That Last Minute Gift

Here's a great last minute gift. Everyone needs someone to believe in them and to have their back to the end. Give someone that GIFT. #TheGiftOfYou

Checking the List

It is that Time of Year - Making a List and Checking it Twice! Hey guess what? I just checked and I am thrilled to  share with you that:

• I'm blessed
• I'm favored
• I'm free
• I have gifts
• I have peace
• I have an inheritance
• I have a Savior
• I've been forgiven
• I've been redeemed
• I've been cleansed
• I will worship
• I will witness
• I will proclaim His Word

Lastly, I'd like to share with you that there is plenty of room for you to place your name (life) on this list!

Jesus IS the reason for the season!

God's Favor and You

Monday's Meditation: God's Favor and You.

Think about the awesomeness of God. When you take a moment to consider who He is, you then begin to realize that we don't have to have everything going in our favor, to be in the favor of God. Being favored by God doesn't prevent stuff from happening but His Favor does prevail the  believer through the stuff that does happen.

So, may we stop trying to figure it out, because God is already working it out!

The Local Church "Scorecard"

If you were to complete a "Scorecard" for your Local Church, which areas would you score well and which would you not score well?

Examples: Sermons, Worship, Discipleship, Community Presence, Children/Youth/Young Adult ministries, Hospitality, Care, Nurturing, Outreach, etc. 
Scale: A+ thru Fail

Poll Question

Church Goers, "Yes" or "No", is your local church meeting your needs?

One of the responses that I have received is that the church is not meeting the needs of the people, but merely meeting the needs of the church. How do you feel about that statement?

Feedback - Why We DON'T Go to Church?

I'm still reading the input from my Post yesterday  (Monday's Meditation) on the Study that was started last night titled, "Why We DON'T Go to Church".

Very enlightening feedback, insight and commentary. Please keep it coming because I truly believe  that in order for The Church to be about it, The Church must know about it!

Send me an email at: emailkeithwhite@gmail.com

Your input is confidential and will only be used to drive/ignite discussion with the sole purpose of helping the church understand/become better aware of the needs of the community in which it resides.

Thanks in advance and I look forward to your feedback.

Empty Churches - Why Aren't We Going?

Monday's Meditation: Tonight I'm shifting Bible Study from "Why We Go to Church", which has been a rich study over the last 12 weeks. Tonight we'll flip the script and begin looking at "Why We DON'T Go to Church?"

Please consider sharing your thoughts on why either yourself or share your perception of other's reasons for (1) being previously a church goer, but no longer attends; (2) those of us that only attend during special events, but will not commit to becoming a regular attendee; (3) and those of us who have never stepped through the doors of the Church.

How can Church be "The Church" in your community to meet the needs of the residents, offer fellowship, and be more relevant in your neighboorhoods? What are people looking for in a Church... what are their expectations?

Has your church experienced a decline and if so, what would be your observation as to why?

Lastly, what can YOU "do" about the decline?

When considering these questions, please know that I'm referring to the physical and the spiritual aspects of church.

I'm Thankful for a PROMISE OF NEXT!

Thankful Thursday: I'm Thankful for a PROMISE OF "NEXT"!

All of this week , I've been posting about difficulties because we have all faced them from time to time. Whether it be finanical, relational, emotional, professional or physical life does deal us with what seems to be some devastating blows and we find ourselves knocked down for the count.

Yep, there he is, the Devil starting to count down from ten so that he can declare victory by a knockout...BUT in the name of Jesus, I DECLARE NEXT!

You see, there's still some fight left in me, it's only round 7 of a 10 round fight devil! You've had me down before, but I got back up; you've even hit me when I was down, but I got back on my feet; However, this time I'm yelling "NEXT" because the "NEXT" or remaining rounds will belong to me. You see, I'm calling on my Big Brother Jesus who takes care of all of my concerns and problems; I'm going to be strengthen and equipped to carry-on by The Comforter for He knows what I need and He knows how to give it to me and I'm also telling my "Daddy" and He will not tolerate any of your nonsense against His children!

These last 3 rounds you will be utterly put out, put down, decommissioned and totally destroyed! Get ready, because I'm tired of being knocked down and setback; I'm done being beat-up and abused; I'm sick of being sick and in debt; I'm done with being your your footstool...I'm saying it right now...NEXT!!! Yea, coming NEXT is a complete reversal, and guess what? I'm gonna sit these NEXT round out!

“The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.” (Acts 2:34-35)

RECOVERY

Wednesday's Word: Recovery

In contrast to how the world would view blessings by looking upon those who have much wealth, much happiness, resources, health and a career, Jesus speaks concerning those followers of His that are the exact opposite.

Jesus speaks of those who have struggled in this life, but kept their faith; about those who lacked wealth and resources but relied, trusted and believed in Him; those who wept over loved ones, situations and circumstances but placed the same on the Altar before the Lord in prayer.

Jesus speaks of a time that you who have remained in Him will recover; a time when things will be reversed; a time when you will rest in Him from all that this world has dealt you.

Jesus speaks to everyone who loves Him more than their worldly status and possessions; those who obey His Word; seek His face and operate according to His commandment to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself."

Yes, Jesus says that there will be a RECOVERY and if He said it, I believe it, and that settles it. Amen!

“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now,    for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh." (Luke 6:20-21)

Worrying Births Trouble for the Worrier

Tuesday's Truth: Worrying Births Trouble for the Worrier!

The word "Worry" literally means to have a troubled state of mind. If you're worried about what you're wearing, eating or drinking...about what you have or don't have materially, then your personality will be all caught up in what you are worried about and therefore your personality will take on the attributes of your state of mind or simply put, you'll find yourself in trouble.

Trouble of feeling defeated, of being an outcast, not worthy, cheated, ignored and when we reach this state of trouble we question God, His supremacy...even His existence! We stop praying, we stop fasting, His Holy Word yields no comfort, we dispise those who have what we don't have, we compare how the world is flourishing and how Christians are struggling to keep pace.

In the current situation that is gripping us with worry, we tend to forget about all of the situations where God has shown Himself to be Strong and Mighty; where God made a way out of no way; when God said yes after man said no; when God provided, sustained and kept you before when the provisions that you thought you had came up short.

This same God is still on the Throne, still in control, still loves you, is still providing for you, is still answering prayers and still developing and delivering you from all of your troubles (worries).

Jesus speaks to our worrying by reminding us that we were created in His image and likeness...greater than the birds of the air or the grass of the fields, yet both are cared for by God, "Are you not much more valuable than they?"

Read for yourself what Jesus says to us about worrying:

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?  Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?  Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life  ?  “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.  Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.  If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?  So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’  For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.  But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:25-34)

God Will Keep His Promise During Life's Difficult Moments?

Monday's Meditation: God Will Keep His Promise During Life's Difficult Moments?

The difficulties of the present moment oftentimes overshadows  the reality of God's promise, and people doubt that God would fulfill His promises. When we trust our own efforts instead of Christ's power, we, too, are in danger of turning back, letting go and allowing doubt to take over.

We must know that our own efforts are never adequate; only Christ can see us through.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV)

Happy Thanksgiving

I pray your joy, love and happiness during this season of gathering, fellow-shipping, eating and remembering all that God has done! Love each other like never before!

I'm going to do the same; I won't be in touch again until December 1st.

Mom and Dad, here we come...

Week of Thanksgiving (Tuesday)

Week of Thanksgiving  (Tuesday): Being Thankful is a Choice and today I choose to be Thankful.

Last night while I slept, God was sending forth a miracle!  Baby Aryn Williams was born at 11:05pm to my Niece Alicia and Nephew Jerome Williams.

Also, I offer Thanks for my parents who today are celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary!  Happy Anniversary to two of the most beautiful people who I have the privilege to call Dad and Mom.

So, what you see on the outside (the huge smile, joy and love)...although it looks good, it fails in comparison as to how full my soul is on the inside!

Truth is: I'm going to get out of this bed and go to my comfy chair and gladly (perhaps even tearfully), offer my prayers of Thanksgiving as my heart and soul is full of Thankfulness!

Oh yea, Thankfulness is a choice, "And when you offer a sacrifice of Thanksgiving to the Lord, offer it of your own free will." (Leviticus 22:29 NKJV)

Be Blessed and Be Faithful!

Week of Thanksgiving (Monday)

Week of Thanksgiving  (Monday): Let's start the day with a THANKFUL attitude, and end the day with the same.

We have so much to be thankful for and this week in which we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us be mindful of all that The Lord has done, is doing and shall continue to do for us and for our families.

Let's let go of "STUFF" and let's let love and gratitude be in our hearts and homes during this season.

"It is good to give THANKS to The Lord, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night" (Psalm 92:1-2 NKJV)

Stay the Course

Finishing Strong Friday: Stay the Course Saints!

The anointing is in you; the anointing is teaching you; the anointing is real, is true and is not a lie...so, Stay the Course and let's keep on sharing and spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ! It has been promised that if we do Stay the Course that we will Finish Strong!!!

"The anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him." (I John 2:27 NKJV)

Have a great weekend!

Thankful :)

Thankful Thursday: Thankful for a Praying Family and Friends!

Ever wake-up, pour your coffee and then just stare at it thinking that once you sip it, your day will start? Well, my coffee has just been sitting in front of me and I've not sipped it because I'm not ready for my day to start...I really want to go back to bed!

Pray that I get out of this house and into the office...LOL!!!

True Wealth

Wednesday's Word: True Wealth is Measured by What We've Invested in God.

Anything obtained outside of God will one day cease to exist, but the true riches in Heaven that have been stored up for us will remain for all eternity. What defines our success? Is it money, position, posessions or reputation?

I pray that we invest and become rich in The Lord!

“I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You’re not cold, you’re not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You’re stale. You’re stagnant. You make me want to vomit. You brag, ‘I’m rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone,’ oblivious that in fact you’re a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless. “Here’s what I want you to do: Buy your gold from me, gold that’s been through the refiner’s fire. Then you’ll be rich. Buy your clothes from me, clothes designed in Heaven. You’ve gone around half-naked long enough. And buy medicine for your eyes from me so you can see, really see. “The people I love, I call to account—prod and correct and guide so that they’ll live at their best. Up on your feet, then! About face! Run after God! (Revelation 3:15-19 MSG)

Jesus Got Your Back!

Tuesday's Truth: Jesus Got Your Back!!

Satan wants to steal from us, but Jesus restores. Satan wants to kill us, but Jesus protects us. Satan wants to destroy every area of our lives. Yet Jesus wants to Save every area of our lives; to Save everyone in our lives and He wants to restore every area of our lives...to heal us, to keep us, to comfort us, to free us and to love us...for all of this life and for all eternity!

Although Satan tries to intimidate us, Jesus says, “I've got your back.”

Jesus came that we might have life that produces blessings, which is the opposite of stealing, killing and destroying. Jesus came to prosper us and to build us up!

"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (John 10:10 NKJV)

Do One Thing Today for God

Monday's Meditation: God has done great things for each and every one of us. What one thing will you do for Him today?

He doesn't expect everyone to be Preachers. However,  I do know that He doesn't want anyone to be a Hypocrite!!!

Hope

Finishing Strong Friday: Be strong today no matter what you may be facing. You are not having to endure anything that someone else hasn't already made it through. You will overcome your situation if you put your hope, trust and faith in The Lord.

"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope." (Romans 15:4)

WORD!

EXPECTATION!

Wednesday's Word: EXPECTATION

When Christ returns for His own, He comes:

- as the Savior to redeem— Rom. 8:23
- as the Uniter to gather— 1 Thess. 4:13- 18
- as the Blessed Hope to gladden— Titus 2:13
- as the Transformer to glorify— Phil. 3:20, 21
- as the Lover to present— Eph. 5:27
- as the Lord to reward— 1 Cor. 3:14; 4:5 and
- as the Friend to receive to Himself - John 14:3

YES, GREAT EXPECTATION FOR HIS RETURN!

Power Up

Monday's  Meditation : Are you laying in bed dreading the start of this work week? Are you feeling lathargic because it's dark when you go out and dark again before you get back? Are you succoming to procrastination...putting off what should be done now, yet you will put it off for some later time?

Don't Do This - BE ENERGIZED for Life and Service; GOD SUPPLIES US WITH HIS ENERGY!

"Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God’s energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure. Do everything readily and cheerfully—no bickering, no second-guessing allowed! Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God. Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I’ll have good cause to be proud of you on the day that Christ returns. You’ll be living proof that I didn’t go to all this work for nothing." (Philippians 2:12-16 MSG)

Get Going!

Finishing Strong Friday: PREACH, TEACH and REACH!!

Go out and do what you do. Do it well; Do it boldly; Do it in confidence; and Do it wherever you find yourself.

God has called you, God has anointed you, and God will protect you!

God says, “Do not touch My anointed ones, And do My prophets no harm.” (I Chronicles 16:22 NKJV)

Thankful for The Word of God that Speaks Continuously and Clearly

Thankful Thursday: I'm thankful for The Word of God that constantly speaks to me in all situations and at all times!

On this rainy Thursday I'm thinking that Noah and his entire family remained DRY and SAFE because of his obedience to God. Can you imagine what God will do for you and yours for YOUR OBEDIENCE? Hmmmm....

That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9 NLT)

Truth not Lies

Wednesday's Word: Since "The Truth" has set you free, so shall you live in truth, operate in the truth, reflect truth in your dealings with others, speak the truth out of your mouth and hold on to the truth for the rest of your days...then you will remain free.

Lies are of the devil for he is the father of ALL LIES and in him there is NO TRUTH!

When I say that we are free, I'm saying that at one time you and I were living a lie and we were under the power of the ultimate Liar who tried to convince us that we were of no value...BUT GOD has both shown us and has delivered us by His Truth which is Christ Jesus!

Know today that in Christ, you have been reborn; having put off the old and have put on the new or we have put on "The Truth" because "As He is, so are we in this world."

"Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him" (Colossians 3:9-10 NKJV)

"Kaelyn's Story"

These pictures are Kaelyn's notes from Bible Study last night. I was teaching from Psalm 103 and this is what she wrote, Haha, I just had to share:

Kaelyn's Story

Today is  November 3rd. 2014 and Erika is over and we are now at Bible Study. My Dad preaches Bible Study he is really good at it. And when he was preaching he asked me why I was smiling. And I said nothing. It was funny 😁!! Now my Dad is talking about dancing. Now he is reading a scripture in the Bible App on his phone. Now he is talking to everyone about religion = Christian. Wow, this is really confusing!! So hard to understand. Now he is talking about East and West, North and South and he is talking about little children saying in these days how much do you love me. Now he is talking about people getting punished. That is not really nice = my opinion. And when I get home I have to clean my room and clean my desk, soooooo boring, sooooo boring, WOW that is really boring.

Remain Consistent in Inconsistencies

Monday's Meditation: Remain Consistent during the Seasons of Inconsistency!

See how changeable the times are, and yet how unchangeable? Meaning the season of warmth and growth has given way to the chill and ceasing of growth. The course of nature is always changing just like the course of our lives. Yet what is consistent is the inconsistency of nature and life...we will always have change/seasons.

There are times when it is hot and times when it is cold; time to plant and time to gather; a time to sleep and a time to be awake.

One thing that can be consistent in this life of inconsistencies is our Faith, Hope and Love for The Lord. As it is a truth that we will go through seasons of plenty and seasons of lack; seasons of wellness and seasons of sickness; seasons of loneliness and seasons of fellowship...one thing that will be consistent is the consistency of the Love of God in your life and for your life!

Our life's seasons shall not cease while we are still in this world, yet the love of God is consistent for every season and for ALL ETERNITY!

“While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.” (Genesis 8:22 NKJV)

The King of Glory is WHO HE IS!!

Finishing Strong Friday: We finish strong when we know WHO the King of Glory is!

Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, The Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O you gates! Lift up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory. (Psalms 24:8-10 NKJV)

Thankful Thursday

Thankful Thursday: EVERYTHING and EVERYONE that I can truly call mine is under one roof. Keith Jr. arrived home safe from work late last night/early this morning, Kyle came home from work worn out tired and went straight to bed and Kaelyn (again) joined my wife and I in our bed last night.

It feels good to KNOW that EVERYONE and EVERYTHING that we hold precious is within a whisper of our saying, "I Love You".

Thank you Lord for these that you have put in my care. Help me to be to them as you are to me...present, loving, trustworthy and yes longsuffering AND forgiving. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Speak God's Word OUT LOUD!

Wednesday's Word: Speak of God OUT LOUD to YOURSELF Today!

There are times when you just need to open your Bible, not to study, but to live how God says you are to live. SPEAK His Word OUT LOUD when you read a promise, come to a truth and when you need strength.

In John 17:17 it says, "Sanctify them with thy truth, thy Word is truth."

Today, I speak to my day that because I have God on my mind and in my heart that there shall be peace for my day...not just peace, but PERFECT PEACE! Hallelujah!!

"You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on  You, Because he trusts in You." (Isaiah 26:3 NKJV)

Oh Yea - STILL THANKFUL!!

Thankful Thursday: Oh Yea, STILL THANKFUL!!

I got news from my mother that she fell and broke her foot on Tuesday. I woke up this morning with pain in my knee in which I have had surgery some years ago. Others in the family are also going through their own illnesses and yet I'm STILL THANKFUL!

In this life we all are going through some things. In this life there will be sicknesses, pains and diseases. However, I KNOW that these are only light and temporary afflictions because our God will rescue all that calls on His Holy name!

You see, before I leave this house, I'm gonna call on His Holy name! I'm going to speak out loud concerning my mother, those who are feeling sick, those of us who are dealing with other health issues and yes, I will speak out loud about my soreness in my knee this morning. THEN, I'm going to get moving, get at it and get to it...because I KNOW that my God has heard my prayer and He is ALREADY moving, ALREADY at it, and ALREADY getting to it.

I'M THANKFUL that my confidence is in God; therefore, I can (and will) do ALL THINGS through Christ who strengthens me!!

The Word of God

Wednesday's Word is The WORD of God, get some! It's Mmm-Mmm Good!

"It has been written, Man shall not live and be upheld and sustained by bread alone, but by every Word that comes forth from the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4)

Roll With It!

Tuesday's Truth: I'm Rolling With It and NOT Looking Back!!

The Lord has brought me a mighty long way, GLORY HALLELUJAH!!!

These are Those

Monday's Meditation: "These are Those" 

There are some who have woken up this morning with confidence, vision and on a mission to excel.

- These are those who are not fearful, hopeless or stressed by things or situations.
- These are those that aren't looking over their shoulder in expectation of something dreadful, but are looking ahead for favor
- These are those who are enthusiasts and not worriers
- These are those who pray and stay vs. cry and lie or smoke and joke
- These are those that shout HALLELUJAH and not those who say "oh to hell with it"

Are you reborn? Are you one of them? Are you ready for today?

Let's do this!!

"For whatever is born of God is victorious over the world" (1 John 5:4a)

Believe, Behold, Become!!

Finishing Strong Friday: I've been up putting final thoughts on my weekend sermon "Believe, Behold, Become". Here is the scripture:

"Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because AS HE IS, SO ARE WE IN THIS WORLD." (1 John 4:15-17)

Just think on those last few words of this Scripture "AS HE IS, SO ARE WE IN THIS WORLD"...."Believe, Behold and Become"!!!!

Thankful Thursday

Thankful Thursday: Sometimes I just don't feel like being thankful...THEN I realize that although I slept, I was awakened this morning. THEN  I realize that although I didn't have anything to do with it, my breathing was regulated while I was asleep. THEN when I got up this morning and "walked" into every room in my house...I began to count my blessings (Keith Jr. Kyle, Kaelyn and Kimberly).THEN I checked my calendar for the appointments that I will have to make and some that I will have to reschedule at the Job that I am blessed to have.  THEN I set out my clothes and started my shower. THEN I packed my lunch and loaded my Portfolio with all that I will need for this day and placed them in my car, in my garage, on my property....again, that I have been blessed to possess!  

My reality is that I serve The Almighty God and He blesses me over and over again; therefore, my reality far outweighs my feelings.  Oftentimes, we just need to get over ourselves and look beyond how we feel and take in our reality.  

Once I've gotten past how I felt this morning,  I couldn't help but give Praise with THANKSGIVING in my heart for all that The Lord has done for me!

God Already Blessed Today!

Tuesday's Truth: Today I have a ton of work, decisions to make and meetings to both lead and attend. But I know that God has already given me everything that I need to succeed today.

So, I'll simply wish you all a GOOD MORNING, knowing that God has prepared you for your day and has prepared your day for you!

Have a God Day!

Hard Work Pays Off

Finishing Strong Friday: STRAIGHT TALK - Hard Work Pays Off!!

Know this, "Gimme" is dead! In order to be elevated, we must be prepared for the elevation. Too many people complain about not being elevated when they have shown no loyalty, commitment, or dedication. Time sheets are falsified with 8 hour days knowing full well that at best, you only put in 5 hours per day for the 3 out of 5 days you worked!

Doing the absolute minimum, lack of availability and lack of participation all equates to being unprepared, unreliable and unpredictable and eliminates you instead of elevating you to the next level of potential and responsibility.

"Gimme" a chance; "Gimme" the promotion; "Gimme" the responsibility.... Hey, how about, "GIMME" A BREAK!!!

Don't be the one counting on "Gimme" to get you to the next level, get yourself prepared; get motivated; get involved; get to work and when you're there, actually do the work. Trust me, you'll be noticed and in time, you'll be elevated.

Finish Strong by preparing yourself for the opportunities that are waiting for you!!

"There is profit in hard work, but mere talk leads to poverty." (Proverbs 14:23)

"Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." (Proverbs 12:24)

From the Emergency Room yo the Recovery Room!!

Thankful Thursday: From the Emergency Room to the Recovery Room!

We must stop the hemorrhaging of hopes and dreams; of family values; financial stability; healthy and sustainable relationships; and losing those we love to the traps and snares of this world!

Many of us have been and some of us are still wounded by life and lifestyle choices. Well, I'm here to tell you that you have not reached the end. There is a Great Physician who will not only fix you up, but He heals you to the uttermost!

Today, we get hurt, sick or ill and we go to an Emergency Room, wait for very long periods of time, receive a quick fix and go home hoping that are affliction is over. However, the treatment oftentimes is only temporary as it addresses the immediate reason you have gone to get assistance, but it does nothing for the underlying disease, hurt or affliction.

Well, Jesus isn't in the business of "patch work", Band-Aids or temporary pain relief. Jesus receives every patient, no waiting room, instant access to The Great Physician and before you can say Thank You Lord, you're already in RECOVERY!!

Know this Healer; Know this Great Physician; Know THE SAVIOR and LOVER of our souls and RECOVER...RIGHT NOW!!

Thank you Jesus for doing what no other has done or can do! His Word leaves no doubt about what I'm sharing with you this morning and by the way, I'm a recipient!!!

"I am the Lord that Healeth thee." (Exodus 15:26)

Rejoice ANYWAY!

Wednesday's Word: Rejoice ANYWAY!!

Even when things may look to be at their worse...God is still in the blessing business.

Even when others have given up on you...God is still in the blessing business.

Even though you've run out of money, resources and time...God is still in the blessing business.

Keep your faith in The Lord, trust Him in the rough times and obey Him during the times of plenty. God is STILL God...don't forget...He ALWAYS will have the final say in your situation!

Today, everything in your life may not look the way you want it to, but a time is coming when God, who sees all and knows all about your struggle, is going to say enough! So with this in mind, REJOICE ANYWAY!

"Though the fig tree doesn’t bloom, and there’s no produce on the vine; though the olive crop withers, and the fields don’t provide food; though the sheep is cut off from the pen, and there is no cattle in the stalls; I will rejoice in the Lord . I will rejoice in the God of my deliverance." (Habakkuk 3:17-18)

You WERE But Now You ARE!

Tuesday's Truth: You cannot be who you were and who you are at the same time!

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV)

You're Gonna Succeed!

Monday's Meditation: Why Are Your Haters ALWAYS In Your Face?

The reason God keeps our enemies close is because He wants them near enough to see what a miracle looks like it! Yea, I said that right!! Just the mere fact that you got up again today in spite of all that they tried to do to put you down on yesterday is nothing less then a miracle.

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)

Think about this: one of the sweetest victories you and I could ever accomplish in life is to succeed in the face of those who want us to fail. Get back up and get back to it...YOU'RE GONNA SUCCEED!!

Love and Happiness - Part 5

Love and Happiness - Part 5

Finishing Strong Friday: Turn It Up!!

You have been joined together under God, don't let anyone or anything separate your love for each other. So TURN IT UP...turn up the love; turn up the respect; turn up the romance; the sweet talk; the support; and the understanding.

Turn down jealousy; conflicts; competition; hurtful words; negativity of all kinds; and unhealthy influences outside of your marriage covenant.

REMEMBER - The marriage covenant is between You, Your Spouse and God!

Oh and lastly, it's Friday, TURN UP THIS SONG..."Love and Happiness" (below Link), this is how this week's series got started and this is how we'll finish it!

"What God has joined together, let no one separate.” (Mark 10:9)

Al Green Love and Happiness: 
http://youtu.be/rqqAnjY2Rmo

Love and Happiness - Part 4

Love and Happiness - Part 4

Thankful Thursday: "True Love Just Acts Like This!!"

As I lay here beside my wife in this very early hour of the morning, I am reflecting...no, actually I'm really wondering how this beautiful person, warm and loving woman, kind and tenderhearted angel has come to be my wife and my partner sharing over 25 years (over half of her lifetime) with me in marriage.

You see before the preaching, teaching and the reaching there was the drinking, smoking and the joking me. Before the Saint I was indeed an "Ain't"...Ain't good for nothing; Ain't worried about nobody but self; Ain't going to amount to much; and Ain't gonna to change!

I thank God today that He sent into my life the one who could see the real me through all of the real mess. Kimberly came to me with more love than I have ever been shown by a woman. It wasn't the in your face "love it or leave it" kind, but it was a patient; enduring; steady as we go kind of love. She loved me at my worse and loved me to become my best. She prayed me through and prayed me to what I am today.

It's times like right now, in this quiet and very early hour that God's Word speaks the loudest to me. Today His Word speaks clearly and sharply to me saying that, "True Love Just Acts Like This!!"

So the wondering has been replaced with gratefulness for the wife that I have.

I'm going to lay here beside her for a few more minutes watching her sleep and yes, praying over her day that she hasn't awakened to yet. While I'm doing that, I'll leave you with this for your marriage and relationship:

"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." (1 Peter 4:8)

Love and Happiness - Part 3

Love and Happiness - Part 3

Wednesday's Word: Let's Get Naked!

In the story of Adam and Eve when God created Woman from Man, God created them without barriers from one another...He created them to be side by side. God created them without secrets, hidden agendas, without jealousy and deceit...He created them to be equal in love, equal in labor and equal in the Garden as caretakers of what God has created them to care for.

The Bible says that, "Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame." (Genesis 2:25)

Today, what is this Word of God saying to you about your marriage? To me it says that we need to bare all, have complete trust and truly be equal in love...feeling and having no shame. It means to not expose one another to hurt and shame.

Again, let us strip off the "stuff" of this world that drives us apart and LET'S GET NAKED once more with one another being equal in marriage.

Love and Happiness - Part 2

Love and Happiness - Part 2

Tuesday's Truth: Living the Good Life!

Take your marriage seriously. If you care for it, it will care for you! We must know that marriage isn't an idea or thought, but it is the most intimate connection of two souls which become one and if true, can withstand EVERY test and EVERY trial that comes against it. Living together with your spouse, in harmony and in tune with one another is indeed what we call, "Living a Good Life"...and in my case, I'M LIVING THE GOOD LIFE BECAUSE I HAVE A GOOD WIFE!

The Bible is clear..."Find a good spouse, you find a good life — and even more: the favor of God!" (Proverbs 18:22 MSG)

Truth is, cherish what you have in marriage...God does!

Love and Happiness - Part I

My Pastor has begun an "Occasional" teaching series on "Love and Happiness" in both marriage and relationships. In response, I will dedicate my daily devotional to this teaching for this week.

Monday's Meditation: "Love and Happiness"

Question #1: When is the last time that you went to bed recounting how wonderful, how supportive and how helpful your spouse has been to you just in that day?

Far to often, we rather focus on the few things that didn't get done the way that we would have liked them to get done... yea, it got done, but we are all tripped out about how it got done!

Question #2: When is the last time that you called your spouse to you, embraced, and looked them in the eye and told them all that is right about them, reminded them that they are your first and only choice in this world and confirmed with a kiss that they are loved and appreciated?

Today, "Go All Out in Your Love", think about that special person in your life and don't focus on the few things that you don't like, but instead uplift, embrace and encourage the positives... the positives, you'll find, far outweigh the negatives!

"Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church—a love marked by giving, not getting. Christ’s love makes the church whole. His words evoke her beauty. Everything He does and says is designed to bring the best out of her, dressing her in dazzling white silk, radiant with holiness. And that is how husbands ought to love their wives. They’re really doing themselves a favor—since they’re already “one” in marriage." (Ephesians 5:25-28 MSG)

GOD Gets THE LAST WORD!!!

God Gets THE LAST WORD!!

All of us have gone through some storms during our lifetime. All of us have had to deal with difficult people from time to time and oftentimes, the difficult person most likely was self. All of us have struggled financially, emotionally, physically, relationally and perhaps even socially. However, I have woke up this morning to tell you and to remind myself, that trouble doesn't last always! 

Hear now what The Word of God has to say: 

"Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, He does." (1 Peter 5:8-11 MSG)

Be on alert for your help is on the way. SMILE BIG, enjoy your weekend and FINISH STRONG!!

Lineup for Jesus!

Wednesday's Word: Lineup for Jesus!

Within the last two weeks the big buzz was and is the iPhone 6. It has been shown on television, reported on twitter and talked about around the office water coolers. We have witnessed long lines which began a full week ahead of the release of this past weekend with people literally sleeping on the streets!

Well it was less than 5 minutes before the very first iPhone 6 customer tried to open his box to see his new phone, that it went crashing to the floor. Also, in less than one week this very expensive phone is now being reported that it is bending when carried in your pocket! 

All of the hype, sleeping on the street, long lines, expense and lofty expectations...all of this for a phone? Why do we get this so twisted?

If we have expectations in "things", we only guarantee our frustration. However, when we put our expectations; our hope; our dreams; and our trust in Christ, we will never be disappointed, left wanting, or let down. Question: Who's in line for redemption? Who's in line for forgiveness? Who's in line for righteousness? Who's in line for Jesus?

Be blessed by making the right decision instead of disappointed by making a wrong decision.

And He (Jesus) said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.” (Luke 12:15 NKJV)

Sincerity

Tuesday's Truth: In order for us to make a difference doesn't necessarily mean that we have to be different, we just need to be sincere (free of deceit, hypocrisy or falseness). People are looking for those who are genuine, real, unmixed an unadulterated.

Today choose to live right and be sincere in your calling and relationship with God and watch God make a difference, not only in your life, but also in the lives of all of those connected to you.

Truth is, we are not the difference makers, God is!

Love Builds Up

Monday's Meditation: Love Builds Up!

1 Corinthians 8:1 says, "We know that we all possess knowledge. But knowledge puffs up while love builds up."

Think on this verse today on how Knowledge "PUFFS one up", then think of the opposite, that unlike knowledge, Love doesn't puff up, but it BUILDS ONE UP.

What does this verse say to you about knowledge and love?

God Will Do It

Tuesday's Truth: God Will Do It

Trust God with everything about you! If there is something that you are seeking, Trust God. If there is something that you are in need of, Trust God. If there is something that you trying to achieve in your personal life, family, or career...Trust God.

Don't be proud, obnoxious and arrogant...instead by polite, kind and confident.  Humble yourself in your situation and before God and at just the right time, God will promote you; lift you; and gift you for the next level living that He has already prepared for you! Be patient, your blessing is closer than you can imagine!

Truth is, He has done it for me and He'll do it for you!

"All of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for God has had it with the proud, But takes delight in just plain people. So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; He'll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; He is most careful with you." (1 Peter 5:5-7 (MSG)

Have You Heard?

Monday's Meditation: Have You Heard?

Don't be fooled into worshipping things, people, positions and money.  None of these things can keep a promise to you; None of these things can protect you; None of these things can hear and therefore answer your prayers; and None of these things will greet you in eternity.  

Today, think on those things that you pursue, those things that you are striving for and those things that you most desire. Aren't we running after things that were already given as a promise to us anyway? Don't we already have everything that we will ever have need of in Christ Jesus? Isn't it true that all of the gold and silver; cattle and land already belong to our Father?  Aren't we called to be His children? 

So, what is it that we really need?  God will provide all that we will ever need according to His riches and glory!

Now you've heard!

"It is the LORD who provides the sun to light the day and the moon and stars to light the night, and who stirs the sea into roaring waves. His name is the LORD of Heaven’s Armies..." (‭Jeremiah‬ ‭31‬:‭35‬ NLT)

I Laid Down in Confidence and I Woke Up Encouraged - In Spite of it ALL!!

Finishing Strong Friday means to lay down in confidence on Thursday!  Yep, despite a pressure packed day on yesterday, the news of Air Strikes by our military in Syria and a heavy dose of domestic violence that is all to prevalent and affects all of us...I layed down and I slept in peace of mind and comfort...Yes, I layed down with an assurane that a new day was on the way.  Not just a new day, but a new day full of potential and promise!  Yes, a new day to love more, support better and to live into and not contrary to my purpose.  

I truly believe that we can all Finish Strong every day when we trust God's Word and let it fill our hearts and give us hope that, "A new day will dawn on us from above because our God is loving and merciful."  (‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭78‬ GW)

Have a wonderful weekend!

DON'T SLEEP IN & MISS OUT!

Thankful Thursday: DON'T SLEEP IN & MISS OUT!!! Waking up early powers up my day!

Why would I even begin to think that getting up early actually gives me more power; more drive; more enthusiasm; stamina; courage; boldness and focus?

Read the story in Exodus chapter 16 of "The Bread from Heaven", the Manna that fell from Heaven which appeared early each morning when the Dew lifted (verse 14). Each one of God's children was to gather ALL THAT THEY HAD NEED OF, and this Bread from Heaven would sustain them throughout the entire day. Now, we must understand that the Manna was only supplied in the early morning and would dry up and spoil if not consumed during that day. If you slept too long, the Manna would be no more for that day...it must be gathered in the early morning hours.

So it is still to this day that we are fed the spiritual "Bread from Heaven" early each morning and we must understand that we are to feed to we are FULL each day and we will be sustained until we are replenished early the next morning. This spiritual nourishment is endless and necessary for our lives! God's Word says that man shall not live on bread (physical nourishment) alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4).

I'm THANKFUL to read God's Word, meditate on God's Word, pray God's Word and then share God's Word...early every morning!

The Bible says this about the people and the Manna, "So they gathered it every morning, every man according to his need. And when the sun became hot, it melted." (Exodus 16:21 NKJV)

DON'T SLEEP IN & MISS OUT...Instead of grumbling about how early you woke up, give thanks and get fed!

Have Faith in God

Wednesday's Word: "Have Faith in God."

Your Faith allows GOD to do things for you that no one saw coming. Don't let anyone's commentary discourage your faith. - Hart Ramsey

"So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God." (Mark 11:22 NKJV)

Doom and Gloom vs. Hope and Holiness

Tuesday's Truth: Doom and Gloom vs. Hope and Holiness.

Yes, the signs of the end are evidence that we are nearing the end. We see wars and hear of more wars. The family unit has suffered, diseases are rampant and drugs/chemicals are destroying our communities.

Yet, amongst all of the defiled, destroyed and division we STILL have The Gospel...yes, there's STILL Good News!

People are STILL being delivered.
People are STILL being set free.
People are STILL being Saved and the devil will STILL be totally defeated in the end.

Know today that the truth of the matter is that it doesn't matter when the end finally comes, but it does matter how we are living out our time that we have right now. We have been entrusted with The Gospel to tell God's people that in the end we win in Christ Jesus!

Come what may, we can be anchored in Jesus and that is Good News!

"The gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace." (Colossians 1:6 NIV)

Truth is...we must see the Good through all of the bad. It's there and it's available to those who want it.

It is Today (again)!

Monday's Meditation: It is Today again. 

So, is this the Today that you vowed that you will do what you have been putting off to do? Think about this, if we were crossing out each Today on a list, then truly this Today will be one less Today than you had on yesterday. How many more Todays do we have to put off until tomorrow? Hmmmmm.....


"There is another reason for doing what is right. You know what time it is. It is time for you to wake up from your sleep. The time when we will be taken up to be with Christ is not as far off as when we first put our trust in Him."(Romans 13:11 NLV)


Don't put off for tomorrow the right that you need to do Today!

Get up and Get Going

Finishing Strong Friday: Get up and Get Going, because "Late in the Midnight Hour", God has ALREADY turned it around!

Live today, move today and manifest today the blessing and favor of one who's situation was turned around "Late in the Midnight Hour"!

FAITH and unbelief or GOD and satan...You Choose!

Wednesday's Word: FAITH and unbelief or GOD and satan…you choose!

If we want the benefits of the gospel, do what is required to get’em. However, I cannot guarantee the benefits according to the gospel until we meet the condition of having FAITH.  Hmmmm, are the benefits worth the efforts in meeting the condition of having FAITH? If the answer is “Yes”, then do as we are instructed! Simple enough isn't it? Please know that we cannot expect God to give us these benefits when we fail to do as He requires.  No, it doesn't work that way as He is not that kind of God. He will not break His laws for anyone…including you!  He knows that every single one of us can, if we want, choose to meet the condition of having unwavering FAITH.  Let’s quit fooling ourselves and let us quit complaining that it is too hard to believe.  Really? When we do this, we are indeed engaging in a sinful attitude and we need to ask God to forgive us for believing more the lies of Satan than the truth of God.  As long as we cooperate with our enemy and allow unbelief, we cannot cooperate with God and exercise true FAITH. Truly, we cannot serve two masters or have FAITH and unbelief in our life at the same time.

"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other.” (Matthew 6:24a)

I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency

Tuesday's Truth: I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency!!

I have had the pleasure to be off of work for 7 days straight. I have enjoyed putting my daughter on the school bus everyday. I have been blessed to journey to my hometown for my 30th Reunion and visit with friends that I went to school with. I went to see Pastor Massey and his family at the First Baptist Church of Freedom. I spent an entire day with my best friend Terri Tomalski Cyprowski and her husband Kevin.  

Now I'm back home, sitting here thinking "back to reality" with almost a negative connotation...BUT THEN, I decided to lay back down for only a moment, but not to sleep but to pray. I prayed and then I read God's truth about today, about tomorrow and about my future...therefore the thought for today, "I have everything that I need for today - I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency!!"

After I prayed and read God's Word, I was reminded that my reality is better than any fantasy! We can dream of living on top of the world, having the perfect job (or no job), the perfect family, the perfect home, carefree; footloose and fancy-free lifestyle and that all "sounds" and "seems" good. However, the reality is that I don't live on top of the world, but within the modestness and humbleness of "WHO" God called me to be. I don't have the perfect job, but God has gifted me to do what I do and to do it well, and it brings glory unto Him. My family is far from perfect, so I am reminded to pray for them and myself each and everyday to a God who is perfect and who promises to not withhold any good and perfect thing from those who love Him. My house tends to be more disheveled than tidy; I'm financially  strapped more than I can allow myself to be footloose and fancy-free...BUT STILL, my reality is better because I have Jesus and because of this Truth, there is absolutely nothing that I cannot have and there is absolutely nothing that I cannot do!!

"I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]." (‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭13‬ AMP)

The Truth Is....that with Christ, our reality is better than any fantasy...know that we are sufficient in Christ's sufficiency!

Transition

Finishing Strong Friday: Life and Death...THEN Life!

Yesterday I lost a colleague who transitioned from this life and into the next life. He died of Cancer, but today he is with Christ where there is no more sickness and no more death.

I share this with you because my friend DID NOT die hoping, he transitioned KNOWING! 

There is a difference that I want for all of us to grasp this morning. When those who are Saved die, they merely transition from this life to the next. However, for those of us who are not Saved, we still transition but our destination isn't life, but truly death, which is the complete separation from God.

My colleague knew The Lord and more importantly The Lord KNEW him. When Joe transitioned, he left a diseased, dying, turbulent, corrupt, sinful, hurtful and pitiful world behind and entered into The Kingdom of God as a child of The King of kings and The Lord of lords.

It is said that for those of us who are Saved, that this life will be the only Hell that we will ever experience. Now think of what awaits those who deny salvation...it's going to be a whole lot worse...totally unimaginable!

Cherish today, cherish relationships today, fix things and settle other things and of the utmost importance, accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior - tomorrow is not guaranteed.

Today I pray that when our time comes (and it will come), that we transition KNOWING and not die hoping.

Joe Cowans, Rest in Eternal Peace...YOU FINISHED STRONG!

COME LET US REASON TOGETHER

Thankful Thursday: COME LET US REASON TOGETHER!!

Check this out and don't miss this message! It is The Lord who seeks us in our mess; requires to speak to us while we're living foul; who initiates contact with us when we would rather hide from the condemnation of everyone that we've wronged or hurt!

We can never fall to far and we can never mess up so much that He can't reach us. He wants to hear from you so that He can heal you and restore you and yes, even FORGIVE you!

What are you waiting for? Today is the day that you will be FORGIVEN. Today is the day that you will be DELIVERED. Today is the day that God will wipe the slate clean and give you a new life, new hope and a new agenda!

“Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the Lord , “Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18 NKJV)

Wow-HALLELUJAH-Wow! THIS MEANS YOU AND IT MEANS NOW!!

You Will Do Great Things, When You Ask for Great Things to be Done to Others.

Wednesday's Word: You Will Do Great Things, When You Ask for Great Things to be Done to Others.

Jesus said that for those that believe in Him, they will have the authority to do the same works, wonders, miracles and blessings that He Himself has done...and get this, even greater works shall we have authority to do. However, we must know also that the works in which Jesus performed wasn't for Him, but the works that He did was for others.

May we believe in Jesus and have the authority to free the captives, restore sight to the blind, heal the brokenhearted, motivate, encourage, have compassion and display the fruits of the Spirit which are: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

May we pray for the oppressed and stand against oppression; May we pray for victims and stand against crime; May we pray for the afflicted and stand against drugs, alcohol and every chemical dependency; May we pray for our loved ones and our communities and stand against evil.

Whatever we set in our hearts to do, we must pray (ask) and Jesus promises that "He WILL do it"!!

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.  And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.  If you ask anything in My name, I will do it." (John 14:12-14 NKJV)

LIVE HIM!!

Tuesday’s Truth: You've ALREADY Received Christ – NOW LIVE HIM!!

C’mon, what are we waiting for? What else do we need? Lives are in the balance Saints. Open your mouths and proclaim The Kingdom of God; Walk out your faith; Spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ; Operate in the authority given to you from Christ; and Fulfill your commission as a Servant of God!!

"My counsel for you is simple and straightforward: Just go ahead with what you've been given. You received Christ Jesus, the Master; NOW LIVE HIM. You're deeply rooted in Him. You're well-constructed upon Him. You know your way around the faith. Now do what you've been taught. School's out; quit studying the subject and start LIVING it! And let your LIVING spill over into thanksgiving." (Colossians 2:6-7 the Message)

A Different Gospel

Monday's Meditation: “A Different Gospel”

Have you been told that you need to “Get Right”; clean up your act, stop doing that and start doing this? It is all (I hope) being told with good intentions, but don’t’ get overloaded and overburdened with people’s demands on your life and their preconceived thoughts concerning your relationship with God. God simply wants for you and me to have faith in Him, to believe and to trust in Him.  He is a Mighty God and doesn’t require much more than our simple faith! He will and has already done the rest!

Confession, when God came into my life, I was drinking, cussing, fussing and pretty much doing anything and everything that I wanted to do.  Yet, He Saved my life on a morning when I was hung-over, argumentative and totally living contrary to any semblance to “Getting it Right” with God….and get this, I wasn't even in a church! 

I’m sure there are other/many stories like mine, but I shared this to say that all that I had to do is to hold off the tricks and schemes of the devil for just 1 minute…just long enough for me to allow the voice of God to speak to my heart and then suddenly…I was changed forever!  I wasn't in a suit, I wasn't sober, I wasn't on my knees and I wasn't even in a church…I was right where I was, in my mess and He SAVED ME!  For this reason, I share with you my thoughts and my love for Christ each and every day of the work week, with the hope that you too will tell the devil to “SHUT UP” if only for 1 minute so that God can speak to your heart and you too will be Saved!

Beware of people who say that we need more than simple faith in Christ to be Saved. When people set up additional requirements for salvation (A Different Gospel), they deny the power of Christ’s death on the cross. We must know that there is NO OTHER GOSPEL

The Apostle Paul put it this way, “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel” (Galatians 1:6)

Our Gospel Message is: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever BELIEVES in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Think on this, you can be counted as a "whoever" today instead of being a "whatever" and lost for all eternity! 

Stripping Off the SPECTACULAR

Finishing Strong Friday: Stripping Off the SPECTACULAR!

The FAVOR of God in your life baffles others, it leaves them dumbfounded and confused. How are you doing what you are doing, how is it you succeed more than you fail, why does opportunities always come your way?

Well, everyone else is looking at the SPECTACULAR in your life, but as servants of the Most High God, we have to remind them to STRIP OFF THE SPECTACULAR!!

The "Genesis" of your success and the foundation of your Favor is based on Prayer, God's Word, Trust and Obedience! You see, when you Start Right then you will FINISH Right!!

Yes, they see the SPECTACULAR, but let them know that when you strip away the spectacular and look at the reality, THEN they will believe that it's ALL GOD!

May you begin with God and in doing so...FINISH STRONG!! There's really nothing  SPECTACULAR about me... It's God who alone is SPECTACULAR!

Thankful Thursday

Thankful Thursday: Who is THANKFUL that He woke you up this morning? I have had this song on my heart since I got up...I was going to type the lyrics, but thank God for YouTube :)

The Lord is blessing YOU too! Have a great day...

"The Lord Is Blessing Me Right Now" Fellowship Ch…: http://youtu.be/H4TqoAhlU6I

BACK TO SCHOOL!!!

BACK TO SCHOOL TODAY!

Well, I'm sitting in my comfy chair, sipping coffee and looking at Backpacks, School Supplies, Lunches and new School Clothes. Yep, today is back to school at "The White House" and many other houses.

Our son Kyle is a Senior this year, YAY!!!! Our daughter Kaelyn is a Big 3rd Grader this year. GO KAELYN!!!

As I sit here feeling their excitement to grow wiser, to further mature as individuals and to reunite with friends and most importantly, discover who their teachers will be, I can't help but smile.

I'm excited that the children are excited about school and I pray their protection, I pray for their transportation to and from school, over relationships, lunches and against everything and anything that would come against them!

Lord God, bless the children and lift them and gift them to be representative of what you have already planned for their lives. Bless the teachers who have such a huge role and task ahead of them. Amen.

Again, I look at the excitement of the kids on their first day of school and I hope that we parents get excited, supportive, and studied up for all of the school projects that WE'LL be doing this year!

Oh, I'm also happy that I'm not the only one that has to be up and moving before the sun comes up!!!

Pray for our children, the teachers and the schools everywhere. Pray against shootings and watch God hear and answer...NO SHOOTINGS in 2015!!! I declare a great school year in the name of Jesus!

What are you speaking?

Monday's Meditation: What Are You Speaking?

This is important because we must know that what we say is absorbed by others; it affects others; and it even has an affect on ourselves.

We need to quit speaking division, jealousy, slander, self-promotion and self-preservation, we need to stop speaking doubt, fear and inadequacies.

We MUST become "Faith Speakers"!! We MUST speak hope, potential, possibilities and trust. We MUST speak renewal, restoration and forgiveness. We MUST speak strength, perseverance, and encouragement to our family, our community and beyond.

In order to be a "Faith Speaker" you must first have FAITH in God!

The psalmist says, “I believed and therefore I spoke” (Psalm 116:10)

Today may you believe and out of your belief, SPEAK FAITH... then you will be a "FAITH SPEAKER"

Recognize and Respond!

Finishing Strong Friday: Recognize and Respond!

Yea, that's right! Recognize that you are not to be infected as if to catch the disease called "Evil Doer" by the wrong doings, mistreatment, maladjusted, dis-proportionate activities that appear to be the norm in this world and in this life. BUT you are to effect change for the better by showing the love of God, having compassion, caring for yourself and your neighbor, encouraging the young folks to act right and to live right by nurturing and healing those who have been hurt by "Evil Doers".

Respond by saying no to evil and yes to God and TURN IT AROUND...turn your life around, turn your thoughts around, turn your actions around, turn evil into good, turn wrong into right, turn contempt into compassion, turn fear into hope, turn disappointment into celebration...TURN IT AROUND!

"So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for Him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what He wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you." (‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭1-2‬ MSG)

I'm Not PERFECT and That Is Alright!

Thankful Thursday: I'm Not PERFECT and That Is Alright!

There is no such thing as a PERFECT Person, but there are those of us who are WILLING. Knowing this has freed me from the anxieties of feeling as though I have to be perfect...whew, so much pressure relieved!

God takes what little I do have to offer...whether it be financial, ministerial, relational or vocational and blesses it and makes it great...or PERFECT for the occasion! If you and I can simply offer what we do have, no matter how little or how imperfect it may appear to be to us, God will perfect it!

"For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have." (2 Corinthians 8:12)

Don't Sellout "YOU"!!

Wednesday's Word: Don't Sellout "YOU"!!

Far to many of us are trying to achieve fame, popularity or position by selling out ourselves by not living according to our purpose.

We belittle, berate, go about backstabbing, slandering, stepping on and stepping over others all to make our own names great..

Well, I refuse to do any of this! If I have to totally destroy you to get a better name for myself or a better life for me, then I want no part in that. However, if I respect you, assist you and mentor you or be mentored by you then we will both prosper...not only in this life, but also in the next life as well.

I have no need to compromise my character or integrity to gain temporary success as I am living to obtain eternal success in Christ Jesus.

"A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold." (Proverbs 22:1)

Pour Out Your Soul to Him

Tuesday's Truth: Pour Out Your Soul to Him!

One of the toughest battles that we will continually face in life is the battle within ourselves.

We battle fear of rejection; fear of failure; we can even fear our future. We struggle spiritually with reappearing sin.

Paul spoke of being perplexed... Moses was approaching burnout being the leader and judge over every matter of the people...Jonah said in Jonah 4:8, "It would be better for me to die than to live."... and Elijah in his depression said, "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors." (1 Kings 19:4)

So what is the answer to bearing the load of oppression and depression? What is the answer to fear and burdens? To whom should I bear the heartaches and sorrow and heaviness, and sadness and emptiness and loneliness of my very soul?

Perhaps the simplest answer to our internally difficult concerns is JESUS: "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest...for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28,29)

He is the solution to every heartache, every dilemma, every unsolvable problem, every disappointment and the deepest loneliness.

Truth is: You and I can crawl up on His lap and pour out our soul to Him. It is to us that He says, "How often I wanted to gather (you) together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling..." (Matthew 23:37) And when our inclination is to turn to everyone else but Him He says, "Look, your house is left to you desolate." (Matthew 23:38)

How Is It with Your Soul?

The "WITH" Principle

Monday's Meditation: The "With" Principle!

Many times and by some great efforts and thoughtful intentions, we spend a great deal of time "creating" new programs to invite others to, we create new initiatives to involve, to enlist, and to incorporate the interest of others based on a perception that people are only attracted by newness.

However, think about this...if YOU are already doing something that you're passionate about; if you're involved in something that brings you joy and satisfaction...then why not just invite others to go "WITH" you?

People tend to go "WITH" you when they hear of the exciting things that you are already doing.

Meditate on this: One day when "I" was out there, being "out there", living "out there" and in all honesty feeling as though that it was my lot in life to be left "out there", someone invited me to go "WITH" them...and I said YES!!

"I was glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of The LORD." (Psalm 122:1)

The Three C's of Finishing Strong!

Finishing Strong Friday: The Three C’s of Finishing Strong!

There are so many good people that I know. Also, I am blessed to be in a loving, caring and supportive family.  It used to be that when I had issues or difficulties, I would call on my family, engage my friends and await their advice and directions.  Oftentimes, things worked out and on my way I went. However, the times of success were short lived, sickness set in; distress came a knocking; fear and confusion paid me a visit and when I looked around I saw that I was hemmed in on every side.

I slipped into isolation effectively avoiding all of the good people in my life…I tried them and they couldn't do it.  I picked up smoking as I was of the thought that smoking would relieve stress and anxiety, only to discover that smoking added additional issues and dependencies…so smoking couldn't do it either. I tried alcohol thinking that I can drink life’s issues away only to discover that after the buzz is gone, the problems remain…so, that didn't work either! I could go on and on about things I've tried (sex, drugs, excessive partying, etc.), but we all have been there and are all too familiar with this story. 

However, it wasn't until the Word of God was shared with me by someone who has always been there in my life (my brother Ken) and seen my downward spiral, yet still told me that I was of value in the eyes of Jesus Christ, that I discovered that I was welcoming everything and receiving nothing…whereas, Jesus was accepting me as I was, yet I was refusing to come to Him. 

My favorite book (if there is such a thing, I like them all) in the Bible is John’s Gospel.  It is this Gospel that opened my eyes and my heart to who Jesus is, what He came for, and what He has already done so that I (we) can live the life meant for us, not just the life that we have been deceived into living.

Yes, I tried everything, but the Word of God CONVICTED me when it spoke clearly and precisely to my spirit, “Yet you refuse to come to me to have life.” (John 5:40)

This verse was so true in my life and after I was CONVICTED, I was then COMFORTED because I knew that I no longer had to be “hemmed” in, there was a way out!  After I was CONVICTED and then COMFORTED, the Power of The Holy Spirit then CONVERTED my spirit and I received The Lord Jesus as my Lord and Savior.

In that instant I became a child of The Most High God and I have had no need to try anything or anyone ever since…I have in Christ Jesus ALL that I will ever need!

I became transparent this morning so that I can share this Living Word so you may be CONVICTED, COMFORTED and ultimately, CONVERTED!!! The three C’s in the world are to be Cool, Calm and Collected…but, I offer CONVICTED, COMFORTED AND CONVERTED.  The three C’s that I offer gives life, the others are just a status.

Don't You Dare Take for Granted the Gift of Life nor Take for Granted the Gift of Today...

Wednesdays Word: Get Out of Your FUNK and Live! Today does matter and everything that you do today matters! Don't you dare take for granted the gift of life nor take for granted the gift of today...

"Seize life! Eat bread with gusto, Drink wine with a robust heart. Oh yes—God takes pleasure in your pleasure! Dress festively every morning. Don’t skimp on colors and scarves. Relish life with the spouse you love Each and every day of your precarious life. Each day is God’s gift. It’s all you get in exchange For the hard work of staying alive. Make the most of each one! Whatever turns up, grab it and do it. And heartily! This is your last and only chance at it, For there’s neither work to do nor thoughts to think In the company of the dead, where you’re most certainly headed. (Ecclesiastes 9:7-10 MSG)

"Today" will not happen tomorrow because it is meant to happen TODAY!

Is That YOUR Final Answer?

Tuesday's Truth: Is That Your Final Answer?

On game shows, the Host would ask you this question to ensure that you have reached your final answer.

As ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we are continually preaching, teaching and reaching in many ways and through various media. However, we can't force you to accept the Gospel, but we are compelled to share it with you. The final choice of accepting it is yours.

Today may be the last, we aren't sure of that, but we can be sure that if we say "Yes" to Jesus, we will be Saved.

YOUR "Reward" Will Be Aligned with YOUR Choices and there will be no finger pointing or anyone to blame...the choice is yours alone.

As a parent, a brother, as family, as a friend and minister...I have done my part and as best I can...What will be YOUR Final Answer?

Truth Is: "The one who sins is the one who will die. The child will not share the guilt of the parent, nor will the parent share the guilt of the child. The righteousness of the righteous will be credited to them, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against them." (Ezekiel 18:20 NIV)

Responsibility

Monday's Meditation: God is faithful BUT we need to take some Responsibility!

We expect God to be faithful all the while we are acting irresponsible! Let's do our part and be responsible because God is eternally faithful.

- Our responsibility is to treat others as we ourselves want to be treated

- Our responsibility is to know that our bodies are the dwelling place of The Spirit of God, quit defiling His Temple with substances not meant to be introduced into our bodies

- Our responsibility is to honor our parents their whole lives, not until you think you're grown and then begin to disrespect them and dishonor them

- Our responsibility is to live according to The Word of God; thereby, living out the purpose that God has created us to fulfill

Meditate on this: When we become responsible to do our part, then God is not only faithful to provide for you but God will show you Favor; He will Forgive you; He will Deliver you; He will Promote you; He will Protect you; and He will Bless everything attached to you!!

Get rid of the defeatist mindset and TAKE BACK your life that the enemy has been controlling and put your life back into the hands of God. Now that's being responsible!

“But if a wicked man turns from all his sins which he has committed, keeps all My statutes, and does what is lawful and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die." (Ezekiel 18:21 NKJV)

Let's Go!

Thankful Thursday: Let's Go!

Last night in VBS, we studied the birth of Jesus Christ. We learned how an angel proclaimed the birth of Jesus to shepherds and how a host of angels appeared in the sky and began singing praises unto the Lord. Immediately after the praise, the shepherds said to one another let's go see what this was all about!

"When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” (Luke 2:15)

This is the same way in which we approach the Word of God. Every time we open the Word of God, we are searching to see this thing that has been birthed in us. His Word tells us of His promises for us and His love towards us.

Be thankful today for all that the Lord has done in us and for what He is doing for us!

May we open our Bibles and our hearts and say "Let's Go" and see what the Lord is up to on OUR behalf!

Why Are We Sweating So Much?

Wednesday's Word: "If the Ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success." (Ecclesiastes 10:10 NIV)

The above verse this morning prompted me to ask a question to all of us and that question is: Why Are We Sweating So Much?

We "Sweat" one another; we "Sweat" over situations; and more often than we should...we "Sweat" the small stuff!

If we find ourselves to be a "Sweaty" mess, then perhaps we are working too hard. Truly this life really only requires one SKILL and that is to trust and believe in God.

So stop sweating, get with other believers and study God's Word together because "Iron does sharpen Iron". We've been dull long enough and we've been working way too hard!

YOU'VE SEEN HIS GREAT POWER...Now what are you going to do about it? Take a PRAISE BREAK and CELEBRATE GOD!!!

Tuesday's Truth: It's Time for a PRAISE BREAK!

The Israelites have just been delivered from Egypt and they can literally see the bodies of those Egyptian soldiers who pursued them but were drowned when God let the waters of the Red Sea return.

You too have seen the power of God in your life when He delivered you from bondage, oppression, addiction, depression, affliction, torment, abusive relationships and most importantly for those of us who are covered by the Blood of The Lamb...He utterly delivered us from sin, death and the grave.

"When the Israelites saw the great power with which the Lord had defeated the Egyptians, they stood in awe of the Lord; and they had faith in the Lord and in His servant Moses. Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the Lord: “I will sing to the Lord, because He has won a glorious victory; He has thrown the horses and their riders into the sea. The Lord is my strong defender; He is the one who has saved me. He is my God, and I will praise Him, my father's God, and I will sing about His greatness." (Exodus 14:31- 15:2)

IT'S TIME TO TAKE A PRAISE BREAK AND CELEBRATE GOD!

He has truly been good to us. Actually, He's been better to us than we have been to ourselves!

Come out tonight to our "Praise Break" Vacation Bible School starting at 6:30pm. We will meet for three consecutive nights for a PRAISE BREAK. I hope you and your children can stop by!

2900 Smallwood Drive West
Waldorf, MD

STAND!

Monday's Meditation: STAND!

Stand up and square your shoulders
Stand strong, plant you feet and don't give ground
Stand for what is right
Stand in the face of adversity
Stand in spite of difficulty

And when you can't Stand, KNEEL in prayer and ask God for the strength to endure; the strength to overcome; and the strength to continue. Once you've kneeled...STAND AGAIN AND PRESS ON!

Meditate on this: If you can make it through it then you will make it to it.

Mind Your Words

Finishing Strong Friday: Mind Your Words

The power to build up or to tear down; The responsibility to heal or to hurt; and the Heart to accept and forgive or to dismiss and to chastise...all is contained in the words you choose to speak today.

Before you open your mouth to speak today, pray.

Someone's struggle to Finish Strong or perhaps to simply finish at all, may be depending on the words you speak today to them and over them. Choose your words wisely... MIND YOUR WORDS!!

"Kind words heal and help; cutting words wound and maim." (Proverbs 15:4 MSG)

We're STILL Here!

Thankful Thursday: In Spite of Their Best Efforts, We're STILL Here!

The enemy has tried deceit, slander, sickness and disease; Satan has put family member against family member, intoxication, fornication, isolation and abandonment...

"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We  are  hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we  are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed" (2 Corinthians 4:7-9 NKJV)

Can we give a SHOUT of HALLELUJAH because through it all, We're STILL Here!!

Now continue praising while you continue to get back on your feet...yes we do get struck down, BUT WE ARE NOT DESTROYED!!

ITS TIME TO GET BACK UP!

It's the Way You Live, Not the Way You Talk, that Counts!

Wednesday's Word: It's the Way You Live, Not the Way You Talk, That Counts!

Have you ever known anyone who claimed to be wise but acted foolishly when things didn't quite go as planned? How about the person who goes to church, carries the Bible and has the Cross hanging around their neck...yet when faced with opposition; they lose their ever-loving mind? Lastly, someone who has the corner office, the beautiful spouse and the nice home but lives in fear of losing it all... every minute of every day; therefore, instead of enjoying what they have, they live in fear or are consumed with jealousy of what someone else may have that they don't have.

DON'T be this person!!

Live your life...don't just talk about it to make yourself look good on Social Media! What's your world really look like when you log off?

If any of the abovementioned scenarios strike a nerve, then I would suggest that you learn to appreciate and be thankful for what you have and live abundantly in it!

I pray that you love you and all that belongs to you...your family, your health, your material possessions...no matter how great or how small...they're yours so appreciate them, regardless of the opinions and perceptions of others.

Life has to be lived, not just talked about.

Live your life today!