Author Darlene J. Conard

As night enveloped my room, my need to delve into the pages of my Bible surpassed my desire for sleep. I reached under my pillow, feeling around until my fingers made contact with the familiar texture of the Book. It reminded me of the special ritual my grandmother had when choosing a Bible. She would open it gently and run her hand across the delicate, new pages as if seeking a connection beyond the words printed on them.

The Bible is unlike any other book on this earth. It is teeming with life and serves as a guide for navigating the challenges we face. It vividly depicts the triumphs and tribulations of humanity on every page, featuring the stories of kings, priests, warriors, prophets, and countless others who contended with hardship. I often found myself contemplating the unnamed individuals in the Bible—the adulterous, the centurion whose servant faced imminent death, the woman afflicted with an issue of blood, and many more. What unites them all is their refusal to accept their circumstances, ultimately leading them to redemption through their faith in Jesus. Their names are not the focal point; rather, it is their unwavering faith that stands out. Undoubtedly, there are people today who can relate to these stories and seek answers, saying, “I am grappling with challenges just like the woman with the issue of blood. How can I break free from a life of struggle?” Is there a remedy for drug and alcohol addictions that carries no adverse effects? The answer lies in Jesus, who offers a solution for every need, anywhere. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2 Timothy 3:16 KJV

The song “Dust on The Bible” was penned by Mac Wiseman. There have been numerous occasions when I have regrettably neglected to pick up my Bible to read it. This happened either due to feelings of discouragement or because I was overwhelmed by busyness and fatigue. I ask for forgiveness from God for these shortcomings.

“He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”  John 1:11-14 KJV

Hebrews 6:13 describes the sincerity of Abraham’s promise to father a great nation. …“Because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, ”says it all.

I yearn to transcend the outer courts and enter into His throne room, His domain.

There is only one truth and it’s His word.

Author Darlene J. Conard

^“ For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;”

In our daily lives, our human tendencies often obstruct God’s intentions. During a recent prayer, I found myself seeking the Lord’s assistance in overcoming my doubt, much like the Centurion did when he asked Jesus to heal his servant. The Centurion, a man of authority, humbly expressed unworthiness in inviting Jesus into his home, saying, “Just say the word, and it will be done” (Matthew 8:5-9). This powerful plea resonates with me today: “Just say the word, and it shall be done.”

For several weeks, the intensity of spiritual warfare felt too much. One night, I envisioned a page containing sentences, but specific details were left out. I saw myself as the enemy whispered in my ear, accepting words of fate to fill in the blank. Then I saw the Lord’s finger blotting them out. “No, Darlene, those are not the correct answers.

“God, I’ve heard everyone else’s words about these situations. I want to know what You say.” His answers were wholesome, full of life, and an expected end. He will answer!

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, not evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. … ye shall seek and find me when you shall search for me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13 KJV

We have to remind ourselves multiple times, “I am not fighting against flesh and blood. Literally, we are beating the air, getting nowhere but worn down. Learning not to fill in the blanks of our life story is taking the pen out of God’s hand. I want to encourage you to meditate on things that are from above.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8 KJV

I assure you His report is completely different!

Author Darlene J. Conard

“For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.” 1 Corinthians 16:9 KJV

God works in mysterious ways, and sometimes when a door opens, we may encounter spiritual opposition. It’s important to recognize where the enemy is influencing people and situations, even when things seem harmless on the surface.

Strong’s Hebrew Greek Concordance Reference No. 1754 states that “effectual” means intensifying work, propelling a situation from one stage to the next, much like an electrical current energizing a wire and lighting up a bulb. This signifies that when God opens a significant door, He equips us to do mighty works. It demonstrates His trust in us, not because we’re perfect, but because we’ve reached a new level of capability.

Afterward he brought me to the gate, even the gate that looketh toward the east:And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory. And it was according to the appearance of the vision which I saw, even according to the vision that I saw when I came to destroy the city: and the visions were like the vision that I saw by the river Chebar; and I fell upon my face. And the glory of the Lord came into the house by the way of the gate whose prospect is toward the east. So the spirit took me up, and brought me into the inner court; and, behold, the glory of the Lord filled the house. Ezekiel 43: 1-5 KJV

This passage from the Bible reminds us that God’s presence fills our lives, and we can take comfort in the knowledge that He is watching over us. It’s important to continue seeking Him and basking in His glory.

God never closes a door without opening another. Praise Him it’s the way!

Author Darlene J. Conard

“Dear Papa God,” the six-year-old began in her prayer, “help those who are sick. Help those who are afraid. Papa God, people are hurting; help them know You can help their hurt.” As I sat mesmerized by the video of the young girl on her knees in a serene room, her innocent voice reciting a heartfelt prayer for the world, my eyes became moist, and tears rolled down my cheeks.

Her unique and personal approach to connecting with Him reminded her of the intimate and individual nature of the relationship that God invites us to have with Him.

As we settle down at night, tucked snugly beneath the soft weight of the blankets’ warmth, we can find solace in the quiet and the knowledge that He is near, watching over us.

As I contemplate my life this morning, I am deeply grateful for God’s presence, who has been my source of strength and solace during fiery trials, even before then.

 Psalm46:1-4 KJV says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; ^Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

“You can always find comfort in God, knowing His response will be filled with immeasurable love and boundless compassion, like a parent’s unwavering care and tenderness towards their child.”

Be encouraged Beloved, stay strong in faith!

Author Darlene J. Conard

Amidst the humming of my air conditioning unit, the resounding chirps of frogs, and the steady flow of passing cars, a profound stillness surrounded me. There’s only one thing that can bring such heavenly peace!

As I immersed myself in deep contemplation, savoring every single moment, a profound realization washed over me: it felt as if God had established His throne right in my apartment.

 On Friday afternoon, my friend visited me, and we had a heartfelt talk about our spiritual evolution. As we delved into the depths of our personal growth, we marveled at the liberating realization that things that once held considerable sway over our lives now have become insignificant.

“Do you hear that?” I asked her as I watched the leaves in the trees flutter. “The winds of change are here, Vick,” I said, watching her raise her head with a warrior countenance. We both felt it.

Thus saith the LORD, “Behold, a people cometh from the north country, and a great nation shall be raised from the sides of the earth.” Jeremiah 6:22 KJV

If you don’t believe that the wind carries prayer, you should. God told Ezekiel to prophesy in the wind over the dry bones. (Ezekiel 37:1-11) Life did come upon them as God recreated them.

Vials of prayers are likened to sweet odors, treasured by God and placed like fragrant flowers in the king’s chambers, a constant remembrance before Him. In ancient times, specific Oriental societies practiced gathering mourners’ tears in vials as a remembrance. These vials are described as ‘full of odors,’ representing the saint’s prayers. (Revelation 5:8)

It appears that our nation is deteriorating, but it’s far from that. Things get worse before they get better. We aren’t supposed to reflect on how things look with a natural but through the eyes of God. It will be as God says it will be.

We are encountering a mighty change in the atmosphere. Stay hopeful and keep focused on God’s plan!

Author Darlene J. Conard

“God is going to make you tough-skinned.” This morning, I woke up with the echoing tone of my friend Dallie’s profound and fervent prayer lingering in my spirit. The intercession group’s powerful declaration over me set in motion immediate and tangible changes, serving as a touching demonstration of the incredible influence that our words possess. I have felt this way for months since then.

Jesus prepared His disciples, saying, “ Behold, I send you forth as sheep amid wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16 KJV)

Sheep possess a remarkable trait – they have an impressive 300-degree field of vision. This means they can see what is behind them without turning their heads. This wide visual range helps them remain alert and aware of their surroundings, making detecting potential predators or other threats easier.

These gentle creatures pose no threat. They are receptive, very accepting of instruction, and submissive. Wolves prey on sheep; that’s why Jesus said to be wise as serpents yet harmless as doves. 

At times, when we are at our lowest, it’s easy to feel hopeless and lost. Yet, through divine intervention, God has a remarkable way of shifting our viewpoint, filling us with hope, and sparking inspiration within our hearts.

God is calling us into deeper waters. Psalm 42:7 says, “Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me.”

“Did you know that you can experience such a deep connection with God that you become resistant to the chaos around you? When God promises that no weapon formed against us shall prosper, it means that no rumor, curse, sickness, bad news, or negative opinion can have power over you. It’s an incredible state to be in! It doesn’t matter who said what or whether they believe it because God’s protection surpasses all, providing a profound sense of security and protection.

I hold what a friend of mine said to me deep within my heart: “Darlene, God chose you to be on the front line of the battle because He knew you could handle it.” Being tough doesn’t mean having a macho attitude. It means standing firm in faith, believing God for what He said He would; it means being full of the joy of the Holy Spirit!

Take this message to heart, God will make you tough enough to withstand anything that comes your way!

Trust Him to do what He said He would do! He’s so faithful!

Author Darlene J. Conard

As I poured myself a steaming cup of coffee, I took a moment to savor the familiar aroma and gathered my thoughts. I began to tackle a few small chores around the apartment, feeling a sense of accomplishment with each task completed.

The Holy Ghost said, “Look how far you’ve come, Darlene.” I stood in silence for a moment, reflecting on the hottest trials. It reminded me of moments when I resented feeling different from everyone else, wishing to blend in and not stand out. “I don’t want to be different!” I used to lament. However, as I reflected on my faith journey, I realized that something genuinely transformative had taken place within me, thanks to the power of God’s love and grace.

“When we fully grasp the profound reality that we are expressly set apart to reflect God’s glory, it makes an enormous difference in our lives. During moments of isolation and feeling misunderstood, we can find consolation in the undeniable truth that God comprehends our experiences. Understanding that God has deliberately chosen us from among the countless people in the world to have exclusive communion with Him is truly the most magnificent and awe-inspiring privilege conceivable!

The purpose of mirrors is to allow us to observe our physical appearance and make adjustments as needed. However, it becomes even more profound when we consider how we are seen through the eyes of God. Our reflection in His eyes encompasses our outward appearance and innermost thoughts, intentions, and character. This spiritual reflection can provide insight, guidance, and a deeper understanding of ourselves.

Each one of us is unique, and that’s what makes our relationship with him personal. He relates to each of us in a distinct and special way.

“We are considered as God’s masterpieces, brought into existence through Christ Jesus to carry out good deeds, which God had already planned for us to do.”

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”  Ephesians 2:10 KJV

Just know that you are unique in the eyes of God, and you are unique! Remember, when you are going through a trial, it’s a chance for us to be transformed to get where we need to be!

“I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.”  Revelation 3:18 KJV

Author Darlene J. Conard

This morning, at a little past 5 a.m., I was enveloped by the unmistakable presence of the Lord in my bedroom. The verses in Philippians 4:1-8 resonate with a peace that surpasses human understanding and cannot be replicated by the world, a peace I felt in that very moment!

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:1-8 KJV)

Let’s break these verses down.

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. “

• Don’t be afraid to confide in God about your needs, concerns, or struggles. Tell Him all about it, then give Him a heartfelt thank you and praise for who He is! Gratitude is the key to finding peace amid our struggles.

As I sat at the table, a moment of divine communication occurred when the Lord spoke to me, saying, “Darlene, too many of My people are pleading with me for the things I have promised them. I’m patiently waiting for them to believe in my promises.” For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.”  (2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV)

“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

• The peace of God is unexplainable. It’s one of those things you have to experience for yourself.

The world tries to imitate peace. A peace that is a false peace. The enemy masks sin as being better than serving God.  Hebrews 11:24-25 says, “By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;” It’s not worth it! Jesus is the true peace!

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

When you meditate on God’s teachings, reflect on His word and seek His understanding. If the thoughts occupying your mind do not align with truth, purity, or loveliness and do not lead to enlightenment, then they are not from God. Ask God to grant you the discernment to distinguish between good and evil and to reveal the truth about the situations you are facing.

Beloved, I am testifying for the first time in my life. I have had a steady, sound mind for months! God has healed my thoughts! There’s just something about the way God increases your faith!

God is good, and I pray for you that you will grow in grace and abundance in His spirit!

Author Darlene J. Conard

Hannah endured a series of painful experiences. First, God closed her womb, causing her deep emotional anguish. Then, her sister-wife Peninnah ceaselessly taunted and provoked her. On top of that, her husband was unsympathetic to her desire for a child and tried to distract her from it. As if that weren’t enough, when she poured her heart out at the altar, she was accused of being drunk by Eli, the priest, who even went as far as categorizing her as a daughter of Belial, essentially a follower of Satan.

The Hebrew term “Belial” comes from “without” and “to profit,” implying “worthlessness” or “wickedness.” This concept evolved to encompass moral force, leading to the term “wickedness”. The Talmud suggests it may mean “without a yoke,” while others see it as referring to someone who has cast off the yoke of heaven, symbolizing lawlessness.

Eli branded her with these words, she had to confront this at the altar. Hannah undeniably had a connection to heaven!

It’s tough to understand why God would allow such adversity, but eventually, her prayers were answered, and her situation improved. Her strength and determination grew, and she found solace in God’s intentions. She prayed for grace and was granted it, culminating in her becoming an ancestor to Christ.

Hannah’s key lesson is the importance of persistent prayer and unwavering faith, even in trials and pain. The hardships we endure may lead to blessings far beyond what we anticipate. It’s a poignant reminder never to lose hope and to persist in our faith.

We must confront adversity even in prayer, but we must persevere. When Hannah rejected Eli’s negative assessment, she received the answer to her prayer. It was already answered; she just needed to thank God for it.

“Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.” 1 Corinthians 3:13 KJV

Author Darlene J. Conard

“This situation is bigger than me. There’s no way it will change!” This is how we see things most of the time. It’s impossible!

 As I delved into Joshua and Caleb’s story in Numbers 13:25-14:10, I was captivated by the ongoing conversation with the Lord. Caleb’s unwavering desire to ascend the mountain and lay claim to the land promised by God stirred my soul. The vivid depiction of the land, overflowing with milk and honey and adorned with colossal clusters of grapes, would be a beautiful sight! But the spies painted a rich tapestry of abundance with horrific detail. Giants occupied the land. “We saw ourselves as grasshoppers.” Take a moment to imagine this scene: a grasshopper is a tiny creature that can easily be preyed upon. “We are like grasshoppers because these giants are not just giants; they are massive,” is what they were reporting.

Caleb silenced the people. “Let’s go and take possession of the land because we can do it.” The people murmured regretfully, longing for their days in Egypt or the wilderness, wishing they had stayed there and perished. God had intended to destroy them, but Moses interceded on their behalf. Overwhelmed with conviction, I confessed, “God, I wish I hadn’t stepped out.” The situation seemed impossible to resolve.”

There is a song titled “He’ll Do It Again.”[1] We serve a mighty God whose ways are past; finding out! Isaiah 55:8-9 says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts more than your thoughts.”

No matter how impossible things seem or how we feel, God can more than remove any obstacle standing in the way. Remember, He is a covenant-keeping God!

God has something on the other side of our circumstances awaiting us.

[1] Produced by Shirley Caesar; He’ll Do It Again is copywritten

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