Feast or Famine!

So many people do not understand that struggles in your lives are not there to beat up on you, instill fear, or bring about hopelessness! Struggles happen that can either bring you closer to God or turn your hearts away from God!

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When you are burdened down with decisions, financial setbacks, a wayward child, or sickness, don't look to God and ask why? God is not the one who brings about any harm, destruction or sickness, He is the one who heals, delivers, and upholds! Remember this verse and always understand that Satan is real:

(The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they  may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it [overflows]).  (John 10:10 AMP)

Then why are these things happening to me; you say? Again, it's so that you will call upon the Lord to deliver you from the storm, and to build upon His goodness and mercy to allow God to be a friend, instead of a “as needed basis”! If you are not willing to Trust in Jesus, then your problems will continue to reoccur over and over again! Just like the Israelites in the wilderness. They complained (which is sin) even after God had showed them miracle after miracle; and still they did evil in the sight of God. Whereas, those whose hearts had turned from God, did not get to the promised land. The evil they did unto God, came upon them! 

When you eat food like this in excess, it leads to poor health and sickness; which triggers doctor bills, medication and  struggles   

Picture Courtesy of Promote Women Within

                                                                                

If you are not tired of it, then continue as you are; however, for those who are, then receive Jesus right now as your Lord and Savior and begin a life of freedom from sickness, lack, unemployment, division and separation in the home, that are warring against you to keep you from Trusting in Him! God did not create any of us to fail, but everything He created, He created for success!

Say it out loud: 

Father in my heart, I am troubled and perplexed; however, I know there has to be a better life than the one I am living! I want to be whole and free from doubt and worry. Cleanse me of the load I am trying to carry alone! Jesus I receive you now as my Lord and Savior, who died on the cross for my sins! I believe you are the son of God and died to give me salvation (the deliverance from eternal death) on the cross! I know the journey will come with obstacles; however, I am ready to receive the benefits of my rightful inheritance you gave to me thousands of years ago! Thank you Jesus for your eternal love, goodness and mercy for my life, that you alone saved! Amen!

Upon receiving Jesus, you will feel better! Now is the time to equip yourself with God's armor (Ephesians 6:11-17) so that you will be able to stand against the tricks and treachery of Satan ~ and establishing a relationship with Him! 

For it is by free grace (God’s unmerited favor) that you are saved (delivered from  judgment and made partakers of Christ’s salvation) through [your] faith. And this  [salvation] is not of yourselves [of your own doing, it came not through your own  striving], but it is the gift of God; Not because of works [not the fulfillment of the Law’s demands], lest any man  should boast. [It is not the result of what anyone can possibly do, so no one can  pride himself in it or take glory to himself.] (Ephesians 2:8-9 AMP)

He Reigns!

Advent [noun] – the arrival of a notable person, thing or event.

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Today, November 27, begins the Advent season. It was established (by Martin Luther) to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of the Messiah, (a second time). Although in ancient times, the book of Isaiah foretold the Jews of Jesus' coming to save them from their sinful ways!

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:6-7 NKJV)

The Jews, God's chosen people, truly longed for a leader; however, they misrepresented themselves through idol worship, and deceit! Their inability to grasp all God's mercy and goodness, caused them to suffer greatly at the hands of their enemies.

Thank God, Jesus was born to deliver us from our sinful ways and give us hope and a future! Although His life was short here on earth, He reigns in Heaven, which is our divine destination!

Many churches do not practice the Advent season; however, there are some who do. Whether you honor Advent or not, everything that Jesus is, we want to become: Hope, Joy, Love, and Peace! This is what is meant to be Christ like! He walked this Earth to show us how to forgive wholeheartedly, love unconditionally, and receive Salvation! Although Jesus was given gifts at His birth, He is our gift at His death! So Honor Him with Thanksgiving and Praise, from whom ALL Blessings flow!

Haircuts for the homeless: New York City hair stylist swaps salon for the streets

• Mark Bustos is a 30-year-old hairstylist in Manhattan
• Every Sunday, Bustos goes around the city offering haircuts to people who can't afford them
• Bustos began cutting hair for impoverished people on a family visit to the Philippines in May 2012
• Bustos provides free haircuts to as many as six people every Sunday

By James Gordon

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2730212/Swapping-salon-streets-New-York-City-hair-stylist-transforms-looks-homeless-gives-free-haircuts-day-off.html

“Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you the most joyful news ever announced, and it is for everyone! The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born tonight in Bethlehem! How will you recognize him? You will find a baby wrapped in a blanket, lying in a manger!” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God: “Glory to God in the highest heaven,” they sang, “and peace on earth for all those pleasing him.” When this great army of angels had returned again to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Come on! Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this wonderful thing that has happened, which the Lord has told

us about.” (Luke 2:10-15 TLB)

Salvation came at a cost; but is freely given to all who believe in Jesus!

The Goodness of Giving!

God as I read the book of Amos, modern day world is like this today. The wealthy never consider giving, helping, serving and feeding those who are struggling and in need! However, there are ALWAYS those faithful believers in You who DO serve you and act on your Word. They demonstrate Your love to those in need by serving them, building shelters and homes, feeding them, digging wells, and ministering to them! Drawing all people unto You, so they too, will inherit the Kingdom of God! Amen!

 

Those who serve the Lord, serve others this Thanksgiving (that is fast approaching) so that we are reaching out to those in need out of our wealth God has blessed us with! As you are always blessed, be a blessing!

 

 

Words Start Wars!

Father, Thank You we are lifting up those close to us with our words; instead of tearing them down! Words are powerful; whereas, they can ignite conflict or compliment and value the good in others!

God, you alone, focus on “good” in ALL of us and know our hearts, so that all darkness will be exposed by Your light! Thank You!

Your endless love will transform anyone; so I pray that all of us who are tempted to lash out at a loved one, a friend, a co-worker, in anger, to look up to you in prayer so the right words are spoken to keep peace, unity and sobriety in the environment. In the midst of storms, if we look to the left or to the right (seeking others for advice) we will be consumed by the waves (The conflict will spiral out of control)! It's so import to be prayerful in ALL situations and let “You” God handle them!

“Behold, I have created the blacksmith Who blows the coals in the fire, Who brings forth an instrument for his work; And I have created the spoiler to destroy. No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment, You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness is from Me,” Says the Lord. (Isaiah 54:16-17 NKJV)

Don't Turn Your Back!

Many of us do not wake up and say, “I like myself”, or take it a step further and say, “I love who I am”! The majority of us do not like who we are, who we have become or how to obtain a positive attitude about ourselves!

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If you are one of the many who do not like yourself, it starts with a small act; and can end in destruction to those who allow the negative thoughts to magnify! I see it everyday! So many of our youth are trying drugs and become addicted, alcohol and become addicted, pills and become addicted, cigarettes and become addicted, sex (which transpires into a child out of wedlock or a life threatening sexual disease), eating disorders and become dysfunctional and disillusioned! All of these destroying acts lead to detrimental destruction and many deaths!
 

Please bare with me. If you are feeling blue, don't add to the fire and do things to inflame it more! I am appalled at the youth who have become Mothers and Fathers out of a selfish act. It's irresponsible, because the thought and action is self-gratifying! Being a Mother and Father at a young age again, is not what you probably had in mind; therefore, think about what the outcome will be from having sex; when you are not married. It leads to unwanted things that are permanent in life and the very things you are doing are categorized as sin - as well as self-destruction!

We all go through hurt, rejection, and even pain, but we all don't allow it to consume us; and become someone you are not meant to be. I have asked a few young people while teaching, but not many, do they read the bible; or know anything about Jesus? They do believe there is a God, but that's as far as it goes. If you have a listening ear, you can discern a young life in need of help! You will run into a few who do not want to hear what you are saying about Jesus; however, when you tell them how much God loves them just the way they are; they begin to get quiet – and listen! One young man started crying! That's when I knew he was reaching out for help!

Numerous (not all) established churches are not reaching out to those who are in need of a Savior! Churches are established to help the poor, the needy, the downtrodden; but, again many turn the poor, the needy, and downtrodden away! Churches are not established to please man, but to please God. Whereas, how are we going to help others when most members put themselves in the judgment seat! It's easy to succeed when we view those with money, titles  and education as an image we want to portray to man, but, that's not what we are called to do. Anything worth saving and delivering, takes courage, boldness, and faith in God. Once He sees those who are reaching  out, then He will reach down and bless the church and it's members! Here is what Jesus said:

He went out again beside the sea, and all the crowd was coming to him, and he was teaching them. And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he reclined at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners were reclining with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. And the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Mark 2:13-17 ESV)

We as saved people cannot turn our backs any longer and watch our future destroyed. Open up the doors of the churches for prayer, activities, opportunities to volunteer in the community; and in turn, get out from behind the closed church doors and minister to others - in need! I pray our church members turn from being Pharisees (Hypocrites), and begin to be disciples (those who serve)! Your rewards will be in Heaven!

Together, with Jesus, we can change one life at a time, one step at a time!

Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.

“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (Matthew 6:1-4 ESV)

Perpetual Spring!

Idle hands are the devil’s workshop; idle lips are his mouthpiece. An evil man sows strife; gossip separates the best of friends. Wickedness loves company—and leads others into sin. (Proverbs 16:27-29 TLB)

I can honestly say, I have never looked forward to retirement or being out of “something to do”! The past two years of being unemployed, has been an eye opener! To view so many (not all) people who have labored hard physically, mentally, and emotionally and then retire do “nothing”!

There are a few who do some things; but for most, their definition of retiring is to do whatever they want! What transpires is an unhealthy lifestyle; which is doing too much of one thing, and not enough of another - out of balance! 

I'm not speaking for all, but again, many live a routine life, some over eat, some have developed chronic illness, causing them to reside in assisted living facilities, and some have the money and time to travel, but do not! It's an unfulfilled life; without anything being said!  

Retirement should not be boring, unfulfilled or routine. It's like any foreseen change; you  prepare, with Gods' help - you do your part, and let Him do the rest!

If you are a Christian, we (I'm including myself) are to seek out the needy, the downtrodden, the poor, the widowed, and the hungry; everyday, whether retired or not! Opportunities arise hourly, daily, and weekly!

Retired Dentist Shows Students the Magic Behind Helping Others ...

Those who have families, parents, and neighbors have plenty to do! I'm not asking you to force yourselves or get involved in their affairs; however, many of us know who needs help, who needs food, and who needs a ride somewhere! You shouldn't have to be asked, but offer yourselves and your time!

Being in ministry, (which we are all called to do in some form or fashion) should not leave you tired, worn out, or fed up! If you come away with any of these emotions, then you are doing it in your own strength (grudgingly, with a hard heart, and judgmentally)!

When you are led by God to do anything, you are at peace, nothing deters you and you understand others pain and suffering without denying yourself of your needs! There will be people who we are not able to help no matter what - never overlook prayer! 

No one sets out to live a selfish life; however, many of us go down that path! All of us work hard at something; but what many do not realize is that when we replace working for God instead of man, then our thoughts and actions change! Never look forward to a selfish life of focusing totally on ourselves – if that is your idea of “a job well done”, then ask God for living water!

The woman was surprised that a Jew would ask a “despised Samaritan” for anything—usually they wouldn’t even speak to them!—and she remarked about this to Jesus. He replied, “If you only knew what a wonderful gift God has for you, and who I am, you would ask me for some living water!” “But you don’t have a rope or a bucket,” she said, “and this is a very deep well! Where would you get this living water? 12 And besides, are you greater than our ancestor Jacob? How can you offer better water than this which he and his sons and cattle enjoyed?” Jesus replied that people soon became thirsty again after drinking this water.  “But the water I give them,” he said, “becomes a perpetual spring within them, watering them forever with eternal life.” (John 4:9-14 TLB)

Biblical Conviction Series Part 4 of 4

In the final Biblical Conviction Series, I had in my mind who and what to present; however, God led me to read the book of Joshua. After reading just a few chapters, it is evident that Joshua is truly a man of biblical conviction.

In the book of Joshua as you read Joshua Chapter 1, you will find in Chapter 1:6 “Be strong (confident) and of good courage”, Chapter 1:7 “Only you be strong and very courageous”, Chapter1:9 “Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous”, and Chapter 1:18 “Only be strong, vigorous, and of good courage”. 

Now I’m sure you are wondering why God reminded Joshua four times in Chapter 1 to be strong, confident and of good courage; I did also, until God revealed to me why He continued to remind Joshua of obtaining and maintaining these characteristics. 

“Only be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go”. (Joshua 1:7 AMP)

Joshua served Moses during his leadership; and was devoted to and loved God. So God chose Joshua to succeed Moses and lead the people into the Promised Land. To lead thousands of people anywhere is a substantial responsibility; but Joshua accepted the call on his life!

Joshua had many obstacles to overcome before the people could possess the land, as well as enemies to defeat. If he, in any way, doubted God and was not obedient to His Word, it would prohibit Joshua from receiving God's power as well as His instructions and guidance to possess it. In addition, the people would lose faith in Joshua; and begin to put their trust in things instead of the only true God! He would only succeed with trust, dependence, and obedience to God and His commandments! As stated in Joshua 1:7, “Turn not from it to the right hand or the the left, that you may prosper wherever you go”. God is saying, "Do not look any where and to anyone but Me"!

   Rahab letting down the spies!

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Joshua Chapter 2 is a very profound chapter of Rahab, a harlot! Although she deeply feared for her and her family's life, as well as her native people; she also possessed courage when she understood the concept, "You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours"! She said, "If your God can part the Red Sea and conquer the Amorite Kings of Sidon, and Og; surely He will give us into your hands"! (Joshua 2:20 AMP)

Rahab states, "Since I've hidden you safely, I ask you to spare me and my family from death". (Joshua 2:12 AMP) The spies agreed, but instructed her to do two things, place the scarlet rope in the window, and secure your family in the house. If anyone leaves, they are not responsible for their death. (Joshua 18-20 AMP) She agreed and the spies went out safely to report to Joshua that God is truly given them all of the land; because the people greatly fear us! (Joshua 2:24 AMP)

This print is showing the Priest going before the people with the Ark of the Covenant in the Jordan River!

I do not own the rights of this photo

Through out the Book of Joshua, God instructed him to do many things that led the Israelites to victory - parting the Jordan River (Joshua 3:16-17 AMP), walking around the wall of Jericho one time for six days, and the seventh day, walk around it seven times. Blowing the trumpet and shouting loudly, crumbled the wall and allowed the Israelites to attack and conquer them - except Rahab and her family! (Joshua 6:14-17 AMP) Nearly losing God's favor over them when Achan confiscated spoils in Jericho, that God forbid all of them to do. He and his family, cattle, and all belongings were stoned to death and then burned! Wow, that took courage - and obedience! (Joshua 7 AMP)

Joshua also reminded the Israelites, and those to come, of the miracles God performed by commemorating and establishing altars Victory after Victory! Which is imperative to bring to thought and memory of how God provided, protected, and kept them healthy along the journey to the Promised Land! 

Walking around the Walls of Jericho with the Ark of the Covenant!

I do not own the rights to this photo

Biblical conviction is not for the faint of heart, It requires boldness, courage, and tenacity! Joshua truly was a man of biblical conviction. He stayed true to God, and did not allow anyone to cause him to stumble, fall, or serve anyone but God!

“And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”. (Joshua 24:15 AMP)

 Many of us allow riches and wealth to overtake us that soon leads us down an unrighteous path to destruction! We value the money, more than we value God!
Do not hurry up God or think you can hide from Him! He will bless you; whereas, He blesses us in His timing, and His way; which is always righteous and victorious! 

Apart from God we can do nothing!
 

 

Itr's the Simple Things!

You do not have to spend a fortune on your children to keep them happy and entertained! Yes I am a Mother and Grandmother and I have witnessed parents today who invest in things that truly do not hold their value, the child's interest very long; and severs the parent/child relationship. Purchasing expensive toys does not prove anything except raising a child who will soon become selfish, demanding and self-centered. Your child will not fall apart if you put your foot down and tell them "no"; and neither will you!

He who spares his rod hates his son,
But he who loves him disciplines him promptly. (Proverbs 13:24 NKJV)

There are numerous things you can do at home with your child that is creative and fun. Children love a challenge and one of the most practical things to do at home (if space allows) is to set up a card table with a puzzle that is beyond their age level. When they come to you and say they are bored, steer them towards the puzzle and watch a very determined child, determined to figure out how to put that puzzle together (They will sit there for hours doing it also)!

Replace soda pop with a healthy Slushy! I remember one of my Great Aunts would put ice and 100% orange juice in a blender and make Orange Juice Slushies during hot summer days! We loved them! You can use fruit juices, water enhancers, etc. Again be creative! Create a scavenger hunt in the house using index cards with clues that are a combination of math and word definitions! Again, learning as well as having fun! I created a scavenger hunt, years ago, during Sunday school class. I had the class locate scripture in the bible; whereas, I didn't put what book the scripture was located; and used scripture as clues to locate specific leaves, stones, and flowers outside. They met the challenge and exceeded my expectations (I’m glad to know they were paying close attention in class), and wanted to do it again the next Sunday!

                                                                               Homemade watermelon slushy!

It's the simple things that intrigue a child! Winter is coming and the cold weather does not permit anyone to stay out for long hours and be adventurous; so think outside the box. If you do purchase a Wii or X Box, limit their time on it, so they can do other things that involve movement, and exercising the brain. 

Reading an appropriate book of interest is a very good exercise for the brain and comes highly recommended. Reading was mandatory for both of my children, at grade school level. They had one hour before bed to read a book or magazine to wind down. (Set aside a time that is good for your household) Have your child get in the habit of carrying a book with them when they know they are going somewhere with a long wait - such as the doctor's office too!

My son loved sports as a young child and still does, so my sister subscribed him to Children’s Sports Illustrated and he would read it from cover to cover. Even reading magazines broadened his vocabulary, as well as learning geography! Yes, he knew almost all of the 50 state capitals by associating them with the state of the ball team! Hey, he was reading, and often! My daughter loved to read and still does also; but she enjoys all types of books. 

Both of my children were and still are very intelligent; however, if they are inquisitive about something they do not know, I remind them to go to the library – and they do frequent it often. I'm saddened that many do not gravitate towards the library as often as they used to!

In addition, establish your own family traditions! I have adult children now in their thirties (with children), and they had chores, we created fun things to do, and we ate as a family at home except on Fridays. Friday was our day to dress up and go to a sit down restaurant so they could learn proper dinner etiquette.

Saving money is good, but building relationships with your children, teaching them how to create, challenge their intellect, and exercise the brain, develops a successful child! It’s an investment you will get a return on! 

                                           Math puzzle with answers!