As we read Acts 16:23-26, we realize that we are on a Divine Assignment To Be Locked Up For Others Breakthrough! See in understanding the story of Paul and Silas; This Bible story begins the unjust arrest of Paul and Silas. Because they had cast a spirit of divination out of a girl, the local Philippians authorities beat them and then threw them into a jail cell. Besides the trauma of the severe beating, they were fastened in stocks which clamped their arms and legs in an immobile position, causing cramps and loss of circulation. The atmosphere there was depressing. According to the standards of that day, a prison was more like the resemblance of a dungeon.  This was a dark, damp, stench-ridden place, with no facility for waste or comforts of any kind.

Paul and Silas were going about kingdom business. There was a woman on an assignment to make it a point to distract Paul and his companion. She met them in the street while they were going to pray; while under the influence of Satan, the great temper has taken the opportunity to spoil or delay the their purpose.  This gives us an example of demonic diversion when we are going about our religious duties…to ruffle us when we should be composed

However they were rewarded with being beaten and cast into prison. It doesn’t seem fair, does it? Well it does seem fair, when we remember what Jesus suffered at the cross.  He told us that we would be taken before powers and magistrates as a witness to Him.

Now the whipping they received constituted that surely they would have been released. In these days, the magistrate were cruel, the guards were even crueler. In an attempt to gain favor with man, the jailer was charged to keep them safely and have a very watchful eye. Having this charge he decided to transfer them to the inner prison, the dungeon.

Yet, in spite of the throbbing pain in their bodies and the disheartening atmosphere, at midnight Paul and Silas were heard praying and singing praises to God! What a strange sound this must have been to the other prisoners, who were used to only hearing the groans or cursing of those who had been beaten. Then suddenly, there was an earthquake that shook the prison!

Instantly, Paul and Silas could has used that moment for selfish gain; but they knew they were on a Divine Assignment To Be Locked Up For Others Breakthrough! Suddenly, the jailers and prisoners witnessed the true manifestation of God. There life was changed permanently…Suddenly

Many critics dismiss the story of Jonah as a Myth or Fable because they reject the miraculous element of the Great Fish. This is sad, because it shows our inability to comprehend the supernatural nature of God.  Yet, It amazing how we can believe that he made the sun stand still for Joshua [10:1-15], or better yet,  part the red the sea for Moses and the Children on Israel; and the presence of the Great Fish[whale] is belittled.  Who are we to determine the moves, actions, motives, and thoughts of God?

See, The Book of Jonah is special to me because it is a great depiction of our human nature as Believers.  We profess: at YOUR Word, I will obey and when the mandate is executed we flee from our duty in favor of serving our self.   This shows our natural intuition and spiritual maturity are off kittle, because faith is our Barometer to determine our spiritual well being.  Why do we fear man more than God? Why do we force God to reassure us His Strength, such as Joshua Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD?

More so, before we examine the character of Jonah, we must realize that he wasn’t the only one with a reluctant spirit.  It took Moses 40 years of preparation to get it together.  One about Gideon arguing with the Angel, or Jeremiah thinking the he was too young?   Why is it that we are as believers boldly profess our titles, and cowardly resent our position?

See, as we follow the scripture, we will see that Jonah’s behavior was different from the other spiritual leaders in the bible.  He actually was the first recorded to disobey God through action versus vocally.  See, he attempted to hide from God with the mindset that if I don’t say anything then, it’s not disobedience. Wrong, what you do matters just as much as what you say.   Talk to Achan or Uzzah whose actions lead them to premature death.       What you do is in a marriage with what you say and believe; they must all be in balance. Jonah didn’t realize that he was running , but stepping into Purpose.  He thought he ridding himself of who is was but in actuality it was a set up for greater message with an explosive presence. See, we as believers have to stop determining who is eligible to receive the Word of God. 

See, when you called, you are called.  When you are chosen, you are chosen…and everyone around you knows who you are.

Jonah 1:4

4But the LORD sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so that the ship was like to be broken.

 5Then the mariners were afraid, and cried every man unto his god, and cast forth the wares that were in the ship into the sea, to lighten it of them. But Jonah was gone down into the sides of the ship; and he lay, and was fast asleep. [ The enemy will have you convinced that you can find peace in disobedience.  Think about it.  He went to most uneasy place and found peace]

 6So the shipmaster came to him, and said unto him, What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon thy

God, if so be that God will think upon us, that we perish not.

Jonah actions forced them to cast lots: which is symbolic in several meanings; one being that no one has the final say so but God! Casting Lots we the best way to keep man’s motives and enter God’s. For they knew (Proverbs 16:33) "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord." Then it forced them to change Religions! It the beginning they were worshipping pagan gods; later they were worshipping the True and Living God (14). It is amazing how sinners can practice more Godly principles than us.  They also knew that the lots were symbolic for tithing.   See when you think you are running from God, you are chasing purpose.  See, you may think that you are letting go God, but he is not letting God of you.  

We must realize that our choices damage more people than we know!  See, don’t confused your prison with incubator.  You may see it as a hell experience, when it is an experience of elevation.  The Fish is symbolic for the Jesus, the messiah coming…He was in the belly of the great fish, come on….he was in the bosom; he thought that he was in hell but he was in Bosom of Abraham.  Maybe sometimes, you need to sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob help with restore your Faith, which restores your relationship God.  See, all this happen in the belly of Fish…meaning God was in control, the Fish was a Theophany of God’s omnipresence and unconditional love to keep us on course. See, in the belly of the Fish, was he was aligned with God, the Relationship of God was restored, therefore, worship took place, meaning deliverance took place which served as a catalyst to preach a sermon that impacted an entire nation.   So much so, it forced the entire land to repent and touched God’s hand…

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, we think of Acts 22:22-28; and we say to ourselves: “But I was born a citizen, see was born free...oh, but the cost of freedom”.  Free is a product of freedom. Free to go from sea to shining sea. Free to vote for the First Black President and the First Black Mayor of Columbia, South Carolina.  There is more then independence; especially, when you understand the cost of this freedom.  So we celebrate the costly price of this benefit. So even if we look back just on the history of USA, we understand the cost that was paid throughout the years.  We understand that freedom is a man that sacrificed more than we will ever know; and His name is Jesus.  HE warred in the heavenlies on our behalf.  This was evident in the Garden of Eden.  Though HE paid the price, we are free to worship Him, to do for him, to live for him.  There should be a shout of praise because we celebrate of Freedom in Christ.  However, you have to know that you are free, not just think it. You have to know that you know. 

See, the enemy will try to place you in prison, just as Paul.  The enemy will have you in a position of guilt; he may even have you bound as to look defeated.  However, as long as there is praise in your heart or a WORD on your tongue there is freedom. This evident by Paul’s ability to know who he was.  He asked the question is it lawful to flog a Roman Citizen.  See Paul knew he was, in God and on the Earth.  Paul understood his freedom and the cost that was paid.

This freedom is bigger than what one can see.  This freedom kindles from within.  So, look past your current circumstances and/or appearance.  You are free, a citizen of God, an heir to the throne and promise!  So rejoice, Praise God for paying the price.  The cost afforded you freedom! Just know, in your dungeon experience and cell block of solitude, God can allow that to be an earth quaking experience for a shift in your life.  The cost is ignited by your praise; celebrate God for footing the bill of your freedom.

When we read Jeremiah 18:6, the book title Instrument in the Redeemer’s Hand seem to come to mind.  See, sometimes you have to tell yourself:  “I Am An Instrument In The Redeemer’s Hand!”  We have to come to a point and realize that transformation doesn’t come from man, but from God.  True change is something only God can do.  We can’t change ourselves; God changes us to become Change Agents. 

A Change Agent has to be used. When this is implemented, we gain the understanding that we are instruments; one used by another as a means or aid.  So, no matter what we do in life, we need to  be used by God.   If we revisit the “You Might Need AAA” sermon, we will see that failing to be instrument of God makes us a vice for Satan.   If you are not willing to be an Instrument of God then, YOU MIGHT NEED AAA, which is An Attitude Adjustment.

Jeremiah was called to bring forth a work that was uneasy, unpopular, and difficult.   However, he realized that he was an instrument of God, and he must put all feelings aside to be vessel for God.  Though, there may be some heartache and pain in the Christian Walk; it is always better to be with God.  Remember, obedience is better than sacrifice. In knowing this, you gain the revelation that “No weapon formed shall prosper”.    

See, being instrument strips the flesh from speaking.  When you become an instrument, you allow God to consume you, shifting to HIS direction.  Just like the marred clay, we have all fallen short; but, God saw it fit that we not perish.  God saw the best in us, just like he saw Israel when he was acting as Jacob.  God sees the transformation in us during our current state.  

Just know, when you yield to God you become and Instrument of HIM.  When you become an instrument, you understand the VALUE of the process…

You Are An Instrument Of God… An Instrument In the Redeemer’s Hand...

As we read Acts 9, and study Paul's Conversion, we have come to realize that on this Journey you might need AAA. That in case of an emergency, you might need some coverage. See, this triple is A is an attitude adjustment...because this determines your altitude.  So in order to progress, we must reexamine they way we think; rethink the way we belief.  We must understand the value in changing our minds.  How is it we come in to the House of the Lord looking low; when the bible says enter HIS gates with thanksgiving, enter HIS courts with praise!

See celebrate God, taste and see...  Remember, in case of emergency, you might need AAA.   Reflecting on Acts, what is your Damascus experience?  Is there a place and time that you are feeling low..."but Jesus".  See, there is the Great I AM on your side. See, the Damascus experience is designed bring the real and true YOU out! Do you know who you are...you are a child of God.  See, like Saul every now the God has to knock the hell out of you.  HE must rid you of the things that are not like HIM.  God has to strip you when you get all puffed up in the flesh.  HE must scold you as a parent does a child. God has to bring you back actuality, position you the Will of God!

So know the low places in your life are created for God to elevate you to rightful place. See, the transition of change induces praise.  Sometimes, you could be a place and/or position of praise but lack the revelation of where you truly are.  This further explains the necessity of having AAA…You might just need an attitude adjustment!

As we read Acts 6:3, 8; 7:54, we are admonished to REMAIN FOCUSED.  If we were to focus on Stephen, who was a man that was focused, we would be able to see the character traits of a FOCUSED INDIVIDUAL.  See, he possessed a good reputation, a sound mind, and practicality (wisdom). We must realize that wisdom is more valuable than knowledge.  Wisdom, allowed Stephen stand in a position in which no one could compare.  Stephen was selected first because of wisdom and the acquisition of the Holy Spirit.  He was quickened by the Spirit of God, pregnant with the Spirit to edify the body and to empower the church. Therefore, rejoice if you’re quickened by the Holy Spirit.  There is also, POWER through what you are about to birth. So, you have a walk and a talk, unlike anybody else.  Revisit your Kingdom Mindset, take hold to a Godly mentality. We must be a FOCUSED as Stephen, a follower of Peter; we must make sure we are following a sure foundation.  What are you following?  What is your influence, and what are you influencing? See, when you are focused it validates who you are, and exposes everyone else.  Even if it means death you, you are FOCUSED on a HIGHER CALLING.  SO STAY FOCUS and REMAIN FOCUSED

In reading Acts 5:1-11 we must come say to ourselves: IT WILL NOT KILL ME!  See, you must understand that any day on top the Earth is better than one underneath it.  This is the day that the Lord has made; new mercies we are able to see! Regardless of the circumstances, in knowing weapons may form, but they will not prosper.  You must say: IT WILL NOT KILL ME.

If we would take a moment and reflect on the story of the cat on the railroad, we will also gain an understanding that being on the wrong position could cost you your head and/or your behind.   See, each day Satan desires to sheaf you as wheat.  His desire is to kill, steal, and destroy.  This is done when we fail to be consistent and rooted in the Foundation of Jesus Christ.  The same as we despise untrustworthiness, GOD’s view us.   God rejects a luke-warm believer; he detests a double minded man.  Why; because he is unstable in all his ways.

This is the mindset of Ananias.  Ananias, a man stuck between courage and fear.  The imbalance is an entrance way for Satan to sneak in.  This is an access point for Satan to seize your mind and thoughts to influence your action to mirror his.  However, you must make the decision, the stance to NOT LIKE THIS KILL YOU! Playing with the enemy has Ananias did, is like having a FATAL ATTRACTION.  This decision could cause a road of hell, turmoil, and even death.   However, just like the movie; there was an alternative ending. 

See, the DIRECTOR [GOD], didn’t see it fit that you should perish.  So he instituted a “hands off policy”.  Though, Ananias and wife, didn’t understand that value of the tithe, or the value of being in relationship.  God afforded us another chance to evaluate our psyche.  This also allowed us an opportunity to reconnect with HIM, reiterating: This WILL NOT KILL ME.  Return to God…don’t like the enemy take you out!  

As we read Phil 1:3-6; the question is asked:  Are there any confident people?  See, we must welcome that transition...from commencement to confidence. Know that this is the start of something good. See, you must realize that you are going to the next level, starting NOW!  In order to transition, you must be fully persuaded.  This persuasion is fueled by confidence.  This takes the ability to know, that you know, what you know!

It is an honor, that God allows us to have a spiritual graduation to elevate into this confidence. God is calling us to stay under the focus of education; for our people perish for a lack of knowledge.  This knowledge, allows us to gain our stability.  For we know, a double minded man is unstable in all his ways.  This knowledge, allows you to see the influence of Satan; while gaining an understanding of the war that is taken on our behalf. You are appreciated by God. If there is contrariness in the Spirit, then you may need to check your Spiritual GPS. 

You are royalty; heirs to the throne.  The more you find out who you are; dwelling with like minds, you are increased.  Those around you are increased.  Increasing leads into overflow! We are bound in riches! Your soul should be crying hallelujah! So hold fast, to your commencement to confidence; count it all joy

...even when your flesh is leading you in opposition to God, take another look; look and see who's with you.  There is an endowment of POWER! This confidence is the same confidence which aided Paul in the establishment of the Church at Philippi. This is encouragement in knowing troubles don't last always.

So be in confidence; know the relationship you have with God. Be in confidence; know the covenant that you are a part of.  Be in confidence; don't grow weary in good doing! This is your commencement.

As we prepare for the day of Pentecost, there are so many things that we must look for during our preparation.   If we were to take a look at Acts 1:14 “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren”; several things we must consider.”  Primarily, there is a need to be on one accord, prayer, and supplication.   

This is vital, because when “gathered together sharing the same heart, the same love for God, the same trust in His promise, and the same geography. Predisposes us to be filled, we must recognize our emptiness; by gathering together for prayer, in obedience, these disciples were doing just that.  They recognized they did not have the resources in themselves to do what they could or should; they had to rely on the work of God”.

This one accord is known as Homothumadon (hom- oth-oo-mad-on), compound word in Greek that means a Quickening by Unity; which means being in agreement (covenant).   Therefore, it is fundamental not to delay your increase, your production, your growth by refusal and/or disobedience. See, the Day of Pentecost was a Jewish feast held fifty days after Passover.  It was a time to celebrate the firstfruits of the harvest. 

Your first fruit belongs to God.  It is the first bud(s) and/or the first signs of life…initial movement.  See, the Church is a female and is impregnated with a seed that is going to cause movement.  Therefore, it is vital to invest your first fruit, your tithe….pregnant with MOVEMENT!!!!  Movement, is Life; life that is produced by believers staying on one accord.  Individually, we must do our portion for a corporate break through.

Don’t Delay You Increase; Don’t delay your elevation by refusing to do what is needed such as acts of worship, prayers, supplication and tithing.  The tithe is your covenant connecter with God.  The key to unlocking the blessing that is connected to the revelation of elevation; how incredible, when the body is on one accord…meaning an agreement, unity, and covenant.

Don’t Delay Your Increase….it’s connected to your promise!

Act 1:1-6;21-26           6So when they met together, they asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?"  7He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."… 21Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection."  23So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs." 26Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

In Acts 1:6-8, God conveys to us that it’s none of your business, but it’s my Father’s business. However, you will receive power. In verses 21-26, it is highlighted that… “then they cost lots… And so he was added to the twelfth”.  So the question is asked: Are you THE TWELFTH Man?

In Remembering the twelfth man, we think of the Texas AM, because sometimes you do more by standing on the sideline.  This is reflective of the bench warmer, the spectator, and the team. However you must realize that you are an integrate part of this war...even though, you have already won! See, just like the Aggie sitting in the press box, he was high and lifted.  In this season of actualization, we must educate ourselves. Educate ourselves higher than the academia realm, but to fulfill the calling! We must seek an apostolic experience. 

Though we understand we may never live and see him face to face but it doesn't negate the acquisition of a relationship. We are seeking ascension of Christ. Get a vertical relationship and get rid of those horizontal distractions and relationships.  Arise, to the standard in which you were created! Elevate yourself to Jesus! He has been ascended; therefore, we must look high and draw near to that higher ground. 

This is why Jesus said don't leave Jerusalem, but wait! Don't leave this new place, but wait on your power, this promise! See, the biggest debate in faith is the presence of Holy Spirit is signified with the gift of speaking in tongues, but the true gift is the power!  Not to knock speaking in tongues but the Holy Spirit is more than that...it is power, it is a force! There is no path before you greater than the force behind you!

See, the times and dates are irrelevant...this is not your concern.  Worry not, it is under Gods control! Educate yourself of the power! Even when there is a void; if there is something going away from the will of God, speak to the Judas area. Know, God has it under control.  If you look at Judas, he used his reward to buy land, and lost everything he had.  Don’t invest in a system that is against God; you will lose! Educate yourself on HIM and BE IN HIM!