Birthing at Another Level

JOSEPH KING Birthing At Another Level RICH AND DIVINELY INSPIRING LESSONS FROM MARY THE MOTHER OF JESUS

The e-sword electronic bible version 9.9 Rick Meyers All rights reserved Worldwide. The e-sword is given freely to all. It is illegal to sell any copy.

Copyright © 2011 JOSEPH KING All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher

Published by: Revelation Christ Publishing House www.josephkingbooks.com

Cover design: Andrew Kalanzi JAM HOLDINGS Ltd.

DEDICATION

I would love to dedicate this book to the amazing BRIDE of our LORD CHRIST JESUS who I know firsthand is not barren but bears in her the most amazing seed of glory. May this book work for you as a midwife in helping you push that wonder you have carried out of your inner man into the material realm of this world. May you deliver to this generation the very wonders of GOD.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Without the mighty HOLY SPIRIT I remain clueless, ignorant, and completely without any idea whatsoever regarding the deep things of GOD. Thanks to HIS amazing ministry, I have been privy

to

learn

and

now

know

sufficiently

enough

to

communicate regarding the worthy sign of Mary’s Immaculate Conception. From HIS capable counsel, I have discovered the rich lessons that Mary has given all those who seriously appreciate what GOD has deposited in the inside of them.

I remain praying that the SPIRIT of GOD will do more for you than HE has already done in getting this book into your attention. May the words herein work exceedingly, abundantly, far above, more than you could ever ask, think, or even imagine as they enable you appreciate the glory in you and quicken you to bring it out in a birthing at another level.

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This book should never leave you the same; this book should never leave you where it found you. The words in it are active and sharper than any two-edged sword; they are not idle but are rather loaded with power and they shall perform that which the FATHER has sent them to accomplish on your life. You, my dear, shall birth that seed that GOD has given you.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS DEDICATION ......................................................................................................................................ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ..................................................................................................................... iii TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................ 1 RICH AND DIVINELY INSPIRING LESSONS FROM MARY THE MOTHER OF JESUS ...................... 3 FULFILL THE SCRIPTURE ................................................................................................................... 12 HEAVEN KNOWS EXACTLY WHERE YOU ARE AT ........................................................................ 18 YOUR BODY BELONGS TO GOD .................................................................................................. 22 ALWAYS BE READY TO BE USED OF GOD ................................................................................... 30 GOD SEEKS PARTNERSHIP WITH MEN .......................................................................................... 38 A DEVOUT HEART WILL FIND FAVOR WITH GOD ....................................................................... 45 HUMILITY IS A VIRTUE HONORED BY GOD .................................................................................. 50 PROMOTION COMES FROM THE LORD ...................................................................................... 56 ANGELIC VISITATIONS ARE DIVINE OPPORTUNITIES................................................................... 61 ANGELS LOCATE GOD’S CHOICES ............................................................................................. 71 TEST EVERY SPIRIT ............................................................................................................................ 77 OPEN YOUR EYES TO SEE THE INVISIBLE ....................................................................................... 86 WONDERS ARE POSSIBLE IF YOU BELIEVE ................................................................................... 92

BIRTHING AT ANOTHER LEVEL ....................................................................................................... 97

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RICH AND DIVINELY INSPIRING LESSONS FROM MARY THE MOTHER OF JESUS Luke 1:42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. Luke 1:43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? Luke 1:44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Luke 1:45 And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.

There are many things to be said and learnt from Mary the mother of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. This elegant lady is indeed an amazing vessel worthy of praise and admiration to the praise of the MOST HIGH. The role she played in being chosen of GOD and obeying HIM to bear HIS SON in the flesh is among the greatest wonders in all of scripture. That this human vessel birthed the omnipotent wonder of GOD Almighty in flesh and blood exceeds

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the tale of all legends, making Mary and her testimony to be of impeccable learning. Every believer, certainly every woman, and indeed every man, every being, does well to pay attention to the rich lessons she renders us in birthing at another level. Indeed, there are lessons, amazing instructions that can be gained from studying this most awesome of all births. Mary brings to all of us a wealth of knowledge, deep insights, great reference, and spiritual in-depth pertaining to things, values, virtues, and practices that one must adopt if they are going to birth at another level. Ignoring her esteemed position as teacher, model, example, reference, and indeed, prophetess and the LORD’s handmaiden is to do away with a most essential aspect of the word, will and wisdom of the MOST HIGH GOD. I believe that every Christmas offers us an opportunity to reflect on these sacred details; to

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ponder them in our own hearts as Mary indeed pondered them in hers (Luke 2:19). Christmas is divine; Mary’s testimony is indeed an integral portion of that holy season. To be sure, few men, few prophets, indeed, even few apostles (if any) could claim the esteemed privilege that this devout and chosen vessel of GOD holds to the glory of our GOD. When she acclaims that all generations shall render her blessed (Luke 1:48), she speaks of a matter that few in history’s continuously spending time have ever, can ever, and may ever be assured of. And truth be told, Mary remains one of the most revered and highly considered of all mothers, of all women, of all people that have graced the earth. What lessons does she bring all of us? What does Mary have to tell us about birthing at another level? Is there more to Mary than is often considered? I think so; indeed, know so, on the sure basis of the witness of the HOLY SPIRIT who overshadowed her

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and conceived in her womb the SON of the HIGHEST. I have witness from HIS impeccable counsel, from the ONE promised us to guide us into all truth, that Mary offers must-know lessons in birthing at another level. I also have witness from the word of GOD, the doctrine of CHRIST that validates Mary’s immortal contribution to us all. This word which Mary so reverently treasured itself has born great witness to the glorious wisdom she bequeaths us. And finally, I have witness from the blood of the new covenant to the elaborate ministry of Mary. That blood that flowed in her before it graced us with redemptive worth speaks for her great things. Yes, the blood of CHRIST testifies of Mary strengthening in ways necessary for us to grasp the enormous validation that GOD renders her as a prophet, a model, and a message to all men.

In this respect, I will share in the light of these three witnesses deep truths that Mary brings on the table

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of the righteous; lessons that are intended to enable every believer, indeed every man, to birth at another level. Let’s not make any mistakes though about the actual message here: I am not writing about Mary as much as I am actually writing about BIRTHING AT ANOTHER LEVEL. Mary is the tool the HOLY SPIRIT has led me to employ in this presentation. By studying her character, by analyzing her devotion and obedience to GOD’s purpose in her life, we have a glorious reference to this knowledge pertaining to birthing at another level. By birthing at another level, I refer to the possibility of translating spiritual wonders into material realities. The emphasis is to draw our attention to the reality that GOD has indeed conceived in us all by the power of HIS SPIRIT glorious wonders that ought to be birthed. All of us like Mary are handmaidens of the MOST HIGH; each of us owes it to HIM to let loose into this vain

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material realm that governs this world the awesome wonders that HE has buried in the innermost of us. Just like Mary defied the wisdom of this world and made possible what was otherwise clearly impossible, so do all men nurture in them amazing possibilities that would fill our vain world with wonders from GOD. And yet, although Mary provides the central reference, specialized attention will also be given to others servants of the MOST HIGH who may have inspired Mary or whose examples compliment her glorious contributions. The scriptures are laden with men and indeed other women whose lives provide amazing reference beneficial to appreciating how we can indeed birth at another level. Certainly women like Esther (who I have written profoundly about before in another work- see my book CHANGE YOU MUST BELIEVE IN) render invaluable lessons to gain understanding on how to birth spiritual realities. Elizabeth, Mary’s aunt, is yet

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another reference. The bible is full of references that will spread throughout this book. Beloved, as you hold this book, consider seriously that as the LORD surely located Mary, HE has located you. This book is a testimony from HIS throne, affirming that the seed of greatness nagging inside of you is not only genuine but divine. That stirring that provokes ideals, dreams, visions, imaginations, lofty aspirations of incredible virtue and value originates from the FATHER who assigned it to you purposefully intending that through you, all men shall be blessed. Indeed, like Mary, you stand among all of us as an incredible blessing; a light of hope among men. Please, awaken to your immortal worth and let that light in you shine among us all. The lessons I am sharing here with you from Mary are not carnal, vain, or merely human concoctions but divinely inspired words loaded with power. In this assignment, I have been sent to you as a modern

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day Gabriel; consider me to be your divine nurse urging you to the delivery room wherein I am sure that in this very Christmas season, you too shall push forth that dream, that wonder, that greatness that has lingered in you. Yes, Precious and I have prayed earnestly for you that this book will not just be another piece of literature that you read among others. Far from that; we believe that the words therein will work mightily through GOD to do exceedingly, abundantly, far above that which you are able to ask or even think (Ephesians 3:20). Amazing things shall be quickened in you and through you as every word you read quickens you to gain strength to push that greatness out. As you read, I urge you to BIRTH AT ANOTHER LEVEL. You are not ordinary, nor are you a common vessel. I write this and believe that it fills your eyes of understanding because you are blessed and highly favored of GOD; and blessed indeed is the fruit of your womb.

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Now, push it out!!!!!!!!

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FULFILL THE SCRIPTURE Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Matthew 1:24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:

Now, the first lesson and certainly not the least of all that the blessed Mary bequeaths us is indeed the glorious privilege we have to fulfill the scripture. In her obedience to GOD we see in her the amazing duty GOD assigns every man to fulfill HIS word.

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It essential that we realize how significant this duty ranks in our lives considering that the scripture is indeed GOD’s eternal word. None less than the LORD

HIMSELF

rendered

the

scriptures

this

immortal worth when HE said:

Matthew 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. Matthew 5:18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

Beloved, the scripture is eternal, its detail is immortal, and all of it must be fulfilled; all scripture shall be fulfilled: Isaiah 40:8 The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.

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It is essential that we realize that GOD, who has exalted HIS word above HIS name (Psalm 138:2), seeks that it never fails. HE has assigned HIS word to ensure HIS will and it cannot fail: Isaiah 55:10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: Isaiah 55:11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

That GOD has therefore sent HIS word to us, HIS esteemed will, for us to work with and bring to fulfillment is a measure of honor assigned to us that begs understanding. In this gesture GOD invites us to function in HIS exalted ways. When we obey HIS word we work with HIS will to accomplish more than is the settled maneuvers of fallen mortal men. Indeed the one that works with the word works above the ways of this world.

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In this respect, we have a lot to learn from Mary. In her obedience to GOD she put in action the ways of GOD and therein entered a performance theatre that exceeded human ponder. Her submission to the purpose of GOD was in itself a direct fulfillment of the word spoken to the prophet Isaiah in reference to the greatest sign ever promised man: Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Here Mary teaches all how indeed our lives must be experienced in the knowledge and detail of scripture. Every one of us is called into submission to the will of GOD wherein we are duty-bound to fulfill scripture GOD has spoken out of HIS mouth.

This is so awesome; think about it? Your life has the opportunity to work with the almighty word of GOD. You can indeed partner with the word and

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bring to birth grand realities over and above the ways of men. Just like Mary fulfilled the word and worked a sign that exceeded human ponder, so have you the opportunity to work with the same word and bring to birth signs and wonders way above human consideration. Beloved, learn from Mary the divine opportunity that the word of GOD presents your life. In obeying GOD, in submitting to HIS word, you occasion possibilities beyond human and vain material consideration. It must be amazing that GOD desires to work with you not according to the ways of men but according to HIS ways. I believe that this presents a grand privilege that all men should embrace with the same humility and devotion that Mary embraced the word that was assigned to her. As you hold this book this Christmas, you also hold these divine and infinite possibilities in your hands.

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This book is GOD’s word and how you receive it will determine the extent to which you will work with GOD to birth infinite possibilities. It is my faith in GOD that drives me to believe that you are at the ripened time to see your dreams come true; including those lofty aspirations that most people have discouraged you from considering because in their vain imaginations they seem impossible. And yet, like Joseph’s brothers beheld him after they had betrayed him and ridiculed him, those scorners that surround you will also see the virtue of your faith in GOD’s word. Yes, like Mary embraced the word and released the improbable, so shall you embrace the lessons she has given and put in place infinite possibilities that seem impossible to others. Whatever the case may be, let the word given to you be birthed this day to the glory of CHRIST.

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HEAVEN KNOWS EXACTLY WHERE YOU ARE AT Luke 1:28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

Isn’t it amazing how this world can seek to hide you? There are circumstances that can work to your disadvantage that may seem to conceal your place so that no one seems to know where you are? If you feel this way, I have good news for you. You might indeed be hidden from men; many may have forsaken you, ceased to pay you any attention, and may be satisfied with your absence; but your address is known in heaven. There is no where you are at that GOD Almighty is ignorant of. HE knows exactly where you are and how to reach you at your point of need. Indeed, this is one of the most amazing lessons that we gain from Mary and her divine experience in birthing the King of glory.

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It is significant that we appreciate the facts in this regard: Mary was not a popular girl in her time, nor was she living in the centre of the world. On the contrary, by the standings of men, Mary was quite insignificant; quite young to be of any serious interest as well. Add to this the fact that she lived in Nazareth, a town of marked insignificance (John 1:46) and you get my point. And yet, regardless these insignificancies, she was known and sought after by GOD. Furthermore, she was located and approached. GOD did not go to the exalted cities of the world looking for a worthy womb to bear HIS child, nor did HE seek the assistance of a mature virgin competent enough to do HIS bidding. To be sure, HIS ways are contrary to man’s ways, and so are HIS considerations: Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. Isaiah 55:9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

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I am so glad that GOD is this way. You do not have to be afraid that GOD will consider you in the same guise that men consider you. Never, men have their standards and HE has HIS; and in that respect, although men exclude you from grand purposes, GOD does include you. When you think about how great a privilege GOD was assigning Mary and where Mary was according to the measures of this world, you will gain a considerable understanding of the how far the love of GOD is willing to reach. Beloved, GOD’s love reaches further than men’s considerations so that when men forget you and even where you are you can still be sure that GOD knows you and can get to where you are. In Mary’s case, GOD located Mary and anointed her regardless of her disposition or background. You too have been located by GOD regardless of your background or disposition. May be you are not educated enough in the ways of this world; it doesn’t

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matter. May be you are not resident in one of the world’s great cities or nations; it doesn’t matter. May be you are retired or thoroughly inexperienced and have been duly forgotten or/and ignored; it doesn’t matter. There where you are, GOD has located you and will visit you, assign you and promote you before the whole world. Mary’s encounter teaches us to be thankful of the richness of GOD’s love and wisdom which is able to locate us and engage us when all others have written us off. As you read this book, consider seriously that GOD has located you and is engaging you. Right there and right now, the GREAT I AM speaks to you; will you value the moment?

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YOUR BODY BELONGS TO GOD Luke 1:34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. Luke 1:36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. Luke 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible. Luke 1:38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

I am often amazed at how people in the old covenant were able to perceive truths that came to light in the new covenant. I am amazed because this truth is so deep; deep enough that indeed many that are in the new covenant have not yet grasped them. Among these truths that are so rich in their meaning is the concept of our body’s belonging to GOD.

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Beloved, your body is not yours to use at personal will and discretion. It belongs to GOD who assigns it to you as a steward. To be sure, the earth and all in it belongs to GOD (Psalm 89:11); and that possession includes our bodies. Now in the old covenant, this truth is observed in shadows and types, as one seeing through a glass darkly. Those who observed the revelation were never able to receive it in the full weight of understanding that the same truth is addressed in light of CHRIST’s work of redemption.

Indeed the laws GOD gives to the children of Israel in respect

to

requirements

on

the

body

like

circumcision, prohibiting fornication, dedications of children, all were intended to bring to light this point. However, the point really comes home in the

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new covenant with the redemptive work of CHRIST because HE indeed has purchased us with HIS blood and we therefore belong to HIM:

1Corinthians 6:18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 1Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 1Corinthians 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

That Mary was able to grasp the full weight of this knowledge before the new covenant was enshrined is proven by the fact that she was willing to submit her body to GOD’s service even though in doing so she risked being judged against by the requirements of the law that she held very dearly. It must be appreciated that in being pregnated by the LORD when she yet had not been married to Joseph, she

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risked being considered an adulteress which would be most disheartening for her given her otherwise devout conduct.

The fact that she was willing to endure this socioreligious chastening tells a lot. Her devotion to this cause is enshrined in the revelation of the fact that her body belonged to GOD first, then only secondly to her and her husband. In this regard, she offers amazing lessons that all believers in CHRIST ought to grasp.

It is respect to this revelation that the apostle Paul sought the new covenant church to grasp when he counsels:

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1Corinthians 7:22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 1Corinthians 7:23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.

Beloved, your body belongs to GOD.

You grasp this point then you grasp amazing glories. Mary grasped it and her body remains a revered amazement to this day. Many believers have not yet seen the amazing glory that comes with ensuring that one grasps this point. Beloved, it is this single point that encouraged many to die for the LORD in the face of death threatening persecutions. Many went to the arena’s and faced lions, were scourged with untold whippings and other tortures because they grasped this point. That today suffering for the LORD is considered with disdain and fear begs this knowledge. Many today

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can hardly even fast when the SPIRIT calls on them to because they have not grasped the extent to which GOD owns their bodies.

The

rewards

in

grasping

this

revelation

are

enormous. For one, it is in this knowledge that CHRIST was able to gain the faith that HIS body would not suffer corruption but be raised on the third day. HE knew that GOD owned HIS body and that even if men killed HIM the ONE that owned HIM reserved the power to raise it again. Secondly, it is in this knowledge that CHRIST raised the dead. HE never respected the power of death over anybody more than HE considered that GOD who owned the body is able to bring the same body to life.

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Beloved, when you grasp the revelation of GOD’s ownership over your body, then you will be willing to work with HIM that will see your body work wonders untold. With that knowledge you will understand how with that same body, you could lay hands on the sick and they recover; drink a deadly thing and not die; be able to walk on water; walk through walls; and even, disappear and appear.

As you read this book, pause a little; ponder the extent to which GOD owns your body. Yes, this knowledge is essential to learning to revere your life and consider it in divine light. Your body is holy in this respect:

1Corinthians 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

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1Corinthians 3:17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

Mary was able to grasp this revelation and graciously admit to being the LORD’s handmaiden; she was able to assume the role of birthing the LORD of glory because she knew that her body was holy.

Think about it; how much is able to happen following a serious impression of this knowledge on your part? I urge you to consider that a most holy vessel hold this book and reads its profound detail. Like Mary, do not downgrade your body when GOD has exalted it. In CHRIST, HE has made you HIS body, a living temple; and from that perspective, wonders untold are able to flow out of you to nourish a corrupt and degenerate world to the glory of GOD.

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ALWAYS BE READY TO BE USED OF GOD Luke 1:38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

I am sure that destiny has commanded your steps and ordered you to reach out and read this book with studied interest. I believe that that effort is because something amazing, something deeply spiritual is about to be birthed in your life. Like many expectant mothers, your curiosity in this subject on birthing is driven by the moving life that indwells you growing and urging to come out and be manifest in this material world. Yes, there is a mighty move of GOD with your name on it. GOD is set to do some serious staff and you must be prepared in the necessary knowledge that

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will ensure you push it out. Question though is, are you ready?

Beloved, it is one thing to wait on the LORD and quite another to know your time. I have seen so many people believe and believe, wait and wait, pray and pray; but when the LORD moved, they were quite unsure, unready, ill-prepared, and unable to seize the time of their visitation. It is not enough to wait on the LORD or to pray and pray, or even to wait on HIM, serve HIM and yet not be ready when HE is ready.

People that are this way will desire to do something for the LORD; it may be to give an offering, or give their son to the ministry or themselves, or even to read a particular book they sense that the LORD

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would have them read, or to start a business they believe the LORD would have them start. In this regard, they will pray, they will desire, even talk about it but when the time comes for them to actually do it, they freak out.

Many turn around and begin to excuse themselves citing one reason after another. All of a sudden they become aware of several inconvenient ‘demands’ in their lives that explains why they cannot fulfill their divine desire. They may have prayed about it, testified about it, shared with several others about their good intentions, but at the time when the LORD seeks that they do it, they fear for several reasons. These kinds of people are the ones that the lover in the Songs of Solomon laments that awaken love when it doesn’t desire (Songs 3:8); they place their

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hands on the plough and look back, completely unworthy of the kingdom (Luke 9:62).

Beloved, if your devotions, prayers, your waiting on the LORD is really going to be of any worth, then you must work with the LORD to accomplish that which HE has begun in you. If you are going to birth that greatness that GOD sowed into your spirit, you must be ready when HE is ready.

Mary was a devout girl before the LORD showed up and changed her life forever. She must have been committed in prayer, always attentive to what the LORD had to say. I am certain that like most devotees of her day, she must have been regular in the synagogues, often hungry to know more of what GOD had to say. She must have learnt, studied,

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prayed, and testified of her desires and devotions to GOD. But she did not stop at that. When her devotions elicited the attention of GOD sufficient for HIM to reward them with the eternal privilege of birthing the CHRIST, she did not give in to excuses. There she was; a young girl, betrothed to a man for marriage; inexperienced, base, poor, insignificant among men, and yet she did not give in to any of these apparent disqualifications. She didn’t excuse herself as being unable for any reason when GOD showed up to birth her into the next level for her life. When GOD was ready, so was she.

Her immortal response to a request that threatened several other programs in her life offers a telling lesson for all men. Meditate on those words a

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moment; there is glorious richness in them. Don’t think of Mary, think of yourself and say it over and over till it gains ground in your soul:

Luke 1:38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

This is the appropriate response when the MOST HIGH bids you. Rather than excuse yourself with a thousand other reasons why you cannot serve, accept HIS bidding, trust HIS timing and choice, and accept HIS decision.

Are you GOD’s handmaid? Are you willing in the day of HIS power?

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The test is in the pudding; you are not ready to be used of GOD, to birth at another level, until you have said YES to HIS call.

Throughout the scriptures GOD chose people in accordance to HIS sovereignty and not their convenience. Just in case you are waiting for all the lines to fall in place before you yield to what the LORD requires of you, I would have you know that obedience to the LORD should be as and when HE requires. David was only seventeen when it was required of him to fight and redeem the army of Israel. Yes, there were his father’s sheep to think about; yes, he was only seventeen and without experience; yes, he could die. But when GOD calls, the David’s and Mary’s of the kingdom of heaven hear HIS voice, obey, and own up.

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I am certain that your birthing is calling; you are coming to that place when your prayers, your waiting, your devotions are called into that glorious word, OBEDIENCE. That is the true test. Do not hesitate when the LORD calls; let that seed of greatness come out, even NOW!!!!!

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GOD SEEKS PARTNERSHIP WITH MEN Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Get this and get it well: GOD never created us to independent nor did HE create us to dependent. HE created us for partnership, for camaraderie, for communion, to be in complete communion, codependence with HIM. Man is created to function with, in and through GOD; and that is the only means through of realizing ones greatest potentials.

It is the fall of man that cost man this omnipotent privilege. Before Adam fell, GOD worked with HIM. Together with Adam, GOD governed creation. HE

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reigned over the heavens as man reigned over the earth in an exercise of mutual interest and activity so that as GOD was in heaven, man was on earth. To be sure, GOD created man in HIS own image and likeness (Genesis 1:26, 27). Furthermore, man was created in a grand plan to bring all men in fellowship with CHRIST: Roman 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

In divine wisdom, GOD intends that all men live as HE does, as brethren to CHRIST, as HIS sons and in fellowship with the deity.

Beloved, that is all the reason that GOD has sown greatness inside of you. That seed is HIS doing and

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not the result of your education, ambitions, or imaginations. Far from all that: what GOD has planted inside of you is awesome and beyond anything that you can conjecture and accomplish in your own strength. That greatness that is inside of you is a seed from GOD that HE has overshadowed you with and is willing to work with you to bring to birth. Mary shows us how to function in this partnership; she reveals how we ought to be willing to function with GOD to realize the greatness that only HE is able to bring in, through, and out of us.

Throughout the scriptures, you meet men and women that were opened to working with GOD. There certainly would never have been a great Moses was there no openness to partnering with GOD. I am

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often inspired by those words that GOD spoke to Moses when HE first sent HIM to meet with Pharaoh. Just when Moses under looked himself, seeking to decline from being GOD’s choice, the LORD spoke with utmost urgency demonstrating HIS need for Moses to partner with HIM: Exodus 4:14 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart. Exodus 4:15 And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do. Exodus 4:16 And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God. Exodus 4:17 And thou shalt take this rod in thine hand, wherewith thou shalt do signs.

Did you see what I saw? Did you see that?

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While Moses was fumbling about GOD’s choice, GOD was excited about him. HE knew that Moses was not going by himself to face Pharaoh but with HIM. HE would translate the mouth of Moses so that it would be like HIS own immortal mouth that creatively speaks things to being. Essentially, GOD was going to work with Moses and HE wouldn’t have Moses’ decline for nothing. HE wanted to partner with HIM and was going pretty confident of the result.

Beloved, get it: GOD is your numero uno partner. HE desires to function with, through, and for you. That mission that has lodged in your heart, that ambition that looks impossible in your eyes, is not an assignment that GOD would have you accomplish alone.

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True to point, HE seeks that you work with others and is willing to gather them for your mission; but more seriously than all the other human resource that GOD graciously gives you is HIMSELF. GOD Almighty is willing and available to work through that program with you.

This was the main point HE also sought to get Gideon to understand when HE shrunk his army from 30,000 fighting men to a mere 300 (Judges 7). HE sought for the young man to learn to count HIM as a glorious partner in his cause to liberate his people. It is also the point that the LORD HIMSELF most celebrated in HIS ministry:

John 5:19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.

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John 5:20 For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel.

It is so essential for all of us to grasp this point. We are never to consider ourselves as loners in this world, living a life that must be accomplished in our own strength. A thousand times NOOOOOO!!!!

We are all created to be in partnership with GOD. To be sure, this partnership eluded mankind following the fall and is indeed the principle reason CHRST came to the world. When Mary welcomed the ministry of the HOLY SPIRIT to do as GOD pleases, she offered a telling lesson for our benefit. We too must thankfully receive this glorious promise of GOD and engage in fellowship with HIM in every cause in our lives.

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A DEVOUT HEART WILL FIND FAVOR WITH GOD Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. Luke 1:28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

If there is a lie that the enemy like to work on, and he has been at it since it succeeded with Adam; it is that GOD is not faithful. Many believers are deceived to thinking that their prayers are never heard, their devotions are never considered by GOD. Many times they lament like Jeremiah when it seems that the wicked prosper while they languish in defeat:

Jeremiah 12:1 Righteous art thou, O LORD, when I plead with thee: yet let me talk with thee of thy judgments: Wherefore doth the way of the wicked prosper? wherefore are all they happy that deal very treacherously?

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Jeremiah 12:2 Thou hast planted them, yea, they have taken root: they grow, yea, they bring forth fruit: thou art near in their mouth, and far from their reins. Jeremiah 12:3 But thou, O LORD, knowest me: thou hast seen me, and tried mine heart toward thee: pull them out like sheep for the slaughter, and prepare them for the day of slaughter.

The same concern bothered the generation of the prophet Malachi. They too lamented:

Malachi 3:14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts? Malachi 3:15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.

Beloved, GOD is no cheat. To be sure, HE is more than faithful (Deuteronomy 7:9) and HE is also just and true (Deuteronomy 32:4). It is essential that believers are encouraged in these virtues of the LORD because they in turn spun one to be

46

persevering in their obedience to HIM. When you known that GOD is faithful, just and true, you are encouraged to be diligent towards HIM.

Now, one of the most encouraging lessons that I get from the account of Mary is that she was indeed a devout woman. It seems to me that this virtue on her part held considerable clout with GOD when HE chose her and indeed favored her. This

is

particularly

important

to

day

when

messengers of darkness have peddled blessings for cash. It is quite sad to observe so-called ministers teach that GOD’s favor can be bought for a seed (usually a financial offer).

Beloved,

throughout

the

scripture,

GOD

consistently rewards with favor those who have

47

been devout towards HIM. It is to a devout Abraham that HE promises the seed of Abraham and with whom HE makes covenant; it is also to a devout Noah that HE reveals HIS plan to destroy the world and who HE favoringly spares together with HIS family; it is to a devout Nathaniel that JESUS assures the privilege of beholding angels ascend and descend from heaven upon HIM; it was to a devout Cornelius that an angel was sent to urge him to invite a Peter he’d never known and upon whom the HOLY SPIRIT fell together with HIS household.

It is worth it all being devoted to GOD. I do not know that the LORD has asked you to do, whatever the SPIRIT has bid you to do; walk in consistent obedience and you will find favor with GOD. Devotion to GOD is essential to birthing at another level. That seed you are carrying in your womb will

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come forth if you remain persistent in serving the LORD.

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HUMILITY IS A VIRTUE HONORED BY GOD Luke 1:46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, Luke 1:47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. Luke 1:48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Luke 1:49 For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. Luke 1:50 And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. Luke 1:51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. Luke 1:52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. Luke 1:53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.

If ever there is a lesson to learn it is this one; the virtue of humility in birthing the glory of GOD is quintessential. Indeed, the LORD cannot work nor can HE birth forth that greatness HE has deposited in you if you remain proud and obstinate. For HIM to occasion that glory, you have to shun your proud

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and vain self and assume a humble disposition. Beloved the LORD hates the proud; HE shuns them, at the expense of the humble:

James 4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

This lesson is often missed by many that carry divine promises with them. Many that are talented, skilled, and greatly endowed wonder why the LORD’s favors seem to by-pass them without realizing that their pride has caused them to miss-out on what GOD is willing to do in and through them. The apostle sought the early church to learn this essential point in reference to the calling of our faith in CHRIST. He counseled thus:

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1Corinthians 1:26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: 1Corinthians 1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; 1Corinthians 1:28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: 1Corinthians 1:29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.

Whenever I see a proud believer or minister, I am often reminded of this scripture. Many that are proud do not realize that they have lost out on birthing at another level. Their vain pride disqualifies them from manifesting the glory of GOD. They may manifest the glory of this world, they may walk in the vain measures of men but insofar as birthing divine realities is concerned, they are disqualified.

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In the business of partnering with GOD, humility, submission, being of obedient disposition is a GOD-standard. Mary was chosen because of this virtue; and in bearing it, she was willing and submissive to GOD’s will. I am certain that the reason she did not object or raise other

considerations

against

GOD’s

will

was

basically the result of this virtue. Because she considered herself to be the LORD’s handmaid, she was willing to submit to GOD. Now if there is one person the LORD cannot resist, it is a humble soul, a contrite heart (Psalm 51:17).

Indeed this virtue remains one of the most amazing references our LORD HIMSELF shares with us from HIS character. Again the apostle Paul gives CHRIST’s sterling humility as a most vital attitude to grasp, counseling:

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Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: Philippians 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: Philippians 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Philippians 2:9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: Philippians 2:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; Philippians 2:11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

When we worship the exalted CHRIST, when we adore HIS immense beauty, when we praise HIS mighty name, we must know that HE earned it in humble submission to GOD. The lesson of HIS humility testifies to HIS birthing at another level. CHRIST did not become King of all

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kings, reigning LORD eternal because of HIS inherent worth as much as because of HIS humble obedience to GOD.

Today, if you would love to birth that glory that GOD has seeded in you, forsake all pride and awaken to the glorious potentials enveloped in humble attitude. There is a promotion with your name on it if you will be willing to humble yourself in submission to GOD.

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PROMOTION COMES FROM THE LORD Luke 1:46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, Luke 1:47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. Luke 1:48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

Now here is a great truth that must be appreciated if you must birth at another level; if you are going to unveil the amazing wonder that lies in you, if you are going to make known the glorious value inherent in you, then you must appreciate the indispensible role that GOD must play in this noble prospect. As such, it is essential that you know that GOD is indeed in the business of lifting up, that promotion comes from HIM and apart from HIM is no genuine course in this regard.

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After walking with GOD and being lifted beyond his wildest imagination from being a mere shepherd boy to be the king of Israel, David knew as much and counseled for all and sundry: Psalms 75:6 For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. Psalms 75:7 But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.

He must have passed on this lesson to his son who variably shared it in this wise counsel that bears immortal truth, watch this:

Ecclesiastes 9:11 I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.

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From a studied observation, from spurning lessons from

both

study

and

experience,

the

wise

philosopher King Solomon, son of David, reached this conclusion. It is GOD that affords time and chance, it is GOD that determines outcome, it is GOD that lifts one and casts down another.

This knowledge was grasped by Mary; she knew that GOD had reached down to her low estate and believed that in this birthing she was being lifted of GOD to a glorious disposition. No man had enabled this to happen; no skill on her part had occasioned this privilege; no one else had been involved in uplifting her, in exalting her, in raising her but GOD.

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Have you reached that place? Have you reached the place where you are not counting on any vain consideration for your promotion but GOD? Beloved, GOD would have you know that your lifting is HIS exclusive business. No one seeks or even desires for you to be as great as HE seeks for you to be. None loves you as much. None is even able to accomplish that feat for you. When it seems that there are some people involved, or even a skill involved, you better know that it is GOD working to your advantage and employing HIS sovereign predisposition to your advantage. Yes, HE is able to use anyone or even anything to promote you. But be sure that you know that your promotion has not come from any other resource other than the MOST HIGH.

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That lofty ideal, that glorious ambition shall be accomplished in the power of GOD. In this respect, do not be afraid when people that seem to be quite resourceful let you down or shun you; your promotion is not at their disposal. They are dispensable. What is essential is that GOD remains faithful even when others are faithless:

Romans 3:3 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? Romans 3:4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.

Birthing at another level is all about trusting GOD, focusing on HIM; walking with HIM, working with HIM, and seeing HIM get you through to the next level. Truly, HE begun it and is faithful to accomplish it (Philippians 1:6).

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ANGELIC VISITATIONS OPPORTUNITIES

ARE

DIVINE

Luke 1:26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. Luke 1:28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

Angels were never ever intended to be strange to the human person. Like all GOD’s creation, angels were created to minister to GOD. And since GOD created man for more than service, but indeed for family, partnership, communion, it then follows that angels were intended to be a familiar experience among men. That they are not can be blamed to the fall of man and the corruption of the human soul.

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In a vain and temporal realm driven with ever increasing material prospects and interests, men have become blind to the spiritual realm from whence angels function. If truth is told, it isn’t that angels have nothing to do with men but rather that man is blind to the workings of angels around them.

This is why the apostle Paul saw it fit to caution the saints in this regard:

Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

This renowned apostle knew and was indeed conversant to the ministry of angels. He never queried their existence seeing as it were that he had been quickened into the spiritual realm. At one point,

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he mentions how he’d indeed seen one from whom he had received a message from the LORD:

Acts 27:21 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. Acts 27:22 And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. Acts 27:23 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Acts 27:24 Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.

He lived in a realm where he could freely see, listen, engage, and interact with angels. I must also say that angels delighted in this fellowship with Paul because he was a man of GOD, given to accomplish HIS will.

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There were other apostles that saw and even dealt with angels; not least, apostle Nathaniel who the LORD assured would behold angels ascend and descend upon HIM (John 1:51). Others include Peter who was rescued by angel out of prison (Acts 12:711) and John, the LORD’s beloved who encountered angelic ministry to such elaborate extent as he wrote the revelations of JESUS CHRIST that we call the book of Revelations. There were others that were not necessarily Jews in the New Testament but were otherwise devoted men and women that encountered angels. One of particular reckoning is Cornelius who encountered an angle as he prayed (Acts 10:3).

Of course the Old Testament is replete with the ministry of angels interfacing with the ministry of men. Amazing accounts are given of papa Abraham

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(Genesis 18), Gideon (Judges 6:11-17), and David (2 Samuel 24;17), including minor prophets like Daniel (Daniel 9:21), and Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1) to mention but a few.

In this respect, we shouldn’t be surprised that when GOD was setting the stage for the birth of HIS only Begotten, HE sent angels on errand. Indeed, the story of Christmas is a story laden with angelic ministry. No less than the arch-angel Gabriel is chief among the angels that featured in this debut wonder. He is first seen appearing to Zechariah and then to Mary heralding the news of John, the forerunner (Luke 1:11-20) and that of CHRIST, the SAVIOR (Luke 1:2837). Then other angels are involved like the ones that visited the shepherds singing praise to GOD for sending HIS CHRIST; the one that spoke to them to go to Bethlehem (Luke 2:10-12); the one that

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cautioned Joseph not to do away with Mary (Mathew 1:20-24); and the one that warned him to flee with the child and HIS mother from Herod’s devious plan (Matthew 2:13 ).

One essential lesson we can gather from Mary encounter is how angelic visitations are precursors to glorious opportunities; more often than not (except in cases of impending judgment), angels come to announce divine moves of GOD, they herald new privileges. Indeed, when Mary saw Gabriel, having been a devout person, she knew that opportunity was in the offing. Indeed, GOD sends HIS angels whenever HE seeks to emphasize the genuity of the impending prospect. Whenever HE is set to accomplish something great that HE would have you never to

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doubt but firmly believe, HE sends an angel to affirm this prospect.

You can be certain that the visit of HIS arch-angel was essentially HIS way of emphasizing the immutability of HIS purpose. That is why Gabriel was taken quite aback when Zechariah doubted his grand pronouncements in regards to the prospect of his wife giving birth even though she was past her fertility age:

Luke 1:18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. Luke 1:19 And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. Luke 1:20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

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That angel knew that being sent to deliver the grand message meant that the recipient should know that GOD is firm on this purpose to do even the impossible. When GOD sends an angel, HE is set on HIS intention and you had better believe it.

To the praise of GOD, Mary never wasted her visit; she believed the report as ridiculous as it may have seemed to her carnal mind but the presence of Gabriel was sufficient for her to receive the word with marked faith and willing commitment. This lesson is so rich because GOD is still in the business of affirming HIS word and angels are still a part of that process. Beloved, GOD did not, has never, and will never cease to send angels to men. He is still sending them even to this day. Angels are appearing in dreams, visions, and even visitations. And whenever they do, the message they carry is

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firm and sealed in heaven. GOD sends them to strengthen your faith in affirming HIS intentions.

I do not know to whom I am talking to but I am certain that someone reading this material has indeed encountered angelic ministry and may not have known the gravity of the visit. It may also be that as you read this book you will occasion an angel or even angels. I believe that this lesson from Mary must be grasped with seriousness; those encounters are not religious dynamics nor are they just events of spectacular marvel with nothing more to tell except the experience.

Far

from

that:

angels

herald

opportunities. If you have seen one, when you see one, believe what they have to say. They are simply sent to give emphasis to what GOD is set on doing.

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In Mary’s case, it was the birth of CHRIST. In your case, it is the birthing of greatness at a whole other level. Regardless the dream, the prospect, the weight, size, and enormity of that child you carry in your womb, believe the report of angels sent to you. This book may well be accompanying angelic ministry to you. As you read the words therein and are quickened to the spiritual realm, I believe that angels will be sent to affirm the word that you are reading. Yes, you will, you shall, you must BIRTH AT ANOTHER LEVEL because GOD is seriously set on showing forth HIS glory through you.

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ANGELS LOCATE GOD’S CHOICES Luke 1:26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.

Angels are able to locate whosoever is GOD’s choice; they never make mistakes and can never fail to secure the LORD’s preferred vessels. Part of this has to be explained by the fact that angelic knowledge does indeed exceed human geography. From the vantage of heaven from whence they observe all that is on earth, they should find it quite possible to locate and approach those that GOD seeks to work with.

Essentially, you can be sure that as a partner of the MOST

HIGH,

as

a

minster

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of

righteousness

programmed to work with GOD, angels will always locate you as they work with GOD and you to ensure the will of the MOST HIGH. What is particularly encouraging about this is that once GOD has set HIS eyes on you, you can never be lost from HIS view. The fact that angels can easily locate you is testimony to the fact that you are under GOD’s constant watch. HE knows your address and sends angels to you without fail.

This is the point that was clearly made to Jacob when was in the middle of nowhere. Running from his brother’s wrath, uncertain of his future, in the middle of unfamiliar territory yet GOD sent angels to him:

Genesis 28:10 And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. Genesis 28:11 And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he

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took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep. Genesis 28:12 And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.

Indeed, in that same desolate and unfamiliar place, GOD visited him and blessed him: Genesis 28:13 And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; Genesis 28:14 And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed. Genesis 28:15 And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.

It doesn’t matter where you are, GOD can still locate you. You may bankrupt, financially in the middle of nowhere and yet in that same plight GOD is still able

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to locate you, send HIS angels to minister over you, and bless you. Like Jacob, you may be running from enemies that seek to destroy you, you may be running from a marriage, or a nation, or whatever threat, but GOD is still able to locate you, bless you and secure your destiny.

Mary was located in the little known town of Nazareth;

infact,

the

town

was

hardly

ever

considered to have anything good come out of it but GOD located her. Little is known about her family, or occupation; to the best of our knowledge, she was a peasantry youth with hardly any distinguished characteristic except that she was devout. And GOD took note of that and visited her.

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Are you devout? Have you believed GOD, trusted HIM against all odds? Have you set your eyes on those things above and sold out your heart to GOD? Then know that GOD knows exactly where you are. HIS eyes are always in search for the upright who HE locates and ministers to with HIS angels. Mary’s testimony demonstrates

this

and

offers

the

words

and

knowledge necessary for you to be strengthened in your faith confident that regardless the circumstances you find yourself, GOD knows exactly where you are.

From that place unknown to most men, from that unfamiliar territory you find yourself in, yet GOD has located your faith, HE has observed your comings and goings. Like Mary, you are about to make well known places that were hardly known; you are about to give relevant knowledge about

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places that no one cares to bother with. There in that desert, in that wilderness, GOD is sending HIS holy angels to prove that HE is with you and is your everpresent help in time of need.

Beloved, once you have faith, once you believe, then know that you are not lost from GOD or heaven. Infact, you are right at the place where HE is comfortable

to

descend

and

declare

glorious

blessings upon you. In that inconvenient location you can birth the impossible; from that unknown location a glorious destination can yet be born. Yes, right there, you shall bring forth the very glory GOD deposited in you.

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TEST EVERY SPIRIT Luke 1:34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Now it is one thing to love GOD and be devoted to HIM, even to for GOD to return the affection with HIS undying faithfulness; and quite another for one to be quite gullible and even naïve in dealing with supernatural visitations. Both as a believer and as a minister, I have been privy to so many precious saints and even ministers that have been misled by visitations that they perceived to be from GOD when in actual fact they were from the devil. Indeed, the devil himself is the chief of liars (John 8:44) and is able to disguise himself in the form of a glorious being, even angels of righteousness:

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2Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 2Corinthians 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 2Corinthians 11:15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

The apostle Paul, who himself was privy to several divine visitations including angels, yet counseled against being moved at every divine visitation at the expense of truth: Galatians 1:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

He knew that the devil is a deceiver, a master trickster that would do anything possible to deceive the

elect.

Consequently,

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all

believers,

indeed

everyone ought to be on guard against these deceptive plots wrought from hells dark quarters. Speaking in the same regard, the apostle John counseled that we test every spirit: 1John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Beloved, the devil has been disguising himself for a very long time. He did so in the Garden of Eden when he tempted the woman to eat of the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:5, 6); he sought to deceive the angels in heaven and even succeeded with a third of them (Revelations 12:8, 9); he also appeared to JESUS in some angelic form to tempt him in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11).

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And one thing I know about him is that he is always up to the same bag of tricks; he is still disguising himself. Conscious that we are in a fight against principalities and powers, wicked spirits in heavenly places, we must be keen to test every spirit that appear to us. Not every good appearance is sent from GOD, not every divine being that seeks our attention is sent from GOD. Whether in apparitions or even in visions and dreams, we must test the spirit that comes to us. When Mary asked to know how it is indeed possible that she could have a child without the knowledge of any man, she sought to engage the validity of Gabriel’s report. She was not just going to believe because an angel had appeared to her but sought to know whether this visitation was genuine. And what

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is significant in this regard is that the angel revealed to her the manner in which this seemingly impossible feat would indeed take place. Beloved, GOD is light and when HE is working at birthing the impossible, HE will work in the light to those that are keen enough to seek and find; if they ask, they will receive. Essentially, GOD does not mind your curiosity when HE is working with you on anything. If you will ask, you will be told; if you seek, you shall find (Matthew 7:7). When Mary tested Gabriel, she was privileged with an answer. This testing of spirits is something that you see throughout the scriptures. You see it with Moses when he asked the LORD HIS name at the burning bush and further went on to ask by what means he should convince the Jews (Exodus 3:13; 4:1). He was

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not going to deliver the Jews just because he’d seen a burning bush; to be sure that the deliverance he was being called into was really a genuine plot of GOD, he asked questions that GOD answered. The same pattern is seen with Gideon when he was visited by an angel who declared him to be mighty and sent to war against the Midianites. Once he received the message, he set a test; he sought that the angel validates his authenticity: Judge 6:17 And he said unto him, If now I have found grace in thy sight, then shew me a sign that thou talkest with me. Judge 6:18 Depart not hence, I pray thee, until I come unto thee, and bring forth my present, and set it before thee. And he said, I will tarry until thou come again. Judge 6:19 And Gideon went in, and made ready a kid, and unleavened cakes of an ephah of flour: the flesh he put in a basket, and he put the broth in a pot, and brought it out unto him under the oak, and presented it. Judge 6:20 And the angel of God said unto him, Take the flesh and the unleavened cakes, and lay them upon this rock, and pour out the broth. And he did so.

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Judge 6:21 Then the angel of the LORD put forth the end of the staff that was in his hand, and touched the flesh and the unleavened cakes; and there rose up fire out of the rock, and consumed the flesh and the unleavened cakes. Then the angel of the LORD departed out of his sight. Judge 6:22 And when Gideon perceived that he was an angel of the LORD, Gideon said, Alas, O Lord GOD! for because I have seen an angel of the LORD face to face.

Did you see that? Gideon only believed he had seen the angel of the LORD after the angel had proven himself and not merely at his appearance. Beloved, when you are going to birth at another level be careful to test every spirit. Not every lofty declaration made to you is from GOD. You need to validate the word by testing the spirit. Even when JESUS appeared to the apostles walking on water; and he sought to calm their fears, Peter set to validate this claim:

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Matthew 14:25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. Matthew 14:26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. Matthew 14:27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. Matthew 14:28 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. Matthew 14:29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.

If it is GOD, HE can always validate HIMSELF. If it is from GOD, that messenger will validate himself. JESUS HIMSELF validated HIS ministry with signs and wonders. HE did not just set among us and tell us HE was the CHRIST. HE proved HIS claim with signs and wonders. Beloved, birthing at another level requires validation. Do not just go with what you dream, or the vision you

saw,

or

any

visitation

you

have

ever

experienced. Get curious about it, ask GOD to

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validate it. Believe me, when you do you will be given proof of the fruit of your womb. You see, that glory in your spiritual womb, in your spirit, can be validated; it is not a fake deposit. What you have in you is real; validating its authenticity will strengthen your faith in carrying it to the full course. So once GOD has sent HIS word, once HE has sent HIS angels, or dreams, ask for validation; test every spirit.

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OPEN YOUR EYES TO SEE THE INVISIBLE Luke 1:28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. Luke 1:29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.

So many people are closed to birthing wonders just because they have limited vision; many do not realize that there is more to life than meets the eye. And until you are opened to see the invisible, or rather what is invisible to others, then you cannot give birth to what is unique and beyond their reach. People that birth glorious realities often are people that have vision, insight; they are able to see more than is usually appreciated. Where others merely glance

with

casual

interest

limited

in

carnal

understanding, those that birth the impossible are

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people that have trained their eyes to see things that are invisible. It is this vision, this appreciation of what is often overlooked that positions you for greatness. The scripture says that Mary saw the angel; and I ask, do you see your angel. Do you realize that GOD has positioned heavenly help around you? That you can take advantage of divine assistance which is right around you in that situation? So often, a lot of GOD’s children are as blind as Elisha’s servant, unable to appreciate that there is more on their side than against them: 2Kings 6:15 And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? 2Kings 6:16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. 2Kings 6:17 And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened

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the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.

So many are afraid of what they are greater than; they face life’s challenges seeing impossibilities rather the possibilities that GOD has set right in their midst. Beloved, Mary offers us great inspiration in seeing the

invisible,

engaging

with

seemingly

gross

disadvantage to manifest the impossible. She opened her eyes to see the LORD’s help and opened her life to new and glorious possibilities. In this respect, she closed her eyes to every disadvantage that glared at her. Beloved, if you are going to birth at another level, you have got to learn to see from your spirit wherein you are opened to see, comprehend opportunities that are seemingly beyond reach. This

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opening of eyes to invisible glories is indeed what happened to Moses when he saw the burning bush; it is also what happened to Jacob when he saw the angel of the LORD; it is indeed the purpose of divine vision when GOD ministers with us against the impossible to the birth at another level. Visions and dreams often permit GOD to engage us in dimensions that we previously have not placed into consideration. They are not an end in themselves but a tool to an end. Once your eyes have been opened to a different realm, it opens your understanding to a whole other dimension so that you are able to contemplate birthing at another level. Because Mary was open to see divine apparitions, she was open to engage in a dimension that others could never contemplate. She offers this unique experience to all of us wherein we are well advised to

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appreciate that there is more to life than meets the eye. This Christmas season, I have written another book for the season titled- A SEASON OF LIGHT, with the rather provocative sub-title- more to Christmas than meets the eye; in which I seek to draw our attention to contemplate beyond surface vision into the depth and wonder of the Christmas story. The birth of a Holy Child by a woman conceived by the HOLY SPIRIT was itself a sign pointing to more serious things (Isaiah 7:14). Many that miss out on the purpose of the sign miss out because they are trapped in common vision; and so Christmas becomes the rather ritualistic bore that it is to many or the passing, temporal fancy that men have reduced it to be. And yet, seeing the invisible, seeing in the Christmas story what is not always seen, opens one

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to a whole new dimension that is able to occasion a birthing at another level. Beloved, if you can see more than men are known to see, you will birth more than they are known to birth.

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WONDERS ARE POSSIBLE IF YOU BELIEVE Luke 1:36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. Luke 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible. Luke 1:38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

Wonders follow all who believe; they are not assigned to the faint hearted but to those who will dare their faith to consider the improbable (Mark 16:17). Contrary to conventional opinion, wonders are not limited to extraordinary people. A proper examination of these legendaries will reveal that are often ordinary people with an extraordinary faith; regulars that just believed for the extraordinary and in so doing birthed something beyond usual consideration.

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Today, Mary is greatly revered by many people and has been for the last two thousand years. Few take into

serious

consideration

that

this

legendary

personality in our faith was actually a regular girl down in Nazareth; hardly anyone knew her, hardly anyone expected a lot from her. The reality of her honor stems from the richness of her faith; when opportunity presented itself to her; she dared believe the impossible and birthed a wonder that has kept her highly honored throughout all generations. This attribute of remarkable faith demonstrated by Mary offers tones of inspiration for every regular. Beloved, a rich inheritance or winning a large lottery is not essential to provoke wonders out of your womb. Many that have gained fame through these material opportunities have only graced the public domain for a split season of wasted wonder. Their

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bubbles burst and they wane to oblivion without much left to inspire anyone. But faith, even when tried is able to render you better results than gold: 1Peter 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

When you believe GOD even when HIS word seems impossible in every means known to man, wonders are bound to show that will set you on course for praise and honor. Indeed, it is people with faith that distinguish themselves above others. The word of GOD tested Joseph but once he believed it against the trials he suffered, he birthed the wonder of reigning over the same Egypt that his brothers sold him to. In time, he was highly honored by the same

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brothers that hated him and sought to kill him. Infact, to this day, Joseph is greatly honored for his faith and how this virtue was essential to the wonder of his legendary reign as Pharaoh’s prime minister. The same can be said about Moses; because he believed GOD when he was yet an old man, such great wonders followed him so that he was able to deliver his people from centuries of slavery and affliction in Egypt. The name of Moses became so honored among both the Jews and the Egyptians because of his faith yet previously both had found him offensive. The amazing story of this man’s faith and the wonders he birthed as a result of it continue to inspire people to this day. The list goes on and on; faith does not fail to birth wonders once you believe GOD even against hope. The one that exercises their faith works the necessary

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means that shall birth wonders and exalt their name with praise and honor. Today, a regular, unknown, but devout girl with faith is remarkably known throughout the world by virtue of the wonder she bore when she believed. I dare you to believe; refuse to doubt what GOD is able to do with you. Forget about the scorners and mockers that surround you and berate your faith; they are not a factor regarding what GOD is willing to birth out of your spirit. With their own eyes, they shall behold you push out wonder after another and the same lips that despised you shall delightfully praise you and publish your good testimonies.

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BIRTHING AT ANOTHER LEVEL Revelations 12:1 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: Revelations 12:2 And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. Revelations 12:3 And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. Revelations 12:4 And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born. Revelations 12:5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.

Beloved, you are not as ordinary as you may think you are; indeed, there is a lot about you that you may not yet know because most of it is still in your spiritual womb. You are not empty, nor are you barren and unable to bring forth greatness. In you is a glorious destiny, a mighty seed that awaits GOD’s

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time and your faith before it connects with the material realm. I am certain that you are going to birth something extraordinary, something that will prove your great worth.

To be sure, the testimony of Mary that inspires us tells a lot more than is often observed; few realize that her amazing testimony was itself a glorious sign pointing to the glorious seed of CHRIST that we all carry as people fashioned after the image and likeness of GOD. The testimony of Immaculate Conception, the virgin birth, was a sign pointing to yet an even more glorious testimony awaiting to be birthed by you and everyone that believes in the LORD JESUS.

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Indeed when the prophet Isaiah inquired about the possibilities in you, the LORD revealed the virgin birth as the sign to observe:

Isaiah 7:12 But Ahaz said, I will not ask, neither will I tempt the LORD. Isaiah 7:13 And he said, Hear ye now, O house of David; Is it a small thing for you to weary men, but will ye weary my God also? Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Following Mary’s amazing testimony we know that the LORD was not speaking the sign for King Ahaz’s benefit; that privilege was intended for another generation way beyond the time he lived in.

And yet, to this day, many celebrate the virgin birth pretty much as an end in itself; few find the necessary

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inspiration that this glorious sign seeks to give us. To be sure, many people that revere Mary and greatly honor her hardly think of her birthing as a sign but as an end; most consider that Mary’s miraculous birth was an exclusive privilege above any other privilege any person can be graced with. Rather than be inspired to learn from her and more than that to seek from the LORD what her birth implies or the sign it points to, most that revere Mary have chosen to worship her.

I am certain that Mary, who is definitely in heaven, is grossly offended by those who seek to worship her and who in so doing miss out on the glorious highlight her birthing of the CHRIST pointed at. Truly, Mary, a devout Jew, and herself, an adamant follower of CHRIST knew that only GOD should be worshipped and no other (Exodus 20:3). When she

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rightfully declared that all generations shall call her blessed, she never intended that all generations shall worship her.

Beloved, only GOD should be worshipped; only HE deserves all glory, honor, dominion, and power; only HIM is worthy of reverend adoration. Those that seek to place Mary in this exclusive preserve render her name and person a deep and most insincere injustice. Those that do so blaspheme the name of GOD and in so doing also miss out on the glorious privilege her birth renders all men as a sign.

We get a clue to what the sign of the virgin birth of CHRIST points at from the LORD’s blatant response to one of HIS followers when she unwittingly sought to exalt Mary above divine measure:

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Luke 11:27 And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. Luke 11:28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.

Elsewhere, HIS blatant refusal to meet with Mary and her other sons and daughters on the same basis, tells a lot:

Luke 8:19 Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press. Luke 8:20 And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. Luke 8:21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.

Clearly these scriptures reveal the fact that JESUS did not view the virgin birth as an end in itself nor did do

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they reveal Mary’s insignificance. The LORD clearly accepts Mary as blessed but emphasizes those who believe HIS word and do it as more blessed than she is on the basis of her mothering HIM according to the flesh.

Essentially, the LORD knew that Mary’s birthing was itself a sign pointing to a glorious highlight wherein believing in HIS word, all men could have the privilege of being born of that word and in turn bearing forth the very glory of CHRIST that HE is. Every believer in CHRIST is born of the word:

1Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. 1Peter 1:24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:

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1Peter 1:25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

Watch this: believing CHRIST is such an amazing privilege, a glorious blessing; it surpasses every other kind of faith. Those that believe in the LORD are actually believing in the fullness of the word and in doing so get born of that word and become a new being that is akin to the word they have believed.

This privilege of being born of the word, of believing the word of GOD in its fullness is certainly greater than Mary’s privileged grace to birth the LORD. Indeed, the LORD knew that it was a lot more important for Mary to believe HIS ministry than to birth HIS person. Similarly, the one that believes the HIS word, the one that believes in HIM, is born of the

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word of GOD in its fullness which is indeed a greater blessing than Mary bearing forth JESUS from her blessed womb.

What is more is that the privilege of being born of the word allows us an even greater privilege; that of birthing the word as well. Being born of the word implies that we are of the same specie with the word since every seed produces after its own kind. Therefore, having been born of the word we are now ‘word-specie’ or rather of the very same form and content with the word. That is why Paul referred to the saints in Corinth as living epistles.

However, having been born of the word and therefore sharing the life of the word, then we are able to produce the word; we can bear forth the very

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same word, the very same kind that has itself birthed us to being.

This I believe is the significant highlight that the birth of Mary was a sign pointing to. Every believer in CHRIST carries in their spiritual womb the very life of CHRIST as word. The word in your spirit contains the very life of CHRIST which is the fullness of GOD.

Now that privilege ranks quite higher than that of Mary because the Child she bore had HIMSELF stripped HIMSELF of HIS glory in heaven before descending into her womb as seed conceived of the HOLY SPIRIT. However, the believer in CHRIST carries in their womb, in their spirit, the very essence of the word,

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the very fullness of GOD in all of HIS glory. Birthing that word then constitutes are far greater wonder than Mary’s birthing of the Holy Child JESUS.

That is amazing; many believers have not come to terms with this. Many do not realize how much is actually conceived in them by the HOLY SPIRIT as a result of believing in CHRIST. They just presume that their faith in CHRIST is a ticket to heaven without realizing that when they believed, the word was conceived in them and they now carry in their womb the very fullness of GOD as HIS word.

What that means is that every believer is indeed the mother of CHRIST, every believer is indeed able to make manifest the fullness of GOD in this world. It doesn’t matter what you think, when you believed

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CHRIST, your spirit man was conceived with the fullness of the word making you pregnant with all of GOD Almighty.

You are the woman that the apostle John saw in glory, adorned with the sun, standing of the womb, carrying seven stars on her one hand, travailing in child birth. Every believer is that amazing woman that Paul variedly refers to as the Jerusalem that is above (Galatians 4:22-31). In your womb, is the male child CHRIST JESUS in the fullness of HIS glory awaiting to be born.

So, I dare you to look at the sign of Mary’s birth and meditate seriously on what it is pointing at; consider seriously your privilege as a believer that GOD has

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entrusted this amazing of responsibilities to birth HIS glory in full. From now on, refuse the notion that you are an empty believer or person; refuse the notion that nothing good can come out of you. Wake up to the glory that is in your womb and know that out of you is coming forth the very fullness of GOD.

Yes, the word in you can become the word from you; the word that is the fullness of GOD in your spirit can become the word that is the fullness of GOD manifested by you to your generation. I declare to you these inspirations from Mary to provoke you to believe even as she did and bring forth to your generation the glory that GOD has deposited in your spirit.

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You are full of grace and blessed is the fruit of your spiritual womb; now, let us see that glory come out of you and shake this world.

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