God is Omnipresent at 8 a.m.

Driver walked way from this accident

Parents are over come by fear and emotional turmoil when a telephone ring echoes extremely loud while incredibly close during the darkest hour of a night.  In a split second the mind is consumed with every negative conceivable thought known to man. It is always a blessing as well as a relief to find out all is well or better yet a person had dialed in error the wrong number. 

I firmly believe in the power of prayer.  Most recently my dear friend had a testimony on this area under discussion of phone calls and prayer. Setting the scene: Harold and I always begin our conversation with a positive affirmation; me, asking how he is doing followed by his sincere statement “it’s the best day of my life”, which always brings a smile to my face.  On this night, nothing was any different except this time his tone was concise and clearly expressed.

A testimony is a public declaration regarding a religious experience, which I may add, we never know how God will move or bless a person’s life from such encounters.  There is no rhyme or reason and not to leave out God often times don’t make sense of his decisions.  Harold told me his son was in a terrible accident.  Of course, as a parent, friend, and most importantly a Christian my heart dropped with a hope that all was well.  The infamous call came one Sunday morning at 9 o’clock a.m., with the grim news “your son and three friends were in a terrible accident.”  One cannot imagine the sinking filling which overcomes a person when such calls come be it day or night.  Experiencing a horrid death or illness telephone call is indescribable; the emotions and thoughts which run a mile a second through your mind cannot be explained. Until you personally experience one my commentary will never make sense. Sadly, individuals attempt to pay their respects yet fall short because they don’t know how to address those who are suffering or grieving correctly. It is not until such situations personally knock on their door that they will finally get it. Well this is another article for a later date… 

The bible demonstrates many examples of the power of prayer:  God answering many of Moses' prayers, parting the Red Sea Exodus 14:13-22, God agreed to spare Sodom and Gomorrah if Abraham could find ten righteous people Genesis 18:22-32.  Daniel spent his whole life praying and was ultimately thrown in the lions den because he would not stop praying to God and worship the king. Because he continually prayed God spared him Daniel 6:4-24 God miraculously answered the prayers of the early Christians by sending an angel to free Peter from prison Acts 12:5-10.  In contrast, Jesus prayer at Gethsemane clearly showed him praying if it was possible, the hour might pass from him Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou will Mark 14:32-42. Jesus prayer was not granted. Nevertheless, through out the bible there are countless situations of people praying and God responding. Like wise we are afforded the opportunity of partitioning God directly in prayer.  So, if you don’t get anything else from this testimonial learn how and remember to pray daily. As stated, there is power in prayer…

This brings me back to my friend Harold, who was up praying at 8 o’clock a.m Sunday morning, thanking God for all his blessings, the very same day his son played bumper cars with a concrete median.  Harold went on to say he appealed a special prayer to cover his son that morning.  One can only imagine the feeling of such a conversation when a police officer tells you of an accident.  In this case, thank God, everyone was okay. The officer duly noted, “It was a miracle that everyone walked away with only scratches and shaken nerves considering the entire left side was completely demolished. Our dialog ended with “God is omnipresent he was covering my son at the time I was praying” Stated Harold.  I’m sending you a photo of the car so you can see how great God is…

The lesson learned is to pray without ceasing thanking God and never taking anything for granted.  Will God answer all your request maybe, maybe not the point is to always pray and seek to be in God’s will. And by all means it is always a joyous moment for a parent knowing their child has cheated death during a horrific traffic altercation. Now, besides praying and talking about my friend’s testimony, what makes this story so wondrous, Harold’s son accident occurred at  8 o’clock a.m. the same time Harold was praying!

Tigner Rand

Don't Give up! Your Best is Yet to Come



Juggling responsiblities

Negative words are powerful

During my impressionable years of Catholic School I heard negative prophesying from nuns.  Despite my parents motivating and encouraging there were other deterring adults and so called role models stating “Old bad Tigner Rand is not going to amount to nothing.” Like a spoonful of medicine without sugar, I ingested these words. The mind visualized, accepted, and ultimately squeezed life out of my God given abilities. Today, regardless of my faults, short comings and what others said about me God saw the best in me while others claimed the worst.

A moth’s mind

Confusion invaded the spirit followed by years of weeping, wailing, and questioning God about life. I quit quite attending church. During the painful seclusion from weekly worship I continued praying. The human mind is like a moth, unable to grasp or understand Our Heavenly Father’s plan.

One cold and rainy Sunday God laid on my heart “how can you ask me for all your desires when you cannot spend one day praising my name.” The message was profound; it was the rebirth of me. I vowed that moment not to miss church again unless I was sick or traveling for work. I finally got it! The relationship was rekindled.

Pessimistic Christians

Someone reading this had experienced a boat load of tears and tried to comprehend why life has dealt one bad situation after another. News flash, God is trying to get your attention! There was time I felt the same way. While my world was crumbing, God was still holding me up.  Leaning me up on my bad side so I can now stand today and say how grateful I am for his mercy.

Answer this question

What is the state of your relationship with Christ?  Sure, you have a relationship but what is the status; stranger, acquaintance, or friend? A relationship is more than just a daily short prayer or complaint about what you don’t have. The friendship of God is with those who reverence him; and he will show them his covenant. Psalms 25:14 

 Yearning for your love

God yearns to be your friend. It’s spending time conversing with The Father no different than talking to your BFF. It is communing with the Holy Spirit while commuting to work, cooking, showering, or throughout the work day (praying without ceasing).  Your connection grows as you spend time reading the word.

Thumbs up for God

Fine Wine instantly

In the Second chapter of John, Jesus revealed his glory when he changed water into wine. God’s supernatural was done instantly. What normally took years to make great wine Jesus did in a matter of seconds. Jesus told the servants to fill the jars to the brim, now take to the head of the banquet. When the master tasted the water it had been turned to wine John 2:6-9.

You currently sit defeated and bewildered. You are at the end of your rope, life is over, and I’m too old. Stop, read, and comprehend John 2: 1-11 again. If Jesus can make water to taste like 20 year old wine instantly,  just imagine what he can  bring forth from you!

Brothers and sisters, seek God with all your heart today set aside all your material desires all things you are praying for that are not of God. I challenge you to pray for wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Pray for a relationship, asking the Trinity to be part of your life.  I dare you to implement this on a daily bases so God can reveal himself to you!

A work in progress

I am a phenomenal person, nothing like the negative outlaw prescribed for me. It took years of dedication before I could tune in with God and accept the change.  Knowing God’s word proclaimed it: “Knowing now I have been made new in the attitude of my mind and can do all things through Christ that strengthened me!”

God sees the best in you even when you only see the worst. Establish a deep rooted Bond with the Father; your best is yet to come.

Tigner Rand

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God Shows Favor to the Humble

Pastor Charles Westmorland
Image by: Tigner J.

Seeing a man in a humble state says a lot about his character; their qualities distinguish them from others and they typically stand out in a crowd. During the announcement for this year’s 43^rd annual Dove Awards  I actually detected modesty, after witnessing a gentleman demonstrating what Jesus stated; let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, Mat. 5:16. that man turned out to be gospel recording artist of Pastor Charles Westmorland. Humility can have a lasting impression.

Paul spoke of humility to the People of Philippi and Romans: Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves, Phil. 2:3-11  for by the grace given me I say to everyone; do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment. These passages matches up to what Charles displayed during this note-worthy event (Hind sight is truly twenty-twenty.)   I saw a man with distinguished character of sorts while interviewing Jamie-Grace, new artist of the year nominee, in comparison to other reporters buzzing about the room like busy bees. My thought, he had to be working for someone other than himself.  One lesson I learned through my walk with Christ if you see a person doing a great thing; family, friend, or stranger, compliment them, people frequently hear negative and not enough kind accolades.

After a quick introduction my speculation was true, besides being a singer with the Charles Westmorland Chorale, he was on assignment interviewing for the internet radio show, The Circuit with Valerie where he has a featured segment called “The power up moment.”  The Circuit gives Charles a platform to provide practical application to daily challenges listeners face based on scripture.  What I saw firsthand now makes sense as to why his light shown so bright!  I had to let it be known that Charles’ humility was visible; his light was not hiding under any bushel. 

What I perceived, from my initial observation as humility in a stranger became a lesson of what the rewards can be for a person who submits humbly unto God.  Charles stated, he is currently not singing professionally even though his intent was to sing forever. It was a struggle, a tug-a-war wanting to pursue music yet God was pulling him into Ministry.  The turning point came from lessons taught at an early age “the best place you can ever be is in the will of God”

As immortal humans we often struggle in this area of trying to out wit God by wanting our desires answered on our scheduled yet when they come back delayed we question God.   As the saying goes; ‘if you want to make God laugh tell Him your plans.’ The number one struggle in a person’s Christian walk is learning how to submit to God’s Will, and giving up the control.  We lay out goals and visions for ourselves while never consulting God about His master plan.  It is God who directs the lives of his creatures, Rom. 12:2 and not us directing or tell God what to do.  By committing and meekly coming before the Lord he will provide the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4-5

Pastor Westmoreland made it clear, once he submitted and realized that his music would have to be put on hold, God begin to shift and show there was more than just a word in song, there is a word/message in preaching.  For the past year, Westmorland, and wife Deloris, has been the full-time Pastors at Restoration Ministries in Jonesboro, Georgia. Rest a sure “[congregation] people know that the music is word based and high spirited throughout the worship service and that Charles has a passion to get the message out not only through song but through word.

No matter where you are right now; in a struggle, hopeless, a storm, or wilderness, the first step is to submit to God’s Will and form a relationship.  So for those who are fighting and resisting God, pursue a strong bond with Him it increases ones faith and you will begin to find where God’s true faith actually lie. For each step you take in your walk of faith; from ankle deep, to knee deep, waist deep, until you are wading in the deepest part of the ocean God will provide away.  Get in His will. As Pastor Westmoreland illustrated, once in the will, “God allows you to move into what he has for your life.” So when you reach a barrier or crossroad, “the provisions you need will be at every juncture.” If God is telling you to move in a certain direction go, as stated earlier when you get to every juncture he will make a way.

As for Charles’ music, the mantle has been passed on to his son Darius Westmoreland who has started to write and produce music, some of which is song during weekly church service. Parents are always proud of their children, especially Charles and Deloris Westmorland because their music now lives through their son; “It’s like God morphed a bit of me and a pinch of that from his mother and created a 21^st century musical talent”.

Restoration Ministries is located at 3057 Walt Stephens Rd. Jonesboro, Rd. 30236. Weekly services start at 1:30 P.M.

The Circuit with Valerie, an internet radio show that features hot topics and Gospel music. Check it out Sun.@9am and Wed. @2pm on freedemradio.com

 

Tigner J.

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A Father & Son Bond: Golf and Varsity Hot Dogs

Recently, I took a business trip out of town and as usual the flight from Orlando to Atlanta was full, thank God for early seat assignment, because nobody takes pleasure in being the man in the middle seat, it is like a dentist drilling in your mouth without Novocain. As I joined two gentlemen who were already settled for take-off, my intent was to get situated and sleep. After numerous attempts of uncomfortable adjustments in my confined yet plush seating arrangements on Delta’s 757, I was finally sitting shoulder to shoulder, when the man in the middle seat commented, “it must be hard traveling [based on your size],” my reply was yes.


It is not unusual or uncommon for passengers to strike up conversation prior to take off however, once airborne pleasantries typically fade into cabin silence and jet engine noise. This flight took on a slightly different quest; I met Henry and John, father and son. There was something special about these men besides their gentle spirit, and southern drawl it was their kindred friendship more commonly found in life long childhood friends, yet this bond was between father and son. Every man who has a son long for such fellowship, it was a wonderful sight to see a father and son sitting side by side talking and enjoying each other’s company.

At first glance I assumed both were traveling on business until John enlightened me of their two day adventure hitting the prestigious links of ARNOLD PALMER’S BAY HILL CLUB & LODGE in Florida, which by the way is home of Palmer’s annual Golf Invitational where such greats as KJ Choi, Sergio Garcia, Phil Mickelson, and Tiger Woods have fared well. I could hear their excitement as each man tagged teamed discussing their adventure of playing Bay Hill, all while capturing a photo of Golf Legend Arnold Palmer and not to leave out a snapshot of his custom made golf cart. Through the duration of our flight, I heard passion from a son who loved spending time with his father and in between quick glances out the window and short moments of child amazement; father also expressed the joy of spending time with son.

As we flew over the imaginary state line of Florida and Georgia, our channel of communication was filled with more sport adventures from Georgia and Texas football, to baseball back to golf. The more in-depth our conversation became, my spirit was sensing a deeper connection greater than three men talking sports. It’s funny how God’s plan differs from your own when you allow Him to take charge. At one moment I allowed self to get in the way by not wanting to ask the not so popular question about God yet I could feel His presence; when three or more come together in my name I am there… Like Tiger sizing up a forty foot putt, I finally asked, “What do you attribute to your close relationship?” John replied family, church, honoring your mother and father, as well as God. After another quick glance out the window of God’s sky-blue, father, Henry interjected mostly God; He has been the center of our life.

What is the status of your family relationship? So many families have been destroyed due to a house divided, filled with anger, bitterness and strife. The Father Son and Holy Spirit have been locked out causing love not to live there anymore. Ego and pride has caused families to slide off course of Christ’s green fairways of life because three difficult words: I love you, sorry and help me. Jesus word clearly states do not let the sun go down on anger Eph. 4:26. Life is too short for families to harbor disagreements which give place for the devil.

The take away from this encounter, God don’t make mistakes there was a reason for our conversation, in which I appreciate God allowing our connection, secondly, I witnessed a strong presence of love, which is the key to a happy life. Just through our brief interaction, love is very relevant to their relationship. I saw a son who enjoyed his father and a father, who is now retired, cherishing his son. So often we speak of our love for others yet we never implement the action which is required with Love such as this duo. John stated he told his wife he does it for his father while Henry echoed his wife believes he is doing it for the son. But I know otherwise they do it for each other. Their long talks of sports, leisure times playing golf or just enjoying each other’s company is priceless.

Atlanta's The Varsity - V

As the pilot announced “please prepare for our approach landing” I asked John where did he see himself five years from now, with a slight smile on his face he was content as to where he is now and if he could spend more time like this with his father ,” I would not change a thing”. Which lead to asking what was the next planned destination, as of now nothing, just a stop by the world famous Varsity before heading home. It’s something about the big red ‘V’ for Varsity in Midtown Atlanta, its nostalgia has an alluring effect on natives and adults in their golden years just like Henry who was excited to make a pit stop for a chili dog and a P.C. (that’s Varsity lingo for Plain chocolate milk served with ice). Well on second thought John took a mulligan, a do over this time it will be dogs and water.

As we reached the dog leg of our conversation, we shook hands and parted by saying we will be praying for each other. While watching my row mates go their separate ways I could not help but to reminisce of the times my dad and I shared together. Now older and wiser I think of the words he left for me a month before giving up the ghost; take hold of my words with all your heart, keep my commands and you will live. Get Wisdom and understanding. I also miss the times we spent talking and eating some of his mystery dishes. One thing for sure my new friends in Christ had a great time playing a round golf and experiencing the everlasting chorus; "What'll ya have? What'll ya have? What'll ya have? Have your order in your mind and your money in your hand!" Make sure to take another trip for two Father Henry and Son John continue enjoying life, sports and a pair dogs all the way!

Tigner James

Talents & Faith God's winning combination over Gambling

Football and gambling

Do not wear yourself out to get rich;    do not trust your own cleverness.  Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone,    for they will surely sprout wings    and fly off to the sky like an eagle.  Proverbs 23:4-5

 What is the obsession with gambling?  Is it the chance of risking money on a game or skill hoping to win?  Well isn’t that called luck?  People gamble or take chances on everything under the sun. It stands to reason many bets will be placed on Super Bowl 46 when the National Football League’s New England Patriots and New York Giants face off Sunday, February 5th. People have placed odds on: who is going to win or loose, the odds of heads over tails during the coin toss, or if Kelly Clarkston will sing longer than the allotted time for the National Anthem. What is the fascination of gambling?  There are all type of gamblers; high risk takers who get an adrenalin rush reaching for unobtainable dreams of Americana riches, glory and 15 minutes of fame, the poor man who beats the daily lottery or social gamblers who play a weekly hand of Tonk.  These Individuals spend a life time grasping for a money pie in the sky.  Citizens of America, you can’t beat the house! Casinos and state lotteries have it set where they are the winners not you. 

The risks of  gambling

With all being said the parable about talents come to mind where the king who gave talents or money to his servants Matt. 25:14-30 .  He gave a modest share to each ranging from 5 to 1 share.  It could be a fair assumption that these men where risk takers by investing their talents/monies in various ways. Let’s assume that some invested in real estate, continuing education/training of their talents mutual funds, stocks or bonds of the times.  And there was the sole servant who felt slighted cheated because he received only one talent.  Opposed to taking risks in any way he opted to bury or set it aside.  How many of us fall in to this category too afraid to take a chance, by stepping out in faith and seeking God?

The point I’m trying to make is there are people who gamble frivolously  with no other ambition but to get rich or hustle someone just as we also find the others  who seizes opportunity with their talents by manifesting and making them grow all for the glory and honor of God.  So much so their blessings are pressed down shaken and running over not only blessing themselves but others around.  Their store houses or bank accounts have great returns thus allowing them to bless others.  At the end of the day I truly believe if we nurture and grow the talents God has given each and everyone of us you to can rep a harvest.

Super Bowl 46, as a Cowboy fan it is hard for me to fix my mouth to say such blasphemy, however, I where a beating man, I would place my bet on the New York Giants.  Hey the odds are in my favor, New England has won all championships by three points and the Las Vegas has the Giants by three so by these odds I can only win.  - Tigner J.

Life has no Easy Buttons

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize?  Run in such a way that you may obtain it.  1 Corinthians 9:24

 

Making no bones about it, we have been taught since being knee high to fire hydrants that the shortest distance between point A and B is to get there as fast as possible.  This means, taking the path of lest resistance, such as a straight line not going around the block to reach a goal or destination.   In business we often hear short cuts can lead to disasters, and much frustration.  Yet time and time again, society searches for quick fixes to riches, fame, weight loss, superficial beauty you name we want it now not tomorrow.   For many people who actually attempt to get in the trenches of life working through blood, sweat and tears find it unacceptable when whiners complain about how hard life is even though they never got off their lazy butts.  Their goal is to forever search for an Easy Button hoping some genie will pop out, making everything magically delicious!    

Over hearing a person vent about their life crisis, it prompted me to conger up this passage.  It also forced me analyze myself as an adult, my care free days are now some distant world only found in my mind, the teenage years of no fear have been replaced with doubt and worry and life is not a cake walk by no stretch of the imagination. These minute memories are like grains of sand slowly dropping through the hour glass, which finally awakens me from my zombie state realizing wow, at one point in life I was lethargic and desired the easy button too. 

The apostle Paul wrote in Corinthians, stay focused, win the prize and be prepared because the young believers of that time were led off track because they enjoyed the posh life, easy come easy go. Despite the carefree lifestyle, Paul continued to encourage the people to strive for a crown or prize by comparing life’s prize to a race in which all run but only one receives the trophy, run in such a way that you may obtain it Cor. 9:24-27.  

This race Paul speaks of is life, the one each of us run daily, the prize is life everlasting. No matter where you are right now in life there will be pitfalls, temptations, moments we want to give up and throw in the towel nevertheless we have to condition our minds, bodies, and spirits to endure this race until the end.  Like an athlete, we need to train ourselves for this marathon by reading, studying, learning as much as our mind body and soul can withstand.  This is a race for the kingdom of heaven as well as the race to accomplish God’s dreams, visions, and purpose He has bestowed each of us with.  

So what is the end result?  God gives us the victory through Jesus Christ learn to discipline yourself, pray with the spirit, pray for understanding and remember you really do have an easy button, just click it, Jesus is on the main line waiting for you to call! It’s just that easy. 

Cathy Gillfords, Her Life is a Miracle

Image by: Associated Press

For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. John 5:20

Last night, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords slowly entered the chambers under her own power to claim her seat one final time in the House of Representatives.  Just over a year ago, January 8, 2011, this same woman was facing death straight in the face after a gunman open fire on a crowd, which snuffed out five lives: one federal judge, a nine year old girl and that bullet which struck Gabby in the head at close range. Ms. Giffords also announced she was relinquishing her Arizona seat to dedicate full time toward rehabilitation and therapy. Gabby has beat the odds, all while baffling doctors and other specialist as to how someone can recover so well after suffering brain injury and in all practical purposes picked up life where she left off. 

I don’t know if Giffords is a believer in the faith or Jesus Christ, nevertheless I do sense people worldwide prayed for her recovery which ushered the Spirit of God to begin the healing process. This brave heart of a woman and her phenomenal recovery, once again, made me raise the question “is such phenomena’s like this luck or divine intervention?” Is it a coincidence, that Gabrielle survived or was it something short of a miracle? Does society chalk this up as another spectacular incident which is unexplainable by the laws of nature; question whether this act was of God or another fluke?   I am a firm believer there is power in prayer and Gabrielle Giffords is a living witness anything is possible with God.  This modern day example of a Miracle in Arizona should stand as proof that God provides observable wonders for all to see no different from the parting of the Red Sea.

Ms. Gillfords has demonstrated tenacity, a willingness to fight through grueling and painful therapy all with a smile on her face.  Her recovery has not been easy just as our faith journey with Christ is no leisurely walk in the park.  There will be trials, tribulations, and mountains to climb, events which seem endless and painful. Yet, in the darkest hour of one’s struggle is usually the day joy will come. Recall Christ’s words, faith with out works is dead so, the next time you feel that your burdens are too heavy and you want to give up, remember Gabrielle Giffords, despite all the odds for some reason this lady persevered, never gave up exemplifying the true essence of faith. Because of her confidence, will and determination she has received the greatest gift of all the miracle of life.   

Tigner J.

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Children, Their Lost Souls Under Siege

Image by: Tigner J.

Start children off on the way they should go and even when they are old they will not turn from it.  Proverbs 22:6

Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid. Proverbs 12:1

Two principles have disappeared from society’s code of morals; children honoring, respecting, listening, obeying parents and parent’s fear/belief of sparing a child.  Because of this disconnect, a seismic shift in values has occurred in our communities. More so than anytime during the existence of man, humanity has deemed morals to be devalued, or futile. In short, this new ideology has replaced morality with vanity and egotism which has ruptured God’s foundation of basic living.  This immoral devastation can be debated from various perspectives, however my heartache is caused by lost souls of our children who have failed due to lack of knowledge; Honor your father and mother for your days will be longer on this earth Exodus 20:12 . My eyes also stink from tears because youth walk in the way of their heart and not in the sight of their eyes by not realizing God will bring them unto judgment based on their ways. Yet, for some strange reason adults, teachers, and parents who know these words are often afraid to practice what was preached to them years ago because of public backlash for such “idiotic” beliefs.

A great deal of troubles which plaque our nation come from not following God’s word or what people consider as correct.  For example, parents have reversed roles; allowing children to dictate what they want or Department of Human Services mandating it unlawful to discipline your child.  So, is it illicit for me to spank my child if they are cursing, stealing, or being defiant? By not enforcing some form of order children are surely heading down a path of no return; death, prison or without a doubt self destruction! Based on these findings one has to assume government would rather a child be killed or imprisoned opposed to praying, teaching, Gods, word along with a little whipping and a wailing.

The point I’m trying to make, all blame cannot be placed on the shoulders of our adolescence, for they know not what they do, however this burden should rest squarely on parents and adults who in many cases have failed to educate or practice many of God’s ‘Golden Rules’ such as spare the rod and spoil the child; for whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them. Prov. 13:24. Go back to what you know worked from your mother, father, Big Mama, auntie, or Ms. Mary down the street though you did not like the lectures, whippings, or long days in church yet through it all you turned out fairly well!

Parents, raising children is harder today than ever before yet sitting on most bookshelves or coffee tables is the best parenting Manuel of all times The Holy Bible, pick it up teach your children about God and his Majestic word before the difficult days come.   For childhood and youth are a time of vanity all else will fall short of joy and beauty until you [they] seek and know God!

Tigner J.

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God’s Mercy, Turning Sorrow into Sapphires

Image by: VOICE Today

It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. Luke 17:2 

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4 

Betrayal of a child

One in four girls and one in six boys are sexually abused by their 18^th birthdays. These startling statistics are numbing reminders that the innocence of children are stolen every day; voices are silenced, their cries denied and because of this betrayal, children learn to suppress grief and after years of rejection they grow into teenagers, tagged with anger issues, depression, and drug abuse. The vicious cycle continues; with a voice unheard, children hurt, hearts filled with sorrow and another life lost. 

Angela Williams: VOICE Today, CEO

This  past weekend, I attended the East Metro Atlanta Christian Writers meeting where I met a dynamic woman, Angela Williams, author, international speaker as well as founder of VOICE Today.    Through our conversation, I witnessed a person, overflowing with passion, joy and always wearing a smile.  No one could have made me believe this vibrant and energetic woman was a survivor of incest and had lived a childhood filled with sorrow.  Yet, after suffering “14 years at the brutal hands of her stepfather”, Angela finally found peace and direction through God and was able to go from Sorrow to Sapphires  , the title of her book which illustrates how suffering became a pathway of healing for many people.  From her pain Christ gave her a testimony which led to purpose and from purpose to Angela’s passion which birthed a crusade to break the silence and cycle of child sexual abuse through her grassroots non-profit organization, VOICE Today www.voicetoday.org . 

In life,  people find themselves suspended over perplexed situations, abusive relationships, or depression, all can cause frustration and disappointment.  In the midst of these storms they are prompted to cry out to God even question where is He during their hurt.  Doubt penetrates the spirit sucking what microcosm of confidence inside.  The enemy adds insult to pain by pressing down until it feels as though you are dead and leaving your heart in despair.  (Psalms143:4) You are under attack.  Jesus Christ told His followers to take His yoke for His burden is easy.  During your darkest hour when it appears there is no hope, allow Christ to take all your burdens He knows what to do with them regain your self-assurance and believe again!  Sure it is easy for me to tell you how to get rid of your problems, but  just as Angela’s story and with all storms God is always there He knows your pain!  Through prayer, supplication, seeking help from churches and professionals, all things are possible through God!

While praying find the true connection with God, increase knowledge, relationship, trust, and faith in Christ anticipate God’s answers and choose not to hang on to the memories instead let go.  I’m here to remind you though the pain hurts deep, it will not last forever. Christ’s Grace is sufficient for you; for His strength is made perfect in weakness.  Angela Williams found a way to turn her pain into passion, start believing in YOU again because God is not through with you yet.

Sexual child abuse is a sick and sadistic crime if you or someone you know is suffering from any type of abuse get professional help. If the memories want go away contact VOICE Today  

Tigner J.

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You are a Hoarder Time to take an inventory of your life

DeKalb County
Seminole Land field
Image by: Tigner J.

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.  Matthew 6:19

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

We all have seen or heard about the A&E network series Hoarders which allow viewers to see how people live who have a difficult time parting with their belongings or pets.  In some cases, individuals have carried so much junk from their past life they are on the verge of loosing home, family, friends, and mental stability. We cringe through episodes, converse amongst ourselves as well as cast some form of judgment as to how could a person get to this point, or I would never allow myself to keep stuff like these people and not to leave out these are some real crazy folk.   I hate to be a bearer of bad news; you are a hoarder and to blind to see it!

A&E states, some 3 million people suffer from some form of hoarding or holding onto objects.  This secret disorder can reach catastrophic levels which opens the door to evictions, demolition notices, and costly citations. Parallel to physical hoarding a myriad of Christians and non-Christians alike have a fixation of mentally storing all types of pain, suffering, lost dreams, hopes, loves and desires.  These setbacks or so called failures have inflected hardship on a person’s daily life. Longsuffering then breeds a spirit of withdrawal, depression causing an exclusion of God from problems. Often times these disappointments, self blame, or blame shifting to God have consumed a person’s strength and wellbeing which keep many from obtaining their destiny.

 Albert Einstein so eloquently stated “insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results.” The most excellent way to end mental hoarding is to get in line with God let pass adversities stay behind. Yes, you have fallen short of God’s Glory caused by problems that seem insurmountable but God’s desire for you is healing and restoration.  Whatever your mind is hoarding there is a cure-all which corrects past encounters, wrongdoings, and mistakes when you dump these burdens on God.   His word clearly states that for as high as the heavens are above the earth, as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us Psalms 103:12. Simply put, once God heals He forgives us and forget our past. Hallelujah! Now, if the creator of all living things can be so gracious to forgive why you can’t find it in your heart to forgive the past as well as your self? 

Through praying and seeking forgiveness this can remove barriers which appear to be immovable or impeded us from moving forward in life. So stop hoarding, rekindle your relationship with Christ He is always waiting on His children to return, seek, praise, honor and adore Him! When you stop and absorb these words one has to realize your past is truly your past!

Let us not fail to recognize hoarding is a 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 forms) please seek professional help.

Tigner James

HOLD ON CHANGE IS COMING

Here is a post  by a another great blogger, Enyonam Gbekle, that i feel someone need to hear/read today... My God Bless and keep you! #comment-form


EZEKIEL 12:28

Therefore say to them, 'Thus says the Lord GOD, "None of My words will be delayed any longer. Whatever word I speak will be performed,"'" declares the Lord GOD.

I was really blessed by this scripture last night in our intercessory prayer session in Church and I couldn't help it but to share it with you my beloved sisters and brothers in Christ. I don't know what word the Lord has spoken concerning your family, marriage, career, work children, business, ministry or relationship. However whatever it is, I came to encourage and to remind us that the Lord says; no longer will His words delay any longer. Whatever word He has spoken He will perform without delay and speedily declares the Lord Almighty. So wipe your tears and don't give up not just yet because change is coming - Restoration without limts, Amen!

However, whilst we are waiting in expectancy lets continue to exercise our faith by feeding our spirit the Word as we remain attentive and sensitive to His instructions for the delivery of our long awaited package to the glory of His Name. Wow, what a Mighty God we serve, how merciful and gracious He is in all His ways! Rejoice my sisters and brothers, rejoice for affliction shall not rise up the second time.......!

VERSE FOR MEDITATION:

You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, who has dealt wondrously with you. And my people shall never again be put to shame.-- Joel 2:26


2011 by Enyonam Gbekle. All rights reserved.



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