2016 was a year of being faced with challenges that I embraced as an invitation for growth. Most of it was hard. REALLY hard as I struggled with a broken heart, massive confusion, and the resounding question of "What Now?" It was a year of learning the reality of spiritual warfare in a whole new way. Today I'd like to share with you 4 fantastic elements of Warring in the Spirit: 

1. Internal Investigation

When I was in the midst of the battle, feeling entirely disconnected with myself in disharmony and internal dissension I fought hard to overcome any and all areas of myself that may have been sick or out of alignment. It took dedicated and intentional time with the Lord to reveal the roots of hurt and heal my heart. 

Part of that process was participating in Kris Vallotton's eCourse on Bethel.tv, "Spirit Wars." 

One {of the many} things that was highlighted to me is the fact that we're not "bipolar" beings but actually TRIPOLAR {Body, Soul and Spirit}. I put in a ton of work to address each facet of my being to come into a pure, clean place with myself and with God. 

The result = HARMONY. My connection to God has become stronger than ever. I've also become more comfortable being me and embracing how He's made me and see beyond into how He continues to develop and prepare me for the plans He has for me. 

2. Observation

I've also learned to see beyond the natural in others as well. My discerner is working now better than ever before. I've always been observant, but now when I see when someone else may be "out of alignment" I ask God to show me if it's a result from a heart posture issue that's become a pattern or if what I see is a one-time, uncharacteristic behavior. 

3. Intercession

Learn to pray into what you see in the spirit and intercede in prayer by aligning your heart with Heaven; praying into His will for others. I consider this an honor as I get to "see into" the reality of what's happening instead of coming to a place inaccurate assessment . This is the blessing of intercession!

We all have a story, a struggle and a soul. What you see is only a piece of the puzzle. Stand. Pray. Believe and SEE God's glory manifest in personal growth and spiritual maturity. 

4. Celebration

I honestly can't count how many times I've seen the fruit of the spirit flourish in myself and others when I've obediently prayed into situations that seemed challenging and bleak. I've watched countless people grow past their limitations, set free from strongholds, delivered from unhealthy mindsets, repent from unwise behavior patterns, and GROW into a beautiful place of peace, harmony, strength, confidence and purpose. I've watched hardened hearts become soft. I've watched leaders rise. I've been blessed to be a witness!

• Learn to see beyond the natural

• Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit

• Lean into intercessory prayer

• Don't focus on the problem, pray into the solution.

• Don't talk about it, pray about it.

• Watch with excitement and expectation to see how God comes through!