Children, Their Lost Souls Under Siege

Image by: Tigner J.

Start children off on the way they should go and even when they are old they will not turn from it.  Proverbs 22:6

Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid. Proverbs 12:1

Two principles have disappeared from society’s code of morals; children honoring, respecting, listening, obeying parents and parent’s fear/belief of sparing a child.  Because of this disconnect, a seismic shift in values has occurred in our communities. More so than anytime during the existence of man, humanity has deemed morals to be devalued, or futile. In short, this new ideology has replaced morality with vanity and egotism which has ruptured God’s foundation of basic living.  This immoral devastation can be debated from various perspectives, however my heartache is caused by lost souls of our children who have failed due to lack of knowledge; Honor your father and mother for your days will be longer on this earth Exodus 20:12 . My eyes also stink from tears because youth walk in the way of their heart and not in the sight of their eyes by not realizing God will bring them unto judgment based on their ways. Yet, for some strange reason adults, teachers, and parents who know these words are often afraid to practice what was preached to them years ago because of public backlash for such “idiotic” beliefs.

A great deal of troubles which plaque our nation come from not following God’s word or what people consider as correct.  For example, parents have reversed roles; allowing children to dictate what they want or Department of Human Services mandating it unlawful to discipline your child.  So, is it illicit for me to spank my child if they are cursing, stealing, or being defiant? By not enforcing some form of order children are surely heading down a path of no return; death, prison or without a doubt self destruction! Based on these findings one has to assume government would rather a child be killed or imprisoned opposed to praying, teaching, Gods, word along with a little whipping and a wailing.

The point I’m trying to make, all blame cannot be placed on the shoulders of our adolescence, for they know not what they do, however this burden should rest squarely on parents and adults who in many cases have failed to educate or practice many of God’s ‘Golden Rules’ such as spare the rod and spoil the child; for whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them. Prov. 13:24. Go back to what you know worked from your mother, father, Big Mama, auntie, or Ms. Mary down the street though you did not like the lectures, whippings, or long days in church yet through it all you turned out fairly well!

Parents, raising children is harder today than ever before yet sitting on most bookshelves or coffee tables is the best parenting Manuel of all times The Holy Bible, pick it up teach your children about God and his Majestic word before the difficult days come.   For childhood and youth are a time of vanity all else will fall short of joy and beauty until you [they] seek and know God!

Tigner J.

Subscribe in a reader

A new life with Christ in 2012: What not to do

Single tree of life: Tigner J.

 Then the LORD said: “I am making a covenant with you. Before all your people I will do wonders never before done in any nation in the entire world. The people you live among will see how awesome is the work that I, the LORD, will do for you. Obey what I command you today.  Exodus 34:10-11

As 2011 comes to an end, many have strived to reach high marks, by focusing on positive affirmations or people, while to a greater degree, multitudes perceived this year as a progressively negative period in life. Regardless of what category you placed yourself, please be reminded 2011 [today] is officially history which signifies it is time to cast aside all burdens, leave behind any additional baggage: worries, fears, or uncertainties which impede you from attaining dreams. New opportunities sit ready to spawn innovative adventures; they are yours for the taking.

Anticipate 2012 being an exciting year filled with opportunities for new beginnings, a year with plenty of ups and down, good news and bad news, and ample wins and losses but remember despite the falls or stumbles, allow God to be in the midst of your state of affairs.  Take time to reflect over 2011 see from whence you came; do you see growth and development, a new creature in Christ, aligned in God’s will or one stagnant, standing still, continually focusing in the past destroying all possibility of making a change for the better? 

There is plenty of upside in 2012 just as there will be downsides however, don’t get stuck in a holding pattern of sulking because you see individuals growing and prospering while you appear to fail. The joys and pains of life is a beautiful thing; there will be peaks, valleys, dark and sunny days but remember there cannot be flowers with out sunshine and rain or a testimony without a test! 2012 should be about togetherness revitalizing strength in Christ, stop attempting to do it alone, immerse self in God’s word, study and understand it.  Surround yourself with positive like minded people, pray talk and mature collectively when two or three come together in His name, the Holy Spirit is present!

One important 2012 plan of action, become a positive thinker, optimist and true believers of God. Be crazy enough (having deep faith) to believe that your world can become what you make it provided Jesus is part of all your endeavors: This means work, decision making, goal setting, relationships, no matter what consult ‘The Great Counselor’ on everything.  Otherwise fall back into the trap of negative thinkers, pessimist or ideology of an Atheist. These adversaries belong in the category of being doubters who believe what can go wrong will go wrong.

The most excellent way to end 2011 is to follow the Master’s plan and cast your burdens upon God and he will sustain you Psalms 55:22.  It is never too late, let pass adversities and doubt stay behind latch on to God’s Life Line, keep holding on be encouraged, stay strong and do not give up your faith!   2012 is a new year, a breakthrough for new beginnings go ahead and make plans to rekindle dreams and the fire with Christ.  Make 2012 the best year of your life!

Tigner J.

Subscribe in a reader

The homeless can Give the Power of Prayer

Homeless

Then peter said silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you in the name of Jesus Christ.  Acts 3:6

How to deal with Homeless people 

Raise your hand if you have come upon a homeless person asking for money, food, or some far fetched plea.  According to National Alliance to end Homelessness[i], on any given night, in America more than 750,000 people are homeless. Over the course of a year, an additional 2.5 million will temporarily live either on the streets or in emergency shelters. Though many panhandlers could be swindlers attempting to con another victim, I have learned to remove self judgment and base my response on how the Holy Spirit leads me regarding their request. 

A Lesson from a homeless person

Recently, at a stop light, I witnessed a woman who appeared to be homeless based on tattered clothes, unclean appearance, and sores covering her face and hands.  Making her way to each vehicle, it appeared no one supplied any donations. Me being the next car in the long procession, I lowered my window and before she could utter a word, “I don’t have anything” blurted from my mouth.  Realizing in hindsight, unlike previous encounters I responded before being asked.  To my dismay this woman had a prophetic comeback to my quick witted answer; “yes, you do have something to give the power of prayer!” 

Driving off dumbfound, the story of a lame man at the beautiful came to mind, Acts 3:1-9 where Peter told the man money he had not but he did have Jesus.  I also recalled Paul’s charge to the Romans to behave like Christians by letting love be without hypocrisy, be kind to others with brotherly love and steadfastly pray Thes 5:12-18.  I’ve heard sermons and read these aforementioned stories on many occasions with intent to implement in a way to bless someone along my journey.  My brief visit was a prime opportunity to put words into action, yet I missed my cue to empower or pray for this lady. I allowed my carnal mind to lead me astray.

The Power of prayer

For days, “you have the power of prayer” lingered in my mind and raised questions. Are my prayers self-centered? Do I pray enough for the indigent as well as others? Is praying effective?  Just as too many ask is their praying in vain? No of course not! Prayer does change things. Prayer is powerful; it can alter situations affecting an individual to world changing issues.  Prayer, no matter how small once it reaches God it does not fall on death ear it will manifest, especially when people learn to touch and agree together through prayer, when two or three come together in His name he is among them Matt. 18:20.  

 I charge you to try God [again] through prayer not asking for things that can rust or corrupt but be like Solomon ask for wisdom to discern between good and evil, I Kings 3:9 pray for others well being, ask for a forgiving spirit,  filled with joy, peace, and love.  For many claim to be Christ like yet when given opportunities such as mine they also fail.  During our life journey we all will stumble upon more situations of: homeless people, co-workers, strangers, or family members partitioning for help in spite the fact money you have not. Remember to give them what you do have in the name of Jesus.   As for the unfortunate lady, I watched through my rear view mirror as she made her way along the road seeking other benevolent givers. As space separated us, I could hear her last directive:  “pray for me and others too because we all need prayer.”

---

[i] Facts based on 2008-2009 statistics http://thechicagoalliance.org

Tigner J. 

Subscribe in a reader

What is Love?

 

 

 

Let us not love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and truth      I John 3:18

 

 

I LOVE YOU, three words that are timeworn since the beginning of mankind. These unmistakable yet powerful words render affection in poems, sonnets, songs, and movies. Kings, Queens, and common people have uttered many variations world-wide.


The aforementioned scripture was chosen because today is Valentine’s Day. The true meaning of LOVE has been lost  in candy, flowers, and spontaneous dialogue - Only reacting to the day opposed to speaking from the heart. LOVE is not just a word to describe your feelings but it exemplifies a deed; something that requires action.

 

• LOVE  is unconditional - through thick, thin, hard or bad times I choose you to love!
• LOVE is patient and kind
• LOVE does not delight in evil
• LOVE never fails - 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
• True LOVE should originate from one source - LOVE is God I John 4:7.

Unconditional LOVE is a verb - an action word. It is parents sacrificing their needs for the well being of a child, caring for ill loved ones in spite of everything. This LOVE  is demonstrated in marriage when couples console one another or by doing little ‘nothings’ - pick up a rose on the way home just because, leaving love notes stating how you care (this goes both ways). Being able to talk through disagreements and never loose the feeling for your spouse.
 

 A distinctive brand of LOVE is exhibited when Christians help people who have fallen or encountered set-backs. Tending to the needs of strangers or homeless who are down trodden. They over looked rancid conditions but through compassion extend the hand of LOVE. Jesus epitomizes this type of LOVE: Verily I say unto you, in as much as you have done it unto one of the least of these brethren you have done it unto me. Mathew 26: 34-46

 True LOVEcannot be found unless you have God in you life; a man who says he loves God and does not love his brother is a liar, he that does not love his brother who he can see, how can he love God that he has not seen? I John 4:20. On this day of love I pose these questions to ponder:

• Do you LOVE your spouse?
• Do you LOVE your fellow brother?
• Do you LOVE yourself? 

Find True LOVE through God and increase your blessings!

Happy Valentine's Day!

 

Father God in Heaven,

 You asked us to love one another as we love ourselves. Many find it hard to love themselves let alone another person. Lord, in the name of Jesus I ask that you will touch your children who are trying to love but don’t know how. Prick harden hearts so your love can seep in.  I pray in the name of Jesus that you show true Godly love. Help us to grow more in  unconditional love. Your word states, “ask and it shall be done”, I pray Lord that this prayer will be the beginning of healing and removing broken hearts, barriers to allow love in to your children’s lives and allow people to once again trust in the name of Jesus. These things I pray in the name of Jesus and know that it shall be done! Amen.

 Tigner J.

 For more posts check http://thesoulsremedy.blogspot.com

 

 

Subscribe in a reader

An unspeakable act: Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords shot There is still hope through the power of prayer



Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords

 The tragic shooting of Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and innocent by-standers is heartbreaking.
A gunman open fire on a crowd, which snuffed out five lives: one federal judge along with a nine year old girl. This unspeakable act was a catastrophe for Arizona and our country.


Events such as this are hard to comprehend let alone understand however, I stand with the belief that for every heart breaking misfortune God still has the power to heal and show his presence through all the pain. “What Americans do is come together during times of tragedy”. We need to get behind Congresswoman Giffords along with the other families who suffered and begin to pray.


I ask that each of you who read this to please take time to pray daily for the injured individuals in Tucson, Arizona, as well as healing of this land. Pray that through this horrific shooting our government can bridge the gap which divides them. At the end of the day this shooting has affected our entire government not just Congresswoman Giffords and other victims. It is easier said than done but we also have to pray for the shooter and others like him asking God to restrain people who harbor hatred and bitterness toward this Country or people.

We will get through this pain and I believe that there is still hope. It is power in numbers so let us all take the time to pray in the name of Jesus.


Be encouraged and God Bless America!


Tigner


For more posts check http://thesoulsremedy.blogspot.com/



Subscribe in a reader

"Golden-Voiced" Ted Williams: Hype or a miracle from God



The early years of Ted Williams

 By now everyone has seen and been touched one way or another by the first heart-warming story of 2011. Like, hate or don’t care about it homeless man, Ted Williams, with the silky smooth voice has saturated television and radio alike. A man who had a promising radio career in the 1980s later fell from ‘grace’ due to drugs and alcoholism is now given a second chance.


Unlike most stories you have seen, heard or read I am a believer of miracles and second chances which has led me to take a more spiritual observation of the man with the “golden voice”. Ted Williams is another example that comprises of all the ingredients for God to show the masses he is still in the blessing business.

At one time or another we all have made mistakes great or small. Just like the Samaritan women (John 4:1-26) Jesus met at the well whose past life of adultery made her an outcast to society. But thanks be to God he forgave her. After her encounter with Jesus, the Bible does not mention anymore about her future; did she revert back to her old ways, hide from the nay-sayers in shame, or change her behavior. No matter how you interrupted the story of the Samaritan woman or Ted Williams they as well as you deserve a second chance.

Ted Williams Mug shots

In the hustle and bustle of our world today, society has a tendency of edging God completely out even though he continuously knocks on our hearts seeking an opportunity to form a relationship. Though we cry out and/or question God’s presence it is only because we are blinded by life’s obstructions. These barriers leave many with a sense of emptiness, loneliness, doubt and disbelieve. People like Ohio businessman ‘Dan’ who is infuriated of Mr. Williams’s notoriety and job offers from the likes of Kraft, NFL and ESPN. Here is a man with a two year rap sheet of crime and robbery that has affected Dan’s business and in his mind believes Ted does not deserve any of it.

Take a look at your life. What have you done that you deserve a second chance and society refuses to forgive you? Have you forgiven yourself? Have you asked God’s forgiveness? I don’t know what the future holds for Ted Williams and his Golden Voice. I do pray that he will take advantage of this opportunity and glorify God during the process. We to have a bit of the golden voice of Christ in us but we have to choose to listen. In the process we also have to believe and receive that Christ has forgiven us before we are granted a second chance in life.

Tigner


For more posts check http://thesoulsremedy.blogspot.com/

Subscribe in a reader

Keep holding on: God will sustain thee

Holding on

We glory in tribulations also knowing that tribulation work patience; and patience experience and experience hope. And hope makes us not ashamed because the love of God is shed aboard in our hearts by the Holy Ghost.  Romans 5:3-5


 Setbacks has inflected everyone, if it has not just keep living. Disappointments can range from work, illness, or financial dilemmas which can cause life altering hardships. 

Misfortunes can breed a spirit of withdrawal as well as excluding God from the problem. In an attempt to maroon God, stress builds up and runs rampant in a person’s life, often times consuming their strength and well-being which ultimately causes health issues. Yes, we all have struggles but through the mist of the storm we have to learn how to hold on to God’s hand and his word.

When you evaluate your life, the mind’s eye depicts failure. You have not reached the personal level of success desired. The life goals are way off the mark, thus making you feel like a failure. Your steps over the years became more arduous and existing seems to be futile. You may think the highway to ‘success’ has ended but one thing prevails, God is not dead. Christ’s unchanging love and intent for His children never changes, he wants us all to succeed! We have to follow the Master’s plan and cast our burdens upon God and he will sustain us Psalms 55:22

The most excellent way to end your battle is to get in line with God; it is never too late! Let pass adversities and doubt stay behind. Stop telling yourself you are too old or God has forsaken you. Part of your re-connection to God’s Life Line, keep holding on to the unseen faith. God is always waiting on His children to return, seek, praise, honor and adore Him! When you stop and absorb these words one has to realize that God is truly in your corner! Just keep holding on have faith daily! Your journey is not easy but Glory to God our Father will never leave us or forsake us through the tribulations. The Lord has brought up your soul from the grave, kept you alive so that you should not go down to the pit. Psalms 30 1-12


Let us pray: Our Father which is in heaven thank you for your mercy and grace and keeping us covered daily. Teach us to hold on to our faith and realize that you are with us through the joy and pain of our lives. We love you and may we glorify you in the name of Jesus. Amen

Tigner


http://thesoulsremedy.blogspot.com


Subscribe in a reader

So this is Christmas: Be thankful for what you got!

Santa and Mr. Clean

“The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works. All his works shall praise him Psalms 145:9-10

So this is Christmas a time of good cheer! Family and friends come together enjoying festive soirees. The year draws  closer to an end and a New Year awaits just beyond our horizon.

Over the past twelve months we had good times and faced some bad. But most important we need to take time to reflect back and ponder what you are thankful for. As you sit around your dinner tables, lounge around with  friends take a minute to count your blessings one by one no matter how small. 

Many got new jobs others not. Just be Thankful for what you got! Some purchased new cars, or wiped out their  debit while others welcomed new life or got a bonus check! For me, there were no great big Cadillac but God did found favor on me and my family with many blessings through out this past year. No matter how hard times may have appeared to be He always had a way to show me what the worst could be. For you see, so many of our brothers and sisters have nothing at all but for some reason God has blessed me!

So as you usher out 2010 and welcome 2011 remember no day is promised -  just think of those who were with you last year but gone to glory today. Now thank God for Blessing you for 365 days and pray for an even better new year!

May this day be great and tomorrow even better but please make sure to have a most prosperous year here to come!

This is my prayer for you in 2011!

Be encouraged

Tigner Rand


Subscribe in a reader

Are you a Failure?

So you believe that you’re a failure.

Sure, you graduated college with a B.A. and master’s degree. Now after ten years of higher learning there is really nothing to show but a sub par job. Though it is hard to perceive, those desires of the heart, your so call ‘grand’ ideas were closer to hitting a target than you think. Realize your situation is not unique however holding on to fears, bad breaks, and set backs are!

Through the course of life we all have fallen short of goals and dreams. Let’s face it, nobody is perfect, everyone has failed at something right? According to Psychologist, two most common fears people face are failure and success. Its also evident apprehension is the number one culprit for a myriad of lost opportunities along with a handful of bad breaks in many people’s life. Based on these facts, you are a failure. Well, maybe not a complete failure.

Fear of failure
The fear of failing has caused many people to fail before they attempt to start let a lone finish the project.


Fear of success

The majority of people want to succeed in life but have placed stumbling blocks in their way; fear of failure, what people would say, or procrastination.

Do any of these definitions depict you? Is there a fear to start or finish a project? Have you sabotaged your dreams with procrastination? Either way you can break through the barriers of fear by committing to memory God will provide all your needs, just believe and don't give up hope. Satan will do all he can to cause disarray in your life. God said ask and you will receive, just believe, stop being fearful, thinking in the past, shack the negative thoughts and receive your blessing from God!


Be encouraged; rekindle the fire and a winner in Christ today!



Tigner

http://thesoulsremedy.blogspot.com






Subscribe in a reader

Concealed Faith

Image by: Tigner J.

Survey an impaired person as they walk busy streets, calculating how and when to cross, listening out for danger all while managing to overcome many obstacles. It is in my option to believe that a sightless person has to have some form of faith! Miscalculate the number of steps one could fall, drop soap in the shower it may take a minute to locate it. Sure there are friends and Good Samaritans who may come to their aid but what happens on all the other dark and lonely days? I recall as a child a friend whose grandmother was deaf, blind, and could not talk. It was so amazing watching her move about without fear and communicate through sign language among her family.

I cannot imagine being blind living in a world of total darkness. Having to use my hands to feel through life and relying upon other senses to survive. Now, visualize yourself blind living in a world of total darkness, being taught to adjust in a new world of using your senses to maneuver through life? A countless number take for granted the ability to see, hear, taste, touch, walk and talk; it is not a guarantee to always have any of these aptitudes.

Applying this with a spiritual walk, scores of people rely on their own understanding and not trusting in the Lord with all their heart Proverbs 5. I’ve found myself experiencing situations from time to time, when I omitted God from my decision making and life became weary. The moment I choose to stand and wait on the Lord my verdict faired much better for me. Realize that our carnal mind cannot vision the out come so we need to learn on faith. Let us gain knowledge from people who are visually impaired. Discover the simple principle Christ attempted to teach his followers as well as all believers to walk by faith, not by sight 2 Corinthians 5:7.



Tigner J.



BlogCatalog







Subscribe in a reader