In Matthew 16:19, Jesus said, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

When I was an administrative team member at our church, I had a ring of keys. Over the years that I was on staff, the number of keys grew, enabling me to enter the multiple buildings and offices belonging to our church.

Eventually I had so many keys on the ring, I could not remember what some of the keys were for! I had authority and access that I was ignorant of.

How often do we come up against locked doors of impossibility in our lives, or in the lives of others, but we forget, or are ignorant of, the spiritual authority that we have?

Are we standing helplessly, looking at a problem or an obstacle, when God says, “That is a door—and I have given you the key”?

The Master Key of Jesus’ Name

The Bible teaches us that we have many keys that enable us to partner with God for breakthrough and miracles. These include prayer, praise, and hearing and obeying God in our intimate relationship with Him.

Recently, I had a vision in a meeting of God giving keys to people. But these keys were not held in the hand but in the mouth. The power of God is released when we pray, speak and declare in agreement with God’s purposes. That is why praying in accordance with, or declaring Scripture is so powerful.

When we have an intimate relationship with God, we can hear what His ‘now’ purposes are in any given situation.

‘Father, I have this door, right here. This door that stands against me, shut tight. This locked door that is obstructing my destiny—or the destiny of others. Which key do you want me to use?’

The Name of Jesus is the master key that unlocks doors and enables us to enter the realm of the miraculous.

And yet sometimes we use the Name of Jesus as a kind of an afterthought to our prayers. We make our request and we add, “In Jesus’ Name”

It’s more like rote, like a habit, a formula, an addendum to a request we hope God will answer, or (let’s be honest) the main time some of us use the words, “In Jesus’ Name” is at the close of saying a prayer of thanks at a mealtime.

It is like the key on our key ring that we have forgotten what it is there for.

Rediscover the Power of Jesus’ Name

The context of Jesus’ saying, ‘Ask in My Name’ comes from John chapter 14.  Jesus is saying to His disciples:

‘I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in Me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in My Name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.’

And what do we see from there on… what was the precedent and example in the New Testament of Christian believers using the Name of Jesus?

• In Acts 3:6, Peter cries out to a lame man… ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’ The Bible tells us that as Peter took a hold of the mans hands and lifted him, instantly his feet and ankles became strong.

• In Acts 4:30, the prayer of the church community is ‘Stretch out you hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.’ The Spirit came and shook the place and empowered the believers to speak boldly.

• In Acts 16:18, Paul speaks to the demonic spirit in a woman and says to the spirit, ‘In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!’ And it says, ‘At that moment’ the spirit left her.

This is the Biblical precedent of using Jesus’ Name: the lame walk, the bound are set free, the Spirit empowers God’s people, miracles break loose, and lives are brought into God’s Kingdom!

Yet it is as though many Christians today have forgotten what the key is for.

Every now and then we pull out our key ring and wave the key around. But how often do we stand in front of a locked door of impossibility, or brokenness, or sickness and get the key of the Name of Jesus out and say, ‘Door, open now… in Jesus’ Name!’

The Name of Jesus gives us access to the realm of Heaven, the realm of the miraculous.

When we pray in the Name of Jesus, we are reminded that we do not have authority in our own name, but in His powerful Name—the Name that is above every name!

2 Corinthians 1:19-20 ^‘For the Son of God, Jesus Christ… was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.” For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.’

Related Posts:

Releasing the Resources of Heaven Through Prayer

How To Use Scripture As A Prophetic Declaration

Do you have a truth or scripture about praying in the Name of Jesus, or a testimony or poem you would like to share? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment in the comments box. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

© Helen Calder Enliven Blog – Prophetic Teaching

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church

Did you receive this from a friend? Read more from Enliven Blog or sign to receive our weekly prophetic teaching updates at http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog

Breakthrough! It speaks of overcoming an obstacle that is in our way—or of prevailing over a need, a restriction or an opposing enemy. Breakthrough can also mean an achievement or discovery that leads to significant progress. [1]

When we need a breakthrough in our lives or ministry, we turn to prayer. But what kind of prayer will it take?
The Bible teaches us keys to prayer through the stories of  real people who prayed and how God answered them.

6 Biblical Keys to Breakthrough Prayer

1.  Seek God’s Agenda First

‘This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.’ (1 John 5:14-15)

Daniel was a godly man who read the scriptures—including the prophecies of Jeremiah. He recognised that Jeremiah prophesied about the times that Daniel was now living in and began to seek God for the answers. He knew it was time to birth that prophecy in prayer.

We need to know that we are praying God’s purpose for our lives. This means firstly praying according to God’s revealed will in the Scripture. Upon that foundation, we can also seek an intimate relationship with Father God in which we can hear His purpose for our lives and situation—and pray out of that. [2]

2. Don’t Settle for Second Best

Hannah was childless, and it grieved her. Wanting to reassure her, Hannah’s husband offered his love and personal gifts, thinking these could please her. But Hannah would only be satisfied with one thing—a baby. As a result of Hannah’s prayer, a future prophet and priest was born. Samuel would bring the nation back to God. (1 Sam 1)

When God has placed something on our hearts, then like Hannah we will be tempted to settle for the ‘status quo’ or second best. But that is the very time to passionately press in to God for the answer.

3. Pray from the Heart

Hannah cried a wordless prayer of deep groaning—and God answered it. (1 Sam 1:12-16, Rom 8:26-27)) Nehemiah shot up a prayer whilst he was going about his daily occupation. (Neh 2:1-5) These seemingly simple prayers, carried from the heart, changed nations.

There are no right and wrong ways to pray. Just real prayers.

It’s time to put aside formulas, and not to be intimidated by someone else’s style and eloquence. The prayers that God answers are real prayers from the heart, regardless of time, place or technique.

4. Pray with Praise and Thanksgiving

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Phil 4:6)

Paul and Silas were in a difficult situation. God called them to evangelise a city, but they were stuck in a dungeon, held in stocks. As they prayed in the night and offered up hymns of praise, God sent an earthquake to open the prison doors. (Acts 16:22-29)

When used in addition to prayer, praise is a powerful cutting-edge weapon for breakthrough. (Ps 149:6-9)

5. Don’t Give Up

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. (Luke 18:1)

Daniel prayed and fasted for 21 days before an answer came. An angel appeared who had been battling in the heavenlies for the entire time Daniel had been in prayer. Daniel’s persistent prayers provided fuel for what God was doing on his behalf. (Dan 10)

Prayer is not a single event, but a process. Whilst continuing in prayer, we are partnering with God as Heaven’s resources, including angels, are being released that are working towards God’s answer.
Don’t give up too soon!

6. Find Others who will Agree with You

Jesus said, “…if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matt 18:19-20)

Esther is known as a woman whose courage saved a nation. However, prior to approaching the King, Esther called on Mordecai, all the Jews of the city, and her own attendants, to fast before God for 3 days. Esther knew that the real power lay in God answering the prayer of those who had joined her in the fast. (Esther 4:16)

When in need of a breakthrough, find others who will join you in prayer, because there is multiplied power in agreement.

Notes:

[1] http://www.thefreedictionary.com/breakthrough

[2] For issues of guidance, see Personal Guidance for the Important Decisions of Life

Related Posts:

Is it Time to Birth your Prophetic Word in Prayer?

Need a Breakthrough? Uncover the Mysteries of Heaven

Release the Resources of Heaven Through Prayer

Your Prophetic Word and Spiritual Warfare

Do you have a prayer request you would like our team to agree with you on? Do you have a story to tell about breakthrough prayer, or a scripture or poem to share? Leave a comment in the comments box. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

Breakthrough Night in Melbourne, Australia—All Welcome

Join us for a night of breakthrough prayer and prophetic worship. David McCracken Ministries’ Breakthrough Nights feature a faith-building word from David McCracken, along with worship led by Steve McCracken and a time of corporate prayer with our team for your personal breakthrough.

Tuesday March 19, 7.30pm
South Eastern Christian Centre, 2-8 Gleneagles Drive, Endeavour Hills (Mel Ref. 91 E2).
For more information, see our Breakthrough Night page or contact us.

© Helen Calder Enliven Blog – Prophetic Teaching

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church

Did you receive this from a friend? Read more from Enliven Blog or sign to receive our weekly prophetic teaching updates at http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog

My earliest job involved assisting at a Christian bookstore during a school holiday break. Eagerly, I spent the first of my income on a music album called ‘No Compromise,’ by prophetic singer/songwriter Keith Green. [1]

In addition to Keith Green’s powerful songs, the artwork on that album cover remains etched into my memory to this day.

Set in ancient times, it depicts one man standing whilst people all around him bow down to a passing official.

A soldier following the official is pointing at the upright man in fury.

The picture is from the story of Esther in the Bible, and the man’s name is Mordecai. [2]

What It Takes To Be An Overcomer

The story of Mordecai reminds us that no matter our background, our circumstances, or the power of the enemy against us, we will overcome when we give the ultimate allegiance to God in our lives. This is what it takes:

The Odds are Stacked Against You

Mordecai came from humble beginnings, being the son of Jewish exiles, of the tribe of Benjamin, in ancient Persia.

His enemy Haman—the official infuriated by Mordecai’s refusal to bow down to him—had power, wealth, the ear of the King of Persia, and the ability to issue commands in the king’s name.

There was no earthly way that Mordecai could overcome such a powerful foe.

When God calls you to be an overcomer, you can be certain that the odds will be stacked against you.
In the face of seeming impossibility, when you experience breakthrough, He will receive the glory.

The Presence of a Powerful Enemy

Mordecai’s allegiance to God and his Jewish faith was likely to be the reason why he risked his life by going against the king’s edict and refusing to bow down to Haman.

This uncompromising stand inflamed Haman’s hatred, not only against Mordecai, but also against those that Mordecai represented.

Not content with destroying Mordecai alone, Haman issued an edict in the king’s name ordering the annihilation of the Jews throughout Persia.

What enemy are you facing at this time? The presence of a powerful enemy is certain proof that you are destined to be an overcomer.

You have a Sovereign God

With overwhelming odds set against him, Mordecai had God on his side—and we know that one man or woman with God is a majority.

Prior to the events that had set Haman on his path of destruction, the God of the Jews had already set His plan in motion to save Mordecai and his people.

From humble beginnings, Mordecai would rise up with Esther to help deliver the Jews from annihilation, and become the second most powerful man in the kingdom of Persia.

Traits of an Overcomer

What else can we learn from Mordecai as we ask, ‘What does it take to be an overcomer?’

1. Courage

Mordecai feared God and not man. By refusing to pay homage to Haman, he willingly risked his life to uphold his faith and his principles.

Later, Mordecai could call his cousin Esther to risk her own life, because as a leader he already practiced and exemplified great courage.

It took Esther great courage to enter the King’s presence without being summoned. This disobedience of the law could have cost her life, but instead, she received favour, because God was with her.

It takes great courage to face your enemy and refuse to bow down to intimidation. Allow your reverence and love for God to be greatest—and act upon that.

2. Loyalty

Mordecai not only demonstrated loyalty to God and his Jewish heritage, he was also loyal to key people in his life.

Esther was not his daughter, but his cousin, given to his care at the death of his aunt and uncle. When she married the King, Mordecai could have released her. But instead, he still kept in close touch with her—providing wisdom, care and spiritual oversight.

Mordecai was also loyal to God’s chosen leader of that time, the King of Persia. When he heard of a plot against the King’s life, Mordecai informed the King of it via Esther.

Mordecai’s loyalty to the king was a factor in Haman’s downfall and proved to the King that Mordecai would be trustworthy when his time of promotion came.

Are we fostering the value of loyalty in our lives—to the people God has placed within our care or oversight, and to the leaders God has given to us? It will make the difference when victory is needed.

3. Proactive in Spite of Pain

When Mordecai heard the news of the edict against the Jews, he was deeply grieved. The Bible tells us that he went out into the city in sackcloth and ashes and with loud crying.

But he didn’t allow the pain of the terrible news to immobilise him. Instead, he worked on a plan with Esther to make known the truth to the King.

At his darkest hour, Mordecai’s spoke some of the Bible’s most compelling words to Esther:

“…who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)

In times of pain, we do not need to be disabled by negative emotion. Like Mordecai, we can use that distress to spur us forward in God’s purposes with renewed determination: God’s purpose in our lives and that of others will be accomplished!

4. Unity and Teamwork

Mordecai and Esther worked as a team to bring down the plans of the enemy Haman. Mordecai provided oversight, instruction and wisdom to Esther and she was able to expose the enemy’s plans to the attention of the king.

Later, Esther brought Mordecai before the king and they set in motion an edict that would overturn Haman’s plans and bring victory to God’s people.

Through unity, a nation was saved, an enemy destroyed and God’s plans were brought to fruition.

Unity with those God has called you to partner with is a powerful force in God’s Kingdom.

Breakthrough: The Overcomer’s Outcome

The people who know their God shall be strong and carry out great exploits (Daniel 11:32)

As a result of Mordecai’s stand, together with Esther, the plot to annihilate the Jews was overturned, their enemies were destroyed, and the mourning of the people was turned to great rejoicing.

Mordecai was promoted to being Prime Minister in Haman’s place—second in power to the King of Persia himself.

When he left the presence of the king, Mordecai was crowned, clothed in royal garments, and in possession of the king’s signet ring—symbols of authority and power.

When you overcome your powerful enemy, you emerge with greater experience and insight of the authority God has already given to you as His son and daughter.

Do you have any experiences or questions to share on this topic, or difficulties you are facing that you would like us to agree with you in prayer for? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment in the comments box below. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

Notes:

[1] One of the songs off this album, ‘Make My Life A Prayer To You,’ written by Keith’s wife Melody Green, profoundly impacted me and became my life’s theme. You can listen to the original recording here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EDGmeP1aA4&feature=related

[2] Read the full story of Esther and Mordecai in the book of Esther in the Bible.

Some mysterious aspects of the story of Mordecai fascinated me as I researched for this article.

• Why did he spend so much time at the King’s Gate? Was it solely because of his concern for Esther?
• The King’s Gate was where important legal and business transactions were carried out.
• It is possible that Mordecai worked as a minor official there. (Esther 3:2)
• This would have been practical preparation for the future responsibilities that he would have as the nation’s next Prime Minister.

Enjoy the read!

© Helen Calder 2011 Enliven Blog – Prophetic Teaching

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church

tran·si·tion /tran’ziSHen/
Noun: The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.

Two years ago, I wrote my first post and Enliven Blog was born.

At the time, I was in transition, slowly emerging from burnout, without any idea of what lay ahead.[1]

I did not know then, that within six months The Hunk and I would have a fresh encounter with the Holy Spirit and be launched into a year of supernatural intervention.

I did not know that within 18 months, I would be joining the ministry team at David McCracken Ministries.

I did not know that within two years, Enliven Blog would reach thousands of people all around the world and have hundreds of subscribers.

With my limited vision, all I knew to do was to take the next small step.

The Trial of Transition

All of us experience transition with regard to the promises and purpose of God for our lives. In fact, it is likely that you will be in transition right now in some part of your life, big or small.

I used to have this idea that transition was like a waiting room—you stay in there for a while, and then you are released.

But many times, transition is like a roller-coaster. Just when you think you are on the way up, down you go again!

It is reassuring when we see how many people in the Bible also experienced times of transition. A few examples of these are:

• David in the wilderness on the run from Saul (1 Sam 21-31)
• Esther’s 12 months of preparation before she was brought before the king (Esther 2:12)
• Elijah at the brook Cherith (1 Kings 17:3-7)
• Paul in Tarsus (Acts 9:30, 11:25)

When we read their stories, we can see how they responded and be encouraged by God’s faithfulness in bringing them through to the fulfillment of His purpose for their lives.

Ruth’s Response to Transition

Ruth left her family and culture behind her in Moab to follow her mother-in-law Naomi to Bethlehem, Naomi’s hometown, following the death of their husbands.

In one of the Bible’s most moving speeches, Ruth pledged to follow Naomi and come under the protection of the God of Israel. (Ruth 1:16-17)

But transition did not stop with their arrival in Bethlehem.

Ruth is known as ‘the foreigner,’ or ‘the Moabitess.’ And Naomi seems a stranger to her own people. Ruth is probably experiencing culture shock. They have no personal resources, only faith in God and the hope of a better life.

Ruth did not know then, that she would marry Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband and that the family’s inheritance would be recovered.

She did not know that she would bear a baby boy and lay him in Naomi’s arms.

And she did not know that her son would be the great-grandfather of a King—or that one of her descendants would be the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

All she knew to do was to take the next small step.

The Next Small Step

The greatest temptation during a season of transition is to become discouraged and give up. Sometimes, this is a result of spiritual warfare—the enemy wants us to become stuck in the place of transition. [2] God’s purpose for our lives is being contended for.

It is vital that we keep moving forward.

And Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, “Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor.” Ruth 2:

Ruth’s response to the situation is proactive

• She is not sitting at home waiting for spiritual guidance or provision to come to her
• She is not relying on her feelings
• She is serving Naomi
• She is being faithful
• She is simply doing what she knows to do, step by step, starting with the small things.

In times of transition, I cannot see the future. But as I trust God, I can take the next small step, and I can find the strength for one small step at a time.

Following Biblical Principles

Sometimes when we are in transition, it is very difficult to see the road ahead. But we have God’s Word; Biblical principles to guide us.

We see that Ruth had not only converted with her mouth to faith in God, but also with her heart.

In the book of Leviticus, 19:9-10, God makes provision for the poor and the foreigners in the land of Israel. He commands those who are harvesting their fields to deliberately leave leftovers around the edges of the fields to provide for those who have no means to look after themselves. It is called gleaning.

And this is what Ruth does. She is starting to move into God’s provision, and as she does so God is about to break things loose on her behalf.

Divine Positioning

As someone has said, we need to comprehend what the NTS is—the next tiny step—and do that.

As we do the next thing, take the next tiny step, walking and faith, God and directs our steps and we find ourselves landing on His space of grace for us.

Divine Appointments and Holy Spirit Set-ups

Naomi said to [Ruth], “Go ahead, my daughter.” So she went out and began to glean in the fields behind the harvesters. As it turned out, she found herself working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelech. (Ruth 2:2-3)

I love the wording here—‘as it turned out,’ or in another translation, ‘as it happened.’

The Hunk and I have a name for these seeming coincidences, which are God-incidences, we call them ‘Holy Spirit setups.’

We see that God is guiding Ruth and Naomi’s steps.

So, Ruth happened to be gleaning barley in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi, who happened to be, in the laws of Israel, a ‘Kinsman Redeemer,’ having the ability to take Ruth as his wife and restore Naomi’s family line and inheritance.

If Ruth had not been faithfully following God’s word and provision in the little things, she would not have been positioned for the miracle.

Our response to transition determines our destiny

Notes:

[1] I have written a number of posts on my journey through burnout. Here are a few of them:

Spiritual Renewal: How To Receive An Impartation Of The Holy Spirit

When You Hit A Wall In Your Ministry

No Longer An Orphan: How I Discovered The Father’s Love

[2] See also the following post:

Prophetic People And Spiritual Warfare

Do you have any experiences or questions to share on this topic? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment in the comments box below. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

© Helen Calder 2011 Enliven Blog

On team with David McCracken Ministries: Prophetic Ministry That Empowers The Church

Last week I posted my 100^th blog article since starting the Enliven Blog in July 2009!

As I reflect back on the journey, one blog post stands out above all others in terms of the impact it had on me personally at the time of release.

That post was, ‘How Your Prophetic Song Can Release The Power Of God.’

In it I wrote,
‘It has been said that ‘desperate times call for desperate measures.’ In God’s Kingdom, however, desperate times call for extraordinary measures.’

The Crisis

What I did not share was that The Hunk and I were facing our own desperate times—a financial crisis.

I had been without paid work for nearly a year, after transferring from a paid role to a volunteer one at our church. Repeated attempts to find a part time job had been unsuccessful. In the meantime, my husband had been valiantly working to support our household on his sole income.

Every week we continued to go backwards, until we could go no further—we did not have enough money for our next house payment. Unless a miracle occurred, we faced losing our home and a great deal more.

In spite of this crisis, our faith remained surprisingly buoyant. We recalled previous times that we had come to the end of our own resources and watched as our Heavenly Father had brought miraculous intervention.

A Prophetic Song of Praise

At this time, I was asked to run a workshop for our worship team on ‘Prophetic Song.’ During the training session, I shared Biblical examples of how prophetic song can be pivotal to breakthrough.

Something happened in my heart as I joined with our team in prophetic worship that Thursday night. I knew that God was calling me to spend specific time praising Him for breakthrough.

My husband was away over the next few days training for a new job. Being a commission-only role, with no set salary, we had no idea how his new job would work out for us financially.

The Hunk’s absence that weekend gave me the time I needed to focus on God. I put together a collection of praise songs on CD. I sat at our keyboard. I spent hours praising my Father, singing songs that expressed faith and gratitude for His love, provision, help and power.

I also wrote what I was learning about the power of prophetic song in the blog post, ‘How Your Prophetic Song Can Release The Power Of God.’ The following Tuesday evening I published it online.

Breakthrough Begins

Wednesday morning following the release of the blog post, I had a vivid dream before waking.

I received a phone call from a minister overseas. He expressed thanks to me for publishing the post about prophetic song and shared that it was of great significance.

As our conversation closed, I asked him, ‘Where are you from?’ He replied clearly, ‘Einstein.’

I woke up aware that I had just received a dream from God. The word ‘Einstein’ seemed to have particular importance, but what did it mean? I wondered if I should look it up on the Internet to find out.

I went to our computer and noticed that a close friend who was one of my prayer leaders had just sent an email.

In the email, she mentioned some signs that spiritual warfare was taking place in her world and closed by saying,

‘You don’t have to be Einstein (to figure out what is going on).’

When I read the word ‘Einstein’ I was electrified. That morning, inspired by an urgency of the Spirit, I hurried to our church to be early for the weekly staff meeting.

As I rushed into our church carpark, our pastor was outside having a conversation when he saw me and called me aside. He shared that an opening for a part time paid administrative role had come up and invited me to take the job.

I now had paid work.

In the meantime, the Hunk was starting his new job and that very day won the first of two prizes of petrol vouchers—a welcome supply to help meet our immediate needs.

Several days later we received a large gift to help towards some family expenses.

And a day after that someone pressed an envelope into my hands at church, saying God had instructed her to give it to us. It was filled with cash.

It was also proving obvious that income from my husband’s new line of work would far exceed what he had earned in his previous role.

Within a week our situation had turned completely around and we were in awe at the love and power of God.

The Power of A Prophetic Song of Praise

A song of praise is a powerful prophetic tool that

• Celebrates victory in the face of apparent defeat.
• Declares God’s ability in the circumstance of your inability
• Thanks God for answers that have not yet been sighted

It is prophetic because it gives voice to the word that God has spoken to you, concerning His outcome for your circumstances and life.

Intimacy and Obedience

I hesitate to share a testimony like I the one I have above, because there is always a danger that people will imitate a method in order to gain a result.

You see it is not about a method. It is not even about a principle (although the principle of prophetic praise is powerful).

It is about relationship with God and obedience to His word.

In 2 Chron 20, King Jehoshaphat responded in faith to a prophetic word that God would route the powerful armies that were coming against the nation of Judah.

Jehoshaphat sent out musicians and singers at the head of his army to praise God. As they began to sing and praise, the enemy armies turned on each other. The prophecy—that God would defeat the enemy without Judah having to fight—was fulfilled.

However, this was the only time in the Bible a battle was won in this precise way.

The key to breakthrough is not about a method, it is intimacy with God. And out of that intimacy, let the faith rise, let the praises start to flow.

If my story inspires you, I encourage you to spend time with God. Ask your Heavenly Father how you should respond in your particular situation.

And then, do whatever He tells you. (John 2:5)

Notes:

For teaching on the topic of prophetic song, I encourage you to view the following blog post:

How Your Prophetic Song Can Release The Power Of God

To leave a note or share your own story, leave a comment at the bottom of this post. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

© Helen Calder 2011 Enliven Blog http://propheticpeople.com/

Now on team with David McCracken Ministries

‘Can we remain confident in God’s love and His purpose for our lives when crisis looms or disaster strikes?’

The Day David Lost Everything

(1 Sam 30)
If anyone ever had cause to believe that God had abandoned him during a time of crisis, it was David.

David returned with his men to their hometown Ziklag, to find it had been attacked, looted and burned by Amalekite raiders. Their wives, children and possessions had been captured and taken away by their enemy. (1 Sam 30:3)

The Bible tells us that David and his men cried aloud until they had no more strength to weep.

And then, seeking a place to lay blame as grief turned to rage over the loss of their families, David’s men turned on him. They began to talk of stoning him in retaliation.

It had to have been one of the worst days in David’s life.

These dire circumstances had arisen from a leadership decision that David had made, which resulted in his men being away from their families during the time of attack. It appeared that he had failed to protect his own.

He could have given up.

But instead, David’s response resulted in breakthrough—the recovery of their families and possessions and the destruction of their enemies. It also helped position David for his ascent to the throne of Israel.

How did this incredible turn-about in circumstances happen? And what can we learn from this Bible account when faced with our own crises?

4 Things you can do in Times of Crisis

1. Don’t Cover up the Pain.

‘All my longings lie open before you, O Lord; my sighing is not hidden from you.’ Ps 38:9

David wept—he expressed his grief and anguish and let it all out.

One of the things we learn from David’s psalms is that we can be completely honest before God. The psalms teach us that we can ask God the hard questions, cry out our pain, and even express our doubts and rage.

But the Psalms do not stop there, and neither did David at this time.

2. Choose to Trust in God and Find Strength in Him

At this lowest point, we are told that David ‘found strength in the Lord His God.’ (1 Sam 30:6)

David held to the truth that God was still present with Him—that he had not been abandoned.

When we are faced with trials, danger, natural disasters or even spiritual warfare, God is with us. He is our Father. When we have no strength left of our own—He is our source of strength.

This is the ultimate test of trust.

David was overcome with grief, but instead of allowing his feelings to dictate his response, he chose at that time to turn to God.

Trust is not a feeling; it is not something that we need to look within ourselves to supply.

Trust is based on the sure knowledge that God is completely trustworthy.

David wrote in the Psalms, ‘The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.’ (Ps 18:2)

3. Ask God Questions and Find out what He is Saying

David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?” “Pursue them,” he answered. “You will certainly overtake them and succeed in the rescue.” (1 Sam 30:8)

Does evidence seem to point to God having abandoned you? To His destiny for your life not being fulfilled? Are people around you, like David’s men, expressing a negative opinion?

David did not respond to the talk of his men; he did not respond to his feelings or the circumstances he was presented with. He responded to the word of God.

When faced with a crisis, we can ask

• What is the truth in God’s Word—the Bible—that I need to believe about who I am, and about who God to me right at this time?

The next question is

• Father, what is Your specific word to me right now?

Through Jesus, we have a personal relationship with God and He wants to speak with us.

Take time to listen. [1]

4. Remember who you are and Whose you are—and Respond Accordingly

During a time of crisis, it is time to dig deep and to rediscover the foundations of our own history with God.

It is time to remember the call, the gifts, and the grace on our lives.

We know that David did that, because his response to this trial came out of the gift and anointing God had given to him from the very beginning.

We see that he responded firstly as a worshipper, then as a leader, and then as a warrior.

Perhaps he remembered protecting his sheep from the lion and the bear. Maybe he recalled slaying Goliath with a stone and the word of God—or the times God had rescued him from Saul and his armies.

David’s own history told him that even though the odds against him were great, they were no match for God and His word.

David took 600 men with him to pursue the enemy. When he had to leave 200 behind who were too exhausted to continue, the odds against him increased yet again.

But they not only succeeded in overcoming the enemy, they regained their families and possessions and a great deal more—all the plunder the Amalekites had captured from other places.

When crisis hits, take time to reflect on what God has done for you and through you in the past. He is faithful.

Your Story is not Finished yet

This crisis not only resulted in a victorious outcome, it came just prior to the fulfilment of the destiny on David’s life.

Ziklag was burned and their homes destroyed. This was a devastating event. However David asked God for guidance and was later led to take his men and their families and settle in the city of Hebron.

It was in Hebron that David would be anointed King of Judah, and later of Israel (2 Sam 2:4, 5:3)

Choose God, choose His Word, and you will find that the pathway through the crisis you are currently facing leads to your destiny.

There is another chapter ahead of you.

When problems or disasters take place—as the book of Job reminds us (Job 42:10)—life does not end there. Sometimes, it begins.

Notes:

[1] I have found that journaling is always a great tool to record conversations with God, and this is particularly true in times of testing. To find out more about journaling, these posts may be helpful:

When Your Devotional Life Is Dry: How To Fall In Love With The Bible Again

Activate Your Prophetic Gift Through Prayer Journaling

Do you have any ideas or experiences to share on this topic? I would love to hear from you. Leave a note in the comments box below. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

© Helen Calder 2011   Enliven Blog  http://propheticpeople.com/

Now on team with David McCracken Ministries

Over the last couple of weeks I have been praying about a word of encouragement for my readers.

As I have done so, I have been continually drawn back to the words:

‘Year Of Visitation.’

At first, I hesitated. The words, ‘Year of Visitation’ were already familiar to me.

You see, this past year so many extraordinary things had taken place for The Hunk and me, that as the year was drawing to a close, I dubbed 2010, ‘Year Of Visitation.’

To be honest, this was a bit scary. How do you follow up a year like we have had? I found myself being lured back into an ‘orphan mindset.’ [1] I was being tempted to fear that in 2011 the Presence and work of God in our lives would wane.

Thankfully, as I have prayed for you, the Spirit has also lovingly addressed and corrected my own thinking.

Divine visitation should not be the exception; instead, it should be our expectation as we approach the New Year.

You and I can have a ‘Year Of Visitation’ in 2011 and beyond. The key lies in understanding what that means, and positioning for it in faith.

Visitation from God is a Biblical Concept

When God visits, supernatural breakthroughs occur. Prophetic words are fulfilled, seasons are shifted and new things are brought to birth [2]. Jesus gets the glory.

So—what does it mean, Biblically, to have a season of visitation from God? And how can we position ourselves for it?

Following are 6 of the times that the Bible tells us God visited His people.

As you read these accounts, there may be one or two that particularly resonate with you. If that happens, allow the Spirit of God to ignite faith in your heart, that His Word will be fulfilled in your life in the coming year.

1. Fulfilment of Prophecy & Removal of Barrenness

‘And the LORD visited Sarah as He had said, and the LORD did for Sarah as He had spoken.’ (Gen 21:1) [3]

A visitation of God broke the long season of barrenness in Sarah’s life, resulting in fulfilment of prophecy and the birth of Isaac, whose name meant ‘laughter.’

2. Recognising God Has Seen our Pain and Come to Act on Behalf of His People

‘When they heard that the LORD had visited the children of Israel and that He had looked on their affliction, then they bowed their heads and worshiped.’ Ex 4:31

A visitation of God broke the long season of Israel’s bondage in Egypt. They realised God had not left them alone in their suffering, but was intimately concerned for them. His power was about to be revealed.

3. Divine Help And Provision

‘ Then [Naomi] arose with her daughters-in-law that she might return from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the country of Moab that the LORD had visited His people by giving them bread.’ (Ruth 1:6)

A visitation of God broke a long season of famine in Bethlehem, Judah.

The rumour of God’s goodness reached Naomi, who was estranged and widowed in the country of Moab. God’s visitation impacted her personally as her inheritance and family line was restored.

4. Restoration of Inheritance and Homecoming

‘For thus says the LORD: After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place.’ (Jer 29:10)

A visitation of God broke the long season of Judah’s exile, and they returned to Jerusalem at His appointed time.

5. The Ultimate Visitation—Jesus

“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited and redeemed His people…the Dayspring from on high has visited us” (Luke 1:68,78)

In the New Testament, Zacharias understood that the ultimate visitation of God to His people was fulfilled in the birth of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

6. Outpourings of the Holy Spirit

“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord…” (Acts 3:19)

From the day of Pentecost in Acts 2 and throughout church history, we understand visitations of the Holy Spirit to be times of outpouring, bringing refreshing and empowering to God’s people.

3 Ways To Position For Divine Visitation

When God moves on our behalf, or in the lives of others around us, it is not because we deserve it—it is on the basis of Jesus’ shed blood, and the Father’s favour and mercy.

We cannot earn His visitation—however, we can position ourselves to enter into what the Father wants to do.

As you will see, the key to 2011 being a ‘Year Of Visitation’ lies in our relationship with God.

1. Understand God’s Timing

The primary key to experiencing Divine visitation lies in understanding the timing of God for our lives.

In each of the above situations in scripture, it was God’s time to act. For example:

• Sarah’s pregnancy with Isaac
• The four hundred years in Egypt come to its conclusion
• The seventy years in Babylon completed
• The birth of Jesus

You may know that there are two Greek words for time in the New Testament: The first is ‘chronos.’ This refers to ‘clock time’ or ‘calendar time.’ It is the word used for general time. [4]
The second Greek word for time is ‘kairos.’ Kairos means ‘due time, a fixed time, a season, or an OPPORTUNE time.’

A pregnancy is a great example of the two types of time. Approximately 9 months of ‘chronos’ time pass. But the moment comes when it is time to give birth. That moment is ‘kairos’—the due time.

God always desires to bring people closer to Himself, to fill us with His Spirit, to act on our behalf.

But we also need to see as Jesus did, what the Father is doing ‘now.’ (John 5:19)

Jesus always walked in the kairos time of God—and we can too.

Here are some arenas you might like to seek God for His kairos timing both now and throughout the coming year.

Ask, “Father, what are You doing in these areas?”

• A fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit
• An area of your life that needs breakthrough
• Family members and relationships
• Non-Christians that are around your life
• A shift of season

Prayer journaling is a great way to communicate with Him and record His response. [5]

2. Pray in the Season of Visitation

‘You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.’ (Jer 29:13)

When God spoke these words to Judah, He was saying, in effect, ‘When the kairos time comes for Me to deliver you, you will seek Me—and I will answer and deliver you.’ (see Jer 29:10-14)

The prophet Zechariah put this well when he said,

‘Ask the LORD for rain in the time of the latter rain.’ Zech 10:1

The prophet was saying, when it’s God’s kairos time, pray!

When we pray, we acknowledge that we cannot fulfil God’s plan through our own efforts. We need His help.

When that prayer is answered, Jesus gets the credit for what takes place.

3. Participate With God Through Acts of Obedience

When we have prayed, it is time look for ways to cooperate with the Holy Spirit. We want to participate with God in His work.

If God asks us to do something specific, an act of obedience can bring a powerful breakthrough.

Goliath was killed by the word of the Lord AND by a stone from David’s sling (1 Samuel 17). God provided food for a widow and her son, but first, she had to give away the last of what she had to Elijah (1 Kings 17:7-16).

Sometimes, however, it is not about doing anything except simply receiving—equally an act of obedience.

There are times to contend, and there are also times to just open our hands and say, ‘Thank you Lord.’

For we are His sons and daughters, and what we receive from Him, we receive by inheritance.

Through our relationship with God, we can experience the ongoing visitation of God in our lives—to move from visitation to habitation.

This is the desire of my heart. Is it yours?

Do you have any thoughts or experiences to share on this topic? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment in the space below. If the comments box is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

Notes and Related Posts:

[1] An orphan mindset is ‘Fatherless thinking.’ I share about this in the following post:

Breaking Free From An Orphan Mindset

[2] Our friend Steve McCracken from David McCracken Ministries has said: “The two phrases I am feeling for 2011 are a year of achievement and a
year of new things. I believe it is to be a year of firsts.”

[3] These scriptures are all quoted in the New King James Version (NKJV)

[4] VINE, M.A. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words.  1985. Virginia: MacDonald.

An example of ‘chronos’ is in Matt 2:7. ‘Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time (chronos) the star had appeared.’

An example of ‘kairos’ is in Gal 6:9. ‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time (kairos) we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.’ (See also 2 Cor 6:1-2)

[5] For an explanation and examples of prayer journaling, see the following post:

Activate Your Prophetic Gift Through Prayer Journaling

See also:
Prophetic Insight: Look Out, The Rain Is Coming!

© Helen Calder 2011    Enliven Publishing

http://enlivenpublishing.com/blog/

Now on team with David McCracken Ministries

The Orphan Mindset

In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 1:5

A story is frequently told of a baby eagle that fell out of its nest and became separated from its family.

A mother chicken took pity on the apparently orphaned eagle and raised the baby as her own.

As it grew, the young eagle pecked and shuffled along the ground along with its chicken siblings, having never learned that life could be any different.

One day it looked up at an eagle soaring high in the sky and marvelled…

As sons and daughters of a living God we should bear the family likeness and carry out the family business.

But we will never fulfil our potential or live a supernatural Christian life while we are living with an orphan mindset.

Until we do, we will live like the eagle in the story, believing that we are subject to limitations that do not exist.

We need to fully comprehend the Family that we belong to.

Recently I wrote a post entitled, ‘No Longer An Orphan: How I Discovered The Father’s Love.’

I have come to realise that it is possible to experience significant healing in this area, and yet still be restricted by orphan (Fatherless) thinking.

I can pay mental assent to the truth of my acceptance as a child of my Heavenly Father, and yet my feelings and responses sometimes reveal a deep-set belief that God has left me to live life alone and apart from Him.

Like other ‘strongholds’ in our minds [1], this way of thinking needs to be recognised and expelled from our lives and replaced with the truth of God’s Word.

So how do we recognise and deal with an orphan mindset?

In previous posts I have discussed the orphan spirit as it relates to our relationship with God as Father.Here are two further areas that I have been challenged over recently:

Signs of an Orphan Mindset

1. We have an orphan mindset when contemplating what God has called us to do continually makes us feel inadequate or afraid.

Jesus said,

I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth… I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. (John 14:16,18)

An important aspect of ‘comprehending the Family that we belong to’ is being aware of the relationship of the Holy Spirit to us.

The reality is that we will never be or do what Father has called us to, without the Presence and enabling power of the Holy Spirit.

So why do we often feel alone?

Here are two questions to consider:

• How would my life be different if I brought the reality of the Holy Spirit’s presence into the picture of my life?
• How could I live if I took into account, not my own inability, but His ability, for every moment, every challenge, both present and future?

2. We have an orphan mindset when we believe that it is impossible to follow in Jesus’ steps.

Like the young eagle gazing at the eagle soaring in the sky, I look at the life of Jesus presented in the Gospels and wonder.

Can I really aspire to be like Him?

I know I am called to be a disciple—follower—of Jesus, my life a reflection of His.

Somehow, it is much easier to relate to the unlikely heroes of Scripture—those flawed and sinful people that God used to change history—than to Jesus.

And yet, Jesus’ life is the picture of what my life can look like.

The Apostle Paul puts it this way in Romans 8:29:

‘For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.’

Or as Eugene H. Peterson puts it in ‘The Message,’
“We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in [Jesus]”(Rom 8:29)

As children of God, we are created in His image and share His family likeness—His DNA. The same Holy Spirit that anointed Jesus also lives in us.

We are called to be Jesus disciples—but orphan thinking will cause us to be His followers in name only.

To be a disciple of Jesus requires us to actually live with and to learn from Him in the same way that His disciples did in the Gospels.

This comes not only from Bible study, but also by living life with Him as a present and continual experience.

An orphan mindset and belief system will act as a veil that will keep us from encountering Jesus and having a face-to-face relationship with him.

Prayer to be Released from the Orphan Mindset

Perhaps you can identify with some of the struggles I have shared above. You might like to join me in this prayer:

Father, I am sorry for the times that I do not recognise and embrace the truth of my relationship to You—that I am your fully loved and fully accepted child.

I repent of the times I feel and act as though I am an orphan alone, when Jesus has paid the highest price of His life that I might be a member of your family.

I renounce [refuse to have any longer] the orphan mindset, with all of its lies, rejection and unbelief, especially… [include anything specific God has shown you]

I ask that by Your Spirit you will continue to expose and deal with any residue of orphan thinking in my life.

Thank You for the gift of new life and for receiving me into Your Family. I choose to believe the truth of who I am in relationship to You and who You are in relationship to me… [include any relevant scripture references here]

In Jesus’ Name.

[1] A stronghold is a belief system that is contrary to what the Bible teaches. For more information see 2 Corinthians 10:3-6

Related posts:

No Longer An Orphan: How I Discovered The Father’s Love

4 Symptoms of the Orphan Spirit in Church Life

How Your Perspective Can Impact Your Destiny

1 Father, 2 Sons, 3 Positions: Which Describes You?

© Helen Calder   2010  Enliven Publishing

Now on team with David McCracken Ministries

Do you have any thoughts or experiences to share on the topic of an orphan mindset? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment in the box below. If the comments area is not visible, click on this link and scroll down.

My standard response to any need for information is, ‘Let’s Google it.’ It seems that any knowledge on earth is now literally available at our fingertips.

Recently, I have Googled to find information on such mysteries as whether my computer had signs of a Trojan virus (yes, and remedial software was suggested), and why my daughter’s cockatiel instantly shed a batch of feathers when unexpectedly knocked (a reflex action of self defence).

But there are some problems and decisions in life for which there are no earthly solutions:

• When in need of provision
• At a crossroad facing life-changing decisions
• When a loved one is wandering far from God
• When no medical answers exist for a physical, mental or emotional health issue

These kinds of situations prompt us to turn to our heavenly Father for the intervention that only He can bring.

The Knowledge That Counts

The key to this kind of miraculous breakthrough, according to James, is effective prayer (James 5:16-18).

The key to effective prayer, according to John, is to pray according to God’s will (1 John 5:14-15).

In order to pray according to God’s will, we need to know the Father’s heart and intent (Matt 6:10).

When it really comes down to it, and we are faced with the critical issues of life, it is not earthly knowledge that counts—but understanding God’s purposes for our situation.

This is the power of prophetic prayer.

What is Prophetic Prayer?

Prophetic prayer is when we pray using information that has been supernaturally revealed to us by the Holy Spirit.

We call this supernatural knowledge revelation.

Beyond The Curtain

It is as though there is a curtain between the natural realm and the realm of heaven.

And on this side of the curtain—the side we live in—is everything that we can know by natural means, for example, through our six senses. This includes Information Technology.

On the other side, are things that are only known in heaven:

• The eternal realm of past, present and future
• The realm of the Spirit and spiritual reality
• The realm of God—His knowledge, His desire, His plans

Revelation—the Greek New Testament word means uncovering, or disclosure—is when the Holy Spirit parts that curtain.

We catch a glimpse of what God has in store, or receive knowledge that the Father wants to disclose to us at that time.

God Wants to Reveal Mysteries to us

Those things on the other side are a mystery to us. We cannot discern them by natural means. But we can discover them with the help of the Holy Spirit.

This concept of the ‘mysteries’ is a biblical one.

In 1 Cor 13:2-3, Paul says,

If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.’

That word mysteries in the NT GREEK is ‘musterion.’

The Vines Concordance has this to say about it:

In the NT [mystery] denotes…that which, being outside the range of unassisted natural apprehension, can be made known only by divine revelation, and is made known in a manner and at a time appointed by God, and to those only who are illumined by His Spirit [1].

When Jesus’ disciples asked Him why He spoke to the crowds in parables, His response was:

“Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. Matt 13:11-12

The Power of a Prayer Language.

The gift of a prayer language is a powerful tool that can help us access this realm of revelation.

The Apostle Paul said,
‘Anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit.’ 1 Cor 14:2-3

That word translated ‘mysteries’ is—again—the Greek word, ‘musterion.’ It also means ‘secret.’ When we pray in the Spirit using the gift of tongues, we are praying heaven’s secrets—things that haven’t been revealed in the earth realm yet.

We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. (Rom 8:27)

How to Exercise Prophetic Prayer for Breakthrough

There are many ways that we can use supernatural revelation that the Holy Spirit has revealed to us as we pray. Here are 5 types of prophetic prayer:

1. Receiving: Waiting on God, in prayer, or during prayer, for His insights (Hab 2:1)

2. Interceding: Receiving revelation whilst praying for people or circumstances, or using insights already received to pray for them (e.g. John 17:20-23)

3. Warfaring: Using revelationary knowledge to wage spiritual warfare in a prayer context (A great example of this is David, who prophesied Goliath’s downfall in 1 Sam 17:45-47)

4. Ministering: Using prophetic prayer in the context of ministering to people

5. Proclaiming: Using prophetic insight to make powerful declarations and commands (e.g. Ezekiel 37 valley of dry bones)

The Challenge

I believe that God desires to communicate His plans, purposes and Divine knowledge to us even more than we realise.

The challenge to all of us is, ‘Will we get into the place of intimacy with God where we can receive it?’

[1]. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words, (c)1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers.
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Related Posts:

Is It Time to Birth Your Prophetic Word In Prayer?

The Power of Prophetic Prayer

© Helen Calder 2010   Enliven Publishing

Now on team with David McCracken Ministries

‘With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.’ Isa 12:3

Recently, the conviction has been growing in me to have an attitude that rises up to say,

‘I will dig a well in the place where God has led me. I will not sit back and wait for breakthrough and the release of God’s purpose and presence in my home, my relationships, or my church to happen. I will not become disheartened when God’s prophetic purposes are delayed, nor will I give way to the temptation to give up or move on.

Instead, I will proactively and expectantly pray and do whatever it takes for breakthrough to come.’

The Unseen Resources of Heaven

For the past 8 years, The Hunk and I have been living in Victoria, Australia—a region that is suffering drought.

I learned recently that here in Victoria, groundwater provides drinking water for 60 cities and towns. Amazingly, a large percentage of the world’s fresh water is actually under the ground, not on the surface of the earth.

Rain that falls to the earth seeps into the ground – and that water travels under the ground through water-carrying soils (sands and gravels) and rock strata called ‘aquifiers.’

Consequently, there is a HUGE resource of water lying concealed beneath the earth.

Springs of water occur where one of the aquifiers that is carrying the water under the ground meets the ground surface so that the water flows out.

So when God says, “I am the spring of living water” (Jer 2:13) He is also saying, “I am the Source of Life. And in Me all the unseen resources of Heaven are there to back you up.”

These unseen resources of Heaven are ours—but we need to access them, to tap into them.

The Water of Life

In Biblical times, groundwater was accessed and life sustained through the digging of wells.

In Genesis 26, Isaac, along with his family, servants and flocks, was forced to change locations. Isaac re-opened wells that his father Abraham had used and discovered fresh sources of water. However locals contended that the water belonged to them.

Finally, Isaac moved to a new place. In Genesis 26:25 the Bible records that he

• Built an altar
• Pitched his tent, and
• Dug a well.

When his servants located water, he knew they had found the source of life and could live there permanently with their families and flocks. Beersheba became Isaac’s home for the remainder of his days.

How To Dig A Well

Like Isaac did, we can dig a well and make room for God to move wherever we find ourselves. Here are 5 ways that we can ‘dig a well’ for spiritual breakthrough:

1. Choose the Ground

Ask the Lord to show you where He would have you concentrate your prayers and efforts for breakthrough at this time. It could be one area or many.
It could be your home and family, your church or ministry, your community, a relationship, or someone you would like to see come to Jesus.

2. Prepare for the Work Ahead

This is where we resolve that we want God to move.
Now is the time to reflect. We are not satisfied with living by our own strength, neither are we content with the results that we have seen up until now.

We long for God to get the glory in our household, church, and place of study or work, and we will not settle for less than Jesus’ best.

Ask the Spirit to fill you and stir up in you the inner resource of resolve that you need to start digging and to keep going until breakthrough happens and His life, power and provision is released.

3. Start Digging

It’s time to break ground–to begin somewhere, no matter how small our efforts may seem at first.

We must dig deep to locate water. We dig primarily by praying, and we pray because God is our Source. He is the Living Water. We are totally reliant upon Him.
We start with prayer, but we do not stop at prayer. We also dig by listening to what the Lord is saying for our situation and obeying Him. We dig by speaking life-giving words.

4. Persevere–Keep On Digging

The ground may be hard, others may give up, but we must stay and persevere. This choice will confront us again and again.

Recently I have been meditating on this. I have resolved to, when I encounter dry ground, not to give up and move on, but to dig a well in the place God has called me.

5. Focus on the Water, not the Dirt

When digging a well, there is a lot of dirt to encounter before we reach the water. We can easily be tempted to pay attention to the things that are wrong or less than perfect in our situation, church or relationships.

Don’t focus on the dirt to be removed, focus on the water that to be received. Keep your eyes on the prize.

Remember, nothing is too difficult for God, and if He has given you a vision, it will be fulfilled.

A well represents provision and life.

A physical well can provide drink—and therefore life—to a community. When we determine that we are going to dig a well, it is not just about ourselves, but for many.

Would you like to see God move in an area of your life—your family, a relationship, a locality, your church or ministry—and fill it with His Presence?

Dig a well.

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Related Posts:

Spiritual Renewal: How to Receive a Fresh Impartation of the Holy Spirit

Portal Moments: Supernatural Encounters with God and Answers to Prayer

© Helen Calder   Enliven Publishing