It's Safe and Warm in God's Loving Arms !

*Note: On the previous blog ( An Open Love Letter) written by my beautiful wife of 31 years on my birthday; I love and adore you and give thanks to God for blessing me with whom He had created for me!

When one thinks of Dallas Texas, it is not usually a thought of a cold and frigid city, but this week it has been extremely cold with the Arctic blast that came in.  High temps of 26 with a real feel between 11- 17 degrees F and icy roads has stopped a lot of movement -  from the schools to the local and county governments, people have gotten extra days off.  Sorry to a lot of us that still have to slowly make it to work by scraping our cars or using DART, the public transportation system.  A loss of power has or had a quarter million people without electricity in their homes, and I would be one of those people.  But it is winter time, and I'm sure there are many people from other parts of the country [where this type of weather is the norm] that are not feeling too sorry for us.  This may be a bit of a natural inconvenience, but there is a spiritual place where there is an abundance of warmth.  A safe and comfortable place where even the weary and tired can relax and know that the cares of the world will be taken care of.  I've been talking about the weather, but this world can be cold and cruel because we can be cold and cruel to one another.  Unfortunately, we spend many moments of our life in the coldness of grief, pain, loss, anxiety, and anger.  However, God is the opposite of the coldness of this world.  God is the warmth of the universe. God is the goodness of the universe.  God is the core unity of the universe.  When you live in God and you turn toward God you can feel His warmth come against the cold cruel nature of life.  In the cold and bitter nature of grief we find a warmth and comfort from God helping us deal with grief.  In the cold and bitter nature of pain, we find a warmth and comfort from God taking the edge off of the pain…often taking the pain away.  In our times of fear and anxiety, we find in God's warmth a help to find the courage to defeat our fears.  We find the courage to defeat our anxiety.  We find in God the warmth to come against the cold nature of the world so we can work for His glory in spite of every adversity.  In our anger and frustration, God comes into our heart to give us His warmth, caring, and love so we can let go of the anger, and let go of the frustration.  Then, as we let go, we find the warmth and warm glow of His freedom full of His grace and love.

Psalm 91:14 "Because he loves me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. (NIV)

An Open BIRTHDAY Love Letter to My Husband

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Happy Birthday to the love of my life from your loving wife.

God has blessed you to see, and be here 54 years on this earth.  He has blessed me with being able to spend 31 plus years of that time with you.  In the beginning of our relationship you told me to pack my bags because you were taking me on a trip.  And you've made good on that statement both figuratively and literally.  Figuratively, darling, you and I together are truly a trip!  Literally we have flown and mostly driven to 36 plus states, some three or four times.

Our marriage has gone through so many changes over the years, but through it all (the good, the bad and the ugly) it all has been one big love fest.  Love always sees us through.

You, Robert Paul Miller, are not just my husband, you are my best friend.  I knew you in your youth and now I know you in your advanced years.  I thank God for you and the years we've been blessed to spend together.  And, knowing you, and our Father [God] the best is yet to come.  After all, I've also seen you go from sinner to saint.  Oh the talents, the gifts, the skills, the testimonies that you have inside of you.

God bless you my darling husband.  Happy Birthday and may God bless you with as many more as you desire to have.


But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. [1 Corinthians 2:9/KJV]

I'm Living When I'm Giving

Boy! the devil must have really hated for me to write this blog, because I've been trying to write it for at least two weeks, but it seems like every time I tried, something would come up and delay the process - uh-oh the phone is ringing!!!  It is 5:30AM in the morning, but I have to answer it because it's the hubby, and, after-all, it is Thanksgiving Day, and I am truly thankful for him.

I come to life when I can give my time, money, talent, skills and gifts in ministry.  I am a people person and love being able to add to peoples lives by helping and/or encouraging all those that I come in contact with.  I can be doing something as simple as talking with a stranger at the bus stop or something more important like praying with and for incarcerated youth.  It all makes me feel alive. When I'm not doing anything for a long period of time, I feel like I'm not being productive.  I begin to feel dead inside, because my spirit thrives off of being a blessing to others.

To me Thanksgiving Day is a reminder to be thankful all year round.  And, I don't interpret it as being thankful for what I can get, but [literally] for what I can give.  It is called THANKSGIVING not thanksgetting!

I am so thankful that I can give Godly advice to others; share wisdom with my daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren; give my love to friends; take food to the homeless; be involved in ministries that reflect the Word of God; put decent used clothes in the recycle containers for others; love on my neighbors with kind words, a smile or an unexpected gift; share this life with my husband; and, most of all, give God the glory.  What a blessing that I have all these things that I can give, because I'm living when I'm giving.

Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. [Philippians 1:3/NLT]

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people.  Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. [1 Timothy 2:1/NLT]

Delay Can Determine a Better Decision

Based on the title I instantly think about the times my husband and I were traveling and wanted to get into the hotel early.  On two occasions the hotels couldn't let us in until 3PM which is the standard time, but we wanted to get in right away.  Turned down by our first choice, each time, we found a better deal just across the road.  The most important time that delay determined a better decision was when we missed being part of a major car pile up on the highway.  You see, when we traveled we would often make quick over night stops to get some sleep, and we would be up and out first thing in the morning, but, thank God, not this particular morning.  We decided to take it slow and spend some quality time with each other.  We actually drove up on the wreckage, in Durham, North Carolina, just after it had happened.  God was truly looking out for us that day!

How many times are we impatient - waiting in traffic; waiting at the doctors office; waiting for someone slower than we are [children, someone physically challenged]; waiting on God?  How many times after the fact were we glad that someone or something forced us to wait, especially when it comes to God making us wait.  God knows what is best for us at all times. He will allow one door to close so that another one, a better one can open.

How about the 9/11 terrorist tragedy that took place in New York City.  Who can ever forget the horrors of that terrible time, but remember the many stories of the people who were saved by never getting to work because something delayed their arrival.  Sometimes delay can determine a better decision that can lead to life or death.

Delay teaches us to have patience, and that quick, fast and in a hurry isn't always the answer.

Our blessings may be delayed, but they are not denied.  We make plans, but we have to give God time because, after all, He makes the final decisions.

Psalm 37:7-9

Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; Do not fret, it leads only to evildoing. For evildoers will be cut off, But those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land.

Weary, Weak, Wounded & Worn

Weary: tired, exhausted

Weak: lacking strength, feeble, fragile, defenseless, easily influenced, faint

Wounded: injury, hurt from cut, stab, etc.

Worn: valueless or useless, exhausted

Life does all of the above to us.  And, once life finishes wearing us out, the devil comes along to take advantage of the situation.

When we are weary because of being tired and totally exhausted we can hardly think right, and Satan loves to manipulate our minds.  That is where he starts - in the mind.  He plants a thought.  This is so easy for him to do because we're exhausted from our jobs, children, spouses, cares and woes and/or just striving to be a real Christian.  Being a Christian is a blessing, but it ain't always easy.  It's rough taking stuff from the world (all the time) and running out of cheeks, but GOD.  Isaiah 40:31 But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.  [ESV]

We're weak because we have given all we have to give and then some, but everybody just keeps on taking.  Our defenses are down and we become easy prey because we didn't pray to be restored or we prayed, but we didn't have faith.  Our faith has waned because patience has pushed our endurance to the test (no test, no testimony).  Nehemiah 8:10 Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

There is nothing more deceitful than someone smiling in your face and all the while stabbing you in the back. You know the song: "They smile in your face; all the time they want to take your place the back stabbers." Everybody that's with you ain't for you.  When we are wounded in the heart because (not the world) but another brother or sister-in-Christ, (not a stranger) but a close loved one has, without compassion or consideration, stepped all over it; we can't go to a doctor to get it fixed, but we can turn to the Great Physician.  Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our guilt and iniquities; the chastisement [needful to obtain] peace and well-being for us was upon Him, and with the stripes [that wounded] Him we are healed and mad whole. [Amplified]

Wow, so worn down by life until we feel useless and of no value.  The most depressing, self degrading thoughts come from thinking we have no more value in this life.  Nobody cares about me; I don't really count in the scheme of things; they don't take me serious, heck, they don't even see me - I'm invisible; they don't see my tears; they don't feel my pain; they don't hear me screaming; yet, I'm doing all of this right in front of them, but it's like we are in two different worlds - worlds apart.  I'm begging, out loud, for help, but my cries are falling on deaf ears.  I'm baring my soul and all they can do is console me with the same old, typical stuff. LORD, help us in our understanding!   Psalm 139:13-16 For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.


1 Peter 5:10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

Romans 12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

We're going to be alright because God's in charge and He has it all under control.  "It's Already Alright!"

Marriage, God's Way

My wife and I have been married a long time, and just like other marriages, we have had our ups and downs. But, by the grace of God; and shear will and determination, we have held onto our love for each other.   As friends first, we decided long ago that we wanted to go down life's road together.   It appears that marriages that do survive are built from being friends first.  The statistics are alarming; about 40% of marriages end in divorce, and this statistic is as prevalent among Christians as it is in secular society.   Now there are a lot of reasons for this; financial, infidelity, unpreparedness, expectations, etc.  All of these are long term responsibilities.  When we first see a person it is the physical attraction that captures our attention.   And, when we first get together with another person we are like a kid with a new toy.   Once the newness wears off we lose interest.   Again, we are like a kid with a pet.  We want all of the fun parts and none of the parts that need us to invest time and work to make good things happen and last.  When the going gets tough, we fall out.  We're looking at marriage based on the "hot" beginning and not the reality of a lifetime of work, of nurturing, of feeding it.   Now with all of the distractions, the temptations, the anti-marriage enticements that exist in society, it is difficult to stand strong in the commitment that was made, but a commitment was made to each other, and this covenant was made before God! [By the way, did you know that the only relationships that represent a covenant is our relationship with God, and our relationship in a holy marriage sanctioned by God; also God created marriage to show that two people from different walks of life could live together in harmony!] When a man and woman get married, they have become a union of one.

Matthew 19:4-6
"Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh' ? So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

Now, let's look at two of the main reasons for marital strife, stress and divorce - money and infidelity (adultery/cheating). [By the way, did you know that, and I'm paraphrasing, the Bible says that when you look with lust at another human being that you have already committed adultery? Money is not the root of all evil. It is the love of money that is evil. It is not a sin to have it, it is what one does with it that counts.]

Hebrews 13:4, 5
Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.   Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

The bottom line is this, if we want to have a successful, happy, joyous marriage, let God be in charge and in control of our marriages, and all other areas of our lives.   Read His Word daily in order to know the dos and the don'ts, and to stay on the right track.

Ephesians 5:22, 25
"Wives, be subject (be submissive and adapt yourselves) to your own husbands as [a service] to the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her," (Amplified)


“A man doesn’t own his marriage; he is only the steward of his wife’s love.” ~ Edwin Louis Cole (Ed Cole)

Depression, An Old Trick of the Enemy!

The enemy (devil, Satan) wants our minds, and he doesn't care how he gets it.

Depression, much like the rest of it's family - fear and chaos, can be debilitating and paralyzing.  The enemy is very clever about manipulating our emotions; getting us to focus on the things that will make us depressed and keep us from progressing forward in our lives, especially in the direction of spiritual wisdom and freedom.  My husband has a saying that I believe holds true - "Once you get a man's mind, you don't have to worry about his actions."  Depression will weigh us down.  It will zap our energy and/or strength.  Depression is prevalent right now in the world and Christians are not exempt from this attack.  As a matter of  fact, we are attacked more and worse than any others because we know the truth and are a threat to the enemy because he doesn't want us telling others what we know.  Well get ready Satan because I'm about to unleash a can of Christian whoop out on you!  Let me tell you what I know!  Let me tell you what I know from personal experience, preaching, and teaching.  When you become depressed it will usually be on the same day; at the same time, and about the same thing and, most likely, you are alone.  If you can, don't let the enemy find you at that place any more.  Change your location by going out for a walk at that time, make a phone call, visit someone, etc.  If you can't get out, praise your way out (read the Bible, talk with God, play gospel music, watch a Christian program, or maybe you just need to laugh - watch something funny).  The enemy is not omnipresent like our Lord.  When you change your location he can't find you to mess with you.  Besides, when you become active and/or busy your mind is already too occupied for the enemy to invade.  When you have a praise party it will send the enemy running out of your life and back to hell where he belongs.  Alleluia!  Be the victor and not the victim.  Remember, the enemy plants thoughts but they are fake and don't become real until you accept them, and give life and power to those fake thoughts from the enemy.

James 1:1-5 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.  But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.  If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.  (NKJV)

Forgiven But Not Forgotten

There was a very sweet, dear person in my life at one time.  She was a woman of God, my confidant, and more to me, but one of her greatest flaws was not being able to forget the wrong that others had done to her.  She and I would talk about how we forgive, but a certain name and/or situation would trigger a negative response and reveal the fact that we had not forgotten.  And, we would be off and running - talking about what they did to us five years ago, maybe more.  You see forgiveness is just on the surface while deep seeded roots of bitterness cling to our heart strings!  Just the other day I was having a conversation with someone else close to me and something was said to trigger a negative reaction, from this person, about people from the past.  Now, I believe that we truly do forgive, but unfortunately we do not forget.  It is interesting how as I get older the memory is not what it use to be (not that it was all that in the first place) but no matter what I forget, I can remember in great detail all the wrongs that were ever done to me.  Sometimes when one person remembers a wrong and shares it with you, you can get pulled into that negativity and only help fuel the fire higher.  We (Christians) like to say: "I can forgive, but I can't forget."  I heard Dr. Karry D. Wesley of Antioch Fellowship say: "God is waiting for us to forget what they did to us."  I think we need to practice language that supports the Word of God, and positive thinking rather than practicing language that supports our wrong, negative thinking.  So, how do we get out of this rut of stink'in think'in.  Let us practice, through the Word of God, forgetting the wrong done to us, and remembering what God says not to forget.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.  It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.  God uses it to prepare and equip His people to do every good work.

Psalm 141:3-5 Take control of what I say, O Lord, and guard my lips.  Don't let me drift toward evil or take part in acts of wickedness.  Don't let me share in the delicacies of those who do wrong. Let the godly strike me!  It will be a kindness!  If they correct me, it is soothing medicine.  Don't let me refuse it. 

Psalm 119:15-16 I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways.  I will delight in your decrees and not forget your Word.

James 1:26 If you claim to be religious but don't control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless.

MAY THE LORD ADD A BLESSING TO THE READERS, HEARERS, AND MORE IMPORTANTLY THE DOERS OF HIS PRECIOUS, MIGHTY, BLESSED WORD.  AMEN

Not Just Hanging In There !

 Probably, many a time that you have asked someone,  "How are you doing?" and they responded back by  saying,   "Oh, I'm hanging in there."  There's a friend of mine that when I ask him, "How are you doing?" his answer is always the same.  He says,  "I'm doing great, but I'm getting better."  Isn't that a terrific attitude?  What a positive thing to say!  But, does a positive response really matter?  When you ask someone: "How are you doing?"  You get any number of different responses like, "Oh,  alright I guess," or, "I'm so, so."  But a very popular response is, "I'm hanging in there."  Hanging in there?!  You're just hanging in there?!  Is that your assessment of how your life is going right now, just hanging in  there?  Now to me, that sounds like one step away from hanging on for dear life, or, maybe at the end of  your rope!  Hanging in there, like that cute little kitten, on the poster, barely hanging onto a tree branch with the slogan "Hang in There Baby."  Do you really want to spend the rest of your life just hanging in there?  So your mind set is that each day is really tough, but I think I  can make it.  I think I just might pull through another day. I'm hanging in there!  Is that what God has in mind  for mankind?  To struggle through each day and just hang in there?

 What about living life to the fullest?  That truly is God's desire for your life!  It's written all over the pages of  scripture.  But, somewhere along the way somebody came along and said that Christians aren't supposed  to be happy; they are suppose to suffer through their whole lives.  Somebody came along and said that Christians weren't supposed to have prosperity, but instead, be poor,  or just get by.  They came along and said that Christians shouldn't live victorious lives, but instead they  should be a doormat for Jesus and have everyone walk all over them.

 People have said a lot of those things, but are those things true?  No. Those things are not true and those  things are very illogical as well.  These people have not read the Word of God.  God is not illogical.

 Think about this for a moment.  If Christians are children of God, with the Creator of the heavens and earth  as their Father, then why should they be the saddest, poorest, and most defeated people on earth?  Wouldn't it make more sense that Christians should be the happiest and most victorious people on the      planet?

 The question is this: Is it God's will for you just to hang in there?  No, it is not, but remember, you have free  will to choose the course for your life.  You can choose "just to hang in there," or, you can choose to believe  what the Bible really teaches.

 That doesn't mean that you ignore the fact that things are not going well, and simply say, "Oh everything is  just great."  I'm not talking about living in a make believe world.  When things happen, it is not make believe,  it is very real.  But, what is your choice of thinking in those situations?  How do you react?  It is not what you go through, but how you go through it that counts.

 The next time things are not going well and someone asks you, "How are you doing?" why not reply, "A little  intense right now, but I am praying, expecting and anticipating a solution.  I am expecting for things to  change dynamically!"  There is a big difference in saying that as opposed to saying, "I'm hanging in there."  You may be facing trials and tribulations, but you can always say: "It is well with my soul."

 A huge key in life is that what comes out of your mouth came from you.  It came from your mind.  It is an  outward expression of what's going on inside your head and your heart.  The Bible says that as you think in your heart, that  is who you will be.  The Scriptures also say that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks!  Not only that, but once you say it, you hear it, and that also reinforces it into your mind and heart.  What  you choose to continually reinforce is what you will manifest into your life.

 So, if you really feel each day that you are just hanging in there, and that is how your life is going to proceed,  you will just keep hanging in there. But, if you want to change and live dynamically and successfully, start by  addressing your own thoughts.  Along with that, start adjusting what comes out of your mouth.   Refuse to  admit negatives and defeat, and instead speak positives and victory.  There are times when we are dealing with challenges. But why would we want to admit that the best that we can do now is just to “hang in there?”  God promised a lot more!  And, if we trust and have faith in God we know that we already have the victory on this side and the other side of Heaven.

Psalm 43:5 Amplified: "Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me?  Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the help of my [sad] countenance, and my God.

" It Is No Secret What God Can Do" by Stuart Hamblen

God awoke me this morning and this song was on my mind... Thank you Jesus!

It is no secret what God can do.
What He’s done for others, He’ll do for you.
With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you.
It is no secret what God can do.
The chimes of time ring out the news,
Another day is through.
Someone slipped and fell
Was that someone you?
You may have longed for added strength,
Your courage to renew.
Do not be disheartened,
For I have news for you.
It is no secret what God can do.
What He’s done for others, He’ll do for you.
With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you.
It is no secret what God can do.
There is no night for in His light
You never walk alone.
Always feel at home,
Wherever you may go.
There is no power can conquer you
While God is on your side.
Take Him at His promise,
Don’t run away and hide.
It is no secret what God can do.
What He’s done for others, He’ll do for you.
With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you.
It is no secret what God can do.

God Will Provide Your Financial Blessing!

We don't know where it's coming from, but we do know that God will provide for our needs.  If we stay prayed up; if we stay faithful to His Word, God will provide for all our needs.  God is true to His Word and cannot lie.  He loves His children and has proven this time and time again.  His track record is perfect! 

We, the children of the King, would never experience financial struggles if we listen to our heavenly Father.  We must learn to listen to God when He tells us when to go, where to go, and what to do when we get there.  We must realize when God is speaking to us Himself or through other people via television, radio, computer, telephone, in the church and those we live with no matter the age, gender, creed or color.  We must identify when God is giving a revelation for an invention.  When God says now is the time, we must step out on faith (Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen).  How do we think what God has promised us is going to come to pass if we don't do our part!  God is true to His Word, but like a good parent He won't do for us what we can do for ourselves.  Why would God make us financially stable if we are spending what monies we have the wrong way and/or on the wrong things?  We have to be good stewards over what we already have in order for God to bless us with more.  We have to give God His, take care of others, and manage our homes correctly.  This is good stewardship.

God has a plan and a purpose for us all.  When we learn to be obedient to the Lord and His Word the plan and purpose for our lives will begin to fall into place. We will not only be financially prosperous, but we will be prosperous in every area of our lives.  God wants the best for us, so we have to want the best for ourselves, and start doing what is best for others and ourselves. 

 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.  You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.  2 Corinthians 9:10-11 (NIV)

Letting Lack Linger in Our Lives

Lack lingers in our lives because of so many reasons (hesitation, procrastination, fear, doubt, etc.) but the one common thread is that we are the major cause of lack lingering in our lives.  We make bad choices, plans, and decisions because we don't consult God.  We delay progress because we don't want to do it just now.  We keep thinking we can put things off until tomorrow, but sometimes tomorrow never comes.  Sometimes tomorrow never comes because we keep making excuses not to deal with what we know is right to do.  Sometimes tomorrow never comes because we died before it came.  It is bad, and, yes, sad when anyone chooses to let lack linger in their life, but it is extra bad and sad when Christians allow lack to linger in their lives when we know that God does not want us lacking anything.  We need to use the gifts we have.  We need to exercise the power we've been given.  We need to rebuke the bad habit of letting lack linger in our lives, and we need to replace it with a good habit (i.e. prioritize and organize).  We must do what we can do right away, and make a list of future projects to be finished in a timely fashion.  We let people, unimportant issues, and useless habits stop our forward progress.  Lack is not an external issue, it is internal.  We can beat this lackadaisical, lackluster mind set if we would just do what God tells us!  Is this easier said than done, sure it is, but anything worth having is worth working for.  Besides, we know that any assignment that God gives us we can trust Him to see us through to the end.  Heck, we can trust and have faith in God to see us through to the very end!  Come on Saints, let's get lack off our backs and out of our lives.  Let's move to a higher level in life, in God.  Selah (pause, and calmly think of that).  Amen (so be it).

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience, but let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.  James 1:1-4 (KJV)

God's Love!

In the seventies Dionne Warwick sang: "What the World Needs Now, is Love, Sweet Love," music by Burt Bacharach.  Dionne thought it should be our national anthem.  We all need love, but we sometimes look for it in the wrong places.  We end up feeling more lonely than before the relationship began.  Maybe it is because we thought we were in love when we were actually in lust.  Maybe it is because we had no commitment.  I have been there.

I know that what the world needs now is God's love.  Since the first time I experienced God's incredible presence for myself, I never wanted to be without it.  I feel God's love when I read the Bible and spend time in prayer because God is love.  God's love is unconditional and forever (agape`).  It gives me security and purpose.  I have hope for the future and peace in this uncertain world. My hope is built on the promise Jesus made when He rose from the dead and ascended into Heaven.  He said He would come again in the same way He left, so all could see.  He said He was going to prepare a place for us and if He went to prepare a place for us, He will certainly come back to take us to be home with Him (John 14:1-4).  Don't think because it has been two thousand years since He said this that it won't happen.  God is taking His time because He desires for everyone to be saved.  The people during Noah's time never thought water would cover the earth, but it did.  In those days it had never rained before the flood.  Water only came up through the ground.  Rain was one of the results of man sinning.  Everybody lives in a time period when something doesn't exist, at first, and then it does (phones [land-lines, cell], microwaves, computers, etc.).  Once we experience God's love, it is actually too much for us to hold on to selfishly.  We have to find ways to share it.  That is what Jesus did.  God wants us to love Him and love each other, and, yes, that even includes our enemies.  In fact, in His Word (the Bible) God commands us to love.  That is what the world needs now. We need to experience God's love every day.  It's the only way out of hopelessness, despair and depression.

If you are reading this truth for the first time, I am praying for you.  You can experience God's love by surrendering your heart to Him.  I waited way too many years before I prayed a simple prayer to invite Jesus into my heart, to live with me and help me live for Him.  But when I did, I felt loved like never before.  I want you to experience that love too.  If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9)  Just pray the following:  "Dear Jesus, I invite to come into my life and be my Lord and Savior.  I believe that You died and rose again so that I would be saved from sin.  Thank you for my salvation in Jesus' name, amen."  If you prayed this prayer for the first time, would you let me know by commenting on this blog.  If you do not have a Bible I want to make sure you get one.   God be with you.

God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16 NIV)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, open the eyes and hearts of people today so they can find truth and meaning to life in Your love in Jesus' name.  Amen.

I'm Not God, Nor Am I A Punching Bag

I am a spiritual being, housed in a body with a soul.  I am a Christian.  Therefore, I strive to be a Christian by practicing Christianity each and every day, second after second; minute after minute; hour after hour; week after week; month after month; year after year; 365 days, 24/7.  And yet, I'm still not perfect, because (guess what) I'm not God.  Somewhere, in the recessess of this fleshy body lurks the old man of yesterday, and if you keep stepping to me in a negative way he just might show himself, unfortunately.  I hate when this happens, because as a representative of Jesus Christ I am to represent Him in a positive light.  I can't let your action predict my reaction, but sometimes I do because I've taken one hundred hits, and when number 101 came I decided to hit back.  Hopefully, I hit you with the truth in love.  Even a punching bag over the years of usage starts to show its wear and tear.  Yes, I'm a Christian, but if you cut me do I not bleed?  Words cut deeper and cause greater damage than any knife on Earth.  When a knife cuts you you can see the cut and doctors can repair the damaged area, but when words cut you they destroy what you can't see,and the process of healing is necessary and long in order to restore a real and healthy relationship with each other.

Do you not see my struggle, do you not feel my pain?!  You're not in front of a mirror so stop looking at self.  Why are you looking at me like I'm crazy for being angry?  God never said we couldn't get angry.  He said, and I paraphrase, do not anger to sin.

Stop expecting me to do the impossible and be nice all the time. Stop thinking you can do anything to me and I'm going to keep turning the other cheek!  I can be nice 9 times out of 10, but not ten times out of ten because I'm not God.  Okay, its been a hard day, your frustrated, and you need to vent and I just happen to be available.  I can relate to that, but, just maybe I had a hard day too.  I'm a Christian not a punching bag.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.

Proverbs 10:12 Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.

"Let us not love in word and talk, but in truth and deed."

God's Got Your Back!

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Trust and Thank God, Knowing It's Already Done!

Sometimes we like to complain to God about how we don’t see anything manifesting, but many times we’re the hindrance to our own deliverance and blessings.  Our doubt and unbelief can cause God’s promises for us to be hindered and/or delayed.  Why?  Because there is unbelief.  God doesn’t operate with a person’s unbelief, but rather their belief in His ability to do specifically what He said He would do.

I want to let you know that just because you can’t see physically what’s happening in the spiritual realm doesn’t mean nothing is happening.  This is where our continuous faith in the Lord takes place and is tested.  Faith is the substance of things hope for and the evidence of things NOT SEEN.  This scripture tells us that faith requires us to believe in what we do not see.  This scripture also, in my opinion, lets us know that we can’t make a judgement call based upon what our eyes do or do not see;  though we may not see what’s happening physically right away, spiritually (by faith) it’s already done and it’s just awaiting for its appointed time by the Lord to happen physically.  However, you become a hindrance to yourself when you start to doubt and second guess what God has told you.

In many of the scriptures given in the Bible, when a person confronted Jesus with his or her problem or need, notice that Jesus says, “thy faith has made thee whole”, “according to thy faith you are healed”.  On the other side of this, we also see that Jesus won’t move or perform miracles when doubt and unbelief are dwelling within a person.  Furthermore, when God tells you, “your healed” “your delivered” “your saved”; you must believe and receive that at that very moment it is done.  You may say, “it doesn’t feel like it was done”, but know that our feelings are deceiving.  If it was okay to go based upon how we felt, the Bible wouldn’t urge us to crucify our flesh daily.  There are times when I don’t feel saved, but I know it’s the devil at work.  There are times when I don’t feel like reading the Bible, but I read it because that’s the only way to know the Word of God which is to know God.  Don’t go based on how you feel, go based upon who made the promise.  We all fall short of the glory of God.   Friends and family may not always fulfill their promises, but the Word of the Lord never comes back to Him void and unaccomplished.

So today I encourage you, as I encourage myself also, to be obedient to God.  Whatever God said to you, praise God for it already being done because it is indeed done (praise Him in advance).  Know that the enemy will play with what you can’t see being manifested; this is why you must read the Word of God.  For you must “replenish” and increase your faith, and this only comes by reading and hearing the Word of God.  When the enemy comes and feeds you doubt, rebuke that spirit and rebuke him in Jesus name, and praise God all the more for the blessing He’s bringing your way.  Continue to bless the Lord, even when you think nothing is happening –when it really is.  Stand on the spoken Word of God and on His promises and rest in Him knowing that unlike us, when God makes a promise, you can rest assure knowing it’s already done.

The Word keeps our spirit fed so we will have the strength we need to fight a good fight, keep the faith, and finish the race.  The Word helps us to understand better, and more and more as the days go by, Who God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit are and what relationship we should have with them.

When we sit down in a chair we trust it to hold us up.  Why can't we trust God, the Creator, Who created the being that made that chair!
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Heb 11:1 (NIV)

The Holy Spirit!

The Holy Spirit, part of the Trinity, is an active force at work in the lives of Christian believers.  The Holy Spirit does his work by making Christ present among us, and using us as a vehicle to do His work here on Earth.  He provides and guides us through scripture to be Christ-like in our thinking and actions; in our love and compassion for others; in our confidence in knowing that Jesus not only saved us but provided another to carry us through whatever happens.  The Holy Spirit gives us joy, peace and the knowledge that we are never alone. 

Whenever the Holy Spirit is at work, so is self-surrender (humility) and freedom.  When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, our flesh is under control and we can be used by God to do His will.  The Holy Spirit is our guide, not only to show us the way, but to go with us by providing gifts and influences to do God's work and will.

" He shall teach all truth, and keep back nothing profitable, for he will show things to come." John 16:15 (NIV). 

To be led into a truth is more than to know it; it is not only to have the notion of it in our heads, but to relish and savour the power of it in our hearts.

All the gifts and graces of the Spirit are to glorify Christ.  It behooves all of us to ask, whether the Holy Spirit has begun a good work in our hearts?  Without clear understanding of our guilt and danger we never can understand the value of Christ's salvation; but when we are brought to know ourselves truthfully, we begin to see greater the value of the Redeemer.

Thank you Holy Spirit!

 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.  When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment John 16:7-8 (NIV)

Calling All Christian Soldiers!

This is a shout out to all my fellow Christian soldiers in the army of God.  Don't get caught sleeping in this season.  Just listen (with spiritual ears) to what is being said, and see (with spiritual eyes) what is going on around you in this world today.  You know what I hear and see?  I hear and see the world embracing what is wrong and resisting what is right.  Satan is a busy boy, he never gets tired of doing His job.  [John 10:10 New International Version (NIV) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.]  The devil has all sorts of people, from all walks of life, believing that they have to accept what is wrong by being polite and supportive of things that God disapproves of.  We are in this world, but not of it.  We cannot afford to be tricked by the wiles of the enemy.  We must remember to stand on the Word of God, the only truth that exists.  If Jesus said it, that settles it!  How any body feels or thinks (you know - in my opinion) doesn't amount to a hill of beans.  There are three sides to every conversation - yours, mine, and the truth.  You can be the President in the White House, or a homeless man in the out house, it doesn't matter who is talking, because right is right and wrong is wrong.  There are no shades of grey when it comes to the Word of God.  We must stand for something (righteousness) or we'll fall for anything.  And, getting back to John 10:10, I love this scripture.  It starts out exposing the enemy's diabolical agenda, but it leaves us with the hope of a better outcome through living for our Lord and Savior.  Remember to stay focused.  We must keep our minds on things above and not below.  We must sease every opportunity that we can to offer Jesus to a dying world.  We are called to be disciples first and most of all.  Brothers and sisters-in-Christ, put on the whole armour of God, grab your Sword and go forth in the battle in Jesus name.

And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Mark 8:36 (NLT)

" It's A Blessing To Be Alive" by Debra Snipes

It's a blessing to be alive, it's a blessing to be alive.
When I think about all the things, that the Lord is
doing for me, I count it as a blessing to be alive. (repeat)

I could have been sleeping in my grave a long time
ago, but Jesus he intervene for me to stay a while
longer.

But ohh when I think about all the things that the Lord
is doing for me, I count it as a blessing to be alive.

Now you may think that your not blessed at all, but
just remember Jesus hung there on the cross.

But ohh when I think about all the things that the Lord
is doing for me, I count it as a blessing to be alive.

I count it as a blessing to be alive.
I count it as a blessing to be alive.

The song says it all!

Messages from God

I heard this story told on several occasions and in different versions, but it basically goes like this - "A man was drowning in a body of water far from land so he prayed for God to help him and not let him drown.  A boat pulled up beside him and a person on-board offered the drowning man a hand, but he refused and stated: "God will rescue me."  Next, a helicopter hovered over head, a ladder was let down and a person over a bullhorn said: "climb the ladder to safety, but the man exclaimed: "I prayed for God to rescue me, so I will wait for Him."  The man began to lose patience, hope, his strength, and his breath.  He was going under the water and coming back up, and with his last breath he asked God why He had not helped him?  God replied: "I tried to help you twice.  I sent a fisherman, and a helicopter pilot to rescue you, but you refused their help."  How may times does God talk to us through family, friends, strangers, children, television, music, writings, tough times, His Word, and a host of other ways, but we miss His voice and our blessings (help) because it didn't come the way we expected it!  We have to pray and ask God to increase our understanding in hearing His voice.  We must practice waiting and listening to hear from Him.  These are crucial times and we can't afford to miss what God is saying.  Speak Lord, speak to me, I'm listening!

Jeremiah 7:23-24 (NIV)

...but I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in obedience to all I command you, that it may go well with you.  But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward and not forward.

BUT GOD!

Today's blog was inspired by Rev. Gregory Dickow, who preached: "But God."  It is a good practice to add "but God" to the end of negative statements.  This way we cancel out the negative with good, because God is good.  Also, saying "but God" reminds us that no matter what, God is still in charge and in control. District attornies and a wife were murdered by a disgruntled Justice of the Peace in Kaufman, Texas, but God.  There was an intentional bombing at the Boston Marathon, but God.  The president of the United States, and others received posionous letters, but God.  There was a devastating explosion at a fertilizler plant in West Texas, but God.  And, let's not talk about the numerous unheard of atroscities that are going on around the world; and let's not forget our own personal struggles, BUT GOD!

No matter what we see and/or hear happen, God is still on the throne.  He sits high and looks low.  He doesn't look down on us, He looks down upon us, because He is interested in us and concerned for us. 

Self-Gratification vs. God's Glorification!

What and who inspires us to do the right or wrong thing (hanging with certain people, watching television, over indulging with food or drink)?    We lose focus when we allow worldly things to contaminate our thinking (minds).  We must determine to, no matter what, do what is right.  We know how to gratify ourselves only too well.  In fact, we practice self-gratification so much and so well until we hardly have time to do anything for any body else, if at all.  First of all, in order to do things to God's glorification, we need new minds, hearts, and spirits (keep our minds on things above and not below, read the Word).  When we do things to glorify God we bless others and ourselves.  What a beautiful thing; it's a win, win situation, and all to the glory of God.  We must seek inspiration from on-high, rebuke contamination, and walk with Holy Spirit determination, and all to God's glorification!

What causes fights and quarrels among you?  Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?  You desire but do not have, so you kill.  You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight.  You do not have because you do not ask God.  When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.  You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God?  Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. James 4:1-4 (NIV)

DON'T MISS YOUR BLESSING!

We ask God to bless us, but when the blessing comes we miss it because of one or more of the following things:

     1) We let the weather dictate whether or not we are going to be in attendance.

     2) FEAR (False Evidence Appearing Real) keeps us from striving towards the goal.

     3) Being too lazy to make and take the extra effort to get to the next stage in life.

     4) God will always help us, but we shouldn't expect Him to do for us what we can do for ourselves.

     5) We often try to wait for a perfect moment, place, person and/or time?  We can't make that happen.  Only God knows how to create the perfect situation.

     6) When God speaks, we need to listen (when He says be quiet and be still, we need to do it; and when He says move quickly, and speak up with Christian boldness, we need to do it!)

     7) We need to stop thinking that we can do what we want when we get ready.  God sometimes blesses us in a moment's notice.  We have to be ready to act on it.  We have to come out of our comfort zone most of the time in order to receive our blessings.  God does this to show us how much more we are capable of doing if we are willing.  Also, He is testing us to see if we are willing to sacrifice something of ours (time, money, material things) in order to receive a blessing from Him.  What God gives us will always be greater than our sacrifice.

Lord, help me to stop being me (working out of my flesh) because when I'm being me (only looking at the natural), I'm blind to what You would have me to see.

The Lord answered, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time?  It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns.  Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.  But suppose the servant says to himself, ‘My master is taking a long time in coming,’ and he then begins to beat the other servants, both men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk.  The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers.  “The servant who knows the master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows.  But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:42-48 (NIV)

What is Your Testimony!

On yesterday. I watched as my wife gave her testimony to a group of believers; a strong group of Christians. I was amazed at her poise and how well she spoke as she recounted the facts of her life, and the story of just how much God has done to turn things around for her.  Now since we have been together for 31 years alot of her testimony included me in every possible way, especially the bad and negative things we use to do before God stepped into our lives.  The group listened intensely, some crying.  But the tears were tears of joy, because they knew just how good God has been to us and also just how good He has been to them in their own lives.  After the testimonial, members were coming up to talk to each of us about what they heard or just to know more.  Alcohol, drugs and wrong living is affecting some of their family members and they wanted to know what to do. My wife had told them in her talk that there was no 12-step program, just one step, Jesus!

You see, your testimony isn't about you.  As a Christian, you should be able to proudly stand up and tell the truth about who you were and who you are now as a new creature in Christ.  The testimony you give will have an impact on someone else and you just may be the instrument God is using for that person's turn-around.

“Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.”  Mark 5:19b(NIV)


PS: I am so Godly proud of my wife. TGBTG !

What Gift Has God Given You?

We have all been given different talents, gifts and abilities.  God works in different ways through each of us, and we all serve Him faithfully as we use our gifts to glorify Him.  We should invest the gifts that God has blessed us with wisely.  We should use our gifts and abilities to honor God and to bless, encourage and strengthen others in love (without love, all our gifts are nothing!).  We should not neglect our gifts, but instead develop them, “stir them up”, “fan them into flames”… so that they get even better, to the edification of the church and to the glory of God.

So go out and let the world know what God has blessed you with and share it with all that come across your path. TGBTG !

1 Corinthians 12:4-6
“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.” (ESV)

Lord, I need more Wisdom !

I don't know about you, but I am tired of making unwise decisions.  I am sure you are too.  When you make unwise decisions you will suffer consequences that may take years to overcome.  But don't be discouraged, just focus on the future.  We cannot change the decisions we  have made in the past, but we can strive to make wise decisions for the future.  Wisdom is what we need.  According to James 1:5, if you lack wisdom, you should ask God for it.  Just make sure that you are not pursuing something outside of God's will for your life.  If you ask God, and allow Him to make His answers clear to you, then you will be able to make wise decisions.  Many times we don't want to accept the answer that God is trying to give us.  God is all knowing, and He knows the future.  He knows the road ahead and what is on the other side of the mountain.  Just trust Him for wisdom and knowledge and you will be satisfied.

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
(James 1:5)

Joy !

"I’ve got that joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart..."   True joy can only be attained as part of the fruit of the spirit; it is the thing that we have when we are walking with Holy Spirit.  It is the comfort and peace that only God can give us, that no man can take away.  Life has it's daily struggles and many disappointing moments.  It can make us weary and try to steal  our joy, leaving us bitter and numb if we let it.  But we have to focus on the good things, and know that no matter how many struggles we have that the good out-weigh the bad.  As Christians we must know that happiness comes and goes because it is external and controlled by what happens around us.  Joy is a gift from God that resides inside of us.  Even in the hardest and sadest of times we can count on the fact (truth) that "the joy of the Lord is our strength."

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13

Rest in the Lord

Hectic, busy and consuming are words we use to describe our daily schedules of life.  Our jobs and the activities of our children can keep us running on empty.  Worry, anxiety, and stress are some of the things we go through everyday.  ("Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." Phil. 4:6)  God and His Holy Word though calls the Christian to act differently. We are to have peace and to rest in the promises of God.

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. "Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. "For My yoke is easy, and My load is light."   Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

Forgive Me Lord, For I Have Sinned

Here it is Good Friday, the day our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was hung on the cross on Calvary or Golgotha ( place of a skull).  The greatest act of unselfishness ever performed, was performed so that we could have a return trip to our heavenly Father.  You see, no man could take Jesus' life.  He voluntarily laid it down because of His love, unconditional love for you and me.  It truly is a "good" Friday!

Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.  John 15:13 (AKJV)

Being Christ-like

I am a Christian,

but that doesn’t mean I can’t stumble;

but ninety-nine percent of the time

my spirit should remain humble.

I am a Christian,

can you see that in me;

or is it hard to find,

because I don’t have the right mind;

and I’m not truly free.

I am a Christian,

is that something I just say;

or do I put it on display?

I am a Christian,

I must carry my own cross;

and follow Jesus,

I know what I have to do;

and I know He is my boss.

I’m not afraid to pay the cost.

I am a Christian,

is there love in my heart;

am I being a disciple,

if not, I need to start.

I am a Christian,

so you should have heard;

I’m standing on the Word.

I am a Christian,

and I know I’ve been changed;

my mind and life have been Godly rearranged.

I am a Christian,

so my lifestyle should not be a suspense;

in my living for God,

there should be an abundance of evidence.

I am a Christian,

is the song I should always sing;

I am a Christian,

hallelujah to the King!

                                                                                               

                                                                  To God Be the Glory,

                                                                                        Written by: Gail Miller (03/18/13)

                                                                                                           

Taking it to Another Level !

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. Ephesians 3:20 (NKJ).

"The power that works in us."  Paul had the revelation that if we followed His Word and were obedient to Him, God would provide all that we needed and that included power.  Power to do things that man could not understand nor explain.  Most of the time we don't understand the awesomeness of God's mighty power as it pertains to our lives, and even if we are spiritual and living for God, we question how he's going to do it.
But my brothers and sisters, claim His power in the Name of Jesus for yourself; speak it over your life and your families' lives.  Do not doubt that through Him we have the power to change things for the better.   He can do anything, and if we allow Him to guide and instruct, we can do anything in His name. 

Charity is an Act of Love

Charity is an act of love, which allows us to do something that is the total opposite of our basic and selfish natures. We did not progress or get to where we are in life without the assistance of others. At very young ages, we display selfish tendencies and attitudes. As children, we show a "that's mine mentality " when it comes to objects such as balls, toys, and candy. Parents and teachers are constantly trying to instruct us in the principle of sharing; however, we struggle with this and may even have tantrums, if someone takes or tries to take something from us. Again, we did not get here on our own. Parents, siblings, teachers and others have had an impact on the lives that we now live. The goals we have been able to reach have more authors than just us alone. Family members, friends and coaches have all imparted something into the make up of our lives. Once we come to this realization and allow our egos to deflate, we then have the opportunity to have our hearts softened and think about others, who are in need. We should challenge ourselves at every opportunity, for it is right to care about others and to do whatever we can for one another. Looking back on the roads that we've traveled throughout our lives should bring to our memories many, many people that were a part of the successes and failures we have experienced. Let's be thankful about these memories and be willing to do the same for others.

Proverbs 11:24-25
One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

I Ain't Ashame to Claim His Name, JESUS!

When I wake up in the morning I say: "good morning Jesus, here we go again."  I thank Him for being there for me 24/7 (all the time).  He said, in His Word, that: "He would never leave me nor foresake me." And He is true to His Word.  I'm so glad I know Jesus for myself, and have a real and right relationship with Him, because I need Him all the time; especially when times are hard.  I love crossing paths with other believers who are not ashame to claim His name.  There was my brother-in-Christ on the morning train who was wearing that marvelous hat that exclaimed his love for God, the Son, and Holy Spirit.  There was no doubt that he was a true believer, not because of the hat, but his face and spirit revealed that Christ lived inside him.  I just had to talk about the goodness of the Lord with him.  It was an opportunity to praise Jesus in public.  This made my soul glad, and my spirit leapt for joy!  How about my sister-in-Christ who exclaims the name of Jesus, His love, and salvation to a dying world on one of the corners of the West End every day.  One day I just had to encourage her, and show solidarity with her by hugging her, calling her my sister, and telling her God bless you for doing the Lord's work.  I welcome any and all opportunities to claim His name; Jesus!  There are people in other countries who risk their lives to find a hiding place to congregate so they can praise God; so why would I, a Christian, not take advantage of the fact that I can freely praise my Lord and Savoir!  We must claim His name from the highest places to the lowest.  We must claim His name from the four corners of the earth (north, south, east, and west.  We must be bold and claim His name (with Godly direction and Christ-like demeanor) on our jobs, in our schools, in the halls of justice, at the beauty salon, in the barber shop, in the super market, in the streets, in our homes, and, yes, even in our churches.

DON'T BE ASHAME TO CLAIM THE NAME OF JESUS!!!

If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.  Luke 9:26 (NIV)

Don't Judge Me !

People are all different which is good because variety is the spice of life.  We have a right to have a difference of opinion, and nobody has to be right or wrong.  We just agree to disagree.

Don't look at a person and think you know them.  We are all like onions.  We have a lot of  layers to peel away, and under each one is a different and unique experience.

How can anyone decide why a person acts a certain way when they haven't walked in their shoes.

We want what others have, but are we willing to sacrifice what they did to get it?

Don't judge me because I have to enforce the rules on my job.  The working me is just one part of a multi-faceted, very complex individual.

How can you just look at me and decide you hate me?  To know me is to love me!

"Don't speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters.  If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God's law.  But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you.  God alone, who gave the law, is the Judge.  He alone has the power to save or to destroy.  So what right do you have to judge your neighbor?" (James 4:11-12/NLT)

The Road Travelled is Difficult (BUT THE DESTINATION IS WELL WORTH IT!)

God has predestined a journey for each of us.  The journey will not always be easy, but God did not promise us easy; He promised us that He would never leave us.  There will be bumps in the road; there will be unforeseen (by us, NOT God) obstacles, hinderances, storms, and, yes, loss of material things, a job, or even more importantly a loved one.  We will have to strive hard to make it past all these trials and tribulations, but the One Who predestined this road trip for us will see us through, if we let Him.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.  Jeremiah 29:11(NIV)

Now let's look at the other side of life's difficult journey if we allow the Lord to rule, rest and abide in our lives.  The Lord will take care, giving us a peace and a joy that no man can take away.  He will be our everything here on earth and as it says in the most familiar passage and the basis of Christianity:  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV)

At the end of life's travel, if we believe , we get to go home and be with the Father.  Hallelujah!

What a promise; what a destination!

Be A Thermostat !

Can you change the climate of a room when you walk into it?  Is there a difference in the atmosphere, a better atmosphere after you have arrived?  If you have answered these questions yes, then you are a  human thermostat.  This is what Jesus wants us to be.  A climate or environment filled with tension, anger and strife needs someone who can come in and change the state of that environment.  Many times in families, there is someone that affects that change out of reponsibility, a father for  respect, a mother for love, a "big mama", but a Christian should be able to walk into any situation and affect such change.  On a job, it may be a boss, but a Christian has been taught by Jesus in His "Sermon on the Mount", how to be a human thermostat.

The eight beatitudes were taught by Jesus to provide the saved believer the correct approach to achieve "supreme happiness" (beatitude).  This approach or attitude should be one of humbleness, meekness, love, and self-sacrifice.  If you approach life in this manner, then you will be blessed ( totally satisfied).  This is a selfless approach that turns outwards towards others and gives us the ability to be a thermostat to affect change by leading by example.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are they who mourn,
for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek,
for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they shall be satisfied.

Blessed are the merciful,
for they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure of heart,
for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called children of God.

Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."   Matt 5: 3-10

A Prayer of Faith ( Read aloud everyday !)

Father, in Jesus’ name I thank you for Your loving kindness toward me and for Your Word which says in John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”  I believe that Jesus has been raised from the dead and that He is now sitting at the right hand of God.  I thank You, Lord, that I have been set free from the powers of darkness and translated into the kingdom of Your Son.  I am forgiven of all sin.  My past is behind me.  I am born again.  I am a new person.  I am set free from sin and from the effects of sin.  I am cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ.  Lord, because You have forgiven me I forgive those who have trespassed against me, and from now on I’ll bless those that curse me and pray for those that would treat me unfairly.

Heavenly Father, I ask that You fill me up with the knowledge of Your Will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.  I open up my heart to You, Lord, that I may know the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven.  Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.  The Word of God is truth and I proclaim that Your truth sets me free.  Lord, I accept your Word for instruction, doctrine, and correction in order that I may be perfected, and prepared for every good work.

Jesus, You are my Shepherd.  I thank You that You lead me beside still waters and that You make me lay down in green pastures.  In Your presence Lord is fullness of joy and at Thy right hand are pleasures for evermore.  I believe Your Word which says in Isaiah 48:17 that You’ll teach me to prosper in all that I do and that You’ll lead me in the way that I should go.

In the name of Jesus I take authority over the evil one that would try to kill, steal, and destroy my life.  Luke 10:10 says that I have authority over all the power of the enemy, and I demand that Satan take his hands off my life and my finances.  I bind you evil spirits and I break your power and I command you to leave my right now in Jesus’ name.  I resist the devil and he flees!

Father, in the name of Jesus, I ask that You lead me out of all temptation and deliver me from all evil.  I thank You Lord that You are my refuge and that You have given Your angels charge over me to deliver me in time of trouble.  I praise Your name Lord, and thank You for the riches of Your grace.  Blessed be the Name of Jesus.  Amen.

God is Always There !

Times are rough; the economy is failing, people who were making a great living not so long ago are unemployed and when they go seeking jobs, they hear "you're over-qualified for this or that position."  These same folks find themselves at the food bank, a place where they may have donated not so long ago.  Millions of foreclosures, lots of credit card debt and the bills keep on rolling in.  We lived beyond our means and were caught up in a freestyle system, a system designed for us to fail, not prosper.  I know, because I made the same mistakes.

                 So who do you depend on when these things start weighing down on you. You can only ask family and friends for so much help, because they have their own lives to contend with. Do you give up and throw in the towel. There has been a lot of that. Suicide and murders are at an all time high. Everyday, we hear several tragic stories of family ruin.  We respond with, "what is going on; what is happening; I don't understand; he seemed like a gentle person; they seem to be so happy?"  Murder, suicide and family ruin is at an all time high because we try to appear to be what we are not.  

                We need a power higher than Man to guide, direct, and protect us. God is always there to provide what you need. He can do what people cannot do for you! So trust in God; know that he is there for you in the darkest of times, even when it seems like there is no hope, no way out.

                "Trust in Him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before Him: God is a refuge for us" (Psalms 62:8)