Embattled

Embattled

Author Darlene J. Conard

Shadows of fear loomed, and whispers circulated among them; a brave warrior named David was known as fearless. His presence in battle inspired hope in the hearts of the downtrodden and instilled despair in the minds of his foes.

One fateful day, a dark force, Goliath, emerged from the depths of the mountains, threatening to engulf the realm in chaos. The Israelites, filled with uncertainty, turned to David in hopes of salvation. With unwavering determination, he accepted the challenge; a fire of courage ignited within him. Israel’s army was meant to be bold and brave.

David led armies into the heart of the enemy’s territory, where despair reigned supreme. As they approached the battleground, he stood before his men, his voice steady and strong. “Today, we stand in the name of the Lord. I do not bow to darkness, only to the king of glory!”

With those words, they surged forward, clash of steel and cries of valor echoing through the valley. David fought with the strength of many men, his spirit unbreakable even in the face of the greatest enemies. Each swing of his sword cut through the despair, his bravery igniting a fire within his comrades that could not be extinguished.

David clashed fiercely, light against darkness, each strike resonating with his people’s hopes and dreams. With one final blow, fueled by his unwavering resolve, he overcame his enemies, breaking the shroud of darkness that had threatened to engulf their land.

As dawn broke over the battlefield, the people emerged from hiding, their eyes filled with gratitude and admiration for their brave warrior. Weary but triumphant, David knew that true courage lay not just in the strength of his arm but in the power of God. He had not only won a battle but also rekindled their belief in hope and unity.

From that day on, David’s love for God lived on, a testament to the power of bravery in the face of darkness. It reminded all that true warriors rise to fight, uplift the fallen, and defend the Light.

This is how I envision David fighting. David was a fearless warrior. We are in a time where we must be embattled, equipped, and ready to stand against Satan’s attacks!

“Embattled” refers to being fully prepared for conflict or confrontation, embodying the readiness to engage in battle. It captures the essence of being entrenched in physical, emotional, or ideological struggle, suggesting a fierce determination to defend one’s position or territory against opposing forces. Pray without ceasing, stay vigilant, and stay in the word of God! Now is not the time to stand back!

“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;Ephesians 6:11-18 KJV.

The Price of Anointing

The Price of Anointing

Author Darlene J Conard

I never tire of hearing David’s timeless story. His life is a rich tapestry woven with lessons that resonate deeply. As I settled at my desk, the soft light from my lamp illuminated the gloomy, stormy day outside. I found a peaceful solitude in that moment of quiet anticipation. I remained attentive, yearning for guidance and wisdom from the Lord.

God reminded me of David’s intense journey. David received a threefold anointing that shaped his destiny. Each stage of his anointing was marked by significant challenges, serving as a testament to his resilience and faith. David forged his character through these trials, preparing him for the extraordinary path ahead.  The first anointing in 1 Samuel 16:13 was when God rejected his brothers. They considered David, a nobody, but God recognized that David was after His heart. They had a problem believing thirty-year-old David could be chosen. 

…  Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him amid his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward.”  (1 Samuel 16:13 KJV) The next verse, fourteen, says, … “the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him.” As soon as God’s spirit rested upon David, it fled from Saul. The Spirit of the Lord fled from Saul.

The second anointing of David marked a pivotal moment in his journey, coming as he reclaimed what had been stolen from him and garnered an abundance of spoils. seeking clarity, David earnestly turned to the LORD for guidance, asking with sincerity, “Should I ascend to any of the cities in Judah?” The response he received was filled with reassurance, as the LORD instructed him, “Go up.”

Driven by curiosity about his destination, David pressed on, asking, “To which city shall I go?” The divine voice provided clear direction: “To Hebron.”

Obeying God’s command, David set forth on his journey to Hebron, accompanied by his two wives, Ahinoam from Jezreel and Abigail, the widow of Nabal from Carmel. His loyal men followed suit, each bringing their families along, creating a vibrant caravan as they traveled. Upon reaching their destination, they settled in the various towns and villages that dotted the landscape of Hebron, transforming the area into their new home.

In a moment steeped in significance, the men of Judah gathered to honor David, and there, amidst the reverence of the occasion, they anointed him king over the house of Judah.

The third time, David became King of Israel. The twelve tribes approached David in Hebron, saying, “It was you who led us out and led us in. The Lord said to David, “You shall shepherd My people, Israel, and be a ruler to them.”   2 Samuel 5

Many people believe that receiving an anointing is a simple process, but I can assure you that a significant cost is involved. It requires dedication, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to God. The journey to attain such a blessing often involves trials and challenges that test one’s faith and perseverance.

…. “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” Luke 12:48 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.

 Days of Elijah

 Days of Elijah

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.

Sacred and Holy

Sacred and Holy

Author Darlene J Conard

In the thirteenth chapter of 1 Chronicles, King David resolutely decided to retrieve the Ark of the Covenant, an ancient and sacred symbol of God’s presence, which their enemies had taken. The situation was dire, as the children of Israel had acted wickedly in the eyes of the Lord, straying from His commands and inviting His wrath upon themselves. This tragic turn of events can be traced back to Eli, whose careless indulgence and failure to address the sins of his sons led to a catastrophic downfall for the nation of Israel. Eli’s recklessness allowed sin to fester and set the stage for the disaster to befall the people he was meant to lead and protect. The ark was stolen. (1 Samuel 4:11-22)

Upon receiving the devastating news that the ark had been stolen, Eli’s daughter-in-law was suddenly overcome with emotion and went into labor. As the pain intensified with each contraction, she realized the weight of the moment. Amid her distress, she brought a son into the world and, reflecting her heartbreak and the loss of divine presence, named him Ichabod, which signifies “the glory of the Lord has departed.

David carefully oversaw the ark’s return according to God’s instructions. Recognized as holy, direct contact with the ark was forbidden. Ancient laws mandated its transport on specially designed poles, allowing it to be carried at a respectful distance of 2,000 cubits. They crossed the Jordan River while it was dry. The Bible recounts a solemn incident involving Uzza, a man entrusted with the care of the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest symbolizing God’s presence among His people.

Along the way, they hit a rough spot, prompting Uzza to reach out his hand to steady it instinctively. This action was born out of a desire to protect the revered object.

His actions unsteadied the oxen. However, this well-meaning gesture was viewed as an affront to the divine order. Displeased with Uzza’s unauthorized intervention, the Lord swiftly enacted His judgment. In that fateful moment, Uzza was struck down, his life taken as a consequence of his action. This tragic event is a powerful reminder of the holiness of God’s commandments and the serious repercussions of acting outside the bounds of divine instruction.

The Lord began to speak to me through this message: churches are dangerously altering what is sacred by neglecting the supernatural. In doing so, they destabilize and interfere with the harvest. Oxen was used to tread out corn: proverbs 14:4, I Corinthians 9:9-10. If the millstone is unstable, we had better examine what we are partakers of.

For it is written in the law of Moses, thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care of oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. I Corinthians 9:9-10 KJV

We should humbly drop to our knees and earnestly seek God with every fiber of our being. God embodies holiness and righteousness, and He stands poised to take action.

Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it?”  Isaiah 43:13 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.

Satan, You Are Evicted!

Satan, You Are Evicted!

Author Darlene J. Conard

The enemy whispered in my ear as I gathered my garbage to take out. He comes subtly.

I quickly thought of the movie 1War Room, where Elizabeth gives Satan an eviction notice. “I don’t know where you are, devil, but I know you can hear me. You have played with my mind and had your way long enough. No more! You are done!” She evicts him from her home and strips away access to her family and life.

There are countless moments when we inadvertently allow negativity to take hold, opening the door for influences that can disrupt our peace. These unwelcome forces often appear when we let our guard down, catching us completely off guard. We must remain vigilant and prayerful, consistently watching our thoughts and surroundings to protect our minds.

Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. (Ephesians 4:26-30 KJV)

We must passionately defend the promises set before us. I assure you that every prophetic word uttered regarding your life will be tested through trials and challenges, like metal refined in fire. But take heart, for I have complete confidence that it will emerge more substantial and beautiful than before.

It is time to take a significant step in our spiritual journey by formally issuing an eviction notice to Satan, grounded in the authority of the courts of heaven. This powerful declaration signals that we are ending his unwelcome presence and influence over our lives. In doing so, we reclaim our peace, strength, and overall spiritual well-being. This moment marks a turning point: standing firm in our faith and taking back what rightfully belongs to us, facilitating a profound shift towards healing, empowerment, and a renewed connection with our purpose. It’s a call to assert our authority and ensure we can move forward unburdened by negativity or distraction.

  1. Stephen Kendrick  War Room is copywritten © For more information, please click the link:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_Room_(film)

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.

Praise Down Prison Walls

Praise Down Prison Walls

Author Darlene J Conard

The stroke of midnight represented more than just a battle against sleep deprivation. With a step of faith, I resolved to wage war against the forces of darkness, following in the footsteps of Paul and Silas. It worked for them, and it will certainly work for us. (Acts 16:25-34)

They bore their heavy chains and fetters without a hint of complaint, their wrists and ankles marked by the cruel bite of iron. This was no mere consequence of sin or recklessness; it was a prison of a different kind. They were imprisoned for standing for the truth.

We must move beyond our immediate perceptions—how things appear and resonate with our emotions and the sounds we associate with them. It’s all too easy to become fixated on our feelings in moments of difficulty, assuming that the circumstances we face will remain static and unyielding. Don’t let the surface appearances deceive you; what you see in the natural world isn’t the whole story or the actual outcome. Behind the scenes, higher power at work orchestrates everything for our benefit and the greater good. This biblical account reminds us that, even when situations seem dire, a divine plan is unfolding that we may not yet comprehend. I guarantee you that God is going to make it good!

Psalm 144:1–2: Blessed be the LORD, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle; he is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield and he in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under 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.

Pray So You Don’t Become the Prey

Pray So You Don’t Become the Prey

Author Darlene J Conard

I once knew a lady who shared a dream with me and allowed me to use it in my blog. We had a conversation about prayer and how her mother had stopped praying. That night, she dreamed of being chased by an enormous black dog. In the dream, they ran into the house, and her mother closed the door, leaving it barely cracked. The angry dog managed to enter. She asked, “Mom, why didn’t you shut the door?” Her mother replied, “It was just a crack.” That’s all it takes.

1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” Imagine a person who has consumed a significant amount of alcohol. Their once clear thoughts are clouded, replaced by confusion and impaired judgment. As they struggle to form coherent sentences, their words come out jumbled and slurred, making it difficult for others to understand them. Their decisions, which were once guided by reason, have become erratic, leading them astray as they navigate their surroundings with unsteady movements and a dazed expression. It’s as if the world around them has transformed into a blurry haze, leaving them unable to grasp reality fully. We often feel overwhelmed by the challenges of life. This state of being causes us to express doubts and succumb to temptation. When we neglect to pray and immerse ourselves in the teachings of the Bible, we become blind to the lurking dangers that may come our way. The scripture further explains that he “walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” This “may” imply a sense of permission—unrestricted access to prey upon someone’s life. Without the guidance and protection from prayer and scripture, we risk leaving ourselves vulnerable to those threats that seek to consume 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

Leaning Post

Leaning Post

Author Darlene J. Conard

My grandmother was a guiding light in my life. Her loving, caring arms always embraced and sheltered me, becoming a place I constantly relied upon. But the day she passed away turned my world totally upside down. My friend and I discussed this yesterday. Her grandfather, who is at rest, evangelized, and my grandmother pastored. They mentored us both. “I miss her; I miss them both,” I told her. I longed for her compassionate embrace and guidance.

After her death, I was lost, lonely, and a desperate Darlene. Those arms were no longer there to run to.

Often, we have friends or family members that we lean upon. Here’s the lesson God taught me. He said, “Darlene, a leaning post is unstable and sure to fall, but if the cross is your leaning post, you will be forever embraced, secure, and wise because the cross is a boulder, solid and sure.” Halleluiah! We have Jesus to lean on, and he’s without restricted mercy.

“The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.” Psalm 18:2 KJV

There is nothing wrong with having support; however, Jesus should be our greatest support.

2 Chronicles 32:6-8 KJV says he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate of the city, and spake comfortably to them, saying, Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.

The power of God is a steadfast and reliable force, a beacon of hope that illuminates even the bleakest times in our lives. This holy strength impacts our behavior and sparks a fervor within us to continue forward, resilient, as we encounter life’s challenges.

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.

A Call to Eagles

A Call to Eagles

Author Darlene J. Conard

“Doth the eagle mount up at thy command, and make her nest on high? She dwelleth and abideth on the rock, upon the crag of the rock, and the strong place. From thence she seeketh the prey, and her eyes behold afar off.” Job 39:26- 29 KJV

Eagles are majestic creatures! Unlike other birds, it has characteristics that we can apply from a spiritual perspective.

The eagle has excellent vision! In the chapter “As a Man Thinks,” I mentioned that imagination is a noun for the mind’s eye. I will break down some scriptures that lead to an extraordinary key! The eagle’s eyes are made to see at all angles, panoramic vision.

Several years ago, while filling out an online form to get my glasses, I noticed that “single vision” was one of the choices. After researching single vision, the scriptures in Matthew 6:22-23 became clear!

Single vision refers to seeing one distance, whether near or far. It means that your sight in both eyes creates a complete view without separation. As the saying goes, “The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.” As Christians, we should focus our minds in a single direction.

Psalms 32:8 God says, “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Eyes are not plural. It’s single. God’s direction is one way, no confusion! If imaginations are evil and imagination is the mind’s eye, if not taken under captivity, darkness will conquer, affecting the inward and outward body. God is saying He will guide us with His “eye”, not eyes.

But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! (Matthew 6:22-23 KJV)

Eagles possess an extraordinary ability to hunt. They soaring high above the ground with keen eyesight that surpasses that of humans by four to five times. They can effortlessly spot their prey from these grand heights, hidden among the landscape below. Once they lock onto their target, they execute a breathtaking dive, plummeting at incredible speeds of up to one hundred fifty miles per hour. This unparalleled combination of precision and power makes them impressive hunters in the wild.

Eagles are fearless and determined, pursuing their targets with unwavering precision. They are undiscouraged by size, consequences, or hindrances. Their ability to dive at one hundred fifty miles per hour without colliding with obstacles is a testament to their courage and skill. Eagles are not just hunters; they are fighters! 

Eyes are one of the five gateways.  The eyes, ears, nose, and mouth all play a significant role in the spirit realm. Hebrews 5:14, KJV … “strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”  We strengthen our vision through prayer, fasting, and reading God’s word.

 Eagles are majestic creatures known for their discerning taste; they never feast on dead carcasses but instead pursue fresh prey. Several years ago, I found myself in a turbulent internal conflict, wrestling with the haunting memories of a past situation that left a weighty mark on my spirit. I felt an overwhelming wave of anger surging within me—anger directed at myself for not choosing to walk away when I had the chance and anger aimed at God, “God, I obeyed You, and I trusted You!” I cried out, feeling like I had squandered seventeen precious years.

In my frustration and despair, I lamented to the Lord, recounting all the possibilities I had missed and all the paths I could have taken. Amid my confusion and sorrow, God’s voice pierced my unbridled thoughts: “How long will you mourn over Saul?” (1 Samuel 16:1-3). His question brought a stillness to my heart that stopped my tears. Unable to move, I lay quietly in bed, yearning for clarity as I contemplated His words.

I reflected on Samuel’s grief for Saul, realizing that what had happened was irrevocable. Saul had veered off course as a leader, making choices that led to his downfall. God gently reminded me, “It wasn’t Me who failed you, Darlene; it was a man.” At that moment, I understood that I was grieving over something that was not only lost but was, in essence, already dead. This realization began to lift the weight of my mourning, encouraging me to redirect my focus toward the fresh opportunities ahead.

We aren’t to feast on dead things. He’s doing a new thing as He spoke in Isaiah 43:19. “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” (KJV) God gives us fresh food, nurturing our spirit.

Eagles fly alone. They do not allow themselves to be hindered. It has its uniqueness.  Eagles can fly at a high altitude that no other bird can. The majestic bird has advantages over its enemy. When another bird is on its back attacking, it goes to high altitude until the bird falls off. It loses oxygen. That’s so amazing to me! Eagles don’t fight snakes on zero level. Instead, they take them into the air, where they are powerless!

Let this sink in! Psalms 32:7 says, “Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.” His presence conceals us, surrounding us with a heavenly orchestra! 

What a perfect example of how intercessors should be! To win this battle, we have to step into a higher realm. We can’t fight spiritual battles being earthbound. No, we must push into that place until we lose awareness of our natural surroundings, a place where Satan and his demonic powers have no authority! That’s when he’s under our feet because we are walking above the air in the spirit realm. Hell’s power is limited. He can’t access the holy place.

 Through worship, declare the Word. We can see, hear, and know the enemy’s attack strategy in that place! 

God had Nehemiah and his men on the wall, watching with a weapon in one hand and working with the other. (Nehemiah 4:17)

The eagle is faithful, staying with its mate for life. God wants the same commitment from us. Eagles nest in high places near water to protect their nests from predators. Apply this in a spiritual sense. God gives us revelations, dreams, and plans to incubate. Remember what I wrote in the chapter “In the Mantle of Darkness?” Those seeds have to have a dark, safe place to sprout. 

The parent eagles do not push their young out of the nest. Instead, they stop bringing food to them. The baby eaglets have no choice but to come out of their comfort zone to eat. They either fly or fall. Father Eagle is there to catch them.

 God is a loving Father. He will pull back each time, saying, “Step out away from the nest.” “Fear not; He will catch us if we fall.

Speaking of flying, eagles’ wings are six to eight feet long, which gives them the advantage of soaring. The wind beneath their wings carries them, so they use less energy. God is that wind that carries us.

… “the Spirit of the Lord may carry you off to someplace I don’t know.” (1 Kings 18:12 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.

 Enough Oil

 Enough Oil

Author Darlene J. Conard

As I stretched my hand toward the delicate oil bottle on the kitchen counter, I noticed the golden liquid within had diminished considerably. The remnants swirled softly near the bottom, catching the light in a shimmering dance. This made me think of the Parable of the Ten Virgins in the gospel of Matthew 25:1-13. Five of them had their lamps filled to the brim with oil, glowing brightly, while the other five faced the dire consequence of having empty lamps, their light extinguished and hopes dimmed.

The blunt contrast between the diligent preparation I once embraced and the neglect I experienced played on repeat in my mind. Just two weeks prior, I was overwhelmed, caught in a swirling tide of fatigue and restlessness, a state that seemed unshakable. A heavy weariness permeated my body, stretching beyond physical exhaustion to invade my thoughts and spirit.

 The burden can become complicated when others lean on us heavily—relying on our strength, resolve, and emotional support. It saps our energy, leaving us spiritually, mentally, and physically drained. Reflecting on this, I recognized the importance of balance and setting boundaries; giving too much of myself was draining me. God replied, “You are pouring so much into others, Darlene, that you are running low on oil. It was then I knew I had to seek the face of God with everything in me to be refilled.

Sometimes, God may call us to step back and create distance, allowing others the space and opportunity to seek Him on their own. This intentional withdrawal encourages their faith journeys, prompting them to explore and deepen their relationship with God.

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall  renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 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.