Pretty As A Presents

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Often we miss out on our blessings because of the packaging. I was talking to a friend of mine today about her recent experience on a new job. She was judged and ignored because of her appearance to make a long story short. Her new co-workers spent half the day is silence in her presence until they began to talk over her. One co-worker was consoling the other about the recent lose of her parent to Alzheimer, when my friend chimed in on the conversation. Come to find out all of them had lost a parent in the last year to the disease and the once cold, silent office became a hub of strength and encouragement. By the end of the workday a bound had formed and new friendships made.

After listening to her speak on the matter, I thought how often do we miss our blessing because it isn't packaged as we expected to be. How many times have we missed an opportunity because it looked like a problem or a challenge. The Bible speaks on judging others based on appearances. (James 2) Furthermore as Christians we should train ourselves not to be deceived by appearances because we walk by faith.

One of my favorite stories about persevering in the faith is Joseph. He went from being sold into slavery by his brothers, wrongfully imprisoned by his master, to the second most powerful man in Egypt. It looked bad for him but he maintained his faith in God and there were great rewards for him.

Remember to keep your faith and allow the Holy Spirit to guide your decisions and not what a situation appears to be. Be blessed.

Planting The Seed

Yesterday I shared a post about kiddie Bibles and I said I would follow up with some scriptures I do daily with my children. Currently, my oldest daughter, Suga Momma, is finishing up Kindergarten at our neighborhood school. Although I was not fond of the idea, I felt like this was an opportunity to trust God. (We will be homes schooling again next year!) So before she heads out the door I read the scriptures from my confession for my children aloud.

Daniel 1:4 Youths without blemish, well-favored in appearance and skill in all wisdom, discernment, and understanding, apt in learning knowledge, competent to stand and serve in the king’s palace—and to teach them literature and language of the Chaldeans.

I like to remind myself that my children are a cut above the rest because of the favor God has on their lives. As a result of this favor they are smart and talented.

Daniel 1:9 Now God made Daniel to find favor, compassion, and loving-kindness with the chief of the eunuchs.

Even when they depart into the world because of God’s favor on them, they have the favor of others.

Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew (and) approved of your (as My chosen instrument), and before you were born I separated you and set you apart, consecrating you; (and) I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.

We all are faced with acceptance issues at one time or another, but I want my children to know regardless of how others may reject you sometimes God chose you. He knows you inside and out and He chose you for great works.

The following scriptures are scriptures I ask them to tell me what they think it means and why the Bible is telling us these things. They are great discussion points for children of all ages (I have little people but I’m sure bigger kids and teens alike can apply some critical thinking here.)

Proverbs 5:1 My son, be attentive to my wisdom (godly wisdom learned by actual and costly experience), and incline your ear to my understanding (of what is becoming and prudent for you).

Proverbs 10:1  A wise man makes a glad father, but a foolish and self confident son is the grief of his mother.

Proverbs 2:11-12 Discretion shall watch over you, understanding shall keep, to deliver you from the way of evil men, from men who speak perverse things and are liars.

Proverbs 20:11 Even a child is known by his acts, whether  (or not) what  he does is pure and right

John 13:34 I give you a new commandment: that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too should love one another.

These are just a few. We have different memory verses around the house that we read over when we do daily task like getting dressed,  or going to bed and what have you. What are some of the scriptures you share with your children and what do they mean to you?

Who Are You?

Just a praise break from some mental work.

Be encouraged! Love you!

Hold Up!

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A couple of years ago, I purchased cute little, fuzzy Tiny Bear Bibles for my girls. The fuzzy book was beautifully illustrated and had short little rhymes for popular biblical stories.  The first story was about creation. I read it to my children, they enjoyed the rhymes and the pictures but in my heart I felt like they cutesy poem sucked the power and the greatness out of the story of creation. 

As a maturing Christian I find power and instruction in God speaking the world into creation. Throughout the Bible we learn the power of our spoken word. We are instructed to speak those things that are not as though they were. We are forewarned that life and death are in the power of the tongue.

When the poem in the book speaks of God flinging stars in the sky and teaching birds how to fly. I felt like it was misleading our children or implanting the seed for deception later.

Recently, (due to my growth) I began to read to my children from the Bible, mostly the NIV translation. As a result they are very intrigued and I know they are not misinformed.  I speak to them at their level of understanding and give them examples from their own life in relation to the text.

This morning reading from Genesis chapter 24-29 about Isaac, Rebekah, Esau and Jacob I thought there are so many sound lessons children can learn from these chapters. There is so much my children can relate to like, siblings with opposing personalities; quibbling and fighting with siblings and the results of doing so. I love discussing how although Jacob lied and deceived his way to his birthright and blessing God still honored his word and blessed him. I feel like it is critical to express to your children that no matter what you do, God still loves you and he will always keep his word. It is okay to fall short but because we love God we ask for forgiveness  and try our best everyday to live like Christ.

Even as adults we struggle with guilt and doubt  that God will do what he said after we sin. So for us to instill this into our children now will give them wisdom like in Proverbs 5:1 (My son, be attentive to my wisdom (godly wisdom learned by actual and costly experience), and incline your ear to my understanding (of what is becoming and prudent for you)) We are teaching them how to conquer the devil's deception.
Parents, I encourage you to read the Word to your children. It is our duty to do so. The Bible says Deuteronomy 6:4-7 - Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! ⁵And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. ⁶And these words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart; ⁷and you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. It goes on to say Deuteronomy 12:28 Be careful to obey all these regulations I am giving you, so that it may always go well with you and your children after you, because you will be doing what is good and right in the eyes of the LORD your God.

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As parents, we all desire that our children walk in the fear of the Lord.  I know for myself if I don’t do anything else successfully with my children I will teach them the Word of God. The beauty of doing so, when I put the kingdom first, all those things will be added unto me. So I don’t have to worry about what I’m neglecting or putting off until after Bible Study because those things will be taken care of.

In conclusion, don’t water down the gospel to your children. It is the GOOD NEWS, and we all can accept good news! Meet them where they are, teach them to hide the words in their hearts, and how to apply the Word to their lives. With all the mess going on in their world, bullies, school shootings, stranger danger they need to be properly equipped to be confident in our God and his promises to us.

Tomorrow I will post some challenges my children face and the scriptures we confess our victories with. Please comment and share your children’s victory verses as well so they can be added to the post.

Just Thinking….

Sunday in church, Pastor said, “You can do many things, but what are you called to do?” or something to that affect. He was communicating that when just because we are capable and have the opportunity to do something doesn’t mean that it is what God desires for us to do.

Reflecting on the comment, I am uncertain of what God desires for me to do in ministry. I know I am to be a good wife and mother and I desire to be so as well but when it comes to ministry I have a lot of question marks. Which bothers me because Pastor also said, “Faith will not pass the question mark.”

I don’t know if blogging is for me, but I committed to do it and until I hear a definite “NO” from God I will keep my word. I see a lot of  opportunities in my life right now to step in and get involved. There is so much work that needs to be done in my community, my child’s school, and other areas I frequent. I guess what I’m trying to say is, Is this where I should be ministering? or am I using my question marks as an excuse not to roll up my sleeves and get busy.

I’ll be praying about this today, and for days to come. Please pray with me. Leave me a comment with your thoughts and experiences.

All my love…

OH YES! Please support our Cups for Cures Event for Alex Lemonade Stand. This our second year participating  and we are excited to be of service again this year. Last year, my girls had an awesome time learning what it means to give and how anyone can help.  There is more to that experience I will share with you soon. In the meantime, you can click here and donate online or you can text “LEMONADE E71860” to 85944 to make a $10 donation. Thank you in advance!

Psalms 130

Psalm 130

A Song of Ascents.

 ¹ Out of the depths I have cried to You, O LORD;
 ² Lord, hear my voice!
         Let Your ears be attentive
         To the voice of my supplications.
        
 ³ If You, LORD, should mark iniquities,
         O Lord, who could stand?
 ⁴ But there is forgiveness with You,
         That You may be feared.
        
 ⁵ I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,
         And in His word I do hope.
 ⁶ My soul waits for the Lord
         More than those who watch for the morning—
         Yes, more than those who watch for the morning.
        
 ⁷ O Israel, hope in the LORD;
         For with the LORD there is mercy,
         And with Him is abundant redemption.
 ⁸ And He shall redeem Israel
         From all his iniquities.


The prophesies and poetry of the book of Psalms is amazing. The raw emotions expressed throughout Psalms is comforting. For me, knowing that God knows our emotions all too well and that we can still turn to Him is... astounding. He is just that awesome. Who wouldn't want to be His?

My Confession

Stating the obvious, my blog is called My Life, My Ministry. The title originated out of my frustration. I had joined a church that did an awesome job of incorporating all new members into a ministry. However, I felt like ministries available didn’t fit my lifestyle. At the time I was a pregnant mother of two small little girls, without personal transportation. I just didn’t have the luxury of commuting an hour and a half for an hour long meeting to commute another hour and half on a weeknight. So while venting to my mother, I told her I don’t have to be on a committee to minister. My life is my ministry!

Well, moving on to today. Since I started blogging, I haven’t really shared much of my life with you all so I decided again motivated by my frustrations (I know I’m continuously working on that.) To be more candid. My confession is I am wrestling with my mouth. Today taming this tongue of mine was like wrestling the Rock. But I am going to victorious. I know this Christian walk is a fight, a good fight and I know I will win!

Another area of my life I am dealing with is TV. I don’t watch much but I have recently felt convicted about what I have been watching. I was a big crime drama fan. NCIS, Criminal Minds….Criminal Minds, CSI, NUMB3RS I enjoyed those shows. Then one night while watching Criminal Minds (the third episode in a row) I thought. I spend four to six hours a night watching murders, molesters, sin. But I couldn’t focus more than twenty minutes in prayer. I started to cut back. As of now I haven’t watched Criminal Minds in a week or more.

The other show I stopped watching which I found even more difficult to quit is Operation Repo. I recently found the show and it has been very addicted. My personal beef with me watching the show is as a Christian I feel like it is wrong for me to be entertained by other people’s lack. So I felt like in order for me to continue living the blessed life, I had to cut it  loose.

My final confession for the night is I missed my evening prayer two days in a row.  My nights have been a downward spiral following the absence of prayer. It seems like everything becomes totally dysfunctional and complicated and I just can’t break away from the chaos long enough to pray. As a result, I decided to move my prayer to four and start cooking dinner afterwards. I know once I follow through with prayer my peace and favor will return and concluding the day will be bliss under the blessing.

Well, these are my confessions, and a glimpse into my life. Be blessed and be encouraged.

Down and Out and About

 

I enjoy the before and after puzzles on Wheel of Fortune, hence the title. Today people are in need of Christ more than ever before. Humanity is crying out for a savior, and they need to do so…it’s LAST CALL! However, it is a tremendous disappointment to know that souls aren’t being harvested because we are just to “busy”.  Becoming distracted is to easily done in today’s high tech, too many channels, unlimited, 24/7 access world. But today I want to encourage you to remember collect the harvest.

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As Christians we all pray for the salvation of others. It is love that drives us to want the best for others, and this topic often takes a top priority in our prayer lives. Matthew 10:37-38 reads, “Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

This scriptures reminds me that we must pray for the salvation of our neighbors. More so we must recognize that we are the workers. We must not get inundated in errands and tasks so much that we miss opportunities to minister.

Accept the opportunity to be an answer to the prayers of a brothers and sisters in Christ and minister to the cashier, teller, waitress, whoever. People need conformations that their “Jesus Freak” relative is not crazy, but Christianity is real and it wears no age, color, or creed.

Have you invited anyone into the family today? Heaven is still accepting believers!

Too Good Not To Share....

Is God Good?

REJOICE!

HE HAS RISEN!Enjoy this Resurrection Sunday.

Martha, Is That You?

Recently I found a blog, Raising Homemakers, and it is a gem! I really enjoy the post and the applicable instruction. Her posts challenge and encourage me to grow in being a better wife and mother.

After reading, I often find myself asking, “ Are you being Martha or Mary?”. Are you busy,  too busy maintaining  and missing opportunities to seed godly principles into your children. Jesus said, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken from her.” She chose Christ. She chose to make him priority.

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33 The most effective way to have peace and joy in your home is to sit at Christ’s feet.  Allow his instruction to shape every area of your life and you will be satisfied and successful.

Preparing for Resurrection Sunday do not allow celebrations overshadow the sacrifice. Take time sit at the Master’s feet and savor his presence.  It will be more rewarding than anything we can plan.

REJOICE! HE HAS RISEN!

Never Too Much.

The more I rely on God the more I realize how much I truly need Him. In the transitional period of the day, preparing dinner, getting baths, preparing for tomorrow it is easy to become cranky or stressed. I like to take deep breaths and sing.

Back to the scheduled program. 

“Do you see this?”

I know I need to spend time in the written Word of God. I make it a priority to do so in the morning because it makes my day. I now know this time with him is like getting dressed. I get up, I pray, confess, and read. It is putting on his Holy Spirit. Sometimes, it is enough to get me through until five for my next time with him, often it is like physical clothing, the weather changes I need some more on. I get soiled, I need to allow Christ to clean me up and put on some new clothes. It is vital to spend this time with him, in the written word.

This morning, I prayed that God gives me the desire to please him, to walk in the fear of the Lord. (Thank God for Creflo Dollar. The word he brings is always so timely and applicable in my life!) I’m accepting, walking in manifestation in my life. This is my season! As I seek him, he makes it so clear what I need to do and know to “wear” his favor, his blessing. This isn’t something that came about in one session but it has been redefining process.

An illustration of the process is like going from couch potato to professional athlete. First, you make up your mind, I want to do that. I’m going to do that. Next you get up and move. You loose weight, you start developing muscle, you start training for specific skills, you learn the rules and plays to the game. It isn’t something you just get up and do. Walking into the promises of God, isn’t one game day. It is a lifestyle. As with a professional athlete, you begin to filter all of your life choices to line up with that one decision. Eating ice cream for breakfast for a week is no longer as desirable because you have a bigger objective. Your  desire pushes you to train because you want to win it all.

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So with that in mind, let’s look at Ezekiel 47:1-12. “Son of man, do you see this?” From the temple flows a river. 

• First, of all that is miraculous in itself. Water flowing from the alter, this isn’t your everyday temple.
• Furthermore, this isn’t a trickle of water, The scripture says that he measure 1500 feet four times, and the fourth time it was too deep to cross.
• The next thing I would like to point out is verse nine. It says, “Swarms of living creature will live wherever the river flows. There will be large numbers of fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh; so where the river flows everything will live. The wherever in this verse caught my attention. In my physical knowledge bank, rivers flow a set course. That is why you can map them, because it is where it is and that’s where it is going to be (for a long time, geographical things like erosion eventually change…yeah, yeah, you see the point). But this river is different, it can move it’s physical location. The second thing about this river, it makes salt water fresh. It changes whatever is exposed to it.
• Looking at the eco system around and in this river, you see (1) a large number of fish. (2) Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks. These trees will be forever green, leaves will not wither nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear fruit. The fruit from these trees will serve for food and their leaves for healing. It looks like an oasis.

Keep all that in mind, and lets ask some questions.

First question, Where is this river? What is this river? because we already established that it isn’t natural.This river is the voice of God. It is described for us in Ezekiel 43:2 and Revelation 1:15.  You got that? (Yes excited and using poor grammar, excuse me please.)

Now, you know the answer to the next question,  Why/how this river moves? Sound travels. And I just thought of this. It’s like that secret game you may have played in grade school. One person starts a secret and each person whispers to the next person in the class. So when you get to the last person and the secret is said aloud, it is far from what it began as. You start with, “Cats say meow.” and end with, “I like brown cows that go wow.” Because some people are hard of hearing, some people repeat what they interpret not what they heard, and some people flat out lie for personal enjoyment.” But even with all those things considered, how do you know you heard the word of God?

Wherever, the pure, true voice of God is heard, you will see:

• Changes. Salt water is made fresh.
• And you can see the “oasis”. You will see the goodness, favor. (Like Joseph, people saw the favor on his life Genesis 39)
• There will be a large number of fish. Look for quantity. (thousands came to hear Jesus speak)
• There will be variety, fruit trees of all kind will be there. (through out the Bible people of all walks of life: devout women, Gentiles, diseased, rich, poor sought prophets and Jesus to hear a word from God.)
• There will be fruit. Good, edible fruit. People will see the fruit of the Spirit.(Galatians 5:23)
• There will be no lack.  Every month they will bear fruit.
• There will be service. This is place where people can come and know they will be fed, it will be given.
• There will be healing. This is a place where people can come and know they will be healed.

These are all ways to validate,  discern rater the voice of God. Furthermore as believers, we should be checking ourselves to be sure that we are an oasis for others.  Can others hear the rushing waters near me? Can they see lives being changed? Can they see God’s goodness in my life, deeds, attitude?

More importantly do I go to people and give my fruit, service, healing. These waters move.  The river moves, are you moving? Are you going with fruit, the service, the healing ? You have to go, the people are bound, stuck! Throughout the Bible, New and Old Testament alike prophets and disciples traveled. They go here and there and back to here, write there for a follow up.

But a lot of believers have an attitude like, I’m here and if God wants me to reach some one, He knows where to find me. No! You go! (inserted self conviction here)

Concluding,  Are you sharing that water that makes new, fresh life? Are you renewing yourself with God’s word, God’s voice? Is your life a reflection of Psalm 1:3,' “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.”? If not, perhaps you need to drink more water.


If you have never accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior and you would like to get this water you read about today. All you have to do is confess with you mouth and believe in your heart. Pleas say this prayer aloud:

"Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."

You are saved.

The Real Easter, Part 2

What does Easter really celebrate? How did all the cute little animals and eggs come into the picture? And does it have anything to do with Christ's sacrifice?

Well let's begin with the name of the holiday, Easter. Easter is derived from the pagan holiday Ishtar of the same pronunciation. This holiday celebrated  the resurrection of the pagan god Tammuz, and Akkadian god who regulates seasons and symbolizes death and rebirth in nature.

Here is the scoop on the whole deal. Check out Genesis 10.

I had every intention of going into detail of the origin of Easter as well as the gods associated with it, so forth and so on, but I won't. This blog is to glorify the true and living God that I serve. So if you want the background on them, hit Google. If you would like an informative succinct explanation read on. 

The Origin of Easter

by Creflo Dollar

Christians recognize Easter by honoring the day our Lord Jesus Christ was resurrected from the dead. The holiday often involves a traditional church service, with a resurrection-themed message, along with other traditions such as giving Easter baskets, filled with colorful, decorated eggs and candy; stuffed Easter bunnies; and egg hunts for children. There are many questions about Easter, such as: Is Easter Sunday truly the day when Jesus rose from the dead? Where did all the strange customs come from, which have nothing to do with the resurrection of Jesus? We need to know the answers to these questions.

The first thing we should know is that professing Christians were not the only ones who celebrated a festival called “Easter.” The word easter is actually a derivative of the word “Ishtar,” which was a day on which many people who practiced pagan religion commemorated the resurrection of one of the gods they worshiped, named “Tammuz.” This god was believed to be the offspring of their moon-goddess and sun-god.

In biblical times, there was a man named Nimrod, who was the grandson of Noah’s son Ham. Nimrod married his own mother and became a powerful king. In fact, the people over whom Nimrod ruled elevated him to the status of “god-man.” His wife and mother, Semiramis, became the powerful queen of ancient Babylon.

Nimrod was eventually killed, and his body was cut into pieces and sent to various parts of his kingdom. However, the part of his body that could not be found was his reproductive organs. Semiramis claimed that Nimrod could not come back to life without them and told the people of Babylon that he had ascended to the sun and was now to be called “Baal,” the sun god. Queen Semiramis also proclaimed that Baal should be worshiped.

This woman was essentially creating a pagan religion and setting herself up as a goddess on the earth. She claimed that she came down from the moon in a giant moon egg that fell into the Euphrates River and that her “birth” took place at the time as the first full moon after the spring equinox. Semiramis became known as “Ishtar,” which is pronounced “Easter,” and her moon egg became known as “Ishtar’s egg.” This is where the central theme of eggs originated in connection with the Easter holiday.

Ishtar soon became pregnant and claimed that it was the rays of the sun-god Baal that caused her to conceive. She named her son Tammuz, and it was believed that he was especially fond of rabbits. As a result, the animal became sacred in this ancient pagan religion.

Worshipers of this religion were taught to meditate on the sacred mysteries of Baal and Tammuz and to celebrate on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox. This was considered “Ishtar’s Sunday” and was celebrated with rabbits and eggs.

The truth is that the traditional Easter celebration that many of us grew up practicing actually has nothing to do with the resurrection of Jesus Christ! In fact, eggs, rabbits, and hot cross buns have everything to do with an ancient pagan religion that is based on idol worship. For this reason, we should make sure we understand what we are actually celebrating. Jesus came to the earth and died for our sins so that we may have eternal, abundant life. Our worship belongs to the one and only true God. Therefore, instead of celebrating Easter Sunday, as the body of Christ, we celebrate Resurrection Sunday. Take the time to explain these truths to your family and children so they will know the truth about “Easter."

The original source of this preceding text is: The Origin of Easter

 As believers we are dishonoring God by celebrating Jesus sacrifice with pagan rituals. By allowing bunnies and eggs to shadow the cross is disrespectful and unappreciative. Are you blinded by deception that you are living in the fear of the Lord? Are you really mocking sin? This is a holy season honoring the ultimate sacrifice, are you giving Christ a holy, pure sacrifice during this time? Turn away from the eggs and deception and give God the reverent fear He is due.

The end.

True Blue

I am going to post daily! I will make it through these 60 days and until Jesus comes to minister daily through my blog. Today I was suppose to post part two of The Real Easter, but I'm not satisfied with my presentation right now so expect it tomorrow. I just need my quiet time with the Spirit to know that it is what it is intended to be. So in the meantime, let's just worship!

The Real Easter, Part 1

Proverbs 19:23 The reverent, worshipful fear of the Lord leads to life, and he who has it rests satisfied; he cannot be visited with [actual] evil. (Amplified Bible)

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As Christians, we are God's chosen people. That is an awesome thing! Through Christ's sacrifice we are now heirs to the throne. Resurrection Sunday is just four days away and I can't help but get excited! I can't help but get inquisitive. Why do we celebrate Resurrection Sunday the way we do? What significance do eggs, bunnies, and hot cross buns have to do with this holy season?


Growing up, I remember the Easter egg hunts we attended at the church. It was fun to win the prizes, eat the candy, and find the coveted golden egg. I also remember, the Easter speeches and plays. One year in particular our youth ministry arranged for us to go to a neighboring church's play. It was a huge production of the crucifix. This was before the movie, Passions of the Christ, so it was as graphic as I have seen or even heard the story told before. 


The visual presentation wasn't like HBO or anything, but the illusions of the nails going through his hands, the thunderous sound effects, and acting made for a real eye opener for me. Before I never really associated excruciating pain with the sacrifice Christ made. I didn't know the history of death by cross. I didn't understand the extent of his sacrifice. I couldn't fathom the emotional tsunami that drowned him through the process. He bared the weight of the world's sin!  The guilt, the shame, the loss self worth of my own sin is overwhelming. Now multiple that by trillions of people's sins. He did that! At that church production, I gained understanding,  I was moved. I was confused.


What did the fun Saturday in the park have to do with what I just experienced? What does Easter really celebrate?


Like I mentioned before, I don't like long posts so this will be continued. Be blessed and come back for more truth. (Keep the opening scripture in mind because we will tie it all together soon.)

Finding My Way

The past week or so has been very exciting and victorious for me. As for the blog, it has been as you can see... poor, because I haven't posted. So today I am starting my 60 day challenge. There are some core areas of my life where I really need to be consistent to go to the next level so the next 60 days I am challenging myself to post daily on my blog.

Some other areas I am overcoming in the next 60 days include exercising, reading to each of my children daily (I have four and do group readings but they need more specific age appropriate reading.), and daily confessions.

Are there areas in your life that you need to be victorious in, but inconsistency is stumping you? Be victorious today by starting with me and we can go together to the promise. God promises us a blessed life but we can be our biggest obstacle from receiving the blessing.

I'll keep you posted on my victories, and you keep my posted on yours. We already have the victory so lets receive it and achieve it!

No Limits!

There are no limits to what God has for you! It is exciting to know that! Activate your faith and allow God to take you places beyond your dreams.


Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all thing and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 John 2

Tolerance vs Long-suffering

John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (the Amplified says, to the full, till it overflows)

Piyaphon

The word in my house is ABUNDANCE (nothing missing, nothing broken)! I say it all the time, my children say it all the time. I must admit, this is something I have said for a long time and until recently I didn't understand all that it meant. Thanks to Dr Dollar I know what it really means to live life abundantly. His teachings on the blood of Christ is life changing! With this new enlightenment I want to address tolerance versus long-suffering.

According to most thesauri tolerance and long-suffering are used as synonyms. However by definition the words mean very different things. Tolerance is defined as the capacity to endure pain and hardship (in that since it is a synonym) sympathy or indulgence for beliefs or practices differing from or conflicting with one's own. (That is the difference!) Long-suffering is defined as patiently enduring lasting offense or hardship.

My beef with the words being used as synonyms is as disciples we cannot yield from our belief. Our beliefs must align with the Word of God. God is never changing, He remains the same, thus our beliefs should not bend from His. All to often we go through circumstance because we want to be patient, long-suffering. However, we must ask if we are you confusing long-suffering with tolerance? You may be asking me, what does this have to do with abundance?

That is the beauty of it Beloved, Jesus came that we MAY have life abundantly, but is out choice to accept it and walk in that blessed life. If we as Christians continue to tolerate sin, tolerate illness, tolerant poverty, tolerate any thing less than the best in every area of our life we are limiting the infinite power of the blood of Christ. All too often we allow the world and its so called logic to shape our thinking into doing just that. 

This past weekend, I felt sick. My throat was hurting, my body ached. Being armed with the Word of God I declared I be healed. Christ delivered me from sickness. I felt better immediately. However, today, I suffered from pollen allergies all day. Laying down in the silence, I heard God say, "You tolerate it."  All day I struggled with sinus pressure, breathing, functioning with a headache because "everyone have allergies, it's normal". I would not accept the flu but I willing accepted allergies. I allowed the world to shape my mind to accept sickness, when Jesus already delivered me! Family, don't believe the propaganda the world is dishing. Silence the enemy's outlets that brainwash you into accepting less than God's best for you.

The blood of Christ has freed you, are you choosing to put on the shackles? I pray that you aren't. I challenge you to think about the lies you are accepting as truth and shatter those lies by submerging your mind in the Word of God. Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-- his good, pleasing, and perfect will. 

God will is for you to live in abundance, nothing broken and nothing missing. Accept it and declare it!

What is it you want to declare in your life today? Leave a comment and I will agree in prayer with you. 

Because I Love You

Idea Go

I had no intentions of posting today. However, I am learning to listen and be obedient to the Spirit, so here we are.

This is a link to a blog I came across maybe a month or so ago. This blog, this woman has really been in my heart and prayers since. I am posting her link so that you can read, pray, and bless her.

Finding My Verb one of my favorite posts.

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.                          -3 John 1:2

D is for Discipline

Continuing from the previous post,(read it here) the word for today is discipline. Merriam-Webster defines discipline as (1) punishment (2) obsolete instruction (3) training that corrects, molds, or perfects the mental faculties or moral character (5) control gained by enforcing obedience or order (a) orderly or prescribed conduct  or pattern of behavior (b) self control (6) a rule or system of rules governing conduct or activity. I really wrote the full definition because it fascinates me how all of them apply to the topic at hand.

Turning to the Word of God, the final authority we find these scriptures addressing discipline.

Hebrews 12:11  Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but  painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

This scripture speaks to the believer as well as the non believer very clearly. I know a lot of people feel as though living as a Christian is "not fun". They are too wrapped up in a sinful lifestyle that salvation is the last thing on their mind because what they are doing is "working for them now". Some non believers feel there are too many rules and expectations of Christ like behavior so why bother at all. Then you also have some "intellectual", "modern" people that feel as though the Bible is irrelevant  for today's lifestyle and times. This scripture admits, yes this walk is hard, but it is worth it if you commit. Having a life free of conflict, guilt and sin seems more relevant today as any other time and worth the commitment.

To the believer, this scripture is encouraging, to know that the life you chosen isn't always fun or easy but AFTERWARD the results are the peaceable (free from argument and conflict) fruit of righteousness (acting in accord with divine law : free from guilt and sin.).


I would like to point out to non believers that is says free FROM guilt and sin, not free OF guilt and sin. As believers our acceptance of Christ made us righteous. ( Romans 6:23 The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord) Sin equals death, as a non believer you pay for your sins with your death. However, by accepting Christ as your Savior the price of your sins have been paid, thus giving you eternal life. So it boils down to Christ fronting the bill for your sins when you make him Lord of your life.

Returning to discipline the next scripture is:

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Do you not know that those who run in a  race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Paul uses a beautiful analogy in this scripture about the lifestyle of a disciple. Here he illustrates that you must be focused on the prize and to do so you must discipline the body. Like an athlete eats, exercise, train, sleep for their crown or trophy, we as Christians must do the same for the crown of life. We have to eat of the word continuously, exercise faith, love, self control, train our mouths to speak life. This isn't a one time event but a continuous commitment, a LIFESTYLE!

Galatians 5:22-23- But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

You are identified by your fruit. You would not see pecans on a tree and call it an orange tree. So as people our characteristics accurately shows the world who we are. Exercising self control is a marker of who you are. As a disciple the fruit of the Spirit should be present and operating in your life. If the fruit aren't present then look at you life like a car with a check engine light on. Something needs to be repaired, sin is operating in your life and needs to come to an end.


2 Timothy 1:7 (AMP) For God did not give us the spirit of timidity, but of power and love and of a calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self control.

In previous scriptures discipline, self-control was something we exerted, labored to do. However in 2 Timothy it is given by God.  I like that. It brings clarity to my misconception. Self-control is not a conscience effort, rather a gift and like any other gift you own it and choose to do what you like with it. If you received stand mixer for you birthday and wanted to make cheesecake. You would have to choose to use it for best results or leave it idle and hope for the best. (and there is little hope there) 


However I have felt self control that was really none of my control. Maybe you have experienced it as well, when the enemy attacked you so blatantly and viciously you wanted to and thought about retaliating in a sinful manner. But this indescribable peace submerged you. You were well aware of the circumstances but God did  not allow you to feel or react as others may have expected, thus you outwardly displayed self control but you know it was nothing but God's doing. 


Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. ¹² It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, ¹³ while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, ¹⁴ who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.


It is our calling as disciples of Christ to be disciplined, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts. This scriptures puts my seeking into a nut shell. You aren't being a disciple of Christ if you are not disciplined. You must overcome you flesh and live sober, righteous, and godly NOW. Our Savior is coming and as His people this what we must do. We must live lives that are reflective of who we are but more importantly who we belong to. He commands that we are zealous for good works. We go out into the world eager to be of service, eager to give, eager to help and heal. We have to spread His love, His Word, His ministry. We are his disciples, that is what we do and who we are.


Well I thank God for speaking to me, now I know disciple and discipline go hand in hand. I pray that these writings have illuminated the Word of God for you and that you will put it to practice in your life. Please share your comments, scriptures, and prayer request below. Be blessed.

D is for Disciple

A couple of years ago I heard a sermon about disciples and discipline. Honestly I don't remember much else. Although I ofter remember the words together when I find myself missing prayer, devotion, or church service and especially when I procrastinate. The night before last the words came to mind again when I washed dishes hours after dinner was over. So this morning I sought out understanding of the two words.

Disciple is defined by Merriam-Webster as one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrine of another as: (a) one of the twelve in the inner circle of Christ's followers according to the Gospels accounts (b) a convinced adherent of a school or individual.  So by definition I'm a disciple! (and yes I'm excited about that) To further my understanding I searched the word origin. Disciple (according to Merriam Webster) comes from the Latin word discipulus  meaning follower of Christ; pupil (again that's me!) 

Image provided by Renjith Krishnan

Okay, that's all well and good that by definition I am a disciple. I mean that is my desire to follow Christ. However the final authority as a follower of Christ is the Word of God. So, what does the Bible say about disciples?

First of all to be a disciple, as mentioned before you much accept the doctrine of Christ. That doctrine is Jesus Christ died for your sins so that you may be in relations with God. Romans 10:9-10 reads That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.

The second part of that is assist. You assist in the doctrine of Jesus Christ. The simple answer to that is walking in love.  

Image provided by Chrisroll

More specific answers I read in these scriptures:

2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 

You and I must walk upright before God. Do work that we aren't ashamed of, and use the Bible in context.

Matthew 10:1 He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.

Note: We were called to Him. Given authority! to drive out evil and heal. 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good deed.

( I really endorse reading 2 Timothy in it's entirety because Paul writes him about ministry. So it is all relevant to the topic at hand, being a disciple.) But I featured these two verses to illustrate that as disciples you must use the Word to reproof FOR correction, instruction in righteousness (improve one's walk with Christ) with the results being that the man of God is  COMPLETE. 

Take note that pointing out of fault isn't to humiliate or hurt but to improve and direct one that they may be complete. WHOLE. So when you reproof the way in which you go about it must be in love, because any other way will not lead to that person being made whole, complete. Two of the Be Attitudes in our home is we use kind words to build each other up and we speak to each other quietly and with respect. Because when we turn away from that it leads to hurt feelings and offenses.

Image provided by Luigi Diamantis

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and our of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long suffering and teaching. 

PREACH! When they want to hear it and when they don't continue to spread the Word of God.  Win them over to Christ,  by being  convincing, consistent and teaching.  (again read 2 Timothy in it's entirety!)

Of course there is much more to being a disciple. However, I'm not a fan of very long posts so we may cover that more later. I would like to note that I am a firm believer in works. (James 14-26) I believe that as a disciple of Christ you should meet the physical needs of the people you minister to. But like I said we may cover that more later.

Are you a disciple of Christ? Would you like to become a disciple of Christ? If you haven't accepted Christ as Lord and would like to do so repeat this prayer:

""Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."  

Click SALVATION to be directed to another link with more information. Leave a comment with questions or prayer request. If you have already accepted Christ as your Savior please leave you comments and testimony about discipleship.  We will pick up tomorrow with discipline. Thank you for stopping by. 

Great Exchange

Blown or Planned Course?

Image provided by Michal Marcol 

In recent months I have spiritually grown, having found a minister that really teaches. I feel as though under his leadership I have not only a better understanding of a fruitful relationship with God and the Word of God but also the knowledge of how to apply it in my life. It amazes me how simple the answers are when living under the Word of God.


Continuing to read the Word and grow, I have areas in my life that I know needs improvement. In the past couple of weeks I have been struggling with consistency and actively ministering to others. I felt and sometimes still feel as though I don't do enough ministering. I am selfishly wrapped up in my life, my walk, and my family that I just didn't make time to minister to others and I don't know what my ministry is. 


A couple of weeks ago I decided to start blogging. However, I didn't follow through with actually posting or spending enough time in prayer or studying to do so. Well, this morning after praying. I heard seek and you shall find. To me it meant search. Usually when I have devotion, I say God where ever I open my Bible to today, that is the word you have for me. But this morning I heard, seek and you shall find. So this morning I sought for disciple and discipline because that has been in my spirit in the past few days.


Do you live your life by happenstance or are you seeking? What is it that you should be seeking in God's word for today? Please comment and share.