With Christmas approaching next week, I am excited. People say that Christmas is not about gifts but they are missing the point. Christmas is about gifts. Jesus Christ is the gift God gave to the world. God gave to his family so that we could have life more abundantly, free from guilt and sin.
I desire to have a heart to give that is not based on a calendar but through the inspiration of my heart. I am reflecting on a verse "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another." I John 4: 10-11
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Monday, December 17, 2012
When will I see the promise
When will I see the promise?
I take comfort in knowing that God keeps His promises. It is the waiting for the promise that can be frustrating. You see I know faith is required to endure the waiting process but it is not easy. I am am conditioned to not be patient. I am bombarded with products that are supposed to make my life easier but only make it more confusing. Nothing I do and nothing I have can replace the desire for God's promises. That is why it is frustrating. I trying to work for the promise but God wants to give the promise.
What I am realizing is when I stop looking for the promise I will see the promise. I don't have to work for it but surrender to it. God has great things in store for me and if I keep the faith I will be great. You see as He told Abram I will make you a great nation. I am the promise. When I surrender to what God has spoken over my life. He will make me great, I just follow His lead.
I take comfort in knowing that God keeps His promises. It is the waiting for the promise that can be frustrating. You see I know faith is required to endure the waiting process but it is not easy. I am am conditioned to not be patient. I am bombarded with products that are supposed to make my life easier but only make it more confusing. Nothing I do and nothing I have can replace the desire for God's promises. That is why it is frustrating. I trying to work for the promise but God wants to give the promise.
What I am realizing is when I stop looking for the promise I will see the promise. I don't have to work for it but surrender to it. God has great things in store for me and if I keep the faith I will be great. You see as He told Abram I will make you a great nation. I am the promise. When I surrender to what God has spoken over my life. He will make me great, I just follow His lead.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Get off your butt and get to business!
"In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water. 4 For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.
5 And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? 7 The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. 8 Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk." John 5:3-8
The thought came to me today. "Get off your butt and get to business." So many times, I can get complacent, waiting for something to inspire me to action. I am not waiting on God, God is waiting on me to act. The man was sitting waiting for a man to come put him in the pool at the right time so that he could be healed. He believed in someone else's ability to help him but did not believe he could help himself. Think about how many people passed this man ignoring him and his situation.
Sometimes I feel likes this man, waiting for someone to notice my situation and be willing to help me overcome my challenges, and no one comes to my rescue. But God does not want me to remain "impotent" he wants me to be whole.
"Get off your butt and get to business."
Instead of concentrating on my issues I will get up and get to work on all that has been placed on my heart. I don't need someone to come rescue me for I have already been rescued. Like the impotent man God has already given me the gift of healing, I just have to accept it and use it. Whatever I desire God has already placed it in my heart and when I get to business my needs are met continually.
So, if you find yourself, stuck, looking for a sign or something to inspire you to action. Realize that you already have what you need, you just have to get off your butt and get to business.
5 And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? 7 The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. 8 Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk." John 5:3-8
The thought came to me today. "Get off your butt and get to business." So many times, I can get complacent, waiting for something to inspire me to action. I am not waiting on God, God is waiting on me to act. The man was sitting waiting for a man to come put him in the pool at the right time so that he could be healed. He believed in someone else's ability to help him but did not believe he could help himself. Think about how many people passed this man ignoring him and his situation.
Sometimes I feel likes this man, waiting for someone to notice my situation and be willing to help me overcome my challenges, and no one comes to my rescue. But God does not want me to remain "impotent" he wants me to be whole.
"Get off your butt and get to business."
Instead of concentrating on my issues I will get up and get to work on all that has been placed on my heart. I don't need someone to come rescue me for I have already been rescued. Like the impotent man God has already given me the gift of healing, I just have to accept it and use it. Whatever I desire God has already placed it in my heart and when I get to business my needs are met continually.
So, if you find yourself, stuck, looking for a sign or something to inspire you to action. Realize that you already have what you need, you just have to get off your butt and get to business.
Monday, August 27, 2012
A handful of peace
"Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit." Ecclesiastes 4:6As I reflect on this passage I think about all the times I have worked so hard to get my "hands full". By the time my hands are full I am too exhausted to enjoy what I obtained. When I study this verse it is not saying you have little but rather you have a handful. One hand is full while the other is free. Which to me means I have more than enough, as well as peace to go along with it.
When my children play with their toys, they gather all their toys in both hands so no one can play with their toys but them. They are so worried about someone taking what they have that they can't play with their toys. I rather have one "toy" and get to play with it and enjoy it than ten "toys" and never get to enjoy them.
Life is meant to be enjoyed.
Today appreciate the "handfuls" that life has to offer and embrace the peace as it comes with it.
Friday, July 13, 2012
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Monday, July 9, 2012
Backed by God
"Then David put garrisons in Syria of Damascus: and the Syrians became servants to David, and brought gifts. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.
14And he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom put he garrisons, and all they of Edom became David's servants. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went." 2 Samuel 8: 6, 14
As I read 2 Samuel 8 today, these two scriptures spoke to me. David had been at war with his enemies. He took on all comers and he won. Wherever he decided to go, God preserved him.
In life, we are faced with many obstacles. Some we choice to confront, some that come as a surprise. As David learned, no matter where we find ourselves God is there preserving us. We can face today with full confidence that God has His hands on our life. We don't have to fear the adversity that comes our way. We also don't have to run from any battles that are before us. We can overcome all battles through our faith in God. God has placed greatness in us and when we realize who we are, no enemy stands a chance against us. Walk with confidence, God has your back.
14And he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom put he garrisons, and all they of Edom became David's servants. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went." 2 Samuel 8: 6, 14
As I read 2 Samuel 8 today, these two scriptures spoke to me. David had been at war with his enemies. He took on all comers and he won. Wherever he decided to go, God preserved him.
In life, we are faced with many obstacles. Some we choice to confront, some that come as a surprise. As David learned, no matter where we find ourselves God is there preserving us. We can face today with full confidence that God has His hands on our life. We don't have to fear the adversity that comes our way. We also don't have to run from any battles that are before us. We can overcome all battles through our faith in God. God has placed greatness in us and when we realize who we are, no enemy stands a chance against us. Walk with confidence, God has your back.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
You Qualify
There is nothing wrong with you.
In this world we are told who we are is not good enough. We look for someone to identify with but everywhere we turn our "flaws" are magnified. If you go to church people look at you crazy. If you go around your family, they want to flood you with advices on how to be more like them. The news and media tells us to worry about things that we were not thinking about until they mentioned it. Doctors tell us to take medication, friends tell us to take a vacation, parents tell us everything else. Through the process of many influences we live with many voices in our mind telling us what is in our heart to do is wrong.
We hide behind an image that we hate yet accept. We live stressed, depressed, and frustrated. Then we wonder why we abuse ourselves with food, drinks, medications, relationships looking for an outlet to distract us from our tired lives.
Jesus Christ came into a world much like this one. Where people were existing but not living. They were sick, depressed, afraid, alone, hungry and know what He healed them all. If He could do that for them why can He not do it for you now? If you are lost, you qualify. If you are sick, you qualify. If you are heartbroken, you qualify.
Jesus said "The Kingdom of Heaven is within you" You don't have to look beyond what is in you to receive what you need. Through Jesus Christ you have full access to His Kingdom. Turn from all the voices that have kept you from your happiness and peace and hear the voice of God within you.
In this world we are told who we are is not good enough. We look for someone to identify with but everywhere we turn our "flaws" are magnified. If you go to church people look at you crazy. If you go around your family, they want to flood you with advices on how to be more like them. The news and media tells us to worry about things that we were not thinking about until they mentioned it. Doctors tell us to take medication, friends tell us to take a vacation, parents tell us everything else. Through the process of many influences we live with many voices in our mind telling us what is in our heart to do is wrong.
We hide behind an image that we hate yet accept. We live stressed, depressed, and frustrated. Then we wonder why we abuse ourselves with food, drinks, medications, relationships looking for an outlet to distract us from our tired lives.
Jesus Christ came into a world much like this one. Where people were existing but not living. They were sick, depressed, afraid, alone, hungry and know what He healed them all. If He could do that for them why can He not do it for you now? If you are lost, you qualify. If you are sick, you qualify. If you are heartbroken, you qualify.
Jesus said "The Kingdom of Heaven is within you" You don't have to look beyond what is in you to receive what you need. Through Jesus Christ you have full access to His Kingdom. Turn from all the voices that have kept you from your happiness and peace and hear the voice of God within you.
What do you do? When it does not happen.
God can I be real for a moment. I believe in you but yet I suffer. It does not make sense to live expecting for you to move in my life and I don't see it realized. I am backed up against a wall here.
Do you see me? What do you expect me to do? Should I keep working, writing, teaching what do you want from me? Really this is pitful and I hate pity. I know pride is not good but being humble hurts too much. Every time I let down my guard and start expecting the impossible I am left still expecting. I feel like a blind man yearning to see can you please give me direction?
I am just a man but what does that really mean? Why must I suffer? Why must I be hurt? I know I am suppose to be grateful but I have to be honest. I can not live without you hearing all of me. Maybe I should not be blogging this. Maybe this is too personal and people may take this the wrong way. I don't care. I must be honest with you. For in my honesty you receive me. You don't judge or condemn me but love me.
I see now that what I go through is not for me but for others. It is so that I can taste what they taste and feel what they feel. It is so that my heart can be filled with compassion understanding their struggle and life. That is what you show me. That is why I write. You transform my negatively and create a new perspective. You take my darkness and give me a path full of light. Thank you God for listening to me and embracing me. Confession truly does lead to Salvation. :)
Okay back to the question What do you do? Be honest and confess to God only He truly understands your situation. I felt bad, frustrated, discouraged before this blog but now I leave hopeful, happy, and loved. God is good. Don't allow anyone to make you think you are unworthy of a relationship with Him. Wherever you are right now you have the opportunity to speak to Him for yourself.
01/18/12
Do you see me? What do you expect me to do? Should I keep working, writing, teaching what do you want from me? Really this is pitful and I hate pity. I know pride is not good but being humble hurts too much. Every time I let down my guard and start expecting the impossible I am left still expecting. I feel like a blind man yearning to see can you please give me direction?
I am just a man but what does that really mean? Why must I suffer? Why must I be hurt? I know I am suppose to be grateful but I have to be honest. I can not live without you hearing all of me. Maybe I should not be blogging this. Maybe this is too personal and people may take this the wrong way. I don't care. I must be honest with you. For in my honesty you receive me. You don't judge or condemn me but love me.
I see now that what I go through is not for me but for others. It is so that I can taste what they taste and feel what they feel. It is so that my heart can be filled with compassion understanding their struggle and life. That is what you show me. That is why I write. You transform my negatively and create a new perspective. You take my darkness and give me a path full of light. Thank you God for listening to me and embracing me. Confession truly does lead to Salvation. :)
Okay back to the question What do you do? Be honest and confess to God only He truly understands your situation. I felt bad, frustrated, discouraged before this blog but now I leave hopeful, happy, and loved. God is good. Don't allow anyone to make you think you are unworthy of a relationship with Him. Wherever you are right now you have the opportunity to speak to Him for yourself.
01/18/12
God's love is amazing
I am learning that in spite of my ignorance and pride, God still love me. In my flaws I am still in the midst of His love. Because of His love I now can see the world in a new way. If I am worthy of God's love so is everyone else. When you know you are loved. It does something to you. It changes you. No matter where I am, God's love is with me.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
I am loved
What inspires me is the knowledge that I am loved. Wherever I am, God loves is present with me. That is what makes life worth living.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Thoughts on God
I find comfort in knowing that God regards every detail of my life. There is nothing that goes unseen. I don't have to put on a show for God, for I am known. I am accepted and loved and because of this I can learn.
A great teacher can pull students out of their shell so that they can learn. When a student does not feel loved and safe they don't open up. God accepts us as we are, which allows us to learn who we are created to be.
I have to keep my focus on God, receiving grace so I can live life to its fullest.
A great teacher can pull students out of their shell so that they can learn. When a student does not feel loved and safe they don't open up. God accepts us as we are, which allows us to learn who we are created to be.
I have to keep my focus on God, receiving grace so I can live life to its fullest.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Scripture Bullies
I am tired of hearing "Christians" quote scriptures with no understanding or wisdom. I love the bible but it is upsetting to see people use it as a weapon of hate against people that don't live according to their beliefs. All they are doing is turning people away from wanting to get to know God better. No one likes being around a bully and more than anything it shows a lack of relationship with God.
Jesus Christ came not to establish a religious order but give life to all men. No matter what your background is, you are able to come to Him as you are. He accepts everyone with open arms and does not need "bouncers" controlling who gets into the club. Love conquers all, don't be a stumblingblock to someone getting what they need from God. It is not about what we say or do, it all about what Jesus Christ as already done. What is He has done is the gospel and the gospel is what we all need.
Jesus Christ came not to establish a religious order but give life to all men. No matter what your background is, you are able to come to Him as you are. He accepts everyone with open arms and does not need "bouncers" controlling who gets into the club. Love conquers all, don't be a stumblingblock to someone getting what they need from God. It is not about what we say or do, it all about what Jesus Christ as already done. What is He has done is the gospel and the gospel is what we all need.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Simply Pray
Sometimes I just need to pray. I get so caught up in chaos of my day that I don't make communicating with God a priority. I spend more time on social media sites, sharing what I am doing, that I lose sight of what is important to me. Trying to squeeze in time for God does not work for me. For it is not quality time. I am still thinking about what I need to do next and when I am done praying, I don't feel any more confident or at peace than I did before I prayed. I don't want to just pray out of habit like I am checking an email.
When I make it my priority. Prayer/Mediation allows me to unload my thoughts and find my way again. Prayer gives me what I need to live in this crazy world. No matter where I am, God has made me His priority and through seeking Him first I receive peace and love that stays with me throughout my day.
Have a great day and don't forget to pray :)
When I make it my priority. Prayer/Mediation allows me to unload my thoughts and find my way again. Prayer gives me what I need to live in this crazy world. No matter where I am, God has made me His priority and through seeking Him first I receive peace and love that stays with me throughout my day.
Have a great day and don't forget to pray :)
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Voiceless people
20 So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets together unto mount Carmel.
21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word. 22 Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men. I Kings 19:20-22
In this day many have lost their voice. Listening to the voices of others, we have followed after things that have taken our power to speak. We believe in God but doubt his power to working in our lives. If the Lord is God follow Him. If our creations are god let us follow them. We have been conditioned to believe the words of doctors, preachers, teachers, presidents as if they are true but the voice within our hearts we constantly question. Faith is a powerful agent of change when it is towards the One that possess true power.
Elijah was tired of the opinions and lack of faith. He wanted to see a demonstation of God's power. Through his faith the children of Israel found their voice.
39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.
Your faith allows people around you to find their voice. The voice within that is able to lead and guide you to an abundant life. The voice that takes you from famine to abundance.
I want to follow a God that can do the impossible. A God that works beyond symptoms and gives a cure. A God that desires to demonstate His love and power constantly in my life. That is a God to believe in and that is the God I choose to follow.
21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word. 22 Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men. I Kings 19:20-22
In this day many have lost their voice. Listening to the voices of others, we have followed after things that have taken our power to speak. We believe in God but doubt his power to working in our lives. If the Lord is God follow Him. If our creations are god let us follow them. We have been conditioned to believe the words of doctors, preachers, teachers, presidents as if they are true but the voice within our hearts we constantly question. Faith is a powerful agent of change when it is towards the One that possess true power.
Elijah was tired of the opinions and lack of faith. He wanted to see a demonstation of God's power. Through his faith the children of Israel found their voice.
39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.
Your faith allows people around you to find their voice. The voice within that is able to lead and guide you to an abundant life. The voice that takes you from famine to abundance.
I want to follow a God that can do the impossible. A God that works beyond symptoms and gives a cure. A God that desires to demonstate His love and power constantly in my life. That is a God to believe in and that is the God I choose to follow.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Pressing Forward
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3)
Let go of the past. Everyday is an opportunity to get better. Focus on what is ahead you not what is behind you.
No matter how great or bad yesterday was. Today is a new day. Embrace it.
Let go of the past. Everyday is an opportunity to get better. Focus on what is ahead you not what is behind you.
No matter how great or bad yesterday was. Today is a new day. Embrace it.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Don't waste your time, be diligent
"Without faith it is impossible to please him (God): for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."
It is not enough to desire something if you are unwilling to go after it. You can believe that God is a healer but if you don't seek healing, what's the point.
When the evidence speaks contrary, keep pursuing God. It is important to focus on God not your situation. Don't settle for anything less than what God has promised you. Don't waste your time worrying. Be diligent :)
It is not enough to desire something if you are unwilling to go after it. You can believe that God is a healer but if you don't seek healing, what's the point.
When the evidence speaks contrary, keep pursuing God. It is important to focus on God not your situation. Don't settle for anything less than what God has promised you. Don't waste your time worrying. Be diligent :)
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