Delay Does not Mean Denial
Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.
Psalm 37:5, ESV
There have been times when I think about the promises God has made to me that have not yet come to pass. If I’m honest, I sometimes get discouraged. I often ask God, What am I not doing? What do I need to do? Why hasn’t this happened yet? It feels like others are receiving their blessings while I’m still waiting.
Not too long ago, God reminded me of a dear friend and his experience. We know this lovely couple through our daughter, who became friends with their daughter. The father of this family was a pastor at a thriving church. He loved the people, the community, and always believed the best for everyone. The church was part of a larger organization that had governing positions individuals could be elected to. At some point, our friend decided to run for one of those positions. He was so well-loved and respected that everyone assumed he would be appointed. But God blocked the appointment.
When you don’t know what’s happening behind the scenes, it can sometimes seem like God is not on your side. However, a few years after the election, we learned about significant corruption within the organization. God was preparing to reveal the corruption and bring those involved in illegal activities to justice. By blocking our friend’s appointment, He was protecting him from getting caught up in the mess.
Now, years later, our friend has been appointed to the position, and he is thriving! God had placed the desire in his heart, and His answer was always yes—it was just in God’s timing, not ours. We must remember the scripture: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path. Discouragement comes when we rely on our own understanding instead of God’s. We must remember to walk by faith, not by sight. His plan is always perfect!
Key Points:
There is purpose behind every move.
Delay does not mean “no”; it means keep the faith and trust God!
Our understanding is never the same as God’s.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Invisible is Real
For everything was created by Him, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him.
Colossians 1:16, CSB
Many times, when I am in prayer with God, He stops me on a word and just has me sit with it. During one particular prayer time, I remember quoting the scripture above. I can’t tell you why, but as I spoke those words, the Holy Spirit lifted the word invisible. I don’t think I even finished quoting the rest of the scripture; I just stopped and focused on that word.
He elevates words and thoughts while we are speaking because prayer is a dialogue. It’s so important to remember this, or you might miss when He is speaking directly to you. I sat and meditated on what He was saying, listening as God spoke.
He began to remind me of the things that are invisible: God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, my mind, my breath, my thoughts, my emotions, my soul, my spirit, my words, my sight, the air, the sound—and the list goes on. I remember Him saying, The most important things are invisible.
Many people are so busy trying to obtain what they can see in the flesh that they miss what is most valuable. Even now, as I write this, I am depending on the invisible to manifest the visible. I am relying on what I cannot see or touch to share this message with you. People often ask, How can you believe in a God you cannot see? My response is, How can you not? The things we depend on most in our daily lives are invisible. For a moment, imagine your life without thoughts, words, sounds, breath, air, your spirit, your soul (mind, will, and emotions)—and Jesus. I haven’t even added God into the equation because those of you who have accepted Jesus Christ already know what life is like without Him.
The word "invisible" in Greek is aoratos, meaning "unseen." I love how God has left the most important aspects of our lives unseen. God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit are physically unseen, yet their presence is evident all over the world. Similarly, our mind, will, emotions, breath, words, and thoughts are unseen, yet they manifest in our lives every day.
We call supernatural healings “miracles” because we cannot see them happening. But may I suggest to you that every day you witness supernatural miracles in your own life? They’ve become so common that we sometimes overlook the blessings God has bestowed upon us.
Jesus is real. God the Father is real. The Holy Spirit is real. You are real. The invisible is real!
When I was younger, I remember hearing a song sung in church. Some of the lyrics went:
I'm looking for a miracle, I expect the impossible, I feel the intangible, and I see the invisible.
As a child, I sang those words without realizing the miracle was already within me. Now, I see the invisible every day, and it is real.
Key Points:
Just because you cannot see something with your eyes does not mean it is not real.
Every day, you bring the invisible into the present.
You operate in the same image of God.
God said, Let there be light. What are you saying?
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Steps Ordered
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; Psalm 37:23, ESV
We had been on nanny duty for weeks, and I hadn’t had the opportunity to go for a run. The morning of our first day back home, after finishing my morning study, I decided to head out for a run. I’ll admit, my study time that morning felt a little unusual—God was leading me to scriptures that didn’t seem to align with my planned study. But as the day unfolded, I realized He was directing my path in His perfect way.
I was thrilled to be back in my running rhythm, just listening to God and enjoying the movement. By the end of my run, I made my way to a coffee shop, sweat dripping from my face. I went to the restroom to freshen up, but both doors were locked. Frustrated, I decided to run over to the Bel Air grocery store to use their restroom instead.
As I stepped out of the coffee shop and headed toward the store, I spotted one of my old bosses. To be honest, I instinctively lowered my head, hoping to avoid her—I was drenched in sweat and felt self-conscious. But when the Holy Spirit is at work, He orchestrates everything for a purpose. As I was about to pass her, she called out my name and reached out for a hug. I hesitated, saying, “Hi! But I’m really sweaty from my run—I don’t think you want a hug!”
She smiled, and we began to chat. She shared that her ex-husband had recently suffered a stroke and was in a terrible situation. Her son was trying to manage his business while her ex-husband was in a care facility. At that moment, the scriptures I had studied earlier came flooding out of me. I spoke words of encouragement, and she began praising God right there in the parking lot!
I asked if I could pray for her and her family, and she said yes. So, we stood there in the middle of the parking lot, and I prayed for her. She was so uplifted and grateful, giving thanks to God as we parted ways. Feeling joyful and full of praise, I headed toward the grocery store. But before I could go inside, a man approached me and said, “God bless you.”As I looked at him, the Holy Spirit whispered to my heart: He saw you pray, and he wants prayer too.
I asked him if I could pray for him, and he nodded, saying, “Yes.” Though he spoke little English, I understood enough to know what he needed prayer for. As I began to pray, this man lifted his arms, thanking Jesus. The Holy Spirit took over, leading the prayer and meeting his needs in ways I couldn’t have never imagined. When we finished, he was filled with joy, and so was I. As I walked away, I heard the Holy Spirit gently remind me: The two locked bathroom doors in the coffee shop weren’t a coincidence—I needed you here in this moment.
Every day of our lives is ordered by God. We just have to surrender to His will and trust Him in every moment.
Key points:
With God everything has a purpose.
Everyone sees the light of Jesus in you.
Change is apart of his plan.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Ordered Steps
My husband had a two-hour gig and invited me to ride along with him. The drive was about an hour, and he just wanted some company. Normally, I would have said, “No, thank you,” but this time, I felt prompted by the Holy Spirit to go. I brought along some paperwork to work on while I waited. As we neared the location, my husband suggested I check out the mall a couple of blocks away from the event.
Here’s the funny part—our church was hosting its 35th-anniversary gala in a few weeks, and I wasn’t sure what I was going to wear. I’d browsed the internet a few times but couldn’t find anything that matched what I had in mind. I had even prayed, asking God to provide what He wanted me to wear. So, I followed my husband’s suggestion and headed toward the mall. There were two sides to the mall. I wanted to go to the right, but I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me to go to the left and stop at Nordstrom.
Nordstrom was the last place I wanted to look—I’d already searched online and hadn’t seen anything I liked. I was tempted to head toward a couple of boutiques on the right, but the prompting to go to Nordstrom was strong. I obeyed, parked exactly where the Holy Spirit directed me, and walked into the store. As I followed His guidance, I was led to a sales rack. On the rack was a beautiful dress, but it was too big for me. I decided to try it on anyway and thought about getting it altered. That’s when the Holy Spirit said, “Ask the sales clerk to check if they have your size.”
When I stepped out of the dressing room, the Holy Spirit directed me to a young saleswoman. She was so stylish and adorable that I couldn’t help but compliment her. I said, “Oh, I love your style! You are so cute, with your boots and short skirt! I continue to tell her not to let anyone tell her otherwise.” She immediately started to tear up and said, “I really needed to hear that.”
I encouraged her, saying, “Listen, your haters are only coming after you because you are walking in who you were meant to be. It’s confirmation that you’re on the right track!” She opened up about how some friends had been treating her and said, “You were sent to give me exactly what I needed.” Then she asked, “Can I hug you?” Of course, I gave her a big hug and spoke a blessing over her. Not only did she find the dress in my size, but it was marked down even lower! Look how God ordered my steps.
At the same counter, I noticed a little girl with her mom. She looked about seven or eight years old and was wearing a “Happy Birthday” sash. She stared at me, and I felt the Holy Spirit shining through me toward her. I smiled and said, “Oh, it’s your birthday!” She beamed, and so did her mother. I reached into my purse, pulled out some cash, and handed it to her as a birthday gift. The little girl and her mom were stunned, but they both thanked me with big smiles.
I knew God had directed my steps to Nordstrom that day to meet those two individuals and bring them encouragement. He also provided me with a with a new dress! Every day, God has a plan already laid out for us. We just need to listen closely to His voice and follow His leading. When we do, we have the opportunity to experience His greatness.
Key points:
Don’t miss the promptings because of your own desires.
God has laid out a plan for us every day.
His plans bring us joy.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Encourager
But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”— these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. For who knows a person's thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual. The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:9-16, ESV
Believers have greater power under the anointing because the Spirit of God lives inside them. When the Spirit of God speaks to a believer, He communicates through their spirit. The Bible says, “They that worship God must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” The only way God communicates with His people is through the spirit. Unbelievers cannot hear or understand the Word of God because they operate out of the flesh.
Flesh gives birth to flesh, and the Spirit gives birth to spirit. There is nothing the flesh can offer to the spirit realm that benefits the spirit. The flesh cannot comprehend the Spirit of God. However, when an unbeliever accepts Christ as their personal Savior, He brings all of Himself into them. At that moment, the believer takes on the mind of Christ. Why does Jesus Christ do this? Because He desires every individual to know His Word, understand Him, and have a personal, intimate relationship with Him. He created us for fellowship and to share in His love!
The other day the Holy Spirit told me to call a dear friend. Now, I really did not know what to say to her but the Holy Spirit said, “give her a call”. So I followed his instructions. When I called I just said, “Hi love, God told me to call and check in on you so that is what I am doing.” She was so excited because she understood the mind of Christ her words were, “Oh thank you so much I love you! Thank you for letting me know that God was thinking about me. Thank you for being obedient and giving me this call” She understood that God wanted her to know just how much he loved her.
The Holy Spirit is here to help believers in every area of life. He knows we will face trouble in this world. He reminds us in that we don’t wrestle against flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. There is no way we can win our battles in the flesh. The people and problems we face are real, but they are not the root of the issue—it’s a spiritual battle. Without the presence of our Father, we are outnumbered. Amen!
As we consistently pray against the schemes of the devil and stand firm in the Word of God, we will have victory. Every believer has greater power than anything that comes against us, and that is truly good news!
Key points:
The believer must rely on the Holy Spirit within.
We were never ment to fight our battles
Follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit, He always brings victory.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Promises of God
Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Matthew 18:19-20, ESV
In one of our services, our Bishop spoke about the symbols of the Holy Spirit. He made this powerful statement: “We will not confirm the facts with our mouths; we will declare the promise of God.” I loved that! It struck me to the core, and I immediately jotted down what he said. We can be so careless with our words, often without realizing what we’re proclaiming over ourselves. We repeat the doctor’s report, what we feel, or the state of our bank accounts instead of declaring what God has promised!
The passage above assures us that whenever two people come together and agree on earth about anything they ask in prayer, it will be done by God! Of course, this applies to requests that align with His will, but everything within His will is fulfilled! Hallelujah! That is a promise of God, and I love it. Here is another promise I often declare, especially when speaking my affirmations.
So shall my word be that goes forth out of my mouth. It shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:11, KJV
Isaiah 55:11 confirms that we should declare God’s promises rather than simply stating the facts. When we speak the facts, we’re often speaking our future! If we say, “I am broke,” we are inviting brokenness into our lives. If we say, “I am sick,” we are speaking sickness back into our bodies. Instead, we should declare the promises God has given us. For example, we can say, By God’s stripes, I am healed! When you receive a bad report from the doctor, repeat His promise: God has healed all my diseases (Psalm 103:2). When it seems like you are in lack, declare, Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing (Psalm 34:10) and My God will supply every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. We must train our mouths to align with all that God has promised us.
I remember a time when my body wasn’t cooperating with me, and I said to my body: Listen, you are a servant of the Most High God! You were made by God, you came through God, and you are here to serve God. I command you to be healed right now and to move! Pain, and anything holding this body back, release it now in the name of Jesus! My body began responding! If I’m honest, I was a little surprised. But as I saw my body functioning properly, I became bolder and spoke with even greater authority: Body, you serve the Most High God! Anything holding you back, I command you to release it now! We must take authority with the power and words God has given us. I believe in God’s promises, so I speak His promises with authority!
Key points:
The promises of God are guaranteed.
God is not a man that he should lie.
Speak his promises over your life.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Opposition
The Midianites, the Amalekites and all the other eastern peoples had settled in the valley, thick as locusts. Their camels could no more be counted than the sand on the seashore. Judges 7:12, ESV
God had called Gideon to attack the Midianites, Amalekites, and other eastern peoples who had settled on the seashore of Gideon’s home in Ophrah. The passage above says the army Gideon was up against was "thick as locusts," with numbers so vast they couldn’t be counted. When God calls us to do something, the odds often seem stacked against us! This is how God works—He makes it clear that it will be His power delivering us. He works through our natural abilities, infusing them with His supernatural power, so we know that it’s Him alone who brings the victory.
Gideon had an army of 32,000 individuals and God told Gideon that was too many and he downsized that army to three hundred men. I love how compassionate God is and that he recognizes our limitations. Even though God had told Gideon he was with him, there was still fear in Gideon’s heart.
Gideon initially had an army of 32,000 men, but God told him that was too many and he downsized it to 300. I love how compassionate God is, recognizing our limitations. Although He had assured Gideon of His presence, there was still fear in Gideon’s heart. So God in his amazing way of just being God, he encouraged Gideon.
During that night the Lord said to Gideon, “Get up, go down against the camp, because I am going to give it into your hands. 10 If you are afraid to attack, go down to the camp with your servant Purah and listen to what they are saying. Afterward, you will be encouraged to attack the camp.” So he and Purah his servant went down to the outposts of the camp. The Midianites, the Amalekites and all the other eastern peoples had settled in the valley, thick as locusts. Their camels could no more be counted than the sand on the seashore. Gideon arrived just as a man was telling a friend his dream. “I had a dream,” he was saying. “A round loaf of barley bread came tumbling into the Midianite camp. It struck the tent with such force that the tent overturned and collapsed.” His friend responded, “This can be nothing other than the sword of Gideon son of Joash, the Israelite. God has given the Midianites and the whole camp into his hands.” When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he bowed down and worshiped. He returned to the camp of Israel and called out, “Get up! The Lord has given the Midianite camp into your hands.” Judges 7:9-15, ESV
We serve the Omnipresent, Omniscience, Omnipotent God and he is aways on our side fighting the battle way before we get to the first interaction! Hallelujah! It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8, ESV
Key points:
Fear is a liar
The odds will always look like they are against us
The Omnipresent God has handled the opposition.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Night Call
The darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you. Psalm 139:12
We had a family wedding to attend, so our daughter and her family, along with our son, came home for the occasion. Our grandson is about six months old. One early morning, I was up writing and listening to God when I heard him crying. I heard my daughter get up, warm his bottle, and then head back upstairs to give him what he needed. After that, I noticed that I didn’t hear him anymore.
Since our grandson can’t yet tell his parents what he needs, they use an app to help. The app on their phone reminds them of his feeding times and nap schedule. His diapers have a blue line that indicates when he’s wet and needs changing. They prepare bottles, diapers, and everything he needs ahead of time, so when he cries, they’re ready to respond.
The Holy Spirit spoke to me, saying, I am always with you. You can speak to Me anytime, about anything. It doesn’t matter the time of day—I am always available. He reminded me that He knows our thoughts, and even before we speak a word, He knows what we’re going to say. He said, Your daughter uses all these tools because she doesn’t yet understand the language her son is speaking. He speaks from the realm he just came from, and she’s trying to help him communicate in this one. But I am God, and there is no realm I don’t know, for I created them all.
He reminded me of how the blood of the lamb was spread over the doorposts of the Israelites in Egypt. God had already prepared them for what was coming. He provided what they would need to eat, instructed them to be packed and ready to go, and even equipped them with wealth for their journey. Even in our darkest hour, whether we’ve brought the situation on ourselves or not, the Holy Spirit is with us, ready to give us direction. Scripture says, Even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you (Psalm 139:12). When we call on the name of the Lord, no matter the hour, He will come near and give us what we need.
Key points:
There is not a time in your life that God is not available.
He will answer you in your darkest hour and give you what you need.
He has already prepared everything for you.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Lesson in the Present
I was sitting outside in our backyard, writing, when I noticed a tiny, tiny creature, maybe the size of a pinhead, scurrying along my computer. My first thought was, God, how can there be life in something so small? I would not have even noticed it if it hadn’t been moving so fast. This prompted me to start writing. I was thinking that God shows us evidence of His majestic power and presence every day, but often we miss what’s right in front of us.
It was only a few weeks earlier, I’d felt a deep desire during prayer to ask God to let me experience Him in a new and different way. In reality, God was saying, Jacqueline, I need you to speak this word out loud, because I have more of Myself that I want to reveal to you. God places desires in our hearts, and we must speak them out for those things to manifest in our lives. I was speaking what God had already placed in my heart.
At that moment, I noticed another small spider on one of the chairs next to me. It was moving around and seemed to be looking directly at me. Although this one wasn’t as tiny as the first, I probably wouldn’t have seen it if it hadn’t been moving. It felt as if it were looking right into my eyes! It would turn in the opposite direction, then pause and look back at me before finally going on its way.
As I reflected, the Holy Spirit spoke to me, saying, So why are you afraid of any situation, circumstance, or person in this world? Why would you doubt Me? I made you fearless! Who else in this world can create life like this? There is absolutely no one and nothing greater than Me! Fear nothing! I began to praise God, feeling overwhelmed by this revelation. He used the smallest creature I could see on earth to help me understand that He is inexhaustible!
Key points:
YHWH I AM that I AM
ELOHIM, the Creator
He is in the present, don’t miss Him.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
God Answers
And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” Matthew 21:22, ESV
My husband is one who is very cautious about going up to strangers to talk with them about the Lord. He loves to share about the Lord, but he does not want to impose himself on anyone. So, when he came home from an errand and said he felt like the Lord said that we were to go talk to this unhoused person who had camped out along the bike trail down the street from our home, I was very surprised!
My husband was so serious! He said that God told him to take a bottle of water and give it to the individual and talk to him about Christ. So we walked down the trail together and there was the man sitting on a bench with all of his items all over the place. My husband spoke to him and introduced himself to the individual. He spoke back and my husband offered him the water. As they began to talk I just kept praying for God to take control. As my husband spoke and told the gentleman about the Lord, he listened and said that he knew God. But the more we talked to him the more we realized that there were some other mental issues that he was dealing with and he probably did not even realize it.
My husband asked him if we could pray for him and he accepted our prayer. Our encounter reminded me of how Jesus sent the disciples out two by two. They had no idea who they were going to meet and how the people were going to respond. But they obeyed God and moved. Walking with God requires us to walk in faith and trust that God will meet us where he send us. I’m not sure if the gentleman will remember much of what we said to him, but I know God prompted us, he had purpose for us going and he answered our prayers.
We may never get to witness how God moves in that man’s life, but our job was to move when the Holy Spirit told us to move and give him what we were directed to do. We can always give thanks to God for what he did in that individual’s life because the word says, “God’s word will never return to us void, but it will accomplish that which I desire and will prosper where to it was sent.” Isaiah 55:11 We have assurance that even if we don’t see God’s hands working in someone’s life, we know he never stops working.
Key points:
When God says move, go where he tells you.
When we speak his word it will never return void.
We may never see God working, but he never stops.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Watering
The Watering
But there went up a mist from the earth, and watered the whole face of the ground. Genesis 2:6
Mist: a cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere at or near the earth's surface that limits visibility (to a lesser extent than fog; strictly, with visibility remaining above 1 km (1,100 yards): the peaks were shrouded in mist | [in singular] : a mist rose out of the river.
• [in singular] a condensed vapor settling in fine droplets on a surface: a breeze cooled the mist of perspiration that had dampened her temples.
Before God caused rain to water the earth he had a way of ensuring that the garden would receive it’s nourishment. The earth and all the vegetation could not function without water. The Bible says he watered with a mist. I love how the fog settles on the earth. The plants get a complete drenching through the mist. You can see the fog, and feel the dampness, but you can’t really see the water. The ground becomes damp and little speckles of moisture will hit your face, but you can’t really tell how that is happening.
It reminds me so much of the Word of God. As believers, we cannot function without it—it is our lifeline; without it, we die! When we read the Word and meditate on it, a gentle mist begins to form in our spirits, and if we sit with it long enough, that mist transforms into a river of living water flowing out from within us.
For example, God was speaking to me about the plants in my garden. He showed me how each of those plants started from a single seed, and as each plant grew, it matured and produced abundant fruit. In the same way, this happens within us as we sit meditating on the Word. The seed that God has planted within us, fully equipped, begins to grow, mature, and produce fruit.
While God was showing me this example I was being saturated God He gives us revelation and understanding as we allow ourselves to be soaked in him. At the time God caused the mist to water the whole face of the ground, the ground did not move but received all the nourishment. We have to do the same thing to become all that he has anointed us to be.
As God showed me this example, I was being saturated, through the misting of his words. He gives us revelation and understanding when we allow ourselves to be soaked in Him. Just as, in the beginning, God caused a mist to water the whole face of the ground, which simply received the nourishment, so we too must remain still in His presence to receive all He has for us.
I have no idea how a tiny seed can yield a reservoir of fruit, but under the right conditions and with proper watering, it happens. The same is true for us—God’s miraculous works happen!
Key points:
You have a revisor of fruit inside of you.
Manifestation comes with the word.
The Word of God is your complete and only source.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Helper
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. John 14:26
Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to the disciples so they would have all the help they needed to accomplish the work He had ordained for them. That same Holy Spirit lives within every believer today.
The Holy Spirit is our helper. Jesus sent Him to assist us.
He is our Comforter, providing solace in times of sorrow.
Our Advocate, pleading on our behalf.
Our Intercessor, intervening and interceding for us.
Our Strengthener, making us stronger when we are weak.
Our Standby, a reliable resource we can always depend on.
Our Advisor, offering counsel and guidance.
The Holy Spirit works in such remarkable ways. I had just gotten my nails done less than a week earlier, and my thumbnail cracked. I thought I could simply wrap a bandage around it and it would be fine, but then my other thumbnail cracked in the middle and started catching on my clothes. I realized I needed to make an appointment to fix these two nails, but I kept putting it off. Then my index fingernail started breaking too, and I thought, "What is going on with these nails? This has never happened to me before." So I sent a text to my nail technician to schedule an appointment and she had an opening the next day.
Normally, when I visit my nail technician, we talk about family, the Lord, and how God works in our lives. We had talked a little about her fiancé before, but not much. This time, however, I asked her how he was doing, and she began to open up about the struggles they were facing. She had told him that she no longer wanted to be in the relationship, but as soon as she said it, she felt God telling her it wasn’t the right decision. Still, she was so angry that she wanted to end it. She said that on the very same day she received my text asking to come in and fix my nails.
She said, “I knew God was sending me help.” God loves us so much that he allowed my nails to break so that I would schedule an appointment, and he could use me to encourage her with his words. There is no problem too difficult for God, and he is always there to give us the encouragement and direction we need! He loves us so much that he will change someone else's schedule just to reach us and show us his care!
Key points:
The fullness of God dwells within you.
God goes out of his way to encourage us.
Even when we make mistakes God is not mad at us.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Trusting God
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6, KJV
My husband asked me what I was doing on August 1st. Whenever he asks a question like that, I get the feeling there's something he wants me to do that I don’t want to do, so he's checking to see if I already have plans. I replied, "I don’t know, why?" He said, "A friend of mine wants us to come over for dinner." I asked, "What friend?" and he responded, "Jacqueline from Facebook." I was like, "What? No!" and that sparked a heated discussion. I eventually gave in and said okay because I truly had nothing on my calendar, but I was upset that he would even suggest something like that. I didn’t feel it was safe.
Then a quiet voice in my head asked, "Do you trust the God in your husband?" When I heard those words, a sense of peace came over me. But my mind quickly shifted back to how illogical it seemed to go to someone's home for dinner when I had never met them. I started getting angry again. A flood of emotions ran through me, and part of me felt this was an attack from the enemy, but I couldn’t let go because it didn’t make sense. When my husband tried to reassure me that Jacqueline was a nice person, I reacted aggressively. He tried to calm me down and, realizing this may not have been the best idea, promised never to do it again.
On the day of the dinner, I still felt a lot of resistance and pressure, so I asked God for help again. In His humorous way, He sent me one of my own devotionals, titled Trust God! I knew then that the spiritual warfare I was experiencing was from Satan, who didn’t want me to go. After praying, my spirit calmed, and I said, "God, I trust You.”
When we arrived at Jacqueline’s home, she was the sweetest woman, and her spirit radiated God’s presence. His light shined through her. We didn’t get to meet her husband, as he had to work late, but she explained that they were believers and just wanted to connect with other married couples who loved God. They had been married for four years, and she had been following my husband’s posts for over eleven years. She said she could tell through his posts that we had a heart for God. My husband had met her once, nine years earlier, at one of the wineries where his band was playing.
I believe the entire situation was a setup for my growth and to reveal where my faith in God stood. Every day, God is taking us to a new level of faith. Moving in faith requires letting go of control, no matter how irrational things may seem. God didn’t want me to trust in my husband or in my own common sense—He wanted me to trust Him! I realized that day that I was still clinging to control, but I also reached a new level of faith by letting go. I know there will be other tests in different circumstances, but I pray that when they come, I will follow Proverbs 3:5-6 with all my heart: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.
Key points:
Trust means releasing control to God.
Depending on common sense can hinder your faith.
God is truly watching over you.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Hidden Thoughts
Every morning I spend time listening to an encouraging word. I always asked the Holy Spirit who should I listen to for encouragement for the day. This one particular morning the name of a person came up in my spirit that I had not listened to in years and I was not really fond of him. I said to myself, “I don’t know why that name came up in my spirit.” Now I had just asked God, but because God had me listening to someone else for weeks, I thought for sure I was supposed to be listening to him and so that is what I did. But then the following day I asked God the same question and that same first person’s name rose up in my spirit. I was like, “God, is this who you want me to listen to?” And I could feel the presence of his peace in my spirit.
So I tuned in to listen to the individual and I found that there was so much judgment in my spirit. I was like, “I don’t know if I like the way they are explaining the message.” I could hardly hear the message for all the stuff that was coming out of my mind. I literally stopped the YouTube video and I began to pray for myself. I repented and asked God to help me. Literally after that prayer things changed. The message that God had me listen to was all about what we had been studying at our church. The teacher actually brought clarity to some of the questions that I had in my own heart!
What I believe God wanted me to see is that I had no idea that I was carrying around judgment for someone that I had never met. I had heard some negative things about this individual, but I did not know it had seeped into my spirit. I’m reminded of what Dr. Juanita Bynum said, “You cannot sit and listen to negativity and it not affect you.” I had no idea that the comments I heard someone else say about this individual had landed so deeply inside of me that judgment had filled my heart of that person.
God is the revealer of our soul. When Jesus taught the disciples the Lord’s prayer he added “And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us”. Everyday we need to seek God for forgiveness of our sins. It is hard to see sin creeping up in our hearts. Scripture says “…to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ…,” That means any thought, good or bad, because in truth we have no idea of the source of the thought and what it can do to our soul.
God is consistently transforming us into the image of him. Our thoughts can take on a character of its own and if we are not paying attention we will be like that wild branch that needs to be pruned. But praise God that he prunes us!
Key points:
Your thoughts reveal your heart.
Our thoughts are invisible, but extremely powerful.
Lay your thoughts on Jehovah and walk in his power.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
The Unknown
And he said to him, “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here. Exodus 33:15, AMP
In the passage above Moses says to God, “If your presence is not going with me then, I’m not going.” God had given Moses the assignment to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt and into the promise land. Moses was saying to God, “I will go if you go with me. But if you are not going, I am staying put.”
When God gives us an assignment, the unknown is always present! What stops many from moving forward is the fear of the unknown. To walk in the unknown means we have to shift. We shake when we are afraid of the shift and we are afraid of the shift because of the unknown. We have to become more confident in the one who is leading us into the unknown.
We must remember that God is in control of everything and what he has called us to he will not leave us. Actually the assignment is an invitation to come closer to God. If we just look at some of the patriarchs in the Bible we will see how each individual who moved in the unknown grew closer to God. Look at Gideon in Judges 6. When God sent the angel to him, the angel called Gideon the mighty warrior and told him to deliver Israel out of the Median’s hand. Gideon said, “How can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest, and I am the least in my family.”
God had called Gideon to the unknown and Gideon was looking at what he knew. But Gideon said, “Yes” to the Lord and God gave him victory. We learn that his relationship and faith grew in trusting God. If you read further in the book of Judges, you will see that Gideon had 32,000 men to march with him to defeat the Midianites. But God had him reduce the army to 300 men. God wanted all of Israel to know that it was him who delivered them out of the hand of their enemies.
In every assignment that God calls us to it will require courage and a deeper relationship with him. Just like Peter learned that walking on water requires keeping your eyes on Jesus. So each of us will need to do the same thing. Stepping out into the unknown is walking hand in hand into a deeper relationship with our Father! Hallelujah! He loves us so much that he invites us to walk closer with him!
Key points:
Shifting requires trust.
The unknown is an invitation to a deeper relationship with our Father
The unknown increases your faith.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Taylor Made
Ages ago I was set up, at the first, before the beginning of the earth. Proverbs 8:23, ESV
I love the passage above because it speaks about wisdom and that she was here before the beginning of the earth. I always marvel when I read a passage that says something was here before anything was started. What simply amazes me is that we were all here before God brought us to the earth, because we all came from him. Romans 11:36
Absolutely nothing was here except God. He literally took from himself and created it all. I guess that is why Psalm 139:16 is one of my favorites. Your eyes saw me when I was formless; all my days were written in your book and planned before a single one of them began. That passage among many others makes it so clear that we can rest in the creator ELOHIM.
If we could just take the time to sit with God and let his spirit speak into our soul we would understand that we have been custom made for the time that we are living in. This season of circumstance, issues and whatever is going on in this world or in our lives, we were hand chosen and prepared for! He has everyday of our lives planned out. Yet, he has given each of us the choice to choose to walk with him in that plan. In ELHOIM’s master plan it included each and every one of us who are on the earth today to do his work and enjoy the abundant life he ordained before we were born!
The instructions our creator gave us was to seek first the ADONAI the MASTER, we would live in complete peace, joy, success and prosperity. Success has always been his plan for our lives. He said to meditate on the word of God day and night, so that we may be careful to do everything written in it. Then we would l be prosperous and successful. Every problem and situation that we face, God has already handled it. You have already been prepared for what you face, we just need to check in with the Holy Spirit for instructions on how to move.
Key points:
ELOHIM designed a tailored made plan for your life. The plan gives you the desires of your heart.
Success happens with meditating on the word day and night.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Prepared
…and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. Luke 3:22, ESV
I love how God always prepares us for what is coming. Many times we have no idea that he is making a way. Our Bishop told the congregation at the beginning of the year that he would be teaching us about the Holy Spirit for the whole year.. I love that this is the teaching we are receiving. I have no idea what is coming, but I know the Holy Spirit in a more personal and intimate way. I know without a shadow of doubt that I can count on the Holy Spirit and he will never leave me!
A few Sundays ago our Bishop started a new series about the symbols of the Holy Spirit. The first symbol he spoke of was the about the dove. Scripture said that after Jesus was baptized the Holy Spirit descend upon him like a dove. Luke 3:21-22. Our Bishop shared that we are to look at the characteristics of a dove and it will tell us what the Holy Spirit is like. So he described to us the characteristics of a dove: gentle, pure, clean, constant in love, and eats what is clean. When I returned home after service I looked up the words that described the characteristics of a dove and I just meditated on it for a while.
Later in the week, God would have me and my niece to minister to someone and it required all the characteristics of a dove. Gentleness, kindness, loving and not being specific to the letter of the law. This individual wanted all that God had to offer him. He was in search of it, but the route he was taking seemed to have had some Christians criticizing him. When we asked him if we could pray for him, he wanted prayer, but he was very defensive about his process.
God had prepared our hearts so that we listened and never put down the path he thought he needed to take. We both knew that God had sent us to show him his unconditional love. When he finished sharing, which was about thirty minuets, he was open to receive all that God had us to share with him. When we finished he was in tears and the Holy Spirit showered down on him in a way that he did not know what to say! My niece and I later talked and we were so thankful to God for the message that he had put in our hearts days before! God used us so that this gentleman’s soul could hear all the Lord wanted to give to him!
Key point:
God always prepares us for what is ahead. We never have to fear what we are going to say.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Nothing is Lost
Many times in our life we may feel that what God has called us to do has ended because we did not move in time. The thing that God has given you to do is for you. God is waiting for you to come into divine alignment with him so that he can manifest that thing in you. I love that God puts desires in our heart for the ministry that he has given each of us. The seed sits inside of us waiting for us to plant it in our spirit and walk hand in hand with the Holy Spirit. The seed never leaves.
It reminds me of my garden, I have a variety of seeds to plant, but if I do not plant them I will not see the fruit. The seeds are actually packed away in envelopes in a box in my closet. The fruit of those seeds are not lost. The abundance of the fruit still sits in my closet. It is not lost; I just have to plant them in the right season. See, even my seeds have to be in alignment with the season or they will not grow!
Although we have the seed in us, if we are out of divine alignment with God it can’t manifest according to God’s plan when are not in alignment with him. Alignment: the act of aligning or state of being aligned. So how do we align ourselves with God? When apostle Paul was speaking to the Romans he said, I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. We align ourselves through the word of God by giving over our will to him.
In Proverbs it says to, Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 We must make sure that we are acknowledging God in all that we do. That means to check in with him in everything. I have come to the place where when I get up in the morning I ask God, “What am I supposed to read in order to minister to my soul today? What would you like me to wear?” We must remember that we were brought here on assignment by him and for him. He gives us choices, but we have to choose to walk with him. We must also do as the word says to keep our heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 4:23
Many times I will just listen to a message over and over again because I want that message in my thoughts and rooted in my heart. So I will repeat it. Think about the songs that you listen to. If you play them enough they will be in your head and on your heart, which will then be spoken out of your mouth. When we draw near to God, he draws near to us. Draw near to God and he will work through you that ministry that you thought was lost! Remember Moses was eighty years old when he became the leader of the Israelites. Do not give up on God!
Key points:
We align ourselves through the word of God.
We do not concern ourselves with what we see, or how things look. We keep our eyes on God.
What we say out of our mouths, is what we will reap in life. Keep your words aligned with God.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Move
I love having my quiet time with God. I have set a time everyday at 5:00 pm to meet with God where ever he directs me. Sometimes it is in my prayer room, sometimes it is out on a walk and other times it can be in a coffee shop. Wherever he tells me to go I follow.
Now after saying all of that, I still have this idea of how my prayer time should go. I do not take my cell phone with me during my prayer time and many times I take off my watch because it can be a distraction. I want to hear all of what he is going to say to me. So on this particular day I was sitting outside in the back yard writing what was in my spirit and just listening to him speak. In the midst of all of those moments these two companies that were hiring came into my mind. I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit saying to call my niece and tell her about those companies. I thought okay, I will call her when I am finished with my time in prayer.
We all know that prayer is a dialog and I said I was listening for all God had to say to me. He was speaking and I was not moving. Then I felt this pressure on my heart to move right then. I said to God, “You want me to get my cell phone and call her now?" I did not hear him answer, but I could feel him directing my path. I immediately went and got my phone and called my niece. The call went to voice mail and as I was leaving a message she picked up. I told her that I was in prayer and I felt that the Holy Spirit wanted me to tell her about these two companies that were hiring. After I finished giving her the information, she said, “God is so good!” Then she preceded to tell me that she had just finished praying asking God where he wanted her to apply for a job. Then the phone rang and it was me with the answer! Hallelujah!
It does not matter what you are doing or whom it is that God directs you to, when he says move, move! We are his mouth, hands and feet and he is constantly answering prayers through those who have said “yes” to him. Amen.
Key points:
God’s direction is not usually a part of our plan.
Timing with him is immediate, do not hesitate.
We have been hand selected for such a time as this.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss
Preparation
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10, ESVs
The weather in Sacramento was going to be in the triple digits. I knew this would impact my garden. So, early in the morning I would get up and give the garden a deep watering. I wanted to make sure that it had what it needed for the high heat. One part of the garden gets the really high sun, I put a shade over it so that the plant could survive the high temperatures.
While I was out there watering and getting things prepared, God said, “This is what I do for you. Right now your church is in a series on the Holy Spirit. I am teaching you all that you will need to know for the season that is ahead. When I bring you a word it is preparing you for what is ahead. Do not think that a word that comes to you is just a good message. It is for now and the season ahead. It is preparing you so that you are fully equipped to face what every trail that will come.”
Remember Shadach, Meshach and Abednego and the test they had to go through. God had prepared them for what was ahead. Promotion was coming, but they had to go through the test. They said to the king If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Daniel 3 God had prepared them for the trail they would face.
They had to go through the fire to get to the other side. Just like my plants had to go through the triple digit heat for weeks, but they had been prepared. The only way my plants could produce the fruit was to go through some hardships. It is the same way with us. We will have to go through the trials, but God will never leave us. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever…John 14:16. Hallelujah!
Key points:
Whatever you are going through, preparation has already been made.
You are being prepared for what is ahead.
Even in the fire, he will never leave you.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19, Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCCMinistriestv:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoEcr3koSqRbqVma5EGWgA/videos
My published books are now available at:https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life%27s+Journey+volume+2+Jacqueline+Crooks&language=en_US&ref=nb_sb_noss