From Beggar to Testimony

 From Beggar to Testimony

By JK Woodall, Ph.D.

Scripture Reference: Acts 3:1-9 (NKJV)

The story of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate shows how God transforms lives when faith meets His power. The man, lame from birth and carried daily to beg, never asked for healing. Resigned to his condition, he sought silver and gold, but Peter gave him something greater:

"Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk." (Acts 3:6, NKJV)

Two remarkable events occur: Peter sees with spiritual sight, recognizing the opportunity for transformation, and the lame man is healed, walking for the first time. Like Moses stretching his staff over the Red Sea (Exodus 14:16), Peter used what he had—faith in Jesus' name—and the impossible became possible.

This parallels the Valley of Dry Bones (Ezekiel 37:1-10), where life returned to what seemed hopeless. Both accounts show God’s power to restore. The lame man leaped, praised God, and became a living testimony, drawing others to Christ.

"And all the people saw him walking and praising God." (Acts 3:9, NKJV)

This story challenges us to move beyond resignation. Like Peter, we can give what we have—the power of Jesus’ name—to transform lives and glorify God. Let us see past circumstances and declare faith over impossibilities.

"With God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26, NKJV)

His Arrival 2024 - Merry Christmas!

 

His Arrival

By JK Woodall, Ph.D.

From the moment of humanity’s fall, a divine promise was set in motion—a Redeemer who would come to crush the head of the serpent and restore humanity to its Creator. Yet, His arrival on Earth was marked by resistance, a gambit of rulers and earthly authorities driven to extinguish the bloodline leading to Him. Their collective efforts sought to stop the Ultimate Ruler, Jesus, from fulfilling His eternal purpose.

The Foreshadowing of the Lamb

In the garden of Eden, after Adam and Eve sinned, God Himself provided garments of skin to clothe them (Genesis 3:21, NIV). This act required the sacrifice of an innocent animal, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice—Jesus, the Lamb of God who would take away the sin of the world (John 1:29, ESV). From the very beginning, God pointed to the coming of His Son as the remedy for humanity’s fall.

The Rulers Against the Promise

• Pharaoh: In Egypt, Pharaoh decreed the slaughter of all male Hebrew infants, a failed attempt to crush the Israelites, the chosen people from whom the Messiah would come (Exodus 1:15-16, NIV).

• Athaliah: The queen mother in Judah, Athaliah, nearly eradicated the royal lineage of David, through whom the Messiah was promised. Only Joash was spared, preserving the Davidic line (2 Kings 11:1-3, NKJV).

• Haman: Haman’s plot to annihilate the Jewish people in Persia was another satanic attempt to cut off the promised bloodline. Esther’s bold intervention ensured God’s plan prevailed (Esther 3:5-6, NIV; Esther 7:3-6, ESV).

• Herod: After hearing of Jesus’ birth, Herod the Great ordered the massacre of male infants in Bethlehem. Yet, God’s hand protected His Son, as the Holy Family escaped to Egypt (Matthew 2:16-18, NIV).

Hidden in Plain Sight

Despite these orchestrated attacks, the Messiah’s arrival unfolded not in grandeur but in humility. Born in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in a feeding trough, Jesus was hidden in plain sight. Shepherds rejoiced at His birth, angels proclaimed His coming, yet the world’s rulers failed to recognize Him as the King of kings (Luke 2:7-14, ESV).

The Eternal King

Even as the forces of darkness moved against Him, God’s sovereignty ensured the fulfillment of His plan. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection demonstrate that no earthly power can thwart God’s redemptive work. He is the eternal King who reigns with justice, righteousness, and truth (Isaiah 9:6-7, KJV; Revelation 11:15, NIV).

This Christmas, we celebrate not only the birth of our Savior but also the unstoppable power of God’s plan. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:5, NIV). Let us remember that Jesus was not only born to live among us but to redeem us and reign forever.

Merry Christmas and God bless you all!

JK Woodall, Ph.D.

Weekly Devotional: December 22 – December 28, 2024 Theme: Walking in HIS Image

 

Weekly Devotional: December 22 – December 28, 2024
Theme: Walking in HIS Image

As we celebrate the beauty of the Christmas season, we’re reminded that the birth of Jesus not only brought redemption but also restored the image of God within us. We were created in His image (Genesis 1:27), yet sin marred that likeness. Through Christ, we are given the power to reflect His glory, love, and righteousness to the world.

Scripture Focus:

1. Genesis 1:27 – “So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.”

   • From the beginning, humanity was set apart, designed to reflect God’s holiness, creativity, and love.

2. 2 Corinthians 3:18 – “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

   • Jesus’ birth and sacrifice opened the door for us to be continually transformed into the fullness of God’s image.

3. Colossians 3:10 – “And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.”

   • Through Christ, we are being restored and renewed to reflect God’s true nature.

Reflecting His Image in Our Lives:

1. Love Like Jesus: Let your actions, words, and thoughts mirror the compassion and selflessness Christ exemplified throughout His life.
2. Be the Light: Just as Jesus declared in Matthew 5:16, let your light shine so others may glorify God. Represent His image in all you do.
3. Embrace Renewal: Daily seek God’s presence to transform your heart and mind so that His image becomes evident in your walk.

Encouragement for the Week:
As this year comes to an end, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the one who renews and restores us to reflect God’s image. Though we are imperfect, His grace works in and through us, enabling us to live as image-bearers of the King. Whether it’s in how we forgive, love, or serve, let everything we do point back to Christ, our ultimate example.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for creating us in Your image and sending Jesus to restore what sin had broken. Help us to walk in Your likeness each day. Let our lives reflect Your love, peace, and holiness, so others may see You in us. Transform us, Lord, and use us to bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.

This week, remember that you were created with purpose and called to be a reflection of God’s light in the world. Stay rooted in His Word, and let His image shine brightly through your life.

 

Hear the Voice, Not the Noise

By JK Woodall

In the noisy chaos of the modern world, discerning the voice of Jesus can feel like an impossible task. Yet, in John 10:27, Jesus assures us, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” This profound promise highlights the spiritual connection between Christ and His followers. Just as sound waves can interfere with or cancel each other out, the noise of the world can compete with the voice of Jesus. However, by aligning ourselves with His "frequency," we can silence the distractions and focus solely on His guidance.

The Science of Sound and Its Spiritual Parallel

In physics, sound waves interact in ways that can either amplify or cancel each other. This concept, known as destructive interference, occurs when two sound waves of equal frequency but opposite phases meet, canceling each other out. Spiritually, this principle reflects how Jesus' voice cancels out the "noise" of the world when we attune ourselves to Him.

Noise in the World

The world is filled with competing sounds: the voice of fear (2 Timothy 1:7), the voice of doubt (Matthew 14:30-31), and the voice of temptation (Matthew 4:1-11). These distractions, much like persistent noise, can drown out the still, small voice of God. Elijah experienced this firsthand in 1 Kings 19:11-12, where God’s voice was not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in the gentle whisper. To hear Jesus, we must filter out the noise of life.

Tuning into the Voice of Jesus

1. Prayer as Spiritual Tuning Just as a radio must be tuned to the correct frequency to receive a clear signal, prayer aligns our hearts with God’s voice. In Philippians 4:6-7, Paul instructs us to pray and bring our concerns to God, promising peace that surpasses understanding. This peace cancels the noise of anxiety and worry.

2. The Word of God as the Frequency Guide The Bible is the ultimate guide to recognizing Jesus' voice. Hebrews 4:12 declares, “For the word of God is alive and active.” By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we learn to discern truth from lies and the eternal voice of Jesus from the fleeting noise of the world.

3. The Holy Spirit as the Amplifier Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as a guide and helper in John 14:26: “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” The Holy Spirit amplifies Jesus’ voice, helping us recognize and follow it.

Silencing Competing Voices

1. The Voice of Fear Fear often speaks the loudest, but Isaiah 41:10 reminds us: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” Jesus’ voice cancels out fear with assurance and love.

2. The Voice of Doubt Doubt whispers, "You are not enough." Yet, in Jeremiah 29:11, God’s plans for us are to prosper and give hope. Jesus’ voice reassures us of our identity and purpose.

3. The Voice of Temptation In the wilderness, Jesus countered Satan’s temptations with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). By aligning with God’s truth, Jesus silenced the tempter’s voice. We, too, can use God’s Word as our defense.

The Promise of Clarity

When we attune ourselves to Jesus’ voice, the distractions of the world fade. Isaiah 30:21 promises: “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’ By staying spiritually aligned, we ensure His voice guides us, no matter how loud the world becomes.

Practical Steps to Hear His Voice

1. Daily Devotion: Set aside time to read Scripture and meditate on God’s Word.

2. Focused Prayer: Spend intentional time in prayer, asking God to help you discern His voice.

3. Silence the Noise: Identify the "noise" in your life—be it media, negativity, or distractions—and take steps to reduce it.

4. Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage and guide you in hearing God’s voice.

Conclusion

The voice of Jesus is constant and faithful, but it requires spiritual sensitivity to recognize. By attuning ourselves to His "frequency" through prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can hear His voice above the noise of the world. In doing so, we fulfill the promise of John 10:27: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” Let us commit to hearing the voice, not the noise, and walk confidently in His guidance.

Bible Study Notes for Exodus 38:21-31 (Part II)

 

 

#Bible Study Notes for Exodus 38:21-31 (Part II) 

by: JK Woodall

12/19/2024 

Title: The Boundary  

Theme: The #Significance of Separation and Praise Leading to Judgment  — at Revival Center Hesperia California.

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#Opening Scripture  

#Exodus 38:21-31 (NKJV)  

"This is the inventory of the tabernacle, the tabernacle of the testimony, which was counted according to the commandment of Moses, for the service of the Levites, by the hand of Ithamar, son of Aaron the priest. Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made all that the Lord had commanded Moses. And with him was Aholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver and designer, a weaver of blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and of fine linen. All the gold that was used in all the work of the holy place, that is, the gold of the offering, was twenty-nine talents and seven hundred and thirty shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary. And the silver from those who were numbered of the congregation was one hundred talents and one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary. A bekah for each man (that is, half a shekel, according to the shekel of the sanctuary), for everyone included in the numbering from twenty years old and above, for six hundred and three thousand five hundred and fifty men. And from the hundred talents of silver were cast the sockets of the sanctuary and the bases of the veil: one hundred sockets from the hundred talents, one talent for each socket. Then from the one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five shekels he made hooks for the pillars, overlaid their capitals, and made bands for them. The offering of bronze was seventy talents and two thousand four hundred shekels. And with it he made the sockets for the door of the tabernacle of meeting, the bronze altar, the bronze grating for it, and all the utensils for the altar, the sockets for the court all around, the bases for the court gate, all the pegs for the tabernacle, and all the pegs for the court all around." 

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#I. The Inventory’s #Spiritual Significance  

1. **God’s Commanded Details**:  

   - Each item was listed in precise detail to emphasize its value and purpose in worship. Nothing was random or unimportant.  

   - **Key Thought**: The physical inventory of the Tabernacle reflects the spiritual inventory God requires in our lives—a detailed commitment to holiness and order.  

2. Lesson in #Stewardship:  

   - The mention of Ithamar highlights accountability in leadership. Keeping an inventory demonstrates faithful stewardship of God’s resources.  

   - **Reflection Question**: Are you being faithful with the time, talents, and treasures God has entrusted to you?  

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#II. The Tent Pegs of #Bronze (Verse 20)  

1. #Foundation of Holiness:  

   - The tent pegs symbolized the foundation of God’s dwelling place. They anchored the structure firmly, ensuring it remained stable and secure.  

   - **Spiritual Application**: In your spiritual life, are you firmly grounded in God’s Word to stand strong in the face of challenges?  

2. **Boundary of Separation**:  

   - The pegs marked the physical boundary between what was holy (the Tabernacle) and common (the world). This teaches us the importance of setting boundaries that preserve our sanctity as God’s people.  

   - **Supporting Scripture**: *“Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.”* — 2 Corinthians 6:17 (NKJV)  

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### **III. Bezalel and Oholiab: Praise and Judgment**  

1. **Bezalel — “In the Shadow of God”**:  

   - The name Bezalel means "in the shadow of God," symbolizing the closeness and covering of His presence. Through praise, we enter God's shadow, aligning our hearts with His will.  

2. **Oholiab — “Tent of the Father”**:  

   - The name Oholiab means "tent of the father," reflecting the role of righteous judgment in God's household. Proper judgment follows the worship and discernment born in God’s presence.  

3. **The Divine Process**:  

   - Bezalel and Oholiab represent the *order of transformation*: Through praise (Bezalel), we align ourselves with God’s presence, allowing Him to impart proper judgment (Oholiab).  

4. #Reflection Questions:  

   - Are you cultivating praise in your life to invite God’s wisdom?  

   - How can praise help you make godly decisions?  

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#IV. #Accountability Through the Numbers (vv. 24-31)  

1. Details Reflect #Integrity:  

   - The gold, silver, and bronze items are listed with precise measurements to demonstrate transparency and integrity.  

2. #Community Offering:  

   - The materials were provided collectively by God’s people. Everyone contributed, ensuring the Tabernacle reflected the unity and faithfulness of the nation.  

   - **Reflection**: What are you offering to build God’s Kingdom today?  

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#V. Symbolism of the Metals  

1. #Gold (Divinity and Purity):  

   - Represents God’s holiness and perfection. Used in the Holy of Holies to reflect His presence.  

2. #Silver (Redemption):  

   - Used to cast the sockets for the Tabernacle. Silver was often associated with atonement, signifying redemption as the foundation of our connection to God.  

3. #Bronze (Judgment and Strength):  

   - Represented the need for purification and endurance. Bronze sockets, hooks, and altar grates reinforced the necessity of God’s justice.  

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#VI. Practical Applications for Revival Center Hesperia  

1. **Build on a Holy Foundation**:  

   - Like the tent pegs, anchor your life in God’s truth, ensuring a strong spiritual foundation for your calling.  

2. **Embrace Praise as the Path to Judgment**:  

   - Let worship guide your decisions. Praise aligns your heart with God’s truth, enabling righteous judgment.  

3. **Take Inventory of Your Life**:  

   - Regularly examine your walk with God to ensure you are stewarding your time, talents, and resources faithfully.  

4. Commit to #KingdomBuilding:  

   - Bezalel and Oholiab remind us that building God’s Kingdom requires unity, obedience, and the use of our God-given skills for His glory.  

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#Closing #reflection  

As we study the inventory of Exodus 38:21-31, let us remember that each detail mattered to God because it reflected His holiness and purpose. From the tent pegs to the gold sockets, every element held divine significance. Similarly, our lives must reflect this same devotion to detail, holiness, and accountability.  

#Key Scripture:  

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." — 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NKJV)

Jesus and the Coin

 

Jesus and the Coin: Recognizing Ourselves as the Imago Dei and the Call to Preserve the Image

By JK Woodall

Introduction:

In Matthew 22:15-22, Jesus is confronted with a question about paying taxes to Caesar, which provides profound insight into how we, as human beings made in the Imago Dei (the Image of God), should view ourselves, others, and the world around us. Jesus’ response about the coin and whose image is on it highlights the importance of recognizing the Imago Dei in ourselves and others, and the call to preserve and honor that image. This commentary will reflect on how we are to recognize our true identity as the Imago Dei, the dangers of distorting this image, and how we can live it out in the world.

1. The Scene: Paying Taxes to Caesar

In Matthew 22:15-22 (NKJV), we read the famous passage where Jesus is asked whether it is right to pay taxes to Caesar:

“Then the Pharisees went and plotted how they might entangle Him in His talk. And they sent to Him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, ‘Teacher, we know that You are true and teach the way of God in truth; nor do You care about anyone, for You do not regard the person of men. Tell us, therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?’

But Jesus, perceived their wickedness, said, ‘Why do you test Me, you hypocrites? Show Me the tax money!’ So they brought Him a denarius. And He said to them, ‘Whose image and inscription is this?’ They said to Him, ‘Caesar’s.’

And He said to them, ‘Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’ When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him and went their way.” (Matthew 22:15-22, NKJV)

In this moment, Jesus cleverly shifts the focus from a potential political trap to a profound theological statement about authority, identity, and the nature of human beings.

2. The Significance of the Coin and the Image

Jesus asked to see a coin, which bore Caesar’s image. His question, "Whose image is this?" and the answer, "Caesar’s," provided the key to His response: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”

• Caesar's Image on the Coin: The coin, bearing Caesar's image, was rightly owed to Caesar. In the same way, the things that belong to earthly authorities should be given to them. Caesar, with his image on the coin, represented temporal authority and government. However, the coin's image and inscription also point to a deeper question about ownership, identity, and divine authority.

• The Image of God: Just as the coin bore Caesar’s image, humanity was created in the Imago Dei, the Image of God (Genesis 1:26-27, ESV). We are created to reflect God’s nature and bear His image in the world. Unlike the coin, which belongs to Caesar, we belong to God, for we are made in His image. Our lives, actions, and purposes are to reflect the Creator's character.

3. Jesus' Teaching: Give to Caesar What is Caesar’s, and to God What is God’s

Jesus’ response transcends the question about taxes. His point is not just about the proper relationship between subjects and rulers, but a deeper reminder of our true identity and our duty to God.

• Rendering to Caesar: Jesus acknowledges the reality of earthly authority, recognizing the legitimacy of government and systems in their respective domains. Paying taxes, in this sense, is a way of respecting the authority that God has established for governance.

• Rendering to God: However, the more important truth here is that while the coin may belong to Caesar, our lives belong to God. The Imago Dei means we are made to reflect God’s glory, and our ultimate loyalty and responsibility lie with Him. Our lives should not be consumed with earthly matters alone but should be offered in service to God, who has created us in His image. Jesus calls us to honor God with our lives, as our true identity and purpose are rooted in Him.

In the New Living Translation (NLT), Jesus' words are recorded as:

“Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” (Matthew 22:21, NLT)

4. The Distortion of the Imago Dei

While the Imago Dei is our true nature, sin has marred our ability to fully reflect God’s image. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 3:23 (NIV): “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Sin distorts the image of God in us, leading us to fall short of His intended purpose for our lives. The distortion of God's image can take many forms:

• Idolatry: When we place earthly things—whether wealth, power, or status—before God, we distort the image we are meant to bear. As the Israelites were warned in the Old Testament, we are not to create false images or idols but to honor the true image of God in ourselves and others (Exodus 20:4-5, ESV).

• Human Authority and Self-Reliance: Throughout human history, many have sought to claim divine status, much like Caesar did, in an effort to rule over others and manipulate the image of God for selfish gain. In doing so, they forget that we all belong to God, and no human authority should supplant God's rule over creation.

5. Restoring the Imago Dei in Christ

While humanity’s original image was marred by sin, Jesus Christ, the perfect reflection of the Imago Dei, came to restore what was lost. As Colossians 1:15 (ESV) says: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.” In Christ, we see the true fulfillment of what humanity was intended to be.

• Restoration in Christ: Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus offers the possibility of restoring God’s image in us. As believers, we are called to live as Christ lived—reflecting God’s character and purpose in the world (Romans 8:29, ESV). In Christ, we are made new and are being transformed into His likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18, NIV).

• Our Identity in Christ: By recognizing ourselves as made in the Imago Dei, we are reminded that our worth and purpose are not found in the things of this world, but in our relationship with God. Jesus’ call to give to God what is God’s reminds us that our lives are to be surrendered to Him, reflecting His glory in all that we do.

6. The Call to Preserve the Image

As bearers of the Imago Dei, we are called to preserve and honor the image of God in ourselves and others. This involves:

• Honoring God: We are to honor God with our lives, recognizing that He is the Creator, and we are His creation. Our actions, words, and thoughts should reflect His image to the world around us.

• Honoring Others: Every person is made in the Imago Dei, regardless of status, background, or condition. As we honor God’s image in others, we demonstrate love, respect, and dignity. This also calls us to fight against any form of injustice that seeks to oppress or diminish the value of human life.

• Preserving the Image: Distortion of the Imago Dei occurs when we allow sin, idolatry, or human pride to shape our lives. By living according to God’s Word and His will, we can preserve His image in our hearts and actions. This involves surrendering our lives to God, reflecting His love, justice, and mercy.

Conclusion:

Jesus’ response about the coin and the Imago Dei reminds us that while earthly authorities may claim their right to temporal things, our true identity and allegiance belong to God. We are created in His image, and our lives are to reflect His character in all we do. As believers, we are called to preserve and honor the Imago Dei—in ourselves, in others, and in the world around us—by living out the values of God’s Kingdom, which reflect His glory and purpose for all creation.

Devotional: December 8 – December 14, 2024

#Weekly Devotional: December 8 – December 14, 2024 

#Theme: Revival – Letting Jesus Revive What You Thought Was Dead in Your Life

#Scripture Focus:  

*"Then He said to me, ‘Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!’’”* – Ezekiel 37:4  

#Devotional Thought: 

As we journey through this week, let us fix our hearts and minds on the power of revival. Revival is not just about stirring emotions or gathering together for worship; it is about Jesus breathing new life into the areas of our lives that we’ve labeled as dead. Whether it’s a dream that seems unattainable, a relationship that feels irreparable, or even your spiritual fervor that has waned, Jesus specializes in bringing the dead back to life.  

Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones is a powerful reminder that nothing is too far gone for God. When we surrender our "dry bones" to Him, He speaks life over them, just as He did when He raised Lazarus from the tomb. Jesus’ power isn’t limited by time or circumstance. What you think is over can still be revived when you allow Him to step in.  

#Reflection Questions: 

1. What areas of your life feel like “dry bones” in need of revival?  

2. Are there any doubts or fears holding you back from fully surrendering them to Jesus?  

3. How can you create space this week for Jesus to speak life into those areas?  

#Prayer for Revival: 

#Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God who brings life where there was once death. I surrender the dry and lifeless areas of my life to You. Speak Your word over me, and breathe new life into my heart, my mind, and my spirit. Revive my hope, my joy, and my purpose in You. I trust that what seems impossible to me is entirely possible through You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.*  

#Action Steps:  

- #Daily Word: Read Ezekiel 37:1-14 and reflect on how God’s power transforms what seems lost.  

- **Prayer Focus:** Dedicate time each day to pray specifically for revival in your personal life, your family, and your community.  

- #Faith in Action: Write down one “dead” situation you will surrender to Jesus this week, and commit to trusting Him for revival.  

Closing #Encouragement:  

Revival begins in the heart, and it starts when we invite Jesus into our brokenness. This week, expect Him to move. Watch as He revives what you thought was gone and restores what you thought was lost. Trust Him, and let His resurrection power bring you back to life.

 

The Real Enemy

By: JK Woodall, Ph.D.

To all My Fellow Saints in Jesus Christ,

“For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” — Luke 9:56

Throughout the Scriptures, humanity has often misidentified its true enemy. We see this misunderstanding reflected in the hearts of individuals, communities, and even nations. But as we examine the life and mission of Jesus Christ, it becomes abundantly clear: the real enemy is not a political power or external oppressor, but the pervasive forces of sin and death that separate humanity from God.

The Lesson of Exodus 2

In Exodus 2:11-14, Moses, sensing his divine call to deliver his people, kills an Egyptian who is beating a Hebrew. The next day, when Moses confronts two Israelites fighting, they reject him, saying:

“Who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian?” (Exodus 2:14)

Here we see fear and rejection. The Israelites were not ready to recognize Moses as their deliverer. His act of physical deliverance—killing the Egyptian—only deepened their confusion and fear. Moses’ approach pointed to a truth humanity has struggled to grasp: salvation cannot be brought about through external force alone. The hearts of the people must first be prepared.

John the Baptist and the Messiah’s Mission

This same tension arises in the New Testament. In Matthew 11:2-3, John the Baptist, imprisoned and awaiting what he assumed would be the Messiah’s triumphant overthrow of Israel’s enemies, sent his disciples to ask Jesus:

“Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

John, like many in Israel, expected a Messiah who would destroy their Roman oppressors and establish a visible kingdom of power. But Jesus’ mission was far greater. He responded by pointing to His works:

“Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” (Matthew 11:4-6)

Jesus’ response made it clear: He came not to destroy earthly enemies but to heal, restore, and proclaim the Kingdom of God. His mission was to address the root cause of humanity’s suffering—sin and death—through His sacrifice on the cross.

Identifying the Real Enemy

The Israelites in Exodus 2 feared Moses, just as many feared Jesus. They misidentified their savior as a threat because they did not understand their true enemy. If Jesus had come in judgment, as John and others expected, humanity would have faced immediate condemnation. Instead, Jesus offered salvation:

1. Sin — The rebellion that separates humanity from God. Jesus came to bear the penalty of sin, offering forgiveness and reconciliation through His blood (Romans 3:23-25).

2. Death — The consequence of sin and the great enemy of humanity. Through His resurrection, Jesus defeated death and promised eternal life to all who believe (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).

These are the true enemies that enslave and oppress. Political powers and earthly kingdoms pale in comparison to the bondage of sin and the finality of death. Jesus’ mission was to liberate humanity from these ultimate foes, not through force, but through grace, truth, and sacrifice.

A Savior Who Saves, Not Destroys

The contrast between the Israelites’ reaction to Moses and John the Baptist’s question about Jesus reveals a profound truth: fear and misunderstanding often lead to rejection of the Savior. If Jesus had come as a conquering king, destroying Rome and other perceived enemies, many would have responded with fear rather than faith. They, like the Israelites in Moses’ time, were not yet ready to receive the salvation God offered.

Jesus’ first coming was not about judgment but salvation. As He Himself declared:

“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” (John 3:17)

This salvation required humility and a cross. It required Jesus to endure rejection, suffering, and death so that humanity could be reconciled to God.

The Lesson for Today

As Saints, we must recognize the real enemy. It is not the challenges we face in the world—be they political, social, or personal—but the sin that seeks to corrupt and the death that seeks to claim. Like John the Baptist, we may sometimes question God’s methods, expecting immediate deliverance from our circumstances. But Jesus reminds us that His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Let us not stumble over the Savior’s approach. Instead, let us trust in His perfect plan and proclaim the good news that Jesus has already defeated the real enemy. Through His cross and resurrection, we have victory over sin and death and the promise of eternal life.

To Him be all glory, honor, and praise!

Welcome to December 2024 - Your New Month of Walking in Authority

Walking in Authority

By: Pst. JK Woodall

Greetings in the Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

As we step into the final month of this year, we are reminded of the power and authority that God has granted us through Christ Jesus. December is not just a time of reflection but a season to boldly walk in the authority bestowed upon us as believers. Authority is not merely a position; it is an active demonstration of faith, trust, and obedience to God’s Word.

Walking in Authority Means:

1. Standing Firm in Your Identity

   • The Word declares, "Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you" (Luke 10:19). This month, embrace who you are in Christ. You are a child of the Most High, an heir of His promises, and a warrior equipped for victory.

2. Declaring God’s Promises

   • Walking in authority requires speaking life into your circumstances. The Bible says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue" (Proverbs 18:21). This December, let your words align with God’s truth. Declare peace over your home, health over your body, and abundance over your life.

3. Taking Ground for the Kingdom

   • Authority is active. Just as Joshua was commanded to tread wherever the soles of his feet went (Joshua 1:3), so are we called to claim new territory for the Kingdom of God. Whether it is in your workplace, community, or family, this is the season to advance with courage and purpose.

A Time of Reflection and Forward Movement

As 2024 comes to a close, reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout the year. Each trial and triumph has prepared you for what lies ahead. Walking in authority is not just about what we achieve but how we stand as ambassadors of Christ, representing His love and truth to a world in need.

Action Steps for December:

1. Pray Boldly: Approach the throne of grace with confidence, knowing that your prayers have power (Hebrews 4:16).

2. Serve Faithfully: Use your gifts to bless others, demonstrating the authority of Christ through acts of love and service.

3. Live Expectantly: Anticipate God’s hand moving mightily in your life and the lives of those around you.

This December, let us not only prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior but also step into the new year equipped and ready to walk in greater authority. Together, let us proclaim that Jesus is Lord and advance His Kingdom with unwavering faith.

In His Authority and Grace,

Pst. JK Woodall