Author Darlene J Conard

The weight of silence in the air can be unbearable for our souls, making us feel like the world has gone quiet, and we’re left alone with our thoughts and questions. You may feel like nobody can relate to the inner struggle, as questions about hope and the unknown constantly alarm you. The lingering darkness seems to mock you and make you wonder if you’ll ever find a way out.

 Even his friends turned against him, pointing to his afflictions and saying, “He has sinned.” Despite everything, God remained with Job as a constant presence amid his struggle. Job never lost faith in God, even when everything he knew was gone.

We cannot trust or rely on what we see, hear, think, or feel. A veil surrounds God and His works. In time, He will reveal His glory in those impossible situations.

“For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:8-10 KJV

Keep holding on, because God will not leave you there. This trial has been permitted because He believes in you. Beloved, when this dark trial is over, you will find yourself bearing much fruit!

Author Darlene J. Conard

As I carefully dried the last of the dishes, a profound question surfaced: Why do we allow ourselves to worry despite knowing it won’t bring solutions? It’s one of Satan’s devious strategies, enticing us to fret over matters that are beyond our control.

I used to find myself frequently consumed by worry, but now I’m proud to declare that I have achieved complete deliverance from this burden. Upon reflection, I’ve come to understand the root of this struggle. It’s often challenging to relinquish control, mainly when we’ve grown accustomed to dictating every aspect of our lives.  Surrendering evokes feelings of vulnerability and a fear of spinning out of control, which causes anxiety.

Resolving matters outside our control is beyond our power; only God can handle that.

God promises to take care of us and meet our every need!

When Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for Passover, twelve-year-old Jesus stayed behind to minister. When they found Him, they asked, “Why did you do this? We were worried.” He replied, “Why were you searching for me? Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” (Read Luke 2:41-52)

Jesus’ answer is one we must remember; we must be about our Father’s business. I will never forget what Evangelist Benson Auxier once preached in a revival service. “You take care of God’s business; He’ll take care of yours. God needs us to take care of the possible while He works on the impossible!

I have learned that worrying is the enemy’s strategy to tangle us in a web of confusion.

“The sower soweth the word. And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended. And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.” Mark 4:14-19 KJV

I desire to remain free from becoming overly preoccupied with the demands and worries of daily life so that I can entirely focus on seizing the opportunity to reach and impact the harvest of souls whom God is actively engaging with and seeking to transform. 

Author Darlene J. Conard

I read an old fable about a donkey and a tiger engaged in a heated debate in a jungle. The donkey insisted that the grass was blue, while the tiger adamantly argued that it was green. Unable to settle their disagreement, they decided to bring their dispute to the jungle king.

The donkey approached the lion, who was the king, and asked if it was true that the grass was blue. To the donkey’s satisfaction, the lion affirmed that the grass was blue. The donkey then implored the lion to punish the tiger for contradicting and annoying him, to which the king agreed and sentenced the tiger to five years of silence.

The donkey, overjoyed by the outcome, happily went on his way, while the tiger accepted his punishment. Before departing, the tiger approached the lion and questioned why he was being punished, asserting that the grass was, in fact, green. Surprisingly, the lion acknowledged that the grass was green but explained that the punishment was not about the color of the grass. The lion emphasized that it was a waste of time for the tiger, a brave and intelligent creature, to engage in arguments with the donkey, who was not concerned with truth or reality. The lion used this as a lesson for the tiger that time is wasted by arguing with those who are not receptive to reason.

The story’s moral resonated deeply with me, reminding me of a biblical verse from Matthew 7:6 KJV, “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” This served as a powerful lesson, highlighting the futility of trying to convince those who are deeply entrenched in their beliefs, even if those beliefs are far from the truth. It is reminiscent of Proverbs 14:15 KJV, “The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going,” and Proverbs 14:18 KJV, “The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.”

Reflecting on this, I have learned the importance of discerning when to remain silent. It has become evident to me that God is our ultimate defender, and by staying rooted in Christ and truth, illusions and false beliefs will not prevail.

Author Darlene Juanita Conard

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.”  Psalm 19:14 KJV

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” is an understatement.

In Matthew 12:37, Jesus delivers an emotional message about the power of our words, stating, “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” This serves as a thought-provoking reminder of our speech’s immense influence over ourselves and those around us. It underscores the significance of every word we utter, as they can bring about either positive or negative outcomes.

The concept is deeply rooted in the profound symbolism of the breath that we speak with, which mirrors the breath of life given to us, as described in Genesis 2:7. This connection highlights the significance and responsibility accompanying our spoken words, shaping our interactions and relationships.

Take a moment to imagine the power of speaking positively and declaring God’s promises. It has the potential to bring about transformation. Not only does it initiate healing within us and others, but it also has the ability to shift circumstances in our favor.

Seek God’s guidance to fill your heart with peace and bring restoration. His divine influence can help us control our speech and use it for positive and healing purposes.

“He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.”  Proverbs 13:3 KJV

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Author Darlene J. Conard

Amid a bustling street, a concerned crowd encircled Bartimaeus, their voices blending with the surrounding noise as they sought to suppress him. “Shhh, be quiet,” they pleaded, the urgency evident in their tones. However, their attempts were useless as Bartimaeus’s cry gained in volume, echoing through the atmosphere with an air of defiance.

In today’s society, there is a movement to silence us. There is social pressure to respect and use correct pronouns for all individuals, including their pets, and to be cautious in addressing LGBTQ+ issues. For instance, mislabeling someone by referring to them using incorrect gender pronouns (e.g., calling “he” as “she” or vice versa) is counted as an offense.

I recently came across a video of a waiter accused of discrimination because he did not use the pronouns preferred by a customer. Seeing how much confusion and conflict exists in our society around issues such as these is concerning.

The message does not branch from hate or discrimination; it revolves around individuals wrestling with confusion regarding their identity. The influence of negative forces has muddied the clarity of their thoughts and perceptions. Right is being called wrong, and wrong is being called right.

“Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Isaiah 5:20 KJV

We should pray that those who do not know right from wrong may see the light and be converted. All souls matter to God. We cannot stand by in silence.

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.

His counsel began by discussing how we often belittle His power and greatness in the face of present circumstances. “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 is not to condemn us but to perfect and protect us. He is getting us ready for the more significant.

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 charged with intensity as we are being prepared by God for greater 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 a distant memory, as God sets into motion a transformative new era. He has intentionally disrupted our familiar patterns and routines to compel us to step beyond our comfort zones and embrace the wonderful changes ahead.

Author Darlene J. Conard

During this uncertain time, we face new surprises every day. The presence of the Holy Spirit has made me feel a sense of urgency and awareness that a spiritual awakening is on the horizon. The current circumstances parallel with the book of Esther. The impactful story initiates an intense time involving people’s places, and things.

Many prophets and prophetesses are keenly aware of the heaviness in the atmosphere during this season. We are on the brink of a significant spiritual event impacting our lives and the world around us.

As years passed, I felt it was too late to make a meaningful impact. I began to think I had missed the opportunity to witness or participate in God’s extraordinary signs, wonders, and miracles.

Amos 3:7 says, “Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.”( KJV)

In the summer of 2012, a lady compelled by God visited the facility where I volunteered. She handed me brochures she had made for us and told me, “Darlene, God chose you for such a time as this. You are here to shine God’s light in the middle of town.” This message moved me deeply.

I want to encourage you not to doubt your purpose at this moment. Remember that your voice is significant because God will give you the words to speak. It’s crucial to pray fervently in the face of the current conflicts and division caused by an invisible enemy, and God requires willing individuals to make a powerful appeal.

Haman’s evil demise is coming to an end. Pray, stand firm, and know that God is in control, bringing peace and trust to your hearts.

Author Darlene J. Conard

The pendulum swung back and forth, creating a gentle sound that echoed through the darkness. A soft, white glow surrounded the blade as it hung mid-air, swaying with an almost hypnotic rhythm. The transition from the pendulum’s gentle swaying to the swift motion of the blade was practically faint yet held an air of threatening anticipation. Only time would reveal the fate that awaited. The glint of the blade’s sharp edge was highlighted by a white outline as it descended, effortlessly slicing through a yoke into pieces. After that, the heavy iron chains beneath it were also cut and reduced to powder, blown away by the wind.

I experienced this powerful vision at precisely 4:13 AM on Tuesday. In silence, I awaited the divine revelation from the Lord. He showed me the story of Esther, where she hosts a banquet for the king and Haman.It’s a curious twist, considering Haman’s status as an enemy to Esther and her people. This was no ordinary banquet; it was held to expose Hammon’s plot to the king.  

^“ I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.”( Romans 7:21 KJV) Paul wrote this because it was his personal experience every time he obeyed the will of the Lord.

Throughout our lives, we endure seasons where God’s presence is intensely felt, guiding and uplifting us. Yet, there are times when His absence feels enigmatic and daunting, prompting us to search for His consoling presence.

After Esther bravely exposes Haman’s treacherous plot to the King, he furiously leaves the room in the palace garden to gather his thoughts. In the King’s absence, Haman, realizing the impending danger to his own life, nervously approached Esther and implored her to intercede on his behalf. But, consumed by anxiety and perhaps emboldened by drink, Haman stumbled and ended up collapsing, intoxicated, onto Esther’s bed. At that moment, the king intervenes and accuses him of assaulting Esther. The gallows he built for Mordecai are used for his execution.

God often uses us to lure and trap our enemies in their schemes. If we continue to do what God tells us to do, Satan’s plans will come to not.

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Author Darlene J. Conard

As I leisurely scrolled through my Instagram feed, I found a post with the thought-provoking text, “The Spirit that raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you. Romans 8:11:” The words resonated with me and prompted me to reflect on their deeper meaning. I looked the scripture up, “But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” (KJV) I recited the Promise so it would sink in. If the Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives in me.

If the power of the Spirit, which resurrected Jesus, is present within us, this same extraordinary power can lift us out of any spiritual dilemma or challenge we encounter. It’s not just any spirit; it’s God’s one and only Spirit. While reading this, I prayed, “God help me realize that You are alive in me. Please help me not to reduce this to my lack of faith or weariness. We are living in a quick-paced world where everything is instantaneously produced. It has spoiled us. God doesn’t work like that. He is precise and masterful. When things are done, they must be done correctly, or it benefits no one. It certainly doesn’t bring Him glory.

This has been weighing heavily on my heart. I’ve been contemplating the profound notion that God is always ready to respond to our prayers if we wholeheartedly open ourselves to His presence. When we actively pray, offer heartfelt praise for His benevolence, and express genuine gratitude for who He is, we create a powerful connection with God, allowing Him to work in our lives in ways that exceed our expectations.

Romans 8:11 inspires a gentle but powerful reminder of the boundless strength within each of us through Jesus.

Author Darlene J. Conard

I sat in front of my computer, taking a moment to process everything. Heavy tears escaped from my closed eyes. “Lord, I’m doing my best—I’m trying.” He began ministering to me. In my spirit, I saw a bridge I once had access to, but a storm dismantled it. Everyone I loved was on the other end, but I couldn’t get to them. He said, “Darlene, bridges can collapse anytime, but a road can be cleared and is solid. This scripture also dropped in my spirit: “And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21 KJV)

One memory that stands out is my sightseeing trip with my friend. As we ventured along our planned route, we unexpectedly encountered a bridge that had been rendered impassable due to the aftermath of a severe storm. Surprised but undiscouraged, we remained determined to reach our desired destination. Thankfully, my friend’s extensive knowledge of the area’s backroads allowed us to navigate an alternative route. Despite the lengthy journey, we found comfort in knowing that the secure path would eventually lead us to our destination.

Imagine yourself on an unfamiliar journey in a vehicle with Jesus holding a map in the passenger seat. You have to rely on Him, knowing He has it all together because He isn’t going to give you the location’s name. He replies, “It will be a much better place, and there is much in store for you.” We must trust Him because we can easily get lost guessing, thinking we know.

We grow weary. I grow tired of myself believing I should have it all together. But the truth is, if we had it all together, we wouldn’t need to rely on God.

God is building roads because roads have lessons that bridges don’t.