Pain and Faith one in the same

Read  Hebrews 11: 3-14

For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. Romans 10:10

Pain and faith

In all intents and purposes, we believe in doctors. We trust in their diagnosis despite the fact they cannot feel, see, touch, or taste our pains.  The same is true with faith – it cannot be felt, tasted, touched, or seen yet we believe.  Faith begins where reasoning ends. 

How deep is your faith?

In the bible faith is described as active trust in God and his word.  To a true believer there is no such thing as “blind faith.” Faith is always tied to God’s word.  It is not some random thought or “Jedi” mind trick of persuasion. Faith is God’s gift to his believers Ephesians 2:8. Faith comes by hearing the message, and the message heard through the word of Christ Romans 10:17. Have you not heard? Then how deep is your faith?

When obscure pain impedes the body people probe their minds searching for answers. Stump your toe on a rock it’s obvious. Dealing with an agonizing chest pain, or severe headaches we reach out for help.  Though the doctor is not experiencing the same pains we trust they will find the primary cause. 

No logic in religion

We tend to place logic in religion.  Too bad people don’t take their walk with faith the same way as pain.  As long as we can see a thing, touch a thing, feel a thing, taste a thing, we are comfortable but when logic evades us fear, doubt, and frustration sets in.  How deep is your faith?  Pain and faith – one in the same – neither can be seen, touched, tasted, or felt yet we believe.

What is faith?

Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. So as it is with a non believer who questions the walks of faith, remember both pain and faith are one in the same.  Until you experience it for yourself it will only seem foolish. 

Living Above the Chaos

the greatest hour for the church to shine

“Remember this! In the last days there will be many troubles, because people will love themselves, love money, brag, and be proud. They will say evil things against others and will not obey their parents or be thankful or be the kind of people God wants. They will not love others, will refuse to forgive, will gossip, and will not control themselves. They will be cruel, will hate what is good, will turn against their friends, and will do foolish things without thinking. They will be conceited, will love pleasure instead of God, and will act as if they serve God but will not have his power.”  II Timothy 3:1-5 New Century Version

We as a nation of people are facing some perilous and terrifying times. Yet, in spite of the hour in which we live, for the people of God it is a time of great opportunities and advancements. It is in times like these that our faith as a people must be stronger than ever before.  Although we are not exempt from the elements of life, the changing of the seasons and times, there is a difference between us surviving the crisis or succumbing to the pressure.

This is the greatest hour for the church to shine, rise and be heard. When the world is regressing and going under, God will move His people forward, causing His people to progress and flourish.

“Now a new king arose over Egypt who did not know Joseph. He said to his people, Behold, the Israelites are too many and too mighty for us and they outnumber us both in people and in strength. Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, lest they multiply more and, should war befall us, they join our enemies, fight against us, and escape out of the land. So they set over [the Israelites] taskmasters to afflict and oppress them with [increased] burdens. And [the Israelites] built Pithom and Rameses as store cities for Pharaoh. But the more [the Egyptians] oppressed them, the more they multiplied and expanded, so that [the Egyptians] were vexed and alarmed because of the Israelites.” Exodus 1:8-12 Amplified

During these rough economic times, it is God who will stabilize us and cause us to increase, prosper and propel in the worst conditions. The world is in a major crisis, and the pressure is even on us to compromise our faith, but we must remember as the children of Israel grew under pressure, hardship and oppression, we to will grow, multiply and increase as long as we believe by faith that God will see us through.

Our faith in Christ will triumph over all. For whatever is born of God is victorious over the world; and this is the victory that conquers the world, even our faith I John 5:4. Amplified

By faith you can conquer every mountain, face every problem, and overcome every adversity. By faith you can bounce back when people counted you out; by faith God can restore your health, family, bad credit, erase debt, reverse foreclosure, remove cancer, diabetes, liver disorder, put love back in a marriage, drive out rebellion and put your house in order.

By faith you can ride through the rages of life, walk through turbulence, test, and dangerous situations without any evidence of being scared. By faith you can defeat worry, doubt and fear. There is absolutely nothing faith cannot do!

Submitted by: Pastor Paulette Harper Johnson

http://pauletteharper.com

Paulette Harper Johnson, an award winning author, writing coach, and speaker, seeks to inspire women from all walks of life.  Paulette is a wife, mother, grandmother, Bible teacher, radio host, writer and the owner of WNL Virtual Book Tours.

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Visit her on www.pauletteharper.com

God loves a good argument

couples fighting 

Read James 4:1-11

Come near to God and he will come near to you.  James 4:8

A good argument

Ever given any thought to what evokes arguments (fights) among family and friends? If surveyed man and women would unleash a plethora of reasons – more fingers pointing and less searching of the man in the mirror.  Understand there may be times a ‘fair argument’ is in order. But for the sake of this argument (pun intended) these frequent spats revels a greater problem which is often over looked. The Bible highlights the root cause for the common disagreement which typically affects many Christians.

Bible view of arguments

James pointed out in Chapter 4:1-11, fights and quarrels stem from inner battles of desires. Because you do not have [your desires], it kills you. So, is James suggesting by not getting desires it ignites frustration and questions God?  According to the bible the succinct answer is yes. So does God answer prayers if our motives are not pure?  The simple answer is no.

Many prayers have elements of personal requests. Based on God, His will, and time, they are answered – in whole or in part.  But people covet their desires of the heart by pimping God through selfish prayer. It is safe to say when EGO driven prayers are ushered heaven bound they Edge God Out.  Parishioners are not focusing on God’s purpose and in return God refuses to hear or answer. 

When prayers/desires go unanswered the stormy cycle continues and anger towards God increase, “where are you God when I need you.” Frustration follows along with disappointment of self.  The least thing triggers a full blown argument which is typically much to do about nothing.  The attempt to do it your way and not God’s way opens a person’s spirit to dangerous warfare.

Are you praying with wrong motives? Reevaluate your prayers.  Are your prayers seeking the pleasures of life or do you seek God first?  Jesus told us to A.S.K. – Ask and you shall receive seek and you will find knock and the doors will be opened Matthew 7:7-8.  Jesus’ promise was when we ask the Spirit will work in us.  He was not promising that we will receive whatever we think we wanted but that the Holy Spirit may direct our hearts so that we will desire the things that God desires and in exchange he will pour out his blessing pressed down and running over. 

Change the desires. Stop the arguments, pray for God’s desire and watch your life manifest in to the true desires of God. In the end you will still win!  

What’s in a name?

Your destiny is in your name

Read – Luke 1:57-66

 Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.  Psalm 25:5

Names are our identity

There was a time a person’s name meant something. Children were named after parents, aunts, uncles, or from the Bible. It connected them to history. For today’s generation there is no rhyme or reason in a child’s appellation.  Honoring generations passed, upholding family names, or having biblical reference is now passé. 

The importance of names

The bible illustrates the importance of titles. God changed names in an effort to establish new identity; Abram to Abraham – “father of a multitude” also with his wife Sari “my princess” to Sarah “mother of nations” Genesis 17:5-15.  God changed Jacob and Simon’s names too.  God also directed parents to name their children – Abraham to name his son Isaac, Zacharias was ordered by God’s angel to name his son John but the most important was directing Joseph in naming our Savior Jesus. Even today, God is still in the naming business, he was instrumental in naming my son.

Because God told me

  It was understood that the legacy of my name – ‘Tigner’ – would end with me and my son would have my middle name ‘James’.  God had a different agenda.  On a bright sunny Sunday morning, October 17^th, as we jetted down the highway heading to the hospital the Holy Spirit spoke – “his name will be Emmanuel.”  It was beyond doubt I heard from God.

The name change was unexpected. No one knew except for me and God.  When asked “what name is given this child” family was dismayed with my response and asked why?  “Now he cannot carry on the legacy of your name.” I heard all type of complaints.  What was most important to me was naming my son accordingly; Emmanuel which being interpreted is “God with us” Matthew 1:23.  God was with us because my wife’s pregnancy was difficult.  It was only by God’s grace and He being with us that allowed our son to be born – he was a gift from God.  So what is in a name? In this case it had everything to do with God. It had nothing to do with me or what others felt but what the Holy Spirit bestowed upon my heart.  Choose names wisely.

     

The beautiful name of Jesus

Jesus is known by many names, definitions and interpretations. And He answers to them all. People have called Him Prince of Peace, Savior, Bread of life, Counselor, redeemer, comforter, but the most important he is Wonderful. So what is in a name?  When you believe in Jesus name you find Comfort, peace, salvation, joy, and life eternal all for the asking.   When facing troubles, health, jobs, family crisis, at the call of his name Jesus is there.  So what is in a name - Everything that is ever needed can be found in this one name – Jesus.  

The Rugged Cross not the Shiny Gold Cross

The rugged cross not gold cross

Read Galatians 6

Come near to God and He will come near to you.  James 4:8

Sinners on the cross

There was no description of Jesus cross – what it looked like or type of wood. What we do know is the cross was rugged, unfinished, and heavy. Jesus was not a criminal but was accused of blasphemy. Though His death was unjust it atone all sins.

Hanging people on a cross would be considered grisly today. Yet this ancient practice was a common way to degrade and allow lawbreakers to rot in public. It was nothing alluring about the cross or punishment. 

Rugged cross not Gold cross

Over time society glamorized the rugged cross transforming it into gold and silver ornaments worn around necks. Celebrities adorn the crucifix with diamonds and other fancy stones as a sign of status. Others engrave images over human anatomy and T-shirts. It is worn in solidarity of the Christian faith. 

A King on a Cross

Jesus bearing his own cross was horrific torture; there was no beauty in being crucified. It was meant as a form of punishment. The cross was not meant to be a symbol or fashion statement.

•       Pilate took Jesus and scourged him – John 19:1
•         They put a crown of thorns on His head – Matthew 27:29
•         They spat on Him – Matthew 27:30
•         Jesus carried his cross to Golgotha – John 19:17
•         Simon a Cyrenian was compelled to bear Jesus cross  Mark 15:21

Bear and share the burden

Jesus’ death was horrific. Jesus bore our sins on the tree that we might live for righteousness – by his stripes we are healed 1 Peter 2:24. Since that day of crucifixion and resurrection Christians and non-Christians choose to wear crosses to pay homage of that day opposed to bearing crosses as Christ directed.  Paul reminded the Galatians to bear one another’s burdens and fulfill the law of Christ… for each one shall bear his own load Galatians 6:2-5.

Foolish People

Jesus intent was for each of us to bear one another’s burdens – become our brother’s keeper.  But foolish people changed it to wearing a cross around their necks.  Until the crude, rugged cross and Jesus crucifixion is truly understood adorning a cross means nothing.

To die from self and live for him is the true meaning of bearing and wearing a cross. It is the rugged cross and not the shiny gold cross that God want us to emulate.

Father God,

Help us to remember the reason for the cross – the crucifixion. Help us to bear one another’s burdens not just wear a cross.  As servants learn to glorify you in everything we do.  In Jesus name Amen.

Caught in the Act: God sees all

Who Love Birthday cake?

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and lay bare before the eyes of Him who we must give account.  Hebrews 4:13

God sees all

There is no hiding from God. Everything is in plain sight. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord know it completely Psalm 139:4. He knows when we slumber, rise, and sit. God is watching constantly. If man could fathom the thought that God is capable of doing all these things it should keep man from sin and mistake? But for some reason people trick themselves in believing they cannot be caught in the act.

February and birthday cakes

When I was child, February was love supreme. I counted the days leading up to that majestic moment. Not because of Valentine’s Day – it was my birthday month! It was not gifts or parties that brought excitement but moist, tasty, buttery, creamy birthday cake – a decadent display of eatable art. There was no need for party favors, traditional singing or blowing out candles I wanted to cut the cake. 

It's My Party

One year my antsy cake fixation got the best of me. Despite many warnings of “don’t touch the cake” I concocted a plain to steal a taste of “my” birthday cake!  A few quick swipes of icing led to gouging two fingers deep into the vanilla cake. My craving was satisfied. The evidence was covered with more icing. Since mom did not see me everything was all right. But I soon realized mothers – just like God can see all.

No hiding from God

David reminds us there is no place to hide from God.  Where can I go from your Spirit where can I flee from your presence? Psalm 139:7 Yet society justifies their actions in a childlike manner based on the fact they were not caught in the act. Wake up!  Do you not realize God never sleeps – He sees all and knows all?   

Fooling God

God knows everything about us – mind, heart, and soul.  He knows our personalities, concealed fantasies, and hidden motives. As the saying goes – “you can fool some of the people some of the time” but no one can pull the wool over God’s eyes. His word is more than letters on a page; they live. For the unbelievers who doubt they can never get caught, God’s word reminds us that they are alive and active. It is sharper than any double-edged sword; it penetrates even to dividing souls and spirit. It judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart Hebrews 4:12.

Just as I learned there was no great escape from mom’s wrath there is no escaping God. How good and sweet it would be if everyone were free of sin based on the mere fact that every word, action and deed is witnessed by God. Lord help your children to do nothing which would cause them to hide from you.

What’s in your hand? God gave you something

“What if they do not believe me or listen to me. Then the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?” A staff, he replied. Exodus 4:1-2

Questioning God

God has blessed me yet I question my abilities. Words of wisdom flow from my mind to finger tips.  They transmit over the world-wide-web. Wrestling with God – pardon your servant, Lord I am an unlikely messenger. Never been eloquent, to me I am slow and ill-equipped. Satan has mastered to unlock my Pandora’s Box fueling doubt and inadequate abilities.

What has God placed in your hands?

Sunday’s sermon focused on Exodus chapter four and what God had placed in Moses hand – a staff.  Like Moses many of us find ourselves questioning God and not using our gifts. “We sit on our hands and don’t realize what God has placed in them.” Instead of moving as God required Moses pointed out his imperfections – stuttering – and why he was the imperfect messenger. Oppose to trusting and following God’s lead he found reasons to recede.

My gift is writing – thoughts ebb and flow daily. But I see inefficiencies. This self inflected judging turned into a horror movie causing paralyses in the membrane. I find myself stranded on an island of despair wanting to quit. My conscious reinforce my theory - “No one cares about what you write, you are wasting your time stop writing.”

What has God placed in your hand? What stumbling blocks have you set in your way? Transform the mind, stop sitting on your hands and begin to press forward in God’s vision for you.

•  If it is Prophesying – prophesy
• If it is Serving – serve
• If it is Teaching – teach
• If it is Encouraging – encourage
• If it is Giving – give generously

           

God is bigger than your problem

The Preacher’s words prodded me – God is bigger than the quandary so often played in my mind. I realized my quest for perfection is not needed. God has provided everything – the visions, people, as well as supplies to complete all assignments. There should be no worries.

Regardless of weakness and disabilities there is nothing impossible for God. Moses was reminded “Who gave human beings their mouth who gives them sight” Exodus 4:11-12.  As for me – the imperfect servant – Sunday’s sermon reassured God is with me, He will guide me. I am fully equipped. I just need to believe!

From a boy to a man... If only

Father and son bond

If only…

As a boy there were times to express deep thoughts –

that linger in one’s mind.

Or deliberate the contemplations of a man.



If only…

As a boy reminiscing of long walks

that first bike ride without training wheels and

laying catch in the park

or staying up late listening to man talk.



If only…

As a boy there were adults who understood –

brewing emotions of the mind

Is it not okay for a man to show emotion of any kind?



Your succinct roar

Where often words of encouragement –

I now realize.

not to bring me down

But to make one soar



Spring turned to winter

Hopping right over summer

Now all is left are memories

And plenty of what if’s to wonder



If only…

I knew – your last words of wisdom bestowed

would be the end



I remember your teachings –

Keeping them close to heart

love and faithfulness never leave me;

each morning I recite from the very start









If only…

Every man would learn –

To express their deepest thoughts

It is okay to say I love you

and not withhold good to whom it was due



If only…

every man stop making promises

Especially those they know they can’t keep

But start removing EGO and pride

Then the true bond of fatherhood would finally be found

Sunday paper headlines: doing good deeds and keeping the change

Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds and to be generous and willing to share. 1 Timothy 6:18

The Sunday Paper

The Atlanta Journal-Constitiution
 on the corner

On any given Sunday in metro-Atlanta paper-men and women combat Mother Nature – rain, heat or snow – hustling the paper.  For a couple of years Atlanta’s newspaper - The Atlanta Journal-Constitution have peddled their weekend edition on street corners. As with most commodities – unlike salaries – the Sunday newspaper increased its price to one dollar and fifty cents. 

In today’s economy there are not many items with a price tag of 50 cents. Two quarters, five dimes, ten nickels or fifty pennies – no matter how you count it it’s fifty cents. Noisy currency – change that can wear a hole in pockets over time!

Unexpected kindness

Each Sunday after church my routine – head to the corner and grab a paper–I love the coupons. This particular Sunday it was raining cats and dogs. Drenched, my paper-man approached with a smile. While he searched for change the Lord laid on my heart to do something extraordinary.  Opposed to waiting and allowing my man to get soaked I gave two dollars and told him “keep the change.”

The Widow’s offering

This small gesture reminded me of the widow’s offering – Mark 12: 41-44. Many rich people threw in large amounts but a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins… This poor widow put in more than all the others.

Please understand I am not being a boastful Pharisee. The point I am conveying is my four bits may not seem like much but to someone else it could mean the world. Giving a little from the heart can go a long way.

God is pleased with good deeds

The book of Hebrews – 13:16 – reminds us not to forget to do good and share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Be encouraged, find ways to give from the heart or bless someone. So, the next time you purchase a paper, cup of coffee, or see a homeless person give them the change because God loves a cheerful giver.

Unsuspected recipients

Keep the change

I have continued the goodwill gesture of “keeping the change” for six months. The overall reaction from unsuspected recipients - amazed, peppered with genuine “I really appreciate this very much.” Yet, on occasion there are those who don’t say a thing. But it is the gleeful smile from a teenage girl which reassures me that my fifty cents does make a difference. I drive away thanking God for another opportunity share with others even if it is just spare change – fifty cents.

God has a sense of humor even when you get bit by a rabid raccoon

When life is a total bust

One never knows what God has in store. Just when life appears to be in a tailspin God takes control. In the darkest hour of pain God don’t make sense but it is during those moments of despair He tends to reveal His sense of humor. 

This past weekend best-selling author, Haywood Smith testified of her journey before writing her thirteenth novel. Her forthcoming book – Out of Warranty – with St. Martins Press will be book fourteen (release date January 22^nd.) After meeting Ms. Smith I am convinced God loves a good laugh – even if it is at the expense of others. 

When life appeared to be a total bust for one of the South’s greatest literary Southern Belles – Haywood Smith – God planted a new vision which supports my theory of God’s humor.  When individuals can make light of bad situations burdens are lifted.

God has a sense of humor

In 1 Samuel chapter 5 the Philistines stole the Ark of God. In a series of practical jokes God reviled his humorous side.  When the people of Ashdod rose the next day there was Dagon, fallen on his face before the Ark of the Lord v 3-4. But the heavy hand of God’s humor came when he smote the guilty with emrods – translation – hemorrhoids v6.  In the midst of tense moments humor can be an elixir.  

Purpose driven life

Haywood Smith - Out of Warranty 
photo: Tigner J.

After years of suffering a heart wrenching divorce, odd jobs, and health issues it was not until the age of forty that Haywood found her purpose driven life – writing novels.  For the past twenty plus years Haywood has captured the hearts of avid readers from her series of historical romance novels and several best-sellers – The Red Hat Club and Queen Bee of Mimosa Branch.  Haywood found God’s humor hilarious even when life looked bleak.

Haywood Smith's new novel

Out of Warranty is a witty take of people dealing with today’s health insurance dilemmas.  In many ways this novel took its cue from real-life issues effecting Haywood’s health struggles. Even the horror of rabies shots which can make the strongest weak. If it were not for that doggone rabid raccoon where would Haywood be now?

Finding God in your pain

The next time you asses your life’s tragedies take a minute to read the Southern sass from author Haywood Smith. Be reminded if Ms. Smith can find God’s humor through setbacks, misfortunes, and rabid raccoons surely you can find a moment to laugh with God through your life’s adventures. 

Dominoes... A game of chance just like Life

Hand of Dominoes

Keep asking that God of our Lord Jesus Christ may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation so that you may know him better.  Ephesians 2:17 (15-20)

My father was a domino fanatic. A daily ritual – wake-up,work, eat, and slam bones. Nightly his crew would battle – Russell, Pee-Wee and a few others. This was a game of war no mercy – may the best man win – strategic moves, name calling until the break of dawn.  The sound of Dominoes click-clacking reminds me of life.

There are similarities between Dominoes and life both are a game of chance.  To play, first know the rules. Either follow them or choose your own path. For both - every thought a decision has to be made - right or wrong - good or bad.  There is a way that appears to be right but in the end it leads to death Proverb 14:12.

Life choices playing Dominoes

Shuffle

In the beginning all dominoes are "shuffled."  Life shuffles or rearranges our goals – we loose direction. Confusion develops blocks.

 When we seek God, his kingdom, and righteousness, our goals will be placed in order Matthew 6:33.

Block

The lost of direction cause setbacks – a "block.”  With no moves we make irrational decisions. We reach for help from the bone yard. 

Things that hinder us set them aside, fix our eyes on Jesus Hebrews 12:1-2.

Bone yard

We gather dominoes from the bone yard. We randomly select – ideas, goals or dreams. We hope for the best. When all else fail we draw again from the reserve in suspense.

Take your dreams to God. Don’t depend on your understanding. Submit to God, he will layout your path Proverb 3:6

Layout

What is before us is a table of connected dots - we play and  layout each Domino – some are winning hands, others retreat back to the bone yard eager for another opportunity.

Stop wishing. Rely on your faith and trust in the Lord. Proverb 3:5

Father and son

Dominoes was the game where I connected with my father and learned Man talk. In between trash talking, counting, and analyzing there was a bond – a sense of togetherness. God desires for us to choose him in our game of life. Do you trust him?

Each game 'pops' and I played - All problems were laid out in a row – on the table. I calculated each move - every thought began with a decision. The end result we had fun no tension everything was carefree – until I yelled DOMINO!

The Gift of Transparency

Submitted by: 

 Buddy McElhannon

Two thirds through my veggie taco lunch I looked up and spotted a familiar face.  A former colleague – now a vendor rep – saw me and made a beeline for my table. Ken had retired a few years ago and moved into vendor sales.  He had the personality of a salesman, always smiling, always talking, and always seemed like he was about to make a sales pitch.  His manner occasionally bordered on the obnoxious but I only hesitated a moment when he asked if he could join me.  Hoping he didn’t notice the cautionary tone, I welcomed him with a “Sure, have seat.”

Our conversation was light, catching up on who was still working, who had retired, and who had died.  Unfortunately we knew more of the latter and less of the former.  We briefly discussed retirement plans.  I could tell from the way he talked he was unaware that I had lost my wife 2 years previous.  I decided not to mention it, as I just did not want to spend another 20 minutes talking about it.   But something prompted me and when Ken took another bite of his sandwich I simply stated, “I don’t know if you heard but I lost my wife 2 years ago to cancer.” 

God working through the hearts of men

Ken’s response was typical, a look of shock followed by a heartfelt, “No, I didn’t know, I am so sorry.”  What followed next, humbled me yet again at how a loving God works in the hearts of men.  Ken stared at me as if not knowing what to say next.  His blank silent look only magnified the growing moisture in his eyes.  He looked briefly away and then as if a decision had just been made he turned back to me and said.  “Now I know why I met you today.”

He was no longer a salesman.  He was a wounded heart thankful for an opportunity to talk with an understanding soul.  He related how his wife Patty had just had her annual mammogram with the result being an order from the Doctor for a biopsy. Needless to say, they were stunned. They had yet to tell anyone, not even their daughter. This always confident salesman now possessed all the assurance of baseball batter in a slump.  He had no idea what to do, what to say or how to help his wife.  With a look that reflected both desperation and gratitude, he confessed, “I may need your help.”



What is love

I simply encouraged him and told him to take one step at a time, wait for the results and just be there for his spouse.  I commented that as much as he wants to fix it (doesn’t every man), right now he needs stay close to his wife, be a good listener and a strong shoulder.   And call me when they get the news and we will talk some more.  He once again smiled at the providential meeting and asked for my prayers.  I reached out, touched his arm and said “how about right now.”  We bowed our heads and I prayed, “Lord, may Ken and Patty know your loving and healing presence.  Be with them now and give them strength and faith to follow you through this storm.”

Shaking hands we then turned and walked in opposite directions.  That lonely lunch had become a battleground of faith.  I remembered my morning prayer.  “Lord, help me to help others.” 

The gift of transparency had been unwrapped again.

Reflections of Gratitude in 2012

Happy New Year

As an adult I often reflected on childhood accomplishments some were exciting while others I wish could be erased from memory.  Today, I ponder 2012, how grateful I am of God’s blessings:

- A home to rest my head

- A job

- Good health

Many families faced evictions and no place to live.  No matter how mundane the job I am blessed because unemployment and his first cousin – poverty and homeless – have visited someone’s door today.  Decent health has covered me while others less fortunate are forfeited an opportunity to basic medical care.

As we live from day to day, it would be great to say there are no traumatic times – no sorrow or sadness – but that would be a lie.  Our mind’s mirrors projects an image of everything good and bad. But what should resonate into memory are God’s blessings.

Reflections of 2012

Looking back over the past 362 days our nation experienced calamities, the loss of celebrities, friends, family, and the unknown. There were occurrences that did not turn out as anticipated – jobs, family matters, or life.  As sorrow filled hearts and despite the outcome God still found favor by providing us with one more day of life! The key to a joyful life is to be thankful and praise God during the good or bad times. What reflections of gratitude do you have?

• Name 365 blessings - one for each day of the year
• 12 - one for each month of the year
• Learn to count your blessings one by one and praise God for them all

 Shining bright in 2013

The dawning of 2013 will rise up soon. How are you preparing for a phenomenal year? 

•  Write down goals
•  How do you plan to get there
• Who can you help reach their goals

                Regardless how much rain has fallen remember it did not last always.  Recant the sunny days in 2012 and may they shine bright like a diamond in 2013.

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Remembering where God has brought you from

Submitted by: Carl F. Hunter II, M.Div  

 And God spake all these words, saying, I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.  Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Exodus 20:1-3 KJV

Surviving your feelings

On any given day life can get the best of us. We can be anywhere on the emotional barometer because folks, situations, or circumstances don’t produce the byproduct that we desire. We might be feeling the burdens of life are just too much for us and we want something outside of ourselves to pacify us or put some cut on the self-destructive thoughts that are oppressing our spirits.

Many of us just have a problem with surviving our feelings, which at any given time have no basis, but in the moment it seems very real and insurmountable. In fact, the feelings blind us from seeing God’s presence and deafen our spiritual ears from hearing God’s voice. Most importantly, we suffer from a type of amnesia that keeps us from remembering where God has brought us from.     

Shema Affirmation

Anxieties of life

In the Jewish tradition The Shema is said in the morning and at night. The Shema is an affirmation of Judaism and a declaration of faith in one God. It is something that keeps them in touch with “Who they are,” Whose they are”, and “Where he has brought them from”. We tend to forget that at the most inopportune time.

Fear is your bondage

• What would happen if our response in the midst of the storm was not panic, fret or despair, when the undertow of life wanted to consume?

• What would happen if our response to the storm was to hold on to the life preserving reality of the fidelity and faithfulness of God?

Mental bondage

• What would happen if “you” could remember, just for a moment, where GOD has brought “YOU” from?

• Would you move past the giants that are oppressing your spirit and then you open the door for the manifestation of “HOPE” – which is fertilizer for faith.

•  When faith overtakes your F.E.A.R. (False Expectations Appearing Real) then you are able to move from a state of panic to a state of praise.

 

Free from bondage

If you are in a place where life seems to be getting the best of you, I ask you to first: Take a deep breath and exhale. Second, take a moment to remember YOUR Egypt – YOUR HOUSE of BONDAGE – and where God has brought you from. Now, that you have a point of reference, “Will the God of your understanding see you through what you are currently going through?”

Pray this with me: In the name of Jesus, in my current state Lord I’m going to trust in you for my deliverance. In the midst of my current condition, I am going to hold you to your promise “that you will never leave me or forsake me”. In Jesus Name, AMEN

Peace

About the writer:
Reverend Hunter is an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church and a graduate of New Brunswick Theological Seminary. Reverend Hunter is a frequent contributor to The Soul’s Remedy. His prior submission are entitled "Remembering Where God Brought you From"  and “There isGreatness In You”. Reverend Hunter is a father and a grandfather, and resides in New Jersey.

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