You do not walk alone…

29 Wednesday May 2013

Posted by in Perseverance, Relationship with GOD, Renewing of your mind, Surrender

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the fogOk, so I must admit that over the course of several months I have struggled with symptoms of PMS or possibly even perimenopause. (Stick with me fellas. I promise this blog post will minister to you as well.) Whatever it is, however you coin it, it is a very difficult time of the month for me. For about 3-5 days I become withdrawn, irritable, weepy and anxious. I feel very overwhelmed and focus on what’s not going right in my life. This was becoming quite bad – to the point where my mother thought I was going crazy and my ob/gyn suggested anti-depressants. But recently I discussed this with a friend and she suggested an herb called Black Cohosh. And although it has worked wonders by significantly decreasing the intensity and duration of the symptoms every month I still ‘walk through a fog’.

In this life we all have moments when we ‘walk through a fog’. These are times when life just doesn’t seem to turn out the way we’d hoped. And we experience periods of loneliness, disappointment, mourning, or heartache. It’s a time when we feel that we are all alone, no one understands us and GOD seems far away. These moments make it difficult for us to see what lies ahead because our view of life is so greatly distorted. And it is wise that we do not make any snap decisions because we are apt to make them based solely on emotion.

As we walk through the fog there’s a tendency to question GOD’s promises, sovereignty, and faithfulness. It may even feel like you’re going a little crazy and what you see around you is contrary to everything you are believing, hoping and trusting GOD for. But inside of these fog walks are opportunities for GOD to build, strengthen and prepare you for the amazing future He predestined just for you. So while walking through the fog rehearse the promises of GOD, recall the times He’s navigated you through previous fog walks and commit to trust Him despite your circumstances. Your circumstances may change but GOD Almighty won’t. These walks are not meant to harm you. I promise. In fact, if you’d let Him have His way He promises to even bless you – bless you with deeper faith, a closer walk with GOD, fresh anointing, a strong testimony, and a chance to experience Him like you never had before. Each walk through the fog promises positive change when we put our faith in His wisdom, power and love.

Where are you right now, my friend? Are you walking in, through or out of a fog? What’s causing you to focus on your circumstances or to become irritable, anxious, and overwhelmed? Is it weariness from waiting on a promise not yet manifested? Is a closed door with no open door in sight? Could it be that you just received some bad news that has shaken your world? Or perhaps it’s that you feel stuck in a season and desperately hoping for change? Whatever your fog represents know that GOD is with you and that He has never, nor will He ever leave. You can put all of your hope in the LORD (Psalm 43:5).

Fog walks can be very painful. Trust me. I know. And many ask during this time, “Where is GOD?” Well, He is right beside you. He’s making sure that you will not be overtaken. He’s ordering your steps (Psalm 37:23). He’s already gone before you to make the crooked way straight (Deuteronomy 31:8). I once heard that ‘when you can’t trace GOD’s hand, trust His heart.’ You see, GOD’s love for you compels Him to protect, provide and guide you, even when it doesn’t look like it (Exodus 14:14, Jeremiah 51:36). It’s a love so strong that it rushes in to be everything you need before you even realize you needed it (Jeremiah 31:3). It’s a love that never takes an eye off of you or loses it’s grip on you (Psalm 21:5, Psalm 121:8). He has a purpose and a plan for every fog walk. And He is always mindful of you. Talk to Him. Tell Him how much it hurts. Let the tears flow. He’s always excited to hear from you. Although it may seem like everything is turning upside down GOD is standing boldly and lovingly beside you. He’s there, my friend and He’s not going anywhere. Be comforted for you do not walk alone.

I truly hope this message blesses you. As you place your trust in GOD, I see blessings and favor raining down on you. You have no idea how excited I am for all that GOD has in store for you when your faith is in Him, and Him alone!

How to make GOD smile…

21 Tuesday May 2013

Posted by in Faith, Relationship with GOD, Surrender

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GOD handing me His giftI remember like it was yesterday. It was Noah’s third Christmas and she’d wanted a doll house. But, not just any doll house, my friend. This doll house had all the bells and whistles: 3 ft tall, tri-story, pink, of course with beautiful, ornate furnishings. When she woke up that Christmas morning the smile on her face was priceless. In her amazement she was only able to utter five sweet words: “Is that really for me?” This beautiful memory has been indelibly etched into my brain and on my heart. I believe that GOD has placed in us a joy in receiving gifts because He too delights in receiving them. But, what can we offer GOD Almighty that He doesn’t already have? I mean, what do you offer Someone who already owns everything (Psalm 24:1)? Well, my friend GOD desires your time and your surrender.

The Bible says that when you delight yourself in the LORD by spending time with Him and seeking His face He will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). So, it is good to go before the LORD with your deeply held hopes, dreams and ideal future. While in prayer one day I did just that. I went before the LORD and I presented to Him my ideal future. I mean I really did it big. Tears ran down my face as I imagined a life with every good thing I’d ever wanted. It was an extraordinary experience, my friend. But then something happened. Instead of holding this ‘life’ dear to my heart, I imagined putting all of these hopes and dreams into a huge box. I wrapped it beautifully with a big red bow and I offered it to GOD as my gift to Him. He smiled, my friend. I know He did! I made GOD smile. My gift to GOD was the surrendering of my hopes, dreams and future. In surrendering I gave it to Him to do as He saw fit. If this was the life He desired for me… Good. If it was not… Great because I trust that in His love and wisdom He’s got something much better!

If you’d like to make GOD smile set time aside, my friend to sit alone in His presence. Talk to Him about your day and then think of all of your hopes, dreams and ideal future. I mean dream big! After all, this is GOD. Let Him fill your heart and mind with His great vastness. Relax and enjoy this time with Him. Then place it all in a box. And with a pure heart give it over to Him. Surrender it all to Him.

Surrendering requires great faith. It means to remove all of your control over it and releasing preconceived ideas on how things will pan out. It is to give it to GOD trusting that He has your best interest at heart, even if you don’t get everything you want. But surrender also means that you no longer have to worry about how things will work because you have just given full control over to the King of kings and Lord of lords. Surrendering is not easy, my friend so let GOD prepare your heart for it and when you’re ready – Give it up and over to Him. He will smile! He will draw close to you! And the GOD who keeps the universe intact with perfect precision will rejoice over you (Zephaniah 3:17).

So, my friend what does your dream future look like? Is there deliverance from strife, family problems and debt? Is it for a promotion at work, a thriving ministry, or the restoration of a relationship? Could it be the opportunity to spend more time with your family or return to school? Perhaps, it’s to settle down, get married and have children. Whatever your hopes, dreams and future consist of GOD desires to see that you receive His very best, which greatly surpasses our best. He is a GOD that blesses His children. The Bible says that the LORD bestows favor and honor. And no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11). He is a faithful GOD who rewards those who put their trust in Him (Psalm 9:10). If you would surrender your future to Him He will order your steps (Psalm 37:23). He will make every single situation turn out for your good (Romans 8:28). He will make sure that His will is done on earth as it is in Heaven (Matthew 6:10). And you’ll come to see that in return He will see to it that you receive the gifts of peace, purpose, joy, and a future that exceeds your expectations. So humble yourself before Him today and let the Creator of all that is seen and unseen map out your life. You will not regret it. I promise.

I truly hope this message blesses you. I see you dreaming big and surrendering it all over to GOD. And because of your faith I see that He is setting the stage for the unfolding of the most beautiful future that only He can offer. I’m beyond excited for you, my friend. I really am.

Earthquake shift…

13 Monday May 2013

Posted by in Faith, Relationship with GOD, Surrender

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earthquake pictureThe other day a friend of mine wrote on his Facebook page that ‘sometimes you’ve got to lose to gain.’ Yeah, well we’ve all heard or read that somewhere before but it really hits home when you’re currently in the midst of experiencing it. And everyone has at one point or another experienced it. Recently, I received some unexpected news and I must admit that it shook my world for a few hours. Questions of What, Where, Who, and the inevitable Why quickly raced through my brain. But I have learned to make what I call “earthquake shifts.”

As we know earthquakes are unexpected, unpredictable, disruptive and scary. And they can range anywhere between 1 and 10 on the Earthquake Richter Scale depending on their severity and potential damage they may cause. And so it is with our lives. At times, we experience situations or circumstances that range from annoyances and minor disruptions to level 10 life-changing experiences that instill fear and leave us questioning our ability to recover. Earthquakes are inevitable, but shifts require work.

To shift is to change our perspective on the situation. It is to voluntarily transition from seeing things through our limited, natural vision to seeing them through the eyes of GOD. Shifting often doesn’t come easy because it’s quite unnatural. It is unnatural to see loss as gain. And at times shifting may require that we forgive the unforgivable. Shifting requires faith that despite what we see GOD is in control (Psalm 24:1), that He has a future plan on the other side of our ‘earthquake’ (Jeremiah 29:11) and that He is capable of working everything out for our good (Romans 8:28). Shifts are necessary for our mental, emotional and spiritual well being. Because without shifting we get stuck and are left to re-experience the earthquakes time and time again, with no Heavenly support. This is painful and unnecessary. So, shifting is a choice to surrender. Surrender requires faith. And faith, my friend pleases GOD (Hebrews 11:6).

We are so blessed to have a Savior who is touched by our infirmities as He, Himself has experienced what can be seen as an ‘earthquake shift.’ In the book of Luke it is written that while in the garden of Gethsemane Jesus ‘being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like drops of blood falling down to the ground.’ It weighed so heavily on His heart that He was about to experience separation from GOD (Psalm 22:1, Matthew 27:46), undergo excruciating physical pain (Isaiah 52:14), and receive rejection, hatred and ridicule from those He was so madly in love with (John 1:11). But in His wisdom, He made a shift and surrendered it all to His Father as He said, “Not My will but Your will be done.” It was at that moment that He no longer focused on the earthquake but shifted His focus on what was on the other side of the earthquake (our salvation). (Luke 22:39-46) So, to shift is to focus forward towards the future. And as you see GOD knows, my friend how painful life earthquakes can be. He wants you to surrender that pain to Him today. He wants to show you the extraordinary future He has ahead of you.

So, my friend what earthquakes are you in need of shifting? A layoff, 30 days to vacate, or an unexpected break-up? Perhaps it’s that something you desperately hoped for fell apart? Or could it be the loss of a loved one or unfavorable news from the doctor? Whatever range your earthquake falls, the Holy Spirit is the Comforter and He longs to soothe and repair all of the damage the earthquake’s caused. Shifts can only come by allowing GOD to work through you. Are you ready to surrender the fear, anger, anxiety and hopelessness? Are you willing to make the shift to seeing things through the eyes of GOD? He is waiting to restore your hope in the future. He is ready to replace your fear with faith. And He is able to give you indescribable peace. But you must go before Him in prayer and ask Him to help you make the shift from relying on your own wisdom and strength to leaning on His everlasting love, wisdom, power, and might. It is then that He can make beauty of your ashes (Isaiah 61:3).

I truly hope this message blesses you. I see you allowing GOD to restore and repair any and all damage that life’s earthquakes may have caused. I see you surrendering all the broken pieces to Him and in return GOD showing you the blessings on the other side. And boy am I ever so excited for you!

So, what’s on the other side of the door for you?

05 Sunday May 2013

Posted by in Faith, Protection, Surrender

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scared to open doorThe other day I met with a new student at work. She is one of my many children that has endured so very much in her sweet young 16 years. She has been in foster care since birth, which has resulted in multiple home and school transitions. My heart softens to hear their stories and I am always amazed at their resilience.

While she and I were sitting in my office we heard a loud noise at the door. It wasn’t a knocking but a very strong shaking. We both looked and said that it was strange, or “kinda spooky” as she put it. It happened again, then again and again. In my desire to protect her I told her, “Don’t be afraid. You’re with me and I’ll protect you.” She stepped aside. A fearlessness had risen inside of me and I was ready to go to battle for her if something broke down the door. I honestly felt that whatever was on the other side of that door would have to get through me to get to her.

This, my friend is what happens with GOD. His love for you is infinite, unconditional, compassionate and sacrificial. And this boundless love for you compels Him to defend, protect and fight for you. He boldly stands between you and whatever is ‘at the door’ causing you to worry or live in fear and anxiety. And when you decide to step aside by surrendering the circumstance to Him you give Him permission and room to move mightily on your behalf. He promises to fight for you (Exodus 14:14). He promises to defend you (Jeremiah 51:36). You are a child of GOD. And that means that anything, and I do mean anything, on the other side of that door is nothing compared to the GOD you serve. He is more than able to remove every obstacle standing before you.

At times GOD may not immediately stop what’s at the door by changing your circumstances but He may choose to change you instead. GOD did not prevent the three Hebrews boys from experiencing the fiery furnace. Instead He chose to be in the midst of it with them. For it was King Nebuchadnezzar that said that he saw a fourth person in the fire and “it looks like the Son of GOD” (Daniel 3:1-30). So, at times like this we are to trust His wisdom when He says that His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9). We are to trust His love when He says that He loves us with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3). And we are to trust His power and might when He says that all power and might belongs to Him (Psalm 62:11). GOD always has a purpose and plan in every situation (Jeremiah 29:11). And He is always mindful of you. So, my friend it is always safe to step aside and allow Him to protect you. As a child of GOD, you do not have to defend or fight for yourself.

So, my friend, may I ask what’s on the other side of the door for you? Is it a foreclosure, mounting bills, family pressure? Could it be the temptation to retreat to an addiction or repetitive sin? Perhaps it’s a threatening boss or spouse? Or is it simply the unknown? The Bible says in Isaiah 53:19 that when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD will lift up a standard against him. Notice it says ‘when’ and not ‘if.’ There will always be something at the door attempting to instill fear, worry and doubt in our hearts and we are to not consider it strange (1 Peter 4:12). Because there will always be a battle to steal your joy, peace and faith. But there is nothing in existence that can contend with the GOD we serve. Absolutely nothing!

The young girl I’d just met could’ve rejected my desire to fight for her and could’ve decided to fight for herself but perhaps it was the strength, confidence, and peace in my voice that made her step aside. Whatever it was she put her trust in a 5’6 120lb (Ok, 140lb) stranger. How much more will your Heavenly Father protect you when He has all resources, power and might at His disposal? Step aside my friend and throw all of your trust in GOD. He is faithful to reward those who throw all of their faith and trust in Him. Step aside and receive His comfort, wisdom, guidance and peace. He is trustworthy and faithful. When GOD made His promise to Abraham He swore by Himself because there is no one greater (Hebrews 6:13). That’s the GOD that says be still and know that I am GOD (Psalm 46:10). That’s the GOD that promises to never leave or forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6, Hebrews 13:5). And that my friend is GOD, your Heavenly Father.

I truly hope this message blesses you. I see the LORD, our GOD moving mightily on your behalf as you exercise your faith by stepping aside. And I am ever so excited for you.

Don’t miss a single moment…

29 Monday Apr 2013

Posted by in Relationship with GOD

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fall in love with Jesus - Lion and girl biggerI have a friend that I haven’t spoken to in a while. She and I have been friends since elementary school. Life gets busy and we can go months, even years without speaking. When we finally speak we have so much to catch up on. It’s as if time stands still and before we know it the minutes turn into hours. I must admit, this is not the ideal situation because I hear about the birth of her son and realize that I missed experiencing the joy of being there. I hear of the health problem he’s had to overcome and I’m saddened that I wasn’t there to comfort my friend or be a shoulder for her to cry on. I missed great moments and all because I was too busy.

At times this is how our relationship with GOD plays out. We feel as if life gets too busy to meet with Him. The overlapping deadlines, endless responsibilities, struggles of balancing work and home, and dealing with everyday pressures can weigh on us in such painful ways. But the Bible says that GOD considers us His friend (John 15:15, Proverbs 3:32 (NLT), Romans 5:10 (NLT)). We can have a friendship with GOD. How amazing is that! I mean this is GOD, my friend. The One who’s placed the universe in motion and keeps it precisely intact. He is the One that has all power and might in His hand and no one can withstand Him (Psalm 147:5, 2 Chronicles 20:6). He is the Lion of Judah, Almighty GOD and He longs to walk and talk with you daily.

When you cultivate a relationship with GOD He begins to reveal Himself to you in a personal way. He reveals what pleases Him and what grieves Him; what angers Him and what blesses Him; what brings Him joy and how to make Him smile. He delights in directing and guiding you and He desires to be known by you. My friend, GOD is not a monstrous entity somewhere high above the clouds passing judgement. No, no my friend He can be known and experienced just as you know your friends here on earth, only better. He is faithful and glorious; loving and kind; protective and wise; powerful and patient.

GOD doesn’t want you to miss a single moment of His comfort, guidance, wisdom and peace. If we are too busy to meet with Him we miss these precious moments. Then we are left to do things in our own strength and make decisions that may lead us in the wrong direction – venturing us into potentially dangerous territory. GOD patiently waits to speak with you every single second of every day. He is waiting now. He is beckoning you into a deeper relationship with Him that will leave you in complete and utter awe. Can’t you feel His tugging on your heart? My friend, hush the world and all of it’s many distractions and meet with GOD today. Set time aside and let Him reveal Himself to you in ways you could never, ever imagine. He will leave you hungering and thirsting for more of Him. I promise you!

I truly hope this message blesses you. I see GOD and all of heaven rejoicing over you as you meet with Him today. I see it, my friend, and I am so very excited for you.

Lessons from Spider-Man…

22 Monday Apr 2013

Posted by in Obedience, Surrender

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Spiderman and venomMy daughter loves The Amazing Spider-Man. She watches it on television in the morning while getting dressed for school. She can even stomach parts of the Spider-Man movies. For example, she likes Sandman but hates the Lizard. She enjoys Harry Osborn’s new goblin but not so sold on his father, the sinister Green Goblin. So when we came across Venom she was a bit on the fence. So, we talked about it.

Venom is a character that’s been consumed by ‘venom,’ a black sticky, icky mass that has the capacity to attach itself to people who are angry and vengeful. It’s constantly seeking a bitter and angry host. In the movie Spider-Man 3 Peter Parker (Spider-Man without the suit) finds out who killed his uncle and his anger rages. Hmmm, perfect opportunity for the venom to attach and it does. Once the venom attaches Peter Parker/Spider-Man’s personality changes. He is hipper, sassier, and wickedly more confident because venom gives him a surge of power and confidence that makes him feel alive. The only drawback is that this power is evil, menacing and controlling. And he finds out that it’s not so easy to free himself of this malevolent creature who desires to consume him.

So where’s the message? Well, I explained to Noah how extremely important it is to always forgive because if you don’t that anger is like a poison that takes root in your heart and has the potential of changing you in awful ways. When you harbor unforgiveness you become jealous, prideful, easily offended and bitter. Furthermore, it impedes spiritual growth and blocks our fellowship with GOD. All because of the poison in your heart that begins to control and consume your thoughts and behavior.

So may I ask you, my friend, is there anything or anyone you need to forgive? Or have you found justification for this anger? Has someone deeply offended or disappointed you? Perhaps you didn’t receive what you thought you deserved? Or maybe something you really wanted fell apart and now you’re upset? Whatever it is, forgive that situation. Forgive that person. Forgive yourself. The Bible says that you are to go and make peace with your brother and then come before GOD with your gifts (Matthew 5:24). Unforgiveness does nothing but harm and hinders the flow of GOD’s blessings, power, anointing and favor in your life. Further, that toxic poison has the propensity to negatively impact your relationships and skews your ability to enjoy and be grateful for what you do have. GOD desires for you to experience His fullness and that simply won’t happen until you surrender that anger, disappointment and pain to Him.

My friend, if you have been deeply offended, treated unjustly, angered or disappointed know that GOD is very well aware of the situation and with trust in Him we are not to pay back evil with evil (Romans 12:17). For He says that vengeance is His – not ours (Romans 12:19). The Bible also states that it’s okay to be angry but be careful not to sin in that anger or let it consume us (Ephesians 4:26 NLT). So are your ‘spidey senses’ telling you there’s someone or something you need to go before the Lord and forgive? Let the Holy Spirit lead you to surrender every person and every situation to Him. He is the only One that can prevent it from consuming you and remove the poison if it has taken root. And my friend I promise you – GOD is beyond ready and exceedingly willing. Humble yourself before Him and watch Him raise you up.

I hope this message blesses you. I see the Lord revealing to you all those situations that need forgiving and with your obedience the floodgates of His blessings, power and favor being opened up onto you. And I’m so very happy for you. I truly, truly am!

Do not be afraid of what you see or hear…

15 Monday Apr 2013

Posted by in Faith, Obedience

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I had a dream about a month or two ago. It was one of those dreams where you have a very strong emotional reaction upon waking. And although you may not remember the details you never forget how it made you feel. In this dream I could hear a strange voice and see a flickering of light coming from a room down a hallway. I turned and asked the people in the room with me if they could hear the strange voice. But no one heard it but me. So, I walked down the hall and into the room. The room was dark, cold and extremely frightening. I turned to run and suddenly heard something that stopped me in my tracks: “Do not be afraid of what you see or hear.” I knew that this was a command from GOD. And I immediately experienced an overwhelming peace wash over me. Ever since this dream whenever I’ve received unfavorable news I am reminded of those words and it has given me a peace, confidence and boldness I can not even put into words.

Oh my friend, what unfavorable information have you recently seen or heard? Is it news of a layoff or foreclosure? Maybe an unfaithful spouse? Could it be a denial or rejection letter? Missed opportunity? Or perhaps a friend or family member is slipping back into an addiction or dangerous behavior. Whatever your unfavorable news know in your heart that you are not alone. You are never alone. GOD stands beside you. He fights for you and He has already made the crooked path straight. Numerous times in the Bible GOD commands us to not be afraid and promises to never leave or forsake us. In Deuteronomy 31:6 it says “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your GOD who goes with you.” In Joshua 1:9 it says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed for the Lord your GOD is with you wherever you go.” In Hebrews 13:6 it says “So we confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” And in every single situation GOD was faithful and delivered each person from their enemies.

My friend, whatever unfavorable information you may have received I have been sent to tell you that you do not have to be afraid any longer. Like a heavy bag of bricks you can lay it down on the floor. Drop it. Release it. Exhale the poison of fear from your heart and inhale the love and peace of GOD. You are covered. Before you can even look back down at that heavy bag of bricks Jesus has carried it away. He owns it now. It’s no longer in your possession. The peace of GOD engulfs you like a warm blanket on a cold day. The assurance of His power surrounds you. The promise of His presence and care hedges you in. So, you can cast your cares onto Him and know in your heart that you are covered, surrounded and hedged in (1 Peter 5:7). The GOD who covers you is the same GOD who created all that is seen and unseen. He is the same GOD who created the vast universe and keeps it together with indescribable precision. He is the same GOD that says that nothing is too hard for Him (Genesis 18:14, Jeremiah 32:17, Matthew 19:26, Mark 10:27, Luke 18:27). He is Jehovah Jireh (the GOD who provides). He is El Shaddai (the all-sufficient GOD).

And He is mindful of you.

The news you may have received has not taken GOD by surprise. He’s waiting to give you His peace; the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). When GOD commands you to not be afraid of what you see or hear it’s because He is in control. It’s because He has already made the crooked path straight. It’s because He’s already provided a way of deliverance. So, release your fear to Him and receive the peace, boldness, and confidence that only GOD can give you. You will not regret it. I promise you.

I truly hope this message blesses you. I see you walking with a newfound confidence and boldness that the world didn’t give you and the world can’t take away. I see it my friend and boy am I excited for you.

Close the gap…

08 Monday Apr 2013

Posted by in Relationship with GOD

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I am a school psychologist. I absolutely love my job and believe that GOD has strategically placed me in this position to prepare me for what He has truly called me to do. Part of my job entails explaining various disabilities to people in relatable terms; no psychobabble allowed. For example, with a learning disability I explain that a discrepancy (a gap) exists between what a person is capable of doing and how they are actually performing. I use my hands to further drive the point: One hand is horizontally held up high (capability) while the other hand is horizontally held low (actual performance). And the space in between is ‘the gap.’ With the use of various assessment tools we psychologists are able to identify the cause of the gap and provide suggestions on closing it. (I then take my two hands that are held apart and bring them together until they meet and the gap is closed.)

This is much how our relationship operates with our Heavenly Father. He is a holy GOD, who longs to have a close relationship with us and has made provision to do so with the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. He desires that we experience His presence, power, anointing, glory, and revelation so that He may equip us to become all that He has called us to be (1 Corinthians 3:9). And although GOD is ever present and remains hopelessly in love with us, at times sin can create a feeling of ‘distance’; a gap so to speak. This distance often feels like GOD is far away or a sense that your prayers are weightless – floating in the air and not being heard. It could also feel like the power, passion and zeal for the things of GOD has gone. This distance may appear to occur suddenly or by way of a slow drifting. It is at this time that we are to press in.

My friend, if you are or have experienced this distance from GOD, you are not alone. I have experienced it many, many times. Just recently, in fact. I had struggled with a sudden lack of passion and a general feeling of distance from GOD. I yearned for the closeness He and I had just a few weeks earlier. So, I prayed and pressed in. It was hard, very hard. But GOD showed up. He always does! While praying I saw an image of me standing in the middle of a white, empty, wall-less room. In my hand I held a long thin stick and I struck it into the ground. The striking caused a ripple effect expanding outward to create a circle around me. On the outside of the circle was the glory of GOD. Inside of the circle was confusion, disorder, and a sense of foulness. I knew instantly that something was hindering me from experiencing His presence and power. After much prayer He revealed what was creating the gap and how to close it. (It is from this experience I learned firsthand that delayed obedience is disobedience.)

Are you currently experiencing ‘a gap’ in your relationship with GOD? Does it feel as if something is hindering your prayers from reaching GOD or experiencing His fullness? Could it be unforgiveness or unconfessed sin? Perhaps, a lack of faith (Hebrews 11:6) or not taking heed of His promptings? Maybe it’s an unchecked jealousy, pride, or like me delayed obedience. My friend, if you would pursue Him GOD will reveal what’s causing the distance and show you how to close it. He is faithful. GOD is not upset or angry with you. And He has not forgotten you. He absolutely loves you and hates not being able to reach you. He is on the outside of the gap desiring to pour wisdom into you, re-ignite your passion, give you the abundant life He promised, and bless you with an overflow of fresh anointing. Humble yourself before Him and let Him show you how to close the gap.

I truly hope this message blesses you. I see the gap closing and I am beaming ever so excitedly for you because I know that GOD is ushering you into a deeper, fuller relationship with Him. And boy, oh boy are you in for one of the greatest experiences of your life!

It’s time to trade in the lies…

01 Monday Apr 2013

Posted by in Renewing of your mind

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Today I am going to bare my soul and reveal to you a secret about myself. You may ask, “Now why would she want to go on and do that? That’s crazy.” But I am doing it for a few reasons: 1. Because I feel compelled to 2. I will be obedient to this urging of the Holy Spirit 3. I am confident that in doing so that someone will be abundantly blessed And 4. There is freedom in the release of toxins from this body in which the Holy Spirit dwells. So, as you can see it is a win-win-win-win situation.

My friend, I have lived with a lie. And this lie had replayed itself over and over in my head like a tape recorder. I viciously guarded it with as much maneuvering and tenacity as one possibly could. And as you might imagine keeping this lie under wraps was extremely exhausting and secretly weighed heavily on me as I attempted to muster one smile after another. Please, let me explain…

In the movie Clueless, a clever 90’s flick about pampered teenagers, there is a scene where two characters are talking. One points and says, “Do you think she’s pretty?” The other replies, “Oh no, she’s a full-on Monet. Like the painting – From a distance she’s all that but up close she’s not at all that put together.” I hung my head and whispered to myself, “That’s me.” You see, for many years I had placed great emphasis and importance on what others thought or felt about me; constantly seeking approval, acceptance, worthiness, and validation. And although GOD had blessed me with numerous people who have poured great things into me, what was always on heavy rotation in my head were the words that spoke disapproval. Deep inside I was never smart, pretty, shapely, successful, special, or talented enough. Regardless of the number of awards and degrees I achieved or material possessions I obtained I felt empty, void, insecure, and unworthy – nearly buckling under the weight of maintaining the ‘she’s got it all together’ image. And I lived with the fear of people finding that out. That I, Tanny Alicia Garcia was a Monet. And, my friends it hurt deeply to live that way.

I wish I could say that I had a supernatural experience that instantly changed this inaccurate way of thinking but I can’t. It has been an ever-developing, ongoing process of exchanging the world’s lies with the truths of GOD. While in prayer GOD revealed to me that the standards under which the world dictates success are erroneous, elusive and shifty. (As Heidi Klum of Project Runway says – “One day you’re in, the next day you’re out.”). To identify your worth under earthly standards and at the mercy of man’s opinion is foolish. Because this, my friend is your walk, your journey, your mistakes, your growth, and your personal relationship with Christ. And the GOD we serve isn’t concerned with how you measure up to earthly standards! So hush the world and get alone with GOD and let Him download His truths into you.

And the truths of GOD are: He is absolutely head over heels for you (1 John 4:10). He promises that He will make all situations and circumstances work out for your good (Romans 8:28). He considers you the apple of His eye (Zechariah 2:8). He woos you to Him (Hosea 2:14). Nothing can separate you from His love (Romans 8:38-39). He has extraordinary, mind-blowing plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11). You can go boldly to the throne of GOD (Hebrews 4:16). He calls you His friend (John 15:15). And He found you ever so worthy that He died a horrible, painful, and lonely death just for you (John 3:16).

And these truths, my friend are solid, unshakable, and steadfast. So, you never ever have to feel insignificant or insecure again. How exciting is that! And under GOD’s standard of worth I can now recognize that I am gifted enough, bold enough, anointed enough, spiritually-led enough, purpose-driven enough, and passionate enough. And with every encounter with GOD I am changed from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).

So, I ask you dear friend whose standard of worth will you judge yourself under? The heavy burdened weight of the world with it’s elusive approval and acceptance? Or through the eyes of GOD, who even in your worst state deems you worthy of His love, mercy, grace, favor, peace, protection, forgiveness, and sacrifice (Romans 5:8). What a powerful choice and to think… The choice is all yours!

I truly hope this messages blesses you. I see you as GOD sees you. And my heart is ever so full knowing that in your trading in the lies you have put on the robe of truth. And boy does it look good on you!

That’s 1… That’s 2… That’s 3, Noah. Now take 5.

25 Monday Mar 2013

Posted by in Obedience

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The incredible and remarkably effective counting is like fingernails screeching slowly down a chalkboard to a child. Boy, do they hate to be counted. The ‘1’ means your doing something you shouldn’t be doing. The ‘2’ means ‘Hey, I’m warning you’ and by ‘3’ all bets are off and a ‘time out’ is in order. Typically by one, my darling Noah takes heed but occasionally she needs to be shown that Mommy means business. It’s the 1, 2, 3 Magic book that’s sold millions of copies to desperate parents. The ‘magic’ of it’s effectiveness, according to it’s authors is that no yelling or screaming is allowed nor necessary, just a calm voice. If by the third warning Noah continues to disobey or ignore my warnings she is to get five unpleasant minutes of time alone to reflect on what she’s done and how she can do things better next time.

When you made the decision to make Jesus your Lord and Savior something miraculous happened immediately. The Holy Spirit came to dwell within you. He is our Comforter when we need tender loving arms around us and no one else’s will do. His anointing empowers and equips us to work powerfully in the areas of our calling. Another crucial role of the Holy Spirit is to direct and guide us; often by way of a gentle warning to tell us that what we are doing is not in alignment with the Word of GOD or prompting us to move in a different direction. Like 1,2,3 Magic, the Holy Spirit often does not need to yell or scream. He graciously allows us the power to choose how we’ll respond to His promptings. When GOD revealed His glory to Elijah it was not revealed in the powerful windstorm, the earthquake, or the fire, but in a still small voice (a gentle whisper). (1 Kings 19:11-12 KJV)

I have experienced the promptings, leadings and warnings of the Holy Spirit on several occasions in my walk with GOD. He reveals Himself in various ways – through dreams, revelations, visions and that still small voice. Let me tell you: I have heeded His warnings and was greatly blessed and I have on several occasions ignored His promptings and experienced significant and unnecessary sorrow and pain. We can choose to respond to His warnings or suffer the consequences. In the Bible Jonah refused to heed GOD’s promptings to go to Ninevah. After several warnings to obey, Jonah was given a ‘time out’ and made to spend three days alone in the belly of a fish contemplating his actions and praying for forgiveness. (Jonah 1:1-17)

Noah thinks I’m ruining her fun but I see the peril that lies ahead if she continues on the path she’s going. My friend, GOD is no killjoy; trying desperately to find ways to take the pleasure out of life. Oh no! Actually it’s the complete opposite. He understands that the pleasures the world offers are empty and lead to our spiritual, emotional and physical destruction. Our GOD is omniscient and He can see the dangers we face when we do not take heed of His warnings. His forewarnings are to protect and guide you. Oh my, I tell you that there is abundant power, blessings, and great joy when we operate within His will.

My friend, what has GOD prompted you to take heed of? Is He warning you to stop a certain behavior? Or perhaps He’s leading you down a new unfamiliar path or guiding you through an opened door. Whatever He is prompting, warning or leading you to do, please take heed. The Bible says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me.” (John 10:27 NIV) He is the Good Shephard who has gone through great measures to protect, direct and save you. It is because of GOD’s immeasurable love for you that He gives promptings and warnings. And with your obedience there will be greater blessings, a closer relationship with Him and indescribable joy. He is faithful and He will not let you down. I promise you!

I truly hope this message blesses you. I see you immediately taking heed to His voice. And my heart is overflowing with joy to know that in your obedience you are in the greatest position to receive His absolute best. I’m so, so, so very excited for you!