"And Moses said to the people, 'Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again.' The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent." Ex. 14:13-14 (ESV)
We sometimes say that life is a struggle, or that we have to fight for what we want in this life. And you know what, I will be the first to say that I struggled and fought to accomplish my goals! But after a while, I discovered that I was tired!
I believe that if we are not in touch with our Father, we lose sight of what we should be fighting and struggling for. In fact, I would bet that we have fought for things that were not in God's will for us!
We find in God's word, God doesn't have a problem fighting and standing up for us against those that will oppose us and even for those things that are in His will for us. Maybe it's time to let God be God and don't fear! All we need do is what He instructs us to do in His word and see the salvation of the LORD!
Friday, September 9, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
The Journey
We are supposed to keep our eyes on road and stay alert while on the highway, but do you ever find yourself daydreaming just a bit? I'll admit that while driving I look at the road ahead of me and consider the 'journey.'
What journey? My personal journey. Remember the song from the movie Mahogany? "Do you know where you going to, do you like the things that life is showing you? Do you know?" These are the sort of questions I ask myself about my life.
My life's journey has been exciting; its had some twists and unexpected turns. The bible says that "Man's steps are ordered by the Lord." I love that God has a grand design for our lives, I don't love that with God's gracious gift of free will, I step out of His will for my life and end up sinning. We need to give God the glory for watching over us and preparing a Plan B for us when we veer off of His original plan along this journey called life. I think the key at this present time is to look at that stretch of road ahead and ask God, "Which way Lord?" and let Him direct our path!
Blessings!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
What journey? My personal journey. Remember the song from the movie Mahogany? "Do you know where you going to, do you like the things that life is showing you? Do you know?" These are the sort of questions I ask myself about my life.
My life's journey has been exciting; its had some twists and unexpected turns. The bible says that "Man's steps are ordered by the Lord." I love that God has a grand design for our lives, I don't love that with God's gracious gift of free will, I step out of His will for my life and end up sinning. We need to give God the glory for watching over us and preparing a Plan B for us when we veer off of His original plan along this journey called life. I think the key at this present time is to look at that stretch of road ahead and ask God, "Which way Lord?" and let Him direct our path!
Blessings!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Location:Bordentown,United States
Monday, June 6, 2011
Assessing Your Reality
"You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free!" John 8:32
Here's my reality: I am not in a job I love, I can stand to lose a few more pounds, I have a hard time planning for fun things or otherwise because on any given day I'm not sure how my body is going to feel and there are other things; good and bad that are a part of my reality.
What about you? When was the last time you took an assessment of your present reality? Now perhaps you feel that you are more than aware of what's going on in your world, but are you really?
Think about all the things in our lives and about ourselves that might need adjusting or to be totally changed that we turn a blind eye to?
I know that if given the chance, I would do some things differently. But the reality is, the past is past! What we once were or did; how we may have once lived may not be how things are now because life's circumstances are always changing!
So, stop deluding yourself! Things are the way they are! Assess your reality-truthfully and reposition your life to what you want it to be! We all have the potential to be better than we ever were before!
But you cannot operate in fantasy! Stop pretending to be something that you're not or that you and your situation haven't changed! Not all change is bad. And even if the present change is not positive, assess what you can do to fix it!
Blessings!
Here's my reality: I am not in a job I love, I can stand to lose a few more pounds, I have a hard time planning for fun things or otherwise because on any given day I'm not sure how my body is going to feel and there are other things; good and bad that are a part of my reality.
What about you? When was the last time you took an assessment of your present reality? Now perhaps you feel that you are more than aware of what's going on in your world, but are you really?
Think about all the things in our lives and about ourselves that might need adjusting or to be totally changed that we turn a blind eye to?
I know that if given the chance, I would do some things differently. But the reality is, the past is past! What we once were or did; how we may have once lived may not be how things are now because life's circumstances are always changing!
So, stop deluding yourself! Things are the way they are! Assess your reality-truthfully and reposition your life to what you want it to be! We all have the potential to be better than we ever were before!
But you cannot operate in fantasy! Stop pretending to be something that you're not or that you and your situation haven't changed! Not all change is bad. And even if the present change is not positive, assess what you can do to fix it!
Blessings!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Solid Rock
Rock is a naturally occurring, solid aggregate of minerals. In plain terms, it is a sum total a particular minerals. Pulled together, minerals form something difficult to break. What would be the 'solid rock' in your life? What or who is the foundation in your life? Better yet, who or what is the cornerstone that you've built your life upon? Did you know that a cornerstone is the first stone set in the construction of a foundation and is important because all other stones are set in reference to it and the cornerstone determines the position of the entire structure.
The bible says in 1 Peter 2:4-7, "Come to Jesus Christ. He is the living stone people have rejected, but which God has chosen and highly honored. And now you are living stones being used to build a spiritual house. You are also a group of holy priests, and with the help of Jesus Christ you will offer sacrifices that please God. It is just as God says in the Scriptures, 'Look! I am placing in Zion a choice and precious cornerstone. No one who has faith in this one will be disappointed."
In life, surrounding yourself with smooth and polished living stones to help you stay grounded is wonderful! But, when you want to build on your support system, think about starting with Jesus, the True Cornerstone!
When you start with Jesus as your foundation, He helps you discern between the rocks and sand, the smoothed stones and the pebbles. With Jesus as your Cornerstone, you have a firm foundation in assisting you in developing a solid rock support system.
Blessings!
The bible says in 1 Peter 2:4-7, "Come to Jesus Christ. He is the living stone people have rejected, but which God has chosen and highly honored. And now you are living stones being used to build a spiritual house. You are also a group of holy priests, and with the help of Jesus Christ you will offer sacrifices that please God. It is just as God says in the Scriptures, 'Look! I am placing in Zion a choice and precious cornerstone. No one who has faith in this one will be disappointed."
In life, surrounding yourself with smooth and polished living stones to help you stay grounded is wonderful! But, when you want to build on your support system, think about starting with Jesus, the True Cornerstone!
When you start with Jesus as your foundation, He helps you discern between the rocks and sand, the smoothed stones and the pebbles. With Jesus as your Cornerstone, you have a firm foundation in assisting you in developing a solid rock support system.
Blessings!
Yet, Still I Rise!
Shattered, but I'm not broken, wounded still time will heal. Heavy the load, the cross I bear; lonely, the road I trod I dare. Shaken, but here I stand; weary, still I press on! Long are the nights, the tears I cry; dark are the days, no sun in the sky.
Yet still I rise!
Never to give up, never to give in against all odds!
Yet still I rise!
Sometimes I'm troubled, but not is despair! Struggling, I make my way through! Trials they come to make me strong! I must endure, I must hold on!
Above all my problems, above all my eyes can see. Knowing God is able, to strengthen me!
The words to this song have inspired me since the first I heard them. I don't know if Yolanda Adams penned these lyrics or not. But the author did a wonderful job in summing up our hard times. We do sometimes feel like we have been shattered! We have been wounded by people in this game called life! We get weary, we cry over the load we have to carry, we're struggling and sometimes trouble seems to follow us everywhere we go!
But because we have that one mainstay; because God is the same, yesterday, today and forever-we know He is ABLE to strengthen us and Yet still we rise!
As I sat in my car today, with tears streaming down my eyes, I felt compelled to share the words of this song, and the facts I've come learn over the years: God is able to strengthen, comfort and keep! With God in your life, you may be at the edge of the cliff, but God is able to keep you from falling!
Sometimes I feel low, YET STILL I RISE!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
It's All Good!
Recently I experienced the beginnings of a "mini-meltdown" at work. Embarassingly, I admit that I wanted to have french fries to go with my meager meal. However, I had been restricting my diet and there wasn't an affordable place around where I work to get an inexpensive serving of good french fries. So, what do I do? I go to the vending machine to get some potato chips, thinking it's not exactly what I want, but it is a cheap alternative that could possibly satisfy my need. The dispenser in the machine wasn't working properly and the office manager does not have a key to the machine. Yet, someone else who went to the machine, while I was trying to solve my problem, apparently took my chips and whatever he/she purchased!
I was livid! And worse yet, I was ready to throw a pity party! Wanting to become angry and sad all at the same time, something in my spirit brought to my memory God's blessings.
I may have alot of goals and aspirations not yet fulfilled, but God has and is still bringing so much to my life, as recent as yesterday!
The situation made me realize that if I just had spent the money and honored my craving for the french fries, there wouldn't have been so much drama! I mean, I don't eat them everyday, I'm not on a fast, so why not?
I remembered what the Bible says in Psalm 84:11, "The Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless."
The big picture, "It's All Good!" Sometimes we only look at one side of restricting oneself. But, for those whose walk is pleasing to the Lord, there are no real reasons to restrict yourself: for diet or otherwise because all the good things are before us from God, through Jesus Christ!
Next time you're craving something you haven't had in a while, go on an indulge yourself!
I was livid! And worse yet, I was ready to throw a pity party! Wanting to become angry and sad all at the same time, something in my spirit brought to my memory God's blessings.
I may have alot of goals and aspirations not yet fulfilled, but God has and is still bringing so much to my life, as recent as yesterday!
The situation made me realize that if I just had spent the money and honored my craving for the french fries, there wouldn't have been so much drama! I mean, I don't eat them everyday, I'm not on a fast, so why not?
I remembered what the Bible says in Psalm 84:11, "The Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless."
The big picture, "It's All Good!" Sometimes we only look at one side of restricting oneself. But, for those whose walk is pleasing to the Lord, there are no real reasons to restrict yourself: for diet or otherwise because all the good things are before us from God, through Jesus Christ!
Next time you're craving something you haven't had in a while, go on an indulge yourself!
Friday, May 13, 2011
It's All Good!
Recently I experienced the beginnings of a "mini-meltdown" at work. Embarassingly, I admit that I wanted to have french fries to go with my meager meal. However, I had been restricting my diet and there wasn't an affordable place around where I work to get an inexpensive serving of good french fries. So, what do I do? I go to the vending machine to get some potato chips, thinking it's not exactly what I want, but it is a cheap alternative that could possibly satisfy my need. The dispenser in the machine wasn't working properly and the office manager does not have a key to the machine. Yet, someone else who went to the machine, while I was trying to solve my problem, apparently took my chips and whatever he/she purchased!
I was livid! And worse yet, I was ready to throw a pity party! Wanting to become angry and sad all at the same time, something in my spirit brought to my memory God's blessings.
I may have alot of goals and aspirations not yet fulfilled, but God has and is still bringing so much to my life, as recent as yesterday!
The situation made me realize that if I just had spent the money and honored my craving for the french fries, there wouldn't have been so much drama! I mean, I don't eat them everyday, I'm not on a fast, so why not?
I remembered what the Bible says in Psalm 84:11, "The Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless."
Looking at the big picture, "It's All Good!" Sometimes we only look at one side of restricting oneself. But, for those whose walk is pleasing to the Lord, there are no real reasons to restrict yourself: for diet or otherwise because all the good things are before us from God, through Jesus Christ!
Next time you're craving something you haven't had in a while, go on an indulge yourself! IT'S ALL GOOD!
I was livid! And worse yet, I was ready to throw a pity party! Wanting to become angry and sad all at the same time, something in my spirit brought to my memory God's blessings.
I may have alot of goals and aspirations not yet fulfilled, but God has and is still bringing so much to my life, as recent as yesterday!
The situation made me realize that if I just had spent the money and honored my craving for the french fries, there wouldn't have been so much drama! I mean, I don't eat them everyday, I'm not on a fast, so why not?
I remembered what the Bible says in Psalm 84:11, "The Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless."
Looking at the big picture, "It's All Good!" Sometimes we only look at one side of restricting oneself. But, for those whose walk is pleasing to the Lord, there are no real reasons to restrict yourself: for diet or otherwise because all the good things are before us from God, through Jesus Christ!
Next time you're craving something you haven't had in a while, go on an indulge yourself! IT'S ALL GOOD!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
God's Accomplices (Angels in Disguise)
As many today will celebrate Mother's Day with their families and extended families let us think about how these women (and even some men) were used by God to aid and abet in forming who you are today.
These angels in disguise unwittingly helped groom, mold, and shape you. They had the special assignment of pouring into you to help develop you and stimulate your growth. They provided materially and they fought spiritually for you.
Who were these angels? Only you know who they are, whether parent, relative, friend, or even stranger, know that God has a whole team assigned to your case to assist you in becoming what He wants you to be!
I thank God for my team of angels surrounding me, especially the chief angel in my life! Thank you Mom!
Blessings!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
These angels in disguise unwittingly helped groom, mold, and shape you. They had the special assignment of pouring into you to help develop you and stimulate your growth. They provided materially and they fought spiritually for you.
Who were these angels? Only you know who they are, whether parent, relative, friend, or even stranger, know that God has a whole team assigned to your case to assist you in becoming what He wants you to be!
I thank God for my team of angels surrounding me, especially the chief angel in my life! Thank you Mom!
Blessings!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Location:Oceania St,,United States
Thursday, April 28, 2011
External/Internal Hunger
In the effort to lose weight, diet and weight loss experts often tell people to ask themselves if they are really hungry or not.
And what is meant by that question is whether or not the individual is experiencing true physical hunger and in need of physical food.or is there something else that one hungers for.
It is admirable to have goals and dreams you aspire to achieve. But where does your hunger come from? Is it an internal hunger that comes from the will of God? Is it birthed from the gifts and talents instilled in you by the Creator? Is it the hunger from within that drives you to want to live your highest life and live a life pleasing to God?
Or do you find that you have a source of hunger that is outside of you, influenced by the world and what it wants you to want? Think about the source of your hunger and consider where it is leading you.
Jesus said, "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?" Something to think about...
And what is meant by that question is whether or not the individual is experiencing true physical hunger and in need of physical food.or is there something else that one hungers for.
It is admirable to have goals and dreams you aspire to achieve. But where does your hunger come from? Is it an internal hunger that comes from the will of God? Is it birthed from the gifts and talents instilled in you by the Creator? Is it the hunger from within that drives you to want to live your highest life and live a life pleasing to God?
Or do you find that you have a source of hunger that is outside of you, influenced by the world and what it wants you to want? Think about the source of your hunger and consider where it is leading you.
Jesus said, "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?" Something to think about...
Monday, April 11, 2011
Exercise for Body and Soul
The bible says in 1 Timothy 4:8, "For bodily exercise profits little, but godliness is profitable unto all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come."
I believe God meant for us to take care of both body and soul. In that verse, God is letting us kmow that we must not solely focus on the physical, but also be careful to take care of the spiritual. We need to train toward godliness. We must make an effort to develop our spiritual physique, perfecting it, strengthening it as well and even more so than our physical bodies. Without spiritual fitness, how will one stand against the enemy, Satan?
And even God wants us to take care of our physical bodies because they are the temple of the Holy Spirit for those who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
So whatever your form of physical fitness; keep it going, but consider exercise for the soul! Confess your sins, and make Jesus Christ your personal Savior, reconnect to God thru prayer, reading and meditating on the Scriptures, or deciding to attend a church service next Sunday. Exercise is good for both body and soul!
Blessings!
I believe God meant for us to take care of both body and soul. In that verse, God is letting us kmow that we must not solely focus on the physical, but also be careful to take care of the spiritual. We need to train toward godliness. We must make an effort to develop our spiritual physique, perfecting it, strengthening it as well and even more so than our physical bodies. Without spiritual fitness, how will one stand against the enemy, Satan?
And even God wants us to take care of our physical bodies because they are the temple of the Holy Spirit for those who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
So whatever your form of physical fitness; keep it going, but consider exercise for the soul! Confess your sins, and make Jesus Christ your personal Savior, reconnect to God thru prayer, reading and meditating on the Scriptures, or deciding to attend a church service next Sunday. Exercise is good for both body and soul!
Blessings!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
LET NOTHING MOVE YOU
In 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV), it says, "Therefore my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourself fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
For me, as I for many years now have devoted myself to the work of the Lord, it means to continue in the work I've been called to do. It means don't give up and don't be easily influenced by things or people who would distract me away from this work.
But what about you? Life is so busy and you do have many distractions and the world provides a plethora of influences for all of us to succumb to. Do you even know what you are doing and what you are laboring for?
If you know that what you labor for and what you stand for is God honoring and represents your highest self-then to God be the glory and LET NOTHING MOVE YOU!
But, if you examine yourself and your motives and find that your labor is not worthwhile or is not conforming you to the image of Christ, then you may very well have to make some moves for the better.
Something to think about...
Blessings!
For me, as I for many years now have devoted myself to the work of the Lord, it means to continue in the work I've been called to do. It means don't give up and don't be easily influenced by things or people who would distract me away from this work.
But what about you? Life is so busy and you do have many distractions and the world provides a plethora of influences for all of us to succumb to. Do you even know what you are doing and what you are laboring for?
If you know that what you labor for and what you stand for is God honoring and represents your highest self-then to God be the glory and LET NOTHING MOVE YOU!
But, if you examine yourself and your motives and find that your labor is not worthwhile or is not conforming you to the image of Christ, then you may very well have to make some moves for the better.
Something to think about...
Blessings!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
MIND YOUR BUSINESS!
Yes, I said it, MIND YOUR BUSINESS!
I found myself once again getting that feeling of being overwhelmed over the amount of tasks and duties that have to get done. All week I've been walking around with my big bag, which if you didn't know, I love my bags! But, I don't love my bags being so heavy! Why heavy? My bag has been filled with files, notes, unopened mail, mail that has to be mailed, mail that needs an answer, books and sermons, and Sunday School lessons. So much that I have to address.
Yet, I thought about how the night before, I vegetated in front of the television. I thought about other nights or Saturdays where I had 3 or more hours where I wasn't driving my daughter around somewhere, where I did nothing but watch television or laid in bed.
Now, don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with down time, we all need it. But I believe that in some of those hours where I did nothing, I missed the opportunity to mind my business!
So, what about you? Are you minding your business?
I think about the Proverbs 31 woman, who is the ultimate and ideal woman who held down her business: she took care of her children, took care of her man, took care of her home, was an entrepreneur! She was EVERY WOMAN!
But handling your business is not just about being a woman! Men and women should all be about minding their business so that they can teach their children to mind their business!
If you have time to sit on the couch, leave the tv alone, get on the laptop-pay some bills! Respond to some correspondence, make that needed phone call. Better yet, get off the couch, get your workout on, then clean out the clutter: in your closets, desk, in your mind!
Whatever it is that you need to do to further and advance you and your family-GET IT DONE!
Let's stop minding what the soap opera couples are doing! Let's forget about all the housewives and basketball wives! Let the guys play their games without you, because guess what? They make their money when we mind their business!
So you get yours, by MINDING YOUR BUSINESS!
Blessings!
I found myself once again getting that feeling of being overwhelmed over the amount of tasks and duties that have to get done. All week I've been walking around with my big bag, which if you didn't know, I love my bags! But, I don't love my bags being so heavy! Why heavy? My bag has been filled with files, notes, unopened mail, mail that has to be mailed, mail that needs an answer, books and sermons, and Sunday School lessons. So much that I have to address.
Yet, I thought about how the night before, I vegetated in front of the television. I thought about other nights or Saturdays where I had 3 or more hours where I wasn't driving my daughter around somewhere, where I did nothing but watch television or laid in bed.
Now, don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with down time, we all need it. But I believe that in some of those hours where I did nothing, I missed the opportunity to mind my business!
So, what about you? Are you minding your business?
I think about the Proverbs 31 woman, who is the ultimate and ideal woman who held down her business: she took care of her children, took care of her man, took care of her home, was an entrepreneur! She was EVERY WOMAN!
But handling your business is not just about being a woman! Men and women should all be about minding their business so that they can teach their children to mind their business!
If you have time to sit on the couch, leave the tv alone, get on the laptop-pay some bills! Respond to some correspondence, make that needed phone call. Better yet, get off the couch, get your workout on, then clean out the clutter: in your closets, desk, in your mind!
Whatever it is that you need to do to further and advance you and your family-GET IT DONE!
Let's stop minding what the soap opera couples are doing! Let's forget about all the housewives and basketball wives! Let the guys play their games without you, because guess what? They make their money when we mind their business!
So you get yours, by MINDING YOUR BUSINESS!
Blessings!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Nourished
I'm sitting this evening listening to the steady rain and it made me think about how much we need the water. But tonight, as I think of the rain; the water makes me think about being nourished.
It is said that if one were deprived food and not water he or she could survive for quite awhile. However, if one were deprived water the individual would perish much quicker.
A good portion of the human body is made of water, even in the womb, humans are surrounded-nourished by water.
This brings to mind for me, Psalm 1 because those who are righteous, they are like a tree planted by rivers of waters. They are physically nourished with water; but what nourishes them spiritually is the Word of God!
The more you choose to walk with God; the more the world tries to drain you, weaken you so that you're more vulnerable to sin. But being nourished by the Word of God is the believer's feast!
Learn to listen to your body; feeling a little run down or weak and food is just not doing it for you? Let God's word replenish your soul!
Jesus said "whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst..."
It is said that if one were deprived food and not water he or she could survive for quite awhile. However, if one were deprived water the individual would perish much quicker.
A good portion of the human body is made of water, even in the womb, humans are surrounded-nourished by water.
This brings to mind for me, Psalm 1 because those who are righteous, they are like a tree planted by rivers of waters. They are physically nourished with water; but what nourishes them spiritually is the Word of God!
The more you choose to walk with God; the more the world tries to drain you, weaken you so that you're more vulnerable to sin. But being nourished by the Word of God is the believer's feast!
Learn to listen to your body; feeling a little run down or weak and food is just not doing it for you? Let God's word replenish your soul!
Jesus said "whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst..."
Saturday, February 26, 2011
MID-YEAR REVIEW
This post is somewhat late. I usually like to write early in the week, but it was a holiday weekend and I felt compelled to purge-my closet!
And after spending a day and a half wading through such an abundance of clothes, I felt ashamed. Ashamed for the excess, ashamed that some of those very clothes I brought out of impulse and the desire to try to fulfill a need that money cannot buy. And with spending that time purging and organizing, it took time away from needed relaxation and other things I would have liked to have done with that time.
I have found that it is true that once you turn a certain age milestone that life doesn't have to dramatically change, but I think that there is definitely a shift in one's paradigms-standards where some things you just do not want to stand for or continue to deal with. For me, it's about not being so disorganized that I cannot think. It's about putting more focus on what's important in life.
And if you've been the kind of person who has poured your whole self into others, it's time to reevaluate your self care. This is my year in review; I've come to the conclusion that these are not the days to settle, or to be silent. Now more than ever, I've got to be more accountable to God, yes even I as a minister sometimes lets the so-called "small stuff" slip. But sin is still sin! And I have to be more accountable to my family and their needs as well as the ministry that God has called me to.
What about you? As spring approaches and we face another change in season, may it's time to do a mid-year review in your own life. Is there need for an adjustment or a total renovation, seek the Lord and allow Him to lead you through the next phase of your life!
P.S. I can actually walk into my closet! :)
Blessings
And after spending a day and a half wading through such an abundance of clothes, I felt ashamed. Ashamed for the excess, ashamed that some of those very clothes I brought out of impulse and the desire to try to fulfill a need that money cannot buy. And with spending that time purging and organizing, it took time away from needed relaxation and other things I would have liked to have done with that time.
I have found that it is true that once you turn a certain age milestone that life doesn't have to dramatically change, but I think that there is definitely a shift in one's paradigms-standards where some things you just do not want to stand for or continue to deal with. For me, it's about not being so disorganized that I cannot think. It's about putting more focus on what's important in life.
And if you've been the kind of person who has poured your whole self into others, it's time to reevaluate your self care. This is my year in review; I've come to the conclusion that these are not the days to settle, or to be silent. Now more than ever, I've got to be more accountable to God, yes even I as a minister sometimes lets the so-called "small stuff" slip. But sin is still sin! And I have to be more accountable to my family and their needs as well as the ministry that God has called me to.
What about you? As spring approaches and we face another change in season, may it's time to do a mid-year review in your own life. Is there need for an adjustment or a total renovation, seek the Lord and allow Him to lead you through the next phase of your life!
P.S. I can actually walk into my closet! :)
Blessings
Saturday, February 12, 2011
What's for You?
I recently became aware of a performance opportunity for my daughter. She is in "the business" for right now, and she was quite excited about the auditions and she prayed for a good outcome. I also prayed, but I prayed in a different way, I first thanked God for the opportunity that presented itself and then I asked that the Lord that HIS will be done!
Yes, like our wonderful God in heaven, I want every good thing for my daughter, like God desires that His people have every good thing. But by what standards are we judging the things we desire; by God's or ours?
On the way to the callback for the audition, I told my daughter not to tie up too much emotion into this and respond to it for what it is, an opportunity, but not necessarily your opportunity. If this undertaking, if this opportunity is for you sent from God, you will get it and you will do well with it. If you don't, then you will know that this was not for you and praise God for His intervention!
We live in a make it happen kind of world! I've made some things happen that definitely didn't work out for my highest good; certainly didn't reflect what God wanted for me! What God has for you is for you! When someone told me that many years ago, I didn't know what that meant because I did all the work trying to bring good things into my life. But, I was stupid! I have a God who already said in His word that every good thing comes from Him and He does not withhold any good thing from us, His people!
I think it's okay to have ambition, to aspire to greater things, to be receptive to opportunities, but if it doesn't work out right after you've done all you can, maybe it's just not for you! Try surrendering your heart, mind, soul, desires, ambitions and aspirations to God, so that He can show you what's for you, and what is not. At the end of the day, the good things that "I make happen," pale in comparison to the good things God has already promised He has for me!
Blessings!
Yes, like our wonderful God in heaven, I want every good thing for my daughter, like God desires that His people have every good thing. But by what standards are we judging the things we desire; by God's or ours?
On the way to the callback for the audition, I told my daughter not to tie up too much emotion into this and respond to it for what it is, an opportunity, but not necessarily your opportunity. If this undertaking, if this opportunity is for you sent from God, you will get it and you will do well with it. If you don't, then you will know that this was not for you and praise God for His intervention!
We live in a make it happen kind of world! I've made some things happen that definitely didn't work out for my highest good; certainly didn't reflect what God wanted for me! What God has for you is for you! When someone told me that many years ago, I didn't know what that meant because I did all the work trying to bring good things into my life. But, I was stupid! I have a God who already said in His word that every good thing comes from Him and He does not withhold any good thing from us, His people!
I think it's okay to have ambition, to aspire to greater things, to be receptive to opportunities, but if it doesn't work out right after you've done all you can, maybe it's just not for you! Try surrendering your heart, mind, soul, desires, ambitions and aspirations to God, so that He can show you what's for you, and what is not. At the end of the day, the good things that "I make happen," pale in comparison to the good things God has already promised He has for me!
Blessings!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Letting Go of a Love
This past Sunday at church, the preacher preached from the title, "I Use to Love Her."
He spoke about how before we come to know Christ, we are in love with "her," meaning the "world." Well, that is indeed true and I would even dare say that that love affair for some is still going on, or is revisited every now and again.
Let's be real, letting go of a love, whether of worldly things or not is sometimes hard to do.
I find myself thinking about the love relationship I have going on right now, with whom or what is really not the issue. Because, when a love starts to hurt you, or you have allowed it to hurt you for far too long, then it becomes a problem.
It's about having known this person, this "thing;" being used to something that has been in your life for so long, that it is difficult to see your life without him, her, or it. The song says, "Breaking Up is Hard to Do" and that is no lie!
But where is God in all of this? 1 John 4:8 says, "Whoever does not love, does not know God because God is love." So we are to love, or at least try to love as God, the author of love, loves-unconditionally. And it's okay to love: people, your church, a good book, as long as these things do not interfere with your relationship with God! God ALWAYS comes first! Why?
Sometimes, after much fasting and prayer, the difficult decision has to be made: am I receiving love or am I use to the abuse when so called "love" hurts?
There are no easy answers, but one thing I know for sure, the change one wants to see, has to begin in the individual. Inaction does not produce action. One has to make a move!
Blessings...
He spoke about how before we come to know Christ, we are in love with "her," meaning the "world." Well, that is indeed true and I would even dare say that that love affair for some is still going on, or is revisited every now and again.
Let's be real, letting go of a love, whether of worldly things or not is sometimes hard to do.
I find myself thinking about the love relationship I have going on right now, with whom or what is really not the issue. Because, when a love starts to hurt you, or you have allowed it to hurt you for far too long, then it becomes a problem.
It's about having known this person, this "thing;" being used to something that has been in your life for so long, that it is difficult to see your life without him, her, or it. The song says, "Breaking Up is Hard to Do" and that is no lie!
But where is God in all of this? 1 John 4:8 says, "Whoever does not love, does not know God because God is love." So we are to love, or at least try to love as God, the author of love, loves-unconditionally. And it's okay to love: people, your church, a good book, as long as these things do not interfere with your relationship with God! God ALWAYS comes first! Why?
- Because people can and do leave
- Because people are in churches, churches can be dysfunctional
- And no person or object can call themselves your Creator!
Sometimes, after much fasting and prayer, the difficult decision has to be made: am I receiving love or am I use to the abuse when so called "love" hurts?
There are no easy answers, but one thing I know for sure, the change one wants to see, has to begin in the individual. Inaction does not produce action. One has to make a move!
Blessings...
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Tomorrow
The perfectionist in me loves to plan. Over the years, I have invested in planner tools and outlined my activities down to the minute sometimes. There is something about being organized, from someone who is not always orgainzed that truly appeals to me. And each day, I look forward to what I have planned on the agenda for tomorrow. I even jot down what I don't get to today and put it on tomorrow's list of things to do.
I look forward to tomorrow when today doesn't go the way I want. Tomorrow is the ray of hope when my todays and yesterdays didn't live up to my expectations.
But the bible says in Proverbs 27:1, "Don't brag about tomorrow! Each day brings its own surprises." (CEV)
One of the reasons I love the bible so much is that the truth just jumps out at you; at least it does for those searching for the truth!
We so often take our tomorrows for granted. Think about some of the tomorrows that you've lived through. I can remember this time last year where many of tomorrows involved going back and forth to different doctors, all trying to determine what exactly was wrong with me. I can say it now that doctors thought I had a blood disorder. One of my tomorrows even involved having a biopsy, just to rule out even more serious conditions. Then, tomorrow didn't seem so hopeful; then I didn't know if tomorrow would bring weakness and pain or if I would have a "good day."
There is definitely hope in our tomorrows, don't get me wrong! But we must remember that tomorrows are our yesterdays and todays that have yet to come. So, let's make our todays count! After all, we are not promised tomorrow.
So, let's live in today, let's love in today, let's be our best selves TODAY!
Blessings!
I look forward to tomorrow when today doesn't go the way I want. Tomorrow is the ray of hope when my todays and yesterdays didn't live up to my expectations.
But the bible says in Proverbs 27:1, "Don't brag about tomorrow! Each day brings its own surprises." (CEV)
One of the reasons I love the bible so much is that the truth just jumps out at you; at least it does for those searching for the truth!
We so often take our tomorrows for granted. Think about some of the tomorrows that you've lived through. I can remember this time last year where many of tomorrows involved going back and forth to different doctors, all trying to determine what exactly was wrong with me. I can say it now that doctors thought I had a blood disorder. One of my tomorrows even involved having a biopsy, just to rule out even more serious conditions. Then, tomorrow didn't seem so hopeful; then I didn't know if tomorrow would bring weakness and pain or if I would have a "good day."
There is definitely hope in our tomorrows, don't get me wrong! But we must remember that tomorrows are our yesterdays and todays that have yet to come. So, let's make our todays count! After all, we are not promised tomorrow.
So, let's live in today, let's love in today, let's be our best selves TODAY!
Blessings!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Don't Lose Focus!
I don't know about you, but when a new year comes around, I get reflective. I take time out and think about how far I've come and where I want to go. And for someone who sometimes is extremely hard on herself, much frustration comes up.
Why?
Well, I think about where I wanted to be in terms of career goals, relationship goals (yes, I have relationship goals) and financial goals. I want things; some things of a spiritual nature, but there are some things of a material nature too!
I enjoy watching HGTV and I watch the shopping channel from time to time and sometimes daydream about having some of the things I see. But sometimes it goes a little too far; my goals for attaining certain material things seemed to begin to be more important than my other goals.
I recently told a friend that I was convicted about this and confessed in my prayertime that I had been a bit too focused on the material.
In the parable of the Rich Young Man (Matthew 19:16-24), the Rich Young Man, wanted the right thing, to follow Jesus, he was doing the right thing; he kept the commandments.
But one thing stood in the way of him and eternal life, he could not give up his wealth!
Now I believe that whatever God has for each of us (car, home ownership, lots of material possessions), it is for us no question. But when we allow these things to shift our focus from the greater and bigger picture of eternal life and our real purpose here on earth, then our material things become a problem!
We were created for worship and praise to the one and only true God! Our material stuff is just that, STUFF! GOD THRU JESUS CHRIST SHOULD BE OUR FOCUS!
What do you think? Do you want to walk away sad from a life in Christ because the pull of the world's stuff is too great?
As for me, I'm hoping God will continue to convict and correct when I lose focus. I desire to set my heart on things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
After all, we've brought nothing into this world, and we take nothing out...
Why?
Well, I think about where I wanted to be in terms of career goals, relationship goals (yes, I have relationship goals) and financial goals. I want things; some things of a spiritual nature, but there are some things of a material nature too!
I enjoy watching HGTV and I watch the shopping channel from time to time and sometimes daydream about having some of the things I see. But sometimes it goes a little too far; my goals for attaining certain material things seemed to begin to be more important than my other goals.
I recently told a friend that I was convicted about this and confessed in my prayertime that I had been a bit too focused on the material.
In the parable of the Rich Young Man (Matthew 19:16-24), the Rich Young Man, wanted the right thing, to follow Jesus, he was doing the right thing; he kept the commandments.
But one thing stood in the way of him and eternal life, he could not give up his wealth!
Now I believe that whatever God has for each of us (car, home ownership, lots of material possessions), it is for us no question. But when we allow these things to shift our focus from the greater and bigger picture of eternal life and our real purpose here on earth, then our material things become a problem!
We were created for worship and praise to the one and only true God! Our material stuff is just that, STUFF! GOD THRU JESUS CHRIST SHOULD BE OUR FOCUS!
What do you think? Do you want to walk away sad from a life in Christ because the pull of the world's stuff is too great?
As for me, I'm hoping God will continue to convict and correct when I lose focus. I desire to set my heart on things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
After all, we've brought nothing into this world, and we take nothing out...
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Earth Holds No Sorrow that Heaven Cannot Heal
I attended yet another funeral of someone I have come to love and respect.. Yes, as with life, there is certainly death. It is a reality, and those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior, we are certain that our loved ones and friends are with the Lord.
But it still hurts! We still miss those whom we've shared so much: laughs, tears, and daily dramas, up and downs. There is a piece of our lives suddenly missing and we want it back!
Can anyone relate to what I'm saying?
Yes, I take a moment to cry out and lament over how much I will miss this person and reflect over the many others I've lost in my short lifetime. It's okay to mourn! In my capacity as a minister, I think about how diffiuclt it was for me to fight back the tears today in order to be strong for the family and the congregation. I looked over at my pastor and wondered how many times he had to fight back tears in order to lead surviving families and friends in celebrating the life of the departed.
We can be encouraged that as much as we may mourn and experience the sorrow of losing a loved one, it is definitely true that God can handle our sorrows! God can at just the right time lift you up out of your sorrows; whether He allows you to wake up in the morning feeling like a weight has been lifted or whether
He sends people into your life that show up with the word or action that can help you feel like you can make it another day, God can and God will see you through!
But it still hurts! We still miss those whom we've shared so much: laughs, tears, and daily dramas, up and downs. There is a piece of our lives suddenly missing and we want it back!
Can anyone relate to what I'm saying?
Yes, I take a moment to cry out and lament over how much I will miss this person and reflect over the many others I've lost in my short lifetime. It's okay to mourn! In my capacity as a minister, I think about how diffiuclt it was for me to fight back the tears today in order to be strong for the family and the congregation. I looked over at my pastor and wondered how many times he had to fight back tears in order to lead surviving families and friends in celebrating the life of the departed.
We can be encouraged that as much as we may mourn and experience the sorrow of losing a loved one, it is definitely true that God can handle our sorrows! God can at just the right time lift you up out of your sorrows; whether He allows you to wake up in the morning feeling like a weight has been lifted or whether
He sends people into your life that show up with the word or action that can help you feel like you can make it another day, God can and God will see you through!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
It's a New Day!
Yes, it's been a long time since you've last heard from me. We have a new look and a new title because it is a new day! And this day is new year!
John 8:32 says, "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
The year 2011 is about telling the truth, and the truth is, in my world, I experienced many challenges; physically, emotionally, and mentally during 2010. I may have taken on too much, despite receiving news of a medical diagnosis. I definitely continued to be troubled regarding stressors on my job, in church and all of those related to raising a teenager as a single mom.
I wanted to feel alive, despite the pain that has come to be apart of my life for this present moment. I don't own it forever, but I am in the reality that for this point in time it's what I have to deal with. To feel alive, I piled on responsibilities and obligations, did my best to be present for social engagements.
These things are not wrong, but when used to stuff feelings-pain even, they turned out to be wrong decisons and failed to leave time for the more important things. These were the truths for my world.
How about you??
The truth of God is this, if we tell the truth, if we face the truth, it will indeed set us free! Isn't true? :)
How good does it feel after so many lies to have the truth come out! Doesn't it feel like a weight has been lifted? Yes, sometimes truth hurts, but in these last and evil days, do you really want your life to be a series of lies to yourself and others?
So here's some truth from me: I went on Facebook and posted my hope that those who did not know Jesus Christ as their personal Savior would confess their sins and believe on Him that they would be saved. Only one person "liked" my posting. The truth: I was shocked that there was not more. The truth is, we do not know the day or the hour of when Christ will return for His own and if you are not ready when He comes, then you will be left behind! If I sound insistent, it's because it's important, and it is indeed in the Word of God.
The truth is, we are living in times when we cannot afford to continue to live in sin! 2011 is a year to step out boldly and spread the Good News of Jesus Christ!
It's a new day!
John 8:32 says, "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
The year 2011 is about telling the truth, and the truth is, in my world, I experienced many challenges; physically, emotionally, and mentally during 2010. I may have taken on too much, despite receiving news of a medical diagnosis. I definitely continued to be troubled regarding stressors on my job, in church and all of those related to raising a teenager as a single mom.
I wanted to feel alive, despite the pain that has come to be apart of my life for this present moment. I don't own it forever, but I am in the reality that for this point in time it's what I have to deal with. To feel alive, I piled on responsibilities and obligations, did my best to be present for social engagements.
These things are not wrong, but when used to stuff feelings-pain even, they turned out to be wrong decisons and failed to leave time for the more important things. These were the truths for my world.
How about you??
The truth of God is this, if we tell the truth, if we face the truth, it will indeed set us free! Isn't true? :)
How good does it feel after so many lies to have the truth come out! Doesn't it feel like a weight has been lifted? Yes, sometimes truth hurts, but in these last and evil days, do you really want your life to be a series of lies to yourself and others?
So here's some truth from me: I went on Facebook and posted my hope that those who did not know Jesus Christ as their personal Savior would confess their sins and believe on Him that they would be saved. Only one person "liked" my posting. The truth: I was shocked that there was not more. The truth is, we do not know the day or the hour of when Christ will return for His own and if you are not ready when He comes, then you will be left behind! If I sound insistent, it's because it's important, and it is indeed in the Word of God.
The truth is, we are living in times when we cannot afford to continue to live in sin! 2011 is a year to step out boldly and spread the Good News of Jesus Christ!
It's a new day!
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