I’m in the storm. I don’t know which way is left or right. The rain is cold. The waters are rough. Those who I thought were my friends I have found are not. I’ve been through storms before, but this one seems to have lasted longer than the others. Is this storm my end? Is this the storm that defines me? People are saying many things about me like those did to Job. The Job that held to his faith. The Job who wouldn’t curse God, but said though will He say me, yet will I trust in Him. That Job that experience lost of so much; earthly wealth, family, so called friends, health and etc. You know I just know thought that the Devil took away Job’s children, but not Job’s wife. Is it because the Devil knew Job’s wife wouldn’t be much or any confront for him? Well, like Job those who I thought would comfort has only added to my struggle. Why? I have forgiven. I have helped. I have tried to be good even to those who haven’t been good to me. Yet, I receive all of this. Well, my Lord I may fall even more. Like Joseph I may have to go to the lowest low. Like David my family even may want my destruction. Like Daniel I may be sent to the Lions din. Like Samson I may be bond. Like Elijah people may want my life. Like Jesus I will suffer often even for that which I did not do. Yet, my hope is in the Lord. My hope is in my Savior. My Redeemer lives! I have the victory. My body may become broken and bruised. My mind may often be filled with confusion. People may try to destroy my reputation, but my redeemer lives. I want to be the ground the seed falls on that produces a crop a hundred fold. Lord, I’m in the storm, but I’m not in despair. NO! Not this time. I will not harden my heart or be like others when trouble comes, panic and not look to YOU. I look to YOU! I long for YOU. Jesus Jesus is the name I call on. Not my daddy or my mother, but my Lord Jesus. Even if I am not delivered to my understanding, I trust in YOU. YOU instructed me to come to YOU. Well, I’m here now. Let your presence be known. I praise YOU for now, my struggles and pain. I praise YOU for my comfort and joy. I praise YOU Lord because you are worthy to be praised.
Forty Brave Soldiers
In Armenia around 320 AD, there was a company of forty Roman soldiers known as the Thundering Legion. When the Governor discovered they were Christians, he was very angry and threatened to have them killed. But the governor was also anxious to spare them because these soldiers were amongst the bravest in the army. He promised them money and honors if they would only consent to worship the gods which the Emperor worshipped.
One responded, "You offer us money that remains behind, and glory that fades away." They told him that they would rather die than renounce their faith.
This answer further enraged the governor so he ordered them to die a slow painful death. He commanded them to be stripped of their clothes and placed upon the ice of a frozen lake until they froze to death. At the same time he gave orders that a large tank of warm water should be placed at the side of the ice, so that if any of them should wish to renounce Jesus Christ and save his life, he might be taken off the lake and put into the warm water.
When these good soldiers were put upon the ice, they encouraged each other to not be afraid of dying. "One night of suffering," they said, "and then an eternity of happiness in Heaven." They prayed that their number would remain 40 and they could all persevere to the end.
I heard a song about these soldiers some 20 years ago by Tom Green. In the song's chorus, they encourage each other by singing, "Forty soldiers for Jesus, Forty brave soldiers for Christ . . ." They endured this torture for many hours and then the cold finally became too much for one of them. He asked for one of the soldiers guarding them to carry him to safety and the warm bath. No sooner had he been put into the bath than he died.
The shivering soldiers became discouraged and saddened that now there were 39 instead of the 40 they had prayed for. They began to sing with less enthusiasm, "Thirty-nine soldiers for Jesus . . ."
Suddenly one of the 'pagan' guards who had observed the soldiers, tore off his clothes and ran onto the lake singing, "FORTY brave soldiers for Jesus!"
As the next day dawned, 40 brave soldiers stood before their true King and heard Him say, "Well done, my good and faithful servants."
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
"It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick."
I have started to read the New Testament a few days ago. Every time I read it, I’m in awe. A lot of things stood about what I’ve read so far, but I wanted to write a little about Jesus saying, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” (Matthew 8:12) Jesus was talking to the Pharisees (teachers of the law) when he made this statement. I know there is often discussions about whether or not this or that person should be allowed in church; homosexuals, adulteress, teen mothers, and etc. I hope that we all could agree that we are sinners. Why then do these conversations often take place. I do not agree with a lifestyle of homosexuality, adultery and/or various other sinful acts. While I do not see how one could be this way or that way, I’m not judge or jury nor do I believe I should be allowed to stop anyone from trying to find, praise or serve God. If someone came to me and told me not to come to church because they heard me listening to sinful music or because I got mad at someone yet didn’t forgive them, I would not feel welcome and may not be taught about mercy. When Jesus was having dinner with tax collectors and sinners, the Pharisees wondered why Jesus would do such a thing. Jesus replied and said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” Jesus also told the Pharisees this, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ “For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Matthew 8:12 and 13. So instead of people suggesting that certain people shouldn’t come to church, they should be welcomed with open arms. So since, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few,” maybe it’s time for us to invite those to church who have a lifestyle that we don’t agree with. Your thoughts?
Isaiah 29:13
The Lord says: "These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men.
James 4
11Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?
1 John 2:1-2
"My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not
sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ
the righteous; and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for
ours only, but also for those of the whole world." NASB
Isaiah 61:7
7 Instead of their shame
my people will receive a double portion,
and instead of disgrace
they will rejoice in their inheritance;
and so they will inherit a double portion in their land,
and everlasting joy will be theirs.
Romans 8:1
"Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
NASB
Matthew 7:2:6
“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. 2 For you will be treated as you treat others.[a] The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged.[b]
3 “And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye[c] when you have a log in your own? 4 How can you think of saying to your friend,[d] ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? 5 Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.
Matthew 22:36-40 NIV
36"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'[a] 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[b] 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Monday, June 21, 2010
What do righteousness and wickedness have in common?
A lot of things I see on TV disgust me. These realty shows where people are cursing every minute, there is often drama and confusion, fights break out and so on just often makes me upset. Even some movies I just hate such as a movie called Knowing and The Da Vinci Code. For those of you who haven’t seen either, I would suggest to pass on watching them. Save two to 4 hours of your life and either choose to watch something else or take up your time with a hobby of yours. To give you what the movies are about; Knowing is a movie that suggests there is no God and some things in the Bible can be explained away through the belief in aliens. The Da Vinci Code is also blasphemous and tells a story of Jesus having children through Mary Madeline, her being the head of the Church and people trying to cover it up. I may be wrong from my interpretation of the movie, but that is what I gathered. So why do we waste our time and cloud our minds with all of this confusion and subject ourselves to being influence by it? Do we think it doesn’t have an affect on us? 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 states:
14Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 15What harmony is there between Christ and Belial[a]? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? 16What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people." 17"Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you."18"I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."
Also, Matthew 7:15-20 states:
15 “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. 16 You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? 17 A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. 19 So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. 20 Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.
But we (me included) continue to watch these movies and television shows. Just like we consume unhealthy food that is bad for the body, we often watch and listen to things that are unhealthy to the soul. I feel awful for those who are being raised by TV and shows such as 106 and park on BET. I remember listening to the following;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxy4rdYKhmI
A few lines from the song are:
“Mama, daddy what ya doin?
Ain't took a trip in years
Busy with both ya careers
Trying to make a mark
Even bought a house, but ya kids live at 106 && park”
Some try to keep their children away from influential things, but don’t realize that they set the example. If a child sees their parents watching bad things, they often think they should be able to do the same. Also, how can we justify knowing our children can be influenced by what they see and hear, yet we not being able be influence in the same ways. I remember when I went off to basketball camp when I was in HS. It was in the North and people talked differently. When I returned home from the camp, I remember speaking similar to how the people I was in camp with. Did I mean to be influenced? No. However, I was none the less. That is why I believe it is vital to attempt to surround ones shelf with positive people and things. Your thoughts?
14Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 15What harmony is there between Christ and Belial[a]? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? 16What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people." 17"Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you."18"I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."
Also, Matthew 7:15-20 states:
15 “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. 16 You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? 17 A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. 19 So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. 20 Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.
But we (me included) continue to watch these movies and television shows. Just like we consume unhealthy food that is bad for the body, we often watch and listen to things that are unhealthy to the soul. I feel awful for those who are being raised by TV and shows such as 106 and park on BET. I remember listening to the following;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxy4rdYKhmI
A few lines from the song are:
“Mama, daddy what ya doin?
Ain't took a trip in years
Busy with both ya careers
Trying to make a mark
Even bought a house, but ya kids live at 106 && park”
Some try to keep their children away from influential things, but don’t realize that they set the example. If a child sees their parents watching bad things, they often think they should be able to do the same. Also, how can we justify knowing our children can be influenced by what they see and hear, yet we not being able be influence in the same ways. I remember when I went off to basketball camp when I was in HS. It was in the North and people talked differently. When I returned home from the camp, I remember speaking similar to how the people I was in camp with. Did I mean to be influenced? No. However, I was none the less. That is why I believe it is vital to attempt to surround ones shelf with positive people and things. Your thoughts?
Be Careful Who You Look Up To
Growing up I tended to admire athletes, musical artist and TV stars. Yet the older I get the more I look up to people in the Bible, my parents, hard working parents, and people who try to make a positive difference in this world and in people's lives. Now, I still have admiration for some athletes, singers and actors such as India Arie, Sade, Kirk Franklin, Denezel Washington, Tyler Perry, and etc in part because of their positive work, the struggles that they endured and the faith I believe they have. Yet, I’ve learned that one should be careful who he/she chooses to admire. Although everyone is flawed, what you may think of some people may not necessary be true.
I remember when Oprah came out with a show I believe entitled the Big Give. I was excited. Oprah decided to try to reward those that did for others. She often seemed to have shows to help people and this world. I admired that! I still do. Never the less, look at the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xM5ILOsHLnw
Seeing that clip shocked me. I'm not judge or jury, but I strongly disagree with some of the things Oprah was saying and it sparked my thoughts of being careful who I look up to.
I am wanting to get your thoughts on this and also some people who you admire in your life and why.
I remember when Oprah came out with a show I believe entitled the Big Give. I was excited. Oprah decided to try to reward those that did for others. She often seemed to have shows to help people and this world. I admired that! I still do. Never the less, look at the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xM5ILOsHLnw
Seeing that clip shocked me. I'm not judge or jury, but I strongly disagree with some of the things Oprah was saying and it sparked my thoughts of being careful who I look up to.
I am wanting to get your thoughts on this and also some people who you admire in your life and why.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
It Is in Our Darkest Hour…
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (NIV)
I watched a movie once called the End of Days. A quote from this movie stuck out and has remained with me which says, “It is in our darkest hour that we must have faith.” I believe that is true. It is important to have faith always, but it is easier to have faith when things are going good. However, what about when things are going bad. What about the times when you may have done nothing wrong, but you still experience bad times? What about the times when you believe you have earned something/work hard for it yet did not receive it? What about the times when you’ve lost your closet friend or family through situations such as death? What about the times when you or someone is suffering for no reason you can understand? Is it easy to have faith then? I remember reading about when Jesus was in a boat with some of his disciples and a storm calm along. Now, lets examine the situation, I'm in a boat with someone who has healed the sick, rebuke demons and taught things my heart and mind were still trying to understand. All of a sudden a storm comes. Do I panic. Well, God is constantly in my boat with me at work, home and in situations I barely understand and I panic to the point of sleepless nights and lost hope. Why? Yes, I'm flawed, but unlike Jesus disciples, I've read some of the stores about how Jesus protected and healed many. Never-the-less, I panic and think things have no chance of getting better. But since God loves me, God sends messages my way. I believe God uses people and things to often strengthen us if we just be patient and prayerful, we may notice these things and people. It may come for the unlikeliest of places; the person you've been fighting with, the dad who abandoned you when you were younger or just a person you encounter through your every day life. God can use us all and I believe often does. After God calmed the storm when HIS disciples where in a state of panic, He asked, ""Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" Even if I have not seen any miracles (which I believe I have), I have read true stories about them. How do I know that they are true; it is my belief. Yet, when I go through my situations I sometimes forget about these stories or think because I'm a sinner, God won't deliver me. Yet, King David sinned and God delivered him. Why won't he do the same for me? It is in our darkest our that we must have faith statement will remain with me. I pray I read and study God's word more so history can remind me that like God has done before, HE can do it again. Be blessed through your storm. Be still! Don't panic or make things worse. God calms storms. Be encouraged!
BUTTERFLY
A man found a cocoon of a butterfly. One day a small opening appeared. He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that little hole. Then it seemed to stop making any progress. It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it could, and it could go no further.
So the man decided to help the butterfly. He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon.
The butterfly then emerged easily. But it had a swollen body and small, shriveled wings.
The man continued to watch the butterfly because he expected that, at any moment, the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to support the body, which would contract in time.
Neither happened! In fact, the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around with a swollen body and shriveled wings. It never was able to fly.
What the man, in his kindness and haste, did not understand was that the restricting cocoon and the struggle required for the butterfly to get through the tiny opening were God's way of forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its wings so that it would be ready for flight once it achieved its freedom from the cocoon.
Sometimes struggles are exactly what we need in our lives. If God allowed us to go through our lives without any obstacles, it would cripple us.
We would not be as strong as what we could have been. We could never fly!
I asked for Strength.........
And God gave me Difficulties to make me strong.
I asked for Wisdom.........
And God gave me Problems to solve.
I asked for Prosperity.........
And God gave me Brain and Brawn to work.
I asked for Courage.........
And God gave me Danger to overcome.
I asked for Love.........
And God gave me Troubled people to help.
I asked for Favors.........
And God gave me Opportunities.
I received nothing I wanted ........
I received everything I needed!
Life Still Has A Meaning
If there is a future there is time for mending-
Time to see your troubles coming to an ending.
Life is never hopeless however great your sorrow-
If you're looking forward to a new tomorrow.
If there is time for wishing then there is time for hoping-
When through doubt and darkness you are blindly groping.
Though the heart be heavy and hurt you may be feeling-
If there is time for praying there is time for healing.
So if through your window there is a new day breaking-
Thank God for the promise, though mind and soul be aching,
If with harvest over there is grain enough for gleaning-
There is a new tomorrow and life still has meaning.
~ Author unknown~
EAGLES IN A STORM
Did you know that an eagle knows when a storm is approaching long before it breaks?
The eagle will fly to some high spot and wait for the winds to come. When the storm hits, it sets its wings so that the wind will pick it up and lift it above the storm. While the storm rages below, the eagle is soaring above it.
The eagle does not escape the storm. It simply uses the storm to lift it higher. It rises on the winds that bring the storm.
When the storms of life come upon us - and all of us will experience them - we can rise above them by setting our minds and our belief toward God. The storms do not have to overcome us. We can allow God's power to lift us above them.
God enables us to ride the winds of the storm that bring sickness, tragedy, failure and disappointment in our lives. We can soar above the storm.
Remember, it is not the burdens of life that weigh us down, it is how we handle them.
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (NIV)
I watched a movie once called the End of Days. A quote from this movie stuck out and has remained with me which says, “It is in our darkest hour that we must have faith.” I believe that is true. It is important to have faith always, but it is easier to have faith when things are going good. However, what about when things are going bad. What about the times when you may have done nothing wrong, but you still experience bad times? What about the times when you believe you have earned something/work hard for it yet did not receive it? What about the times when you’ve lost your closet friend or family through situations such as death? What about the times when you or someone is suffering for no reason you can understand? Is it easy to have faith then? I remember reading about when Jesus was in a boat with some of his disciples and a storm calm along. Now, lets examine the situation, I'm in a boat with someone who has healed the sick, rebuke demons and taught things my heart and mind were still trying to understand. All of a sudden a storm comes. Do I panic. Well, God is constantly in my boat with me at work, home and in situations I barely understand and I panic to the point of sleepless nights and lost hope. Why? Yes, I'm flawed, but unlike Jesus disciples, I've read some of the stores about how Jesus protected and healed many. Never-the-less, I panic and think things have no chance of getting better. But since God loves me, God sends messages my way. I believe God uses people and things to often strengthen us if we just be patient and prayerful, we may notice these things and people. It may come for the unlikeliest of places; the person you've been fighting with, the dad who abandoned you when you were younger or just a person you encounter through your every day life. God can use us all and I believe often does. After God calmed the storm when HIS disciples where in a state of panic, He asked, ""Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" Even if I have not seen any miracles (which I believe I have), I have read true stories about them. How do I know that they are true; it is my belief. Yet, when I go through my situations I sometimes forget about these stories or think because I'm a sinner, God won't deliver me. Yet, King David sinned and God delivered him. Why won't he do the same for me? It is in our darkest our that we must have faith statement will remain with me. I pray I read and study God's word more so history can remind me that like God has done before, HE can do it again. Be blessed through your storm. Be still! Don't panic or make things worse. God calms storms. Be encouraged!
BUTTERFLY
A man found a cocoon of a butterfly. One day a small opening appeared. He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that little hole. Then it seemed to stop making any progress. It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it could, and it could go no further.
So the man decided to help the butterfly. He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon.
The butterfly then emerged easily. But it had a swollen body and small, shriveled wings.
The man continued to watch the butterfly because he expected that, at any moment, the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to support the body, which would contract in time.
Neither happened! In fact, the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around with a swollen body and shriveled wings. It never was able to fly.
What the man, in his kindness and haste, did not understand was that the restricting cocoon and the struggle required for the butterfly to get through the tiny opening were God's way of forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its wings so that it would be ready for flight once it achieved its freedom from the cocoon.
Sometimes struggles are exactly what we need in our lives. If God allowed us to go through our lives without any obstacles, it would cripple us.
We would not be as strong as what we could have been. We could never fly!
I asked for Strength.........
And God gave me Difficulties to make me strong.
I asked for Wisdom.........
And God gave me Problems to solve.
I asked for Prosperity.........
And God gave me Brain and Brawn to work.
I asked for Courage.........
And God gave me Danger to overcome.
I asked for Love.........
And God gave me Troubled people to help.
I asked for Favors.........
And God gave me Opportunities.
I received nothing I wanted ........
I received everything I needed!
Life Still Has A Meaning
If there is a future there is time for mending-
Time to see your troubles coming to an ending.
Life is never hopeless however great your sorrow-
If you're looking forward to a new tomorrow.
If there is time for wishing then there is time for hoping-
When through doubt and darkness you are blindly groping.
Though the heart be heavy and hurt you may be feeling-
If there is time for praying there is time for healing.
So if through your window there is a new day breaking-
Thank God for the promise, though mind and soul be aching,
If with harvest over there is grain enough for gleaning-
There is a new tomorrow and life still has meaning.
~ Author unknown~
EAGLES IN A STORM
Did you know that an eagle knows when a storm is approaching long before it breaks?
The eagle will fly to some high spot and wait for the winds to come. When the storm hits, it sets its wings so that the wind will pick it up and lift it above the storm. While the storm rages below, the eagle is soaring above it.
The eagle does not escape the storm. It simply uses the storm to lift it higher. It rises on the winds that bring the storm.
When the storms of life come upon us - and all of us will experience them - we can rise above them by setting our minds and our belief toward God. The storms do not have to overcome us. We can allow God's power to lift us above them.
God enables us to ride the winds of the storm that bring sickness, tragedy, failure and disappointment in our lives. We can soar above the storm.
Remember, it is not the burdens of life that weigh us down, it is how we handle them.
I'm Guilty
I’m guilty of lying, deceiving, stealing, not honoring my mother and father, not forgiving and so many other sins. I’m guilty and deserve punishment. My job I have I didn’t truly earn. The house I have is sustained not by my actions. The car that gets me from here to there works not only because of those who built it and the gas I put in it. I have received what I did not earn. I have even complained about not getting more. I compare myself to people I do not know much about. I am sometimes envious of those who I have judged and say do not deserve what they have. I’m guilty! The better man I want to be seems out of my reach. The people I admire; Joseph the dreamer, King David, Paul, Elijah, Elisha and so many others qualities I do not seem to possess. Yet, I keep waking up every morning. My house note continues to get paid. My car works and I am able to put gas in it. Today I’m still employed. I’m blessed to be able to see my parents almost every weekend. I have nieces and nephews that are as beautiful each flower in the field. I meet people who are blessings to me. I am able to ride my bicycle if I want. I can go to the movies when I want. I hear beautiful songs on Sundays. The sun warms not only my body but my soul. The rain cools the day and gives me good sleep. I’m guilty! I have a debt I can not repay. Death is what I’ve earned. A life of service and hard work is what is due to me. Yes, I’m guilty. For me, the glove did fit. The knife is found in my hand. I have blood on my shirt. In writing is my confession. Yet, through the grace of God daily I am set free. Through free gifts that by my actions I can not earn, God’s love is shown. Through my faith is my Lord Jesus Christ, I am giving grace! Through Jesus who died and was condemned because of me, God is shown to be merciful! I’m redeemed. I’m free! My heart beats because my Lord loves me! I will sin because I’m human. I will receive that which I didn’t earn. Can I learn to forgive as God has forgiven me? Can I learn to love as God loves me? If it had not been for God where would I be? God did not say enough pain, I will remove those nails I’ve all ready done enough. No, God’s love kept Him on the cross. Each moment God thought about me and how He just wants me to love Him and others. I’m overwhelmed! I’m guilty yet through faith and His love, I’m set free!
Ephesians 2:8-9
8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast.
Hebrews 11:1
Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (KJV)
Matthew 11
25At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.26Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.
27"All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bX1zjOWjzdg
Ephesians 2:8-9
8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast.
Hebrews 11:1
Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (KJV)
Matthew 11
25At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.26Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.
27"All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bX1zjOWjzdg
Thursday, June 10, 2010
What Are You Fighting For?
We all have things we want and people we want in our life. Whether it is a diamond ring, a bigger screen TV or a person we have been admiring who we think can add value to our life. We often strive and work for these things or people. I know I've wanted many things in my life; sports car, house, electronics, girls and etc. However, after often getting those things, it or they weren't what I expected them to be. Even if the things did live up to what I expected, it got old after a while and there was another want. Another great electronic gadget or thing I felt was needed. I can think of things I even want now; a bigger house with more features, a blu ray player, treadmill, etc and etc. I remember before I bought my house and how I stressed out about it. Then after getting my house, I was introduced to the wonderful world of having to pay for a house note. In Matthew 6:33 it is written, "But seek first HIS kingdom and HIS righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Here is the link to the all of Matthew 6 (http://www.biblica.com/bible/verse/index.php?q=matthew6&niv=yes). God has instructed us not to worry about our earthy wants and desires; what we will eat or drink and what clothes we want. God posses the question, "Is life more important than food and the body more important than clothes?" Shouldn't we focus on the eternal and not things we will eventually get rid of, not want and lose? However, how can one focus on these eternal things? Matthew 6:24 it is written that "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money." While at times when my back was against the wall I tried money to make me feel better. I bought this or that and for a brief moment I felt a little better, but in the long run my back was still against the wall and I was still in pain. Never-the-less, when I turned to God, even when I felt weak, God gave me not only the strength I needed to make it through, but joy in the process. Who else can do this? I know my dad, ma and friends can often encourage with providing joy in the process, but no one but God offers complete peace. In addition, I learned that the things I've often fought for, God did not want for me. Now my cousin once said you can either work with God or against God? We know God's will is going to be done regardless of our choices, so we should try to learn and be patient for what riches God has in store for us instead of wondering why we didn't get this job, get married to this person, and so on and so fourth. God protects us and know which situations are good for us and which are bad. If we only get to know God better through his word and a relationship with God. If only we would spend the time with God that we do concerning ourselves with what probably won't matter in months or years to come. King David knew God so he relied on God when his enemies pursued him. God gave us HIS most believed treasure in HIS son. Why don't we trust God that he wants that which is good for us? Why do we constantly fight for that which isn't good. Why do we choose to fight God? What are you fighting for? I pray we turn our hearts to God and HIS riches instead of worldly things that will eventually pass away.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPvTRvr34t4&feature=related
1Peter 5:6
6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you
Job 19:25-26 (New International Version)
25 I know that my Redeemer lives,
and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. [b]
26 And after my skin has been destroyed,
yet in [d] my flesh I will see God;
Ecclesiastes 7:14
In the day of prosperity be happy, But in the day of adversity consider-- God has made the one as well as the other So that man will not discover anything that will be after him.
Romans 8:28-37 NIV
More Than Conquerors
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[a] who[b] have been called according to his purpose. 29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
31What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written:
"For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."[c] 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
Psalms 33
16 No king is saved by the size of his army;
no warrior escapes by his great strength.
17 A horse is a vain hope for deliverance;
despite all its great strength it cannot save.
18 But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,
on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,
19 to deliver them from death
and keep them alive in famine.
20 We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD,
even as we put our hope in you.
Psalm 1
1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. 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.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPvTRvr34t4&feature=related
1Peter 5:6
6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you
Job 19:25-26 (New International Version)
25 I know that my Redeemer lives,
and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. [b]
26 And after my skin has been destroyed,
yet in [d] my flesh I will see God;
Ecclesiastes 7:14
In the day of prosperity be happy, But in the day of adversity consider-- God has made the one as well as the other So that man will not discover anything that will be after him.
Romans 8:28-37 NIV
More Than Conquerors
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,[a] who[b] have been called according to his purpose. 29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
31What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written:
"For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."[c] 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
Psalms 33
16 No king is saved by the size of his army;
no warrior escapes by his great strength.
17 A horse is a vain hope for deliverance;
despite all its great strength it cannot save.
18 But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,
on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,
19 to deliver them from death
and keep them alive in famine.
20 We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD,
even as we put our hope in you.
Psalm 1
1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. 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.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a key part to what I believe is essential to being a better man. My Father tells me to love my enemies. Matthew 5:43-48 states:
43 “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’[r] and hate your enemy. 44 But I say, love your enemies![s] Pray for those who persecute you! 45 In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. 46 If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. 47 If you are kind only to your friends,[t] how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. 48 But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect
But how hard is it to love those who hate you? How hard is it to be kind to those who would rejoice in your failures? We all have been hurt. We all have also hurt others? Can we ask for forgiveness yet fail to forgive? We can ask , but it will be much better if we forgive others then ask God who can forgive all for forgiveness.
Mark 11:25 States
25And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."[
And
1 John 1:8-9 states
"If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is
not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive
us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." NASB
Is it not our goal to be Christ like? One of my most memorable moments in the Bible is when Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Even though some may know what they are doing to us, can we not forgive them? Receiving pain yet giving joy is often hard to do, but whoever said living in this world would be easy? Be careful who you say you can’t forgive and those in which you judge. God can and often does use various people. Many would say Samson wasn’t that great of a man, but God had a purpose for him. Paul persecuted many, yet he became one of the greatest servants of God. Forgives may not repair a relationship or even change people. However, much can be learned through forgiveness. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 states that 4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Many of us long for love and a life that we can share with others. Never-the-less, friends, co-workers, enemies, and family will all do things to hurt us. How can we expect to receive forgiveness and love, when we can’t forgive and love? Jesus show us love through his sacrifice and forgiveness. I was on a plane a couple of weeks ago and there was a family (Father, Mother and two little children) sitting beside me. The mother was holding one of the children and he accidentally hit her. He was a little baby and the hit was not intentional. The mother had a brief moment but quickly forgave the child because of her love for him and knowing it was mistake. In this situation it was a little easy for the mother to forgive. However, what about the times when we have to forgive a co-worker who has lied to us or someone who we thought was a friend who has lied about us? It is not that easy to forgive them is it or the many others who may have caused us some pain? It should since we are taught to love all as we love ourselves. I’ll leave you with some of Matthew 18
Matthew 18
21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"
22Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.[f]
23"Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand talents[g] was brought to him. 25Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.
26"The servant fell on his knees before him. 'Be patient with me,' he begged, 'and I will pay back everything.' 27The servant's master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.
28"But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii.[h] He grabbed him and began to choke him. 'Pay back what you owe me!' he demanded.
29"His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, 'Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.'
30"But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31When the other servants saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed and went and told their master everything that had happened.
32"Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' 34In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.
35"This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."
43 “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’[r] and hate your enemy. 44 But I say, love your enemies![s] Pray for those who persecute you! 45 In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. 46 If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. 47 If you are kind only to your friends,[t] how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. 48 But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect
But how hard is it to love those who hate you? How hard is it to be kind to those who would rejoice in your failures? We all have been hurt. We all have also hurt others? Can we ask for forgiveness yet fail to forgive? We can ask , but it will be much better if we forgive others then ask God who can forgive all for forgiveness.
Mark 11:25 States
25And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."[
And
1 John 1:8-9 states
"If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is
not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive
us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." NASB
Is it not our goal to be Christ like? One of my most memorable moments in the Bible is when Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Even though some may know what they are doing to us, can we not forgive them? Receiving pain yet giving joy is often hard to do, but whoever said living in this world would be easy? Be careful who you say you can’t forgive and those in which you judge. God can and often does use various people. Many would say Samson wasn’t that great of a man, but God had a purpose for him. Paul persecuted many, yet he became one of the greatest servants of God. Forgives may not repair a relationship or even change people. However, much can be learned through forgiveness. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 states that 4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Many of us long for love and a life that we can share with others. Never-the-less, friends, co-workers, enemies, and family will all do things to hurt us. How can we expect to receive forgiveness and love, when we can’t forgive and love? Jesus show us love through his sacrifice and forgiveness. I was on a plane a couple of weeks ago and there was a family (Father, Mother and two little children) sitting beside me. The mother was holding one of the children and he accidentally hit her. He was a little baby and the hit was not intentional. The mother had a brief moment but quickly forgave the child because of her love for him and knowing it was mistake. In this situation it was a little easy for the mother to forgive. However, what about the times when we have to forgive a co-worker who has lied to us or someone who we thought was a friend who has lied about us? It is not that easy to forgive them is it or the many others who may have caused us some pain? It should since we are taught to love all as we love ourselves. I’ll leave you with some of Matthew 18
Matthew 18
21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"
22Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.[f]
23"Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand talents[g] was brought to him. 25Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.
26"The servant fell on his knees before him. 'Be patient with me,' he begged, 'and I will pay back everything.' 27The servant's master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.
28"But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii.[h] He grabbed him and began to choke him. 'Pay back what you owe me!' he demanded.
29"His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, 'Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.'
30"But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31When the other servants saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed and went and told their master everything that had happened.
32"Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' 34In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.
35"This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."
If God Delivered Daniel...
How hard is it to truly walk by faith and not by sight? Yeah, I hear it all the time, “I walk by faith and not by sight.” Yet we all get discourage. From Job and Peter in the Bible to everyone but one who has walked this earth. I’m currently in a situation that it’s hard to see any hope. I spend hours dealing with the situation and often have to deal with disrespect and unkindness within the situation. Like King David said when he was punished for one of his sins, “let me fall into the hands of the LORD, for his mercy is very great; but do not let me fall into the hands of men." Job even said, “though he slay me, yet will I hope in him.” How did these people have such strong face when being presented with so many difficulties? I remember after reading the book of Job, I wondered and wondered how Job could stand and still be faithful to God. Job suffered to the point that he long and asked for death. He was talked about by his friends. His worldly wealth was taken away. His wife even told him to forsake God. He lost his children and his health. How did this man have such strong faith? Well, I asked many people and was given the same answer; Job had a strong relationship with God. Job knew God. How I long to know God like that. Although my situation is not like that of Job, I am tormented (yeah strong word) by the difficulties that surround me. Yet, I have read so many stories about people who went through struggles yet there end result was one in which many would only dream. Take Joseph the dreamer. Did he not have it rough; sold into slavery by his brothers, sent to a distance land, put in jail and lied about, forgotten by those he helped, and etc. Yet Joseph story didn’t end when he was sent away or in jail. It continued to where he was placed second in charge of all of Egypt and the opportunity the save thousands of people including his family. This story along with the many other stories about many of the people in the Bible helps me to walk by faith and not by sight. Yeah, I stumble and fail. Those who know me have probably heard me complain about my situation. I’m human yet I serve a God that “is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” (Numbers 23:19) “Why should I feel discourage? Why should the shadows come? Why should my heart be lonely and long for Heaven and home when Jesus is my portion? My constant Friend is He. His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me.” Be encourage! In this song I like, it states, “if God delivered Daniel, what makes you think He won’t do the same for you?”
Thursday, June 3, 2010
All of My Help...
It’s amazing how many people abuse you and the situation when they think you need them or they believe they have some advantages over you. From friends to enemies, family members and co-workers, people often try to use their perceived advantages against you especially if they don’t like you or jealous of you because of their insecurities. Are we not taught to love each other as we love ourselves or better yet how God loves us? If not, we should. Here is a story I recently read:
Growing Good Corn
Author Unknown
There once was a farmer who grew award-winning corn. Each year he entered his corn in the state fair where it won a blue ribbon.
One year a newspaper reporter interviewed him and learned something interesting about how he grew it. The reporter discovered that the farmer shared his seed corn with his neighbors.
"How can you afford to share your best seed corn with your neighbors when they are entering corn in competition with yours each year?" the reporter asked.
"Why sir," said the farmer, "didn't you know? The wind picks up pollen from the ripening corn and swirls it from field to field. If my neighbors grow inferior corn, cross-pollination will steadily degrade the quality of my corn. If I am to grow good corn, I must help my neighbors grow good corn."
He is very much aware of the connectedness of life. His corn cannot improve unless his neighbor's corn also improves.
So it is with our lives. Those who choose to live in peace must help their neighbors to live in peace. Those who choose to live well must help others to live well, for the value of a life is measured by the lives it touches. And those who choose to be happy must help others to find happiness, for the welfare of each is bound up with the welfare of all.
The lesson for each of us is this: if we are to grow good corn, we must help our neighbors grow good corn.
Proverbs 11:24-25
24 One man gives freely, yet gains even more;
another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
25 A generous man will prosper;
he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed
Many feel that what they have has came from what good they have done; their education even though they may have cheating to graduate, their job even though they got it because of who they know or who knows them, etc. I have however, been taught and shown God’s grace. Should one not be proud of their accomplishments or not work hard to accomplish other things? NO! I believe we should be proud of the good in which we do, through the help of others and most importantly God. Never-the-less, one should recognize that:
16 No king is saved by the size of his army;
no warrior escapes by his great strength.
17 A horse is a vain hope for deliverance;
despite all its great strength it cannot save.
18 But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,
on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,
19 to deliver them from death
and keep them alive in famine.
20 We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD,
even as we put our hope in you.
Psalms 33
Therefore through my current and future struggles, my unfailing love rests upon the Lord Jesus my savior. I wait on the Lord knowing my Lord has never been late. All of my help comes from the Lord. Those who think they have me against the ropes. Those that think I’ve been knocked out. The battle has all ready been won, yet they still are fighting.
I remember when I was going through a rough time in my life and I had problem with a certain someone. My aunt told me be careful who I try to get back at or who I try to hurt for he/she may be a child of God and we know (at least I know) God protects his children. Look at Paul who became a great apostle of Jesus. Paul use to prosecute many but God had a plan and purpose for him. Paul was change. And although children of God may suffer, God’s works it out for the good. Therefore, we should love our brother and sister and know that like they may need us we may often need someone else. Proverbs 21:13 states that if a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.
Who knows the greatest commandment and the second? Well, if you don’t you will if you read the following. I pray we remember it!
Matthew 22:36-40 NIV
36"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4CL4jdEB8g
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJoRrs3MPw4&feature=related
Growing Good Corn
Author Unknown
There once was a farmer who grew award-winning corn. Each year he entered his corn in the state fair where it won a blue ribbon.
One year a newspaper reporter interviewed him and learned something interesting about how he grew it. The reporter discovered that the farmer shared his seed corn with his neighbors.
"How can you afford to share your best seed corn with your neighbors when they are entering corn in competition with yours each year?" the reporter asked.
"Why sir," said the farmer, "didn't you know? The wind picks up pollen from the ripening corn and swirls it from field to field. If my neighbors grow inferior corn, cross-pollination will steadily degrade the quality of my corn. If I am to grow good corn, I must help my neighbors grow good corn."
He is very much aware of the connectedness of life. His corn cannot improve unless his neighbor's corn also improves.
So it is with our lives. Those who choose to live in peace must help their neighbors to live in peace. Those who choose to live well must help others to live well, for the value of a life is measured by the lives it touches. And those who choose to be happy must help others to find happiness, for the welfare of each is bound up with the welfare of all.
The lesson for each of us is this: if we are to grow good corn, we must help our neighbors grow good corn.
Proverbs 11:24-25
24 One man gives freely, yet gains even more;
another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
25 A generous man will prosper;
he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed
Many feel that what they have has came from what good they have done; their education even though they may have cheating to graduate, their job even though they got it because of who they know or who knows them, etc. I have however, been taught and shown God’s grace. Should one not be proud of their accomplishments or not work hard to accomplish other things? NO! I believe we should be proud of the good in which we do, through the help of others and most importantly God. Never-the-less, one should recognize that:
16 No king is saved by the size of his army;
no warrior escapes by his great strength.
17 A horse is a vain hope for deliverance;
despite all its great strength it cannot save.
18 But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,
on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,
19 to deliver them from death
and keep them alive in famine.
20 We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD,
even as we put our hope in you.
Psalms 33
Therefore through my current and future struggles, my unfailing love rests upon the Lord Jesus my savior. I wait on the Lord knowing my Lord has never been late. All of my help comes from the Lord. Those who think they have me against the ropes. Those that think I’ve been knocked out. The battle has all ready been won, yet they still are fighting.
I remember when I was going through a rough time in my life and I had problem with a certain someone. My aunt told me be careful who I try to get back at or who I try to hurt for he/she may be a child of God and we know (at least I know) God protects his children. Look at Paul who became a great apostle of Jesus. Paul use to prosecute many but God had a plan and purpose for him. Paul was change. And although children of God may suffer, God’s works it out for the good. Therefore, we should love our brother and sister and know that like they may need us we may often need someone else. Proverbs 21:13 states that if a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.
Who knows the greatest commandment and the second? Well, if you don’t you will if you read the following. I pray we remember it!
Matthew 22:36-40 NIV
36"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4CL4jdEB8g
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJoRrs3MPw4&feature=related
Friday, May 14, 2010
Slavery Effects?
It would be hard to deny that slavery still has effects today. There is still racism, confusion, distrust and uneasiness when it comes to many people of different races. However, psychologically how does race affect blacks? For example, are some dark skinned blacks envious of light skinned because of self-hate/jealousy and/or the ways in which lighter skinned blacks where treated during slavery. I am what many would call a light skinned bother (although I claim to be dark skinned). In talking to many men who have darker skin than me, they suggest that lighter skinned blacks are still treated differently than darker skinned blacks. They suggest it is easier for light skinned blacks to get jobs or the acceptance of those who are not black. People not black trust lighter skinned blacks more than darker skinned they say. With this thought mentality, many dark skinned blacks are resentful and envious of lighter skinned blacks. This creates a break in unity of blacks in general and often puts brother against brother and sister against sister. In watching the movie Malcolm X, he felt his mother dated the darkest man she could find because she resented her light skinned and wanted to have dark skinned babies. When will this madness stop? I often do feel that there is disconnect and bitterness between many dark skinned and light skinned blacks. How can this disconnect be addressed? How can we be brought together rather being turned more and more apart?
I believe what God has made is beautiful! What we have done with it and to each other I believe is horrible. Can we overcome?
Deuteronomy 5:21
21 "You shall not covet your neighbor's wife. You shall not set your desire on your neighbor's house or land, his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
James 3:16
16For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
Proverbs 14:30
30 A heart at peace gives life to the body,
but envy rots the bones.
“Love sees sharply, hatred sees even more sharp, but Jealousy sees the sharpest for it is love and hate at the same time”
Arab Proverb quotes
I believe what God has made is beautiful! What we have done with it and to each other I believe is horrible. Can we overcome?
Deuteronomy 5:21
21 "You shall not covet your neighbor's wife. You shall not set your desire on your neighbor's house or land, his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
James 3:16
16For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
Proverbs 14:30
30 A heart at peace gives life to the body,
but envy rots the bones.
“Love sees sharply, hatred sees even more sharp, but Jealousy sees the sharpest for it is love and hate at the same time”
Arab Proverb quotes
Turn the Other Cheek or Stand and Fight?
I was taught to turn the other cheek yet do not let people run over me. However, to know when to fight and when to turn the other cheek is often hard for me to determine. In reading about David in the Bible, I remember David being a fighter yet I also remember David turning the other cheek on many occasions (especially with God's anointed - Saul). I truly enjoy reading about David and the struggles that he went through because I feel I relate to them. I can not relate in the sense that I am running for my life (although it may seem that way sometimes), but in the sense that I like many others have struggles and battles to fight. I will say at times it seems as though people want to destroy me even though I have done nothing to them or can’t think of anything I could have done to make them hate me. The Bible also talks a lot about anger:
Proverbs 20
3 It is to a man's honor to avoid strife,
but every fool is quick to quarrel.
Proverbs 19
19 A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty;
if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Matthew 5:46-48 NIV
46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect
As a result, I try my best not to get angry; angry with people or situations. Never-the-less, I’m human. I can not understand why we (notice I say we) can’t do better; be better, treat each other better and etc. Why should I worry about my bother or sister (those in which I should love and should love me)? Enemies I can understand having to stand up to, but those in which suppose to have my back, I can not understand having to fight with.
Getting back to the question of whether to turn the other cheek and stand and fight, how does one knows which to do? Peter even asked Jesus how many times he should forgive his bother when the bother sings against him. “Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:22)
So what do you think?
Proverbs 20
3 It is to a man's honor to avoid strife,
but every fool is quick to quarrel.
Proverbs 19
19 A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty;
if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Matthew 5:46-48 NIV
46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect
As a result, I try my best not to get angry; angry with people or situations. Never-the-less, I’m human. I can not understand why we (notice I say we) can’t do better; be better, treat each other better and etc. Why should I worry about my bother or sister (those in which I should love and should love me)? Enemies I can understand having to stand up to, but those in which suppose to have my back, I can not understand having to fight with.
Getting back to the question of whether to turn the other cheek and stand and fight, how does one knows which to do? Peter even asked Jesus how many times he should forgive his bother when the bother sings against him. “Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:22)
So what do you think?
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Leaving the Nest
I had a talk with a co-worker today about when is the best time to leave home and be on your own. She is of a different culture than my own and wondered why I live alone and outside of my parents house. I told her that I needed to grow and that there can often be conflict in the house when their are multiple adults, especially if there are multiple men in the house. However, she felt that many lessons could be learn and financially people can do better if they stay at home longer. I told her that some lessons can be learned through experience and having to make decisions without parents being their to monitor and at times make the decisions for us. I also communicated to her that I believe some mistakes need to be made in order for growing to be accomplished. Parents won't be around forever or all the time, so what happens when they aren't around and decisions have to be made? So my question is when is the best time for someone to move out? What age range would you say is the best time? What lessons should be taught to someone before he/she leaves home?
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Favorite Movie Moments
For those that know me, know how much I'm into movies. I like all types of movies from The Notebook, to Braveheart, The Matrix, Star Wars, Predator, Big Fish so on and so fourth. Movies have a way of sparking various emotions; anger, sadness, pain and etc. I think of various moments in movies that has sparked emotions in me. A Time to Kill - Anger, The Notebook - hope/love/etc, John Q - Strength/courage/frustration, Rocky - Love/encouragement/etc and too many more to name. Below is a link to a movie moment that really stands out. It is a moment of a father telling his son about an important lesson in life - It's not often about how hard you hit, but how hard you can get hit and keep on moving forward. Check it out and let me know so of your favorite movie moments.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c49Ef5Bpzd8&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c49Ef5Bpzd8&feature=related
Friday, April 30, 2010
Poetry
Poetry is really interesting to me. Well, at least the kind I can understand :). I started writing poetry about 12 years ago right around the time of the Love Jones movie. I believe that movie got a lot of people to try to use poetry to express themselves to the opposite sex. Anyway, I thought I would try to use blogging as a avenue to see what people think of some poems I've written. Like Erykah Badu said in one of her songs, "I'm sensitive about my sh_t so whoever reads them don't be too hard on me. However, I would like everyone's honest opinions.
The Victory
Up against the world
Back against the wall
I see that sea that must be crossed
That mountain looks pretty tall
My foes are all around
They look to see me stumble
Those friends I thought had my back
They don’t
But God is first
Therefore I don’t have to shuffle
Say what they want to say
Build ditches for me to fall in
Their work is useless
God detests their sin
Like David I will prevail
Like Samson
through God I’m strong
Like Daniel I will be saved
Do you not know Jesus is my Lord
So smile is what I choose to do
Laugh when others may cry
My back maybe against the wall
But I fear the ONE who has authority over my soul
Not just my life
Still Standing
You’re still standing
Still on your feet
It’s amazing
You calm the victory even though they say it’s defeat
You have them beat
They must not know who’s on your side
A merciful God
Not a man, who lives in disguise
Not a man who lies
Watch how HE supplies
You will be filled with abundance
Your cup will over flow
Through the rainy days
Through their sleepless nights
You’re still standing
Through this pain
Here in this storm is where you strive
You’ve been through the fire and you survived
The impossible is possible
Cause of our God
Still standing
I applaud
Before pasting the next poem, let me just write that it was written a long time ago
Untitled
I can’t move mountains
Can’t swim the ocean or sea
I couldn’t love them
I can’t even love me
I reach for the stars
knowing
they’ll never be reached
I reach for your heart
For it, will I forever seek
Is this how it should be
It’s not good for a man to be alone
So why am I forever lonely
I wasn’t born with wings
Can’t fly or soar
Can’t leap over tall buildings
So I ask
why should I long for more
For my home I’ve searched
For my dream I longed
On my knees I pray
On my knees I’m reborn
I wake and tell the mountain to move
Tomorrow I will swim the ocean or sea
Depending on the night, I’ll choose the star
I’ve choosen to love me
I may have a little longer to wait
Never-the-less, I know with her I will be
I’ve realized with God
there is no impossibility
The Victory
Up against the world
Back against the wall
I see that sea that must be crossed
That mountain looks pretty tall
My foes are all around
They look to see me stumble
Those friends I thought had my back
They don’t
But God is first
Therefore I don’t have to shuffle
Say what they want to say
Build ditches for me to fall in
Their work is useless
God detests their sin
Like David I will prevail
Like Samson
through God I’m strong
Like Daniel I will be saved
Do you not know Jesus is my Lord
So smile is what I choose to do
Laugh when others may cry
My back maybe against the wall
But I fear the ONE who has authority over my soul
Not just my life
Still Standing
You’re still standing
Still on your feet
It’s amazing
You calm the victory even though they say it’s defeat
You have them beat
They must not know who’s on your side
A merciful God
Not a man, who lives in disguise
Not a man who lies
Watch how HE supplies
You will be filled with abundance
Your cup will over flow
Through the rainy days
Through their sleepless nights
You’re still standing
Through this pain
Here in this storm is where you strive
You’ve been through the fire and you survived
The impossible is possible
Cause of our God
Still standing
I applaud
Before pasting the next poem, let me just write that it was written a long time ago
Untitled
I can’t move mountains
Can’t swim the ocean or sea
I couldn’t love them
I can’t even love me
I reach for the stars
knowing
they’ll never be reached
I reach for your heart
For it, will I forever seek
Is this how it should be
It’s not good for a man to be alone
So why am I forever lonely
I wasn’t born with wings
Can’t fly or soar
Can’t leap over tall buildings
So I ask
why should I long for more
For my home I’ve searched
For my dream I longed
On my knees I pray
On my knees I’m reborn
I wake and tell the mountain to move
Tomorrow I will swim the ocean or sea
Depending on the night, I’ll choose the star
I’ve choosen to love me
I may have a little longer to wait
Never-the-less, I know with her I will be
I’ve realized with God
there is no impossibility
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Quotes
I am big on quotes. Quotes from the Bible or on love and life. I often send quotes to people to inspire and teach. Below are some quotes I am like a lot. What are some of yours?
Adultery
Proverbs 2
16 Wisdom will save you from the immoral woman,
from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman.
17 She has abandoned her husband
and ignores the covenant she made before God.
18 Entering her house leads to death;
it is the road to the grave.[b]
19 The man who visits her is doomed.
He will never reach the paths of life.
Anger
Proverbs 25:21,22
21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;
if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.
A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted.
Change
It is also tradition for tradition to change
Confusion
One who asks a question is a fool for five minutes; one who does not ask a question remains a fool forever.
Controversy
Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down
Death
For death begins with life's first breath and life begins at touch of death
John14
1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God [a]; trust also in me. 2 My Father's house has plenty of room; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going."
5 Thomas said to him, "Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?"
6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know [b] my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him."
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Bible Questions
I had a talk with my current supervisor a few weeks ago. He often sees me reading the Bible at work. He asked me some questions about why are there so many different religious and can Jesus can be found in other religions. I remember how in the Bible it says to always be able to give an account of the hope I have with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15. Many questions he had I have had in my past. Since I don't know scripture by heart, I struggled to answer his questions in a way where he had some peace. I had peace about what he was asking about, but I could tell he was still lost and confused. As a result, I begin constructing a list of hard questions I believe many have about the Bible. Below are the questions. Let me state that I believe some answers truly have to be prayed about and sought after from God.
7. Are there books missing from the Bible? If so what are they and why were they not included?
8. Is everyone born with free will? Did Pharoh (during the time of Moses) have free will when God hardened his heart?
9. Why exactly were Job friends wrong?
As I read the Bible and think more, this list will grow. However, I'm curious as to people responses to these question. I would list a bunch of scripture regarding this questions, but I doubt many would read through them all. So what are your thoughts?
1. Why are there so many different religious? Is Jesus in other religions such as Muslim, Hindu and etc?
2. Hoe can one know he is saved?
3. In Genesis Chapter 6, who are the "sons of God?" Do angels and demons live among humans?
4.How can some say, he or she is going to Hell? Should one say this?
5. In 1 Samuel 16, and evil spirit from the Lord torments Saul. Is God love and how and why would evil come from God?
6. When is it okay for a man or woman to get a divorce? After a divorce can one remarry?7. Are there books missing from the Bible? If so what are they and why were they not included?
8. Is everyone born with free will? Did Pharoh (during the time of Moses) have free will when God hardened his heart?
9. Why exactly were Job friends wrong?
As I read the Bible and think more, this list will grow. However, I'm curious as to people responses to these question. I would list a bunch of scripture regarding this questions, but I doubt many would read through them all. So what are your thoughts?
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