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SPIRIT RISING MAGAZINE is a bi-monthly publication designed to help readers live with strong and certain Biblical strategies as their guide. The magazine’s focus is to give very practical and applicable information on living in and through the Word of God. This is done through detailed per issue topic exploration. Topics relate to matters which directly affect a reader’s ability to live a fuller, more focused, more determined and purposed life. The subject matter discussed will be covered and explored through various angles.
Publisher E. Claudette Freeman Editor-in-Chief LaWanda Scott Associate Editor Gloria Rodriguez Columnists Elder Veronica Bedford Craig Stafford, Master Life Coach Deborah L. Jones-Allen, PhD Cheryl E. Knight-Locke Contributing Writers Dr. Dale A. Robbins Mercy Rice Gloria Rodriguez
PECAN TREE PUBLISHING MAGAZINES Ministering to every generation – creatively, excitedly, boldly, progressively and with practical application of the Word of God at the forefront.
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Creative Director E. Chantaye Watson Graphic Design Jenette Sityar SPIRIT RISING MAGAZINE is published by Pecan Tree Publishing, www.pecantreepress.com, Hollywood, Fl 33020. Online ISSN 2159-3744, Spirit Rising ISSN 2159-7057. Pecan Tree Publishing chose to present the publication in the online format to shatter the readership restrictions on some print publications. While there will be no subscription rate for the online edition, allowing free and continual access to issues; the publication may also be ordered in a print-ondemand basis for a nominal charge. For submission or editorial guidelines, as well as questions, comments or general feedback please email: spiritrisingmag@ pecantreepress.com. For advertising inquiries, please email: solutions@pecantreepress.com. Our office hours are Monday – Friday, 10a-2p. For inquiries not listed here, please call 877-207-2442.
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Within these pages 6 Prayer
LaWanda S. Scott
8 Does the Devil Really Make Me Do It?
Elder Veronica Bedford
14 Who is Really in Control?
Mercy Rice
18 Recognizing and Defeating Your Enemy: the Devil
Dr. Dale A. Robbins
20 Which Influence Will You Follow? The Choice Is Yours
Gloria Rodriguez
26 Victory Starts In the Mind!
Deborah L. Jones-Allen, PhD
32 Life’s A POW! - 3 Steps to Keeping Your Life Powered Up
Craig N. Stafford
35 Spirit Rising Thought Stream
Selena P. Williams FR Kimberly Lemon
40 Risen Spirit Devotional Calendar 46 Abundant Power 50 Let’s Talk About It… 52 Salvation is Free!
Prayer Father we know that you are omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient. We know and believe that Your power is the greatest source of power that there is. We thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit which is all the power we need when facing challenges in our lives. Help us to draw on this power while embracing our faith. Help us to live victorious lives, not easily defeated by circumstances that we often times initiate ourselves. Give us the wisdom to understand the importance of spending time in the Word daily. Shower us with Your love that will enable us to live victorious lives while we embrace the true essence of your power daily.
LaWanda S. Scott Editor-in-Chief
6| SPIRIT RISING
Nahum 1:7 (NAS) The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who take refuge in Him. S P I R I T R I S I N G |7
Does the Really Make Me Do It? ELDER VERONICA BEDFORD
8| SPIRIT RISING
Whether or not we want to admit it or even recognize it, there are some images that are ingrained in our minds. Oftentimes when one thinks of God, an elderly Caucasian male with a long white beard or a Santa Claus image appears. Just as there are images of God in our minds, there is an image of Satan. When we hear the word Satan, a pitch fork carrying being in a red suit with horned ears appears. It is my opinion that these images work to our detriment when it comes to experiencing and/or understanding spiritual matters. I further feel that our religious vernacular about this evil being also works to our disadvantage. This image and our terminology have the tendency to give this entity either too much or too little power. In actuality, much of what many Christians believe about “Satan” (and unfortunately some of our Christian beliefs/practices) are rooted in pagan rituals from the Middle Ages. I do believe that Satan exists and that there is power in that evil entity, but it is not in the form of the one carrying the pitchfork. While evils exists, it is not omnipotent (all-powerful) or omnipresent (present everywhere at the same time).
In order to answer the questions concerning the origin and power of Satan, we must first know the origin and power of God. The Bible is clear about the fact that when nothing else existed, God was. It is also clear that when all is gone, God will still be. As such the only eternal, everpresent, all-powerful being is God. 1 John 4:8 says, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 Corinthians 13 tells us that without love, we have nothing. It describes love as patient, kind, does not envy, does not boast, is not proud, does not dishonor others, is not self-seeking, is not easily angered, keeps no record of wrong doings, does not delight in evil but rejoices in truth. Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes and always perseveres. Love never fails. God’s essence is that which is good, loving, just, righteous and holy. When we encounter a spirit or a presence that which is anti-God, a presence that is anti-love (whether that presence is outside of us or operating within us), then we know we have encountered a demonic or satanic presence. When we are not experiencing or operating in care for others and self, a demonic spirit is present. Satan would love to have us
S P I R I T R I S I N G |9
the Bible and experiences of others who are lead by strongholds – depression, suicide, prostitution but with prayer and fasting have been set free.
What power does Satan have over humanity or over a Christian?
Pastor Jackson believe that he is all-powerful and ever-present, but as a created being, he is not. However, he is not without his influence. Satan does have the ability to influence us, Christians and non-Christians. However, those of us who operate in the love of Christ have been equipped with power to withstand his influence. To provide additional insight into the existence of Satan, I interviewed Pastor BaSean A. Jackson, Senior Pastor and Organizer of the Fellowship of Love Church in Fayetteville, Georgia and Minister Kanisha Billingsley, Associate Minister of the Greater Traveler’s Rest Church in Decatur, Georgia.
Pastor Jackson: One’s alignment with Christianity is a decision and Satan’s influence is in part a matter of decisions we make, but also a matter of the conditions of the circumstances we are in. A Christian who is in the midst of unloving conditions might be influenced more by the power of Satan than the person who has never heard about Christ, but is surrounded by love. Christianity does not necessarily lessen the influence of Satan, but it does and should give Christians more tools to fight the influence. These tools are awareness; spiritual disciplines, and a spiritual community – a church. Minister Billingsley: I do not believe that Satan is omnipotent or all knowing because then he would be like God. I believe every being (people/animals) is sensitive to negative influence/energy or demonic powers, regardless if you are Christian or not. Christians should be able to recognize the influence or oppression of the energies because of the person of the Holy Spirit. Some people, even Christians who have not been taught, can have their lives overtaken by negative energies. This leaves their emotions exposed to negative forces. We are not taught to pray instantly when we recognize the change in our moods. These are places where we are very vulnerable. There is no discrimination, negative energies surround us all and try to infiltrate us all
There are those who say demonic influences Is Satan real? Where does the notion of Satan don’t exist. What is your opinion? originate? Pastor Jackson: Satan’s first prominent appearance as a being first occurs in Job. The actual name of Satan is mentioned in 1 Chronicles when David counted the people of Israel. Minister Billingsley: Yes. There is a force of some kind that some would say is representative of negative energy that is diametrically opposed to light, love and shared community. I believe we call this being Satan. He doesn’t look like we imagine, he is a spirit. Just as God has angels, Satan is a being with many friends we call demons. My opinion is influenced by
10| SPIRIT RISING
Pastor Jackson: I believe evil exists; but what the exact genesis or constitution of the evil forces entail, I don’t know. Minister Billingsley: My response ties to theological anthropology ; if someone subscribes to the view that when God created humankind with a defect then everything bad that happens is not a demonic influence but a matter of people being sinful, being born sinful. I don’t know how I envision the creation of humankind, but I believe that in God’s image we are created good, but because we are human we are not perfect. There are things that people do that are beyond human faults,
those things are evil. For example, child abuse, that’s beyond our ability to conceive of independently. However, because it is beyond our ability to conceive, it doesn’t mean we are not responsible for the consequences of those actions. The converse is true. There are things that are good, which are beyond our ability to conceive without the Holy Spirit’s influence.
How does one recognize the influence/activity of Satan in their life? Pastor Jackson: Acts or deeds fall into at least three categories: Loving (Moral), Neutral (Amoral) and Unloving (Immoral). Satan represents the power /force/impulse/urge to act in unloving ways. Minister Billingsley: You recognize it when your actions are diametrically opposed to life, love and community, when you realize that you are not “the you” that you know anymore. If you are in a not in shared, loving community with people, there is a norm of expectancy about our/their behavior. Paul stated that, “we wrestle not against flesh and blood.” I believe he recognized the change in people he walked among. It is possible for people to surrender themselves to negative energy or to the demonic world; to choose to worship Satan and seek power that it is manipulative; witchcraft. However, I struggle with people being able to put “roots/voodoo” on you; you must give permission for this to happen, because Satan is not all powerful. Just as in Job’s story, Satan must be given permission.
The phrase, “the devil made me do it” is quite popular. How does one know when it is Satan or self ? Pastor Jackson: Why would it matter? When we consider the darkness/light metaphor to explain good versus evil, the only way to eliminate the darkness is to brighten the light. If we get the spiritual disciplines of praying, connecting to a spiritual community and acting in loving ways, we lessen the effect of evil practices. Whether it was the devil or the person, the strengthening of the positive side is what essentially matters. Minister Billingsley: Satan says, “That’s not my area” when it comes to some of the things we say the devil made me do. Sometimes we have to trace the history of our actions. If one lost their home, was it due to the devil or poor financial practices. I’m not saying that negative energies are not/cannot manifest in physical ways, but if one should be stricken with cancer it is possible that it’s just a matter of the body being flesh and bone and subject to illness.
Is there too much emphasis on Satan? Pastor Jackson: Yes, I don’t see that type of focus on Jesus. If there was more focus on Jesus, the church would be one that is much more ethical than cosmological. Most times deliverance comes from living a new way, from being a new way. Jesus quantitatively talks about how to be in the world. In the stories where He encounters the devil, it never transfers into his ministry. If the devil was that important, then why don’t we hear about in the preaching/teaching of Jesus?
Minister Billingsley Minister Billingsley: I think we’ve trivialized it what it means to be a spiritual embodiment of evil. It has become church rhetoric; if you want to get people riled up just say something like “tell the devil you can’t have it.” It has become more of a call and response, than a focus on the seriousness of the embodiment of all that is bad/evil, opposes life, love and community and is able to impact the lives and personhood of individuals. That is a serious claim that should be treated as important as the claim about God.
Veronica Bedford is an ordained minister with over 14 years of experience in preaching and teaching Biblical principles. She is the founder of Latter Glory Ministries, a ministry dedicated to providing practical Biblical instructions and holistic spiritual and personal growth. Elder Bedford has a Masters of Theological Studies Degree and certification in Religious Education from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. She has also developed curricula for ministers-in-training, church leadership development and addressing the challenges experienced by women in ministry. For information on the curricula and Latter Glory Ministries, please contact Elder Bedford at: latterglory_ministries@yahoo.com
S P I R I T R I S I N G |11
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2 Corinthians 12:9 (NAS) And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.� Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
S P I R I T R I S I N G |13
MERCY RICE
WHO is
REALLY in
CONTROL 14| SPIRIT RISING
There is a Tokay Gecko in my laundry room. Statistics show that it’s about ten inches long and it makes a funny sound. An otherwise sane individual might offer, because of the difference in size, this little creature cannot harm me. As a matter of fact, I did see it bolt when I entered the room, right before I ran screaming bloody murder in the other direction! You see, the problem with this scenario is not that the facts are wrong. It is that my brain is choosing to believe something else. For weeks I’d been hearing this creature make its funny noises somewhere in the backyard and it really didn’t concern me at all. My panic only began when I heard it INSIDE THE HOUSE! This breech of perimeter was NOT okay! When my superhero husband checked to see how the gecko had gotten in, the answer was simple. The door was left open and he simply let himself in. My “gecko analogy” helps me understand the authority I give the enemy in some areas of my life. The only authority he has over me is the one I willingly relinquish. By leaving doors open through distraction, lack of communication with God, relying too much on self, I become an unwitting pawn in his scheme of inactivity. He doesn’t need to work too hard at thwarting us. He just needs to distract us with enough “stuff” so that we’re rendered useless in God’s kingdom agenda. If we investigate closely, however, we’ll see that most of the time adversity is brought on, not by the gecko in the laundry room, but by the woman (or man) in the mirror. Paul says it best in Romans 7:15-23 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do-this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. Many times what seems to be a battle against evil forces is actually a battle being fought in the six inches between our ears. Our minds hold us captive, hold us back, keep us in fear and distract us from the tasks to which God has called us. How do
S P I R I T R I S I N G |15
So, are we to discount the idea that the enemy of our souls is craftily devising schemes to steal our joy, kill our mission, and destroy our peace? Not even for a minute. Something we should keep quite clear in our minds is that Christ defeated Satan at Cavalry – but He didn’t destroy him. It’s for that very reason that Ephesians 6:11 tells us “Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.“ If there was no need to stand against the devil’s schemes, there’d be no need to suit up on a daily basis. There’s a balance between seeing a demon behind every bush and thinking everything is in your head. We benefit from the counsel of wise friends and mentors. Most importantly, we benefit from clear and honest communication with the God who made us and knows us best. Remaining steeped in His Word, His promises, and His wisdom over our lives, will keep us free from distractions and focused on the mission God has given us to accomplish. What doors have been left open in your life? What unwanted influences have you allowed to take residence in your heart? Now is the time to choose to let go and to consecrate our lives to our Heavenly Father. “I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” Philippians 3:12-14
we know whether the battle is within or without? Let’s look at three checkpoints that will help guide us: What is coming out of our mouths? (The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21) How are we reacting to the “attack?” Are we confessing the Word of God over our circumstance or are we retreating and accepting defeat? Where do we turn for help? Are we seeking help vertically from God or horizontally from friends, loved ones, etc? When we find that our actions are not lining up with the Word of God, chances are we are the ones getting in our own way. It’s a hard pill to swallow but necessary so we can truly know which enemy we’re fighting, the devil or our own flesh.
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MERCY RICE and her husband, Jeff, have been residents of Homestead, Florida for the past thirteen years and will celebrate 23 years of marriage this April. Mercy has been delighted to serve as conference speaker, short term missionary, and as author of her BlogSpot www.mercyrice.com where she adds a bit of humor to the everyday stuff that makes our Christian walk the adventure of a lifetime! She readily admits a life of imperfection and dependence on God’s mercy and forgiveness. She sums up her calling this way: “Experiencing this level of undeserved grace in my life has birthed a new passion in me – the desire to share God’s grace with others. Not just those that don’t yet know Him, but those that, like me, have been in the family for a while but have not truly understood the level of God’s love for them and the real meaning of “unmerited favor.”
Isaiah 40: 29-31 (NLT) He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow wear, they will walk and not be faint. S P I R I T R I S I N G |17
Recognizing and Defeating Your Enemy:
the Devil DR. DALE A. ROBBINS
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8 18| SPIRIT RISING
Every Christian has an enemy. Although unseen by the natural eye, this adversary is not imaginary nor a mythological character. Satan, the Devil, is a real person... a spirit being, with intelligence, tangible characteristics, and whose incessant goal and ambition is to “steal, kill, and destroy” (John 10:10). Around the clock the enemy is on the prowl, seeking to cause mayhem and destruction to all believers and the work of Jesus Christ throughout the world. With military-like strategy and ruthless hostility, the devil aggressively searches for weakness in our faith and spiritual life, hoping to devour us with deception, temptation, or oppression. He is the personification of all that is evil and is the author of every despicable work. Regardless of whether you realize it, Satan has targeted you as a victim. He knows your name and address, your strengths and weaknesses. Somewhere in the shadows, he and his forces lurk, waiting, planning for the moment they will strike when you’re caught off-guard. He desperately hopes that you will, as do many Christians, remain ignorant of his reality so that you’ll blame his assaults on somebody or something else. His method of operation is almost always undercover. Subtly, he manipulates hindering circumstances and inspires evil thoughts or temptations, disguising his activities behind the shroud of people or things. He will always seek to divert attention and blame for his actions upon others. But make no mistake; he is the real enemy, not your husband, wife, employer, government or Christian brethren! “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12). The good news is that, although the Devil is described “like” a roaring lion, in reality he has no actual authority over believers. He is not really a lion, but roars like a lion would to bluff his victims into fear and intimidation. Satan is a liar and deceiver and uses deception as his weapon to gain advantage over those who are ignorant of the limitations of his power. When Jesus gave his life on the cross as the sacrifice for the sins of the world, He also redeemed us from Satan’s power and dominion over us. “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” (Col. 2:15) “...For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8). Praise God! Satan is already a defeated enemy! His legal authority was neutralized by the finished work of Christ on the cross. So if Satan is already defeated, why is he still able to cause trouble? Because, even though Christ broke Satan’s legal power, the Lord has left it up to us to “enforce” the Devil’s defeated condition. It’s our responsibility to use the authority that Christ has given us to put Satan in his place. As a believer, you need not fear Satan, but realize and exercise the authority which God has given you over the Devil. Every person whose name has been recorded in the Lamb’s Book of Life (all those who are saved) has been given authority over the power of the Devil.
“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you” (Luke 10:19). You have the right to use the authority of the name of Jesus to repel and drive Satan out of your territory and to break his grip over spiritual strongholds (2 Cor.10:4). When you recognize Satan’s activity and covert operations, take authority over him in the name of Jesus! Just as Jesus and the early apostles did, command Satan to leave (Mark 16:17). The Devil hates the name of Jesus and detests an atmosphere of praise and worship which exalts the name of Jesus. Christ said, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matt. 18:20). Be assured, the presence of Christ will expel the presence of Satan. Lifting up Jesus in praise will send the Devil running! The name of Jesus will drive Satan away. But it would be futile to order Satan’s departure if we leave the door wide open for him to flourish. The Bible tells us to not “give place” for the Devil (Eph. 4:27). That is, provide no area of your life where Satan can be comfortable or establish strongholds. The enemy can always be found working in those who entertain sin, disobedience, rebellion or a self-willed nature. Unforgiveness toward others is another area which Satan flourishes (2 Cor. 2:11). Furthermore, any area of your life which is not submitted to God is considered open territory to the Devil, and he has the right to bring his expanding influence to those areas. This is why the scripture says, “...submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). The only way to actually resist Satan is to submit yourself fully to God. This was what Jesus was referring to when He said, “...the ruler of this world is coming, and he has nothing in Me.” (John 14:30) Jesus had submitted himself to God, and although the Devil would try Him, there was nothing for the Devil to use to gain an advantage. By submitting to God, and exercising your authority in the name of Jesus, you are more powerful than the enemy. “...He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).
Dale A. Robbins is the founder and president of Victorious Christian Ministries, and has served as a pastor, teacher and evangelist for over thirty years. He has written numerous Christian books and articles, and is the author of the book, What People Ask About The Church. He earned his Doctorate from American Christian College and Seminary of Oklahoma City, OK. Robbins is a pioneer of internet ministries, and for many years was a producer and host of Christian television programs in the Northern California area. He is listed in past editions of Who’s Who in Religion. He and his wife, Jerri, an accomplished Gospel singer, are frequently featured on nationwide TV broadcasts. Together, they have ministered in scores of cities and churches across America. He currently writes for various publications and conducts meetings and seminars in various churches and locations.
S P I R I T R I S I N G |19
Which Influence Will You Follow? The Choice Is Yours GLORIA RODRIGUEZ
Who would walk away from a Two Million dollar offer to play professional sports? No one - right? Well, we found someone who did. Miami Hurricanes Alumni (No. 34) and former NBA Dakota Wizards Forward, Will Frisby did just that. Spirit Rising Magazine Associate Editor Gloria Rodriguez sat down with Frisby to discuss the spiritual and natural challenges he faced during his career with the NBA’s Development League. He candidly shares how he overcame many of those challenges by learning how to tap into his God given power to live a more fulfilled life.
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craziness began. She has been my anchor for all these years; keeping me grounded and helping me remember the bigger picture. She has always been the only trophy in the case that really mattered. It was Cristina in 2003 who first brought me to what once was Flamingo Road Church in South Florida. When she first introduced me to church, we sat all the way in the back and I wouldn’t even stand for a song. I can’t believe that was me. It has been a boy to a man transition. The man I am now, leads one of the largest ministries at Flaming Road, which is now named Potential Church.
Spirit Rising: Tell us about Will Frisby. Frisby: From 2004 until 2010 I played basketball all over the world. I have had the chance to visit about ten different countries, like: France, China, Holland, Portugal, Germany and Belgium. Basketball literally took me and my family all over the world. I was fortunate enough to meet my wife before all the
I admit the journey was not without challenges nor was it quick. I faced many trials before it became clear to me that pastoring was my calling. For years I struggled with listening to the nudge. It came in many forms, from tithing to just feeling convicted about hanging out with certain people. One strong nudge that really stands out in my mind was the day I and Pastor Chris Brown (a Potential Church ministry leader) went out to lunch. I have to say I had been only playing professional ball for about two years and I was still so very full of myself. I remember the conversation as if it was yesterday. He looked me in my face and said “Will your calling is here in the church,” I laughed at him. There was no way I was going to give up what I was doing to work in a church. Well God definitely had a plan for me.
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Spirit Rising: What were some of the negative influences in your career as a professional athlete?
myself why I was so caught up in this “thing” when I should be focusing more on the bigger picture.
Frisby: The lifestyle of a professional athlete is tough in and
Spirit Rising: Can you think of a time when you felt you were under heavy attack from the enemy? How or what made you recognize it for what it was & what adjustments did you have to make?
of itself. You literally walk around with a target on your back spiritually, financially, and emotionally. You were placed in situations with women as well as people asking you for money.
Spirit Rising: Did you consider these to be spiritual attacks? If so, can you give me some examples of what it looked like or how it felt? Frisby: Yes. When I was playing ball, it was women and money (money being the bigger issue for me). No matter how hard I tried to turn away from it (the offer of women and money), it was always there. I couldn’t run far enough from that combination. It was hard. When you have so much of something, it’s hard not to get caught up in it and lust after it.
Spirit Rising: How did you recognize the attacks? Frisby: I recognized the attack on the issue of money when my wife Cristina was pregnant with our second son, Legend. I had this truck that was everything to me. I wanted this for my truck, that for my truck.... I was all about my truck. And if I couldn’t get what I wanted for the truck, I was upset. I asked
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Frisby: Yes, the money. Tithing was a huge part in bringing me to realize the money issues. I struggled with it continually; however, my wife continued to encourage me and bring up Bible verses that I honestly didn’t even understand at the time. The day came when I had to give that check, which was hard. However, after that first check, and seeing how God worked for my family when there was no work for me, was enough for me.
Spirit Rising: How did you handle the heavy influence of your colleagues? Frisby: The peer pressure does not stop at 18. Although I’ve made some mistakes in succumbing to the pressures, I’ve learned from them. God showed me something in each of those mistakes. He showed me how to pray for discernment over who I allow to influence me. After a while, you just kind of tend to weed those people out and surround yourself with people of like mind (Iron sharpens Iron).
Spirit Rising: What would you say to young men that are headed into the NBA or D-League? What advice would you offer them and why? Frisby: Hold on to your faith. If I would have held onto my faith back when I started playing ball in college, I know I would still be playing professional ball. Not that I don’t love and have aspirations for what I’m doing now; I just probably would not have lost that career. When you don’t have faith, you lose yourself, your sense of integrity, and your character.
Spirit Rising: Where are you now? Frisby: I’m happy. I’m working at Potential Church as the First Impressions Director as well as the Global Coordinator for our in house store. I feel a sense of purpose, and God is in first place in my life, where He’s supposed to be.
Spirit Rising: What brought you into ministry? Frisby: I was faced with a few different offers right before I came into ministry. One was playing ball overseas for two million dollars and another was for the NBA Milwaukee Bucks. The decision making process wasn’t easy, however, after praying and fasting, I knew that God wanted me to pursue ministry full time.
Spirit Rising: Do you feel attacked by the enemy more or less not that you’re in full time ministry? Frisby: More. Absolutely more. When you put on that God jersey, you know, that’s the time when the enemy really wants to attack you. He knows that you’re in God’s grace and he wants to try you in every single way that he can.
Spirit Rising: What’s the difference on how you handle the attacks now as opposed to before?
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Frisby: I’m not alone now. Everything I do, I do it within the Lord. I look at the trials that come my way as opportunities. Will Frisby is currently dedicated to full time ministry leading more than 250 volunteers. He serves as the First Impressions Director at Potential Church of Hallandale Florida. Mr. Frisby is a proud father of two and husband to Cristina Frisby.
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Philippians 4:13 (The Message) Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.
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Victory Starts In the Mind! DR. DEBORAH JONES-ALLEN
As believers, everyday has the possibility of being filled with health and success or challenges and hardships. The choice is yours. You have free will as well as God’s permissive will for your life. However, from the beginning of time, God’s original plan has been one filled with hope, health and an abundant life. Today this remains your inalienable right as a child of God. Yet, many of us fail to use the power that is promised to us in the Bible. When you search the Bible you will find that Jesus is acquainted with all your problems, sorrows, trails, tests and sufferings.
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Those who were wounded early in life find themselves in a constant battle to remain in ‘the here and now.’ They wrestle with un-forgiveness and understanding their value to God because of past sins. Deep within, the enemy holds them in a position of defeat and intimidation. A psychological heaviness overwhelms their mind and tempts them to abandon a true and living God who died so that they may have eternal life in Christ. This death was an exchange so that all who believe on Him may have power over the plans of the enemy. Remember, Satan does not want you to walk in your calling, discover your purpose and live out your destiny. Satan’s assignment is to assault, battle and cripple your mind using strong imaginations, defeat, discouragement and doubt as his weapons, using a strategic plan he himself devised after being cast out of the heavens. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Revelation 12:9 also put this scripture in some kind of emphasis box Lucifer made war with God to create disharmony in the heavens, despite his position to worship our Creator using music. Because Satan can operate in a person’s belief system, it is important that worship music does not send negative, emotionally stirred messages, creating false illusions in our minds. Satan uses your mind as his target. The mind is where God communicates with you and reveals His will to you. It is unfortunate that some Christians have minimized the significance of the mind, because the Bible emphasizes its importance. “For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.” Romans 8:6 The enemy uses subtle musical distractions as dark barriers to build walls in an individual’s mind; thereby preventing their hearing and discerning of the Spirit of Truth. However, if one makes some careful observations, they will find the negative themes
“
behind these arousAnd the great dragon was cast ing distractions. Often times when we out, that old serpent, called the can cease our minds Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth from wandering, we the whole world: he was cast out are able to discern into the earth, and his angels were the truth about what cast out with him. Revelation 12:9 we are actually feeling, such as shame, guilt, fear, envy, pride or the enemy’s taunting or encouragements to relinquish your power. For example, if an individual is experiencing feelings of hopelessness, the demon may send an internal message that says, “Nobody cares about you,” “God can’t love me” or “they are here now, but tonight you will be alone.” Thus the individual accepts they are powerless. Satan has caused an internal emotional conflict resulting in a faulty belief system that leaves a person confused and filled with emotions and fears. Scripture says, “as a man thinks in his heart so is he.” On the other hand music has an enormous power to confuse the enemy through true praise and worship. John 4:23 reveals to us that a time is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth. Indeed, the Father is looking for people like that to worship him. This means that the Father uses anointed music to heal, deliver and drive out demons through a corporate worship experience. God created man for his glory. To show forth his praise, selecting the right music can evoke peace and this is where worship begins in the heart. Often Satan’s lies can take root within the memory. Something shocking happens and the mind pushes it into some inaccessible corner of the unconscious. Later, the memory emerges into consciousness when triggered by a strong emotional surge during a praise and worship experience. It is here that a weakened belief system is exposed to the attacks of the enemy. Many times the spirit of pride prevents the individual from hearing God’s voice. It causes a powerful war within as well as prevents one from making peace with their past, healing damaged memories, forgiving and experiencing freedom to live a productive life. Thus when people seek the help of counselors, pastors or Christian support groups they are encouraged to seek
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truth through God’s Word, prayer and silent meditation. The counselee is encouraged not to waiver from the promises of God; and to allow the Spirit of Truth to overturn everything that has held them captive in their own emotional prison.
“
While God may allow attacks on your physical body you can be at peace to know that you are under His divine protection. The Lord calls us to follow Him, renew the mind and He will not lead us into temptation but will deliver us from evil.
Integrating scriptural truth with compassion is a powerful and effective tool in the counseling session. It is a place where forgiveness is encouraged. Forgiveness is not forgetting - it’s a choice that allows painful and repressed memories to arise from the subconscious to the conscious level seeking the truth needed to destroy the plans of Satan. God’s word is immutable, unwavering and cannot change. He has given you power and authority to overcome and destroy the adversary’s influence over you. If you are going to win this battle, you must know how the enemy operates in your mind, his weapons and his targets.
You have power and the equipment to fight against these spiritual forces and attack them using the weapons as described in Ephesians 6:10-18. Live confident knowing that your power over the enemy is the Holy Spirit. Now I’m turning you over to God, our marvelous God whose gracious Word can make you into what he wants you to be and give you everything you could possibly need in this community of holy friends. (Acts: 20:32 Message)
Put this highlighted part in special emphasis box. While God may allow attacks on your physical body you can be at peace to know that you are under His divine protection. The Lord calls us to follow Him, renew the mind and He will not lead us into temptation but will deliver us from evil. I admonish you to believe God’s Word and stand against Satan’s deception by taking every thought captive in obedience to Christ. You have a promise that when you resist the devil he will flee. Be on the alert guarding the areas in your life that are weak. If they are left exposed and unguarded this is sure to be the very place that Satan attacks.
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Dr. Deborah Jones-Allen is the Director of Daughters of Siyyon, a Chartered Counseling Ministry Center of the National Conservative Christian Church. She is a Licensed and an Ordained Minister receiving a Ph.D. in Clinical Pastoral Counseling, a Doctoral of Ministry in Christian Counseling. She is a graduate of Carlos Albizu University where she majored in School Guidance Counseling, receiving a Master’s of Science. She is the author of “Mirrored Reflection: You’re Only Looking at the Surface of Things.” Sharing her wisdom and personal journey of overcoming childhood abuse, low self-esteem, rejection and family struggles, fuels Dr. Allen’s passion is to advance hurting people who are in need of restoration through emotional healing.
Psalm 121: 2, 3 (NAS) My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber.
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You may not understand everything kids say. But that’s ok. You don’t have to be perfect to be a perfect parent. Because kids in foster care don’t need perfection. They need you. AdoptUsKids.org
There are some wonderfully simple things you can do to keep your life fueled with power. In Florida, power or electricity is operated through the large utility corporation Florida Power and Light (FP&L). Let’s examine your power source, your FP&L (Fresh Power and Light) bill. This bill is known as your belief system. These tips are designed so that you can keep your spiritual house shining bright with Fresh Powered Light and increase in divine sight so when negative forces arise as the “storms of life;” you’re not left feeling powerless. Your FP&L allows you to save heart, mind and spirit because you are more emotionally stable automatically making you more physically stable. The two major areas Fresh Power and Light target are stress and the feeling and/or appearance of powerlessness. When you as a believer of eternal good are freshly powered up the need for medication and psychological counseling is eliminated or decreased. You turn to the Source within for healing and re-energizing. FP&L also allows you to go “green” meaning you have more time to grow and experience the wonders life has to offer from a pure and organic place. This means you use less energy fighting woes within the world because you are preoccupied living only in the rapture of love. Living in the rapture of love signifies to others that God is love and that you love your neighbor as you love yourself. Love is the fuel that powers up all things. Love is what makes life a POW! Power CANNOT be taken from us neither can it be given away. We are powerful at all times. Our power can, however either be high or low and in some cases very low. Nevertheless, it is still there and it is still active. I define power as an innate energy/force that equips us to succeed at all things.
Life’s A
POW! 3 Steps to Keeping Your Life
POWERED UP CRAIG N. STAFFORD, MASTER LIFE COACH
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I encourage you to know that you can achieve all things being the “light of the world” as stated in holy writ. Here are those three simple steps that will maintain your freshness, your power and your light:
P=PRAY Meditate and visualize your inner power being protected by God daily. This can be done by visualizing the words “my power” surrounded by a bright light.
O= Own Own who you are and trust that your power supply is sufficient to complete the task at hand. Obligate yourself to practice your inner worth and power on the outside. This can be done by making decisions for yourself instead of turning to other people to decide for you.
W= Write Jot down things that make you feel powerful and even those things that make you feel powerless. Then use the list as a road map or compass to help you on your journey towards fulfillment. Remember you are powerful at all times. Powerlessness is an illusion. Be assured according to Mark 6: 7 as He “gave them power.” The key to keeping your power high and your light bright is love. I pray that you will utilize these tips so that your FP&L bill- Fresh Power and Light belief system operates smoothly. And finally, until our next session let this be your affirmation: I AM powered up!
21st Century Thought Leader, Craig N. Stafford is an Ordained Minister, Master Life Coach and Motivational Speaker. He specializes in mental reprogramming using scientific application and spiritual principles. He pioneers in thought technology fusing aspects of theology, numerology, psychology and biology together engineering an innovative formula for a new paradigm for happiness. Stafford is also a Certified Bio-energy healer and Aroma-therapist. Visit www.morelifelab.com to learn more about Craig N. Stafford.
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Psalm 91: 1-3 (NIV) He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.
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SPIR IT R ISING THOUGHT
Stream
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We’ve seen the varying opinions from our writers, guest contributors and columnists on the matter of “Satan’s Non Power.” We posed some very specific questions on the topic to some of the female members of the SPIRIT RISING THOUGHT STREAM. The THOUGHT STREAM is a collective of lovers of God’s Word, Pastors, Ministers and Bible students who will offer their special insight each issue. Three women of God, Selena Williams, F. R. and Kimberly Lemon have provided insightful, thought provoking responses that we hope will spark some conversation among you!
Why do we give the enemy power where there is none?
FR Well first let’s begin by taking responsibility for our own actions that give him power in some cases because we choose to. Now, ignorance and lack of knowledge of who we are and what we possess “in” Christ could very well be two reasons. Also, ungodly cravings and appetites are two more reasons. The Bible tells us to “set” our affections on things above and not in this world (Col. 3:2). Remember the story about Esau selling his birthright? He gave away his birthright for food; well we received “rights/privileges” at our NEW Birth and we don’t want to give them away because we think what we will receive is more important than what we have nor do we want to give it away because we despise or are ungrateful of what we have (Gen. 25: 30-34).
Williams
Lemon
We live in a defeated posture when we lose perspective of challenges and TEMPORARY defeats. These are part of the human experience designed to bring out our Christ like character and mature us. We lose perspective of our final victorious position in Christ. We continuously forget the power of sin and death has been stripped away, so we don’t get up from our falls. We believe the explanations of people who don’t understand the Word and we don’t study for ourselves to dispel the myths about Satan.
I believe we give the enemy power because we at times doubt that our God has all power and don’t understand that the enemy can only do what he is allowed to do. We also underestimate the power of prayer as a weapon to use against the enemy; instead of using that power we retreat in defeat because we have made our problems bigger than God. This comes from not knowing the God we serve. As we take the time getting to know God through relationship we will recognize and know the enemy is powerless.
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What are the most common assumptions of power that the enemy has or uses?
Williams Many think Satan is equivalent to God that he is omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient and yet he is not! We associate that since he is not human and a higher creation than we, then he is must be equal to God. He cannot read our thoughts, he can perceive them due to his cunning abilities, and familiarity with human nature from Adam up to us today. We assume that He can prevent us from being blessed by God. Wrong again! He effectively discourages us from receiving our blessings. People assume Satan can put them in Hell. Only our failure to accept Christ as Savior and denial of the Holy Spirit can result in our going to Hell, and that would be man’s doing, not Satan’s.
FR The most common assumption the enemy uses is fear. The enemy assumes power over us based on our response to what he offers. When we choose to accept what he offers it cancels out what we have possession of. For example, he only offers fear where he sees faith so if I accept the fear it cancels faith and he assumes or is empowered to operate in the area I gave him access to. Last week God spoke to me and said
accept “ONLY” what I give you. God said I have not given you the spirit of fear, but I have given you LOVE, POWER, and a SOUND MIND (2 Tim. 1:7). We empower the enemy through ignorance of who we are and His promises the Word.
Lemon One of the assumptions the enemy uses against us is our faults. He is the accuser of the brethren, therefore when we miss the mark we give him ammunition. But the word of God tells us if we confess our faults that God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteous. As Christ did in the wilderness, we must use the Word of God when the enemy comes against us. Secondly, the enemy sows seeds of doubt in our mind about our salvation and we have to remember we are not saved because of our works but because of the work Christ did on the cross. Once we know who we are in Christ he can’t use that lie anymore.
What are some ways that we can diminish the power of the enemy in our life?
Williams
Daily remember what Christ’s atonement accomplished for us eternally; Respond to Satan’s attack on our position with God with remembering that God does not revoke his gift of
S P I R I T R I S I N G |37
salvation and He expects that we will make mistakes; Focus on living in right standing rather than attacking the enemy; Love God and others with our actions!
but to learn. God says come unto Him and “learn” of Him. We have to be taught how to live “the God-type” of life.
Lemon
FR Recognize and expose the enemy. Stop making excuses/allowances for our flesh. Kill the flesh; die daily (1 Cor. 15:31). Renew your mind (Rom. 12:2). The enemy operates and dwells in the flesh and carnal/old nature of man and will try to hinder one from walking in His true born again spirit of Jesus Christ. The Bible says that we have been crucified with Christ it is no longer “I” who live but Christ who lives in me, hallelujah (Gal. 2:20). “I was broke, I was sick, I have a anger problem, I have a weight problem” well thank God that “I” is dead because it’s no longer that “I” who lives but Christ who lives; so let HIM LIVE IN AND THROUGH YOU. Become a student of the Word. Not just going to church as the learned
First we must recognize who the enemy is. When we recognize these three, Satan, the world system and self, we are then able to respond to our situations based on the Word of God and live a life that is pleasing to God by the aid of the Holy Spirit. We are to put on the whole armor of God so that we can stand against the wiles of the devil (Ephesians 6:10-11). Also, we must be transformed by the renewing of our minds and not allow the world system to be our guide. (Romans 12:2). Finally, we must realize that God has given us everything we need to live a victorious life and we must be doers and not just hearers of the word. We have to be like Paul and die daily to self and bring our flesh into subjection so that we can submit to the will of God for our lives.
Selena P. Williams partners with Pastor Corey P. Williams to cultivate Christian leaders by teaching practical skills to live abundant empowered lives. She leads the Believers of Christ Women’s Ministry under the Pastor’s vision with an acute focus on developing people through service to God and others. 2011 has been marked by the launch of the “Successful YOU!” Seminar series which helps believers increase their effectiveness and live prosperously. A devoted student of the Book of Proverbs, Selena is applying herself to absorb the teachings of King Solomon to become a wellspring of wisdom and example of humility for her family and ministry. Selena is blessed with the gift of encouragement and the ability to offer support from a compassionate perspective. FR Is a humble servant/student of God. She has been saved for years but can truly say “now” she is truly growing and developing in the word of God. She will joyfully be celebrating 6 years of marriage this year to a wonderful Man of God. They do not have children of our own yet but do have 4 beautiful God children. She is a covenant partner of Oasis Christian Ministries International of Miami, Florida. Kimberly Lemon is a Pembroke Pines, Florida resident, married 25.5 years to a wonderful man with three great sons. She is a member and servant of the St. Andrews Missionary Baptist Church of Opa Locka, Florida under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Larry T. Walthour II moving forward in the Kingdom.
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That 9 dollar lunch is worth more than you think. Like 19,000 dollars more. Pack your own lunch instead of going out. $6 saved a day x 5 days a week x 10 years x 6% interest = $19,592. That could be money in your pocket. Small changes today. Big bucks tomorrow. Go to feedthepig.org for free savings tips.
Risen Spirit Devotional Calendar july 3-9
Each day we have an opportunity to believe God and experience a victorious life of trust and obedience. He wants us to take Him up on His Word and live in the richness of all He has promised to do in, through, and for us. It is up to us to take the necessary action steps. It is our prayer, at Spirit Rising Magazine that these devotionals will assist you in living in the fullness of what Christ has called you to. May you be blessed!
Hope: Hope is at the core of what we believe as Christians. Without it we lose faith in the
promises of God. The word speaks of the hope of salvation and speaks to the need to endure through trying times. 1Thess 1-3; Rom 15:13; Tit 1:2 and 3:7; Acts 26:6-7.
10-16 Peace: There is no greater benefit in life than having peace. It is one of the foremost things
that are considered priceless. Jesus promises peace to all those who trust Him and yet we relinquish our peace so often. Allow the peace of God to give you the rest you seek during troubling times in your life. Gen 26:29; Ps 120:7; Isa 9:6-7.
17-23 Love: The Lord admonishes us to above all things to love one another. It was He who
first exemplified love when He gave us the gift of His Son Jesus. Seek Him when feeling challenged to love people as He intended. John 13:34; 1Thess 3:12; 1Cor 16:14; Pet 1:7.
24-31 Trust: As Christians we determine how much trust we will put in God based on the size
and appearance of our problems. However God says we are to trust Him in ALL things! Consider why you waiver when trusting Him. Meditate on His Word that shares the promises He has made to us when we place our confidence in Him. Matt 27:43; Mark 10:24; Luke 11:22; 2 Cor 1:9.
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august 1-6
Power: In this issue we talk about the Power of God that enables us to walk this Chris-
tian journey. The power of the Holy Spirit is mighty! However it is of no value to those who don’t operate in it, draw on it and trust it to be all powerful! Matt 26:64; Mark 14:62; 1 Cor 1:24; Rom 1:16.
7-13 Prayer: Prayer is so much more than us bowing the knee, putting our heads down,
hands up, or crossed “right.” It’s about positioning our hearts towards His. It’s about putting our focus on Him, not us. Whether you are a seasoned Christian or you’ve just come to know the Lord; know this, “To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” -Martin Luther King Jr. Engross yourself in the Word of God this week. (Phil.4:6; Mark 11:24; Rom.8:26; 1 Joh.5:14,15; Ps55:17; Col.4:2)
14-20 Simplicity: I think we, as Christ Followers, have taken the free gift of Grace and made
it more complicated than Christ intended it to be. We don’t “do enough”, “work at it enough,” “participate enough,” “give enough,” etc. All of which is a LIE that the enemy tries to get us to believe. Grace would NOT be Grace if it required doing anything “enough”. This week, I’d like to challenge you to commit 2 Corinthians 11:3 (NKJV) memory.
21-27 Truth: Too often we give up the very Truth that God imparted in us when we invited Him
into our hearts. Many times we rather believe the opposite of God’s Word. This week, take with you, these powerful truths that The King of Kings & Lord of Lords say’s about YOU. Psalm 139:13-18; Psalm 17:8; Deuteronomy 7:6; Psalm 119:114; Psalm 45:11
28-31 Heart: Our hearts can deceive us, and if not checked regularly, can trip us up. There
is nothing more that God wants than a heart bent towards Him. Let us come boldly to the throne and ask The great physician how our hearts are beating. Grab hold of these scriptures as you reflect. Deuteronomy 2:29; Deuteronomy 6:5; Deuteronomy 10:12,13; 1 Samuel 16:7; Psalm 26:2
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Psalm 73:26 (NAS) My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
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Journaling
Abundant CHERYL E. KNIGHT-LOCKE
Power
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Power is defined by Webster’s dictionary as possession of control, authority, or influence over others. A question that you may ask yourself regularly during various stages in life: Who is the most powerful? Who influences the decisions that you make? For young children, the who-has- the-mostpower question might include: Mom or Dad, Batman or the Joker, Superman or Lex Luther. For the politically astute, is it Democrats, Republicans (including the Tea Party Republicans) or Independents. Let’s not forget the consistent male female debate regarding who is in charge and “running things” in relationships. There is one power mêlée – God or Satan – where the answer is crystal clear on who has the most power. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10 KJV According to the New King James Version, Kingdom Dynamics Commentary, Jesus said that He came to give life – not just ordinary existence, but life in fullness, abundance and prosperity. On the other hand, the enemy (Satan) comes only to steal, kill and destroy. The line is clearly drawn. On one side is God with goodness, life, and “plenty” of all that is necessary for life, and on the other side is the Enemy of our souls, who comes to rob us of God’s blessings, to oppress our bodies through disease and accidents, and to destroy everything that we love and hold dear. As a Christian, you have decisions to make daily. Who will have the most influence regarding your attitude toward yourself, your family, your commitments and your career? How will you react when you face challenges? Will you allow Satan to steal from you and destroy your day? Will you focus on God and His promises, His protection and His power to provide an abundant life?
Practical Application During the next week, document daily the influences on your decisions and attitudes. Honestly evaluate the outcome and determine what changes need to be made to ensure that you are experiencing the abundant life that God has promised.
Cheryl E. Knight-Locke, President and CEO of A Royal People International is a native of Miami, Florida who obtained her B.A. in Accounting from Florida A&M University in 1994. Initially, her idea of success was defined by outward measures such as having a loving two parent home, sustaining an excellent academic record, maintaining a dress size that is acceptable by the world’s standard, participating heavily in ministry and obtaining a career in Corporate America. However, she still did not feel complete and experienced depression, low self esteem and self worth. It is a result of these struggles that the vision for A Royal People International, Inc. was birthed in February 2000 and came into fruition with its first product; I am Royalty - Your Identity in Christ, a 31 day daily devotional tool in 2006. It is her prayer that many others will recognize that real success comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ and embrace His unconditional love, grace and mercy. Visit www.aroyalpeople.com for more information and to order your copy for I am Royalty.
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Philippians 4:6, 7 (NAS) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
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Let’s Talk About It… What a tremendously thought-provoking issue! We encourage you to continue the discussion and dialogue started here in your family or ministry group. As Will Frisby reminded us, the Bible does say iron should sharpen iron. We hope some of our questions will help spark some in-depth and life affecting conversations.
1 2 3 4
Based on the information shared in this issue, can you identify at least three ways that you have potentially allowed the enemy too much access into your life? Dr. Jones-Allen points out that the battle between good and evil begins in the mind; what are some strategies you can employ in your life to cast down thoughts, vain imaginations and every thought that is contrary to the Word of God? As a follow up to that question, do you believe having a mind accountability partner can help you in this regard? What is your personal goal to taking back any power that you have relinquished to the enemy? Craig Stafford gave an affirmation of power; list at least two scriptures that were mentioned in this issue that you are going to commit to memory and use as reminders of your divine power.
We would love to hear about some of the responses or questions that were generated in your group discussion or in your personal observations. Please take a moment to share them with us by emailing: spiritrisingmag@pecantreepress.com.
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Psalm 4:8 (NAS) In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety.
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Salvation is Free! The Bible says, “For all fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23 ESV) It also states, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16 NASB). Your decision to accept salvation is an act of faith that is as simply means you are positioning your heart towards His. If you want to take Jesus’ hand and accept His free gift of salvation, we invite you to pray this prayer with us. Heavenly Father, I come to You in prayer asking for the forgiveness of my sins. You have called me to yourself in the Name of Jesus. I confess with my mouth and believe with my heart that Jesus is Your Son, and that He died on the cross that I might be forgiven and have eternal life. Father, I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and I ask that You come in to my life right now and be my personal Lord and Savior. I acknowledge that I am a sinner and have sinned against You. Cleanse me of all unrighteousness and forgive me. Surround me with Your grace and true believers of Your Word who will help me on this journey. I thank You for the indwelling of Your Holy Spirit that gives me the power to overcome sin. Jesus I invite You to become Lord of my life to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. In Jesus Name, Amen! If you prayed this prayer with us, the Bible say’s “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9 ESV) We encourage you to join a local church so that today’s decision will be nurtured and that you may truly experience the power of God in your life.
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