Listening to foolish advice is like the blind leading the blind

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

What gifts are you neglecting?

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

Get recharged

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

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

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

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

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

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

View all sides before making a decision

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

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

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

Fear begins in the mind

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

Current life disruptions distracts you from God

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

During times like these God’s word can bring peace

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

Making sense during uncertain times

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

Trust God in all things

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

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

Facing trying times don’t panic

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

Be anxious for nothing

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

God is not listening to our prayers

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

Now is the time to pray

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

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

+ Never-ending prayer [conversation]

+ Seeking to improve self spiritually

+Trust more in every word

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

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

Think of Job during the Coronavirus

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

Having tenacity for God

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

Love is kind. It never hates.

Babies are born with pure loving hearts. They have an innate ability of expressing true love with most they encounter. Their love is unconditional. The dislike of people because of the color of their skin, nationality, religion, sexual preference or a myriad of other things is a taught/learned behavior. What if God stopped loving us because of our past sins, or treated us the way many treat the aforementioned? God’s love for us is unconditional. He loves us in spite of our sins. To love does not mean you have to be bosom buddies with everyone. But it does mean whoever cannot love does not know God at all. 

Do not forget God

 Though we may be in a dark or humbling place in life, instead of complaining and crying out to God, we should trust in Him to lead us through the ordeal.

This is a great example of the children of Israel. Towards the end of their 40-year journey, God reminded them not to forget Him (Deut. 8). He reminded them that those years in the wilderness were to humble and test them to know what was in their hearts. From His guidance and protection throughout all those years, neither their clothes nor their shoes wore, and their feet did not swell. The years were humbling over time but the children were reminded that during their dark journey, God supplied them with all they needed: food, protection, clothing, and guidance.

When we forget, God is disappointed with us. The job you prayed for, the escape from an abusive relationship, or the sustenance you had when money was low - these are the things for which you are grateful. Through what has God brought you? With what are you struggling, and why are you going through it alone? 

It is after these miraculous things we tend to forget God. When we don't remember God and begin to worship and idolize material things (false gods), He has promised to testify against us and we shall perish. Forget not the Lord. Remember how He led you through your wilderness. Trust in Him and He will lead you through.

Stop judging. Show compassion.

One overt problem that plagues the church today is self-centeredness and a judging spirit. Simon the Pharisee seemed to believe Jesus was a prophet (Luke 7:39). Yet it appears his dinner party was more for self gratification. In the Church we find showy Pharisees who praise God yet when an “obvious” sinner enters the doors they cast judgement. Christians forget who Jesus spent time with. Jesus showed compassion to the outcasts, Not the righteous. We are all sinners. We could never pay God enough to cover our sins yet he has forgiven. Learn to forgive. Learn to love and show compassion just as Jesus did. 

It’s time to lose your religion

Religion has ran many people away from God. Our judgmental attitudes and preconceived thoughts of people have caused us to lose souls that could have been won! The Pharisee Simon in the story of the sinful woman depicts most Christians (Luke 7:36-50). We see the faults of others and refuse to accept them because of their sinful past. Stop judging. Remember your past was not sin free! Someone had to forgive and accept you! Be loving. Be kind. Be forgiving, just like Christ. 

Which path to take?

There is a fork in the road. Which path should you take? Your way or God’s way? 

Our path is led by our own understanding. Our desires. Short lived hopes and expectations. God’s path is often not the most traveled but it yields the greatest reward. Wisdom and most importantly God’s protection. David lacked for nothing as long as he seeked God. David working without God kept him in perpetual fear and constant running. Solomon had an opportunity to ask for anything in the world yet he asked for wisdom (1kings 3:7-13). Today you face a fork in the road. Job, relationship, finance, or health. The list goes on. Make a conscious decision right now to take GOD’S WAY and NOT YOUR WAY. Seek God. Trust God. Lean not to your understanding. Acknowledge him. He will direct your path. His word is a lamp, a guide to your path. Take God’s path. 

Facing life’s good and bad situations

   

Good Morning!

"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."  The world has changed so much during our lifetime. It's a sad sight to see. The skies are grey and the waters are polluted.  It's also a stark reminder of how careless we have become with our environment and how much we need to change if we want to see blue skies again.

 

Life can be difficult and filled with sorrow, but it is important to remember that you will endure. Just as a flower needs both the sun and the rain to grow, so too do we need both the good and the bad in our lives. It is wonderful that even though they are opposites, they are both essential to our growth. With this in mind, you can be sure that even in the toughest of times, you will be able to make it through because God's word reminds us of that. He said that he is our refuge and that He would never leave us nor forsake us.

 

“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 and it is up to us to decide how to handle them. Marvin Gaye and Frankie Beverly have poetically enlightened us of life’s balances through song, reminding us that we can’t have good without bad or joy without pain.

 

God also made it clear through Solomon in Ecclesiastes 7:14, that no matter what comes to pass in life, we should be happy during the good times as well as the bad. It is up to us to choose how we want to deal with the situations we are confronted with, and it is important to remember that we can always look to music and scripture for guidance.

Be a testimony for God

God has a way of getting our attention. And when he does the experience can be life changing. A young man I see often in passing told he had been shot five times - three times in the arm and twice in the back. For the young man The ordeal, only a week old and still impressionable, kept thanking God for saving him. For this young man, it took a near fatal encounter to recognize God’s grace and mercy. The young man’s blessing was he lived another day to tell me of how God blessed and saved his life. It should not take a tragic moment before you testify of God’s goodness. Every testimony given becomes a blessing for someone. Go and tell the good news. Allow God to use 

you as a testimony for others. 

You are the apple of God’s eye

God has not dealt with us according to transgressions. Stop and think of all the things you have done. If God would have punished us according to our sins we would not be here. David broke just about every commandment of God. Yet God still thought of David as a man after his heart (1 Sam. 13:14). David’s life’s circumstances we long. His self-inflicting conflicts often pulled him away from God. He tried dealing with the issues his way and not God’s way. Psalms 17:w8 reminds us that despite life’s Turmoils you can always call on God. David prayed asking that he can remain the ‘apple of God’s eye’. That means David realizes he is already the apple of God’s eye. God is watching over him. God knows all and sees all. He is waiting on us to be like David. Go humbly unto God ask for forgiveness. Despite all the sins David committed, he knew how to seek God’s forgiveness. God has not dealt with us according to our iniquities yet he continues to bless us. That’s Grace & Mercy. 

Facing Giants alone

One of the most popular stories in the Bible is David and Goliath. The GIANT that terrified an entire nation. We all face GIANTS individually and as a nation. Some would argue war, drugs, or gang violence is today’s GIANT. Others may debate our president is our GIANT. Regardless of what it is, it’s how you face the GIANT that matters. David never saw Goliath as a GIANT yet the people ran with fear every time they saw him (1 Sam. 17:24.) Today is no different, whenever our ‘GIANTS’ appear on the news we cry out in fear. David was not in denial, he knew Goliath was a GIANT, standing over 9 feet tall (1 Sam. 17:4.) He focused on GOD his source not the GIANT the problem. David spoke continuously over his GIANT with GOD’S word (1Sam. 17:45-46.) What GIANTS are you facing? As a child of God and as a church family, face the GIANT like David. Speak over the GIANTS with GOD’S word. Stop speaking what you see but speak with what you know and believe; The Word of GOD. Walk by faith not by sight. 

Maintain your peace

Keeping your thoughts on God is the easiest way to maintain peace. Peace is the one thing no one can ever take from you. However when the days of dismay roll in and you focus on the problems and not God you will lose your peace. When Jesus walked on water the disciples became fearful like many of us do when strange things happen in life. When chaos rise, do as Jesus told the disciples “take courage! Don’t be afraid” (Matt. 14:27).  Of course we question God like Peter did. “Lord, if it’s you,” tell me to come to you on the water” (Matt. 14:28.) the most important part of life and Peter’s miraculous water walking; as long as he kept his eyes on Jesus he walked on water. It’s when he took his eyes off and starting doing it his way he begin to sink. 

No matter where you are in life don’t lose your peace. Keep all eyes on God. If you happen to blink too long, know Jesus is right there ready to reach out his hand and catch you! 

Will you die for Jesus?

As American “Christians” we don’t talk or give much thought of dying in the name Of Jesus. In my opinion, more emphasis are placed on material things and what God can do for us opposed to thinking about dying in the name of Jesus. Truth be told we are selfish about living. What would you do if a stranger was in need? Would you sacrifice yourself and help? Would you think twice before rescuing a drowning person, pull a victim from a burning house or die a martyrs death in the name of Jesus? We don’t talk about these things, but people in many countries around the world die or is placed in prison daily because of their Christian faith. While Churches are destroyed or vandalized worldwide we boast of our walk with Jesus, how deep our faith is and the steadfastness of “as long as I have King Jesus” everything is ok. I pose the question again, what would you do if faced with any of these scenarios? Would you face death like John the Baptist (Matt. 14:1-13)? Or would you deny Christ so that you may live? Don’t be afraid to acknowledge God especially when facing death. It is written; Everyone who acknowledges Christ publicly on earth, He will acknowledge before his Father in heaven. But he who denies, will also be denied before God (10:31-33). There will come a day many of us will be persecuted in the name of Jesus. Will you deny yourself, bear the cross and die for Christ or deny Christ so you can spare your life. The choice is yours. One day we all will have to reply. One way or another. 

It’s ok to forgive

There is an unwillingness to forgive from most people. Their refusal to forgive becomes a continuous reminder of the past which siphons life, growth, and happiness. Forgiveness is more about healing you not the other person. Forgiveness enables God to heal you mentally, and spiritually. We are reminded of how important it is to forgive each time you recite The Lord’s Prayer. When we learn to forgive others God will also forgive our wrongs/sins (Mat. 6:9-15). Otherwise when we choose not to forgive, why should God forgive you? For every hurt encountered only you know the pain and sorrow suffered. But Every effort must be made to align with God’s word. It’s okay to forgive so you can heal. You don’t have to face the person to forgive just tell God! You forgive so that you can be forgiven and begin healing with God. 

Let go of the past

You are 18 days into 2020 what have you let go of from 2019? Have you picked it up again? One of the most difficult things to give up is anger. Anger can lead to the blame game which causes arguing and always wanting to be right. An unwillingness to forgive will eventually destroy a perfectly good relationship. Remember, Whatever you focus on you strengthen. What’s in your heart flows out your mouth. From the fruits of your mouth you are either filled with good or bad words. Before you blame someone take ownership of situation. Learn not to argue. Be quite. Walk away. Most important stop arguing. Say a quick prayer. There will be days when it's HARD to PRAY. That's the time to PRAY.

You have a ministry!

Call it would you want, we all have a ministry. Through the world’s secular lens, they are recognized as gifts, talents, and skill sets. However we paint the picture, in God’s eyes it’s our ministry!  With our gift it’s our responsibility to shine light into darkness. Our gifts are tools to help others to see God’s awesomeness! Through our gifts we become a conduit to connect others to God. We were not given talents to hide or for self gratification (Matt 25:14–30). They are to be used according to our ability to help others. The journey will not be easy. We will be pressured mentally, physically, and spiritually, but not crushed. Verbally persecuted but not destroyed. WE have a ministry so don’t lose heart (2 Cor. 4:1). Let your light shine so your gifts may seen. 

Enjoying God

Have you ever noticed people intentionally or unintentionally beckons others to join them in Praise? If it’s the acknowledgement of a person; “isn’t she beautiful?” The recognition of a spectacular sport event; “did you see that catch!?” Whatever the occasion, we express some form of enjoyment and praise. God’s requests from us are easy. We make them tough to implement. God asked us to take delight in him (Psalm 37:4). Taking delight means that we should gain satisfaction, enjoy him, and have some form of pleasure in doing so. We spend more time complaining, questioning, or requesting from God. Just as we find ways to express joy for carnal activities, find time to express joy to God. Praise him in your quite space as well as in public. Just as we express enjoyment for entertainment likewise do it for God. In return for your joyful expression, God will give you the desires of your heart. In all things do it willingly. 

Before I die....

We don’t talk about death until we encounter its sting. Conversations about death are avoided, yet we are born to die. Over the holidays several family members and friends were called home. Some from sickness, longevity of life and some from senseless and violent deaths. Each caused a chasm in the heart which no word can fill. Only time and God. We spend countless hours worrying about Frivolous things which don’t bring true joy: money, jobs, and bills. We find excuses why we don’t take trips to see friends and loved ones. We lose focus of God’s gifts to us. LIFE, love, and family. Death has reminded me, LIFE is about living well every day you have been given. It has reminded me to think about what has brought meaning to my LIFE. Today, I challenge you to Reconnect to what brought you Godly joy. If it’s family, reconnect with loved ones as Jacob requested to do with his son, Joseph (Genesis 45:28.) whatever the joy, reconnect. Don’t let death be the only family gathering time. 

Thanksgiving the perfect time for memories

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to share memories. As you spend time with family friends and loved ones enjoy every moment. Take pictures and embrace one another. Take time to share memories and hold on to the memories.  Happy Thanksgiving. 

Who is on your team?

Who is on your team? 

A #team is everyone should have people on your team! #Entrepreneurs, #creators, life coaches all should have a support team. If they just wear your  jersey and don’t help they are not team players! They are cheerleaders or fans in the stand. Surround yourself with true supporters those who #motivate #encourage, inspire, and share ideas.  These people are your team. Love and cherish them. Most important, thank them for being on the team.

Moved by the Holy Spirit

Homelessness is an epidemic in America. We all have encountered someone asking for money, food, or some far fetched plea. Based on what most people see they condemn and do nothing. I have learned not to be moved by what I see but by how the Holy Spirit moves in me! Jesus could have healed, and fed, far more people but  He only performed miracles as he was moved (Isaiah 11:2–3). You will continue to stumble upon homeless people, family, coworkers, and friends partitioning for help. Remove self judgment. Base your response on how the Holy Spirit leads you to respond to their request. Our love for others should be without hypocrisy, be kind to others with brotherly love and steadfastly pray Thes 5:12-18. 

The power of compassion

There is someone you know who needs to hear from you. Call and encourage them today. Letting someone know you where thinking about them can turn a bad day into an awesome day. The power of compassion can change the world. 

Good fruit or bad fruit?

In the midst of an argument, people tend to say words to either verbally hurt someone or fulfill their personal gratification. The fruits of the mouth can fill your belly (Prov. 18:20), but the outcome can cause a lifetime stomach ache. Be mindful of the words you speak. 

Many relationships and even lives have been forsaken because of the bad fruits that flow from the mouth. What comes out of the mouth, often comes from what’s in the heart. If hurtful and vindictive words flow off the tongue with ease, they have been brewing in the heart (spirit) for some time. In all things strive to be Christ like. A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Chose your words wisely.

Decisions

For most decisions made in life, we already know the answer. The problem is we choose to accept the punishment even when it’s not a favorable outcome. As a child I loved birthday cake! One year my antsy cake fixation got the best of me. Despite many warnings of “don’t touch the cake” and the known wrath of mom’s belt, I decided to take a pinch of cake anyway. One sample turned into two deep finger craters deep into the vanilla cake. Whatever the situation, we are often faced with a Dilemma. The flesh desires what it is contrary to the spirit (Gal. 5:17). The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful (Heb. 12:11). Whatever the situation, Repent! Don’t let your desires be your downfall to salvation. 

The master of deception

The trickery of Satan will have you on a guilt trip. Focusing on past mistakes and sins. Forgetting God’s promise, when we confess our sins he will forgive and cleanse the unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Though committed, our mistakes and sins have purpose. Sins can become testimonies to help others. God can take all events, good & bad and use for his purpose. Your sin that was intended to destroy can be transformed to good. All things God works for the good For those who love the Lord (Rom. 8:28). Stop letting Satan trick you. 

Take time to rest

Good night 

There are 14,400 minutes in a day. For some, they try to use every second doing something. Learn to use your time wisely. Jesus routinely rested between sermons or miracles. He also suggested to the disciples to follow him to a quite place and get some rest (Mrk. 6:31). Rest means to turn off phones, TV, or anything that will distract you. Find a solitary place (Mrk. 6:34). Take time to recharge. God can not use a tired worn vessel. 

Be humble

For most people it’s easier to say I’m humble than to implement. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector can be misconstrued if not careful (Lk 18:9-14). We read of the “humble” Pharisee who prays to God thanking him for what he is not- evildoer, robber, adulterer, and not like him 👇🏾, the tax collector. The “humility” of the tax collector appears genuine, he asked for God’s mercy for he is a sinner. So what’s the issue? God wants us to be humble, acknowledge our sins, and pray for his Grace & Mercy. The dilemma is this, Humility is like trying to stand and balance yourself on a ball. If you sway too far either side you will fall into focusing more on you than God. The key to true humility is to focus more of our time and thoughts on almighty God, rather than boasting of not being like Pharisees or tax collectors. 

Be persistent

Faith – it cannot be felt, tasted, touched, or seen yet we believe. Faith begins where reasoning ends. The parable of the persistent widow (Lk 18:1-8), illustrates how deep her faith was and how Her steadfastness prevailed. For many, all hope would have faded at the first rejection. After a few more denials, they would revert back to their own understanding, disbelief in man, and doubtfulness in God’s capabilities. 

Faith is a way of life. It’s a life of fearing God, respecting neighbor, trusting in God’s goodness and power, even while being surrounded by injustice.

Life’s challenge is how to live in this cruel unjust society loving neighbor, seeking to do justice, and trusting that in the end God’s will shall be done? God hears your prayers. He knows your situation and pain. Through prayer, never give up. God answers prayers in his own time. It’s through faith we don’t lose heart. ❤️

Underestimating God’s power

There is something someone has been grappling with for some time.  It could be a job, family issues, lost dreams, or health. Despite your continuous efforts to stay positive, prayed up and in the word, faith’s fire of hope is dimming. Never underestimate the power of God! You may recall when Jesus made wine at the wedding (Jn 2:1-11), where he made the best wine! It takes years to make good wine. Yet Jesus makes the best batch instantaneously.  Whatever you are going through, be it one year or 20 years God can change it instantly. Don’t lose faith. 

Every journey is not smooth

Blessings are often missed because we select our plans opposed to God’s plan. When our clarion prayers are answered we second guess God’s response. No matter how tough the journey learn to trust God and walk in faith. For every hard task rejected because  we believe it will cost pain or struggle it has a sweet in it. By not doing it, we miss the blessing from God. For every heavy load we are asked to carry, God will provide the needed strength and guidance. Seek God in everything thing. Pray. Study the word. Allow God to order your steps (Ps 119:133-136) and his word to be a lamp under your feet, and a light unto my path (Ps. 119:105).  Be encouraged. 

Does your soul leak?

One does not know a roof leaks until it rains.  Likewise, Christians go through life oblivious of leaks in their soul until the storms of affliction come. It is then we find unbelief, fear, and impatience, seeping from within our carnal minds. It exposes the true depth of our faith. It’s when the flood gates of distress are opened and life’s trials are thrusted upon us do we realize defects in our spiritual armor. Save me God for the waters come unto my soul (Ps. 69:1). It’s during these times we must tread the stormy waters and trust God. For he holds all the waters in his hands. Your struggles are only a test to reveal your spiritual needs. The leaks can be  repaired by prayer, Faith building, and yielding to the Holy Spirit.

What do people really want?

MONEY, independence, security, MONEY, attention, love, MONEY. Many people desire at least one of these attributes in life. Some put emphases on MONEY & INDEPENDENCE. While others want ATTENTION & LOVE. Once people receive their desire the question that still remains, WHAT DO PEOPLE REALLY NEED? God. So much emphasis is placed in storing up earthly treasures and little focus on God. If your heart is focused on things you exclude God. 

How do you start your day?

How do you start your day? 

Do you check emails, social media, turn on the TV or radio first? Do you head to the kitchen to make coffee, or prepare lunches for the children? Prayer should be the first action of the day, it is essential to a healthy relationship with God. Jesus prayed often. He started his day rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark to pray (Mark 1:35). David rose early to also pray. Before the day’s chaos overwhelms you set the tone for your day. Pray. Before you get out of bed whisper a prayer to God thanking him for waking you up! While sitting on the edge of the bed, opposed to complaining, say a little prayer for community, health, joband family. While brushing your teeth and taking a shower, ask God to pour into you his will. Prayer should be continuous conversation with God.The way your day start is very important. Prayer can change your attitude for the day! Take time to pray daily. 

God can restore life again!

Someone reading this devotional is going through difficult times. You could be experiencing job loss, physical disability, or family crisis. If not careful, the outward man will focus MORE on the problem and LESS on God. Just like Job, We often search for reasons for our lamentations. Yet in fact, the suffering could be leading one closer to God (Heb. 12:4-11), building character (Jas. 1:2-6), or an opportunity to glorify God (Jn. 9:1-3). Whatever the cause, don’t lose heart. Fix your eyes on what is unseen. (2cor. 4:16-17). Though you don’t know how to relate to the cause, always remember to proclaim God’s mighty acts. He can restore life again! (Ps. 71:15-20)

You can edit your life on social media

People edit their lives daily on social media to be socially accepted. How would you react if every thought from the past six months flashed across the Internet for all to see?  If such a thing was possible you would runaway forever. You may hide your true thoughts from man but you can’t hide from God. No matter how much you attempt to conceal, your true thoughts the true character of a person is in the heart. For as a man thinks in his heart so is he (Prov. 23:7). Take time to adhere to God’s recipe for your life (Phil. 4:8) whatever is true, noble, pure, excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.