"I Can't Breathe!"

If you think we don't have a problem, keep reading.  If you are waiting for change, don't hold your breath.  Once again we have sat in the comforts of our homes and watched a black man die at the hands of police officers that didn't care. 

THE VIDEO

I watched the raw video assuming there was only one man on top of George Floyd, but there were three, and a fourth controlled the crowd.  I kept thinking at any moment the officer would let up on him and they would put him in the car.  It never happened.  I could hear the man's cries for help, even sounded like he called his mother, either way... his cries were ignored.  I really had a problem with the smug look on the officers face, he was too comfortable. To find that this began with an alleged forgery- is troubling.  This was not an active shooter, not a robbery in progress or a drug bust.  If it was true, it was a paper check.

I couldn't have been in the crowd that day.  See society has been trained to not intervene in police situations so they were limited in what they could do.  Being a problem solver, I tried to figure out what I could have done.  I am not good at watching something like that happen, and doing nothing.  Since my mother was a police officer, I have reported, confronted, written letters, fussed at,  and collected badge numbers from officers that were out of the norm that I learned from her. I support our officers because she was such a great one,  as were those she brought around our house.  But if I was there, I would have been arrested or something.  I had to google whether or not I could make a citizens arrest on a police officer.  Finding that I could, I devised a complete plan just in case...  That's kind of weird seeing as we all have other things to be doing in life other than trying to police the police.  But someone has got to do it.

CHANGE FROM WITHIN 

Just to be honest, I realize that many people will not change.  If you were raised racist, prejudice or angry, you will not change just because one facet of society says you need to.  We don't expect government to change the hearts of people, only God can do that.  But we do expect government for the people, by the people, to care about ALL the people.  We expect that simple humane guidelines should be followed for any and everyone, and if we find that personal thoughts or upbringing hinders you from doing that, you are in the wrong profession.   

This incident as well as all others,  was unacceptable on so many levels.  Although firing is better than paid leave, even conviction, and sentencing is not going to be enough.   Many people have a voice in high places, but because it is unlikely that your family will be a victim of this, you stay silent.  We don't expect for you to become an full time activist and stay there, this is not what everyone is called to do, but we are responsible for the laws of this land and our voice counts.  If we can start a #metoo movement and have men arrested and put in jail over an alleged rape or sexual assault that happened years ago, CERTAINLY we can have a police officer or anyone arrested and put in jail for killing someone or using unnecessary force on a HUMAN BEING when we see the video today.  That should be followed by changes in laws and guidelines to stop it from happening again,   Justice is not justice if it does not happen, and it is not really just if it only happens once.

TRUE JUSTICE IS NOT AN ISOLATED INCIDENT

When asked what we want to happen, often we say 'Justice'.  But what exactly is that?  Someone being charged and sent to prison?  Death penalty? Life sentence?   Truthfully I have issues with only wanting justice.  See justice may look a bit like an arrest,  conviction, a suitable sentence, but it also looks like anyone who knows they have a volatile officer on the job also being held responsible for not dealing with them before something like this happens. It means having a process that makes everyone accountable for the actions of their partner.  It looks like changing how you train people, requiring more education to be a police officer.  If you put more into education, we can put less into loss.  Justice is not justice if it only works for one family, that means we have not learned anything that flows to the next recruit.  Actions towards justice should bring fear to those who would want to do the same.  Dirty cops, unnecessary roughness, and hate is only entertaining in movies.  In real life, real lives are lost.

SCARED STRAIGHT 

I remember years ago, in the 1980's, my mother let us watch the television show "Scared Straight".  We watched at-risk kids who visited local prisons to learn what could happen if they didn't change their ways.  It worked for some, didn't for others, but the attempt was given to change their paths.   I think today we don't have anything that scares officers or racist people from doing something that should land them in prison, because  we find it doesn't really land them in prison.  

If  you are someone who still thinks there is no problem, or if you are a person who feels privileged,  and prison doesn't scare you, be scared of this...  People nowadays are not the people of old who were scared of other races.  My concern is that this generation of "minorities" (who are no longer a minority), will not put up with injustices much longer.  When people thought injustice was just in their minds of the people complaining, and there was no proof, it seemed like reasonable doubt.   But this generation records EVERYTHING, there is no doubt anymore, and we can all see it is not just in "their minds".  

I can end with a solution that is found in God, but many people are not going to go there with me. Many may not believe in God and others may be tired of hearing it.  (though it is true)   If you are the person who does not believe in God, believe in this...  If we don't make internal, swift, changes, if we don't take inventory of  our processes and our unspoken "Blue Bonds", we are going to see more than riots in the streets of the city where an injustice happened.  Fear changes quickly to anger, and anger  with no resolve, grows.  

We can't hold our breath waiting to see if someone will do something when our men "can't breathe".  I pray we fix this internal problem in our government, in our police departments and society. None of us will be able to breathe freely until we do.  If we don't fix this  you may as well exhale and pray for us all.

"Treating Itchy Ears"

Due to this pandemic, its been a few months since I've gotten my nails done.  Many of us are learning to handle things in the raw... no extra hair care, no eyebrow work, no gym, and no nails.  Though it may seem challenging, I am finding that I may never go back.  See the problem with acrylic nails is that they don't scratch well. They look good, but because of the rounded edges and the nice finish, they don't really get to the heart of an itch.  So when you try to scratch in that hard to reach place in the middle of your  back, or between a braid on the top of your head,  scratching with fake nails does not satisfy. 

ITCHY EARS -NATURAL

I often look for natural things when seeking spiritual solutions.  God has used every day things in life to help us understand spiritual truths better.  So let's begin in the natural.  Some itchy ears are a condition caused by a nervous habit, a fungal infection or the beginning of an infection. The natural thing to do when something itches is to, well... scratch it. The problem with just scratching is depending on the cause, you literally only 'scratch the surface'. If there is an underlying problem, you will continue to itch until you deal with it.  Many of us are okay with the temporary relief from an irritating condition, but truth is, scratching the itch from an underlying problem is much like scratching with acrylic nails.  It doesn't work.

 ITCHY EARS- SPIRITUAL 

The bible speaks to us in 2 Timothy 4:3 and it says: 

"For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear."

One of the problems we have today is too many people with platforms that only scratch the surface of  life issues and they only scratch to appease the itch. If you have a true ministry given by God to help people, you have to do more than minister to itching ears.   See itching ears don't really want a solution, they just want to feel better about what is irritating them.  God has a solution for their itch, but they don't want it because it requires more than they are willing to do.  Sometimes it is because the cause of the 'itch' is  too fun to let go of.  Some would rather ignore the itch than to correct the area in life that it is coming from.  Yes, you could have had a brush with poison ivy, or a touch of something that was irritating, but itching ears can also come from a life style choice or a deeper condition that can become worse when ignored.  

If we want to use our voices to help people, the last thing we need to do, is to avoid the the truth, and try to  find a way around it.  Before we can be effective at treating the itch, we have to admit the cause.  That includes asking hard questions about life.  "Where have you been, what have you been doing, and what have you gotten yourself into? " People with itchy ears often want to avoid anything that looks like blame.

TREATING ITCHING EARS

"If people have persistently itchy ears, they should see a doctor to find out the underlying cause. People may be able to relieve itchiness by using a few drops oil."

To treat a outward itch, you may require a good set of nails, a good lotion or cream is a good balm for  itchy skin.  When the issue  is deeper you may require an antibiotic.  With spiritually itchy ears, it will require the oil of the word of God.  

If you or someone you know suffers from spiritually itch ears, it may be due to an underlying issue of disobedience or pride.  Sin seeks to be satisfied without being confronted.  If we have itchy ears, it is because we want what is right in our own eyes, and we want someone somewhere to validate us by simply scratching it without fixing it, or causing us to admit wrong.  This is seen by life choices we make that the bible says is wrong.  We try to get someone to tell us that we don't need to feel condemned, or  guilty about our sin, so we don't change, we just allow them to scratch itchy ears with acrylic nails.  It may feel better, but the itch will come back until we deal with the underlying problem.  

The bible talks about oil, or the anointing that destroys yokes.  The anointing of God works as an antibiotic to destroy what is trying to destroy us.  Instead of allowing the itch to continue, deal with it with the word of God.  Whatever you underlying problem is, God holds the solution. If we don't deal with it at the root, it will later resurface.

As spiritual people who are called by God, we can't afford to value our platforms more than we do His word.  We owe it to the people we serve, to care enough to call wrong, wrong, to love them and give them the oil of the word of God to help them to heal from past hurts, and current bondage. If you are trying to help someone with itchy ears, understand that just scratching their itch will not help them. God can handle all itchy ears, but His word works best in the raw... He does not need our smooth edges to try to stop the itch.  Trust His word to work in us, and in those who choose to please Him. 

"NO REGRETS! Okay, maybe a few..."

We don't like failure.  We don't want to look like failure, feel like failure, or even give a hint of failure.  Truthfully there is nothing wrong with wanting to be on the winning side, we all want to be.  But over the years,there are things we have done, things we have said, and things that we didn't do, or say, that can feel like a failure.  Those things often turn into regrets.  

A regret is defined as -a feeling of sadness, repentance or disappointment, over something that happened, was done, or a missed opportunity.' 

Regrets often manifest because of our choices, not the choices of others. We can't control what others do, but when we are part of the decision, or the action...or if we walk past an opportunity,  it can cause regrets.   

LIVING IN REGRETS

Over the years we have been told to not live in regret.   We talk about past things in a way that allows us to almost ignore them. See. regrets are mood killers.  INSTANT mood killers.  As positive people we like to learn from our mistakes instead of admitting them.  But it's almost impossible to learn and not admit at the same time.   We are quick to say what good came out of something negative,  instead of acknowledging the bad we got stuck with because of it.  We have been taught that the glass is half full is better than admitting that it is also half empty at the same time.    

I am an optimist.  I look for good in people, and in myself, as well as circumstances, but even though I too refuse to live in regret, I do have many.  There are times I could have payed more attention to,  when raising our kids, information and I could have attained early about finances and investments. Money I shouldn't have spent, and credit cards I should have cut up.  Yes, there are always relationships issues I could have avoided, circumstances I should have walked around, and words that should never have come out of my mouth!  All could be regrets.  So when I say I don't have any regrets, what does that mean?

THE POWER OF YOUR REGRETS

But the power of regrets is often found in admitting them, while not being governed by them.  Yes, who you are today came through the good and bad that happened in your life, we learn from both.   I can say I have no regrets when it comes to the ones I have already allowed myself to evaluate.  The ones I have learned from.  Some regrets however are out of my hand.  What was done is done, and when I see results of it in people I was in contact with, I remember to pray.  I can't go back and redo what was done, but I can  there to help them not have to have and live with the same regret I had.  It is almost like paying it forward. 

The apostle Paul said it this way: 

"Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead.  So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call through Christ Jesus to the life above.  " Phil 3:13

Today is here, it is yours and you are well equipped to handle it.  If you let yesterday's regrets stop you today, you will probably live to regret it.  My encouragement to you is to admit whatever it is that you may feel regret about, pull the lessons, and the actions needed to help you move forward.  Then PRESS past anything that tries to keep you holding onto yesterday and conquer your today!

Mother's Day "Why I Wish You Were Here, But Glad You Are Not!"

On a normal week leading to Mother's Day, many of us would be running to stores trying to find the perfect gift.  We would no doubt be looking for flowers, her favorite perfume, planning a dinner, or buying a plane ticket for a surprise visit.  So much that we would normally do we are currently unable to do because of this pandemic.  I can't imagine how it feels today trying to figure out how to honor a mom that you genuinely love, amid all the hindrances that we are facing.  However, many of us still wouldn't be able to imagine it, because our mothers are no longer here. 

MISSING MOM

Even though I really miss my mom there are so many things that I'm glad she missed.   Since my mother was very patriotic, I'm glad she missed the turmoil in politics that we've seen over the past few years.  I'm glad that she missed the embarrassment and breakdown of respect from other nations that we are facing.  My mom was also a deputy sheriff  in El Paso, Texas, so I'm glad she's missed the escalation in violence from officers and towards officers in our nation.  She missed the Walmart shooting that took place literally blocks from our house in  El Paso, the very one that they shopped at most Saturday mornings.  And I am really glad she's missed the Corona virus. 
My mom was the type of woman who was selfless.  As a single parent of five, she would go and do so much to help people, and would put herself out there to ensure her friends were well.  She purchased extra gifts just in case someone stopped by and it fit their need.  If someone needed a place to stay she got to work.  She helped decorate rooms for veterans and organized fundraisers for them as well.  I couldn't  imagine my mom being alive today, practicing social distancing while trying to ensure all her kids, grands and great grands were well. As much as I miss her, I am so glad she missed this. 

LIFE LESSONS 

I fully understand that our parents who have passed away actually survived and dealt with so much more than we know about in their lives.  I'm not glad she missed this time because I think she was weak or unable to handle it.  I actually think she would be a strong and involved as ever.  Throughout her life, she handled  every issue that she faced.  Yeah, sometimes she complained, but she made it through them all- still loving people and still working to ensure her family and others were well.  I had  a front seat view for many years before she passed.  From every struggle, every loss, every challenge, she stayed in the game until the game was over.  There is nothing like life lessons especially when they come from a mother you love.

THE GIFT

Even though she isn't here right now, I have an example of someone outliving life's problems.  Corona is here today, and I am glad that she is not here to deal with it, but I know what she would do it she was.   First, she would cry for a bit, then gather herself and deal with it.  She would  adjust where she needed to adjust, check on all of us to be sure we were following guidelines. She would check on her friends and any neighbors still living. She would mail us food, (we probably wouldn't need because she taught us how to use deep freezers), and she would send us money 'just in case'. The biggest thing she would do would be to come out of it without the smell of it.  She would come out happy, whole and making sure others did the same.   So this week, I don't have a gift to buy for her, but I still have the gifts that she left us... A lesson in living and knowing that this too shall pass.  

So the gift I have, I give to you... On behalf of my mother, I pray that you will remember God in the  midst of this pandemic.  I pray that you will watch out for each other and know that someone has your back.  I pray that you will remember that others have survived worst and we are going to be okay.  We are in this together and we will come out not smelling like it!  

Happy Mothers Day Mommy!  I kinda wish you were here, but I'm really glad you are not.  Enjoy your rest, it's our turn to learn... With the help of God, we got this!   

"Give God What He Gave You!"

Before I got on social media I had a talk with God about what my purpose in it was. I knew that it was not to be grand or run after followers.   I'm was not on here to buy followers, or to like and attend every event.  I am not here to talk bad about churches, or government. (even if it is trending)  I'm not on here to shame people, to ridicule them, or to make them feel like they're not pleasing God.  I am also not here to figure out every algorithm, and plot to be successful in social media, I'm trying to be successful in life!   Deciphering all the secrets of social media is a job I didn't apply for, and a waste of my time and talent. 

My purpose is really to encourage people to live for God, to follow Him in their every day life,  to seek wisdom daily in His word, to treat others right, work towards healthy relationships, honor and trust God with their finances, and to enjoy this life while preparing for the next one.  My job is to seek God about what I post, and trust that He will let the person or people see it that needs to.  

Recently I started to question my presence on social media because I noticed that I am not really 'out there' like so many are.  I have a simple platform that comes from who I am, not who others think I am or want me to be.   The things people are doing seems fun and cutting edge, but I am not that person.  Without realizing it, I had begun questioning my purpose and wondering if I needed to do more.  I'm grateful to God that He reminded me that I'm doing what I am called to do, and that's all that He requires of me. 

OUR TALENTS

In Matthew 25:14 the bible gives the parable of talents.  I know there are so many theological ways we can go with this, but I am keeping it to the simple interpretation God gave me the other day while I was reading it.  I love that God's word is living, powerful, and pertinent.  

In the story a man gave talents to three people.  To one he gave five talents, to another he gave two, and to the last person he gave one talent.  Then it says  "each one according to his ability."

When the man returned, the person that had five talents, gave him back five more.  The person with two talents gave  back two more, and the person with one talent only brought what he had been given before.  The men who came back with more were rewarded,  but the one who hid his talent was cast out. 

OUR ABILITY

Each of us have been given talents 'according to our ability'.  We are not required to work outside what we have been given, but we are required to do something with what we have been given.  God simply wants us to give Him what He gave us. The man with five gave back five, the one with two gave back two....

After my talk with God, I sat and wrote down all the talents that I have.  I came up with ten things that I absolutely know that I do well.  Most I am doing now and continue to do, one is pending and another one was on hold because fear gripped me! (which led to my video series on overcoming fear)  Allowing fear or insecurity to grip us is like having the one talent and deciding not to use it because God can get the glory without our input.  It is time to recognize that every talent, every gift given, is to be used!  

I encourage you to make a list of what you do well and first thank God that He has made you so awesome!  Then see how you are using your gifts for God's glory and to help people.  Every talent is based on YOUR ABILITY, the ability that God has already given to you.  You are not called to compete with anyone else. Your gift may not be for social media, some gifts are to be used at home, with family, one on one, or even on the job, but every gift given, should be used! You don't have to join a group, a club, you don't have to buy followers or be a social media guru.  Just trust that God equipped you for a reason and for this time.  Pray, keep His word in mind, then you just have to give back to God, what He has given you... God will handle the rest!

"Facing the New With Your Normal!"

Normal is defined as 'the usual, typical or an expected standard.' 

When we hear people talk about a "New Normal" they are basically referring to the fact that something around us has changed, and that change may have a lasting or permanent affect.  Those changes can be financial, socially or even in physical areas. When that happens, we need to be able to adjust if we want to survive.  Covid19 has made that kind of an impact.  Social distancing, financial strains and the fear of sickness or death has made many look for a new normal.  

NEW TO  YOUR NORMAL

Life holds drama.  We have become accustomed to seeing what happens in life, and we adjust ourselves to fit it.  If things happen that are out of our control, most try to make practical changes that can help us to cope; if we don't we may find that we are always victims to circumstances.  As I was thinking and considering this New Normal, it felt a little backwards to me as a believer.  Why should we have to adjust to everything that happens?  Yes, I understand that things change, and sometimes it throws us.  Even as believers if we want to make it, we will have to do something, but what if we built ourselves up to the point that things had to adjust to us?  Sounds far fetched?  Keep reading...

YOUR NORMAL TO THE NEW 

What if instead of adjusting to everything new, we learn how to handle the NEW with our NORMAL?   What that looks like is, in every situation that we find ourselves in, we learn how to bring our normal to it.  The only way that is beneficial to us, is that our normal is always able to handle the new in a positive way.   If our normal is knowing that God is with us through any circumstance, if our normal is  being able to see the good in people, and trust God's plan even when we don't see the good, if our normal is to live content in every state, knowing that our security is not in the things that are seen, but in the things that are not seen.  If our normal is the ability to pray,  and seek what benefits everybody involved without taking things personally...  If we truly know that our life is in God's hand and we don't have to fear death, but don't have to tempt it either, if this is the mindset of our NORMAL we can deal with  every NEW. 

NEW NORMAL

To embrace this NORMAL requires a level of maturity that we actually have to grow into.  It is not easy dealing with relationship hurts and not falling into the "norm" to cope.  It is hard to have financial fears and not try to find short cuts to overcome them.  It is not easy to be hurt by people you trust, and still trust folks!  Just because it is not easy does not make it impossible.  We may not all be there right now, but we should seek to grow to the point that God's word and what He says about our responses to life is our NORMAL.

   

I encourage you to have a set standard ahead of time that tells you how you will deal with situations and how you deal with people.  That standard is given in God's word, we should study it for ourselves and develop guidelines instead of waiting for someone to preach it before we decide to do it. 

If you feel fearful, or anxious when things don't pan out the way you thought...find your NORMAL spot.  Find the peace that God promises, and find the 'God triggers' you need that will remind you that He's got you! God is still in control, He still has a plan for you, and you are not forgotten in the midst of all of this.  I pray that during this time, your NORMAL- 'your usual, typical and expected standard'  response will be one that is full of faith, one that God enforces, and one you will use to rise and conquer all the NEW things in your life! 

"Using God's Name In Vain!"

We've heard the phrase before about using God's name in vain. Growing up we automatically assumed that using His name in vain was connected to cussing or using bad language. Basically that is true, whenever we speak evil of people, or speak ill over them, that can be considered cursing them; especially since we have God given power in our tongues to bless.  Somehow we thought if we didn't use the name of 'Jesus', or say 'God', then we were okay.  But truthfully every day we can hear someone who is NOT cussing, use God's name in vain.  

Vain- means producing no results or useless...

Taking a name in vain- means using someone's name in a way that shows lack of respect...

Based on this definition,  perhaps taking God's name in vain is not just cussing.  If we use His name in a way that is not profitable or does not produce, we have used His name in vain.   Taking his name in vain could be anything from the prayers that we pray- that are against His word, to the  things that we say that God is doing that has nothing to do with Him.  How many times have you heard someone say "God told me to..."  and you and everyone knows that God was not in it?  Anytime we use the Name of Jesus for our own reasons, to benefit us without His written permission, that is a form of  writing a check, it results in "spiritual forgery". Those prayers are left marked as 'insufficient."  

SUFFICIENT OR INSUFFICIENT PRAYERS 

If we really want to get the benefits of His name, we have to know the benefits of His word.   The Bible says that God has  exalted His word above His name, which means that His name is only as good as His word.  We see this in business every day.  

If someone tells you that they will be there and contribute to a project, and they never do... after awhile, when you hear their name, you roll your eyes.  You don't wait on them, and you don't count on them after understanding that they don't keep their word.  Their word has given their name a reputation that says "Unreliable".  In the same way, God has shown us that He means what He says.  What He has written is what He will do, so when you use His name towards what He has said, in the context that He meant it...  scripture says "He hastens to perform His word".  Sufficient funds.   

But when we apply His name to what we want and we have no word to back it, that is an insufficient prayer. It produces no results, and is useless.  To continue to pray insufficient prayers in the name of Jesus is disrespectful to His name. God is only obligated to what He said in His word that He would do.   After years of "name it and claim it",  "believe it and receive it", and "Blab it and Grab it!"  We need to realize God is not moved by any of that.  As Believers, we have disrespected His name by showing the world prayers prayed in His name,  that never get answered....

Christians, we may still get upset when we hear cussing, or when we hear God's name being taken in vain in a movie, but instead of trying to get the speck out of someone else's eye, see that there is a HUGE plank in our own. Every prayer prayed in fear, God is not obligated to answer.  Any pray prayed for revenge on others, God is not obligated to answer.  When we ask Him to do anything outside His word, we are using His name in vain.  Be encouraged to read the word of God, ask Him for understanding and balance so when we encounter an opportunity to  use His name, we do it with power, and according to His word.  That is when we will see the POWER OF HIS NAME!

“What Is Easter To You?”

What is Easter to you?

Is it coloring Easter eggs bright orange, yellow and blue?

Is it Easter egg hunts or a bunny or two?

Is it going to church that one time every year?

It is buying nice clothes for the ones you love dear?

Is it hats, is it ties, is it flowers and bows?

Is the meaning forgotten, does anyone know?

Has the blood been forgotten have the scars been erased?

Now stories of Easter bunnies, my Lords been disgraced

As my mind goes way back to that day long ago

The memory of Easter, the real story I know

As my Lord was convicted and unjustly tried,

For your soul and my soul He willingly died.

But thank God today that my soul He has cleansed,

He has loved me, and kept me and forgiven my sins.

I thank Him, I love Him for the blood he has shed,

For without my Jesus, my soul would be dead.

On the third day He rose with the keys in His hand,

With the victory completely, my Lord is so grand!

Since He has the keys to death, hell and the grave

Now we who He died for can surely be saved

To me Easters the victory, the joy and the love,

To me it’s the Gift that God sent from above.

To me it’s the blood on the cross that He shed,

To me it’s the raising of Christ from the dead.

To me it’s the knowledge of God’s love for me,

To me its just knowing He set my soul free.

If you still think Easter is eggs and fine clothes,

You need to be talking to someone who knows.

So lets send our minds to that day long ago,

The memory of Easter, the real story we know.

He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,

Luke 24:6

The Essential Church

In the midst of this pandemic it's interesting that certain words just stand out, words we haven't heard before in this context.  Words like social distancing, or essential businesses.  Here in America, we are kind of spoiled, and we basically feel everything we need or want is ... well essential. I have heard so many talk about their hair, nails, eyebrows, etc..   As a result of the stay at home order many businesses were hoping to make that list.  Included in those holding out hope was the church.

As a church we seem to have gotten a little offended because we weren't considered one of the  essential businesses, especially since liquor stores were.   It seems that during difficult times, the last thing we need is a bunch of drunk folks stuck in their homes with their families,  although some feel it might help them.  But I digress.....  Whether we think the church should be open or not, is not the question.  The real questions are...   

 WHAT is the church? or WHERE is the church? 

WHAT?

In short, the church is a building not made by hands, so this question is really not WHAT?  But WHO?   Church is a body of believers that make up the body of Christ.  When Jesus talks about coming back for the 'church', He is not lifting buildings.  He's coming for me and you.

WHERE?

If you are part of the body of Christ, the church is wherever you are.  Whether you are in a building where we gather to worship, you are the church.  Whether in  grocery store, a park, driving on the freeway, or in your child's school checking on them, you are the church. Wherever you are, the church is. 

THE ESSENTIAL CHURCH

If we are the church, then no one has the power to close us. They can inhibit our gathering together, but they can't stop our reach or purpose. That is a lesson we understand from countries where believers are prohibited from gathering, yet they are the church.   Today the church is just as  open as you are, or plan to be.  Our reach is to those who live in our neighborhoods, those we friend online, and those we do business with.  So instead of tripping because the building is closed, find out what your assignment is during this time. God is not surprised by any of this, though we are.  If we are so busy complaining about everything that is going on, we will miss it.  Do what you need to do to be safe and to care for your family, but don't forget that we are NOT our own.  We are part of a much bigger picture that requires all of us doing our part.

So check yourself to see if your door is open, see if you're full of love,  if you have a mind to pray for  the hurting, to comfort those who have lossed so much already.   People are open to hearing a message of hope, be the church and give it to them. 

Yes the church is essential, but if we  refuse to do our part to help people, and encourage them with our new wine, they may as well head for the liquor store. 

"I Am No Longer Just a Believer!"

After 40 years of serving God, I recently discovered that I am no longer just a believer;  I have made a shift.   This may sound shocking to many of you, as I still go to church, I still love God, and I'm still serving Him.  But something happened to me recently while I was driving and talking to God.  The day before this revelation, I did my morning acknowledgment of Him, reminding myself that He would direct my path when I did, then I continued in my daily routine.  Later that evening on my way to church, I was reflecting on the days outcomes. I was very aware of how He'd answered my prayer. While thanking Him I said "Lord I really believe that you answered my prayer!" but I stopped mid-sentence and said, " NO... I don't BELIEVE you answered my prayer, I KNOW You did!"

BELIEVING AND KNOWING 

Something happened to me over the years to where I made a transition from being just a believer to being a know-er. The Bible says "That we may know Him and the power of  His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death."   There will always be times in our life where we are believing God for something.  We have to  have times that we are trusting Him, because the just shall live by faith.  Somethings we won't see yet, we won't know, but there should come a time in our lives as a Christian or a  Believers, that we have a vast amount of things that we KNOW about God that no longer requires believing.  When you believe it is different from knowing.  Believing is when you choose to accept something as true; or you confidently put your trust in something or someone.  Knowing can be a state of being aware and informed, or doing something with full awareness of it so you are deliberate in your response.    If I KNOW a chair can hold me up, I am not at all timid about sitting in it.  If I believe it will hold me, I may find myself looking for weak spots just in case.   Do you only BELIEVE God or have your learned to KNOW Him?

KNOW IT!

Life can bring circumstances that make you examine God like a chair you want to trust, but you have to examine more.  If you have been living for God, and He has shown Himself strong to you, you should KNOW that He is faithful.   When you know God, this world and circumstances don't shake you. It's kind of like the Hebrew boys in the bible... while faced with a fiery furnace they said 

"We know that God is able to deliver us from this fiery furnace, and He will deliver us out of your hand O King, but even if He does not, Let it be known that we will not serve your gods, or worship the golden idol you made."  Daniel 3:16-18

Where are you today?  Are you only in belief stage where things come to challenge your heart and thoughts towards God?  Are you still moved by people and all the religions and thoughts that say your Christian faith is not complete?  Are you challenged to think differently because someone else sounds smart in their criticism of your beliefs?  Or are you at a place where it really does not matter what people say, what circumstances arise, what challenges you face, do you KNOW that God is God and what He says is truth?   I pray that we can all grow in our faith in a God that we know.  That we can swear to our own hurt and not change our faith in Him because the times have changed.  

I will say loud and clear, that I am no longer JUST a believer!  I know God is good, I know He hears my prayers, I know He causes all things to work for my good and His glory.  I know that when this earthly body dies, my spirit will go to where it came from, and God will have the last words about my life.  I know I love Him and will serve Him 'even though'.  Yes, I plan to hear Him say "Well Done.", I live to see His face. 

That is what I KNOW...

"As You Go.."

 

The Bible tells a popularly preached story about 10 lepers that approached Jesus at a distance, seeking to be healed.  Typically when we hear the story we think about the fact that  in their encounter with Jesus, He told them to go and show themselves to the priest.  Scripture says they obeyed and "as they went" they were healed of their leprosy.  We often focus on the next part that says that nine of them left rejoicing and continued to follow the instructions, but only one of them came back to tell Jesus thank you.  This is a great message to us to always consider God in the midst of His blessings, always give Him glory when He does what He says,  and always, always say "Thank You".   I want in this blog to pull another lesson. 

WHERE ARE THE OTHER NINE?

When talking to Jesus, the leper who came back was asked "Where are the other nine?"  We can't take away from the fact that giving God glory is important, but the other lesson happens much earlier than that one; it happens when Jesus said "Go, show yourselves to the priest".  Scripture tells us that  "As they went, they were cleansed." 

QUESTION: "What things has God told you to do that you are waiting for sign before you do it?"  There are things God has said that connects to our purpose, to a whole relationship,  it connects to our children being well, our mental or financial health and more... but we are sitting and waiting to see evidence that it is so before we go.  

I understand that it is normal to want to see stuff before we "go",  that way we're not embarrassed by all the people who see us going- but don't see the end results.   Kind of like Noah building an ark.  "Why are you building an ark Noah?" ...  "Because God said to."  ... "We don't see any rain though!  By the way... what is rain again?"  When it comes to the purpose that  God has for your life and the things He tells you to do, don't sit and wait until everything is lined up and perfect before you "GO".  The Bible says that "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen."  We are not moved by what we see, we are moved by what God says.

KEEP GOING!

I want to encourage you today, if you you are going, keep going!  Keep obeying God and trusting that what He has promised, is is able and going to perform.  If you are one who has been reluctant to go because things don't look conducive to the promise... If you want to see what God has said happen, you gotta "GO!"  I encourage you not to wait for something to happen that proves you're going to see progress, that you will get that promotion, healing, or deliverance in your family; some things you'll see "as you go". 

  

This year his already started off pretty rocky for many of us.  Aside from world wide health scares, there have been family losses, property loss and more already!  Things around us can discourage us and excitement about a new year can wear off quickly, but don't let it!  Keep moving forward, keep the faith and keep going.  God is still faithful and He will perform the promise He made to you.  Just remember, when He does... don't forget to come back, say "Thank You",   and give Him praise!

"The Gift or the Giver"

The post showed a son who purchased a truck for his  father as a surprise.  The son managed to get his dad to follow him outside and even got him to agree to be blindfolded.  We had the advantage of seeing the truck in distance as they walked up to it.   The whole time the father was talking suspiciously, but was still trusting his son's guidance.   As they approached the truck, the son took the blindfolds off of his father...

THE GIFT

Now, sometimes we see people get a surprise gift and they leave everybody to run to see exactly what the gift is.  Excitement has them touching and testing the gift.  If it is a vehicle, they may get inside and see how they look in the mirrors, feel the seats and look for keys so they can take a test drive. All of these things can be normal unless you have another focus, much like this father did. 

When the blindfold was removed, the dad stood trying to take in what he was looking at.  His confusion soon turned to disbelief, which turned to excitement.  Without hesitation, he grabbed hold of his son and hugged him.   The majority of the scene showed the father jumping into his son's arms, and holding onto him.  He  continued to  hug him and begin to cry.  He paid very little attention to the gift because he was in the arms of the giver.

THE GIFT OR THE GIVER

How do you respond when God answers your prayers?  When there is a need in your life and God answers it, what do you do?   You finally close on that house, do you stay there are make your way to His house?  That car that you have been needing that you get, does it show up at His house only on occasion or often?  When healing comes, do we forget to go back to God like the 9 lepers, or do we take time to tell Him thank you for real?   We have been so blessed, God has been so faithful, that we should really be jumping into His arms.. 

Know that any gift we get in this life will never compare to the Giver.  Even when things  are challenging and life seems difficult, having the Giver of all gifts, is the greatest gift ever.   Next time God answers your prayers, or gives you what you need, don't run off with the gift... run to The Giver!

"One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked Him--and he was a Samaritan. "

Luke 17:15-16

"When Freedom Doesn't Ring Right"

Years ago my daughter and I were watching the Olympics, and a discussion ensued about the various host countries.  We talked about how beautiful the presentations were, the color, the history and how the countries celebrated their culture.  It was obvious in their presentation what they stood for, or believed in.  Then the topic turned to the United States of America.  We celebrate with just as much cutting edge, color, lights, music, flair and it is often evident that Freedom Rings!  It seems that though we are considered a Christian nation, we only have our flag to uphold or represent what we believe in. FREEDOM. I come from a very patriotic family, we love America and respect this country.  We have family that have served, supported our veterans, served in government, and law enforcement as well.  Many people have died for the freedom that we stand for; but in the midst of  all this freedom ringing .. something doesn't ring right. 

WHEN IN ROME ...

It's been said, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do."  I recently came back for the UAE, a place that I have had the privilege to visit a few times over the years.  Aside form the beautiful architecture, good food and  interesting sights, I  always leave with an appreciation for this culture that I have nothing to do with. See although I am Christian and the native religion in the UAE is Muslim, I appreciate the fact that they hold to what they believe in.  It is evident when you google travel to that region, they will give you the ins and outs of their culture.  You may not agree with them, but you gotta respect them.  If you walk in a mosque, as a woman, you WILL cover your head.  There are places you cannot go with shorts on, though it is considered open to the public.  During their holiday, NO ONE eats, or drinks outdoors until a set time.  They have prayer time that is evident anywhere you go, they even have special places where you can go pray if you are out and about during the day.   If you are looking from the outside, you may think that is too much, or that they have no right to impose their beliefs on anyone else.  That is what people who are used to 'freedom' may think, but truthfully, it is their land, their religion, and it's your choice to go there or not. They will not make you believe what they believe, but you will not be allowed to disrespect what they believe.  Therein lies the great difference... "When in America..."

FREE TO BE CHRISTIAN?

America is known to be a Christian nation, but you don't really see it much because the thing we hold dear is our  "Freedom".  See we almost can't have a standard if Freedom is the standard.  That means whenever someone comes here, they are FREE to do their own thing.  They are free to practice religion how they want, free to speak how they want, free to have an opinion that does not make any kind of sense, and establish things based on that opinion.  Free to speak, smoke, drink, sleep with anyone, post crude thoughts, sue,  etc...

We are the only religion in America that is supposed to be a foundation of America, but we get flack for trying to uphold it.  Other religions can say something is against their religion, and we acknowledge their right and freedom to not do it, and adjust.  But in the same vein, if we use the name of Jesus in a prayer, or a valedictorian speech, we may be asked to change it, because it is offensive to others.  Freedom is not ringing true for us as Christians.   If we are going to stand, we may really have to stand alone, but still we stand.  The world and this system that celebrates Freedom, is not celebrating you as a Christian.   I am often told that I need to  let go of old thoughts and religious boundaries...  even when my boundaries are relationship driven, not religious.  People are intimidated by standards that they don't want to keep, or if they feel you think you are better than them.  Often people intimidated by your standard will call you a hypocrite if you miss it, and call you self righteous if you try to keep.   Don't be moved by people, remember we serve God.  He is the standard maker, He is the one we are trying to please not people.  If your living for God convicts them, that is between them and Him.  Don't be a Christian willing to dishonor God just to make others not feel convicted by your convictions.  True Freedom is not granted by the guidelines of a nation or by our own thoughts.  True freedom is choosing to live under the banner established by the only One who can really make you free.  In the end, His banner, His freedom, will ring true.

LIVE HIS STANDARD

Being a Christian today, is going to require  holding a standard set by God, and disciplining yourself to want to keep it.  God will help us, but if we are not even considering it, we won't try. You may be called old fashioned, judgmental, self righteous and more, just because you have a desire to live a life pleasing to God.  Don't wait for this world to embrace your Christian lifestyle, it won't.  In fact, the pressure makes it so much easier to go the opposite direction.  If you like many of us, have had hiccups in your walk, don't be discouraged.  This is not to condemn anyone, just repent, get up and keep walking with God.  Just understand that the path will not always be easy, but with God, it is doable!

"Life Out of Tune"

Success is great, but success is also hard earned.  That is true for those who are entrepreneurs as well as those who are just trying to be better in life.  It might seem like the church has poor judgment when it comes to who we use, but I am grateful for training ground…

I always think of the church as being very loving and forgiving, I think that because that is what my church has been to me.  When I started teaching years ago, I started in the Children's ministry.  That gave me a good audience that challenged me with their questions and their lack of interest. When I started teaching adults,  many would tell me how good I taught, even when I felt horrible.  There were legitimate times that I KNEW my deliver was messed up and no one should have said anything kind to me, just prayed.  You would not have known it by the response of the saints.  The encouragement though undeserved, was a balm that helped me to continue honing my skills.  I am much better today, but still have days that I am glad for a group that is truthful, but so thankful for those who are just well… nice.

LIVE CRITICS 

This is not always the case in life…  I recently watched as a well-known pop artist made a comeback on national TV.  She has survived suicidal thoughts and difficulties in her life and was finally coming back after two years of trying to pull herself together.   After a panic attack before performing, she went on stage and began to sing.  It was difficult but she made it through, but not without a slew of insensitive and nasty attacks on her performance.  My heart and prayers went out to her as she had to endure such hatefulness and live through such scrutiny.  Sometimes people are cruel because they don't know what people have gone through, but it is so much worse when they do.

HONESTY 

We may think that it is our job to be honest and scrutinize folks all the time, but think back to when you were beginning your journey, did you do everything right?  There has to be a time to learn how to do what you do better, or how do we learn.  I do believe that not every lesson has to be in front of the entire congregation, but there has to be a place and a setting that allows those who are called to teach, minister,  sing or speak, to do so with constructive criticism, and a heart to see them fulfill their purpose.  The most difficult things are when someone has chosen something that is obviously NOT their niche.  But even in that scenario, love can help to point them in the right direction. 

PRAY FOR EACH OTHER 

I pray for this young lady as she goes through this very public scrutiny, I pray that she finds hope in God and understands that we may miss it in life, but we  can get back on track and ignore those who mean us harm.   I encourage you today, if you are in the midst of testing the waters in your niche, surround yourself with good people who are honest, but love you.  The bible tells us to restore people with a spirit of meekness, not judgment or harsh words.   We are here for each other, we help each other do better and honor God while blessing people.  It pays to have people around you who love you enough to tell the truth in LOVE.  Be one of those people. 

"Single and Not Settling?"

Relationships, are one of the most complicated things we will ever be involved in!  

As we are nearing Valentines Day, many people get anxious about who they are with, their relationship status, and what they will do that day if they are alone.  Many desire to be in a relationship, but years have gone by, and they still have not found the 'right' person.  We have heard for years about what makes for a good relationship, and what things to avoid.  Before we get into what we are 'Settling for" if you are currently single, be sure you are taking advantage of this time!  Enjoy the break,  learn to discover who you are, who you are becoming, and learn to love you.    Work on your purpose projects that required faith without the backing of a spouse to rest on.  It  can be interesting, fun, scary, and also exciting to trust God in that way.  When it comes to a relationship, yes, you may have  a long term goal that includes marriage, and that is great, but don't get so focused on that person that you waste this time.   

DON'T SETTLE...

In talking to many unmarried people,  it seems we have all been given the same talk.  "Don't Settle."  But what exactly does that mean?  I know that typically it means don't settle for anything less than what you want, don't settle for a person who is not in a high income bracket, don't settle for looks that are not magazine ready, don't settle for someone who is not sensitive, driven, given to your every whim, and kind at the same time.  Don't settle for someone who is cheap... or could that be frugal?? See every negative trait is a positive quality that is being misused.  So what you see as cheap could later pay off a house, or have you going on regular vacations... it is all in how you see it, and what is really there.

I don't know what your 'Don't settle' BOX speech has been, but I will tell you this...  None of us meet all the requirements of  that BOX, including YOU.  Many single people- especially women have been put in a box that someone else made, and we stay there hoping this perfect person will walk out of the shadows and we connect.   We don't look for potential anymore, we actually want a ready made package. We don't listen to good conversations if they don't look like what we want, and somehow we want them to pass the BOX test instead of being what we actually need according to God's specifications. 

Many of us have been taught not to settle for things when it comes to relationships so we raise the bar so high that nobody meets it, then we wonder why we're  still unmarried. There's nothing wrong with being unmarried because this is opportunity for us to really focus on what God has called us to do,  and build on our own, directly from God without having to be concerned with others input.

SETTLING FOR OR SETTLING WITH 

"Settle: to resolve or reach an agreement about, to decide on, a mutual agreement, to adopt a more steady or secure style of life, or make a permanent home somewhere."

Let's be honest, with this definition, we all want to settle!  We want to come to an agreement with someone with mutual benefits and be able to be steady and secure in our relationship. When people tell you not to 'settle', it is really up to the two of you what you are both settling for.  To settle well means you have time to talk about what you both want.  It is time to examine what you both have and if compromise is necessary, you make it!  Settling can mean that you are going with what is in front of you, and you both have a plan to work it to get what you want out of it.  When both parties make that type of agreement, you have a  firm base to spring greatness from.  Your strength may build the deficit in one area of their life,  and their strength may build a deficit in yours.  The hardest thing is for both to admit the deficits, and at the same time embrace the strength of another.  

If you are still single and extra critical of everyone you meet, maybe you should consider looking outside the box you have created, or that has been created for you.  Talk to God, talk to them, and if you have the basics in place, and desire to build from there....  it might just be a good place to settle!