A Word to Leaders

Leaders! I wanted to share this word of wisdom with you. It's through Prophetess Karen Pina, a proven vessel whom God placed in my life some years ago. Heed the words of Holy Spirit through her and LIVE!

In light of all that's going on with high-profile leaders right now, the body needs to hear Yahweh's voice and heart for all leaders. In prayer this morning, Yahweh spoke this to me, and before sharing this, I preface it by saying, "This is not aimed at any specific leader."

 

Will you continue on the ancient path that wicked men have walked?

Everywhere you turn leaders are being ousted for sexual sins. At the same time, these leaders don't possess David's spirit. You see, when they are confronted with their sin, they lie, deny, and in some cases even crucify the one who confronts and inquires. The hearts of many leaders are surely wicked, and they are not turned to Yahweh (God).  These men and women are not after Yahweh's heart, but are after the lusts of the flesh, the pride of life, and the lusts of the eyes.

Because they are not quick to confess and repent, they are snatched away before their time and their foundations are washed away like a river (Job 22:16).  Instead of running to Yahweh to be cleansed of their sin, they say, "Leave us alone, God (Job 22:17)!"

Oh what a tangled, deceptive web Satan laid that entrapped them in uncleanness and bondage.

"So any person who knows what is right to do but does not do it, to him it is sin." - James 4:16 AMP

In some instances, it's simply man choosing wrong over right. When man chooses man-made glory over Yahweh's glory, they end up walking on the same ancient path that wicked kings before them walked. Will you continue on the ancient path that wicked men have walked (Job 22:15 HCSB)?

If you need ordained direction and support back to your foundation, we are here and we are a confidential anointed safe space in which you can get free and experience His glory (i.e., His power, character, and nature) once again. 

Blessed and happy and to be envied are those whose iniquities are forgiven and whose sins are covered up and completely buried. - Romans 4:7 AMP

If you're going to cover your sins, you don't need Him to cover them, and He can't cover what you conceal. Come clean to be cleansed, beloved.  He's waiting with open, merciful, loving arms of atonement and forgiveness. The fallout of sexual sin is devastating. It ruins marriages, families, lives, ministries, churches, and elections and callings unnecessarily. There is an option, and it is honest confession and true repentance. How many casualties will you take with you by continuing on the ancient path of wicked kings? Unharden your heart and hear His voice (Hebrews 4:7).

If these words resonate and you need a way back to your foundation, you can reach Prophetess Karen and her husband Apostle Stanley at www.GODSCoach.com.

Many blessings.

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Bleeding on Facebook

I've read plenty of Facebook statuses that make me shake my head and leave me asking why. What's particularly grievous is when leaders bleed all over Facebook. I've asked myself many times, isn't there someone offline they can talk to about that?

Pastor Lisa  examines those who are bleeding on social media networks like Facebook. Finish reading article here. 

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Finish Well

Pastor Perry Noble of Newspring Church is hosting a one-day re-awakening just for pastors. Pastors dealing with depression and on the verge of burnout.

ReAwaken Promo from NewSpring Media on Vimeo.

This is the Body of Christ at its best...helpers one to another.

Blessings everyone.

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No Time to Dance A Jig

 Yesterday's post got me to thinking. You can read it here and catch up for this discussion. Jesus underwent a great deal of stress in the Garden of Gethsemane. He asked if a Plan B could be implemented because the task ahead of Him was going to be the death of Him...and it would be a slow and agonizing death.

I thought about Him.

I thought about His plea...if it's possible...please let this cup pass from me. He knew bringing about salvation was not going to be easy. He was about to pay for the sins of mankind. The punishment that was rightfully yours and mine; He took and at first He struggled.

I thought about Him and the moment He said...not my will...but your will be done. I know that feeling when you accept what must be done and set your mind to just do it knowing it will probably be the most difficult thing you ever do in your life.

After He aligned His will to the Father's and began to act out the redemptive plan...you didn't hear much from Him. The prophet Isaiah said:

He was oppressed and He was afflicted,
Yet He did not open His mouth;
Like a lamb that is led to slaughter,
And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers,
So He did not open His mouth.

Which brings me to this point. Jesus didn't dance a jig to Calvary. He didn't turn around to the Roman soldiers flogging him and say praise the Lord, I'm paying the price for your salvation! He didn't cry out hallelujah they just pierced me in the side. Instead He cried out from the cross...My God...why have you forsaken me?


It was because of the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, was despised and shamed. Where was the joy? On the other side.

Why then do we harass people clearly going through a night season to praise their way out? There is no shabach that will hurry you through the process; Jesus had to go through all of it. I offer that our act of obedience becomes our worship and our surrender speaks of a heart that adores God and puts Him first.

The bible tells us that there is a time for everything. There's a time to weep and a time to laugh. There's even a time to mourn and a time to dance.

You have to let people go through their night season and we all know...weeping endures for a night, but joy comes in the morning. You can't force daybreak. It comes at the appointed time. Just remember to show grace and not condemn those who may come to your church and not turn over the pews when the praise is in high gear.

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Let Him Test It!

What's released when heat is applied?

In a recent marketing video, I talked about how campaigns and design pieces should be tested. In that video I mentioned that even God himself doesn't release a thing until it's been tested. As leaders we can't be quick to release those serving with us without proper testing no matter how great the need.

Character, faithfulness, spiritual soundness and maturity, are all things that come under scrutiny during testing. Testing demands that one proves what they know and that they are who they say they are. Testing exposes weak areas and then those weak areas are submitted and yielded to Holy Spirit for strengthening through prayer and fasting.

Before next levels...there is usually a time of proving. Jesus was led to the wilderness by Holy Spirit for testing. (Luke 4). Upon successful completion of that test, then He was released into public ministry. Spiritual leaders then must be observant and willing to wait. Leaders must ask:

• How do those up for promotion handle pressure (i.e. trials and adversity)?
• Do they complain or are they prayerful? 
• Has their attendance increased or decreased during this time of testing? 
• Has their praise and worship taken a noticeable hit? 
• Has there been a decrease in their giving (time and finances)?
• Do they "heed sound doctrine?" In other words are they teachable, receptive to Holy Spirit's wisdom through you as their leader?

This is the kind of information you need before the ordination and a time of testing will always tell. Allow Holy Spirit to do the work then be observant, be patient and know that God will with hold no good thing from you. That includes sending able-bodied ministers to help you carry the vision. Take nothing at face value and allow Holy Spirit to test their readiness for you.

Whether its a marketing campaign or minister in your congregation...it shouldn't be released without first being thoroughly tested. 

Blessings everyone!

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When London Calls

Big Ben, London, England

A dear friend of mine called me to say that she received a ministry invitation from a ministry in London, England. They visited her Web site and extended an invitation for her to come speak at a conference. The first thing ministers do is check the validity of the ministry. There are lots of scams out there. Unfortunately when you get an email from Africa or India chances are it's a scam. But this time a ministry from London came calling and the ministry was legitimate. We followed links all over the Internet and confirmed this was a real church, with real people and a real pastor.

They offered to pay hotel/airfare and provide ground transportation and a sizable honorarium. All she had to do was apply for a work visa or work permit. Once that had been completed they would wire three-fourths of the honorarium to her.

Something still didn't sound right so we asked a third party. A minister who has traveled internationally told us it didn't quite sound right. That she had a similar offer once before but it didn't fall through.

Come to find out it was a scam.

What these people want is your personal information.

They don't want you to come and bring the glory of God to London.

They find legitimate churches and ministries and pretend to be extending you an invitation on their behalf.

They know all the right things to say.

The offer very nice honorariums. Very nice.

They even create very nice conference themes with dynamic topics for you to minister from. 

But there are a couple of things that tipped off our international minister.

• The email address to the government agency in London was a gmail account. Government addresses in London end in .gov.uk.
• There was no office phone to contact. Every phone number was a direct cell number. My friend tried to call and was not able to reach anyone.
• The conference was just a month away. Who does this? Scammers. They want to create a sense of urgency and hopefully disengage good sense long enough for you to remit your valuable personal information.

I know you were aware of the Africa and India scams. Well here's one more coming out of the United Kingdom. Use wisdom, ask somebody else if you're unsure and always follow-up! My friend is going to contact the church in London and let them know scammers are using their ministry as a cover!

As always, be blessed ministers of God!
 

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Here's what to do

In a moment of frustration, I posted on my Facebook page, my mounting frustration about what I was hearing come across the pulpit in the name of the Lord. Some of it is truly the spirit of error at work; but not so in every case. Sometimes it's due to lack of knowledge. By the end of that post, I was ready to confront and ask for notes and references. But then Holy Spirit reminded me that this is not new and a best practice for handling this type of situation already existed in scripture.

And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly. - Acts 18-24-26

Leader to leader
A minister I know told me about a relative of hers who thought it her business to correct ministry leaders. She held no prophetic office and was determined on delivering what she believed to be the word of the Lord. Some actually entertained what she had to say. What this person did not know is that a best practice had already been established. According to scripture, this type of correction comes from one ministry leader to another.

Aquila and Priscilla were missionaries and traveled with the Apostle Paul. Church tradition says that this husband and wife team were a part of the 70 that Jesus sent out according to Luke chapter 10. So we see established leaders listening to a dynamic message from a very eloquent man but obviously lacking in a doctrinal truth. When they heard this, it became their responsibility to correct in love and show the better way.

I wouldn't try it 
David was fleeing Jerusalem when Shimei hurled curses and insults upon David in 2 Samuel 16. Without further reading, it  appears that his actions were met with God's approval. Scroll down to chapter 19 and we find Shimei repenting to David and pleading for his life. Shimei admitted his guilt, said he knew he had sinned and went to meet David and repented. Eventually Shimei was killed by King David's son Solomon for blatant disobedience. A poignant story that reminds us of God's order in the Kingdom and reveals the heart of those who buck against that order.

Again, correction of a leader should always come from another leader.

Oh they'll eventually get it is not acceptable
Aquila and Priscilla did not let Apollos remain in the dark concerning God's truth about Jesus Christ. It was more important that Apollos declare the full counsel of this gospel message. That is all that mattered. Here is where church leaders today can take note. It's not enough to see your fellow co-laborer missing an important truth. The notion of, "Oh they'll eventually get it," is not the will of the Father. To my surprise, some allow those who pull in large crowds to teach in error because of the money that also comes with large crowds.

This ought not be so!

To complain, to talk about and not offer correction to a minister who is lacking knowledge or truth is unacceptable.

There's a right way and wrong way
Notice another best practice for us here in this text. They did not confront Apollos in the middle of his message. They did not "call him out" if you will in front of the other synagogue leaders. They took him and privately showed him the way of God more perfectly.

This is a best practice solution for handling fellow ministry leaders who lack some eternal truth and need to be shown the better way. Dealing with false teachers and prophets and confronting the spirit of error is another post altogether. Holy Spirit will definitely lead and guide you in this area if you ask Him too. Don't get frustrated, Holy Spirit just may want to use you to enlighten and reveal truth. A true vessel will consider your words and take them to heart. Remember sons of God receive correction!

May God give you wisdom and grace to contend for the faith!

Blessings to you all!

Pastor Lisa

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Leadership thought of the day

Elisha served Elijah till the end even though he was hard-pressed to give up early.

He was determined to see his master through till the end.

He would complete his assignment and not even the prophet’s suggestion of ending early dissuaded him.

Because he pressed through to the end; Elisha received a double portion of his master’s anointing.

The lesson here is to continue to the very end. Only let the Lord separate you and promote you and receive the double portion.

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Do you hear what I hear?

Now when Joshua heard the sound of the people as they shouted, he said to Moses, "There is a sound of war in the camp."
But he (Moses) said,

"It is not the sound of the cry of triumph, Nor is it the sound of the cry of defeat; But the sound of singing I hear." Exodus 32:17-18 NASB

The purpose of a mentor, a spiritual parent is to help you develop your ear; sharpen your discernment. Joshua served faithfully under Moses until Moses died and it was time to take the Children of Israel over into the promise land.

During Joshua’s early training, he and Moses along with 70 others were on a mountain receiving the commandments from God.


A noise from the Hebrew camp arose and Joshua heard the sound of war.

Moses had to tell him, no what you hear is the sound of singing.

This was a lesson in proper discernment and on hearing correctly.

And what a valuable lesson.

Joshua, a man of war, discerned the noise through his combat filter. Moses helped him realize that was not the case and Joshua grew as a leader that day.

Had Moses not instructed Joshua, he would have went storming down the mountain ready for war and looked very foolish!

Man and woman of God, allow Holy Spirit to develop your spiritual hearing and discernment through your leader. If you submit to this training, God can then magnify you before those you serve and save you from foolish mistakes.

Many blessings,
Pastor Lisa

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Better not Bitter

Things happen.

Things happen that puzzle us, confuse us, frustrate us. Life and ministry throw curve balls. It happens to the best of us. Then sometimes we make mistakes. Big ones.

It's how we handle those failures and disappointments that shape our character.

King David had some bad stuff happen. While he was out taking care of business, some folk came along and kidnapped his family and took his stuff. They even kidnapped the families of those who were working with him. What thoughts would run across your mind if you're out taking care of God's business and you come back and realize all you have is gone?

There was talk of killing David but scripture says David encouraged himself in the Lord.

David recovered all and from the number of Psalms attributed to him, I would conclude that he became better and not bitter.

When things don't go the way we planned, when we fail miserably, when we're embarrassed by those failures, when our name is dragged through the mud, at that very moment you have the choice of being better for the experience or bitter.

Many of us become bitter.

We don't see our part in the ordeal.

Maybe we rushed ahead of God, maybe we heeded unwise counsel, maybe we didn't count up the cost, maybe we refused to see; whatever the reason becoming bitter is a dangerous option.

Bitterness will espouse new doctrines to support itself. That bitterness reframes our teaching, our ministry, it taints the table we spread before the people.

In order to be better it means owning whatever part we played in the situation and then asking for forgiveness and then forgiving ourselves.

Good leaders own their mistakes, learn from them and become better.

Man and woman of God choose to be better, not bitter.

Lifting you in prayer,

Pastor Lisa

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Not Yours! Mine!

Shortly after my husband and I began serving as pastors, I heard the Lord say, "You have no people; I have people."

I had to respond in the words of my sister, "You sho' right."

Being called to lead is a call to serve.

It's a call to serve His people.

His Word declares:

Tend (nurture, guard, guide, and fold) the flock of God that is [your responsibility], not by coercion or constraint, but willingly; not dishonorably motivated by the advantages and profits [belonging to the office], but eagerly and cheerfully; Not domineering [as arrogant, dictatorial, and overbearing persons] over those in your charge, but being examples (patterns and models of Christian living) to the flock (the congregation). And [then] when the Chief Shepherd is revealed, you will win the conqueror's crown of glory. -1 Peter 5:2-4 (Amplified Bible)

The people that we serve, the leadership staff that serves along with us are not pawns in a personal rise to the top or self-proclaimed quest to go to the nations. They are not stepping stones to "next levels/dimensions."

The people we serve are souls; precious souls which Jesus Himself gave His life. As leaders we watch for their souls according to Hebrews 13:17. When we lose this focus, when those around us are only valuable if they can advance our cause or agenda and are dismissed if they don't serve our purpose; then we find ourselves in a very dangerous place.

It's time to do a heart check.

As leaders we have to guard our hearts (Proverbs 4:23) against pride and fleshly agendas. We are commanded to love the Lord with all our heart, with all our soul and all our mind. When we fall out of love with our Savior, what is sacred becomes profane and we mishandle the holy. Touch not my anointed also refers to those in the pews; not just those in leadership positions.

When Holy Spirit gives gifts to men it is for the perfecting of the Body; not our personal desires or aspirations. When personal agendas skew your perspective, it's time to pray. It's time to return to our first love which is Jesus Christ.

Leaders, you have no people. They're not yours. They belong the Father. You belong to the Father and will be judged on how you handle them. Don't forget, we are called to serve and advance a spiritual kingdom; never our own.

God is saying, not yours...mine!

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Jezebel New & Improved!

Pastors! Leaders!

There is a spirit loose that seeks to monopolize your time, your energy and your resources. This spirit manifests itself as helpless and needy. But once it draws you in, it is the furthest thing from helpless or needy. Instead it is strong-willed, stubborn, unrepentant, controlling and manipulative. It's Jezebel...new and improved for the 20th century church.

A few facts about Jezebel:

• Married Ahab king of Israel (1 Kings 16:31)
  
• FAITHFUL idol worshiper (1 Kings 16:31)
• Enemy of God and His prophets (1 Kings 18:4; 1 Kings 19:1-2)
  
• Murderer and master manipulator (1 Kings 22:6-15)
  
• Unwilling to repent (Revelations 2:20)

This manifestation of Jezebel comes to you hurt and wounded and seeks your counsel and wisdom. They say they desire deliverance; they say they want healing. Oh if this were only true! In Revelations chapter two, the word declares that Jezebel calls herself a prophetess; this is what she calls herself and not what Holy Spirit has declared. So Jezie comes with a self-proclaimed title and a seat in the church.

What this new and improved manifestation of Jezie wants is YOU. She wants your time, she wants your anointing, she wants your attention all of the time. She wants to distract you from the work you were called to do.

The moment you start to pour, you'll discover that the issues are many and deep. There is layer after layer, each more offensive and putrid than the next. You'll pray, you'll minister and eventually the word repent will surface. But that word is rejected. Instead Jezie will continue her tirade of a past deemed unfair and you realize there is no end to the drama. Before you know it; you're spent. Jezie got what she wanted. You. She tied you up and now you're consumed.

Jezie has no regard for your calling. She only seeks to monopolize your time with God, family and the body of Christ. She'll drain you of your resources spiritually and naturally. Ministering to Jezie is equivalent to taking the talent Holy Spirit placed in you and burying it in dry, infertile ground. You'll never see fruit because Jezie is unwilling to repent. She wants to stop the move of God in the earth; she's sent to stop the advancement of the Kingdom through you. Healing is not her goal. Wholeness is not her desire.

Leaders don't be fooled by the shroud of meekness and helplessness! This manifestation pulls at your heart because you truly don't want to see God's people wounded. You desire they walk in healing and wholeness.

Holy Spirit once showed me myself bent over in a corner trying to console this loud, whiny, obnoxious thing. It would not be consoled! The more I tried to help, the louder it became. Holy Spirit slowly stood me straight up and I turned around with a strong awareness that there was something else I needed to tend too. And it wasn't the loud, whiny thing in the corner demanding my attention. It was a distraction. The real work, the greater work was elsewhere and I needed to focus on that.

So today I offer this prayer on your behalf.

I pray that when this manifestation of Jezebel calls your phone, walks in your church, or sends you a friend request, that alarms, bells and whistles go off in your spirit! I pray that you walk in wisdom and hear God clearly and proceed only as He leads. I pray you see and discern on greater levels! And if you're caught in Jezie's web I pray for your immediate release right now in Jesus' name!

There's work to do man and woman of God.

Don't get thrown by Jezie's new manifestation.

It's something old wrapped in something not so new.

Be blessed,

Pastor Lisa

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You Really Should Get Out More

Being a new pastor with a new ministry to look after, we sometimes can pigeon hole ourselves and narrow our vision to just our local church. It happens. Especially if you're currently independent and not connected to an organization.

Last year, my husband and I made the commitment to get out more. The ministry receives hundreds of unsolicited emails from marketing firms who added us to their lists without our consent (yes, this is a pet peeve of mine...lol). They promote all kinds of events; from church plays to prophetic conferences and end-time revivals. So where do we go?

One, trust Holy Spirit to lead. Last month, I received an email from someone I knew about an upcoming event. I forwarded the email to my beloved and suggested we go. What a phenomenal experience! The word says that if we acknowledge Him in all of our ways, He'd direct our paths. There's so much to glean and benefit when we fellowship. Sometimes it's a lesson on what not to do that's equally beneficial. But most times, it's a beautiful display of the body of Christ working as one just like Jesus prayed in John 17.

Part of the blessing of connecting with other believers, especially those who may worship different than you, is that you get a clearer picture of just how big God is. You understand that God is GLOBAL and that kingdom business is WORLDWIDE. Fellowship with other kingdom-minded believers force you to broaden your concept of ministry. Yes we're called to a local ministry but through fellowship, you see how it's all connected by the same Spirit and your ministry fits into God's much bigger plan. It's awesome.

So this year, ask Holy Spirit to lead you. Get out more! It will bless you!

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Heads up!

Every once in awhile at NPNC, we come across great word for leaders by different authors. Prophetess Karen Pina has graciously agreed to let us feature an article that is sure to enlighten! Enjoy!
_________________________________________

When you are the real deal, people come out of the wood works trying to get you to hear God for them on their supposedly God-ordained projects. Then you tell them what God says and it's not what they want to hear because they and their projects are filled with compromise.

So many in the body of Christ want you to relate to them the way they want you to relate to and with them and not the way God intends. Search your relationships; revisit the original intent and purposes of why God allowed you to come into one another's life. If you see any signs of self-imposed veering off that original path, gently call a time out and redirect them/the relationship back onto God's course. If they cannot be redirected, they sure won't obey God in keeping to the original intents and purposes of the relationship or projects.

It's time to shift out of using relationships for what we want, think, and can get out them into what God desires/wants in relationships. This is the way to truly connect with others. When we try to force our will and desire upon the relationship, we rob God of glory and others of genuine fellowship,

One more thing when/if the season of the assignment/purpose is over, and God has released you or the other person, exert wisdom and let it go. When you try to hold on to someone beyond the assignment/purpose, you are operating in witchcraft (defined as the bending/twisting of the will). When God will is done in the relationship, don't tamper, manipulate, coerce, desire, or force anyone to stay.

Now there are some relationships that will transcend the assignment/purpose into deeper fellowships of brotherly love and deep friendships. How we praise God for these! At the same time, every relationship can't and won't fall into this category. It's time to discern the difference between the two.

Recently, I had to manage a couple of folk who were operating in witchcraft, emotional blackmail, guilt, and what I have come to call "Word whoopings" (i.e, using scripture to beat you, accuse you, and provoke you to a certain response).

Here are some tips to help you:

1) Set boundaries by asking yourself and them

What is the purpose of this call, visit, e-mail? Who sent you? How can I serve you? Once you have clarity on this, serve, meet the need, and move on to the next need/assignment. Naturally if they were not sent by God, your approach will be different. What I've learned to do is ask God, "How do you want me to deal with this distraction from hell?" Listen and heed what He says and do it! Now, you know they will most likely call, e-mail, or visit again, repeat this asking/listening process until they flee.

2) Limit access: (i.e., contact information)

I don't know about you but I'm a busy bride . . . always about my Father's business. I don't have time for time wasters, professing powerless Christians, mundane, mediocre and moldy agendas, bullheadedness, roots of resistance, striving, and worry. When I see this stuff oozing out the spirit of folks, I limit the access they have to me, and so should you. When you've given the Word time and time again, and they resist God, why do they need direct access to you when they won't allow God direct access to the "stuff" they keep holding onto?

3) Put it writing

It is written! As God leads consider putting your purpose, assignment and release in writing. This way everyone is clear about God intents, purpose, and His timely release. I don't want good to be spoken of as evil. When folks can't manipulate or coerce you, they retaliate by committing murder with their mouths and actions. When it is in writing, you have established God's heart, purpose, and the truth nothing but the truth so help you God. There are some folks who thrive off ministry bashing, name destroying, and love to keep some stuff going in ministry. Truly, this is about the only excitement they have. Because God's glory is nowhere around, they conjure up attention and excitement the only dysfunctional way they know how. You've told them time and time again, everything is okay, you are forgiven, etc., but as sure as your name is ___________, they are going to make it something that it is not. Who have they been listening to? Certainly, not God.

True ministry leaders, this is your heads up from Holy Spirit! Everyone wants to cling to the real deal; it's your role to discern why and what for.

I want to serve the LORD in the beauty of holiness. How about you? Unity dwells in the beauty of holiness. When we seek God in our interactions (what to say, when to call, what not to say) with others in the body, strife and contention cease. The bible clearly tells us in James that quarrels, arguments, and fights stem from our own lusts. So, if you are always upset with a particular ministry leader God brought into your life, find out what you are lusting for and you will have identified the root of the source of struggle and contention. God told me this today: I assure you all is well, nothing is missing, nothing is broken, and wholeness abounds in all relationships established by the Kingdom of God. Stay away from folk who find something wrong with every project, everything, everybody, and every ministry. They are in league with and committed allegiance to the demonic spirit named: Wrong Focus!

For then [changing their impure language] I will give to the people a clear and pure speech from pure lips, that they may all call upon the name of the Lord, to serve Him with one unanimous consent and one united shoulder [bearing the yoke of the Lord]. - Zephaniah 3:9 AMP

For then will I turn to the peoples a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the LORD, to serve Him with one consent. Zeph 3:9 Tanakh

Heads up: This time is now, and it is time to be united with those who serve with one unanimous consent, purpose, with pure speech calling on the LORD out of pure heart, and those who are bearing the LORD’s yoke, not their own yoke.

It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. John 6:63 KJV

It is the Spirit who gives life, the flesh is no help. The words I have spoken to you are Spirit and life, - John 6:63 The Complete Jewish Bible

With wisdom, glory, and riches,

Prophetess Karen

© Gifts Ordained by Direction/Karen M. Pina 2009

Brief Bio

KAREN M. PINA

International coach trainer, author, and minister Karen M. Pina has been creatively writing for over 15 years. She is author of the well-received Leadership FITness - Experiencing Fullness in The Temple, Is it the job, the boss, you . . . or are you an entrepreneur?, The Making, creator of the One-Stop Marketing Program, and founder of Gifts Ordained by Direction and GOD’s Coach U, a training and coaching practice. She is the virtuous wife of Stanley Pina, a leadership coach and pastor. They live in Connecticut where they raise two beautiful daughters.

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We are unable to comply with your request

Recently, a well-known comedian was interviewed on Christian TV and he had a request of the people of God, the Christian community. He asked us to "broaden the little white line" because there were lots of cats who wanted to be a Christian; only if it were not for that little white line.

Sorry, the remnant is unable to comply with your request.

First, the line is not ours to broaden and woe to them who have attempted to do so! This is called compromise and the reason I believe for so many profane things being named among God's people and foolishness taking place in God's house. I believe compromise breeds Christians who are still unsure about how they feel about Jesus and lack commitment after spending years in the church.

Matthew 7: 13-14 says, "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." KJV

The little white narrow line has been painted by God himself. We all have to enter the Kingdom the same way - on the little white narrow line. The young rich ruler struggled with the white line when Jesus told him that he lacked one thing. In order to be perfect, he - the young ruler - needed to sell all that he had and give to the poor. Scripture says the young man went away sorrowful because he was a wealthy man.

The attack on holiness is real.

The allure to compromise is great and the benefits appear tantalizing but succumbing to these lies continue to strip the church of power and effectiveness!

We must continue to stand for holiness, preach the little white line till Jesus comes back for His bride, pure and undefiled!

People who live in countries hostile to Christianity make the life or death decision to serve Jesus and give up everything to serve Him all the time. Some are tortured, some are disowned by their families for taking on the name of Jesus, and some even die. They don't ask that the little white line be broadened to accommodate their situations. They bear their cross and have made the decision to live and to die for Jesus. The apostles after having being beat and stoned, praised God because they had been found worthy to suffer shame for the name of Christ. They went away rejoicing.

Peter told Jesus, we have left everything to follow you. Jesus then replied there is no man who has given up all these things that won't receive many times over in this life and the life to come.

Jesus said to count the cost; evaluate what it will take for you to serve Jesus exclusively and then make the decision. If the something or someone else means more, no commitment will be made. The call to discipleship always requires a forsaking, a denial of the life you once knew. If you're not ready, you're just not ready.

Broadening the little white line does little to produce Christians who are uncompromising and unwavering in their faith. It creates a mess for the Body of Christ.

So the request to broaden the little white line is declined.

It's not ours to broaden and broad roads lead to death and destruction.

I encourage you to seek out that narrow white line and find life everlasting.

Keep preaching the little white line,

Pastor Lisa

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A Few Things I've Learned

As we come to the end of another year, I've been reflecting on all the lessons I learned. It has been a year of tremendous growth! That growth came much like the struggle of the butterfly out of its cocoon and now my family and the ministry have emerged into this thing of beauty.

I wanted to share two things Holy Spirit revealed this year in regard to ministry.

The first is to realize that a move of God occurs in many different ways. I know sometimes God will move among us in such a profound way that that particular movement becomes the pinnacle and we box God into moving that way everytime. I remember reading once that many worship the form or idea of worship and lose sight of the Savior in the process. I know this much, that God is a God of variety! So what He desires from one Sunday to the next is certain to vary. And if God's people collectively worship in Spirit and Truth, then you have had a move of God! Don't box God in...period! Remember we are not looking for sensationalism but a worship experience that honors the Holy One and changes us in the process!

The second thing God revealed was in regard to counseling. There are certain behaviors that are textbook. Meaning the thought process of an abusive spouse, the mindset of the abused have been thoroughly noted in books, articles, research papers and so on. Even though some things are textbook, each situation is different and must be dealt with accordingly. There are no cookie-cutter solutions. You must take the time to truly listen and hear Holy Spirit for direction. To presuppose and dispense instruction without fully understanding the particulars for that case leads to error and disappointment. So while some of the symptoms may indeed be textbook, how you respond and give counsel should vary from person to person. It's so easy to get caught up in the fact that we've seen this before and here's how to handle it. Give each situation the prayer and wisdom of the Holy Spirit called for.

I hope you benefit from the lessons I learned this year and feel free to share your own in the comments section below.

Stay encouraged men and women of God!

Pastor Lisa

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The Gift of Time Off

Man and woman of God, did you know that the nation recognizes and appreciates you during the month of October?

I didn't either! I discovered this fact about two years ago.

A good friend of mine recently blogged that being a pastor was the second most stressful job a person could have. Dentistry topped the list if you were curious.

So if you have not heard it already, let me say that I appreciate your allowing God to use you to serve His people. I appreciate you as a co-laborer of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For all you have endured, all you go through, for standing for holiness and righteousness, for all you pour out, and for all you sacrifice, I appreciate you!

This same friend of mine is currently running a blog series entitled, Just Say It. It's all the things pastors wish they could say to their congregation but wait for out-of-town evangelist to do so. You can read the series at www.deannashrodes.com.

One of the best ways a congregation can appreciate their leaders and their families is with time off. Yes, rest! It is so true that unless one is a leader, people have no idea of what you go through and endure on a daily basis. That is why rest and time away is the gift that keeps on giving.

My husband and I have served as pastors for four years and we have not taken time off, yet. Understand that for the church plant, the ministry with 30 people or less, this is difficult to do. Not impossible, just challenging.

Time off is not optional, it is a requirement and preferably outside the city you serve!

You need time with your spouse!

You need time with your family!

And then you need time for you.

I realized this as my body began to revolt from the stress of it all.

Downtime is needed for your health and sanity. And if you are like me and the other millions of Americans who have trouble sleeping because the mind refuses to shut down; you really need to unplug.

I could run down a list of pastors who in their prime, 30s and 40s, died suddenly because they didn't take care of themselves.

Jesus and the disciples even took a moment or two to rest. Mimic your elder brother Jesus Christ and take a moment to exhale!

With October being the month to appreciate clergy, I have the perfect suggestion for those scouring the Internet trying to find the perfect gift for their leaders -- paid time off! Put the family up in a hotel for a weekend outside the city! Do it frequently so that the man and woman of God can continue to pour.

Pastors, bishops, apostles, prophets, evangelists, elders; you are appreciated today. My prayer is that peace overtake you, favor find you and rest restores you.

You deserve it.

Love you much,

Pastor Lisa

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What's with the Long-Handled Spoon?

Moses was responsible for leading some three million people upon their exodus from Egypt. No doubt this was a daunting task. Moses would spend his day hearing the matters of all the people and consulting God on their behalf. His father-in-law Jethro told him that it was not good nor was it healthy to continue to lead the people in that manner. According to Exodus 18, Jethro instructed Moses to do the following:

1. Teach the people the ordinances and statutes of God; in other words, show them how to walk.
2. After teaching the people, Moses was to appoint men, not just anyone but men who 1) fear God, 2) are truthful and 3) are not covetous or who take bribes to assist him in governing the people.

Because Moses followed the instruction of his father-in-law, he was able to concentrate on weightier matters and hear from God. Moses had to delegate or outsource his tasks. He needed able bodies to help carry the vision. So he taught the people and sent them out to carry out the business of governing the people of Israel. It was near impossible for Moses to have personal contact with approximately three million people.

Elijah and Elisha - Elisha left his family to become Elijah’s servant and attend to his needs. He watched his teacher, learned from him and when we see Elijah taken up to heaven, Elisha calls him, “My father, my father.” This speaks of more than just teacher-student relationship. Their relationship evolved into that of father and son like we see in the New Testament.

Jesus and the Apostles - Jesus hand selected 12 men to be his disciples. He ate with them, taught them, empowered them, sent them out, got frustrated with them, and encouraged them. This type of leadership is very hands on. It’s the kind of relationship you have with those who will succeed you. You pour into them, you teach, you correct, and in the end, you have people who are committed and passionate about the God-inspired vision and purpose.

Paul and his sons Timothy and Titus - The Apostle Paul was a father figure to Timothy and Titus. He instructed them, prayed for them, spent time with them and eventually sent them out to take care of Kingdom business.

Jonathon and David - These two men were friends and brothers. Jonathon knew David would eventually take the throne one day from his father Saul so he prepared David for the palace. Again this was an intimate relationship. This wasn’t David paying Jonathon $1500 for a Learn How To Be King One Day course.

Wondering where I am going with this?

In the examples cited, the nature of the relationships was hands on. The teacher was involved in the life of his pupil. Paul knew Timothy’s mother and grandmother; he knew that Timothy was struggling as a leader because of his age and so on. Timothy and Titus were Paul’s spiritual sons and they interacted as such.

What I do not understand is how today’s spiritual leaders think they can teach and impart into spiritual sons and daughters and not be close or hands on if you will. I truly do not understand this. They want to lead this intimate group as if they are Moses dealing with millions. They have all kinds of buffers in place and levels of bureaucracy for a group of people with whom they are supposed to disciple, teach, and impart into. It makes about as much sense as me trying to rear my children while living on the moon.

It is a phenomenon that leaves many sons and daughters a bit lost and confused. They serve faithfully in a ministry, the call of God on their lives is evident and they are ignored by leadership or are fed with a long-handled spoon. Now these are not people who want to simply get what you have and are gone tomorrow; these are true sons and daughters.

If I had to speculate as to why this is so, I would guess unresolved hurt and insecurity to be the main enemies. Maybe they have no idea how to be a spiritual parent and so they avoid anything that would expose this perceived weakness. But what first time parent knows what they are doing? Some leaders surround themselves with an air of grandeur and self-importance even with their spiritual sons and daughters. It would be easier to call a meeting with the Secretary of State than to schedule face time with these leaders. Then some leaders have no intention of training a successor because the ministry is all about them anyway.

The biblical examples stated above were based on love. There was no abuse. Fathers and teachers poured into willing sons and students. They gave of themselves because they knew the call was bigger than their personal ministry. It really was about advancing the Kingdom of God; His purpose and His agenda. The passing of this Great Message from one generation to the next must continue and it is up to leaders to impart and empower those who will succeed them. And you can’t do that with a long-handled spoon.

Man and woman of God, don't be afraid of these God-ordained relationships that require high levels of intimacy. Will you get frustrated in the process? Yes. (Read about it here.) Will you always have the right answer? Probably not. But by pouring into those God has ordained to you, the Kingdom of God advances and in the end, that's all it's truly about.

Continue the good fight man and woman of God.

You're taking territory!

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The Church of Hophni and Phinehas

Now the sons of Eli were scoundrels who had no respect for the Lord or for their duties as priests. Whenever anyone offered a sacrifice, Eli’s sons would send over a servant with a three-pronged fork. While the meat of the sacrificed animal was still boiling, the servant would stick the fork into the pot and demand that whatever it brought up be given to Eli’s sons. All the Israelites who came to worship at Shiloh were treated this way. Sometimes the servant would come even before the animal’s fat had been burned on the altar. He would demand raw meat before it had been boiled so that it could be used for roasting.

The man offering the sacrifice might reply, “Take as much as you want, but the fat must be burned first.” Then the servant would demand, “No, give it to me now, or I’ll take it by force.” So the sin of these young men was very serious in the Lord’s sight, for they treated the Lord’s offerings with contempt. - 1 Samuel 2:12-17, New Living Translation

What has happened to the worship aspect of the offering in the House of God?

What is this thing that has become the norm?

Scripture tells us plainly how to bring our offering.

Paul tells us to give cheerfully and not grudgingly and not out of necessity. (2 Cor. 9:6-8)

Jesus even tells us that when we do good deeds, we should do so in secret. (Matt. 6:1-4)

So what is this auction style, public display style of giving that has entered God’s house?

God says, “I see and I am not pleased.”

For those unaware of this event it occurs like this. A minister will finish ministering and lift an offering; it could be the second offering of the service.

The minister will ask for a specific seed offering and ask those who will stand with him in giving this amount to either stand or lineup in the aisles. I have seen ministers give prophetic word to people as they come and bring this seed which really sends up red flags and gives the appearance that one is somehow paying for a prophetic word which is no different from paying the psychic to tell one’s future. We are commanded to abstain from the very appearance of evil! (I Thess. 5:19-22)

I have seen people bring their offering to the minister; they look at the amount, cross it out, and write a different offering amount on their envelope and the giver was told to bring that amount next time.

Then there is the guilt offering; completely different from the one in the book of Leviticus. This offering has everything to do with making you feel guilty because you are not in the $200 seed offering line. I was at an event and I had x amount of dollars to give. Way below the asking price of the traveling minister but I truly wanted to give and it was all I had. The minister went on to say that the price of wearing a clergy collar in his church was $100 in any offering he was lifting. Never mind if this was the first, second, or third service in a conference or revival. If he called for a $100 seed offering, those ministers were expected be in line; check in hand. He went on to say that he wanted everybody to give no less than $20 in that offering. The whole while he was talking, Holy Spirit and I were having a tug a war with the check I had written. He said, “Put it [the check] back in your purse.” Again, I was so blessed and wanted to give and went for my puny check and Holy Spirit very adamantly said, “Leave it in your purse!” So I didn’t give in that offering. I wanted too, but sensed Holy Spirit was truly offended.

It never ceases to amaze me how we can have such an awesome move of God and then immediately experience Ichabod – the glory departed – when it is time for offering. Why? Because the Church of Hophni and Phinehas is open and ready for business.

These sons of Eli made the Lord’s offering detestable. They demanded how they wanted the offering and in some instances took the offering by force and the bible says these two men caused the people to sin.

I fear the people of God have become immune to this behavior and that it is not an offering unless you have been coerced into giving which again goes against scripture. This behavior has taught believers not to even seek God beforehand on what to give in these special services. The demands will be made upon you when you get there. The flip side is that if these demands are not placed the offerings suffer; the people usually do not give. Why? Because the people of God have not been taught how to truly give, how to seek God and hear Him about giving and receive the benefits of giving as the word of God has commanded. We have a habit in our house of discussing the offering before we even leave for a service and we allow Holy Spirit to direct us. As ministers we have to teach people how to give, how to seek Holy Spirit for direction in their giving.

If a ministry is hosting a conference or revival, be honest with the people and make them aware of the costs of hosting the event. Tell them their financial support will ensure the event’s success and don’t tie their giving into their breakthrough, next level or deliverance. It is deceitful to do so. If the funds are not there, maybe the event has to be scaled down or that local Body of Believers seeks God for the miraculous.

Holy Spirit is demanding change because judgment is sure to fall.

It is time to bring the worship aspect back to our giving. It’s time to restore a holy reverence to this part of our worship experience.

It is time for ministers to truly teach the people of God what it means to give.

It is time to close down the Church of Hophni and Phinehas once and for all.

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The proper response to, "Oh my God you're so anointed!"

I won't let you make an idol out of me

It is a very awkward moment for some of us. You have just finished ministering when someone will inevitably track you down and declare these words, oh my God, you are SO anointed! And no, they just don't stop there, they keep hurling these accolades upon you and all the while you wish they would just stop. There are heart-felt thank yous from the people of God whose lives have been touched by your obedience. That's not what this blog is about. This blog is about the shift from thank you to all out worship.

The apostles Peter, Paul and Barnabus found themselves in similar situations. In the book of Acts, Cornelius went out to greet Peter and fell at his feet and worshiped him. (10:25-26) Peter corrected Cornelius by telling him to get up because he was a man just as he was.

Holy Spirit had just used Paul and Barnabus to heal a crippled man when pure mayhem ensued. The people so awestruck with the power of God using the two men, declared them gods and began to offer sacrifices to them. (14:8-19) What was their response? Paul and Barnabus tore their clothes and tried to disuade the people from idolizing them. Paul told them just as Peter told Cornelius, we are men just like you.

Herod while giving a speech in Acts 12:22-23, was struck down immediately because he did nothing when the people declared that his voice, was the voice of a god.

And practically unheard of today is the prophet Elijah refusing a lavish gift from Naaman after being healed of leprosy. (2 Kings 5:16)

What happens when we do not deflect these praises? We might actually believe our own hype. And the flesh only craves more attention, more praise; it is never satisfied. It is at this point the Gospel could be compromised and God's entire truth is neglected because men's praise become more important and we'll do whatever we must to get it.

Paul made it quite clear that he could have cared less about man's approval and was not out to please men. (Gal 1:10; 1 Thes 2:6) That would compromise the Gospel.

God help us as leaders not to be men pleasers but to bodly declare God's truths to His people no matter the cost.

So the proper response to, oh my God you are so anointed and mens worship is to deflect that worship back to the Father. Ask Holy Spirit for wisdom on how to stop it in the moment. Herod's refusal to act caused his demise. And scripture tells us that pride certainly comes before a fall. Refuse to become an idol because those same people who praised you will certainly stone you. It happened to Paul. They were sacrificing to him one minute and hurling rocks the next.

Refuse to become an idol so that the Gospel of Christ is not compromised.

Be encouraged beloved.

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