Frankly Speaking

Ever heard of a red herring? Webster's defines the term as something unimportant that is used to stop people from noticing or thinking about something important. This practice has been around since the beginning of time and is widely used by governments, politicians, corporations, or anyone seeking to distract. Our enemy, the devil, likes to get us distracted. When we are distracted we have a hard time hearing what God is saying to us. Many in the church buy into his game and tend to get caught up in petty arguments or doctrinal disputes and miss the important battles under our noses that need our attention. These distractions don't necessarily have to be bad things either. Oswald Chambers once said that the good is always the biggest enemy of the best. Our country is in dire straits and, whether she knows it or not, desperately needs the church to get focused and do what it was designed by Christ to do- take back what the enemy has stolen. God chose us for a time such as this and we need to stay focused and "in the game." Don't waste your time and energy on unproductive works that don't produce life, but instead spend time alone with your heavenly Father and listen for His marching orders. He will certainly speak if you are listening.
 
Overcome every form of evil as a victorious soldier of Jesus the Anointed One. For every soldier called to active duty must divorce himself from the distractions of this world so that he may fully satisfy the one who chose him. 2Timothy 2:4 TPT
 
Have them stop devoting their attention to myths and never-ending genealogies; these divert people to speculating instead of doing God's work, which requires trust. 1Timothy 1:4 CJB
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                                                                                      Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

Since 1914, on the second Sunday in May, we Americans honor our Mothers. Motherhood is undoubtably the highest calling on a woman's life. God chose the woman to bring all mankind, with the exception of Adam, into this world. He supplied her with the gifts and skills to nurture, protect, and love us all, including His only Son- Jesus our Messiah. What man could top that? In poet Wilhelm Busch’s words: “To become a mother is not so difficult; on the other hand, being a mother is very much so!"  Yes a man, who obviously never endured the pains of childbirth, wrote this but he nails the point- truly a mother's job is never done. In His wisdom God specially equipped her for this task; giving her extra body parts; such as eyes in the back of her head to "see all and know all" and additional arms to hold a child, cook, and answer the phone at the same time. He gave her super-powers like ultrasonic hearing and the ability to see around corners, through walls and even into the future! He gave her the ability to multi-task and carry on numerous conversations at one time. He put within her a keen sense of discernment and the ability to know and feel what her children are going through. But most importantly He gave her the gift of love. A mother's love is unconditional. Your mother will love you even when you are hard to love. She will love you when you think no one else does and will continue to love you even when others have moved on. Because of her love for you, she will defend you to the death, even when you don't deserve it. There are times when her love will be tough love, but know it is for your own good. Being a mother is a choice - God's choice. He chooses who and when - who will birth and nurture His children and the season for it to happen. So, take time today and thank God for your mother. He hand picked her for you!
"My mother... she is beautiful, softened at the edges and tempered with a spine of steel. I want to grow old and be like her." Jodi Picoult
                                                                              Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." Romans 12:2

A few weeks ago I began a four-part series on the human mindset and how it controls every part of our lives. In his book, A Time To Advance, Robert Heidler notes that the Bible divides the human race into three different mindsets; Barbarian, Greek, and Hebrew. Last week we looked at the barbarian mindset whose basic operating principle is fear. This week I will be teaching on the Greek mindset. The operating principle of a Greek mindset is pride that filters through a humanistic intellect. Humanism by definition is the theory and practice that emphasizes reason, scientific inquiry, and human fulfillment in the natural world. Humanism denies the existence of any power or moral value superior to that of humanity. This way of thinking leaves no room for the supernatural moves of God. Someone with this type of mindset will base their belief system on human reason and not faith - every occurrence must be explained or reasoned. It is not hard to fall into his trap since this Greek mindset is so firmly embedded in our western society. Sadly much of the church today, especially in America, has succumbed to the Greek mindset as well. Since spiritual gifts such as miracles, healings, and prophesies defy human reason, they are not accepted. If you are going to walk with God you are going to have to accept some things that you don't understand. God loves to confound the mind to test the heart. I will continue next week on the Hebrew mindset. So tune in.
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Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 1Co 1:20-24
                                                                        
​                                                                                                   Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

Are you going though a season of testing right now? Are you having your share of difficult days? Does it seem like you're never going to get a break? Well you're not alone, in fact you are in pretty good company. The apostle Paul had his share of bad days as well; "Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea." That's quite a resume I'd say, but the list goes on, "I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked." 2Co 11:25-27 Paul wasn't complaining, he was exhorting us. Through all of these trials Paul never lost sight of the big picture. He realized that his suffering was not for naught because of the high calling that was on his life. He knew he was never alone and that in the end God's purpose would be revealed and the glory would be all His. We have the same assurance that Paul did. Trials not only strengthen us, they give opportunity for God to be shown strong. So, instead of complaining when things get tough, fix your eyes on Jesus, never forgetting that you were called by Him and those that He calls He strengthens. Your perseverance and testimony will be an encouragement for others who are watching. "Your mess will become your message."- Max Lucado
We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies. 2Co 4:8-10                
                                                                                      Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
"Split the sky with Your glory-Bring to life an awakening-Burn away everything that's not for You-Hear our voices crying out-We won't stop 'til heaven's come down-We won't stop 'til every knee bows to You-And all our hearts will sing is....Make a way for the King, the King is coming." The King is Coming The Newsboys
 
Two thousand years ago the news that Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem swept through the city. Throngs of people raced to the outskirts of town, to a place called Bethphage, just to get a glimpse of the Messiah. The crowds ran ahead of Jesus and spread their garments, along with palm branches that they had cut, on the road before Him. Still others waved the branches while they shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Hosanna in the highest heaven!" (Matt 21:9) Today is Palm Sunday - the day we celebrate this triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This event was prophesied by the prophet Zechariah over 500 years earlier: "Rejoice, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey—riding on a donkey’s colt." (Zec 9:9) The event is recorded in all four gospels. Many who read these accounts will come to the conclusion that although His entry into Jerusalem was indeed triumphant, the events that unfolded the following week were tragic. Yes, this just and humble Man who rode into town on a donkey would be tortured and executed within a week for crimes He didn't commit, but we believers understand that this Man Jesus gave His life willingly- no one took it. He was Triumphant! He offered His perfect life for our sinful one. "For, There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time." (1Timothy 2:5,6). Celebrate His gift of salvation and pass along the good news. There is a lost world that needs to hear.
 
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1Cor 1:18
                                                                         Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." Romans 12:2
 
In his book, A Time To Advance, Robert Heidler notes that the Bible divides the human race into three different mindsets; Barbarian, Greek, and Hebrew. The basic operating principle of the Barbarian mindset is fear. A Barbarian seeks to control another by fear and intimidation. The Barbarian mindset is Satan's chief tool of operation. He is an oppressor who comes "but to steal, kill, and destroy" and he holds most of mankind, including many Christians, in such fear that they are afraid to resist him. That answers why so many Christians are afraid to enter into intercession and spiritual warfare. They are terrified of the consequences because they are totally convinced that terrible things will happen to them if they resist the devil. If your life is dominated by fear, then you are being held captive by a barbarian warlord named Satan. It is impossible to walk both in fear and faith at the same time because they  are polar opposites. Know that there is hope - you don't have to stay this way. You can repent and be set free from this debilitating mindset. I will continue next week on the Greek mindset. So tune in.
For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father."  Romans 8:14,15
                                                                                            Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
As most of you know, the Dodson family is in the process of moving into a new house. Moving is a mixture of excitement and dread. We are excited about being in a new place with endless possibilities, but at the same we time dread all the work of getting there. Although almost everything has been moved into the new home, it is stashed and piled up everywhere. Getting it all organized and placed where it needs to be will require hours and hours of thought and tireless work. At the same time there are dozens of projects that need to be done to the house in order for it to accommodate our belongings and suit our needs. It can all get a little overwhelming at times, but the vision we have for the 'finished project' keeps us going. This principal is true in every aspect of our lives- our marriage, our children, our careers, and most importantly our spiritual lives. In order to not become overwhelmed or grow weary, we must have a vision for what we want each to look like some day and steadily work towards that goal. One of the things that God has been reminding me lately is to "just do the next thing." Remember, a house is not built in a day, but one brick at a time. In this 'instant potato' world that we live in it is easy to forget that. So, the next time you begin to feel overwhelmed, stop and pray. Ask your Heavenly Father to show you the next thing to do. He is faithful to answer.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Php 3:14
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Gal 6:9
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Php 4:6,7
                                                                                         Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
One day a father brought his son to Jesus. The young man was mute and, being possessed by an evil spirit, was often thrown into demonic convulsions. The father said to Jesus, "If you can do anything, have pity on us and help us!" Jesus replied with a rebuke, "What do you mean, 'if you can?' Anything is possible if a person believes!" Instantly the father of the child exclaimed, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!" Many times we are guilty of the same thing - not truly believing when we pray. We pray half-heartily, not really expecting God to do whatever it is that we are praying for. Know that your Heavenly Father loves you and nothing brings Him more pleasure than to do the 'impossible' for you. When you seek Him with a whole heart you will discover that He is able and willing to do whatever you ask in His name. Just believe.
 
"And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." Mark 16:17,18 NKJV

​                                                                                    Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

"For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer..." 1 Peter 3:12
 
The Lenten Season starts this coming Wednesday, March 6th. Lent is a 40 day period of fasting and prayer leading up to Resurrection Sunday. Lent is often misunderstood and many people refuse to accept the practice because they believe it is a tradition only for the liturgical churches. In reality, Lent is nothing more than a time of corporate prayer and fasting which originated in the very earliest days of the Church. Each year it was set aside as a preparatory time before Christ's resurrection was celebrated; a season when the faithful rededicated themselves and the new converts were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism. Does that sound unbiblical? In practice, Lent should be a season of fasting, soul-searching, repentance, and prayer. It is a season to reflect and take stock of our spiritual walk. So, what is different between lent and what we call a corporate fast? Does it really matter what we call it? Both implore us to do the same thing. This year, more than ever, there is much to pray and fast for. Undoubtably there are battles to be fought in the courtrooms and congresses across this nation, but the major battles will be fought in the prayer closets of the faithful. Please join with us in this season of drawing near to God and fast as the Lord leads you. Heaven will take notice.

"So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer." Ezra 8:23
​                                                                                     Pastor Frank Dodson
 

​Frankly Speaking
 
"Donde vive usted?" This is one of the first phrases that I learned in Mr. Garza's 6th grade Spanish class over 40 years ago. Translated to English it simply asks the question "Where do you live?" Easy enough for most of us as we would answer with our street address or city of residence. But what if the question was directed at a specific time- past, present, or future? Do you "vive" in the past - dwelling on past triumphs or failures? Do you have regrets? Do you ever wish you could go back and fix things by making different choices? What about the future? Are you fearful of what the future might bring? Do you worry about what kind of world your children will inherit? These are valid questions because most of us would have to answer yes to all of them. I believe that we all realize and regret the mistakes that we have made in the past and undoubtably must harbor some apprehension for the future, but do these thoughts control how we live out our lives in the present? Someone once said that it was okay to look back into the past, just don't live there. Nothing could be more true. Learning from the past is good, but trying to relive it over and over is not. Likewise, concern for the future is good but obsessive worry is not. We need to learn to live in the present. Living anywhere else but the present shows a lack of faith in God and His ability to redeem us or care for us. The present is where God works 'in us' and 'through us'. Let's train ourselves to live in the "now" and enjoy all that God has for us there. It truly is the best place to live.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6,7
                                                                                  Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
"Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times." Mark 4:3-8
 
In this parable Jesus is drawing an analogy between farming (sowing and cultivating the land) and sharing the gospel (sowing and cultivating hearts). In either case, when we sow (or plant) we don't always get the same results. People differ as much as soils. Some are hard and allow satan to come and steal the Word soon after they hear it. Others might receive it with joy initially, but because they don't have deep spiritual roots they fall away as soon as problems arise or they are mocked for believing. Still others allow the worries of life or the pursuit of wealth or pleasure to choke out the Word so that no fruit can be produced. But then there is the good soil. Those are the people who receive God's Word with a right heart that not only hears, but fully embraces the message of heaven's kingdom realm. These people are the ones who produce a bountiful harvest. Of the four kinds of soil represented here, only the fourth type produces the bountiful harvest that God desires. What kind of dirt are you?  Are you hard, shallow, thorn-infested, or fertile? Regardless of your answer, there is hope. If you believe you are one of the first three then it is time to ask God to cultivate your heart. Allow Him to plow and break-up that crusty outer layer caused by years of being trampled on. Allow Him to remove the rocks of disbelief. Allow Him to clear out the thorns of distraction. Then allow Him to fertilize your soul with His Word and watch what happens.
                                                                                       ​Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. Psm 139:13-16 NLT
 
Much has been said in the past few weeks about the late-term abortion bill that passed with jubilation in the New York Assembly that would allow the brutal murder of a defenseless living, breathing human being. But nothing speaks louder than the cold, stoic response from the Democrat representatives during the State of the Union when President Trump denounced the bill. As you all know, I try extremely hard to not be political in this column, but I felt this issue needed to be addressed. "If I warn the wicked, saying, ‘You are under the penalty of death,’ but you fail to deliver the warning, they will die in their sins. And I will hold you responsible for their deaths." Eze 3:18 You might say, "There is nothing I can do, this is a New York issue." But be advised, there are similar bills being pushed through the legislative bodies in all fifty states including our own state of Texas. This evil will not go away unless we wake up as a body of  believers and realize that what we face is a spiritual battle. Satan is determined to annihilate the coming generation in order to prevent them from stepping into their destiny and he is using human 'pawns' to do his bidding. Pray for your representatives, that the hoodwink would be lifted and that they would see the evil of abortion and infanticide and repent. Pray that the Lord give them courage to stand up against party politics and vote for life. Pray protection over those who do. Church, this is our 'kyros' moment - we were born for a time such as this. If we don't rise up who will?
                                                                                    Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking

Today is Super Bowl Sunday. Last year few would have predicted that these two teams would be playing for the NFL championship. The New England Patriots are a seasoned team making their eleventh trip to the big game, having won five of them. The LA Rams will be going to the Super Bowl for only the third time, having won it all once in 1999. Although the Rams were tied for the best record in the NFL at 13-3, they are still considered 2 1/2  point underdog. They have a young quarterback and a young head coach - neither with much experience, much less a Super Bowl appearance. New England on the other hand is loaded at both positions. Brady and Belichick have both been a part of all 10 previous trips to the championship game. So, based on pedigree and record, New England should be stocking their locker room with cases of celebratory champagne. But, the predictable doesn't always come to be. Upsets occur quite often in sports and that's why we play the game. Upsets are also common in the Kingdom of God as well. Many times we feel overwhelmed and out-numbered. We find ourselves looking at the obstacles in our lives and feel like giving up. It is in those times that we must look to the One who gives us strength, to the One who is the Game-changer. God loves the underdog and is always ready to come when we call. All through history we see examples of the people of God overcoming against all odds. What makes you think He wouldn't do the same for you? If you find yourself feeling down and loosing hope, look to the One who has a perfect record. Your Heavenly Father cares about you and listens when you call on Him. He is able and willing to lift you up and bring you through any obstacle that is before you. So, don't lose hope, you will win if you put your faith in the Game-changer.

But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isa 40:31

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Gal 6:9
                                                                                               ​Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

"All I know is I'm not home yet
This is not where I belong
Take this world and give me Jesus
This is not where I belong." Where I Belong-Building 429
 
I have always loved to sing this song, but the words just don't ring true to me anymore. I understand what the artist is trying to say - that he feels out of place in this world and is eagerly awaiting to live in his eternal home in heaven. Aren't we all? But I believe that we need to realize that this is our home for now and we do belong here because God brought us into this world and has "determined our pre-appointed times and the boundaries of our dwellings" Acts 17:26. We have a purpose here. Jesus instructed us to "love our neighbors as ourselves" and "go and make disciples." When we purchased the home  that we currently live in we knew it wasn’t the house we would grow old in yet we have cared for it and have taken possession of our neighborhood by loving our neighbors and discipling them. God also gave us dominion (Genesis 1:26) and authority (Luke 10:19) over this place we are to call home. We walk our neighborhood regularly, praying and interceding for those around us. This world needs us, it needs us to take ownership and exercise our God given authority over the demonic principalities that have taken it hostage. We need to love our home enough to fight for it. Yes, He is preparing a place for us when we die, but this is our home now. We need to quit focusing on Jesus' return, treat this world as our own, and go about the Father's business, here and now.
 
"It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping". Mark 13:34-36
                                                                                        ​Pastor Frank Dodson
 

​Frankly Speaking
 
Tomorrow is Martin Luther King Jr Day, a national holiday that recognizes, and honors, the life of one of the most influential men of the 20th century. Dr. King was a non-violent activist who championed the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950's and 60's. His belief that all men are created equal and are precious in God's sight was biblically based. His teachings of "loving thy neighbor" lined up with the teachings of Jesus Christ who challenged His followers to love one another with a radical type of love known as agape love. During a sermon at Dexter Ave. Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama in 1957, Dr. King said this about love, "Agape is more than eros; agape is more than philia; agape is something of the understanding, creative, redemptive goodwill for all men. It is a love that seeks nothing in return. It is an overflowing love; it’s what theologians would call the love of God working in the lives of men. And when you rise to love on this level, you begin to love men, not because they are likable, but because God loves them. You look at every man, and you love him because you know God loves him. And he might be the worst person you’ve ever seen." His words, like those of Jesus, were met with resistance and would eventually cost him his life. Although Dr. King is remembered for leading the Civil Rights Movement over a half-century ago, his words still challenge us today. Present day activists and so-called 'social justice warriors' could certainly learn a thing or two by studying Dr. King's life and taking his words to heart.
Your calling is to fulfill the royal law of love as given to us in this Scripture: "You must love and value your neighbor as you love and value yourself!" For keeping this law is the noble way to live. But when you show prejudice you commit sin and you violate this royal law of love! James 2: 8,9
                                                                                           Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:10,11

Last week I was listening to a message from Dutch Sheets, a trusted prophet, and he made this statement, "God declares the end from the beginning." As I pondered those words the thought came to me that not only is God omniscient, having knowledge of all things past, present, and future, but He also controls all things as well. He knows how everything is going to play out because He orchestrated how they would play out. When God makes a decree, there is no question or doubt whether it will come to pass. God's voice is creative and it will set things in motion regardless of the circumstances or reality. When the angel Gabriel spoke to the young virgin Mary and said,"You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus," Holy Spirit went to work to make it happen-and it did. God doesn't just speak words from a cloud to put things in motion, He uses human beings to speak them as well. In this fullness of time we live in, we are the prophetic voice God uses to speak His words. As soon as we speak, Holy Spirit goes into action. Your voice carries power because God has given you authority. This is something we really need to get. We are to be the messenger who carries the Word of God to the world. It is our responsibility to speak forth the prophetic Word in order for our families, our city, and our country to prosper.

Then the LORD reached out and touched my mouth and said, “Look, I have put my words in your mouth! Today I appoint you to stand up against nations and kingdoms. Some you must uproot and tear down, destroy and overthrow. Others you must build up and plant.” Jeremiah 1:9,10
​                                                                               Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
"The future's so bright, I gotta wear shades." Timbuk3
 
A blank slate. That was what my computer screen was a few moments ago and that is what 2019 is. For better or worse, things probably didn't turn out like you planned them last year and chances are they won't in 2019 either. "A man may have many plans in his heart. But the LORD's purpose wins out in the end." Prov 19:21. Although some might claim to know, no one really has a clue what will transpire in this new year ahead of us. This uncertainty about the future can lead to anxiety and fear for many people. Peace and contentment only comes when we cease worrying and choose to trust the One who actually controls the future. He has great plans for those who trust in Him. "I know the plans I have for you," announces the LORD. "I want you to enjoy success. I do not plan to harm you. I will give you hope for the years to come." Jer 29:11. Your future may not look too bright to you at all times, but your Heavenly Father knows what is best for you. His ways will test you, stretch you and take you places you have never been before. Your greatest responsibility this year will be to trust Him and His ways. Learning to do that will not be easy, but it will be rewarding. Yes, the future is bright for those who trust in the Lord.
 
"But those who trust in the LORD will receive new strength. They will fly as high as eagles. They will run and not get tired. They will walk and not grow weak." Isa 40:31 NIrV
                                                                            Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
At midnight tomorrow, the year 2018 will be over and added to the annals of history. I'm not sure what kind of year you had, but Psalms 118:24 says, "This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it." Since a year is made up of 365 of these "days that the Lord has made," I believe that we should rejoice in each year as well. No matter what you have gone through this year, know that it was not in vain. God has a purpose in all things; not only has He been preparing you for this coming year, He has been equipping you to do what He has for you to do. The year 2019, like any new year, brings with it much uncertainty, but knowing that God is with us and has a plan for us will help us overcome any anxiety or fear. Get ready, 2019 will be a year of great opportunity for the church. Three months ago we entered into the Hebrew year 5779 which was prophesied to be 'the year to harvest the King's vineyard.' What does that mean for the church? It means that the harvest of souls worldwide will dramatically increase. It will be a year when believers will be called to intense sessions of intercession, watching and fasting. The supernatural power of God will escalate through His people as their kingdom gifts are activated. We will see witchcraft and the schemes of satan exposed as the Ekklesia rises up in the power of God and advances the kingdom. So, enter 2019 with excitement and expectation, believing that the Lord intends to use you mightily in His kingdom. Happy New Year!
 
"I will stand at my watch post; I will station myself on the rampart. I will look to see what [God] will say through me and what I will answer when I am reproved. Then Adonai answered me; he said, "Write down the vision clearly on tablets, so that even a runner can read it. For the vision is meant for its appointed time; it speaks of the end, and it does not lie. It may take a while, but wait for it; it will surely come, it will not delay." Hab 2:1-3 CJB
​                                                                            Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking

One night many years ago, in a field near the town of Bethlehem, there were shepherds watching over their flocks. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared in radiant splendor before them, lighting up the field with the blazing glory of God. The shepherds were terrified. But the angel reassured them, "Don't be afraid. For I have come to bring you good news, the most joyful news the world has ever heard. And it is for everyone everywhere! For today in Bethlehem a rescuer was born for you. He is the Lord Yahweh, the Messiah. You will recognize him by this miracle sign: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a feeding trough!" Then all at once, a vast number of glorious angels appeared, the very armies of heaven! And they all praised God, singing: "Glory to God in the highest realms of heaven! For there is peace and a good hope given to the sons of men." Luke 2:8-14 TPT

What joyful news it was! The Messiah, God's own Son, leaving the splendor of heaven and coming to Earth as a man. His mission would be to rescue all mankind from enslavement to sin and sin's penalty of death.

"When we were juveniles we were enslaved under the hostile spirits of the world. But when that era came to an end and the time of fulfillment had come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the written law. Yet all of this was so that He would redeem and set free all those held hostage to the written law so that we would receive our freedom and a full legal adoption as His children." Galatians 4:4,5

Be full of joy this Christmas season as you are reminded that your Heavenly Father loved you so much that He gave His only Son so that you could become a son and receive all the benefits of sonship. Merry Christmas to you all.
​                                                                             Pastor Frank Dodson
 

If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since He did not spare even His own Son but gave Him up for us all, won’t He also give us everything else? Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for His own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with Himself. Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and He is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us. Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean He no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”) No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:31-39 NLT

Let these word sink in. Memorize them and recite them to yourself every time you feel overcome by doubt, fear or worry. They will liberate you.
​                                                                                  Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

I can remember my Mom taking me shopping for school clothes when I was a kid. She never bought me clothes that fit, they were always too big. When I complained that the pants were too long or too loose in the waist, she would always say, "It will be just fine, you'll grow into them." The same was always true with shoes. She would feel for my toes in the end and if they weren't anywhere to be found she would buy me the shoes. Of course there was a reason for her madness- she knew that if she bought them to fit right she would be back in the store in no time, spending more money, buying me more when I outgrew them. The same is true in the Kingdom of God. We are all growing spiritually so when God gives us a vision for our future or a prophetic word is spoken over us it always seems 'too big'. Prophetic words are given to help us grow spiritually; to strengthen us, encourage us, and to comfort us. (1Co 14:3) Visions are a glimpse into what the future holds for us if we don't give up. Most times, prophetic words and visions seem far-fetched or unattainable. That's because your Heavenly Father doesn't look at you the same way you look at yourself. We tend to look in the mirror and think that the word or vision, much like those clothes our mom bought for us, doesn't fit. But God (like our mother years ago) knows that we will grow into it. The next time you receive a vision or a prophetic word is spoken over you don't doubt, but receive it in faith, knowing that your Father in Heaven sees what you cannot see.
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That will continue until we all become one in the faith and in the knowledge of God's Son. Then we will be grown up in the faith. We will receive everything that Christ has for us. Eph 4:13 NIrV

                                                                          Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
Do you believe in miracles? It has been said that a miracle is not the suspension of a natural law, but the operation of a higher law. One such miracle is celebrated every year by Jews around the world. Today at sunset the Jewish feast of Hanukkah begins. The eight-day celebration of Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the cleansing and re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem following the unlikely Jewish victory over the powerful Syrian-Greeks of the Seleucid Empire in 165bc. The Syrians had purposely defiled the Temple by offering pig sacrifices to their god Zeus on it's altar. The victorious Jews, led by Judah "The Hammer" Maccabee cleansed the Temple and rebuilt the altar. The High Priest, who was anxious to relight the sacred Menorah which was to burn throughout the night, every night, could only find one small sealed jar of purified oil for the lamp. That was only enough for one night. The Jews, stepping out in faith, lifted up a prayer to God and lit the Menorah anyway. That's when the miracle occurred - the oil never ran out! The oil from the tiny jar lasted for eight days which was time enough to consecrate more oil. Jews celebrate this miracle every year by lighting the a special Menorah called the Hanukkiah and they give thanks to God for the miracle. Here's the good news - God is still in the miracle business! Are you needing a miracle in your life? Instead of waiting and doing nothing, maybe it is time to step out in faith and watch God move. Know that it brings your Father great pleasure to perform the impossible and pour out blessings on His children. Expect miracles knowing that His oil never runs out!
For thus says the LORD God of Israel: 'The bin of flour shall not be used up, nor shall the jar of oil run dry, until the day the LORD sends rain on the earth.' 1Kings 17:14  
                                                                                  Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

​Civilized. I've been pondering that word lately. Most people would say that we live in a civilized society today, but do we really? To answer intelligently we must fully comprehend the full   meaning of the word. Webster's defines civilized as a society that is marked by well-organized laws and rules about how people behave with each other. We may score fairly high on that standard, but if we read on we are informed that it also means to be polite, reasonable, and respectful to one another. I think we could all agree that we fail miserably at those traits. There is definitely a lack of decorum and civility in the world today - even among those who identify as Christians. Why is that? I believe it is because most people have either forgot or never been taught how we should behave towards another. As Christians we have no excuse - we have been taught and should know how to treat one another. Jesus gave us, His followers, this commandment, "Love each other just as much as I have loved you. For when you demonstrate the same love I have for you by loving one another, everyone will know that you’re my true followers.” John 13:34,35 TPT  Could it be any clearer? I believe that when we begin to treat one another with respect the world will take notice. Christians must lead by example, not just in words. The Apostle Paul pleads this case, "Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God." Eph 4:1 As Christians we are called by God to a higher standard of conduct. Why? Because the world is watching and observing us and they recognize hypocrisy when they see it. So, make it a priority to be polite and to treat everyone with respect. In this way you will not only be setting an example for them to follow, but you will be opening the door to share the love of Christ with them.
                                                                                     ​Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking

Thanksgiving is next Thursday. It is a day that Americans get together with family to cook, to eat, to relax, and to watch some football. Many view this day as nothing more than a secular holiday, but a short history lesson proves that it is rooted in faith. It is widely accepted that the present day Thanksgiving holiday we celebrate began at a Plymouth settlement. There in 1621 the Pilgrim settlers gathered to give thanks to God for the harvest. William Bradford, who served thirty years as Governor of Plymouth Colony, wrote this of the first Thanksgiving celebration, "Thus they found the Lord to be with them in all their ways, and to bless their outgoing and incoming, for which let His Holy Name have the praise forever, to all posterity." After the colonies became a country, President George Washington proclaimed the first nationwide thanksgiving celebration in America marking November 26, 1789, "as a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God." We sometimes forget the great favor that God has bestowed upon this nation and take for granted His provision and the prosperity that we enjoy as a result of that divine favor. This Thanksgiving, no matter what you have planned, make time to reflect on the goodness of your Heavenly Father and to give Him the gratitude He deserves. Honestly, we shouldn't wait for Thanksgiving to give thanks. We should do it every day.
"Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name." Psalm 100:3,4
​                                                                                                 Pastor Frank Dodson