Blog
The vocabulary of the world is not the language of the Spirit. When followers of Jesus use over-simplified definitions to define other believers, we align ourselves with the spirit of the world and lose the distinction of our union in Christ. Labels like “Christian...
In some cases, our faith can assume a comfortable, non-confrontive posture. In that condition, a weaker faith will emerge that is unable to push through and confront the afflicting presence of evil. Only a faith that demonstrates the presence of Jesus Christ can...
Our greatest protection is not the armies of the world and their armament or how many soldiers can be summoned for war. Our greatest protection is the voice of God in a season of turmoil. God’s voice will come to those who have learned to recognize its sound. The Lord...
In my late teens and early 20’s, I studied several styles of martial arts. This was back in the late 60’s and early 70’s when martial arts in the United States was evolving. We used to learn our self-defense techniques by having a student stand in front of an...
If you are reading this you are most likely using a computer or some handled device to read these words. You know what a default setting is when it comes to electronic machinery. A default setting lets you program a predetermined preference into your computer so that...
There are people who have never taken the time to develop their natural intellect. The same can be true regarding our spiritual intellect. Scripture tells us that our minds must be renewed in order to comprehend the things of the Spirit and not continue to live in the...
At some point, God may ask you to fast from giving prophetic words. These silent times can be for a single meeting or for extended seasons of time. The length and timing of these kinds of fast are up to God. ...
Some people attempt to walk into the future while still wearing the past. In doing so, they carry forward things that are no longer needed in the new season. In the process of transition, they were unable to let go of the past and missed the new assignment God...
It is interesting how a casual glance at my Facebook feed could provide two bookends for much of what I have been processing since the Las Vegas attack. On one Facebook wall. I saw a video by the popular late night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel. Kimmel said in regards...
Be careful what you assume to be the truth. The most logical and well-crafted lie can be hidden in what you are asked to be-LIE-ve on face value. We need both the Word and the Spirit to comprehend what is true. All truth is not written in the Scripture and yet...
Today, I have been numb. I have been numb since I first awakened from a fitful night of sleep at 3:30 a.m. to hear the news coming out of Las Vegas. This is the kind of numbness that does not come from insensitivity to the pain and suffering of others. It is a numbing...
Each year, I have the honor to work with pastors and churches in transition to new leadership. It’s not difficult to work out the practical elements of a transition plan. The challenge comes in the transition we discover that the pastor, a member of the leadership...
What was previously hidden is about to be revealed. What was spoken behind closed doors will be shouted in the city streets. God is about to release supernatural revelation to bring freedom to individuals, cities, and nations. When Jan and I planted our first church...
Yesterday, Jan came into the living room to take a break from editing the final draft of her new book of blessings. She said, “Garris, I just heard the words, “‘Olly, Olly, Oxen free!’ I think the Lord is saying something. ” We both smiled remembering the times as...
Our lives are constantly being filled with opposing opinions on all matters pertaining to life. This has become a place where anger and frustration breed their offspring of division and hatred. The way forward through this morass of opinion and heated emotion will...