Author Darlene J. Conard

Frustration swirled within me like a storm as I approached a door that barred my way, its stubbornness a reflection of my mounting impatience. No matter how much I tugged and pushed, it remained firmly shut, denying me access to whatever lay beyond. In a moment of reckless impulse, I drew my foot back and delivered a powerful kick to the door, hoping to force it open. The impact echoed painfully through my foot, and I winced, instantly regretting the decision.

As I stood there, nursing the ache radiating from my toes to my ankle, a profound realization washed over me. In that instant, I felt a gentle but firm reminder from the Lord: “Darlene, you can’t kick open doors that I’ve closed.” It was as if a veil had been lifted, and I understood that my attempts to push past obstacles not intended for me were not only futile but were also causing me harm—spiritually and emotionally. I recognized the futility of my actions; by fighting against those closed doors, I was exhausting myself.

This experience served as a lesson about patience, acceptance, and the understanding that sometimes what we perceive as barriers are, in truth, God’s hand of protection! We often exhaust ourselves trying to remain in places God does not want us to be. There is always another door to be opened.

When God has firmly closed a door, don’t expend your energy trying to force it open! That door is sealed tightly, signifying that it’s not the right path for you. Embrace the closure instead of struggling against it.

Have faith that He will ensure everything you need is in place for the journey ahead, no matter where it leads you!

^“  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. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.

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

Robin Mark’s song “Days of Elijah ” is a lively message celebrating God’s steadfast faithfulness and unmatched power throughout the ages. Rich with biblical imagery, the lyrics invite listeners to reflect on significant moments in scripture where God intervened in miraculous ways and impossible situations. The song paints a vivid picture of hope, calling upon revival and restoration themes and instilling a sense of urgency about our times.

Unlike anything we have seen, we are in an era of challenges and uncertainties. Yet, within this tumult lies an extraordinary tapestry of hope and wonder. Through our struggles, we recognize the profound strength bestowed upon us by God. In moments of deep pain, we encounter His healing power’s gentle yet transformative touch. When faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we can witness the remarkable ways God intervenes, revealing His power in awe-inspiring and miraculous forms. The intertwining of hardship and hope offers a profound appreciation for the divine support that envelops us.

The prophet Elijah, a figure of remarkable power and authority, held the ability to command the very elements – he could bring forth a drought by halting the rain. (1 Kings 18:41-19:8). He could miraculously fill a jug with oil that would never run dry. (2 Kings 4:1-7). His life was marked by extraordinary events, including raising a young boy from the clutches of death and calling down fire from the heavens, showcasing his unwavering connection to the divine. (1 Kings 17:17) In a dramatic ascent into the skies, Elijah ascended into heaven while still alive, a testament to his exceptional relationship with God. (2 Kings 2:1-18) He stood boldly in defense of Yahweh against Baal, a false deity, and through his unwavering faith, he influenced many, guiding them toward the light of divine truth. (2 Kings 1:10-12)

In the face of challenges and hardships, God transcends obstacles in His way. During these times of adversity, He unleashes His most profound miracles, revealing the strength of His presence and the depth of His love.

“And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:” Acts 2:17-18 KJV.

Observe Him as He labors passionately, enveloped in fervent prayer! I find myself believing more deeply than ever before. Indeed, we are living in an extraordinary time that will exceed those of the prophet Elijah.

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 carefully dried the last of the dishes, a deep question arose: Why do we allow ourselves to worry even though we know it won’t fix anything? It’s one of Satan’s cunning tricks, tempting us to worry about things beyond our control.

I used to find myself frequently consumed by worry, but now I’m proud to declare that I have achieved complete deliverance from this burden. Upon reflection, I’ve come to understand the root of this struggle. It’s often challenging to relinquish control, mainly when we’ve grown accustomed to dictating every aspect of our lives.  Surrendering evokes feelings of vulnerability and a fear of spinning out of control, which causes anxiety.

Resolving matters outside our control is beyond our power; only God can handle that.

God promises to take care of us and meet our every need!

When Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for Passover, twelve-year-old Jesus stayed behind to minister. When they found Him, they asked, “Why did you do this? We were worried.” He replied, “Why were you searching for me? Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” (Read Luke 2:41-52)

Jesus’ answer is one we must remember; we must be about our Father’s business. I will never forget what Evangelist Benson Auxier preached in a revival service one time. “You take care of God’s business; He’ll take care of yours. Basically, God needs us to take care of the possible while He works on the impossible!

I have learned that worrying is the enemy’s strategy to tangle us in a web of confusion.

“The sower soweth the word. And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended. And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.” Mark 4:14-19 KJV

I desire to remain free from becoming overly preoccupied with the demands and worries of daily life so that I can fully focus on seizing the opportunity to reach and impact the harvest of souls whom God is actively engaging with and seeking to transform. 

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 lay motionless in the soft embrace of my bed, a profound stillness surrounded me, and in that quiet moment, the Lord whispered a reminder that resonated within my heart. “Keep this in mind,” He urged, “when the enemy seeks to cast doubt and accuse Me of lying, remember, lying is an abomination in My sight. I am holy, pure, and righteous, and My truth is unwavering.” The weight of His words enveloped me, filling the room with a sense of divine assurance.  (Proverbs 6:16-19)

Have you ever wondered why we often assume that God’s promises are intended for everyone except ourselves? It’s a common struggle we face: feeling that the assurances and blessings we pray for are reserved for others. In reality, many of us wrestle with the same doubts and conflicts, longing for our faith to be strengthened. We are not alone on this journey; the desire for hope and fulfillment in our lives is shared by many.

Romans 11:29 says He will not deny Himself. (Titus 1:2) He is not a man that He should lie or the son of man that changes His mind. Has He said it? (Psalm 62:11-12) God has spoken once; twice I have heard this. Not one word, — NONE, of all of God’s good promises will fail—ALL SHALL COME TO PASS. Every single one of them!

God’s promises are so great and pure and flawless that Psalm 12:6 declares it is as pure as gold refined seven times in the furnace. Think about the temperature of a furnace.

To refine gold, a furnace must reach extraordinary temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius (1,832 degrees Fahrenheit). In pursuit of high-grade gold, temperatures can soar to 1,064 degrees Celsius (1,947.2 degrees Fahrenheit), the very melting point of this precious metal. At this remarkable heat, impurities are cast aside, allowing the gold to transform into a purer form, ready to embark on its journey for further processing or shaping. This high temperature is not just essential; it embodies the power of transformation, unlocking the true potential of gold and ensuring it emerges free from impurities.

That is certainly flawless!

Precious means substance of great value not to be wasted or treated carelessly; it’s elegant and refined as silver.  Psalms 12:6 says, His report is as refined as stated, flawless.

Dearest friend, I want to inspire you to maintain a deep and passionate commitment to your prayers. Let the intensity of your heartfelt supplications intertwine with the blazing heat of the fiery furnace, and prepare to witness the incredible transformations that will unfold!

Let the heat of the fiery furnace and the fervency of your prayer meet in hot pursuit!

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

In the film “The Karate Kid,” we follow the journey of seventeen-year-old Daniel LaRusso, who finds himself the target of relentless bullying from his peers. Overwhelmed and desperate to regain his confidence, he turns to his wise neighbor, Mr. Miyagi, seeking guidance in the art of karate to empower himself against his tormentors.

Mr. Miyagi, however, has a unique approach to teaching. Instead of conventional techniques, he assigns Daniel a series of seemingly mundane chores, instructing him to perform tasks like “Wax on, wax off.” As Daniel diligently goes through the motions—repetitively waxing and polishing cars—he grows increasingly frustrated with what he perceives as pointless labor. Little does he know, these repetitive movements are intricately shaping his reflexes and preparing him for real combat, all while he remains oblivious to the deeper lessons being imparted. The process becomes a test of patience and perseverance, as Daniel unknowingly undergoes the rigorous training that will soon equip him to confront his challenges.

I said, “God, this is what You are doing to me, aren’t You?” I already knew His answer.

When you come to God with a request for a deeper faith, for the strength to endure challenges, or for the patience to navigate life’s trials, you can be sure that He will respond. However, it’s important to realize the way He answers is not going to align with our expectations or desires. Instead of providing a straightforward solution or immediate relief, He often guides us through experiences that foster growth, resilience, and a more profound understanding of our faith. The journey may involve trials and obstacles, but these challenges are part of the process of becoming stronger and more patient in the face of adversity. Trust that His responses are shaped by wisdom beyond our comprehension.

Within each of us, there exists a powerful warrior spirit that often lies in a dormant state, awaiting the moment of awakening. God is stirring this inner strength, urging it to rise and reveal its true potential. This is a spiritual battle we are facing, not one of flesh and blood, but against principalities of the air.

“Blessed be the Lord my strength which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight: My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me. Lord, what is man, that thou takest knowledge of him! or the son of man, that thou makest account of him!”  Psalm 144:1-2 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 J. Conard

As I sat in front of my computer, the stark blankness of the document loomed before me, a silent challenge demanding to be filled. Thoughts swirled chaotically in my mind—whispers of ideas, emotions, and inspirations waiting to break free. I found myself pondering where to locate that elusive turn-on valve, the one that would release the torrent of creativity within and allow it to transform into a coherent message. For a moment, I let my gaze drift to my calico cat, perched elegantly nearby. Her fierce, warrior-like demeanor captivated me, providing an unexpected source of motivation and strength as I wrestled with the void on the screen before me.

So, it began. The blanket document became clothed with a message of hope. My cat revealed her territorial instinct when something unwanted became too close to our domain. God is very protective of His children.

Trials, temptations, and closed doors aren’t abandonment. Trials become a soldering tool that seems valuable to the kingdom warriors. Temptation escalates a resilience in us we’ve never encountered. A friend and I discussed drawing closer to God and regaining ground. Desolate places become sacred ground, holy ground. Now, I understand more than ever how important our spiritual deserts and valleys are. Ruble, deadness, and absence are swallowed up when we invite Jesus on the journey. Stagnation flees when we speak, “God, I’m weak, but You are strong in me.” The overpowering stench from the drought will fade upon the arrival of The Lily of the Valleys.”

My dear friend, there may be moments when it feels as though no light can break through the darkness. I speak from the depths of my own experience when I say that overwhelming circumstances can drown even the most resilient spirit. The weight of despair seems to press down on you, draining every last drop of hope. Your eyes may swell with tears, betraying a heart that feels shattered, while a numbness begins to creep in, dulling your senses and leaving you in a fog. In those desolate moments, the relentless voice of loneliness may echo in your mind, insisting that you are utterly alone and that no one truly cares about your pain. But I urge you, do not give in to that voice; resist entertaining those thoughts, not even for a fleeting moment!

Jesus says, “I am the rose of Sharon and the lily of the valleys. As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters. As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons.”

We must declare, “I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste. He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me.” Song of Solomon 2: 1-6 KJV Make these places Holy Ground; it’s your domain. One day, you’ll be able to see evidence of God’s power when you didn’t! No Nonsense!

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

I was in an astonishingly vivid dream, like living in an alternate reality. Every detail was crystal clear, from the vibrant colors around me to the sounds that seemed to echo right in my ears. The sensations were profoundly immersive, making it hard to believe I wasn’t awake.

This is my dream: David’s slingshot sliced through the crisp air, its distinctive whirring sound echoing in the quietness of the army’s anticipation. He deftly twirled the stone within the leather pouch with deliberate precision, feeling its smooth weight in his hand. Each motion was calculated as he prepared to aim at his target with unwavering focus and determination. He ignored the taunts and mockery coming from the enemy’s mouth. At the right time, he put his aim in motion. The stone penetrated through the giant’s skull; then, David used Goliath’s sword to cut his head off.  It came after a series of tough days, during which I faced various challenges. In this dream, I was in a serene setting, surrounded by a great light. Suddenly, I heard a comforting voice that resonated deep: “I am mighty in you.” This message echoed through my thoughts, filling me with a sense of strength and reassurance that I desperately needed. God reminded me He is the power within me to overcome adversity. The dream left me with a renewed sense of hope and a clearer perspective on my struggles.

Zechariah 4:6 says, … “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.”    Zechariah 4:6 KJV

Countless moments in our lives, we find ourselves letting external circumstances dictate our emotions and actions, losing sight of the profound truth that our God is a mighty force, capable of overcoming any challenge. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and forget the strength and power that lies in faith and the power that lies within us as believers.

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

I sat silently in my office chair. The Lord’s words were clear to me. “Deborah judged a matter and won. She had a strategy.” Deborah understood whom to select for battle, as well as when and how to eliminate the enemy effectively. She carefully considered every detail, weighing each element in the balance to guarantee that everything harmonized seamlessly and operated within the scheduled timeframe. Each aspect was inspected as she strived for perfect alignment and a smooth flow of tasks, ensuring no part overshadowed another in the intricate composition of her plans. You see, Deborah was not just going to war physically. This fight was about getting Israel aligned with heaven.

Over the past five years, my journey has been shaped profoundly by lessons on strategy that I’ve received from God. One evening, I found myself in a quiet, reflective moment when a vivid vision appeared before me: a clock hanging on the wall, its hands moving with measured precision as it steadily ticked away the seconds. The relentless passage of time filled me with a sense of urgency and anxiety, and I couldn’t help but voice my fear, “It’s going to be too late for me.” In that moment, a calm, reassuring presence washed over me, and I heard the Lord’s voice respond gently yet firmly, “I’m never late; my timing is perfect.”

The ambush on the enemy’s camp must be executed with precision, following the specific guidance provided by the Lord. Every step of the plan requires careful attention to detail, and we must adhere to His instructions to ensure a successful outcome. Timing, positioning, and strategy are all paramount, and we must remain vigilant in our preparations, trusting in the wisdom bestowed upon us.

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Psalm 32:8 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.

Author Darlene J. Conard

The stillness of the night was weighty, with not a single sound breaking the silence. The absence of the usual chirping of frogs and the rhythmic chirping of crickets created an ambiance tailor-made for the voice of God to resonate through the air, calling out, “Samuel, Samuel.”

Many nights, it felt like hell had taken up residence in my home. The heaviness filled the atmosphere; thus, I had to recite God’s promises. But as always, I prevailed by the blood of Jesus. When the ordeal was over, I felt God’s presence especially strongly. I felt purified within and had a clear conscience. I have come to understand that in life, certain circumstances and events are allowed by God to guide and push us toward our intended destiny. 

Tuesday night, in midsleep, the Lord’s voice stirred within my spirit. “Darlene, Darlene, wake up and arise. Read 1 Samuel 3. Who will answer the call?” As I lifted myself from my bed, the soft light of the moon filtering through the window, I made my way to my desk. With the Bible in hand, I immersed myself in the passage, absorbing each word until I received the revelational message that burned within me, filling me with inspiration and insight. I’ll share it.

“Ok, Lord, what do you want me to do? He was silent. The next day, a member of Glory Carriers informed us that they were organizing a trip for intercessors to come together and pray for our nation. It was an opportunity for people to join in prayer and seek the well-being of our country and the outpouring of His Spirit. “You need to be there,” she said. God made a way for me, but a part of me didn’t want to go. The Holy Spirit said, “Darlene, you are called to the frontline; sacrifices must be made, and your comfort and feelings must be set aside in the ministry. Will you answer the call?”

Well, this is a beginning, I thought. Several months ago, He said, “Get ready; change is coming.”

I think God will ensure we get where we need to go. We must be willing to answer the call. “When I gave my heart to God and was filled with the baptism of the Holy Ghost and fire, I gave my life to Him to do something with because my life was a total mess!

Deep within each of us lies untapped greatness, waiting to be revealed. Often, it takes a challenge from a higher power to bring out our best qualities. Surprisingly, even our adversaries can serve as instruments for us to gain wisdom, grit, and resilience.

One of my intercessors once said, “The most frightening act is to declare, ‘Here I am, Lord, send me.” We do not know where God is going to take us.

I encourage you, Beloved, to seek God, and when He calls your name, answer.

Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying,” Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.”   Isaiah 6:8 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.