Being around people gives me energy. I thrive in social settings. Large gatherings leave me feeling alive. Being an extrovert has served me well in ministry over the years, as church leadership requires a certain level of social engagement. For me, there is nothing more satisfying than meaningful collaboration with like-minded people. Although I am … Continue reading Sacred Space
“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound…” ~Isaiah 61:1 Walking in the anointing of … Continue reading Walking In The Anointing
Recently, I received a text message from an old friend. Although the message was only two sentences long it jolted me in a good way. The words were powerful; tears filled my eyes instantly. It took me back in time to a meaningful experience I shared with someone I love. At that moment God reminded … Continue reading As Good As It Gets
Recently, I had a very vivid dream. Although I dream often, it is seldom that I wake up because the dream is so realistic that it startles me. However, on this particular night, I awoke feeling overwhelmed with the presence of God. I had tears in my eyes and a deep sense of joy in … Continue reading Dreaming Dreams
In middle school and part of high school, I was on the wrestling team. I was good at it. There was a technique rarely used called the “barbwire.” It became my finishing move. During that time I was consumed with wrestling. It was my identity. Later in high school, I took an interest in playing … Continue reading Identity Crisis
When Jesus died on the cross, he said, “It is finished.” The Bible teaches that Jesus then descended to the center of the earth, which is the holding place that the Hebrew text refers to as “Sheol” (Greek: “Hades”). In this place, Jewish literature teaches that there is a compartment set aside for the wicked … Continue reading Submission To Authority (Part 3)
God ordains authority. If you’re not submitting to the authority structures in your life you are opposing God’s will for your life. As long as you oppose God’s will for your life you’ll never walk in the fullness of God’s promises for your life. We are all in a fight; it’s a spiritual battle. We … Continue reading Submission To Authority (Part 2)
When my son, Jake, was a teenager he and I took Brazilian Jujitsu; he loved it (and was naturally good at it). Jujitsu is a grappling sport; meaning it’s a lot like wrestling, except instead of pinning someone, you’re trying to submit them. The workouts were intense; the first several weeks I thought I was … Continue reading Submission To Authority (Part 1)
Whenever God says something for the first time, He sets a precedent. When God sets a precedent, His ways are known forever. Scripture provides numerous examples of God setting a precedent with His people. The joy of discovering more profound revelation through the written Word is realizing that God’s promises toward us have always been … Continue reading Precedent Of Love
Spiritual discipline is the chief aim of the Christian life. Walking in step with the Holy Spirit is not optional—it is essential for anyone seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus. Yet in our modern world, we are constantly pulled toward the surface. Superficiality is our greatest distraction. Lack of depth is the curse of Western … Continue reading Spiritual Disciplines
Brian L Powell 