This Is It!

Joshua 1:7 "Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to right or to the left, so that you may have success wherever you go."

This is it!!! It is the end of June and what a month this has been! Let's make sure we truly close it out by not dwelling on things we cannot change as mentioned in our Pray Harder post. It is evident that a war of words have ensued via various social media outlets in regards to the Confederate Flag as well as the Supreme Court decision on marriage equality. In using the platform God has given us we here at Fearless Faith want to encourage everyone no matter their chosen lifestyle. Understand that the Government of the United States of America is for THE people (despite it being founded on Christian principles); whereas, God is for HIS people. The government is based on your rights as a citizen; whereas, the church is based on your beliefs as a follower of Christ. In America we are all treated equally (and I use the term loosely, VERY loosely) according to the governments law; however, under God's law we are treated justly.  

As believers in Christ it is not our duty to judge instead we are here to prepare people to face THE judge on judgement day. How do we do this? Definitely not by pointing fingers or crucifying people with our words and quoting scriptures against their lifestyle as if there aren't scriptures that go against some aspects of our own lifestyles. We are to lead by example showing the love that God shows us in our chosen sins (because we all sin or have sinned). Just as Romans 3:10 says none of us are righteous or blameless; therefore, we shouldn't act as if we are. No one willingly accepts things that are forced upon them, beliefs included (which is applicable to both ends of the spectrum), but we both would like our beliefs respected. Which is where we've found common ground. Agree to disagree WITH LOVE! I don't have to agree with or support your lifestyle but I can absolutely respect it as well as love you. God won a long time ago and love never lost because God is love.  

So, where do we go from here? We move forward not necessarily forgetting but definitely not dwelling on what has happened to us as a society, race, or church because it's obviously not the end just yet. Over the weekend we witnessed the young lady Bree Newsome in a courageous act of removing the Confederate Flag from the capitol building in South Carolina. No, this will not solve the problem but what it does is keep law makers and politicians aware that we are still aware and we are still fighting to progress. So although this month is over continue on your journey (spiritually, professionally, politically, emotionally, etc.) not dwelling on things that have passed but looking to things that are ahead. 

#ThisIsIt #MovingForward#TheFightContinuesThough #FearlessFAITH #GodWins

Who's Leading?

Okay great people of the world, June is winding down! I just have one question. Who is Leading you? We all are being led by someone or something. How? Well, I'm glad you asked. See, everyday we encounter some form of leadership whether it be our flesh(emotions, desires, and sin), the world and its lust(other people included), satan and his devices, or The Spirit of God. So look back at this month and ask yourself, who has been leading you? Who's advice have you been taking? The wisdom of God or the world? See, so much has happened within this month alone that can shake a believers faith if we are not careful. One must understand that God foretold these times and we must remain in His Will. Christians do not have a spirit of fear, but a SOUND mind. The world does not need to see a doubting Christian right now. If anything this is when our faith should be on a THOUSAND.

Our praise should be the most genuine because of such dark days we are presented. People need to know that God is loving them daily and the wages of sin is death, but The *free* Gift of God is eternal life in Heaven, in harmony with God, in worship, in Joy forevermore. So who is leading you? Because honestly any other "leader" will quickly pass away with this unbearable world everyone talks about. A person does not have to be saved to know this isn't a great place to live. It's not safe. It's not stable. So why be led by it? Why be led by people who will not be with you on your judgment day? Why be led by satan when he will be destroyed too? Best option is to get with or stick with The Lord Whose Kingdom shall remain supreme and forever!

Emotions can't lead us.

They change every day.

Satan can lead us,

Only to hell and the grave.

The world can't lead us.

It will perish too.

So allow God to lead.

After all, He died for YOU!

Transparency: Clean Your Window

1 Thessalonians 4: 11-12 " that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing" 

This past Sunday at The Fort Bend Church in Sugar Land, TX Minister Cedric Ballard shared two songs from his new album "Transparency"(which is currently on iTunes). I truly believe there is a song of every person on this album. In listening all week it put some things into perspective for me. It is often said that we should see ourselves how God sees us but what if God can't actually see us? What if we've hidden who we are behind all of our guilt, shame, and stubbornness? Our inability to be honest, open, and true with ourselves also disables us from being accessible to God. In order for God to make us new through the cleansing of our hearts, the renewing of our minds, and the forgiveness of our sins we have to be honest with him as well as ourselves. 

In wake of the Confederate Flag debate in my home state, Mississippi, I realized that transparency isn't just necessary between you and God but also with you and your peers. It is so important to know the hearts and intentions of those you allow into your life. Think of it this way, a frosted window is not only prevents people from seeing in clearly it also prevents you from seeing out of it clearly. How difficult and dangerous is it to operate in any realm with visibility? EXTREMELY! How can you tell someone else that there is a spot in their window when you're isn't squeaky clean either? That spot could very well be in your own window. All in all we must make sure we are in good standing with God and accept accountability for our actions, views, and etc. 

In order for you to see clearly and live freely you must be completely cleansed. Is this really Freedom Friday or are we hiding behind frosted windows (i.e. Flags) alluding to freedom that has not truly been given? 

#CleanYourWindow #FearlessFAITH 

Living Thankful

You guessed it! It is #ThankfulThursday and the task for today is to take account for all you have to be thankful for people. Of course there aren't enough hours in a day, but think about as much as you can. Last night as I sat in the parking lot waiting for someone, I saw a homeless person walking. Looking at him humbled me in so many ways. My transportation for instance, shelter, food, clothes, cell phone, and the list went on bursting with gratitude in those few minutes of me watching him. Strangely, I couldn't get in contact with him because as soon as I turned my head he was gone. Funny, because when I saw him it was like he came out of nowhere, but that is besides the point. The point is the stuff we complain about is usually trivial compared to the endless blessings God gives us daily.

Nothing is stopping us from being homeless, except The Grace of God. Let's not take this life for granted. Being thankful shows God we are appreciative and that we acknowledge God is The One blessing us and not ourselves or employers. God wakes us all up because of His Love for us and not our alarm clocks. Gently does He lay us down at night and wakes us in the morning. Giving us fresh fruit and flowers every year because of His Love. So be thankful! Be thankful that you are His! Be thankful that you are in covenant with Him through Jesus Blood. Best way to be thankful about life is to LIVE it joyfully in The Will of our King. Thank Him for His Will and walk in it!

#ThankfulThursdays #LiveThankful

J'adore

Zephaniah 3:17 " The LORD your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."

All of us may have or have had days where we are just not impressed with ourselves. Whether it be a bad decision we made, a physical characteristic, or etc. we find a way to criticize ourselves. We've come so accustomed to elevating our imperfections that we don't acknowledge our "perfections" for lack of a better term. When God (who is perfect) created us He did so with a vision that has come to be distorted by the world. We must get back to seeing ourselves as God sees us. As Marvin Sapp said in His song "He saw the best in me, when everyone else around me could only see the worst in me." You are included in that "everyone" because you are essentially your own worst critic.  God loves you just as you are (bad decision, physical imperfections, and all) which is just as He has created you and none of that is a secret in as much as He sent His Son to die for you.

Don't focus so much on what you see and what you know. Our main objective each and everyday should be to please God and He has given us all the resources we need to ensure that we do just that. Remember faith is believing in that which is unseen which means you have to power and the authority to speak things into existence. I loved how my pastor put it Sunday "Speak what you expect".  If you don't believe that you are great, you are beautiful (ladies), or you are handsome (gentlemen) then you can't expect someone else to see you that way either. If you don't see yourself as an entrepreneur, a husband (wife), a father (mother), a leader, and etc. no one else will see it either. Everything that you are and everything you will be is an indication of God's love for you. Contrarily, everything that you aren't and everything that you will not be is also an indication of God's love for you. Everyone isn't equipped to be an entrepreneur nor can everyone be the President of the United States. God knows that; therefore, He puts you in a place where you can thrive.

You are a representation of the Kingdom just as you are...flaws and all! Embrace it! #FearlessFAITH

I Don't Understand.

I don't understand why the grass is green.

I don't understand why the sky is blue.

One thing I do know is God still cares.

It is never as bad as it seems.

Nothing can escape the truth.

As the times vastly get more difficult by the day, we must hold on to our faith. We will not understand why everything is going on, and that is okay. No matter what, we must remain certain that we still have our Hope. I am a person who likes to ask questions. In some cases, I make it my duty to get to the bottom of things. So imagine my head filled with so many questions concerning the world we live in today. God so wisely answers me, as He always does, with His Word. He reminds me that my thought pattern and His thought pattern are more than light years apart. To be on His thinking level would be equal to Him which will never happen. What I, you, and we all should do is utilize this faith we so confidently broadcast every day. Not just when it is convenient, but in these uncomfortable times as well.

I don't understand why blacks are being slaughtered like animals. I don't understand why college students are unable to find jobs after being in school for 14+ years. I don't understand why this country that was suppose to be built on Godly Beliefs, is turning away from God. One thing I am sure of is that God is STILL in control. God said these days would come to pass, that men will not adhere sound doctrine. That love will wax cold. He also said look to the hills where our help comes from. Then He encourages us by saying, I will never leave you. Our faith is the only thing we have to hold on to. Everything is slowly passing away. The world is getting more confusing by the second, but our faith should always be understood. I may not understand this world, but I do understand I am  not of this world, but above it through Christ, for He is Greater within me than any man without Him. It's not about me understanding my surroundings, but praying for my surroundings.

What is faith if we understood everything that was going on around us? There would be no reason for us to need God if we already knew everything. Right? Embrace the mystery and live faithfully in Christ even when you don't understand.

#FearlessFAITH

Stand Down, Let God Work

2 Chronicles 20:17 "You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalen! Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the LORD is with you." 

Calm down! Every battle that is presented to you isn't meant for you to fight. One of the greatest characteristics of a spiritually mature and wise person is their ability to pick their battles. Yes, there are some situations that God has equipped you to handle, but there are other situations that only God can handle. The true test is in knowing how to decipher the two. This is why consistent and persistent prayer is eminent. Consistency with God reveals to God that you not only trust Him but that He can also trust you allowing Him the free reign to bless you beyond measure without risk of losing you in those blessings. Persistency with God, no matter how you feel, is indicative of loyalty and perseverance which also allows Him the free reign to bless you beyond measure. God can easily communicate with you when you are dedicated to communing with Him helping you to understand His directions and intentions for whatever it is you're faced with on this day or future days to come. It's okay to step back and let God step forward knowing that every action doesn't warrant a reaction.

#StandDown #GodAtWork #FearlessFAITH      

Pray Harder [Prayers for Charleston]

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 " Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

We are deeply saddened by the event that took place at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina during Wednesday night Bible Study. As tragedy continuously plagues America, more specifically the African American community due to gun violence (amongst ourselves, the police, or other races) our eagerness to turn to prayer is diminishing. This is not a time to let our faith waver. This is not a time to question God's presence nor His purpose. Yes, we are under attack and I don't mean we as in the African American community (although we are) I mean we as in the church! Being under attack is the very reason we should continue to pray and pray even harder. There is power in prayer. Kneeling in prayer gives us the strength to stand in troubled times. Prayer is the secret weapon to winning this fight. Prayer is where we gain peace when we don't understand, prayer is where we gain strength when we are weak, prayer is where we find comfort during a time of sorrow. When we don't know what else to do, when it seems to be hardest, and even when it is deemed as pointless we must pray. We must understand that while God's plan is not always understandable in our minds they are always purposeful within the confines of His kingdom.
As we mourn the death of 9 souls that lost their lives at the hand of a young man with a harden heart we rejoice in knowing that there was no better place they could've been in that moment. We rejoice knowing that God is still very present in this situation in that there are issues that need to be addressed in America.

The Facebook post above spoke to my heart as I scrolled comments in regards to the shooting. I couldn't have worded better myself. 

Unfortunately it takes tragic events such as this to bring awareness to the hatred that lies within the hearts of fellow Americans due to the color of someone's skin. It is incomprehensible how someone could come into the House of the Lord, where lives are to be saved, sit for an hour only to take the lives of those individuals. In all of this the serenity prayer is one that was placed on my heart as we go through these trying times. Let's make it a priority to pray for this church family, the victims individual families, and this young man as well as his family. We will not live in fear because the God that we serve commands that we live by faith.

#PrayHarder #FearlessFAITH #PrayersForCharleston

God Is Great!

Psalm 145:3 Great is The Lord, and greatly to be praised; and  His greatness is unsearchable. 

Hey hey! Who all watched the NBA Finals this past Tuesday? If you did, you would have seen the glory God received that night. The Warriors confidently praised God for their historic season and victorious win. One of the players concluded with, "God is Great!" Those players had faith and continued to stay in The Will of God no matter what losses that may have occurred. I know they were tempted at times. Come on they are NBA players, but they still kept their walk straight. Proclaiming their faith not only in word, but also in deed. It is great to see celebs who are enthusiastic about Christ! With so much falsehood about Christianity these days, witnessing REAL Christians was spiritually refreshing.

Just as they boldly proclaimed Jesus, so should we in our lives. Be enthusiastic! God is Great just as the Psalm conveys. Why is He Great? For one He is keeping you alive. For two He is protecting you. For three He is forgiving you constantly! For...look, you get it. I could be all day stating why He is Great. You should know and it is time for you to tell others. Even on our not so great days, His Greatness never changes! Our faith should not waver because of worldly temptations or trials but should be perfected through such ordeals. So again, God is GREAT! Let's be great towards Him in our faith in Christ. Don't be shy, testify! God is....!!

Just Try It

Psalm 34:8 " Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!"

Have you ever had food that from your favorite restaurant that was too good to share? Contrarily, have you ever had food that was too good NOT to share? You know that if someone just tried it they will never eat that type of food anywhere else and they will crave it all the time. Well that's how I feel about God's Word, His glory, His mercy, His grace, and etc. God is too good to us for us not to share that goodness with others. Its so easy to get caught up in our own blessings that we don't allow them to flow from hand to hand and heart to heart which is what they are supposed to do. There is nothing selfish about being a Christian because God has more than enough to offer to us and through us.

When Christ wrongfully received the sentence that you and I rightfully deserve, that was mercy; however we are still able to experience God's goodness. This is no different than you sharing God's goodness with those who you think (for whatever reason) aren't worthy of the kingdom (which is something a saved person should never think about anyone). The reason life is good for us is simply because God is good. That's news that is too good not to share. Let's not forget that we have a job to do by obeying the Word and also sharing the Word. God blesses you so that you are able to bless others. God's power, love, and etc. is more than enough to spread around. Just as the 2 fish and 5 loaves kept multiplying as they kept breaking and distributing God's love will do the same. Share some of God today and everyday!

#FearlessFAITH #TasteAndSee  

Life Is Good.

Ecclesiastes 6:7 All the labour of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite is not filled.


Hey you! Did you know how great your life is in Christ? Your prosperity is never ending. I know it may seem bleak sometimes, but it is only temporary. Only thing that will last forever is God's Word and in that Word are His Promisies. Promises of triumph and not defeat. Promises of restoration and not destruction. Promises of life and not death to His people. That means YOU. Let's not get into the comparing game that allows us to lessen our value. God knows what He is doing. If you are not where you want to be in life the answer is not in envying others on social media. The answer is to take inventory on what WE are doing and to also be content at where we are in life.

So I ask again, didn't you know life in Christ is good? Count your blessings people. It can always be worst. How do you think our Gracious God feels looking at His people He redeemed, by His Son's Blood, complaining about trivial stuff? Complaining about stuff that has nothing to do with why we are saved. Sadly, we focus more on selfish ambition than telling others Jesus loves them. Just as the leading scripture states, we can work towards achievements, but it doesn't necessarily fulfill us inwardly. Getting caught up in the rat race of finishing school, landing a career, getting married, and having kids, we forget we have spiritual work to do. All of those things are applauded, but let's not lose focus on what our true mission is in life, to lift up Jesus. Focusing on those things will only cause depression and a heart full of complaints. There are married people who are still empty. There are million dollar bank accounts attached to people whose life lacks meaning. People who thought their kids would bring joy to their lives, but find they still need more. More of what? Jesus! Stop looking for "good" in things or in people and realize what GOOD you have in Christ! God placed other relationships and things here as an additive for our enjoyment not the root of our Joy. Life is Good when your life is rooted in Christ.
Where is your Joy coming from?


Challenge: No complaining the ENTIRE day. Be thankful and let Jesus fill your appetite! 

Have A Superific Day!

#JoyfulLife #ChristLife #LifeIsGood

Motivational Monday: Push Through

Luke 8:48 "And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace" 

Have you ever been in a place where you've heard "no" more than you've heard "yes"? Perhaps you know someone who has experienced hardship after hardship and can't seem to catch a break. In these situations it is easy to feel like God has passed you up. It seems as though everyone around you who has prayed for something has been blessed with that something yet you still long for healing, deliverance, or just to be heard. The woman with the issue of blood probably had this same feeling as she had suffered a long 12 years. She had spent all that she had on failed treatments from various physicians. The power of Jesus was eminent around her as a large crowd had begun following Him and she was determined to get to Him. The difference between this woman and the multitude that followed was that she was looking to experience Christ while the others only wanted to see Him. She fought and pushed through to get to Him because she truly believed that He could heal her if only she could touch Him which is exactly what happened. 

The way we get to Jesus is through prayer. Just as this woman pushed we have to P.U.S.H (Pray Until Something Happens). Pray with purpose. Pray with faith. Pray with Confidence. Empty prayers exhibit a lack of belief. You have to believe in what you're praying for simultaneously believing in Who you're praying to. God doesn't give us empty promises so why give Him empty prayers? Just as His promises are filled with truth, love, intent so should our prayers be filled with belief, trust, and purpose. You can't do the same thing over and over expecting a different result. If you always pray in the bed yet nothing is happening try praying in the closet. If you only read your Bible on Sundays try reading it multiple days during the week. If you pray the same prayer every night try switching it up by praying in the spirit allowing God to have full control over what flows out of your mouth. Don't give up on your prayers keep fighting and keep pushing towards Christ and eventually you'll feel His power transfer into you. 

#PUSH #FearlessFAITH #Motivational Monday

Freedom Friday: Free Indeed

John 8:36 "So if the son sets you free, you will be free indeed" 

It's freedom Friday! No better example of how God has freed us than this song! Listen to it. Meditate on it!

Have a good weekend. 

Picture This: June 2015

Hey guys! Time for another picture this moment. Are you ready? Can you imagine someone going door to door seeking for acceptance? This person walks every day and all day wanting and waiting for that invitation inside your humble abode. See, everyone else seems to be able to get inside, but not this individual. Why? I don't know. Everyone knows he is nice. Get this, even the meanest person can come in. All the while Mr. Nice Guy continues to knock. This person looks at everyone that you allow to enter into your home. He can see that they are bringing pain, but you see a potential mate. He sees that they are bringing malice, but you see a "great" friend. Yet, he stands at the door waiting to be let in. See, He has the power to stop all of that, but He won't if you don't tell Him. In order to tell Him you must acknowledge Him. In order to acknowledge Him you must invite Him into your home. He is not going to intrude. He wants an invitation. Get it? Jesus is that diligent person and our heart is our home. 

It is crazy how we let everyone else even the devil in our hearts and leave Jesus outside waiting. Yeah, I say WE because WE haven't always been saved. There were times where Jesus stood there watching us put everything and everyone else before Him. Even in our salvation we have to take inventory of who we are letting in our "home." Is Jesus still invited? Did we kick Him out? Is He able to walk around our house or do we just keep Him up front? Can He look under that rug or in our closet? Jesus is still seeking for hearts. Just because we can't see Him does not mean He stopped knocking. Just because we are saved doesn't mean He isn't still wanting to be invited inside. Social media is great to share The Word, but is it before God? Is He still in the house(heart)? Is He first? Picture It! 

#PictureThis #CleanHouse #WhoIsInside 

The Love Triangle

Ideally when we think of our soulmate we think of the two of us riding off in the sunset to live happily ever after. Ironically, everyone that rides off in the sunset after their fairytale wedding doesn't live happily ever after. In fact, the divorce rate in the Unites States is higher than it has ever been. What is it that we're doing wrong? Well for starters instead of looking of our world defined soulmate we should be looking for our Bible defined GODmate. Yes, when God created you for His purpose that purpose is intertwined with the purpose of your GODmate. There is someone out there who has been equipped to give you the love that you need in the exact way in which you desire. Well why am I still single? Good question. You have to allow God to lead you and in order for Him to do that you must be first be focused solely on Him. Take Adam for example, he was so focused and working hard on the task that God had given Him that he didn't even notice that He was alone. God took it upon Himself to create Eve for Him. God knows exactly what and who you need as well as when you're ready to receive it. The same thing goes for your mate.

If you're already married or in a relationship you're probably wondering "How does this apply to me?" which is a good question. When God is who brought you together God will be who keeps you together. *Pause* if only one of you are focused on God it is not your job to force the other to do the same. *Play* The closer each of you are to God in your relationship the closer you will be to one another. God being at the top of the triangle allows each of you realize that neither of you are above one another. God is the head of your relationship; therefore, when the two of you can't find common ground due to your fleshy feelings and thoughts look to God to be that common place.

This seems pretty simple, so why is the divorce rate so high in the United States? Well, I read an article a few weeks ago that eluded to the fact that many Americans no longer consider themselves Christians. Therefore, these people are not allowing Christ to lead their lives let alone their mates. On that note let me remind you that everyone isn't made to love you and if they aren't Christ-centered they have no idea how to love you. Ladies, in order for your husband to love you he must first understand the way Christ loves you (and him) because Christ is the example that teaches a man how to love a woman. It is also through that love that makes the woman open to fearlessly submit to her husband as the Word has instructed. Just as there are always three sides to a story there are three people in a love triangle; He, She, and GOD!

#LoveTriangle #FearlessFAITH #LoveHerAsChristDoes  

Health Is Wealth

Okay you guys! We are going to talk about our health. I know, not the most exhilarating topic, but it needs to be discussed. Our health plays a huge role in our lives. Good health is our life! Simple logic that we are what we eat, correct? At any time that we may feel sluggish, have acne, or diseases we must take inventory on what WE are doing to cause it. Heart disease, acne, high blood pressure, and the list goes on can all be solved with what? Better eating habits people. I for one can attest that my skin looks a thousand times better when I eat right and workout. Also, my body feels better. Kim knows the monthly pain I use to go through before I started back on my nutritional lifestyle. Since the top of the year, I have not had one monthly pain. We pray oftentimes for God to help us when He has already given us the tools to live a healthy life.

So, my tip or challenge if you will is to not eat any fast food for the rest of the week. I know that juicy burger is very easy to get and delicious to devour. They make it convenient for a reason. Just as this Christian walk isn't easy, living a healthy lifestyle will not be either. Nothing worth having is easy. The plan is to take it in steps. First plan of action is to pack your lunch to work instead of eating out. Your body will appreciate it. Trust me! Actually got a two for one tip because it will save you money as well. Health is Wealth ladies and gents. Your life can be richer when you are at your best state physically! I mean really, don't you want to be? Healthy that is.

#FearlessFAITH #FastFoodStrike #GoGetYourWealth #LiveHealthy

Don't Stop Running

Philippians 3:12 " Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead" 

Often times we can find ourselves running from God and the purpose that He has for us. More times than not it isn't because of a rebellious spirit it is of a fearful spirit. The fears of the power or impact that your purpose will have on yourself and others. Having power and knowing how to effectively use that power is powerful. Now is the perfect time to stop running from God and begin running to and for Him. You (we) have work to do! Use the tools and resources that God has given you. 

If you're not doing what He invested in you to do then what are you doing? Don't allow your kingdom value be depreciated due to the fear of how others will receive you. Your ultimate goal is to be received by God in the Kingdom of Heaven and you can only do that by living in and fulfilling the purpose that He has given you. 

Never forget that our days are limited and we never know how much time is left to complete your assignment. If you're anything like me the spirit of procrastination weighs heavily on you, but even that can't stop you. Just as procrastination is not a good characteristic for work or school neither is it good in the Kingdom. In the end the assignment must be completed to the best of your ability in its entirety on its due date. There is no opportunity to re-do the assignment, tests can't be re-taken or re-scheduled, and papers cannot be re-written or corrected. 

Keep running, keep working, keep pushing, keep believing, keep trusting, and God you will be rewarded in the end. 

#ChasingAfterYOU #RunningForYOU #MotivationalMonday  

What's Back There?

Luke 17:32 "Remember Lot's Wife" 

WHEW! We made it...it's FRIDAY!! The end of the work week for most of us is always a sigh of relief as we look forward to a rejuvenating weekend. This week is now behind you and so should any trouble that came with it. I came across a quote that read "Don't look back unless you are planning to go that way". I found it interesting in that even if we wanted to go back we couldn't, it's impossible, once the day is gone it is gone forever. All that we can do is make the most of the decisions we made and move forward. There are no "backsies", there is no opportunity to make changes. Later, I came across another quote that read "Never look back, if Cinderella had gone back for her shoe she would have never become a princess". Which made me think "how many opportunities have I missed out on going back for what was going to be brought to me with a higher return on investment"? 

In many instances (outside of our careers) we find ourselves dwelling on what was not realizing that in doing so we exhibit a lack of hope for what will be. We go back for things God meant for us to leave back. God equips you for every situation; therefore, if He brings you out of something He's going to bring you into something so much better. If He brings you out with one shoe He has another on the road ahead. Sometimes there may be a some travel time in between destinations. Don't let your travel time be filled with restlessness, hopelessness, unfaithfulness to God's word, or disbelief in God's promises. Even if you don't know where you're going you must still be obedient in moving. The amount of time it takes to get to your destination is dependent upon how far God has to take you. Just like any other trip there are rest stops, touring stops, and etc. As you allow Him to lead you make sure you are preparing your ears to hear Him, your eyes to see Him, and your mouth to thank Him. Lot's wife didn't quite understand. She didn't want to leave anything behind, so she was turned into a pillar of salt just as everything she was going back for was destroyed as well. This is the ultimate example of self-destruct. When you don't do what God instructs it leads to self-destruct. 

So don't miss out on what God is going to give you while dwelling on what He has taken away from you. As you continue on this journey to your destiny don't forget to enjoy the rest stops and sightseeing. You're going to get there, but God has to show you some things along the way to prepare you for what it is you will receive. 

#YouWillGetThere #NothingIsBackThere #FearlessFAITH

     

Plot Mess

2 Samuel 17:2 And I will come upon him while he is weary and weak handed, and will make him afraid: and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will smite the king only.

This is exactly how our enemy, the devil, wants to devour us. You see satan travels all the day long without rest, picking with God's people. Well he picks with everyone, but especially believers. Once we let our guards down and get too relaxed, boom! Temptation explosively makes an entrance. Perhaps you are fasting and praying, right? Suddenly your office colleagues want to treat you to a delicious meal. What about that child of yours that is acting out more than usual? Let's not forget that spouse who is challenging you in every way possible. You're tired. You're weak. Satan thinks this is his chance to pounce in for the kill. He feeds off our weaknesses. Plotting and conjuring up devices to utterly kill us, our relationship with God, our priesthood.

However, Jesus died for our weak moments in life. Jesus death was symbolic of His strength in our weakness. No one else had the strength to do what He did so He did it on our behalf. Jesus is STILL fighting for us. The Cross not only defeated death, but The Cross also defeated satan's power over us. He no longer can overpower us while being covered in The Blood! He can plot and scheme all he wants, but it will always fail. So, we will always have weak moments in life. Still dealing with this flesh, it happens. Fortunately, we don't have to fret in our short comings. Instead, we should glorify God in them. So if he is trying to get you at work direct him to Jesus. Is he working through your family? Direct that devil to Jesus! It is #ThankfulThursday. Let's be thankful that the devil has already been defeated no matter what he is plotting against us in our times of weakness!

#TheBlood #FF #PlotMess #JesusWinsAgain

Fit for the Kingdom

1 John 4:4 "You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world"

You are of God. In fact, your body is a temple created by and occupied by God. The struggles that the world has placed on our backs are not there for us to carry alone nor are they placed upon us to become a part of us. In fact, they are placed on our backs merely to display our strength and dependence on He who dwells within us rather than to be the face of who we are when we enter a room. God can only be as big as you allow Him to be in your life and He can only utilize the amount of space that you give Him. Sometimes we can unknowingly have the mindset that we are bigger than God expecting Him to do big things in our lives while we only give Him a small part of us. Understand and believe that God is bigger than your problems and stronger than your struggles so then your faith becomes bigger than your fear. This understanding will turn your stumbling blocks into stepping stones.

As I write I'm reminded of instances in my childhood when I tried to do something on my own, repeatedly failing, while my mother (unbeknownst to me) watched and waited until I asked for help. While she would never allow me to cause harm to myself she also would not intervene without me acknowledging that I needed her help. So, it's not that God doesn't see you struggling it's the fact that you haven't acknowledged that you need Him during your struggle. Or perhaps you've asked for His helped, but instead of allowing Him to do it His way you're trying to show Him how to fix it your way (as if it hasn't repeated failed).

God has a unique method of communication with us in that He operates in the spirit. Therefore, when we invite Christ into our lives He intertwines His spirit with our spirit (which is housed in our physical body) giving us the ability to feel and sense His presence. Contrarily, by inviting God into our lives we give Him permission to live through us, speak through us, and act through us.In accordance with our June challenge my focus is being faithful to my health (my physical body). Whether we realize it or accept it as true our physical health plays a role in how fit we are for the kingdom. If we allow our bodies to be become dysfunctional (meaning we can't actively work for the Kingdom) we then become unfit feeling fatigue, sluggish, and unenthused day in and day out. Health living starts from within encompassing the mind, body and spirit; therefore, if we're inviting God to live within us we have to make sure the living conditions are appropriate for Him to complete His work. Are you fit for the Kingdom?

P.S. My personal challenge this month is to be faithful to my health and fitness. In this challenge it is my goal to engage in clean eating 85% of the time and beginner exercise multiple times a week.

#FearlessFAITH #GetFit

Love One Another

John 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.

I read this and wondered why did Jesus repeat Himself? He could have easily stopped at "...as I have loved you..." Instead, Jesus deliberately charged us again to love each other. Why? Are we that forgetful that we have to hear it more than once? Why? Is it that we get so caught up in our own splendor that we may forget to love people? Jesus knew what He was dealing with while talking to us. It wasn't really a new commandment, but He was enlightening us on what He wanted us to do in the first place, love! Our excellent selves get so caught up on quoting scriptures and condemning people that we forget the true mission, love.

There has been uproar over Bruce Jenner. I can honestly say I was taken back by all of it. In my confusion, God gave me an answer. Love! Love doesn't need a condition or terms. I don't have to understand your lifestyle to love you. Just as Jesus loved/loves us is how we should the next man. As people of God we can easily get our passion messed up with persecuting which was what the Pharisees were all about. Still being honest, I have had my "overly zealous" moments too. It is not Gospel to replace sound doctrine with our emotions. Mixing feelings with Bible verses is a very dangerous game and I am so glad God stopped me in my dead tracks. Try actually loving people based on The Love God has for you and not because you like them or are fond of them. Very simple really, but yet very rare. To really love is uncomfortable, heart breaking, and also powerful. It is powerful enough for others to see Christ in you and ask how can they get that same Strength? How can they get to know this Love that is being generated through your smile, laugh, helping hand, and listening ear? Love is what it will take for people to know who we are and Who we serve. Bashing, recalling scripture, or wearing modest clothes will not point sinners to The Cross. Loving one another despite how they look or how we feel, however, will. God's Way is Love. Which way are you going?


#Love #FF #NewCommandment 

Just Be Quiet!

Exodus 14:14 "The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent" 

Sometimes you have to know when its best to speak and when its best not to speak. My mother used to tell me growing up "think before you speak" and often times when you do that you're able to decipher what should or shouldn't be said in a given situation. Being silent also gives you the ability to listen and observe your surroundings getting a better understanding of how to speak when the time comes. More times than we realize it's not what we say, but how we say it that comes across as offensive, condescending, judgmental, and all other like terms. Most importantly silence is a signal to God. When we are silent we give God a chance to manifest within us to work on our behalf without us having to lift a finger or say a word unless He tells us to do so. This in turn allows you to exhibit the amount of faith you have in God. Faith is comprised of 3 characteristics; trust, belief, and resilience. From this we can forget all of the "logic" of the human mind to depend solely on the unfathomable abilities of our God. 

In most places where many people are gathered there is only one speaker and in order for that speaker to be heard everyone else must be silent. So in order for God to speak to you and through you, you must first be silent (muting your thoughts that are filled with doubt, apprehensiveness, confusion, and etc.) Silence puts you in communion with God and at peace with everything going on around you. There is a quote that I love which states "The loudest person in the room is often the weakest link" and another that says "All bark and no bite". Both quotes elude to the fact that it's not about what you say it's all about what you don't say thus making silence a great strength. It is in your silence that you can receive direction, it is in your silence that you can receive understanding, it is in your silence that you can be comforted, and it is in your silence that you can find peace. 

Start this month with the dedication to close your mouth and open your ears. James 1:19 tells us to be  quick to listen and slow to speak. Every action doesn't require a reaction and every thought doesn't have to be expressed. Slow down, be quiet, and allow God to speak and act on your behalf. Be faithful to your faith!