Power and Deception

The other evening, I got a call from a scam artist representing himself as someone working for Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes.  According to him, I was a second place winner of approximately 19 million dollars and he needed to give me detailed instructions on how to claim my winnings.  Surprisingly, the man was very thorough in explaining the claim process and of course, the small fee I had to pay up front to receive my claim receipt.  He stated that I had to act immediately or I would forfeit my winnings.  Everything the man said seemed credible.  He was professional and polite.  He even provided a website, check number, package code and other details that could persuade anyone into thinking this was really true.  But when I questioned him about the upfront fee and requested another point of contact to verify that I was a winner, the once polite man turned ugly.

In a tone of disgust, the man scolded me stating that I needed to stop questioning a “blessing from God” and that “God works in mysterious ways.”  Wow.  Really?  At first, I was shocked that he tried to use the name of God to manipulate and defraud me.  On top of that, he acted as if I was unappreciative of what God was doing for me. 

Very calmly, I told the man that I would not be paying for a claim receipt and thanked him for the opportunity.  The man could not understand why I had an issue with this simple process and why I would deny a “blessing” of this magnitude.  Anyway, I hung up the phone.  About 15 minutes later, he called back to make sure I realized I was about to forfeit my winnings.  He even called again a third time, but my husband handled it.  I was then reminded of how wickedness works.

His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and fraud:
under his tongue is mischief and vanity.
– Psalm 10:7

Beginning with Eve, Satan always twists God’s words and takes them out of context with the sole purpose to deceive.  He likes to create doubt in our minds by questioning and confusing the truth of God.

And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: – Genesis 3:4

You must be aware that wickedness has an agenda for your life:

  •         lure you into disobedience and foolishness
  •         create unnecessary hardships
  •         deceive you into hardening  your heart against God
  •          subdue God’s power within you

It is so important to seek the Word of God and understand it for yourself.  When you spend time with God, you become familiar with His ways and His power.  You will gain spiritual discernment to easily recognize a true blessing of God.  A personal relationship with Him is the best protection against all wickedness and deception.  Now is always a good time to start seeking Him!

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory,
may give unto you the spirit of wisdom
and revelation in the knowledge of him:
– Ephesians 1:17

Power To Do The Impossible

As mentioned in a recent press release, I have always admired the historical figure, Harriet Tubman.  Not only because she led many slaves to freedom, but Harriet was known for her unwavering faith and dependence on God.   She always gave honor to Jesus for His guidance, protection and supernatural strength to endure the harsh conditions on the long journey to freedom.   Despite the fact that Harriet could not read, she would memorize scriptures that were read to her.  She would recall them in song to encourage herself and others.  She realized the power of meditation, confession and praise.  

Tubman’s biography shares many accounts of her total dependence on God to do something that seemed impossible for one person, especially a woman.  During the 1850s, it was believed that a person of such strength, dedication and courage must be a man.  Harriet sought God and experienced supernatural power to do a heroic feat!   She never took credit for her unselfish desire to free others.  She knew it was God who empowered her and thanked Him continuously for His healing, grace and wisdom.  Her life inspires me to think big and trust God to do something against all odds.  If there is something you feel is impossible for you, trust God and experience His power!

But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible;
but with God all things are possible. – Matthew 19:26

Who is in need of Power?

Anyone who is doing something they cannot do in their own strength needs power to go beyond, to have victory or to make history.   For some, power is needed to move forward from loss, devastation or betrayal.  Others need power to achieve success for new responsibilities and greater opportunities.  People often search for power from many different sources hoping to create a life they always dreamed.    However, God is the ultimate source of power that already dwells inside of you.  The key is to seek Him so that you can tap into the wisdom, love and power of the Creator.  God’s power overcomes evil, torment, curses, lack, bondage, depression, fear and condemnation.  This year make God and His power a priority in your life.   There is only victory to gain!

Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. – 1 John 4:4

What is your Power Scripture for 2013?

There have been many times in life where I have confessed a Power Scripture.  It is a Scripture that immediately motivates and encourages me in whatever situation I may be facing.  It is also my defense to block fear from entering into my thoughts.  Whether I feel frustration building or I am super-excited, my Power Scripture brings peace in my spirit.  I often recite it in the morning and sometimes after a long day.

Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side.  – Psalm 71:21

That has been my Power Scripture for several years.  It is discussed in Week 40: Comfort and Strength in the book.  These simple words have provided so much extra strength in my life.  God will increase my greatness (efforts, abilities, righteousness, results), and comfort me on every side (in any situation, in every area, at any time).  This Scripture has been established in my heart and brings an assurance of God’s love when no one else is around.  It will do the same for you when you meditate it and believe.

Do you have a Power Scripture

If not, this year can be the perfect time to search for one that speaks directly to you.  It will become a source of strength and power as you face the trials of life.  A continual dose of the Word of God is essential for victorious living.
Please share your Power Scripture!

How Do You Define POWER?

Power (noun): force, energy; ability or strength; the faculty of doing or moving; that quality in any natural body which produces a change or makes an impression on another body

 

I have always been fascinated with power.  Something about its presence commands respect whether its among humans, nature or animals.  I like when power is shown to unite people, build up communities, liberate nations, perform miracles – you know, all the good stuff power can do.  Before looking in the Word of God, power meant control over my life and circumstances.  Now, it has expanded to mean that nothing in life is impossible.  Absolutely nothing!

What does POWER mean to you?