What is your favorite Gospel song and why?

Every person should have a beloved song which moves them to that ‘happy’ place. My favorite Gospel song is HOLINESS by Donnie McClurkin . Holiness is one of my special Gospel songs because it permits me to be with God & the Holy Spirit which typically leads to tears of joy!




This song and its straightforward lyrics convey a message that depicts the average person who is broken, seeking, searching for something and when all else has failed they reach out to connect with God the Father, Son & Holy Spirit. “Holiness is what I long for and what I need”. [You] The singer asks the Holy Spirit to “Take my heart and form it and my mind transform it to your will.” When you sincerely pay attention to the words, the song is describing you! Your participation forces a person to become humble see a mental picture of self and during this short period begin to remove barriers which allows the Holy Spirit to enter the vessel.


During my encounter of attack from Satan, which inflicted pain from every possible source, I reverted to the power of song. We all have been there; having the overwhelming feeling of anxiety so strong it actually made you weak. You try praying and meditating all to no avail. From your belief in God’s love and his power there is no option of giving up or doubting victory. I wanted peace and to be still; there is no option of reverting back to old habits. Therefore, I begin to sing. There is power through song and praise!


In spite of all the trials and tribulations we encounter God loves a happy person. Song can be good medicine for a cheerful heart otherwise a depressed and crushed spirit will dry up the bones. Prov. 17:21-23


There will come a time that every living person will experience some dreadful feeling. What do you do to over come? What is your favorite Gospel song which bring you joy and why? Find a song of praise and sing it with good cheer!



Tigner

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Letting Go for God is Hard

Free falling off a cliff

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3: 5-6


Hanging on to life's cliff

If you where hanging off a cliff screaming for help and heard the voice of Jesus say "let go" would you? Or would you be the Christian who is ever hearing but never understanding; ever seeing but never perceiving and whose heart has become calloused. (Isaiah 6,  Matt. 13)


Jesus encouraged His followers to see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, turn from their ways, and he would heal them. It is clear what the out come would be when applying this method, however, many Christians choose to follow their own logic and understanding. God sees the end from the very beginning, all we have to do is trust.

Hanging on to burdens

In life, we find ourselves suspended over perplexed situations that cause frustration and disappointment which prompts us to call on the Lord. From praying we anticipate and receive answers but choose to hang on oppose to letting go. One element of Christian growth is to learn when to plant and sow; when to take on new tasks, when to hold, and when to let go.  Another component of growth is to find the true connection with God, increase knowledge, relationship, trust, and faith in Christ which will allow you to make right decisions as well as reap the benefits of joy.

Walking with Christ

This new concept of walking with Christ is not an easy process. There will be set backs, as well as joy and happiness. During the dry seasons don’t complain about life but find short bursts of elation and continuously building upon it will conquer grief. Joy and sadness cannot coexist in the same space at the same time.

Whatever your ‘cliff in life’ may be, just submit yourself, walk and trust in God! Stop trying to figure it out. If it’s a job, home, relationship, children, or finances, let go of the ledge. Will it be easy? NO but you will make it! God got your back. Find your safety net through God. It will make way for a better relationship with Christ!


Tigner

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1+1=3

There are many branches of mathematics which study numbers, and shapes. When applied, math’s intent is to formulate and establish truth by deduction. Simply put a person can find a solution to a problem. Since pre-school we were taught 1+1=2. Well, I’m here to inform you God’s math does not equate to the logic of man’s definition. One plus one equals three!


There are several occasions where God’s unnatural math superseded the rational of man. Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, where three men that were thrown in a fiery furnace while an astounded King Nebuchadnezzar stood in haste; "was it not three men casted into the midst of the fire?" God’s supernatural allowed Nebchadnezzar to see four men loosed. Daniel 3:1-30 Jesus also told his disciples where two or three have gathered together in my name I am there.

Today, we allow our ego to hinder God’s miracles. We sum up problems by drawing our own conclusions by Edging God Out, we seek advice from strangers hoping their theory is the absolute value of a complex situation; evaluate problems and come up with our own conclusions; we diametrically oppose everything Christ encourages us to do which is come to Him with our problems. God is knocking but until we in allow him to enter he will always be on the outside. Find a course of action to apply God’s arithmetic instead of your math. God’s infinite wisdom is a far greater mass than we can ever imagine: one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day to God! 2 Peter 3:8

By removing ego, submitting your all and joining the greatest common factor – God this will allow him to work through you. The return on such an investment will increase the dividends of life, happiness, joy, peace, love and your relationship with God. They will add up to insurmountable blessings!

Tigner Rand


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Changing your thoughts you can change your world!

Brothers and sisters, whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things. Whatever you have learned, received, heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9



I recently read, people misunderstand or misinterpret the idea of “adopting a positive attitude about life.” In theory, most accept as truth the only way to achieve a positive attitude one has to be happy go lucky everyday; there are no variations of contentment. As with all situations there is also a sect that closes their eyes to reality. In general, their intent is to trick themselves that events or negative actions did not take place. Both circumstances are wrong ways to a positive life.

By no means can I give all the antidotes in one short piece of writing on how to obtain a cheery attitude in regards to living. Nevertheless I will attempt to provide you with examples I feel are vital for us all in achieving a more Chrsit like mind set. Adopting a positive attitude is more about how you approach existence oppose to how you perceive or view it. It is so easy for a person to see the negative, cry whoa is me and give up on everything. It takes a strong will of effort and the faith of a mustard seed to fight through the burdens we so often tote along. If you have not experienced such set backs or any adversity your existence will sooner than later lead you to pitfalls, conflicts, mishaps and even disasters that will turn your happy world upside down! How you deal with these misfortunes will make the difference of total dismay, bitterness, and anger with God or some glimmer of joy until the sunny days come again.

The entire epistle of Philippians was written by a man who at one time was considered one of the most zealous enthusiastic and out spoken leader of the early Christian movement. During a time when he was incarcerated and dealing with personal issues; the symbolic ‘throne in the side’ - Paul, whose name was changed from Saul, was also a prominent figure of the Synagogue where he fervently protected and upheld the laws of his Jewish forefathers. It took fourteen years of ‘unlearning’ or changing his thoughts and beliefs before he was able to scribe one of the most joyous filled books in the Bible. By renewing of the mind Paul became one of Jesus’ greatest advocates.

Just take a moment to examine yourself: If you were faced with such a calamity as Paul being chained in a damp, cold, dreary dungeon of a prison could you find it all joy to write and encourage others to be of good cheer, full of joy, fellowship, and unity? Paul clearly stated his feelings in the first chapter: “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers, I always pray with joy I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.” Philippians 1: 3-7 It is safe to assume we all would not have the same passion as Paul. In contrast our thoughts and letters would be mostly centered around our situation: Dear friends, I trust and hope this letter finds you all doing well. For me, considering my situation, I am in a dark place in life physically, mentally and literally, chained in the bowels of a dark cold cave. Though I believe God is with me it is hard for me to find joy in such a dismal time in my life. Paul never presented the negative he found joy and wanted to exemplify joy to others as a form of encouragement. By changing your thoughts you can change your world just as Paul did!

No where has it been written that being a Christian would be like tip toeing through the tulips on a bright and sunny day! Even Jesus met conflicts in his short life. However, God did pen through the various scribes of the Bible for us to count on his word and lean on it for understanding. What ever your crossroad is in life, find ways to keep joy in your heart; seize and take hold of it. Your moment of happiness may come in the form of a song, a joke, a smile or a compliment from a stranger. Take the nuggets and build upon them to conquer your sadness. It goes without saying but remember to also encourage others especially family friends and co-workers, In other words, people you frequently see. You never know what can make the difference in a person’s life.

Each situation we face during our walk of life has two sides; when faced with negative encounters seek guidance for positive solutions and when there is an over abundance of positivity sow and spread like seeds allowing them to grow and be a blessing to others. Give joy from the heart and never ever expect anything in return. Being a cheerful giver will bless you in the long run.
Remember, for every disappointment or missed opportunities realize there is something better just around the corner provided you focus on your possibilities not your impossibilities.

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

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Out of the mouth of babes: The cutest things they say

Children can say the cutest things that adults don’t forget. I am of the opinion that God’s little angels speak from the heart. Their words are sincere and genuine no matter how brutally honest they can be.

Jesus loves the little children; they are precious in his sight and from their praise God has established a stronghold around them.

Recently, I experienced a complement from a toddler about three or four years old. This child caught my attention from a far as I approached the store entrance: A happy tot dressed in a bright pink dress and two puffy pony tails skipping and singing while holding her grandmother’s hand. As the three of us approached I reached around to open door for the couple. As usual, I anticipated the typical dry thanks most women utter but to my surprise it was the youngster who blurted out a heartfelt thank you! Though the thank you was cordial it was her follow up remark that really resonated and made my day. This pint sized angel turned around and told me I really like your green shirt too! All customers passing by chimed in like a back up choir with their oohs and aahs; they too heard this little girl.

The disciples asked Jesus who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? His response was unless we change and become like little children, we will never enter the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in Jesus’ name welcomes me. It goes without saying; being child like is a challenge for most adults. We are set in our ways and see simple minded behavior as being childish. We often conceal our honesty; which one of you would dare to say anything remotely close to what this child said to me without being in fear or thinking someone was making a pass at you?

Let us gain knowledge from the children in our lives, learn to be humble, be honest, have a child like behavior and bring a bit a joy in someone’s life like this little girl expressed towards me. Though I may never see this little person again I will always cherish and rewind in my mind’s eye the look on her face when I told her THANK YOU! And I like your pink dress too!!!


Tigner
Be encouraged
http://thesoulsremedy.blogspot.com

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God’s Report Card: Are you failing?

During our school days we were graded on our ability to retain learned lessons of academia. We trekked through the hallow halls of higher learning striving for the highest mark, and then matriculating into the workforce as adults where we are now graded on execution. For both school and work a matrix was given; school issued a syllabus while work is based on job responsibility and execution of a task. Equally, they make available some form of evaluation on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis. By not meeting the minimum requirements the end result could be failure or job termination.


Some of us are the best at what we do, experts in our perspective occupations, and well knowledge in our profession: teachers, preachers, top executives, CEOs of successful companies, artist of every medium, or coaches. The question is who is learning from our knowledge? What are we doing to mentor and uplift others in our profession? Are we selfishly hording these traits for our own gratification or reaching back to share these skill sets with others? Stop and think for a moment, what if God had a report card or performance plan that He provided to us monthly quarterly or annually and we actually had an opportunity to review our appraisal. This assessment would be a pass or fail grade. It may be a surprise to many, there is a performance plan that God has provided for us yet we so often choose not to follow. God’s plan is for his children to utilize the skill sets, talents, and creativity that he so graciously gave us all to share with others.

Jesus’ parable of the talents Matt. 25: 14-30 states, “For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, which called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. To one he gave five talents, another two, and another one, each according to his own ability.” In this story, talents represented money as well as attributes. The servant who was given one talent chose to do nothing with his gift since he did not receive as many as the other servants. Are you guilty of hording your talents or believe you have nothing to contribute to others? On the contrary, we all possess a skill set, trait, or personality that can be used to uplift our fellow man. Though it may appear that you have no talents, or traits of any kind, you do have the capability to be of assistance to others. By giving back to our fellow man, this becomes a way of glorifying and edifying God. Jesus told his disciples in Matt. 25: 31-45 “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters, you did for me.’

I challenge us all, as talented as we are in our professions take time to edify God as well as educate others. So when the time comes for God to bestow us with our final grade of performance here on earth we don’t want to hear we failed but the sweet words from our Father in Heaven: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!


Tigner

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



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How Great is God?

Read:  Psalms 145

For thus says the Lord, Who created the heavens, Who is God, Who formed the earth and made it, Who has established it, Who did not create it in vain, Who formed it to be inhabited:“ I am the Lord, and there is no other.. Isaiah 45:18

 

Good Morning!

On a charming day, I had the delight of spending time with family and friends. Recalling the day's conversations, one stands out particularly in my mind, the majestic wonders of God. The conversation centered around God's greatness.

 

There was a unanimous agreement amongst all that God's works were wonderful, countless, and limitless; He formed and arranged the nine planets in their orbits, with Earth placed millions of miles away from the Sun, yet in the perfect position for life to exist. God gave each animal the capacity to find food, so they would never go without. He also provided for us, telling us not to worry about tomorrow, what to wear or eat he had us covered.

 We often take God's incredible grandeur for granted because it is there. It is part of nature and has always been this way.

 As I reflected upon the multitude of God's creations, I strived to come up with songs that best portray His majestic masterpieces. "How Great Thou Art", penned by Stuart K. Hines, was the first song that came to mind.”

 The first verse so eloquently sums up God’s greatness.: “O Lord my God I in awesome wonder consider all the worlds Thy hands have made I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, the power throughout the universe displayed.” Sing my soul, praising your greatness.

  Blessed be the Lord for the incredible wonders He has made. From the tiniest of creatures to the expanse of the galaxies, and all that lies in between. Thank you for Jesus who died on the cross for our sins.  

 Many of your creations have been taken for granted by us. Let your creations be a daily reminder of your awesome wonder. Amen!

 Music: "How Great": https://youtu.be/HZc1IiLOfDA



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Trees in the wind

Trees in the wind - Tigner Rand

Trees in the Wind

God’s presence is like the wind: Though we cannot see it you know that is always there.

 

Read:  Isaiah 55:10-13

The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” John 3:8

 

Good Morning!

My daughter was fascinated.

 

Observing the bending and folding of trees,

as they swayed in different directions

 

"Why don't trees break?" she inquired.

 

Contemplating a notion inside,

I informed her that the bending trees were caused by the wind.

 

Pondering a question arose

"What is wind?" she asked in repose

 

No answer emerged from my lips

Just a hmm and aah that slipped

 

As if waiting for divine intervention from God,

 we stood in a quiet eclipse.

 

The whistling and rustling of leaves in the trees are caused

 by God's breath, making the trees bend.

 

My little girl now recollects and beholds,

As trees sway and bend in a fold,

 

That it is God who commands

The wind to make trees dance with his hands.

in the wind



God is Still Smiling on You

God's smile on a child
Photo: Tigner J.

God is still smiling on you

Through your storms of dismay and disbelief

God is still smiling on you

Through your heartache, disappointments and pain

God is still smiling on you

Through the total confusion storms, dark days and treacherous rain

God is still smiling on you

I cannot say the day nor the hour as to when God will bring you through your trial

God’s plans; it is hard for our carnal minds to explain

But through it all stay in prayer, stay on course and just maintain

God is still smiling on you and He promised through His word

He will comfort you through your pain

God is still smiling on you!

Amen.

 

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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

 

 

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Your life story: The Greats movie of all times!

Your life is full of excitement, joy, and great memories; it's your world premiere! You have watched it over and over and over again. This narrative is filled with epic moments, standing ovations, sad scenes, along with a few screams of encore! Then it is curtain call. Your life is the making of life's greatest episode.


In the movies a director sees vision and knows the outcome of a sure masterpiece. His cast is often allowed some impromptu adlibbing provided actors stay with in reason. Nevertheless they are given a screenplay to capture the very essence of what is desired on film. There is no argument we love movies; action, drama, comedy, tragedy and even horror. We all have seen academy award winning movies which mesmerize us with spectacular special effects, convincing actors along with unforgettable lines we so often recite. Be that as it may, have you ever stopped and thought that every day of your life is a bona fide theatrical production with God as the director? He has scripted your life from conception until the final curtain. Each episode between birth and fade to black are chock-full of friends, family, associates and strangers as supporting cast members. Some give advice, comedy relief while a small group produce drama.

In life, God is the director and is in control of it all. He has provided a manuscript written for each of us to use as a reference. The Bible is the script for our leading roll, however, many choose not to refer or follow God’s script. A large number prefer to review their lines and attempt to implement what was read, others decide to discard the script, applying their own logic or understanding while a host of others spontaneously go through life not consulting the director which leads to one disappointment after another.

Our lives can be award winning adventures provided we follow God’s word. Learn to focus more on communicating with the director; ask for his advice as you approach every scene in life. Allow God to show you his ways, teach you his paths which will guide you in his truth. Psalms 25: 4-5. Stop trying to be God and allow God to do His duty by giving him your burdens, which are often carried along during life.

There will be peaks, valleys, dark and sunny days. Remember there cannot be flowers with out sunshine and rain so don’t make life a traumatic saga of despair but an epic love story that has the greatest ending of all, when you reach the final destination in heaven.

Tigner

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




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