Intro by Steve Shultz:

Just this year, the Lord told me to say (and in my case it was with tears within my own household but it represented our whole region too): "Surely the Lord, God is in this place," which is what Jacob said when he named that place Bethel.

We each have our own regions which could be named Bethel. Of course, the Lord fills the whole earth, so in a sense, the whole earth is Beth-El. This means the House of God. There is a section below which talks about "vows." I am most into letting our "yes be yes." However, we have Scriptures such as this:

Acts 18:18, "Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken."

When you read about vows, think of your marriage and your ongoing commitment to our Lord. We have also included below a short word about 2008 being: "The Year of Acceleration." This acceleration has been prophesied by many and we all have been waiting for it!

Blessings,

Steve Shultz
ElijahList
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Garris Elkins: 2008 -- The Year of Acceleration

The year 2008 will be a "Year of Acceleration" for God's people. God has already empowered His Church with gifts and anointing, and now He is about to press the accelerator and move the Church at speeds of life and growth not seen in recent history. God is ready to move us at "warp-speed" past old barriers and old obstacles that have stood in our way.

In 2008, God will accelerate the Church financially, relationally, and into a new anointing in the marketplace. This acceleration is not to get the world ready for His coming--but it is to get the Church up to eternal speed as we engage our calling. God will move His people at such an accelerated speed that the enemy will only see us as a blur. We will not be a vulnerable, slow-moving target as in years past. Satan will try to attack, but he will only be shooting at a blur. God will deny the enemy a stationary bull's eye.

• God will accelerate your restoration financially. You will ask, "How did God get us to this place of wholeness?"

• God will accelerate your broken relationships. You will ask, "How did God restore our fellowship?"

• God will accelerate your ministry. You will ask, "How did God open this closed door?"

The Lord is asking that we press into Him and sit down in the midst of His intimacy. This acceleration is not about human effort--it is about trust. Like a child that sits in the passenger seat of the family car while the father drives home at night, there is a sense of safety and security.

Take a seat. Hold on. Trust. God has positioned you to move with Him. He is beginning to press "the accelerator."

Garris Elkins
Living Waters Church

Garris' Bio:
Garris Elkins serves as Lead Pastor of the Living Waters Church in Medford, Oregon. His ministry, both nationally and internationally, is to strengthen and encourage the Church through teaching and prophetic ministry. Prior to coming to Oregon, Garris was based in Berlin, Germany, where he helped nurture and develop Eastern European church leaders. Garris has been married to his wife Jan for 34 years and they have two grown children.


Sandie Freed: Positioned at the King's Gate in 2008

Last year the Lord spoke to me and said we were to believe for "Open Heavens in 2007 and be positioned to go through the gate in 2008." What I have witnessed in this calendar year of 2007 (the Gregorian calendar) is a "Bethel experience." By that I am referring to Jacob who, on his way to Haran, came to a certain place and had a dream where God opened the Heavens and revealed His covenant with mankind.

As believers, each of us has been brought to that same certain place. A certain place is defined Scripturally not only as a space, but also as a "standing place." In other words, God leads us into specific circumstances to empower us to "stand" upon a new revelation. When God opens the Heavens and reveals a particular part of His covenant or prophetic promise, we must also take a firm stand in that revelatory place! Many of us are experiencing times when it appears that we are not experiencing the fullness of God's covenant, but please hear me! Some of us are in the process of cycling out of old patterns of captivity.

As a prophetess of God, I am saying to you just as Jeremiah sent a message to those in Babylonian captivity, God says for you to BUILD! Yes, begin to build, begin to plant and make plans to live and reproduce! Though it looks one way in the natural, we can count on the faithfulness of God. He is opening the Heavens for us to prosper and we must begin to stand upon His Word. Our sure weapon in this season is the Sword of the Lord, His sure Word!

God is Turning Things Around on Your Behalf!

If you have been in a hard place, know today that the Lord is turning things around on your behalf. Regardless of what type of captivity you have experienced, God is opening the Heavens for you. We are living in the same prophetic times as when Jeremiah wrote to those in Babylonian captivity and encouraged them to keep on living for God. The prophet encouraged them with the word of the Lord and said for them to BUILD and PLANT! Yes! God instructed His children to refuse to focus on their circumstances, but to rather build, plant and reproduce right where they were until He released them.

Dear ones, God indeed wants to cycle you out of captivity and out of your wilderness. However, until the process of "cycling out" is completed, we must continue to believe God and to build upon His promises--right where we are. I am not saying to settle in; I am encouraging you to build for God while in the midst of trials and tribulations. The devil will always bring trouble--sometimes "double trouble"--but if we focus on the problem and not the Problem-Solver, then we become self-focused.

Self-focused saints murmur and complain and then become consumed with self-pity. Self-pity is dangerous because we open our mouths and speak things which should never be spoken. Remember, the power of life and death are in the tongue; so let's be careful with what we say as God is shifting us into seasons of blessing. To speak negatively could even affect our future, thus keeping us in the wilderness even longer!

Let's look at what Jeremiah said to those in Babylonian captivity:
"Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, unto all that are carried away captives, whom I have caused to be carried away from Jerusalem unto Babylon; Build ye houses, and dwell in them; and plant gardens, and eat the fruit of them; Take ye wives, and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons, and give your daughters to husbands, that they may bear sons and daughters; that ye may be increased there, and not diminished. And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace." Jeremiah 29:4-7

A Place of "Arising"

When referring to that certain place where God led Jacob, it is not only a place to take a firm stand, but it is also a place to arise. The Lord opened the Heavens to Jacob and showed him a ladder which reached from Heaven to earth with angels ascending and descending. The last time I studied this passage, I heard the Lord say that when He opens the Heavens at any time and releases divine revelation, angels ascend and descend upon that "ladder" of revelation. I know Jesus is the ladder which connected Heaven to earth, but in the natural, a ladder is used to reach a new level.

Revelation comes down from Heaven and touches earth. However, we can each "ascend" in faith and relationship with the Father to receive revelation to change our earth. If we want to begin to transform our world, we need to first touch Heaven and hear from God. Revelation empowers us with authority to arise from where we are and take a firm stand on God's covenant promises.

Making a Vow

Jacob realized God was in that certain time and place in his life and as a result he arose, built an altar unto God, and vowed to give God a tenth of all he had. Thus, the principle of tithing to the Lord was practiced. (My point is not sharing about the tithe in this article, my point here is--Jacob made "a vow"). A vow is important to God. I believe He leads us to certain places and into certain circumstances where we do make vows. Many of us have made a vow to God. Most likely when we were saved, we vowed to God that we would serve Him for all of our life. Dear ones, if we do not arise today and stand, the enemy will come to steal our vow!

Delilah seduced Samson and his vow to the Lord. I have written extensively about this very subject in my new book, Destroying the Threefold Demonic Cord: Discerning and Defeating Jezebel, Athaliah and Delilah (to be released in January 2008), which exposes how the stronghold of Delilah attempts to steal our vows to God. When we go through difficult times or seasons, during which God is releasing us from captivity, it is easy to be seduced by a false voice.

Satan will attempt to come to us with a false prophetic word and lead us in a wrong direction. He is an "evil messenger" with "evil messages" and if not on alert, we will believe the lies of the enemy and thus, be seduced away from our vows. Dear ones hear me today! The enemy has evil messages being sent to the gates of your lives.

Evil Messengers

Watchmen on the wall look for two things--invading troops and messengers (discerning who to let in the gate and who to keep out). We need to be on high alert levels concerning the evil messengers who attempt to invade the gates of our thoughts. If the enemy gets control of our minds and thoughts, he will seduce us and strip us of our determination to go through the gates in 2008.

Jezebel never saw Elijah face-to-face. She sent "evil messages" to him through her "messenger." Dear ones, the devil doesn't have to stare us in the eye--he just sends demons to us to speak into our thoughts and then he invades our imaginations! The result is a "vain imagination." It is the same thing that happened to Elijah when he received Jezebel's evil message; he "saw that." This means he imagined himself dead! Elijah saw in his mind and imagination, his defeat by Jezebel's hand and as a result, he took off running in the opposite direction of his destiny!

"And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and also how he had slain all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time. And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers." 1 Kings 19:1-4

How often have we entertained the same vain imaginations and thus detained our destiny? A vain imagination is described by Paul as an empty, foolish or fruitless thought. (See Romans 1:21). The voice of the enemy is always null and void of power unless we give it a place or a seated position of authority. Saints of the Most High--it is time to guard the gates of our thoughts and minds.

Establishing God's Government in 2008

According to the prophetic word given to Judah, the scepter would remain in his hand. This meant that Judah would shift and establish government and the tribe of Judah would remain in authority forever. Since Judah means "praise," then we can also say that "praise shifts and establishes government!" The gate in 2008 involves divine government in our individual lives first, and then we can shift the atmosphere around us.

If we need God's divine order established, then we also need His government in operation. Saints, we can establish God's government if we begin to be a people of praise. I know it sounds too simple, but it is true. The Lord has always planned that we rule and reign--it began in the Garden when He gave Adam dominion. However, it was also prophesied over Judah, one of the sons of Jacob (and his descendents), that he would rule over the land. This is one way we learn to arise and stand in our positions of authority--through praising His Name and worshiping Him.

David was from the tribe of Judah and he established the Tabernacle of David which had ongoing praise--24 hours a day. Jesus' genealogy is traced back to the same as David's, the tribe of Judah which holds the ruling scepter. Since we are engrafted into the lineage of Jesus, this must be our calling also.

It's All About the Kingdom

At the entrance of every kingdom, there is some type of gate. A gate provides an entrance, but also a method of keeping others out. It opens up to those who are to be included in the city and then closes to intruders and enemies.

One of the most famous stories of a gatekeeper was Mordecai who sat at the king's gate. This particular gate was the door to the court and government of the city. In all actuality, Mordecai guarded the courts of the king. What an awesome position for a believer to have and yet, an incredible responsibility. Imagine an intercessor stationed at the door of the court system and having to spiritually "watch" over that gate. It is not known if he was given this position of honor before or after Esther came to the throne, but we do know that his position at the king's gate empowered him to "checkmate" Haman, an Amalekite and enemy of the Jews.

While on watch at his gate, Mordecai discovered a plot to kill the king. After disclosing the plan of assassination to Queen Esther, he was later honored by the King Ahasuerus. A quick study of Mordecai at the "king's gate" will empower us during our transition into 2008.

"In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and Teresh, of those which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay hands on the king Ahasuerus. And the thing was known to Mordecai, who told it unto Esther the queen; and Esther certified the king thereof in Mordecai's name. And when inquisition was made of the matter, it was found out; therefore they were both hanged on a tree: and it was written in the book of the chronicles before the king." Esther 2:21-23

Gatekeepers and gate watchers, hear me! The enemy is seeking to seduce you away from your gate assignments! Mordecai had enemies who sought to kill him--just as we have devils today who seek to destroy us because we are watching over the "King's business!" One of Mordecai's enemies was named "Bigthan" which means "in the winepress" and the other's name was "Teresh" which means "strictness." When I think of my enemies (as in demonic spirits) today, I am reminded of how difficult it is to stand at the gate of "doing the King's business" when God has me in the winepress.

I also believe that there are demons that are on assignment to "press and pressure" us when God has us in His divine time of "the squeeze." The "divine squeeze" is when all that is not of God is squeezed out. If not careful, evil messengers come at that vulnerable time and lie to us; thus, an enemy waits to seduce us from our vows to God. Then, there are those demons of "strictness" that lie in wait to deliver evil messages! You have heard them also; I'm sure of it. They are messages of "legalism, performance and spiritual perfectionism." These evil messengers also come at a time when God is doing a deep work in our hearts.

Aren't you glad that God has determined to always deliver us from our enemies? Just as He destroyed Mordecai's evil messengers (actually had them hung on a tree), He will do the same for us since He is no respecter of persons.

At the King's Gate -- We Can Gain Influence

Today, in order to shift our own personal government, we will have to realize that we are in the winepress. God is extracting new wine and applying strict pressure. New boundaries in God are becoming rediscovered, and there is "strictness," a straight path that we are to follow. The enemy distorts God's expectations for us. By this, I'm referring to Jesus' example of encouraging us to go through the straight gate.

"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat." Matthew 7:13

So, spiritually there is a straight path that can be referred to as a "strict" lifestyle, yet still not "legalism." Relationship with God is what we are to seek--not religion. Religion binds us with rules and laws. When we are seeking religion, we obey laws rather than obeying instruction based on relationship.

What is happening within our court systems is on our watch. We must become a disciplined army, strictly becoming obedient--yet not legalistic. Satan attempts to twist the truth concerning the winepress. A winepress is used during harvest. It is a time of rejoicing when wine and harvest have come. Satan will distort all that is good and make it appear hard and ugly.

Now back to our story. Mordecai called attention to these two chamberlains who sought to murder the king and he sounded the alarm. As a prophetic people, we must sound the alarm and alert others to satan's position at the king's gate. Satan's plan is to assassinate and dilute the Truth of God and cause us to fear freedom in Christ. Many would rather be bound up with legalism than be free in Christ because it appears easier to follow "rules and strict guidelines." Mordecai was later rewarded for protecting the king. If we also remain at our gates, our assigned positions, we will be rewarded in God's timing.

Positioning for Shifting Government

Unless we are positioned properly, we will not experience the shifting which needs to occur in our lives. If we are at the right place at the right time, then certain exposure can occur to "uncover" the plans of the enemy so that we can overpower him in the Spirit.

After Mordecai exposed his enemies at the king's gate, he later discovered another plot of destruction. This time it was a plot hatched by the evil workings of one named Haman. Haman had manipulated the king into destroying the Jews and was placed in authority over Mordecai. Haman would parade himself through the streets of the city and expected others to bow in respect. Mordecai had determined to only bow to God. This act was considered humiliating by Haman, so he vindictively plotted to destroy not only Mordecai, but all of the Jews.

When Mordecai found out about the plan, he dressed himself in sackcloth and ashes and went throughout the city. He went as far as the king's gate while still dressed in sackcloth and ashes. History records the fact that it was illegal to be at the king's gate without having on the proper garments. In other words, Mordecai committed a crime, so to speak, for approaching that gate without the proper uniform. However, still knowing it was illegal to be at the king's gate dressed in this manner, Mordecai seemed to make a beeline toward the king's gate to make a statement. Mordecai, even before Esther's act of self-sacrifice, first laid down his life to shift the government and nullify the death assignment.

When Esther heard Mordecai was dressed this way, she sent a change of clothes. Esther knew it could mean certain death if Mordecai was found to have assumed this position and was not dressed properly. Mordecai refused to change clothing and instead, sent word to the queen concerning the evil plans of Haman to destroy all of the Jews. His refusal to take off his sackcloth was a radical statement which got Esther's immediate attention.

Mordecai reminded Esther of her own blood heritage and reminded her that it was possible that God brought her to the kingdom "for such a time as this" to shift government and issue new decrees. As a result of Mordecai's position at the king's gate, his refusal to change garments and his intercession there, Esther chose a fast and became determined to approach the king on behalf of all of the Jews.

Laying Down Our Lives at the Gate in 2008

Wow! Talk about shifting government at the gates! We give a lot of credit to Esther who laid down her life to approach the king. But what about Mordecai? He also laid down his life at the gate. When Haman would ride by on his horse, Mordecai was expected to "bow down" to him, but Mordecai refused, thus placing his life on the line. We also must refuse to bow to any evil plan of the enemy and if necessary, position ourselves at the gates in sackcloth and ashes, remain at our assigned gates and continue to watch.

The Year of "All Things" in 2008

As we go through the new gates in 2008, let's remember that "all things are possible" to those who believe in His Word. I heard the Lord say to me that 2008 was a year of "all things." I encourage us to do a study on those words and war over our promises. I will list a few for us to "stand on" and "arise" in spiritual fortitude as He leads us to a certain place and a certain gate. Do not listen to the evil messengers who would attempt to seduce you from achieving your destiny.

I have listed a few promises concerning "all things." Stand on these prophetic promises and go through your gate in 2008!

1. All things are possible in 2008! "But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

2. All things will be restored! "And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things." Matthew 17:11

3. All prayers are answered. "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." Matthew 21:22

4. We are to observe all things Jesus has taught us! "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in Heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." Matthew 28:18-2

5. Do not have fear at your gate! You are empowered to "bear, believe, hope and endure" at the gate in 2008! "Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things." 1 Corinthians 13:6-7

6. The number "8" means "new beginnings." 2008 is the year that all things become new! "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17

7. The enemy is under your feet at your gate of enlargement. Go through the gate in 2008! "And hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the Head over all things to the Church." Ephesians 1:22

8. The Spirit of God will reveal "the deep things" to you in 2008. "But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God." 1 Corinthians 2:10

Let's determine to not simply go through the gate in 2008, but also to be properly positioned in 2008. Go for it! All things are possible!

Sandie Freed
Zion Ministries