Sisters Serving the Lord

I Corinthians 12:4-7 (KJV) Says, "Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."

In the above passage of scripture it is made clear that God gives each and every one of us gifts to be used in service to Him. Although these gifts vary from person to person, each and every one of them is important. Being born with free will, however,  it is up to us to opt to ask God to work through us utilizing our gifts and talents in service to Him. This blog offers a great example of how powerful and long lasting an impact opting to use your talents and gifts for the Lord can truly have. 

I want to share with you what God shared with me this morning through a group of gospel singing sisters,The Ballew Sisters, who opted to step out in faith and use the gifts and talent that God gave them to serve Him and bless others.  God blessed each and every one of them with a beautiful voice, and as if these gifts and talents weren't enough individually, when they come together their harmony reaches perfection. God is amazing, and the harmony they share is certainly proof of that. I grew up listening to them sing, and have been blessed by their music for years now. After Church on Sunday mornings my family had dinner at my grandmother's house. After dinner my grandmother, aunt, mom, sisters, and myself would listen to The Ballew Sisters and sing along as we cleaned the kitchen. These are memories I treasure and recall vividly. Their music blessed us then, and it blesses us now. 

My family and I are currently facing a mountain as we all do at times in this life, and during our storms encouragement and reminders of how great our God is are powerful. As we're facing this mountain, I get a package in the mail from One of the Ballew Sisters, Nancy, and it consists of several CD's containing songs recorded by her and her sisters. How blessed I felt to receive such a priceless gift. God's timing is perfect. Being anxious to begin listening to them, I decided to get in my truck, and go for a ride while I enjoyed them. The first CD that I began listening to was titled Mountain Climber. The first song on that CD was titled Mountain Climber, and the lead singer was Janet one of the sisters who has since the recording gone home to be with the Lord. I listened to the entire CD, and found myself listening to that particular song repeatedly; as it is so encouraging, strengthening, and relevant in my life at this time, and in the lives of my family. This song is a great reminder that we don't climb the mountains we face in our lives alone, but that God is right by our side to help us conquer them.

As I pulled back into the driveway the song, Mountain Climber, was coming to an end. I placed my truck in park, and sat there in the quiet for a moment feeling grateful for the encouragement I had just received through music. In the silence that followed, God showed me that this song and these sisters, Carolyn, Janet, Joy, Nancy, Patsy, and Suzy have made a powerful impact by choosing to use the talent and gifts He gave them. They've made a powerful impact, not just on the lives of me and my family members, but on the lives of many others. He further made clear to me that Janet and this song are proof that when you use your God given gifts, you continue to bless others even after God calls you home because the fruit of your faithful service to the Lord lives on. I'm grateful to Janet and her sisters for showing us what an encouraging and long lasting impact the gifts and talents God gives us can truly make.

I urge you to use the talents and gifts that God has given you to serve Him, and to love and encourage others. Don't waste all that the Lord has given you, when you could allow Him to work through you to make an important difference in the lives of others, and be a blessing to so many. Trust God and step out in faith knowing that He has equipped you, and He will be with you every step of the way. Like Janet, live your life in a manner that leaves a legacy so great it impacts and blesses others even after God has called you home. 

A special thank you with a heart full of gratitude to God for the blessing of these women and their music, to Janet who's faithful service lives on and continues to uplift and encourage, and to The Ballew Sisters for opting to use their God given talent and gifts to serve the Lord. May God continue to bless them as they continue to bless others.

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!

Offended

Matthew 24:10-12 (KJV) Says, "And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold."

The above passage of scripture is spoken by Jesus as he answers the question posed to him by the disciples as to how they will know when the end of time nears. This passage makes clear that toward the end of time many people will be offended, and we are without a doubt seeing this come to pass. We are living in a world where people are not only easily offended, but they seem to purposefully seek out reasons to be. We are even seeing this in individuals who are self-proclaimed Christians.  If you are a born again believer in Jesus Christ, walking around with a spirit of offense does not fit who you are in Christ. As Christians we should not be easily offended, but rather we should look at all situations with a Christian worldview, and handle all things in a Christ-like manner. People should see in us love, kindness, meekness, understanding, compassion, and other like traits not someone who's walking around with a chip on their shoulder because they have allowed the spirit of offense to consume them. I'm by no means saying that there won't be times when someone says or does something that could result in our being offended. However, when this happens, it is not mandatory that we take the bait, and become offended. As Christians God has given us all we need through prayer and his Word to practice self-discipline, and to control how we receive, and respond to all situations.

The above passage of scripture also warns us that there will be many false prophets who will rise up in the end of time, and deceive many individuals. The Word of God tells us that these false prophets will deceive even some Christians. This is why it is so vitally important that we read and study God's Word for ourselves. When we read and study God's Word then we come to know exactly what it says, and will not be swayed from it, but rather will stand firm in it in it's entirety. We are seeing even Christians falling prey to false teaching in the world today. One example is found in some coming to believe that only a select few will make it to heaven, and those individuals have been chosen. This belief is easily disputed by many verses of scripture found in the Bible, and one example of those verses is John 3:16. This is a verse most learn as a small child, and it clearly states that WHOSOEVER believes on the Lord Jesus Christ shall be saved. When you are listening to someone teach or preach or you are reading any religious based material other than the Bible make certain that what you are hearing or reading coincides with the Word of God.

The above passage of scripture also tells us that in the end of time the world will be so full of sin that the love of many will wax cold. This is also something that we are witnessing in abundance. This too is seen among many self-proclaimed Christians, and that is a dire shame considering God by definition is love. We are seeing the love of many spouses waxing cold toward one another, we are seeing  love between some family members waxing cold, we are witnessing love between friends waxing cold, and we are even seeing love that should come naturally between parents and children fading into what seems to be non existent.

As born again believers in Jesus Christ, we should not allow offense to enter our life and consume us; rendering us useless as his disciples. We must study to know the truth of God's Word, and stand firm in it so we don't fall prey to false prophets. We should have no problem loving others as we should have the desire in our hearts, having the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, to love everyone as Christ loves us. In fact, the second greatest commandment given to us, out of the mouth of Jesus himself, is to love one another as he loves us.

I urge you to avoid allowing yourself to be offended, and to remind yourself that walking in the spirit of offense destroys your effectiveness as a disciple of Christ. I urge you to read and study God's Word for yourself and to stand firm in it in order to ensure you do not fall prey to a false prophet. I further urge you to remember that as a born again believer in Jesus Christ you are commanded to love others as Jesus loves you. You don't have to take my word for the fact that we are living in a world where these signs of the end of time are taking place, but rather all you have to do for confirmation is to look around.

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.

Holding On

II Corinthians 5:17 (KJV) Says, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Romans 8:5 (KJV) Says, "For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit."

The above verse of scripture taken from II Corinthians plainly states that once we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we become a new person, and that old things pass away. As new found believers we are on fire for Jesus, spend time praising him, thanking him, praying, reading his word, worshiping him, and having fellowship with other Christians. Another point this verse of scripture makes is that the moment we are born again old things pass away, as we no longer have the desire to live a life of disobedience to God.

We must be mindful to keep God first in our lives, and to make a conscience effort to spend time in personal devotion with him on a daily basis. It is of the utmost importance that we spend time daily praying, reading God's word, and listening to him for guidance, and direction in our lives. Unfortunately, many Christians at some point during their walk with God begin to drift away from him. This happens with some long time believers, as well as some that are new to Christ. There are many reasons for falling away none for which God is to blame. Some claim they have no time to spend with God because they are simply to busy. We should NEVER be to busy for God, but if we feel we are, then we need to clear a space for him in our schedule immediately. If we fail to nurture our personal relationship with God then we can prepare ourselves, because we are headed for disaster. When our personal relationship with God is not what it should be, then we become weak in the flesh, and we will give in to temptation very easily. Before long we begin convincing ourselves that various sins are so small they don't really matter, and that they are somehow okay knowing full well as born again Christians that they're not. We are also fully aware that when we conscientiously sin  we are doing something we should not be doing. If for some unknown reason we're not aware of it, then the Holy Spirit within us will certainly let us know.

The above verse of scripture taken from Romans tells us that those who are out to please the desires of the flesh are focused on the desires of the flesh. If you are focused on the things of this world then you cannot be focused on God. As this verse of scripture also states, those that have the desire to live in obedience to God are focused on the things of the Spirit. We cannot be focused on both at the same time. We must choose between living in obedience to God, and living in disobedience to him. We can't straddle the fence, and call ourselves followers of Jesus Christ. We cannot live in disobedience to God, and then question why things are going wrong in our lives, at least not if we are being honest with ourselves. Jesus set a perfect example for us on how to live our lives in a righteous manner, and his instructions are well documented in God's word.
 
Numerous times I've heard people moan, groan, and complain about how things are going for them in their lives. Amid all the moaning, groaning, and complaining, however, it is rare to hear anyone step up and admit that they have walked away from God, and that having done so has led to havoc in their lives. Most don't mention their relationship with Christ, and behave as though they are clueless that there are consequences for every action.

If you are a long time follower of Christ, or a new believer that has known sin in your life, and you are aware that you need to deal with it, I urge you to do so immediately. If you are aware of sin in your life, but have somehow convinced yourself that it's small enough not to count, then I urge you to stop lying to yourself. We all sin that is certain because we are only human, but to sin and continue in sin knowingly is a path that leads to destruction. I encourage you to ask yourself these questions: What sin do I have in my life that I know I need to turn away from, and ask forgiveness for? Why am I holding onto to something that is interfering with my relationship with Christ? Why am I holding on to something that prevents God from blessing me? Why am I holding on to something that is preventing me from having the greatest life I could possibly have?

 If you want the many blessings God has waiting for you and to live the best life possible, then I urge you to live in obedience to God. Walking with God brings the greatest joy, peace, and comfort that you will ever know. It is up to us to choose whether we will follow our fleshly desires or those of  the Spirit, but when we are choosing we must remember that we absolutely cannot walk with God, and hold hands with the devil.

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.

Accepting Christ

John 3:16 (KJV) Says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." II Peter 3:9 (KJV) Says, "The Lord is not slack concerning his  promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." Romans 10:9 (KJV) Says, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God has raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."

The above verse of scripture taken from the book of John clearly explains that God sent his only Son to die for each and every one of us on the cross. Jesus being himself perfect and sinless came to earth in the flesh to pay our sin debt in full. Take a moment to consider how powerful that is. Consider how Jesus suffered for me and for you. He was beaten, whipped, spit on, forced to wear a crown of thorns on his head, mocked, nailed to the cross, offered vinegar to drink while hanging there, and was pierced in the side. Truly pondering these facts leaves no doubt that he loves each one of us tremendously so much so that he went through brutal torment for each of us. He died on the cross for our sins, and was raised from the dead the third day in order that we might spend eternity in Heaven, if we will only choose to accept God's precious gift of salvation.

The above verse of scripture taken from II Peter makes clear that it is not God's will that any person should perish, but rather he desires that each of us choose to become born again believers in Jesus Christ, and spend eternity with him in Heaven. God created each of us with freewill, and therefore it is up to us as to whether or not we opt to accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior. God will not force us to be born again we must choose it for ourselves desiring it in our heart. A great visual of Jesus waiting on us is found in  the painting of him standing at a door with no door knob on his side. That is symbolic of the fact that  he will not open the door to your heart and come in uninvited. He is standing at the door of your heart knocking waiting for you to choose to ask him in. 

God's precious gift of salvation is available to anyone who desires to accept it. As the verse of scripture taken from John says "whosoever believeth" and as the verse from II Peter says God doesn't desire that even one person should perish. God's desire is that every person choose to be born again, and spend eternity with him in Heaven.

Accepting Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior is not a complicated process. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Romans makes clear what is necessary to be saved, and that is to confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead. The process is that simple, and yet it is the most vital decision you will ever make in your lifetime because where you spend eternity depends on it.

If you haven't accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, I urge you to do so immediately. If you believe in your heart that Jesus died on the cross for your sins, and that he rose again, and you are willing to confess the Lord Jesus with your mouth then I urge you to stop where you are, and ask Jesus Christ into your heart making him your personal Lord and Savior.

If you are sincere in wanting to become a born again believer in Jesus Christ, go to God in prayer and say simply, God I know I'm a sinner, and I ask you to please forgive me of all my sins. I believe that Jesus Christ is your Son. I believe that he died on the cross for my sins, and that he rose again. I want to trust and follow him, and I ask that he come into my heart, and be my personal Lord and Savior. Guide my life, and help me to do your will. In Jesus precious name I pray Amen.

If you prayed the above prayer with the sincere desire in your heart to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, God bless you. I encourage you to pray daily and talk to God as you would a friend because he is the best friend you'll ever have. I urge you to read and study God's Word and to meditate on it. I encourage you  to attend worship services if at all possible, and to fellowship with other Christians.

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!

The Just and the Unjust

Matthew 5:45 (KJV) Says, "That ye may be the children of your Father which is in Heaven:  For he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." Ecclesiastes 12:14 (KJV) Says, "For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil." Psalm 37:1-2 (KJV) Says, "Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like grass, and wither as the green herb." Deuteronomy 31:8 (KJV) Says, "And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:  fear not, neither be dismayed."

It is no secret that the world we live in consists of good, and of evil, and as the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Matthew tells us the sun rises on both, and it rains on both. I couldn't tell you how many times I've heard people talking about how others they know to be living their lives in sin seem to be receiving multiple blessings. I've heard things like they're at a different bar every night cursing and getting drunk while I'm doing my best to walk in obedience to God, and they have far more than I'll ever have. They have two new vehicles, and I'm driven one that breaks down at least once a week. I live in a small house, and they live in a mansion. They go on multiple vacations every year while I can't afford cable television for entertainment. The list of statements like these that I've heard people utter is at least a mile long. The truth is, however, things are not always as they seem. The above verses of Scripture taken from Psalm 37 tell us not to fret because of those who do evil. Fret by definition means to worry over or be anxious about. We are further instructed here not to be envious of workers of iniquity. Iniquity by definition means being immoral or demonstrating unfair behavior. These verses of scripture go on to tell us that those who choose to live their lives in an unjust manner will be cut down like grass, and will wither like a green herb.

As we see in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Ecclesiastes, God will judge each of us on all we do, and have done whether good or evil. This fact in and of itself is enough to make clear  that those who are living unjustly and seem to have it all are creating an illusion because whether in this life, on judgment day, or while on earth they will reap the consequences for the evil they have done.

The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Deuteronomy tells us that the Lord walks before us, that he is with us, and that he will never fail us or forsake us. It tells us also not to be afraid or troubled. When we truly ponder that as children of Almighty God we have these promises and more given to us in his Word, then we can clearly recognize that evil could never prevail over us. Living a just life offers things of far more value than any material thing we could ever obtain on earth, in fact it offers things that are absolutely priceless. If someone goes through life being rude, unkind, selfish, and self-serving, and they own five vehicles, four mansions, and all the luxuries this world has to offer without having come to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior, then they have missed out on the most valuable thing ever offered to mankind, and it's freely given to us. Nothing can compare to having Almighty God walk beside us as we journey through this life. Nothing can compare to the hope we have knowing that we will spend eternity in Heaven with Jesus Christ.

I am well aware that as we go through life here on earth we see bad things happen to good people. God sees and knows it too. The Bible tells us that we will have trials and tribulations in this world, but to be of good cheer because God has overcome the world. There is a major difference in how born again believers in Jesus Christ walk through their storms, and the manner in which the lost walk through theirs. That major difference is that born again believers in Jesus Christ NEVER walk through the storms they face alone.

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!

Your Needs

Matthew 6:31-32 (KJV) Says, "Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? for your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things." Luke 12:24 (KJV) Says, "Consider the ravens:  for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse or barn; and God feedeth them:  how much more are ye better than the fowls?" Philippians 4:19 (KJV) Says, "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Romans 8:32 (KJV) Says, "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?"

Many born again believers in Jesus Christ fail to trust God in all things, and stand firm in their faith, when they face trials and tribulations in their life. The Word of God is full of the promises that God has made to us, and he has never nor will he ever break a single one of them. It is easy to say we have faith in God, when things are going smoothly in our lives. The true test of our faith comes when trouble comes our way. The fact is, however, when we are walking in obedience to God and putting our trust in him there is no need to wonder or worry about whether or not he will meet our needs because the fact is he will.

The above verses of scripture taken from the book of Matthew tells us not to worry about food, drink, or how we will be able to get clothing, when we are in need of these things. It is made clear to us here that God knows that we need these things. The verse of scripture taken from the book of Luke tells us to consider the fact that ravens do nothing to obtain food, and that they have no way to store it; yet God feeds them. This verse further points out that if God meets the needs of the ravens, then he will surely meet our needs as we are above birds in importance to him. The verse of scripture taken from the book of Philippians tells us that God will supply all of our needs. Finally, the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Romans reminds us that God didn't spare his Only Son, but gave him up to die on the cross as the ultimate sacrifice for all of our sins. Knowing that he freely gave us the most precious gift of all, Jesus Christ, then how could we ever doubt that he will freely give us all things necessary to meet our needs.

As a born again believer in Jesus Christ, there is no reason whatsoever that we should ever spend time worrying about whether or not our needs will be met. If you are living in obedience to God, then he will certainly meet all of your needs. Don't spend time worrying over how a bill will get paid, what you will eat, whether or not you'll have anything to drink, or whether any other need you have will be met. Instead, stand firm in your faith, trust the promises God's given in his Word that tell you he will meet your needs, and watch him work. He is nothing short of Amazing.

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!

Living in Bondage

Mark 11:25 (KJV) Says, "And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any, that your Father also which is in Heaven may forgive you your trespasses." Ephesians 4:32 (KJV) Says, "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." Hebrews 12:15 (KJV) Says, "Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness spring up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;" Acts 8:23 (KJV) Says, "For I perceive that thou are in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity." James 1:19 (KJV) Says, "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:" Ecclesiastes 7:9 (KJV) Says, "Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry:  for anger resteth in the bosom of fools." James 4:7 (KJV) Says, "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

Many people are living in bondage, and have failed to recognize it. The type of bondage I'm talking about is emotional bondage. It comes in the form of unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, resentment, jealousy, rejection, and other like emotions. In the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Mark we are instructed to forgive others in order for God to forgive us. Ponder for a moment the importance of that. If we don not forgive one another for our trespasses then God will not forgive us for ours. If God being perfect can forgive each of us for our sins then certainly with his help we can forgive one another. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Ephesians also instructs us to forgive one another, and to treat one another with kindness.

The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Hebrews advises us to examine ourselves so that we don't fail of the grace of God, and allow a root of bitterness to grow in us, trouble us, and lead us into sin. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of James instructs us to listen, and to be slow in our response, and not to be quick to get angry. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Acts makes clear that when someone is living in the bondage of bitterness it is easily noticed by those around them. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Ecclesiastes also instructs us not to be hasty to get angry, and that anger rests in the bosom of fools. I think most of us have witnessed someone become angry in a split second, and saw how foolish they look in their anger. Finally, the last verse of scripture listed above also taken from the book of James instructs us to submit ourselves to God, and resist the devil. It also advises us that, if we will resist the devil he will flee from us.

None of the negative emotions that many are in bondage to are from God. They are straight from Satan himself. If we remain in any form of emotional bondage it will impede our walk with God, and none of us want that. Emotional bondage interferes with our prayer life, and it also can prevent God from opening the next door he wants us to walk through in life; as he will wait until we address the issue of our bondage prior to moving us forward. In short, emotional bondage of any sort acts as a roadblock in our personal relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is also vital to recognize that living in bondage to any of these emotions is not pleasing to God, and it does nothing but reek havoc in our lives.

I encourage you to do a self-examination, and truly consider whether or not you are harboring any negative emotion such as anger, bitterness, resentment, jealousy, rejection or the like in your heart, and if so, I urge you to address it. Once you recognize it and identify the source of it; then you can deal with it. If you do discover you are living in bondage to one or more of these emotions take it to the Lord in prayer, and ask him to help you to work through it. If you need to apologize to someone do it. If you need to forgive someone for doing you wrong in some way then please do so. Whatever you discover upon self-examination that has you living in bondage take it to God in prayer immediately, and do what you need to do in order to break out of it. You will be amazed at how freeing it is, and you will then be ready to move forward with all the wonderful things God has planned for your life.

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!

Feeling Defeated

Deuteronomy 20:4 (KJV) Says, "For the Lord your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you." Deuteronomy 31:8 (KJV) Says, "And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:  fear not, neither be dismayed." Philippians 4:13 (KJV) Says, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." John 16:33 (KJV) Says, "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation:  but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." Psalm 108:13 (KJV) Says, "Through God we shall do valiantly: For he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV) Says, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; bur of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

Most, if not all of us have found ourselves feeling defeated at one time or another in our lives. It is easy to become overwhelmed, and begin to feel defeated secondary to the trials, tribulations, and storms we face in our earthly lives. It may be that you lost your job, and you have put in multiple applications day in and day out for months with no results. It may be that your husband, wife, boyfriend, or girlfriend decided after years of being together that they simply don't love you anymore, and you've done all you can to restore your relationship only to be repeatedly rejected. It may be that no matter how hard you work it seems you cannot get ahead financially because just when you begin to see a break something unexpected and costly comes your way.  It may be that you have battled health issues for a long period of time, and you have repeatedly relapsed or can't seem to get better. There are many examples of events in life that can leave a person feeling defeated. If we allow it too, the spirit of defeat will settle in on us, and land us in a state of depression.

The good news is that as Christians we don't ever have to live our lives feeling defeated. It is only when we fail to focus on the fact that God is on our side and that there is nothing beyond his power that we begin to slip into a spirit of defeat. Faith is believing in things that we cannot see, and that includes having faith in the fact that there is no problem so great that God cannot solve it. God can restore your relationships, finances, health, and heal any other area of your life where you are facing a struggle. We cannot lose sight of that fact.

In the above verses of scripture taken from the book of Deuteronomy, we see that the Lord goes with us and fights for us. We see that he goes before us, and that he will not fail us or forsake us. We are instructed not to fear or be dismayed. Dismayed by definition means to feel discouraged, distressed, or troubled, and when we begin to feel defeated these emotions come along with that strengthening our feeling of defeat. The above verse taken from the book of Philippians tells us that there is nothing we can't do with Christ on our side strengthening us. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of John tells us that God is aware that in the world we will face tribulations, but in spite of those he desires for us to have his divine peace. He further instructs us in this verse of scripture to be of good cheer because he has overcome the world. There is not one thing or one person in this world more powerful than Almighty God.  In Psalm 108:13 God's Word tells us that we will do valiantly through him, and that he will tread down our enemies. Finally, in the above verse taken from the book of 2 Timothy God's Word tells us that we are not to walk in the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and of a sound mind. We do not have to live our lives in fear or feeling defeated; wondering how we'll resolve any situation or issue in our lives.  God is all powerful and he is on our side. We have the power of God living in us via the Holy Spirit. When we walk in love and remain focused on God and his promises we will have divine peace, and a sound mind.

The next time you begin to feel defeated, I encourage you to rebuke that feeling immediately. Don't allow the spirit of defeat to come into your life, and cause you to waver in your faith failing to remember all that God is capable of. The moment you begin to feel defeated remember what God's Word promises you. Remember that there is no problem whatsoever so great that God can't handle it. Remember that God loves you tremendously, that he is on your side, that he is walking before you always, and that he is holding your right hand. Take all of your worries and cares to God in prayer, and leave them there. Trust God and the promises he has given us in his Word. God has NEVER broken even one single promise, and he can make a way where we can't see one. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and that means he is still a God of miracles. Walk in love, and remain steadfast in your faith knowing that God is holding you in the palm of his hand.

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!

Emotions

Mark 6:34 (KJV) Says, "And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things." Genesis 6:6 (KJV) Says, "And it repented the Lord that he had made man on earth, and it grieved him at his heart." Matthew 14:14 (KJV) Says, "And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick." Ephesians 4:26 (KJV) Says, "Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down on your wrath:" Mark 3:5 (KJV) Says, "And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other." John 11:33-35 Says, "When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the Spirit, and was troubled. And said, where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see. Jesus wept."

God created human beings with the ability to feel, and experience various emotions. He is, therefore, well aware that we have emotions, and he is in no way upset with us when we express them; as long as we do so in a righteous manner. Jesus himself being sinless and perfect, while here on earth in the flesh, experienced several emotions, and many examples of this are documented in the Word of God. If we as Christians hide our emotions and behave as though we don't feel then we are not being honest with ourselves or those who witness our stoic behavior. If we hope to reach others with the gospel, we must be transparent and openly express our emotions; albeit always in a righteous manner. If we fail to demonstrate that we experience emotions or have feelings we come across as cold and robotic. We can give lost people the impression that it is not okay to have feelings which makes being a Christian appear too difficult and legalistic; prompting them to want no part of Christianity.

In the first verse of scripture used above, Jesus was moved with compassion, and that is an emotion. In the above verse taken from Genesis, We see that the Lord was grieved in his heart, and grief too is an emotion. In the above verse taken from Matthew we see that Jesus was moved with compassion toward a great multitude of people which is again an emotional feeling. In the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Ephesians we see that we are permitted to be angry, but we are instructed not to commit sin in our anger. Having righteous indignation toward a situation or an individual is to be angry at the right person or situation, at the right time, and to handle our anger in a Christ-like manner. In Mark 3:5 we see that Jesus looked around at a group of people with anger and that he was grieved because of the hardness of their hearts. We see in the last passage of scripture listed above which was taken from the book of John that when Jesus saw Mary, and the Jews who came out to meet him weeping, he began to weep with them. Mary and the people were grieving the death of Lazarus who was Mary and Martha's brother. Jesus counted Mary, Martha, and Lazarus among his friends. Here Jesus demonstrates by weeping that he felt compassion for Mary, Martha, and all those who came weeping over the loss of Lazarus. Jesus knew he was going to raise Lazarus from the dead, but he felt a compassion toward all those who were weeping and mourning because they were experiencing great pain secondary to a loved one passing away. They had no idea at that moment Jesus would raise Lazarus from the dead. In Matthew 21:12-13 (KJV) Jesus is angry at the moneychangers in the temple of God, and he turns over their tables and seats.

These a just a few examples of feelings and emotions being expressed by Jesus himself, and there are others given in God's Word. In short, having emotions and actually feeling are perfectly normal. The manner in which we walk through those emotions, and how we handle them, as Christians, is where we see a difference. For example, if someone hurts you and it makes you sad by all means cry, if you need to. Then pray for them and forgive them. If you are mourning the loss of someone you love, by all means cry, Jesus did. When my father passed away it devastated me because I loved him tremendously, and I cried profusely. The difference was that as my twin sister and I were standing at his casket, I was able to say to her that I recognized the only way we were able to stand there and look down on our Daddy was because we had God holding our hand. If you get angry at someone or something that too is normal as long as you are angry at the right person or situation for the right reason, and you handle it in the right way. Don't curse someone out, but rather address the situation or person in a Christlike manner in an attempt to resolve the issue. If you are angry respond in lieu of reacting. Pray about the situation or for the person, and God will place on your heart how he desires for you to respond. Sometimes the best response is silence.

Never deny yourself the right to feel a healthy emotion. Suppressing our feelings is both physically and mentally damaging. Feelings will surface one way or another if we hold them back; whether in a physical manifestation such as high blood pressure or in a mental manifestation such as depression. Take all of your problems to God in prayer, and leave them there. There is no problem to great for him to handle, and he loves you tremendously. Remember this, however, it is normal and necessary to feel and to express emotions. If we internalize our feelings then we are headed for trouble, and we are not demonstrating to the lost that we are human beings who experience sadness, grief, love, compassion, anger, and other emotions just as they do. In short, don't beat yourself up for having feelings and emotions because without them you wouldn't be capable of having compassion and love for others nor would you be able to grieve with those who grieve or rejoice with those who rejoice as the Word of God instructs us to do.

I encourage you to remember the next time you experience anger, grief, pain, sadness, or any other emotion that God is not only walking through your storm with you, but he is holding your right hand. I further encourage you to remember to praise and thank God when things are going well for you, and when you are walking through a storm. I urge you to pray about all things, and to remind yourself that all things work together for good for those who love the Lord. Finally, remember that love is in and of itself an emotion, and God is love.

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!

Why Go to Church?

Hebrews 10:25 (KJV) Says, "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another:  and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Matthew 18:20 (KJV) Says, "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." Exodus 20:8 (KJV) Says, "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy."

The above verses of scripture are just a few of the many found within the pages of God's Word that shine light on the importance of attending Church on a regular basis, and of having a Church family. There are, in fact, many more. The above verse taken from the book of Hebrews advises us not to abandon coming together to worship. It advises us not only to come together, but to lift one another up as well. This verse further advises that the closer the second coming of Jesus Christ is; the more important our assembling together becomes.

I have spoken with many individuals of late who express that they see no reason to attend worship services; nor do they feel that it is necessary to be a part of a Church family. Many have expressed to me that they can have a strong personal relationship with God without attending Church. Most, if not all, of these individuals have shared with me that they attended Church in the past, but were offended by something a congregation member said or did, and this prompted them to leave the Church with no intention of returning.

Let me say that I am not in denial about the fact that there are self-proclaimed Christians in this world who behave toward others in a manner that is far from Christ-like. Christians have been labeled by some as having an attitude of holier than thou, being judgmental, condemning, and in some cases blatantly rude. With that being said, however, it is important that we not allow any individual or group of people to stop us from coming together to Worship in the house of the Lord, and to fellowship with one another. It is important that first we recognize that Churches are made up of human beings, and as such all are fallible. It is also important that we recognize the fact that Satan works through any means possible in order to distance us from God and to prevent us from furthering the gospel and serving him. This includes working through people.

In lieu of opting to stay out of Church, I urge you to recognize the fact that the Christians who behave in this manner are far fewer in number than those who welcome you, and are there for you. I encourage you to remind yourself that the Bible instructs us to come together, and the importance of doing sos. Stand firm in your faith, and continue attending worship services. Stay focused on God and pray for those who offend you with any behavior or speech that is not Christ-like. The truth is a person who claims to be a Christian and then goes about offending people on a regular basis by judging, condemning, pointing fingers, gossiping, being rude, and so forth needs our prayers. Behavior of this nature does nothing to lead people to the Lord, in fact, it pushes them away, and Satan loves it. Don't fall prey to a Church member or small group of Church members of this nature, if you happen to become one of their targets. Recognize them as fallible human beings, pray for them, stay focused on God, and continue in your steadfast walk with him. Leaving Church because of an offense you suffered is to give Satan the victory, and none of us want that.

I encourage you to remember that attending Church and being  part of a Church family is of great importance. It is in worship services that we are blessed with the opportunity to sing and praise the Lord together. It is in Church that we grow in our knowledge of God as we hear his Word preached.  It is in Church that we fellowship with other Christians, and develop relationships with with individuals who share our in our beliefs. Another important thing to remember is that God has given us all various gifts to be used in service to him, and when we come together as believers willing to use our gifts in service to God we can accomplish a great deal more by being part of a team in lieu of flying solo. It is also in Church that we are blessed to witness people come to accept Christ, and that is always a blessing. I'll leave you with two final reasons as to why it is important to attend Church on a regular basis, and to fellowship with other believers; for one because God's Word instructs us to do so, and finally because it is pleasing to him.

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!

Help

Matthew 25:35-40 (KJV) Says, "For I was an hungred, 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 hungred, 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, in as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

In the above passage of scripture taken from the book of Matthew it is  made clear that we are to feed the hungry, give those who are thirsty something to drink, take in those who need a place to stay, give clothes to those in need of them, visit the sick and those in prison. Please note that God says when we do these things for those needing our help we have done it unto him.

Having read this passage of scripture should make crystal clear to us how God would like for us to deal with those who are in need of help. The most common responses I hear and read from people who have come in contact with someone in need, however, do not in anyway coincide with the Word of God. Unfortunately, this is true even of many who are self-proclaimed Christians, and that is a sad state of affairs. I hear and read things like: "I saw a homeless man, and I told him to get a job," "I drove past a woman holding a sign asking for money and she had a child with her; she shouldn't have a child out there begging for money," "I saw someone sleeping in their car in a parking lot and I don't think that should be allowed," "I'm not giving my money; or help to people holding signs; I work hard for my money," "Some guy asked me for money and I know he could work; I saw nothing wrong with him,"and the list of negative remarks goes on and on and on. These type people think they know how the person wound up in the situation they're in, and what steps they should take to get out of it, and whether or not they are frauds. All this is assumed without having any idea as to the person's story. Behaving in this manner toward those who are asking for help is definitely not how a Christian should react, and I can assure you it is not pleasing to God.

I encourage you to look at those who are asking for help using your Jesus eyes, and to respond and react in a manner that is pleasing to God. Stay away from fleshly reactions and comments that are displeasing to God. I encourage you to remain silent  about people asking for help if you have nothing but negative, bitter comments to offer because that would be far better in the eyes of God than judging the person, and launching a verbal attack on the them and their situation. Leave the fakes, who are asking for help they don't need, to God, and allow him to handle them. When you see someone in need of help, offer to pray with them and for them, help them if you can, praise and thank God that you are not in their situation, and think about how you would want others to treat you, if you found yourself in their position. The next time you come in contact with someone in need, I urge you to demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit toward them such as love, kindness, and gentleness just to name a few.  I urge you to behave in a true Christian manner allowing them to see the light of Christ in you so that they may recognize the fact that there is hope in Christ for them no matter their current situation. I urge you to share with them the gospel of Jesus Christ, and to let them know that Jesus loves them right where they are.

It is my hope that when I stand in the presence of God at the end of my earthly life, and he looks on how I treated those in need he will not be disappointed. It is my hope that he will be able to say to me well done my good and faithful servant. What about you?

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!

Alone With God

Luke 6:12 (KJV) Says, "And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God." Matthew 14:23 (KJV) Says, "And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray:  and when the evening was come, he was there alone." Mark 1:35 (KJV) Says, "And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed."

Spending time in silence and solitude with God is of vital importance to our personal relationship with him. It is when we are alone with God that we can pray, read and study his Word, meditate on what we've read and studied, and listen and watch for all that God has to tell us and/or show us without distraction. When we sit alone in silence with God focusing only on him, he also renews our mind, and our Spirit. This time in rest with God also allows us to be hyper aware of his mighty presence, and that in and of itself is a moving experience.

In the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Luke, Jesus had just healed a man with a withered hand, and was being ridiculed for doing so because it was the Sabbath day. He was also preparing for the next day, when he would choose his original twelve disciples. After healing the man's hand note that Jesus went off into a mountain alone to pray, and he prayed to God all night long. He knew he needed God's direction, restoration, and to have his strength renewed. He knew that he would receive all those things by resting alone in the presence of his Father.

In the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Matthew we see that once again Jesus after dealing with multitudes of people, went up into a mountain alone to pray. Note too in this verse that Jesus sent the multitudes away. He didn't deem himself to busy to be alone in prayer with God; he sent the multitudes away making time to spend alone with him. In the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Mark it is written that Jesus got up long before daylight to go to a solitary place to pray. Note Jesus purposefully got up extremely early, long before daylight, in order to spend time alone with God in prayer.

I've listed only a few examples given to us in the Bible of Jesus going off to be alone with God in prayer; there are many more. If Jesus himself felt it was vital to spend time alone with God in prayer, he being the Son of God, don't you think we should think it vital for us, as mere human beings, to do so as well? Do you spend time in silence and solitude with God on a regular basis as Jesus did? Or do you make excuses as to why you don't? Do you deem yourself so busy that you simply don't have time to spend alone with God on a regular basis? Is there anything more important than spending time alone with God in order to build and maintain a strong personal relationship with him, get direction for your life, seek help with the storms you're facing and with the decisions you're faced with, and to be restored and renewed in him? I urge you to consider the vital importance of spending time in silence and solitude with God, and to choose to do so on a regular basis. It is documented within the pages of God's Word, in many places, that Jesus found it of vital importance, and that he made it a priority, do you?

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!

A Bad Rap

Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV) Says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

When a person accepts Jesus Christ, as their personal Lord and Savior, they become a new creature in Christ. As such, others should be able to see the fruits of the Spirit being demonstrated in their actions, and the love of Christ shining through them.

I've had many people share with me that they have met some Christians that after having had a conversation with them or by having observed their behavior left them with no desire to be a part of Christianity. When I hear anyone say this, it breaks my heart. It is a terrible shame that there are self-proclaimed Christians who go about their daily lives behaving in a manner that is far from Christ-like.

Some of the people I have spoken with that have shared a bad experience with a self-proclaimed Christian felt as though the individual they met possessed a "holier than thou" attitude. Others have shared with me that they view Christians as nothing more than "a bunch of hypocrites." Behaving in any manner that indicates we feel we are better than another human being does not fit who we are as born again believers, and followers of Jesus Christ. I've had some tell me they've had an encounter with a Christian who pointed out to them how horrible the sin they committed was, and how unhappy God was about it. It is important that we remember God's Word tells us that no sin is greater than another, and that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. All includes each and every human being in existence. It is also important that we remind ourselves that God created each and every human being in his own image, and that we should never look down upon anyone. I've also heard from people who say they've met Christians who took verses of scripture and threw them in their direction like darts; while standing on their soap box. Some have shared with me that they have had Christians witness to them about Christ whose own manner of living was nothing more than hypocritical. None of this behavior fits who we are in Christ, and none of it is pleasing to God.

In the above verses of scripture we are given the fruits of the Spirit, and these things are what others should clearly see in us. We are to love one another as God loves us, and we are to be of a peaceful Spirit as Jesus left us with his divine peace which passes all understanding before he ascended into Heaven. We should be gentle, kind, and long-suffering following the examples Jesus set for us while he was here on earth in the flesh. We should also demonstrate that we are of strong faith, and be slow to anger. It is important also that we are humble. Remember one of the ways in which Jesus demonstrated the fact that he was a humble servant was by washing the disciples feet. If Jesus Christ can wash the feet of his disciples then we being mere human beings should have no problem following in his footsteps as humble servants.

Behavior of the sort I listed above, demonstrated by self-proclaimed Christians does so much damage, and it is far from Christ-like. It is behavior like this that has given Christianity a bad rap. I encourage you to examine yourself and to be honest with yourself about some of the areas in your life that fail to match up with the fruits of the Spirit, and what being Christian should truly look like. I urge you to make a list of those things, and to go to God in prayer asking him to help you correct what needs correcting. It is vital that we do so because as Christians we are to be witnesses for Christ in the hope that we can lead the lost to accept him as their personal Lord and Savior. The manner in which we live our personal lives on a day to day basis is our greatest testimony, and lost people are watching us.

When others have an encounter with you, what do they witness? Do they experience love, kindness, gentleness, humility, compassion, and other Christ-like characteristics; or do they see someone with a "holier than thou" attitude, standing on a soap box ready to judge them?  How do you treat other people in general? Do others see the love of Christ shining through you? Do they see you walking in God's divine peace? Do they see joy on your face, and in your life? Do they witness you handle storms that arise in a calm, Christ-like manner? Or do they witness you exhibit anger and bitterness when something upsets you? Do you have things in your life that could cause a non-believer to view you as a hypocrite; or does your walk line up with who you profess to be in Christ?

If you have gotten off track and find yourself falling short in living out your Christian life in a manner that makes clear who you are in Christ and that the Holy Spirit dwells within you, then I urge you to go to God in prayer and ask him to help you work on the areas in your life that need work. I encourage you to be a witness for Christ that demonstrates the fruits of the Spirit, and the his love. When we live our lives in a manner that reflects Christ, people notice something different about us, and this true Christian behavior compels them to want what we have. Self-righteous, hypocritical behavior runs people away from the Lord in lieu of drawing them to him; which is what we as Christians should be striving to do. Jesus didn't scream and yell at people, he didn't talk about them behind their backs, he didn't betray his friends, he didn't gossip, he didn't ignore those in need; or act as though he was above them, and he is Jesus Christ. He didn't talk and teach one path, and then walk another. There are many examples of how we are to behave toward others as Christians, set by Jesus himself that are documented within the pages of God's Word. I urge you to follow the examples he set for us on how we are to walk out our lives as Christians, and to be one who demonstrates to the world what true Christian behavior looks like.

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!

Spreading Love

John 13:34 (KJV) Says, "A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." Hebrews 13:16 (KJV) Says, "But to do good and communicate forget not:  for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Philippians 2:4 (KJV) Says, "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others." Galatians 6:2 (KJV) Says, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (KJV) Says, "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow:  but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat:  but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken."

The above verse of scripture taken from the book of John makes clear that we are to love one another as God has loved us, and please note that it is given as a  commandment. The verse of scripture taken from the book of Hebrews reminds us to do good, and that when we do it is pleasing to God. The verse of scripture taken from the book of Philippians tells us not to be solely focused on our own problems, but to look after other people. The verse of scripture taken from the book of Galatians tells us that we are to bear one another's burdens, and that to do so is to fulfill the law of Christ. The verses taken from Ecclesiastes tell us that two are better than one because when one falls the other can help them up, and if one of them has any come against them they will have help from the other one.

As human beings living in a world where Satan roams to and fro looking for people to devour; we all suffer trials and tribulations. The Bible doesn't promise us that we won't suffer these things, in fact, it tells us that we will. The great news is that God is with us every second of every day, and he holds our right hand as we walk through the storms that come our way. He also blessed us with one another to share our burdens, and to pick each other up when anything causes us heartache, and pain; or causes us to stumble.

If we take the time to truly listen to others, pay attention to their facial expression, and look into their eyes; it is easy to recognize, when they are walking through a storm. There are times when we find out that another individual is struggling with something through another person, and there are times when someone will share with us that they are facing a giant in their life. It is what we do when we are made aware that someone is hurting for whatever reason that is of vital importance. As human beings we all have the desire to be loved, understood, heard, comforted, shown compassion, and supported through the storms that come our way. As born again believers in Jesus Christ we should have the desire in our hearts to be there for one another. After all, to be Christian by definition is to be Christ-like, God is love, and love is an action word.

I encourage you to pay closer attention to others, when you interact with them. If you see pain in their eyes and on their face; or if you are aware that they are walking through a storm, reach out to them. Let them know that you love them that you truly and sincerely care about them, and that you are there for them to pray with them, and to help them in any way you can even if it's just to listen. Hear others when they reach out to you, and when I say hear them I mean listen with the intent to grasp where they are coming from, and what they are feeling.

When we fail to reach out and be their for others that we know are in pain or suffering for whatever reason, then we are passing up on an opportunity to demonstrate the light of Christ and his love within us. The next time you come across someone with a look of pain and sadness in their eyes and/or a look of distress across their face, I urge you to reach out to them. I encourage you to pray with them and for them, tell them you love them, and that you are there for them, and show them with your actions that your words are heart felt. There is one thing for certain; there are times in all of our lives, when we need someone to pick us up. I encourage you to be a blessing to others, and to spread the love of Christ whenever you are given the opportunity to do so.

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.

Standing in Awe

Romans 1:20 (KJV) Says, "For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead:; so that they are without excuse."

The above passage of scripture identifies, and makes clear that God not only exists, but that he is the divine creator of all that is. The book of Genesis covers God's divine creation in great detail. If a non-believer in God would simply take  the time to  truly considers how complicated and precise all of creation is, and how so much of nature works in sync they would be hard pressed to continue in their non-belief.

Born again believers in Jesus Christ should also take the time to ponder the magnificence of all that God has created, and experience the awe and wonder that comes along with that experience. Often times we zip through life without taking even a moment to consider all that God has created, how amazing it is, and to praise and thank him for it.

Consider the complicated design of trees, plants, bees, and pollination. Ponder the complicated design of the human body, the miracle of childbirth, and our ability to experience emotions. Consider that two-thirds of the earth is covered with water, and yet it never overtakes us. Think about it, there is no other explanation for why seas and oceans stop at the seashores other than that Almighty God commanded them too. Ponder the miraculous changing of the seasons. Think about how the cold weather controls the insect population, how wildlife has been given the ability to know when to store up food for the winter, and some the knowledge that it is time for them to hibernate. Consider the fact that birds and squirrels have been given the ability to build nests for their families. Ponder the fact that God provides water from heaven in the form of rain for all living things. Consider sunrises, sunsets, the light of the moon and the perfect timing of all light and darkness. I could go on and on listing products of God's complicated and divine design because he has blessed us with so much.

I encourage you to slow down, and take the time to admire and stand in awe of all that God has created. I urge you to consider the complexity, and divine design of all that you hear, and see. The next time you're outdoors surrounded by nature; or standing on a seashore looking at a vast amount of water; pause and truly consider the magnificence of it all. I promise you it will be a blessing, and an amazing experience. I don't think you'll ever look at things in a fast paced way again. As you take it all in, remember to praise and thank God for all that he's given us. He has blessed us in so many ways.

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!

Still A God of Miracles

Hebrews 13:8 (KJV) Says, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever." Proverbs 15:3 (KJV) Says, "The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good." Luke 1:37 (KJV) Says, "For with God nothing shall be impossible." Joshua 1:9 (KJV) Says, "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed:  for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest."

As the we see in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Hebrews, God never changes he is the same today as he was yesterday, and he will remain unchanged. The above verse taken from the book of Proverbs makes clear to us that God sees all things; nothing is hidden from him. The above verse taken from the book of Luke makes clear to us that absolutely nothing is impossible with God, and in the above verse of scripture taken from the book of Joshua God tells us to be strong and not to be stressed or afraid. He tells us that he is with us everywhere we go.

There are times in our lives that we all face trials that we see no way to overcome. The great news is that there is no trial in this world that the Lord God Almighty cannot resolve. He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and he is everywhere.  There is no problem we will ever face that is to big for him to handle. Whatever trials come against us in this life, whether it be a health crisis, financial struggles, family problems, divorce, heartache, pain, job loss, or any other issue; God can turn things around. He is a loving, compassionate, God, and a God of restoration.

Keeping in mind that God never changes consider some of the miracles he performed that are documented for us in his Word, and rest assured that he is still the same God. For example in Genesis we find an elderly couple blessed with a biological child, In the book of Exodus God parts the Red Sea for a nation of people to walk across it, in II Kings he heals a man of leprosy, in the book of Daniel he rescues three men out of a fiery furnace, in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John he feeds over 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish, and in the book of John he raises a man from the dead. These are just a few of the miracles documented for us in God's Word there are many more examples given throughout the Bible.

Are you facing a trial in your life that you see no way to overcome? Are you at a place where you see no way out? Have you found yourself in a state of worry and despair? Are you losing hope?  If so, no matter your trial, I urge you to take it to God in prayer, give it to him, and leave it there knowing that with him NOTHING is impossible. Remember God loves you, he hears your prayers, and that he will NEVER leave you nor forsake you. He is holding your hand, and he won't let go. Remember he NEVER changes, and that he is still in the miracle business.

If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be happy to do so. May God bless you!

Whiners in the Wilderness

Exodus 16:2-3 (KJV) Says "And the whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness. And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger. " Exodus 17:3 (KJV) Says "And the people thirsted there for water; and the people murmured against Moses, and said Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?"

Exodus 12:40-41(KJV) Tells us that the Israelites were slaves in Egypt for 430 years. During that time they experienced hard labor, physical beatings, having their male children taken away and put to death upon their birth, and other such hardships. You would think that when the Lord called Moses to lead them out of Egypt they would have been so grateful to God that they could hardly contain themselves. You would think their level of excitement would have been off the charts, and their faith and trust in him would have been unwavering. Maybe it was briefly, but as the above scripture indicates their excitement didn't last very long before it was replaced with murmuring, doubt, lack of faith, whining and complaining.

Before the Israelites were actually led out of bondage they witnessed the power of God firsthand through the many plagues he brought upon Egypt, when Pharaoh repeatedly refused to let them go. They had witnessed God parting the red sea, and bringing it together again upon the Egyptians who were pursuing them. They witnessed all these mighty works yet they still whined, complained, and showed a tremendous lack of faith in the wilderness, and they did so on many occasions.

Not long after being led out of Egypt the Israelites resorted to whining and complaining over lack of food and water, and this is documented in the above scripture. What little faith in God they showed by doubting whether or not he would provide them with something as basic as food, and water. Their lack of faith was so strong they even went so far as to say they would have rather remained in bondage in Egypt where they had food and water than to have been led into the wilderness to die from hunger, and thirst.

It became clear that Moses was in charge of a multitude of whiners in the wilderness. Most of us have been guilty of whining and complaining at one time or another in our lives. I have been known to whine and complain myself, especially when I get sick. I am working on breaking that habit because not once has it sped up my recovery. There are those, however, who don't seem to know how to do anything else. What a negative state of existence, and what a terrible waste of energy it is to whine and complain constantly.

The Israelites took 40 years to make a journey that could have been made in eleven days had they past the tests God put before them in the wilderness. They wasted all that energy whining and complaining about food and water, and not once did God allow them to go without either. That wasted energy could have been used to praise God, thank him for their freedom, and in celebrating the fact that they were headed to the promised land. Had they had faith, and trust in God they could have left off the whining and complaining knowing without a doubt that God would provide for them.

When you have a problem do you whine and complain? Do you let it make you miserable, and then share your misery with others through your whining and complaining? If so, has this behavior ever resulted in a solution to your problems or somehow made your situation better? Or does it only serve to steal your joy, and the joy of those around you? Don't be like the Israelites in the wilderness roaming around whining and complaining unnecessarily. Choose to enjoy your life.  Do what you can to solve your problems, and take what you can't do anything about to the Lord in prayer, and leave it there. Don't doubt God, and his ability to help you with whatever trials you may be facing. Put your faith, and trust in him. In his time, which is perfect, he will see you through.

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.

Crossing Paths

Philippians 2:4 (KJV) Says, "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."

The above passage of scripture makes clear that we are to  be concerned with others and their needs, in lieu of focusing solely on ourselves and what we want and need. We live in a world where many people tend to be self-centered, and to be honest most of those who live that way are miserable. The truth is not only are they miserable; they are blind as to why. The answer is we were not created by Almighty God, in his own image, to be self-centered, but rather to notice others and their needs and help them in any way that we can. We are to follow the example set for us by Jesus Christ and he demonstrated selflessness in the greatest of ways, when he being perfect and sinless gave his life on the cross to pay our sin debt in full.

The Apostle Paul is a great example of someone who had concern for others and their well-being no matter what his personal circumstances were. He was in prison, in shackles, on a dirt floor, eating prison food, and not once did he display a woe is me attitude or concentrate on how he could save himself. Instead, he preached and taught the gospel where he was, and he wrote letter after letter to various Churches encouraging them. Through this work that Paul did during this time many souls were lead to the Lord, and the gospel was spread far and wide. He spread the gospel further with his writings than he probably could have had he been free from prison and spreading it on foot.

Another great example of someone who had concern for another human being even though he is walking through trials of his own is a gentleman who was doing some clean-up outside of a restaurant in Atlanta. A very dear friend of mine is staying with her son who is hospitalized in ICU with serious injuries. My friends son is in a medically induced coma, and has been for a week now. She told me that she left his bedside to walk down and get a bite to eat. As she was walking she noticed this gentleman cleaning up outside the restaurant, and he noticed her. He noticed that she carried a look of sadness and concern in her eyes. He noticed she had a heavy heart. He ask her if something was wrong, and if she was visiting someone in the hospital. She explained that she was, and that it was her son who was in serious condition. The gentleman then ask if he could pray with her, and she said absolutely. He prayed a sweet prayer with her, and started to walk away. My friend stopped him and ask if he was from Atlanta, and he said no that he was from Griffin, but he was currently homeless. She said she noticed he had a gentleness and a kindness about him even before he asked to pray with her. She said he wore a cross about his neck, and that you could see the light of Christ in him. Although he never asked my friend for money; she ask him to come with her to the elevator and wait for her to come back down. He complied and she blessed him in a monetary way so that he could get something eat. The gentleman thanked her and walked away, and my friend returned to her son's bedside. God allowed these two strangers to cross paths, and they blessed one another. This gentleman could have been focused on the fact that he had no money, that he was homeless, that he had no idea what he was going to do, and could have been completely self-absorbed, but he, like Paul,  wasn't focused on himself at all. He noticed my friend and the sadness and concern in her eyes, and asked if he could pray with her. God bless him.

Are you self-absorbed? Do you spend most of your time focused on what you need and what you want? Do you notice pain and sadness in the eyes of others? If so do you ask if there is anything you can do to help them or do you just keep walking? Do you offer to pray with them? Do you even offer a smile of encouragement?

I urge you to take your focus off of yourself, and place it on others. Pay attention to others, and help them when you can. It doesn't have to be monetary help it can be a prayer, a smile, or any manner of help or encouragement that you are able to give them. When we take the focus off of ourselves and bless others it is a great feeling, and more importantly it is pleasing to God. If we focus on helping others in lieu of being self-absorbed then we will find that we are much happier, and that we no longer have the desire to whine and complain about our own circumstances. In fact, we will find ourselves feeling more and more grateful.

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 Cried Out and God Heard Me

Psalm 18:6 (KJV) Says, "In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God:  he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears." Psalm 34:4 (KJV) Says, "I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." Psalm 55:17 (KJV) Says, "Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud:  and he shall hear my voice."

The above verses of scripture are just a few of the many examples found in God's Word of people crying out to him in times of trouble, having him hear them, and answer their pleas. He heard the pleas of people 2000 years ago, he hears ours today, and he will hear those who cry out to him until the end of time. I know this firsthand because he has answered mine many times, and just this past week he answered me again in a mighty way.

Let me begin by stating that I love my family tremendously, and that we are a very close knit group. We are a huge part of each others lives, and we are steadfast in our support for one another. This is important for me to share in order to convey to you, in the best way possible, the fear that raced through me this past Monday morning.

The day began like any other Monday with me at work on assignments in a theology class in one room, and my Mom caring for my great-niece, and great-nephew in the next. Mom was holding my great-niece who had fallen asleep in her arms, and my great-nephew was asleep in a crib directly beside Mom's chair. Suddenly, I hear my Mom call my name in a tone that expressed deep fear; it was a tone that made clear to me something was terribly wrong. I ran to the next room and saw my Mom nudging the crib as she was laying my great-niece down in the chair. The words that came from her mouth horrified me. She said, "Darlene he's not breathing." My nephew, who is father to these two blessings from God; had sleep apnea as an infant as did his sister; so I had  infant CPR classes in the late eighties and early nineties  just in case, God forbid,  I'd ever need to use it. The instant I approached my great-nephew's crib, the things I was taught  in those classes came rushing back to me. Mom had handled the first two steps by making certain he wasn't breathing, and by attempting to get him to begin breathing again by nudging him as he lay in his crib. He still wasn't breathing, so terrified I picked him up under both arms with a sudden movement as I had been instructed to do in the Infant CPR classes. It didn't work; he was still unresponsive. I began rubbing his arms, legs, and back, and calling his name. I then pulled him out away from my body so I could check him, and still no response. I repeated these steps as I cried out to God for help, and I mean I literally and audibly cried out to God begging him to Please Help Me. Just as I was about to start CPR I noticed my great-nephew slightly open his eyes, and I knew he was breathing again. The gratitude and relief I felt in that moment was so great there are no words that could possibly do it justice. This nightmare my Mom and I experienced lasted only seconds, but I have to tell you it seemed like a lifetime. My great-nephew was evaluated at our local children's hospital, and placed on a sleep monitor that will alarm should he ever, God forbid, have another episode of sleep apnea, and he is doing well.

God was with me and my Mom that day, and I am so thankful for that. I give him great praise, tremendous thanks, and all the glory for the way things turned out. It was God who prompted my Mom to look over into that crib at the exact moment she did, and it was God who, in an instant, brought the things I learned in those infant CPR classes so many years ago to the forefront of my mind. It was God who  gave me and my Mom the strength we needed to handle this situation without falling apart, and it was God who put breath back into my great-nephew's body. I have to tell you that every time I see the green light blink on his monitor, indicating that he is taking a breath, I instantly praise and thank God for it.

I encourage you to remember that there are many examples in the Bible of individuals and groups of people crying out to God, and having him hear their pleas. David is one of those examples. He cried out to God many times, God heard him , and answered his pleas; all those years ago, I cried out to God just this past Monday, he heard me, and he answered my pleas in a mighty way, and that if you cry out to him there is know doubt he will hear and answer you.

I further encourage you to praise and thank God every day for the miracles, blessings, and answered prayers he has given you in your life, and  to have faith without doubt that he is who he says he is, and that he can do what he says he can do. Stand firm on God's Word and his promises knowing his Word is truth, and that he has never broken one single promise.


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!

Fallible Human Beings

John 8:3-11 (KJV) Says, "And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last:  and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee:  go, and sin no more."

In the above passage of scripture a group of scribes and Pharisees bring a woman who was caught in the act of adultery before Jesus. The Pharisees are known for their strict adherence to the Mosaic law. So strict that in lieu of coming across as born again believers in Jesus Christ, they came across as harsh and legalistic. The woman was placed in the middle of all of her accusers where she stood while her sin was reported to Jesus. The Pharisees were tempting Jesus by stating what the law commanded should be done to her because she was caught in the act of adultery. Having no compassion or forgiveness in their hearts for the woman, but rather focusing solely on the law, the scribes and Pharisees were matter of fact in stating that the law dictated she should be stoned to death. Prior to stoning her, however, they asked Jesus what he felt should be done with her. This was an attempt by the scribes and Pharisees to find fault in Jesus, when it came to the law and his adherence to it.

The scribes and Pharisees repeatedly asked Jesus what he thought should be done with the woman. At first Jesus seemed to ignore them, but as they continued to ask him  he stood up, and gave them an answer. Jesus told them that whoever among them was without sin should throw the first stone at the woman, and this forced them to pause and examine the sin in their own lives. As they did so they began to walk away one by one until there was not a single accuser remaining.

Please note that before Jesus said even one single word to the woman he addressed the crowd that was so eager and willing to stone her. It was only after all of the woman's accusers walked away that Jesus addressed her, and when he did; take note that he didn't speak down to her, shame her, look at her in disgust, or treat her in a condemning manner. Having compassion on her, he simply told her that he did not condemn her, he forgave her, he told her she could go, and not to do it again.

Jesus didn't scream at this woman or give her some long lecture about how terrible her sin was. Instead, he demonstrated love, kindness, forgiveness, understanding, and compassion; as he addressed her. Jesus being perfect and sinless addressed this woman in the manner he did; yet many human beings, just as the scribes and the Pharisees, are quick to judge, condemn, and show no compassion or forgiveness whatsoever for one another. Jesus didn't tell the woman that what she did was okay or that it was not a sin, but when he addressed the issue with her he did so in love, and without harshness of any form.

I encourage you to remember that no sin is greater than another in the eyes of God, and that every human being is a sinner. It is also important to remember that each of us have needed to be shown forgiveness, compassion, and understanding more than once in our lives, and that we should be willing to show the same to others. Christians should hold one another accountable there is no question about that, but we must make certain that we do so with love, forgiveness, kindness, and compassion in our hearts. No lectures, harsh words, or judgmental and condemning behavior are necessary; nor are they Christ-like. This type of treatment toward someone is not beneficial in anyway whatsoever.  I urge you to remember how Jesus treated this woman caught in the act of adultery, and to follow his example. The world could sure use more love, compassion, forgiveness, understanding, and Christ-like behavior. I further urge you to remember that all sins are equal in God's eyes. Consider how you would want others to treat you; should a sin you've committed come to light. Remember we are all fallible human beings; who fall short of the glory of God..

If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you!

Just One Man

Luke 18:35-43 (KJV) Says, "And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the wayside begging:  And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace:  but he cried so much the more, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him:  and when he was come near, he asked him, Saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight. And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight:  thy faith hath saved thee. And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God:  and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God."

In the above passage of scripture note that Jesus was surrounded by a large number of people as he was walking in the direction of the blind beggar. When the blind beggar inquired as to what was going on he was informed that Jesus was passing by. Knowing that Jesus had the power to heal, he began crying out to him. He was instructed by the multitude of people surrounding him to stop crying out to Jesus, and yet he continued on, ignoring the crowd's command for him to be quiet. Jesus, who keep in mind was very busy and in a crowd, hears the blind man's plea, and stops to heal him.

Of great importance to note is the fact that in the midst of the crowd not only did Jesus hear the blind beggar, he stopped for him, and for him alone. Jesus could have very easily ignored his cries, and continued walking. He could have passed by the blind beggar as though stopping for one man was not important, or he could have deemed himself  too busy to stop for one individual, but praise God that is not who he is.

This passage of scripture is such a clear and evident example of the fact that God loves each and every one of us tremendously, and that every single one of his children are of great importance to him. Just as Jesus heard the blind beggar, God hears us when we cry out to him. God loves and cares for us as individuals, and Jesus demonstrated that in the above passage of scripture by stopping for just one man. I encourage you to remember to praise God and thank him for all the miracles, blessings, and answered prayers he has given you in your life. I further encourage you to  remember that God loves you tremendously, that you are extremely important to him, and that when you cry out to him, he hears you. Never feel as as though you don't matter to God because you are just one man.

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!

Spreading The News

Proverbs 16:28 (KJV) Says, "A froward man seweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.' Proverbs 18:8 (KJV) Says, "The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly." Proverbs 11:13 (KJV) Says, "A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he who is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter." 1 Timothy 5:13 (KJV) Says, "And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not." Proverbs 21:23 (KJV) Says, "Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles."

The above verses of scripture taken from the book of Proverbs tell us that a man that is contrary or difficult to get along with sews strife, and that a person who goes about whispering secrets about others separates, not just friends, but the best of friends. These verses further advise us that a talebearer's words are like wounds, and most if not all of us have been wounded by the words of a talebearer. We are also advised that a talebearer reveals secrets, but that people who are of a faithful spirit keep what others have confided in them; or the things they have heard about others; to themselves. We are also advised that people who do not go about spreading gossip and tale toting keep their souls from trouble.  The above verse of scripture taken from 1st Timothy talks about people who have idle time on their hands, and opt to use it to go from place to place spreading gossip, tattling, and tale toting. This scripture clearly labels these type individuals as busybodies, and makes clear that they go about sharing things that they should not be sharing.

Some people seem to thrive on gossip. When they get their hands on what they deem to be a piece of dirt on another person, they cannot wait to spread the news. Most of us know or have known someone who loves a good dirt alert, and are more than eager to share it. It doesn't matter to these type individuals whether what they are sharing is factual; not that if it were that would make it okay to share it. When people gossip, spread rumors, tattle on others, and go about tale toting they are first and foremost displeasing God with their behavior, they are also hurting other people, and making themselves look bad as well. Gossip spreads quickly, unfortunately, and as it spreads the dirt grows, and the story changes so much that in the end; nine times out of ten there is little if any truth left in it. All gossip and tale toting leaves nothing but devastation in its wake. It has destroyed marriages, personal relationships, families, friendships, professional relationships, and much more.

As born again believers in Jesus Christ we should not have the desire in our hearts to spread any form of gossip about anyone. If someone comes to us in confidence and shares something personal with us; or we hear something about another person that falls under the category of dirt alert, we should not have to be ask not to share it. We should be people that others know they can trust and confide in knowing that the result of them doing so would be us praying for them, and offering to help them in any way possible.

Just as we should not spread gossip or tote tales, we should not standby listening to anyone else do so. Silence is a form of agreement. If we find ourselves in the company of a person or a group of  people engaged in active gossip; we can either politely speak up against it, or simply walk away. After you walk away from these conversations enough times; the person or people engaged in them will recognize that you are not on board with that type behavior.

I have personally witnessed how damaging it can be for people to go about spreading gossip, and stirring up strife among others. It causes extreme hurt, pain, and devastation. I urge you to keep in confidence the things others share with you, to speak up or walk away from those who are spreading gossip, and to be the man or woman God has called you to be. We are to love one another; not harm one another with our words or with any other means.  If we as Christians find ourselves idle and eager to spread news, let's make it the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

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!