On December 25th each year the birthday of Christ is celebrated. Or is it? How often are you reminded of the reason for the season?
In case you did not know, the actual day of Christ birth is not known. What we do know is that He was born, He died, and He rose from the dead. That is the Gospel truth. In the current culture today, it is very unpopular to remind anyone that the reason for the celebration should never be overshadowed by the buying of gifts, trees, etc. When did this notion that you have to buy gifts for others for Christmas begin? Whoever started needs to explain it to me. If we understand what the Bible teaches, we would know that the best gift we can give Jesus is our heart. After doing this, then we should live lives that demonstrate that we have trusted in Him. This would be a joyful everlasting gift that I am sure He would be pleased to receive.
It is truly impossible to celebrate His birthday without reverencing the purpose of His life and death. He died that we might live.
Be Blessed and may God grant you peace everlasting.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
"The Will of the Lord be done!"
Acts 21: 10-14 "As we were staying there for some days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11 And coming to us, he took Paul's belt and bound his own feet and hands, and said, "This is what the Holy Spirit says: 'In this way the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.' " 12 When we had heard this, we as well as the local residents began begging him not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." 14 And since he would not be persuaded, we fell silent, remarking, "The will of the Lord be done!"
In this passage of Scripture, Paul hears a prophecy that he will be bound and instead of relenting, he stated that he was even willing to die. The people then responded "The will of the Lord be done." If only this were the response of Christians today. Instead of praying that the Lord's will be done, there is a teaching today that encourages Christians to say, "I won't receive that." Many Christians believe that all they have to do is say "I don't receive that nothing bad will happen to me." This troubles me because I wonder if we truly understand what this means. Are we saying to God that we have the power to dictate what He wills for our lives? Are we really saying to the God of the Universe that we do not accept the path that He has chosen for our lives? Do we feel that sickness, poverty, or any other suffering is okay for others, but not for us? God forbid. But, that is indeed what we are saying,when we say "I won't receive that." In addition to Paul, we have biblical examples such as David, Job, & Esther and many others who understood that God was indeed in control of their situation. As a matter of fact, the entire Bible is replete with examples of how we are to govern ourselves as Christians. We are to pray for God's will to be done.
Prov. 3:5-6 states, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight." This Scripture affirms that we are to acknowledge God in everything and perhaps we really do not know,what is best for us. As an example, let me share a personal testimony. Two years ago, my husband and I put our house up for sale and were going to build a new home. After six months we took the house off the market. We were not disappointed in this process, because we had prayed for God's will to be done. We do nothing without acknowledging God's guidance through the Holy Spirit. As you all may know, the housing market has crashed and that same house that we were going to build would have depreciated by $75,000. Further, the interest rate has dropped from 7.5% to 5.1%. I thank God that there is nothing that I desire more than Him. I fully understand that each and every time that He has allowed me to go through something, that it was for a purpose. Sometimes we cause our suffering because of bad decisions, and sometimes God allows our suffering for a specific purpose.
Paul went so far in His commitment to God that he stated that he was not afraid to be bound or even die in the name of the Lord Jesus. I pray that each of us can be confident enough in our faith that we too can say "the will of the Lord be done."
Be blessed.
In this passage of Scripture, Paul hears a prophecy that he will be bound and instead of relenting, he stated that he was even willing to die. The people then responded "The will of the Lord be done." If only this were the response of Christians today. Instead of praying that the Lord's will be done, there is a teaching today that encourages Christians to say, "I won't receive that." Many Christians believe that all they have to do is say "I don't receive that nothing bad will happen to me." This troubles me because I wonder if we truly understand what this means. Are we saying to God that we have the power to dictate what He wills for our lives? Are we really saying to the God of the Universe that we do not accept the path that He has chosen for our lives? Do we feel that sickness, poverty, or any other suffering is okay for others, but not for us? God forbid. But, that is indeed what we are saying,when we say "I won't receive that." In addition to Paul, we have biblical examples such as David, Job, & Esther and many others who understood that God was indeed in control of their situation. As a matter of fact, the entire Bible is replete with examples of how we are to govern ourselves as Christians. We are to pray for God's will to be done.
Prov. 3:5-6 states, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight." This Scripture affirms that we are to acknowledge God in everything and perhaps we really do not know,what is best for us. As an example, let me share a personal testimony. Two years ago, my husband and I put our house up for sale and were going to build a new home. After six months we took the house off the market. We were not disappointed in this process, because we had prayed for God's will to be done. We do nothing without acknowledging God's guidance through the Holy Spirit. As you all may know, the housing market has crashed and that same house that we were going to build would have depreciated by $75,000. Further, the interest rate has dropped from 7.5% to 5.1%. I thank God that there is nothing that I desire more than Him. I fully understand that each and every time that He has allowed me to go through something, that it was for a purpose. Sometimes we cause our suffering because of bad decisions, and sometimes God allows our suffering for a specific purpose.
Paul went so far in His commitment to God that he stated that he was not afraid to be bound or even die in the name of the Lord Jesus. I pray that each of us can be confident enough in our faith that we too can say "the will of the Lord be done."
Be blessed.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
What a Great Day!
Hello All:
I had a great day today and I pray that you did as well. I had a conversation with someone that I had not spoken to in over 25 years. He is now a Pastor and lives right here in Georgia and was equally as excited to hear that I was also a Minister. It is always wonderful to hear how God has called so many to proclaim the Gospel. This however does not absolve all Christians from sharing the Gospel of Christ. Just remind others of why He died, for whom He died, that He is risen, and that He is coming back again.
Be Blessed
I had a great day today and I pray that you did as well. I had a conversation with someone that I had not spoken to in over 25 years. He is now a Pastor and lives right here in Georgia and was equally as excited to hear that I was also a Minister. It is always wonderful to hear how God has called so many to proclaim the Gospel. This however does not absolve all Christians from sharing the Gospel of Christ. Just remind others of why He died, for whom He died, that He is risen, and that He is coming back again.
Be Blessed
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Breathe
On each day and everyday that God gives us, we must allow ourselves time to breathe. Sounds easy enough, yet many of us are so busy "doing," that there is hardly time to breathe. Is it possible for us to realize that whatever we don't complete today will be there to do tomorrow? I am thankful to God that I have lived long enough to realize that I cannot be so busy that I forget to breathe. It is necessary for us to take time to breathe. This may come in the form of doing something as simple as taking a bubble bath.....yeah, remember when we wouldn't think twice of buying a house without a soaking tub? The purpose of the tub was to take actual tub baths...... What about a picnic in the park, or sitting on the porch or deck and read a book ?? I am being practical regarding the need to breathe. God needs us to be engaged in life, but not so engaged that we don't take time to refresh. To be effective, rest is necessary!!!
Be encouraged today and breathe!!!
Be encouraged today and breathe!!!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Reflection on Michael Jackson- "This is it" Movie
Today I had the opportunity to be at the first viewing of the Michael Jackson movie and I would like to share my reflections.
I attended the movie with my 22 year old daughter who really didn't want to see the movie. She works at the theater, so naturally she was my ticket in. (She was forced--LOL) Anyway, she remarked after the movie that she was glad that she had seen it.
What I found most remarkable about the film is the fact that Michael Jackson is dead. What I was watching, was indeed the last recorded film of his life. It finally hit home that all that talent was forever silenced. A very long time ago Michael was a star to me that could never be measured against any other. He was more that a singer, he was an entertainer with talent. He did more with his life in 50 years than most people do in 75 years of life. He definitely had many issues to face in his life, but did he really ask to be any one person's Hero or did he ever ask anyone to idolize him? I would think not. He did appreciate the love that was shown towards him, but I don't believe that he ever wanted the "worship" that he received throughout his lifetime. For those of you who don't agree that it was "worship," you have not seen too many his concerts. Regardless of how Michael lived his life, I can truly say today that his death is a loss to the world because of his talent. I also reflect on the possibility that now perhaps the world would never put anyone on a pedestal as they did Michael. Although it is quite possible to love celebrities and appreciate their talent, we must never place them is such high regard that it causes us to "worship" them in anyway. So my final reflection on the movie is to say that I totally enjoyed seeing Michael perform because I appreciated and loved seeing how talented he was. But, I also reflect on the fact that he believed in God, and as such, had to have recognized that God is a jealous God. I pray that all of us would consider that God alone deserves Worship. Moreover, HE wants us to Worship Him in Spirit and in Truth. You must know Him to Worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.
Be Blessed.
I attended the movie with my 22 year old daughter who really didn't want to see the movie. She works at the theater, so naturally she was my ticket in. (She was forced--LOL) Anyway, she remarked after the movie that she was glad that she had seen it.
What I found most remarkable about the film is the fact that Michael Jackson is dead. What I was watching, was indeed the last recorded film of his life. It finally hit home that all that talent was forever silenced. A very long time ago Michael was a star to me that could never be measured against any other. He was more that a singer, he was an entertainer with talent. He did more with his life in 50 years than most people do in 75 years of life. He definitely had many issues to face in his life, but did he really ask to be any one person's Hero or did he ever ask anyone to idolize him? I would think not. He did appreciate the love that was shown towards him, but I don't believe that he ever wanted the "worship" that he received throughout his lifetime. For those of you who don't agree that it was "worship," you have not seen too many his concerts. Regardless of how Michael lived his life, I can truly say today that his death is a loss to the world because of his talent. I also reflect on the possibility that now perhaps the world would never put anyone on a pedestal as they did Michael. Although it is quite possible to love celebrities and appreciate their talent, we must never place them is such high regard that it causes us to "worship" them in anyway. So my final reflection on the movie is to say that I totally enjoyed seeing Michael perform because I appreciated and loved seeing how talented he was. But, I also reflect on the fact that he believed in God, and as such, had to have recognized that God is a jealous God. I pray that all of us would consider that God alone deserves Worship. Moreover, HE wants us to Worship Him in Spirit and in Truth. You must know Him to Worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.
Be Blessed.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Strong black woman
This blog is in response to a terrible video that is being circulated on Youtube about the "death of blacks." I have copied my response to my FB friend who posted it on his page.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AugKnRQx48&feature=player_embedded
Hi My Friend John: As I define myself as a strong black woman, I hold my head up high knowing that I never bought the lie. I have to say that most of what was depicted by the "white" speaker in this video is not true. The strong black women like myself are never seen or interviewed. As an educated black woman, I recognized quickly that if you ... Read Moremess up by picking the wrong "black man", you should take corrective action and leave him. Strong means that a woman should know that she does not have to depend on any man for her self-worth. Strong means that it is okay to love your man and expect him to do the same. Strong means that you recognize that if any job stresses you to death then you need to find another one. Don't stay and complain--that's weak. Strong means that you train up your children correctly and not wait for a judge to do it for you. Strong means that you don't let other people, black or white tell you what is important to you. No Oprah or Dr. Phil knows what is best for you. Strong is staying in the game especially when things get tough. The best tea comes from hot water. I love to share with young women, that the strong woman they see now comes from many years of development. Many want to play women without first being young ladies. A word to the black man, stay true to your purpose--so many think more of themselves than they ought to. The speaker in the video may need to expand his horizons to meet the 90% of black women who have not bought the lie!!!!
I pray that God allows all women black or white to be strong and courageous in HIM!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AugKnRQx48&feature=player_embedded
Hi My Friend John: As I define myself as a strong black woman, I hold my head up high knowing that I never bought the lie. I have to say that most of what was depicted by the "white" speaker in this video is not true. The strong black women like myself are never seen or interviewed. As an educated black woman, I recognized quickly that if you ... Read Moremess up by picking the wrong "black man", you should take corrective action and leave him. Strong means that a woman should know that she does not have to depend on any man for her self-worth. Strong means that it is okay to love your man and expect him to do the same. Strong means that you recognize that if any job stresses you to death then you need to find another one. Don't stay and complain--that's weak. Strong means that you train up your children correctly and not wait for a judge to do it for you. Strong means that you don't let other people, black or white tell you what is important to you. No Oprah or Dr. Phil knows what is best for you. Strong is staying in the game especially when things get tough. The best tea comes from hot water. I love to share with young women, that the strong woman they see now comes from many years of development. Many want to play women without first being young ladies. A word to the black man, stay true to your purpose--so many think more of themselves than they ought to. The speaker in the video may need to expand his horizons to meet the 90% of black women who have not bought the lie!!!!
I pray that God allows all women black or white to be strong and courageous in HIM!!!!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
TRADITION OF MEN
A Word on Tradition
Sometimes, these blogs will be light and easy to read. Today, I address a serious "issue." Be blessed as you read.
Matthew 15:1-9
1 Then there come to Jesus from Jerusalem Pharisees and scribes, saying, 2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. 3 And he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition? 4 For God said, Honor thy father and thy mother: and, He that speaks evil of father or mother, let him die the death. 5 But ye say, whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, That wherewith thou mightest have been profited by me is given to God; 6 he shall not honor his father. And ye have made void the word of God because of your tradition. 7 Ye hypocrites, well did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying, 8 This people honoreth me with their lips; But their heart is far from me. 9 But in vain do they worship me, Teaching as their doctrines the precepts of men.
This dialogue found in the book of Matthew between Jesus, the Pharisees and scribes point to a modern day problem in the church. There are many who have put traditions on a higher authority than Scripture. After being questioned as to why His disciples were not following tradition, Jesus responded to the Pharisees with an example of how they had broken the commandment of God regarding honoring a persons mother and father. He called them hypocrites!!!
It is very hypocritical for the Body of Christ (the church) to continue to practice traditions and actually hold them as "sacred." Two examples are Easter egg-hunts and Halloween/Harvest Festivals. Dare I say that I do not participate in either and I immediately am labeled "holier than though." First, let us examine the tradition of Easter egg-hunts and its origin.
Easter was originally a pagan holiday to celebrate spring. The council of Nicea in 325 adopted it as their own celebration and changed the time of the celebration to coincide with the Resurrection of Christ. Eggs meant the beginning of new life and In Christ there is indeed new life. While we can see how the early church tied a pagan holiday to the resurrection of Christ that does not make Easter or the celebration of bunnies and eggs correct. The Resurrection of Christ is a fundamental in the Christian faith. If Christ did not rise from the dead, then our faith is dead. I Cor. 15 13-14: "But if there is no resurrection of the dead, not even Christ has been raised; 14 and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain."
How could something so important be overshadowed by Easter egg hunts and bunny rabbits? How can I say that it is right to have these events at a time when we should be celebrating the Redemption of mankind that came through Christ dying on the cross. The world will always want us to lessen the seriousness of the Cross. It is worse when the "church" continues traditions when we should know better.
The second holiday celebrated in the church is Harvest Festivals/Halloween. Some churches actually have this celebration on the same date as Halloween to give children an alternative. Again, do we realize that no matter what we call it, in the child's mind, we "are" celebrating Halloween. Let's discuss origin again. It is an ancient Celtic holiday that marked the time crops were dying and the Celts believed that it was a time when the "worlds between living and the dead was blurred"(Source- History of). They believed that Spirits returned to earth. To appease these Spirits, they built Bonfires and offered sacrifices of crop and animals. They wore costumes made of animal skins and heads. They then took some of the ashes from the fire to relight their homes which they believed offered them protection and good luck for the coming crop season. By A.D. 30 the Romans who conquered the Celtics began to celebrate it as a day to remember the DEAD. Sometime after, Pope Boniface IV chose to celebrate November 1, the day after October 31st, to honor saints and martyrs and called it ALL Saints day. In A.D. 1000 the church added November 2, as a holiday and called it ALL souls day--a day to honor the dead. They started a service called Hallomas... How can we take holidays that have nothing to do with Christ or the Bible and bring it into the church and call it sacred? It is what it is, TRADITIONS of MEN, NOT GOD. Ungodly, Tradition, celebrated without regard to biblical truth.
Let's discuss CHRISTmas. It is indeed the most celebrated holiday in which the world and the world has chosen to celebrate it with the "church" for many reasons. The amount of money that exchanges hands in the retail industry in the name of CHRISTmas is utterly ridiculous. The sale of CHRISTmas items now begin as early as August. Never mind that many politically correct folks have started trying to ban the word CHRISTmas in exchange for calling the whole season "THE HOLIDAYS." While most of us know what the TRUE meaning of the celebration is, we don't want to ruin it for others. We say, "it's okay if they believe in Santa Claus," or "what's wrong with children having an imagination?" To these statements, I refer back to the Word of God for a defense. Matt 15:6: "You have made the word of God void with your traditions." CHRISTmas should be celebrated everyday, because without His birth and Resurrection there would be no CHRISTIANITY, but the way in which it is celebrated today is very far from being a celebration about CHRIST!!!!
Finally, as you consider what it would be like to continue to Hold Fast to traditions, know that the Word of God says, "See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ." Col. 2:8
Be Blessed.
Sometimes, these blogs will be light and easy to read. Today, I address a serious "issue." Be blessed as you read.
Matthew 15:1-9
1 Then there come to Jesus from Jerusalem Pharisees and scribes, saying, 2 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. 3 And he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition? 4 For God said, Honor thy father and thy mother: and, He that speaks evil of father or mother, let him die the death. 5 But ye say, whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, That wherewith thou mightest have been profited by me is given to God; 6 he shall not honor his father. And ye have made void the word of God because of your tradition. 7 Ye hypocrites, well did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying, 8 This people honoreth me with their lips; But their heart is far from me. 9 But in vain do they worship me, Teaching as their doctrines the precepts of men.
This dialogue found in the book of Matthew between Jesus, the Pharisees and scribes point to a modern day problem in the church. There are many who have put traditions on a higher authority than Scripture. After being questioned as to why His disciples were not following tradition, Jesus responded to the Pharisees with an example of how they had broken the commandment of God regarding honoring a persons mother and father. He called them hypocrites!!!
It is very hypocritical for the Body of Christ (the church) to continue to practice traditions and actually hold them as "sacred." Two examples are Easter egg-hunts and Halloween/Harvest Festivals. Dare I say that I do not participate in either and I immediately am labeled "holier than though." First, let us examine the tradition of Easter egg-hunts and its origin.
Easter was originally a pagan holiday to celebrate spring. The council of Nicea in 325 adopted it as their own celebration and changed the time of the celebration to coincide with the Resurrection of Christ. Eggs meant the beginning of new life and In Christ there is indeed new life. While we can see how the early church tied a pagan holiday to the resurrection of Christ that does not make Easter or the celebration of bunnies and eggs correct. The Resurrection of Christ is a fundamental in the Christian faith. If Christ did not rise from the dead, then our faith is dead. I Cor. 15 13-14: "But if there is no resurrection of the dead, not even Christ has been raised; 14 and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain."
How could something so important be overshadowed by Easter egg hunts and bunny rabbits? How can I say that it is right to have these events at a time when we should be celebrating the Redemption of mankind that came through Christ dying on the cross. The world will always want us to lessen the seriousness of the Cross. It is worse when the "church" continues traditions when we should know better.
The second holiday celebrated in the church is Harvest Festivals/Halloween. Some churches actually have this celebration on the same date as Halloween to give children an alternative. Again, do we realize that no matter what we call it, in the child's mind, we "are" celebrating Halloween. Let's discuss origin again. It is an ancient Celtic holiday that marked the time crops were dying and the Celts believed that it was a time when the "worlds between living and the dead was blurred"(Source- History of). They believed that Spirits returned to earth. To appease these Spirits, they built Bonfires and offered sacrifices of crop and animals. They wore costumes made of animal skins and heads. They then took some of the ashes from the fire to relight their homes which they believed offered them protection and good luck for the coming crop season. By A.D. 30 the Romans who conquered the Celtics began to celebrate it as a day to remember the DEAD. Sometime after, Pope Boniface IV chose to celebrate November 1, the day after October 31st, to honor saints and martyrs and called it ALL Saints day. In A.D. 1000 the church added November 2, as a holiday and called it ALL souls day--a day to honor the dead. They started a service called Hallomas... How can we take holidays that have nothing to do with Christ or the Bible and bring it into the church and call it sacred? It is what it is, TRADITIONS of MEN, NOT GOD. Ungodly, Tradition, celebrated without regard to biblical truth.
Let's discuss CHRISTmas. It is indeed the most celebrated holiday in which the world and the world has chosen to celebrate it with the "church" for many reasons. The amount of money that exchanges hands in the retail industry in the name of CHRISTmas is utterly ridiculous. The sale of CHRISTmas items now begin as early as August. Never mind that many politically correct folks have started trying to ban the word CHRISTmas in exchange for calling the whole season "THE HOLIDAYS." While most of us know what the TRUE meaning of the celebration is, we don't want to ruin it for others. We say, "it's okay if they believe in Santa Claus," or "what's wrong with children having an imagination?" To these statements, I refer back to the Word of God for a defense. Matt 15:6: "You have made the word of God void with your traditions." CHRISTmas should be celebrated everyday, because without His birth and Resurrection there would be no CHRISTIANITY, but the way in which it is celebrated today is very far from being a celebration about CHRIST!!!!
Finally, as you consider what it would be like to continue to Hold Fast to traditions, know that the Word of God says, "See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ." Col. 2:8
Be Blessed.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Hello
Isn't it marvelous to just say hello to a brother or sister? Yes it is. It is necessary to remember that life is too short to forget to just say hello to others. Modern technology has now made it possible for us to use many avenues of communication, so it is important to use them to just say hello. I have struggled for years to understand why so many people use the excuse of being "busy" as a reason why they don't call others. I use the word struggle because, these same people find money and time at a moments notice to attend the funeral of a loved one or friend. It would make so much more sense to show love while a person is alive, than waiting until they can never hear your voice again. So I say "hello" to you today and I hope that this inspires you to call someone today.....
Be encouraged!!
Be encouraged!!
Friday, August 28, 2009
What Am I Called To Do?
As I begin today, my Spirit is heavy with how to approach this subject. There are many Christians who may be offended by this blog. Here is why. There are preachers today who are preaching false doctrine. Instead of preaching the literal interpretation of the Bible, they continue to align themselves with false doctrines. The danger with this is that many "buy" what they are "selling." They love what they hear from these false prophets are teaching and they do not want to hear anybody speak against "God's annointed." Who said that they were "God's Annointed?" Jesus taught that there would be false prophets. (Matt 7:14, Matt 24:24, Mk 13:22; 2Peter 2: 1)
The Bible tells us that we are to test every Spirit. 1 John 4:1 "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God;" The only way to effectively test a Spirit is by knowing the person of the Holy Spirit and studying the Word of God. Because a "person" preaches in a large church or basketball sized stadium and has a large "following" does not mean that they are preaching the Gospel!! We should follow those who follow Christ and His teachings, not motivational speakers of false doctrine.
Read Mark 13 in its entirety and you will gain knowlege regarding what Jesus has to say about what to expect in the last days. In verses 21-23, He stated "And then if anyone says to you, 'Behold, here is the Christ'; or, 'Behold, He is there'; do not believe him; 22 for false Christs and false prophets will arise, and will show signs and wonders, in order to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23 "But take heed; behold, I have told you everything in advance." Christ knew that even well meaning Christians could be led astray by false prophets.
You might be wondering where am I going with all of this, so I will tell you. When I sensed God's calling to preach the Gospel, I knew that if I was going to stand before people and proclaim the Word, that I needed to have a better understanding of the Bible. Isn't interesting that preaching is the only "profession" where many believe that no training is necessary. I then asked several Ministers for advice as to what college I should attend. Several of them strongly advised me not to go schools that did not teach a literal interpretation of the Bible, eventhough some of them had attended and graduated from these colleges. Their reasoning for this advice was very interesting. Some of these Seminaries teach based on their religious affiliation (ex. Pentecostal, Presbytarian, Baptist etc.) which in some instances, are in contradiction to the literal meaning of the Scriptures. Luther Rice Seminary and University, that I chose to attend is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, but their Theology-(Study of God) is based on a literal interpretation of the Bible, which at times did conflicted with some long-held Southern Baptist "doctrines/traditions". I will expound on these differences in another post. As a result of going to college I learned that prior to going, that I really had no clue about the real meaning of the Bible. I had never heard any preacher explain the everlasting covenant that God made with Israel. I learned that it does not create a problem for a Christian to understand God's plan for Israel, His covenant that came through Jesus Christ dying on the cross and His Promise for all of mankind. I gained knowledge in understanding the History of God which helps me to appreciate the present and His future plans. I also learned that as long as I live, I will never stop learning more about the Bible and The God of the Bible!!!
I can identify with the following Scripture. I knew the Lord, before going to Seminary, but I needed to know the Scriptures more accurately in order to preach it correctly.
Acts 18:24-28: 24 "Now a Jew named Apollos, an Alexandrian by birth, an eloquent man, came to Ephesus; and he was mighty in the Scriptures. 25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he was speaking and teaching accurately the things concerning Jesus, being acquainted only with the baptism of John; 26 and he began to speak out boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. 27 And when he wanted to go across to Achaia, the brethren encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him; and when he had arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace, 28 for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, demonstrating by the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ."
Finally, I ask those of you who will read this to pray with me as I do what I am called to do. As you continue to read my blog please know that I want to help you too, to understand the Scriptures more accurately. Allow yourselves to be like the Bereans in Acts 18, as they searched the Scriptures to see if what they were hearing was lining up with Scripture--then they believed. It is after all what we are supposed to do.
Be Blessed.
The Bible tells us that we are to test every Spirit. 1 John 4:1 "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God;" The only way to effectively test a Spirit is by knowing the person of the Holy Spirit and studying the Word of God. Because a "person" preaches in a large church or basketball sized stadium and has a large "following" does not mean that they are preaching the Gospel!! We should follow those who follow Christ and His teachings, not motivational speakers of false doctrine.
Read Mark 13 in its entirety and you will gain knowlege regarding what Jesus has to say about what to expect in the last days. In verses 21-23, He stated "And then if anyone says to you, 'Behold, here is the Christ'; or, 'Behold, He is there'; do not believe him; 22 for false Christs and false prophets will arise, and will show signs and wonders, in order to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23 "But take heed; behold, I have told you everything in advance." Christ knew that even well meaning Christians could be led astray by false prophets.
You might be wondering where am I going with all of this, so I will tell you. When I sensed God's calling to preach the Gospel, I knew that if I was going to stand before people and proclaim the Word, that I needed to have a better understanding of the Bible. Isn't interesting that preaching is the only "profession" where many believe that no training is necessary. I then asked several Ministers for advice as to what college I should attend. Several of them strongly advised me not to go schools that did not teach a literal interpretation of the Bible, eventhough some of them had attended and graduated from these colleges. Their reasoning for this advice was very interesting. Some of these Seminaries teach based on their religious affiliation (ex. Pentecostal, Presbytarian, Baptist etc.) which in some instances, are in contradiction to the literal meaning of the Scriptures. Luther Rice Seminary and University, that I chose to attend is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, but their Theology-(Study of God) is based on a literal interpretation of the Bible, which at times did conflicted with some long-held Southern Baptist "doctrines/traditions". I will expound on these differences in another post. As a result of going to college I learned that prior to going, that I really had no clue about the real meaning of the Bible. I had never heard any preacher explain the everlasting covenant that God made with Israel. I learned that it does not create a problem for a Christian to understand God's plan for Israel, His covenant that came through Jesus Christ dying on the cross and His Promise for all of mankind. I gained knowledge in understanding the History of God which helps me to appreciate the present and His future plans. I also learned that as long as I live, I will never stop learning more about the Bible and The God of the Bible!!!
I can identify with the following Scripture. I knew the Lord, before going to Seminary, but I needed to know the Scriptures more accurately in order to preach it correctly.
Acts 18:24-28: 24 "Now a Jew named Apollos, an Alexandrian by birth, an eloquent man, came to Ephesus; and he was mighty in the Scriptures. 25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he was speaking and teaching accurately the things concerning Jesus, being acquainted only with the baptism of John; 26 and he began to speak out boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. 27 And when he wanted to go across to Achaia, the brethren encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him; and when he had arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace, 28 for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, demonstrating by the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ."
Finally, I ask those of you who will read this to pray with me as I do what I am called to do. As you continue to read my blog please know that I want to help you too, to understand the Scriptures more accurately. Allow yourselves to be like the Bereans in Acts 18, as they searched the Scriptures to see if what they were hearing was lining up with Scripture--then they believed. It is after all what we are supposed to do.
Be Blessed.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Are you disobeying God?
In the following Scripture we will see the people of Israel, God's people being disobedient. Are we anything like these people? I pray not, yet we have these words recorded so that we may know that there are consequences for not following the Word of God. They heard the word of the Lord and debated that after they begun to follow God, things were harder for them, but when they worshipped the Queen of Heaven they were better off. Is it not true that many believe that Christianity is hard and that they were better when then followed Satan? What a ridiculous assertion.!! Christians should look at the people of Israel and know that when we follow God's Word, we will suffer persecution, but that's only half of the story. We will also receive the blessings of God. So while it may seem that life got more difficult in Christ, think of what He did for us on the cross and thank Him. Would you rather be disobedient to God and suffer His wrath? I think not. Yet, many people today continue to thumb their noses at the Bible and defiantly conclude not to obey His Word. May God help them. (Please read concluding statement)
Jeremiah 44: 11-30-11 "Therefore thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, 'Behold, I am going to set My face against you for woe , even to cut off all Judah. 12 'And I will take away the remnant of Judah who have set their mind on entering the land of Egypt to reside there, and they will all meet their end in the land of Egypt; they will fall by the sword and meet their end by famine. Both small and great will die by the sword and famine; and they will become a curse, an object of horror, an imprecation and a reproach. 13 'And I will punish those who live in the land of Egypt, as I have punished Jerusalem, with the sword, with famine and with pestilence. 14 'So there will be no refugees or survivors for the remnant of Judah who have entered the land of Egypt to reside there and then to return to the land of Judah, to which they are longing to return and live; for none will return except a few refugees.' " 15 Then all the men who were aware that their wives were burning sacrifices to other gods, along with all the women who were standing by, as a large assembly, including all the people who were living in Pathros in the land of Egypt, responded to Jeremiah, saying, 16 "As for the message that you have spoken to us in the name of the LORD, we are not going to listen to you! 17 "But rather we will certainly carry out every word that has proceeded from our mouths, by burning sacrifices to the queen of heaven and pouring out drink offerings to her, just as we ourselves, our forefathers, our kings and our princes did in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem; for then we had plenty of food and were well off and saw no misfortune . 18 "But since we stopped burning sacrifices to the queen of heaven and pouring out drink offerings to her, we have lacked everything and have met our end by the sword and by famine." 19 "And," said the women, "when we were burning sacrifices to the queen of heaven and were pouring out drink offerings to her, was it without our husbands that we made for her sacrificial cakes in her image and poured out drink offerings to her?"
20 Then Jeremiah said to all the people, to the men and women—even to all the people who were giving him such an answer—saying, 21 "As for the smoking sacrifices that you burned in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem, you and your forefathers, your kings and your princes, and the people of the land, did not the LORD remember them and did not all this come into His mind ? 22 "So the LORD was no longer able to endure it, because of the evil of your deeds, because of the abominations which you have committed; thus your land has become a ruin, an object of horror and a curse, without an inhabitant, as it is this day. 23 "Because you have burned sacrifices and have sinned against the LORD and not obeyed the voice of the LORD or walked in His law, His statutes or His testimonies, therefore this calamity has befallen you, as it has this day." 24 Then Jeremiah said to all the people, including all the women, "Hear the word of the LORD, all Judah who are in the land of Egypt, 25 thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, as follows: 'As for you and your wives, you have spoken with your mouths and fulfilled it with your hands, saying, "We will certainly perform our vows that we have vowed, to burn sacrifices to the queen of heaven and pour out drink offerings to her." Go ahead and confirm your vows, and certainly perform your vows!' 26 "Nevertheless hear the word of the LORD, all Judah who are living in the land of Egypt, 'Behold, I have sworn by My great name,' says the LORD, 'never shall My name be invoked again by the mouth of any man of Judah in all the land of Egypt, saying, "As the Lord GOD lives." 27 'Behold, I am watching over them for harm and not for good, and all the men of Judah who are in the land of Egypt will meet their end by the sword and by famine until they are completely gone. 28 'Those who escape the sword will return out of the land of Egypt to the land of Judah few in number. Then all the remnant of Judah who have gone to the land of Egypt to reside there will know whose word will stand, Mine or theirs. 29 'This will be the sign to you,' declares the LORD, 'that I am going to punish you in this place, so that you may know that My words will surely stand against you for harm.' 30 "Thus says the LORD, 'Behold, I am going to give over Pharaoh Hophra king of Egypt to the hand of his enemies, to the hand of those who seek his life, just as I gave over Zedekiah king of Judah to the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, who was his enemy and was seeking his life.' "
These examples should encourage us to persevere no matter what. God is truly merciful, but He is also just. He does not reward disobedience, rather He will punish those who are not obedient to His Word. What would we be without the Word of God??? We would be lost. But, we do have His Word recorded for us in the Holy Bible to read, follow and to learn from so that we may be encouraged that all hope is not lost. We gave us His Word to read each day. We must never debate whether or not it is good to follow God's Word. His Word is good because He is good. The best medicines tastes very bad, but the results from taking them are good. Be encouraged today to Love Him enough to follow His Word so that you too may experience the good results, His Peace and His Joy that is everlasting.
Jeremiah 44: 11-30-11 "Therefore thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, 'Behold, I am going to set My face against you for woe , even to cut off all Judah. 12 'And I will take away the remnant of Judah who have set their mind on entering the land of Egypt to reside there, and they will all meet their end in the land of Egypt; they will fall by the sword and meet their end by famine. Both small and great will die by the sword and famine; and they will become a curse, an object of horror, an imprecation and a reproach. 13 'And I will punish those who live in the land of Egypt, as I have punished Jerusalem, with the sword, with famine and with pestilence. 14 'So there will be no refugees or survivors for the remnant of Judah who have entered the land of Egypt to reside there and then to return to the land of Judah, to which they are longing to return and live; for none will return except a few refugees.' " 15 Then all the men who were aware that their wives were burning sacrifices to other gods, along with all the women who were standing by, as a large assembly, including all the people who were living in Pathros in the land of Egypt, responded to Jeremiah, saying, 16 "As for the message that you have spoken to us in the name of the LORD, we are not going to listen to you! 17 "But rather we will certainly carry out every word that has proceeded from our mouths, by burning sacrifices to the queen of heaven and pouring out drink offerings to her, just as we ourselves, our forefathers, our kings and our princes did in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem; for then we had plenty of food and were well off and saw no misfortune . 18 "But since we stopped burning sacrifices to the queen of heaven and pouring out drink offerings to her, we have lacked everything and have met our end by the sword and by famine." 19 "And," said the women, "when we were burning sacrifices to the queen of heaven and were pouring out drink offerings to her, was it without our husbands that we made for her sacrificial cakes in her image and poured out drink offerings to her?"
20 Then Jeremiah said to all the people, to the men and women—even to all the people who were giving him such an answer—saying, 21 "As for the smoking sacrifices that you burned in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem, you and your forefathers, your kings and your princes, and the people of the land, did not the LORD remember them and did not all this come into His mind ? 22 "So the LORD was no longer able to endure it, because of the evil of your deeds, because of the abominations which you have committed; thus your land has become a ruin, an object of horror and a curse, without an inhabitant, as it is this day. 23 "Because you have burned sacrifices and have sinned against the LORD and not obeyed the voice of the LORD or walked in His law, His statutes or His testimonies, therefore this calamity has befallen you, as it has this day." 24 Then Jeremiah said to all the people, including all the women, "Hear the word of the LORD, all Judah who are in the land of Egypt, 25 thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, as follows: 'As for you and your wives, you have spoken with your mouths and fulfilled it with your hands, saying, "We will certainly perform our vows that we have vowed, to burn sacrifices to the queen of heaven and pour out drink offerings to her." Go ahead and confirm your vows, and certainly perform your vows!' 26 "Nevertheless hear the word of the LORD, all Judah who are living in the land of Egypt, 'Behold, I have sworn by My great name,' says the LORD, 'never shall My name be invoked again by the mouth of any man of Judah in all the land of Egypt, saying, "As the Lord GOD lives." 27 'Behold, I am watching over them for harm and not for good, and all the men of Judah who are in the land of Egypt will meet their end by the sword and by famine until they are completely gone. 28 'Those who escape the sword will return out of the land of Egypt to the land of Judah few in number. Then all the remnant of Judah who have gone to the land of Egypt to reside there will know whose word will stand, Mine or theirs. 29 'This will be the sign to you,' declares the LORD, 'that I am going to punish you in this place, so that you may know that My words will surely stand against you for harm.' 30 "Thus says the LORD, 'Behold, I am going to give over Pharaoh Hophra king of Egypt to the hand of his enemies, to the hand of those who seek his life, just as I gave over Zedekiah king of Judah to the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, who was his enemy and was seeking his life.' "
These examples should encourage us to persevere no matter what. God is truly merciful, but He is also just. He does not reward disobedience, rather He will punish those who are not obedient to His Word. What would we be without the Word of God??? We would be lost. But, we do have His Word recorded for us in the Holy Bible to read, follow and to learn from so that we may be encouraged that all hope is not lost. We gave us His Word to read each day. We must never debate whether or not it is good to follow God's Word. His Word is good because He is good. The best medicines tastes very bad, but the results from taking them are good. Be encouraged today to Love Him enough to follow His Word so that you too may experience the good results, His Peace and His Joy that is everlasting.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The Church has Left the Building
I began this post on August 12, 2009, and immediately was distracted. That day God had allowed me to experience a divine appointment to share Christ. I truly felt that I was engaging once again in evangelizing the lost. For this reason, I entitled this post, The "Church has left the building." I found myself understanding more and more that I do more ministry outside of the "church building." So many Christians leave the church building every week and turn off their Christianity. I do not understand how it is possible to misunderstand that Christianity is not just religion but a relationship with Christ, which should lead us to be Christ followers. The Holy Spirit is deposited in each of us at Salvation. We then become a members of the universal church, the Body of Christ. The Church has left the building, means that you and I who call ourselves Christians should be mindful that we take His name with us wherever we go. We were called to go out into the world and be witnesses of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. (Matt 28:19-20) When we say that we are Christians, we must be ready and willing to testify of His goodness wherever we go, everyday. We cannot continue to be Sunday "saints" and weekday "aints." We must remember to be the church that has left the building each day. Ministry and giving glory to God is not just a church thing, it is a lifestyle. It must be something all of us DO. God deserves All the glory. How DO we glorify Him when we do not love our brothers and sisters? 1 John 4:19-21 states, 19 We love, because He first loved us. 20 If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen. 21 And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also. Your brothers and sisters, are not only those in the church building. They are those who Christ died for, ALL people. Although each person is responsible for his own soul, we must always be cognizant that someone is watching our walk and hearing our talk. What are they seeing? What are they hearing us say? Are we aware that our actions are important? We must never be the stumbling block to a brother or sister that keeps them from following Christ. This includes not judging them. The Word of God and the Holy Spirit are the tools, God uses to convict all mankind of sin. He needs us to speak His Word in love, not condemnation. Romans 14:12-13: So then each one of us will give an account of himself to God. 13 Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this—not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way. We must see all people as people that God sent His Son to die for or we would never tell them the good news of the Gospel.
Be encouraged today, to BE the "Church" that has left the building.
Be encouraged today, to BE the "Church" that has left the building.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The Two Resurrections - John 5:24-29
Today's blog deals with a very serious issue. According to statistics compiled by Barna.org, many people who call themselves Christians do not believe that anyone will go to hell. This is troubling to me and as such I will present what the Bible has to say about this. (This by no mean are the only Scriptures that deal with eternal destination.)
John 5:24-29 "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. 25 Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live. 26 For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself, 27 and has given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of Man. 28 Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice 29 and come forth--those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation."
In the text of Scripture, Jesus is speaking. He stated that who ever hears His word and believes will have everlasting life. (v.24) The Barna Group have surmised that a Christian who believes that everyone is going to Heaven is the same as saying that, "God is somehow going to change His requirement for eternal life and let everyone in."
Jesus then stated that the hour will come when the dead (spiritually dead) will hear the voice of the Son of God and for those who hear - they will live. (v. 25) It is important to stress that this a choice for all of mankind--there is a choice made to believe or not to believe in Christ. While it is every Christian's responsibility to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, how can we share what we do not know? We must be able to first tell others that Jesus died that ALL who believe in Him may not perish!!! (John 3:16) It is also the responsibility of every Christian to speak the truth of the Bible and to give a defense for the "hope that lies within us." (I Peter 3:13-18) The Bible is our only authority when it comes to these matters. We must never lean on our own understanding. (Prov. 3:4-6)
Jesus then re-stated that in Him was eternal life. He has the authority to execute judgement, which was given to Him by God as the Son of man.
Jesus alone will execute judgement. (v. 27) It is not possible for a preacher, bishop, minister, Pope or anyone to know for sure that anybody is going or has gone to heaven or hell. Please understand that I am trying to make clear that although we may share Christ with someone, witness them receive Christ, we still may not know for sure that they are saved. There have been many persons who have stated that they just "went through the motion" to get the person to leave them alone. This is truly sad but unfortunately it is very true. Therefore, the eternal destination of each of us will be determined by Jesus Himself. I say this because Jesus said it, yet we allow others to tell us differently! Only Christ has The Authority to judge. While understanding that Christ will be the judge, we must still do our part. He has commanded of us in Matthew 28:11-20, 18 "And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always , even to the end of the age."
Jesus then stated "do not marvel at this."(v. 28) He did not teach, nor should we think that this would be a delightful event when Jesus has to judge. After all, He wants us to believe in Him and not perish. Finally, Jesus stated that the hour is coming when all these things will come to pass and He will do as He must. He will call everyone "in the graves" to come forth and those "who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment." (v. 29) Christ drew a clear contrast of two resurrections. How can I say anything different. Can I or you say that everyone is going to Heaven when Christ does not????!!!!!
There is a choice that we all have to make in this Life. We cannot believe that God will change His plans for eternal life, to suit us. We must believe and teach what the Bible says. I pray that you choose LIFE this DAY....Choose Christ and believe on Him with your heart...and He shall give you ETERNAL life.
To God be the Glory!!!!
John 5:24-29 "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. 25 Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live. 26 For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself, 27 and has given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of Man. 28 Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice 29 and come forth--those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation."
In the text of Scripture, Jesus is speaking. He stated that who ever hears His word and believes will have everlasting life. (v.24) The Barna Group have surmised that a Christian who believes that everyone is going to Heaven is the same as saying that, "God is somehow going to change His requirement for eternal life and let everyone in."
Jesus then stated that the hour will come when the dead (spiritually dead) will hear the voice of the Son of God and for those who hear - they will live. (v. 25) It is important to stress that this a choice for all of mankind--there is a choice made to believe or not to believe in Christ. While it is every Christian's responsibility to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, how can we share what we do not know? We must be able to first tell others that Jesus died that ALL who believe in Him may not perish!!! (John 3:16) It is also the responsibility of every Christian to speak the truth of the Bible and to give a defense for the "hope that lies within us." (I Peter 3:13-18) The Bible is our only authority when it comes to these matters. We must never lean on our own understanding. (Prov. 3:4-6)
Jesus then re-stated that in Him was eternal life. He has the authority to execute judgement, which was given to Him by God as the Son of man.
Jesus alone will execute judgement. (v. 27) It is not possible for a preacher, bishop, minister, Pope or anyone to know for sure that anybody is going or has gone to heaven or hell. Please understand that I am trying to make clear that although we may share Christ with someone, witness them receive Christ, we still may not know for sure that they are saved. There have been many persons who have stated that they just "went through the motion" to get the person to leave them alone. This is truly sad but unfortunately it is very true. Therefore, the eternal destination of each of us will be determined by Jesus Himself. I say this because Jesus said it, yet we allow others to tell us differently! Only Christ has The Authority to judge. While understanding that Christ will be the judge, we must still do our part. He has commanded of us in Matthew 28:11-20, 18 "And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always , even to the end of the age."
Jesus then stated "do not marvel at this."(v. 28) He did not teach, nor should we think that this would be a delightful event when Jesus has to judge. After all, He wants us to believe in Him and not perish. Finally, Jesus stated that the hour is coming when all these things will come to pass and He will do as He must. He will call everyone "in the graves" to come forth and those "who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment." (v. 29) Christ drew a clear contrast of two resurrections. How can I say anything different. Can I or you say that everyone is going to Heaven when Christ does not????!!!!!
There is a choice that we all have to make in this Life. We cannot believe that God will change His plans for eternal life, to suit us. We must believe and teach what the Bible says. I pray that you choose LIFE this DAY....Choose Christ and believe on Him with your heart...and He shall give you ETERNAL life.
To God be the Glory!!!!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Peace, Love and Joy
There is only one constant in all of our lives and that is God. In God, there is peace, love and joy. Trying to find these things in anything or anyone is a complete waste of time. We all have experienced the peace that only God can give us, but we rarely thank Him for it. We know of the love of God because He sent His Son to die on the cross for us. Yet we do not meditate enough on why would He love us that much to send His Son to do this for us. We have experienced the joy that only God can give us. We can never experience true joy outside of knowing Jesus Christ as our redeemer. His joy never fails, His love never fails, His peace is enduring. Trust Him today or tell someone about His Peace, His Love and His Joy!!!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Be Encouraged to have Courage
As I prepare to facilitate Bible Study today, I am reminded of a dream that I had as a little girl.
I once wanted to become a pilot. I even stated this publicly on stage the night I became queen. Now as is watch CNN news this morning featuring a news story on Kimberly Anyadike- A native Compton, California who at age 15 in the youngest "black" female to fly cross country, I am reminded of several things. As children we are fearless. Fear comes from adults and situations that scare us. The Bible teaches that fear is not from God. (I Tim 1:7) At some point (after witnessing a few plane crashes), I developed a fear of flying and there went my desire to become a pilot. So now I tell others that if God wanted me to fly he would have given me wings.
In complete contrast to flying, I now know that I am doing what God has called me to do, because I am fearless. Proclaiming the Word of God energizes me and it gives me joy to see others come to know Christ. I love hearing, reading, teaching, and sharing the Word of God. I thank God for what He has allowed me to do thus far and pray that He gives me more time. But this one thing I am sure of---when it is time for me to go--He will find me busy.
Be encouraged to have courage to do what He has called you to do. Step out in faith and allow Him to take all the glory that is due His name. If you receive praise----Praise God!!!!!
I once wanted to become a pilot. I even stated this publicly on stage the night I became queen. Now as is watch CNN news this morning featuring a news story on Kimberly Anyadike- A native Compton, California who at age 15 in the youngest "black" female to fly cross country, I am reminded of several things. As children we are fearless. Fear comes from adults and situations that scare us. The Bible teaches that fear is not from God. (I Tim 1:7) At some point (after witnessing a few plane crashes), I developed a fear of flying and there went my desire to become a pilot. So now I tell others that if God wanted me to fly he would have given me wings.
In complete contrast to flying, I now know that I am doing what God has called me to do, because I am fearless. Proclaiming the Word of God energizes me and it gives me joy to see others come to know Christ. I love hearing, reading, teaching, and sharing the Word of God. I thank God for what He has allowed me to do thus far and pray that He gives me more time. But this one thing I am sure of---when it is time for me to go--He will find me busy.
Be encouraged to have courage to do what He has called you to do. Step out in faith and allow Him to take all the glory that is due His name. If you receive praise----Praise God!!!!!
Monday, July 13, 2009
God- Blessed day
Now that we have gotten a little pass all the Michael Jackson drama, I pray that all of you enjoy each day that God gives us.
I have started to breathe a little deeper, laugh a little harder and hug my hubby and daughter harder. Can we stop sweating the small stuff and think of all the kinds things we would say after a person leaves us????? I have already told my husband that if he goes before I do---I have said everything I needed to say. I will have no regrets. Of course I will keep his body in the house for months......that was a joke.
Anyway, I am busy preparing to facilitate a Bible Study on Stephen----Acts 6&7. He was a courageous fellow. He reminds me a little of myself. I am fearless. I had a man try to give me his Christian literature yesterday. I was in a hurry so I told him "no thank you. " He responded: "Many are called few are chosen"-(in a derogatory way). I kept going to my destination and then returned to ask him to repeat himself. He said it again. I asked him what did his statement mean. He said that I was rejecting Christ. This was the most disappointing experience I have ever witnessed. I told him that he should be very careful when he judges people. I told him that he was judging me and didn't know anything about me. I told him that people like him actually keep people from coming to Christ. I informed him that I was on my way to do something important and that is why I had politely told him "no thank you." I also informed him that he was a bad witness. He should never offend people who don't accept Christian literature. I informed him that I was a recent Seminary graduate who was extremely disappointed in his actions. He then told me that he didn't want to hear anything I had to say. I then told him that his talk wasn't lining up with his literature. A true disciple of Christ must live what he preaches. He was ugly and judgmental. I will always believe that if Christ is shared with anyone they have a right to refuse Him. We should never judge them. How disappointed was I to have experienced this on a Sunday afternoon. It was ridiculous.
Keep me in your prayers.
I have started to breathe a little deeper, laugh a little harder and hug my hubby and daughter harder. Can we stop sweating the small stuff and think of all the kinds things we would say after a person leaves us????? I have already told my husband that if he goes before I do---I have said everything I needed to say. I will have no regrets. Of course I will keep his body in the house for months......that was a joke.
Anyway, I am busy preparing to facilitate a Bible Study on Stephen----Acts 6&7. He was a courageous fellow. He reminds me a little of myself. I am fearless. I had a man try to give me his Christian literature yesterday. I was in a hurry so I told him "no thank you. " He responded: "Many are called few are chosen"-(in a derogatory way). I kept going to my destination and then returned to ask him to repeat himself. He said it again. I asked him what did his statement mean. He said that I was rejecting Christ. This was the most disappointing experience I have ever witnessed. I told him that he should be very careful when he judges people. I told him that he was judging me and didn't know anything about me. I told him that people like him actually keep people from coming to Christ. I informed him that I was on my way to do something important and that is why I had politely told him "no thank you." I also informed him that he was a bad witness. He should never offend people who don't accept Christian literature. I informed him that I was a recent Seminary graduate who was extremely disappointed in his actions. He then told me that he didn't want to hear anything I had to say. I then told him that his talk wasn't lining up with his literature. A true disciple of Christ must live what he preaches. He was ugly and judgmental. I will always believe that if Christ is shared with anyone they have a right to refuse Him. We should never judge them. How disappointed was I to have experienced this on a Sunday afternoon. It was ridiculous.
Keep me in your prayers.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Back home safe and sound
I am truly thankful to God for keeping my daughter and me safe during our recent road trip.
We visited Nashville, Tennessee and stayed with my childhood friend and her family. We then visited Louisville, Kentucky and attended the Alumni luncheon for Luther Rice University and Seminary. On last week we travelled to Connecticut via Maryland for one night each way. As we returned home, we were excited to experience great weather and safe travel.
I pray that all is well with you this week.
Blessings.
We visited Nashville, Tennessee and stayed with my childhood friend and her family. We then visited Louisville, Kentucky and attended the Alumni luncheon for Luther Rice University and Seminary. On last week we travelled to Connecticut via Maryland for one night each way. As we returned home, we were excited to experience great weather and safe travel.
I pray that all is well with you this week.
Blessings.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Through: No Test, No Testimony
I bring you greetings in the name of our Lord and Savoir Jesus Christ and from the state of Connecticut. As my daughter and I were driving to Connecticut, I began to reflect on the abilities of God. It took me a total of 17 hours total to drive first to Maryland then to Connecticut yet it only took God seconds to create the whole world. "Is there anything too hard for God???"
On last Sunday, God used me to preach a sermon entitled "Through: Where there is no test, There is no testimony." The scripture used was Psalm 23. Although this text of Scripture is familiar to most, God allowed me to expose three points of the Psalm. They were, Acknowledge who God is and His abilites -Ps:23:1-3, Affirmation of the evidence - Ps:23:4&5, Acceptance and Conviction to stay in God's will -Ps:23:6. David first acknowledged that God was his shepherd. He knew that God was his Jehovah-Jireh---his provider. He knew who God was and he fully trusted and understood that God was taking care of him. He acknowledged that God was ordering his footsteps. He knew that he would go through-----and that he would fear no evil as he went through----. In the end, he knew that God's goodness and mercy would be with him all the days of his life. What a testimony for us today. No test, No testimony. As we are tested, we must remember that just like Job, we do not know what God is trying to do in our lives. We must seek to understand God's purpose for the test and "lean not unto our own understanding".
Thank you for your prayers as I prepare to preach this Sunday from Luke 16:19-31. The sermon is entitled: "A testimony from Hell"
Blessings.
On last Sunday, God used me to preach a sermon entitled "Through: Where there is no test, There is no testimony." The scripture used was Psalm 23. Although this text of Scripture is familiar to most, God allowed me to expose three points of the Psalm. They were, Acknowledge who God is and His abilites -Ps:23:1-3, Affirmation of the evidence - Ps:23:4&5, Acceptance and Conviction to stay in God's will -Ps:23:6. David first acknowledged that God was his shepherd. He knew that God was his Jehovah-Jireh---his provider. He knew who God was and he fully trusted and understood that God was taking care of him. He acknowledged that God was ordering his footsteps. He knew that he would go through-----and that he would fear no evil as he went through----. In the end, he knew that God's goodness and mercy would be with him all the days of his life. What a testimony for us today. No test, No testimony. As we are tested, we must remember that just like Job, we do not know what God is trying to do in our lives. We must seek to understand God's purpose for the test and "lean not unto our own understanding".
Thank you for your prayers as I prepare to preach this Sunday from Luke 16:19-31. The sermon is entitled: "A testimony from Hell"
Blessings.
Friday, June 26, 2009
ANOTHER UNEXPECTED DEATH
Please see previous post. Michael Jackson is gone and although some may be sad for him, I am sad for his family because they are who remain. May God cause someone to see that this world is not our home. We will all one day face death.
I ask for your prayers as I prepare to preach the Gospel for the next three weeks. This does take considerable time and meditation so you may not hear too much from me. Please also pray for my Pastor as he is recovering from knee surgery and as such has asked both the Assistant Pastor to stand in for him.
Blessings,
Koralee
I ask for your prayers as I prepare to preach the Gospel for the next three weeks. This does take considerable time and meditation so you may not hear too much from me. Please also pray for my Pastor as he is recovering from knee surgery and as such has asked both the Assistant Pastor to stand in for him.
Blessings,
Koralee
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Celebrate with those who Celebrate!!!!
Romans 12:10-16 "10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; 13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion."
Continue celebrate with those who celebrate. There are those who going through and there are those who are doing quite well. Pray for those who are going through but please celebrate with those that are doing well. There is a season for everything under heaven.
Continue celebrate with those who celebrate. There are those who going through and there are those who are doing quite well. Pray for those who are going through but please celebrate with those that are doing well. There is a season for everything under heaven.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
The Tree of Life
A few months ago I blogged regarding Genesis and I would like to do a follow-up. Genesis 2:8&9 states: "The LORD God planted a garden toward the east, in Eden; and there He placed the man whom He had formed. 9 Out of the ground the LORD God caused to grow every tree that is pleasing to the sight and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil." Were you aware that the "tree of life" was also in the middle of the Garden with the "tree of knowledge of good and evil?"
I would like to bring to your attention what God told Adam specifically. Eve was not yet present. Gen 2:6 "The LORD God commanded the man, saying, "From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; 17 but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat , for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die." God never told Adam not to eat from the "tree of life." He could eat from that tree freely.
Chapter 3:1-3 "Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, "Indeed, has God said, 'You shall not eat from any tree of the garden'?" 2 The woman said to the serpent, "From the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat; 3 but from the fruit of the tree which is in the middle of the garden, God has said, 'You shall not eat from it or touch it, or you will die.' " God did not speak directly to Eve. He spoke to Adam and mentioned a specific tree that he was not to eat from--"the tree of the knowledge of good and evil." Did Adam give Eve incorrect information????? Interesting question isn't it???? Look at her response to the serpent.
4 The serpent said to the woman, "You surely will not die! 5 "For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." Do you realize that the Serpent pointed Eve away from the "tree of life." What else can you expect from Satan. His desire is to steer you away from what is good for you. He intentionally led Eve to eat from the "tree" that God commanded not to eat from. Satan was on His vocation as the Father of lies. He knows how to tell half truths and misquote God's Words and intentions. He is crafty. His job is to cause us to reconsider what God says.
6 When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. All of a sudden Eve begun to see the tree differently. JUST like sin today. Contrary to what you may believe, Sin always looks good. But it is against God's command. PLEASE note that Adam was with Eve and that he did not REMIND her of what God had told HIM, nor did he correct the lie of the Serpent. Do you stand by and allow a lie to be told about God's Word and say nothing?????
I know that most of you know the rest of the story well, but do you???? Look at what God says as to the reason why He put Adam and Eve out of the Garden.
Genesis 3:22 "Then the LORD God said, "Behold, the man has become like one of Us, knowing good and evil; and now, he might stretch out his hand, and take also from the tree of life, and eat, and live forever"— 23 therefore the LORD God sent him out from the garden of Eden, to cultivate the ground from which he was taken. 24 So He drove the man out; and at the east of the garden of Eden He stationed the cherubim and the flaming sword which turned every direction to guard the way to the tree of life.
Many of us concentrate on the lie of the Serpent regarding the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil," but let's look at the choice that Adam and Eve made. God had commanded Adam to eat from every tree including the "tree of life" but instead they chose to disobey God and listen to a lie. It was their choice. As a result of their disobedience God prevented them from eating from the "tree of life" which would have allowed them to live forever.
These are choices we make everyday. We make choices contrary to what God has commanded us. We ignore what the Word of God says and listen to the lies of the world. How can we read the about Adam and Eve and not learn that God is not pleased when we disobey Him? He does punish disobedience. I am thankful to report the He does not give us what we really deserve. He gives us GRACE and MERCY. He does however have the right to do whatever HE wants to do to us, because HE created US. We must understand that the Words in the Bible are not OLD or NEW it is GOOD!!!!!!! The Bible teaches that "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Tim 3:16-17)
The "tree of life" is never mentioned again until the book of Revelation. "Then he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, 2 in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations ." (Rev 22:1-2) Until there is a new heaven and a new earth (Rev. 21:1-2) the "tree of life" will not be accessable to man. If you know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savoir, you will see the "tree of life," if you don't, you will never see the TREE of LIFE. Trust Him today.
Blessings.
I would like to bring to your attention what God told Adam specifically. Eve was not yet present. Gen 2:6 "The LORD God commanded the man, saying, "From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; 17 but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat , for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die." God never told Adam not to eat from the "tree of life." He could eat from that tree freely.
Chapter 3:1-3 "Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, "Indeed, has God said, 'You shall not eat from any tree of the garden'?" 2 The woman said to the serpent, "From the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat; 3 but from the fruit of the tree which is in the middle of the garden, God has said, 'You shall not eat from it or touch it, or you will die.' " God did not speak directly to Eve. He spoke to Adam and mentioned a specific tree that he was not to eat from--"the tree of the knowledge of good and evil." Did Adam give Eve incorrect information????? Interesting question isn't it???? Look at her response to the serpent.
4 The serpent said to the woman, "You surely will not die! 5 "For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." Do you realize that the Serpent pointed Eve away from the "tree of life." What else can you expect from Satan. His desire is to steer you away from what is good for you. He intentionally led Eve to eat from the "tree" that God commanded not to eat from. Satan was on His vocation as the Father of lies. He knows how to tell half truths and misquote God's Words and intentions. He is crafty. His job is to cause us to reconsider what God says.
6 When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. All of a sudden Eve begun to see the tree differently. JUST like sin today. Contrary to what you may believe, Sin always looks good. But it is against God's command. PLEASE note that Adam was with Eve and that he did not REMIND her of what God had told HIM, nor did he correct the lie of the Serpent. Do you stand by and allow a lie to be told about God's Word and say nothing?????
I know that most of you know the rest of the story well, but do you???? Look at what God says as to the reason why He put Adam and Eve out of the Garden.
Genesis 3:22 "Then the LORD God said, "Behold, the man has become like one of Us, knowing good and evil; and now, he might stretch out his hand, and take also from the tree of life, and eat, and live forever"— 23 therefore the LORD God sent him out from the garden of Eden, to cultivate the ground from which he was taken. 24 So He drove the man out; and at the east of the garden of Eden He stationed the cherubim and the flaming sword which turned every direction to guard the way to the tree of life.
Many of us concentrate on the lie of the Serpent regarding the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil," but let's look at the choice that Adam and Eve made. God had commanded Adam to eat from every tree including the "tree of life" but instead they chose to disobey God and listen to a lie. It was their choice. As a result of their disobedience God prevented them from eating from the "tree of life" which would have allowed them to live forever.
These are choices we make everyday. We make choices contrary to what God has commanded us. We ignore what the Word of God says and listen to the lies of the world. How can we read the about Adam and Eve and not learn that God is not pleased when we disobey Him? He does punish disobedience. I am thankful to report the He does not give us what we really deserve. He gives us GRACE and MERCY. He does however have the right to do whatever HE wants to do to us, because HE created US. We must understand that the Words in the Bible are not OLD or NEW it is GOOD!!!!!!! The Bible teaches that "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Tim 3:16-17)
The "tree of life" is never mentioned again until the book of Revelation. "Then he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, 2 in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations ." (Rev 22:1-2) Until there is a new heaven and a new earth (Rev. 21:1-2) the "tree of life" will not be accessable to man. If you know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savoir, you will see the "tree of life," if you don't, you will never see the TREE of LIFE. Trust Him today.
Blessings.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
A response to an Unexpected Death.
On Monday, June 8, 2009, I learned of the death of the St. Thomas Carnival Queen in a car accident. Karence Decosta was selected less than two months ago. She graduated from Charlotte Amalie High School on Sunday afternoon and at 2:15 a.m. Monday she was pronounced dead on impact after losing control of her vehicle. She was asked to sing at the graduation and chose the song "Ave Maria". (I'll say more about this later)
On Tuesday morning as a former Carnival Queen (1985) I called the local radion station in St. Thomas (WSTA) to offer my condolences to her family and to others in the community. Irvin "Brownie" Brown asked if me to speak "live" on the radio. I used this opportunity to share the following words of Scripture found in Proverbs 3:5&6: Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. I stated that it is clear that we do not understand why accidents like these happen, yet we can never lean on our own understanding. We would certainly fail to honor God's sovereign will, if we do. I also shared Ecclesiates 3:1&2 There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven— 2 A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.
(The following was not said on the radio) We must all expect death because the it is a one per one chance that we will all face it. None of us have a "get out of death" card---neither do we have a "pick the proper time for your death" card. As insensitive as this may seem, if we understand these two realities, we can live each day to its fullness. God is faithful and He should be worshipped at all times. Do you know what David did after God took His son with Bathsheba????? He worshipped God. (2 Samuel 12:1-20) Many do not understand that God IS always in control. Ask Abraham if God is in control???? God asked Abraham to take the life of his son Isaac and when God saw that he was willing to be obedient, He knew that Abraham feared Him. (Gen. 22:1-14) Do we reverence God the way Abraham did???? Do we understand that when death comes that we must trust and worship God?
Here are the words to Ave Maria: "Hail Mary full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thee among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary mother of God. Pray for us sinners now and at the time of our death. Amen." Karence sung this song in Latin as it is usally done, so many people including myself never consider what the words of this song mean in English.
Biblically speaking, only a small part of the song is correct. As the mother of Jesus, Mary was blessed (Luke 1:42) The practice of Catholics however, to deify Mary and to state that her mother conceived her through immaculate conception is false. Mary was no more special than Abraham, Isaiah, Jeremiah or David. God chose her to fulfill the task of being the mother of Jesus. She found favor with God not because she had done anything or because she too came from a virgin birth. There is no biblical evidence that any other person was conceived of the Holy Spirit other than Jesus. HE was the only one born this way because HE needed to be sinless. HE alone was the Son of God not the son of Joseph, but Joseph was indeed respected by Jesus as His earthly father.
There is nothing biblical about the belief of Catholics that Mary or any other dead "saint"(those that they consider to be saints) can pray for us. When asked by His disciples to teach them how to pray, Jesus taught them to pray to God our Father. He also did the same. (John 17) We are to pray to God ourselves while we are still alive, not ask (dead) Mary to pray for us. Because of Jesus' death, (Hebrews 2:17; 4:14&15; 5-1) we now pray through Him not through a priest or through any other person. His sacrifice made it possible for us to pray to God through Him. We can also have others to pray for us, and we should pray for others as well. But we are never to ask the dead to pray for us.
We will never know why Karence chose to sing this song, but I was informed that many at the graduation believed that the song had something to do with her death--without even knowing what the words of the song meant in English. I hope that these words offer some clarity for those of you who read this. (You might want to pass this on to others.) We must be careful about reading meaning into things carelessly. I pray that Karence knew God personally. However, by singing this song she only did what many "gospel" artists do everyday--they sing songs that are not biblically correct, but sound good to the ears. A song should be about the Gospel found in the Word of God in order to be called "gospel" music. I do not believe that the song had anything to do with her death.
A FINAL WORD ON DEATH:
Jesus taught in John 11:25-26, that any man who believes in Him will never die. We must trust Him while we are alive and in death we SHALL live with HIM.
To God Be the Glory.
On Tuesday morning as a former Carnival Queen (1985) I called the local radion station in St. Thomas (WSTA) to offer my condolences to her family and to others in the community. Irvin "Brownie" Brown asked if me to speak "live" on the radio. I used this opportunity to share the following words of Scripture found in Proverbs 3:5&6: Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. I stated that it is clear that we do not understand why accidents like these happen, yet we can never lean on our own understanding. We would certainly fail to honor God's sovereign will, if we do. I also shared Ecclesiates 3:1&2 There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven— 2 A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.
(The following was not said on the radio) We must all expect death because the it is a one per one chance that we will all face it. None of us have a "get out of death" card---neither do we have a "pick the proper time for your death" card. As insensitive as this may seem, if we understand these two realities, we can live each day to its fullness. God is faithful and He should be worshipped at all times. Do you know what David did after God took His son with Bathsheba????? He worshipped God. (2 Samuel 12:1-20) Many do not understand that God IS always in control. Ask Abraham if God is in control???? God asked Abraham to take the life of his son Isaac and when God saw that he was willing to be obedient, He knew that Abraham feared Him. (Gen. 22:1-14) Do we reverence God the way Abraham did???? Do we understand that when death comes that we must trust and worship God?
Here are the words to Ave Maria: "Hail Mary full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thee among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary mother of God. Pray for us sinners now and at the time of our death. Amen." Karence sung this song in Latin as it is usally done, so many people including myself never consider what the words of this song mean in English.
Biblically speaking, only a small part of the song is correct. As the mother of Jesus, Mary was blessed (Luke 1:42) The practice of Catholics however, to deify Mary and to state that her mother conceived her through immaculate conception is false. Mary was no more special than Abraham, Isaiah, Jeremiah or David. God chose her to fulfill the task of being the mother of Jesus. She found favor with God not because she had done anything or because she too came from a virgin birth. There is no biblical evidence that any other person was conceived of the Holy Spirit other than Jesus. HE was the only one born this way because HE needed to be sinless. HE alone was the Son of God not the son of Joseph, but Joseph was indeed respected by Jesus as His earthly father.
There is nothing biblical about the belief of Catholics that Mary or any other dead "saint"(those that they consider to be saints) can pray for us. When asked by His disciples to teach them how to pray, Jesus taught them to pray to God our Father. He also did the same. (John 17) We are to pray to God ourselves while we are still alive, not ask (dead) Mary to pray for us. Because of Jesus' death, (Hebrews 2:17; 4:14&15; 5-1) we now pray through Him not through a priest or through any other person. His sacrifice made it possible for us to pray to God through Him. We can also have others to pray for us, and we should pray for others as well. But we are never to ask the dead to pray for us.
We will never know why Karence chose to sing this song, but I was informed that many at the graduation believed that the song had something to do with her death--without even knowing what the words of the song meant in English. I hope that these words offer some clarity for those of you who read this. (You might want to pass this on to others.) We must be careful about reading meaning into things carelessly. I pray that Karence knew God personally. However, by singing this song she only did what many "gospel" artists do everyday--they sing songs that are not biblically correct, but sound good to the ears. A song should be about the Gospel found in the Word of God in order to be called "gospel" music. I do not believe that the song had anything to do with her death.
A FINAL WORD ON DEATH:
Jesus taught in John 11:25-26, that any man who believes in Him will never die. We must trust Him while we are alive and in death we SHALL live with HIM.
To God Be the Glory.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
I AM BACK
Good Day All:
I pray that all of you are doing well. I am happy to say that I have gotten some much needed rest and am prepared to be with you each day except Sunday. After graduation, I had planned to blog each day, but I soon learned that I needed some down time. If this can be of encouragement to you---WE ALL NEED DOWN TIME. Don't wait until your body tells you that you need down.
My husband and I are currently studying the book of Jeremiah for our devotion each day. I mention this because it is incredible to read about Israel's story and then compare how much God's people still have not learned. Israel thumbed there nose at God and forgot how HE had saved them and provided for them. They--- like us, only remembered God when life was difficult. As soon as life is seemingly good, some of us get too busy for God.
If you have any Bible questions please feel free to ask.
In the next couple of weeks, I will be on vacation for several days, but I will try to blog from wherever I go.
Blessings.
I pray that all of you are doing well. I am happy to say that I have gotten some much needed rest and am prepared to be with you each day except Sunday. After graduation, I had planned to blog each day, but I soon learned that I needed some down time. If this can be of encouragement to you---WE ALL NEED DOWN TIME. Don't wait until your body tells you that you need down.
My husband and I are currently studying the book of Jeremiah for our devotion each day. I mention this because it is incredible to read about Israel's story and then compare how much God's people still have not learned. Israel thumbed there nose at God and forgot how HE had saved them and provided for them. They--- like us, only remembered God when life was difficult. As soon as life is seemingly good, some of us get too busy for God.
If you have any Bible questions please feel free to ask.
In the next couple of weeks, I will be on vacation for several days, but I will try to blog from wherever I go.
Blessings.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Great Tool
Many of you reading this Blog may want to have the Bible on your computer/laptop or even your PDA. This website www.e-sword.net has the Bible available for download, for FREE. This will allow you to search for a Scripture verse or word that you may have heard but cannot find. It is King James Version because it is the most commonly used version.
Be Blessed.
John 17: 25-26: "O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. 26 And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them."
Be Blessed.
John 17: 25-26: "O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. 26 And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them."
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Great news and my perspective
I would like for you to share in my celebration. I have passed all required courses for completion of a Master of Arts in Christian Studies at Luther Rice Seminary and University. My decision to attend Seminary was to equip myself to handle the Word of God appropriately. There are too many people who do not understand how to properly interpret the Bible. This happens because they do not take into consideration the culture and context in which the Bible was written. For example, when a book of the Bible was written, it was written to a specific group of people in a specific time. There are principles and directives that affect different groups of people directly. There are five rules to correct Bible interpretation. 1) CONTEXT, 2) CONTEXT,
3) CONTEXT, (THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT RULE- this rule hinges on proper interpretation) 4) Narrative is NOT normative (because something occured once, this does not mean that it will happen again-ie. parting of the Red Sea) 5) Scripture can NEVER mean what it NEVER meant. (we cannot make Scripture mean something in 2009 what it did not mean when it was written originally by the author who was inspired of God to write it) On this blog, my hope is to assist those who read it to be better equipped to interpret the Bible correctly. My degree was gained for this very purpose. Please feel free to ask questions, or make comments so that together we can grow in God's Word. I will try to post at least once every week.
Romans 12
This chapter in Romans is straightforward and the principles are to be practiced by every born again believer in Christ. These are words that I have tried to live by with much prayer. Academic Degrees are worth nothing if they are not used to build up others, as we glorify God in our daily living.
1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 2 And do not be conformed to this world , but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. 3 For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. 4 For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; 7 if service , in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; 8 or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality ; he who leads , with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. 9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, 13 contributing to the needs of the saints , practicing hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you ; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. 19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord. 20 "BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD." 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
3) CONTEXT, (THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT RULE- this rule hinges on proper interpretation) 4) Narrative is NOT normative (because something occured once, this does not mean that it will happen again-ie. parting of the Red Sea) 5) Scripture can NEVER mean what it NEVER meant. (we cannot make Scripture mean something in 2009 what it did not mean when it was written originally by the author who was inspired of God to write it) On this blog, my hope is to assist those who read it to be better equipped to interpret the Bible correctly. My degree was gained for this very purpose. Please feel free to ask questions, or make comments so that together we can grow in God's Word. I will try to post at least once every week.
Romans 12
This chapter in Romans is straightforward and the principles are to be practiced by every born again believer in Christ. These are words that I have tried to live by with much prayer. Academic Degrees are worth nothing if they are not used to build up others, as we glorify God in our daily living.
1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 2 And do not be conformed to this world , but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. 3 For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. 4 For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; 7 if service , in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; 8 or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality ; he who leads , with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. 9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, 13 contributing to the needs of the saints , practicing hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you ; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. 19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord. 20 "BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD." 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Blessings.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
What does this mean???
I would like to hear from you.
What does this verse of Scripture mean?
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important that food, and the body more important than clothes???" (Matt 6:25)
I want to hear from you.
Blessings.
What does this verse of Scripture mean?
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important that food, and the body more important than clothes???" (Matt 6:25)
I want to hear from you.
Blessings.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
God Bless You
May God Bless You Today.
Have you called someone today???? Have you called them to ask them how they are doing??? I pray that God would impress upon you that time is short and that people need to see about each other. You are in God's hands and eyes. Use your hands to help others. Use your eyes to see the glory of His Goodness.
Did you read the Bible today????
Did you pray????
I pray that real soon you will testify of His goodness.
Have you called someone today???? Have you called them to ask them how they are doing??? I pray that God would impress upon you that time is short and that people need to see about each other. You are in God's hands and eyes. Use your hands to help others. Use your eyes to see the glory of His Goodness.
Did you read the Bible today????
Did you pray????
I pray that real soon you will testify of His goodness.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Sorry I haven't been able to blog
Have you ever heard of writers block??? Well I didn't have that at all. I had a book that I needed to read that was 602 pages long and that took all of my time last week. Did you read what I said last week about planning? God has a way of having you to walk through doors of your own making. I planned to blog last week and it didn't happen, so I will just move on. My encouragement to you is to do the same. Again, if you planned something and didn't have an opportunity to get to it--- move on. The Bible teaches that worry does not add a year to your life, if it did, we would all live forever.
Scripture of the Day: Proverbs 3:5-6--- Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.
Scripture of the Day: Proverbs 3:5-6--- Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Mondays are Special
Each Monday you can have a fresh start to your week. Use this day to plan your week. Don't let things just happen to you. If you know that there is something that has to get done, then start today. GIve yourself a deadline. If you are able to get it done, you will see the importance of setting deadlines. If not, you can try again next week. I know that this may sound like a simple instruction, but I have met many individuals who cannot plan. They go through life by chance and the result is usually a haphazard life. Some fail to plan and some plan to fail. Which person are you?
Blessings.
Blessings.
Friday, April 3, 2009
The Best Sermon that I ever heard
Attached is a link to one of the best Sermons that I have ever heard. It is by Voddie Baucham of Houston, TX. If you want to change your perspective about your life please listen to it.
http://www.voddiebaucham.org/vbm/Podcast/Entries/2008/1/7_Multigenerational_Promise.html
Blessings.
http://www.voddiebaucham.org/vbm/Podcast/Entries/2008/1/7_Multigenerational_Promise.html
Blessings.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
The Righteous and the Wicked Contrasted
Psalm 1
1 How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. 3 He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers. 4 The wicked are not so, But they are like chaff which the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6 For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the wicked will perish.
What things do you do daily? Taking daily medication, daily baths, or daily eating are all things that we do. Although these things are necessary, they all pale in comparison to the need to have daily study of the Word of God. So many people want to be blessed by God, yet spend no time meditating on the Word of God. Before reading the Bible to see what God says about our situation, we call a friend or family member. Help US LORD.
Here is a plan that you can follow if you want to be blessed.
1)Have a set time each day to read the Bible.
2)Have a set place.
3)Have a set plan-if you say that you will read for 5,10, or 30 minutes stick to the plan.
4)Pray to God- thank Him for His Word, ask Him to speak to you through His Word.
5)Read, Read, Read
6)Reflect on what you read.
7)Write down what you learned
8)Pray to God - thank Him again and again.
Be Blessed.
1 How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. 3 He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers. 4 The wicked are not so, But they are like chaff which the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6 For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the wicked will perish.
What things do you do daily? Taking daily medication, daily baths, or daily eating are all things that we do. Although these things are necessary, they all pale in comparison to the need to have daily study of the Word of God. So many people want to be blessed by God, yet spend no time meditating on the Word of God. Before reading the Bible to see what God says about our situation, we call a friend or family member. Help US LORD.
Here is a plan that you can follow if you want to be blessed.
1)Have a set time each day to read the Bible.
2)Have a set place.
3)Have a set plan-if you say that you will read for 5,10, or 30 minutes stick to the plan.
4)Pray to God- thank Him for His Word, ask Him to speak to you through His Word.
5)Read, Read, Read
6)Reflect on what you read.
7)Write down what you learned
8)Pray to God - thank Him again and again.
Be Blessed.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Chocolate Chip Recipe
Chocolate Chip Cookies –Actually this is Neiman Marcus Cookie recipe!!!!!
The story goes that a woman visited Neiman Marcus and tasted their cookies. She asked the clerk if the recipe was for sale and she said yes for 250. She asked her to add it to her bill. When she received her credit card statement there was a charge for $250.00. After contacting Neiman Marcus and hearing their refusal to refund the charge she decided to get even by sharing it with everyone that she knew, after all SHE DID PAY FOR IT. So here it is.
Makes 12-15 large Cookies
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder, slightly crushed
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cream the butter with the sugars until fluffy. 2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. 3. Combine the dry ingredients and beat into the butter mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips. 4. Drop by large spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375F for eight to 10 minutes or 10-12 minutes for a crispier cookie. (I only use 4 ozs. of chocolate chips and add ¼ cup of nuts)
ENJOY AND GOD BLESS YOU.
The story goes that a woman visited Neiman Marcus and tasted their cookies. She asked the clerk if the recipe was for sale and she said yes for 250. She asked her to add it to her bill. When she received her credit card statement there was a charge for $250.00. After contacting Neiman Marcus and hearing their refusal to refund the charge she decided to get even by sharing it with everyone that she knew, after all SHE DID PAY FOR IT. So here it is.
Makes 12-15 large Cookies
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups flour
1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder, slightly crushed
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cream the butter with the sugars until fluffy. 2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. 3. Combine the dry ingredients and beat into the butter mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips. 4. Drop by large spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375F for eight to 10 minutes or 10-12 minutes for a crispier cookie. (I only use 4 ozs. of chocolate chips and add ¼ cup of nuts)
ENJOY AND GOD BLESS YOU.
In the beginning
God Bless You if you are reading this today.
It is always important to lay the foundation on which everything is to be built. A few months ago when the former President of the United States was leaving office, he was interviewed and asked what did he think of the Bible. He stated that it was a good book. The interviewer then asked, do you really believe the stories in the Bible? He responded that no one can really take it literally and believe that everything in it really happended. He then restated that it is a good book to read.
Mr. President, the Bible is more than a a good book, it is the BOOK. Either you believe all of it or none of it. It is by faith that we accept and believe the entire book. The Bible begins by decribing to us the beginning of the world. As incredible as the entire book is, if you can believe the beginning, that God spoke the Word and it all came into existence, (except for man---we were made from the earth) then the rest is not impossible to believe. I by faith believe all of it. To God Be the Glory and thank you for Your Word--THE BIBLE.
GENESIS
CHAPTER 1
The Creation
1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters. 3 Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light. 4 God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light day, and the darkness He called night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day. 6 Then God said, "Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters." 7 God made the expanse , and separated the waters which were below the expanse from the waters which were above the expanse ; and it was so. 8 God called the expanse heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, a second day. 9 Then God said, "Let the waters below the heavens be gathered into one place, and let the dry land appear"; and it was so. 10 God called the dry land earth, and the gathering of the waters He called seas; and God saw that it was good. 11 Then God said, "Let the earth sprout vegetation , plants yielding seed, and fruit trees on the earth bearing fruit after their kind with seed in them"; and it was so. 12 The earth brought forth vegetation , plants yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit with seed in them, after their kind; and God saw that it was good. 13 There was evening and there was morning, a third day. 14 Then God said, "Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night, and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years; 15 and let them be for lights in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth"; and it was so. 16 God made the two great lights, the greater light to govern the day, and the lesser light to govern the night; He made the stars also. 17 God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth, 18 and to govern the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness; and God saw that it was good. 19 There was evening and there was morning, a fourth day. 20 Then God said, "Let the waters teem with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the heavens." 21 God created the great sea monsters and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarmed after their kind, and every winged bird after its kind; and God saw that it was good. 22 God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth." 23 There was evening and there was morning, a fifth day. 24 Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth living creatures after their kind: cattle and creeping things and beasts of the earth after their kind"; and it was so. 25 God made the beasts of the earth after their kind, and the cattle after their kind, and everything that creeps on the ground after its kind; and God saw that it was good. 26 Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." 27 God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 God blessed them; and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth." 29 Then God said, "Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you; 30 and to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the sky and to every thing that moves on the earth which has life, I have given every green plant for food"; and it was so. 31 God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day. (NASB)
It is always important to lay the foundation on which everything is to be built. A few months ago when the former President of the United States was leaving office, he was interviewed and asked what did he think of the Bible. He stated that it was a good book. The interviewer then asked, do you really believe the stories in the Bible? He responded that no one can really take it literally and believe that everything in it really happended. He then restated that it is a good book to read.
Mr. President, the Bible is more than a a good book, it is the BOOK. Either you believe all of it or none of it. It is by faith that we accept and believe the entire book. The Bible begins by decribing to us the beginning of the world. As incredible as the entire book is, if you can believe the beginning, that God spoke the Word and it all came into existence, (except for man---we were made from the earth) then the rest is not impossible to believe. I by faith believe all of it. To God Be the Glory and thank you for Your Word--THE BIBLE.
GENESIS
CHAPTER 1
The Creation
1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters. 3 Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light. 4 God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light day, and the darkness He called night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day. 6 Then God said, "Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters." 7 God made the expanse , and separated the waters which were below the expanse from the waters which were above the expanse ; and it was so. 8 God called the expanse heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, a second day. 9 Then God said, "Let the waters below the heavens be gathered into one place, and let the dry land appear"; and it was so. 10 God called the dry land earth, and the gathering of the waters He called seas; and God saw that it was good. 11 Then God said, "Let the earth sprout vegetation , plants yielding seed, and fruit trees on the earth bearing fruit after their kind with seed in them"; and it was so. 12 The earth brought forth vegetation , plants yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit with seed in them, after their kind; and God saw that it was good. 13 There was evening and there was morning, a third day. 14 Then God said, "Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night, and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years; 15 and let them be for lights in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth"; and it was so. 16 God made the two great lights, the greater light to govern the day, and the lesser light to govern the night; He made the stars also. 17 God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth, 18 and to govern the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness; and God saw that it was good. 19 There was evening and there was morning, a fourth day. 20 Then God said, "Let the waters teem with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the heavens." 21 God created the great sea monsters and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarmed after their kind, and every winged bird after its kind; and God saw that it was good. 22 God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth." 23 There was evening and there was morning, a fifth day. 24 Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth living creatures after their kind: cattle and creeping things and beasts of the earth after their kind"; and it was so. 25 God made the beasts of the earth after their kind, and the cattle after their kind, and everything that creeps on the ground after its kind; and God saw that it was good. 26 Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." 27 God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 God blessed them; and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth." 29 Then God said, "Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you; 30 and to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the sky and to every thing that moves on the earth which has life, I have given every green plant for food"; and it was so. 31 God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day. (NASB)
Welcome
Many of us put off doing what we know God has told us to do for far to long. Today this ends for me. I will no longer wait for the right moment or as we say the opportune time. I also encourage you to do the same.
Pray each day with expectation. Then get up off your knees (hopefully you do this) and get busy. Keep in mind however, it is only what we do for Christ will last. This includes witnessing to others about Christ, giving to those less fortunate than yourself, and committing yourself to studying Gods' special revelation to humanity--The Holy Bible (be careful with which translation you use - recommended: New American Standard). If you have not yet trusted Christ as Savoir, call on Him today so that you may be empowered by the Holy Spirit. It is only through the Holy Spirit that you can know what you need to do and be empowered to get it done.
Each day, you may visit this blog to read or post. I intend to offer Scripture, encouragement, prayer, advice, and humor each day.
May God continue to bless you.
"In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams." Acts 2:17
Pray each day with expectation. Then get up off your knees (hopefully you do this) and get busy. Keep in mind however, it is only what we do for Christ will last. This includes witnessing to others about Christ, giving to those less fortunate than yourself, and committing yourself to studying Gods' special revelation to humanity--The Holy Bible (be careful with which translation you use - recommended: New American Standard). If you have not yet trusted Christ as Savoir, call on Him today so that you may be empowered by the Holy Spirit. It is only through the Holy Spirit that you can know what you need to do and be empowered to get it done.
Each day, you may visit this blog to read or post. I intend to offer Scripture, encouragement, prayer, advice, and humor each day.
May God continue to bless you.
"In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams." Acts 2:17
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