Being like Andrew – the first disciple

                                     

photo: Morgue File

Read: John 1: 34-42

the fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that win souls is wise. Proverbs 11:30

The introduction of Jesus

The most significant action a Christian can do is introducing a friend to Jesus.  The masses typically justify and find reason as to why they should not.  It is politically incorrect to discuss religion at work; we shun from inviting neighbors to church or fear retribution from family members.

In contrast, I think of Andrew the fisher man. His passion, zeal, and lack of fear was very instrumental in building Christ’s ministry.  Andrew was the most interesting disciple. Though he was one of the elite twelve, his presence was limited in the bible, but several miraculous encounters would have never transpired without him.

Andrews Ministry – Presence

Andrew was a follower of John the Baptist and believed in John’s message of the Messiah coming.  And when Andrew was introduced to Jesus he instantly fell in love. The first thing Andrew did was go tell his brother Simon Peter. And he took him to meet Jesus.  Before you can lead someone to God you got to believe in him. Andrew confirmed his belief when he addressed Jesus as “Rabbi” (which means Master.) To believe in God one has to confess him as Lord, study, know, and trust His word.  

When you think about Andrew, without his presence would we know of the great preacher Peter (John 1:41)? Would the feeding of five thousand occurred (John 6:9), or would the Greek Gentiles come to Christ if it was not for Andrew telling Jesus (John 12:20-22)?

Today’s message

Each of us has a calling on our life. We may not be eloquent speakers, preachers, teachers, singers, or leaders. But we still have work to do in building God's kingdom. There is a friend, family member or stranger we can lead to Christ.

The things we see as insurmountable are often the things God can use for the benefit of the kingdom.  Stop placing limitations on what you can or cannot do for Christ. What ever your calling use it in glory and honor of God. Trust and try God at his word. Put the word into action. How much more could the church accomplish if we all were a little more like Andrew.

Prayer

Sovereign Father in heaven, thank you for your son Jesus Christ.  Thank you for salvation and the opportunity for repentance.  Father, increase my faith so that I can boldly take on a spirit like Andrew. Give me the ability to profess and speak your word to others and not be fearful to lead others to you. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!  Amen.

Good morning! - The fear of Shadows

Good morning! - Giving is never denied

Good morning! -Three types of Christians

Good morning! - spring water vs. pool water

Good morning! - Giving vs. Receiving

Good morning! - Is giving hard?

When Trouble Knocks

Read - Psalm 32: 7-11

Don't be like the horse or mule which have no understanding, which must be harnessed with  bit and bridle. Psalm 32:9

When trouble knocks

The still of night is always awakened when trouble knocks or it kicks in a door. Strangers lurk invisible, like a lion seeking to destroy. They snatch life, and worldly possessions out of your grasp. It’s a hurting feeling when intruders violate your home. 

When trouble knocks people do crazy things that don’t make sense. Emotions supersede logic and all chaos breaks through. Lost job, people in need money, or the house note is due, so it’s okay to rob?

When trouble knocks people become numb, confused, frustrated, helpless, and hopeless.  What do you do or who do you call? Don’t take matters into your hands by leaning upon your own understanding seek a higher power – God?

When trouble knocks cries go up to the Father “please answer the call.” Cover and protect your children through their turmoil.

Facing Challenges

When faced with challenges in life we often contemplate the worse. All too often we strategize on what “we” plan to do oppose to calling on the power and source which passes all understanding – God.

I love David for many reasons.  Despite the fact he was a rascal who committed adultery, a murderer, and liar, who sinned before God, David knew what to do when he encountered calamities in life. He sought God’s heart. Even when David’s E.G.O. – Edged God Out – he always game back and never allowed it to get in the way of his relationship with God.

David in the storm

In the middle of David’s storms he often prayed expressing how he felt: “Have mercy on me O Lord for I am in trouble my eye wastes away with grief… I am a broken vessel… Give ear to my prayer God and don’t hide yourself from my supplication.” David learned to cast ALL his burdens on the Lord and God sustained him every time!

What trouble is knocking at your door – health trouble, finance, trouble, loved ones or friend troubles what do you do?

Cheer up and turn to God’s word and trust in his mercy. Though you may walk through the valley of shadows of death, remember not to fear or worry because God is with you and he will comfort you.  When you seek fresh new help and guidance from God He will show you his ways and lead you in his truth. Then you can be rest assured than when trouble knocks it will not last always because God got your back!

 Prayer

Father God,

You know when trouble knocks at my door. I pray that you will take over the situation.  I release the troubles allowing you to take full control. May the Holy Spirit rest and abide over me bringing your light and peace to dark circumstances. In the name of Jesus hear my cry. Amen.

Good morning! - Spiritual treasures

Good morning! - are you a doer or hearer?

Good morning! - The five Gospels

Good morning! - Life is more important

Good morning! - Wasting your gifts

Your words come from the heart

Photo by: Chelle

Read 15: 8-18

But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart and they defile a man. Matthew 15:18

Let no corrupt talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29

The words you say

Do you understand the words that come from your mouth?  Do you ever listen to the words you speak to family, friends, and co-workers? Parents, do you think before you speak to your children?

• “You are lazy”

• “You are a failure”

• “You are no good”

• “You are just like your father”

Your words come from the heart

In today’s text Jesus reminds us that defilement comes from within. Your words come from the heart. It is not what we put in our mouth that defiles us it is what comes out! Sticks and stones may break your bones but words cut deep like a knife into the spirit.

This communication is twofold – what you speak to others as well as to self. Do you comprehend the word you speak about yourself? 

• “I am too fat”

• “I am too skinny”

• “My nose makes me look ugly”

• “I don’t like the way that I look”

This language is spoken daily, intentionally and unintentionally.

And these words are powerful and they do have recourse – negative or positive, the bible tells us so. 

Matthew 15:18-19 - …those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart defiles a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts…

Denied Destiny

Many years ago I worked with young man who had a thirst for knowledge. Based on conversation, a person could tell this young man was very intelligent  and he should have pursued his educational dreams. In my opinion, through our conversations, his destiny was cut short based on his childhood experiences.

Though his parent’s intentions were well it was the corrupt words spoken which caused this man to drop out of school.  “No matter what I did they never saw the best in me.”  It was defiled and harmful words which prompted the boy to give up – “Dummy, lazy, crazy, and stupid.” Followed by “might as well drop out of school you are not going to amount to nothing.” After years of verbal abuse the boy gave up.

Toxic words poison the mind

Family, words can be toxic.They can poison the mind; tear down self-esteem and confidence in a person.  I encourage you to start thinking before speaking especially in anger, a fit of rage, or when disciplining a loved one. Think before you speak and use words that are persuasive.

T

• Empower

• Encourage

• Uplift

• Love

Think before you speak

When we verbalize negative words it tears down what God wants to build up! It destroys the Gifts that God has given, never allowing them to manifest. It negates God’s purpose.

Meditate today and think of times you have spoke negative towards a loved one, friend, or coworker. Seek forgiveness and become more aware of the words you speak. It is not what you put in your mouth that defiles a person it is what comes out – do you understand the words that are coming from my mouth…?

Prayer

Father God in Heaven,

Words I speak are manifested. They can encourage and uplift or defile and destroy.  Lord, help me to become more aware of the words I speak. May they be words of encouragement not negative words.  Expressions that will uplift not break down.  Rekindle the fire in my heart to see the goodness in everything and everyone. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart always be expectable in thy sight.  Amen.

Find your purpose when Laughing out loud at yourself

Photo by: jdurham - Morgue File

Read:  Matthew 9:9-13

As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” and Matthew got up and followed him. Matthew 9:9

laugh out loud 

Sometimes we need to stop and laugh out loud at ourselves. After many years of searching I finally found my purpose. Before the revelation came there was emotional turmoil which dictated the outcome of my situation. Now I can laugh because all along it was right under my nose I just did want to believe it.

It is in my opinion there is a direct correlation between the things people love to do and how God can use them as a purpose driven life for him. He can use anyone for his work. It does not matter your background, education, your appearance or past.  

Take for example the disciples. There was a wide array of professions: Fishermen, Tax Collectors, Farmers and so one.  It is safe to assume these men were the best in their profession. Their skills which I’m sure provided a comfortable life style. But after meeting Jesus they found their true purpose in life. Following Jesus allowed them to increase even more. When teaming up with the Lord you will find your purpose.

Purpose driven life

All my life people prophesied that I would be a preacher but I never saw it. “If God want me to preach he will tell me” was my usual response. The thought would cross my mind as years passed and I even asked God “if this is what you want me to do tell me I will do it.” Never once did he respond. 

I ran from my purpose – writing – opposed to embracing it. In my mind’s eye it was too small, insignificant, and not impressive enough. The exact thing I ran from God was trying to get my attention.  He was speaking to me all along but I tuned him out for years. The Holy Spirit had reviled to me what my purpose was but I could not receive it.

The changes or miracles you are looking for don’t just happen. It takes an effort from you first.  Once you implement by taking a step God will begin the process.   As hard as it was for me to begin writing again God opened doors, and fed my spirit with subject matter.  From that one step God has now allowed The Souls Remedy Ministry to grow and touch people worldwide. Wow, what I saw as insignificant has now manifested into something larger than I ever imagined!

After finally becoming obedient by writing, God disclosed the next phase of my purpose – accept the call into ministry.  Does that mean I preach, become a pastor? At this juncture of the journey I have to say no.  But it is clear that I have to begin this process to find out.

Running from your purpose

Loved ones what are you running from? Evaluate yourself what are your passions? What things come to you effortlessly? I suggest you focus in these areas first.  The desires you think you want may not be the things you really need. Evaluate whatever is pulling at your heart strings that is where you will find your passion. In the process, edify God with it and that is when the purpose will become plain to see. As with me, once I begin the process, God provided the instructions. I received them through His word, prayer and people.

There is something God want to birth in you. Many of you may already know what it is but you keep running from it like I did “this can’t be it, my purpose is bigger than this.”  Take time today start meditating with God so you to can stop and laugh out loud at our self on the goodness you have missed.

prayer

Sovereign Father in Heaven, You created me with a purpose.  Today I ask for clarity in my life. Clear my mind and spirit so I can begin fulfilling my purpose to glory and honor you.. Align with your purpose  for me and I pray that I will edify you in everything that I do. Amen  

Love is so far away

Courtesy: Morgue Files

Love is so far away

In a person’s eyes you see no love – just pain, sorrow, and a distant gaze. Their actions are self-centered. Eager to attack when betrayed but never willing to forgive.

I’m so in to you but love is still in need of love today.  Bitterness and vindictiveness plagues the mind.

Selfishness, pride, and ego invade Love’s place in the heart and it Edges God Out.

Love is far away.

Practice Love

In Corinthians Paul speaks of Love and how the church [we the people] should practice love. It is patient, kind, enduring and not boastful.  Contrary to the bible’s blueprint, society is selfish and self-centered – me, myself and I.  

On Main Street America, a tattered homeless person can cause heads to drop or people change their direction. Tears shed when disaster is broadcasted on the airwaves yet people find excuses why not to help.  Where is the Love?

Afraid to share love

Why are people afraid to share love? God’s word tells us to have compassion. Love your neighbor as yourself. But how can we when no one knows their neighbors?  Love is so far away. Love is in need of love today.

There is self inflecting hate among people making it almost impossible to love a neighbor let alone yourself. As Christians, when love is expressed by its true meaning it can ease the pain of whatever you are encountering. It bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things. Love never fails. It conquers all – literally. 

 Love Traits

In order to become more like Christ, we need to practice these “Love Traits.”

• Love: is kind
• Love: does not envy
• Love: is not puffed up
• Love: is not rude
• Love: does not seek its own
• Love: does not rejoice in iniquity

So this is the message: Love one another. Anyone who cannot love remains in death. Brothers and sister let us not just love with words or speech make sure you love with action and truth because love is still so far away.

Prayer

Dear God, your son Jesus Christ is the perfect love. He loved us so much he laid his life down and died for us.  Father fill this vessel with your unconditional love. Teach me your truths and lead me to perfect love in Jesus name.  Amen.

Good Morning! - when fear strikes

Good Morning! 

Fear strikes cause your eyes are on the problem 

and not on God. 

Why wait until you are afraid 

before you trust in God...

The Gift of Darkness

Read Matthew 5:13-16

Let your light so shine before man that they may see your good works and glorify your father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

The Gift of Darkness

There once was a light that burned bright. It could be seen near and far. That light came from heaven above – God.  Its glow raged with fury in the souls of man. It immolated tranquility – peace – love – hope for all to see. It produced a savory flavor that pleased all.

Today, the light is faint. Chaos covers the world. Wavered hope, dismantled dreams, and doubt have smothered this internal light. Wretchedness has trampled out the flavor of life.  Senseless crime roams the earth like a lion seeking to kill steal and destroy. The Gift of Darkness is no fairy tale it is reality.

The Salt and Light of the world

God’s word described the light as his anointing – The Holy Spirit. In Matthew chapter five, Jesus reminded his followers of the importance of Salt and Light. He claimed we are the salt of the earth and when the flavor is lost we are good for nothing. Also, we are the light of the world. We are like a city on a hill which cannot be hid. We are suppose to let our light so shine before man that they may see our good works and glorify our father which is in heaven.

Though The Gospel has been spoken, many of us have lost our savor and our light has diminished. Making it hard for others to see the good words or God in us. Over time people Edge God Out by seeking their understanding. These actions lead a person further from the eternal flame – the source of God.

Reignite the light

What can be done to reignite this gift from God?

• Repent from sins

• Humbly ask forgiveness

• Reestablish relationship with God

• Seek God’s guidance

• Ask to refresh the Holy Spirit in you

Sincerely implementing these steps will rekindle the eternal flame within. It will bring back hope to the hopeless, joy to the joyless and comfort to the sorrowful. Walk in the light, the beautiful light so that man can see God’s light which burns bright within.

Prayer

Abba Father, Thank you for your Holy Spirit, the eternal flame. Refresh in me a new light so that it will shine bright like a diamond for all to see. May your light shine that others can see your goodness in me. Amen.

Good Morning! - do your part

Good Morning!

We are one body in Christ. 

If we fail to do our part it may hinder growth of others. 

If we fail to witness to others we may cause one to be lost. do your part!

Good morning! - God is right on time

Ft. Worth, TX Botanical Garden

Good Morning!

God is always right on time!

You have to trust and believe his word.

Otherwise it will come back void

#Faith 

THIS THE DAY THAT THE LORD HAS MADE...it's my birthday

This is the day the Lord made for me!

I thank Him for another birthday!

I'm gonna make it the best day of my life!

It will be filled with Joy and many blessings!

I can see a storm coming

Myrtle Beach Tornado 2001 - courtesy Flikr.com

Read: Matthew 8:23-27

Hey replied,” yeah with little faith why are you so afraid?” Matthew 8:26

Strange Clouds

I saw the storm forming. The infamous tail dropped from the sky. First thought it was just strange clouds and not a storm. But within seconds the rotating column formed into a tornado.

“It’s a tornado let’s go!” The words I told my family as we hustled into the hallway of hotel.

In life, we don’t always see storms (troubles) develop. Often times we just wake up and “poof” we are in the midst of the storm! Just as the disciples experienced out at sea – suddenly a furious storm came…. Their first reaction was fear!

Peace in the storm

 This day I saw the storm form on the beach from our hotel room. My thought was the safest place would be the hallway and in the arms of God. Our room was near the lobby so all guest were ushered to the center corridor.  There was panic, fear, and people crying “what are we going to do!”

In the middle of this storm there was also peace. Groups of people, including me praying, praising, and asking God to protect us all.

No one Greater

Jesus told the disciples they had little faith. So does it mean when Christians have faith they should never be afraid? No! What Jesus meant was God is far greater than whatever storm faced. Learn to tell your storms that God is bigger rather than thinking of how big your storms are.  When we finally realize God is forever present it keeps fear at bay.

Lingering Storms

Tornadoes typically are quick storms but this one was like problems we often face – it lingered around. The twister formed in air, bounced from one hotel, to land, beach, back to land while hitting a couple of hotels.  

When problems linger hunker down and stay in prayer just as we did during our storm.

When the storm passed no one in our hotel was injured. What made this story miraculous we later learned that hotels north and south of our building sustained damage but ours did not.  The tornado bypassed our hotel. By facing the storm with God in the middle I believe he showed favor to all because a few took time to pray. 

Remember to pray without ceasing especially in your storms. Know that God’s presence can keep fear from paralyzing you.

Prayer

Father God I have faced my storms alone allowing fear to take control. No matter how bad my storms may be Father God you are larger than my situation and I praise you for keeping me covered.  Amen.

Good Morning! - right on time God

Good Morning!

God is always right on time!

U have to trust and believe his word.

Otherwise it will come back void... #Faith

Grace and Mercy almost died

The 1993 Explorer a few days before the crash

Read: Job 1:6-12


And the Lord said to Satan, “Behold all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person.” Job 1:12



I should be dead

I should be dead. The conditions were perfect for someone to die, but God intervened.

My mind’s eye often replays May 13, 1999. A sunny spring picturesque day until skies darken and the windows of heaven opened. Around 4:00 pm, a single cell thunderstorm burst through quickly dumping rain and high winds. Just as fast as the dark skies rolled in, so did a bright sunny day. The soaked roads and rush hour traffic made the conditions perfect for an accident.

While jockeying for space on the highway things changed from bad to worse. In my rear view mirror cars swiftly approached while the cars in front abruptly stopped. In the chaos, one clipped the left bumper of my 1993 Ford Explorer, propelling it into a 360 degree spin over four highway lanes.

It was a twister ride in slow motion but nothing was fun about it. I could see the faces in cars as I glided across each lane. My ride stopped when a van, in the HOV lane, T-boned me into the concrete median.



Grace and Mercy covered me

I should have been dead but it was the Lord that covered me – Grace and Mercy.

At the time of my accident I was going through a transitional period of seeking God and his wisdom. Satan knew it and did not want me to gain that knowledge. Once I realized how much God loved and protected me the life journey became more bearable.

God covers us

The first chapter of Job reminds me regardless how bad a situation may be God got me covered. No matter how much Satan dishes out God always has the final say.

I almost died that day. I never would have made it if God had not intervened. I often ponder what if May 13, 1999 was the day God said, “this day your soul shall be required.” My life as I known it would have ended. What would the world be like?

• Missed the birth of my son – October, 1999
• Preceded my mother in death – July, 2000
• Missed uncovering my purpose – July 2007
• Missed the launch of The Souls Remedy – April 2010
• Missed daughter graduating high school – May 2011
• Missed daughter realizing her purpose – December 2012
• Missed son perform with high school band - May 2013
• Missed song writing debut TheMusic Industry Camp – July 2013

The list can go on…

Count your blessings

I’m a firm believer that no matter how much Satan attempts to attack us God’s word still rings loud and clear. “Behold all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person.” Once we realize this Satan cannot touch us. We control our destiny provided we stay in the Will of God.

Do you really count your blessings? Being grateful for the little things of life; rising each morning, ability to walk, talk, see, and ear? We know not the day or the hour when our creator will require our souls. Are you ready? Have you given your life to Christ? If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved Romans 10:9-13. And trust God at his word. It’s just that simple.



Prayer

Gracious Father, thank you for life. Thank you for the days given and the days before me. I apologize for taking them for granted because no day is promised. I will begin to praise and thank you for every blessing and day you have in store for me. Thank you for your Grace and Mercy. Amen.

Good Morning! - Love

PGood Morning!

LUV is patient,

LUV is kind.

Tell someone U LUV them!

Happy Valantine's Day

Good Morning! - Respect

Good Morning!

Be reminded RESPECT is earned.

If you want RESPECT

U have to give RESPECT.

No one owes U anything.

Go in peace!

Good Morning! - affecting people

Good Morning!

You never know how you affect people -

by the things

we do OR say...



Be kind, speak words of encouragement, SMILE!

it may be the only nice thing they hear all day...

Good Morning! - life is hard

Good Morning!

YOU say life is hard and you  don't know what to do.

YOU can overcome it by working out with God.

Try him at his word! and see God work in YOUR life.

Good Morning! - shelter in the storm

Good Morning!

There is shelter even in the storm.  

Satan don't like it when you pray. 

Us your strongest weapon the Power of Prayer. 

Never leave home without it!

Good Morning! - is it a sin to pray?

Good Morning!

Is it a sin not to pray?

No but it reveals self-sufficiency.

It's bad to straighten difficult situations with human resources.

Depend upon the Lord for everything!

Good Morning! - playing by the rules

Good Morning! 

We have to play by the rules even when they sound stupid. 

if you don't like the rules then make a change for the better!

Good Morning - being content

Good Morning! 

Learning to be content does not mean U loose or settle for less. 

Be at peace, where God has U praise him and keep pressing forward

Good Morning! - do not underestimate

Good Morning! 

Never underestimate a person's will to survive. 

God has equipped U with everything U need to succeed. 

U have the power to overcome anything 

Just Believe!

When nothing seems to go right watch cartoons

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose. Romans 8:28 -

When nothing seems to go right

Has there been a time when nothing seemed to go right? Your suffering has gone unanswered by God? You become a pessimistic, naysayer with no vision? Well, watch some cartoons. These animated characters can be great counselors!

As a child I enjoyed the humor and slap stick comedy of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Wyle E. Coyote. As an adult I recognize the subliminal life lessons messages Warner Brothers offer.

Life can be loony and catastrophic

Life can be loony and catastrophic. When visions go awry or God appears far away people tend to give up and become naysayers.  Lack of trust makes way for hair-brain ideas while faith fades to black.

Cartoon Land parallels reality and biblical times. Take for example Habakkuk who questioned God about his timing and allowing His people to suffer (Habakkuk 1:1-4). God is not on our schedule but He does show up right on time! It is how we approach each situation – with faith – which makes the difference.

Bugs Bunny:  The Optimist  

Regardless of his predicament Bugs Bunny was always cool, aware of his surroundings and had a way out in every circumstance. He never let ghastly situations get him down.  Even when his arch nemesis, Elmer Fudd, showed up with the intent to kill, Bugs Bunny escaped.

Philippians 4:13 reminds us “We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.” Bugs Bunny faced each situation as an optimist. Learn to speak God’s word and believe you can do all things. God will give you an exit plan!

Daffy Duck: the Naysayer

Daffy Duck was a boastful and cunning character who could be brash. Never speaking a kind word “you are dethpicable!”

Daffy Duck is like the people in the synagogue who laughed at Jesus when he told the crowd “The girl is not dead but asleep…”  Matthew 9:23-26.

Wile E. Coyote: The visionary

Despite is wily characteristics and poor quality gadgets, The Coyote never gave up. No matter how many times his ACME supplies blew up in his face he got back up, brushed is shoulders off and tried again!

The Centurion Captain’s faith was nothing short of visionary. The Centurion was not a Christian but because of the faith of his servant he envisioned Jesus could heal him just for the asking Luke 7:1-10.  Jesus was amazed at this man’s vision and because he believed the servant was healed.

Write it down

The Lord told Habakkuk to write down the revelation and make it plan on tablets. When situations linger take on the characteristics of Bugs Bunny and Wile E. Coyote:  Wait on the Lord, be an optimist, be visionary, and believe God will provide an exit plan.

Prayer

Father God, I am not free from facing situations. Help me to grow in faith so that I will not be a Naysayer, give me your vision so that I can be an faith believing optimist. I will walk by faith not by sight and stand on your word: I can do all things through you because Christ strengthens me! Amen.

Good Morning! - Jesus is with you

Good Morning!

Jesus said He is always with us.





We often forget this & try to do things without him…. That is when we become lost.