Words from the Lord: "You will find your rightful place!"

The Lord says: 

"This is the time of My great outpouring in many places like you've not seen before, in spite of the woes that you see on earth. The knowledge of My glory shall fill the earth as the waters cover the sea. Prepare yourself for the next level of My anointing, My wisdom, and My glory in your life! Ask of Me and you will receive. For those who have not found it, you will begin to find your rightful place in My kingdom!"

Habakkuk 2:14 (NKJV) says, 'For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.' 

The word 'knowledge' here in Hebrew is 'yada', and it can mean 'to know by seeing', 'to know by recognizing', 'to know by comprehending', or 'to know by discovering'.

Do not be disillusioned by whatever you see the enemy or the power of darkness does on earth right now, and do not be anxious. You know why? Because the Lord's glory that's coming is greater! The Lord your God will triumph in the end! And His glory knows no bounds! His glory is infinite, unlimited, and unstoppable! No power of darkness can stop Him!

You may ask, "What is God's glory?" This can be defined as 'God's greatness, God's magnificence, God's presence, and God's power that you can see, you can sense, and you can experience'. 

This glory can be upon your life, your family, or over your locality, your city, or even a nation or nations!

The key in this current time and season is to continue to look to Him, to embrace Him, and to cling to Him! 

You will see yourself moving into the next level, a new level of His glory, His power, and His wisdom in your life!

The Spirit of wisdom and revelation is flowing to you, and His glory is falling upon you right now! Receive by faith. 

You will begin to see many things in different light. There will be new perspective. There will be new understanding of things and what God is currently doing in your life.

Blessed are you!

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Receive discernment for this time and season

The Lord says: 

"My people need to discern! My people need to discern what I am doing in their lives right now, and in this time and season. This is the time to ask for discernment and understanding of the times. Ask, and you shall receive. As you receive from Me, you will know how to avoid the pitfalls and dangers around you. As you receive from Me, you will know how to prepare and walk in the new works that I am doing in your life. Stay in tune with Me. Stay aligned with Me. Commune with Me." 

In the context of God's words today, 'to discern' means 'to be able to understand, perceive, see, and recognize (something)'. Is it from the Lord? Or is it not from the Lord? Is it time to move ahead? Or not to move ahead? What you ought to do? And what you ought not to do? 

Many things are going to change this year. The way we do things. The way we see things. The way we understand things. That's why discernment is the key right now. But the Lord will help you, if you look to Him. Amen! 

The last time a major change of season was in the year 2020. But this year 2025 is the beginning of another big change. For you, I want to believe and pray it will be a change to the better. A time of breakthrough in your life! 

I heard the Lord say further: 

"Like in the days of David, it is time to bring My glory back to your home or wherever you are." 

Yes, this is one area I heard loud and clear from the Lord in this time and season.  It's time to bring His glory back into your life. It's time to bring His glory back to your home. It's time to bring His glory back to your household. Welcome Him. Let His glory fill your life again. Let His glory fill your home again. Let His glory fill the land where you are, wherever the Lord puts you in this time and season.

Let's go all the way to 1 Chronicles 13:2-3. David said to all the assembly of Israel, "If it seems good to you, and if it is of the Lord our God, let us send out to our brethren everywhere who are left in all the land of Israel, and with them to the priests and Levites who are in their cities and their common-lands, that they may gather together to us, and let us bring the ark of our God back to us, for we have not inquired at it since the days of Saul." 

Now, 'the ark of the covenant' here speaks of 'the glory of God or the presence of God being with you'. David and God's people those days eventually brought the ark back. To cut the whole story short, they never looked back ever since. They went on to see great victories and success. God's name is glorified! 

So beloved of God, like David, the same it is in your life, in your family, and in your household. Open your home and open your household to His glory filling all in all. Amen!

You see, David knew the time and season. David knew it is the right time. David gave priority to this. Just one chapter before that, you see there lies the key! Let's look at 1 Chronicles 12 now. There's a tribe among God's people those days whom God specifically mentioned about knowing their time and season. 1 Chronicles 12:32. '...of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do...' The New Living Translation (NLT) puts it this way: 'From the tribe of Issachar... All these men understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take.' 

Interestingly, the name 'Issachar' (or 'Yissakar' in Hebrew) can mean 'he will bring reward, he will yield reward'. Like the sons of Issachar, as you walk in God's timing for your life, you will see good reward and good result too! In other words, right timing brings right results! Therefore, it's so important to ask God for discernment and to understand the right timing in your life, especially in this unpredictable time in the world right now.

Many people underestimate the importance of the sense of timing. For example, when to go ahead on something, or when not to go ahead on something. You see, timing is the key! There is a time to prepare, and there is a time to launch. There is a time to advance, and there is a time to retreat. There is a time to release, and there is a time to hold back. But one thing for sure: God knows better and sees farther! So, you can count on the Lord in this. 

If something is from the Lord, and it is the right timing to go ahead, the Lord will give you the sense of peace inside of you. He can give you the confirmation about it. Confirmation can come in many ways. It can even come through dreams from God to show you what to do and what not to do. I personally have been guided by dreams from God many times at different junctures of my life. It saved me from a lot of trouble, when I heeded those dreams. 

Let's move on to Proverbs 3:5-6. I read from The Message version. 'Trust God from the bottom of your heart. Don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go. He's the One who will keep you on track.' In Ecclesiastes 3:1, The Message version puts it this way: 'There's an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything on the earth.' 

So beloved, listen to His leading and guidance in your life. You may ask: "How?" Go deeper in the Word of God. Dig into the Word of God. Pray in the spirit often. Set your mind on the Lord. Set your mind on the things above, and not on the things below. Commune with Him. Go deeper in your relationship with Him. That's how you can stay in tune with the Holy Spirit inside of you. Of course, stay aligned with Him and His Word. Heed what He says. And let His blood wash you clean, cleansing you white as snow. Cleanse your heart. Cleanse your hands. Clear yourself from any entanglement or sin in this world. Ask God to teach you and help you how to clear all those mess. And you know what? Many things are going to be made clearer and clearer in your life. There will be clarity! 

The Lord is also saying to you right now: 

"Do not fear what comes in this world! Do not be tossed to and fro by the media or by the news of this world. Shut your ears from the noises of this world. But listen to the still small voice inside of you. I want to speak to you! I want to show you many secrets that you know not of before! Do not trust in the 'chariots' and 'horses' in this world. But trust in Me. Let Me fill you with My Spirit. For you shall begin to walk in My wisdom and My revelation, going forward. Take heed, and no matter what 'shakings' that you see in this world, you shall be spared! For I'm going to teach you how to see according to My way. Not according to how the world show you. Not according to how the world say to you."

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You are never too late!

Words from the Lord: 

"You are never too late! Whatever your past may be, and even if you have messed up or missed out, do not worry. I make all things new. Keep looking to Me. Keep walking with Me. Keep praising. Keep worshiping. Keep receiving My Word. For I have not forgotten you. I will know how to redeem your lost time. I will know how to restore your lost opportunity. I will even set up many new divine appointments for you, going forward. Just do not limit how I am going to do it."

Ecclesiastes 9:11 (NKJV) says, 'The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all.' 

Before I explain this verse, let's go to the words 'time' and 'chance' here. The word 'time' here is 'eth' in Hebrew. In the context of this verse, it can mean 'the time that is appointed by the Lord'. The word 'chance' here is 'pega' in Hebrew. In the context of this verse, it can mean 'the Lord's divine appointment for you, the Lord's opportune time for you, or the Lord's right timing for you'. 

There's time and season in everything. But one thing that you don't have to worry is the Lord knows exactly what is the best for you. He sees farther than you. In fact, He sees farther than anyone on this earth can. And in His time, He makes all things beautiful for you. Your part is to keep looking to Him and receiving from Him.

How to explain 'the swift', 'the strong', and 'the wise' in this verse? These speak of 'the swift, the strong, and the wise' in the worldly way, using merely human strength or human intelligence. You see, there are people in this world who do all these things without the Lord, or without acknowledging that the Lord is first and foremost in their lives. 

The author of this Book of Ecclesiastes, i.e. King Solomon, had seen life enough to make a conclusion that it doesn't mean 'the swift, the strong, and the wise' will always translate into success, riches, or favor in life. 

Now, don't get me wrong here. I am not teaching people to be lazy. If you are a student, do it the best you know how. If you have a career, do it the best you know how. If you are in ministry, give it your best, serving as unto the Lord. But in all our diligence and effort, know that the Lord has to be in the first place, and be the first and foremost in our lives. Why? Because it is the Lord who sets good things up for us in ways humans cannot. 

In a more contemporary version of the Bible, say, The New Living Translation (NLT), the translators put it this way: 'The fastest runner doesn’t always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn’t always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don’t always lead successful lives. It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time.'

Do you believe the Lord's 'eth' and 'pega' can happen to you too? Will you allow Him to cause good things to happen to you, and set up divine appointments for you, going forward? Yes, even this year! 

As for me, I thank the Lord for the many 'eth' and 'pega', i.e. 'time' and 'chance', that He had already given to me, e.g. how I was saved, how I was healed, how I met my wife, how I answered His call to ministry, how He intervened in crucial junctures of my life, how He led me from one season to another, and the list goes on. And I know there will be more to come. Why? Because I believe that He is a good God. 

Beloved, I want to believe the same for you too, be it in your relationship, in your career, in your business, in the ministry, or in every other area of your life. Amen!

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A new cycle is coming!

The Lord says: 

"A new cycle is coming for many of My people in the coming months. This is a season many of My people are seeing a new page turning in their lives. Do not be afraid of embracing the new that I have shown you. Look to Me and put your trust in Me."

The Lord says further:

"For some, I will even show you dreams to guide you and lead you. I will empower and enable you for what is to come. For some, you are moving on from one stage of life to another stage of life. For some, you are transiting into a new venture and opportunity. For some, you are being released from the old cycle into the new cycle that you have not known before." 

There's a cycle and season in everything. When the Lord moves, you move. When the Lord's wave comes, you ride on it, like a surfer. That's how you move on in life. Ride on the wave of the Holy Spirit. Don't get stuck in your past. 

Indeed, there is more coming in your life going forward! Good things I mean. Not bad things. He will give you the grace to embrace the new. He will give you the grace to embrace change. For many people, it's not so easy to embrace change. But sometimes, the Lord leads us to change, so we will not get stuck in life. So, contrary to what some people think, change isn't necessarily bad. Many changes are good. 

Let's go to one example of someone who knew his time and cycle in life. There are many examples in the Bible, of course. But for today, let's look at Elisha. Elisha knew his time. 

2 Kings 2:5-8 (NKJV) says, 'Now the sons of the prophets who were at Jericho came to Elisha and said to him, "Do you know that the Lord will take away your master from over you today?" So he answered, "Yes, I know; keep silent!" Then Elijah said to him, "Stay here, please, for the Lord has sent me on to the Jordan." But Elisha said, "As the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!" So the two of them went on. Now Elijah took his mantle, rolled it up, and struck the water, and it was divided this way and that, so that the two of them crossed over on dry ground.' 

Elisha has been faithful in his old cycle. Elisha has been a very keen learner. Elisha has been watching how Elijah did things. But there came a time when a new cycle was about to begin. 

2 Kings 2:9-11 (NKJV) says, 'And so it was, when they had crossed over, that Elijah said to Elisha, "Ask! What may I do for you, before I am taken away from you?" Elisha said, "Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me." So he said, "You have asked a hard thing. Nevertheless, if you see me when I am taken from you, it shall be so for you. But if not, it shall not be so." That's what Elijah said to Elisha. Then it happened, as they continued on and talked, that suddenly a chariot of fire appeared with horses of fire, and separated the two of them; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.' 

Here, you see that Elijah's time on earth had been fulfilled. As for Elisha, a new cycle was about to begin. As Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven, a new cycle began for Elisha. Now, we thank God for Elijah. Without Elijah, Elisha cannot be the Elisha that we see in the Scripture. It was from where he was in this old cycle that he moved on into his new cycle. Notice that many things are caught and not just taught. Elisha eventually received his double portion. 

Like Elisha, you too can walk into a new cycle and embrace the new that the Lord has for you. You can cherish the memory of the past. But when the Lord says it's time to move on, you move on. You will never go wrong if you flow with His time and season for you. 

Like Elisha, it's time for you to be who God wants you to be in this new time and season. There is a release right now. Walk in all that the Lord has spoken today. Keep looking to the Lord. He will show you and lead you, every step of the way. Exciting days are ahead of you! 

What's your part? Your part is to stay in tune with the Holy Spirit. Walk with the Lord closely. Continue to eat of His Word and drink of His Spirit. He will know how to lead you, guide you, even give you dreams when you are asleep at night. So, fear not. Because the Lord will always show you before He acts. 

Let us pray: 

"O Lord God, we thank You for Your prophetic words today. Indeed, we want to walk in the new cycle in our lives. We do not want to be afraid of embracing the new that You want to show us. We look to You and put our trust in You. We even ask of You to show us dreams to guide us and lead us. We thank You for a release from the old cycle into the new cycle in our lives. And for this new cycle, You have spoken that it is good. We therefore thank You in advance for the many more great and wonderful things that You are going to show us going forward. In Jesus' name. Amen."

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How to know your time and season in life?

Let's talk about time and season in our lives, and how we can flow in God's time and season for each of our lives. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of flowing with God's time and season for each of our lives. 

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV) says, 'To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.' 

Notice the words 'under heaven' here? It means 'on this earth'. There is a time and season for everything here on this earth.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV) says, 'He has made everything beautiful in its time...' 

Whether it's in the spiritual realm, or whether it's in the natural (physical) realm, it is the same. And not just us. Even animals too are created with the ability to sense and cope with time and season. 

For example, winter can be harsh in the wild. There is less food available in winter time. These animals need to learn to prepare enough food and enough warmth as winter draws near. What happens if they miss their time? Their chances of survival will be slim. Some animals would collect or gather food in the hole or underground. Some animals would grow thicker coat of fur, so they can retain heat. In fact, some other animals would avoid the difficulties of winter by reducing their metabolic rate, going into a time of hibernating when the body temperature drops and the heartbeat reduces. So, they might look like dormant, almost like dead, but they are actually alive. 

So, how do you know you are in time, out of time, or behind time? How do you know if you are walking in the perfect timing of the Lord? How do you know the time and season in your life, in every aspect of your life? And how not to miss your time? 

In 1 Chronicles 12:32 (NKJV), the Bible says, '...of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do...' 

The name 'Issachar' here is interesting. It's 'Yissakar' in Hebrew, from the root word 'naw-sar'. This word 'naw-sar' means 'to lift, to rise (higher than others)'. 

Interestingly, the Hebrew word for 'eagle' is 'nesher', and this word also comes from the same root word 'naw-sar'. 

So people of God, may you have such eagle's vision, and may you be so sensitive in the spirit as you flow with God's time and season in your life! 

You see, there's a time for waiting, and there's a time for soaring. There's a time to move forward, and there's a time to return to the nest. 

Eagles have such awesome sense of timing. You know that they hardly crash. They just know when to plunge to catch the prey, and when to lift up after catching the prey at the sea. 

May you be like that eagle ('nesher')! May you lift and rise higher than the storms above you! May you soar with the winds of the Holy Spirit! May you soar in the ways of the Lord! 

My prayer for you right now is the Lord will sensitize your spirit to know your time and season in your life; to walk in it, to flow with it, and to see His good hands in your life!

Very interestingly, the word 'times' here in 1 Chronicles 12:32 is 'paam' in Hebrew, which speaks of 'the movement in the spiritual realm'. 

May you too know the movement in the spiritual realm around you! 

The key here is to be connected to the Holy Spirit who is all-knowing. It is when you are in tune and connected with the Holy Spirit that you'll be able to catch the "frequency" and "transmission" of the Holy Spirit in your life. It is when you are in tune and connected with the Holy Spirit that you'll be able to catch what the Holy Spirit is doing in your life. And that's how you'll move with such precision like that of an eagle ('nesher')! 

There are three ways to see time: kronos, kairos, and atomos. 

First, 'kronos' time. 

What is a 'kronos' time? 

It is a time to keep building, building, building... and a time to keep preparing, preparing, preparing...  It's like a planter who keeps tending the plants, yet no fruits to be harvested yet. Or it's like a tree growing its fruits, but not ripe for the picking yet. A waiting time is not a wasted time. A waiting time is a time of strengthening, building, and preparing. If you are in such a time now, continue to build yourself in the Word and in the Spirit. Continue to prepare yourself for the greater things that are coming in your life! 

This Greek word 'kronos' is where the English words 'chronicles' or 'chronology' come from. It means 'a time implying a fixed time (or duration), a waiting time, or a time that can be measured (by the physical clock)'. 

Second, 'kairos' time. 

What is a 'kairos' time? 

It is a time when the 'fruit' is ripe for the 'picking' or 'harvesting'! In 1 Chronicles 12:32, in the Greek Old Testament, the word 'times' here, or 'paam' in Hebrew, is translated as 'kairos'. It means 'a time or occasion implying a set time (or a time set by God), an opportune time (when a thing should be done), or an appointed time (to accomplish a God-given task)'. In short, it means 'the right moment', 'the right opportunity', or 'an opportune time'. 

Very interestingly, the next few chapters following 1 Chronicles 12:32 are about the right time or the right timing to bring the ark of the covenant, which speaks of 'the presence of the Lord, or the glory of the Lord', back to the city of God! You can see that in 1 Chronicles chapters 13, 14, and 15. Here, the right time to bring back the ark of the covenant to the city of God had come! They did it, and they saw the glory of the Lord! 

Third, 'atomos' time. 

What is an 'atomos' time?

It is a time of our final victory as believers of the Lord Jesus Christ! Of course, if you are reading this, this time has not come yet. This is because the Lord wants you to make the most out of your current time. He wants you to fulfill His calling for your life here on earth. He wants you to fulfill His vision and mission for you here on earth. But there will come a time when 1 Corinthians 15:52 will come, as the Bible says, 'In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.' Rapture time! 

The word 'moment' here is 'atomos' in Greek, which actually means 'uncut, indivisible'. This word 'atomos' is where the English words 'atom' or 'atomic' come from. You see, even 'one second' can be further divided into, say, 'half a second', 'a quarter of a second', 'a hundredth of a second', or even 'a thousandth of a second'. But an 'atomos' is a unit that cannot be further divided.

And in such 'atomos' time, 'in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye', someday, Jesus returns! And that's when we shall all be in eternity. Not time-bound anymore. Not limited by time anymore. Ageless! 

1 Corinthians 15:53-54 (NKJV) backs this up, 'For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So, when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory"'. Amen! 

So, you have 'kronos' time, you have 'kairos' time, and in the future, you have that 'atomos' time! 

Let's look at one example now. 

Let's look at Joseph's life. Joseph went through different stages (or seasons) in his life. It can be summarized in Acts 7:9-14 (NKJV) here. 'And the patriarchs, becoming envious, sold Joseph into Egypt. But God was with him and delivered him out of all his troubles, and gave him favor and wisdom in the presence of Pharaoh, king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. Now a famine and great trouble came over all the land of Egypt and Canaan, and our fathers found no sustenance. But when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first, and the second time Joseph was made known to his brothers, and Joseph's family became known to the Pharaoh. Then Joseph sent and called his father Jacob and all his relatives to him, seventy-five people.' 

That was a time of reuniting! Jacob (Joseph's father) and all of Joseph's brothers came to Egypt, and they were all reunited with Joseph! 

There are five stages (or seasons) in Joseph's life. 

1. Adored by his father. 

2. Despised by his brothers. 

3. Served under a foreign master. 

4. Employed by a foreign king. 

5. Reunited with his family. 

Very interestingly, Joseph's life is a 'picture' of Jesus Himself on earth. Joseph started off as his father Jacob's favorite son. And in the very end, Joseph was reunited with his father Jacob. Look at Jesus now. He came from the Father. He returned to the Father. It is the same with each of us. We came from God the Father. We shall return to God the Father!

Like Joseph, each of us has our own unique life story too. We all have our time and season. We all have our stages and seasons in life. Our part is to continue to trust the Lord that He knows what He's doing in our lives, and trust the Lord that all things will eventually work out for good in our lives. 

So beloved of God, whatever you've been going through in your life at the moment, keep looking to the Lord. The Lord sometimes allows certain things to happen in our lives, because He sees farther than us and He knows better than us. Continue to stay connected with the Lord. You may not understand everything that He is doing at the moment, but one day, you will understand. His ways and His thoughts are always higher than ours. He is a good God, and you shall see that He is indeed a good God in your life. Amen!

Prayer: 

"O Lord God, we thank You that You are a Sovereign God. We want to learn to walk in Your time and season in our lives. We know that You see farther than us and You know better than us. We want to stay connected to You, and we want to stay in tune with Your Spirit. We want to be like the "eagle" who knows how to soar higher than any storm on earth. We want to be like the "eagle" who knows how to soar in the wind of the Holy Spirit. We want to flow in Your time and season. We will know when to move ahead and when to let go. We will know when to rise and when to rest. We will know when to harvest and when to prepare. In Jesus' name. Amen."

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How to walk in step with God?

The Lord says: "Many of My people are entering a new season in their lives. Do not fear or be anxious, but rejoice in Me! Look not behind you, but look forward to the good that I have prepared for you! New season brings new supply of My grace and favor. New season brings new open doors for you. New season brings new people walking along your path. Walk in this new season." 

The Lord says further: "Keep hearing My voice and My words! Keep your heart right before Me and stay yielded to Me! That's how I will supply you with the wisdom you need in your new season. And you'll know how to go about and what to do in this new season of yours." 

1 Chronicles 12:32 (NKJV) says, '...of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their command.'  

This name 'Issachar' here is 'Yissakar' in Hebrew, and it literally means 'He will bring a reward'. In the context here, the reward for being discerning and being in tune with the Spirit of the Lord is in knowing what to do and how to go about in each time and season of their lives!

How about the word 'times' here? It's 'paam' in Hebrew, and very interestingly, one meaning of this word is 'footsteps'. In other words, knowing how to follow the footsteps of the Lord and walk in step with the Lord! This is so important. You know why? Because when you follow the footsteps of the Lord and walk in step with the Lord, you will never need to worry about walking in the wrong direction in your life!

By the way, to walk in step with the Lord is to walk in exactly the same timing and pattern of movement as the Lord! Wherever He walks, you walk; and wherever He goes, you go!

Back to the verse just now. To put it simply, the sons of Issachar knew what to do and how to go about in each time and season they were walking in! 

May all of us be like the sons of Issachar! 

Of course the question here is how did they know their time and season? How did they discern and understand the times? What are their secrets? What made them different from the others? And what can we learn from them?

I believe the answer is in being open and yielded to the Spirit of the Lord! As a matter of fact, the more you are surrendered to Him and the more you are yielded to Him, the more you will be in tune with what He says, whether through His Word or through His Spirit! And that's how you will know, understand, and discern the time and season of the Lord in your life!

You see, the answer lies in this word 'footsteps'! Follow His 'footsteps'! Because that's when you will be where He will be, and walk where He walks!

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How to know your time and season in life?

8 keys to understand and know your time and season in life:

1. Through your inner witness

Romans 2:15 (NKJV) says, '...who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them.'

Romans 8:16 (NKJV) says, 'The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God...'

2. Through prayer and fasting

Isaiah 58:6 (NKJV) says, 'Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?'

Acts 13:1-3 (NKJV) says, 'Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, "Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.'

3. Through circumstances around you

Romans 8:28 (NKJV) says, 'And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.'

Ecclesiastes 8:6 (ISV) says, 'Indeed, there is an appropriate time and a response for every circumstance...'

4. Through prophetic words that you receive

1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 (NKJV) says, 'Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good.'

2 Peter 1:19 (NKJV) says, 'And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place...'

2 Peter 1:21 (NKJV) says, '... for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.'

5. Through dreams and visions that you receive

Acts 2:17 (GNT) says, 'This is what I will do in the last days, God says: I will pour out my Spirit on everyone. Your sons and daughters will proclaim my message; your young men will see visions, and your old men will have dreams.'

Job 33:15-16 (NKJV) says, 'In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls upon men, while slumbering on their beds, then He opens the ears of men, and seals their instruction.'

6. Through watching your open doors

Revelation 3:8 (NKJV) says, 'I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it...'

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) says, 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.'

7. Through reading the Word of God

Psalm 119:105 (Expanded) says, 'Your word is like a lamp for my feet and a light for my path [it shows how life should be lived].'

Psalm 119:130 (NKJV) says, 'The entrance of Your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.'

8. Through thoughts dropped on you while praying in the spirit

1 Corinthians 2:9 (Expanded) says, 'But as it is written in the Scriptures: "No one [eye] has ever seen this, and no one [ear] has ever heard about it. No one [human heart] has ever imagined what God has prepared for those who love him."'

Habakkuk 2:2 (GNT) says, 'The Lord gave me this answer: "Write down clearly on tablets what I reveal to you, so that it can be read at a glance."'

Click here for details of this teaching in TiC YouTube Channel

Why does God allow delay?

The Lord impressed upon my heart to share about dealing with delay, and why does God sometimes allow delay. 

As a matter of fact, nobody likes delay. We all wish that when we want something, we want it now! Just like when we wait for the bus, the train, or the plane! How many of you have experienced waiting for hours and hours for the plane to arrive?

Many things are being delayed in a time of pandemic this year. It's a rather disruptive year for many. For some, it is a delay in the area of your career path. For some others, in the area of your personal plans, or personal dreams (or visions). 

But you know what? Delay sometimes isn't a bad thing at all! 

So today, we are going to explore this topic: Why does God allow delay?

1. He is protecting you from certain harm or danger 

He knows your future better than anyone else on earth. He knows what is ahead more than you'll ever know. And because He loves you, He wants to ensure that you'll avoid a certain 'pitfall' in your life. He knows certain things that come too soon will 'crush' you (e.g. an honor or title that comes too soon). You may not be ready now, but God is working to ensure that you are ready when the right time comes!

Psalm 57:1 (Expanded Bible) says, 'Be merciful [gracious] to me, God; be merciful [gracious] to me because I come to You for protection [seek refuge]. Let me hide [be protected; seek refuge] under the shadow of Your wings until the trouble [destruction] has passed'.

Psalm 25:20 (Expanded Bible) says, 'Protect me and save [rescue; deliver] me. I trust [find refuge in] You, so do not let me be disgraced [shamed]'.

2. He is delaying His answer because of His timing 

His timing is always perfect. He is in full control of all things, at all times, and in all places. Delay can happen because it isn't His timing for you yet. He has a time and season for everything. Rest assured it doesn't mean He isn't answering you, or He is denying you or forsaking you, but He knows what's best for you and when's best for you!

Isaiah 55:8 (NKJV) says, '"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord'.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (Expanded Bible) says, 'There is a time [season] for everything, and everything [every activity] on earth [under heaven] has its special season [time]'.

3. He is still in the midst of preparing you and growing you

A delay may be God's way to prepare you for bigger or greater things in the future. A delay may be God's way to grow your faith and character. A delay may be God's way to equip you to handle greater things in the future. A delay may be God's training for you to have a greater capacity for a time of expansion in the future. Your faith, character, and even understanding of how God works will grow more and more as you learn to trust Him in a time of delay.

James 1:2-3 (NKJV) says, 'My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience'.

1 Peter 1:13 (NCV) says, 'So prepare your minds for service and have self-control. All your hope should be for the gift of grace that will be yours when Jesus Christ is shown to you'.

2 Timothy 2:20-21 (NKJV) says, 'But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work'.

4. He is delaying His answer in order to give you a new purpose/direction 

When delay happens, He may be in the midst of re-directing you. His delay may be a way to tell you to seek Him afresh and anew. His delay may be a way to tell you that you need to seek His will. It may be a call for you to undo and re-do certain areas in your life. You may be focused on one direction, but He wants you to focus on another direction. Or you may be 'leaning your ladder' against the wrong wall, when He wants you to 'lean your ladder' against another wall.

Colossians 1:9 (NKJV) says, 'For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding...'

Job 37:12 (Amplified Bible) says, 'Its direction is turned around by His guidance, that it may do whatever He commands it on the face of the inhabited earth'.

Prayer in a time of delay or waiting:

"O Lord God, I thank You for Your love for me, and that You want the best for me. Help me in this time of delay or waiting, so that I can move according to Your perfect timing. Help me to be patient, not give up, and trust You even in times like these. Help me not to take matters in my own hands. I choose to trust You, and I choose to be faithful to You. Deepen my understanding of how You work. Give me a greater knowledge of what You are doing in my life. I thank You that You have the perfect wisdom for my life, and You know exactly what's best for me. I therefore yield to You and Your perfect timing for my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen."

Click here to watch this video in YouTube

Knowing your time and season

The Lord says,

"My people need to discern! Ask for discernment and understanding of the times, and you shall receive! This is a key time to discern and understand your time and season, so you can prepare and walk into the new works that I am doing in your life!"

1 Chronicles 12:32 (NKJV) says, '...of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do...', and 1 Chronicles 12:32 (NLT) put it this way, 'From the tribe of Issachar... All these men understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take'.

The name 'Issachar' (or 'Yissakar' in Hebrew) means 'he will bring/yield reward'; coming from two words, 'nasa' (bring/yield) and 'sakar' (reward). And the word 'times' here is 'yowm' in Hebrew, meaning 'day, the series (process) of time and season'.

So, not only the tribe of Issachar understood the times and knew what they ought to do (and ought not to do) in each time and season, but from the meaning of that very name 'Issachar', you can see that 'being in tune with God's timing (and walking in it) will bring good reward (or result)'!

In other words, right timing leads to right result!

Therefore, it is so important to ask for discernment and understanding of the times in our lives, especially in this end-time that is so unpredictable!

Jeremiah 8:7 (NLT) says, 'Even the stork that flies across the sky knows the time of her migration, as do the turtledove, the swallow, and the crane. They all return at the proper time each year. But not my people! They do not know the Lord’s laws'. 

Some birds have marvelous instinct. They have great sense of direction, and they never get lost. They just know when to go, where to go, and how to go! In short, they understand times and seasons, and what to do in each time and season! 

Here, the Lord was actually contrasting these migratory birds with His own very people who do not know, even though they have been given spiritual senses to discern! On a lighter note, the next time you call someone 'bird brain', think again! Because some birds (in this sense) can be more intelligent and smarter than we humans are!

Many people underestimate the importance of the sense of timing. They say, "I want it, and I want it now!", only to burn their fingers later! For example, in going ahead with a business (or a new venture, or an investment), timing is vital!

- There is a time to prepare, and there is a time to launch.

- There is a time to retreat, and there is a time to advance.

- There is a time to hold back, and there is a time to release.

Some people ask, "Where are the funds that I need?" or "Where are the resources that I need?" 

If a 'venture' is from the Lord, you don't have to worry. He already has all the funds and resources you need! But He is keeping it for you! And when the right time comes, He will know how to release it to you! 

He surely knows better and sees farther! Proverbs 3:5-6 (The Message) says, 'Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track...' And Ecclesiastes 3:1 (The Message) says, 'There’s an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything on the earth'. 

As written earlier, if a 'venture' is from the Lord (be it in the commercial, or in spiritual ministry), you don't have to worry. He knows the timing exactly! Listen to His leading and direction. Listen for His voice and guidance. Trust in Him with all your heart!

- He knows exactly when to prepare you, and when to launch you!

- He knows exactly when you should retreat, and when you should advance!

- He knows exactly when to hold you back, and when to release you for greater things!

Therefore, ask for discernment and understanding of the times! 

And you'll be sure to see yourself being released for the greater things that He has for your life - being at the right time, at the right place - doing the right things, saying the right things, and making the right decisions. In Jesus' name. Amen!


For the preaching video of this message, click to watch

For more information about this ministry, visit https://www.triumphinchrist.today/

Words for Year 2020 and beyond: "If you look to Me, you are never too late!"

The Lord says:
"Don't look back at your past mistakes. Don't look back at your lost time or lost opportunity. Look to Me instead. If you look to Me, you are never too late! For to Me, a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like a day."

The Lord says further:
"I will know how to redeem your lost time or lost opportunity, and I will know how to accelerate you towards your God-given destiny!"

People of God, if you have lost your time, or if you have lost your opportunity in the past decade (for whatever reasons), take heart and be encouraged, because the Lord will know how to regain and restore what is rightfully yours in this new decade. Indeed, if you look to Him, you are never too late!

2 Peter 3:8 (NLT) says, 'But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day'. What does this verse imply? To put it simply, 'what humans achieve in 1000 years, the Lord can achieve the same in just 1 day'! By the way, the number '1000' in Hebrew numeric can mean 'divine, or divine completeness'. In other words, the Lord is 'divine' - 'outside of time', and 'not bound (or limited) by time'. Therefore, He will know how to redeem (gain back) your lost time or lost opportunity (in ways man cannot)! He is a God of all possibilities (even if man thinks it's impossible), if you look to Him! By faith, take these words with you, and receive by faith for your new decade!

One example in the Bible is none other than the apostle Paul. As you see in the New Testament, he was a 'latecomer' compared to Peter, James, John, and many other apostles in the early church. In fact, he was still 'breathing threats against the Lord's followers', when the other apostles were already in the thick of preaching the good news with signs, wonders, and miracles accompanying! But the Lord redeemed his lost time, beginning from the 'great light experience' (Acts 9:1-19), and later on, the Lord even sent the right person (Barnabas) to help him! (Acts 9:26-28)

The name 'Barnabas' is very interesting! From the tribe of Levi and from the island of Cyprus, his original name was Joseph, but he was nicknamed 'Barnabas' by the early apostles (see Acts 4:36). For the record, 'Barnabas' doesn't just mean 'Son of Encouragement', 'Son of Exhortation', or 'Son of Comfort'. In Hebrew, the name 'Barnabas' comes from two words, namely 'Bar' meaning 'son of', and 'Nubas' ('Nabiy') meaning 'prophet, someone speaking by the inspiration of the Spirit of God'. So, as you can see here, the Lord knew how to send the right person to Paul - not just to encourage and comfort him when others 'doubted' him (due to his past 'bad reputation'), but the Lord sent 'a prophetic voice' to guide him in that new stage of his life! 

For the year 2020, 2 Chronicles 20:20 will be a 'mainstay' among the many Bible verses God's people shall receive this year. This verse says in New King James Version (NKJV), 'So they rose early in the morning and went out into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, "Hear me, O Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem: Believe in the LORD your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper."'

'Tekoa', by the way, is 'Teqowa' in Hebrew, and it means 'to blow the trumpet as a sign of victory, power, and authority'. Indeed, people of God, 'you shall enter a time of victory in the midst of the wilderness'! Therefore, for this year 2020, take courage, look to the Lord, and receive the prophetic voices that the Lord is sending to you, and whatever 'wilderness' that you are in at the moment, you shall begin to enter a time of victory, power, and authority! Just as you see in King Jehoshaphat's days!

How about the specific words from the Lord for the year 2020?

This year 2020 is a year of acceleration in many things, and the acceleration of many good things in God's people's life!

The word 'accelerate', according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is defined as:
- to move faster
- to gain speed
- to progress from grade to grade more rapidly than usual
- to bring about at an earlier time
- to increase

What are His plans for you in the decade ahead?
- The new decade will be a decade of Him redeeming your lost time or lost opportunity.
- Your part is to keep moving forward, and do not allow yourself to be 'hounded' by your past.
- A decade of God's greater glory be seen in your life.
- A decade when He'll establish you for His kingdom.
- A decade when you'll begin to walk in greater authority.

Believe and receive for your new decade beginning 2020:

- The Lord will know how to establish you! 

- Don't be afraid to be a 'latecomer'! (in an industry or ministry)

- You are never too late!

- The Lord will 'accelerate' you!

- The Lord will send the right people to help you!

Let us give thanks to the Lord in advance, because this is going to be a new decade of God's greater glory be seen in those who look to Him. Amen!

Happy and blessed new year 2020!

Never too late, never too old!

The Lord says:
"Beloved, let My light shine in your heart, and you'll begin to 'see'! Seeing the many good that I want to do in your life this season! Seeing you aren't too late yet, even if the enemy wants you to think so! Seeing that I understand and care for that 'tricky situation' you are in right now! And seeing your answer is right on the way!"

The Lord says further:
"My love for you fails not. Let go of your guilt, condemnation and regret, whatever it may be. Old things have passed away, and all things have become new. Do not lose heart, and do not be discouraged, for I AM with you."

Indeed, God's love for you fails not, and no matter what your past failure or mistake may be, He hasn't forgotten you. And if you think you are too late or too old for a new lease of life, the good news is you are not! 

In the book of Exodus chapter 3, when the Lord met Moses at the burning bush, He said to him, "I am the God of your father - the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows. So I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians..." (Exodus 3:6-8a) 

The Lord then said to him, "Come now, therefore, and I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt." (Exodus 3:10) But Moses answered, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?" (Exodus 3:11)

For the record, some forty years ago, Moses had tried, and he failed miserably. Those days, having looked at the burdens of his fellow Hebrew brethren, and seeing an Egyptian beating one of them, he took matters into his own hands and killed the Egyptian (Exodus 2:11-12). This act was found out by Pharaoh who then sought to kill him, and Moses had no choice but to flee from Egypt. So here he was, forty years on, from being a prince in Egypt to an old, forgotten nobody in the desert!

Beloved, have you felt like time is not on your side anymore? You are running late, and for some of you, you have even felt like you have 'missed the bus' altogether! That was what Moses felt too when he said, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?" After all, he was already eighty years old, and was no more the mighty, eloquent man he used to be!

But God! At the point when Moses had nothing in himself to boast about anymore, and at the time most unexpected to him, the Lord saw him ready for a great work that He was about to do. As you'd already have known, Moses did not look back ever since, and with the rod of God that's in his hand, he eventually led his people out of the bondage of the Egyptians successfully.

The Lord is still the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). There is nothing too difficult for Him, no matter how you think you blew it, or how useless you think you are right now. Just as the Lord asked Moses, "What is that in your hand?", and Moses answered, "A rod". The Lord asked him to cast the rod on the ground, and then pick it up again. This same rod was with Moses as the Lord did great signs and wonders, and even opened the Red Sea through him (Exodus 4:17, Exodus 14:16).

Today, the Lord is also asking you the same, "What is that in your hand?" There must be something in you (it may be a talent, a skill, or anything else) that He can use, no matter how insignificant you think it is. Let the Lord use it, and He will know how to turn things around for you!

This is the time to declare that your miracle and deliverance is coming your way! The Lord has spoken, and He is a God who keeps His promises. Your part is to believe and receive! Indeed, old things have passed away, and all things have become new. This is also the time to declare there will be a restoration of your calling in life, and there will be a new authority coming in your life! And like Moses at that juncture of his life, the best is yet to come in your life too. Amen!

Knowing your time and season

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV): To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.

Notice the words 'under heaven' in this verse? Indeed, there is a time and season for everything here on earth. The author of this book then wrote, 'He has made everything beautiful in its time...' (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

As a matter of fact, Jesus knew His time (and timing) while on earth. In John 2:4, He said, "My hour (timing) has not yet come" when a wedding banquet ran out of wine. Later on, in the right timing, He then performed His first miracle by turning water to wine. In Luke 4:29-30, when those in the synagogue wanted to kill Him by throwing Him down over the cliff, He somehow managed to free Himself, because His time (to die) was not yet.

In the natural (physical) realm, animals too are created with the ability to sense and cope with seasonal changes. Winter can be harsh. In the wild, there is less food available in winter time. These animals need to learn to prepare enough food and enough warmth as winter draws near. If they miss the time, chances are they will not survive. Some would collect (gather) food in the hole or underground. Some would grow thicker coat of fur so they can retain heat. Some others would avoid the difficulties of winter by reducing their metabolic rate, going into a time of hibernating (when the body temperature drops and the heartbeat reduces). They look dormant, almost like dead, but they are actually still alive.

So, how do you know you are in time, out of time, or behind time? How do you know if you are walking in the perfect timing of the Lord? How do you know the time and season in your life (and in every aspect of your life)? And how not to miss your time?

In 1 Chronicles 12:32, the Bible says, '...of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do...' 

The name 'Issachar' here is 'Yissakar' in Hebrew, from two words, i.e. 'nasa' ('naw-sar') meaning 'to lift, to rise (higher than others)', and 'sakar' meaning 'to benefit, to reward'. Interestingly, the Hebrew word for 'eagle' is 'nesher', which comes from this same root word 'nasa'. Isaiah 40:31 says, '...those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles ('nesher'), they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint'. The word 'wait' here is 'qavah' in Hebrew, which means 'to gather, to collect, to bind (together) like twisting the cord'. In other words, a time of waiting on the Lord is also a time of building (and strengthening) one's relationship with the Lord. It is only then that something new is conceived and birthed forth!

Putting the two words ('nasa' and 'sakar') together, the meaning of this name 'Issachar' becomes clear, i.e. when you know the time and season of the Lord in your life (and walk in it), you too will see your reward ('sakar')! 

The word 'times' here in 1 Chronicles 12:32 is 'paam' in Hebrew, which speaks of 'the movement in the spiritual realm'. Ask the Holy Spirit to sensitize your spirit man, so that you too will know the 'movement' in the spiritual realm around you. The key here is to be 'hooked' ('connected') to the Holy Spirit (who is all-knowing). It is when you are in tune with the Holy Spirit that you will 'catch' the 'frequency' and 'transmission' of the Holy Spirit in your life! And that's how you will move with such precision like that of an eagle ('nesher').

So, what time are you in now? 

Just as there is winter time and there is summer time in the natural (physical) realm, there is also preparation time and harvest time in the spiritual realm. 

Are you in a 'winter time' when nothing seems to be happening at the moment? Take heart, because your spring time and summer time will come, if you do not give up looking to Him and putting your hope in Him! Indeed, you will mount up with wings like eagles again (Isaiah 40:29-31).

Kronos (chronos) time:

A time to keep building, building, building... and a time to keep preparing, preparing, preparing...

Like a planter who keeps tending the plants, yet no fruits to be harvested yet. Or like a tree growing its fruits, but not ripe for the picking yet. As you can see here, a waiting time is not a wasted time.

This Greek word 'kronos' ('chronos') is where the English words 'chronicles' or 'chronology' come from. It means 'a time implying a fixed time (duration), a waiting (lingering, delayed) time, a time that can be measured (by the physical clock)'. In short, it means 'to take time'. You can find this word 'kronos' ('chronos') in 1 Thessalonians 5:1, when the Bible talks about preparing for the Lord's coming.

Kairos time:

A time when the 'fruit' is ripe for the picking (harvesting). In 1 Chronicles 12:32 (Greek Old Testament), the word 'times' ('paam' in Hebrew) here is translated as 'kairos'. It means 'a time (occasion) implying a set time, an opportune time (when a thing should be done), an appointed time (to accomplish a God-given task)'. In short, it means 'the right moment'. Interestingly, the next few chapters following 1 Chronicles 12:32 are about the right time (timing) to bring the ark of the covenant (which speaks of 'the presence of the Lord' or 'the glory of the Lord') back to the city of God! (see 1 Chronicles chapters 13, 14, 15) 

Other examples of the word 'kairos' in the Bible:

Mark 1:15 (NKJV): "The time ('kairos') is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel".

Acts 3:19 (NKJV): "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times ('kairos') of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord".

Luke 12:56 (NKJV): "You can discern the face of the sky and of the earth (rain, or hot weather), but how is it you do not discern this time ('kairos')?"

Atomos time (our final victory):

A time of our final victory as the believers of the Lord Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 15:52, the Bible says, '...in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed'. The word 'moment' here is 'atomos' in Greek, which actually means 'uncut, indivisible', where the English words 'atom' or 'atomic' come from. You see, even 'one second' can be further 'divided' into, say, 'half a second', 'a quarter of a second', 'a hundredth of a second', or even 'a thousandth of a second', but an 'atomos' is 'a unit that cannot be further divided'. And in such 'atomos' time (in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye) some day, Jesus will return! And that's when we shall all be in eternity (not time-bound, not limited by time, ageless). 1 Corinthians 15:53-54 says it aptly, 'For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory."' Amen.

Walking in God's divine appointment

Ecclesiastes 9:11 (NKJV): ... The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all.

The word 'time' here in Hebrew is 'eth', which can mean one's 'now time', one's due season, one's appointed time, or one's due time. The word 'chance' here in Hebrew is 'pega', from the word 'paga', and in the context of this verse, means (His) opportune time for you, (His) intercession/intervening for you, (His) light upon you, (His) causing to happen for you, or (His) divine appointment/meeting for you.

How about the 'swift', the 'strong', the 'wise', the 'understanding', and the 'skill' here in this verse? These speak of the swift, the strong, the wise, the understanding, and the skill in the worldly way, using human strength, self-effort, or own intelligence. Notice the author of this book (Ecclesiastes) had probably seen life enough to make a conclusion that all the above human 'qualities' do not necessarily translate into success, satisfaction, riches or favor in life.

People of God, do you believe God's 'eth' and 'pega' can happen to you too? Will you believe and allow Him to cause His light to come upon you? Will you believe and allow Him to cause good things to happen to you and set up divine appointments for you even this year? Well, as for me, I really do! In fact, I thank God for the many 'eth' and 'pega' that had already happened in my life thus far (how I was saved, how I was healed, how I met my wife, how I answered God's call into full-time ministry, how ministry began, how God intervened in crucial junctures of my life, how God led me from one season to another, and the list goes on). As I look back, I can only stand in amazement and with much thanksgiving for all He has done. I know there'll be more to come, because I believe He is a good God and I trust in His goodness. I believe this for you too, in whichever area of your life. Amen!

There are many great examples of God's divine appointment in the Bible, but one of the most fascinating is found in Genesis chapter 24. Indeed, God plans the best for His beloved!

Genesis 24:1-4 (NKJV) says, 'Now Abraham was old, well advanced in age; and the Lord had blessed Abraham in all things. So Abraham said to the oldest servant of his house, who ruled over all that he had, "Please, put your hand under my thigh, and I will make you swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and earth, that you will not take a wife for my son from the daughters of Canaanites, among whom I dwell; but you shall go to my country and to my family, and take a wife for my son Isaac."'

'Abraham' here is a 'picture' of God the Father, whereas 'Isaac' speaks of you and I today. Just as Abraham wanted the best for his son Isaac, know that your Father in heaven also wants the best for you in your life! Not only that, He can even send His angels (or the right people at the right time) to cause things to happen to you too!

Genesis 24:9-13 (NKJV) then says, 'So the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, and swore to him concerning this matter... Then the servant arose and went to Mesopotamia, to the city of Nahor. And he made his camels kneel down outside the city by a well of water at evening time, the time ('eth') when the women go out to draw water. Then the servant said, "O Lord God of my master Abraham, please give me success this day."'

The expression 'give me success' is translated as 'send me good speed' in King James Version (KJV), and 'good speed' here is 'qarah' in Hebrew, which means 'light upon, happen (unto)'. As a matter of fact, the servant was actually asking the Lord for a divine appointment! In other words, he came to that place (i.e. by a well of water) at that time (i.e. evening time) as led by the Lord by faith, and then be positioned for God to do the rest!

Genesis 24:14-15 (NKJV) continues, '"Now, let it be that the young woman to whom I say, 'Please let down your pitcher that I may drink,' and she says, 'Drink, and I will also give your camels a drink' - let her be the one You have appointed for Your servant Isaac." And it happened, before he had finished speaking, that behold, Rebekah came out with her pitcher on her shoulder'.

See the words 'appointed' and 'happened' here? Interestingly, the word 'appointed' here is 'yakach' in Hebrew, which actually means 'the right one, or the correct one'!

Genesis 24:22-27 (NKJV) then says, 'So it was, when the camels had finished drinking, that the man (servant) took a golden nose ring... and two bracelets for her wrists... and said, "Whose daughter are you? Tell me, please, is there room in your father's house for us to lodge?" So she said to him, "I am the daughter of Bethuel, Milcah's son, whom she bore to Nahor." Then the man bowed down his head and worshiped the Lord. And he said, "Blessed be the Lord God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken His mercy and truth... As for me, the Lord led me to the house of my master's brethren."'

And it turned out that Rebekah was from the family of Nahor, Abraham's brother! (see also Genesis 11:26) Was it a mere coincidence or 'good luck' that this servant found Rebekah (out of so many ladies)? I don't think so. The Bible says it was the Lord who led him to this divine appointment!

Also, when there's a divine appointment set up by the Lord for you, there'll also be confirmation. You see, Rebekah's family could have rejected this servant and said 'no' to him. But look at what Genesis 24:50-51 says: Then Laban (Rebekah's brother) and Bethuel (Rebekah's dad) answered and said, "The thing comes from the Lord; we cannot speak to you either bad or good. Here is Rebekah before you; take her and go, and let her be your master's son's wife, as the Lord has spoken."

And how about Rebekah herself? Did she relish this divine appointment? Was she all for it when the servant wanted to bring her back to his master's son the next day? Genesis 24:58-60 says, 'Then they called Rebekah and said to her, "Will you go with this man?" And she said, "I will go." ... And they (Rebekah's family) blessed Rebekah...'

Wow! Speak about double confirmation!

Let me now end with Genesis 24:67. It says, 'Then Isaac brought her (Rebekah) into his mother Sarah's tent, and he took Rebekah and she became his wife, and he loved her'.

Wow again! A wonderful match made in heaven! This has to be God's doing!

Beloved and friends, this is also your God today. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8), and He can cause wonderful things to happen to you too! It doesn't matter how 'dark' your past may be, because the truth is He loves you so very much (like Abraham loved his son Isaac), and therefore His plan for your life is also going to be good till the very end. Believe, and you'll receive. Amen!

Take one day at a time!

Exodus 16:4a,b: Then the Lord said to Moses, "Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you. And the people shall go out and gather every day..."

I recently heard these words, and then ministered to someone dear whom I know: "Just because your 'promised land' is not in sight yet, does not mean your 'promised land' never existed!" I believe this is also an assurance for you who are reading this. What is your 'promised land'? It may be a prophecy (that 'you know that you know' is from the Lord), a dream, or a vision that has yet to come to pass.

I then said this to that someone: "Take one day at a time first. Don't worry about your tomorrows. Enjoy your daily manna first, and keep walking."

You may have been asking this same question too: "Will I ever see the fulfillment of that prophecy/dream/vision in my life?" Beloved, never make the same mistakes that Moses' people made! Just because they didn't see any 'promised land' in sight yet, they began to doubt, murmur and complain (Exodus 16:2), when the fact and the truth was 'their promised land has already existed!"

"So, pastor, what should I do now while waiting?"

Exodus 16 brings us to this situation when Moses' people were in the 'wilderness', already out of their Egypt ('picture' of past bondage/hurts), but yet to see their 'promised land'. That was when the Lord spoke to Moses, "Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you. And the people shall go out and gather a certain quota every day..." (Exodus 16:4). The Lord has promised to provide daily for the people, and then on the sixth day, the providence would be twice the normal amount (Exodus 16:5), so the people could rest from 'collecting' manna on the seventh day. Notice God was the One giving them their rest (Sabbath) on the seventh day (Exodus 16:26-30). The number '7' in Hebrew is a number for 'rest, completed work'. For example, God completed His creation work on the seventh day (see Genesis 2:1-2).

So, apart from taking one day at a time and not worry about your 'tomorrows' (Matthew 6:33-34), God has also given you rest on the seventh day, i.e. Sabbath (Exodus 16:29). Will you receive His rest? The secret to 'run and keep on running' (towards your 'promised land') without losing 'steam' is to take a day to rest (to receive refreshing from the Lord) every week. Put aside every form of 'busy-ness', and rest in Him & drink from Him. He is your 'spiritual R&R'. This is God's 'blueprint' for you. You'll then be refreshed and renewed for the week ahead!

And as you enjoy your 'daily manna' (i.e. receiving all the 'daily fresh' goodness of God in your every day life), know that His everyday blessing for you 'contains no worms in it and will not stink'! (Exodus 16:19-20) You know what? It's fresh! It's good! And it's new! The Bible says 'His mercy is new every morning', and no wonder the psalmist sang, 'This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it' (Psalm 118:24). Note that today's 'manna' is NOT for your tomorrow, lest it 'breeds worms and stinks'! (Exodus 16:19-20) Today's blessing is for you to enjoy and cherish today! The blessing can be good health, ideas, favor, wisdom, open doors, and the list goes on. (Note: having said all these, I'm not saying you don't plan for your tomorrows; but I'm saying you don't worry about your tomorrows)

So, people of God, in times when you haven't seen the manifestation of your 'promised land' yet, take heart. It doesn't mean God has forgotten you. In fact, He will never leave you nor forsake you. Complain not. Doubt not. Murmur not. Keep looking to Him. Let's learn from Moses' time. May you be the 'Joshuas' and the 'Calebs' of this end-time! Amen.

Knowing & walking into your time and season

1 Chronicles 12:32a: Of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do..

The word 'Issachar' in Hebrew means ‘he will bring a reward’. The sons of Issachar were people of revelation. They knew the timing and season of the Lord well, and they knew what Israel ought to do in that particular time and season. I believe this is also the reward for those who seek Him today. When you seek Him, you'll receive His revelation, and therefore, you'll know the timing and season in your life as well!

It's no coincident why this verse in 1 Chronicles 12:32 was written just before King David decided to bring the ark of the covenant (symbolizing God's glory & God's leadership in battle) back to Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 13:3). That was actually the 'kairos' time for the ark to be brought back!

There are two ways to see 'time' in Greek. One is 'kronos'. The other is 'kairos'. 'Kronos' time is linear and fixed, where the English word 'chronology' came from. It's going through day by day according to chronological calendar. So, after passing point 'A' and moving to point 'B', one can never return back to point A (i.e can’t turn back time). However, God is above 'kronos' time. God sees the end from the beginning. I see you entering your 'kairos' time (meaning either ‘opportune time' or 'in due season’) in your life, just as David entered the 'kairos' time to bring back the ark! David did not miss his timing and season, and as a result, Israel was never the same again! God even made a covenant with David after that (1 Chronicles 17:14), to establish him in His house and in His kingdom forever, and his throne shall be established forever.

What if you thought you've missed/messed up your past? There's good news for you! God can redeem your time! ‘Redeem’ means ‘buy back time’. You see, God moves not in a linear or fixed way. He is above time. He is outside time. He is beyond time. So, it's never too late for you! To God, one day is as a thousand years (2 Peter 3:8). What takes a thousand years for human to achieve, God can do it within only one day! He can 'buy back' your time and then accelerate you into His destiny for your life!

"Pastor, how then can I move into my 'kairos' time?" Take time to listen to Him (& His revelation). He is your Revelator. He's always here, and He's always willing to speak to you. Revelation is like your tv screen (you receive, see, and hear). But you need an 'antenna', a working one & a well-tuned one, to receive. The 'antenna' is like your spirit. The wave/frequency can always be around the tv, but it takes your ‘antenna’ to be in tune in order to receive.

How? Stop getting 'distracted' (Luke 10:40-42). The word 'distraction' in Luke 10:40 actually means ‘dragging around & around’, like a dog chasing its tails. It symbolizes the ‘old cycles’ in your life. God wants to break your ‘old cycles’ of distraction, so you can enter into the new! People of God, it's time to 'sit down & be still' for a moment, and feed/receive from Him (like Mary). Take time to worship, feed from the Word, and go deeper in prayer. Jehoshaphat did just that (and he called a fast) when he found out that his enemies were too overwhelming for his nation Judah (2 Chronicles 20:3). It's no wonder why Jehoshaphat received specific revelation from the Lord (2 Chronicles 20:17, 20-22), and Judah won easily against its enemies!