The Morning After: When Obedience Is Complete

I found this article today by Art Nelson and I thought I would share it with you. Since I just finished a 21-day Consecration for Obedience. We sometimes do things and not truly understand why God has placed it on our hearts. This article makes it very clear.

Introduction

In our modern church groups the issue of obedience is being played down. Everything is now grace, even as some say, “super grace”. God loves us so much that He has not only forgiven every trespass but has also “winked” at our disobedience and covered it with His grace. Is this really what the Bible says? Are we using grace as an excuse for our unwillingness to obey? Is our individual obedience actually that important in the larger scheme of things?

The Scriptures always present Truth in balance; that is, seemingly opposite things are both presented as correct. The reality is that there must be a tension, a balance between the two opposing truths. An example that I heard many years ago makes sense. This example says that our understanding of truth is like a pendulum that swings back and forth in an arc. As the Holy Spirit emphasized a particular aspect of truth, the pendulum swings in that direction. Eventually, the extreme is reached and the pendulum begins to swing back; however, instead of stopping at the balance point, it will swing toward the opposing truth to compensate.

This is true of grace and obedience. Both are true. However, much of what we are hearing in some of the televangelists sermons has taken grace to an extreme. The pendulum needs to swing back into balance. That is done by emphasizing obedience.

In this lesson we are not saying that grace is unimportant, or ineffective. We are saved by grace through. What we are saying in this lesson is that we have lost the proper perspective on God's requirement for obedience.
Importance of Obedience

With the lack of emphasis on obedience in our current Christian teaching the importance of obedience has diminished in our understanding. However, it has not diminished to the Lord. I am not talking about obedience to some form of law; but, instead, of obedience to the Spirit of the Lord. Here are a few scriptures that show the importance of obedience. Read these carefully and let the Holy Spirit open them to you.

John 3:36 NASB
"He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."

Romans 1:5 NASB
through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentilesfor His name's sake,

Romans 2:5-11 NASB
But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, (6) who WILL RENDER TO EACH PERSON ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS: (7) to those who by perseverance in doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life; (8) but to those who are selfishly ambitious and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, wrath and indignation. (9) There will be tribulation and distress for every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek, (10) but glory and honor and peace to everyone who does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. (11) For there is no partiality with God.

2 Thessalonians 1:8 NASB
dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.

Hebrews 5:9 NASB
And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation,

1 Peter 1:22 NASB
Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,

1 Peter 4:17 NASB
For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? As we can see from these verses God does not take our obedience lightly. We should remember that lawlessness and disobedience are linked together. Jesus said that not everyone who calls Him Lord will enter His Kingdom because He will tell those who practice lawlessness to depart. [Matthew 7: 21-23]

Why Obedience is Important

Since we have grace to cover our sins, why is obedience so important? To some it is not important because they feel that they have received their fire insurance and are, therefore, forever safe from judgment. But the real answer to this issue is hidden in the mysteries of God, and is revealed to us by the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 10:5-6 NASB
We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we aretaking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,(6) and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete.

From what Paul is telling the Corinthians, we can determine that there is some aspect of disobedience that can't be punished until our obedience is complete. What does that mean? Of course, in context here, Paul is speaking about the false teachers and apostles that were corrupting them and that they needed to become obedient to the word that he had ministered to them. However, I believe that there is also a larger context to what is being said.

God is not partial. When He punishes disobedience, all disobedience must be punished including the disobedience of the believer. It is not God's desire to punish His people in mass, so He is withholding some aspect of punishment for disobedience until His people can complete their obedience. Notice that it relates to “taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ”.
The Obedience of Christ

We know that Jesus was obedient to the Father in all ways and in all things because He only did what He saw the Father doing and He only said what He saw the Father saying. We say, “of course He was obedient, He was the Son of God”. However, we forget that He lived His earthly life as the Son of Man—a man filled with the Holy Spirit. The reason that He did that was so that He would be the Last Adam, the Second Man. (I Corinthians 15:45-47) He had emptied Himself of the attributes of God when He took on the form of a man.

Philippians 2:5-8 NASB
Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, (6) who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, (7)but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant,and being made in the likeness of men. (8) Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Jesus did not bring obedience with Him from Heaven; instead He became obedient. Obedience was something He learned.

Hebrews 5:8 NASB
Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered.

Because He learned obedience as the Son of Man, He can require obedience of those who would follow Him.

Hebrews 5:9 NASB
And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation,

John 14:15 NASB
"If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

[NOTE: The measure of our obedience is the measure of our love for the Lord.]

Why did Jesus have to learn obedience? It was necessary because of Adam's disobedience.

Romans 5:19 NASB
For as through the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous.

So, Christ Jesus overturned Adam's disobedience opening the way for judgment upon those who do not obey Christ but continue in disobedience. Only the obedient can judge the disobedient.

NOTE: I am not talking about someone who “never slips up” but one who is walking in a spirit of obedience, one with a desire to obey the Lord. Just as there is a spirit of lawlessness there is also a spirit of obedience.
Judging Disobedience

Now that we have covered the background information and laid a foundation of the importance of obedience, let's look at what it means to “punish all disobedience when your obedience is complete” as mentioned by Paul to the Corinthians. Besides the Corinthians, whose punishment for disobedience is being held back until our obedience is complete ?

1 Corinthians 6:2-3 NASB
Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? If the world is judged by you, are you not competent toconstitute the smallest law courts? (3) Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more matters of this life?

We have in these verses two categories of the disobedient that the saints will judge: the world and the angels. These cannot be judged until our (corporate) obedience is complete because only the obedient can judge the disobedient.

One of the purposes of Jesus coming as Messiah was to destroy the works of the devil [1 John 3:8]. This includes a righteous judgment on his disobedience. Through the obedience of Jesus, His death on the cross, and His sending of the Holy Spirit, “the ruler of this world has been judged” [John 16:11]. Judgment has been pronounced on the Devil; the sentence will be carried out and he will thrown into the Lake of Fire [Revelation 20:10]. But, what of the company of angels that rebelled against God with the Devil? Is is these that we, the corporate Body of Christ, will judge, for God is now ready to punish their disobedience when our obedience is complete.

21 - Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 21)

Well Day 21 and I am so full of emotions as I write this journal. So twenty one days ago I started this journey of 21 Days of concentrated obedience. This was the best journey I could have taken at this time. Obedience is so very important in this walk. I had lost sight of what true obedience. I knew that God wanted me to be obedient in every way but I still pick what areas I would obey. I pick how and when I would obey. I mean let's be real... no matter how you slice it, I wanted to be in control. I allowed fears, worries and doubt rule my life. Now I just want God to rule. I have learned to move out of the way. Now I have to put it into practice. It's time to walk it out not just because of this journey but because God has so much for me to do and it requires my COMPLETE obedience.

So let's talk about how I did on this journey... Here are the things I wanted to do on this journey:

1. Reading the word, not just studying it for sermons and counseling.

Well, I began a "Walk through the Bible" which means I am reading each book of the bible and really getting acquainted with the nuggets in the Bible. You know those things that you over look because when you are studying a certain topic you are concentrated on that thought process. Just reading the Bible for me opens me up to enjoy every morsel. It's been a while since I have just read the Bible for reading sake. I am finding a new love of the scriptures. Not only that I have notes and notes of things that popped out to me that I need to go back and study more. So the word is still speaking LOUD and clear to me. It's been very refreshing.

2. Eating right and losing some weight

As you know the first five days of this journey, I was fasting but now I am learning about eating foods that nourish my body and helps it operate as God intended. By the way, I also lost 10 lbs in the meantime. Yeah, Go Linda Go Linda. I was supposed to go to the Gym but I hate going alone so I never made it. however, I feel bad about it so I have decided to put myself on a 21 day to better exercising. Which means I will start going to the gym and doing some form of walking/cardio each day. Ya'll pray because it is alway easier for me to choose to do something different. 10K steps Monday - Friday. Here we go!

3. Forgiving those that have wronged me and seeking forgiveness from those that I have wronged.

Now this one was a bit harder for me. No one wants to admit they are wrong but I have had to take a long hard look at my actions and repent to God and those I have offended. More than that I had to release some grunges and resentments of my own. As God brought up things in my heart I had to face them and make them right. I thank God for his mercy and grace in this. I have never felt so much love from above than when I was dealing with forgiveness. Letting go is the best thing anyone can do. I noticed when foriveness is real, even my complexion and weight reflect it.

4. Staying faithful to my writing schedule

Another hard thing for me. I seem to let fear reign in this area a lot. Even writing these blogs have been a struggle for me. You know what it feels like when you have so much to say but you are not sure that people want to hear it. Then there are times I feel that I have nothing to say. My fear has paralyzed me in this area for years. I can always find reasons not to write. During this journey, I faltered in this are a lot. LOL do you remember the blank post? I had to go back and redo them... IJS! the fear is real ya'll. I had to repent almost daily. Even now I feel the tears coming to my eyes. However, I have resolved to plow through my fears and make this happen even it it means taking drastic measures. I will obey God in this area. I will, I will, I will, I am.

5. Being more consistent in every area of life

Prayer is the key. Seeking God and acknowledging Him regarding big and small decisions. To me trust was an issue for me. Trusting that God has it all in control and that He was concerned about what concerned me. During this process I now know that He is. He sees me. He chose me. So since I am chosen for this life, I can make it work. Through all the trials and hard times, I will be victorious. I will be exactly what God wants me to be and it will glorify Him. Jesus is truly the reason for this new season. It is a season of living a life of obedience and a fresh anointing is flowing my way to be an obedient child to my Lord and savior.

6. Being faithful to accomplishing daily, weekly and monthly goals

I learned several years ago, that goals have to be written or they are just dreams. The other thing I learned is you must do something everyday toward your long term goals or you ill never reach them. So setting daily, weekly and monthly even annual goals s always a hug part of my life. Where I really lacked was in time management. You think you can manage time until you have to manage time. I now now that I put alot of me and I really set myself up for failure because in 24 hours, most things I want to get done cant get done in the time alotted. So I would get overwhelmed and would just give up. Now I am learning less is more. But I also need to aks for help. Asksing for help is hard for me. However, giving up and failure is not an option... So i will learn how to be faithful and I will learn how to ask for help when needed. As a matter of fact I am looking for a personal assistant to help with my many projects and keep me on point. I also need an accountability partner.  IJS!

7. Not watching anything that is contrary to my Christian beliefs

This was another hard thing for me. Because I like some shows that when you ask yourself waht it is promoting... I had to shake my head. In this area, I found that I had to just read a book or dosomething different. Now I am working on this because like I said, there are some shows that I love  to watch. I may not be a groupie but when i catch them I look at them. Especially these ratchet reality shows... LOL I just saying. However, I no longer make excuses. I know as time goes by... they will become less and less and I will be free from the lure of it all. So keep me in your prayers. Because I will do as God says do in this area. He has not told me to stop watching TV altogether but I have started watching it less and less. Which I was already not watching it a ot anyways. But even my Prime, Kindle Unlimited and Netflix watching is curbing.

8. No gossiping/venting

Now to be honest there were some moments that I DID vent. However, I made sure that it did not overstep the boundaries and become gossip. I am learning that I have alot to work on in this area. Because when someone does something you dont agree with, it really is human nature to want to talk about it. Not take it to prayer and make sure tht everyone knows how you feel. the wrong part of that is that now I have bought others into my situation. They give their thoughts and in many cases they begin to feel some kind of way about the people i am talking about. So ehrn I forgive them (the person i talked abut) they may still be in that place of holding a grunge. In this process, God showed me how I have to not only forgive but ask for forgiveness from the person and the people I spoke to about it. It's just not the best thing to do especially in anger. So I am working on this. I have to know when to speak and when to just hold my peace and pray. 

At the beginning of this, I challenged myself to take a long hard look at me and make a change. To be different. Here are the questions that compelled me to step up to the plate:

What would happen in my life if I actually followed through with God's daily direction?
How much spiritual fruit would I bear and what would be its quality?
What if I actually practiced daily and followed through with my dreams?
Who would be blessed by what I produced from what God has given me?
What would be the impact in my businesses; if as an employer I demonstrated Christ’s love in my actions and responses?
What if my food choices were Spirit-inspired vs. gluttony driven?
How much weight would I really lose, or better yet, how healthy would I really be?
What if my exercise decisions came from courage rather than a lazy aspiration that leads to me to do as little as possible?
How much more could I physically do for the kingdom?
If I got proper rest regularly, what would be the quality of my daytime energy?
How prepared would I be to face each day’s challenges?
How much more would I enjoy life’s delights?
What would be the effect if we Christians forgave instead of begrudged when faced with the choice?
How much more would our children trust God or even us if we gave them our time instead of our disapproval?
What if we really added more of our mornings’ first energy to worship versus self indulgces?

These questions will continue to drive this journey in my everyday life. This journey may end here but actually, it's only beginning. A life of concentrated obedience. So I may not journal everyday and share with you all my progress but should the Lord say I need to share something with you I will. It is my desire to be pleasing in His sight no matter the cost.

Father, I pray that you are glorified in my life. That you are lifted high above all my issues, circumstances and moreover my flesh.

In my life Lord
Be Glorified
Be Glorified
In my life Lord be Glorified
Be glorified today

Be Glorified, Be Glorified
Be Glorified, Be Glorified
Be Glorified in the heavens
Be glorified in the earth
Be glorified in this temple
Jesus, Jesus
Be Thou glorified

Amen

This journey is just beginning....


You are Bound No More. 


Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole 
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 20)

God dealt with me today about "Full-time" and "Part-time" ministry. As I began to ponder the things that God was saying to me about my mindset and how I needed to correct my mindset if I as going to walk in REAL obedience to Him. I came across an article written by Joyce Meyers. This article made it so clear to me. I had to repent once agin for being so stubborn and dead set in my own ways.

You can find the article here if you would like to read it for yourself.

Even though God had called me to Full-time ministry in 2007. Recently I had been treating ministry like a Part-time job. I started doing other things allowing them to take my focus away from ministry. Now it's not a bad thing because the truth be told coaching and publishing are part of the ministry I do for the body of Christ. However, because they were paying the bills and ministry was not...I wanted to be a businesswoman instead of a minister. God was not pleased.

So when my businesses started taking a hit and clients were not coming in as quickly as I wanted. The money was slowing and my cell phone was being turned off. I began to get angry with God because WHY would He allow this. 

Today I realize my focus had changed. As long as I was aligned with His will for my life and doing as He told me to do...He blessed me to be prosperous in business. However, He is not playing about FULL-TIME ministry. Everything I do has to put His work first. His priorities must be my priorities. So Full-time ministry it is. As I write this blog. I know that the turnaround I need in my life will come when God can trust me to be obedient to him completely.

Don't get me wrong, I will continue to run my two businesses. God gave me the plan for them and how to set them up so I know they fit into His plan. However, I now know, they are a part of the ministry He has me doing in this season and when it becomes about business, then I am not aligned with His plan. I must stay aligned with His plan for my life. 

Then the benefits that Joyce Meyer talks about in her article, I will see and experience in this life and it will be all for HIS glory. No more delays. 

Please keep me in prayer, obedience (prompt and complete) is not a cake walk at all. 


You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 19)

Many times I think, that we as people, in general, make things much harder than they need to be. We see a problem and instead of finding the right solution we will fill it with the first thing we see. We don't take into consideration that it really does not solve the problem. 

Just take a look at your life, have you tried to solve a problem and found out that you only made matters worst. There is an old saying. "If something is worth doing, then it's worth doing it right the first time". However, we don't truly apply this to our lives. We look for the shortcuts to fame, riches and happiness. When these "solutions" fade we are off to the next bright shining object and hoping this will be the one that ends our journey.

So, today, I woke up determined to stop the madness and do something about this cat and mouse chase I have been on. I have decided to live my life to the fullest and let no one or thing stop me, including myself. Now that means change will have to take place. A change in my thoughts, behaviors and those I let influence my life. But I am worth it, right? I mean really you have to know that you are worth finding the real solutions to the problems in your life. You have to know that living frustrated and unfulfilled is not how it was intended to be for you. Come on, you do know that right?

I guess I thought I would write this blog, because I can't be the only one wanting to make a change. NO a transformation in life. The great things about it is by making up my mind to do something about it, I have won half the battle already. So, remember I said many of us make things much harder than they need to be? Well, here's how you change that right now. Stop over thinking stuff. IF you want to lose weight, stop talking yourself out of walking up the stairs on your way to the office. If you want to meet new people, stop hiding in your house. These simple things will cause a change reaction. No they may not be comfortable or even welcomed at first but you start to embrace them.

So make up your mind to be different. Do something that will start you on the path to solving your problems and helping you to feel good abut your future. I dare you! I know that is what I am working on. It's not being selfish, but it's understanding that I can't help others until I allow myself to be helped.

What I am learning is that once you allow yourself to really look at your situation, the problems, and circumstances... you begin to see clearly. It's your thoughts that must change. Your perception and how you process what is going on. then when you see the solution, not to over think it but act on it.

Obedience is more than just hearing and listening, but it requires action. So again, I dare you to join me in living a better life and be more proactive. Ready, Set, Let's Go!

You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 

Will You Be Made Whole 
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 18)

I have learned so much about God and how he relates to me. I am starting to understand that obedience is not just saying I will but it's having the right attitude. It's about knowing that trust is very important. If you trust God then when he ask you to do something you will do it because you know that God will not do or say anything to cause you pain. It's not easy but it is best.

I thank God for this journey and The new meaning I have about ministry and relationship. So be on the look out for the final revelation of it all.

I tell you this journey is even better the second time. Somethings were just clarified for me, some things were old lessons learned afresh, while still other things were new lessons.

I am thinking this should be like detoxing, done every three to four months. it is a real detoxing of my soul and mind. 

The journey continues...


You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklinda@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole 
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 17)

Remember the Broadway play or the now hit movie "Dreamgirls". 

There is a scene where Effie White (played by Jennifer Hudson) is coming back. She is trying to get back into the music scene after being out of the scene for a few years. We see a somewhat beaten down Effie, traveling on the bus and she sees the Cadillac dealership where she sang and made her start with the Dreamgirls. She hopes again. Hoping that someone will give her a chance to sing again, she goes back to the manager (played by Danny Glover) of Jimmy Early (played by Eddie Murphy). He talks an old friend and club owner into auditioning Effie for a spot at his club. He is reluctant but let's her audition. 

Effie comes in and because conditions are not great, she refuses to sing. Danny Glover's character (Jimmy Early's Mananger) gives her some real life wisdom to think about and the club owner say that he didn't have time for this and that he didn't want to do it anyway. Realizing it was now or never, Effie says, "But you are Mister" turning to the man on the piano, she asked if he knows the song and begins to sing:

Look at me, Look at me
I am changing
Trying every way I can
I am changing
I'll be better than I am
I'm trying to find a way to understand
But I need you, I need you
I need a hand
I am changing
Seeing everything so clear
I am changing
I'm gonna start right now, right here
I'm hoping to work it out
And I know that I can
But I need you, I need a hand

All of my life I've been a fool
Who said I can do it on my own
How many good friends have I already lost?
How many dog nights have I known?
Walking down that wrong road
There was nothing I could find
All those years of darkness
Looking for some light
But now I can see

I am changing
Trying every way I can
I am changing
I'll be better than I am
But I need a friend
To help me start all over again
That would be just fine
I know it's gonna work out this time
'Cause this time I am
This time I am
I am changing
I'll get my life together now
I am changing
Yes I know how
I'm gonna start again
I'm gonna leave my past behind
I'll change my life
I'll make a vow and nothings gonna stop me now 

When I hear this song, it always refocuses me. It helps me understand that ny circumstances and my feelings have nothing to do with my change. It has nothing to do with who I am and where I am going. Change comes because I want it and understand that it is needed. My Obedience to God is a lifestyle. God is like the manager, He sees my potential if I can just get outside of my own thoughts and limitations. I realized that this journey not only exposes the real me but it calibrates me to where God needs and wants me to be. 

The journey continues...

You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

(Corrected Post) 21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 16)

Wow, It seems like only yesterday I started this journey. I was excited and anxious but today, I am more excited than anything. Excited about the things I have learned and how to apply them to the rest of my life. I can not go back to the picking and choosing what I will do. I must, I must change. I must stay focused. Directions have been given, things have been removed, my determined has been set. As I continue this journey I am focusing on the long-term goal.

What is the long-term goal for me...To see Jesus face in peace, to hear him say, "Well Done thy good and faithful servant, enter into my joy and rest."

So, as I continue this journey over the next few days, I am concentrating on those big things God has placed in my lap. Those wonderful things He has given me to do. I am worshiping Him in every area of my life. I am thanking Him for being the God I serve with gladness. I pray that He will continue to teach me His ways; so Linda can die more and more each day.

Do I make mistakes, absolutely, do I slip and fall, Yes, but I have learned that I can and must get back up. Get back up, get back up. I remember reading about getting back up. It was a nice post, but I was a bit dismissive of it. I smiled and said yes I know this, however, I did not hear the message until today. I had fallen and was content to lay in my misery, my defeat, my doubt. God was telling me then, you can not reach your goal or potential in this place or position. I have to get back up. I have to move on. I have to break through the barriers that are hindering me. I have to stop making excuses.

My My, it is so hard to overcome SELF but I must. through the grace and mercy of my Lord and Savior, I must continue to fight the good fight of faith. I must understand that this is not what God has for me, but it's on the other side of these hardships. Boy, God how much You love me. WHEW!!! God never said it would be easy. Actually I am supposed to join Him in his suffering. I think that was my problem... I thought God suffering would still be breezy, easy and not really suffering at all. Then I am reminded that he went to calvary. So if He could do that for me... Surely these light afflictions that plague me I can endure for Him. It's really in how I chose to see it.

So in the words of Bob Carlisle and Donnie McClurkin, I have to "get back up again for a saint is just a sinner who fell down and got up." The hardest part for me is trust. I see that now. My what ifs hinder me to the point of paralyzing me. This journey will not end in a few days it will intensify, why? Because My lifestyle will become a life of concentrated obedience.

Father God, I ask that you give me the strength to do Your will in my life. I know it will not be easy, and Your word says that I can be pressed on all sides, battered, bruised, even misused but you are with me always. I must put my trust in You. You will carry me. all You ask of me is that I depend on You. Help me to lean not to my own understanding and acknowledge you in everything I do. Help me to turn from my wicked and evil ways. I need You. I want you. I can't make it through this wilderness without Your hand guiding me. I ask You to show me your ways, teach me your ways. Help me Love your people. Help me Love your people. Help me see that it's in You that all this will be accomplished. The task is so great, but You can do all things. I can do all things through You that gives me the strength. Father, I am Your child and I need my Daddy now and always.

I rebuke any thoughts that would come against your plans for my life. I rebuke any obstacles that Satan would try to place in my path. I come against worry, doubt, fear, anxiety, stress, lack, deceit, and lies. In Jesus name. I plead the blood of Jesus over my life as a hedge of protection from the storms of life and the evil spirits that will try to uproot what You have given me. In Jesus name, I break every generational curse and bondage in my life and blood line backwards and forwards; things known and unknown. I Shut the door now. In Jesus name, I loose freedom to hear, speak and believe God's Word. See those that are to partner with me in this journey, those that are like minded. In Jesus name allow us to prosper as our soul prospers. set free and deliver Oh God. I pray this all in Jesus Name. Amen.

The journey continues... 


You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole 
In The Meantime 

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 15)

Listening is key in Obedience!

I was sitting in a quiet place waiting to hear from God. When the word "Listen" came to me. Which made me write it down. Then I began to think what is the difference between hearing and listening. Just so you know the difference is huge. 

When a person says I hear you, they are saying that I hear your voice. I hear the vibrations of your voice and I know that you believe what you are saying deserves my attention. Hearing means I may or may not be giving you my undivided attention. Hearing means that I may be formulating what it is I want to say back to you. Hearing means you have been heard but not truly acknowledged.

Now when someone says, I'm listening to you, well they are not just hearing your voice but they have decided to really hear. They hear you with their eyes. They notice facial expressions, breathing patterns, body language and the tones in your voice. How it fluctuates up and down, how it trembles. They sense your excitement, sadness, anger and etc... they can identify with each word and their attention is focused on what you are saying and if necessary they can repeat it word for word with the same intensity. They have listened to you. 

Now some would say the opposite is true, Listen is surface and hearing is a more deeper experience. But as the Lord spoke to me. I listened. 

When God finished speaking, I found myself still focusing on what He had said to me. I could not respond I had to let his words sink in. It was not a rebuke or something very profound. His words were healing me, restoring me and causing my mind to be renewed. His word were life to me and I did not want to lose their meaning in my own words and voice. 

The journey continues...


You are Bound No More. 


Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole 
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day14)

Today, I am dealing with paperwork for my starting my church in San Francisco. Many times I go back and forth with God about this. This is a very demanding time to start a church. However, I don't question God anymore if I am the right one to do it or if I am going to the right city. Many years ago, God told me He would give me a message for the SF. He also told people that people are in the streets waiting for me. Well not for me but for the message He has given me. 

But the legal portion of starting a legitimate church in alignment with my organization guidelines and the state of California is taxing. Because really at the end of the day I must obey God. but in this world of religious freedoms being questioned by the government and same-sex marriages, and tolerance of sin being slapped on with a vengeance. I have to stay prayed up. I have to have my mind right. I can't move forward in fear that someone will target my church or ministry because of what the Devil has put into place. 

I feel most times I am alone, that no one can help me. But then at the same time I feel God leading me. There are some guidelines that I feel are necessary others I feel that are standing in the way of me moving forward. However, God is able to make a way out of no way and cause the hearts of men and women to change. So, I trust Him to do what is needed at the end of the day. All I can do is pray, seek his wisdom and move forward as He leads. 

I am actively looking for a permanent place to worship. So the Bible Studies and prayer meeting can be consistent. That the people God has assigned to New Life can find it and start to live the way God intended for them to live. So we all can be pleasing in His sight and obedient to His word.

Please pray for me as I continue to walk in the Spirit and not in my flesh. Obeying God, growing in favor with God and man.



You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 

Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

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Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 13)

I will bless the Lord today. I will speak of His goodness. I will not be swayed by what I see. What my heart tells me is true can only be misleading. I will not give in, I will not give up. God created me to be exactly who and what I am. I will to obey Him in everything. I choose to be obedient. His will not my will.

Yesterday we Celebrated July 4th, it was a day of independence. Even though Independence Day is a national holiday that really has nothing to do with being spiritual or a Christian to me it did. I realized that my independence was setting a course that would forever change my life because of my obedience.

When I really think about being free it means obeying God no matter what. Following his lead and understanding that He is in control. Then and only then can I be truly and ultimately free!


The journey continues...



You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 

Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 12)

Today, I was in morning worship...For me, morning worship is just expressing how much I love, adore and want to please God because of who He is to me. It starts with thanksgiving. I thank him for all the wonderful things He has done. It so amazing how I start to thank Him and even the minute things come to my mind (ie. that breeze across my face when I was sitting in the sun, hot and sweaty). As I begin to thank Him, I start to praise Him for what He has done and then it is like a moth to fire, I begin to worship Him for who He is. No longer am I just grateful but I evolve. I can't express it in words. I transcend beyond, my circumstance of what I don't have or even what I do...

I realize most of the "revelations" that I am focusing on are not new, but things I have known. Things I have tried to minimize or skirt around. So God is just good in that he has not cut me off or thrown me out. I think Aladrian said it best, this is a time to get better acquainted with God and to understand my relationship with Him.

I entered this journey thinking it would bring NEW revelation to me...what it has done is confirmed what God has already said. So I resolve to work on those things with a vengeance now. Another thing that God has shown me, in this, is I need those that can help me to help me. I can not do all that God has given me by myself. Now, I am praying that God send those that are to partner with me in this journey and that we walk together in unity. I ask that you help me pray also.

I have wasted so much time dealing with the fear of being rejected, fear of failure and the fear of success, that I have forgotten it is not about me at all. It's all about what God wants to do through me and in me.

The Journey Continues...


You are Bound No More. 


Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 

Booklinda@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 11)

Well, It seems that Linda (my flesh) still likes to rise when it comes to total obedience. I have had a few hard lessons in obedience during this process. Understanding that even the little things need to be obeyed to the letter. I am reminded of so many promises I have made to God in order to be relieved of some plaguing thing. For example, "God if you get me out of this mess, I promise to do what you want me to do without hesitation." Then, it happens and several years later God comes to collect and I hesitate or worse, I don't do it at all.

As these things come up I am repenting for it but, more than that, I am asking God to help me change my behaviors. I mean, really you can't bargain with an all-powerful God who knows and sees everything. I am silly to even think that I could.

The great thing is God is showing me this bad little habit so I can work on me. Well, really He can work on me. So now being committed to the things He has spoken is even more important to me. Changing bad habits and replacing them with committed, focused, determined habits is the key.

I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me...that is the mindset I will have from this day forward. I am changing my "I can't" attitude to I can, as Tanya White would say. No more excuses and no more silly laden promises. Just commitment to do the obedient thing.

Father God, I repent for the times I lied to you. I ask for your forgiveness for the wasted years, months, days, hours and moments. I ask that you help me turn from my sins and walk in newness of life. I would that I be found pleasing in your sight. It is my desire to see you in heaven. It is my desire to see your face in peace. Knowing that while here on earth I did everything you asked of me and I touched and inspired my generation to do the same. Father, I ask that you cleanse me, purge me of my own selfishness. I want to walk as you would have me to walk. Let me not be distracted by my flesh, by Satan, by people or any other thing or spirit that would raise itself against the knowledge of what you want for me. Your word says, If I love you I will keep your commandments. That is what I want to do more than anything, to keep your commandments and to walk worthy of the calling you placed on my life. I ask that you, Father, rebuke the devour, in Jesus name. Amen

The journey continues...

You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 

Booklinda@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 10)

Well, today was a struggle for me. Not only did I struggle with making a schedule for my writing. I have been frustrated with the whole nine yards. I keep questioning God about if I am the right one to be transparent about events in my life and if what He is teaching me is something others want to know or read. Again, I was reminded it's not about my comfort zone. I read somewhere that all the things I have been through were not only ordained and allowed by God, but He was very much in control. It was so that God got all the glory and my flesh got NONE. I understand this but does it make me feel good about it. No.

Sometimes, I wish I could go deeper, say things more profound. touch the very inner core of those listening and reading my words. However, I am me and God loves me just as I am. As shallow as I may be at times, and this makes me cry tears of joy. Just to think that the God who spoke this world into existence, stops to listen to my prayers, to answer when I call, to give instructions, to guide, to lead, to love, to rebuke, to encourage, to discipline, and on it goes. Why wouldn't I want to give back my life for this limited time I have.

So I cry, I cry and I cry. Lord, I want to be pleasing in your sight, I want to do what you want me to do, my spirit is so willing, my flesh so weak. Please make me a vessel of honor and not dishonor. Mold me and make me after they will. This is not a cliche for me, but it's my honest prayer.

Back to my schedule of writing, I feel 2 hours a day is a good thing but when? I ask that you pray for me to remove the obstacles that I have to overcome to get this done. It's not as easy as it looks. It's not that I don't have the desire to do it. The desire burns deep within me. I have to want to, got to and will to. My struggle is with all that I am doing, will I feel guilty about sitting in a quiet place and writing when other things are pressing for my attention also. I am a creature of bad habits, hangups and hurts. However, I am learning that trusting God is the only way to live.

You see it is like God has asked me to go from point A to point B. I have made the necessary steps to start the journey, but I am in reverse instead of drive. So if delayed obedience is disobedience then what is misguided understanding. I mean I am doing something, but I am not doing what the Lord has asked me to do completely. Help me Jesus. I celebrate what I am doing well. I applaud myself for taking the journey, but I have to remember clarity is what is needed.

Thus, I cry tears of Joy? Why tears of Joy? Well, the very understanding that I am a wretch undone means there is still hope for me to change and change I will!

My journey will and must continue...

You are Bound No More. 
Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 

Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

(Corrected Post) 21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 9)

See in the beginning of the 21 days of concentrated obedience I knew that I was suppose to focus on the things God had placed in me. I was supposed to focus on my diet and making this temple the best that it can be for Christ. Well, I did the later but the former, Well, let's just say I dropped the ball totally. I forgot to remember the dream, the commission, the passion.

Over the past eight days,  I have not written or rewritten very little of my book. I really have not written anything but the notes for the days of concentrated obedience.

Lately, I have been feeling unfulfilled. Why? Well, now I know, I have not been actively doing everything that God has asked me to do. I have picked through his desires for me and choose the ones that made me feel comfortable, a few that didn't. I have been focused on me and not His heart.

I have used excuses to make me feel better about me but would not look to see the disappointed look on His face. So this journey has opened me up for God to show me the ugly truth. He has been good to me and faithful, but I have not been good or faithful to Him. I have a desire to hear those words but until this journey, did I realize that the words, "Well done, thy good and faithful servant", were drifting away from me. Not because, I am blatantly disobeying God but because I am too afraid to step out and truly believe God for the impossible. Is that the same things? It is not easy to trust God to be a way maker when standing in front of a ten-foot tall brick wall, but He is way-maker. So I resolve to trust Him, even faced with the impossibility of the dreams He has placed with me. His passion and desire for His daughter. He knows what he is doing and If I can trust Him, so will I.

The journey continues...

So, Lord I surrender my will to you and I will do as You say do.


You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 

Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
 In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 8)

A new beginning and my flesh is not ready to die. It is fighting to stay alive and keep my mindset as it was before I started this journey. It has thoughts of its own about my journey. None of which are good and uplifting. However, I am determined to do what God says, how he says it and when he says it. 

After my devotion today, I just felt beat up. Not by God, not even by my desire to be obedient to Him. It was the battle raging in the pits of the core of who I am and the purpose of what I am here to do. My flesh wants it one way, my spirit another. I had to speak to myself today and say: 'Hang on girl, it will get better. God's got your back and He is in control.' Then I went right out and blew it. Not just blew it but blasted it out of the water. So, I felt terrible. What did I do, God told me to give my last dollar to a homeless man. I took one look at the man and said no, this is my money and if I give it to him he will use it to buy drug and or acohol. Yes, I know I am not the only one that thinks that way. however, if it it was true, i knew God had told me to do it. So I was in blantant rebellion to God. So yes, when I walked away from him, I began to feel Godly sorrow. 

I asked God to forgive me but i did not turn to correct it. Instead I gave in to the struggle within me. When I got home God remeinded of a post I read a few years ago and it spoke so much to me that I copied it and saved it as a word document on my computer. I opened it up and read it. Immediately, I knew what I needed to do. I left my house went back to the corner where the man had been sitting and gave him the dollar. I wish I could say that I felt better after that or that God made something amzing happen in return. What I can say is God reminded me delay obedience is still disobedience. I still got a ways to go!

Here is the Poem that I read from Pastor G. Murray:

The Struggle Within

Lord, I'm struggling.My spirit and my flesh are at war.My mind is split.I want to do what is right.But what I want to do, is what I don't always do.And what I don't want to do, I sometimes find myself doing.HELP ME LORD!!!!!!!!!!

Sometimes, I think it.Sometimes, I say it.Sometimes, I do it.I need you Lord.

I'm struggling.I'm sitting on this pew, struggling.I'm sitting on this pulpit, struggling.CHURCH as usual is not helping me.I need someone that I can be my true self with.I need someone to pray with me.I need your strength.I need to talk about it.

I don't look like what I go through.I'm tired of looking religious...when I'm so torn inside.

There is a storm raging within me.The waters are surrounding me.The clouds are hanging over me.I'm sitting here trying to look holy, but the truth is Lord...I'm struggling.Everyday, I have to war against myself. It's ME against ME!

Lord you can bring the discipline, the word, the parameters that I am so desperately in need of.I thank you for your Word...it is a light for my path, and a lamp for my feet.I praise you for your love and kindness.There is a struggle going on in my mind Lord...There is a storm in my heart....And I know you are going to bring something out of my struggle.I know that it's going to work together for my good...

I need a Physician...

Bring peace to my spirit Lord...Calm to my fears.Speak to me on the deepest level of my existence.Lead me and Guide me.

I'm going to stay on this altar of sacrifice until...I am not going to give up.I will never give in...That's why I'm struggling.

I plan to fight the good fight.I plan to keep the faith.I plan to finish my course.

The Enemy is bigger than I.He wants to steal me, and kill me, and ulitmately destroy me.But I will never give up.You are bigger than my struggle.Your grace is sufficient.

I'm struggling [and] in the name of the Living God.I will be victorious.I am more than a conqueror.Jesus is My Help!

Written By Pastor G. Gregg Murray (c)

Thanks for letting God use you Pastor Murray. I will never give up because God is bigger than my struggle. :)

You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 7)

"But Samuel replied: "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD ? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." 1 Samuel 15:22

Wow, I quote this saying a lot, "To obey is better than sacrifice." However, I never really took into consideration that it is not a period at the end of this statement but a comma. Comma meaning more to come. Something else is coming that is of equal importance. So let's take a look at it. "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." To heed...to hear... to pay attention, close attention to. To esteem. So, what I am learning in this is that hearing God's voice is just as important as the obedience. Obeying God's instructions is the best way to have success. Your obedience let's God know that you have HEARD him. Catch this!

Sometimes, we are like King Saul, we do things our way because we are trying to help God out. We think it should be done slightly different or our intentions are to do more than what's intended. I agree if God does not give specific instructions: (ie: take two steps, turn right and spin five times) then you may have more liberty to make those decisions, but as we see with King Saul, he was given specific instructions. In this case, he was told to destroy everything and save nothing. Doesn't get more specific than that. My lesson here is when you hear the voice of God speaking to you specifically about taking action or not, then obey just as it is given.

This is an area, that I struggle with. I am learning through this process that letting God be God in every situation is the only way to go. He truly knows what He is doing without my help. This seems simple but let me ask you this... Have you ever overstepped God?

Father, help me to be obedient and truly hear your voice. Let me step out of the way long enough to truly be pleasing in your sight. Amen.

The journey continues....


You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 

Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole 
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 6)

"About to Launch"

So today I read Jeremiah 29:11-14:

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosperyou and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile." Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 

 After reading this, I heard the words about to launch! At first, I was like God what are You saying about this? I don't see how this scripture goes with what You are saying to me.

Then He reminded me of a dream I had a few weeks ago. In this dream, I was in prison but I knew it was not a real prison. However, I remember very clearly, I was there and my clothes were tattered and torn. They were dirty and my hair was uncombed. Then Suddenly, it was almost like a lightning flash, I was set free and had on new garments and was well put together. I remember asking myself what it meant. I did not think anything of the dream until now. Now I knew that that dream had something to do with Jeremiah 29.

So I went and read the whole chapter. Then I realized that this chapter was speaking to the children of Isreal just before they were going to be captured by the Babylonians. They had disobeyed God and walked away from what they knew to be right. They had displeased God with their constant idol worship. He had warned them thought eh prophet Jeremiah but they would not take heed. So he allowed the Babylonians to come in and capture them.

However, as he is telling them what will occur, he also tells them how long they will be punished. He then reminds them that he made a promise to them and he will uphold his promise. So even though they are being punished for disobedience, that did not deter his promise. He did not change his mind.

Now thinking about my dream. Right now I am in a prison. Many things are going wrong in my life and my situation seems glib. However, just like God told the Israelites that they would come out of the situation and receive the promise, and be returned to their promised land, he was telling me... he has not forgotten his promise to me and everything that God said I would accomplish in this life will be accomplished. This is not my end. God has an expected end for me and that is what is about to launch.

The path that leads to his plans for me and the expected end he has for me. I know that if I seek his face and stay in right standing with him... I shall see my promised land in this life.

You are Bound No More. 

Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 

Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole
In The Meantime

21- Day Consecration: Obedience to God (Day 5)

The great thing about this 21 days of concentrated obedience is God is showing me, how much He loves and cares for me. How much He wants me to be more and more like Him. It is also showing me how far I have to go to be want He created me to be. I am finding that I am willing to stay on course and see the final goal. It is not easy. No one likes to be told that they have character flaws or that what they think is OK, is absolutely wrong.

This journey has been a rude awakening for me. However, it is not something I did not know or a huge revelation but it is something that finally sinking into my head. Obedience is more than just a whim. Obedience is better than sacrifice. I need to be like Nike and "Just Do It" No ifs, ands or buts.

In my quiet time today, I reflected on this scripture 2 Timothy 4:3

"For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear."

So what is the real lesson in all this, I cant say that after five days I know what the Lord will teach me through this process. However, I can say that He is removing the brass. He is pulling out all stops. He is preparing me to be His good and faithful servant. What I do know is that I want to pass the test at the end, so I am taking notes. I am listening to what He is saying intently. This means that through those that are being placed in my path, whether they say good, bad or indifferent things, I am taking it all into consideration. I am learning to hear His voice through the loud noises. I am becoming more clear and direct with his instructions.

I thank God for those that are willing to speak the truth, even when it is not popular. Those that are willing to sacrifice for the Kingdom of God and not worry about what the masses think. Instead of bringing those around me that say only what I want to hear, I want to gravitate to those that will speak the truth in love. I want to be a vessel of honor and not dishonor. I want those that will see my flaws as areas of growth and pray me through the process. I want those who love me enough to say "Thus saith the Lord". No regrets, no holding back, no shame. Listen, I may get pushed out of shape a bit, I may even get a bit angry but in the end, If God said it, I believe it and that settles it. If I need to get right then so be it. If I need to continue on the path I am on then so be it. If things are not going to be as I thought, hoped, or dreamed...it's okay as long as God gets all the glory for this life.When it's all said and done, I want to hear Him say, Well done, thy good and faithful servant. I want Him to say, "You did everything I asked you to do when I asked you to do it."

The Bible says, 

"Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." John 8:31-36

The truth will make you free and the truth only comes from the God. So let it wash over you. Be free to hear what the Spirit is saying. Then you too can say:

He that the Son has set free is free indeed
No more chains of slavery
Truth has triumphed in liberty
He that the Son has set free is free indeed.

And the journey continues...


You are Bound No More. 


Pastor Linda Hillman 
(c) 2015 LAH Ministries International 
Booklindahillman@gmail.com 

Get Your Copy Now 
Will You Be Made Whole 
In The Meantime