Post #86(b) - Is He/She The One?

People will sometimes come into our lives to distract or test us. 

Are we praying to God? Are we listening? Are we focused on God and His desires for us? 

Too often than not, we don't pray to God about our potential mates. We fall for the first thing that smiles at us and are disappointed when the relationship doesn't work out. We could save ourselves a whole lot of heartache if we would just pray first.

The bible says that when a man finds a wife, he finds a good thing and obtains favor from God (Proverbs 18:22). 

So, women, are you wife material when he finds you? Do you possess the qualities of a godly wife? Are you considering his relationship with God - if he even has one? Or are you only considering his chest and his arms? 

Men, are you choosing a woman because of her godly mind and qualities? Or only because of the qualities you can see with the eye? Are you consulting God about her? Are you asking whether or not she should be in your life?

Is she your good thing? 

One of the reasons so many relationships fail is because we enter them for the wrong reasons - with the wrong intentions. We are attracted to physical qualities or personality traits that draw our attention. But, soon, the very thing that seems to make us fall in love with the person is the thing that aggravates us the most. That wasn't love. But, likely, lust disguising itself as love.

This is why we must be sure before entering a relationship that the person is right for us. That the person is not a waste of our time. This is why we must go to God.

When we allow the wrong person into our lives, God works to show us that he or she should not be there. He raises a standard, not allowing us to accept anything less than what He's got for us. He gives us signs. He shows us where the person is not right for us and how we are unequally yoked. 

But we tend to ignore the signs. We allow our emotions to cloud our judgment. And we stay with the person longer than we are supposed to. 

Sometimes, it's not God's intention for us to enter into a relationship with the person. They were only supposed to be in our lives for a season. But we make marriage plans and vow to be with them forever.

This is where we go wrong. This is why our relationships fail.

It is important that before we allow ourselves into relationships and before we let them go too far, we pray about them - consult God and patiently listen for His response.

God will always guide us in the right direction and He will never leave us stranded in a dark place.

Post #86(a) - God's Business

I have been reading and listening to the bible, the New Testament, a lot more than usual lately. Once I finish, I start over again and each time I seem to catch something new that I didn't catch before. During one of the readings, I began to notice how Jesus, Peter, Paul, and the early apostles handled opposition. 

I noticed that they didn't attempt to fight over meaningless, petty topics. They only "fought" about God's business. 

The one time in the bible when we see Jesus get unusually angry is when He runs the merchants out of the temple. He overturned the merchants' tables and shouted, "it is written, My house will be called a house of prayer, but you have made it into a den of thieves!"

Even in this instance, when we see Jesus at His angriest, He is not mad about the petty complaints brought to Him or His enemies opposing Him. He is not fighting over someone leaving Him or having a different opinion than Him or things not going His way. We only see Jesus fighting over God's business. 

We see this in the early apostles as well. These were men who started out the same way we did, not understanding their authority and power in the Lord. But when they came to that understanding, they left the petty arguments for someone else to fight. They focused on God and God's business. 

That's the way we should be. Our focus should be in only one direction. But, we allow foolishness to distract us and make us act other than godly. We neglect to practice patience or show compassion. If someone offends us or exerts power over us, we fly right into a rage and try to prove that we are badder than they are.

Why don't we fight for God's business like that? 

Why don't we get mad when the devil opposes us? Why don't we fly into a rage when he tries to exert power over us? Why don't we use our godly anger to put the devil in his place? To show him that we are badder than he is?

We should take a lesson from Jesus and the early apostles and believers who put pettiness in its place. They only fought against the devil, only for the kingdom of God. They understood the importance of praying and fasting and rebuking the enemy. 

They understood the power in not allowing difficult situations make us forget who we are in the Lord. When they were knocked down, they got back up... They were attacked and beaten and stoned, and they still kept their focus on God and went about completing His work. 

They didn't fight for recognition or titles. They didn't fight to be in charge or get the spotlight. They only fought for God's business. 

We, like they, should only be fighting for God's business, too. 

Post #85 - What To Do With The Pain | Experience: Life

Many of us, when we are faced with painful situations, fall apart. We dwell in the pain and let it stop us from moving forward. Many fall into a deep depression and become unable to cope with life. We tend to allow the pain to hold us hostage and take over us.

But, the best way to deal with pain is to use it to our advantage. 

Let the pain propel you forward!

Let the pain help you make up your mind to go for that dream you've been putting off.

Use it to fuel your courage to take a chance at doing something you've been wanting to do or go somewhere you've been wanting to go.

What do you have to lose? You're already feeling pain and sadness. What can anything or anyone else do to hurt you? 

You don't have to let your feelings control you. You don't have to handle your pain the way people expect you to. 

You can take control of your pain! You can turn the tables on it and use it the way it wants to use you!

You are in control. And the time is NOW. 

Don't wait until the pain has passed and you've allowed bitterness and resentment to take its place. 

Go after your dreams NOW!

Take up that hobby NOW! 

Improve yourself NOW! 

Recognize your worth NOW! 

There's no reason to accept the pain, wallow in it, and let it take over your life. 

Get mad at the pain and use it!

Use it as your launching pad!

You deserve everything that God has for you! 

And all of His blessings are waiting for you in your triumph... on the other side of that pain.

GO GET THEM!! 

Post #84 - Just Do It

I know the commands of God can be difficult. I know the dreams He gives you are big and you don't think you can do them. I know you're scared that you can't handle it on your own.

But, you're not meant to. 

What God has purposed you to do, He will provide for you to do. Most of the tools you need, you have already been equipped with. Your ability to draw, speak, sing, dance... whatever it is, God has equipped you with it to accomplish His purpose for your life. 

And I know the purpose seems so much bigger than you. I know you are afraid of it and you believe you're going to get lost in it. I know you're afraid of failing. Afraid to disappoint God. I know you're afraid of the opposition. 

But, God has you covered there, too. God will hide you in the shelter of His arms and lift you up on a rock (Psalm 27:5). He will keep you covered and lifted higher than your haters can reach.

So, whatever it is that God is calling you to do, just do it. 

Trust God when He says that He will work it out for you. Trust Him when He tells you that He will protect you in your obedience and make the burden of your purpose light for you. Trust Him when He says that He loves you and He will never leave nor forsake you. 

You may not be able to do it by your own might, but anything, everything, is possible with God.

So, just do it!

Is it writing a book or preaching the word? Just do it.

Is it singing His praises or worshipping Him in dance? Just do it.

Whatever God is telling you to do, do it. Worship Him with your obedience. And He WILL bless every good thing you do.

Post #83 - That Ain’t Love

You think you love him, but what do you really know about him? All you really know is that he looks good and he has a great body.

And his penis feels good when he’s screwing you.

But, do you know his likes and dislikes? Does he know yours? Do you know his favorite color or what type of music he likes? Do you know his favorite foods or what makes him tick?

How can you say you love him when you don’t know anything about him?

That ain’t love, honey! That’s lust!

You probably don’t even care about those little details. Those things don’t interest you. The only thing you care about is when you’re going to get to see him again.

Just for a little while… for a little fun… a little lay.

It makes you feel less than valuable when it’s over. He hurries to get dressed and runs out of the door once he’s satisfied. But you convince yourself that he loves you when he kisses you goodbye.

Stop fooling yourself!

It ain’t love. It’s lust.

Let it go, sweetheart.

First, love yourself. Then you’ll be able to attract the RIGHT man to love you. And you’ll be better off!

Post #82(b) - Sensitive to the Truth

Some people can't handle the truth. When they hear the truth, though it pertains to them, they refuse to accept it. They, instead, get upset and begin to take their anger out on the one who told them the truth.

The truth is hard to accept sometimes. It hits us in a sensitive place, making us feel hurt and humiliated. But the truth is not meant to harm us. It is meant to convict us; to show us where we are wrong so that we can make it right.

The truth is meant to set us free.

So, why do we run from it? Why do we rebel against it? Why do we get upset when we hear the truth?

Instead of taking offense to the truth, we ought to accept it. We ought to tap into that mature place within us that yearns for growth from correction.

The bible warns us that it is stupid to hate correction and a fool hates those who corrects him (Proverbs 12:1, Proverbs 15:12). But he who heeds and learns from life-giving correction is counted among the wise (Proverbs 15:5, 31).

We shouldn't be sensitive to the truth. We should receive and accept it. Letting it grow and develop us. 

If we are wise, we would accept the truth. And let the truth set us free!

Post #82(a) - The Maturity of Taking Responsibility

Taking responsibility for yourself and your actions shows maturity. 

We can't continue to blame others for our actions and reactions. We have the ability to practice self control and ensure that we don't do or say anything that we will later regret and have to blame someone else for. 

No one but us can control our mouths or our members, so why do we blame others when we act out of character? It is our responsibility to govern ourselves and control our tongues. James 1:26 says that if we say we are religious and serve God but we do not control our tongues, we are fooling ourselves and our religion is worthless!

Or do you think you are perfect? The bible says that "if anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is perfect, able to keep his whole body in check" (James 3:2). But this isn't you, is it? 

Many of us allow anger to control us, getting upset and aggravated about every little thing. Then we blame the person we are mad at for our anger. But the bible tells us that it is we that need to control our anger, because anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. We should, instead, be slow to become angry, slow to speak, and quick to listen (James 1:19-20).

Self control is a show of faith. It shows God that we trust Him to handle the difficult situations that we are in. So, we control ourselves, submit to God in prayer, and wait for Him to handle our situations. 

This is the kind of behavior that pleases God. And without faith, it's impossible to please Him.

Taking note of our faults is not a show of failure or weakness. In fact, it makes us stronger and wiser. 2 Peter 1:5-10 says that we must make every effort to have faith, and add goodness to that faith; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self control; and to self control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 

The bible says, if we possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep us from being ineffective and unproductive in our knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ... If we do these things, we will never fail.

So, not only does taking responsibility for ourselves mature us... it benefits us.

Post #81(b) - Change Your Thoughts

This morning, I caught myself acting on a thought that I didn't even believe. I don't know why I thought it, where it came from, or why I gave it any merit. I have never seen any reason to substantiate it. 

But, I found myself fearing something that wasn't even a possibility because of a random thought. 

This is why we must control the thoughts that we allow to enter our minds. We cannot entertain everything that we think. Those negative thoughts that do not deserve a place in our minds need to be rebuked and cast out. 

Immediately!

We cannot, even for a moment, allow ourselves to continue to think on things that bring about negative emotions and fear. We've got to change the narrative of our minds and think on things that are good, uplifting, and true. 

Philippians 4:8 says, "...whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things."

We can't let worrisome thoughts fester in our minds and effect the way we act or speak or treat one another. We should worry about nothing, but with thanksgiving, bring all of our requests to God. And trust Him to handle it. 

So, if the way you believe or the thoughts you think are causing you to act in fear our causing someone else fear, you should cancel those thoughts right away. And think on things that are good and perfect and true. Think on things that are going to edify yourself and those connected to you. 

And God will give you peace (Philippians 4:9)!

Post #81(a) - You Are At War! Get Up and Fight!

Who's afraid of the devil?

Raise your hand.

Why? Why are you afraid of the devil?

Don't you know what the bible says about you? Don't you know who you are? Don't you know the God you serve?

Why are you afraid of the devil??

You don't have to be afraid of him. You just have to know how to fight him. 

The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4).

We can't fight the enemy with fists and bats. We can't fight him with tears or complaints. We can't defeat him with lofty, meaningless words.

We can only defeat the devil with the word of God!

God says that we are being too passive in the way we deal with the enemy. We deal with him as if we are afraid of him. We speak quietly and act timid and cower away from his opposition. 

But, we are at war! It's time to get up and fight!! 

We've forgotten who we are in God and the authority that He has given to us. 

The bible says that we have authority over all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19). That means that the enemy is POWERLESS! That means that he can do nothing to us unless we let him. 

And we're not letting him do ANYTHING! We are no longer being passive and allowing the enemy to get away with his lies and slick tricks! The enemy is DEFEATED!!

James 4:7 tells us that after we have submitted ourselves to God, to resist the devil and he WILL flee from us. 

We have to humble ourselves to God's authority and He will strengthen us to walk in our own. And with the whole armor of God, we can withstand the wiles of the devil (Ephesians 6:11).

We can withstand him with our loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith we shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And we can take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:14-17).

It is with the word of God that the enemy is defeated. It is with the word of God that we are overcomers! 

Speak the word of God over the devil and he has got to flee from you!

Stand in your position of authority! Walk in it! And demand the enemy take his place beneath your feet! 

We are at war, brothers and sisters! Let's get up and FIGHT!! 

Post #80(b) - There is No Padded Cross

As I was reading the bible today, I was reflecting on my life and the prophetic words spoken over me. I realized, then, the amazing importance of my spiritual journey. 

It has been wrought with ups and downs, aches and pains, sorrows and happiness, disappointments and victories.... and valuable, life changing lessons.

I know I sound like a broken record when I say that we will all endure tests and trials. But, it's because someone isn't getting it. Someone is going through a test right now, and is breaking down because of it, thinking the world is against him.

We tend to think that we are never supposed to go through hard times. We are afraid to go through anything uncomfortable. We are afraid to step out of our comfort zones and into God's grace. 

But, Jesus warns that we will suffer persecution and tribulation in this life. He says in Matthew 10:38, "Anyone who does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. Whosoever finds his life will lose it, and whosoever loses his life for My sake will find it." 

In saying this, Jesus is telling us that if we love Him, if we give our lives to Him, we will suffer with Him. If we suffer with Him, we will reign with Him. But if we choose not to suffer with Him, we are not worthy of Him.

But, in suffering with Christ, we are made perfect. We are mature and complete, lacking nothing (James 1:4). And God will not give us more than we can bear. Just the same way trouble finds us, God will make us a way out of it. 

But, there are no padded crosses. We have to be willing to hurt for a little while. Endure a little discomfort. And grow in it - learn from it. 

Just like Jesus had to endure His lashes and beatings, we have to endure our hardships of life. And we have to endure them with patience and obedience to God. 

It's only for a season. The trouble won't last always. And when we pass through it, we will be better than we were before. More mature, stronger, having more wisdom, and standing steadfast in Christ - knowing that He will never leave us nor forsake us. 

He will be with us - leading us, comforting us, blessing us...

So, we can have faith, take up our crosses, and follow Him.

Post #80(a) - Dream Killers

There will always be somebody who doesn't quite understand why you do what you do. Why you believe the way you do. 

There will always be somebody who is willing to put you down and hurt you because of your dreams and your gifts.

There will always be somebody who is willing to tell you that you can not accomplish your goals or your dreams. 

There will always be dream killers.

But you've got to be bigger than them. You've got to continue to think bigger than them.

You've got to know who you are and who God has called you to be. You've got to be confident enough to ignore the chatter. And be bold enough to continue moving forward toward your dreams and your purpose. 

God is the author of your desires and dreams. He is the one that has blessed you with your various gifts and talents. And He is the only one who can anoint you to use them.

Not your naysayers!

Roman's 8:31 says that if God is for you, who can be against you? 

Nobody! 

And when you obey God despite the opposition, He will bless you. No eyes have seen, and no ears have heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man, all that God has prepared for them that love and obey Him (1 Corinthians 2:9).

So, forget the naysayers. Forget those who say that you can't or you won't. Forget those who don't understand why you go against the norm. Forget those who try to keep you down because they are going nowhere themselves.

Forget the dream killers!

You just keep pushing forward in the way God has led you... and watch Him bless you!

Post #79(b) - Poem: Footprints In the Sand

Footprints 
By: Margaret Fishback Powers

One night I dreamed a dream.
I was walking along the beach with my Lord.
Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life.
For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand,
one belonging to me and one to my Lord.

When the last scene of my life shot before me,
I looked back at the footprints in the sand.
There was only one set of footprints.
I realized that this was the lowest
and saddest times of my life.
This always bothered me
and I questioned the Lord about my dilemma.

"Lord, You told me when I decided to follow You,
You would walk and talk with me all the way.
But I'm aware that during the most troublesome times of my life,
there is only one set of footprints.
I just don't understand why, when I need you most,
You leave me."

He whispered, "My precious child, I love you
and I will never leave you, never, ever,
during your trials and testings.
When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you."


Poem retrieved from Pinterest.com

Post #79(a) - You're Not Alone

Did you know that you are not the only one going through that? Did you know that others share the same struggles as you?

Sometimes, it feels like we are alone, like no one understands what we are going through. But we all share many of the same tests and trials. 

I was talking to a friend the other day, and she shared with me an ordeal that she has been going through. It was exactly the same thing I had been struggling with. 

I hadn't shared this issue with her. It's a personal situation that I had kept to myself. But, there she was, sharing my struggle word for word - except the struggle was hers!

As my friend finished speaking, I heard God say, "You are not alone." 

In a way, that comforted me. Not because she was dealing with something. But because there was someone who understood. There are people who share our same experiences and problems. People who can relate to what we are going through. 

That's why we should talk about our problems and not hold them in. Held in issues take root and become bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness, and hate. Held in issues hold us back from healing and freedom. 

I'm not saying to tell all your problems to everyone. You should find someone you trust. Someone you can talk to in confidence, who will not share your business with others. 

Galatians 6:2 tells us to carry each other's burdens. To help each other out and encourage one another in times of trouble. 

Many people commit suicide or attempt to do so because they feel like they are alone. That no one understands or can relate with them. That no one cares. 

But there are so many people who know EXACTLY what you've been through or are going through. Their testimony can help you. And your testimony can help somebody else.

So, let's not dwell in our sorrows by ourselves. Not only is God always there for us. Never leaving nor forsaking us. But we have each other to look to for love and encouragement. 

We are not alone.

Post #78(b) - Don't Get Distracted

There are so many distractions. So many things that can draw our attention away from what's important. Things that can pull us away from God.

Work, school, family, or just our own selfish desires.

I have struggled with distractions lately. It was difficult to get one thing done before I had to worry about doing something else. Or, I would get caught up in my own thoughts, dreaming about what could be. 

The problem is, I lost focus of what REALLY needed to be done. I fell into the trap of trying to do everything at once, or getting so overwhelmed or sidetracked that nothing got done. This can be dangerous when there are deadlines and expectations, especially when it comes to ministry.

But, no matter what it is, we have to stay focused. No matter what tries to draw our attention, we can't let anything or anyone turn us away from God.

Focusing has been my focus this week. And because I've had to switch my focus back to God and concentrate on other things, I've been unable to devote a lot of my time to writing. 

When God demands our attention, we've got to put all else aside and focus on Him.

And we can't get distracted! 

The enemy will try to make us believe that the works are what's important. That we have to focus on our jobs and different projects and put all of our time into our responsibilities to be most effective. 

But, Colossians 3:2 tells us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Hebrews 3:1 tells us to fix our thoughts on Jesus.

When we seek and acknowledge the kingdom of God first, above all else, God will give us the tools we need to do the job, to complete the project... and pursue His purpose. He will give us everything we need (Matthew 6:33). 

So, I've been changing my focus. Not solely focusing on the things of God or the work I have to do for God, but on God Himself. God is the creator of the work. He is the reason for it. He is bigger than it.

So, we can't allow ourselves to be distracted by the works of life. But, set our eyes on the One who helps us accomplish them!

Post #78(a) - Can God Trust You?

I have told you many times, and I try to impress upon you, the truth that we will endure trials in this life. We cannot escape them.

There is not a person on this earth who has not endured a trial at some point in life. Trials are always around the corner. We are either about to go through a trial, just coming out of one, or are in a trial right now. It's the reality of life.

An unfortunate reality.

Trials are difficult and hard to navigate. Hard to endure.

But, we CAN endure them!

Romans 5:3-4 tells us to "rejoice...when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation."

Consider Job.

Job was the most righteous man in the land... and the richest. God pointed Job out to Satan, saying that he was "the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless—a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil.”

Satan protested saying that Job had reason to fear God. God kept him protected and prospered him in everything he did. And Satan challenged God, telling Him to "reach out and take away everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face!”

God gave the devil permission to test Job. And Satan killed all of his children. All his farmhands and servants died. And all of his animals were either stolen or killed. The bible says that "in all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God."

Job continued to be tested by Satan, who took away his health, giving him terrible boils all over his body. But, though Job did not understand his trial and even asked why it had to happen to him, he never let go of his faith in God.

In fact, when Job's wife told him to just curse God and die, Job asked her, "should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?”

That's our biggest problem... expecting only good things from God, and viciously blaming Him when something bad happens. Why do we do this? Why do we expect only good in a broken world?

Job was wise in understanding that both good and bad things happen and that they all come from God. If we accept them, endure them, and maintain our trust in God, He will strengthen and bless us.

In the end, because Job was faithful to the Lord, and trusted God through his trials, God restored Job's riches and blessed him with twice as much as what he had before! Job lived a long, full life and died surrounded by four generations of his children and grandchildren.

Job's immortal words "though he slay me, yet will I trust in him," should be in the hearts and minds of all of us. We should rejoice in our trials! And know that God trusts us to endure them - to trust Him through them.

He has chosen us to endure so that He can strengthen, teach, build, and elevate us. He trusts us in trouble.

And we should trust Him to bring us through!

Post #77(b) - Warriors Unite!

Our spiritual walk is kind of like being in the military. I served in the US Marine Corps, where we learned the importance of teamwork and having each other's backs - especially in combat. 

The concepts of camaraderie and brotherhood were an important part of the Marine Corps culture. Camaraderie promotes esprit de corps, and bonds Marines like brothers, making it easier to work as a team. 

This is what God desires for the church. That we love, bond, and unite with one another. That we fight for and alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ - not against them. 

We must realize that we are either in or preparing for battle. And that we've got to fight together.

So many people in the church are against one another - comparing, competing, judging - and are keeping the church divided.

Jesus prayed in John 17:20-25 that we, as believers, will be unified as one. That we would be one, as He and God are one. He wants us to be unified as witnesses to His love. To the truth and fulfillment of God's love for us.

But, we compete for the spotlight, saying it's God's will and that we are doing it for God. If that were true, we would be lifting our brothers and sisters up with us. Not putting them down because we see them as a threat. Because they have a similar gift as ours.

We are all fighting for the same God and for the same purpose - to advance God's kingdom. We should be fighting together to further this advancement, not tearing the church apart with our jealousy and division.

We are fighting the wrong enemy!!

We, the children of God, should be banding together as soldiers. Showing our love for one another. And fighting for the lives of our brothers on the battlefield.

When we see our brother or sister fall, we must lift them up with encouragement and prayer. When they are overtaken, we must fight to bring them back to Christ. Back to freedom.

We must lay our lives down for our brothers, putting away pride and envy. And realizing how much we need one another. Not thinking of ourselves as better than anyone, and not putting anyone above ourselves. 

Humility is needed. And the understanding that we are fighting a spiritual war. We need to recognize who our real enemy is, and know that it is not each other. Then we must think and act strategically, putting God first in our hearts and minds, and putting away division and hate.

We have to remember that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ... (2 Corinthians 10:4-5).

We are at war! And the enemy is trying to corrupt our minds and steal our joy. He is trying to distract us from who we truly are, and who we are to one another. He is trying to destroy the church by keeping us divided, fighting against one another, rather than with and for each other.

We are warriors of God, and it's time we banded together in unity! We must pick up our weapons of prayer and the word of God, and fight the fight of salvation.

Together.

And we must never leave any ONE behind. 

Post #77(a) - The Responsibility of Disobedience

Many believe that God gave us free will so that we can do what we want to do. Well, sort of. But, not in the sense of breaking laws and such... We are expected to do what's right and follow the law of the land.

Free will was given to us so that we can freely decide whether or not we want to accept and follow Christ. 

He doesn't force Himself on us. He doesn't make us serve Him. He gives us the choice.

But, when we serve and obey Him, God takes all the responsibility of our lives off of us and He puts it on Himself. When we follow God and are obedient to His will, He is responsible for our health and healing, our employment and finances, our children, our minds, our relationships, our connections....

God takes responsibility for it all! 

But... when we don't accept Christ and when we are not obedient to His will, we must bear the responsibility ourselves. 

God's will is perfect, and it is exceedingly better than anything we could ever want or do for ourselves. And if we choose not to follow His will, He leaves us to our own devices. He lets us figure it out on our own until we choose to ask Him for His help. 

If we accept His grace and guidance and are obedient to His will, He will take control and responsibility of every area of our lives and bless us abundantly. It's when we are disobedient to God's will and are following our own desires that He leaves the responsibility to us.

We have to fight with health issues and empty bank accounts. We have to ensure our families are provided for and that we have enough to survive. 

God will ensure we have enough. That is one of His basic promises. But, we will have to provide the excess. 

Take it from me, it is hard trying to do it all on your own. God's way is a much easier road. It may sometimes be difficult to understand, but it's easy to follow. God's yoke is easy and His burden is light. 

We are the ones who make life harder for ourselves. Harder than it has to be. We take our lives and our decisions into our own hands. And we are usually the ones to mess them up. 

I gave my life and decisions to God because when I tried to handle them myself, I made them worse. I brought unnecessary trouble and pain. But, God is compassionate, gracious, and all knowing. He knows what is best for us.

I gave it all to God. I submitted it to Him. He worked it out.

And I give it back to Him every time I find myself trying to take it on again. I repent every time I find myself in disobedience and out of the will of God. Wanting and attempting to have it my own way.

My way is long, hard, and treacherous. My way is full of mistakes and mishaps. My way is trouble. 

But, God's way is perfect. His plans for us are perfect. His plans for us are to prosper us and not to harm us. His plans for us are to give us a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). 

The bible tells us to seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give us everything we need (Matthew 6:33). But, this promise is conditional. We seek Him, He gives. We have no need to worry.

And when we are obedient to His will, He gives us all we need... and more.

Post #76(b) - Being Transparent with God

God sees all and He knows all. There's nothing we can hide from Him. Nothing we can stow away and keep secret. 

So, why don't we tell and give Him everything? Why do we hold on to our lives and all the things that keep us bound? Will it hurt us to let it go? 

Do you think there's something you are going to tell God that He doesn't already know? Do you think your secrets are going to take Him by surprise? What will you have to lose? 

Nothing. God knows all.

He knows, but He still wants us to be open and honest with Him. To be transparent.

He wants us to give Him our pains, our disgraces, our confusion. In fact, God will not attempt to correct our problems if we don't bring them to Him. He will not force Himself on us or make us turn to Him. 

But, He does offer us His help. He offers us comfort and rest when we bring our burdens to Him. He lightens our burdens and makes them easier to carry.

But, we've got to seek His help. We've got to humble ourselves and admit that we are sinners. We've got to give him our loads of sin and disobedience. We've got to give Him our skeletons and let Him heal them and forgive us for them. 

This requires honesty and transparency. God knows when you are not being honest. And He will remain silent until you are.

When we come to Him in honesty and humility, desiring change and to be more like Him, He will answer us. The bible says that if we ask for wisdom, God will generously give it to us without finding fault (James 1:5). He wants to forgive us, free us, and bless us. But, we have to go to Him and ask.

We have to petition Him with honesty and transparency, with frankness and thankfulness, knowing He is faithful to perform and will give us what we've asked. 

He says He will have compassion on us. He will forgive us, wipe out all our sins, and throw them into the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19). But, how can He do this if we are too proud and shameful to confess them?

Humble yourself. Be open and transparent with God. Give Him your sins and secrets. 

You don't need them anymore. 

Post #76(a) - D-I-S-C-I-P-L-I-N-E!!

Discipline was our mantra in bootcamp. With everything we did, from picking the lint out of the scrub brush to adjusting into our favorite sleeping position, we had to spell out the word discipline while we did it. This drilled discipline into our minds and made it a habit.

Discipline proved to be important throughout my time in the military and has proven to be as important in my life today. 

When I've found myself lacking in discipline, I also found myself in situations I didn't want to be in. When I lacked the discipline to pay my bills on time, I found myself scrambling to pay the bill so that nothing got disconnected. And I had to pay a hefty late fee.

When I lacked the discipline to eat right and exercise, I found myself gaining weight and unhealthy habits. I'm still struggling to lose those. 

Discipline can potentially help us in many areas. Discipline can keep us accountable and accomplished. But, we have to apply it.

Discipline takes self control. But, a lot of us fail to do what we need to do when we need to do it. This is called laziness and procrastination. We reject self control and let our excuses take over.

I've been guilty of this. I've struggled with it. Discipline has tried to escape me. Procrastination has tried to push me off track. 

But, I have to stay focused!! 

Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 that we must be as disciplined as an athlete. "All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So, I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing."

Paul tells us that we have to discipline our bodies like an athlete, "training it to do what it should." This is my goal. For I fear as Paul feared, that "otherwise... after preaching to others, I myself might be disqualified."

So, I wake up each morning, fighting for the discipline to get up and do as I should. I fight to maintain discipline and focus throughout the day. To continue to concentrate on and do the things that need to be done, marking them as accomplished. And, I fight every night not to condemn myself for the tasks that didn't get done. To put the work away and wind down so that I can get rest and recharge for the next day.

And I must have compassion for myself. Understanding that I am not perfect and I'm not a robot. I get tired, I forget, I hit road blocks, I fall short. 

This is life.... And I shouldn't beat myself up for it. 

But, I should strive for perfection. I should work to maintain discipline and bring my body and mind under subjection.

If God wakes me up in the morning, I must get up and work for Him. Realizing that I was gifted another day because I have purpose. I have a charge to keep and a God to glorify!

If God blesses me to live throughout the day, I must work. I must travail to complete the tasks given to me by God. Because when night comes, no man can work (John 9:4).

But, even Jesus had to rest. And I must rest, too. Putting down my pencil and pad and bidding God goodnight. 

But, I must look back over the work I've done and KNOW that I have made progress. I must know that I have accomplished the day's mission. I have taken another step towards purpose.

If I lack discipline and focus, if I get and remain distracted, I can effectively accomplish nothing. And I am of no use to God.

But, I AM highly disciplined. I am FOREVER focused on God and His commands. I am proving myself suitable and appropriate. 

I am disciplined to do what I have been called to do. 

No one can do it but me.

Post #75(a) - Suggestions, anyone?

I took on a big job when I challenged myself to write this blog for 365 days straight. I haven't exactly stayed on track with it. Though, I have tried my best.

Obstacles jumped in the way that made it difficult to post sometimes. Like when I got sick, or when I had internet issues. 

This is a different obstacle. 

It's difficult coming up with something to write about every day. Especially something that I think would interest you.

My goal is to talk about topics that can edify, uplift, and possibly even give you a different perspective. 

Too many of us have closed minds. And we cannot fully understand, trust, and follow

God if our minds are permanently closed. God is not traditional or safe. His thoughts are not our thoughts and His ways are not our ways. 

In able to understand God, we've got to put away our old way of thinking and pick up His way.

We've got to forget about what we've been taught, what society says, and trust that God's word is best. That His way of doing life trumps all others.

This is what I attempt to share with you. 

I want to possibly open someone's eyes, change someone's mind, possibly change someone's life...

The problem is, it's been more and more difficult to think up topics to write about. Probably because I haven't been in the right creative posture. I've been finding myself distracted and lacking focus lately. I'm working on changing this.

So, what I need are suggestions. 

I'm hoping that while I'm fighting with my creative lock down, you can give me some topics to write about. What would you like to hear or discuss? What would you like to know more about? What would enlighten you or entertain you?

The road to the pursuit of our goals is not always a straight and perfect one. We may hit some potholes and speed bumps. We may even run into some ditches. All that matters is that we keep on going. 

That's what I would like to do. I want to continue this challenge to its completion. But, I need your help. 

I'm sure my creative juices will be back up and running soon. Until then, tell me what you want to read about, what you want to hear, and I will try to oblige. 

I hope to hear from you!! 

Until then, click here to read some of the other posts in this blog. 

Post #74(b) - Quoting Possibilities

"Look beyond your adversities and never stop loving your life. Open the door of your mind to embrace positivity and then push forward with faith. Once there is life and the presence of God, there will always be endless possibilities. " - Edmond Mbiaka

"Every morning the sun rises with endless possibilities that give you endless opportunities to begin again and to create a brand new life. " -Debasish Mridha

"It's not only moving that creates new starting points. Sometimes all it takes is a subtle shift in perspective, an opening of the mind, an intentional pause and reset, or a new route to start to see new options and new possibilities." -Kristin Armstrong 

"The possibilities are numerous once we decide to act and not react." 

-George Bernard Shaw

"The only limits on the possibilities in your life tomorrow are the buts you use today.

It takes someone with a vision of the possibilities to attain new levels of experience. Someone with the courage to live his dreams." 

- Les Brown

"Hope is the magic carpet that transports us from the present moment into the realm of infinite possibilities."

- H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

"Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning."

- Gloria Steinem

"You've done it before and you can do it now. See the positive possibilities. Redirect the substantial energy of your frustration and turn it into positive, effective, unstoppable determination. 

Concern yourself more with accepting responsibility than with assigning blame. Let the possibilities inspire you more than the obstacles discourage you.

If you so choose, even the unexpected setbacks can bring new and positive possibilities. If you so choose, you can find value and fulfillment in every circumstance.

Take your mind off the problems for a moment, and focus on the positive possibilities. Consider how very much you are able to do."

- Ralph Marston

"We are not interested in the possibilities of defeat. They do not exist."

- Queen Victoria 

"Problems are the outward signs of unused inner possibilities." - Rollo May

"...if you have a goal that is very, very far out, and you approach it in little steps, you start to get there faster. Your mind opens up to the possibilities. " - Mae Jemison

"With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." - Matthew 19:26

Quotes courtesy of brainyquote.com, goodreads.com, and the Holy Bible

Post #74(a) - A New Year for Possibilities

I know this is a bit late, but I wanted to make sure I sent out some well wishes for 2020.

I want to remind you that it's possible. 

Whatever it is. 

Whatever the thing is that you are running away from or are too afraid to do... it's possible. 

No matter how big it seems or what obstacles you might feel are in the way... it's possible. 

You might feel like you don't have enough money or you're too old, or your kids are still young... it's still possible. 

It doesn't matter what family you come from or what your mother or father did or didn't do. It's possible. 

You might be penniless, jobless, homeless... it's still possible. 

You may have made mistakes, fell short, and sinned so badly that you think God will never forgive you. God wants you to know that He loves you and it's possible. 

No matter your circumstances, your background, or your current situation, with God all things are possible! And He has made it possible for you! For us! 

So, let's go into and through 2020 remembering that IT'S POSSIBLE. And because it's possible, nothing can stop us from pursuing our dreams, meeting our goals, and reaching a higher level this year!

We may not reach the very top, but we're on our way. And we will not quit because we know that it's possible. 

Post #73(b) - First Fix Yourself

Why do we try so hard to fix each other but refuse to fix ourselves?

We always point out other people's flaws, faults, and mistakes but we don't consider and take responsibility for our own.

Why is this?? 

Why do you see the speck in someone else's eye, but don't notice the log on your own eye? You can't take the splinter out of your brother's eye when you have a plank in your own. It doesn't work like that. In doing this, Jesus Himself calls you a hypocrite (Matthew 7:1-5).

The more you try to fix someone else's issues, the more you will be reminded of your own. And you will not be satisfied with, happy with, or understand anyone else until you fix yourself. Until you finally admit your own shortcomings and commit to working on YOU. 

As long as we focus on someone else's sins, flaws, and mistakes, we will be continually unhappy with ourselves. Continually comparing ourselves with others. 

Usually, the things that we point out in other people are the main issues we are struggling with ourselves. Pointing them out in others makes us feel better about ourselves and our own shortcomings. Makes us feel that we are not alone. Misery loves company!

The change we are looking for in each other, should first take place in ourselves. It is not our job to judge anyone and try to change them. It's impossible! 

Only God can do the changing!

The bible says that when a brother or sister is caught in a fault, we as children of God, we who are supposed to be spiritual, should restore them with meekness (Galatians 6:1).

We are not told to judge, talk about, criticize, put down, demean, gossip about, turn our backs on, push away, or condemn. We are told to love, encourage, support, and restore. 

When we can do this, we are displaying our level of faith and spiritual maturity. On the other hand, when we judge and negatively criticize others, we show our lack of faith and maturity. We show our contempt for God and for His word. 

So, we've got to stop judging and picking at the flaws and sins of others. We are all sinners and need God's grace. We are all imperfect and have fallen short of God's standards. 

None of us have the right or the room to judge anyone else. 

We should be concentrating on fixing ourselves first!

Post #73(a) - Take Time to Think

Thinking is a form of meditation that I have found to be incredibly helpful. Some of the most innovative people in the world have thought up their greatest ideas by taking out time to just sit and think. 

There's not much to it. Just sit in a quiet place with a pad and pen or the notes app open on your smart phone... and think.

Set a timer or alarm designating a certain amount of time and just let your mind go. 

You can start by asking yourself a question or putting a topic in mind that you want ideas or direction for. Like with meditation, if your mind begins to wander, gently being it back under your control. Be patient with your mind and understand that thinking different and random thoughts is its job! 

If you don't have anything in particular to think about in mind, just allow your mind to go on its own. Pay attention to the things you think. Write them down - all of them. You can weed out the gibberish later.

Taking the time to think, making it a deliberate activity, can help your thoughts be clearer and more profound. You can hone in on exactly what you are seeking answers or ideas for, rather than waiting for something random.

I schedule a think session for myself once a week. I set a timer with a soothing tone and start it just before I begin to think. I usually start my session by asking a question and going into thought expecting an amazing and innovative answer. 

I let my mind go and I write down EVERY profound thought I think. 

I have had some real 'a-ha' moments while thinking. I have thought up so many useful ideas. Some I have implemented. Others I still have to work on. 

Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, one of the largest companies in the US, says that he has spent approximately 80% of his career reading and thinking. And Microsoft's founder, Bill Gates, takes two weeks off a year just to think and reflect (Empact, 2016).

These businessmen, and many others, attest that taking time out to think can be beneficial in both business and in life. I haven't reached their status yet, but I can affirm that thinking has been very beneficial for me. And I intend to continue to think myself higher.

All I have to do now is put all of these amazing ideas to work!!

Resource: Empact. (2016). Why Successful People Spend 10 Hours a Week Just Thinking.