Pruning For Growth

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.” –John 15:1-2 (NASB)As I approach my final months in Wales, this truth has been reverberating throughout my being. I have been learning how to remain rooted in The Lord while facing the challenges of adjusting to a brand-new culture and intense schedule of ministry.While I am unsure about what the next step looks like, I am sure of this…WHEN THE LORD DOES THE PRUNING, HE DOES…
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DISCOVERY

One of the key words that keeps popping up throughout my time in Wales is DISCOVERY.As an author and avid writer, I pay attention to the consistent occurrence of specific words over a sustained period of time. This has happened through many different ways. Whether in songs, on television, or through Scripture and other reading; there is usually a link between the words and something that The Lord is trying to teach me.In the seven months since I landed in Wales, every day has held new and exciting discoveries. New foods, people, places, surroundings, and experiences have become a dominant…
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Soaring Above My Fear

During my missionary journey, one of the most difficult struggles has been the distance. I wouldn’t call it homesickness, because I have lived away from my hometown before. Whether I look at the distance of time (anywhere from five to eight hours behind my family and friends), the distance of those I love, or the distance of authentic tacos; I find that the familiar seems so very far away at times. That is why I was beyond thrilled at the opportunity to reconnect with my “fam” while spending the holidays in America. It was a beautiful, yet difficult trip because…
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From Me to WE

INTRODUCTION: This spoken-word poem was originally written for some of the missionary work that I am doing in Wales. I hope that this simple testimony encourages you, and inspires you to transition from a "me" focused lifestyle to the community that resides within the "WE" of Christ-centered community.   FROM ME TO WE: By Shane M. Oberlin I was born in America, in a very nowhere place. Quite often, people would look at me like I was from outer space. Their pace was not one that I would chase, emulate or embrace. I had a bad case of never fitting…
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Change Your Perspective

As I write this, I am seated outside on a weathered bench; safely nestled in a picturesque meadow. I am surrounded by trees, a sweet song on the Summer breeze, and a resounding whisper from The One Who formed my soul. Even the gravel in the parking lot emanates the glory of God in a way that is becoming increasingly rare. There is a rich deposit here; a deep well that grants life-giving refreshment to all who are thirsty. This oasis is home to an Ekklesia that has grafted me into their family; despite the fact that I live nearly…
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Words In Due Season

“A man has joy in giving an appropriate answer, And how good and delightful is a word spoken at the right moment – how good it is!” Proverbs 15:23 (AMP)Recently, I experienced a first-hand reminder of the reality found within this passage.While attending a service at my church, my pastor was teaching about the spiritual Gift of Encouragement (Romans 12). After the message, there was a time of “activation,” which encouraged parishioners to begin stirring up this gift within the congregation. As people began encouraging those around them, I felt The Lord “highlight” a few individuals for me to encourage.…
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Manchester: UNITED!

Yesterday, a senseless act of terrorism in Manchester, England stunned the world. A suicide bomb was detonated at Manchester Arena as over twenty-thousand people were heading back to their hotels, hostels, and homes after watching musician Ariana Grande perform. Daesh (the Arabic word for “cowards,” known to many as ISIS) is claiming responsibility for this attack. This act of terrorism is the deadliest in England since July, 2005; when suicide bombings in central London claimed fifty-two lives. As I write this; twenty-two people are confirmed dead and fifty-nine more were injured. Many of them were children and youth. Normally, my…
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REBIRTH

Today is a very special day for me. There are many reasons for this, and not all of them would be considered good ... Three years ago today, I was at the lowest point of my entire life. My hope had faded, my dreams had died, and my faith in God was at an all-time low ... I was broke, homeless, and emotionally bankrupt. I had lost the will to live. I contemplated many ways to just make it stop. The inner turmoil was boiling over, and the cacophony of my soul was deafening. "Rational" thinking was nowhere to be…
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The Truth About Racism

In the English language, there are many controversial words. Abortion. Homosexual. Democrat. Republican. Evolution. The “N” word. Muslim. Christian. Yet, few of them have conjured the same collective attitude as Racism. I despise racism. In fact, I go so far as to ban the word from my everyday speech. All of us belong to the same “race.” The Human race. This may sound extreme to some, but if you look to Scripture, you may change your mind. In Scripture, the Greek word “ethnos,” is usually translated as “gentile,” or non-Jew, yet its meaning goes far beyond that. Ethnos refers to…
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The Death of Pursuit

It has been quite a while since I have posted any new content to Conquering Kingdoms, and there are several reasons for this. First, I haven't made the decision to just sit down and write something that is not related to work or school. (English Composition is taking the vast majority of my time...) Second, I have been reflecting upon many personal issues that I will not expound on in this forum. But, wait a second; this is the internet! Aren't you entitled to access every thought I have? Shouldn't you be able to read, hear, and watch every moment…
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Alive

Hello! It has been quite awhile since I actually took the time to sit down and write. I forgot how much I missed it! Anyway, I wanted to thank you for reading my ramblings, and for continuing to follow Conquering Kingdoms. There are some really exciting developments on the horizon, and I am looking forward to watching what God will do through them! The words below were penned while reflecting upon the past year of my life; remembering the pain, the purpose, and the Divine Detours along the way. Be encouraged today! Because of the sacrifice of Christ, YOU ARE…
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Conflicting Kingdoms

This poem was partially inspired by one of my classes during my last semester of school. As a class, we studied the conflicting philosophies and "kingdoms" of thought that comprise a culture. These perspectives influence every aspect of our lives, even our political and religious views. The Bible clearly shows us the juxtaposition and the conflict between the kingdom of darkness and The Kingdom of God. I hope that you are encouraged today; and that this reminds you that as followers of Jesus, we are already destined for the victorious and wonderful "city of Light." Even when it looks like the dark…
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Seize The Suddenly!

If I could summarize the last year of my life using only one word, I would probably use the word "suddenly." However, there are a few other contenders; such as "upheaval," "transition," "whirlwind," "struggle," "desolate," and of course I can't forget my personal "favorite;" "hellish." Yep. I just said it. Hellish. (If you don't believe me, feel free to check out my three-part series called "The Benefit of Darkness, located here, here, and here!") But all joking aside, I really would choose the word SUDDENLY. Merriam Webster's dictionary defines suddenly as: "Something happening, coming, or done very quickly in a…
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The Danger of Discovery

Discovery can be a very dangerous thing. Just ask anyone who has taught a teenager how to drive a car! This hormone-fueled, inexperienced, and unfocused youngster will eventually obtain authorization, and the keys to a four-thousand pound, rolling death machine! On the open road! Where I drive ... (I must still be healing from my three years of exposure to Dallas traffic!) Anyway, enough about cars. Discovery can be dangerous in many expressions, but I specifically want to focus on how dangerous and damaging our discoveries can be for the kingdom of darkness. As Christians, one of our major mandates…
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The Realization of Identity

Identity is a powerful thing. Without it, our society, and entire way of life would cease to function. Seriously, we would have a difficult time trying to do anything (especially when government bureaucracy is involved...). With the advent of the internet, one of the fastest growing businesses is the prevention of identity theft! Yet every day, there are so very many people who walk the streets without the slightest clue that they were made for something more. Something bigger. Something extraordinary. Our identities are based in two very simple-yet-complicated concepts: 1. Who does God say He is? 2. Who does…
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The Benefit of Darkness – Part 3 of 3 – The Solution

In my previous posts, “The Struggle” and “The Sorrow,” I began detailing my journey through the valley, and my eventual discovery of a “benefit” to the darkness that began to surround me. Here is what I found… When I was in the middle of my struggle, drowning in my sorrow, I never thought that anything good was going to come from it. But even in the midst of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, I found it! The Benefit of Darkness. However, it took me a little bit longer to realize just what I had found. It didn’t “click” for me until a…
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The Benefit of Darkness – Part 2 of 3 – The Sorrow

In my previous post, “The Struggle,” I began detailing my journey through the valley, and my eventual discovery of a “benefit” to the darkness that began to surround me. The story continues… During this time, I felt like everything and everyone had passed me by. I even felt like God Himself had passed me by. Most of my friends were moving onward and upward, some of them into influential ministry positions, with many becoming missionaries in Africa, Europe, Asia, and The Middle East.  How could I face them? Their lives were filled with adventure, excitement, and intrigue. Mine felt like…
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The Benefit of Darkness – Part 1 of 3 – The Struggle

AUTHORS NOTE: The Benefit of Darkness?! Is this some kind of typo? No, I’m afraid it’s not. However, before I begin, I would like to tell you a secret… Being transparent about my own personal struggles is probably my least favorite thing to do. Which I believe is one of the main reasons that God directed me to start Conquering Kingdoms. Not only to find personal freedom, but also to use my life to encourage others, bringing the One Who is Hope to those who are seeking. That being said, this is probably the most personal thing that I have…
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The Mystery of Divinity

The world was formed and fashioned by a Voice. An enigma, a contradiction; large enough to command galaxies but soft enough to speak peace into my soul. Everything that exists today was established and is held in place because of … a Voice. The Voice of Almighty God. From “Let there be light” to “It is finished” and many times since, the Voice of God has resounded through the ages and has directed and drawn His creation to Himself. From Abraham, Elijah and John the Baptist to modern-day men and women, God has stirred and spoken to the hearts of…
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Does “One Size” REALLY Fit All?

There is so much beauty in diversity. God created us with different purposes in mind, and with different expressions of those purposes. Some have been equipped with the skill set, gifting and the desire to be pastors (not me), and some have the desire, direction, and education to step into the political arena (also, not me). Yet, you cannot compare the two. It would be like comparing a screw and a nail. They are both used with a different tool, but have a similar function, but are not identical. If you try to screw a nail into the wall, it…
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Divine Detours

    God has a way of working through our lives to get us to a place beyond our wildest dreams, but this usually happens through circumstances that we least expect.  I like to call this little phenomenon: “The Divine Detour."I have seen God take me to places that I never expected to go, through ways that I never expected to get there. I never expected to go to Jordan, or anywhere near the Middle East for that matter. I know that I am called to other nations in other areas of the world, so my trip to Jordan was…
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The Answer

          This poem came to me over the past few weeks, because I found myself in a time when I was seriously questioning my direction. I have always felt "different" or like I was the only one who ever went through different struggles. I was desperately seeking "the answer" to these unwelcome feelings, and The Answer is what I found!           I wrote this poem because I came to the realization that our Creator God never makes a mistake, and that you and I are created with specific purposes and destinies in mind.…
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Learning the Lexicon of Liberation

Lexicon: The words used in a language, by a person or group of people; the vocabulary of a person, movement, or branch of knowledge. As a young boy, I had dreams about changing the world and I could imagine bringing to life a society that has been lulled into slumber. But I had no concept of where to begin. As a child, I grew up in church but I was never taught about reforming anything but my own life. I grew up believing that the only way you could really serve God was either through becoming a missionary or being…
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The VOICE Behind The Veil

This poem originated from my journey to Jordan this past summer. I was confronted by the stark reality of the burqa, and how completely opposite it is of everything that I stand for. God created women to be loved, cherished, honored, and respected; not objectified, abused, despised, or relegated to a position of lowly subservience. I hope that this poem brings perspective, and that you are stirred to action against this atrocity.      From within her fear stained eyes, I can hear the mournful cry; of hopes that never lived, and a dream that long since died.    …
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From Peril to Power in the Promised Land

This article was originally intended as a companion piece to my previous post about my journey to Jordan. This is the story of one of the believers that I encountered there. His story is amazing, but I have changed his name in order to protect him, his family, and the people that he is connected to. Because, according to sharia law, (the prevailing system of government in Muslim countries) it is illegal to convert any Muslim from Islam to any other faith. This "crime" is usually punished by imprisonment, torture, or death. Pray for believers like Jacob, that God's truth…
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Conquering Kingdoms 2.0

Hey everyone!      It feels SO good to start writing again!! I have let other priorities take precedence over my personal writing, and I recently decided that I needed to make some time to do what I love again. I hope that you like the new website design! The focus of my life has begun to shift over the past few months, and I believe that the new design and content will reflect that. You will be able to keep up with the newest posts on the main page, but I have added tabs in the upper-right-hand corner to…
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Jordan: Uncovering The VOICE Behind the Veil

Hello Everyone! So much has happened in just a few short months ... I can't believe that it's already Spring!! The last few months have been a blur; in between school, work and internships I have not been posting as regularly as I would like to. Later this year, I am preparing to launch into a lot of new and exciting things that I can't wait to share with you. For the past year, I have been involved with Christ For The Nations "The Voice" Magazine! The Voice has a rich legacy that is rooted in the revivals of the past and…
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A Change in Seasons

Hello again! The last few months have been a blur; in between school, work and internships I have not been posting as regularly as I would like to, but next year will be better! 2014 is the beginning of a lot of new and exciting things that I can't wait to share with you. The first of them being my involvement with Christ For The Nations "The Voice" Magazine! The Voice has a rich legacy that is rooted in the revivals of the past and yet connected to what God is currently doing in the nations. Gordon Lindsay started The…
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The End is Near…

My time in Jordan has almost come to its inevitable conclusion. I have a mixture of emotions about my time here. I will be happy to see my family and friends, and to watch their faces as they react to my stories and to the gifts that I am bringing back for them. (I will also be happy to sleep in a real bed.) I will be sad to leave all of the wonderful friends that I have made in just the few short weeks I have been here. I will miss the excellent food; shawarma, uzi, umm ali and…
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Hands & Feet

Marhaba (Hello) from Amman, Jordan! As I sit here, I can look out and see the beautiful cityscape; and it feels like I am in a whole new world. The scenery is difficult to describe, but it is like a conglomeration of your history books and modern-day architecture. The schedule here is frenetic at best, so my grand plan of posting daily has quickly turned into posting whenever I get a spare moment that is not consumed by sleep (Like right now.). For the whole trip so far, the song "Hands and Feet" by Audio Adrenaline has been running through…
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777’s & Clif Bars

  Here I sit, about 5000 miles from home; in London, England. My head is hurting from allergies that came from the rapid shift in climate, and my mind is wandering because of my lack of sleep (the in-flight movie/TV selection did not do much to help this predicament). Our plane was very nice and very big, (a 777!) but the food was terrible (I never thought I would miss college food), so I'm very grateful for my small cache of snacks which have sustained me thus far (a big thank you to the makers of Clif Bars; for making them…
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Following The Voice

Genesis 12:1 AMP "NOW [in Haran] the Lord said to Abram, Go for yourself [for your own advantage] away from your country, from your relatives and your father’s house, to the land that I will show you." As I prepare to leave for the Middle East in just a few short days, I am reminded of Abraham's pioneer journey... He left all that he had ever known; his family, his friends, everyone and everything that was familiar to him. He left it all to follow a Voice. A Voice that was unusual to his idolatrous culture; a Voice that drew…
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Cross The Line

 I originally posted this poem to my summer outreach team blog a few months ago, but I wanted to share it here for two reasons. First, I like it, I wrote it, and I wanted to encourage you with it. Secondly, I wanted to use this opportunity to invite you to sow into my life by investing financially in my team. Our financial deadlines are fast approaching, and we could use your help! If you are able to help - either through prayer, or financially - feel free to check out the above link for more info. Here's the poem :)…
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The Fellowship of The Unashamed

I have always been fascinated by martyrs; people both young and old who were compelled by a cause far greater than themselves, filled with a passionate zeal to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every tribe, tongue and nation, even if that meant that their stand would cost them their lives… As I look at the state of the world today, with unjust laws being passed and the Word of God being removed from its rightful place as the cornerstone (and this is not just happening in America, but worldwide.) I am being faced with the stark reality that…
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Beauty From Ashes

A few weeks ago I was given the opportunity to take part in a prayer meeting on a piece of property that my school recently acquired. They plan to use the land for a counseling center available to students and strangers alike. I was thrilled at the opportunity to participate in the foundation of something so dear to my heart, and the establishment of something so vital to our world today – counseling based on the principles found in God’s Word, not the feeble, failing attempts of man to outsmart and circumvent the will and word of God. From the first…
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Away I Go! Away!!

  I wanted to update you on a relatively new development in my life. I will be taking part in a humanitarian relief mission in the Middle East later this year! I am so excited about this opportunity to impact the hurting and wounded with compassion, and be able to make a difference in their lives instead of just reading about them in the newspaper. If you would like to know more, or if you would like to support this endeavor (either through prayer, or through a financial gift) check us out at www.awaywegoaway.com.
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What is Ministry??

Ministry is a very interesting word to me. Many people have varying views on what this word means and different opinions on how to put it into practice. Some look at ministry as only the five-fold ministry gifts detailed in Ephesians 4:11 (Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor, Teacher).  Some see ministry as a goal to be reached, either through hard work or sheer determination that will eventually result in recognition for their cause.Others view ministry as an elusive dream, something that they aspire to but see as too big for them to accomplish alone, and therefore is (in their mind) impossible.…
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The Path of Faith:

I came across this as I was going through some old writings, and I figured that it would be a great way to start off this blog! To me, this poem speaks of the journey that we embark on when we take the plunge and make the choice to follow Jesus, and I hope that this poem is able to encourage you and remind you that the sacrifices that you have made and the ones that you eventually will make are always WORTH IT! Enjoy! THE PATH OF FAITH As I step into the great unknown, oh so very far from home.I…
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