Out of the Mouth!

I just heard the most profound thing watching an old sitcom. Although I have heard the story of baby Jesus being born in a manger many times, I had never heard it told the way it was presented in this episode.

 

While watching “Mama's Family”, Thelma Harper (her stage name) played by Vicki Lawrence, happened to be in the midst of homeless victims who were gathered downtown to receive goodies from a group of college students. She showed up because her grandson took her wallet by accident. However, her grandson didn't go because the college group got wind the police were going to be there so they opted out. During the whole ordeal all of those present were all arrested for loitering basically in a public place.

 

Before she knew it, she was herded to jail with the rest of those present. After she realized what was going on, she refused to cooperate and be put in jail. She put up a good fight too; not physically, but by trying to persuade the police they were making a big mistake because she wasn't homeless. Thelma told them she only came downtown to find her grandson who had her wallet. She wasn't as persuasive as she would have liked and was put in the cell anyway with women, one child, and men; while standing at the cell door yelling, “I'm NOT staying in this cell with dirty, homeless people”.

 

After realizing what came out of her mouth, she quickly apologized to those in the cell and tried to smooth it over by saying, "I'm not saying you all in here are bad people, but I don't belong here"! Finally she gave up and the only child in the cell came up to her and said; "Miss? You can have my seat"! And Thelma humbled herself, knelt down and asked the little girl, "Sweetie, what are you doing in here?" The little girl said, "Me and my Mom are homeless and have nowhere to go. We were living out of our car until they came and towed it away." Then Thelma bowed her head and told the little girl that she would not take her seat, she would just sit in the corner next to this homeless lady. Once she sat down, this woman she sat next to said, " Hello Thelma!" And she quickly turned to this woman, to her surprise, she was a relative. Of course, she wanted to know why she was there, so she asked. The woman told her that when her husband died, she lost him and the farm; and at her age it was hard to find work. So for two years she has been roaming the streets. She responded; "You can't have an apartment if you can't pay the rent"!

While all of this was going on, the Mayor had called the police department and commanded the police officers to free the homeless people. The policemen were indifferent about doing so and remarked that it's election year and the Mayor wants to look like he cares about the homeless to get votes. They obeyed the Mayor's orders, attempted to release everyone; but Thelma, after hearing all of the stories of why so many were homeless, told the police they can't release no one - because none of them have no where to go. Yes, you guessed it! She argued with the police and refused to leave or let the people leave until they found some place for them to go. During this confrontation, the policeman had the cell door slightly open with the key still in the door and Thelma grabbed the keys, put them down her shirt, slammed the door; and told the police come and get them if they could. This time the policeman tried to persuade her that she didn't belong in the cell with all of these homeless people and that she was different then the rest. She softly said; " I know of a baby that was born in a barn. The parents tried to find a place to have the baby, but that was the only available place.” Without even thinking, the policeman said; Well lady, that's what happens when you are poor"! And Thelma said, "The baby I'm talking about was Jesus!" The policeman spoke before he thought, but actually, he spoke what he felt in his heart - and he tried to smooth it over also.

 

After much determination from Thelma, everyone was released; whereas, the show concluded with Thelma and her relative sitting on the couch thanking the local church for allowing all those in the jail to stay there until all of them were placed in a safe and clean place to live. In addition, Thelma told her relative that she would help her find a place of her own; however, she had to stay with her until that happened. 

 

The moral of the story, I gathered, is Thelma was in the right place at the right time not by choice; but by purpose (God's purpose) so those who have fallen can be restored - and because Thelma is woman of courage, grit, tenacity, love, and determination, God knows those are the ones He puts on the front line to fight and win battles. Thelma made sure her voice was heard, "LOUD AND CLEAR" that it doesn't take money or compassion, it takes a “WILL” to want to! No this is not a true story, but it made me think of all the times we are put in a situation just like Thelma; but many of us choose to walk away - because we are "Self-Centered", instead of "God-Centered"! 

Down on Broadway!

As I drove around my old community of my childhood, I reminisced of what was and how the community has become a disarray of decay and destruction; that used to be a community that flourished with love, gratitude, a deep respect and honor for God, as well as a community that appreciated the little things - and understood that struggles don't last always! 

                                                                                          Broadway School Yard that is still being used

There were family and friends that lived from Mulberry street (East) to Vine Street (West); and Presbyterian Street (North) to Sixth Street (South). There was one particular street that was wider than any street should be, without being called a highway; which was Broadway Street. Everything happened on Broadway - New Year's Eve bonfires, skateboarding, sledding, street dances, and worship services. It was and still is a street like no other, that if it could talk, would intrigue you of how much history has passed by on "Broadway"!

The community didn't come with it's problems; because it showed how we can become so enamored with worldly views, we forget about how God views us. As we all know, there are many blacks who looked white; whereas, they would disown their heritage so their life could be free of rejection and more of acceptance. "But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (I Samuel 16:7 AMP) Why did I mention this from a story that is about a community of love, and respect and honor for God? It's because one, God put it on my heart to mention this, and two, it shows us how we, again, separate and divide to promote and elevate our own ego and life, instead of trusting God to do it!

Broadway High School establishment that was the only school established to educate blacks in Madison.

I did feel sadness as I drove through the neighborhood that once was, no longer exist or flourish with those who made it our home. Ecclesiastes 7:10, Amplified version says: "Do not say, Why were the old days better than these? For it is not wise or because of wisdom that you ask this".

But, I also understand that we are not to long for the good old days either; because the past is gone and cannot be no more. We are to look forward to what God has in store for us and how we as the light and salt of the world are to make it better than yesterday.

"You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste (its strength, its quality), how can its saltiness be restored? It is not good for anything any longer but to be thrown out and trodden underfoot by men.

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.

Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.

Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven". (Matthew 5:13-16 AMP)

So many of us have strayed from God and gone their own way and are in a valley wondering how to get out so they can find the comfort and joy they once had. It can be that way once again, but not without work on our part and without a true commitment to Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

                                    John Paul Park. Softball games were played by old and young alike since the 1930's            

"For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning". (Psalm 30:5 KJV) There is nothing that God can't do, but we have to understand, nothing will change until we change our thinking and attitude towards ourselves and others that the change we are looking for is already within us to stop believing that yesterday was better than today!

                                      Addition to John Paul Park that used to have slides, merry-go-rounds and swings.

I'm all in "Knots"!

As I have observed having babies out of wedlock, there is a separation that is causing destruction between the child, and parents. The Mother is complaining she is not getting enough child support or any at all, the Father is complaining he has to pay child support and can't live comfortably because it's taking all his money! The devil is busy! He puts things in other people's heads that is not true, and we as a society jump right in line and do what Satan describes over what God has laid the foundation of what a family should be.

I am the Door; anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live). He will come in and he will go out [freely], and will find pasture. 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 10:9-10 AMP)

Satan says, “Have sex, nothing will happen”! God says, “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord”. (Psalm 27:14 KJV)

This is not God's plan for us to be in strife ALL the time! This is the works of the Devil. Now think about it! You have no peace, no help, no security, and no money – well some have little money, but still it's not enough to keep the bills going and take care of the household.

I am divorced and have reaped the devastation of a single income verses two incomes. When I was married, there was NEVER NOT enough. We worked as a team, bills were paid, car notes were paid, and mortgage was paid. I have to say, I knew in my heart that it was going to be a struggle, so I didn't get a divorce until my children were almost out of the house, and even then, I have struggled financially, and it has affected my children also. So if you think I am speaking from speculation, think again. It's not a walk in the park to continue to have babies and everyone, including you suffers because of carelessness and selfishness of a mishap that could have been prevented.

 

As I have mentioned, I was married and we had two children from the union. What women are doing now is devaluing themselves and accepting mediocrity. YES, it is way less than God's best for you. I know I didn't have the talk from my parents of how valuable I am to God and how much He loves me enough for me to wait for God to place that right man in my life, as well as molding that right man for me! Nor did I have that with my children; but they did have a biblical foundation. And what I mean by that is they were brought up reading the bible, as well as going to church; because I was their Sunday School Teacher for ten years!

Now that I know and understand God's ways is the best way and how much He does bless a marriage and the children, I will have that talk with my Grandchildren or at least instill it in their parents to have it with them. I want to share a message in the bottle I was very blessed to read and hold dear to my heart from the Author, Pastor Levi Lusko that he told to his daughter:

Hold out for honor. You are worth more than you know. You are created in the image of God, and your value exceeds that of rubies or diamonds.

 

You are loved, and you are lovely. You are appointed and anointed to rule and reign with God as royalty. You are the head and not the tail; you are from above and not beneath. You are a leader, not a follower. Don't rush, don't hurry, and don't settle! Let God prepare you, and believe that He is also preparing someone for you.

 

No matter what is behind you, from this day forward, embrace God's plans for you. (Swipe Right: The Life and Death Power of Sex and Romance by Levi Lusko)

 

I am still single and knew from my divorce that I needed to heal spiritually, physically, and mentally, and I am holding out for honor, as well as letting God prepare me for someone as well as preparing someone for me!

Two are better than one, because they have a good [more satisfying] reward for their labor; For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie down together, then they have warmth; but how can one be warm alone? And though a man might prevail against him who is alone, two will withstand him. A threefold cord is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 AMP)

Here We Go Again!

There is not much many of us know about the Zika Virus, other than it is transmitted by an infected mosquito carrying the virus. This virus can also be transmitted through sex, blood transfusions, and animals. It is primarily affecting the fetus of a pregnant woman that causes the brain to stop developing as well as the head. Whereas, the baby's head is considerably smaller than the rest of it's body, causing it to be deformed! We also know there is no cure for it at the moment either.

I'm sure many are thinking, “God why is this happening?” The first thing that came to my mind is, “God is telling us something and we are NOT listening”! Sex has become a pandemic in this world; whereas, people are having too many sex partners and feel it's something to brag about. Men are fathering children through sex, but not actually being a father; and women are having babies by at least four to five different men and are not married to none of them. Pornography is over a million dollar business at the expense of young women and men being chained and beaten to perform sexual activity that numerous people are supporting the industry by purchasing the magazines, videos, and tapes. I know this is infuriating many who are reading this, but before you become outraged, begin a Bible study and a relationship with God to understand His hurt and pain by our bad behavior. Sex was created by God to be pleasurable and powerful between a husband and wife. But the thief (Satan) comes to steal, kill, and destroy. (John 10:10)

Anything God creates for our pleasure, Satan steps in, deceives us, and causes destruction. Yes, I'm talking about the Zika virus, but when I saw sex as a way of transmitting the disease, and you have to have sex to become pregnant, it sparked a big “SIGH” in me! We as a “human race” are still going around this mountain of affliction; and have NOT understood why we are in this circle of affliction and bondage to diseases that keeps them awake at night wondering if they will catch something by being sexually active to many partners! When you are sexually active to only “one” partner throughout your lifetime, you have pleasure, peace, and health that is placed upon you and your household by God! His blessings are forevermore and through eternity!

The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. They have no idea what they are stumbling over. My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil. (Proverbs 4:18-27 NLT)

Before you say, "I Do"!

So you are planning a wedding. Making sure all of the logistics are in place, as well as the venues to hold the reception party, the photographer and possibly a honeymoon to follow. Weddings are a must in our society, but marriage is a Holy Matrimony between a man and women made from God to share a life partnership together that Serves God together, governs together, pro-creates together, and educates their children together.

 

 

It is a partnership, unlike a business partnership, where the two are the knot that should not be broken or undone by little things in life that can destroy the union ~ if you allow it to! The vows do say, "Let no man put asunder"; which means separate you. So why is the marriage institutions under attack today by Satan? Is it because we have all strayed away from God? Is it we try to be God? Or can it be we feel we can do it alone without anyone!

 

Now the Lord God said, It is not good (sufficient, satisfactory) that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper (suitable, adapted, complementary) for him.

 

And out of the ground the Lord God formed every [wild] beast and living creature of the field and every bird of the air and brought them to Adam to see what he would call them; and whatever Adam called every living creature, that was its name.

And Adam gave names to all the livestock and to the birds of the air and to every [wild] beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found a helper meet (suitable, adapted, complementary) for him.

And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam; and while he slept, He took one of his ribs or a part of his side and closed up the [place with] flesh.

 

And the rib or part of his side which the Lord God had taken from the man He built up and made into a woman, and He brought her to the man.

 

Then Adam said, This [creature] is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of a man. 

 

Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and shall become united and cleave to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

 

And the man and his wife were both naked and were not embarrassed or ashamed in each other’s presence.(Genesis 2:18-25 AMP)

 

 

Whatever the reason is, feel free to elaborate on those questions, but I know from my experience working with brides, they become too caught up in the planning, instead of focusing on the marriage. The event is one day; whereas, the marriage is a lifetime. I have seen many engagements break up before the actual wedding because of the disagreements that came about in choosing things that truly were not that important to flare up about. It could have been a good reason also; because neither one was truly ready to begin a healthy and lasting relationship or mature enough to work together in the planning.

It is necessary to the relationship to receive spiritual counseling before any marriage takes place to ensure the man and wife "to be" can disagree in love and still come to an agreement that is beneficial to both. If one is adamant about living in Chicago and refuses to listen or allow the other person to talk who wants to live in Boston; there is still work to be done; don't get married. If one wants one child, and the other wants three, don't get married; because one of you will be disappointed and unhappy in the union.

 

Marriage was and still is sacred in the eyes of God, so before anyone wants to argue the fact, have a talk with Jesus before you comment; because He is still on the throne and ready to give you the answer, in love, of righteous and just living among a people who have severely gone astray, causing a generation to develop that is in jeopardy of receiving the Kingdom of Heaven!

Children are a Gift from God!

NEVER EVER HIT A CHILD OUT OF ANGER! These babies are no where near your size or strength. What gives a grown woman and man the right to harm an innocent defenseless child. If you are that angry then walk away, calm down and then come back to correct this child. If it is a crying baby, and you do not have the patience and love to understand babies cry when they are hungry, wet, or sick, then be responsible and quit having sex! It truly hurts when I continue to hear on the news of Mothers and Fathers, (who are not married either), killing a child because they were crying, or hungry, or woke them up in the middle of the night! I usually don't vent, but this situation tears at my heart!

"Beware that you do not despise or feel scornful toward or think little of one of these little ones, for I tell you that in heaven their angels always are in the presence of and look upon the face of My Father Who is in heaven" (Matthew 18:10 AMP)
 

 

Children are a gift from God; they are his reward. Children born to a young man are like sharp arrows to defend him.

Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. That man shall have the help he needs when arguing with his enemies."

(Psalm 127:3-5 TLB)

Remember anything you do unto a child that is detrimental, you do unto God. It is important to correct your children in love, but not abuse them or revoke them to anger! So if you are not man enough or woman enough to be a good parent, don't pro-recreate! If you were abused as a child and survived, please get spiritual help before you get in a relationship, because it will be very unhealthy as well as your parenting. If you did get pregnant and know in your heart you can't be a good Mother, put the baby up for adoption so someone can love them.

Abortions are not the answer, because you were careless knowing there could be a possibility of getting pregnant. I had an abortion and it took me a LONG time to get over that, so do not cop out in that area either! Ladies you have control over your body and it's time to stop the foolishness of trying to catch a cab, more or less that takes you places, but you end up no where!

GET SAVED, GET MARRIED, AND THEN HAVE BABIES!

I can't even put a picture on here of an abused child because it hurts so bad!

Try Me, Put me to the Test!

In the previous verse (v 9) of I Chronicles 4, Jabez's Mother gave him this name because she birthed him in pain; which translates “sorrow maker”! However, Jabez was the only one among his brothers who was honorable. Now honorable has many synonyms; but the proper word to use is "righteous" because Christians are familiar with its meaning.
 

Jabez did not want to carry the burden his name meant throughout his life; so he went to God in prayer that His blessings be upon him ~ and God responded with a “yes”! There is nothing more powerful than God's blessings that are placed upon those who love Him. God already loves all of us unconditionally; but to love Him, is to feed the hungry, clothe the poor, love the unloving, shelter the homeless, and daily seek God for guidance and direction to set out daily to love the way He loves, give without wanting anything in return, and pray in all circumstances without ceasing! God hears our prayers and will grant our request! Righteous living is to be in right standing with God!

To be blessed by God is to be protected, in good health, and favor in all that we encounter and do!

Do You REALLY Know?

I was in JC Penney a few years ago just browsing and this woman passed me calling a little girl who was in the shoe section to come on, she was ready to leave. The little girl quickly grabbed a specific pair of shoes and walked over to her, pleading for the shoes. Well being social, I commented they were very cute shoes and would look good on her. The Grandmother proceeded with, “She has more than enough shoes at home and although they are cute, we are not buying them”. The little girl begged for a short while and realized she was not going to win this battle, so the shoes went back to the shoe department.

As the little girl was leaving, her Grandmother began telling me how she provides for the child quite often and her daughter (the child's Mother) do not have a good relationship. She badly berated her daughter to the point I said in my mind, “God should I pray for this woman”; because from listening to her story, I felt the relationship could not continue is this manner, and with prayer, God could heal both of them to mend all hurt and pain between them. I immediately heard from God and He said, “There are two sides to this story”. I understood exactly what He was saying. This woman was not telling the truth; and to form an opinion about the situation without knowing only her half; was sorely unfair to her daughter. So I politely dismissed myself from the situation to go shopping.

How many of us quickly form an opinion and pass judgment on someone just by listening to that person berate someone else? I already know the percentage is high; because very few people are truly Christ-like in their character. Do you know the other person well enough to form an opinion? Have you formed a relationship yourself with that person and know their character? Has that person personally harmed you in anyway to dislike them? And even if they have, we are to still forgive! I first want to remind you of this: Jesus is the ONLY one who has that Authority and Power to judge, and He judges justly and fairly, with a deep love for all of us – and forgiveness. NEVER be quick to judge anyone, even if you do know their story; it's not the character God wants us to have, nor practice!

But love your enemies and be kind and do good [doing favors so that someone derives benefit from them] and lend, expecting and hoping for nothing in return but considering nothing as lost and despairing of no one; and then your recompense (your reward) will be great (rich, strong, intense, and abundant), and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind and charitable and good to the ungrateful and the selfish and wicked. So be merciful (sympathetic, tender, responsive, and compassionate) even as your Father is [all these]. Judge not [neither pronouncing judgment nor subjecting to censure], and you will not be judged; do not condemn and pronounce guilty, and you will not be condemned and pronounced guilty; acquit and forgive and release (give up resentment, let it drop), and you will be acquitted and forgiven and released. (Luke 6:35-37 AMP)

Remember when you point one finger at one person, ten are pointing back at you! So strive to obtain Christ-like character. Take time to build a relationship with God, so you can have healthy relationships, as well as discernment.

Over There, Shall I See My Reward!

Life is going to have trials and tribulations, good and bad, ups and downs, as well as likes and dislikes. Is it easy to walk away when a loved one's addiction is not improving as you would like? Is it really easy to disown a parent, child, or sibling because they are hanging out with the wrong crowd? You ask yourself those questions and you also are the one who has to live with the consequences.

God said he did not promise us that life would be easy, but He did promise He would be with us always – even to the ends of time! “And then teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you; and be sure of this—that I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”

(Matthew 28:20)

Me, my Son and his family with my parents. He received a promotion 
that moved him far away. It is God's blessing for 
him to improve his life and family's life! Prayer has made that happen!

Yes it is disheartening to see a loved one suffer, struggle, and even take a wrong turn on the path to destruction. Look at it this way, it's just a detour that will eventually lead them on the road to success! The success I'm talking about is freedom from drugs, gangs, sexual impurity, a quarreling marriage, and even the parent who values work over their family. That in itself is a success worthy of celebration! Cherish the moments you have with those you hold dear to your heart; and never turn you back on them.

 

All of us reading this have struggled ourselves with something that is wrong and not pleasing in God's eyes (sin), so when you were going through the fire, ALWAYS remember someone was praying for you! God NEVER turns His back on us, even when we are deep in that valley! I love when God says:

 

“For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed”. (Malachi 3:6 KJV)

Which means even in our mess, God's love for us is still just as strong as it is when we are on the righteous path! We too should be Christ-like and change not our hearts! Continue to love that person in the midst of their storms. No you are not powerful enough to change them, BUT YOUR PRAYER IS! NEVER cease praying when things get better either; because Satan, the adversary, steps in and WILL cause destruction. As scripture says:

“Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour”. (I Peter 5:8 AMP)

Being sober of mind, means you are at rest (peace of heart) at all times, because you are secure in who you are and whose you are; with ultimate Trust in God to deliver that loved one out of that deep pit of despair! So stay in prayer through trials and tribulations, good and bad, ups and downs, as well as likes and dislikes! Miracles happen every day, some are just not noticeable to the naked eye! It is our rightful duty as a true Christian; whereas, your reward will be in Heaven ~ which is your forever home!

Do You Really Trust Me?

"Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength."

by Corrie ten Boom

25 “So my counsel is: Don’t worry about things—food, drink,  and clothes. For you already have life and a body—and they are  far more important than what to eat and wear.  26 Look at the birds! They don’t worry about what  to eat—they don’t need to sow or  reap or store up food—for your heavenly Father feeds them.  And you are far more valuable to him than they are. 27 Will all  your worries add a single moment to your life? 28 “And why worry about your clothes? Look at the  field lilies! They don’t worry about theirs. 29 Yet  King Solomon in all his glory was not clothed as beautifully  as they. 30 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers  that are here today and gone tomorrow, won’t he more  surely care for you, O men of little faith? 31-32 “So don’t worry at all about having enough food and   clothing. Why be like the heathen? For they take pride in all   these things and are deeply concerned about them. But your   heavenly Father already knows perfectly well that you need  them, 33 and he will give them to you if you give him first  place in your life and live as he wants you to. 34 “So don’t be anxious about tomorrow. God will take care of  your tomorrow too. Live one day at a time. (Matthew 6:25-34 TLB)

One of the most widely used word today is “worry”! Spoken words such as: “I'm worried we will not have enough money to pay the bills”! Why didn't you call, I was worried”! "The doctor found a spot on my lungs, and wants to do more test. Don't worry though" And then we – “worry”! Or; "My wedding ring just fell down the drain"! All of these examples, have happened to many of us. Constant focus on a thing or problem, magnifies it! We can focus on a good thing or a bad thing, either way, you get an unwanted outcome, or an answered prayer! 

                                                                     

                                                                                                                        Miles a day old! 2015

This is how our outer appearance can fool the public

because I was waiting, in 2015 for my 4th grandchild,

which is my daughter's 2nd child, to be born.

She was having a cesarean; whereas, it was taking too 

long for me. I quickly remembered to pray! Thank God

I did, because she had lost quite a lot of blood; but God 

sustained her enough to eliminate a blood transfusion!

Amen!

Those who choose to worry, do not realize, it carries with them everywhere they go! Notice the emotions that show on someones face in the grocery store, standing in line at a ball game, or walking through the mall. Although some are busy doing something, their mind is fixed on that problem that they feel is worth worrying about.

Approach someone in that state of mind, gently, and watch their reaction! They will either jump, because they were startled out of that worry hypnosis, or they will ignore you because they are deeply hypnotized with “worry”; they block all things out of sight and sound! 

Why do we worry? Is it because we feel we are in control, or can somehow worry enough, the issue at hand will miraculously fix itself? I'm not sure either, but I do know that when we worry, we are telling God, we do not trust Him to do what it is, He said He would do; which is:

Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you. (I Peter 5:7 TLB)

Now how do we let God have all our worries? By daily prayer and fellowship with Him; which is reading the Bible! God has an answer to every concern you will ever face in life, in the Bible! Now change that worry to Trust, that transfers to “Peace”!

Dressed to Impress!

No, I am not an expert on relationships, but God is. I'm positive, the direction here is husband and wife relationships; because there are numerous relationships that fall under the relationship category. We have working relationships, friendships, Mother and child relationship, Father and child relationship, siblings, and the most important, a relationship with Christ!

 

That's a good question for you to ask yourself while you are reading this? What is your relationship with Christ? Keep that question in mind as I resume with the subject at hand ~  "A husband and wife relationship”.
 

                                                                    My Daughter and Son-in Law 2014

 

All relationships take work, commitment, and “love”! I put love in parenthesis because, we all view love as a feeling instead of an action! Feelings are never to be put at the forefront of anything; because they are fickle. Think about it, our emotions can change like the wind! Most feelings are birthed from our own selfish desires! How can we remove self out of the way, and be joined with “us” or “we”?

 

Good question! We can't; because all of us are born sinners! We all come in this world demanding, wanting; with manipulation, lies, and deceit! All of these behaviors are our natural carnal instinct! In other words, they are natural born to us! I know many of you have heard, “We all are born sinners”! Well that's why!

 

Therefore, as sin came into the world through one man, and death as the result of sin, so death spread to all men, [no one being able to stop it or to escape its power] because all men sinned. (Romans 5:12 AMP)

 

If you will recall, because of one man's sin, it passed down through all generations – and the man many will recognize is Adam. When Adam and Eve allowed the serpent to deceive them in the Garden of Eden, all of what Satan is was handed down to us; deceit, lying, manipulation, deadly diseases, sexual sin, homosexuality, control, anger, hate, covetousness (which is the desires of what others have), jealousy ~ whew, I am going to stop, because the list goes on, and could take up too much of your time, and mine! That's what Satan's intention is also! He blind sides you into thinking, “You have no hope”! And you don't, when you don't know better or know there is a better way!

 

A good and healthy relationship, first, begins with commitment. Am I committed to this union? Will I sacrifice hanging out with my friends, when my spouse or child is sick? Will I give them my all (100%) of me; or will I conceal only part of who I am, and give the good of me to others? What is it that you are honestly afraid of? Afraid of being hurt? Afraid of rejection, when you pour out your all? Perhaps, you are afraid of being taken advantage of? "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind". (II Timothy 1:7 KJV)  

All of us have experienced one or more of the questions asked, and survived. The questions is, how will I respond to being rejected, hurt, being taken advantage of; or sacrificing so-called friends for family? Do you respond in fear, which produces anger; or in love and respect; which keeps the peace and harmony in the household! Remember it takes two to argue!

 

If you are not committed to God, you will not be committed to anything or anyone! That's why I first mentioned commitment. Once you establish a relationship with Christ, He gives you everything else you need; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control! (Galatians 5:22-23 TLB) It's what produces when the Holy Spirit is in you ~ The Fruit of the Spirit!

 

That's why it is necessary to be born again! When you are baptized in water, the symbolism of being dunked under (dying of the old self, the sinful you), to be raised with Christ, when you are brought up, (the symbolism of being born again in the Spirit)!

 

¹¹ When you came to Christ, he set you free from your evil desires, not by a bodily operation of circumcision but by a spiritual operation, the baptism of your souls. ¹² For in baptism you see how your old, evil nature died
with him and was buried with him; and then you
came up out of death with him into a new life
because you trusted the Word of the mighty God
who raised Christ from the dead.
¹³ You were dead in sins, and your sinful desires were
not yet cut away. Then he gave you a share in the
very life of Christ, for he forgave all your sins.
(Colossians 2:11-13 TLB) 

 

As I mentioned previously relationships take work. So in order to establish a lasting relationship with Christ, it will take “work”; and a will to want to! Once you are baptized, there is still work to be done in you and through you! You thought the change happened over night, didn't you? Nope, that's when the change begins. It's like a sculptor who chips away at a piece of hardened clay little by little to form it into a beautiful piece of art or masterpiece of artwork! God begins to gently and lovingly remove Satan's strongholds. Some of it is easy for you to let go, and other things will be a struggle. Although everything God does is good and excellent; yet we still fear the unfamiliar!

Each sculpting tool has a unique function to mold the clay, and 
necessary to complete the masterpiece!

So how does this strengthen a marriage between a husband and wife? God's love is perfect! It has no beginning and no end! He does not put any conditions on us to love us! It is undying, eternal, and everlasting!

 

We cannot say that; because we do put conditions on others to love them. We put too many expectations on them, we ourselves do not do, and judge with a malice heart and soul! We focus on things about that person that disgusts us, more than the things that pleases us! We point out their faults, and defend our own! We allow a friend to be treated with respect and come home and disrespect our husband/wife and children; and we ignore their utmost needs ~ which is your friendship, trust, and commitment!

 

If you do not have a relationship with Christ, you will never have a healthy relationship with anyone! It's that simple!

 

This is the message God has given us to pass on to you: that God is Light and in him is no darkness at all. So if we say we are his friends but go on living in spiritual darkness and sin, we are lying. But if we are living in the light of God’s presence, just as Christ does, then we have wonderful fellowship and joy with each other, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from every sin. (I John 1:5-7 TLB)

 

God is love! He loves perfectly and without asking anything of you! So to love your spouse perfectly, seek Christ daily, who loves you perfectly, so you can love your spouse the way Christ loves you! Amen!

Maintain or Gain!

Roughly about 5 years ago, I was diagnosed with Graves disease. For those of you who don't know what that is, it is a severely overactive or under-active thyroid (I had overactive; which decreases your weight); that if not detected and treated can cause death. The thyroid hormone, as small as it is, has many functions to keep your body working properly. One of them is our metabolism.

Me and my son in 2009. I was 141 lbs.

After extensive years and months of working out, eating properly (which is a lifestyle change), and reaping the benefits, my thyroid came into existence just when I was at a comfortable weight, and happily maintained it for at least 3 years.

Over a 3 year period, (sounds familiar, but I lost it in 3 years and maintained it for an additional 3 years) with some obstacles along the way, I went from 178 lbs. to 141 lbs. Sounds easy enough, but it wasn't. My first year of losing weight, I lost 15 lbs. and maintained that weight for over a year, until I completed school. The second year, I lost 10 lbs. and kept that off, in addition to the 15 lbs., so within two years I lost a total of 25 lbs. That left me with 11 lbs. to my goal weight. So I increased my exercises, and practically starved myself, until I ask God what foods would be good for my body. Once I received that information, I gladly began cooking and eating the foods God chose for me. Little did I know, that everything God instructed me to eat was healthy for my thyroid also. On the list was spinach, fresh fish, almonds, fresh peaches, mango, grapes, apricots and eggs. There's more, but you get the idea. I didn't know I was already eating the foods beneficial for my thyroid, ; until I researched Graves disease! Yes, God is "All Knowing"! 

                                                                         Me currently, with my daughter, 2 of my 

                                                                                   Grandchildren and Son-in-law

Now to continue where I left off, the exercise increased as well. I went from walking a mile to speed walking 3 miles, running up and down the bleachers at a local high school track, and getting up at 5:30 am, 5 days a week to do aerobics on the exercise channel. The combination of the three, allowed me to look and feel better; and establish tremendous health. My health is still currently good; which I give God all the credit!

Well, over two years ago, I had a setback on jobs and my thyroid. I was eating and working out the same, but my weight kept increasing; my overactive thyroid, became severely under-active ~ a decrease in my metabolism. Within 7 months, my weight increased from 141 lbs. up to 171 lbs. Yes, I was devastated. I had gained 30 lbs. that quick! Who knew that could happen ~ I'm going to say, I didn't!

Being unemployed did not help my situation any either. I had no insurance and very little income to purchase my thyroid pills. Thanks to President Obama, I was able to qualify for H.I.P. After the doctor's visits, he reprimanded me and said; "Never let your weight get that high again, because it is hard to lose".  I had, again, two obstacles, no insurance, and unemployed. I didn't let that deter me though, because I know, it is next to impossible with me, but with God NOTHING is impossible. So I ask God to help me.

Recently, I posted a 2017 New Year's resolution blog, It is below: 

Do you have a New Year's Resolution? Here are a few I have heard for years:
 

I am going to start exercising and lose weight.

I am going to spend less and save more.

I am going get my house in order and keep it that way.

 

It's good to have goals and aspirations; however, none of us stick to them.

 

Try this:
 

God help me to lose weight, because I cannot do it alone!

God help me to be smart with money to have a balance of spending, saving, and giving.

God help me to have the spirit of organization, not just in my home, but in my thoughts, so I can have peace!

 

Now if you tried it in your strength, it's time to let God take over and give you His strength to succeed!

 

"We have not because we ask not" (James 4:2 TLB)

Now, after writing this and struggling with my yo-yo weight, I practiced what I preached. God heard my request, but He had me do something that puzzled me a bit. God had me adjust when I take my thyroid pills. I had been taking them, since I started my medication, in the mornings when I get up; which is anywhere from 5 am to 6 am. It didn't make sense to me, but I jumped on board. Thyroid pills are to be taken 4 hours after a meal, or on an empty stomach when you wake up. It makes more sense to take them in the morning, because most people sleep anywhere from 6 to 8 hours! Nope, God requested I take my Thyroid pill at 9 pm daily. That meant, I had to quit eating after 5 pm and could not eat again, until 10 pm ~ 4 hours after eating, and I can eat one hour after I take the pill.

This is me 6 yrs. ago, my 50th birthday party with my Sister and daughter

After God re-directed the time and hour I take my thyroid pill, nothing more was said. The first night I stopped eating for 4 hours, I caught myself reaching for the red hots, or a bag of chips, or a slice of cheese and crackers. I'm not going to mention anything else; because if you haven't caught wind of my sloppy eating habits, you will soon.

God, first, had to show me where my extra weight was coming from, what I was doing wrong, and teach me to drink more water, juices and herbal tea, than I was. It took me 3 weeks to get it, but I did not give in or give up. It was the best way for me to notice my poor eating habits; and not to put the total blame on my thyroid! I'm so glad He did this, because there is no excuse in losing weight! It just takes the will to want to and be determined!

 

It took some adjusting, but I'm there! Now the exercising. No, exercising does not give me grief. I am looking forward to doing it; because I have reaped the benefits before. I'm not sure what my weight is now, but I will guess, I have lost approximately 3 lbs. in 3 weeks. Not bad!

 

Keep in mind, we are all different. What works for me, might not work for you, so again, “Ask God for help”! It will be tailor made for you and your lifestyle.

 

What I gained from God that has helped me is, eat when you are hungry, not because the food is there; and always keep water with you, and a piece of fruit for those out of the way trips that get you off schedule. IT WORKS!