years after the birth of Ishmael, Sarah, Abraham’s wife gives birth to Isaac the promised one. Here is where trust comes in. Abraham has to send Ishmael away forever because he was not the promised one. He was his son, however. 

I can’t imagine what Abraham felt. This boy who carries my name looks like me and is my flesh and blood has to leave and I may never see him again. What is so crazy to me is that God confirms this as the right decision. So Abraham has to send Ishmael away because Yahweh said it was the right thing to do. 

Let me just say I stopped trying to make sense of some of this stuff a long time ago. What I know is that God’s ways are not my ways and His thoughts are higher than my thoughts. During this time Yahweh was forming His people and the times were different. The other thing I know is that Abraham felt the pain of sending His son away because we are told that in the bible. 

What happens next is beyond my comprehension. In chapter 22 of Genesis God asks Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac. This is a game-changer because Isaac IS the promised one. Again I have no good answer as to why God would ask this, but He did. What’s more, Abraham said yes to the request from Yahweh. What kind of trust did Abraham have in Yahweh to be willing to lose both of his sons? Better yet what kind of encounters did Abraham have with Yahweh to produce that kind of trust. It is truly remarkable to think about. One New Testament writer said in Hebrews 11:19 the Passion translation “Abraham’s faith made it logical to him that God could raise Isaac from the dead…”! In other words, Abraham’s Faith/Trust in Yahweh made what was seemingly illogical totally logical. That blows my mind. What was Abraham’s relationship with Yahweh like to produce that kind of trust?

Here is what I am learning and absolutely do not have completely figured out: 

1. Yahweh is well acquainted with me (my dreams, my hopes, fears, and my level of faith/trust)

2. My dreams do not scare Him

3. Yahweh is completely trustworthy 

4. I need to have good self-awareness 

5. I must trust someone MORE than I trust myself

I am not capable of holding the weight of what Yahweh wants to do in and through me alone. I have to trust and be vulnerable even when it is uncomfortable. A friend of mine received a word for 2020...If you will embrace being uncomfortable with God you will be unstoppable!!!

Yahweh,  give me the grace to have continual encounters with you where the seemingly illogical becomes totally logical! 

By the way, Dusty crossed his arms closed his eyes and fell right into our arms. Guess what? We caught him! That was the night I will forever remember as the trust fall

-Ryan S. Bain