WHO ELSE, BUT GOD?

 

Isaiah 40:27-31 (King James Version)

 

 27Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the LORD, and my judgment is passed over from my God?

 

 28Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.

 

 29He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.

 

 30Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:

 

 31But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

 

In these times, much is going on and many are becoming weary. But I dropped by on today to encourage your heart and to remind you that God is the creator of all, He is the provider that sustaineth all and He is ever present to help His children.  Many times when we are on a mission for God, things don’t always happen right away. But there is yet power to sustain the visionary. There is yet power to sustain the Saints of God who acknowledge Him in all things.

 

Many times, we become discouraged by the naysayers, the doubters and the haters. BUT GOD has something to slap their heads.  And because of who He is, we know that in Him, we are Victorious. There is a type of Victory that comes from God that is like none other. In fact, True Victory only comes from Him.  That’s why it is imperative that we wait on Him. And not only shall we wait on Him, but Believe Him. And not only shall we Believe, but we shall position ourselves to Receive of Him.  There is an overflow of Blessings ready to overtake God’s people. But in order to receive, you must get through the test. Pray, watch as well as pray, maintain an expectancy in Him, Believe in Him and Receive of Him.  In order to do these things, we need to make sure that we are properly positioned. You can’t birth something great in any old position.  You must maintain an expectancy with a proper attitude. That may mean dismissing some things and some folks from your surroundings. Distractions are meant to throw you off course, but if GOD said it, that settles it.

 

We often look to the wrong ones for support and approval. But who are they? The Creator of Heaven and earth has called you to a task and you look to another creation for approval? No!!!!!!!!!  The Lord says to whom will you compare Me?  In other words, who else but GOD?  Yes, there are people that He will send your way to encourage and admonish and to help with your vision. But don’t ever get it twisted. He is God and God alone. No one else has set your assignment and no one else shall have the say over it. No man shall call its demise.

 

Just when it looks like your vision is gone and your purpose is dead, God has a way of showing up and showing out on your behalf. The Word says Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding.  In other words, you may get tired and you may get weary, BUT GOD the everlasting, the Creator of all things, DOES NOT FAINT, NEITHER DOES HE GET WEARY!!!!!!!!!!! Do not stop your vision or your mission because of what it looks like. He may not come when you want Him, BUT GOD WILL SHOW UP and HE WILL BE THERE RIGHT ON TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Who can understand such a thing?  Who can understand how He’s going to use you? Who can understand how He has positioned you to be blessed? Who can understand that your situation has nothing to do with your miracle? Who can understand that in spite of what they think about you, God has anointed & appointed you? Who can understand that the one that they once knew is now a new creature. Who can understand that in spite of your age, GOD is using you the greater? Who can understand that your breakthrough is just that powerful? WHO ELSE BUT GOD??????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might He increaseth strength.  When I am weak, look out, because then I am strong. The joy of the Lord is my strength. And if you thought that because your penny nickel understanding of God’s anointing was good enough to define His glory, take another thought. The only reason why folks cannot understand your anointing, is because they don’t have it themselves. And many are limited to only what they have received. But if they really knew GOD, they would understand that the same anointing can rest upon them if they dwell in the secret place of the Most High GOD. What I got, I didn’t get from man, therefore, I have no interest in man’s approval of it.  I just use it to be a blessing as the Lord commands. Who else should I expect to understand it? WHO ELSE BUT GOD????!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Who else can give you strength to wait, when people are lying on you, talking about you and plotting against you? Who else can help you carry your anointing when those around you have never seen anything like it? Who else can help you run and not be weary in a weary land? Who else can help you walk it all the way out and not faint? WHO ELSE BUT GOD??????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

I’ve seen people come and I’ve seen people go.  I’ve seen ministries start and I’ve seen ministries fold.  I’ve seen under shepherds up and I’ve seen under shepherds down.  I’ve had help and I’ve had hindrances.  I’ve had friends and I’ve had foes.  But I’ve never had a truer friend than JESUS. And I declare and I decree that if GOD has said it, it is settled in Heaven and shall Manifest in the earth.  Cover your spiritual eyes and ears. Guard your anointing. Gird up your loins. Get rid of the distractions. And BELIEVE, BELIEVE, BELIEVE!!!  And you shall RECEIVE the Blessings of the Lord.  And if one is stupid enough to stand in your way, they shall utterly be removed. And if something happens that causes the path to unstraighten, Call on JESUS and it shall utterly be straightened.  And if you just so happen to forget who has already done it on your behalf  WHO ELSE BUT GOD??????!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Saints, we love you and we love you again. But above all, GOD loves you best. Keep believing in Him and Him alone. WHO ELSE BUT GOD???????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Pastor Velvea Brown

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

He Is Risen

Matthew 28

 

Happy Resurrection Sunday to all who believe. I bring you greetings in the Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I want to share with you some of the highlights from today’s sermon – He Is Risen.

 

 Today, we celebrate what the world calls ‘Easter’, but we as believers know it as ‘Resurrection Sunday’.  The pre-season begins with what we call Lent. Lent is the preparation for the Resurrection.  It is 40 days prior to the Resurrection. It begins with Ash Wednesday. And then we have Palm Sunday (the Sunday before Resurrection Sunday). Then, after Palm Sunday, we begin Holy Week or Passion Week. And then, there is Good Friday, which commemorates the death of Jesus Christ. And on the third day, is Resurrection Sunday. This is when Jesus arose from the grave with all power in Heaven and in earth. And about seven weeks later, there was what we know as Pentecost, when the Holy Ghost fell on the Apostles and other believers.

 

And that’s where we should be as believers, living in Pentecost – not as a denomination, but rather as a movement of faith.

 

So on today, in observance for what Jesus Christ has done, we want to specifically take a look at the Resurrection. How did it get to this point, and what does it mean for us today?

 

In order to understand why the resurrection was necessary, we have to go all the way back to the beginning with Adam and Eve. There is where sin stepped in. Eve began to conversate with the serpent and he persuaded her to partake of the fruit from the tree of good and evil, the tree in which God had specifically given instructions for them to not eat from. And so sin had to be judged and problems of the world there began. And then we later find Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. And then there came the Children of Israel. By now the law (the Pentateuch) is well in place and folks are still messing up. Later came Kings and Queens as leaders of God’s people. But sin is still riding. And while there were some along the way who were actually in good standing with God – none of them could do what Jesus did. That’s why we need a Savior.

 

So 42 generations later, Jesus steps on the scene. He comes as a baby in Mary’s womb, born in a manger, no room in the inn and no crib for His bed. He had very humble beginnings. He is raised by Mary and Joseph. And by the age of 12, we find Jesus teaching in the synagogue. He later takes on disciples and begins teaching the ways of the Father. He begins working miracles, healing and delivering the sick and the afflicted.

 

Pharisees and Sadducees are well after Him by now, because of His teachings. They were still stuck on the law, but He is teaching grace. He informs them that He has not come to destroy the law nor the prophet, but to fulfill.

 

But for them, that’s not good enough. They follow Him and they spy on Him. They call Him other names like prophet. Somebody even got slick out the mouth and said He was of beelzebub, calling Him a devil. The called Him a false prophet, an imposter. But through all of the foolishness, He kept on going that the Father would be glorified. And they challenged Him, but He kept on going, doing the will of the Father.

 

But what set everything off was when He raised Lazarus from the dead. Folks got nervous. They began to wonder and worry about their own position. They said that with that miracle, the people would surely believe and He would take over the Roman empire. So now, they increase their mission to crucify Him. But little did they know.

They put out a word that if anyone should see Him to show them where He was. For they were out kill both He and Lazarus.

 

So by this time, Jesus, knowing all things, He begins to prepare the disciples for what was to come. He even knew of the betrayal that was at hand. He passed the sop to Judas and told him, ‘that which you do, do it quickly’. He continued to prepare the disciples for what was at hand. He told them that He would send a Comforter – the Holy Ghost. He instructed them on how to go on, in spite of how they would be hated by the world.

 

This brings us to the point of betrayal, which would take place in the garden. The same high priest that was set in place that year, whose name was Caiaphas, had prophesied to the Jews leaders that one man would die for the Jews. It was Ciaphas father-in-law, Annas who they took Jesus before for judgment. There we find Pilate on the scene. He could have stopped the crucifixion, but he didn’t. But Pilate, although convicted that Jesus was found in no wrong, he went along with the Jewish leaders for fear of what man would do to him. In honor of the Passover, he gives Jesus over to the Jews.

Pilate begins scourging Jesus.  The soldiers platted a crown of thorns and placed it on His head. They had made him carry His cross. They begin to place a purple robe around Him, mocking Him.  They begin to physically assault Him. And they nailed his hands to the cross.

 

Then Pilate brings him again before the Jews, once again convicted, but still afraid of man. They all decide to crucify Him. Their reason is because they said that He broke the law, because He made Himself the Son of God. Pilate became afraid, but he still sided with the Jews. Pilate knew that this was wrong. And so much so, that he wrote on Jesus’ cross, ‘Jesus Christ of Nazareth, King of the Jews.’ He wrote this in three languages, Hebrew, Greek and Latin. He did so, because he knew that the people would come from in town to see Him. Caiaphas told Pilate that he was the King. And Pilate told him what’s written is written. So, the writing remained on the cross.

 

They took His garment and casted it for lots. This was allowed that the scripture might be fulfilled. And when He thirsted, they gave Him vinegar. He said,’ It is finished’ and He gave up the Ghost.

 

At this point, they wanted to take Jesus and the other two men off the crosses in honor of the Passover. They would traditionally break their legs to make sure that they were dead. The broke the other two men’s legs, but when they got to Jesus they decided that there was no need break His legs, because He was already dead. But there is always one on the scene to take things to next level. One of the soldiers pierced His side and blood and water came running out. All who were there bore witness of this.

 

At this point a ‘secret disciple’, also afraid of the Jews, asked Pilate for His body. Pilate granted it so the disciple and Nicodemus anointed His body with aloe and myrrh and wrapped Him in fine linen and they buried. Him. The Jews still being uncertain wanted a watch around His grave, because they said that He had stated that He would arise on the third day.

 

Now on the third day, after His death, He arose from the grave with all power in Heaven and in earth. An Angel of the Lord ascended with fine white linen and a face of lightening. He rolled back the stone and sat on it. The soldiers watching the grave became as dead men and did nothing. The Angel did this to show Mary Magdalene and all who visited His grave that there was no more than an empty tomb. He told them to spread the good news that Jesus was not amongst the dead, but was alive.  The watchmen, being afraid went to the Jewish counsel and told them what happened. The counsel told them to put out a word that His disciples had removed His body from the grave. They did this in hopes of the lie making it to the governor’s ear and watchmen not being killed. This same lie not only continues to circulate in the Jewish community today, but works against the naysayers as proof that Jesus Christ lives.

 

And even though His disciples did not stand up for Him, He loved them. So much so, that He visited them three times after the Resurrection, before He ascended into Heaven. He worked miracles amongst them, gave them further instructions and He breathed on them and filled them with the Holy Ghost. That’s true love.

 

In His instructions, we find The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). He says that ‘all power is given unto Me in Heaven and in earth’. If we are going to work for the Lord, we must understand that He is all power. ‘Go ye therefore’ – go everywhere, ‘and teach all nations’ – don’t leave anybody out. This could be next door or in the next country. Go tell all that Jesus Christ lives. ‘Go make more disciples by preaching, teaching and baptizing’ – each one is to reach one. ‘baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost’. Some people want to baptize in Jesus Name only, but the instructions are clear. Some do not want to baptize at all and that is also direct disobedience. While baptizing itself does not save it is very important. It symbolizes the death of sin and the beginning of new life. It symbolizes submission to Christ, that you are willing to live God’s way, according to the Scripture. And it also provided identification, or likeness, with God’s covenant people.

 

This particular part of the verse also deals with the Triune God, being three in one – the trinity. While the term trinity is not found in the bible, it is understood that the triune God is God in three persons – God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost. And this is what we know as the blessed trinity.

 

Further on, He says, ‘teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you’. Teach them to obey according to the word of God, not what you think is right, but according to His word. Healing and deliverance – this is also a part of whatsoever I have commanded you. He earlier instructs the disciples that those things which they saw Him do, they were to do. And I am convinced that this gets a lot of folks in the church in trouble, because folks are not being healed, not being delivered and not being set free, because somewhere along the way, the church got too sophisticated to continue working miracles in the Name of Jesus. But we’re still taking up offerings, building the edifice and taking titles and positions. For what? You’ve got to bring the whole truth. Speak peace. Speak healing, speak deliverance and speak freedom in deed in the Name of Jesus. Here is where you go forth in Jesus Name.

 

And in the latter part of The Great Commission, He says ‘and lo (surely), I am with you always, even until the end of the world.’ The disciples were hoping for a new physical king, but they go more than that. They got our Savior, King and Lord. He sent His Holy Spirit as He promised as a comforter and a reminder. We are to be reminded of the word of God and we are to know that He is with us.

 

Anytime that we are trying to carry out the will of the Father, the Holy Spirit is our help. Do you believe that God has called you to preach? That’s fine, but make sure that you have the Holy Ghost.

 

Is He calling you out of a world of sin? Just come to Him and give Him your heart. Learn of and take on His ways according His word. Don’t stop along the way because of a hang up. For He was hung up for our hang ups. But keep going to church, receiving the word. And He will fill you with the Holy Ghost. And after the Holy Ghost, you shall have power.

 

Is God telling you to forgive someone? Are you saying that this is too hard to do? Consider the disciples and how they betrayed Jesus. And yet He returned unto them, not once, but three times and their relationship grew even stronger. Forgive someone today and you shall also be forgiven.

God loves you, so much so that He gave His only begotten Son that whosever believeth on Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.

 

Live today for Jesus and know that He lives!!!

 

Yours In Christ.
Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ Ministries

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

No Greater Love

John 15:13

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

 

St. John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life.” And on this day that so many celebrate around the world as Valentine’s Day, people are looking for the recognition of love. People want to feel loved. People want the validation of others to love them and appreciate them. And while it is in our nature and our divine creation to feel the need for love, it is also a right as GOD’s creation to be the recipients of a greater love.  This love that I’m talking about is not of flesh and earthly desires, but this love is of divine being that is above all love that we could ever encounter. 

 

GOD loved the whole world enough to consider us all when HE gave us the greatest love above all love. It’s not just for those who think that we are the only ones saved, but to them that will BELIEVE. And although HE knows who will and will not accept this love, HE did not ostracize nor exclude anyone. HE simply states that whosoever will believe should not perish, but have everlasting life.  And unlike us, as humans, who have a tendency to pick and choose whom we will love, how we will love and when we will love, GOD loves EVERYONE at all times.  And if we could get that in our spirits on today, the church would be a force to be reckoned with. 

 

GOD’s love is not just meant for some of us, but it’s meant for all of us. And even though we fall short of HIS love on multiple occasions, because HIS love is real and it is divine, it never stops. Even in our shortcomings, HE pursues us, HE chases us, HE corrects us, and HE encourages us.  Instead of kicking us to the curb, like we so often do, HE chases after us for a return unto HIM. And just like those who will send flowers, candy & other gifts in pursuit of new love or an ongoing love, GOD gave us the gift of HIS only begotten Son. What a gift, what a gift, what a gift!!!!!!!!!!!!!  And this gift is the gift that keeps on giving. Not only does HE give us a gift, but this gift is JESUS, who gave HIS life for HIS friends (the believers).  And I don’t care what gifts we receive on today and how loved we feel on today, there is no greater love that we could ever have than the love of GOD through CHRIST JESUS.

 

GOD Bless you Encourager For Christ Family.  Happy Valentine’s Day. We love you and we love you again. And remember, GOD loves us best.

 

Until the next time…. BE BLESSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Sincerely,

Pastor Velvea Brown

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

Humble Yourself & Be Exalted…

Luke 18:9-14 (King James Bible)

 ⁹And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:

 ¹⁰Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

 ¹¹The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

 ¹²I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

 ¹³And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

 ¹⁴I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

 

In the time that we are living in, so many saints are being called home. So much is going on in the earth. And so many changes are taking place in everyday life as we know it. And while I would never go against the Word of God that we are to prepare ourselves, because Jesus is soon to return and no man knows the day nor the hour.  Let me enlighten you that preparation is found in a twofold manner. One in that your heart has been made right with GOD. And second that you fulfill the scripture where HE says, “occupy until He comes.” By no means have we ever taught nor believed anything different in this ministry.  But even in the light of what we are to do, some feel that they have a spiritual advantage over others in the Kingdom. Some feel as though what they have to offer will be more well received than that of others. Some even feel as though they are more justified, making them righteous, and others a mess. And while I will be the first to admit mistakes in life, it was those same mistakes that GOD used to bless me, to deliver me, to elevate me from where I was (in sin). But by no means shall I have the right to believe that I am more than my neighbor.

 

In today’s text, Jesus spake in this parable of two men who went into the temple to pray. One was a pharisees and the other a publican (tax collector).  The pharisees took an approach that many church goers today often take. He felt like he had himself together and had a right standing with God. Even his prayer suggested that he was already where he needed to be and by his own thoughts, could go no further. His prayer never gave adoration unto GOD, nor did he render thanks for grace and mercy toward his own shortcomings (sin). But rather he gave thanks for not being like others and he even had the nerve to name the ones that he was comparing himself to, even the publican. But if he had a proper approach to GOD, he would have known that his comparison is to be to that of GOD and not of man. We already know that man is a mess. But Jesus has already made the way of escape from all of our messes. We don’t need anyone to point out our sins to us in order for us to know that we need GOD. But rather if you can simply take the year of 2010 and focus on yourself, examining your own shortcomings, there would be no room to pick on your brothers and sisters. Some feel so high and exalted that they don’t even see that they still need GOD. Some feel as though Jesus is simply a name to call on when they want to run and shout or for material goods. And while I too get excited at the Name of Jesus, I call on His Name for many things, including when I’m wrong. Self-righteousness sends a foul incense into the very nostrils of GOD. And I believe in my spiritual mind that some have developed spiritual chronic halitosis. Every time you open your mouth, a foul scent comes forth. Why? Because you fail to humble yourself and exalt the Lord. Everything is about you and how saved you are and how righteous you are and you good you are unto GOD. But if you were to ever stop bragging and ask HIM what HE thinks, there may be another answer coming forth. Anyone can take a person who is down & out or a person who has been caught in sin and compare themselves to that person when they have not been caught of anything at that moment. But who in the land is worthy of being compared to GOD? Comparisons, if utilized incorrectly, are dangerous. If you look at the wrong thing, you will line your life up the wrong way. So it is unto those who compare yourselves to that of others and not to that of GOD. JESUS is the only one that is perfect. And while we are saved, get it right à saved sinners by grace is what we actually are. And when you understand that you are no more than the next person, then it is easier to lower yourself before GOD and exalt HIM.

 

By no means do I ever intend for anyone to take this as an escape to sin, for the bible tells us that the wages of sin is death. But understand that in CHRIST JESUS, we have a refuge from sin. And in His ways, you will find eternal life. And if you are a part of this House of Refuge, then you understand that you had to be saved from something (many things, if the truth be told). And even though people may not see all of your issues or you may have not been found wrong openly, sin is still sin. And while it is imperative that we strive everyday to live life right and be prepared to go home with the LORD at any given moment, understand that you cannot do this in yourself. You need a Savior and you have things that you need to allow GOD to work on daily. The meditation of the heart is filthy, if the truth be told. Jealousy, envy, strife, backbiting, coveting, and self-righteousness (just to name a few) are all sin. And if you be honest and examine “yourself”, you will find something there that needs a little work.

 

Just like the pharisee in this text, he judge his neighbor and compared himself to someone who had outward sin. But because the publican had outward sin, he and everybody else knew what he was. That, in all honesty, made it easier for the publican to be delivered. There was no hidden mess. The pharisee, on the other hand, had hidden mess in his heart. He was super saint. He had it all sown up and was ready for glory. But look at how this passage ended. It was the publican who had found mercy. The pharisee did not. For every one that exalteth himself shall be abased (humbled); and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Sometimes we may have to just agree to disagree. But by no means shall 2010 be about foolishness for this ministry. Do what GOD has called you to do and leave others alone. This ministry has a two-fold purpose à one, soul salvation & right living; & two, to occupy in the earth until HE comes. You cannot properly occupy without first taking your rightful place in salvation. And if you are saved and trying to live all that you know how in GOD, simply tell GOD thank you. But look upon no man to measure yourself. Look to JESUS. And humble yourselves before the ALMIGHTY GOD.

 

GOD Bless you all, Encourager For Christ Family. Remember, we love you and we love you again. But GOD loves you best.  Until the next time…. Be Blessed!!!

 

Yours In Christ,

Pastor V. Brown

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc. 

 

 

 

 

DOUBLE BLESSINGS IN 2010 – GOD IS DOING A NEW THING!

 

"This is what the LORD says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:16, 18-19

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR ENCOURAGER FOR CHRIST FAMILY!!!  We love each of you so very much and do THANK GOD for your continuous prayers & support toward this ministry.  We have come a mighty long way. We have seen highs and lows, bump and bruises, good and bad, ins and outs. But above all, we have seen the MIGHTY HAND OF GOD BE FOR US & MOVE ON OUR BEHALF. We have been restored into servitude with a purpose. Many did not make it over into this year. But we made it over for a reason. There is something that GOD has in store for us. There is something that HE has assigned for us to do. And in 2010, let us be diligent in so doing.

 

I know that at the end of 2009, there were a lot of requests and I want you to know that GOD has heard them all. HE has delivered. But the manifestation of that deliverance came forth immediately for some and is yet forthcoming for others. 2010 is the year of double increase. So, if you did not do as well in 2009 as you would have liked to do, reposition yourself in GOD immediately. DO NOT BACK DOWN on the WORD OF GOD. We have to understand that IF GOD BE  FOR US, WHO CAN BE AGAINST US. HE IS THE GOD OF ALL FLESH. IS THERE ANYTHING TO HARD FOR GOD?  The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof, the world and they that dwell there in.  Everything still belongs to GOD. Therefore, realign yourself with the WORD OF GOD and watch GOD move. Do not be hoodwinked nor bamboozled by false prophets.  Stay in the WORD OF GOD. For in HIM, there is VICTORY!!!

 

How will you experience your VICTORY if you don’t trust HIM?  Man is giving a lot of lip service these days, BUT GOD is doing a NEW THING for HIS PEOPLE – to them that believe; to them that actually belong to GOD. But the key is to RUN AND NOT BE WEARY, WALK AND DO NOT FAINT.  And when you go forth in GOD this year, continue to go with a spirit of expectancy & excellency. For some of you are right at the door of your breakthrough. But the enemy wants you to give up so that you will miss GOD.  DO NOT ERR MY BELOVED. STAY THE COURSE & STAY FOCUSED ON GOD.

 

Dwell on this thought for a moment… the LORD has created the Heavens and the earth with HIS outstretched arm. HE had made a way through the sea and a path through the mighty waters. There were some situations that should have taken us under. BUT GOD!  There were some trials and some tests that we should have failed. BUT GOD! There were some verdicts that came back from the tongue of man that said guilty. BUT GOD! There were some things that weighed in as uncertain. BUT GOD! There were some reports from the doctor that said one thing, BUT GOD said another. And even now, there are some folks looking for us to drop the ball on GOD and fail, BUT GOD… .BUT GOD…. BUT GOD….!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Let me help you in the renewing of your mind, so that you can reposition yourself for DOUBLE VICTORY! FORGET ABOUT ALL THAT MESS & ANYONE WHO BRINGS MESS! For the WORD OF THE LORD says forget about the former things. Let all the mess go! Forget about it! Toss it into the Sea of Forgetfulness. DO NOT DWELL IN THE PAST. Even if they didn’t know the real truth about the situation, let it go. DO NOT TRY TO CONVINCE THEM, BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT FOR YOU. FORGET ABOUT IT!  DO NOT DWELL IN THE PAST. I REPEAT… DO NOT DWELL IN THE PAST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

GOD IS DOING A NEW THING!  And it does not matter how many times you have heard this nor how many people have disappointed you. You’d better get yourself together and reposition yourself out of man and into GOD. That’s why some of you have missed the mark of forgiveness, you are still dwelling in old mess. But reposition yourself in GOD and understand that HE IS DOING A NEW THING. And forgiveness does not mean that I will dwell in your camp of mess. But rather that I will pardon your mess and pray your strength in the LORD, as I pray my own. But I ABSOLUTELY REFUSE to refuge in unrighteousness. I want the NEWNESS OF GOD to MANIFEST in my life and in the lives of those around me. I want to see it. I want the DOUBLE ANOINTING of GOD’s TRUE SERVANTS to spring up!  I want the blessings of GOD’s people to overtake us like never before! I want the LOVE OF GOD and the Fellowship of the Sweet HOLY SPIRIT to come in like a flood, so that we can actually be who we are called, chosen and commissioned, as HIS PEOPLE, to be. LET IT SPRING UP LORD!  For nothing less will be acceptable in these last days!  LET IT SPRING UP!

 

Then the WORD of the LORD says, “Do you perceive it?”  HE didn’t ask us if our neighbor believed us. HE didn’t ask us if we believed our neighbor. HE didn’t ask us what they thought about it. HE didn’t ask us if they were real for GOD. HE didn’t ask us for our judgment, nor theirs. HE simply asked – DO YOU PERCEIVE IT?  Do you perceive your own miracle springing forth? Do you perceive your own blessings manifesting from the LORD?  Do you perceive your own healing? Do you perceive your own deliverance? Do you perceive that GOD has forgiven you and thrown your mess into the Sea of Forgetfulness, even if man is doubtful, do “YOU” perceive it?  Do you believe that NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU SHALL EVER PROSER? Do you perceive that there is POWER FOR THE FAINT?  Do you perceive WISDOM, GUIDANCE AND DIRECTION FROM THE LORD?  Do you perceive A NEW THING IN GOD?

 

GOD says, I don’t care what you’ve done in your past.  I don’t care what kind of family you’ve come from. I don’t care what they have labeled you as. I don’t care about your failures and your mishaps.  I don’t care about a lack of past faith.  I don’t care what mark you’ve missed in the past.  I don’t care what the self righteous church folks say about you. I SAY, I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.  For every area of err, I have made correction. For every crooked path you have taken, I have made your paths straight. For every tongue that has judged you, I have judged them. And for every door that has been closed in your face, I have opened a new door for new life, for new things, for new blessings, for new healing, for new deliverance for this new year, because I have declared a NEW THING IN YOU!  Desert land will not drought you out. Wasteland will not take you under, for I have already gone before you and prepared a place for you!  And in my going before you, I MADE THE WAY declares the LORD of hosts!

 

So you can choose mess or you can choose GOD.  But know that this day, the choice is yours and know that GOD IS FOR YOU!!!!  Stay in HIS Will. HE is for you! GOD loves you and HIS WILL IS THAT YOU PROSPER IN HIM.  Stay the course. Stay in GOD. Stay in HIS ARK OF SAFETY. DWELL IN HIS SECRET PLACE OF THE MOST HIGH GOD. BELIEVE, BELIEVE, BELIEVE!  BELIEVE GOD!!!!!!!!!!!  And know that there is double increase in blessings with your name on it! Know that in 2010, you win!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

GOD loves you Encourager For Christ / New Life Family.  We thank GOD for each of you. We love you and we love you again.

 

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”- 2 Corinthians 5:17

 

Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc. 

 

 

What Talents Do You Have?

Matthew 25 (Amplified Bible)

Matthew 25:13-29

    ¹³Watch therefore [give strict attention and be cautious and active], for you know neither the day nor the hour when the Son of Man will come.

    ¹⁴For it is like a man who was about to take a long journey, and he called his servants together and entrusted them with his property.

    ¹⁵To one he gave five talents [probably about $5,000], to another two, to another one--to each in proportion to his own ^[a]personal ability. Then he departed and left the country.

    ¹⁶He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he gained five talents more.

    ¹⁷And likewise he who had received the two talents--he also gained two talents more.

    ¹⁸But he who had received the one talent went and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master's money.

    ¹⁹Now after a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them.

    ²⁰And he who had received the five talents came and brought him five more, saying, Master, you entrusted to me five talents; see, here I have gained five talents more.

    ²¹His master said to him, Well done, you upright (honorable, ^[b]admirable) and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the ^[c]blessedness) which your master enjoys.

    ²²And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, Master, you entrusted two talents to me; here I have gained two talents more.

    ²³His master said to him, Well done, you upright (honorable, ^[d]admirable) and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the ^[e]blessedness) which your master enjoys.

    ²⁴He who had received one talent also came forward, saying, Master, I knew you to be a harsh and hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you had not winnowed [the grain].

    ²⁵So I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is your own.

    ²⁶But his master answered him, You wicked and lazy and idle servant! Did you indeed know that I reap where I have not sowed and gather [grain] where I have not winnowed?

    ²⁷Then you should have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received what was my own with interest.

    ²⁸So take the talent away from him and give it to the one who has the ten talents.

    ²⁹For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will be ^[f]furnished richly so that he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have will be taken away.

In this passage of Matthew the 25^th chapter, there are some interesting metaphors given.  First, the story of the 10 virgins describes how the lack of wisdom and proper investments can be costly in life. But then, Jesus goes into describing those who were given talents by the master. And He describes how those who sowed their talents had their talents multiplied.  But then there was the one who hid his talent and had nothing multiplied to offer.  The master called him wicked and lazy.

First, let me say that I don’t really do the prosperity preaching, but if it is the Word of God, then it is true.  This passage was laid heavily in my spirit on this morning as I was preparing for service.  And the Lord shared with me how many of us have multiple talents that we are burying in the ground.  So many people are hurting with the harsh economy.  But there are natural resources that we are greatly ignoring. With technology making everything so convenient, we seem to despise more and more the old time way of doing things.  And I have nothing against technology, as I teach technology.  However, there is something to be said about the natural resources of this life.  God put them in place for a purpose and it is up to us to use them or bury them.

So this raises the question that I have for all you, Encourager For Christ Family Members…. What talents do you have that you are not using?  What is it that you can do, but simply find it menial and so you toss it to the side?  What gifts do you have but refuse to unfold?  What is it that you can do, even in a seasonal time, to offset certain expenses in your home?  What is it that you can do to help yourself and your family, yet you refuse?  Is it that you have buried your gift out of lack of time?  Is it that you have buried your gift out of lack of priority?  Or is it that you have buried your gift because of what others may say?

Let me be the first to inform you that you are wrong.  If you have a talent, use it.  If that talent is for the church, use it in church.  If that talent is something that you can do to improve your way of living, use that talent.  The better condition you are in personally, the better condition you will be in for the Kingdom.  Did you ever consider that?

Let me also encourage you to NOT allow what others say or think cause you to bury your talent.  I have had sooooooo many people question what GOD has given me. Then, when they see it in action, they rave about how good the LORD is in my life.  But what if I had actually listened to them?  What if I bothered to listen to the family members who questioned me when I first accepted my calling? Souls assigned to my hand would be lost. What if I listened to the nay sayers who told me that The Encourager was not going to go anywhere?  Almost eight years and almost 300 national prayer partners later, the LORD has proven them wrong.  What if I was simple enough to worry about those who question why it is that I bake for money during the holidays?  They can say what they want, but my product is in high demand, & it’s really, really good. And when Christmas is over, as a single mother, I appreciate not having the credit card bills & other debt to carry into the New Year.  So laugh now, because you may need me later.

Thought…. The elders before us seemed to have survived off of a lot less & yet have excess to lend the younger generation.  Why is this?  It’s because they used what they had.  They did not allow pride to set in the way.  My deceased grandfather was a hard working man. He kept two and three jobs all of his life. They were the first black family in our area to get a swimming pool.  And yet, people still don’t understand that you can have what he had if you work for it. Robbing and thieving is not the answer.  Lying and stealing is a sure way to hell.  And cut the get rich quick schemes, too.  They don’t work.  But using the talents that GOD has given you is a sure way to a life that is pleasing unto GOD.  He gave you those talents for a reason.  Use them and as you go, you will discover new ones.  That’s the multiplying of the talent. 

Stop worrying about people and be concerned with what you will hear from HIM on judgment day.  I want to hear, “well done thy good and faithful servant.”  How about you? 

The economy is bad, but my Father is good.  And everything that He does is good and very good.  He has the keys to what you need. He has placed those keys in your hand.  Did you use them to unlock the door of supply or did you bury them?

Life is not doom and gloom for the believer.  You have a future.  For the Lord says, “"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11

God bless you.  We love you and we love you again.

Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

 

"Lets Get Busy-It's Time to Build"

Ecclesiastes 9:10-12

 

We all (the believers) have something that we can do to build the kingdom of God. Its not just the pastors or the evangelists job but if you are born again and Holy Ghost filled, you have a part to play in letting someone know that Jesus died for them too. Some of us will never preach from a man made platform but it does not mean that you can't spread God's word. When was the last time you shared the gospel with someone? When was the last time you encouraged a family member or a friend with compassion and love? It's time we get busy building each other up.

While building the kingdom of God he wants our best and our full, complete dedication and service. Some of you might say, "well I usher on the usher board and I sing in the choir and I teach Sunday school." There is nothing wrong with doing those things but are you doing it with all of your might and are you doing enough? Some of us have been ushering and singing too long and God is trying to push you to the next level but you are afraid to step out on God's words.

In Ecclesiastes 9:10(KJV)the bible says, "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest." So this lets us know that we don't need to wait for a platform or for someone to ask you to do something and you cant wait too long to decide if you are going to work for God because this work cant be done once you are in the grave. According to Romans 12:6-11 , we all should be abiding in our callings and doing it in harmony and love and putting someone else before yourself.

If you know that you have not been doing the work of God with your whole heart or have not even started, you can start today. We are God's special agents and if we don't get the job done then we can't build God's kingdom. There is a whole world out there needs to be saved. Its not about who has the most gifts and talents or the biggest church. Ecclesiastes 9:11 verse says it best, " ...The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned;but time and chance happen to them all. God has a plan for you, you and you. It doesn't matter who finishes first. The question is did you finish well and was God pleased with your works?

So I ask the question, what's in your hand?

Does it seem insignificant? Tell that to Sampson. God wants to use small things.

Does it seem hard to share? Tell that to the widow. Little is much when God is in it.

Does it seem hard to let go of? Tell that to Hannah. That which we cling to was never ours.

Does the world ridicule what God has given you? Tell that to David. Your sling shot will defeat giants.

Does it seem painful? Tell that to Jesus. God will use your pain to perfect.

"It's not whats in your hand, its what you let God do with it!"


God bless and stay encouraged

Evangelist Termetri Jackson
Co-founder of Shake The Nations Ministries. Orlando Fl.

 

 

Count It All Joy 

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.  Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. “  James 1:2

Should we consider it joy when we are being talked about and treated unfairly?  Is it really time to rejoice when our family seems to be falling apart because of a troubled child or bleak marriage?  Are we really expected to be full of joy when we lose our jobs, or receive a negative diagnosis from our doctors?  Well, the simple answer is, YES! 

Storms are inevitable in our walk with Christ.  James does not say if you face trials, he says, whenever you face them.  As Christians, it’s part of what we signed up for.  Think about it, as long as we live in sin, Satan has no need to waste his energy derailing us because we’re not a threat to him.  As soon as we accept Jesus as our Savior and dedicate our lives to following Christ, we immediately become upgraded to a threat and trials, temptations, and tests are thrown at us to get us off track.  Storms can even arise when we are doing everything we know to do and are walking in God’s will. 

The good news is that these storms, tests, and trials carry a divine purpose!  When we were in school, tests were designed to show our teachers how much we have learned in a particular area.  Spiritual tests reveal how genuine and true our faith is.  Not only that, but they are also used to fully develop something that is lacking, or not present in us.  This is what we should be rejoicing in!  When the Lord brings us through the situation, we are going to be mature, complete, stronger, and have a deeper trust in God!  Romans 5:3 tells us  “…we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”  We have to thank God for these opportunities to grow and deal with them in HIS strength, not our own.  We already know that He will never leave or forsake us, so the next time you face a trial of some kind, have a positive outlook and allow God to use the situation to make you more like Jesus!

Remember:  God chooses what we go through, we choose how we go through it!

Sis. Jamila Bolden McGinnis

 

 

 

PRAY WITHOUT CEASING....

 

I had the privilege of speaking at the Annual Women’s Day Conference for Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church on last Sunday and I have decided to share the transcripts from that message with you.  As always, I pray that you and yours be blessed.

 

Let us look to the Word….

 

“Pray Without Ceasing”

 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (King James Version)

 

(16) Rejoice evermore.

(17) Pray without ceasing.

(18) In every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

 

Ø   When we look at the text, the author is the Apostle Paul and Paul was speaking here to the church at Thessalonica. But not only was he encouraging this church, but also believers everywhere.

 

Ø   While encouraging the church, Paul also had some things to clear up with them. You see, they were confused about the resurrection and the second coming of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. But Paul wrote a letter to them to clear up their misconceptions.

 

Ø   And it’s really no different in the church today. People are often confused about the things of God. And we know that God is not the author of confusion.  Many times you can be going on doing a wonderful job in the Lord and then all of a sudden an issue hits.  How do you handle the daily issues of life and yet prevail in the Lord?

 

Ø   That leads me to the theme of this service, “Women Prevailing In Prayer.”

  

Ø   Often times, people who are saved will have an audience. You may not even know that you have one. But people are watching you. And whether they are watching you for the right reason, to see how a Christian should act, or for the wrong reason, to prompt a set-up for your fall, none the less, they are watching you.  And I’m not so much concerned about the imps today, because if we take heed to the Word of God, we will see how to walk in our victory over the enemy.

 

Ø   But the ones who really want to know the Lord and are thirsty for what real Christianity is all about à let me come and get you on this in the Word.

 

Ø   Many times, people think that it’s what you wear and your status in the church that keeps you prevailing. But to the contrary, not so at all. You can dress up anything, but that still doesn’t mean much at all.  There are a lot of costumes in church.  People dressed up like Christians, but really are something else on the inside.  It’s not the attire or status on a committee that saves you.  You see, it’s the heart that God is really after.

 

Ø    Looking at the theme, “Women Prevailing In Prayer”, women, being female servants or female Christians.

 

Ø   Prevailing In, meaning to overcome, to be triumphant over, to have victory over something over and over again.

 

Ø   Prayer, being your line of communication with God.

 

Ø   In order to prevail in prayer, you have got to be triumphant in your daily walk with God. You have got to be victorious in your prayer life, not just one time, but over and over and over again.

 

Ø    So how do we get to this point?  The Apostle Paul gives us the answer in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, where he says, “Pray without ceasing.”  That’s means praying  over and over and over again. Not necessarily the same prayer, but a consistent life in prayer.

 

Ø   Let’s look back and grab verse 16 first. 

 

Ø   In verse 16, Paul says, “Rejoice evermore.”  This statement brings two things. One, that our attitude has to be one of thanksgiving and gratefulness and expectancy. David said it best when he said enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him and bless His Name. For the Lord is good ; His mercy is everlasting and His truth endureth to all generations.  (Psalm 100:4-5)

 

Ø   I can rejoice in the day ahead, because the Lord’s truth endures on me and my whole family, to all generations.  I don’t have to have a bad attitude, because things aren’t going my way, but rather an attitude of gratitude for what I do have and for what is to come.  That’s your expectancy.

 

ØFor I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (Jeremiah 29:11)

  

Ø  When you have an expected end in God, it sets the tone for your ability to rejoice in Him.

 

Ø  Which brings the second point of this verse, that you can rejoice in advance, because if you are in Christ Jesus, you know what your end is going to be.

 

Ø   Now, in the second verse of our text for today, verse 17, Paul says, “Pray without ceasing.”  Here, Paul is not really saying don’t do anything all day long but pray.  But rather that in all that we have to do in a run of a day, do it prayerfully. Pray consistently. Pray over and over and over again. Pray while in your home, pray while on the job, pray while in the church, pray while on the road, pray, while walking through Wal-Mart or the mall. Pray at all times in all things.

 

Ø   Prayer is your communication with God.  Jesus prayed often. He prayed for Himself, for His disciples and for all believers. He even prayed for His enemies. “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

 

Ø   Your prayer life at home or in private, which can be long and drawn out should never cease, but rather get better. But by the same token, you should also have short prayers of meditation throughout the day to help guide you in all that you do. That’s what Paul is saying here.  That’s why we pray over and over and over again. That’s what makes us triumphant over the enemy. That our communion with God is rendered over and over and over again; that we practice our prevailing in prayer by talking to God all the time.

 

Ø   And while there’s nothing wrong with a long prayer, as long as it’s from the heart, people have often been confused that this is the only way to pray. You can pray a short prayer of meditation and get the same results. What meditates in your heart, remember, is what God is after.

 

Ø   There was a woman by the name of Rhoda in Acts 12.  Rhoda had a heart for God and she had a heart for Peter.  While Peter was in prison, the believers often gathered together to pray for Peter. Rhoda was not one in the circle praying aloud, but rather in a corner, filled with tears and a heavy heart, praying silently for him. And when he returned unto the people, she was the first to believe that it was him. She ran to the door and found that it was him. She was so excited that she left him outside the door to tell the others who it was. They didn’t believe her, they thought it must have been his ghost. But she was insistent that it was him. And when they opened the door, there Peter was.

 

Ø   You have to pray in faith, with an expectancy from God. And you have to watch as well as pray.

 

Ø   Praying aloud is good, but praying silently is good also. For it’s not in your loudness or your length of prayer, but it’s really in your meditation and faith in God.

 

Ø  The bible declares that the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James 5:16b) 

 

Ø   This brings me to our last verse, verse 18.  Here Paul tells the church, “ In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 

Ø  In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”  

 

Ø  Now, this verse usually messes folks up if they don’t have the true revelation behind it. Paul is not saying that no matter what happens to you or what comes your way that you should rejoice in the evil that comes against you. God does not bring evil to us, therefore, He does not expect or desire for us to rejoice in evil. But what God wants is when we experience evil in our lives, that thing that comes to kill, steal and destroy, that we rejoice in Him for an expected end during that trial. In other words, come whatever may, give thanks unto God, because He’s got your back!

 

o   You need healing, the Lord says, I have stripes for that.

 

o   You need saving, the Lord says, I shed blood for that.

 

o   You want to be kept, the Lord says, I’m the comforter for that.

 

o   You need direction, the Lord says, I’m the way for that.

 

Ø   Whatever you need, God’s got it. So therefore, Paul says REJOICE!

 

Ø   They talked about you, guess what à they talked about Jesus. REJOICE.

 

Ø   They lied on you, guess what à they lied on Jesus. Somebody REJOICE.

 

Ø   They trying to set you up, guess what à they followed Jesus, spied on Him and tried to set Him up too. REJOICE.

 

Ø    You got sometimey friends & family members, guess what à the disciples didn’t always believe, denied who they were during persecution (Peter) and Judas straight up plotted against the Lord. REJOICE.

 

Ø    Everything that we experience, Jesus Himself has already walked through it.

 

Ø    Take your burdens to the Lord in prayer.  That’s how you really prevail.

 

Ø   (The message was then closed out by my delivering a part of my testimony & then prayer one with another -->  intercessory  prayer).

 

God Bless You Richly,

Pastor Velvea Brown

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

(~an outreach for God’s people~)

 

 

 

 

Pray, Love, Be Hospitable, and Serve...

 

A couple of weeks ago, I was asked to give the scriptural exhortation during a Women's Day service at my church... I just thought I would share with those that may want to read it...

1 Peter 4:7-11 (KJV)

7But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
9Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
10As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

In these days and times, we are bombarded with messages of desperation and hopelessness. We constantly hear reports of layoffs, environmental issues, serious illnesses, war, crime, and the erosion of morals and values. This portion of scripture is a message to the church. A charge, if you will, to show us, not so much what to DO in these end times, but more so, how we should BE.

1 Peter 4:7 tells us to be sober, which means to have a clear mind and a calm and collected spirit so that we can pray. We have to cast aside our Blackberry’s, iPhones, schedules, laptops, worries, and fears so that we are able to effectively communicate with God. We also are challenged to love each other deeply because love covers a multitude of sins. When there is sin, we have to act upon it properly by caring and quickly forgiving. This act maintains the health of our family.

In addition to that, we are to offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. In other words, we need to be as much of a help to others as possible, and stop trying to find reasons why we CAN’T do something. If in these days we are not able to find comfort in the church, then where? Remember, many people in the world are looking for a haven; it lies within you.

The fourth ingredient that must be a constant part of our lives is service. Each of us should use whatever gift we have received, faithfully administering God’s grace in various forms. If anyone speaks, it should be done as one speaking the very words of God. Those who serve should do so with the strength God provides. Everyone MUST serve. Every gift needed to do the work He wants done is already here. We must pray and work in unity.

So, when we are obedient to His word, what is the result? God is glorified! And THIS is our calling- to bring praise and glory to God. When we operate the way God wants us to, we are effective, attractive to the community, and fulfilled in our personal lives.

So therefore I implore you in these last days to: Pray constantly, Love deeply, Be hospitable, and Serve joyously.

Be Blessed!!

 

Sis. Jamila Bolden McGinnis

 

 

Praise the Lord Encourager Family.  This is part seven of our series entitled, “Equipped For New Life.”  I pray that all is well with you and yours.  

 

As always, we thank you all for your continual support toward this ministry.  Let the Word of God bless you.

 

Equipped For New Life – Part 7

Ephesians 6:10-18

 

For this week, we are looking at verse 18.  Once again, let’s look to the Word of God.

 

Ephesians 6:10-18

New King James Version

New Living Translation

10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we[a] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.  13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.[b] 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.[c] 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.[d]     Footnotes: Ephesians 6:12 Some manuscripts read you. Ephesians 6:15 Or For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God. Ephesians 6:16 Greek the evil one. Ephesians 6:18 Greek all of God’s holy people.

 

 

Verse 18 states:

 

“Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”

 

In this particular verse, Paul deals with how it is important for us to always pray. Prayer and supplication are an important part of the believer’s life.  Prayer is how we communicate with God, for whatever the reason. Supplication is the asking for God’s help.  And there’s an old saying that states, ‘much prayer, much power, little prayer, little power, no prayer, no power.’  We cannot make it in this race by ourselves.  We must lean and depend on the Lord for help, strength and guidance all the way.  We have the victory in spiritual warfare, but not without the Lord’s help. That’s why we must pray.

 

Another vital factor is your faith.  How you accept the presence of God in your worship experience and in your life will determine your level of faith. If you have never experienced the presence of God, then you are not able to relate to what I am saying. But if you experience His presence as a part of your Christian walk, then you understand why faith is important.  It’s more than speaking in tongues. And while I greatly appreciate and do practice spiritual gifts, it’s simply about His presence. The gifts have their place, but you can’t really use them properly without His presence. It’s the anointing that destroys the yoke. So having His presence AND receiving His power are very vital.

 

Paul says stay alert and be persistent. In other words, be discerning and totally sold out for God. During warfare, you must be discerning at all times. There are no exceptions. If you are going to pray for other believers, as stated in the latter part of this verse, then you need to be able to discern what is going on. You need to know how to intercede.  I don’t mean get into folks business and be a busy body. I mean discern in the Spirit and know how to intercede in prayer for those who are in warfare, as well as for yourself.  I like the way that Precepts has outlined the types of prayer for warfare.  We need to be able to minister according to the need, not by title, but by intercession.  We need to be able to discern in the Spirit the need for commitment, dedication, intercession, supplication, protection, thanksgiving, & guidance.  But if you are in a Five Fold Ministry, then you will also operate more in spiritual gifts and you will be able to pray for healing, deliverance, etc.

 

But the bottom line here as we close out this passage of scripture is know how to pray, be discerning and alert at all times and pray for believers everywhere.

 

I do hope and pray that this series has been a blessing to you & yours. We appreciate the encouragement & testimonies.  Do keep them coming.  Please remember to remain prayerful for this ministry and all connected to it.

 

We thank you.  And we love you, and we love you again.

 

Yours In Christ,
Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

Praise the Lord Encourager Family.  This is part six of our series entitled, “Equipped For New Life.”  I pray that all is well with you and yours.  Let the Word of God bless you.

 

As always, we thank you all for your continual support toward this ministry.

 

Equipped For New Life – Part 6

Ephesians 6:10-18

For this week, we are looking at verse 17.  Once again, let’s look to the Word of God.

 

Ephesians 6:10-18

New King James Version

New Living Translation

10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we[a] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.  13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.[b] 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.[c] 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.[d]     Footnotes: Ephesians 6:12 Some manuscripts read you. Ephesians 6:15 Or For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God. Ephesians 6:16 Greek the evil one. Ephesians 6:18 Greek all of God’s holy people.

 

 

Verse 17 states:

¹⁷ Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

 

The first part of this verse deals with the helmet.  The helmet is a piece of armor worn in spiritual warfare to cover the head. The head is where all manner of thinking or intellect takes place.  Here it is where if you can be most damaged spiritually if your covering is not on.  Why you ask? Because for one, you can be easily mislead, misinformed or misguided if your helmet is not on. That’s why we need to line everything up with the Word of God. If it does not line up with the Word, then we need to dismiss it. Our thoughts and most inner being are important, because He says that He will keep you in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him. If your mind is not stayed on or focused on God, then on where/what/whom is it focused?  An idle mind is the enemy’s playground. That’s why you need to be renewed in your mind, that you may prove what is that good, acceptable & perfect Will of God.  How can you know what His will is if you do not focus on pleasing Him AND studying His Word?  When we have no Word to stand on, then it is easy for us to fall for anything. That’s why some become naysayers. They have no armor. What you say is foreign to them. And if you continue to dwell amongst them, you can lose your armor and be misled by them. Stay in the Word of God.  Keep your armor on, which is to keep your focus on the Lord. This will keep you from being mislead into all types of mischief, which will ultimately lead you to hell.

 

The latter part of this verse deals with taking on the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.  The Sword of the Spirit in this verse means, the sword which the Spirit provides. This is important, because you need to know that you must have the Holy Spirit in order to fully receive what you need in the Word. For it is written that the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life.  Studying the letter with no understanding is dangerous. You must be able to have the proper understanding of the Word of God. He gives that understanding through His Holy Spirit. All of this is a part of the armor.  If you are trying to line something up with the Word, but have no understanding, then your helmet is not stable. You need for your helmet to be on tight and strapped with no chance of coming lose. This is through the Word of God and divine revelation of His Word.

 

If you are biking and you do not fasten your helmet and you fall, your helmet is coming off and you may have some life threatening injuries, depending on the fall. By the same token, if you are trying to live for God and your spiritual helmet is not on, then you can get beat up by the enemy. BUT, if you have your helmet on tight and you have your sword, then you can stand in the time of trouble. You can withstand the mess that the enemy will bring your way. You can deal with them talking about you and making fun of you, because God has chosen you.  You can deal with the back stabbers who want to see you fall, so that they can laugh at you, because they really want your place. You can deal with the ones in your face and yet they dwell in the enemy’s camp. You can handle it when your sword and your helmet are properly in place. But when something is missing, then you are allowing yourself to be open to the enemy’s attacks. But when everything is on right and tight, then they can bring it. Because even though the messy one will attack, the Bible declares that NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST ME SHALL PROSPER. YOU WILL KNOW THAT IT WON’T WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Stay tuned, because in a few more days, we’re going to be in verse 18.  Come back again with all of your whole armor on!

 

We love you and we love you again.

 

Yours In Christ,
Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

Praise the Lord Encourager Family.  This is part five of our series entitled, “Equipped For New Life.”  I pray that all is well with you and yours.  Let the Word of God bless you.

 

As always, we thank you all for your continual support toward this ministry.

 

Equipped For New Life – Part 5

Ephesians 6:10-18

 

For this week, we are looking at verse 16.  Once again, let’s look to the Word of God.

 

Ephesians 6:10-18

New King James Version

New Living Translation

10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we[a] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.  13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.[b] 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.[c] 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.[d]     Footnotes: Ephesians 6:12 Some manuscripts read you. Ephesians 6:15 Or For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God. Ephesians 6:16 Greek the evil one. Ephesians 6:18 Greek all of God’s holy people.

 

 

Verse 16 states:

¹⁶ In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.^[c

 

Verse 16 is a precept to verses 13-15. But keep in mind that this is a series, so we may break context. Verse 16 points out that your faith in the Word of God quenches every fiery dart of the enemy.  There are many darts being thrown in the land. There’s poverty, sickness, disease, foreclosure, suicide, abuse of all kinds, etc. But only the Word of God is able to quench such things. No matter what dart the enemy throws your way, stay in the Word of God and BELIEVE GOD. There are all kinds of distractions to get the believer off course. But stay the course. Finish until the end.  And you can only do so with your armor on.

 

You must understand that attacks can come in many forms. It can be mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, etc. An attack can be anything from a distraction of an individual sent into your life to distract you from your purpose, to a situation that can be tragic and cause you to want to give up. But no matter what happens, you must believe that NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST ME SHALL PROSPER, IT WON’T WORK.  You have to believe this for yourself. You have to know the protection of God over your own life and over your house. You have to put faith into action and call on the Lord in a time of trouble and in a time of despair.

 

There are many other devices out there, such as self help books, etc. to give one the dilution of being able to do it all on their own. But such devices are fiery arrows of the enemy that cause you to doubt the Word of God and believe in something that has no standing against the evil one.  But when you believe on the Word of God, your weapon is not only fire proof, but IT WORKS!

 

God told Abraham, “I am thy shield” in Genesis 15:1. And being that we are the seed of Abraham, that shield still holds firm for us, too, if we believe.  Your faith will take you through a lot of storms in life.  Your faith will keep you firm in the Word of God. Your faith will cause you to believe when no one else believes. Your faith will cause you to recognize the devices of the enemy. Your faith will not allow you to give up on God, no matter what man says or does. Your faith will cause you to stay in the Will of God. Your faith will release blessings time and time again in your life, in spite of what may be going on around you.

 

What you believe will determine a lot in your life. Hold up the shield of faith in God and be encouraged in the Lord, for HE is your deliverer. And it is through HIM that we have already won the battle and the war.

 

Stay tuned, because in a few more days, we’re going to be in verse 17.  Come back again with all of your whole armor on!

 

We love you and we love you again.

 

Yours In Christ,
Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

Praise the Lord Encourager Family.  This is part four of our series entitled, “Equipped For New Life.”  I pray that you all had a safe and wonderful July 4^th holiday.  And we thank you all for your continual support toward this ministry.

 

Equipped For New Life – Part 4

Ephesians 6:10-18

 

For this week, we are looking at verses 14-15.  Once again, let’s look to the Word of God.

 

Ephesians 6:10-18

New King James Version

New Living Translation

10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we[a] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.  13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.[b] 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.[c] 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.[d]     Footnotes: Ephesians 6:12 Some manuscripts read you. Ephesians 6:15 Or For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God. Ephesians 6:16 Greek the evil one. Ephesians 6:18 Greek all of God’s holy people.

 

 

Verses 14-15 state:

 

¹⁴ Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. ¹⁵ For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.^[b]

 

Verse 14 points out quite a few things here about doing battle. First of all, Paul says to stand your ground. How many times have believers been swayed, because they could not stand their ground? Remember, this is spiritual warfare, so every tactic that the enemy can try, he will. But you as a believer must be able to stand your ground. Further, you must be able to put on your belt. In the original interpretation, the belt that is referenced here is one that is tied around the waste, allowing one to be battle ready for a quick defense. How many times has one slipped and missed God, because they were not battle ready? How many ministries have been compromised, because one was not battle ready? How many souls have been lost due to one not being battle ready? The belt is not just any belt. It is a belt of truth. This means your belt is one of the Gospel of Jesus Christ or the Word of God. So, if you have the Word of God to hold everything up, you are then battle ready. But if you rely on anything else, you cannot win.

 

Further, the body of armor here is dealt with as the armor of God’s righteousness.  Walking in integrity is one of the hardest things for some people to do, because they do not clearly understand what that means. If every skirt or suit turns your head, then how can you effectively do ministry?  If you are focused on your flesh, rather than spiritual things, then at some point, you will lose your integrity. And this is something that we as believers need to ask ourselves over and over again. Do I have my integrity? Not just in a matter of sexual malice, but in all things. In the way that I treat others, in the way that I present myself, in the way that I represent my God, does my integrity show up? Or does my flesh? Remember, we are talking about spiritual warfare. And wherever my armor is not on or tightly secured, is the area of my weakness. And that’s the area that the enemy will try to play with. That’s why it is so important to have on the whole armor of God at all times. And this armor of God’s righteousness is one of justification. When your armor is an armor of justification, this means that you have peace with God through Jesus Christ and you represent holiness. Therefore, you must be careful to separate yourself from all sin and misleading activities, for those are the trick of the enemy.

 

Then in verse 15, Paul says “For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. “  How sweet are the feet of them that preach the gospel. In this particular verse, understand that the Good News here is the Gospel, which is the power, the instrument and the weapon that God has given to the believer to face the enemy directly! This same Gospel is used to lead lost souls back to God. Further, this same Gospel is also used tear down the enemy’s camp. The Gospel is peace, but that same Gospel is also power! And it is that same Gospel that grants faith in God. And we know that faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.

 

And in the latter part of verse 15, Paul is saying take all of this, so that you are fully prepared. Paul is saying you must be prepared to do battle at all times. You must be mentally, physically and spiritually ready to do battle at all times. You cannot get caught slipping. You must keep your mind on God. You cannot afford to get side tracked by anything or anyone. You MUST BE READY to do battle. This same term prepared, once again, brings us back to the note of being battle ready. This is the point that Paul is trying to make. Be battle ready. For there are numerable things that desire to temp you and take you away from your purpose. BUT GOD! If you are battle ready, then you SHALL defeat the enemy every time.

 

Stay tuned, because in a few more days, we’re going to be in verse 16.  Come back again with all of your whole armor on!

 

We love you and we love you again.

 

Yours In Christ,
Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

Praise the Lord Encourager Family.  We are now on part three of the series entitled, “Equipped For New Life.”  I thank you all for continuing to be a part of the Encourager For Christ Family.  I hope that all of the fathers had a wonderful Father’s Day.

 

Equipped For New Life – Part 3

Ephesians 6:10-18

 

For this week, we are looking at verses 12-13.  Once again, let’s look to the Word of God.

 

Ephesians 6:10-18

New King James Version

New Living Translation

10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we[a] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.  13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.[b] 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.[c] 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.[d]     Footnotes: Ephesians 6:12 Some manuscripts read you. Ephesians 6:15 Or For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God. Ephesians 6:16 Greek the evil one. Ephesians 6:18 Greek all of God’s holy people.

 

 

Verses 12-13 state:

            ¹¹“For we^[a] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”

¹³ Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.

 

Verse 12 points out a very important factor of life for the believer. Life is full of transitions.  And sometimes, we as believers are going to go through some things.  There are going to be some experiences that are all of less than pleasurable.  And yet, in our going through, we need to recognize with whom we are going through with, because you are not in this alone. Going through is a factor of life.  As a believer, you cannot hold your head down and begin to believe that you are not worthy of the betterment of life.  We may have to do battle to get to the next level.  But God is our buckler and our shield.  We have a Saviour.  And it is that same Saviour that sees us through our every battle in life.  It is Jesus Christ who walks us through the storms of life and takes us from glory to glory.  So don’t get overwhelmed with the fact that you are in a storm, but rather get overjoyed with the one who will bring you through that storm.  

We need to also recognize with whom we are fighting.  We know that this is spiritual warfare.  So, it’s important to know your enemy.  Your enemy is not operating in flesh and blood.  It’s not as simple as using your five senses.  You need spiritual discernment to recognize what is before you.  There are principalities and powers, which are hostile forces operating in the heavenly realms, that cause things to move against the Will of God.  But do not fret, because you must know that Jesus Christ has power and authority over them all. Those forces are subordinate to Him.  Then, there are rulers of darkness.  The easiest way to classify these beings would best be described in false religions, cults and false gods.  Third, there is spiritual wickedness in high places.  These forces operate to inflict and sustain evil amongst men.  They are dispatched in to various posts and points, simply to cause havoc and to destroy whatever is light.  That’s why you need to call the Angels of the Living God to take Their posts now in Jesus Name.

 

With these classifications, you MUST understand that GOD has power OVER ALL of them.  The believer is not defeated by these forces.  However, you may encounter them in your walk. But the encounter, as frustrating as it may be, is only a test.  YOU MUST KNOW that it is ONLY the POWER OF GOD that CAN AND WILL DEFEAT THEM ALL.  You must put on your armor and walk in JESUS NAME.  For it is only in the NAME OF JESUS CHRIST that you do HAVE THE VICTORY against these forces.

 

Verse 13 says, “Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.”  This verse simply confirms what was already stated above.  The only way to win against evil is to put on the whole armor of God.  When the enemy tries to bring an attack upon the believer, in an effort to dislodge the soul, spirit and body, the believer can withstand these things by being well equipped with the whole armor of God and will not be taken under.  But if you believe the lie, you will not stand.  You must rely on the Lord to fight your every battle.  It is only with the Lord’s power that you will win.  And if God be for you, who shall be against you?  Therefore, no matter what the weapon is, the bible declares that NO WEAPON formed against the believer shall prosper. IT WON’T WORK.  But, as a believer, you must have your armor on.  Be sure that you are fully equipped.

 

The enemy will try to attack in areas that can cause you to become tired, afraid, uncertain and discouraged. But the devil is a liar.  You are not the only one that God has allowed to endure these things.  You are not the only one that He will deliver.  Those feelings are natural.  But, you have to remember your faith.  You have to remember whom you serve.  You have to remember who is really in control.  You have to remember that those forces, although evil, are still subordinate to the Power of God.  You have to know that God will not place on the believer more than the believer is able to bear.  You have to know that your healing is yours.  You have to know that your deliverance is yours.  You have to know that your financial breakthrough is yours. You have to know that your children being saved is counted all joy.  You have to know that the crack in our communities is defeated.  You have to know that oppression will not be tolerated – it is defeated.  You have to know that families are being restored.  You have to know that your joy is still the joy of the Lord, which is your strength.  You have to know that in the end, GOD is going to get the VICTORY and that your testimony shall not be hindered, nor taken away. If you don’t know this, then you will be defeated.  But if YOU STAND on the WORD OF GOD with your WHOLE ARMOR ON, YOU WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

GOD IS ABLE to give VICTORY to anyone who stands fast to the end.

 

Stay tuned, because in a few more days, we’re going to be in verse 14.  Come back again with all of your whole armor on!

 

We love you and we love you again.

 

Yours In Christ,
Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

Equipped For New Life – Part 2

Ephesians 6:10-18

 

For this week, we are continuing a series on being “Equipped For New Life.”  The passage is from Ephesians 6:10-18.  This week, our focus is on verse 11.  Once again, let’s look to the Word of God.

 

Now you know that God has given us, as believers, strength and that this God given strength is what allows us to overcome the spiritual, moral, material economical and even political challenges of life.  We know that God created the spiritual and the secular worlds to serve His divine purpose.  We further understand the origin of God’s created order and that we were created in His image, to bring Him glory.  Therefore, the Christian life is a life of walking and living in the Spirit.  And in order to accomplish this, you have to solely (only) depend on God’s power as your source of help. 

 

Verse 11 states:

            ¹¹ “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.”

 

This is our focus for this week.  And this verse is simple.  In all that God has given us to overcome the challenges of life, we are not defeated.  And if you should decide that you can’t win, then you are not walking in the Spirit of God.  Thus, your choice puts you out of the Will of God.  Being an omniscient God, He knew that we would have to go through these things, at no point did He ever predestine that we would be conquered, but rather that we would be conquerors.  At no point did He ever predestine that we would be victims, but rather the victors, thus making us victorious.  This is important, because in order for you to walk according to God’s plan for your life, you’ve got to understand that everything that you need to overcome the challenges of life have already been given unto you.  And in verse 11, Paul says put it (your ability to overcome life’s challenges) on, so that you will be able to withstand and to overcome the plots of the devil.

 

This armor that Paul is talking about in verse 11 is your resource from God.  This is for you to use in order to wage war against the enemy and his camp.  This armor described how soldiers dressed in the Greco-Roman world.  This example is used to help you to relate spiritual warfare to that of natural warfare.  Every part of this armor has a specific purpose and each is important to your ability to properly warfare.  In the weeks to come, we will take a look at each and every part (that Paul uses only), as we continue to go verse by verse.

 

It’s also important to look at this passage verse by verse, because each piece of armor has a purpose. And although Paul only address the most important pieces of a soldier’s armor, every part is important for the believer. Nothing can be left out. Just the same way that you cannot go to work or school half dressed, you cannot warfare with only half of your armor.  For the enemy is always seeking to find a loophole of some sort to work through.  His plan is to kill, steal and destroy. So whatever part of your armor is missing is the part that he will use to try to destroy your testimony.  If you take off your helmet while playing in a football game, the opposition is going to try to hit you in the head and probably break your neck.  That’s how the enemy rolls.  If you take off one piece of your armor, he is going to try to attack in that area of your life.  That’s why it is important, as Paul has expressed, to put on the whole armor.  That way everything is covered.

 

And not only do you have to put it on, but you have to keep it on.  Putting on and keeping on the whole armor at all times is what allows the believer to withstand or warfare against the wiles of the devil.

 

Stay tuned, because in a few more days, we’re going to be in verse 12.  Come back again with all of your armor on!

 

We love you and we love you again.

 

Yours In Christ,
Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

 

Equipped For New Life – Part 1

Ephesians 6:10-18

 

For this week, we are starting a series on being “Equipped For New Life.”  The passage is from Ephesians 6:10-18.  And while this is an old familiar for a lot of you, God will always reveal something new.  While praying and studying in this series, we are only going to deal with one verse at a time.  Let’s look to the Word of God.

 

Ephesians 6:10-18

New King James Version

New Living Translation

10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.  17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we[a] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.  13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.[b] 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.[c] 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.[d]     Footnotes: Ephesians 6:12 Some manuscripts read you. Ephesians 6:15 Or For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God. Ephesians 6:16 Greek the evil one. Ephesians 6:18 Greek all of God’s holy people.

 

 

Today, we are going to just deal with verse 10 of the passage above (Ephesians 6:10-18).  The Apostle Paul is giving instructions here to the church at Ephesus, but this message is for all believers.  He starts out by saying as a final word, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  First of all, we have to understand that we are all fighting a battle.  And then, we have to recognize that God’s armor is what helps us win the battle.  But we also have to recognize what type of battle we are in.

 

We are not in a battle against flesh and blood, but rather a battle is warfare against the powers of the kingdom of darkness.  These unseen forces are attacks by the enemy and his imps.  They are set out to try to keep us from fulfilling our God given assignments.  They are set out to try to keep us from operating within our God given gifts, talents and abilities.  They are set in place to try to side track the people of God, in an effort to kill, steal and destroy.  But Paul says, “Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” 

 

The first part of this deals with the fact that God has given the believer strength.  And that God given strength is what allows us to overcome the spiritual, moral, material economical and even political challenges of life.  We have to understand that God created the spiritual and the secular world to serve His divine purpose.  We have to further understand the origin of God’s created order and that we were created in His image.  Therefore, the Christian life is a life of walking and living in the Spirit.  God is a spirit and they that worship Him, must worship Him in spirit and in truth.  This means that there will be forces that will try to come against your spiritual walk. This is known as spiritual warfare.  And you are at war, because your Spiritual walk glorifies God and the opposing forces have a desire to kill, steal and destroy it.  That’s why you need to walk in Peripateo, which in the Greek is defined as the Spirit-filled life of the believer, which empowers the believer to please God and overcome the enemy.  This is the strength that Paul is referring to when he says, “be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”  God is the source of all power.  So, if you’re walking in Him, spiritually according to His word, then you will have the power to overcome the enemy.

 

As a believer, you have to solely (only) depend on God’s power as your source of help.  It’s not self-help or girl power (ladies).  It’s simply the power of God.  And for the power of God, there is no substitution.  Modern documents will try to water down this truth, disillusioning one to think that the power is within your own capabilities. But what you must realize is that the capabilities within you were originated in you by God.  Therefore, if those capabilities are not ignited with the true source of power, then destruction shall surely come.  This is hard for some to swallow, because they fill like they can’t see the true source.  But do not be deceived.  Just as you are unable to see the true source with your natural eye, you are also unable to see the forces of darkness with your natural eye, which is what will allow you to be overtaken. That’s why you need to walk in the Spirit. Then, you can see both through your Spiritual eye and you can recognize which one is which and chose the right one – JESUS.

 

God’s will is good and it is perfect.  But the good and perfect plan for your life will not manifest unless you get in the Spirit and operate according to the divine plan, which is given in the Word of God.

 

We have all messed up somewhere along the way.  But now, we have a record that shows that God is able to deliver us.  Look at things in the Spirit and understand that the weapons of warfare are not carnal, they are spiritual.  While you may have messed up in the flesh, which did damage to your spiritual walk, the battle at hand is not really of flesh and blood – it’s still spiritual.  That’s where the believer has to be able to recognize both realms and identify both the spiritual and the natural.  Then once you have recognized and you have received your strength in the Lord and taken up the power of His might, then you are ready for the next step – Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

 

This is where will pick up next time in our series through the Encourager For Christ.  Come with your armor already on!

 

We love you and we love you again.

 

Yours In Christ,
Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

An Untiring Watch - My Help Comes From The Lord

 

Psalm 121 (New International Version)

 

A song of ascents.

 ¹ I lift up my eyes to the hills—
       where does my help come from?

 ² My help comes from the LORD,
       the Maker of heaven and earth.

 ³ He will not let your foot slip—
       he who watches over you will not slumber;

 ⁴ indeed, he who watches over Israel
       will neither slumber nor sleep.

 ⁵ The LORD watches over you—
       the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

 ⁶ the sun will not harm you by day,
       nor the moon by night.

 ⁷ The LORD will keep you from all harm—
       he will watch over your life;

 ⁸ the LORD will watch over your coming and going
       both now and forevermore.

 

This is a psalm of ascent, which lets me know that this is for those who are trying to rise above where they are.  It’s a psalm for those who desire to go higher in God.  The psalmist here is said to be anonymous, but some suggest that it may have been written by Hezekiah.

 

As I read through this psalm and meditate on it, I get the main point out of it – my help comes from the Lord.   And if you have been walking with God for any amount of time, then this is something that you should be able to relate to.  All of us have a testimony.  All of us who are saved have experienced God in some way.   And if you have received the Holy Ghost, then you have been delivered from something.

 

The psalmist goes on to describe how the Lord will not let your foot slip.  He who watches over you will neither slumber nor sleep.  He is your shade at your right hand – the side without a shield.  He will keep you during the day light hours and He will keep you throughout the night. 

 

The psalmist further describes that the Lord will keep you from all harm.  There are various types of harm that we as humans experience – spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional.  And yet, the Lord is not short on His protection in any of those areas.  He will keep you from ALL harm.  He will watch over your life.  That in itself is powerful.  When you look back over your life and consider the things that you have experienced thus far and consider how God has brought you out – that says a lot.  And consider also, that the best is yet to come – that is simply the awesomeness of God. 

 

The psalmist closes by declaring that the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.  This is what brings me to the point of understanding that God being God all by Himself, the maker of Heaven and of earth, the God of deliverance, He is a God of untiring watch.  If you think about it, over the years we have done some stuff.  We have been some places and we have done some things.  We have a current condition that says that we are not what we used to be – to God be the glory – but we still need God.  We can slip up and slip out and do all kinds of stuff.  And let’s not get on the self-righteous stuff.  But God.  In all that He sees – and yes, He sees all – he never gets tired of watching over His children.  He may become kindled over some of the stuff that you do.  And His chastisement you may earn.  But He never gets tired of watching over you.  That’s the kind of God that we serve.  That’s the kind of love that He has for His children.  If you have children and you consider their actions, some you like and some you don’t like.  And yet, you never get tired of watching over your children, because God gave them to you.  You may tell them to sit down somewhere sometimes, but you look for them to be in place and you look in love with an untiring watch.  That is the same love that God has for us.  He may have to deal with some things that we do, but yet His love is unfailing.  It is untiring. 

 

So the next time that you say that you are tired of putting up with stuff and putting up with folks, the next time that you feel like you are tired of serving God, the next time that you are tired of pressing your way - consider the untiring watch.  Consider that God never slumbers nor sleeps.  He is a God of an untiring watch.  He will never leave you, nor forsake you.  He will watch over your life with an untiring love.

 

God bless you richly.   We love you again and again.

 

Yours In Christ,
Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He Is Risen

Matthew 28

 

Happy Resurrection Sunday to all who believe. I bring you greetings in the Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I want to share with you some of the highlights from today’s sermon – He Is Risen.

 

 Today, we celebrate what the world calls ‘Easter’, but we as believers know it as ‘Resurrection Sunday’.  The pre-season begins with what we call Lent. Lent is the preparation for the Resurrection.  It is 40 days prior to the Resurrection. It begins with Ash Wednesday. And then we have Palm Sunday (the Sunday before Resurrection Sunday). Then, after Palm Sunday, we begin Holy Week or Passion Week. And then, there is Good Friday, which commemorates the death of Jesus Christ. And on the third day, is Resurrection Sunday. This is when Jesus arose from the grave with all power in Heaven and in earth. And about seven weeks later, there was what we know as Pentecost, when the Holy Ghost fell on the Apostles and other believers.

 

And that’s where we should be as believers, living in Pentecost – not as a denomination, but rather as a movement of faith.

 

So on today, in observance for what Jesus Christ has done, we want to specifically take a look at the Resurrection. How did it get to this point, and what does it mean for us today?

 

In order to understand why the resurrection was necessary, we have to go all the way back to the beginning with Adam and Eve. There is where sin stepped in. Eve began to conversate with the serpent and he persuaded her to partake of the fruit from the tree of good and evil, the tree in which God had specifically given instructions for them to not eat from. And so sin had to be judged and problems of the world there began. And then we later find Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. And then there came the Children of Israel. By now the law (the Pentateuch) is well in place and folks are still messing up. Later came Kings and Queens as leaders of God’s people. But sin is still riding. And while there were some along the way who were actually in good standing with God – none of them could do what Jesus did. That’s why we need a Savior.

 

So 42 generations later, Jesus steps on the scene. He comes as a baby in Mary’s womb, born in a manger, no room in the inn and no crib for His bed. He had very humble beginnings. He is raised by Mary and Joseph. And by the age of 12, we find Jesus teaching in the synagogue. He later takes on disciples and begins teaching the ways of the Father. He begins working miracles, healing and delivering the sick and the afflicted.

 

Pharisees and Sadducees are well after Him by now, because of His teachings. They were still stuck on the law, but He is teaching grace. He informs them that He has not come to destroy the law nor the prophet, but to fulfill.

 

But for them, that’s not good enough. They follow Him and they spy on Him. They call Him other names like prophet. Somebody even got slick out the mouth and said He was of beelzebub, calling Him a devil. The called Him a false prophet, an imposter. But through all of the foolishness, He kept on going that the Father would be glorified. And they challenged Him, but He kept on going, doing the will of the Father.

 

But what set everything off was when He raised Lazarus from the dead. Folks got nervous. They began to wonder and worry about their own position. They said that with that miracle, the people would surely believe and He would take over the Roman empire. So now, they increase their mission to crucify Him. But little did they know.

They put out a word that if anyone should see Him to show them where He was. For they were out kill both He and Lazarus.

 

So by this time, Jesus, knowing all things, He begins to prepare the disciples for what was to come. He even knew of the betrayal that was at hand. He passed the sop to Judas and told him, ‘that which you do, do it quickly’. He continued to prepare the disciples for what was at hand. He told them that He would send a Comforter – the Holy Ghost. He instructed them on how to go on, in spite of how they would be hated by the world.

 

This brings us to the point of betrayal, which would take place in the garden. The same high priest that was set in place that year, whose name was Caiaphas, had prophesied to the Jews leaders that one man would die for the Jews. It was Ciaphas father-in-law, Annas who they took Jesus before for judgment. There we find Pilate on the scene. He could have stopped the crucifixion, but he didn’t. But Pilate, although convicted that Jesus was found in no wrong, he went along with the Jewish leaders for fear of what man would do to him. In honor of the Passover, he gives Jesus over to the Jews.

Pilate begins scourging Jesus.  The soldiers platted a crown of thorns and placed it on His head. They had made him carry His cross. They begin to place a purple robe around Him, mocking Him.  They begin to physically assault Him. And they nailed his hands to the cross.

 

Then Pilate brings him again before the Jews, once again convicted, but still afraid of man. They all decide to crucify Him. Their reason is because they said that He broke the law, because He made Himself the Son of God. Pilate became afraid, but he still sided with the Jews. Pilate knew that this was wrong. And so much so, that he wrote on Jesus’ cross, ‘Jesus Christ of Nazareth, King of the Jews.’ He wrote this in three languages, Hebrew, Greek and Latin. He did so, because he knew that the people would come from in town to see Him. Caiaphas told Pilate that he was the King. And Pilate told him what’s written is written. So, the writing remained on the cross.

 

They took His garment and casted it for lots. This was allowed that the scripture might be fulfilled. And when He thirsted, they gave Him vinegar. He said,’ It is finished’ and He gave up the Ghost.

 

At this point, they wanted to take Jesus and the other two men off the crosses in honor of the Passover. They would traditionally break their legs to make sure that they were dead. The broke the other two men’s legs, but when they got to Jesus they decided that there was no need break His legs, because He was already dead. But there is always one on the scene to take things to next level. One of the soldiers pierced His side and blood and water came running out. All who were there bore witness of this.

 

At this point a ‘secret disciple’, also afraid of the Jews, asked Pilate for His body. Pilate granted it so the disciple and Nicodemus anointed His body with aloe and myrrh and wrapped Him in fine linen and they buried. Him. The Jews still being uncertain wanted a watch around His grave, because they said that He had stated that He would arise on the third day.

 

Now on the third day, after His death, He arose from the grave with all power in Heaven and in earth. An Angel of the Lord ascended with fine white linen and a face of lightening. He rolled back the stone and sat on it. The soldiers watching the grave became as dead men and did nothing. The Angel did this to show Mary Magdalene and all who visited His grave that there was no more than an empty tomb. He told them to spread the good news that Jesus was not amongst the dead, but was alive.  The watchmen, being afraid went to the Jewish counsel and told them what happened. The counsel told them to put out a word that His disciples had removed His body from the grave. They did this in hopes of the lie making it to the governor’s ear and watchmen not being killed. This same lie not only continues to circulate in the Jewish community today, but works against the naysayers as proof that Jesus Christ lives.

 

And even though His disciples did not stand up for Him, He loved them. So much so, that He visited them three times after the Resurrection, before He ascended into Heaven. He worked miracles amongst them, gave them further instructions and He breathed on them and filled them with the Holy Ghost. That’s true love.

 

In His instructions, we find The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). He says that ‘all power is given unto Me in Heaven and in earth’. If we are going to work for the Lord, we must understand that He is all power. ‘Go ye therefore’ – go everywhere, ‘and teach all nations’ – don’t leave anybody out. This could be next door or in the next country. Go tell all that Jesus Christ lives. ‘Go make more disciples by preaching, teaching and baptizing’ – each one is to reach one. ‘baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost’. Some people want to baptize in Jesus Name only, but the instructions are clear. Some do not want to baptize at all and that is also direct disobedience. While baptizing itself does not save it is very important. It symbolizes the death of sin and the beginning of new life. It symbolizes submission to Christ, that you are willing to live God’s way, according to the Scripture. And it also provided identification, or likeness, with God’s covenant people.

 

This particular part of the verse also deals with the Triune God, being three in one – the trinity. While the term trinity is not found in the bible, it is understood that the triune God is God in three persons – God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost. And this is what we know as the blessed trinity.

 

Further on, He says, ‘teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you’. Teach them to obey according to the word of God, not what you think is right, but according to His word. Healing and deliverance – this is also a part of whatsoever I have commanded you. He earlier instructs the disciples that those things which they saw Him do, they were to do. And I am convinced that this gets a lot of folks in the church in trouble, because folks are not being healed, not being delivered and not being set free, because somewhere along the way, the church got too sophisticated to continue working miracles in the Name of Jesus. But we’re still taking up offerings, building the edifice and taking titles and positions. For what? You’ve got to bring the whole truth. Speak peace. Speak healing, speak deliverance and speak freedom in deed in the Name of Jesus. Here is where you go forth in Jesus Name.

 

And in the latter part of The Great Commission, He says ‘and lo (surely), I am with you always, even until the end of the world.’ The disciples were hoping for a new physical king, but they go more than that. They got our Savior, King and Lord. He sent His Holy Spirit as He promised as a comforter and a reminder. We are to be reminded of the word of God and we are to know that He is with us.

 

Anytime that we are trying to carry out the will of the Father, the Holy Spirit is our help. Do you believe that God has called you to preach? That’s fine, but make sure that you have the Holy Ghost.

 

Is He calling you out of a world of sin? Just come to Him and give Him your heart. Learn of and take on His ways according His word. Don’t stop along the way because of a hang up. For He was hung up for our hang ups. But keep going to church, receiving the word. And He will fill you with the Holy Ghost. And after the Holy Ghost, you shall have power.

 

Is God telling you to forgive someone? Are you saying that this is too hard to do? Consider the disciples and how they betrayed Jesus. And yet He returned unto them, not once, but three times and their relationship grew even stronger. Forgive someone today and you shall also be forgiven.

God loves you, so much so that He gave His only begotten Son that whosever believeth on Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.

 

Live today for Jesus and know that He lives!!!

 

Yours In Christ.
Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ Ministries

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

Are You Thirsty?

 

Psalm 143

A psalm of David.

 ¹ O LORD, hear my prayer,
       listen to my cry for mercy;
       in your faithfulness and righteousness
       come to my relief.

 ² Do not bring your servant into judgment,
       for no one living is righteous before you.

 ³ The enemy pursues me,
       he crushes me to the ground;
       he makes me dwell in darkness
       like those long dead.

 ⁴ So my spirit grows faint within me;
       my heart within me is dismayed.

 ⁵ I remember the days of long ago;
       I meditate on all your works
       and consider what your hands have done.

 ⁶ I spread out my hands to you;
       my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
       Selah

 ⁷ Answer me quickly, O LORD;
       my spirit fails.
       Do not hide your face from me
       or I will be like those who go down to the pit.

 ⁸ Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
       for I have put my trust in you.
       Show me the way I should go,
       for to you I lift up my soul.

 ⁹ Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD,
       for I hide myself in you.

 ¹⁰ Teach me to do your will,
       for you are my God;
       may your good Spirit
       lead me on level ground.

 ¹¹ For your name's sake, O LORD, preserve my life;
       in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble.

 ¹² In your unfailing love, silence my enemies;
       destroy all my foes,
       for I am your servant.

 

Okay Encourager Family, I’m going to try and make this one short and sweet…..

In this particular Psalm, David finds himself in need of deliverance.  He has gone through some things and he is seeking safekeeping of the Lord.  David explains that not only does he need the Lord to keep him safely, but while he’s being kept, that the Lord will teach him of His ways.  David also explains that he is thirsty for God.  This is the point that I want to work on.

 

Ask yourself if you are thirsty for God.  Someone may say, well explain that question.  But, it’s really not that difficult.  Do you long for God?  Do you desire to be closer to God?  Do you consider the ways of the Lord in your daily being?  Are you out to please the Lord or are you seeking to please yourself or others?

 

We have a tendency as humans to be self serving.  We don’t always mean it, but sometimes we just are.  We have a tendency to seek after those things that satisfy our flesh.  We tend to dwell in what makes us comfortable, many times leaving the arch of safety.   And then trouble comes.   And like little ones who cling to their parents in times of trouble, so do we unto God in our times of despair.

 

With things being the way that they are economically, no one knows other than God what will really become of all these things.  But one thing that I can say is that if you abide in Him, and He in you, then victory is your end result. 

 

Let us return to a place of worship in God.   Let us once again become thirsty for His presence.   Let us become thirsty for His holiness.  Let us become thirsty to follow His ways.  Let us become thirsty for HIM.

 

God bless you richly!

 

Pastor Velvea Brown

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

Encourager For Christ

 

We shall Reap, We faint not!

Galatians 6:7-10 (King James Version)

 

7Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

 8For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

 9And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

 10As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

 

For the seventh anniversary of the Encourager For Christ Ministries, we thank God our Father for all that He has bestowed upon us, to do His will in these last days.  This word comes to encourage those who have been with the Encourager, for we shall reap and we will not faint!

 

In this word, Paul is encouraging the Galatians.  And I had to break context slightly in order to get all of the message in.  First of all, verse seven tells us to not be deceived, for God is not mocked.  Over the years, the word of God has been going forth from this ministry and yet some are still deceived.  Some are still running from God, when we all need to be running toward Him, for time is almost up.  Playing church, living two lives and fooling the preacher is out of style.  You may fool some of the folk some of the time, but you will never fool God.  That’s why in the latter part of this verse, Paul boldly states that whatever you are sowing up in your life if what you are going to reap.  If you are not under the Blood of Jesus Christ, your season of reaping is going to be everything less than beneficial.  It’s time out for wanting God just for the benefits. Yes, while we know that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him, we need to seek Him beyond just what we can get from Him.  We need to seek Him, first, because He is God, creator and ruler of all.  We need to seek Him, because He gave His only begotten Son that we should have life and have it more abundantly.  We should seek Him, because He gave us His Holy Ghost, which constantly leads and guides us.  The Holy Ghost encourages us and brings to mind the words that God said.

 

But for those who will continue to preach the Gospel for gain and those who will continue to ignore the true Word of God, you are sowing unto your flesh and you shall reap corruption.  But to the ones who are faithful in God, sowing unto the Spirit, you shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.  You shall have benefits on earth and more benefits in Heaven.

 

Therefore, for the ones who continue to press on in well doing, don’t be weary.  Don’t get frustrated or dismayed by the fiery darts of the enemy.  But the word of God will quench every fiery dart of the enemy.  Let them talk about you.  Let them walk off from you and leave you to do the works of the Lord.  Let them criticize your faith.  Let them lie on you.  Let them denounce the true prophecies of God.  Let them do whatever they want.  You make sure that you stand firm in the Lord.  For the bible declares that in due season, we shall reap if we do not faint.

 

Due season for the true believer is now beginning.  It’s even in the midst of turmoil and economic downfall.  It’s in the midst of others going through and catching hard times.  It’s in the midst of hell breaking loose.  And yet, you have peace.  Stay there.  Stay in peace and continue to serve God.  You can’t afford to turn around and do anything less than that.  For you are about to reap a greater blessing.  You are about to reap a greater anointing.  You are about to reap greater finances.  And when you do, understand that you are blessed to be a blessing.  Don’t get caught up. But rather praise God and continue to do His works.

 

In spite of whatever is going on, now the people of God are finding themselves in a land of opportunity.  This opportunity did not come by your own good works, but simply by the grace and mercies of God.  Therefore, let us do good unto all men.  Let us encourage those of little faith.  Let us bear witness to those who have no faith.  And let us even do good, as the word says, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.  Some of you need a breakthrough and yet you find yourself struggling with the same thing over and over again.  Can I give you word?  Keep your mouth off of the people of God.  The word declares that you touch not God’s anointing and do His prophet no harm.  Try it and pray rather than criticize.  Have peace in your heart and peace in your minds.

 

For this is truly a season of reaping.  Saints, we are at the end.  Time is almost up.  Lift your tongue to magnify the Lord and to speak of His good works.  Lift your tongue to speak well of your brethren and encourage one another in the Lord. 

 

God Bless You.  We love you and we love you again and again.  Thank you all for spending seven years with us in the Word of God.

 

Yours In Christ,

Evangelist Velvea Brown, Pastor & Founder

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

Breaking the Spirit of Ignorance - Part 2

 

Putting away childish things as referenced by our new President is very necessary in order for us to move to the next level.  Children are expected to act as children, and by the same, adults are expected to act as adults.  And if we can take it to another level, believers are expected to act as believers.  So why then are we so far behind?  Why is it that we are still bound by the spirit of ignorance?  Why is it that we cannot recognize what it really means to be blessed?

 

In the continuation of this series on breaking the spirit of ignorance, we will take a look at three areas of daily life that continue to hinder God’s people.  Of course, there are additional areas and we will look at them in the weeks ahead.  But just for today, if we can touch on a few things that would help us, we will be much better off in the days ahead.  For I truly believe that in spite of the economy, this is a victorious year and a year of prosperity for the believers.  But some of us are going to miss God in our move to the next level if we don’t work on self.  It’s time out for picking on and looking down on others.  Everybody needs God.  And if you feel like you have Him, then help somebody else get Him.  After all, that is the call of the true believer, to believe in, live by and lead others to the Lord.

 

Esteem

Philippians 2:3 - Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

 

In all that we do, we should do it to the glory of God.  We should not do things to brag on one’s self or to belittle another – but to the glory of God.  But even in our attempts to live right and glorify God, others get offended.  We’re not moved by this, because we understand that the world hated Him without a cause.  So how much more could they possibly feel about us?  But if we can really look deeper, the world is not our problem.  Why is it that we as believers cannot esteem other believers?  If we’re in a mess, let’s just admit we’re in a mess.  Don’t get angry at others for not participating in mess.  We as African Americans have been in this country as long as anybody else and yet, we are still perceived as the smaller minority.  That’s because we still have a crab mentality.  We can’t stand to see our brothers and sisters doing better.  We have to find something negative to say to try to hurt them and pull them down.  We have to find some negative aspect, be it true or false, to put into the atmosphere in an attempt to deter the thought of one doing better.  But this is a new day!    And if you don’t get it together and start acting like you know who you are, you will be left behind all by yourself.  Where did you get the audacity to be so small minded and who told you that others had to join you?

 

It’s about time for people to start getting tired of nothing.  Lowliness of mind as stated above has to do with doing things for the right reason.  It has nothing to do with not doing a thing and thinking that it’s alright.  It’s about time for mothers to want to set the example for their daughters.  It’s about time for fathers to once again show their sons that hard work is necessary in order to have something in life.  It’s time out for the men who will not work to stop waiting on the women.  We may have an advantage in corporate America right now, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t need you to be a MAN.  So what if she makes more money that you do.  So what if you feel like she doesn’t really need you.  The truth be told – everybody’s looking for another job right now and the men still have to be men.  As strong as we are forced to be at times, we as women still desire for our husbands to be the head.  That’s your place and you need to take it.

 

And while I realize that this won’t be one of my most popular pieces online, somebody needs to tell the truth, because there’s a cry out in the land!  Brothers – we need your help!  And to the ones already in your rightful place – stay there and stay strong!

 

 

Jealousy, Envy & Strife

James 3:16 - For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.

 

By no means should we be jealous of one another.  For the bible tells us that where there is envy and strife, there is confusion and every evil work.   We know that God is not the author of confusion.  So why allow your mind to dwell there?  Why allow yourself to be fooled into thinking that everything that we do is alright and it’s other folks who have the problem?  Have you really asked yourself why you don’t like that sister?  Have you really asked yourself why you don’t speak to that brother?  Wake up!  It’s not that they all think that they’re better than everyone else.  Sometimes mess is just mess.  And mess does stink.  So, if you have the mentality that something is wrong with everybody else, ask yourself what’s really wrong with you.  Drama is for those who will allow it.  Lies are for those who will believe them.  Sin is for those who will participate in it.  Foolishness is for fools.  And childish measures are for the childish at mind.  Get over it and move on.  Because if you don’t, you will waste a lifetime doing absolutely nothing and getting absolutely nowhere.  And I’m sorry, but that will be no one else’s fault but your own.

 

Instead of trying to player hate, find out how they got to the next level and participate.

 

Marital Relations

Hebrews 13:4 - Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

 

At some point, I will write a book on marriage and family relations.  But for now, let me just share the word.  We all know this scripture regarding marriage, so why is it that we are so quick to tell others to leave their spouse?  Why are we so quick to be against reconciliation when we are still at home with ours?  One of the greatest levels of hypocrisy can be found in those who try to render marital advice.  In 2009, we need to try to keep it at home.  If you are seeking marital advice, seek it from a minster or counselor who is saved and who is for marriage.  Very understandably, there are situations where people do need to be apart.  But even in so being, there are biblical instructions on how you are to maintain yourself in and after the process.  If your spouse leaves you, then there is nothing that you can do other than pray.  If God says no, let no be no.  But if He says yes, then give it time.  It will work out. 

 

Let your single friends mind their own business.  Let your married friends mind their business at home.  And let your divorced friends examine their own problems.  Seek Godly counsel, because people are not always honest with themselves about their own relations, yet are quick to try to render advice & judgment to others regarding theirs.  Each relationship is unique, because two unique individuals came together to create one unique union in God.  No, things may not be perfect.  But if we tell the truth, they never are.  Perfection only exists in Christ.  In all other beings, it is a state that we strive for in Him. 

 

The only thing that I cannot support is someone getting abused.  Then, you need to seek professional help and possibly shelter.  All other matters, no matter how much they may hurt, aggravate, or simply disappoint are still matters of the heart.  Pray about it, talk about it and be ye reconciled one to another.

 

Yours In Christ,

Pastor V. Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ / New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

 

 

Breaking the Spirit of Ignorance

Romans 10:2-4 (King James Version)

 

 2For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.

 3For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

 4For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

 

In this passage of scripture, the Apostle Paul was dealing with the unbelief of the Israelites.  They were stuck on the law and did not accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  We have to be careful to not make up our own religion or righteousness as did the unbelieving Israelites.  Jesus is the most complete revelation of God and we cannot know God apart from Jesus Christ.  And because God appointed Jesus to bring God and man together, there is no other path in which one can come to God.  Because the Jews would not accept Christ, they could not understand living by faith in God.  Therefore, they established customs in addition to the law that made them feel as though they were acceptable in God’s eyes.  They were trying to earn their salvation by works.  The bible clearly tells us that it’s not by any works of righteousness, but by His grace it is that we are saved.  The only way for man to earn salvation is to be perfect.  The imperfection of man was disclosed long ago with Adam and Eve, which is why we bear the issues of life that we do today – sin, which is the imperfection of man in God’s perfect standard.  This is why Jesus came to save, because we have these imperfections in our lives.  While the law was a schoolmaster, that showed us our sins and imperfect ways, it was also a shadow of Christ to come.  When Christ came on earth, the law was then fulfilled and grace & faith then became our means of salvation.  It was made clear at that time that there was absolutely nothing that we could do to earn our way into the Kingdom of Heaven.  The only way in is through Jesus Christ.  We are, as the bible instructs, to accept Him by grace through faith and in all sincerity in heart know that we are saved. 

 

Now when we are saved, then we take on the ways of Christ.  Christ exemplified on earth God’s desires for His people.  He showed us how to love and care for one another.  And He showed us how to love God.  In loving God, we love His people.  We are therefore not called to be schoolmasters, babysitters or police of the law.  But rather, we are called to be Encouragers for Christ in that what Christ did for us, the law could not do.  The law educated but the law could not save.  That’s why Jesus came, bled, died & got up with all power.  So why do some of us in the church still have a law mentality?  Why are some of us trying to be pharisees over the people of God?  Why is it that we have created a system that we feel is acceptable for salvation that we try to measure everyone else to instead of simply lining things up with the Word?  Why is it that we crucify each other over and over again to make ourselves appear to be righteous?  What is this self-righteousness that is carrying church folk to hell?

 

Who are we to judge one another, when by the same measure we shall be judged?  For the very thing that you judge one for, you shall find yourself being judged for.  Is it possible that what we offer is zeal that is not based on the true knowledge of who God really is?  Be not deceived.

 

Make no mistake; by no means do we excuse sin.  By no means do we agree with the ways of the world.  But by the same token, we should not make up religious ways to make us feel as though we are righteous.  When the Word of God is truly planted on the inside, then we can bear the fruit of righteousness.  There will be no need to use the Word as ammunition to regard self-righteousness, but rather as a sword of truth to all that need to be saved.  Ignorance is not an excuse, but it is a sure ticket to hell.  Break the spirit of ignorance and let the real spirit of truth shine forth.

 

Understand that true righteousness bears fruit of the Holy Spirit.  And when you deal with the fruit of the Holy Spirit, you have to understand that love is the greatest of all.  And love is not puffed up or boastful.  Love covers a multitude of sins.  And above all, God is love.  So, when you are in a position to tell someone something about the Lord, it’s not a time of boasting in what you have.  But rather, it is a time to elevate others in the Lord.  Don’t take your moment for granted, because the same way that you win souls, you can lose them with ignorance.  That is not true righteousness.  It’s a product of self, therefore being self-righteousness.  Don’t allow self to stop the move of God in your life.  Exalt the Lord and allow His righteousness to shine in you so that men may see your good works and glorify the Father which is in Heaven.

 

Be Blessed & Highly Favored of The Lord.

 

Yours In Christ,

Pastor V. Brown

Encourager For Christ

New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.

 

 

Not Entitled, But Simply Given

Acts 6:1-5, 8-15

6:1And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

2Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

3Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

4But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

5And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:

6:8And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

9Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.

10And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.

11Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.

12And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,

13And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:

14For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.

15And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

In the beginning of this particular passage, we find the new comers into Christ (Grecians) and the Hebrews (those who spoke Hebrew language of the old testament). The Hebrews knew the law as it was passed to them through Moses. However, the Grecians were those who were new comers or converts that got saved through grace in the new testament. They were all a part of the early church that the Apostles experienced Pentecost in. The big deal here between these two groups of people (although a part of the same Body of Christ), was a spirit of entitlement. Hebrews were like those folks whose great grandparents have been in the church that they now attend and so they feel like they own it. Grecians were those new comers into the body, either by way of transfer or new conversion into Christ. Now right here, we all know what the conflict is - entitlement. Those of us who have been in Christ for some time have to be careful as to how we receive and treat others. God is not looking at how long your family has been there or how long you have been there. He is looking at your heart. And just like the thief on the cross who got saved at the last minute, those who are coming in at the last hour shall too have the same right to reign with Jesus Christ forever more. Sometimes our witness says ‘attitude’ rather than thankfulness. Sometimes our praise gets puffed up and we start pretending like God owed it to us anyway. But the devil is still a liar and the blood of Jesus is still against him. God didn’t owe us anything. But because He is God and because He loves us so much, He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth shall not perish, but have everlasting life. So why are we so stuck on our praise? Why are we so stuck on ourselves, when if it had not been for the Lord, we wouldn’t have any of it?

We as believers (well seasoned) need to examine ourselves from time to time (everyday) and understand that God didn’t owe us a thing. Therefore, we are not entitled to a thing. But rather, He simply gave us eternal life through His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ.

Nothing smells worse than foul praise. Arrogance sends a foul incense into the nostrils of our God. We should learn to humble ourselves, not just in talk, but in deed. We should be glad to have the victory. But we should also remember that that same victory is given to every believer. God is no respecter of persons. The same blood that was shed on Calvary was shed not just for one, but for all.

So, to all that believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, stay encouraged in the Lord and in the power of His might.

God bless you all and we love you and love you again.

Yours In Christ,

Pastor Velvea Brown, Founder

Encourager For Christ / New Life Christian Fellowship of Ocala, Inc.