God’s Word is Living

Author Darlene J. Conard

As the darkness of night draped itself over my room, a profound yearning stirred within me to dive into the pages of my Bible, overpowering my instinct to surrender to sleep. I reached under my pillow, my fingertips grazing the cool surface until they finally brushed against the familiar, textured cover of the Book. The moment brought back vivid memories of my grandmother’s cherished way of selecting a Bible from the Bible Bookstore right for her. She would handle it with reverence, opening the cover slowly, her fingers dancing across the delicate, new, soft pages. It was as if she were searching for a connection that transcended the inked words, seeking consolation in the sacred promise.

The Bible stands apart from any other book on this earth, vibrantly alive and serving as a timeless guide for navigating life’s difficulties. Each page is rich with accounts of triumphs and trials, demonstrating humanity’s diverse experiences. It brings to life the stories of kings, valiant warriors, devoted priests, and wise prophets, along with countless ordinary yet remarkable individuals who confronted adversity head-on.

I often find myself profoundly pondering the unnamed figures within these sacred pages. Take, for example, the woman caught in the act of adultery—her moment of despair and humiliation ultimately became a catalyst for unfathomable personal transformation. Then there is the centurion, whose heart weighed heavily with worry for his bedridden servant; his steadfast courage in the face of helplessness speaks volumes. And let us not forget the woman who endured years of suffering from a devastating illness, battling the shadows of despair daily as she lost significant amounts of blood.

Their stories echo with us as powerful reminders of the complications of the human experience. What ties these individuals together is their unbendable refusal to be defined by their desperate circumstances. Through their unyielding faith in Jesus, they each discovered transformative paths to redemption and healing, illuminating the possibility of hope even in the darkest times.

As I ponder these narratives, I recognize that many people today can resonate with their struggles, seeking answers to their challenges. “I am facing overwhelming obstacles, just like the woman with the issue of blood. How can I escape this life of hardship?” they may wonder. “Is there a remedy for the grip of drug and alcohol addictions that will not bring further pain?” The answer lies in the only hope offered by Jesus, who stands ready to provide solutions for every need, no matter the depth of the struggle or the circumstance.

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, instruction in righteousness: 2 Timothy 3:16 KJV.

The heartfelt song “Dust on the Bible,” written by Mac Wiseman, is an emotional reminder of the spiritual neglect many of us experience. Throughout my life, there have been countless moments when I regrettably set my Bible aside, allowing it to collect dust on the shelf. This usually happened during discouragement, when my spirit felt heavy, or when the relentless current of daily responsibilities and exhaustion swept me away. In those moments, I was too drained to seek the comfort and wisdom within its pages. I earnestly seek God’s forgiveness for these instances of neglect, recognizing the importance of staying connected to my faith.

… “ 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 1:14 KJV

I yearn to transcend the outer courts, stepping boldly into the splendor of His throne room, a sacred space where His presence reigns supreme. Here, surrounded by divine majesty, I seek to encounter the ultimate truth that resides within His word, a truth that guides and transforms all who embrace it.

I leave you with this: as your fingers glide over the worn pages of the sacred Book, you are not just handling paper and ink; you are encountering the very essence of who God is.

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.

Legion, Redemption Is at Hand

last Continuation

Author Darlene J. Conard

Although the Bible doesn’t provide specific details about Legion, there are many possibilities regarding his life. The Holy Spirit inspired the story you’re about to read. Have we ever considered what it would be like to walk in their shoes? I encourage you to embrace these stories and make them personal. Join me on this journey as we walk in the Word together! Enjoy my new series, “Walking in Their Shoes.” Legion Mark 5:1-20

With a surge of frustration and agony, he flung the stone against the cold, dark wall of the cave. The impact vibrated through the cavern, and his scream of anguish was thrown back at him, echoing in a haunting chorus that amplified his torment. The shadows seemed to dance around him, mirroring the turmoil within as he was left alone with the echoes of his pain. The occupied tomb was shrouded in an eerie hollow sound, accompanied by whispers of the wind. As he stood, the bleached bones of the deceased lay scattered in the earth, their hollow eye sockets seeming to pierce through the darkness. A shiver ran down his spine as he imagined their voices echoing in the stillness, taunting him with words: “You will soon be one of us, Tuvya!” The chilling thought filled him with a growing dread as he pondered the inevitable fate that awaited him. Tears flowed down his grimy cheeks, leaving glistening trails on his skin. Overwhelmed by darkness, he felt the inner demons closing in, their grip tightening with each passing moment. He became physically sick. He didn’t know how long to fight before they consumed him entirely. There had to be something of greater power than anything in this world.

As the sun peeped from behind the mountain, the atmosphere shifted instantly, and Tuyva was engulfed by the overwhelming power of multiple demons, causing him to vanish immediately. Panic surged over the demons within him as he stumbled out of the dark cave, growling and snarling like a wild animal. He fell at the feet of Jesus, crying out, “What do I have to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I urgently plead with You by God—do not torment me!” His voice screeched, echoing in the wind, filled with fear and desperation.

The disciples exchanged glances, their faces a mixture of amazement and anxiety. Mark stood clutching the cloak Jesus handed him, getting off the boat.

As a physician, Luke frequently encountered patients who faced similar struggles, yet he often found himself powerless to provide their needed assistance.¹Despite his extensive knowledge and commitment to healing, there were cases where the difficulties of their conditions left him feeling helpless. Each encounter weighed on him, reminding him of his limitations as a doctor.

The scene before them was so extraordinary that they struggled to comprehend it. They stood frozen in place, their mouths slightly open in astonishment, unsure of what would happen next. The air around them was thick with anticipation as each grappled with the moment’s uncertainty. “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit.” Jesus’ voice resonated with authority, piercing the demon’s ears. He didn’t have to shout. The man, overwhelmed by the torment within, collapsed farther on his face, surrendering to a force greater than himself. “What is your name?” Jesus asked, unmoved. They felt overwhelming dread, hesitant to lift their gazes. “My name is Legion, for we are many,” they snarled. The brilliance of His glory shone like the sun, illuminating everything around them, and they shielded their eyes, for it pierced deep into their darkness, revealing the truth they dared not confront. “Do not send us out of the country. Send us into the swine so we may enter them,” they growled and pleaded to escape His presence. “Go,” Jesus said, pointing at the herd of pigs grazing.

The air filled with blood-curdling howls and wails as the legion of demons erupted from the man, a dark, swirling mass of torment and fury. With every screech, they surrendered their grip, fleeing into the pigs. Tuvya lay sprawled on the cold, yielding ground, his form now reduced to a limp shape. The silence surrounding him was not merely quiet but an unexplainable, unknown peace. Had the world itself paused to observe this stillness?

As Tuvya slowly blinked his eyes open, the dark shadows that once obscured his vision faded away, replaced by a brilliant, glorious light. The soothing sound of angels singing enveloped him, wrapping around him like a warm embrace. Before he stood Jesus, His face glowing with radiance, a serene smile illuminating His features as tears of joy cascaded down His cheeks. Peter gently steadied Tuvya, helping him find his balance on unsteady legs, while Mark beamed with warmth and affection as he draped a soft, flowing cloak around Tuvya’s bare body.

He threw himself in the arms of Jesus, weeping with tears of joy—no more Legion, instead God’s Tuyva. That greater power came to him in his darkness to bring him light and hope.

Many found him clothed and in his right mind.

“I know my Redeemer lives!

Legion, Redemption Is at Hand

Continuation – Across the sea into the country of the Gadarenes.

Author Darlene J. Conard

As the sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm glow across the water, He turned to His disciples and said, “Let us cross over to the other side.”

Peter and John worked together to hoist the heavy fishing net over the side of the creaking boat. The ocean’s salty spray stung their faces as they carefully dipped the net into the water to rinse away the day’s catch. Meanwhile, Matthew sat on the weathered deck in deep thought, scribbling in his journal, capturing every detail of the day’s events. Nearby, the rest of the crew gathered in small groups, sharing stories and experiences and finding comfort in each other’s company.

“Come, let’s go to the other side,” Jesus called to His disciples, pointing across the ember-lit sea. As the moments passed, the sun hid its face, casting a golden glow over the bustling crowd; they made their way to the boat, leaving the noise and chatter behind. With purposeful steps, they stepped aboard, bringing Him along just as He was, unadorned and serene. Dressed in worn fishing attire, they felt the familiar weight of their nets and gear, ready to sail the waters ahead. A few smaller boats trailed alongside, their sails catching the evening breeze.

“Where are we heading?” Thomas asked, panting slightly as he hurriedly sorted through their fishing gear. He moved purposefully, untangling lines and arranging the various rods and bait in his backpack. Curiosity bubbled in his spirit as he awaited the answer. Peter sat quietly, his gaze fixed on the massive spread of the night sky, where swirling clouds of deep indigo intertwined with the scattered twinkle of distant stars. The cool breeze brushed against his skin, but he remained engrossed in his thoughts. “You know,” he said, breaking the silence, “the Rabi doesn’t always share everything with us.”

As twilight descended, the night became blustery, with a fierce windstorm howling through the air, sending dark clouds racing across the sky. The sea roared angrily, its waves rising like mountains, crashing relentlessly against the sides of their vessel. Each powerful wave sent sprays of salty seawater cascading over the deck, drenching everything in its path and creating a slick surface that quickly began to fill with the very waters they fought against.

Amidst this chaos, in stark contrast to the tumult swirling outside, he reclined in the stern, comfortably nestled on a plush cushion. His serene expression and deep, untroubled sleep kept him oblivious to the wild storm around him as if he were wrapped in a cocoon of tranquility, untouched by nature’s fury.

Panic-stricken, the disciples rushed to Him, shaking Him awake, their voices trembling with fear. “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” they cried, desperate for reassurance. Jesus rose from his resting place and confronted the fierce storm tossing their boat about. He spoke to the raging wind with authority and commanded the waves, saying, “Quiet! Be still!” At his words, an immediate stillness fell over the scene; the wind ceased howling, and the waves became utterly calm as if the storm had never been.

Turning to his disciples, who were visibly shaken and full of fear, he asked, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still lack faith in Me?” Despite witnessing the miraculous calm, the disciples were filled with awe and fear. They exchanged bewildered glances and asked, “Who is this man? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” Their fear was not just of the storm but of the power they had witnessed in Jesus. Tuvya picked up a hefty rock, its rough surface digging into his palms as he clenched it tightly.

One more continuation…

Legion, Redemption Is at Hand

Author Darlene J. Conard

A discord of a thousand voices clawed at his mind, each demanding attention and drowning out his thoughts. “When will it stop?” he screamed, the desperation evident in his voice as he tugged at his disheveled, unwashed hair. Agony flooded his soul as the cave he sat in echoed his words. “When, Tuvya, when will it stop?” Violently, he shook his head, desperately trying to eliminate the voices taunting his mind. He reached for another sharp-edged rock to use as a weapon against himself and began cutting. “If for a little while it will relieve pain, so be it!” Grinding his teeth, he increased the pressure. Crimson droplets became an oozing stream dripping on his mutilated body. The coldness of the cave was familiar to his naked body. It didn’t bother him; after all, it matched his soul. Embedded in his wrist were tainted wounds from the heavy shackles he ripped off, defying their purpose. The iron cuffs, which were heavy and cold to the touch, remained firmly fastened to his ankles. The chains attached to the cuffs rattled with every step he took, serving as a constant reminder of his captivity.

He habitually reached down at his feet, grabbing one of the sharp rocks he collected to slice his flesh again.

“There, that’s better,” he said. Scars upon scars pleaded, “Help me!” But no one could. Every day, his identity faded away more and more as the darkness widened its mouth, slowly swallowing him to abide in its belly. Legion is who the voices said he was.

What was normal for everyone else couldn’t even be touched by him. His heart was swollen with grief, and he began wailing. The torment inside of him couldn’t be eased—no voice, no hope, and no deliverance, nothing left except to die in misery. Soon, Tuvya would be no more. Isn’t that why he was chained to the caves which held the dead?

If —someone could pity him, if it were possible, only— if. They laugh at him, through him, and about him.

The demons that possessed him whispered persistently, drilling the words into him: “It’s too late! There is no hope for you! This is your life, living among the dead; you belong to us now!” He felt a suffocating sense of despair as he wondered why he couldn’t just die quickly instead of enduring this slow agony. Tears streamed down his cheeks before his sobs turned into violent, desperate laughter.

“Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and billows are gone over me.” Psalms 42:7

Jesus stood still, feeling the gentle caress of the sudden breeze as it playfully tussled His black hair. He closed His eyes, savoring the moment as the wind embraced Him. Noises from the foreground completely faded. A desperate cry, laden with anguish and longing, sliced through the stillness of many nights. Carried by the wind, it wrapped around him like a shroud, filling his ears with a desperate cry. The sound rippled through the air, drawing Him in and compelling him to seek the source of such sorrow.

To be continued …..

Endurance

Author Darlene Conard

In addition to Job’s endurance, there was Jeremiah, who persistently preached to an unfaithful nation. The authorities imprisoned him and restrained him in stocks. The scrolls he wrote were burned in a stoked fire, and he was eventually left to die in the mud, ultimately being labeled a liar. (Jeremiah 7:27, 20:1-2, 36:23, 43:2)

The Apostle Paul was imprisoned multiple times, flogged, and came face to face with death numerous times, five times received lashes, and three times beaten with rods, sturdy rods. Assaulted with stones and three times shipwrecked. (2 Corinthians 11:23-33) Jesus endured great affliction. Beaten barebacked with a whip with nine strands of braided leather with metal claws is brutal. Undoubtedly, large chunks of flesh lay on the ground in pools of blood. (Matthew 27:32-66)

In Isaiah 54:1-12, we find a poignant depiction of suffering and sacrifice. This passage reveals how He endured oppression and affliction, bearing the weight of rejection and disdain from those around Him. He was bruised for our transgressions—a vivid depiction of the pain He faced on our behalf. The chastisement that brought us peace was laid upon Him, proving the weighty price He paid for our well-being.

He was deeply familiar with grief, embodying the essence of a Man of many sorrows. Despite His immense suffering, we failed to recognize His dignity, reducing Him to disgrace. In our lives, we often fixate on superficial concerns such as beauty, our appearance, and the opinions of others. Yet, in stark contrast, nothing about Him attracted us—no outward beauty to draw attention.

In silence, He bore this injustice; He did not defend Himself or protest. Instead, He willingly offered Himself as a sacrifice. As we reflect on His endurance through such trials, we are reminded of the strength it takes to endure hardship with grace and determination. Now, let’s explore the meaning of faithful endurance.

2 Timothy 2:3 KJV: “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Suffer hardship with me , as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Join me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”

Rejoicing in our suffering produces endurance; endurance produces character, and character produces hope. (Romans 5:3-4) Production is a process. Our character is built through every hardship we encounter. God is the Potter stretching, pressing, thronging, and there’s tremendous pressure.

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12 KJV) By the leading of the Holy Ghost, I searched out this scripture. The crown of life isn’t referred to as eternity. The Greek translation for the crown in this verse means to mark. Paul said, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14 KJV)

Press into completion. What awaits us at the end of every trial is far more rewarding than any perishable award. (1 Corinthians 9:24-25) Paul asked the early Christians, “Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?” Refuse any hindrances, whether it’s people, places, or things. It’s not a race to compete with one another. It’s about reaching the pinnacle of His glory, steps higher. Run well, with grace, love, and fervency!

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 without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated.

God’s Covenant over Satan’s Contracts

Author Darlene J. Conard

Some people may try to disrupt our efforts when we try to do something positive. This can be discouraging, but we can still create change despite these challenges. We should not be worried; if we stay committed and work hard, our good intentions can lead to meaningful results.

Paul wrote, ^“I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.” (Romans 7:27 KJV)

After the death of King Belshazzar, Daniel retained his favored status in the royal court. King Darius recognized Daniel’s exceptional abilities and selected him to oversee the kingdom’s administration, surpassing all other presidents and princes. This decision was not a chance; Daniel’s remarkable spirit set him apart. He demonstrated unwavering integrity, was free from faults, and earned the king’s and the people’s trust. Darius valued Daniel not only for his administrative skills but also for his character, which branded the qualities of a great leader.

Through God, he carried wisdom that penetrated mysteries that left scholars empty-handed. For this reason, government officials felt threatened. The kingdom’s presidents, governors, princes, and counselors all united in a meeting to conspire against this upright man, who wasn’t even a Persian by blood. They felt violated that royal protocol was given to a Jew.

Since nothing could be found, his innocence was preyed upon by a concocted scheme of trickery. Suppose the king is convinced to sign a law prohibiting prayer to any god or man for thirty days. If the decree were broken, they would find themselves in a den of hungry lions. The conspirators knew the king couldn’t back out of a signed agreement. They also knew Daniel prayed at his window to the Almighty thrice daily. Oh, what a perfect plain! There was nothing no one could do about it! Reporting back to the king, they announced that Daniel was guilty of breaking the law. I envision them rushing to the king’s throne room as swiftly as possible, shouting, “Treason! Daniel is guilty of treason! Remember, my king, you signed an unbreakable decree. It clearly states the penalty for the guilty.”

King Darius was furious with himself for signing the decree, but he did something fascinating. He declared that Daniel’s God, whom he remained dedicated to, would deliver him.

The decree remained in effect, casting a shadow over the kingdom, but it did not target him. In solitude, King Darius withdrew to his chamber, worried about Daniel’s fate. He dedicated himself to fasting, pleading for divine intervention to free Daniel from his dire situation. As the first light of day spilled into the sky, he raced to the entrance of the lion’s den, his heart pounding with anxiety. When he reached the heavy stone entrance, he called out with a voice full of anguish, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve with unwavering devotion, been able to rescue you from the jaws of the lions?”

“O king, live forever. My God has sent His angel to shut the lion’s mouths so they don’t hurt me because I have been found blameless before Him. Nor have I done no wrong before you.” Overjoyed, the king demanded that Daniel be lifted out of the den.

Remember when I said, “No worries”? It’s true. The deception ultimately came back to haunt them. Those involved in the wicked plot faced the consequences that had been intended for Daniel. Mercy vanished, and the lions devoured them. Their wrongdoing was evident in the eyes of both God and the king, as stated in Daniel chapter 6.

“Keep me from the snares which they have laid for me, and the gins of the workers of iniquity. Let the wicked fall into their nets, while that I withal escape.” (Psalm 141:9,10 KJV) God will also shut the mouths of the lying.

As I probed into the details of the signed and sealed agreement against Daniel, a troubling thought struck me: Satan often presents us with sinister contracts that seek to manipulate our beliefs. These agreements suggest hopelessness, such as, “You’ll never escape the burden of debt, you will never witness the salvation of your loved ones, and you will never find accomplish in anything!”

Yet, we must refuse to accept these lies. Instead, we should stand firm and align ourselves with God’s powerful declarations. By doing so, we embrace hope and faith in adversity. Suppose we remain resolute in our beliefs and convictions. In that case, we can trust that God will eventually uncover every hidden secret and expose the malicious acts that have been carried out against us, illuminating the truth for all to witness.

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 without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated.

Change is in the Air

Author Darlene J. Conard

The heavy rain cascaded relentlessly against the roof, producing a rhythmic symphony that filled the air. Each drop collided with the surface, creating a gentle, persistent drumming that seemed to echo the world outside. As I glanced around my dimly lit bedroom, I noticed tiny beads of water streaming down the glass of the windows, each one reflecting the faint light and creating a stunning display. The glistening droplets contrasted beautifully with the deep shadows, bringing life and vibrancy to the otherwise quiet room and signifying a deep sense of renewal and possibility.

This year, Thanksgiving felt distinctly different for me. I believe the shift in my experience stems from finally embracing who I am and recognizing the unique path that God has laid out for my life. I felt an overwhelming gratitude for the blessings in my life and the journey that led me to this moment of self-acceptance. A newfound clarity has emerged, allowing me to appreciate my individuality and the purpose I am meant to fulfill. It’s not just a celebration of abundance; it reflects my personal growth, and I have gained a deeper understanding of my place in the world. I haven’t been the same since my trip to Bruceton Mills, WV.

To the best of my ability, I am sharing my understanding of God’s transformative power in our lives. If we allow Him to take control and do not try to take the wheel, thinking it’s our place to direct our paths.

God is actively at work in the world around us, bringing about significant change. We are witnessing a noticeable shift in the atmosphere that impacts our daily experiences and interactions. This shift involves changes in our circumstances, which present new challenges we must adapt to and overcome. As we deal with these changes, we understand more about our purpose and the direction in which our lives are going. This reminds us that a divine plan is unfolding around us. In Isaiah 43:19, God declares, “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.”

“Are you unaware that I am beginning a significant change on earth? Because of this transformation, the very heavens are in unrest?” Heaven is being shaken at this moment because darkness is being defeated. At one time, this statement puzzled me; I couldn’t grasp it —until now. “Angels are waiting for you to send them on assignment.” When we speak the promises of God and pray with sincerity, angels have clearance to begin working on our behalf.

If you feel overwhelmed, things are hopeless, and never changing, remember you have God’s Word.

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 without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated.

Protecting my Sacrifice

Author Darlene J. Conard

Abram stood firm in the golden light of dawn, his arms outstretched like a protective barrier as he shooed away the circling birds that swooped down with greedy hunger. Each flap of their wings filled the air with a chorus of rustling, yet he remained undiscouraged, determined to safeguard his carefully arranged offering from their pecking beaks.

With unwavering faith pulsing through his veins, he precisely gathered each requirement God asked for the sacrifice. A sense of purpose fueled him as he worked, pushing back against the creeping fatigue that may threaten to cloud his thoughts and compromise his focus. Each breath was a testament to his devotion, and with each gathered item, he felt a deeper connection to the sacred ritual ahead.

“I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” (Psalm 91:2-3)

Abram sought guidance from God, the Higher Power, and found the answers he needed by talking to God rather than waiting to receive messages. His journey illustrates that seeking answers requires action and commitment. In our pursuit of understanding from God, we must be vigilant in safeguarding our sacrifices, recognizing that actual growth often involves making difficult choices. This means consciously choosing the path of victory over the temptation of defeat and embracing the challenges that come with faith and perseverance. Doing so opens us to the profound clarity and direction that can lead us to fulfillment.

And he said unto him, “I am the Lord that brought thee out of Ur of the Chaldees, to give thee this land to inherit it.”

… “Lord God, whereby shall I know that I shall inherit it?” And he said unto him, “Take me a heifer of three years old, and she goat of three years old, and a ram of three years old, and a turtle dove, and a young pigeon. … he took unto him all these things, divide them in the midst, and laid each piece one against another: but the birds he divided not. … “When the fowls came down upon the carcasses, Abram drove them away. (Genesis 15:7-11)

Abram demonstrated unwavering determination by refusing to let the birds of prey snatch away the offerings he had meticulously prepared for God. He understood the significance of his efforts and recognized that something profound awaited him at the altar. In our own lives, we, too, must be vigilant against the subtle threats that seek to undermine our spiritual devotion. The adversary, represented as a relentless force, actively seeks to rob us of our offerings—those heartfelt sacrifices and expressions of praise we present to the Divine.

This notion of “noisome pestilence” symbolizes those distractions and discouragements that can wear us down, causing us to lose focus and diminish our steadfastness. It is critical to actively combat these negative influences and assertively drive away the enemy, ensuring he is denied access to our sacred acts of worship. By standing firm and protecting our sacrifices, we reinforce the importance of fully dedicating our hearts and voices to praise, safeguarding the treasures that we offer to God.

Hold firm in your determination, and express your heartfelt gratitude and admiration. At the heart of this unwavering stance lies a powerful promise!

Don’t Stay Unsatisfied

Author Darlene J. Conard

In the city of Caesarea, there lived a devout man named Cornelius, who was known for his unwavering commitment to faith. Despite his devoutness, he felt a profound dissatisfaction deep within his spirit, aware that there was more to salvation than he had experienced. Cornelius devoted himself to prayer, seeking a closer relationship with God; he approached Him with reverence and humility.

He remained steadfast in his faith daily, adhering to his known spiritual practices and teachings. His dedication was evident in how he big-heartedly gave alms to those in need, ensuring his compassion was felt throughout his community. Cornelius’s prayers and charitable acts ascended like sweet incense before the throne of God, catching His attention.

God was pleased to witness Cornelius’s unquenchable desire for His redeeming power and grace, recognizing the sincerity of his heart and the depth of his yearning for a greater connection with heaven.

A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God always. He saw in a vision evidently about the nineth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, “Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it Lord?” … “Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.” Acts 10:2-4 KJV

As we embark on the deep and sometimes challenging journey of seeking God’s will in our lives, it becomes crucial to cultivate a spirit of steadfastness and resilience, ensuring that we do not lose heart, even when the path ahead seems long or unclear. This spiritual exploration often requires engaging in practices such as dedicated prayer, which draws us closer to God and calls for a significant level of patience and unwavering persistence.

The prayer journey involves more than just spoken words; it is a sacred action where we lay bare our hearts, seek guidance, and listen for the gentle whispers of God’s voice amidst the noise of daily life.

Amid our efforts, it is vital to remind ourselves that every offer we make—whether it is the time taken to meditate in silence, the energy invested in helping others, or the personal sacrifices we endure—holds excellent value in the eyes of God, mainly when approached with a sincere heart and genuine intent. Each moment spent in prayer, each meal skipped in devotion, and every ounce of energy directed into acts of kindness become powerful expressions of our faith, worthy of acknowledgment and appreciation in the framework of the plans that may unfold even beyond our understanding. By recognizing the significance of these spiritual actions, we can connect with God and navigate our journey with hope and purpose.

As we navigate this path, we should open ourselves to God’s guidance, trusting His divine wisdom and timing. Understanding and embracing the transformative power of reconciliation is crucial — both with ourselves and others. The souls for whom we pray are deeply affected by the undeniable presence of God’s love and grace, even if we can’t always see the changes happening in their hearts.

Let us encourage ourselves not to give up amidst challenges. God promises us the strength to push through the extra mile, ensuring our efforts do not go unnoticed. Trust in His plan and timing, and hold onto hope as we continue this sacred journey.

All Powerful God

Author Darlene J. Conard

As I strolled through the awakening morning, I relished each step, taking in the rich tapestry of aromas that autumn brings, filling my lungs with the cool, crisp air. The scent of fallen leaves and distant wood smoke enveloped me, creating a warm embrace that signaled the changing season. Sunlight danced across the sidewalk, casting playful shadows and illuminating the path ahead, a vivid reminder of God’s guiding light in my life. I paused to reflect on the myriad experiences of my journey with Jesus—the moments of triumph and the times of struggle. Like a note in a symphony, each one contributed to a deepening of my faith and an increase in godly wisdom, shaping me into who I am today.

We find ourselves in an extraordinary and unprecedented situation in today’s world. As we move through life, we encounter various challenges, from deeply personal issues caused by those we trusted to broader problems that impact our communities and society as a whole. Today, there is a heavy atmosphere of despair and a widespread sense of hopelessness that affects many people. Yet, amidst all these struggles, there exists a greater power—a force that can inspire resilience and foster hope. This power has the potential to uplift us, guide us towards solutions, and remind us of our capacity to overcome adversity, even in the darkest of times.

Omnipotence -All Powerful

Psalm 115:3, “But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.”

Omniscient- All-Knowing

Isaiah 55:8-9, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

Omnipresent- Ever Present

1 Kings 8:27, “But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded?”

God’s attributes are overwhelmingly remarkable and awe-inspiring, reflecting a depth of greatness that is truly unparalleled. His wisdom exceeds human understanding, His love is unconditional and boundless, and His justice is perfect and fair. In every aspect, God’s nature stands alone, unmatched by any earthly being or force. The vastness of His mercy and the brilliance of His creativity serve as a demonstration of His magnificent essence, reminding us of the extraordinary qualities that define Him.

In the King James Version of the Bible, Hebrews 6:13 states, “For when God made a promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he swore by himself,” emphasizing God’s unmatched greatness as the all-knowing, ever-present, and all-powerful being. He proclaimed with absolute certainty that the promises made to Abraham were nonnegotiable. It’s truly remarkable that God already knew Abraham’s unwavering commitment, even in moments of human frailty.

Find encouragement in the understanding that the same God who walked alongside Abraham in his journey is the very same God who governs the circumstances you face today. After praying earnestly seeking His guidance, pause to lift your voice in praise and express your heartfelt gratitude. His promises remain steadfast and unchanging, providing you with a solid foundation of hope and assurance.

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 without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated.