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Tag: identity-in-christ

March 13, 2025

Shifting Atmospheres through God’s Word

Use Scripture to shift the spiritual realm!

My oldest son just recently got over the flu. He was so achy that he couldn’t sleep more than a few hours at night! One evening, when his body was really bothering him, he kept repeating a verse over and over. Which one? I’m sure many of you are familiar:  

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

“Hope and a future.” Those were the words that Cory was clinging to. But what was he really doing? Shifting atmospheres! Cory was shifting his mindset to agree with God’s truth. He probably repeated this verse a hundred times before his brain slowed down and allowed him to rest.

The Power of Scripture

It’s easy to take Scripture for granted. We hear it quoted in church and see it splashed on social media. But we forget just how powerful these words are. Scripture says: 

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. – Hebrews 4:12 

Scripture has the capacity to change our hearts and minds. It can align our thoughts with Heaven’s perspective and even shift the atmosphere around us.

How to Shift the Atmosphere through God’s Word

In most cases, our battles are won or lost in the mind. Meaning, even if we’re facing a physical issue, our outlook determines whether we rise above it. It’s like the saying: “Praying may not change my situation, but it will change how I view the situation.” Sometimes we just need a change in perspective. Immersing ourselves in Scripture is a great way to do so. 

In my own life, when I’m facing a challenge, I choose a verse that speaks to me. Then, I declare it until I feel it take root in my heart. For instance, when I feel afraid, I find a verse that fills me with courage (like Joshua 1:9) and declare it over myself. If I feel depressed, I find a verse like Nehemiah 8:10 that fills me with joy.  

You’ll know if this exercise works when your thoughts shift from negative (fear, depression, bitterness) to God’s truth (faith, hope, joy). In a way, you’re brainwashing your mind into believing what God is saying. It’s a great way to rewire your brain.

Some Powerful Verses to Declare

If you’re facing challenges, use these verses to shift your thinking. Again, declaring a verse might not immediately change your situation, but it will shift your perspective to walk through it until it does change.. If none of these verses resonate with you, choose one of your own:

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8 NIV – This verse is great for shifting the atmosphere from restlessness to sleep.

“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13 NLT – This is a perfect verse to fill you with hope. 

“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” – Matthew 19:26 ESV 

– Declaring this verse will remind you that you are powerful in Him over all situations. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…” – Psalm 23:4 ESV – When you’re really in it, this verse will speak truth to your heart and help you to connect to His Spirit during trying times.

Conclusion

These are just a few verses, but in my life, they’ve done wonders for me. In your own Bible study time, see which passages leap out at you. Take note of ones that speak directly to your heart, then memorize them so you can declare them over yourself in times of struggle. When you’re feeling under the weight of an atmosphere, use God’s holy Word to break you free. 

P.S: For more tips on how to shift atmospheres, check out my book: Shifting Atmospheres.

January 30, 2025

Is there a Spirit of Discernment?

Do we need it?

Spirit of Discernment

“How do you know when a thought or feeling is from God?” This is a question I hear a lot from students who learn the Sozo tools. 

Sozo is all about following the Holy Spirit, so it’s crucial we use God’s spirit of discernment to keep our spiritual eyes and ears open. 

But what if you don’t hear from God? 

“I’m a literal person!” You say. “I only feel God’s presence when I read His Word.”

The truth is you can hear or sense Him! 

It just may be different from how someone else experiences Him.

The Spirit of Discernment

God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and self-discipline. 

He’s also given us a spirit of discernment that allows us to identify what’s going on in the atmosphere.

Discernment is crucial for us to avoid deception. It allows us to distinguish between spirits.

It also helps us to know what to do with the information we receive. For instance…

… when you’re in a session and you hear hopelessness, do you share it with the client? Is it even meant to be shared?

Sometimes God gives us information and wants to keep it private. Sometimes we hear incorrectly.

Discernment helps sort out what to do with our insights.

Wisdom in Sharing

While it’s tempting to share every detail the Lord gives us, the spirit of discernment helps us to practice restraint when necessary. 

For example, one of my Firsts was in a session with me. They kept hearing the phrase: Go big or go home.

They felt it was from the Lord and declared boldly: “I feel like the Lord is telling you to go big or go home!”

As soon as the words left their mouth, I felt in my spirit, Nope, that’s not right.

The client sat up and said, “What?! There’s no way. I’ve given up everything to move here.”

Spirit of Discernment

Thankfully, people are free to accept or reject a word. But some lack the discernment to disagree and it causes damage!

This is where Prophetic Deliverance comes in. When you hear something, lean into the Holy Spirit and decide: is this for me? Or can I share it? 

What makes this process difficult is there are so many voices speaking at the same time: the enemy, spiritual atmospheres, and even people who bring their own feelings into a session.

If we don’t rely on God’s spirit of discernment, we’ll miss out on what He wants to do. 

Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is Freedom

The Spirit of the Living God has equipped us to hear, sense, and see what’s going on in the spiritual realm. 

It’s a wonderful gift that shouldn’t be taken lightly. 

If you’re unsure whether a thought or impression is from God, run it by these sniff tests: 

1. Compare it to God’s Word: Does it line up with Scripture? If not, toss it in the garbage.

2. Determine if it Encourages, Uplifts, or Edifies: Unless you’re a seasoned prophet with clear accountability, stick to revelations that uplift or edify. 

3. Ask God if a Revelation you Receive is Supposed to be Shared: Is your revelation from God? If so, what does He want you to do with it?

These are just a few strategies you can use to discern God’s heart for the information you receive.

Conclusion

Discernment is a wonderful gift. Each of us should hone it so we can advance Heaven’s Kingdom. 

Just as God has not given us a spirit of fear, He also hasn’t given us a spirit of powerlessness, immaturity, or foolishness. 

Rely on the spirit of discernment to determine what to do with the information you’re sensing, then partner with God to decipher the purpose of this insight.

P.S. If you need more information on how to strengthen your discernment, check out my online training: Shifting Atmospheres.

December 18, 2024

Lessons from King David and King Solomon

What can they teach us?

Temple of Jerusalem

While reading through 1 Kings, I found myself contemplating the lives of King David and King Solomon. Both left profound legacies, but their journeys revealed a fascinating truth: sometimes, trials can equip us for success.  

David and Solomon’s lives were very different. King David built his kingdom slowly through years of advancement. King Solomon inherited an already prosperous kingdom, yet struggled to maintain his footing. 

Both of their stories raise an important question: If we don’t experience resistance, does it make us weak and unable to hold onto our breakthrough? 

The Generational Pattern of Breakthroughs

My husband, Stephen, often shares this sobering statistic: 70% of one generation’s wealth is lost by the second, and 90% is lost by the third. This pattern doesn’t just apply to finances—it extends to spiritual breakthroughs and character development. 

It’s an endless cycle where one generation fights for breakthrough, the next inherits it, and the third loses it altogether. But why does this happen? 

It might be that those who had to fight for their breakthrough form the character needed to hold on to their blessing. In contrast, those who simply receive an upgrade might not have the character to handle it.

The Trials of King David

Let’s look at the life of King David. As a young shepherd, David demonstrated remarkable bravery. After defeating a lion and a bear, he took on Goliath, and saved Israel from the Philistines.

David was anointed king, but his journey was far from smooth. David faced relentless challenges. He spent years running from King Saul, enduring betrayal, and fighting skirmishes to establish his kingdom. Rather than causing destruction, these trials forged David into a strong leader who depended on God in every situation. 

Even so, David was far from perfect. After his affair with Bathsheba, David committed murder and tried to cover up his sin. He repented, but the consequences of his actions reverberated through his family for generations.

Overall, David’s life teaches us that trials can shape our character. Even so, we must stay vigilant, especially in times of success.

The Legacy of King Solomon

Now let’s look at Solomon. King Solomon inherited the throne from his father, David. Known for his wisdom and wealth, Solomon is often regarded as one of Israel’s greatest rulers.

Solomon’s path to kingship was different from his father’s. Unlike David, Solomon grew up in a time of peace. He didn’t have many battles to face. Solomon inherited the fruits of his father’s labor. 

I think this is one reason why Solomon lacked maturity. Without years of relying on God in intense situations, Solomon failed when it came to guarding against sexual temptation and idolatry. It’s a tragedy that shows how even the wisest of men can fall away from God.

Lessons for Our Lives

So, what can we learn from the lives of David and Solomon?

  1. Think about the legacy you’re building: the choices you make affect not only you, but future generations. Build a legacy that honors God and withstands the test of time.
  2. Embrace trials as opportunities for growth: challenges are not something to fear. They’re opportunities for God to shape you into a healthier person.
  3. Stay connected to God in all seasons: stay grounded in your relationship with the Lord, especially in times of plenty. This can be incredibly hard, but it’s essential to build your character.

Conclusion

Good times are a blessing from God, but don’t treasure them so much that you retreat from any signs of stress. Without resistance, you risk regressing into a weaker person. God wants you to become a mighty leader!

As you reflect on the stories of King David and King Solomon, consider where you are on your own journey. Are you in a season of trials? If so, be encouraged! God is strengthening you so you can handle blessing. If you’re already in a season of breakthrough, stay grateful and guard your heart against complacency.

P.S: For more information on this topic, check out my hubby’s post, Can a rich person go to heaven?.

May 2, 2024

Breaking Free from an Identity of Disappointment

Invite the Holy Spirit to displace this mindset.

I had the opportunity to attend Bethel’s Healing Conference, headlined by Bill Johnson and Randy Clark. There were so many healings. One woman who had facial injuries confessed to being pain free after receiving prayer! Another man’s shoulder was miraculously healed. Even my daughter-in-law, Colleen, experienced healing in her knee after twisting it during Christmas Break.

I didn’t make the last day, but the most impactful session for me was Bill Johnson’s sermon during the second night. He spoke about navigating disappointment. He opened this teaching with the story of his wife, Beni, who had passed away from cancer two years before. It was a heavy message, and you could tell Bill was emotional in getting through it.

In this teaching, Bill described how people sometimes partner with an identity of disappointment. He said, “I meet with BSMM Alumni all over the world. I love hearing their testimonies, and seeing how they’re still walking with God. But I also hear the stories of those who turned away. Those who couldn’t handle a difficult season and are now living their own lives.” 

Bill diagnosed this problem as being unable to handle disappointment, and I could tell it broke his heart. I resonated with this idea myself, having gone through my own seasons of discouragement. Scripture tells us to “Rejoice always, pray continually,” and “give thanks in all circumstances.” This sounds doable when everything is going well. But what about those times when it feels like our prayers don’t get answered? What do we do then?

Bill suggested that people who can walk with God through tragedy are less likely to abandon their faith. The Bible says we “walk through the valley of the shadow of death.” When we enter this valley, do we pull on our relationship with God and make it through? Or do we settle in our despair and give up? 

I’ve mentioned how hard it was for me to have to schedule my knee surgery. I had so much faith that God would heal me. After all, I’d prayed for countless people who received healing in their knees! Yet, for some reason, I didn’t receive my miracle.

It was hard for me to not feel abandoned, but what Bill said was so profound. He ended his session by saying, “Some people in here have actually partnered with an identity of disappointment. You’ve worn it like a cloak, almost proud of it.”

I felt a stirring in my spirit and began praying as he brought up this revelation. I realized this was so true. In Sozo, I meet with people all over the world. Some of these individuals have experienced horrific abuse, and it’s difficult to not adopt a mantle of disappointment or victimhood. But, discouragement, disappointment, and a victim mindset are not conducive to our identity in Christ.

Bill closed the night by leading everyone in what was essentially a congregational Sozo. He had us break agreement with this identity and declare the Lord’s truth over our hearts. It was a powerful exchange. 

Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit if you have partnered with offense in any way. If discouragement, disappointment, anger, or unbelief has hardened your heart toward the Lord, repent and break agreement with these mindsets. Then invite the Holy Spirit to fill you with His joy. 

March 13, 2024

Are you in a hurry?

Slow down and embrace your role in Christ’s story.

If you’ve been following me, you’ll know that I’m truly excited about being a part of Jesus’ narrative. This recent shift in perspective has been so powerful for me. It’s redirected my focus from what I need to how to serve God’s plans.

To start this journey, I’ve explored Jesus’ story in Matthew 1, delving into the generations leading up to His birth. I couldn’t help but notice a profound realization: God is not in a hurry!

You see, it took many generations from Adam to Jesus. God’s plan was to disempower sin, yet He waited thousands of years to bring the answer. What’s up with that? Why didn’t He bring Jesus sooner?

Reflecting on my own life, I notice that I desire faster results. I get frustrated when my hopes don’t manifest quickly. But God’s timing is so much better!

I’m now asking Him in waiting seasons, “What do you want to do in this situation that wasn’t a part of my original plan?” This helps me realize that I get to play a role in His plans for me each day.

In Matthew 2, we’re told of Jesus’ many hometowns: first Bethlehem, then Egypt, then Galilee. With His arrival at each location, a specific prophecy was fulfilled. 

Disruptions in our lives might seem like obstacles, but God can use them nonetheless. Just look at history! There were countless opportunities for Jesus’ destiny to be derailed. Yet, each time, God’s plan prevailed. Can we entrust Him with the responsibility of bringing His plans to pass?

Stay hopeful in the midst of waiting

I want to encourage anyone who feels impatient or disillusioned: you cannot thwart God’s plans. His promises will come to pass. Your job is to remain joyful and steadfast, continue in prayer, and believe His outcome is on the way. 

Jesus wasn’t hurried or anxious. He steadily moved toward the fulfillment of His promises, and His answer for your struggles is on its way. Partner with God’s peace and realize He is King of the impossible. He will get you to where you need to be.

I pray you will fully align with God’s story and embrace your role each day. Instead of wondering, How will His plans work out for me today? trust in His timing to position you in His narrative.

February 25, 2024

Who are you in Christ’s story?

Discover your role.

It’s easy to view yourself as the main character in your own story. Especially as Americans, our mind focuses on me, me, me most of the time. We ask: How do I advance my career, get my kids through school, get noticed as a minister, or even pay my bills? 

It’s a self-centered drive that’s reinforced in our daily prayers: God open doors for me, God heal me, provide more finances, and even, God help me to represent you well.

In these past few years, I too have slipped into this mentality. My prayers have focused on my ministry, my family, my finances, and my knee pain, which ultimately resulted in a total knee replacement.

This inward perspective has aimed my prayers at what I perceive I need rather than what God knows I need. But last year, during a women’s meeting led by Libby Gordon, I believe I was realigned to Heaven’s perspective. Her excitement of being in Christ’s narrative ignited my spirit to ask, “Whose story am I in?”

To be honest, I realized that my focus was on God being in my story. Yes, He was my hero, but He was a part of my story, not the other way around. Oops.

Somewhere along the way, my ministry, work, and life shifted my perspective from me being in His narrative (even though he was my hero) to Him being in mine.

I hope I’m explaining this well, because Libby’s teaching felt like a life-changing moment. I found myself thinking, When (not if) I truly get this concept, everything will change. I literally saw cogs in my mind fitting into a wheel and realigning as designed!

Having a son and daughter-in-law who are professional actors, I understand the concept of playing “roles” quite well. On some days, we have minor parts as bit actors. In others, we’re background performers, who are passing in the crowd. Occasionally, we get highlighted as one of the main characters. These moments are fun, but it’s important to realize—will we understand our roles for each day? Will we “play” our roles with delight?

I believe I’ve hosted the Holy Spirit well over these past 40 years. I haven’t lost the daily longing for His presence, and I love it when He works through me to bring healing and deliverance to others. I’d even go so far to say I understand Moses’ request, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.” But again, somehow my perception of God was that He was in my story.

Closing thoughts

This week, ask the Lord, “What role do You want me to play in Your story?” Maybe He wants you to reach out to an old friend and provide comfort. Maybe He wants you to be His hands in a miracle.

Whatever your role may be, embrace it with joy and anticipation, knowing that it positions you for the supernatural—because as Libby pointed out, when you’re in Jesus’ story, anything is possible!