Author Darlene J. Conard

As I lay in bed, feeling utterly exhausted, the words “Jesus, I’m so tired” escaped my lips. At that moment, a response echoed in my spirit, urging me to press on and assuring me that this weariness was only temporary. Despite witnessing miraculous movements of God in the past, it’s natural for us to grow weary at times because, after all, we are only human.

The Lord has been guiding my attention to the book of Nehemiah, specifically chapter 4. In this chapter, Nehemiah and the workers faced persistent harassment from their enemies who opposed their efforts.

Nehemiah faced Mockery and Ridicule. He encountered opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, who mocked the Jews and doubted their ability to rebuild the wall (Nehemiah 2:19; 4:1-3). Have you ever experienced mockery, a laughing stock, because you believe God to do what He says He will do? Isaiah 54:17 says, “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.” KJV

His enemies plotted to attack Jerusalem to disrupt the construction process. Nehemiah organized guards and armed the workers in response to protect the city. (Nehemiah 4:7-9) I assure you that you will not get by without a spiritual battle. But God promises to have our backs!

Intimidation and false accusations? Oh yes, I’ve had my share of those as well. Nehemiah’s adversaries attempted to intimidate him with false accusations and threats, including a plot to assassinate him. (Nehemiah 6:5-9)

Fatigue and Discouragement: The laborers grew weary and disheartened due to the heavy workload and constant threat of attack. Nehemiah rallied them, encouraging them to remain focused and reminding them of the significance of their work. (Nehemiah 4:10-14) Remember Zechariah 4:6, … “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.”

Economic hardships resulted from a famine, leading to widespread debt and poverty. Nehemiah addressed this by implementing economic reforms and urging the wealthy to stop exploiting the poor. (Nehemiah 5:1-13). Philippians 4:19, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. KJV

The community was engulfed in fear and anxiety due to the ongoing threats. However, Nehemiah’s unwavering leadership and strong faith reassured the people, keeping them motivated despite the challenging circumstances. (Nehemiah 4:14-23).

To complete the rebuilding of all wall sections, it was essential to carefully coordinate the work and ensure that resources were managed effectively. This required detailed planning and strategic resource allocation, emphasizing the importance of efficient resource management as described in Nehemiah 3.

Night Inspections: Nehemiah conducted clandestine night inspections to assess the damage and plan the reconstruction without attracting attention from enemies. (Nehemiah 2:11-16)

“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.” Proverbs 16:3 KJV

We are facing all these, but don’t lose heart! Remember, God is there and nearer than we realize!

Be encouraged and know that He is doing something miraculous in your life. Keep praying, and keep pursuing God!

Author Darlene J. Conard

Rain starts soon, displayed on the taskbar of my computer screen. For several days, I waited for the eighty percent expected rain. Just maybe I have typed the wrong location. Nope!

Following this wonder, “When is the rain coming,” reminded me of a fishing story.

Expectations hid from the disciples the night they floated across the sea for a catch. Nothing, all night long, NOTHING! You can imagine the magnitude of frustration they experienced. Weary, disappointed, and anxious are all brought back instead of a net full of fish.

Upon their arrival, Jesus requested permission to set foot in their boat. Isn’t that just like God?

Waiting until we feel exhausted to do something? He is never exhausted and never grows weary. “Cast your net to the right of the boat.” God did the most miraculous thing at their weakest point. Matthew 13:2 

God does not rely on how we feel. That is not how He operates.

We must keep our hopes up no matter what we see, feel, think, or hear.

My friend recently shared a fascinating revelation in her blog titled “Come and Dine.” In her post, she described how she felt inspired by the Holy Ghost to look up the Hebrew numeral 153. Curious about the significance of this specific number, she was astonished to discover that it corresponds to AniElohim, which translates to “I am God.” This revelation was a powerful and profound moment for her.

We grow weary and tired of waiting for a miracle; some miracles are instantaneous, and some take time. Don’t worry while waiting for God to answer because our boat will tip from the blessing when it’s His timing.

You can watch and subscribe to Angela Dempsey’s videos and blogs on Rumble or YouTube or go to www.godfocus.net

Author Darlene J. Conard

 Mary came into alignment for God’s purpose by declaring these words, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.” (Luke 1:38 KJV)

Mary, described as highly favored by the angel of the Lord, faced numerous challenges despite her favored status. Rather than leading a life of ease, being highly favored brought her persecution, pain, and a need for sacrifice.

She became a different person the moment When the Holy Ghost overshadowed her; it became clear that a visitation from God had occurred. Similarly, after being in the presence of God on the mountain, Moses had to wear a veil over his face to conceal the radiance of God’s glory that had permeated his face. (Exodus 34:33)

In the depths of Mary’s womb, something more profound than the creation of a new life was taking place. As she was told, “Mary, you are carrying a prophecy that the enemy will stop at nothing to obliterate. Evil will emerge from its seat of power. But do not be afraid, for light will inevitably triumph over darkness, swallowing it whole.” It is written, “And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born. And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. (I will do a breakdown of these scriptures in depth)

Her position before the earth’s foundations were laid was to carry the promise that the enemy despised. He devised in every wicked way possible to stop her from delivering our Savior. Yes, earthly kings arose in haste to protect their rein. It wasn’t about flesh and blood; it was against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, and against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12) This battle would only be won by standing tall and strong on bended knees.

Beloved, know that Satan harbors contempt for the promises and calling that reside within your spiritual being. However, take courage, for you have the ability to stand up to the enemy with the unwavering declaration of God that His promises will be fulfilled! His word is an omnipotent and unwavering source of strength and reassurance in the midst of spiritual warfare.

If you wholeheartedly pursue a connection with the divine, you will witness significant personal growth and abundance in all areas of your life. My hope is that you receive the necessary inner strength and direction from God to bring about spiritual blessings and deep fulfillment. Embracing your spiritual calling is crucial in uncovering the route to prosperity and fully realizing the divine blueprint for your life.

Remind Satan that you have a promise from God and that God cannot lie! Tell your circumstance that God is in total control, and it will be as God says.

       Author Darlene J. Conard

Over the past couple of years, I have undergone profound and unsettling transformations. It’s as if the protective barriers I had constructed around myself were gradually dismantled, brick by brick, under divine guidance. Throughout 2017, I dedicated much of my time to introspection, delving deep into the recesses of my spirit in search of the scattered remnants of my being.

The process of God teaching us life lessons is often compared to a potter working with clay. The scattered bits and pieces within us represent new transitions in our lives. As I prayed about this early this morning, I had a revelation: the old fragments are sorted, and the good pieces are gathered.

He never allows the fiery furnace’s temperature to reach a degree that would destroy our lives. Instead, he beautifully and gently recreates us.

If you are uncertain about the transitions in your life now, don’t fret—it’s the Hand of the Potter.

I trust God more than I ever have. He is with us anywhere we go or face.

…. “old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

“But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.”     Isaiah 64:8 (KJV)

   But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand.”   Isaiah 64:8 (KJV)

“God does not waste an ounce of our pain or a drop of our tears; suffering doesn’t come our way for no reason, and He seems especially efficient at using what we endure to mold our character. If we are malleable, He takes our bumps and bruises and shapes them into something beautiful.  – Frank Peretti –

Author Darlene J. Conard

As the warm water cascaded over me in the shower, I pondered the idea that I might have to accept the current situation, resigned to the belief that “it is what it is. However, in a sudden moment of clarity, I heard a comforting Word in my spirit, “You don’t have to accept anything that is not of Me.”

Accepting things as they are is a basic part of our existence. We rely on the expertise and trustworthiness of professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and others in various fields. I’m not implying that we disregard these professionals’ help. But we shouldn’t leave God out.

Impossible is in no way, shape, or form a part of His character. The only impossible with God is lying.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” (James 1:17 KJV) Every object that, when in light, casts a shadow. God doesn’t have a shadow; He’s pure light.

“For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.”  2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV.

Our circumstances seem impossible when we look at them from a natural perspective. That’s why we are to pray, praise, and thank Him. While doing this, we are building ourselves upward. 

Beloved, I urge you to persevere in your journey, trusting solely in God’s guidance.

He is our protector and guidance.

Author Darlene J. Conard

It’s a profound realization that God often doesn’t change our external circumstances but transforms us to cope with them. The more time we dedicate to prayer, the more we find ourselves connected and supported by Him. He molds our character to align with His purpose.

My grandmother’s life stories are a beacon of hope and reassurance. Despite encountering seemingly impossible trials, her unwavering resilience inspires and reassures me, and I hope it does the same for you.

In 2 Corinthians 12:7-9, Paul talks about a “thorn in the flesh,” a source of anguish that Satan used to afflict him. Although he pleaded with the Lord three times to remove it, Paul received the response, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” Essentially, Paul realized that embracing his weaknesses allowed the power of Christ to rest upon him.

In 2 Corinthians 12:7-9, Paul discusses a “thorn in the flesh,” which refers to a source of anguish Satan used to afflict him. Although he pleaded with the Lord three times to remove it, Paul received the response, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” Essentially, Paul realized that embracing his weaknesses allowed the power of Christ to rest upon him.

Remember this: God will meet you there for any obstacle you face. Never lose hope, for He will never abandon you.“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.   1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (KJV

“There are parts of our calling, works of the Holy Spirit, and defeats of the darkness that will come no other way than through furious, fervent, faith-filled, unceasing prayer.” – Beth Moore

Remember the families who have lost loved ones on this treacherous day.

Heavenly father,

“You are the Almighty God, sovereign and omnipotent, and there’s none like You. Today, we raise our hearts to you on behalf of those who are grieving the loss of their loved ones. We ask for your divine comfort, a powerful force that can blanket them with reassurance and peace.

Help them embrace Your comfort in the knowledge that no evil act escapes Your notice and that You promise justice according to Deuteronomy 32:35. We implore You, Father, to grant us guidance and the ability to bring relief to those who are suffering. Strengthen us to act in ways that honor you and offer aid to those in need, O God.

Father, we may not understand everything that happens in this world, but we know that evil is not from you. Your word says in 2 Chronicles 7:14 that if your people, we who are, called by your name, turn from our wicked ways, you will heal our land. We, your devoted people, humble ourselves before You, God, and ask You to forgive us of our sins for Romans 3:23 KJV, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”

Oh Lord, we pray, pour out your magnificent and divine glory upon us, heal our wounds, and guide our nation back to unity under your compassionate leadership.

Heavenly Father, we pray for healing and unity in Jesus’ name.

Author Darlene J. Conard

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

This morning, as I awoke, I found myself reflecting on the journey of faith, often marked by moments of discouragement. Despite these challenges, it is crucial for us to remain steadfast in our resolve.

In my contemplation, certain scriptures resonated in my mind, reminding me that some prayers are swiftly answered while others have an appointed time. The passage from 2 Corinthians 1:20 states, “For all the promises of God in him are yes, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” This serves as a potent reminder that sometimes, a mere knock or two on a door isn’t sufficient. Some doors remain closed, yet to be opened by God. It’s vital for us to persist in our pursuit, to seek His guidance, and to delve deeper into His word. The act of persistent knocking serves as a testament to our unwavering perseverance, and in due course, that very door shall swing open, never to be shut.

We will transition into the next phase of our lives through unwavering persistence. Let us not surrender to despair. Instead, let us challenge Satan’s deceit and passionately claim the inheritance that awaits us, trusting in God’s promises.

“And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint” Luke 18:1 (KJV)

We’ve got to continue to pray and not lose hope.

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

The red words in the text symbolize the words spoken by Christ. This signifies that Christ is the one who will present the door before us, guiding us on our path.

Beloved, stay cheerful, keep praying, and obey Him. Watch him bring about a magnificent result!

Author Darlene J. Conard

As night enveloped my room, my need to delve into the pages of my Bible surpassed my desire for sleep. I reached under my pillow, feeling around until my fingers made contact with the familiar texture of the Book. It reminded me of the special ritual my grandmother had when choosing a Bible. She would open it gently and run her hand across the delicate, new pages as if seeking a connection beyond the words printed on them.

The Bible is unlike any other book on this earth. It is teeming with life and serves as a guide for navigating the challenges we face. It vividly depicts the triumphs and tribulations of humanity on every page, featuring the stories of kings, priests, warriors, prophets, and countless others who contended with hardship. I often found myself contemplating the unnamed individuals in the Bible—the adulterous, the centurion whose servant faced imminent death, the woman afflicted with an issue of blood, and many more. What unites them all is their refusal to accept their circumstances, ultimately leading them to redemption through their faith in Jesus. Their names are not the focal point; rather, it is their unwavering faith that stands out. Undoubtedly, there are people today who can relate to these stories and seek answers, saying, “I am grappling with challenges just like the woman with the issue of blood. How can I break free from a life of struggle?” Is there a remedy for drug and alcohol addictions that carries no adverse effects? The answer lies in Jesus, who offers a solution for every need, anywhere. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2 Timothy 3:16 KJV

The song “Dust on The Bible” was penned by Mac Wiseman. There have been numerous occasions when I have regrettably neglected to pick up my Bible to read it. This happened either due to feelings of discouragement or because I was overwhelmed by busyness and fatigue. I ask for forgiveness from God for these shortcomings.

“He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”  John 1:11-14 KJV

Hebrews 6:13 describes the sincerity of Abraham’s promise to father a great nation. …“Because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, ”says it all.

I yearn to transcend the outer courts and enter into His throne room, His domain.

There is only one truth and it’s His word.

Author Darlene J. Conard

^“ For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;”

In our daily lives, our human tendencies often obstruct God’s intentions. During a recent prayer, I found myself seeking the Lord’s assistance in overcoming my doubt, much like the Centurion did when he asked Jesus to heal his servant. The Centurion, a man of authority, humbly expressed unworthiness in inviting Jesus into his home, saying, “Just say the word, and it will be done” (Matthew 8:5-9). This powerful plea resonates with me today: “Just say the word, and it shall be done.”

For several weeks, the intensity of spiritual warfare felt too much. One night, I envisioned a page containing sentences, but specific details were left out. I saw myself as the enemy whispered in my ear, accepting words of fate to fill in the blank. Then I saw the Lord’s finger blotting them out. “No, Darlene, those are not the correct answers.

“God, I’ve heard everyone else’s words about these situations. I want to know what You say.” His answers were wholesome, full of life, and an expected end. He will answer!

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, not evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. … ye shall seek and find me when you shall search for me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13 KJV

We have to remind ourselves multiple times, “I am not fighting against flesh and blood. Literally, we are beating the air, getting nowhere but worn down. Learning not to fill in the blanks of our life story is taking the pen out of God’s hand. I want to encourage you to meditate on things that are from above.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8 KJV

I assure you His report is completely different!