About The Pastor, Author, Inventor During a recent radio interview, Dr. Joe Ballard was asked the question: "What makes you so hopeful?” & quot;As a student of faith, what gives me hope in these tenuous times is the knowledge that there is precedent for change and there’s precedent for hope. Hope is the breeding ground for change again and again.
Video of Conference Speaker
To be hopeless is to disregard faith. Without faith it's impossible to know, understand or be well pleasing to God. For we know that the world isn’t only happening now. Everything has happened before. And everything will happen again. And so that’s what gives me hope: to know that this present moment will be the past soon and the future is what we will make it." Seeking hope and saving the lost is Dr. Ballard’s vision and creating products and services that change people, are at the core of his Chicago- based ministry and business.
As Pastor, Joe is an international transformational speaker, writer, inventor, advisor, and anointed leader of Ambassador International Ministries, an all-encompassing network of ministries and training centers. Pastor Ballard holds a B.S. in Accounting and Business Administration from Malone Christian University and an M.A in Theology from World Harvest Bible College, his purpose is to ignite the gift of purpose into people spiritually, socially, and physically as they transform the world for Christ. Pastor Ballard shares ministry with his loving children Destini, Jeremiah, Joslynn, and Jordan.
As CEO of Ballard Creations, LLC His mother taught him to seek solutions and to embrace diversity as a Man of Faith. The increase of street violence, auto accidents and travel fears placed a demand for open communication which has motivated him to create the “My Window Buddy * Arc Guardian App.”
Earning a PhD in Organizational Leadership from Victory University, Alberta, 1996, has made him well known for transforming and motivating people of all walks of life, from world leaders to executives, celebrities and ambassadors, to adults and children in the most deprived neighborhoods in the country. Joe has visited over 38 countries and has spoken to millions of people. He often meets privately and counsels’ high-profile thought-leaders in various industries. An acclaimed author, transformation speaker and inventor, Dr. Ballard helps people create the future they desire.
His transformational message has created a "shift"... from universities to churches, to deprived children in third world countries. Using seasoned foundational principles and humor to get honest with people so they can overcome the obstacles that are holding them back. Along with a rigorous speaking calendar and private transformation coaching sessions, he also holds quarterly spiritually transforming online sessions across the world called So Much More 31-Day Action Challenge. Recently, Joe was chosen out of 30,000 candidates to pitch to Shark Tank (season 11), an American Reality TV Show on ABC. Currently, he hosts an exclusive Saturday morning series on Christ Family Network Radio/TV.
The loss of his father before he was born and the passing of his mother in 2006, turned Joe's life upside down. This culminating with two bouts of terminal cancer, drove Dr. Ballard to seek hope and purpose in God, he began
the journey to provoke an environment for change impact and manifestation for himself and for others.
His dream was to reach all people, so he began traveling throughout the world,
speaking to people in Brazil, Russia, West Africa, Nigeria, Canada, and more.
His ability to listen and genuinely care for those he encounters has led to
unique favorability among some of the most influential leaders in the world.
Though his realm of influence has evolved since the age of 10, his
HOPE remains the same.
In December of 22”, with an abundance of humility, Pastor Ballard received the Honorary Doctorate in Divinity Degree, from the United Graduate College and Seminary, which culminated 33yrs of service in the Kingdom of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Join us every Wednesday of the year 2025 as we Fast using the Daniel Fasting Principle
Fasting Strategy
Purpose of Fast: “Pray for the Spirit of Unity in the Body of Christ. Pray for Revival, Restoration, Refreshing, Families to be Saved, Salvation of Souls, Multiplication in the Body of Christ, Community Awakening to the things of Christ.
Join us every Wednesday @ 7:00pm AST
Type of Fast:
DANIEL 14 days FAST found in Daniel 1:12-17:
12 “Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink.
13 Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see.”
14 So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days.
15 At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food.
16 So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead.
17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.
MENU: What you may Eat and Drink on the Fast
BREAK-FAST:
Drink water, Turmeric tea, Dandelion teas, green-tea, local herbal teas and other healthy teas. Black COFFEE but without sugar only zero calories’ sweeteners.
LUNCH:
Salads: to include red/purple cabbage, red onions, raw garlic, garlic, lettuce, walnuts, almonds, tomatoes, carrots, celery, beets, pickled foods, capers, broccoli, cauliflower; etc.
Dressings: olive oil or avocado oil, pink or sea salt, black pepper, a teaspoon apple-cider vinegar, onion and garlic salt.
Eat before 7pm: Non-Meat soups, TEAS at NIGHT: Ginger, Peppermints, mints, Chamomile and/or lavender herbal teas.
Vegetable Soups: also recommended. Soup with no meat.
*No sweets, no treats*
B.Global Life Church Holy Convocation 2025
Note, for those who are on medication, please check with your doctor concerning how to participate in the fast.
If you cannot fast food because of medication or work intensity or other Instructions:
For those who cannot fast, here are some meaningful alternatives to enhance their spiritual journey:
1. Read the Bible More: Immerse yourself in God's Word. Choose a reading plan or study a specific book or theme.
2. Spend More Time in Prayer: Engage in heartfelt conversations with God. Pray for personal needs, others, and global concerns.
3. Praise and Worship: Set aside time to worship through singing, music, or even silent adoration. Create a playlist of your favorite worship songs.
4. Rest and Meditation on Scripture: Reflect on specific verses and allow them to resonate deeply. Practice mindfulness and rest in God's presence.
5. Watch Uplifting Content: Select inspirational movies, documentaries, or sermons that uplift and encourage.Avoid content that distracts from spiritual focus.
6. Engage in Acts of Service: Volunteer your time and skills to help others in need. Serving others can be a powerful form of worship.
7. Attend Online or In-Person Church Services: Participate in church services and community gatherings. Fellowship with others can strengthen your faith.
8. Journaling: Keep a journal of your thoughts, prayers, and reflections. Documenting your spiritual journey can be insightful and rewarding.
9. Study Christian Literature: Read books by Christian authors that offer wisdom and insights into faith. Expand your understanding of theology and spiritual practices.
10. Practice Gratitude: Make a daily habit of listing things you are grateful for. Recognize God's blessings in your life.
Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (KJV) - "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."
Lord, we lift up the government officials of the Virgin Islands. Grant them wisdom, integrity, and a heart for servant leadership.
2. Education
Scripture: Proverbs 1:7 (KJV) - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
Father, bless the educators and students in the Virgin Islands. May they seek Your knowledge and wisdom above all.
3. Police
Scripture: Romans 13:4 (KJV) - "For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil."
We pray for the police officers in the Virgin Islands. Protect them and guide them as they serve our communities.
4. Nurses
Scripture: Matthew 25:36 (KJV) - "Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me."
Lord, we lift up the nurses in the Virgin Islands. Strengthen them as they care for the sick and needy.
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5. Safety
Scripture: Psalm 91:11 (KJV) - "For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
Father, we ask for Your protection over the Virgin Islands. Keep our communities safe from harm and danger.
6. Economy
Scripture: Deuteronomy 8:18 (KJV) - "But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day."
We pray for the economy of the Virgin Islands. May it thrive and provide opportunities for all its citizens.
7. Finance
Scripture: Philippians 4:19 (KJV) - "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
Lord, bless the financial systems and institutions in the Virgin Islands. Provide for the needs of the people and lead them to financial stability.
8. Schools
Scripture: Proverbs 22:6 (KJV) - "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
We lift up the schools in the Virgin Islands. May they be places of learning, growth, and godly influence.
9. Protection on the Roadways
Scripture: Psalm 121:8 (KJV) - "The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore."
Father, we ask for Your protection over all who travel the roadways of the Virgin Islands. Keep them safe from accidents and harm.
10. Land and Sea Transportation Protection
Scripture: Psalm 107:23-24 (KJV) - "They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep."
We pray for the safety of all land and sea transportation in the Virgin Islands. Protect all travelers and transport workers from danger.
11. Our Islands' Security
Scripture: Psalm 127:1 (KJV)- "Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain."
Lord, we seek Your security over the Virgin Islands. Guard our islands against threats and grant us peace.
12. Ministry Leaders
Scripture: Hebrews 13:17 (KJV) - "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you."
We lift up the ministry leaders in the Virgin Islands. Strengthen them in their faith and guide them in leading their congregations.
13. Healthcare Workers
Scripture: James 5:14 (KJV) - "Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord."
Father, we pray for all healthcare workers in the Virgin Islands. Give them endurance, compassion, and the ability to heal.
14. Business Owners
Scripture: Proverbs 16:3 (KJV) - "Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established."
We lift up business owners in the Virgin Islands. May they conduct their businesses with integrity and be a blessing to the community.
15. Tourism
*Scripture: Deuteronomy 28:6 (KJV) - "Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out."
Lord, we pray for the tourism industry in the Virgin Islands. May it flourish and bring prosperity to the islands.
16. Environmental Protection
Scripture: Genesis 2:15 (KJV) - "And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it."
Father, we ask for Your wisdom in caring for the environment of the Virgin Islands. Help us to be good stewards of Your creation.
17. Youth Development
Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:12 (KJV) - "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."
We pray for the youth in the Virgin Islands. May they grow in faith, character, and godly wisdom.
18. Families
Scripture: Joshua 24:15 (KJV) - "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
Lord, bless the families in the Virgin Islands. Strengthen their bonds and help them to serve You faithfully.
19. Law and Order
Scripture: Proverbs 29:4 (KJV) - "The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it."
Father, we pray for law and order in the Virgin Islands. Guide our leaders and law enforcement to uphold justice and righteousness.
20. Unity and Peace
Scripture: Ephesians 4:3 (KJV) - "Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
We ask for unity and peace among the people of the Virgin Islands. May we live together in harmony and mutual respect.
21. Revival
Scripture: Psalm 85:6 (KJV) - "Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?"
Lord, we pray for a spiritual revival in the Virgin Islands. Rekindle our hearts with Your love and truth.
22. Refreshing
Scripture: Acts 3:19 (KJV) - "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord."
Father, send times of refreshing to the people of the Virgin Islands. Renew our spirits and bring us closer to You.
23. Island's Salvation
Scripture: Acts 16:31 (KJV) - "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house."
We pray for the salvation of every soul in the Virgin Islands. May they come to know and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior.
24. Repentance
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV) - "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
Lord, lead the people of the Virgin Islands to repentance. Help us to turn away from our sins and seek Your forgiveness.
25. Reformation for the Islands
Scripture: Romans 12:2 (KJV) - "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
Father, we ask for reformation in the Virgin Islands. Transform our communities and institutions to reflect Your will and purpose.
26. Revelations for the Islands
Scripture: Ephesians 1:17 (KJV) - "That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him."
We pray for divine revelations over the Virgin Islands. Grant us wisdom and understanding of Your plans and purposes.
27. Prophetic Words Open Over the Islands
Scripture: Amos 3:7 (KJV)- "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."
Lord, let prophetic words be fulfilled over the Virgin Islands. Speak to us through Your prophets and guide us in Your ways.
28. Healing for Our Islands and Its Population
Scripture: Jeremiah 30:17 (KJV) - "For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the Lord; because they called thee an Outcast, saying, This is Zion, whom no man seeketh after."
Father, we ask for healing for the Virgin Islands and its people. Restore health and wholeness to every individual and community.
29. Turning from Our Wicked Ways and Placing Faith and Trust in God
Scripture: Isaiah 55:7 (KJV) - "Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon."
Lord, help the people of the Virgin Islands turn from their wicked ways. May we place our faith and trust solely in You.
30. Peace in Our Borders
Scripture: Psalm 147:14 (KJV)- "He maketh peace in thy borders, and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat."
Father, we pray for peace within the borders of the Virgin Islands. Let harmony and tranquility reign in every corner.
31. Pray Against Sudden and Untimely Deaths
Scripture: Psalm 91:16 (KJV) - "With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation."
We ask for protection against sudden and untimely deaths in the Virgin Islands. Grant long, healthy lives to all residents.
32. Pray Against Earthquakes
Scripture: Psalm 46:1-2 (KJV) - "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea."
Lord, we pray for safety from earthquakes in the Virgin Islands. Protect our land and people from natural disasters.
33. Pray Against Hurricanes
Scripture: Psalm 107:29 (KJV) - "He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still."
Father, we ask for protection against hurricanes in the Virgin Islands. Calm the storms and keep us safe from their destruction.
34. Pray Against Sudden Tragedy
Scripture: Psalm 121:7-8 (KJV) - "The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore."
Lord, we pray against sudden tragedies in the Virgin Islands. Preserve us from unforeseen calamities and keep us in Your care.
May these prayer points bring hope, strength, and divine intervention to the Virgin Islands. Amen.
Meaning: Being intentional means deliberately making decisions and taking actions aligned with your goals and purpose, rather than leaving things to chance.
Bible Character: Nehemiah
Nehemiah was intentional in his endeavor to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. He carefully planned, prayed, and took deliberate actions to achieve his goal.
Scripture Reference:
"So I came to Jerusalem and was there three days. Then I arose in the night, I and a few men with me; I told no one what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem; nor was there any animal with me, except the one on which I rode." (Nehemiah 2:11-12, NKJV)
Salient Points:
Nehemiah's intentional planning: He assessed the situation quietly and discreetly.
Deliberate prayer: Nehemiah prayed for God's guidance and favor before taking action (Nehemiah 1:4-11).
Effective execution: Nehemiah mobilized the people and organized the work, ensuring everyone had a role in rebuilding the wall (Nehemiah 3).
Meaning: Discipline is the practice of training oneself to obey rules or a code of behavior, using self-control to achieve goals.
Bible Character: Daniel
Daniel exhibited discipline in his spiritual and daily life, adhering to his faith and principles despite challenges.
Scripture Reference:
"But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself." (Daniel 1:8, NKJV)
Salient Points:
Commitment to Godly principles: Daniel's discipline was rooted in his commitment to follow God's laws.
Consistent prayer life: Daniel maintained a disciplined prayer routine, praying three times a day (Daniel 6:10).
Integrity and excellence: Daniel's disciplined life resulted in him being distinguished among his peers and earning the king's favor (Daniel 6:3).
3. Consistency
Meaning: Consistency involves regularly adhering to a particular practice or set of principles, which leads to steady progress and reliability.
Bible Character: Apostle Paul
Apostle Paul demonstrated consistency in his ministry and personal walk with God.
Scripture Reference:
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7, NKJV)
Salient Points:
Unwavering commitment: Paul's consistency in preaching the gospel despite persecution and hardship (2 Corinthians 11:23-27).
Faithfulness in prayer: Paul consistently prayed for the churches and believers, showing steadfastness in his intercession (Ephesians 1:15-16).
Perseverance in mission: Paul's consistent effort to spread the gospel to different regions, establishing churches and mentoring leaders (Acts 13-28).
4. Dedication
Meaning: Dedication is the quality of being committed to a task or purpose, showing strong support and enthusiasm for what one believes in.
Bible Character: Ruth
Ruth's dedication to her mother-in-law Naomi and to God demonstrated unwavering loyalty and commitment.
Scripture Reference:
"But Ruth said, 'Entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.'" (Ruth 1:16, NKJV)
Salient Points:
Loyalty and commitment: Ruth's dedication to Naomi and her willingness to leave her homeland.
Embracing a new faith: Ruth's commitment to serve the God of Israel, showing true conversion and dedication.
Hard work and perseverance: Ruth's dedication to providing for Naomi, working diligently in the fields (Ruth 2:2-3).
Conclusion: Achieving Total Breakthrough in 2025
Intentionality: By being intentional like Nehemiah, we can set clear goals and take deliberate actions to achieve them.
Discipline: Emulating Daniel's discipline helps us maintain integrity and excellence in our endeavors.
Consistency: Following Apostle Paul's example of consistency ensures steady progress and reliability in our walk with God.
Dedication: Ruth's dedication inspires us to commit fully to our tasks and purpose, showing unwavering support and enthusiasm.
Total Breakthrough: When we integrate intentionality, discipline, consistency, and dedication into our lives, we position ourselves for a total breakthrough in 2025, allowing God's plans to unfold and transform our lives.
With these principles in mind, we can approach the coming year with confidence, knowing that we are equipped to achieve our goals and experience God's total breakthrough.
"And when I passed by you and saw you struggling in your own blood, I said to you in your blood, 'Live!' Yes, I said to you in your blood, 'Live!'" (Ezekiel 16:6, NKJV)
Introduction
God's Sovereign Choice: Israel's selection as God's chosen people was an act of divine sovereignty, illustrating His mercy and grace.
Covenantal Relationship: The Israelites were given covenants that established their unique relationship with God, highlighting their role in His redemptive plan.
Promise of the Messiah: The lineage of Israel brought forth Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God's promise of salvation to all nations.
A Commentary on Romans 9:4-6
Scripture Reference (NKJV)
"Who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen. But it is not that the word of God has taken no effect. For they are not all Israel who are of Israel." (Romans 9:4-6, NKJV)
Paul begins by outlining the unique privileges that belong to the Israelites. These privileges include:
Adoption: God chose Israel as His adopted children (Exodus 4:22-23).
The Glory: The visible manifestation of God's presence, often referred to as the Shekinah glory, which dwelled among the Israelites (Exodus 40:34).
The Covenants: The various covenants God made with the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—and later with Moses and David, establishing His promises and relationship with Israel (Genesis 17:2-7).
The Giving of the Law: The Law given to Moses on Mount Sinai, which outlined God's commandments and statutes for Israel (Exodus 20:1-17).
The Service of God: The worship and religious practices, including the priestly services and sacrificial system established in the Tabernacle and Temple (Leviticus 9:6-7).
The Promises: The numerous promises made by God to the Israelites, including the promise of a Messiah and the land of Canaan (Genesis 12:1-3).
2. Lineage and Christ:
Paul emphasizes that the Israelites are from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came. Jesus was born into the lineage of David, fulfilling God's promise that the Messiah would come from the house of Israel (Matthew 1:1-17). This underscores the importance of Israel in God's redemptive plan.
3. Not All Are Israel:
Paul makes a crucial distinction:
"For they are not all Israel who are of Israel."
This statement highlights that true Israel is not solely defined by ethnic descent but by faith in God's promises. True Israel consists of those who embrace and live by the faith of Abraham, whether Jew or Gentile (Galatians 3:7).
Conclusion
Spiritual Israel: The concept of Israel transcends ethnic boundaries, encompassing all who have faith in God and His promises.
Privilege and Responsibility: The privileges of the Israelites come with the responsibility of faithfulness and obedience to God's covenant.
Continuity of God's Plan: God's plan of redemption through Israel continues to unfold, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
Unity in Christ: Both Jews and Gentiles who believe in Christ are united as the true Israel, heirs to God's promises.
God's Faithfulness: Despite Israel's shortcomings, God's word and promises remain effective, demonstrating His unwavering faithfulness.
Here's a brief summary of commentaries on Romans 9:4-6 from the different commentary sources:
1. Dr. J. Vernon McGee: Dr. McGee emphasizes that the passage highlights the distinction between natural Israel and spiritual Israel. He explains that not all who are physically descended from Israel are part of God's chosen people; rather, it is those who have faith in Christ.
2. Dr. C.I. Scofield: Scofield's commentary focuses on the dual nature of Israel—the physical descendants of Abraham and the spiritual descendants through faith. He clarifies that the promises and covenants belong to those who are spiritually connected to Abraham.
3. John MacArthur: MacArthur delves into the unbelief of Israel and how it aligns with God's sovereign plan. He stresses that being a child of God is not about physical lineage but about being part of the spiritual seed of Abraham through faith.
4. Matthew Henry: Henry's commentary explains that the passage underscores the special privileges and responsibilities of Israel as God's chosen people. He also points out that the true Israel is not defined by ethnicity but by faith in Christ.
