The brazen censoring of diverse intellectual debate has infected all aspects of American society. It has taken a toll on small business owners who are trying to make a living, but have been censored from marketing on Big Tech applications.

YouTube, Instagram and Facebook are just some of the larger tech companies who have censored conservative, Christian and any differing opinions from what is considered socially acceptable by the powers that be. These businesses who have upheld conservative or Christian values have suffered diminished marketing and business opportunities by the restrictions placed upon them in the digital world.

Many within the faith community have prayed for relief from this oppressive regime, much like the Israelites would cry out to God under the oppressive bonds of the Philistines, Babylonians and others. God honors and hears the cries of His people. In 2 Chronicles 7:14 He declares, “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 will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

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Who would have thought that formerly left-leaning Democrats like billionaire Elon Musk and podcaster Joe Rogan would be some of the leading voices against censorship and deception in America?

According to 2 Corinthians 3:17, “Now the Lord is the Spirit. And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty [freedom].”

Tracing a logical conclusion based off this verse, in the absence of the Spirit of the Lord, there is no freedom. There is oppression and censorship of the Word of God, which Christians are seeing take place across the globe.

While many at the Big Tech corporations are fighting to stifle the spread of the gospel message, victories are now being had by the body of Christ by way of digital means.

With stunning Christian media victories taking shape in the forms of The Chosen, Jesus Revolution and The Sound of Freedom, technology is being used to get millions of souls interested in this Jesus they have heard so much about. As prophesied by many voices about the year 2023, God is using the digital world to bring people to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

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With so many people living their lives online, the digital world is the only way for Christians to evangelize to them, and God is raising up a digital army to grab their attention.

Twitter is now a place of relatively free speech; Christian media is taking on Hollywood and it’s woke re-makes and people are searching for the answer to their spiritual thirst like never before.

Often, when one thinks of the Great Commission and going out into all the world, they think of this as purely a physical endeavor: going on a mission’s trip, helping at an outreach center or simply conversing with people they encounter. But there are millions they would never encounter because of the digital strangle hold Satan has on the lives of many across the world.

There is a digital “awakening” taking place. The lies that have permeated society are being revealed and people of all backgrounds are becoming aware of the deception that has been placed over them.

God is moving in the digital world, and His power knows no limits. As Christians embark on this newest endeavor, it is as imperative as it has ever been to be empowered by the Holy Spirit and grounded in the knowledge and wisdom of the Word of God.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

Amidst the challenges of medical debt, an Ohio-based Christian ministry is shining a beacon of hope for community members, one family at a time.

Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), a nonprofit ministry with a membership-based approach, exemplifies the spirit of compassion and support as Christians voluntarily share the burden of each other’s medical bills, as outlined on the nonprofit’s website. The Kaiser Family Foundation Survey of Consumer Experience with Health Insurance highlights that four in 10 insured adults face daunting cost barriers to essential medical care. In response to this pressing need, CHM is diligently working to provide a helping hand to those in need.

During a recent appearance on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” President and CEO Craig Brown passionately shared how CHM is making a difference in people’s lives.

Medical debt is a heavy burden that can cause not only financial distress but also anxiety and despair, dampening hopes and dreams. As the weight of such financial challenges becomes apparent, Brown affirmed that CHM serves as a faith-driven, affordable alternative to conventional health insurance.

The ministry’s members make regular contributions based on their chosen donation level, demonstrating the power of collective support and unity within the Christian community. Based on their selected program level, members can easily submit their medical bills and required forms to CHM, receiving timely reimbursement and a shared sense of relief.

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Over the past four decades, CHM has disbursed an astounding $9.4 billion to cover medical bills, providing a remarkable 40-60% overall cost savings for its members. Truly, as the Bible states in Proverbs 11:25, “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will be watered also himself.”

During an interview on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” CHM members Hannah and Blaine Crews warmly recounted their personal experiences with the ministry, narrating how it has transformed their lives. Hannah shared the story of their early years of marriage, when they faced unforeseen medical expenses due to her husband’s health challenges. CHM proved to be a lifeline, empowering them to navigate their medical costs wisely and enabling them to choose healthcare providers based on personal preferences rather than network restrictions.

CHM goes beyond the material realm, acknowledging the spiritual component of healing during medical challenges. As CHM’s Brown expressed, there is a profound connection between physical healing and spiritual well-being. James 5:15 reinforces this truth, “And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.” Through CHM, the presence of God’s love and grace is felt, bringing comfort and reassurance in difficult times.

The freedom to make cost-effective decisions brought a sense of joy to their growing family, just as 3 John 1:2 assures us, “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, even as your soul is well.”

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Beyond the financial support, the Crews family found solace in the faith-centered aspect of CHM. Amidst their challenges, they discovered the incredible power of community prayer and support, cherishing the rare and heartfelt act of fellow CHM members pausing their own activities to pray for their well-being.

As Psalm 37:3-4 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land, and practice faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Indeed, the sense of unity and shared faith within CHM nurtures a deep sense of belonging and care for one another.

As the ministry continues its mission to heal, affirm, and support individuals through medical hardships, the power of faith and collective prayer remains a steadfast cornerstone. CHM stands as a testament to the compassionate spirit of Christian love and the significance of community in uplifting one another during life’s trials.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

In the heart of North Springfield, Missouri, Freedom City Church has been answering a Christian calling to extend help to individuals grappling with homelessness and drug addiction.

Since its establishment in 2015, the church has implemented several programs, guided by a biblical perspective to reach out to those in need.

Pastor John Alarid of Freedom City Church sat down with Charisma to share how his church’s outreach programs are making an impact in the community, as well as his own thrilling testimony.

Among the church’s initiatives are “Hope Homes,” which offers a discipleship home tailored to aid men struggling with drug addiction.

The program “Straight Street” provides critical recovery housing for individuals exiting incarceration, facing substance use disorders and homelessness.

Expanding their outreach further, the church operates the “North Side Recovery Community Center,” a haven offering resources, classes and counseling for those seeking a way out of their dire situations.

“It’s just a place where people can come for classes, for resources such as food, to go get their ID, to get connected with a counselor,” Alarid explains. “So, we’re just seeing God move in powerful ways. And there’s just no end to the need.”

Central to Freedom City Church’s mission is the biblical principle of compassion and assistance to the suffering. A key verse that resonates with their work is Matthew 25:35-36: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

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With a Christian perspective on the intertwined nature of homelessness and drug addiction, the church acknowledges that substance use disorders often underlie many homelessness cases. Mental health challenges further complicate the situations of those struggling with addiction. Moreover, the church recognizes generational poverty addiction, and incarceration as significant factors contributing to the homelessness issue.

“A lot of people that are homeless are there because [of] the environment they grew up in,” Alarid says. “We’re talking about generational poverty, generational addiction, right here in North Springfield, generational incarceration.”

Freedom City Church’s approach to addressing these pressing issues emphasizes comprehensive and continuous discipleship. Recognizing that traditional methods may prove inadequate, the church advocates for 24/7 support. By providing recovery homes, workforce development opportunities and spiritual and counseling resources, the church aims to create a nurturing environment to help individuals break free from the destructive cycle of addiction and homelessness.

The personal journey of the church’s founding pastor, Pastor John Alarid, stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith and recovery. Having experienced a life ensnared in drugs, crime and incarceration, he found solace in his faith while attending Victory Outreach, leading to a remarkable turnaround. His story echoes the biblical lesson of redemption, where faith can transform pain into passion and purpose.

Over the years, Freedom City Church’s outreach has flourished, impacting numerous lives through their programs. However, the church also faces challenges in bridging the gap between the faith and recovery communities, and in navigating the unique cultural nuances of this population. Nevertheless, their commitment to viewing this community as a mission field and adapting their approach as needed demonstrates their dedication to fulfilling the biblical call to loving and serving the marginalized.

As the church continues to sow seeds of hope and transformation, their efforts epitomize the spirit of Christian compassion and the call to follow the teachings of Jesus, who sought to uplift the downtrodden and provide a guiding light to those in need. With a belief in the power of faith, support and discipleship, Freedom City Church remains steadfast in their mission to help individuals find their way out of the darkness and into a brighter, more fulfilling future.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

As the debate about UFOs and government secrecy rages on, one thing remains certain for those who put their trust in God: He is in control of all things, including the mysteries that surround us.

While some politicians and witnesses passionately argue about the existence of unidentified aerial phenomena and potential government cover-ups, the faithful find solace in the wisdom of the Scriptures.

According to Fox News, Rep. Tim Burchett, (R-TN) will lead the House’s second big hearing on UFOs of the past 15 months on Wednesday, July 26.

The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” As believers, we know that the pursuit of knowledge is essential, but we also understand that there are things beyond our comprehension. God’s ways are higher than ours, and in times of uncertainty, we are called to trust in His sovereignty.

The debate about UFOs often delves into questions about government transparency and the veracity of witness testimonies. In these moments, we can draw inspiration from 2 Corinthians 4:18, “While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” Our focus as Christians is on eternal truths, and we find comfort in knowing that God sees and knows all, even the hidden things.

“I believe there is something else out there,” said Burchett. “Dadgummit, whatever the truth may be, we’re done with the cover-up.”

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As lawmakers clash over whether the government is hiding something about UFOs, we are reminded of Luke 8:17, “For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and revealed.” While the truth may be concealed for a time, it is a biblical principle that eventually, all secrets will be exposed. This reassurance allows us to rest in God’s timing, knowing that He will reveal what needs to be known when the time is right.

“I’m stopped every weekend back in Knoxville,” Burchett says. “People will stop me and tell me about their experiences (with UFOs). Decorated veterans. Why would they risk their reputations and careers over something that they’re lying about?”

In the pursuit of knowledge, we must guard against falling into conspiracies and unfounded speculations. As 1 Thessalonians 5:21 instructs us, “Examine all things. Firmly hold onto what is good.” As Christians, we seek truth and discernment, avoiding unproven claims that can lead us astray. Instead, we anchor ourselves in God’s Word, which is the ultimate source of wisdom and revelation.

“It is really about getting to greater government transparency,” said Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL). “If the answers are, ‘No, there are no unidentified aerial phenomena,’ then say that. But that’s not what the answers are. The answer is, ‘We can’t tell you.’ And so that leads to speculation.”

While politicians debate the existence of UFOs and witnesses share their experiences, we find peace in the knowledge that God’s understanding is inscrutable (Isa. 40:28). Our faith in Him allows us to approach the mysteries of the universe with humility, acknowledging that there is much we do not know. Yet, we can be confident in the God who knows all things and is the source of all knowledge.

In the midst of conflicting opinions, let us remember Philippians 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with gratitude, make your requests known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will protect your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” As we navigate the uncertainties surrounding UFOs and government secrecy, we find peace in prayer and the knowledge that God is in control.

“We’re going to have witnesses who can speak frankly to the public about their experiences. We’ve had a heck of a lot of pushback about this hearing. We’ve had members of Congress who fought us. We’ve had members of the intelligence community and also the Pentagon. Even NASA backed out on us,” said Burchett. “There are a lot of people who don’t want this to come to light.”

Ultimately, whether UFOs are real or not, or demonic entities looking to cause chaos, our faith remains anchored in the One who created the heavens and the earth. Psalm 33:6 declares, “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all their host by the breath of His mouth.” The God who formed the stars and galaxies is the same God we put our trust in, no matter what mysteries the universe holds.

As discussions about UFOs continue, may we, as Christians, maintain our focus on God’s Word, seek discernment and place our trust in Him who holds the universe in His hands. Regardless of what the future holds, we know that our faith in God transcends all uncertainties, and He will guide us through the mysteries of life.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

In a recent series of visions and prophetic messages, revelations about the upcoming months of September and October have been shared by Troy Black, a Christian YouTuber, author and prophetic voice.

These visions carry both warnings and blessings, urging believers to seek a deeper connection with the Holy Spirit and stand firm in their faith.

To view Troy Black’s full prophetic message, click here!

In his testimonial, Black describes a period of darkness and sin over a decade ago when he felt distant from God. However, through repentance and seeking solace in the Scriptures, he experienced a life-altering encounter with the Holy Spirit. Since then, his mission has been to obey the Holy Spirit and share divine revelations with others.

On March 3, 2023, Black received a prophetic vision indicating significant events slated for September and October. He saw a museum with walls arranged like dominoes, showcasing precious artifacts like vases and clay pictures. In this vision, the Lord conveyed a message of “Temple robbery, destroying something of great beauty.” The vision was associated with the October timeframe, with an anticipated sign to occur around September, the full implications of which might only become apparent afterward.

Continuing on, Black had another vision portraying a display case featuring a warrior holding a spear and surrounded by artifacts. The Lord’s voice proclaimed that this warrior represented those willing to defend the right path within His house. It was an urging call for the warriors to rise and tear down the Ashtoreth poles and misplaced artifacts, drawing inspiration from the story of Gideon in Judges 6:25-26.

In light of these visions, Black emphasized the need for introspection and devotion to the Holy Spirit. Believers were implored to remove any form of idolatry from their lives and allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate the path ahead in obedience to Galatians 5:16. He highlighted that the Holy Spirit desires an undivided heart and lamented that idolatry might hinder individuals from hearing and understanding God’s voice.

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The significance of the upcoming events in September and October was underscored, with a warning that certain occurrences might not be immediately evident, but their impact would become apparent afterward. Troy Black urged believers to remain vigilant, discerning the signs and being open to God’s guidance in accordance to 1 John 4:1.

As Black shared these prophetic messages, he emphasized the centrality of Jesus Christ in the believers’ lives. He encouraged readers to trust in Jesus, the ultimate key that unlocks every door and the solid rock upon which everything is built. By putting their faith in Christ, believers could find unwavering stability and the assurance of eternal rewards.

Black ended with an exhortation for believers to examine their hearts, forsake idolatry (Col. 3:5; 1 John 5:21) and fully embrace the grace of God. He urged the faithful to place their hope in eternity, valuing a deeper connection with Christ above fleeting worldly desires.

The prophetic messages revealed through Black serve as a stirring call to stand firm in faith, tearing down idols and seeking a closer relationship with the Holy Spirit.

With September and October on the horizon, believers are encouraged to be vigilant, discerning and unwavering in their devotion to Jesus Christ, the ultimate source of hope and authority in their lives.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

A spectacular meteor shower lit up the skies over the Southern United States recently, causing awe and alarm among witnesses who feared the arrival of ‘Armageddon.’

Reports of more than 50 sightings flooded in from Texas, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana and Florida, as a massive fireball streaked through the atmosphere, captivating onlookers.

The American Meteor Society recorded numerous accounts of the bright, falling object, with witnesses describing it as a stunning display, resembling vibrant fireworks. Dash and ring cameras captured the other-worldly event, and the footage quickly circulated online.

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Witnesses marveled at the vividness of the sight, with one person from Frankston, Texas, declaring it the largest and brightest falling object they had ever seen. The meteor’s size was so impressive that a witness from Gulfport, Mississippi, likened it to the size of a car when it disappeared behind the trees.

The celestial phenomenon left many in awe, like the witness from New Orleans, who admitted to feeling alarmed by the event, wondering if it signaled the end of days. However, no explosions or tremors accompanied the sighting, leaving spectators mesmerized by the stunning flash of light, similar to fireworks.

Though witnesses from Cheneyville, Louisiana, believed the meteor might have landed in nearby fields, its exact location remains unclear. The visual spectacle left an indelible impression, with witnesses recalling the flash that briefly illuminated everything around them.

In Alabama, the meteor nearly brought one witness to tears, who expressed that this was no ordinary shooting star but something far more significant and extraordinary.

Some Louisianans caught a glimpse of the mysterious meteor and, amusingly, theories about alien life touching down in a UFO began to circulate. While these theories were playful and humorous, they highlighted the fascination and intrigue surrounding this celestial event.

Despite the initial fears and speculation, the meteor shower turned out to be a breathtaking display of nature’s wonder, leaving onlookers in awe of the majesty and mystery of the God’s creation.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

Rising tensions between China and Taiwan have reached a critical juncture, causing concerns over potential conflict. The small island nation faces increasing military intimidation from its mainland neighbor, prompting leaders to brace for the possibility of all-out war.

Amid these uncertain times, the people of Taiwan are finding solace in their unwavering Christian faith, seeking strength through the power of prayer. A remarkable prayer movement has taken hold, as individuals from various walks of life come together in continuous prayer sessions. Their focus lies in calling for spiritual revival, unity, repentance and protection for their homeland.

Taiwan’s Christians stand united, fervently believing that their petitions will reach God, and His guiding hand will bring peace and protection to their beloved nation. In the midst of rising tensions, they find comfort and assurance in the words of Philippians 4:6, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with gratitude, make your requests known to God.”

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Churches across denominational lines have embraced the Revival Prayer Group (RPG) movement, transcending borders and inspiring more than 40,000 Revival Prayer Groups to emerge, including participants from China’s underground church movement. This unprecedented unity serves as a testament to God’s work, and leaders aspire to expand the movement to impact China as well.

The collective hope is that ethnic Chinese will not be adversaries on the battlefield but partners in fulfilling an end-time mission to spread the Gospel across the globe. As tensions continue to rise, the people of Taiwan find strength in their unyielding faith, trusting that through prayer, miracles can happen, and a pathway to peace can be found.

In the face of daunting challenges, Taiwan’s Christians draw inspiration from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” With hearts steadfast in prayer, they stand united, fervently believing that their petitions will reach God and that His guiding hand will bring peace and protection to their beloved nation.

To read more about the revival taking place in China, click here!

Church leaders acknowledge the gravity of a potential Taiwan-China war, drawing parallels to the biblical tale of David and Goliath, envisioning devastating consequences if conflict were to break out. In the midst of these concerns, they implore churches worldwide to pray for Taiwan’s delicate situation, seeking God’s peace to prevail in cross-strait relations.

As the people of Taiwan face the uncertainty ahead, they find reassurance in the promise of Matthew 21:22, “And whatever you ask in prayer, if you believe, you will receive.” Their faith serves as a beacon of hope, guiding them through the storm and inspiring them to believe that prayer can make a difference between war and peace.

With hearts united in prayer, Taiwan’s Christians steadfastly hold on to their faith, seeking God’s intervention and trusting in His divine plan. They believe that through prayer, peace can prevail, and their beloved island can emerge stronger and more united in the face of adversity.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern warfare, the ethical use of artificial intelligence has become a subject of great importance. Lieutenant General Richard G. Moore Jr., a three-star general in the U.S. Air Force, recently emphasized that the foundational principles of a Judeo-Christian society give the nation’s military a high moral compass.

Speaking at the Hudson Institute, Gen. Moore highlighted the significance of a society rooted in Judeo-Christian principles, which places a strong emphasis on moral values and ethical conduct. He pointed out that not all societies share these values, and some may resort to any means necessary to achieve their goals.

“Regardless of what your beliefs are, our society is a Judeo-Christian society, and we have a moral compass,” Lt. Gen. Moore says. “Not everybody does, and there are those that are willing to go for the ends—regardless of what means have to be employed, and we’ll have to be ready for that.”

To read more on Judeo-Christian morality, click here!

The USAF’s approach to AI and autonomous warfare stands on a firm ethical foundation, in contrast to some potential adversaries. This is especially crucial when considering the application of AI in future international conflicts.

While the U.S. military has dominated the cyberspace and electromagnetic spectrum, emerging technological threats from nations like China, Russia, Iran and North Korea raise concerns about the responsible use of AI.

“What will the adversary do?” Moore said. “It depends who plays by the rules of warfare and who doesn’t. There are societies that have a very different foundation than ours.”

Experts in the field have urged swift action in securing AI dominance, as China reportedly leads the world in funding defense-related AI initiatives. In response to these challenges, the U.S. Defense Department has been diligently working on responsible guidelines for AI implementation on future battlefields. The focus is on leading in AI ethics and ensuring the lawful use of AI systems.

President Joe Biden’s State Department has also issued a declaration on the responsible military use of AI and autonomy. The declaration asserts that AI in armed conflict must adhere to applicable international humanitarian law, including its fundamental principles. It underscores the importance of keeping AI capabilities under responsible human control during military operations to mitigate risks, minimize unintended bias and prevent accidents.

Addressing ethical concerns surrounding AI use in war, Gen. Moore asserts that the Air Force will not permit AI to take actions, nor will it rely solely on AI-generated information unless it aligns with the core values of the military. This commitment to ethical AI exploration aligns with the broader perspective of valuing human welfare, autonomy and establishing just and fair social systems.

In a society where Judeo-Christian principles guide decision-making, the application of AI is governed by a moral compass, upholding values of compassion, righteousness and respect for human life. As technology continues to advance, the ethical approach taken by the U.S. military serves as a beacon amid the growing complexities of modern warfare.

The Bible reminds us of the importance of ethical conduct and treating others with respect and compassion. Colossians 3:12 says, “So embrace, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, a spirit of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness and longsuffering.”

As the world navigates the uncharted waters of AI and its role in warfare, a commitment to Judeo-Christian principles can provide the moral guidance needed to ensure that AI is harnessed for the greater good, upholding human dignity and adhering to the values that make humanity strong.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

The spiritual eyes of many are beginning to open across the world as physical manifestations of demonic entities are becoming prominent in societies that have abandoned God’s principles.

Evil is being recognized for what it is, and while some are still looking for the source of this evil transforming the cultures of the world into demonic sanctuaries, others like Pastor Greg Locke have recognized the need for the power of the Holy Spirit.

Sitting down with evangelist Benny Hinn to discuss a variety of topics that included an apology for speaking out and writing a book against Hinn years ago, Locke now believes in the same Holy Spirit power that Hinn has preached for decades.

But what pushed Locke, who was so certain that these “holy rollers” and “Pentecostal crazies” were wrong about the power of the Holy Spirit, into not just believing but becoming the spearhead of a renewed deliverance movement?

Locke, pastor of Global Vision Bible Church in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, discussed the spiritual-eye opening event that shook his cessationist foundations and turned him into a “charismaniac.”

A nine-year-old, demon-possessed girl was used by God to rock Locke to his very core and understand his need for the Holy Spirit to fight these minions of the devil.

To pre-order Pastor Greg Locke’s newest book on deliverance, click here!

“A young lady, she was about nine years old, we were baptizing her grandmother,” Locke told Hinn during their reconciliation interview. “And as we were doing that this young lady was in the baptistery with her grandmother in our tent. We have a big live stream and I knew all these tens of thousands of people were watching and she manifested a full-blown cat right on the spot.

“Her eyes went black, her face changed, she started hissing, she put her hands [up] and just started screaming,” continues Locke. “I knew it was demonic torment but my Baptist ways would not let me acknowledge that on the camera.

“So, I dismissed it. My wife was wrecked, and so she gave the microphone to one of the security guards and she said, ‘I’ve got to go find this little girl’ having no idea what we would have done had she found her.”

This case of a generational curse that opened the spiritual doors into a young girl’s soul emphasizes the impact that parents and their actions, beliefs and lifestyles have on their children, whether they acknowledge it or not.

These doors are being opened across America as many parents are handing their children over to demonic powers for clout, money and power. Gender transitions are happening at younger and younger ages, all with the approval of one if not both parents. Witchcraft, the occult and New Age practices are wrapping children up in the spiritual chains their parents are allowing by engaging in these rituals.

Yet this encounter with a spiritually bound girl was the tipping point that altered the course of Locke and his ministry’s future forever.

“That night, it was the turning point we needed. It was the embarrassing moment that we had to have, because we lay in bed and she [Locke’s wife] looked me right in the eyes… and she said, ‘Shame on us. We pastor a big church with a huge influence that reaches millions of people online and we don’t even have enough Holy Spirit power to cast a demon out of a nine-year-old kid in a baptistery.'”

This humbling, yet necessary moment of realization has hit many ministers and pastors throughout the ages, and when such a Damascus Road-moment happens, spiritual victors often follow.

Those victories are needed in America right now. Petty bickering, finger-pointing and accusations carry no spiritual weight behind them, instead humility, repentance and reliance on the Holy Spirit will bring with them victories in the spiritual battles taking place.

America needs more people like Pastor Locke putting the Holy Spirit forward—not themselves—and plugging in to the power source that allows the casting out of demons and setting the captives free.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.

When the Lord places a call on our lives for a ministry, He always comes through and provides the necessary provision to fulfill His vision.

This reliance on God to bring in the funding and people to carry out the mission God put on Pastor Matthew Barnett’s heart is the driving factor as to why the LA Dream Center is one of the leading ministries in all the world.

Located in the heart of Los Angeles perched atop a hill off the Hollywood freeway, the Dream Center has endured countless storms in the City of Angels.

The pandemic would have put any ministry not rooted in the Bible out of business. Instead, it put the Dream Center at the forefront of the battle combatting homelessness, fentanyl addiction, food insecurity and joblessness with love, practical care and the Word of God.

God is continuing to demonstrate his faithfulness using partners like Pastor Jentezen Franklin of Free Chapel in Gainesville, Georgia, to meet the need of this massive ministry.

“You know, we lost $1 million of income because our short-term mission’s groups couldn’t come here [during the pandemic] or speaking trips for my dad and I [to] raise money,” explained Barnett during the Dream Center Special interview with Jentezen Franklin.

To watch the full Dream Center Special, click here!

“For the first time in my life I thought, ‘Man, it might be over,'” Barnett admitted.

The Lord had different plans however, not only to have the Dream Center survive, but thrive amidst their new normal.

In response to the recent pandemic and lockdowns that ensued, ministries like the Dream Center were put into emergency mode, and are still working to find what their new normal looks like post-lockdowns.

“I think the days are done of the former Dream Center,” Pastor Matthew shared with Charisma News in an exclusive interview. “We’ve been in emergency mode for three years, where every day feels like an emergency.”

In this storm of uncertainty, the faith and prayers of the Dream Center were answered by Franklin’s ministry located across the country in northern Georgia.

After being given a tour of the ministries and new floors being worked on the Dream Center to house families in distress, Franklin revealed to Barnett what the Holy Spirit had put on his heart.

“As you guys were speaking and ministering, I just heard that gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit,” Franklin told Barnett. “It’s always been my dream to give your ministry a $1 million gift. It’s been in my dream[s] for over 30 we’re gonna do that. We are able to do that and God’s going to help us do that.”

A visibly emotional Barnett thanked Franklin profusely, knowing that his and thousands of others prayers had just been answered.

This amazing work of God took two important things to occur:

• A person willing to submit everything to God and build a ministry where they were told. Barnett has demonstrated a complete submission to the will of God in his life by not just starting the Dream Center in the L.A., but staying true to that vision and depending on the Lord to see this ministry flourish
• A ministry willing to give at the Holy Spirit’s direction. No questioning, not arguments, but an immediate “Yes, Lord” that Franklin has demonstrated. Giving $1 million is no small task, even to as honorable a ministry as the Dream Center. Yet it is the submission to the Holy Spirit’s direction and adherence to God’s Word that has put Franklin and Free Chapel in the position to bless other ministries the same way that God has blessed theirs.

These two different yet so similar ministries are both a testament to the goodness and provision of God, and examples for churches and outreaches across the globe to emulate.

The demonstrations of the fruit of the Spirit in both men, their ministries and their churches are reflected in the massive difference they have made in millions of lives throughout their tenure on earth.

By putting God and His will first before their own, it has allowed the Holy Spirit to move through them and their ministries and provide the means necessary to fulfill the areas of the Great Commission that God has placed His faithful servants.

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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.