Grieving Our Disappointed Desires & Losses - Pat Stark

Pat Stark

When we begin to allow ourselves to experience life without wearing our rose colored glasses, we often come face to face with some disappointed hopes, desires, frustrations, sorrows, injustices, and a general reflection of the brokenness of the world we currently live in. Most of us have spent a lifetime trying to push away, control, or redesign that realty. Without warning we can and have all experienced things like the death of a loved one, the finality of an unwanted divorce, an unexpected illness, the pain of betrayal in a valued relationship, the sudden loss of a job, or simply an unfulfilled desire we have concerning our family or close friends — often even with God. Our simple desires, especially around the holidays, are often thwarted with so many feeling forgotten, rejected, abandoned, or depressed.

 Where is God in all this, especially when we are feeling so very alone, forsaken, and sometimes even forgotten by him and others? I see Jesus weeping because it was never meant to be this way: a “Man of Sorrows” who experienced that grief too. However, because of his own suffering, death and resurrection, he is now a Redeemer of things stolen, a Restorer of broken hearts so that we can now experience a “fellowship in our suffering” with him and he with us when we are willing to allow ourselves to enter our grief with him.

 This is not the Garden he originally created for us to enjoy. Many of us have spent far too much energy trying to recreate that Garden the way it was originally intended to be; and in that struggle, we often find ourselves angry, frustrated, depressed, and struggling to make life work according to our picture, and make it be fair. The reality is that this world isn't fair -- it wasn't fair for Jesus as they abused him and hung him on a cross even though he was the only perfect man who had ever lived! If it wasn’t fair for Jesus, you can bet it won't be fair or just for us at times. One day on the other side, yes, but not here.

 Then what do we do when our heart breaks over some loss or disappointment in our lives? What do we do with our fears of the insecurity of life and those things our hearts were created for, the things we had hoped for? What do we do with that slow ache that resides far down in the depths of our soul, the vague feelings of disillusionment that we have experienced over and over in relationships, jobs, church, ministry, even with God and ourselves if we can no longer bury them, or even hide those feelings under our survival system of choice? We can't just carry them so there must be a way to release them and find the peace that passes understanding and the joy of life even in their midst! Grief is part of life in a broken world. If we don’t release our sorrows and disappointments with mourning, we bury them internally and carry the emotions, often in our physical bodies as sickness, and miss the release and comfort God provides.

 Jesus said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted,” Matthew 5:4 NIV.

 Mourning our Grief

God's way of helping us to release a loss of any kind is through grieving. Too often we put grieving only in the category of death, but it is far bigger than that. Any loss, major or seemingly minor, when mourned, can be released.

 Grieving begins with acknowledging and facing that loss, not just in general, but as our pain-filled loss. It is listening to the voice of our own heart in that moment and allowing ourselves to feel emotions like anger, disappointment, sadness, depression, distraction, anxiety, and even fear, putting our own words to them.

 Because our emotions are the voice of our hearts, they are telling us what our hearts are feeling and when we refuse to acknowledge the feeling, we can stay stuck in that particular emotion for years even though we bury it and try to move on. But when we allow ourselves to “mourn” our loss, we will continue to move through the pain finally coming to a place of acceptance and peace.

 As we allow ourselves to mourn our losses, the eyes of our hearts become open to see the many gifts God is giving; some very small and others that are amazing, right in the midst of the losses of our lives that bring new adventure to each day. The more we allow ourselves to face our losses, we begin to see with new eyes of wonder that the difficult and sad are often mixed in with the beautiful and wonderful. In the same hour we can experience a wonderful "gift" through a moment of joy along with a major disappointed desire. How do we handle that mixture? By remembering we all desire to live "happily ever after" as the fairly tales have portrayed —and it would have been our experience had we remained in the Garden, but unfortunately the fall of man messed up that picture completely. So until we one day live on the other side of the “veil”, we will live here with mixture and we desperately need God to walk with us in the midst of both our sorrows and our joys.

 “...weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning,” Psalms 30:5 NIV.

 “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever,” Psalms 30:11-12 NIV.

Think On These Things - Richard Maisenbacher

Recently the Lord has had me do a little research on Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (KJV)

 I was particularly intrigued by the word “think” found toward the end of this verse. So I dug into some word studies and read several commentaries. I am also always thankful for Skip Moen’s studies, even though he now resides in Italy,( https://www.skipmoen.com). In the NAS the English word used for “think” is dwell, which still implies thinking. However, the Greek word that Paul used is logizomai, which means to reckon or to charge. The more general definition would be to deliberate or to conclude. Paul was a Hebrew, as well as a Greek scholar, so he tried to implement Hebraic thought as he translated the Old Testament into Greek.

 Instead of focusing on the word think or dwell Paul brought the Hebraic idea of not just using your thought process, but to reckon (calculating or estimating) with your soul, which includes your mind, will, and emotions. Paul also brought the emotional and volitional aspects into this word logizomai. The Western Greek culture stressed thinking, where the Hebraic focused on thinking, emotions and applying or doing what the Bible taught.

 Paul is not just exhorting us to think better, he is telling us to convert proper thought and emotion into action. It makes me want to do more research on the other words Paul encourages us to dwell on and apply to our lives: whatsoever things are honest, just, pure, lovely, good report, virtue, and praise. There is a big difference between thinking and putting those thoughts into action! Obviously this is an area I need to understand and implement more in my own life since the Lord seems to me highlighting this verse.

 More to come!

 In His Covenant Love,

Preparation For Your Destination - Becky Maisenbacher

During the recent Ten Days of Awe, it was a special time of reflection with the Lord. Matthew 26 was particularly highlighted to me as I read again about the woman with the alabaster box or vial. “Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the leper, a woman came to Him with an alabaster vial of very costly perfume, and she poured it upon His head as He reclined at the table. But the disciples were indignant when they saw this, and said, “Why this waste? For the perfume might have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” Verse 10 particularly stood our to me and I slowly reread the words of Jesus: “But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why do you bother the woman? For she has done a good deed to Me. For the poor you have with you always; but you do not always have Me. For when she poured this perfume upon My body, she did it to prepare Me for burial. Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done shall also be spoken of in memory of her.”

 Immediately, this woman appeared before me in a vision. It was time to research further to see what others had to say about her. Surprisingly what was written revealed some conflicting information. I found there were various commentaries that gave different insight regarding this woman and her life. Some believe she was Lazarus’ sister, others suggest Mary Magdalene or another unknown woman. Her ability to possess a translucent alabaster vial containing rare perfume suggests she may have been wealthy; while some believe this precious vial of perfume or ointment, which was about 300 denarii, amounted to a year’s labor which she may have saved up.

 There is also conjecture about whether she anointed Jesus’ head, just His feet or both. So references are given to Mark 14:3 and Luke 7:37 for further research. I personally wonder if Judas was one of the disciples who may have questioned her extravagance.  Since shortly after, he went to the chief priests and asked how much he could make turning Jesus over to them. Hidden motivations of the heart are usually exposed at some point through our behavior.

 As I meditated on these verses, more questions appeared. I wanted to know more about her and her life, and how she decided to give this costly ointment to Jesus. Did she impulsively grab the beautiful glass bottle one day, running breathlessly to where He was eating in an impulsive moment when she realized what Jesus meant to her and what He had done for her? Or were her actions well thought out and pre-meditated? If she was Lazarus’ sister, she would have been extremely grateful that He raised her brother from the dead. If it was Mary Magdalene she would have been overtaken with His kindness and gentleness as He acknowledged her, giving her a new identity as person that was loved by God.

 Of course we may never know the truth of her motivation. We don’t really know her process of preparation in her personal life that brought her to the moment to share her expensive product with Jesus. What we do remember and what is historically recorded are her actions. Her act of love and humility, gratitude and thankfulness as she approached Jesus and shared her precious ointment, giving all she was worth to Him is what we remember. And Jesus being honored by her endeavor declared in verse 13: “Wherever the gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done shall also be spoken of in memory of her.” We know little of her time of work and sacrifice to earn and purchase this rare vial of perfume, or how long she possessed it. However, her behavior and deed, as well as her love for Him lives on.

 To me, she has become a representation of the years of preparation that take place for those called of God; and you all are called! I’ve become more keenly aware of the hidden and sometimes arduous process of transformation in His kingdom. Often years of training, maturing, developing, gleaning wisdom and understanding are hidden - out of sight, where people only see the results or the sudden breakthrough. We often forget to consider the incubation period, or the required time and sacrifice; sometimes years of labor in preparing a person for His release.

 And like the disciples taunting her, today some still go through the same persecution practice: “What are you doing throwing your life away studying to become a pastor or missionary? What are you doing paying to go to Bible School and giving tithes when you don’t even own your home or go on vacation? What are doing when all your money could be given to the poor or needy? Why are you helping that person? Why did you give up your job for ministry when you have multiple degrees to live well in comfort, and you choose to serve others? How could you open your home to the poor and homeless? These questions caused me to pause and think again about the hidden motivations of the one asking them, just like some of the disciples. Why did they care how this woman chose to express her gratitude and affection? Why did they care where she spent her money or her time?

 Today as I reflect on our Covenant Center family as well as the family of God at large, no one really knows for sure what you have walked through or experienced to bring you to the place of devotion to Him. No one really knows the years of preparation and sacrifice in your journey before you reach your destination. You see there is always preparation for the destination. And everyone is in some stage of preparation for their destination. We usually just don’t realize it as we daily walk through the often mundane process of life in this world.

 In 15 years we moved 12 times before arriving here in Florida. In those uncertain and sometimes tumultuous years of searching to find “Who am I? Who is God?” life was filled with what seemed to be the mundane: job chasing, bill paying, children raising, house and laundry cleaning, meal preparation, finance budgeting and more. I now realize there was much growth, maturing and preparation that ultimately paved the way to where we are today. Wisdom and understanding often came through failure and loss. Please know that whatever you may be experiencing today; you are also being prepared for your destination!

 If you have given your heart to Jesus, you’ve experienced the first step. That moment when He came to you and said: “Would you love Me and be My disciple?” Later in life He comes to you again and says: “Will you visit the sick, feed the poor and widowed? Or maybe He asks: “Will you pick up trash and clean the toilets as you open your home for others to come. Will you sell your home and follow Me? Will you teach the 2 year olds? The 4 year olds? Will you sing and praise Me? Will you study and receive training? Will you pray? Will you give offerings and tithes? Will you love the unlovely? Will you forfeit your own comfort? Will you give yourself to Me?” Then one day He comes and asks if you want to climb even higher. “Will you give all that you are to Me so I may mold you into My image and desire for your destiny?” The gift of age will help you to one day look back and realize your life choices have all been preparation for your destination. You begin to realize in each of His requests you have reflected on your life, wrestled a bit with Him, examined your motivations; and finally made a choice.

 To me this is what the woman with the precious vial walked through. She fell so deeply in love with Jesus; the one who saved her and honored her. He taught her and showed her what love looked like. He forgave her, encouraged her and she knew she was changed with a new identity. She realized she was no longer the person of her past. She responded to the heavenly character and nature in Jesus and the love and acceptance she received. She was now free. Without hesitation she willingly gave all to Him.

 You are in your preparation for your destination. God will lovingly and continually check in on you and help you reflect on your motivations as you make choices that will propel you forward in His plan for your life. Each one of you will have multiple choices before your life is over to break your own alabaster vials, pouring yourself out to Him in gratefulness and thanksgiving.  Where are you in your journey? What is precious to you? What is He asking of you? Are you willing to break open your vial?

In His Love,

The Feasts Of The Lord Are Here - Richard Maisenbacher

We find described in Leviticus 23 God's feasts or His appointed times of celebration and consecration. The fall feast is a season when God wants His people to learn to rest in Him. The Feast of Passover teaches about God's peace; the Feast of Pentecost instructs us on God's power; and the Feast of Tabernacles gives understanding about God's rest.

Even though the days previous to the feast were a time of repentance and reflection, the Feast of Tabernacles celebrated the final ingathering of the harvest which God had blessed the people with for year. The fruit of the land had been reaped, so the people could rest from their harvesting labors. It was a time of great rejoicing! They would celebrate and thank God in advance for the next harvest.

The Feast of Tabernacles emphasized a rest with the Lord, however it did not necessarily mean to literally lay down and do nothing. Rest meant to continue to be intimate with Him, staying involved in the normal work of the Kingdom, while continuing with their occupation, family, study, prayer and ministry.

The dates for this Fall, 2019 are: 

Rosh Hashanna ( Feast of Trumpets) Beginning of the New Year - September 29 - 30
Days of Awe - Include the 10 days from Rosh Hashanna to Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) A day of fasting - October 8 - 9
Sukkot or Feast of Tabernacles/Booths - October 13 - 20

I believe God is doing many things behind the scenes during this time of restoration and reconciliation. I know during this Fall season God is going to move in a great way, affecting not only the seven mountains, but His people individually as well. I do not know how it will play out, but I know there is a correction coming to level out the playing field and to begin to restore what has been stolen from His people.

Let's celebrate His Fall Feasts and look forward to this New year!

In His Covenant Love,

He Watches Over You - Becky Maisenbacher

Recently we walked out our front door in the early morning to be met by this large beautiful feather lying directly in our path. Gazing at this beautiful pristine and well formed feather of black and white I stood amazed at God’s goodness and faithfulness to remind us He is near. Turning to Richard I declared what a precious gift that morning to remind us of His presence. I love how our Father uses His creation to speak to us, because He always desires to speak to His people through His word, His still small voice within (Holy Spirit), and nature - actually the entire universe. Scripture reminds us: The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands, Psalm 19:1b.

I knew this feather was representing His presence with us particularly that morning and I thanked Him for reminding me of His love and care. Having experienced the trauma of a high speed head on car crash years earlier, some residue still remains and God knows car travel is a always a step of faith for me. So this small expression of nature touched my heart as His peace enveloped me. Yes, you guessed it. Close to twenty minutes into our travels we were almost hit by a fast moving car. We were tossed about with adrenaline rushing through us, but by a near miss we were unharmed. In thankfulness we continued our errands, but my grateful heart began to ponder the works of His hands. How often He protects us without us knowing He is near. And even if we experience a challenge, His presence remains and He walks with us through the adversity. Feathers may represent protection; shield; comfort; covering; anointing; ability to fly. The black and white color: there are no gray areas with you; a straight shooter; very decisive; prophetic view point; you are either for or against, no middle line. ( A-Z Dream Symbology Dictionary-Dr. Barbie Breathitt).

Please know that He is always watching over you and walking with you each day! He is Immanual. He is with you! Matthew 1:23 declares: "Behold, the virgin shall be with child and shall bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which translated means "God with us". (NAS)

“Father, increase our understanding with fresh eyes to see and ears to hear what you are speaking. Help us to gain insight regarding the world around us, as you give wisdom and understanding. Help us to know you are near.”

The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore.
Psalm 121:5-8 New International Version (NIV)

 In His Love -

August - Intimacy, Training and Activation - Richard Maisenbacher

This August we will focus on intimacy, continued training and higher levels of activation. John 17:3, ​“And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” ​ At The Covenant Center during July we encouraged everyone to rest, pray, study God’s Word, and be with their families. I have heard some great testimonies on how the Lord has spoken to believers in either prayer or His Word. John 17:3 encourages us to know (yada) Him intimately and as a result we respond to His voice and His Words in the scriptures.

Sundays​ - ​In August we will go back to a little more of a consistent schedule. Sunday celebration meetings will continue with worship, a little 1 Corinthians 14:26 sharing, teaching, and ministry!

Mondays -​ David and Amy Rhinehart currently are training facilitators for the Covenant Life Groups. This is a ministry for people dealing with life’s struggles through Christ-centered support groups. The starting date of these groups will be September 9t​h​ on Mondays.

Tuesdays -​ ​Dan Koerner and Frank Salerno will continue to facilitate The Men’s Roundtable, the longest running TCC small group. Locations are announced.

Wednesdays - ​During the month of August and September Richard and Becky Maisenbacher will be facilitating the Hearing God class. They will be emphasizing hearing and healing through His gifts of the Spirit with practical teaching, discussion, and prophetic exercises.

Fridays - ​Transitioning from our Friday night school of the prophets we will have a variety of other events throughout the year. I anticipate some of our Friday nights will include TCC Worship, Arts Events, and prophetic meetings. For instance, on the September 20t​h​ weekend, Andrew Ehrenzeller will be having a worship night on Friday and Worship Training for leaders on Saturday. Other events may be scheduled on Fridays, including Sundays or weekend seminars. We so appreciate Don Franklin, Randi Lechner, and Glenn Miller for consistently imparting to our community for the last three years on Friday evenings. We also thank Barbie Breathitt and Cathy Lechner for also speaking and imparting into our community.

Covenant-U online - ​Now that Covenant-U is established, our School of Theology with an option of licensing and ordination will be offered ​online instead of Monday nights, (www.thecovenantcenter.com/covenant-u). This will provide a much more flexible schedule for those desiring to further their ministry education. The school has four main areas of study: Hebraic Thought, Spiritual Roots, Knowing God, and Spiritual Leadership. At this time we have an articulation agreement with ​Southeastern University​, thanks to Melissa Maisenbacher and Dr. Meghan Griffin, in which Covenant-U students may earn up to 16 credit hours toward an SEU degree program’s general electives if desired! A big thanks to Zach Maisenbacher for developing Covenant-U, Joel Harrison and John Franklin for getting the school online, and of course Debra Mathewson and Vanderly Arnold for helping to manage it!

It looks like a busy year of intimacy, training and activation to me! We appreciate all of you who have chosen to involve yourself relationally and give to the Center!

In His Covenant Love,

July - Increased Time With God And Family - Richard Maisenbacher

Except for our Sunday celebrations and a few home groups, July brings a “slow down” of activity at The Covenant Center. This month is a time for family and friends to gather, vacations and special destinations to explore and is simply a great time to labor into His rest. I think the reason God used the word “labor” in this phrase is because sometimes it takes some labor and planning to rest in intimacy with HIm.

John 17:3 says: “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” One of our most important goals is to know (yada - Hebrew) Him. What a great opportunity to change some of our busy daily habits by increasing our intimacy with Him in prayer, studying the Torah and practicing His presence. However, it does not mean we may not have to “labor” at getting rid of some of the distractions of life in order to accomplish this.

I suggest actually scheduling in some time with Him during the day and/or evening. It can be a time of prayer, including a journal or pad of paper to take notes. In addition to prayer, begin reading Genesis, Proverbs, Psalms, the Gospels, Romans, or any book that you enjoy. The most important part is to include and increase communication with the Lord during this study. It is amazing the revelation the Lord desires to impart with creative ideas to help solve many of life’s challenges.

I encourage you to use this month of July to labor into His rest by increasing your prayer and Torah study with Him, allowing these good habits to continue for the rest of the year. Enjoy this time of family, friends and especially Jesus!

In His Covenant Love,

I Am The Great Maestro - Becky Maisenbacher

While in prayer on Sunday Morning at The Covenant Center, May 26, 2019, I heard the Spirit of the Lord say:

I am the Great Maestro! I am the Great Maestro! I am the Conductor of the Universe and all things bow to My name. Do you think that I am caught by surprise by events and situations and even trials that you must walk through? Do you think that I am not aware when evil and darkness must come to My throne to ask permission to do anything in this world, in this universe? No! I am not surprised and yet I hear My children, My people often saying, “Why, why, why, why, God?”  as they also said many years before. I heard their cries with Noah, I heard their cries with Abraham, I heard their cries with Moses. Why?  But My plans are far  greater than your understanding can imagine. I am doing a great work in the earth. I’m doing a great work in the universe. Open your eyes, listen with your ears. Allow My Spirit to flow through you which will allow you to see the magnificence of My actions. Yes, there are people that are martyred in my name. Has it not been said so in Scripture? And yes, even today that we celebrate those who were martyred in the name of freedom, is that not what My Son stood for? Freedom! But the freedom that comes by My Spirit is much different than the world.

So I say to you My beloved, do not look at the world and do not weigh your importance or your actions by what the world says is important. Sit with Me, continue to run with Me, speak with Me, study with Me, walk with Me, and let Me continue to reveal My secrets and the keys to My Kingdom. For even though it looks dark around you, I am with you. Does it not say that I am with you always? I am with you and I am moving on your behalf. And I am bringing healing and life to you, and wholeness. So, shall it be in this world as it also is in My Kingdom! So, do not fret, do not worry, do not be disconcerted by events around you for you will see in the coming days and you will look back and go “Oh, oh, oh!  Oh Father, Oh my Lord, You had it all under control all the time.” So receive today, My love. Receive an indwelling. Allow Me to become a habitation within you where I will be with you always, and you will sense My manifest presence. I will bring you peace and life through whatever you walk through. Let Me guide you in your jobs. Let Me guide you in those that you meet - the divine appointments. Let Me guide you through your day.

So again I ask and remind you, know that I am with you. Know that I am the Conductor of the universe and I know where you are and I know who you are and I know you by name and I know the events that take place in your life. And you will see and you will sense My hand and My love wrapped around you, guiding you, guarding you, and encouraging you till the day you come home to see Me face to face.

I am the Conductor of the universe. I am the Great Maestro. Rejoice in Me that nothing is too great for Me and nothing has taken Me by surprise. 

We thank you Father that you know who we are and you know each one of us by name. We thank you that you are doing a great work in the earth and your desire is to prosper each one of your children, and have them be in health, even as our souls prosper. Thank You Lord! Thank You Lord!

In His Love,

Believe In Me - Becky Maisenbacher

While in prayer on Sunday Morning at The Covenant Center, May 19, 2019, I heard the Spirit of the Lord say:

Whose report do you believe? I ask you, Whose report do you believe? Do you believe Me? Do you believe My word? Do you know that, yes, sorrow comes but there is still joy in the morning? I’m setting you up, I’m setting you up for miracles in your life. I’m setting you up for promotion. Yes, the season has been hard. Training is hard, challenges are hard, gathering wisdom and understanding often comes through pain, but I am setting you up for promotion. Who do you think that that I am? I ask you beloved, who do you think that I am? Do you think that I have not created you before the world began? Do you think that I have not given you favor? Do you think that I am not the One who promotes you? Do you think I am not the One who prospers you? Do you think I am not the One who heals you? Do you think I am not the One who orders your steps? The darkness and the enemy would come to torment you. There are many that are being tormented in this day. I haven’t done it! You say “ I’ve missed it, He’s not with me anymore, why is He not speaking to me? I guess I’ve missed it. I guess He doesn’t love me. I guess it was never real. I guess He’s not real.”  But I say to you, I am real and I created you for My divine purpose, and it shall be so because what I start I finish. And I ask you today, who do you believe? What do you believe? And as I spoke to My disciples I said to them, Believe in Me. Trust Me, for I am with you always. Believe in Me and know that I am with you and I have good things planned for you and I plan to prosper you, I plan to give you favor. But know that some things take time because I am not throwing you together for you to lose or to fail. I am building you to be victorious.

So, even though at times it may seem like suffering, and even though at times it may seem I am quiet, know that I am with you always! I am with you always, And in time I will unfold the plan in your life and you will see Me prosper you because you believe in Me.and you are Mine. Do you sense the wind? The wind is blowing! The breath of My Spirit is blowing!  You’ve entered a new season. Feel the wind blowing upon you and your family. Feel the wind blowing upon the embers of the passion that has softened or died because of the hardships you’ve gone through. I’m blowing on those embers (blowing into the mic). Be revived! I’m sending My angelic host - be revived, be revived, be revived. Be revived with the vision I gave you. Be revived with the gifts that I’ve given you. Be revived with the hope that I’ve placed within you and imparted to you. Be revived in My love. For this is a new day!  I know, I know, you’ve heard new day, new day, new day. But it is a new day for you! Even though your schedule may not look like the schedule of others, I ask you, don’t compare! Don’t compare! This is not a competition. I’m dealing with you individually. I’m dealing with your life, I’m dealing with your family, I’m answering your prayers. Look to Me. Trust Me. Believe in Me. For I have not left you, and you will see things begin to spring forth and you will say, “Thank You, Lord, it is well with You.  It is well with my soul.” 

So rejoice and give Me praise because I am the God that is more than enough. I am the King of the Universe and you will see Me move on your behalf. 

Thank you Lord for your love and provision. That you guide us and walk with us. Thank you that you have plans not to harm us but to give us hope. Thank you that you walk with us and guide us even in uncharted waters and even in darkness. Lord, we believe and ask you to help us with any unbelief. We choose to trust you and place our hope in you. Help us to sense the wind of your Spirit and see with Spirit eyes your plans and purposes. Thank you that all provision comes from you - that you are our supply. Thank you Lord that you are always with us. We rejoice in your loving kindness and goodness. We thank You, Lord!

Be blessed in His love and grace!

Urgent Need For Benny Humphries-Deeper In Love Ministries Peru

There is no greater love than laying down one’s life for his brother. Benny Humphries is the quintessential picture of just that. Once an educator in Polk County Florida, with ministry training from Carpenter’s Home Church to Morningstar Ministries, he sensed twenty years ago the call of God to sell everything and go to the nations. He found himself in Peru where he met his beautiful wife Alexandria, a native of Peru. They not only started their family, but they birthed a spiritual family in Tarapoto, Peru, in the low jungle near the Amazon River.

Over the years Benny and his wife and family have developed a K-3 school, three congregations, outreach programs including food for the poor, and various conferences to train and equip Pastors. They have traveled the Amazon River taking their training and message to various Pastors and developing communities, also giving support and guidance. Benny also sits on several Boards lending support and counseling. He has written numerous books to help educate and train others. Benny and his family have truly lived by faith, being instructed to build a non-denominational community named Deeper In Love Ministries Peru. While other missionaries align with mainline groups often giving greater financial support, it has been God bringing provision for all He has requested of Benny. This apostolic ministry is touching the world and people of Peru in His name.

The Humphries have six children, five biological and one adopted, ranging from ages five to twenty-three. Their family has lived through three earthquakes, bringing damage to their home. However the recent earthquake in Peru at 8.0 hit hard, demolishing many homes around them and making their home now unlivable by Civil Defense Code. The home, over 60 years old, is made of compacted clay and the foundation has now shifted and is broken. They have patched up their home for a decade after each earthquake. The need for a secure home structure is urgent for the Humphries. The home must be rebuilt with concrete blocks to be livable and align with civil codes. For this reason we are trying to help raise the $80,000.00 needed to rebuild.

Deeper in Love MInistries Mission Statement is: To advance the Kingdom of God by completing the great commission including building schools, churches, writing relevant books and bringing people into the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

You can find up to date information and photos on their Facebook page: Deeper In Love Ministries Peru.

For donations please visit their GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/rebuild-home-for-missionaries-benny-amp-alexandra.

If you choose to send a check please make it out to “The Covenant Center” and mark it for “Benny.” Our address is: The Covenant Center, 26 Lake Wire, PO Box 524, Lakeland, Florida 33802-0524.

Thank you for your prayers as well as your support for this family and ministry and for your giving to this urgent need.

In His Covenant Love,

Seven Truths For A Strong Foundation - Pat Stark

Broken world living contains much mixture - the beautiful with the ugly, the easy with the difficult, the joys with the sorrows, the wonderful with the terrible, the thrilling and exciting with the mundane and downright boring. Walking with God through all of the above refines and purifies our demanding hearts; for in our humanity, we all desire the perfect, the fair, the just, the easy. One day on the other side, we will have it, but not here. Jesus in all his perfection suffered horrible injustice! And so will we (John 16:33).

Just like in the seasons of nature, a tree is battered in some moments and restored with the warmth of the sunshine in others; stretched to capacity as it is bent low in a violent windstorm, but restored to beauty in the gentle rains from above. Our lives are like that - the future unknown, the next moments uncertain, but God is our Rock, the only solid place under our feet when all else is quaking. We know that in our heads, but through our circumstances we are forced to learn that in our hearts. He is the only sure foundation for our time (Isaiah 33:6) - for the insecurities we live with that are lurking in the distance. HE is our only security. Surrendering our lives into his hands is the only way of peace, for He alone holds all things together when they seem to be falling apart all around us (Colossians 1:17 & Psalm 31:14-15 NIV).

In this my 80th year of life with over 50 plus years of walking with Jesus, I have come to some realities to stand firm upon as I have walked through the battering of this fallen world in my day to day circumstances.

1) Emotional healing from the past frees me to live from God’s grace and peace, instead of fear, anxiety and
the need to control.

2) I can’t do life on my own. I don’t even know what it is suppose to look like. My own “pictures of life” are skewed. I am weak, but He is strong in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10 and 13:4 NIV).

3) Life really is too big for me so I must be desperately, emotionally dependent upon God at all times or fear will take over.

4) Unless I become childlike, not childish, I can’t even see the Kingdom of God, no less live in it. (Children are weak and dependent, trusting on the one who is bigger than them).

5) I will grieve and mourn a lot because this broken world is not what I was created for and not the way I want it to be (Matthew 5:3,4 NIV).

6) Daily surrender and gratitude are absolutely necessary if I’m to live in peace and remain in peace in the midst of it all. (I must look daily with thankfulness for the gifts that come in the midst of the losses).

7) I get the privilege of co-laboring with God in my own uniqueness and for His own purposes, so my life takes on rich meaning even in the midst of the brokenness of daily living.

Sometimes He Asks You To Get In The Boat - Becky Maisenbacher

Jesus was with His disciples after a time of teaching, when He turns and says to them in Mark 4:35: “Hey guys, let’s get in the boat and cross to the other side.” Now one must assume Jesus knew that a storm was brewing, but he asked his friends to get in the boat with him anyway. Verse 37 states: Soon a violent windstorm came up, and the waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was being swamped. But Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on the cushion. So they woke Him and said, ‘Teacher, don’t You care that we are perishing?’ Then in verse 39 Jesus spoke to the storm and wind - “Silence! Be still! And the wind died down and it was perfectly calm.

Storms of life are never enjoyable. Here in Florida I watch the weather to actually try to avoid them, but eventually they do appear. The disciples were a good picture of what we emotionally deal with when a storm arises. They were fearful and the unknown was disconcerting, so Jesus spoke to their doubt, while exposing their thoughts and concerns. But there was more happening than they may have realized. What did they experience while in the storm? They experienced a miracle and God’s supernatural power they had never seen before, exclaiming: “Who is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?” They grew in wisdom and understanding and further witness of the Kingdom through their experience in the boat. We want to know God and understand His ways, but to experience Him, He may ask or invite you to get in the boat. The disciples were out of control, but Jesus was right there with them, watching over, guiding, revealing more of Himself to His followers. I’m sure the disciples grew in their faith and trust knowing Jesus was with them, keeping them safe. And the good news is He is still the same today for you and me! Maybe you are in the boat with a storm brewing, or are about to be invited into the boat. There is nothing more peaceful and soothing than gliding along the smooth glass like sea of Galilee on a beautiful day, but if a storm begins to erupt, look for Jesus. He is right there with you preparing to teach you who He is and how much He cares for you. He will comfort, protect, guide you and watch over you. Know that He rides upon your storm and when you agree with Him and look for what He is teaching or revealing, you will sail through and watch Him calm the waters as you grow in wisdom and understanding.

In 1993, Arthur Burt, a wise prophet, gave a word of encouragement to Richard and I. It took me some years to understand, because I had yet to encounter a really troubling storm. But this word, encouraged and comforted me as Jesus guided me into the boat over the years. Arthur said: “ Be in turmoil, battles that are peculiar to youth, but God is in the storm. He rides upon it (the storm). If He rides agree with Him and you will not sink. The storms of youth, I haven’t looked at you. The storms of youth, they leave their mark on life. But out of the storm blind unbelief is sure to error and scan His works in vain, God is His own interpreter and He will make it plain.”

Be encouraged and know that blind unbelief will certainly assist you in sinking, but trusting God and His faithfulness, knowing He rides on your life’s storms will bring peace and hope. You will not sink or fail as you trust Him, and He will bring understanding to you and make His plans clear.

In His love,

Preparation For Pentecost/Shavuot - Richard Maisenbacher

Fifty days after Passover, the Apostle Paul planned his travels so he could be in Jerusalem during Shavuot. It was to celebrate God’s faithfulness with the early wheat harvest, which increased the hopefulness for a fall harvest (Sukkot). Later, the Rabbis while searching for historical facts discovered that around the same time during Shavuot, Moses came to Mount Sinai and was given the Law.

The Jews celebrated Shavuot when they received the Torah from God in Exodus 20. The presence and the revelation of God appeared on top of the mountain in the form of fire. Torah or the Word of God was then given to them on tablets of stone. This year in 2019 Shavuot is celebrated on June 8th - 10th.

Pentecost is a Feast of the Lord recognized by believers on Sunday, June 9th, which is mentioned in Acts 2:1. In Acts 2, the presence of God fell upon the believers with tongues of fire as they began to speak in the native language of those who were listening. In the book of Jeremiah 31, he prophesied that the Spirit of God would come upon the believers and the Torah would be written on their hearts, rather than on tablets of stone.

We look forward to celebrating this Feast with Joy and thanksgiving! He has given us His written Word and continues to write His word upon our hearts. This is a time to saturate ourselves with His Word (Law) and Spirit (prayer) as we expect a fresh outpouring of His Spirit.

In His Covenant Love,

Preparing For Passover

Leviticus 23 includes Passover and Unleavened Bread, as well as Firstfruits as part of the Lord’s Feasts which we are encouraged to celebrate. The Hebrew word for Passover is “Pesach” meaning “to spring, jump or pass over something.” This refers to God’s deliverance of Israel from the bondage of Egypt which brought freedom. Passover not only typifies redemption, but prophetically it was God’s plan for world redemption by Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb. What a great reason to celebrate!

“And they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days with joy,” Ezra 6:22. I have not personally found many Believers who celebrate the Lord’s Feasts, or become excited getting rid of the leaven or yeast in their lives. They believe it may be painful or too hard to give up enjoyable/addicting habits. It may be even worse for some to lay down their mental strongholds so they can receive inner healing.

But Passover cannot start until all leaven is removed. Cleansing the home was part of the preparation. However, cleansing of the home is just the beginning. Believers know that cleansing of the home includes the cleansing of our heart.

In 1st Corinthians 5:7 Paul states: Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, just as you really are unleavened. For Christ the Passover Lamb has been sacrificed.” Because of the sacrifice of Jesus, we are already new. His death and resurrection has removed the leaven in our life. However, in a practical way, there is still leaven that we must cleanse inside and out from the influence of the world. It is a time of purifying our heart and a time to make a decision to separate our self from anything unclean.

In preparation for this Passover, beginning April 19th through April 27th, let’s cleanse our “house,” get rid of the leaven, and celebrate as we experience His presence, joy and blessings!

In His Covenant Love,

Don't Miss Your Visitation - Becky Maisenbacher

Almost everyone has expectations of God. You hope, you pray, you trust and sometimes great things happen. But it also seems at times, like He is not listening or responding to your need. You may feel your answer hasn’t come or He just doesn’t care. Maybe you are praying for relief from a challenge or health issue -maybe you are asking Him to help you with finances or work. Whatever your need, He will come and help you, but He may come to you in a way you don’t expect.

Luke chapter one tells the story of Mary. She experienced a visitation, but to her surprise is was to conceive a child. I’m sure Mary had many needs in her life, but when the angel of the Lord came to her, he spoke of heaven’s desire for her not her own needs. How did she respond? We are given a divine model, an example if you will, of how God desires for us to respond in Mary. She is a picture of surrender and humility as she speaks in Luke 1:38: “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.”

When God visits He comes to you with purpose and favor. How did the angel greet Mary? In Luke 1:28 the angel declared: “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” The word favored #5487 in the concordance is defined as “highly favored, given honor.” She was also encouraged that she was not alone - God was with her!

God will always equip you and supply all that He requires. He is pleased when you surrender to Him in humility and obedience to His request. When you choose to surrender to His plan and purpose, He will infuse you with His grace and favor, and He will bless you, your life and family and the work He assigns to you.

God gave favor to Mary for the following:
1) God wanted to bring something great into Mary’s life and into the world.
2) God’s way of doing this was unexpected and unusual. It did not fit into the culture.
3) There was a price Mary was willing to pay in accepting God’s plan for her life, family, relationships,
cultural acceptance, finances, even her good name in the city.
4) Mary had a choice whether to receive or reject what the angel brought to her - What God desired for
her life.
5) Mary chose to trust God.

Like Mary, there is a price that may include suffering and sacrifice, but the blessing of surrender to His desire will overtake the challenge and sacrifice that may accompany your visitation. A difficult lesson to learn as a believer is that happiness really has nothing to do with blessedness. Happiness relates more to being lucky, and the Lord never promised pure happiness, good luck or even favorable circumstances. The disciples are perfect examples of the challenges in the life of a believer and overcomer. God desires to bless, and His blessedness results in His indwelling, resulting in peace and contentment no matter what the circumstances may be.

James 5:11 translated in the Zodiates Bible states this verse should be translated: “Behold, we recognize those who endured as blessed;” that is to say, receiving His indwelling, and in God finding full satisfaction in spite of their suffering. Apostle Paul often spoke of the maturing process in learning to be content whether you have gain or are in lack (Philippians 4). If you look for material gain or acknowledgement from man to feel successful, you may miss your visitation and the future God desires for you.

Father, may we find favor with You, and in our surrender and choice to obey, may You bless each one with Your presence and grace, knowing that You Lord dwell within; causing us to be fully satisfied in You, knowing You are with us whatever our circumstances or life journey. Help us see with Spirit eyes what your plans are so we do not miss Your visitations.

In His Love,

Marriage - Our Living Example of Covenant - Richard Maisenbacher

One of the main aspects of understanding covenant is giving. Many marriage books today include ways of negotiating with your spouse so each can get what they want, rather than the idea of loving and giving to each other. One fear is: “If I give to them unconditionally, they will take advantage of me and I will become a doormat that they run over.” There is no way that I can address all the Christian cultural ideas that have been accepted throughout the years. Dr. Skip Moen wrote a book I highly recommend titled “Guardian Angel,” which addresses some of the cultural strongholds and what the original purpose for the helpmate (ezer in Hebrew). A few of his thoughts are also paraphrased below.

Even in Genesis man is suppose to rule, but this rule is to be compassionate, never exploiting the relationship. It includes stewardship, care, nurturing and protection. It is similar to a shepherd. Ruling is not suppose to be domination by force or the law. In Genesis 2:24 man is told to detach from precious protectors and providers and to cling (dagaq in Hebrew) to their spouse. It means a close affection and loyalty. An example is how Israel clings to God. Obviously this assumes first that the husband has an intimate relationship with the Lord and easily transfers that same closeness to his “Ezer.”

Sometimes a fear of giving the wife too much power can cause Christian husbands to begin to quote scriptures to make sure they don’t lose their authority. “I’m the head of the household and I will make all final decisions!” In covenant relationships there is a mutual submission that takes place; a giving to one another. It becomes defacto authority which develops from a decision to place myself under the direction of another, because I recognize the right of the other to be my lord, and it is in my best self interest to submit to that authority.

Dejure authority is based on the law. For instance, a policeman has the authority to give us a ticket if we are speeding and the authority comes from the municipal law. However, if the husband has any authority at all, it is based on defacto, and the wife recognizes or grants him authority, and it is in her best interest to submit. Jesus’ entire ministry is based on defacto authority. He doesn’t command us to repent or we go to prison. He invites us to recognize His right to rule, to submit to Him because it is our duty and in our best interest to submit to His authority in the covenant relationship. We volunteer to grant Him authority over our life.

When you love your spouse, you are free to love. No one is forcing you to love them. It’s voluntary. But it does not mean we have no obligations. Imagine no expectations, no commitment and no mutual covenant. Would you call that love? What if your children ignored your requests or directions? It’s the same with God. If we love Him we keep His Torah; not because we have to, but because of love and we desire to please Him. God is delighted when we love Him by obeying and submit to Him.

Ephesians 5:24-25 is a good example of covenant giving. “But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” Since God uses the marriage covenant as an earthly example of His covenant with His people, let’s remember that it is our obligation to give our love to our spouse as we give that same love to the Father. It is our joy and privilege to be able to lay our life down and please our Father, and do the same with our spouse in the marriage covenant!

In His Covenant Love,

Patience and Perseverance Brings Life - Becky Maisenbacher

When you choose to walk in a covenantal relationship with God He imparts HIs Gifts of the Spirit to you as He brings forth His Fruit of the Spirit. As you experience the mixture of life, joy as well as trials, God is continually at work maturing you to look more like Him. Galatians 5:22 explains the divine fruit as the following: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control. Just like tending a garden, watching over the growth and maturation of His fruit in your life takes time.

I’ve been reflecting lately on all the wonders and truths God has shown me and entrusted to me over the years. His program for character development has at times been very challenging, especially learning what patience looks like to Him. We find Jesus in Luke 21 giving instructions to His followers, and in verse 19 He states: “By your endurance you will gain your lives.” The word endurance is found in the concordance #5278 as Hupomeno; meaning to remain under, to endure or sustain a load of miseries, adversities, persecutions or provocations in faith and patience toward things or circumstances. What Jesus is implying here is that things are going to get tough. Life is not going to always be sweet and it is important for you to develop your gift of endurance and patience to run and finish your race.

As a child, patience is waiting for Christmas or a birthday; even the end of school for summer vacation to commence. Patience may appear as a dream of finishing school, getting a drivers license or attending college or tech schools. Times seems to pass slowly as you look forward to these life markers. Then you may dream of finding a spouse, getting married and working in a great job, or making money to buy a house or car. You wait, and wait, and wait some more. After working for many years, you dream of retirement, travel, financial stability. In all your life experiences you learn to wait, learning patience, endurance, perseverance, knowing fulfillment will come some day. You may then find yourself care taking aging parents, or trusting for healing in your body, finances, relationships or children. More patience, enduring, waiting, waiting, waiting. Now by waiting, I mean actively waiting. Life doesn’t stand still. Life rolls along, but those hopes or desires and expectations remain as we patiently and diligently live each day. Ecclesiastes reminds us in 3:1-8 there is a season for everything under heaven. Recognizing your season of life will help you grow in patience and peace as well as understanding.

Patience is often one of the most difficult fruit to develop. When we acquire the ability to wait, we then reflect more of His peace. Learning patience in God’s time is certainly not like the world’s time. Healing may come as an instant miracle or it may arrive after much perseverance. Finances may instantaneously appear if you win the lottery or an inheritance, or it may take a lifetime to acquire and save. Jesus and His disciples taught His followers the importance of learning to be patient and endure. They knew it was important for their souls, as well as mental and spiritual health. “By your patient endurance you will gain your lives (possess your soul)”, Luke 21:19. “But the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved,” Matthew 24:13. “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance, and let patience have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing,” James 1:1-4.

Patience, endurance, perseverance, whatever you choose, is foundational in a believer’s journey with God. We as children are not always very patient, but in surrendering to God’s plans and understanding the season you may be in, you will find greater peace as you learn to bow to His hands molding you into a new person and becoming more like Him. Oswald Chambers wrote in his ageless devotional, My Utmost For His Highest: “God gives us a vision, and then He takes us down to the valley to batter us into shape of that vision. It is in the valley that so many of us give up and faint. Every God-given vision will become real if we will only have patience.”

A few thoughts to help you as you practice the skill of patient endurance: 1) Realize God is not in a hurry. He has given you eternity. He changes you the most in the difficult places. I have prayers 10 years and counting as well as prophetic words 30 years and waiting. Know that He hears your cries and will perform His work in your life in His perfect time. 2) When waiting seems unbearable, ask God if there is something for you to learn or do in the situation. Ask Him to give you clarity and understanding. 3) Find peace and comfort in His love for you knowing He works all things for your good. He is changing you as you endure. 4) Plan a time each day to quiet yourself and simply rest or talk with Him. Tell Him how you feel, knowing that He is listening and in time will respond as He sets things in order.

Father, thank You that You love us so much that You allow difficult times in life to cause us to grow and mature as You mold us to be more like You. Thank You for Your divine impartation and intervention in our lives, guiding us, teaching and changing us. Help us to learn to trust You more, knowing that You desire for us to prosper and be in health, as You teach our souls to prosper (3 John 1:2). ”Let us not become weary of doing what is good, for at the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up” ( Galatians 6:9). Thank you Father!

In His Love,

Share Lovingkindness During The Race - Richard Maisenbacher

Lovingkindness or mercy is an English word defining “hesed” in the Old Testament. Hesed is a term that is included in covenant language describing relationships between people that reflect generosity or compassion that comes from love. When our relationship with God is broken, He works at renewing it, because He loves what He has created; even when we have rejected His sovereignty and try to control our own destiny. He restrains His anger and does not give up on us. Hesed has many meanings and it is difficult to define as an English expression. in His kingdom, hesed is relational, reciprocal and active.

Within the English culture when someone receives a gift, after saying “Thank you” the gratitude turns to a reciprocal gift or way of giving. In the New Testament it works this way also. God gives to us by His love and we respond as a disciple ready to give to Him. In the Old Testament it is based on hesed and in the New Testament it is called grace. Grace can be defined as: God doing something for us, by His love, that we cannot do for ourself. In other words, it describes one aspect of God’s incredible character.

In the midst of giving hesed or lovingkindness to others, you can still experience battles such as: the good fight of faith, wrestling with the enemy, and the war of denying self. Through it all, the author of Hebrews encourages us: Let us run with endurance the race that is put before us.” The word “race” is an easier way to identify the challenges of life we all face.

As we encounter various battles as we run the race, He still wants His character (hesed-mercy-grace) to be extended to His people, identifying His kingdom. We first are obligated to give to God because of His continuous gift of grace to us, and then reciprocate our giving and love to others. Regardless what we encounter in the race, let’s continue to extend lovingkindness or hesed to Him and to others!

In His Covenant Love,

Get Wisdom And Understanding! - Becky Maisenbacher

Discernment. Logic. Reasoning skills. These were all important concepts to help develop language skills in our students, during my tenure as a Speech-Language Therapist. It was important for students to not only learn their vocabulary and sentence development, but to also acquire the ability to weigh and rightly discern situations to make quality decisions. It is still important in life to gain understanding. Life works more smoothly when we have knowledge. In Proverbs we find the timeless words of wise men and Rabbi’s who taught on the ways to conduct one’s life. Some have described Proverbs as “Wisdom Literature.” We find in chapter 4 suggestions for a better less painful plan to life in the author’s wise and fatherly instruction: “Pay attention, hear intelligently and gain or recognize understanding to live life well.” He states: “Hear, O sons, the instruction of a father, and give attention that you may gain understanding, for I give you sound teaching; Do not abandon my instruction…. Keep my precepts and live. Acquire wisdom! Acquire understanding!…Do not forsake her, and she will guard you; Love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding. Prize her and she will exalt you; She will honor you if you embrace her. She will place on your head a garland of grace; She will present you with a crown of beauty.”

We can have intellectual knowledge and still end up with a very difficult life. Is it possible that our society has grown in material wealth but possibly failed in encouraging children and young people to develop their understanding and discernment, while learning to think, communicate and reason for themselves. Even Isaiah 1:18 emphasized the importance to “come and reason together.” Instead of making decisions by cultural norms, familial belief structures, he said-she said, what would happen if we were able to pause, take in and process information and respond more slowly to others and situations; while taking time to gain understanding and perspective and prayerfully seeking the Spirit of Truth who comes with divine wisdom and revelation?

Proverbs 4 closes with further guidance in verses 20-23. “My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your sight; Keep them in the midst of your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their whole body. Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.”

Father, Spirit of Truth, please come and help us to gain wisdom, revelation and understanding as we apply heaven’s principles and precepts to our lives, our relationships and decision making. Thank you for transforming our hearts to better align with you and your word. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, will give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. May the eyes of your heart be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling and what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. (Eph. 1:17-19a).

In His Love,

Reading, Writing and Running With Your Vision - Richard Maisenbacher

I admit that Habakkuk 2:2 use to be a great motivating biblical scripture to help me accomplish the goals that I set. My paraphrase…”Write the vision, make it plain so that I can run with it” was what I read and declared aloud! My business background helped me to set goals, predict the outcome and challenges, and then follow through with what needed to be done to meet the goal within the timed deadline. The only problem was I didn’t know or expect a lovely wilderness experience where nothing worked, except developing an intimate relationship with the Lord.

The last few weeks of 2018, I began to sense the Lord bringing me back to this scripture in Habakkuk. My argument of course was, “Lord, surely we do not need to write the Vision/New Years resolution for the new year, because everyone breaks them anyway.” However, I did take the opportunity to study (not just read) this Old Testament “Minor” Prophet Habakkuk and what he wrote. Minor simply means his writing was short, not that it wasn’t important. For instance, in Habakkuk 2:4 it says, “But the righteous will live by faith.” Think of how Martin Luther changed society with this incredible verse that Habakkuk wrote!

Now Habakkuk was doing his fair share of complaining about the Chaldeans (Babylonians). He questioned the fairness of God’s management of the world and how evil seems to win out over the righteous. He saw violence, lawbreaking, and injustice going unpunished. By the end of Habakkuk 2 he did conclude that because of God’s holiness, his own questions were not justified.

Part of God’s answer to him in Habakkuk 2:2 was to “Record the vision, and inscribe it on tablets, that the one who reads it may run.” I started to do a Hebrew word study on some of the English words, knowing it always brings a depth, and many times a totally different meaning to the English word in scripture. The word “vision” (chazown), means to “see, a mental sight, a dream, vision, a revelation, a prophecy.” I realized that God wanted each of us to write what He has spoken to us and make it clear.

The next part was much more than a New Year’s Resolution. The word “read” (quara) means to “proclaim, not just read it.” It was addressed to a specific recipient (us) and intended to elicit a specific response. It was not to the casual reader. It was also to name or declare the sovereignty over the things being named. Not just reading, but meditating and allowing the vision to penetrate your whole being so you may run with it.

The application of this scripture is to write out our words, prophecies, what we sense in prayer, highlighted scriptures, or how He spoke to us when we were journaling. Then, not just read them, but allow them to soak into our spirit. Mediate on them and allow the “vision” to motivate you by His Spirit. In Habakkuk 2:3 it does say: “For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hastens toward the goal, and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay.” So if the vision has not yet come to pass, the appointed time will come! Even in his waiting, Habakkuk concluded at the end in 3:18: “Yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.”

I hope you will use the beginning of 2019 to review how God has spoken and communicated His “vision” for you. Allow it to permeate you, so you will be ready to run when the appointed time reveals itself!

In His Covenant Love,