Author Darlene J. Conard

With every deliberate step, I took down the cracked and weathered sidewalk, the crisp autumn air filled my lungs as I drew closer to a mesmerizing tunnel of waltzing, shimmering golden leaves. The sunlight, like a master painter, filtered through the remaining leaves, casting dancing patterns of light and shadow on the ground, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring scene.

Softly, a gentle whisper from the Voice of Truth resonated within my spirit, reassuring me, “I have not lost a single battle, nor have I forsaken the righteous. Throughout time, I have remained faithful to My Word. I cannot speak falsehoods or be unfaithful.” Every word He uttered pierced through the cloud of despair, attempting to engulf me, bringing comfort and security. “Not today, Satan, nor any other day. I reject every falsehood spoken against me and my circumstances. I declare life, restoration, joy, and peace into existence.” No, God will never lose a battle!

God said this month would be unprecedented, but He also gave us hope.

Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.” What does that mean anyway, “makes the heart sick”? First, we must look at what hope deferred means. It means late, delayed, postponed, tardy, overdue. The word hope means expectation. The concept of expectation refers to a firm belief or belief that a particular event or outcome will occur in the future. However, as time passes by, the harshness of life will wear us down, and we must refuse to allow it.

In Luke 21, Jesus cautions that humanity’s hearts will falter due to fear. Yet, He also implores us, “Do not lose heart” (John 16:33). We must firmly internalize the belief that we are progressing rapidly by steadfastly expressing our praise and engaging in fervent prayer. We combat by reminding the adversary that we are recipients of a steadfast promise from an unwavering God!

The scripture in Proverbs states, “When the desire comes, it is a tree of life.” Life springs forth as soon as that longing returns and hope is called to the forefront!

Your promise awaits you!

Author Darlene J Conard

We often encounter the familiar expression: “The optimist sees the glass as half full, while the pessimist views the glass as half empty.” Looking at this from a spiritual perspective, we could say that we sometimes feel half-empty, as if to say, “I need to seek Him fully.” When the glass is half full, some oil is still there, but it’s not bubbling over. There is recognition of something lacking. Either way, fulfillment is needed. It can be challenging to take that first step to address the things that hinder us from entering the presence of God. I’ve been there so many times!

The void within us dissolves as the radiant light ascends to its peak. I empathize with the fact that some trials may seem insoluble; nevertheless, they will not overwhelm us if we focus on the positive aspects and take positive steps. The scripture from 2 Corinthians 12:9, in which the Lord says, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness,” serves as a constant reminder for me to acknowledge and accept my vulnerabilities. It encourages me to find strength and courage in my weaknesses, knowing that it is through these challenges that the power of Christ can indeed manifest and reside within me. We can look at those around us and say, “So and so will never change, or this circumstance will not change,” but I’d rather say, “Let me see people and situations through Your eyes, God; after all, You are the Creator.”

In all circumstances, we entrust God to fulfill His purpose and to resolve any challenges that may arise. We are optimistic about the great things that lie ahead! It is important for us to let go of our own desires and concerns, allowing ourselves to be open and receptive to God’s guidance and blessings.

“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 2 Corinthians 4:7 -8 KJV

“Knowing we are fulfilling God’s purpose is the only thing that gives rest to the restless heart.” -Charles Calson–

Author Darlene J. Conard

As the first rays of sunlight filtered through the window this morning, I sat in quiet reverence and poured my heart into God. With a deep self-examination, I searched the depths of my being, seeking clarity and purpose. In that moment, I humbly implored Him to be my guiding light in every work so that my actions may reflect His glory and grace. “God, I want my life to have meaning.”

We often lose ourselves in the hustle of life, succumbing to frustration, pain, and the belief that we must handle everything on our own. Our eyes are affixed to the clocks on our walls and calendars, thinking, “How much longer, Lord, are my prayers going to linger?” Jesus reminds me of how often He purposely waited to come to Lazarus. (John 11:6) He delayed turning water into wine. (John 2:1-11) Sarah conceived in her old age. (Genesis 21:2) This miracle was for an appointed time.

In a dream I had a few nights ago, I found myself standing halfway up a towering mountain. As fatigue set in, I halted and expressed, “Lord, I can’t continue. I’m exhausted.” In response, He said, “Darlene, you cannot descend, nor can you linger here. The only path is upward. You must persist in climbing to reach the other side, to the fulfillment of the promise.” Tears streamed down my face as I deeply reflected on the vivid and emotional dream that had left a profound impact on me. God embraced me with His strength.

I’m sharing this with you because I understand that you, too, may sometimes feel tired and question whether you are impacting anyone. Or maybe you think God has put your prayer request in a “get to it later basket.” It’s not so. God answers speedily but He does things the right way. Satan will nag at us by reminding us of pain or failures, convincing us that we’ve messed up so badly that God is teaching us a lesson. It’s not true at all! Remember, Satan is the father of lies!

“For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.”     2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV

I want to encourage you today to continue believing in God for what you are praying for. It will come to pass!

Author Darlene J. Conard

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

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

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

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

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

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

[1] Dawn Thomas is the copyright holder of the song; He’ll Do It Again

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Author Darlene J. Conard

Jacob’s family suffered greatly due to Laban’s self-centered actions. Despite Jacob fulfilling all his obligations and settling his debts with Laban, Laban refused to let him go. God, the revealer of all things, spoke to Jacob at this pivotal moment, offering guidance and comfort during this harrowing ordeal.

And the Lord said unto Jacob, “Return unto thy land of thy kindred; and I will be with thee.  … Jacob sent and called for Rachael and Leah to the field of his flock. And said, “I see your father’s countenance, that it is not toward me as before; but the God of my father hath been with me. And ye know that with all my power, I have served your father.  And your father hath deceived me and changed my wages ten times, but God hath suffered him not to hurt me.”  (Genesis 31:3-7)

 … Rachael and Leah answered and said unto him, “Is there yet any portion or inheritance for us in our father’s house?

  “Are we not counted to him as strangers? for he hath sold us, and hath quite devoured also our money.”

“For all the riches which God hath taken from our father, that is ours, and our children’s: now then, whatsoever God hath said unto thee, do.” (31:14-16)

Laban unjustly withheld not only the inheritance that belonged to his daughters but also his grandchildren.

From a spiritual perspective, today’s generation has been deprived of various things for selfish reasons. Children are being spiritually attacked concerning their identities, and quite a few are robbed of the truth. So many children do not know who Jesus is!

Rest assured that God will rescue them from the detrimental impacts of worldly selfish desires.

In life, we often fall short of our true potential; in doing so, we deceive ourselves and those around us. Many children wrestle with this. My heart is for children, not some but all! Many nights, tears flow down my cheeks as I think of the many children who aren’t as fortunate to have parents or guardians to teach them one of the most important things: the love of Jesus.

Jacob chose to listen to God when He revealed Laban’s hidden agenda.

My grandmother left me with something more precious than all the wealth in the world. She taught me everything she knew and experienced regarding God and the supernatural. I wouldn’t swap it for any amount of money!

When we follow in obedience, mirroring Jacob’s actions, we can discover a route toward redemption and satisfaction. Jacob’s steadfast obedience to God’s summons brought about a profound transformation in his life, providing hope and motivation for those encountering adversity. This narrative is an emotional reminder that even during our most trying moments, opting for obedience can open the door to positive transformation and a revived sense of direction.

I commend you for grounding your child or children in the Word of God and teaching them to pray.

I ask you to help me pray for those less fortunate so that God will send someone to plant seeds in their little hearts.

Author Darlene J. Conard

After turning from a day’s work, I lay silently still, listening for God’s direction in matters.

A friend who lives in Georgia sent me a video that a lady posted. She clicked on the white rabbit icon, which took her to an information site without words. It needed to be decoded; she couldn’t break down the message. I text her back, saying, “It reminds me of the writing on the wall in the book of Daniel. God interrupted the king’s party. He used stolen vessels from God’s temple to drink to his gods. Sounds familiar, I thought. (Daniel chapter 5)

As I lay still, praying for God to speak to me about what to write about, this is it. He’s loud and clear! This message may not have been received; God reminded me that Noah hadn’t heard either, but he continued in obedience.

Jesus said, “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”  (Matthew 11:15 KJV) Revelation 2:17 also says, ^“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches;” …

King Belshazzar’s arrogance got him in deep trouble. He was king; he could do what he wanted. God crashed his abominable celebration in honor of a nonexistent entity, a golden statue. In drunkenness, idolatry, and party guests, the finger of God came down to engrave a message on the palace walls.  He called for astrologers, enchanters, and diviners, but they couldn’t interpret the writing on the wall. One remained, whose name was Daniel. He understood because God wrote it in his language, Hebrew.

 During damaging storms, villagers were seen transporting their Buddas; they had to carry their gods. We have a God who carries us! He’s alive and well. He carries our burdens, but their gods are a burden to them.

I understand that times are uncertain and many things are in the balance. Just hold on. Believe that God is doing something on earth.   

Remember Alice following the white rabbit to his hole? She discovered something unimaginable! Keep searching for truth; you’ll find it.  We are about to see a shift like we’ve never witnessed. Things are not always what they appear to be.

As individuals, do we possess the awareness to recognize when God is communicating with us through His prophets? Can we claim to have such sharp spiritual insight that no worldly event can shake our faith? These questions linger in my mind, prompting me to introspect repeatedly. I am deeply committed to developing a heightened sensitivity to discerning the messages conveyed by the Holy Spirit.

… “he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:” Daniel 2:21 KJV

Nothing is hidden that God will not reveal! Every single lie will be exposed. What can be shaken will be shaken!

Let’s say the ground has been leveled where everything is in the open.

SEEK GOD, STAY IN PRAYER!

Author Darlene J. Conard

I sense a stirring in the atmosphere, a unique transition unlike any we have encountered before. I shared my experience with another prayer warrior, and she, too, felt the same thing: America is in transit. The activity in the spiritual realm is astounding! Angels are preparing to go forth in God’s command.

In the stillness of the night, I felt a stirring within me as God called me to immerse myself in His Word and pay heed to His guidance. This experience has reinforced the importance of seeking understanding and guidance from God, providing me with reassurance and direction in my spiritual journey.

The words’ Red October’ echoed in my spirit, a divine calling I couldn’t ignore. It’s not as if people haven’t already questioned my sanity. But that’s okay—just like the Pharisees, whose anger flared against the apostles, saying they were turning the world upside down. (Acts 17:6) The Word always does because it probes into our comfort. This divine calling, however, is a source of inspiration and encouragement in my spiritual journey, and I hope it does the same for you.

“I’m going to discomfit Amalek; look it up.” I arose from my bed to search for this, which matched God’s message yesterday.

According to the biblical account in the book of Exodus, God vowed to take action against the Amalekites for their aggression towards the Israelites. When the Israelites were attempting to cross the Red Sea, the Amalekites aggressively pursued them.

Exodus 17:14, … “the Lord said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.” (KJV) In place, He reminded them it was His battle.

Beloved, we are getting ready to see God move in a way we’ve never seen before. God is not finished with this country!

“And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands.”1 Samuel 17:47 KJV

If we look at things with the attitude, “I hope things change,” we are not getting anywhere. We have to know and say it’s changing. Several others have already confirmed this message. God gave them the same prophetic word.

I encourage you to pray because, indeed, this month is going to explode with the truth!

Author Darlene J. Conard

God spoke to Moses about the matter concerning Pharaoh and the children of Israel. God knew that Pharaoh would disregard his word. Despite his efforts to stay in control, God toppled his plan.

God made a covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, promising to be with them and provide for them. He assured them that their descendants would be victorious over their enemies and would possess the gates of those who opposed them. This covenant was a powerful demonstration of God’s faithfulness and provision for His people throughout generations.

Joseph had a purpose in Egypt according to God’s will. Egypt embraced the blessings because it received who God was in Joseph’s life, not separating the supernatural. This unity led to Egypt’s fruitfulness. When a new king came to power, he disregarded the unity that Israel had achieved and decided to dismantle the foundation that Israel had painstakingly built over the years, causing unrest and uncertainty among the people.

Moses and Aaron delivered the message that God had heard the cries and seen the people’s affliction; Pharaoh was to let them go. Despite his determination to remain unmoved, Pharaoh concluded that he was not up against just any nation. It was a nation that had been under the Lord’s name.                      

It was as God had said to Moses: Pharaoh would not let the people go. He had heard the cries of the people, and He saw the heavy labor. It appears the more they protested, the more the burden increased. God dealt powerfully with him to humble himself, but he refused. God cannot make any individual serve Him. He brings conviction and gives mercy.       

Pharaoh’s pride had taken complete control over his heart. While Israel’s lamentation and weeping had taken place, God offered mercy to Pharaoh. Despite Pharaoh’s effort to take control, Moses and Aaron continued to walk in the power of the Almighty. Pharaoh’s challenge to God was useless.      

Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, claimed that the Israelites sought deliverance because they were idle and manipulated them by increasing their workload. He imposed an impossible task on them, demanding they gather straw from stubble. This unjust treatment added to the Israelites’ suffering and intensified their desire for freedom.      

“Let there no more work be laid upon the men, that they may labor therein; and let them not regard vain words.” (Exodus 5:9)

Pharaoh sought to instill in the Israelites the belief that their ultimate fate was one of enslavement. He aimed to convince them that God had no plan for their deliverance and used a deceitful ideology of condemnation to maintain his control over them. By manipulating their emotions, he sought to ensure his power over them remained unchallenged.

The children of Israel were afraid when they saw Pharaoh’s power. This was the perfect time for the Lord’s redeeming power to be revealed.

For four hundred long years, they were held in bondage, living as Egyptians. Then, God commanded Moses to gather the elders. “Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.”   (Jeremiah 6:16)

Moses and Aaron’s achievements were to bring forth the word of God, and Moses was the guardian of their souls. When the word of the Lord came forth, the stronghold was broken.

 I know I will receive backlash, but it’s okay. I have to be obedient to the Lord and speak what He says. What people choose to believe is their choice. As I read this story, I saw America being enslaved in similarities. “Don’t think for yourselves and don’t. Don’t ask questions.” Jobs, finances, and pharmaceuticals, up to the children, are being affected by this oppressive leadership.

If God didn’t intend to heal our land, then why would this promise be in the Bible? It’s a powerful reminder that we can trust in God’s ability to bring healing and restoration to our lives and our world. “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”     2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV

Trust God’s promise, pray, and hold on tight! We are in for big surprises. It looks bad right now but it’s got to get worse before better. He’s getting ready to flip things! Stay in prayer and seek God!

Author Darlene J. Conard

Jesus dedicated much time to His disciples, understanding their struggles with fear, doubt, and a lack of understanding. Despite their assurances to remain by His side and not abandon Him during His most challenging trial, they, too, grappled with their assurance. This understanding of their struggle can reassure us in our spiritual journey.

When Jesus arose from the tomb, Mary was so astonished that she initially mistook Him for a gardener. Imagine the overwhelming awe and wonder that must have filled her heart then!

Walking along the sea’s edge, the disciples had questions and doubts about Jesus’s promises. Little did they know that their Redeemer sat among them as guests while they communed at the table. This lack of recognition is an emotional reminder that we, too, may fail to recognize our moments of grace and redemption, highlighting the need for spiritual awareness.

When we first experienced the undeniable power of redemption, we felt Jesus’s presence. Over time, we may forget His promises and grow weary. Numbness can attack our inner spirit, draining us of our liveliness. But as we sit at our table of sorrows, the Lord can clear the setting and replace it with new wine, meat, bread, and comfort. We may have many needs as we wander along the sea of life.

The Lord promises to be there when we need Him.

Take a moment to visualize this.

I have been walking for so long that I am unsure of where I am going, I thought as I wandered along the shore, absentmindedly kicking the soft sand before me. With each step, tiny grains scattered like fragments of my hopes and dreams, carried away by the sea breeze.

Walking alongside me, a man approached from behind as I gazed into the distance. To disperse the silence, I initiated a conversation. “Stranger, have you been walking here for a while?” 

“Quite a long time,” He replied, focusing on my feet. 

The situation struck me as highly unusual. I strongly wanted to question Him about why He was fixated on my feet, but I could not answer.

“So, how long have you been walking?” With a smile, he answered, “I have been right behind you.” Stopping suddenly, I couldn’t help but wonder, “I’ve been walking for quite some time as well. How did you manage to follow behind me without my knowledge? There we stood—a moment suspended in time. As our eyes met with anticipation, he spoke softly, “I was never behind you; all along, I walked before you. “Do you remember me?”

How could I have been blind, I thought. “Jesus?” With shame, I looked away and wept. He had been with me the whole time, and I had failed to recognize Him. I put my hands to my face to cover the shame. “Forgive me, Lord.” With deep sympathy, Jesus pulled me close with a tight embrace. That’s why I shed My blood.” 

Life often captures most of our attention instead of the Lord, even if we only glance away briefly. I was reflecting on the scriptures in Exodus, where the Lord revealed that He is a jealous God, but it is a rightful jealousy. It brings about pain when our focus is elsewhere. The Lord created us for Himself alone, which makes me feel special for the Lord to acknowledge that. He loves me so much that He desires our full attention. (John 1:13-17)

While immersing myself in the scriptures and seeking the Lord for deeper understanding and comfort, I reflected on the disciples’ experience of spending the entire night at sea, feeling their discouragement as they hoped to catch some fish. In the morning, a man stood on the shore, watching them as they struggled to fill their empty nets. Even after receiving the Holy Ghost, they still did not recognize Jesus. (John 20:22-24)

In life, we face times of discouragement. Despite praying and seeking answers from God for what feels like an eternity, we must remember that joy comes in the morning if we recognize our Redeemer, even when the nights seem long. 

Read Luke 24:13-34

Be encouraged to know that you aren’t alone. Jesus is present. Embrace Him when you do not understand.