Pebble of Gratitude

READ: Deuteronomy 8:12-14

Read:  Deuteronomy 8

 “Beware that you do not forget the Lord your God by not keeping His commandments, His judgments, and His statutes which I command you today,. Deuteronomy 8:11

 

Good Morning!

If you think your problems are terrible, be assured that there is always someone who is going through a worse situation than you.

Frequently, individuals concentrate on their circumstances, obstacles or deficiencies instead of expressing gratitude to God for their blessings.

A man once had a pebble, and there is a tale about it. To constantly recall the abundant blessings, Grace, and Mercy of God, the man kept a stone in his pocket as a memento. Every time he picked up his keys or found loose change, he made sure to express his gratitude to God instead of complaining about his hardships.

Remember to always take a moment to express gratitude to God for the gift of a new day, good health, sustenance, and shelter. Many people get frustrated with life when their desires are not fulfilled, and they may start feeling abandoned by God.

 

In Deuteronomy chapter 8, it is explicitly stated to never forget the Lord. The purpose of this chapter was to refresh the memory of the Israelite children regarding their ordeal throughout the 40-year expedition. Their "stone in the pocket" moment occurred when they reached this chapter. The children were expected to heed all of God's commands and thoughtfully consider each one.

 

 There is a missing ingredient in the lives of so many individuals. It seems that individuals do not struggle with expressing their desires to God, yet they often make justifications for why they neglect to express gratitude towards God.

 

Try shifting your focus to giving more thanks and praise to the Lord. Make sure to take a moment to express your gratitude to God, no matter how hectic your schedule may be. Express gratitude to God during everyday activities like showering, brushing your teeth, or waiting in traffic. Alternatively, you can cultivate a gratitude-centered mindset by carrying a pebble in your pocket, serving as a constant reminder to praise and thank God.

 

Prayer
Father God I am thankful for all your blessings.  I will praise and thank you more! in Jesus name. Amen.

Shampoo & Shoe Polish: The Rebirth

From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised. Psalms 113:3

For days, all eyes were glued on Reality TV, watching the rescue of 33 miners of Copiapo, Chile who were buried alive in a copper mine. We saw interviews from family members, distant relatives, and friends all hoping for a safe resurrection. Nearer the day of rising came the men asked for special items. The request where typical, tooth paste, brush, and socks however there were two items that caught my attention; shampoo & shoe polish. When asked, these men indicated they wanted to present themselves looking their best to their families. Wow, 69 days buried alive, not knowing if they would ever survive and what was most important to them was their appearance.

I perceived this action as a new beginning, cleansing, purging from a death back to life. Or could it be a sacrificial offering of themselves not only to family but to the state, country, world and most importantly God. Chile is Christian community which takes its religion seriously. So seriously most wore t-shirts inscribed with In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him Psalms 95:4. This miracle made way for two miners to give their life to Christ. "The people say, 'It is a miracle. Thank you, God."

There was a time in our society where people wanted to present themselves to God looking their best. Often a family would own one good church going outfit which was adorned during praise and worship time! No, your outward show is not a prerequisite for a person to experience a revival. What I am saying is we need find our own way to present ourself to God through word action or deed. For example, live by the old saying “Cleanliness is next to Godliness”. Are your actions, words, or deeds, good in God’s eye sight? Are you praising him for the many blessing that are taken for granted? As stated by Rev., Dr. Stafford J. Wicker, “We are all blessed with more than two pair of shoes in our closets, a tooth brush, transportation, and food on our tables. There are people all over the world who would love to take any of our used items and would be happy!”

There is no right or wrong answer just food for thought. One has to believe that 33 men did not take they rescue for granted. They found it imperative to be clean and a blessing from God to be alive. This was the one way they could show their gratitude to God by requesting Shampoo & shoe polish!


Tigner Rand

Hero strikes twice to help others

Photo: Vino Wong - AJC

Our God is an awesome God! He is continuously performing miracles daily for us to see. For the doubters and nay-sayers here is an article "Hero strikes twice" that confirms that. Sure you can say it was luck, or this man was in the right place at the right time. However, according to Ali Robertson, not only has he been a Good Samaritan twice in two weeks he has also experienced many encounters in 53 years. Mr. Roberson states that "I just react."

Take time to watch God at work daily at work, home, school, city, and state He never stops performing tiny wonders. Just open your eyes and you will see them!

Also, make yourself available to be used as an instrument you never know when it is your time to be a blessing! Each morning I say this little prayer: Father God, if I can be a Blessing to someone today through word, action or deed put me in the place where you want me to be!

May this be an inspiration for you today!

click to read article of Ali Johnson - Atlanta Journal Constitution

Tigner J.

Tracks of Life



Photo: 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

Train tracks can be seen as a metaphor of life. The locomotive has rails to guide and keep it on course, a conductor who navigates the heavy load through turns, storms, tunnels, over bridges, as well as the darkness of night. Though rare, it is not uncommon for a train or part of its load to derail causing major delays in reaching the destination. Despite the fact that there is a disruption, the tracks are still in place which gives opportunity to clean up and continue the journey.

The same is applicable in the training of our children or young impressionable minds. If we guide and teach them in the way they should go based on a good foundation of life, God, Biblical and moral principles they will not stray far from it. The bible is the tool which is needed to develop and lay the tracks for life in which they should pass through. Sure some will stray off course however God, the conductor can pick up, dust off and place them back on the right track pointed in the precise direction.

This picture reminds me of how the Tracks of Life is a journey which can be a long and lonely expedition. However, preparation and training from Sunday School teachers, parents, educators and adults all can assist in molding and shaping lives so they cannot depart far from God’s foundation.

You may feel that your training is in vain don’t give up and don’t let go. Just as the Little Engine who thought he could so can you! It took time for the Little Engine to build up speed for pulling the heavy load so like wise don’t stop teaching. Seize every moment to develop your children so they to can stay the course of life. Stay in encouraged, keep them covered with your prayers and in time, God the Father will not allow them to stray far from the truth!

Tigner J.

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

What advice do you live by?

How has it affected your life?



Was it good or bad advice?


I would love to hear your comments
Please respond



Tigner
http://thesoulsremedy.blogspot.com/

The Good Samaritan

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.
Luke 10:25-37

Willing to help others

Daily we have encounter homeless and displaced families. In some cases, these are our neighbors who should be loved and cared for. Nevertheless, it is safe to say we are not moved with compassion to heal their pain. 

I am aware it is impossible to aid and assist all however we can be Christ like and find an individual to lend a hand based on our abilities.


The Good Samaritan story is a powerful illustration of how people should meet the need of others. Jesus told the story of a man who was jumped and left for dead. The man traveled the road of Maale Addumin which was a noted location where thieves and robbers often attacked travelers. There were two men; a Priest who crossed the road when he saw the injured man and a Levite who dismissed the fact the man was in need of help. It was the Samaritan who went near and was moved with pity and kindness to bandage the man’s wounds.


When faced with danger and pit falls in life learn to remove bias opinions lend a helping hand to the  disenfranchised. Find it in your heart to live as scripture state: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind; and your neighbor as yourself. Luke 10:25. 

Put aside prejudice thoughts and show love toward one another by sacrificing time, money and energy to heal the spiritual, physical. and emotional needs of others.


Be as the Good Samaritan show mercy to neighbors and friends.

If there is a need fill it
If there is a hurt heal it.


Tigner

Life is in Control until the Rapids Come

Boast not of tomorrow; for you know not what a day may bring forth Proverb 27:1

Repeatedly, people have a tendency of assuming normalcy in life simply because of daily routines which often lead to the perception that their life is in control. Regardless of how much one may attempt to go through existence thinking all is organized the days and weeks are pre-planned, at any given moment one incident can alter the most minute or rudimentary routine: car trouble, God forbid a fire, accident, severe illness or even death. An unpredictable occurrence can alter the state of your mind and often times cause your faith to waver.

In 1998 I stared death in the face when a friend and I took some Scouts Whitewater rafting down the Oconee River. A beautiful spring day, everything going as planned with nothing to fear. There were experienced guides on hand as well as we both were skilled swimmers. ‘I’ felt no danger and believed it would be a great adventure for these young men ages 12-16. For you who may not know the Oconee River was the site used during the 1996 Olympics for Whitewater rafting which is rated at a Class III and IV rapids. What that means is the water may include small to medium waves, small drops, some rocks, but no considerable danger.

There is a point down the river where our guide decided to have fun by creating a “Left over Right” where the raft flips or rolls side over side causing the craft to perform a 360. Envision the craft rolling starboard side first with all passengers staying seated under water and resurfacing again provided all do their part. Well we did not follow directions some held on others bailed out. My years of swimming and training meant nothing when the water’s under current consumed me so long where I thought life was over. The swiftness of the under current creates a vacuum affect that will keep a swimmer from breaking free. For about 60 seconds underwater (it seemed longer) I saw my life flash before me while trying to break loose. I was in sheer panic mode!

How did I regain composure, find a way to re-emerge and float down the river? I have to say it was the Spirit of the Lord that saved me. Though the water held me back, my weakness kept me from swimming nevertheless the grace and mercy of the Lord gave me an opportunity to thank Him as I lay prostrate and floated down the river. One thing my mind continuously rewinds is the beauty and splendor of the river hearing my heart beat underwater and thanking God for allowing me the opportunity to survive.

As you trek forward in life be thankful for every second of the day because we can’t see the storms which are right around the corner. Pray for yourself as well as others. Encourage one another; give thanks for the little things in life: your family, their smiles, Or a sunset that paints the evening sky with burnt orange and amber colors that give way to the sparkling star diamonds of a midnight blue sky.

Take time now to witness a sun rise against a light blue canvas splattered with floating pink cotton candy clouds and thank God for every moment of your life. By doing these this you are preparing yourself for those unexpected eruptions in life because when your life flashes before your eyes you will not have time to think of praying. Remember tomorrow is not promised.






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

Praying for all the Wrong Reasons

The Holy Bible states we should pray for the desires of our hearts and for years I did just that. In spite of endless requests my efforts were like a dog chasing its tail; life was a vicious circle.

 Comedian, Steve Harvey  summed it up quite eloquently stating he too prayed for all the wrong reasons “praying and telling God the way he wanted his life to transpire.” It was not until he sought to allow God’s will be done did he begin to receive opportunities he never would have envisioned: Two book deals, nationwide radio syndication and now the host of Family Feud. Contrary to our belief that is how many of us pray, we tell the All Mighty what we want, how we want it, along with how it is to be packaged and delivered. Are mortals really that foolish? We can’t out think or create God and there is nothing new under the sun! So why do we attempt to enclose God into our minuscule scheme of existence?

After numerous years of ‘selfish’ request my prayers revolved from my vision to seeking and asking God to teach me His ways, show me His path and lead me to His truth Psalm 25:4-5. My testimony today is that I FINALLY got in line with God and He has reviled new innovation unto me. The lesson learned was by asking to be in His will and not my own made the difference of a continued journey laced with struggle and confusion to now guided lights under each footstep.

What we believe to be important to us is not important to God so once you pray seeking the will of God you will realize what priority is. From my letting go and letting God, He has bestowed a desire as well as showed me things I’ve never believed would come to pass. The shackles on my mind were unlocked freeing my confidence to receive again a willing spirit to revitalize writing. One of the biggest obstacles I had to hurdle was the years doubting myself along with being tricked by Satan I was wasting my time putting pen to paper on what the Holy Spirit disclosed. Prayer was the key to the new lease on life and desire of my heart!

I Challenge each of you who are praying but not attaining some desires of your heart to continue  praying. Don’t be discouraged, be of good cheer and make sure your request to be inline with God the Father. Ask to be in his Will, seek His guidance to lead you on the right path this will make way for a clearer vision of what and where you should be. One thing for sure is if you earnestly do as I suggested God will speak to your heart and show you the way and will give the desires of your heart. Begin the process of a new you today!


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

Rekindle the Fire

Photo: Tigner J.

Within each of us is a yearning to reach or obtain an objective with the intention of generating a sense of accomplishment. This sensation is the fervor that motivates individuals through out life. For a large number of people this drive is vibrant and flourishing while a multitude of others the flame has died.
I’m sure you have worked tirelessly striving to reach that goal though at every turn there seems to be stumbling blocks and closed door opportunities. As the hands of time tick an individual begins to question their ability along with questioning God. Please be reminded, when you doubt yourself and interrogate God’s work you are giving victory to Satan.


Doubting is nothing less than a lack of confidence. Regain your self-assurance and believe again! This is the first step to having certainty in you once more. While in prison Paul wrote to the people of Philippi they could do all things through Christ that strengthens them Philippians 4:13. Paul did not allow the solitary confinement of prison walls steal his belief in the power of Christ. Don’t allow your mind to become a prison that chains you to uncertainty and faithlessness.


God did not create a failure so remove the negative; rekindle that fire in your heart, dust off tarnished dreams and talents. Uncover that passion and force that once motivated you. Start believing in YOU again because God is not through with you yet.


Christ Jesus told the multitude, “if you can believe all things are possible to him who believes Mark 9:14-29


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

Benevolence from the Heart

There is a friend of mine who finds joy daily from giving and blessing others. I have seen him hand over car keys with no questions asked, bestow money to people for no apparent reason, motivational speaker for young people, as well as enhanced the skill set of athletes which has enabled them to compete at the next level. 

I have observed him create jobs, businesses and opportunities most would over look. He is continuously seeking to bless someone without expecting to get anything back. If you where initially told of the series of troubles and annoyances besetting this brother without hesitation you would not believe it possible for a man to demonstrate such a happy and giving spirit. As God as my witness, he is! My brother is immensely blessed! He gives blessings and God blesses him in return!

A few days a go I hit that preverbal wall we all collide with from time to time which can cause a person to fall into depression or pull out the party favors for a pity celebration. Thank God for encouragement and friends because my dear comrade called at the right time. “What can I bless you with today” were the words out of his mouth. “What do you need that can help you reach your goal”. An Immediate smile came because I knew his offer was sincere. “If you need something let me know I’m here” and before hanging up he stated “continue writing, your words are blessing people.” This brother demonstrates the Chinese Proverb daily: “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime”

Jesus told and demonstrated that by hard work we must help the weak and it is more blessed to give than to receive Acts 20:35. Do we perform random acts of blessings to friends, family, or strangers? Do we actually ask loved ones what can I bless you with today? We stand accused, talking the talk however not walking the walk. A lot reading this professes to be Christians but how many really attempt to be Christ like, follow his example and really share or impart blessings to others? Blessings are not always in the monetary form. It could be cutting a neighbors yard, typing a resume, take a loved one to the doctor, doing away with a suit, a car you don’t drive, or cooking a meal for a needy family.

As hard as it may be to believe we don’t own any possessions: house, car, clothes, gadgets, toys, and even our bodies don’t belong to us! They all belong to God the Father. It is better for us to give than it is to receive! A co-worker told me God had laid on his heart to give away a brand new suit which been worn only a few times. First reaction was being reluctant on departing with the garment even though it was not being worn. The Spirit moved allowing him to give it away. Days later he received a call from another person offering him a substantial amount of money just because God told him to. Remember God loves a cheerful giver! When a man gives from the heart, and not grudgingly God will make all grace and blessings abound toward them. 2 Cor. 9: 7-8 All blessings don’t come back the way we want them however God know what you need and will provide the source for us to receive it right on time!

Luke speaks of those who give only to individuals who love them as well as persons looking for something in return Luke 6:30-36 He continues with the correct way of blessing others; Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Luke 6:38

What is God asking you to do? Who can you bless today with your time, talents or treasures? Listen to your heart and take heed and remember every blessing given or received does not have to be dollar signs.

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

It Could Have Been Worse

“I was going through some changes in my life cussin and complainin every night tellin God the way he treatin me ain't right and how I don’t deserve this then a voice somewhere came to me and said you have the audacity  to fix your mouth to disrespect how soon we forget.” 


Sound like something you have said or heard before right? In part, these are lyrics from an artist who has been dubbed a “social minded singer”, Lyfe Jennings.


While listening to this song I was touched from the raw passion of the message. It also gave me a new found respect for the creative pen of this Platinum-selling R&B singer. The song’s title is It Could Have Been Worse, though it’s a secular song there’s a spiritual message for all which illustrate what people are experiencing daily. Folk face pain and frustration which desensitize them to the point of disconnection from the life line Jesus the Christ. Every so often we need a little nudge to bring us back to a humbling state. This song is that jolt.


I want you to please click the link It Could Have Been Worse listen, to the message and feel the emotion. I want to hear back from you please reply with your testimony.


“It coulda been worse, you coulda lost everything shoulda lost everything but somebody’s watching you and gave you another chance yeah!”

Tigner J

The Presence of the Lord

On occasion believers and all the time non-believers question if God is ever present. Do people see the Spirit of the Lord or a liken image of Him? Just as Jesus visited the men on the road to Emmaus, (Luke 24:13-35) I boldly say yes He still makes Himself visible at the right time and place.

Several years a go my mother suffered a stroke. During her hospitalization she encountered a living hell that no one would want to endure. There was one occasion doctors had to rush her into emergency surgery do to internal bleeding where she had lost four pints of blood. In the course of recovery I was granted visitation in ICU. Nurses stated she is in a great deal of pain and will not response. What begin as moans and groans soon became coherent words. Though she never called my name we talked all while telling me she was in pain. Out of know where she blurted out “I’m not ready to go”. Of course I told her she could not. Her response brought a chill over me that I now know and acknowledge as the Holy Spirit being present. “Tell that man at the door I’m not ready to go!” There was no one in the room although my mother insisted there is a man in a white robe and she, at this moment did not want to go with him.

The presence of the Lord was there He could be felt in the atmosphere. Though I didn’t see him in the physical form with out a doubt He was there in the spirit. There are those who would argue that I was imagining or it was my mother’s drugs which had her hallucinating. As stated my mother had lost blood, during the surgery she encountered another mild stroke and because of that doctors choose not to give any pain or hypertension medication. She was enduring unimaginable pain all while the Holy Spirit was nearby.

After that celestial visit it took years for me to fully understand that God is always present and all along it has been me locking Him out although I was asking Him to come in. Time and again we doubt that God hear our cries, know our pain or is not present when he is most needed. Is it easy to ask God into your life? Yes but the Trinity will not and cannot come in UNLESS we unlock our hearts, change our mindset, increase our faith and invite God into our live. Remember it’s a continuous effort – a work in progress; pray without ceasing, praising His name during the trials and never giving up. Satan is a liar and the truth is not in him for causing confusion in our minds.

David said in Psalm 139: 7 Where could I go from your Spirit? Or where could I flee from Your presence? Blessed assurance, God is always present he will never leave us or forsake us.

Tigner J.
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God Loves Golf, He Allows Mulligans

 God is able to blot out your sins and He will not remember them anymore Isaiah 43.25 

In golf sometimes a golfer is given a second chance which allows the player to do a particular move or action again. Mainly, the shot will not be tallied on the score card. As humans we make mistakes error, because we are no where near perfect. So it stands to reason that in life we should be able to ask for second chances however they are hardly granted.

In the eyesight of God he allows us to have Mulligans. God’s second chances are called forgiveness. Forgiveness is an opportunity to be exonerated from a sin. Many Christians feel that despite the fact you humbly asked forgiveness God still holds that sin over your head. Unlike man, the Heavenly Father does not. He clearly states that once we ask He forgets. God does not punish us for all our sins; He does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For His unfailing love toward those who fear Him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. Psalm 103: 10-12. God is able to blot out your sins and He will not remember them anymore Isaiah 43.25 Only humans have the problem with letting go or forgiving.

Let us take advantage of the Mulligans in life take it to the Father who can really allow a do over. So as it is written "For if you forgive men when they sin against you your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But, if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Mat 6:14-15
Remember God does forgive and allow second chances in life. Ask for yours.

Tigner J. 

Your PATIENCE can be a Virtue

There is an old saying, I’m sure we have all heard in our life time; Patience is a virtue. When hearing this quote one has to ask what is patience? It is the quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, or irritation. Now I don’t know about you but it has taken a life time for me attain a few of these qualities. It is still a work in progress. Now virtue is moral excellence; goodness; righteousness conformity of one's life and conduct to moral and ethical principles; uprightness; rectitude. Many of you possess attributes of virtue however your misfortunes, pains, or irritation impedes your development of patience. Realize, there is still hope with some effort you can develop endurance which will give you the strength to handle storms, run life’s races, or climb rough mountains. The reward will be for those who wait on the LORD which shall renew your strength; you shall mount up with wings like eagles, you shall run and not be weary, you shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

Why is it hard for people to gain patience or find it a challenge to wait through the storm for their break through? One quick simple answer is society has conditioned us to believe that we can get what we want instantaneously, with no wait. We see and hear the subliminal messages daily from various marketing campaigns; why one should not go home and cook a wholesome meal when you can stop by the grocer and pick up an eight piece meal for only $8.99! Or how about complete meals in a bag that can be cooked in a microwave in less than twenty minutes! Don’t leave out instant coffee, ATM machines, and our favorite fast food restaurants. Personally, I love home cook meals (smile).

How does this affect our living habits and Christian beliefs? It desensitizes us to the point that we expect and look for all aspects of our lives to respond the same way. When we pray we want an answer instantly. You’ve prayed for a break through, jobs, answers from doctors, friends and family members and when there is no response, many have gone as far as to demand God to quickly answer our prayers and when our patience has grown short due to no reply we find it quite appalling causing many to abandon the Father. Remember God is the Father He does not operate on a time schedule regardless as to how bad the situation may appear. According to the word be patient and wait on the Lord; He will turn to you and hear your cry. Psalm 40:1

James 1:3-6 sums up what it takes to strengthen our patience. Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubt is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
One analogy I often quote to describe time and patience; it’s like watching a tree grow you can’t expect to plant a tree today and be capable to bare fruit tomorrow. The Tree has to go through the germination process, sprout, grow, mature and then produce. That course of action takes many years. In comparison, we may have to go through many trials, tribulations, and wavering faith before reaching a level of patience before one can yield fruit or reach the prize!
To bring this story closer to life another great illustration on patience is of a man who watched a caterpillar as it headed into the next development stages of life. This man quietly waited as the transformation of change took place. When the metamorphosis was complete the new butterfly began its break through the chrysalis. Struggling to free its wings the man felt compelled to assist by gently cutting away the casing which liberated the butterfly. Thinking he has done a great deed this man’s impatience created a disaster, the butterfly cannot fly. For you see the great effort it takes a butterfly to break out its part of building wing strength which will enable flight.
Don’t be like the impatient man, Learn from the butterfly by fighting through your obstacles while growing in faith. Make your virtue a necessity; seek God through prayer which will allow you to make the best of a difficult or unsatisfactory situation. You can win in the end keeping your faith growing patience and continue trusting in God!

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

The True Vine in a Dry season

Good vines bring forth good fruit

I am the vine, you are the branches: He that abides in me and me in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without me you can do nothing. John 15:5

Dry seasons of life

For many seasons my life was stagnant. There was drought, No growth and no signs of relief - so it appeared.

 No matter the direction of choice, every road was a dead end. It was one disappointment after another followed by frustration and discuss. I searched for my purpose revisited my passion(s), and even questioned why I was here. For each inquiry was a negative response despite the fact the HOLY SPIRIT was speaking to me all along. Setbacks can cause a person to feel like a failure, especially when you loose connection with Christ which later leads to questioning God. As soon as uncertainty synchronizes in ones spirit, Christians (people) have a tendency to withdraw and detach from God.

Jesus the true vine

Jesus spoke of Himself as the ‘True Vine’ in John 15. If Jesus is really in our lives as the true vine only we can hold ourselves back from growth.
Sure a person can make a case that by their own doing life is progressing and increasing dividends. Please realize by excluding God in your plans you limit your potential growth! When storms come in your life you will not be able to withstand them alone. As a result of not having a direct link to the ‘true vine’ - Jesus Christ - you are doing nothing. Your personal growth and upward mobility will surely fall just as the man who built his house on sand; without a foundation it could not withstand the storms Luke 6:48-49.

Jesus Christ confirmed this by saying “If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” As a result of getting a ‘direct hook-up’ with Christ you have to abide in Him as well as His word.

 There is no doubt trials and tribulations will come again. But let it also be known, the closer we walk with Jesus, the more Satan attempts to tamper with our weaknesses. However by walking in faith God will see us through! Hallelujah!

Find your connection to the true vine; Christ will not lead us astray. ...If God be for us who can be against us?” Romans 9:31.

All Mighty and merciful Father,
Thank you for sending your Son Jesus the Christ allowing us the opportunity to be redeemed from all our sins and have a chance to receive eternal life! Thank you for being the True Vine the branch that can produce and reproduce goodness for eternity. Lord I pray asking that you will rally around all readers connecting them to your vine and enabling them to grow spiritually. Allow their branches to bear fruit: Fruits of love, compassion, honesty, faith, creativity and helpfulness. May each reader find their purpose and to be in your will. We can do all things through you Lord as long as we stay connected to you. May these words be received by you and may blessings fall upon all that read. These things I pray in Jesus Christ name, Amen.

Tigner Rand 

The Desires of your Heart

Desires of the Heart

There is a man named Blake who works hard for his family of four. He manages to live a modest life. He is a caring, loving and giving man who would lend a hand or give his last dollar to any person under the pretense of getting a blessing in return. 

On paper, Blake believes in the Holy Trinity: The Father Son and the Holy Spirit, occasionally attends church and only pray when he has trouble. As the sands of time flowed in his life, he begin worrying about evildoers and corrupt people,  who don't believe in God. They are happier and financially secure while Blake’s life spirals closer to a dismal end. He is just two pay checks away from being without a roof over his head.

A Generous Heart

There is Joyce, a woman of God with eight children from 10 to 28 years old. Since the passing of her husband Joyce has managed to maintain her house. She has kept the family together, food on the table, bills paid, and put three children through college. Joyce is always full of joy with a kind word to say everyday. Joyce is a generous person, giving from the heart with no false pretense. This woman’s cup continuously overflows with blessing for her and others.

Envious Heart

Two people who both accept Jesus Christ as being true. Both are caring and giving individuals. Blake has a small family while Joyce has a large brood. Why is it such a contrasting difference in their blessings? One would assume that Joyce would be the one struggling, disgusted, and questioning why her prayers have not been answered on the other hand she is happy blessed and highly favored. Based on this situation there are loads of legitimate discussion points we could focus on: Pride, Self-righteousness, being Humble, giving from the heart, trust, faith and the list can go on. But for this topic of dialogue I’m focusing on not being envious.

We all know someone who depicts the lives of Blake and Joyce. It’s also safe to say many of us may portray some of these attributes albeit the good or bad traits. By all means there is yet another sect of people who will argue the point that God has not given you your desires, yet you keep knocking, seeking, all while trying to get an answer just as Jesus told us in Matt. 7:7. Often times God don’t always make sense on how and when he will answer our prayers and desires. We have to implement what David wrote “Trust in the Lord, delight yourself in him and commit your way to the Lord.” Psalms 37:3-7. Reading these verses David emphasized the word trust several times which tells us trusting in God is the key to your desires. Remember trust is a form of faith. However to get the wishes we also need to rest, commit, don’t worry and wait patiently on the Lord. By doing this God shall bring to pass the desires of your heart.

The question you need to ask yourself is “Can you not be envious of men who “have it all” and not believers? Can you not worry about the evil doer nor be envious because the day will come when they are cut down like grass Psalms 37:1. The solution is for us to REALLY become committed, trusting, and not worrying. But most important patiently on God by aligning ourselves with Christ by asking to be in his Will as well as learn to TRUST Him. 

A Sharing Heart 

A sharing heart allows you to give ungrudging to those less fortunate your:

• Time 
• Talent
• Treasures 

Regardless to your current state - Blake or Joyce - maintain a praising heart to God during the excellent and unpleasant times. Have a caring heart, and love others as you love yourself. No matter what render your heart to God and he will bless you with the desires of your heart.

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

When God appears far away I questioned him

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?   Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? Psalms 22:1

Not too long ago I questioned my faith at every crossroad. Was the Holy Spirit with me or was I home alone. Though I professed my faith in Christ my mind played tricks on me. I questioned God. Lord my life does not make sense. Doubt found a small breech in my foundation of faithfulness. I wanted to give up.

When God appears far away

David was hand picked by God. He slayed Goliath, and was chosen the next heir to Saul. David was a man after God’s own heart. Despite all God’s bestowed blessings David encountered emotional despair.  Why Lord do you stand far off?  Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?  Psalms 10:1

Did God forsake me? No. Though it appeared that God was far from David as heaven is to earth he confirmed that God was still in control. In you our ancestors put their trust they trusted and you delivered them Psalms 22:4.

As the ocean tides ebb and flow I learned to trust in God’s word no matter how unstable a situation may appear. Every day is confirmation God has blessed me. When bad days rise God expects me to rely on my faith in Him. To dig through tribulation, trust in his word. As with David my valley is only temporary.

The paradigm shift

I focused on these steps as I developed my Spiritual relationship with Christ.  

+ Never-ending prayer [conversation]

+ Seeking to improve self spiritually

+Trusting more in every word

+In return God made his presence known through the Holy Spirit

Spirit over Flesh

When operating in the flesh I was frustrated and unable to maintain a clear mindset. As I leaned more on His word it was evident He never left me nor forsaken me. God was always present.

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.  In exchange God will fulfill his word by making the expedition just a bit easier. Keep the faith and allow God to complete his masterpiece which is you!

Let us pray:
Lord, in the name of Jesus I doubt that you are with me. I am questioning your love, joy and peace. Help me trust in your word. Remove my disbelief. Make your word clear so it will lead me in to trusting you more. Give me the strength not to give up and continue to grow into the warrior you created me to be. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. No weapons can form against me if I trust and obey your word.  Lord Bless every reader of your word. This I pray in your son Jesus Christ name. - Amen

You Can’t Change History… with an * Asterisk

Reggie Bush gives back Heisman Trophy

Yet again college sports are tainted with misdoing, corruption and illegal dealings. Because of these ill will endeavors, The University of Southern California has decided to rub out the legacy of former running back Reggie Bush.
“The school will remove jerseys, photographs and all awards that Bush won during his career. They have also decided to remove Bush’s Heisman Trophy that sat next to other USC greats such as O.J. Simpson, Matt Leinart, Carson Palmer, Marcus Allen, and Charles White.”What ever the unethical circumstances, man cannot change history or put an asterisk in books to notate an amendment and think that is a fix all to a predicament. Is there a better way to deal with wronged occurrence? Could it be a form of pride, betrayal or an opportunity to let people know man can do as he pleases and everything will be alright? Regardless the fact, calculated steps are taken to change the past by notating and taking away metals and awards remember the event/task was done and no man can take that away.

Let me be the first to say the thought has crossed my mind if I could only recapture a moment in time and had resources to persuade times past to allow me to rewind life I would do it! There are a few stops I would have to make: my high school days (to right all the wrongs), Jim Crow, The Holocaust, premature death of love ones (I never knew), world wars, and Slavery. As far fetched as this ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty fantasy is why does man continuously try to change history with a swift action of a pen? My message today is for us to not to repeat history; not to debate how, why, or to whom these asterisk notations in sports history tend to lean toward but to take a look how God dealt with situations like this in the Bible.

The story of David and Bathsheba, 2Samuel 11 is a biblical depiction of David, who was a man after God’s own heart, tried to erase history (sin). As the story goes, David saw a beautiful woman bathing and later found out it was Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah. David sent messengers to get her. She came and he slept with her. (She purified herself from her uncleanness.) Then she went back home. The woman conceived got pregnant. In David’s attempt to put an asterisk in History he placed Uriah in the front line of the war where he would surely be struck down and die. As expected Uriah died and David moved Bathsheba into his house where she gave birth to a son. God was displeased with the actions David did. God made it clear that David’s measures to right a wrong would not go unpunished first by the death of child.
2Samuel 12:11-23 In spite of this God is a forgiving father! He later blessed David with a new son named Solomon.

In life, we have all fallen short of the Glory of God through sin. Many don’t realize it but God’s desire for us all is healing and restoration. What ever your burdens are you have attempted to erase and place an asterisk by remember the way to receive restoration and remove the blemishes is through the Son of God the Prince of Peace, Jesus the Christ. Don’t allow pride, guilt, or the power of your mind keep you from being forgiven. Take time today and humble yourself, ask God to forgive you. If you don’t know what to say just repeat the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Tigner J.- The Thought Provoker

God got it under control

When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider:
God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, a man cannot discover anything about his future. Ecclesiastes 7:14

Photo: Tigner J.

“Where did all the blue skies go? Oil wasted on the ocean fish full of mercury, Ah things ain’t what they use to be. Over and over you can be sure there will be sorrow but you will endure. Where there's a flower there's the sun and the rain Oh and its wonderful there both one in the same.“


Throughout our existence we are confronted with good and bad situations. Marvin Gaye and Frankie Beverly both duly noted life’s balance through song which enlighten us; people can’t have good without bad or joy without pain. Marvin’s cry for Mercy along with Frankie’s acceptance of Joy & Pain they are both one in the same. God also made it clear through Solomon in this scripture no matter what come to pass in living be happy during the good as well as the bad. How we choose to deal with them is entirely up to us.


Consider Job, who God stated “No one in the world is like him! He is a man of integrity: He is decent, he fears God, and he stays away from evil. And he still holds on to his principles.” Job 2:3 Job was a wealthy man, in all aspects was very proud and happy man who in a blink of an eye lost everything; family, including seven sons and three daughters, money, livestock. Job was bankrupt in today’s equation of worth. Despite the fact he faced misfortune in such great magnitude Job did not sin or blame God for doing anything wrong, he tried to find the balance between good and bad but most importantly he could not determine his future. With an attempt to put this in prospective in our lives I don’t think the average man could have withstood any lost of this enormity and find himself standing, not complaining, questioning God, and most definitely not be happy.


Misfortune should teach us to consider the fact as we are paid a visit of various stages of “good and evil” events we need to be reminded that no matter what tomorrow my bring God got it under control. The pain and weeping may endure for night or season but joy will come in the morning.


Be encouraged don’t give up the good fight and remember to pray as well as pray for others.


Tigner J.

Deniece Williams- God Is Amazing

You are a Leader! (insert your name here)

If you don’t like my leading then you lead – Benjamin Hooks

If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully – Romans 12: 7-9

Team Leader

Yes you are a leader

Webster’s dictionary defines a Leader as a person who guides or directs over an army, or political group. Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart was quoted “Outstanding leaders go out of their way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it's amazing what they can accomplish.”

A large number of people (me included) have leadership traits but choose not to seize the opportunity. Despite the fact we enhance the self-esteem of others and direct them to do immeasurable tasks! This is an attribute of a leader.

Biblical leaders

The Bible depicts many great leaders – Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, and others. Take Apostle Paul who demonstrated a remarkable example of true leadership. In Acts Chapter 27, Paul was a prisoner on board a ship heading to face Caesar. Though he was a prisoner, he took charge and told the guards that their voyage was going to be disastrous. The Centurion guards did not take heed. They set sail directly into winter storms. Through out the tedious journey Paul, continuously empowered himself as a leader by the guidance of an angel of God.  Acts27:25-26 

 A true leader is close enough to a situation to relate and mentally ahead to motivate. That was Paul.  A great leader must have faith.  Without faith it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6 

What sets great leaders apart?

To a certain extent, society perceives great leaders as powerful and influential. They have political prowess or CEOs of corporations. Just because a corporation is profitable does not mean they have a great leader at the helm.

Executives [people] get caught up in making money at any price opposed to how they can teach, instruct and lead others to reaching their highest potential. As the old proverb goes give a man a fish you feed him for a day; teach a man how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. “True leadership is about bettering the lives of the people around you. That is a simple idea, but far too few people don’t follow it,” stated journalist Shaun Rein.

Leadership opportunities

At many junctures in life we are close enough to a situation to relate but far enough ahead to motivate. This is that leadership opportunity.  However this is typically when we run. The mind conjures up a plethora of reasons why you should not lead – time, willingness to commit, fear, and doubt. What is your reason?

You may not be in charge of an organization, group or church committee however there are situations where you can step out, take the lead. “Great leaders are those who are willing to give up something to help the little person.” Fear, doubt, lacking faith are no options.

Stand up! Stand up today and be the leader that you were called to be! 

Tigner Rand