Category: BLOG

From Destitution to Hallowed

Author J. Conard

As I sat in front of my computer, the stark blankness of the document loomed before me, a silent challenge demanding to be filled. Thoughts swirled chaotically in my mind—whispers of ideas, emotions, and inspirations waiting to break free. I found myself pondering where to locate that elusive turn-on valve, the one that would release the torrent of creativity within and allow it to transform into a coherent message. For a moment, I let my gaze drift to my calico cat, perched elegantly nearby. Her fierce, warrior-like demeanor captivated me, providing an unexpected source of motivation and strength as I wrestled with the void on the screen before me.

So, it began. The blanket document became clothed with a message of hope. My cat revealed her territorial instinct when something unwanted became too close to our domain. God is very protective of His children.

Trials, temptations, and closed doors aren’t abandonment. Trials become a soldering tool that seems valuable to the kingdom warriors. Temptation escalates a resilience in us we’ve never encountered. A friend and I discussed drawing closer to God and regaining ground. Desolate places become sacred ground, holy ground. Now, I understand more than ever how important our spiritual deserts and valleys are. Ruble, deadness, and absence are swallowed up when we invite Jesus on the journey. Stagnation flees when we speak, “God, I’m weak, but You are strong in me.” The overpowering stench from the drought will fade upon the arrival of The Lily of the Valleys.”

My dear friend, there may be moments when it feels as though no light can break through the darkness. I speak from the depths of my own experience when I say that overwhelming circumstances can drown even the most resilient spirit. The weight of despair seems to press down on you, draining every last drop of hope. Your eyes may swell with tears, betraying a heart that feels shattered, while a numbness begins to creep in, dulling your senses and leaving you in a fog. In those desolate moments, the relentless voice of loneliness may echo in your mind, insisting that you are utterly alone and that no one truly cares about your pain. But I urge you, do not give in to that voice; resist entertaining those thoughts, not even for a fleeting moment!

Jesus says, “I am the rose of Sharon and the lily of the valleys. As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters. As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons.”

We must declare, “I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste. He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me.” Song of Solomon 2: 1-6 KJV Make these places Holy Ground; it’s your domain. One day, you’ll be able to see evidence of God’s power when you didn’t! No Nonsense!

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.

Behind Every Giant is a Lesson

Author Darlene J. Conard

I was in an astonishingly vivid dream, like living in an alternate reality. Every detail was crystal clear, from the vibrant colors around me to the sounds that seemed to echo right in my ears. The sensations were profoundly immersive, making it hard to believe I wasn’t awake.

This is my dream: David’s slingshot sliced through the crisp air, its distinctive whirring sound echoing in the quietness of the army’s anticipation. He deftly twirled the stone within the leather pouch with deliberate precision, feeling its smooth weight in his hand. Each motion was calculated as he prepared to aim at his target with unwavering focus and determination. He ignored the taunts and mockery coming from the enemy’s mouth. At the right time, he put his aim in motion. The stone penetrated through the giant’s skull; then, David used Goliath’s sword to cut his head off. It came after a series of tough days, during which I faced various challenges. In this dream, I was in a serene setting, surrounded by a great light. Suddenly, I heard a comforting voice that resonated deep: “I am mighty in you.” This message echoed through my thoughts, filling me with a sense of strength and reassurance that I desperately needed. God reminded me He is the power within me to overcome adversity. The dream left me with a renewed sense of hope and a clearer perspective on my struggles.

Zechariah 4:6 says, … “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 4:6 KJV

Countless moments in our lives, we find ourselves letting external circumstances dictate our emotions and actions, losing sight of the profound truth that our God is a mighty force, capable of overcoming any challenge. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and forget the strength and power that lies in faith and the power that lies within us as believers.

Deborah’s Strategy

Author Darlene J. Conard

I sat silently in my office chair. The Lord’s words were clear to me. “Deborah judged a matter and won. She had a strategy.” Deborah understood whom to select for battle, as well as when and how to eliminate the enemy effectively. She carefully considered every detail, weighing each element in the balance to guarantee that everything harmonized seamlessly and operated within the scheduled timeframe. Each aspect was inspected as she strived for perfect alignment and a smooth flow of tasks, ensuring no part overshadowed another in the intricate composition of her plans. You see, Deborah was not just going to war physically. This fight was about getting Israel aligned with heaven.

Over the past five years, my journey has been shaped profoundly by lessons on strategy that I’ve received from God. One evening, I found myself in a quiet, reflective moment when a vivid vision appeared before me: a clock hanging on the wall, its hands moving with measured precision as it steadily ticked away the seconds. The relentless passage of time filled me with a sense of urgency and anxiety, and I couldn’t help but voice my fear, “It’s going to be too late for me.” In that moment, a calm, reassuring presence washed over me, and I heard the Lord’s voice respond gently yet firmly, “I’m never late; my timing is perfect.”

The ambush on the enemy’s camp must be executed with precision, following the specific guidance provided by the Lord. Every step of the plan requires careful attention to detail, and we must adhere to His instructions to ensure a successful outcome. Timing, positioning, and strategy are all paramount, and we must remain vigilant in our preparations, trusting in the wisdom bestowed upon us.

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Psalm 32:8 KJV

Please feel free to share this with anyone you like. My mission is to encourage everyone to wholeheartedly follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. © Darlene J. Conard, Vision Ministries 2024. This text 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.

Answering the Call

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 chirping 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 felt God’s presence especially strongly. 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.

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

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

Shake it Off

Author Darlene J. Conard

As I settled into the stillness of my desk, the world outside faded away, allowing me to tune in more intently to the whispered messages from God. In that moment of reflection, I recalled the harrowing tale of the Apostle Paul. A violent storm had erupted without warning, casting their vessel violently upon the tumultuous waves. The boat was at the mercy of the relentless sea, its crew gripped by fear and uncertainty as they were ultimately hurled into the chaos of a shipwreck. They found themselves washed ashore on the rugged landscape of Malta, their journey altered by the tempest that had engulfed them.

Their journey was disrupted, the planned course overwhelmed by a storm beyond their control. But divine disruption never lacks purpose. God, the master mapmaker, traced a different line—one invisible to human eyes but pulsing with eternal precision.

They arrived not by intention, but by intervention. Malta, unassuming and unsought, rose from the horizon like a whisper in the will of God. Its shores bore no welcome banners, only native eyes—watchful, wondering, open. The island had not sent for them, yet it had been prepared. And the hearts that awaited were not hardened by skepticism, but softened by something sacred—ready soil for the seeds of glory.

As Paul set about gathering dry twigs and sturdy logs for the fire, an unsettling encounter unfolded—one that would send shivers down anyone’s spine. From the tangled underbrush, a glistening serpent emerged with an air of menace, its scales shimmering in the fading light. In a swift and startling moment, it struck, fastening its fangs onto Paul’s arm with a sharp bite. Yet, rather than succumbing to panic, Paul remained remarkably composed. With a determined flick of his wrist, he dislodged the snake and cast it into the crackling flames, watching as the serpent was swallowed by the fire’s fierce hunger. (Acts 25)

Satan will employ every tactic at his disposal to ensnare us in feelings of discouragement, depression, and confusion. He aims to weaken our spirits and bring us to a state of vulnerability, stripping away the strength and authority that God has bestowed upon us through Christ. With each whispered doubt and each wave of uncertainty, he seeks to diminish our resolve and distract us from the divine purpose and power that is rightfully ours.

We have power in Christ to trample depression, anxiety, and hopelessness; let the fire of the Holy Ghost consume it on the altar.

^“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Luke 10:19 KJV

Tough Enough to Handle It

Author Darlene J. Conard

“God is going to make you tough-skinned.” This morning, I woke up with the echoing tone of my friend Dallie’s profound and fervent prayer lingering in my spirit. The intercession group’s powerful declaration over me set in motion immediate and tangible changes, serving as a touching demonstration of the incredible influence that our words possess. I have felt this way for months since then.

Jesus prepared His disciples, saying, “^Behold, I send you forth as sheep amid wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16 KJV)

Sheep possess a remarkable trait – they have an impressive 300-degree field of vision. This means they can see what is behind them without having to turn their heads. This wide visual range helps them remain alert and aware of their surroundings, making it easier to detect potential predators or other threats.

These gentle creatures pose no threat. They are receptive, very accepting of instruction, and submissive. Wolves prey on sheep; that’s why Jesus said to be wise as serpents yet harmless as doves.

When we are at our lowest, it’s easy to feel hopeless and lost. Yet, through divine intervention, God has a remarkable way of shifting our viewpoint, filling us with hope, and sparking inspiration within our hearts. His intervention is like a beacon of light in the darkest times, guiding us towards a brighter, more hopeful future.

God is calling us into deeper waters. Psalm 42:7 says, “Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me.”

“Did you know you can experience such a deep connection with God that you become resistant to the chaos around you? When God promises that no weapon formed against us shall prosper, no rumor, curse, sickness, bad news, or negative opinion can have power over you. It’s an incredible state to be in! It doesn’t matter who said what or whether they believe it because God’s protection surpasses all, providing a profound sense of security and protection.

I hold what a friend of mine said to me deep within my heart: “Darlene, God chose you to be on the front line of the battle because He knew you could handle it.” Being tough doesn’t mean having a macho attitude. It means standing firm in faith, believing God for what He said He would; it means being full of the joy of the Holy Spirit!

Take this message to heart: God will make you tough enough to withstand anything that comes your way!

Trust Him to do what He said He would do! He’s so faithful!

In God’s perfect Time

Author Darlene J Conard

The silence that hangs in the air can be an agonizing weight on your soul. It’s as if the world has gone quiet and you’re left alone with your thoughts and questions. You feel like nobody can relate to the wrestling match going on inside your head, as questions float above hope, and the unknown factor of “what’s next” constantly sounds an alarm. The darkness that lingers seems to mock you, reminding you of your struggle and making you wonder if you’ll ever find a way out.

Job knew this kind of darkness all too well. He was a man who had everything he could want – a comfortable life, a loving family, and loyal friends. But when Satan challenged him, God allowed Job’s life to be stripped away, leaving him with nothing but his thoughts and questions. Even his friends turned against him, pointing to his afflictions as evidence of his fate. But through it all, God remained with Job, a constant presence amid his struggle. Though everything Job knew was gone, he never lost his faith in God.

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

We must always stand firm on God’s promises and not rely on our feelings, what we see, and hear.

… “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

When the winds howl and our hearts tremble, we remember: our faith is not anchored in what our eyes behold or our ears absorb, nor in the fleeting shadows of emotion. We are rooted in something deeper—the unchanging promises of God.

Though storms may rise and doubts may whisper, His Word speaks louder still: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away.” — Matthew 24:35

Let us walk by faith, not by sight. Let us listen for the still, small voice, not the clamor of the crowd. Let us rest—not in how we feel—but in who He is.

So today, declare it boldly: “I am not moved by circumstance. I am led by truth. I stand, fearless and firm, on the promises of my God.”

All-Powerful God

Author Darlene J. Conard

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

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

Omnipotence -All Powerful

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

Omniscient- All-Knowing

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

Omnipresent- Ever Present

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

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

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

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

About the Father’s Business

Author Darlene J. Conard

My grandmother frequently shared her wisdom with me, saying, “If you’re searching for trouble, you’re bound to stumble upon it.” She would often elaborate, “Just like if you go in search of the devil, you’re sure to encounter him.” Her words carried a weight of experience, emphasizing the importance of being mindful of where we direct our focus and energy. “Yes, God wants us to be aware that evil exists and that demonic powers are working; however, we are not to concentrate on it.

We possess an incredible ability to transform our environment through our words, shifting the atmosphere from one of negativity to one of positivity. Jesus proclaimed, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth,” conveying the immense authority He holds. With this profound statement, He also assured us that we, too, are endowed with the same power when we invoke His name. This divine empowerment allows us to influence our surroundings and uplift those around us.

I firmly believe that our focus should be on pursuing the divine and engaging wholeheartedly in the work that our Heavenly Father has set before us. When the enemy attempts to disrupt our mission or intrude upon our path, we must address those challenges as they arise, remaining vigilant and steadfast in our purpose.

“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2 KJV

It is essential for us to remain watchful and attuned to our spiritual insights, yet we must also strive to maintain a sense of balance in our lives.

Sent into the Darkness

Author Darlene J. Conard

You may feel as though you are crossing through an immense and oppressive darkness, consumed by your struggles and uncertainties. What you may not know is that, amid your valley, you are a beacon of hope for someone else who is trapped in an even deeper shadow, searching desperately for a glimmer of light to guide their way.

Yesterday evening, I had a powerful revelation. I truly detest those moments of trial, especially when I must constantly struggle to keep my mindset on heavenly matters. Joseph, Paul, Silas, and Jeremiah—each of them descended into darkness not to have their light snuffed out, but to become a beacon of hope. In the shadows, people sat in silence, unaware of who Jesus was.

They lingered in the darkness, both physically and spiritually, until the moment arrived when God illuminated His light through His messengers, guiding them through the obscurity in which they had been lost.

Their journeys remind us that within our deepest struggles lies the potential to rise and shine even brighter. It’s like entering a deep, dark cave to rescue someone lost without a light.

“Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:1-6 KJV