Verse of the Week. Romans 8:18

 ^{Verse of the Week}

 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

^{Romans 8:18}

Did You Know... Genealogy of Jesus 77 Fathers

Jesus Genealogy ( 77 Fathers )

Verse of the Week Philippians 4:13

Verse of the Week

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

 

Philippians 4:13

Your Gethsemane

Gethsemane

³⁶ Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” ³⁷ He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. ³⁸ Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
³⁹ Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
⁴⁰ Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. ⁴¹ “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
⁴² He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.”
⁴³ When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. ⁴⁴ So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.
⁴⁵ Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. ⁴⁶ Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”

 Reading this scripture quite a bit stood out to me. Everyone goes through a Gethsemane. Our Gethsemane could be to maintain the best performance possible at a job that we no longer to be. It could be to have faith and take a peaceful approach to a confrontation that has been bothering you for quite some time. It might even be family matters, Maybe a strained relationship with a parent or a struggling marriage where two partners have drifted apart.  Sure it does not have the impact of what our savior Jesus Christ toiled with  but there are some things to learn from it. 

First it is natural to look for ways around the matter at hand. Even when Jesus Christ was placed in an stressful situation he looked for a possible way out. He begin to Pray to God that this cup be taken from him. The "cup" was used to symbolize the burden he a carried of  his crucifixion. He prayed numerous times that if it be Gods will that it would be removed from him. Praise God that he went through with it. But often times in our life we look for ways around our own Gethsemane. However your situation is the very thing that God has placed in your life to test your submission to him. It will be a situation that you did not see coming and do not see the way to get out of  either. Through obedience and a closer walk with him comes blessings. Just as Jesus ascended he also wants to raise up from the current situation we are experiencing. We might not levitate to the heavens while in physical form he will shift and show favor after going through your garden or  trial.

Finally sometimes we use the wrong outlets for strength and support. When you are going through your Gethsemane it is a journey of trust and obedience with you and God. A friend if rooted in the word might have a few words of encouragement but it is intended to be a strengthening process between you and God. Just as the disciples were of little help to Jesus your Gethsemane will have to be walked and overcome by you only. Just as a teacher can not evaluate what you have learned if others are providing answers your God can not see you submit and walk in faith with others pushing you along.  During your Gethsemane pray, keep the faith and be ready to ascend when its all said and done. 

Verse of the Week...Matthew 24:35

Verse of the Week

 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

Did you know...Psalm 119

Did You Know

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the bible.

Verse of the Week...Hebrews 13:8

Verse of the Week

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Hebrews 13:8

Did you Know...Joshua leads tribe

Did you Know

After the death of Moses, Joshua led the Israelite tribes in the conquest of Canaan, and allocated the land to the tribes.

Book of Joshua

Verse of the Week John 14:21

 Verse of the Week

Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”

John 14:21

Did you know...Old Testament

Did you know

The Old Testament has 17 Historical, 5 Poetical, and 17 Prophetic books in it.

• The 17 Historical Books are: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther.
• The 5 Poetical Books are: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon,
• The 17 Prophetic Books are: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.

Verse of the Week: Psalm 19:7

Verse of the Week

 

The law of the Lord is perfect,
    refreshing the soul.
The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,
    making wise the simple.

 

Psalm 19:7

Did you Know...Let your light shine

Did You Know

Jesus refers to believers as the Salt of the Earth and the light of the World. We do not light lamps and put it under a bowl. Instead we place that lamp on a stand and it shines light for all around. Let your light shine so that it glorifies your Father in Heaven.

Matthew 5:13-16

Verse of the Week...Ask and it will be given

Verse of the Week

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

Matthew 7:7

Did You Know...Shake the dust from your feet

Did You Know

Jesus informed the disciples to spread the word that the kingdom of heaven has come near, but if anyone will not listen to their words they should shake the dust off  their feet and leave that town. 

Matthew 10:14

Verse of the Week Matthew 5:6

Verse of the Week



Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

Matthew 5:6

Did You Know... God blesses Isaac

Did You Know

God blessed Isaac in a strange land to the extent that the King of the Philistines asked him to move because he had became to powerful and wealthy. 

 Genesis 26: 16-17

Verse of the week Colossians 3:23

Verse of the Week

Colossians 3:23

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters

Did you Know...Isaac is born

Did you Know

Isaac was born when Abraham was 100 years old. God kept his word and allowed Sarah to be a mother at a very old age.

Genesis 21: 1-7

Verse of the Week: John 14:6 (NIV)

Verse of the Week

John 14:6 (NIV)

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Know Jesus

Noah's obedience

Noah's obedience

I just recently begin reading the book of Genesis and read the passages on Noah. Going back and reading it now as opposed to when growing up there is a lot more to the story of Noah. God spoke to Noah and told him that because of the violence of mankind that he would be wiping the Earth clean and starting over by way of flood. He also told Noah to build and Ark and he would allow his wife and sons and there wives to join him on the Ark. He also instructed him to gather a male and female of every kind of living creature to start over. God provided him instruction on how to make the Ark. Noah heeded his word and built it just as he was told.  The bible said it rained for 40 days and 40 nights. He then allowed the water to remain on the Earth for 150 days. The waters rose to the mountains before descending. Looking back on this passage it is a clear account on how to be obedient to Gods word. No matter how outrageous or extreme the circumstance. He followed Gods plan. God's thoughts are not our thoughts therefore we will never understand fully his plans. We must trust in him when in instructed. I am sure that there were others Noah would of like to take with him but he was obedient to Gods word. The bible says that when there were on the Ark God shut it. God will insure that his will and way is carried out. He made sure nothing was to get in or out while on the Ark.  As Christians this is a great example of  following what God tells us. Noah after 150 years got off the Ark with his wife, sons and there wives and all the living creatures to begin mankind again. God made covenant with Noah that never again would he cause a flood to wipe out mankind and that the sign of the covenant would be a rainbow after clouds and rain. As Christians it may be hard sometimes to follow Gods word because we do not see or understand it but we walk by Faith and not by sight. Prayer and meditation is crucial to listening to what God has to tell you. I urge you to spend some time with God today and let him work in your life.

Did You Know...Rainbow Reminder

 Did You Know

Did you know...Whenever you experience cloudy days and rain followed by a rainbow it is a reminder to God of the covenant between him and all living creatures never to send a flood to destroy all life.

Genesis 9: 12-17

Verse of the Week: Matthew 6:33

Verse of the Week:

Matthew 6:33

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Give me that feat. Mali Music

The Lord's purpose prevails

The Lord's purpose prevails

I was reading Proverbs the other day and a few points came to mind that hit home. There are a lot of people I come across that feel they are not where they should be or not sure how God is going to use them. Some even question if God is using them at this current time and if he is how would they know.

Growing up I always was taken by the music industry. Since birth I would watch performers and mimic there moves. Adolescent years I took up writing and rapping. Many years went by and I got pretty good at it.  I went to school and worked but always thought about rap as the career meant for me. However what I have learned is you can practice and become good at something but it does not mean it is your purpose. A thief practices over time taking things that are not there’s but we know it is a commandment not to steal. Therefore it cannot possibly be Gods purpose for your life no matter how good you might be at it. The thing is no matter how good you are at something you will not feel complete or successful at it. I had recorded numerous songs and people that I would let hear them liked the material but they would always say why don’t you put this out, or this sounds as good as or better than what’s on the radio. The answer came earlier this year. I had talent at music but at least that kind of music was not my purpose with God. It was something in me that would not allow me to heavily promote material that would go against what had been imprinted in me since birth. Proverbs 19:21 says many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the lord's purpose that prevails. We can want something all we want but if it is not meant for you God will have the final word. Man cannot keep you away from your purpose or blessing not even yourself. When we try to deviate from it is when we face confusing and struggles internally and externally. This can go for careers, posessions and relationships.  I never understood why things were not going my way or why it never seemed like quite the right project to use as a demo.  I am not even sure that music is my purpose but I am stronger with God now and I pray for that purpose to be revealed. I know he will. I have faith that he will and that is start. One thing is for sure if it is music it will not be the same kind of music as before. When you change the things around seem different. I find myself not wanting to hear or entertain the same things. I am thankful for that. It shows God has implanted something that causes conviction when I know it is right.  Proverbs 20: 24 says a person's steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand their own way? You cannot lean to your own understanding.  Keep communication open with God and he will reveal things to you the more you talk to him.  Prayer and studying the word is the best way to discover your purpose. Reading the word and meditating on it will teach you about the word but also teach you about yourself.  I pray you strive towards living a purposeful life as well. I pray you have received something from this and have a blessed day.

Be a Blessing

Be a Blessing

There are so many selfish acts that we witness daily. People do harm to others over money or jealousy and it has become the norm to read or see on the news.  As Christians we are expected to be givers. We know that it is better to give than receive. If you want to feel good than do good. One of the best things you can do is give and assists someone in need.  I challenge you to be a blessing to someone today.   The bible says in Deuteronomy 16:17 every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which He has given you. Simply put if you can come to someone’s aid do so. Advice and encouragement is great but if you can be the direct blessing and solution then make the person in needs life easier. We as a people are too worried about ourselves and other people getting ahead. What is meant to be for you will be. The Lord already has your life set before you. You never know if the person you meet is an Angel or not. That person that is broke down along the road. Or maybe that person asking for changing really does need it. What about that person you know that needs a job but you do not want to get them on where you are for fear of their advancement? This is not how God wants us to be.  James 2: 15-16 says  Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food.16 If one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and well fed, but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? As Christians it is good to know the word but it is GREAT to apply it.  Be someones blessing today and when you do so keep it between you that person and God. Some of us look for too much recognition. Humility comes before honor. A lot of people already are ashamed to ask for help the help that they really need for fear of being exposed or mocked. There is no place for self-glorification in Gods army. If he wants you to be raised and honored there isn’t a man on earth that can keep that from happening.  Matthew  6:3-4 says But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Be a blessing today and watch blessings over flow in your life.

In these times:Faith

In These Times: Faith

2 Timothy 3

New International Version (NIV)

3 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. ² People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, ³ without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, ⁴ treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— ⁵ having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.

We are definitely in these times now. This is a time of strengthening your Faith. It is a time of prayer and working together as brothers/sisters in Christ. We are in the World but not of the World. The bible spoke of these times. I agree it is sad when graduate students are taking money they receive for education to purchase firearms to kill innocent people. (And yes I do not his name but why give more attention to evil deeds). CEOs with  strong Christian beliefs are ridiculed because of their stance on same sex marriage. In this life some people will like you. Some will love you. Some will dislike you and yes others might hate you. What is important is keeping your mind on God and looking to please him. In the end he is the only one that can decide whether you are in Heaven or Hell.

I was reading a post online and after the news post there were comments. Of course with the news you have all kinds of different opinions reflecting on the story but the one that stood out to me was a one sentence response that read. “Some people still believe in God?” This bothered me and to an extent angered me.  My first thought was why it would change. God is the same today as he was yesterday, and will be the same tomorrow. God does not change, unfortunately people do and sometimes not for the best.  I understand that the constant bad news can be depressing at times or bothersome but we walk by faith not by sight. We cannot get caught up in that. Faith is not like a coupon. It does not expire. There is no particular conditions that will cause your Faith in God to no longer be valid.God is still a provider, protector and healer. We believe in his miracles in the past. Why not believe that he will see you through now? Everything that is being experienced has been spoken of in the bible.  Thessalonians tells us that we belong to the day. and to be awake when the Lord comes back. The bible says he will come back like a thief in the night.  Even in these times: Faith.

1 Thessalonians 5

New International Version (NIV)

The Day of the Lord

5 Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, ² for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. ³ While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

⁴ But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. ⁵ You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. ⁶ So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. ⁷ For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. ⁸ But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. ⁹ For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁰ He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. ¹¹ Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Time Well Spent

Marvin Sapp The Best in Me on Sirius XM

Great song. He sounds even better during this session in my opinion than the album version.

Bishop TD Jakes on TBN w/ Steve Harvey

Powerful unexpected sermon while being interviewed by Steve Harvey on TBN.  Men of God need to hear this. (2011)

Jesus is...

Something about the name Jesus

Reflection of James 1: 1-18 Trials and Temptations

 

James 1

New International Version (NIV)

1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,

To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations:

Greetings.

Trials and Temptations

² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,^[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. ⁵ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. ⁶ But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. ⁷ That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. ⁸ Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
⁹ Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. ¹⁰ But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. ¹¹ For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.
¹² Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
¹³ When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; ¹⁴ but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. ¹⁵ Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
¹⁶ Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. ¹⁷ Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. ¹⁸ He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

Reflection of James Chapter 1 1-18

James begins with addressing this book to the twelve tribes scattered among nations. It is actually the descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob.

James informed his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ not to consider it pure joy when they are faced with trials and temptations. He explains that when your faith is tested it brings on perseverance.  Perseverance brings on maturity that will strengthen you. Just like weight lifting comes with pain that ultimately will strengthen you from the maturation so will your faith.  We are to view it as a positive thing. Just as a body builder still feels the burn but enjoys it because he knows the end result will be better than the present. 

 James 1:12 says: Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

He also told the twelve descendants if there is something you lack to ask for it. If you lack wisdom, ask and it shall be given.  However there can be no doubt. He stated a person of doubt is like a wave of the sea…blown and tossed away by wind.  Doubt prevents you from standing firm and holding true to what God has planned and promised you. There is no way to find direction in doubt…just as an always shifting wave. Faith gives you stability and strength.  Faith comes from studying and establishing a relationship through consistent communication with God.

Lastly,
He informs that no man should say God is tempting me. It is impossible for God to be tempted  and he does not tempt. Temptation comes from the enemy and if conceived or acted on brings on sin. Full blown sin brings Death. That is why it is important to ask for forgiveness and repent. We sin daily whether we know or not. However all good and perfect gifts come from God. Through the word of truth he gave a perfect gift of life that we might be the first fruits of all created.  We would be the first taken and of high value.  

James  provided hope during Trials and Temptations by informing it strengthens you in your walk with Christ. God also blesses those that persevere. During those times never curse our Father in heaven or his son for temptations do not come from him but he will be there to guide you through it. It will require faith and without faith you will be lost.  Spend some time strengthening your relationship and Faith in God today.