Message for December 8, 2024 from Pastor Shirley

Isaiah 61:3 “To preserve those who mourn in Zion, to give to them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of  heaviness, that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified.” 

 In the above verse we are shown the remedy for the spirit of heaviness.  Heaviness always has the sense of anxiety, sorrow, grief, fear, dread.”  The word “heaviness” in this verse is the Hebrew word “keheh” which in addition to heaviness means “to grow dim, fade and faint”.  The spirit of heaviness wants you to grow weak, weary, and lose your praise!  This robs you of your joy.  Isaiah 61:3 tells us there is a garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. 

Kingdom Dynamics Spirit Filled Life Bible

The Glorious Garment of Praise.                                              
The Hebrew root for garment shows clothing casually thrown over our shoulders.  It literally teaches us to “wrap” or “cover” ourselves-that the garment of praise is to leave no openings through which hostile elements can penetrate.  This garment of praise repels and replaces the heavy Spirit.  This special message of instruction and hope is for those oppressed by fear or double.  Put on this garment.   A warm coat from our closet only resists the cold wind when it is “put on.”  When distressed be dressed-with praise!  Act according to God’s Word!