God Will Bring It To Pass!

Isaiah 46:11 "...Yes I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it.

Hello, all! Fearless Faith will be doing something new for the next few months. We will be going from five days to three day a week posts. Don't worry it is just temporary. That also gives you time to dig into The Word on your own time.

So, today's post is simply saying don't fret! Oftentimes, we feel the need to figure out why certain things are happening to us and want to build a plan to "fix" our situation. This scripture reminds us that God has NOT forgotten about us. We have to remember that God truly wants the best life for us. If it is in His Word then it will surely be done in our lives. God doesn't speak just because it sounds good or to hear Himself talk. He means what He says. The reason we doubt isn't because He is taking too long or playing with us. Doubting in this case, comes from fear, mistrust, and lack of knowledge. Planting more Word on good soil produces that mustard seed faith we need to please God. Understand that you are here on purpose. God saved you on purpose. Nothing that has been done concerning you is in vain. Try not to let your situation have you and give your situation to Jesus. Let's exercise repeating scripture in confidence knowing God has already came to our rescue. He helped us before we even knew we needed help.

Don't fret; God is not through with you yet! You are loved, valued, unique, and hand picked by God. That's enough to be excited about. I want to leave you with this song by Tina Campbell called, Destiny. It is a beautiful song inspired by a rough time in her life which God spoke to her saying, "It is not over." Yes, it seems bleak, but you are purposed. I know you are feeling weak, but hold on. I have so much good things in store for you. God may be speaking those things to you, listen to Him. He does not lie. Believe that He will fulfill His Promises in your life.

Be True To YOU

It's FRIDAY...Freedom Friday!!! Let's talk about being true today, true to yourself. This is a crazy crazy world we live in and the one thing we all probably have in common is no one likes to be lied to. Ironically, the same people that don't like being lied to end of lying either to someone else or worst of all to themselves. Take everything and everyone else out of the picture and focus on yourself for a minute. What kind of lies have you told yourself lately? Have you been so consistent in lying to yourself that you believe it yourself? Your outward should reflect your inward and sadly that isn't the cast generally. Some of us walk around with lively with a bright smile when we're actually dead inside living in darkness trying so hard to conceal the truth. You no longer have to be that person. Confide in God and allow Him to guide you to the earthly being He has equipped to help you through being proud of your truth. Free yourself from the lies that you keep telling yourself which are also the lies that are holding you back from being a better you for the Kingdom. The worst injuries are self-inflicted so if you wouldn't want anyone else to harm you then stop harming yourself. 

#FearlessFAITH 

For Your Good!

Psalm 119:71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn Your statutes.

It is #ThankfulThursday! What are we thankful for today you may ask? Well, we are thankful for trials. Some of you may be saying huh? It is okay. Everything will make since later. So one day I was watching Nat Geo Wild. Not too much on television these days that can stimulate my mind, so I said why not? On this particular segment, the narrator was focusing on lions, the Kings of the jungle. One fun fact I learned, is that lions absolutely dislike water. See, I knew they were my favorite for a reason. I dislike water too. Ha! Anyways, turns out the very thing they disliked was an instrument used to keep them alive and feed themselves. These lions had to travel through the water because their prey was coming for them. So, even though they probably despised every step they took through that water, they knew it was necessary to get to the other side. Or maybe they were too busy thinking about eating that they didn't care about the water for those few minutes. Those lions were moving pretty swiftly. Nevertheless, they did what it took to secure their life and nourish their hunger. 

We can learn a thing or two from nature. One being to not look at certain happenings as a set back and look at it as a tool to get closer to God. Each day we should be striving for a better relationship with Him. Even more so when our backs are against the wall. God wants us to be wise enough to trust Him through EVERYTHING. I mean, the lions did. They didn't throw a pity party. God gave them clear instructions as He gives us and they immediately obeyed. Sometimes, in order to get our blessing we have to go through trials which is something everyone dislikes. Remember to keep your eyes on Jesus and His Promises. That's the best way to handle manuvering through this life. David said, it was good that he was afflicted, because he was able to learn more about God. That's what we should be doing during our life problems, seeking more of God. So again, it is #ThankfulThursday peeps. Find God in the midst of your situation and listen to His guidance. Your blessing will be there waiting on the other side. 

What To Expect When You're Expecting

Psalm 77:14 "You are the God who does wonders; You have declared Your strength among the peoples" 

A few weeks ago my good friend who is the founder of "Use Your Words the Movement" declared it to be birthing season. God has planted something in each and every one of us that is fed by His Spirit and His Word. While the seed may have been planted a long time ago the ability to grow is dependent on your willingness to properly feed and nurture it. While I have never birthed a child I am familiar with the process having watched those close to me experience it. Conception is the beginning of the process in which the egg is fertilized and placed inside the woman's uterus (I know I know TMI but bear with me) and is often unbeknownst at the time. The woman eventually starts to experience changes within herself which alerts who that something is growing inside of her. There are a various emotions a woman will experience during this time and it varies between women.

Pregnancy is a process that can, at first, be concealed. However, there comes a point where what is growing inside this woman (often referred to as a gift from God) can no longer be hidden and must be shared. It is the gift of life! One can only imagine the excitement of God allowing you to bring life into this crazy world. There will be lots of questions and expectations from that mother from the moment the pregnancy is revealed. Some she will have answers to and some she will not. There are certain things expecting women can't do and there are certain things they can't consume while their seed is maturing. Eventually, the level of comfort for both the mother and the baby decreases which is an indication of birthing time! From that moment things change forever from things that you expected to things you never saw coming, but it's okay because God is with you.

I'm sure at this point you're wondering "What's YOUR point?". My point is that when God has planted something in you it has to come out. It is inevitable to conceal the gifts that God has given for His glory. So expect the unexpected when God is working in your life. Good things will happen and not so good things will happen, but keep going. Labor is the toughest part of the pregnancy process (so I've heard) and it is also the last part of it. If you're uncomfortable right now, in pain, and feel like you've come to an ending point then you are probably in the birthing process. Don't give up, see it through because the best is yet to come. As we previously expressed here on our blog "God doesn't want you to be perfect, He wants you to be willing". Be willing to experience some pain on the way to experiencing joy. Be willing to leave behind everything that's most familiar (Abraham/Lot), be willing to go into the fire (Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego), be willing to get swallowed up by a whale (Jonah), be willing to dream big (Joseph), be willing to die (Jesus).

So what do we expect when we're expecting? Expect the UNexpected! #FearlessFAITH  

Come See A Man!

John 4:29 Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?

Hey, hey! Another day that The Lord has made especially for you! Aren't you glad? You should be. Anywho, let's dig into this scripture. So much is happening in this verse. Out of her excitement, shock, and faith she proclaims to everyone, to Come see a Man! Jesus just finished telling this woman about her life. In her mind she was just going to the well to get water not get read like hooked on phonics. In today's terms yes that was the ULTIMATE read. He basically, shared her whole life with her and she is wondering how does He know these things about me. That's simple. On the outside looking in we know that Jesus knows EVERYTHING. However, while Jesus was walking the earth people weren't so acknowledging of that fact. Even today, with everything God has done and is doing for us we still fail as a human race to acknowledge and believe in God. Now just imagine what is running through her mind after this talk she had with Jesus. Probably the same questions we have today when God speaks through people concerning us about our lives. We all have or will go through those same emotions at some point. For example, when it seems like the pastor is talking directly to you during the sermon. If you didn't know, it's not the pastor broadcasting your business it is God speaking through him to teach and convict.

God loves us and corrects us when we aren't living the best possible life here on earth. Just as He took time to meet the woman at the well, He will take time to meet us in our "well state." Now what we do after God meets us is totally up to us. Absolutely love how on fire she was after talking with and believing in Jesus. It takes you back to when you first heard about Him. Remember when you first got saved? Definitely remember how I wanted to tell everyone and anyone what God did for me. It was a special kind of fire stirred in me that I thought would never burn out. Even though it hasn't burned out, it is not burning as intense as it used be. As Christians, we have to keep the fire ignited. Telling others about Christ is our MAIN purpose on earth. It is easy to get side tracked with our lives, jobs, families, etc...that we put Jesus on the back burner. He isn't to be forgotten or hidden. He is to be The Light that shines through us every day! We can learn from that woman at the well. Our walk should be pointing to Jesus just as she did. Spreading the Good News and proclaiming to all to, "Come See A Man!

Question Is...

Today is a new day and none of us knows what today will hold, but we know that we're not alone in facing it. So today the question is: Where do you want to be? At this point every school in the southern region of the United States is back in session. Generally the beginning of the year encompasses many questions in which we are told to set goals for the remainder of the year. Some of us even have to set career goals at very immature points in our lives. This years marks the second year of graduate school for me. While I'm very grateful to have the opportunity it took a while to get here. Why? Because, at the age of 9 I made plans for my life and my career none of which came to pass no matter how hard I tried because it wasn't in line with God's plan. Often times we think we have it all figured out when life isn't designed that way. It's okay to "not know" when God is leading you because you are in good hands.

So when deciding where you go from here ask yourself these questions...Is God where you want to be? If not, why be there? Is where you are where God wants you to be? I'm at a point in my life where I don't want to be anywhere that God isn't is is not allowed. God's presence is needed in my life at all times (to protect me, to guide me, and to keep me). Don't focus so much on the ending just take time to enjoy the journey.

Follow Back

Matthew 4:19 "Then He said to them, Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men" 

Happy Friday!!! Let's switch it up a little today and do "Follow Friday" instead of "Freedom Friday". This is a generation of "social media" where all communication can be done without ever leaving the comfort of your own home as well as without having to open your mouth to speak. Sadly, some measure their level of success by the amount of followers they have acquired on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, SnapChat, and etc. Now, I personally don't have a lot of followers on any social media outlet; however, I do have my rules. The major rule being if I follow you and you don't follow back within 24-48 hours (depending on my mood) I will unfollow. Yes, I'm very aware that it is a petty way of behaving, but that's just what I do.

Now, were designed to follow...Christ that is! Jesus is the one who should have an infinite amount of followers, yet from the looks of things Kim Kardashian, Beyonce, and Nicki Minaj may have more followers than Him. Actions speak louder than words. We may profess our love for the Holy Trinity on Sunday, but our lives don't truly depict that of a follower of Jesus Christ (and that includes what we share on social media) Monday through Saturday. So stop what you're doing to follow Christ.

The scripture above comes after satan had been tempting Jesus in the wilderness in an attempt to get Him to follow Him versus carrying out the task that the Father had given Him. Be careful who you're following in reality as well as the realm of social media. Your eyes are ears are openings that allow what you see and what you hear to enter into your mind which could eventually enter into your heart, hardening it to the truth that is Jesus Christ. After Jesus left the wilderness unscathed by satan He was able to carry out His mission.      

It's amazing what God will do for you if only you follow the lead of Jesus Christ in your life who God has appointed as your G.P.S (God Provided Support).

#FollowFriday #FearlessFAITH  

Be Aware!

Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.



Hello, hello! It is Thursday peeps and boy is this scripture relevant! Have you ever came across people described in the leading verse? You know, the ones that use eloquent speech mixed with enticement and agressively try to make you believe it came from The Bible? Funny thing is, when you read with The Wisdom of God you don't see it. Well, that's exactly who we should keep our distance from. Just as the picture states, we should bear fruit. Not just any fruit, but the fruit of the Spirit(Galatians 5:22-23).

If your teacher/supervisor told you to go home and grow apples, would you grow oranges? No. So why should we depart from His Word in regards of the fruit we bear? Never let anyone entice you to go against God. It is vital that we know, understand, live, and spread His Word in that order. That's part of the problem. Most miss the understanding and living part. They just read and start spreading their own version and if they word it right, it starts to sound pretty good. Remember almost doesn't count. It almost sound like The Bible, but...no. Almost is a lie. Sound doctrine breathes God's Holy Word. God's Word is not to give us a sensation, applaude our sin, and ease our guilt. However, people will try to make you believe that it's okay to sin everyone does. When Romans 6 declares otherwise. Also, be mindful of the self righteous who judge EVERYONE. They have so many rules it ain't funny(excuse my grammar). Have you met the "it's a sin for women to wear pants," "you MUST attend church four times out of the week," or my favorite "you going to hell!" That's not of God.

Best way to discern is again getting to know YOUR God by opening up that Bible. Sacrifice time for just you and Him. Soak everything He gives you in and pray you never depart from it. Today, people get so caught up on the "show" of being godly that they miss out on God all together. Don't let that be you. We can be nuts FOR Jesus just not nuts WITHOUT Him.

                #Beware #KnowHisWord #FF14

Come Back

Hosea 14:4 "I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely, for My anger has turned away from him" 

Sometimes it may seem like God is far away from you and it may very well be true. If in fact God is far away from you it is not because He has chosen to distance Himself. The distance is usually due to our own fleshly desires which results in us turning away from Him. It's okay to go back to God. He's actually waiting on you to do so so that you can continue your journey with Him. God's love for you is unconditional and greater than your love of sin. Allow Him to forgive you, allow Him to love you, allow Him to guide you.

Let us not get so caught up in where we want to go that we disregard God and ignore His guidance. We are fed and led spiritually by the Word of God; therefore, if we turn away from it it is inevitable that we will begin being fed and led by the world.  Indeed, we may still be heading to the final destination that He has predestined for us, but we'll never actually make it without Him. The "shortcuts" that we take on our own often lengthens our journey because its not what God has designed for us.

Remember as a child when your mother/father would take you to the park (or anywhere outside of your home for that matter) and asked that you not leave their sight. This was in order to protect you. God, your Heavenly Father, wants nothing more than to protect you from the dangers and deceiving nature of this world. Don't go out of His sight, come back to Him He's not angry at you for leaving.

#FearlessFAITH #ComeBack  

Lord, Increase!

Luke 17:5 And the apostles said to The Lord, increase our Faith.



Hello good people! It is yet another week and August is winding down. Time is moving fast which is why we can't waste time. Every opportunity we get to be with God should be cherished and ceased every day. It is on us to do so. God isn't going to force a relationship. He has done enough for us already. Look around. Saints should be running to The Throne daily. The world is in ruin. Just last week I was told about a demonic statue being placed in Detroit and Oklahoma with sculpted little children next to satan. Get this. They want to place this 7 foot foolishness beside The Ten Commandments. Just awful! People aren't hiding who they worship anymore. It is all out in the open for everyone to see. In times like these, who wouldn't need more of God?

So, the leading scripture shows the apostles telling Jesus to increase their faith. Ever needed a replenishment from Jesus? I'm sure we all have and will as long as we are living on this earth. We get that increase when we read our Word. How can we exercise true faith if we barely know Who we have faith in? There is no way we can solely depend on the inspirational social media statuses and this blog for spiritual guidance. What we must do is dig into our Word. Not just reading it to say we did, but asking God for understanding of His Word. Many read, but few actually understand what God is truly saying to us. The Bible is the ONLY book I know that can provide Peace, Joy, Correction, Renewal, and Wisdom. God tells us how to maneuver through life in His Word. Want to know why people are so stressed? Lack of Word. Can't just glaze over scripture, feel a sensation, then call it a day. That Word has to take root, has to be watered, cultivated in our hearts, and then will sprout in our lives. Whatever we may need from God rests in His Word. Need an increase? Well, increase your time with Him. It is amazing how much fulfillment we can get by just spending quality time with Him. God isn't a genie here to grant our every little wish. It is our faith that opens the door to our blessings. Jesus later told the apostles that their faith can move a sycamore tree out of its root to the sea all by a mustard seed ounce of faith. They would have never known if Jesus had not told them. Jesus is The Living Word, but He is not walking around earth anymore. Now we have The Word to go to for our increase of knowledge and understanding. Utilize it. Increase your daily reading and watch God increase your faith in Him.

                  #Increase #ReadYourBible

Shut It!!

Phillipians 3:13 "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind me and straining toward what is ahead," 

It's FRIDAY!!! And what a week this has been! Two things that are exciting about the end of this week #1 we don't ever have to see it again #2 we made it through to prepare for another week. You can't get ahead if you keep going back. Yes I know the pit of the week may have encompassed some challenges and disappointments as I'm sure the week peaked with some victories and exciting moments. Either way no need to dwell on either because we're not done. There is so much more for each of us and that is why we must refrain from going to that closed door. 

It's funny how God takes us through something and put an end to it yet WE feel like there is still more to come of it when it's really not. We continue to go back to what God has already deemed over. And in that sense we're stuck in a cycle of hurt, disappointment, distrust, and etc. Free yourself of all of that on this good ole Freedom Friday. Leave the door closed that God has shut because you probably don't want to experience what is going on on the other side. Praise God all the way to the next door that He opens for you. There is a Gospel song called "Praise Him in Advance" because what God is taking you to is definitely better than where he's taking you from. Don't allow your discomfort to become comfortable. Move when God says move! Remember He has given us Christ as our G.P.S. (God Provided Source). Let Him be your guide, your counselor, your comforter, and anything else you need. 

#FearlessFAITH #FreedomFriday #ShutIt  

Picture This! August 2015

Hello, hello! It's that time for another picture this moment! Ready? So, imagine this person growing up in church doing all the right things. It's like clock work. Every Sunday he is there not to mention the weekly Bible study. Everyone knows this guy to be great! He has been doing the same routine since he was a little boy. People expected him to preach, so he did. Young man started his own church and gained many followers because of it. Years went by and he was the talk of the town. This man was very well known in the community. He gets older and starts to suffer from health issues. People were worried. They didn't want to lose such a great guy just yet. Unfortunately, his time was up. Now, he is being judged by God. God tells him about all the signs that were done in His Name and said depart from Me because your work was through sin. I don't know you! Wow! Imagine his shock. This man has been zealous all his life and God doesn't even know Him? How is that possible? Well, I will be glad to explain.

Going to church and showing up at weekly church functions doesn't qualify anyone for salvation. If read carefully, there was no discussion about His Love for God or people. All his life was centered around was outward show and others approval. Notice, people assumed he should preach and he did. God didn't call him. This guy then starts his own church for popularity and not for service. We MUST be careful about not falling into the same snare. The Disciple Challenge has taught me thus far what loving God is all about. It is easy to get caught up in our own zeal that we forget why we are truly saved. Jesus loved us so in turn we love Him. Jesus sacrificed so we sacrifice DAILY. Jesus obeyed His Father as we should obey our Father. But Jeus did all those out of Love. Love is what we need to get back to because Love covers the Ten Commandments. We will never go wrong when we genuinely love God. Loving God is more difficult than loving anyone else because He is so easily put on the back burner. Evaluate yourself. Can you picture it?

“Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy Name? and in ThyNname have cast out devils? and in Thy Name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”
‭‭
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:22‬-23 KJV‬‬

We Are One!

Matthew 18:19 "Again I say to you if two of you agree concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven"

One is a number that we've deemed to be lonely, of lesser value, and etc. when in fact one can be very powerful. One day can change everything, one man can change the world (i.e. Jesus), and one decision could change your life (i.e. dedicating your life to Christ). Here in Houston, TX there is a graffiti painted bridge that says "Be Someone" which is an inspiring message to see during your morning commute each day. Well, last week the bridge was altered to say "Be One" which was met with much criticism. It was baffling to see the outrage of what I perceived to be a very strong message considering the not so subtle division amongst our nation racially, religiously, politically, and domestically. Being one doesn't necessarily mean you're standing alone or separating your individual person apart from the whole. Being one is indicative of being a cohesive unit to attain a certain dynamic that will keep us in a state of progression versus regression.

How can we agree less we come together as one fellowship?  As yesterday's post proclaimed fellowship is the glue that hold us together as one. We are a people united under God, "indivisible" yet as a whole we act as if that is not the founding principle of our country (it actually isn't which is a different RANT but just go with it here lol). We sometimes even act as if it's not the founding principle of the Church. Awesome things can happen if we could come together to be on one accord. The body of Christ is made up of many members, each having their own purpose necessary for the full function of the body. Let's not get so caught up in being someone that we forget to be one. Our God-given purpose is not just self-gratifying it should benefit the entire body in some way. Take the time out to focus on establishing cohesive relationships so that we can come together to be one force against all that will come our way.

Many blessings flow and revelations seen when we are in atonement (at one) with God. So let's no longer see "Be One" as an insult, but instead a little encouragement to put our own selfish desires aside to be the church, the nation that is continually progressing for the good our everyone.

#FearlessFAITH #BeOne  

Fellowship

What's going on peeps? Today, we are going to discuss fellowship. There use to be a time when our neighbor was our friend. If we needed anything, they helped us. Likewise, if they needed anything we would help them. Not just the person across the street, but really anyone. Now times have drastically changed. Most of us barely know our neighbors and we are perfectly fine with that. As long as they stay on their side, we are good. Let's not get started on the church. The time we spend together if you can count it, is usually only in church. Somewhere down the line we stopped cultivating relationships. Silly, because that's the only way we can cohesively work together. The arm has a relationship with the hand. As do the leg with the knee, so we need to as well. How can we edify and be a working member of the body of Christ when we barely speak to one another? Holding grudges, bitterness, or whatever else that is keeping us from forming that relationship should not be a hinderance. For instance, I have the pleasure of meeting with two young ladies I've never met before. We all are doing The Disciple Challenge. God is good because I couldn't afford The Redeemed Girls trip to fellowship and grow my relationship with Christ. So, in turn He provided this challenge sent to me.

First day was yesterday and let me tell you, it was awesome! We were on video chat discussing our lives, struggles, God's Word, answered questions, and ended with prayer. It opened my eyes because you never know who is going through the same things as you which is why fellowship with each other is important. We get so closed off that we forget it is therapeutic to be able to discuss life with others in a positive environment, of course. The Challenge was mandate that we text as little as possible because texting isn't real conversation. It's the lazy man's way of communicating, honestly. Furthermore, our fellowship with Jesus should be MOST important! Sacrifice time for Him because He is giving us time for everything else. Also, make time to talk to someone you barely talk to. Catch up with that friend or family member. Perhaps make a new friend. I'm getting to know two awesome young ladies! It's a sacrifice, but a well worth sacrifice. Don't get so busy that you forget what is important. Jesus pushed fellowship while He was here on earth. He wasn't closed off and to Himself. The same path we are to take. Be open. Make the sacrifice because we don't have the time we think we have. Love through fellowship while you can! May not have another chance.

#Fellowship #GrowTogether #Sacrifice

Let's Go

Psalm 32:8 "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with my eye" 

Let's reflect back to a point in time when our cellphones weren't an all encompassing tool. Actually, let's reflect back to a time when they didn't even exist and we relied on familiarity to travel from place to place or an actual roadmap. Some people found maps helpful while others found them to be confusing preferring not to use them and staying within the areas they were most familiar. Today is much different in that we have so many tools to go many places beyond our comfort zone, reach more people, and accomplish more things. One thing the past and the present have in common is God as our guide and the Bible as our road map. Although today there are still many people who find the Bible confusing and overwhelming (much like roadmaps) we have so many more ways to reach people and get them into the Word with various translations that make reading and understanding easier, but the one thing a Bible app cannot give you is a relationship with God. There is a tremendous difference in knowing of someone and actually having a personal relationship with that person. Same is applicable to God.

As children our parents are instructed in Proverbs 22:6 to raise us up in the way we should go while the scripture above leaves the responsibility for being guided by God on us. In order for God to guide us we must see eye to eye with Him since that is how the scripture says He will guide us. Which means we must be able to communicate and understand one another. We must trust God enough to fearfully and fearlessly go where He is telling to go, do what He is telling us to do, and say what He is telling us to say. That's right, we must be fearful of the Father and the consequences of disobeying His commands and not allowing Him to guide our lives. We must also fearlessly go where He leads despite what it looks like or feels like. Let nothing you face affect your confidence in God, your self-assurance, nor your ability to accomplish your task. I saw a picture that read "The ship that you're waiting for to come in, may very well be the ship that you need to build." You may not be a carpenter, but guess who is? You guessed it!! Jesus was and still is a carpenter and anything/anyone else you need Him to be.

So are you ready? Don't ask God for guidance if you're not willing to move your feet! You can't go anywhere if you don't move and you definitely can't make a powerful move without Christ. He is your G.P.S . (God Provided Source). So let's go!!!

#FearlessFAITH #LetsGo #GPS

Are You Watching?

Matthew 24:42 Watch therefore: for you don't know the hour your Lord will come.

Hello great people! This is a special post due to sudden happenings. Couldn't wait until next week to share and you will find out why. So, I was awaken out of my sleep. Only to be up thinking about the state of this world. With so much going on personally, in my community, and country I can definitely say my heart was grieved. In my sorrow, I turned to God. With bundles of questions, I lay waiting on a response. Why this and why that, God? Black people aren't able to be citizens without dying. Families are not speaking to each other. Churches are too busy having programs than evangelizing. Christians are too busy worrying about ourselves. Schools don't have enough funds. People are walking in complete darkness while we continuously only pray for ourselves. Leaders are crooked. The elderly have worked their whole life taken care of others and aren't being taking care of in their old age. Why, Lord? In my questioning, He already provided an answer. Reaching for my Bible, ironically I turned to Matthew 24. Of course I smiled because boom, that's the answer!

These are not the times that I should be questioning, but watching! Pay attention is what God was telling me. This is only the beginning. It is so easy to get side tracked in our personal affairs that we forget the true mission on earth. What's the true mission as a Christian? It is spreading The Gospel. Not making someone believe, but letting them know there is another way, the ONLY way to truly live in every aspect of the word which is through Jesus Christ! I urge all to engage in Matthew 24. Let God speak to you and your walk. Be mindful of the rest of your time here on earth. Don't be caught slipping or unaware. Yes, no man knows the exact time when Jesus comes back, but that doesn't mean to slack concerning His Will. In fact, we are warned not to be slacking, but you have to read it to know, which is why I'm not going to input a reference scripture. Be mindful. Be steadfast! Ask yourself. Are YOU watching?

Let's Hope

Romans 5:5 "Now hope does not disappoint us, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us".

Wednesday night was the series finale of the [once] hit show "The Game". The finale brought back the beloved couple, Melanie and Derwin, who are expecting twins. Due to the trouble Melanie had previously experienced conceiving they sought out a doctor for a third opinion on the health of the babies. While in the appointment Derwin expressed to his wife the faith that he had and the faith that she should have generally and in regards to their unborn children. After they left the doctor says "Those African American's are so hopeful". I chuckled and took it as a compliment because we are indeed a hopeful people. But I think that the church in general, despite the race, should be hopeful.

I want to bring your attention to Luke 5:17-26 where a paralyzed man went through the roof to get to Jesus. This man was hopeful that he could be healed, he believed Jesus could and would heal him, and he had the courage to make something happen. How much hope do you have? To what extreme will you go to get to Jesus? Hope, Faith, and Courage are a triple threat against devil and all his tactics. This man strongly believed that Jesus could and would heal him if given the opportunity. Can you imagine how many people around him thought he was crazy for speaking healing of such a "permanent" condition into existence? Remember how crazy people thought the woman with the issue of blood was for loudly pushing through the crowd, pushing through her hurt, pushing through her situation to touch the hem of Jesus' garment for healing and deliverance. When people think your journey in your faith-filled purpose is crazy that means you're doing it right. When people think your actions for reaching Jesus is insane then you're on the right path. And when I say crazy I mean in the sense of going out of your way to see God not hurting yourself or other people. For example, when Jesus healed the blind man he did it with spit-based mud, that's crazy!! It takes hope, faith, and a lot of courage to allow a "stranger" to put spit-based mud in your eyes in hopes that you will then see.

I know things get tough and your current situation may seem permanent or irreversible, but God has proven time and time again that nothing is outside of His power. He can and will change your situation based on your level of hope, faith, and courage. He can reveal new things to you that can completely transform you if you believe in the communication lines that have been established between you and Him. Don't lose hope. In fact, let's hope together.

#FearlessFAITH #LetsHope #HopeFaithCourage

Somebody's Praying!

2 Samuel 24:25 And David built there an altar unto The Lord, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. So The Lord was intreated for the land, and the plague was saved from Israel.


It's #ThankfulThursday folks! Today we are thankful for the prayers of others. I know I am. Truth of the matter is, you never know who is praying for your well being, peace, and protection. There have been times I've met complete strangers who prayed for me. All I could do was thank God because it reminded me of His Love. Someone else praying for you only means God placed you on that person's mind. Only because, we never leave His mind. God is always caring, loving, and protecting us even when we don't think He is doing it. Remember, He doesn't sleep, take breaks, or get tired.

Going off to college, I felt the prayers of my family. Everything I was taught slapped me in the face every time I wanted to do wrong and did wrong. It wasn't until that one night, my whole life changed. The ironic part about it was the very thing I thought made me happy was the very thing God opened my eyes to. He allowed me to look at myself and asked, "What are you doing?" I found out how unhappy I was and ran to His arms. That life altering moment happened with prayers from my family. I wasn't thinking about God, but He was thinking about me! So much so that He made sure He placed me on the hearts of prayer warriors. David, brought offerings to God, genuine offerings. He wasn't praying for show. His ways were pure going to The Throne of Grace. What did God do? He stopped the plague from reaching Israel. Every day there are dangers we know absolutely nothing about. However, that doesn't change the fact that God is still keeping us safe and alive.

The ultimate Intecessor is Jesus. We don't always know what to pray. Let's be real, our prayers aren't always genuine. Never get too excellent that you don't understand why we need Jesus praying for us as well. Jesus is on The Right Hand of Mercy praying for our bad selves every day, all day! I'm thankful! Don't know about you, but I need every prayer I can get. So be thankful that not only does God place you on the hearts of others, but that you are also on His Heart daily! Take time out to pray for others today!

#ThankfulThursday #JesusIsPraying #PrayForOthers

I've Got Questions!

Luke 6:46 " But why do you call me "Lord, Lord" and no do the things which I say" 

We are a question asking, answer seeking generation which could be both good and bad. In our faith we continually ask God questions: Why this or why that? Can you do this or can you do that? When will you do this or when will you do that? Why didn't you do this or why didn't you do that? There are two issues with this. Number 1 our delivery is wack! I can remember as a child asking my mother a question improperly or in a rude manner in which she would quickly make me rephrase it before she answered. Perhaps we should consider our approach when seeking God. This is our Father who has given so much for our being how dare we be disrespectful and rude in seeking Him for wisdom, truth, and understanding. Number 2 is that we're a generation plagued with attention deficit disorder in that before we can wait for God to answer one question our attention has shifted to something else. By the time we are redirected to the original issue we quickly say "God didn't answer". Is it that He didn't answer or is it that you weren't paying attention and missed his instruction? Or is it that we really didn't want the answer because we knew it wouldn't be what we wanted to hear? You see all the questions I'm asking today? It's quite annoying if I must say so myself; therefore, how do you think God feels when we constantly bombard Him with questions never stopping to think for ourselves or seek out the resources that He has provided for us with all the answers.

So if we're going to ask God for direction why don't we follow those directions? If we seek His advice why don't we embrace it and implement it into our situations? Do we really believe God can do what we ask? Do we really love God as much as we proclaim? Do we trust God to do what He says He'll do? Trust is a main component of our relationship with God as well as our relationship with people around us. When we go to God in prayer asking for whatever it is we need in the moment we must keep our minds stayed on Him and wait for His response. Don't bombard Him with questions that we really don't want the answer to or that we don't give Him a chance to answer. Be patient with God has He has been with you. Approach Him with love, gratitude, and trust so that you can receive all of what He has for you in your season.
 

Don't Worry About It!

Hello, hello! It is August. New month for new things! July is history and we are looking forward. Or are we?  Being in Christ, we are told to cast all of our cares on Him. Easy right? One would think giving someone that has more strength our weight, that we are unable to bear, would be a no brainier. So what is keeping us from doing so? Could it be doubt, fear, or anxiety? Christians should have the most carefree life out of anyone,, but do we? What's holding us back from that Peace? The Peace of knowing God has it all worked out. Who is standing in the way of that Joy? That faith. That confidence that God does love me and will provide justice in my life. Answer would be you, me, and us.

We worry about so much on a daily basis that it is pathetic. Parents worry about their kids. Students worry about their grades. Employees worry about their jobs. See where I'm going here? There are always countless things we can put on our worry list, but why do that? Instead, let's pray about it! Anxiety, doubt, and fear shows a well imbalanced prayer life. An unhealthy prayer life reveals a weak relationship. A weak relationship with God tells satan, "Ready for business." That's the LAST thing anyone needs to tell the devil. So don't worry about it , pray about it! Tell me. Has worrying EVER helped your situation? Has it increased your faith? Moreover, has it had any good aspect in your life? I'm sure the answer is, no. Feed your mind The Word with a follow up prayer. Speak life and cancel out doubt! Encourage yourself and let it go. We aren't built to worry. That's why heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure, etc... are hazardous to us because God created us to live in His Peace. Stop worrying and start praying! I challenge you to encourage yourself today and others that when worry kicks in to kick it out of your mind and rest on His promises! He has our lives already planned out. Remember, don't stress. Pray and let God handle the rest!

It's YOUR Time!

Ecclesiastes 3:1 "To every thing there is a season; a time for every purpose under heaven:" 

The time has arrived, again. It's MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY! Let's take the time to motivate ourselves because in doing so we inadvertently motivate others. It is the beginning of a new month which means there will be new challenges, new victories, and new growth. Isn't that exciting? It's always exciting to start fresh anticipating and expecting the move of God in our lives and life's situations. Last month our challenge was "Love" which was perfect for everything that challenged our willingness to love despite of the situation. Check out the challenge and monthly focus for the month of August on our website by clicking the aforementioned link.

Now, back to business...
I love the saying "Time is of the essence" because it is indeed very true. We always say God may not come when we want Him, but He's always on time. Well, what about you? How is your timing? Many of us, myself included, are procrastinators. It's okay to step back to regroup in an effort to clear your thoughts in order to get things done. Remember, we don't know if we'll have tomorrow, next week, next month, or next year. So do whatever it is God is instructing you to do. Don't be discouraged because things aren't going smoothly you'll appreciate it more when you have to work hard for it. Don't be upset if those close to you aren't supporting you because you have the support of the Almighty, that's all you need. Don't underestimate yourself or overwhelm yourself because if God brought you to it He'l definitely bring you through it.

So, if God is calling you to ministry don't put it off until you get all worldly things out of your system because #1 you'll never rid yourself completely of fleshly desires and worldly temptations and #2 because God is always on time when He called you the time was NOW ( or then). If God has shown you time and time again that you need to cut ties with someone close to you to get to the next level then do it. Release the familiar to embrace the newness that God is trying to give you. Whatever your situation is, whatever has you procrastinating it's time to fulfill it. The time is NOW! This is YOUR time! Believe in God, build a support system that surrounds Him and everything else will fall into place.

#FearlessFAITH #ItsYourTime #MotivationalMonday