Holy Spirit has spoken a word of “release” over 2023. Let it be so, Lord!
From Ministries of Francis Frangipane. In spite of increasing tensions around the world, the Holy Spirit says, for many, this next year will be a year of release. While we must absolutely intercede for our nations, we also must refuse to become fearful or restrained by the pressures of the world around us. The constrictions experienced by this age are not death throes, but birth pangs; they are not part of what restricts us, but releases us.
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“Do not focus on the fearful things around you, the threats of terrorism or the portent of economic collapse; focus steadfastly upon your transformation!” God is doing a quick and deep work, and this world is the perfect setting in which to manifest Christlikeness. Darkness provides the perfect contrast to the rising glory of the Lord within us. “So, look for My release,” says the Lord. “For this year it shall come powerfully and suddenly.”
Year of Release
Beloved, the Father’s heart is impassioned for our release! Even now, the Holy Spirit is focused upon bringing new freedom to our lives, whether that release manifests in greater purity, more confident power or deeper intimacy with Christ, a spiritual release is coming.
Yes, Christ enters our lives as Lord and King, but He never stops being our Healer, Comforter and Deliverer. Even when He must confront and rebuke us, it is so He ultimately can release us. Remember, Jesus began His ministry with an amazing announcement, a proclamation which would define His eternal relationship with the church. He said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are downtrodden, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord” (Lk 4:18-19).
Jesus was anointed (that is, He was prepared and empowered by God) to proclaim “release to the captives.” He didn’t come to condemn captives, but to free them. He is not angry that we are “blind”; He comes to give us vision. He’s not disappointed that we are “downtrodden”; He comes to lift us up.
If you have received the anointing of Jesus Christ upon your life, then there is a constant updraft of divine energy working in your spirit to bring release from sin, recovery from wounding and freedom from the limitations of the flesh. The instant you look to God, you know His power is working; the moment you turn to prayer, resurrection power kicks into gear.
Jesus came proclaiming “the year of the Lord’s favor” (Lk 4:19 NIV). The Amplified adds, “. . . the day [when salvation and the free favors of God profusely abound].” Regardless of what you feel like, look like, or have recently been acting like, right at this very moment, the Spirit of God is extending His favor toward you, assuring you a release is on its way!
What This Means
In practical terms, this means if you’ve been incarcerated by sin or the devil, this year you will triumph over your enemies. If you have loved ones trapped in bondage, they too, as you intercede, shall know the Lord’s freedom. It also means if you have been treading water spiritually and going nowhere, a release is coming to you as well. This year shall mark a season of measurable spiritual fulfillment for all who desire to live like Christ.
Remember, though fearsome things may occur around us, something more awesome still is occurring within us. Christ’s church, the woman, is with child. This year shall be the year of great release!
How are you praying over America and the Church in 2023? Share your prayers and scriptures below.
(Used with permission. From Ministries of Francis Frangipane. Photo Credit: Canva)