Word of Encouragement

For the Lord says, I have heard the prayers of my people in France—both those from this generation and those of your forebears.

In spite of Paul’s teaching that we are all one in Christ, there were still a considerable number of misogynistic writings from the early church fathers that have continued to influence believers today. A few examples include:How do we account for these teachings and such harsh perspective?

“The Lord gives the command [word]; the women who proclaim the good tidings are a great host.” (Ps. 68:11, NASB)

God has no intention of excluding His daughters as He orchestrates His plans for the world.

God is always drawing us into a deeper passion, into seasons of re-connecting with Himself. We each have moments when we start feeling overwhelmed by condemnation. Thoughts run through our heads like “I wish I hadn’t done that” or “I could have done that better”.

In looking back over my life, I have been able to identify at least five major strongholds that I personally had to deal with in order to be released into my destiny. I think many women will relate to a number of these on differing levels.

There is a story in Scripture that moves me to tears no matter how many times I hear it or read it. In John 8:2-11, we read about a woman caught in adultery and brought to Jesus’ feet for judgement. Her accusers wanted her stoned to death, as the justice of the law required. Instead, she was rescued and transformed by a display of grace that epitomizes what Jesus came to do through His kingdom.

“Seek God, all you quietly disciplined people who live by God’s justice. Seek God’s right ways…” (Zeph. 2:3, MSG)

Justice has always been on God’s mind. Recently, the prophets declared that 2016 releases a season when justice issues will be coming to the forefront, with a concern for the poor and human rights issues being emphasized.

God is just; therefore, He desires justice for and from His church. Influenced by the world’s system, we often equate justice with punishment alone, demanding to see the perpetrator suffer, and once that suffering is exacted, we walk away.

When revival happens, a huge number of people enter the kingdom of God. Everyone is suddenly excited about God and the possibilities of what life in Jesus can mean for their future.

I am encountering a growing number of believers who are examining the difference between the gospel of salvation and the gospel of the kingdom. Jesus said, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come” (Matt. 24:14).