The story of Esther ends with this champion of Israel saving the people. Her willingness to enter the race, her obedience to her authorities, her ability to sacrifice and surrender, and her wisdom in dealing with the enemy brought her victory. She was able to triumph in the middle of crisis. The devil lost, and Esther and her people won!
Esther the champion did something we should all do. She planned her strategy and found a course to take so they might win the battle. She knew the cost involved could mean her life.
Good planners make successful leaders. Joseph, through a dream from the Lord, knew he had to plan for seven good years and seven bad years. Noah knew through the Lord speaking to him that he had to plan for a flood. He heard the voice of God who told him how to fashion (plan) the ark. Moses received plans for the tabernacle. David dreamed about building the temple where God could dwell, and his son Solomon continued that dream, planning and completing it.
Champions are rising all over the world today. Champions of righteousness are coming on the scene. Champions are expecting the Lord to work on their behalf. They are delighted to be serving God and His children. Recognizing they have a purpose on this earth, they desire to fulfill the assignments God has entrusted to them.
No matter who you are or where you come from, God desires to make a champion out of you. Take a step of faith and put your scepter out to the King. Ask Him for favor and release your gifts and calling to Him. The King will welcome your presence, hear your request, and grant you your petition.
Lord, make us all champions for You!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Women Champions - 11
Once they pass the contest, champions get a crown. Esther's dream was that she became a queen. In our case, we might become smarter, wiser, or more discerning. When the crowns come after the testing, we move into a new level of authority. Often our anointing increases and our faith reaches for higher goals for the Kingdom of God.
Sacrifice is part of the walk of a champion. People who desire to make a difference in this world quickly discover their life is not their own. Opportunities come to make choices that either benefit society or benefit ourselves. Over the years in ministry, many times my husband and I have had to give things up for others to be helped. More than once we made choices to help others that required the loss of our own desires.
Esther discovered that championship required her having to surrender position, power, prestige, and future plans for herself. She had to choose the safety of her people over her own life. In the process of making such a choice, we discover what life really means to us. The Bible says that the person who lives to save his life will lose it anyway. (Matthew 16: 25)
It is better to surrender to the Lordship of Christ and let Him guide us in these decisions. Esther's position of privilege did not exempt her from God's requirements of her.
Champions face devils, mountains, obstacles, choices, and even their own heart. Just how far will you go to affect your world? Just how far are you willing to surrender? Some people will not surrender their time, money, information they carry, their heart, or their life. A true champion will surrender whatever God requires.
How do you see areas you have surrendered as bringing "championship" into your own life? I'd love to hear from you!
Sacrifice is part of the walk of a champion. People who desire to make a difference in this world quickly discover their life is not their own. Opportunities come to make choices that either benefit society or benefit ourselves. Over the years in ministry, many times my husband and I have had to give things up for others to be helped. More than once we made choices to help others that required the loss of our own desires.
Esther discovered that championship required her having to surrender position, power, prestige, and future plans for herself. She had to choose the safety of her people over her own life. In the process of making such a choice, we discover what life really means to us. The Bible says that the person who lives to save his life will lose it anyway. (Matthew 16: 25)
It is better to surrender to the Lordship of Christ and let Him guide us in these decisions. Esther's position of privilege did not exempt her from God's requirements of her.
Champions face devils, mountains, obstacles, choices, and even their own heart. Just how far will you go to affect your world? Just how far are you willing to surrender? Some people will not surrender their time, money, information they carry, their heart, or their life. A true champion will surrender whatever God requires.
How do you see areas you have surrendered as bringing "championship" into your own life? I'd love to hear from you!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Women Champions - 10
Champions are definitely well-developed communicators. They have learned when to speak and when not to speak. They have learned that words carry power. Esther knew that some things should remain quiet and hidden until needed or necessary. Trusting her uncle's judgment, she did not reveal her heritage.
In our own lives, in trusting the Holy Spirit, we learn what to say and when to say it. Mordecai was to Esther like the Holy Spirit is to us. He was her confidant, advocate, and friend. Esther could trust him to lead her in the right direction and to give her wise counsel. Women champions learn to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit as He teaches them to communicate.
Esther never asked for anything more than what the King's eunuch suggested. She was wise to yield to someone who knew the King well. Learning to walk like a champion requires each of us to listen to those who have served our King, our Lord Jesus, longer than us. They have learned His likes and dislikes. They know what clothing to wear, what manners to demonstrate, what ethics to follow, and what heartfelt participation to give. Esther knew the eunuch wanted her to do well!
There are many wonderful people in the Body of Christ who can encourage us, teach us, and help us develop as champions as well. We just need to ask questions and listen to the answers. We must learn the "ministry talk" as Esther learned the "palace talk".
Over the years of preparation for ministry, I have had many moments of success and many others not so successful. In each situation, I had a choice to make: either I allow the situation to mature me in the Lord, or I allow the devil to destroy me with depression or pride. Please remember, Satan never plays fair. When God is developing us into His champions of faith and courage, we must learn to roll with the punches and press through the barriers. Esther had her challenges to face, but her attitude would decide whether she would win or fail.
Maybe you could share with me one of your experiences where you had a choice to mature or be destroyed, and tell us the outcome of that choice. I would LOVE to hear from you today!
In our own lives, in trusting the Holy Spirit, we learn what to say and when to say it. Mordecai was to Esther like the Holy Spirit is to us. He was her confidant, advocate, and friend. Esther could trust him to lead her in the right direction and to give her wise counsel. Women champions learn to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit as He teaches them to communicate.
Esther never asked for anything more than what the King's eunuch suggested. She was wise to yield to someone who knew the King well. Learning to walk like a champion requires each of us to listen to those who have served our King, our Lord Jesus, longer than us. They have learned His likes and dislikes. They know what clothing to wear, what manners to demonstrate, what ethics to follow, and what heartfelt participation to give. Esther knew the eunuch wanted her to do well!
There are many wonderful people in the Body of Christ who can encourage us, teach us, and help us develop as champions as well. We just need to ask questions and listen to the answers. We must learn the "ministry talk" as Esther learned the "palace talk".
Over the years of preparation for ministry, I have had many moments of success and many others not so successful. In each situation, I had a choice to make: either I allow the situation to mature me in the Lord, or I allow the devil to destroy me with depression or pride. Please remember, Satan never plays fair. When God is developing us into His champions of faith and courage, we must learn to roll with the punches and press through the barriers. Esther had her challenges to face, but her attitude would decide whether she would win or fail.
Maybe you could share with me one of your experiences where you had a choice to mature or be destroyed, and tell us the outcome of that choice. I would LOVE to hear from you today!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Women Champions - 9
Champions often end up in a season of preparation like no other. Esther sat for six months over a charcoal fire in a pit on the floor! Fragrant oils like sandalwood, myrrh, cloves, or rose would be put into the cosmetic burner. With all her clothes off, she crouched over the burner with a robe draped over her head and body to create a tent. She was in a literal steam room, perspiring and smelling all those fragrances. She had those fragrances "cooked" into her skin through the hot steam.
Have you noticed this.....that preparation for championship often sends us to the "sweatshop?" Have you ever found yourself in a "hot" situation only to discover what comes out of your pores is not the sweet fragrance of the Lord? I have found that we end up back in the "sweatshop" until our "flavor" (words and attitude) smells sweet?
Maybe you'd like to share with us one of your "sweatshop" experiences where God brought you out of a "stinky" situation smelling like a championship rose!
Have you noticed this.....that preparation for championship often sends us to the "sweatshop?" Have you ever found yourself in a "hot" situation only to discover what comes out of your pores is not the sweet fragrance of the Lord? I have found that we end up back in the "sweatshop" until our "flavor" (words and attitude) smells sweet?
Maybe you'd like to share with us one of your "sweatshop" experiences where God brought you out of a "stinky" situation smelling like a championship rose!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Women Champions - 8
Champions align themselves with the right company. Esther joined hearts with Hegai, the custodian of the women. The minute Hegai met her, he liked her. Esther became his "project," teaching her the in's and out's of palace life.
Champions also walk in favor. We see favor on Esther's life as she received special treatment, extra blessings, and privileges. Her whole life may not have been that way, but all of a sudden, things started to happen to her benefit.
As well, champions have to be willing to change. We can not expect to become a champion, walk like a champion, or even live like one unless we make changes in our lives. Esther went through changes of location, of internal thinking, of environment, and of dress, clothes, and perfumes. She also had to change her mental image of herself from an orphan to a queen. Can you imagine the wrestling that went on in her heart and mind as God worked these changes in her?
Good company.....favor.....willingness to change.....how do any of these championship qualities ring true with you and your experiences?
Champions also walk in favor. We see favor on Esther's life as she received special treatment, extra blessings, and privileges. Her whole life may not have been that way, but all of a sudden, things started to happen to her benefit.
As well, champions have to be willing to change. We can not expect to become a champion, walk like a champion, or even live like one unless we make changes in our lives. Esther went through changes of location, of internal thinking, of environment, and of dress, clothes, and perfumes. She also had to change her mental image of herself from an orphan to a queen. Can you imagine the wrestling that went on in her heart and mind as God worked these changes in her?
Good company.....favor.....willingness to change.....how do any of these championship qualities ring true with you and your experiences?
Friday, June 12, 2009
Letter from Rev. Kathy Sprague of Lady Lake, Florida
I am Rev. Kathryn Sprague. I joined WIMN after 17 years of international missions trips and graduating from Bible College in 2000. For the past year I have been on staff at St. George Episcopal Church in The Villages, Florida, functioning as the Director of Pastoral Care for a congregation of 800 elderly (age 75+) retirees. : )
Today I come to WIMN, asking members to consider making a pledge to pray for America every day for the rest of 2009. Together, let’s see what God will do on behalf of this nation. I know that all of us TRULY LOVE America, but we must come together in the spirit realm and PRAY for God's hand to move, not only on our behalf, but also on the behalf of our children and their futures.
II Chronicles tells of the reign of Solomon, the building of the Temple, kings, wars, and civil strife. But as we look at chapter seven, we find a moment when God answers Solomon’s prayer and fire comes down and consumes the burnt sacrifice. The glory of the Lord fills the Temple and the priests of the Lord can not enter the house of God because the glory had filled it to full measure (vs. 1-2).
We observe that all the children of Israel saw the fire come down and the Glory fill the Temple. The Scripture says that they bowed themselves low with their faces upon the pavement and worshiped. From this experience of God's Glory, Solomon and all the people began giving finances, sacrificing burnt offerings, and praising the Lord for a festival of dedication for 23 days. In the unfolding of II Chronicles 7:14, God’s response to a leader who built and dedicated his work to God was that fresh revelation begins to unfold.
God appears to Solomon alone at night and teaches him the “IF” lesson. Verse 14 becomes a revelatory Scripture, releasing enlightenment concerning the answers and provision for which we are all searching. "IF My people, which are called by My Name, will HUMBLE themselves and PRAY, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." Each phrase of this Scripture is significant. I would like to share one phrase that changed my spiritual life forever.
Over two years ago, my husband Randall and I ministered on a regular basis in Council Bluffs, IA at Victory Fellowship Church. Senior Pastor Lonnie Parton felt led by the Spirit to conduct a program called "The Divine Experiment.” We were instructed to “FAST” all normal entertainment such as TV, movies, video games, etc. Our time outside of prayer/work hours was to be actions that would bring family members together. Families were to spend time together doing loving actions such as picnics, board games, talking together, singing…anything that was a face to face interaction between all family members.
Yet, the KEY FOCUS for each person in our church was the II Chronicles 7:14 prayers. As a Church body, we watched God start to do extraordinary things! Family relationships were healed, prodigal children returned home, and a man who walked with two canes was healed. I was fortunate to be the scribe that penned all the miracles the Lord performed in that three week period of “separation before God.”
As I began to meditate the first sentence of that Scripture day after day…"If MY PEOPLE who are called by MY NAME will humble themselves and pray”…the Lord began ministering to me in a deep way. He revealed to my spirit that the current level of humility at which I was praying could only bring a low level of prayer effectiveness. God is such a loving Father! When He chastens or gives you correction, He does not leave you sad, but is willing to immediately give you the answer to your dilemma. He was showing me that it was not the “form” of prayer that was affecting the Heavenlies, but it was a core attitude level within me that would affect my prayer’s yield.
IF I WOULD JUST BOW MYSELF LOWER (body, soul, and spirit) and then pray out of that lowliness, God would hear and answer. What an illumination!
Did you know that each one of us have within us dregs of religious pride, unforgiveness, ego, hormonal aggression, etc.? For 21 days I forcefully meditated that first phrase of II Chronicles 7:14, repenting day and night of anything and everything the Lord brought to mind that would keep me from the lower position. I would hear Him say, “NO, KATHY…go lower.” It became a passion to see how low I could go. I knew there would be gold at the end of the trail!
Experiencing this Scriptural illumination, I did two things that were seemingly effective:
1. I gave God my "time" for three weeks. I seriously sought the Holy Spirit’s help every day for at least an hour, asking Him to help me humble myself to the level that HE could effectively move upon my prayers.
2. At the end of the third week of fasting and praying this first phrase of II Chronicles 7:14, I was roused out of my sleep early one morning. I felt a shaft of Light move through my being, unlike anything I've experienced before. I sensed a crystal sword enter my spirit, soul, and body, moving and undulating to its holy presence . The presence of the Light was so clean and so pure that my being vibrated with its glorious attributes. I could only imagine that praying out of this atmosphere would change my life and those around me. I oozed life, overwhelmed in the loving presence of God. I loved everyone and prayer was like a river of gold.
In that wonderful experience, I truthfully learned the lesson of HUMILITY. The Holy Spirit revealed the "Light of Christ" when I humbled myself and prayed.
Today I am asking you to set your heart upon praying II Chronicles 7:14 as you have never done before. True revelation will ALWAYS, and I mean ALWAYS, bring demonstration. Go get yours! And please, e-mail this WIMN Blog when He moves on your behalf to share with all our WIMN members the goodness of our God!
What do you need God to do in your family, your church, and your nation today? I submit.....humble yourself and pray.
Today I come to WIMN, asking members to consider making a pledge to pray for America every day for the rest of 2009. Together, let’s see what God will do on behalf of this nation. I know that all of us TRULY LOVE America, but we must come together in the spirit realm and PRAY for God's hand to move, not only on our behalf, but also on the behalf of our children and their futures.
II Chronicles tells of the reign of Solomon, the building of the Temple, kings, wars, and civil strife. But as we look at chapter seven, we find a moment when God answers Solomon’s prayer and fire comes down and consumes the burnt sacrifice. The glory of the Lord fills the Temple and the priests of the Lord can not enter the house of God because the glory had filled it to full measure (vs. 1-2).
We observe that all the children of Israel saw the fire come down and the Glory fill the Temple. The Scripture says that they bowed themselves low with their faces upon the pavement and worshiped. From this experience of God's Glory, Solomon and all the people began giving finances, sacrificing burnt offerings, and praising the Lord for a festival of dedication for 23 days. In the unfolding of II Chronicles 7:14, God’s response to a leader who built and dedicated his work to God was that fresh revelation begins to unfold.
God appears to Solomon alone at night and teaches him the “IF” lesson. Verse 14 becomes a revelatory Scripture, releasing enlightenment concerning the answers and provision for which we are all searching. "IF My people, which are called by My Name, will HUMBLE themselves and PRAY, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." Each phrase of this Scripture is significant. I would like to share one phrase that changed my spiritual life forever.
Over two years ago, my husband Randall and I ministered on a regular basis in Council Bluffs, IA at Victory Fellowship Church. Senior Pastor Lonnie Parton felt led by the Spirit to conduct a program called "The Divine Experiment.” We were instructed to “FAST” all normal entertainment such as TV, movies, video games, etc. Our time outside of prayer/work hours was to be actions that would bring family members together. Families were to spend time together doing loving actions such as picnics, board games, talking together, singing…anything that was a face to face interaction between all family members.
Yet, the KEY FOCUS for each person in our church was the II Chronicles 7:14 prayers. As a Church body, we watched God start to do extraordinary things! Family relationships were healed, prodigal children returned home, and a man who walked with two canes was healed. I was fortunate to be the scribe that penned all the miracles the Lord performed in that three week period of “separation before God.”
As I began to meditate the first sentence of that Scripture day after day…"If MY PEOPLE who are called by MY NAME will humble themselves and pray”…the Lord began ministering to me in a deep way. He revealed to my spirit that the current level of humility at which I was praying could only bring a low level of prayer effectiveness. God is such a loving Father! When He chastens or gives you correction, He does not leave you sad, but is willing to immediately give you the answer to your dilemma. He was showing me that it was not the “form” of prayer that was affecting the Heavenlies, but it was a core attitude level within me that would affect my prayer’s yield.
IF I WOULD JUST BOW MYSELF LOWER (body, soul, and spirit) and then pray out of that lowliness, God would hear and answer. What an illumination!
Did you know that each one of us have within us dregs of religious pride, unforgiveness, ego, hormonal aggression, etc.? For 21 days I forcefully meditated that first phrase of II Chronicles 7:14, repenting day and night of anything and everything the Lord brought to mind that would keep me from the lower position. I would hear Him say, “NO, KATHY…go lower.” It became a passion to see how low I could go. I knew there would be gold at the end of the trail!
Experiencing this Scriptural illumination, I did two things that were seemingly effective:
1. I gave God my "time" for three weeks. I seriously sought the Holy Spirit’s help every day for at least an hour, asking Him to help me humble myself to the level that HE could effectively move upon my prayers.
2. At the end of the third week of fasting and praying this first phrase of II Chronicles 7:14, I was roused out of my sleep early one morning. I felt a shaft of Light move through my being, unlike anything I've experienced before. I sensed a crystal sword enter my spirit, soul, and body, moving and undulating to its holy presence . The presence of the Light was so clean and so pure that my being vibrated with its glorious attributes. I could only imagine that praying out of this atmosphere would change my life and those around me. I oozed life, overwhelmed in the loving presence of God. I loved everyone and prayer was like a river of gold.
In that wonderful experience, I truthfully learned the lesson of HUMILITY. The Holy Spirit revealed the "Light of Christ" when I humbled myself and prayed.
Today I am asking you to set your heart upon praying II Chronicles 7:14 as you have never done before. True revelation will ALWAYS, and I mean ALWAYS, bring demonstration. Go get yours! And please, e-mail this WIMN Blog when He moves on your behalf to share with all our WIMN members the goodness of our God!
What do you need God to do in your family, your church, and your nation today? I submit.....humble yourself and pray.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Women Champions - 7
Esther is my favorite woman champion, maybe because she had so many odds against her as an orphan, or maybe because she was such a powerful queen. I do not know, but I love Esther and everything she represents. Whether we see her as a symbol of the Body of Christ or of ourselves personally, does not matter. Either way, she represents a champion of righteousness.
Esther's story begins around 438 B.C. The King and his Queen Vashti had been partying for six months! The party lasted so long in order that everyone in the kingdom could attend. The culminating banquet was seven days long, ending with Queen Vashti making an entrance.
For some reason, when she was summoned by the King, she refused to come. Some scholars say she was pregnant, some say she had her own party going. Others think she was not in the mood to be paraded around in front of drunk men. No matter what her reason, Queen Vashti said no, and the King ended up dismissing her as Queen. This led to a search for a replacement, and through that process, Esther became the choice of the King.
Where do we find the champion in this story? What do we see about a champion in the making? First of all, champions get into the race or enter the contest. There is no champion made unless a battle is won, unless a competition takes place.
Esther joined the fight for a queen. Even with all the odds against her, Esther entered the contest. She was an orphan, a foreigner, a very young girl, and completely inexperienced. Yet, she did not allow those barriers to hinder her.
How about you? What examples do you have from your life where you chose to "enter the contest" or "get into the race?" I'd love to hear how your willingness to join a battle ended in your winning a championship crown!
Esther's story begins around 438 B.C. The King and his Queen Vashti had been partying for six months! The party lasted so long in order that everyone in the kingdom could attend. The culminating banquet was seven days long, ending with Queen Vashti making an entrance.
For some reason, when she was summoned by the King, she refused to come. Some scholars say she was pregnant, some say she had her own party going. Others think she was not in the mood to be paraded around in front of drunk men. No matter what her reason, Queen Vashti said no, and the King ended up dismissing her as Queen. This led to a search for a replacement, and through that process, Esther became the choice of the King.
Where do we find the champion in this story? What do we see about a champion in the making? First of all, champions get into the race or enter the contest. There is no champion made unless a battle is won, unless a competition takes place.
Esther joined the fight for a queen. Even with all the odds against her, Esther entered the contest. She was an orphan, a foreigner, a very young girl, and completely inexperienced. Yet, she did not allow those barriers to hinder her.
How about you? What examples do you have from your life where you chose to "enter the contest" or "get into the race?" I'd love to hear how your willingness to join a battle ended in your winning a championship crown!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Women Champions - 6
Hannah was another woman champion of persistence, perseverance, passion, and prayer. She was not going to give up until she got her blessing. A woman, scorned and barren, wanted desperately to have a child, and she took her care to the Lord, pouring out her heart at the altar.
Women champions are also women of prayer. Hannah knew her situation was hopeless unless God heard her. Comparison was torturing her mind, and she knew to conquer her pain and barrenness, divine intervention had to come. Thank God the prophet saw her and spoke life to her?
Hannah, a champion of prayer, gave birth to a son, Samuel. As well, this son Samuel also became not only a champion of prayer, but a champion of God's voice to the earth. (1 Samuel 1: 1-28)
How has God answered YOUR champion prayers? I'd love to hear how you have been blessed from the Lord through your persistence, perseverance, passion, and prayer as a woman champion!
Women champions are also women of prayer. Hannah knew her situation was hopeless unless God heard her. Comparison was torturing her mind, and she knew to conquer her pain and barrenness, divine intervention had to come. Thank God the prophet saw her and spoke life to her?
Hannah, a champion of prayer, gave birth to a son, Samuel. As well, this son Samuel also became not only a champion of prayer, but a champion of God's voice to the earth. (1 Samuel 1: 1-28)
How has God answered YOUR champion prayers? I'd love to hear how you have been blessed from the Lord through your persistence, perseverance, passion, and prayer as a woman champion!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Women Champions - 5
The Bible character Abigail ( 1 Samuel 25 ) is a tremendous example for us of a woman champion. Married to a foolish man with a total lack of common sense, she overcomes the enemy of death.
David, the future king of Israel, in the process of running from Saul, finds himself and his men in need of food. He sends his messengers to Abigail's husband, Nabal, for help. Nabal responds in a crude, disrespectful way and refuses to help David and his men. The young men return to David and tell him Nabal will not help. Angry and upset, David calls on four hundred men to go to war with Nabal to destroy his sheep and land.
Abigail hears about the problem and immediately takes action. Champions know when something must be done! She hurries and gathers two hundred loaves of bread, two jugs of wine, five sheep already prepared, five measures of roasted grain, a hundred clusters of raisins, twenty cakes of figs, and loads it all on donkeys. She then sends the men and the goods ahead of her and she follows on her donkey.
When she meets David, she humbles herself and begs for mercy with a heart of humility and wisdom. Thankfully, David listens to her and bloodshed is avoided. Abigail took a risk putting her own life on the line, but in turn she saved her family and herself by doing so. She was a woman champion in the midst of a difficult situation.
I have met many women like Abigail who have had to divinely intervene when husbands were making foolish choices. Some women have had to take the checkbook and become the one who paid the bills because the husband gambled their money away. Other women have had to dress the children for church and get them to services on their own because the husband like to stay in bed. There are women I know who sent to work to pay bills because the husband sat home on disability and was content to watch television all day. Abigail was married to a drunk, and she knew she had to intervene when his drunken behavior was costing others their lives!
I'm sure you know women who are champions like I've mentioned here -- women who step up to the challenges of life and bring success into the most difficult situations. Perhaps that even is YOU!
David, the future king of Israel, in the process of running from Saul, finds himself and his men in need of food. He sends his messengers to Abigail's husband, Nabal, for help. Nabal responds in a crude, disrespectful way and refuses to help David and his men. The young men return to David and tell him Nabal will not help. Angry and upset, David calls on four hundred men to go to war with Nabal to destroy his sheep and land.
Abigail hears about the problem and immediately takes action. Champions know when something must be done! She hurries and gathers two hundred loaves of bread, two jugs of wine, five sheep already prepared, five measures of roasted grain, a hundred clusters of raisins, twenty cakes of figs, and loads it all on donkeys. She then sends the men and the goods ahead of her and she follows on her donkey.
When she meets David, she humbles herself and begs for mercy with a heart of humility and wisdom. Thankfully, David listens to her and bloodshed is avoided. Abigail took a risk putting her own life on the line, but in turn she saved her family and herself by doing so. She was a woman champion in the midst of a difficult situation.
I have met many women like Abigail who have had to divinely intervene when husbands were making foolish choices. Some women have had to take the checkbook and become the one who paid the bills because the husband gambled their money away. Other women have had to dress the children for church and get them to services on their own because the husband like to stay in bed. There are women I know who sent to work to pay bills because the husband sat home on disability and was content to watch television all day. Abigail was married to a drunk, and she knew she had to intervene when his drunken behavior was costing others their lives!
I'm sure you know women who are champions like I've mentioned here -- women who step up to the challenges of life and bring success into the most difficult situations. Perhaps that even is YOU!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Women Champions - 4
Have any of you champions out there faced opposition? Opposition is a contrary view, an opposing idea or thought. Opposition surfaces when the champion is making headway or taking territory. The Word says in Matthew 5: 11-12, "Blessed are you when men cast insults at you and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely on account of Me. Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
The Bible also reminds us in Matthew 6: 1, "You are the salt of the earth." You women of God out there are the champions of flavor and truth! So what if a little persecution comes our way? We are just salting the earth and bring in the light of Christ!
Today why don't you click on the comment button at the end of this post and share with all of us an experience in which a situation of opposition in your life brought forth the "saltiness" within and revealed the light of Christ to others!
The Bible also reminds us in Matthew 6: 1, "You are the salt of the earth." You women of God out there are the champions of flavor and truth! So what if a little persecution comes our way? We are just salting the earth and bring in the light of Christ!
Today why don't you click on the comment button at the end of this post and share with all of us an experience in which a situation of opposition in your life brought forth the "saltiness" within and revealed the light of Christ to others!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Women Champions - 3
What does the story of Joseph show us about being a champion? Well first, we see that this champion had an inner knowing that God had a purpose for him. Secondly, his very nature was one of a winner, as it brought him favor everywhere he went. God, Who knows all things, was guiding and leading each situation, but Joseph was also doing his part by walking in integrity and honor. He was not lazy but rather diligent, faithful, and consistent. In the end, Joseph's godly virtues led him to success and to saving a nation from famine.
Champions have many common characteristics. They know how to love their enemies and overcome hurt. Seeing the world through God's love, champions make excellent decisions, perceive things positively, and make good choices.
Champions sometimes find themselves having to make difficult decisions. I am sure Joseph thought about the possible consequences of his "no" to Potiphar's wife, but he also realized a man without virtue is no man at all.
Each of us is, or has been, in a place of making tough calls. Sometimes our choices can cause pain to someone else, but the decision must be based on the honorable thing before God. Decisions can create division, and yet champions are called on by God to make those choices. The Pharisees did not like Jesus because of the choices He made. No champion is developed or fashioned without having to make the tough calls.
How about you? What tough calls have you made where you know those decisions developed your championship character? Please feel free to share with us how God helped groom the champion in you through making tough choices.
Champions have many common characteristics. They know how to love their enemies and overcome hurt. Seeing the world through God's love, champions make excellent decisions, perceive things positively, and make good choices.
Champions sometimes find themselves having to make difficult decisions. I am sure Joseph thought about the possible consequences of his "no" to Potiphar's wife, but he also realized a man without virtue is no man at all.
Each of us is, or has been, in a place of making tough calls. Sometimes our choices can cause pain to someone else, but the decision must be based on the honorable thing before God. Decisions can create division, and yet champions are called on by God to make those choices. The Pharisees did not like Jesus because of the choices He made. No champion is developed or fashioned without having to make the tough calls.
How about you? What tough calls have you made where you know those decisions developed your championship character? Please feel free to share with us how God helped groom the champion in you through making tough choices.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Women Champions - 2
One of my favorite champions is Joseph. Here is a young man, his father's favorite, who has a dream in which he sees his family paying homage to him. By telling his family the dream, it stirs up jealousy, hatred, and murder.
His brothers plot to destroy him and end up throwing him into a pit to die. Eventually he is found and sold to Midianite traders into slavery and taken to a foreign land to serve an Egyptian officer named Potiphar. Joseph became a personal assistant and overseer to everything Potiphar owned.
There in Egypt Joseph's championship nature starts to bring him favor. He is successful at everything given to him to do. In fact, the Scriptures say Potiphar left everything he owned in Joseph's charge and with Joseph there, Potiphar did not concern himself with anything except the food that he ate.
Joseph had become to Potiphar a champion overseer. But Potiphar's wife decided SHE wanted Joseph's assistance as well, only NOT in a godly way! She tempted Joseph, trying to seduce him and get him to betray his master. Champions in the making often face choices that reveal their character. However, Joseph was not going to lose his integrity for a moment of sexual pleasure. I wonder how many lose their potential blessing because they fail when they are similarly challenged?
To be a champion requires champion thinking, and Joseph knew his integrity was at stake. He chose integrity and ended up in prison. Sometimes when I think about the people in our prisons today, I wonder if there are many Josephs behind those bars -- champions who choose integrity and therefore loss for a season.
Champions never stay down, though, and even in prison, Joseph rose to leadership, becoming a helper to the chief jailer. Eventually Joseph interpreted dreams for two men. Those dream interpretations led Joseph to the Pharoah and finally into a championship role as second in command.
What "pits" have you found yourself in that later proved to be just stepping stones because of the championship character you exhibited in those situations?
His brothers plot to destroy him and end up throwing him into a pit to die. Eventually he is found and sold to Midianite traders into slavery and taken to a foreign land to serve an Egyptian officer named Potiphar. Joseph became a personal assistant and overseer to everything Potiphar owned.
There in Egypt Joseph's championship nature starts to bring him favor. He is successful at everything given to him to do. In fact, the Scriptures say Potiphar left everything he owned in Joseph's charge and with Joseph there, Potiphar did not concern himself with anything except the food that he ate.
Joseph had become to Potiphar a champion overseer. But Potiphar's wife decided SHE wanted Joseph's assistance as well, only NOT in a godly way! She tempted Joseph, trying to seduce him and get him to betray his master. Champions in the making often face choices that reveal their character. However, Joseph was not going to lose his integrity for a moment of sexual pleasure. I wonder how many lose their potential blessing because they fail when they are similarly challenged?
To be a champion requires champion thinking, and Joseph knew his integrity was at stake. He chose integrity and ended up in prison. Sometimes when I think about the people in our prisons today, I wonder if there are many Josephs behind those bars -- champions who choose integrity and therefore loss for a season.
Champions never stay down, though, and even in prison, Joseph rose to leadership, becoming a helper to the chief jailer. Eventually Joseph interpreted dreams for two men. Those dream interpretations led Joseph to the Pharoah and finally into a championship role as second in command.
What "pits" have you found yourself in that later proved to be just stepping stones because of the championship character you exhibited in those situations?
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Women Champions - 1
Everyone loves a champion. We have champions in history, sports, civil rights, and more. Champions are defined as people who have won a race, been victorious through an obstacle, conquered in battle, or overcome a hurdle. Champions are looked up to, emulated, and talked about -- some for centuries, others just momentarily.
A few years ago my father-in-law went home to be with the Lord. He was 84 years old, and to all our family members, he was a bona fide champion. He spent a lifetime helping people in all sorts of capacities. His funeral was attended by all ages, from young children to senior citizens, each with a story to tell of how this man had touched their lives. He had shoveled walks for the elderly never taking a dollar for his services, brought food to the hungry, and provided jobs for the unemployed. This champion had invested his life in others.
Most certainly we can find champions in the Scriptures. Their stories were included in God's Word to encourage us and serve as role models for developing our own spiritual lives. Joshua, called to march into the Promised Land, was told to be strong and courageous. He couldn't be a champion if he feared the giants in the land.
Moses withstood the pressures of a king, a culture, and a rebellious people that we might see him bring deliverance to a people in bondage. Gideon felt he was the least in Manasseh and the youngest in his father's house. Yet God called him to be a champion. This champion asked for favor and signs to prove God was talking to him (Judges 6). He did not feel like a champion, but he was called to be one.
What other Bible characters can you think of who demonstrate championship in their lives? I'd love to hear how their exploits have helped you press on!
A few years ago my father-in-law went home to be with the Lord. He was 84 years old, and to all our family members, he was a bona fide champion. He spent a lifetime helping people in all sorts of capacities. His funeral was attended by all ages, from young children to senior citizens, each with a story to tell of how this man had touched their lives. He had shoveled walks for the elderly never taking a dollar for his services, brought food to the hungry, and provided jobs for the unemployed. This champion had invested his life in others.
Most certainly we can find champions in the Scriptures. Their stories were included in God's Word to encourage us and serve as role models for developing our own spiritual lives. Joshua, called to march into the Promised Land, was told to be strong and courageous. He couldn't be a champion if he feared the giants in the land.
Moses withstood the pressures of a king, a culture, and a rebellious people that we might see him bring deliverance to a people in bondage. Gideon felt he was the least in Manasseh and the youngest in his father's house. Yet God called him to be a champion. This champion asked for favor and signs to prove God was talking to him (Judges 6). He did not feel like a champion, but he was called to be one.
What other Bible characters can you think of who demonstrate championship in their lives? I'd love to hear how their exploits have helped you press on!
Monday, May 4, 2009
Dreamers
Are you dreaming the impossible dream? When we look at all the dreamers in the Bible, we begin to see a pattern of men and women who had special desires placed in their hearts by God. Sometimes God would have to give them an extra nudge or two, but they were able to press through eventually and fulfill their dreams.
The wise men had a dream of following a star to a king. They finally found Him and were able to fulfill their purpose for the King. They brought Him gifts to use in His journey to Egypt and they honored Him. They were gifts fit for a king.
When we follow our goals are we prepared to bring our gifts to the King? The wise men could have ignored that star. They could have betrayed Jesus and told Herod where He was, but they listened to that inner voice and followed it.
Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit talking to you today. Follow His way and bring Him the gift of yourself. Don't go back to "the Herod's" in your life but follow the Lord.
The wise men had a dream of following a star to a king. They finally found Him and were able to fulfill their purpose for the King. They brought Him gifts to use in His journey to Egypt and they honored Him. They were gifts fit for a king.
When we follow our goals are we prepared to bring our gifts to the King? The wise men could have ignored that star. They could have betrayed Jesus and told Herod where He was, but they listened to that inner voice and followed it.
Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit talking to you today. Follow His way and bring Him the gift of yourself. Don't go back to "the Herod's" in your life but follow the Lord.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Dreaming God's Dreams
We have been talking about dreams...good dreams and bad dreams. In Genesis 28:10 -17 we read about Jacob's dream. He sees a ladder with angels ascending and descending. Jacob has left home and is alone in a field when God visits him.
If you and I evaluated this, we would probably say he didn't deserve an encounter with God. But evidently there was more to Jacob than what we can see. God had a plan for his life and Jacob needed to know the true God, the One his parents and grandparents knew. He could no longer say he didn't know Him.
I believe this encounter began to work adjustments in Jacob's heart. He eventually ended up wrestling with God until his whole nature surrendered to the Lord. Dreams have a way of working inside us to change us. Have you had a dream that has been working in you? Have you changed due to your dream?
I'd love to hear about those dreams!
If you and I evaluated this, we would probably say he didn't deserve an encounter with God. But evidently there was more to Jacob than what we can see. God had a plan for his life and Jacob needed to know the true God, the One his parents and grandparents knew. He could no longer say he didn't know Him.
I believe this encounter began to work adjustments in Jacob's heart. He eventually ended up wrestling with God until his whole nature surrendered to the Lord. Dreams have a way of working inside us to change us. Have you had a dream that has been working in you? Have you changed due to your dream?
I'd love to hear about those dreams!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Keep Dreaming!
Dreaming the impossible dream is a fascinating subject for us all. Almost everyone we read about in Scripture had a dream. Joseph had a dream, Jesus had a dream, and the apostles had dreams.
We also read in Genesis 11 where the people had a dream to build a tower into heaven. To them it was a fantastic dream, but to God it wasn't. We realize from this story about the tower of Babel that the people had the ability to dream a big dream. They didn't lack in the size of their dream nor in the influence they had as a result of their dream. They had all the people involved in their dream.
Interestingly the word for tower is also a word for pride. Just maybe it was their pride that led to their problem!
When it comes to our dreams, it is most important to ask God first.....is this His dream or ours? When the dream is birthed in pride, confusion can follow. It is of utmost importance to dream His dreams and follow His ways.
We also read in Genesis 11 where the people had a dream to build a tower into heaven. To them it was a fantastic dream, but to God it wasn't. We realize from this story about the tower of Babel that the people had the ability to dream a big dream. They didn't lack in the size of their dream nor in the influence they had as a result of their dream. They had all the people involved in their dream.
Interestingly the word for tower is also a word for pride. Just maybe it was their pride that led to their problem!
When it comes to our dreams, it is most important to ask God first.....is this His dream or ours? When the dream is birthed in pride, confusion can follow. It is of utmost importance to dream His dreams and follow His ways.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Dreaming the Impossible Dream
I remember the song "Dream The Impossbile Dream" when I was growing up. It was inspiring and motivating even as a child. Little did I know that one day God would put dreams in my heart that would feel impossible.
How many of you have thought of dreaming the impossible? When my daughter got married in Uganda she was at the "introduction" meeting with all her new Ugandan relatives when a song came on the radio saying, "God will make a way when there seems to be no way."
Here she was in a foreign land marrying an African man she met the year before. When looking at all the obstacles they had to face, they both wondered if there was any way to survive and thrive in this third world country. Yet here was God making a way where there seemed to be no way. They even have gone on to make dreams come true for street children in that part of the world.
How many Bible characters wondered if they could make it, yet God said, "Dream the impossible dream. I will make a way."
That is our word from the Lord today. Dream the Impossible dream. He will make a way where there seems to be no way!
How many of you have thought of dreaming the impossible? When my daughter got married in Uganda she was at the "introduction" meeting with all her new Ugandan relatives when a song came on the radio saying, "God will make a way when there seems to be no way."
Here she was in a foreign land marrying an African man she met the year before. When looking at all the obstacles they had to face, they both wondered if there was any way to survive and thrive in this third world country. Yet here was God making a way where there seemed to be no way. They even have gone on to make dreams come true for street children in that part of the world.
How many Bible characters wondered if they could make it, yet God said, "Dream the impossible dream. I will make a way."
That is our word from the Lord today. Dream the Impossible dream. He will make a way where there seems to be no way!
One Possible Flaw in Women?
Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.
Please take time to let all your women friends and relatives
know just how amazing they are!
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.
Please take time to let all your women friends and relatives
know just how amazing they are!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Memories
Monday we were praying for our up and coming conference on Passion. All of a sudden out of no where I really had a moment of sorrow as my mind went to a long lost friend who died a few years ago. She and I in times past had so much fun getting the themes for the conferences by prayer and seeking God on who to speak and how to make the conference flow well, etc.
As the women prayed at the prayer meeting I was at, I found myself remembering my friend's voice, her mannerisms, her prophetic abilities, and I felt alone, sorrowful, and just a lot of grief. Funny how she died over four years ago and Monday night my mind and heart wanted to cry as I was really missing her. Grief is like that. It can show up when we least expect it. No one else knew my pain at that moment but God.
That night I just had a little visit with the Lord, telling Him how I miss my good friend and our times of loving on Him, sharing insights, and talking about the Holy Spirit. I felt the Lord knew my sadness and could identify with that feeling of loss.
Just as I was deep in my thoughts the leader of prayer meeting called me over to pray for me. Little did she know how deep my grief was at that very moment. The prayer lifted my spirits, encouraged my soul, and pulled me out of that sinking moment.
I wonder if any of you have had a moment like this where you really felt grief come up when you least expected it or just an overwhelming feeling of loss triggered by an event? How did you get through the moment or the circumstance?
I wonder how Jesus felt when He went to the cross all alone after three years of fellowship with His friends? He must have had a few moments of grief and sadness remembering the good times they had together. I wonder what the disciples went through once Jesus was gone and what grief they must have felt.
This Easter season is a good time to remember our friends and encourage those alone. Hopefully you are in good spirits today and not feeling alone. Be assured someone is lifting you up in prayer right now. I am. Please hit the "comment" button at the end of this post and tell me how you got through your personal times of "unexpected grief." God bless, Pastor Sharon
As the women prayed at the prayer meeting I was at, I found myself remembering my friend's voice, her mannerisms, her prophetic abilities, and I felt alone, sorrowful, and just a lot of grief. Funny how she died over four years ago and Monday night my mind and heart wanted to cry as I was really missing her. Grief is like that. It can show up when we least expect it. No one else knew my pain at that moment but God.
That night I just had a little visit with the Lord, telling Him how I miss my good friend and our times of loving on Him, sharing insights, and talking about the Holy Spirit. I felt the Lord knew my sadness and could identify with that feeling of loss.
Just as I was deep in my thoughts the leader of prayer meeting called me over to pray for me. Little did she know how deep my grief was at that very moment. The prayer lifted my spirits, encouraged my soul, and pulled me out of that sinking moment.
I wonder if any of you have had a moment like this where you really felt grief come up when you least expected it or just an overwhelming feeling of loss triggered by an event? How did you get through the moment or the circumstance?
I wonder how Jesus felt when He went to the cross all alone after three years of fellowship with His friends? He must have had a few moments of grief and sadness remembering the good times they had together. I wonder what the disciples went through once Jesus was gone and what grief they must have felt.
This Easter season is a good time to remember our friends and encourage those alone. Hopefully you are in good spirits today and not feeling alone. Be assured someone is lifting you up in prayer right now. I am. Please hit the "comment" button at the end of this post and tell me how you got through your personal times of "unexpected grief." God bless, Pastor Sharon
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