Tag: scripture

A Line In The Dark

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A Line In The Dark

My God, I know you’re near, but I struggle to feel you. My God, I need a hero today, to come into my heart and show me the way, and to save me today. My God you hear me in the night, you know my heart, and you see my tears. I stain the pillow and I wrap it around my face to muffle my scream. I feel so much I can’t bottle it up anymore. So long I hid away the deepest feelings of my heart, and one day they exploded in a moment of weakness. I don’t know how to manage today with so much bubbling up. I know you’re there, but I feel lost in my own night. I sense the evil around me, circling like a pack of hyenas. I can hear the laughing in the dark, the cries of pain, the joy of the suffering; sounds from the cold dark shadows fill the air. I feel the dirt covering me as my body disappears under the ground, my arm outstretched waiting for a hero to grab my hand.

Where’s your inner strength come from when the world collapses down upon you? Can you hear the cries in the dark, can you fill the Nile with the tears you’ve spent in the darkness? I say to you, it’s time to stand with the resistance and fight back. It’s time to stand tall on your faith, and it’s time to dig in your spiked sandals and find the strength blessed by God, paid for by Jesus. Scream aloud as you take no more. Own your life, be the masters of your heart over the Devils attacks. It’s time to rise above, and burst out from the ground Satan tries to bury you in. The Devil wants your heart and it’s time to cry out in a voice, ‘you can pry my heart from my cold dead chest, after I’ve ascended to Heaven!” You’re a soldier, you’re a winner, you’re of royal blood, and the Devil can’t keep you. Be a warrior, and fight back with every ounce of strength you have. We ware for our minds, but never our souls. Our souls belong to the Lord, and though we are pushed, and beaten, the gift cannot be undone. 2 Corinthians 10:3-6 (NKJV)3 “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.”

My Lord you are my strength when my own fails. You are my guide when I loose my way. The ledge approaches as I dig in my feet, my knees to the ground, and the shield surrounded by fire as the attacks come. The arrows from the enemy fly all around me, and I know the cavalry is on its way. I cannot give up while the blood spilt for me. I’m not going to die tonight, as I will continue to fight. The world says give up, the world says I’m not good enough, the storm says I’m not strong enough, but I know it’s time to fight back. It’s never enough to just hide away from the storm, but it’s time to get back up and take the fight to the storm. How will it feel to take your life back, and stand up to the demons that make you afraid in the night. The sword we hold, the sword of the spirit that is stronger then any steel.

Ephesians 6:10-18(NKJV)10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints”

Tonight the line must be drawn here, this far, no farther. The Lord’s vengeance is long lasting, and when you feel the anger bubbling inside of you from what the Devil has wrought on you and your house, remember that  peace is knowing the Lord is in control. Romans 12:19 (NKJV) “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.” The fight comes to our lives, but we hold the ground. We take the line, and we never give up the ground. God might seem so far away, but trust that you’re never alone. Some tests the child needs to face on their own, but that doesn’t mean Abba isn’t there. Tonight when the demons come around light up the dark with the presence of the Lord. Call upon father and the angels will come forth and help hold the line. You shall never be on the battlefield alone, and tonight you can hold on till the dawn comes. Don’t let the demons take you tonight, and don’t give up for as long as you breath there’s always hope.

I thought I couldn’t hear you Lord, but it was me that wasn’t listening. I thought I was alone, but it was me that wasn’t looking. I thought I was broken inside but it was just the world. I prayed you’d come, but I wouldn’t open the door. I listened to all the wrong voices, I trusted the wrong signs, but now it’s time to rise, my old self dies away, the line drawn and fight for what I know is truth. As Picard said “We’ve made too many compromises already, too many retreats. They invade our space, and we fall back. They assimilate entire worlds, and we fall back. Not again! The line must be drawn here! This far, no further!” I cannot stand by and do nothing as the Devil gains ground all around me. The compromising has become a plague, and it’s time to rise as a soldier, and I know the time for retreats is over. It’s time to make the choice to do what is right over what is easy. Tonight, rise a soldier, and raise the sword of the God, and fight back. I will not stay on the defensive anymore. I have allowed to many to drain my happiness, my kindness, and I’ve wasted too much time on those that would only do me harm. Satan’s whispers in the dark will not draw me out unprepared any longer. I will be taking back my life that was stolen from me so long ago. I’ve been on the run so many years, no more. From the ashes a new creature is born. Satan burned my life down trying to destroy me, but instead of removing me from the chessboard, I am stronger, more determined then ever to fight back. My faith, my strength, my battle cry lights up the darkness, like the power of Odin coming down from the sky, but the power of Jesus Christ is unmatched. The demons flea from me, as the battle cry is for Jesus to grant me strength. I cannot loose because it’s my faith, my love of Christ, and I cannot be bought, or broken. The future is hope, and eternal paradise awaits the faithful. My shield is close, my sword is sharp, and I’m ready to fight. Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV)12 “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

 

Red Alert

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Red Alert

We sit and wait, bracing for impact. All we can do is prepare, plan, and pray. We cannot worry for the storm, but trust in God that we are given the opportunity to show Christ within us as we move forward. There’s a season for everything, and while I can admit with honesty that this last 7-8 days has been a challenge. Since the accident of my car things have been one after another. Recently I spoke to a pastor, and we talked about the frequency of Satan’s attacks, and the level of attacks. It seems as though it’s no longer just one event, but now a slew of targeted attacks. The old axiom now seems the rule rather than the exception, ‘when it rains, it pours’. Sadly this makes things very difficult for people and families all over. In these times of struggles all we can do is react in a Christ like way, pray that God will deliver us, and show us a way through.

Here’s a small roadmap to manage the storm, and the upcoming storm:

Stand on God’s promises. There’s encouragement in scripture for almost every situation you may face. Be sure to build your foundation of faith on solid ground.

Pray always. It’s important to continue your prayers to the one and only that can truly make any changes, our Lord, our Abba Father.

Continue to Praise God for everything you face. It’s in our trials we rise to the occasion and we grow, but also that we grow closest to God. We must trust the Lord, and have the faith of a warrior and that means to praise God for the storms, the rainbows, and the sunshine.

Be the warrior. No one knows what they can do till they are tested. You don’t win the battle with the first swing of the sword. It takes time, it takes one step, then another. With every step and swing maintain your faith and every day bring your A game.

Miracles can happen. We may not always see the things that come together to work out situations, but if we took a deeper look, it’s likely we’d see micro miracles along the way. Trust in God that God can work anything out, and even the worst situations, good can come.

 

When the battles come, be sure to raise the alert, put on the armor, grab your shield, and prepare for spiritual battles. Psalm 18:39 (ESV)“For you equipped me with strength for the battle; you made those who rise against me sink under me.” The one who speaks of the warrior mentality, David, Psalm 144:1 ESV“Of David. Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle;”

Parasite

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Parasite

Are you allowing people to stay in your life who only come around for encouragement, or when they need something? These people drain your emotional resource but never replenish it. These people will never or rarely be there for you. I have had many difference parasites live in my life. I’ve had people who only come around when it’s convenient for them. These people come around to refill their supply of good vibes and then when they are full, they move forward again. Most of my life I’ve had people seem to use me for whatever they wanted, and then when it no longer suited them, they left. I’ve been host to many parasites over the years. One of my faults is not knowing that I’m being taken advantage of. Even people I’ve cared about have used me for their personal gain and once their goals were achieved, again, thrown away. People can truly be parasites and latch on and just like a leach, suck away your passion, your joy, your love, and leave you with next to nothing.

Recently I had a situation come up that really got me thinking about how others think.

About seven weeks ago I started talking to this seemingly nice lady online. We’d been talking on and off for that whole time, and finally the question came up ‘are we compatible’? I took a long look at what was on my list, and what I believe in, and what she believed in, and my answer was no, we aren’t. However, I felt that there was plenty of good qualities to maintain a friendship. When I told her I didn’t think a relationship would work, she abruptly said goodbye. I had a few minutes to talk with her about why she was leaving and no matter how I reasoned for a friendship, she was insistent on an all or nothing relationship. This struck me as odd because she would be willing to move into a relationship based on the last seven weeks but felt nothing about leaving a friendship. How can you talk to someone for seven weeks and be okay with a romantic relationship but you’re so quick to leave a friendship. I always thought you must have a good solid foundation of friends before the relationship can really flourish.

This situation has prompted me to ask a very important question, ‘if we aren’t compatible for a relationship are you willing to be friends?’ The question seems simple enough, but it’s led me to wonder what people s true motives are, and what drives them. There was no thought to how I would feel in this particular situation, only what was in it for her. Now, on the flip side I can hear some of you thinking ‘maybe she really liked you and she couldn’t just be friends.’ While yes, this is always a possibility, I didn’t get that impression at all in the conversation. With everything she had said, she really couldn’t see a benefit to being friends. This of course triggered an emotional response from me, as I questioned yet again my self-worth. It’s not easy feeling that kind of rejection. I’m sure she felt some form of rejection also, but she knew our beliefs weren’t the same and weren’t compatible so she also said no in a way, but the rejection was a friendship. I wonder what I failed to do in those seven weeks to show myself as a worthy friend. I wonder why I wasn’t good enough to be a friend. The thing is, and this is easy to say, hard to believe, it wasn’t about me at all. This was about what I could be for her, and that was her only thought. She too, thrives on taking from others, and cares little about what she gives in return.

Scripture talks about those who would take from you, use you, abuse you, and yet, I think it’s often overlooked. So many relationships are symbiotic and while sometimes this is a good thing, there are forms of symbiotic relationships that are harmful to one or both of the symbiont. The four types are mutualism, commensalism, parasitism, and competition. The one we’re going to discuss is parasitism. This is where one of the symbiotes is gaining something by taking it from the other relationship. In essence, calling someone a parasite in your life is not only accurate, but it happens in nature quite often, and people are no different. Remember though, you have a choice, you have a choice to live a life in love, or hate.

An article I found https://www.elitedaily.com/dating/one-sided-relationship/1269161gives a good account of the warning signs to look for if you think you may be in one of these relationships. It’s pretty clear these relationships are harmful, and must not be a long-term relationship. I encourage you to turn to scripture when you think you may be in this situation. Luke 8:17 (NKJV)17 “For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light” Remember that people aren’t going to be up front about their intentions, and they may not even realize what they are doing is harmful. It’s important to approach with love, and show concern towards the relationship and attempt to get your partner to change their ways. However, if this doesn’t happen, you need to have a long conversation with God about what’s best for you to do. You will be surrounded by opinions, and those may be good, they may be bad, but no matter what surrounds you, it’s important to followHebrews 12:1 (NKJV)“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,”

Remember that if you are abundant with love, and a giving nature you are wealthy in spirit. People will want this, and it’s not just a wealth of money people seek, but anything that can be given is an object of affection. People sometimes want to have someone to serve them, or be their punching bag. People in abusive relationships are also in that symbiotic relationship, and as you give up your self to stay in that relationship, you are giving the other person power, control, by giving up your own. They thrive on that, and as long as you’re willing to stay, they will continue to feed on that. Proverbs 19:4“Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.”

Fear not though, because there is always a way out, and if you don’t know what that may be, or you need help figuring out the best course of action, or if you just need someone to talk to about it, I urge you to seek Godly counsel. I urge you to take a long hard look at what’s going on in your life. If your resource is being drained, perhaps counseling is needed, couples counseling, or individual at the very least. James 1:5“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” Seek God first in every situation, and trust that there is still hope. If you’re in a physically abusive relationship, I urge you to seek help right away. I urge you to stand up for yourself by removing yourself from a dangerous situation. Second is an emotionally abusive relationship, I urge you to seek counsel right away. Attempt to get into counseling, and see if you can change the statuesque.

No matter where you are in your life, always proceed with love. You can love someone, but that doesn’t mean they are healthy for you. As such you can love an addiction, but that doesn’t mean it’s good for you. You must have discernment with who you give abundantly too. Trust in the Lord to watch over you, and protect you. This doesn’t mean the Lord will snap his fingers and your abuser will stop abusing, but more, the Lord will give you a way out, people that will help you, but only if you seek. I’ve heard before “why did God let my ______ to abuse me?” See, God doesn’t let anyone get away with anything. Those things happen, but God doesn’t forget. You always have the ability to leave. It may not be easy, but you can leave. You will have to make a choice in your life, and trust in God to be there with you no matter what you choose to do.

If any who reads find yourselves in any of these situations, please pray about what you need to do, and please be sure to seek Godly counsel and help. Make sure you are safe and not in a dangerous situation. God will be with you, and God will be there to comfort your spirit. You don’t have to stay in those kinds of relationships. If you are a person who gives and gives and people take advantage over your kindness, your generosity, pray about what you are doing. What you have is a gift from God and we are told in scripture to use our gifts wisely and for what is edifying of the Holy Spirit. Love everyone, but don’t enable bad behavior. Use your gifts on those who truly need and appreciate them. Don’t waist your energy, your hard work, or even your own hard-earned money in some cases on those who aren’t willing to work for themselves. Use discernment in all you do.

I am praying for all of you that this post may touch in a special way, and I pray God gives you what you need to a better tomorrow.

Tipping Point

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Tipping Point

How long will you travel down the road you’re on before you make a change in your life? Will you wait until you don’t have any other option? Sadly most people will refuse to change until the choice is no longer theirs to make. It seems the path towards self-destruction is a path that must run its course. Sadly I have watched people I’ve cared about hop on that train, and no matter what anyone did they had to ride along till it hit the brick wall, or as most people call it, hitting rock bottom.

What is it about that course that so many fall prey too? The human mind is a tricky thing, and when we truly take some time to think about it, why would anyone stay on such a self-destructive path? I think the answer is simple, and yet complicated at the same time. The simple answer is of coursesin, but the difficult answer is the complexity of the human brain. I think there’s something that happens inside the human brain that gets confused. Take a bad relationship for example. The whole world might realize a relationship is bad news, but the one person who doesn’t is the person in the middle of it. There can be emotional abuse, an over controlling element, or even physical abuse, and yet someone will stay in that situation till, they hit rock bottom. Much of that has to do with self-esteem, a notion of worthlessness, and an idea that no one else could ever love them, so it’s better to be mistreated by someone who ‘loves me’ than to be alone. Then there’s the alcoholic, substance abuse addicts, and workaholics who drive themselves towards destruction and rarely turn their own train before it smashes into the wall.

What can we do though, for those people who seem to be on those trains? Sadly the answer is not much, and any intervention may be a dangerous idea for the relationship. People often lash out when an intervention is staged. Admitting there’s a problem is incredibly difficult and always the first step to any real change. Every 12 step program is laid out very similar, and the first step is always the same.

  1. Admitting powerlessness over the addiction
  2. Believing that a higher power (in whatever form) can help
  3. Deciding to turn control over to the higher power
  4. Taking a personal inventory
  5. Admitting to the higher power, oneself, and another person the wrongs done
  6. Being ready to have the higher power correct any shortcomings in one’s character
  7. Asking the higher power to remove those shortcomings
  8. Making a list of wrongs done to others and being willing to make amends for those wrongs
  9. Contacting those who have been hurt, unless doing so would harm the person
  10. Continuing to take personal inventory and admitting when one is wrong
  11. Seeking enlightenment and connection with the higher power via prayer and meditation
  12. Carrying the message of the 12 Steps to others in need

 

While the 12 steps list a higher power, we as Christians must remember that it is God, Jesus Christ that can help us. No matter what situation you find yourself in, there are a few things that need to be mentioned. First, the creator of the universe loves you. Jesus Christ died for you, and you are special to Him. Second, you do not have to stay on the road you’re on. There is always help out there and all you have to do is ask for it. However, you must be willing to hear the truth, and face the challenge of making the change, which of course will not be easy. Third, you must trust that God can work out any bad situation, and there is something good to be taken from it. No matter the horrible things you’ve experienced in your life, i.e. rape, abuse (physical or emotional), loss, health issues, addictions, etc.) no matter what it is, there is something to be gained for it, and used in a positive way. Fourth, GOD DID NOT CAUSE YOUR SUFFERING, I cannot understate this. God is not in the habit of causing suffering in our lives. We must understand the nature of a sinful world, and a world endowed with free will. People choose to act how they want to. People choose to prey on the weak, to take other peoples power for their own. People choose to give in to the sin nature of this world. People choose to allow addictions to take hold by starting in the first place. People choose to rape, to abuse, to control, because it masks their own insecurities, and they themselves are not following Christ. We often want to blame God, instead of blaming the Devil. We want to ask God why He didn’t save us, and the truth is, he probably tried. We expect God to send us a miraculous intervention, where the truth is, there were probably people there who would have been willing to help, and maybe even tried to help. The problem is, sometimes we slap away the hands that try to help us.

It’s said we as people don’t truly change till we reach the precipice, the bottom of the barrel, the brick wall, but the truth is, you don’t have to wait that long. Addiction can be anything to include staying in bad abusive relationships, but there is hope. 1 Corinthians 10:13-14 (NKJV)13 “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” When we put anything before God that is our idol, and we are in essence worshiping that in which stands between God and us. If it’s work, or a substance, video games, whatever you can fill in the blank that takes the majority of your focus, there’s a time to walk away. Change is possible any time, anywhere, but YOU have to be willing to make that step towards change.

I have lost two wives to adultery and I remember asking what I had done to deserve it. I asked God why I was being punished, and what I didn’t realize at the time was it wasn’t God, no, it was Satan that had intervened in my life and brought destruction upon my home. 1 John 2:16 (NKJV)16 “For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.” Every day people endure hardships, and they endure the pain of this life, and every day people cry out to the Father and ask what they have done, why did they deserve such horrible things, but the fact is, it’s a sinful world, and there will be troubles. God does not force people into His will and in turn God does not force people to sin. God did not force sin upon this world, but people choose to sin. As scripture says, God will ALWAYS give you a way out. It may not be easy, but God isn’t in the business of making life easy, but it is always what is right. “Dark times lie ahead of us and there will be a time when we must choose between what is easy and what is right.”(Albus Dumbledore)

If you’re in a position you want to change, or need to change, ask yourself, have you been talking to God about it? Has an opportunity to change been presented to you but you’ve not taken it? Is the situation truly bad, or is it that you’re just not happy? Are you putting your attention to objects, substances or people? No matter what’s going on in your life there is always hope in Christ. Remember that as you might have fallen victim at the hands of others, remember it’s free will that causes so much pain. The same free will that causes you pain, is also the same free will that allows you to walk away and turn to God. 1 Corinthians 6:12“All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” Don’t give away the power God has given to you. Don’t allow other people to take your happiness from you. When you trust in God you are given joy, and nothing can steal away your Joy. If you are in an abusive relationship, get help. If you are addicted to (blank) get help. Don’t walk through this life living in misery, there’s help out there for you. Be willing to make the hard decision for the hard change, but always turn to God for guidance. God will hear you, and God will answer you, so keep an eye open for it, and listen to the Holy Spirit guiding you. Have faith and don’t forget to love first, love God.

God’s a Chess Master

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God’s a Chess Master

We pray to God and we ask for things, we pray for all kinds of things but how often do we get frustrated when we don’t get them in a time we had envisioned for ourselves? I know I have prayed and have become frustrated when my prayers hadn’t been answered. As I have been considering what it is God truly does, I have in my opinion grown in my spiritual maturity. While God can materialize things from thin air, God chooses to use recourses already in play in the world. I like to think of this world as a chessboard for God.

When I think back to the 400-year gap between the Old and New Testament I think about how pieces on the board needed to be moved, and positioned in order to have everything in place for the arrival of Christ. The world wasn’t ready for Christ and God had to work on the process for 400 years. When we pray and we ask for something, our prayers are always answered, now that answer may be a no, not yet, or a yes, but sometimes we have to wait to receive the answer. Think of it this way, if you pray for a new job, that job first has to be available, the right people need to be in the right place, the environment must be prepared in order for your prayers to be answered as a blessing and not a curse.

There has been study on lottery winners who’ve gone from nothing to millions overnight. A very high percentage of lottery winners end up worse off then when they started. We often ask for things that God knows would be a curse for us but we don’t see it that way. In the parable of the talents Matthew 25:14-30 three men are given a different amount of money comparable to their abilities. Two of the men manage well, but one did nothing with the money, and in fact put the money at risk. We are given so much and entrusted with what we have. Luke 16:10 (NKJV)10 “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.” We must understand that we may not get what we desire because what we want wouldn’t be good for us. We must learn to trust in the Lord and believe that if something doesn’t happen the way we want it to there must be a reason.

In chess it’s important to move pieces into place before moving in on the opponents king. Chess is a game of patience and we too must learn that God is a God of patience. When one considered the moving pieces needed in order for David to be reigned King, from the promise made to him to the point he became king it was 15 years give or take a year or two. It took time to arrange everything for David to become King. Patience is important and if we ask for something we have to understand that God may be working on our request, and just because we don’t see the moving pieces doesn’t mean God isn’t working on it. It’s not just a matter of being patient, but also a matter of trust. If we are to call ourselves true Christians, we must trust in our God, truly believe that He Father of all things has our best interest at heart. Joshua 1:9 (NKJV)9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” This of course is easier said than done but regardless, it’s something we need to work on, something we need to think about every day.

We live in a microwave generation where everything is accessible within a couple days. We forget that we are foolish in our own sight, but the God of the universe knows our hearts, he knows our path, and as our Abba we must trust in His way, not our own. Proverbs 11:28(NKJV)28 “He who trusts in his riches will fall, But the righteous will flourish like foliage.” We put our desires into the material. We place our hearts in the stuff we want, or the people we want, but we rarely sit back and ask God what we can do for the Almighty. We want God to place stuff in our path for our own joy, but we don’t ask how we can be used as His pieces on His chessboard. What are we on the board? Are we pawns, or are we knights? Are we the little throw away pieces, or are we God’s heavy hitters? We should think about how are we allowing ourselves to be of service to God instead of constantly asking for stuff. If we want to expect things from God, perhaps we should look at it from God’s point of view. If we aren’t going to do anything for God, why would we be blessed by God? We are incredibly selfish and we need to take a step back and wake up and realize we are to serve the Lord, and God isn’t here to serve us.

Hope Always

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Hope Always

The life we live can be full of never any changes. I heard in a sermon recently where it was said after something big happens “the world will never be the same.” While this is hitting the nail on the head it’s important to remember that at some point our season will change, and we will be faced with tough choices. We cannot go through life surprised that the seasons change without warning. We cannot let those changes put a wedge between our Father and us. There’s one thing we must always remember and that’s God is still on the throne, God’s still in control, and we must understand that our prayers are always heard, and answered, even if we don’t see or understand the answer.

Ecclesiastes 3 (NKJV)

Everything Has Its Time

3 To everything there is a season,

A time for every purpose under heaven:

2 A time [a]to be born,

And a time to die;

A time to plant,

And a time to pluck what is planted;

3 A time to kill,

And a time to heal;

A time to break down,

And a time to build up;

4 A time to weep,

And a time to laugh;

A time to mourn,

And a time to dance;

5 A time to cast away stones,

And a time to gather stones;

A time to embrace,

And a time to refrain from embracing;

6 A time to gain,

And a time to lose;

A time to keep,

And a time to throw away;

7 A time to tear,

And a time to sew;

A time to keep silence,

And a time to speak;

8 A time to love,

And a time to hate;

A time of war,

And a time of peace.

A Light in the Darkness

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A Light in the Darkness

The darkness has covered the whole of the Earth. The fear, and hate, anger all flows around us like the wind through the trees. In this world the negativity and fear have flooded our streets, our schools, our homes, and we face tough situations every day in this life. With the world telling us one thing, and the scripture telling us another, we are left in the darkness of our own minds, our own beds to consider what’s going on. “Live in this world, but do not be conformed to it.” What does it mean to be a Christian today? If a Christian gets angry and says some bad things, they are condemned and ridiculed for it. The hardships Christians face today in a world that’s forever growing more bitter and ‘progressive’, Christians are not the ones antiquated, out of date. See, Christians have been facing persecution since it’s founding after Christ rose from the dead. Today it seems the church is once again under attack in many ways. This growing persecution although it’s not new, it does seem like a failing environment which is allowing an epic proportion of sexual immorality, divorce, abuse, criminal activities, all on an biblical scale. People no longer prescribe to the law of the Holy Book.  We show similar behaviors of Sodom and Gomorrah, so it begs the question will we one-day face judgment as they did. While this is something heard quite often that if we (the USA) doesn’t change our ways if God doesn’t intervene soon, God would owe Sodom an apology. This isn’t the only city in the Bible that was full of debauchery, alcohol abuse, and all manner sinful behavior, you have probably heard of it, Corinth, as in 1stand 2ndCorinthians. An interesting point to mention is the city of Corinth was rebuilt by Julius Cesar and within the city a new temple to the Roman goddess of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Corinth was a large commercial center and with as much traffic that it had ritualistic prostitution as a regular part of life. Corinth needed to see the light, and I suggest that we the USA also need to see the light.

I often wonder how my own life will affect those around me in this life. I fully admit that there are times my struggle with depression is evident and public. I am not a perfect man, but I try hard to be more then a debby downer, or a pessimist. I believe God has plans for me. I trust that I am where God wants me, the leading question is why? I recently watched God’s Not Dead (3) A Light in Darkness. In that movie I was flooded with feelings of faith that there is a solution to many of our negative outlooks. Love and grace is always the way we as Christians need to behave. So many people are pushed away from the faith because of someone’s actions, or someone’s words. There’s a reason the Apostle Paul remained in Corinth for so long, the darkest of places often require the most work. When we consider hope, we should be looking at Christ as our example. Christ was an amazing man of liberties. Christ not only healed the sick, raised a man from the dead, fed the masses with bread, fish and wine by using Divine power to multiply the food. Not only did he do all that he also spoke out for woman’s rights, and the rights for children. He spoke out for the poor, and the despair of people. If he can bring so much hope to the world, why can’t we live our lives being slow to anger, slow to wrath, and slow to negative actions? We must learn to be better in control of our actions. Yes we’re all human, and we all fall short to the glory of God, but we all need to be a little more like Christ, and a lot less like the world.

I can’t say I’ve always been the best at being the conduit for Christ’s love. When the world beats you down, especially for those in the military, police, emergency services it’s not always easy to stay bright for others. We have to remember that when we are down in our low places someone is there for us. Christ loves us so we are given what we need, when we need it. Christ has a plan for us, and those plans are to prosper not to live in despair. We need God’s grace and we must show why others need God’s grace. Ephesians 2:8-12  (NKJV)8 “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Grace is everything; because it’s through grace we are given the gift of eternal life with Jesus. Light up the dark, and remember always, God’s NOT Dead.

Expectations

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Expectations

Do you ever ask yourself who you’re trying to please or why? People have so many expectations and it’s nearly impossible to meet them. You may meet or exceed them sometimes, maybe even most of the time, but how quickly we as a people judge more harshly in the failures and forget about the successes. We place unfair expectations on people and the moment they make even the slightest of errors they are ousted as friends, or even in marriage. We forget that we are all sinners, and we all make mistakes. Yes some mistakes are worse then others in our point of view, but in God’s eyes they are all equal. There is no sin greater then another. We forget the importance of forgiveness and grace in our lives. We place unfair expectations on people and then get mad when they don’t live up to what we want. How quickly a person will flip flop as the wind blows. Thankfully God doesn’t do that to us.

I can remember my time in security. We would go weeks or months without a single incident, but the moment anything bad happened security was the first to be blamed for not being around to stop it from happening. Weeks or months without any major incidences soon accounted for nothing, but how quickly things changed in the attitudes at work.

I’ve been putting some thought into what I want in a relationship. As I have watched people come and go, it’s dawned on me that this concept of expectations has become one of fragile eggshells. The slightest miss step and the egg breaks, people get angry and walk away. To that end it begs the question, are we loving one another like we are called to in scripture?  We judge other so quickly, often without any background information, or even a moment to clarify what was said or meant. We find in scripture those who judge are actually wrong for doing so. Matthew 7:1-3“Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?”

We as a society, if it weren’t enough to judge so quickly, and flippantly, we not only judge the smallest things, we’ve become a world of shallow physical judgments. While the argument can be made that attraction is important, I submit we have grown to an unhealthy idea of what attractive is and what it isn’t. From movie stars, models, and most others famous people, they now become the standard to what beautiful is. The truth is we are all beautiful. We are wonderfully created by the Lord of the universe. We are special and we must realize that as a pillar of our faith. Christ bled for, died for us, and if we are to be honest about what our expectations should be, it’s simply just to love like scripture commands. It’s time we start to treat people with respect again because we are all the body of Christ connected under the same cross, washed by the same blood.

We must be patient, understanding, and grow closer, not separating over small squabbles. We often miss such amazing blessings because we dismiss others for little to no good reason. Can you take a moment to think what would happen if Christ dismissed us at our slightest transgression? We would have no hope if it weren’t for grace. We are so consumed with “what’s going to work out best for me?” We do this instead of asking what we’re doing, delighting yourself in the Lord! We ought to give grace to others, and take time to truly get to know others, and we need to be patient and stop judging, and placing expectations someone could never live up too. If you’re willing to walk away over the smallest of things, what will happen when someone lets you down with the bigger issues? We are all sinners, we will always fall short, and we must ask ourselves how we would want others to treat us when we falter slightly. Do we want forgiveness, or do we want to be treated in the ways we treat others? Shame on us for being so judgmental that we waiver like a sail in the wind.

It’s so easy to have open and honest communication. It’s so easy to say how we feel when someone lets you down. We don’t live in love even though that’s what we seek. We want others to give us the benefit of the doubt. We want Jesus to show us mercy. Are we living with hearts of mercy, hearts of grace, hearts of love? We aren’t a perfect people, so before you pass judgment on someone quickly, take a moment to think about our expectations and if we are fair and just, or if we are wicked with a cold heart. 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 “Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Grace is something we should all show more often. We must learn how to communicate our feelings rather than walking away. When our actions hurt another person, we must learn that even when Ephesians 4:29 “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” Speech is not the only form of communication. Body language is 70% of communication. When we turn and walk away we are saying a great deal. We must learn to trust in our faith, and we cannot pass judgments on others based on our own past experiences. One thing I see a lot in relationships is how someone brings baggage from their past and place their insecurities on others. We are told not to recluse ourselves, and it’s important to remember that because God wants us to fellowship with other brothers and sisters in Christ. Do not isolate yourself, and do not force isolation on others. Life up and do not tear down.

 

 

God’s In Everything

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God’s In Everything

It’s an amazing feeling knowing that God is in every situation I find myself. Having that faith affirmed is so powerful, I often find it hard to put into words. I know that for whatever reason Christ has a plan for me, a plan to make a difference. I always wanted to make a difference in this world, and after 34 years, a few near death experiences, a few divine interventions, and a whole lot of tears, I finally have made it through the fire to see what all the training was for. In every one of my trials, I have begged God for reasons. Recently I watched as a situation in my life made full circle. A man I never met was at the hospital with my ex-inlaws two years ago. He knew who I was by proxy, and two years later we are united by God’s wonderful plan. I find myself sitting in an office of someone I had never met, but who was praying for me knowing I was gripping to life. How wonderful and small this world is, that in the midst of tragedy God is working things out so out of the ashes a diamond may shine. God waists nothing, and we should remember that it may not be the next day, week, or even a year after a tragedy, but at some point in your life, if you’re walking with Christ, you may find a purpose for it. One day I would like to thank those who were with me this whole week two years ago. I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the hands that helped keep me in this world. I cannot express adequately how I feel, but I know that in my heart, I will be able to honor their service, by serving myself.

Scripture talks about service, and serving others. Luke 6:35 (NKJV) 35“But love your enemies, do good, and lend, [a]hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.” Service is laying yourself down before God and going where you’re wanted. God never needs us, but if we are delighted at the opportunity to be used by Christ, we should feel honored and humbled to do so. Those in ministry rarely get the thanks deserved, the pay equal to the work that goes in, or the honors that ought to be rendered for their sacrifice to selfless service, but at the foot of the cross those works will not go forgotten. When people serve others, no matter if it’s emergency services, military, or ministry, rarely do the affirmations come along, but God gives enough to keep you moving. Serving is not for the faint of heart, and nor is it for the accolades, but once in a while when you hear how the service of Christ has affected another it’s beautiful.

Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)8 “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” We don’t always know where we must go, or what we must do. It’s important to take time to pray about God’s path for us, so we may open our minds, and our hearts to the Holy Spirit, and listen as we are guided along the path. We know from scripture that those who seek power are foolish, and those who choose to serve are the light of the Lord. Matthew 20:28 “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” This sentiment is played out by Christ more then once in scripture. Christ is saying here that anyone who dreams of being first ought to be a slave to the last. In John 13:12-1712 “So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you [b]know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” Jesus shows the disciples that no one is above another. No one is greater then another. This is an act of humility shown to us by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Whether we are serving others or being served by others, we must always remember that anyone we come into contact with is a Child of God and we must act accordingly. Everyone we meet we have an opportunity by divine appointment to show compassion, grace, mercy, and kindness. If we don’t get a chance to talk about Christ we must always be a representative and hold ourselves accordingly. We truly are no better then another even if we think we are. We don’t always know what someone is going through, and we have an opportunity as part of God’s wonderful plan to change someone’s day just by being nice. Someone who didn’t know me two years ago prayed for me, and now two years later, I was in his office talking about a position within the very organization that he runs. We never know how things will turn out, so we must act accordingly in every instance.

 

 

Rising Flood

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Rising Flood

In the last few days we’ve seen an enormous amount of water come from Hurricane Florence. We have seen record numbers and with that comes floodwaters. There’s been so many thousands of lives affected by this storm and while it’s hard to consider, we must try to find the good in this horrific situation. Lives have been lost, businesses and homes have been destroyed, and while it was take years to rebuild the opportunity for our communities to gather together, to praise Jesus, the accept the power of God and know that Jesus is healing hearts all over the East Coast. We must put our faith and our trust in Jesus that even as families start to return home to measure the destructive cost, all is certainly not lost. There’s no way to measure the heartbreak people will feel in the upcoming weeks as the shock wears off and the trust begins to set in. Many will be in denial, or feel the desire to give up. We as Christians must begin to love on these people, give, and grow showing the grace of Jesus Christ. This time of sorrow is a time of healing, but also a time of growth. Wherever two are gathered Christ is there. Hebrews 13:8 (ESV)“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

As Christians we are to follow the Great Commission, to go forth to all of the nations make disciples and baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The greatest commandment given by Christ is love. So at the end of the great comissionsion Jesus says this. Matthew 28:20 (ESV)“Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Jesus is saying teach them all to love. People need to be shown love, now more then ever. Peoples lives are gone, destroyed and as everything they’ve known has crumbled before them, it’s time to show them what a solid foundation looks like so they may have hope in the darkness.

Not everyone is able to give money, or food, or supplies, but we can all give time. We can give time to pray for them. We can help move trash if you can get to the places most affected by this storm. Most importantly though, we can give love and hugs. Emotional support is the most important thing anyone can ever give. God will work out the details for the money and supplies, but showing people we care and they aren’t alone is the most important thing we can do. Compassion will be a high commodity in the weeks to come.

As Florence approached and pounded NC for days, fear was a major part of thousands of lives. As tornado’s touched down near by and affected homes, and lives, more fear floods the cities everywhere. While you watch the news you’ll find organizations such as The Red Cross that have volunteers from all over the country who are in North Carolina helping with relief efforts. With so much help, and love Jesus can be seen all over the area right now. Do not fear because we know that God is still in control. Isaiah 35:4 (NKJV)4 “Say to those who are fearful-hearted, “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, With the recompense of God; He will come and save you.” In the eye of the storm, God is still in control. While rebuilding is difficult, as long as we breathe we are still able to live, to move forward. Joshua 1:9(NKJV) 9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Facing fear in the rising tide is difficult, but we are truly blessed. No matter how bad it seems, trusting in the Lord to give you peace in these trials, because God will always give us what we need, and when we need it. Psalm 23:4 (NKJV)4 “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

As we rebuild and wipe away the debris to expose the strong foundation, the rebuilding stage begins. Let us start building from a place of peace, of love, and hope in Christ. Let us band together to show love and prove that people suffering the most are not alone. The peace and grace given to us by Jesus Christ need to be given to those who may not know Jesus, and those who are suffering so much to see signs of hope. While this was a devastating storm, it could always be worse. Love all, and have faith in God’s plan.