Author Darlene J. Conard

From the very foundation of the earth, a mesmerizing spark of amber light unfurled in graceful, circular motions as though it were playfully chasing its tail. Wisping sounds traveled in the air as the flames grew, forming a magnificent fire pillar towering over me. The sight was truly breathtaking. “I did this for the children of Israel. I will do this for you; I will show my wonders.” Although the Lord spoke in a soft voice, it was magnified. His Words echoed, ushering me from a deep slumber into an awakening.

God’s counsel commenced by exploring our tendency to underestimate His immense power and greatness, especially when confronted with challenging or overwhelming circumstances. It is easy to become consumed by our present struggles and to lose sight of the limitlessness of His strength and majesty. In moments of difficulty, we often forget that His capabilities far exceed our challenges, leading us to a diminished view of His divine influence in our lives. This reflection encourages us to recognize and acknowledge the full scope of His greatness, even when times are tough. “If I could only get my emotions out of the way, I’d be fine,” I confessed to another intercessor. She reminded me that we are human.

God’s counsel and instruction are not to condemn us but to perfect and protect us. He is getting us ready for the more significant things.

The children of Israel remained stuck in the wilderness for forty-one years! I want to move on so that God can do what He needs to do in my life. I don’t want to miss out on anything that God is doing!

Take a moment to visualize this: When you’re at a game, your undivided attention is on your team or a beloved individual participating. Everything else becomes a hazy backdrop. But —if your focus shifts to the background, you risk missing out on the enjoyment of the game or the presence of those you cherish. The hazy backdrop becomes the focus; now, what’s vital is a blur.

God is taking care of things. The enemy will throw obstacles in our path to divert our focus from what God has assigned us to do.

The atmosphere is intensely charged as God prepares us for more excellent times.

“Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-19 KJV)

The things we were once accustomed to will soon be distant memories as God sets a transformative new era into motion. He has intentionally disrupted our familiar patterns and routines to compel us to step beyond our comfort zones and embrace the beautiful changes ahead.

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