WHAT IT REALLY MEANS WHEN YOU HAVE A TARGET ON YOUR BACK You are moving mountains the enemy is occupying. Your obedience is shifting spiritual atmospheres, tearing down strongholds, and disrupting the enemy’s plans. You are taking ground the enemy thought he owned. Every step you take is reclaiming territory for the Kingdom of God, advancing into areas the enemy has long held captive. You are breaking free from cycles of fear, lack, and striving, stepping into the abundant life Jesus promised.

Being in ministry for any length of time one goes throug many seasons and many transitions. What we know at YOGAFAITH is GOD IS FAITHFUL! He never forsakes us and He uses everything for our good (Rom. 8:28). What Nate calls Slipstream we call the Jet stream of grace, as in once you get beyond the TURBULENCE and above the clouds God has a jet stream of grace for you to REST and ABIDE in His presence. Its beautiful there! Playlist mentioned: YOGAFAITH ABIDE https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4wRz2JcT10bJfjjHlUPNak?si=61bd6cd175d545f6 This includes a prophetic word from Nate Johnston's Stepping into the Slipstream of Your Transition. You can find the written word here: https://nateandchristy.co/my-postf139a119

The Full Armor of God // Crown Chakra {Prayer + The Helmet of Salvation} Video at: https://youtu.be/rvaoHSXDyHQ?si=l4-QShdFbxBLXvqb While not a piece of armor, prayer is mentioned immediately after the Armor of God as the means by which one activates and sustains their spiritual defenses. Because the crown chakra represents spiritual connection and enlightenment, we can draw a parallel as each involves seeking a connection with the divine. One could also associate the Helmet of Salvation with the Crown chakra based on not only the location but because the Helmet includes pleading the blood of Jesus over the mind so that no negative, doubting or impure thoughts would enter. The Helmet also protects you from allowing the enemy to get a foothold in your thought life. The Crown Chakra and the Helmet of Salvation serve as gateways to higher realms of understanding and act as sources of strength and guidance in navigating life's challenges. Both prayer and the Helmet of Salvation allows a deeper access and connection to the Holy Spirit. The crown chakra can also be related to the whole concept of putting on the full armor of God, which signifies our complete surrender to God's will and protection in our lives. When focusing on the Crown Chakra, one may experience a sense of unity with the world, a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things, and a heightened sense of spiritual awareness. In many ways, the Crown Chakra can be seen as the pinnacle of spiritual evolution no matter what one’s belief system may be, it can represent the ultimate goal of self-realization and oneness with the/their divine. Being dressed in the full Armor of God ensures our complete (nothing missing, nothing broken) protection from the Lord. Each morning choose to fully embody this precious armor we have been given to withstand life’s battles; the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit - all vital to live in Christ’s victory! When you consciously embody the Full Armor of God, you’re able to navigate the battles of life with God’s love, grace, and courage, knowing that you are spiritually fortified and God has overcome this world. I’ve said these things to you so that you will have peace in me. In the world you have distress. But be encouraged! I have conquered the world.” John 16:33, CEB Dressed in full armor, you can rest assured that the Lord is fighting on your behalf and no matter the battle, you will stand victorious in the face of your defeated enemies. After learning about each piece of the armor and why God specifically gifted each of us with the pieces, as an act of thankfulness and gratitude, enter into His Presence with holistic prayer and worship. YogaFaith is ‘Whole Worship.’ As Luke wrote, “ For in Him we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28), and Mark 12:30 says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” When embodying the Full Armor of God, imagine your whole body (heart, soul, mind and strength) worshiping the Lord. You are alive because God has divinely protected you. The Armor protects you and is your weapon against warfare. As you wholly worship Him, imagine a beautiful divine dance, flowing in His grace.

Embodying the Full Armor Sword of the Spirit // Third Eye (Brow) Chakra https://yogafaith.org The Sword of the Spirit represents the Word of God, while the brow or third eye chakra is associated with intuition and insight. These can be compared in that spiritual insight and discernment are needed to "rightly divide the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15). The Word of God is the believer’s blueprint for everyday life. It is essential in our Christian walk and what the Lord has given us so that we would know Him. The sword of the Spirit is vital to live a victorious Christian life. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people. Ephesians 1:18 This Chakra is associated with the brain, eyes, ears, nose, and pineal gland and is thought to be the center of our intuition. It is related to the act of seeing, both physically and intuitively. It awakens our understanding and allows us to see clearly and have a healthy perspective on life. I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. Ecclesiastes 3:10–12 We may not always know the answer or be able to see the full scope of what lies ahead, but the Word of God contains every answer for our life, therefore, we only need to know the One that knows the answers. I refer to the Brow Chakra as my “Holy Spirit intuition.” Embodied Practice Song: Heroes by Amanda Cook Flow / Postures: Flow freely - if desired, focus on the head, arms, shoulders and upper body areas by practicing postures such as: Son Salutations Seated or Table top Cat-Cows Fish Inversions Arm Balances Child’s Form with a block on the brow bone, massage left to right Resting Angel See also Suggested Embodied Flow 1 and 2 Cards Breath Prayer / Affirmation (Can be done with hands on the area): The Lord is directing my pathway. He gives me clarity and vision. Memorize or Meditation: I the Lord, reveal myself to them in visions, I speak to them in dreams. Num. 12:6 // The Lord answered me; write down this vision clearly, inscribe it on tablets so one may easily read it. Hab. 2:2

Helmet of Salvation // Throat Chakra https://yogafaith.org/yogafaith-university/ The Helmet of Salvation is worn on the head as a means to protect the entire face, mouth, eyes, ears, the entire head and the mind, which is vital for the protection of our thoughts, casting down strongholds and arguments contrary to the Lord (2 Cor. 10:3-5), as well as keeping our eargate/eyegate/mouthgate safe from the enemy’s attacks. The Helmet of Salvation, as we previously read, protects our thoughts and the words that come from our mouth based on our thoughts and beliefs. This helmet keeps the mind renewed and set on God, as well as our mouth from speaking anything unwholesome. Our mouth is to be used for the building and edifying of Christ and one another. The mouthpiece is for clear communication and expression of our faith and identity in Christ. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words. Proverbs 18:21, AMP The Throat Chakra is located in the center of the neck. It is related to communication and self-expression while corresponding to the thyroid, trachea, throat, mouth as well as the inner man and one’s creative identity. The Helmet of Salvation can also be related to the Crown Chakra and our intimate connection and relationship with each part of the Trinity. You want to protect your relationship with God the Father, Jesus Christ His Son, as well as His Holy Spirit. How can we hear from God if we do not take time to open our ears and listen? How will we know what to speak and share with others if we are not asking Him to put words in our mouth, show us the way, or speak into our hearts and minds? Along with the other pieces of the armor, we stand in our faith protected from fiery darts, able to safeguard and communicate our faith with others in a clear and objective manner. Give ear and come to me; listen, that you may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David. Isaiah 55:3 Communication and spiritual protection are the common themes that run throughout the Throat Chakra and the Helmet of Salvation. Just as the Throat Chakra governs self-expression and clear communication, the Helmet of Salvation represents the safeguarding of one's thoughts and beliefs. Both serve to protect and empower one’s spiritual journey and promote a sense of divine guidance and purpose. Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? Mark 8:18 Some will never be able to perceive what the Lord is saying and doing; they physically and spiritually cannot hear. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see. They have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths. Psalm 135:16–17 The enemy attacks your throat like no other location. If someone told you as a child to only speak if you're spoken to, or you’ve learned that you have nothing important to say, perhaps you clam up in front of others, God needs you to start speaking up. I realize that what I’m asking you to do can be extremely uncomfortable, but I would never ask you something that I haven’t done or that I don’t know intimately—your voice box can build the Kingdom and point to Christ; this is why it gets so attacked. You can also create healing songs, tonal sounds, and vibrations internally or bless a room full of people. It’s time for you to sing a new song, even if you consider it to be only a “joyful noise.” God needs you to start speaking up. 2024 Copyright, Michelle Thielen, All Rights Reserved

Shield of Faith // Heart Chakra The Shield of Faith can be associated with the heart chakra as both relate to love, compassion, and acceptance. This chakra is also related to our identity / identity in Christ and who He says that we are. The Heart Chakra is located at the center of the chakra system and represents the bridge between the lower chakras (associated with material existence) and the upper chakras (associated with spirituality). It is also related to our [core] identity and self acceptance. Regions that correspond to this chakra are the respiratory system, specifically lungs and heart, as well as the shoulders, ribs, breast and diaphragm. The Heart Chakra is the wellspring of love, compassion, and joy. It governs our relationships and our ability to give and receive love unconditionally. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 The Shield of Faith is a means of protection against "the fiery darts of the wicked one". Our shield is not a passive defense but an active one, representing our trust and confidence in God. It is through faith that we are able to deflect doubts, fears, temptations, accusations, and remain steadfast in our walk with Christ. This faith emanates from our core being, much like the strength of a warrior depends on the integrity of their shield in battle. The Shield of Faith can protect against offense (the bait of satan), bitterness or unforgiveness, while drawing us toward postures of love and forgiveness. Because these things can cause brokenness or a broken heart, this area can also be associated with the Breastplate of Righteousness, which protects our heart from Satan's vicious attacks. A portion form Embodying the Full Armor, A Journey Through the Armor of God and the Chakra System. All rights reserved Michelle Thielen, 2024

Shield of Faith // Heart Chakra https://yogafaith.org The Shield of Faith can be associated with the heart chakra as both relate to love, compassion, and acceptance. This chakra is also related to our identity / identity in Christ and who He says that we are. The Shield of Faith is a means of protection against "the fiery darts of the wicked one". Our shield is not a passive defense but an active one, representing our trust and confidence in God. It is through faith that we are able to deflect doubts, fears, temptations, accusations, and remain steadfast in our walk with Christ. This faith emanates from our core being, much like the strength of a warrior depends on the integrity of their shield in battle. The Shield of Faith can protect against offense (the bait of satan), bitterness or unforgiveness, while drawing us toward postures of love and forgiveness. Because these things can cause brokenness or a broken heart, this area can also be associated with the Breastplate of Righteousness, which protects our heart from Satan's vicious attacks. The Heart Chakra is located at the center of the chakra system and represents the bridge between the lower chakras (associated with material existence) and the upper chakras (associated with spirituality). It is also related to our [core] identity and self acceptance. Regions that correspond to this chakra are the respiratory system, specifically lungs and heart, as well as the shoulders, ribs, breast and diaphragm. The Heart Chakra is the wellspring of love, compassion, and joy. It governs our relationships and our ability to give and receive love unconditionally. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 I think this may be the most powerful energy center that God created in our bodies because it is related to love, and God is Love. He has created us to love deeply, feel compassion and empathy, and be as gracious and loving to others as He has been toward us. When our heart is healthy, and we realize our true identity in Christ, we have a peace that passes all understanding and a joy that this world cannot give nor take away! When our heart gets broken, jaded, or offended, or soul ties from sexual sin remain; if it holds onto bitterness and unforgiveness, you’ll either delay, or halt, your destiny. Guard your heart above all else for it is the wellspring of life! (Proverbs 4:23) Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11 Our thoughts, emotions, and actions are all powered by love, so we want to continually check in with our heart and make sure we are keeping it clear of all junk. If there be any walls built around it, any bitterness, offenses, unforgivenesses, we must daily bring these to the foot of the cross, renew our mind and cleanse our heart. And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. 1 John 4:21 Both the Shield of Faith and the Heart Chakra emphasize the importance of being centered and grounded in one's core values. They speak to a sense of inner peace and assurance that allows one to engage with the external world without being overcome by its challenges. In the midst of spiritual warfare or life's turbulence, both faith and love serve as anchors, providing strength and resilience. Each encourages the cultivation of a strong, protected, and open heart — one that can face adversity without losing its capacity to love, trust, and remain connected to Christ and...Join YogaFaith University today.

The Shield of Faith can be associated with the heart chakra as both relate to love, compassion, and acceptance. This chakra is also related to our identity / identity in Christ and who He says that we are. The Shield of Faith is a means of protection against "the fiery darts of the wicked one". Our shield is not a passive defense but an active one, representing our trust and confidence in God. It is through faith that we are able to deflect doubts, fears, temptations, accusations, and remain steadfast in our walk with Christ. This faith emanates from our core being, much like the strength of a warrior depends on the integrity of their shield in battle. The Shield of Faith can protect against offense (the bait of satan), bitterness or unforgiveness, while drawing us toward postures of love and forgiveness. Because these things can cause brokenness or a broken heart, this area can also be associated with the Breastplate of Righteousness, which protects our heart from Satan's vicious attacks. The Heart Chakra is located at the center of the chakra system and represents the bridge between the lower chakras (associated with material existence) and the upper chakras (associated with spirituality). It is also related to our [core] identity and self acceptance. Regions that correspond to this chakra are the respiratory system, specifically lungs and heart, as well as the shoulders, ribs, breast and diaphragm. The Heart Chakra is the wellspring of love, compassion, and joy. It governs our relationships and our ability to give and receive love unconditionally. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 I think this may be the most powerful energy center that God created in our bodies because it is related to love, and God is Love. He has created us to love deeply, feel compassion and empathy, and be as gracious and loving to others as He has been toward us. When our heart is healthy, and we realize our true identity in Christ, we have a peace that passes all understanding and a joy that this world cannot give nor take away! When our heart gets broken, jaded, or offended, or soul ties from sexual sin remain; if it holds onto bitterness and unforgiveness, you’ll either delay, or halt, your destiny. Guard your heart above all else for it is the wellspring of life! (Proverbs 4:23) Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11 Our thoughts, emotions, and actions are all powered by love, so we want to continually check in with our heart and make sure we are keeping it clear of all junk. If there be any walls built around it, any bitterness, offenses, unforgiveness, we must daily bring these to the foot of the cross, renew our mind and cleanse our heart. And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. 1 John 4:21 Both the Shield of Faith and the Heart Chakra emphasize the importance of being centered and grounded in one's core values. They speak to a sense of inner peace and assurance that allows one to engage with the external world without being overcome by its challenges. In the midst of spiritual warfare or life's turbulence, both faith and love serve as anchors, providing strength and resilience. Each encourages the cultivation of a strong, protected, and open heart — one that can face adversity without losing its capacity to love, trust, and remain connected to Christ and to others. Copyright 2024; Michelle Thielen for YOGAFAITH all rights reserved.

Shoes of Peace and Solar Plexus Embodying the Full Armor Shoes of the Gospel of Peace // Solar Plexus Chakra The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace correspond to the Solar Plexus Chakra because of the importance to be grounded in the Gospel of peace and progressively move towards peace with self and others whenever possible. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18, AMP The Lord has blessed each of us with supernatural gifts that are the center (the core) of who we are in Him. When we truly know our identity in Him and why He created us, we can live with a profound peace. This life force epicenter is also known as the Power Chakra. It is located in the solar plexus (deep in the belly) and is associated with governing our personal power, will, autonomy, as well as our digestion and metabolism. It’s your core - your authentic, true self and what makes you, you. It beckons the following questions: What is at your core center? What do you love to do? What would you be doing right now if money wasn’t an issue? I pray there is a fire in your belly that God begins to fan, because living from this place will bring you the peace that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:7). Finding your God-given purpose by applying the dreams - the ‘fire in your belly,’ will lead to a life of peace where you dwell in your sweet spot. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Ephesians 3:19, NLT Both the Solar Plexus Chakra and the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace symbolize inner strength, confidence, and a sense of purpose. The Solar Plexus Chakra is associated with ego, personal power and self-esteem, while the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace represent the readiness to spread goodwill and harmony in the world. Both provide a sense of purpose, spiritual readiness and assurance while being a strong foundation for navigating battles with courage and resilience. Just as the Solar Plexus Chakra empowers one to take action and stand firm in their beliefs, the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace enable believers to walk confidently and peacefully in their God-given destiny! Embodied Practice Song: Holy Spirit You are Welcome Here by Brian and Katie Torwalt Flow / Postures: Flow freely - if desired, focus on the feet and the core by practicing postures such as: Standing Postures, specifically Warrior Postures Boat or Canoe Bridge and/or Wheel, perhaps flowing between the two Knees to Chest into Bridge, flow as many times as needed Pronated Backbends such as Bow or Rocking Horse Legs Up the Wall Resting Angel Breath Prayer / Affirmation (Can be done with hands on the area): God has blessed me with supernatural gifts. Memorize or Meditation: I want to remind you to stir into flame the strength and boldness that is in you, that entered into you when I laid my hands upon your head and blessed you. 2 Tim. 1:6, TLB

Breastplate of Righteousness and Sacral Chakra Embodying the Full Armor Breastplate of Righteousness // Sacral Chakra The Breastplate of Righteousness, protects the heart and vital organs. It could be likened to maintaining purity and moral integrity through God in one's relationships and emotional connections. When I place the Breastplate of Righteousness on each morning, yes, I know that it protects my heart from the fiery darts, but I also praise God that it is protecting those things that He placed in my heart such as the dreams and creative gifts He has blessed me with. I spend time thanking Him for these gifts and that He has created one of the largest pieces of armor to protect the most important organ, my heart, and the seat of my soul. Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 4:23, AMP The Sacral Chakra is located in the abdomen, lower back, and sexual organs. This powerful God-given life center relates to emotions, relations, and sexuality. It connects us to others through feeling, desire, sensation, and movement. It brings us fluidity, grace, depth of feeling, fulfillment, and the ability to accept change. This life center is also associated with water because of the elements of fluidity and grace. Allow the Lord’s grace to rest upon you and then flow through you upon others. A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another....” John 13:34. Embodied Practice Song: At the Cross by Chris Tomlin or Hillsong Flow / Postures: Flow freely - if desired, focus on the chest and core, specifically the heart and gut areas where the breastplate would be by practicing postures such as: Any revolved postures (Supine, seated, inverted or standing), focus on one posture and then practice the revolved version (See Suggested Embodied Flow Card 1) Legs up the Wall alternating between pointed and flexed feet Reclining Pigeon to Revolved Reclining Pigeon Practice kegels Any heart openers such as Sphinx, Cobra or Upward Facing Dog (or a flow including all of them) Warrior II, Side Angle, Revolved Side Angle Triangle, Revolved Triangle Camel, Rabbit or Child’s Form in stillness (checking in with your [core] self) Breath Prayer / Affirmation (Can be done with hands on the area): My soul is refreshed and restored. Forgiveness over flowers for myself and others. Memorize or Meditation: As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. Psalm 42:1, NIV. 2024© Copyright Michelle Thielen, all rights reserved.

An Introduction; An Embodiment of God's Divine Protection Embodying the Full Armor; A Journey Through The Armor Of God And The Chakra System In the practice of YogaFaith, worshiping the Lord is a whole body experience (Matt. 22:37, Act 17:28, Mark 12:20). We are to present ourselves as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to the Lord (Rom. 12:1). In Psalms 139 we read how God has made us wonderfully and intricately, woven us together in our mother’s womb before there were even days (Psalm 139:16). Our body is a living, breathing, miracle. The Holy Spirit hovered over our nostrils and breathed life so that we would become a living soul (Genesis 2:7), setting humans apart from any other creation. There are many scholars, physicians, and psychologists that do an incredible job at understanding our body and mind. However, because humans are finite, attempting to explain an infinite creation isn’t always possible. Eastern philosophy explores energy centers as the Chakra System, each epicenter of energy represents a host of elements, including colors, musical notes, internal organs and more. There are hundreds of energy centers in the body, but the Chakra System focuses on 7 main centers. These energy epicenters are large bundles of nerves that can get unbalanced, blocked, or carry heavy spiritual warfare because the body holds vast wisdom and it remembers. As Christ followers we want to represent Christ well - our body, mind, and spirit should honor and glorify Him. Christians should desire to create health from the inside-out, ensuring that all our systems are balanced and functioning in the perfection that God created them to function. …first clean the inside of the cup and of the plate [examine and change your inner self to conform to God’s precepts], so that the outside [your public life and deeds] may be clean also. Matt. 23:26, AMP Let’s explore some parallels from the Armor of God with our intricate God-given energy centers. While these two subjects come from very different cultural and religious backgrounds, they should be approached with respect within their unique contexts, however, it is possible to draw parallels between them as a means of exploring and understanding the underlying human desires for spiritual connection, health and protection. 2024© Copyright Michelle Thielen, all rights reserved.