Iron Sharpeneth Iron

Friday, April 24, 2009

TEST FOR FALSE PROPHETS

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ I pray that this test will be a blessing to you and you loved ones. It will assist you in revealing false teachers and false teachings against the Word of God as revealed in the King James Bible. A Prophet is a person who speaks from God through divine direction and a false prophet is a person who does NOT speak from God through divine direction. One "yes" answer to any of these questions proves that the teacher is a false teacher, and his instruction should be disregarded. Here are 32 Characteristics of False prophets to start the test with.

1. STRENGTHEN: Acts 15:32
2. DEFINE GOD'S WILL: Acts 13:1-3
3. PREDICT THE FUTURE: Acts 21:10,11
4. CENTERED IN CHRIST: Luke 10:24
5. INTERPRETED BY CHRIST: Luke 24:27, 44; Isaiah 7:14; 2 Sam 7:16; Deut 18:20, 22; Deut 7:13
6. UNITED IN TESTIMONY: Acts 3:21-24
7. CONTAINS GRACE AND SALVATION: 1 Pet 1:9-12
8. ABIDING REVELATION: Matt 5:17-20
9. INSPIRED BY THE SPIRIT: 2 Pet 1:21-2:2
10. NOT OF ONE'S OWN INTERPRETATION: 2 Pet 1:20
11. ALWAYS RELEVANT: Rev 22:10
12. MUST NOT BE CHANGED BY MAN: Rev 22:18,19
13. INSPIRATION: Micah 3:8
14. FOREKNOWLEDGE: Is 42:9
15. NON-FULFILLMENT: Jer 28:1-13
16. PEACEFUL MESSAGE: Jer 23:9-40
17. APOSTASY FROM GOD: Deut 13:1-5
18. LYING: Jer 23:25-40
19. SCOFFING: 2 Pet 3:3,4
20. UNCONDITIONAL: Ezek 12:25-28; Ezek 13: 1-9
21. SOMETIMES CONDITIONAL: Jonah 3:1-10
22. DATED: Dan 9:24-27
23. NON-LITERAL: Matt 17:10-12
24. UNRECOGNIZED BY JEWS: Acts 13:27-29
25. INTERPRETATION OF, NEEDED: Luke 24:25-44
26. OFTEN REFERRED TO: Matt 1:22,23
27. DOCTRINE: Is 8:19, 20
28. PROPHECIES: 1 Kin 13:1-32
29. LIVES: Matt 7:15-20; Matt 24:1; Matt 24:24; Act 13:6-8; Jer 6:13; 1 John 4:2; Acts 20:29-30; Ezekiel 22:28; Matt 15:16; Gal 5:18-22
30. PROPHESY PEACE: Jer 23:17
31. TEACH A LIE: Jer 28:15
32. PRETEND TO BE TRUE: Matt 7:22,23
33. TEACH CORRUPTION: 2 Pet 2:10-22
34. IN THE LAST DAYS: Matt 24:11

1. STRENGTHEN: Acts 15:32
1. Does the prophet speak secretly, without strong argument, numerous words, advice or appeal to his listeners?
2. Does the prophet fail to assure, uphold, sustain or strengthen his listeners?

2. DEFINE GOD'S WILL: Acts 13:1-3
3. Does the prophet minister for anyone other than the Lord Jesus Christ?
4. Does the prophet seem to obtain divine revelations without the necessary worship and sacrifice required by LORD GOD?
5. Does the prophet fail to acknowledge the Holy Spirit's inspiration in his revelations?
6. Does the prophet avoid the laying on of hands in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ?
7. Does the prophet fail to pray or fast?

3. PREDICT THE FUTURE: Acts 21:10,11
8. Does the prophet fail to make specific and illustrated predictions of future events?

4. CENTERED IN CHRIST: Luke 10:24
9. Does the prophet appear to have a knowledge about all things without Jesus Christ being in the center?

5. INTERPRETED BY CHRIST: Luke 24:27, 44; Isaiah 7:14; 2 Sam 7:16; Deut 18:20, 22; Deut 7:13
10. Does the prophet believe other's revelations without study and a confirming interpretation by Christ?
11. Does the prophet speak words which are not in accordance with the law, prophets, and psalms in the Scriptures?
12. Is the prophet unable to understand Scriptures?
13. Does the prophet show a lack of knowledge concerning Jesus Christ or Scriptures?
14. Does the prophet speak incorrectly about Jesus' birth?
15. Does the prophet speak against the relationship of the Jews to the LORD GOD?
16. Does the prophet speak in the name of other gods?
17. Does the prophet's predictions NOT come true after speaking in the name of the LORD GOD?
18. Does the prophet speak presumptuously (unduly or overbearingly confident), take for granted or take liberties?
19. Does the prophet question the fulfillment of the second coming of Jesus Christ?

6. UNITED IN TESTIMONY: Acts 3:21-24
20. Does the prophet contradict the testimony of other prophets since the world began?
21. Does the prophet give credit to anyone but God for what his mouth speaks?
22. Does the prophet speak against the restitution (restoration) of all things as spoken in the Scriptures?

7. CONTAINS GRACE AND SALVATION: 1 Pet 1:9-12
23. Does the prophet fail to inquire and search diligently for truth?
24. Does the prophet fail to make salvation the object of prophecy?
25. Does the prophet speak for his own uses or glory, and fail to consider the listeners?
26. Does the prophet attempt to keep all that is revealed to himself, and refuse to minister others with the new revelations?
27. Does the prophet preach the gospel on his own without the assistance of the Holy Ghost?

8. ABIDING REVELATION: Matt 5:17-20
28. Does the prophet insist upon the strict adherence of law and righteous behavior rather than the inner spiritual intentions of the LORD GOD?
29. Does the prophet insist that the law of Moses is no longer applicable since the fulfillment of Jesus Christ?
30. Does the prophet change even "one jot or one tittle" (the most minute letter or mark) of the law?
31. Does the prophet teach man to break one or any of the least commandments of God?

9. INSPIRED BY THE SPIRIT: 2 Pet 1:21-2:2
32. Does the prophet give credit for his prophecy to anyone other than the Holy Ghost?
33. Does the prophet privately bring in damnable heresies (destructive opinion or doctrine that goes against the LORD GOD’s Word)?
34. Does the prophet experience destruction because he is deceived by his own teaching and continues to reject the way of truth?
35. Does the prophet evilly speak against the Way of Truth?

10. NOT OF ONE'S OWN INTERPRETATION: 2 Pet 1:20
36. Does the prophet indicate that his divine revelation of the scripture is a private interpretation?

11. ALWAYS RELEVANT: Rev 22:10
37. Is the prophet's revelations of the Word of the LORD GOD not always relevant (applicable, appropriate, fitting)?

12. MUST NOT BE CHANGED BY MAN: Rev 22:18,19
38. Does the prophet add unto the Word of the LORD GOD, and include things not spoken of in Scripture?
39. Does the prophet take away from the Word of God, and exclude things spoken of in Scripture?

13. INSPIRATION: Micah 3:8
40. Does the prophet's revelation lack the power, judgment and might of the spirit of the LORD GOD?

14. FOREKNOWLEDGE: Is 42:9
41. Does the prophet provide revelation of former things which have come to pass, rather than new things?

15. NON-FULFILLMENT: Jer 28:1-13
42. Does the prophet's revelations fail to come to pass?
43. Does the prophet predict peace following the fulfillment of a legitimate prophet's revelations?

16. PEACEFUL MESSAGE: Jer 23:9-40
44. Is the prophet profane (characterized by irreverence or contempt for the LORD GOD or sacred principles or things, unholy, heathen, common, vulgar, blasphemous, sacrilegious, low, mean, base)?
45. Is the prophet wicked in the House of the LORD GOD?
46. Does the prophet's way seem "slippery in darkness" (tending to shift positions, fickle, shifty, unstable, insecure with a lack of knowledge or enlightenment)?
47. Has God brought disaster and evil upon the prophet?
48. Is the prophet foolish, absurd, unwise, whimsical or extravagant?
49. Does the prophet commit adultery and walk in lies?
50. Does the prophet strengthen the hands of evildoers, preventing them from turning from wickedness?
51. Does the prophet make his listeners vain (without real significance, value or importance; baseless, worthless)?
52. Does the prophet speak a vision out of his own heart, rather than from out of the mouth of the LORD GOD?
53. Does the prophet promise peace to his listeners?
54. Does the prophet tell his listeners that no evil shall come to them?
55. Does the prophet encourage his listeners to walk after the "imagination of his own heart" (do what makes you feel good)?
56. Does the prophet fail to turn the LORD GOD’s people from their evil way, and from the evil of their doings?

17. APOSTASY FROM GOD: Deut 13:1-5
57. Does the prophet present signs or wonders for the worship of other gods?
58. Does the prophet encourage his listeners to not walk after the LORD GOD, not to fear Him, not to keep his Commandments, not to obey His voice, not to serve Him, or not to cleave unto Him?

18. LYING: Jer 23:25-40
59. Does the prophet speak falsely in the LORD GOD’s name?
60. Does the prophet focus more on the act of "dreaming" rather than the Word of the LORD GOD that is intended?
61. Does the prophet lack confidence in the speaking of the LORD GOD’s Word?
62. Does the prophet steal the LORD GOD’s Words from his neighbor?
63. Does the prophet use his "own tongue" and attribute it to the LORD GOD?
64. Does the prophet use false dreams to cause the LORD GOD’s people to err by their lies?
65. Is the prophet reckless and light, unconcerned about the consequences of his action?
66. Is the prophet "burdened" (that which is borne with difficulty, obligation or trouble) by the LORD GOD’s Words or even his own words?
67. Does the prophet "pervert" (misinterpret, distort, corrupt, mislead, defile) the Words of the living LORD GOD?
68. Has God brought an "everlasting reproach" (blame) and a "perpetual shame" (disgrace) upon the prophet that will never be forgotten?

19. SCOFFING: 2 Pet 3:3,4
69. Does the prophet scoff (an expression of mockery, derision, doubt, behaving with scornful disapproval) about the last days (end times)?
70. Does the prophet encourage listeners to ignore "last days" prophesy, in favor of "stable as she goes, everything is as it always was" prophecy?

20. UNCONDITIONAL: Ezek 12:25-28; Ezek 13: 1-9
71. Does the prophet's divine revelations prolonged (take place in times far off), rather than immediate?
72. Does the prophet prophesy out of his own inspiration?
73. Does the prophet deny visions (a beneficial and meaningful event that appears vividly and credibly to the mind under the influence of the LORD)?
74. Does the prophet attempt to whitewash the severely cracked walls of his listeners, rather than filling in the gaps with the Word of God?
75. Does the prophet's vanity and lying divinations (futile and false attempts to foretell future events or discover hidden knowledge by occult or supernatural means) make others to hope that it would confirm God's Word?
76. Is the prophet outside the assembly of God's people?
77. Is the prophets writing deliberately excluded from the record?
78. Is the prophet denied entry into the land of Israel?

21. SOMETIMES CONDITIONAL: Jonah 3:1-10
79. Does the prophet discredit other prophets who speak divine revelations in a specific event, rather than a lifetime career?

22. DATED: Dan 9:24-27
80. Does the prophet's 'divine' revelations occur outside the seventy weeks spoken in Daniel?

23. NON-LITERAL: Matt 17:10-12
81. Does the prophet stick to the strict meaning of the LORD GOD’s Word, neglecting the figurative, metaphorical or mysteries revealed?

24. UNRECOGNIZED BY JEWS: Acts 13:27-29
82. Do the Jews accept the prophecies and doctrine of Jesus Christ as explained by the prophet?

25. INTERPRETATION OF, NEEDED: Luke 24:25-44
83. Does the prophet fail to use Christ to expound scripture?
84. Does the prophet oppose understanding of the scriptures among his listeners?
85. Does the prophet fail to have an understanding or acceptance of the fulfillment of all things concerning Christ which "were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets and in the psalms"?

26. OFTEN REFERRED TO: Matt 1:22,23
86. Does the prophet deny the virgin birth of our Jesus Christ?
87. Does the prophet fail to refer to the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ?

27. DOCTRINE: Is 8:19, 20
88. Does the prophet encourage his listeners to seek those with familiar spirits (well acquainted and intimate associations with the dead spirits)?
89. Does the prophet encourage his listeners to seek the whispered and muttered words of wizards (male soothsayers - persons who foretell events)?
90. Does the prophet use anything other than "the law and testimony" (LORD GOD’s Word) as the basis for interpreting a claim to divine revelation?

28. PROPHECIES: 1 Kin 13:1-32
91. Does the prophet fail to predict events in the future that only the living sovereign LORD GOD could inform?
92. Does the prophet's sign denoting a miraculous event fail to produce an effect of wonder on those who behold it?
93. Does the prophet's sign fail to use the LORD GOD’s Words in revealing the effect?
94. Does the prophet fail to accomplish what the LORD GOD has tasked him to do?
95. Is the prophet easily swayed by other prophets?
96. Does the prophet experience a sudden, violent and painful death?

29. LIVES: Matt 7:15-20; Matt 24:1; Matt 24:24; Act 13:6-8; Jer 6:13; 1 John 4:2; Acts 20:29-30; Ezekiel 22:28; Matt 15:16; Gal 5:18-22
97. Does the prophet mislead others in believing his character or intentions or beliefs are something they are not?
98. Does the prophet's work produce less than the fruits of the Holy Spirit (love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control)?
99. Does the prophet mislead many?
100. Does the prophet mislead using great signs and wonders?
101. Does the prophet try to turn listeners away from the faith?
102. Is the prophet greedy for gain, never having enough money, prosperity, prestige, people, etc.?
104. Does the prophet speak perverse things (deliberately departing from what is reasonable; stubborn; self-willed)?
105. Does the prophet have false vision (saying it's from God) and leading people into wrong doings?
106. Does the prophet have followers who's deeds are of the flesh (immortality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, strife, jealousy, wrath, disputes, dissension, heresies, envying, drunkenness, carousing)?

30. PROPHESY PEACE: Jer 23:17
107. Does the prophet speak of future peace to those who follow after the imagination of their own heart?

31. TEACH A LIE: Jer 28:15
108. Does the prophet lead others to trust in lies rather than the Word of God by making the teachings of lies more comfortable to the listeners than the truthful teachings of our LORD GOD?
109. Does the prophet teach rebellion against the LORD GOD?

32. PRETEND TO BE TRUE: Matt 7:22,23
110. Does the prophet prophesy, cast out devils and perform wonderful works in Jesus' name, without being known by Jesus?

33. TEACH CORRUPTION: 2 Pet 2:10-22
111. Does the prophet walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness (sexual promiscuity)?
112. Does the prophet hate authority?
113. Is the prophet presumptuous (impertinently bold)?
114. Is the prophet self-willed (selfish, stubborn and obstinate)?
115. Does the prophet speak evil of dignitaries (persons who hold high rank or office)?
116. Does the prophet live in a natural life, displaying characteristics of a brute beast (brutal, insensitive, crude, irrational, savage, cruel, carnal, sensual, and animal like)?
117. Does the prophet speak evil of the things that he does not understand?
118. Is the prophet perishing in his own corruption (moral perversion and depravity?
119. Does the prophet enjoy reveling (to make merry, boisterous merrymaking, to party) during the daytime?
120. Does the prophet have fun with his falsehoods?
121. Is the prophets eyes full of adultery?
122. Is the prophet unable to cease from sin?
123. Does the prophet have a beguiling (enticing) unstable soul?
124. Does the prophet exercise his heart with covetous practices (wrongful desires)?
125. Does the prophet seem to be cursed?
126. Does the prophet forsake the right way and love the wages of unrighteousness?
127. Is the prophet unable to satisfy the spiritual thirst of men?
128. Is the prophet blown about by every wind of doctrine?
129. Does the prophet speak great swelling words of vanity (emptiness)?
130. Does the prophet allure through the lusts of the flesh?
131. Does the prophet promise liberty when they themselves are the servants of corruption?
132. Is the prophet entangled in the world (natural life) and overcome by it?
133. Has the prophet turned from the holy commandment delivered unto him, and like a dog, turned to his own vomit again?

34. IN THE LAST DAYS: Matt 24:11
134. Is the prophet one of many rising the last days to deceive many?

Remember, one "yes" answer to any of these questions proves that the prophet is a false prophet, and his words should be disregarded.

TEST FOR FALSE TEACHERS

Just the Two of Us

I first met her in high school. She was older than I was and exciting. She’d been around. My parents warned me to have nothing to do with her. They claimed that no good could come from our relationship.

But I kept meeting her on the sly. She was so sophisticated and worldly. It made me feel grown up just being with her. It was fun to take her to a party in those days. She was almost always the center of attention.

We began seeing more of each other after I started college. When I got a place of my own, she was a frequent guest. It wasn’t long before she moved in with me. It may have been common law, but it was heartbreaking for my parents. I kept reminding myself I wasn’t a kid anymore. Besides, it was legal.

We lived together right through college and into my early days in business. I seldom went anywhere without her, but I wasn’t blind. I knew she was unfaithful to me. What’s worse, I didn’t care. As long as she was there for me when I needed her (and she always was), it didn’t matter.

The longer we lived together, the more attached I became to her. But it wasn’t mutual. She began to delight in making me look foolish in front of my friends. But I still couldn’t give her up.

It became a love/hate relationship. I figured out that her glamour was nothing more than a cheap mask to hide her spite and cynicism behind. I could no longer see her beauty after I came to know her true character.

But old habits are hard to break. We had invested many years in each other. Even though my relationship with her made me lose a little respect for myself, she had become the center of my life. We didn’t go anywhere. We didn’t do anything. We didn’t have friends over. It was just the two of us. I became deeply depressed and knew that she was largely responsible for my misery. I finally told her I was leaving her for good. It took a lot of guts, but I left.

I still see her around. She’s still as beautiful as when we first met. I miss her now and then. I’m not boasting when I say she’d take me back in a minute. But by the grace of God, I will never take up with her again.

PS. If you see her, just give her my regards. I don’t hate her. I just loved her too much.

Chances are you know her family.

The name’s Alcohol.

I'M NOT WORTHY… (He isn’t through with me yet)

My dear beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, you and I have an immeasurable privilege and responsibility to bear the name of Christ in a worthy manner. This was a consistent theme throughout Paul’s epistles.

To the Ephesians he wrote, “I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, entreat you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing forbearance to one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” Ephesians 4:1–3.

To the Philippians he said, “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ . . . standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the Gospel; in no way alarmed by your opponents” Philippians 1:27–28.

And to the Colossians he wrote, “That you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might” Colossians 1:10–11.

Each of those passages gives us some insight into the particulars of a worthy walk, a life we should strive to follow and characteristics we should ask God to make prevalent in all our lives.

The following is a New Testament list of all that is encompassed in a worthy walk:

• Humility Eph. 4:23
• Purity Rom. 13:13
• Contentment 1 Cor. 7:17
• Faith 2 Cor. 5:7
• Righteousness Eph. 2:10
• Unity Phil. 1:27
• Gentleness Eph. 4:2
• Patience Col. 1:11
• Love Eph. 5:23
• Joy Col. 1:11
• Thankfulness Col. 1:3
• Light Eph. 5:8–9
• Knowledge Col. 1:10
• Wisdom Eph. 5:15–16
• Truth 3 John 3–4
• Fruitfulness Col. 1:10

If you truly belong to Christ, you ought to walk as He walked 1 John 2:6.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Address Your Stress (Causes & Cures)

25 Causes of Stress
1. Prayerlessness; lack of "quiet time"
2. Ignorance of God 's Word & His promises
3. Poor nutrition and lack of rest/exercise
4. Undesirable living space/cluttered environment
5. Workplace issues (office politics, peer conflicts; incompetent subordinates; problematic bosses)
6. Obsessing over weight or personal appearance
7. Associating with argumentative, frustrating, negative people
8. Competing; keeping up with the Joneses
9. Envy; viewing someone's success as your failure
10. Inflexibility; inability to accept change
11. Failure to delegate tasks; being a control freak
12. Failure to distinguish between "important" vs. "urgent" tasks
13. Seeking perfection
14. Sweating the small stuff (bad drivers, rude clerks, put downs, etc.)
15. Unrealistic expectations of yourself or others
16. Unresolved interpersonal conflicts; silent treatment
17. Failure to establish boundaries or to communicate your preferences
18. Poor financial management; past due bills
19. Poor time management; failure to plan for unexpected events
20. Guilt; refusing to apologize
21. Allowing others to "push your buttons"
22. Undue concern about the opinions of others; fear of rejection
23. Saying yes when you want to say no
24. Over extending yourself; too many commitments
25. Swallowing your anger

25 Cures for Stress
1. Make and keep a daily appointment with God.
2. Recite Scriptural affirmations daily (e.g. "This is working for my good…"; "I am more than a conqueror…")
3. Remind yourself that God has sealed your destiny; therefore, no one can thwart His plans for you.
4. Tell the truth; do right; wrongdoing causes stress.
5. Extend grace, mercy, and generosity to others.
6. Respect other people's opinion; refuse to argue about anything that does not personally impact your life.
7. Chose one day of the week to enjoy real food; no "light", "non-fat" or "low-carb" stuff.
8. Admit your mistakes, faults and failures (people connect with you better when they see your vulnerability).
9. Express your boundaries, desires, and preferences - in a calm, non-hostile manner.
10. Take the "high road" in conflicts; humble yourself.
11. Learn from the burn, but forgive to live.
12. Hug your loved ones (or somebody) daily; show and accept affection.
13. Let go of what you can't control (events, other people's behavior); control what you can (your response).
14. "Fast" from complaining, criticizing, and cussing.
15. Delay material gratification; practice spending less or spending later.
16. Accept your unchangeable physical features as God's special "branding" for His purpose.
17. Laugh often-especially at yourself.
18. Prepare and follow a prioritized "to do" list; limit tasks to 3-4 per day.
19. Applaud someone's success; don't hate-congratulate, appreciate, emulate!
20. Slow the pace at which you talk and move.
21. Minimize the consumption of "white" foods (sugar, flour, pasta, potatoes, rice, etc.) and caffeine
22. Stop using stress-related phrases ("run to the store", "grab a bite", "jump in the shower", etc.).
23. Breathe deeply & slowly (10 breaths) at least five times a day - preferably outdoors.
24. Use "waiting in line" time productively (take a mental time-out; tighten your muscles, memorize a Scripture).
25. Do some form of exercise daily (walking, stair climbing, (at least a few minutes).

Thank you so much sister Deborah Smith Pegues for coming up with such a blessing way for us all to address our stress. I pray the Lord continue to bless your gifts, talents and ministries abundantly. PS. It’s official; I now own a copy of all your books. Thanks!

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

SOMEONE IN CHURCH HURT ME

Statistics show that a great percentage of persons who stop going to church, do so because of some type of offense or injury to their feelings. It's unfortunate that such experiences ever occur. You may not be able to stop offensive things from happening, but by applying God's principles you can stop them from hurting you. "Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them" (Psalm 119:165 KJV).

My dear brothers and sister, I recognize your pain and know it hurts deep. It took this pain for me to realize that God calls us to live a life we cannot live, so that we must depend on him for supernatural ability. We are called to do the impossible, to live beyond our natural ability. As you mend take to heart that the man who is poor in spirit is the man who has realized that things mean nothing, and that God means everything. I beseech you, my dear brothers and sister in Christ, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us so pull yourself up by your bootstraps and rise up. You are soldiers (Army of the Lord), therefore pick up your Swords (Bible) and remember who your ruler is (Jesus) and don't forget his daily briefing.

The following are several things that people can do to protect themselves from getting hurt in the church:

How can a person keep from getting hurt or injured in a church fellowship?

(1) Avoid developing unreasonable expectations.
"My soul, wait silently for God alone, For my expectation is from Him" (Psa. 62:5).

The definition of disappointment is "the failure to attain one's expectations." Don't expect things from the church or the minister that they can't deliver, or that the Bible doesn't teach for them to do. Many expectations have to do with preconceived "traditions" which we have come to associate with a church, perhaps from another fellowship we once attended or grew up in, etc. It's a good idea to meet with the pastor and ask what you can expect of his ministry and the church.

Occasionally people get disappointed when they find out their church can't supply all their earthly needs. Most churches attempt to help the needy during crisis and emergencies, but some expect the church to meet all their material needs or pay their bills like the early church did. Unfortunately, this just isn't possible unless everyone agrees to sell all their property and possessions and give them to the church like the early believers (Acts 4:34-35). Most churches would be blessed if everyone merely paid their tithes, however statistics show that only a small percentage of churchgoers give a full tithe regularly.

Neither is it realistic to expect the pastor to spend all his time with you, to attend every social function, or for him to show you constant attention. Learn to place your expectations upon God — He will always be faithful to His promises in His Word.

(2) Don't place an absolute trust in people. "Thus says the LORD: Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the LORD" (Jer. 17:5).

Come to terms with the fact that everyone is human and will fail you at sometime or another. Even the pastor will make mistakes. The only one you can trust entirely without fail is God.

Realizing that any human can fall short, the degree of trust we place in people must be limited and will depend on their track record. The more we get to know a person's character and the history of their behavior, we'll be able to determine how trustworthy they are. This is one of the reasons why the scriptures tell us to get to know our pastors and spiritual leaders — so from their godly lifestyle, we'll be able to trust their leadership. "And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you." (1 Thes. 5:12).

There's a difference between "love" and "trust." It's possible to love and forgive someone, without placing an absolute trust in them. To illustrate this, let's say there's a school bus driver who has a drinking problem. One day while transporting a load of children he becomes intoxicated, wrecks the bus and kills all the children. As the lone survivor of the crash, he turns to the church to seek God's forgiveness for this horrible act of irresponsibility. If he repents of his sin, will God forgive him? Absolutely. Should the church love and forgive this person? Of course. And what if he would then like to volunteer to drive the church bus for us? Do we trust him? Absolutely not! It would be unthinkable to put a person in the driver's seat who has shown such recent negligence. Certainly, we love and forgive him, but because of this man's poor track record, we could not risk the lives of our passengers. Over a long period of sobriety and safe driving, this person may be able to prove that he is again reliable, capable of being trusted as a bus driver.

Remember that love and forgiveness is granted unconditionally, but trust must be "earned." Trust is the acquired confidence in a person's actions. We certainly can, and should trust persons who show trustworthy behavior, but because all men have the potential for failure, we should never put an infallible sense of trust in anyone but God.

(3) Focus on common ground. "Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment" (1 Cor. 1:10).

Avoid becoming highly opinionated. Opinions are the interpretations and ideas of men, which if constantly pressed on other people, can cause division or promote sinful debates and quarrels (Rom. 1:29). Opinionated people are prone to get hurt when others disagree with them.

The Bible teaches for all Christians to "speak the same thing" so that there will be unity in the body of Christ (1 Cor. 1:10). The only way such unity is possible, is for Christians to focus on the common ground of Christ and His Word. That is, we need to "say what the Word says," to let the Word speak for itself and not try to promote divisive opinions about it. In scripture, we see that Paul instructed Timothy to "Preach the Word," not his opinions (2 Tim. 4:2). A preacher is intended be a delivery boy of God's message, not a commentator of the message. That's the Holy Spirit's job (1 John 2:27).

Similarly, at one time the news media was required to comply with a very strict code of ethics. They were to report the facts of the news accurately without adding their opinion or commentary. However, as time has passed, news reporting has become less factual and more opinionated — corrupted with rumors and gossip rather than real information. Reporters have evolved into commentators which manipulate what people think about the news. Like reporters, preachers need to stick with the facts.

Naturally every believer has his or her own convictions about a great many things, but if you continually try to push your opinions on others, conflict will eventually emerge. Avoid controversy over scriptures which are vague and foster many interpretations — stand fast upon those common, basic truths — Jesus, His life, death and resurrection — and don't add to what God's Word says. "Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, lest He reprove you, and you be found a liar" (Prov. 30:5-6).

(4) Don't expect any church to be perfect. "For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice." (Rom. 7:18-19)

It is remarkable to consider that the Apostle Paul confessed that he was not perfect — that is, like us, he experienced struggles in his flesh to do the right things. If one of the leading authors of scripture and apostles of the early church admitted to this, it should not seem too strange if we find other brothers and sisters in the church struggling with imperfections too.

Since churches are made up of people like you and me who have imperfections, there will never be such a thing as a perfect church. Unless people understand this, they'll have an unrealistic view of the church, and will eventually become disillusioned and hurt.

One of the jobs of the church ministry is to help perfect the saints — like a spiritual hospital, where people go to get well. Instead of resenting persons in the church for their flaws, be thankful they're there trying to grow in Christ to get better. Learn to love and accept people for what they are — they're not any more perfect than you are.

Just as it has been said of beauty, imperfection is in the eye of the beholder. A person with a negative attitude can find fault wherever they wish. In contrast the person with a positive outlook can always find the good and beauty in things. The well adjusted person in the church should seek out the good and encouraging things as the Bible teaches (Phil. 4:8). Those who dwell on the negative or continually find fault with the church will eventually get hurt.

(5) Don't seek to promote yourself or your own agenda. "Do not lift up your horn on high; Do not speak with a stiff neck. For exaltation comes neither from the east Nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, And exalts another" (Psa. 75:5-7).

Have a humble and meek attitude like Christ (Matt. 11:29, Rom. 12:3). Besides being obnoxious, pride and arrogance will set you up for a fall (Prov. 16:18). Don't promote yourself, campaign or strive to attain an appointed or elected position. God is the one who puts persons in such positions, and unless He does it, stay away from it. Lift up the Lord in all that you say and all you do. Don't boast or talk about yourself. "He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him" (John 7:18).

Avoid an attitude of competition which creates conflict in unity. A competitive attitude compares self with others, and strives to rise above that comparison (2 Cor. 10:12). The philosophy of Christianity is not to try to outdo one another, but to submit to and lift up one another (Eph. 5:21). We are even told to "prefer" our brother above ourselves. "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another" (Rom. 12:10). Competition between churches and Christians is divisive and contrary to the faith.

Don't expect to receive preferential treatment or to get your way about everything. The Bible teaches that favoritism is wrong, and the church will try to make decisions and do things in the best interest of the whole congregation, not just a certain few. "...but if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors" (James 2:9). If you do things for the church or give generous offerings, do it to bring glory to God, not to bring attention to yourself or to gain influence (Col. 3:17). The Bible even says that when you give charitable offerings, do it anonymously so to gain God's approval, not merely man's (Matt. 6:1).

Avoid the trap of presuming that your opinions are always divinely inspired or are indisputable. Share your suggestions and ideas with church leaders, but don't press your opinions or personal agenda. Sometimes, persons feel that all their ideas come from God. They may attempt to add clout to their suggestions or complaints by saying "God told me so." Indeed, God does speak to His children, but you will not be the exclusive source through which God reveals himself in a matter. If your opinions really come from God, the Bible says that others will bear witness with it, especially His pastors and leaders (2 Cor. 13:1, 1 Cor. 14:29). (You won't even have to invoke God's name — they'll be able to tell if your ideas came from Him. Be cautious, lest you find yourself using His name falsely, a very dangerous thing — Ex. 20:7). Pastors are His representatives in His ordained chain of command, and if He wants to get something across to His church, He'll bear witness with the persons in charge.

(6) Avoid blaming the church for personal problems. "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You" (Isaiah 26:3).

When you go to church, you should try to dissociate the church from the other personal problems you deal with. The majority of hurt feelings in a church result from wounds and sensitivities people carry in with them. This kind of emotional distress can create "distorted perceptions" which may prevent you from seeing reality the same way others do. Such things as a low self esteem, abuse as a child, marital problems, personal offenses, family conflict, a root of bitterness, health problems or job dissatisfaction can twist your interpretation of words and actions. You may imagine that people don't like you (paranoia), or misinterpret well-intended words as an offense. Trivial problems will seem like big problems. Blame for unhappiness may be transferred to the church, its leaders or the people. You may lash out against others or be quick to find fault with the church. Remember this: Don't jump to conclusions over anything, because things are usually not as bad as they seem.

(7) Treat others as you wish to be treated. "Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets" (Matt. 7:12).

Human beings tend to be "reciprocal" creatures. That is, they reflect the way they are treated. This is why Jesus gave us the Golden rule: "Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you." The way that most people interact with you is as a direct result of how you interact with them. If you have a frown on your face, you won't get many smiles. If you offer friendliness, it will usually be offered back (Proverbs 18:24). Be gracious, encouraging, and a blessing for others to be around. If you have a negative, critical attitude toward people it will tend to generate their critical attitude toward you. "Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven" (Luke 6:37).

Many hurt feelings can be avoided if we will realize that people usually react to how we deal with them. Take a close examination at the way you say things, or even how much you talk. "...a fool's voice is known by his many words" (Ec. 5:3). Don't be rude and impolite. Check your attitude that you're not overbearing and bossy — people will be turned off and will seek to avoid you.

(8) Have a teachable, cooperative attitude. "Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you" (Heb. 13:17).

The Bible teaches believers to be cooperative and submissive to their spiritual leaders — something that's not possible unless the believer is committed to a church and accountable to a local pastor. Accountability to a godly shepherd is a part of God's order for the spiritual growth of every Christian. God's Word gives the pastor authority to organize and maintain order of the church, and to teach God's truth, to correct, and to discipline when necessary to hold his flock accountable to biblical principles. In Paul's encouragement to ministers, he stated, "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching" (2 Tim. 4:2). (See also 2 Tim. 3:16, Tit. 2:15, 1 Tim. 5:20.)

A lack of proper respect toward authority is a common problem today. People don't want to be told what to do, or be corrected if they are wrong. This is one reason why the modern church is turning out so many immature believers. When some people hear something they don't like, or are corrected in some way, they simply pack up and go to another church down the street, or church-hop until they find one that says things they like to hear. "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers" (2 Timothy 4:3).

As long as you are a part of any particular church, you must come to accept that the pastor and leaders are in charge there. Regardless of how unqualified you might think they are, God recognizes them as the authority in that body and will hold them accountable to that responsibility. Consequently, God holds you accountable to respect their authority, to pray for them, and to cooperate — not to be defiant and rebellious.

Always be cooperative, willing to humble yourself. If you have a rigid, inflexible attitude in the church you will probably get hurt.

(9) Don't oppose or hinder the church. "These six things the LORD hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren" (Prov. 6:16-19).

One of the things that God dislikes most are those who sow discord — who create division and strife in the body of Christ. Don't be a gossip, a complainer, or stir up turmoil. If you're displeased with the church in some way, offer your help to make improvements, pray for it, or as a last resort, find another church you're happier with — but never become a source of agitation or hindrance.

Don't badmouth a man of God — if you do so, you're asking for problems. One time when Paul was punished for preaching the Gospel, he unknowingly condemned Ananias, the high priest, who had ordered the apostle slapped. However, when Paul realized who he was, he apologized for speaking against Ananias, knowing that it's forbidden to speak against God's representative — despite the fact that Ananias' treatment of Paul was in error (Acts 23:5). It is a serious matter to "touch" God's anointed — either with our words or our actions. Imperfect as they may sometimes be, they are His representatives. "He permitted no one to do them wrong; Yes, He reproved kings for their sakes, Saying, "Do not touch My anointed ones, And do My prophets no harm" (Psa. 105:14-15).

If a minister has done you wrong in some way, don't incriminate yourself by responding in an unbiblical manner — don't lash out against him, retaliate with rumors against him, or run him down behind his back. You should go and confront him privately according to the scriptural fashion described in Matthew 18:15-17. If the first and second attempts do not bring a resolution, take the matter to the spiritual body, such as the church board, or denominational overseers to whom he is accountable — any correction or discipline should be left to them. Keep in mind, an accusation against a minister is a serious matter and will not be accepted unless the matter can be substantiated by other witnesses (1 Tim. 5:19).

When things are not as they should be in the church or with its leadership, there are honorable ways to help promote improvements or resolve inequities. However, it's unethical to oppose the church or attack its leadership, and persons who do will likely end up hurt, bitter or possibly worse.

(10) Be committed to forthrightness and truth. "Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. "But if he will not hear you, take with you one or two more, that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector" (Matt. 18:15-17).

When someone has wronged you, Jesus says that you are to first go to them and confront them privately between yourselves. Most offenses in the church result from misunderstandings, and many could be quickly resolved if offended parties would just go to the source and find out the facts. Unfortunately, some offended people will just absorb the offense silently, while growing bitter and resentful. It is important to God, and a matter of obedience to His Word, that such issues are confronted so that:

(1) you will not become bitter and withdraw from the church,

(2) that the offender is held accountable to not repeat his offenses which could harm the faith of others, and

(3) so that the offender who has perpetrated sin might be reconciled with God. If they are uncooperative with your first private effort, you are to try a second time, taking witnesses with you. Finally, if no success, turn it over to church leadership.

You should never take one side of a story and accept it as fact without verifying it with the other party. There are always two sides to a story. The scriptures address this very problem, that before we believe a rumor, we are to investigate thoroughly, to verify all the facts. "...then you shall inquire, search out, and ask diligently... if it is indeed true and certain that such an abomination was committed among you..." (Deut. 13:14).

Without doubt, it is not possible to have a relationship with a group of people without occasional misunderstandings and offenses. And unless you will commit yourself to confront these issues in the way Jesus described, you will become hurt in the church.

(11) Be devoted to love and forgiveness. "He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him" (1 John 2:10).

Christians will avoid a lot of problems if they will just commit themselves to an unconditional love for their brethren. The practice of loving the brethren — all the brethren, not just the lovable ones — keeps us from stumbling. Never forget that Jesus takes personally how we entreat our Christian brothers and sisters. When we love even the "least" of our brethren, Jesus accepts that love toward Himself (Matt. 25:40). You cannot love the Lord any more than you love the least in the body of Christ. "If someone says, I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?" (1 John 4:20).

Be quick to forgive and don't hold grudges. Unforgiveness and bitterness is one of the greatest reasons why people get hurt in the church and probably the greatest cause of apostasy — falling away. Remember that unforgiveness is one of your greatest enemies. If you refuse to forgive, it will prevent God's forgiveness of your sins and could keep you out of Heaven. "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" (Matt. 6:14-15).

(12) Don't get caught up in the offenses of others. "Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart; He who does not backbite with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend" (Psa. 15:1-3).

One of the great characteristics of the body of Christ is to care about the burdens and sufferings of one another. However, as we seek to console and encourage friends that have been offended, we may be tempted to take up their offense against another. In sympathy, we may tend to take their part against the pastor, the church or whoever they blame for the offense. This is very unwise and an unscriptural thing to do, considering that your friend may be the cause of his own offense. His hurt feelings may be due to a misunderstanding, a difference of opinion, his own rebellious attitude, emotional instability — or he may be childish and immature. There are always two sides to a story, and only an idiot develops an opinion based on one side or without all the facts.

Sometimes offended persons will seek sympathy from naive, listening ears. They go about pleading their case, pouring out their bleeding-heart of injustice to those sincere, tenderhearted persons who will listen. Their goal is to seek out persons who will coddle them, support their opinion and take up their offense against the offending party. You should love and encourage a friend with hurt feelings, but reserve your opinion and avoid taking sides, lest you find yourself a partaker in other men's sins, or you also become offended and hurt with the church.

(13) Don't personalize everything that's preached. Obviously, every pastor preaches with the hope that everyone will take the message personally and apply it to his or her own life. "If the shoe fits, wear it." However, there are always a few who think the minister is pointing his sermon specifically at them. This is a common misunderstanding which causes persons to get hurt.

This feeling of personal focus from a sermon may occur if persons are
(1) under conviction about a particular matter,
(2) especially self-conscious,
(3) under emotional distress,
(4) if they spend a lot of time counseling with the pastor, or
(5) if he has previously corrected them or hurt their feelings in some way.

Keep in mind, a pulpit preacher doesn't focus his attention solely upon one person. His concern is for the broad range of people in attendance.

Occasionally persons think their pastor focuses on them, the same way they focus on him. When a pastor stands in front of a congregation week after week, they develop a feeling of close friendship with him — they come to know personal details of his life, his family, and other traits. However, even if the pastor knows each person in his flock, it's not really possible for him to concentrate on each with the same detail that they do on him. It's easy for dozens of people to know him well, but not realistic for him to know dozens of people in the same way. Consequently, some develop the illusion that the pastor focuses on them when he preaches — that he remembers their personal details in the same way they remember his. But the pastor has too many other people to consider. He counsels with dozens of people, hears scores of similar problems and details. It's not likely he will single someone out and preach at them, while trying to minister to the whole congregation. If there's something specific that the pastor needs to say only to you, he will deliver it to you personally, in private — not in subtle hints from his sermon.

Besides this, it is the job of the Holy Spirit to personalize God's Word to us — so that we'll examine ourselves and search our own hearts. When the Lord is dealing with us about His Word, it may seem like the pastor is speaking directly to us. Sometimes the Holy Spirit may even direct the preacher to unwittingly say things that may pertain specifically to us. The best attitude to have is to listen to each message objectively. In every sermon from the Bible, God has something to say to all of us. Be open to whatever the Lord would have to say, willing to accept His correction or guidance. Defensiveness is usually a sign of resistance to conviction.

Years ago, while in seminary, I was introduced to a book entitled, “What People Ask about the Church,” by Dale A. Robbins, and I still use it today.

Brother Robbins book has blessed me highly in the incumbencies of my life.

Thank you dear brother Robbins.

A Friend....

It is easy to say we love God when that love doesn’t cost us anything more than weekly attendance at religious services. But the real test of our love for God is how we treat the people right in front of us. We cannot truly love God while neglecting to love those who are created in his image.

(A)ccepts you as you are
(B)elieves in you
(C)alls you just to say..."Hi"
(D)oes NOT give up on you
(E)nvisions the whole of you (even the unfinished parts)
(F)orgives your mistakes
(G)ives unconditionally
(H)elps you
(I)nvites you over
(J)ust to be with you.
(K)eeps you close at heart
(L)oves you for who you are
(M)akes a difference in your life
(N)ever Judges
(O)ffers support
(P)icks you up when you're down
(Q)uiets your fears
(R)aises your spirits
(S)ays nice things about you
(T)ells you the truth when you need it
(U)nderstands you
(V)alues you
(W)alks beside you
(X)-plains things you do not understand
(Y)ells when you will not listen and
(Z)aps you back to reality

If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? 1 John 4:20

PS. What a friend we have in Jesus...

No better friend I know.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

RENEWING YOUR MIND

The Word of God says thus,

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." ~ Romans 12:1-2

And it also says,

"And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." ~ Ephesians 4:23-24

And so...

In order to be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God you’ve got to get rid of (Put Off) your pessimistic way of thinking and study the Word of God prayerfully daily in order to attain (Put On) an optimistic way of thinking. I know it’s easier to say than do but if we “WWJD.” (Walk with Jesus Daily) we’d learn through Him (The Living Word) His way of thinking.

Then the next time you ask yourself, “WWJD?” (What would Jesus Do?) You’ll know that enough is truly not enough because Jesus’ way of thinking will provide you with a more than enough mentality and way of living. Therefore, your way of thinking will be transformed from a carnal mind (conformed to the world) to a spiritual mind from a drifty, condemned and spacey mind to a renewed mind which is fellowship with God-minded controlled (thinking of God's promises and thoughts).

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, our real struggle with sin is exposed each and every single time we bounce it against the Word of God. Jesus pointed out what kind of lives would be required of his followers in the way He lived His life here on earth.

Are you living as Jesus taught?

Allow me to rightly divide it for you with six simple verses from the Logos, like so: It’s not enough to avoid killing, we must also avoid anger and hatred (Matthew 5:21-22 - Murder). It’s not enough to Offer regular gifts with God and others we must also have right relationships (Matthew 5:23-26 – Offerings). It’s not enough to avoid adultery; we must also Keep our hearts from lusting and be faithful, (Matthew 5:27-30 - Adultery). It’s not enough to be legally married; we must also live out our marriage commitments, (Matthew 5:31-32 - Divorce). It’s not enough to make an oath we must also avoid casual and irresponsible commitments to God (Matthew 5:33-37 - Oaths). It’s not enough to seek justice for ourselves we must also Show mercy and love to others (Matthew 5:38-47 - Revenge). You see, we are, more often than not, guilty of avoiding the extreme sins while regularly committing the types of sins with which Jesus was most concerned.

Still confused? (Too much meat)

Good news, I’ve “Got milk?” (Simplified)

It’s as simple a moving an object from “Point A” to “Point B”, or “From and to” not “not to and fro”

Here’s how as follow:

From a Unbelief Minded to a Faith/Victory Minded
From a Carnally Ruled to a Disciplined
From a Worldly Minded to a Reward Minded (seeking God with our thoughts)
From a Lazy Mind to a Word-Conscious Mind
From a Sin Minded to a Righteousness Minded
From a Weak-Willed to a Strong and Determined
From a Grudge Minded to a Forgiveness Minded
From a Passive to a Optimistic
From a Revenge Minded to a Love Minded
From a Idle to a Retrained
From a Un-Worked to a Reprogrammed
From a Self-Pleasing, People-Pleasing Minded to a God Pleasing Minded
From a Untrained to a Jesus minded (praise thoughts and thankful minded)
From a Negative to a Positive/Hopeful
From a Failure Conscious to a Success Conscious
From a Defeated to a Victorious
From a Distracted to a Focused
From a Unstable to a Stable
From a Griping, Critical and Judgmental Minded to a Restructured (both intellectually and emotionally)

And in doing so you’ll be transformed from a devil-controlled mind and into a God-controlled mind (God-controlled mind that supports your spirit man in your walk with God)

Amen.

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

I'M NOT YOUR SUPERMAN

Lately, I’ve been nursing a series of all time lows that has caused emotional woundedness in my life. It’s been five years since I lost my best friend… mama. And though I’ve been handling it well for all those years, I miss her. And with all that pain buried deep down inside, life goes on. I continue to go on with life the same way Clark Kent did. He lives that portion of his life acting in hopes that people would see him as a human being with all our frailties.

But unlike Clark Kent, some Preachers have to walk a fine line. I’m not talking about the fine line of ideological conformity, or ecclesiastical practices, procedures and protocols. I’m talking about the fine line of being perfect in the sight of everyone. A line that says it’s impossible for a preacher to fall or become capable of making mistakes, be super invulnerable to heartbreaks, never ever be discouraged or suffer disappoints, and will never be capable of being broken down by abuse, anger, disrespect.

Recently, I’ve lost my job as an agent and advisor for a highly successful insurance company. As a matter of fact, the number one life insurance company in the entire U. S. of A. All simply because I trusted a person in a church whom I placed too much trust in. I stressed the importance of a decision being made by a deadline that would cause me to be terminated of my dream job and livelihood. It truly has affected my livelihood as well as my loved ones. I waited for a simple returned call, email or even a text message and received none. Even in the midst of being in the same vicinity, he never said a word. It was as if he just didn’t care. It was such an uncomfortable feeling to be in his vicinity without the visitation of emotions I was not proud of. So I decided to take a little time off and away from the source of my anger.

Out of that experience arrived days, weeks and months I wanted so badly to become a recluse. Get away from everything and everybody. I was too easily angered with any and every body including those I loved the most. I refused to go to church services, meetings, receive calls. Those close to me who at one time thought I could never do wrong. I was their superman. I then realize the key to all my recent pain was one I didn’t have to go through if I only gave it all to God. God took me way, way back in the day during the nineteen-sixties in my beloved hometown of Brooklyn where I first took notice of my hero, my superman, my brother Ernest.

Growing up, I remember how much Ernest loved Superman simply because he was so strong. I looked up to my brother back in those good old days and continue to do so today because of his intelligence, strength and a heavy dose of charisma. Ernest was full of energy and had a very, very magnetic personality. But there came various days in his life when his little brother witnessed, unbeknownst to him that he, “The Great Ernesto” was not super human, nor superman but only human.

My hero was vulnerable to heartbreaks, discouragements, disappointments, abuse, anger, disrespect and so much more. And even though I painfully witness those weak areas in his life, he was still my hero. The way he handled those kryptonite moments of life helps me today during those kryptonite moments in my life today as a preacher. God does not expect us to be supermen and superwomen. He simply wants us to do the possible so He in turn will take care of the impossible.

Quite a few Preachers, Pastors, Ministers and Elders of the Gospel at times are held up high on a pedestal but we must all come to the realization that no matter how magnetic, energetic, intelligent or charismatic some can be, they are all only human. They are vulnerable to heartbreaks, discouragements, disappointments, abuse, anger, disrespect and so much more.

Clark Kent fooled people sometimes, but his vulnerability was just an act. Underneath was the man of steel. Superman came to help people who were weak and needy; but he himself was never afraid, never confused. Superman never joined a twelve-step recovery group, even though he had lost both his biological parents and the planet he had called home. He never joined a lonely hearts club, although he was always alone. He never got into therapy, even though he wore blue tights, a yellow belt, some red boots and a red cape beneath his regular clothes.

So many people assume preachers are invincible. We must realize they are just men and women who are also tempted and are highly vulnerable as prime targets of the devil. Sin is also in their nature. You add that and the vicious attacks they get, it all adds up.

Preachers, pastors, and Bible teachers are on the front lines of a war. It is our responsibility to help them. We can do that in a very simple way. It's called prayer. Speaking of prayer, when was the last time you prayed for your Pastor, a Preacher, an Elder or a Minister of the Gospel?

I was reading some blogs and ran across some figures that were very upsetting. Take a look at some of this: Focus on the Family, and other respected organizations:

•80% of pastors believe pastoral ministry has negatively affected their families. Many Pastor’s children do not attend church now because of what the church has done to their parents.

•90% of Pastors feel they are inadequately trained to cope with the demands of ministry.

•70% say they have a lower self-image now than when they first started.

•Only 1 out of every 10 ministers will actually retire as a Minister in some form.

•The profession of Pastor is near the bottom of a survey of the most-respected professions.

•Over 4,000 churches closed in America last year. That’s more than 10 every single day.

•Many denominations report an “empty pulpit crisis”. They cannot find ministers willing to fill positions.

•More than 50% of all pastors are so discouraged that they regularly consider leaving the ministry.

•80% of seminary and Bible school graduates who enter the ministry will leave the ministry within the first five years.

•85% of Pastors said their greatest struggle is dealing with problem people such as disgruntled members, disgruntled Elders, disgruntled Deacons, disgruntled worship leaders, disgruntled worship teams, disgruntled board members, and disgruntled associate Pastors.

•90% said the ministry was completely different than what they thought it would be before they began.

•80% of Pastors’ wives feel left out and unappreciated by the church members.

•80% of Pastors’ wives wish their spouse would choose another profession.

•50% of Pastors’ marriages will end in divorce.

•70% of Pastors constantly fight depression.

With these figures, who would want to Pastor a church?

Anyone that does has got to care about mankind. There have been some great pastors that have sinned and been shunned completely from society. But we go on and sin and it's ok. I don't get it.
I give honor to the Pastors, preachers, ministers and teachers in my life (the good ones as well as the ones who weren't). As a preacher I too must admit that the amount of time we spend in what most folks give too much glory to, (The Pulpit) is but 5% or less of where we are used by the Lord.

To fill the job description of today’s Pastor sounds like a job for Superman. A pastor is expected to make house calls as willingly as yesterday’s country doctor, to shake hands and smile like a politician on the campaign trail, to entertain like a stand-up comedian, to teach the Scriptures like a theology professor, and to counsel like a psychologist with the wisdom of Solomon. He should run the church like a top-level business executive, handle finances like a career accountant, and deal with the public like an expert diplomat at the United Nations. No wonder so many pastors are confused about just what is expected of them and how they will ever manage to live up to all those expectations. People also forget about all visitations to the prisons, jails, hospitals, clinics, schools, the suicide attempt or so and so died phone calls in the wee hours, running a church, recruiting, motivating, administering, organizer of nurturing relationships and the list goes on and on and on.

I ask that you please keep them in your prayers. Also their families, they need it; take another look at the figures above and take in how real it is.

I pray you would position all preachers of the Gospel on your prayer list. If it seems like the list is too long choose a few names a day or a group per week but please do pray for these brothers and sisters of the pulpit. I promise you that the Lord would be mightily pleased and will bless you for it in abundance. Thank you.

PS. Please pray for me as well, I am human as well and know that no one will ever live in this walk not needing prayer.

Thank you and God bless you.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

TO BE LOVED

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, everyone wants to be loved yet there are moments in our lives when we feel that nobody truly appreciate nor understand how we as unique individuals desire to be loved in our own inimitable way. Every man knows well enough that he is a unique being, only once on this earth; and by no extraordinary chance will such a marvelously picturesque piece of diversity in unity as he is, ever be put together a second time. God Himself also desires to be loved in an incomparable way. He calls it agape. Yes, an agape Love is an unconditional love. A man's true value consists in his likeness to God. What gives value to his thoughts, his feelings, and his actions is the extent to which they are inspired by God, the extent to which they express the thought, the will, and the acts of God.

The Choctaw (so called Indians) are a Native American people originally from the Southeastern United States (Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana). They met my forefathers over five hundred years ago and realized that they were not fellow Native Americas but shared the unique ruddy skin, dark as mud. Their witness of our deep desire to be free, to be loved and appreciated by any means necessary that they identified us as “Tuscaloosa”, which means Black Warrior in that language.

Today, some five hundred years later, I too, a human being, a man, a Blackman, a Black Warrior desire to be loved in unique way, the agape way. You may ask, “How do you love a Blackman?” First of all, I can’t speak for all black men; as I’ve stated earlier, we are all unique in our own individual distinctive way. But as an individual Blackman if it were necessary for me to poetically simplify or better yet, poetically break it down, how I want to be loved, I would simply say that the first thing you must understand,

There is no easy way to love this Blackman.
You've got to take time to figure me out,
And study and digest what I’m really about
Knowing I’m someone you can't live without.

Then pour on the kindness
Shower me with sweetness,
Never letting me take your kindness for weakness.
For my desire is strength with a touch of gentleness

I have a tough time giving my all to you,
So be appreciative of the little things I try to do.
Let me know I can trust and confide in you,
And in return I won't have to hide things from you.
So be my supporting rock, be my friend not my foe,
When I fall don't be so quick to say, “I told you so”

Be understanding, not demanding.
Let me unwind, I face a world of rain,
So try to be my ray of sunshine.

Don't get too cozy in the comfort zone.
You might take it all for granted and end up alone.

Keep love new, exciting and just a little bit wild.
It doesn't hurt to go that extra mile;
Finding new ways to make me smile.

Keep it sexy but devout.
Because without a doubt
I want to be proud when I take you out.

Don't forget about you, never let yourself go
Love yourself, and I will love you too

Don't smother me please, just let me breathe.
The tighter you hold on, the faster I will leave.

And when you love me, love me all the way down,
Don't be afraid to explore me pound for pound.

If you don't keep it a constant thrill,
Please believe me someone else will.

Be patient, keep it real and demand respect.
And this wonderful black king is what you will get.

Show me your pride
Stand by my side.
Let God be your guide
And love will abide

Amen

“A wise lover values not so much the gift of the lover as the love of the giver" Thomas à Kempis

Thursday, February 19, 2009

IF A MAN WANTS YOU...

If a man wants you, nothing can keep him away. If he doesn't want you, nothing can make him stay. Stop making excuses for a man and his behavior. Allow your intuition (or spirit) to save you from heartache. Stop trying to change yourselves for a relationship that's not meant to be. Slower is better. Never live your life for a man before you find what makes you truly happy. If a relationship ends because the man was not treating you as you deserve then heck no, you can't "be friends." A friend wouldn't mistreat a friend. Don't settle. If you feel like he is stringing you along, then he probably is. Don't stay because you think "it will get better." You'll be mad at yourself in a year later for staying when things are not better. The only person you can control in a relationship is you. Avoid men who've got a bunch of children by a bunch of different women. He didn't marry them when he got them pregnant, why would he treat you any differently? Always have your own set of friends separate from his. Maintain boundaries in how a guy treats you. If something bothers you, speak up. Never let a man know everything. He will use it against you later. You cannot change a man's behavior. Change comes from within. Don't EVER make him feel he is more important than you are...even if he has more education or in a better job. Do not make him into a quasi-god. He is a man, nothing more nothing less. Never let a man define who you are. Never borrow someone else's man. Oh Lord! If he cheated with you, he'll cheat on you. A man will only treat you the way you ALLOW him to treat you. All men are NOT dogs. You should not be the one doing all the bending...compromise is a two-way street. You need time to heal between relationships...there is nothing cute about baggage... deal with your issues before pursuing a new relationship You should never look for someone to COMPLETE you...a relationship consists of two WHOLE individuals...look for someone complimentary...not supplementary. Dating is fun...even if he doesn't turn out to be Mr. Right. Make him miss you sometimes...when a man always know where you are, and your always readily available to him- he takes it for granted. Don't fully commit to a man who doesn't give you everything that you need. Keep him in your radar but get to know others. Share this with other ladies..... You'll make someone SMILE, another RETHINK her choices and another woman PREPARE. They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them and an entire lifetime to forget them.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, the author of this very moving letter is yet to be found. It is considered to be penned by Oprah Winfrey. In attempting to get to the bottom of this mystery, many have read through three life histories of Oprah’s. None contained any of the supposed quotes, but those biographies could have been published before she made these remarks, so not finding them proves nothing. Some have e-mailed The Oprah Winfrey Show to ask about the list. While some did immediately receive a standard auto-reply thanking them for writing (which at least confirms it went to the right place), many have heard nothing since.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

I am Abundantly Blessed

DEAR GOD,

I want to thank You for what You have already done.

I am not going to wait until I see results or receive rewards;

I am thanking You right now.

I am not going to wait until I feel better or things look better;

I am thanking You right now.

I am not going to wait until people say they are sorry or until they stop talking about me;

I am thanking You right now.

I am not going to wait until the pain in my body disappears;

I am thanking You right now.

I am not going to wait until my financial situation improves;

I am going to thank You right now.

I am not going to wait until my son is safe and asleep and the house is quiet;

I am going to thank You right now.

I am not going to wait until I get promoted in this life or until I get the job;

I am going to thank You right now.

I am not going to wait until I understand every experience in my life that has caused me pain or grief;

I am thanking You right now.

I am not going to wait until the journey gets easier or the challenges are removed;

I am thanking You right now.

I am thanking You because I am alive.

I am thanking You because I made it through the day's difficulties.

I am thanking You because I have walked around the obstacles..

I am thanking You because I have the ability and the opportunity to do more and do better.

I'm thanking you because, Father, You haven't given up on me. Even during this season in my life has pierced my heart with pain. I will forever have faith in You. Abba, we've been here before and I trusted You in the past as I will do so no matter come what may. Lord, I love you dearly and more than anything in the world and that is why I will in anything and everything continue give You praise and glory. For this is Your will in Christ Jesus concerning me!

SIX REASONS WHY MEN LEAVE

I’m a true believer in that any relationship without God will not work. A right relationship with God leads to right relationships with fellow believers. Although we will not always feel loving toward all other believers, we must pursue peace as we become more Christ-like. The Bible says in 1 John 4:20, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, this single verse tells it all. Broken relationships can hinder our relationship with God. If we have a problem or grievance with a friend, we should resolve the problem as soon as possible. We are hypocrites if we claim to love God while we hate others. Our attitudes toward others reflect our relationship with God.

After a relationship ends, whether it's a 20 year marriage or a promising romance, women ask themselves over and over, what went wrong? They ask themselves, their girlfriends and their therapists. Sometimes they even spend weeks and months blaming themselves and become afraid to try again. Once they know what really happened, it's always easier to move on.

Below are some top reasons men leave and some guidelines on how to handle this.

1. THEY'RE WAITING FOR THE PERFECT PARTNER:

Some men have a secret fantasy which whispers that a perfect partner is somewhere, around the corner, waiting for him. This perfect partner will not only accept him as he is fully, but he'll finally be able to express the parts of himself that are hidden. She'll bring out the best in him. Rather than criticize and make demands, the perfect partner will give unconditionally and fulfill his every need. This fantasy should not be discounted, as it fuels much of this man's inner life. When a woman understands this fantasy fully, she has a secret for helping the man really thrive.

2. THEY HEAR A CALL TO ADVENTURE

As soon as some men see a relationship as stifling his basic need for adventure, he can feel himself to be trapped in a prison without bars. Many men then blame the relationship for the dilemma he is in. They do not realize that their true need is to find adventure in the relationship. A woman who does best in this kind of relationship is one who provides challenge.

3. THEY SUFFER FROM A FEAR OF COMMITMENT.

The fear of commitment is widely misunderstood. Commitment is inevitable when a man is living from the truth of who he is. When a man, however, is in a relationship out of obligation, guilt, on or to fulfill a false sense of self-esteem, no real commitment is possible. If he's not committing, it's because he doesn't feel things are right for him.

4. THEY FEAR THAT THEY CAN'T SATISFY THE WOMAN

There are some women who can never be satisfied no matter how much a man gives or tries to please. Some men become tied up in knots in these relationships and start to feel terrible about themselves. No matter how hard they try, they can't get the approval they are hungry for. Some just live for those rare moments when they are acknowledged and thanked.

5. HE’S ACTING OUT THE REPETITION COMPULSION

The Repetition Compulsion is the unconscious compulsion to repeat a painful situation or relationship over and over, in the hopes it will turn out differently this time. Usually each time is worse, brings more pain and disappointment. Even in the rare instances when the person gets what he wants, the original hunger does not subside. The only solution to this compulsion is to go back to the original trauma, face it fully and work it out.

6. HE'S INVOLVED WITH THE GHOST OF A PAST RELATIONSHIP

These Ghosts are memories, dreams and longings that linger from past relationships, which have been finished but are not over. A man can hold onto the memory of a former wife or lover and idealize her to such an extent, it prevents him from being available to anyone in the present. These memories can also become projected on the current relationship. These men must learn to say forgive the past, say good-bye, and develop the courage to love again. Here are some guidelines for all my dear sisters and brothers in Christ to help understand relationships better and behave in a way that is helpful for all.

FOR MY DEAR SISTERS IN CHRIST

A. Realize the turbulence a man goes through often has nothing to do with you - and cannot be avoided.

B. Give him space to discover himself, without guilt. His changes do not mean he does not love you. Allow him to be all that he is. Acceptance is love.

C. Get busy becoming all the person you can be too. There is nothing worse for a relationship than a man feeling you are clinging to him for your life.

FOR MY DEAR BROTHERS IN CHRIST
A. Restlessness and painful feelings come so you can understand yourself better. Don't blame them on the relationship. This is not a time to run away, but stay put and understands what is going on inside.

B. While you are unsettled and confused is not the best time to act. Choices made during this time are often ruled by feelings and needs from the past.

C. Make sure you help the woman realize what you are going through. Do not blame her for it. Be patient with her and yourself. - Understand that craving other women can become an addiction and escape from intimacy, bringing only more pain and repetition in its wake.

Beloved brothers and sisters, all this reminds me of a story of a young lady in Bible College who began dating a fellow. During their first month of dating, they decided to study the Bible together. With her plot well set, one night the young lady opened her Bible to Proverbs 18:22 and read, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” She then looked up, winked, and said to the young man, “Couldn’t you use a little favor from the Lord?” The young man, a Bible scholar, was quick with his reply from Proverbs 10:10—“He who winks the eye causes trouble.”

All jokes aside, I agree with you wholeheartedly but prophetically speaking, we must realize that dating doesn't train young people for marriage; it prepares them for divorce. Dating typically involves a series of short-term relationships. Even those who end up with a solid marriage often have to deal with a lot of painful emotional baggage from previous dating relationships.

A lot is said these days of abstaining from sex before marriage, but there is a great need for emotional abstinence as well. Courtship in the context of the family enables young people to get to know each other and yet still maintain their physical and emotional integrity.

ADD GOD TO IT
I beseech you my dear brothers and sisters in Christ simply and wholeheartedly add God to you relationships and He will bless it or guide you through it. And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. There are advantages to cooperating with others when you add God to it. Life is designed for companionship, not isolation, for intimacy, not loneliness. Some people prefer isolation, thinking they cannot trust anyone. We are not here on earth to serve ourselves, however, but to serve God and others. Don’t isolate yourself and try to go it alone, add God to it. Seek companions; be a team member and add God to it.

We are wrapped up in Jesus by the threefold cord of the trinity that abides in us and us in them! Keep a piece cord in your Bible to remind you of the strength you have if you just God to it!

PS. Oh by the way, did I say, add God to it? Oh, yes I did. Amen!

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

THE MIND OF A MAVERICK

Have you ever wondered why you are unsettled in your spirit about a variety of people, places, things and/or ideologies?

You are probably a maverick and just don't realize your true identity! Webster defines a maverick as someone who is a pioneer or an individual who does not go along with the group. History records many men and women who pioneered new areas and colored outside the lines of tradition and conformity.

Lee Iacocca was a maverick who came from the outside to reinvent Chrysler from the top down.

Mavericks meet opposition in their quest for the new and untried ways of doing things. When offering ideas or suggestions, you may have received some of the following responses.

* That's not the way we do things around here.

* Are you suggesting that what we are doing is wrong?

* We have always done it this way.* That can't be done.

* When you have been here as long as we have, you will understand that what you are suggesting is impossible.

Why are you meeting such opposition? It is because you are a maverick! Don't allow the pressure of a calcified routine to kill the maverick spirit inside you. Don't allow the opposition to cause you to be limited to coloring inside someone else's lines.The world is waiting for you to bring it out of a fading glory and into its finest hour. Be who you are! Be the maverick that the world is waiting for!

Don't think I've come to make life cozy. I've come to cut Make a sharp knife-cut between
Son and father, Daughter and mother, Bride and mother-in-law, cut through these cozy domestic arrangements and free you for God. Well-meaning family members can be your worst enemies.

If you prefer father or mother over me,
You don't deserve me.

If you prefer son or daughter over me,
You don't deserve me.

"If you don't go all the way with me, through thick and thin,

you don't deserve me.

If your first concern is to look after yourself,
You’ll never find yourself.

But if you forget about yourself and look to me,
You’ll find both yourself and me.

"We are intimately linked in this harvest work.

Anyone who accepts what you do,
Accepts me, the One who sent you...

Anyone who accepts what I do,
Accepts my Father, who sent me.

Matthew 10:34-40 (The Message Translation)

My dear sister in Christ, Minister Tracy Curtis, Thank you so much for allowing me to share the word of encouragement your Bishop sent you.

Though I've always considered myself as a maverick, I will never quarrel about issues that are matters of opinion. Differences should not be feared or avoided, but accepted and handled with love. Don’t expect everyone, even in the best possible church, to agree on every subject. Through sharing ideas we can come to a fuller understanding of what the Bible teaches. Accept, listen to, and respect others. Differences of opinion need not cause division. They can be a source of learning and richness in our relationships.

All Christians are part of God’s family. Believers share a unity that runs even deeper than that of blood brothers and sisters. To "agree with one another," allow for "no divisions" and "be perfectly united in mind and thought" does not require everyone to believe exactly the same.

There is a difference between having opposing viewpoints and being divisive. A group of people will not completely agree on every issue, but they can work together harmoniously if they agree on what truly matters, Jesus Christ is Lord of all. In your church, speak and behave in a way that will reduce arguments and increase harmony. Petty differences should never divide Christians.

Words from Mrs. Vicenta Ventura Vazquez' only baby boy, now a wise young man but forever the middle child, the one she called, Andy.

Elder J. Andres Vazquez.

MY THEOLOGICAL TRAINING:

It brings to my face a unadulterated smile each and every occasion I am asked, “Elder Dre, What Theological Training do you have?”

My heart beams with joy at the opportunity to humbly give full glory to God as I reflect on on how the prophets, patriarchs and apostles of old would have respond: Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joshua, Gideon, King David, Elijah, Elisha, Jeremiah, John the Baptist, Matthew, Mark, Peter, James, John and the other disciples, not forgetting the Saviour Himself.

How would they have answered the question: “What theological training do you have?”

The words of the prophet Amos also came to mind: “Then answered Amos, and said to Amaziah, I was no prophet, neither was I a prophet’s son; but I was an herdman, and a gatherer of sycomore fruit:” Amos 7:14

I surely am not impliedly decrying theological preparation, education or training: I consider it essential, but not as much as some think. For the fact is, the Almighty raises up believers according to His own standards.

Educational qualifications, wealth, fame, talent, social standing, outward appearance etc. are useful; but they are secondary in His sight. Qualities like faith, obedience, holiness, humility, honesty, absolute loyalty to one’s spouse, the ability to raise one’s family to fear God and keep His commandments etc.; these are the things the Most High values.

“Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”

Only on the Day of Judgment will it be known how truly educated, weighty and effective I have been. That is why I have to smile when the question arise.

The vanity of the question is only matched by the foolishness of my answer.

As the wise man wrote: “Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher; all is vanity.” Ecclesiastes 1: 2 or as the apostle Paul commented in 2 Corinthians 11:16-30 when rattling off a long list of impressive qualifications “... I speak as a fool.”

Furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. All who proclaim that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. 1 John 4:14-15 (NLT)

I am a preacher, but most of all, I proclaim that Jesus is the Savior with various applications of that truth in my everyday life. My dear friend, if you are a Christian, you are a preacher also. Whether you have been ordained or not, hired by a church or not, or ever been recognized as a preacher or not is beside the point. All who have God living in them are called to proclaim the Savior to the world. It is a Holy calling, and a demanding one. It will pull you out of your comfort zone, challenge your commitment, and help to develop you into the person God has created you to be.

John spoke as an eyewitness to Jesus' saving power. We speak as heart-witnesses; ones who have not seen Jesus with our eyes, but have experienced Him through personal transformation. I speak, and you speak, as a representative of Christ on earth. The message that we bring is simple, yet profound; that God the Father sent God the Son into the world to save those who are lost to bring them into relationship with Him. As you tell the story, and I tell the story, some will listen and receive the grace that God has sent us into the world to proclaim.

PRAYER THOUGHT: Father, what a privilege to be a spokesperson for You.

You are invited into the abundance of my heart.

In Luke 6:45, Jesus reminds us that a good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.

Our speech and actions reveal the true underlying beliefs, attitudes, and motivations. The good impressions we try to make cannot last if our hearts are deceptive. What is in your heart will come out in your speech and behavior.

Here, as you read this blog realize that you are actually witnessing the abundance of my heart through word.

Now I ask,

What's in your heart?