There is a new day coming!

Greetings!

My pastor preached this morning that we are all pregnant…with possibility, with power, and with praise. We cannot look at what the world is doing, and think that it is over…it is not over until God says it is over. Every day there is a shooting somewhere…in places that you would never have imagined. It seems like there is no safe place, but the devil is a liar. The enemy does not get to win. We will not live in fear and oppression…the Bible says that if God is for us …who can stand against us. It also says that we are more than conquerors. Praise God!

I was speaking with one of my besties, and she was saying that she feels like she is coming out from under a cloud. She said she felt like she wanted to quit everything. The funny thing is that I have been feeling the same way. And, I don’t think we are alone. I believe that we are coming out of that dark place...that dry place…that place of intense heat. We not only survived…we thrived. We are stronger, bolder, and more determined than we have ever been. I am so excited about this new season. God has begun to awaken old gifts, and stir up new ones.

I pray for the anointing of the Holy Spirit of God to rise up in this season to push God’s people to higher heights, and greater depths in Him. I pray that God’s glory will fill the earth, and His people will walk boldly into the life God has ordained before the beginning of time. There are a lot of things going on in the earth right now, but none of it can stop…interfere or abort what God has established. Keep holding up the banner.

Until next time…

Be blessed

Imagination...

Greetings!

This is the first weekend of December, and I am beginning to feel the expectation of Christmas in the air. Most people are feeling more festive…nicer…more tolerant than usual. I love this time of year, because people seem to let down their guard more. They allow themselves to dream a little more…to believe a little more…to be more childlike…

When I was young, I used to imagine myself being all kinds of things…a singer (that would not surprise the people I know), a hairdresser, a nurse…the possibilities were endless. The thing is…I have given that up for a reality that leaves me wanting. Who said that I couldn’t be any of those things right now if I wanted to? Why did I give up on my dreams? I believe there are thousands out there just like me...that wake up every day wishing they had done something or could do something different.

Well, this is the season to make it happen. That dream that is deep down inside of you...the one that no matter how hard you try to quench it…will not go away…this is the time. Don’t let your age, or finances, or fear or anything else that tries to dampen your spirit stand in the way. Find out what you need to do…and do it.

In the last blog, I talked about how quickly time is moving. We do not have time to sit and wait for that day….that day is here. God has given us the Holy Spirit to help us, and we need to take advantage of that. He has given us influence, resources, and a limitless amount of imagination. The Bible says that God knew us before we were ever born, and I believe He planted that dream inside of us. That means that if He is the creator of the dream...He is more than able to make that dream come true. 

Until next time…

Be blessed

Don't Wait...

Greetings!

I am so amazed that Thanksgiving is this coming Thursday. I cannot believe how fast time has gone. I know that each day has the same amount of time, but it seems like we just celebrated the New Year, and it is already here again. In my last post, I talked about how tired I am, so I am really looking forward to having a long weekend...

My family celebrates Thanksgiving with our individual families, and then we get our whole family together for Christmas. That may not work for everyone, but that works for us. We sometimes put so much pressure on ourselves to do what everybody else is doing. We want to have the big turkey, with family coming in from out of town, and all the children and grandchildren gathering together at big mama’s house, but it is not like that for everyone. Some of us are dealing with the pain of grief or broken relationships or lost jobs…doing a great big Thanksgiving celebration is not something we are looking forward to, and you know what….it is OK. I have learned that what people think is their business. We cannot live our lives for other people. Life is hectic enough without trying to make someone else happy.

This year, my prayer is that if you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior…that you do that today. He is our source for everything. Do not put it off thinking that you have plenty of time. Time is not promised to anyone. Only God knows how much time we have, and it is in our best interest not to wait. Focus on living the best life you can. Treat everybody right, love hard, give freely, and speak life over your life, and the lives of those around you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Until next time…

Be blessed

I know He's Blessing Me

Greetings!

Lately, I have been running on fumes. It is crazy busy at work, and not only are we working 10-12 hour days, we have a blackout period for the four months preceding Christmas—so, no time off. I am so physically tired that I can’t tell if I am sick, tired or sick and tired. I keep thinking that I must be out of my mind to keep this job, but I am determined to see it through. I know that there is always a lesson in everything. God is in this, and I know He is trying to teach me something…I just have to figure out what it is.

I know…it sounds crazy, but I know He put me in this job and I know when the time is right He will move me. God always has a purpose in everything He does. I am a firm believer that every situation either grows you in an area or shows you who you are. This one, I think is doing both. I have learned so much about myself in this job. I have learned to be more tolerant of people, because I don’t know what they may be going through. I have also learned that I don’t have to do everything perfect. I will make mistakes…sometimes-big ones, and it’s ok. The world didn’t stop, and I didn’t fall into some big abyss.

I also know without a doubt that God loves me, and He would never allow me to be in a situation that is not good for me in some way. So, I am trusting in and leaning on Him. God has given us so much, and I know it is not over until He says it’s over. Our God is in the blessing business, and I know He’s not through blessing me.

Until next time…

Be blessed

The Chosen

Greetings!

Yesterday, I attended a conference, and the theme of the conference was, “God’s Chosen People.” The more I thought about the theme, the more it got into my spirit. We are the chosen. I don’t take that lightly. God has us in the palm of His hand, and nothing can come between us, and the love He has for us. His love conquers all of our doubts, all of our fears, and especially all of our enemies. We are victorious through Christ.

This conference really blessed me, because it came at a time when I needed some encouragement. My ministry is encouraging others. But, this time… I needed to be reminded that if God be for me, no one can stand against me. I needed to remember that the word says that, we are more than conquerors. I needed to hear that in this world, we are going to have troubles, but God has overcome the world. Our God has given us the power and authority to speak life into our own lives. It is good to encourage others, but every now and then, we need to encourage ourselves.

I left that conference motivated to go a little farther…to hold on a little longer. I know God’s plan for my life is in full effect. I may not recognize all of the parts, but I know without a doubt that He is there. That His plan is the plan I want to follow.

Many times, we won’t understand what God is doing, but we can trust that He is working it all out for our good. Don’t try to figure it out. We can rest knowing that God stands with us. We can call on Him, and know with confidence that He hears…and He is there.

Until next time…

Be blessed

Time to Fall Back

Greetings!

I realized this morning that it has been a whole month since I last posted. That is crazy to me! It does not seem possible that time has moved so quickly, and I still feel like I haven't gotten anything accomplished. 

Two things happen in the fall. One is…Thanksgiving. When I was young, this time of year was full of activity and excitement in our home. My mother would have us children cleaning everything in the world that could be cleaned. We had to dust what it seemed like...a thousand knickknacks, polish silverware, and iron tablecloths. All in preparation of what would be the biggest, and “bestest” meal of the year. This was the one holiday you could eat all you want, and nobody cared.

My mother has been gone for many years now, but this time of year still makes me think about her. I realize now that it wasn’t the meal that made me so excited about Thanksgiving….although that was a big plus…it was her. She loved having all of her children around. She would cook so much food that it wasn’t possible to eat it all. For years after she died, we tried to continue doing it, but it just wasn’t the same.

The other thing that happens around this time of year is that time “falls back” one hour, and we get to sleep an extra hour longer. That one day is preparation for what is to come. And, although, I don’t exactly love shoveling snow, I know it is all a part of the order God has put into place. His plan may not always look like the plan we have in mind, but it is always perfect. He supplies our every need. Not sometimes, but all the time. No matter how fast time seems to be moving, or how much we may not be able to get done…we can “fall back” on Him, and not only will He be there…He will also give us rest.

Until next time…

Be blessed 

Pray Believing

Greetings!

God has been really speaking to my heart about prayer and worship. He wants to take us to a completely new level in Him, and I am finding myself so attached to Him. You know the scripture that says we need to pray without ceasing (Thess. 5:17). Lately, all day I have been in constant prayer. He is teaching me what it feels like to be totally dependent on Him. Nothing I have done so far can equal what He is showing me now. Something has shifted…not only in me, but in the hearts of God’s people everywhere. I see the change in the people around me, and it is an awesome thing. We cannot afford to miss what God is trying to show us right now. We have to pray…and believe in the power of our prayer. I want my life to be a sweet smelling savor in the nostrils of God (Eph. 5:2).  I believe that when we pray according to scripture… according to His promise...God will always say “YES!” The enemy wants us to doubt God’s word…

·         If you doubt that Jesus went to the cross

·         If you doubt that He was raised from the dead

·         If you doubt that He now sits on the right hand of The Father interceding for us

·         If you doubt that God loves you with an everlasting love

If you entertain any of those thoughts, then you are entertaining the enemy. Get rid of those negative thoughts. Do not let them have control, because when we do…he wins…and he does not get to win. The Bible says so. The Bible says that when we believe…nothing will be impossible for us. Now, whom do you want to believe?

Until next time...

Be blessed

Harvest Time

Greetings!

This past week, Pope Francis made his first visit to the United States. It has been fascinating to watch. And, for a couple of weeks, people of all races, and denominations were glued to the television to see where he was going, and what he was going to do next. Folks have been nicer, and probably more loving than they have been in a long time. Prayerfully, he will leave a residue of peace and love that will last at least a few days anyway. 

I just saw an interview with a family who drove 13,000 miles to get a personal visit with the Pope, and another group who walked over 100 miles. That people go to those extremes to see someone is amazing. Don't get me wrong, I think it is wonderful that people are flocking to see a man of God. If nothing else comes out of this visit, the fact that God was the focus...even for a little while was awesome.

I pray that God will continue to make His presence known, and that people will be open to learning more about Him. Even though I am not Catholic, I am for anything, and anyone that will bring people closer to God. All of us who profess to love God have to step up. We have to begin to tell others about the redeeming power of the Lord Jesus Christ. We have to be willing to get out of our comfort zones, and talk to people about how good God has been. We can’t afford to be shy when it comes to the salvation of our brothers and sisters. Of course, we can’t force God on anyone…and we shouldn’t…that’s not our job. But we can plant seeds, and if we are good farmers, if we focus more on others than our own comfort, then our work will surely reap a harvest for the Lord.

Until next time…

Be blessed

Transformed

Greetings!

What a blessing it is to be loved by God. His love for us is so amazing. I guess you are wondering what brought all of this on. Well, this week was my visit to Bestowed Blessings.  It is a home for women in transition. I’m not sure that is the correct way to describe it. For me, it seems to be more like a birthing center. It is a place where dreams are re-imagined, and where women can re-group, re-focus, and then re-turn to a place of power and victory...transformed.

Every single time I go there, I am so extremely blessed, and this time was no different. We very seldom meet with the same women longer than one or two visits, which is good, because that means that they have prayerfully moved on to bigger and better things. We visit the home every three months, but we missed our last visit, so it had been six months since our last visit. God had given me a topic to discuss…well, more like a workshop. But, since it had been so long since our last visit, I wasn’t sure the message was still relevant. I kept trying to come up with a new topic, but God was not budging. I am so glad that we were obedient.

I have a co-laborer in this ministry who not only prays for us, she also prays for me. She is a powerful intercessor, and God is doing a mighty work in both our lives in this season. This session was relevant and timely. I guess a better word would be...anointed. Even our arrival was timed. We hardly ever get there at the same time, but on this day, we pulled up together.  As we went through the session, we quickly realized…God was in the midst. His presence was definitely in that place. They were open, receptive…, and ready. God is about to move like never before, and I am so excited about the possibilities.

Until next time…

Be blessed

Stronger than gold

Greetings!

"So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold--though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world"  

--1 Peter 1:6-7

Our faith is important to God. Not for Him, because He already knows who He has called us to be in this life. But, it is for us. Peter is comparing our faith to gold, and if you look at a piece of gold, it looks pretty strong, right? God is saying that our faith is even stronger.

When the refiner purifies gold, he first takes ore, and he puts it in the fire with temperatures somewhere over a thousand degrees. As it melts, all of the impurities rise to the top. The refiner then skims off all the dirt and what is left is pure gold. He sometimes does that over and over until it gets to the place the refiner needs it to be. But, here's the thing, the refiner can't change up the process...it's always the same. He has to use some form of testing...whether it is fire or some other form of heat, something has to be done to bring out the impurities, and that is what God does for us.

He uses the things we go through to bring out the best in us. It may seem like forever...it may seem like you are not going to make it...it may seem like the odds are stacked against you, but hold on...everything has its time and its purpose. Know that God is there with you, and He will always see you through.

Until next time...

Be blessed

The Spirit of Stress

Greetings!

Friday, I went to my first Joyce Meyers meeting. It was awesome. I actually took my husband with me, and he had an awesome time too. She was teaching on stress. I looked at my husband and told him that she must have known I was coming.

For the last couple of years, I have been struggling with overcoming, defeating, casting down, and everything else I could think of to get that spirit of stress off me. And, don’t be fooled…it is definitely a spirit. That thing did not want to let me go, but I was determined that stress was not going to take me out.

When I heard Joyce Meyer speak on stress, something clicked into place. The one thing she said that really stuck with me was that much of the stress we feel is from “choice overload.” We have an abundance of decisions we have to make…sometimes daily. The thing that we need to remember is that we can only do our best when we are focusing on one thing at a time. There will always be stressors in our lives, but we have to know how to handle them. The first thing we need to do is “cast our care.” Let God help us bear the load. He is standing by waiting for us to realize that we can’t do it alone. Ask for His help, and then let Him.

It was nice just to sit and be ministered to without feeling like there was something I should be doing. His favor on our lives is sometimes hard to understand. We don’t deserve anything, but He loves us so much that He looks for ways to bless us. When we acknowledge Him first, He will show up…and show out. Know that it is not about us, but all about Him.

Until next time...

Be blessed

Anchors

Greetings!

For the month of August, my pastor has been doing a series entitled, "Are you anchored in the storms." Fighting through our storms is not a new topic. I’m sure it has been preached many times. But, for some reason it has touched my spirit at just the right time.

God has a way of doing that. Just when you think you can't go any further, He sends you a message to let you know that He is aware of what you are going through. Those "storms"are just perfecting your faith in the God who is more than enough. He can take that little “seed” of faith, and bless you like you never even thought possible. Our God is never far away.

Our anchor scripture came from the Book of Acts, Chapter 27. The chapter says that the men had to throw over four anchors (v 29) to keep the boat from running aground. The storm was so strong that they couldn’t see, so they dropped anchor and prayed for daylight. Our series was based on these four anchors: prayer, fellowship, faith and hope. Each one builds on the other, and if you hold onto these anchors...your "storm" will lose its power. Don’t pull away from your source of power. Our power is in unity. 

The Bible says that one can chase a thousand, but two can chase ten thousand. That’s supernatural multiplication. Even though God is always present, we need each other. The enemy will trick us into believing that people are tired of hearing about our problems. That is a trick. And, because we are hurting we feel like we're being a burden, so we suffer in silence...praying for daylight. Drop anchor. God will line up people just for you. He loves you and wants you healed and whole.

Until next time…

Be blessed

Born Again

Greetings!

I saw a message posted recently that asked a simple question. It said that if you loved the Lord, then respond by praising Him in two words. I looked at some of the responses, and most people could not do it. Some even had whole paragraphs. I thought that was funny, because either they did not care what the person had asked them to do, or they really could not praise God in just two words.

The first thing that came to my mind was my gratefulness to God for my Savior, Jesus Christ. He is my praise. But, that wasn't my response. When I went to post my response what I actually typed was...Born Again, because I am so grateful to God for a second chance.

God, through Jesus Christ, has given us the perfect gift, and with this gift we have been born again. God gives us brand new grace and mercy every single day. The Bible says that old things have passed away. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV). Every day we get a brand new opportunity to get it right, but there is only one way to receive that free gift. We have to first believe, then we have to ask...

If you have never received Jesus Christ as your Savior…pray this prayer of faith…

“I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross, was raised from the dead, and now sits on the right hand of God. Lord, I repent, and ask that you forgive me for my sins. I submit my life to You, and ask that you save me, and make me whole. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”  

It is that simple. You are now born again…welcome to the family!      

Until next time…

Be blessed

Greetings!

There comes a time in everyone’s life when we have to choose which road to take. We can take the easy road, which in my opinion is the best road, or we can take the road less traveled. I like tried and true. Why should I have to reinvent the wheel? If someone has already gone ahead and provided the roadmap, who am I to go against the grain. Maybe it’s not the right time though. What if I made a mistake? I know that if it were for me, then God would have made it happen, right?

Those of us who love our comfort zones commonly use the statements listed above. I have used them…many times. I can say I trust God to make a way…as long as it is comfortable or familiar. I think God is calling us to go to a whole new level in Him…to step out and do something we have always wanted to do, but could never find the guts. Maybe not. That decision is between you and God.

For me, I know it is time. I feel it in that deep part of me that never lies…the part of me that says that I can trust God to be there. We have all made mistakes and most likely will again. We just need to remember that God uses everything…especially our mistakes to either teach us or reach us.  If we make a mistake, it is not the end of the world. We can make one little mistake and still think about it for months—sometimes even years. Instead, we have to learn to let our mistakes activate our faith, and then have confidence that if we take that step, God will be there with us…every step of the way.

Until next time…

Be blessed

Pursuing God

Greetings!

I remember watching the television show, The Wire. One of the things I noticed was how talented and intelligent some of the drug dealers actually were. I know it sounds crazy, but I admired their “stick-to-itiveness.” They never gave up…they believed in what they were doing…as wrong as it was…they were loyal to it. And here’s the thing…they used the same structure and strategies as some of the most successful corporations and business-people...they just chose the wrong path.

Some of us are the same way. We will work overtime, double-time, and all the time, because there is something we want, and we need extra money for it. Maybe it’s a new outfit or a vacation or a new car…something that motivates us to go above and beyond. My question today is…what if we pursued God the same way? What if we gave God the same amount of time we give to focusing on ourselves? I know that I am always trying to figure out how to take a “mental health” day. Why can’t we make God our passion, and have a “God health” day. A day dedicated to loving on God.

Our relationship with God is so important to our overall health. I love that He allows us the ability to choose. It took me a long time, but I finally get it. Choosing is done on purpose. You have to actively think about it, and then take action on it. When we choose to pursue God, we are actively saying, “God, I want you.” Just like it makes us feel good when someone chooses us, it makes God feel good too. He wants us to want Him…not because we have to, but because we want to.

Pursue God. Make Him your passion…it will change your life.

Until next time…

Be blessed

Being Better and Bolder

Greetings!

Summer is in full swing. People are enjoying the warm days...traveling...family reunions. There is nothing like taking the time to unwind...to let go of all the stress of work, and family problems and church obligations. Don't get me wrong...those things don't stop because it's summertime, but days are longer, and it just makes us feel better to get off from work, and still be able to see the sun. We are so rushed most of the time that we forget to take time to just breathe...

 This week, I have been meditating on the goodness of God, and how much He loves us. Whenever I think about God's grace and mercy, it always makes me think about the Psalms.  

The Psalms tell us a lot about relationships, and what loving God requires.  David is one of the greatest examples of what loving God means. David was a long way from perfect, but He loved God, and although He sometimes made mistakes...He never ran from God. He owned up to what he had done by going to God and asking for forgiveness. That takes boldness and confidence...not confidence in us, but in God's love for us. David knew that he was loved by God, and that make him bolder than most.

 In Psalm 18:6, David says he called out to the Lord, and He immediately answered. He not only answered...He delivered him out of his troubles. That is the kind of God our God is. 

Our confidence in God makes our lives better. We can be bold in our prayers, because we know the God we serve hears...and answers. 

Until next time...

 Be blessed

Happy Independence Day!

Greetings!

I thank God for another year, another day, another moment. I don't always show it, but I am so grateful for every opportunity to recognize how blessed I truly am. I don't take His blessings for granted. I know that tomorrow is not promised, and I want God to know that I appreciate His grace and mercy towards me and my family. 

Every year, we celebrate Independence Day by having a family cookout. My whole family gathers at one of the local parks, and spends the day eating, and playing, and reminiscing about old times. It's our way of staying in touch. No matter what's going on, we make it a point to pull aside and be together. And we do it to honor our parents. 

My mother always wanted us to stick together. We have a large family, and it's easy to get so wrapped up in "stuff" that we let those moments pass us by, and she didn't want that to happen. My mother was wise enough to know that we had to make an effort to stay close, because when they were gone...we wouldn't have anybody but each other, and it's up to us to teach our children what family means so that they can carry it forward to the next generation.

So, this year, make some time to be together with your family. Throw a big party, share some stories, make some memories, and love each other hard. Don't waste time being angry about something that happened 10 years ago...it doesn't matter. Whatever it is...don't let it linger. Life is so short, and carrying anger and bitterness is a weight you don't need to carry any further...let it go.

Independence Day is a great time to start fresh. The very name symbolizes freedom, so celebrate freedom today by celebrating family.

Until next time...

Be blessed

Out with the Old

Greetings!

This week, I want to talk about those things that try to come against us. As Christians, we get used to opposition. When we face opposition, it can either grow us or stop us in our tracks. Opposition can even be a good thing when it causes us to stretch ourselves further than we would normally have gone. Sometimes, it just gives us another reason to praise God, because we know that with great opposition come even greater blessings.

But what happens when the opposition comes from someone we love? When it is a child, a spouse, or even a friend…how do we handle that? We do the only thing we can do—we trust God’s word.

The word says, "Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, [and] rivers in the desert." --Isaiah 43:18

God’s word promises to make a way in the wilderness, and having someone you love and care about as your adversary, definitely feels like being in the wilderness. It makes us question not only our judgment, but also our faith. We question why God would allow that kind of pain, and even—why us. There are so many emotions that we hardly have time to process them all. So, how do we pick up the pieces of our broken hearts and move on? God’s word in Isaiah 43 says that if we keep looking forward…to a new day…a new beginning, and stop dwelling on the past, He will show us things we have never seen before.

I am so grateful to God for second chances. He has this way of teaching us by allowing those things that try to come against be stepping stones to where He needs us to be. He lets us know that no matter what has happened in the past...we can start again.

Until next time…

Be blessed

A Father's Love

Greetings!

Today is Father's Day. Hooray for all the dads!

My pastor is on a mission to make this day one of the best holidays ever. It is so funny to hear him talk about how much space is available for Mother's Day, and how fathers get less than half a shelf. Of course, we all know that moms hold a special place in our hearts, but we wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the fathers...right? So, he gets some big props for that!

Without my pastor knowing it, he has actually made this holiday fun for me again. It was difficult after my dad passed away, and sometimes I still have regrets about not visiting him as much as I should have, but I know without a shadow of a doubt that he knew I loved him. I made sure to tell him that whenever we were together. 

My dad was my hero. When I was a little girl, he seemed larger than life, and to me...he could do anything. I miss that. I miss having him around, but I know that he loved the Lord, and it makes me feel better to know that he is with our Father. Whenever I start to feel a little down, I remember the scripture in Psalm 27:10 that says, "When my mother and father forsake me, then the Lord will take me up." That always comforts me, because I know that my Father in heaven will always be around, and He will never pass away.

The awesome thing about that is...whenever I need the physical touch of my dad God always provides that. He is our ever-present help in times of trouble...no matter what that trouble is...He is ever watchful over us. I love knowing that I can depend on Him. He loves me with a love that far surpasses anything that I have ever known...and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Until next time...

Be blessed

Sisters...

Greetings!

Last week, I wrote about a prayer breakfast I attended. For some reason, that prayer breakfast has stuck with me. Maybe it was because I shared that moment with my sisters. Some by blood, and some through The Blood...

I am in awe of how God works. He never ceases to amaze me. Every now and then, He gives me a glimpse of what He's doing, and when He does it always blows my mind. There was no earth-shattering revelations. Just a quiet nudging of the spirit. I have been going through a rough year, and He let me see how blessed I truly am to have family and friends that I love, and who love me. Everything else will fall into place at the appointed time.

The appointed time is what had my mind wandering all over the place. I don't know if I was born old or if the life I have lived have just made me feel old, but worry has always been a part of what I did. Even though I disliked worrying...it felt familiar. It was such a relief to know that when I got saved, Jesus loved me so much that He took on all of my worrying. I no longer had to bear that weight alone, and that it was ok that sometimes I had to give it [worry] to Him daily. I had to learn through trial and error how to rely on God's word to bring me through those times of uncertainty. I thank God that He always watches over us, and that when He needs to He sends us a lifeline...and this time it was being with my sisters.

Just for a little while, I could focus on God's blessings...and not on the tricks of the enemy. No mountain is too big for my God, and because I belong to Him...no mountain is too big for me. God's word says that No weapon formed against me shall prosper. I can trust that, because even though I may not know when He will work it out...I know He will.

Until next time...

Be blessed

Your Gift Brings Liberty

Greetings!

This past weekend I went to a prayer breakfast at my friend's church. I always love going there. The spirit in that church is always so open. I think it is because they welcome displays of praise and worship...they actually encourage it, and where the Spirit of the Lord is...there is liberty. Amen! 

Ever since I started going there, I have always felt welcome...like I was home. God has given the First Lady a vision for seeing the gifts in others. She has called me out of my comfort zone several times. This weekend, she just walked up to people and asked them to sing. I loved it! I tried to get my sister to do it, but she wouldn't...lol.

I love the idea that you can let yourself go in church. That is how it should be. We should all be able to hone our gifts in church...or just let it all go for the Lord. We put way too much pressure on ourselves and others to be perfect. There is no perfect on this side. We should strive to always do our best...especially for God, but we can't be so caught up on doing it perfect that we miss the move of God. 

There is a freedom in walking in the gifts God has given us, and it should be encouraged. It brings us joy, and I believe it brings God joy. We are supposed to share our gifts and talents for the Lord. When we hold back our gifts, the body of Christ suffers. Someone needs what you have, and if you are so afraid of making a mistake that you never even try...then something is wrong. Encourage someone you know to release that gift and bless the people of God. Psalm 126:2 says, "Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them." 

Until next time...

Be blessed

Triumphant

Greetings!

Praise be to God who always causes us to triumph --2 Corinthians 2:14

Always. Every situation, every problem, every concern is God's opportunity to show us not only who He is, but also who we are in Him. The favor of God is on the lives of His children. Our problems will never triumph over us. God has given us the victory. We are triumphant. Not because we are so great, but because HE is so good. He will never let anything happen that is not working for our good. That is His promise.

We are coming up on Memorial Day. One of the holidays, we have set aside to honor those in military who have died to ensure our freedom. These brave men and women gave their lives to protect ours. That's love. They did it not even knowing who we were...not many people would do that. We take this freedom for granted. We cannot watch the news, and shake our heads at the turmoil in other countries. It is not their problem...it is all of our problem. If there is anyone...anywhere who needs comfort, food, peace...it affects us all. These "heroes" in the military deserve our praise for continuing to fight...for us.

But, there is another. One who deserves our praise. One who also gave His life to purchase our freedom. He did it because He knew us. Even though He knew that, some would dishonor Him, reject Him, abuse Him, and ignore Him. Knowing that most of the time, we wouldn't even acknowledge Him. He has the name that is above every name. At His name even the demons tremble...His name is Jesus...He is the Savior of the world. And we praise Him for His sacrifice, and for His undying love for us.

This Memorial Day, remember all of those who have or will put their lives on the line for us...and when you see someone in the military...thank them for their service. And  don't forget to thank THE ONE who paid it all...our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. In Him, we will always be triumphant!

Until next time...

Be blessed 

Stop faking it

Greetings!

Tomorrow is Mother's Day. I had actually forgotten about it. I have mixed feelings about this holiday. I was not blessed to have children, and my mother passed away when I was nineteen. So, to say this holiday can just pass me by is an understatement. Now, don't get me wrong...I'm not hating on people who are blessed to have children and a mama who is still among the land of the living. I think that's wonderful. I'm just saying for me, it has become just another day.

I know admitting that may not be popular with some folks. They may not understand that saying that is freeing for me. I am at a point in my life when I don't feel like faking it. I have to be honest with me, and I want to be honest with you. I want you to know that sometimes I hurt when I think about being childless, and that although it has been 30 years, sometimes I still want to lay my head in my mother's lap. The enemy wants us to keep pretending that everything is great when inside we hurt. But, I have learned that in order to be healed, I have to own up to those feelings. I have to expose them, so that they can no longer hold me captive.

That is one of the reasons I love the Lord so much...I can stop faking it with Him, because He knows me better than I even know myself. God has given me a permanent family in Him, and because of that...I will never be alone. It doesn't matter what I do or do not have. I am whole and complete in Him. His word says that when I do what is right, I will lack no good thing, and because His plan for me is perfect...I have everything I need. Thank you, Jesus! 

Until next time...

Be blessed

Better Days

Greetings!
 
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."  --John 16:33

We live in a sin-sick world, and bad stuff is going to happen, but we can't lose heart. Better days are on the way! God's word says that He is in control. He owns the day. And, here is the thing...God gives us free will, we have a choice in how we conduct our lives. We can live a life that is wrapped up in the Lord, or we can live a life that is wrapped up in the things of this world. God's desire is that we choose wisely...that we choose life...

There is so much anger, and frustration in our world today. People feel that they are not being heard...that their needs are not being met, and that society has forgotten about them or wants to forget about them, but they are not forgotten. God loves all of us, and if no one else is for us...He is, and if He is for us, nothing can stand against us. God says that in Him is not only life, but life more abundantly. When we really trust God, there is a place in Him where there is this unexpected joy. This place where the cares of this world are resting at the feet of our Lord...where we can be assured that our lives matter, and that our voices are being heard. But, it can only happen when we surrender it all to Him.

Keep praying. Our prayers have power, and it is one of our most powerful weapons. God hears the prayers of His people, and He not only hears...He moves. We can't give up. We have to keep believing that God is in control, and that He knows the way. Keep looking up, and know that better days are ahead.

Until next time...

Be blessed

Rainbow

Greetings!

This is one of my favorite times of the year. The trees are beginning to bud, and the grass needs to be mowed again. Folks are coming out of their homes, and there is a spirit of renewal in the air...it's Spring! It seemed like a long time coming, but it is finally here, and I couldn't be happier about it. Spring is my favorite because it is a time of renewing and refreshing. It's like having a do-over...every year. I love God, and everything He does is good...even winter. 

It's awesome how our lives mirror the seasons. I used to want to live in a place where it was warm all the time, but I think I need to have the change of the seasons. The seasons give us a chance to re-group...to catch our breath. Genesis 8:22 says, "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease." He also gave us a rainbow to show that the storm was over. That rainbow says that we will always have periods of rest.

I recently wrote about the seasons, and how much I enjoy living in a place that allows me to enjoy them. That is not entirely true. Although, winter plays a necessary part in the cycle of life, it is not always so easy to live through. It is cold, and dark, and sometimes it can be really harsh. That's how life is. Sometimes, it can be hard to endure, but God promises that if we hang in there, and keep looking up, at the end of our storm...we will see our rainbow. 

That is God's promise...trust that the God who made the seasons also made you, and just like the Ark, we were built to endure.

Until next time...

Be blessed

Cast Your Care

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. –1 Peter 5:7

I heard a teaching on this recently, and what the preacher said was that we needed to cast our care because it really doesn’t make sense to worry about it. He said he doesn’t even tell people to “take care” because we shouldn’t be taking care, we should be casting our cares. Here’s the thing…in order to cast your care though you have to believe that God can handle it.

I thought that was good, because I never thought about it like that before…we should be aware of the things we speak out of our mouths. It may seem like a little thing, but everything matters. The things we speak, the way we live, even how we praise and worship. I shouldn’t be so concerned with what you think of me that I can’t  throw up my hands in the supermarket, or run around the church a couple of times when the spirit hits me and even when it doesn’t...do it because it just feels good sometimes to let it go. 

Casting your care means you are not going to be bound by people, or situations, or circumstances. It says that this thing that is happening to me is not bigger than my God. It says that I am going to stand on His promises because He has never lied to me…I can trust that if He says it….He will bring is to pass. And even if He doesn’t make it happen, then I trust that it wasn’t what He wanted for me. Our time is not like God’s time, and we can’t get frustrated and give up because it’s not happening as fast or in the way we would like. The song says, God never fails....and you know what...He never will. 

Until next time...

Be blessed

Teach me, Lord!

Greetings!

“Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” – Psalm 90:12, NIV

Every single day is a gift from God. No matter if it is a good day or a bad day…it is still a God day. We get so busy with life sometimes that we forget what is important.

It’s not that you couldn’t find anything to wear, or you didn’t have the breakfast you wanted, or somebody didn’t speak to you or smile at you. If we allow them to, those little things will rob us of our joy.

And, I know some of you are probably saying, “My issues are much bigger than that. If that’s all I had to worry about my life would be awesome.”  Even if that is so…if that thing is taking your mind off the power and the presence of God…then you still have some work to do. Stuff is going to happen. That’s how life is. But, our God says that His strength is made perfect in weakness. Someone texted me recently that, “If you know that God has His hands in everything, then you can leave everything in His hands.” I thought that was so good. We have to remember that God ordains each day. If we choose to focus on the wrong things, we will miss the blessing that each day brings.

Today, don’t let the precious moments of life pass by without acknowledging the awesomeness of our God. Don’t wait for holidays and birthdays to show people that you care. Remember, each day is unique and irreplaceable. Know that our time that can be invested or wasted; hours that can be used or misused. That’s why the psalmist prayed to God, “Teach us to number our days.” He was saying, “Teach us to value every moment we have been given.”

Until next time...

Be blessed

Victory

Greetings!

"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. --2 Corinthians 2:1

We have the victory! God's word says we do, and He cannot lie. The enemy will try to lead us to believe something different, but the people of God know the truth. Everything that happens has its purpose and its plan.God will always cause us to triumph. We can believe that no matter what happens God will use everything for our good.. He will not waste an opportunity.

It seems that lately I have been saying that a lot, but that is because this season has been a difficult one for me, and for a lot of folks. I know that I have to remind myself...sometimes over and over until it gets down in my spirit. I don't want anything to be a part of me that is not a part of God, so I speak healing and restoration over my life and over yours both now and in the future. I know that God has a good plan for the life of His children, and we have to be determined not to let anything or anyone keep us from it.

We are well into the season of Lent...when God's people begin looking toward the cross. That is where Christians first realized true victory, and where Jesus Christ defeated death so that we could all have eternal life. The shed blood of Jesus, made us pure in God's sight so that He no longer recognized our sin. It cleansed us so that we could be reconciled back to Him. For that alone--we owe Him everything.

I thank God for that, because even though we may not be able to see it right now, we have the promise in His word that victory belongs to us...

Until next time...

Be blessed

God is there

Greetings!

"But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm." --Proverbs 1:33

Our God is faithful to fulfill all of His promises. If we stay close to God's word, and follow His way, He promises to give us peace. And not only to give us peace, but to comfort our minds and our spirits so that we do not even have to live in fear of harm. I believe that to be true. If God made the heavens and the earth, what is it that He can't do, and what is it that He won't do for us? 

We can be in the midst of the worst trial of our lives, and have perfect peace. Not because we are unrealistic, but because we have trust in the One who is faithful. He will never let us down. 

Lately, I have been evaluating my life, and wondering why I am who I am and I am where I am. When I started looking at my life in the natural, it didn't quite stack up to what I had envisioned. I realized that what I was doing was exactly what the enemy wanted me to do. He wanted me to believe that my life had little meaning....and that I had made so many wrong turns that even God was tired...and to be honest, for a second...I believed him. 

Thank God for the Holy Spirit. He began to rise up in me to let me know that the things I was meditating on were not from God. He let me know that I was God's masterpiece, and that He loved me...mistakes and all. He let me know that I didn't have to worry about my life, because wherever I am...in whatever stage I am in...God is there. And you know what...that's enough for me. 

Until next time...

Be blessed

Seasons

Greetings!

I am not sure what part of the world you are living in, but on the east coast, we have been experiencing an interesting winter. One day, it is raining and º50 degrees, the next it is snowing and º3 degrees, and even though it can be inconvenient…I would not have it any other way. I live in a place where I can enjoy all four seasons. I like knowing that in the summer, I can look forward to sitting under a tree enjoying the breeze while sipping on a nice cold glass of iced tea, and at some point during the winter months—there will be snow.

Our lives are like the seasons. To me, snow is just a sign that spring is on the way. We will have peaks and valleys, but with each season, with each trial, there will always be some residue left behind…something that says a new day is here.  God allows the seasons in our lives to prepare us for what lies ahead. He wants us to know that anything is possible with Him, and that if we keep our minds fixed on Him, He will show us the way. Through the Lord, we learn that if we just hold on…with each trial, there will be a triumph.

The promise I want to deal with today is the promise that nothing is too hard for our God. The scripture says, “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27) As difficult as it seems sometimes, know that you are special in God’s eyes, and He loves you passionately. Jesus Christ proved that at the cross, and God wouldn’t have sent His Son if you and I were not worth it. We just have to believe it….

Until next time…

Be blessed

Joy

Greetings!

What a week! I don't know about you, but this has been a long week, or at least it seemed like it. I typically try not to speed up time by praying for the weekend, because time goes fast enough on its own. But, this week I prayed...a lot and not just for the week to be over.

Can I just say again how grateful I am for God's love, and for how He loves us. Without Him our lives would be so...pitiful. But, even in that God works it all out so that everything we go through will be used for our good. The word says that God knew us and planned our ending even before our beginning. I love knowing that the trials of this world have a purpose...it makes it all a little easier to bear.

The promise I want to focus on this time is the promise of  joy. The Bible says, "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore." (Psalm 16:11) I love David, because he knew how to worship and praise the Lord. He made some mistakes...big ones, but he knew how to go to God and ask for forgiveness. He learned that trying to hide from God was pointless, so  He went to the one he knew could do something about his situation.

Every now and then, God gives us a glimpse of the plan He has for us. I think He does that to encourage us...to let us know that all of this is leading to something greater. God promises that if we stay close to Him, we will have joy "forevermore." At His right hand there is power, and He is promising that we have the power to not only overcome, but to have joy in the process.

Stop looking at your problems and know that you serve a God of greater.

Until next time...

Be blessed

Love Like God Loves

Greetings!

February is not only the month we celebrate Black History month, it is also the month when we celebrate love. That's awesome, because that lines up with what God has been showing me about His promises. One of His commandments is that we first love Him, and that we love one another. If we do that, God promises to hear our prayers. I don't know about you, but I want God to hear my prayers. I want Him to be pleased with me...I want to make Him smile.

The scripture I want to raise up today is from 1 John 3:22, "And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight." That's His promise...not because He has to, but because He loves us and He wants to bless us. Following God's commandments bring rewards. But here's the thing...God knew it would be too hard for us to do it alone, so He sent us some help.

He first sent His Son, Jesus Christ to be our example. Jesus showed us what it was like to live a life that was totally sold out to God. Jesus faced many trials, but His faith never wavered. He believed that no matter what...if He kept His focus on God, He would bring Him out. Then, when Jesus ascended into Heaven, He left us the Holy Spirit. And when we allow Him, the Holy Spirit prompts us, guides us, and speaks to us. Sometimes, we try to go it alone...to operate in the flesh...to do what we want to do. But, even in those times, the Lord keeps us. It's not always easy, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can do anything.

So, this month let's try to love one another with God's love. God's love is the kind of love that encourages, blesses, promotes, covers, and embraces. His love doesn't expect...it just gives. If we begin to keep God's commandments, then the word says that whatsoever we ask, we will receive.

Until next time...

Be blessed

God's Promise

Greetings!

Let me tell you...praying and focusing on God's promises is powerful. I pray that you embrace God's promises, and claim them as your own. I was reading some of God's promises, and I came across this one in Isaiah that says, "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." (Isaiah 46:4). Wow! How can we read that and not believe that we have the victory. Nothing can stand in the way of what God has purposed for our lives. He is the Great I AM, and nothing is too hard for Him. The more I meditate on that word, the stronger I feel.

For years, I have tried to make things happen. I really felt like I had to be somebody for God, that He couldn't possibly be pleased with me...not as much as I messed up. But I had it all wrong. I didn't have to BE somebody for God...I AM somebody to God. God loves me...as crazy as I sometimes can be. There is no mistake so big that God can't forgive, and if I didn't know it before this scripture proves it to me now.

The promise I want to focus on this week is the promise that says God will strengthen us. We may feel like our problems or situations are going to overtake us, but if we don't give up...if we hold on to God's promise that He will sustain us...that He will rescue us....then God will use those times to grow us. God uses every opportunity to show us who we can be in Him. We can trust The Creator who created us. He will never relax His hold on us...

Until next time...

Be blessed

Greetings!

This week, our promise is in Psalm 23:1, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want" Some versions say, "I lack nothing." I think I like that better, because when we make the Lord the head of our lives, we will lack nothing. We may "want" some things...but nothing we really need.

For some reason, thinking abut this promise made me think about friendships, and how even through the Lord is a friend "at all times," He has made us to need each other. The Bible says, 'A threefold cord is not easily broken. "We can't handle this world alone, and we weren't meant to. We grow, and are strengthened through our relationships with one another.

I thank God for the people He places in our paths. Those people who hold us up, and pray for us. Those people you can lean on in good times and bad times. I think God has given everyone at least one “ride or die” friend. That friend that won’t co-sign your foolishness, but they will be there when you need them. I believe that is one of God’s gifts to us.

I thank Him also because He leads us and guides us and sometimes He even hides us. He keeps us in spite of us.  We may make mistakes, but it is good to know that God doesn’t hold them against us. In Psalm 103:12, it says that God remembers our sins no more, "As far as the east is from the west." That means that whatever we have done even the things we may do in the future...we are forgiven. We can't let the enemy mess with our minds. God loves us, and every day He gives us new mercy, new hope, new grace, and a new beginning...

Until next time...

Be blessed

Greetings!

Last week I posted on God’s promise that we are more than conquerors. I believe God is leading me in that direction this year. Although I know in my heart that God’s promises belong to all of us, I haven’t been living as if I believe it. I have been writing about it, thinking about it, and speaking it over the lives of others, but I have been living this weak worn out life. And, God is saying enough is enough. He is showing me that my strength comes from Him, and that I will never walk in His promises if I can’t see past what I perceive to be my failures. The one thing the Lord has shown me is that when I begin to speak His word into the atmosphere…things change. It’s no longer about my issue—it’s about my God. He is God, and He can move mountains!

My mission this year is to press in until His promises are so real in my life that I can’t breathe without calling one to mind…

This week the promise He is showing me is the one that says God will meet all of our needs. In Philippians 4:19 it says, “And, my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” This scripture says to me that if we have Christ Jesus…we never have to worry about ANYTHING. God will take care of our needs…all of them. Not because we have been so good, but because we have the Son, and if we have the Son…He has us.

God loves us, and He has given us grace enough to handle whatever we go through. As hard as it may be, we have to take our hands off our situation and trust our God to fix it. Praise Him for the victory, because in the end…we win.

Until next time…

Be blessed

Happy New Year Everybody!

I am so excited about what God is doing in this new year. This year, we are moving forward into our purpose and claiming all the promises that belong to us. If God could take time to breathe the word of life into His prophets for us…the least we can do is walk in them. Everything that happened last year is behind us, and a new day is here. God is in the blessing business, and I want everything that He wants for me. We have the opportunity to begin again, and I do not want to blow it. Our church theme this year is, “Living in the FOG (Favor of God).”  For me, living in His favor means that I am in the center of His will, and that I not only know His promises for my life, but I am also living His promises.

This week, I want to focus on the promise that says we are more than conquerors. One of my favorite scriptures is from the Book of Romans, and it says, "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:37-39).

Being more than conquerors says that we know whatever happens; God has already worked it out. It says that nothing…no problem, no situation, and no concern can come between the relationship that we have with the Lord. He has to be number one, because when He has first place in our lives, we never have to worry about the outcome, because God holds the outcome in His hands.

Until next time…

Be blessed