But The Lord....

Psalm 94:22 "But The Lord is my Defense; and my God is The Rock of my refuge."

Such confidence in this scripture. "But The Lord IS..." Ha! We can honestly stop right there because those few words are enough to end any doubt that may occur in our feeble minds. The word "but" is usually after a statement indicating that there is a change in circumstances. In this particular passage, the writer is indicating that even though there are people who plot against you or seek your misfortune that it doesn't matter because God IS. God is El Shaddai. God is Jehovah Jireh. God is a PRESENT Help. God is my Supply. God is my Love. God is my Defense. Anyone need God to fight for them in certain situations or a current situation? Frankly I need Him to fight for me in every situation in life because His Defense is better than mines any day.

Everyone experiences trouble at some time or another. It seems like now trouble is increasing at rapid speed. Every day throughout the day there are numerous stories of gruesome deaths. Even in our own lives I'm sure most can attest that each week may bring about a new trouble because we are getting closer to Jesus return. Although trouble is increasing, it doesn't mean God is slacking. In all that we go through, it is imperative that we remember that God still is, God! A few verses up, it captures how God quickly comes to the rescue of David. The psalmist knew Who to call on and trusted God to deliver Him and God did just that. Anyone that feels they are in danger does not call upon someone they think that can rescue them, but boldly KNOWS the person they call is equipped to deliver. That's the same way we should be as people of God. David was experiencing trouble, hurt, and deep in countless thoughts. God delivered Him from people and from his own thoughts. Has God stood at your defense against your own thoughts? How many times did you want to give up? On a task, a person, ministry, school, a job, or life in general? We wrestle with so much on a daily basis that satan can make giving up look pretty good, BUT God IS! It doesn't matter how many  shots are being fired because God protects us each time even from ourselves.

It only gets greater at the end because it says, "The Rock of my refuge." A refuge is nothing more than a place to take shelter from danger. By the scripture stating that God is The Rock of my refuge, simply means He is my escape. He is my safe haven. I wouldn't have a refuge if it was not for The Lord. A rock is known for its firmness, stability, and ability to prop weaker items up. So as you go into your safe place which is in God, He is in turn holding you up after satan has beaten you, mistreated you, abused you, and used you. What a God! My mind can't fathom Him doing all of that at one time, but He does it every day! Just like Him being a Wheel in the middle of a wheel. He is our Defense, our Rock, and our Safe Haven. It is #FreedomFriday feel free to run to God in your times of trouble and despair & tell the devil, "but The Lord IS..." Enjoy your weekend! 

Wake Up!!!

John 11:44 "And he who had died came out bound hand and foot in grave clothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them "loose him and let him go"

One of the many things we (Marissa and I) say in regards to our spiritual walk is that we "Die to self, daily". This statement, like many others, is easier said than done in that I still struggle with my own fleshly desires. Desires that aren't of God, which I've learned to realize is normal. To die to self is to live in Christ. We have two choices, we either die in sin or live in Christ. Of course, the latter seems like the obvious choice; however, it's not highly chosen.

Looking at this text we see a man, whom is a close friend of Jesus, that has been dead for days. Martha, Lazarus' sister had been calling for Jesus to come save her brother long before his death; however, Jesus wasn't in a rush to get there. It's obvious that Jesus knew there was purpose in the death of Lazarus. Fast forward to present day, some of us choose to be dead [in sin] because we don't know what else to be. We feel that because of our sin we are not worthy of coming into the presence of Christ. We don't think Christ will forgive us because we can't forgive ourselves. We believe that Christ can't love us because we don't love ourselves. Now, I'm not saying Lazarus died because of sin because I don't know the details of his death this is just a parallel to the scripture.

So, stop feeling sorry for yourself and start believing in God which will in turn cause you to believe in yourself. WAKE UP, COME FORTH and recognize that you have purpose. I'm a firm believer that what we consider as flaws are actually vehicles that God has given us to deliver His Word. The same concept can be applied to sin. Jesus didn't show up when Lazarus was dying because He knew that He had to die in order to live (just as Jesus did when He died on Calvary). But when the time was right God showed up revealing that the purpose of Lazarus' death was so that Christ could be glorified.

Lazarus was surrounded by those who believed and they didn't give up on Him when He couldn't help himself. Even after he was deep in the grave they held on to their faith and belief that Jesus had the power to do all things. Make sure you have those kind of people around you. People that are there even when you are deep in sin they still believe that God is God and He can do all things. Don't miss your wake up call. Be ready to come forth when your name is called. All the bondages will be broken God will be glorified.

Who do I trust?

Psalm 71:1 "In You, O Lord, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion." 

We are living in a time where it is so easy to get an unwanted opinion. Dr. Phil has something to say. Oprah wants us to ask Iyanla to fix our lives. Chris Brown wants us to believe that women are no longer loyal. The media portrays a police officer doing his job in Ferguson when he obviously committed murder. All of this can be very overwhelming. When I was growing up, which wasn't that long ago, did not have as many influences. There are so many occurrences in this era of life that makes people question who to trust or what to trust. So the scriptures states, "In You Oh Lord do I put my trust..."

If we are trusting God, our wisdom will increase. How? Well, in order to trust someone we must know enough about them to relinquish such respect and high regard. Naturally we can't trust someone we know nothing about or that we feel is not deserving of such honor. Would you trust a mechanic with your life savings? Or perhaps an accountant with changing your oil? No, you will trust the person who is suited and well knowledgeable about the job at hand. So, why are we so untrusting when it comes to God? Has He not shown Himself worthy of ALL of our trust? Not only has He created our lives, but sacrificed His Seat in Heaven to not just live among us, but like us. He felt what we feel now, the hurt, pain, joy, and sorrow that life comes with day to day. How can we not trust The ONLY Person Who has our back TOTALLY. How much does God have to do to gain our trust? He saved us from hell, HELL, yet we doubt how our bills will get paid, when will we get a promotion, just insert your doubts that you have. God IS taking care of you, me, us. It may not seem like He is because of what was said at the latter end of the verse, confusion.

I personally hate confusion. It is a toxic spirit that can cause havoc in families, churches, friendships, and relationships. There have been deadly misunderstandings because of the spirit of confusion. What has confusion done in your life? Has it helped any? I'm pretty sure the answer is a big fat, NO. Confusion creeps in when trouble begins. It is satan's go to tactic. If Eve was trusting God like she was suppose to, satan couldn't have confused her like he did and Eve would not have confused Adam which led to life as we know it now until Jesus returns. See how deadly confusion can be and what not trusting God can do? Satan confused them right out of perfection. What is he talking you out of? Is he talking you out of your faith? You were bought with a Price. Your faith is not built on "happy days" but The Blood of Jesus. If The Son of God suffered, how do you expect to live life squeaky clean? He already saved us from hell. What more can we ask for or doubt God for? He said He will never forsake us. David said, He has never seen God's people forsaken. I know I haven't seen God turn His back on His people in my short years on this earth. Even when I wasn't living for Him, He was loving me which I'm sure He did for you. If He loved you when you were a sinner, how much more as His child? So be free from confusion. I don't care what bad news you received this week or in general, God is still the same. Since He is still the same, our trust should not waver but increase. How does it increase? By getting in The Word and communing with Him. Don't just depend on the pastor, mid week Bible study, or this blog. Search the scriptures for yourself because I can very well make a mistake, but His Word is Perfect and Sure each time. It's #FreedomFriday  Enjoy your weekend and keep trusting in God. It'll pay off after while.

But, is it you?

James 3:5 "Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth"

The tongue in and of itself cannot destroy you; however, when used as a vehicle to deliver a message it can be powerfully destructive. Depending on past or current situations one could get so many different messages from this scripture, which is one of the things I love about the Word. When first reading this, many may recount an instance or moment in life where something was said to them that cut deeply. So deep that it possibly ruined or drastically altered the dynamic of a relationship, friendship, or kinship. On the contrary, reading this may spark a moment of remembrance where you yourself have said something that cut someone else deeply, altering the way they view you and your character. Either way we can somehow relate to what is being said here; however, I want to view it a little differently today.

Have you ever said something to or about yourself that cut deeply? Have you ever been found talking yourself out of your blessings? Have you ever felt like you don't deserve God's best? What about all of the damaging things we think and say about ourselves that affect our daily life. I'll be the first to say not a day goes by that I don't discredit myself in some way. From feeling like I am damaged goods to thinking I'm not smart enough to succeed academically/professionally to even thinking I'm not anointed enough to continue writing this blog. I don't think any of us realize how our own tongue could be the one that is destroying us. We are sometimes our own worst enemy making the devil's fight a little less challenging.

Power is defined as the possession of controlling influence; therefore, being powerful could be both negative or positive. Similarly, how you view this scripture could be optimistically or pessimistically. For example, I can use my tongue as a vehicle to deliver a powerful uplifting message OR I can use my tongue as a vehicle to deliver a powerful character assassinating message. No matter what way it is used the tongue is still powerful; therefore, we must decide the type of power that rolls off of it. Just as the tongue is small and powerful we too are small and powerful. It is easy to trick ourselves into thinking the we are too small of a person to be a powerful tool in the lives of others. As long as we have a tongue we have power. The power to speak life into a dead situation, the power to encourage ourselves and others, the power to speak up about the God we serve, the power to speak calm to the storms in our lives, and etc.

How are you using the power of your tongue? To destroy yourself and others or to encourage yourself and others? It's #MotivationalMonday try to motivate someone today or even yourself if that's what is necessary. #FearlessFAITH

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall

Acts 10:34 "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:"

Ever compared yourself to anyone? Unfortunately, this happens all the time. In order for some to feel better about themselves, they feel the need to compare their lives with others. What about relationships? It was never God's intentions for us to be serial daters. By us having numerous relationships, some if not all may start to compare the present one with the previous one. Does not take a scientist to figure out that is a disastrous idea. Why, you ask? God never compares Sally to Sue. Sally is no better than Sue because He made them with the same intentions, to live for Him. If anything His only perception of us is to model His Son, not Wille Mae's son.

So, you see your ex out and about with a new person. What do you say to yourself? "He ain't me." "She isn't cuter than me." "Oh, look it's Bill; He looks happy." You can probably guess which phrase is the more appropriate one out the selection. The first two went straight into comparison mode. Something we all tend to do without even thinking about it. For what? We must ask ourselves why is it so necessary in our minds to compare looks, money, jobs, houses, hair, skin, etc...to others? It makes no sense. Then we have some stunningly misinformed Christians who think comparing sins is righteous. Point being, "Sally curses; she ain't saved." Meanwhile, you partake in over eating. You are over weight and not trying to take care of yourself which is also a sin. Our bodies are temples of The Lord not only smoking, excessive drinking, and drugs can cause harm, what we feed our bodies can work against us too. But that's another post. Just a quick scenario to get us to understand that it is useless to compare lives because we ALL have something God deeply needs to change in our lives.

So why do we compare ourselves to people? Maybe because it is easier and an ego stroker. The truth of the matter is, as Christians our goal is to be like Christ, not Sally or Jim. Putting ourselves up against another filthy rag does nothing for our walk with Him. When we realize who we are in Christ, He will reveal how unnecessary it is to compare because of how much He cares for us! We get the understanding to model perfection and not His other creations, perfection being Jesus. Don't compare sins. Allow God in(your heart) so He can free you from your bad habits. Don't envy another's life. Be happy for them. When God blesses someone that's a rejoicing moment. We all are blessed. If you're waiting on a specific blessing, hating on someone else is not going to speed it up. So, mirror mirror on the wall, God doesn't compare and neither should y'all. Wait, not excluding myself just wanted to rhyme:) Enjoy your weekend.

Change Happens

Change is inevitable. Some may look at it as negative where some may look at it as positive either way change happens. Perhaps it may be better to look at change as a glass half full versus a glass half empty because although situations seem bad they'll work out for your good (and that's the Word). Why is change necessary? The world constantly changes; therefore, you must constantly change. Worldly changes affects how the devil attacks you, but it doesn't change why he attacks nor does it change the outcome of God's plan for you. One thing that is comforting is the One person that will never change, God; however, he does sometimes cause change.

Everyone that is instrumental in the Bible went through some type of change once God stepped on the scene; whether it has been within themselves or just a change in environment. Moses was called out of his comfortable environment on a journey to a new place; he constantly experienced change within himself and the scenery. Job experience change in that he had once been a rich, healthy man but was changed into a poor ill man. David was changed from nobody into somebody. And here we have Paul, on his journey to shut down the chatter of Jesus Christ and Jesus appeared before Him and completely changed him; name included.

Let's not cringe at the idea of change, but instead welcome it because change is good no matter what it looks like. We're all on a life journey, as Saul was, be ready for a change when God steps on the scene. Change is growth so when God changes your situation don't hesitate, just go with it. Trust Him, that's one aspect of our faith that we have to constantly remind ourselves to do. If you're in a bad situation today just know that change happens and you could very well be in a better situation tomorrow. Contrary to that, if you're in a good situation today change happens and you could very well be in a worse situation tomorrow. Neither of us is exempt to change nor can we change change, but we can change how we experience it. Change doesn't change the fact that God is God and He is in control. Change just happens!

None Else!

1 Kings 8:60 "That all the people of the earth may know that The Lord is God, and that there is none else." 

The Lord is God, and there is none else. That is a powerful ending to that verse. It is so simple yet, so profound. I believe sometimes we lose track of Who God is and what He is capable of doing for each and everyone of us. God is able to supply all of our needs Phillipians 4:19. Our God does not put us on a waiting list because He is too busy, He does it to increase our faith in Him and our growth in Him. He is not some genie that gives us three wishes that suddenly are granted at our beckon call. How is that Faith being applied that we so joyously sing about every Sunday if it were that easy? Genies are mythical, my God is REAL. So we have to be REAListic when it comes to our walk with Christ. Everything will not go our way, but all things are working in our favor( Romans 8:28).

I started with the ending of that verse and want to revert back to the beginning, "That all the people of the earth may know." How is your witness? Do you live for all to know you are saved or just the people on social media? Is your lifestyle catered to The Word of God outside the House of God? In the prior scriptures, Solomon sets up a blueprint on how someone will be able to identify that we are of Christ. In verse 58 he reminds us that God must first have our hearts before we begin to keep His commands. If God does not have our hearts then our so called work for Him is in vain. You have to love what you do in order to be good at it. People can tell when we are faking and putting on a show. Many try to do the work of God without realizing we are unable to work for Him in our own strength. Ending that same verse Solomon states that it was a command to follow His instructions for us.

We don't have the authority to pick and choose when we will read God's Word or live by His standards. During salvation we gave up all rights to God, acknowledging that He can lead us better than any other. So we go back to He is God alone! There is no one like Him. I know there are some Buddhist, Muslims, etc..,but ask them will they die for you? Buddha can't die because it is man made. It is not a living organism. Muhammad is dust just like me. So, I know he can't save me. What I do know is The God I choose to serve is THE ONLY GOD. You think all this "just happened?" Trees, matter, electrons, air, just appeared from a Big Bang? No, it was God Who created ALL. We can't understand it because man had nothing to do with it. Everyone likes an original. You know something rare, precious, that you are unable to find anywhere else. My relationship with God is precious to me because I can't find that Love anywhere. It can't be bought or traded. He is truly like no other I have or will ever come in contact with. It's #ThankfulThursday.  How many are thankful that there is none else like God? Take time out not just today, but every day to appreciate the rare privilege to know Jesus. 

Thru the Fire

Isaiah 64:8 "But now, O LORD, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our Potter; And all we are the word of Your hand."

What are the thoughts you have of yourself? Are there any features/imperfections that you would like to change? I'm certain I can rattle off a long list of things I wish I could change about myself. However, I have learned to accept myself for who God has made me to be and embrace it. As I've said before our imperfections are what make us unique and could very well be what sets us apart to be used for the good of the Kingdom. Also, we must be careful how we criticize ourselves and our flaws because in a sense we are criticizing the work of God's mighty hand. God took the time to individually mold each and everyone of us.

Ceramic pottery is one of the most beautiful work of arts you'll ever see, but it doesn't start out that way (there is a process). In fact, the beautiful pottery starts out as clay (mud) yet through the kneading process, molding, flaming, painting, then flaming again a beautiful piece of pottery is produced. The kneading process is crucial to the molding process in that the kneading toughens the clay up preparing it for the molding process. After being worked and molded the clay is fixed at a high temperature of about 850 degrees. It is after this first flame that the finishing touches are painted only for this true beauty to be revealed after more high heat.

So, clay (like us) starts out weak and easily transforms. Once it goes through the heat (troubles, tough times, etc.) it comes out solid and strong (like us). Still after that there is more to the process that includes more heat (troubles, rough conditions), but in the end a beautiful piece is made (you and I) and everything the clay went through was worth it. Just like each piece of custom made pottery we all have to go through the fire to solidify who/what God has molded us into to. Don't complain about the process, trust the process.

None of their business

Judges 14:6 "The Spirit of The Lord took control of him, and he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as he might have torn a young goat. But he did not tell his father or mother what he had done."

Here we have young Samson anointed by God, slaying this ferocious lion like it was nothing. I found it very odd that he did not seek to broadcast his actions to anyone especially his parents. This is a young man who easily took down a known vicious beast and said, nothing? Samson was not looking for accolades. He was just doing what God anointed him to do. That really stood out to me because when we do something that we perceive is great, we want nothing less of recognition and praise which kind of questions why are we really doing it? Anyhow, I'm not going to touch on that as much, but will explain how that was the launching pad of him keeping his business to himself as we all should practice.

Have you ever been burned by telling someone something that did not need to be shared? Many of us can probably agree that in some cases our mouths got us in some unnecessary trouble. It is great to share a testimony when God does something for you, but we must know when and when not to share or who to share it with. Yes, even with your family as it was shown in the scripture may not need to know everything God has anointed you to do. Why? Well some may see what God is doing and some may not understand and cause you to doubt, be discouraged, or deny His Power in your life simply because they weren't blessed with what you are blessed with. Totally missing the fact that we all have hidden treasures, some people can get envious of your hidden treasure. I had to and still am learning who I share things with concerning my walk with Christ. Not trying to hide anything, but protect. It is so easy to be persuaded by people who are close to us than strangers. So when it comes to spiritual gifts, we must not take that lightly as far as wanting to tell everyone.

People are people. Meaning we are imperfect, mess up, and sin daily. Just because someone is close to you, does not mean they will understand everything God is using you to do. It is perfectly normal to get excited about what God is doing and want to urgently tell everyone, but it may not be any of their business. The "Kermit face" is rapidly being used on social media illustrating in different captions that certain things are not meant to be known by saying, "that's none of my business." Samson killing the beast foreshadowed him killing numerous men later on in the book of Judges. In turn him keeping his business to himself  at that time was inadvertently helping him continue to do so later when his haters wanted to know how he was so strong. Delilah, the lady he was in love with, did not know why he was so strong because it was none of her business until one day he gave in and you can read what happened in your own quiet time with God in Judges 16. It was a tragic ending, but does not have to be with us. We now have the knowledge and understanding that everyone does not need to know every single thing that goes on in our lives. Sharing unnecessary information can cause more harm than good. Be careful who you share things with and what you share. It might not be any of their business.

Main Line

Isaiah 30:21 "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left."

Remember the church song "Jesus is on the main line, tell Him; what you want, tell Him; what you want"? I'm fully aware that times have changed, but God hasn't. If Jesus was in fact on the main LINE waiting for us to tell Him what we want many of us would ignore the phone call. Some of us will miss out on what God is asking of us because instead of talking to God we're trying to TEXT Him. How many times has someone misinterpreted your text message? Similarly, our "text message" request to God has a chance of being misinterpreted because verbal communication is still the gold standard.

Last week, one of my friends posted a meme on Facebook showcasing the expression they give when they text someone then that person decides to call versus responding via text. Newsflash young people: EVERYTHING CAN NOT BE DISCUSSED and/or UNDERSTOOD THROUGH TEXT. Are you so busy that you can't take a moment to talk? It's actually more efficient to verbally communicate what you want and mean; it also saves time. How we communicate with each other effects how we communicate with God. Are you too busy to talk to Him too? I mean, is He not your friend as well? Jesus intercedes on our behalf; therefore, we have to make sure we clearly communicate with Him. Broken communication is often the main cause of broken hearts in broken relationships so let's keep this line of communication in tact.

Social media has indeed made us less social. Social media is arguably more convenient while simultaneously being detrimental to real life social interactions. People often use Facebook to confirm real life situations to be true versus taking a person's word for it. I've heard the phrase "Put it on Facebook, so I know it's real" far too many times to count. Also, it has become increasingly common for people to post their daily prayers on social media. In doing so more time goes into choosing the perfect words to increase "likes" and "shares" on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter than the actual sincerity of going before God in prayer. Prayer should come from the heart and flow freely without much thought. On the contrary, social media prayers are well thought out and often times tailored for the person posting it to get more glory than God thus being ineffective.

By no means am I saying not to mention God or your beliefs on social media; in fact, I encourage you to let it be known who your God is and what He can/will do. What I am saying is don't let social media be your main means of communication with God. Prayer should be intimate and nothing about social media is as such. Your ability to make your requests known to God is a direct correlation of the strength of your personal relationship with Him. Communication is Key.

So if you're wondering why God isn't texting you back, liking your Instagram post, or commenting on your Facebook status it's because He's calling you. Jesus is on the main line (the secure line), I encourage you to pick up and talk to Him. Everyone can't know what your next move is and surely you know everyone that is your Facebook "friend", Instagram/Twitter follower is NOT your friend. There is no need for God to showcase His plans for you amongst such an audience.

#FearlessFAITH #MotivationalMonday 

I Believe, YOU

Psalm 146:3 "Don't put your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help."

These days and times it is hard to believe anything someone has to say. Lies are quick to be told and telling the truth seems to be a thing of the past. Even with so much going on in the world around us, we still choose to believe in people. Is it because we are crazy? Why would we decide to still open our hearts, minds, and ears to people even after we have been wronged by others? Currently, my generation has been hurt so much that we take pride in cutting people off. I mean we boast about trust issues and not catching feelings as if it is a good thing. Only if we read more of The Word, we would then find healing and answers to these questions.

It is not crazy to trust again after being hurt because it is not man that we are solely trusting, but God. Now, I definitely agree not to trust everyone. However, we also should not let trusting the wrong people detour us from trusting the right people. Man, as in mankind will hurt, upset, and get on our nerves from time to time. That is inevitable because none of us are perfect. What we must do is ask God to discern which people are worth being upset with because we will be upset with someone one way or another. So, the scripture urges us not to put our trust in man. With the Ferguson issue and many other crisis, America tends to rely on the President more than Jesus. President Obama can't fix everything and he definitely is far from perfection. In good sense, it would be obvious to trust and depend on The ONLY Perfect Being we know, God. Everything God says is true whether we understand His Will or not. His Ways are not for us to understand, that's where Faith comes in because if we understood it, Faith would be no longer needed.

Life is like a test. In school, have you ever had a cheat sheet given to you not really knowing if the answers were correct? You just trusted that the person gave you correct information to pass. Now, I do not condone cheating, but if we can trust the person with a cheat sheet, why is it difficult to believe God? Here it is God gives us all the answers to life questions and we disregard His Word as if there is no truth in It. When we need help, where is man? It takes God to show us how to help one another because we are naturally selfish. Just as Kim stated, your fave celeb is not God. They do not care about you like you want to believe they do. Actually no one can care for you like God can. The more we get that in our spirit, the easier it is to believe in Him no matter what life may throw at us. Man is limited, but God is LIMITLESS. Who would you rather believe?

Let It Be Known

1 Kings 18:36 "And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word."

In case you haven't noticed the church and everything/everyone associated with it is under attack. Daily we experience tragedy in many areas of the world that leave people wondering. I've been asked, "Why does God let bad things happen?" "Are you sure God is real?" "Why do you believe?". I'll admit that I have had days where I've had questions on whether or not God cares, hears, and/or still works miracles. When you are saved and doubt begins to creep in that is a sign to immerse yourself in the Word because that is where you'll find ALL of your answers. Remember the Bible consists of historical religious encounters; however, it also foreshadows things to come. Everything that is happening HAS to happen to fulfill the prophecy so trust the process.

Many states have taken prayer out of the school. I recently read an article where a high school student got suspended for telling her classmate, who had sneezed, "bless you". In my place of employment we are not allowed to talk about religion nor can we say "Christmas" during the holiday season. The world is slowly trying to eliminate Christ and all He has done for us. The music industry wants to worship Jay-Z who has been nicknamed "Hova" as an abbreviation for Jehovah. Along with him we have Kanye West who now likes to be referred to as "Yeezus" believing himself to be synonymous to Jesus Christ. The artist that arguably has the largest following in this generation, Beyonce, has been referred to as god by her many fans and her daughter as Jesus. How crazy is all of that?

So, what is my point? Just as Elijah, we must let it be known who our God is, how real He is, and that He is still in the miracle working business. Challenge these people to call on the name of Jay-Z, Kanye, and Beyonce to see what miracles they can work for them. Social media seems to be engulfed with challenges lately so I challenge the fans of each of the artists mentioned here to cry out to their idols while we call out to our GOD. I can assure you neither of them is concerned about a personal relationship with you, providing for you, protecting you, comforting you, and whatever else you need God for.  Let it be known who you worship.

Your Past is Over

Psalm 103:12  "As far as the east is from the west so far has He removed our transgressions from us."

Are you living in your past? Are you allowing others to keep you in your past? Why? If God is willing to forgive you, why won't you forgive yourself? Why listen to the criticism of others when they need forgiveness themselves? On the flip side, are you holding people hostage by their past mistakes? These are questions that need to be asked because as Christians, some of us get too comfortable holding people back because of what we know they use to do. As Christians, we should get in the habit of encouraging people to be better as oppose to heckling people about their past or current situations. God always offers us a way out, a fresh start, a new beginning and that's exactly what we must exemplify to others.

Living in our past hinders us from blossoming into our future. Not accepting God's forgiveness demonstrates to Him that we are not appreciative of His forgiveness. It's like us telling God His Forgiveness isn't good enough which is untrue. When God forgives us, that's it! He has wiped our slates clean and is willing to give us a fresh start to do better. Why do we dwell on our past? One reason may be because others try to keep us there. Just because you may have been the wild child back in the day does not mean you have to be constantly reminded of that. It's good to look back on where God has brought you or laugh at foolish times but don't let people guilt you on what you USED to do when you are currently trying to do better. This is your relationship with Christ, it is not a group effort. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you to do better and people who are trying to go forward with you.

Satan is the king of accusations. He will do everything in his little power to keep us where we were and not where God is trying to take us. Hopefully you are not one of those people who holds on to someone's past because it actually speaks more about you than the other person. We all have a past, sin every day, & desperately need God's forgiveness. It is best to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling than act self righteous towards others. So the scripture states that as far as the east is from the west...meaning our sins are disconnected from us. No, it does not okay our sin, it means we are not condemned because of it. There are still consequences for our actions, but there is NO condemnation to them who are a part of Christ( Romans 8:1). Now the verse ends, He has removed our transgressions. They are gone, vanished, "now you see it, now you don't!" It's not magic; it's Love! His Love is powerful. So powerful that it can erase years worth of filth, shame, and guilt in a matter of seconds. It is #FreedomFriday. Remember that you are no longer a product of your past. God forgives you, forgive yourself, and walk in your newness! Also, don't hold others to their past or faults rather encourage them to be better, pray for them, and watch God move! Enjoy your weekend! 

Branch Out

John 15:5 "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing"

Have you ever planted a tree? I can remember as a child we had a beautiful tree outside of our house that we all loved. My grandfather randomly cut it down and I was so upset. A few days or weeks later my elementary school gave us trees to take home; of course, I planted that tree in the same exact spot and watched it grow. The tree that I planted was a piece of a bigger tree. With the strength and nutrients of the bigger tree my small piece was able to be planted and branch out on it's own; however, that big tree will always be the foundation of the small tree. Without the support and strength of the bigger tree my small piece would not have been able to grow and bear fruit.

This is a metaphor of our spiritual lives. Without the foundation that is Holy Spirit we would be nothing. We would lack the ability to grow spiritually and bear good fruit (the fruits of the Spirit). While walking in the Spirit we should change daily (for better). Just as a tree grows daily, beyond the sight of the naked eye, so should we. Trees grow up and out. They reach higher heights every day so why shouldn't we?

Growth comes from being nurtured, fed. Just as babies start out having to be fed by their parents we start out having to be fed spiritually. Eventually, babies mature enough to be able to feed themselves. Although the parents provide and prepare the food it is up to the child to consume it. The demand for food increases as the child matures. Were we not all once babes in Christ? Remember in the beginning when the food, that is the Word, came to you with little or no effort on your part? There will come a time when you have fend for yourself. Does that seem frightening? Are you afraid to branch out in fear of not being able to feed yourself. At some point you will have to branch out ( if you haven't already) to reach higher heights spiritually. You will have to read the Bible and allow the Holy Spirit to interpret it for you, you'll be your own prayer warrior, you'll lead your own Bible Study, and etc.

How will I know the right time to branch out? Ask yourself these two questions: Has God been increasingly "slow" to answer? Is He already completely silent? If God has been increasingly "slow" to answer perhaps He's pushing you out of the nest; teaching you to feed yourself. If God has gone completely silent He definitely wants you to do it on your own. These are good signs. It shows that God now trusts you to make decisions based off the foundation that He has laid within you. If it is our ultimate goal to be more Christ-like in our thinking and our being then we should be able to make trivial decisions without going to Him in prayer or fasting. We reserve those things for the bigger, more difficult things to come. So, branch out and learn to see yourself as God sees you. Strengthen your branch so that one day you can be the strength and support of another fruit bearing branch.      

Enjoy the ride

Today I would like to talk about patience. As I evaluate my life and observe the lives of others around me I see how the spirit of anxiety lives inside of us. We want everything now. It could possibly be because Sarah has her life together at 25, Sue feels like she should too. Then again, we could just solely be anxious. Most that I know rarely take account of the present as a gift from God. Mostly because we are too busy planning a better tomorrow that we forget to enjoy the now. Think about it. Growing up we wanted to rush our youth to be grown. Once entering the first stage of adulthood we want to retire. Once retired, I see many elders complain and want to go to Heaven not acknowledging the gift of life God has given them. At work is where I hear the most complaints from elders and God helps me remind them that it is a blessing to see that age because I have classmates that are dead. 

So why do we rush? There is nothing wrong with planning, but while doing so we must understand everything does not go exactly as planned. God is teaching me to enjoy what He has given me meaning not just resources, but life! Focus on the day God gives you and you would be amazed at how at ease you are during your day. Planning our future is wise, but we only can live for the day. So live! Never get so caught up thinking about your future that you are neglecting to be thankful for your present. We have to trust that God has our lives already planned out no matter how bleak the present may look. Talk to God, write your future out, pray, and enjoy the ride. Anytime you feel anxious, pray. Being anxious is a toxic spirit. It can permanently damage our ability to be thankful which is not good. Honestly, being anxious and complaining works hand and hand and God does not delight in complainers(1 Corinthians 10:10). 

During my Labor Day weekend, it was brought to my attention that I was speeding. I was told to "slow down and enjoy the ride," "you are going to get there," and "I'm right here with you." Funny because I heard that and now use that with my life. Not only do I have a problem speeding through traffic, but I also try to speed through life. Reason being for both is because I just want to get there not realizing how fast I go doesn't effect me getting "there." So when I was told that and while writing this post it hit me. God constantly tells me those same words every time I think about pressing the gas pedal of life in over drive. He says, "you are going to get there," "relax," and "I'm here." If you are like me, try to take a breather, put it in cruise control, and simply enjoy the ride. No need to rush what He has already destined to be so. #JustWaitOnIt  

What Would You Do?

Genesis 3:1 "Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?"

What if you had been in the Garden of Eden in place of Eve? Would you have fallen into the temptation of the serpent? OR Would you have been obedient to God? A few months ago this question was asked to me which triggered some critical thinking. Ultimately, I see this as foreshadowing for years to come in the lives of each and every one of us. Eve was tempted with something she knew she shouldn't have yet she takes it anyway thus having to suffer the consequences of her disobedience and sin.

This is an example of desiring more than what we need. Although God had given Adam and Eve everything they needed the serpent tricked her into wanting more. Today we live in a world of excess where "more is merrier" and "bigger is better" which has contorted what God wants us to know and believe. Let's not forget that God will supply all of our needs according to Philippians 4:19; therefore, we do not have to take things into our own hands as we often try to. You see what happens when we do that.

So, my response to that question in that moment was "I can't say what I would or would not have done during that day and age. However, I can say that there are many things that God has forbid me from doing that I have done. With that I can say that essentially I am my own version of Eve." For us, the forbidden fruit could be pre-marital sex, lies, drunkenness, and etc. Whatever you have done that you know is not of God is in fact forbidden fruit. Take a moment to think about all the forbidden fruit you have enjoyed. And yes, I say enjoyed because most of the time the devil will make the forbidden fruits seem like it was worth going against God. Furthermore, he needs it to be good so that you'll continue to seek after it. Be careful.

It seems to be second nature for us to wonder "What if" or "If it had not been for this that wouldn't have happened". Eve faced the consequences of her own sin. True we have inherited some of those consequences, but it's nothing that we have not adapted to in this new age. So, let's stop blaming Adam and Eve's mistake for our reckless behavior. It is not what they did that has us continually eaten the forbidden fruit that we have grown to love in the face of a forgiving God. We have become so lax with sin that we no longer fear nor acknowledge the consequences that come along with it.

So the question now turns into "What WILL you do when the enemy tempts you in your garden?" Will you continue to pick and eat forbidden fruit? OR Will you look the enemy in his eyes and say "My God's word mean more to me than yours, I trust and believe Him thus I will be obedient to Him".

Not in Vain

Galatians 6:9 "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap if we faint not." 

"Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country."  I found this incerpt online while trying to gain a clear distinction of why this is a holiday. America has taken note of how much work it took to uphold this country we so effortlessly depend on every day. We without a care in the world, drive to grocery stores and various other places with good faith in knowing our products of choice will be there or service will be there. Do we think about the ones who stock the shelves? Sometimes we barely leave tips when we are suppose to let alone thanking people at the grocery store for doing what they do. Yet, they still work for little or nothing making sure America is happy. 

Funny thing is that God keeps count of all that we do. I so happen to work in retail, currently. What is my job title? Well, I am a cashier at Big Lots and it is a thankless job. All types of people come in that store rushing, bad attitudes, superior demeanor as if what we do does not matter. Even with those type of customers there are always the nice, thankful, and sweet people that come in who shows appreciation. Now, what keeps me grounded at work is one scripture that states that we work unto The Lord which is in Colossians 3:23-24. In whatever I do whether I get a thank you or not, I do it to the best of my ability irregardless. Sometimes I fall short, but the intentions were there and that's what God has to judge me on. We have to understand that if America takes timeout to thank countrywide workers for all that they do, that God does too. Please, do not ever think that your good works are not being accounted for in Heaven. As a matter of fact it is when we are not being reciprocated is when we find out why we are truly working. God may just hold back your supervisor giving you a bonus to see would you still put your all into your job or would you stop caring? God wants our best not just when it is beneficiary to us, but out of a pure spirit for Him.

So it states, do not get weary. We should not get tiresome to the point that we just flat out give up on diligently working because God promised us a reward. A rapper can state that he does not get tired, but Christians should be the real definition of not getting tired because we go through the most stuff. Christians go through being misused, abused, and accused yet we keep pressing onward. Why? Because our "Labor Day" is coming! Our rest will soon come if we faint not. What rest is that? The eternal rest that only God can provide if we are His, resting in Paradise. Jesus has prepared a place for us in Heaven which is in John 14:23. A place of rest, joy, peace, fun, fellowship, and worship. A place for recognizing all that we went through and relieving us of the world and it's troubles. Heaven is THE ULTIMATE VACAY. It is permanent and you will enjoy every bit of it if you faint not! 

                                                                Happy Labor Day!!!