Team marriage

We are all members of some type of team – work, organizations, or church. A team is “a number of persons associated in some joint action.” The downside for most teams, everyone are not full participants but they want the fringe benefits of winning. Marriage is a team. Being married is more than wearing the Team Jersey. It's teamwork. To have a chance to win, you need a coach. Jesus.  Being on a team requires practice and being fully committed. That’s supporting one another’s dreams, encouraging, uplifting, and motivation when you, or the team is loosing. It's Working (training) through the pains of life, it's Exercising (faith) during the hard times and talking (praying) to coach Jesus. So what team are you on? Are you just a half-hearted team member showing up when things are great? Or you practicing to improve the team? Regardless of the team you are on, Continue training, don’t give up, grow tired, or weary otherwise you will stumble and fall. Don’t just wear the jersey be a team player! 

Faith in action

Whenever talked about, Samson is mostly known for his Superman strength (Jud.14:6), his locked hair, and his infamous relationship with Delilah (Jud.16). Very rarely do you hear of Samson’s faith. Despite the fact Samson was dedicated to God before birth (Jud. 13:5-7), he was a flawed and sinful man. His actions led him to do the opposite of what God wanted. He was spiritually disobedient, yet the Spirit of God stayed with him until his hair was cut. Samson’s hair symbolizes his connection with God. Once severed, it was lost (Jud.16:20-21). Many of us are like Samson. You are a dedication to God. He has a purpose for your life. Despite your sins, God still has love for you just as he did for Samson. The new growth for Samson signifies new relationship rebuilding of faith in God. No matter where you are in life you can go back to God. Faith led Samson to pray. Through faith Samson did his greatest deed for God (Jud. 16:28-30). 

You are the light of the world

There once was a light that burned bright. That light came from God. Its glow raged with fury in man’s soul. It produced  Peace, Love, & Hope. Today, the light is faint. Chaos covers the world. Violence, Hate, & Hopelessness, has smothered this internal light. God’s word described the light as The Holy Spirit. Jesus reminded his followers of the importance of Salt and Light (Matt.5:13-16). He proclaimed we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Many of us have lost our savor and our light has diminished. Making it hard for others to see God’s goodness in us.  

Reignite the Light of God in you! 

• Repent from sins
• Humbly ask forgiveness
• Reestablish relationship with God
• Seek God’s guidance
• Ask to refresh the Holy Spirit in you

This is the spark to 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.

Be Kind to others

It don’t cost a thing to be genuinely kind to others. In fact, it’s easier and takes less energy to be kind than to hate or be mean. Kindness can be as simple as speaking words of encouragement, helping others, or giving kudos for a job well done! I believe God created us to be kind. It’s learned behaviors which cause people to hate or lack empathy. We should be kind in all things that we do. 

In Luke 6:27-36, Jesus said love your enemies. Do to others as you would have them do to you. In other words, be kind. By doing this, Jesus said we are children of The Most High. God is kind to the ungrateful. Be merciful just as God is merciful. Your kind gesture may be the only kind thing a person heard or received all day! 

The Gospel is like a bar of soap

The Gospel is like a bar of soap. We all know what it is. As long as it stays closed, nothing happens. By opening and applying, one cleans the body and the other can clean the mind and spirit. 

The bible is the tool which is needed to develop new ways of thinking and living for Christ. The Gospel, Like soap can wash off yesterday’s past, dirt, pains, guilt, anger, and start you fresh! And just like soap, the Gospel has to be used daily otherwise life will eventually stink. 

Verbal abuse is still abuse

During my impressionable years in Catholic School I heard negative prophesying from nuns and other adults stating, I was bad and wouldn’t amount to nothing. Despite my parents motivating and encouraging efforts, sticks and stone didn’t break my bones but the words differently effected me! When negative words are ingested, the mind can visualize, accept, and ultimately squeeze life out of you. Be careful what you say to children. Though you boast of never being an abusive parent, you failed to realize your words can hurt more than a fist or belt. Death and life are in the #power of the tongue (Prov. 18:21). When disciplining, choose words wisely. A heart filled with anger will produce harsh #negative words. Express your disappointment, but speak words that build up, #encourages, and express Your #love. In all things seek God and pray. God’s love and written word can resolve all problems. #God can restore life! 

Do you really love God?

As Christians we proclaim our love for God, but quickly disregard helping others. 

We have encountered neighbors and family in need, but we ignore or express our dislike towards them. The Christians who avoided the Good Samaritan is a great example of not loving your neighbor(Luke 10:25-37). Do we really love God? Whoever claims to love God yet hates his neighbors is a liar (1John 4:20). Love comes from God. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God (1John 4:7-18). Jesus gave us the formula for love. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Mark 12:28–34. Now, let’s try to live by it. 

Unlimited forgiveness!

Life is filled with sin, temptations, and things which will cause us to stumble. It’s inevitable. Jesus even declared it to the disciples (Luke 17:1). When offenses from a Christian is repeated continuously, be mindful of our words and actions against them. When the offenders repent, through our faith in God and prayer, it’s our duty to forgive them each time and not hold grudges. God wants us to demonstrate unlimited forgiveness! No matter how appalling, His desire is for us to forgive. To reach unlimited forgiveness, increase our faith! If we don’t, it’s better for us to be thrown in the sea with a stone tied around our neck. Learn to forgive when a person asks for forgiveness. 

Why are you so fearful?

Why at you so fearful? What are you afraid of? Whatever the situation, good or bad, God is with you. Be not afraid, trust in God’s word (Isaiah 41:10). There is nothing man can do to harm you! God is a refuge during trouble times (Psalms 46:1-3). Trust in God’s Holy Word (Isaiah 54:17). God’s love can endure any storm. Keep your mind on God, he will give you perfect peace (Isaiah 26:1-19). Praise His Holy name. 

Bitterness is a cancer

When you exclude God from your past hurts, and pains, anger festers in your soul. The anger turns to bitterness and resentment. Bitterness, turns into never-ending  misery, sadness, sorrow, anguish, and unhappiness. You now focus on hostility. Your ‘justified’ retaliation develops, Emotional instability, Lack of peace & Joy. No one can share in what little joy you have, let alone give joy back. This feeling and adverse words are demonic mind tricks Satan use to keep you from walking in God’s favor. Bitterness is a cancer, but there is a cure through Jesus. Relinquish your pain and suffering to God. Forgive yourself as well as those who may have caused the pain. 

Complainers are never satisfied

We live in a society that complains about everything: work, the boss, wages, home, spouse, even church. Complainers are discontent and never satisfied. The Bible reminds us to do all things without grumbling and arguing ( Phil. 2:14). Bitterness is contagious (Heb. 12:15), it can spread to others. The children in the wilderness were no different, they complained 40 years all while God fed, blessed, protected, and clothed them

(Ex. 15 &16). God don’t like complainers. So much so, he killed them (Numbers 11).  Grumbling is not fruit of the Spirit. It is a sign of a faithfulness and selfish person. Stop complaining. Find peace in God. Learn to let go of the issues and trust God. His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matt. 11:28-30). 

You are the answer to someone’s problem

You are the answer to someone’s problem. Your unchanging faith can deliver others. The Centurion’s great faith was enough to heal his servant (Matt. 8:5-10). Unwavering faith is needed to activate Great Faith. The Centurion heard of or possibly saw Jesus’ miracles. What made his faith so great, he didn’t think like the Pharisees or Sadducees, asking for signs from heaven (Matt 16:1). He asked Jesus to just say the word! You are the answer to someone’s problem. Say the word, in Jesus name. 

Be courteous, kind, and generous

Acts chapter 28, Paul and other prisoners shipwrecked on the island of Malta. The islanders were welcoming, courteous, and kind to complete strangers. The chief official of Malta invited Paul to stay in his home. Their compassion for the castaways was not temporary, it lasted for three months! Upon leaving Malta, the castaways received a ship to continue their journey.

The question is “are you a courteous, kind, and generous Christian? When we are tender hearted and kind to one another, (Eph 4:32) generosity is returned. Make a Christ like effort daily to be courteous and kind to others. 

Are you a hoarder?

Are you a hoarder? Are you holding onto past treasures in your life? Hoarding is not just junk in a house, it’s also mental hoarding. Holding on to pain, suffering, lost dreams, and hopes, can inflect a life time of hardship. Whatever your mind is hoarding there is a cure. It begins by letting go. Forgiving self. Seeking God. There is nothing God can’t fix. Let us not fail to recognize hoarding is physical, mental, and spiritual behavioral disorder and if not treated this disease can attribute to life lasting problems. If you or someone you know has a hoarding problem; (object form or spiritual form) please seek professional help. In Jesus name Amen. 

God’s daily masterpiece

The same sun has risen daily for many of years. What’s so amazing, God creates a new masterpiece daily. Each morning starts with a fresh canvas. Hints of blue and gray highlighted with basic primary colors. One day heavy splotches of red, orange and burnt sienna, while on other day’s blue and purple tones grace the skies. Sometimes, a sunrise against a light blue canvas splattered with floating pink cotton candy clouds or a sunset blended with burnt orange and amber colors against the evening sky giving way to sparkling star diamonds on midnight blue heavens. we take God’s amazing grander for granted. God’s art is Alive and vibrant!  Remind us daily your beautiful creations. Amen. 

What makes a great dad?

What makes  a great father?  

Regardless of the flaws, and imperfections, how would you describe good dad. 

In honor of Father’s Day, share a memorable moment, characteristic, or attribute of your dad. If your dad was a superhero, tell me who would he be! 

Pure in your eyes only

Cain’s offering was given with good intentions but his actions spoke differently (Gen. 4:3-7). People are pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives (Prov. 16:2). By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice (Heb 11:4). Abel gave his best to God with a pure heart. Cain brought the leftovers and he gave grudgingly. When we don’t do what’s right (Gen. 4:7), we get angry and often depressed (Gen. 4:6) because we were ignored or rejected. The lesson: always give God your best - time, talent, treasure. Learn from mistakes. Don’t allow your ego to rule over you. Cain took matters into his hands opposed to seeking God and repenting. In everything you do for God give him your best with a happy heart. 

It takes a special man to be a dad

Fathers can be strong will and often misunderstood. Despite their antiquated beliefs, deep down there is a caring and loving person inside. It takes a special man to be a father, dad, or pop. Often times their good intent goes unnoticed. Despite being unappreciated they never stop grinding. His words are stern yet he listens and comforts. Stubborn in their beliefs they never complain. These imperfect qualities make dad loved and respected and sometimes hated. Don’t make dad an afterthought. Take time to show some love this Father’s Day. 

Never miss an opportunity to praise

God continuously provides miracles for all to see. Often we focus on the horrific situation or take God’s wonders for granted. We have witnessed hikers surviving days in the wilderness, hero’s who saved victims in mass shootings, and your miracle, God blessing and making a way for you! In moments of joy we miss a praise opportunity. We either respond like the nine leperswho kept going and never gave thanks or like the one leper, who came back, praising God in a loud voice(Lk. 17:15). As you go through your daily activities, take time to see and thank God for the little things. Don’t miss an opportunity to praise. 

Hesed Love

Naomi’s gift from God was Ruth. In the midst of despair, the carnal mind oftentimes takes over the spiritual mind. Naomi was no different. Life’s tragedies made her a heart broken and embittered woman (Ruth 1: 3-4). It was Ruth’s love for Naomi which ultimately became her blessing. God knew her pain and he didn’t forget her. The type of kindness Ruth had comes from the Hebrew word Hesed. A form of love that won’t let go. A self-sacrificing, stubborn, costly, voluntary Love. The type of love God has for his children. The type of love Jesus exemplified for us by sacrificing his life on the cross. Despite Naomi’s request for her to leave, Ruth wouldn’t let go (Ruth 1:16-18). Ruth was an example of loving-kindness (Hesed) through her willingness to help others. During your life journey, allow God to use you like Ruth by blessing others with true Hesed loving-kindness. 

Jars of faith

You are down to your last two hundred dollars. Your home heading to foreclosure, along with every earthly possession. You receive a prophetic word from God telling you to “collect jars.” Would you do it? Are you bold enough to put your trust in God’s word? Have mustard seed faith that God will provide? Elisha told the widow something far-fetched, “go ask your neighbors for empty jars and don’t ask for just a few.” (2 Kings 4:1-7). This woman had enough faith to believe Elisha and not question the assignment. If there was any doubt or no faith her blessings would have been cut short. You with little faith, what are you doubting? What are your empty jars? What is God calling you to do? Start a business, teach, or preach? Get the jars and do it in the name of Jesus even when it don’t make sense.  God will pour and fill you just as he did for the widow.

Nothing just happens in life

Nothing just happens in life. Ruth experienced a tragic situation, the unexpected loss of wealth, moving to a foreign country then the death of her husband and father-in-law. Enough to change a person’s life and faith forever! (Ruth 1:1-18). We focus on the incomprehensible and then convince ourselves that there is no way to recover. We take it a step further by doubting God. What tragedy have you encountered? Who have you blamed? I can’t reiterate  enough, seek God for everything! It’s during your tragic situations God can do his Greatest work. In your weakness God’s strength is made perfect and his Grace is sufficient (2 Cor 12:8-10). By Ruth changing her mindset, God was able to bless and restore everything (Ruth 4). Whatever the situation, remember nothing just happens. Take time to heal, seek God and grow. Allow God to use your tragedies  to be a blessing to yourself as well as others. 

focusing on God

When a person lacks certain resources, they usually revert to their own understanding. It’s during times of distress we lose focus, we don’t have the wherewithal to see through circumstances. When David was a fugitive, he spent countless days trying to avoid situations (1 Sam. 21). It was not until this poor man came to his senses and called on God was he rescued (Psalms 34:6-8). We tend to make life harder than it should be. Stop taking matters into your hands. Trust the Lord. Seek him for all things. Taste and see for yourself that the Lord is good! 

Finish the race

The hardest part in a race is near the end. The legs get fatigued, muscles cramp and breathing becomes labored. This is the time many give up. In everything that you do remember, The race is not won to the swift but to the one who endureth until the end(Ecc. 9:11). When facing new challenges, starting a new job, or growing your relationship with God, don’t give up. Train, study, and pray. Build your endurance and run a good race. Don’t let people or obstacles cut in and keep you from God’s truth. Finish your race. 

Fear stops growth

After years of dreaming, you have nothing to show. Those desires of the heart,now seem so far away. Your situation is not unique, many face setbacks due to self imposed fears. The fear of failinghas caused many people to fail before they attempt to start let a lone finish the project. Is there a fear to start or finish a project? Have you sabotaged your dreams with procrastination? It’s time to break throughthe barriers of fear. God can provide all your needs, just believe and don't give up hope. Seek God’s will. Ask for his guidance. Commit your vision to God, and he will direct your path. Be encouraged; rekindle the fire. Be a winner in Christ today!

Purpose in the pain

We all have experienced some form of pain in our life. It does not matter if it’s physical or emotional, we don’t like pain. We try to endure by pressing forward, but the relentless pain becomes a distraction. All focus is on the agony. There is purpose in the pain. God. Be reminded that God’s power is greater in our weakness. As agonizing as the situation may be please don’t give up. Find the peace of the Holy Spirit in the suffering. Here are a few verses that can help. Psalms 23, Psalms 34:18,  1 Corth.1:3-8, 1 Peter 4:12-19. 

You are God’s greatest creation

U are an unique piece of art - a masterpiece. U are God’s greatest creation. U are made in his own image. U are his handiwork. So why do U spend so much time trying to alter what God created? Your dislike of self tell God U don’t like his creation. According to David, God’s eyes saw your unformed body (Ps. 139:13-16), he created U. If U profess to trust God for the superficial things why can’t U trust his creation of U? U are a masterpiece - created in God’s own image. Focusing on the “imperfections” causes U to miss opportunities for God to work through U. There is something great in U that God wants to birth. Put your trust in his word. Seek him and find out God’s custom-designed plan for U! 

Actions speak louder than words

Parents are good at telling children what not to do. Their directives are continuously repeated while most Children forget or tune them out. As Christians, parents, teachers and leaders we expect people to adhere to our demands. But we forget the most important principle, lead by example.   

Children/people observe everything. We say one thing yet doing the opposite. 

Jesus always led by example. His most memorable moment was washing the disciples feet - he led by example (Jhn 13:5-6). In all things be cognizant of what you say and what you do. If you want someone to change, live by Jesus’ example. Actions speak louder than words. 

Stop complaining to God

Paul believed the throne in his side impeded him from doing more for Christ. God saw it differently, “my grace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in weakness.”2 Cor. 12:7-10.Moses was yet another who requested God to remove his infliction.Ex 4: 10.Why wouldn’t God help these men? Despite both men’s requests, God didn’t take away their handicaps. We miss opportunities for God to work through us because of complaints. The one thing we pray to remove, could be the reminder that God’s grace is all we need. His power is perfect in our weakness. Don’t let your mind be your stumbling block to miss opportunities for God to be glorified. Your sins, handicaps, or afflictions happened so that the works of God might be displayed in you. (John 9:3).

 Beat the odds, don’t allow your mishaps to keep you from reaching your zenith in life.

The lies of Satan

We allow satan’s lies to become our truths. Satan attacks our mind, we react. He tells us the things that cause us to be of fear, doubt, spark anger and we respond. We lose peace of mind, even attack others based on what was planted in our thoughts. His cunning deception leads us astray making us take our eyes and thoughts off Christ (2Cor. 11:3). We can rid the devil by submitting ourselves to God (Jam. 4:7). Put on the full armor of God  (Eph. 6:10-18) and Pray without ceasing (1Thess. 5:17). It’s a daily fight to resist temptation but be encouraged, know that God is with you, he will not forsake you (Deut 31:8).

Don’t ignore the sermon

We have all heard that boring preacher, who stumbles through the sermon seeming unable to deliver. Or the tone-death choir who botched your favorite song. The attempt was well-meant but they lacked certain qualifications. We dismiss their messages as worthless. We forget who we serve! At some point in every sermon, God can breakthrough the preacher’s words or the chorus and deliver something  profound for the people. God can use anyone to deliver his word. We have to always pay attention to the messengers. Moses stuttered, (Ex 4:10) yet he freed the children of Egypt. Noah was a drunk, (Gen 9:20-21), David, a boy, killed Goliath (1 Sam 17:42) and Paul had a ‘thorn’ in his side (II Cor 12: 6-7). Who God calls, it’s based upon their unique personality, knowledge and aptitude not what we preserve them as. Learn to be more attentive regardless to who brings the message. Renew your spirit, Open your ears so you can Hear what God will speak to you!

Stop doing things by yourself

U didn't get the job U thought was yours. The one U prayed so fervently for. Since God didn’t give U that job or respond as quick as desired, U now take matters into your own hands. God was always with David, as a shepherd, the fight with Goliath and when Saul tried to kill him. In the midst of chaos we tend to take matters in our hands. When Saul began his quest for David’s life, he ran. In 1 Sam 21, David didn’t seek God he was looking for food and protection. As a fugitive, God reminded David he was with him through the Scared bread and Goliath’s sword. Each should have been signs of how God had provided in the past. Despite the signs, David continued to do it his way. What have U prayed for but continue to do it your way? Over time David learned to trust God. U can too. Pray, meditate in the word, listen for God and trust him. 

Stop provoking

Are you your brothers keeper? Do you spend more time talking about their  weaknesses, opposed to lifting them up to their greatness? There was a mother who spoke negatively to her children. Negative condescending words anytime they didn’t do what she wanted. Her harsh words led to dissection. Profaning family and friends can lead them to do things that can destroy relationships. The Bible speaks about provoking. Samuel’s mother Hannah was provoked (1 Sam. 6-8). So much so it made her sick to her stomach. As Christians we should speak blessings to one another not evil. The same goes for parents and children. No matter how bad a child may be there is always something good that can be said. Stop provoking, Take time to search for the goodness instead of their negative attributes. Your foolish provocation is heavier than a stone and sand. 

Walking away from God

Jesus always asked a question before responding. When God’s answer is not what we expect, we tend to walk away sad (Mark 10:22). Like the rich man, we get stuck on the question (v.20-21). When Jesus asked ‘why do you call me good?’ It was for a reason. Just like the rich man many miss the true answer. We all lack one thing: we fail to keep the first and greatest of the commandments—love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength (Matthew 22:37-38). We put our treasures and great deeds first. Like the rich man, Making it hard to give up and truly follow Christ.  What can you give up today? 

Why is it so hard to let go?

Why is it so hard for us to let go? Why are we so overly attached to our pass or our possessions? We are spiritually disconnected with God, no different than the rich man and his wealth (Lk18:18-30). We can’t forget what we should leave behind (Phil3:13). We can’t let go of Material things, and/or pass experiences. They are preventing us not only from heaven but from truly trusting God. What do you lack? What are you holding on to? Let it go! What is impossible with man is possible with God. 

Grief

Job just encountered the greatest lost of his life; seven children perished, all worldly possessions destroyed and sickness consumed his body from head to toe.

For some reason society believes that we should console one another by giving gifts or speaking politically correct words of condolences.  Here we read how Job's friends consoled him during his grief - by sitting silent for seven days and seven nights.

Consider your friends and family grieving; opposed of shallow words, try comforting them without speaking a word. Sit and meditate with them for one day or one hour. 

Confrontation can be deadly

A man sees a couple conversing loudly. He confronts the antagonist. Words are exchanged. A gun is fired. The antagonist, a father is dead. As Christians, Jesus charged us to help our neighbors, the poor, and even strangers (Matt.25:35). In doing so we have to use our Godly ability to make right decisions. Know when to let it go. Two lives lost because neither man knew how to walk away. Being a Christian is complicated. Ego, pride and emotions can cloud our judgement. Our tongues can be like fire (Jas 3:1-6). Sparking chaos which could become harmful, even detrimental. In the heat of confrontation, take a minute and pause. Allow the Holy Spirit to intervene. Learn to walk away, even if you are right. Live to see another day.  

Mental illness is real

Excuse me sir do you have some change, for to get something to eat?”

The woman with tattered clothes, matted hair and missing one eye,  lumbered through the train asking unconcerned passengers for change.  “Lord have mercy, I’m tired. I need sleep, but I can’t go to sleep I will miss my exit.” Mental illness is real. Spirits of the mind clash with reality causing an altered state of mind. We cast mentality Incapacitated people away never knowing how severe their pain. The man with many legions was also casted away to live among the dead (Luke 8:26-39) only Jesus could heal him. The restless One-eye woman lumbered her way back in my direction, plopping down in the sit in front of me. It was obvious she was mentally ill, The wrist band indicated her recent stay at Atlanta medical.  “Excuse me sir if I fall asleep please wake me up at the last stop.” I acknowledged and said I would. Mental illness does not magically erase morals or show empathy toward others. Despite her Illness she wanted empathy.  Can mental illness be cured? All things are possible through Christ if we asked. The last stop, I spoke to the woman asking her where she was trying to go. “I only want something to eat.” In parting I gave her some money. We prayed asking God to bless and heal her from her pain. 

You are a conqueror.

There was a time when I coped with life just to exist. I coaxed my mind that everything was okay. Pep talks and prayer were all to no avail. A consumed soul, teeming with self-inflected guilt, and disappointments. The mind is powerful. God can manifest all power in you, and your mind would convince you differently. The great prophet Elijah was no different. He called down the wrath of God on 450 of Baal’s prophets, (1Kings 18:16-45) yet he feared for his life simply because Jezebel said he would die in 24hrs (1kings 19:1-3). What are you telling yourself? Death or life is in the power of the tongue. Encourage yourself daily. Pray daily. Seek God. Trust God’s word. You are a  conqueror. 

Make an impact daily

You never know the impact that you have on others. You never know who is watching, listening, or reading what you post. Many who read my daily posts rarely comment. I must admit, it took time for me to not take it personally. There is something that YOU do that YOU feel is insignificant. Be assured it’s not. What you have devalued could be the one thing of value someone needs. I’m learning to   maintain my purpose in spite of the difficulty. In your daily walk, do the same. Always Let your light so shine before men, that they may see God in what you do. 

Producing for God

It’s so easy to lose focus on being productive for God. We get lost in helping others accomplish things but we neglect our Godly responsibilities. I’ve found myself postponing my gift. Finding every excuse not to birth what God has placed within me. Yesterday I had two meetings with friends. Both producers for God. They are givers. Encouragers. They sacrifice themselves for others. At each meeting, both spoke a profound message into my spirit. I was reminded, it’s time for me to produce again. God has given us all spiritual gifts (Rom12:6). These gifts are to encourage and build up the body of believers. 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. 

Turmoil, meltdowns and relationships

 

Turmoil & Meltdowns

Live in the Spirit not the flesh

 

Read: Romans 12:14-21

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18

 Good Morning!

Being mistreated or feeling betrayed is not favored by anyone.

Occasionally, we experience persecution. In our world, broken relationships abound, from hatred and contention to jealousy, anger, selfishness, and division.

 The church's body of believers may claim to live by “the spirit”, however, our actions demonstrate something contrary. Most of our time is spent living off the negative energy of the body.

  Paul spoke out against a life of indulgence. Things like strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, and disputes are found in Galatians 5:19-26. Our relationships can be plagued by turmoil and meltdowns, leading us to walk in the flesh instead of the Spirit.

 What steps do you take to defuse a situation? What can we do to fight the "hatred" or "anger" that has arisen in our spirit? Jesus commanded, "Love your enemies." Our mind and flesh urge us to react, prove our point, or seek vengeance. Striving for results guided by the Spirit is the right answer.

 We must not only live in the Spirit, but also walk in the Spirit. (Galatians 5:26) urges us not to be arrogant and to stop provoking one another.

 It is only through consistent practice and faith in God's word that strife can be overcome in all matters. Have faith. Pray continuously and God will guide you along the right path through the turbulent storm.

The burning fire within

Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise” is one of her most famous poems. It’s message depicts resiliency, strength, and beauty that oppressed people have encountered for years. Jesus’ life symbolizes the very words of Angelou’s poem. “With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I'll rise.” The crucifixion was meant to kill Jesus and his message. But in three days he rose. The Monday after Resurrection Sunday has significant meaning. It’s the day He told believers not to leave just yet. Wait for the ‘gift’ my father promised - The Holy Spirit (Acts1:3-5). Without the Holy Spirit our relationship with God would be useless- dead. The Holy Spirit is the conduit that connects us with Christ (Eph.2:5). The Spirit becomes our eyes and ears to understand the things of God (Jan 3:3, 1Co 2:12). Connect with God. Let the fire of the HolyvSpirit rise in you! 

3 words that keep you from greatness

These three words have hindered me most of my life. It has delayed me from activating God’s purpose for me! What you perceive in your mind and speak with your mouth can either hinder or propel you to greatness. Negative images and thoughts can be conquered through prayer, faith and trust in God. Whatever your hindrance, talk to God, pray and fight to overcome these three words. There is greatness in you!

#procrastination #doubt #fear