The subconscious mind hears every word

Your subconscious mind hears every word. You have a choice of listening to the positive or negative, yet most of us focus more on our mistakes over complements. Criticisms tend to impact us more than good news. I’m guilty. Despite all of God’s goodness and miraculous things he has done in my life, I’ve focused on the negative, making me no different than many prophets in the Bible. Negative events have a greater impact on our brains than positive ones. After all of Moses’s great feats, it was easy for him to focus on his burdens over how far God brought him and the children of Israel. Moses asked God to kill him (Num. 11:11-15). Jonah was no different, he ran from God because he felt inept. “It is better for me to die than to live.” As humans, we tend to Remember traumatic experiences over positive ones. Recall insults better than praises. For me, I had to find a way to combat the negative thoughts over positive. God created me and you in his likeness. We are conquers. Giants! Warriors! Yet we discredit our greatness. Through prayer and being cognizant of how I talked to myself was the first steps to more positive thoughts over negative ones. I reframed the situation in a more positive light. When new negatives try to resurface, I look for an uplifting activity to pull myself out of the negative mindset. I try to redirect thoughts to things that bring joy, a peaceful spirit. Is it easy?  No. Some days are harder than others. Here are a few things I do get my mind off negative thoughts: 

• Pray & give thanks for all my blessings
• Go for a walk
• Listen to uplifting music 
• Read a good book 

Know that you don’t suffer alone. The subconscious mind can be your friend or enemy. Guard your mind. There is power in the tongue. Speak positive into your life. 

Don’t listen to Satan even if it’s true

Satan reminded me of all my failures and imperfections. Once I allowed the thought, it festered in my mind and it became my stumbling block to greatness. I focused on failures and lost opportunities opposed to God’s Power. Negative thoughts and self condemnation caused spiritual blindness. Depression and doubtfulness set in. I exiled God and took matters into my hands. 

This is the point where the strongest of people fail. They hear or experience negative and they take it as the gospel despite the greatness that’s within! Elijah ran because of Jezebel’s decree ( 1Kings 19:2), the children of Israel would rather stay in eternal slavery and die opposed to being in the wilderness (Num. 20:4-5), Abraham failed in his faith (Gen. 12:10-20,) and Job lost patience (Job 4:7-10), yet he never lost faith in God. The devil prowls like a lion seeking to devour us (1 Peter 5:8-9). Don’t listen to Satan’s reminder of your past!  Put on the full armor of God. Cover your mind and heart so you can stand against the schemes of the devil (Eph. 6:11-17). God hears your cry. Find the inner strength and call upon the name of Jesus. Your life is worth living and God is there waiting to help. Keep moving keep praying and continue to destroy the obstacles in your life! Be encouraged!

Praise for the Lord’s mercies

If there was someone who could pull you from your pit of misery without condemning you, satisfy your desires with good things, compassionate, gracious, and slow to anger, abounding in love. Would you want to meet them? What would you do or say when you did meet them? God is that someone. We often forget God’s mercies. More often than not, we forget to give God praise. We tend to complain and ask for our desires rather than praise Him. Psalms 103 is probably the most perfect and purest Psalms in the Bible.  2020 has been an unprecedented year, and it’s not over yet. From COVID, fires, hurricanes, riots, police brutality, and Hatred we have seen or have experienced the fury one way or another. Take time to praise God through life’s storms. Use Psalms 103 as your praise guide. Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name! 

Speak positive words

Anxiety is capable of finding its way into the best of people. Uneasiness and worry blankets the mind like a pending storm. Believe it or not negative (positive) words manifest life – As a man thinks so is he. Think before you speak. What you say can be damaging words in your life. It’s unintentional but we unconsciously speak failure to ourselves and others through conversation with friends. The continuous unleashing of burdens, and unfairness of life, increase the dismal outlook currently faced. A defeated spirit destroys people. Learn to speak positive even in a negative situation. We can proclaim victory by the words we speak. For as he thinks in his heart, so is he… Proverbs 23:7.  

Be willing to spread joy

In all situations we have to be willing to spread joy. I recall a time prior to COVID I witnessed a couple of young men on the train.  As a lady entered the train,  joking, one young man says to lady, “Can you give my friend a hug he just got fired  today."  The young lady stopped and smiled and said "I got fired today too.” What transpired next was the most spontaneous and heart warming. What was meant as a joke turned into a genuine act act of kindness. Both young men got up and said “you need a hug.”  Many of us are dealing with overwhelming thoughts. We need a hug but COVID has altered our life’s normalcies. Whatever you are facing right now here is a virtual hug 🤗. No matter how severe the pain, find a little joy from a smile and a hug, even if you have to hug yourself. 

The worst part of being strong

Society recognizes strong people. Leaders  who possess great character, Resilient, with sound judgment. Some are noted people like Dr. Martin Luther King, others are regular people in our community; pastors, friends and family. They too are strong. They are always giving, advising and helping others. We tend to pull and tug more those who advise us, never giving into account they are human. Because of their tireless efforts we assume everything is all right, we never ask if they are ok. Jesus knew weariness: “Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well” (John 4:6). Jesus knew loneliness: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). Yet not one time does the Bible reflect that the disciples or people ever checked on Jesus well being. For those in your life who continuously give without complaint, take time to check on them. “The worst part of being strong is that no one ever ask if you are okay.” 

What are your dreams and visions?

Humans are the only creatures to have the capacity to exercise their creative imagination.  

Dreams of what you want to be, where to go, goals you want to accomplish. Dreams Can be divine. They are Planted Visions from God in your mind. You are made in the image of God the creator. So What are your dreams and visions? What’s hindering you from setting the dream into motion? Be renewed in the spirit of your mind (Eph. 4:23). Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established (Prov. 16:3). Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time (Hab. 2:2-3). You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Phil. 4:13). So whatever you are dreaming, now is the time to pray about it and and bring the dream to life. 

Fight like a woman

The Bible is filled with women of positive faith. Some we know by name, others, by their actions. Deborah was judge, a leader of a nation (Judges 4). She was a wife, warrior, and poet. Her faith in God lead her to victory over the Canaanites. There were other faithful 

women such as Ruth, Sarah, Rahab, Rebekah,

Leah, Mary, and Miriam. We cannot forget the  Faith of a Canaanite Woman with the possessed daughter (Mark 7:24-30). They all encountered different situations that required faith. They all believed God could fix their problems. The women of the Bible are much like the women today. They are Leaders, judges, mothers, and wives. They are strong warriors. They are relentless. Women of God who exemplify openly their love for God are capable of moving mountains. Their prayers and positive faith in God have fixed homes, communities, and have brought the hardest of men to God. Women of God know that their positive faith in God can do great things through imperfect people. 

A man carrying a pitcher

We never know when God will call us to do something uncommon. No matter how odd, strange or uncomfortable, do it. In Luke 22:10 Jesus tells the disciples to follow a man with a pitcher. Pitchers or jars of water was commonly carried by women. To see a man carry a pitcher would be very unusual. We don’t know who the man was or why he carried the pitcher but we do know God gave him a job to do and he did it! God directs us to do things but we chose not to for many reasons. I’m sure this man’s friends and family saw him, possibly talked about him and called him names yet he continued. By faithfully following God’s call, this man served God and Jesus in a unique way. He led the disciples to the last supper. When God calls us to do uncommon or unusual tasks do it. God takes the ordinary out of life and can make it extraordinary!  

Listening & learning

Listening and following directions is a challenge for many. Add God to the situation it becomes more daunting. Christians profess to follow God's word and trust in Him. We recite verses, pray to order my steps, yet we still doubt or question God. 1 King 17:7-15, the prophet Elijah, and the widow listened. Just what if neither didn’t. God told Elijah to go into enemy territory. Likewise, the widow was cooking her last meal and a stranger comes wanting water and bread to eat. How many of us would have listened to God and done either task without questioning?  When things don’t look favorable learn to listen to God's guidance. Trust God's word, even when it don't make sense. What appeared to be dismal situations for Elijah and the widow turned out to be a blessing. We're in challenging times right now. Listen to the voice of God. He may be leading you to do something that is unconventional and don’t make sense. Whatever God tells you to do, or take away he always makes provisions. Listen and trust God. 

 

Unused gifts and talents

 

 God has given everyone a talent. Yes, even you! The question is are you using them or are they dormant? The "Parable of the Talents", in Matthew 25:14–30, which servant represents you? God talents need to be used. Not buried.  Don't let your talents be wasted. There was a man who wasted his life instead of doing great things with the gifts and talents God had planted in him, he spent his life sleeping and complaining, doubting himself. Mahatma Gandhi stated, “Man often becomes what he believes himself to be.” So, what do you believe? Use what God gave to you. Edify him and be a blessing to others. 

Don’t forget God is still in control

In the face of the world spiraling out of control, let’s not forget God is still in control! Psalms 12, David prays for the people who had lost faith. The world’s unstableness is causing mental turmoil. Our nation has no compassion for the people plundered while the needy go unnoticed. God’s word is flawless. He arise and protect us from the maleficent (Ps. 12:5). 

By our tongues we can fix the conundrum we currently live in. Who is lord over you? Man or God? Christians it’s time to unite! Close the chasm that separates us from God. What we see and read daily may appear one way but it does not have to stay that way. Invoke God in your conversation not doubt, doom, and your shallow theories. Use your tongue to speak God’s word. Pray that God will keep us safe and protect us forever from the wicked, who freely strut about when what is vile is honored is by the human race. There is power in prayer. Don’t lose your faith the end is not here yet. We are still in this race call life. 

Do you know how to pray?

Prayer is essential. Prayer is transformational. Prayer is our way of communicating with God, yet many don’t know what to pray. When loss for words or prayers become monotonous, pray using scripture. Allow God’s words to be your prayer. Don’t know where to go, start with the prayers in Psalms. Praising God, (Psalms 105), prayers for the afflicted who is now weak (Psalms 102), prayers for grateful praise, (Psalms 100). By reading/praying God’s word you are aligning yourself with him! Prayer takes on a new meaning. They are not self-gratifying, or egotistical prayers for desires. 

Prayer is your intimate time with God. If you are desiring to Draw closer to God the Father, affirming His words in prayer is one way of doing so.  Remember, Prayer is: 

• Action – pray without ceasing Thes. 5:17
• It’s supplication – Phil. 4:6
• It is NOT vain repetition Mat 6:7

Father God, your eyes are on the righteous and your ears are attentive to their prayer. For everyone who reads this devotion, I ask for  you to keep them covered in your grace. May they become more connected through prayer and supplication with you. This is my prayer in Jesus name - Amen. 

 

You deserve punishment

When forgiveness is not enough what do you do? Demand harsh punishment? God’s love and forgiveness can wipe away the heinous act, but you want retribution. God asked Jonah to deliver a message to the people of Nineveh, repent from their cruel and savage ways or be destroyed. Jonah flees from God, he didn’t want to deliver the message (Jon 1:1-16). He felt they were not deserving of forgiveness, they should be destroyed. After much running and being swallowed by a whale Jonah conceded. God forgave the people but Jonah was angry at God’s compassion (Jon.4:1-2). Our God is compassionate and slow to anger. Many people feel that some leaders, organizations, and nations need to be punished for their cruel and hateful behavior. Yes they do. But who are we to judge unless we want to be judged? Stop talking, running, and thinking like Jonah. As hard as it is for us to ask God to forgive we have to. Pray to God ask to make himself known unto all the people of the land. May they turn from their evil ways, humble themselves and seek God! Despite what we think God still has concern and love  for this great nation of America. 

Sharing your gifts through the pain

Chadwick Boseman’s death affected the world! Was it his humble demeanor, gentle spirit, or his ability to command attention before opening his mouth? I continue to ponder that during his darkest hours of life, he never complained. He pressed on. I also reflect on what if Chadwick had the attitude many of us have about life’s conflicts? What if he quit making movies because he had cancer? We would have missed his gift. The genius of bringing characters to life on the big screen. Never experiencing Marshall, the Avengers, the end game, Black Panther, 21 bridges, the 5 Bloods and even his forthcoming movie Ma Rainy Black Bottom. All which were made between 2016-2019, at the pinnacle of his battle with colon cancer. Chadwick didn’t extinguish his light. His selflessness to continue using his talent through pain, allowed us to witness his great acting prowesses.  

2020 has been a year of unpredictability. We faced pandemics, epidemics, riots, senseless killings and deaths of iconic people. In some way they all have impacted us. Don’t let life’s circumstances keep you from using your God given purpose or talents. Like Chadwick let us keep pressing forward. For each time we don’t allow our light to shine just think of how many people missed God’s blessing through us!  Chadwick Boseman sacrificed himself despite affliction. He used his gift to bless us all. So what is your excuse? 

 

I will not complain any more

As the nation mourns the loss of actor, Chadwick Boseman, we were surprised to learn Boseman endured colon cancer for four years. The takeaway is, He never complained. He continued to worked through the pain and performing at the Highest level of excellence! So many of us lament over little things like finding reasons why not to go to work. But this young man completed seven movies during the darkest part of his life. Several movies as the leading actor which took a lot of time and endurance all while going through chemotherapy and surgery. There's a lesson in  Chadwick Boseman’s death. Before a seed can produce fruit it has to die. I believe his death, becomes a symbolic message for us to view life. Stop complaining. Stop sweating the little things. Don’t give up. Be Resilient and have a willingness to persevere through the pain. Learn to be more grateful. God’s grace is sufficient. His power is made perfect in our weakness (pain). May Chadwick’s life be a living example for us all.

Are you leaking?

Leaks are gradual. One does not know a roof leaks until it rains. The leak go unnoticed until it’s too late. In life, we disregard the warning signs of our leaking souls when we stray from God. Our prayers are shorten, we put off studying the Bible for another day, and we skip church a Sunday or two. It’s when the storms of life affect us do we realize that something is missing. It’s not that God has left us, we have put less emphasis on God. This is the time we seek him - Save me God for the waters come unto my soul (Ps. 69:1). We cannot be foolish in our daily living. At all times we should strive to keep ourselves filled with the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:19-21.) yield completely  to God so that you can be filled with the Holy Spirit. 

Do a new thing in God

You find yourself in a rut. Stuck unable to move forward. The children of Israel were no different. They hated their conditions in Egypt and they were ready to try something new with God. They followed Moses out of Egypt,yet when they faced their first Chasm - the Red Sea, they were ready to go back to deplorable conditions. We make life harder when we take matters into our hands. Life can be easier when you let go and let God be in control. God’s yoke is easy and His burden is light. Decide today to look forward, don’t look back and most importantly let go and let God order your steps.

Trouble lurks every time you step out your house

Every time you step out your house trouble is  lurking. Everywhere you go there is potential chaos. Trouble comes in various forms. Anxiety, danger, disorder, unrest, grief, and even a cluttered life. Whatever the angst, give them to God (1Peter 5:7). There’s no need to fear, The Lord gives strength to his people, the Lord blesses his people with peace.” (Psalm 29:11) Remember, you are protected. God is always standing by! For He Himself is our peace…”  Ephesians 2:14

Everyday may not be perfect but the day always has purpose

This pandemic has altered the lives of people in various ways. No social engagement, working from home or not working at all. Whatever the case don’t lose faith and don’t lose hope. Everyday may not be perfect but the day always has purpose. Do something today to lift up someone who are really hurting.

There are benefits in prayer

All too often we claim to believe in God and the power of prayer. Yet, No sooner than we finish praying our minds divert back to believing we can solve our problems or we doubt If God can fix the problem. Daily prayer is essential.

1. PRAYER develops a relationship with God 

2. PRAYER helps you gain understanding 

3. PRAYER helps you find direction in life

4. PRAYER aligns you with God’s will

There are benefits in prayer. Take time to pray and give thanks daily. 

Encourage yourself even when it hurts

Mornings are getting harder to face. Your mind is flooded with the horrors of past due Bills broke down car, under paid or no job at all. All while enduring a COVID pandemic! You feel abandoned. Asking where is God? Prayers go unanswered. Your thoughts pull you into the abyss of depression. As hard as it may be, during these dark Moments, find the strength to encourage self. How do you encourage and jump-start self in times like these? When I find myself faced with despair Here are a few things I do for self motivation. 

Pray – ask God to pull you from this pit

Praise – find a song to sing unto his name

Gratitude – count blessings one by one

think of how God has covered you during these unprecedented times we are facing. Thank God for where He has brought you from.

With COVID, the mere fact you are not sick or was able to recover from the virus becomes a praise moment. 

Do something that make you happy; that brings you joy. Something that centers you. 

Read a book. Put a puzzle together. Call a friend or family member and lift them up. 

Finally, Take on a spirit like David and celebrate. Dance like David Danced. Find ways to encourage and recapture the joy in your life! Especially during this pandemic! 

 

The favor of God

God’s favor can be described as divine kindness. Many correlate material blessings such as cars, homes, and jobs as Favor from God. I see Favor as protection. An undeserving act of kindness which saved one from a calamity. What has God protected you from? The story of Joseph is an example of God’s favor (Gen. 37:18-36). In spite of all of Joseph’s circumstances and encounters; from near death, to being sold as a slave to prisoner, God was with him and rescued him. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh king of Egypt. That is favor. I can look back over my life and count many times how God’s favor protected me. I should not be here. Favor toward unworthy men or women is also referred to as God’s “grace” – which means “the unmerited favor of God.” What has God protected you from? Why did God let it happen to you in the first place? God don’t get glory from what don’t happen. His favor allows you to glorify and testify of what God did. If it had not been for the Lord’s favor where would you be? 

No matter the world you live in

 

Life can be an arduous journey. Each person’s difficulty is different from the other person’s. Whatever the pain, Faith is what helps us trust God in difficult times. When facing hard times you need bible examples to hold on to. Moses,  like many of us, relied on his understanding opposed to God. Mose learned to trust God when there was no humanly possible way out. David was a mighty man of God who did many sinful things. Regardless of what he did, David did two things he knew how to repent and trust God even when life was not how he pictured it to be. The women with the issue of blood. Despite her pain she took a risk to trust God. The ultimate trust was Shadrach, Meshach & Abednego: trusting God no matter the outcome. We are living in unprecedented times. Livelihoods or in disarray from jobs, housing, food, and COVID is running rampant worldwide. Now more than ever, lean on God’s word. Faith is what helps us trust God in difficult times.

 

Don’t let jealousy block your blessings

Pride and jealousy often go hand in hand. They cause a person to focus on insignificant things while losing focus on their blessings. Miriam was guilty of jealousy. The first sign of pride (ego) is when a person identifies some insignificant fault in others.  Miriam and Aaron talked against Moses because he married an Ethiopian (Num. 12:1). That was not the real reason of the jealousy. The bitterness was “Hasn’t he (God) also spoken through us?” (Num. 12:2). Jealousy causes people to resent others. In this case Miriam appears to resent Moses’s leadership. Jealously causes one to overlook the fact God blessed them with authority too - a prophetess and a priest. Don’t lose focus on what God put in your hand. Each gift or talent is important. Use it according to God’s will. How do we prevent ourselves from suffering Miriam’s dilemma? 

Seek God in every thought and action. Pray for Strength. Be Christ centered, God directed and spirit-minded before you act in all things. 

 Click to Read more on letting go of bitterness 👇🏾

http://ow.ly/qx1Y30qZjW3

A divided house

We are great leaders, counselors and advisors at work. Yet many fail to become kings & queens of their homes. David; the “apple of God’s eye”, great warrior, King and leader failed in this area. He could not manage his own house. To better understand today’s scripture you have to read the back story (2 Sam. Chap. 13-14). David’s inability to reprimand his son and console his daughter promoted another son to take matters into his own hands. David lost control of his family - a divided house. the greatness you exemplify at work need to transfer to your home. Stop trying to fix it yourself or ignoring problems. seek God’s wisdom. A divided house will not stand.

Mad at God

How often have you complained to God because you felt abandoned, or he left you in the midst of chaos opposed to getting you out? That’s what the children of Israel thought. 40 years in the wilderness only to bring us to be killed by giants!  If God bought you out of one situation he will do it again. He will give you what you need to fight the battle. All you have to do is trust him.

God made you a conqueror

God created you to be a conqueror. He said no weapons can form against you will prosper. For some reason you have allowed life  situations to hinder and defeat you. Many have focused on COVID and has allowed this pandemic to create fear in your spirit. When you focus on the problem and not God you will fail every time. Focus on God, make him bigger than your most feared giant!  David did not face Goliath the giant alone, he went up against Goliath in the name of the Lord Almighty (1 Sam. 17:45). Don’t Face your giants alone. let God fight your battles. 

I believe in God, yet my faith wavers

I believe in the power of prayer. I believe God is not the creator of confusion. I believe that God will not give me more than I can bear. I believe God can cause all things to work together for good to those who love God. He is not the author of confusion. In due season all things will work for the greater good of mankind. With all my beliefs I’m having a hard time seeing an end to this chaos that plagues America. The injustice that Blacks face daily. I love God, yet my faith wavers. Lord help my unbelief! 

The blind eye of justice has stirred up anger

Twisting the nose produces blood just as stirring up anger produces strife. The blind eye of justice has stirred up anger. AMERICA has turned a blind eye to the injustice that has come at the hands of the law. Leaders who profess to be Christians, both Black and white ignore the truth. I call upon all who profess Jesus as Lord not to be anxious during these 

tumultuous times but to remember to be in continuous prayer. Let us all do our part. Vote. Speak up speak out but most importantly pray. 

Don’t rejoice when your enemy falls

Society has a bad habit of mocking those they don’t like. Kicking a person when they are down. It seems right that we get the last laugh at the expense of an enemy. It’s only fair, they had no remorse for you right? The Bible tells us not to rejoice when our enemy has fallen. As hard as it will be, it’s our Christian responsibility to love an enemy, and show regard to them (Prov. 25:21-22). 

God said vengeance is His. Allow God to do things in his time. Otherwise, your rejoicing will cause God to turn his wrath away from the enemy (Prov. 24:17-18).

A mother’s devotion is unparalleled to any other

When God created mothers he had in mind someone who was patient, kind, and loving. Ingenious, intuitive, and productive. Her inner beauty is unfading, gentle, and filled with  wisdom. A mother’s devotion is unparalleled to any other. Not only to her children but to her family and those she love. Mothers are special creations whose love runs deep. They are unselfish. She is a nurturing, loving, gentle person, who is willing to sacrifice herself for others. A mother’s love never ends, she is a special gift sent from GOD.  SHE – is your true friend SHE – is MOTHER.  The one you LOVE until the end. 

A Mother's Day poem - link 👇🏾

http://ow.ly/wdGs30qEN4C

Listening to foolish advice is like the blind leading the blind

When people become fearful they don’t think sensibly. They seek foolish counsel, act from emotions all while disregarding sound advice and wisdom. We are witnessing governors and citizens in many states acting irrational by not heeding the warnings of doctors, despite the fact COVID19 cases are rising again. They want to open the Economy. As dismal as the picture appears, continue to pray, use sound advice and proceed with caution. We all are praying for speedy recoveries of people and economy. In the mean time, it’s better to follow wisdom than an old but foolish leader who no longer knows how to heed a warning. Guard your thoughts. Pray. Seek God and be at peace. 

What gifts are you neglecting?

It’s easy to lose focus on being productive for God. We are distracted with doing busy work. Things which delay you from birthing your Godly Vision. God has given us all spiritual gifts (Rom12:6). These gifts are to be used to edify God by way of helping others. What God gift are you neglecting? It’s Time to press the restart button. Stop procrastinating and start producing! Nurture your spiritual gifts, so God can use you to bless others. 

Get recharged

Jesus performed many miracles and preached to thousands. Upon completion, Jesus would often go away alone to pray and recharge his Spirit. We too need recharging. Whatever the task, take time to replenish your spirit. Jesus’ daily communication kept him in perfect harmony with God. Prayer provides answers. It provides guidance. If God leads you to the desert, through constant contact with God will lead you to the water and the shade. Daily talk with God. Pray. Seek His will. Get recharged so you are ready to be a blessing for others.

When life’s burdens get too heavy give the cup to God

There are times in life when burdens become too heavy to bear. Jesus experienced his heaviest burden moment days before being crucified. In the Mount of Olives Jesus was at his wits end. (Luke 33:39-46). Probably at his most human state he feared the burden he faced - death. He asked God to take the cup of death from him (Luke 22:42). When facing life’s burdens, remember to call on the Lord. If it’s God’s will he will take the cup of burden or guide you through just as he did for Jesus.  What burdens are you facing? Don’t face them alone call on the name of Jesus and stand strong in your faith. 

Money and status is worthless, COVID-19 has made us equal

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic life for many was a race to accumulate more money, status, and earthly possessions. Very little effort in a God-directed and God-empowered life. No matter your status, today we are all equal. 

Your money, status, or ethnicity is worthless. COVID-19 has made us all as one. Silver and gold is worthless but you possess the Holy Spirit and the power of prayer. Just as Peter spoke to the lame man (Acts 3:1-9) speak over COVID-19 and any thing that is crippling you. There is power in your tongue! Continue to seek God. Pray for others and the healing of this land. Remember, God is still present even in the chaos. 

View all sides before making a decision

When dealing with a situation, the negative is most often seen before visualizing the positive. We typically do not view all angles first. Our perception often times lead to hasty or incorrect responses.  

These pictures represent one dandelion taken from two different vantage points. To one, the image appears to be taller and to someone else shorter. When facing life’s obstacles do not approach them alone. Look at all perspectives and include God before making a decision. Trust God with all thine heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. 

Through prayer, the negative perception can change just as quickly as a dandelion’s tassels can float away. And God will direct your path. 

Fear begins in the mind

Fear begins in the mind. Things we should  pass to God, we tend to hold on to them. We allow them to linger and grow. Jesus assured us we have peace and not let things trouble our hearts. What are you holding on to? Let go and let God. Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid (John 14:27).

Current life disruptions distracts you from God

It’s easy to operate in the flesh and not the spirit. All it takes is some abnormal situation to disrupt our ‘normal’ way of living. When operating in the flesh you don’t maintain a clear mindset. Brothers and sisters, now more than ever lean more on God’s word. God is always present even when he appears far away. Don’t let this current disruption distract you. Trust more in God and express it through prayer and praise. Lift your eyes unto the hills from whence cometh your help Psalms 121.

During times like these God’s word can bring peace

When distress, fear, and uncertainty, knock on your door, this is the time to draw closer to God. In the midst of confusion try not to lean on your understanding. Pull out your bible or phone. There are bible verses for every scenario in life. The 23 Psalms is a familiar passage one that can help you see God being a caring shepherd during times like these; though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, fear no evil, for God is with you! Take advantage of your smart phone search for bible reference words that describes your need. There is a Verse just for you.

Making sense during uncertain times

Now, more than ever everyone has a sense of uncertainty. Our current situation has many looking at everything but what’s important. My pastor told us not to be distracted. Satan will make believers think that the Lord don’t care. Glory to God! Jesus still cares. Friends we have to stay focused on God. The reality, none of us are secure in this world except with Jesus. So whatever you are facing during these strange uncertain times focus on God. Do not be anxious, for your heavenly Father knows your needs. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness (Matt. 6:31-33).

Trust God in all things

Nowhere in the Bible does it indicate that if you are a child of God, Christian, or believer of the word you are exempt from suffering. Those who trust God will still suffer. God never promised a life free from some pain but he did promise never to leave nor to forsake us. 

Don’t lose faith or hope. For he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)

Facing trying times don’t panic

When facing trying times such as these, we lose it. We hear of mandatory quarantines and see empty grocery shelves we panic. We forget the basic principles of faith; not to walk by sight. The widow at Zarapeth was at what appeared to be her demise during a 3.5 year drought. With only enough flour and oil for one meal she was ready to give up (1 Kings 17:7-24). The Bible gives us plenty examples of how God provides and can use anything or anyone to fulfill his promises. Elijah was sent by God to help the widow. Because of her obedience to God’s word, her supply never ran empty! Yes, our future is uncertain. However, Believers of GOD Fear not, for GOD is with you; be not dismayed. GOD will strengthen you, GOD will provide your needs. Trust his word. stay prayerful. Don’t lose faith. Be encouraged AND encourage others!

Be anxious for nothing

It’s hard to runaway from the daily onslaught of updates regarding the uncertainty of the world today. People who have never felt anxious are being weighed down with fear, doubt, and not sure what’s next! In times like these, turn to God’s word and not our understanding. Be encouraged! Take time daily to seek God, pray, and most importantly read the word. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6-7).

God is not listening to our prayers

God warned Solomon he would send pestilence to the lands if people would not humble themselves, seek his face and turn from their wicked ways (2 Chron. 7:11-13). Is the Coronavirus an example of God’s warning? God also promised Solomon he would heal the land (2 Chron. 7:14). People of God it’s time to take heed. God is not hearing the prayers of the church. It’s time for us all who are called by the name of (God/Yeshua/Messiah) to humble ourselves, pray, seek his face and turn from our wicked ways. If we do this, God said his eyes and ears will be open and he would be attentive to our prayers (2 Chron. 7:15). It’s time for humility. Praying. Seeking. Trusting God’s word.

Now is the time to pray

America’s state of emergency has everyone shook up! During this crisis  your faith will be tested. Trust in God’s word no matter how unstable the situation may appear. Now is the time God expects us to be like the children of Israel  - trust him. Stand firm. Walk in faith. Pray. Use common sense. 

Its never too late to work on your Spiritual relationship with Christ.  

+ Never-ending prayer [conversation]

+ Seeking to improve self spiritually

+Trust more in every word

+In return God makes  his presence known through the Holy Spirit. 

Don’t give up no matter how hard the journey. Trust more in God and express it through prayer and praise. Lift your eyes unto the hills from whence cometh your help Psalms 121. 

Think of Job during the Coronavirus

The world is encountering a Job like moment. Coronavirus has affected many indirectly and directly. How are you coping with it? Job lost everything; his family and wealth(Job 1:13-18). He faced his greatest calamity of painful bodily pain for months (Job 2:4-7). Job handled the initial attack well. He mourned and grieved but never questioned God’s sovereignty. Over time he did doubt, he even questioned God. The lesson for us all to remember don’t lose faith. Don’t doubt the power of God. Despite all Job endured, God’s hands was still covering him. Be safe. Stay prayerful. Continue to praise God. Don’t lose hope.

Having tenacity for God

Daily, have a passion for Christ an energetic attitude and the tenacity to trust God. Hold fast to God’s word. Keep the faith. When reality don’t align with what you see persevere. When doubt seeps into your mind Fine the inner strength to press forward. Pray. Never grow weary. Seek God’s wisdom. Ask God to order your steps. May his words be a light to guide the way. Have the spirit of an eagle, never surrender or give up to the size of your inabilities. Learn to Wait Upon The Lord. He Shall Renew Your Strength.