A Beautiful Gift

Yesterday I received the most beautiful gift in the mail: a leather bound New Testament from Kenneth Copeland, KJV version. It was a gift given to his partners and is very unique because it includes over a hundred pages of bible study outlines and ALL of his margin notes, highlights, and biblical references! What a treasure!

I have learned so much from him over the years and feel like I've been able to snatch a book off his private book shelf. He is a bold man of God who believes for monumental things. I still find it hard to believe so many nasty things are said about him on the Internet, particularly by other professing Christians. But he doesn't let any of that stop him. He keeps on believing and preaching.

Thank you, Brother Copeland! I will cherish this always!

Soar with The Lord

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 NIV.

Here is a word from the Lord I received today while praying and praising along with Hillsong this morning: "Lay down your own plans, flow with My Spirit, and you will soar with Me!"

As I thought about this word and reflected on it, I was reminded of Isaiah 40:31, one of my favorite Old Testament verses. I love imagining soaring in the air like a bald eagle, floating high above the cares and worries of this world and the fear tactics the enemy uses against us to lure us into doubting God's promises. At that high altitude, it is so much easier to bask in the Father's love and experience the shalom Peace of our Savior. 

As a bit of background, I will tell you how this word came to me. Several weeks ago, I had a very vivid dream where I was standing on a sandy beach with other people, wading in ankle deep water. The ocean was vast and calm, and I had plans to venture out further for a swim. But then suddenly, a very large, black horse emerged out of the waves, followed by a entire army of riders and warriors on dark horses that extended down the beach for as far as the eye could see--creating a barricade! We were all frightened out of our wits! But after a moment, I saw that these riders were really a dark, stony edifice of warring soldiers that one might see in a frieze on an old Greek temple or building. The point was, it was just a facade meant to scare me--and it worked! But only for a moment, because when I realized there was no real life in these riders, I said, "I'm not afraid of this!" As soon as these words left my lips, I woke up. 

Yes, it was a very strange dream but comforting as well. Here's what I received from it: Fear tactics from the enemy cannot master or rule over a believer who knows the Father's promises and the power and authority he has been given in the Name of Jesus! Later that day, I received more revelation as I thought more about the dream--in my mind's eye I saw the entire facade of riders melt down into the sea like wax! Psalms 112:10 says The wicked shall see [it], and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish. 

Basically, I believe what the Lord is saying is that these temptations to fear are simply roars by a toothless lion that are merely temporary. Therefore, don't give in to the lies and believe in these idle threats when they come! Keep your focus on Jesus and His Word and then the enemy will melt away.

So today as I prayed, I saw the Lord holding my hand as we soared high above the beach where those riders had stood. By laying down my own plans and desires and flowing with His spirit, I can then soar up high with Him, where I can see things from His perspective and not that of this fallen world. Praise God! Isn't that a wonderful gift He has given the church?  I have such peace knowing His Word is true and His promises are sure! He has all of His children firmly by the hand and will never let us go. 

My Father, which gave [them] me, is greater than all; and no [man] is able to pluck [them] out of my Father's hand. John 10:29