Author Darlene J. Conard

As I settled into the stillness of my desk, the world outside faded away, allowing me to tune in more intently to the whispered messages from God. In that moment of reflection, I recalled the harrowing tale of the Apostle Paul. A violent storm had erupted without warning, casting their vessel violently upon the tumultuous waves. The boat was at the mercy of the relentless sea, its crew gripped by fear and uncertainty as they were ultimately hurled into the chaos of a shipwreck. They found themselves washed ashore on the rugged landscape of Malta, their journey altered by the tempest that had engulfed them.

Their journey was disrupted, the planned course overwhelmed by a storm beyond their control. But divine disruption never lacks purpose. God, the master mapmaker, traced a different line—one invisible to human eyes but pulsing with eternal precision.

They arrived not by intention, but by intervention. Malta, unassuming and unsought, rose from the horizon like a whisper in the will of God. Its shores bore no welcome banners, only native eyes—watchful, wondering, open. The island had not sent for them, yet it had been prepared. And the hearts that awaited were not hardened by skepticism, but softened by something sacred—ready soil for the seeds of glory.

As Paul set about gathering dry twigs and sturdy logs for the fire, an unsettling encounter unfolded—one that would send shivers down anyone’s spine. From the tangled underbrush, a glistening serpent emerged with an air of menace, its scales shimmering in the fading light. In a swift and startling moment, it struck, fastening its fangs onto Paul’s arm with a sharp bite. Yet, rather than succumbing to panic, Paul remained remarkably composed. With a determined flick of his wrist, he dislodged the snake and cast it into the crackling flames, watching as the serpent was swallowed by the fire’s fierce hunger. (Acts 25)

Satan will employ every tactic at his disposal to ensnare us in feelings of discouragement, depression, and confusion. He aims to weaken our spirits and bring us to a state of vulnerability, stripping away the strength and authority that God has bestowed upon us through Christ. With each whispered doubt and each wave of uncertainty, he seeks to diminish our resolve and distract us from the divine purpose and power that is rightfully ours.

We have power in Christ to trample depression, anxiety, and hopelessness; let the fire of the Holy Ghost consume it on the altar.

 ^“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”  Luke 10:19 KJV

Please feel free to share this with anyone you like. My mission is to encourage everyone to wholeheartedly follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. © Darlene J. Conard, Vision Ministries 2024. This text may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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