In Revelation 3:15-17 (KJV) Jesus says in His message to the Church of Laodicea "I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked." Jesus goes on to encourage the people of that Church to repent in verses 18-22.
In the above scripture Jesus is advising the people of Laodicea that spiritually they are neither cold nor hot, but lukewarm. Let's take a moment to consider the term lukewarm so we can grasp the importance of Jesus choosing to use this word in His analogy. Have you ever taken a sip of hot coffee, and discovered that it is no longer hot, but is lukewarm? The taste diminishes greatly and you no longer get the full flavor, and enjoyment you were getting, when the coffee was hot. Have you ever taken a sip of ice tea, and discovered it had grown lukewarm? The same thing applies here the tea is watered down, and no longer tasteful, or enjoyable to you. The best example yet may be a big glass of lukewarm water, who doesn't love the taste of that?
Now that we have contemplated how bad lukewarm coffee, tea, and water can taste let me ask you this, have you ever had anything taste so bad that you literally spewed it out of your mouth? I'm sure many, if not all of you have had this experience at one time or another. Think about how horrible something has to taste for you to spew it out of your mouth. As adults, something must taste horrendous before we take that drastic of a measure.
Jesus uses the term lukewarm to describe the believers in the Church of Laodicea, and He states that He will spew them out of His mouth. This shows us what a powerful distaste He has for their behavior, and their attitudes. They said of themselves that they were rich, and had everything they needed. They had been saved, and were attending Church services, and in their opinion they were living the good life. What they failed to realize is that spiritually they were, as described by Jesus wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. They were lukewarm believers. They were straddling the fence between living worldly, and living Godly lives, and this is not acceptable to our Lord and Savior. Jesus states that he would rather the people be cold or hot than to be lukewarm. The reason for this is, if someone is cold they are easier to reach than someone lukewarm and confident that they have everything under control, and if someone is hot then they're spirit is on fire for God, and that of course is ideal.
In order to please God and receive all the blessings He desires to rain down upon us, and to have the joy, peace, and contentment He wants for us, we cannot be lukewarm believers. Are you on the fence? Are you living your life divided between worldly ways, and Godly ways? Do you go to Church on Sunday praising God and behaving in an on fire manner, and then live the remainder of the week lukewarm? Do watch, listen to, and participate in things that you know are in opposition to Godly living? Do you say and do things that you know God would not approve of? I would like to encourage you to examine your way of living and to ask yourself if it's worldly, if it's Godly, or if it's a little bit of both. Are you a lukewarm believer?
We all have areas of weakness that need work, because we are only human, and God understands that. However, we can't allow ourselves to become complacent, failing to work on the issues in our lives that need addressing. If you are living your life divided between worldly behavior and Godly behavior, I encourage you to change that immediately. Get off the fence, and live your life in a manner that you know will be pleasing to God. He will bless you abundantly, and you will be happier than you have ever been. Unfortunately, many people have the idea that living a Godly life is boring. Let me testify to you now that those people are sadly mistaken. I can tell you firsthand that it is quite the opposite.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Sunday, May 27, 2012
The Least of These
In Matthew 25:31-46 (KJV) Jesus tells the parable of the sheep and goats. In this parable He speaks of the time in which the Son Of Man shall return with all the holy angels to sit upon the throne of His glory. He then states that He will separate all nations as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. In verses 34-40 Jesus says "Then shall the king say unto them on His right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungered, and ye gave Me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave Me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took Me in: Naked, and ye clothed Me: I was sick, and ye visited Me: I was in prison, and ye came unto Me. Then shall the righteous answer Him, saying, Lord, when saw we Thee an hungered, and fed Thee? or thirsty, and gave Thee drink? When saw we Thee a stranger, and took Thee in? or naked, and clothed Thee? Or when saw we Thee sick, or in prison, and came unto Thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me." Then in verses 41-45 the King addresses the group on his left hand and advises them that they did none of these things for Him. They then state that they never saw Him in need. He responds to them by saying "Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to Me."
Often times we see homeless people sleeping under bridges, on benches, in tents, or in whatever other make shift dwelling they can construct with the materials they have available to them. We have all been approached at one time or another by a person asking for money in order to buy food, and something to drink. We have all more than likely seen homeless people out in the cold, with no coat or jacket, no shoes, and without warm clothing. The unfortunate thing is, that many people upon running across someone like this immediately judge them, and opt to either ignore them, tell them to get a job, curse them out, or even choose to verbally or physically abuse them. People do this without even knowing or wondering about the person's individual story. You hear people say things like, "look at that lazy bum", "he/she should get a job", "I work, and I work hard for my money," "Look at that drunk, he/she doesn't want food they want liquor." This ungodly attitude breaks my heart."
Have you ever seen someone homeless, and actually took the time to wonder how they landed in that position? How many of you are one paycheck away from falling behind on your house note, and eventually losing your homes? How many of you have been searching high and low for a job, and have turned up nothing? How many of you have been addicted to a substance, and know firsthand how hard it is to conquer that addiction? How many of you have had a complete nervous break down, one in which you lose touch with reality? How many of you have considered that among some of these homeless individuals are veterans of our armed forces who fought for your right to live free?
Let me encourage you to think about what you say, and how you choose to react the next time you see someone in need. I myself have fallen on hard times in my life, and there is one difference between me and those people you see on the street without shelter. I am blessed to have a large family and a group of friends that love me. I am blessed to the degree that I have a Father, Mother, Sisters, and Brothers that are there for me any time I need them, and I am there for them. I am blessed with Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and friends that I can turn to, if I ever need them. The sad thing is many of these homeless people we see have absolutely no one.
The fact that some people are homeless because they are lazy, have mistreated people who loved them, or for other reasons that they themselves brought on does not elude me. The thing about this is we should remember that God knows their hearts. If we do a good deed for them we will be rewarded for it, and God will handle them on judgment day.
Let's think before we speak, and react the next time we see a homeless person, or come across someone in need. Remember we don't know their story. I don't know about you, but when I stand before God on judgment day I want him to be able to say that I did not turn my back on one of the least of these.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message, and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Often times we see homeless people sleeping under bridges, on benches, in tents, or in whatever other make shift dwelling they can construct with the materials they have available to them. We have all been approached at one time or another by a person asking for money in order to buy food, and something to drink. We have all more than likely seen homeless people out in the cold, with no coat or jacket, no shoes, and without warm clothing. The unfortunate thing is, that many people upon running across someone like this immediately judge them, and opt to either ignore them, tell them to get a job, curse them out, or even choose to verbally or physically abuse them. People do this without even knowing or wondering about the person's individual story. You hear people say things like, "look at that lazy bum", "he/she should get a job", "I work, and I work hard for my money," "Look at that drunk, he/she doesn't want food they want liquor." This ungodly attitude breaks my heart."
Have you ever seen someone homeless, and actually took the time to wonder how they landed in that position? How many of you are one paycheck away from falling behind on your house note, and eventually losing your homes? How many of you have been searching high and low for a job, and have turned up nothing? How many of you have been addicted to a substance, and know firsthand how hard it is to conquer that addiction? How many of you have had a complete nervous break down, one in which you lose touch with reality? How many of you have considered that among some of these homeless individuals are veterans of our armed forces who fought for your right to live free?
Let me encourage you to think about what you say, and how you choose to react the next time you see someone in need. I myself have fallen on hard times in my life, and there is one difference between me and those people you see on the street without shelter. I am blessed to have a large family and a group of friends that love me. I am blessed to the degree that I have a Father, Mother, Sisters, and Brothers that are there for me any time I need them, and I am there for them. I am blessed with Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and friends that I can turn to, if I ever need them. The sad thing is many of these homeless people we see have absolutely no one.
The fact that some people are homeless because they are lazy, have mistreated people who loved them, or for other reasons that they themselves brought on does not elude me. The thing about this is we should remember that God knows their hearts. If we do a good deed for them we will be rewarded for it, and God will handle them on judgment day.
Let's think before we speak, and react the next time we see a homeless person, or come across someone in need. Remember we don't know their story. I don't know about you, but when I stand before God on judgment day I want him to be able to say that I did not turn my back on one of the least of these.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message, and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
An Unselfish Request
I Kings 3:5-14 (KJV) In this scripture the Lord appears to Solomon in a dream and asks him what he would like to be given. Solomon responds by saying you showed my father, David great mercy as he walked before you in truth, righteousness, and with an upright heart. You also showed great kindness in keeping your promise to him, when you gave him a son to sit on his throne. Solomon responded further by saying, you have made me King, successor to my father's throne and ruler over a great multitude of people, but I am inexperienced. Therefore, I ask that you give me an understanding heart to judge the people in order for me to discern good from bad. This pleased the Lord greatly. The Lord said to Solomon because you did not ask for long life, riches, or that your enemies be delivered to you, but instead ask for understanding to discern judgment, I have given you what you ask for a wise and understanding heart, and I have also given you riches and honor. The Lord then tells Solomon that if he will follow Him, and lead a righteous life as did his father David, he will add long life to the list of his blessings.
Solomon could have ask the Lord for anything that he wanted, but he opted to ask for an understanding heart in order to judge the people fairly. Many people would have ask for something personal that would benefit them directly, yet Solomon ask for something that would benefit the multitudes he was to rule over. This speaks volumes as to his character, and what kind of man he was.
In Matthew 6:7-8 (KJV) Jesus tells us not to be like the heathen and use vain repetitions, when we pray. He tells us that our Father knows what we need before we even ask him. When we go to God in prayer we should remember that he knows our needs, and that there is an enormous difference in needing something, and wanting it. For example, we may need a vehicle to get back and forth to work, but we don't need that vehicle to be the most expensive one made.
I would like to encourage you to think on the things you ask of the Lord. Are they truly needs? Or are they shallow and self-serving? If we, like Solomon ask for things from the heart that are of necessity, and remember to include others in our prayers, it is pleasing to God. When we go to him in prayer just to say thank you for our blessings and to tell him how much we love him, this pleases him also. We are his children, and he loves us dearly. He wants to bless us, and he desires happiness for each of us. If we live righteous lives, and have an upright heart, God will rain blessings upon us in abundance.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to prayer for you leave me a message, and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Solomon could have ask the Lord for anything that he wanted, but he opted to ask for an understanding heart in order to judge the people fairly. Many people would have ask for something personal that would benefit them directly, yet Solomon ask for something that would benefit the multitudes he was to rule over. This speaks volumes as to his character, and what kind of man he was.
In Matthew 6:7-8 (KJV) Jesus tells us not to be like the heathen and use vain repetitions, when we pray. He tells us that our Father knows what we need before we even ask him. When we go to God in prayer we should remember that he knows our needs, and that there is an enormous difference in needing something, and wanting it. For example, we may need a vehicle to get back and forth to work, but we don't need that vehicle to be the most expensive one made.
I would like to encourage you to think on the things you ask of the Lord. Are they truly needs? Or are they shallow and self-serving? If we, like Solomon ask for things from the heart that are of necessity, and remember to include others in our prayers, it is pleasing to God. When we go to him in prayer just to say thank you for our blessings and to tell him how much we love him, this pleases him also. We are his children, and he loves us dearly. He wants to bless us, and he desires happiness for each of us. If we live righteous lives, and have an upright heart, God will rain blessings upon us in abundance.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to prayer for you leave me a message, and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
The Power of Words
Proverbs 12:18 (KJV) Says, "There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health."
The above scripture reminds us of the power words hold. It tells us that they can be used to pierce like a sword, and that they can be used for good. Often times people fail to consider the power words have and that the manner in which we choose to use them can have a tremendous impact on those around us.
There are adults who as children were the victims of verbal bullying in school, and the pain caused by that experience remains with them today. Bullying happens to adults also. It happens to some within their own homes, and to some at their place of employment. The use of words to bully another person is damaging to the victims spirit, and self-esteem. If we recognize within ourselves or our children the tendency to bully, we need to get to the root of what is bothering our child, or what is bothering us. We need to address and resolve whatever insecurity we have that is manifesting itself in the form of verbal bullying.
Adults should do their best not to argue. If we feel we can't avoid an argument then let's make certain we don't conduct it in front of children. When people argue the words they choose aren't always what they truly feel, and children take things literally. When children witness arguments where hurtful words are exchanged, it leaves a lasting impact on them. Some people when they argue choose to use the most hurtful words they can spew in the heat of the moment, and they will incorporate a subject into the argument they know hurts the person they are arguing with deeply. This happens despite the fact, that the hurtful thing that has been thrown into the arena has absolutely nothing to do with the initial disagreement. When this occurs, the argument becomes larger and more than likely remains off topic, often times resulting in people failing to recall what they were in disagreement about to begin with.
We as Christians need to choose our words wisely. Many arguments could have been avoided by someone choosing the right words to say at the right time. If you become angry take a moment to calm down before you speak, as this could result in you making a better word choice with which to respond. We should use words that encourage, and uplift others. We should use words that instill confidence, and build self-esteem. There are several ways in which words can be used to make a positive impact on those around us. Words can be used to defuse a situation, to express love, and to lift a persons spirit. I would like to encourage you today to think about what you say before you say it. Taking the time to choose our words wisely, can make a tremendous difference in the way others respond to us, and the impact we have on them.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so.
The above scripture reminds us of the power words hold. It tells us that they can be used to pierce like a sword, and that they can be used for good. Often times people fail to consider the power words have and that the manner in which we choose to use them can have a tremendous impact on those around us.
There are adults who as children were the victims of verbal bullying in school, and the pain caused by that experience remains with them today. Bullying happens to adults also. It happens to some within their own homes, and to some at their place of employment. The use of words to bully another person is damaging to the victims spirit, and self-esteem. If we recognize within ourselves or our children the tendency to bully, we need to get to the root of what is bothering our child, or what is bothering us. We need to address and resolve whatever insecurity we have that is manifesting itself in the form of verbal bullying.
Adults should do their best not to argue. If we feel we can't avoid an argument then let's make certain we don't conduct it in front of children. When people argue the words they choose aren't always what they truly feel, and children take things literally. When children witness arguments where hurtful words are exchanged, it leaves a lasting impact on them. Some people when they argue choose to use the most hurtful words they can spew in the heat of the moment, and they will incorporate a subject into the argument they know hurts the person they are arguing with deeply. This happens despite the fact, that the hurtful thing that has been thrown into the arena has absolutely nothing to do with the initial disagreement. When this occurs, the argument becomes larger and more than likely remains off topic, often times resulting in people failing to recall what they were in disagreement about to begin with.
We as Christians need to choose our words wisely. Many arguments could have been avoided by someone choosing the right words to say at the right time. If you become angry take a moment to calm down before you speak, as this could result in you making a better word choice with which to respond. We should use words that encourage, and uplift others. We should use words that instill confidence, and build self-esteem. There are several ways in which words can be used to make a positive impact on those around us. Words can be used to defuse a situation, to express love, and to lift a persons spirit. I would like to encourage you today to think about what you say before you say it. Taking the time to choose our words wisely, can make a tremendous difference in the way others respond to us, and the impact we have on them.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Respect
I Timothy 1:1-2 (KJV) Says "Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity."
There are many verses in the Bible that instruct us to respect our elders, and one another. When we show disrespect toward another person, we are doing so to someones Father, Mother, Sister, Brother, Son, Daughter, Grandmother, or Grandfather. We should consider that the next time we are tempted to be disrespectful. We want our family members and friends treated with kindness and respect, and we want to be respected as well. Therefore, we should be mindful of how we treat people.
I grew up in an era where tremendous importance was placed upon respecting one's elders, and failing to do so resulted in disciplinary action by one's parents. In today's world, however, if respect were a wild animal, it would be placed on the endangered species list. In the public arena I've seen children disrespect their parents, and grandparents while they sit quietly stunned, never attempting to correct the child. I've witnessed adults disrespecting there elders, and scoffing at any piece of advice they attempt to give them. They fail to consider that someone who has lived longer than they have may be able to offer advice gained from experience, which could prevent them from making a huge mistake.
I've seen parents disrespecting their children by speaking to them in a manner that is horrendous, and then expect the child to have respect for them. Children are human beings, and therefore, they have feelings just as adults do. I've seen young adults disrespect their own parents in front of their children, and then insist that their children respect them. If you honestly believe that the old adage "do as I say and not as I do" is effective, I believe you are sadly mistaken, and are kidding yourself for convenience. When you behave in a manner that sets a bad example for your children, how do you think that appears to them? To instruct them to do one thing, and show them another via your own behavior is hypocrisy. Where do we think they get the idea it is acceptable to behave in a disrespectful manner? We should set examples for the children in our lives to follow, and if we are not doing that we need to correct our own behavior before we attempt to correct our children.
It is not uncommon to hear cursing or distasteful jokes come out of people's mouths no matter who is in their midst, and their words seem to flow as easy as if they were saying good morning. It is not uncommon to see someone race past an elder to enter a store, and then allow the door to close directly in the elders face in lieu of holding it open for them. I've seen people speed past an elder attempting to make it across a parking lot nearly striking them with their vehicle instead of stopping, and allowing them to cross. The displays of disrespect I have witnessed in the public are far to numerous to mention here. The important point is that disrespect is running rampant, and it is disheartening.
Respect your elders, hold a door open for them, allow them to cross the parking lot at the pace in which they are able, and be patient about it. If you are blessed with long life, one day you will be an elder, and hopefully others will wait patiently while you cross the parking lot. Respect your children, and teach them to be respectful by example. Respect your friends, co-workers, and peers. When we fail to be respectful, it makes one individual appear to be of bad character, and that individual is the person showing the disrespect. If we want to be respected, we must conduct ourselves in a manner that warrants it; by behaving in a respectful manner ourselves. Respect is earned.
There is no doubt that the world could use more respect, love, and kindness. I would like to encourage you to be polite and respectful to others, it's painless, it is of good character, and it is pleasing to our Father in Heaven.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
There are many verses in the Bible that instruct us to respect our elders, and one another. When we show disrespect toward another person, we are doing so to someones Father, Mother, Sister, Brother, Son, Daughter, Grandmother, or Grandfather. We should consider that the next time we are tempted to be disrespectful. We want our family members and friends treated with kindness and respect, and we want to be respected as well. Therefore, we should be mindful of how we treat people.
I grew up in an era where tremendous importance was placed upon respecting one's elders, and failing to do so resulted in disciplinary action by one's parents. In today's world, however, if respect were a wild animal, it would be placed on the endangered species list. In the public arena I've seen children disrespect their parents, and grandparents while they sit quietly stunned, never attempting to correct the child. I've witnessed adults disrespecting there elders, and scoffing at any piece of advice they attempt to give them. They fail to consider that someone who has lived longer than they have may be able to offer advice gained from experience, which could prevent them from making a huge mistake.
I've seen parents disrespecting their children by speaking to them in a manner that is horrendous, and then expect the child to have respect for them. Children are human beings, and therefore, they have feelings just as adults do. I've seen young adults disrespect their own parents in front of their children, and then insist that their children respect them. If you honestly believe that the old adage "do as I say and not as I do" is effective, I believe you are sadly mistaken, and are kidding yourself for convenience. When you behave in a manner that sets a bad example for your children, how do you think that appears to them? To instruct them to do one thing, and show them another via your own behavior is hypocrisy. Where do we think they get the idea it is acceptable to behave in a disrespectful manner? We should set examples for the children in our lives to follow, and if we are not doing that we need to correct our own behavior before we attempt to correct our children.
It is not uncommon to hear cursing or distasteful jokes come out of people's mouths no matter who is in their midst, and their words seem to flow as easy as if they were saying good morning. It is not uncommon to see someone race past an elder to enter a store, and then allow the door to close directly in the elders face in lieu of holding it open for them. I've seen people speed past an elder attempting to make it across a parking lot nearly striking them with their vehicle instead of stopping, and allowing them to cross. The displays of disrespect I have witnessed in the public are far to numerous to mention here. The important point is that disrespect is running rampant, and it is disheartening.
Respect your elders, hold a door open for them, allow them to cross the parking lot at the pace in which they are able, and be patient about it. If you are blessed with long life, one day you will be an elder, and hopefully others will wait patiently while you cross the parking lot. Respect your children, and teach them to be respectful by example. Respect your friends, co-workers, and peers. When we fail to be respectful, it makes one individual appear to be of bad character, and that individual is the person showing the disrespect. If we want to be respected, we must conduct ourselves in a manner that warrants it; by behaving in a respectful manner ourselves. Respect is earned.
There is no doubt that the world could use more respect, love, and kindness. I would like to encourage you to be polite and respectful to others, it's painless, it is of good character, and it is pleasing to our Father in Heaven.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Honor Thy Mother
Exodus 20:12 (KJV) Says, "Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." This is one of the ten commandments.
I want to take the opportunity to point out the importance of honoring our Mother's. As you can see from the above scripture, it is important enough for God to have made it a commandment. If we have been blessed with a Mother that has loved and nurtured us into adulthood, we should desire to honor them, and it should come from our hearts. I don't think we take the time to consider all they have done for us in our lifetime, and to tell them how grateful we are and how much they are appreciated.
Our Mothers carry us for nine months, during which time they experience nausea and vomiting, swelling, discomfort, lack of sleep, and many other issues. It is also necessary that they go to the doctor multiple times, and we all know what fun that is. Next they give birth to us, and although I have not experienced childbirth personally I have witnessed it, and it does not in any way resemble a picnic. They go through all of this just to get us here.
After we arrive into the world, sleep as our Mother's knew it is over. If we are not waking them up crying because we are hungry, then they are sleeping lightly in order to listen for any move we may make. They diaper us, feed us, bath us, dress us, and take us to the doctor for our check-ups. They are there for us day and night nursing us when we are sick, monitoring our fevers, giving us medication, holding us, singing us to sleep, telling us bedtime stories, and helping us say our prayers as they tuck us into bed at night, all the while having no regard whatsoever for their own well-being.
They cry as we enter the doors of school for the first time, and they are eagerly waiting to hear how our day went each afternoon. They listen to ever detail as we speak, because as loving Mother's they truly want to hear every word we have to say. They share comforting words when our feelings are hurt, and bandage the boo-boo's we sustain.
Whatever sport or other activities we choose to engage in our Mother's give us a tremendous amount of support. They attend each event where they smile, applaud, and tell us how very proud they are, and what a great job we did. Our Mother's are our number one fan.
They wait up on us at night when we become teenagers, because they can't sleep until they know we're at home safe and sound. They're emotional when we graduate high school and college, as they realize their baby is growing up. It breaks their heart when we move out, yet they understand we are now young adults with life plans of our own. They are filled with mixed emotions on our wedding day because in their eyes we will always be their baby. They expand their love to include our spouse, and they love and treasure the grandchildren they're blessed with.
I would like to encourage you to take the time to HONESTLY consider all your Mother has done, and does do for you. God blessed me with a wonderful Mother, and I am so very grateful for her. I am an identical twin, and I have three other siblings so my Mother raised five children in all. She worked so hard, only stopping for a little sleep. She took us to Sunday School, Church, and Vacation Bible School, where we each grew to love the Lord. She made certain we had clean clothes, homemade dinners complete with homemade dessert, a clean house to live in, she was our number one fan present at every event we participated in, and the list goes on and on. She has made certain we know that she is there for us always, that she will stand up for us when we are right, and correct us when we are wrong. She recognized our different personalities, and our different needs, and she met them all on an individual basis with tremendous love and understanding.
I merely scratched the surface when it comes to listing all of the things our Mother's do for us. Words cannot possibly convey how much I love my Mother, and how much I respect and appreciate her. I am so grateful to have been blessed with such a beautiful gift. I am not surprised that God chose to make honoring our Mother's a commandment. It is crystal clear to me that they are more than deserving of our honor and respect.
God bless my Mother, all of the wonderful Mother's in my family, among my friends, and in the world. I personally have a tremendous amount of honor and respect for each one of you.
For those of you whose Mother's have gone home to be with the Lord, may you reflect on and find comfort in the cherished memories that remain in your hearts. I have since writing this blog lost my Mama, and therefore I know the pain. She went home to be with the Lord on January 10, 2022. I love and miss her more than words could ever possibly convey.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
I want to take the opportunity to point out the importance of honoring our Mother's. As you can see from the above scripture, it is important enough for God to have made it a commandment. If we have been blessed with a Mother that has loved and nurtured us into adulthood, we should desire to honor them, and it should come from our hearts. I don't think we take the time to consider all they have done for us in our lifetime, and to tell them how grateful we are and how much they are appreciated.
Our Mothers carry us for nine months, during which time they experience nausea and vomiting, swelling, discomfort, lack of sleep, and many other issues. It is also necessary that they go to the doctor multiple times, and we all know what fun that is. Next they give birth to us, and although I have not experienced childbirth personally I have witnessed it, and it does not in any way resemble a picnic. They go through all of this just to get us here.
After we arrive into the world, sleep as our Mother's knew it is over. If we are not waking them up crying because we are hungry, then they are sleeping lightly in order to listen for any move we may make. They diaper us, feed us, bath us, dress us, and take us to the doctor for our check-ups. They are there for us day and night nursing us when we are sick, monitoring our fevers, giving us medication, holding us, singing us to sleep, telling us bedtime stories, and helping us say our prayers as they tuck us into bed at night, all the while having no regard whatsoever for their own well-being.
They cry as we enter the doors of school for the first time, and they are eagerly waiting to hear how our day went each afternoon. They listen to ever detail as we speak, because as loving Mother's they truly want to hear every word we have to say. They share comforting words when our feelings are hurt, and bandage the boo-boo's we sustain.
Whatever sport or other activities we choose to engage in our Mother's give us a tremendous amount of support. They attend each event where they smile, applaud, and tell us how very proud they are, and what a great job we did. Our Mother's are our number one fan.
They wait up on us at night when we become teenagers, because they can't sleep until they know we're at home safe and sound. They're emotional when we graduate high school and college, as they realize their baby is growing up. It breaks their heart when we move out, yet they understand we are now young adults with life plans of our own. They are filled with mixed emotions on our wedding day because in their eyes we will always be their baby. They expand their love to include our spouse, and they love and treasure the grandchildren they're blessed with.
I would like to encourage you to take the time to HONESTLY consider all your Mother has done, and does do for you. God blessed me with a wonderful Mother, and I am so very grateful for her. I am an identical twin, and I have three other siblings so my Mother raised five children in all. She worked so hard, only stopping for a little sleep. She took us to Sunday School, Church, and Vacation Bible School, where we each grew to love the Lord. She made certain we had clean clothes, homemade dinners complete with homemade dessert, a clean house to live in, she was our number one fan present at every event we participated in, and the list goes on and on. She has made certain we know that she is there for us always, that she will stand up for us when we are right, and correct us when we are wrong. She recognized our different personalities, and our different needs, and she met them all on an individual basis with tremendous love and understanding.
I merely scratched the surface when it comes to listing all of the things our Mother's do for us. Words cannot possibly convey how much I love my Mother, and how much I respect and appreciate her. I am so grateful to have been blessed with such a beautiful gift. I am not surprised that God chose to make honoring our Mother's a commandment. It is crystal clear to me that they are more than deserving of our honor and respect.
God bless my Mother, all of the wonderful Mother's in my family, among my friends, and in the world. I personally have a tremendous amount of honor and respect for each one of you.
For those of you whose Mother's have gone home to be with the Lord, may you reflect on and find comfort in the cherished memories that remain in your hearts. I have since writing this blog lost my Mama, and therefore I know the pain. She went home to be with the Lord on January 10, 2022. I love and miss her more than words could ever possibly convey.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
A Helping Hand
In Luke 14:13-14 (KJV) Jesus says "But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just."
We should help one another in whatever ways possible, when it is within our power to do so. We should be willing to offer assistance to others based on the desire to fulfill the need of our fellow man, not for our potential gain. Jesus tells us in the above scripture to help those who can offer us absolutely nothing in exchange. In the world today we frequently see or hear stories about people helping only those who can do something for them in return. This is becoming all to common, and that is made obvious by the expressions on the faces of those we do offer to help, wanting nothing in return.
The next time you volunteer to help someone, notice the look on their face. It is most often one of skepticism, doubt, and disbelief. Their demeanor goes from friendly to leery, and in their mind they immediately begin running through the benefits you might be hoping to gain from doing so. They begin thinking things like Why would you want to help me? What do you want from me? What is your motive? The world is in a sad state of affairs when we offer someone a helping hand and they get a look on their face that suggests they don't know whether to accept our offer or call 911.
The point is that we should help people for the sole purpose of helping them, simply because we have it in our heart to do so. Jesus tells us in the above scripture that if we do something for someone who cannot return the favor, we will be blessed, and recompensed for it at the resurrection of the just. I would like to encourage you to help someone who has a need, and can offer you absolutely nothing in return. It will be pleasing to God, It will bring you and the person you help tremendous joy. Helping others is a wonderful experience.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you leave me a message, and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
We should help one another in whatever ways possible, when it is within our power to do so. We should be willing to offer assistance to others based on the desire to fulfill the need of our fellow man, not for our potential gain. Jesus tells us in the above scripture to help those who can offer us absolutely nothing in exchange. In the world today we frequently see or hear stories about people helping only those who can do something for them in return. This is becoming all to common, and that is made obvious by the expressions on the faces of those we do offer to help, wanting nothing in return.
The next time you volunteer to help someone, notice the look on their face. It is most often one of skepticism, doubt, and disbelief. Their demeanor goes from friendly to leery, and in their mind they immediately begin running through the benefits you might be hoping to gain from doing so. They begin thinking things like Why would you want to help me? What do you want from me? What is your motive? The world is in a sad state of affairs when we offer someone a helping hand and they get a look on their face that suggests they don't know whether to accept our offer or call 911.
The point is that we should help people for the sole purpose of helping them, simply because we have it in our heart to do so. Jesus tells us in the above scripture that if we do something for someone who cannot return the favor, we will be blessed, and recompensed for it at the resurrection of the just. I would like to encourage you to help someone who has a need, and can offer you absolutely nothing in return. It will be pleasing to God, It will bring you and the person you help tremendous joy. Helping others is a wonderful experience.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you leave me a message, and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Slow Down
In Exodus 18:13-27 (KJV) Moses sits and judges the issues, both great and small, of the people of Israel. They came to him in order to inquire as to God's statutes and laws regarding matters they needed settled between them. The line was so great that the people stood waiting their turn from morning until evening. Moses' father-n-law, Jethro, comes to visit him, and he asks Moses why he is doing all of the judging alone. Jethro advises Moses that the way he is handling this task is not good, and that if he continues to judge all the people alone, he will become weary and the people will also. Jethro suggests that Moses select God-fearing men of truth to assist him in this task. He advises Moses to allow the men he selects to handle the small issues the people bring before him, and for Moses himself to handle the large issues. Moses heeds his father-n-laws advice which benefits him, as well as the people, as they no longer had to endure those long lines in order to have there issues settled.
Like Moses so many of us have overloaded our plates, and often it takes someone bringing it to our attention before we are willing to consider a change. When we take on more than we can manage in an appropriate manner, it is a mistake. Squeezing to many things into our schedules has an adverse effect on many areas of our lives, and this is something we often fail to realize.
We have become such a busy society that we have chosen to opt out of important things like sitting down for dinner as a family, in order to get everything on our schedules accomplished. Many people spend a great deal of time running around in an agitated state because they are so overwhelmed. This is not good for our health, it is not good for our families or any of our other relationships for that matter including the most important relationship in our lives and that is the one we have with God. In the end maintaining these hectic schedules seems to be doing more harm than good.
If we are rushing through life doing fifty things a day, then how many of those things are truly getting the attention from us they deserve? How many of those things are we able to give quality time to? How much of our life are we slowing down enough to actually be present in? Does having our plates piled so high benefit us or those around us? Are we so busy that we fail to notice we are not taking time to enjoy our lives, but rather speeding through them in a hectic state?
Moses thought he was doing what was best for the people, but he never considered what he was doing to himself or what those who had come to inquire of him were having to endure. He may never have seen the negative aspects of trying to do everything himself had Jethro not pointed them out to him. When we try to accomplish to much in a short time, what effect is that having on us? On our disposition? On our attitudes, and on those around us?
I feel confident that we have busy schedules because we are trying to do what is best, and pleasing to those we love, but slowing down, taking the time to truly enjoy each others company, and listen to what those we love have going on in their lives is priceless. I encourage you to take the time to review your schedule, and evaluate how you are spending your time. How much of your time is spent in a quality manner vs. the amount spent on quantity? Most importantly how much of your time is being spent to build and maintain a strong personal relationship with God?
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you!
Like Moses so many of us have overloaded our plates, and often it takes someone bringing it to our attention before we are willing to consider a change. When we take on more than we can manage in an appropriate manner, it is a mistake. Squeezing to many things into our schedules has an adverse effect on many areas of our lives, and this is something we often fail to realize.
We have become such a busy society that we have chosen to opt out of important things like sitting down for dinner as a family, in order to get everything on our schedules accomplished. Many people spend a great deal of time running around in an agitated state because they are so overwhelmed. This is not good for our health, it is not good for our families or any of our other relationships for that matter including the most important relationship in our lives and that is the one we have with God. In the end maintaining these hectic schedules seems to be doing more harm than good.
If we are rushing through life doing fifty things a day, then how many of those things are truly getting the attention from us they deserve? How many of those things are we able to give quality time to? How much of our life are we slowing down enough to actually be present in? Does having our plates piled so high benefit us or those around us? Are we so busy that we fail to notice we are not taking time to enjoy our lives, but rather speeding through them in a hectic state?
Moses thought he was doing what was best for the people, but he never considered what he was doing to himself or what those who had come to inquire of him were having to endure. He may never have seen the negative aspects of trying to do everything himself had Jethro not pointed them out to him. When we try to accomplish to much in a short time, what effect is that having on us? On our disposition? On our attitudes, and on those around us?
I feel confident that we have busy schedules because we are trying to do what is best, and pleasing to those we love, but slowing down, taking the time to truly enjoy each others company, and listen to what those we love have going on in their lives is priceless. I encourage you to take the time to review your schedule, and evaluate how you are spending your time. How much of your time is spent in a quality manner vs. the amount spent on quantity? Most importantly how much of your time is being spent to build and maintain a strong personal relationship with God?
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
The Company You Keep
Proverbs 13:20 (KJV) says "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools will be destroyed." This scripture is warning us to be careful who we associate with. The company we keep is very important for so many reasons.
I think most of us are warned about the type people we choose to surround ourselves with from the time we are old enough to understand our parents instructions. We are also born with an instinct that I believe God blesses us with in order to detect when something is unsafe, and when we meet someone who is walking down a path we should not venture down.
We cannot surround ourselves with people who choose to engage in partying, gossiping, making fun of people, judging others, telling dirty jokes, or cursing, just to name a few, and expect it not to have any bearing on our lives. It is one thing to witness to someone who is involved in this type behavior, and quite another to participate in the activity or stand idly by as if their behavior is something we agree with. We are only human, and are therefore, susceptible to temptation, and should not place ourselves in situations that perpetuate the possibility of us giving in to something that we are personally tempted by, knowing our Heavenly Father would not approve of it. For example, if we are surrounded by cursing constantly before long we may be cursing. If we are surrounded by those who love to make people laugh at another persons expense, we are erring by simply standing there and listening, in lieu of saying something or at least walking away. If we stand and listen to someone telling dirty jokes, and we don't politely say something or walk away we are silently condoning it, and are therefore participating in things we should not participate in as Christians. In those type situations, when we react in silence, what type witness are we being? Don't get caught up with others in their wrong doing, and find yourself guilty by association. We are not putting forth our best effort to live a Godly life, if we are surrounding ourselves with, and partaking in things that are ungodly.
First and foremost, when we live our lives in a righteous manner it pleases God. Secondly, when we do so, we can expect God to bless us. If we are not walking with God, and we are doing things that we know are not pleasing to Him, do we really think we deserve for God to reign blessings down on us? Or do we have the right to complain about what God is not doing for us that we feel He should be? We should desire to live our lives in a manner that makes us feel good about who we are as individuals as well. Does it really make anyone feel better to curse? Does it make anyone look good to make fun of another person for whatever reason? To put it in perspective, when you are making fun of, bullying or mistreating another individual in any way, you are doing so to one of God's children, and this is ill advised because God loves his children.
Live your life in a manner that is pleasing to God, in a manner that sets a good Christian example for others, and one that you yourself can feel good about. Our actions play a huge roll in our level of peace within ourselves, if we have a conscience. I know when I offend someone or do something that I regret I have an unrest that interferes with my eating, sleeping, concentration, and my ability to relax. I get no relief until I have apologized to the person I offended, and have ask forgiveness from God for my behavior, and wrong doing.
None of us are perfect, and we should love all mankind with brotherly love, but we are not to climb aboard a sinking ship with individuals who have no desire to stay a float, and go down with them. We should witness to them, and set examples for them, but we are not to put ourselves in a position to hinder our own walk with God. It is important that we fellowship with other Christians also as it enables us to be uplifting to one another, and encourage one another in Christ. The world is full of temptation, and those who will attempt to sway you in your beliefs. I encourage you to continue in brotherly love toward all mankind, continue to be a witness to others, and remember to be mindful of the company you keep.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
I think most of us are warned about the type people we choose to surround ourselves with from the time we are old enough to understand our parents instructions. We are also born with an instinct that I believe God blesses us with in order to detect when something is unsafe, and when we meet someone who is walking down a path we should not venture down.
We cannot surround ourselves with people who choose to engage in partying, gossiping, making fun of people, judging others, telling dirty jokes, or cursing, just to name a few, and expect it not to have any bearing on our lives. It is one thing to witness to someone who is involved in this type behavior, and quite another to participate in the activity or stand idly by as if their behavior is something we agree with. We are only human, and are therefore, susceptible to temptation, and should not place ourselves in situations that perpetuate the possibility of us giving in to something that we are personally tempted by, knowing our Heavenly Father would not approve of it. For example, if we are surrounded by cursing constantly before long we may be cursing. If we are surrounded by those who love to make people laugh at another persons expense, we are erring by simply standing there and listening, in lieu of saying something or at least walking away. If we stand and listen to someone telling dirty jokes, and we don't politely say something or walk away we are silently condoning it, and are therefore participating in things we should not participate in as Christians. In those type situations, when we react in silence, what type witness are we being? Don't get caught up with others in their wrong doing, and find yourself guilty by association. We are not putting forth our best effort to live a Godly life, if we are surrounding ourselves with, and partaking in things that are ungodly.
First and foremost, when we live our lives in a righteous manner it pleases God. Secondly, when we do so, we can expect God to bless us. If we are not walking with God, and we are doing things that we know are not pleasing to Him, do we really think we deserve for God to reign blessings down on us? Or do we have the right to complain about what God is not doing for us that we feel He should be? We should desire to live our lives in a manner that makes us feel good about who we are as individuals as well. Does it really make anyone feel better to curse? Does it make anyone look good to make fun of another person for whatever reason? To put it in perspective, when you are making fun of, bullying or mistreating another individual in any way, you are doing so to one of God's children, and this is ill advised because God loves his children.
Live your life in a manner that is pleasing to God, in a manner that sets a good Christian example for others, and one that you yourself can feel good about. Our actions play a huge roll in our level of peace within ourselves, if we have a conscience. I know when I offend someone or do something that I regret I have an unrest that interferes with my eating, sleeping, concentration, and my ability to relax. I get no relief until I have apologized to the person I offended, and have ask forgiveness from God for my behavior, and wrong doing.
None of us are perfect, and we should love all mankind with brotherly love, but we are not to climb aboard a sinking ship with individuals who have no desire to stay a float, and go down with them. We should witness to them, and set examples for them, but we are not to put ourselves in a position to hinder our own walk with God. It is important that we fellowship with other Christians also as it enables us to be uplifting to one another, and encourage one another in Christ. The world is full of temptation, and those who will attempt to sway you in your beliefs. I encourage you to continue in brotherly love toward all mankind, continue to be a witness to others, and remember to be mindful of the company you keep.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
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