Author Darlene J. Conard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Author Darlene J. Conard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEEK GOD, STAY IN PRAYER!

Author Darlene J. Conard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Author Darlene J. Conard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Author Darlene J. Conard

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

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

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

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

The Lord promises to be there when we need Him.

Take a moment to visualize this.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Luke 24:13-34

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

All But One Wall

Author Darlene J. Conard

In remarkable bravery, Rahab sheltered two spies sent by Joshua in Jericho. She concealed them on her roof among flax stalks and fearlessly misled the king’s men, claiming that the spies had already departed the city. Rahab’s bold actions played a crucial role in the mission’s success.

As the Israelites readied themselves for the conquest of Jericho, Rahab, a woman of remarkable courage, boldly professed her faith in the God of Israel. Her plea for mercy, a testament to her unshakable belief in the power of the Israelite God, was a fierce determination to protect her loved ones.

In a compassionate response, the spies agreed to her request and instructed her to hang a scarlet cord from her window as a signal. They also advised her to gather her family inside her house for safety.

The walls eventually collapsed as the Israelites marched around Jericho according to God’s instruction. Rahab’s house, part of the city wall, remained intact. The spies honored their promise, and Rahab and her family were saved.

After the fall of Jericho, Rahab and her family were welcomed into the Israelite community. Her faith and actions, which were later celebrated in the New Testament, hold a significant place in Jesus’s lineage and are commended for her faith in the Book of Hebrews, underscoring their historical importance.

This shows that although some who are not living for God yet fear Him, this is changeable!

The ancient city of Jericho met its dramatic fate when the Israelites, led by Joshua, encircled its formidable walls. For six days, they marched in solemn procession, and on the seventh day, they completed seven rounds, accompanied by the resounding blasts of priests’ horns. As the anticipation reached its peak, the people raised their voices in a triumphant shout, and the walls of Jericho, in a miraculous display of God’s power, came tumbling down.

Modern archaeological sites at Tell es-Sultan, believed to be the site of biblical Jericho, have not yielded evidence of a city from the related period, casting a captivating veil of mystery over this legendary account. Some scholars suggest that the story may have originated as a means of declaratory regional claims by later rulers of Judah, adding an intriguing layer of historical interpretation to this timeless account.[1]

Remarkably, all the walls fell except Rahab’s. You see —when she let down the scarlet cord, it had the same symbolism as the lamb’s blood applied by the children of Israel. Her wall became a safeguard.

Archaeologists have not found remains of the walls of Jericho, but Rahab’s wall shall stand in defense against the enemy.

In times of need, it’s essential to remember to apply the redeeming power of Jesus’s blood to every aspect of your life. Just like the life-giving umbilical cord, the scarlet cord symbolizes the continuous flow of life from Jesus to you, beloved child of God.

Rahab hides the spies: Joshua 2 KJV – And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of – Bible Gateway.

The falling of the Jericho Walls: Joshua 6 KJV – Now Jericho was straitly shut up – Bible Gateway

Refernce 1.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Jericho

Author Darlene J. Conard

As I observed, the workers carefully removed the apple tree’s branches. I couldn’t understand why they were dismantling something so beautiful. The tree’s delicate white and pink blossoms had always brought joy to the picnic area, filling the air with a gentle, calming fragrance in the spring. Now, their absence left me feeling disappointed and disheartened. I realized that my negative reaction was due to my lack of understanding. It wasn’t until later that I discovered the purpose behind this process — pruning. The men were only doing this to ensure the tree’s future growth and survival. I would have to wait until next year to witness their beauty again. This year simply wasn’t their time.

In a spiritual sense, I felt a deeper connection with the idea that if those trees could scream out in pain, asking, “Why have you cut my branches?”  I could relate. Just as the men knew exactly how and where to cut, God knows exactly when and where to remove things from our lives. He has to. Pruning is an indication of fruitfulness. For the trees to bear fruit again, they would have to be pruned.

Mark 2:22 says, “No man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles.” “It can’t be done. Human nature kicks in to do things our way prematurely. We step in with our thoughts and ideas. God requires us to walk in spirit and truth.

God deals with people, but it takes time.

Saul, surnamed Paul, encountered the two-edged sword on his way to Damascus. Deep within, he honestly thought he was doing God’s service. Jesus’ appearance blinded him. (Acts 9:1-9) We go through pruning not because something is wrong with us but because we want to know what is right. God knows much more about lay dormant than we are aware of.

Through trials, I have gained more than I lost, which initially didn’t make sense to me. We will receive an honorary position. The Almighty Creator Himself puts us before the small and great, saying, “They have glorified Me well.”

God permitted Satan, knowing that Job was fruitful and would not lose his luster or faith in Him.

Jesus stood silent before Pilate as he searched deep within himself for the right questions. How would he unlock Jesus’ silence? He was wise. His refusal permeated truth into Pilates’s physical authority. “Don’t you know I have the power to crucify You?” In response, Jesus answered,” You could have no power at all except it be given from above.” John 19:9-11

Satan only has the authority that’s given from above to test us.

Be encouraged knowing that God is in control of our lives if we allow Him to be.

 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 KJV

Written by Darlene J. Conard

The mustard seed is tiny yet mighty, measuring 1 to 2 millimeters (0.039 to 0.079 inches) in diameter. In Luke 17:5 to 6, Jesus uses the mustard seed to show that even the smallest amount of faith can accomplish great things, like moving mountains and uprooting trees. Some people may be skeptical, saying, “I don’t believe those things are movable.

In 2 Kings, Elijah’s followers sought a more prominent dwelling place. While cutting trees for beams, one of the men’s axe heads flew off its handle into the water. The servant pointed to its location. Elijah then cut off a stick and threw it toward the axe head beneath the water. To their amazement, the axe head floated to the top and became attached to the stick.

We serve the same unchanging God. It’s not that God has changed; it’s our faith that has wavered. I have an unwavering belief that God will restore and strengthen our faith.

It may not look, feel, or sound like we are living in one of the greatest times, but just hold tight—God is preparing to leave us speechless! Let’s not overlook the miracles that surround us daily.

“For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.”   1 Thessalonians 2:13 KJV

“Faith sees the invisible, believes the unbelievable, and receives the impossible.” -Corrie Ten Boom-

References Google search

Author Darlene J. Conard

After several days of battling a stomach virus and sinus infection, receiving the devastating news of a close family member, coping with the unexpected death of my cousin and my mom’s heart palpitating, and facing various spiritual challenges, I felt utterly overwhelmed. It seemed like one thing after another, and I was struggling to cope with the emotional and physical toll it was taking on me.

This morning, I heard this song in my spirit: “Satan, your kingdom is coming down, Lord, we declare Your glory, and we declare Your victory in this place!”

“God, You’re up to something — aren’t You?”  During that time, He directed me to the stories in His Word, where it seemed like His people were defeated, but God was setting a trap to ensnare the enemy.

We must remember that when we seek Him wholeheartedly, He won’t ignore us!

God’s reminder echoes through history: many battles have been won by just a few or even a lone warrior.

The intricacy of God’s divine plans often astounds humanity. He selects the most unlikely individuals and empowers them for His holy purpose. When God starts removing specific individuals from your life, it’s a sign that He is preparing you for something significant. Some are only absent for a season.

The blacksmith expertly manipulates the sword in the intense heat of the flames, carefully calculating the precise number of hammer blows required to craft it into the perfect shape for the severities of war. The process of tempering a sword involves exposing it to heat for a specific duration. If the sword is heated for too long, it will result in excessive hardening, making it brittle and prone to shattering. On the other hand, if it is not heated for a sufficient amount of time, the sword will be too soft and lack the necessary strength for effective use in combat. Therefore, achieving the optimal balance in the tempering process is crucial to ensure that the sword possesses the ideal combination of hardness and flexibility.

God confronted Satan concerning Joshua, asking, “Is this not a brand plucked from the fire?” God affirmed Joshua as a brand used to stir and smolder fire, passing through the flames unscathed. Satan sought to belittle Joshua’s significance in light of his destined future. In response, God ordered the removal of Joshua’s filthy garments. (Zechariah 3:1-5)

Keep in mind that God possesses the ability to transform both us and our circumstances. He is shaping us for the upcoming intense struggles that will ultimately bring glory to Him and deepen our connection with Him.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jeremiah 29:11 KJV

Author Darlene J. Conard

Nehemiah had a clear vision to restore the walls of Jerusalem. He knew that the walls were vital for keeping the Jewish people safe and protecting their identity. Nehemiah was good at explaining his vision to others, inspiring them to support his plan.

He was a particular strategic planner and took great care in thoroughly evaluating the condition of the walls before embarking on the reconstruction project. Under the cover of night, he led detailed inspections to accurately measure the damage’s extent. Afterward, he meticulously devised a complete plan, strategically assigning specific wall sections to different groups to ensure the ideal operation of resources and manpower.

His leadership was tested by daunting opposition from adversaries such as Sanballat and Tobiah. Despite the daunting challenges, he demonstrated extraordinary skill in inspiring individuals to work together while defending themselves, making steady progress, and ensuring their safety. His resilience and unwavering determination are effective examples, urging us to persist in adversity.

Nehemiah’s empathy towards his people was not just a sentiment but a passion for change. He addressed complaints, restructured to ease burdens, and fostered unity and trust among the public, making them feel understood, cared for, and secure.

His decision not to abuse his position for personal gain was not only a choice but also a display of his unwavering dedication. His integrity-based actions and decisions earned him widespread respect and loyalty, making his followers feel valued and respected.

Nehemiah’s leadership involved both everyday strategies and deep faith. He frequently sought guidance and strength through prayer, importance, and reliance on God. His strong spiritual guidance was key in reigniting the people’s trust and commitment to their religious practices, inspiring them with his unwavering belief. Nehemiah’s story is gripping evidence of the power of visionary, strategic, and compassionate leadership in conquering challenging obstacles and attaining unexpected accomplishments.

As I reflect on these words, I come to understand that the journey of a visionary and a leader is laden with challenges. Each day, God guides us through His teachings, showing us how to emerge His Word into our daily lives while navigating the pressures we face. It is through this process that He molds and shapes us into capable leaders. Proverbs 29:18, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.”

“Be encouraged and do not lose your vision. Stand firm in God’s word!”