Sistas Saving Sistas
For Christ II
But God!
“And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you.” Joel 2:25
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
God consistently shows his faithfulness towards us. One story in particular that comes to mind when I think about God’s redemption of disorder in my life is when my wife and I were separated and headed for divorce. My wife left me and was determined to get a divorce. Our son was only a year old at the time. I did not understand how the woman I loved so deeply could just walk away from it all.
I tried everything to win her back, but nothing worked. Eventually I gave up and I decided to give her what she really wanted by filing for divorce. Can you believe the day before our final divorce papers came, she called me to reconcile our marriage? The Holy Spirit had been speaking to her and working on her heart about our marriage.
We both became saved right after we got back together. And God called us to counsel other married couples and to teach Marriage Ministry. God not only brought order to our lives, but He brought order to our home, our marriage and our spiritual lives. The scripture He gave us was Joel 2:25 which states, ““And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you.”
There was another time, when I was out of work with a wife and kids. I began to argue with God about what He promised in His word about my situation which was, “My God shall supply all your need according to His riches and glory by Christ Jesus.” I was angry with Him because I felt He had yet to keep His word. We needed His help and we needed it right away! Why hadn’t he showed up! Well, the very next day I was called to interview for a position. Not only did I go for the interview, but I got the job the same day. Through it all, God remained faithful to His word! He brought order to our financial and my mental situation.
A third time I witnessed God’s provision is when I had been praying for an SUV. My wife kept trying to talk me into getting a particular make and model. She talked to me about the benefits of getting the vehicle and how good the reviews were. I wanted to wait to purchase and make sure the timing was right. I was just not sure about the payments.
One day I was on my way to my oldest daughter’s birthday party and a woman hit my car from out of nowhere. Both airbags deployed and my vehicle was totaled. I had some pain, so I was taken to the hospital. After I finally received the check to purchase a new vehicle, I had one day to return in my rental vehicle. I had issues with my credit, but we went to the dealership, and we were approved through a different credit union that we do not have an account with. But God!
I drove off the lot in my dream car and the timing was perfect. I needed to get something to get to work and to get home the next day. These experiences have consistently taught me to trust God despite what I see. The situation may seem hopeless, but we have a God of hope.
Take care till next time
Minister Washington
Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?”
God's Love
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
God draws us to Himself with His great love for the Son which transcends to us. When we realize this great love and what it has done for us, we can’t help but reciprocate this same love for the Father. God, the Father revealed His great love for us in what He did through His, Son, Jesus on the cross. “There is no greater love than a man would lay down his life for a friend.” John 15:13 Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Our love for the Father began or is an extension of His profound and enduring love for us, Jeremiah says, “The Lord appeared to me (Israel) from ages past, saying, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.” He reveals Himself to His children through the love He showers upon them. There is nothing more beautiful and relatable than the love of our Heavenly father.
John 4:7-21 says, “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.”
When we experience the Fathers love we become receptacles of His love and in turn disperse His great love to others. There are some who turn from God’s love and beauty and began to look inwardly where the focus is on themselves. When our focus inwardly we no longer look upward and outward. We become selfish instead of selfless and this attitude in no way can reflect the love of the Father. Instead of us worshipping the Creator we began to worship the created. And ultimately, we no longer take on the likeness of the Creator but we most resemble what we now worship, the created. Deuteronomy 6:5 says, “And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” When we choose to dwell and walk in the love and presence of God we will worship the Lord thy God with all that is within us. We will no longer worship the things of this world. These things will become meaningless. He will take first place in our lives. Matthew 6:33 says, “"But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you” When we become selfish we no longer shine from within because our relationship with Christ has been broken, our deep fellowship has been tainted and we no longer walk in the beauty that generates to us when we dwell in His presence. We are beautified in His presence. Apart from His love and presence we resemble something that is moldy and lifeless. We have no shine or glister. We walk in peace.
Our natural sinful bent is tilted towards focusing on us. But when we choose to remain in His love we bend towards His likeness. It is similar to a husband and wife in the natural sense that as we spend more time with our spouse, we resemble them. We do some of the same things and act the same or express ourselves in the same way. Well the more we spend time with God we resemble Him. Afterall, we are the Bride of Christ in the spiritual sense. God has to untwist us, our way of thinking or our bend towards ourselves. He molds us into becoming outward looking and more outgoing. We look to the needs of others and not the wants and desires of ourselves. We look to what His desires are and not to our own desires. We turn from the sinful way of being lovers to ourselves but lovers to God and others. He challenges our self-love by His Spirit and through His word.
He exemplifies His great love for us by keeping His promises. The Spirit’s desire is for us to know His son. He wants our intimacy with Him. Paul traded the things of the world so that He could focus on knowing Christ to the fullest. Philippians 3:7-11 says, “But whatever things were gain to me, these things I have counted as loss because of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, [e]for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them mere rubbish, so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; if somehow I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.”
Charles Surgeon said Knowing God is life” Brothas and Sistas, there is nothing greater than knowing Him and how He operates in and through us and how His operates in the world. When we know Him we exuberate the peace of God. John 14:27 says “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” When we look to our Father we are filled with life and peace. There is no reason to fear. The Holy Spirit desires for us to turn to Jesus. We only find true happiness in Christ and living for Him. Our greatest desire should be to know Him, to know the love of God through Christ, Jesus. Ephesians 3:14-19 says, “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
As we spend time in the love and presence of God we will be established in His love so that we may show others His love. His love surpasses any knowledge that mere man could ever fathom. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” God draws us to Himself with His great love for the Son which transcends to us. When we realize this great love and what it has done for us, we can’t help but reciprocate this same love for the Father. God, the Father revealed His great love for us in what He did through His, Son, Jesus on the cross. “There is no greater love than a man would lay down his life for a friend.” John 15:13 Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Our love for the Father began or is an extension of His profound and enduring love for us, Jeremiah says, “The Lord appeared to me (Israel) from ages past, saying, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.” He reveals Himself to His children through the love He showers upon them. There is nothing more beautiful and relatable than the love of our Heavenly father.
John 4:7-21 says, “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.”
When we experience the Fathers love we become receptacles of His love and in turn disperse His great love to others. There are some who turn from God’s love and beauty and began to look inwardly where the focus is on themselves. When our focus inwardly we no longer look upward and outward. We become selfish instead of selfless and this attitude in no way can reflect the love of the Father. Instead of us worshipping the Creator we began to worship the created. And ultimately, we no longer take on the likeness of the Creator but we most resemble what we now worship, the created. Deuteronomy 6:5 says, “And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” When we choose to dwell and walk in the love and presence of God we will worship the Lord thy God with all that is within us. We will no longer worship the things of this world. These things will become meaningless. He will take first place in our lives.
Matthew 6:33 says, “"But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you” When we become selfish we no longer shine from within because our relationship with Christ has been broken, our deep fellowship has been tainted and we no longer walk in the beauty that generates to us when we dwell in His presence. We are beautified in His presence. Apart from His love and presence we resemble something that is moldy and lifeless. We have no shine or glister. We walk in peace.
Our natural sinful bent is tilted towards focusing on us. But when we choose to remain in His love we bend towards His likeness. It is similar to a husband and wife in the natural sense that as we spend more time with our spouse, we resemble them. We do some of the same things and act the same or express ourselves in the same way. Well the more we spend time with God we resemble Him. Afterall, we are the Bride of Christ in the spiritual sense.
God has to untwist us, our way of thinking or our bend towards ourselves. He molds us into becoming outward looking and more outgoing. We look to the needs of others and not the wants and desires of ourselves. We look to what His desires are and not to our own desires. We turn from the sinful way of being lovers to ourselves but lovers to God and others. He challenges our self-love by His Spirit and through His word. He exemplifies His great love for us by keeping His promises. The Spirit’s desire is for us to know His son. He wants our intimacy with Him. Paul traded the things of the world so that He could focus on knowing Christ to the fullest. Philippians 3:7-11 says, “But whatever things were gain to me, these things I have counted as loss because of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, [e]for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them mere rubbish, so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; if somehow I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.”
Charles Surgeon said, “Knowing God is life” (page 93) There is nothing greater than knowing Him and how He operates in and through us and how His operates in the world. When we know Him we exuberate the peace of God. John 14:27 says “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” When we look to our Father we are filled with life and peace. There is no reason to fear. The Holy Spirit desires for us to turn to Jesus. We only find true happiness in Christ and living for Him.
Our greatest desire should be to know Him, to know the love of God through Christ, Jesus. Ephesians 3:14-19 says, “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
As we spend time in the love and presence of God we will be established in His love so that we may show others His love. His love surpasses any knowledge that mere man could ever fathom. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”John 3:16
Love,
Michelle
For Better or For Worse
"So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate." Matthew 19:6
Good morning to you both,
Brothas and Sistas, as we seek to understand the marital vows let's look at the vows concerning "for better or for worse". Brothas and Sistas, what does for better or for worse mean to you. “For better or for worse” is a commitment by the marriage partners to rise-up together against those things that would threaten the marriage covenant relationship such as attraction for/from someone of the opposite sex towards a marriage partner, dealing with rebellious children, blended family conflict, etc.,
Believe it or not, there are some things that we just need to have enough spiritual gumption or perseverance to work through. Brothas and Sistas, it is never an option to bail out at the first sign of trouble or conflict. The Christian life calls us to a life of perseverance and commitment. We must learn the importance of prayer and trusting God when it comes to conflict in our marriages.
The Bible presents marriage as a divine institution. If marriage were of human origin, then human beings would have a right to decide the kind of marital relationships to choose. Marriage, however, began with God. It was established by God at the beginning of human history when He "created the heavens and the earth" (Gen 1:1). As the Creator of marriage, God has the right to tell us which principles should govern our marital relationships.
Commitment is a mindset, an attitude and a way of thinking that will enable you and your spouse to navigate through the still waters and the storms of a marriage relationship. Charles Swindoll (Strike the Original Match) compares working on marriage to remodeling a house:
It takes longer than you planned It costs more than you figured It is messier than you anticipated It requires greater determination than you expected.
Sometimes the only thing that keeps us going is hope! Now Brothas and Sistas, there may be some of you asking the question: What if I am involved in an abusive marriage or a marriage where my spouse continues to commit adultery? Brothas and Sistas, let's make it clear it is never healthy to remain in a relationship with someone that is consistently abusive or commits adultery without genuine repentance. We are not giving you advice to divorce your spouse if this is occurring in your relationship because that is a decision that has to be Spirit led and it is your decision to make.
On the other hand, we have witnessed spouses being told that they are bound by their marital vows to stay in a marriage even when they have been victims of domestic violence and adultery. They have been made to feel guilty by being consistently reminded that they are called by God to forgive and love unconditionally regardless of how many times their spouse breaks the marital vows.
Brothas and Sistas, does “for better or for worse” mean that you are married for life — regardless of the violations committed against you in the marriage? The answer is No! Nor has it ever meant that. As we have said before, in counseling sessions some spouses have been told that they are called by God to maintain a relationship with someone even when he or she is repeatedly destructive toward them. In other words, "For better or worse."
But is that counsel truly biblical? Are we ever permitted to end a relationship or distance ourselves from someone because of their unchanged sinful behavior? God's love for humankind is unconditional but he does not offer anyone unconditional relationship. He tells us that our sin separates us from him and that without repentance we have no fellowship with him (1 John 1:6). Our sin does not separate us from God’s love (Romans 5:8) but it does separate us from his presence (Isaiah 59:1-2). Jesus distanced himself from certain religious leaders because he didn’t trust them. He knew what was in their heart (John 2:24).
Throughout much of the Old Testament, God withdraws his presence from his people because of unrepentant sin. God calls people to a covenant relationship that is like a marriage. He not only wants us to enjoy his love, he wants us to love him back (Deuteronomy 6:5). He not only promises us his faithfulness, he requires that we be faithful in return (Deuteronomy 4:23-24). The book of Hosea is a picture of God’s love for his unfaithful spouse (Israel). He longs for her, but his relationship with her will remain broken until she is willing to change.
http://www.leslievernick.com/pdfs/IS-Marriage-SUPPOSED-to-be-for-Better-or-for-Worse-FR.pdf
In this sinful world there is no perfect person and in every relationship there is some brokenness and suffering. That’s why Jesus tells us that when someone sins against us, we are to go and talk to that person so that we can be reconciled. However, he also adds, if they refuse to hear you after you have repeatedly tried to get them to listen, "treat them as you would a pagan and a tax collector" (Matthew 18:15-17). Jesus says, if there is no repentance, the relationship you once had changes. Pagans and tax collectors were not trusted, nor were they friends, although a good Jew would help a pagan or tax collector who was in need, fulfilling the biblical mandate to love one’s enemy. http://www.leslievernick.com/pdfs/IS-Marriage-SUPPOSED-to-be-for-Better-or-for-Worse-FR.pdf
In conclusion, when dealing with the marital vows, "For better or for worse" let's ask ourselves, "Am I responding to these vows God's way or my way?" Brothas, and Sistas, in order for us to have successful marriages we must respond to these vows in a godly way even when conflict arises. Until next time. Take care.
Minister Antonio and Sista Michelle Washington
Prayer of Faith
Dear Lord,
We praise your great name for the spouses that you have blessed us with. We realize that you have joined us together and for this we are so grateful. Please continue to bless our marriages. Help us to honor you by continuing to love the ones that we are with. May we always honor the marital vows that we made toward our spouses. We pray all these things in your praiseworthy name, Jesus. Amen.
Tea Time With Tabby
A Brew of Purpose and Fulfillment
Ephesians 4:1 "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received."
Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Proverbs 19:21 "Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails."
Isaiah 14:24 "The LORD Almighty has sworn, “Surely, as I have planned, so it will be, and as I have purposed, so it will happen."
Isaiah 14:27 "For the LORD Almighty has purposed, and who can thwart him? His hand is stretched out, and who can turn it back?"
Colossians 3:16 "Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. stretched out, and who can turn it back?"
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I pray that the Lord awoke you today understanding that He has a purpose and Joy for your day and life no matter the struggles that we must encounter in this day we have been gifted. May we Pray. Lord, I thank you for another day for another chance to be your light and messenger. I pray that you will walk before, beside, and behind and guide my every step, thought and word as I go into and through this day.
Let's head over to the Grand Brew Masters Table and have a cup tea with Him this morning and share in His word and purpose and plans for each of us today.
As I awoke today He reminded me to go to the cupboard and seek out the Brew that He had intended for me to share with you today. He revealed to me that it’s important that I focus on the positive, while there is plenty of worry and stress, He has blessed each of us greatly with a Purpose and that we must seek the joy and Gratitude that can flow from such a high Purpose.
Recently I have changed roles and responsibilities at my job, I love the company I work for. Are we perfect? Far from it, but for the first time in my professional life and I have been in this career field for over 30yrs, I feel truly appreciated and that I fully belong. I can’t fully explain how much this means to me as a person who has always felt like I was just on the outside of acceptance in nearly all life circumstances. In my family I am the odd one out, labeled the emotional one, the relationships catastrophe one, the too hard mom etc.…. In my professional life I have always felt less than as I don’t have a degree and I have always had peers with degrees, supervised people with degrees, and doubted my full ability to measure up. Any of this sound familiar?
In the past year God has put me in my heart and mind a new sense of courage to challenge these beliefs in many ways. I still struggle with many but in my professional life He has empowered me and surrounded me with His chosen people to encourage me to break those chains of lies. To really push myself to question and challenge the lies and deceit of the Evil One. To seek Him and squash the self-doubt if only long enough to pursue one new career goal at a time and truly to seek out His given Purpose for me in my professional life.
I must be honest hear this was scary for me, but He kept on pouring this brew daily in my heart each time that there was an opportunity for advancement that He already saw me in and saw the good and the success He had planned for me in it. So, 2 years ago I took that, and I tried, and I failed. No, I was not awarded, the promotion was given to another. All the self-doubt and self-consciousness crept right back into my heart and mind. Yet He kept on pouring this brew and telling me not to sip the lies of deceit.
Once again, this same opportunity presented itself again, He again encouraged me and this time He added some extra sugar, and milk to my Tea, to encourage, and entice me to sip a bit more and to seek His Purpose and His way toward this new opportunity. So this time I sought Him with even great intentionality, and followed His lead and guidance and that of those He put in my path. This time the outcome was much different, I did get the new job. Then each day following He blessed me with new challenges and opportunities to prove myself worthy. Now one would think I would finally believe I was worthy of this role since He clearly orchestrated my success. Sadly, I must admit that old lies crept in and that old enemy of self-doubt moved back into my heart and mind. Now this time his residency was not as impactful, as I had learned some of the lessons that had been provided. I am so very glad to say that its influence was not as strong anymore, and for this I must praise Him with Gratitude and humbleness.
Fast forward another year, and a new opportunity presents itself at work for even greater influence and advancement, yet my soul was so very hesitant. I felt so much anxiousness and at the same time pressure from many to seek out this new role. They were all well intentioned people who thought that I was allowing the Evil Ones' influence guide and control my expectations and abilities to be successful and accepted and considered for this new opportunity. So I went before our Lord and sought Him and His wisdom and guidance, and in the end decided that this is not what He Purposed or planned for me. Many were surprised and many were disappointed in my decision, but I knew it wasn’t His Purpose for me, so I chose to be Grateful for His discernment.
Now one may think the story ends here, but our God is much bigger than this!!! Within weeks of this discerning choice that was prayerfully considered and determined not to be for me He revealed His True Purpose and plan for my obedience and trust in Him. A new opportunity opened at my current company, one that I was so excited about and one that I am happy to say I was accepted and received. Since receiving this blessing, I cannot explain the Gratitude and sense of privilege and Purpose and Meaning and Blessing that I have been provided. This is not say that the enemy doesn’t come knocking, and doesn’t try to spoil the Brews of successful and fulfillment that I have in this new role as he does daily.
However, our God is so much bigger so much more than the Evil One could ever face. Our Lord has placed me with a Mentor, Supervisor, that knows Him, rejoices in Him, whose light for life and passion and Purpose are derived from Him. Our Lord has placed me in this safe place where I am prayerfully protected and encouraged and supported to be me. To allow my light and love of our Savior to shine daily. A place where I can fully explore the gifts and talents that He has poured into me to share and create, and encourage, bless, and grow others.
Brothers and Sisters, this Brew today is intended to remind us that God’s Purposes and Plans for us will always come to be. The road may be hard, and the road may have twists, detours, accidents, and delays. However, if we keep on drinking the Brew of seeking is Purpose with heart of Gratitude for the journey on the way to the land of our Good Purpose designed and intended for each of us individually He will see to that we arrive safely.
I pray that this Brew and my testimony will bless and encourage you to seek Him and trust Him, for his perfect Purpose for your life, and that you too will chose Gratitude along the way.
Love and Prayers till next week,
Tabby
The Adoption
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
The Christians identity is wrapped up in his/her union with Christ. Our connection to the vine is what
influences our worship, how we display Jesus in the world and in the marketplace, which ultimately influences our witness as the bride of Christ. As we live our lives in Christ, we don’t do so in our own strength, but we have to rely solely on Him. To be successful in this Christian life we must do as Jesus did and walk a life of total obedience to our Heavenly Father.
We have been adopted into the family of God. We are joint heirs with Christ eventhough Christ is the son of God. We too have an inheritance to all that Christ has inherited from the Father. Nothing can remove us from our position in Christ because we have been made to be joint heirs with Christ.
Our adoption is not in any way similar, to the adoption of the world. We have acquired a unique closeness, so close that it requires us to shed what we were born into to become who were redeemed to be and to obtain all that we were adopted into. We are required to lose our identity in the world to gain our identity in Christ. In exchange for our adoption, He wants us to not only give ourselves solely to Him but allow Him to remake and mold us into what He would only have us to be, a child of the Most High.
In the translation of the word adoption Paul uses the term that we have been transferred from one family to another. What a privilege it is to be not only transferred but transformed, made over, converted into. We have been received as the adopted sons and daughters of he King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Once sinners, now adopted heirs o the Heavenly Father. We share in the sonship of Christ. We get to cry “Abba Father” to the God of creation because we are His adopted sons and daughters.
“Nobody is born into this world a child of the family of God. We are born as children of wrath. The only way we enter into the family of God is by adoption, and that adoption occurs when we are united to God’s only begotten Son by faith. When by faith we are united with Christ, we are then adopted into that family of whom Christ is the firstborn.” ~ R.C. Spoul
https://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/18-christian-quotes-about-adoption/#ixzz7rHEGFMcs
Blessings,
Michelle
Let Jesus Carry You
Mt 11:28-30 "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (KJV)
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
I can remember when my children were little and I had to take them to the babysitters house. We had to walk from our apartment up this long hill to get to her house. My youngest son would get so tired that he would begin to slow down and I would carry him the rest of the way.
So often in our lives we go through times of testing and trial, the long and tiresome hill to victory becomes hard to maneuver and we feel so overwhelmed that we are not sure if we can take another step. It is at that moment we realize that we need to be carried in order to get to our destination. Whenever I began to feel like this I know the only one that can carry me and point me in the right direction is Jesus
I am reminded of the poem, “Footprints in the sand,” which states, “One night I dreamed a dream. I was walking along the beach with my Lord. Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, one belonging to me and one to my Lord.
When the last scene of my life shot before me I looked back at the footprints in the sand. There was only one set of footprints. I realized that this was at the lowest and saddest times of my life. This always bothered me and I questioned the Lord about my dilemma.
"Lord, You told me when I decided to follow You, You would walk and talk with me all the way. But I'm aware that during the most troublesome times of my life there is only one set of footprints. I just don't understand why, when I need You most, You leave me."
He whispered, "My precious child, I love you and will never leave you, never, ever, during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."
Brothas and Sistas we are never alone when we have Jesus as our travel companion. He is the only one willing to carry us through tough times on to victory. Don't try to do it alone. Let Him carry you!
Michelle
Prayer of Faith
Lord, treach us to lean into you more and realize the importance of allowing you to carry us when we are tired and overwhelmed. Your desire is to be with us in all that we go through to take us into the realm of victory. We love you more than ever for your faithfulness. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
God Loves Through Forgiveness
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Colossians 3:13 (NIV)
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Sometimes in life we find ourselves in precarious situations. Well, the other day I found myself in one. It all started with a conversation at my place of employment. I made a comment about the boss to another person at the job and guess what? The very next morning as I was entering my place of employment the boss asked me to come into her office. She pulled me aside to inquire into what I had spoken to the other person. Honestly, I didn't think much of it because it wasn't anything malicious or gossipy, just a comment about the environment.
After I returned home, I was very angry and wanted never to speak to the other person again. But God spoke to me saying, "If the comment had never been made, the other person couldn't have tried to use it against you. Watch how you use your mouth."
With that, I took my lumps, and repented for the indiscretion of my mouth. Afterward, negative thoughts of the other person kept bombarding my mind. I spent a couple of hours pushing them down, until I remembered that I had been forgiven and I could simply share the forgiveness with the other person.
Honestly, I didn't feel like being forgiving to someone who deliberately tried to get me into trouble. But I realized that forgiveness is not so much about the other person as it is about us letting go of bitterness and hostility. Although, it's not easy! It's a fight within your soul! However, we still must forgive.
Then I remembered why God loves forgiveness. It's because He loves us and if forgiveness were not used as a means of cleansing away our sinfulness, God would have no choice but to destroy us. Looking at forgiveness from God’s perspective helped me to forgive the other person, because if she ever needs me to help save her life, I can help her since I'm not holding any grudges or hostility towards her in my heart. All is well between her and I, in my heart because of the gift of forgiveness God has given to both of us.
When I returned to work the next day, I acted like nothing had ever happened. I could tell she was a little nervous because she kept trying to make conversation with me. Initially, I ignored her, but then I responded with a smile and a friendly reply to her comments. The young lady is in a crisis and I would rather be a help than a hinderance to her growth. Again, it’s not always easy to do the right thing, but it’s always the right thing to do.
Prayer:
Father, in the name of Jesus, please help me to let go of the anger I feel towards this person. And help me to remember that I am just as much at fault for my participation in the sin. Help me to forgive their faults just like you forgive mine. And help me to pray for them as I pray for myself, in love. Amen.
Just One More
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
"In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:10
I remember a story about a man who once said near the end of his dad’s life. One day he became very active and tried to get out of bed. Of course, he was too weak, and this man’s wife insisted that he get back in bed and she asked him why he was so persistent in getting out of bed and what he was trying to do? He replied, “Got to save one more for Jesus!!!
Got to save one more for Jesus………. Rick Warren’s Dad
God wants nothing more than Hs lost children found. Nothing matters more to God than this. Listen if you and I go in God’s love we can’t help but win them as we have seen so many others that have done that. You may be saying well I am not sure if I can do that. You can only give what is inside of you. If you must win your soul for Christ the salvation of God has to first (my brother’s and sister’s) win you over.
Listen the reason why evangelism is dying today is because many Christians do not have the zeal to win souls. The devotion to spreading the word of God should be our characteristic of a soul winner.
1.Father, may you give me the passion for winning souls.
2.Ask God to make you an influencer of the gospel.
3.Pray and ask God for the grace to model my lifestyle according to the scriptures.
4.Ask God to please, please take away every hindrance
of evangelism from my life.
5.Allow the Holy Spirit to empower, fulfil me with your confidence.
In the movie” Hacksaw Ridge” Private Doss became the first conscientious objector to be awarded the Medal of Honor for service above and beyond the call of duty during the Battle of Okinawa, the term conscientious objector means a person’s belief. You see on May 4, 1945 Private Doss helped rescue 75 wounded men including a few Japanese soldiers by lowering them down on the side of a cliff and treating their injuries with a special knot that he knew. But here is the exciting part, he miraculously had not been wounded and stayed in the fight with at that time was known as Company B. After the 75 or so souls Private Doss tried to prevent a grenade from blowing up his fellow soldiers that he tried to kick it away and it exploded causing 17 pieces of shrapnel to be embedded in his body along with the fact that he was shot in his left arm by a snipers bullet.
Listen as one who is willing to reach, “Just One More” you have to realize that God does things differently than what we think it should be. The children of Israel in Egypt. You see before God began to work on helping them, He made them begin to cry.
Their sighs and their cries came up to God, and He then stretched out His hand to deliver them. You had mothers weeping when their babies were being taken and thrown into the river, the young men bowing down under the cruel yoke of oppression, being lashed from the taskmasters. The whole nation crying unto the Lord to visit them and deliver them and the stories go on and on for so many.
We as Believers must learn the value of a soul. Did you know that one soul is more valuable than the whole world? The value of a soul corresponds to the value of life meaning it shows how you care for your own soul, It should motivate us to care for others. When it comes to “Just One More: Jesus shows us the way to reach them. Remember the Samaritan Woman
He said, “Go and sin no more.” It doesn’t matter the gender or the background, God’s mercy extends to all who have faith to believe.
Notice He didn’t cast her off because of what she was, we can’t predetermine someone’s reaction to the truth. We can’t cast certain ones off as worthless. We need to always be ready to give an answer never neglecting to tell someone the gospel of Jesus Christ or helping someone to overcome sin. Galatians 6:1-2-“Brother’s and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Ezekiel 33:8 “When I say unto the wicked, Oh Wicked man thou shalt surely die; if thou doesn’t speak to warn the wicked from his way. That wicked man shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I require of thine hand.”
As I close there is a difference my brothers and sisters when it comes to receiving an award. Because most people want the accolades which is an award for recognition given in honor of an achievement or a compensation a prize such as a purple heart that Doss received giving of himself to protect others. We should be looking toward the reward which is something given in return for a good thing done, a service rendered or some merit earned. Matthew 5:11-12, Jesus says “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Rewards are motivators, loyalty, steadfastness. There are 5 rewards that the bible teaches and they are:
1.Crown of Life
2.Incorruptible Crown
3.Crown of Righteousness
4.Crown of Glory
5.Crown of Rejoicing
So the next time you are given the breathe of life by God ask God to help you get “Just One More”
Blessings,
MInister Washington
Teatime with Tabby
A Brew of Needing to Learn Dependence Once Again
Psalm 25
Of David.
In you, LORD my God, I put my trust. I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause. ...
Psalm 71
In you, LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame. In your righteousness, rescue me and deliver me; turn your ear to me and save me. Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. ...
Romans 9:16
It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Colossians 2:8
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
Good morning, Brothers and Sisters, it has been some time since I have been here at our Lord’s table with you. May we pray? Lord, you awoke me today with this Brew on my heart and mind. I recognize that I have been awoken often and not headed your calling, and I ask for your forgiveness. I desire to do better to be better to share the truths and the struggles as well as rejoice in the blessings you have so abundantly provided me. I have so much to be grateful for and much more to seek redemption for. I ask all this in your Holy Name.
Sisters and Brothers this a Brew that seems to have been a lifelong struggle for me, I don’t know what it is or why it is, but I just seem to allow this brew to be pushed to the back of the cupboard over and over to where eventually I don’t even recognize that I am no longer drinking it daily. Have you ever found yourself here?
This morning His call to me was so loud in my spirit that I tossed and turned and stressed and worried and tried to find solutions for so many challenges that my life faces currently. While at the same time, another part of my spirit was dancing in joy with recent blessings. Then there was the evil one’s voice trying and almost succeeding in speaking louder into my spirit and soul his lies and deceits and doubts and selfish manipulative mannerisms.
Yet as always, our Lord and Grand Brew Master’s voice overtook the evil ones’ words and began to speak gently to my soul and remind me that yes, this life will have trouble, but if we trust and depend on Him, we will be shown and guided to the path of righteousness.
My heart is full of trouble these days with relational challenges, and fear of the impending loss of my mom, as I am watching the woman that I have always known to be the strongest and most courageous and independent person I have ever known, become smaller, and dependent on others for the most basic of human existence. Financial challenges that just don’t seem to end that are the result of an abusive relationship that took me far too long to leave. As good intentioned Godly people spoke into my life encouraging me to stay and change my response while being deceived by his cunning, narcissistic personality. They too now see the damage and the truth, but I sit in the hardship and heartbreak, the financial ruin, and damaged relationships that were a result of this mess. Please don’t think all the blame is laid at their feet I own as much of this as anyone else. It's just so hard when you are already a broken person to see these truths till they have nearly destroyed you. I am so grateful to our Lord for taking me from this situation before physical parrel came knocking. He is so Good!!
Since that day nearly 2 ½ years ago now, I am still trying to re-learn how to trust, how to begin again, how to lean in and how to depend fully once again on our Lord Jesus Christ. It’s so easy to depend on Him when all things are sunshine and rainbows. It’s even easy for me to depend on when what is before me is complete devastation, it is in these in-between times when there are grand blessings and great sadness, as well as great fear, difficulties, and unknowns that I have no control or power or say in that are much more difficult. That is not to say that we ever really have power or control but there are times when we have choices and options that we can bring to the Lord and seek His wisdom. For so many of the current challenges and difficulties, I have no input, no options, just judgment and consequence that is not of my own making or my own sin. While the person who perpetrated the situation lives on free of any consequence and the knowledge and arrogance to bask in my sorrow and misfortune.
These thoughts and feelings bring us back to today’s brew, as yes, they are true and valid and real and come with real-life challenges. Yet the Lord will see me through to the other side. He has already made a path for me, and He stands before me with His Right hand out and a staff in the left to provide me stability and support to make my way through the wilderness, and over or through the mountain. He is simply calling to me to take the staff and His hand and take this journey with Him. So now it’s time for me and you too possibly to decide if we are going to accept the invitation from one that will always be dependable and trustworthy. Will you join me today at the Grand Brew Master’s Table and drink the Brew of Re-Learned Dependence?
It’s my prayer today that wherever you are that you will quiet the other voices and listen for the voice of truth and respond as I chose to do today. I pray that I will become a better listener, more reliant on His strength and Will for my life daily.
I must Praise and thank Him for the recent blessings, He has provided me with in my new role at work with a supervisor that speaks His truth into all we do every day. One who is quick and gentle to remind me that He is in control, and He always works all things out for the good of His purposes and plans and that those are always to prosper us never to harm us.
May you too be Blessed and Reminded daily of His Great Love for you!!
In His Grace,
Tabby
Teatime With Tabby A Brew of Faith, Hope and Gods Truth
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters,
I hope everyone had a chance to clean out their Tea Cupboards and make room for some new and amazing Brews that God has designed for you and you alone.
Today I feel led to talk about some of the pressures that society places on us, woman in particularly, even more so some that we place on ourselves. Are we to drink of the brew of self love or as I prefer to a call this brew a little something different, The Brew of Loving myself as Christ loves me? I distinguish this brew from brews that are much more worldly. I don't love myself in or by a worldly standard. I am talking about a brew of faith, belief in Christ and who He says you and I are in His eyes.
Lets grab our tea cups as we look at the lives of some women I have known and my own story of lack of self love that plummeted into many pits of despair, darkness, and great sin.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, I have heard just in the past week that several of my beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ who are walking with Him and some that aren't share the same theme in their brew, which involves a sense of worthlessness. They believe that somehow they have done or been or committed terrible things in the brews they have chosen and now have them feeling lost, hopeless, desperate, worthless, unlovable, to messed up to ever have intimacy with the Father or a life partner. So you see they don't see the Father's tender hands and open arms waiting for them, longing for them. He is ready to unleash all the loving comfort and assurance that they need right where they are now, if they would just lift their eyes to see and a heart to hear.
They are each in the need of the brew of Faith, Hope, and God's Truth. God says that once we are His daughters nothing can separate us from His Love. You see Sisters, it doesn't matter how many brews of Sin, Self destruction, Sorrow, Poor Choices, and distance we have drank, the King and Savior of the universe is still with me and you. We must confess our sins to the Lord Jesus and once we do they are cleansed and we are forever more.
I know from personal experience what each of those brews and may other destructive brews can do. Yet I sit here this morning with a heart full of love and hope and I am able to love me; the good, the bad and the sometimes ugly. I'm able to do so because I met the Father and Savior when I finally came to the end of myself. Sisters, I am only able to do this because I began drinking the brew of Christ Confidence and love for me and every one of you. Christ does not desire that any of us would lay in despair without his comfort there for us.
Christ Confidence, what is this brew all about? He designs this brew differently for each us depending on what our defeat and loss of self love for whichever pit we are sitting in. He designs a brew that is exactly what He knows we need to get back to Him. I have learned that this brew can be considered worldly but if you are careful and certain that you are to drink the Brew of Self Love that Christ created and poured for you rest assured worldliness can be poured from the same tea pot that Christ is pouring into our despair. Please know and share with every person you encounter that is in need of such a brew. Be confident that He will brew for them the exact brew they are in need of at that moment.
The difference between the Brew of Self Love that is of this world is one that makes us selfish and desiring only to please ourselves; our "Adam and Eve" complex. When we drink from this cup we are only seeking to serve ourselves not our Lord or the world He created and entrusted to us.
The brew I am speaking of is a brew of Loving acceptance that you are perfect the way Christ, the Lord God made you. And that He created you to be someone that has a life that reveals truth and shines His light of love to a dark and hurting world. Sisters, we will never be taken serious or have the impact that this Brew has the potential for if we don't first love ourselves as Christ loves us.
As I mentioned I have a few dear Sisters that are struggling to find their way to this brew. They are each in different places on the path towards the Tea Cupboard yet they each have their own struggles in reaching it. Some have forgotten what it was like to be enveloped in His amazing Love and being at the center of His will for their lives. Some feel are so alone and have forgotten that they don't recall how VERY MUCH He loves them. Some are a bit further down the path to where this brew awaits them. They may be struggling but they see the steam from the Tea Pot and are headed directly towards it. Others still yet don't know, understand or have ever experienced a dynamic loving all encompassing real relationship with Christ. They have believed but not yet walked with Him.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, there are so many different reasons, trials, failures, loss, defeat, lack of understanding and darkness that Satan pours in to our Tea Cups. These brews need to be replaced with the truths of God and Christ. So here are few to help you find your way on the path to self love, so that you can understand and experience Christ's love for you. Additionally, so that you will have several reference points to turn to when you are in despair the following will help you know without a shadow of doubt that the Father loves you and knows that you are more precious than gold or any other thing that He could choose.
You are His chosen daughters and Love(s) of His Life. Before I list all the promises of God there is one brew that I hold tightly too. That is the Brew that God's love will endure forever and that He loves me besides my sin. He promises that once we are His, He will never stop seeking after us. He promises that His Love will always be available to us. We need nothing more than to seek Him earnestly even in our weakest moments. He will meet us there and pour the perfect brew to fill us with His love, salvation and redemption.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, I pray that you find the strength through Him today to once again allow the Father and Savior, Jesus Christ to love you. To do this you must once again believe with whatever amount of hope and faith you can muster up that you are worthy of His love because you are. After all He created you to love you. He died on the cross to save you and He arose again to give you everlasting life. Take and drink these brews as He brewed them specially and uniquely for each of us.
God's Promises
What can be said about God's promises to us?
1. He has promised to supply every need we have. The Bible says: "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus". That's Philippians 4:19. Now notice, God has obligated Himself only to the extent of our needs. That would include food, clothing, shelter, companionship, love, and salvation through Jesus Christ. It would not include the multiplicity of luxuries that we have come to think of as needs.
2. God has promised that His grace is sufficient for us. (II Corinthians 12:9). in fact, He has made provision for our salvation by His grace through faith. Read Ephesians 2:8. It is through an obedient faith that we have access into the grace of God according to Romans 5:2.
3. God has promised that His children will not be overtaken with temptation. Instead, He assures us that a way of escape will be provided. This promise is recorded in I Corinthians 10:13. Jude wrote: "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present your faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy." (Jude v 24). Darius, King of the Medes, said to Daniel, "Thy God whom thou serve continually, he will deliver thee" (Daniel 6:16). He did deliver Daniel from the den of lions.
4. God has promised us victory over death. He first resurrected Jesus by way of assuring our resurrection. Peter said: "This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we are all witnesses" (Acts 2:32). Paul wrote to the Corinthians: "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures" (I Corinthians 15:3,4). Later on he adds: "but thanks be to God, which gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Corinthians 15:57).
5. God has promised that all things work together for good to those who love and serve Him faithfully (Romans 8:28). It may be difficult for us to see and understand how this is accomplished at times, but God has promised it and He will deliver.
6. God has promised that those who believe in Jesus and are baptized for the forgiveness of sins will be saved. (Read Mark 16:16 and Acts 2:38).
7. God has promised His people eternal life (John 10:27,28).
In closing, let me appeal to you to live so that the promises of God will be yours.
Love,
Tabby
Pierce the Plans of the Enemy Through Praise
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
The word hope is found in the Strong’s concordance. It is the Greek elpis. It is defined as to hope, hope for, put hope in, expect, an attitude of confidently looking forward to what is good and beneficial.
Peter starts out the conversation with his audience by first of all, admonishing them to praise God in the midst of suffering and trials, then he reminds them to place their hope in Christ resurrection through His death and thirdly he encourages them to have a sober and alert mind.
Let’s look at how Peter encouraged them to praise Him in the midst of their trials. He wanted them to Praise the Father, God and the Son for all that had been given to the new believers. Brothers and Sisters, the enemy's job is to get us to focus on the attack instead of the breakthrough we receive through praise. God's power meets us in the midst of praise our praise in spite of what we are going through. His presence is our shield us and indwells us when we praise Him in through our trials.
You know James and David had the same idea that Peter did when they admonished their audience to praise God while going through various trials. We, as believers, are to praise God through anything, even our sufferings. Our hope must come alive through our praise. James 1:2-7 says, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”
And let’s look at Psalm 34, which is one of my all-time favorite scriptures, “I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof and be glad. O magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt his name together. I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked unto him and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. The young lions do lack and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing. Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD. What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry. The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.”
Praise should always be a Christians first response when it comes to trials. It is our secret weapon in attacking the enemy when He attacks our minds through trials. Eventhough trials rise against the Christians. We are to remind ourselves that trials are no match for the ultimate weapon which lies in the mouth of the believer, which is praise.
Brothers and Sisters, there are some days I enter my quiet time with God with the weight of the world on my shoulders and I am distracted by the cares of the world. At that moment I have no hope. But I notice the minute I give way to praise, the weight is lifted. And in that moment I am reminded that Jesus not only shows forth His willingness to handle each one of my burdens but He reassures me of how capable He is of delivering me from my burdens. The melodies that go forth from our mouths when we sing back His promises to Him pierce the plans of the enemy.
Prayer of faith
Thank you Lord for praise. Praise is a powerful weapon to fight against our enemy. Help us to use it. May we always have praise on our lips. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Hearken To His Voice
"The sacrifice God wants is a broken spirit. God you will not reject a heart that is broken and sorry for sin." Psalm 51:17 NCV
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Throughout the bible each man or woman God used had a heart that was responsive to hearing and obeying His voice. What I'm saying is we must be sensitive to His Spirit. I know sometimes we may think that it's our ability or talent that allows us to be used by Him, but Brothas and Sistas, that is not the case. What God wants is a man or woman who has a broken and contrite heart.
Psalm 51:17 says, "The sacrifice God wants is a broken spirit. God you will not reject a heart that is broken and sorry for sin." In other words God is looking at the heart and what condition it is in. I like Jeremiah 17:10 which says, " I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind." You see when I as an ordinary person with all my faults I came in contact with God; the extraordinary comes from Him.
One of the things I need to ask myself is, "Am I available to be used by God? In order to be used by God my character needs a consistent spiritual check up. David said in Psalm 139:23-24 "Search me Oh God and know my heart trust me and know my anxious thoughts, see if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting."
Brothas and Sistas, my check up keeps me on point, but if I don't heed to the warning signs that may be given then spiritual sickness will spread, my heart will weaken, and soon fail. You see God's Spirit will ask me to stop before I go any further and deal with a particular issue in my character or behavior.
I remember someone telling me to read Psalm 15 which says, "Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? That scripture pretty much deals with the heart issue. The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord;who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken."
You see this chapter truly shows me the condition of my heart.
We must keep in mind that God places us in situations that line up according to His will and purpose for our lives. In other words, whatever we do has to be unto the Lord because Christ is Lord over our lives. Whatever we do is from the heart and not because someone tells us. Do you not know that as a man of God He puts us in places where we can make a difference as a servant of God? Remember our reward is from the Lord not men.
Listen Brothas and Sistas, if you are faithful over a few things God will be able to trust you with more. God is involved in every area of our lives whether we recognize it or not. God is so good that He will take the ordinary circumstances we face in life and use them to help develop our character.
Until next week. Take care.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Thank you for speaking to us. Help us to discern your voice and obey accordingly. May we want to do your will more than anything. Give us a heart like yours. In Jesus name we pray Amen,
Blessed to Be A Blessing
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
God has given us His all, His Son and I just wanted to share my testimony, heart's prayer and desire for giving unselfishly to bless others. I had been thinking about the Christmas season and wondering how I could give of myself unselfishly.
Brothas and Sistas, my thought was, "This is what God did when He gave us Jesus. The Holy Spirit then brought to mind something I had seen on the news which featured people paying off strangers bills in stores and giving out money. The Holy Spirit said to me, "You be the giver." and so I did.
One day after paying for my stuff in Walmart, I began to pay for a few others standing in line. I left there went to pick up my medication at CVS, payed for it and blessed the cashier. She asked if I needed her to change the bill I gave her. I said, "No, it's for you! Merry Christmas."
Next, I went to the bank and while coming out I blessed a lady going to her car. Brothas and Sistas, all of these people responded the same way; amazed and over joyed with disbelief, crying but all so grateful.
God has blessed me so many times when I was in need. This was my way of thanking Him by giving to strangers. Oh the joy that fills my soul. God has blessed me with resources to do this and it feels so good to give back. Jesus said to Himself, in Acts 20:35 B," It is more blessed to give than to receive." And it was. Not only that but whatever we do unto our Lord, so give, Brothas and Sistas. Jesus did and so should we. We will never go without when we do.
I want to be a blessing to others. What about you? Will you be a blessing to all those that you come in contact with as the Lord leads you? I challenge you to bless others in the same way that God has blessed you. You will realize that the person receiving the blessing is not only blessed by your giving but you will be blessed by being a blessing.
God Bless,
Renee
Prayer of Faith
Dear Lord,
Thank you for giving yourself away for us. We pray that we would seek and listen for opportunities to be a blessing to those around us. Allow us to be so sensitive to your Spirit that we will give when you say so; after all you have given so much for us. Allow us to return the favor. We pray all these things in your amazing name, Jesus.
Marriage - Am I Responding to My Vows God's Way or My Way
http://youtu.be/YOKq1VmEbtc Old Skool
“Marriage is a total commitment and a total sharing of the total person with another person until death.” ~ Wayne Mack
Malachi 2:14,15 "But you say, “Why does he not?” Because the LORD was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant."
Good morning to you both,
Brothas and Sistas, as we seek to understand the marital vows let's look at the vows concerning "for better or for worse". Brothas and Sistas, what does for better or for worse mean to you. “For better or for worse” is a commitment by the marriage partners to rise-up together against those things that would threaten the marriage covenant relationship such as attraction for/from someone of the opposite sex towards a marriage partner, dealing with rebellious children, blended family conflict, etc.,
Believe it or not, there are some things that we just need to have enough spiritual gumption or perseverance to work through. Brothas and Sistas, it is never an option to bail out at the first sign of trouble or conflict. The Christian life calls us to a life of perseverance and commitment. We must learn the importance of prayer and trusting God when it comes to conflict in our marriages.
The Bible presents marriage as a divine institution. If marriage were of human origin, then human beings would have a right to decide the kind of marital relationships to choose. Marriage, however, began with God. It was established by God at the beginning of human history when He "created the heavens and the earth" (Gen 1:1). As the Creator of marriage, God has the right to tell us which principles should govern our marital relationships.
Commitment is a mindset, an attitude and a way of thinking that will enable you and your spouse to navigate through the still waters and the storms of a marriage relationship. Charles Swindoll (Strike the Original Match) compares working on marriage to remodeling a house:
It takes longer than you planned
It costs more than you figured
It is messier than you anticipated
It requires greater determination than you expected
Sometimes the only thing that keeps us going is hope!
Now Brothas and Sistas, there may be some of you asking the question: What if I am involved in an abusive marriage or a marriage where my spouse continues to commit adultery? Brothas and Sistas, let's make it clear it is never healthy to remain in a relationship with someone that is consistently abusive or commits adultery without genuine repentance. We are not giving you advice to divorce your spouse if this is occurring in your relationship because that is a decision that has to be Spirit led and it is your decision to make.
On the other hand, we have witnessed spouses being told that they are bound by their marital vows to stay in a marriage even when they have been victims of domestic violence and adultery. They have been made to feel guilty by being consistently reminded that they are called by God to forgive and love unconditionally regardless of how many times their spouse breaks the marital vows.
Brothas and Sistas, does “for better or for worse” mean that you are married for life — regardless of the violations committed against you in the marriage? The answer is No! Nor has it ever meant that. As we have said before, in counseling sessions some spouses have been told that they are called by God to maintain a relationship with someone even when he or she is repeatedly destructive toward them. In other words, "For better or worse."
But is that counsel truly biblical? Are we ever permitted to end a relationship or distance ourselves from someone because of their unchanged sinful behavior? God's love for humankind is unconditional but he does not offer anyone unconditional relationship. He tells us that our sin separates us from him and that without repentance we have no fellowship with him (1 John 1:6). Our sin does not separate us from God’s love (Romans 5:8) but it does separate us from his presence (Isaiah 59:1-2). Jesus distanced himself from certain religious leaders because he didn’t trust them. He knew what was in their heart (John 2:24). Throughout much of the Old Testament, God withdraws his presence from his people because of unrepentant sin. God calls people to a covenant relationship that is like a marriage. He not only wants us to enjoy his love, he wants us to love him back (Deuteronomy 6:5). He not only promises us his faithfulness, he requires that we be faithful in return (Deuteronomy 4:23-24). The book of Hosea is a picture of God’s love for his unfaithful spouse (Israel). He longs for her, but his relationship with her will remain broken until she is willing to change.
http://www.leslievernick.com/pdfs/IS-Marriage-SUPPOSED-to-be-for-Better-or-for-Worse-FR.pdf
In this sinful world there is no perfect person and in every relationship there is some brokenness and suffering. That’s why Jesus tells us that when someone sins against us, we are to go and talk to that person so that we can be reconciled. However, he also adds, if they refuse to hear you after you have repeatedly tried to get them to listen, "treat them as you would a pagan and a tax collector" (Matthew 18:15-17). Jesus says, if there is no repentance, the relationship you once had changes. Pagans and tax collectors were not trusted, nor were they friends, although a good Jew would help a pagan or tax collector who was in need, fulfilling the biblical mandate to love one’s enemy.
http://www.leslievernick.com/pdfs/IS-Marriage-SUPPOSED-to-be-for-Better-or-for-Worse-FR.pdf
In conclusion, when dealing with the marital vows, "For better or for worse" let's ask ourselves, "Am I responding to these vows God's way or my way?" Brothas, and Sistas, in order for us to have successful marriages we must respond to these vows in a godly way even when conflict arises. Until next time. Take care.
Minister Antonio and Sista Michelle Washington
Let's Pray
Dear Lord,
We praise your great name for the spouses that you have blessed us with. We realize that you have joined us together and for this we are so grateful. Please continue to bless our marriages. Help us to honor you by continuing to love the ones that we are with. May we always honor the marital vows that we made toward our spouses. We pray all these things in your praiseworthy name, Jesus. Amen.
Teatime with Tabby Brew of the Lord's Power
Genesis 18:18 (NIV)"Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and all nations on earth will be blessed through him."
1 Chronicles 29:11 (NIV) "Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all."
1 Corinthians 4:20 (NIV) "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power."
Ephesians 3:7 (NIV) "I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power."
Colossians 1:11 (NIV) "being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience."
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters,
I pray that this blizzard we have experienced here in MD has been nothing more than a nuisance to you and your family. I must give God praise and thanks that my family and I have all been safe, warm, fed and full laughter through this storm. Now this doesn't mean there haven't been storms of life but God has provided even through them in this wintery mess. I must also give Him great thanks and praise for the gift that He saw to it for me to receive a year ago this week. One year ago, He gifted me with a brand new knee, the entire knee. After many years of pain and surgery, swelling, ice, heat, medication and therapy that all failed I received my new knee Jan 25, 2015. Let me share with you a little about how this ties into the brew God has prepared for us today. Let's grab our Tea Cups and seek to understand how in our greatest weakness the Lord's Power can and will always be more than enough to see us through.
As I began to share I have never had strong knees. I always remember them just not being like others. They were knobby and never very strong. Friends could run and run and be just fine, not me. I was the one in gym class that always made everyone run an extra lap because I just couldn't keep up. This was true of me when I was in boot camp too and advanced training for the military.
Now there was one thing that my knees were really good at as a kid. I could tie my legs up in knots and walk about on my knees. I'm guessing now that this may have lead to their demise. Well enough of that.... I want to share with you the great Power that lives within each of us. That is if you have chosen to accept Christ as your Lord and Personal Savior. What follows is one example of how the Lord revealed to me how to tap into that very power that resides within each of us always.
As I said, I am celebrating 1 year with my what I like call my bionic knee. Now it's not actually bionic but to me it is. Through this surgery and recovery I had to learn and decide who was my Brew Master. I had to learn and decide who was I going to rely on to get through what at times I thought was going to kill me. I would be lying if I said that I didn't lay in that hospital bed, on that PT Table, on that bicycle, and at home in my husband's recliner and beg the Lord to take me home. The pain was just that intense at times. Yet, I can sit here now and rejoice in that pain and relish it all. I don't know if you have ever been so far beyond what you, your mind, power and strength can manage or not. It doesn't necessarily have to be physical pain. It certainly can be emotional pain. It's a pain where your soul has no other options but one of these two.
1. To cry out to the Lord and God Creator of your soul, mind and body and completely and totally surrender everything; down to the next breath you need to survive.
OR
2. To completely give up and surrender to the pain and allow the Evil One to direct your next steps and fill your mind, body, and soul with more pain, anger, frustration and blame.
Now Brothers and Sisters, these are two very different outcomes. One you invite the Master of your Tea Cupboard to come in and pour His strength and endurance into you. Two, You surrender to the Brew of Spirit Filled Power. This doesn't necessarily change the circumstances or make everything perfect but I promise you that you will find refuge, release and comfort here. I assure you that this is true. I laid in that bed many nights and days and begged the Father to take me or take the pain. EVERYTIME when I stopped trying to make the pain stop or stopped scheming and planning He took over and I found refuge and relief from the pain and suffering. What a difficult Brew to accept and sip upon but it is worth its weight in sweet surrender.
Now Brothers and Sisters, I would remiss if I didn't share how often I have chosen the other brew in my lifetime. I have sipped upon this powerful brew that is nothing more than poison too many times. To be completely honest, I am probably sipping on it right now in certain situations in my life. I so desire to pour this brew out. As this brew brings nothing but more heartache, more physical pain, and suffering. The lies begin to swirl in and around in your cup. You can see them curdling your cream. You can feel the burn deep in your soul as you sip this in. Why then do I/we allow the Evil One to serve this up for us? Why do we not simply pour it out and not so much as take a sip?
I wish that I had the answer for that for you and me. It's an answer that I know can only come from the Lord. I am beginning to understand that if I don't want to drink that sour brew I must stop, drop and pray as soon as I see it curdling before me. I can't wait till I have tasted it to be sure that my eyes weren't tricking me. I must trust that small still voice within me. I know that this voice is the Grand Brew Master's Spirit that resides within me and if I choose to listen to it more and rely on it more that it will grow. I know that this voice will become louder than the one that screams out to me, the one who intends to fill me with self righteousness by offering offenses of others such as, "You have been offended." or "You have been hurt."or "You have been abandoned," or "You were given less than quality parts and life." If I/we choose to focus on these swirls in our Tea Cup we will surely turn as bitter as the brew that resides in these words.
Brothers and Sisters, what I want for each of us to take away with us today is to know that the Brew Master of our Souls will NEVER pour sour milk or bitter brews. Life may serve up some bitter brews but the Grand Brew Master can take them and turn them from Bitter to Better and Better to Best. We simply must trust that the Power of the Holy Spirit to change our lives, circumstances, and eternity. We must remember that truth, love, and salvation come to us from only One, Truly Powerful Brew Master, Christ.
Here are some practical ways to be able to tell if the Brew you are sipping is filled with the Power of the Spirit of Christ or the power of the Evil One.
1. Take the circumstance to God and ask that His Holy Spirit reveal to you what this is.
2. Stay in prayer about the circumstance. God will reveal Himself and His plans to you.
3. Have prayer partners praying for the Truth and Power of God to be revealed to you.
4. Most importantly compare the Brew before you to the Word of God. If there is any discrepancies then know immediately that this is not a Brew of the Power of God but rather a deception meant to sour your spirit. Praise God for the storm and continually seek to see His Power and Faithfulness in and through all things.
In closing today, as our Tea Party comes to an end for this week I must thank all the hands and feet of Christ that came and cared for me and my family while I recovered. I must thank the amazing surgeon, team, and all the healthcare workers that got me back to even greater and better than I was a year ago. I must also thank my husband for his love and support throughout this past year. Lastly, I must give all the PRAISE and GLORY to God for gifting me the new knee. Also for the many trials, failures, and success that have brought me to this Brew of Power in and through the one and only True Grand Brew Master, Jesus Christ.
Till next week, be sure you know who is pouring the Brews of life for you. Don't forget where you can go and get the most Power Filled Brew. The Brew of the Power of God that you will always need and can always depend upon. This Brew can always be found at end of yourself and the foot of the cross.
Love,
Tabby
Trust God for the Resolution
"Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds for you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish it's work so that you may be mature and complete not lacking anything." James 1:2-4
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
It is so true that many times we are hit with trials from out of nowhere. And quite often we wonder where God is in all of it. There are times when we doubt God, especially when going through times of testing. And then He so lovingly shows up on our behalf and we learn how to trust Him in spite of what we see, hear and feel. We have moments of doubt because we desperately want to believe Him.
Brothas and Sistas, doubt is a feeling. Belief is a choice. Choose to believe Him today regardless of what you see, hear and feel. He is well able. "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self discipline."
Brothas and Sistas, are we thinking to much and not trusting in Him enough?" Do we believe in God's truths or Satan's lies? Is He greater in us than he who's in the world? Are we holding to His truths? John 8: 31-32 , says, "To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, If you hold to my teaching you are really my disciples, then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."Fear is crippling. It will have you holding onto that tangible thing. But when you walk in the Spirit, with the Holy Spirit, He will lead you to opyour heart and mind to the infinite possibilities of God.
As believers in Christ we always say, "He's more than able, but don't we all have moments of unbelief and then the Holy Spirit brings back to our remembrance all that He has so graciously deliveres when we are so crippled with fear, we feel like we're being punished. Brothas and Sistas, have you ever caught yourself saying, "Oh Lord, why me? What did I do to deserve this?" But God is not the" I'm gonna get 'cha God." He loves us.
I ask you, "What do we have to fear? I believe we give people, situations, and the devil to much power. We have the power of the Holy Spirit within us. "For verily I say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith." (Mark 11:23)
Satan will use every tactic he can to consume us with fear. I mean, have you ever been lied upon or lied to? That's just who Satan is, an accuser of the brethren. But as Christian Brothas and Sistas, we know a God who never lies, sleeps or slumbers. "If he be for us than who shall be against us?" "No weapon formed against us shall prosper." - past, present or future. We have to know that devil is a liar straight from the pit of hell! Brothas and Sistas, claim your victory today. James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." That excites me so!
Speak life into your situation and trust God for the resolution!Romans 8:1 says, "Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Amen Praise be to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Praise Him in His greatness!
Trials come our way to make us stronger, so that we may become better and not bitter!"
Prayer for Today
Dear Lord,
Help us to look to the hills for which comes our help. Our help comes from you. Thank you for being our defence and strong tower in whom we can place ALL our cares. We love you Jesus. In your precious name, Jesus, we pray. Amen
Its All In Your Mind
"As a man thinks so is he. " Proverbs 23:7
Good morning Brothers and Sisters,
If we don’t control our minds, we will never control us. Let’s go a step further if we don’t allow the Spirit of God to control our minds, we will never be Spirit controlled. We have to be mindful of our thoughts. In other words, we need to “think about what we are thinking about”.
We have to take control of our thoughts and bring them under the Lordship of Christ. Yes, it's true, there are times when we can become weary from all that Satan sends our way to try to defeat us. During these times we are tempted to walk around with a defeated mentality, but the bible tells us in Romans 8:37 that, "We are more than conquerors. "I like that phrase "more than", it indicates a quantifier meaning greater in size, amount, extent, or degree.
There is no situation that we don't stand to come out on top. There is positive in even the seemingly most negative situation because we all acquire growth from it. Just like the believers during Peter’s time we may need to change our mentality. One of my most favorite scriptures says, "I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal (to make like new : restore to freshness, vigor, or perfection) of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]. Romans 12:1, 2
We will not be able to perform the will of God until we renew our minds. The way that we think is so crucial to us walking in our destiny. If we don’t control our minds, we will not be able to control our lifestyle. When we continue to allow our minds to run on things that do not matter to the plan of God in our lives, we become controlled by those things without even realizing it.
My mother used to say, “An idle mind is the devil’s playground.” We have to remain vigilant and on guard when it come to what we allow to come into or rule our thinking. Negative thoughts lead to negative actions. “As a man thinketh so is he.” Proverbs 23:7a
Charles Stanley says, “Renewing the mind is a little like refinishing furniture. It is a two-stage process. It involves taking off the old and replacing it with the new. The old is the lies you have learned to tell or were taught by those around you; it is the attitudes and ideas that have become a part of your thinking but do not reflect reality. The new is the truth. To renew your mind is to involve yourself in the process of allowing God to bring to the surface the lies you have mistakenly accepted and replace them with truth. To the degree that you do this, your behavior will be transformed.”
We must remember revelation without application does not lead to transformation. It is absurd to listen to the word of God, not apply it and then expect change. It is as equally absurd to listen to the word, apply it, and then expect to remain the same. The word of God is not only life giving but it is ultimately life changing.
Many times, I hear people say that they chose to make a lifestyle change in order to be healthier. Brothers and Sisters, the change did not just take place with a willingness to exercise or make better food choices. You see there, first had to be a change of mind in order for the emotional and physical change to come forth. You see they had to apply the word that had been spoken in regard to the lifestyle change.
In the same way we must apply and live out His word. The definition of apply is implementation, use, exercise, utilization, practice, execution or employment.
Apply is an action word. In other words, we must do something in order to gain something. Change will not come via osmosis. A change of mind is what God is after and it will take some effort on our part. We must guard, gird, renew, and refresh our minds via the word and person of God.
The Greek word for change of mind is metanoia. This kind of change calls for a change in one's inner man. Metanoia literally means after thought. An afterthought comes forth after something has been said, an idea occurring later. Afterthought stems from it's root word thought. The definition of thought is meditation, reflection, consideration, contemplation and concentration.
Brothers and Sisters, after careful consideration, in depth meditation, considerable reflection, irrefutable consideration, relentless contemplation and deep concentration on God's word the end result must be an undaunting transformation. The question still remains, “What are you doing with the word that you have already been taught?”
Simply allow Gods word to change whats all in your mind.
Love
Denise
What Do You Believe?
"While He spoke these things to them, behold, a ruler came and worshiped Him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay Your hand on her and she will live.” So Jesus arose and followed him, and so did His disciples. And suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment. For she said to herself, “If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.” But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, “Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And the woman was made well from that hour. When Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing, He said to them, “Make room, for the girl is not dead, but sleeping.” And they ridiculed Him. But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went out into all that land.Two Blind Men Healed. When Jesus departed from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out and saying, “Son of David, have mercy on us!” And when He had come into the house, the blind men came to Him. And Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?”They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” Matthew 9:18 - 28"
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Brothas and Sistas, how do we handle situations and circumstances in our lives? Do we get angry with God or do we believe what He says will soon come to pass? As we look at our text prior to that Jesus was just finishing with His response to John's disciples in reference to the question,"How is it that they and the Pharisees fast often but Jesus disciples don't?" Just as He concluded with them, here comes the synagogue leader, whose name by the way is Jairus, who kneels before Jesus and says, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay Your hand on her and she will live.”
There are three points I want to bring to your attention. Let's take a look at the first point.
First point
1. Positive - vs.18 "But come and put your hand on her and she will live." In times of uncertainty we must remain positive. Just like Jairus came to Jesus with a positive attitude believing what Jesus could do without doubting so should we remain positive in our uncertainties. Jairus having the faith as small as a mustard seed believed Jesus was able to bring her back to life and Jesus did just that." Matthew 17:20, Luke 17:6
Second point
2. Persistent - vs. 20 - 22- For 12 years this woman had an issue of blood, but she didn't give up. The bible says, "She came up behind Him and touched the edge of His cloak. " She also said, " If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made whole!!" There are times when we may be praying for deliverance in some areas of our lives and yet it seems as though deliverance may never come but I encourage you to be like this woman. Be persistent and don't ever give up nor give in. Just because God hasn't come at the time we think He should doesn't mean He won't come at all. It took this woman 12 years before she received her healing and for some of us it has been weeks, months and perhaps years but God always comes on time. Philippians 1:6 says, "Being confident of this very thing, He who has begun a good work in you shall perform it until the day of Jesus Christ."
Third point
3. Personal - vs. 27 -28 - Here we see the two blind men following Jesus saying, "Have mercy on us Son of David!" Now notice they didn't stop either because they went in behind Him and Jesus asked, " Do you believe that I am able to do this?" And they answered, "Yes, Lord." When Jesus turned to them and posed the question in a personal way He already knew the answer. He is asking the same of us today. Whatever your need is, Whatever you are seeking God for...He is making it personal to you today. DO YOU BELIEVE I CAN DO THIS?
Our God is in the business of believing. He doesn't have a problem but we do? My question to you is....What do you believe?
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank you for answering our every prayer whether is in one week, one month, one year, or many years we know that you are faithful. Lord, help us with our unbelief during those times when it looks as though you won't come through for us or you are just simply by our standards taking too long. May we walk in faith daily. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Building Up One Another with An End In Mind
"From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love." Ephesians 4:16
Good morning my precious Brothas and Sistas,
In my study time this morning I found that nearly every building that is custom designed and constructed, often requires a long time to complete. There are so many intricate details that are not only involved in the planning process but there are intricate details involved in watching the actual building take form. It is an often slow and tedious process. Often in ministry we get so frustrated when we tend to concentrate too much on where we perceive our Brothas and Sistas to be. The difference between us and Jesus is that he always focused on what and where His followers would one day be. That's why He changed Abrams name to Abraham, Sari's name to Sarah, Saul's name to Paul, Jacob's name to Israel, and Simon's name to Peter. Jesus saw and still sees amazing potential in all of His followers. If Jesus just concentrated on where they were or what they were when He found them he would have never spoken possibility into them.
My husband is an amazing encourager within the body and he often speaks possibility into the people that are around him. He will lovingly takes people who are at their lowest point in life and begins to pour positive into them. He is so extremely patient with people. I can remember when our kids where younger he would sit them and their friends on the living room chair and pour God's words into them and tell them about the amazing potential that they have in them. Many of them looked like they were going to pass out or kill over because he would have them sitting there for at least 2 hours at the least. Brothas and Sistas, you know how preachers are, they love to talk.
Many of those teenagers would often take part in our family vacations and God would give him opportunities to pour into them some more. After years of him ministering to them, many of those teenagers are beginning to do some positive things with their lives. They still deeply respect my husband today because of all that he did for them when they were younger. They always make it a point when they stop by and he asks them how they are doing, where they are with their future goals and their current accomplishments.
You see, when he first started pouring into them many of them did not know what they wanted to do or be beyond what they had been doing which was stealing, going to jail, cussing, getting high etc., I believe that those words that my husband spoke into them are bringing forth seeds of greatness as we speak. My husband has done the exact same thing with me.
Last weekend I heard a story about Pastor Ron Barnett of the Dream Center in Los Angeles and how he often meets drug dealers, prostitutes, people in prison etc., and he often speaks words of life into them by telling them that they will one day be one of his deacons, worship leaders, ushers, or youth pastors even before he actually gets to know them. Do you not know that very often those people that he speaks life into become the very things that he has spoken into them? That pastor does not call them what they are but by faith he calls them what they will one day become.
In Ephesians 4:16 we are told that we are to edify each other in love. The word edify means that we are to build; to establish; to improve enlighten or uplift. The Greek word for edification is oikodomeo or okedome which is defined as the act of building. This word means to promote Christian character. Ephesians 4:16 also says that we are to be "fitly joined together."
Fitly means proper size and shape for, suitable time or proper suits a given time, purpose, occasion or condition. There are times when the Brotha or Sista that we are ministering to may pluck our last nerve and we may think "Lord you must be confused. This IS NOT, IS NOT the right one that you want ME to minister to, to build into, to establish, to improve, to enlighten, or to promote Christian character in. Lord they are not right for me. They don't fit the bill of what I would expect them to be. This is not the right time, occasion, and they are not in the right condition for me to deal with them. Lord, you must be trippin'."But, Brothas and Sistas, as I mentioned to you in the beginning just like with any building project that requires a lot of time and effort, so does building into our Brothas or Sistas. It requires dedication and commitment on our part.
We have to see this process through. We must keep in mind that God is using us because He is building us all up. Build is defined as the act process art or occupation of constructing. Jesus is the master builder. He is well versed in the art of constructing His daughters and sons. He sees so much phenomenal potential in all of us. He is always involved in the intricate details of each one of His building projects and can see the finished project well ahead of time. He is building up other Brothas and Sistas through you because He has a desired end in mind. So please don't stop planting those seed of hope. You never know how far the power of an encouraging word will go.
Prayer Time
We love and adore you. thanks for all the times you encourage us when we are down. Help us to encourage our Brothas and Sistas the way you encourage us. May we be patient with them as you are with us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Teatime with Tabby - A Time for Everything
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace."
Psalm 9:9 The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 Final Greetings Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you."
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I pray you have awoken today with the joy of the season in your heart. May we pray. Lord, I pray that the brew that is to be shared here today is yours. I pray that the words and intents are pleasing to you and honoring of your word and truth. I thank you in advance for the privilege and honor to share what you have put upon my heart today.
Brothers and Sisters, I do not know about you, but this season of the year always gets me thinking about time and how very precious it is and how particularly important it is that we spend it well. I am not sure I am not just getting more nostalgic as time passes with each new Christmas season or not. It is not a melancholy that I feel, its more an excitement of the time we have here. The opportunity to make memories that will surpass the test of time.
For me at least, this year has really impressed upon my spirit that we really all do have limited time in the hourglass of life and that is not only true for ourselves but for those we love and cherish. I am not sure if it is hitting my heart more intently this year since we lost my dad earlier this year or if it’s the fact that the cancer seems to be stealing a bit more of mom away each time I see her. She is still fighting no doubt about that but her energy is greatly reduced.
As I sit and speak to our Heavenly Father of my breaking heart, He reminds me that her timeline is not ending that it will continue just on the other side with Him as my dad awaits for her there. God reminds me that every day we have this side of heaven counts and that we must do all that we can to make it count.
How do we go about making it count. Well, the world would surely have their own definitions of how we make each day count. The world would tell us to make a name for ourselves, to build our own personal empire, to get and keep all the biggest and best toys etc. However, that is not what I believe God calls us to do with our time.
I believe that with each precious moment we have this side of heaven we are to make it count for Kingdom matters. Have I shared a smile with stranger as that one smile could be the smile that keeps that person from feeling unloved, unseen, and unnoticed? Did I listen to that person, friend, child, family member that was having a tough day or did I just nod and respond. Did I share the truth and love of Christ with 1 person today? Did I take a minute to look at the beauty of the sky or the trees today that God placed there for my personal view? Did I use the gifts and talents that God has built up in and through my life’s experiences, trials, hardships, and blessings to bless another person today?
Brothers and Sisters, the time we have here on this earth, we are called to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ. I pray that we will each especially this Christmas Season take time out to notice and make every day count. This year has been more than challenging as a nation and as a human race. We have encounter trials and struggles that have not impacted us for many generations. There are so many hurting and disillusioned in our midst that we could have a kingdom impact if simply stepped out of our personal strife and choose to put on God’s Eyes for moment and chose to do What Jesus Would Do for another.
Brothers and Sisters, I encourage you to be the Jesus to another in your midst today and every day. I pray that you will find your heart more inclined to making memories and making a difference over building your own personal empire. Seek out God’s wisdom and council He will lead you safely to bless another, and I promise you that every time you choose to set out to bless another, God will bless you in a manner you would not expect. We serve a Good God and One who deserves to be shared with the entire world. What I know to be true is that if we as the human race chose to do this our world would become a much better place for all of the Human Race. It is easy enough to do all we must do is invite Him to be a part of our day each day.
May God bless and keep you and your family safe. May you find a way to bless another today then another the next day. Remember it does not cost us a penny to share the love, and grace, and hope of Christ!!
Till next week,
Love, Tabby
Pride: The Root of All Sin
https://youtu.be/ySa3Vu4FUW8?list=PLOwSo8kHs4XSN2s8VwHGf64nW960MJ-u0
"Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall!" I Corinthians 10:12
Read Jeremiah 13:1-11
"I have seen thine adulteries, and thy neighings, the lewdness of thy whoredom,and thine abominations on the hills in the fields. Woe unto thee, O Jerusalem! wilt thou not be made clean? when shall it once be?" Jeremiah 13:23
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Brothas and Sistas, pride will hide a man's faults to himself but magnify them to everybody else. Don't you find it strange when everybody else sees what you won't see. If you don't deal with pride it will intensify until it is irreversible.
We have to first understand what was going on during Jeremiah's day and what the linen cloth represented. First of all linen, was a garment worn by the Priest. The linen belt was symbolic of the intimate relationship between God and Israel. This was indeed a different time, but the principle is still the same today.
As the belt became dirtier it symbolized the sins of the people as they continued to do evil rather than obey God. Many times God wants us to seize the light of His glory but too often we won't. Even when pride gets in the leadership it will cause the whole house to be carried away captive. And when we don't yield to the Spirit of God He will let everyone see the shame of our pride. The bible tells us in I Corinthians 10:12 "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall!"
Brothas and Sistas, lying, fornication, adultery, perverseness, homosexuality, covetousness, fornication, etc., these are just a few symptoms of the main problem; PRIDE. All of these sins get their root from PRIDE. The world ought to see the glory of God in us. His power honor and praise should be our radiance in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:" I Peter 2:9
Question(s): Brothas and Sistas, will thou be made clean? When shall it once be?
"There is one vice of which no man in the world is free; which every one in the world loathes when he sees it in someone else; and of which hardly any people, except Christians ever imagine that they are guilty themselves….The essential vice, the utmost evil, is Pride. Unchastity, anger, greed, drunkenness, and all that, are mere fleabites in comparison: it was through Pride that the devil became the devil; Pride leads to every other vice: it is the complete anti-God state of mind…As long as you are proud you cannot know God. A proud man is always looking down on things and people; and, of course, as long as you are looking down, you cannot see something that is above you." C.S. Lewis
Take care until next time.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer Time
Lord, we are grateful that you are more than able to set us free from sin once we confess it to you. Help us to repent of the root of our sin which is pride so that we may walk in your grace and mercy daily. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Learn To Receive
He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" Romans 8:32.
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
The hardest thing for us to do as givers is to receive. We are so used to giving to others that when someone wants to bless us we often feel as though we are undeserving. We forget that God has promised, "Give and it shall be given unto you. A GOOD measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap. For the measure you use will be measured unto you." Luke 6:38
You see I am convinced that God looks out for those who look out for others but when it comes to me being on the receiving end I always feel as though someone else is so much more deserving than I am or may need it more than I do. This past Christmas I had the opportunity to have someone gift my family with a monetary donation to help with Christmas but because I thought someone else needed more than I did I passed the blessing along. Brothas and Sistas, eventhough I was out of work it never dawned on me that that could have been an answer to prayer for my family. I felt as though another family needed it more and God would make a way for us. Lol! The Lord dealt with me after that letting me know that there is nothing wrong with me being on the receiving end sometimes. And I have to be honest there has never been a time in my life that God has not supernaturally shown up when I prayed to Him in sincerity knowing He would indeed come through for me.
As givers we have to remember that we have a heavenly Father who gets great delight in answering our prayers when they line up with His will for our lives. "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! "Matthew 7:11 Our heavenly Father has already promised to" graciously give us all things" "He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" Romans 8:32.
Brothas and Sistas, We can experience some of the most awesome miracles which come as a result to answered prayer when we purpose in our hearts to be the givers that He already ordained us to be. We just have to be open to receive!
"The more you give, the more comes back to you, because God is the greatest giver in the universe, and He won't let you out give Him. Go ahead and try. See what happens."
- Randy Alcorn
Prayer of Faith
Lord, we bless your name for your manifold blessings. You are such an amazing God and we love you. Help us to be willing to receive all that you have purposed in your plans to bless us with knowing that it is an answer to prayer. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Its Time To Wake Up and Get Up
"When Jesus entered the synagogue leader’s house and saw the noisy crowd and people playing pipes, he said, “Go away. The girl is not dead but asleep.” But they laughed at him. After the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up. News of this spread through all that region." Matthew 9:23
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
When you find yourself in a life or death situation choose life. Notice that once Jesus told the people that were crying that the girl wasn’t dead and just sleeping they laughed. Take note of Jesus's response, He removed everyone out of the room except His disciples and the mother and father. Why?
I believe Jesus wanted people in His presence who knew who He was and understood the power that He holds. Jesus needed some believers in the midst, people that were willing to trust with their whole heart and lean not on their own understanding. proverbs 3:5-6 Jesus wanted those who believed in What they didn’t see, He needed some "Faith Walkers" on deck. No doubters, nay Sayers or part-time believers in His midst.
Jesus Said that the child was not dead but merely asleep…My God!!! There are some people that seem like they are stuck in limbo. It appears that they are never going to go anywhere but its not what it seems. Remember we serve a gracious God that never gives up on us even when we are napping. The Father just patiently waits for us to wake up.
Brothas and Sistas, on this morning I declare and decree in the name of Jesus that every sleeping person in the body of Christ will not just wake up but Get UP!!!
If most of us are honest with ourselves, we know that God has told us to do something and we still haven't moved. Listen people of God, we are in the last days and there is no time to play around or to even be distracted with doubt. It's time to wake up Wake Up and Walk.
When the little girl got up Jesus told the parents not to tell anyone but He also told them to give her something to eat.
Brothas and Sistas, that sleep was so deep that she needed some nourishment to get her strength back. People of God even if you’re awake and you’re moving you are going to need some nourishment for the journey. I’m not talking about a cheese burger and some fries, I’m talking about digesting the word of God that is life and it will give you life.
The time to sleep is over!!!! Wake Up and Get Up!
Be Blessed,
Gina Murchison
Prayer Time
Father God, we just stand in awe of your grace and your power. We thank you for allowing us to see that you are in total control of both life and death. Father, please help us to wake up from the sleep that we sometimes find ourselves in as we walk in this Christian journey. God we desire to wake up and serve you with glory and honor. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Because You Loved Me
"Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.” 2That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh." Genesis 2:22-24
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
God has established marriage for the welfare and happiness of mankind and it is sacred under God. The plan was with God and only with God in our lives can we work anything out with joy. Brothas and Sistas, your joys are doubled since the happiness of one has become the happiness of the other. You can now divide the load of your burdens because you share them.
To my Brothas, you are blessed as the head of the home. He has blessed you to provide and will sustain you under pressure. May your strength be her protection, your character (who you are) be her pride and may you so live that she will find in you the haven for which the heart she truly longs for. Also my friend, love is for more than having sex with your wife. She needs all around love, affection, understanding, listening, caressing and communicating. When she is hurting give her a hug to show her you care and to assure her that everything will be alright.
To my Sistas, may God continue to give you the tenderness that will make you great, give you a deep sense of understanding, and a great faith in God. May He (God) give you that inner beauty of the soul that never fades; eternal youth that is found in holding fast to the things that never age. May you love your husband with understanding, love him with appeal, when he's tense caress him with your whispers of love, encourage him when he's weak, and pray for his decision making and leadership for the family.
Brothas and Sistas, understand that marriage is not living merely for each other, it is two people joining alliances to serve God. Purpose in your hearts to give each other a great spiritual purpose in life. May you both seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all the other things shall be added unto you both. (Matthew 6:33) Please don't expect of each other the perfection that belongs only to God. May you minimize each others weaknesses (bad habits or things that annoy you). In other words, don't be so critical of each other. Brothas and Sistas, be quick to praise encourage, and magnify each other's strengths. Learn to see each other through a lover's (the way you met each other) kind and patient eyes.
As God prepares a work for you in His will, learn to develop your character as you walk together in Christ Jesus. You will endure enough tears to keep you tender, enough hurt to keep you humane and enough failure to keep your hands clenched tightly in His. And my friends, enough success to encourage you both in your walk with God.
Brothas and Sistas, never, ever take each other's love for granted, as we so often do, but faithfully serve God and one another until you both may rest in the loving arms of Jesus. This is my charge to you both, husbands and wives. Amen.
Till next time take care.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Thank you, Lord for giving us the gift of marriage. May we never, never take our spouses for granted. Help us to walk in love and look beyond each others fault. May we surrender ourselves to you and one another wholeheartedly so that you may be glorified in our marriages. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
A Brew of Resting and Trusting
Romans 8:28 (NIV ")And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, whohave been called according to his purpose."
Psalm 42:5(NIV) "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
Proverbs 4:16 (NIV) "For they cannot rest until they do evil; they are robbed of sleep till they make someone stumble."
Proverbs 19:23 (NIV) "The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble."
2 Corinthians 12:9(NIV) "But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me."
2 Corinthians 13:9 (NIV) "We are glad whenever we are weak but you are strong; and our prayer is that you may be fully restored.
2 Corinthians 13:11 (NIV) Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you."
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters,
I pray that you have awoken rested and restored. Today's Brew is all about how we are to rest when everything seems to be spinning out of control. Let’s grab our Tea cups and head over to the Grand Brew Masters table to sip in the truths He has brewed up for us today.
I sit here today with you I have opened up my tea cupboard and have laid out some tea leaves that tend to keep me from truly resting and leaning into Christ for all that I need to be truly refreshed and restored each day. Let's examine them together as they may just be some of the same brews that keep you from resting and trusting in our Grand Brew Master, Jesus.
· Money
· Relationships
· Work
· Health
Now I am quite sure that there are many more Brews of Unrest and Distrust that lay upon our tables various tables today. So I have just taken the big 4 that I never seem to fully be able to release into the hands of the Grand Brew Master- Jesus Christ. How are we to move from a place of unrest and distrust in regard to these or other matters? As our verses say above it seems so easy and simple to just say I have given this to the Lord and He will now carry this burden for me. Yet He boldly tells us that it will not be that easy.
Have you found in your own life that there are just those certain few things, circumstances, relationships, guilt's, betrayals of trust and diagnosis that you simply don't seem to be able to leave at the foot of the cross no matter how many times you try? You are not alone in that there are things that I know that I simple can't seem to be able to fully forgive, accept, excuse or simply let go of. How about you?
Brothers and Sisters, the GOOD news here is that our Savior Christ, our Grand Brew Masters, knows and understands. He waits so very patiently for us to come to Him, Trust in Him and Remain in Him so that these burdens can be relieved for good.
I offer a bit of hope in this area for you today. I have struggles in these various areas daily. With the challenges of work, a blended family, financial challenges and martial challenges just like many of you. The hope I can offer is that I have experienced real life changes in some of these areas of unrest, by finally completely giving them over to the Lord. I had to learn to take and keep my hands off of these things and in doing so the Lord has blessed me with rest in and peace in some of these challenging brews. He didn’t necessarily change the situation what He changed was my perspective and my need to be in control of the situation.
I want to share with you the visual dream that the Lord gave me to help me see what I was doing and how all of it was winding back up on top of me and making me feel as though I was drowning in all the brews of challenge and heartache in my life.
I had a very vivid dream I was taking the trash out but instead of my regular hefty bags each bag had a name or circumstance or challenge I was facing or had faced, sins of my past and unforgiveness that was in my heart. As I struggled to get all these bags that seemed to keep multiplying I heard the trash truck on my street. As I approached it there was Jesus on the back of the truck with His arms extended yelling to me, "I am here I will take them all no matter what!" As I began to hand them over to Him I began to feel lighter and more free. As I got to the last bag, something switched off in my head and I began taking the bags back from saying things like, "I need to clean this one up a bit before I could expect you to take it Lord." or "Lord this is simply too much for even you to forgive me for, I must keep it." This went on until I was buried in all the bad brews. As I looked up Jesus and the trash truck were slowing driving away. I could hear Him yelling to me that He wasn’t driving away I was driving Him away and that He would always be there when I was ready to finally unload all the garbage and that none of it was too messy or terrible or unforgiveable in His eyes.
Since that dream I have learned that I am one the one who chooses whether or not to find rest and restoration in our Lord Jesus Christ. Here are some of the brews that He has and continues to help me leave at the foot of the cross for Him.
Family and Relationships- There have been countless times when I was either displaced in the physical sense from my family or completely emotionally detached from my parents and siblings as young girl. This went on for years and finally one day the Lord simply opened those doors and restored our family. Now this didn't mend all the pain or brokenness. There is still healing and mending going on 20+ years later. Yet each time I give the Lord one of these matters, and completely remove my hands from it He has restored it and made anew in amazing ways.
Finances-This is always an area that I have struggled with as I am not good with math and can in all honesty be a bit impulsive. However, when I remarried 7yrs ago on a Friday when my then new husband went to work on Monday he was laid off. He remained out of work for 2 yrs. Over these last 7yrs this has happened countless times. This was and continues to be a very challenging brew for me each time it has occurred. However, when I look back over the years and take inventory of the Brews of those years I can see God's hand in all of it, being our provision, being our discipline, being our best and only True hope.
Health- I have battled many illnesses of my own and had a very sick child when he was growing up; praise God he is a healthy young adult now. I battled with endometrioses, depression, anxiety, and infertility to just name a few. I must tell you that during these years the light of Christ was dim in my life, I contemplated suicide more than once. I recall the night that I finally said to God "I can't take this pain, and sadness and sense of loss due to the infertility not another minute." I truly heard Him reply in my heart that my days of joy were coming and that I needed to stop fighting with the past and allow His forgiveness of my darkest sins and unforgiveness for hurts in my life. He went on to say that it is always His desire to give us our greatest hopes and dreams. I can't explain any better than to say that after that very long night I awoke refreshed and encouraged. My health issues were not immediately alleviated and I certainly have had new health matters to face. Yet He did give me my greatest desire of my heart a couple years later; which was to be a Mom.
Brothers and Sisters, as God's Word says there is no easy way to overcome these struggles and that we must be intentional about sipping in the Truth of Rest and Trust in the Lord our God. He boldly tells us that world and principalities of evil who will come against us and intend to destroy and steal our hope, faith, rest and trust in Christ Jesus. We need to band together with other liked minded believers daily to be encouraged and prayed for and praying for and encouraging our Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, our Grand Brew Master.
Here are a few things I have used over the years to regain my rest and trust in our Lord Jesus Christ. It's my prayer that these help you or that God reveals His plan to lead you back to rest and trust in Him through our Tea Party today.
1. Place an empty chair in front of you and simply tell Christ as if you could see Him before you the challenges and matters of the heart and soul that keep you from receiving this brew and ask Him to guide you and help you. You may need to sit in silence and listen with your spirit for His loving truth to see you through.
2. Take a balloon and a marker and write upon it all your hurts, worries, anxieties, unforgiving thoughts, fears etc... Then simply say a prayer and allow the balloon to make its way to heaven. Then ask the Lord to release these matters from your spirit and then trust that He has done what He promises.
3. Take a balloon and write upon all your needs and hopes and dreams and say a prayer and send it to the heavens to our good, good God Then simply say a prayer and allow the balloon to make its way to heaven. Then ask the Lord to release these matters from your spirit and then trust that He has done what He Promises.
Lastly, through this process you must be completely in the mind set of surrender, and you must consciously remain in this place of surrender every time the enemy comes for you, as he will keep coming. How I prepare for these battles is I have index cards with God's truths about the matters I have released to Him. Then as the attacks come fast and furious I am able to pray His words over the attack and His truth will always win the battle.
I pray that we all practice staying present in the moment and being filled with God's leadings in our lives. May we each depart this tea party with as many Brews as we each need for today's battles. May we be prepared and armed with God's Brews of Truth, Hope, Restoration, knowledge and belief that God will be victorious no matter how we feel or what circumstances we are in. As we are never alone and never separated from our Savior Christ Jesus.
Till next week, Love and Rest I pray for each of us.
Love,
Tabby
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
Watch "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made - Matt Redman" on YouTube
Song): Fearfully and Wonderfully Made - Matt Redman
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Have you ever noticed the creases of skin on your knuckles? I did about two weeks ago. Honestly, I really never noticed them before. They were just a part of my hand that I paid no attention to. But when I folded up my fingers, I saw how the excess skin disappeared.
I noticed that when I blink, the skin moves to assist my eyelids in moving. When I bend my elbow, the skin moves effortlessly, too. The skin folds have a unique purpose for our good and yet they go almost unnoticed. It made me stand in awe of the goodness of my God!
I know it seems like a small thing to take notice off but the real value is that God created us this way. And He took the time to think of all of these features to assure that the human body is able to function at its optimal best. There was a time, when I couldn’t move anything. I was bedridden for months. I had to practice blinking, yawning, and moving my limbs. I even had to practice sticking out my tongue because it too stopped moving.
God met with me every night at 2 a.m. so I could practice opening my hands because they were permanently closed. It took me years to recover but I am so gratefully that God took the time with me, personally, to show me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. And I thank Him for taking the time to be my healer and physical therapist.
Prayer:
Father, I thank You, for you have made me like You. You have created me in Your image and likeness, and You have blessed me to function like You. My body is a loving representation of Your glory. May I use all my members to glorify You daily. In thename of Jesus. Amen!
The Persuit of Excellence
"Therefore my dear brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lords work, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." I Corinthians 15:58
Good morning my Brothas and Sistas,
In order for us to pursue excellence we must first understand the meaning of excellence. Excellence means the fact or condition of excelling, superiority, surpassing goodness. Perfection means the act of perfecting, completion, fulfillment, finishing, ending, impeccability, flawlessness, and faultlessness. It is amazing how we excel in basketball, football, baseball, cooking, grooming ourselves, jobs, and businesses but there is little excellence in pursuing godliness. Instead we pursue perfection in the areas that the world deems important.
Listen Brothas and Sistas, perfection is not attainable and chasing it is pointless. Excellence on the other hand means not letting yourself off the hook, not cutting corners where it counts, and not coping out. It is being extraordinary which requires doing extra....and guess what? Extra isn't always easy. If you want to be a cut above your competition or to be an expert in your field or have a name that stands out among your customers or clients then you must strive for excellence. You have to know when you are giving too much attention to things that don't really matter and when to give extra attention to those that do.
II Corinthians 8:7 says, "But as you excel in everything, in faith, in speech, in knowledge, and in all eagerness and the love from us that is in you, make sure that you excel in this act of kindness too."
I Thessalonians 4:1, 11 says, " Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk) that you may excel still more..... So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God." NASB
Matthew 23:37-38 says, "Jesus said to him "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind, this is the first and greatest commandment."
Brothas and Sistas, from these verses it clearly shows that God wants us, His people, to abound or excel in both what we are (inward character) and in what we do(behavior or good deeds). It seems obvious that there is no way one can love God with all his heart without seeking to do his or her best to the glory of God. You see the pursuit of excellence is both a goal and a mark of spiritual maturity. However, for this to be true, the pursuit of excellence must be motivated by the right values, priorities, and motives. If we go astray the the pursuit of excellence can quickly become a mark of immaturity and a result of our own obsession with our own significance.
Brothas and Sistas, excellence means being your best. Excellence means being better tomorrow that you were yesterday. Excellence means matching your practice with your potential. Pursuing excellence comes from doing the best we can with the gifts and abilities God gives, giving our best to the glory of God. But it is done without the spirit of competition or seeking to excel simply to be better than others. Excellence includes doing common everyday things but in very uncommon ways regardless of whether people are watching. The reality is that God sees our work and rewards us accordingly.
"Therefore my dear brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lords work, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." I Corinthians 15:58
God Bless,
Minister Antonio Washington
Its Time To Wake Up and Get Up
"When Jesus entered the synagogue leader’s house and saw the noisy crowd and people playing pipes, he said, “Go away. The girl is not dead but asleep.” But they laughed at him. After the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up. News of this spread through all that region." Matthew 9:23
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
When you find yourself in a life or death situation choose life. Notice that once Jesus told the people that were crying that the girl wasn’t dead and just sleeping they laughed. Take note of Jesus's response, He removed everyone out of the room except His disciples and the mother and father. Why?
I believe Jesus wanted people in His presence who knew who He was and understood the power that He holds. Jesus needed some believers in the midst, people that were willing to trust with their whole heart and lean not on their own understanding. proverbs 3:5-6 Jesus wanted those who believed in What they didn’t see, He needed some "Faith Walkers" on deck. No doubters, nay Sayers or part-time believers in His midst.
Jesus Said that the child was not dead but merely asleep…My God!!! There are some people that seem like they are stuck in limbo. It appears that they are never going to go anywhere but its not what it seems. Remember we serve a gracious God that never gives up on us even when we are napping. The Father just patiently waits for us to wake up.
Brothas and Sistas, on this morning I declare and decree in the name of Jesus that every sleeping person in the body of Christ will not just wake up but Get UP!!!
If most of us are honest with ourselves, we know that God has told us to do something and we still haven't moved. Listen people of God, we are in the last days and there is no time to play around or to even be distracted with doubt. It's time to wake up Wake Up and Walk.
When the little girl got up Jesus told the parents not to tell anyone but He also told them to give her something to eat.
Brothas and Sistas, that sleep was so deep that she needed some nourishment to get her strength back. People of God even if you’re awake and you’re moving you are going to need some nourishment for the journey. I’m not talking about a cheese burger and some fries, I’m talking about digesting the word of God that is life and it will give you life.
The time to sleep is over!!!! Wake Up and Get Up!
Be Blessed,
Gina Murchison
Prayer Time
Father God, we just stand in awe of your grace and your power. We thank you for allowing us to see that you are in total control of both life and death. Father, please help us to wake up from the sleep that we sometimes find ourselves in as we walk in this Christian journey. God we desire to wake up and serve you with glory and honor. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Those Damaging Soul Ties
"Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh" (Genesis 2:24).
Brothas and Sistas, we are going to take a break from our testimony and concentrate on expounding on the issue of family involvement in our marriages. We want to look at the family from God's point of view and talk about a phenomenon called unhealthy soul ties. The bible says, the husband is to leave his mother and father and cleave to his wife so that they may become one flesh. When it comes to the husbands immediate family his wife and children should be his primary focus. Whenever there is a strong connection with the family after holy matrimony has taken place between husband and wife there is a real strong possibility that there may be an unhealthy soul tie present that needs to be broken.
From the very beginning God’s intention has been that the man and woman’s soul ties with their parents should be broken prior to marriage. If this soul tie is not broken before the marriage it can have damaging effects. One problem could be that you are so busy comparing your spouse to your mother or father you can't even enjoy your spouse. Sistas, your husband is not your father. And Brothas, your wife is not your mother; so stop comparing the two.
The definition of a soul tie is the joining or knitting together of the bonds of a relationship. Godly soul ties occur when like-minded believers are together in the Lord: friends, marriage partners, believers to pastors, etc. Relationships that lack ‘God-centeredness’ can result in ungodly soul ties between friends, parents and children, siblings, marriage partners, former romantic or sexual partners, domineering authorities, etc. An unhealthy attachment with another can bring about a psychic control that can adversely affect ones life. Man’s soul consists of his mind, emotions, and will. A soul tie involves the joining of minds, ideas and views, as well as emotional unions in the feeling realm.
There are those mothers that will not let go of their adult children when they marry and become resentful and jealous of their new spouse. This mother will often find ways to exclude the spouse while holding on to and uplifting her adult child. This is meant to create division within the marriage in hopes of causing enough confusion so that the other spouse will become frustrated enough to walk out of the God ordained partnership.
The spouse can be manipulated into being there for the family. Often the invitation will be extended to one instead of both parties. This gives place to the enemy because it makes the other spouse feel left out. There have also been some instances when the spouse's family will shower them with extravagant gifts while on the other hand giving their marriage partner a cheap gift not fit for the neighbors pet.
Brothas and Sistas, these are just a few examples of unhealthy soul ties. We will continue this discussion next week. In the meantime here is a question for you to ponder. Are there any unhealthy soul ties in your marital relationship? See you next week. Take care.
Minister Antonio and Sista Michelle Washington
Teatime with Tabby Brew of the Lord's Power
Genesis 18:18 (NIV)"Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and all nations on earth will be blessed through him."
1 Chronicles 29:11 (NIV) "Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all."
1 Corinthians 4:20 (NIV) "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power."
Ephesians 3:7 (NIV) "I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power."
Colossians 1:11 (NIV) "being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience."
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters,
I pray that this blizzard we have experienced here in MD has been nothing more than a nuisance to you and your family. I must give God praise and thanks that my family and I have all been safe, warm, fed and full laughter through this storm. Now this doesn't mean there haven't been storms of life but God has provided even through them in this wintery mess. I must also give Him great thanks and praise for the gift that He saw to it for me to receive a year ago this week. One year ago, He gifted me with a brand new knee, the entire knee. After many years of pain and surgery, swelling, ice, heat, medication and therapy that all failed I received my new knee Jan 25, 2015. Let me share with you a little about how this ties into the brew God has prepared for us today. Let's grab our Tea Cups and seek to understand how in our greatest weakness the Lord's Power can and will always be more than enough to see us through.
As I began to share I have never had strong knees. I always remember them just not being like others. They were knobby and never very strong. Friends could run and run and be just fine, not me. I was the one in gym class that always made everyone run an extra lap because I just couldn't keep up. This was true of me when I was in boot camp too and advanced training for the military.
Now there was one thing that my knees were really good at as a kid. I could tie my legs up in knots and walk about on my knees. I'm guessing now that this may have lead to their demise. Well enough of that.... I want to share with you the great Power that lives within each of us. That is if you have chosen to accept Christ as your Lord and Personal Savior. What follows is one example of how the Lord revealed to me how to tap into that very power that resides within each of us always.
As I said, I am celebrating 1 year with my what I like call my bionic knee. Now it's not actually bionic but to me it is. Through this surgery and recovery I had to learn and decide who was my Brew Master. I had to learn and decide who was I going to rely on to get through what at times I thought was going to kill me. I would be lying if I said that I didn't lay in that hospital bed, on that PT Table, on that bicycle, and at home in my husband's recliner and beg the Lord to take me home. The pain was just that intense at times. Yet, I can sit here now and rejoice in that pain and relish it all. I don't know if you have ever been so far beyond what you, your mind, power and strength can manage or not. It doesn't necessarily have to be physical pain. It certainly can be emotional pain. It's a pain where your soul has no other options but one of these two.
1. To cry out to the Lord and God Creator of your soul, mind and body and completely and totally surrender everything; down to the next breath you need to survive.
OR
2. To completely give up and surrender to the pain and allow the Evil One to direct your next steps and fill your mind, body, and soul with more pain, anger, frustration and blame.
Now Brothers and Sisters, these are two very different outcomes. One you invite the Master of your Tea Cupboard to come in and pour His strength and endurance into you. Two, You surrender to the Brew of Spirit Filled Power. This doesn't necessarily change the circumstances or make everything perfect but I promise you that you will find refuge, release and comfort here. I assure you that this is true. I laid in that bed many nights and days and begged the Father to take me or take the pain. EVERYTIME when I stopped trying to make the pain stop or stopped scheming and planning He took over and I found refuge and relief from the pain and suffering. What a difficult Brew to accept and sip upon but it is worth its weight in sweet surrender.
Now Brothers and Sisters, I would remiss if I didn't share how often I have chosen the other brew in my lifetime. I have sipped upon this powerful brew that is nothing more than poison too many times. To be completely honest, I am probably sipping on it right now in certain situations in my life. I so desire to pour this brew out. As this brew brings nothing but more heartache, more physical pain, and suffering. The lies begin to swirl in and around in your cup. You can see them curdling your cream. You can feel the burn deep in your soul as you sip this in. Why then do I/we allow the Evil One to serve this up for us? Why do we not simply pour it out and not so much as take a sip?
I wish that I had the answer for that for you and me. It's an answer that I know can only come from the Lord. I am beginning to understand that if I don't want to drink that sour brew I must stop, drop and pray as soon as I see it curdling before me. I can't wait till I have tasted it to be sure that my eyes weren't tricking me. I must trust that small still voice within me. I know that this voice is the Grand Brew Master's Spirit that resides within me and if I choose to listen to it more and rely on it more that it will grow. I know that this voice will become louder than the one that screams out to me, the one who intends to fill me with self righteousness by offering offenses of others such as, "You have been offended." or "You have been hurt."or "You have been abandoned," or "You were given less than quality parts and life." If I/we choose to focus on these swirls in our Tea Cup we will surely turn as bitter as the brew that resides in these words.
Brothers and Sisters, what I want for each of us to take away with us today is to know that the Brew Master of our Souls will NEVER pour sour milk or bitter brews. Life may serve up some bitter brews but the Grand Brew Master can take them and turn them from Bitter to Better and Better to Best. We simply must trust that the Power of the Holy Spirit to change our lives, circumstances, and eternity. We must remember that truth, love, and salvation come to us from only One, Truly Powerful Brew Master, Christ.
Here are some practical ways to be able to tell if the Brew you are sipping is filled with the Power of the Spirit of Christ or the power of the Evil One.
1. Take the circumstance to God and ask that His Holy Spirit reveal to you what this is.
2. Stay in prayer about the circumstance. God will reveal Himself and His plans to you.
3. Have prayer partners praying for the Truth and Power of God to be revealed to you.
4. Most importantly compare the Brew before you to the Word of God. If there is any discrepancies then know immediately that this is not a Brew of the Power of God but rather a deception meant to sour your spirit. Praise God for the storm and continually seek to see His Power and Faithfulness in and through all things.
In closing today, as our Tea Party comes to an end for this week I must thank all the hands and feet of Christ that came and cared for me and my family while I recovered. I must thank the amazing surgeon, team, and all the healthcare workers that got me back to even greater and better than I was a year ago. I must also thank my husband for his love and support throughout this past year. Lastly, I must give all the PRAISE and GLORY to God for gifting me the new knee. Also for the many trials, failures, and success that have brought me to this Brew of Power in and through the one and only True Grand Brew Master, Jesus Christ.
Till next week, be sure you know who is pouring the Brews of life for you. Don't forget where you can go and get the most Power Filled Brew. The Brew of the Power of God that you will always need and can always depend upon. This Brew can always be found at end of yourself and the foot of the cross.
Love,
Tabby
Trust God for The Resolution
"Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds for you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish it's work so that you may be mature and complete not lacking anything." James 1:2-4
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
It is so true that many times we are hit with trials from out of nowhere. And quite often we wonder where God is in all of it. There are times when we doubt God, especially when going through times of testing. And then He so lovingly shows up on our behalf and we learn how to trust Him in spite of what we see, hear and feel. We have moments of doubt because we desperately want to believe Him.
Brothas and Sistas, doubt is a feeling. Belief is a choice. Choose to believe Him today regardless of what you see, hear and feel. He is well able. "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self discipline."
Brothas and Sistas, are we thinking to much and not trusting in Him enough?" Do we believe in God's truths or Satan's lies? Is He greater in us than he who's in the world? Are we holding to His truths? John 8: 31-32 , says, "To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, If you hold to my teaching you are really my disciples, then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."Fear is crippling. It will have you holding onto that tangible thing. But when you walk in the Spirit, with the Holy Spirit, He will lead you to opening your heart and mind to the infinite possibilities of God.
As believers in Christ we always say, "He's more than able, but don't we all have moments of unbelief and then the Holy Spirit brings back to our remembrance all that He has so graciously delivered us out of? At times when we are so crippled with fear, we feel like we're being punished. Brothas and Sistas, have you ever caught yourself saying, "Oh Lord, why me? What did I do to deserve this?" But God is not the" I'm gonna get 'cha God." He loves us.
I ask you, "What do we have to fear? I believe we give people, situations, and the devil to much power. We have the power of the Holy Spirit within us. "For verily I say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith." (Mark 11:23)
Satan will use every tactic he can to consume us with fear. I mean, have you ever been lied upon or lied to? That's just who Satan is, an accuser of the brethren. But as Christian Brothas and Sistas, we know a God who never lies, sleeps or slumbers. "If he be for us than who shall be against us?" "No weapon formed against us shall prosper." - past, present or future. We have to know that devil is a liar straight from the pit of hell! Brothas and Sistas, claim your victory today. James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." That excites me so!
Speak life into your situation and trust God for the resolution!Romans 8:1 says, "Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Amen Praise be to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Praise Him in His greatness!
"Trials come our way to make us stronger, so that we may become better and not bitter!"
Prayer for Today
Dear Lord,
Help us to look to the hills for which comes our help. Our help comes from you. Thank you for being our defence and strong tower in whom we can place ALL our cares. We love you Jesus. In your precious name, Jesus, we pray. Amen
Learning to Let Go
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Life's lessons are so hard to learn at times. There are times when I would rather hit the reset button in order to avoid one of God's teachable moments. I do this especially when I know the end result can be painful. And I bet you do to.
One of those lessons just happen to deal with letting go of those whom we love. Brothas and Sistas, I know you must struggle with this too. There are some people that we love and admire so dearly that we are willing to disobey the promptings f the Holy Spirit in order to keep them close to us when He has clearly told us that keeping the relationship is more harmful than letting go.
Brothas and Sistas, we must learn to let go of people not only for our good but for their good as well. Believe it or not holding on is a form of idolatry. Anything or anyone that we cling to over doing God's will we unknowingly put in His place. His will should always be at the core of our Christian walk. It so easy to place people on the throne and develop unhealthy codependent alliances of which we can find ourselves compromising the very convictions that we are supposed to hold high.
Here is the question I pose to you.... How much of God's will are you willing to compromise at the expense of receiving His best because you are holding on to a relationship that He has clearly told you to let go of? Brothas and Sistas, learn to let go. Letting go not only brings you new found freedom but it frees the one that you are trying to hold on to. Amen.
Blessings,
Denise
Prayer of Faith
Thank you Lord for teaching us life's lessons. Help us to let go when we try so desperately to hold on to those you have told us to let go of. May we trust you more than we trust our emotions. We desire to have you and not people on the throne. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
A Brew of Faith and Blind Hope
Job 6:8 (NIV) 8 “Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for,"
Psalm 9:18 (NIV) "But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted(B) will never perish."
Psalm 25:5 (NIV) "Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long."
Matthew 12:21(NIV) "In his name the nations will put their hope.”
1 Corinthians 13:7-13 (NIV) "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face.Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Christ!!
I pray that you each awoke with the hope and truth that we do have a reason to have hope, in our Savior Jesus Christ. Lets Grab our Tea Cups and head over to the Grand Brew Masters table and receive what He has brewed for us today.
Hope and Blind Faith are words that the worldly use to describe our Faith in Christ. I'm not sure about you and your circle of friends, family, and co-workers but this lie is perpetrated continually in the media and, in some of my circles of my life. How do we respond to such word?. Have you heard, "Why would you have Faith in a God that allows the world to be this messed up?" How do you have Faith in a God you can't see? Have you heard statements like, "If your God is so faithful then why do you face adversity?" This list of slanderous statements and misconceptions about our God continue on and on by those who don't know Him.
How do we respond as Christians? What Brews do you turn to when faced with this kind of angry mob in your world? How would Jesus ask us to respond? How do you rectify all this in your own soul, heart and mind. I won't be deceptive here these are tough questions, yet they are foundational to our faith, our hope in Christ and our influence on those outside of our faith.
I don't know about you but I have always had what many call it Blind Faith, yet for me it's not. I can look back over my life and see His hand in every circumstance. This is not just the pleasant memories or the joyous occasions. I can see His hand in some of the worst circumstances I have ever walked, crawled, cried and suffered through.
Recently in a small group study the discussion was around such matters. The Pastor teaching was Matt Chandler from Dallas Texas. He asked a very probing question about adversity that left me filled with questions and wonder. He asked have we ever considered the adversities in our lives, the trials the tribulations, as God's way of growing us? Growing our faith, growing our dependence on Him, and growing our thirst for more of His Brews of Love, Grace, Hope and Joy.
Take a minute and really consider this, "Could our loving Father and Savior allow some hopeless, even tragic times in our lives to help us grow deeper in our faith? To grow deeper in our need to for Him. Deeper still in the hope of our salvation? As I am sure, you can imagine this thought this concept stirred a lot of great discussion and even some debating.
Please understand that Matt Chandler isn't saying that we serve a egomaniac for a God, he is saying that in this life and in this world we will have adversity and trials as it's a fallen world we live in. Throughout biblical times God allowed our pride, our arrogance, our flat out disobedience to land us in places like slavery for hundreds of years and a flood that wiped out the world. Persecution for those who openly worshiped, taught and preached His good word. Paul I believe said it best, "Philippians 1:21New International Version (NIV)21 For to me, to live is Christ(A) and to die is gain.
Brothers and Sisters, what we must come to understand is that if we aren't being challenged in our faith, in our walk, in our hope it will be much easier for the world to gain influence over our lives. It will be much easier for the world to influence our actions, our Hope, our Truth, and ultimately our belief in Christ and the Grace and love of the Cross itself.
How do we go about not allowing the world to dictate what and where our Hope and Faith come from ? How do we ensure that the influence of non believes and their false belief that our faith is blind and without reason for hope? How do we choose to face the trials of life with Paul's attitude, that to live or die for Christ, figuratively or physically is better than not ever knowing our Lord Jesus Christ?
Here are a few ways that I remind myself:
1. When I see and feel myself entering into one of these seasons, I begin journaling. It is for me the best tool to be able to look back in and through the difficult season to see God's hand in it and throughout it as He will never leave or forsake me or you.
2. Find a prayer partner someone that you trust implicitly and have scheduled time for daily prayer the more we place our hope and faith in Him the more visible His love becomes.
3. Read the Psalms for me there is no place to start to be reminded that God loves us and will not forsake us.
4. Read the books of the bible that Paul penned. He is probably my favorite New Testament bible hero.
5. Remember to put on your Armor of God Daily. (Ephesians 6:10-18
)
I pray that till we meet again that we will each choose to remember that adversity can be a lifeline to a great fuller and more intimate relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ.
Love,
Tabby
Are You Building Up or Tearing Down
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
I was working on a book recently and God asked me to use a lesson that He taught me years ago to illustrate the value of building a secure home. It was "The Lesson of the Birds Nest”. At first I thought, "How is that going to help the Sista’s with building a strong, holy family?" Then I remembered the lesson that I had learned from the birds nest.
During a rough time in my life, when everything was such a struggle such as family, friends, work, school, and my health, I learned about the
wisdom of the birds nest. On my way to school one day, I was riding the bus which gave me the freedom to enjoy the scenery, when I noticed high atop a tree a birds nest.
I had traveled that way every day and never noticed the nest before. As the bus passed the trees, I kept my eyes focused on the tree-lines along the road and every couple of trees I would notice more birds’ nests. The fact that there were so many of them surprised me, but what really caught my attention was that they were so high up in the trees. Another day I got a special treat along that same stretch of road when I noticed an eagles nest sitting high atop a utility pole. It was huge and I thought, “Wow!”
God whispered to me, “Have you ever noticed that the birds and eagles don’t build their nests low in the trees, they are always near the middle or near the top?” Before He asked, I hadn’t noticed. But now it made me think, "Hmmm, I wonder why?" I rationalized that it would only make sense to build them low to the ground instead of way up in the top of the tree. Then God interjected and explained, “It would make sense to you as a human, but as a bird or an eagle it makes sense to build far away from other predators that could invade the nest.
Building low to the ground would compromise the safety of the nest and the birds that dwell in them.” I had never thought about it that way. But then I began to ask more questions about the nest and God revealed some wonderful answers. He taught me about building a safe nest (home) and that, by His wisdom, the birds have the ability to build the nest, and it’s innate within them. They don’t use hammers, nails or a blueprint, they simply follow the wisdom of God. And that’s exactly what we should do when building our families and homes. I thought about the fact that the birds and eagles don’t have hammers and nails, all they have and all they need are their beaks, twigs, and God’s wisdom. With these resources they construct some of the most intricate structures in nature. It’s amazing when you think about it.
One day while I was riding I looked up as I do regularly now, to see a birds nest hanging from a tree. My first inclination was to become sad, but God showed me that even though the nest was hanging from the tree, it was still in the tree. Then He went on to teach me that, the birds nest is a secure structure when built on the specifications of God’s wisdom. The only thing that will demolish or interfere with that structure is a man made or natural disaster. It is structured to withstand high winds, torrential rain, and even snow.
From the lesson of the “birds nest” I’ve learned that without the proper guidance from God we will never have stable secure homes and families. It takes God’s wisdom to help us see that a home worth living in is a home not built with human hands. Its foundation must be setby the Word and wisdom of God. He has the blueprint to our lives and only He can instruct us in how to build (create) safe and secure families and homes.
Can you just imagine the kind of wisdom and the time it takes for a bird to build a birds nest? The gathering of the twigs and the intricate details that must go into laying each and every twig in exactly the right way to ntertwine them for stability so that the nest won’t be blown away. Or they could just go and get a bunch of twigs and drop them wherever and tthink nothing else about it, until the storm comes and the winds blow. But at thatpoint it will be too late and they won’t survive the storm.
I have found out that love (God) is in the details. God has made sure that those little birdies would have a safe place to live. He didn’t stop with themand He’s done the same for every creature in nature, especially the ones He dearly loves, us. Because Love (God) is in the details we need to mind the details. Sometimes we create families and homes with all the wrong kinds of people for all the wrong kinds of motives.
Then we find ourselves suffering in our own homes, when our homes should be our rest haven and a shelter from the storms. Proverbs 4: 5-9 reads, “Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have get understanding. Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you. She will set a garland of grace on your head and present you with a crown of splendor.”
Proverbs 14:1 reads, “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.” We need to be sure that we are building our house, not destroying it. For my single Sistas, this means, choosing a suitable mate. Give thought to the right kind of man God wants for you to create (build) a secure nest (future) with. For my married Sistas, be sure to respect your husbands and raise your children in the fear and admonition of the Lord. This way you will strengthen your family and secure the nest (future). Just as God has given the birds a safe and enjoyable home, He wants us to have even more. Be mindful of how you’re building your nest (home).
Love,
Audrey
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank you for our families. We praise you for giving us a safe haven we call home. We pray that our precious Sistas would learn how to build up their homes instead of tearing them down with unwholesome speech or thoughtless deeds. Help them to build into their families by speaking wordsof life. Give them the wisdom to know how to strengthen their families with kindness. We pray all these things in your precious name. Jesus. Amen.
"You Love Her More Than Me"
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8, NIV).
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Brothas and Sistas, do you remember sibling rivalry when you were growing up? I do, and I remember what caused it. Jealousy! The green-eyed monster. That thing had my sister hating me and me really wanting to beat the mess out of her. And it all began with her perception that I was the favored child. For me I saw it differently; she was the favored child. She got what she wanted, when she wanted it, regardless of how much it cost. In the 70’s she got $35 shoes because she had big feet, and expensive taste, while my shoes were $12. But I settled for whatever our parents had. On the other hand while my parents cared for me more in my times of health crisis’s, which were many back then; my sister was left in the shadows of my needs. And she felt rejected.
Raising children is not an easy task. But raising children with different personalities and emotional and physical needs is even more daunting.
Where my parents couldn’t exactly give us the same attention at the same time, they did try to keep the balance of fairness; especially when it came to meeting the physical and financial needs. Like I mentioned before, when my sister got $35 shoes, I got $12 shoes. So
to keep things in proper balance, my parents would buy me two more pairs of shoes to keep the financial balance in check. My sister got the expensive shoes she wanted and I got two additional pairs of shoes. We were all happy.
It seems like an easy solution doesn’t it? But it isn’t, it’s a balancing act. As a parent you want to provide well for your children and you want to raise them with values, while at the same time teaching them to not be selfish and selfcentered. That’s not an easy thing to do, but it is necessary to strive for it. My parents not only took this approach with the shoes, but with all th financial issues concerning my sister and I. If I needed extra money for school, she got the same amount.
This is the one area of my childhood that I really appreciate, because it kept my sister and I equal. I never got more financially than she did. However; when it came to emotional needs, both of us lacked the attention we needed, because my parents just didn’t know how to meet those needs. Because they were not walking with God so he couldn’t meet theirs. But what they knew they did well.
For years my sister and I feuded over the issue of favoritism; she more than I. In her heart she really believed that our parents loved me more. After I gave my life to Christ, I sat with Him and we talked about it. I was all argued out and I had no defense. What He helped me to understand is that; our parents didn’t exactly favor either one of us. What they did was focus on meeting the individual needs. My sister’s need to look good was a primary value in her life because she aspired to become a model. For me the need was survival, I was sick and scared and I didn’t want to die.
Because God took the time to explain it to me, I was able to explain it to my sister. And now she and I are very close. We both realized that our parents loved us the best way they knew how as individuals. She now has two daughters and she realizes that their needs are different too. And just like us, her daughters think one is favored over the other. But that’s not true, they’re just loved differently, but with the same heart. Parent’s love your children equally while you meet the individual needs. Keep the balance of love.
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8, NIV).
Love
Audrey
Have You Acted Foolishly
"You acted foolishly," Samuel said. "You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time." I Samuel 13:13
“Choices will continually be necessary and -- let us not forget -- possible. Obedience to God is always possible. It is a deadly error to fall into the notion that when feelings are extremely strong we can do nothing but act on them.” ― Elisabeth Elliot
Good morning my Brothas and Sistas,
Do you know that there are those of us whom God will not use simply because we seem to think that we know best and go out on our own? When we do this, we in a sense expect God to follow rather than lead. We allow pride to rise and arrogance to lead. The end result is God will remove His presence from us and allow us to be unprotected from the enemies schemes.
Some of us refuse to believe what is being said when God speaks. We don't trust that He has our best interest at heart.
Remember Saul had this same problem and God would not use him either. "You acted foolishly," Samuel said. "You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time." I Samuel 13:13
God had already promised to deliver Israel according to I Samuel 12:22, but Saul's unbelief and disobedience came with a price causing God to have favor with one who had a heart for Him. In other words brothas, Saul cut himself off, not God. Saul's disobedience brought about consequences. And that's how it can be with us if we don't allow God to lead us.
“I think He made one law of that kind in order that there might be obedience. In all these other matters what you call obeying Him is but doing what seems good in your own eyes also. Is love content with that?” C.S. Lewis
Brothas and Sistas, don't act foolishly. Learn to obey His commands. God only uses those who seek after Him consistently and are willing to obey His commands.
"The true follower of Christ will not ask, "If I embrace this truth, what will it cost me?" Rather he will say, "This is truth. God help me to walk in it, let come what may!" A. W. Tozer
Take care until next time.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We are so thankful that you lead us and guide us in every area of our lives when we put you in control of the steering wheel. Please help us to release our will to you. More importantly, help us to obey your commands so that we will not be guilty of acting foolishly. We pray all these things in your matchless name, Jesus. Amen
The Importance of Waiting Part II
But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself." Proverbs 6:32
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Let's continue with our series. Another reason that we should tell our children to wait until marriage before having sex is the repercussions it may have on them emotionally if they have sex ahead of time. Emotionally - Quite often our children will become depressed after they have
given up their virginity and given themselves over to another person especially when that individual chooses to be with someone else other than them afterwards.
This type of hurt can cause some young men and women to commit suicide or have suicidal thoughts simply because they regret giving it (their virginity) up in the first place. If they stay together over a period of time they eventually cease from getting to know one another on an emotional level and the relationship focuses on just sex. In other words, "Just make mefeel good (sexually) and that's it." "When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures,.." Galatians 5:19
Brothas and Sistas, it has also been known and I, myself have seen this, even if the person is being treated badly by the other individual they choose to stay in the relationship because of the soul tie created by them having sex. Since they have been joined sexually they began to crave that over having someone respect them and their body. I mean, after all he or she was the first. Therefore, making it harder to break up with them. "Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, "The two will become one flesh." I Corinthians 6:16
I also know of some individuals who use sex as an escape route from the hurt and disappointments in their lives. These individuals will not allow themselves to mature emotionally. They also will not seek proper counsel to get the help that they need. "Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more." Ephesians 4:19
Brothas and Sistas, abstinence is not a bad thing. It's actually a good thing because waiting until you are sure of the individual that you believe God is sending your way will be a blessing and not a hindrance. "God's will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin." I Thessalonians 4:3
I want you to also keep in mind, couples who think living together first to see how it might work out, well the majority of the time they end up in divorce or never get married. "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body." I Corinthians 6:18
Next week I will share with you what to do if you have already done it or gone to far. I will also share the promises of God from His word and how to avoid getting caught up. Til then, my Brothas and Sistas, be blessed!
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
Thank you for being our Balm in Gilead. You can bring emotional healing to our children that have gone ahead of your will. Lord, your desire is that we practice sexual purity until you send us a mate and our desire today is to see our children walk in holiness. Please speak peace into the hearts of those that have given their virginity up . Help them to receive your unconditional love today in Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Let Your "Yes" Be "Yes" and Your "No" Be "No"
"Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one." Matthew 5:37
My Brothas and Sistas, as I was once told by my former pastor, "Character is who you are when no one is looking." Character is who you are striving to be and what you can be trusted with. Hmmm. Something to think about, huh? "For those who truly desire it, a good reputation and godly character is built patiently and not through devious or self-aggrandizing means. Based on this, reputation or a perceived good name is simply not enough without the character to accompany it.
Men and women of God, integrity is consistency between your actions and your inner condition over a period of time. John Maxwell quoted, " Integrity is the factor that determines which one will prevail. We struggle daily with situations that demand decisions between what we want to do and what we ought to do. Integrity establishes the ground rules for resolving these tensions. it determines who we are and how we will respond before the conflict even appears. Integrity welds what we say, think, and do, into a whole person so that permission is never granted for one of these to be out of sync."
Many of us, struggle with our identity in Christ and in a sense struggle with our character and integrity. It is all a process of, "Simply letting your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one." Matthew 5:37
Until next time.
Minister Antonio Washington
Dear Lord,
We thank you for our phenomenal Brothas and Sistas. Give them the ability to be men and women of character and integrity. We pray that they would know above all else that you have great plans for them if they be willing to surrender their lives to you so that they can be used to the upmost. Let their yes be yes and their no be no. Help them to walk in consistency by living by your precepts daily. We pray that they would walk in newness of life and learn to live the abundant life in you. We pray all these things in your trustworthy name, Jesus. Amen.
The Message of Grace
"For our sake he made him to be sin that knew no sin so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." I Cor. 5:21
Good morning Brothasa and Sistas,
Are you among the religious elite or saint? Saints recognize the true meaning of grace. The religious often focus on the judgment/ punishment/wrath of God coming on us for things we do and don't do and that is so far from the message of the New Testament; it is so far from the message of grace.
God poured all His wrath out on Jesus and there is no more wrath (penalty) for sin. The good news is Wrath WILL NOT fall on us. The consequences from the Father for our sins were placed on Jesus. He was the propitiation for our sins. So, the consequence we suffer is when we don't accept Jesus Christ as our Savior. We may reap what we sow when we do wrong but God no longer punishes us for sin.
When we try to make restitution for sin or try to make others feel guilty for sin we have missed the whole meaning of why He came. He is just in treating us as though we never sinned. Psalm 103:12 Now Brothas and Sistas, if He can do that for us why cant we do it for ourselves and others?....... If not for their sanity but for the sake of our own. Amen
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
Thank you for your amazing grace. We are grateful that we do not have to make restitution for our sins. You paid the penalty for our sins and we are no longer condemned. We praise you for rescuing us from the wrath/judgment/punishment of sin. We love you and honor you today for sacrifice. Help us to release ourselves and others from any thing that would try to condemn. For it is in the mighty name of Jesus that we pray. Amen
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"You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, you, God, will not despise." Psalm 51:16, 17
Top of the morning to you, Brothas, and Sistas
One of the most important qualities is holiness. Holiness is allowing ourselves to be set apart and separate.
Brothas and Sistas , don't get me wrong, we can't make ourselves holy, but we can progressively become holy only by the power of Christ and the Holy Spirit working in each of us. Isaiah 35:8 says, "And a highway will be there, it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk that Way. The unclean will not journey on it; wicked fools will not go about on it."Listen
brothas and sistas, God desires that our lives to be the road for others to be drawn to Christ.
We need a spiritual check up, which mainly deals with the heart. In other words, having a contrite heart is how humble and repentful we are
before God. Brothas and Sistas don't you know that God will allow circumstances in our lives to break us, so that we can have a love relationship with Him as He helps us repent when we need to. But as always it remains to be an act of our
will.
The prodigal son in Luke shows us that eventhough the son wanted all that belonged to him, he stepped away from the security blanket of his father,
after all that he went through he repented, he asked for forgiveness and
humbly returned to his father. Brothas, did you know that God can take a
heart that was hardened at one point and use the circumstances of life to Remember a proud heart exalts itself and the result is that we can become
independent from God but the heart that has been broken is like that of
Psalms 51:16, 17. "You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do
not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a
broken and contrite heart, you, God, will not despise."
Until next time. Take care.
Minister Antonio Washington
Our Daily Bread/Prayer Time
"You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure
in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and
contrite heart, you, God, will not despise."
Dear Lord,
We thank you for allowing us to see ourselves. Please help us to be men of
integrity. Thank you for using our brokenness to become men of character.
Help us to yield wholly to you daily. We pray all these things in your wonderful name, Jesus. Amen.
The Importance of Waiting Part I
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Today I am going to share with the singles as well as the married couples because this is profitable for singles, singles with children, and married couples with children. A few months ago I was granted the privilege of sharing with some Sistas as to why our young men and women should wait to have sex. It was interesting to find out that a lot of our adults don't see why they should tell their kids to wait until they are married as well as explain why they should wait. I've heard some say, "Well I give my kids condoms and let them know that if
they do have sex to make sure they use them." And yes these statements have come from Christian parents.
Brothas and Sistas, we say it's better to wait until marriage, but on the same hand we basically give them the okay once we give or tell them to use the condom. That's got to be confusing for any kid. If we say we are Christians we have to stick with giving our kids biblical advice and not do or say what the world tells us to do or say when we are raising our kids. "Let your yes be yes and your no be no." Matthew 5:37 I
truly believe that we should at least explain to them the reasons why biblically, physically, emotionally and medically they should wait.
Brothas and Sistas, I have explained in detail the reasons why. Let's take a look at them.
Biblically
1. Sex is an awesome gift from God and is reserved only for marriage. "Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and madulterers God will judge." Heb. 13:4
2. Having respect for yourself. The person getting you in bed without respecting you enough to put a ring on your finger does not genuinely care about you or your reputation. "You know the deal." "You know I love you." "I promise to marry to you." These are all sweet talk for the player to get his/her target to say, "Ok." and Bam!! It's a hit and run then they roll out on the person only to go to someone else and do the same thing but with a different line. "For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave. She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths wander aimlessly, but she does not know it. Now then, my sons, listen to me; do not turn aside from what I say. Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her house, lest you lose your honor to others and your dignity[a] to one who is cruel, lest strangers feast on your wealth and your toil enrich the house of another. At the end of your life you will groan, when your flesh and body are spent.You will say, “How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction!" Proverbs 5:3-12
3. Maintaining your reputation - Look Brothas and Sistas, whether you are male or female having sex before marriage gives people a different view of you in reference to what type of person you are. If you are a male, you are viewed as one who takes advantage of females. If you are a female, you are viewed as one who is easy to get. These viewpoints can make you feel cheap. "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy
people." Ephesians 5:3
Brothas and Sistas these are just a few biblical views on the implications of getting involved in having sex before marriage. I will continue this series tomorrow. Take care until then.
Minister Antonio Washington
Dear Lord,
We thank you for your precious word which convicts and teaches us how to walk in sexual purity. Help us to teach our children these same principles and values as we model them before them. Help us to collectively strive for holiness. May we cease from compromising your word. In Jesus powerful name we pray. Amen.
Teatime With Tabby - Tea Anyone? - Grace or Dormat
Acts 20:24 "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus
has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace."
Acts 20:32 - “Now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those
who are sanctified."
Good morning Brothers and Sisters and new Tea Party Friends,
Today it's my prayer that you each sense God's goodness and grace as you drink from the Tea Cup that He has molded especially for you today.
Today I wanted to talk about grace and what a sweet tea it can be, but at times if we don't have our hearts in the right place or we don't have godly boundariesset, it can be very sour. Grace can also flatten us up like a doormat. I come to you with this topic as it is one that God keeps working at perfecting in me. I love to have a grace filled Tea Cup all the time. I sometimes feel as though I have somehow earned this upon my own accord. God just sits so patiently on the hillside waiting for me to
come to the end of myself and realize a few very important lessons about grace and how it's brew can turn sour if we aren't careful.
Brothers and Sisters, here is what I believe He has been teaching me over the past few days.
1. I don't receive grace because of anything I have done to deserve it or earn it. That is a brew that comes straight from the blood of the cross.
2. I will receive less sweet graceful tea if I am not sharing grace with others in the same way and with the same heart as Christ did for me and does for me everyday.
3. That grace is a gift that was bought for EVERY PERSON through Christ and His Obedience to the Father.
Now I am not trying to be harsh here but God's word is very clear about this and I know from the depths of my heart how very hard that kind of grace living can be. It's interesting, I wonder how many of you would say, "Yes, I live outthis sweet nectar of a brew all the time?" My question to you, do we really do this all the time? Do we do this for those we want to impress or form those closest to us? Which of these does self reflection tell you is more true of your character? Which Cup pours out more easily? Both, neither, or a bit of each? I believe that for majority of us we do try to do it most of the time for both.
Yet there are times in our day to day lives when given that grace to those closest to us is a real battle. When we find ourselves here in this personal struggle we often rely on ourselves rather than inviting God in, not that He isn't already there. When it comes to our spouses, children, or parents. Sometimes we feel as if giving grace to them is being nothing more than a doormat.
Matthew 5:39- "But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also."Luke 6:29 "If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them." Now, I think many misinterpret these verses. God doesn't call any of us to be doormats. God has given each woman and man instruction on how to demonstrate love, grace, kindness etc..
So, how do we find the balance between grace and being a doormat? Well, I have struggled with this my whole life. Recently, God had revealed me to me in a way I can and I do better at this and believe that this is intended for all of us. We must examine the situation, turn off all the noise around us and in our own heads. We need to seek God and the Spirit and ask the questions that will reveal whether we are being grace giving or we are being doormats. Being a doormat is not a brew of Tea from Christ our Savior that is one that comes from Satan, himself. Here are few test that I have been given I believe from the Spirit to determine if I walking in flesh, being a doormat or not giving grace as God expects of me.
1. How does this situation match up to God's Word?
2. Have I taken this to God in prayer and been patient with waiting and maintained a quietness and stillness so that I can hear His wisdom?
3. What are motives for giving or not giving grace?
4. Do these motives line up with God's word?
Certainly if I or anyone else is in danger if I don't give grace and become a doormat this is too is not of God He would direct us toget in contact with a safety net or safe person or Your Sistas Saving Sistas Website as we have lots of women with a great deal of resources. Please be in prayer about this and seek God'sdirection on how to get yourself to a safe place
5. If I give grace here am I giving away anything precious that God has gifted me with?
6. Is giving grace in this circumstance going to have a positive or negative effect on the kingdom of God and the purposes He has put in my heart?
7. Lastly would Christ give grace in this circumstance?
Brothers and Sisters, I wish I could tell you I always get this right. Yet I don't and my fleshcomes out some days in ways that shock even myself. I find myself falling for old patterns that I thought I had been released from, have released, and turned over fully to God.
Example: I said something very hurtful to my husband this weekend over something that I was simply being fleshy about. I was feeling like there was an inequality going on within our relationship. Satan took that and planted his foot deep in an area of our marriage that is not as strong as God desires and is strengthening. The chaos that the Evil One has caused from a few words, that even after I said them I took them back and apologized with true sincerity and asked for grace.
Now to mend this fence that I broke by being fleshy and selfish whether he is or is not being the same doesn't excuse or give me permission to be so too. I am having to struggle with God and work out, "Is this a grace period or am I falling into a pattern of doormat time. I am seeking God's wisdom to reveal to me if I being a doormat or do I need to give grace in these days till the healing is received?
God shared with me to focus on His truths, 'Yes you have earnestly apologized,ou don't need to explain yourself away or continue to apologize. Yet you must let go of your feelings on inequity and your feelings that he isn't being fair or reasonable. However daughter you are not to be a doormat that is not what I gave you life for. Speak the truth in love, demonstrate honest honor and respect and seek a resolution that lines up with the principals of my truths."
Lastly, He said to me, "You are loved. you are forgiven. You are righteous in my eyes, and you are complete with my Spirit within your heart. Please dear daughter let my Spirit be your compass and trust your heart to Me and don't focus on where his heart is at or others. As they are my concern and my responsibility, not yours. Keep loving them and pour my Cup of Grace upon them in a manner that honors me and all will be right in my timing."
What a powerful sobering and grace filled message from Our Lord and God. Ipray that what He has shared with me will help you to have a grace filled heart,a tongue of truth, and heart filled with honor, love, respect and lastly, a mind that looks at inequity through God's formula not our fleshy derived formula.
Brothers and Sisters, go and share the love and grace of our Savior who waits ever so patiently for us to get our grace filled Tea cups and offer them to our own iniquities that have been redeemed by Christ's blood. Then to offer these cupsfilled with a Graceful Brew to the world and those closest to us.
Until next week, may God's grace and truth help you to sort out if you are sipping on sweet brew of Grace filled Tea or if you have allowed it to sour. Also please take me serious when I say that if you are in harms way God doesn't expect or want you to give grace in the midst of this situation and be a doormat for Satan's plan. He desires you to get somewhere safe, heal and give grace from a safe distance and to listen to the Spirit of Christ and wise counsel ofbelievers. You are too precious and loved by Him to be an abused doormat. Go and find your own healthy spirit and pray for the others. As God loves and forgives us all but forgiveness came at a cost and that was simply completely turning your life over to Christ and letting Him be the Lord of your life not your feelings or fleshy desires. My prayers and love go out to you each with love, compassion and a large super sized cup of Grace filled Tea.
Love in and through Christ Jesus our Savior,
Tabby
God's Glory in the Midst of Pain II
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Let's continue with our testimony.........................................................too soon and they weren't going to help. Well, we convinced her to go and
they checked her and the amazing thing is the medication was working. Her cervix was so far back they could barely find it but she was still having contractions. They said she was about 2 cm which meant she could stay there for a few more weeks but they sent us home and we ended up back at the hospital because the contractions continued. My "Tristan" was born at 14 ounces. She was a beautiful, tiny little thing
who looked so much like my daughter. She never cried but she had a heart beat for 2 hours.
So for the time that she was with us we held her and we took pictures of her. We gave her all the love we could. She was prayed over and baptized. And soon after she was gone back to the Father and we were left in so much pain. I was left with a daughter who had just lost her daughter. Watching my child in so much pain was devastating.
All of this was followed by anger, depression, and suicidal thoughts. It was just too much and I was so angry with God. I kept asking why. I just could not understand. I had done all that I knew to do. I prayed, I trusted and I had all the Saints praying. But the funny thing is, I still went to church. I still did what I was supposed to do but I was angry. I could not understand what was the point of all of this. And then I began to see the fruits of this painful situation. My daughter who already had a relationship with God continued to serve God even in the midst of her pain; crying, disappointed, and depressed. She never stopped worshiping Him. As a matter of fact, she has become such an awesome praise and worship leader.
God was able to reach parts of her heart that man could never reach nor could man handle. He reached that special place that is only reserved for the Father and His child. And prior to all of this she never wanted children or a husband. But this experience has given her such a desire to be a mother and a wife. She has recently come to understand that she is worth so much more than she ever could imagine and that God has awesome plans for her. She also learned any mate that God sends has to be able to handle what God has in store for her so he is going to have to be a man of God. To God Be The Glory!!!!!!
I also learned quite a few lessons I want to share with you.
1. I desired "Tristan" to be here but I never asked God what He desired. I never asked Him if what I was asking lined up with what He wanted to do. I was acting like a spoiled, selfish child who just wanted what she wanted but when my Daddy said, "No." I was devastated, maybe even a little crushed. But then the Holy Spirit reminded me that I, as a parent never gave my children everything they wanted because some things were not good for them at that time and so my daddy had to teach me the same lesson.
2. I learned that God's answer won't always be "yes" and that I would have to trust His decision even though it wasn't my desire. All things work together for the good to them that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28) I have learned to trust God on such a different level which gives me crazy peace.
3. I learned that you can only learn certain things from God, Himself. God tailors each situation for each individual. God knows exactly how He created us, how to get our attention, and how we will respond.
4. Tristan is not dead. She is alive and well with the Father and because we know Him as our Lord and Savior we will see her again. God allowed her to come into our lives to shake up some things up so that God would get the glory.
Well my Sistas and Brothas, that's all for today, but trust me there is much more to tell you as God is always doing something and revealing Himself.
Love,
Gina
Prayer Time
God, I thank you for each trial and each situation because it gives us the privilege of encountering you in a deeper way. We are so grateful that even when we feel like something is hopeless you never leave or nor forsake us. We praise you for working it out for our good. Thank you for teaching us that you operate in the what we don't see and teach us to put on our spiritual eyes so that we may see you in the midst of pain. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
What Do You Have In Your Hand?
Good morning my tenacious and talented Kingdom Brothas and Sistas,
I Kings 10:1-13
The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom. Matthew 12:42b
"And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry." Habakkuk 2:3-3 "
In ancient times it was customary to bring gifts to present during personal meetings. A visit to someone's home involved guest bringing a gift for the host or hostess. Believe it or not gift giving was one's way of expressing submission to those in authority. Many times a gift might be given to obtain favor or to bribe someone in a position of superiority. King Solomon was aman of great wisdom and he obtained many riches as a result of it. The Queen of Sheba heard about King Solomon and was somewhat amazed at how wise he was and how wealthy he had become. She had some serious business savvy and valued wisdom more than anything unlike some of us who would allow the pursuit of riches to trump the pursuit of wisdom.
Brothas and Sistas the Queen of Sheba realized that Solomon had an anointing on his lifeand she wanted to glean from His anointing. Even though this queen had made a name for herself she was in no way, shape, or form recognized as a hater of Solomon. She knew that she needed to be in the presence of greatness for one day she too would do great exploits. So she decided to rub shoulders with this great man of God and learn from him. And she arranged a meeting with the King to obtain some of his profound wisdom.
This tenacious woman was prosperous in her own right and wanted to honor the man of God so she gathered gifts for him. A gift is defined as a notable capacity, talent, or endowment or something voluntarily transferred by one person to another without compensation. When they met she transferred some of her most valuable assets to him without seeking monetary compensation. In other words, she did not just give the King any old gift but she presented her most prized possessions to the King without reservation (a keeping back or withholding).
Brothas and Sistas, most of us would have appeared before the king needy with a wish list, only to get all that we could get out from Him, void of giving anything in return. Let's take a hint from the Queen of Sheba for she brought something to the table. Most people are turned off when we always appear before them wanting something. Selfishness and greed were absent from her vocabulary. And because she purposed to give him her very best he in turn imparted what she desired more than anything, wisdom.
But there is one more very important point that needs to be addressed from this story. This woman believed in making wise investments. For you see if that were not true she would not have taken this very long journey just to put some real time in with King Solomon. She believed that whenever she invested something that she was sure to get a return on it. She knew that whatever she received was not just meant to be used for her alone.
This woman had her very own investment portfolio of which she had a written vision of goals that she was sure to obtain one day. "And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it willsurely come, it will not tarry." Habakkuk 2:3-3
She was indeed a visionary and understood the importance of investment strategies for she of purchased stocks, bonds, and money market instruments. She received much success and she knew she had to work it. She had to make it do what it do. I can imagine her being an awesome trades person whenever she went to market she ran with the big boys and traded her numerous stocks and bonds. A trades person is one who has made their trade their choice and takes the pains they have to learn it, make it their business to follow it, make other business matters conform to it, and lives on the profit of it.
And just as the Queen of Sheba was a phenomenal trades person so are we as daughters of the Most High. We not only can obtain stock of our own to trade to invest but we can trade or invest matters from our Master's stock. For whatever He places in us, whatever gifts He gives to us, whatever riches He bestows upon us, and whatever wisdom He imparts to us we are touse them for His glory, and His glory alone to invest back into His kingdom. It all belongs to Him anyway.
I have to ask you, "What is it that you have in your hand? " Are you presenting Him with your very best today? What are you investing into the Kingdom? What visions has He given you that you are waiting for the appointed time for them to come forth for His purposes? Are you using your wealth, spiritual gifts, and other material gifts for His glory? Jesus desires to have all that you have in your hand so that it may be used for the edifying of the saints, to do great exploits for Him, to prosper you, and to build up His Kingdom. Give Him all that's in your hand today.
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank for all that you have placed in our hands. Help us to use what you have given us to bless your wonderful kingdom and all of those that are in it. May we make wise investments so that we may fulfill the wonderful purpose that you have for us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Let Your Rain of the Word Shower Your Children
Your word, Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you
established the earth, and it endures. Your laws endure to this day, for all things serve you." Psalm 119:89-91
Good morning to my divinely anointed and appointed Brothas and Sistas,
There are times when we worry about whether or not the things we put into our children will stick. I had this experience for the umpteenth time just this morning. I had been praying consistently for my dear, wonderfully, awesome children again and the thought hit me, "Lord, I know that I have got to seesome fruit from all that we have been speaking into themsoon; REAL soon. Okay?" The truth is ever since they were waist high my husband and I have always tried to find ways to pour encouragement, the Word, and prayers into them. But if most of us as parents would be realhonest, many times when we look into their lifestyles we wonder if anything ever stuck at all. And I am sure that some of our parents thought the samething about us.
Psalm 119:89-91 says, "Your word, Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures. Your laws endure to this day, for all things serveyou."
The biblical definition of eternal means to endure without end. God's word, rooted in His being and will, is likewise eternal ( Psalm 119:89 ). It will endure without end. As long as God exists, so will it. So, no Brothas and Sistas, our words are not just bouncing off of our children and vanishing into Never, Never Land. "In the same way, the promise that I make does not return to me, having accomplished nothing. No, it is realized as I desire and is fulfilled as I intend." (Isaiah 55:11 The Net Bible) Whatever God's design is in giving the word, it shall be accomplished. Hisword is never spoken in vain and never fails to produce all that was intended.
In other words, the word is no more spoken in vain than the rain falls in vain. And though it often falls on barren rocks, or on arid sands; on extendedplains where no vegetation is produced, or in the wilderness, where no man is; and seems to our eyes in vain; it is not so. So shall His word be! Sistas, all the truth which God reveals is as much adapted to produce an effect on the
hard and sterile hearts of men (our children) as the rain is on the earth. "His faithfulness continues through all generations." (Psalm 119:90) This promise includes our children and their children's children. Don't be dismayed God has a design in each drop of His word that falls, even the drops that fall on our children as we shower them with it.
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank you for the gift of our children. We praise you for giving your precious word to us so that we may share it with them. Help us to be consistent in trusting in your faithfulness because your word never comesback void. Lord, we ask that you would place a hedge of protection around our children. Keep them from the schemes of the enemy. We pray that your
word would be so deeply planted in their hearts that they can no longer run from the effects of it. We pray all these things in your blessed name, Jesus.
Amen.
Saying Goodbye Without the Reassurance of Heaven Part II
Good morning to my Heaven Bound Brothers and Sisters,
Now Brothers and Sisters, I said that there were two brews that I was drinking from the Savior's Tea Cupboard; a brew of Hope for Salvation for before their last breath on this earth is upon them and the second is much closer in the circle of my life. This is a woman who I admire for the many gifts and talents that the Lord poured into her over her life span. Yes, she used these this gifts and talents He gave her for over 50 yrs. Many of those years were employed years where she cared for the sick and enjoyed being employed to do so. However, when she retired she knew that she still had the skill and ability to help others. She recognized a need for the skill setmthat God had granted her with. So for many more years she volunteered her time at a place that offered free care and she could once again help the sick and hurting. But now, she is the person who is sick and needs caring for. Yet the reality is that as wonderful of person she was and is still to this day, all the good deeds, sharing and using her gifts and talents aren't going to be enough for her to get the prize at the end of game of life, which is salvation.
If you and I added up all her good works there would be a staircase to heaven but the door wouldn't open for her. Yes Jesus hears us knock at the door of salvation, He often knocks and taps our tea cups to get our attention. We are then faced with two choices. Firstly, do we invite in Him because we admire who history tells us He is; a nice guy or maybe even a prophet? Or do we invite Him and ask Him to empty out all the brews we have made in life to overturn the Tea cup, Tea Pot, and Tea cabinet so that He can rebuild it and fill it with the Tea of Life -
Eternal life with Him? The struggle I face with this loved one of mine is that her heart and mind is captured and fully convinced that the truth of Christ is a nice story but the beliefs that her church have instilled are the real truths. I feel as though I have failed at sharing the gospel with her in a way that she can see that there is one true God, not many gods. There have been others in the family who have tried to share this brew of Truth with her too with no avail.
As we draw nearer to the end of both of these loved one's lives; that personin my life and the person in my friends life my question is: How do we keep from feeling as though we failed Christ by not being certain or simply knowing that they have received the truth? How do we keep trusting and believing everything that God has so generously put in the bible for us? How do we not allow Satan to come alongside to taunt us and tell us that we failed God, therefore we have fallen from His grace? Brothers and Sisters, first and most importantly, only God and Savior, Jesus Christ knows what turns a heart and soul. It may take them getting saved just before they have physically left us and are standing before the Creator of this world. We must stand firm on this or Satan will get in our heads and he could be pouring tea of despair, defeat, and loss of faith before we know it. Secondly, Jesus didn't come to this earth to die on a cross in such a brutal and dehumanizing death for us to take the credit for saving anyone. He is the only one who can offer salvation.
So let's not put ourselves in His sandals. Yes, absolutely, we are charged with sharing the gospel all of our lives withevery person we can pour a cup of truth, hope and redemption into. We just must never take the credit or the blame for someone else's salvation. Sistas, we must trust and believe what the Lord said that He is the sheep herder and He goes after each one who is lost. He will not ever give up or
forsake us. This is tough to sip on when you have shared the gospel with those you love and they are hearing it, yet not accepting it as far as youknow. We must hold tightly to Christ. We must share the gospel that is planting a mustard seed into their lives. I am not taking a hammer over their heads and hearts. When Christ gives me the opportunity to pour some water on that seed I do. If they are being receptive I will try and add some fertilizer. Yet at the end of the day, the last day, the last sip of tea, the last breath all belongs to Christ. I pray that His light in those last moments give the mustard seed the perfect amount of SON- Light for it to suddenly be in full bloom and ready for "The Gardner", named Christ. I pray that He is then able to cut off the past and dead branches that are no longer needed. I pray that in these final moments outside of my understanding and time that the branches bend down and say, "Yes." to the Lord's invitation.
So Brothers and Sisters, share the Brew of the Gospel with everyone you know and do it in a tender loving way. Then give it over to the Lord, Jesus Christ and ask that He please put them on a path that leads their hearts and minds only to Him so that once He arrives they will allow Him to prune their branches, heal their hurts, and assure their unrest. Pray that through this they will ask the SON to shine down on them and eventually the gospel truth you shared will be poured by them into another's tea cup. Brothers and Sisters, remember Christ doesn't expect us to save the world but only educate, encourage, come along side, support, love and pray for another. He will do exceedingly greater works and amazing transformations if we simply get out of His way. We need to be discerning from the Holy Spirit what our role is and then TRUST Christ to do the rest as He and His Father say it is not their
desire to see not one perish.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, please be praying for another, for whatever circumstance God has each of us in and that we will each be filled with the right brews for each circumstance. Pray that we are each doing our part in sharing the gospel witheveryone we meet. Pray for the loved ones that many of us have that are still lost, that they too would hear the Shepherd's voice and move towards it so
that He can do the Saving!!!!
This devotional this week is dedicated to my sister in Christ, Karen, who heard Christ's call and left her life behind to go and be the hands and feet of Christ. It's also dedicated to my husband in hopes that he will find the words to share the gospel with his mom in way that she will hear it. Also that God will grant him peace that goes beyond understanding. I pray that he is filled daily with hope and that Christ destroys the anxiety and sense of failure that Satan keeps pouring into him. May God be His Brew Master for all the days of his life. We love you Mom, Karen, and Walter. You are our family here and in eternity. May God bless, strengthen and comfort you each. May God's glorious plan be revealed even as much as glimpse to provide an extra measure of hope, comfort, and joy that only the Father, Son and Holy Spirit can offer.
In all these things, I pray that this was just the brew of encouragement you needed today to keep your hope alive to fill your Tea Cup straight from the Kings hand to your heart. May we each make it our purpose to gently share the gospel, plant those mustard seeds, and ask the SON to come fourth and shine on them to grow faith, salvation and redemption into the lives of all who have not been found yet. I submit this to the glorious Father, the Son Jesus Christ and thank them forthe opportunity to share with each of you today. If you ever feel the need to comment or discuss the Brew of the day, feel free to contact me through our
website or our face book page. As it's my heart's desire to be an encourager to women through my writing and pray that each time it's not my thoughts or words, truths on the page but rather Christ, our Saviors.
In all that He can do and has prepared in advance for us glory be to God!
Amen.
Love to all my Sistas in Christ and to all that seeking for the one truth thawill change their lives forever,
In God's Love,
Tabby
God's Glory in the Midst of Pain Part I
Matthew 6:33 Amplified Bible (AMP) "But seek aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides."
Good Morning Sistas and Brothas,
It is so awesome when you get in the presence of God and He speaks to you through His word. I have been seeking God like never before and God has showed up so powerfully in my life. Our relationship has shifted and it's not that God has changed but I have changed the way I address our relationship.
My prayer has been "more of you, God". But Brothas and Sistas, in order for me to have more of God I had to make time to sit at His feet and listen for His voice and direction. Over the last two years of my life God has allowed my life to consist of such turmoil and I kept asking God the question..."What Do You Want?" "What Am I Missing?" "Tell me what I need to Do!!!" and I have realized I was missing the whole point. I wasn't getting it. I knew God had plans for me but I allowed myself to get distracted with other voices/things that were not part
of Gods plan, so God allowed me to hurt a little more to get my attention, My daughter that was at college came home one weekend and she wasn't feeling well.
To make a long story short we found out that she was pregnant which was hard to digest at first, but like most families you get over the shock and move into survival mode as a family. We assured her that we would be there every step of the way. Then a few weeks later she went to have a sonogram done and we were so excited because we would know whether or not it was a girl or a boy. We found out that it was a girl and we were so excited. But right after the sonogram had been taken they sent us back to see the doctor and she began to explain that there was a problem with the pregnancy. My daughters cervix was too short and it was open a little. We were given options and me being me needed to know how this could be fixed. So they prescribed medication and we were scheduled to go to labor and delivery in 3 days.
They could possibly sew the cervix shut. We were told this may or may not work. We were given a paper with medical stats and
we were told that some people who have this issue decide to terminate the pregnancy and that was never an option for us. The baby's heart was so strong we knew that she was a fighter and we just prayed and we told the doctors that we would trust God, pray and use the medication. At that point she was 19 weeks pregnant.
Well my daughter began to use the medication every night. Each week on a Monday we would go see the doctors and each week that she was still pregnant we celebrated because we knew if she could make it to 24 weeks they would consider the baby "viable ". Brothas and Sistas, I have come to hate that word "viable" which in "doctor world" means that she had a better chance of survival at 24 weeks. But prior to 24 weeks they would not intervene in anyway as far as assisting with with tubes or oxygen or anything if she was born earlier.
Well, we did go to have the cervix closed but there was another issue and they were afraid to attempt the procedure for fear of breaking the water so we continued the medication and prayer and then on a Monday morning when she was 22 weeks I went into my daughters room and she began to tell me that she felt some cramps. So I asked the normal question, "How long have you been feeling them?'" and she said all night long but she didn't want to wake me up. So I told her to get dressed. I knew in my heart she was in labor but I didn't say it outloud.
I noticed after 20 minutes she still had not come out of the room so I went in and she was crying and saying she wasn't going because it was.....................to be continued.
Love,
Gina
God, Open My eyes So I Can See
Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water." Genesis 21:19
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Brothas and Sistas, it's amazing that even in the midst of our desolate, weary, worn and parched places God will allow us to not only see but partake in the water that only He can provide. Sometimes trials make it difficult to look past our pain and take hold of or visualize the blessings that He has right in front of us once we get past our pain. It was only when God opened Hagar eyes to what was already right before her did she see things differently than when she first perceived her circumstance. I love the fact that once He opened her eyes she saw water.
Water often represents a time of refreshment. Without water we could not live. When we are refreshed we often see things in a different light. When we are refreshed we think more clearly, we become more alert, more concentrated and more focused. The water He provides helps us to focus more on what He is trying to show us spiritually rather than what we see with our physical eyes. He desires to keep our reservoirs full of hope beyond hope regardless of what we are going through. His water will not only sustain our physical lives but our emotional and spiritual lives as well.
Therefore He will always provide water for us to draw upon in time of need. Don't allow what your going through to hinder your sight. Allow Him to open your eyes so that you may indeed see and experience profound refreshment.
"If your soul is parched and you need the healing power and satisfaction of living water, renew your commitment to draw closer to your Creator. Take time and be still and allow Christ's peace and presence to refresh your dried places. Enjoy the peace and satisfaction that only God's love can bring. " G C M Amen.
Dear Lord,
We thank you for giving us spiritual eyes so that we may see your miracles all around. May we have a greater commitment to draw closer to you so that our spiritual sight may become stronger. Thank you for supplying us with the water that quenches our every \thirst. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
The Art of Communication
For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the Savior of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." Ephesians 5:23-27
Good morning to our wonderful Brothas and Sistas,
Learning how to listen to our loved ones specifically in reference to our marriages is a learned art. There are times when our spouses are trying to communicate with us if we take the time to really hear what they are saying. Brothas and Sistas, if we be honest this communication thing can have our heads spinning at times. Even in marriage it takes years to get this thing down. My husband has this saying that goes like this, "We need to listen with the intent to understand what has been said without responding in a defensive way." We have to give the person time to finish all that they want to communicate.
Brothas and Sistas, whenever your spouse is trying to communicate a concern it is not the time to be thinking about your response. Learn to listen. Remember they need to be heard. We have to become astute students of what our spouse are trying to convey. And if you are anything like me when I first got married I could keep a brother guessing for days about all that was going on in this mind of mines. I was the quiet and shy type. On the other hand my wonderful husband was the talker in the relationship Most times I held things in and I automatically thought my husband through divine providence or osmosis could just read my mind. I was something else. And I was quite
upset with him when I found out that he did not have the capability of knowing what was in my heart without me having to tell him.
I often kept silent about the things that would irritate me to no end. After going through a year and a half of being separated from him and on the brink of divorce due to lack of communication I quickly came to the profound conclusion that I needed to speak up about some things after the Lord miraculously brought us back together. If I wanted my marriage to work I had to learn how to be transparent and communicate the things that were in my heart. Can I get an Amen?
Brothas and Sistas, as I was pondering this word for today I thought about the times when my husband and I are chilling out together and I may get an itch on my back that irritates me to smithereens. Now in order for my husband to get to the spot I had to indicate to him exactly where it was. There was no way that he could know how to relieve me from the irritation until he knew the exact spot he needed to scratch. In other words I had to give him specifics of it's location because there was no way for me to reach it on my own. I needed his assistance to achieve my goal of being free from the irritation. You get what I am saying?
And then there were those times when he just could not comprehend all that I was communicating about the irritation and I would go "Babe, you missed a spot." Brothas and Sistas, he had just concentrated his efforts into getting to that one spot, that one place of irritation and I had other areas that needed tending to. Those were the times that he had to keep trying until he understood what I was saying. It was not that my husband was totally clueless about what I was feeling but it was just that I needed to communicate my need in a different way. In other words I had to keep guiding him in the process until he gained proper understanding of my need without nagging or insulting his efforts along the way. And this is exactly what we do when we are trying to communicate our personal needs.
Our spouses are not mind readers. They need to know about those areas that irritate us and we need to properly communicate them. "Communication is the meeting of meaning.When your meaning meets my meaning across the bridge of words, tones, acts, and deeds, when understanding occurs, then we know that we have communicated. …When two persons can share from the very center of their existence, they experience love in its truest quality.
Marriage is a venture into intimacy, and intimacy is the opening of one self to another." (David Augsburger,Cherishable: Love and Marriage) We will talk more about this topic next week. Take care.
Sista Michelle
Prayer Time
We praise you for our beautiful mates. Thank you dear Lord, for teaching us the true art of communication. Help us to listen intently to our mates so that they can feel as though they are really being heard. In Jesus name we pray.
Teatime With Tabby - Saying Goodbye Without the Reassurrance of Heaven Part I
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters,
I pray that your Tea Cups have been filled daily not with your own brew but that of the Lord our Savior, Jesus Christ. I also pray in this moment for any new Sistas that have joined us today that you will allow Christ's love, comfort, redemption, sanctification, and salvation to wash over you and create a new you in Him. Today, I would like to talk about how we as believers are to share the gospel with others, as we should be doing all the time. I would like for us to direct our focus in evangelizing more to those we love and who are still lost sheep that Christ is searching for and their time is coming closer and closer to the end. I want to look at a couple of different brews here that Christ could pour in us to help those we know or love in this last bit of earthly time. Now I am not going to debate the theological debate; once saved always saved or the hope that many of us carry that once Jesus comes for our loved ones at their last breath and they can choose to say yes to Him. Yes, I personally keep such a brew in my tea cupboard having lots of family that don't choose to know the Savior and allow him to pour the tea of life into them daily.
What I sense God telling me to write about is how to go about it when given the opportunity to share these amazing brews with a friend or loved one or someone that we are the caretaker of. He also wants me to share how we are to stand firm in our faith when we're not sure if they definitively made the choice to accept Christ before they leave this world. How do we keep our own faith from being unraveled in this time of loss?
I have personally drank from this sobering pot of Tea. In my case I was still too new in the faith, such an infantile Christian when I lost two very beloved family members without warning. I just received the phone call that they had each gone in very unpleasant ways at the hand of Satan. I wrestled with God about these tow. I know that one of them knew Christ as a child but as an adult denounced Him all together. The other as long as I knew him was adamant that there was no God. I have wrestled with the many questions over many pots of Tea with the Lord about this, not ever really receiving a definitive sense of security about where these two people that I loved so much were now that they were no longer here on earth.
Brothers and Sisters, I am again facing a similar situation and have a friend who is in hospice. This man is in terrible agony not just from the pain of the disease. He is filled with anxiety about what comes next. I find another friend who is close to him and I looking at the same tea pots asking how do we get him to drink from this pot of tea. The Tea Pot that would fill his cup, take from his fear and anxiety about what is waiting for him when the disease wins. From this side of death we see that the are no longer able to choose the Pot of Tea of Redemption and Salvation.
My friend is so good at pouring this brew for the person she is caring for. Daily she asks the Lord all through the day to keep that Tea Pot ready to served at any moment. As she is given the opportunity to talk, share and provide truth, the only truth that really ever matters. The truth of a loving God who wants to grant us forgiveness of all the past and only wants from you trust in Him. Belief that He is who he claims to be once you make that choice. The Brews you two will share in eternity will be pain free and refreshing and filled with Glory and Praise.
Sistas, I would ask that you would be praying for this dear Sista who left everything behind and traveled across the country to be with someone that she knew, but more importantly someone who was lost.
A loved one of hers asked her if she would go to leave her world behind to go and be Christ to this man for the days and hours he has left. She is this amazing godly woman who heard God's cry for her and she left nearly immediately to go minister and be the sole care provider for this man till his last breath is taken. Her faith in Christ and simply amazing obedience and very inspiring to me. Jesus said, "Would you come." And she said, "Yes Lord, I will come anywhere you lead."
I will continue to talk about this some more next week,
Love,
Tabby
And the Walls Came Tumbling Down
Now Jericho was securely shut up because of the children of Israel; nonent out, and none came in. And the Lord said to Joshua: “See! I have given Jericho into your hand, its king, and the mighty men of valor. You shall march around the city, all you men of war; you shall go all around the city once. This you shall do six days. And seven priests shall bear seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark. But the seventh day you shall march the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets. It shall come to pass, when they make a long blast with the ram’s horn, and when you hear the sound of the trumpet that all the people shall shout with a great shout; then the wall of the city will fall down flat. And the people shall go up every man straight before him.” Joshua 6: 1-5
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
In the text God promised Joshua victory over the Jericho wall, but in order for the Israelites to get what God had promised them “a land with milk and honey” something had to come down, something had to change.... the wall had to comedown. Brothas and Sistas, many times God is waiting to give us something, but too much of something else is in the way. There was a wall hat stood between where the Israelites were and where God wanted to take them.
Is there anything in your life that seems like it’s going to be impossible to overcome? What is your Jericho? What is that difficult wall that challenges you? We all have one. Your wall maybe anger, unforgiveness, bitterness, laziness, jealousy, fear, finances, a struggling marriage or possibly it’s trying to find a job. Brothas and Sistas, anything that has set itself up in your life and has taken you hostage whether physically or mentally is a wall.
This wall, whatever name it goes by, can possibly keep you from experiencing the promises of God if you allow. In order for the Israelites to overcome the wall they were facing they had to follow the direction of God. The wall didn’t just come down because of the shout, their obedience made it possible for the wall to come down. They walked around the wall once every day for six days and on the seventh day
they had to walk around seven times and then came the shout.
Brothas and Sistas, it’s not just about our praise. We hear people say all the time,” When the praises go up the blessings will come down.” News flash, if we don’t listen to Gods' direction in our lives we can praise, shout, dance all we want, but that wall will still be standing. However, when we fall in line with Gods plan we will see the power of God move mountains in our lives.
My Brothas and Sistas, if we want to see the land of milk and honey in our lives we have a responsibility to be obedient to the leading of God and once we’ve done that it’s time to shout and watch as the wall comes tumbling down! Praise Him!!!!
Love,
Gina M
Prayer of Faith
Lord we thank you that you love us so much that you would even give us access to the land of milk and honey. Father, you are truly an awesome God. We thank you that you’ve shown us in your word how to bring the walls down in our lives. Please teach us to be obedient and sensitive to your voice in times of trouble. Teach us, Father, to see beyond the wall. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Are You Willing to Partake in Behind the Scenes Christianity
A fountain will flow out of the Lord’s house and will water the valley of
acacias." Joel 3:18 b
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There are many of us that desire to be used by God in some way or another. Many of us sit on our church pews Sunday to Sunday, month to month, year to year wanting to be used by God. Some of us become disappointed when
the same old people are being used and serve on several ministries. And as a result we become very disgruntled and a little resentful with our Pastors and ministry leaders for not using our God given gifts when they go unnoticed. And if the truth be told we often leave churches based solely upon that reason alone.
Many of us think that we can only be used within the four walls of the building called church but I want you to take heart today. God has a ministry just for you. Sistas often times ministry may be right at your finger tips, in your backyard, on the phone, in your neighborhood, or within the community, etc., My husband and I are foster care parents as well as leaders in our local
church. And when we have afternoon church services we are expected to be there. Well, not too long ago we were having an afternoon church service and it just so happens that DSS called us two days prior to this church service to take in children temporarily on an emergency basis. Well, me being the multi- tasker that I am was praying for a way to be made for us to go to
the church service and make sure that the children that were placed in our care had a backup provider. Not too long after my husband and I got in from church the children's mom called.
You should have seen me running around praying and asking God for a babysitter after we found out at the last minute that our son could not do it. I was sending up the timber and one of the children walked in and said that his mom wanted to talk to me. The immediate response in my spirit was, "Lord don't you see me praying 'cause I have to get out of here." Well Brothas and
Sistas, very gently the Lord began to prompt me to take the call and just listen. After all it should only take about 15 minutes, I thought to myself. I had spoken briefly to mom previously. Often we will allow the foster care children that the Lord sends our way to contact their relatives if it is permitted to calm their fears.
When I took the call I could hear a stressed out mom on the other end of the phone in tears because she had not been given the opportunity or phone mnumbers to contact her other children. She began to tell me about all the work that they had to get done to their home in order for her children to return to her. Brothas and Sistas, immediately the Lord prompted me that I
needed to take the time to pray for her and make sure that she was saved. As I prayed with her and talked to her about the Lord she responded in tears and told me that she had prayed when they took her children that they would be with a nice family that attended church.
Even though that was the longest 15 minutes on the phone which eventually turned into 25-30 minutes I knew that I was right where the Lord wanted me to be. Because as hard as I tried, I could not get anyone else that was a backup provider for us to watch those children while I went to church with my husband. No one could come through for us and mom just kept talking
and talking. She really needed someone that she felt comfortable with to talk to her. And Girlz, guess what? It became so painfully clear that she and her children were my ministry for the duration that God had them in our home
and I needed to take the time to be there.
Sometimes church service and ministry can be wherever He has us to be at any given time. Quite often we look for a platform within the four walls to minister and all God is looking for is a willing and available vessel to be His arms, legs, hands and feet to minister to those outside of the four walls of our local churches. Joel 3:18 says, "A fountain will flow out of the Lord’s house and will water the valley of acacias." Brothas and Sistas, since Jesus represents the river of life, He is the living water and He desires for us to be His representatives here on earth to quench the thirst of all of those that we come in contact with that are spiritually dry from not having an intimate relationship with our Savior. Notice this scripture says, "flow OUT of the Lord's house". That just simply means that we must come from behind the four walls to do ministry.
Brothas and Sistas, here is my challenge question for you today. Will you stop complaining about how you are not being used in your local church and begin to ask God for opportunities to (water) minister to those around you
that are in dry places as He prompts you to by His Spirit? Behind the scenes Christianity can be just as rewarding.
Smooches,
Me
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank you for the gifts and talents that you blessed us with. You are such an amazing God. We pray that we would begin to use our gifts to bless others that do not attend our local churches. Lord, the truth is sometimes you want us to minister to those that are right in our backyard. Help us to take the time to minister to those around us. Help us to be your hand, legs, eyes, and ears to those that need help. We pray all these things in your name, Jesus.
His Great Love!
"And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in God, and God in him. We love him because he first loved us." I John 4:16, 19
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Brothas and Sistas we should be utterly astonished and amazed at how the Father has such great love for us . He literally loves us to pieces. When most people would walk away in dismay or drop us like a hot potato once they have gotten to know the "real us" He sticks with us. Even when we were out in the world doing everything that we were big and bad enough to do He loved us. "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
Yet is defined as still or nevertheless. He loved us while we were still making it our business to hit the nightclubs on Friday night. He loved us while we were still getting high with our girls, He loved us while we were still cussing like sailors, and He loved us while we were still sleeping around. Nevertheless He loved us regardless of whatever state He found us in. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved us", one time sinners, prostitutes, pimps, and even those of us that were one time prostitute and pimp wanna be's.
Hmmm, what I mean is most of us were doing the crime without actually doing the time (that would be defined as grace). Yet in all of that, HE SO LOVED US! So is defined as to a great extent or to such a degree. Wow, that puts a whole new twist on things. God, the Father, simply loves us beyond compare. His great love for us goes beyond all human reasoning. He loves us to such an insurmountable degree
or extent that our little finite minds wouldn't be able to comprehend it apart from His word. "That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth or width (how exhaustingly wide), and length (how extraordinarily long), and depth, (how extremely deep) and height (how awesomely high); And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19
And because of His great love for us just as any committed lover would He pursued us into a committed relationship and we are now one with Him throughout all eternity. "I will betroth you to Me forever: yes, I will betroth you to me in righteousness and justice, In loving kindness and mercy." Hosea 2:19
He also loves it when we return the favor and love up on Him as well. He just loves it when we have the spiritual hots for Him!!!! "I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me." Proverbs 8:17 How great is the Father's love toward us? It is insurmountable (incapable of being defeated, overcome, or subdued). In other words His love is bulletproof (nothing can stop it or penetrate it), impregnable (difficult to challenge or refute, unconquerable), indomitable (incapable of being dominated or vanquished), and insuperable (unstoppable and unbeatable)! Nothing can beat, defeat, or compete with His love! Praise Him!
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
Thank you for your amazing love. May we love you all the more because of
the great love that you lavish upon us. In Jesus name we pray. Ame
Am I My Brothers Keeper
Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men." I Thessalonians 5:14
Two are better than one, because they
have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down, one can
help the other up. But pity anyone who
falls and has no one to help them up.
Also, if two lie down together, they
will keep warm. But how can one keep
warm alone? Though one may be
overpowered, two can defend
themselves. A cord of three strands is
not quickly broken." Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
During wartime efforts whenever a soldier was badly wounded it was customary for fellow comrades (soldiers) to pick him up and carry him
to a place of safety so that he could obtain healing and restoration. If a wounded soldier was left alone to die it was called abandonment. In the worst case scenario, it could be viewed as betrayal. Soldiers were taught the importance of sticking together. When one soldier
was down another soldier was there to pick him up.
A good soldier realized that it was impossible to win a war by himself because there is strength in unity. The only way the enemy could be defeated was to strategize which included winning the war by combining forces. Brothas and Sistas, it is a combined effort that leads to victory. Our commander in chief, God, has a similar strategy for us as Christians to wage war against our enemy, Satan. Many of our Brothas and Sistas, have been badly wounded during fierce battles of life. Some are MIA (missing in action), others are A.W.O.L. (absent without leave) and many have abandoned or deserted the war effort. They have retreated from the battlefield.
Brothas and Sistas, it is our duty to come alongside of them, get them back on the battlefield of life and help them to continue to fight the Good fight of FAITH. In this complicated world filled with trials we must realize that we are better off when we stand together in destroying the enemy. In fact, the more difficult life is the more powerful the weapon of unity becomes.
Though life's struggle's assail, Our love for one another against the enemy will prevail,
No battle is too intense,
No war fought is without recompense,
Every victory is won,
No course is undone,
When we ban together
in Christian brotherhood as one.
Prayer Time
Thank you for giving us the strategy of unity to defeat the enemy. Give us your compassion so that we may lift up our fellow Brothas and Sistas that have been wounded on the battlefield of life. Help us to bring them to safety, help mend their wounds, and then encourage them to get back on the battlefield of life. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Love
1st Corinthians 13:3 "I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. If I speak God’s Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don’t love, I’m nothing. 3- what I do, I’m bankrupt without love........ If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, ad what I do , I am bankrupt without love...."
Good morning Brothers and Sisters,
I hope and pray that God has been keeping your cup full and overflowing, and in the times it seemed to be tipping over that you stood tall in your faith and asked the Creator of all to refill your cup with the fragrant, sweet, refreshing tea that only He can pour.
Brothas and Sistas, I have to be honest with you. My cup has not only been emptied in this last week but has been poured out and at times it felt as though it would never be replenished. I have had to go back to the Father on so many occasions to ask Him to refill my cup especially with love, grace, and patience. Can anyone say Amen to that?
It's not that I don't know He is right there in the midst of my crisis of the heart, or relationships, it's that I sometimes forget to posture my mind on the things that are true of Him by focusing or allowing the circumstances and lies of the Evil One to take captive my thoughts; especially when I feel deeply offended or don't feel like I am being treated with honor or respect as a wife, a person, a friend, an advocate, an employee .......
Brothers and Sisters, you fill in your own (blank) _________________ here. For me this is when I can't smell that fragrant sweet nectar tea that only He can brew and use it to refresh and restore me with what is right, true, and full of His wisdom, mercy, and grace. You know things that I don't always want to share when I am sitting there feeling sorry for myself or feeling wronged in any way. This is when my God, our God, our Savior, and Redeemer puts on a big cup of Tea to refresh my soul, soften my heart, and help me flick Satan right off my shoulder. Then and only then will I truly allow God's truth's to be poured back into me.
Today during our Tea Time we are going to look at a verse that has just been circling around me like a fly buzzes around a picnic table.
Amazingly, it is the next verse where we left off at last week. God is so good and so amazing if we keep our tea cups full of His truth and love we can watch Him create a beautiful tapestry that ties all the loose ends of our lives together one piece and one sip at a time. So let look at what trusting God always means:
Trusts God Always - 1Corithians 1:3-7- "If I give up everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to burned as a martyr but If don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.'
Now let's break this down a little as this is a big cup of Tea to drink. Let's not allow our minds to wonder off because it would be easier to do than we may think.
TRUST GOD ALWAYS - This may seem so very simple and almost too simple, so why focus on this. We've got this down, Sistas. No problem, right? Well at least for me I know that this has been tough when life has been running me down, throwing hardship after hardship and cruel realities of living in a fallen world. So let's start with some of the easier ones that maybe we can all shake our heads and take a sip of our tea while it's still hot and aromatic just the way we love it, and well, we love life to be...
Brothas and Sistas, as we look at Paul's examples here they could be a challenge for any one of us, me included: Wow I don't know about you but this is really a lot to drink in. Do I believe that God calls each of us to give of all our earthly belongings to the poor? No. But I do believe His intent here is to share a cup of His tea with the poor, the less fortunate, the sick and hurting as much as you can and as often as His sweet voice directs your heart that way. We are all here to serve one another. Christ demonstrated that over and over again in His ministry and life.
Paul continues with talking about him being a martyr for his belief in Christ and that without love in His life that pointed others towards the only true love , Christ; Paul is telling us that his life would have meant nothing. He had simply been a man put to death, without sharing the love of Christ with everyone because he would have not only died a physical death but a spiritual death too. Paul would have experienced eternal separation from Christ and God the Creator.
Paul next talks about being bankrupt without love. - Wow, what perfect words for us over 2,000 years later. If we look at our news channels, listen to the radio or sit and sip a cup of tea with another we will likely hear of lives being bankrupt in many worldly ways. Yet this is what Paul so strongly warns us against. He warns us against becoming bankrupt in our souls, living life without the love of Christ. Now Brothers and Sisters, I must say I have been here where my cup was not only empty, it was decaying right along with my heart because I didn't realize
that I needed to let God love me first or love myself as God loves me.
I didn't know that I needed to protect that fragrant cup of tea that He so generously poured out for each of us on the cross. I didn't and maybe some of you don't know either that you can always go back to the cross when you feel depleted of love. As the Father's love for us is so infinite because of the sacrifice of Christ where He chose to be martyr upon the cross to provide each of us with salvation, forgiveness, grace, love and redemption. Amen.
Brothers and Sisters, have you ever felt as though your cup was so empty and decaying right along with your heart because you didn't realize that you needed to let God love you first or love yourself as God loves you? I hope to see you again next week.
Love,
Tabby
Is Your Tongue Used For Healing or Hurting?
"With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men who have been made in God's likeness." James 3:9
"Your words and the manner in which you speak are critical to harmonious relationships. As you learn to speak the truth in love, you must also determine when to speak, how to speak in an edifying manner, and to whom you should speak. The power of your words is enormous, and they also show the condition of your heart. Even your idle words will be accounted for in the day of judgment." John C. Broger
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
I've been reading the book of James for about a month now. Sometimes it's good to be reminded of things you may already know, but sometimes forget. This is also how we get the word of God in our hearts; by continuing to read and study it. My question today is.... Are we using our tongue for healing and helping or is it being used to hurt and kill others with deadly words? James 3:9 says, "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men who have been made in God's likeness." James went on to say that, "out of our mouth come praise and cursing".
These things should not be. I don't know about you, Brothas and Sistas, but I've been there many times but I can truly thank God for changing me over the years. I have gotten better. I'm more quick to listen now than I used to be. That's what looking into Gods perfect law will do. When you continue to read it, it will change your way of thinking and talking. I'm so glad about that. I no longer walk away from the word and forget who I am and whose I am. Jesus is continuing to bring about change in my life.
Food for thought: How about you? Is your tongue being used to bring glory to God or to hurt others? "God has given us two ears, but one tongue, to show that we should be swift to hear, but slow to speak. God has set a double fence before the tongue, the teeth and the lips, to teach us to be wary that we offend not with our tongue." Thomas Watson
Much Love,
Renee
Know God's Timing for Relationships
"There is a time and a season for everything under the sun." Ecclesiastes 3:1
Good morning my dear Brothas and Sistas,
I pray that you are doing well this Lord's day. I want us to spend a little time talking about God's timing for relationships. So often we do not recognize the seasons in our lives regarding relationships. We try to hold on to a winter relationship when God has already positioned us for the newness of spring. When we listen to the Holy Spirit we can obtain the Lord's wisdom to know the seasons for the people that He places in our lives and be willing to let go when He tells us to. God places people in our lives so that we can learn, experience, and grow from each other for a given time. Scripture says, "There is a time and a season for everything under the sun." Ecclesiastes 3:1
Brothas and Sistas, you know many times we become stagnant in our walk with God because we are not willing to let go of some people that were only meant to be in our lives temporarily; they were only meant to be in our lives for a season. Believe it or not God has already preordained a specific season for people to remain or move on in our lives. Sometimes we hang around the same old tired people, have the same old tired relationships, and cling to the same old tired friends because we have become so used to them. We rely on the same old people again and again to do the same old thing. Often times we make excuses for not moving on because our unmet expectations in relationships make us leery of embarking on something new.
Some of us have even developed unhealthy soulties in these relationships because we keep holding on when God has clearly shown us that the relationship does not promote wholeness or healing. As a result we are tempted to cling to what is comfortable no matter how fatal it is to our relationship with Him because of fear. You would think that we would have learned by now that any relationship that promotes healing and wholeness is of God and anything that does not is not of Him so we need to move on. He so desperately wants to do a new thing in our lives by introducing us to new people, have us develop new relationships, and have us make new friends. We are so focused on the old that we will not allow Him to propel us forward into the new.
What does it all mean? Why has God allowed some acquaintances to be there only for a short time and others to be there for a lifetime? And why are we so unwilling to let go when He tells us to at times? The Lord tells us that we need to be willing to let go of the old and wholeheartedly embrace the new. Isaiah 42:9 says, "Behold the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them." New is defined as not existing before, being made, not seen or known before. The Lord says that He wants to divinely and positioning place us in relationships that were predestined by Him but have never physically existed before. He says that these relationships are actually being made in the spirit of His mind (yet to be seen in the physical) not known by man but divinely inspired by Him and have yet to be transformed into the fabric of our everyday lives. Wow, that is so amazing to me that the Lord God, Himself, wants to breath newness into my life so that I can move toward His perfect and divine will and I just have to be willing to let go of the old, walk by faith, trust Him, and embrace the new.
It is not that He wants to take something away from us to hurt us but He is taking it away for us to see more of Him in someone else, to experience more of His will, to obtain more of the destiny (favor) that was birthed in us at the point of spiritual conception, and to bring healing and wholeness through others divinely sent by Him. We will miss out on or become spiritually blind to divine connections when we stay connected to those relationships that the Lord has already spiritually eulogized. The Message Bible says, "Forget about what has happened; Don't keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I'm about to do something brand new. It's bursting out! Don't you see it?" Isaiah 43:18, 19
"Lord, please help us to see your beauty in letting go and moving on. Help us to know that you are omniscient and you make no mistakes in all that you do. Help us to see that you work all things including letting go of old relationships to make room for new ones. And help us to discern our seasons for relationships and when you remove someone it is for our good and your ultimate glory. Amen. "Brothas and Sistas, know God's timing for relationships.
Seek to Save the Lost
"Matthew 9:38, "Jesus told his disciples, pray ye therefore the lord of the harvest, that will send forth labourers into his harvest."
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
What is God looking for? He is looking for workers. Are we willing to be workers in the gospel? Brothas and Sistas, when we pray for God to send laborers out in the field sometimes He is calling US to go out and rescue those that are lost and perishing.
One of the most important jobs as Christians is to go out and seek and save those that are lost. That is part of laboring. How many of us are working in the fields; out there sowing into the lives of others instead of just talking about it? Too many times I hear Christians talking about what they are going to do but never actually do it.
I remember the story of the servant Isaiah. In Isaiah 6:8, Isaiah cried out "Here I am...Send me." When God asks who He can send we have to have the same spirit as Isaiah, willing to be obedient to go out in the field to serve. We were saved to serve. So how many of us will answer the call when God is ready for us to go out in the fields to work. The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few.
Brothas and Sistas, let's make up our minds to to be that worker that will go out and labor for the gospel while we have time to do it.
Prayer of Faith\
Lord, many carry your name but often will not commit to ministering to others who are in the world. But we have been called to be a light in the world because we bear your great name. Please do a work in our hearts so that we will be convicted to carry out the Great Commission. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
The Closer I Get To You
Song of Solomon 4:1–15 (ESV): 4 Behold, you are beautiful, my love,
behold, you are beautiful! Your eyes are doves behind your veil.
Your hair is like a flock of goats leaping down the slopes of Gilead.
Your teeth are like a flock of shorn ewes that have come up from the washing, all of which bear twins, and not one among them has lost its young. Your lips are like a scarlet thread, and your mouth is lovely. Your cheeks are like halves of a pomegranate behind your veil. Your neck is like the tower of David, built in rows of stone; on it hang a thousand shields, all of them shields of warriors. Your two breasts are like two fawns, twins of a gazelle,
that graze among the lilies. Until the day breathes and the shadows flee,
I will go away to the mountain of myrrh and the hill of frankincense.
You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you. Come with me from Lebanon, my bride; come with me from Lebanon. Depart from the peak of Amana, from the peak of Senir and Hermon, from the dens of lions,
from the mountains of leopards. You have captivated(stolen) my heart, my sister, my bride; you have captivated (stolen) my heart with one glance of your eyes,
with one jewel of your necklace. How beautiful is your love, my sister, my bride! How much better is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your oils than any spice! Your lips drip nectar, my bride; honey and milk are under your tongue; the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon. A garden locked is my sister, my bride, a spring locked, a fountain sealed.
Your shoots are an orchard of pomegranates with all choicest fruits,
henna with nard, nard and saffron, calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense, myrrh and aloes, with all choice spices— a garden fountain, a well of living water, and flowing streams from Lebanon.' Solomon 4:1-15
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
You remember how you first met? You couldn't stay apart from one another and no one could keep you apart from one another. You both constantly desired to be with one another every time you thought, ate, slept, woke etc., Do you remember the closer you got the more you felt the overwhelming love for him/her?
Now that you are married, the closer you are as the years go by, you drift further and further apart. When you look at Solomon 4:1-5, Solomon shines as he speaks romantic love talk to his wife in reference to how beautiful she is and all that he imagines in his desire for her. Solomon can't wait to get closer to her just as much as she can't wait to get closer to him. Solomon is saying, "The Closer I get to you the more you make me feel." Notices he says, "You have stolen my heart." twice.
This is how some of us as married couples used to be. We had so much desire, so much anticipation, and we were so much in love with each other. Brothas and Sistas, what went so wrong that we drifted apart? The passion we once had for our spouses can be restored if we are only willing to do what it takes to bring it back. Try getting closer to them by letting them know how much you truly love and adore them.
Till next time
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Thank you for quality time with our spouses. Thank you for allowing us to get closer to one another in good times and in bad times. May we learn to pull together instead of drift apart. Help us to show our love daily to one another just as you show your love to us daily. In Jesus name we pray.
Tea Time With Tabby - A Brew of Friendship
1 Samuel 20:42 New International Version (NIV)
Jonathan said to David, “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord, saying, ‘The Lord is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.’” Then David left, and Jonathan went back to the town.
Job 29:4 New International Version (NIV)
Oh, for the days when I was in my prime,
when God’s intimate friendship blessed my house,
1 John 3:2 New International Version (NIV)
Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.
2 Corinthians 7:1 New International Version (NIV)
Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
1 John 4:7 New International Version (NIV) God’s Love and Ours
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.
2 Corinthians 12:19 New International Version (NIV)
Have you been thinking all along that we have been defending ourselves to you? We have been speaking in the sight of God as those in Christ; and everything we do, dear friends, is for your strengthening.
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters I pray that your night was at peace and your sleep was restful. Today’s Brew is all about Friendship there are many kinds of friendships that we have in this world. Yet our Lord cautions us to not be friends of this world. He does desire for us to have friends in this world. Let us pray. Lord I pray that the words on this page are your words leave me out and pour only your truth and love, and wisdom. In advance we give you thanks and praise.
How many of us know the song I have a Friend in Jesus? I personally love that song, I like the tune, and melody and idea of the song. I am not sure that I or even many of us truly grasp the Truth that is being sung in the words “I have a friend in Jesus, oh Yes I do”. Do you ever think of your relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ or God the Father, or our Guiding Spirit of God in these terms and meanings?
I know that intellectually from my years as a Christian, as this month is my 24 year identifying myself as a Christian not as the religious term for the faith I was raised in catholic. Now that is not to say that those who are Practicing Catholics are not Christians for they are. For me and my personal faith walk there is a distinction. It was right around this time of the year 24 years ago that I was working late at the office with a friend and our boys were playing together when her son invited my son to church with them. We accepted, and I have never looked back, for me this is where I found Jesus the Friend, God the Friend, and the guiding Spirit of God the Friend.
I have been blessed with so many friendships with women and men alike in my time here. Some have remained some have left. Some I still have continued long distance friendships with and others I have lost touch with. Somehow though even those that I haven’t seen in years when I see again I feel that time has been still, and friendship is still very much alive and valued and vital.
The Lord our God offers and desires that we would accept this gift of friendship in this same way with Him. Have you ever considered that? We all get busy in our lives and things are going well, we don’t necessarily take the time to consider God’s friendship with us as we may our brothers and sisters in Christ or co-workers or others. Yet much like our earthly friendships God surely has deposited a need within us for these friendships and He takes pleasure in providing them for us and giving us opportunities to nurture them. Our friendship with Him needs the same nurturing to remain vital and relevant in our lives. We must take the time to nurture and tend to our friendship in God as well.
How are we to do this you may you ask? How do we nurture and encourage our friendship in God, as he is not here to sit upon my couch and share some laughs over a game, or watch a movie, have a meal with and on…? Yet He is here, He is right there with us all the time, we simply don’t take the time consider this part of our daily faith investment.
This past weekend some longtime friends at church were asking about my son and how things were going? As I shared, my one friend said that she was impressed with by faith and trust in God throughout the entire time of Zac’s accident and recovery. My friend said to me that I spoke of God like a Friend when I relayed how He was my source of strength and hope, and resilience. (Please know I don’t say this arrogantly, God deserves the glory for this I was truly humbled by her comment) I honestly hadn’t even considered that not once. Yet now I have yet another new perspective a new insight to how He brought me through that season. I was gifted in that moment by my friend Jesus in being able to see how He was being revealed through me without my knowledge or consideration. Just one more way to count His Blessing as my Friend. Just one more way His Mercy and Love brought me through that season.
Sadly, it remined me too that I haven’t been nurturing that part of our relationship recently. During those long dark days, I remember feeling His presence sitting right next to me. At times it was so real that I would have to reach out to try to touch Him, or to see if I was sitting somewhere having a conversation aloud with the Lord when I was there at the hospital alone.
Brothers and Sisters, its easy to feel alone and isolated in this world of technology rather than in person Friendolgy (my word). Yet we must never forget that we have a real friend in Jesus, and hope for blessed earthly friendships that can be found by sharing our lives with others who seek to know Him and love Him. We can learn how to nurture and grow deeper in both our friendship with the Lord and with those He blesses our lives with by nurturing both.
I am so excited to be going to a Girlfriends in God Woman’s Conference in just over 2 weeks with 2 very dear friends. Strangely enough I met these 2 cherished friends both through work, both in the secular world. So, I encourage you to make those connections you never know where they may lead. One of those friends I invited to church one Sunday and she is now and even greater example of Christ that I look up to her. She too had been raised Catholic and was a practicing Catholic, but God was calling her to different walk in her faith she accepted. The other of these friends is the reason I sit behind this monitor and keyboard. This friend prayed with me every time I left her home when I was in my infancy of this walk of faith. Each time as I was leaving her home after I was done visiting with her children to see if there was anything that in my job as their advocate I could do to support her and children with special needs. This friend prayed for over a year that I would follow God’s leading to use the gifts and talents He created in me to share my life and testimony with all of you. Oh, how very Blessed I am to have a Friend like God, who has Blessed me with friends that know Christ and emulate His heart for friendship. These Sister’s in Christ have seen me through the good, the bad, the ugly and have always remained faithful friends; just as Christ, God the Father, and the Holy Spirit have and always and will always through the years and into and through eternity.
Brothers and Sisters, I pray that you find a Friend in Jesus, God the Father and Guiding Holy Spirit today. May we be praying for one another and remembering that our very best friend is 3 in 1 and He is always with us, no matter the situation, circumstance, or feeling. He is worthy of our time of our investment in nurturing and growing deep in friendship, love, obedience, and trust in Him.
It’s my prayer that if you didn’t know this character of God, that after having this time sipping in this brew today that you would ask Him to reveal this to your spirit and make your heart open for this amazing gift that only the 1 true God offers without cost or cause.
In his precious loving name, and dear sweet friend we close, with thanksgiving, love and friendship. Till next week.
Love and friendship,
Tabby
The Benefits of Wisdom
"Wisdom will save you from wicked people, from those whose words are twisted. These men turn from right paths. They take pleasure in doing wrong, and they enjoy the twisted ways of evil. Their actions are crooked, and their ways are wrong." (Prov.2:12-15)
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
We gain wisdom through a constant process of growing. First, we must trust and honor God. Second, we must realize that the bible reveals God's wisdom to us. Third, we must make a life long series of choices that please God and avoid moral pitfalls. Fourth, when we make sinful choices or mistakes, we must learn from our errors and recover.
We, as Christian believers, don't develop all aspects of wisdom at once. For example, some people have more insight than discretion; others have more knowledge than common sense. But we, as Christian believers, can pray for all aspects of wisdom and take the steps to develop them."He guards the paths of the just and protects those who fear him. Then you will understand what is right, just and fair, and you will find the right way to go." (Prov.2:8-9)
Much Love,
Renee
Whispers of Love - Changing Your Mentality
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."
Romans 8:37
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There are times when we can become weary from all that Satan sends our way to try to defeat us. During these times we are tempted to walk around with a defeated mentality but the bible tells us in Rom. 8:37 that,"We are more than conquerors. "I like that phrase "more than", it indicates a quantifier meaning greater in size, amount, extent, or degree.
Brothas and Sistas, there is no situation that we don't stand to come out on top. There is positive in even the seemingly most negative situation because we all acquire growth from it. Everything within God's classroom is a teachable moment for us all.
We grow most and experience His power most in the hard places. The songwriter says,"If I never had a problem I would have never known that my God could solve them." That is so profoundly true.
Brothas snd Sistas, you may just need to change your mentality. "I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal (to make like new : restore to freshness, vigor, or perfection) of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
It's all based on your perspective. Never look at your past failures or current situation as a tragedy because God is in it and it is all good. We have the victory in all things through Him. Praise His wonderful name.
Response:
"The Lord God is my strength, my personal bravery, and my invincible army, He makes my feet like hinds feet and will make me to walk [ not to stand still in terror, but to walk ] and make [spiritual] progress upon my high places [of trouble, suffering, or responsibility! ]" Habakkuk 3:19 (amp.)
Lord I thank you...I feel so much better when I come to you with all my cares, my issues; just all my stuff. You say in your word, in all ways submit to you and you will make my paths straight. (Proverbs 3:6) It's like a heavy weight lifted off my chest.
Lord, I love you and I thank you for being the God of my strength, my personal bravery, and my invincible army. There is none like you Lord!! None like you, I thank you and praise your holy name." I love the Lord, for he heard my voice, he heard my cry for mercy because he turned his ear to me. I will call on him as long as I live." Ps 116:1-2
Now Lord, please touch our Brothas and Sistas hearts so that they may study your great word and be renewed by it. Help them to change their mentality as they soak in the presence of your life changing, victorious word. Amen
Love,
Denise
No Pain, No Gain
"For this momentary, light affliction (this light distress of this passing hour) is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look at the things that are not seen for the things that are seen temporal (brief & fleeting) but the things that aren't seen are eternal (forever)" II Cor. 4:17-18
"For I reckon the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
He's brought us though some pretty tough stuff. The word says, "For this momentary, light affliction (this light distress of this passing hour) is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look at the things that are not seen for the things that are seen temporal (brief and fleeting) but the things that aren't seen are eternal (forever)" II Cor. 4:17-18
In other words, our pain is only temporary and we should never give permanent residency to it. Brothas and Sistas, never claim it as your own because whatever we give right to; we give life to. We were made to be powerful but never to be pitiful!
I heard somebody say, "On the other side of pain is power!" So the next time pain wants make you it's permanent dwelling place, hang a "No Vacancy" sign out because pain has no permanent place in your life! "For I reckon the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory which shall be revealed in us." (Romans 8:18) Amen.
Response: Moments of Reflection
Brothers and Sisters, that's such a great way to look at it. I deal with physical pain everyday from arthritis to fibromyalgia. Now I know there are many skeptics when it comes to that but it's neither here nor there. What God is teaching me is that this side of heaven there is pain and suffering. I can hear my great Lord and Savior saying, "It may seem, Kim that you have more than your share in vast ways." But He reminds me that all things come through Him and all things have a purpose to glorify Him. So He says "I will you use this pain to help others that suffer worse than you and you will you use this pain to rely more fully on Me. " I will you use this pain to show the world that if you have Jesus you can go through anything because you never walk alone because He is always at your side.
The alternative would be to lie down and give into the pain allowing my flesh to be my ruler and not the Lord, God who is creator of my salvation, my redemption, and my amazing God. I will not choose to lie down and allow Satan's poison to settle in my heart. I choose daily, moment by moment at times, to continue to invite Him in and trust that this pain is nothing more than the Potter making me whole and blemish free so that when I stand before God and He can look upon me as I will be wholly healed, forgiven, and claimed by Jesus.
Prayer of Surrender
So Lord, I thank you for the struggles and the pain. Use me however it suits you to accomplish all great things through you, Lord. Thank you, Lord, for trusting me enough with my pain, trials and tribulations. My strength, hope, praise, peace, and rest is in your holy hands. Praise be to God for all things work together for your good. I deposit these heavy things at the foot of the cross and I know I never carry them alone. Amen.
Love,
Kim Dunkin
Your Priority in Seeking Him Reaps Rewards
Watch "Sinach - More of you" on YouTube
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Some of us are trying to obtain things that will only wither away once we get them because we have put those things in front of Him. But when we put Christ first nothing is off the table or off limits with Him. He relishes in our obedience to Him. Why? Because it proves that we trust Him more than any fear, storm or enemy that threatens us.
Fear can immobilize you to a place of sedimentary status while faith instead catapults you to a boundless life of blessings and greatness. Fear says, "I got to do this to get that." While Faith says, "God's got this so I don't have to do this to get that." Matthew 6:33 consistently reminds us that our job is to trust Him enough to make Him a priority. When we do this material needs will follow without us having to worry or be anxious.
James 1:8 says, "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. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord." You see we can't expect to receive all that God has for us when we are all tied up in worry, anxiety and regret. Our faith is what pushes His promises off the pages of the bible to manifest an overflow of favor, peace and substance in the lives of those who trust Him.
Brothas and Sistas, stop worry and fretting over those things that are totally out of your control. Stop trying to obtain things in your own strength. Your priority in seeking Him reaps rewards.
Prayer of Faith
Lord, help us in our unbelief. You have made a way when there seemed to be absolutely no way. Help us to trust you when we don't see how a way will be made in times of trouble. We thank you for being Jehovah Jireh in our lives. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Give Yourself to God
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." Rom 12:1
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
When I speak of giving ourselves to God I am talking about body, soul,mind and spirit. Our bodies are the temple of God; the very dwelling place - the place where God has made His home forever. That is truly something to celebrate. What a privilege we are given as Gods children. Every step we make God is there. Every word we speak God is there. So why not live for Him.
Brothas and Sistas, we should be worshiping God with our entire bodies because our bodies no longer belong to us; they belong to God. "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own."1 Cor 6:19
The bible says to present ourselves as a living sacrifice. According to Gods' law in the Old Testament a priest would kill an animal, cut it in pieces and place it on the altar as a remission for sin. This sacrifice was important but even in the Old Testament God made it clear that obedience from the heart was more important. God wants us to offer ourselves to Him daily. We should desire to follow Him and to place all of our energy and resources at His disposal.
Elder V
PS. Brothas and Sistas, lets make it a practice of giving ourselves to God as a living sacrifice on a daily basis. It’s our reasonable service.
Prayer of Faith
God please help us to give ourselves to you daily without hesitation understanding that when we learn to do this we will be able to focus on your will for our lives. In Jesus name. Amen.
Victory Already Won Praise
"And now shall mine head be lifted up above my enemies round about me:therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord." Psalm 27:6
Good morning to my triumphant Brothas and Sistas,
I am reminded of the times when my family and I have either attended or watched various sporting events and how the home team will most often resort to tactics that will get the opposing team to lose focus and ultimately lose the game. I am reminded of how right in the middle of a game still in the process of being played of how the home team will begin to sing the victory chant.
OK Brothas and Sistas, what's up with that? Didn't they read the scoreboard? Don't they know that the game is still in session, the whistle has not been blown, and the bleachers are still full? Well, somebody must have told them that the best way to be victorious is to know in advance that the game has already been won and to walk in victory before the game is over. In other words, the home team can sing the victory chant because they have the home field advantage.
For you see they know the field because they have practiced so many times on that field that they know it like the back of their hands. Their coach have worked with them on team plays so often that they know the play book so much until it now has become a part of them. And this is how we should always be as Saints of God. We should know that since our coach daddy, God the Father, owns the earth, the fullness thereof, and all that dwells within it and since WE are His kids then we in turn have the home field advantage. When we are at practice (in His presence) and He begins to share the plays from the play book (the word of God) with us that we now have become prepared for the battle and ultimately are prepared for the victory. This in turn should make us want to sing the victory chant (praises unto our God) while we are in the heat of the battle.
David knew this all to well when he was in the midst of the battle and he said, "And now shall mine head be lifted up above my enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord." Psalm 27:6 Woo, David had enough sense to know that he had it like that and because of the excellent coachings of his Daddy he had already won the battle. That is why He said right there in the midst of the mess that he was in, "And now shall my head be lifted up above my enemies." David is hilarious because he reminds me of one of those spoiled little annoying kids that taunt you with the "Na na, nanna, na, na. I am going to go tell my daddy and you gonna get it. You just wait and see." You see, just like that spoiled little kid, David was already singing his victory chant when he continued with "therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord."
I'm just sayin, since David knew who his coach, Daddy, was he trusted in His coaching skills, studied the play book, got his victory chant on, and was prepared for battle of which the victory had already been won. Psalm 24:8 says, "Who is the King of glory? the Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle." He is just powerful like that!!!! You know back in the day we would whoop somebody's butt if they messed with one of our kids. It was ON!!! Well, He is willing and able to fight each one of his kids battles and whoop somebody's butt on our behalf just like a loving daddy would. We don't have to lift a finger in defense because he is our DEFENSE in the game of life!!!!! He is Jehovah Nissi, the Lord Our Banner!!!
Brothas and Sistas, Psalm 150 reminds us that we need to praise Him wherever, whenever, however we get the chance to, with whatever we have even if it is in the heat of the battle. Psalm 147:1 says, "Praise ye the Lord: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely (fitting, proper)." In other words praise is the fitting and proper thing for us to do as Christians no matter what comes our way. Psalm 33:1 reminds us of that same thing but vs.9 stands out in particular because it says," For he spoke and it was done (having been carried out or accomplished; finished: a done deed) he commanded and it stood fast."
That right there is powerful. I'm just sayin' that He is just that awesome that His mere words make us triumphant and it is done, finished and accomplished, the victory is already won y'all because He said so. We were never meant to lose! Brothas and Sistas, we can have victory already won praise! Don't wait til the battle is over when you can shout now! Praise Him!!!! Have a blessed, victorious day,
Michelle
Prayer of Faith
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the victories already won in our lives. May we never walk in defeat knowing that you have declared us victorious in every situation. We walk in full awareness that Satan is a defeated foe. We win! Praise Your name. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Nothing Compares to The Glory of Christ
Nothing Compares to the Glory in Christ
Watch "Tasha Cobbs - For Your Glory" on YouTube
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
What we are suffering NOW is NOTHING compared to the Glory God will reveal to us and in us later. Don't be surprised at the fiery trials that are taking place, they are to test the quality of our Faith. And don't view them as something strange or unusual happening, BUT rejoice to the extent that we are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that when His Glory filled with radiance and splendor is revealed, we also will Rejoice with Great Joy. [Romans 8:18; 1 Peter 4:12, 13]
Since GOD didn't spare angels that SINNED, but threw them into hell, sending them to pits of gloom to be kept for the Coming Judgment. And GOD didn't spare the ancient world, when He brought the Judgment of the Flood upon the world of the ungodly, BUT protected Noah, the preacher of righteousness w/his family, totaling (8). And since GOD condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, destroying them by fire from heaven, reducing them to ashes and making them an example to all who live ungodly lives thereafter. And GOD rescued Lot, who was oppressed and tormented by the immoral, filthy conduct of the wicked, ungodly men. For Lot, the righteous man's righteous soul, living among them was tormented day after day by what he saw and heard of their lawless deeds. Therefore, Since ALL This is TRUE; rest assure, GOD knows how to RESCUE the Godly from trials, and at the same time keep the unrighteous for punishment for "the DAY OF JUDGMENT, THAT IS COMING; especially those who indulge in the corrupt passions of sin and despise authority. [2 Peter 2:4-9]
Brothas and Sistas, STAY Alert, Watch and Pray and Watch out for your enemy, the devil. (Eph.6:10-20) Stand Firm in your Faith against him; Resist him, and know ALL Christians EVERYWHERE are suffering as you are in the world. God called us to share in Christ's, our Coming Savior's Eternal Glory, BUT after we have suffered a little while, GOD WILL Complete, Confirm, Strengthen and Establish us in all that we should be.
To God be GLORY, DOMINION and POWER Forever & EVER, AMEN!!!
[1 Peter 5:10, 11]
Claudia
Prayer of Faith
Lord, we praise you for everything you allow us to go through. We know there is a greater plan in our suffering. Help us to cling to the awesome fact that all things really do work together for good. (Rom. 8:28)
A Brew At All Cost
I Peter 4:8, "Above all love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins."
Good morning Brothers and Sisters,
I pray that the Peace and Love of Christ's Abounding Love is surrounding you today.
Today's brew is one that is hard to pour, its especially hard to pour for someone who you love but that is not being loving towards you. Yet Christ calls us to love one another as this is one of first commandment that Christ declared. This is certainly a brew that we can see throughout Christ's life here upon earth. This is clearly the Brew that God, the Father pours for each of us daily. This brew needs to be taken from our Tea Cupboards brushed off and surely brewed every day.
Let's examine how God has so loved us that His perfect plan for humans was thought out and determined before He so much as spoke light into the world. God created us with a heart, soul, and spirit that would always crave love from Him and from others relationally. He put within our spirit the desire to love like Him through parenting, serving, and sharing the good news of Christ. Yet we often find ourselves eager and willing to pour this Brew for a stranger at the coffee shop who needs you to pass the sugar or in the grocery store line when you give someone a little extra so that they can afford their purchases. We demonstrate this in some of the most simple ways holding a door, smiling or offering a neighbor assistance.
Now let's examine how often we don't reveal or demonstrate this love in our homes. Let me share an example of this in my own home. My spouse can be less than encouraging at times. When he is stressed he can be critical. I sit here today not sharing this Brew of Love at all costs with him. I admit that I know that the Lord expects this of me. I know that I would have peace in my spirit if I would only take this brew from its shelf and pour some for him. Yet I hold back. You may be asking why? I tell you the truth this is the hardest brew to make a pot of when you have been offended or feel less valued, or disrespected, or have lost faith in the words and heart of someone you love.
Satan loves it when he is able to manipulate circumstances to create this brew of anger, hurt, dismay and doubt about your faith and hope in the one(s) we love. Satan instead of encouraging us as Christ would to love one another abundantly as love covers many sins comes in and mixes up this brew discouragement. I confess to you today that this is a brew of bitterness. I have sipped upon over and over again these past few days. It is certainly the brew that I sent him off to work with and said goodnight to him with. I share this not to brag about my flaring flesh but to encourage you to examine what you have been pouring in your home and life. This is not a brew that I desire to ring. I know that this is a fleshy brew that I need to not only confess to Christ but that I must pour it out at His feet and ask Him for His strength to overcome as in my own power I will surely continue to pour this brew when my emotions determine my actions and not the truth of Christ!!
I so wish that this Brew of Love in any and all circumstances came naturally to me. How about you? Have you shared this brew of bitterness and discontent with those you love, those closest to you? It's my prayer that in this moment that our loving God who loves us with everything and loved us so much before He ever so much as spoke light into existence would cleanse my heart. I pray that you will too be examining your Tea Cupboard as I desire to have Him come in and do a complete overhaul.
Christ was a carpenter and He is the Carpenter of our Spirit. He is fully capable of coming in and tearing out the old Tea Cupboards of our life. He will build new ones that the shelves will only hold the Blessings, Compassion, Understanding, Faith, Hope and Love that He Brews. These Brews will each be uniquely created for each of us. For where we stand today and He will maintain the inventory to ensure that each time we reach for our Tea Cups and our Tea Leaves it will be as if we have reached His hand. He will be in every brew as we have allowed Him to transform our lives. We are a new creation in Christ. He is our Brew Master. He is our strength. He is our Love.
You see when we stop trying to be the Brew Master and allow the One and only True, Capable, Sovereign and All Gracious Lord of our Lives take charge. We will experience true life change. Now does this mean that my spouse will no longer be critical or unkind at times... NO NO NO NO!! It simply means that I will no longer be pouring the brew. It means that I will have Christ within my spirit and by allowing Him to live life through me I will have the distinguished gift of seeing my spouse through Christ's eyes and not my own. Remember Christ is a Gentleman and He will not push Himself upon us. God created us with freewill so that we can choose to accept His love, direction, and purpose for our lives. I will not need to seek my worth, value, and truth about who I am through or from anyone. It will be established in Christ and revealed to me through the brews I allow Him to pour into my life, soul, and spirit.
Therefore Brothers and Sisters, I ask Christ for forgiveness and accept His gift of forgiveness and freedom in choosing Him as my Brew Master. Through Him I become complete. Every need my spirit and soul desire can only be found through Him. It's my prayer today that you will sit with the Brew Master of your life. Determine for yourself if Christ is your Brew Master. Spend some time in His word and come to know the one and only Peace Giver. Come to a place of responding to His call for your life. As we must lose our lives to find them. Give Christ the keys to your Tea Cupboard allow Him to move in and make all the necessary renovations. I promise that once you do and fully allow Him to be Truth Giver in your life and allow these truths to replace the lies of Satan you will be able to Love at all Costs. Remember that Christ was the PERFECT example of Love at ALL COSTS. He did this on a Cross over 2000 years ago just for you!!
Hidden is Christ's Love at ALL Costs,
Tabby
God Is In Control
"GOD IS our Refuge and Strength, He IS our VERY PRESENT Help in the time of all our troubles." Psalm 46:1
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
In the Midst of ALL the chaos in the world, the tribulation in your Life... And destruction on every leaning side...KNOW THIS: GOD IS in CONTROL. He is Seated on the Throne and Christ is sitting at the right hand of God. Col 3:1 says, "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God."
Brothas and Sistas, GOD ALWAYS Has a Plan for your pain, a Will for your trials and a Purpose IN and THROUGH every detail of your life.
"GOD IS our Refuge and Strength, He IS our VERY PRESENT Help in the time of all our troubles." Psalm 46:1 Let God be magnified and everything and everyone brought low. He said, "Be still and know that I AM GOD. I WILL be exalted among the nations, I WILL be exalted in the earth. The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge." Psalm 46:10, 11
If we set our Minds on Christ it teaches us to Depend on Him. We gain wisdom when Seek the Lord's Face forevermore! Since we have received Christ Jesus as Savior and Lord of our lives let's walk in Him, rooted, grounded and established in our faith. [Colossians 2:6, 7],
let's redeem the time because the days are evil. [Ephesians 5:16, 17], and let us continue to allow the Light of Christ to Shine and Burn brightly in us, so that others may come to See, Hear, Know and Experience Him in and through us. He Promised to WORK ALL things together for good to them that LOVE Him, to them who are the called according to His Purpose. Therefore, WE MUST Pause, meditate and reflect on His Truth!! We must remember Brothas and Sistas, If its not Christ, Crucified and Resurrected in us, then its NOTHING at all!"
Enjoy the Day because we are Blessed; be a Blessing!
Claudia
PRAYER: Thank You Lord, for Keeping us and bringing us to the beginning of another week. Thank You for You are Forever Faithful, Just and True. Thank You for things being as well as they are.Thank You for Keeping all of Your Promises, they are "Yes" and "Amen in Christ Jesus our Lord." Thank You for Your many many Blessings and Benefits. Thank You for Your Only Son, our Savior, Lord and soon coming King and Thank You for the Light of Christ Jesus our Lord that forever shines in us. "This little Light of mine, I'm going to let it Shine, Let it Shine, Let it Shine, LET IT SHINE!! In Jesus name I pray. Amen!
What Have You Spoken Into Your Child Today?
"This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live." Deuteronomy 30:19
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
I specifically want to talk to the Brothas today but Sistas you can listen in as well. Brothas, what have you spoken into your child/children lately? Fathers, are we speaking words of life or death into our kids? Our kids need to hear words of affirmation from us to help them excel to the next level in life. We can give our children years of blessings or cursing.
Joshua tells us that we have a choice, but he would rather that we chose life so that we may live and our children may live. My grandfather, whom I did not get to know very well, never really had a close relationship with his sons nor did he speak words of affirmation into their lives before he died. And because he did not, my father carried the same curse into his relationship with his six sons.
Now, eventhough my dad didn't speak words of affirmation my mother did. Not that I did not want to hear them from her, but there is something about when a man, a father speaks into his child's/children's life/lives. It gives a child that feeling of confidence that makes him feel as though he can do anything just because those words came from dad.
You see no matter how much I excelled in things that I did, I never got a word from my dad, nor did he show up for any of my awards ceremonies. Year after year I received no words of affirmation from my dad. And yes, I was hurt; absolutely, but my mother always kept encouraging me in spite of what she saw me and my Brothas go through. And that my Brothas and Sistas, is what kept me going.
I didn't hate my dad. I just didn't understand why he would not support me or tell me how proud he was of me. So instead of having anger and bitterness settle in I chose life and vowed not to be that way towards my kids when I grew up.
Brothas, our children need to hear words of affirmation/encouragement from us. They need us involved in their lives. They hunger and desire touch and affection from us as fathers. Don't get me wrong mothers play a big role in our children's lives, but Dad's we play an even bigger role in them being all they can be just because we tell them so.
Just so you know my dad came to my initial sermon some years back. That was the first time he came to anything to support me and after the service was over he actually said,"Hey, that was a great sermon and I'm proud of you." My heart burst with overwhelming joy as tears rolled down my face and I hugged my dad."
Brothas, that moment was more memorable to me than all of the other times he disappointed me. That one moment was what really counted to me. Fathers, speak words of life and not death into your child's/children's lives, so that you and your children may live.
"The Dignity of Fatherhood must be preserved. Our children need strong men. Real Fathers protect families, working together, supporting and loving one another. A child's chance to escape from anger and injustice begins with one man, The Father. Save our children, Save our families." Heritage Treasures
Til next time, Take care.
Minister Washington
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We praise you for the dignity of fatherhood that you have placed within each one of our Brothas that are parenting a child/children. Help them to speak words of life and not death into the lives of their children. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Who's Your Master? Who Are You Living For?
"What shall we say, then? shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?" ( Rom. 6: 1 -2 )
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
When Jesus went to Calvary to pay the price for our sins, He paid it past, present, and future. He died once, once for all! He will never die again.
The word all is used to refer to the whole quantity or extent of a particular group or thing, everyone, everybody, each person, every person., All; meaning wholly, without limits. We as born-again believers, cannot allow sin to control the way we live. We cannot give in to sinful desires. No part of our body should become an instrument to sin, whether it be our mouth the things that we say, our hands, the things that we do, our feet, the places we go, our eyes, things we are watching;, not one part, of our body; none! Instead we should be giving ourselves completely to God because we are dead to sin but alive in Christ Jesus.
So let's use out instruments to do what is right for the glory of God. Sin is not our master. We are no longer living under the requirements of the law. We live under the freedom of God's grace. How great is that? free from sin a slave to righteous living. Who's Your Master? Who Are You Living For?
You become a slave to whichever one you choose. You can choose to obey sin which leads to death or you can choose to obey God which leads to righteous living, and life. (Rom.6:12-14)
Here are some suggestions on how to not allow sin to control us.
1. Identify personal weaknesses.
2. Recognize the things that tempt us.
3. Stay away from sources of temptation.
4. Consciously invest time and good habits and service.
5. Always lean on God strength and Grace.
Prayer of Faith
Lord,
Thank you for convicting us of our worldliness - our desire to choose things over you. Help us to desire you more than anything. Open our eyes daily to those thongs that pull us away from you. Our desire is to love you completely with all our being. We commit this prayer to you recognizing we need you to change us. In jesus name we pray. Amen.
How Do I Deal With Resentment?
Watch "Benjamin Dube ft Jekalyn Carr - Do It Lord - Gospel Praise & Worship Song" on YouTube
Watch "Ain't No Way" on YouTube
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" Philippians 2:5
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Many marriages have struggled or are struggling with one or both having resentment towards their spouse. My Brothas and Sistas, resentment happens when one has been hurt and treated unfairly in some way or another. Resentment is a painful bitterness that stems from unforgiveness. Resentment can feel very heavy and can last a long time if not dealt with. Resentment can also cause physical and mental issues if we hold on to it.
We have said or done some things in our marriages that have wounded our spouses deeply. Some sources of resentment can involve a spouse having long work hours, not enough time being spent with one another, unwillingness to go places with one another or not showing genuine interest in our spouses and the list goes on and on. When we have been wronged it originates with the hurt the spouse has experienced and when it is not dealt with it goes from anger to bitterness and before we know it we are resentment. Then we begin to look at our spouses with disgust; not wanting to be touched. As the mind thinks that's what we become. Instead of holding it in, we must begin to talk about it one step at a time.
It's possible that we may be looking at it or taking the situation the wrong way. Sometimes it may be someone or something else that is causing our resentment towards our spouse. Sometimes it could be wanting what we see in someone else that we may not be getting or seeing in our spouse. I believe we should look at the root cause of what is causing us to feel the way we do. Then we need to admit to our spouse's what is going on inside of us. But just as we would do with anything that we are involved in we need to pray before we begin so that Christ is in the center of the conversation and we need to pray that God will heal us while we are expressing our pain. When we choose to hold on to resentment it will eventually lead us to having an affair or filing for a divorce. Brothas and Sistas, lets's deal with our resentment so that it does not have to end this way. Take care till next time.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Thank you Lord for our marriages, our soul mates, and our relationship with you. Help us to stop resenting our spouses. Give us a time and space to talk to them about our resentment and work as a team and resolve it. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Tea Time With Tabby "A Brew of Loving Like Christ No Exceptions"
"My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, ‘Here’s a good seat for you,’ but say to the poor man, ‘You stand there’ or ‘Sit on the floor by my feet,’ have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?....... If you really keep the royal law found in scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’[a] you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as law-breakers. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it." James 2:1-10
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
I pray that you have each awaken with a sense of complete fullness and love for and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Today's Brew is one that can curdle my Tea more quickly than any other brew. So let's grab our favorite Tea Cups and see what Christ desires to pull from our Tea Cupboards today. Let's anticipate what He desires to put upon the shelf to replace this souring and curdling brew. This Brew is so prevalent in our world today.
We raise our families with truth and love, but often also with bit or a lot of this brew. We don't always even recognize that this is poured from us to our children, family, and friends. How often do we find ourselves in circumstances, conversations, or quick shift of our eyes or body to divert ourselves from making eye contact or human contact with the world in our day. Some examples are the person with the sign asking for food, money, help or finding a job.
How often do we go and drive through McDonald's and just simply grab a happy meal, cup of coffee or bottle of water and say, "God Bless." How often do you find yourself in a conversation with someone who can find fault in everyone but themselves? It can be racial, it can be discriminating against someone or a specific population. People such as person with intellectual disabilities, not as pretty as a super model, someone who lives a lifestyle that doesn't fit our views or someone who has simply let you down too many times to count. So when you are in their presence or just after they depart, your thoughts are raging with anything but kindness or love like Christ.
I know that we are all guilty of this at sometime in our lives or our day. I too am guilty of this at times. Yet I believe that we often choose this very brew to make ourselves feel good about our own sin, lives, failures, and disappointments. We are often so eager to shut down another person's life choices, circumstances, and reveal our own judgment that we forget we too are far from perfection. We are often the judge, jury, and sentencing officer in a split second or following a single interaction. Yet if someone came and took inventory our Private/Personal Tea Cupboards we too would be convicted and sentenced as quickly as we judged that person and their life.
As we read above in our verses today where James was speaking some hard truths for the people of the time. I believe with my whole person that he was speaking and is still speaking to each of us. James was known for speaking the direct and often harsh truth to the those he taught. James goes on to remind us of Christ's greatest command. "If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’[a] you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as law-breakers...."
So we see that Christ has taught us to "let the first person who has not sinned to throw the first stone." Christ calls us to love first, serve second, and judge never! This is not to say that if we see a brother or sister brewing up some sin that could cause them to stumble and fall away from their relationship with Christ that we should not pour them a brew of compassion, discernment, and truth but in the end if that person still chooses to drink a brew that is not pleasing to God, we don't abandon them immediately. We must keep loving as Christ, encouraging as Christ, not condemning or thinking and acting as if we are the Just Judge, and rightful, sentencing judge.
Additionally, there are so many of us that choose what population of people we will choose to befriend, gaze upon or determine their human worth by our corrupt standards. God makes no mistakes, we no longer live in the garden where all was right and perfect. We now are born into a world of sin and demonic presence. Therefore, not everyone will be perfect in your opinion, or have worth and value in your synopsis; or live a lifestyle that you agree with. Yet we are all called to not show favoritism. In the end we are all called to the royal command which is to, "Love one another as your love yourself and your neighbor". There is NO but if, or in case, or I don't agree with their life choices etc... Christ never had a "but" or "what if "in His ministry of loving each of us as we are.
It's my prayer this week that we take captive our thoughts as Paul directs in the book of Romans in your bible. May we reach out and step out of the box we have so cleverly surrounded ourselves and those who have the most influence over. May we choose to love this world and every person in it as Christ loves us.
My challenge to you this week is to really go through your Tea Cupboards and see what brews are sitting and beginning to brew themselves into your life, and ask the Lord our God to replace them with His royal love.
Till next week, may we each remain continually in God's great presence and love without expectation of perfection.
Love,
Tabby
Forgiving From Your Heart
Watch "Forgiveness" on YouTube
“Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go. “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded. “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’ “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.
“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” Matthew 18: 23-35
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Many times we think we have forgiven someone who has wronged us but when confronted by God to extend mercy by way of a kind word or greeting all of the hurt and angry feelings tend to resurface. Even if we are given the opportunity to come face to face with the person our hurt refuses to move beyond yesterday's offense. That my Brothas and Sistas, proves that we have not truly forgiven them because we have not forgiven them from the heart.
Our heart is regarded as the seat of our emotions, the seat of knowledge and wisdom and can be used of man himself or his personality. The Hebrew word for heart is "leb" spoken which stands for the inner part of a person and refers to our will, mind, emotions and understanding. It refers to our moral character and determination.
You see in order for us to truly forgive our entire being within must be in total alignment and subjection with the will of our Heavenly Father. Forgiveness is not a half-hearted act. Our heart which encompasses our will, mind, emotions and understanding are the driving force of our moral character. It must be in total harmony with what is reflected on the inside of us after Christ enters our DNA once we give our lives, heart, and mind to Him. And since He exemplified the epitome of forgiveness in that one sacred act on the cross of dying for our sins we are destined to follow His lead.
That means that we have to allow Christ to do the work from deep within healing every aspect of our prior pain. And this act of mercy requires Him to do a work from the inside out. We cant forgive in just word. Our forgiveness has to go beyond what we say. It has to be in deed also. You see, our words mean nothing unless we act on them.
Question: If you knew your worst enemy was in need and God gave you the provision to supply their need through grace without letting others know or being angry about it would you sincerely extend your hand to help them at their weakest moment without throwing up it up in their face even if they never apologized for the offense?
Ahhh, you see that is where the real test of forgiveness comes in. True forgiveness expects nothing in return. True forgiveness reflects the love and mercy of Christ. He loves us past all of our wrongdoing whether we repent, say we are sorry or not. His love and mercy towards is not conditional. It is not contingent upon our response to Him being gracious to us.
Brothers and Sisters will you forgive from the heart today? Don't just say I forgive and not truly mean it, Act on it, Walk in it. Amen.
"Forgiveness is the economy of the heart. Forgiveness saves the expense of anger, the cost of hatred, the waste of spirit." Hannah More
Prayer of Faith
Thank you Lord for showing us ourselves this morning. It is easy to say we have forgiven someone but not really mean it from the heart. Help us to completely let go of our offenses so that we can successfully fulfill your plan in the earth which is to show love towards the unlovable just as you have shown love, grace, mercy and forgiveness towards us, the unlovable. In Jesus name we pray.
The Voice of Change
"And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The Lord hath not appeared unto thee. And the Lord said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod. And he said, Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it. And the Lord said unto Moses, Put forth thine hand, and take it by the tail. And he put forth his hand, and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand: That they may believe that the Lord God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee. And the Lord said furthermore unto him, Put now thine hand into thy bosom. And he put his hand into his bosom: and when he took it out, behold, his hand was leprous as snow. And he said, Put thine hand into thy bosom again. And he put his hand into his bosom again; and plucked it out of his bosom, and, behold, it was turned again as his other flesh. And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe thee, neither hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will believe the voice of the latter sign. And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land. And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say. And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send. And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart. And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do. And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God." Exodus 4:1-16
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
In order for REAL change to occur and HOPE to prevail someone has to give voice to the current atrocities born out of evil that divide us. It seems as though nothing really ever changes without blood being shed or lives being lost. Pain gives way to progress. Change is not made without sacrifice, even from worse to better.
Someone has to speak truth in order to wake up those who have been lullabied to the nullifying lyrics of hate, discrimination, and ruthlessness. Someone has to sound the trumpet to awaken our nation from this sleep of unjustifiable corruption, chaos, and disparity. Aaron was commissioned by God to be Moses' spokesman. He became a spokesman for his brother, Moses who retreated from speaking out prior to him finding his own voice. In a time when Moses was weak Aaron assisted in holding up Moses's hands. For whenever Moses hands were raised Israel prevailed against it's enemy, the Amalekites. The root word for Amalekites which is Amalek, represents evil at it's purest form. The Amalekites positioned themselves on the side of Pharaoh, a self seeking evil leader of the Egyptian nation. You see the Amalekites had aligned themselves with evil.
Many times we are in a spiritual war with those who have aligned themselves with evil. Those who have aligned themselves with evil go to any length to destroy those who think differently than they do, who act differently than they do, and who look differently than they do. They go against aligning themselves with the very foundation of the truth, the Word of God, which teaches us how to treat our fellow man with the dignity they were born with so that they may live peaceably in a world by the God who created them to be that way.
Brothas and Sistas, we are in an unseen war against evil. We DID NOT ASK FOR THIS WAR. WE DID NOT WAGE THIS WAR. WE DID NOT CREATE THIS WAR. Therefore, it is our responsibility to speak on behalf of our Brothas and Sistas who have lost their lives, confidence, mental peace, and respect for themselves and others to racial biases, injustice, and hate to this war. We must speak on their behalf peacefully (without the violence and the hate they created because we are better than that), precisely, (stick to the issue at hand; do not deviate from the cause), passionately (speaking from the heart out of personal experience, personal loss, and a desire for us and our children to live in a better world) productively (realizing that true change comes about with the presence of results not just lip service), purposefully (having a strategic plan in place that not only calls for change but compels us to change and propels us to be the change) and PRAYERFULLY (pray without ceasing; Prayer is the arm of faith that moves the hand of God!).
Let us hold up our Brothas and Sistas hands and voices. WILL YOU BE THEIR SPOKESPERSON? WILL YOU BE THE VOICE OF CHANGE?
"Nothing paralyzes our lives like the attitude that things can never change. We need to remind ourselves that God can change things. Outlook determines outcome. If we see only the problems, we will be defeated; but if we see the possibilities in the problems, we can have victory." Warren Wiersbe
Prayer of Faith
Lord, we thank you for your many blessings. We are grateful today that every man and woman; boy and girl have been created in your image. We pray that we would accept this great truth that we were all created to be equal by You. No one race is greater than the other. Help us to love unconditionally as you have commanded us to through your word. May we be that voice to those who have been affected by racism. In Jesus name we pray. Amen
God Is In Control!
"GOD IS our Refuge and Strength, He IS our VERY PRESENT Help in the time of all our troubles." Psalm 46:1
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
In the Midst of ALL the chaos in the world, the tribulation in your Life... And destruction on every leaning side...KNOW THIS: GOD IS in CONTROL. He is Seated on the Throne and Christ is sitting at the right hand of God. Col 3:1 says, "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God."
Brothas and Sistas, GOD ALWAYS Has a Plan for your pain, a Will for your trials and a Purpose IN and THROUGH every detail of your life.
"GOD IS our Refuge and Strength, He IS our VERY PRESENT Help in the time of all our troubles." Psalm 46:1 Let God be magnified and everything and everyone brought low. He said, "Be still and know that I AM GOD. I WILL be exalted among the nations, I WILL be exalted in the earth. The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge." Psalm 46:10, 11
If we set our Minds on Christ it teaches us to Depend on Him. We gain wisdom when Seek the Lord's Face forevermore! Since we have received Christ Jesus as Savior and Lord of our lives let's walk in Him, rooted, grounded and established in our faith. [Colossians 2:6, 7],
let's redeem the time because the days are evil. [Ephesians 5:16, 17], and let us continue to allow the Light of Christ to Shine and Burn brightly in us, so that others may come to See, Hear, Know and Experience Him in and through us. He Promised to WORK ALL things together for good to them that LOVE Him, to them who are the called according to His Purpose. Therefore, WE MUST Pause, meditate and reflect on His Truth!! We must remember Brothas and Sistas, If its not Christ, Crucified and Resurrected in us, then its NOTHING at all!"
Enjoy the Day because we are Blessed; be a Blessing!
Claudia
PRAYER: Thank You Lord, for Keeping us and bringing us to the beginning of another week. Thank You for You are Forever Faithful, Just and True. Thank You for things being as well as they are.Thank You for Keeping all of Your Promises, they are "Yes" and "Amen in Christ Jesus our Lord." Thank You for Your many many Blessings and Benefits. Thank You for Your Only Son, our Savior, Lord and soon coming King and Thank You for the Light of Christ Jesus our Lord that forever shines in us. "This little Light of mine, I'm going to let it Shine, Let it Shine, Let it Shine, LET IT SHINE!! In Jesus name I pray. Amen!
What Did I Do Wrong?
Watch "Casting Crowns - Broken Together (Official Music Video)" on YouTube
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4;12
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There are some of you who are asking yourselves the question, "What did I do wrong?" Some marriages are going through a rough patch and it seems as though only one spouse is working to keep the marriage alive. You may be asking yourself, "Why can't we just get along?" or "What is wrong in our marriage?"
Some are trying so hard to try to get answers as to what is going on and why to the point that they feel as though it is no use in trying and are willing to give in and give up. Sometimes we can try to hard and find ourselves frustrated and becoming ill if we are not careful. As my wife often says, "There comes a point where you have to Let go and let God."
Another way to work through problems in your marriage is to speak the spoken word over your marriage. If you are both born again believers when conflict arises, when you are in the midst of a disagreement or when you are troubled, the spoken word is the only thing that can break the yoke or break the chain that holds the weight. Hebrews 12:1 says, "Lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us."
As Billy Vera puts it, "What do you think I would say at the moment when I am faced with the knowledge that you just don't love me anymore." So then you find yourself asking, "What did I do wrong?"
Well, my Brothas and Sistas, it may not be what YOU are doing wrong. It could be something that is deep rooted within your spouse that he/she isn't willing to share. Some spouses are looking for a way out of the relationship and are making it seem as though the problem is you. During this pandemic many things are being revealed while most of us are at home. It has caused some of us to grow closer and it has caused some of us to pull away from each other for reasons that your spouse and only God knows. Brother and Sistas, take the focus off of what you or your spouse might have done wrong and place the outcome or answer to the problem on God and his spoken word.
See you next time.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Lord, help us to realize when it is time to Let Go and Let God. We must release our marriages to you and learn to speak the word over our relationship with our spouse. We lovingly submit our spouses to your care and vow to love them unconditionally. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Teatime With Tabby - A Brew of Love At All Cost
I Peter 4:8, "Above all love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins."
Good morning Brothers and Sisters,
I pray that the Peace and Love of Christ's Abounding Love is surrounding you today. Today's brew is one that is hard to pour, its especially hard to pour for someone who you love but that is not being loving towards you. Yet Christ calls us to love one another as this is one of first commandment that Christ declared. This is certainly a brew that we can see throughout Christ's life here upon earth. This is clearly the Brew that God, the Father pours for each of us daily. This brew needs to be taken from our Tea Cupboards brushed off and surely brewed every day.
Let's examine how God has so loved us that His perfect plan for humans was thought out and determined before He so much as spoke light into the world. God created us with a heart, soul, and spirit that would always crave love from Him and from others relationally. He put within our spirit the desire to love like Him through parenting, serving, and sharing the good news of Christ. Yet we often find ourselves eager and willing to pour this Brew for a stranger at the coffee shop who needs you to pass the sugar or in the grocery store line when you give someone a little extra so that they can afford their purchases. We demonstrate this in some of the most simple ways holding a door, smiling or offering a neighbor assistance.
Now let's examine how often we don't reveal or demonstrate this love in our homes. Let me share an example of this in my own home. My spouse can be less than encouraging at times. When he is stressed he can be critical. I sit here today not sharing this Brew of Love at all costs with him. I admit that I know that the Lord expects this of me. I know that I would have peace in my spirit if I would only take this brew from its shelf and pour some for him. Yet I hold back. You may be asking why? I tell you the truth this is the hardest brew to make a pot of when you have been offended or feel less valued, or disrespected, or have lost faith in the words and heart of someone you love.
Satan loves it when he is able to manipulate circumstances to create this brew of anger, hurt, dismay and doubt about your faith and hope in the one(s) we love. Satan instead of encouraging us as Christ would to love one another abundantly as love covers many sins comes in and mixes up this brew discouragement. I confess to you today that this is a brew of bitterness. I have sipped upon over and over again these past few days. It is certainly the brew that I sent him off to work with and said goodnight to him with. I share this not to brag about my flaring flesh but to encourage you to examine what you have been pouring in your home and life. This is not a brew that I desire to ring. I know that this is a fleshy brew that I need to not only confess to Christ but that I must pour it out at His feet and ask Him for His strength to overcome as in my own power I will surely continue to pour this brew when my emotions determine my actions and not the truth of Christ!!
I so wish that this Brew of Love in any and all circumstances came naturally to me. How about you? Have you shared this brew of bitterness and discontent with those you love, those closest to you? It's my prayer that in this moment that our loving God who loves us with everything and loved us so much before He ever so much as spoke light into existence would cleanse my heart. I pray that you will too be examining your Tea Cupboard as I desire to have Him come in and do a complete overhaul.
Christ was a carpenter and He is the Carpenter of our Spirit. He is fully capable of coming in and tearing out the old Tea Cupboards of our life. He will build new ones that the shelves will only hold the Blessings, Compassion, Understanding, Faith, Hope and Love that He Brews. These Brews will each be uniquely created for each of us. For where we stand today and He will maintain the inventory to ensure that each time we reach for our Tea Cups and our Tea Leaves it will be as if we have reached His hand. He will be in every brew as we have allowed Him to transform our lives. We are a new creation in Christ. He is our Brew Master. He is our strength. He is our Love.
You see when we stop trying to be the Brew Master and allow the One and only True, Capable, Sovereign and All Gracious Lord of our Lives take charge. We will experience true life change. Now does this mean that my spouse will no longer be critical or unkind at times... NO NO NO NO!! It simply means that I will no longer be pouring the brew. It means that I will have Christ within my spirit and by allowing Him to live life through me I will have the distinguished gift of seeing my spouse through Christ's eyes and not my own. Remember Christ is a Gentleman and He will not push Himself upon us. God created us with freewill so that we can choose to accept His love, direction, and purpose for our lives. I will not need to seek my worth, value, and truth about who I am through or from anyone. It will be established in Christ and revealed to me through the brews I allow Him to pour into my life, soul, and spirit.
Therefore Brothers and Sisters, I ask Christ for forgiveness and accept His gift of forgiveness and freedom in choosing Him as my Brew Master. Through Him I become complete. Every need my spirit and soul desire can only be found through Him.
It's my prayer today that you will sit with the Brew Master of your life. Determine for yourself if Christ is your Brew Master. Spend some time in His word and come to know the one and only Peace Giver.
Come to a place of responding to His call for your life. As we must lose our lives to find them. Give Christ the keys to your Tea Cupboard allow Him to move in and make all the necessary renovations. I promise that once you do and fully allow Him to be Truth Giver in your life and allow these truths to replace the lies of Satan you will be able to Love at all Costs. Remember that Christ was the PERFECT example of Love at ALL COSTS. He did this on a Cross over 2000 years ago just for you!!
Hidden is Christ's Love at ALL Costs,
Tabby
Don't Let Pain Keep You From Your Purpose - Conclusion
Question: Where Is Your Focus?
What is the meaning of Spiritual Purpose? Purpose declares why you and I exist. In other words: Why are you here?
Psalm 138:8 says, “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me, your steadfast love. O Lord endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands. Basically it is saying that God has a purpose for our lives and He intends on accomplishing it.
The dictionary says that purpose is the reason something exists, an intended end, aim, or goal. In other words, purpose creates meaning and offers us a sense of direction and helps guide our paths, our behaviors and goals when applied to our lives.
Rick Warren’s book “A Purpose Driven Life” states that there are 5 purposes for Human Life on earth. (Warren, 2002)
1. You were planned for a purpose. (Worship)
2. You were formed for God’s Family (Christian Church) purpose
3. You were created to become like Christ (Discipleship)
4. You were shaped for serving God. (Christian Ministry)
5. You were made for a mission.
To Be Purpose Driven to be driven by God’s purposes
John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Meaning our hardships aren’t without purpose. Paul of all people, know too well about being beaten, shipwrecks, multiple imprisonments, etc. Everyone that God used mightily throughout scripture went through some form of pain. Moses had to flee his family who wanted to kill him. Elijah had people seeking his death. Job lost just about everything. Yet, scripture repeatedly speaks as to how our pain never concludes without the power of God working through it supernaturally. Our pain is not meaningless but has a purpose.
How do I not allow pain keep me from my purpose?
1.Take your pain to God instead of running from Him. Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, He rescues whose spirits are crushed.” When we take our pain to God we begin to realize that there must be a purpose and in due time He will reveal His purpose through it.
2.Begin to spend some time in His word and with people of like mind. If we don’t process the pain properly, we will miss the healing process. Pain will cause you to think about what is NOT of God, That is why we must spend time around God’s people and get in His word to speak life, hope, encouragement. Ps. 34:8 “Oh taste and see that the Lord us good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him.”
3.Let your mind be filled with worship. I dare you to begin to worship Him. There is something about that name when we choose to worship Him, in the midst of your pain. You see now our mind is not on the pain, although it happened but our focus is on God through worship.
Worship my brothers and sisters, redirects our thinking process. It changes our perspective of our situation. It speaks as to where our hope resides in, Worship places the results in God’s hands. When we begin to worship you and I began to break the spiritual chains that so easily beset us; the chains that held us captive to the circumstances in our lives.
Even though Paul and Silas were in prison they realized that in spite of the pain they suffered it was for the benefit of spreading the gospel, which was God’s purpose. Psalm 30:5 “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Don’t Let Pain Keep You from Your Purpose!!!!!!
What's Killing Your Relationships
Watch "Kirk Franklin-Love" on YouTube
"His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ Matthew 25:21
"Four of the Ten Commandments deal with our relationship to God while the other six deal with our relationships with people. But all ten are about relationships." Rick Warren
Good morning Brohas and Sistas,
Just the other day my neighbor and I began to converse and she began to talk about our hydrangea that was being overshadowed and overwhelmed by a holly tree that we had cut down sometime ago. The Holly began to grow back. But as it grew back it began to choke the life out of the beautiful hydrangea. The beautiful buds that would normally sprout at the first sight of Spring no longer bloomed as it once did.
While we were talking she also pointed out a beautiful tree on the side of our house that grows yearly on the side of our home with beautiful flowers. There was a weed that my husband and I never even noticed growing up in between it. The weed almost camouflaged itself and you would have to look very closely to see that it was a weed instead of the actual tree. This weed was killing the natural beauty of the tree we admired for so many years. The flower that normally appeared in the Spring was no longer there.
Our schedules over the years did not allow us the time we needed to care for the hydrangea and our once beloved tree. I talked to my husband about cutting down the holly again and pulling that overbearing weed up. As we were out there pulling the now dead parts of the tree away from the living parts a thought came to mind. How many times do we unknowingly allow things or people to kill our relationships? We can have a once thriving relationship relinquish itself to a lifeless, mere acquaintance because we no longer give it the attention that we once did.
You know the Lord holds us accountable in being good stewards. He has called us to be good stewards of our relationships as well. Our relationships flourish when we take time out for them, when we pour into them and when we nurture them so that they can grow into something beautiful.
Brothas and Sistas, What's kiling your relationships? It is time for you to pull away from those things and people that take you away from those the Lord has placed in your lives for you to be good stewards over. God wants your relationships to flourish. Make the commitment to give your time and attention to them. Amen.
"In the time we have it is surely our duty to do all the good we can to all the people we can in all the ways we can." - William Barclay
Lovingly,
Michelle
Prayer of Faith
Lord, we thank you for the relationships you have blessed us with. Teach us how to become good stewards over them. May we never neglect them but give them the time and attention they need. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Make Up Your Mind
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 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. 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. James says that that person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.”
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Have you ever been to the beach and you were sitting on the balcony of your room or on the beach and you watched the waves come in and the wind blows? The harder the wind the stronger the waves. This is exactly how we sometimes are as Christians. We can be like the waves of the ocean.
James, the half brother of Jesus writes to the 12 tribes that were scattered abroad and to the Jewish Christians. Here we have what is framed within an overall theme of patience, perseverance during trials and temptations. James writes to encourage believers to live consistently with what they have learned in Christ. He wants his readers to mature in their faith in Christ by living what they say they believe.
I would like to propose that we all have been affected at one point in time not being able to make up our minds, being double-minded, or wavering. James talks about that because you see James has been there. It took him a minute to believe that his half brother, Jesus was the Messiah. So as you can see James knows what it is to be a double minded person.
Double-minded means wavering in mind; undecided. It means being torn in two directions; having two minds. No Christian becomes double-minded overnight. It takes time to develop an unrelenting desire to pursue a particular course, until we part ways with that thing which is stabbing at Jesus all the time, we will still continually find ourselves in a state of inner turmoil.Wavering means to lose strength, determination or purpose, to begin to doubt. Let's look at the contrast in scripture.
James 1:1-8, Matthew 6:24 Hebrews 11:1, 3
He spoke of the one who wavers. A double minded person tries to serve two masters. As such he is unstable which means wavering. Listen we can’t be both certain and doubting at the same time as a double minded person. Now faith is being sure of what we hope for. By faith the universe was formed by God's command.
When the bible tells us not to waver it means don’t flinch as to what the word of God says. Isn’t it amazing how so many times we hold fast in the church but the moment we leave out from the worship experience we begin to waver. Listen God doesn’t move on our time but His time. You see we want to have the provision, but don’t want the burdens, we want the victories, but not the challenges. We want deliverance without even going into the fiery furnace like Shadrach, Meshack, and Abenego. When you have your mind made up to believe God at His word, you will not waver in your faith.
Lazarus had been dead for 4 days and there was a stone in front of the grave. Jesus says to Mary, “Did I not tell you that I am the resurrection and he that believeth in me shall never die And they said, “Yes.” Then Jesus asked them, “Do you believe this? Because if you do then I will bring him back to life and they said, ”Lord, I believe.”
Can God count on you to wait on the Lord and be of good courage like David? Can God count on us to trust in His word when others tell you that you should give up? In the book of Mark Jesus says, have faith in God whatever it is. If you don’t have faith you will never see His answer, you will never see His praise, You will never see His power. How do I know? Look at James 1:7, “He who doubts will receive nothing from the Lord. When your in a battle, the only victory you have is faith that overcomes the world.
The bible is filled with imperfect people and often times we want to emphasize on their imperfections. I believe we got it wrong. It is their faith that qualifies them not their imperfections. How do I know? In Romans 4:3 it says that, “Abraham’s faith was counted as righteousness unto him. Look there are a lot of imperfect Christians that don’t have faith but it is impossible to please God without it. Abraham being called by God didn’t waver but believed God. We want God to speak to us but the words of the Lord are right here in this book filled with verses, chapters, line upon line and yet we say I need God to speak to me. Open the book and His words will speak to you what you want to know and hear.
God’s delays are not God’s denials. Have you been waiting on the Lord for an answer? "They that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall run and not grow weary. They shall walk and not faint." Have you taken God at His word?" Don’t stop believing even when others say you should. They may give up, but don’t you give in. They may not endure but stand without wavering, hold fast to your faith. Carry on with the blessed assurance that Jesus is mine and that nothing and I mean nothing is too hard for God and that all things are possible but whatever you do, Don’t Waver!
Even if you have walked with the Lord for years, a double-minded life will avoid, bypass, dodge much of the good which the Holy Spirit wants to work in you and through you. What we as believers desperately need is to fully surrender our hearts and minds to the Lord.
Listen the reason why a wavering or double-minded person seems to have old habits hang on indefinitely, is because those old habits are the fruit of an unstable heart and mind. “Whatever a man thinketh so is he.” Proverbs 23:7 The only way to enjoy the joy and peace that God has for us is to get back to a single minded approach to Christian Living....so make up your mind! Amen.
"If you don’t make up your mind, your unmade mind will unmake you." Eli E. Stanley Jones
Have a great day!
Minister Antonio Washington
Who Are You At the Core?
"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." Ephesians 5:25
Watch "Casting Crowns - Broken Together (Official Music Video)" on YouTube
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Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There are many married couples whose spouses are saying, doing, and living two lives. On one side they are the person that most everyone sees and admires but yet have a different lifestyle on the other side. You may be saying, "Well like what?" Well, I'm glad you asked.
You have those who appear to be a loving husband and good Christian man but is verbally abusive to his wife, who speaks encouraging and comforting words to other women but can't or won't speak life or love into his own wife.
Then you have those who say they love their wives but on the other hand they are telling the other woman, "If loving you is wrong I don't want to be right." while all along giving her the love that should be given to his wife.
I remember talking with a young lady a few years ago and she began to tell me about some of the things that her husband was doing whereas he didn't want to do much with her. She would suggest different places to go, she would dress up in sexy apparel to surprise him from time to time and he would look at her and ask what are you doing?" Or he would look at her, turn around and head out the door to go to a family member's home.
To make a long story short, after some months, the truth was revealed to her that he was having an affair and everything she did such as the pop us sexy surprises, the places she wanted for them to go etc., her husband's lover was doing and had been to the places she suggested.
Brothas, who are we at the core? There are some who are giving money every month to help support the other woman. There are some even on the down low. This is not what God intended for our marriages to be. We have two choices either fess up and walk away or get things right with God and our spouses. God has a greater plan for our marriages when we confront our own sin and turn away from it so that we can turn to God's best for our marriages.
Take care until we meet again.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Lord, please forgive us of living one way in front of people and living another way behind closed doors with our spouses. Deliver us from hypocrisy. Help us to repent and walk upright so our marriage can be what you ordained them to be. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Teatime With Tabby
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters,
I hope everyone had a chance to clean out their Tea Cupboards and make room for some new and amazing Brews that God has designed for you and you alone.
Today I feel led to talk about some of the pressures that society places on us, woman in particularly, even more so some that we place on ourselves. Are we to drink of the brew of self love or as I prefer to a call this brew a little something different, The Brew of Loving myself as Christ loves me? I distinguish this brew from brews that are much more worldly. I don't love myself in or by a worldly standard. I am talking about a brew of faith, belief in Christ and who He says you and I are in His eyes.
Brothers and Sisters, lets grab our tea cups as we look at the lives of some women I have known and my own story of lack of self love that plummeted into many pits of despair, darkness, and great sin.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, I have heard just in the past week that several of my beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ who are walking with Him and some that aren't share the same theme in their brew, which involves a sense of worthlessness. They believe that somehow they have done or been or committed terrible things in the brews they have chosen and now have them feeling lost, hopeless, desperate, worthless, unlovable, to messed up to ever have intimacy with the Father or a life partner. So you see they don't see the Father's tender hands and open arms waiting for them, longing for them. He is ready to unleash all the loving comfort and assurance that they need right where they are now, if they would just lift their eyes to see and a heart to hear.
They are each in the need of the brew of Faith, Hope, and God's Truth. God says that once we are His daughters nothing can separate us from His Love. You see Sisters, it doesn't matter how many brews of Sin, Self destruction, Sorrow, Poor Choices, and distance we have drank, the King and Savior of the universe is still with me and you. We must confess our sins to the Lord Jesus and once we do they are cleansed and we are forever more.
I know from personal experience what each of those brews and may other destructive brews can do. Yet I sit here this morning with a heart full of love and hope and I am able to love me; the good, the bad and the sometimes ugly. I'm able to do so because I met the Father and Savior when I finally came to the end of myself. Sisters, I am only able to do this because I began drinking the brew of Christ Confidence and love for me and every one of you. Christ does not desire that any of us would lay in despair without his comfort there for us.
Christ Confidence, what is this brew all about? He designs this brew differently for each us depending on what our defeat and loss of self love for whichever pit we are sitting in. He designs a brew that is exactly what He knows we need to get back to Him. I have learned that this brew can be considered worldly but if you are careful and certain that you are to drink the Brew of Self Love that Christ created and poured for you rest assured worldliness can be poured from the same tea pot that Christ is pouring into our despair. Please know and share with every person you encounter that is in need of such a brew. Be confident that He will brew for them the exact brew they are in need of at that moment.
The difference between the Brew of Self Love that is of this world is one that makes us selfish and desiring only to please ourselves; our "Adam and Eve" complex. When we drink from this cup we are only seeking to serve ourselves not our Lord or the world He created and entrusted to us.
The brew I am speaking of is a brew of Loving acceptance that you are perfect the way Christ, the Lord God made you. And that He created you to be someone that has a life that reveals truth and shines His light of love to a dark and hurting world. Sisters, we will never be taken serious or have the impact that this Brew has the potential for if we don't first love ourselves as Christ loves us.
As I mentioned I have a few dear Sisters that are struggling to find their way to this brew. They are each in different places on the path towards the Tea Cupboard yet they each have their own struggles in reaching it. Some have forgotten what it was like to be enveloped in His amazing Love and being at the center of His will for their lives. Some feel are so alone and have forgotten that they don't recall how VERY MUCH He loves them. Some are a bit further down the path to where this brew awaits them. They may be struggling but they see the steam from the Tea Pot and are headed directly towards it. Others still yet don't know, understand or have ever experienced a dynamic loving all encompassing real relationship with Christ. They have believed but not yet walked with Him.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, there are so many different reasons, trials, failures, loss, defeat, lack of understanding and darkness that Satan pours in to our Tea Cups. These brews need to be replaced with the truths of God and Christ. So here are few to help you find your way on the path to self love, so that you can understand and experience Christ's love for you. Additionally, so that you will have several reference points to turn to when you are in despair the following will help you know without a shadow of doubt that the Father loves you and knows that you are more precious than gold or any other thing that He could choose.
You are His chosen daughters and Love(s) of His Life. Before I list all the promises of God there is one brew that I hold tightly too. That is the Brew that God's love will endure forever and that He loves me besides my sin. He promises that once we are His, He will never stop seeking after us. He promises that His Love will always be available to us. We need nothing more than to seek Him earnestly even in our weakest moments. He will meet us there and pour the perfect brew to fill us with His love, salvation and redemption.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, I pray that you find the strength through Him today to once again allow the Father and Savior, Jesus Christ to love you. To do this you must once again believe with whatever amount of hope and faith you can muster up that you are worthy of His love because you are. After all He created you to love you. He died on the cross to save you and He arose again to give you everlasting life. Take and drink these brews as He brewed them specially and uniquely for each of us.
God's Promises
What can be said about God's promises to us?
1. He has promised to supply every need we have. The Bible says: "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus". That's Philippians 4:19. Now notice, God has obligated Himself only to the extent of our needs. That would include food, clothing, shelter, companionship, love, and salvation through Jesus Christ. It would not include the multiplicity of luxuries that we have come to think of as needs.
2. God has promised that His grace is sufficient for us. (II Corinthians 12:9). in fact, He has made provision for our salvation by His grace through faith. Read Ephesians 2:8. It is through an obedient faith that we have access into the grace of God according to Romans 5:2.
3. God has promised that His children will not be overtaken with temptation. Instead, He assures us that a way of escape will be provided. This promise is recorded in I Corinthians 10:13. Jude wrote: "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present your faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy." (Jude v 24). Darius, King of the Medes, said to Daniel, "Thy God whom thou serve continually, he will deliver thee" (Daniel 6:16). He did deliver Daniel from the den of lions.
4. God has promised us victory over death. He first resurrected Jesus by way of assuring our resurrection. Peter said: "This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we are all witnesses" (Acts 2:32). Paul wrote to the Corinthians: "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures" (I Corinthians 15:3,4). Later on he adds: "but thanks be to God, which gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Corinthians 15:57).
5. God has promised that all things work together for good to those who love and serve Him faithfully (Romans 8:28). It may be difficult for us to see and understand how this is accomplished at times, but God has promised it and He will deliver.
6. God has promised that those who believe in Jesus and are baptized for the forgiveness of sins will be saved. (Read Mark 16:16 and Acts 2:38).
7. God has promised His people eternal life (John 10:27,28).
In closing, let me appeal to you to live so that the promises of God will be yours.
Love,
Tabby
Don’t Let Pain Keep You from Your Purpose
Isaiah 30:20-21 "And although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them; Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way, walk in it.”
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Here we have Isaiah, a painful prophet that prophesied changes in your pain. What was causing his pain. The children of Israel were rebelling against God. The definition of affliction is great suffering, a course of persistent pain or distress. Being afflicted by something that causes suffering.
Let’s first look at “Bread of Adversity, The definition of adversity is difficulties and misfortune. which means that sometimes when we are going through adversity and affliction, we draw away from society and create our own prison. There are six types of adversity; physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and financial. When adversity comes your way, you really get to see who your friends are. Listen when you are going through a valley experience this set of scriptures in Isaiah 30 will give you what you need. You may be asking me in your mind. Minister Washington, “What do you mean by that?” I am glad you asked. There are those who will contribute to what you are going through as poor choices, some will claim that you are under the judgement of God like they did with Job.
Let’s take a look at Psalm 23. In Psalm 23:4 David talks about the valley. You see the valley experience as it relates to the pain Yeah though I was through the valley shadow of death. Eventhough he was going through the valley. The shadow of death is just a shadow because in order for us to have a shadow there must be light. The shadow is the evil presence in our lives. God is light. In order to have a shadow there must be light. That is why David said I will fear no evil for thou art with me.
Pain, pain, pain can cause us a lot of problems although it shouldn’t. All of us at one point or another have experienced pain; some small such as hitting your toe or arm or elbow etc. We experience medium pain such as broken bones, a nail puncture in our body. But then we experience major pain such as ulcers, appendicitis, heart attacks or church hurts.
Even death causes us pain some to the point where some of us pretty much die with that person. We begin to question how, why and begin to try and make sense out of the pain and even feel as though it was meaningless for that person to die. Pain sometimes can cause us to change from what or who we are. Pain my brothers and sisters can keep you and I from our purpose. Some of us become resentful. Some begin to feel hopelessness. Now I am talking about the body of Christ.
When we are in pain it is easy to hate the people who hurt us. Pain causes us to be broken, the problem is that we just don’t know how bad. Pain can cause us to lose the desire to fight!!! And begin to tear our life apart from within. I remember someone saying that while the rest of the bible speaks to us, the Psalms speaks for us. Ecclesiastes shares with us in our pain and frustration. He had seen and done it all. In Ecclesiastes Solomon had a similar conclusion from the pain and frustration as he states that life is meaningless. That’s when I realized that purpose and peace are indeed found in something different altogether................
I will continue this discussion on next week.
Learning to Let Go
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Life's lessons are so hard to learn at times. There are times when I would rather hit the reset button in order to avoid one of God's teachable moments. I do this especially when I know the end result can be painful. And I bet you do to.
One of those lessons just happen to deal with letting go of those whom we love. Brothas and Sistas, I know you must struggle with this too. There are some people that we love and admire so dearly that we are willing to disobey the promptings f the Holy Spirit in order to keep them close to us when He has clearly told us that keeping the relationship is more harmful than letting go.
Brothas and Sistas, we must learn to let go of people not only for our good but for their good as well. Believe it or not holding on is a form of idolatry. Anything or anyone that we cling to over doing God's will we unknowingly put in His place. His will should always be at the core of our Christian walk. It so easy to place people on the throne and develop unhealthy codependent alliances of which we can find ourselves compromising the very convictions that we are supposed to hold high.
Here is the question I pose to you.... How much of God's will are you willing to compromise at the expense of receiving His best because you are holding on to a relationship that He has clearly told you to let go of? Brothas and Sistas, learn to let go. Letting go not only brings you new found freedom but it frees the one that you are trying to hold on to. Amen.
Blessings,
Denise
Prayer of Faith
Thank you Lord for teaching us life's lessons. Help us to let go when we try so desperately to hold on to those you have told us to let go of. May we trust you more than we trust our emotions. We desire to have you and not people on the throne. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Brothas and Sistas Are You At Peace with Each Other
"Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." Romans 14:19
"Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you." II Corinthians 13:11, 12
"The incentive to peacemaking is love, but it degenerates into appeasement whenever justice is ignored. To forgive and to ask for forgiveness are both costly exercises. All authentic Christian peacemaking exhibits the love and justice - and so the pain - of the cross." John Stott
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
I woke up with the word peace in my spirit this morning. Brothas and Sistas, peace is defined as the absence of war or hostilities, an agreement or a treaty to end hostility, freedom from quarrels and disagreements, having a relationship in peace with each other, and inner contentment to surrender to peace of mind.
Brothas and Sistas, when we begin to meditate on this definition, can we really say as Christians we surrender to peace? Can we live in peace with others even when we really do not want to? Or do we find reasons to keep strife going on or finding the little things that we dislike about someone keep quarrels going on amongst us? Romans 14:19 says, "Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." That means we have to make a conscious effort to work at this thing.
I have a question for you. Who wants to wake up every morning in bitterness? Or better yet go through an entire day joyless, worried, and angry because they are not at peace? II Corinthians 13:11 says, "Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you."
Brothas and Sistas, we must allow God to search our hearts to find the reason that we are not living in peace as a Christians and do something about it.
"If thou wouldst find much favor and peace with God and man, be very low in thine own eyes. Forgive thyself little and others much." Robert Leighton
Love ya,
Josette Bolden
Tea Time With Tabby - How Is Your Brew These Days Weak or Strong & Fortified?
Good morning Brothers and Sisters,
I hope and pray that you have all been well and know that you are loved child and heir to the Most High King, Jesus Christ. Today I must confess that my Tea has been a bit on the weak side this past week and coming into today. You may be asking yourself, "How could Tea that Christ pours be considered a weak brew?" Well Brothers and Sisters, that's where you have me. I have been brewing my own Tea of strength lately, making for a very overwhelmed and weak brew.
I can give you all the same excuses I have given the Lord; "I am too busy.", "Work is crazy." or "There is too much to accomplish and not enough time." The family drama, work place drama and good ole life drama is overwhelming. Yet as I sit here before each of you, I know that I am in the wrong. Not that any one of those things couldn't turn most of us into a tail spin but you see I have no excuse. None! Brothers and Sisters, it's all whining and no dining!
What do I mean by all whining and no dining? Simply put, I am not choosing to scoot up to the Master's table, my Savior and yours, where I can allow Him to Brew me a nice "strong, fortified, blessed, and best Tea for my Tea Cup tea". I am not feasting on His Word, rather I am consuming from the false feast that world has laid out before all of us.
I am allowing Satan to trick me into believing these three simple words, "I Got It!" Well the truth is, I so don't have it, not unless I am feasting and drinking the Brew of Tea the Master, my Savior and Lord, Yahweh. He is sitting at the table with the Tea of strength, wisdom endurance, insight, perfect plan and solution to all my dilemmas.
Can anyone relate? Can anyone else fall into this very same snare that will surely drop me into a pit of despair faster than I can say it if I don't or we don't choose to untangle our lives and run into the open arms of our loving Savior? Oh, I know what you are thinking, "I just said to untangle ourselves from snares and trappings of the evil one and run to loving arms of our Savior." Am I not trying to say "I got it" again? No, I am not because we don't need any more strength than you would find in a mustard seed to accomplish this feet. You see Yahweh will do all the work. All I (we) have to do is trust Him. Simply speak out His name, call out to Him and He will always come and save His beloved children.
You see all it takes is for us to let our Tea Cups yearn for His brew and He will be there to love on us and hold us up. He will give us strength we didn't even know we could muster up inside ourselves. You see He tells us all through His book of love and life instruction that HE is the Way, the Truth and the Light; He is Strong when I am weak and He is where my strength comes from. I alone am weak and frail. Yet with Him at my side, in my life, being my personal Brew Master I am strong even during the storms. I know that I can withstand all that the world and the evil one has to bring up against me for Yahweh, my Creator, My Savior, my Redeemer always stands in the gap for me.
Now Brothers and Sisters, please understand that our God is a loving God and is the perfect parent to us which may mean that we have to walk through some deserts, some rocky roads, and challenging times in life, but we never walk alone. Through disobedience, not keeping the covenant, and following the ways we know are true and right, we face consequences; real life stuff; stuff that we may never think we can get through or escape from or ever find the freedom that comes from knowing and walking with our Savior.
Let me tell you straight out God has walked through some treacherous times and minefields in this life with me, some a result of my own disobedience and others at the hands of others evil flesh. Yet, I stand here today in the freedom of Christ. I also stand here today with a nudging at my spirit that I am starting to walk off the path that He has placed my feet on, as I fell into the trap of self reliance yet again.
If any of you are in this cycle where you just keep recycling the bad and are no't finding any peace, love, joy, happiness, or knowledge of and real deep down belief heart knowledge that you are loved by the God of Universe then I ask you to join me in praying that our feet will return to path God has set out before us, and that we will hunger to always remain at His table, feasting on His truth's and drinking the Brew of the day that was created singularly for you and I.
Brothers and Sisters, I pray that you will join me in asking the Father for forgiveness for wandering off into the wilderness of this life, departing from His strength that we have 24/7 access to simply by asking. Sometimes we can be so weak or so caught up in the snares that we can't even muster the words, "HELP ME, DEAR JESUS" yet I promise you 100% that if you simply allow that to become the words of your heart you will be heard; you will be strengthened. You will have enough and a nice strong brew made especially for you today wherever you are; whatever the snare, Christ has a Brew of holy healing for you filled with love, truth, gentleness, kindness, patience, hope, joy, and self worth. Not the kind that you can find in another person or in the things of this world as they are all fickle, short lived, have no real ability to give you peace, hope, love, joy, or self worth. Eventually these things in their earthly form will come up against you in means of control, destruction of your character, and destruction of the knowledge of who you really are.
How can this happen? Simply because we are still pouring our own Tea into broken and chipped Tea cups because we aren't holding our Tea Cups sacred as the Father does. It's my prayer for you and for me that this be the day that we take back our tea cups from the worldly deceitful, untrustworthy and return it to its rightful owner, its' Creator, the Potter who took and created it from nothing into a beautiful existence.
Brothers and Sisters, our Tea cups and ourselves long to be with the one true King; the King of Kings and Brew Masters of Brew Masters. Our lives are anxiously and excitedly awaiting for Him to start pouring into us love, amazing strength, and freedom. These truths can only be received when we find ourselves at the foot of the cross where we finally say, "Enough is enough." I have tried to do this my way for too long. I am exhausted, confused, depleted, degraded, unloved, disrespected, and simply unable to hold on any longer. Are you there?
This is where He will come, meet us and nourish us back to health. He will have many different brews for us, to retrain our hearts and minds where to go and where to remain, or where to never return. All the while He will be our strength or protector, our everything, but we must surrender ourselves to Him.
I don' know about you but my "I got it" doesn't feel so right anymore. I pray that you will come on this exciting journey with me and find that there is real strength in you, when you rely on Yahweh and not yourself. When you are no longer leaning on or trusting yourself made circumstances and especially not relying on our own understanding as your compass for life and you are now choosing to trust Christ to be all this and so much more for you.
Lord, in closing I confess that I have tried to be my own brew master recently and in the past and every time it winds up the same way. My tea cup can't hold water let alone all the various teas that this world would rather me be sipping on.
Father, I pray that I will remember more quickly, with more gratitude and eagerness to only feast from your table to only allow you to pour into my Tea Cup, not this world or the people within it. May it always have a reserved for God sign hanging right before it. I pray the same for every person whose eyes and hearts You will direct to this devotional that You so graciously put upon my heart and poured out through my hands to the these keys.
May we all know and allow it to sink into our minds and souls that only You grant peace. Everything and everyone else that we trust with our precious tea cups can only pour a brew called chaos that is unless You, Lord are pouring truth, knowledge, and wisdom into their Tea Pots with the direction that You will be using them as vessel to pour your truths love, wisdom, rebuke, and healing into our lives. Give us wisdom and discernment. Don't allow us to be fooled by the many faces of the evil one. I ask all these things in Your Son, Jesus' name by Redeemer and Savior.
Till we meet next week, may you path be lit by shining crown of Christ our Lord,
In Christs' precious name,
Love,
Tabby
True Love. Agape Love Keeps No Record of Wrong
Good morning all,
Brothas and Sistas, the Hebrew word for love is ahava. Love means having a strong, tender feeling for someone; solicitude toward a person, such as that arising from kinship, recognition of attractive qualities, or a sense of underlying oneness.
"Love keeps no record of wrongs." (1 Corinthians 13:5) This means we must trust God and FORGET what has happened to us. (NIV) Love is not adding up an item on a ledger so that it will not be forgotten. Lewis Smedes writes that “Resentment is our memory of the painful, angry past." "But true love holds no grudges. "(LB) The verb Paul uses here means ‘to calculate.’ William Barclay says, "That the word is an accountant’s word. It is the word that is used for entering an item in a ledger so that it will not be forgotten.” Remember Lewis Smedes writes that, “Resentment is our memory of the painful, angry past."
God shows love to us every day. We do not show love for different reasons. We continue not to love or speak to our own neighbor because they probably did something to us in the past or present. Would this be a good response for us on a daily basis? Ask yourselves, "What is God doing for me now and what has God done for me in love???" We live by a double standard at times when it comes to this thing called love. God knows the things we do as well as what others do to us. We must do our part to love regardless of what has happened to us. If we are really offended by a person we should pray for them or go to them in love to explain or express to them how we feel. There are no perfected people in this world; only God is perfect. Our pride will get in our way sometimes and we won't apologize.
If a person is not showing love to you or someone else here are some things you must ask yourself before placing judgment on them.
What has this person experienced in the past?
Are they going through something now?
How can I build into or encourage this person?
There are so many things we must ask ourselves. You never know what is going on in a person's mind. We expect to come to God to talk about all our problems and expect for Him to hear us when we have messed up many times in our own lives. Tell me how selfish can we be at times? We should stop and think about the positive things this person has done for us rather than the negative things they have done to us in the past. God never keeps a record of all of the bad things we do. God made all of us special. It is so easy to remember the bad that someone has done to us rather than remembering the good or great things they have done for us. I am speaking to myself as well as all of you today.
People have done so many things behind my back and especially in my face but I have forgiven them today. I have a long list but what can I do with the list other than keep telling them what they have done to me. No, I must continue to love and pray for them instead. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 states in biblical terms "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."
Personal Testimony
In my own walk, I witness to many people who have decided not to deal with people because they either said or did something hurtful to them. I believe that you would be surprised of their reactions if you would support the person who has hurt you or say a positive word to him or her. God uses all of us for a purpose in this life. When we walk in love like this, God will bless you and others sooner or later. In the past or the future I continue to take part in fellowships, ministries, family functions, etc., eventhough hurtful things have happened to me, but first I must get over it and wait on God to deal with the situation. I am WAITING ON HIM!!
There was a Christian woman and scholar named, Noye Bolden, who is now deceased, from Farmville Virginia who stated, " Love the person anyway if he or she treats you badly and the day will come when God will allow you the opportunity to speak about the problem or minister to them. This woman was my late grandmother.
She would say, "You do not know what God is doing in that person's life, so keep loving on the person." I know God has shown me favor over and over again for so many years by watching and trying to live by her example. In all the days that she was living I never saw this lady not showing love to people. Some of these same people treated her awful, but she just continued to do for them. At her funeral people spoke such great words about her from her community (local cleaners, florist, gas stations, food markets, schools, department stores and especially churches). These people knew her because she showed love to others and spoke to them about the Lord.
She was not rich with money but she was rich with love. She picked people up along the road within the community if they needed a ride to get from place to place without asking for money. She also stated, "Live your day like it is going to be your last time on earth." She meant live life to the fullest. People really did not understand her but everyone loved her because she showed so much love. She always spoke the truth in love. Everyone respected her. love is the biggest commandment we must follow. Mathew 22: 37-39 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
In conclusion, we must think about how God has shown His love toward us? This is a challenge for you all: start loving the ones that say or do bad things to you. Remember Jesus died for our sins. This is the greatest love God has shown to us. Jesus willingly went to the cross as a falsely accused wrongdoer to pay for the sins of the world. It’s hard to imagine that God incarnate (in the flesh) was crucified by us, human beings. Nevertheless, Jesus was beaten, spit upon, mocked, stripped naked and nailed to a tree. Perfection was hated and rejected by imperfect mankind, Christ was crucified. God did this for you and I because He loves us and wanted to express that love to us. How could any intelligent person reject such a wonderful Savior and God? Why can't we show genuine love to one another? Brothas and Sistas, love keeps no record of wrongs.
The Blessing of Saying"No"
"James 1:5, KJV: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. James 1:5, NASB: But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There are times when the Lord will say, “No!” It is not that He does not love us, but it is just the opposite. God knows what’s best for us and sometimes He will say, “No.” and it is actually for our good. Brothas and Sistas, when He says “No.” it can be painful but that pain will never compare to the pain that may come our way if He said, “Yes,” to something He knows it not good for us.
Just recently the Lord convicted me of saying, "Yes.'" to people who in the end were only looking out for themselves when me and my husband were looking out for them. Unfortunately, my husband and I suffered the consequences of our decisions to help them. We allowed our emotions to get the best of us instead of seeking God for wisdom in the situation ahead of time. Seeking God’s wisdom is always best.
Brothas and Sistas, we have learned so many lessons from these experiences within the past two years. Sometimes we can love people to the point of spoiling them too much by not allowing them to grow through their own trials by seeking the Lord and allowing Him to deliver them. We enable them by trying to deliver them from something that God may have allowed them to get themselves into to teach them a lesson. We are noticing more and more that when we say “No.” even to our own children it allows them to seek God for guidance and solve their own problems. They mature when we get out of the way! You see there is a blessing far beyond we could ever imagine when we learn to say, “No.”
Blessings,
Sista Michelle
Prayer of Faith
Lord, there are times when you tell us, "No." and we get angry. Please teach us that you always know what's best for us and we have to say, "No." to those around us when it is for their own good. You love us enough to say, "No." and we are so grateful for it. Teach us that there is a blessing in saying, "No." In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Selfish Love vs. God's Love
"Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another." Galatians 5:26
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Did you know that vain glory is at the root of jealousy among Christians. Jealousy is the common thread which can erode and eventually tear down Christian fellowship, bring churches to naught, do significant damage to the best relationships/friendship, and make siblings disassociate themselves with one another. It can take us some places we never intended to go.
Jealousy is defined as the uneasiness felt due to suspicion, resentment or fear of rivalry, especially in regards to love or affection. Jealousy tells God we are not only unhappy with who He created us to be but it says He could have done a better job at making us either like someone else, better than or better off than someone else. It also tells Him how ungrateful we are for what He has already blessed us with.
When we get a real sense of who WE are in Christ and what He has in store for us we will have no need to be jealous of someone else.
Furthermore when we see our gracious and awesome God blessing another Brotha or Sista knowing that the earth IS the Lords' and the fullness thereof and all that dwell therein.... we will know that since we are His kids and joint heirs with Christ we have just as much right as anyone else who belongs to Him to be blessed.
We will also learn to not only embrace our Brothas and Sistas but celebrate them and the blessings He lavishes upon them. "We're blasted by anger and swamped by rage, but who can survive jealousy?" Proverbs 27:4 Don't let jealousy diminish (decrease, lessen, die off, dwindle) the powerful person He created you to be. "In jealousy there is more self love than Gods love."Amen.
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
Thank you for helping us to not only embrace our Brothas and Sistas but to celebrate them and their blessing. May we walk in the confidence of knowing we are joint heirs therefore we partake in joint blessing and there is no need to be jealous. We love you Lord so help us to extend this same unconditional love to our Brothas and Sistas. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Foreplay Beyond The Bedroom Conclusion
The Song of Songs, which is Solomon's.
Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth!
For your love is better than wine;
your anointing oils are fragrant;
your name is oil poured out;
therefore virgins love you.
Draw me after you; let us run.
The king has brought me into his chambers.
Song of Solomon 1: 1- 4
Brothas and Sistas,
I don’t know what you guys think but the Song of Solomon is pretty HOT!! It’s the perfect view of an intimate relationship between a husband and wife. God is so awesome He makes sure we have everything we need even in our sexual desires for one another. God honors marriage and the marriage bed. Hebrews 13:4
Foreplay in marriage is so important. If I had to give it a meaning I would define it as the great anticipation of coming together in oneness. What Van and I have learned over these last 20 years of marriage is that “Foreplay” starts before you even get into the bedroom. So many times everyone is caught up in what happens behind the closed doors but it can actually begin way before you get there.
For example:
Foreplay can start in the morning when you’ve cooked your mates' favorite breakfast and served it to him/her in bed and added a one stem rose if that’s what they like. It can also be an enduring kiss before your mate leaves out for work followed by a little pat on the bottom. (Please don’t act like y'all don’t know what I’m talking about….smile).
Brothas and Sistas, send your mate a spicy text letting him/her know how much you love them and you’re thinking about them. This keeps that spark in your marriage and keeps the enemy from infiltrating your marriage. Make sure you have a date night and when you go out don’t be afraid of P.D.A. Public Display of Affection such as holding hands or putting your arms around each other.
There have been times when Van has just stopped in the middle of the mall and kissed me…"Woohoooo!” Anyone of these types of foreplay is like making love to your mates mind. If you keep these blueprints in mind by the time you get home all of the ground work has already been laid, if you know what I mean…hint hint.
P.S. Keep your relationship alive and don’t be afraid to be creative. You set your own blueprints based on your mate. Find out what they like and make it happen and most of all have fun!
Elder Van and Gina
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
Thank you for our wonderful mates. We praise you for the gift of marital intimacy. May we take time to engage in foreplay beyond the bedroom so that our marriage bed can be fun and exciting. Help us to go above and beyond in our marriages. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Why Our Suffering Matters To Christ Our Lord, God and Savior
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ." II Corinthians 1:3-5
Quotes:
Pastor Tim Hagen explains that when sin entered the world, death entered. He says" chronic pain, illness, and disease, are all forms of death."
Dr. Richard Leonard, Minister and PhD in Biblical Studies says, "He urges the chronically ill to take their questions to God rather than allow them to become a wedge in their relationship with Him."
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
You may be wondering well with the holiday's just around the bend why I would be serving up what might seem like a sour Cup of Tea this morning. Trust me Sistas on this journey and pick up your Tea Cups sit back and take yourselves to a place in your mind where you may suffer whether it be emotionally, physically, spiritually; or think of someone you know or love or care for that might be in this Pot of Tea.
I was reading an article from "Focus on the Family" and this was no coincidence or accident because this article nailed it right where me and my Tea Cup sat nearly depleted from a week of immense stress and extreme physical pain . Because I suffer from chronic pain there are days you would never know I am and it's my prayer that even on the day that my body is waging war against me that many wouldn't know and would only see Christ through me.
But this is not just about me. In the past few months I have learned that a dear friend has suffered daily since going through the excitement and blessing of pregnancy and bringing another child into their family. For her it's simply a mystery Cup of Tea, that she walks with daily, but she does it with unshakable faith.
In the past I have also watched a dear friend go from being independent to completely dependent on me and others for everything. He was such a teacher as he did this with a smile and faith in God. He knew that he was going to choose to drink from the Pot Tea we call the Tea of Joy and Love and Life. Even in his last few moments he never unwavered in his faith eventhough his body became his #1 enemy. Many who met him couldn't comprehend that he was a quadriplegic. Therefore their logical thinking had them believing he should have no feeling, mobility, or physical pain. But they were wrong. He suffered with debilitating pain but always had a smile and some Encouragement Tea for whomever he met as there are no strangers, just friends to be made.
I could go on and tell you about a little girl who was born with a lousy Cup of Tea, has had and is about to have even more surgeries. Her family couldn't even realistically keep count let alone us comprehend all that she has and is still going through for a disease so rare that there is very little the doctors can do but keep plugging along drinking in her cup of tea that is a Tea of Hope, Grace, Trust in Christ, and an eager heart to capture everyone she meets for the Kingdom of God.
Instead I would rather us pick up our Tea Cups now and take a moment to ask God to place His holy hands on all of these folks and the many countless others that suffer in silence or with many shattered Tea Cups because the pain is to great and the fear of asking God is too far beyond an imaginary line we draw. Or they simply don't know that God is in everything good and bad before it began in the middle on your worst day or moment and at the end when your Tea Cup will be restored without pain whether that be here or in heaven.
We are not the only ones to have this particular Cup of Tea served to us and yes in many of the biblical references it appears as punishment or God's smite or anger or Lesson Learning Brewed Tea. This may be all the true but the one and most important thing that we need to drink from His word and need to all have Him pour into our Tea Cups is HOPE.
Nrothas and Sistas, each of the biblical characters I will share all had that common cup of tea. They each also shared a faith that God Jehovah-Rapha. (Exodus 15:26 ) The Lord our Healer heard them cry out to Him and He responded. Sistas, I know this is not easy to accept especially if your Cup of Tea is like mine filled with chronic pain, little explanation, and sometimes little understanding from professionals, others, family, spouses, children and even other Brothas and Sistas in Christ. This is not to say that they are necessarily drinking for a non compassionate, bitter or even uncaring Brew of Tea; it's just hard to understand.
We don't live in biblical times where leprosy and other diseases were so visible on the outside. The brew we have is hidden behind what can appear as a healthy body. So Sistas pick up your Tea Cups and allow God to fill your Tea Cup with hope, joy, understanding, compassion, and yes most of all permission to cry out to Him for yourself or for another anytime! I believe that there are several things that Suffering can do for us. To further share the Special Brew of Tea call Christ with everyone we encounter. Remember there are no strangers just people we haven't met.
I Suffering provides us the tools to comfort others in their time of Need- 2 Corinthians 1-3:5
It provides us with a brew of tea called COMPASSION that we need to be pouring into the cups of those who are suffering, friend, foe, stranger all God's children and creation.
People who are suffering desire to have others who too have suffered in some fashion to sit and drink of a Cup of shared compassion flavored tea with them.
People who are in the season of suffering need those who are now on the other side for however long to share with them a Brew called Hope found in desperation.
II. Suffering Produces Intimacy with God Job 42:5- Job who endured unspeakable suffering said " My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you!
Intimacy with God is often in this fallen world borne and poured out over us in and through the furnace of one's affliction.
During these times the Tea that is provided by Jehovah Rapha brings us to a more profound and deeper level of Faith, Hope, Trust and all out surrender to Him.
What a sweet brew of tea that for our hearts.
Brothas and Sistas, we will continue our discussion next week. I look forward to having you join me for another Cup of Christ's Tea.
Love,
Tabby
No Sacrifice Is Too Great
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." Romans 12:1
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Are you among the"Living Dead"? Most dead things deem themselves inoperable, unresponsive, or numb void of a life giving source to fill them with the ability to possess life. Romans 12:1 tells us to we are to "present" (or dedicate, or devote) our bodies to God (Rom. 6:13, 19). This is a figure of speech that gives a 'part' of something to describe the giving of the whole person. The laying down of ones hopes, aspirations, dreams and goals to follow after the destiny that God has set before them; henceforth a dying to self.
In spite of what we may think when we ponder giving our entire being to someone that we cannot visibly see; no matter how unreasonable or irrationable a request it may seem to be, it is indeed a reasonable (rational, fair, sensible) request "because of the mercies of God". This means that the mercies of God is what obligates us to this response. Remember mercy is defined as God not giving to us what we deserve. This is what should motivate us to give our all to Him.
When we are willing to climb up on the altar in dedication of sacrificing our rights to His this is described as a "reasonable service". The word "service" (lateria - from which we get the English word 'latergical') means religious service of worship (John 16:2; Rom. 9:4; Heb. 9:1,6). It is called reasonable" (logicos - from which we get our English word 'logical'), because it is consistent with the fact of Jesus' wonderful sacrifice for us.
A 'living' sacrifice is one that is still useful and operative. It is one that lives a new life and that is freely available to God (Gal. 2:20). In other words God must have all of you. This means you are living to Him and His agenda and dead to your own agenda, henceforth, "The Living Dead".
We are not our own simply because we have been bought with a price. If we take a look at the Old Testament we see that no religious ceremony was complete unless sacrifice was given unto the Lord. The act of sacrificing originated in the mind of God to awaken consciousness of sin and uncleanness. It was also meant to obtain the forgiveness of sin and become righteous before God.
Since Jesus became our sacrifice by becoming the lamb that was slain for the sins of the world we no longer need to present blood or burnt offerings to the Lord. We obtain forgiveness of sin and become righteous before God through Jesus. In the New testament a sacrifice (offering) is olokautwma (holokautoma) which means wholly consumed. The definition of wholly is entirely, totally, altogether; to the full extent. The definition of consumed is to expend or absorb. We now become living sacrifices before the Lord and surrender our being to Him entirely or to the fullest extent. In other words, He is beckoning the old us (the flesh girl) to become expended and the new us (the spiritual woman) to become absorbed with Him.
"So, here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him." Romans 12:1 (The Message Bible)
"What are you afraid of? Let God act. Abandon yourself to Him. You will suffer, but you will suffer with love. You will fight, but you can carry off the victory, and God Himself, after having fought with you, will crown you with His own hand. You will weep, but your tears will be sweet, and God Himself will come with satisfaction to dry them. You will not be free any longer to give yourself up to your tyrannic passions, but you will sacrifice your liberty freely, and you will enter into a new liberty unknown to the world, in which you will do nothing except for love." Francois Fenelon\
Brothas and Sistas, climb up on the altar. "No sacrifice should be too great for Him who gave Himself for us." Harry Ironside. Praise Him!!!!
The Importance of Foreplay in Marital Intimacy Part I
"Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that he has given you under the sun, because that is your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun." Ecclesiastes 9:9
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
One important point we want to make is to make is be sure that you and your spouse learn to have fun while you are involved in foreplay. Some spouses actually say that their sex life is boring especially the foreplay. If there is anything that should be vibrant and full of ecstasy, joy and fulfillment it should be the marriage bed. "Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that he has given you under the sun, because that is your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun." Ecclesiastes 9:9
Jesus died so that we may have life and life more abundantly. (John 10:10) We should be living the zoe life and it should extend to the marriage bed. Zoe is defined as life; the state of one who is possessed of vitality. Intimacy with your spouse should be spontaneous, alive, and fun.
Find ways to be creative. Try something different. There are times when some spouses have fantasies of having their spouses try something new during foreplay and are afraid to live out their fantasies with their God given spouses. If there is no perversion involved that is clearly contrary to biblical teaching then go for it! Many extra marital affairs are started because of the marriage bed loses its' fire and passion or has yet to ignite or keep the fire burning. An affair gets started when one spouse has a desire to maintain spontaneity in the marriage bed and it is not being fulfilled.
Don't be shy and don't hold back when it comes to foreplay. You don't always have to play it safe. Your spouse yearns for you to do those things that only you have been ordained by God to do. "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it." Proverbs 3:27
Preparation for intimacy takes time and creativity. Make sure that your spouse is relaxed mentally and physically. Try a full body massage or a kiss here or there to relax your spouse. Make sure your lingerie and intimate apparel are updated on a regular basis. A fire can just as easily be ignited with a different twist on intimate apparel. Be spontaneous. Don't engage in foreplay the same time, same place, or the same way every time you are intimate with your spouse. Try new forms of foreplay. Find new places within the home to try out new forms of foreplay and yes try new positions (ways) for engaging in foreplay. Find out what you both feel comfortable doing and do it! And remember, "Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled."
Lord willing Van and Regina will continue with this series next week.
Minister Antonio and Sista Michelle Washington
Dear Lord,
We thank you for our wonderful married couples. We pray for a renewed commitment from them to keep the fire burning in their marriage bed. May they find creative and spontaneous ways to enjoy one another intimately. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Moments of Reflection - Sistas, It's A Fixed Fight -The Battle Belongs To God
II Chronicles 20:17 "You will not have to fight this battle, take up your positions, stand still and see the deliverance the Lord will give you."
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There is nothing like a fight that has already been fixed and there is nothing worse than when one opponent already has the ultimate advantage even before the fight has begun. Well, that's how it is with our God, Jehovah Nissi, the Lord God,our banner.
Whenever He is in the ring with our opponent, old Satan, the fight has already been fixed in favor of us and our God. So, there is no need to walk around in fear with a defeated mentality. The word of God tells us to take up our positions. I submit to you that the best position for us to take up is the position of prayer and learning to be still.
The best way to do warfare is for us to remain bowed in His presence, confident that He is more than able to handle our light work! He has something great in mind an the battle has already been won! We are more than conquerors! So, be still and know that He is God! Amen.
Response: Moments of Reflection
There are times when I am struggling to give over to God full power decision making and rule of areas of my life and I know that this most certainly has to be true for you all also. It's a tough place that I stand in speaking this to you. I know that God has only good plans for me. Yet I feel stifled almost like a crouching small animal that knows its prey and wonders is this time that the lies and pure meanness and pulling out of all my old signs stating this is who you are. Not what you continuously rehearse in your mind and soul. You know truths from God I'm the daughter of a king God has plans to prosper me. I'm lovable for who I am; not who anyone other than God can choose to change.
My prayer is that God will continue to strengthen my heart and soul and do the same for each of you. The enemy knows what weapons are most effective against you. So be prepared have Gods definition of who you are filled up in your arsenal and always be prepared but remember no matter how big or small the battle Christ is there with you. The best news is that the final battle has already been won. Christ will return and Satan will be defeated once and for all.
So Brothas and Sistas, I declare today, Satan you are not going to influence the plans that Satan has for me/my Brothas and Sistas. Move out and away. After all my God's arsenal is too much for you. You are a bully and you find people who fear and trust fully in the Lord to be your bully in our lives, marriages, jobs, friendships and more. Get out of my/our way in the name of Jesus. I command you in the name of Jesus, to remove yourself from my/our family (ies), marriage (s), kids, and spouse (s). Also ever so important you have been officially evicted without notice to depart from my mind, body, spirit, tongue, and thoughts. Satan, you are excommunicated right now in the awesome name of Jesus! Your lies have no power over me/us anymore.
Christ, I ask that you come this moment and take up permanent residence in those dirty, hurt, confused, and twisted places that the enemy has diluted for so long and make me and my Brothas and Sistas completely whole and strong in you so that I/we can walk out on the footpath that you have designed for me/us which is to be (a) servant(s) and fulfill that amazing purpose and perfect plan you have set aside for me/us this side of heaven for we know the battle has already been won. Amen.
Love,
Kim
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We are so grateful that you fight all of our battles and you give us victory in each one. Thank you for each fight that comes our way because they allow us to see your glory every time. May we never get exhausted in the battle but help us instead to lean into you knowing that you have already made us victorious. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Keep Flying High!
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Sometimes we just need to put our spiritual reflectors on, buckle down, and wait out the storms in our lives. Scripture says,“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength: they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 Let’s look at this for a minute. In waiting the Lord supernaturally enhances our endurance and strength.
All the power and energy enhancements drinks can’t even touch HIS kind of high potency dose of spiritual supplements (encouragement through His word, comfort from the Holy Spirit, and support from the saints of God) that the He deposits in us. And look He goes on to use the example of the eagle and talks about how eagles use the winds as updrafts coming off hills and mountains which help them to gain altitude and set them up for a long, soaring flight to another location during the storms and high winds. Eagles actually hardly have to flap their wings because they use the winds to their advantage.
And this is how we should be as Christian Brothas and Sistas that are sold out for Jesus. Just as the eagle uses the winds to their advantage and don’t grow weary we should use the storms and trials (those things that makes us grow weary) in our lives to promote us, to bring us to a higher level in Him. He wants to take us to higher heights in Him!!! We can get through it all, every trial, every storm, and every situation because there is a great promotion on the other side, if we trust Him and we FAINT NOT!
Brothas and Sistas, In Spite of All That You Are Going Through Keep Flying High!
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We praise you for yet another Lord's Day. Thank you for new mercies every morning, great is your faithfulness. Please help our wonderful Brothas and Sistas to look to you in times of weariness, stress, or depression. Allow them to know that you are the lifter of their heads and in every trial you are conditioning us to go higher in you. While they are waiting on you renew their strength so that they will not faint. We pray all these things in your precious name, Jesus. Amen.
There is An Appointed Time: Don't Rush the Process
Habakkuk 2:3 (NKJV) "For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry."
New Living Translation Chapter Parallel Habakkuk 2:3 (NLT)" This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled."
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There is an appointed time for everything. The things that we see in the Spirit are postmarked for a specific time. Sometimes we see things and get so excited about them that we begin to go ahead of God. We can frustrate the plans of God when we do this so don't rush the process!
You see if you are anything like me, God will give you are vision and you get so excited that you start trying to put things in place instead of letting Him do the work. Brothas and Sistas, not only can that be tiring, that can be dangerous. We spend tons of money and time trying to make things happen that God never ordained for this season. And we can be guilty of bullying those around us into doing things so that the vision will be fulfilled on our time schedule instead of God's. Sometimes we make them feel like they don't have enough faith to see it through.
Habakkuk 2:3 states,” For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry.”
The definition of appointed means decided on beforehand; designated; preordained’ decreed and predestined. The best posture we can take when it comes to our destiny is to wait on it. We don’t have to do anything because everything has already been decided beforehand by Him.
Sometimes we become jealous when we see others prospering or doing those things that God has called them to do, and we wonder when our season will come. We must realize we are not behind schedule. We may have made some mistakes along the way but God knows our end from our beginning. And He’s got this! Brothas and Sistas, remember there is an appointed time; so don’t rush the process!
Blessings,
Sista Michelle
What's Your Definition of Love
“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.“ Rom.5:8
"God's unfailing love for us is an objective fact affirmed over and over in the Scriptures. It is true whether we believe it or not. Our doubts do not destroy God's love, nor does our faith create it. It originates in the very nature of God, who is love, and it flows to us through our union with His beloved Son." Jerry Bridges
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
What's your definition of true love? Webster's defines it as truly beloved or loving; darling, dear, or main squeeze. Some of us who don't know any better may get it twisted and perceive “Charm City's“ elite playa who whispers sweet nothings to be the definition of true love only to find out his motive was anything but true love.
So let's take a look at what the epitome of true love is. God who is defined as love, loved us so (a term of utter endearment) that He gave his only son so that we might live (have eternal life). John 3:16 The bible says, “Greater love has no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friend.“ John 15:13
Brothas and Sistas, Christ not only exemplifies His great love for us but is the undeniable definition of true love. When all others fail, His love is a love that we can truly count on. There is no greater love.
"Satan is ever seeking to inject that poison into our hearts to distrust God's goodness - especially in connection with his commandments. That is what really lies behind all evil, lusting and disobedience. A discontent with our position and portion, a craving from something which God has wisely held from us. Reject any suggestion that God is unduly severe with you. Resist with the utmost abhorrence anything that causes you to doubt God's love and his lovingkindness toward you. Allow nothing to make you question the Father's love for his child." A.W. Pink
Blessings,
Sista Michelle
In the MIx Part III
“Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.” Philippians 2:2
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
I must admit that when I looked at Part 1& 2 of “Blended Families” I had to giggle to myself, because I was thinking, "Where was Minister Tony and Michelle with all this wisdom when I was making all the wrong decisions early on in my marriage?" (smile).
When my husband and I were married twenty years ago, I came into the marriage with two children; a 3 year old, Nichole and 5 year old, David. I was married previously. However my husband, Van had never been married. He was previously in a relationship with a woman that had 4 children, so I thought all would be fine.
Well, needless to say we were both extremely blindsided. We did have marriage counseling prior to getting married but because we were already living together, our Pastor at that time did not really go deep with marriage counseling; which we both later regretted.
Van and I both came into the marriage with preconceived notions of how things were going to go, but we were not on the same page. If I am going to be totally honest and transparent, which I am, I was the offender of a lot of our issues. Brothas and Sistas, hind sight is 20/20.
A husband and a wife should be on one accord. Well, that’s kind of hard if your spouse (me-Gina) is on the defensive about the children and thinking back I really was horrible. This very behavior made my husband become very insecure when it came to speaking to or disciplining the children. This created a spirit of jealousy.
My mindset at that time was, “He is not their father and if their biological father doesn’t speak to them in that tone then neither should anyone else." (Now I actually never said these words out of my mouth but trust me my actions showed it.) My ex-husband had a different personality. He was a very quiet soft spoken man so that also was one of the things that became a problem; comparing the two. It took me a very long time to settle with the fact that they were two totally different people and they had two very different personalities. Therefore, they were going to respond based on their personalities.
Now, I know you’re probably saying this was really common sense, but it was a little deeper than that because I came into the marriage with unresolved issues from childhood and Vans personality was a trigger so I basically transferred a lot of stuff from the past into our marriage because the personalities were similar. Brothas and Sistas, things from your past unresolved can and will be an issue if you don’t deal with it.
Once Van and I began to communicate, discuss our upbringings, and the pain of the past; healing was able to take place. It took continual prayer, much communication, and patience. As time went on we were blessed with Raijene. Well, the family became more blended (smile) and in time we noticed new issues, jealousy among my older son David and my younger daughter Raijene.
For the life of me we couldn’t figure out why Little David and Raijene could not get along, but it made since when we thought about. Little David didn’t live with us. He lived with my ex-husband and he visited every other weekend. He was used to sharing me with Nichole; then here comes this new child that lived with his mom and he didn’t.
Well we got over that hurdle with lots of love and attention while letting Little David know that he was just as special as any of the other children and He was our only son. Well, that was until Little Van came along but by that time most of the kinks had been worked out.
Brothas and Sistas, Van and I have learned a lot on this journey. Some say that experience is the best Teacher. Our prayer is that our experience will help someone else take an easier path.
We are happy to say that we survived the obstacles and all of the children are on their own except Little Van; who just turned 18. And I’m also blessed to say that the children have such a bond with one another that it brings me to tears when we all get together…"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Rom 8:28
Summary:
· Keep God in the center of your marriage.
· Stay on One Accord.· Deal with unresolved issues - They can and will affect your family.· Godly communication is the Key - Communication with God, your mate and the children. Also Talk about how you were raised, this is important.
· Don’t be afraid of counseling (individual, couple, and family).
· Never ever compare your mate to another (privately or openly).
Remember these two things….“Prayer is a Powerful Weapon” and once the children are all grown up and gone you will be left with just you and your spouse so take time in all the craziness to continually Nurture your Marriage. To God Be The Glory!!!!!
Love,
Van & Gina
Prayer Time
Father, God thank you for blended families please continually cover and strengthen them; allowing them to seek you in the midst of any obstacle they may encounter as a family understanding that “No weapon formed against them shall prosper”. In Jesus Name. Amen
Teatime With Tabby -The Way of Love
1st Corinthians 13The Message (MSG) The Way of Love
"If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. If I speak God’s Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, “Jump,” and it jumps, but I don’t love, I’m nothing. If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love........" cont.
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
I am so excited to be sitting with you and with our Lord and Savior and delving in again to what I believe is the true personification of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. "What is that?" you may ask. Well it's Love. Love can have many meanings and connotations. I believe for myself that it can be a word that is used very loosely and maybe too whimsically. For if you are someone who is reading this and know me personally, you may say that I am one that seeks to find love and goodness in most any situation. I tend to want to love on everyone and try to be as Christ like as a fleshy human can be. Am I always "Ms. I love you and everything about you and never have a bad thought or judgmental thought come across my mind" No sadly enough Sistas, that is not the case.
The Good news here is that God the one who created Love, is Love. Sistas, love doesn't exist outside of Him. He has given us some very clear direction about what real Love is and what it is not. Last week during our "Morning Teatime" we started looking at this quite extensive list that God had Paul put into a letter to the people of Corinth many years ago and it wasn't written for them alone. No God doesn't have anything written in the pages of his "Love Letter" to us (the bible), without it being meant for all generations for the time it was originally written and for all generations to come. So let's take a look at some more of these absolute truths about what love is and how God is love, which is also very important for us to ponder on how God wants these truths to be revealed and demonstrated in our lives.....
Love- doesn’t force itself on others, it isn't always “me first,” It doesn’t fly off the handle ever ......
- This may seem pretty basic and simple at first glance but really what does it mean when it says that Love doesn't force itself on others. Well, I believe our best example for this and the only way that I can relate to what real love is would be to look at Christ's example. He was a King walking amongst mere men. He had all the deity and power and ability as God the Father. Yet Christ never used this deck of all aces to make people accept his eternal authority. Yet instead He made himself a mere mortal that served the poor, cared for the sick, raised the dead, healed the dying and loved on the obsolete/the discarded and forgotten people. Jesus never asked for anything, expected anything or demanded anything from anyone He encountered or shared the truth with. He never said to the people that you will surely rot in hell if you don't right this minute demonstrate your great love, appreciation, and eternal gratitude for what I have come here to do for you, your ancestors, and for every generation yet to come.
Wow Sistas, I sure wish that I had a greater understanding of this kind love when I was raising my children or when I was demanding that my spouse had to love me, good, bad, and ugly because I am his wife, or because I didn't nag about this or that, and "I cooked you dinner after working hard myself all day".. .etc., Yet there is good news even though none of us get all right. Christ's love is shown to us even though I/we foul things up sometimes (okay more than I would like to admit) God still loves us no matter what anyone else says or does or chooses not to do. He is my first love and I (we) are His.
Love- Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others, Love - Doesn’t revel when others grovel-
Another truth about God's love is that He is so gracious that He doesn't keep records of our wrongs. He doesn't take pleasure or joy in knowing that we feel depleted or defeated. Wow, that alone just sends my heart seeking after Him and seeking His Favor and forgiveness, how about you? Let's be real here before our Tea is cold and our hearts are vacant of the truth about the kind of love that Christ wants us to reveal. He desires and directs that we are to love one another, to love strangers, to love those who are hearts are most intimate with even if they may have not loved us back in this same way. If any of you ladies are married or moms, or have siblings or parents ; oh I guess then this applies to all of us in some form or fashion.
If we were to open up our closets within our hearts and reveal the dirty laundry within we would each have to say that we have been guilty of this or that we are likely being guilty of this right now. We too are to keep NO record of how someone hurt us, disappointed us, didn't meet our expectations, or got "what was coming to them." (Side note God doesn't expect or desire us to stay in a relationship where we are not physically or mentally safe. If that is you Sista, please contact us and we will get you resources to help you get to a safe place). We wouldn't be being honest, now would we?
God understands how easy it is for Satan to fill our hearts with these very emotions especially as women. Let's face it we have all blamed Eve in the garden for something we are going through. God made us tenderhearted so that we could love on this world differently than how he gifted men to love on this world, both genders have the same expectations from God, yet when we let Satan lead us to believe that our emotions are truth, not God's Word, that's where we all become our own incarnation of Eve in our own garden.
So Sistas, next time you are feeling hurt, disappointed, offended, done wrong; or you see a situation where another one of God's children is "getting what they deserve" Stop, drop to your knees, and praise the God of love for the fact that He doesn't keep records of our wrongs. He dismisses them as far as the east is from the west. Praise Him and glorify His name that you and I aren't getting what is "coming and well deserved of us, a life of eternal separation from our Creator." As we are sinful and God can't look upon sin He is too pure and Holy. Then take a moment and tell Satan where He can take His emotional battlefield that you will not follow Him or his leadings as this will only lead you/us to hell that is not what Christ desires for us. Be BOLD and tell yourselves and Satan that the only gage that your heart pump aligns with is the only REAL TRUTH and that is the love of Christ. Again this is because love cannot exist outside of God because He is LOVE.
I pray that each of us will wrestle with these truths and if you have emotional baggage to take to dumpster that you will do just that and leave it there. So as to clear the way for Amazing Love, Truth, Grace, Redemption, and SALVATION I pray that you will clean out the closets of your heart this week. Till we sit down for Tea Time together again next week keep your eyes upon the God of Love and know without a doubt that you are Loved always anywhere you are and always have been by the Creator, One and only True Meaning of Love, our Lord and God, Jesus Christ.
Prayers and Grace be with you till we meet........ same time, same place, same Loving God.
Love,
Tabby
Learning to Let Go
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Life's lessons are so hard to learn at times. There are times when I would rather hit the reset button in order to avoid one of God's teachable moments. I do this especially when I know the end result can be painful. And I bet you do to.
One of those lessons just happen to deal with letting go of those whom we love. Brothas and Sistas, I know you must struggle with this too. There are some people that we love and admire so dearly that we are willing to disobey the promptings f the Holy Spirit in order to keep them close to us when He has clearly told us that keeping the relationship is more harmful than letting go.
Brothas and Sistas, we must learn to let go of people not only for our good but for their good as well. Believe it or not holding on is a form of idolatry. Anything or anyone that we cling to over doing God's will we unknowingly put in His place. His will should always be at the core of our Christian walk. It so easy to place people on the throne and develop unhealthy codependent alliances of which we can find ourselves compromising the very convictions that we are supposed to hold high.
Here is the question I pose to you.... How much of God's will are you willing to compromise at the expense of receiving His best because you are holding on to a relationship that He has clearly told you to let go of? Brothas and Sistas, learn to let go. Letting go not only brings you new found freedom but it frees the one that you are trying to hold on to. Amen.
Blessings,
Denise
Prayer of Faith
Thank you Lord for teaching us life's lessons. Help us to let go when we try so desperately to hold on to those you have told us to let go of. May we trust you more than we trust our emotions. We desire to have you and not people on the throne. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Fanning the Flames
"The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?" Proverbs 18:14
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
All around us people are hurting. To us their wounds appear to be invisible but for the one who has been wounded their wounds seem unbearable. People tend to mask their pain. There is a big difference between having a physical wound and having a spiritual or emotional wound. Spiritual and emotional wounds lie much deeper than physical/surface wounds.
Brothas and Sistas, this is where we make a difference in the lives of those who need a word to spur them on to fight the good fight of faith. I don't care how spiritual we may appear to be we all need to hear a word to get us through some things. Sometimes we can offer a simple prayer or even go as far as giving them a shoulder to cry on. It never ceases to amaze me the more we avail ourselves to lift someone out of the miry place we become lifted up.
JGW said, "I'll lift you and you lift me, and we'll both ascend together." That is a powerful concept. Encouragement/exhortation can actually be used as arsenal against the enemy's taunts to bring us down by allowing us to bring one another up by His Spirit. It reciprocates.
The definition of exhortation is to incite. Incite means to up, to encourage, fan the flames of, fuel, ignite, stimulate, provoke, excite, arouse, awaken, inspire, spark off. I believe that when we spend time with Jesus He not only gives us the ability to incite others but He gives us spiritual insight into the lives of those He divinely connects us with to fuel, ignite or awaken to the reality of the great Hope that lies within.
Who will you fan the flames of today for the Master? "Encouragement is awesome. It (can) actually change the course of another person's day, week, or life." Chuck Swindoll Amen.
Dear Lord,
Thank you for those you send our way daily to encourage us. Help us to realize the importance of encouraging others. You have given us the gift of encouragement to help lift those who are weary out of the horrible pit that life sometimes places us in. May we realize that we are never alone when we go through rough times. Give us spiritual insight for those around us that are hurting so that the enemy will not overtake them. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
The Faithfulness of the Lord
"Because of the LORD'S great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fall. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness, I say to myself, The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him." Lam. 3:23 -24
"From the tiny birds of the air and from the fragile lilies of the field, we learn the same truth...God takes care of His own.... At just the right moment, He steps in and proves Himself as our faithful heavenly Father." Charles (Chuck) Swindoll
The LORD is faithful to all His promises & loving toward all He has made. The LORD upholds all those who fall & lifts up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you and you gave them their food at the proper time. You open your hand & satisfy the desires of every living thing. (Psalm 145:13B -16)
Greetings in the name of our Lord, Sistas,
Our God keeps all of His promises. He does just what He says He will do. He will never leave us and that's a promise. God will never go back on His word because He cannot lie. "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" Numbers 23:19
Lam 3:22 - 25 B says, "Because of the LORD'S great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fall. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness, I say to myself, The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him."
When circumstances seem impossible, when all signs of grace in you seem at their lowest ebb, when temptation is fiercest, when love and joy and hope seem well-nigh extinguished in your heart, then rest, without feeling and without emotion, in the Father's faithfulness." D. Tryon
Yes, Sistas we serve a great, faithful, compassionate God who will never fail. 'Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee;. Thou changest not, thy compassions they fail not; As Thou hast been thou forever wilt be."
Faithfulness is defined as loyal or devoted. He never leaves us in our darkest hour. He keeps picking us up when we fall. Like clockwork He feeds us daily. Sistas, even our desires are satisfied. He is so righteous in all His ways and so very, very loving toward all of us. He hears our cry and He will save us. He's so near watching over us.
"Often times God demonstrates His faithfulness in adversity by providing for us what we need to survive. He does not change our painful circumstances. He sustains us through them." Charles Stanley
Sistas, let us live a true and pleasing life in all that we do recognizing His faithfulness to us, let's in turn be faithful to Him. Be blessed.
Blessings,
Renee
Our Daily Bread/Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank you for your faithfulness. Please help us to be faithful to you in all that we do. Thank you for consistently providing for us and protecting us. We praise you for being so compassionate towards us. We pray all these things in your gracious name, Jesus. Amen.
A Brew of the Long Unwanted Journey Part 5 A Brew of Reflection
Tea Time with Tabby
A Brew of the Long Unwanted Journey Part 5 A Brew of Reflection
Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Deuteronomy 25:18 New International Version (NIV)
18 When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and attacked all who were lagging behind; they had no fear of God.
Hebrews 11 New International Version (NIV) Faith in Action
11 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for.
3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.
1 Corinthians 13:12 New International Version (NIV)
12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror;(A) then we shall see face to face.(B) Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.(C)
Matthew 7:13 New International Version (NIV)
The Narrow and Wide Gates
13 “Enter through the narrow gate.(A) For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I pray that you find yourself this morning seeking the Lord and His Purposes for your life. As I reflect over the past 6 months God has continually brought me back to a simple quote that I have on my computer. I love quotes and this one for some reason has really stuck. "What you are willing to walk away from will determine what God can bring you too. Now that may sound like it doesn't go with reflection but it does if you have chosen to walk away from something, and reflect back. Let's head over to the Grand Brew Master's Table and hear from Him. Lord as we move to your table may our hearts, minds be prepared to receive your words. May Lord the words that are typed here be not be my earthly thoughts or wisdom but rather your Truth. Lord you tell us in your word that the narrow road and gate lead to you. May we all choose this path to see what it is that you intend to bring us too.
Brother's and Sister's my greatest internal struggle throughout this entire "Most Unwanted Brew" has been will my prodigal son return to the Lord after this life altering tragedy. How could he not as I sat at his beside praying and pleading for not only his life but for him to return to the Truth of Christ in his life. I wish I could tell you that now that he is back on his feet and 90% recovered that he would have shared at least a little reflection of the truth that he once loved and cherished. This however, isn't the case. He will accept that there is "higher power" but that there are too many religions and faiths out there in the world to subscribe to just one. He states that in his mind is to say that a loving God doesn't want and doesn't seek the hearts of those that don't follow the "Christian belief system." seems unloving to him. He is quick to reflect back on abuses and abusers of our Faith throughout time, no matter the argument that all faiths and religions have had and will continue to have those who use the name of God in ways His name should never be used or abused.
As I have spent time reflecting on this and trying to process how Zac just can't simply accept the Truth that it was God that gave him his life back that dreadful morning of August 27th, 2017. As I have struggled to not be overbearing or overly pushy about giving thanks to God, and how can you not see that God saved hi,. God chose to rescue him for the 2nd time in his life. It has been challenging to not shout at him deserves all the Credit for your life and healing. Well as I wrestle with this delicate balance of respect for him as an adult, and being his mom. God has repeatedly had me reflecting on my own journey. He has had me reflecting on my Journey has Zac's Mom, and the truth that this must be something Zac comes too on his own. As this is truth des reside within him.
God sat me down these past few weeks and reminded me that my reflection need only be on what is in my heart, mind, and spirit, that I have my own reflecting to do about my walk of faith. I heard God's spirit speak to me asking me what am I will letting go of to see where and what God can bring me to. He reminded me that it's no longer my job or my responsibility to tell Zac that God is God, and that without Him we will always be lost.
God has been showing me that the more I push or suggest or even ask probing life meaning questions I am pushing him further from the truth. God has asked me do you love him enough to let go of him, to trust that God knows when and what is best for him to include bringing him back into the family of God. Wow what a big question, what a big ask I nearly replied. God has allowed and continues to allow these requests to rest on my spirit. As I reflect on this I have learned that it was ridiculously easier for me to answer yes to these reflective questions for Zac's physical healing over his need for Christ in his daily life. It was easier to rely on God for strength, and provision for my own self during this Brew than it is to reflect on the matters of my own heart that need cleaning up.
Brother's and Sister's do you have anything that you are holding too tightly too, or pushing onward too, or allowing the from the past to pull back towards? We all have something, but we all need to reflect and recognize that God won't force us to move from where we are. He pours out His Loving Brew of Truth's and Love for us daily and ask us to pick up our cross and follow. Yet Brothers and Sisters He is gentle, patient, kind, understanding, and unmovable. Our Lord will wait for us to choose to reflect on our lives, and Blessings, struggles, pain, suffering, joy, hope, and that's in between. He will wait with a hand stretched and the other signaling to father and all the heavenly host, one that was lost has now been found. He knows the plans He has for us, and He is patient.
Brothers and Sisters what He has poured into me this week is that my reflection needs to be focused on my efforts, practices, and sacrifices to be less about me and more about Reflecting Him in my own life. God has reminded me that I can't save anyone, I can share the gospel of truth best by walking out a life that Reflects Christ. That I can continue to allow God to bring me further into the fold of His sacrificial love for me, and trust that He has the rest. God has reminded me that He is God and I am not! That the road to redemption is different for all of us, and that the gateway and the road may seem narrow the truth is that He will be there with me every step of the way. The second truth is that where He is leading me has already been, and will be there with me when I arrive. The third truth is that my past doesn't define my future. God knows my past, and has chosen to pour out his blood and wash it white and clean once again. Lastly, that what I am willing to let go of and simply walk out this life of faith He has granted me will determine what it is that He can bring me to.
What I have learned this week through these introspective reflective times is that I sometimes, I try to put God in a box and wrap Him up the way I see Him and know Him, then try to insist that this is how God intends to be gifted and accepted by others. This is not true, our God is too big and to Vast to every be put in box and shared as a one way only way to be received God. He and only He knows how to reach every heart and every soul for eternity. That is one of the most beautiful Truths about Him. Some of us find faith will come more easily yet others will struggle and wrestle with the Truth before their own time of reflection reveals the truth. What He is teaching me is that it's more important to focus on the relationship with the person. This will allow them to see God for who he is through me. By my allowing them to see God' reflection and love through doing life together God will create opportunities for me to share, if that is His Plan. God will create opportunities for conversation, and action in Faith if we are patient and wait on His timing.
Challenge: Take a look at your life, and ask God what should you be reflecting on and allow Him to lead you to and from? Are you ready to go on this journey of Reflection with me? I certainly hope so, God is so Good all time, and all the time God is good. God doesn't belong in gift box all wrapped up the same for every lost soul. Allow God to do the gift wrapping and you be there to love, support, encourage, celebrate, most importantly pray for all.
Till next week,
Love Tabby
Be Careful of What You Hear
"I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ for a different gospel which is really not another only some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel of heaven should preach to you another gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed. As we have said before so I say again now if any man is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed." Galatians 1:6-9
"God gives enough proof that faith is reasonable, but not so much that reason alone sustains faith." "Christianity is either everything for mankind, or nothing. It is either the highest certainty or the greatest delusion. ... But if Christianity be everything for mankind, it is important for every man to be able to give a good reason for the hope that is in him in regard to the eternal verities of the Christian faith. To accept these verities in an unthinking way, or to receive them simply on authority, is not enough for an intelligent and stable faith."
F.R. Beattie
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
I am sometimes amazed about what we hear concerning the gospel from others and how it can change our belief system and what we have been previously taught about our faith in regards to Christianity. I am reminded of a conversation that I had with my son the other day, as he asked me some questions about the bible and what we believe. He made it known that he was asking these questions based on the same questions that a couple of people asked him concerning his beliefs.
Brothas and Sistas, as I listened to the questions that he was asking and I answered them one by one, I realized that something was not right about his line of questioning. So I stopped him and said, " The questions you are asking makes it seem as though these people don't want to accept Jesus or believe in Him as their Lord and Savior." And I began to explain to him what the Lord was speaking to me, which was to read Galatians 1:6-9.
I continued to share with him that some people will always have a question after you have answered the first question in an effort to bring about doubt and confusion in your mind for that which you believe in an attempt to convert you to another gospel. So quite naturally I told him to be careful about what he may hear so that his beliefs would not change. These people were indeed trying to control his thoughts with their contradictions so that he would change what he originally believed.
"We cannot pander to a man's intellectual arrogance, but we must cater to his intellectual integrity." John Stott
Brothas and Sistas, there will be people of whom you will share the gospel with that will challenge your faith by asking you questions that bring about doubt. They will ask you one question after another just to wear you down and eventually get you to change your beliefs. Beware as to what you hear and stay in tune with the Spirit of God to discern what is going on. "If I believe it, isn't that enough? First Peter 3:15 says, "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."
When non-Christians ask tough questions about the Christian faith, will you be able to give a solid and logical response? If not, there is an opportunity lost to spread God's Word. Worse, the Christian who has a weak foundation for his faith can be easily shaken by the doubts of non-believers." Defending Your Faith
Dear Lord
,
We thank you for leaving us with the awesome privilege of spreading the gospel to those that we come in contact with. Help us to stand strong for our faith and what we believe. Help us to never be double minded in our convictions. We pray for daily opportunities to spread the gospel. We ask all these things in your precious name, Jesus. Amen.
Is Your Tongue Used For Healing or Hurting?
"With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men who have been made in God's likeness." James 3:9
"Your words and the manner in which you speak are critical to harmonious relationships. As you learn to speak the truth in love, you must also determine when to speak, how to speak in an edifying manner, and to whom you should speak. The power of your words is enormous, and they also show the condition of your heart. Even your idle words will be accounted for in the day of judgment." John C. Broger
Good Morning Brothas and Sistas,
I've been reading the book of James for about a month now. Sometimes it's good to be reminded of things you may already know, but sometimes forget. This is also how we get the word of God in our hearts; by continuing to read and study it.
My question today is.... Are we using our tongue for healing and helping or is it being used to hurt and kill others with deadly words? James 3:9 says, "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men who have been made in God's likeness." James went on to say that, "out of our mouth come praise and cursing".
Christian Brothas and Sistas, these things should not be. I don't know about you, but I've been there many times but I can truly thank God for changing me over the years. I have gotten better. I'm more quick to listen now than I used to be. That's what looking into Gods perfect law will do. When you continue to read it, it will change your way of thinking and talking.
I'm so glad about that. I no longer walk away from the word and forget who I am and whose I am. Jesus is continuing to bring about change in my life.
Food for thought: How about you? Is your tongue being used to bring glory to God or to hurt others?
"God has given us two ears, but one tongue, to show that we should be swift to hear, but slow to speak. God has set a double fence before the tongue, the teeth and the lips, to teach us to be wary that we offend not with our tongue." Thomas Watson
Much Love,
Renee
Our Daily Bread/Prayer Time
"With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men who have been made in God's likeness." James 3:9
Dear Lord,
We thank you for convicting us of our speech daily. You are such an amazing God and we praise your great name. Help us to guard our hearts and our tongues. May we use our tongues to build up instead of tear down. May we be always willing to use our tongue as instruments to bring healing to those around us. For it is in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Are You Due for A Software Upgrade?
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There are times when we need to tweek some things in our lives so that we can become a better version of who we are, And then there are times when we need a complete overhaul. For the past two days I have been getting notifications on my new phone about a system upgrade, Normally my phone just states that there will be an aupdate performed at a particular time on my phone.
I began to think, "Well what the heck is the difference between a system update and a system upgrade?" A system update allows the system to get the kinks out. A system upgrade involves putting a whole new system in place. That means the previous system is old or obsolete so there is no need in trying to improve it. You see a software upgrade supercedes the original make up of the product. There may be an interface overhaul involving a revamping of the whole system to improve the userability.
Brothas and Sistas, that's how it is with our thinking. Many times our old way of thinking resembles the thought life of the old or obsolete thinking. We are operating in the old man/woman mentality which is where we were before Christ. Jesus said that in 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." God does a revamping of our thiinking through constant study of His word so that our usability in the world improves, He cannot use us if our thinking is obsolete or outdated.
Brothas and Sistas, are you due for a system upgrade?
"Until as a Christian, you use God’s Word to change your mind, nothing is going to work for you." Justice Kojo Bentil
Blessing,
Sistas Michelle
3 Crosses and Two Choices
"Father forgive them for they know not what they do." Luke 23:34
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Some of us have the penalty of sin resting on us while others, by grace, have shifted it over to Christ. On the hill of Calvary there were three crosses and 3 men, one died in sin, another died to sin, and the third died for sin. These two men had the opportunity, they heard and saw some things, yet one died and went to heaven, while the other died and went to hell.
Brothas and Sistas, the first cross we have shows "Rejection" - He was a man who despised the presence of Jesus Christ. He heard the prayer, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do." Luke 23:34 He heard it and yet still despised the presence of Christ to the point of having hardness even in death. Question: Brothas and Sistas, have the trials God has allowed to cross your path caused you to despise Christ? He not only despised Christ, he despised the person of Christ. He was no different than those who bypassed the cross and taunted Jesus. Can you imagine, here is a man on the brink of eternity, on the tip of hell, mocking the Savior's person, showing enormous hardness of heart? Finally, he despised the power of Christ saying in effect, "If you are really the "Anointed One" demonstrate your power."
The third cross we see is "Reception" - This man believed on Christ's name in faith, so Jesus saved him. At first he insulted the Lord, Jesus Christ, but then he began to look at the Savior, he looked at the face of the Son of God, that face so marred. He saw holiness and peace there; he saw deity stamped on that noble brow of His; he saw the crown of thorns, the spiky emblem of the curse. He even read the title that Romans nailed to the cross, perhaps igniting the remembrance of the teaching in his youthful days, the words of the Prophet Isaiah 53:5 - "But He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities. The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed."
He began to listen to the Savior and His mockers. You see the second thief listened as Jesus forgave His enemies and it seems he heard the gospel from Jesus's mockers (34-39). He believed the innocence of Jesus. He believed the ability of Jesus and the royalty of Jesus.
Listen this man was not sitting in a comfortable seat like you and listening to God's plan of salvation or surrounded by Christians. He didn't even have a single page of the New Testament to read. He was racked with fearful pain, yet, he believed because he looked at and listened to Jesus in faith.
Finally, the center cross we see "Redemption" - We have one man die in sin , one man died to sin, but praise God this man by the name of Jesus died for sin, purchasing our freedom, becoming our redemption. He is the basis of our redemption through His blood. Ephesians 1:7 says, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace."
Brothas and Sistas, only the precious blood of Christ could purchase us out of the slave market of sin and the blessing of that redemption is the forgiveness of sins. Are your sins forgiven and blotted out by Jesus according to Isaiah 43:25 which states, " I even I, am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake and I will remember your sins no more."
Brothas and Sistas, The 2 choices - The First cross - "Rejection" over the Second cross, which is the center cross - "Redemption", which have you chosen?
"A dying man asked a dying man for eternal life; a man without possessions asked a poor man for a Kingdom; a thief at the door of death asked to die like a thief and steal Paradise. One would have thought a saint would have been the first soul purchased over the counter of Calvary by the red coins of Redemption, but in the Divine plan it was a thief who was the escort of the King of kings into Paradise. If Our Lord had come merely as a teacher, the thief would never have asked for forgiveness. But since the thief's request touched the reason of His coming to earth, namely, to save souls, the thief heard the immediate answer:
'I promise thee, this day thou shalt be With Me in Paradise' (Luke 23:43)
It was the thief's last prayer, perhaps even his first. He knocked once, sought once, asked once, dared everything, and found everything. When even the disciples were doubting and only one was present at the Cross, the thief owned and acknowledged Him as Saviour." Fulton Price. Will You?
Minister Antonio Washington
In The Mix Part II
Slow Jam
"Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." - Ecclesiastes 4:12
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
This week we want to discuss strategies for dealing with spousal insecurities.
First let's start with praying with your spouse daily. Prayer creates an atmosphere of intimacy and transparency. The enemy often gets busy when he sees an opening. If you both purpose in your hearts to not allow anything or anyone to come in between your union, prayer is the glue that seals your union.
Secondly, reassure your spouse that you don't have interest in your ex spouse/ your children's parent. When you have phone conversations with your ex spouse talk to your current spouse about them. You can also have these conversations in the presence of your current spouse either in person if he/she feels comfortable or over the phone.
Thirdly, you can also encourage your current spouse to be involved with your children. Allow them to spend time with your children doing things that your children like to do. Allow them to take your children to sporting events, athletic practices, social outings, after school events, etc., They can also take your children out on dates.
Fourthly, involve your current spouse in the decision making process when it comes to your children. Allow them to feel as though their input is important/vital. They play an important role in your child's/children's live(s) now that you have become one.
Fifthly, by all means make sure that your former spouse and/or your children are not allowed to disrespect your current spouse. Teach your children the power of respecting your spouse. When they respect your spouse they are respecting you or vise versa because you are one. The same holds true if they disrespect your spouse; they are indeed disrespecting YOU. It is important for them to know that your spouse IS NOT the reason why you are no longer with their mom or dad. Your former spouse should never feel as though they can openly disrespect your spouse or teach your children to disrespect your spouse. Teamwork between you and both spouses (former and current) creates an atmosphere of security, balance, trust, and mutual respect for you, your spouse, your children and ultimately your blended family to thrive.
Next week we will hear from Van and Regina Murchison in regard to blended families.
Have a wonderful day.
Minister Antonio and Michelle Washington
Dear Lord,
We thank you for bringing our blended families together. Help them to obtain oneness in their households as well as in their marriages. May their children respect their spouses. Bring unity between their current and former spouses so that your name may be glorified. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Tea Time with Tabby
A Brew of the Long Unwanted Journey Part 4 The Sweetener Found at the Bottom of the Cup
Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version (NIV)
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Deuteronomy 25:18 New International Version (NIV)
"When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and attacked all who were lagging behind; they had no fear of God."
Hebrews 11 New International Version (NIV) Faith in Action
"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.
By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible."
2 Samuel 7:18 New International Version (NIV)
David’s Prayer
"Then King David went in and sat before the LORD, and he said: “Who am I, Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?"
Psalm 32:6 New International Version (NIV)
"Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them."
Psalm 143:1 New International Version (NIV)
A psalm of David.
:LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief."
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters, I pray that you are aware that there are so many that pray for you so many that you may never know, may never understand their story but know this they pray for you. May I take a moment and share in this privilege before we head over to the Grand Brew Masters Table for our Brew today.
Father, I pray for each of my Brothers and Sisters whose eyes or ears may come to read these words. I pray that they are pleasing to you first and foremost. I pray that whatever their circumstance or situation that they sense your great hand of love and protection. Lord I pray for their salvation and that of their families for not only this generation but for all those that have past and for all those to come. Lord I pray that they will always in your time and leading find what I have found to be true every time there has been Joy, Trial, heartache and everything in between, and that is the sweetness of these prayers. My we come to understand that even though many of the spoonful’s of sweetener may not have been added by us, many we may never know the author of, but they are there for us never the less. They are there for us to look upon for strength, gratitude, hope, praise, and thanksgiving. May everyone who comes to read this Brew experience this great gift of yours, and seek it out, and hold out hope for it and teach it to those they share their faith with in these days till your return. Amen
Brothers and Sisters, lets pick up where we left off, we had been reflecting on how God was not only working on healing Zac from his devastating injuries, and setbacks and infections, and fevers, anxiety, and so much more. God was working through so many others on our behalf to strengthen us to grow us, and most certainly to sustain us. God does this in many ways but on this side of heaven the way that He most often pours or spoons it out to us is through the prayers of others.
Throughout this process, Zac spent 83 days in the hospital, he underwent 10 major surgeries, had countless fevers, and infections that required the best minds to discover the root cause, and treatment to overcome. He suffered with Thrush many times because of the shear strength of the antibiotics required to fight the infections. He had to undergo daily care that was often 2 times a day where they had clean and scrub, and debris his wounds that that were covering 47% of his body each lasting anywhere 1-4hrs at a time. Often having to determine how much he could push through and save the pain medication for worst of it. He was literally confined to bed unable to roll, or move, or sit up, or move his extremities. He was essentially trapped once again, this time not on literal fire in a burning car, but in the effects and results of that tragic night.
I am not sure how many of you are parents but I don’t believe you need to be a parent per say to understand just how difficult it is to see someone you love in such a place, and know that there is nothing you can do, well not nothing. Yet the enemy of our souls surely can weigh you down with that lie, and I won’t deny it here I believed it. I drank it in and was angry and wasn’t able to find the words to ask God for help or hope. I knew deep within me that God was working but I couldn’t see it in the day to day. I couldn’t recognize at least not in the most challenging moments when I just needed to take the pain from him if only for a few minutes. Yet our God is so faithful, patient and generous with His Love for us.
You see Brothers and Sisters Zac made me promise him I wouldn’t cry, I wouldn’t let my emotional needs to fix this overtake his emotional and physical needs for me to be his advocate, his strength, his hope for endurance. How did God reveal the sweetener at the bottom of my cup to me in these most challenging times? Every Single Time I got to where I simply didn’t have an ounce of strength to hold back the tears, or encourage, or advocate once again for the same things as I had 30 minutes ago, I would get a word of encouragement. I would receive a text, a call, a nurse would come in and they would have been able to persuade the doctors to change the orders. Zac would suddenly fall into a comfortable sleep. I can’t explain outside of God’s Mercy and Love for me and for you, that He absolutely provided this for me EVERYTIME! He demonstrated through Zac amazing resilience to endure more than I know without a doubt that I ever could.
Then there were the friends and prayers of my Brothers and Sisters in Christ that I do life with on a regular basis. They would tell me that they saw me as having such strength, fierce momma love as my mom friends called it, endurance. They saw things in me that I surely didn’t see. They saw God pouring out of me when I felt that He was often so far away from my circumstance as the enemy kept a vigilant battle pursuing in my mind and heart. God was allowing others to see Himself through me many who were not believers or those who had lost their way with Him. My mom often said that I needed to remember who I always said my God was and all that I said He could and would do. My sister in law called me wonder woman and asked where I found my strength and energy to accomplish all I had to each day. Often, she asked where I found the energy to keep going, and care for everyone in my life while spending so much time with Zac. Friends commented on how they appreciated me asking about their lives and caring for them. When I would reflect on these moments there was only one conclusion that could be drawn.
The only conclusion that I could be drawn was that I knew I was not superhuman by any measure. That the only answer was the Cross. That God was my strength any revelation of hope that was being seen within me. He was the source of my so called super powers, my resilience, my grace, my compassion and everything else. Then there was the strongest conviction of my life that followed the truth above. This was that through this Brew too often I had not been the one far too often storming the gates of heaven; for as I was far too often allowing the enemy of my soul to deceive me in believing that God had abandoned me, and Zac in this tragedy. This meant that God’s people those I knew and many I didn’t were storming the gates of heaven on my behalf, and that of Zac’s. When I realized this that I had such a breakthrough time with God, where I repented, praised, thanked, and rejoiced in the sweetener found at the bottom of my tea cup, and at the end of myself. It was here that I found the strength to begin to pray for every family I saw in the burn unit, to attempt to reach out and encourage new families. To take the time to ask about the families and lives of those who were sustaining and putting Zac’s back together through the skills, talents, and compassions that God had placed in their lives.
Brothers and Sisters in this most tragic brew, in this most bitter of seasons, I found some of the most amazing sweetener in the bottom of my cup. I have found that if we choose to ask the Lord daily to add this at the beginning of our Daily Brew we will be amazed and blessed. We will experience such a change in our perspectives even when we are in the midst of the Bitterest Brews and Seasons of our Lives.
I pray that my vulnerability in sharing in this journey helps you to see how Great and Faithful our God is Always!! May we always be faithful about praying for one another, and listening for God’s leadings to send a word of encouragement and hope to another.
Till next week, rest in Him who has you in Hands and Care Always, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.
Love,
Tabby
Allow Him To Open Your Eyes So That You May See
"Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water." Genesis 21:19
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Brothas and Sistas, it's amazing that even in the midst of our desolate, weary, worn and parched places God will allow us to not only see but partake in the water that only He can provide. Sometimes trials make it difficult to look past our pain and take hold of or visualize the blessings that He has right in front of us once we get past our pain. Brothas and Sistas, it was only when God opened Hagar eyes to what was already right before her did she see things differently than when she first perceived her circumstance. I love the fact that once He opened her eyes she saw water.
Water often represents a time of refreshment. Without water we could not live. When we are refreshed we often see things in a different light. When we are refreshed we think more clearly, we become more alert, more concentrated and more focused. The water He provides helps us to focus more on what He is trying to show us spiritually rather than what we see with our physical eyes. He desires to keep our reservoirs full of hope beyond hope regardless of what we are going through.
His water will not only sustain our physical lives but our emotional and spiritual lives as well. Therefore He will always provide water for us to draw upon in time of need. Don't allow what your going through to hinder your sight. Allow Him to open your eyes so that you may indeed see and experience profound refreshment.
"If your soul is parched and you need the healing power and satisfaction of living water, renew your commitment to draw closer to your Creator. Take time and be still and allow Christ's peace and presence to refresh your dried places. Enjoy the peace and satisfaction that only God's love can bring. " G C M Amen.
Dear Lord,
We thank you for giving us spiritual eyes so that we may see your miracles all around. May we have a greater commitment to draw closer to you so that our spiritual sight may become stronger. Thank you for supplying us with the water that quenches our every \thirst. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Forgive Quickly Part II
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
The more we hold on to unforgivejess it spills over into other areas and relationships in our lives. A couple of weeks ago I was quite irritable with my family. I was mean in my delivery every time I said something. I did some soul searching and began to pray. As I was praying the Lord brought up an offense between a family member and someone very close to the family.
Colossians 3:15
The interaction between the two of them and the accusation that evolved from it hurt me to my core. I did not realize how much it affected me till I realized I was taking my resentment out on everyone else for weeks and I began to complain about the ones I loved. Out of nowhere, I heard the Lord say, “You have got to learn to “forgive quickly. You hold onto offenses too long. You become bothered in your spirit and you can't even stand to be around the person. " Brothas and Sistas, that was a wake up call for me.
Colossians 3:15 says, "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." Peace is defined as freedom from disturbance; tranquility. The opposite of peace is irritation. The defintion of itrrtation is a thing that is continually annoying or distracting. The defintion for irritant is the same exact defitinon. You see none of us want to deal with any kind of irritant whether is be a person, place or thing.
I kept thinking that if the person who was causing me and my family the most pain; the irritant; would be removed then my peace would come back. But you know what I learned through this trial is that God wants us to operate in peace even when those things that would are sent to steal our peace are present in our lives. That's when we know we are growing spiritually when we can have peace in the midst of distractions and people around us who are annoying the love of Jesus out of us.
Once I repented of my unforgiveness, I had so much peace in my spirit. Irritation left me and I began to be thankful for the people the Lord placed in my life; even the person who had become a constant irritant to my spirit. Brothas and Sistas, when we are at peace with people around us, we tend to be more grateful for the people around us.
Brothas and Sistas, FORGIVE QUICKLY,
"To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you." Lewis B. Smedes
Love,
Sista Michelle
Prayer of Faith
Dear Lord,
The pain that we feel from offences is real. We certainly don't want to minimize it. But we must remember that you suffered the same offences and YOU FORGAVE QUICKLY. Help us to do the same so that we may be free from any irritants that would keep us from being our best for you and others. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Love Anyhow!
http://youtu.be/lQm3UFFO-lA?list=PL78CB58B0F91959EA
"Most importantly (Above all), love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." Peter 4:8
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
God is Love so therefore Love is God in action. All that is life is God’s personality manifested in the visible realm. We are because He spoke us into being. That is a mind-boggling thought. He desired for us and the universe to be and here we are. And not only did He speak us into existence He also provided every means of support that we will ever need. That’s Love.
Love always seeks the greater good of the other person. It’s not selfish or greedy. It takes into account the needs of others and seeks to meet those needs. I think John 3:16 is a perfect illustrates of the embodiment of love, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life”(John 3:16, NIV).
Let’s just meditate on that for a moment. Specifically on the point that, “He gave his one and only Son,” that’s incredible. And that’s love. Unlike God whose is always thoughtful, our version of love may be filled with thoughts and actions that are self-serving. And this is why most relationships fail.
Brothas and Sistas, how many times have you said to someone “I love you?” Did you really mean it or were you just saying it because you thought the other person wanted to hear it? How many times has someone told you these precious words? Let me guess; probably more times than you can count.
Saying these words is easy, but meaning them is a challenge. I have come to realize that not everyone that says “I love you,” means it. More often than not; these words are just like candy being handed out to an unsuspecting child that is being lured away. We have used the premise of “I Love You”, to get what we want from people, all the while knowing that we really didn’t mean it, because if we really did love them, we wouldn’t take advantage of them.
Genuine love would compel us to think of the well-being and care of others, not ourselves. Our friends who say they love us, will speak the truth in love and be there continually.
Love is not a tool to be used for selfish ambitions, It is a beautiful state of giving. To love is to give. “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,” (John 3:16 NIV). Not only has God (Love) provided every physical need that we can see and touch, but He has also provided for every spiritual need that we cannot see. By the Holy Spirit we receive God (Love) in our hearts. That’s precious. And I can attest to the accuracy of that scripture. I remember before I was born-again how I longed to be able to truly love. I couldn’t manifest it no matter how hard I tried. It felt like I was disconnected from being able to care enough for other people. But as soon as the Holy Spirit entered me I instantly became a loving, affectionate person. My family didn’t know what to make of me. I was all over them with hugs and kisses, which is something we never did. I couldn’t help myself my new nature now is to love and to show it.
Considering that love is not an emotion but an action; to say the words “I love you,” when we have no corresponding actions to back them up makes our profession of love questionable. 1 Corinthians 13:4 (NIV) states, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”
Brothas and Sistas, are we always patient? Are we always kind? Are we envious? Do we boast? Are we proud? I’m guilty, I have been all of these things. In fact I know it’s sometimes easier to be impatient, unkind, boastful and proud especially with those we claim to love. For some reason we seem to treat those close to us the worst. But why?
Acting this way will never promote love; it will only promote division and an atmosphere of contempt, and yet we allow these character flaws to permeate our relationships and destroy them. We only attempt to change after the damage is done, but that may be too late to salvage the relationship and our reputation. In 2015 we must learn to love others in spite of those things that they do and don't do. After all. Isn't that what Jesus does? ..................................................
Love Anyhow!
by A. Lin Thomas
When you love someone well and they can't love you back, Love Anyhow!
When you need encouragement from your family or friends and it's not given, Love Anyhow!
When you take care of a sick loved one and they say you're not doing enough, Love Anyhow!
When you give your last penny to help and are left with nothing, Love Anyhow!
And when you feel like you just want to push all of those people away, Love Anyhow!
Don't let anyone steal the joy of love from you! Love Anyhow!
Love Anyhow! Love Anyhow!
Jesus Does!
"To love and be loved is the greatest good of humanity, we should never misuse something so sacred and treat it like nothing." Audrey Thomas - Sistas Saving Sistas For Christ
Dear Lord,
Thank you for showing your great love towards us by giving of yourself on the cross for us. Teach us to love the way you love so that we may we follow your example of showing that same love towards others. May we never take one another for granted. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
In the Mix Blended Families
http://youtu.be/ooAi3KJ5I-s?list=PLF56D720A2A6A473F
http://youtu.be/kE0pwJ5PMDg Old Skool
"Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with [them] according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered." I Peter 3:7
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Let's continue with our series entitled, "In The Mix - Blended Families". One issue that is common among some blended families is spousal jealousy. Now a spouse's jealousy can range from becoming resentful towards their spouse's children to feeling insecure about their spouse's former partner/spouse (s).
Some spouses become jealous of the bond that their spouse and his/her children share. They often feel as though the closeness they share with their spouse is somehow threatened by his/her children. If this attitude goes unchecked it can put a wedge between both spouses or the spouse and his/her children. Some spouses will not spend as much time with their own children in order to keep the peace with with their jealous spouse. The children tend to suffer in the long run because they often feel betrayed
Another reason there may be jealousy or insecurities on the spouse's behalf when there are children involved is because some spouses may feel threatened by the former spouse/partner's ongoing involvement in the lives of their spouse as a result of the children they share. They often look at the former spouse as an intrusion. Their are some spouses that fear the possibility of their spouse and his/her former spouse getting back together. This cannot only create friction within the household but it creates friction between the old partner/spouse and the new one. The spouse who shares children with the former spouse or partner are often caught in the middle.
We have often witnessed step children be mistreated due to their step parents insecurities. We can remember one family member in particular whose wife mistreated his daughter for years just because she was jealous of her mother. Many times his daughter was left out of family events. He also did not spend much time with her when she was growing up as a result of his wife's constant envy towards his first born daughter who just happen to be by his first partner.
His daughter often felt as thought he cared for his daughters by his new wife more than he cared for her. Her resentment grew and their relationship has suffered as a result of his lack of involvement in her life.
Brothas and Sistas, you should never allow your spouse to threaten your God - given role as a parent. This matter should be discussed prior to marriage. Your new spouse should have just as much involvement with your children as you do. He or she should encourage as well as embrace your relationship with your children.
They should also recognize and honor the previous spouse's role in the lives of your children and respect them. And so should you, especially in front of your children. You should never, ever have anything bad to say about the other parent in front of them. Mutual respect for one another from your former spouse/partner and new spouse is a priority.
Next week we will talk about strategies in dealing with spousal insecurities. Until then. Take care.
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank you for our blended families. May they walk together in unity. Let no division come among them. Help them to remain focused upon you. Remove jealousy out of their circle. "What God has put together let no man put asunder." In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Tea Time with Tabby
A Brew of the Long Unwanted Journey Part 3
Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Genesis 24:27 New International Version (NIV)
27 saying, “Praise be to the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who has not abandoned his kindness and faithfulness to my master. As for me, the LORD has led me on the journey to the house of my master’s relatives.”
Deuteronomy 25:18 New International Version (NIV)
18 When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and attacked all who were lagging behind; they had no fear of God.
Hebrews 11 New International Version (NIV) Faith in Action
11 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for.
3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I pray you awoke knowing that no matter the circumstance or the outcome our God is Good, Faithful and Trustworthy. Let’s head on over to the Grand Brew Masters table and see what He has prepared to pour out for us today.
As we ended our time together last week I had just about arrived at the hospital to try and find my son, on this huge medical campus. I remember feeling so out of control. I remember thinking as awful as it sounds and preposterous as it really is that somehow God had taken His eyes off Zac and that is how this happened. I couldn’t conceive of God allowing something like this to happen. As I wondered aimless around the campus trying to find the entrance I was told to come too, God sent His first reminders that he hadn’t left or forsaken me. Friends were driving past me there to support me and found me wondering the campus lost. We then found the right building and started to up to see Zac.
As I arrived at the waiting room which you must go into to call back to the nurse’s station to get permission to see your loved one, the room was filled with familiar faces, people I had reached out to for prayer for Zac and travel mercies for me. There was also his husband and Zac’s dad. The flood of overwhelming emotion from gratitude to, anger, to fear, and everything in between flooded me, nearly paralyzing me. Yet at the same time a wave of hope and strength overcame too. I remember hearing God’s voice a little louder now saying see I didn’t forsake you and I won’t forsake your son. I remember thinking to myself that I knew God’s character and He was still Good even in this, and that I needed to treasure and store up these brief moments that reminded me of this very truth. That if I didn’t drink these moments of encouragement, love and support in from all those faithful servants, I would have nothing to give to my son, that I would be empty. So, I took a few minutes and sipped in every hug, every word of encouragement, and moment and word of the prayers that were poured out of their hearts before going to see him for the first time.
Brothers and Sisters, I tell you this I will not be able to deny another brother or sister or stranger in the waiting room of life ever again that needs this support and love. I must give them this same gift that was poured into me that day. That Brew was the substance I needed to be who and what my son needed from me in the moments we given before he was taken off to surgery.
As I made my way back and heard words of explanation and what to expect and what I could or couldn’t do they carried me. I remember that feeling once again of me standing there hold his hand as I am masked and gloved up and gowned up, looking down at my child so badly injured he didn’t look like himself. As I hovered over myself in those moments God gave me a glimpse of what he saw when he looked down from Heaven after his son had been flogged, beaten, spit upon and nailed to a cross. He surely didn’t look like the Son he sent to save the world. I was reminded that God lost His son if only for a few moments while he descended to hell to save all us by defeating death. Now please don’t get me wrong my sons experience certainly isn’t measurable in comparison. I believe God gave me those moments to remind me that He was still in control and that He understood my deep pain and sorrow. Just another mini brew that He poured out for me. A brew of empathy, and sympathy that many wouldn’t be able to relate to and He knew I would need it for the months to come.
Brothers and Sisters what this Brew is all about it’s about remembering as Natalie Grant said on Sunday at the Dare to Be woman’s event speaking of her news that she had Thyroid Cancer and could potentially never be able to sing again, God is always Good, no matter the outcome of our circumstances. This is still a hard brew to sip in, its very hot, and can be very bitter as we begin sipping it in; but it’s like a hot beverage that you didn’t stir the sweetener in and are just waiting for it to dissolve and meld into the Tea. It surprises you suddenly sweeter sips, and the closer you get to the bottom of the cup you have been soothed and are tasting now the sweetness of God’s Love, Faithfulness, Truth and everlasting Goodness.
Our journey with God’s Goodness and Love, and the enemies continued attacks, and God’s continued Faithfulness will continue next week. I will skip ahead to the end our story to share that God didn’t’ forget about me that He sustained me, and blessed me and my son beyond belief. He will be returning to work this weekend after 5 long months. Five long months is what they told us to expect him to be in the hospital at the very least. So, I promise that no matter the outcome of your circumstance God is Good! No matter the outcome God is Good and worthy of our trust and praise! Our lives will never be the same my son’s life will never be the same, but I found God amidst tragedy and have a new hope, and greater appreciation for the many mini brews He has prepared for us each everyday throughout our day. We simply need to be willing to say God I am listening, I’m going to trust you and I am going to be looking for those Tea Cups throughout my day and life.
Till next week, keep the faith or surround yourself with the faithful so that they can carry you till you have the strength to stand in the gap for them one day.
Love Tabby!
What Do You Beleive?
"While He spoke these things to them, behold, a ruler came and worshiped Him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay Your hand on her and she will live.” So Jesus arose and followed him, and so did His disciples. And suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment. For she said to herself, “If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.” But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, “Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And the woman was made well from that hour. When Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing, He said to them, “Make room, for the girl is not dead, but sleeping.” And they ridiculed Him. But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went out into all that land.Two Blind Men Healed. When Jesus departed from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out and saying, “Son of David, have mercy on us!” And when He had come into the house, the blind men came to Him. And Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?”They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” Matthew 9:18 - 28
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Brothas and Sistas, how do we handle situations and circumstances in our lives? Do we get angry with God or do we believe what He says will soon come to pass? As we look at our text prior to that Jesus was just finishing with His response to John's disciples in reference to the question,"How is it that they and the Pharisees fast often but Jesus disciples don't?" Just as He concluded with them, here comes the synagogue leader, whose name by the way is Jairus, who kneels before Jesus and says, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay Your hand on her and she will live.”
There are three points I want to bring to your attention. Let's take a look at the first point.
First point
1. Positive - vs.18 "But come and put your hand on her and she will live." In times of uncertainty we must remain positive. Just like Jairus came to Jesus with a positive attitude believing what Jesus could do without doubting so should we remain positive in our uncertainties. Jairus having the faith as small as a mustard seed believed Jesus was able to bring her back to life and Jesus did just that." Matthew 17:20, Luke 17:6
Second point
2. Persistent - vs. 20 - 22- For 12 years this woman had an issue of blood, but she didn't give up. The bible says, "She came up behind Him and touched the edge of His cloak. " She also said, " If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made whole!!" There are times when we may be praying for deliverance in some areas of our lives and yet it seems as though deliverance may never come but I encourage you to be like this woman. Be persistent and don't ever give up nor give in. Just because God hasn't come at the time we think He should doesn't mean He won't come at all. It took this woman 12 years before she received her healing and for some of us it has been weeks, months and perhaps years but God always comes on time. Philippians 1:6 says, "Being confident of this very thing, He who has begun a good work in you shall perform it until the day of Jesus Christ."
Third point
3. Personal - vs. 27 -28 - Here we see the two blind men following Jesus saying, "Have mercy on us Son of David!" Now notice they didn't stop either because they went in behind Him and Jesus asked, " Do you believe that I am able to do this?" And they answered, "Yes, Lord." When Jesus turned to them and posed the question in a personal way He already knew the answer. He is asking the same of us today. Whatever your need is, Whatever you are seeking God for...He is making it personal to you today. DO YOU BELIEVE I CAN DO THIS?
Our God is in the business of believing. He doesn't have a problem but we do? My question to you is....What do you believe?
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank you for answering our every prayer whether is in one week, one month, one year, or many years we know that you are faithful. Lord, help us with our unbelief during those times when it looks as though you won't come through for us or you are just simply by our standards taking too long. May we walk in faith daily. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Forgive Quickly Part I
"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:31-32
One of the biggest mistakes we can make is to think that we have time to forgive those who have hurt us. We take our time because we think that unforgiveness won’t have a profound affect on us and those around us, but it does. When we lose our peace, we lose our power. We are not as effective in life when we are full of unforgiveness. Let me say it again, “We can only walk in power when we walk in peace with others.”
You see forgiveness opens the door to harmony with ourselves and others. We invite the enemy’s influence into our lives when we don’t forgive. That’s why our lives seem chaotic when we hold onto grudges and resentment. Remember Satan is the author of confusion.
Unforgiveness breeds confusion. Our minds are no longer centered on the Prince of Peace, but we are consumed with the offense and our unforgiveness. Our thoughts are divided because they are no longer Christ centered. God is a God of peace. True peace: God’s peace cannot reside where confusion is. So the sooner we forgive the less the enemy has a chance to wreak havoc in our lives.
Forgiveness is defined as a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. Forgiveness lets the other person off the hook, and it releases you from that same hold. An article in Greater Good Magazine states, “Psychologists generally define forgiveness as a conscious, deliberate decision to release feelings of resentment or vengeance toward a person or group who has harmed you, regardless of whether they actually deserve your forgiveness.” The biblical definition of forgiveness is pardoning an offender.
The Hebrew word for forgiveness is NASA. This definition of forgiveness involves lifting up, to move or remove it. God has given us the ability to lift up someone who has offended us by removing or letting go of the offense. Forgiveness is the gift that never stops giving, never stops freeing and never stops bringing genuine peace to the those involved.
“I think the first step is to understand that forgiveness does not exonerate the perpetrator. Forgiveness liberates the victim. It’s a gift you give yourself. - T.D. Jakes
Sista Michelle
The God of Possibilities - No Limits
" I see your works. I have set before you an open door and no man can shut it." Revelation 3:8
Good morning my precious Brothas and Sistas,
Most people say, "The sky is the limit." Brothas and Sistas, I beg to differ because I believe that there are no limits with God. Many times the Lord has placed an open door before us and we are apprehensive about moving forward. We are on the threshold of walking into something so profoundly awesome and wonderful. Our apprehension could stem from us being afraid to launch into something new and different which sometimes stems from negative self talk. We could be listening to the still small voice within telling us that we can't do it or it's too hard.
To be honest with you, girlfriend sometimes we have the ability to hold ourselves back. We have to learn to move when He says so. Just because things may not look as favorable from MAN'S POINT OF VIEW does not mean that He is not working some things out behind the scenes. I am so glad today that the Lord has a faith's eye view where He can see everything that is going on in our lives and knows our beginning and end.
We simply cannot allow ourselves to be imprisoned with doubt and fear. For the word of God says, " I see your works. I have set before you an open door and no man can shut it." Revelation 3:8 Be encouraged today that the Lord sees all that we are doing for Him, all that we are putting in place for His glory and His glory alone, and sees the heart of what we are doing. And based on that fact, He has set before us a door of opportunity to bless so many others if we be willing not to heed the voice of discouragement and walk through it.
I love the fact that He tells us that no man can shut it. In I Corinthians 16:9 Paul said, "For a wide door for effective service has opened to me, and there are many adversaries." The definition of effective is producing a strong impression, intended or expected result; to appear as to be striking. Adversaries are inevitable. But true ministers of the gospel look at their adversaries as an opportunity to watch God show up and do mighty works on their behalf.
Brothas and Sistas, whenever we are allowing the Lord to fully use us for His glory we bring about a strong impression of the One who commissioned us for the work. Whenever we put our all into one of His projects we will bring about the response that He intended or expected in the process. People around us will take notice and our light will appear to be oh, so striking, to say the least. The world always takes notice of a Kings' daughter that is about her Father's business. Brothas and Sistas' God is placing before us an open door. The question is ..........Will we rely on the faith it takes for us to walk through it in spite of our own insecurities?
Brothas and Sistas, in order for us to walk through this open door we must:
1. Forsake all wicked imaginations and foreboding evil. "All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances]." Proverbs 15: 15
2. Choose not to listen to negative self talk. "For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. Philippians 4:8
3. Do away with all negative advice from without. " Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. ~ Proverbs 12:18
"Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." I Corinthians 15:33
Brothas and Sistas, always remember that there are no limits with Him. Praise His wonderful name!
Smooches,
Sista Michelle
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
We thank you that there are no limits with you. Help us to walk through every open door you have prepared for us without apprehension. We know that there is tremendous blessing on the other side of it. In Jesus name we pray Amen.
What Does True Respect and Love Look Like To You?"
"But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Too often some singles get caught up in what they see, the outer appearance right off the bat. They are looking at the physical appearance as opposed to the spiritual appearance (how a Brotha or Sista handles himself spiritually). They may actually fit the part and talk the part but deep down inside you must ask yourself , "Is he/she really the one?" A godly man or woman will first and foremost respect you. Not only will he respect you, they will respect your faith in God. When he/she respects your faith in God, he/she ultimately will respect you.
A godly man or woman will be more interested in getting to know you based on your relationship with the Lord. He/she will want to get to know you as a person. They will take their time with you and try not to rush or force the relationship. He/she will first get to know you as a friend and will not do things contrary to what is written in God's word.
If there is ever a time that you feel within your spirit that something is not right with he/she don't compromise it. Learn to listen to what the Holy Spirit is telling you about him/her. Mind how he/she respects you and your body first and foremost.
Believe it or not there are still some single men and women out there that will honor you and respect your body. For example, Anthony Evans, Dr. Tony Evans son is a single young adult man that's still celibate. When he dates women he does not look at them as a piece of meat but he looks at them for who they are as a person. Now that is a godly man. He does not like aggressive women because he does not like being pressured. He prefers asking women out on dates. Now, he does not mind phone calls but he would rather take his rightful place as a godly man and pursue the female.
Sistas, do not pursue a man. Let him pursue you. Whenever you pursue a man he will disrespect you hands down. You should never allow yourselves to be made to feel like a piece of meat. Don't allow him to come at you any old kind of way. He needs to be straight with you, without having a bunch of lines to throw at you. He does not need to have anything rehearsed or play a bunch of games when he approaches you. He just needs to be himself, he needs to be real.
And when it comes to marriage, godly men and women will not ask for a prenuptial either. Ungodly men and women tend to be selfish and more concerned about their stuff and what they can get out of the situation and the world. Godly men and women will always seek your best and give, give, give. Prenups are an excuse to get out of the marriage and they create a false sense of security for him/her. When you allow a prenup you are admitting to God and everyone else that the relationship may not work. It is a set up by Satan and a set up for a fall back plan for him/her. Later on down the road , when he/she feels like he no longer wants to be married, well after he/she gets your goodies and things don't go his way, that Brotha or Sista will have a fall back plan. It is his/her way of protecting his/her investment and it devalues the relationship and leaves him/her with a false sense of security about his/her precious stuff.
Brothas and Sistas, that right there should tell you what he/she really cares about. A godly man or woman will trust God for the relationship. If he/she spends time getting to know you, a prenup will not be an option. He/she will recognize that it all belongs to God anyway and he/she will not need to protect anything because he/she will know it was not his/hers from the git. Okay Brothas and Sistas, I am done for now but I will be back next week. Take care.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
Thank you for giving us wisdom when it comes to relationships. May we listen to your Holy Spirit so that we can know your will and will choose not to go ahead of you. Help us to love and respect ourselves first and foremost so that we will know what true love and respect looks like in a potential mate. We know that you have your best in mind for us when it comes to a mate. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Tea Time with Tabby
A Brew of the Long Unwanted Journey Part 2
Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Genesis 24:27 New International Version (NIV)
27 saying, “Praise be to the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who has not abandoned his kindness and faithfulness to my master. As for me, the LORD has led me on the journey to the house of my master’s relatives.”
Deuteronomy 25:18 New International Version (NIV)
18 When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and attacked all who were lagging behind; they had no fear of God.
Hebrews 11 New International Version (NIV) Faith in Action
11 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.
By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I pray you awoke knowing that no matter the circumstance or the outcome our God is Good, Faithful and Trustworthy. Let’s head on over to the Grand Brew Masters table and see what He has prepared to pour out for us today.
As we ended our time together last week I had just about arrived at the hospital to try and find my son, on this huge medical campus. I remember feeling so out of control. I remember thinking as awful as it sounds and preposterous as it really is that somehow God had taken His eyes off Zac and that is how this happened. I couldn’t conceive of God allowing something like this to happen. As I wondered aimless around the campus trying to find the entrance I was told to come too, God sent His first reminders that he hadn’t left or forsaken me. Friends were driving past me there to support me and found me wondering the campus lost. We then found the right building and started to up to see Zac.
As I arrived at the waiting room which you must go into to call back to the nurse’s station to get permission to see your loved one, the room was filled with familiar faces, people I had reached out to for prayer for Zac and travel mercies for me. There was also his husband and Zac’s dad. The flood of overwhelming emotion from gratitude to, anger, to fear, and everything in between flooded me, nearly paralyzing me. Yet at the same time a wave of hope and strength overcame too. I remember hearing God’s voice a little louder now saying see I didn’t forsake you and I won’t forsake your son. I remember thinking to myself that I knew God’s character and He was still Good even in this, and that I needed to treasure and store up these brief moments that reminded me of this very truth. That if I didn’t drink these moments of encouragement, love and support in from all those faithful servants, I would have nothing to give to my son, that I would be empty. So, I took a few minutes and sipped in every hug, every word of encouragement, and moment and word of the prayers that were poured out of their hearts before going to see him for the first time.
Brothers and Sisters, I tell you this I will not be able to deny another brother or sister or stranger in the waiting room of life ever again that needs this support and love. I must give them this same gift that was poured into me that day. That Brew was the substance I needed to be who and what my son needed from me in the moments we given before he was taken off to surgery.
As I made my way back and heard words of explanation and what to expect and what I could or couldn’t do they carried me. I remember that feeling once again of me standing there hold his hand as I am masked and gloved up and gowned up, looking down at my child so badly injured he didn’t look like himself. As I hovered over myself in those moments God gave me a glimpse of what he saw when he looked down from Heaven after his son had been flogged, beaten, spit upon and nailed to a cross. He surely didn’t look like the Son he sent to save the world. I was reminded that God lost His son if only for a few moments while he descended to hell to save all us by defeating death. Now please don’t get me wrong my sons experience certainly isn’t measurable in comparison. I believe God gave me those moments to remind me that He was still in control and that He understood my deep pain and sorrow. Just another mini brew that He poured out for me. A brew of empathy, and sympathy that many wouldn’t be able to relate to and He knew I would need it for the months to come.
Brothers and Sisters what this Brew is all about it’s about remembering as Natalie Grant said on Sunday at the Dare to Be woman’s event speaking of her news that she had Thyroid Cancer and could potentially never be able to sing again, God is always Good, no matter the outcome of our circumstances. This is still a hard brew to sip in, its very hot, and can be very bitter as we begin sipping it in; but it’s like a hot beverage that you didn’t stir the sweetener in and are just waiting for it to dissolve and meld into the Tea. It surprises you suddenly sweeter sips, and the closer you get to the bottom of the cup you have been soothed and are tasting now the sweetness of God’s Love, Faithfulness, Truth and everlasting Goodness.
Our journey with God’s Goodness and Love, and the enemies continued attacks, and God’s continued Faithfulness will continue next week. I will skip ahead to the end our story to share that God didn’t’ forget about me that He sustained me, and blessed me and my son beyond belief. He will be returning to work this weekend after 5 long months. Five long months is what they told us to expect him to be in the hospital at the very least. So, I promise that no matter the outcome of your circumstance God is Good! No matter the outcome God is Good and worthy of our trust and praise! Our lives will never be the same my son’s life will never be the same, but I found God amidst tragedy and have a new hope, and greater appreciation for the many mini brews He has prepared for us each everyday throughout our day. We simply need to be willing to say God I am listening, I’m going to trust you and I am going to be looking for those Tea Cups throughout my day and life.
Till next week, keep the faith or surround yourself with the faithful so that they can carry you till you have the strength to stand in the gap for them one day.
Love
Tabby!
Meanwhile Faith - Preparing For Abundant Rain
"And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go, eat and drink, for there is the sound of a heavy rain.” So Ahab went off to eat and drink, but Elijah climbed to the top of Carmel, bent down to the ground and put his face between his knees. “Go and look toward the sea,” he told his servant. And he went up and looked. “There is nothing there,” he said. Seven times Elijah said, “Go back.” The seventh time the servant reported, “A cloud as small as a man’s hand is rising from the sea.” So Elijah said, “Go and tell Ahab, ‘Hitch up your chariot and go down before the rain stops you.’” Meanwhile, the sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose, a heavy rain started falling and Ahab rode off to Jezreel. The power of the LORD came on Elijah and, tucking his cloak into his belt, he ran ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel." I Kings 18:44
Good morning Saints,
MORE, BIG, BIGGER, BIGGEST, LARGE, LARGER, LARGEST and the EXTRAVAGANT are just a few of the words used to describe those things that we pursue that may be considered as larger than life. But God does not always initially show up in the larger than life. I am reminded this morning of the story of Elijah and Ahab. Scriptures reads as follows. "And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go, eat and drink, for there is the sound of a heavy (abundant rain).” So Ahab went off to eat and drink, but Elijah climbed to the top of Carmel, bent down to the ground and put his face between his knees. “Go and look toward the sea,” he told his servant. And he went up and looked. “There is nothing there,” he said. Seven times Elijah said, “Go back.” The seventh time the servant reported, “A cloud as small as a man’s hand is rising from the sea.” You see Saints, that right there is what we would call a small beginning.
Remember the definition of small is being below the average in size or magnitude; limited in importance or significance; trivial. I can imagine Elijah's servant Ahab, scratching his head in sheer amazement at the prophets request wondering what was Elijah's drug of choice that day because there was only the sound of heavy (abundant) rain so that brother had to be wired up on something.
Ahab being the Christian snob that he was could not even fathom looking for the invisible because He was too focused on the visible. He had the audacity to say to his master ,“There is nothing there.” Ahab felt as though his master's request was a small matter, one of limited importance. Oh, you know how it is when we have been given a task from a leader that is a visionary and we see little significance in the task because we have not yet embraced the full vision. We tend to be somewhat critical and gripe about the seemingly trivial task that is needed to be done to help the larger than life vision come into fruition.
Saints, we have to stop signifying and being so nosy to the point that we just focus on what we mentally (of or relating to the mind; intellectual: existing in the mind: void of spiritual perception) perceive (to regard as being such) to be true when we should be trusting God for the unseen. You see Saints, whenever we endeavor to become a Spirit walker we have to do away with our intellect, you know what appears to be true, we have to go beyond what exist in our mere minds and take hold to what truly exist in the mind of God. Check this out. "Seven times Elijah said, “Go back.”
There are times when what we do seems monotonous (routine; tedious; repetitious or lacking in variety; weariness; dullness). In other words, we get tired of doing the same old things day in and day out because we have yet to come to the conclusion that obedience is better than sacrifice. I Samuel 15:22. The seventh time the servant reported, “A cloud as small as a man’s hand is rising from the sea.” You see that is all Ahab had to do was finally see his leaders vision unravel right before him. But he first had to obey the minute task. Ahab's faith was ignited by his obedience. This seemingly small cloud began to overspread the heavens and watered the earth.
Matthew Henry says, "Great blessings often arise from small beginnings and clouds of plenty from a cloud of a span long." The story goes on to say, "So Elijah said, “Go and tell Ahab, ‘Hitch up your chariot and go down before the rain stops you.” You see Elijah wanted nothing to get in the way of them getting to their intended (purpose designed or deliberate; to make a vague word more precise so that the word's meaning is not left to the interpretation of the reader or listener destination) Elijah was on his way somewhere.
The story goes on to say, "Meanwhile, the sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose, a heavy rain started falling and Ahab rode off to Jezreel. Meanwhile is defined as the intervening time; during or in the intervening time: ex. Meanwhile, life goes on. ; at the same time. Okay let's expound on that word MEANWHILE. Hmmm... For that period you are going through your trial, for that time all hell is breaking lose, for that point in time when you can't see your way clear, while you are waiting for the abundant rain, while you are waiting for your promotion, your promised business, your healing, your deliverance, your new ministry, you just simply keep on being faithful, keep on serving Him, and keep praising Him all the more.
And here is why. Scriptures goes on to say, "The power of the LORD came on Elijah and, tucking his cloak into his belt, he ran ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel." I Kings 18:44 Saints, the power of the Lord will come upon you when you walk in obedience to all that he has told you to do no matter how off the chain, how insignificant it sounds. That brother was so full of Him that he ran all the way to Jezreel. Saints, what about you? Do You Have Meanwhile Faith? Then learn to wait on and expect an ABUNDANCE OF RAIN!/BLESSINGS!
Smooches,
Me
Prayer Time
Dear Lord,
Thank you for preparing us for abundant rain. Help us to walk in meanwhile faith. Help us to relish obedience in areas that seem so small and minute for with seemingly small opportunities to be obedient comes greater blessings. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Am I My Brother's Keeper
https://youtu.be/bfveawSAHJA?list=PLWvahZRxLnLMSWeULnub0CCeQzvxGM8hB
"Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men." I Thessalonians 5:14
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
During wartime efforts whenever a soldier was badly wounded it was customary for fellow comrades (soldiers) to pick him up and carry him to a place of safety so that he could obtain healing and restoration. If a wounded soldier was left alone to die it was called abandonment. In the worst case scenario, it could be viewed as betrayal.
Soldiers were taught the importance of sticking together. When one soldier was down another soldier was there to pick him up. A good soldier realized that it was impossible to win a war by himself because there is strength in unity. The only way the enemy could be defeated was to strategize which included winning the war by combining forces.
Brothas and Sistas, it is a combined effort that leads to victory. Our commander in chief, God, has a similar strategy for us as Christians to wage war against our enemy, Satan. Many of our Brothas and Sistas, have been badly wounded during fierce battles of life. Some are MIA (missing in action), others are A.W.O.L. (absent without leave) and many have abandoned or deserted the war effort. They have retreated from the battlefield.
Brothas and Sistas, it is our duty to come alongside of them, get them back on the battlefield of life and help them to continue to fight the Good fight of FAITH. In this complicated world filled with trials we must realize that we are better off when we stand together in destroying the enemy. In fact, the more difficult life is the more powerful the weapon of unity becomes.
Though life's struggle's assail,
Our love for one another against the enemy will prevail,
No battle is too intense,
No war fought is without recompense,
Every victory is won,
No course is undone,
When we ban together
in Christian brotherhood as one.
Prayer Time
Thank you for giving us the strategy of unity to defeat the enemy. Give us your compassion so that we may lift up our fellow Brothas and Sistas that have been wounded on the battlefield of life. Help us to bring them to safety, help mend their wounds, and then encourage them to get back on the battlefield of life. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Trust His Plan
https://youtu.be/qvi7j4hCZnI?list=PLbIwq6HuKrKw9-c63LJcynWeuJ6IjxOpx
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
God's plan for our lives is always different than ours. He knows what's best for us as well as what's not. Remember Moses and how God knew the plans for him from birth to death. Moses was already being molded and shaped by God in spite of what he thought he could not do.
Moses was adopted by Pharaoh's daughter, taught by the best Egyptians, became a murderer by defending a fellow Hebrew, fled and remained in exile for 40 years, and then returned to lead God's people out of Egypt. Think about it, if Moses had his way he would not have done any of this but as you can see, this was the undeniable plan of God to use the circumstances of Moses's life to bring glory to Himself. This is why we must understand that the events that happen in our lives from our past, both good and bad are for our good and God's glory. (Romans 8:28)
Remember how God used the tragedies of our past to allow us to have a stronger dependency on Him. After all, how can we be the best in our ministries if we had not gone through what we had. We went through all of that so that we may be able to minister to others in and through the power and goodness of God. Sadly enough, we blame God or hold onto a bitter attitude towards God for what we go through or have gone through.
Listen Brothas and Sistas, there is nothing to deep in your life that God can't handle and then use. He loves you. So Brothas and Sistas, trust His Plan even when you can't see His hand. Amen.
Take care until next time.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Dear Lord,
You are such a remarkable God. We love you so! Thank you for your wonderful plan for all of our lives. May we trust your plan especially when you seem silent and we can't see your hand. Help us to walk in obedience so that we can fulfill our destiny. Thank you for using our past to help prepare us for what you have in store for us. In Jesus name we pray.
Does Your Practice Match Your Potential?
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Joshua says, "How long are ye slack to go to possess the land, which the LORD God of your fathers hath given you?" Joshua 18:3
In other words, the Israelites were too well pleased with their present condition to move into what was already destined to them. Brothas and Sistas, the spoils of the cities they had taken allowed them to live plentifully and put away the thought of what was to come; what had been already promised. Many of us do as the Israelites did and divert from our real duties by lavishing in the comforts of the world due to difficulties that arise.
The definition of practice is to do or perform habitually or repeatedly in order to acquire a skill. The adjective form of practice is potential. Potential means capable of being but not yet in existence; having possibility, capability or power. The noun form of potential is the inherent ability or capability for growth development or coming into being; something possessing the capability for growth or development.
I remember watching a college football game where the sports announcer/analyst was talking about a player who was good but he had great potential and he had yet to tap into it. We all have potential but the question is, " How far are we willing to go to match it? "There are three things that keep us from reaching our potential.
Here is a list of those three things.
1. Comfort - the people became complacent and comfortable with so much to the point that they did not even move forward to possess the land once they crossed over to other side of Jordan.
2. Pride - They thought they did not have to do anything else after they set up tent. The country was brought under control but seven tribes had yet to receive their inheritance. One example of this is when King David was prideful when he sinned with Bathsheba. It made him prideful because he thought his kingship allowed him to do what he wanted. He thought he did not have to answer to anyone but in the end Nathan confronted him under the influence of God.
3. Attitude - The Israelites attitude was nonchalant and lackadaisical towards the promise God had set before them. They knew they would have to face adversity in order to obtain the land but chose to settle where they were. On the contrary, Joseph knew his potential as a young boy but his attitude toward the things God had shown him taught him how to respond to adversity. Joseph said to his brothers, "You meant it for evil but God meant meant it for good." Genesis 50:20
Brothas and Sistas, people will do and say things to cause us to change our attitude about our potential. Joseph was thrown into a pit, sold into slavery accused of rape, put in prison and yet God elevated him through his ability to interpret dreams. He became second in command.
Food for thought:
Are you comfortable where you are today eventhough you have yet to enter your "Promise Land?"
Do you allow pride and your need to have your way get in the way of doing God's will for your life?
Are you complacent or lackadaisical?
In other words..................................
"Does your practice match your potential?"
Until next time, take care.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Dear Lord,
Thank you for being so awesome! Help us to line our practice up with our potential. May we walk in obedience and integrity. May we not remain comfortable where we are but intentionally move towards our "Promise Land." In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Tea Time With Tabby - "Blessings, What Do We Count As Blessing in our Daily Lives"
True Love
“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.“ Rom.5:8
"God's unfailing love for us is an objective fact affirmed over and over in the Scriptures. It is true whether we believe it or not. Our doubts do not destroy God's love, nor does our faith create it. It originates in the very nature of God, who is love, and it flows to us through our union with His beloved Son." Jerry Bridges
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
What's your definition of true love? Webster's defines it as truly beloved or loving; darling, dear, or main squeeze. Some of us who don't know any better may get it twisted and perceive “Charm City's“ elite playa who whispers sweet nothings to be the definition of true love only to find out his motive was anything but true love.
So let's take a look at what the epitome of true love is. God who is defined as love, loved us so (a term of utter endearment) that He gave his only son so that we might live (have eternal life). John 3:16 The bible says, “Greater love has no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friend.“ John 15:13
Brothas and Sistas, Christ not only exemplifies His great love for us but is the undeniable definition of true love. When all others fail, His love is a love that we can truly count on. There is no greater love.
"Satan is ever seeking to inject that poison into our hearts to distrust God's goodness - especially in connection with his commandments. That is what really lies behind all evil, lusting and disobedience. A discontent with our position and portion, a craving from something which God has wisely held from us. Reject any suggestion that God is unduly severe with you. Resist with the utmost abhorrence anything that causes you to doubt God's love and his lovingkindness toward you. Allow nothing to make you question the Father's love for his child." A.W. Pink
Blessings,
Sista Michelle
Your Priority in Seeking Him Reaps Rewards
Watch "Sinach - More of you" on YouTube
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Some of us are trying to obtain things that will only wither away once we get them because we have put those things in front of Him. But when we put Christ first nothing is off the table or off limits with Him. He relishes in our obedience to Him. Why? Because it proves that we trust Him more than any fear, storm or enemy that threatens us.
Fear can immobilize you to a place of sedimentary status while faith instead catapults you to a boundless life of blessings and greatness. Fear says, "I got to do this to get that." While Faith says, "God's got this so I don't have to do this to get that." Matthew 6:33 consistently reminds us that our job is to trust Him enough to make Him a priority. When we do this material needs will follow without us having to worry or be anxious.
James 1:8 says, "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. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord." You see we can't expect to receive all that God has for us when we are all tied up in worry, anxiety and regret. Our faith is what pushes His promises off the pages of the bible to manifest an overflow of favor, peace and substance in the lives of those who trust Him.
Brothas and Sistas, stop worry and fretting over those things that are totally out of your control. Stop trying to obtain things in your own strength. Your priority in seeking Him reaps rewards.
Prayer of Faith
Lord, help us in our unbelief. You have made a way when there seemed to be absolutely no way. Help us to trust you when we don't see how a way will be made in times of trouble. We thank you for being Jehovah Jireh in our lives. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Always and Forever
Watch "Always & Forever Heat Wave" on YouTube
Watch "BeBe and CeCe Winans - I Found Love (Cindy's Song)" on YouTube
Peter 4:8 "Above all love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins."
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
"Always and Forever", a song that many couples really love to listen to and love to have as their wedding song. You remember the lyrics: "Always and Forever each moment with you, is just like a dream to me that some how came true." Now remember when you said, "And I know tomorrow will still be the same , cause we've got a life of love that won't ever change.....
Oh, how we were so much in love and we looked into each others eyes to make sure that each one of us understood how sincere we were. We felt that the dream we had of the person we wanted to marry would soon come true. Ahh, what a wonderful vision we had of each other. Then one day everything changed. The "Always and Forever" is now "I can't wait to get away from you!" What happened? Who changed? Questions.........but really no answers.
The one we thought had a smile that could melt the heart, smiles that makes you angry now. The one who was supposed to tell you how much they care, doesn't tell you that nor do they have a caring attitude towards you now.
Our marriages are falling apart mainly due to infidelity, lack of desire, a disrespectful spouse, etc,. We no longer see each other with the desire we once had in the beginning of our relationship. What happened to the always together and in love forever?
I Peter 4:8 says, "Above all love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins." Brothas and Sistas, God teaches us to love each other deeply but unfortunately that does not happen in many marriages. So perhaps the real question is was it love in the beginning or was it infatuation. You see true love is hard to break, but infatuation is temporal. It shows love at first sight but not true love within.
Many of us have been given warnings based on what we see in that person in advance. Some things have been told to us by family and friends. Some things have been revealed to us by what the person we marry says, but we ignored the signs and warnings and still made the choice to marry them but now you are feeling the pain of that decision.
True love looks beyond the minor issues that can start a fire and covers them and ministers to the need. Now I'm not telling you to ignore the issues. I will talk about that more later. True love will lasts, "Always and Forever."
Prayer of Faith
Thank you for your amazing love that looks beyond our fault to see our needs. Help us to express this same love towards our spouse. May we see them as the gift you made them to be to us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Tea Time with Tabby A Brew of the Long Unwanted Journey
Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Genesis 24:27 New International Version (NIV)
saying, “Praise be to the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not abandoned his kindness and faithfulness to my master. As for me, the Lord has led me on the journey to the house of my master’s relatives.”
Deuteronomy 25:18 New International Version (NIV)
"When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and attacked all who were lagging behind; they had no fear of God."
Hebrews 11 New International Version (NIV) Faith in Action
"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible."
Good Morning everyone,
I pray that you have awoken in the Truth that God is with you in every part of your journey. I have missed our time together over the past many months, as God has taken me and my family on a journey that was less than desired less than expected, and certainly at times devastating. I can honestly say that my faith was tested in new ways that were beyond my comprehensible faith. I can also share that my faith upheld by my brothers and sisters in Christ praying on my behalf and on the behalf of my family. I must say thank you to each of them before we move into our Tea Party today.
Let’s Pray- Lord I thank you for bringing me and my family through this long unwanted journey and yet I know that this journey is not completed I am seeing your handy work throughout it, even in the worst of it. Lord, thanks for the lessons, the comfort, and strength you provided me through the faithful that you have placed in my life.
Let’s grab our Tea Cups and head over the Grand Brew Master’s Table and hear from Him and be in his presence and grace. This Brew was certainly a surprise it came out nowhere, and it nearly destroyed me. How the journey began I was at my mom’s home finishing my 2 weeks with her caring for her after surgery. My cell phone kept ringing near noon time with an unknown call, likely scam call, and no voicemail. Not sure about you but especially on a Sunday afternoon who wants to deal with those telemarketer calls? Finally, this one left a voicemail. This voicemail would change not only my life our families forever.
As I listened to the voicemail I can remember feeling myself splitting like I could nearly see myself sitting on the couch listening to the words that my son’s stepmother was speaking. I will be completely honest here in this moment, I cried out to the Lord for wisdom and comprehension but I also sip in the bitter lies that God wasn’t in control of this situation and I needed to be the one in control.
Have you ever found yourself literally split in two? Knowing by faith that God is always in control, but at the exact same moment buying one of the greatest and oldest lies the enemies tell us at the exact same moment?
The voicemail simply said Kim, Zac (my son) was in horrific car accident the night before nearly 12 hrs ago. I and his father needed to go to the hospital to identify him. Yes, IDENTIFY him!!! Can you relate to the bitterness of this brew, my son, identify him, not see him, not talk to him but Identify him! I called back and it took several attempts to reach his father and stepmothe, as I asked for more details they weren’t forthcoming. I asked what hospital they simply stated John Hopkins. I asked which campus they replied the police didn’t tell us. Police what about the Police?
As I began to process what I was hearing I still had 2 Tea Cups before the one filled with God’s truths and promises and His track record and our history of His faithfulness to me. Then there was the other tea cup I was sipping from the filled with lies and contradictions, and twisted truths, and all out doubt and disbelief.
As this journey began to unfold I began to sip more and more initially from the tea cup filled with lies. I tried to get answers such as what did the police say when they came to your home, what is the police officers name, badge number, phone number, office anything? What campus of John’s Hopkins is Zac at? What do you mean come and identify him, is he gone, is he hurt and alone feeling abandoned by his family, by me his mom? Could I have somehow changed the course of this brew had I returned home a day earlier as initially planned? Do you see how this tea cup of questionable faith and lies that God is not in control that I somehow am supposed to be able to control all the outcomes for those I love in a favorable manner is simply Ludacris! How could this be possible? But in those moments, this is what my heart was feeling and trusting in. Yet at the same time I felt this small voice trying to yell above it all.
It was my other tea cup filled with truth that God knows me, God loves me, and that is true for son and every one of us, always in every circumstance with and without faith in who He is what His son chose to sacrifice for all. As I began to sip in this brew I could gain enough clarity to call upon my brothers and sisters in Christ and ask for prayer. I needed travel mercies as I was 3 hours away from either of the two possible hospital locations. I needed faith that God would see me through whatever the truth was about my son because of the car accident. I needed clarity to be able to find out more information and temper my temper, fear, anxiety and desperation to know what, how, when, where was going on with my son.
I finally found out which hospital he was in thanks to God’s goodness. A hospital employee broke the rules and found him for me after many had simply said they didn’t have anyone fitting his age and gender and race in the ER or Morgue. Finally, I was told that he was in Burn ICU at Johns Hopkins in critical condition and that he needed immediate surgery. That was all they could tell me but you see it was filled with hope, he was alive. God’s faithfulness was being revealed. I spent the next 2 ½ hours of that drive praising God, pleading with God, and bargaining God for my son’s life.
Brothers’ and Sisters’ God’s Truth and Faithfulness was in one Tea Cup and the Evil One's lies were in the other but understood and we began walking through this Most Unwanted Journey together.
To be continued next week, please join us next week to see how God’s faithfulness and His Faithful followers, can bring us through the worst of all things possible, even if our faith is under attack.
A way to capture the Truths of God, and Dismiss the Lies of the Enemy in midst of a journey such as mine, or to re-kindle your faith following a journey of heartache, loss of faith etc. I journaled each day sometimes in specific journal and at other times through an online journal that allowed family and friends to follow along and be a part of this journey. This has helped me to be able to see God’s Hand throughout the Brew.
Prayer
God,
Thank you for your faithfulness even when I am not sipping from the Tea Cup of Truth and Promises that you have provided for me through your Son Jesus Christ’s birth, death and resurrection. Thank you Lord for loving me when I am at my worst and my best, thank you father for always pouring more faith into my cup through the love and fellowship of my brothers and sisters in Christ that are examples of your faithfulness and goodness to me all the days of my life.
Till next week,
Love Tabby
Taking Care of Our Temples
"Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." I Corinthians 6:19, 20
Good morning Brothers and Sistas,
How much of you are you willing to surrender to Him for your own well being? You know it is not so much in what we say, but are we willing to allow Him to be an expression of Himself through us? Many times we have made a public confession of surrender to the Lord but our actions speak louder than our words.
Brothers and Sistas, when we are not willing to take care of our bodies, minds and emotions we have not given full right of our entire being over to the Holy Spirit. Even if we don't say it verbally, our actions are saying, "Lord, I got this." If something happens to our temples there is no more expression of the Holy Spirit through us.
"Taking care of your body, your health, and your emotions is not selfish. Why not? Because your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. God has given you the job of taking care of yourself for His namesake. You are a tool of the Holy Spirit that He uses for His purposes. But if you damage that tool by running yourself into the ground until you are tired and sick and emotionally exhausted, then God cannot use you very effectively."
Let's listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and take better care of ourselves. Amen
“Respect, Love, and Value yourself. Always remember to be good to yourself by taking care of yourself. Make yourself a priority and know that it’s okay. Don’t feel guilty for loving yourself, first! You’re just as important as anybody else.”
― Stephanie Lahart
Prayer Time
We thank you for this amazing day and all that you are going to do in the lives of your people. May we learn the importance of taking care of our bodies (temples).We pray that we would listen to the promptings of the Holy Spirit so that we can walk in victory today. We pray all these things in your precious name, Jesus. Amen.
Forgiveness from the Heart
“Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go. “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded. “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’ “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” Matthew 18: 23-35
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Many times we think we have forgiven someone who has wronged us but when confronted by God to extend mercy by way of a kind word or greeting all of the hurt and angry feelings tend to resurface. Even if we are given the opportunity to come face to face with the person our hurt refuses to move beyond yesterday's offense. That my Brothas and Sistas, proves that we have not truly forgiven them because we have not forgiven them from the heart.
Our heart is regarded as the seat of our emotions, the seat of knowledge and wisdom and can be used of man himself or his personality. The Hebrew word for heart is "leb" spoken which stands for the inner part of a person and refers to our will, mind, emotions and understanding. It refers to our moral character and determination.
You see in order for us to truly forgive our entire being within must be in total alignment and subjection with the will of our Heavenly Father. Forgiveness is not a half-hearted act. Our heart which encompasses our will, mind, emotions and understanding are the driving force of our moral character. It must be in total harmony with what is reflected on the inside of us after Christ enters our DNA once we give our lives, heart, and mind to Him. And since He exemplified the epitome of forgiveness in that one sacred act on the cross of dying for our sins we are destined to follow His lead.
That means that we have to allow Christ to do the work from deep within healing every aspect of our prior pain. And this act of mercy requires Him to do a work from the inside out. We cant forgive in just word. Our forgiveness has to go beyond what we say. It has to be in deed also. You see, our words mean nothing unless we act on them.
Question: If you knew your worst enemy was in need and God gave you the provision to supply their need through grace without letting others know or being angry about it would you sincerely extend your hand to help them at their weakest moment without throwing up it up in their face even if they never apologized for the offense?
Ahhh, you see that is where the real test of forgiveness comes in. True forgiveness expects nothing in return. True forgiveness reflects the love and mercy of Christ. He loves us past all of our wrongdoing whether we repent, say we are sorry or not. His love and mercy towards is not conditional. It is not contingent upon our response to Him being gracious to us.
Brothers and Sisters will you forgive from the heart today? Don't just say I forgive and not truly mean it, Act on it, Walk in it. Amen.
"Forgiveness is the economy of the heart. Forgiveness saves the expense of anger, the cost of hatred, the waste of spirit." Hannah More
Prayer of Faith
Thank you Lord for showing us ourselves this morning. It is easy to say we have forgiven someone but not really mean it from the heart. Help us to completely let go of our offenses so that we can successfully fulfill your plan in the earth which is to show love towards the unlovable just as you have shown love, grace, mercy and forgiveness towards us, the unlovable. In Jesus name we pray.
Troubles Will Come but They Won't Stay
"The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. " Psalms 34:17-20
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
Over the last couple of weeks I have encountered many discouraged people of God and each one of them are asking the same types of questions like Where is God? Why would He allow this to happen to me? There seems to be some confusion among the Saints. News Flash: God never told us in His word that we wouldn't have troubles. As a matter of fact, it reveals in several scriptures that we would have "troubles" and that we would "suffer".
"Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." 2 Timothy 3:12
"For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong." 1 Peter 3:17
"The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken." Psalms 34:19-20
Brothas and Sistas, God is aware of every issue that we are faced with. As I walk this journey with the Lord I have learned and will continue to learn that my troubles serve as part of the process to the place God has prepared for me. It's in the troubles that we gain our strength, its in the troubles that we get to see the power of God move in our lives.
I believe that we are asking God the wrong questions. Instead of asking Why?? How about asking God, "What?"; "What do you want me to learn in this season of my life?"" What are you trying to reveal to me through this situation?" or "Please give me strength needed to endure the process?"
Brothers and Sistas, God is so Awesome that He gives us encouragement in His word to let us know that while we will have these things called "troubles". He also informs us that "He will deliver us from them all." What a mighty God we serve that He has already added in provisions for every circumstance that we may encounter. That's what you call LOVE.....
Be Encouraged.....
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Roman 8:28
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Provers 3:5-6
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." Isaiah 43:2
(Don't just read God's Word - Meditate on it and Hide it In Your Heart and when trouble comes you can pull it out of the Spiritual vault for Comfort).
Prayer Time
Father God,
I just want to say Thank You for loving us enough to allow us to suffer in order that we may come to know you more Intimately. In Jesus Name I Pray. Amen.
The Power of Love
https://youtu.be/h5Ua835sudU Slow Jam
"But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.” Ruth 1: 16 - 17
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
I was talking to a young lady and I just happened to ask her if she was married and she said, "Yes." But when I inquired about her husband her response was very shallow. So when she inquired about different places she wanted to travel to I asked her, "Who would watch your daughter? Would it be your husband?" She replied. "No, my mother would watch her." I asked, "Is your mother watching your daughter because your husband is busy." She replied, "No." and I said, "I take it that you and your husband are separated." And she said, "Yes." She went on to give the reason eventhough I didn't ask. She said they were separated because he was repeating the same offense over and over. So I asked her "Do you love him?" and she answered, "Yes, I do, very much even to the point where I have reconciled with him four times for the same thing. "
This couple have been together thirteen years but have been married one and a half years. I asked her if she would be willing to take him back again and she said, "Yes." Then I asked her, "Why?" She said, "I love him very much even with his faults."
Eventhough they were going through some issues in their marriage she loved him in spite of this one particular fault. She did not have justifiable grounds according to the word of God to divorce him but she decided to separate so that he can have time to get it together. Most people would have walked away by now but her love for him has withstood the test of time.
Brothas and Sistas, has the power of love in your marriage withstood trials? Has the power of love withstood the test of time in your marriage? Are you in it to win it? “God intends and expects marriage to be a lifetime commitment between a man and a woman, based on the principles of biblical love. The relationship between Jesus Christ and His church is the supreme example of the committed love that a husband and wife are to follow in their relationship with each other.” ~ John C. Broger
Take care till next week.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Dear Lord,
Thank you for your commitment to our marriages. Help us to trust you with our marriages. May we fully commit them to you as we stay committed to one another. In Jeus name we pray. Amen.
A Brew of True Riches
Romans 11:33 New International Version (NIV) "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!"
Job 36:18 New International Version (NIV) "Be careful that no one entices you by riches; do not let a large bribe turn you aside."
Proverbs 11:28New International Version (NIV) "Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf."
Isaiah 45:3 New International Version (NIV) "I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places,so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name."
Ephesians 1:18 New International Version (NIV) "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people."
Romans 9:23 New International Version (NIV) "What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory—"
Colossians 2:2 New International Version (NIV) "My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ."
Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Christ! I pray that this morning you awoke in the loving truth of Christ Jesus and the unconditional love that He has for you.
Let's grab our Tea Cups and head over to the Grand Brew Masters Table and see what He has for us to sip upon today.
Have you ever wondered what "Riches" God is referencing in the bible? Money is mentioned 140 times in the King James Version of the Bible. If we include the words gold, silver, wealth, riches, inheritance, debt, poverty, and related words. As I have mentioned before that if there is word or theme that God chooses to use to teach us through His Good Word and it is repeated over and over then it's one we likely better pay attention too. God uses these words throughout the old testament and the new testament, in my view making the worth of these words even greater.
How would you define riches? What do you think the world and society are telling us and that we are often believing about riches or money? Do you think that you personally may fall into the category of someone with great wealth or riches by the worlds standards? Do you think that your minor children may fall into the category as some of the riches in the world, just based on the allowance you have provided them? Well I was surprised to really get an actual factual understanding of this a few years ago at a Toby Mac and Mandisa Concert. They were supporting a great cause "Feed the Children." During Toby Mac's into for this charity he shared with the audience that we are in the top 1% of the world wealthiest. Then he went onto to share that this includes our minor children here in the USA. This is true even if you are only making minimum wage. Crazy right. Yet are we ever satisfied? Do we always hunger for more money, more stuff, or ___________________. I think to be completely honest I fall into that category of wanting more, stuff, more money, more time, more and more...
Brothers and Sisters, do we believe that stuff, money, power, influence are they these the riches that God speaks of in His word? Are these the riches that He is storing away in the heavenly's for you and I and our families and friends? I don't believe so, I believe that what God wants us to remember and to be sipping in daily is that the only True Riches come out of life devoted to Christ Jesus. A life filled with His Spirit with His Will, and His hand in and upon everything we do.
How is that we are so easily distracted and mislead to believing that earthly things could ever be what complete us and make us whole? To be completely honest it's very easy with the culture and world we live in, especially in the USA. We are taught from the youngest of ages that we must strive to be the best so that we can go to the best schools, get the best paying job and then work hard to live out a life of luxury. Now Brothers and Sisters I am not saying that any of these things alone are bad, wealth and riches, and influence and power can all be used by our Lord Jesus Christ to do and change this world. The dilemma that we face is do we follow the worlds standards and leadings or do we follow Christ's.
This is a heavy brew and honestly a rather bold tea leaves that have been steeped for us today. How do we move forward and receive the true riches that God speaks of desiring to shower us with? Here are a few ideas that I feel the Lord placed on my heart.
1. Ask myself why I am pursing that new job, bigger pay day, bigger house, car etc..
2. If the Lord blesses me with this bigger, better _________________ who will I choose to say it belongs to me or the Lord?
3. If the Lord were to shower me with financial riches who would I bless or who would I say blessed me with the monies?
4. Am I pursuing heavenly riches that can be stored for eternity or am I settling for man- made man defined riches that will turn sour and bad like Manna in the desert if it were hoarded?
5. Do I sit ever in the quietness of God and thank Him for the abundant blessings He has already provided me?
6. Have I taken a recent inventory of my stuff and resources and asked God who I could bless with overflowing abundance?
Brothers and Sisters, this Brew is not intended to make you weary it is rather to build up and remind you all of the amazing riches you have simply in your salvation and redemption. Keep this truth close to your heart, soul and lip. My greatest riches were bought and paid for me at a price that I could never have compiled all because Jesus loved me first. Remember that even if you had all the wealth and resources of the world at your disposal it still wouldn't be enough to buy or pay for the debt that was paid in full on the cross for you and me.
Brothers and Sisters, I pray that we will each choose to remember where are riches come from and who is the daily provider of them for all of eternity. May we do right by the Savior who gave up the dominion and power, crowns of gold and jewels to come to earth as a human baby. Then to give his life over to death on the cross, only to rise again and save us all.
It's my prayer for each of you that shared this brew with me today that God pours out great blessings and many heavenly riches for all your days.
It's my prayer for each of you that shared this brew with me today, that God pours out great blessing and many heavenly riches for all your days.
Till next week,
Love,
Tabby
The Voice of Change
"And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The Lord hath not appeared unto thee. And the Lord said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod. And he said, Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it. And the Lord said unto Moses, Put forth thine hand, and take it by the tail. And he put forth his hand, and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand: That they may believe that the Lord God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee. And the Lord said furthermore unto him, Put now thine hand into thy bosom. And he put his hand into his bosom: and when he took it out, behold, his hand was leprous as snow. And he said, Put thine hand into thy bosom again. And he put his hand into his bosom again; and plucked it out of his bosom, and, behold, it was turned again as his other flesh. And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe thee, neither hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will believe the voice of the latter sign. And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land. And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say. And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send. And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart. And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do. And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God." Exodus 4:1-16
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
In order for REAL change to occur and HOPE to prevail someone has to give voice to the current atrocities born out of evil that divide us. It seems as though nothing really ever changes without blood being shed or lives being lost. Pain gives way to progress. Change is not made without sacrifice, even from worse to better.
Someone has to speak truth in order to wake up those who have been lullabied to the nullifying lyrics of hate, discrimination, and ruthlessness. Someone has to sound the trumpet to awaken our nation from this sleep of unjustifiable corruption, chaos, and disparity. Aaron was commissioned by God to be Moses' spokesman. He became a spokesman for his brother, Moses who retreated from speaking out prior to him finding his own voice. In a time when Moses was weak Aaron assisted in holding up Moses's hands. For whenever Moses hands were raised Israel prevailed against it's enemy, the Amalekites. The root word for Amalekites which is Amalek, represents evil at it's purest form. The Amalekites positioned themselves on the side of Pharaoh, a self seeking evil leader of the Egyptian nation. You see the Amalekites had aligned themselves with evil.
Many times we are in a spiritual war with those who have aligned themselves with evil. Those who have aligned themselves with evil go to any length to destroy those who think differently than they do, who act differently than they do, and who look differently than they do. They go against aligning themselves with the very foundation of the truth, the Word of God, which teaches us how to treat our fellow man with the dignity they were born with so that they may live peaceably in a world by the God who created them to be that way.
Brothas and Sistas, we are in an unseen war against evil. We DID NOT ASK FOR THIS WAR. WE DID NOT WAGE THIS WAR. WE DID NOT CREATE THIS WAR. Therefore, it is our responsibility to speak on behalf of our Brothas and Sistas who have lost their lives, confidence, mental peace, and respect for themselves and others to racial biases, injustice, and hate to this war. We must speak on their behalf peacefully (without the violence and the hate they created because we are better than that), precisely, (stick to the issue at hand; do not deviate from the cause), passionately (speaking from the heart out of personal experience, personal loss, and a desire for us and our children to live in a better world) productively (realizing that true change comes about with the presence of results not just lip service), purposefully (having a strategic plan in place that not only calls for change but compels us to change and propels us to be the change) and PRAYERFULLY (pray without ceasing; Prayer is the arm of faith that moves the hand of God!).
Let us hold up our Brothas and Sistas hands and voices. WILL YOU BE THEIR SPOKESPERSON? WILL YOU BE THE VOICE OF CHANGE?
"Nothing paralyzes our lives like the attitude that things can never change. We need to remind ourselves that God can change things. Outlook determines outcome. If we see only the problems, we will be defeated; but if we see the possibilities in the problems, we can have victory." Warren Wiersbe
Prayer of Faith
Lord, we thank you for your many blessings. We are grateful today that every man and woman; boy and girl have been created in your image. We pray that we would accept this great truth that we were all created to be equal by You. No one race is greater than the other. Help us to love unconditionally as you have commanded us to through your word. May we be that voice to those who have been affected by racism. In Jesus name we pray. Amen
Are You Unconditionally Loving Your Spouse?
https://youtu.be/WtVzi7-WrUQ?list=PL4AEFAAF981782D08
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There are far too many of our marriages coming apart for lack of unconditional love. Marriage is a give and take and for some reason we find it hard to love the way we need to; the way Christ loves. We try being someone we are not. We don't share our concerns by way of communication with each other. It is and can be a struggle for a mate to show, express or demonstrate love when the other party does not want to receive it.
Do we get upset with one another? Yes. Do we make mistakes? Yes. Do we hurt one another? Yes. Whether by word or deed. Hey, my Brothas and Sistas, this is marriage but our love should be unconditional only because just as God looked beyond our faults, so should we look beyond each other faults and meet each others needs. Amen.
Minister Antonio Washington
Prayer of Faith
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the blessing of marriage. Help us to unconditionally love one another especially when we are going through trials. May we do as you do and look beyond one another's faults to fulfill each other's needs. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Tea Time With Tabby - "Blessings, What Do We Count As Blessing in our Daily Lives"
Good Morning,
Brothers and Sisters, I pray that you have each been blessed this week with warmth to shield you from the cold and knowing the Love of the Father. If you don't know the Father yet then know this; He brought you here today for a reason. So, it's my prayer that this message will be a blessing to everyone, but especially to those who may be seeking to know Him for the first time.
Lets grab our tea cups and allow the Heavenly Father to fill them with some Good News Brew today. I don't know how many of you reading today have been slammed with winter weather such as where I live here in MD. At the beginning of the winter weather warning a few months back our furnace/heat pump/air handler decided that it was tired of us looking for the blessing of $6,000 to replace it; so it simply died.
Now, the initial cup of tea I choose was one not from God and I would refer to it as a brew of pure panic. Certainly not a brew from Jesus, my Savior. After all He is my Savior and what that means to me is that He will always be looking over me like a good Sheppard looking over His sheep. So I stopped, dropped and began to pray. I was asking the Lord for what I thought I needed; a big check in the mail to fix this before the temperatures dropped below freezing. So I went home to check the mail and no such blessing was in my mailbox. I went in and the temperature in my home was 52 degrees and dropping.
I must admit that this cup of Tea was not tasting like a blessing but rather another frustration and another thing that I just didn't feel I had the resources or strength to deal with. Then in a moment of clarity God spoke to me and asked me, "Why do you continually try to drink from the pot of tea of Self Dependence; rather than the Pot of Tea I am offering, and that is one of Great Blessing. It requires reliance and full trust in Me and Me alone! Now Tabby what can you do in your own strength or your own resources; to resolve this on your own?"
Patiently He waited for my response and then said to me, "Tabby what do you think you should be doing stressing or trusting?" Ouch..... that swallow of Tea didn't go down so sweetly...You see God had this all figured out and I was about to miss out on a bunch of smaller sized blessings due to worrying about receiving a bigger one. Not focusing my faith and trust on my Savior but rather my fleshy feelings.
I am so glad that He is a God that loves me so much that He took the time to ensure that I was reaching for the right tea cup and the right pot of tea in the exact right moment!!! The Tea pot that He was interested in me drinking from was called Blessed but Humble Tea. Yes, I have a special Tea Cup for Humble tea and I imagine we all do in some shape or fashion.
You see God needed to pour me a cup of Humble Tea because I was about to miss out on some incredible blessings that were much greater than a $6,000 check for a new heating system. God poured out the most amazing cup of Blessed Tea I could ever imagine. One of the greatest things was that I got to receive the hands and feet of Jesus from people who love my husband, my family, and me.
I simply asked God what do you want me to do? You know my finances and You know that I can't afford this. God told me to be patient and TRUST Him not my own resources. This is tough for me because I am a Resource Coordinator (my current job position).
Brothers and Sisters, I clearly also have a bit more pride flesh to discard of.So I had to make a choice to do I want to trust God and drink down His Tea of Blessing or do I want to trust me and simply miss out on what He has planned for me. So I not so simply (honestly) stopped, prayed and I asked Him to please fill me with His Blessings and to remind me daily that all I ever need and want is to drink from the Tea Pot that He brewed especially for me for that days moments.
I asked that He remind me that He will always have a specialty blend brewed for me as He does for each of us daily. He then gave me some very simply instructions. He said to me (within my heart), "I have placed a group of people in your life that you call your Home Group; you meet regularly to connect with one another, to meet together regularly and learn about Me, and to share in the struggles and joys of life. I put these people in your life not so you can just fellowship and grow and learn of Me or even so that you can be a blessing to them through me. I put them there so that you too can be blessed by them."
You see Brothers and Sisters, it's much easier for me to drink from the cup of Blessing for other's than to be humble enough to drink from the cup of asking for blessing or help from others. So I chose obedience and I emailed the group and shared what it was that we needed; simply that we needed heaters to keep us warm until we could receive direction from God for where to find the necessary financial blessing for replacing the broken down heating system.
He then quietly whispered to me do you think that maybe I have more blessings for you to ask for? I was confused. At that moment I simply said, "Yes, Father I believe that you always have a brew of Blessing for me and for every person and every part of creation." He then said to me (again in the quiet of my heart), "It's ok to trust Me and use the gifts and talents or resources I have allowed to enter into your life." I sat in my car for a few minutes confused what that drink of Tea meant for me. Then I just picked up my cell phone and saw that I had a message from one of the social media sites. Then it hit me, "Seek out what you need and ask I will deliver."
So still struggling with this brew of humbleness; I asked God what is it that you desire, I felt Him tug at me and say it's ok to use social media to seek my blessings as long as you do so in a way that I get the glory. You are to remain humble and obedient to me and give Me the glory upon receiving the blessings." So I wrote to my friends on my Social Media asking for heaters. I then also went to the Insta -Pray App and simply asked God's blessing over my situation. I took my hands off the Tea pot and held tightly to the cup of humility that He was so patiently trying to fill me with.
I would like to now share with you how absolutely Faithful our God is when we simply get out of His way and really and truly take our hands off whatever the circumstances are and let Him be God; let Him be our Source of Strength and our Source of every brew of Tea we need and the Blessing that will pour from it EVERYTIME we Choose HIM FIRST, and not ourselves or the temptation of our flesh. Here is how Jesus came to my rescue this time in this season:
Within 5 minutes I was in Lowes looking for heaters and the Lowes employee that was helping me looked at his computer with me for 30 minutes calling stores in the region trying to find me a heater. No he didn't find me one but his service to me was simply humbling.I called my husband from the car and said that I had one last place to check and that was a local hardware store and I shared what God had put on my heart . He said he had just received a call from a friend from church that simply felt led to call him. His name was Larry and said he didn't know why he called. God knew why Larry was to call it was because he had a heater for us.
Remember I had emailed my home group? Almost every member had emailed me back with either offers of heaters, or places to stay or extra blankets.Remember how I used social media to ask for help? More friends than I could count either were praying for us or making offers of heaters, and even a few light hearted jokes like, "I wish I could send the warmth from sunny Florida directly to you."
These offers continued through the weekend. God blessed us with so many offers for heaters we had to start say thank you but we are already abundantly Blessed. This continued at church on Sunday. Then one last overly abundant blessing came Sunday afternoon when we finally did the dreaded taxes. Do you want to guess what our return will be? It will be almost to the penny exactly what we were quoted to have the full heating and cooling system replaced; with a little extra for a blessing that we can use to bless someone else.
Let me tell you that we don't serve a God of just rules and one who only has do's and don'ts but we serve a living God who desires to fill us each up with a cup of His Special Brew of blessings daily. It's His desire to do this every day so much so that our Tea Cups of "Blessing Brew" can be spilled or poured out and shared with others. We may be doing this in an obvious way if that is what God puts on your heart. Or it may be that we spill a drop here or there that will be the nourishment for a seed God has had either you or someone else deposit into someone's life.
Brothers and Sisters, I pray that this week you and I will keep our Tea Cups available for God to pour into them blessings for our lives and blessing for the lives of those we love around us, those we may even dislike and even those around us that are strangers that we will encounter. Let us each seek ways to be the Good Samaritan, but to also be open to being the "man" who was left for dead on side of the road that the Samaritan couldn't leave to suffer alone. He was compelled by God to share his brew of compassion and blessing.Here are few verses that God has placed on my heart to be reminded of how He uses blessings in and through our lives:
Deuteronomy 28:1-3-"If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God: You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country."
Joshua 23:14-14 “Now I am about to go the way of all the earth. You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the Lord your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one has failed."
1 Chronicles 17:19-19 "Lord, for the sake of your servant and according to your will, you have done this great thing and made known all these great promises."
Psalm 106:12-12 "Then they believed his promisesand sang his praise."
Hebrews 11:1" Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."
Psalm 132:15-15 "I will bless her with abundant provisions;her poor I will satisfy with food."
Psalm 25[-Of David -"In you, Lord my God, I put my trust."
Brothas and Sistas, I hope and pray that this last verse Psalm 25:1, "In you Lord my God I put my trust." I pray that this is the place you will run to: should you feel overwhelmed or lost or find yourself in a place of need or rescue or repentance or redemption... Whatever it is that you need seek the Lord and He will reveal Himself to your heart. The Lord our God is mighty to save and He always has the brew for your circumstance or situation, need, or prayer ready to be poured into your Tea Cup no matter the condition of it.
Stay warm and blessed and know that God the Father not only has blessings for you to share with others but also for you to be blessed with in your time of need. Humble yourself and receive them for they are a sweet sweet brew!!
Love and Prayers,
Tabby
Our First Blog Entry
Change Your Mentality
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." Romans 8:37
Good morning Brothas and Sistas,
There are times when we can become weary from all that Satan sends our way to try to defeat us. During these times we are tempted to walk around with a defeated mentality but the bible tells us in Rom. 8:37 that,"We are more than conquerors. "I like that phrase "more than", it indicates a quantifier meaning greater in size, amount, extent, or degree.
Brothas and Sistas, there is no situation that we don't stand to come out on top. There is positive in even the seemingly most negative situation because we all acquire growth from it. Everything within God's classroom is a teachable moment for us all.
We grow most and experience His power most in the hard places. The songwriter says,"If I never had a problem I would have never known that my God could solve them." That is so profoundly true.
Brothas snd Sistas, you may just need to change your mentality. "I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal (to make like new : restore to freshness, vigor, or perfection) of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
It's all based on your perspective. Never look at your past failures or current situation as a tragedy because God is in it and it is all good. We have the victory in all things through Him. Praise His wonderful name.
Prayer Response:
Lord I thank you...I feel so much better when I come to you with all my cares, my issues; just all my stuff. You say in your word, in all ways submit to you and you will make my paths straight. (Proverbs 3:6) It's like a heavy weight lifted off my chest.
Lord, I love you and I thank you for being the God of my strength, my personal bravery, and my invincible army. There is none like you Lord!! None like you, I thank you and praise your holy name." I love the Lord, for he heard my voice, he heard my cry for mercy because he turned his ear to me. I will call on him as long as I live." Ps 116:1-2 Now Lord, please touch our Brothas and Sistas hearts so that they may study your great word and be renewed by it. Help them to change their mentality as they soak in the presence of your life changing, victorious word. Amen
Love,
Denise
