Is The Mirror A True Reflection of You?

Man in the mirror

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13


IT FEELS GOOD TO LOOK IN THE MIRROR AND KNOW I AM WORTHY OF EVERYTHING AND ANYTHING I DESIRE.” – Unknown


When looking in the mirror do you like what you see? Does the looking-glass reflect a person full of joy, a strong self-assured individual capable of conquering all or perhaps you see so called flaws and blemishes? Do you get mad and search the abyss in your mind for change or simply sulk and do nothing? What ever seen I do believe God and the man in the mirror hold the key to change.

At one point in life we have all stared at our reflected images trying to find answers of questions; how this happened, why certain decisions where made and the infamous what’s in the future? We also turn our heads pretending, like Alice in Wonderland, that fantasy is reality. I recall as a child how I would peer into double reflections of mirrors in dressing rooms trying to see beyond the double exposed likeness of me. The illusion of an infinite image was fascinating. It was endless seeming to be everlasting!

The mirror can tell a lot about yourself; it displays character, emotions, feelings and it forces you to examine self. Mirrors allow you to converse with self while brushing your teeth or just being plain silly; make funny faces or cry to release pain. Mirrors are silent partners that permit us to self-diagnose the gray hair, weight, why teeth are crooked, where did those pimples come from, should you pop or attempt to cover them up? Whatever your personal perception; be it negative, positive, vain, superficial, vibrant or withdrawn you where created in the likeness of God which means you are ruler of all creatures and further more a conqueror who can do all things through Christ which strengthens you. However, to achieve and receive one has to first believe. To begin this new dawning it starts with the Man in the Mirror by making up one’s mind to do so.

Mirror, mirror on the wall reveals that you are the best! This animate object can provide truthful answers provided you step back and take a look at yourself in a full length mirror. When dressing in your Sunday’s Best, examine self from head to toe and realize that “When one door of happiness closes, another opens”. [Helen Keller]. In life, we have looked so long in cracked mirrors and at closed doors, that we do not see the obvious clear image. With an understanding that you will look long and hard one can see and feel like a million bucks. The spirit of God is in you providing strength to do all things. It all starts with the man in the mirror so make that change.

Tigner J.

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Angry and stirring up dissension

Whoso is slow to anger [is] of great understanding, And whoso is short in temper is exalting folly Proverbs 14:29


Anger is the most misunderstood human emotion. Anger can cause people to block their feelings or lash out with aggression. I’m not a psychiatric consultant but it appears many suffer from anger based on circumstances, self-pity, being mistreated, or just mad at the world. I have to also believe another contributing factor is people placing trust in material things, intangible desires and jobs. When life runs amuck, people look for someone to blame and release their rage.

The mindset of countless Americans is complacency in life, be it good or bad. Opposed to stepping out in faith and taking God’s word to heart, they rely on others, government or jobs as their lifeline and when corporations shut down, or lay-off employees, anger positions itself in those who feel let down. In such situations, betrayed individuals become enraged thus triggering their bundled emotions to fester into increased Alcohol and drug usage as well as other forms of aggression which can lead to slaying employers, co-workers, snuffing family members out as well as taking their own life all in the name of anger.

Through out the Old Testament God had plenty to be boiling with rage, yet he always found a way to be compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding with love and faithfulness. Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires James 1:19-20. In total contrast of what God spoke and Jesus preached, society has relied upon their own knowledge for so long many have turned their back on God. They have become complacent with life/jobs until havoc knocks them down and anger creeps into the spirit. What is really needed is an orchestrated effort of doubters to visit with the one doctor who can cure all infirmities; Jesus the Christ.

God clearly tells us not to lean up on our own understandings or depend on others but place our trust in the Trinity: God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. When we deviate from this source there is destined to be chaos. Disgruntled souls filled with hopelessness seek all forms of anger relievers, everything accept the main source Jesus Christ. I venture to say if people would take time to crack open God’s medical book call the bible, meditate upon on his word a lot of wrath can be eradicated. Stop banking on your own knowledge, placing faith in man, jobs, and material things but into the one who created all, God!  It’s a daily work in progress to be in God’s will and to overcome anger. Trust in His word, allow God to show you His ways and direct your path based on his truth!

I encourage all to seek God, pray, call upon his name and develop a relationship. Stop letting the days of your life pass you by because of anger, get up get out and do something stop letting the days of your life pass you by!

Tigner J.


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Changing your past can restore your future!

The LORD is merciful and gracious; slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. - Psalm 103:8-12

If there was a device that could transport you back in time where would you go? If you could change the hands of time what would you do or what situations would you change while taking this fantastic voyage? Do over college days, right any wrongs, recant statements of regret, apologize to those you hurt mentally and physically or people/Christians you chose not to help?

Though it has been tried, there are no gadgets, teleports or machines to turn back the hands of time. However, there is a panacea which corrects past encounters, wrongdoings, and mistakes. It is the process of seeking forgiveness for ourselves as well as others through God’s word. From God’s Grace and Mercy, He has allowed us the opportunity to request forgiveness by praying and submitting ourselves to him. Contrary to popular belief, most people omit a crucial part of forgiving which is forgetting. Repeatedly we have heard, “I will forgive but I will not forget!” People apply forgiveness and forgetting like oil and water by separating the two. But according to God’s word the two ingredients are inseparable. The only way to forgive is to forget, you cannot have one without the other. Sure many will argue there is no way I will never forget, we read it on bumper stickers in regards to 9/11, women often chant this as their mantra against men who have ‘scorned’ them and the list goes on and on. When it’s all said and done before you can move into a more blessed filled life-style free from burdens and old battle wounds you have to forgive & forget!

Let us take this time to thank God for second chances. His word clearly states that He will not harbor anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities (unlike many of us who have to ‘get even’ or not forget). 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 forgives us he forgets our past. Hallelujah!  Now, if the creator of heaven earth and all living things can be so gracious to forgive us why can’t we find it in our heart to forgive one another?

Forgiveness can remove barriers which appear to be immovable or impeded us from moving forward in life. Take advantage of God’s time machine; prayer & supplication and stand on his promises. Learn to erase the memory banks of your mind of the wrongs that my have occurred. Find a place in your heart to forgive like Christ and allow God to move and make mighty wonders happen in your life!

Tigner J.

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Celebrate living no matter what!

Celebrate life

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. – John 10:10


May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. – Romans 15:13

No day is promised not a minute or an hour. Each interval of time is a blessing granted to us by God. To have the ability to wake up and see a new day is a celebration. We often take the act of waking as a guaranteed daily encounter opposed to another gift from God. There are times we arouse tired, and groggy only wishing for a valid reason to stay home, while every blue moon, there are days we great the morning with zest and feeling on top of the world! Now, would it be wrong for me to say you should awake each morning full of joy, happy and singing? Nonetheless, I will tell you it’s not too far fetch to strive in making that happen in spite of how you feel mentally, physically or spiritually.

Recently, I stumbled across an old secular classic, I Just Want to Celebrate, by Rare Earth, which depicts the very essence of what I’m trying to say: “I just want to celebrate another day of living', I just want to celebrate another day of life.” As simplistic as these lyrics are, one has to continue to believe that in each day there is hope and opportunity despite the forecast which predicts another gloomy day of facing hard times, uncertainness of jobs, health issues, or even relationships. When it is all said and done, we have to learn to encourage one another don’t be afraid to confide in each other and celebrate living.

Our existence is not a given yet God asked his children to trust and confide in Him. He also finds it pleasing when we praise, pray, worship and discover the true meaning of peace through in storms. Yes your body, mind and spirit is in pain, your pockets are bare, the gas tank is empty along with the bank account too. However, the word of the day is celebrate! Celebrate! Learn to celebrate each day of living! “The devil will spit in your face and will not give you a napkin to wipe it off” because he finds joy seeing you sad, mad and dejected. Lean upon God’s unchanging word and celebrate!

By standing on God’s promises, “move away from self-centered prayers and began to intercede (stand in the GAP) for others. If God is present in the atmosphere then he is fully aware of your needs, wants and desires.” (Thank you good Brother Rev. Carl Hunter), continue to lean upon fellow Christians to praise God’s name. When two are more gather in Jesus name, he is with you! Seek enjoy, A.S.K., and God will give you another day of celebrated life!

Tigner J.  



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The unfamiliar voice of the Shepherd

The Shepard and his Sheep

Read: John 10:1-18

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. - John 10:27

The sheep know their voice

Two shepherds lead their flock to graze; one heading north the other south. As the men greeted each other so do their sheep, hundreds commingling into a sea of unrecognizable wool. 

There are no brands, or unique markings just sheep. So how do these shepherds separate their flock? Each man shouts a cadence or whistle, systematically parting the sheep like the Red Sea, triggering the flock to fall in line with their rightful master. What appeared to be disorder was resolved with a voice that only their sheep recognized.

God's sheep

Over 200 times sheep is mentioned in the Bible. Sheep where important to the people of that time as well as they are symbolically referred to as God’s people. David, a shepherd himself, wrote the 23rd Psalm which illustrates what a “personal” relationship with God should be like.  The Lord is my Sheppard and I shall not want. 

We like sheep often go astray, turning to our own ways Isaiah 53:6.  We pay attention to unfamiliar voices while seeking greener pastures of living. In the prime of life, we find ourselves following the voice of leaders, government, and even strangers forgetting that God guides us! All too often, in the mist of personal crusades, people find themselves lost confused and sometimes trapped. Their cries for help reach the ears of many, yet individuals who don’t have a relationship with Jesus, mistaken the Master’s voice with thieves, who want to physically and spiritually steal kill and/or destroy.

Hearing God's voice

Understand God's voice is not always audible it is unlike that of Cecil B. Demille’s version in the movies - a talking bush. Through and bible study, learn God’s voice.  Become acquainted with God’s communication by Practicing, resting, and abiding in God for spiritual comfort. There will be frustration during your process of tuning into Christ and keep in mind the green pastures, shadows of the valley, and flowing waters are temporary yet the message is to follow the shepherd and develop a relationship; these things will never fade.

The Good shepherd

A good shepard know their sheep

Jesus told his followers that he is the good shepherd his sheep know his voice and he calls them by name. To be one of the chosen, humble yourself and desire the need to commune with Christ. Shake off the negative characteristics of sheep: demanding, stubborn, straying, easily influenced, fearful, as well as restlessness. Make way for a better relationship by becoming totally dependent of the shepherd for every need. We all have fallen into ruts and are easily thrust aside in life, but thanks be to God, for Grace and Mercy which will allow us to live in His goodness and loving kindness all the days of our life

Tigner


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G.A.P.S. - God Answers Prayers Still

Bridging the G.A.P.

When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures James 4:3




A large number of Christians are members of the D.U.A.P. club; ‘Doubter of Unanswered Prayers'. These individuals argue God does not respond to prayers. Desires were not met when wanted. 

There is a misconception that prayers are instantly answered. Let me remind you God hears all prayers however it’s only in due season he responds. Jesus stated whatever you ask in my name I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son John 14:12. What’s most often omitted from this verse by believers is they are not asking in Jesus name for the desires. Furthermore, prayers are typically for your own satisfaction opposed to the Father being glorified in the Son. John also elaborates, prayers are answered because we keep God’s commandment of believing in the name of Jesus Christ and loving one another 1 John 3:22-23.

God Answers Prayers Still

Praying can close G.A.P.S., (which stands for God Answers Prayers Still) 
Prayer is empowered by reading, meditating, and studying God’s word daily. I ran across an acronym, T. R.I. P., which teaches how to pray using scriptures. 

THANKS: What in this verse makes me thankful?

REGRET: What in this verse causes me regret?

INTERCESSION (prayer): What does this text lead me to pray for?

PURPOSE: What action does this text encourage me to take today?

prayer changes things

During your supplication, incorporate T.R.I.P. to develop your relationship and grow in faith. Don't fall back into bad habits of quarreling in your mind  and asking God with some doubt. He who has doubt is like waves of the sea James 1:5-8. Such a mind set will keep Christians confused, bitter, and angry with God. 

Transform the mind

Transformation of the mind and spirit begins when you show humility and start applying the A.S.K. principle during prayer, as Jesus stated Matt 7:7: ask, and it will be given to you, seek and you will find and it will be opened.

There is blessedness from answered prayers when you lift God’s name in praise, trust in him and ask, with right motives. Though weeping may endure for a season, in return God arms you with strength by turning your mourning into dancing, and depression into gladness. Never be silent, sing praise and give thanks to God so that your prayers will not fall in the GAPS again.

Tigner J. Rand



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Run and not Grow Weary




Ms. Simons - 94 year old - May God continue to
add joy in your life!

Let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth Ecclesiastes 11:9




As a child, there are dozens of things to do: swimming, riding bikes, or climbing trees. Time seemed to last forever along with a body with an endless supply of energy. We put away childish things as the sands of time transformed playing into the responsibility of adulthood, the dog eat dog world of work, work and more work. Somewhere along the way we forgot to bring from obscurity into view that joyful heart of our youthful days. In its place is a heart filled with fear, doubt, and exhaustion from the race called life.

God places people in our lives as examples as to how we should live. Take for example Ms. Simon, a 94 year old vibrant energetic lady who is always cheerful. Each Sunday she enters the church gracefully wearing an enormous smile. This particular morning, as Ms. Simon made her way to her predetermined seat (three rows from the front), I over heard someone ask how she is doing, her reply, “I’m running a race”. Even though her once spry stride, of years gone by is now calculated unhurried steps which require the aided of a walker  I assumed her statement was based on her relatively great distance she has traveled over the years.

Though out service, my mental note of running was forever in the forefront of my mind. Wondering what her response would be and how will she perceive my curiosity. As church adjourned I made my way through the crowd to enquire about her statement. With a gleaming smile and in such a childlike way she replied; “can’t you tell by how young and active I am.” One could not help but to return a look of favor and agreement along with a response of Yes I can. In continuous response, “It’s a race of life that I am running; I feel good and thank God.” I have to believe that Ms. Simon is a living example of Isaiah’s words;” those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Despite the trials and tribulations of life I took one lesson from this brief encounter. The race of life is not for the swift. Though it is commanded there is nothing better under the sun than to eat drink and be merry Ecc. 8:15 I must also renew my strength and hope with the Lord by letting the stresses of the day go! Learn to enjoy life, let your hearts give you joy as in the days of your youth. Take time in life to enjoy family, friends, children or grandchildren.

In parting, I thanked Ms. Simon for her time, thanked God for her presences and continuous happiness. In a soft spoken voice she smiled and thanked me right after snapping this photo. I pray that God will bless me to have such longevity of life and look this good at 94!

Tigner J. Rand


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Whatever you do Whistle for Jesus

And whatever you do in word or deed [work] do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Col. 3:17

Whistle while you work

Let’s face it most people don’t like their jobs: long hours, uncaring managers, vindictive co-workers, as well as spiteful individuals instigating chaos in the workplace. 

Employees feel unappreciated, unchallenged; they desire promotions and pay increases yet all to no avail. If that’s not enough, current economic turmoil and expert forecast paint a picture of doom and gloom: fewer jobs, lay-off, and pay cuts almost guaranteed with no change in site. Based on these facts, it’s apparent you are stuck in this storm [job] for a dreadfully lengthy time. This is the point where uncertainty brews in one’s mind; questioning life’s journey, God and any  person whom you feel attributed to your pain. There’s also the option of drowning in self pity which will ultimately disconnect you from friends, family, God as well as yourself.

The Seven Dwarfs

Most of you recall the fairy tale, Snow White and her Seven Dwarfs: Sleepy, Doc, Bashful, Sneezy Dopey, Grumpy, and Happy. Each Dwarf had a complaint or was oblivious to what was going on. In regards to work, our situation mirrors apiece of every emotion found in the Dwarfs. 

• There are days when individuals are sleepy or bored during 
• An impatient “no it all” who can be over bearing like Doc  
• Bashful and soft spoken - always pushed around making a day dreadful
• Sneezy is the sweet solution for early dismissal 
• Grumpy, Dopey and Happy: emotions bundled up inside each of us

 Any one of the aforementioned emotions can pop up a split second at work home or at the break of some daunting task.

I don’t profess to have the cure for any of these characteristics nevertheless I do believe by establishing a stronger relationship with Christ can ease the doldrums of monotonous situations. Scripture is very clear, “whatever you do, do it enthusiastically Col 3:23.” What does that mean? Despite how bad your job or life may appear, do everything with good cheer, whistle a joyful noise unto the Lord.. God’s word also elaborates that we should continue earnestly in prayer being vigilant in thanksgiving. Col 4:2.

It is clear that some Dwarfs had great excuses for not wanting to work while others found it a pleasure. When it was all said and done, no matter how each Dwarf felt they whistled while they worked. Likewise, during moments of despair find the inner strength to praise God through song, prayer and even whistling because a merry heart is like medicine but a broken spirit dries the bones. 

My beloved brothers and sisters be steadfast, immovable don’t let the madness of a day shake you from your belief in Christ. Though the labor is hard, it is not in vain and remember, no matter how bad your situation just whistle and always anticipate a miracle!



Tigner J. Rand




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I Will Hear in Heaven

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13





A portrait by Joseph Karl Stieler, 1820


Ludwig van Beethoven is regarded as one of the greatest composers of all times. His nine masterpiece Symphonies has transcended time and is played by countless composers to date. Many may not know that this renowned artiste became deaf, at the apex of his career. “Beethoven's hearing loss did not prevent his composing music, but it made playing at concerts increasingly difficult”. He did not allow physical setbacks to hinder his talent. Oppose to giving up or contemplating suicide Ludwig’s resolution was to continue living for and through his art. Ludwig was also known for stating great quotes. One which caught my attention was sited on his death bed: “I will hear in heaven”.


Reading this quote made me think of many of us who have all our faculties yet we choose to put stumbling blocks in our path telling ourselves what we cannot do. We give up blame others for our short comings or we strive for the lesser oppose to choosing high aspirations.


God has bestowed us with great talents, abilities and skills which are not for our own ego driven desires but to pay homage and praise to God. Ludwig acknowledged his talents to God by stating: “Beethoven can write music, thank God, but he can do nothing else on earth." Stop and think of yourself. What has you metaphorically deaf, keeping you from moving forward: friends, family, job complacency, fear or self? One perspective that is clear by seeking the will of God, His spirit can remove what ever is holding you back.


Take an inward look at yourself find the problems which has seized you. If Ludwig van Beethoven can write great musical scores without hearing what can you do? Look beyond the horizon and find strength which comes from God by way of faith. Become the magnum opus God intended for you to be!


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Life’s New Chapter: repeat bad habits or get better!

Photo: Tigner J.

In life, every four to five years a chapter comes to an end as blank pages are set before us to scribe new adventures. We attempt to outline our lives, by striving to reach high marks, while each period is transformed for the better or it progressively gets worse.


I am grateful God gave me custodianship of two great children. I have committed to memory their birth; my daughter a Thursday and my son a Sunday as well as memorized fond moments of their adolescent years; walking, talking, and first day of school. This past weekend, respectably, both have reached the four & five year pinnacle in life. Both are crossing over into uncharted territories; a new chapter. My daughter graduated High School. Her forethought is to set out on her own by going away to college. A testing ground to apply all learned life and academic skills without aide from parents. My son graduated fifth grade and matriculates to the sixth grade. He has reached the most impressionable years for youth; middle school. Will my children’s commencing be easy? No! However, with God as their Sheppard and God giving them the power I believe He will continue to lead, guide and direct their path so they will not stray.

We all have an opportunity for new beginnings in life. Reflect over the past four years and see from whence you came; where you stagnant, standing still, continually looked in the past destroying all possibility of making a change for the better? Or, did you see growth and development, a new creature in Christ, aligned in God’s will?

With all changes in life, we have to remember to stay the course and not give up and put your trust in God. Take the desired steps to begin a new positive chapter in life, also activate a positive attitude, open mind, faith in heart as well as a strong will. Make your next four years the best of your life!

Tigner



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