The Colors of Creation
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received[a] it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24, ESV
I sat down to spend some time with the Lord, but I was hungry, so I fixed myself a salad. After I prayed over my salad, the Holy Spirit began to speak to me about it.
He said, “The colors in your salad are beautiful. They represent how I created the world.”
I had put a lot of different vegetables in my salad because I enjoy variety. Then He said, “Your salad would be very boring if it had only one kind of vegetable. It wouldn’t be something you’d look forward to eating. Imagine a salad with no dressing or any other added ingredients—it wouldn’t taste very good, and it wouldn’t be as healthy for your body.”
He continued, “Everyone in this world adds something special, and each person is needed.”
As I sat reflecting, He said, “All of these vegetables were waiting for you to come and gather them for your salad. In the same way, everything you need is already waiting for you to come and receive it.”
I thought for a moment and said, “I know how to get these vegetables—I can go to the store and buy them off the shelf. But how do I receive the miracles and the desires of my heart that I’ve asked You for?”
Things were quiet for a while, and then the word prayer came to my mind. The scripture says, “When you ask, you receive.” I said, “I know how to ask—but how do I acquire?” The next word that came to me was faith.
I thought, Oh!—and then the story of David came to my spirit.
David didn’t ask to be king; he was promised and anointed for the position. It seemed like it would never happen, but God showed me that David never stopped believing—he kept the faith. The Lord reminded me that without faith, it is impossible to receive what we’ve asked Him for.
Just as I paid money for the vegetables, faith is the currency needed to activate and receive what has been promised.
I smiled to myself, realizing I had only sat down to spend time with God—but He had already planned to teach me a lesson through something as simple as a salad. I will never look at a salad the same way again.
Key Takeaways
Everything in this world was created for a purpose, and we need it to stay healthy.
Faith is what activates our prayer requests and brings them to life.
The answers to our prayers don’t always come the way we expect—but they always come in the way we need.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Powerful Peace
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your mind in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7, NIV
Di you all get what the passage above says, that peace moves through all understanding and it has the power to protect your heart and your mind. Listen that is where our battle ground is with Satan. Peace protects our heart and mind from the attacks of the enemy.
Hebrews 10:35 I will never throw away my confidence, because then I lose my amazing reward. Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward.
The Test Reveals
“If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to rescue us from the furnace of blazing fire, and He will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up!” —Daniel 3:17–18
I had the opportunity to chat with a dear friend, and in the midst of our conversation, I asked her to pray for me. I was believing God for something He had placed in my spirit, yet I felt unsettled. I knew God had spoken, but everything around me seemed out of alignment with what He had said.
When she responded, I knew her words were from God. She asked, “Are you going to believe God and still walk in faith—even if He doesn’t do what you believe He told you?” She went on to speak about the three Hebrew boys and their faith. They weren’t as concerned about the outcome as they were about remaining faithful to God. They believed He would deliver them, but even if He didn’t, their trust in Him remained unshaken.
I thought about what she said for a moment and then answered, “Yes. I have surrendered everything to God—I just want His will in my life.”
Later in the week, God brought our conversation and the passage about the Hebrew boys back to me again. After reading the story once more, I began to reflect on my own faith. I prayed, “Lord, if my faith and the condition of my heart are not like that of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, please change me. I want my focus to be on faith in You, no matter the outcome. I choose to surrender to Your will.”
When God places something in our hearts or promises us something that doesn’t come to pass as we expect, our faith can be shaken if our eyes are fixed on the outcome instead of on Him. Sometimes, the “delay” may actually be a test of our faith, meant to reveal where we are in our walk with Him.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego declared boldly that God could deliver them, yet they also declared with equal boldness that—even if He did not—they would still worship the one true God.
We can make many bold declarations about our faith, but we only truly discover where we stand when our faith is tested. In the moment I spoke with my friend, I didn’t realize I was being tested. But as I sought God more deeply, He revealed things about my heart and faith. Today, I am even more confident than before: what God has said, He will do. And if He chooses not to, I will still believe in the one true God. Amen!
Key Takeaways
You will be tested.
Jesus has already prepared you for whatever test He allows.
Tests always reveal where you truly are in your walk with Him.
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
Do Not Limit God
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
When our son was attending the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, we often visited him for various events and occasions. Because of the high cost of tuition and other related expenses, we were living on a tight budget. Whenever we looked for accommodations, the prices were so high that we typically ended up staying in hotels that weren’t quite to our liking but were all we could afford.
On one particular trip, I was especially frustrated. Every hotel I found was either too expensive or not very nice. Sitting at my computer, I finally cried out to God in frustration:
"God, I want to stay somewhere nice. You said I could ask You, and You would provide. I believe You put this desire in my heart, and I want to stay somewhere nice. Can You please show me what to do?"
In that moment, I sensed the Holy Spirit whisper to me: “Type in ‘luxury hotels in the Los Angeles area.’” So I obeyed. The first hotel that appeared in the search results was The Langham Hotel. I had never even heard of it before.
Then I sensed Him say, “Call them. Ask for the room rates and see if they offer any discounts.”
I did exactly that—and to my surprise, the discounted rate we qualified for was even lower than what we would have paid at the less desirable hotels!
After booking our stay, I asked God, “Lord, do You mean we could have been staying here all this time?”
His gentle response pierced my heart: “You never asked Me. You’ve been leaning on your own understanding, relying on what you know instead of seeking My wisdom.”
That moment changed me. I realized I had only been receiving what my own knowledge and efforts could produce. God had been waiting for me to invite Him into the process.
I believe God sometimes allows us to come to the end of ourselves so that we will finally turn to Him. It had never occurred to me to ask God for something that felt beyond our budget. I assumed that if standard hotels were already expensive, a luxury hotel was simply out of the question. But Proverbs 3 reminds us: “In all your ways acknowledge Him.”
When I studied the word acknowledge, I learned it means “to know.” And to know means “to perceive or understand as fact or truth; to apprehend clearly and with certainty; to have fixed in the mind.” In other words, God calls us to know Him so deeply that we consult Him about everything—not just the things we think are out of our reach.
Key Takeaways
We limit God’s blessings when we fail to seek His guidance first.
We limit God’s blessings when we rely solely on our own reasoning.
We limit God’s blessings when we do not cultivate an intimate relationship with Him.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Happy Independence Day
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. —John 8:36, ESV
The greatest gift of freedom has nothing to do with what the world offers, but everything to do with the gift from Jesus Christ—eternal life!
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Tithing—Why Is It So Hard?
“Bring the full tenth into the storehouse so that there may be food in my house. Test me in this way,” says the Lord of Armies. “See if I will not open the floodgates of heaven and pour out a blessing for you without measure.”
—Malachi 3:10, ESV
A dear friend recently asked me this question. She had been trying to tithe, but the way God was leading her to give didn’t seem to make sense—it didn’t feel like it was aligning with His will.
But when we set our hearts to tithe and give to the Lord, He fills us with joy and gladness. That’s when Satan comes immediately to steal that joy and disrupt the blessings headed our way. When God tells you to give—whether to a ministry or a person—don’t question Him. Don’t try to reason or figure it all out. We don’t know His plans, but He is always working behind the scenes. All He asks is that we trust Him.
Confusion comes when we try to make sense of things instead of simply obeying. God is calling us to surrender and walk in obedience, even when it doesn’t make sense.
Hard (definition): solid, firm, and rigid; not easily broken, bent, or pierced.
Tithing isn’t hard. What may be hard is your heart toward tithing. If that’s the case, ask God to soften your heart and make it pliable to His will.
I remember a time when I went to my esthetician for a service. While I was there, I clearly heard the Holy Spirit say, “Give her a large tip,” and He even told me the exact amount. My flesh responded, You’re not hearing that right, and I gave her what I had originally planned.
But before I could get into my car, the Holy Spirit prompted me again—stronger this time—“Give her what I told you.” I didn’t need to hear it a third time. I pulled out my phone and sent her the full amount via Venmo.
She immediately messaged me and asked, “Did you mean to do this?”
“Yes,” I replied, “God told me to give that to you.”
She later shared that it had been a very difficult month financially and that my gift was a true blessing from God.
I had almost missed an opportunity to be used by God—because of the posture of my heart. The truth is, none of this money belongs to us. It’s not ours! We’ve been entrusted to be stewards of His resources.
Satan has spread the lie that what we have belongs to us. That’s why we often feel entitled to do what we want with it, instead of what God says. But Jesus gave us a clear parable:
“The Lord said, ‘Who then is the faithful and sensible manager his master will put in charge of his household servants to give them their allotted food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom the master finds doing his job when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.’”
—Luke 12:42–44, ESV
Notice the scripture says the master puts the servant in charge of his possessions—not that the servant owns anything. That’s why when we leave this earth, everything stays behind. None of it belongs to us. We’re caretakers of what belongs to Him.
So when God gives us instructions, we must pray, cast down the lies of the enemy, and move forward with joy in obedience—knowing we are simply managing what is already His.
Key Takeaways:
You own nothing but your will.
Be an excellent caretaker so you can release whatever He asks of you.
The power to surrender comes through the Holy Spirit.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Stand Assured
“Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident." — Psalm 27:3
In the passage above, King David makes a powerful declaration: nothing has power over him. He acknowledges that fear may try to approach, but it will not take hold of his heart. Fear would not rule him. When we begin to understand who God is in our lives, we too can make bold declarations like David. He knew that nothing could overturn what God had already ordained for his life. Therefore, he stood boldly in faith, knowing the Lord was the strength of his life.
Every believer can stand confidently in faith, knowing that the same God who delivered David and fought for him is the same God we serve today. Scripture reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). We are called to walk by faith and not by sight.
Today, it seems impossible to scroll through social media or watch the news without encountering stories of injustice, oppression, and hardship. It often appears that the most vulnerable—the oppressed—are continually attacked. Yet God reminds us that those are the very people He defends. When God fights your battles, no one and nothing can defeat Him.
I am reminded of a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a respected teacher of the law. When the apostles were being persecuted for preaching in the name of Jesus, Gamaliel warned the assembly, “Men of Israel, be careful what you are about to do to these men. If their activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God!” (Acts 5:35–39 paraphrased).
Scripture tells us: “The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed” (Psalm 103:6), and “The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble” (Psalm 9:9). When we know God’s Word, we have no reason to fear. God has intentionally positioned the oppressed in such a way that only He can defend them—so that He may show Himself strong on their behalf. Hallelujah!
So, when you read distressing news or feel hopelessness creeping into your spirit, declare this aloud:
“Lord, I thank You! You are positioning me for a blessing! You are fighting my battles!”
Key Takeaways:
The Lord has positioned you for victory.
Stand assured that what God has written about you cannot be overturned.
Declare that fear has no hold on you!
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Relationship
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. — Revelation 3:20 (KJV)
I remember being a young child, praying to God and asking Him if I could get to know Him better. I remember saying, "I don't want to wait until I get to heaven to know You." What I didn’t realize at the time was that I was asking God for a relationship with Him.
Back then, when I prayed, it felt like I was speaking into the air. I wasn’t really sure who God was. I knew He was my Savior, but I didn’t truly know Him.
As I look back over my life now, I see how God faithfully answered that prayer. I have an intimate relationship with Him. I know who He is. I know His character. I know He keeps His word and that He is faithful. I hear Him speak to me, and I know I am deeply loved by Him.
While listening to a podcast recently, the speaker said something that struck me: “In God, you can start your day with a confident assurance that no matter what you face, you have the victory because you know God—and He has already won the battle ahead of you.”
Those words stirred my spirit. I thought, I have a relationship with God, but I don’t always walk in that kind of faith.
I began to reflect on the faith I have in my husband. I never worry about his role in our marriage or whether he’ll fulfill his responsibilities. I don’t wake up wondering if he’ll pay the bills or take care of the house. I don’t question whether he’ll go to work and provide for our family. I know the kind of man I married, and I trust his character. I’m confident he will take care of all those things.
Then, I started meditating on my faith in God. I picked up the keyboard and began to write: “God, You are faithful. You have never let me down. I want to live every day with that confident peace the speaker talked about. I want to walk in the power of that faith.”
Immediately, God began to teach me about faith. He reminded me: You see your husband every day. You spend time with him, talk with him, and enjoy his company. Then He said, If you do the same with Me—stay in My Word—you will have the same confidence and walk in the same assurance with Me as you do with your husband.
In that moment, Joshua 1:8 came to mind:
"This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success."
God was prompting my spirit to come closer and step into a new level of faith.
Since then, I’ve started listening to a daily podcast that reads the Bible in chronological order, and I love it. God is revealing more and more of Himself to me. When we consistently read His Word, it’s like God opens another door of His presence, saying, “Come in and let Me show you more of who I am.”
Every time we open the Word of God, we are building a deeper relationship with Him. The deeper the relationship, the more peace we have, the greater our confidence, and the stronger our unstoppable faith becomes.
Relationships are built through time spent together.
Yeshua says, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." — Revelation 3:20 (KJV)
Key Takeaways:
The level of your relationship with God determines your level of faith.
The Word brings us into the relationship we desire to have with Him.
Yeshua desires a deeper relationship with you.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Doubting
"But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do." —James 1:6-8, NIV
In the passage above, James is specifically talking about asking for wisdom, but the principle applies to anything we ask God for. When we bring our requests before Him, we must ask without doubting. Sometimes we may believe we are asking in faith, but our actions often speak louder than our words.
Recently, I had been pouring my heart out to God about all the things happening in my life—some situations I had prayed about for a long time, yet I saw no visible change. One day, as I sat quietly contemplating what I should do next, I heard the Holy Spirit whisper, "Are you trusting Me? Why are you still carrying all these burdens? If you have truly given the situation to Me, then leave it with Me. You've tried every way you know to fix it, and nothing has changed. Stop trying to manipulate the outcome."
In that moment, He impressed upon my heart that nothing would change until I fully let go. Suddenly, I could see myself clearly. Even though I had prayed, I realized I was still clinging to control, trying to make things happen on my terms. I thought I was walking in faith, but in reality, I was moving in doubt.
I had convinced myself that, since these were practical issues around the house, I should be able to handle them. But in truth, my actions revealed that I was telling God, "I want You to fix this—but only my way." God knows our hearts, and if I had paid attention to mine, I would have recognized that I was walking in doubt and unbelief all along.
Scripture says, "The one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do." (James 1:7-8, NIV)
As the Father gently revealed this to me, I repented and asked for His forgiveness. Instantly, I felt a deep sense of peace wash over me. The situation hasn’t changed yet, but I know in my heart that it is already done and the transformation will appear in God’s perfect timing. Now, when the enemy tries to attack me with thoughts of doubt—even when the circumstances seem unchanged—I no longer agree with him. I stand firm on Isaiah 65:24: "Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear."
This journey has drawn me into a deeper closeness with God—a place of Shalom peace and unspeakable joy. I've learned that spiritual waiting is active faith: trusting that God’s timing is perfect and that He is always working behind the scenes.
Father, thank You for every journey You take us on to grow our faith and draw us closer to You. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Key Takeaways:
Praying and then trying to manipulate the outcome is not faith.
God does not honor prayers that lack faith.
A double-minded person does not please God.
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
Strength In Prayer
...And He said to them, "Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation." While He was still speaking, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. — Luke 22:46-47, ESV
Jesus asked the disciples why they were sleeping. Of course, the answer was simple: they were tired. It had been a long and emotionally taxing day. The disciples had prepared the Last Supper, and Jesus had spoken some deeply weighty words they could barely comprehend. Peter had just been told he would deny Christ three times that very night. They were instructed to take a moneybag, a knapsack, and even a sword when they went out from now on. And perhaps the most heartbreaking news of all—Jesus told them they would scatter, each to their own home, and leave Him alone. It was a lot to absorb, and they were likely both emotionally and physically exhausted.
Yet Jesus gently rebuked them for seeking physical rest when what they needed most was spiritual strength. When we are worn down—mentally, emotionally, or physically—it's easy to offer a quick, half-hearted prayer before retreating to sleep. But this moment in Scripture teaches us something deeper: the times when we feel most drained are often the very times we must press in and seek His presence. Satan loves to attack when we are at our weakest, and the only way to stand strong is by spending intentional time with God.
In an instant, everything changed for the disciples. For three years, they had walked closely with Jesus. Their every need had been met. Though Yeshua had told them He was leaving, they couldn’t have imagined how quickly and drastically life would shift. But Jesus knew. He knew the trials they were about to face, and He knew the only way they would endure was through the strength and guidance that comes from the Father.
Prayer is a divine exchange—a conversation with the Most High God, the One who always was and always will be. In prayer, we find direction, strength, and peace for whatever we are facing. Scripture reminds us, "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, ESV).
All the disciples had to walk through their appointed journey to reach the other side. They were destined and chosen for those heavy, defining moments. In the middle of their trials, I doubt they felt much like giving thanks, but as Scripture reveals, great reward followed their obedience and perseverance.
We may not always see the other side of our tribulations, but we can be assured that goodness awaits us. We are called to trust God, no matter the circumstances.
Key Takeaways:
We must pray at all times, for this is the will of God.
When we are exhausted and tired, we need spiritual strength even more than physical rest.
God meets us right where we are.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
No Answer Yet
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." — Jeremiah 29:11
Many times, I have prayed and not received the answer or the thing I asked God for. I often wondered why God had not answered my prayer. As I reflected on my life, I realized that I am grateful He didn’t answer those prayers in the way I had hoped. As I grew older, I saw that His plan was far better than what I wanted at the time. As I continue to focus on the truth that God’s plan surpasses my own, I can rest in peace and joy that he is working for my best.
I have also discovered that, many times, my prayers were rooted in my will rather than God’s will. Over the years, God has taught me that praying His will means praying His Word. As long as my prayers align with His Word, they will be answered in His perfect timing. Often, we expect God’s timing to match our own, but that is simply not how it works. The Bible tells us that God’s thoughts are far beyond our own, and even if He explained His plan to us, we could never fully comprehend it.
As I wrote this devotional, God reminded me of His infinite wisdom. I reflected on how the earth sits on its axis, spinning at 1,000 miles per hour while traveling around the sun at 67,000 miles per hour—yet we don’t even feel it. Not only that, the moon orbits the earth in the opposite direction at a speed of 2,888 miles per hour, completing its cycle in 27 days. To make things even more astounding, the earth’s gravity is so strong that, as the moon orbits, we can only see one side of it! Meanwhile, the earth completes its journey around the sun every 365 days. When I think about this, I am in complete awe. And this is only a small glimpse of the kind of God we serve!
We were not created to understand everything the all-knowing God knows. Instead, He created us to trust Him and to have fellowship with Him. Even Jesus, who is God the Son, does not know the exact time that God the Father will return to earth. But He knows that He will return. It is comforting to know that God hears our prayers, and even if we do not receive what we expected on this side of eternity, the best is yet to come. We must trust and believe that He knows what is best for us.
Remember, Jesus prayed in the garden for God to take the bitter cup from Him, but God did not remove the assignment—because His will was for all of us to be saved. In the same way, God knows what is best for us, even when it is difficult for us to receive.
Key Takeaways
God’s ways are far better than we can imagine.
God has a plan designed especially for you, and it is good.
Faith is believing in God’s plan for our lives, even when it does not align with our own desires.
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
Victorious
"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:57, ESV
I was listening to a podcast, and as they closed out, one of the presenters prayed. In the midst of the prayer, she said something like, "We are victorious." Instantly, the word "victorious" stood out to me. In my heart, while she was praying, I said, "God, that is so true—we are victorious!" When we pray according to His will, He has already answered, and we have victory. We don’t have to worry about what we see; we just believe His Word and trust that it is done.
A deep peace came over my heart. There were so many things I had prayed about that had not yet manifested. I tried my best to align my actions so those things would come to pass. But as I heard that prayer, I was reminded that I did not need to strive—God was doing the work through me. I just needed to walk hand in hand with Him. If I could have handled the situation on my own, there would have been no need for me to pray.
We can sit in peace and embrace victory, or we can walk in worry and frustration, asking, "When, God?" and "Why, God?" But God has already assured us that He has heard and answered our prayers. We must continue walking with Him as He brings the manifestation in His perfect timing.
I remember when I was diagnosed with high blood pressure and told I would need medication. I immediately went to God in prayer. I did not want to take that medication, so I asked God to heal me. I believe I was healed in that moment. Although I still take the medication because of lingering symptoms, I trust that God has healed me!
We must make up our minds to believe God. Even if our circumstances have not yet changed, we must stand firm in the belief that He has heard and answered our prayers. We have victory!
I am reminded of Elizabeth and Zechariah. They prayed for a child, and God answered their prayer with a "yes." However, the manifestation did not come until much later in their lives. Yet, He heard and answered them. Similarly, my aunt suffers from sciatic pain in her legs. Every day, she is reminded of the pain, but I stand in the gap for her because I know she is healed. We prayed for her healing, and God said, "By His stripes, we are healed." Scripture assures us that God is not a man that He should lie, nor the son of man that He should change His mind. Regardless of what we see or feel, He has answered our prayers.
If we focus on what we see or feel, we will never walk in faith. Scripture says, "But let him ask in faith without doubting. For the doubter is like the surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord, being double-minded and unstable in all his ways" (James 1:6-8, CSB). God responds to faith, not doubt. We must believe that Jesus is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. We have victory in Christ Jesus!
Key Takeaways:
We have victory even when we cannot yet see it.
Prayer without faith is ineffective.
You already have all the faith you need for your prayers to be answered.
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
Expectation
Expect: To anticipate or look forward to the coming or occurrence of something.
One day, I was in my office working, and since it was a bit cold, I turned on the portable heater in the corner of the room. I don’t usually turn up the central heating throughout our home because it makes the house too warm for my husband.
After a few minutes, I realized my office was still cold—the heater wasn’t working. I got up, walked over to inspect the issue, and noticed that it wasn’t plugged into the power source. I plugged it in, and immediately, the heater began to work.
As soon as I sat back down, the Holy Spirit spoke to me: “What are you expecting?”
I pondered that question, and then I heard Him ask again, “What are you expecting?”
It was early Sunday morning, and I would be heading to church soon. I thought about what I was expecting to happen at the service. Then, He continued:
“When you turned on the heater, you expected heat. But when you didn’t receive what you expected, you went to inspect the problem. Once you identified the issue, you resolved it—and then you received what you had been expecting.
Many believers live life without any expectation. And even those who do expect something from Me often fail to seek Me when they don’t receive what they’re hoping for.”
At that moment, I was reminded of Jairus, one of the synagogue leaders who came to Jesus, asking Him to heal his daughter. The Bible tells us that a large crowd surrounded Jesus—many were watching what He was doing, but few expected anything for themselves.
Yet, in that same crowd, a woman reached out and touched the hem of Jesus’ robe. Unlike the others, she had an expectation. She had already declared in her heart, If I can just touch His robe, I will be healed. And that’s exactly what happened—she received what she had expected.
Jairus, too, expected Jesus to heal his daughter. Even when people came and told him that she had already died and that he should stop bothering Jesus, he held onto his expectation. Jesus reassured him, “Do not be afraid; just believe.” When they arrived at Jairus’ home, Jesus removed all the unbelievers and healed his daughter.
This reminds us that doubt and unbelief will try to creep in while we are expecting God’s deliverance. But we must continue to believe! It is our faith—combined with expectation—that allows us to receive all that our Father has ordained for us.
Key Takeaways
Without expectation, you will only receive what you expect—nothing more.
Seek the Father when what you expected has not manifested.
Doubt and fear will try to hinder your faith, but remember: God has listened; He has attended to the voice of our prayers (Psalm 66:19).
Affirmations
Matthew 10:20, Luke 24:32, Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV on YouTube.
My published books are now available on Amazon – Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks.
Faith over Fear
When the servant of the man of God arose early the next morning and went outside, he saw troops, horses, and chariots surrounding them. “Oh, sir, what will we do now?” the young man cried to Elisha.
“Do not be afraid,” Elisha assured him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!” The Lord opened the young man’s eyes, and when he looked up, he saw the hillside around Elisha filled with horses and chariots of fire. 2 Kings 6:15-20
When we are on God’s side, things are never as they seem. In the scripture above, an army surrounded the prophet Elisha's home. Elisha was not afraid because he could see into the spiritual realm, but his servant, unable to perceive this reality, feared for his life.
Often, the situations we face appear impossible. Even in today's world, laws and regulations can create fear and uncertainty. It can feel like an army is waiting outside to attack. However, fear is often based on deception. As Joyce Meyer aptly puts it, fear is "False Evidence Appearing Real." Elisha’s servant feared for his life, but that fear was based on what he could see with his natural eyes. He was unaware of the heavenly army protecting them. No matter what the enemy devises to instill fear, he has no authority over God!
Elisha prayed for God to open his servant’s eyes so he could see the victory already secured. Likewise, when we worship God, He opens our eyes to His victory. We fight our battles through prayer and worship! A song by Amy Grant captures this truth beautifully: "My worship opens up the heavens, crushing every stronghold when I speak Your name. Your presence is my weapon. Your presence is all I need."
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control! If fear grips your heart, it means you have allowed Satan access. Yet, Scripture reassures us:
"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10
There have been moments in my life when fear overwhelmed me, but every time, God worked out the situation. My fear only stole my peace, power, rest, and self-control. I had forgotten to put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. As children of God, we must remember that He is never surprised by our circumstances. He always has an answer before the problem even arises.
Key Points:
Rest in peace, for the battle is already won.
What you see in front of you is not always the full picture.
Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriesTV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon
Image
"So God created man in his own image; in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them."
—Genesis 1:27, ESV
I was sitting in the parking lot of a restaurant, writing, when I saw two women walk past. I had seen all kinds of people walking by, but these women caught my attention. They had radiant hair, impeccably styled bodies, perfectly manicured nails, and outfits that exuded sophistication, presenting what many would consider the epitome of success. Immediately, I heard the Holy Spirit say, "Image." He continued, "They project an image of what the world tries to tell you is success."
The scripture, "You are made in the image of God," rushed into my mind. I heard Him say, "Tell the people to stop looking at the world and what it says is success and beauty. The world’s narrative is from Satan! He is the ruler of this world, and if you seek to follow the world’s standards, you are seeking Satan. He is the father of all lies."
God explained that there is nothing inherently wrong with wealth, or material things, but these cannot be our image of success. The world needs to see the image of God reflected in us. We are called not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
Key Points:
The world’s narrative of success is a lie from Satan.
Seek the image of God.
Satan is the ruler of this world.
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
Predetermined
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, NIV
Predetermined: Established or decided in advance.
I love how our God can drop a word into your soul and light you up! My husband and I were taking a walk after I had just finished praying, and the Holy Spirit dropped the word "predetermined" into my spirit. I spoke the word aloud to my husband and asked, “Did you hear that? God has predetermined our time to be here on earth.” I always knew this was true, but He lit my heart in a new and profound way.
He then said, “You all only have a certain amount of time to be here. I decided when you would come, and I have decided when you will depart. I have given you an assignment with a manual (the Bible) and the Holy Spirit to help you navigate this earth. Too many of my people are focused on what they can obtain and how they will enjoy this life instead of the purpose I have sent them here to accomplish.”
As these words came into my mind, I was blown away. I could see how easily we get distracted with all kinds of things because of the messages from the world. Scripture says that Jesus came so that we may have and enjoy life and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows] (John 10:10). But that is not our purpose. Those blessings come automatically when we are walking out our assignment.
Our Assignment:
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:37-39
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
We can be deceived into thinking that we have plenty of time on this earth because we eat healthy and take care of ourselves—as we should. But that is far from the truth. Scripture tells us that God sent the prophet Isaiah to tell Hezekiah that his time was up. However, when Hezekiah prayed, God gave him fifteen more years:
"Thus says the Lord: ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die; you shall not recover.’ Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, saying, ‘Now, O Lord, please remember how I have walked before you in faithfulness and with a whole heart, and have done what is good in your sight.’ And Hezekiah wept bitterly. Before Isaiah had gone out of the middle court, the word of the Lord came to him: ‘Turn back, and say to Hezekiah the leader of my people, Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you. On the third day you shall go up to the house of the Lord, and I will add fifteen years to your life.’" —2 Kings 20:1-5 (ESV)
Although God has decided when we would enter and leave this earth, He has given us free will to choose what we will do while we are here. We were sent with our spirit and soul placed in a body to do the will of God. When we leave this earth, this body and everything we have obtained will remain here because we will not need them where we are going. It is crucial to understand that what we do while on this earth will determine how we live in the next season of our existence.
Key Points:
Your time on earth is limited; every new day brings you closer to your departure.
How you choose to live on this earth will determine how you live after you depart.
You have been given free will; choose life and obey Christ.
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
Rest in Faith
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. Galatians 3:23-24, ESV
I was listening to a speaker who was teaching on Resting in the Realm of the Finished Work. Most of his message focused on how Jesus completed the work of salvation and what it means for believers to rest in that finished work. The message was powerful, but when he began to talk about faith, I was completely blessed.
I knew God had ordained for me to hear that message because, at that season in my life, He was teaching me to trust Him with all my heart. The speaker quoted the passage above that resonated deeply with me. After reading it, he said, “Jesus is faith.” He explained that the faith we have is actually Jesus’ faith. He directed us to Romans 12:3, where it says that God has given each person “the measure of faith.” He also referenced Ephesians 4:5: “One Lord, one faith, one baptism.”
The speaker emphasized that it’s not Jesus’ faith plus my faith—Jesus’ faith is my faith. I had never heard faith explained that way before, and it brought so much clarity to how I can walk by faith and not by sight.
In the past, I had always felt like I needed to strive in my own faith. But now that I understand that my faith is rooted in Jesus’ faith, rest has filled my soul! Another scripture he shared was Hebrews 12:2: “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” This passage reminds us that Jesus is the beginning and the end of our faith. When we truly grasp this truth, complete rest becomes possible.
Even if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can move mountains. That mustard seed of faith is the faith of Jesus. Now I can say, “Jesus, thank You for Your faith—I believe it is happening!”
Key Points:
Our faith is Jesus.
We do not have to work our faith.
We can rest in faith.
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
Pruning is Necessary
I was up early, spending my quiet time with God, when I felt Him say, Go work in your garden. I was a bit surprised, but then I remembered why I’d started the garden in the first place—it was to create a space where I could hear Him speak to me.
When I walked outside, I saw quite a bit of work that needed to be done. The first thing that caught my eye was the blackberry bush. It was in a large pot, but its branches were sprawling everywhere, as if they had decided overnight to go wild. As I began tying them back, the Holy Spirit guided me. I hesitated, not wanting to break any of the branches, but I felt Him urge me, Pull them a little tighter and wrap them with your tie.
While I worked, He spoke to my heart, saying, You know, I do this with all believers. At times, they feel as if they’re going to break, but I never give them more than they can bear. I know what will bring out the best fruit in them, so I prop them up to prepare them for an abundant harvest.
Next, I moved over to my tangerine tree, which is also in a pot. I hesitated because I knew pruning would be necessary. There was a particular branch that kept the tree from growing straight, but it was heavy with fruit, and I was reluctant to cut it back. I’d known since last year that it needed to be pruned, but I’d waited, hoping to harvest all the fruit before cutting it. When I finally removed the fruit, I’d simply forgotten to prune it.
This time, I heard the Holy Spirit say clearly, Cut it. I moved over, cut the heavy branch, and placed it in the garbage bin. I didn’t try to console myself—I simply thanked it for its service and moved on. Once that branch was gone, the tree looked renewed, almost as if it were saying, Thank you! I propped up the remaining branches, and the whole tree seemed vibrant and joyful.
For years, I’d avoided cutting that branch because it produced so much fruit. But in truth, I was holding the tree back from reaching its full potential. As I worked, I realized that God was speaking to me through this experience. There is a season for everything, and even when something seems fruitful, if God says to let it go, we must listen.
I thought back to my time as the lead facilitator of our Omnigroup. I absolutely loved that role! We had about fourteen women in the group, and every gathering was such a delight. We laughed, prayed, studied, and celebrated together, forming a close-knit family. It was an incredibly inspiring season, but I remember one morning during prayer when I felt the Holy Spirit say, Your time is up.
My heart was saddened; I didn’t want to let go. So I kept leading the group for another six months, but eventually, the Holy Spirit pressed me to step down and leave the group entirely. It was hard, but I did as He said. Even though the group was thriving, God was pruning my tree. Nothing was wrong—it was simply that my season had come to an end, and God was calling me forward.
When God tells us to let go, we must trust Him, because He sees the bigger plan for our lives. When we hold on out of reluctance or fear, we risk missing the blessings He has prepared for us.
Key points:
Pruning has purpose
Do not hold onto something because it is prosperous when God has said your season is up.
Release to his control even when it hurts.
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
Fearless Faith
"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you”. Deuteronomy 31:8, ESV
My hubby and I were laying in bed. When I woke up he said, “I’ve been awake for a while and it is still very early. I can’t get back to sleep.” I asked him if he had talked to God to see why he had him up. He said, “No.” So I said, “Okay, let me pray and we will ask him.” In my prayer, God literally took over which is what I love and before I knew it my husband was asleep. When I ended the prayer it was with the words, I am fearless! I thought, “Hum…. this is not the first time you have spoken that to me. You have been telling me that I am fearless in faith! That I am fearless!” I got up and headed down to my office to write.
I was ready to write about fearless, but I asked God, “Who should I listen to, or what should I do to feed my soul this morning?” Everyday I seek the word from God because when he taught the disciples to pray he told them to pray and ask for their daily bread; which is of course the word of God. So at that moment I asked the questions my phone pinged and it was from my niece. But it was just a link to a YouTube video with the topic Fearless Faith Moved Me Into My New Home! I knew that this was not a coincidence, but God’s direction.
I sat and listened to this young lady give her testimony about how God had moved her from an apartment to a brand new home with little to no money. When the time comes for God to move us in whatever he has for us, he will send encouragement along the way. The path to the young ladies new home came with struggles and tests that built her faith. She almost gave up because the down payment was so high and was going to drain her bank account. But God had given her a friend who encouraged her and prayed her through the ordeal.
One of the amazing parts about her testimony was that the thing that almost caused her to quit was the thing God had already handled. But she would not find that out until she walked through the whole process. By the time she was to put down the deposit and first month’s rent, God had worked out a plan so she only paid something like four hundred dollars.
When we are ready to step into all that God has for us, he prepares the soil and then the pressure comes. The only way to get to that new level of faith is through challenges. If we want to build muscle we have to lift the weight to get that muscle. It is the same with our faith. To achieve physical or spiritual strength we will go through areas of struggle. But in the midst of struggle God says,"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you”. Deuteronomy 31:8
Key points:
The struggle is apart of acquiring the fearless faith
Nothing comes with out the lifting of weight
We are never alone as we grow in faith because God never stops working.
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
Prepared for Movement
Then he had another dream, and he told it to his brothers. “Listen,” he said, “I had another dream, and this time the sun and moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.” When he told his father as well as his brothers, his father rebuked him and said, “What is this dream you had? Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow down to the ground before you?” 11 His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the matter in mind.
Genesis 37:9-11, NIV
I love reading out of the Old Testament because it gives such guidance on how God moves in our lives today. When we read how God moved in the lives of those who came before us, it gives us some insight of what he is doing in our lives. Scripture says that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forevermore. John 10:10. We learn about his character and the way he moves in how he guides his people.
In the passage above Joseph was living at home with his family. He was one of the younger siblings in the family that his father loved dearly. The Lord had given Joseph a dream and the dream was so clear that his father and brothers could interrupt the meaning behind it. God was giving them all insight of what was to come, but the assignment was for Joseph. Joseph was being prepared for a movement. Many times God gives us a word, a vision, or a dream which puts the desires in our heart to walk in what he has called us to. God was not only telling Joseph what was going to happen in the future, but he was giving him the confidence he would need in the future to get through to the destination. God already knew what was upheld for Joseph and his father, so he sent them something to hold on to when things were difficult. If you read further in the passage you will find that for Joseph’s dreams came true but not without a lot of obstacles.
God does the same for us today! He will send someone to speak in our lives, or give us a vision with clarity. God is always giving us a message of encouragement as we move into what he has put into our spirits. I remember this vision God gave me. I can still see it so clearly. It has not come to pass as of yet, but he has sent several individuals at different times in my life who have spoken to me about the dream he showed me so many years ago. They knew nothing about the dream, but their words came at a time when I needed them the most.
God knows exactly what we need to keep us headed in the right direction. He will send a preacher to speak a message that sounds like it is just for you and sometimes it is. I remember a friend shared with me that she was getting ready to resign from her job and she was seeking God for direction. One Sunday she went to this church that she had never been to before. When the minister got up to teach the word he said, “God is telling me to say that someone is about to resign from their job and God is saying it is not time yet, do not do it.” She knew the message was for her. God knows his plan for you and it is perfect! Just stay the course!
Key points:
Your journey to the destination is going to have some trails.
God gives us the destination so we know where we are headed and we can stay encouraged along the way.
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