Harold's Miraculous Jacket and the Unfolding Prophetic Truth

 The Deliverance Jacket!

Today, we're diving deep into a testimony that is going to absolutely rock your world. This isn't just a story; it's a supernatural encounter, a prophetic unfolding that speaks volumes about God's power to heal, deliver, and reveal truth in the most unexpected ways. I recently had the honor of interviewing my friend, Harold Vondenstein, on "Coffee with Conrad," and his journey is one that will inspire and challenge you. You can find more testimonies under the "Testimonies" label in the sidebar – stories of how Jesus heals, sets free, and delivers, even today. Harold's story is a powerful addition to that collection.

Harold shared an amazing testimony about a jacket – yes, a simple jacket – that became a canvas for divine revelation. This story has been unfolding for years, and the insights just keep pouring forth. So, buckle up, grab your coffee, and let's explore the incredible journey of Harold and his God-given jacket.

When God Speaks Through a Jacket

Boy, do I have a treat for you today! I've known Harold for a few years now. We first met at a music venue, became friends, and recently reconnected. And let me tell you, this man is on fire for God! At 72, overcoming physical difficulties, Harold is out there taking ground for Jesus, and he's a true inspiration. If he can do it, despite the challenges, what's stopping any of us?

What really captured me was his story about this jacket. He had a supernatural revelation, a direct word from the Lord about it. It’s a story of hitting rock bottom, encountering Jesus in a life-altering way, and receiving ongoing guidance that continues to amaze. Harold himself was wearing the "infamous jacket" during our interview, a tangible symbol of his incredible journey.

The Testimony of the Jacket – A Divine Blueprint

Harold's early life wasn't steeped in faith. He wasn't raised in a Christian family, never had a Bible, and spent most of his life struggling, with failed marriages, parenthood, and a general sense of things just not working. As he put it, his life was "crashing... all full of junk."

The Turning Point: A Cry in the Dark

It all came to a head on September 2nd, 2012. After 60 years of what felt like constant failure, Harold found himself in a fetal position, crying out to the Lord, begging for his life to end. But instead of an end, he found a new beginning. He sincerely prayed, "Lord, please, please just take over my life."

And Jesus answered. "It was just boom," Harold described. "He stepped in like a lightning bolt and he broke that spirit of death that was on me." In that moment, he heard a clear instruction: "Get up and get on down to that church down the road that you've been looking at... it doesn't matter if you're late." He obeyed, walked into the middle of a sermon on Romans 8, and for the first time, heard about unconditional love. His life was miraculously changed. That, my friends, is a true Acts chapter 9, road to Damascus encounter! Your life is never the same after something like that.

The Prophetic Jacket Revelation

Two years later, around Thanksgiving 2014, after a period of healing, Harold asked the Lord, "You've got to tell me what was wrong with my life. What was it that happened to me?" Again, God spoke. He told Harold to get a white jacket from his closet. He laid it on a table, and the Lord said, "Just start writing."

Words started pouring out of him onto that jacket. For about 20-25 minutes, he wrote like crazy, front and back. When he was done, the jacket was covered in words. The Lord told him, "This is what happened in your life."

Initially, Harold understood it as a representation of his sins, generational curses, trauma – everything that had opened doors for demonic infiltration in his life. He'd come to realize that demons were real and had been influencing him.

Unfolding Layers of Meaning

But the revelation didn't stop there. Years later, especially after a trip to Pennsylvania for intensive training with a minister named Kevin Riordan (whom I had the privilege of introducing him to), Harold gained a deeper understanding.

   The Front of the Jacket: This represented all the sins, the open doors – things he had done, generational curses, traumas inflicted upon him. These were the entry points for the enemy.

   The Back of the Jacket: This depicted the fruits of sin – poverty, bondage, bitterness, pornography addiction, infirmities, and afflictions.

Harold marveled, "There was no way I could have known that back then when I was writing." Even more astoundingly, he later realized the words were written in a pattern resembling crosses! This is so deeply biblical. As Isaiah 53 tells us, Jesus "was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5, KJV). He bore not only our sins but also our infirmities on that cross. Harold's jacket was a supernatural, visual testament to this profound truth.

Personal Reflections: When God Gets Personal

What I love about Harold's testimony is the raw honesty and the clear, direct way God communicated with him. He had no theological paradigms to filter it through; he was just hearing from God and then finding it confirmed in the Bible later. This is a beautiful example of how the Spirit and the Word agree!

It's also a powerful reminder that often, it's at our lowest point, our rock bottom, that we finally become open to encountering Jesus. My own journey has echoes of this. When you're stripped of everything, that's when His voice can become the clearest.

Harold's perseverance is another thing that deeply inspires me. Dealing with hearing issues and hip problems, relying on an e-bike to get around – many would use these as excuses to withdraw. But Harold? He's out there, sharing his faith, leading freedom nights at his church. He even traveled to Pennsylvania, overcoming significant obstacles, to seek deeper healing and understanding. That's faith in action!

His journey highlights the reality of spiritual warfare. The "open doors" he talked about – unsaved status, unrepented sin, disrespect, family involvement in witchcraft (Santoria), idolatry, unforgiveness – these are things that give the enemy legal ground. As Harold learned, these "allow the tormentors to come in."

Biblical References and Teachings: The Sword of the Spirit in Action

Harold's story is interwoven with powerful biblical truths. Understanding these scriptures is key to walking in the freedom he now experiences.

   Deliverance is Real: Harold's experience with a deliverance minister, Everett Cox, where around a hundred demons were reportedly cast out, might sound shocking to some. But Jesus Himself cast out demons, and He gave His disciples authority to do the same. "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils..." (Mark 16:17, KJV). Harold mentioned a list of 125 issues, which dropped to 59 after his initial encounter with Jesus, then to 12 after formal deliverance. This is the freedom Jesus promised when He said, "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." (John 8:36, KJV).

   Our Authority in Christ: One of the most empowering revelations for Harold was Luke 10:19 (KJV): "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." As children of God, once we accept Christ, we have this authority. We don't have to be victims of the enemy's schemes.

   The Importance of Renewing the Mind: Harold emphasized that deliverance is a process, a daily walk. A huge part of this is renewing your mind. As Paul writes in 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." We must replace the enemy's lies and ungodly belief systems with God's truth. Harold found that about 75% of deliverance is about this mental and spiritual renewal.

   The Father's Love: Despite all the hardship and the battles, the ultimate revelation for Harold was the Father's love. He used to think God was mad at him. But through his experiences, especially in Pennsylvania, he came to know God as "Abba Father," a loving Father who isn't angry but full of compassion. "He said, 'Look, son, I love you. Come, come sit here with me... There's some things that we need to work out... But you need to know that I love you.'" This echoes 1 John 4:16 (KJV): "And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him." This love trumps everything.

   Soul Ties: Harold also touched on the concept of soul ties formed through sexual relationships outside of God's design for marriage. He explained how these ungodly connections can lead to taking on the other person's "demons" or baggage, emphasizing the need to break these ties in prayer. This aligns with the biblical principle of two becoming one flesh (1 Corinthians 6:16) and the spiritual implications of such unions.

The Ongoing Journey: "Are You Prepared?"

A particularly poignant moment in Harold's story came when his beloved wife, Paula, was passing away in January 2024 after a battle with cancer. As he held her hand, knowing she was going to be with the Lord, he heard three distinct words in his head: "Are you prepared?"

This wasn't about Paula's preparedness, but his own. It startled him and became a catalyst for deeper introspection. He realized he had backslidden in some areas and wasn't as ready as he thought. This divine question ignited a renewed hunger for God, for reading the Bible daily, for going deeper in his spiritual walk.

This reminds me of Matthew 24:44 (KJV): "Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of Man cometh." It's a call to constant vigilance and wholehearted pursuit of God.

And look at what God has done since Harold recommitted himself! He was living on the second floor, struggling financially after Paula's passing. He asked the Lord for a nearby church and affordable housing. God led him to Crossroads Assembly of God, half a mile away, where he found fellowship and love. Then, through the pastor's wife, an affordable apartment became available right next door to the church! As Harold said, "Favor of God!" This is a testament to Hebrews 11:6 (KJV): "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." If you're about God's business, He'll be about yours.

Now, Harold is leading "Freedom Night" at his church, sharing about deliverance and dispelling ungodly belief systems. He's even playing his "Bible Belt Blues" for Jesus at ministry gatherings. From a supernatural encounter with a jacket to a thriving ministry, God's hand is evident.

AUDIO PODCAST HERE

What's On Your Jacket? Are You Prepared?

Harold's incredible testimony – from the prophetic jacket to the deep understanding of deliverance and the Father's love, all punctuated by the piercing question, "Are you prepared?" – serves as a powerful wake-up call for all of us.

His journey from brokenness to a life empowered by the Holy Spirit shows that no one is beyond God's reach. The supernatural isn't just for Bible times; it's for today, for you and me.

So, I encourage you to reflect:

   What's on your "jacket"? Are there areas in your life, past hurts, sins, or generational patterns that have opened doors to the enemy and are hindering your walk with Jesus?

   Are you walking in the freedom Christ purchased for you? Deliverance isn't a scary word; it's about stepping into the liberty God intends for His children.

   Do you truly know the Father's love? It's a love that casts out all fear and empowers you to overcome.

   Are you prepared? Are you diligently seeking God, renewing your mind with His Word, and living each day with eternity in view?

This isn't about condemnation, but about invitation – an invitation to go deeper with Jesus, to experience His healing, His freedom, and His incredible love.

Friends, if Harold's story has touched you, I urge you to take action:

1.  Examine Your Life: Prayerfully ask God to show you any "open doors." Confess any known sin. As 1 John 1:9 (KJV) says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

2.  Seek Freedom: If you're struggling, seek help. Check out Harold's website, Deliverance101.com, for resources. Remember, "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed" (John 8:36, KJV).

3.  Receive the Father's Love: Actively pursue an understanding of God's profound love for you.

4.  Renew Your Mind: Immerse yourself in God's Word daily. Let it transform your thinking (Romans 12:2).

5.  Walk in Authority: Understand and exercise the authority you have in Jesus over the enemy (Luke 10:19). Submit to God, resist the devil, and he will flee (James 4:7, KJV).

6.  Live Prepared: Cultivate a deep hunger for God (Matthew 24:44).

7.  Share This Message: If this post has blessed you, please share it with your friends, family, and on social media. Others need to hear this message of hope and freedom!

8.  Engage with Us:

       Leave a comment below! What part of Harold's testimony resonated with you the most?

    

Harold's Links:

https://deliverance101.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@mydailywalkindeliverance

https://www.youtube.com/@DemonsDontRule

newharold744@gmail.com

 The Power is in the Relationship, Not Just the Name

I've been thinking a lot lately about spiritual authority and how we use Jesus' name. It strikes me that there's a world of difference between invoking His name because I have a genuine relationship with Him and just reciting it like some kind of incantation or magic word, hoping for an effect.

Where Real Authority Comes From: Relationship

Scripture demonstrates is that as believers, we're given authority in Christ (Ephesians 1:19-23, Luke 10:19 really highlight this). So, when I act "in the name of Jesus," I understand it as operating under His delegated authority, reflecting His nature and character. It's not about any power I have, but about representing Him and accessing the power He gives through the Holy Spirit because I belong to Him. It makes sense then that casting out demons, as mentioned in Mark 16:17, is described as a sign following believers. It’s tied to relationship.

The "Incantation" Trap

I've seen situations where people who don't have a relationship with Christ use His name, maybe during intense experiences like night terrors, and the demon flees once or twice, but then comes back. This is because they are not ‘in Christ’ but are using the name of Jesus like an incantation.

• Spiritual Reality: The name "Jesus" itself carries incredible spiritual weight. He is Lord, and even demonic forces recognize His ultimate authority (like in Mark 1:24 or James 2:19). So, just hearing the name of Jesus causes the demonic to recoil.

• Missing Connection: But here's the key difference: without that genuine relationship, without being truly "in Christ," the person using the name doesn't actually possess the delegated authority that flows from belonging to Him. It’s like trying to use a power source without being plugged in.

Why using the Name of Jesus as an incantation doesn’t work

That temporary relief explains why the problem often comes back, sometimes even worse (that passage in Matthew 12:43-45 about the spirit returning with seven others comes to mind). The core issue – the person's spiritual state and their disconnection from Christ's authority – hasn't changed. The "house" is still vulnerable because the Spirit of God isn't dwelling there. This is probably why some people mistakenly conclude that "using Jesus' name doesn't work." The problem isn't the name; it's using it without the relationship – without the authority that comes from Him.

Is it Taking the Name in Vain? The Sons of Sceva Example

It makes me consider the commandment about not taking the Lord's name in vain (Exodus 20:7). Could using His name lightly, superficially, or just as a tool for a quick fix without genuine faith fall into that category? It treats His sacred name like a formula, detached from the actual Person of Jesus and His authority.

The story of the seven sons of Sceva in Acts 19:13-16 is such a sobering example of this. These were itinerant Jewish exorcists who saw the power Paul had when operating in Jesus' name. They decided to try it themselves, saying, "We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth." They were trying to use the name as a formula, completely disconnected from any personal faith or relationship with Jesus, and clearly without the power of the Holy Spirit that was evident in Paul. The evil spirit's response was chillingly direct: "Jesus I know, and Paul I recognize, but who are you?" The man with the evil spirit then overpowered them, leaving them wounded and fleeing. Their attempt to wield the name without the authority that comes from knowing Christ wasn't just ineffective; it was dangerous and arguably a perfect example of taking the Lord's name in vain – using it as a powerless incantation rather than representing the King.

Religious Rituals vs. Real Faith

It reminds me of superficial religious acts, like thinking putting a Bible on an Ouija board will somehow protect you. That's relying on objects or words as mere talismans, completely disconnected from the living faith they're supposed to represent. I believe true spiritual protection and authority don't come from external rituals done without faith, but from genuinely surrendering my life to Christ and living under His guidance.

My Takeaway So, the warning I feel compelled to share is this: Let's not treat the name of Jesus like a magic spell. True spiritual power, freedom, and authority aren't found in just saying a name, but in a life surrendered to Jesus Christ, in that genuine relationship, and operating within the authority He gives to those who are His. My hope is to encourage people towards that relationship, rather than suggesting they just try using His name as a quick fix without understanding or commitment.

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The Exorcist Unveiled: A Biblical Perspective on Spiritual Warfare and Demonic Possession

Exorcist: Truth Behind the Terror

Hey there, it's Conrad from ConradRocks.Net, and today we're diving deep into a topic that's both fascinating and spiritually significant. We're going to explore the true story behind the iconic movie "The Exorcist," and more importantly, we'll unpack the biblical truths about spiritual warfare and demonic possession. This isn't just about a Hollywood thriller; it's about understanding the real spiritual battles we face and how to overcome them through faith in Jesus Christ.

The True Story Behind "The Exorcist"

Many of you probably know "The Exorcist" as a terrifying movie that's haunted audiences for decades. But what you might not know is that it's based on a real case of alleged demonic possession. The story revolves around Ronald Edwin Hunkler, known by the pseudonym Robbie Manheim, whose experiences in 1949 became the basis for William Peter Blatty's novel and subsequent film.

As someone who's had my own encounters with the supernatural, I find this case particularly intriguing. In fact, I even ended up living in Linda Blair's old apartment in Los Angeles – talk about a strange coincidence!

The Catholic Approach vs. Biblical Exorcism

One of the most striking aspects of Robbie's case was the Catholic Church's approach to exorcism. They used relics, statues, and prayers to saints in their attempts to cast out the demon. While their intentions were good, this method differs significantly from the biblical approach to spiritual warfare.

In the Bible, Jesus gives His followers direct authority to cast out demons in His name. We don't need to rely on physical objects or invoke saints. As a believer, you have the power of the Holy Spirit within you to confront demonic forces.

Opening Doors to the Demonic

So, how did Robbie's possession begin? The sources point to his aunt introducing him to a Ouija board. This is a crucial lesson for us all: seemingly innocent objects can open doors to demonic activity. The Bible warns us in Deuteronomy 7:26 not to bring cursed objects into our homes.

In my own life, I've seen how certain items can invite spiritual oppression. I share a personal story in my book, "Open Your Eyes: My Supernatural Journey," about how getting rid of my heavy metal CD collection led to an unexpected deliverance. It's a powerful reminder that we need to be vigilant about what we allow into our lives and homes.

The Exorcism Process: Lessons from Robbie's Case

Robbie's exorcism took place over several weeks in two different hospitals. The process was long and arduous, with dramatic manifestations of supernatural strength, speaking in unknown languages, and even levitation.

While these events are certainly attention-grabbing, I believe the length of the process reveals some important truths about effective spiritual warfare:

1. Fasting and Prayer: Jesus taught that some demons only come out through prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:21). There's no mention of the priests engaging in extended fasting in Robbie's case.

2. Addressing Root Causes: It doesn't appear that anyone thought to remove and destroy the Ouija board that started it all. We need to address the underlying spiritual factors that invite demonic activity.

3. Building Faith in Jesus: The sources don't mention efforts to build up Robbie's personal faith in Jesus Christ. This is crucial for maintaining freedom from demonic influence.

Biblical Perspective on Exorcism and Deliverance

As believers, we need to understand that our authority in spiritual warfare comes directly from Jesus Christ. Here are some key biblical principles for dealing with demonic oppression:

1. Rely on the Authority of Jesus: Mark 16:17 tells us that believers will cast out demons in Jesus' name.

2. Use the Word of God: Ephesians 6:17 describes the Word of God as the sword of the Spirit. It's our offensive weapon in spiritual battles.

3. Practice Fasting and Prayer: As Jesus taught, some spiritual battles require this level of preparation and dedication.

4. Address Root Causes: Identify and remove any objects or practices that may have opened doors to demonic influence.

5. Build Strong Faith: A robust personal relationship with Jesus is your best defense against spiritual attacks.

Personal Reflections and Experiences

Throughout my journey, I've encountered various forms of spiritual warfare. From night terrors as a child to witnessing supernatural events, these experiences have shaped my understanding of the spiritual realm.

One particularly powerful moment was when I burned my collection of heavy metal CDs. As I describe in my book, I witnessed what seemed like demons leaving those objects, spinning upward like a hurricane. Immediately after, I felt a sense of freedom I didn't even know I needed.

These experiences have taught me the importance of staying vigilant in our spiritual lives. We can't afford to be passive when it comes to spiritual warfare.

Conclusion 

The story behind "The Exorcist" serves as a powerful reminder of the reality of spiritual warfare. But more importantly, it points us to the greater truth of Jesus Christ's authority over all demonic forces.

As believers, we're called to walk in this authority, to be aware of the spiritual battles around us, and to stand firm in our faith. Here's what I encourage you to do:

1. Examine your life for any objects or practices that might be opening doors to demonic influence.

2. Strengthen your relationship with Jesus through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers.

3. Be prepared to engage in spiritual warfare, always relying on the power and authority of Jesus Christ.

If you want to dive deeper into these topics, I invite you to check out my books, "Open Your Eyes: My Supernatural Journey" and "Overcoming Night Terror: Making the Demons Leave." These resources will equip you with biblical insights and practical strategies for spiritual warfare.

Remember, in Christ, we are more than conquerors. Stay vigilant, keep your spiritual armor on, and never underestimate the power of faith in Jesus.