Pioneering the Ancient Paths

In a recent time of prayer, I recieved a vision from God. I saw a wagon train of believers moving slowly up the side of a mountain. There was a path before them that looked impassable. Some turned around and worked their way back down the mountain - they didn't even try to get through. Others examined the obstacles and overgrowth blocking the path and determined it would be too hard to get through. It seemed impossible. They sat in their wagons and planned their retreat with sad hearts. It was obvious that the trail had not been used for many years, and the thought of reopening it was overwhelming to most.

Then I heard a Voice saying, "Your generation has been called and prepared for this path. You are pioneering the ancient paths long neglected and abandoned by your fathers. It is the path of the great Healing Movement, Faith Movement, and powerful Tent Revivals of former years, when signs and wonders shook the nations with evidence of My power. Over time, the path was abandoned and overgrown with weeds. Obstacles fell into the path and settled into place over the years. To look at the path you would think it impassable. BUT...there is a way through. It is time for you to break out! I have prepared a way. If you will stay close to My Spirit, I will guide you through. There has always been a way through for those willing to follow."

This Word from God became a personal challenge to me. How bad did I want what was on the other side of the mountain? Was I willing to press through? Then I realized that once I made it through, the path would be open for the generations coming directly behind me! In my heart, I pictured myself grabbing hold of His hand and following Him through the maze created by the obstacles and overgrowth. He was right! He had prepared a way in the wilderness as promised. The valley on the other side was lush and green, springing up with life and brilliant colors.

You and I have read and studied about the "valley" for many years. We've pictured the beauty of the miraculous, the awesomeness of God's power. We've longed for His glory. We've looked for new ways and new methods to take us there...but in the end, there is only one way. Jesus IS the Way! We have to stay close and follow Him as He leads. We must refuse to be discouraged by seeming obstacles and difficulties. Our determination to get to the other side must be firm. This is the path our forefathers took when they walked in the supernatural power of God and witnessed His signs and wonders firsthand. It wasn't a moment - it was a movement that endured for many years. It was only as men began to neglect the ancient path of prayer and intimacy with God; of simple obedience to Him that the light of His glory dimmed and became a distant thing. What an opportunity is given to us!

It is time for us to stop looking for the "new" Word, new method, new wave or ways and simply do what our forefathers did when they experienced what we desire so much to see. Stay close and let the Holy Spirit lead. Love God and honor Him with simple, unquestioning obedience. This is the ancient path that leads to manifestations of His life and power. There is no other way! Let's pioneer the ancient paths together!

2009 will be a year of completion, fulfillment, and establishing. This is the year many will enter the "valley." It is time...