Dear family of God,
How is your day going? Mine was pretty rough this morning and I felt like I was in a battle. That happens from time to time doesn't it? We wage war against the enemies lies, labels and all of the pokes against our bodies. I was in tears when my son came over and he prayed for me. Soon, I felt better, clearer minded and understanding. We prayed against a spirit of disfunction. Soon, the peace of God embraced me and I was able to deal with things again.
The Lord already spoke to my heart early this morning that today was to be a day of worship in spirit and in truth. I have been singing some old familiar hymns and bringing thoughts captive. Giving thanks to God for His goodness and ability to take care of me. I remembered the verse that spoke of putting on a garment of praise for a spirit of heaviness. Here it is in Isaiah 61:3..."To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion--to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, the garment [expressive] of praise instead of a heavy, burdened, and failing spirit--that they may be called oaks of righteousness [lofty, strong, and magnificent, distinguished for uprightness, justice, and right standing with God], the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified." This is who I am, who you are, in Christ.
This prophecy begins in verse 1 saying..."The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed and qualified me to preach the Godpel of good tidings to the meek, the poor, and afflicted; He has sent me to bind up and heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the [physical and spiritual] captives and the opening of the prison and of the eyes to those who are bound. To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord [the year of His favor] and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn."
We can see this again in Luke 4:18 where Jesus is reading the scriptures in the temple. This is about His ministry. Are you needy today? Are you having trouble declaring praise over your situation? I know I sure wasn't expecting to be hit hard this morning! We are targets for sure. WE need Jesus to minister to our bodies, minds and spirits! I am standing as a princess warrior, fully equipped and anointed of the Holy Spirit, I will stand against the arrows that fly from the enemy camp. We can stand together with Jesus, in truth and righteousness. We have Him ahead of us, behind us and beside us; surrounded by His omnipotent Word.
I want to pray for you. Dear Father in heaven, thank you for undergirding and providing the strength needed for every battle. We long for peace but are learning to fully depend on You for all we need, even in these difficult times. Thank you for Your abundant love, Your Spirit to guide our steps and for Jesus as our eternal friend. We lift up praise and cast down imaginations that rise against Your kingdom. We trust You Lord, even in this situation we are present in. Thank you for this day to expose the lies of the enemy and for the truth that lights our way. We rest in You sweet Lord. In the mighty, matchless name of Jesus Christ, amen.
As you give glory to God, regardless of your circumstances, your faith is being built up. The wilderness doesn't last forever. It is meant for our good and to the glory of God. Someday soon we will walk into the promise land, changed into the image of God. Be blessed knowing Him intimately today. Love in Christ, Patricia.
Abundance is...fully dressed in praise