Author Darlene J. Conard

Life has an uncanny way of bringing forth waves of disappointment that crash relentlessly against our hope. These moments can feel overwhelming, as if we are struggling to keep our heads above water amidst a turbulent sea. In times like these, we often find consolation in Scripture, reminding ourselves of the promises that anchor our faith. One such verse resonates deeply: “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift a standard against him.” (Isaiah 59:19-20)This robust assurance is a beacon of hope, encouraging us to stand firm and trust that God will intervene when challenges overwhelm us.

The Holy Ghost dropped something in my spirit as I sat staring at the floor on the edge of my bed. “Remember Naomi’s response when the citizens of Bethlehem asked, “Is this not Naomi?” She responded, “Don’t call me Naomi, but Mara.”

Naomi continued to express her feelings, her voice filled with sorrow. “Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara. I departed from here with a heart full of hope and joy, but the LORD has returned me home with nothing but emptiness. Why do you still call me Naomi, which means ‘pleasant,’ when the LORD has demonstrated His disfavor toward me, and the Almighty has allowed me to endure this deep suffering?” In her time of grief, she affirmed herself as being bitter and empty. She chose a name that reflected her situation and challenges, yet the divine had a greater purpose for her within life’s grand design.

“Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;” Deuteronomy 7:9 KJV

Naomi pressed on through the deep, unrelenting pain she experienced in her struggle of faith, each moment weighing heavily on her spirit. Yet, despite the turmoil, she emerged with a profound and transformative blessing that surpassed her comprehension, illuminating her life in ways she had never imagined.

We must understand that our circumstances, no matter how challenging or favorable they may seem, do not ultimately define our identities or worth. Instead, it is our character, our choices, and our actions that shape who we are. Furthermore, we can find comfort and hope in the knowledge that God is a covenant-keeping God, faithful to His promises and committed to guiding us through every aspect of our lives. His unwavering presence assures us that we are more than the situations we face, reminding us of our inherent value and potential as we navigate our journeys.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

Author Darlene J. Conard

Have you ever taken a moment to closely observe products that contain oil? If you let these products sit undisturbed for a period, you might notice an intriguing phenomenon. Over time, the oil slowly rises to the surface, creating a striking, glossy layer above the other ingredients. Meanwhile, the denser components gradually settle at the bottom of the container, resulting in a distinct separation that emphasizes that oil and other ingredients do not mix flawlessly. This means the product must be shaken well to mix the ingredients.

Serving God is a pursuit that demands intentionality and dedication. It’s not enough to go through the motions; we must actively engage our hearts and minds in this sacred journey. If we allow ourselves to become comfortable and stagnant in our spiritual lives, we risk losing the vibrancy that comes from a deep and living faith.

Consider how a still pond can quickly become murky and lifeless without the movement of wind or the ripple of a stone thrown into its waters. Similarly, our connection with God can start to fade if we don’t consistently nurture it. Without regular prayer, reflection, and acts of service, our spiritual lives may become dull and unfulfilling, lacking the excitement and purpose of an active relationship with God.

We must discover fresh ways to connect with God to avoid becoming stagnant. This may involve trying out various forms of worship, diving deep into scripture, and being a part of believers who encourage and uplift us. By refreshing our spiritual practices and remaining open to growth, we can ensure that our faith remains vibrant and deeply rooted in purpose.

^“ I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”  1 Timothy 1:3-7)

We must stir ourselves and stay on fire for God.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

Author Darlene J Conard

As I readied to defrost my refrigerator, I cautiously pulled the appliance away from the wall. I looked down, and the faint scent of stale air mixed with a musty odor fanned up from the neglected floor beneath it, revealing a disheartening landscape of dust bunnies and long-forgotten crumbs that had collected in the shadows. I glanced down, momentarily entranced by the unkempt patches hidden from sight for far too long, before quickly averting my gaze to the side of the fridge’s once-gleaming exterior, now marred with smudges and fingerprints. Do I want to tackle that mess right now? I pondered, feeling a familiar wave of reluctance wash over me. Not at this moment, I decided with a mental shrug. I then slid the bulky appliance back into position, almost as if to erase the evidence of neglect. Nothing to see here! Then, the Lord spoke to me, saying, “That’s the way it is, when I reveal the truth, and no one wants to see it, so they ignore it.”

“Ouch, I thought, a sharp pang of discomfort coursing through me as the realization struck. In that moment, I knew, with a deep-seated conviction, that the Lord is always right. Yet, wrestling with this truth felt like climbing a steep, rocky incline—difficult and painful, especially when we have spent years entwined in the comforting illusion of a lie, convincing ourselves it was the foundation of our beliefs. It was disorienting to confront the discord between what I had accepted as reality and the stark clarity of truth now unraveling before me.

The term “revelation” encompasses the idea that elements or truths previously concealed or beyond our perception are made manifest and become apparent. It signifies a transformative moment in which secrets, hidden knowledge, or more profound insights are unveiled, allowing individuals to gain clarity and understanding. This process often involves a dramatic shift in perspective, where the awakening to these revelations can lead to profound personal insights, changes in beliefs, or even spiritual enlightenment. A revelation catalyzes deeper comprehension, illuminating pathways once shrouded in mystery or obscurity.

People are hesitant to challenge the status quo in the current era. A pervasive desire to maintain agreement leads many to accept a particular perspective and suppress the truth. This unspoken agreement raises a comfortable atmosphere but ultimately sidelines the more profound truths that might provoke discomfort or disagreement.

Understanding the truth requires honesty. I realize that accepting the truth can be difficult. John of Patmos said, “I went to the angel and asked him, ‘Give me the little book.’ He replied, ‘Take it and eat it. It will make your stomach bitter, but it will be as sweet as honey in your mouth.” (Revelation 10:9)

The truth will cause discomfort to anyone in their flesh, but it’s the truth that will make us free.

… “ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

Author Darlene J. Conard

At one point, I found myself caught in a relentless cycle of self-reflection, constantly questioning my identity to the point of confusion. It felt like I was trapped in a loop, with memories from the past persisting around me. I kept reliving the same circumstances in my mind, feeling the familiar weight of emotions wash over me, and hearing the same voices whisper reminders of what I once was. Each iteration brought no new insights, only a haunting sense of déjà vu that made breaking free from this mental spiral difficult.

I recall the heartfelt moments I shared with the children I worked with. Their voices filled with longing as they asked, “I miss the other, Darlene. Why are you trying to change?” Their innocent curiosity struck a chord in me, making me reflect on the essence of who I am and the truth behind wanting to change.

Throughout my life, I’ve often engaged in a relentless cycle of comparison, constantly measuring my abilities against those of others. This preoccupation with how I stack up against my peers consumed me, overshadowing the unique gifts that I have been blessed with. In my relentless pursuit to fit into molds crafted by societal expectations and the opinions of others, I lost sight of the beauty inherent in my talents. It became clear that I was neglecting the vibrant aspects of myself, waiting patiently to be recognized and embraced. As I began reflecting on this, I realized that the journey to self-acceptance is not about imitation but celebrating the distinctive qualities that make me who I am.

The story of the magic mirror has always captivated me. I would often find myself asking it questions that echoed deep insecurities: “Tell me how I truly appear? Am I as wonderful as so-and-so? Who do I see in the reflection, magic mirror? What flaws do I possess?”

As I ponder these inquiries, I realize that we are surrounded by our image-reflectors, constantly sending back the opinions and perceptions of others. I’ve understood that these reflections can be uplifting and disheartening. In my life, the reassuring voices of my aunt and friends have become a balm for my spirit, reminding me, “It’s perfectly okay to embrace who you are.”

I am grateful that God desires us to be our authentic selves. It’s liberating to acknowledge that we are not obligated to absorb the negative judgments of others, for they do not hold the authority of the Creator. We are unique, deserving of acceptance and love just as we are.

There is no enchanted mirror that reflects my true self; instead, I seek to understand who I am by gazing upon my existence through the compassionate eyes of God.

 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

Author Darlene Conard

The expression “keeping me on my toes” is a lively metaphor that paints a detailed picture of an individual immersed in a whirlwind of activity and continuous observance. It raises the image of someone who must maintain a critical awareness, poised to react swiftly to various tasks and challenges that life throws their way. Much like a skilled dancer gracefully maneuvering across a stage, ever mindful of balance and rhythm, this phrase captures the essence of managing numerous responsibilities. It reflects the necessity of remaining engaged and alert in an active environment, where focus and flexibility dominate.

The Bible is filled with compelling chronicles of individuals who demonstrated the necessity of staying vigilant and responsive in their spiritual journeys. From David’s courageous faith as he faced Goliath, readying himself for battle, to Esther’s relentless determination to risk her life to save her people, these figures had to remain alert to the challenges surrounding them. Their stories highlight the importance of being prepared to act decisively when faced with adversity, demonstrating how their faith and quick thinking guided them through times of uncertainty and danger. Each example is a powerful reminder of the strength found in vigilance and the readiness to confront life’s trials head-on.

God doesn’t always elevate trials straight away. He permits things to keep us on our toes, teaching us to be instant in and out of season. (2 Timothy 4:2)

God allows challenges to help us grow. They push us out of our comfort zones and force us to face our limits. By overcoming these obstacles, we learn more about ourselves, change our approaches, and find strengths we didn’t know we had. On the other hand, avoiding difficulties can lead to stagnation, keeping us from reaching our full potential. Embracing challenges is essential for unlocking our capabilities and supporting our spiritual growth. These experiences keep us engaged on our spiritual path.

“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.”  Philippians 3:14-16 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

Author Darlene J. Conard

“Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 18:18 KJV

Countless times, I’ve kneeled in prayer, my heart heavy with hopes and desires. Yet, instead of the divine breakthrough I longed for, my words felt like they were met with an impenetrable wall, echoing back into the silence, leaving me with a profound sense of isolation and unanswered yearning.

I needed a momentary escape on Monday evening, so I settled down for a nap, eager to recharge my spirit. As the soft lull of sleep enveloped me, I was gently roused from my slumber at 6:09 pm. In that quiet moment, I distinctly heard the Lord speaking —deep and resonant—calling to me, revealing to me, “You are praying earthbound prayers.” The words hung in the air, a compelling reminder that prompted me to reflect on the nature of my prayers. It made sense, I wasn’t pressing with all my heart, mind, and soul.

As a mother approaches childbirth, she experiences a complex and intense process. When the time comes, she engages in the act of pushing, using her strength and determination to help the baby navigate through the birth canal and into the world. This moment is accompanied by powerful contractions of the womb, which work in tandem with the mother’s efforts to aid in the delivery. Physical effort is what will bring that child into the world.

Intercessory prayer is not casual or straightforward; it requires deep commitment and earnestness. To truly reach the heavens and effect meaningful change in impossible circumstances, we must engage with a heartfelt intensity, pushing past our comfort zones and pressing into the process with determination and focus. Heaven will move when we get into a kingdom mindset.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

Author Darlene J. Conard

The impact of our words is immense; they hold the remarkable capacity to dismantle entire kingdoms or to elevate them to new heights of greatness. This profound truth is exemplified in the historical encounter when Paul, a fervent apostle, stood before King Agrippa, a ruler of significant authority. With passion and conviction, Paul articulated the message of Christ, sharing his experiences and the transformative power of faith.

As Paul spoke, the air was charged with tension and possibility. After absorbing the weight of Paul’s words, King Agrippa, clearly moved yet conflicted, replied with his famous statement, “You almost persuade me to be a Christian. (Acts 26:1-29) This moment summarizes the essence of persuasion—a subtle yet profound influence that can sway hearts and minds, prompting individuals to reconsider their beliefs and convictions.

So, what exactly is persuasion? It is the art and skill of directing thoughts, actions, and emotions through language, enabling individuals to see the world differently. At its core, persuasion is about connection and understanding, fostering dialogue that can lead to meaningful change.

I completed a course in Advertising Arts, where we explored the intricacies of persuading consumers to choose a company’s product over others. The course’s primary objective was to understand the psychology behind consumer behavior and develop compelling narratives highlighting the unique benefits and value of products. We delved into various advertising techniques, from creative storytelling to visual design, to communicate why potential customers should be drawn to a brand’s offerings.

Persuasion is a powerful force that can significantly influence people’s decisions and actions. It is the process by which one person or entity attempts to convince another person or group to change their beliefs or behaviors. Unlike coercion, persuasion allows the individuals receiving the message to choose whether or not to act on it.

To truly embrace Jesus’ teachings, we need to be fully convinced in our hearts and minds. This journey requires us to actively let go of our worldly desires and the distractions of life that pull us away from a spiritual path. It’s a commitment to prioritize faith over fleeting pleasures, allowing ourselves to be transformed by His message and example.

Our mission is to inspire those who feel lost to transform their lives through the teachings and love of Jesus Christ. We are dedicated to living as a shining example for other Christians, demonstrating the profound impact of faith and compassion. Through our actions and words, we strive to lead others on a path of spiritual awakening and personal renewal.

“Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.”  Matthew 5:13-16 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

Author Darlene J.  Conard

“What now? What do we do? There’s no way out! Why did God lead us to dwell in this destitution?”  Fear stole their hope, strangling the fire that God’s wonders brought. We’ve all been in the children of Israel’s state of mind. “No way out of this situation. I don’t see it.” Well, my friend, our perspective is off.

Deep in thought, I’ve often imagined God yawning after the flick of His finger. Nothing challenges Him! “Give me another prayer.” He’s God all by Himself.  God promised Abraham he would father many nations. He swore by Himself, why? No one exceeded His greatness. No one or thing ever will.  Hebrews 6:13

Isaiah 45:11, one of my many favorite passages, says, … “Ask me of things to come concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands command ye me.” Wow! Amazing! Commanding in this verse is not to approach Him disrespectfully. God is inviting us to declare what He has already promised. “God, manifest Your power in this situation. Reveal Your unattainable power in the courtroom. Jesus, reveal Your redeeming power in the life of my loved ones. I declare it done!

“Behold, I have received commandment to bless: and he hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it.” (Numbers 23:20). God said in this passage He received commandment to bless: He has blessed, sealed and delivered! I love this! (Paraphrasing) “Ask Me about the blessing reserved for your sons and daughters. Anything concerning them, let Me reveal it to you.” I love God’s invitations to come boldly before the throne of grace Paul wrote about in Hebrews 4:16. Seek His face, not His hand. He loves our adoration towards Him.

“Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it?” (Isaiah 43:13 KJV) Not one of them can do what only God can do. Maybe you have situations at work, in a friendship or healing in your marriage, or bad relationships from the past. He’ll do it His way. He knows how to orchestrate people, places, and things. God sees the intent of hearts, the condition of the mind, and the state of our being. We truly believe we know ourselves until He unveils strengths and weaknesses.

“The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.” (Proverbs 20:27 KJV)  

“But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:10 KJV

Hebrews 4:12 says, He’s the discerner of our thoughts and intents of the heart. Don’t underestimate your earnest prayers. Fervently

God spoke to Noah in a cramped-up situation He created—animals of every kind, family, and perhaps other necessities. God makes us uncomfortable on purpose to motivate us out of comfort. (Genesis 8:1-8) The unseen cocoon we are experiencing is a time of growth. Use it, ask Him to show His glory as Moses did in Exodus 33:18.

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

Author Darlene J. Conard

“Do not run from the fire; instead, rise up and intercede from the heights.” This statement resonated deeply with me. It underscores a crucial truth: frequently, we overlook that our struggles are not merely physical challenges but a spiritual battle that requires more than earthly strength.

The term “interceding” conveys the idea of actively stepping in to pause or disrupt the influences of darkness and negativity. It implies a commitment to preventing the spread of harm or evil by intervening on behalf of those vulnerable or affected, striving to restore light and positivity in challenging situations. Intercessory prayer demands immense strength and commitment; it goes far beyond simple, casual prayer. It requires deep emotional investment, perseverance, and a steadfast spirit as one advocates for others, seeking divine intervention.

Moses played a pivotal role as an intercessor for the people of Israel, fervently pleading with God to show them mercy during times of rebellion and sin. His heartfelt prayers sought to prevent divine wrath and to remind God of the promises made to their ancestors.

Similarly, Esther, demonstrating immense courage and devotion, undertook a period of fasting and prayer to intercede on behalf of her people. In the face of Haman’s wicked conspiracy to annihilate the Jews, she risked her own life by approaching King Xerxes, determined to reveal her identity and plead for the safety of her nation.

Abraham also took on the mantle of intercession when he implored God on behalf of his nephew Lot, who resided in the morally compromised city of Sodom. Abraham negotiated with God with great compassion, asking Him to spare the city if a certain number of righteous individuals could be found within it. This showcased his deep concern for Lot’s welfare and the desire to see justice tempered with mercy.

We must persist in our prayers and seek refuge in the overwhelming presence of the Almighty God, finding solace and strength in His wonderful embrace.

Then said he unto me, “Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia. Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.” And when he had spoken such words unto me, I set my face toward the ground, and I became dumb. And, behold, one like the similitude of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before me, “ O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength. For how can the servant of this my lord talk with this my lord? for as for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there breath left in me.” Then there came again and touched me one like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me,  And said, “O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong.” And when he had spoken unto me, “I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me.” Then said he, “Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the prince of Grecia shall come. But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.” Daniel 10:12-21 KJV