BREAKING NEWS: "In this world where there are seasons and times, This is your season --- Its YOUR time to shine again!"
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
BREAKING NEWS: He Does Mighty Things
BREAKING NEWS: "He does mighty things, He does glorious things, He's a faithful God and Awesome is His name. there's no one like Him."
Monday, September 29, 2014
BREAKING NEWS: All Things Are Possible
BREAKING NEWS: "All things are possible When we call on his name, All things are possible In Jesus name! Mountains will crumble! Chains shall be broken! All things are possible In Jesus name! It doesn’t matter what you’re going through, It doesn’t matter how far you’ve gone. All things are possible in Jesus name!"
Monday, April 28, 2014
Lessons of Faith 16: "Is My Program Working?"
I was helping one of my teen young men from Kingston with his SBA (Student Based Assessment) for the CXC (Caribbean Examination Council) exams coming up when something occured to me. I have been a programmer in high level languages, such as Cobol, Fortran, Pascal etc, and low level languages (my preference) such as Assembler and never thought of them and their functioning in terms of Spiritual law.
However, today as I worked on a Pascal program I noticed that 95% of the syntax that this young man had coded was flawed with errors. Equal '=' signs were in the wrong place, colons and equals were placed in the wrong section ":=" and the result was from the beginning a deck of compilation errors.
The errors began in the second line and there were about seventy or so lines of code. From the beginning the program was flawed and would not even begin to run. I corrected about 50% of it, and then spoke with him about the problem, gave some pointers and left him, using the correct syntax and procedures to continue with his program.
Our Father (God) provides us with a book of instructions, rather detailed and syntax laden with how we engage him (through salvation); How we live in him, by faith and he provides us with the appropriate template for living a successful christian life in the earth.
Some of us come wanting to use our own methods, our own ways and then expect God to move because of who we are or what we think. God is God, in Jamaica we say "GOD A GOD!" We do not exist in a democratic Kingdom, it is his way not our opinion that counts.
Do you want your 'program' to run syntax free? Then find out what the Bible, God's own Word says and see what the Kingdom will do for you. Laws of the Kingdom are like the syntax of the computer, abuse or ignore them and suffer the consequence or we may respect and comply with them and reap the untold benefits of God's Kingdom blessings.
Blessings my friends.
Pastor Winston
Monday, April 21, 2014
Lessons of Faith 15: AM I HEARING FROM GOD?
As I drove to Ocho Rios yesterday and approached the Retreat community turnoff, I was prompted by the Spirit to go to The school if one of my boys. This was now the fourth occasion in as many months that The Lord has spoken to me about this school and student in this way.
As I arrived at the school, pulled into the parking lot and walked from the car, the students in My boy's classroom began to gather at the window looking at me from upstairs. The principal had just stepped out of her office and had a look of surprise on her face. It just happened that a short while before, she had just intervened in a situation with my youngster and other boys. My arrival apparently surprised everyone. But that is the how all if us should be in hearing and flowing in the spirit of God.
I decided to sit in the classroom just to observe the teacher and student interaction. The teacher was informed and I proceeded from the principals office to 9-GH and Mr Rose's Social Studies class.
As I sat there my attention was drawn to the seated postures, the poorly lit room, and an atmosphere of failure and defeat that I could cut with a knife, so thick and obvious it was. In a class of about 30, four girls only, not one student had a text book or writing book open, none could sufficiently articulate a point, expressions and grammar were missing the mark and the sheer lack of respect for the teacher and fellow students was eye opening.
After 15 minutes I made my exit with most of the students waving goodbye but with a heavy heart. I walked to my car reliving the sacrifices of our forefathers, their anguish, pain and their blood shed to assure this freedom that we have to be educated and it pained my innermost being, I groaned within. I was overcome with emotion for Christ himself also suffered and died for this liberty and present opportunities we all have.
What can I do, Lord? Was my question, how do I help in changing what I've just seen? He answered throughout the afternoon as I cloistered myself to seek him on this issue. Lord help us to help them
As I arrived at the school, pulled into the parking lot and walked from the car, the students in My boy's classroom began to gather at the window looking at me from upstairs. The principal had just stepped out of her office and had a look of surprise on her face. It just happened that a short while before, she had just intervened in a situation with my youngster and other boys. My arrival apparently surprised everyone. But that is the how all if us should be in hearing and flowing in the spirit of God.
I decided to sit in the classroom just to observe the teacher and student interaction. The teacher was informed and I proceeded from the principals office to 9-GH and Mr Rose's Social Studies class.
As I sat there my attention was drawn to the seated postures, the poorly lit room, and an atmosphere of failure and defeat that I could cut with a knife, so thick and obvious it was. In a class of about 30, four girls only, not one student had a text book or writing book open, none could sufficiently articulate a point, expressions and grammar were missing the mark and the sheer lack of respect for the teacher and fellow students was eye opening.
After 15 minutes I made my exit with most of the students waving goodbye but with a heavy heart. I walked to my car reliving the sacrifices of our forefathers, their anguish, pain and their blood shed to assure this freedom that we have to be educated and it pained my innermost being, I groaned within. I was overcome with emotion for Christ himself also suffered and died for this liberty and present opportunities we all have.
What can I do, Lord? Was my question, how do I help in changing what I've just seen? He answered throughout the afternoon as I cloistered myself to seek him on this issue. Lord help us to help them
Monday, April 14, 2014
REVIVAL PRAYER: 13 Declarations For Jamaica - Part 1
1. Eternal Father bless our land
The LORD will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The LORD your God will bless you in the land he is giving you. Deuteronomy 28:8 NIV
Blessing our land seems limited, just see the economy and woes that have come to the nation for the last 52 years, we had started well but systematic targeting of our leadership and pillars of influence have created a nation where some wonder if there is any way for us to recover.
Today we contend for the blessing! Father, I speak blessings, the ability and opportunity to prosper spiritually, economically and socially. Let Jehovah Jireh truly be manifested in the Church and throughout the nation. Revive us again...
Monday, April 7, 2014
Lessons of Faith 16: "Is My Programming Working?"
I was helping one of my teen young men from Kingston with his SBA (Student
Based Assessment) for the CXC (Caribbean Examination Council) exams coming up
when something occured to me. I have been a programmer in high level
languages, such as Cobol, Fortran, Pascal etc, and low level languages (my
preference) such as Assembler and never thought of them and their functioning in
terms of Spiritual law.
However, today as I worked on a Pascal program I noticed that 95% of the syntax that this young man had coded was flawed with errors. Equal '=' signs were in the wrong place, colons and equals were placed in the wrong section ":=" and the result was from the beginning a deck of compilation errors.
The errors began in the second line and there were about seventy or so lines of code. From the beginning the program was flawed and would not even begin to run. I corrected about 50% of it, and then spoke with him about the problem, gave some pointers and left him, using the correct syntax and procedures to continue with his program.
Our Father (God) provides us with a book of instructions, rather detailed and syntax laden with how we engage him (through salvation); How we live in him, by faith and he provides us with the appropriate template for living a successful christian life in the earth.
Some of us come wanting to use our own methods, our own ways and then expect God to move because of who we are or what we think. God is God, in Jamaica we say "GOD A GOD!" We do not exist in a democratic Kingdom, it is his way not our opinion that counts.
Do you want your 'program' to run syntax free? Then find out what the Bible, God's own Word says and see what the Kingdom will do for you. Laws of the Kingdom are like the syntax of the computer, abuse or ignore them and suffer the consequence or we may respect and comply with them and reap the untold benefits of God's Kingdom blessings.
Blessings my friends.
Pastor Winston
However, today as I worked on a Pascal program I noticed that 95% of the syntax that this young man had coded was flawed with errors. Equal '=' signs were in the wrong place, colons and equals were placed in the wrong section ":=" and the result was from the beginning a deck of compilation errors.
The errors began in the second line and there were about seventy or so lines of code. From the beginning the program was flawed and would not even begin to run. I corrected about 50% of it, and then spoke with him about the problem, gave some pointers and left him, using the correct syntax and procedures to continue with his program.
Our Father (God) provides us with a book of instructions, rather detailed and syntax laden with how we engage him (through salvation); How we live in him, by faith and he provides us with the appropriate template for living a successful christian life in the earth.
Some of us come wanting to use our own methods, our own ways and then expect God to move because of who we are or what we think. God is God, in Jamaica we say "GOD A GOD!" We do not exist in a democratic Kingdom, it is his way not our opinion that counts.
Do you want your 'program' to run syntax free? Then find out what the Bible, God's own Word says and see what the Kingdom will do for you. Laws of the Kingdom are like the syntax of the computer, abuse or ignore them and suffer the consequence or we may respect and comply with them and reap the untold benefits of God's Kingdom blessings.
Blessings my friends.
Pastor Winston
Monday, March 31, 2014
Lessons of Faith 15: AM I HEARING FROM GOD?
Lessons of Faith 15: AM I HEARING FROM GOD?
As I drove to Ocho Rios yesterday and approached the Retreat community
turnoff, I was prompted by the Spirit to go to The school if one of my boys.
This was now the fourth occasion in as many months that The Lord has spoken to
me about this school and student in this way.
As I arrived at the school, pulled into the parking lot and walked from the car, the students in My boy's classroom began to gather at the window looking at me from upstairs. The principal had just stepped out of her office and had a look of surprise on her face. It just happened that a short while before, she had just intervened in a situation with my youngster and other boys. My arrival apparently surprised everyone. But that is the how all if us should be in hearing and flowing in the spirit of God.
I decided to sit in the classroom just to observe the teacher and student interaction. The teacher was informed and I proceeded from the principals office to 9-GH and Mr Rose's Social Studies class.
As I sat there my attention was drawn to the seated postures, the poorly lit room, and an atmosphere of failure and defeat that I could cut with a knife, so thick and obvious it was. In a class of about 30, four girls only, not one student had a text book or writing book open, none could sufficiently articulate a point, expressions and grammar were missing the mark and the sheer lack of respect for the teacher and fellow students was eye opening.
After 15 minutes I made my exit with most of the students waving goodbye but with a heavy heart. I walked to my car reliving the sacrifices of our forefathers, their anguish, pain and their blood shed to assure this freedom that we have to be educated and it pained my innermost being, I groaned within. I was overcome with emotion for Christ himself also suffered and died for this liberty and present opportunities we all have.
What can I do, Lord? Was my question, how do I help in changing what I've just seen? He answered throughout the afternoon as I cloistered myself to seek him on this issue. Lord help us to help them
Monday, March 24, 2014
Lessons of Faith 14: "A Telling Christian Relationship, Naila and Sharon Ricketts"
Lessons of Faith 14: "A Telling Christian Relationship, Naila and Sharon Ricketts"
I came in late this morning from an all night prayer event in Kingston and
while driving my heart was pondering one event of the evening and several
encounters with my Brother Rev. Naila Ricketts and his wife Sharon.
Last night as I walked into the Sanctuary of Tarrant Baptist Church I noted Sister Sharon busy ensuring that guests were met, properly greeted, seated and I'm sure doing a myriad of other things within her portfolio of responsibility that evening.
As I have watched these two for the several years that I have known them, I have never seen an offensive gesture between them, I've never heard a terse or angry word exchanged, and I Have not sensed any degree of competition.
What I have perceived is a loving, loyal, respectful Abraham and Sarah like relationship that speaks volumes to us in the body of Christ. I watched last night as Sister Sharon led two periods of praise and worship and each time was so synchronized with Brother Ricketts and it was obvious she wanted to be and was not just acting so out of coercion or dogmatic authority. She would glance in his direction for his next cue to continue or adjust.
Brother Naila depends on her, leans on her, and has an undeniable love and affection for her that he does not offer to another. The Apostle Paul's writing about the man and his wife in the book of Ephesians is embodied in this marriage that I have observed for the past few years. I know, by way of testimony in meetings, not divine revelation, of some of the challenges they both faced when my brother left his secular business, the financial hardships and devil crafted devices that came against them. With all of the storms, he testifies of the resilience, support and encouragement that Sister Sharon gave him during those seasons of significant change In their life's direction and purpose. She wanted what God wanted and that's and amazing woman.
I must also note how she moves in the shadows, she has not received, at least publicly, the same accolades as he does but I don't perceive her ever saying "what about me?" Without the second string no musical instrument offers its greatest potential only a cacophony of sounds. What a pleasing rhythm is created when they work well together! I could say much more from my observations at conventions and in their office, but I believe these few words sufficient In sharing my observations this morning.
Brother Naila, I admire the example you portray as a minister of the sanctuary and as a husband. Sister Sharon, undoubtably a woman that is the personification of a submitted heart toward The Lord and her husband. May The Lord continue to bless your union and your ministry.
I chose this forum to share my experience with this couple for many see the opposite in some Christian relationships. May God continue to open our eyes.
Pastor Winston
Last night as I walked into the Sanctuary of Tarrant Baptist Church I noted Sister Sharon busy ensuring that guests were met, properly greeted, seated and I'm sure doing a myriad of other things within her portfolio of responsibility that evening.
As I have watched these two for the several years that I have known them, I have never seen an offensive gesture between them, I've never heard a terse or angry word exchanged, and I Have not sensed any degree of competition.
What I have perceived is a loving, loyal, respectful Abraham and Sarah like relationship that speaks volumes to us in the body of Christ. I watched last night as Sister Sharon led two periods of praise and worship and each time was so synchronized with Brother Ricketts and it was obvious she wanted to be and was not just acting so out of coercion or dogmatic authority. She would glance in his direction for his next cue to continue or adjust.
Brother Naila depends on her, leans on her, and has an undeniable love and affection for her that he does not offer to another. The Apostle Paul's writing about the man and his wife in the book of Ephesians is embodied in this marriage that I have observed for the past few years. I know, by way of testimony in meetings, not divine revelation, of some of the challenges they both faced when my brother left his secular business, the financial hardships and devil crafted devices that came against them. With all of the storms, he testifies of the resilience, support and encouragement that Sister Sharon gave him during those seasons of significant change In their life's direction and purpose. She wanted what God wanted and that's and amazing woman.
I must also note how she moves in the shadows, she has not received, at least publicly, the same accolades as he does but I don't perceive her ever saying "what about me?" Without the second string no musical instrument offers its greatest potential only a cacophony of sounds. What a pleasing rhythm is created when they work well together! I could say much more from my observations at conventions and in their office, but I believe these few words sufficient In sharing my observations this morning.
Brother Naila, I admire the example you portray as a minister of the sanctuary and as a husband. Sister Sharon, undoubtably a woman that is the personification of a submitted heart toward The Lord and her husband. May The Lord continue to bless your union and your ministry.
I chose this forum to share my experience with this couple for many see the opposite in some Christian relationships. May God continue to open our eyes.
Pastor Winston
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Lessons of Faith 13: "God Understands?"
Lessons of Faith 13: "God Understands?"
Over the last few days I've listened to Pastor George Delaney share on the
topic "what in the world am I here for?" I really started thinking about the
subject and especially in reference to the life of Joseph.
Joseph had a dream which showed him a bit of his destiny but not how he would get there. The Lords plan involved several 'assignments' in his life. Each assignment had its own set of tests and passing was critical to getting to the next level of God's plan.
The Pit, Potiphar's house, the Prison, Paraoah's Palace, the visit of his brothers to obtain grain were all assignments. The tests showed either Godly character and integrity or shows the lack of it. I thought on this for a while and was moved by Joseph's consistent commitment to his Faith and righteousness.
I wonder what we would have done faced with the same conditions? Many of us cut corners, fall shy of integrity and good character and believe that God 'understands.' In Jamaica, ethics seem to depend on 'what is in it for me' or depend on 'who's doing what.' Righteousness depends on personal interpretation of the scripture and not on God's Biblical injunction against unholy and unrighteous conduct.
Our 'purposed' destination in Christ is only achievable when we live each assignment and come out of the testing phase with God's result and not our crafty and carnal device. Lord, take me through each season of assignment and craft each test to bring me forth as pure gold. AMEN
Joseph had a dream which showed him a bit of his destiny but not how he would get there. The Lords plan involved several 'assignments' in his life. Each assignment had its own set of tests and passing was critical to getting to the next level of God's plan.
The Pit, Potiphar's house, the Prison, Paraoah's Palace, the visit of his brothers to obtain grain were all assignments. The tests showed either Godly character and integrity or shows the lack of it. I thought on this for a while and was moved by Joseph's consistent commitment to his Faith and righteousness.
I wonder what we would have done faced with the same conditions? Many of us cut corners, fall shy of integrity and good character and believe that God 'understands.' In Jamaica, ethics seem to depend on 'what is in it for me' or depend on 'who's doing what.' Righteousness depends on personal interpretation of the scripture and not on God's Biblical injunction against unholy and unrighteous conduct.
Our 'purposed' destination in Christ is only achievable when we live each assignment and come out of the testing phase with God's result and not our crafty and carnal device. Lord, take me through each season of assignment and craft each test to bring me forth as pure gold. AMEN
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
GOD UNDERSTANDS?
Over the last few days I've listened to Pastor George Delaney share on the topic "what in the world am I here for?" I really started thinking about the subject and especially in reference to the life of Joseph.
Joseph had a dream which showed him a bit of his destiny but not how he would get there. The Lords plan involved several 'assignments' in his life. Each assignment had its own set of tests and passing was critical to getting to the next level of God's plan.
The Pit, Potiphar's house, the Prison, Paraoah's Palace, the visit of his brothers to obtain grain were all assignments. The tests showed either Godly character and integrity or shows the lack of it. I thought on this for a while and was moved by Joseph's consistent commitment to his Faith and righteousness.
I wonder what we would have done faced with the same conditions? Many of us cut corners, fall shy of integrity and good character and believe that God 'understands.' In Jamaica, ethics seem to depend on 'what is in it for me' or depend on 'who's doing what.' Righteousness depends on personal interpretation of the scripture and not on God's Biblical injunction against unholy and unrighteous conduct.
Our 'purposed' destination in Christ is only achievable when we live each assignment and come out of the testing phase with God's result and not our crafty and carnal device. Lord, take me through each season of assignment and craft each test to bring me forth as pure gold. AMEN
Joseph had a dream which showed him a bit of his destiny but not how he would get there. The Lords plan involved several 'assignments' in his life. Each assignment had its own set of tests and passing was critical to getting to the next level of God's plan.
The Pit, Potiphar's house, the Prison, Paraoah's Palace, the visit of his brothers to obtain grain were all assignments. The tests showed either Godly character and integrity or shows the lack of it. I thought on this for a while and was moved by Joseph's consistent commitment to his Faith and righteousness.
I wonder what we would have done faced with the same conditions? Many of us cut corners, fall shy of integrity and good character and believe that God 'understands.' In Jamaica, ethics seem to depend on 'what is in it for me' or depend on 'who's doing what.' Righteousness depends on personal interpretation of the scripture and not on God's Biblical injunction against unholy and unrighteous conduct.
Our 'purposed' destination in Christ is only achievable when we live each assignment and come out of the testing phase with God's result and not our crafty and carnal device. Lord, take me through each season of assignment and craft each test to bring me forth as pure gold. AMEN
Monday, February 24, 2014
Lessons of Faith 12: DETERMINED TO RESIST
Yesterday, February 23, was our morning slot at the local prison. The meeting went well, The Lord showed up tremendously as we ministered to the men. But something really challenged me in the atmosphere of ministry.
At one point I felt a great resistance and asked all gathered to stand with me and pray, we did and then discoverd there were some men outside who found it necesaray to leave the large campus and find their way to the chapel to create confusion. Well, it was not to be and that was subdued.
As we left, the youngest of the three was very mouthy, not directly toward us but speaking loud enough with his two friends for us to hear. "Babylon nah change mi," "mi madda and fadda nah change mi." "not even God caan change mi."
As I contemplated the situation in prayer, the Spirit of The Lord made an interesting observation and issued a question. Why did they leave where they had been, far away, to come to the chapel and to oppose God? In prayer that morning we made a specific statement and declared that we issued a divine summons to draw all that should come to the service that morning to know The Lord. Several we had seen while we were walking to the chapel came as prompted by the spirit of grace, and these also came.
The Lord said to me, I'm calling them, I'm wooing them, I'm touching them and i am winning them. They do not know it yet but the opposing force of evil in and around them is offering great opposition but He (God) wins. I therefore continue to pray for these three young men, Rastafarians, two that seemed subdued to the Holy Spirit and one seemed determined to resist Him. "Lord I break the stronghold of the enemy over these young men and I pray for their deliverance and salvation, inJesus name... Amen"
At one point I felt a great resistance and asked all gathered to stand with me and pray, we did and then discoverd there were some men outside who found it necesaray to leave the large campus and find their way to the chapel to create confusion. Well, it was not to be and that was subdued.
As we left, the youngest of the three was very mouthy, not directly toward us but speaking loud enough with his two friends for us to hear. "Babylon nah change mi," "mi madda and fadda nah change mi." "not even God caan change mi."
As I contemplated the situation in prayer, the Spirit of The Lord made an interesting observation and issued a question. Why did they leave where they had been, far away, to come to the chapel and to oppose God? In prayer that morning we made a specific statement and declared that we issued a divine summons to draw all that should come to the service that morning to know The Lord. Several we had seen while we were walking to the chapel came as prompted by the spirit of grace, and these also came.
The Lord said to me, I'm calling them, I'm wooing them, I'm touching them and i am winning them. They do not know it yet but the opposing force of evil in and around them is offering great opposition but He (God) wins. I therefore continue to pray for these three young men, Rastafarians, two that seemed subdued to the Holy Spirit and one seemed determined to resist Him. "Lord I break the stronghold of the enemy over these young men and I pray for their deliverance and salvation, inJesus name... Amen"
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