Tag: #faith

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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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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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“Insulated”

For years I have held back the following personal testimony, mostly in silent contemplation, sharing it only with a handful of people. It wasn’t until December 2020 that I sensed a release from The Lord to share it publicly. My prayer is that we all continue to embrace the Invaluable Power and Presence of God’s Eternal Word Spoken through “Our Mouth” no matter what situation we face.

Matthew 24:35 (TPT);

“The earth and sky will wear out and fade away before One Word I Speak loses its power or fails to accomplish its purpose.”

It was one of those late-night flights from Dallas, Texas, to Honolulu, Hawaii. Mark had just finished his final session in the recording studio for his “Still Waters Run Deep” project, and we were excited to get back home. The lights recently dimmed by the Flight Attendants, everyone began to settle down for the long ride ahead. The peaceful hum of the Jet engines created a soothing lullaby causing weary passengers to doze off. SUDDENLY like a BULLHORN FROM HEAVEN, THE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT URGENTLY and LOUDLY DECLARED in my Spirit

“THERE IS A TERRORIST ON THIS PLANE”!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FULLY ALERT and ALARMED, I remember thinking what!!!!!!!, a Terrorist! As I clutched the arm of my seat, a horrific fear that I had never experienced in my entire life, before or since began to overtake me. I quickly turned to Mark, who was quietly resting. I wanted to tell him what I had just heard from The Lord, BEFORE I COULD EVEN OPEN MY MOUTH TO SPEAK, THE VOICE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT INTERJECTED, DIRECTING ME “TO NOT” SPEAK OUT LOUD WHAT HE JUST SHARED WITH ME AND TO “IMMEDIATELY” START PRAYING PSALM 91.

In quick obedience to The Instruction of The Lord, I began to quote Psalm 91verse by verse. Visibly shaken and still unsure of what was going on, I began to wonder if this was the specific reason that He had me memorize this passage of scripture several years earlier.

The more I quoted Psalm 91, the calmer my spirit became, though I remained on guard and cautious, looking over my shoulder from time to time. Getting up from my seat to go to the restroom, I could not resist scanning the plane with my eyes to confirm a sense of “normal.” As The Peace of God “INSULATED” me, I made my way back to my seat and buckled in for the remainder of the flight home, I never did say anything to Mark that night.

The mornings in Hawaii are a beautiful gift from God, and this one was no different. As I arrived at work, I suddenly wondered, “where is everyone?” Finally, the Office Manager greeted me and promptly told me that I could go home. As I questioned her why, she looked at me strangely and said, You don’t know? I replied, no. She then proceeded to tell me that several planes had flown into The World Trade Center in New York City and The Pentagon in DC. Potentially the White House and that America was under attack!

Somehow with the time zone difference and me rushing to get to work on time, I had missed the devastating news. Like the rest of the Nation, I am stunned, horrified, and in complete shock! September 11th, 2001 is a nightmare of epic proportions and one of the saddest events of American History. So, I leave the office in a state of numbness, my thoughts race back to the plane ride home that Mark and I had taken just weeks earlier, and what occurred during that flight, there is a pit in my stomach.

Throughout the ensuing years, there has been a myriad of questions that have bombarded my mind from time to time, but the Lord has Graciously answered some, others only Heaven will reveal. What I have come to realize, though, is with every fiber of my being, there was a Magnitude of God’s Divine Protection, Through His Spoken Word, which Insulated me…….and others at a very intense moment.

Proverbs 30:5 (ESV):

“Every word of God proves true; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.”

At the moment that God released His Instruction to me and I obeyed, reciting Psalm 91 verse by verse, His Power and Presence released as “A Wrap-Around Shield of Protection.” To God Be The Glory! This is how God “Insulates” us with “His Word” as WE SPEAK HIM from our HEART through our MOUTH, as He Directs us.

What does it mean to Insulate Us?

Here is the Cambridge Dictionary definition of the word insulate.

Insulate = To Cover and Surround something with a material or substance, to stop heat, sound, or electricity from escaping or entering.

God’s Word Spoken through our mouth is Creative Power and Substance. “The Insulation” of His Divine Protection, Provision, Wisdom, and Favor for whatever may be needed, in our life, according to His Will. My friend, this is how His “Wrap-Around Shield of Protection” becomes our confidence. It activates and “Insulates” us for everyday life.

Hebrews 11:1-3 (NKJV) says;

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” “For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.” “By faith, we understand the worlds were framed by The Word of God so that the things which are seen, were not made of things which are visible.”

You see friends, our trust and total reliance on The Word of God Spoken through our mouth no matter what we can see, taste, touch, hear, smell, or even “feel like” is what will ultimately provide you and me with “a good testimony” like, “the elders” of faith that have gone before us! I can personally attest to that plane ride decades ago that I felt anything but courageous or overcoming. It was ONLY “HIS Word” spoken through me, “not mine” that created the “Substance,” the “Faith,” “The Frame,” “The Insulation” and ultimately the “Divine Protection” that calmed the atmosphere.

Why is speaking The Word of God so important?

Here is our answer,

Psalm 107:20 (AMPC);

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

God can’t Send forth His Word to bring healing or deliverance, “from any pit or destruction” unless we Open our mouth and “Speak His Word,” which releases His Manifest Presence, (His Personhood) into the atmosphere surrounding the obstacle or obstacles that we may be facing at the time. Yes! His Words, coming out of our mouth my friend can alter History! Go back and read Joshua 10:12-14, in your Bible where this Mighty Man of God commanded “The sun to stand still,” in order for the Israelites to win an important victory, and you will see what I am talking about!

I have witnessed Father God Show up, time and time again when I have implemented this vital truth in my life! However, when I have failed to implement this principle in my life or have been delayed or distracted in utilizing The Word Of God against the attacks of the enemy, I have experienced some serious and costly setbacks. My friend, the cry of my heart in sharing this testimony with you, is to remind us of the importance of learning to be quick in our obedience to The Instructions of The Lord at ALL TIMES! Our life could depend on it, and for many of us, it has!

How do we learn to operate in this principle?

Through Obedience.

1st Samuel 15:22-23 (AMP);

“Samuel said, Has The Lord as great a delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of The Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.” “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as idolatry and teraphim (household good luck images). Because you have rejected the Word of The Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.”

Here the Prophet Samuel is informing a disobedient King Saul of the penalty of doing things, “his way,” (disobedience) versus “God’s Way,” (obedience). You see my friend, anytime we choose to do things “our way” outside of The Will or Direction of God for our lives, we are actually, “Rejecting God” through our disobedience. When we do this, we reject His Safety and Protection for our lives! If we continually live this way, outside of God’s Will, rejecting His Safety and Protection for our lives without making an, “About Face of The Heart,” we will, like this Ancient King, “lose everything!”

What Instructions has God given you, my friend If any, that you have yet to acknowledge or follow-up?

Are there any areas in your life that you do not sense God’s safety and protection?

Have you allowed your decisions to replace God’s Direction for your life?

Is there a passage of scripture or scriptures that The Lord has impressed you to study or memorize?

My friend, I want to encourage you to invest some time with The Lord, Listening to His Heart for Your Life. See what He has to say to you, then quickly follow through on any instructions that He has given to you. Your life and others may one day depend on it!

Psalm 119:11 (AMP);

“Your Word have I laid up in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”

BE STRONG AND LIVE FREE……….BOLDLY FOR HIM!

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

Photo By: Joanna Nix

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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

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“In The Cool Of The Day”

What was it about “the cool of the day” that made their walks so special? With every step, every breath, and every idea that they shared, a supernatural; bond of love was eternally forged, between God and mankind. Daily as Adam and Eve walked with God in “The Garden of Eden,” (the home that God Had Made and prepared for them), together they discussed God’s Plans for man. This filled their hearts with joy and expectation! These times of communion with His Creation were priceless to God, and they still are! God would do anything within His Power to protect this Divine Holy Intimacy with man, and HE DID!

John 3:16 (AMPC);

“For God so greatly loved and clearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.”

Since Adam and Eve walked with God, why did He give up “His Only Begotten Son” for man?

In Genesis 3:1-13 (NKJV), we read about Adam and Eve’s “Fall of The Heart,” the reason for God’s “Sacrificial Gift” to man.

“Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made.  And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden?”  “And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden;”  “but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’”  “Then the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die.”  “For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”  “So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate.  She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate.”  “Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings.”  “And they heard the sound of The Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from The Presence of The Lord God among the trees of the garden.”  “Then The Lord God called to Adam and said to him, “Where are you?”  “So he said, “I heard Your Voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked and I hid myself.”  “And He said, “Who told you that you were naked?  Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?”  “Then the man said, “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate.”  “And The Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?”  The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.”

By yielding to the serpent’s deception, Adam and Eve committed the “first sin” and lost their “Walk with God.” This loss of innocence and communion with God resulted in a “Breach of Heart,” an unspeakable void that could be felt throughout The Kingdom of Heaven! So great was this loss that in order to “Heal The Breach” created by man’s fall, God implemented His Own Redemptive, “Plan Of The Heart,” that we read earlier in John 3:16.

Ephesians 1:5-7 (TPT) gives us additional insight into this Redemptive, “Plan of The Heart”

“For it was always in His Perfect Plan to adopt us as His delightful children, through our union with Jesus, The Anointed One, so that His tremendous Love that cascades over us would Glorify His Grace-for the same Love He has for HIs Beloved One, Jesus, He Has for us.  And this Unfolding Plan brings Him Great Pleasure!”  “Since we are joined to Christ we have been given the Treasures of Redemption by HIS Blood-the total cancellation of our sins-all because of the cascading riches of His Grace.”

What exciting news, my friend! You and I through The Shed Blood of Jesus Christ and “The Cascading Riches of His Grace,” have been given access to Walk With God Again!  We find out in the above scriptures that, “It was always in His Perfect Plan to adopt us as His delightful children, through our union with Jesus, The Anointed One.”

So let me ask you an important question:

 Are you walking with God, or are you hiding from Him “In the cool of the day?” 

You see my friend when you and I walk with God, there is a Brilliant Illumination of The Holy Spirits’ Presence the emanates from within us.  The Resilient Eternal Glow of a Transparent Heart, that lives in total peace and harmony with “The One True God.” A peace and harmony that is so compelling that those we come in contact with are drawn to walk with God, “In the cool of the day,” as we live our lives before them.

On the other hand, when you and I decide to hide from Him  “In the cool of the day,” we forfeit our “times of refreshing” as our spiritual wells run dry.

Acts 3:19-20 (TPT) is a refreshing drink from Heaven, and a cooling oasis for our parched and weary souls;

“And now you must repent and turn back to God so that your sins will be removed, and so that times of refreshing will stream from The Lord’s Presence.”  “And He will send you Jesus, The Messiah, The Chosen One for you.”

Jesus Christ, “The Anointed One,” is our Personal Savior, my friend, “The Chosen One for You,”……and me!   

Ever since the “fall of man” in “The Garden of Eden,” God determined to bring Redemption and Restoration to EVERY Repentant Heart, that calls upon The Name of Jesus Christ for Salvation!

Now is your time, my friend! God is longing to walk with you, “In the cool of the day!”

If you are weary, dry, and loaded down with the burden of sin and ready to repent and walk with Him,“In the cool of the day,” now and forever; please join me in praying the following prayer:

“Dear Jesus, I need you and want You in my life! Please forgive me for the sins that I have committed. I repent for them now. Come into my heart Jesus and be my Lord! I want to walk with You, “In the cool of the day,” I love you, God!

With this prayer of the heart my friend, Salvation through, “The Shed Blood of Jesus Christ” is yours! The reproach of sin has FOREVER BEEN REMOVED from your life as you are now a, “Born Again” Christian….A Christ Follower of The Most High God, Supernaturally Equipped To:

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

2nd Corinthians 5:17 (NLT);

“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person.  The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”  

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

Photo By Simon Berger

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Open Heart Test – Part One

Two Kings, two hearts, two test’s with two very different outcomes. 

Perhaps the greatest test that you and I will ever take will not be taken in a classroom setting, sitting at a desk or administered to us by a teacher on-line.  Where will it be taken then?  It will be a test of the heart, taken as we go through everyday life.  “This “Open Heart Test” my friend, may be one that you are right in the middle of taking right now, and not even aware of.        

Emboldened by his past successes and pumped with pride, King Asa impatiently motions for Hanani the seer to approach him in the Throne Room.  Expecting an accolade from The Lord for his latest building projects of the cities of Geba and Mizpah, King Asa sits smugly with his arms folded in front of him, lifting his finely chiseled chin he stares down his regal nose at the awaiting seer.

Hanani knows in his heart that there are great risks to this assignment of The Lord, yet as it is with every true voice of God, he has counted the cost and lives for no earthly reward. Indeed, much damage had been done to The Kingdom of God because of King Asa’s rebellion to enter into a league with Ben-hadad King of Syria; now it had to be dealt with!  Undergirded by prayer, fasting and a bold love for God, the courageous seer opens his mouth, instantly The Penetrating Word of The Lord shoots forth as a Blazing Arrow of Holy Righteousness, hitting the target, “King Asa’s hardened heart of rebellious pride!”  

Un-surprisingly delivering the Word and Judgement of God to an enraged King brings a swift repercussion to Hanani, yet he has no regret for his obedience to The Lord!  Indeed Hanani’s confident assurance for the outcome of his life, is secure in the fact that these crucial words of truth and the judgements given are not of his own manufacturing, they belong to The Lord.

Rather than receive the rebuke of The Lord and repent for his spiritual adultery, King Asa hardens his heart even further and foolishly chooses with one quick decision to jail Hanani.  Tragically, King Asa fails this, “Open Heart Test,” without realizing that you cannot jail the truth! The repercussions for his actions would live on!

II Chronicles 16:1-10 (AMP) is the astounding account of this dramatic story;

“In the thirty-sixth year of Asa’s reign, Baasha King of Israel came up against Judah, and built (fortified) Ramah intending to intercept anyone going out or coming in to Asa King of Judah.”  “Then Asa brought silver and gold out of the treasuries of The House of The Lord and of the King’s house and sent them to Ben-hadad King of Syria, who dwelt at Damascus, saying,”  “Let there be a league between me and you, as was between my father and your father.  Behold, I am sending you silver and gold; go, break your league with Baasha King of Israel, that he may withdraw from me.”  “And Ben-hadad hearkened to King Asa and sent the captains of his armies against the cities of Israel; and they smote Ijon, Dan, Abel-maim, and all the store cities of Naphtali.”  “And when Baasha heard it, he stopped building Ramah and let his work cease.”  “Then King Asa took all Judah, and they carried away the stones of Ramah and its timber with which Baasha had been building, and with them he built Geba and Mizpah.”  “At that time Hanani the seer came to Asa King of Judah and said to him, Because you relied on the King of Syria and not on the Lord your God, the army of the King of Syria has escaped you.”  “Were not the Ethiopians and Libyans a huge host with very many chariots and horsemen?  Yet because you relied then on The Lord, He gave them into your hand.”  “For the eyes of The Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth to show Himself strong in behalf of those whose hearts are blameless toward Him.  You have done foolishly in this; therefore, from now on you shall have wars.”  “Then Asa was angry with the seer and put him in prison [in the stocks], for he was enraged with him because of this.  Asa oppressed some of the people at the same time.”

“When leadership fears truth, corruption begins.”  This word given to me by The Lord several months ago, applies so well to the life of King Asa, as it does to ours today, if we choose the way of hard hearted rebellion as he did.     

You see my friend, the corruption of King Asa’s heart and reign over Judah began long before God sent Hanani the seer to confront him.  The corruption of King Asa’s heart began the moment he disconnected from God as his “True Source,” and looked to the, “strength of man” the King of Syria for his deliverance.  What is so devastating about this true life account of epic self destruction, is that King Asa takes “the silver and gold out of the treasuries of The House of The Lord and of the King’s house,” treasuries that he once valued with his “Whole Heart” and uses them to bribe the King of Syria with!”  In essence, “King Asa deifies himself” above The One True God as a source of provision and protection to another “man!”  Oh how far he had fallen and didn’t even know it!!!

How could this happen?  Why did it happen?  King Asa had so much going for him, how could he so easily forget the past victories that God had given him when he sought The Lord with his “Whole Heart;” and now think that, “the strength of man,” could deliver him?

There is something so deep happening here my friend!  When I went to The Lord in the middle of writing this blog and asked Him these questions, He quickly brought King Asa’s mother to my thoughts, the former Queen Maacah, whom King Asa had removed from position as Queen Mother earlier in his reign. The Lord then shared this startling revelation with me:

“HE REMOVED HER FROM POSITION, BUT NOT FROM INFLUENCE”!!!!!!!

Instantly my spirit was open to The Word of the Lord!

Friends, I want to share this revelation with you exactly in the same manner in which The Lord shared it with me.

II Chronicles 15:16-17 (AMP)  “Also Maacah, King Asa’s mother, he removed from being Queen Mother, because she had made an abominable image for [the goddess] Asherah.  Asa cut down her idol, crushed it, and burned it at the brook Kidron.”

Here in verse 16 is where King Asa, “REMOVES HIS MOTHER FROM POSITION.”

“But the high places were not taken out of Israel.  Nevertheless, the heart of Asa was blameless all his days.”

“However, here in verse 17 is where King Asa, “RETAINS HER INFLUENCE.”

The demonic influences from King Asa’s mother had been planted like poisonous seeds in King Asa’s heart, when he did not take, “the high places out of Israel.” 

Though he had removed her from position of Queen Mother, he did not remove the, “influence” of her position from his heart or from his eyes, still leaving the nation of Israel defiled.  He allowed those poisonous seeds of rebellion, idolatry and pride to have a place in his heart. When King Asa came under pressure in the natural realm, those seeds of rebellion, idolatry and pride, that were sown in the spiritual realm, came to fruition as a harvest of death and self destruction!  Inevitably it would cost him everything!

1. My friend, are there any demonic influences that you need to remove from holding a “position” in your life?

2. Have these seeds of “influence” been allowed to remain or grow in your heart?

If so, uproot any leftover seeds of corruption from the past. You don’t want any residue from any evil influence that could catch your eyes, or change your heart.

You see my friend we are not playing a game called life we are walking out a, “God Planned  Purpose” for our lives! “Everything that exalts itself against the knowledge of God” in our hearts and lives must be taken down or they will take us down!  Ref. 2nd Cor. 10:5.

I am prompted by the The Holy Spirit as I am writing this, that some of you, like King Asa, have removed from “position” a source of evil from your lives. However, their “influence” is still “active” in your life, therefore the enemy is just waiting for an opportunity to bring a harvest of self destruction to pass in your life!  My friend, my prayer for you is that you will take this word “to heart”, and quickly make the necessary adjustments spirit, soul and body that are needed in order to remove and eradicate every, “influence of evil” that has been sown by these sources from your life and heart!

Please pray the following prayer with me:

Dear Heavenly Father, I submit my life and heart to You.  Please show me any evil seed that has been planted in my life and heart that would cause me and others to stumble and fall short of the plans and purposes of God.  I ask You Father God that every one of those seeds of rebellion, idolatry and pride be uprooted in Jesus Name!  I now make a fresh commitment to Plant Your Word  in the soil of my heart today, Father God, realizing that You Alone Are THE Source, and Final Authority of my life.  I repent of placing myself and others above You in any way Lord, and I receive Your Divine Forgiveness Now in Jesus Mighty Name!  Amen and Amen!

Now my friend you can,

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

Proverbs 4:23 (TPT);

“So above all guard the affections of your heart, for they affect all that you are.  Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being, for from there flows the wellspring of life.”

*Next months blog will be part two of this message.”

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

Photo by : Antonino Visalli

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“Alive and Well”

In this time of upheaval and uncertainty, God is sending a message of HOPE that is LOUD and CLEAR…..that IN HIM WE ARE, “ALIVE AND WELL!”

Friend, as I was praying about and thinking about writing August 2020’s blog, The Lord reminded me of the blog that He instructed me to write and publish in December of 2019. As I went back and re-read that blog, I felt impressed to re-publish it this month.

Why? I realized that, this blog, “Alive and Well” was and is a, “Forerunner of Encouragement” to us as we continue to walk out the days, months and years before us, “Strong and Free…..Boldly For Him!”

Much Love,

-Clare-

“Christ’s Resurrection is your resurrection too. This is why we are to yearn for all that is above, for that’s where Christ sits enthroned at the Place of All Power, Honor, and Authority!” “Yes, feast on all the treasures of the Heavenly Realm and fill your thoughts with Heavenly Realities, and not with the distractions of the natural realm.” Colossians 3:1-2 (TPT)

At the beginning of 2019, The Lord instructed me to write two specific blogs to start the New Year. January’s title is, “The Expected End” and February’s title is, “Inner-Action”.  Now as we have come to the last month of the decade, and are about to embark on what I believe will be a “Whole New Era” for the Body of Christ in the coming years; The Lord redirected my attention back to these two blogs.

As I re-read what He had to share with us through these writings, I became keenly aware that these blogs encapsulate what He is now saying to us through this last, “Boldly For Him” blog of the year. With 2019 quickly coming to a close, The Lord wants us to know that as we approach 2020, that no matter where we are or what we may be currently facing, that as Born Again Believers in Jesus Christ, the reality of our, “Expected End” is that we are, ”Alive And Well”, In Him as we recognize, renew, develop and mature our, “Inner-Action” to the truths that are shared with us in Colossians 3:1-2 (TPT).

To fully grasp what The Lord is now saying through this blog, I think it’s important for me to refresh us on the definition of “Inner-Action.”

Inner-Action = The relationship between the mind, the will and the emotions and how they are displayed in an individual’s life through their interaction with God and others.

You see my friend we are entering a time where everything that can be challenged will be challenged regarding what we believe about our identity In Jesus Christ. It is an Era, a decade, a time that will see much fruit as well as much loss within The Body of Christ. Why?….. because of the very pressure that is coming in the days ahead that will cause many to continue to be deceived, stumble and fall in their individual and corporate walk with The Lord. That is why it is so important my friend that you and I, “fill our thoughts with Heavenly Realities, and not with the distractions of the natural realm.”  Ref. Col 3:2 (TPT) 

What we learn and who we learn from can greatly affect what we believe about our God Given identity In Christ Jesus. So much so that the Apostle Paul gave the following instructions to his spiritual son Timothy who was an Evangelist and Pastor in the ancient town of Ephesus:

2nd Timothy 2:15 (AMP);

“Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.”

The Word of God and the Truths that have been “Rightly Divided” and “Accurately Taught” to us must become so “Deeply Rooted Within Us”, that no matter what distraction, adversity or challenge may come our way; we are confident that we can live our lives as one who is “Alive and Well” because of the TRUTH that “Christ’s Resurrection IS OUR Resurrection too!” Ref. Col 3:1 (TPT)  

Understanding and accurately applying this passage of scripture in Col 3:1-2, in our daily walk, as Believers is paramount to a healthy, “Inner-Action” with God and others. An overcoming “Inner-Action” that will lead to Total Victory in every area of our lives, Spirit, soul, and body, in the coming days ahead. To God Be The Glory!

How does this Biblical Principle work in our lives?  

Colossians 3:3-4 (TPT) gives us the answer;

“Your crucifixion with Christ has severed the tie to this life, and now your true life is hidden away with God in Christ.” “And as Christ, Himself is seen for Who He Is, who you are will also be revealed, for YOU ARE NOW ONE WITH HIM IN HIS GLORY.”

This is not just a figure of speech my friend these are the Words of God Himself and the REALITY of Who We Are In Christ Jesus! According to the Word of God, we as Believers, have “severed the tie to this life.”  Meaning we no longer are bound or have any obligation whatsoever to live a defeated life of sin, sickness, poverty, shame, etc.!

Can this be proven by the Word of God? 

Yes, let’s see what He has to say to us in Colossians 3:5-9 (TPT);

“Live as one who has died to every form of sexual sin and impurity. Live as one who died to diseases, and desires for forbidden things, including the desire for wealth, which is the essence of idol worship.” “When you live in these vices you ignite the anger of God against these acts of disobedience.” “That’s how you once behaved, characterized by your evil deeds. But now it’s time to eliminate them from your lives once and for all-anger, fits of rage, all forms of hatred, cursing, filthy speech, and lying.” “Lay aside your old Adam-self with its masquerade and disguise.”

God went to great lengths for you and me my friend to be, “Alive and Well” through the Crucifixion of His Son Jesus Christ, our Lord, and Savior! You see, Calvary not only Confronted, but CALVARY also DEFEATED EVERY FORM of sin, sickness, poverty, and disease for all men, for all time…PERIOD! Calvary did not console the enemy, by fearing him and accepting his slander against the Shed Blood of Jesus Christ. Calvary Confronted and Cast the evil works of the enemy out forever!

This is The Resurrection Power of 1st Peter 1:24 (TPT);

“He carried our sins in His body on the Cross so that we would be dead to sin and live for righteousness, Our INSTANT healing flowed from His Wounding.”

Therefore my friend, you and I as believers in Christ Jesus are not to console the enemy by fearing him and caving in when he attacks us with sin, sickness, poverty, and disease, we are to confront him with The Living Word of God and cast him out of our lives, spirit, soul, and body! It is not through our strength that we do this, it is through “The Blood of Jesus Christ”, that was Shed At Calvary. My friend, it is “The Good News” of His Resurrection Power that RESIDES WITHIN US that gives us, as Believers in Christ Jesus, the AUTHORITY AND THE RESPONSIBILITY to Confront and Cast out the devil and all of his evil works from EVERY area of our lives!

Did God give me this responsibility?

YES! Jesus Himself tells us about this “Priceless Privilege” in the following passages of scripture:

 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!”

Mark 16:16-18 (TPT);

“Whoever believes the Good News and is baptized will be saved, and whoever does not believe the Good News will be condemned.” “And these miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will drive out demons in the power of My Name. They will speak in tongues.” “They will be supernaturally protected from snakes, and from drinking anything poisonous. And they will lay hands on the sick and heal them.”

Never doubt my friend the Power of The Name of Jesus spoken out of your mouth as a Believer in Jesus Christ! It is the same power and authority that was given to the first Disciples! As modern-day Believers it is our turn to do what these Forefathers of Faith did, to take the healing power of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world, to “lay hands on the sick and heal them”, this includes laying hands on yourself!  This Mandate is how we perpetuate the Eternal Message of Calvary! A Precious “Blood Bought” Message that Forever Speaks that, WE ARE, “Alive and Well” and Empowered to,

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

© 2019 Clare Matthews – Boldly For Him. “All Rights Reserved.”