Life is a Mist
Two things are guaranteed in this life: taxes and death.
One of my dear cousins recently passed away. Technically, she was my second cousin, but I grew up with her feeling more like an aunt. She was always so funny and full of life, and every memory I have of her is a good one. She was the sweetest foster caregiver and even adopted several of the children who had been placed in her care.
Sitting in her memorial service reminded me that we are only here for a season. God determines when we arrive and when we depart—unless we choose to end our own life sooner. I believe these earthly bodies are designed to function for a specific time, and when that time is up, they are programmed to shut down. From the moment we are born until the moment we leave, we have assignments to complete here on earth.
I am reminded of King Hezekiah, who prayed and asked God to heal him so he could live a little longer. His body was preparing to shut down, but God granted him an additional fifteen years. God didn't just heal him; He told him exactly how many more years he would live. When it was time for Moses to leave this earth, God told him to go up on Mount Nebo to see the Promised Land. Afterward, he would be gathered to his people.
Scripture tells us, "Common people are only a vapor; important people an illusion. Together on a scale, they weigh less than a vapor." (Psalm 62:9) Our time here truly is like a mist, and it is so important not to get caught up in the chaos Satan sends our way. If we're not careful, we may find ourselves aligned with the enemy rather than with Jesus Christ.
When Jesus was asked which commandment was the greatest, He replied:
"'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." (Matthew 22:37-40, ESV)
While it's important to stay informed and understand what's happening in the world around us, completing our God-given assignments should remain our main focus. My cousin understood her assignment. Everyone who came to celebrate her life spoke of her deep love for her community. Although God had blessed her with a beautiful home and a loving family, she didn’t chase after the material things of this world. Instead, she chased after loving everyone God placed in her path.
Key Takeaways:
This world is not your permanent home.
The clock of your life is ticking; make sure you are aligned correctly.
Live in such a way that you can live again—eternally with Jesus Christ.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Pay Attention
"And now, O sons, listen to me, and be attentive to the words of my mouth." — Proverbs 7:24, ESV
I am a writer, and I love to write. It is a gift God has given to me, and I love doing it. I have writing tablets, sticky notes, and journals everywhere. Many times when God gives me a thought, I struggle to figure out which journal to write it in so that I’ll know where to find it later. I was starting to get frustrated with being so disorganized, so I asked God to help me get organized. I said, *“Lord, I want to know where to put all these notes and thoughts so I can easily find them when I need them.” *We have to pay close attention and listen to God when He is speaking. Sometimes He sends answers in the least expected ways, and if we aren’t careful, we can miss Him.
We took a trip to Greece in September 2022. We booked our trip through Costco Travel, which offers a few extra incentives compared to booking on our own. Our trip included visits to three different locations in Greece: Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos. One of the benefits of booking through Costco Travel was that they handled all our transportation to and from the hotels and between destinations. When we arrived in Athens and later headed to Santorini, they had drivers who picked us up from the airport and took us to our next location. It was wonderful.
On one of those rides — I can’t remember which one — we met a wonderful couple. We were sitting and talking about where we were staying when the woman pulled out this amazing tablet. I asked her, “What is that?” She said it was a Remarkable2 and began explaining how organized it kept her. I was so impressed that I took a picture of it so I wouldn’t forget.
Three years later, in 2025, I was still asking God to help me get better organized. This time, I was sitting with a dear friend, and we were sharing some of the things we were dealing with and how we could pray for one another. Of course, one of my prayer requests was to get better organized. While we were talking, she pulled out the Remarkable2. When I saw it again, I knew God was giving me my answer for the second time.
The first time God showed me the Remarkable2, I was excited about it, but I didn’t buy it because it was expensive. I didn’t think it was the answer to my prayer. I’m not sure what I was expecting, but that wasn’t it.
Today, I have the Remarkable, and I’m learning more about how to use it every day. Every time I’m about to write, I pull out that tablet. I’ve created folders for every topic I write about, and now everything is neatly filed in one place. I used to rubber band a journal next to each book I read so I’d know where to find my notes. Now, I just open the folder on the Remarkable, and all my notes for that book are right there. I can even organize the notes in the folder by chapter or topic — whatever I choose. It’s working well.
God had answered my request three years earlier, but I missed Him. I distinctly remember the lady in Greece showing me how it worked and telling me how organized it made her. But I didn’t realize it was God giving me the answer to my prayer. I could have just prayed and asked Him, “Lord, is this for me?” — but I didn’t. Instead, I continued in my disorganized way until I became fully frustrated and asked God again. In His graciousness, He brought me back to the same answer He had already given me.
Key Takeaways:
When we pray, God hears and answers — sometimes we miss the answer.
If you are still waiting for an answer from God, ask Him if you have missed it.
This is a reminder of what God says about our prayers: “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.” — Isaiah 65:24, NIV
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
GPS 4—Take the Path
I thought I was finished writing about GPS until God took me on this experience. I was on my way to our daughter’s home to help out with our grandson. She lives about two hours away, so I always use the GPS. This particular morning, I left the house at 4:00 a.m., hoping to get there around 6:00 a.m. She needed to leave for work by 6:30 a.m., so I wanted to ensure I had enough time in case of any slowdowns.
As I was driving, I was listening to a message, and in between the speaker, my GPS would chime in with directions. The GPS had given me the usual route, so I was only half listening. About thirty minutes into the drive, the GPS told me to take a different exit. I had taken this exit once before and remembered that I did not like it. Suddenly, I felt like I heard the Holy Spirit say, "Are you going to trust me?" So, I took the exit.
As I followed the GPS, I sensed that something was up. I felt like God was trying to teach me something, even though I was reluctant. I drove with purpose and intent, paying close attention because I did not know where I was going. It was dark, with no streetlights, and I was navigating a two-lane road with water on both sides. The pressure was intense. After about 45 minutes on this unfamiliar path, I realized I was lost. I had turned too soon onto one of the roads and was now in the middle of nowhere. I had been praying, but now I was intense in my conversation to God. When I got the opportunity to pull over, I stopped and called my husband.
We share our location with each other, so when he answered the phone, I was a bit panicked. I said, "I’m lost, and I don’t know where I am. Look at my location and tell me where to go." This, of course, made him really nervous. There were now two intense people on the phone—one scared and the other trying to help in a panic. My husband found my location and told me I was headed back home. I was shocked. He said, "Just put in the GPS for home and then start over when you reach the highway you're familiar with." I agreed but, upon seeing those directions, I realized they led to even darker roads. So I said, "No, just help me figure out how to get to our daughter’s house." I reset my GPS and continued down these back roads, which felt as if they hadn’t been paved in twenty years.
As I drove, I noticed the moon shining brightly, and the GPS continued giving me directions. What caught my attention was a road named "Poverty." That I had to turn onto to get to the next road. I said, "God, are you for real?" I knew this was a lesson, but I was nervous and a bit scared because it was dark, unfamiliar, and deserted.
Finally, I made it back onto the highway and into familiar territory, and the Holy Spirit began to speak. He said, "You could have stayed on the highway you knew—that would have been easier—but you wouldn’t have grown. Many people, when I call them to unfamiliar paths, refuse to come. You hesitated because familiarity is easy." He then reminded me how the moon was always there with me, just like His presence.
I asked Him, "Why did I have to drive down a road called Poverty?" He said, "Because that is a road everyone will travel at some point in their life—whether physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. The path is part of the process. But if you keep moving forward with Me, that road will eventually come to an end." He then reminded me that, just as I could always see the moon, His presence was always with me, even on Poverty Road.
I thought about how I had called my husband instead of depending solely on God. I asked, "Did I fail when I called my husband?" He said, "Nope. You can always ask for help, but the journey is yours alone. Your husband wasn’t much help except to let you release some of your anxiety and fear. He couldn’t take the journey for you—you had to walk that path yourself." Every single person has a path that they have to walk on their own.
To my surprise, I arrived at my daughter’s house right at 6:30 a.m. I thought, "How did that happen with all the mistakes I made?" The Holy Spirit gently said, "I had already accounted for those mistakes. Just like in your journey of fulfilling your purpose, I have already considered your missteps. So do not give up—you will reach your divine fulfillment if you do not quit. It is guaranteed, and you will be right on time."
Key points:
Your journey requires courage, and you must be willing to embrace the unfamiliar.
God will always be with you, even when you feel fear—false evidence appearing real.
Stay the course, and you will reap the rewards if you do not give up.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon – Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
GPS 3 - Disobedience
And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people. Exodus 13:21-22, ESV
The scripture above reminds us that God is always leading us. He is the same God of yesterday, today, and forever. He is our GPS, and He will never leave nor forsake His children. However, disobedience can hinder us from reaching the destination He has set for us. It can even shorten our time on this earth before our designated season is fulfilled.
The Israelites refused to enter the Promised Land when God instructed them to because of fear. Most of the spies who had assessed the land brought back a negative report, spreading fear among the people. Although Caleb and Joshua gave a different account, the people refused to believe them. In fact, they even wanted to stone Caleb and Joshua! Had the glory of the Lord not intervened, they would have perished. Instead of trusting God, the Israelites grumbled, complained, and outright rejected His command. They even sought to appoint a new leader to take them back to Egypt (Numbers 14:4).
God heard their complaints and was ready to destroy them immediately, but Moses interceded on their behalf. Nevertheless, God declared their fate:
"Tell them: As I live—this is the Lord’s declaration—I will do to you exactly as I heard you say. Your corpses will fall in this wilderness—all of you who were registered in the census, the entire number of you twenty years old or more—because you have complained about me. I swear that none of you will enter the land I promised to settle you in, except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun." Numbers 14:28-30, CSB
God continued:
"I will bring your children whom you said would become plunder into the land you rejected, and they will enjoy it. But as for you, your corpses will fall in this wilderness. Your children will be shepherds in the wilderness for forty years and bear the penalty for your acts of unfaithfulness until all your corpses lie scattered in the wilderness. You will bear the consequences of your iniquities forty years based on the number of the forty days that you scouted the land, a year for each day. You will know my displeasure. I, the Lord, have spoken. I swear that I will do this to the entire evil community that has conspired against me. They will come to an end in the wilderness, and there they will die.”Numbers 14:31-35, CSB
Grumbling, complaining, and disobeying God have serious consequences. We must be careful not to fall into Satan’s traps. His goal is to catch us in our weakest moments so that we act based on our feelings rather than standing on God’s promises. Fear is never an excuse to disobey God.
Even in their disobedience and the discipline they received, God still watched over the Israelites. Though He led them away from the Promised Land, He never abandoned them—He was always their GPS.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You that Your presence is always with us and that You never leave nor forsake us. Even when You discipline us, You do not abandon Your children. We repent for our disobedience and ask You to silence the noise in our minds so that when we are tempted to stray from Your Word, we pause and surrender to You. Help us, Lord—we desire You more than anything, and our only aim is to obey You In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon – Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
GPS 2 - Journey
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. *Psalm 23:1-4, ESV
My husband and I were on our way to a book signing. It was being held in a City we had been before but we had never been to this location, so we used our GPS for directions. Along the way, we passed through a charming little town we had never seen before. Although we had traveled that route before, we had never come across this place because we always took the route we were familiar with.
Intrigued, we decided that after the book signing, we would return to explore. We ended up having a lovely time—shopping, enjoying a great meal, and simply soaking in the atmosphere.
As we wandered through the town, the Holy Spirit spoke to me: This is how you should approach the promises I have given you. He reminded me not to be so focused on reaching the destination that I miss the beautiful moments He has arranged along the way. The most important part of any assignment is the journey itself.
Then, He gave me an example—my grandson, who just turned a year old. One day, he will be eighteen; that is part of his destination. But imagine if all he did was focus on reaching eighteen and ignored the journey. The years in between would be wasted, along with all the wonderful experiences meant to shape him, teach him, and give him wisdom for adulthood.
God then showed me that every project and assignment works the same way. The ups and downs are not obstacles; they are purposefully designed to provide the wisdom, rest, and joy needed to reach the destination. We will arrive at our God-ordained destinations as long as we follow Him. However, it is up to us to experience and appreciate each moment because He dwells in the present.
Also, complaining will never shorten the time or change the process required to reach our purpose. No matter how much my grandson may one day wish to be eighteen sooner, he still has to go through the years, learning and growing. There is no way around the journey.
Key Points:
As obedient servants, our destination is guaranteed.
There are many beautiful moments along the journey that provide the wisdom we need when we reach our destination.
Slow down and trust Him in the process. Complaining will not get you there any sooner.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon – Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
GPS - Leading
The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need. He lets me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside quiet waters. He renews my life; he leads me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me. Psalm 23:1-4, CSB
I was having a conversation with a dear friend when, at some point, she asked, “You know what a GPS does, right?” I immediately thought, Yes, it gives me directions to where I’m going. But then she added, “And it leads you around all the traffic. That really made me think. The purpose of a GPS is not just to provide direction but to guide us safely and efficiently, avoiding unnecessary delays.
This reminded me of how the Holy Spirit leads us. I thought about how God led the Israelites on a longer route to the Promised Land because He knew they would be fearful if they encountered war too soon. When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them along the road to the land of the Philistines, even though it was nearby; for God said, “The people will change their minds and return to Egypt if they face war.” So he led the people around toward the Red Sea along the road of the wilderness. And the Israelites left the land of Egypt in battle formation.
Exodus 13:17-18, CSB
Sometimes, we feel like God is taking too long to bring us to our destination—whether it’s success in business, stepping into a calling, or seeing the fulfillment of a promise He placed in our hearts. But God knows what we can handle and when the timing is right. The Israelites were eager to reach the Promised Land, yet even with God leading them, they arrived at what seemed like an impossible obstacle—the Red Sea. Pharaoh’s army had them trapped.
But God had a plan. This moment was meant to strengthen their faith and show them His power. They would face many challenges on their journey, so at the very beginning, God demonstrated that He was fighting for them. I am reminded of the scripture: “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” He was strengthening them through His presence.
We must learn to rest in the fact that if we can trust a man-made GPS to get us to our destination—without it even fighting for us—how much more should we trust our Father God? He is always leading us with purpose. Trust the process. He knows exactly what He is doing. He has never failed, and He has never lost a battle!
Key Points:
Trust God – He is always leading you, even when things don’t look the way you expected.
Rely on God – Just like you trust a GPS, trust the One who created everything.
Embrace the journey – The obstacles you face are ones God has allowed for a purpose.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV on YouTube Channel
My published books are now available on Amazon – Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Delay Does not Mean Denial
Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.
Psalm 37:5, ESV
There have been times when I think about the promises God has made to me that have not yet come to pass. If I’m honest, I sometimes get discouraged. I often ask God, What am I not doing? What do I need to do? Why hasn’t this happened yet? It feels like others are receiving their blessings while I’m still waiting.
Not too long ago, God reminded me of a dear friend and his experience. We know this lovely couple through our daughter, who became friends with their daughter. The father of this family was a pastor at a thriving church. He loved the people, the community, and always believed the best for everyone. The church was part of a larger organization that had governing positions individuals could be elected to. At some point, our friend decided to run for one of those positions. He was so well-loved and respected that everyone assumed he would be appointed. But God blocked the appointment.
When you don’t know what’s happening behind the scenes, it can sometimes seem like God is not on your side. However, a few years after the election, we learned about significant corruption within the organization. God was preparing to reveal the corruption and bring those involved in illegal activities to justice. By blocking our friend’s appointment, He was protecting him from getting caught up in the mess.
Now, years later, our friend has been appointed to the position, and he is thriving! God had placed the desire in his heart, and His answer was always yes—it was just in God’s timing, not ours. We must remember the scripture: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path. Discouragement comes when we rely on our own understanding instead of God’s. We must remember to walk by faith, not by sight. His plan is always perfect!
Key Points:
There is purpose behind every move.
Delay does not mean “no”; it means keep the faith and trust God!
Our understanding is never the same as God’s.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Invisible is Real
For everything was created by Him, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him.
Colossians 1:16, CSB
Many times, when I am in prayer with God, He stops me on a word and just has me sit with it. During one particular prayer time, I remember quoting the scripture above. I can’t tell you why, but as I spoke those words, the Holy Spirit lifted the word invisible. I don’t think I even finished quoting the rest of the scripture; I just stopped and focused on that word.
He elevates words and thoughts while we are speaking because prayer is a dialogue. It’s so important to remember this, or you might miss when He is speaking directly to you. I sat and meditated on what He was saying, listening as God spoke.
He began to remind me of the things that are invisible: God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, my mind, my breath, my thoughts, my emotions, my soul, my spirit, my words, my sight, the air, the sound—and the list goes on. I remember Him saying, The most important things are invisible.
Many people are so busy trying to obtain what they can see in the flesh that they miss what is most valuable. Even now, as I write this, I am depending on the invisible to manifest the visible. I am relying on what I cannot see or touch to share this message with you. People often ask, How can you believe in a God you cannot see? My response is, How can you not? The things we depend on most in our daily lives are invisible. For a moment, imagine your life without thoughts, words, sounds, breath, air, your spirit, your soul (mind, will, and emotions)—and Jesus. I haven’t even added God into the equation because those of you who have accepted Jesus Christ already know what life is like without Him.
The word "invisible" in Greek is aoratos, meaning "unseen." I love how God has left the most important aspects of our lives unseen. God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit are physically unseen, yet their presence is evident all over the world. Similarly, our mind, will, emotions, breath, words, and thoughts are unseen, yet they manifest in our lives every day.
We call supernatural healings “miracles” because we cannot see them happening. But may I suggest to you that every day you witness supernatural miracles in your own life? They’ve become so common that we sometimes overlook the blessings God has bestowed upon us.
Jesus is real. God the Father is real. The Holy Spirit is real. You are real. The invisible is real!
When I was younger, I remember hearing a song sung in church. Some of the lyrics went:
I'm looking for a miracle, I expect the impossible, I feel the intangible, and I see the invisible.
As a child, I sang those words without realizing the miracle was already within me. Now, I see the invisible every day, and it is real.
Key Points:
Just because you cannot see something with your eyes does not mean it is not real.
Every day, you bring the invisible into the present.
You operate in the same image of God.
God said, Let there be light. What are you saying?
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Steps Ordered
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; Psalm 37:23, ESV
We had been on nanny duty for weeks, and I hadn’t had the opportunity to go for a run. The morning of our first day back home, after finishing my morning study, I decided to head out for a run. I’ll admit, my study time that morning felt a little unusual—God was leading me to scriptures that didn’t seem to align with my planned study. But as the day unfolded, I realized He was directing my path in His perfect way.
I was thrilled to be back in my running rhythm, just listening to God and enjoying the movement. By the end of my run, I made my way to a coffee shop, sweat dripping from my face. I went to the restroom to freshen up, but both doors were locked. Frustrated, I decided to run over to the Bel Air grocery store to use their restroom instead.
As I stepped out of the coffee shop and headed toward the store, I spotted one of my old bosses. To be honest, I instinctively lowered my head, hoping to avoid her—I was drenched in sweat and felt self-conscious. But when the Holy Spirit is at work, He orchestrates everything for a purpose. As I was about to pass her, she called out my name and reached out for a hug. I hesitated, saying, “Hi! But I’m really sweaty from my run—I don’t think you want a hug!”
She smiled, and we began to chat. She shared that her ex-husband had recently suffered a stroke and was in a terrible situation. Her son was trying to manage his business while her ex-husband was in a care facility. At that moment, the scriptures I had studied earlier came flooding out of me. I spoke words of encouragement, and she began praising God right there in the parking lot!
I asked if I could pray for her and her family, and she said yes. So, we stood there in the middle of the parking lot, and I prayed for her. She was so uplifted and grateful, giving thanks to God as we parted ways. Feeling joyful and full of praise, I headed toward the grocery store. But before I could go inside, a man approached me and said, “God bless you.”As I looked at him, the Holy Spirit whispered to my heart: He saw you pray, and he wants prayer too.
I asked him if I could pray for him, and he nodded, saying, “Yes.” Though he spoke little English, I understood enough to know what he needed prayer for. As I began to pray, this man lifted his arms, thanking Jesus. The Holy Spirit took over, leading the prayer and meeting his needs in ways I couldn’t have never imagined. When we finished, he was filled with joy, and so was I. As I walked away, I heard the Holy Spirit gently remind me: The two locked bathroom doors in the coffee shop weren’t a coincidence—I needed you here in this moment.
Every day of our lives is ordered by God. We just have to surrender to His will and trust Him in every moment.
Key points:
With God everything has a purpose.
Everyone sees the light of Jesus in you.
Change is apart of his plan.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Ordered Steps
My husband had a two-hour gig and invited me to ride along with him. The drive was about an hour, and he just wanted some company. Normally, I would have said, “No, thank you,” but this time, I felt prompted by the Holy Spirit to go. I brought along some paperwork to work on while I waited. As we neared the location, my husband suggested I check out the mall a couple of blocks away from the event.
Here’s the funny part—our church was hosting its 35th-anniversary gala in a few weeks, and I wasn’t sure what I was going to wear. I’d browsed the internet a few times but couldn’t find anything that matched what I had in mind. I had even prayed, asking God to provide what He wanted me to wear. So, I followed my husband’s suggestion and headed toward the mall. There were two sides to the mall. I wanted to go to the right, but I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me to go to the left and stop at Nordstrom.
Nordstrom was the last place I wanted to look—I’d already searched online and hadn’t seen anything I liked. I was tempted to head toward a couple of boutiques on the right, but the prompting to go to Nordstrom was strong. I obeyed, parked exactly where the Holy Spirit directed me, and walked into the store. As I followed His guidance, I was led to a sales rack. On the rack was a beautiful dress, but it was too big for me. I decided to try it on anyway and thought about getting it altered. That’s when the Holy Spirit said, “Ask the sales clerk to check if they have your size.”
When I stepped out of the dressing room, the Holy Spirit directed me to a young saleswoman. She was so stylish and adorable that I couldn’t help but compliment her. I said, “Oh, I love your style! You are so cute, with your boots and short skirt! I continue to tell her not to let anyone tell her otherwise.” She immediately started to tear up and said, “I really needed to hear that.”
I encouraged her, saying, “Listen, your haters are only coming after you because you are walking in who you were meant to be. It’s confirmation that you’re on the right track!” She opened up about how some friends had been treating her and said, “You were sent to give me exactly what I needed.” Then she asked, “Can I hug you?” Of course, I gave her a big hug and spoke a blessing over her. Not only did she find the dress in my size, but it was marked down even lower! Look how God ordered my steps.
At the same counter, I noticed a little girl with her mom. She looked about seven or eight years old and was wearing a “Happy Birthday” sash. She stared at me, and I felt the Holy Spirit shining through me toward her. I smiled and said, “Oh, it’s your birthday!” She beamed, and so did her mother. I reached into my purse, pulled out some cash, and handed it to her as a birthday gift. The little girl and her mom were stunned, but they both thanked me with big smiles.
I knew God had directed my steps to Nordstrom that day to meet those two individuals and bring them encouragement. He also provided me with a with a new dress! Every day, God has a plan already laid out for us. We just need to listen closely to His voice and follow His leading. When we do, we have the opportunity to experience His greatness.
Key points:
Don’t miss the promptings because of your own desires.
God has laid out a plan for us every day.
His plans bring us joy.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Encourager
But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”— these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. For who knows a person's thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual. The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:9-16, ESV
Believers have greater power under the anointing because the Spirit of God lives inside them. When the Spirit of God speaks to a believer, He communicates through their spirit. The Bible says, “They that worship God must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” The only way God communicates with His people is through the spirit. Unbelievers cannot hear or understand the Word of God because they operate out of the flesh.
Flesh gives birth to flesh, and the Spirit gives birth to spirit. There is nothing the flesh can offer to the spirit realm that benefits the spirit. The flesh cannot comprehend the Spirit of God. However, when an unbeliever accepts Christ as their personal Savior, He brings all of Himself into them. At that moment, the believer takes on the mind of Christ. Why does Jesus Christ do this? Because He desires every individual to know His Word, understand Him, and have a personal, intimate relationship with Him. He created us for fellowship and to share in His love!
The other day the Holy Spirit told me to call a dear friend. Now, I really did not know what to say to her but the Holy Spirit said, “give her a call”. So I followed his instructions. When I called I just said, “Hi love, God told me to call and check in on you so that is what I am doing.” She was so excited because she understood the mind of Christ her words were, “Oh thank you so much I love you! Thank you for letting me know that God was thinking about me. Thank you for being obedient and giving me this call” She understood that God wanted her to know just how much he loved her.
The Holy Spirit is here to help believers in every area of life. He knows we will face trouble in this world. He reminds us in that we don’t wrestle against flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. There is no way we can win our battles in the flesh. The people and problems we face are real, but they are not the root of the issue—it’s a spiritual battle. Without the presence of our Father, we are outnumbered. Amen!
As we consistently pray against the schemes of the devil and stand firm in the Word of God, we will have victory. Every believer has greater power than anything that comes against us, and that is truly good news!
Key points:
The believer must rely on the Holy Spirit within.
We were never ment to fight our battles
Follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit, He always brings victory.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Promises of God
Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Matthew 18:19-20, ESV
In one of our services, our Bishop spoke about the symbols of the Holy Spirit. He made this powerful statement: “We will not confirm the facts with our mouths; we will declare the promise of God.” I loved that! It struck me to the core, and I immediately jotted down what he said. We can be so careless with our words, often without realizing what we’re proclaiming over ourselves. We repeat the doctor’s report, what we feel, or the state of our bank accounts instead of declaring what God has promised!
The passage above assures us that whenever two people come together and agree on earth about anything they ask in prayer, it will be done by God! Of course, this applies to requests that align with His will, but everything within His will is fulfilled! Hallelujah! That is a promise of God, and I love it. Here is another promise I often declare, especially when speaking my affirmations.
So shall my word be that goes forth out of my mouth. It shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:11, KJV
Isaiah 55:11 confirms that we should declare God’s promises rather than simply stating the facts. When we speak the facts, we’re often speaking our future! If we say, “I am broke,” we are inviting brokenness into our lives. If we say, “I am sick,” we are speaking sickness back into our bodies. Instead, we should declare the promises God has given us. For example, we can say, By God’s stripes, I am healed! When you receive a bad report from the doctor, repeat His promise: God has healed all my diseases (Psalm 103:2). When it seems like you are in lack, declare, Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing (Psalm 34:10) and My God will supply every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. We must train our mouths to align with all that God has promised us.
I remember a time when my body wasn’t cooperating with me, and I said to my body: Listen, you are a servant of the Most High God! You were made by God, you came through God, and you are here to serve God. I command you to be healed right now and to move! Pain, and anything holding this body back, release it now in the name of Jesus! My body began responding! If I’m honest, I was a little surprised. But as I saw my body functioning properly, I became bolder and spoke with even greater authority: Body, you serve the Most High God! Anything holding you back, I command you to release it now! We must take authority with the power and words God has given us. I believe in God’s promises, so I speak His promises with authority!
Key points:
The promises of God are guaranteed.
God is not a man that he should lie.
Speak his promises over your life.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
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My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Opposition
The Midianites, the Amalekites and all the other eastern peoples had settled in the valley, thick as locusts. Their camels could no more be counted than the sand on the seashore. Judges 7:12, ESV
God had called Gideon to attack the Midianites, Amalekites, and other eastern peoples who had settled on the seashore of Gideon’s home in Ophrah. The passage above says the army Gideon was up against was "thick as locusts," with numbers so vast they couldn’t be counted. When God calls us to do something, the odds often seem stacked against us! This is how God works—He makes it clear that it will be His power delivering us. He works through our natural abilities, infusing them with His supernatural power, so we know that it’s Him alone who brings the victory.
Gideon had an army of 32,000 individuals and God told Gideon that was too many and he downsized that army to three hundred men. I love how compassionate God is and that he recognizes our limitations. Even though God had told Gideon he was with him, there was still fear in Gideon’s heart.
Gideon initially had an army of 32,000 men, but God told him that was too many and he downsized it to 300. I love how compassionate God is, recognizing our limitations. Although He had assured Gideon of His presence, there was still fear in Gideon’s heart. So God in his amazing way of just being God, he encouraged Gideon.
During that night the Lord said to Gideon, “Get up, go down against the camp, because I am going to give it into your hands. 10 If you are afraid to attack, go down to the camp with your servant Purah and listen to what they are saying. Afterward, you will be encouraged to attack the camp.” So he and Purah his servant went down to the outposts of the camp. The Midianites, the Amalekites and all the other eastern peoples had settled in the valley, thick as locusts. Their camels could no more be counted than the sand on the seashore. Gideon arrived just as a man was telling a friend his dream. “I had a dream,” he was saying. “A round loaf of barley bread came tumbling into the Midianite camp. It struck the tent with such force that the tent overturned and collapsed.” His friend responded, “This can be nothing other than the sword of Gideon son of Joash, the Israelite. God has given the Midianites and the whole camp into his hands.” When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he bowed down and worshiped. He returned to the camp of Israel and called out, “Get up! The Lord has given the Midianite camp into your hands.” Judges 7:9-15, ESV
We serve the Omnipresent, Omniscience, Omnipotent God and he is aways on our side fighting the battle way before we get to the first interaction! Hallelujah! It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8, ESV
Key points:
Fear is a liar
The odds will always look like they are against us
The Omnipresent God has handled the opposition.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Night Call
The darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you. Psalm 139:12
We had a family wedding to attend, so our daughter and her family, along with our son, came home for the occasion. Our grandson is about six months old. One early morning, I was up writing and listening to God when I heard him crying. I heard my daughter get up, warm his bottle, and then head back upstairs to give him what he needed. After that, I noticed that I didn’t hear him anymore.
Since our grandson can’t yet tell his parents what he needs, they use an app to help. The app on their phone reminds them of his feeding times and nap schedule. His diapers have a blue line that indicates when he’s wet and needs changing. They prepare bottles, diapers, and everything he needs ahead of time, so when he cries, they’re ready to respond.
The Holy Spirit spoke to me, saying, I am always with you. You can speak to Me anytime, about anything. It doesn’t matter the time of day—I am always available. He reminded me that He knows our thoughts, and even before we speak a word, He knows what we’re going to say. He said, Your daughter uses all these tools because she doesn’t yet understand the language her son is speaking. He speaks from the realm he just came from, and she’s trying to help him communicate in this one. But I am God, and there is no realm I don’t know, for I created them all.
He reminded me of how the blood of the lamb was spread over the doorposts of the Israelites in Egypt. God had already prepared them for what was coming. He provided what they would need to eat, instructed them to be packed and ready to go, and even equipped them with wealth for their journey. Even in our darkest hour, whether we’ve brought the situation on ourselves or not, the Holy Spirit is with us, ready to give us direction. Scripture says, Even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you (Psalm 139:12). When we call on the name of the Lord, no matter the hour, He will come near and give us what we need.
Key points:
There is not a time in your life that God is not available.
He will answer you in your darkest hour and give you what you need.
He has already prepared everything for you.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Lesson in the Present
I was sitting outside in our backyard, writing, when I noticed a tiny, tiny creature, maybe the size of a pinhead, scurrying along my computer. My first thought was, God, how can there be life in something so small? I would not have even noticed it if it hadn’t been moving so fast. This prompted me to start writing. I was thinking that God shows us evidence of His majestic power and presence every day, but often we miss what’s right in front of us.
It was only a few weeks earlier, I’d felt a deep desire during prayer to ask God to let me experience Him in a new and different way. In reality, God was saying, Jacqueline, I need you to speak this word out loud, because I have more of Myself that I want to reveal to you. God places desires in our hearts, and we must speak them out for those things to manifest in our lives. I was speaking what God had already placed in my heart.
At that moment, I noticed another small spider on one of the chairs next to me. It was moving around and seemed to be looking directly at me. Although this one wasn’t as tiny as the first, I probably wouldn’t have seen it if it hadn’t been moving. It felt as if it were looking right into my eyes! It would turn in the opposite direction, then pause and look back at me before finally going on its way.
As I reflected, the Holy Spirit spoke to me, saying, So why are you afraid of any situation, circumstance, or person in this world? Why would you doubt Me? I made you fearless! Who else in this world can create life like this? There is absolutely no one and nothing greater than Me! Fear nothing! I began to praise God, feeling overwhelmed by this revelation. He used the smallest creature I could see on earth to help me understand that He is inexhaustible!
Key points:
YHWH I AM that I AM
ELOHIM, the Creator
He is in the present, don’t miss Him.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
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My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
God Answers
And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” Matthew 21:22, ESV
My husband is one who is very cautious about going up to strangers to talk with them about the Lord. He loves to share about the Lord, but he does not want to impose himself on anyone. So, when he came home from an errand and said he felt like the Lord said that we were to go talk to this unhoused person who had camped out along the bike trail down the street from our home, I was very surprised!
My husband was so serious! He said that God told him to take a bottle of water and give it to the individual and talk to him about Christ. So we walked down the trail together and there was the man sitting on a bench with all of his items all over the place. My husband spoke to him and introduced himself to the individual. He spoke back and my husband offered him the water. As they began to talk I just kept praying for God to take control. As my husband spoke and told the gentleman about the Lord, he listened and said that he knew God. But the more we talked to him the more we realized that there were some other mental issues that he was dealing with and he probably did not even realize it.
My husband asked him if we could pray for him and he accepted our prayer. Our encounter reminded me of how Jesus sent the disciples out two by two. They had no idea who they were going to meet and how the people were going to respond. But they obeyed God and moved. Walking with God requires us to walk in faith and trust that God will meet us where he send us. I’m not sure if the gentleman will remember much of what we said to him, but I know God prompted us, he had purpose for us going and he answered our prayers.
We may never get to witness how God moves in that man’s life, but our job was to move when the Holy Spirit told us to move and give him what we were directed to do. We can always give thanks to God for what he did in that individual’s life because the word says, “God’s word will never return to us void, but it will accomplish that which I desire and will prosper where to it was sent.” Isaiah 55:11 We have assurance that even if we don’t see God’s hands working in someone’s life, we know he never stops working.
Key points:
When God says move, go where he tells you.
When we speak his word it will never return void.
We may never see God working, but he never stops.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
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My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Watering
The Watering
But there went up a mist from the earth, and watered the whole face of the ground. Genesis 2:6
Mist: a cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere at or near the earth's surface that limits visibility (to a lesser extent than fog; strictly, with visibility remaining above 1 km (1,100 yards): the peaks were shrouded in mist | [in singular] : a mist rose out of the river.
• [in singular] a condensed vapor settling in fine droplets on a surface: a breeze cooled the mist of perspiration that had dampened her temples.
Before God caused rain to water the earth he had a way of ensuring that the garden would receive it’s nourishment. The earth and all the vegetation could not function without water. The Bible says he watered with a mist. I love how the fog settles on the earth. The plants get a complete drenching through the mist. You can see the fog, and feel the dampness, but you can’t really see the water. The ground becomes damp and little speckles of moisture will hit your face, but you can’t really tell how that is happening.
It reminds me so much of the Word of God. As believers, we cannot function without it—it is our lifeline; without it, we die! When we read the Word and meditate on it, a gentle mist begins to form in our spirits, and if we sit with it long enough, that mist transforms into a river of living water flowing out from within us.
For example, God was speaking to me about the plants in my garden. He showed me how each of those plants started from a single seed, and as each plant grew, it matured and produced abundant fruit. In the same way, this happens within us as we sit meditating on the Word. The seed that God has planted within us, fully equipped, begins to grow, mature, and produce fruit.
While God was showing me this example I was being saturated God He gives us revelation and understanding as we allow ourselves to be soaked in him. At the time God caused the mist to water the whole face of the ground, the ground did not move but received all the nourishment. We have to do the same thing to become all that he has anointed us to be.
As God showed me this example, I was being saturated, through the misting of his words. He gives us revelation and understanding when we allow ourselves to be soaked in Him. Just as, in the beginning, God caused a mist to water the whole face of the ground, which simply received the nourishment, so we too must remain still in His presence to receive all He has for us.
I have no idea how a tiny seed can yield a reservoir of fruit, but under the right conditions and with proper watering, it happens. The same is true for us—God’s miraculous works happen!
Key points:
You have a revisor of fruit inside of you.
Manifestation comes with the word.
The Word of God is your complete and only source.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
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My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Helper
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. John 14:26
Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to the disciples so they would have all the help they needed to accomplish the work He had ordained for them. That same Holy Spirit lives within every believer today.
The Holy Spirit is our helper. Jesus sent Him to assist us.
He is our Comforter, providing solace in times of sorrow.
Our Advocate, pleading on our behalf.
Our Intercessor, intervening and interceding for us.
Our Strengthener, making us stronger when we are weak.
Our Standby, a reliable resource we can always depend on.
Our Advisor, offering counsel and guidance.
The Holy Spirit works in such remarkable ways. I had just gotten my nails done less than a week earlier, and my thumbnail cracked. I thought I could simply wrap a bandage around it and it would be fine, but then my other thumbnail cracked in the middle and started catching on my clothes. I realized I needed to make an appointment to fix these two nails, but I kept putting it off. Then my index fingernail started breaking too, and I thought, "What is going on with these nails? This has never happened to me before." So I sent a text to my nail technician to schedule an appointment and she had an opening the next day.
Normally, when I visit my nail technician, we talk about family, the Lord, and how God works in our lives. We had talked a little about her fiancé before, but not much. This time, however, I asked her how he was doing, and she began to open up about the struggles they were facing. She had told him that she no longer wanted to be in the relationship, but as soon as she said it, she felt God telling her it wasn’t the right decision. Still, she was so angry that she wanted to end it. She said that on the very same day she received my text asking to come in and fix my nails.
She said, “I knew God was sending me help.” God loves us so much that he allowed my nails to break so that I would schedule an appointment, and he could use me to encourage her with his words. There is no problem too difficult for God, and he is always there to give us the encouragement and direction we need! He loves us so much that he will change someone else's schedule just to reach us and show us his care!
Key points:
The fullness of God dwells within you.
God goes out of his way to encourage us.
Even when we make mistakes God is not mad at us.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
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My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Trusting God
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6, KJV
My husband asked me what I was doing on August 1st. Whenever he asks a question like that, I get the feeling there's something he wants me to do that I don’t want to do, so he's checking to see if I already have plans. I replied, "I don’t know, why?" He said, "A friend of mine wants us to come over for dinner." I asked, "What friend?" and he responded, "Jacqueline from Facebook." I was like, "What? No!" and that sparked a heated discussion. I eventually gave in and said okay because I truly had nothing on my calendar, but I was upset that he would even suggest something like that. I didn’t feel it was safe.
Then a quiet voice in my head asked, "Do you trust the God in your husband?" When I heard those words, a sense of peace came over me. But my mind quickly shifted back to how illogical it seemed to go to someone's home for dinner when I had never met them. I started getting angry again. A flood of emotions ran through me, and part of me felt this was an attack from the enemy, but I couldn’t let go because it didn’t make sense. When my husband tried to reassure me that Jacqueline was a nice person, I reacted aggressively. He tried to calm me down and, realizing this may not have been the best idea, promised never to do it again.
On the day of the dinner, I still felt a lot of resistance and pressure, so I asked God for help again. In His humorous way, He sent me one of my own devotionals, titled Trust God! I knew then that the spiritual warfare I was experiencing was from Satan, who didn’t want me to go. After praying, my spirit calmed, and I said, "God, I trust You.”
When we arrived at Jacqueline’s home, she was the sweetest woman, and her spirit radiated God’s presence. His light shined through her. We didn’t get to meet her husband, as he had to work late, but she explained that they were believers and just wanted to connect with other married couples who loved God. They had been married for four years, and she had been following my husband’s posts for over eleven years. She said she could tell through his posts that we had a heart for God. My husband had met her once, nine years earlier, at one of the wineries where his band was playing.
I believe the entire situation was a setup for my growth and to reveal where my faith in God stood. Every day, God is taking us to a new level of faith. Moving in faith requires letting go of control, no matter how irrational things may seem. God didn’t want me to trust in my husband or in my own common sense—He wanted me to trust Him! I realized that day that I was still clinging to control, but I also reached a new level of faith by letting go. I know there will be other tests in different circumstances, but I pray that when they come, I will follow Proverbs 3:5-6 with all my heart: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.
Key points:
Trust means releasing control to God.
Depending on common sense can hinder your faith.
God is truly watching over you.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Hidden Thoughts
Every morning I spend time listening to an encouraging word. I always asked the Holy Spirit who should I listen to for encouragement for the day. This one particular morning the name of a person came up in my spirit that I had not listened to in years and I was not really fond of him. I said to myself, “I don’t know why that name came up in my spirit.” Now I had just asked God, but because God had me listening to someone else for weeks, I thought for sure I was supposed to be listening to him and so that is what I did. But then the following day I asked God the same question and that same first person’s name rose up in my spirit. I was like, “God, is this who you want me to listen to?” And I could feel the presence of his peace in my spirit.
So I tuned in to listen to the individual and I found that there was so much judgment in my spirit. I was like, “I don’t know if I like the way they are explaining the message.” I could hardly hear the message for all the stuff that was coming out of my mind. I literally stopped the YouTube video and I began to pray for myself. I repented and asked God to help me. Literally after that prayer things changed. The message that God had me listen to was all about what we had been studying at our church. The teacher actually brought clarity to some of the questions that I had in my own heart!
What I believe God wanted me to see is that I had no idea that I was carrying around judgment for someone that I had never met. I had heard some negative things about this individual, but I did not know it had seeped into my spirit. I’m reminded of what Dr. Juanita Bynum said, “You cannot sit and listen to negativity and it not affect you.” I had no idea that the comments I heard someone else say about this individual had landed so deeply inside of me that judgment had filled my heart of that person.
God is the revealer of our soul. When Jesus taught the disciples the Lord’s prayer he added “And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us”. Everyday we need to seek God for forgiveness of our sins. It is hard to see sin creeping up in our hearts. Scripture says “…to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ…,” That means any thought, good or bad, because in truth we have no idea of the source of the thought and what it can do to our soul.
God is consistently transforming us into the image of him. Our thoughts can take on a character of its own and if we are not paying attention we will be like that wild branch that needs to be pruned. But praise God that he prunes us!
Key points:
Your thoughts reveal your heart.
Our thoughts are invisible, but extremely powerful.
Lay your thoughts on Jehovah and walk in his power.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
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My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss