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Our First Responder

Dear Reader,

Six years ago this month, I published my first blog post. Throughout the years, The Lord has had me write on various topics to strengthen our walk with Him. As I approached this Anniversary month, I sensed The Lord leading me to write about a foundational truth for the life of a Born Again Christian. What you are about to read is paramount to victorious living in these end times.

My prayer for all of us is that we will Embrace The Heart of God in His Word and be Responsive Vessels of Life.

Responding With You,
Clare

Psalm 107:20 (AMPC);

“He sends forth His Word and heals them and rescues them from the pit and destruction.”

Several months ago, the state that I live in advised us to prepare for a possible hurricane; as I started to pray over the situation, The Word of The Lord came to me saying:

“The Word of God is Our First Responder!”

My friend, “The Word of God, Our First Responder,” penetrates the “Eye Wall” of every storm cell that comes our way! How? By Bringing Swift Arrows of Healing and Deliverance on the scene of every “hit and run” enemy attack! Being rescued from “the pit and destruction” comes as we respond by speaking “God’s Word First” in our time of need. Developing the habit of speaking God’s Word First, we become what I call “Word Attendants.” Born Again Christians who “Trust in The Lord with all our hearts, and lean not on our understanding.” Proverbs 3:5 (MEV).

A WORD ATTENDANT

Proverbs 4:20-22 (AMPC);

“My son, attend to My Words; consent and submit to my sayings.” “Let them not depart from your sight; keep them in the center of your heart.” “For they are life to those who find them, healing and health to all their flesh.”

My friend, “attending” to The Word of God ignites a passion for The Lord. We are creating a desire for the depth and meaning of His Word to be firmly Anchored within our hearts. Committing to daily act on what God’s Word “Says” in the everyday affairs of our lives strengthens our faith in Him. Developing a solid root system in our walk with God allows His Word to not “depart from our sight.” It’s essential to Maintain Eye Contact With God by making daily Bible Study, Reading, and Meditation of His Word a way of life. Engaging these intimacy principles keeps His Word in “The Center of Our Hearts.”

“What is the Result of being “A Word Attendant?”

The Word of God Becomes “Our First Responder!” Bringing “Life, Healing and Health to all our flesh.” In a world full of chaos and turmoil, this is our Call of Duty, and we cannot neglect it!

A CALL OF DUTY

John 10:27 (TPT);

“My own sheep will hear My Voice and I know each one, and they will follow me.”

Following The Voice of The Father is “The Call of Duty” for each of us as “Sheep” of The Most High God.

In the natural realm, a First Responder’s “Call of duty” is to:

Preserve Life, Prevent Deterioration of Life, and Promote Life Recovery.

First Responders primarily administer “First Aid,” which is the needed medical attention given during an emergency. I am so grateful for these courageous, highly trained professionals who often risk their lives to help save other’s lives. May we never stop praying Psalm 91 over our 911 Responders in Jesus’ Name, Amen!

In The Kingdom of God, our “Call of duty” is to hear The Voice of The Holy Spirit and quickly obey His direction to:

Speak Life, Preserve Life, Prevent and Reverse Deterioration of Life while Promoting the Recovery and Creation of Life.

God achieves this through us by administering “Word Aid.” God Speaks from His Word through our mouths as we release Him into the atmosphere, “Aiding” our fellow men. My friend, Divine CPR from The Word of God comes from our natural response as “Word Attendants.” Being a Conduit for Divine Spiritual Resuscitation during an enemy’s attack stems from our knowledge that it is “The Spirit Who Gives Life!”

THE LIFE GIVER

John 6:63 (AMPC);

“It is The Spirit Who gives life [He is The Life-Giver]; the flesh conveys no benefit whatever [there is no profit in it]. The Words (truths) that I have been Speaking to you are Spirit and Life.”

When The Holy Spirit Dispatches The Word of God To Us, He Dispatches The Grace and Power needed To See His Will Come To Pass, In Jesus’ Name! We have the Vital Honor of Co-Laboring with “The Life Giver” with every act of Spiritual CPR we perform.

Proverbs 4:22 ( AMPC) says that God’s Word IS “Life to those who find them, healing and health to all their flesh.”

Our heroic “First Responders” are trained to naturally “Preserve Life. ” In the realm of Christianity as “First Responders” of God’s Word, we prepare to Supernaturally “Bring life, healing, and health,” not just to our flesh; we also train to speak life, healing, and health to the flesh of those around us.

John 14:12-14 (TPT);

“I tell you this timeless truth; The person who follows me in faith, believing in Me, will do the same mighty miracles that I do—even greater miracles than these because I go to be with My Father.” “For I will do whatever you ask Me to do when you ask Me in My name. And that is how The Son will show what The Father is really like and bring Glory to Him.” “Ask Me anything in My Name and I will do it for you!”

As Spiritual First Responders, we must keep on the frontlet of our hearts this timeless truth:

Responding With God’s Word First is Following Him in Faith.

Our Victories on behalf of The Kingdom of God are imminent as we practice and apply these principles of faith.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

There is an old saying, “Practice makes perfect,” I like to think about it this way, “What I practice in my heart will be perfected in my life.” ‘Hiding God’s Word in our heart allows Him to Work Perfectly through our lives! Glory To God!

Psalm 119:11 (NKJV);

“Your Word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.”

Hiding The Word of God in our hearts as “Spiritual First Responders” keeps us out of the snare of sin. By developing a habit of what is “Good, Pure, and Holy,” we reject the pull of the flesh to disobey The Will of God. Instead, we “Attend” to God’s Word by being “Present” with our heart as we Apply His Word. By Deploying His Word in Faith without “feeling or seeing” circumstances change, “The Perfected Word” (Jesus Christ) becomes a spoken lethal weapon against the enemy! Bringing Supernatural results to every situation that we may encounter! Glory To God!

Ephesians 6:17 (TPT);

“Embrace the power of salvation’s full deliverance, like a helmet to protect your thoughts from lies. And take the Mighty Razor-Sharp Spirit-Sword of The Spoken Word of God.”

Taking “The Mighty Razor-Sharp Spirit-Sword of The Spoken Word of God” to a lost and hurting world is the “Call of Duty’ of EVERY child of God! Don’t buy into the enemy’s lies, my friend, “Our Heavenly First Responder” becomes a tangible Presence of Healing and Hope THROUGH US, God’s Word Responders on Earth as it is in Heaven!

Be Strong and Live Free…….Boldly For Him!

Psalm 46:1 (NKJV);

“God is our Refuge and Strength, a Very Present Help in Trouble.”

© 2023 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo by: Spencer Davis

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Birthing A Deliverer

Can this be happening? She’s pregnant again! All Hannah wants to do is run into her tent and hide! “Birthing a Deliverer” seems like an impossible dream to her, and Peninnah’s taunts are becoming unbearable! Safely out of sight, crying uncontrollably, Hannah buries her head into a pillow, trying hard to forget that she is in a polygamous marriage.

Emotionally exhausted, she wonders how her husband Elkanah could have taken Peninnah as a secondary wife?! Isn’t she “worth more to him than ten sons?” If it weren’t for the laws of the land, Hannah’s love for God, and devotion to Elkanah, she would have left for Jerusalem long ago. However, a Deep and Holy desire to “Birth a Deliverer” keeps growing in Hannah’s heart, and she won’t be denied!

ARE YOU PREGNANT?

Spiritual and natural pregnancies can sometimes be uncertain because we may not perceive that we are pregnant. Since we don’t readily see the signs of pregnancy, we can forget that we are. All we know is that we are suddenly overwhelmed, uncomfortable, and challenged. We may not realize there is a “Peninnah,” an assignment of the enemy dispatched against us!

Why?

To keep us from “Birthing a Deliverer!”

Merriam-Webster Dictionary:

DELIVERER: One that saves from danger or destruction.

Never forget that nobody else can “Birth The Deliverer” that God has called you to birth “For such a time as this!” Ref. Esther 4:14 (b). The fruit of your womb is a God Sent Solution to a lost and hurting world! An answer that has the ability through God to “save from danger or destruction.” Don’t allow the taunts of a “Peninnah” to cause you to question or miscarry your God-Given Deliverer!

Who is “Peninnah?”

Her name means “coral.” The razor-like coral can potentially wound or kill if touched, cut, and left untreated.

1st Samuel 1:1-11 (AMPC)

“There was a certain man of Ramathaim-Zophim, of the hill country of Ephraim, named Elkanah, son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite.” “He had two wives, one named Hannah and the other named Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.” “This man went from his city year by year to worship and sacrifice to the Lord of Hosts at Shiloh, where Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were the Lord’s priests.”

“When the day came that Elkanah sacrificed, he would give to Peninnah his wife and all her sons and daughters portions [of the sacrificial meat]. “But to Hannah, he gave a double portion, for he loved Hannah, but the Lord had given her no children.” “[This embarrassed and grieved Hannah] her rival provoked her greatly to vex her because The Lord had left her childless.” “So it was year after year; whenever Hannah went up to the Lord’s House, Peninnah provoked her, so she wept and did not eat.”

“Then Elkanah, her husband, said to her, Hannah, why do you cry? And why do you not eat? And why are you grieving? Am I not more to you than ten sons?” “So Hannah rose after they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh. Now Eli the priest was sitting on his seat beside a post of the temple (tent) of the Lord.” “And {Hannah} was in distress of soul, praying to the Lord and weeping bitterly.” “She vowed, saying, O Lord of Hosts, if You will indeed look on the affliction of Your handmaid and [earnestly] remember, and not forget Your handmaid but will give me a son, I will give him to The Lord all his life; no razor shall touch his head.”

ASKING FOR A DELIVERER

Hannah is upright before the Lord. She doesn’t ask God for revenge against Peninnah or Elkanah; she “Asks For A Deliverer!” A son that she vows to give back to The Lord as a Priest. That is what the scripture means when Hannah prays, “no razor shall touch his head.”

The sharp “coral” edge of Peninnah’s cutting words and Elkanah’s indifference to Hannah’s barrenness could not defile her heart! Hannah is determined to “Birth A Deliverer,” A son who will one day replace Hophni and Phinehas, the evil sons who serve as Priests under their father, Eli. Hannah’s prayer so moved the Heart of God that He “remembered” her request.

1st Samuel 1:19-22 (AMPC);

“The family rose early the next morning, worshiped before The Lord, and returned to their home in Ramah. Elkanah knew Hannah, his wife, and The Lord remembered her.” “Hannah became pregnant and in due time bore a son and named him Samuel [heard of God]. Because she said, I have asked him of The Lord,” “And Elkanah and all his house went up to offer The Lord the yearly sacrifice and pay his vow.” “But Hannah did not go, for she said to her husband, I will not go until the child is of age, and then I will bring him, that he may appear before The Lord and remain there as long as he lives.”

A COVENANT WOMB

Hannah could have asked for a son she could raise, yet she chooses the greater “A Covenant Womb” and “tithes” her womb by offering to God the best, Her “First Born” son. Hannah understands her pregnancy is “A Covenant” between her and God. What an essential truth that you and I must remember. Whenever we are pregnant with a “Promise from God,” we are pregnant in “A Covenant with God.” There is “A Covenant In Our Womb,” and that “Covenant” must come forth, In Jesus’ Name!

Merriam-Webster Dictionary:

COVENANT: A written agreement or promise usually under seal between two or more parties, especially for performing some action.

How do we safely carry our “Covenant Promises” to full term with a healthy delivery?

By being committed to the process! You see, when God calls us to pregnancy, He calls us to the process. Every pregnancy is a process from conception to gestation to the water breaking to the birth. We may have cravings in both spiritual and natural pregnancies at each process stage. Feeding our growing baby with the proper spiritual and natural nutrients is utilizing Godly Wisdom for optimum birth results. Creating a nurturing environment that develops a healthy baby while ensuring safe delivery.

PREGNANCIES ARE PROPHECIES

Like Hannah, our pregnancies are also prophecies. Each prophecy is a God-Given Promise with a name. For Hannah, the name was “Samuel,” for you, the name could be Sarah or Peter or the cure for cancer or the name of a new business, ministry, or the preparation process for marriage; the list is endless.

What we have to keep at the forefront of our minds is that the enemy hates our pregnancies. He will send a “Peninnah” to discourage us so that we miscarry or abort God’s Promises, which are His Prophecies in Motion for our lives.

Ephesians 6:12 (TPT);

“Your hand-to-hand combat is not with human beings, but with the highest principalities and authorities operating in rebellion under the heavenly realms. For they are a powerful class of demon-gods and evil spirits that hold this dark world in bondage.”

Why does the enemy hate pregnancy so much?

The enemy hates pregnancy because he knows, “You Are Deliverers!” One called to “Birth A Deliverer!” Your womb nurtures the spiritual and natural assignments of God’s Presence, Power, and Purpose! Think about it, when you were born, your mother “Delivered” you. She is a “Deliverer” who “Birthed A Deliverer,” YOU!!! I sense by The Holy Spirit that I am to remind you of something VERY IMPORTANT RIGHT NOW:

“THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN UNWANTED PREGNANCY IN THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN!”

AND…..

“THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN UNWANTED MOTHER IN THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN!”

No matter the circumstances surrounding your “own birth” or pregnancy, God wants you to know that HE IS LIFE. Therefore, THE life you carry in your womb is “A Covenant With Him!” You Are Pregnant With a Covenant from God, and that child “His Promise” must come forth In Jesus’ Name!

Psalm 139:13-18 (AMPC);

“For you did form my inward parts; You did knit me together in my mother’s womb.” “I will confess and praise You for You are fearful and wonderful and for the awful wonder of my birth! Wonderful are Your works, and that my inner self knows right well.” “My frame was not hidden from You when I was being formed in secret [and] intricately and curiously wrought [as if embroidered with various colors] in the depths of the earth [a region of darkness and mystery].” “Your Eyes saw my unformed substance, and in Your book, all the days [of my life] were written before ever they took shape when as yet there was none of them.” “How precious and weighty also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them!” “If I could count them, they would be more in number than the sand. When I awoke, [could I count to the end} I would still be with You.”

Beautiful, Cherished Friend, God Is With You! Your Pregnancy and Delivery are Precious in His Sight!

“Be Strong and Live Free As You Birth…… Boldly For Him!”

© 2023 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo By: Andriyko Podilnyk

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Turn The Page

Jeremiah 29:11 (AMPC);

“For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says The Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.”

Have you ever had the thought….

What if I could just start over?

Friend, I have good news for you! You can start over! You can create a Whole New Chapter in Life! God is waiting to reveal His Master Blueprint that has been inside of you all along. “Written in Red” is A Blueprint that God specifically created for you before time began. Some of you reading this blog may need to “Turn the Page” on a segment of your life. The hopes, dreams, and plans that you made abruptly came to a spiraling end, and it seems like there’s no way out. I can assure you, my friend, there is “A Way Out” you can “Turn the Page!”

GOD’S BLUEPRINT

God’s Blueprint for our Life is well thought out and Divinely Authored for us, and it consists of “welfare and peace and not evil.” When God thinks of us, my friend, he thinks “WELL” of us! Why? “To give us Hope in our outcome!” Which is His Will for our Life.

We first need to know that God’s Blueprint for our lives starts with Eternal life!

John 3:16-18 (TPT);

“For this is how much God loved the world-He gave His One and Only Unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes In Him will never perish but experience Everlasting Life.” “God did not send His Son into the world to judge and condemn the world, but to be its Savior and rescue it!” “So now there is no longer any condemnation for those who believe In Him, but the unbeliever already lives under condemnation because they do not believe in the name of God’s Beloved Son.”

The only way to “Turn The Page in Victory” and receive “Hope in Our Final Outcome” is to know Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior. Before we go any further, my friend, I invite you to make that decision right now if you haven’t already. Why? So that you can receive the full benefit and understanding of God’s Plan for your life with every page that you turn in Him!

A PRAYER FOR SALVATION

Father God, by an act of my will and the desire of my heart, I turn away from the sins and distractions of my life as I lay them at your feet in repentance. I acknowledge that Your Son Jesus Christ Died in my place at Calvary. I openly dedicate my heart to You, Jesus, as I Receive You into my heart and Declare that You ARE my Lord and Savior and soon coming King! Thank You, Jesus, for showing me how to effectively live for You every day of my life as a Born Again Christian Amen!

Congratulations, my friend! As a new Believer and Follower of Jesus Christ, you have just received the Master Plan of Salvation! You have “Turned the Page” from death to life!   

The Next Step? Learning How to hear The Voice of The Holy Spirit as He “Guides you into all truth.“ Ref John 16:13 (a). God’s Truths lay the groundwork for a life well lived through Him.

THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit is “The Spirit of God.” He is also “The Spirit of Truth.” God has placed Him in our lives to Speak to our hearts and Show us “The Way,” “The Plan” that God has prepared for us. Yielding to The Holy Spirit’s Guidance keeps us from deviating from God’s Master Plan.   

Romans 8:14 (AMPC);

“For all who are led by The Spirit of God are sons of God.”

The Passion Translation provides some fascinating insight into Romans 8:14 for us;

“The mature children of God are those who are moved by The Impulses of The Holy Spirit.”

Notice that to be “moved by The Impulses of The Holy Spirit,” it takes being “mature children of God.” In other words, “child-like faith” is essential in “Turning The Page” from one season of life to another, going from “Glory to Glory,” following The Blueprint that God has Personally designed for our lives.

CHILD-LIKE FAITH

What does “Child like Faith” look like?

Luke 18:17 (TPT);

“Learn this well unless you receive the revelation of The Kingdom Realm the same way a little child receives it; you will never be able to enter in.”

“Child-like faith” is a joyful, wide-eyed wonderment at the plans and purposes that God reveals to us.

With The Holy Spirit’s Guidance, we “enter into The Kingdom Realm” Blue Print for our lives as excitedly as an eager child rips open their presents on Christmas morning! This red-hot anticipation for God’s Will reveals our strength and trust in Him. Daily “Turning the Pages” of our lives without fear of the future, we grow in our intimacy with God.

Psalm 139:5-6 (TPT);

“You’ve gone into my future to prepare the way, and in kindness you follow behind me to spare me from the harm of my past. With Your Hand of love upon my Life, You impart a Blessing to me.” “This is just too wonderful, deep, and incomprehensible! Your understanding of me brings me wonder and strength.”

No matter where we find ourselves today, God has already “gone into our future” and “prepared the way!” His Presence IS our Divine Protection as we REST in Him! My friend, trusting God with our lives keeps us on the same page with Him, Strong and Blessed in Jesus’ Name! Now that’s a Book worth reading!  

GOD’S BOOK 

We are a part of the bigger picture of God’s Divine Plan for Eternity! He has Personally Written a Book about each of us in Heaven! 

Within The Library of God’s Heart is a Book with YOUR NAME on it!

Psalm 139:16 (TPT);

“You saw who You created me to be before I became me! Before I’d ever seen the light of day, the number of days you planned for me were already recorded in Your Book.”

What’s so exciting about God’s Book for our lives is that it records explicitly the steps we are to take to fulfill “His Will On Earth as it is in Heaven.” Ref. Matthew 6:10 (b).

Ephesians 2:10 (Amp);

“For we are His workmanship [His masterwork, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set] so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us.].”

My friend, we are “a work of art,” a “brushstroke of life,” Created to “Light up The World” for the cause of Jesus Christ! Let’s “Turn The Pages” of our Life today, “living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us” to live!

Be Strong and Live Free………Boldly For Him!

© 2023 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Sara KurfeB

Psalm 16:11 (AMPC);

“You will show me the PATH OF LIFE; in Your Presence is fullness of joy, at Your Right Hand there are pleasures forevermore.”

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Holy Hunger

Dear Friends,

What are you hungry for? Five years ago the first “Boldly For Him Blog” was birthed. Part of my assignment is to be numbered among an army of modern day Holy Spirit Led Scribes. Lovers of God who are called to “Rightly Divide the Word of Truth,” (ref.) 2nd Timothy 2:15 (b). To feed this hungry world with written manna from the Heart of God!

As you read this re-released “Anniversary Blog,” that I originally wrote for another site, my prayer is that a, “Holy Hunger” will stir within you!

To, “Be Strong and Live Free…….Boldly For Him!”

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

Much Love,

-Clare-

“It’s Time to Eat!” Years ago, one of my former Pastors told the congregation a humorous story that I never forgot. He was visiting a senior home preparing to preach a message when all of a sudden, one of the resident ladies stood up and said, “It’s time to eat!” In “the twinkling of an eye,” there was a mass exodus to the dining room, and he was left standing by himself with Bible in hand. The natural hunger of these precious seniors overrode their desire for God. All too often, like these seniors, our natural appetites prevail over our spiritual needs. The result? God’s Word goes un-touched in our lives. When this happens, we must develop a “Holy Hunger” for God and His Word. How? By not allowing ourselves to become “Superficial Seekers.”

Superficial Seekers

My friend, if you and I live life on our terms and not God’s Terms, we become “Superficial Seekers.” People who strive for “Spiritual Food” through natural means alone.

John 6:27 (TPT);


“Why would you strive for food that is perishable and not be passionate to seek the food of eternal life, which never spoils? I, the son of Man, Am ready to give you what matters most, for God The Father has destined Me for this purpose.”


Jesus addresses a group of “superficial seekers” who witness His miracles and healing power. They are among the five thousand miraculously fed when He multiplies five barley loaves and two small fish. Though their stomachs are satiated, their souls are empty. They do not develop a “Holy Hunger” for “The Bread of Life,” Jesus Christ. Their empty souls keep them from recognizing that The Son of God is offering to them, “what matters most.” These “superficial seekers” are more concerned with what is in Jesus’ Hand rather than what is in His Heart! They learn to feast on “The Diet of Compromise!”

The Diet of Compromise


Merriam Webster Dictionary:
DIET = Habitual nourishment
Oxford Languages Dictionary:
COMPROMISE = accept standards that are lower than is desirable.


One way to frustrate the Word of God in our lives is to choose “The Diet of Compromise!” By ‘accepting standards that are lower than desirable’ in our Christian walk, spirit, soul, and body, we no longer recognize our undeniable need for “The Bread of Life,” Jesus Christ.

John 6:35-37 (TPT);


“Jesus said to them, I Am The Bread of Life. Come every day to Me, and you will never be hungry. Believe in Me, and you will never be thirsty.” “Yet I’ve told you that even though you’ve seen Me, you still don’t believe in Me.” “But everyone My Father has given to Me, they will come. And all who come to Me, I will embrace and will never turn them away.” What a strong Bible verse! 


The enemy of “Holy Hunger” is “The Diet of Compromise.” We compromise our faith through unbelief, which leads us to frustrate The Word of God in our lives! By tolerating a spiritually substandard diet of compromise, we introduce “spiritual parasites” into our system (our walk with God.)

Spiritual Parasites

“Spiritual Parasites” of the “self-life” undoubtedly interfere with the digestion of God’s Word. Potentially leading us into situations that could cost us our lives!

Galatians 5:19-21 (TPT);


“The cravings of the self-life are obvious: Sexual immorality, lustful thoughts, pornography,” “chasing after things instead of God, manipulating others, hatred of those who get in your way, senseless arguments, resentment when others are favored, temper tantrums, angry quarrels, only thinking of yourself, being in love with your own opinions,” “being envious of the blessings of others, murder, uncontrolled addictions, wild parties, and all other similar behavior. Haven’t I already warned you that those who use their “freedom” for these things will not inherit the Kingdom Realm of God!”


The “Spiritual Parasites” mentioned in the previous scriptures spoil our “Holy Hunger” for God and His Written Word. By continually consuming a “Diet of Compromise,” “spiritual septic shock” sets into our walk with God. This action is where the vital signs of our “Eternal Life in God” begin to shut down! What a severe condition my friend, let’s not take this lightly!

A Question of the Heart

Galatians 5:9 (TPT);


“Don’t you know that when you allow even a little lie into your heart, it can permeate your entire belief system?”


It is so important that we pause here and ask ourselves the following question of the heart:


What anti-Christ lie (spiritual parasite) may be depleting my heart of a “Holy Hunger” for God and His Written Word?


My friend, it is crucial that we honestly answer this question of the heart. It exposes what we believe to be accurate about the responsibility that we have in our relationship with God and His Holy Written Word (The Bible).

Hebrews 4:12-13 (TPT);


“For we have the Living Word of God, which is full of energy, like a two-mouthed sword. It will even penetrate to the very core of our being where soul and spirit, bone and marrow meet. It interprets and reveals the true thoughts and secret motives of our hearts.” “There is not one person who can hide their thoughts from God, for nothing we do remains a secret, and nothing created is concealed, but everything gets exposed and defenseless before His Eyes, to whom we must render an account.”

A Prayer of the Heart


My heart’s prayer for us as we openly and honestly come before The Lord is this:

“I say and decree that every spiritual parasite that has caused us to be anemic by blocking the digestion of God’s Word in our lives be Gone In Jesus Name! I now speak to our hearts and call forth a “Holy Hunger” to ignite, as we passionately pursue God through His Holy Written Word in Jesus Name!”

Signs of Life


My friend, digesting and speaking “The Living Word of God,” resuscitates our “Spirit Man!” “Signs of Life” appear with a “Holy Hunger” for God and His Written Word! It’s time to rejoice!

Psalm 34:8-10 (MEV);


“Oh, taste and see that The Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.” “Oh, fear The Lord, you, His saints; for the ones who fear Him will not be in need.” “The young lions are in want and suffer hunger, but the ones who seek The Lord will not lack any good thing.”


No longer “Superficial Seekers,” WE ARE BIBLE STRONG!
“It’s Time to Eat,” my friend!…. The Bread of Life!

John 6:51 (TPT);


The Bible says, “I Alone Am This Living Bread that has come to you from Heaven. Eat this Bread, and you will live forever. The living Bead I give you is My Body, which I will offer as a Sacrifice so that all may live.”

“Be Strong and Live Free……..Boldly For Him!”

© 2022 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo: Priscilla DuPreez
 

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Feast on Joy

1st Thessalonians 5:16 (TPT);

“Let joy be your continual feast.”

What does it mean to “Feast on Joy?”

“Feasting On Joy” is “Partaking of God’s Strength and Power.” “Divine Joy” is nutrient-dense “Spiritual Soul Food” for the weary Child of God!

DIVINE JOY

“Divine Joy,” consumed by a child of God as a “Continual Feast of Joy,” builds a Stronghold of God’s Protective Presence over our lives.

Nehemiah 8:10 (AMPC);

“Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is Holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the Joy of The Lord is your Strength and Stronghold.”

My friend, there is a profound spiritual revelation from The Holy Spirit Housed within this scripture. An insight that supernaturally dispels grief and depression. The revelation? “THE JOY OF THE LORD is our Strength and Stronghold!” Not a carnal human joy that our emotions must work up! Ezra, the Priest, knows that the children of Israel need more than natural sustenance to overcome the obstacles before them. They need the “JOY OF THE LORD” to be their “Strength and Stronghold!” THE DIVINE GIFT OF JOY THAT GOD GIVES HIS SON JESUS CHRIST AT CALVARY!

GOD’S GIFT OF JOY

“God’s Gift of Joy” will “birth faith within us!”

Hebrews 12:2 (TPT);

“We look away from the natural realm and we fasten our gaze onto Jesus Who Birthed faith within us and Who leads us forward into faith’s perfection. His example is this: Because His Heart was focused on THE JOY of knowing that you would be His, He endured the agony of The Cross and Conquered its humiliation and now sits exalted at the Right Hand of The Throne of God!”

“God’s Gift of Joy” is the Divine Strength and Power that takes Jesus Christ’s Faith through “the agony of The Cross of Calvary.” As “The Sacrificial Lamb of God” (Ref. John 1:29), Jesus Christ “Focuses On Divine Joy.” THE JOY OF HIS FATHER! The result? This “Feast of Joy” “conquers humiliation! Now “grief and depression” cannot steal the Victory of Calvary! My friend, this Supernatural “Grace Gift of Joy” from Father God is now ours through salvation! THANK YOU, JESUS! “God’s Gift of Joy” can bring us through the roughest of waters, as we like Jesus Christ, “Feast on Divine Joy!” This is the picture of “A Heart of Joy,” fully surrendered to The Will of God.

A HEART OF JOY

A “Feast of Divine Joy” produces “A Heart of Joy!” Igniting an appetite to do “The Will of God!”

John 4:34 (TPT);

“Then Jesus spoke up and said, “My Food is to be doing The Will of Him Who sent Me and bring it to completion.”

“A Heart of Joy” Focuses on The Pleasure of “Doing The Will of Him Who Sent Me, and “bringing it to completion.”

“Divine Obedience” is Jesus Christ’s “True Food.” Is it yours?

THE NUTRITION OF DIVINE OBEDIENCE

“The Nutrition of Divine Obedience,” from “Feasting on Joy,” fuels Jesus Christ through the most challenging moment of Calvary. This is where “The Joy of The Lord” becomes “His Strength and Stronghold!” (Ref. Nehemiah 8:10 (b)).

Matthew 27: 45-46 (AMPC);

“Now from the sixth hour (noon) there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour (three o’clock).” “And about the ninth hour (three o’clock) Jesus cried with a loud voice, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?—that is, My God, My God, why have you abandoned Me [leaving Me helpless, forsaking and failing Me in My need]!.”

My friend, there are many opportunities in life to feel abandoned, helpless, and forsaken; the enemy and our flesh will make sure of it. However, focusing on “Divine Joy” brings The Glory of God onto the scene and dispels grief and depression. I’m describing “Divine Resurrection Joy!” The Focused Joy of our Savior’s Heart as He Pays The Price For Our Salvation! A JOY, SO INTIMATE WITH THE FATHER IT COVERS THE DARKEST OF HOURS!

As we follow Jesus’ example and choose to “Feast On Divine Joy,” we are insulated from grief and depression. How? by focusing on “THE JOY OF THE LORD WHO IS OUR STRENGTH AND STRONGHOLD!” (Ref. Nehemiah 8:10 (b)). This truth makes “Obedience” to “be doing the Will of Him Who sent us” (Ref. John 4:34), a “Divine Joyful Priority” in our lives! Not a burden of performance.

THE BURDEN OF PERFORMANCE

One of the quickest ways to lose our “Divine Joy” is to come under “the burden of performance.”

Galatians 3:3 (TPT);

“Your new life in the Anointed One began with The Holy Spirit giving you a new birth. Why then would you so foolishly turn from living in The Spirit by trying to finish by your own works?”

Even Jesus Christ does not complete His Assignment at Calvary in His Strength, under “The Burden of His Performance.” He Chooses To “Focus On Joy,” “The joy that you would be His” (Ref. Hebrews 12:2 (b)). What makes us think that we are capable of accomplishing God’s Will for our lives” by our works” without “The JOY OF THE LORD BEING OUR STRENGTH AND STRONGHOLD?” (Ref. Nehemiah 8:10 (b).

Are you “Feasting on Joy,” or are you under “The Burden of Performance?”

Asking ourselves this question on an ongoing basis is crucial, my friend because it determines where we have set our gaze and joined our life.

RADIANT JOY

“Radiant Joy” is ours as we stay in union with The Living God.

Psalm 34:5 (TPT);

“Gaze upon Him, join your life with His, and JOY WILL COME. Your face will glisten with Glory. You’ll never wear that shame face again.”

Continually gazing upon Jesus Christ produces a life of “Radiant Joy!” A heart consumed with “The Glory of God!” ” We will “never wear that shame face again!” (Ref. Psalm 34:5 (b). Because “Joy is our continual feast!” (Ref. 1st Thessalonians 5:16).

My friend, may the “Fullness of Joy” reflect in our countenance as we choose to:

“BE STRONG AND LIVE “JOYFULLY” FREE……..BOLDLY FOR HIM!”

Psalm 16:11 (AMPC),

“You will show me the path of life; in Your Presence is FULLNESS of JOY, at Your Right Hand there are pleasures forevermore!”

© 2022 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo: Brooke Lark

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Kissed With Forgiveness

No matter how many times that we have been kissed, to be “Kissed with Forgiveness” is the Greatest Kiss that we will ever receive….or give!

Psalm 103:3 (TPT);

“You kissed my heart with forgiveness, in spite of all I’ve done. You’ve healed me inside and out from every disease.”

What kind of Love offers a “kiss of forgiveness?” What type of Love brings “healing inside and out from every disease?” It is The GOD kind of LOVE that the Psalmist King David intimately adores with his whole heart.

Psalm 103:1-2 (TPT);

“With my whole heart, with my whole life, and with my innermost being, I bow in wonder and love before You, The Holy God!” “Yahweh, You are my soul’s celebration. How could I ever forget the miracles of kindness you’ve done for me?”

David’s “Soul’s Celebration” is The One True God that longs to “Kiss His Creation with Forgiveness!” Gifting us with Eternal Life through God’s Son Jesus Christ! He Is The Savior Who restores us to intimate fellowship with The Father! We read about it in the following prophetic overture of David’s heart:

Psalm 103:4 (TPT);

“You’ve rescued me from hell and saved my life. You’ve crowned me with Love and mercy.”

The “Kiss of Forgiveness” rescues us from hell and “crowns us with love and mercy.” Why is this so important? So that we too can give “The Kiss of Forgiveness” with the same “love and mercy” that our Heavenly Father has extended to us!

HAVE YOU BEEN “KISSED WITH FORGIVENESS?”

John 3:16-17 (TPT);

“For this is how much God loved the world-He gave His One and Only, Unique Son as a Gift. So now everyone who believes in Him will never perish but experience everlasting life.” “God did not send His Son into the world to judge and condemn the world, but to be its Savior and rescue it!”

To be “Kissed with Forgiveness” is a Gift of God’s Divine Love that Brings Eternal Life and Healing to us, spirit, soul, and body! This “Free Gift of God’s Grace” (ref. Romans 3:24) prepares us to be bearers of “The Kiss of Peace” as we walk in God’s Redemptive Love.

THE KISS OF PEACE

“The Kiss of Peace” is a “Holy Kiss of Love” exchanged from one believer in Jesus Christ to another.

1st Peter 5:14 (TPT);

“Greet one another with a ‘Kiss of Peace’.”

2nd Corinthians !3:12 (MEV);

“Greet one another with a, Holy Kiss.”

When we exchange “The Kiss of Peace” with our brothers and sisters in Christ, that “Holy Kiss” extends The Love of God to them. Assuring them that their relationship with us is safe and secure, free from malice and strife. My friend, through our Salvation, we are “forgiven much,” therefore we have the power through Jesus Christ “to love much.” (Ref. Luke 7:47.) Enabling us to “Kiss with Forgiveness” those that betray us with “The Judas Kiss.”

THE JUDAS KISS

When the force of betrayal hits, it leaves behind the piercing sting of “The Judas Kiss.”

Matthew 26:48-49 (AMPC);

“Now the betrayer had given them a sign saying, The One I shall kiss is the Man; seize Him.” “And he came up to Jesus at once and said, Hail (greetings, good health to you, long life to you) Master! And he embraced Him and Kissed Him with pretended warmth and devotion.”

Judas betrayed Jesus Christ with a kiss and a lie. What has been the weapon of choice? A smile? A hug? A wave across the room? A gift, “just because”…..just because we want control over someone or something, not ours? My friend, if we choose to live contrary to God’s “Law of Love” (Ref. Galatians 5:14), we open ourselves up to be used as vessels of “The Judas Kiss.”

DO YOU HAVE RELATIONSHIPS THAT BEAR THE BIRTHMARK OF BETRAYAL?

Some friendships designed in the Portals of Heaven are severed, leaving behind “The Birthmark of Betrayal!”

Galatians 5:15 (NKJV);

“But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!”

We cannot simultaneously “bite and devour one another” and give “the kiss of forgiveness.” When we choose strife over forgiveness, we violate “God’s Law of Love.” Dangerously turning our hearts away from God, we distance ourselves from our brothers and sisters in Christ. By injecting the venom of “The Judas Kiss” into the vein of our relationships. Slander is “the poison of sedition,” blocking the Love of God from flowing freely through our lives. This is a serious affront to The Kingdom of Heaven because “God is Love.”

James 4:11 (TPT);

“Dear friends, as part of God’s family, never speak against another family member, for when you slander a brother or sister you violate God’s Law of Love. And your duty is not to make yourself a judge of the Law of Love by saying it doesn’t apply to you, but your duty is to obey it!”

Remember that we are not called to shun “The Love of God” by “judging The Law of Love.” Instead, as The Body of Christ, we are called to “Live in The Love of God.”

“LIVING IN LOVE”

1st John 4:16 (TPT);

“God is Love! Those who are living in Love are living in God, and God lives through them.”

Recognizing that we are a “part of God’s family” will keep us “living in love.” Obeying “The Law of Love” with every Faithful Word that we speak and every “Holy Kiss” that we give, as God Expresses Himself through us.

HOW DO WE OBEY “THE LAW OF LOVE?”…….WITH THE KISS OF HUMILITY!

Nothing moves the Heart of Father God more than the “The Kiss of Humility.” Because it is from the position of a heart, free from pride and arrogance that “The Kiss of Forgiveness” can be freely given and freely received!

Luke 7:37-38 (TPT);

“In the neighborhood there was an immoral woman of the streets, known to all to be a prostitute. When she heard about Jesus being in Simon’s house, she took an exquisite flask made from alabaster, filled it with the most expensive perfume, went right into the home of the Jewish religious leader, and knelt at the feet of Jesus in front of all the guests.” “Broken and weeping, she covered His Feet with the tears that fell from her face. She kept crying and drying His Feet with her long hair. Over and over she kissed Jesus’ Feet. Then she opened her flask and anointed His Feet with her costly perfume as an act of worship.”

“The Kiss of Humility” is an “act of worship.” It is costly and knows no shame. Being free from pride and arrogance, “The Kiss of Humility” is willing to risk it all for LOVE! The Heavenly Love, that only God, through His Son, Jesus Christ, can give us.

Who in your neighborhood, family, church, office, etc., needs “The Kiss of Forgiveness?”

Are you willing to open the door with “The Kiss of Humility?”

My friend, the prostitute in Simon’s house, teaches us a valuable lesson. She took her most cherished earthly possession and exchanged it for “The Pearl of Great Price.” (Ref. Matthew 13:45-46). The Kingdom of Heaven that can only be found at the feet of Jesus Christ! Unashamed and unafraid of her appearance before men, this despised woman of the streets bravely enters Simon’s home. With a repentant heart, she “bows at The Savior’s feet and gives, “The Kiss of Humility!” Not just once but over and over again! Her sacrificial offering of tears, kisses, and costly perfume are an “extravagant act of worship,” that troubles Simon’s, hard heart.

Luke 7:39 (TPT);

“When Simon saw what was happening, he thought, This man can’t be a true prophet. If He were really a prophet, He would know what kind of sinful woman is touching Him.”

It is incredibly uncomfortable to watch someone else’s heart be “Kissed with Forgiveness” while ours remains unchanged. Yet this is what Simon and his dinner guests do. They choose to despise the “Ways of Peace” (Ref. Luke 7:50), as they judge, “The Law of Love.”

“WAYS OF PEACE”

Luke 7:48-50 (TPT);

“Then Jesus said to the woman at His feet, “all your sins are forgiven.” “All the dinner guests said among themselves, “Who is The One Who can even forgive sins?” “Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith in Me has given you life. Now you may leave and walk in the ways of peace.”

Faith in “The Kiss of Forgiveness” gives us life and releases us to “walk in the ways of peace!”

Where is our faith? Are we sitting at Simon’s dinner table, Looking Down our nose in disdain at the open act of worship from a repentant heart? Or are we at the feet of Jesus Looking Up into, “The Face of The One Who Has Just Kissed Us With Forgiveness?”

It’s time to humble ourselves and walk in “The Ways of Peace,” my friend! “Healed inside and out from every disease!” (Ref. Psalm 103:3).

Be Strong and Live “Venom” Free…….” Kissed with Forgiveness” Boldly For Him!

© 2022 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo: Alex Shute

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“Enduring Faith”

The jail cell is cold, yet his heart is on fire! Not even the death sentence of a heathen Emperor can quench the passion and joy that bubbles up within him. With swift strokes of determination, the Apostle Paul begins to pen an urgent message of “Enduring Faith,” to his spiritual son Timothy.

2nd Timothy 1:2-5 (TPT);

“My beloved son, I pray for a greater release of God’s Grace, Love, and Total Well-Being to flow into your life from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ!” “You know that I’ve been called to serve the God of my fathers with a clean conscience. Night and day, I pray, constantly for you, building a memorial for you with my prayers.” “ I know that you have wept for me, your spiritual father, and your tears are dear to me. I can’t wait to see you again! I’m filled with joy” as I think of your strong faith that was passed down through your family line. It began with your grandmother Lois, who passed it on to your dear mother, Eunice. And it’s clear that you too are following in the footsteps of their Godly example.”

The “Enduring Faith” of Timothy’s grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice created a “Heritage of Faith.” One that fills the Apostle Paul “with joy!” Because of this joy-filled faith and the urgency of the hour, the Apostle Paul continually contends in prayer for his spiritual son Timothy.

What is “Enduring Faith?”

MERRIAM WEBSTER DICTIONARY:

ENDURE = To remain firm under suffering without yielding.

FAITH = belief and trust in and loyalty to God.
Firm belief in something for which there is no proof.
Complete trust.

This is how I define “Enduring Faith:”

ENDURING FAITH = To remain firm in our belief and trust in God when there is no proof that a need or difficult situation has changed or will change.

The Word of God provides for us a clear picture of “Enduring Faith” in Hebrews 11:1 (AMPC);

“Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].”

As the Apostle Paul fervently prayed for Timothy, he “built a memorial for him.” A spiritual monument of intercession that covered Timothy to preserve. “The Enduring Faith” that was passed on to him. A faith that the Apostle Paul discerns has come under attack in Timothy’s life and ministry.

2nd Timothy 1:6-7 (AMPC);

“That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination].” “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and love and calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.”

Never forget this important spiritual truth, my friend:

FEAR FIGHTS AGAINST THE FIRE OF GOD IN OUR LIVES!

If we allow the spirit of fear to dominate us, the desire and the “Fire” to passionately live our life calling will be quenched. The Apostle Paul knew that Timothy was dangerously close to losing “his fire” in carrying on The Gospel of Jesus Christ. He knew that discouragement and “fear of men” had set in because of Paul’s imprisonment and death sentence. The “Enduring Faith” that was passed down, to Timothy was being shaken to the core. Like Timothy, we too must guard “the inner fire,” “the gracious gift of God” that resides within us. There is a race that God has called each of us to run, and it will take “Enduring Faith” to run and finish it well.

Hebrews 10:35-39 (TPT);

“So don’t lose your bold, courageous faith, for you are destined, for a great reward!” “You need the strength of endurance to reveal the poetry of God’s will, and then, you receive the promise in full.” “For soon and very soon, “The One Who is appearing will come without delay!” “And He also says, “My righteous ones will live from My Faith. But if fear holds them back, My Soul is not content with them!” “But we are certainly not those who are held back, by fear and perish; we are among those who have faith and experience true life.

When “Enduring Faith” is alive in our lives, we will “experience true life!” With “Eyes of Faith,” we can recognize and utilize the power of God that resides within us through salvation. This Holy Power, given to us by The Grace of God, equips us to walk in love with a calm and well-balanced mind. These attributes of “Enduring Faith” working together develop our discipline and self-control in God. As our self-control grows in God, the fruit of our life matures into a “bold, courageous faith that receives a great reward!” Glory To God! This is why it was so important for the Apostle Paul to encourage Timothy in his faith. I am grateful that his writing still encourages us in our faith today!

2nd Timothy 3:14 (TPT);

“Yet you must continue to advance in strength with the truth wrapped around your heart, being assured by God that He’s The One Who has truly taught you all these things.”

The “Enduring Faith” of Timothy became The “Endearing Faith” of God, which filled The Apostle Paul with joy. This my friend, is the same “Enduring Faith” that “Endears” us to The Heart of Father God as we rest In Him.

Hebrews 4:10-11 (TPT);

As we enter into God’s faith-rest life, we cease from our works, just as God Celebrates His Finished Works and Rests in them.” “So then we must give our all and be eager to experience this faith-rest life so that no one falls short by following the same pattern of doubt and unbelief.”

“The Great Hall of Faith”, listed in Hebrews chapter 11, is an eternally documented memorial of “Enduring Faith”. This chapter is filled, with mighty men and women of God who learned by experience how to “enter into God’s faith-rest life.” These ancestors of our faith, which includes Paul and Timothy, did not allow doubt and unbelief to “quench the fire of God within them.” Their love and passion for God enabled them to endure persecutions, trials, and tribulations without wavering. Their stalwart faith endeared them to the Heart of God!

Hebrews 11:39-40 (TPT);

“These were the true heroes, commended for their faith, yet they lived in hope without receiving the fullness of what was promised them.” “But now God has invited us to live in something better than what they had—faith’s fullness! This is so that they could be brought to finished perfection alongside us.”

By the end of his life, the Apostle Paul shares with Timothy a beautiful snapshot of “Enduring Faith.” One that is meant to encourage us today.

2nd Timothy 4:6-8 (TPT);

“And now the time is fast approaching for my release from this life. And I am ready to be offered as a sacrifice.” “I have fought an excellent fight. I have finished my full course. I’ve kept my heart full of faith.” “There’s a crown of righteousness waiting in Heaven for me, and I know that my Lord will reward me on his day of righteous judgment. And this crown is not only waiting for me, but for all who love and long for His Unveiling.”

We must “love and long for His Unveiling,” my friend!

Why? So that we can:

Be Strong and Live Free with Enduring Faith…………. Boldly For Him!

Hebrews 11:6 (TPT);

“And without faith living within us, it would be impossible to please God. For we come to God in faith knowing this He is real and that He rewards the faith of those who passionately seek Him.”

© 2021 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo: Esther Wechsler

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“Table For Two”

I don’t have to close my eyes to re-live one of my most cherished memories. Captured in my thoughts and stored in my heart, it is a beautiful scene that I often revisit.

It’s a chilly winter night, and the intimate “table for two” is set against a quaint brick wall in the small dining room of a cozy restaurant in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. The ambiance creates an atmosphere of expectancy, igniting questions of hopeful love to swirl through my thoughts and dance through my heart! Is this “The One?” I wonder, My Knight in Shining Armor? The man that God has called to be my husband?

Song Of Solomon 2:4 (AMPC);

“He brought me to the banqueting house, and His banner over me was love [for love waved as a protecting and comforting banner over my head when I was near Him].”

Through the flickering candlelight, I can see in Mark’s eyes the “Protecting Presence of God’s Banner of Love” waving over my heart. His beautiful blue eyes reflect an inviting Peace that is both comforting and intimidating to me at the same time. As a fairly new Believer, I wonder, How could this handsome and Godly man be interested in me? At moments I feel like I am in the midst of the most beautiful dream that I never want to end!

For once in my life, the “Cinderella Shoe” fits and I’m wearing it!

It has been several years since the concert in Dover, Delaware. My best friend growing up begs me to go with her; at first, I’m not interested since I’m not a big fan of “rock music” and had never heard the term “Christian Rock” before. Besides, I have not been feeling well, and it’s going to take us a few hours to get to our destination from where we live.

Several phone calls later and a promise that we will stop to get something to eat finds me on the road to Dover! As we journey along, my friend, who has previously dated the bands’ drummer, realizes that we are running late and decides to forego the food. After all, there is no time to waste!

Getting to the Church where the concert is taking place catches me by surprise, where is everybody?

As people begin to filter in, the lights dim, and the atmosphere begins to shift, dry ice adds to the mystique of the moment. Suddenly, the spotlight highlights a guy blindfolded in a plexiglass phone booth-shaped box, wearing a red shirt. From an opening in the top of the box, there is a key hanging from a string dangling in front of him.

As the music starts, the guy in the box grabs the key takes the blindfold off, swings the door wide open, steps out, and confronts another guy dressed as a demon. As they go through the motions of a staged fight between good and evil, I am intrigued by what I am witnessing.

This “staged” fight seems a lot like the life that I am currently living. I am a reasonably new Believer in Jesus Christ, yet the ties to my past are strong, and I am having a difficult time “Breaking Free” from a very toxic relationship in my life. I find out later that this is one reason my friend has asked me to accompany her to the concert.

By now, the guy in the box has won his fight against the force of evil, and the band comes out in full force. The guy in red is singing a song that he wrote entitled, “I Surrender.” With tears stinging my eyes and rolling down my cheeks, God uses every lyric he sings to fully open the eyes of my heart and break me free from the “soul ties” of my past.

For the first time in my life, I am not afraid to Dine with Father God at His “Table for Two.”

Revelation 3:20 (TPT);

“Behold, I’m standing at the door, knocking. If your heart is open to hear my voice and you open the door within, I will come into you and feast with you, and you will feast with me.”

Feasting with God at His “Table for Two,” created a “Holy Hunger” within me, a True Divine Appetite. Yes, “I Surrendered” to God’s Perfect Will for my life that night, and I am so glad I did!

Many years later, I can testify that the beauty of my relationship with Mark, (the guy who was in the box that night) is that WE BOTH LOVE GOD MORE THAN WE LOVE EACH OTHER! We have learned to continually dine at Father God’s, “Table for Two,” developing our intimacy with Him individually through His Word before communing as husband and wife.

Why?……because anything less would be idolatry!

Deuteronomy 5:7 (AMPC);

“You shall have no other gods before Me or besides Me.”

Idolatry is the antithesis of intimacy with God.

Idolatry is the devil’s playground.

Idolatry is the force behind “crimes of passion!”

Idolatry is the trap that the enemy will use to destroy your intimacy with God and kill the relationships in your life, spirit, soul, and body!

Merriam Webster Dictionary:

IDOLATRY = The worship of a physical object as a God.

ANTITHESIS = The Direct Opposite.

My friend, when you and I choose to love someone, something, or even our desires more than God, that person or thing becomes an “object of our worship.” our god! By desecrating our hearts in this manner, we sit and dine at the tables of “foreign gods,” feasting on the carnality of our fleshly desires. This heart action works in “The Direct Opposite” to developing True Intimacy with God, at His Holy, “Table for Two.”

The danger in all of this, “idol worship,” is that our true soul satisfaction can never come from any source outside of the “One True Source,” Jesus Christ!

John 4:13-14 (TPT);

“Jesus answered, If you drink from Jacob’s well, you’ll be thirsty again and again,” “but if anyone drinks the Living Water I give them, they will never thirst again and will be forever satisfied! For when you drink the water I give you, it becomes a gushing fountain of The Holy Spirit, springing up and flooding you with endless life!”

To drink from the well of human efforts will bring disappointment, and leave us spiritually dry, brittle, and thirsty “again and again. “However, drinking the “Living Water” of Jesus Christ will fill our souls to the Brim with Him! We become a “Gusher” of Holy Spirit Power as He “Springs up and Floods us with Endless Life!”

Whose dining table are you sitting at, my friend?

Have you chosen to dine at the table of foreign gods?

Have you answered God’s RSVP for Eternity?

I am so grateful that God, “Who Is,” “Love Himself,” offers His Love to us in all of the “Right Places.” My journey with Mark began at The Most Important “Table For Two” FIRST. The Table of Intimacy With God, Dining on His Word and Feasting on His Presence!

When I reflect, my heart’s deepest desire was to meet and marry a man who LOVED GOD MORE THAN HE LOVED ME! In Mark, I have found that “Dream Come True!”

Luke 12:37 (TPT):

“What great joy is ahead for The Awakened Ones who are for The Master’s return. He Himself will become their servant and wait on them at His Table as He passes by.”

Be Strong and Live Free…………..Boldly For Him!

© 2021 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo: Raissa Lara Lutolf ( -Fasel )

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Unshakable Hope

Did you know that as Born Again Believers in Christ Jesus, that you and I have a “Hope Chest?” I’m not talking about a cedar chest filled with “earthen treasures.” I am referring to a “Heavenly Hope Chest,” an “Unshakable Hope,” that God wants everyone to know.

Merriam Webster Dictionary:

UNSHAKABLE = Not possible to weaken or get rid of, Not able to be shaken.

HOPE = To cherish a desire with anticipation to want something to be true.

Colossians 1:23 (b) (TPT);

“Never be shaken from the Hope of The Gospel you have believed in. And this is the glorious News I preach all over the world.”

How does our hope in The Gospel of Jesus Christ remain unshaken?

We continue to advance in Faith.

How do we advance in Faith when everything around us is being shaken?

By tapping into our “Heavenly Hope Chest.”

Where is our “Heavenly Hope Chest” found?

Colossians 1:26-27 (TPT) lets us in on this “secret surprise”;

There is a divine mystery, a secret surprise, that has been concealed from the world for generations, but now it’s being revealed, unfolded, and manifested for every Holy Believer to experience.” “Living within you is The Christ Who Floods you with the expectation of Glory! This mystery of Christ, embedded within us, becomes a Heavenly Treasure Chest of Hope filled with The Riches of Glory for His people, and God wants everyone to know it!”

Jesus Christ, The Son of The Living God, is “embedded within us!”

Merriam Webster Dictionary:

EMBEDDED = Attached to a military unit or group for some purpose (such as covering a conflict or providing expert advice.)

Oxford Languages Dictionary:

EMBEDDED = (Of an object) fixed firmly and deeply in a surrounding mass, implanted.

In this case, my friend the PersonHood of Jesus Christ is “The One” fixed firmly and deeply within the surrounding mass of our spirit man’s heart when we invite Him to be our Lord and Savior.

This is powerful, Jesus Christ, through salvation has been “IMPLANTED” within us!

Not only that, He is our “Ever Present Help in a time of trouble.” Ref. Psalm 46:1. He covers us in every conflict that may come our way, always providing us with “Expert Advice” just when we need it! As we choose to stay connected to Jesus Christ, Who is our “Heavenly Treasure Chest of Hope,” drawing our strength from Him, we will remain faith-filled and rock-solid in The Kingdom of Heaven. This stance of faith enables us to become reliable, joyful dispensers of “His Divine Unshakable Hope,” wherever we go! Glory To God!

While praying and asking God to make this word, “A revelation from His Heart and not merely a human explanation,” He shared something very profound with me about Divine Hope…..

WE ARE GOD’S HOPE CHEST!

When The Lord shared His Word with me, I was surprised and began to ponder it throughout the day. Early in the morning, when I woke up, I continued to think about what He had shared with me and then I asked The Lord:

“God, how are we YOUR Hope Chest?”

Immediately came The Reply of The Lord:

“I have placed Eternity within the hearts of men, IN HOPES that man would live for ME!”

Wow! God Has Hopes! I had never heard that before. I got excited with expectation! The Lord then gave me the following scripture:

Ecclesiastes 3:11(AMPC);

“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men’s hearts and minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.”

Can you see this friend? The whole worth of Heaven has been, Divinely Deposited within us because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ at Calvary! We are “God’s Hope Chest,” a “Heavenly Treasure Chest” filled with “The Riches of His Glory!” This is our “Unshakable Hope” in The Gospel of Jesus Christ that lives within us! As men and women created in The Image of God, The Lord has implanted a yearning for Eternity, a “sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy!”

Jeremiah 29:11 (AMPC);

“For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts, and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you HOPE in your final outcome.”

Do you know what God Has placed in His Hope Chest for your life?

My beloved friend, God Has Eternal High Hopes For Us! He has filled His “Hope Chest” that is you and me with His “thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give us HOPE in our final outcome!”

Why is this so important to The Heart of Father God that you and I grasp this revelation?

Proverbs 13:12 (AMP) holds the key to our answer;

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire is fulfilled, it is a TREE OF LIFE.”

God knows that our flesh, the enemy, and sometimes the decisions of others can detour the timing of our hopes and dreams from being realized. The result? A spiritually sick heart, which is a confused heart. When the spiritual Heart becomes confused we can potentially “skip a beat,” regarding life-altering decisions. This can cause us to misjudge the people around us and misstep the path that is before us. However, when we stay “In Sync with God,” the desires, hopes, and dreams that He has for our lives will be fulfilled. Why?….. because the root system for our “Unshakable Hope” stems from “The Tree of Life Himself,” Jesus Christ! This is how everyone will know that we are “God’s Hope Chest” and give Him ALL The Glory For Eternity!

Ephesians 6:10 (AMPC);

“In conclusion, be strong in The Lord [be empowered through your union with Him]; draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides].”

“Be Strong and Live Free with an Unshakable Hope now and into Eternity…..Boldly For Him!”

© 2021 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo By: Lena De Fanti

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“The End Result”

Time is running short and He has a lot to Say. Answering His Disciples questions brings tears of compassion and frustration to His Eyes. The Unwavering Love that He has for each one of them is intense and unconditional! He knows that the road that lies ahead of them is not an easy one, just as it has not been an easy one for Him, indeed it was about to get even more difficult, yet He is in Full Agreement with His Father’s Plan for man. The lessons that His Disciples have learned from Him over the last three years will be tested in ways that they have yet to comprehend. Now with the Intensity of Eternity resounding through His Voice, Jesus Christ Speaks to them with, “The End Result” of humanity on His Mind and in His Heart.

John 14:12-14 (TPT);

“I tell you this timeless truth: The person who follows Me in faith, believing in me, will do the same Mighty Miracles that I do—even Greater Miracles than these because I go to be with My Father!” “For I will do whatever you ask Me to do when you ask Me in My Name. And that is how The Son will show what The Father Is Like and bring Glory to Him.” “Ask Me in My Name, and I Will Do it for you!”

Can you imagine how stunned the Disciples were when they heard Jesus Christ, their Beloved Friend, and Mentor, Share this, “Timeless Truth” with them? In reality, this, “Timeless Truth” is still a stunning revelation to us, one that we as Believers in Jesus Christ must cherish and keep before us in our everyday walk with The Lord.

What is this, “Timeless Truth?”

it is The Reality that through our “Faith, as Believers in Jesus Christ that we CAN through HIS Name and in HIS Strength do, The Same Mighty Miracles—even Greater Miracles” than Jesus did when He walked the Earth!

This my friend is how you and I can choose to live out our lives with, “The End Result” of humanity on our mind and in our hearts.

You see, Jesus Still Walks the Earth today……..IN US!

John 14:18-20 (TPT);

“I promise that I will never leave you helpless or abandon you as orphans—I will come back to you!” “Soon I will leave this world and they will see Me no longer, but you will see Me, because I will Live Again, and you will come alive too.” “So when that day comes, you will know that I AM Living in The Father and that you are One With Me, For I Will Be Living IN YOU.”

What is Jesus talking about here?

He is talking about His Death, Burial, and Resurrection….a Resurrection of Salvation through The Cross of Calvary! Yes, Jesus Christ Paid The Ultimate Price for our Salvation with, “The End Result” of humanity on His Mind and in His Heart

Why did He do this?

So that we too can live with that same unbroken focus towards a lost and dying world that is so desperately looking for answers! Answers that can only be found through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

What is, “The End Result” of Calvary?

Jesus Christ coming to live WITHIN US in All of His Fullness at the point of our Salvation!

You see my friend there is a Great Deposit of Heavenly Power that has been seeded within us at the point of our salvation! This is the Revelation that Jesus wanted His Disciples to understand and embrace so that they would in turn live and now us would live with, “The End Result” of Calvary on our mind because Jesus Christ now lives in our heart.

The Apostle Paul’s poignant expression of Heavenly Intercession for us in Ephesians 1:17-23 (TPT) gives us insight into the depths of “The Seed of Salvation” that lies within us as Believers in Christ Jesus;

“I pray that The Father of Glory, The God of our Lord Jesus Christ, would impart to you the riches of the Spirit of Wisdom and the Spirit of Revelation to know Him through your deepening intimacy with Him.” “I pray that the Light of God will illuminate the eyes of your imagination, flooding you with light, until you experience the full revelation of the Hope of His Calling—that is, the wealth of God’s Glorious Inheritances that He finds in us, His holy ones!” “I pray that you will continually experience the immeasurable greatness of God’s Power made available to you through faith. Then your lives will be an advertisement for this Immense Power as it works through you! This is the Mighty Power” “that was released when God raised Christ from the dead and exalted Him to The Place of Highest Honor and Supreme Authority in the Heavenly Realm!” “And now He is Exalted as First Above every ruler, authority, government, and realm of power in existence! He is Gloriously Enthroned over every name that is ever praised, not only in this age but in the age that is coming!” “And He Alone is The Leader and Source of Everything needed in the Church. God has put everything beneath the Authority of Jesus Christ and has given Him the Highest Rank above all others.” “And now we, His Church, are His Body on the Earth and that which Fills Him Who is being filled by it!”

What an anointed prayer from a Mighty Man of God! The Apostle Paul’s prayer invites us into an intimacy with God that brings a Heavenly Wisdom and Revelation to our Earthly lives! This allows us to “See” as God“ illuminates the eyes of our imagination with His Light! We can then experience “the full revelation of the Hope of His Calling” in our walk with Him!

As you and I continue to develop our faith in the “Immeasurable Greatness of God’s Power made available to us,” “our lives will be an advertisement of this Immense Power as it works through us!” Glory to God my friend! This is how we can boldly and confidently go about doing “the even greater miracles” that Jesus talked about in John 14:12!

Why is it so important to The Heart of God that we do these, “Even Greater Miracles?”

The Revelation for This Answer is found in Ephesians 1:23 (TPT);

“And now we, His Church, are His Body on the Earth and that which Fills Him Who is being filled by it!”

You “See” my friend the, “Best is NOT YET to come”…..”The Best HAS COME”….His Name is Jesus Christ, and we are “HIS Body on the Earth!” Fulfilling HIs Will FOR the Earth, as we are now His Church on the Earth!

For years when I would write someone a note of encouragement, I would usually include the phrase, “Your Best is Yet To Come!” Or when I would minister to someone individually or corporately, I would again encourage them with the phrase, “Your Best is Yet To Come!” However, all of that changed recently as I was preparing to write this blog. The Lord started revealing to me that when I made this statement that it put a “Spiritual Weight of Fleshly Wonderment” on the hearer, inviting them into a place of Wondering Who, What, Where, When and Why Is their breakthrough; pointing their heart and hope to an elusive place of uncertainty, rather than The Certainty of The Personhood of Jesus Christ. The added danger in utilizing this statement is that it can take away the importance of our responsibility in tapping into The “Transforming Power of God” that ALREADY resides within us at the point of our Salvation.

My friend I am not minimizing the times that we have used, said, wrote, or heard this phrase, I am being obedient to share with you what The Lord has revealed to me. I am SO Grateful for His Continued Coaching in my life!

Let us never forget that Jesus Christ IS “The End Result” for ALL Humanity, He has given you and I Access to the Most Precious Gift of All, “Himself through Salvation!”

Colossians 1:27 (TPT);

“Living within you is The Christ Who floods you with the expectation of Glory! This mystery of Christ, embedded within us, becomes a Heavenly Treasure Chest of Hope Filled with The Riches of Glory for His People, and God wants everyone to know it!”

Why does God want everyone to know it?

1st John 5:4-5 (TPT);

“You see (friend) every child of God overcomes the world, for our faith is the Victorious Power that Triumphs over the world.” “So who are the world conquerors defeating its power? Those (You Friend) who believes the Jesus Is The Son Of God.”

Happy New Year 2021!

Make it a year where you choose to…….

“Be Strong and Live Free……..Boldly For Him!”

© 2020 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”

Photo By : Marek Mucha