The Spirit of the Sovereign Yahweh is on me, because Yahweh has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of Yahweh’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion– to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of Yahweh for the display of His splendor.–Isaiah 61:1-3
A few months ago, I came across the pictures you see on my banner…
I studied them intently…I hardly recognize that child…I was always told I was a “serious” child…I barely remember feeling the playful freedom to simply jump around and let my hair fall wherever…to just be silly…to just laugh and not worry…
That’s who I was created to be…not the uptight, anxious, serious, prideful, intimidating perfectionist I’ve been…controlled by fear and shame…
It’s the 4th of July.
The day we celebrate our independence as a nation.
As I think forward to the coming months and anticipate the healing journey, and the spiritual battle that will ensue, I decided this would be the most appropriate day to declare my independence.
Independence from the strongholds that have bound me…
In-Dependence on Christ’s grace, love, and truth…
I’ve reflected on this for some time, holding on to the hope.
Now I take hold of the promise—rephuah shelomah–complete and perfect healing.
For most of my life, I believed the enemy’s lies about myself…
I’ve allowed myself to be held captive in this dark spiritual battle…
Messiah came to proclaim my release …
The war began thousands of years ago…
My battle has now begun…
I know I will prevail, because Yahweh Nissi, (the LORD my Banner), has gone before me and has already defeated the enemy.
As you can read in my testimony over the next few days, things were taken from me long ago…
Things I didn’t think I could ever get back…
I lived in denial for a long time…
No more…
Through Messiah, I’m taking them back.
We’re recapturing my innocence…
We’re reclaiming His truth…
He’s restoring my purity…
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.–Philippians 4:13
HalleluYah!… It’s Independence Day!
