Unctionally Speaking

2010-05-23T20:18:00.004-04:00

It's Imperative!

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine... Philippians 1:3-4a

Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints- Ephesians 6:18

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray... James 5:13a

I have often heard it said (and it is true), that praise and worship are in order when you are in the midst of trials and tribulations.

I have also heard it said (and again, it's true) that you should focus on God's goodness toward you and remember past blessings during your time of "go through".

But once you have done all of that do you just leave God's presence while you most assuredly have His attention? (God inhabits the praises of his people Psalms 22:3) No!

There is nothing like going to God on behalf of a brother or sister who is standing in need, to get your focus off your own problems.

One of the best ways not to fall victim to self pity is to shift your focus from you and your circumstance to the circumstances and challenges of others!

You see we are called to intercede for our brothers and sisters. As the body of Christ it is our duty to go to God on behalf of one another. What affects me should affect you. What affects you should affect me.

How can you love me or I you, and never think to pray for you and your needs?

We should also thank God for one another knowing that it takes the many members that make up the body- for the work of the church to get done!!!

AND as we pray for ourselves and the body of Christ--- let us not forget those you have yet to come to a saving knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord!!!!

Let us continue in prayer one for another understanding that Intercession is Imperative!!!

Joyful Harvest

2010-03-17T09:32:00.008-04:00

They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. Psalm 126:5-6

What situations in your life cause you to weep? It seems as though the more you pray about them the worse they get. The more you try to speak life into them, the deader they seem. The very thought of them causes your eyes to fill with tears and your heart to hurt so bad it feels as though it might burst, but still you keep right on trusting God, knowing that weeping must not hinder your sowing because, without sowing you cannot harvest.

How do we sow into our circumstances? We sow through prayer, perseverance and performance!!!

*Prayer --- we take it to God
*Perseverance -- we’re determined to wait on God
*Performance -- we function like we’ve already received from God

The word says he that goeth forth and weepeth bearing precious seed shall come again rejoicing. That means that those of us who keep moving forward- not letting our circumstances stifle our walk, while carrying the precious seed of God’s word and promises with us, SHALL harvest an abundance of blessings that will cause us to laugh in the end, when we think of how burdened we were by our circumstance in the beginning!!! We will Rejoice not only because the storm is over, but because once again God has proven himself reliable!!!

Let this scripture text be a source of encouragement for us today because we know that when it’s all said and done – the Lord will give us a Joyful harvest.

Prayer:
Father I thank You for Your Word and Your Promises that I’m relying on to see me through.. I thank you that this storm that I am in right now is in no way bigger than You My God!!! I Praise You Dear God for my Joyful Harvest!!! In The Name of Jesus!!!!!

Former Things

2010-02-11T09:55:00.004-05:00

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)

These verses were written to let the Israelites know that the Old Deliverance could not compare to the New Deliverance which would be through Jesus the Christ. But as I read this scripture this is what the Holy Spirit gave to me.

We all have “Formers” that are a part of our “Past”. Some are good and some not so good. There are people in our past who are now former friends, lovers and even spouses. There are actions in our past that are the result of our former belief system and way of thinking. We also have former circumstances and situations that were born out of our former actions. Many of these formers have created deserts and wasteland (wasted-land) in our lives. Sometimes our formers don’t allow us to see the light at the end of the tunnel. They don’t allow us to forgive ourselves and, they don’t allow us to believe that God could ever use us or that things could ever get any better for us. BUT GOD…

The Lord says in Isaiah don't you understand what I'm trying to do for you for you right now? Forget the former things and by all means don't dwell in the past!!!

Although we are certainly able to push the former things to the back of our minds, do we ever really forget them? No! So what is my point?

I believe that the message here is not to let the things of the past keep you from the New Thing that God has in store for you. Don’t let the things that you have done in the past, the people who have hurt you in the past or your former circumstances dictate what you can be or how effective you can be for Christ right now!!!!

God will do a New Thing but you have to let go of the Former Things!

Prayer:

Father God help me not to dwell in the past. Free me Father to be able to receive Your New Thing. In the Name of Jesus, Amen!!!

Jehovah Mephalti

2009-09-23T13:09:00.008-04:00

Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net. Psalms 25:15

In this scripture David feels that his enemies have caught him in a net like an animal. David knows that there is only one person who can deliver him and that is God Himself. David says “My eyes are ALWAYS looking towards the LORD". This tells me that David knows if he is ever going to be delivered, God will be the one to deliver him. You see David understands that in his own strength he could NEVER get out of the net on his own. David is fixed in his trust, and constant in his expectation; he looks in confidence, and waits in hope.

Keep mind that the net is used to catch, entangle and contain those caught. Once in the net they are rendered powerless and are at the total mercy of the hunter—they are left without any control over what happens to them.

A few of the possible reasons for setting a trap with a net include; torturing, caging (imprisoning), devouring, or simply destroying that which is caught.

We as Christians have a common enemy, satan, and he is on the hunt. The bible says that our “adversary the devil walketh about seeking whom he may devour”. Satan is the hunter, we are the prey and he’s got the net.

What net you ask? Well the net can be anything that renders you incapable of moving forward in your walk with Christ. Anything that would take your focus off the work God has called you to do. Anything that puts your own selfish desires ahead of what you know is God’s desire for your life.

unforgiveness
bitterness
grumbling and complaining
envy
lust of the eye/flesh
procrastination

All of these can be a net, all are sinful and all are devices of satan to keep you from what God has for you! BUT!, the Word of God tell us that the Lord will deliver us from the devices our enemy.

If we have fallen into sin, God will not leave us to be utterly destroyed. Though our feet are in the net, if our eyes are looking up unto Him in confidence, if we are fixed in our trust, and constant in our expectation, God’s mercy WILL step in and pluck us out of our dangerous state.

After all He is Jehovah Melphati – The Lord My Deliverer!!!!!

Prayer
Father God I thank you for your grace and mercy that delivers. I thank you Lord that even when I lose sight of you dear God you never lose sight of me. I asked that you order my steps this day that I might not sin against you. In the Name of Jesus, AMEN

Lean on Me!!!!

2009-09-09T15:11:00.002-04:00

If one falls down,his friend can help him up.But pity the man who fallsand has no one to help him up! Ecclesiastes 4:10

We are created to live in community and engage in caring relationships with one another. Should any of us falter, or have unexpected needs, a friend can come along to lend a hand. But when a person lives in isolation, too "independent" to need or help anybody else, he or she quickly discovers no one is there when trouble comes.

We need one another. Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves (see Matthew 19:19). Love for one another is not some passive feeling, but a practical response to a need expressed through "compassion in action." What might this look like in your life today?

courtesy of : sista Val!

With Us & For Us!!!!

2009-08-06T07:24:00.005-04:00

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

As we begin our day today, let us remember no matter what we encounter, the Lord is with us and, no matter how dark or how scary the situation, the Lord is for us.

The Lord is not ONLY our light, but He is THE LIGHT that will guide us out of the dark situations in our life. As our light, God will reveal those things in our path that would cause us to stumble in our walk with Him and those things that have been set up by the enemy to bring harm to us.

But fear not, not only is the Lord our light - He is our salvation! He will also save us from those things meant to harm us. Does that mean that we escape all hurt and pain? No!!! What it means is that God in His infinite mercy will not allow those things to destroy us. We will survive!!!

How do I know we will survive? Because not only is the Lord our Light to guide us, our Salvation to keep us from destruction, but He is our Strength!!! That means when we are weak and feel like we just can't take anymore, His strength will allow us to push forward.

So remember no matter what you see in your path today.... Not only is God with you, He is For You!

Prayer
Father God as I begin this day, I thank You for being by my side. I thank You for revelation, wisdom and knowledge. I ask that You would show me the path to take today. Show me what and who to side-step. I thank You for Your strength to make it through. I pray that my walk with You today is even closer than my walk with You yesterday. In the Name Of Jesus, Amen!!!

Expect God To!!!!

2009-06-23T21:00:00.006-04:00

Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. Acts 3:2-7

When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. Acts 3:9-10

When Peter saw this, he said to them: "Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? Acts 3:12

I would like to begin by directing your attention to what immediately jumped out at me as I read this passage:

· First, because the man in our scripture was crippled he relied on others to carry him where he needed to go.

· Secondly, because he could not see beyond what he needed at that moment, he was unable to see that he really needed much more than he was asking for.

With that being said, how many of us understand that spiritual crippleness is real? It is possible for us to allow our circumstances to cripple us to the point that we are unable to get from one point to the other in our life walk ; and often times we depend on others to do for us what we would be able to do for ourselves if we didn’t allow life’s curve balls to immobilize us!!! Thus we end up relying on others to carry us!

It is in times of spiritual crippleness we are also most likely to pray for what we see as the "quick fix" to our problems-- that which will relieve the pressure or satisfy us in that moment. It is in our spiritual crippleness that we will pray asking for the least of what we need.

Look at the man our text.... the least of what he needed in his life was alms (money). Did he need money? Sure! But more than money he needed to be healed, so instead of granting his request (through Peter and John) for money, God gave him what he needed most!!!!

And so it is with us, we sometimes don’t have enough wisdom to address anything other than our "need of the moment", so God will forgo answering our request only to give us what we need most!

The last point I would like to make is, when this man asked, he EXPECTED to receive. It's one thing for us to say we believe God can.. BUT, when we expect God to, we enter into a new dimension of faith. You see, praying believing God can is the equivalent of a seed being planted (if you have the faith of a mustard seed….matt 17:20) But expecting God to- is where we reap our harvest - that's the dimension in which mountains are moved, bodies are healed,circumstances are changed and marriages are saved!!!

But not only did the man expect to receive when he asked, Peter also expected to receive when he asked. When Peter saw that the people were surprised and astonished by the healing that God had performed; the way verse 12 translates in my mind, Peter says to them, I could understand your surprise had this miracle come from me, but it came form God, what did you expect?

As Christians we should never be surprised by God’s miracles or His answers to our needs… we should expect them!!!!

So I will end by asking you to answer these questions;
1. Are you tired of being a spiritual cripple, depending on others to carry you?
2. What need do you have that is greater than what you’ve been asking God for?
3. Do you Expect God to?

Prayer:
Father I Praise You in Your Sovereignty! Father I trust You to always bring what is best for me to live the WHOLE life you would have me live, nothing broken - nothing missing. In the Name of Jesus, AMEN!

Thank You Jesus!!!!

2009-06-03T15:22:00.007-04:00

...for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. 1Corinthians 10:4b

My grandfather often used the term “caught between a rock and a hard place”. The meaning of this term is no matter which way you turn you are faced with an obstacle; that you are seemingly in a problematic place that offers you no way out.

If right now you find yourself caught between “a rock and a hard place”, I would like to offer up this bit of encouragement for you today; Remember who THE Rock is!

Think of it like this --- on your left is your "hard place"– on your right is 'The Rock" – and there you are right smack in the middle!!!! What do you do?

Well if your hard place is …

A broken heart… Turn to your right and you’ll find THE ROCK ready to rescue you from your pain. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

Sickness…Turn to your right and you’ll find THE ROCK ready to bring you healing. For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds," says the Lord. Jeremiah 30:17

Confusion… Turn to your right and you’ll find THE ROCK ready to bring order and harmony into your life. For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace. - I Corinthians 14:33

Lack… Turn to your right and you’ll find THE ROCK ready to provide. "And the LORD thy God will make thee plenteous in every work of thine hand, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy land, for good: . Deuteronomy 30:9

As long as you remember who THE Rock is on the other side of your hard places, you won’t be overtaken by your circumstances.

And one another thing to keep in mind is that while your “hard place” may change from circumstance to circumstance, The Rock Always Remains the Same!!!!!

Thank You Jesus!!!!

Glory To God!!!

2009-05-26T20:11:00.013-04:00

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33b

Halleluiah!!!! I find this to be one of the most reassuring scriptures in the bible.

Jesus is letting us know in no uncertain terms, that while yes we WILL have trouble in this world /in this life, we need not fret because He’s got our back, our front and our side x 2!!!! He is the solution for every kind of trouble we are faced with.

The trouble spoken about in this scripture is not referring to the consequences of our own wrong choices, as much as it speaks to the attacks of Satan and his demons on those of us who go by the name of Christ.

As Christians, I'm certain that we have on more than one occasion found ourselves under Satan's attack; be it through our health, our relationships, temptations, etc. And because Jesus made such a point of assuring us that we would have trouble, I will even go so far as to say that, if you have not found yourself under some type of attack from the enemy --- perhaps you are not walking as closely to the Lord as you think---because when Satan feels like you are really a threat to his kingdom, you can be sure he is going to come for you with all the fiery darts he can!!!!

But Jesus tells us to take heart –do not be afraid and do not get overwhelmed, but have courage!!! Why? Because HE has overcome the world!! The word world in the last portion of this scipture is synonymous with Satan and he has been overcome!!!!

I like to think of it like this; Jesus says I have “overcome” –He has come (into this world) to be over Satan/world , He did not say I have “under-come” - to be under him.

So NO MATTER WHAT trouble Satan brings your way, take heart- stand strong – be of courage – because through Christ we too have overcome – come (taken position) to be over the satan!!! Glory to God!!

Prayer:
Father God in time of trouble help me to remember not to fret and not to be afraid, because You in Your infinite Grace and Mercy, have taken care all of my troubles for me through your son Christ Jesus. Amen!

Don't Set Yourself Up!!!

2009-04-30T12:14:00.005-04:00

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
Isaiah 55:8

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. Proverbs 3:5

What is it that you are waiting for God to do in your life? Do you have prayers that you are still waiting on an answer for? Well ask yourself this, is it that God hasn’t answered your prayer or is it that He didn’t answer the way you expected?

Often times we don’t see the answers to our prayers because God didn’t package them the way we thought He should or the outcome wasn’t what we thought it would be.

We being the control freaks that we are, not only want to tell the Lord what we need but also how to supply our needs. We create scenarios in our minds of what our answered prayer will look like—or what we think would be the best way for God to answer us; forgetting that God’s ways are not our ways nor His thoughts our thoughts.

When we do this we don’t allow God to work beyond what is logical to us. I don’t mean that we literally don’t allow God to work, because we know that God is sovereign and we don’t ALLOW Him to do anything; but I am saying that when we conjure up visions of what our answered prayer will look like and that is the only way we can see our prayer being answered, if the Lord does anything other what we are expecting or beyond our understanding …we end up being disappointed and in turn are unable to see God moving!

In order to really receive God's answers to our prayers we must give Him carte blanche in dealing with our issues. How do we do that? We do that by trusting that God knows what is absolutely best for us even if we don’t understand it and by being open to HIS plan for our circumstance.

Don’t Set Yourself Up for dissapointment or to miss the move of God in your circumstances. Let God truly be Lord over your Life!!!!

Prayer:
Father God you know what is going on in my life. You know the things I stand in need of, the things I need deliverance from and the relationships that I need to have reconciled. Father I’m asking you to move in these areas of my life in the name of Jesus. I trust you God to answer my prayer according to your will for my life. I will have no preconceived ideas of how you should answer dear God, but ask that you help me to recognize your hand in it all. Father I praise, bless, and exalt you in the midst of everything that is going on in my life. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen!

Stop the Killing!!!

2009-04-21T19:39:00.006-04:00

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.Romans 6:23

This passage may be a familiar one for many of us. And most of us have probably heard it preached in regards to our choice to continue "unsaved" and die, or accept God's gift of salvation through Jesus Christ and receive eternal life with God.

But as I thought about the portion of this scripture that says "the wages of sin is death", I couldn't help but think about how our sin can bring death to any area of our lives. Think about it- most of what is wrong in our lives is because of our disobedience to God (sin) or that of someone else. We often look at our lives and ask, How did I get here? Why am I going through this or that? Why is this hurtful thing happening to me? The answer is some one's disobedience -Some one's sin.

For instance....

Marriages don't just die- somebody kills them with sin-- and that doesn't necessarily speak to adultery- it could be a wife not respecting her husband, or a husband not loving his wife as Christ loved the church

Friendships don't just die - somebody kills them with sin- Perhaps one is holding a grudge- maybe backbiting- or the other has a spirit of jealousy.

Parent/child relationships don't just die- they are put to death- sometimes by the parent's unwillingness to step up the plate and actually parent and sometimes because the child doesn't honor his parent.

There are all kinds of ways to cause death in our lives; lies, deceit, sexual sin, etc., and keep in mind there is no area of our life where sin will not be paid with death. The bible tells us very plainly that the wage – the payment, for our disobedience is death.

My charge for you today... Stop The Killing!!!!

Are You Ready For Service?

2009-04-06T11:09:00.002-04:00

And when Jesus went into Peter's house, He saw his mother-in-law lying ill with a fever. He touched her hand and the fever left her; and she got up and began waiting on (serving) Him. Matthew 8:14-15

As Christians we know that God is a healer and a deliverer. We also know that it is our duty to share with others about how God healed us from sickness or delivered us out of an adverse circumstance. This is what is commonly known as "testifying", and is one way by which we can encourage others in situations similar to our own. But my concern today is that many of us may not understand that our healing or deliverance is not solely for the purpose of testifying or just to make us more comfortable while here on earth. No, God heals and delivers us for a purpose!

In our scripture for today, Peter’s mother in-law illustrates to us very plainly, exactly what that purpose is. The word says that after Jesus laid hands on her and the fever left (He healed her) she got up and began waiting on him. She began to Serve Him.

It is that simple, the Lord Heals and Delivers us for Service!

God does not heal us simply to keep us here on earth so we can be with our family and friends. No He heals us knowing that the healthier we are the better able we are do his work in a way that will glorify Him. He heals us for service.

Nor does He deliver us out of difficult situations without purpose. Take for instance our finances—when God delivers us from a debt ridden life it is not just so we can have more money, it is so we can better serve Him through service to our brother, the church, etc. How can we help our brother when we can’t help ourselves? He delivers us so that we can better serve Him.

Often times we associate serving God with singing on the choir, ushering or serving on a board, but service to God does not end when we leave the church building – actually, that’s when it begins. Paul tells us in Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.

This lets us know that as devoted followers of Christ we should serve God everywhere – at work, at home, at church, in our communities, and with all of our life – our time, our talents, and our finances.

So here’s the question…. What are you asking God to heal your from? What are you asking God to deliver you out of?

Are You Ready For Service?

What's Your Preference?

2009-03-06T17:09:00.003-05:00

O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago.”-
Isaiah 25:1

Every Believer has reason to lift up the name of the Lord. God has done many things in our lives that give us cause to exalt Him. When I looked up the word exalt in the thesaurus it gave me a number of alternative words that I might have come up with on my own such as; Adore, Brag about, Celebrate, Glorify, Reverence, Honor and Magnify, but there was one word that I would never have thought and it gave me a new perspective on what my relationship with God should be about and that word is Prefer. Wow!!! How many of us can really say that we Prefer God? That we prefer Him over our families, friends, jobs, and our “fun”? If we are completely honest with ourselves we have to admit that our actions don’t always say that God is our preference.

The Lord should be our preference if only because of his perfect faithfulness and faultless commitment to us, which is the basis for every excellent thing he does in our lives. Whether material, physical or spiritual, it is all a direct result of God’s faithfulness to us.

And whether it seems to take a long time for those excellent things to be realized in our lives or whether they appear to come quickly – there is joy is in knowing that God planned them long ago.

Nothing the Lord does in our lives comes from a last minute thought. He didn’t just think it up the moment that we got it; He didn’t even come up with it once we knew we were in need of it and prayed. No, The Lord in his infinite wisdom and perfect faithfulness to us had plans of blessing us with marvelous things not only long ago, but long before we were, and because of that I Prefer Him!

What's Your Preference?

That's Beneath You!

2009-02-26T09:24:00.002-05:00

And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them: Deuteronomy 28:13

You made him a little lower than the angels; you crowned him with glory and honor and put everything under his feet." In putting everything under him, God left nothing that is not subject to him. Hebrews 2:7-8a

In this society filled with all types of prejudices, stereotypes, cliques and factions, there are those of us who think ourselves too good for certain things.

Now it would be one thing if this air of superiority applied only to those in the “world”, but there are those of us who go by the name of Christ who feel exactly the same way. We place ourselves at a level that is above certain people, places and things; and what we are essentially saying is "they are beneath me".

There are those of us who are quick to say…

*Where we will not go- Oh no I don’t go to the hood, i wouldn't caught dead down there
*What we won’t wear- I wouldn’t buy that, I only wear (fill in designer name)
*What we won’t eat- I don’t eat that, that’s poor people’s food (Sounds strange but I've heard it said)
*Who we won’t allow in our space – I’m not hanging out with so-n-so- they aren’t on my level

OH NO!! He, she or that’s Beneath Me!!!

Now I could go into a spiel about how wrong it is to look down on others because God says He is no respecter of persons, and if He isn’t how can we be? I could also go on to tell you how it’s wrong that we won’t go into certain areas when the Lord clearly tells us to go everywhere spreading the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I could even make the point that it is wrong for us to concern ourselves with food and clothing when God lets us know that we are not to worry about what we will wear or what we will eat. But none of these examples make my point for today.

So what is my point you ask? My point is this, how come we can without hesitation, because our narrow-mindedness, put people, places and things beneath us, but that which the Lord says is beneath us; we allow to loom largely over us. We have got this thing all wrong. Why are we so willing to accept whatever the enemy throws our way?

Think about it...

*How many more healthy Christian marriages would there be if when adulterous sexual temptation presented itself we were to say, I’m not going there, that’s beneath me.
*Or when sickness and disease reared its ugly head we were to say, I don’t receive that, it’s beneath me.
*I won’t be stuck in a rut
*I won’t suffer from lack
*I won’t be overtaken by a spirit of depression

THAT’S BENEATH ME!!!!

How come when it’s time to get victory over our circumstances we can’t see our circumstances as beneath us? Don’t you know that we are joint heirs with Christ and that Father God has placed EVERYTHING under His feet which makes everything beneath him, and if beneath Jesus then beneath Us as Christians?

The next time you want to look down on something make sure it’s that thing the enemy would use to hinder your walk with the Lord, after all…That’s Beneath You!!!

You Are There!

2009-02-05T10:34:00.003-05:00

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 2Corinthians 9:12-13

Have you ever heard a brother or sister in Christ when asked to serve in the church respond with, I’m not there yet? It goes something like this, brother/sister Christian will you…join the choir? I’m not there yet; help in the youth ministry? I’m not there yet; usher? I’m not there yet; pray? Oh no, I’m not there yet.

There are so many of us who are stagnant in our walk with the Lord simply because we feel that we’re not there yet. The question is, not where yet? Maybe you are not in a place where you feel like God could possibly have a job for you to do in His kingdom; or maybe you don’t feel like you have reached the place where you are qualified or even justified to be of service to God.

If you are someone who feels this way, then you should know that satan is doing a happy dance over you!

You need to understand that God has called all Christians to service and if you are sitting around waiting to "get there”, satan has you right where he wants you. Satan knows that as long as you are feeling unworthy of working in the kingdom, as long as you are waiting to "get there" you will not work in the kingdom.

Also, because you don’t feel like you are there yet, the gifts that God has so graciously given you are being used for everything but His glory and the up building of His kingdom. So here again satan has you right where he wants because you are not blessing God or His kingdom with your gift!

Brothers and sisters because we are saved satan can’t keep us out of heaven, but if we allow him to, he can keep us from being effective in the kingdom of God. Fulfilling your duty of service in the kingdom is something YOU WON'T DO UNTIL YOU DO IT.

Paul lets us know in this scripture that our service is an overflowing expression of thanks to God .You have to determine that because of ALL God has done for you, you will as a show of appreciation -not payback, put yourself aside and do a work for Him.

Paul goes on to say that because of our service men will praise God. What you do in and for the kingdom will meet the need of someone, and that someone will know that they only have God to praise for you being loyal and obedient to the gospel that you say you believe. I guess what it comes down to is, You do what You believe. Paul's point is that to be vital and living in the body Christ, our profession of faith MUST result in works.

So the next time you are asked to serve, remember the result of your service will be...

Praise to the Lord and prayers on your behalf from those in need.
Others will be able to see the sincerity of your faith in the gospel through your service
The opportunity to be a light to the world, letting your good works shine before all nations that they might glorify your father in heaven. Matthew 5:13-16

Just do it... You Are There!

His Purpose Will Be Accomplished!!!

2009-01-28T09:23:00.001-05:00

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13

It is one thing for us to try to be “good” on our own and it is another thing to have God work the good out in us. Reality is, the only way we accomplish anything truly good in our lives is through God who wills and causes us to do it.

The first promise of the gospel is that believers in Christ who repent and are baptized will "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38). Throughout the New Testament there are references to the Holy Spirit like; "the Holy Spirit which is in you", "the Spirit of God that dwells in you" and "he dwells with you, and he shall be in you."

When we give our lives to Christ, God the Holy Spirit comes to live in us and places in us the desire to do what is good and pleasing to him. So often it seems virtually impossible for us to reach our "goals of goodness" because we try to accomplish them in our own strength.

Paul says in Roman 7:15b, For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do; He then goes on to say in Romans 8:9a, you are controlled by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. Collectively these two verses could be summarized this way; without yielding to the leading and guiding of the Holy Sprit we cannot do of God’s good pleasure- we cannot be pleasing to God!

The term “good pleasure” comes from the Greek word eudokia (yoo-dok-ee'-ah), meaning will or choice; which says to me, it is the Holy Spirit in us that causes us to do what is God’s will and to choose God's choices for us.

Some of the things we know are God’s good pleasure are...

-That we would be Christ like- For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, Romans 8:29

-That we would bear fruit- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control -Galatians 5:22-23

-That we would love our neighbor as love our neighbor our self." Galatians 5:14

-That we would glorify God - "That God in all things may be glorified."1 Peter 4:11.

But without God the Holy Spirit we can accomplish none of these things He has purposed for our lives. Romans 8:8 says, So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. Only when we put aside our flesh and yield to the Spirit, can God fully to do his work in us. God’s work will not be thwarted! God will achieve His results.

Remember, God is working according to His plans and specifications, and we need to understand that no matter what, His plans will be realized; and that they can be realized one of two ways; if we are obedient -he will work in us and if we are disobedient -he will work on us. The choice is ours but the end result is the same, His purpose will be accomplished!!!

Take It!

2009-01-23T09:57:00.004-05:00

He holds victory in store for the upright; He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones" (Proverbs 2:7-8, NIV)

Is there something in your life that seems impossible to overcome? We all have struggles that we must contend with; and while they may differ in magnitude we all want the same thing, Victory Over Them!!!

Our scripture tells us that the Lord our God holds Victory for the upright. I believe God is paying special attention to the needs of those who are loyal and committed to Him and is very much aware of the things we need victory over.

The surest way to obtain victory in our lives is through the Word of God. It is through the Word that we gain the wisdom needed to first handle our circumstances, and second find out the specific steps God would have us take to achieve victory over them. There is no-thing in our lives that is to big for God. No matter what the world tries to throw our way we must remember and confess… Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world!

For me this scripture from Proverbs conjures up an image of God standing before us with His arm out-stretched and in His hand He is holding victory; He is saying, "Here, this belongs to you- Take IT!!!"

Fear or Favor?

2009-01-07T10:57:00.003-05:00

Genesis 6 (NIV)
v8. But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.
v13. So God said to Noah, "I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth.
v14a. So make yourself an ark …

It's sad to say, but many Christians including myself; find it hard to operate in the favor of God, especially when it involves doing something we’ve never done before.

We all know Noah’s story. God had decided that mankind had become so wicked that he would destroy them all, with the exception of Noah and his family. The scripture says that Noah had found favor in the eyes of God, and because Noah chose to operate in that favor, he was not fearful of the destruction that was to come. Because Noah chose to operate in that favor he was able to do something he had Never done before, build an ark. It was operating in God’s favor that revealed to Noah the talent for ark building that he didn’t even know he possessed!! And to top it all off, operating in the favor of the Lord not only blessed Noah, but also blessed those closest to him!!!

So here’s the deal, God has given each of us gifts and talents that He expects us to use to His honor, His Glory and His purpose; some of these gifts/talents we are aware of and some we are not . In any case there is a decision we must make. Are we going to operate in fear and Never have any of our gifts and talents manifested or are we going to operate in God’s favor and fulfill His true purpose for our lives.

May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalms 90:17 (NIV)

Many of us (me included) are continually praying to God for financial blessings for ourselves and our family, and God is saying to us, STOP IT!! I have given you a talent and I have given you favor. If you really wanted a financial blessings you would operate in My favor that is resting on you and establish (launch) that business I gave you a talent for or you would use the gifts I have given you to establish (create) increased income in your life!

With our mouths we tell others “I am Blessed and Highly Favored”, but with our actions we say I’m afraid; but of what? Maybe it’s the fear of failing or being rejected! But how do we know we will fail or be rejected if we never try?

One thing I know I will need to keep in the forefront of my mind is, “God calls us to do only what He equips us for”. So if I’m operating in God’s favor and following the leading of the Holy Spirit no matter what it looks like, I'm going to accomplish exactly what God would have me to! And as far as being rejected is concerned, well I’m just going to have to get over myself!!!! You see, if I’m operating in the favor of God for His honor, His Glory and His purpose, it’s not me who is being rejected but God, and for sure, He is more than able to handle that.

So my brothers and Sisters we have a decision to make, what will be our M.O. (Modus operandi), Fear or Favor?

Travel Light!!

2008-12-29T10:44:00.004-05:00

But this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
Philippians 3:13b

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. Isaiah 43:18

As we prepare to take our trip into the New Year, there are some rules for packing that we absolutely must follow if 2009 is to differ from 2008.

As with any trip we must first decide what we are going to take with us.

When my husband and I travel we like to leave enough room in our suitcases to pick up some new stuff, which means we can’t bring a lot of our old stuff with us.

So the first rule in packing for your trip is, don’t pack your old hurt feelings, unforgiveness, resentments, offenses and anger; that way you will have room to pick up Release, Peace and Joy!!!!!

We also make sure we don’t take excess baggage so that we are not pressed down from the weight of trying to carry it and so we don’t have to pay extra for it.

You may have a physical condition, a challenging circumstance, or a loved one for whom you are concerned that has to make this trip with you, but you don’t have to pack the worry, agony, fear and frustration that often attaches itself to these situations . That is the excess that will keep you weighed down and can cost you extra mentally and even physically.

You see, there are some things that we will have no choice but to take on our trip, but there are also those things that by not packing them, will make for a much more enjoyable stay at our destination resort Chez 2009!

Forget the past hurts, pains and disappointments and move forward into what God has planed for you in Christ Jesus!

I Wish You A Joy-FULL New Year and Remember… Travel Light!

Christmas Does'nt Come Cheap?

2008-12-18T10:08:00.004-05:00

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: Isaiah 9:6a

Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 1 Peter 1:18-19

So I’m driving home and on the radio I hear the Deejay ask a caller who has just won a gift card if they are going to spend the money on themselves or someone else. The caller answers that the money would be spent on someone other than themselves, and the Deejay tells the caller that’s a good idea because Christmas doesn’t come cheap these days, and at that point the Holy Spirit gave me this word, which is CHRISTMAS IS CHEAPER NOW THAN EVER BEFORE!

Christmas will never again cost as much as it did when the Lord Jesus chose to step down from his throne, lay aside his deity, wrap himself in flesh, be separated from the father, be born into a sinful world, endure the ridicule, be tempted by the devil, undergo betrayal, submit himself torture, be nailed to the cross, become sin, and die! It cost Jesus all of that and more, in order to Buy Us Back! Even on the first Christmas in the manger, with the star of Bethlehem overhead, Jesus had but one goal--- to Buy us Back!

Ask most people and they will tell you that in order to have a Merry Christmas they need money and lots of it. Money is all that is needed to” buy” Christmas now days. Think about it, for a large portion of our society, when we think Christmas we think toys, games, clothes, gadgets, foods, drinks, trips and parties! And the more those things become the priority of Christmas, the cheaper Christmas becomes!!!!

I am not saying there is anything wrong with buying gifts but, our main focus during the Christmas Season should not be on what we can buy, but on what was bought for us.

There is a song I love called What Kind of King by a group called Down Here and this is the chorus;

How many kings, stepped down from their thrones?
How many lords have abandoned their homes?
How many greats have become the least for me?
How many Gods have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that is torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their sons for me?
Only one did that for me

Christmas will NEVER cost us what it cost Jesus!

But Standing Next to Who?

2008-12-11T10:01:00.007-05:00

Numbers 13:
25 And they returned from searching of the land after forty days.
27 And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and honey.
31b We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.
32b and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature.
33a there we saw the giants, and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers

For the sake of making my point I have condensed this scripture text to include only what is needed for today's message but, I have in NO way changed the meaning of God’s word.

With that said, this is an account of Caleb and some other men who were sent by Moses (at the direction of God), to scout out the promise land which God had promised the Israelites. For forty days they scouted the land and when they returned to their camp where Moses awaited a report, they told Moses that the land was just as the Lord had said it would be, flowing with milk and honey. They found the land to be fertile and plenteous, but they said the people there were stronger than they were. However Caleb, ignoring the fears of the others, said let’s go in and possess the land.

Again the others spoke up and said that the people of the land were of great stature – “they are giants and compared to them we are as grasshoppers.”

What seemed to be lost on the others but not on Caleb, was ultimately the Lord was the one who sending them into the land, the Lord was the one telling them they could possess the land, and it was the Lord who had promised them the land in the first place.

What was the difference between Caleb and the others? The other’s compared the occupants of the land to themselves, while Caleb compared the occupants to his God. You see with the physical eye they all saw same “giants” but, with spiritual eye Caleb’s perspective differed from the others. Caleb chose to measure the size of the “giants” against the size of His God!

So here’s what you need to ask yourselves, the problems in your life are gigantic in comparison to what?

Just like with the Israelites God has made promises to you; to work all things to your good, to make a way of escape, to never leave you, to prosper you and the list goes on and on. It is hard to possess God's promises for your life if you are looking at your problems with your physical eyes and measuring them against your abilities, that is when your problems/circumstances become giants in your life. But if you look at your problems through your spiritual eyes and you stand them next to your God, then they become the grasshoppers and you (in Christ) become the giant.

There is a saying that goes- Stop telling God how big your storm is and start telling your storm how big your God is.

We all have problems and adverse circumstances in our life that may at times seem gigantic, But Standing Next to Who?

To Benefit or Not To Benefit

2008-12-05T09:42:00.005-05:00

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

In this scripture we see that waiting is of benefit to the Christian, and I want you to understand that the way we benefit from waiting has everything to do with how we wait.

I have but one point for you today and that is waiting for a Christian is not just passing time away, nor is it a time of doing nothing. Waiting for us as believers requires us to do – it requires us to take action. What action you say?

Praying, Praising and Practicing…..

*Praying expecting the Lord’s reply - And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. Matthew 21:22

*Praising the Lord for the Hope that we have in Him- But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more. Psalm71:14

*Practicing the Lord’s word in our lives –But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, James 1:22a

Praying, Praising and Practicing will not only give you renewed strength where you feel like you can get through, it will refresh your spirit to the point that no matter what is going on in your life you can say “all is well”.

Praying, Praising and Practicing will lift you up over your circumstances so that you can get a different perspective on what is going on in your life. Things don’t seem to be so big when you are looking down on them.

Praying, Praising and Practicing will keep you from becoming weary (exhausted) while you run life’s race and it will keep you from becoming weary (disillusioned) with life itself.

To Benefit or Not To Benefit... It depends on how you wait!

Oh Give Thanks!!!!

2008-11-25T18:57:00.009-05:00

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 1Chronicles 16:34

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; Psalm 100:4

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, Hebrews 12:28

As we step into the holiday season, specifically Thanksgiving Day, we gear up to spend time with our families and those loved ones who we may not see on a regular basis. We anticipate sitting down to a delicious meal that has been prepared specifically for the day and give thought to what we will give thanks for when it is our turn in the "I'm Thankful For" circle. It is during the Thanksgiving holiday more than any other, that the whole world pauses to reflect on those things for which we are thankful; food, shelter, health, jobs, families, friends and the list goes on.

But for those of us who go by the name of Christ, everyday is Thanksgiving Day. We are to be thank-ful(l) everyday, but not only for the tangible, we should also be Giving-Thanks with respect to the person God!

First, what is Thanks? It is gratitude, appreciation, recognition, indebtedness, acknowledgement and praise.

What does it mean to be full? It is to be filled, completely occupied, teeming, overflowing, bursting with, crammed with, and abounding with.

With that said…

* Everyday we should be crammed with recognition for the Presence of God (Psm. 75:1)

* Everyday we should be filled to overflowing with gratitude for the Provision of God (1 Tim. 4:3,4)

*Everyday we should be abounding with acknowledgment for the Perfection of God ( Gen.18:25)

* Everyday we should be completely occupied by appreciation for the Promises of God (Titus 1:2)

* Everyday we should be bursting with praise for the Power of God (Acts 1:8)

* Everyday we should be teeming with indebtedness for His Son Jesus paying a debt we could never pay. (Isaiah 53:5)

Side Note: Think about this, when something is full of one thing, there is no room for anything else; so it only stands to reason that if we are thank–ful(l), there will be is no room for complaining and self pity. No matter what is going on in our lives there are so many more things to be thankful for, those are the things on which we should focus.

But, not only are we to be full of thanks, we are also called to Give; offer, present, hand over, impart, communicate, expose, disclose and make known our thanks to our God.

Don’t you know that Thanks is an offering? Just as we offer money, time and service, we are to Offer our Thanks to The Lord our God.

I don’t know about you, but I love the holiday season. People are always kinder and friendlier, so it’s almost sad when the holiday ends, but Praise God that in the Body of Christ Thanksgiving is the holiday that never ends and God gives us cause to celebrate it everyday.

Oh Give Thanks Unto the Lord For He Is Good!!!

Come on Out!

2008-11-18T09:33:00.005-05:00

Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: Nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.
Luke 5:4-6

Simon Peter and others had spent the whole night fishing and hadn’t caught anything. First, I need you to keep in mind that these men were fisherman by trade, this was how they made a living and no fish meant no money; second, it is safe to say they were experts fishers so they knew what they were doing.

With that said, after Simon Peter had fished all night to no avail, Jesus says to him, got out into the deep water and cast your net. At that point Simon Peter, probably tired and frustrated, says to Jesus, we have already labored all night and didn’t catch anything, and in my mind I imagine that Peter’s tone might have contained a little duh, indicating that he was not new to the fishing game. He could even have been thinking to himself, it’s not the way I’m fishing , there are no fish to be had. Peter then goes on to say, but at your word Master, even though it doesn’t make sense to me and even though I can’t see how it’s going to make a difference, I will do as you have instructed. It was then that Simon Peter found himself with a net filled to the point of breaking- it was then that his circumstance changed.

In order to make my point for the day, I first want to give meaning to the word night. In the spiritual realm the night as nothing to do with the time of day, but it has everything to do with what is going on in your life. Our night is a time of trial or struggle, and it can even be a time of separation from God, meaning that we have not given God his proper place in our lives. It is during our night time, that we are apt to try any number of things in our own power to bring us to the light of day - to bring our trial, our struggle, to an end.

We like Peter might spend all night trying to change our circumstance using our expert skills and relying on our intellect. Sometimes we are just so educated and so skilled that we think we have all the answers. We think to ourselves – “I got this” or “ I can handle this on my own.” But it wasn’t until Peter humbled his knowledgeable self and recognized Jesus as Master in the midst of his circumstance, that there was any hope for change in his circumstance.

We like Peter might spend all night doing the same thing over and over again hoping for a different result. There is a saying that I posted on my refrigerator for my children when they were teenagers and it said, “If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten”. It wasn’t until Peter acted on the Lord’s instructions to do something different that Peter’s circumstances changed.

So here’s the question what time of day is it for you? Maybe it's time for you to...

Give the Lord His proper place in our life
Loose the “I Got This” mentality
Realize the Lord’s instructions may not make sense to you, but obey them any way, He knows what He’s doing!!!!

Tired of your night? Well, Come on Out!

Don't Leave Home Without It!

2008-11-13T10:59:00.003-05:00

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Psalm 119:105

In 1940, author Barbara M. Bowen published the book Strange Scriptures That Perplex the Western Mind. In it she described a trip she and her companions took on the backs of donkeys from Emmaus to Jerusalem late one night.

While they were riding they came upon a long, narrow, stony path, filled with stones and lots of places to trip and fall. In a distance, Barbara and her friends noticed some men walking on this road, and with each step those men took a little light shot out before them.

When the men finally got close enough the travelers noticed that some of the men had straps tied around their ankles with little clay lamps attached; and the other’s carried larger clay lamps in their hands. They would swing the lamps a few feet before them to throw light on the unsafe path.

That light kept them from hurt, harm and danger!

This is a great description of what the word of God is to us as believers. The word of God directs us in every area of our life. As a light the word will direct us in our choices, and illuminate the necessary steps we need to take to stay on the right path.

Additionally, because the enemy sets traps and snares all around us in order to trip us up, the word of God, through the power of the holy spirit will reveal to us that which is in our path to cause us to fall.

But not only that, scripture is the lamp that shines the light on Us to reveal those hidden things in our lives that keep us from an intimate walk with God. The only thing that can get rid of darkness is light, but in order for scripture to truly be light in our lives we must have an understanding of God’s word and then we must have desire to apply the word to our lives.

Can you imagine what a dark place the world would be for us without with out the light of God’s word? It is the light that gives us the hope we need to make it through those rough spots in life. It is the light that let’s us know that even with our short-comings there is still hope for us.

The Light of God’s Word… Don’t Leave Home Without It!

Have An Encouraging Day!!!

2008-11-10T22:19:00.005-05:00

Do not let any foul language come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29

It doesn’t get much plainer than that!!!! As followers of Jesus Christ we are not to let any foul language come out of our mouths! Can you imagine Christians using foul language? :)

I have to say I love the apostle Paul because he was always “checking” the church. It might seem strange to some that Paul continually felt the need to address the churches un-Christ-like ways, but it is was as necessary then as it is today.

There is really only one point I want to make today and that is …while foul language Is curse words, it is not Just curse words.

Foul language includes language that results in bitterness, fury, anger, malice and, spiritual death and decay. Foul language crushes the hopes and the sprit of another.

The bible says, with our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and blessings out of the same mouth… This should not be!

We must be careful that what we speak is edifying, and encouraging to the hearer; that the hearer is better off for having heard our words. That doesn’t mean you don’t address problems, but it does mean that whatever you do, you do it with an attitude of building up and not tearing down.

Look around you, who needs to be built up?
Why not Have an encouraging Day?

Don't Write Them Off!

2008-11-10T08:46:00.002-05:00

Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. Galatians 6:1a

Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3b

One of the responsibilities for those of us who go by the name of Christ is bringing restoration to the sinner. And though in our scripture from Galatians Paul is speaking of those in the church who have sin, I believe this scripture is also a good for dealing with the unsaved.

Sadly, some of us have become so prideful in our Christianity that we look down on anyone who isn’t a Christian, or, in our delivery of the need for repentance, we forget to be gentle and kind. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying we should water down the truth of God’s judgment and punishment of sin, but our delivery should be such that people don’t automatically feel like we ourselves are condemning them. It is not for us to write people off as hopeless.

Anytime we who go by the name of Christ can hold up signs dogmatically telling the homosexual community they are all going to burn in hell, while forgetting that because of what Jesus did on the cross there is still hope for them, we are missing the mark because we have neglected to gently and kindly offer them the hope which is in Christ Jesus!

Anytime we who go by the name of Christ can see someone who may be an alcoholic vagrant, and write them off as never being more than that, we are missing the opportunity to gently and kindly offer them the hope which is in Christ Jesus!

Maybe it’s a prostitute, a drug addict, an adulterer or a murderer; or maybe it’s a Buddhist, a Muslim, a Jehovah’s Witness, or even an atheist; when we write them off as never being more than that, we are missing the opportunity to gently and kindly offer them the hope which is in Christ Jesus!

We have all heard the phrase you catch more flies with honey, well that is sort of the premise here, people are more apt to listen when spoken to gently and lovingly.

Remember, when we were lost in the filth of our own sins, God didn’t brow-beat us, He didn’t write us off as hopeless, His word says that because of His love; His endless, uninterrupted love for us; that it was with loving-kindness, tender–compassion, that He dragged us out of our sinful state.

So as we are to be imitators of Christ, when we come across those in sin, let us through loving kindness and tender compassion, offer them the hope that is Christ Jesus… Don’t Write Them Off!

Yes We Can!

2008-11-05T12:42:00.002-05:00

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 1Timothy 2:1-3a

It’s over and it’s done. God’s Will, be it perfect or permissible, is done. America has chosen its first Black President. While we as Christians may differ in our political affiliations and may not agree with the majority’s choice, I have to believe that the Word of God is still the standard by which we live.

So here's the thing; despite our differences, can we as Christians pray and intercede for the safety, guidance and wisdom of President Elect Obama? Can we pray that the Lord would bless and keep this family strong under the pressures that come along with holding this office? Yes We Can!

Can we as Christians do all that we can to be peaceable with, and show the love of God to, those who may not agree with the outcome of this election? Yes We Can!

As Christians who can do all things through Christ, Yes We Can rise to the occasion and be a blessing to this family who may never know that we are praying for them!

Flesh Or Spirit?

2008-11-04T12:08:00.006-05:00

That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. John 3:6

In this passage Jesus was talking to Nicodemus about being born again – about being saved. Jesus tells Nicodemus that we must be born again, and Nicomdemus ask the question how can a man re-enter his mother’s womb? Jesus lets him know that what He is talking about is spiritual rebirth. Flesh gives birth to flesh and spirit gives birth to spirit. In other words once we have been born in the flesh, our focus needs to be on our spirititual rebirth, after all it is the spirit that really matters. And with that brief synopsis of this scripture some would package this message up and tie with a bow – ready to be presented as is.

But before we close the lid I would like to add this perspective; what about our motives, our relationships, our attitudes, our treatment of others and even what we offer up to God Hmself; are these things born of our flesh or of our spirit?

For instance, when we do things for others, is it simply because we can benefit from it - born of our flesh or, because we love our neighbor as oursleves - born of our spirit. What we do in the flesh carry’s no weight for us with God, it's only what we do in the spirit that counts, in this instance, the Sprit of Love.

Often times we want the Lord to bless what we have conceived or done in the flesh, but you can't expect the Lord to spiritually bless your fleshly mess!

My point is that everything we do is either born of our flesh or born of our spirit, and it’s only what we do in the spirit that pleases God!

Are You Persuaded?

2008-10-31T11:01:00.003-04:00

for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. 2Timothy 1:12b

As Christians we believe in the death, the burial and the resurrection; simply put, we believe in Jesus Christ! We believe in the blind He healed, the dead He raised and the hungry He fed. We believe in the sea He calmed and the water He walked upon. But to what degree do we really believe Christ? Is our belief only in what He did back in biblical times or does it extend to us today?

Do you know that you can commit everything in your life to the Lord? Your marriage. Your children. Your health. Your job. Jesus can take care of what you can’t.

He is waiting for you to commit every area of your life to him so that you can experience the peace that surpasses all understanding, but First...
You Must Be Persuaded!

Signs!

2008-10-30T11:11:00.005-04:00

I tell you the truth, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me." John 13:20

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, Colossians 2:6

Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35

Okay, I’m all for the “church signs”. You know the ones I mean; “that love thy neighbor thing, I meant it-God” or “Know Jesus Know Peace – No Jesus No Peace”. But I saw a sign recently that said “try Jesus-if you don’t like him the devil will always take you back”--- What in the hip-hop is that suppose to mean? That is such a biblical untruth I wish the Lord had miraculously made the sign disappear into thin air.

Where in the bible does the Lord ever tell us to try Jesus? We are called to believe on Jesus, accept Jesus, receive Jesus and even come to Jesus… but try Jesus?…. What is He a sweater, you try Him on and if you don’t like the fit you put Him back on the rack?

Believe me if anyone ever “tried” Jesus , didn’t like Him and wanted to return to their old way of life; they did not have to worry whether or not the devil would take them back, because they never left him. The bible says, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62

Now this may sound petty to some, but as Christians it is so important that we are careful how we present the gospel to unbelievers and we need to be mindful of the methods we use to try to bring them in. We can without meaning any harm, do a lot of harm not only to the way the church is perceived but also to the person who is looking for the Truth that is only found in the Lord Jesus Christ.

When God said in Matthew 12:36 that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken- He Meant it!

Just In Case!

2008-10-29T11:22:00.004-04:00

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits,
even the God of our salvation. Psalm 68:19

When I first saw this scripture it excited me. What a Wonderful God we serve. While this scripture speaks of the faithfulness of our God who bears our burdens and carries us day by day, it conjures up a vision in my mind of a parent sending their child off to school each day with a backpack filled everything they might possibly need for the day and some extra, just in case.

I can remember when my children were young, it was not unusual for me to purchase things that were not on the required list of school supplies and I would put them in their backpacks, just in case.

It is important to note that they didn’t need every item everyday; on certain days they might need one and on other days another; but everyday I packed them because I didn’t know when they might need them or who they might need to share them with.

And so it is with our Heavenly Father, EACH day he sends us out into the world with our spiritual backpacks filled with what we might need for ourselves that day, and some extra just in case we might need to share with someone else.

Everyday He sends us out into the world with …

Forgiveness
Compassion
Patience
Faithfulness
Kindness
Goodness
Gentleness
Mercy
Grace
Protection
Strength
Helps
Healing
Deliverance
Joy
A Garment of Praise
Authority and a whole lot more,

Just In Case!

Fix You First!

2008-10-28T08:25:00.004-04:00

Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
Matthew 7:3-5

There have been times in my life when I have been guilty of seeing the wrong in others and not seeing the wrong in myself, and if you are honest with yourself, so have you. We as humans seem to hold others to a higher standard than we do ourselves. We can always find a way to rationalize away our faults and short comings, but not those of others, and our double standard itself makes our own behavior unacceptable. A speck of sawdust in a neighbor's eye might impair their vision, but a plank embedded in one's own eye would certainly cause one to be blind.

Isn’t strange that a person can be in a sinful, miserable condition, and be totally blind to it, but can easily see that same condition in another?

Being blind to your own faults can cause you to miss what the Lord is trying to say to you or where he might be trying to lead you. For example, have you ever been in a church service and heard a sermon and said to yourself, so-n-so should have been here to hear this; or maybe you were reading the Word and instead of allowing it to convict you, your first thought is of someone else’s faults. You have missed the opportunity to hear from God and be changed!

How can we line ourselves up with the word of God, if we are too busy trying to "line someone else up", to realize that we ourselves are "out of line".

Fix You First!

Why We Go!!!

2008-10-24T09:56:00.004-04:00

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 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. Hebrew 10:24-25

I have often heard people say, I don’t have to go to church to worship God or I don’t have to go to church to get the Word. And they are right, they don’t. In this technologically advanced world that we live in, you get can get the Word in any number of ways. It is also true that you can worship God at home, but did you know that you don’t go to church just to Worship God or to get the Word? Did you know that you don’t go to church just for you?

The Word of God tells us another reason we should go to church is for our brothers and sisters in Christ!

We are to bring about the love of Christ in one another, by showing the love of Christ to one another.

We are to watch over one another so that we stimulate each other to do good works for the Lord. Sometimes our brothers and sisters may not even know they have a gift, or they may not feel they have anything to offer the Lord. It is our job to encourage them in the areas were we see what they don’t, and we can only see those things if we see them on a regular basis.

The Word of God tells us as believers not to neglect coming to church and worshiping together, and that when our brothers and sisters in the faith don’t come regularly we are to warn them of the dangers of not doing so and encourage them back into regular worship.

So while yes, you could get the Word at home and even worship God at home, encouraging and building one another up, is another reason Why We Go!!

Rest

2008-10-23T09:02:00.003-04:00

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:41-42

In the verses prior to our scripture, Jesus and His disciples come to the home of Mary and Martha; and while Martha busies herself with what she feels has to be done in order to receive Jesus, Mary sits at the feet Jesus listening to him speak. Martha, who is upset, says to Jesus, “Tell her to help me” and Jesus responds with today’s scripture text.

This text could preach in a few different ways;

Martha is not satisfied with Mary's method of receiving Jesus. She feels in order for Mary to properly receive Christ into their home she needs be working to get things ready. Would be sermon title: It Has Nothing To Do With Works!
Martha feels like Mary is not doing enough to serve the Lord; she should be doing something greater. Would be sermon title: Many Members-Many Functions!
Then there is the choice between doing something that is good and doing something that is better. What Martha was doing was not a bad thing in and of itself. But the better thing was to actually spend time with the Lord - to build a relationship with Him. Would be sermon title: Get to Know Him!

These are the things that might jump out at you as you read this scripture. But as I thought about what the "not so obvious" message might be, this is what I found.

Can you imagine the stress and anxiety Martha must have felt as she thought of all the things that needed to be done in preparation for Jesus’ visit. Wanting everything to be just right, if she was anything like she I am when I am expecting company, she was driving everyone around her nuts.

In much the same way, we like Martha spend our day worrying about one thing or another. How we are going to pay our bills, what will we do if this or that happens; how will we fit all we need to do into our tiny little 24 hour day.

Mary shows us what we all should learn how to do and that is rest in the Lord. I believe prior to His arrival, Mary was probably feeling the same anxiety Martha felt as she anticipated the Lord’s arrival. But once her Lord was actually there with her, all of her stress and anxiety dissipated and she realized He was all she really needed.

The Lord is with us, He says in His word, I will never leave you nor forsake you. Whatever is going on in your life, don’t stress, don’t be anxious… REST in The Lord!

He's Still Good!

2008-10-22T09:16:00.004-04:00

the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. Psalms 100:5
Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way Psalms 25:8
For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee Psalms 86:5

You got a New Job… God is Good!
You got some money… God is Good!
You got your healing… God is Good!
You got a new car… God is Good!

Yes, the Bible tells us over and over again about the goodness of God. It tells us that every good and perfect gift comes from him, and when we are the recipient of those gifts we should praise God for them; our response should be God Is Good!!

But on the flipside;

You just lost your job…
You lost all your money…
You are sick in your body…
Somebody stole your car…

And you know what… GOD IS STILL GOOD!

My point here is that God’s goodness has nothing to do with what he does or does not give to us. GOD IS GOOD and GOOD IS GOD. They can’t be separated.

No matter what is going on in our lives, those words should come from our lips. Our praise should be the result of Who God IS not what God DOES.

After all, the most-goodest thing he could have ever done for you was to send Jesus. :)

So even if you are not having the greatest of days today, remember..
God Is Still Good!!!

How Much Power You Got?

2008-10-21T09:27:00.004-04:00

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Ephesians 3:20

I am not going to belabor this scripture today. We all know it; we have quoted it, and at some point have heard it preached. So we understand exactly what it means when it says that our (infinite) Lord is able to do exceeding, immeasurably, superabundantly more, above all our (finite) minds could think to ask for. But, my focus today is on the qualifier…

ACCORDING to the POWER that WORKETH in us.

Now we know that all power comes from God, and that power works in us through Christ who dwells within us, so in part, this is what our scripture is speaking of; but there are two powers at work here, the other being our faith.

God has the capability to fill your life with overflow. He is able to give you abundance in every area of your life. However, it’s done according to the power (FAITH) that works in you.

It’s dependant on whether you have faith, not only in His ability but His willingness to do it
It is done in proportion to the power that works in you. To the degree that you believe, you receive.
It is done when the power that is within you is in agreement with The Power that is within you. When what you are believing God for is in agreement with the His Word.

Yes God can bring abundant overflow to you life and that’s not just money!!! That’s God taking ANYTHING in your life that is broke-down and not only fixing it, but making it better than it ever was before.

GOD says, I can but, How Much Power You Got?

Compassion Not Acceptance

2008-10-20T10:31:00.002-04:00

And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. Matthew 14:14

So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him. Mathew 20:34

And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean. Mark 1:41

Have you noticed that as ‘the church” tries to move in directions that are totally against the word of God, you always hear the proponents of such things speak about Jesus’ compassion. It’s as if they are saying because we go by the name of Christ, we should have enough compassion to accept this new movement they are trying to put in place under the umbrella of Christianity. God’s word has clearly set rules and boundaries by which we are expected to live and we don’t get to decide which ones. Either the Bible is ALL God’s Word or NONE of it is God’s Word.

Yes, Jesus was compassionate and as you read the word of God you will find many scriptures that speak of this fact but, if you pay close attention to what you are reading you will see that Jesus’ Compassion was not Acceptance!

Nowhere in the Word do we see Jesus come in contact with someone who had a sickness that He didn’t heal or who was in a sinful state that He didn’t call them out on. No, Jesus was compassionate to the point of change! It was His compassion that moved him to change the sick into the healed and unclean into the clean. Jesus did not just look at a person and say, oh you’re filled with unclean spirits, I’ll accept that and move on. No, it was more like you have a problem, let me fixed that for you; you’ve got sin in your life, let me tell how to get out of that.

Think about it, wasn't it His compassion that lead Him to the cross?—He saw the filthiness of our sins, climbed up on that cross and changed us from scarlet to white as snow.

So while yes we as the body of Christ are to have compassion for those who are lost in sin, that does not mean that we discontinue spreading the Unmodified word of God!

After all Jesus shows us very plainly that…
Compassion Is Not Acceptance!

Give What You Want!

2008-10-17T08:30:00.001-04:00

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Luke 6:38

This scripture is recited in churches across the country as the introduction to the tithing portion of our services. It has become a key scripture in the church to show us the benefits of tithing, and is used to drive home the point; if you want the Lord to bless you financially you have to give.

But as I read this it became clear to me that this scripture is not just about finances, but it is about every aspect of our lives. It says give and it shall be given unto you, but give what?

Give love and it shall be given unto you..
Give forgiveness and it shall be given unto you…
Give understanding and it shall be given unto you…
Give mercy and it shall be given unto you…
Give respect and it shall be given unto you…

What You Want – You’ve Got To Give.

But it won’t just be given, no it will be pressed down and shaken together. This illustration is an example from Jesus’ time for measuring out grain for purchase. The seller would take a measuring cup and pour the grain in it. After filling it three-quarters full, he would shake it to level out the grain and press it down so more could be put in. The goal was to get as much in the measure as possible.

That’s what God is letting us know, that what we give out – not only to those in our circle and with no strings attached- will given back to us in abundance.

What Do You Want? What are You Giving?

Responsibility Not Excuses

2008-10-16T10:22:00.006-04:00

The man said, "The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it." Then the LORD God said to the woman, "What is this you have done?" The woman said, "The serpent deceived me, and I ate." Genesis 3:12-13

Since he beginning of time – accepting responsibility for our actions has been a problem for mankind.

We all know the story of the garden of Eden, and how when the Lord asked Adam how he knew he was naked, instead of saying Lord I disobeyed- you forgive me, he blames Eve- who responds in-kind and says it was the serpent.

Those of us who have young children see this type of response almost daily. When Johnny is asked why he did a particular thing, he answers, Billy made told me to.

But children aren’t the only culprits, we as adults are guilty of shifting the responsibility for our actions also. We can always come up with an excuse to try to right our wrong. But what I find interesting is this, after we have made the wrong choices and we are honest with ourselves, our excuses aren’t even good enough for us.

God has given each of us the ability to choose; and choose we do. Everyday we are called to make choices from the simple; what eat, what to wear, walk or ride- to the more difficult; forgive, be faithful, show love, etc, and every choice we make yields a consequence. No matter how large or small, EVERY choice produces an outcome. Unfortunately what we do a lot of times is make Permanent Choices- for Temporary Situations.

When we read this scripture text in its entirety, we realize that Adam and Eve made a permanent choice to disobey God and die, for a temporary situation- the lust of the eye!

What temporary situation caused you to make a permanent choice that has shaped your life into what it is today? In other words how did you get where you are?

If we look back over the course of our lives, we will realize that where we are in life is a direct result of the choices we have made. However, we can praise God that each new day brings new opportunity to make good choices. Choices for which we won’t have to make excuses, but those we can be proud to take responsibility for.

Help Not Hindrance

2008-10-15T09:30:00.003-04:00

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.4Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Romans 12:3-5

As born again believers, we collectively make up the Body of Christ and individually are parts of one another [mutually dependent on one another]. Just as each member of the human body has a different function, the Lord has given us as believers different functions. The Body of Christ is not made up of all apostles, all prophets or all healers. No, in the Body of Christ, some are fitted for and called to one type of work; others for another type of work.

Side note: God Calls You to Do What He Has Fitted You to Do!

We need one another to get the WHOLE job done. So while my function may not be the same as yours, it is equally as important to the Body!

We are to do all the good we can, one to another, for the common benefit of building up the body of Christ, and when we are not doing that good, we become a hindrance -we stifle the progress of "the church". One thing that keeps us from operating within the body as we should is Pride. We are under the misconception there are high positions and low positions within The Body. Wrong! All positions are high Positions. It is a privilege to operate in any position for The Lord!

God says, don’t think more highly of yourself (or your position) than you should. After all it is by His grace that you are able. If you remember it is not you who bring goodness to God, but God who brings goodness to you, pride shouldn't become an issue.

Just as the members of our physical body are not meant to do all things; the eye was not called to see, hear, think, and smell; nor was the ear called to walk, talk, speak and taste; God has not called any one person to do everything.

Simply because you excel in your call does not mean you can do mine with the same excellence. No one member should think it is their responsibility to do everything, nor should they think they are qualified to do everything.

It is only as we accept our part of The Body that it will take on real meaning for us. When we understand what God has fitted us for and called us to, then we can operate with a spirit of

Help Not Hindrance!

Get Blessed...For Real!

2008-10-14T09:59:00.002-04:00

Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Psalm 37:3-4

I am one who enjoys the benefits of technology, computer technology in particular. I love receiving e-mails from friends and loved ones that let me know they are thinking of me and I am special to them; and most of them I love forwarding to others in an attempt to brighten someone else’s day, but I have to draw the line at passing along electronic blessings.

You know the ones I mean, “send to seven people and receive a blessing in seven minutes.” Or send this to ten people and within five minutes your phone will ring with the answer you have been praying for. They usually end with the tag line “Don’t break this or you’ll miss your blessing!”

How dare we reduce the power and the love of God, into something as trivial as a “chain letter/email”!

How dare we minimize all that Christ endured on the cross so that we could be inheritors of the blessings of God, by giving power to something as frivolous as an emailable, animated jesus, who is knocking on our email doors to bring us our blessings!

How dare we as Christians by forwarding this nonsense, mislead someone who might me a babe in Christ into thinking this might really work for them. We are to lead by example!!!

God says if you want to be blessed, Forget The Emails! What you need to do is lean on, rely on, and be confident in the Lord. God tells us we must to delight in Him which is another way of saying we need to keep company with Him!

Granted, technology is far reaching, but it can never reach to the heavens to pour you out more blessings than you have room enough to receive; only God can do that!

So why not Get Blessed…. For Real!

I'll Trade You!

2008-10-13T10:43:00.003-04:00

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; Isaiah 61:3

This passage written by the prophet Isaiah, is prophetically proclaiming the day of salvation. The day when Jesus would come to offer Himself as a sacrifice for sinners. When He would exchange all that He is for our sins; but this scripture also speaks to those of us who have already received God’s merciful gift of salvation.

Today’s scripture is certainly cause for us to give a shout of praise. The Lord through his infinite mercy and complete faithfulness to us is saying, “You’ve got something I want, and I’ve got something you need… I’ll Trade You!!!

I’ll trade you the ashes in your life; those areas of your life that appear to be in ruins; those things that to the physical eye appear to be hopeless.

The Lord says I’ll trade you the pain in your life; those things that are causing your heart to ache, like the grief that comes from losing a loved one.

I’ll trade you says the Lord, that spirit of heaviness that is weighing you down; those things that are draining you both physically and spiritually.

Whatever is in your life that is broken, painful, or weighing you down, God says, I'll take it from you and in exchange I will give you...

The beauty of hope that is in knowing I can breathe New Life into any dead area of your life – knowing that with Me ALL Things is possible!

The joy of knowing that I am near to the broken hearted- I am with you in the midst of your pain and I WILL bring you out!

A garment of praise to replace that weight you have been shouldering – knowing that as you Praise Me, your burdens will be lifted!

So the question is, why are you holding on to it, when God is saying,
I’ll Trade You!!!

Which Way You Walking?

2008-10-10T10:38:00.002-04:00

the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.Psalm 84:11b

This scripture tells us that God will give us His undeserved favor, that is His Grace; And then goes on to tells us how He will give us the fullness of Himself, that is Glory. Wow!!!!

Think about it, when God gives you Glory you get, His love, His mercy, His holiness and His strength! He gives you all the things you need to walk uprightly, to walk the way He would have you to.

And when you walk in accordance with God’s word, he says that there is NO GOOD thing that he will withhold from you?

What good thing do you want God to give to you? Which way are you Walking?

What Day is It?

2008-10-09T09:43:00.005-04:00

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires,2 Timothy 4:3

If you ask any Christian to give you the signs of the “last days”, most could name at least one or even two. They might speak about false prophets, wars and rumors of wars, famines or even tribulations, and they would be right in naming any one of these, after all…

In the last several years many have claimed to be the Messiah. Jim Jones and David Koresh are just two examples, but there are many others who didn’t make the front pages of our newspapers.
Do I really have to say anything about war? There are wars being fought all over the place. Not only that but, rumors of wars in all areas of the world now occur more often thanks to modern technology.
Famine has spread across Africa, but the undernourished are not limited to that area. A large population of the world suffers from a shortage of food.
Christians and Christianity are under attack. In our country Christians are ridiculed, hated, and discriminated against. But in many other countries Christians are killed for their faith.

And while yes these are last days signs, today’s scripture speaks of another sign that is also indicative of the last days. The Bible said the time would come when people would have no interest in solid biblical teachings. They will only want to hear what makes them feel good. They will want what is pleasing to their ear and gratifying to their flesh.

Just think about how many people go from church to church until they find someone who is preaching just enough Word; never stepping on their toes or calling them to the carpet for the way they live. Give them a pastor whose sermons consist of reciting hymns and throwing out catchy phrases; I’m too blessed to be stressed, or I’m too anointed to be disappointed. Or a service where you spend half your time talking to your neighbor, slapping five, or being told when and where to clap. In some cases (not all) you have done nothing more than attended a Sunday morning pep rally and called it worship.

Understand that I’m not saying that these kinds of things are wrong in and of themselves, but I am saying for a lot of people Church has become a form of entertainment and as such, less and less Life Changing Word is being preached.

Say for instance you have the opportunity to share the Word with someone who is need of a financial blessing and you tell them that God says "I will supply all our needs." Well they just love hearing that. They get excited, praising the Lord all over the place. But tell them, seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added…, and the response is somewhat different.

You see people don’t want to hear that their “walk” might not be conducive to receiving from God. They don’t want hear that they need to change or line up with God’s word, no, they only want to hear what makes them feel good. The Word goes on to say that because they want to be made to feel good about their lives and their sins, they grab a hold of false teachings and man-made religions. They turn their backs on the truth so that they don't have see themselves for what they are, they don't have to give up their pet sins.

My brothers and sisters in Christ, all we have do is look around us to know What Day it Is!!!!

There's Nothing Like It!

2008-10-08T10:05:00.003-04:00

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

The bible is not a book of fairytales, a form of entertainment or, a book that was simply written by men. No, the bible is the collective inspirations of God. God did not give us his word simply as a history lesson but, it was given to us as a way of uncovering false teachings and untruths.

God also gave us his word to show us how we are to live our lives and, to reveal us to us. How many times have you seen yourself or your circumstance in the word of God? The bible is THE standard by which we as Christians are to live. The bible is vital to our well being in many ways, for instance God says it is…

Profitable for doctrine- The bible sets beneficial guidelines for us to live by. Does your lifestyle fall within God’s guidelines or, are you pretty much setting your own or allowing the world to set them for you?

For reproof - Are you heeding the warnings that God has given us with regard to the consequences for sin or, are you one of the ones who think that because God is Love, He’s not a God of Judgement?

For correction – Are you modifying /altering your lifestyle to fit God’s Word or are you altering THE Word to fit your lifestyle?

Instruction in righteousness - Are you taking note of the teachings God has given us to live decently and in holiness or have you adapted the world’s view of what decency is?

All of these things are key to our walk, as they will aid in making us perfect (mature) Christians, complete (missing nothing) and skillfully equipped to do God’s good work, which should be our common goal!

The Word of God… There’s Nothing Like it!

Transformers... More Than Meets the Eye!

2008-10-07T10:25:00.003-04:00

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:1-2

This morning’s scripture tells us that we are to present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to the Lord.

When you make a sacrifice, it costs you something. To be a living sacrifice means that you deny yourself daily in order to glorify God.

We are to present ourselves holy, unto God. We are to be sanctified, meaning that we are to set ourselves apart from the world to be used by God.

We are to make sure that our lives are acceptable to God. We are to live a life suitable for us to go by the name Christian.

But then the word goes on to tell us that this is our reasonable service. First the Lord is saying, I’m not asking you to do anything unreasonable because after all I have done for you, after the sacrifice I have made for you, the least you can do is to keep yourself holy and set apart from the world; and second, what I am asking you to do is not unreasonable, because I have already empowered you to be able to accomplish it.

The Lord goes on to tell us not to be conformed to this world. We as Christians need to heed this warning now more than ever. Just look at the way the world is teaching that the things of God are wrong and the things of the enemy are right. The definitive lines of what is morally right and wrong are being blended in such a way that it is becoming harder for the world to distinguish between the “believer” from the “non-believer”.

The Lord says we are not to allow the world to set our moral boundaries or define what is right and wrong for us, but we are to be transformed by the renewing of our mind; not only for the purpose of our own spiritual growth but, so that we can then go out and transform the world!

In order to be a transformer, you yourself have to be transformed from the inside out. Real transformation takes place in the heart first. Just think of all the people out there who do great deeds, i.e., feed the needy, give away huge amounts of money to the poor and yet they don’t believe in the moral absolutes that God has set forth. What I’m trying to say is that everything is not always what it seems. Spiritual transformation is not only about what you can see with your eyes.

Brothers and sisters, you cannot renew your mind spiritually without the word of God. You can’t know what is truly right or wrong in the sight of God unless you know the Word, nor can you transform the world. The Word is where it begins and where it ends. ALL the answers to life’s questions and all of life’s do’s and don’ts are in the Word!

With all of the political correctness of our society, and the blurred lines of right and wrong, what the world needs now is Transformers, but remember, being a
Transformer is More Than Meets the Eye!

Take the Call!

2008-10-06T09:07:00.002-04:00

9a But I, with a song of thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. Salvation comes from the LORD." 10 And the LORD commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land. Jonah 2:9a-10

While most of us know the story of Jonah and the Whale, I hope to show you how our lives may be running parallel to Jonah’s in some ways.

The Lord had placed the call of prophet on Jonah’s life, and as a prophet Jonah was not only obligated to preach God’s word, but to obey God’s commands.

God commanded Jonah to go into the city of Nineveh and call the people to repentance. Well this was not something Jonah was happy about doing because,

1. He hated the people of Nineveh and,

2. He didn’t want them to receive God’s mercy –
he didn’t think they deserved it.

So Jonah tries to get out of doing what God has called him to do by running away and, because of his disobedience Jonah soon ends up in the belly of a whale- Jonah ends up in a dark place. And while in his dark place Jonah cries out, I’m worshiping you, God, calling out in thanksgiving! And I'll do what I promised I'd do! In other words, I will accept my responsibility and do what you have commanded.

It was then that the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land. It was then Jonah was released from his dark place.

So here’s the thing, each of us as Christians have a call on our lives. God has given each of us a job to do. So let me ask you this, have you accepted your call or are you running from it?
What is your reason for not doing what God has called you to do?

Is it because …

*It’s not something that you like to do or it’s not an easy task

*Or maybe the person who would benefit from what God has told you to do isn’t one your favorite people, maybe you don’t feel like they deserve to be blessed.

There really is No acceptable reason for not doing what God has called you to do. God has given you the power and the heart to do ANYTHING that he asks of you. You just have to be willing to yield.

Perhaps you too have found yourself in a dark place. Well if that is the case maybe it’s time for you to Take the Call!

Where You Keep Your Focus!

2008-10-03T10:17:00.004-04:00

24But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. 27But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink Matthew 14:24, 27-30a

Peter felt an array of emotions on this day. He was first afraid because the storm he found himself in was bad, one he quite possibly may not survive.

But then in the midst he saw Jesus, and that gave him comfort in the storm.

Then Jesus bid him come, to step out of the boat where he was trapped by the storm. This gave Peter hope that he didn’t have stay, that he could move on.

So Peter focused on Jesus and he walked. I imagine Peter looking straight ahead to Jesus, staring directly into his eyes and taking his first step. Then he takes his second, third, fourth and fifth step, all the while his eyes are glued on Jesus. When suddenly he hears the roaring of the sea and feels the gushing winds; and in that moment he takes his eyes off Jesus. His focus shifts to the storm. He takes the time to look at how bad the storm is and he falls.

So where did that leave Peter? Back where he started, fearful. I want you to understand that Jesus had not left Peter, He was still there! No the problem was that Peter’s focus has changed.

Where is your focus in this storm called today? Are you comforted by the fact that Jesus is with you in the midst of your storm? Are you willing to follow His instructions as a means of getting out of your storm? Are you eye to eye with Jesus, keeping your eyes totally on him, as step by step you walk through your storm?

The storms of life rage ARE going to rage all around you - that is a given, but what is NOT a given is … Where You Keep Your Focus!

3 Simple Rules

2008-10-02T11:13:00.005-04:00

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. James 1:19-20

James lets us know in this scripture how we as Christians are to deal with one another. We are to pay attention to what we say. We are to be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.

Listen First. Before we make a comment we really need to listen to what is being said. Not merely hearing the words, all the while thinking in our minds what our response is going to be. The type of listening James is talking about not only involves listening with our ears, but listening with our hearts. Sometimes there is so much more being said than what we are hearing. The eyes speak, body language communicates, and even countenance has something to say. We Must Listen!!

Slow to Speak. How many times have you spoken too quickly and as soon as the words left your mouth, you wished you could take them back? I know for myself, there have been times when words have come out of my mouth so quickly, that it didn’t seem they even had time to be a thought in my mind.

Sometimes the quickness of our tongue has brought pain to others or has even been the start of a spirit of bitterness that lasted for years. Don’t Speak Too Quickly!!

Slow to Anger. Why are we so touchy? Every little thing causes us to anger, and I do mean LITTLE thing. The bible tells us that nothing good can come from anger; that being angry cannot bring about the righteousness of God in you or in the person with whom you are angry. Our Anger Will NOT Produce The Kind of Life God Wants for US!!!!!!

The next time you are in a conversation or disagreement with your brother or sister in Christ, take the time to really listen to what’s being said, don’t speak too quickly – choose your words carefully, and don’t allow yourself to become angry or offended to easily.

Don't you know that the "world" is watching everything we do.; waiting for that opportunity to say, "aha, and they call themselves a Christian." How we treat one another speaks volumes about what it means to be a Christian. Just think of how much better our witness would be to the non-believer if we follwed these three simple rules.

Got Fruit?

2008-10-01T10:42:00.002-04:00

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; John 15:5a

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

Jesus is letting us know in this scripture that He is the main line. He is the foundation from which every good thing stems.

What an analogy! He is the vine, we are the branches. When we think of what a vine does for it's branches agriculturally, we get a clear picture of what The Vine (Jesus) does for us spiritually...

* The vine gives life to the branches – Jesus gives us new and abundant life
* The vine nurtures the branches - Jesus cares for us
* The vine pushes the branches to bear fruit – Jesus encourages us to
bear fruit

But unlike an earthly branch that can only bear one fruit, we are to bear multiple fruits. The Word of God tells us that if we truly remain (live) in Christ we WILL bear the spiritual fruits of…

* LOVE – a spirit of worship
* JOY – an expressed spirit of love
* PEACE- a spirit free from strife
* PATIENCE – a spirit of endurance without complaining
* KINDNESS – a spirit of helpfulness and compassion
* GOODNESS- a spirit of honesty and decency
* FAITHFULNESS – a spirit of dependability
* GENTLENESS - a spirit of calm
* SELF-CONTROL - a spirit of discipline

You also need to know that a branch weather earthly or spiritual, DOES NOT bear fruit for itself, but for others.

Jesus says “I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you're joined with me and I with you WILL bear fruit."

You say, I am living in the Lord; I read His Word, I go to church, and you may even be saying I teach a bible study, but the question can still be asked….

Got Fruit?

Be Of Good Courage!

2008-09-30T11:05:00.002-04:00

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. Psalm 27:14

I am certain that we all have unanswered prayers in our lives. I’m not talking about the things that God has already said “no” to, I‘m talking about those where the answers haven’t been manifested yet or, where God has not yet given the direction to “move forward”.

Our scripture tells us that we are to wait on the Lord and I believe we all know that means...

* Not moving until God tells us
* Not going until God sends us
* Not answering until God gives us what to say

We are to wait, not doing anything without God’s direction, but it’s HOW we wait that’s key!

The word tells us that while we are waiting, we are to be of good courage.
That is…

* We are to wait bravely, not letting the things happening around us scare us into moving before God gives the go ahead

* We are to wait with strength of mind, which means we are to keep our spirit man in check. We don’t let our mind wander off into the “what-if” zone; dreaming up all kinds of scenarios that might cause us to lose hope

We are to wait with expectancy. Expecting God’s answer and direction, knowing that we WILL see God’s goodness manifested in our situation.

Wait I Say on the Lord and While You Are Waiting…
Be Of Good Courage

Do You Have IT?

2008-09-29T09:35:00.002-04:00

And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour. Matthew 9:20-22

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

I believe that most of us are familiar with today’s scripture, so I won’t take the time to re-tell the story. I just want to know, Do You Have IT?

This woman had IT! She couldn’t see IT but, nonetheless, she had IT.

Had what, Faith? Well, yes she had faith, but that’s not IT.

Hope? Yes, she had that too, but that’s not IT either!

Then what was IT? you ask.

IT was her healing. Because she was sure of what she hoped for and certain of what she could not see, this woman had her healing even before she saw it.

It was not the touching of the garment that gave IT to her, it was the fact she was convinced that IT was available to her and assured she would receive IT.

So what are you in hope of?

Maybe you are like the woman in our scripture hoping for healing. Maybe it’s deliverance from a particular stronghold. Maybe your hope is for you child, your spouse, or a friend. Maybe your hope is for a new job or favor with the job you are in.

My question to you is…

Do You Have IT?

Rejoice!!!!

2008-09-26T09:36:00.003-04:00

This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

Be glad that no matter what happens in THIS DAY, it will not take our Lord by surprise. He is prepared for action.

Just think, God knew everything that would happen on THIS DAY all around the world and still he allowed THIS DAY to be. Rejoice in THIS DAY for the Lord has filled it with purpose.

And because He has allowed us to see THIS DAY, we are a part of it's purpose.

Rejoice!!!!!

The Choice is Yours!

2008-09-25T10:21:00.003-04:00

I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: Deuteronomy 30:19

Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Proverbs 18:21

The Lord says that he has set before us life and death. Now were this message directed to unbelievers, I would be telling you how God had given you the choice between heaven and hell; the choice to be saved or unsaved. But, since my focus is on believers, I need to present our scriptures to you this way. God has set before you life and death, blessing and cursing, all of which are powered by YOUR tongue.

Many of us today are in difficult circumstances and situations based on the words we have spoken. We chose death and cursing instead of life and blessing.

Take for instance the parent who never encouraged their small child. Always told them how inadequate they were. How they would never amount to anything. What type of adult did they grow up to be? Inadequate and not doing much of anything with their life.

Or the wife who constantly let her husband know that even though he worked hard everyday and brought home everything he made, it wasn’t enough; and then took every opportunity to let him know ‘she could do bad by herself. How do suppose that marriage turned out? Just as she spoke it- with her doing bad by herself.

We have to stop speaking negatively about our marriages, our children and even our jobs. We must stop choosing death!

If you are constantly confessing that you are always going to be broke- you’ll never have enough money, chances are you won’t.

If every time you get a sniffle, the first thing you do is confess sickness, chances are you will be sickly. (If not physically – mentally)

In Ephesians 5:1 we are told to be imitators of God and then Bible says that God called those things that were not as though they were Romans 4:17

So how do you speak life and blessing into your life – into your circumstances?
By Confession- You Confess the Word of God Over Your Circumstances.

When your reality is that you don’t have enough – confess, My God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory. Philippians 4:19 KJV

When your reality is that you aren’t feeling well – confess, by His stripes I am healed 1Peter 2:24 KJV

When your reality is that your marriage is falling apart and you are facing temptation—confess - My marriage, is honorable and I will guard the sacredness of sexual intimacy between my spouse and myself. Hebrews 13: The Message

When your reality is that your children seem to be a lost cause – confess, Because I Believe on the Lord Jesus, me and my household will be saved. Acts 16:31 NIV

I need to make one thing absolutely clear. What I am speaking of here is NOT to be confused with the power of positive thinking. The power of positive thinking is totally dependent upon you and your abilities. While speaking life and blessing into your circumstances in totally dependent on God and His abilities.

After you have prayed about your situations, thank God daily for the answers, even before you see them manifested in the physical realm, as a show of faith.

Then as you are faced with the physical reality of your circumstances, call those things that are not as though they were;

* God I thank you for my spouse, for molding them into what you would have them to be.
* God I thank you for providing all of my needs.
* Lord I thank you for my godly children….

God says I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing, all of which are powered by your tongue – your words…

The Choice is Yours!

He Cares For You!

2008-09-24T10:00:00.000-04:00

Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. Psalm 55:22

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1Peter 5:7

These two scriptures are so plain and to the point, that it makes me wonder why we find it so hard to bank on them. In my opinion there is one of two reasons, either we don’t understand what God is saying or, we don’t believe what God is saying.

Why is that we will take our problems to everybody and their mother first, and when we get no results there, THEN we say, I’ve tried everything else, the only thing left to do is pray. Now I’ll try Jesus.

How backwards is that????

Do you know that the word “cast” literally means to throw or to transmit?

Jesus is saying throw all your cares, all your burdens on me. I want you to transmit all your problems to me because, I not only care for you, but I also want to sustain you in your times of difficulty.

How many of the folks you take your problems to really care for you? How many of them want to add your problems to their own? The Big question is, how many of those people can do anything to fix what’s going on in your life?

I’m not saying that it’s wrong to share your problems with your brothers and sisters in Christ, but your first line of defense needs to be Prayer.

What about the times we have taken our burdens to the Lord only to take them back again. You know what I mean; you go to the alter and pray about a thing, and then next day you are worrying yourself silly about it all over again.

It’s like putting out the trash and then deciding you would rather have it in your house so you go back and get it!!!! What’s that about?

Think about this, Jesus bore our sins, doesn’t it make sense that he would want to bear our burdens?
.
Praying to The Father, in the name of The Son, knowing that you can take your problems to HIM and leave them because...

He Cares For You!

Our Hope is Built!

2008-09-23T09:58:00.000-04:00

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Who hasn’t experienced tough times? Christians and non Christians alike go though trials. No one is exempt! We all face periods of difficulty but we, shouldn’t be facing them with the same mindsets.

As Christians we should find encouragement in this scripture, because God is letting us know that no matter what is going on in our lives…. We still have Hope!

When we feel like we are surrounded by trouble, we don’t have to become panic-stricken or depressed. We can deal with the TROUBLE of today, because of our Hope for tomorrow!

We don’t experience hopelessness or lose our joy, just because we don’t know the answers to life problems or what our next step should be. We can deal with the UNKNOWN of today, because of our Hope for tomorrow!

Who hasn’t been wronged or mistreated at some point and time? We can deal with the WRONGS of today, because of our Hope for tomorrow!

We may even feel discouraged for a moment but we are not broken! We can deal with the DISCOURAGEMENT of today, because of our Hope for tomorrow!

In case no one has told you, let me be the first to let you know, that this life is a series of “go-throughs”. We are always going through one thing or another.

We go through easy times, only to come out and go through harder times; only to come out and go through happy times; only to come out and go through sad times; only to come out and go through times of abundance; only to come out and go through times of just enough. This life is a "go through". But Glory to God, we can go through today , because of our Hope for tomorrow which is in Christ Jesus!!!

Our hope comes from knowing that no matter what we are going through, Christ is right there with us! He does not leave us to handle this life on our own. That is our Hope, that He will see us through it all!

We may sometimes feel like we are at the end of our rope, But because we go by the name of Christ, we are NEVER at the end of our hope.

Our Hope is Built on Nothing Less
Than Jesus Blood and Righeousness!!!!
Glory to God!

You Can Cover It!

2008-09-22T11:04:00.000-04:00

He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. Proverbs 17:9

Forgive us our trespasses as we for give those who trespass against us. Matthew 6:12

Have you ever thought about the people who have come and gone in your life? I don’t mean people who were bad for you or those who were leading you down a wrong path? I mean people and/or family members who at some point you considered a friend? Some were even considered your best friend.

What was it that caused those friendships to end? Why are those people no longer a part of our lives?

Most times it's because something was done or said to us that we didn’t like. And I’m not even talking about huge things. I speaking of things that if we were really honest with ourselves, we would have to admit how petty they really were. Think about how many people you have cut-off because of one small offense.

While we may believe our reason for cutting that person off is as simple as; He talked down to me, she disagreed with the way I raise my children, they discussed my personal business with someone else, they broke their promise; the real reason that those people are no longer a part of our lives is that we weren’t “Christ-Like” enough to over look an offense. In other words we chose not to be forgiving.

I love the way The Message puts it, “Overlook an offense and bond a friendship; fasten on to a slight and—good-bye, friend”

When I look back over my own life, I have cut some really good people out of my life for no Good reason.

Our scripture text says that “He who covers over an offense, promotes love.” Well knowing that Jesus in Love, this scripture could also be translated, he who cover’s over an offense promotes Christ. Makes the love of Christ known to others.

Isn’t that what Christ did for us on the cross… covered our offenses? Forgave us our sins.

Be careful not to live an unforgiving life, because each time you say The Lord's Prayer, you are saying, Lord forgive me in the same manner that I forgive others.

When someone hurts or offends you, it may not be easy to let it go,
But through Christ... You Can Cover It!

But Are You Prepared?

2008-09-19T09:55:00.000-04:00

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" Isaiah 6:8

At some point in time you probably have heard a sermon on today’s scripture, where the Pastor tells you how the Lord asked the question “Whom shall I send? And Isaiah answers, “Here I am, send me. The Pastor then looks intently at the congregation and says….

The Lord is still looking for someone to go. Will you go? I said will you go? (louder) WILL YOU GO? And the congregation roars back, YES! I’LL GO! I’LL GO!!

Maybe you have had the opportunity to sing that beautiful song; Lord I’m available to you, I’ll do what you say do, use me Lord… When we sing that song in my church, my Pastor will inevitably asked the question, do you mean that, are you really available? Following her lead we all raise our hands and we all say, Yes!

Although our answer always seems to be a resounding yes, I’m not sure that we have a clear understanding of what it means to be Available to God. Some believe that carving out small blocks of time to fit God into their plans is equivalent to making themselves available. For others its being on hand - willing to go if nobody else will. But when I looked up the definition of the word available this is what I found;

Available (adjective) - meaning suitable or ready for use; having sufficient power and effectiveness; vacant, empty.

What I get from this definition is that Availability equals Preparation!

Think about this. Although Jesus had been on the earth for 30 plus years, even He wasn’t available to God (ready to do the work God had for Him) until He had prepared Himself. Yes, there was tempting during those 40 days in the wilderness, but through prayer and fasting, there was also preparation. Jesus’ ministry did not begin until after that preparation period.

If we use our definition as our guide, when we say “Yes” Lord, I’m Available – Use Me – Send Me, we are really saying…

* Lord you can send me because I am a SUITABLE candidate. I’ve been washed in The Blood .You and I have a personal relationship.

* Lord you can send me because I am READY. I have learned your ways. I have study to show myself approved, a workman who need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2Timothy 2:15

* Lord you can send me because I have EMPTIED myself of myself so that there is room for you to fill me with your POWER, which like your grace is SUFFICENT to enable me to carry out your tasks.

* Lord you can send me because all of the above will work together to make me EFFECTIVE in this position.

And Again we hear the voice of the Lord saying, “I‘ve got a work to be done, who shall I send?”
With our eyes lifted toward the heavens we say, “I’m available Lord send me.”
And we hear Him say, “I see that you are here, I see that your hands are raised in willingness”….

“ But Are You Prepared?”

Don't Get Distracted!!!

2008-09-18T09:46:00.001-04:00

For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11b-13

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds ... James 1:2a

In the scripture from Philippians Paul lets us know that no matter what was going on in his life, he was content, at ease, even comfortable in his situation. Paul was familiar with lack and he had known plenty. No matter what his circumstance was, his focus was the same. Paul set his sights on doing what God had called him to do and not on what he felt God owed him or what he felt he should have been delivered from.

How many times have we been discontented or distracted because we didn’t get something we felt God owed us? Or God didn't take away what we thought we didn't derserve? This is especially true of a lot of Christians who have been fed the lie that when you give your life to Christ everything is going to be smooth sailing….nothing could be further from the truth. The bible tells us to count it joy WHEN we go through trials not IF we go through trials. Trials are what mature and shape us. They will happen!

How is it that Paul didn’t develop a spirit of complaining or self-pity? When he was experiencing those times when there wasn’t enough to eat or he was lacking in some area of his life, what was it that kept Paul in line with God’s plan for him?

The answer is the “3 P’s”…
* Perspective… it’s not about me, it’s about God and the greater good of others
* Priorities … what God has for me to do must come first
* Power Source … the power to do Gods work is not in me, but it comes from Jesus

I believe that through this scripture Paul is letting us know that not only can we DO (physically) all things through Christ, but we can ENDURE (mentally) all things through Christ.

There have been times when we have lost sight of what we were suppose to be doing for the Lord because our circumstances changed for the worse or even for the better. If for the worse, we were so busy worrying, whining or complaining that we couldn't function within the call God has placed on us. If for the better, we were so focused on the THINGS that we have and doing what made us happy, we neglected what God had called us to do. Sometimes it was just because we didn't have an immediate need at a particular time, that the urgency to be obedient to the Lord wasn't there.

While getting “Saved” was all about you,” Walking in Salvation” has nothing to do with you—BUT EVERYTHING to do with others.
God has a work for you to do….. Don’t Get Distracted!

I Got You!

2008-09-16T21:57:00.000-04:00

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3John 1:2

Have you ever felt like God had no clue as to what was going on in your life? Even though you know that God is omnipresent, He must have been somewhere else when stuff started going on in your life? Or have you ever thought there is no way what was going on in your life, was part of God's plan for you?

There are just certain things that we know are not of God; infidelity, sickness and disease, early death, etc. We think these couldn’t be a part of God’s Plan and yet we go through these things, and then some.

Well there are things that even though they don’t come from God, He allows them to happen in our lives. This is what is known as God’s Permissive Will.

These things although painful and unpleasant, aide in bringing us to the place God had planned for us all along. You see, God knows just what it will take to get us to the place he wants us to be.

His plan is to prosper us and not harms us. Remember, prosperity is not limited to finances or material things. God wants us to prosper in all things. He wants every area of our life to flourish; our relationships, our health, our finances and most importantly our soul. How does your soul prosper? Through bible study, prayer and serving others. By focusing more on your spirit man than your flesh.

It’s sad to say but often we do not pray or study the word until something unpleasant happens. Often times we don't reach out to others unless something painful happens. It is not God’s aim to bring hurt or harm to you. It is however God’s aim to grow you. To bring out the very best in you.

Even now during whatever hard time you are facing, God is saying, “Chill! I know what I’m doing. I‘ve got it all planned out. I’m not going to leave you alone in this. I ‘m going to take care of you. There is hope for your future... just hold on,

I Got You!

Where Do You Want To Live?

2008-09-16T10:07:00.000-04:00

LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart; He who does not backbite with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend; Psalm 15:1-3

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, Romans 12:2a

Have you ever been in church service when the praise was so high that everyone around you seemed to be overtaken by the sprit? I don’t necessarily mean “shouting”, but they were so caught up in the Spirit of Worship that they were blind to anything else that might be going on?
While you, although going through the same motions of worship, never seemed to break through to the point where you actually connected with God, or to put it another way, you didn't enter into the presence of the Lord?

The Psalmist asked God, who may live in your tabernacle? Who may dwell in your holy hill? Which is another way of asking? Who May Come into your Holy Presence? Who may LIVE in constant fellowship with you?

Using this scripture, if you have been unable to come into God’s presence, or maybe have been there before, but you just can’t seem LIVE (stay) there, then maybe you need to check yourself.

Is your walk decent, moral and respectable? Or do you walk as the world walks, without concern for what is right and good in God’s sight. Have you like the world, accepted what is wrong as right?

God’s word tells us not to be conformed to the ways of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our mind….. This means you have to read the Word in order to LIVE the word!

You can’t gossip (backbite) and do evil things against your fellow man and expect to Live in God’s Presence. The Bible tells us that God doesn’t even want our offerings until we have made things right with our brother who we have offended or have some sort of quarrel with. That’s how important the way we treat people is to God.

The things listed in our scripture will not only keep you from the presence of God, but they will hinder your prayers from being answered.

In the world there is turmoil, stress, strife and fear. In the Presence of the Lord there is joy, peace, fellowship and the assurance that God not only hears your prayers, but is listening for them... Where Do You Want To Live?

It's All Good!

2008-09-15T10:56:00.000-04:00

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. Jeremiah 33:3

Today’s message is short - but true…

No matter what you are facing right now, have faced in the past or even what you will face in the future, if you love God, and have been called according to purpose (his purpose being salvation) EVERTHING that happens in your life will work to your good.

Somebody is thinking the things that have happened to them, could never bring about anything good. But God’s Word says ALL things - not SOME things.

God’s says for us to call on him and he will answer us.

So What we need to do after the initial shock of the circumstance is to ask God, “Father what would you have me learn from this?” “What good can come from this?” And He will respond with that which we did not know or were unable to see.

Through your own hurt and pain you may be able to reach out to someone else. You may even begin to see your true self and where you need God to remove some things that are hindering you from being all that He would have you to be.

Just Remember No Matter What Life Brings You,
In Christ- It’s All Good!

Just Accept It!

2008-09-13T12:00:00.000-04:00

That “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:9

For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." Hebrews 8:12

Kate was a woman serving a 3 year sentence in a small prison facility for theft. After about 6 months she got word that because she has been model prisoner, and she really wanted to change her ways, she was getting out early.

She was given her release papers and set free. As she left the building she couldn't thank the warden enough; over and over again she thanked him for setting her free, for releasing her from her debt.

One week later the warden arrived at work only to find Kate back in her cell. When asked what she was doing there, she replied “you know what I did”. There is no way you meant to give me a break. There is no way I should be free.

By now I guess you realize that this in a fictional story, but what a great way to make my point, which is, Why is it So Hard for Us to Accept God’s Forgiveness?

So often we keep ourselves locked in the prison of condemnation, playing over and over again in our minds the things that God has already forgiven us for.

But not only do imprison ourselves, we imprison others when we don’t allow them to accept God’s forgiveness. When we continually throw up in the faces of our brother and sisters their sinful past, we send them back to a spiritual prison.

God says that “he will remember our sins no more”. No! God doesn’t have a lapse in memory but, once we have repented and asked for forgiveness he does not hold those things against us. In other words God doesn’t treat us according to our past sins.

That's God's Mercy at it's finest!!!!

Beyond confessing our sins and asking God’s forgiveness there is nothing else we can do about our past. No amount of rehashing or wishing we hadn’t done those things is going to undo them. They can only be undone in the spiritual realm and the only one who can undo them is God.

In fact God’s word tells that He will separate our sins from us as far as the east is from the west.

I would also like to you to know that the Lord not only forgives us but he purifies us. Halleluiah!!! God not only says that I am forgiven but I am purified. One definition of the word purify is; to rid something of harmful, inferior, or unwanted contaminants…. Don’t we have some harmful, inferior and unwanted contaminants our life?

Forgiveness is yours for the asking…. The only thing you need to do is
Just Accept It!

Who Are You Wearing?

2008-09-12T22:51:00.000-04:00

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love... Colossians 3:12-14a

Over the years I have watched many awards shows, The Grammys, The Oscars, etc., and always before the show there is the much anticipated "Red Carpet" interviews. Where one celebrity after another walks down the red carpet and is met by an interviewer who ask the question, "Who are You Wearing?" They respond with designer names like, Versace, Donna Karan, Dolce & Gabanna and list goes on and on.

In this scripture text we as Christians are instructed to clothe ourselves in the same manner as Christ did while he was on this earth, with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness and love. When you think about it, if Christ had not clothed himself in this manner, he never would have been willing to go to the cross for you and me!!!!

Who is it your life wether family, friend or co-worker that you need to be more compassionate and gentle with? Is there someone in your life that requires you being more patient? Are you harboring unforgiveness toward anyone?

Well It's Time For You To Get Dressed In Such A Manner That People Won't Have To Ask "Who Are You Wearing?"...

They Will Be Able To See That You Are Wearing CHRIST!!!!

Peace & Blessings

This Too Shall Pass!

2008-09-11T09:57:00.002-04:00

Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits Psalm 103:1-2a

Today as we face the challenges in our life, let us not “Forget not all His Benefits” (all the things God has done for us in the past). We are to remind ourselves of all the times God has brought us out and know that the Lord will deliver us once again.

Think back to what was your main concern last year and it’s probably not your main concern this year. Whatever it is you are going through, know that at some point it IS going to be a memory.

The important thing for you be focused on is NOT YOUR PROBLEM, but Blessing the Lord even it the midst of what you are going through. The bible says that the Lord dwells in the midst of the praises of his people. So, if you want the Lord to be with you in your time of trouble… You MUST Praise Him even while in the middle of it all.

This scripture says “Let ALL that is within me BLESS HIS holy name”. That means that everything we think, do, feel and are, should be a blessing to God.

Will You Bless the Lord Today?

Peace & Blessing