transformational intercession – Strategic Prayer Command Ministry

The Tent Movement is Ramping Up

Featured by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in anointing, Church, humility, Marketplace Ministry, Revival, spiritual mapping, spiritual warfare, intercession, God's Army, warriors, intercessors, warfare prayer, transformational intercession, transformation, melissa nordell, transformation, Uncategorized

56990170_10157103839634868_6164210940951658496_o — **An effective Prayer Tent at the Orange Blossom Festival in Lindsay, CA**

By Melissa Nordell

A movement of prayer tents has been spreading throughout communities, big and small. Groups of believers interested in kingdom change and demonstrating the love of Jesus have been motivated to get outside the walls of the church and into the streets to promote the truth about Jesus Christ under prayer tents.

Here the love of Jesus is shared through pure fruits of the Spirit as in Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”

The tents break down barriers like nothing else can. There is no pretense, no preaching, no law, no Christian jargon nor lingo, no politics – just love and compassion. There are no hidden agendas or fees, no judgmentalism, no offerings taken, no arguments – just light. All prayer seekers are spoken to with honor and respect as Jesus would, without drama or embarrassment.

Barriers are broken. Hearts are lifted. Hope is restored.

One awesome example is a couple, Juan and Patty Tirado, of Porterville, CA who have erected prayer tents in many venues such as swap meets and concerts. At “The Blessing of the Bikes” they have encountered levels of desperation from “everyday folks” that has been alarming. People are looking for answers, as societal stress levels have risen.

patty and juan — **Juan and Patty Tirado, celebrating lives changed after an event**

Patty reports that God first put it on her heart to offer prayer on Facebook, as she felt an urgency to reach friends and family about Christ. This Facebook prayer page quickly evolved into a mini revival with people Patty didn’t even know watching how she prayed because they did not know how to communicate with God, much less petition Him. Many testimonies soon came back to Patty and Juan. Patty realized that she wanted to do more and reach more people.

At the same time, God was putting it on Juan’s heart to start a tent or canopy approach to offer prayer since he had been watching Todd White ‘let Jesus be Jesus’ in communities. This led to the Tirados offering prayer tents in parks and other local venues as God told them; “I need you out there praying for My people.”

Juan first told the Lord “no,” but God eventually changed his heart through a vision he received of a great revival, with God telling him to “fish” wherever he wanted. In the vision, Juan went to the depths of hell where he yearned for the resurrection of his body. God showed him revival and reformation, and how God had called him to set people free.

Now Juan and Patty offer prayer in many communities in the Central Valley of California under their tents.

Soon, testimonies began to pour in. One woman, whose granddaughter was held captive in an unknown location, asked for intercession. She came back to the Tirado’s to report that the very night she asked for prayer, the perpetrator was airlifted to a hospital and her granddaughter was able to somehow flee her captivity. Police found her and took her to safety that very night!

One beauty is that there is usually little or no cost involved to putting up the tents. Also, nothing is advertised. It is just the Holy Spirit drawing people to the tents, which are often picnic or “pop-up” tents that many people have in their garage. Sometimes free bottled water and bookmarks with scriptures are handed out with a business card for follow-up and testimonies.

A few tents have included a live worship group or single worshipper; but the main idea is just offering Jesus’ love, for it is the “Good News” of Jesus Christ that leads all to repentance. Most have handmade signs that read “Want Prayer?” “Free Prayer” or “Prayer Here” in both English and Spanish to passersby.

tirado tent — **Tulare County Prayer Request, after setting up their prayer tent and awaiting those needing intercession at an event**

After setting up, the prayer tent is prayed over and anointed; then the Lord is exalted (Ps 100:4) and the Holy Spirit invited to flow. Next, the workers take communion. As people flow in and they begin to pray, the workers (working at least in “two’s”) take a little time to let God’s Presence rest on the person seeking prayer – then smiles come and they see a thousand pounds lifted off the prayer pursuer.

As the scripture says “”Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven” (Matt 18:19).

Prayer seekers are encouraged to ask for forgiveness and restitution along with their requests. The praying volunteers seek the Lord’s knowledge, guidance and direction for each person’s needs and for the root of the problem. Many arrive desperate for help, asking for prayer in a place they perceive to be a safe non-intimidating environment. After the prayer, sources for a church or ministry are offered.

The volunteers report that all types of people from all walks of life come to the prayer tents without hesitation because there is no pretense nor expectations which the seeker would expect in a church, and because that seeker does not know the “prayor”. Jesus indeed is the focus as He is the answer to the great needs of the people. It’s time that we go out and share His mercy and compassion without encumbrances.

The Tirados consider it all fun, interesting and life-changing in every circumstance, no matter what. However, they advise that this type of ministry is not for the “faint of heart” and not for the immature or religious. Maturity, the Word and much wisdom are necessary. Volunteers need to know how to spread God’s love and hope to a diverse cross-section of people.

Juan reports that the most opposition that they have felt was at a July 4th celebration. Beforehand, the Lord told him to just show love; and when he did, many people were saved, and lives were changed. Some people had been partying and drinking; however, people came up to the tent for prayer for such things as addictions and family problems. One family was facing eviction.

Some recognized that substance abuse was not changing their circumstances or relieving their pain. Juan says, “it was their day!” The Tirado’s did not argue with anyone, as some tried, but just shared Jesus’ love; and that was the key. Juan emphasizes that there are “hurting people out there and there is no time for politics, strife or religion.”

“All people are good,” he says. “Just some have gone wrong a little bit.”

Sindee, one of the “local missionaries” in her own organized prayer tents reports that people come in bound, broken, hungry and thirsty for answers and help. They leave with hope, smiling and laughing.

One woman came in hurriedly, fearing a stalker and asking for prayer that he would cease. She reports, “that woman left with peace, calm and the presence of Jesus upon her.”

Chris and Christine Callahan of C & C Callahan Ministries have obtained permits to use city parks in different cities and sponsor events they call RTC Block Parties (Revive Tulare County). The events include worship music, testimonies, face painting, free food, free haircuts, a bounce house, games and raffles.

At some events, fancy car groups or Christian motorcycle groups participate. Beforehand, Christians pray over the city and the park. At one recent event, each prayer tent had long lines of people asking for prayer. They estimated that 500 people attended the latest event with about 60 receiving prayer and intercession, with some accepting Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and some receiving instant physical and emotional healing.

Many people stop by for prayer at prayer tents even if there is no event used as a draw. Sometimes it is not the homeless or disadvantaged but people of means who stop their cars and park, asking for prayer, needing hope and someone to agree with them in love. Many are believers who do not know where to turn, needing help, some even doubting their beliefs, and some with no church home.

Individuals have stopped for prayer and healing for such issues as cancer or other illnesses, depression, emotional issues and family problems. At times, police and first-responders have asked for intercession for healing of trauma, stress, family issues, and safety. Several nurses have stopped by asking for prayer for stress and the burden of their vocation.

The Tent Movement brings the Good News to the streets, highways and byways. The tents are never placed beside a church or on church property but on vacant lands, construction areas, downtown or uptown, parks, private homes in neighborhoods, booths in fairs or swap meets, outreaches, or on busy streets, farmlands and crossroads.

Tents can also be set up in disaster areas, homeless hangouts, drug-infested areas and in streetwalker territory. And, not surprisingly, police often welcome the tents in oppressed areas. It’s time that the Church ceases ignoring the great needs of the people who are outside the church.

Each time a person asks for prayer, more light is shed in the darkness of the cities. As it says in Eph 5:8 &9: “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth).” This is how we change a world full of darkness – by bringing light, healing and compassion.

How will they hear unless someone tells them? How will they see unless we go out? For as the Word says in Mark 4:21, “And he said to them, ‘Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? No, that light is to go out into the darkness to help a dying world.” As Christians, we are called to bring that light out into dark places; not just keep our light where other lights surround us all the time!

The tent movement is made up of nameless, faceless, grassroots Christians, foretold to bring the greatest Revival and Reformation ever seen. This movement must involve groups of prayer warriors whose only goal is to reach souls, lift burdens, and bring growth and change to the kingdom. These warriors do not want accolades or recognition – they just serve the Lord and want to see people saved and to know the love of Jesus Christ.

In Luke 10:2, Jesus told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field”. We may understand seed planting but don’t really understand how to operate in harvest. We must launch our nets into deeper waters, into areas we are not accustomed, to get the greatest catch, or harvest.

It is the organizers prayer that others catch the vision and erect these pop-up tents of prayer in every city and town to spread the love of Jesus, not in a way that people of the world expect from the church. Youth groups, home fellowships, recovery ministries, Bible study groups, men’s and women’s groups can each have their own tents organized. The Word says in Isa iah 49:6: “….I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” It is time that we, the Church, be that light and life to a hurting, fearful and distressed world.

Mark 16:15 is Jesus’ words: “And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation’”. The words “Go into the world” is a command, a mandate, not an option. It does not say “just ask people into your church!” It says to go out into the world and bring Him to them. No one is beyond reach and no one is beyond God’s love. We need to take seriously words of Jesus and act like Him in this dark world. If every Bible-believing church and ministry in every city and town erected a prayer tent, think how much light would be shed, how many lives would be changed; and how your nation and the world would change for Jesus Christ!

Types of Intercessors: what type are you?

Featured by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in anointing, characteristics of an intercessor, Marketplace Ministry, spiritual warfare, intercession, God's Army, warriors, intercessors, warfare prayer, transformational intercession, transformation, melissa nordell, transformation

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“There is a sphere of authority that you have that no one can touch like you can” (Cindy Jacobs)

King James Bible
And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.
Holman Christian Standard Bible
I searched for a man among them who would repair the wall and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land so that I might not destroy it, but I found no one.

New International Version
“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land, so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one. Ezek 22:30 (all emphasis mine)

So….Job, Samuel, David, Moses, Hannah, Paul, William Seymour, Rees Howells, Lou Engle, others, and above all, JESUS, were examples of how just one stood in the gap through intercession to repair the walls that separated people and things from God – and they helped so many – you can too as one person!

Definition of an Intercessor: One who intercedes; one who goes between. An intercessor is a person who by calling or by nature chooses to be a mediator on behalf of those who need intervention through intercession and perhaps cannot intercede for themselves. This includes standing in the gap for not only a person, but people groups, a body of believers, the land, a business, a region. An intercessor builds on the concept of prayer but moves beyond personal conversation with God and petitions and follows Holy Spirit’s leading. An intercessor waits on Holy Spirit’s direction and does accordingly.

Through intercession, we get the tremendous honor of being a bridge between a person or place that still needs to fully experience God and all He has for them, transforming them in God’s kingdom aspects. This is often referred to as “standing in the gap.” When there is a person or circumstance still defined by things that do not represent God’s heart, such as brokenness, sin, poverty, lack of salvation or injustice, an intercessor recognizes a gap between the present reality and the truth and possibilities of God’s kingdom—a kingdom of wholeness, truth, love and justice. Through following Holy Spirit, that intercessor listens for God’s plan to make a change for the good, to transform; allowing His kingdom to come and His will to be done in the situation.

Types of Intercessor Specialties

Intercessors and especially leaders need to be well versed in all areas of intercession with experience in all. However, this list shows how some feel a specific “bent”, specialty, lean and concern for certain areas of expertise; or frequently find themselves interceding for one of these specific areas. By no means does an intercessor just intercede always in one area. A pitfall for all intercessors is to intercede for your particular “bent” in corporate intercession when the group is going a different direction, not following the leader’s or Holy Spirit’s direction, or not following the purpose for which that assembly has been organized.

Warfare Intercessors – These intercessors are typically involved in high-level spiritual warfare, binding and loosing. They follow the Lord and battle against His enemies and are familiar with demonic hierarchies and how things work in the spirit realm. Pitfalls: warring too much; having an angry spirit; having no mercy; always in war mode; getting in the flesh; binding but not replacing; binding in the wrong timing; not binding backlash; and getting ahead of Holy Spirit.

Transformational Intercessors – These intercessors intercede prophetically, asking the Lord what is needed for a city, a church, a business or a region to bring kingdom change, or “transformation”. Most often, this involves repentance most of all, but also includes warfare, prophetic acts and dance intercession. It involves finding what has defiled the land by inquiring of the Lord, often confirming through historical facts. Pitfalls: not correctly hearing from the Lord; not inquiring of the Lord properly and doing it without His direction; not having proper “alignment” or protection; going it alone; doing things out of His timing; binding principalities when He has not authorized it and/or He has not given the name of the spirit specifically (hence always binding Jezebel for instance).

Political Intercessors – These have a healthy burden for things in the political arena that need change. Pitfalls: thinking about politics too much; getting in the flesh; getting angry in an ungodly way; being in fear; arguing about politics with others.

Crisis Intercessors – These intercede for crises and immediate needs like 9/11, Japan’s 3/11 Tsunami, Amber Alerts. Example: Abraham in Gen 18 interceded for Sodom and Gomorrah. Pitfalls: stress and lack of sleep; taking on too many problems; taking on the burden physically.

Birthing or Midwife Intercessors – These intercessors love to “birth” souls, new ministries, schools and Godly businesses. This may involve travailing, which is a type of birthing intercession. Midwife intercessors sometimes help the travailing intercessor to birth what Holy Spirit is wanting to birth. Example: Elijah when he was praying for it to rain got down in the birthing position seven times before the rain cloud formed (1Kings 18). Pitfalls: doing it in the flesh; not following Holy Spirit. Be aware that there might be several birthing at the same time.

Prophetic Acts Intercessors – These are Ezekiel and Jeremiah type intercessors that act out what the Lord tells them to do with specific prophetic acts. Example: Jeremiah burying his underwear, eating the scroll etc. Pitfalls: they can be accused of being weird; need to be able to not succumb to rejection.

Compassion and Mercy Intercessors – These feel compassion for others, especially for the lost. They feel other’s needs and hurts. They intercede for certain age and people groups such as the elderly, children, schools and colleges, foster kids, babies, the sexually exploited; certain races, or the ill. Example: Hannah; Jeremiah the Weeping Prophet weeping for Judah/Israel; Epaphras in Col 4:12. Pitfalls – “unsanctified mercy”; taking on too many burdens and not giving the burden of it to the Lord; taking it on physically to the point of physical illness.

Dance Intercessors and Worship Warriors – These intercessors intercede through dance and worship. Sometimes this type of dance includes prophetic acts and gestures (“He teaches my hands to war” Ps 144:1), and sometimes a warring dance. This includes banners, flags, hoops, tambourines. Why does this and all prophetic acts work so well? – it is by faith and all the glory has to go to God and not yourself. Example: Anna in Luke 2:36-38; Miriam. Pitfalls: if this type of intercessor stays in the outer court and does not enter the Holy of Holies, not much will be accomplished. Some dance intercessors feel like they enter the Holy of Holies but in fact have not. Every intercessor needs to know how to get into Holy of Holies to intercede and to worship. Prophetic dance intercession is not always warring. Performance and man-pleasing is a pitfall as well.

Personal Intercessors – These intercessors are called and sometimes appointed to intercede for pastors and leaders as a specific assignment. Pitfalls: gossip about the leader, not keeping things confidential or trying to control that leader; pride in position; charismatic witchcraft.

Marketplace Intercessors – These intercessors are called and often appointed to intercede for certain businesses. Some may intercede for a certain industry or marketplace sector, as others may intercede for a specific business. Example: Joseph in Egypt. Pitfalls: wanting the glory or demanding money for successes; control.

Intercessors for Israel – All intercessors should intercede for Israel, but some have a specific burden for Israel and the Jewish people. (Ezek 33). Pitfalls: not knowing enough of the Word, the history of Israel or contemporary issues there.

Administrative Intercessors – These intercessors find it easy to gather people together, establish prayer chains, assemble people to intercede in a crisis, etc. These intercessors are sometimes the scribes for an intercession group. Example: Ezra, Mordecai. Pitfalls – not taking time to intercede but concentrating on the administration of it all too much.

Issues Intercessors – These intercessors see a need and seek to solve it. Example: Nehemiah, Ezra, Mordecai and Esther. Pitfalls: stopping too soon (which often happens), or interceding even after the Lord says it is enough; taking on the burden physically.

Issachar Intercessors – These intercessors feel a burden for times and seasons, or the future. They hear from the Lord about times and seasons, or are seers in this realm. Example: Anna, John the Revelator, Samuel, Daniel. Pitfalls: feeling the burden too much and not giving it to God after intercession; fear; misinterpretation.

An Analogy Between a Natural Army and Warfare; and God’s Army and Spiritual Warfare

Featured by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in anointing, characteristics of an intercessor, Church, humility, Revival, spiritual mapping, transformation

881850-armor-army-brunettes-girls-with-weapons-guns-helmets-sniper-rifles-snipers-soldiers-women Jer 51:20; Eph 6: 10-18; Luke 21:15; 1 Cor 14: 14-15, 1 Thess 5:13-23, Luke 10:19-20, 2 Tim 2:1-7

There is a distinct correlation between God’s Army and Spiritual Warfare; and a natural army and warfare. Let’s explore some of the similarities. We are not talking about war against people or natural things – but spiritual warfare.

You have been enlisted from the time you were in your mother’s womb, whether you like it or not. We are all in a war whether we like it, or realize it, or not. However, you must be trained, pass tests, have strength and agility, be safe and smart, know how to operate weaponry, be mentally able, be willing to die. Soldiers are tested and tried by fire. They never go to war without basic training and need to pass it. Devote your life to the cause. Some say that God has already done it and we need to do nothing – but is your whole family and your whole city saved? Are people lining up outside before church to get inside? We have been commissioned and commanded to do warfare. Do not cheapen the Blood of Jesus who gave this authority to us by His Blood.
Every soldier must follow orders from his/her superior officer and ultimately the Generals and Commander in Chief (God, Jesus, Holy Spirit), otherwise that soldier can be court-martialled, hurt others or cause all to lose the battle. You must walk in alliance and submission to the Commander in Chief, Generals, your officer, Do not speak badly about your commanding officers. Have loyalty and unity. No dissension. No gossip. If there is a problem, handle it maturely like the Bible says (Matt 18:15-16). You may have to accept correction or seemingly harsh training so you can survive the real war and make a difference. Take orders willingly. (Unless those orders are not biblical, of course, but handle that in a mature, biblical fashion as well)
Know your enemy. The enemy is studied for its supply lines, supply houses, weaponry, warfare tactics, where its strongman is, who the strongman is, etc. You must have good discernment of the enemy/evil spirits, by the Spirit and not in your head. Discernment is always by the Spirit or, in other words, prophetic in nature. Armies defeat the enemy by destroying strongholds, weapons cache, supply lines etc. so you must know these things about the enemy. Many have spoken and written books against warfare intercessors, saying that we concentrate too much on the enemy; however, if it is your assignment from the Lord to be a warfare intercessor, you absolutely must know your enemy (demons) as well as those fighting with you (angels). Soldiers must be balanced. There is always a balance in the kingdom of God. As Christians, we must respect others’ assignments and giftings. We must try to understand and support each other even though we have differing gifts and jobs in the kingdom. Also, be aware that there are innumerable names of demons. (1 Cor 12: 20-21; 2 Cor 10:2-5)
You must be healed from all wounds before going out to war. Get inner healing & deliverance. Get cleaned up, healed in the infirmary (healing room or counseling or deliverance) to get free of warfare PTSD and all spiritual, emotional wounds. No soldier should go out to war when wounded, sick, or with church PTSD or spiritual warfare PTSD. More than in a natural army, in God’s army these things can be totally healed.
You must know your weapons and be very familiar with them, handle them safely and correctly, be able to use them in the dark or when hurt. You don’t want to use a defective weapon. Your weapons can be your words, The Word, prophetic gestures, fasting, worship, warfare dance, flags, tongues, shout, shofar, instruments, anointing oil, pleading His Blood, prophetic acts, declarations, and many more.
Be in unity with the other soldiers – no anger or aught against the others. Know those with whom you war. Each unit marches together, united for one common cause. Soldiers are taught to march together succinctly. One does not try to outstep or overtake the other. Soldiers let leaders correct other soldiers when they need correction. Do not get into strife with your team. No “friendly fire” = don’t kill or wound other soldiers. Be extremely careful, for other’s sakes and your own. Every soldier is needed in this war. Help others. Be able to bring healing, to rescue, to do first aid for other soldiers and help heal their wounds. Encourage others. Stronger soldiers help the weaker. Lift up the one who falls and save the wounded – don’t wound them more. Do not gossip or bear false witness against another soldier or leader. Soldiers fight together with those who are Black or White, male or female, young or old, etc. No soldier left behind! (Matt 18:15-16; Luke 9: 49-50; Gal 3:28)
Do not talk about your warfare with the unsaved unless led by the Lord. Don’t use military terms to the unsaved, like “spiritual warfare,” because they won’t understand – they take things literally. Watch your words carefully. Some have spoken of ”tearing down the Washington Monument” for instance, referring to it as a phallic symbol but the secular world does not understand this is spiritual and not in the natural. They have believed that Christians want to destroy United States monuments. The same has happened with speaking of “tearing down the Statue of Liberty” meaning removing the demonic presence of this statue, as an example; but the world takes that literally too. State your words carefully to others who may not understand. For instance, explain that we are not wanting to destroy a statue or art object but wish to destroy the evil presence that may inhabit that statue. Most importantly, keep your words to yourself to the secular world who cannot possibly understand until they are saved.
Soldiers must be fearless, courageous, free of anxiety; but careful and mature, not impulsive in a dangerous way. Don’t get overly angry, anxious or emotional so that it causes you to do something wrong. Keep a level head. Be stable. Be flexible. (Eph 6:12) Never war in the flesh or in anger like Peter in the Garden of Gethsemane when he cut off the soldier’s ear – be loving like Jesus who put the ear back on!
Focus on the cause and who/what you are fighting for. It’s never your own agenda, but God’s. Soldiers don’t war for self. Remember your mission and stick to that. Write your vision and make it plain; then review it periodically. Know what you are fighting for – your title, promotion, or recognition? Or for more salvations, light for the kingdom, dispelling darkness? What are your motives for being a soldier? (Hab 2:2)
Keep your armor on (belt of truth, shield of faith, etc.) at all times. Know your armor, do not put it on as a ritual but daily in the spiritual, knowing why each part of the armor is there and be comfortable with it. Do an in-depth study of this, just as any natural soldier would concerning his/her armor and would be very familiar with theirs. (Eph 6: 13-17)
Be highly trained in your special job. Stick to your task, your assignment. Some are “snipers”, some back up others, some are militia, some are Navy Seals, some are bombardiers, some musicians, some birth (travail), some build, some are generals, some captains, etc.
Keep going no matter what happens around you. Persevere. Never give up. Be highly trained in survival no matter what happens. Know how to keep your hope and not be discouraged. Don’t let the enemy stop your warfare by effecting you psychologically. Even failure does not equal failure unless you let it be a failure. (Eph 6:18)
Don’t be entangled with the affairs of life (2 Tim 2: 4). This means that we do not take our personal issues and problems into the war zone and let it affect us there – get healed first and let it go before doing warfare. Natural soldiers are not allowed letters or phone calls from home in certain times of war so that adverse news from home does not affect the whole group of soldiers adversely, causing distraction. (For instance, my nephew was not allowed any news from home while being in submarine communications during Desert Storm).
Sometimes you can’t defend yourself in words. Let God vindicate you. Soldiers know when to keep their mouths shut. You must trust your commander (God).
You must know how to survive rejection, persecution, being a prisoner of war, taunting – without it hurting you. Let it mature you. Any adversity should make you grow, like Paul in prison and Daniel in Babylon.
Can you do the job and are you willing to study for it? Know the basics of the Church, Jesus’ words, and what brings Reformation, Transformation, and salvations. Study transformational intercession and the difference between intercession and prayer. Study spiritual warfare. Officers always go to training school and study past wars and battles. Map out how much time you actually spend in the Word each day and in His Presence, making a log.
Don’t let unsanctified mercy or compassion overrule what God says to do. A soldier does not have “unsanctified mercy” (= too much mercy for the enemy, allowing the enemy to trick you, doing things that God has not authorized, or going overboard in mercy), but follows Holy Spirit. Unsanctified mercy can allow the enemy to come into the camp and destroy the entire army and take your spoils. An example is King Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20, who let the enemy see into the palace.
Know your authority in God. Use your authority in God. Know who backs you up. A soldier does not show fear to the enemy but shows true authority. Exercise the Jesus in you. Greater is He that is in you! (1 John 4:4; Jer 1:10; Prov 3:6)
Never lean on your own understanding – but on God’s. (2 Tim 4:2; Prov 3:5)
Don’t carry guilt. Conviction from Holy Spirit is healthy and leads to change, but guilt can destroy and cause you to be off-balance. Guilt can cause PTSD in soldiers. Repent of sin and don’t repeat the sin – but let go of guilt.
Soldiers must be physically and mentally fit, with good character, strong in battle. You must exercise your gift and grow in character and maturity continually. Soldiers train on their own, not just during training times – so get healthy and study your manual (the Word) on your own, get rid of flesh and grow in character – don’t leave it up to your pastor.
Be on guard and ready to do battle at a moment’s notice; sleep with “one eye open” and with your weapons beside you. Be instant in and out of season. A soldier is never off guard but always listens to Holy Spirit and his commanders. Be ever ready and vigilant, always on the lookout, listening to your commander, and always “prayed up.” Things can change in an instant. Always keep your eyes and ears open. (2 Tim 4:2; 1Pet 5:8)
You must follow orders precisely and be in perfect timing, not ahead of the Commander (Holy Spirit), and not behind in timing. You can get others killed or lose the whole war if your timing is not precise and if you are doing it on your own orders. Be sure of your prophetic gifting and hearing the Lord’s voice. Get prophetic training and perfect your gift. You must know His (your Commander in Chief’s) voice and must be able to discern the voice of the enemy. Therefore, you must know prophecy and by reason of use, practice it. (Heb 5:14) This might be the most important and most critical aspect of warfare. Take courses in hearing God’s voice (I highly recommend Dr. Bill Hamon’s three main books on prophecy and his modules on prophecy). This prevents you from danger and provoking the enemy.
Judah (worship) always goes first – as in any natural war. But Judah never goes alone, never without the warriors. You must always enter His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise, then worship to go into battle by entering the Holy of Holies – this is the way to be safe in warfare. Every natural army has a band or bugler, calling the army to war. Some instill fear in the enemy’s camp with their worship, prophetic dance, and shofars. (Josh 6; 2 Chron 20:33: Ps 100:4).
War in truth, never in error. You must know the Word and interpret it correctly. Know exactly what the Bible says about spiritual warfare so you will not be deceived. Don’t add to the Bible. Don’t just memorize but know the concepts, the meaning, and meditate on the Word. (Rev 22:18-19)
Don’t argue with those with more experience or knowledge, or your superiors. It’s okay to state your opinion but listen to those who know more about the Word and have more true experience (tested and tried) in warfare. Listen to those with more experience and higher rank for advice, direction, wisdom, and knowledge, Verify everything by the Word.
It does not matter how long you have been in the army (God’s or natural) if you haven’t learned much along the way. It matters what and how much you have learned. No soldier is promoted just on years serving – ever. Be ever-growing. Be teachable. Wisdom is the principle thing. Promotion comes from maturity and growth – not years of experience. (Prov 4:7)
God’s warriors can spiritually take the spoils for the kingdom. Soldiers get paid but their true reward is in heaven and knowing the lives you save. However, you can take the spoils and demand what the devil has stolen every time you war. (Isa 33:23)
Intercessors are watchmen – they report back to the leader (God, the pastor or prayer leader) but never control the leader. It is that leader’s decision as to what to do with your watchman report; not yours. Give the report to the leader when appropriate and don’t grumble if the leader does not do exactly what you believe should happen. Some intercessors have made the mistake of controlling the pastor or a leader, thinking that they hear God better than the pastor about what the church should be doing; and when the pastor does not do what they think he/she should do, they have complained, spoke or prayed against him/her, or left the church – don’t do this.
Soldiers do not judge people unrighteously, but they do judge spirits and judge whether the enemy is going to attack, where he will attack from, etc. They can judge whether there is a “spy” or witch in the camp, but this is always by Holy Spirit, prophetically, and rare in occurrence. Don’t go on ungodly “witch-hunts”.
Never desert the leaders, or the Army, or God. Maintain your position that you are assigned. Do not go AWOL. Never be a lone wolf – these are not part of an army, they are renegades. Watchmen…stay on the wall!
Always be properly aligned with a church or ministry that knows warfare who can cover you, give you advice, and understand your gift. Sometimes warrior intercessors are misunderstood but it may mean that they don’t have the right covering or are not in the right church that understands their gift. Do not war on your own even if you feel you are misunderstood – it may mean that you need correction or that you are in the wrong church. Be sure to hear clearly from the Lord about this because He may want you to fight for that church and stay. Commanders should know a great deal about the jobs of the soldiers under him/her.
Never give clues to the enemy. Never show the enemy where he can attack you or get you off course. A soldier must know how to keep his/her mouth shut. Know the power of your words. Do not gossip. You must always be stealth; don’t warn the enemy. Be like Navy Seals. Soldiers don’t talk about their operations or plans where the enemy can hear (always bind the enemy from hearing your intercessory war plans ahead of time and immediately after – see my blog for info). It is very dangerous and gives the enemy clues if you bind demons without God’s clear direction and timing. Safe warfare is possible when following Him. Be careful with your words and do not empower the enemy by talking about your fears, how he has affected you in warfare adversely, how bad the warfare is, etc. – there is balance in this too. It is a very dangerous thing to do when warring and can destroy a church when you do not just follow the Lord in intercession. Intercessors have often copied other intercessors, giving the enemy clues and taunting him, provoking him. It is not following the Lord by saying such things as “I stand against ____ (spirit name or satan)_____” which only taunts the enemy; it is better to be proactive = STOP that spirit, tell it to go away, or bind it. Standing against does nothing but provoke it. Never say such things as; “I bind____(spirit name)____ for 30 days.” (I have often heard this – it not only does not make any logical sense but is not biblical and is not following Holy Spirit and empowers the enemy as well). See #48- scud missiles.
Repent of your mistakes. Repent of your sins. Own your mistakes. If there is true repentance, there is change and the bad behavior and bad warfare stops. Soldiers can never blame-shift or lie. Get rid of your own sin so there are no inroads. Don’t get a dishonorable discharge!
Have peace amid the battle. Be able to rest in war. It is possible to rest in war just like Jesus was calm and rested in the storm. You can rest when you trust in Him and follow His orders.
You must have a battle strategy. Have a plan and study it. Confer with others when needed, and have mentors and wise counselors. (Prov 12: 15; Prov 11:14)
Get rid of all pride – you must have humility. The only pride that a soldier should have is pride in God’s power and ability. Without Him, you can do nothing. It is He that gives the power, does the action, and gives the victory. Soldiers don’t brag. Give God ALL the Glory for victories. Pride is dangerous and is a sin. (Matt 26:41)
A soldier is not indifferent, asleep, or lazy. Soldiers are committed to the cause, powerful, energetic, focused, and alert.
A soldier is not lacking in love or compassion, and always wars in love. The only one you can hate is the devil. Be sure to differentiate between war in the Old Testament with that of the New Testament. Mercy always triumphs over judgment. As in natural warfare, a soldier needs to not war with people at home or in the community when returning from warfare – the same goes for God’s warriors who must differentiate between anger against the devil and his demons vs natural surroundings and occurrences. Those who show no mercy will be shown no mercy. (James 2:13) The whole Bible is important, and the Old Testament gives us war strategies in analogous form; but we all live in the New Testament Age, so war in love always. Refresh yourself with reading the red letters of Jesus in the New Testament. Intercessors are not called by God to mame, hurt, or destroy people. Warriors need to be careful when not warring in intercession, to not be angry in the natural.
A soldier does not do charismatic witchcraft and knows what that term means. A soldier does not harm the innocent or pray his own will, but God’s will. (Eph 6:12; Eph 5:17) Charismatic witchcraft is praying your will and not God’s; also termed “soulish prayers”. If you are following Holy Spirit, charismatic witchcraft will not happen. When in doubt when praying, add “whatever is your will, Lord” to the end of your intercession.
A soldier must protect himself and others. Always war safely. Soldiers walk circumspectly, meaning that they are careful in their walk, avoiding landmines. Always bind backlash and plead the Blood of Jesus with every intercession time, prayer time and prophetic meeting. Know what “pleading the Blood of Jesus” means. Warfare is not dangerous when following guidelines and following Holy Spirit. (Eph 5:15) Many books and sermons have been written saying that spiritual warfare should not be done, as they believe it is too dangerous. However, this happens when not following Holy Spirit, when not interceding by the Word, when doing charismatic witchcraft or soulish prayers, when not taking proper precautions, and when not binding backlash.
A soldier knows the serious consequences of not winning a battle and what happens to a person who goes to hell. Therefore, soldiers have compassion for the lost and are concerned about souls above all. (I encourage you to read 23 Minutes in Hell, by Bill Weise)
You must know how to get into His Presence and what true worship is. You must know how directions from Holy Spirit come from being in the Throne Room (His Presence), the Holy of Holies. You must know the difference between praise and worship and other songs that do not glorify the Lord. Precise and safe warfare comes from being in the Holy of Holies. (Ps100:4)
Soldiers must have integrity, honesty, and self-control. You must be disciplined. Know the 7 things God hates. (Prov 6:16-19)
After a war, the soldiers rebuild and replace. (Matt 12:45) After binding demons, always rebuild the person or the city. Always replace demons that have been bound in a city and sent to the feet of Jesus. Replace with such things as: redemptive gifts strengthened and brought forth; good seeds to be brought forth; God’s Presence to prevail, etc. When a person is truly delivered, they need healing so that seven more do not return – the same is true for a city or church or business.
Don’t pay attention to distractors or naysayers, unrighteous judgers or those who are not listening to the Lord. Know the difference between distracting naysayers and when God is trying to tell you something or bring correction through others.
You must make good, wise and informed decisions. Wisdom is the principle thing in warfare. (Prov 4:7)
Focus on a specific target. Do not send out scud missiles but send out precise smart bombs that hit the target 100% of the time. This requires hearing from the Lord prophetically and precise timing. Do not just shoot when you think you should and shoot an enemy that God has not told you to shoot. Everything that infects a church or city is not only Jezebel, Leviathan or Python – there are so many more that you have not heard of yet, but the Lord can tell you what it is and why.
Know your weaknesses, and sometimes the weaknesses of others, so that you can improve yourself, help the weak ones be successful, and so you can be safe and we all win.
Know when to call for help.
Soldiers get R and R (rest and relaxation) when needed or when ordered by the Lord. No soldier should continually battle without some rest. Soldiers also need joy.
Do not engage the enemy unprotected so that a demon can infect you. Guard yourself and your spirit. Know safety precautions and use them. Don’t be haughty and go it alone when binding demons in any case. Never war in pride. I have seen many intercessors and deliverance ministers be “infected” demonically due to not following precautions, from getting prideful, or from going ahead of the Lord, out of His timing.
Soldiers always learn easier things before the harder. After they achieve lesser things, they can advance to the harder. For instance, never bind a principality before having successful experience in binding little “imp” demons. A warrior does not do things that he/she is not properly trained to do. For example, an infantryman does not jump into a stealth bomber and try to fly it without proper testing, training, instruction, and experience.
When your Commander calls you to attention, or when you are in His Presence, don’t talk – just listen! Be ready for Him to say “ATTENTION!”
Sometimes you must do seemingly smaller tasks before getting to the main perpetrator – the strongman. For instance, just like allied forces had to take out airports, supply lines, command posts, etc., before getting to Saddam Hussein in the Gulf War, in spiritual warfare we most often must repent, break ungodly ties and curses, and other tasks before binding a principality. This is always safe and in order by following the Lord’s voice.
Never engage with the enemy, meaning you don’t talk or argue with a demon – they cannot be reasoned with and always lie. Don’t “sleep with the enemy,” meaning that you don’t associate with or give power to an evil spirit (the enemy).
Know what can stop your intercession as written in the Bible. There are things, biblically, that can disqualify you. Unforgiveness, bitterness, not taking care of your wife, doubt, asking amiss, not helping the poor, and some other sins and iniquities are things that the Bible says stop your intercession from being heard. (James 1:5-7; 1 Pet 3:7; Prov 28:9; Ps 66:18; Isa 59:2; James 4:3; Prov 21:13)
Soldiers never retire. We are all soldiers for life.

AS WE SAY TO OUR SOLDIERS, WE SAY TO YOU INTERCESSORS: THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

What is Spiritual Mapping?

Featured by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in anointing, Church, Marketplace Ministry, Revival, spiritual mapping, spiritual warfare, intercession, God's Army, warriors, intercessors, warfare prayer, transformational intercession, transformation, melissa nordell, transformation

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What is Spiritual Mapping?

“It is an attempt to see our region as it really is and not as it appears to be. It is the discipline of diagnosing the obstacles to revival in a given community through fervent prayer and diligent research.” (George Otis Jr.)

Cindy Jacobs says that it is the researching of a city to discern any inroads Satan has made which prevent the spread of the gospel and its evangelization for Christ.

Victor Lorenzo says that spiritual mapping combines research, divine revelation, and confirmatory evidence in order to provide complete and exact data concerning the identity, strategies and methods employed by spiritual forces of darkness to influence the people and the churches in a given region.

Harold Caballeros says that, “what an X-ray is to a physician, spiritual mapping is to intercessors.”

Modern spiritual mapping involves following Holy Spirit who reveals the roots of darkness which are holding back God’s kingdom of light. When Holy Spirit reveals what we need to repent for, declare, bind and loose, which prophetic acts need to take place, what light to bring in, what redemptive gifts need to be strengthened in the spirit, etc., and we follow through, then the Church grows, people are eager to be saved, healed, delivered, grow and hear from God and they come willingly and easily. Spiritual mapping can involve transformation of the family, a church, a city, a business or a region. And it always involves prophetic or transformational intercession. (Melissa Nordell)

Some promoters of spiritual mapping identify three levels of warfare:

“Ground-level” warfare, which involves casting demons out of individuals, repentance, prophetic acts, etc.
“Occult-level” warfare, which tackles more organized spiritual wickedness and witchcraft (the most dangerous aspect)
“Strategic-level” warfare, which directly battles the “territorial spirits” (rulers of darkness and principalities), larger demons and demonic structures. Territorial spirits are thought to answer directly to satan and are responsible for coordinating all demonic activities within their sphere of influence.

Eph 6:11-12 “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Lev 18:27 “”All these detestable activities are practiced by the people of the land where I am taking you, and this is how the land has become defiled.”

Ezek 36:18 “So I poured out my wrath on them because they had shed blood in the land and because they had defiled it with their idols.”

2 Chron 7:13-15 “When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.”

Gen 1:28 “And God blessed them. And God said to them, “’Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”’

Isa 58 – read the whole chapter

Num 35:33-34: “This will ensure that the land where you live will not be polluted, for murder pollutes the land. And no sacrifice except the execution of the murderer can purify the land from murder.You must not defile the land where you live, for I live there myself. I am the Lord, who lives among the people of Israel.”

Lev 19:33-34: “Do not take advantage of foreigners who live among you in your land.Treat them like native-born Israelites, and love them as you love yourself. Remember that you were once foreigners living in the land of Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” (mistreatment of foreigners)

15 Good Characteristics of a Humble Intercessor

Featured by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in characteristics of an intercessor, Church, humility, spiritual warfare, intercession, God's Army, warriors, intercessors, warfare prayer, transformational intercession, transformation, melissa nordell

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15 Good Characteristics of a Humble Intercessor by Melissa Nordell

You are teachable and you can be corrected (Heb 12:6; Prov 15:31; 1 Pet 2:23; Prov 13:18 and Prov 12:1)
You are eager to learn and grow (Prov 9:9)
You rejoice when others are celebrated (Luke 15 The Prodigal Son; Jonah 4 Jonah and Nineveh – the prodigal brother and Jonah did not rejoice in other’s change for the good)
No job is too small for you with God (Mark 10:27)
You don’t have to be right (Matt 5:9; 1 Cor 13:5)
You naturally seek the wisdom of others and God (James 1:5; Eph 1:17; Prov 1:7)
You actually DO pray/intercede (1Thess 5:17)
You freely, readily admit your flaws, mistakes, and failures; but don’t focus on your shortcomings and the shortcomings of others (2 Cor 5:17; 2 Cor 7:10; Matt 7:1)
You live to help others succeed (Rom 15:1; John 15:13)
You aren’t “entitled” in an ungodly way (James 4:6; 1 Cor 13:4)
You are patient (1Cor 13:4)
You don’t promote yourself (1 Cor 13:4-5)
You give all the glory to God (Ps 115:1)
You respect others (including not interrupting others or being rude) (1 Cor 13:5)
You are joyful, happy, positive, hopeful (Prov 17:22; Phil 4:4; Jer 29:11)

Great helps regarding “character” for intercessors can be found in the Beatitudes (Matt 5), the Love Chapter (1 Cor 13) and the Fruits of the Spirit scriptures (Gal 5:22-23)

Binding Backlash: How and Why

September 11, 2018March 11, 2019 by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in Church, Revival, spiritual warfare, intercession, God's Army, warriors, intercessors, warfare prayer, transformational intercession, transformation, melissa nordell

Binding Backlash: How and Why by Melissa Nordell

It is very apparent that one of the biggest mistakes intercessors have made is to not bind backlash with every prayer or intercession. This means that the intercessor does not realize how vengeful, vindictive and hateful the devil and his cohorts really are. He is not a human being, does not have any redemptive qualities or compassion in him and does not play fair at all. Think of the worst dictator, terrorist or criminal – he is much worse than that! That is why every intercessor needs to know the enemy. We do not give him power, but we must be wise and know how he operates. Satan hates it whenever you pray the slightest prayer, never wanting you to communicate with God since he wants to be god himself. He is extremely jealous.

It is imperative that after every prayer or intercession session, whether alone or corporately, you MUST bind backlash for your protection and the protection of others. To think that it is not necessary for any reason is just ignorance and foolishness. Even if the leader does not bind backlash (although it is a good idea to teach them or remind them), you can always do it yourself for everyone present. Do not think that any session of talking to God will not cause the enemy to retaliate.

I have had so many saints tell me how they have been attacked, the many things they are going through with health, family, finances, how their church is attacked, etc. and I always ask if they bound backlash with every intercession and the answer is always: “no”. Do not discount that your intercession is important and damaging to the enemy’s camp, no matter how brief. It will always make the devil and his minions furious. I have seen churches destroyed, families torn apart, intercessors and their family members extremely ill, finances and properties stolen, and even death occur whenever this is not done. To not bind backlash is to leave doors wide open for satan to attack. In natural warfare after a fight, the soldiers must assure that the enemy will not be able to attack again – the area must be cleared and made safe.

Spiritual warfare is serious business and we always need to take strategic precautions. The “backlash script” included below is what has been developed through trial and error; and it works for all intercession. The most dangerous type of warfare is binding and loosing but this script is imperative for all sessions. Take my word for it, in 30 years of strategic intercession I have learned the hard way and have seen others learn the hard way – so take our advice and be safe, keep your family and church safe! Don’t be a needless casualty.

Copy this and put on your mirrors, in your car, in your Bible, in your prayer journal and share it with others. Please do not change it, as this is what works well.

War on, mighty warriors!

Melissa Nordell, SPCM

End of Intercession Declaration (Binding Backlash)

I (we) bind all backlash, retaliation and revenge and stop all assignments of the enemy against what I (we) prayed, and for any reason against me (us), all my (our) family and friends (and the land and its people and our destinies) in Jesus’ mighty name. And I (we) stop all communication of the enemy about my (our) intercession, in Jesus’ mighty name. I (we) plead the Blood of Jesus and place the hedge of protection around me (us) and all that pertains to me (us), all my (our) family and friends and all that pertains to them, in Jesus’ mighty name.

Good Teens who Make Bad Choices: Family turns Tragedy into Marketplace Ministry

August 29, 2018March 11, 2019 by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in Church, Marketplace Ministry

Good Teens who Make Bad Choices: Family turns Tragedy into Marketplace Ministry

by Melissa Nordell

Garison Steele, 14, was an energetic teen with a big heart for evangelism. Concerned that all of his friends would accept Christ and be in heaven with him later in life, Garison had prayed for months that his friend Troy would visit his family’s church, Joyful Sound in Porter, Texas, northeast of Houston. Troy accepted Garison’s invitation, partly to return many favors Garison had shown him.

At the end of the church service at Joyful Sound Church, Troy came forward to accept Christ as his personal savior. Garison was ecstatic, and after the service the boys asked if they could go to a local gas station less than a mile from the church. “I told him he better drive safe,” Garison’s mother, Betsy Steele, told Troy. “He was carrying my life with him.”

It was Garison’s first ride with a young, non-family driver. As he was leaving, Garison remembered he forgot to say goodbye, so he rushed back to the church, told his mom he loved her and kissed her on the cheek.

But it seemed to be taking a long time for the boys to return, so Betsy and Garison’s Aunt Jeannie phoned Garison on his cell phone — but there was no answer. Alarmed, Betsy and Jeannie got into Betsy’s car and traced the route Garison would have taken to the gas station.

The two sisters soon saw fire engines, police and other first responders a very short distance from the church. Behind the fire engines was a lone car wrapped around a tree, barely recognizable, which happened to be in the front yard of the house where Pastor Betsy and Garison’s father had been married.

Betsy tried to get to the vehicle as soon as she recognized it, remaining calm but praying for life, as she asked police about her son. However, the police restrained her because Betsy’s only son and his newly saved friend were killed instantly in the horrific crash.

First responders and neighbors began to ask Betsy, “Who was the third person in the car?” Several people reported they were sure that they had seen a third person when the car crashed. But there were only two boys in the car!

Betsy, Jeannie, and Grandmother Sally are convinced that third person was Jesus Himself. Both boys were carried to heaven in Jesus’ loving arms.

Investigators determined that Troy lost control of the vehicle when he hit a culvert at a high rate of speed, then the vehicle went airborne. The speedometer inside the vehicle was stuck on 84 mph.

“The boys both wore their seat belts, and alcohol and other drugs were not factors,” Betsy said. “It was just a young driver with his friend in the car making a bad decision.”

Like many parents, Betsy had no idea that car accidents were the leading cause of death for teens. However, statistics show that crashes account for more teen deaths than suicide and homicide combined. Drivers aged 16 to 19 are three times as likely to crash as more experienced drivers. Plus carrying passengers exacerbates those statistics. Only one teen passenger can increase crash risk by 48 percent.

With forgiveness, and after a few years of healing, Garison’s grandmother, Sally Pritchard, Senior Pastor of Joyful Sound Church, felt the Lord calling them to do something about these statistics. The family wants not only to save lives, but to reach out and tell others about the saving love of Jesus Christ to honor young Garison, his life gone too soon.

They soon joined the Teen Safe Driving Coalition and the HEARTS Network, both established by The Allstate Foundation and the National Safety Council. They also started a driving school, along with a “Garison Steele Safe Driver Elite Award,” an annual scholarship whose theme is “Steering Teens in the Right Direction”. The scholarships award teens who demonstrate safe driving based on recommendations from adults, writing a winning essay on responsible driving, and demonstrating a good example for their peers.

They named the school “G and P Community Driving School” after Garison and his “Papaw,” grandfather and Senior Pastor Harley Pritchard who graduated to heaven a few years after Garison. Harley had taught Garison about fixing cars and welding. They had together won “Best of Show” in the Houston Car Show with their jointly restored ’63 Mustang.

“Parents need to prepare their teens and make sure they demonstrate good driving habits,” Betsy said. “Even good teens make bad choices, and one wrong decision could take their teen forever.”

Turning a tragedy into marketplace ministry, they expect the scholarship and school will save lives and honor the memory and testimony of Garison Steele. At an annual church ceremony in his honor, his mother, Betsy, testified that Garison “carried the light of God’s love everywhere he went, and many hearts were changed.”

Betsy says that at first she wondered “why God would want me to go outside the church, but then one day while worshiping, I felt that God said I would reach teens that would never set their feet into a church and I would be able to show and demonstrate God’s love, joy, and peace to those teens and their parents…and that is exactly what happened.”

Pastor Betsy used the scripture 1 Peter 2:9 for the award ceremony: “that we may proclaim the love and praise of God who has called us out of darkness into his marvelous LIGHT.” Along with his family, Garison’s life has proven to be a legacy for saving lives, both in the physical and for eternity to come for many.

“It’s Time for a New Thrust in Spiritual Warfare”

August 25, 2018March 11, 2019 by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in Revival, spiritual warfare, intercession, God's Army, warriors, intercessors, warfare prayer, transformational intercession, transformation, melissa nordell, Uncategorized

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“It’s Time for a New Thrust in Spiritual Warfare” by Melissa Nordell

(published on Elijah List August 25, 2018)

The Old Vacuum

I had a dream recently that I must explain. In the dream, I was vacuuming with an old, red vacuum that was not picking up all the dirt. I could see what it had left on the floor as I was vacuuming. The smaller things were consumed by the vacuum, but the larger debris were not.

The vacuum was not a typical vacuum, it was also an old radio that looked “outer-space-like”—a design made from back in the last century. I remember items in the last century were sometimes designed to reflect what they expected the 21st century would look like—but they could not see how things would exactly unfold.

Get Ready for the New and Improved

Next in the dream I heard the Lord say, “I have a new vacuum.”

From the beginning, I knew this was a dream about spiritual warfare, as God has shown me transformational intercession as a “cleanup” many times in dreams. According to Dr. Barbie Breathitt in her A to Z Dream Symbology Dictionary, the color red symbolizes: “the Spirit of the Lord, anointing, power, prophetic anointing, prayer, evangelist, thanksgiving, the Blood of Jesus, Jesus’ healing Blood.” A vacuum cleaner can represent: “dust, debris, and dirt being removed by the wind of the Spirit.” Also, a radio can depict: “an ability to receive frequencies from airways, spiritually sensitive, prophetically gifted to hear the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit, prayer that activates the angels and the Spirit of the Lord.”

This old, 20th century vacuum was prophetically gifted but not as powerful as new vacuums would be in the future; however, it served its purpose for a time. It was an old design that needed improvement in both hearing (radio) and cleaning (vacuum). I believe this radio/vacuum was a symbol of hearing from God clearly, and cleaning up cities, churches and regions from evil. During the past movement in spiritual warfare, no one could see how the “new” one would look. Now it is time for the “new and improved.” God is giving us new spiritual warfare tools. He is developing, training and healing wounded and weary soldiers to clean up much more efficiently and so much quicker.

“It is time,” says the Lord, “for a newer, deeper, higher, bigger movement or thrust in spiritual warfare.” The most prominent apostles/prophets of our day are sounding this alarm. And “surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7).

The Spiritual Warfare Movement of the 90s and into the early 2000s was strategic and so necessary; transforming lives, cities, groups and churches. Now God is awakening something new, building on the old for new generations, a synergy of the ages.

The “Dry Bones Army” is Rising!

I am convinced that the decline in moral values, the 2008 financial crisis, the decline in church attendance, and ungodly political changes in the United States of recent years were due to the decline in the quantity and quality of spiritual warfare activity. As the last movement abated, God’s Kingdom lost ground. But we are arising now as the Ezekiel 37 “dry bones” army who have been given the breath of God again.

We are not just returning to an old movement. Rather, let us improve on it, increase it, restore what needs to be restored, revive that fire and passion, and pull out the rocks that have stopped up the wells of revival and transformation (Genesis 26). The wineskin of spiritual warfare of the last century is in a new wineskin; with new, ready, healthy and properly aged (matured) wine; better and sweeter than before.

This time, the renewing of spiritual warfare will be more united—as one army for a common cause. Saints will war with more insight, knowledge and wisdom. They will war with more faith and trust in God and with less assumption and presumption. Intercessors will follow Holy Spirit precisely, without getting ahead of Him. Warfare will be done in love for the Kingdom and its people, like Jesus said to do. Saints will war with precise prophetic direction and strategies, going deeper and more strategic than ever before. Intercessors will be trained properly in schools of intercession, learning safety precautions given in His Word. They will even be knowledgeable in safely combating witchcraft as they are properly trained.

The Waters Have Been Stirred, Now It’s Time to Submerge

We are not waiting for the water to be stirred. It has already been stirred and it is time to submerge (John 5).

I declare this over all Godly warriors of intercession:

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, and His incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come” (Ephesians 1:18-21). (To Subscribe to the Elijah List subscribe here.)

Melissa Nordell
Strategic Prayer Command Ministry

California is Going to Rise up out of the Ashes

August 12, 2018March 23, 2019 by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in California Fires, fire, God's 4 R's, Revival, spiritual warfare, intercession, God's Army, warriors, intercessors, warfare prayer, transformational intercession, transformation, melissa nordell

th (3) California is Going to Rise up out of the Ashes by Melissa Nordell

“The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
They will rebuild the ancient ruins
and restore the places long devastated;
they will renew the ruined cities
that have been devastated for generations. (Is 61:1-4 NIV)

California has currently 18 major fires throughout the State, from north to south with major devastation and several deaths. But I hear God saying that California is going to rise out of the ashes in an amazing way, as only Jesus can do. As in this scripture, it is HE that does the restoration, it is HE that does the work. It is HE that bestows the crown of beauty in place of ashes. Even when it looks impossible.
Just as the large Redwoods in California’s National Parks have large seed pods that only can sprout when there is the high temperatures brought about by forest fires, God’s seeds of revival have been sprouted.
For the Lord says, “Don’t look at the natural, but look at the spiritual. Is anything too hard for Me? Yes, many in California have seemed to turn from Me; but there are so many of my righteous, faithful ones who have warred, prayed, interceded, worshipped Me in the Spirit of Holiness, cried out and honored Me. Do you think that I have not heard them? And then there is My Grace, love, and concern as well.”
It does not matter what it looks like in the media, in politics, in Hollywood, in the justice system; a State with such utter sexual sin, human trafficking, drugs, lawlessness and abortion – just watch what God can do.
As I was hearing this from the Lord, I had a vision of a horribly hot fire, billowing up with tornadic wind and heavy smoke. However, out of the very center of the fire rose a mighty, gold archangel; like the counterfeit phoenix myth that rose out of ashes. But this was God’s angel to bring Restoration, Revival, Reformation, and Restitution – God’s “4 R’s.”
As this golden angel arose, it was a symbol of God’s golden Shekinah Glory returning to California. Many revivals started here, and the State of California began with the Gold Rush of 1849. But God says that this will be His Gold, His Shekinah Glory returning in a new and mighty way, in The Golden State.
In Pastor Bill Johnson’s words on Sunday after the fire’s most wicked devastation, July 29, 2018, he said: “We have heard the voice of the Devourer; but you are about to see the Restorer.”

“And you will be called priests of the LORD,
you will be named ministers of our God.
You will feed on the wealth of nations,
and in their riches you will boast.
Instead of your shame
you will receive a double portion,
and instead of disgrace
you will rejoice in your inheritance.
And so you will inherit a double portion in your land,
and everlasting joy will be yours. (Isa 61: 6-7 NIV)

The Army is Being Called Back Up

October 31, 2017March 11, 2019 by strategicprayercommandmin, posted in spiritual warfare, intercession, God's Army, warriors, intercessors, warfare prayer, transformational intercession, transformation, melissa nordell

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The Army is Being Called Back Up by Melissa Nordell

(this was published by ElijahList.com on Nov. 6, 2017)

Just the other night I had a revelation of God’s Army of soldiers being called back into battle. The alarm has been sounded. The activation orders have been sent. Some of you have felt like you would never get back into the fight; at least not like you had it before. Some of you have lost so much in your wilderness season that you have felt like you could never get back up on your feet, much less fight. But the Lord says that was only for a time, a seemingly dormant season of testing and learning. Henceforth you are called back in the fight stronger and more energetic than ever before, unimaginably so.

Leaders, teachers, pastors and prophets that have given up are being revived by the Lord. It’s like a shot in the arm as young and old are in this together, bringing a new sound, a new word for the harvest to be brought forth. Those who have been wounded are back in the fight with new limbs, new strategies, healed with scar tissue that is stronger than the old. What you thought was dead has only been resting and growing, developing. Things will just happen with no effort on your part. Doors will open, and you will know that it is God because you don’t even have to ask for the supply or the help to do the task.

Evangelists who used to speak of God’s love in the streets and even in tent venues, are being called up. “Now is the time to do this again,” says the Lord, “but in a new and modern way. It will be sans religion as signs and wonders will now follow you with ease, for you have dropped the pretense and striving in order to do My will for all the right reasons. Now is the season that I must bring in the greater harvest,” cries the Lord.

Some of you are crisis intercessors who used to have words of knowledge, dreams and visions of disasters and terror attacks, wake-up calls to intercede in times gone by, but it seemed like these calls might never return. Some of you had been translated to intercede in different countries and cities but that was in times past as well. God is reactivating these gifts after your season of drought. You may not have even asked for this to happen again, but it has come. You are ready.

God is calling up some who are in kingdom mountain structures other than religion, such as business. Businesses that you thought were over (or not so successful) and inventions and ideas that you put on the shelf are being revived. These may have seemed dead but were only lying dormant beneath the surface. God is saying that it is time for these to break ground and be seen in the light. “The harvest needs to be funded in this late hour,” says the Lord. “I am now presenting to the world examples of My wisdom, maturity and integrity in business and other areas of the marketplace.”

You didn’t ask to be called back up into the war. It’s your Commander-in-Chief who has sent His orders and is calling you. He has need of you. He has need of your gifts and training at this critical time. But it is only the humble that can stand in this war – the last push.

Joseph was such a one, who must have thought his dreams were over while in captivity in Egypt. Realize that he must have wondered about that prophetic dream about his brothers bowing down to him. “Did I hear right?” “Did circumstances change God’s original plan for my life?” “Maybe I was too haughty for my own good and God will not be able to use me,” were all words he might have said to himself. However, that was only a time of dormancy to the seeing eye above the surface. During that time, Joseph was maturing in this humbling, learning experience. He must have felt weakened at first through the trial, but ended up strengthened and more wise and mature than ever before. God was with Joseph that whole time, from being sold into slavery to his time in Egypt. “”Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him…” (Acts 7:10).

Joseph must have been praying for his family while in Egypt even though he had no way of knowing what had happened to them. He had to have been thinking about them, wondering if his Jewish ancestors were able to survive and where they had gone, especially his adored father. Maybe Joseph had given up at times. Maybe he even got mad at God for his circumstances. These times of wilderness can be very humbling…if one does not give up entirely. After the time of famine reached a critical point, God sent Joseph’s brothers into Pharaoh’s land at the perfect time when Joseph was ready to receive them and act properly, humbly. He no longer had a need to brag about his dream of his brothers bowing to him.

What an impossibility for the brothers to have a personal audience with the second in command of Egypt, the one they had sold into slavery! But God…. He showed up and called Joseph suddenly back into the battle that he was bred and trained for.

“Joseph said to his brothers, ‘I am Joseph! Is my father still living?’ But his brothers were not able to answer him, because they were terrified at his presence. Then Joseph said to his brothers, ‘Come close to me.’ When they had done so, he said, ‘I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you’” (Gen 45: 3-5).

What a changed Joseph! What an amazing leader and hero to the Jewish people. What a wonderful maturing in Joseph since the day he was taken away from his family. He was not concerned with revenge or being right. He was just glad to see his family and wanted to know if they were being honest. God had also done a work in his brothers. Now Joseph was ready.

For some of you, it has been like Joseph: a time of being hidden, outside of the same surroundings and positions where you once were. You have learned well and are able to now do kingdom work for all the right reasons. For in the dying to self you have been able to heartily and willingly give up those dreams and plans to just “be” in Him, to just worship Him in wholeness and certainty, willing to serve but give up the plans you once held. Therefore, you can now be used and those promises can come to pass.

It takes a seed to die to bring life and harvest. That seed also must break out of the outer harder shell of flesh. God has been training and flesh-purifying those that can stand in the fight. “I am awakening you”, says the Lord, “In this time, I have need of every gift, every talent, every age, male and female. The doors and gates have been opened to those humble enough for the task.”

Melissa Nordell, Strategic Prayer Command Ministry