Author Darlene J. Conard

Room’s quiet. “Lord, help me to love as You love.” I sat still at my desk, the room’s quiet, enveloping me like a soft blanket. As I closed my eyes, I recalled the gentle but persistent knock of Jesus at the door of my heart, a heartfelt invitation to someone so unworthy. Tears began to well in my eyes, spilling over as a cascade of memories flooded my mind—each one a reminder of His grace and mercy. This world needs the deep, transformative compassion that mirrors Christ’s! Every failure reminds me of my dependence on Him; each stumble draws me closer, igniting a deeper love within me. The more I recognize my shortcomings, the more profound my need for Him becomes, and, in turn, my heart swells with an overwhelming love for the One who loves me unconditionally.

“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8 KJV) Jesus’ love can break every stronghold, transforming even the direst situations into a beautiful garden. Our hearts need to be filled with that pure love to see broken individuals through God’s perspective. Instead of perceiving someone as useless, we should recognize them as a soul in mending. God didn’t view us that way; He saw potential in us to be on fire for Him and to reach out to other broken souls.

Early yesterday morning, as I was scrolling through Facebook, someone’s profile caught my attention. I felt moved by the Spirit of God to pray for this person. This individual has experienced significant betrayal and hurt in their life. Pain can drive people to act and speak in ways that seem out of character. The enemy may remind them of their past and point fingers at us, making it seem like we are their adversaries. It’s important to be patient and understand that it’s not personal.

“This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.”  (John 15:12 KJV)

The love of Christ inspires a journey toward moral integrity and virtuous living, illuminating hearts and guiding choices that reflect compassion, kindness, and righteousness.

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.”  (1 John 4:18 KJV) When we get into the presence of God we feel an unexplainable love. God corrects us not in a condemning way but in perfect love.

As I conclude, I encourage you to embrace a spirit of compassion rather than resentment. Instead of harboring negativity, surround those who may have wronged you with heartfelt prayers and envelop them in the unconditional love that Jesus offers. Let your response be one of grace and understanding.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This 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.

Sitting in my living room and peering into the all-consuming darkness, I contemplated the biblical text I had recently immersed myself in. It struck me how every victory in the text stemmed from unwavering trust in God. I was drawn to the stories of young leaders like Josiah, who ascended to kingship at the tender age of eight, and Samuel, who obediently heeded the voice of God as a simple boy. Conversely, the account of Joseph, Jacob’s son, induced a deep sense of injustice, as his brothers robbed him of thirty-one precious years and deprived him of his mother’s comforting presence. Despite the unfairness, I found comfort in the promise of uncovering the unfolding of Joseph’s life in Egypt, as depicted in Genesis, chapter 39.

Deborah, a remarkable figure, served as a prophetess and a judge of Israel. I realized that the most minor aspects of their lives hinged on their obedience to God’s guidance. The contrast between human imperfection and God’s persistent call to share in His glory never fails to captivate me, drawing me closer to the text and its teachings. Judges 4

Our spiritual growth is involvedly tied to the challenges we face. Through these trials, our faith is tested and strengthened, leading to a deeper understanding of God’s guidance and our spiritual journey.

          “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 KJV

The journey of faith is not without its moments of discouragement. Yet, it is in these moments that our unwavering resolve is most crucial. We must hold fast to our trust in God’s plan, knowing He is always with us, guiding us through every trial.

These scriptures deeply resonate with me. They remind us that some prayers are answered swiftly, while others require patience. The passage from 2 Corinthians 1:20 reassures us, ‘For all the promises of God in him are yes, and in him Amen, to the glory of God by us.’ It’s a reminder that we must not give up but continue to seek His guidance and delve deeper into His word. Our persistent knocking symbolizes our perseverance; we actively participate in spiritual growth through this act. The door will open in His time and never be shut again.

As we persist with unwavering determination, we will navigate the transition into the next phase of our lives. In the face of challenges, let us not yield to despair. Instead, let us confront and overcome Satan’s deceitful tactics with fervor and wholeheartedly embrace the inheritance that is destined for us.

“And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint” Luke 18:1 (KJV)

Let’s persevere in prayer and hold on to hope.

“I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” Revelation 3:8 KJV

These Words are written in red to signify that Christ is speaking. He is the One Who will set the door before us.

Beloved, stay cheerful, keep praying and obeying Him. Witness how He brings about a glorious outcome!

Author Darlene J. Conard

Years ago, a thirteen-year-old girl opened up about her insecurities during vacation Bible school. I’ll call her Hannah to protect identities. I will call her Hannah. Hannah dropped her head, saying, “I’m a mistake.” Focusing entirely on the sweet young girl, I asked, “Hannah, what makes you say such a thing?” She fixed her eyes on the floor and refused to look at me or anyone else. “My mom told me so.” My heart dropped to the floor as I understood her pain. “Oh no, honey, you are not a mistake!” I’m going to tell you what I told her. I’ve had to tackle the same demon with the word of God.

“Before I formed thee in the belly, I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb” … (Jeremiah 1:5 KJV). That’s astounding to me! He knew everything about us before we were conceived.

Esther, Samuel, and many more were on time. God used Esther to intercede for her people. Samuel brought order back into the house of God. Jeremiah may have been young, but still, his timing was perfect.

In all honesty, I hesitated to write this message. I prayed for guidance. My friend posted the picture at the top with the scripture in Jeremiah.  DNA is the post title. It’s a message to remind humanity that God is the creator of life. He ordained our beginning and our end. He already knew of our failures and imperfections. God uses it to bring forth His will.

Thirteen-year-old Hannah didn’t realize she was born for God’s glory. No one told her that she was born to do what no one else could do or be. Her character was a vital part of this generation.

“For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” (Psalm 139:13-14 KJV)

God isn’t seeking perfection from us; rather, He desires a heart that is willing to be present and open. What truly matters is our willingness to respond to His call and to say, “Here I am.” This heartfelt declaration signifies our readiness to embrace His purpose and guidance in our lives, acknowledging that we may not have all the answers or be without flaws, but we are committed to walking with Him on our journey.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish. My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024. This 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.

Author Darlene J. Conard

As I observed, the workers carefully removed the apple tree’s branches. I couldn’t understand why they were dismantling something so beautiful. The tree’s delicate white and pink blossoms had always brought joy to the picnic area, filling the air with a gentle, calming fragrance in the spring. Now, their absence left me feeling disappointed and disheartened. I realized that my negative reaction was due to my lack of understanding. It wasn’t until later that I discovered the purpose behind this process — pruning. The men only did this to ensure the tree’s future growth and survival. I would have to wait until next year to witness their beauty again. This year wasn’t their time.

In a spiritual sense, I felt a deeper connection with the idea that if those trees could scream out in pain, asking, “Why have you cut my branches?”  I could relate. Just as the men knew exactly how and where to cut, God knows exactly when and where to remove things from our lives. He has to. Pruning is an indication of fruitfulness. For the trees to bear fruit again, they would have to be pruned.

Mark 2:22 says, “No man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles.” “It can’t be done. Human nature kicks in to do things our way prematurely. We step in with our thoughts and ideas. God requires us to walk in spirit and truth.

God deals with people, but it takes time.

Saul, surnamed Paul, encountered the two-edged sword on his way to Damascus. Deep within, he honestly thought he was doing God’s service. Jesus’ appearance blinded him. (Acts 9:1-9) We go through pruning not because something is wrong with us but because we want to know what is right. God knows much more about lay dormant than we are aware of.

Through trials, I have gained more than I lost, which initially didn’t make sense to me. We will receive an honorary position. The Almighty Creator Himself puts us before the small and great, saying, “They have glorified Me well.”

God permitted Satan, knowing that Job was fruitful and would not lose his luster or faith in Him.

Jesus stood silent before Pilate as he searched deep within himself for the right questions. How would he unlock Jesus’ silence? He was wise. His refusal permeated truth into Pilates’s physical authority. “Don’t you know I have the power to crucify You?” In response, Jesus answered,” You could have no power at all except it be given from above.” John 19:9-11

Satan only has the authority that’s given from above to test us.

Be encouraged knowing that God is in control of our lives if we allow Him to be.

^“ And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish. My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024. This 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.

Author Darlene J. Conard         

David tested the Lord when he counted the people, Israel. Gad, sent by the Lord, gave him three options for punishment. David had to choose his judgment: seven years of famine, fleeing from his enemies for three months, or three days of pestilence in the land.

The most careful decision made by David was to place his trust in the hands of the Lord, as he acknowledged that “his mercies are great.” The Lord ultimately chose to spare all three individuals involved. As the angel poised to strike the people, God relented and commanded the angel, saying, “It is enough: stay your hand now.” At that moment, the angel of the Lord was positioned at the threshing place of Araunah the Jebusite, a significant location in this divine communication. (11Samuel 24:16) (Read II Samuel 24:11-17)

A devout follower, David felt deep remorse for his transgressions and sought to make amends with God. In a show of repentance, David obtained the necessary threshing instruments, oxen, and wood to prepare the threshing floor meticulously. Upon this sacred ground, he constructed an altar, which he intended to offer up as a symbol of his repentance, knowing that the purifying flames of God would consume it.

David openly acknowledged his sin of tempting the Lord in a moment of profound humility. He fervently requested to be subjected to the Lord’s merciful judgment rather than face the vengeance of his enemies.

David encountered a profoundly moving spiritual epiphany in this still and sacred environment, situated on the threshing floor. In this hallowed space, he once more experienced a sense of renewal and clarity, liberated from the weight of wrongdoing.

The connection to the Pharisees and Sadducees is that the threshing floor symbolizes separating the righteous from the unrighteous. When David purchased the threshing floor, it represented his spiritual separation from those who did not align with his beliefs. It’s a metaphor for distinguishing between genuine people and those who were not in his kingdom.

A few days ago, as I lay in bed in a half-sleep state, the Holy Ghost dropped the concept of contaminated wheat in my spirit. This idea became more significant to me after listening to a sermon about the symbolic meaning of the threshing floor. The speaker explicated that in preparation for a new phase in our lives, we undergo a transformative process similar to the purification of wheat on the threshing floor, where impurities are separated from the valuable grain.

Everything and anything that does not align with God’s values and principles will be eliminated from our lives and mission. This includes negative influences, harmful behaviors, and anything that hinders our spiritual growth and our ability to impact others positively. This purification process is essential to ensure we remain true to our purpose of leading souls toward God and living by His will.

This has caused me to think differently and search myself.

Be encouraged. God does these things because He loves us so much.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This 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.

Darlene J. Conard

… “There are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.” (John 21:25 KJV)

How many more things could there possibly be? I thought, trying to fathom an exact number. Thinking about it breaks down my mental capacity. I thrive on being an author—no limits on what I can write or about who, what, how, and where. Anything can happen at any given moment.

Putting pen to paper about what inspires me has become an essential practice. Until recently, I had never fully appreciated its importance. When it comes to my literary tastes, I am drawn to hefty books that overflow my bookshelf. But I find myself utterly absorbed once I crack open the cover and delve into the pages. The hours slip unnoticed, and with every turn of the page, I hear myself whispering, “Just one more chapter.” Before I realize it, I’ve effortlessly soared into chapter five! These stories weave together unexpectedly, with characters leaping across different arcs and threads, creating a rich tapestry of narratives that captivate me. Somewhere down the road, they have a role in the story.

Am I the only one tempted to go to the last chapter to appease my wandering thoughts? We want to know exactly how the story ends. I hope the character’s outcome beautifully comes together, is hopeful, and maybe even reflects what we thought. “Yes! I knew it! Thank goodness!

His word is the mapping of our story.  “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV) His thoughts about us are expectancy, peacefulness, and genuineness. God sees the beginning from the end of our lives. Let me give a thought. Those books that aren’t written as recorded in Luke could be our story. God is doing great work in our lives. He is doing just that!

Daily, I remind myself that the present state of the situation is not the outcome. Quickly, our assurance rests in the core of our emotions. Bad decisions, thoughts, and actions happen. I often see this quote: “God is still writing your story; quit trying to steal the pen and let God write your story.”

As passionate as I am about writing, my life story is in God’s hands. Your story is as important as mine. Hebrews 12:2 says, “He is the author and finisher of our faith.”

Let the Author of authors write your story. Don’t snatch the pen from His hand.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This 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.

Author Darlene J. Conard

With extraordinary courage, Rahab provided refuge to two spies dispatched by Joshua in Jericho. She cleverly concealed them on her rooftop, hiding them among bundles of flax stalks drying in the sun. When the king’s men arrived, demanding to know the spies’ whereabouts, Rahab faced them without flinching. With unwavering composure, she confidently claimed that the men had already left the city, sending the soldiers in pursuit of a false trail. Her daring actions were instrumental in ensuring their mission’s success, showcasing her bravery.

As the Israelites readied themselves for the conquest of Jericho, Rahab, a woman of remarkable courage, boldly professed her faith in the God of Israel. Her plea for mercy, a testament to her unshakable belief in the power of the Israelite God, was a fierce determination to protect her loved ones.

In a compassionate response, the spies agreed to her request and instructed her to hang a scarlet cord from her window as a signal. They also advised her to gather her family inside her house for safety.

The walls eventually collapsed as the Israelites marched around Jericho according to God’s instruction. Rahab’s house, part of the city wall, remained intact. The spies honored their promise, and Rahab and her family were saved.

After the fall of Jericho, Rahab and her family were welcomed into the Israelite community. Her faith and actions, later celebrated in the New Testament, hold a significant place in Jesus’s lineage. She is commended for her faith in the Book of Hebrews, underscoring their historical importance.

This shows that although some who are not living for God yet fear Him, this is changeable!

The ancient city of Jericho met its dramatic fate when the Israelites, led by Joshua, encircled its formidable walls. For six days, they marched in solemn procession, and on the seventh day, they completed seven rounds, accompanied by the resounding blasts of priests’ horns. As the anticipation peaked, the people raised their voices in a triumphant shout, and the walls of Jericho, in a miraculous display of God’s power, came tumbling down.

Modern archaeological sites at Tell es-Sultan believed to be the site of biblical Jericho, have not yielded evidence of a city from the related period, casting a captivating veil of mystery over this legendary account. Some scholars suggest that the story may have originated as a means of declaratory regional claims by later rulers of Judah, adding an intriguing layer of historical interpretation to this timeless account.[1]

Remarkably, all the walls fell except Rahab’s. You see —when she let down the scarlet cord, it had the same symbolism as the lamb’s blood applied by the children of Israel. Her wall became a safeguard.

Archaeologists have not found remains of the walls of Jericho, but Rahab’s wall shall stand in defense against the enemy.

In times of need, it’s essential to remember to apply the redeeming power of Jesus’s blood to every aspect of your life. Just like the life-giving umbilical cord, the scarlet cord symbolizes the continuous flow of life from Jesus to you, beloved child of God.

References: Rahab hides the spies: Joshua 2 KJV – And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of – Bible Gateway.

The falling of the Jericho Walls: Joshua 6 KJV – Now Jericho was straitly shut up – Bible Gateway

Historical Research: Battle of Jericho – W1ikipedia

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This 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.

Author Darlene J. Conard

One of my favorite scenes from the series The Chosen is when Matthew reconciles with his parents.

The character he portrays reflects the profound challenges associated with autism, poignantly capturing the essence of those struggles. While the Bible does not openly suggest that Matthew had autism, it also leaves room for interpretation, allowing for the intriguing notion that we can explore the “what ifs.” This uncertainty invites us to imagine a richer narrative, pondering the difficulties of Matthew’s experiences and how they might align with the realities faced by individuals on the autism spectrum.

From the perspective of the scriptwriter, Matthew is a character profoundly unsettled by anything that disrupts his carefully organized world. As he prepares to leave the magnificence of his sprawling mansion, his meticulous nature shines through; he performs a final check to ensure he has a crisp, clean handkerchief on hand, avoiding any unsightly contact with his hands. The marbled floors of his home are lined with an astonishing array of sandals, each pair arranged with precision, reflecting his obsessive attention to detail. Just before stepping out, he deftly slips an extra pair into his satchel, a habit that speaks to his preparedness.

Throughout the series, Matthew is portrayed in his element—engaged in his favorite activity, cleaning, unfiltered in his conversations, and exhibiting a boldness that sets him apart. With unwavering focus, he seamlessly applies his exceptional mathematical skills to solve problems and navigate challenges, further defining his character as a thinker and a doer.

As time passes, he has the privilege of being an eyewitness to the impossible. The fisherman’s nets overflowed, causing the boat to sink—fellow fishermen hastened to help Simon (Peter) and his men.  

Matthew couldn’t believe what he just witnessed. The very thing challenged logicality. For once in his life, he couldn’t use mathematics to compute the massive catch. It troubled him greatly. Thus, it smashed his security gate wide open. Of course, that means Matthew needed to know who this Jesus was. He begins chasing after Him only to witness more and more. He didn’t realize he was Jesus’ fish. Fisher of men was the point. (Matthew 4:19)

Matthew lost interest in his occupation and developed a hunger to know God. As time passed, the old ridged Matthew chipped away piece by piece. Jesus’ message of forgiveness crumbled Mattew, the tax collector. Standing in the midst of thousands of believers, Matthew the scribe transpired. It summoned a humility that lay dormant in him.

He hoped that mercy would be present during his parents’ visitation. His ema called it “blood money.” He had what he had collected taxes, but his parents disowned him for that.

 The grand scene that brought me to tears. After all is forgiven, Ema pulls her son into her embrace. Matthew untwines his fingers wrapped tightly around the handkerchief, letting it drop on the table to unite with her love. Matthew was once again their son.

The handkerchief no longer became his focus. Being in the presence of the Lord transpires in many beautiful ways!

(Matthew 9:9-17 as tax collector)

Dallas Jenkins, the writer of the series The Chosen, clearly states that not all content is Biblical but does not contradict the harmony of the scriptures. This article demonstrates how the scene significantly impacted my relationship with Jesus.

The photograph is from the series The Chosen. Darlene J. Conard is affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.