The Agenda

“For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's. But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel,” Philippians 2:20-22, KJV.

In this passage of scripture, Paul speaks highly of Timothy, the way that we should be speaking of each other. It appears that there are many who love the Lord and then there are those who love themselves. When I say this, I express it in the context of selfishness. The agenda that we have when spreading God’s word should be to help others in any way that we can. Some are in a position to help financially, some are in a position to assist socially or emotionally, and we should all be in the mindset to minister spiritually.

I thank God for His people whom He has placed in my life. I thank God for “trees planted by the water.” It is an honor to fellowship with like-minded individuals. Many days, I get pressed with heaviness of dark spirits. These spirits are in people who sometimes don’t even recognize that they are there. But the Holy Spirit reminds me that we wrestle not against flesh and blood. I understand this more keenly each time Halloween readily approaches. I will expand on this through out next week.

When we offer to do something for the Lord, let it be for the Lord. We must examine our motive for doing what we do for God. Jesus clearly points this out in the example of how we should conduct ourselves when praying. Matthew 6:5-8, KJV, “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask Him.” What is the motive for doing what we do?

Jesus uses another example later in the same chapter regarding fasting. Matthew 6:16-18, KJV, “Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.” What is our motive for doing what we do?

We must come with a pure heart, ready and willing to give up anything for Christ, even our very lives. But sometimes I wonder as some aren’t even willing to give up their lifestyles for Him. Many as the scripture printed above read, have their own agenda, not Christ’s. Just as I mentioned in a previous post, (By One Spirit), some are title seekers. Some are great pretenders. What profits a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul? I’m sure that many think they are doing the church a great service by being able to cast out demons and lay hands upon others, but who are they doing it for? God knows the heart.

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity,” Matthew 7:21-23, KJV.

Additional Reference: Mark 8:36

What time is it?

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace,” Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, KJV.

There is a season for everything, a time for certain things to occur in our lives. It is no mistake that we live in this era, a time where freedom is enjoyed, a time where signs aren’t marked coloreds and whites, a time where prayer is taken out of schools, a time where freedom of religion is confused with acceptance of other religions, a time where faith in God and Jesus Christ is merged with the tolerance of Muhammad and Buddha. What time is it?

Many messages are delivered saying that this is your time to prosper, your time to get that job, or your time to get married. But is it everybody’s time? If you never had a down season, how would you appreciate the up season? If you never experienced the death of a loved one, how would you ever learn how to let go or even understand what that means? If you never had anything removed from your path, how would you know how to avoid greater pitfalls when they arose? If you never experienced the pain of crying, how would you know the pure essence of laughing? If you never kept silent, how would you be able to listen to others? If bad relationships never ended, how could you move on to build a good one?

It is not always everybody’s time to experience everything. There is a process that takes place. Think about it, if your parents expected you to go out and support yourself at two years old, you could not do it. It does not mean that you won’t be able to one day; it’s just not your time…yet. Just as we learn how to speak, walk, and use the restroom by ourselves, we must be taught by God in our spiritual walk. We are here for a time, each at different points on this journey called life.

There is a reason why we are in existence today, right now. There is a reason why Grandma and Granddaddy lived when they did. Their purposes were their own, now what are ours? And when we discover what that is, what are we going to do with the knowledge? Having the information without application produces a fruitless effort. Having a Bible on the shelf or on your nightstand means nothing if you never open and read the contents. And when reading, it still means nothing if you don’t hear the voice of God. “So faith comes by hearing [what is told], and what is heard comes by the preaching [of the message that came from the lips] of Christ (the Messiah Himself),” Romans 10:17, AMP. What time is it?

Is it time to sit back and rest? It is for somebody. Is it time to start a business? It is for someone. Is it time to search and seek God? It is for everybody. The only thing that I know in which has no particular season. In seeking Him, we find what He will have for us to do.

Additional Reference: John 7:6-8 (Jesus even displayed the importance of timing, shouldn’t we?)

The Spirit of God

“And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human[b] wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God,” 1 Corinthians 2: 4-5, NKJV.

Maturity comes from the Spirit of God. We know nothing outside of Him, nothing that matters anyway. Often situations present themselves where we may lose sight of this truth such as racing after success, riches, or status. But those of us in Christ quickly recover from our bout with secularism and return to our senses—our racing after God. I’ve heard the phrase “it’s all about who you know,” which is true because who we need to know is God. Sadly, when this phrase is used it is usually being referred to a networking circle that could get you a particular job, a certain recommendation, special treatment, et cetera. I often ponder on what Jesus said, Matthew 6:33, KJV, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” When He said it, He meant it.

Seeking first the kingdom of God is a privilege. It is an opportunity that many have to fight for in other countries, yet often taken for granted in the United States. It is an honor to serve God and to share His word. Although I’m not very old, I feel that I’ve wasted so much time in the world, yet comforted by what God has allowed me to go through coming out stronger in Him, and not myself. Trusting Him enough to know that when He says no or not yet, it’s for the best. I bow in submission, knowing that all that I’m able to do does not come from my intellect, but from His wisdom. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD,” Isaiah 55:8, KJV.

The Holy Spirit guides, directs, and comforts. We can do nothing apart from God, but we can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens. How are we strengthened? We are made stronger through trials and tribulations. God understands what we may go through here on earth, but we must remember that we are more than conquerors! We don’t have to settle for anything. Single and over thirty, don’t settle for a person you don’t want. Out of work for a long period of time, don’t settle and do something illegal. God is in control, He knows and sees all. Nothing happens without His knowledge—He is everywhere. The Holy Spirit is omnipresent. And remember, Jesus said that He will never leave nor forsake us. I believe it and I know this is true. God is so awesome, so patient, so loving, and so kind. He cares for us even when we don’t know to care for ourselves, covering and protecting us.

Dark moments may come, but the Spirit of God is with us. The world may look on in judgment of our faith, but God is real. There is a lack of understanding, a lack of seriousness, a lack of trust, but God is here. Time is getting shorter and shorter with each passing day for Christ’s return, yet self-righteousness takes its place. “But as it is written: ‘ Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man, The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.’ But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God,” 1 Corinthians 2: 9-11, NKJV.

Additional References: Philippians 4:13, Romans 8:36-37, Deuteronomy 31:8, Joshua 1:5, Isaiah 64:4

A Tree Planted by the Water

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit,” Jeremiah 17:7-8, KJV

The economy is such a hot topic now. The word recession has been used to describe the state of our nation for the past year. It is defined as a widespread decline in the GDP (gross domestic product) and employment and trade lasting from six months to a year. There have been reports after reports of rising unemployment rates and how it affects people of our nation. This is true that this is a challenging era in our history, but it is not the end of the world.

Just this year alone many reports have been made of suicide incidents related to this issue. Where is the faith in God that was spoken of in the “good” times? He is the same God now that He was then. He is still able to do exceedingly above all that we could ever think or ask. He is still on the throne. He is still our provider. How many of us believe this?

Faith in God is not something we can pull off of the shelf at a convenience store. It is not something that we already know is going to happen and then we believe, it is “…the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen,” Hebrews 11:1, KJV. Despite the loss of jobs, God is our provider. I have said for many years now that God is my source. It is not a job, a paycheck from the government, or a particular person, it is the Almighty God. All of these things are resources, but do understand that God is the source.

When some may experience lack, God’s people prosper. When I say this, I speak from experience. Whatever the bank account says it can’t handle, God says I can. When the unexpected bill comes and the monthly budget does not allow for it, God says I do. When faced with situations that tell you to just give up, God says not on Me.

Putting trust in anything other than God just sets a person up for failure. Neither homes nor bank accounts can save a soul, only our faith and trust in Christ can save us. The chaos going on in the world is rooted in greed, not God. Even as these things occur, we must trust in God not our intellect to interpret or reason. He is our guide through this journey of life. But if trust is in man and things of this world, the battle has already been lost.

“Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited,” Jeremiah 17:5-6, KJV.

Additional References: Luke 12: 25-32, Psalm 1:3, Ephesians 3:20

The Laborers are Few

“And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest,” Matthew 9:35-38, KJV

Not too long ago I attended a Saturday conference event led by Don Sunshine, www.donsunshine.org. The title of the conference was MAD: Making a Difference. The presentation he shared was absolutely wonderful as it compelled me to be more proactive in my faith sharing. His motto is taking someone to heaven with you. What an awesome saying that leaves a lasting impression. If we looked at faith sharing in that light, I think many of us would speak up more when it comes to God, the one and true living God whom we serve.

If someone was about to board a plane or get into a car that you knew had malfunctions, would you just look in the opposite direction and hope for the best? Would you consider yourself lucky that you know about the problems in advance and figure that they'd find out sooner or later? Would you just be okay if that person just crashed and burned if there was something you could do about it?

That’s how we must approach the command of telling others about Christ so that they may receive the free gift of salvation. Often, we are very eager to tell others about a new movie that we’ve seen or the latest cologne or perfume that’s selling, and even the latest diet that will help shed a few pounds, but not about Jesus. Some share dirty jokes or offensive music, but not Christ. Hell is a very real place and no matter what some may say to the contrary, you can’t wait until you die to make the decision to believe.

There are many barriers that satan (and yes I meant to lowercase his name) uses to keep our mouths shut. He conjures up all sorts of excuses to stop Christians from speaking the Word of God. He is deceptive, conniving, and manipulative. That's his nature. He knows that his time is short and his fate is sealed, so he wants to take someone to hell with him, attempting to keep us from taking someone to heaven with us.

It is our duty to be a voice for God. It is actually a blessing to stand as a representative for Christ, after all that’s what being a Christian means. Our life and lifestyle should tell a story of our faith. How would someone be able to tell if you’re a Christian or not? Is it because you have to tell them or is it because your works speak for you. Your lifestyle shows it all day long,

“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature,” Mark 16:15, KJV.

Below is a humorous look at eight reasons why we as Christians don’t share our faith. Please view, but in the midst, consider those reasons or shall I say excuses.

Watch your Mouth, part 3

The Lord is an awesome God who is worthy to be praised. As I continued to study His word, I seek understanding. I seek His righteousness, His holiness, His love that He extends ever so generously. His Word washes me daily and I thank Him for His insight that He provides to us as believers. He indeed rewards those who diligently seek Him.

As I think about other things that come out of our mouths, my mind ponders on the words lie and liar. Some try to create a distinction with possible categories of lies. There is no such thing as a white lie in the Bible; a lie is simply a lie. Some consider fudging numbers on a tax return, an adjustment on time sheets, or adding additional job duties on a resume` to get a certain position a white lie. Either you’re telling the truth or you’re professing a lie and most times many are aware of when they are doing it.

Many conceive that “you get ahead” by not telling the whole truth, but that in itself is a lie. When telling a lie, you have to remember what you said. When being truthful, you don’t have to have a good memory. As I continued to study God’s Word, I meditated on Proverbs 6:16-19, KJV, “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.” Did you notice what I bold printed? There are two of the things that God hates which fall into one category: a lying tongue and a false witness that speaks lies.

Many of us, well I would think that all of us hate lies. Who wants to be lied to? It’s rooted in deception and betrayal. It’s disheartening when many say false things about another or sit on a witness stand and fabricate stories that are simply not true. Telling lies tear apart families and friendships. It can destroy homes and communities. It is a deliberate attempt to deceive. It is not from God nor is it pleasing in His sight.

There’s a reason why God hates lies. Consider its roots by what Jesus said, “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it,” John 8:44, KJV.

When watching what we say, we must think about how God sees it. We have to consider if we are speaking blessings or curses, profanity, or lies. We are either condemned or justified by what we speak and as we understand the atmosphere we are creating for ourselves, then will we understand why our lives are they way that they are. If you enjoy peace and serenity, you understand why, it’s not luck. If you struggle with drama and strife, consider your environment and the words you are receiving as well as speaking to others.

“A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue,” Psalm 17:4, KJV

Additional Reference: Hebrews 11:6

Watch your Mouth, part 2

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers,” Ephesians 4:29, KJV

Continuing with the post from yesterday, I examine the use of profanity. Now, I was never one to curse or curse someone out, but for some reason I allowed those words to creep into the pages of my novels. Just as I have mentioned before, in my mind I thought this was reality. But whose reality was I portraying?

The definition profane is characterized by irreverence or contempt for God or sacred principles or things, irreligious. It is further described as not being devoted to holy or religious purposes; unconsecrated or secular. If I had taken the time to look up profanity years ago, it would have saved me from the way I chose to construct my books.

You see, profanity to me was just something people used, even “church people.” I had been in the presence of people who were self-professed Christians (in the church probably longer than I’d been alive) and used profanity. I just never felt comfortable saying profane words, although I used them in my novels. I was just so used to hearing it, it became normal. Initially I saw nothing wrong with a couple of words here and there. It was just the way people talked. It was just the way it was. The thought was what is the harm? Isn’t that sad?

But the problem is that words used that are profane crowd our lives. They speak volumes in the atmosphere that are detrimental to growth in Christ. One of the synonyms of profanity is blasphemy. Blasphemy is defined as profanation: blasphemous behavior; the act of depriving something of its sacred character. Lord, please forgive me ever using that language to do your work because in the process I deprived it of its sacred character. The holiness was lost somewhere in the message due to the delivery. Our words can hurt us even when we think we’re helping.

Take a look at the common synonym, curse, which means a prayer or invocation for harm or injury to come upon one. Is this what we really want when speaking to each other? The lines of morality are being blended together so smoothly, just about anything is being accepted. Why? Psalms 34:1, KJV, reads, “I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Today, I let my words be words of praises to Him and encouragement to others. I have abolished all profane words from my novels and aim to live more like Christ as He is the standard. I do not change the words in the Bible to fit my life or lifestyle, I allow Christ to change my life so that I can live according to the Bible.

What are we telling God when we speak?

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer,” Psalm 19:14, KJV.

Watch your Mouth, part 1

“O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned,” Matthew 12:34-37, KJV

I thank the Heavenly Father for His revelation and insight. I thank Him for patience with me. I pray that many more will accept Christ as their personal savior, but we are not here to arrest and force, we are here to simply invite and be available. I know where God has brought me from and I just pray that others who are not in Christ come to understand the grace (unmerited favor) and patience He extends.

Our words are an indicator of what we believe, and another indicator is how we conduct our lives. If we are always saying negative things, why expect positive results? If we sow seeds of destruction, why expect to reap production? If we speak death, why expect life? Something is seriously wrong here. I’ve observed, including in my own behavior, the words of doubt, discouragement, pity, despair, depression, and complacency. What kind of atmosphere are we creating for ourselves? What kind of environment do we expect to live in with words like these floating all around us?

In addition to this, what words are we allowing into our minds? We must examine the television shows and movies that we watch, the radio programs that we listen to, and the company that we keep. As I really got a hold of this I had to examine my own life. What was I doing? Who was I talking to? How was I spending my time? Where was I spending my time? My inner circle changed, my outlook changed, my writings changed and this was a result of the change Jesus had made within me.

Once I had accepted Him, fully, He was then able to change me. There was no more, “Okay God, I trust you here, but over here I think I can handle this.” There was no more, “This issue isn’t big enough to take to You, so I’ll figure something out.” God wanted to be involved in every intricate detail of my life, no matter how small I thought it was. In giving Him total reign in my life, change had to come. He no longer occupied that small room of my heart where He had lived for so long, only to watch in disgust the visitors that I kept. He cleaned house and those guests had to go!

“I call heaven and earth to witness this day against you that I have set before you life and death, the blessings and the curses; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live. And may love the Lord your God, obey His voice, and cling to Him. For He is your life and the length of your days, that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,” Deuteronomy 30: 19-20, AMP

Additional References: Proverbs 18:21, Matthew 5:15-16

Recommended Reading: Blessing or Curse, You can Choose by Derek Prince

In the Presence of my Enemies

“Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with [a]oil; my [brimming] cup runs over,” Psalm 23:4-5, AMP.

I begin with the amplified Bible notes regarding this passage of scripture: Psalm 23:5 “It is difficult for those living in a temperate climate to appreciate, but it was customary in hot climates to anoint the body with oil to protect it from excessive perspiration. When mixed with perfume, the oil imparted a delightfully refreshing and invigorating sensation. Athletes anointed their bodies as a matter of course before running a race. As the body, therefore, anointed with oil was refreshed, invigorated, and better fitted for action, so the Lord would anoint His "sheep" with the Holy Spirit, Whom oil symbolizes, to fit them to engage more freely in His service and run in the way He directs--in heavenly fellowship with Him.”

With this in mind, I envision that God has thoroughly equipped us for any type of battle that we may encounter. The Holy Spirit is our comforter, our guide. So, although we may encounter adversity, dark moments, we have the “oil” as our protection.

The valley of the shadow of death describes the rough times in our lives. Each person may describe their valley as something different. They can be periods of despair, moments that lack understanding, bouts of pain, and times of loneliness and neglect. In the midst of this, we are to fear no evil because the Lord is with us. As our Shepard, His rod and staff comforts.

What’s very interesting is that while we are yet experiencing perilous moments, God prepares a table before us in the presence of our enemies. Now, when God prepares anything, we know that it is good for us. The table leads me to believe that there is food there, spiritual food good for edifying the saints. When we look at the table, it takes the focus off of the enemies and places it on the things of God.

In Matthew 14, when Peter walked on the water to go to our Lord, distraction came upon him and he began to sink. What happened? Peter took his eyes off of Jesus and placed it on something else. We’re to focus on God and what He has us to do. Allowing doubt and distractions to enter our minds can hinder us.

Let us look to the Lord where our help comes from. This table in the presence of our enemies is there to strengthen and nourish. This table provides everything that we need. This table accompanies us along the way. So as my spiritual strength is built, I continue to eat from the table. When I start to feel weary, I eat. When I become worn and tired, I eat. When I feel beat up or just plain beat down, I eat because I know God placed that table there for such a time as this. What’s more amazing is that God supplies us with enough to give to somebody else.

Allow your cup to overflow into someone else’s life.

The Power of God

A few years ago one night as I was praying, the model Lord’s Prayer at the time, “…For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever…,” the word power bold printed inside of my head. So much emphasis was placed on power that it caused me to pause and think. So, I had no choice, but to hear what the Holy Spirit was saying to me. Power is defined as possession of controlling influence. In other words, it’s authority over something.

As I examine the usage of the word power in the Bible, I see that it is used as an overcoming factor. It displays the ability to overcome situations, circumstances, or conditions. In Christ, it never fails. This is especially important to remember when you are laughed at or made fun of or talked about because of your love for Jesus. Well, Jesus put it best when he said in Luke 10:19-20 (KJV): “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”

I count it all joy, trusting in the Lord. I rest in Him, examining myself daily. I long for further communion in His presence, thanking Him for saving me. An atheist even said on an interview that if you are a true believer then you should not apologize for being a “Bible-thumper”. He drove home the truth, even in his ignorance that Christians should speak and live out their beliefs. He even went as far as to quote Mark 16:15, KJV, “…Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” This was a person who does not even believe in God. I know that God is sovereign and can use anyone to preach the Gospel, it’s just sad that many of us relinquish the power given to us by our Father to the enemy. Satan only has the power that is given to him.

Then I thought about the moments leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. When Jesus met with Pilate and Pilate thought he had power over Him. “So Pilate said to Him, Will You not speak [even] to me? Do You not know that I have power (authority) to release You and I have power to crucify You? Jesus answered, You would not have any power or authority whatsoever against (over) Me if it were not given you from above. For this reason the sin and guilt of the one who delivered Me over to you is greater,” John 19:10-12, AMP.

As Christians, when things do happen and we know that we are in God’s hands, understand that it does not occur outside of God’s knowledge. Often, we may experience things because God knows that we are able to bear it. Sometimes, it may be to show someone else, or yourself, the definition faith. But we must always remember that power comes from God and through His divine insight we are taught how to use it.

Additional Reference: 1 Peter 1:3-7

Never Enough

“Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter,” Isaiah 56:11, KJV

Imagine living in a beautiful home built near many of your favorite attractions. Whether it’s in the busy metropolis or in a quiet area of the suburbs, it is home to you. The foundation is just as you wanted it, the master suite, the corner bedrooms, and the spacious kitchen. Then you go over to a neighbor’s house and see that they have a pool and theater room. Now you want that too.

So, you add on that theater room which never crossed your mind before. And you have that pool installed even though it over extended your budget. You are now satisfied, so you think. Then the neighbors get a brand new outdoor grill that costs a pretty penny. Oh my, you’ve got to have that too because it’s the “in” thing now.

You sit down at your computer, searching for a place where you could buy that new grill and run across an advertisement about starving children. You look away briefly, contemplating whether or not you should donate that money you were going to use on the grill. You find that the yearly cost to feed ten children is less than half of what you want to spend on the grill that you never really wanted. You ponder, but then decide to get the grill anyway. Others will donate for that cause, you say.

Or consider that a new cell phone has just come on the market. You don’t need a new phone, but you’ve got to have it because there are new bells and whistles on it that your old phone does not have. Almost instantly you remember that you just got your phone last month and it works perfectly fine. You didn’t need to upgrade it for work purposes, you didn’t need it for homemaker duties, but because it costs more it must be better. Sadly, you recently deleted a voice message from one of your friends who needs a loan for a water bill due at the end of the week.

There’s always going to be a flashier car, a larger home, a more expensive ring, but does that mean that it’s for you? And then some may ask God, well, why didn’t you give me what I asked for? You said in your word that you would supply all of my needs according to your riches and glory. I imagine God bringing to their attention the nice home, but it was not enough, the theater room, not enough, and the pool that He may not have wanted them to get, but He allowed—still not enough.

Whatever happened to the days before cell phones and gas grills? Whatever happened to the days before computers and HD television sets? It seems as if the more we are given, the more we want. With all of this, it’s still never enough.

“And He said to them, Guard yourselves and keep free from all covetousness (the immoderate desire for wealth, the greedy longing to have more); for a man's life does not consist in and is not derived from possessing [a]overflowing abundance or that which is [b]over and above his needs.” Luke 12:15, AMP

Additional Reference: Exodus 20:17, Proverbs 27:20

No Condemnation—in Christ Jesus

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 8:1-2, KJV

Condemnation is an expression of strong disapproval. Why would there be strong disapproval? Well, disapproval comes when walking after the flesh—the sinful nature. The works of the flesh are adultery—sleeping with someone else’s husband or wife, fornication—sleeping with anyone and you’re not married, uncleanness—morally defiled, lasciviousness—lustful or lewd, idolatry—placing anything above God, witchcraft—sorcery and its branches, hatred, variance—strife, emulations—jealousy, wrath—vindictive anger, seditions—rebellious of peace, heresies, envying, murders, drunkenness, reveling—carousing, and other things of such. We cannot please God in the flesh for those who worship Him must do so in spirit and in truth.

The good news is that there is no disapproval of those in Jesus Christ walking after the Spirit. Walking after the Spirit yields things that are most longed after: love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control. Against these things there is no law because those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh, the Godless human nature. So, if we live by the Spirit, let us walk in the Spirit, helping one another, not tearing each other down and ready to give and not always expecting to receive. Let us aim to have an attitude that is Christ-like, you can never go wrong there. The Bible states in Romans 8:6, KJV, “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”

How many of us desire peace? I know that I do. Peace of mind away from the things of this world. Peace from death (spiritually dead separated from God), peace from those who hate you, peace from those who love sin, peace from those who ridicule or challenge God. God is not mocked, but some still live in the ignorance of not knowing the path they travel. And then there are some who know exactly what they are doing and the fact that it is indeed wrong, yet choose to do it anyway. The seriousness of their condition escapes them, expecting another day that has not been promised.

As revealed in scripture, to be carnally minded is death. We are mortals, held in this body by breath that was given to us by the Almighty God. How fragile the human life. If we considered on a daily basis those on life support, those who die in car accidents, plane crashes, robberies, childbirth, or even in sleep, the perspective of our existence may change from complacency to thanksgiving. We thank people who open doors for us, who pull out a chair, who allow us to cross the street while they sit in a stopped car, and who compliment us on our clothes, but what about thanking Jesus? What about thanking Him for dying for us?

In Jesus Christ, there is no condemnation, that’s not why He came to earth. “For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved,” John 3:17, KJV.

Are you saved?

Additional References: Romans 8:1-11, Galatians 5:16-26, John 3:16-21

Straddling the Fence

It is dangerous to be “somewhere in the middle” when it comes to faith in God. Either you believe or you don’t. It is dangerous to take some parts of the Bible and hold it up as truth and then look at another part and say that it is a lie. It is dangerous to juggle with your eternal life, taking for granted each passing day. Praise God that He ever loves and is patient. He waits and gives opportunity for us to accept Him. He stands at the door, knocking. How long does He have to knock?

Many of us have visited another one’s home and stood at the door either knocking or ringing a bell. Some of us have even experienced the waiting, the time we spend wondering if that person is at home or what they are doing that they can’t get to the door fast enough. We pat our feet, cross our arms, and at times may even look at our watches—waiting. Imagine what our Lord goes through.

He stands at the door and knock while we tell Him, “Just a minute.” He stands at the door and knock and we say, “I’m busy right now.” He stands at the door and knock, “And we say come back tomorrow.” He stands at the door and knock …and we just don’t answer, not saying anything. We wait behind the door, peeking out of the curtains, waiting for Him to go away.

We must consider that if we reject Jesus, someone else will knock on that door, or perhaps he’s already inside. He plays games with us, he tells us stories, he makes us “feel good” for a time, he strokes our egos, and he convinces us that we have everything that we need. This guest inside romances us, gives us everything we think we want, and fills our heads with empty promises that he can never deliver on. We trust him, and we embrace him, sleeping with the enemy.

But then Sunday morning comes and we look for Him. We cry out to God and pride ourselves on making that weekly date day. We apologize for cheating, but our sincerity is far from us. We don’t mean what we say because as His Word is shared, we are thinking about him, the one we were with last night. We are remembering the good times with him, and what we have planned for later that day. We can’t wait to get to him; he even dropped us off at service. We are caught up somewhere in the middle…straddling the fence.

Somewhere along the line, some forget that God knows all and sees all. Some insult Jesus' love for us by justifying their unfaithfulness. And all He wanted was for us to seek Him with our whole heart, but many want him too. Many don’t want to decide, considering the world…so a decision was made for them.

“I know your [record of] works and what you are doing; you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of My mouth!” Revelation 3:15-16, AMP

Additional Reference: Revelation 3:15-22

Salvation, can it be lost?

This was a topic that I questioned for a long time. I’ve heard ministers, preachers, and respected leaders speak on this and I’ve only heard two people, within the past couple months, consider what my husband and I discussed. We considered against the mass and believe that salvation can indeed be lost.

Many have said that salvation cannot be lost because if it is lost, that means you were never saved in the first place. Others have said, well, maybe they were false converts because once you accept Christ, you are in it forever. Is that really true? The reason why we questioned this is because the Bible specifically states that there will be a falling away. 2 Thessalonians 2:3, AMP, read, “Let no one deceive or beguile you in any way, for that day will not come except the [a]apostasy comes first [unless the predicted great [b]falling away of those who have professed to be Christians has come], and the man of lawlessness (sin) is revealed, who is the son of doom (of perdition).” Apostasy is defined as an abandonment of one's religious faith, a political party, one's principles, or a cause. The key word here is abandonment. The Bible also states that there will be blotting out of names. “You have rebuked the nations, You have destroyed the wicked; You have blotted out their name forever and ever,” Psalm 9:5, AMP. So, that leads me to believe that salvation can indeed be lost.

Now, understand that this does not mean that Jesus walks away or turns His back on us, because He most certainly does not. It is quite the opposite; we can walk away from Him. Consider this, when you marry someone, you make a firm commitment to be with them until death do you part, right? When you made that commitment, you were sincere at heart and meant everything that you said. I know some people aren’t sincere, but consider those who were when they stood at the altar. For many, there was no doubt that this was what they wanted to do. They were thoroughly convinced that this person was the one and no matter what happened they were going to stick it out and see things through to the end.

At some point in time, one in the marriage begins to feel differently about the decision they made. The other, still as committed as they were on day one and standing firm, even through the trials. The first person decides to walk away. They are tired of the union, they have lost faith because every thing that he or she wanted did not happen or has not happened yet and they file for divorce. What happened? One was committed and determined to be there no matter what the trial and the other wanted the marriage to end because it wasn’t worth all the stress. Jesus is committed. Although there will be tough times and moments of despair, He said that He will never leave nor forsake us.

Jesus said in Revelation 3:5, KJV, “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before His angels.” So, I believe that salvation can be lost, because Jesus speaks about the blotting out. The name had to have been there in order for Him to blot it out. He never walks away from us, but we have the ability to walk away from so many things…including our salvation which rests in Christ Jesus.

Additional References: Psalm 9:5, Hebrew 13:5

The Head of My Life

“Giving honor to the Lord Jesus Christ who is the head of my life…” I’m sure many have heard this in the church as an introduction, which I think is a very good introduction. I think it describes how I feel because He is my Lord. He comes first in my life and I give Him full reign in everything that I do. I hadn’t always done that, although that’s what I wanted, but I am happy today that I’m actually giving Him that without any qualms.

Now, why hadn’t I always done that, give God full reign in my life? I wanted Him to have it. Well, looking back I consider my lifestyle. Was my lifestyle pleasing to Him? I don’t think so. Although, I said that I wanted Him to take the reins in my life, did I really give it to Him? Making a decision to do something and actually doing it are two very different things. I could have made up my mind to do something ten years ago, but until I actually do it, I’m still living in the past.

1 Timothy 1:1-2, KJV, reads, “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope; unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.” Paul was commanded, and he obeyed. Remember, if you love Me, you will keep my commandments? Obedience is the way to show love. Just making up our minds to accept Christ is one thing, to in fact accept Him is another.

Lord means master or ruler, the authority figure in your life. Saviour means a person who rescues another person or a thing from danger or harm. Why is it that most accept Jesus as Saviour and forget about the Lordship? I’ve heard some say that “God’s not going to put a person in hell for this or for that.” Scripture interprets scripture. Is it okay for me to choose to obey one part and forget about the other? Of course none of us are perfect, not one of us does everything right, but each one of us should at least try. Would it be okay for someone to say that they enjoy murdering and then stand before God on Judgement Day and say, “Lord I know that’s wrong, but I wanted to do it and I did it anyway.” Not even bothering to ask forgiveness and repent when they had the chance. Would it be okay if somebody broke into your house and stole everything you had? Would you expect the judge here on earth to say, “Oh, he was just having fun, just let it go.” And he had a chuckle to follow.

Lord. That means so much more to me now than it did five years ago, and will probably mean even more five years from now. Lord. Jesus is my Lord. He can do whatever He wants to do in my life. And in His word, He lets me know exactly what that is. Lord. I trust Him with my very life. If I had to die, then I would for Him. Lord, Savior, or both? Which is He to you?

“And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.” Luke 6: 46-49, KJV

God is Love

"If you [really] love Me, you will keep (obey) My commands." John 14:15, AMP

If we love Him, we will keep His commandments. In the previous post, I used 1 Corinthians 13 as a reference for love. The attributes of love are patience, compassion or kindness, forgiveness, and endurance amongst other things. But it seems as if that word is over used to the point of complacency. Some may say they love their clothes, they love their car, they love drinking, or they love smoking. Is that what love is? Has it really been reduced to that?

As I ponder this scripture, I think about the absolute meaning of love. Love is God. Isn’t He patient? He has been and still is patient with me. He searches my heart and nourishes my soul. He teaches when I feel like I’ve had enough “classes” for the week. He’s there to guide me back when I choose to take side roads. And for many who haven’t accepted Him, just as He did for me, He stands at the door and knocks, patiently waiting for His invitation to come in, not to just visit, but to reside.

God is compassionate. If we got what we deserved, this would be a sad day, but God is compassionate. Compassion is a deep awareness of and sympathy for another's suffering and a willingness to do something about it. Although it was man who had sinned against God through disobedience, He had compassion. He did something about our sinful nature through Jesus Christ. He knew that we would suffer through our own actions of not keeping His word, so He sent Jesus. Compassion is a characteristic of love that God shows every time we come to Him.

God is forgiving. No matter how many times we may fall, He is ready to forgive. How many of us do that? Again, we can lock ourselves up in a prison that we’ve built for someone else through unforgiveness and that person has gone on with their life, smiling and laughing while we may sulk. To forgive does not mean that it was okay for them to do us wrong, it just means that we won’t hold that against them. What if God was unforgiving? What if He held every wrong we’ve ever done against us? God’s love is unconditional.

God is enduring. He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever. He’s not changing. What a standard to govern our lives by. He does not complain, He does not rejoice in evil, and He does not fail. He sets forth standards that will profit us, not tear us down. He uplifts and encourages, he teaches and corrects those whom He loves. We ought to obey because we love Him too. We do it not because we are trying to be saved, we do it because we are saved. It should be a natural desire to please Him. He wants for us to show Him that we love Him. He does so much to show us that He loves us; all He asks is for us (His children) to show Him that we love Him too. “If you love Me. You will keep My commandments.”

Additional References: 1 Corinthians 13, John 14:15, Revelation 3:20, Hebrews 12:5-7, Hebrews 13:8, Galatians 2:19-21

By One Spirit

“For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:13, KJV

The analogy of the human body and the spiritual body of believers is wonderful. We must all labor collectively. Just as fingers work together to pick up a cup of water or to write an email, members of the church body must come together as one to accomplish a goal or complete a given task. Each has an integral part. No one part is better than the other, they just have different functions.

Often in churches, many are “title seekers.” The only title that really matters is Christian. We’ve heard the term “true Christian,” I’ve used it as well, but I wondered, what is that? A Christian is a Christian—either you are or you aren’t. That’s like saying a little pregnant, either you are or you’re not. But then I looked at the words Jesus spoke, "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth...," John 4:23, KJV. I understand now that He knew in advance that this term would indeed be needed. There are so many make-believers that the distinction has to be made clear.

What about the person behind the title? It is the same outside of the church, a doctor is no better than a janitor, a CEO of a company is no better than a person at entry level, a pastor is no better than an usher or choir member—just different functions. And each function must be occupied to make the operation run effectively. Have you ever seen a call center with no customer service representatives? Have you ever effectively printed something out with no paper and ink, but you had a printer? What about a car with no wheels? Where would you go? “But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body,” 1 Corinthians 12:18-20, KJV.

We all need one another as believers, a gift God has given you I may not have. I believe God did this for a reason, so people won’t get full of themselves or the big head. No one person has everything. If a person did, that person would be God, and Jesus is no longer walking on this earth. “So that there should be no division or discord or lack of adaptation [of the parts of the body to each other], but the members all alike should have a mutual interest in and care for one another,” 1 Corinthians 12:25, AMP

Do we care for one another? Do we offer friendship, a helping hand, or a kind word? What about a smile? Do we even care …enough to love?

Additional References: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, 1 Corinthians 13

House of Prayer or Den of Thieves?

“Come get your supernatural blessing!” Have you ever heard that phrase before? Or, “give your five hundred dollar sacrificial seed offering for your breakthrough?” Of course the amount varies, usually more than five hundred dollars, but the concept is the same. And what is this about chicken dinners and bake sales to keep the church doors open? What is this? What ever happened to just plain obedience? To obey is better than sacrifice. If people paid their tithes and made offerings, nobody would have to put a crowbar in their palms to get it out. Now, I am not saying that it is wrong to have events or programs to raise money for specific outreach projects. Nor am I saying that charging for the production of sermons and radio broadcasting is wrong because I don't believe that it is. But what I am saying is that the house of God should focus on Him and not our personal agendas.

It seems as if we’re in an era of “right now” deliverance—the “gimme” syndrome. Now, it is true that God does deliver instantly and has full capabilities to bless those whom He chooses when He chooses for He is sovereign. But what are we doing for Him? We want Him to do all of these things for us, but nothing for Him. God is not a prostitute where we can pimp Him. He is not on some street corner holding His hand out for money. He does not need our money (which by the way is His anyway). He desires our faith and trust...our love.

Look at the expression of love He poured out for us, His only begotten Son... to be beaten, ridiculed, lied on, talked about, and disgraced. All of this and some still reject Him. I didn't understand how so many people wanted to go to heaven, but rarely wanted to go to church. Then a friend of mine enlightened me. She said that they don't want to go to heaven; they just don't want to go to hell. Hmm, hell, now there's a thought. Are we serving God just because of danger of hell or is it because He is God? He is good, He is awesome, He is a deliverer, He is “I AM”. Do we think about it only when we see a hearse backing up with someone in it we many know, or on a daily basis to wake up in the morning and say, “Lord, make this day what you would have it to be, letting your will be done, not my own”?

What are we asking God for that He hasn't given us already? He said that He'll provide all of our needs. Needs, not wants, well I've already talked about that in the Grace and Mercy blog post. Are we seeking money, things, fame, or are we after God's heart? Check out Psalm 37:4. That's what it means to delight yourself in the Lord, and He'll give you the desires of your heart. What do you desire? I desire more of God, more of His presence; I just want to be next to Him because He is everything to me.

Romans 8:27, KJV, states, “And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” So, whatever we ask for must line up with God’s will. It does not matter what supernatural anything that you may give, if you're not living right, the Holy Spirit isn’t going to even take that to God. It says it right there in His word, according to His will.

But Jesus summed it up best in this passage of scripture: "And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple. And He taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the House of Prayer? But ye have made it a Den of Thieves. And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy Him: for they feared Him, because all the people was astonished at His doctrine." Mark 11:15-17, KJV

Does His doctrine astonish you?

Beware of Dogs

This is usually seen on signs as you walk down a street or ride past homes while driving in a car: Beware of Dogs. The dogs they are speaking of are in the house or somewhere near the property. They are not strays that belong to someone across town or in another community. The sign is referring to dogs that may be right in the back yard.

Often we try to escape evil, but it may be right in the house with us or in the same family, or in our circle of friends. People can be hateful, mischievous, malicious, and jealous, yet call you brother, sister, or friend. Some may claim to have your best interest at heart, yet motives for getting next to you extend beyond what the surface presents. How do you deal with this?

Well, it is quite simple, put up a fence. If there are dogs in the area that may be a danger to you or harmful to your well being, put up a fence. This means creating boundaries that you will not allow them to cross. When people hurt you or “bark” in your direction, stay on your side of the fence because they cannot cross. But when you open the gate, that’s when trouble enters.

I try not to entertain foolishness. I aim to live with the peace of God, which passes all understanding, because it does keep my heart and mind through Christ Jesus. Yes, there are times when situations arise and words are said that may “startle” us, but we have the ability to recompose ourselves and keep it moving in the right direction. Remember, they have no power over you, only the power that you give to them.

"Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of concision,” Philippians 3:2, KJV.

Additional Reference: Philippians 4:7

A Bad Case of the Complaints

I never use to think this about myself until I heard a sermon—that was just for me. I was pretty much “the victim” and felt I had reason to object what had been done to me over the course of my life. I felt that the world had singled me out for ridicule, but I didn’t look around at all of the others who had experienced the same or even worse.

My life, in my eyes, appeared to be tumultuous—to say the least. It went from having my identity stolen to getting tangled up in a relationship with a drug dealer. It ranged from evaluating blood that held the AIDs virus (and disputing the accuracy of those results to my then supervisor where I ended up leaving because of it amongst other things) to looking into the teary eyes of a person living with that very disease. But I thought I had something to complain about.

God answered me when I asked, “Why me?” with “Why not you?” He reminded me of Joseph being sold into slavery, Daniel in the lion’s den, Jonah in the belly of the whale, John the Baptist having been beheaded, and of course Jesus Christ who hung on a cross—blameless. Jesus said, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” I realized then that I had nothing to complain about.

I remembered those who can't walk, talk, or even get dressed on their own. I took note of those who have been raped, maimed, and crippled. I considered those who grew up in foster homes and broken families. I took the medicine to cure me of the bad case I had ...of the complaints.

"Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5, KJV

"Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you [yourselves] may not be judged. Look! The Judge is [already] standing at the very door." James 5:9, Amplified version

Additional Reference: Luke 23:34