Author Darlene J. Conard

Sleep escaped me like a timid shadow, slipping away as the atmosphere of excitement enveloped me. The night felt alive, charged with anticipation, and each rhythmic sound of my beating heart resonated with the thrill of what was to come and all God had unleashed in a single day.

“God help us when we hesitate to believe You for the miraculous. Please help us conquer our human nature to manage things beyond our capability.”

 I quietly slipped out of bed, the warmth of the heat brushed against my skin, and settled into my study nook. The words of Jesus echoed in my mind, an extreme challenge: “…if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove, and nothing shall be impossible unto you,” from Matthew 17:20. Grasping the depth of this message seems to me unreachable, almost impossible. With a heart full of yearning, I began to pray, seeking understanding and clarity. In that stillness, I felt the gentle presence of the Holy Ghost, guiding my thoughts and enlightening the mystery of how something so tiny can move mountains.

Everyone has a measure of faith, but it’s how that seed is nurtured. Let’s not forget the tiny little thing will take root and become a plant.

Mustard seeds should be planted in a location with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil to grow effectively. Ensuring no weeds is essential; all weeds must be completely cleared away. As stated in Jeremiah 4:3, “Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns.” Thorns can overwhelm everything. We need to dig deep within our souls and eliminate anything that is not Christlike.

Mustard seeds must be provided ample distance between themselves to ensure each has the space to grow healthily. Just as these seeds require room to flourish, our lives need the illuminating presence of God’s light and the guiding power of His truth to thrive truly. Sometimes, God may lead us into periods of solitude, encouraging us to turn inward and seek a deeper connection with Him. In these moments of loneliness, we often find the opportunity for growth and spiritual discovery.

“In our time alone with God is where our best work is done and where God’s best work is accomplished in us.”

                                      — Charles R. Swindoll

When God chooses to deepen our faith, it often coincides with challenging circumstances that put our beliefs to the test. We live in extraordinary times marked by uncertainty and disorder, yet amidst this turmoil, God has a powerful opportunity to reveal His magnificent strength and unwavering grace.

Remaining anchored in your faith becomes crucial in the face of adversity. Stand resolute, regardless of the obstacles that may arise—be they personal struggles, professional difficulties, or even spiritual dilemmas. Imagine your faith as a tiny mustard seed, a symbol of hope and potential that can transform into something extraordinary when nurtured and allowed to grow.

As you journey through life’s ups and downs, remember that in God’s kingdom, all things are possible. Let this profound truth serve as your compass, guiding you through the darkest nights and fiercest storms. Embrace your faith as a vital lifeline, and witness the remarkable transformations that can emerge when you trust in His divine plan.

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

An acquaintance of mine, with a thoughtful expression on his face, remarked, “I don’t believe in Satan. Do you know why?” Intrigued by his statement, I felt a surge of curiosity. I wanted to unravel his perspective and to understand the reasoning behind his belief. I wondered how he could articulate his belief using Biblical references to support his viewpoint. “No,” I said, shaking my head slowly, my brow furrowing with a mix of curiosity and determination. Gathering my thoughts, I prepared to ask the question that would finally unlock the truth behind his guarded expression. As if in a stare down, I asked, “Why?”

“Because I choose not to believe in Satan.” I thought his answer would be, “I don’t believe the way he wants me to,” or, “I don’t believe he will win when we are truly trying.” His answer was, “Because I choose not to believe the devil is real.” It doesn’t work that way, “Nothing to see here!” This is not a feel-good message; it’s to awaken those in a spiritual slumber.

Paul Harvey made a dark declaration,“If I were the devil … If I were the Prince of Darkness, I’d want to engulf the whole world in darkness. And I’d have a third of its real estate, and four-fifths of its population, but I wouldn’t be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree — Thee. So I’d set about, however necessary, to take over the United States. I’d subvert the churches first — I’d begin with a campaign of whispers. With the wisdom of a serpent, I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve: ‘Do as you please.

To the young, I would whisper that ‘The Bible is a myth.’ I would convince them that man created God instead of the other way around. I would confide that what’s bad is good, and what’s good is ‘square.’ And the old, I would teach to pray, after me, ‘Our Father, which art in Washington…

And then I’d get organized. I’d educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting, so that anything else would appear dull and uninteresting. I’d threaten TV with dirtier movies and vice versa. I’d peddle narcotics to whom I could. I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.

If I were the devil, I’d soon have families at war with themselves, churches at war with themselves, and nations at war with themselves, until each in its turn was consumed. And with promises of higher ratings, I’d have mesmerizing media fanning the flames. If I were the devil, I would encourage schools to refine young intellects, but neglect to discipline emotions — just let those run wild, until, before you knew it, you’d have to have drug-sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door.

Within a decade, I’d have prisons overflowing, I’d have judges promoting pornography — soon I could evict God from the courthouse, then from the schoolhouse, and then from the houses of Congress. And in His own churches, I would substitute psychology for religion, and deify science. I would lure priests and pastors into misusing boys and girls, and church money. If I were the devil, I’d make the symbol of Easter an egg and the symbol of Christmas a bottle.

If I were the devil, I’d take from those who have and give to those who want until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious.

And what do you bet I could get whole states to promote gambling as the way to get rich? I would caution against extremes and hard work in Patriotism, in moral conduct. I would convince the young that marriage is old-fashioned, that swinging is more fun, that what you see on TV is the way to be. And thus, I could undress you in public, and I could lure you into bed with diseases for which there is no cure. In other words, if I were the devil, I’d just keep right on doing what he’s doing.”

This viewpoint originated from an individual who went through an awakening, highlighting the deterioration of morals and spirituality in America. However, this decline is occurring on a global scale. His goal was to raise awareness about the risks associated with deviating from core moral principles and the potential repercussions of such a decline. Harvey’s essay acted as a cautionary message to audiences regarding the weakening of traditional values and the importance of upholding a strong moral foundation in society.

The problem is, many choose to close their eyes and ignore that Satan is freely striding in wherever he pleases. Get ready, because Satan believes more than we do and knows what God can and will do more than we believe.

This is not ending in our defeat as long as we allow God’s holy salve to be applied to our eyes.  

“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

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

Do you recall the exhilarating game of tug of war we played in school? It was a pulse-pounding clash of strength and strategy that ignited our competitive spirits. As we squared off against our opponents, the atmosphere crackled with energy and anticipation. Each team, expressing determination, stood resolutely on opposite ends of a robust, frayed rope, gripping it with all their might.

With hearts racing, we could feel the palpable tension in the air, a thick layer of focus and adrenaline. The objective was clear: to pull the opposing team across the distinct line marked on the ground, a barely visible boundary that signified either glorious victory or humbling defeat. Our muscles strained against the force of resistance as we dug our heels into the earth, anchoring ourselves steadfastly.

Every heave and pull became a test of our grit and solidarity, uniting our efforts in an arranged dance of willpower. The thrill of the competition surged through us; each tug driving us to push harder and hold on tighter as the battle unfolded. It was an unforgettable spectacle, a vivid clash of wills that etched itself into our memories!!

In reality, we find ourselves embroiled in a profound struggle that resonates throughout the spiritual realm. An invisible struggle is taking place, characterized by a contest between forces of light and darkness. These opposing powers are engaged in a relentless tug-of-war, each attempting to gain control and influence over the balance of power. This conflict extends beyond the physical realm, inviting us to recognize the deeper, unseen battles that significantly impact our lives.

There is a war for our minds. Satan wants dominance over our minds: he knows if he can win, get us to buckle and tire out, he has succeeded in pulling us into his territory. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.  O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?  I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. Romans 7:21-25

I invite you to nurture and cultivate your spiritual resilience, laying the groundwork for your upcoming triumph. Take a moment to steady your heart and declare the word of the Lord; concentrate your thoughts and fortify yourself for the challenges that lie ahead. You stand at the precipice of a significant victory over your adversary, poised to confront them with unwavering determination. Visualize them back down into the depths of the very earth that birthed you—the core of your existence, the essence of who you truly are. Embrace this strength as you prepare to rise above the obstacles Satan intended to destroy you with.

Declare the decree of the Lord in Romans 8:37, No Satan, in all these things the Lord God says, “I am more than a conqueror through Him who loves me!”

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 Conard

“How beautiful the stars twinkle in the night,” I whispered, looking up at the moon as if to look in the face of God. Dancing shadows loomed on the deck from subtle breezes sweeping through the limbs of nearby trees. Crickets chirped with a steady rhythm, with rustling leaves. All this splendor! No individual could replicate it with their own hands. No thought in the human mind could generate His wonders or the work of His Hands.

We speak with the very breath of the One true God who spoke everything into existence. In the womb of the morning, He created our image. Psalm 110:3

Who am I? Who am I that the Lord would consider? Though I fade into weakness, His mercy still reaches for me. Time after time, I question, “Who am I that such a great God would descend from His glory to wipe away her heavy droplets of tears? You know my name. You, who created the angelic hosts that sing before Your throne. I often wonder what you see in me.

Often, the cares of life distract us from considering the wonders of God. At the end of the day, we are depleted. Our awareness of how much God cares shuts down.

“O lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.”  Psalm 139:1-6

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 at the edge of my bed. Heavy tears spilled down my face in weariness. I glanced at the words that stood boldly out to me for that right moment. “Do not be afraid, only believe.” Mark 5:36, “The Lord is my Shepherd,” Psalm 23:1, God is within her, she will not fall,” Psalm 46:5. His soft but bold voice spoke loudly within in spirit. “Darlene, trust the process. There’s an undeniable truth in the accounts. These accounts are shared by those who have experienced being instruments of God. Their experiences are remarkable and transforming.

 A friend of mine, whom I mentor, talked about the spiritual warfare she experiences. She stated, “Darlene, I didn’t sign up for this.”

“I didn’t either,” I replied, “this can only be explained by experience, it’s for oneself.”  I didn’t intend to write about this. Nonetheless, the Holy Spirit is urging me to do so. So, that’s what I’m going to do.

As I continued sitting on the edge of my bed, God said, “Darlene, trust the process.” My tears quickly dried. Jane Hamon recently released a video explaining that God revealed to her that doubt delayed the thing she prayed for. Her message instilled determination within me.

I want to encourage you to have faith in the journey ahead. Embrace the belief that God is diligently orchestrating events in your life. He aligns them perfectly with His divine purpose and plan. Stand resolute in this truth. Know that every challenge you face is part of a greater design working out for your ultimate good.

“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

Trees thrive in the presence of wind, essential for their growth. As the branches sway and bend with the breezes, they become more resilient, gaining the strength needed to withstand the passage of time and support their weight. This constant movement encourages trees to reach deep into the soil, developing extensive root systems that anchor them firmly as they stretch toward the sky. This rhythmic motion not only strengthens the branches, enabling them to endure the weight of leaves and fruit, but also improves their ability to withstand relentless forces.

These qualities can be likened to our relationship with God. Colossians 2:6-7 says, “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” (KJV)

Life often surprises us with sudden and fierce storms, presenting a range of challenging situations for which we may not be prepared. These storms can manifest in various forms—unexpected loss, personal struggles, or overwhelming responsibilities—that shake our foundation. In these moments of turmoil, allowing the tumultuous winds of life to strengthen our roots in Jesus is crucial. Embracing the test of life’s storms can bring wisdom and knowledge. In the future, we will be wiser and more powerful.

In times of turmoil, let us seek comfort and security by trusting God. Spiritual resilience fortifies our inner strength and anchors us firmly in a foundation of hope that shines brightly even in the darkest moments.

Author Darlene J. Conard

The vivid language that captured David’s struggles often echoed in my mind during my times of hardship. In the depths of our suffering, it feels as though our pain loudly whispers the haunting message, “You’re all alone!”

Much of David’s anguish is captured vividly in the pages of the Bible. A few weeks ago, I was suddenly engulfed by an overwhelming wave of pain that I can only liken to a tsunami. It arrived silently, yet its impact was devastating, leaving chaos and wreckage in its wake. The emotional toll was profound, much like the aftermath of a storm that ravages everything in its path, leaving behind a haunting trail of debris and sorrow.

Blazing daggers erupted from the lips of those he once considered allies, slicing through the air with an intensity that burned with betrayal. His king, a once-noble figure who valiantly led his people, shielded them from harm, and fiercely battled for justice, now stood as a fragile shadow of his former self. In a tragic twist, he had made an unsettling pact with darkness, surrendering the very ideals he once championed in exchange for sinister power.

Saul truly lost His life due to that very thing.  He was alive physically, yet dead. Darkness and desolation conquered his heart, mind, and soul. Rebellion enthroned itself in place of God’s spirit. Sounds exactly like Lucifer, who thought he knew more than the Omnipotent. His oldest brother Eliab mocked him, shouting, “Why are you here? Who did you leave those few sheep with in the wilderness? I know your pride and wickedness of heart. You’ve come to see the battle!” Eliab overheard the conversation. The enemy fears when we receive direction from God.  He chose words of guilt, such as leave, few sheep, and with whom? Eliab characterized him as something David wasn’t: prideful with a heart filled with wickedness.

Isaiah 54:11 promises, “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.” 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

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.