Author Darlene J. Conard

Last night during prayer, I witnessed a powerful vision that filled me with awe—a majestic bald eagle gracefully lifting itself into the sky after resting on a smooth rock splashed by water. Behind the eagle, a stunning waterfall thundered down, its crystal-clear water sparkling in the sunlight and releasing a refreshing scent of new beginnings. The eagle had just emerged from the water’s cool embrace, its feathers glistening like diamonds.

As the great bird soared higher, its magnificent wings spread wide, and water droplets cascaded from its feathers, showering the vibrant land below. This was no ordinary landscape; it was the heart of America, alive with promise and potential.

God proclaimed, “The majestic eagle that you behold symbolizes the essence of true freedom, soaring high above the constraints of the world below. The water that gracefully cascades from its powerful wings symbolizes a profound outpouring of My Spirit, showering blessings and renewal upon this great nation. Do not let fear take hold of your heart! Just as I performed miraculous wonders for My people during their liberation from the bondage of Egypt, I am now preparing to unveil extraordinary signs and wonders among you that will inspire hope and ignite faith. Trust in My promises, for I am with you.”

God is getting ready to reveal His power unlike we’ve ever seen. I have felt a surge in the atmosphere.

God has heard His people’s prayer for restoration.

“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:” Joel 2:17-18 KJV.

This is that time.

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. James 5:7 KJV

Get ready for the rain is coming and nothing can stop it!

Author Darlene J. Conard

From the very foundation of the earth, a mesmerizing spark of amber light unfurled in graceful, circular motions as though it were playfully chasing its tail. Wisping sounds traveled in the air as the flames grew, forming a magnificent fire pillar towering over me. The sight was truly breathtaking. “I did this for the children of Israel. I will do this for you; I will show my wonders.” Although the Lord spoke in a soft voice, it was magnified. His Words echoed, ushering me from a deep slumber into an awakening.

God’s counsel commenced by exploring our tendency to underestimate His immense power and greatness, especially when confronted with challenging or overwhelming circumstances. It is easy to become consumed by our present struggles and to lose sight of the limitlessness of His strength and majesty. In moments of difficulty, we often forget that His capabilities far exceed our challenges, leading us to a diminished view of His divine influence in our lives. This reflection encourages us to recognize and acknowledge the full scope of His greatness, even when times are tough. “If I could only get my emotions out of the way, I’d be fine,” I confessed to another intercessor. She reminded me that we are human.

God’s counsel and instruction are not to condemn us but to perfect and protect us. He is getting us ready for the more significant things.

The children of Israel remained stuck in the wilderness for forty-one years! I want to move on so that God can do what He needs to do in my life. I don’t want to miss out on anything that God is doing!

Take a moment to visualize this: When you’re at a game, your undivided attention is on your team or a beloved individual participating. Everything else becomes a hazy backdrop. But —if your focus shifts to the background, you risk missing out on the enjoyment of the game or the presence of those you cherish. The hazy backdrop becomes the focus; now, what’s vital is a blur.

God is taking care of things. The enemy will throw obstacles in our path to divert our focus from what God has assigned us to do.

The atmosphere is intensely charged as God prepares us for more excellent times.

“Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.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.” (Isaiah 43:18-19 KJV)

The things we were once accustomed to will soon be distant memories as God sets a transformative new era into motion. He has intentionally disrupted our familiar patterns and routines to compel us to step beyond our comfort zones and embrace the beautiful changes ahead.

Author Darlene J. Conard

“Answered prayer becomes the rule and not the exception for those who abide in Christ and are immersed in His Word.”    – Jennifer Eivaz –

Sitting in my living room and peering into the all-consuming darkness, I contemplated the biblical text I had recently immersed myself in. It struck me how every victory in the text stemmed from unwavering trust in God. I was drawn to the stories of young leaders like Josiah, who ascended to kingship at the tender age of eight, and Samuel, who obediently heeded the voice of God as a simple boy. Conversely, the account of Joseph, Jacob’s son, induced a deep sense of injustice, as his brothers robbed him of thirty-one precious years and deprived him of his mother’s comforting presence. Despite the unfairness, I found comfort in the promise of uncovering the unfolding of Joseph’s life in Egypt, as depicted in Genesis, chapter 39.

Deborah, a remarkable figure, served as a prophetess and a judge of Israel. I realized that the most minor aspects of their lives hinged on their obedience to God’s guidance. The contrast between human imperfection and God’s persistent call to share in His glory never fails to captivate me, drawing me closer to the text and its teachings. Judges 4

Our spiritual growth is involvedly tied to the challenges we face. Through these trials, our faith is tested and strengthened, leading to a deeper understanding of God’s guidance and our spiritual journey.

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 KJV

The journey of faith is not without its moments of discouragement. Yet, it is in these moments that our unwavering resolve is most crucial. We must hold fast to our trust in God’s plan, knowing He is always with us, guiding us through every trial.

These scriptures deeply resonate with me. They remind us that some prayers are answered swiftly, while others require patience. The passage from 2 Corinthians 1:20 reassures us, ‘For all the promises of God in him are yes, and in him Amen, to the glory of God by us.’ It’s a reminder that we must not give up but continue to seek His guidance and delve deeper into His word. Our persistent knocking symbolizes our perseverance; we actively participate in our spiritual growth through this act. The door will open in His time and never be shut again.

As we persist with unwavering determination, we will navigate the transition into the next phase of our lives. In the face of challenges, let us not yield to despair. Instead, let us confront and overcome Satan’s deceitful tactics with fervor and wholeheartedly embrace the inheritance that is destined for 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)

Let’s persevere in prayer and hold on to hope.

“I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” Revelation 3:8 KJV

These Words are written in red to signify that Christ is speaking. He is the One Who will set the door before us.

Beloved, stay cheerful, keep praying and obeying Him. Witness how He brings about a glorious outcome!

Author Darlene J. Conard

I resent feeling restricted in my ability to express myself freely. It creates a sense of frustration and despair, making the atmosphere miserable. The inability to openly share my thoughts and emotions takes a toll on me, leaving me feeling muted and isolated.

 After reviewing my feelings of frustration, thoughts of God began to surface. I remembered a crucial moment when He communicated directly with His prophets, guiding them with His wisdom. Eventually, a great nation arose, rooted in the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Through Moses, the Tabernacle was established. The Holy of Holies was a place in the tent where priests offered sacrifices for sins. God was on a box but also in a box. (Exodus 31:7) The Ark of Covenant couldn’t be touched. (2 Samuel 6:1-6)

Through Jesus’s death, burial, and resurrection, we have the privilege of having Him within us. He didn’t want to be in a box anymore. He wanted to be much closer. (Matthew 1:23)

He informed me that he understood how I felt, particularly the struggle of being unable to express one’s self.

In conclusion, God didn’t want to sit on a box being limited in a tent or temple. He tried to be Himself and express Himself in more incredible ways.

I do not want to resist God or his ways. We must let God be God within us, through us, and around us.

Author Darlene J. Conard

Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22 KJV

The word cast is derived from the Hebrew word YADAH. Yadah comes from two root words. ‘Yad,’ which means the open hands posture, direction, and power, and ‘ah,’ from God’s name, Jehovah. ¹

Yadah is mentioned 114 times in the Bible. It means to worship or acknowledge, often with extended hands representing praise and gratitude. In 1 Peter 5:7, we are encouraged to cast our burdens on Him because He cares about us. There is an indescribable power in extending open hands toward heaven during overwhelming heartache.

Sheri and Jeff Easter’s song “Praise His Name” has inspired me and given me the strength to persevere through many trials. No matter what happens, keep praising Him. Even when you feel like saying, “I don’t understand!” Continue to honor Him. Position yourself to give Jesus that impossible situation. I also remind myself of this—it’s essential to invite God to work through our circumstances.

1 Samuel 30:6 says, …. “David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.”  David reminded himself, “God is all power! No weapon formed against me shall prosper. He will deliver the lion, giant, and bear in my hands.  He’ll do it again!”

Hebrews 12:12 is a profound call to action: “Lift those hanging hands and strengthen those buckling knees.” This verse encourages us to raise our weary arms, which may have grown heavy from the weight of struggle, and to bolster our trembling knees, which might be on the verge of giving way. It speaks to the importance of resilience and support in times of weariness and difficulty, urging us to find strength not only for ourselves but also to be a source of encouragement for others who may be faltering.

Amid an intense battle, Moses demonstrated unwavering obedience to God by lifting his rod above him. This act of faith was not simply a symbolic gesture; it had profound implications for the outcome of the conflict. As Moses raised his arms, the Israelites thrived and held their ground against the forward-moving enemy forces. However, the moment his arms began to weaken and lower, the tide of the battle shifted, and the enemy started to gain the upper hand, showcasing the direct connection between Moses’ faith and their victory. Ultimately, it was through Moses’ persistent and faithful act of raising his hands that he secured victory for his people, demonstrating the power of divine backing when one remains steadfast in trust and obedience. This story is captured in Exodus 17:11, reminding us of the strength we can find in unwavering faith during our struggles. 

By surrendering our hands to God, we allow Him to transform what the enemy intended for harm into a powerful blessing.

1 UNDERSTANDING the HEBREW WORD, “YADAHידה and TODAH תּודה” (beauty4ashesministry.com)

Author Darlene J. Conard

I sat quietly in the pew, listening intently as the new pastor opened up about his struggles navigating life’s difficulties between the flesh and the spirit. He spoke passionately about his faith journey, drawing parallels to the biblical story of Jacob wrestling with God. I admired him for being so open about his mistakes. This is someone that I see as a powerful mentor and example for God!

He reflected on the moment Jacob wrestled with physical and spiritual challenges and demanded, “What is your name?” This question resonated deeply with him, symbolizing the search for identity and understanding in the face of turmoil. The pastor’s heartfelt sincerity and raw vulnerability revealed his profound yearning for spiritual growth, echoing the deep, transformative journey that Jacob experienced in his own life. He expressed Jacob’s wrestling match brought out a side of him he didn’t know about. It transformed him. As I contended with my challenges over the past few months, I began to uncover the more profound reasons preventing me from moving forward.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, and uphold me with thy free spirit.” (KJV) When we engage in the Psalm 51:10-12 prayer, we must approach it with a sense of readiness for a complete personal transformation. This prayer is not just a routine; it invites a deep cleansing of our hearts and minds. By opening ourselves up to this experience, we can trust that He will honor our commitment and guide us on this journey of renewal. Embracing this preparation allows us to grow and heal in ways we may not have imagined.

My life will never be every day because He called me into the depths of the spirit realm, which are unknown to man. The flesh cannot comprehend the things of the spirit. Don’t try breaking God down; it will not work!

We should experience deep gratitude when God uncovers the hidden facets of our lives. This revelation shows His desire to bring about positive change and transformation within us. Each revelation serves as an opportunity for growth, encouraging us to reflect on our journey and embrace the new paths He lays before us. Recognizing these moments can inspire us to evolve and become better versions of ourselves.

I pray that you fully embrace and experience God’s abundant love and grace in every area of your life, enriching your journey and bringing you peace and joy.

Author Darlene J. Conard

Throughout the narrative in the book of Job, I noticed that he frequently voiced his questions and uncertainties, expressing his struggles and seeking understanding. Uncertainty left him standing on the edge. “What has happened?” “Those I once was close to say, “I am guilty of an unforgivable sin?” At that moment in his trial, devastation was much more forceful than his faith. Solutions – none available; God hid Himself, is what he thought. He isn’t at the right, left, behind me, or in front.

Job faced a series of challenging tests that significantly impacted his reactions, causing him to respond in ways that were out of character and surprising to those around him—waiting with perseverance brought out the best in him. He looked all around himself except upward. Job learned to look up when God’s presence wasn’t so close. The inner man became stronger in Job as quickly as he knew God was on His throne, looking, watching, and waiting. 

As I take a moment to reflect on Job’s story, I find a deeper understanding of my own experiences. Throughout my life, there have been numerous instances where I lost myself—immersed in overwhelming pain, wrestling with challenging situations, and overwhelmed by frustration and anger. These emotions have pulled me in different directions, making it difficult to find my true self.

I’ve come to understand that there are times when the presence of God feels less tangible. During these emotional moments, He mirrors the actions of a mother eagle with her eaglets. When the young eagles reach a certain age, she no longer delivers their meals directly. Instead, she gently nudges them out of the safety of the nest, compelling them to spread their wings and take their first flight. It’s a moment of fear and exhilaration as they must summon their courage to soar. Meanwhile, the father eagle vigilantly watches over them, prepared to swoop in and catch them if they struggle on their way down.

When God reaches out to catch us in our moments of uncertainty, we find ourselves on a journey of discovery. God will reveal to us who we really are, but its through Him

“Being (Be) confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” Philippians 1:6 KJV

 Author Darlene J. Conard

Genesis chapter 14 voices the trouble Lot encountered during the conflict between the kings of the nations.

 After Abram (Abraham) received word of his brother’s distress, he immediately prepared to rescue him. He triumphed, restoring their possessions and the people to Sodom and Gomorrah. “Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought forth bread and wine; he was the priest of the Most High God and blessed Abram, saying, ‘Blessed be the Most High God, who has delivered your enemies into your hand.’ And Abram gave him tithes of all.” (Genesis 14:18-20)

After observing the situation unfold, the king approached Abram with a proposal: he suggested that they exchange the captured people for valuable goods. Abram’s response to the king was both profound and unbendable. He declared, “I have lifted my hand to the LORD, the Most High God, the possessor of heaven and earth. I vow that I will not take anything, not even a thread or a shoe latchet, from what belongs to you. I refuse to accept anything that is yours, lest you be able to claim, ‘I have made Abram rich.” This statement not only demonstrated his deep faith in God but also his desire to remain independent and not be indebted to anyone for his wealth or status.

God stands firmly with us in every struggle we face when we seek His presence. By lifting Him up and honoring His name, we invite a cascade of blessings into our lives. Amidst the enemy’s relentless efforts to dissuade us, we must remain steadfast and encouraged. A brighter, more inspiring vision is waiting just around the corner, ready to unfold before us. Genesis 15:22-24

And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for theit; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” Habakkuk 2:2 KJV

I completely understand that the waiting period can be excruciatingly difficult. It often feels like the enemy is constantly hovering, trying to manipulate our thoughts and influence how we perceive our circumstances. But I urge you not to believe those descriptions! What truly matters is not just the outcome we see, but the invisible work God is doing behind the scenes.

He is actively rearranging situations and regaining control over the events of your life, all in your favor. Hold tightly to this promise and recite it frequently, letting it sink deep into your spirit.  When the enemy arrives, armed with his bag of lies, he will find that he has no power over you and will have to leave empty-handed!

Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, “This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.”  Zechariah 4:6 KJV

Author Darlene J. Conard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One of my intercessors once said, “The most frightening act is to declare, ‘Here I am, Lord, send me.” We do not know where God is going to take us. Satan is going to try everything he can to discourage you. God has your back! You have His promises that all you need.

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

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