THE HUSBAND OF GOD'S DESIGN - Part III

THE HUSBAND OF GOD’S DESIGN – Part III

A Christian brother from South Africa submitted this question to me. “WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A MAN IN A WOMAN'S LIFE?”  It is imperative that we recognize that THE CHRISTIAN FAMILY is the BASIC BUILDING BLOCK of THE KINGDOM OF GOD.  As such, we must carefully attend to the overall health and happiness of our MARRIAGES and our FAMILIES.  To briefly recap, on DAY ONE and DAY TWO of this devotional series, we explored the following:

Kingdom Principle Number One:
FIRST AND FOREMOST, BE CENTERED IN CHRIST.

Kingdom Principle Number Two:
LET LOVE BE YOUR OPERATING PRINCIPLE.

Kingdom Principle Number Three:
BE WISE, BE FOCUSED, BE STRATEGIC, AND BE GOAL-ORIENTED.

Kingdom Principle Number Four:
BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT.

Kingdom Principle Number Five:
SATURATE YOUR PALACE WITH PRAYER AND PRAISE.

Kingdom Principle Number Six:
AS A MAN, NEVER FEAR MUTUAL SUBMISSION.

Kingdom Principle Number Seven:
LOVE YOUR WIFE AS CHRIST LOVES HIS CHURCH.

Today, we culminate this devotional series with three powerful principles.

Kingdom Principle Number Eight:
CHERISH YOUR WIFE AND NURTURE AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP.
Christ’s requirement that husbands “love their wives as their own bodies” is visibly manifested whenever we NOURISH and CHERISH our wives in the same way that JESUS loves and nurtures His own bride, THE CHURCH.  Let there be no doubt: LOVE IS A VERB.  True love is far more than an emotion.  LOVE IS A SPIRIT…because GOD IS LOVE. (I John 4:8)  HE matures, motivates and mobilizes us to become PROACTIVE PARTNERS in the covenantal grace of marriage.

The question is begged: ‘On a practical level, HOW do we cherish and nurture our wives?’  In other words, WHAT DOES THAT CALIBER OF LOVE LOOK LIKE (on a daily basis) and how is it MADE REAL in our nuptial relationships?

The answer is quite simple.  Christ’s foundational principle (commonly called THE GOLDEN RULE) must be freely and fully operational within the marriage covenant.  “As ye would that [your spouse] should do to you, do ye also to [her/him] likewise.” (Luke 6:31)  MUTUAL RESPECT is a necessary prerequisite for fulfilling Christ’s marital mandate.  MUTUAL TRUST is another important key.  MUTUAL SERVICE is an indispensable component.  When these three are applied systematically and concomitantly, the inevitable result is MUTUAL AFFECTION AND UNFETTERED INTIMACY.

Now hear this: There can be no bonafide or fulfilling intimacy in the presence of harsh and hateful spirits.  And our communication is a direct and clear reflection of our spirits.  It bears repetition: There can be no bonafide or fulfilling intimacy in the presence of harsh and hateful spirits.  My fellow husbands, whenever we genuinely CHERISH and NURTURE of our wives, we fully mobilize “the fruit of the Spirit” within the marriage covenant: “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, [and] temperance.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

Indeed, marriage is a mystical spiritual union, an awesome phenomenon whereby TWO BECOME ONE.  When Adam first laid his eyes on Eve, he declared “This is now BONE OF MY BONES, and FLESH OF MY FLESH.” (Genesis 2:23)  In recognition of the presence of their Creator and in realization of the spiritual significance of their marital covenant, our foreparents were easily enabled to be “naked…and not ashamed.” (Genesis 2:25)  Truthfully, there is no other relationship on earth that can create or sustain this uncommon and unique level of mutual trust, respect, communication and intimacy.

Kingdom Principle Number Nine:
LEAVE YOUR BIRTH-HOME (FULLY)…AND CLEAVE TO YOUR WIFE.
In order to sustain a scriptural and successful marriage, it is necessary to depart and detach one’s self from home.  Think about it.  Abram could not become “Abraham” or realize his divine purpose and destiny within the womb of his birth-home. (Genesis 12:1-4)  Neither could Jesus walk in the fullness of his earthly mission and ministry within the confines of his birth-home.  Jesus reported that “a prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house.” (Matthew 13:57)

Of course, common sense and wisdom dictate that leaving home is not designed to diminish respect and regard for one’s parents or siblings.  Any inclination in this direction is divisive and non-scriptural.  The practical meaning of ‘leaving’ is merely positioning your marriage in its rightful place of priority.  Therefore, the MARRIAGE COVENANT demands a LEAVING (FROM THE BIRTH-HOME) AND A CLEAVING (TO THE WIFE).

“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)

“But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER, AND CLEAVE TO HIS WIFE; and they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.” (Mark 10:6-8)

It goes without saying that we husbands must take care of and provide for our wives and families.  To wit, our God-given assignment is to be both HOUSEHOLD PROVIDER and FAMILY PRIEST.  However, WE CAN ONLY GROW UP AND DEVELOP INTO THIS DIVINELY DESTINED ROLE in absentia from our parents.  Indeed, it is impossible for us to become MEN if we hold steadfastly to our mother’s aprons or to our father’s coat tails.  Regard them; yes.  Respect them; no doubt.  But move-out and move-on to fulfill the phenomenal destiny that GOD has in store for you and your spouse.

Kingdom Principle Number Ten:
DISCOVER THE THREE-DIMENSIONAL UNION AND POWER OF UNITY.
Fundamentally, THREE TIERS OF UNION comprise the marriage covenant.  These are distinctive covenant bonds like none other – SPIRITUAL, EMOTIONAL and PHYSICAL BONDS OF LOVE.  Genuine and enduring UNITY takes place when all three are actualized simultaneously.  This mystical ‘joining together’ of husband and wife is of divine origin.  The Word of God confirms this: “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be JOINED UNTO HIS WIFE, and THEY TWO SHALL BE ONE FLESH.” (Ephesians 5:31)

On a practical note, WE MUST MAKE IT HAPPEN!  Proactive partnership in marriage means that both spouses work diligently (day and night) to achieve all of God’s purposes.  Remember: THE FAMILY is the BASIC BUILDING BLOCK of the KINGDOM OF GOD.  As such, our marriages and our families potentially become viable manifestations and visible representations of Heaven-on-Earth.  There is an supernatural power that is released from such loving and lasting unions that will save our children and bless every generation that follows.  Bottom-line: ARE WE FULLY COOPERATING WITH GOD’S PLAN AND PURPOSE IN THE DAILY EXECUTION OF OUR MARRIAGE COVENANT?

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE HUSBAND OF GOD'S DESIGN - Part II

THE HUSBAND OF GOD’S DESIGN – Part II

A gentleman from South Africa submitted this question to me. “WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A MAN IN A WOMAN'S LIFE?”  It is imperative to recognize that THE CHRISTIAN FAMILY if the basic building block in THE KINGDOM OF GOD.  To briefly recap, we previously explored the following principles:

Kingdom Principle Number One: 
FIRST AND FOREMOST, BE CENTERED IN CHRIST.

Kingdom Principle Number Two: 
LET LOVE BE YOUR OPERATING PRINCIPLE.

Kingdom Principle Number Three: 
BE WISE, BE FOCUSED, BE STRATEGIC, AND BE GOAL-ORIENTED.

On DAY TWO, we move forward with four additional principles.

Kingdom Principle Number Four: 
BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT.

In order to maximize our capacity to be THE HUSBAND OF GOD’S DESIGN, we must proactively maintain a positive relationship with Christ.  To accomplish this, it is imperative that we be “filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18)  This intimate indwelling of the Holy Spirit, which Christ calls “the spirit of truth,” edifies believers through daily direction and comfort, while empowering believers for Kingdom service. (John 14:16-17 and Acts 1:8)  The Apostle Paul stated that the Holy Spirit fills us “with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.” (Colossians 1:9)  In a word, HE imparts SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT (heightened awareness and sensitivity regarding ourselves, others, relative to the plans and purposes of God), which is indispensable to the fulfillment of the man’s matrimonial role as an effective husband and family priest.

Kingdom Principle Number Five: 
SATURATE YOUR PALACE WITH PRAYER AND PRAISE.

It has often been said that “the home is a man’s castle.”  This saying implies a ‘kingly approach’ to family matters.  While Christ indeed confirms that believers are “kings and priests,” whenever we approach our role as husbands with KINGLY ATTITUDES AND AUTHORITY, we miss out on opportunities to serve and edify our spouses. (Revelation 1:6)  Since wives are not our pawns or our property, instead of using a ‘castle metaphor’ to describe the home, I think of the home as a PALACE in which ALL PARTIES ARE DESERVING BENEFICIARIES OF ROYAL TREATMENT.  Whenever I am tempted to assume ‘kingly authority,’ I have discovered that the immediate pursuit of PRAYER AND PRAISE totally changes the atmosphere…by TOTALLY CHANGING MY PERSPECTIVE.  In our own home, we have a room that is devoted solely to family prayer.  It is necessary that husbands and wives pray together consistently, and that they also spend quality prayer time with their children.  Of course, WORD STUDY is an integral component of our ongoing connection with Christ.  These spiritual fundamentals will totally saturation of our palace with the presence and power of Christ.

Kingdom Principle Number Six: 
AS A MAN, NEVER FEAR MUTUAL SUBMISSION.

Many Christian men are quick to recite Ephesians 5:22, which requires wives to submit to their husbands.  However, it is of vital importance to read and incorporate the truth of the verse that comes right before it (Ephesians 5:21), which says “submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.”  This scripture verse clearly mandates MUTUAL SUBMISSION.  If we men MUST consider ourselves as KINGS, then our spouses are QUEENS.  And since we husbands are scripturally designated as family priests, we must resist the impulse to become “lords over God’s heritage.” (I Peter 5:3)  The process of mutual submission always involves what I call THE MINISTRY OF LISTENING.  God gave us two ears and only one mouth.  The implication is that we should LISTEN…at least twice as much as we speak.  When we exercise SELF-DISCIPLINE, which is one of the fruit of the Spirit, we will learn to HEAR THE HEARTS of our spouses. (Galatians 5:23)  We must actively participate in the maintenance of our family dwelling place.  One of the greatest lessons I have learned as a husband is SERVING MY WIFE.  There are a host of benefits that accrue from willing and cheerful service.  One of the more obvious is the JOY that this brings to the wife, which increases the JOY that the wife displays while attending to her husband’s needs and desires.  Mutual submission might be culturally abhorrent to some, but it is indeed the tone and tenor of the gospel.  Remember this: Mutual submission is much easier when both partners submit (first) to JESUS CHRIST.  After all, HE is a key partner in the marriage covenant; so don’t forget to consciously and conscientiously include HIM.

Kingdom Principle Number Seven: 
LOVE YOUR WIFE AS CHRIST LOVES HIS CHURCH.

This is a challenging requirement for all of us since it seems virtually impossible to emulate either the quality or quantity of divine love.  Think about it.  God-in-Christ had sufficient love to reconcile the entire world to Himself. (II Corinthians 5:19)  This constituted an act of ABSOLUTE SACRIFICE – a free and full offering of His life for the benefit of man’s salvation.  Since the Word commands husbands to love wives in a similar manner, what should be our practical response?  Just like Christ, we must “SANCTIFY” our marital covenant (and its participants) via THE WORD.  And we must love our wives, just as much as we cherish our own lives and bodies. (Ephesians 5:25-29)  In practical terms, this means that the husband is the COVERING, DEFENDER and PROTECTOR of the wife.  This also means that the husband is PROVIDER-IN-CHIEF.  We must be ready, able and willing to provide for THE TOTAL NEEDS OF OUR FAMILIES: spiritually, emotionally and financially.  This requires the utmost in determination, diligence, patience and persistence.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE HUSBAND OF GOD'S DESIGN - Part I

THE HUSBAND OF GOD’S DESIGN – Part I

A few readers have asked me to repeat this devotional series, so here goes.  Last year, a Christian gentleman from South Africa submitted this question: “GREETINGS MAN OF GOD, PLEASE HELP ME HERE...WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A MAN IN A WOMAN’S LIFE?”  Since the Word has so much to say on this matter, it is an excellent topic for a devotional series. 

I am cognizant of the fact that not all men are not married.  Nevertheless, for Christian men, the process of dating and courtship should have one end-goal: to discover the woman of God’s choice and to enter into the mutually binding covenant relationship of marriage.  Therefore, my general response to this question is that all men must strive diligently to become THE HUSBAND OF GOD’S DESIGN.  During the next three days, let’s explore scriptural specifics, utilizing St. Paul’s admonitions to the Church of Ephesus as our primary text:

Ephesians 5:1-2;15-33
1 Be ye therefore FOLLOWERS OF GOD, AS DEAR CHILDREN;
2 And WALK IN LOVE, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour.
15 See then that ye WALK CIRCUMSPECTLY, not as fools, but AS WISE,
16 REDEEMING THE TIME, because the days are evil.
17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but UNDERSTANDING WHAT THE WILL OF THE LORD IS.
18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT;
19 SPEAKING TO YOURSELVES IN PSALMS AND HYMNS AND SPIRITUAL SONGS, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
20 GIVING THANKS ALWAYS FOR ALL THINGS unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
21 SUBMITTING YOURSELVES ONE TO ANOTHER in the fear of God.
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23 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.
24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.
25 HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES, EVEN AS CHRIST ALSO LOVED THE CHURCH, AND GAVE HIMSELF FOR IT;
26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
27 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.
28 So ought MEN TO LOVE THEIR WIVES AS THEIR OWN BODIES. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but NOURISHETH AND CHERISHETH IT, even as the Lord the church:
30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
31 For this cause shall a man LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER, AND SHALL BE JOINED UNTO HIS WIFE, and they TWO SHALL BE ONE FLESH.
32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so LOVE HIS WIFE EVEN AS HIMSELF; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

To gain broader insight into THE HUSBAND’S GOD-GIVEN AND GOD-DESIGNED ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES, our series will address the following Kingdom Principles:

DAY ONE
Kingdom Principle Number One: FIRST AND FOREMOST, BE CENTERED IN CHRIST.
Kingdom Principle Number Two: LET LOVE BE YOUR OPERATING PRINCIPLE.
Kingdom Principle Number Three: BE WISE, BE FOCUSED, BE STRATEGIC AND BE GOAL-ORIENTED.

DAY TWO
Kingdom Principle Number Four: BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT.
Kingdom Principle Number Five: SATURATE YOUR PALACE WITH PRAYER AND PRAISE.
Kingdom Principle Number Six: AS A MAN, NEVER FEAR MUTUAL SUBMISSION.
Kingdom Principle Number Seven: LOVE YOUR WIFE AS CHRIST LOVES HIS CHURCH.

DAY THREE
Kingdom Principle Number Eight: CHERISH YOUR WIFE AND NURTURE AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP.
Kingdom Principle Number Nine: LEAVE YOUR BIRTH-HOME (FULLY) AND CLEAVE TO YOUR WIFE.
Kingdom Principle Number Ten: DISCOVER THE THREE-DIMENSIONAL UNION AND POWER OF UNITY.

Please pardon the length of this initial devotional for this very important series.  It is necessary to include our entire scriptural text, as well as a series overview.  Let’s begin!

Kingdom Principle Number One: FIRST AND FOREMOST, BE CENTERED IN CHRIST.  We are mandated to walk daily before God “as dear children.” (Ephesians 5:1)  The implications are clear.  First of all, we must enter into a sincere and enduring covenant relationship with Christ.  It is imperative that both partners to the marriage be fully engaged in A DUAL COVENANT RELATIONSHIP, both WITH CHRIST (who sanctifies, guides, blesses and balances the marriage union), and obviously WITH ONE ANOTHER.  Since marriage is GOD-ORDAINED, it must be GOD-ORDERED, in both the INITIATION-PHASE and the ACTUALIZATION-PHASE of the relationship.

The question is begged: “Can two walk together except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3)  Hence, it is a foolish and disastrous notion to expect marital success when partners are “unequally yoked,” and thus out of lock-step with Christ (and each other) in the fulfillment of the nuptial covenant.  In St. Paul’s words, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?  And what communion hath light with darkness?” (II Corinthians 6:14)  To even enter into a time of courtship with an unbeliever is dangerous and disastrous.  Two questions are begged: “WHY? And to what end?”  We must allow any potential partner to independently develop their relationship with Christ.  This allows assurance that their motives for pursuing a relationship with the Lord will have nothing to do with entering into a marriage with a Christian.  WISDOM is in order, as well as PERSONAL DISCIPLINE.  Both should be the object of earnest prayer, fasting and Word study.

Kingdom Principle Number Two: LET LOVE BE YOUR OPERATING PRINCIPLE.  Since GOD is love (I John 4:8), love must epitomize our attitudes and actions.  Refer to I Corinthians, chapter 13, for a ‘snapshot’ of true-love-in-action.  The Message Bible translation is marvelous.  It says, “Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have. Love doesn’t strut, doesn’t have a swelled head, isn’t always ‘me first,’ doesn’t fly off the handle, doesn’t keep score of the sins of others, doesn’t revel when others grovel, takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, puts up with anything, trusts God always, always looks for the best, never looks back, but keeps going to the end.”  WOW!  If we can live with that caliber of loving conscientiousness regarding our attitudes toward (and our treatment of) our wives, than an overflowing measure of family success will be reserved for us.

Kingdom Principle Number Three: BE WISE, BE FOCUSED, BE STRATEGIC AND BE GOAL-ORIENTED.  In the words of the Apostle James, “…the WISDOM that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17)  To wit, HUSBANDS MUST SYSTEMATICALLY PURSUE HEAVENLY WISDOM.  We must be WISE ENOUGH, FOCUSED ENOUGH, STRATEGIC ENOUGH and GOAL-ORIENTED ENOUGH so that OUR WIVES WILL WANT TO FOLLOW US.  There is nothing more tiring and more pathetic than a leader (of any stripe) who has to constantly announce, “I AM THE BOSS!”  Husbands must always be in possession of AN EFFECTIVE ACTION PLAN and we must maintain sufficient grit and determination to execute that plan – with integrity, sensitivity and consistency.

Bottom-line: THERE SHOULD BE SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT THE FAMILY LEADER THAT WARRANTS AND ATTRACTS HEARTFELT HONOR!  Our wives will then have respect for us as MEN OF GOD, in the literal sense of that phrase.  In the absence of such mutual respect, marriages can deteriorate into “envying and strife [which generates] confusion and every evil work.” (James 3:16)  REAL MEN never have to announce or underscore their status.  Our WORK ETHIC (naturally, emotionally, relationally, spiritually) should speak clearly for us.  Stay tuned…more to come tomorrow!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

BE STILL...

BE STILL…

I feel impressed to share this simple-but-significant RHEMA with someone who absolutely needs to hear it.  YOU WILL KNOW if you are the one because it will resonate powerfully within your spirit.

“BE STILL…AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD…” 
----Psalm 46:10a

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE MILK OF HUMAN KINDNESS

THE MILK OF HUMAN KINDNESS

Kindness is incredibly nurturing and sustaining.  As such, it is a fundamental and indispensable human need.  In one of William Shakespeare’s well known plays, “Macbeth,” he writes about “the milk of human kindness.”  Indeed, kindness is life-giving food for every God-created soul.  In truth, mutual kindness is such an extraordinary gift – so blessed, so beneficial, so necessary – that no one can maintain genuine peace of mind or find lasting fulfillment in the absence of it.

The Apostle Paul admonished the Church of Ephesus, and by extension all future generations of Christians, “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32)  If the entire world, especially those who profess relationships with Christ, would pause one moment BEFORE WE SPEAK to make sure that our words are a positive source of healing and hope (not a weapon of anger or resentment), lasting peace among individuals, groups and nations would be much easier to achieve.

Before Belinda and I married, we had what I refer to as “THE TALK.”  We shared our life stories – the good, the bad, the ugly – and then we made what is perhaps the most important pledge that can undergird the divine covenant of marriage.  On that day, we vowed that, no matter what, we would treat each other with MUTUAL RESPECT and KINDNESS.  It is an innate need – so fundamental and so powerful that true kindness even trumps human sexuality.  Think about it.  

Allow me to be transparent.  It is not always easy to keep our agreement.  Marriage is hard work, no matter what anyone says.  Whenever marriages encounter moments of frustration, upset, grief, anger, or disappointment, it is so easy to revert to the carnality and pride that becomes the opening pitch in ‘THE BLAME GAME.’  That is why self-control is an indispensable component of “the fruit of the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

Question: Who do YOU AND I need to forgive…to offer acceptance and kindness…before the sun sets today?

Question: Whose flaws, failures, foibles and fiascoes do YOU AND I need to cover with love, instead of exposing to our pride, anger, rejection, or indifference?

The Apostle Peter said it so eloquently and succinctly: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins.” (I Peter 4:8, NIV)  In the Pauline epistles, we learn that true believers refuse to keep an active accounting of the wrongdoings of others.  Quite the contrary; we who are under the covenant of love somehow learn to bear all things, believe all things, hope all things and endure all things. (I Corinthians, chapter 13)

In your quest to exemplify kindness, prayerfully consider the following gems of wisdom: 

“Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.”  -Mark Twain

“Constant kindness can accomplish much.  As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate.”  -Albert Schweitzer

“Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight.  Extend to them all the care, kindness and understanding you can muster, and do it with no thought of any reward.  Your life will never be the same again.”  -Og Mandino

My own writing today has motivated me to initiate proactive adjustments in attitude and actions.  I refuse to judge.  I will not hold on to the past.  I will forgive.  I will love.  I will be kind.  I will strive – with all my body, soul and spirit – to become more and more like Jesus Christ.  Perhaps, you and I can humbly approach the throne of God with this mutual prayer: “Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, we ask for Your forgiveness and for a lasting endowment of Your very essence – LOVE – so that we may recognize our own faults and sins and so that we may be genuinely loving, forgiving, open and kind to others.  We ask all in the name of Jesus Christ.  Amen.”

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

PERSPICACITY

PERSPICACITY

It is an uncommon word, but it is vitally important.  According to Dictionary.com, “PERSPICACITY” is “keenness of mental perception and understanding.”  As such, it is synonymous with vision, insight and discernment.  Question: WHAT are you seeing – and through WHICH LENS and with WHAT LEVEL OF FOCUS are you perceiving it?

Shortly after the miracle of the feeding of 5,000 men and their families, Jesus encountered a blind man in Bethsaida.  Of course, the people accompanying this man wanted Jesus to pray, touch and heal him.  However, his healing process was entirely unique and unexpected.  Mark records that Jesus applied “spit” (mixed with dirt) onto the blind man’s eyes.  Then he interviewed the man about his ability to see.  His response was “I see men as trees, walking.”

Jesus was not deterred from his healing mission by this initial limited restoration of sight.  “He put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every man clearly.” (Mark 8:22-25)  Contemporary application?  While all believers have attained to salvation “by grace…through faith,” many have not yet received clear vision concerning their NEXT STEPS IN THE KINGDOM. (Ephesians 2:8) 

The problem?  Whenever we lack clear vision, we are prone to wandering in circles, much like the Israelites did during their 40-year Sinai Peninsula sojourn to the Promised Land.

Nevertheless, we already have all the necessary tools we need to fully embrace KINGDOM PERSPICACITY.  Firstly, we must “look up,” that is we must seek and practice the presence of God until we receive a complete healing.  Continual prayer is mission critical to manifesting and sustaining the presence of the Lord. (I Thessalonians 5:17)  Secondly, we must rely on His Word and His Holy Spirit for life-wisdom, which includes specific insights and daily direction. (II Timothy 2:15 and John 14:26)  Thirdly, we must embrace, engage and fellowship with other believers who are firmly established in the faith. (Acts 2:46-47 and Hebrews 10:25)

We must pay special attention to our spiritual diet.  For whenever our spiritual intake is insubstantial, faithless, or erroneous, our spiritual vision is challenged, undernourished and underdeveloped.  Friend, now is the time to transition to your higher level of awareness and acuity via a positive and powerful connection with Christ.  Ask God to help you to see yourself through HIS EYES, i.e. to see yourself as HE sees you.  Allow God to show you something that is larger and grander than yourself. 

One of my missions mentors, John Haggai, wrote “Dare to see a vision that is so large that it is doomed to failure, lest God be in it!”  KINGDOM PERSPICACITY!  Heavenly revelation secures a steadfast VISION regarding both your Kingdom mission and God’s intentional design for the relationships He has sown within your sphere of influence.  Are you courageous and tenacious enough? (Matthew 10:16)  Think about it.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

WAKE UP!

WAKE UP!

Some years ago, there was an unforgettable horse named Sunday Silence.  The back story is that Sunday Silence should have been dead – twice.  As a young colt, Sunday Silence contracted a deadly case of colic.  Colts with colic only rarely survive.  Sunday Silence got colic as colt, yet he survived.

Due to his prior medical condition, Sunday Silence was put up for sale at two separate auctions.  However, no one wanted to purchase a horse that had colic or such an unsightly appearance.  On top of his horrific health issues, Sunday Silence was almost killed when the driver of his trailer had a heart attack which caused a terrible traffic accident.  Bottom-line: Sunday Silence was an unwanted and unmarketable horse.

Eventually, a man named Charles Widdingham bought Sunday Silence (sight unseen) for $25,000 because everything he had heard suggested to him that Sunday Silence was a tough horse, a survivor.  At the age of 76, Charles was the oldest trainer to ever bring a horse to The Kentucky Derby, but he entered that prestigious event anyway, only to become the brunt of everybody’s jokes.

Even the jockey he had chosen, Pat Valenzuela, was in a semi-broken condition.  He had only recently been rehabilitated from drug abuse.  So the odds were heavily stacked against them.  Most people would not have wagered one dollar on that horse, his rider, or his trainer.

Nevertheless, Charles and Pat had faith and they trained Sunday Silence rigorously.  They worked around the clock to get him ready for the toughest race in the world.  Of course, they were surrounded by million dollar horses with wealthy owners, possessing deep financial pockets.  And they were categorically dismissed, as an old fool, a young punk drunk and a sickly unsightly horse.

The day of The Kentucky Derby finally arrived.  When the gun sounded and the horses bolted out of their gates, a pitiful looking Sunday Silence (at first) wobbled back and forth, appearing to be completely confused and out of place.  But all those smiling spectators and gloating horse owners overlooked one important fact: Sunday Silence had heart.

Then, all of a sudden, something strange and unprecedented occurred.  For reasons unknown to his startled critics, Sunday Silence seemed to WAKE UP – and he raced down the track like a champion thoroughbred.  It seemed that he realized ‘I’m in a big race…and I want to win!’  Sunday Silence shot off like a bolt of lightning, passed all of his ungulate competitors, and won The Kentucky Derby that day – all because he had heart.

Perhaps, you can relate to Sunday Silence.  Others might have grossly underestimated your worth or occasionally devalued your contribution.  Please do not allow your dream to be deterred, deferred, or denied by their disapproving glances or negative commentary.  My friend, you know better.  You are far MORE than you and your circumstances appear to be…so Wake up!  Put your entire being (body, mind and spirit) into the unique assignment for which only YOU been positioned on this planet.  Yes, there is nobody else exactly like you, and, no, it is definitely not too late to win!  So right now, start seeing what GOD had in mind for you, long before the foundation of the world.  Write it down, meditate on it, plan it and act upon it.  Then evaluate your progress, tweak your strategy, and try (again and again and again) until you surpass your dream.

It tickles me that Sunday Silence silenced all of his adversaries without speaking one blessed word.  His bold actions were the loudest and clearest expression of his winning destiny.  YOU have far more value and capability than Sunday Silence.  WAKE UP, stand up and get moving.  Ask GOD for the faith, wisdom, power, courage and tenacity that will put your life into overdrive…then just do it!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

LET'S BUILD A BRIDGE

LET’S BUILD A BRIDGE

How Belinda and I love spending quality time with our grandchildren!  Their frequent visits are sheer delight.  Approximately two years ago, after Tea Party time, our six-year-old Sydney asked me to draw a picture with her.  I agreed, but actually we did much more communicating and observing than drawing.  Our conversation went something like this:

ME: O.K., Sydney, what would you like to draw?

SYDNEY: Islands!

ME: Islands?  Why islands?

SYDNEY: I got a book from the library.  Lots and lots of pictures of islands!

[Sydney went to work, quickly creating her island drawing.  I was pleased and proud of her results].

ME: That’s a gorgeous picture, Sydney!  Great job!

[She paused for a moment, inspecting her picture with a bright smile; her next comment completely surprised me].

SYDNEY: But people can’t get off.  They’re stuck!

ME: I see.  What could we do about that?  Hmm….perhaps we can draw a boat right there, next to your island.

SYDNEY: No Pop-Pop…a bridge!  A bridge is better!

ME: Why is that, Sydney?

SYDNEY: We can get on and off whenever we want.   Let’s build a bridge!

Given Sydney’s tender age and the fact that she was a first grader, our granddaughter’s insight both floored and fascinated me.  In fact, a bridge would be a far better solution for the people on her imaginary island, much more practical than the boat I had originally suggested.  If a ferry would be their only means of egress, the island residents would always be limited to arbitrary timetables and travel conditions set up by others.  On the other hand, a bridge would allow them autonomy and freedom, i.e. the ability to come and go at will.  In Sydney’s simple words, “A BRIDGE IS BETTER!”

Our playtime revealed an intriguing metaphor for life.  Symbolically speaking, many prefer constructing FERRIES for personal relationships.  Why?  'Relationship ferries' grant us absolute control over the ‘how’ and ‘when’ of our interactions with others.  Bottom-line: Far too many of us have the unfortunate tendency to become ‘control freaks’ in the lives of others, demanding that everyone dance to ‘OUR TUNE’ – in a melody, cadence and orchestration of our choosing.  But ferries seldom achieve healthy relationships; bridges are infinitely better.

Jesus Christ said “Blessed are the peace makers [the bridge builders], for they shall be called the children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)  So try hard to avoid becoming an island.  To the very best of your ability, stay connected.  However, should you ever find yourself in isolated circumstances (due to your own actions or the choices of others), then simply build a bridge.  The gospel according to young Sydney: “A BRIDGE IS BETTER!”

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

SPIRITUAL GESTATION

SPIRITUAL GESTATION

There are those days – when it FEELS like God is taking so L-O-N-G to do whatever it is that He has planned and purposed for our lives.  Do I have any witnesses up in here?  [Smiling…and using my most ‘profound’ preacher-voice!]  Seriously though, at times GOD SEEMS awfully slow.  During such existential moments, it is wise to take the long view, i.e. to look backward at His mercy and to gaze ahead with earnest expectation of manifested future grace.

Every natural mother can experientially identify with God’s growth and developmental process.  I call it SPIRITUAL GESTATION.  My life-verse of scripture is Philippians 1:6 which says “Being confident of this very thing, that HE which hath begun a good work in YOU will perform it until the day of JESUS CHRIST.”  Every time I read or hear this simple truth, it inspires and encourages.

God is always up to something, but it is imperative that we allow Him sufficient SPACE and TIME; not that HE NEEDS more SPACE and TIME, because God is omnipotent and operates in the eternal now.  As such, HE can accomplish any and all things – instantaneously.  However, WE need to experience the operational parameters and growth possibilities of TIME and SPACE in order to perceive, receive, value and activate our divine destiny.  Think about that.  This apparent delay does not nullify our faith; rather, it affirms HIS DIVINE PROCESS.

In the natural process of human reproduction, there is a GESTATION PERIOD of 266 days (just 8 days short of 9 months).  By contrast, giraffes take 450 days for gestation; elephants take 645 days.  It occurs to me that GOD accomplishes so much more (with US) in a much shorter frame of time.  Human gestation is the necessary prerequisite and opportunity for full embryonic development.

The fertilized egg becomes a fetus, which has BURIED WITHIN IT, if you will, ALL of the physical characteristics that pertain to human life.  Mind you, it does not LOOK very human at the onset!  It is important to take note of that.  For disguised within the apparently grotesque genesis of an embryo (whether natural or spiritual) is a definitive RHEMA WORD, which is revealed in the writings of the Apostle Peter: “According to his divine power [HE] has given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of HIM that has called us to glory and virtue.” (II Peter 1:3) Because we believers are actually DEVELOPING SPIRITUAL EMBRYOS of the SEED-OF-THE-WORD, we already have within ALL that GOD has designed and destined to bless our lives and to empower us to become blessings to others!

Spiritual gestation seems to mirror its human counterpart.  Looking back on our lives, we can observe clearly delineated periods of real growth and development.  In human pregnancy, there are three such periods which are approximately three months in duration (trimesters).  Although our spiritual development is not so evenly spaced, there are definite parallels.  First of all, every necessary component of growth and development is already present within us, although not yet fully manifested.  The fact that Christ is resident within is the only evidence and power one needs to fully embrace this process – for “Christ in you [is] the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)  As we become baptized and fully immersed in His Spirit, SPIRITUAL FRUIT becomes visible and SPIRITUAL GIFTS become operational.  Our spiritual hands, legs, feet, etc. all appear in due course, in God’s timing.  It’s a KAIROS process, not a CHRONOS event.

Hear me clearly.  Although SPIRITUAL SELF-EXAMINATION is mission critical, it also contains inherent risks. (I Corinthians 11:28)  For if we SEE OURSELVES via our carnal sensory perceptions, we will fail to understand (and thereby we will thwart) the developmental plan and purpose of Almighty God.  Therefore, we must strive diligently to SEE OURSELVES AS GOD SEES US.  Which means, DESPITE WHAT WE SPIRITUAL FETUSES LOOK LIKE, we are already fully “COMPLETE IN HIM.” (Colossians 2:10)  Notwithstanding this, we must learn how to “wait” patiently and, above all, we must remain on THE POTTER’S WHEEL while Our Creator fully forms us and shapes unto a functional, empowered and earthly IMAGE OF THE RISEN CHRIST. (Psalm 27:14 – Isaiah 64:8 – Jeremiah 18:2-4)

GOD has not forgotten us.  He never has; He never will.  It might seem so at times, when we rely on sensory perceptions instead of the Word of faith.  We must abide in Him, with unflagging fidelity and confidence, both in our Creator and His divine craftsmanship at work in us. (Ephesians 2:10)  Have no doubt whatsoever that you will turn out well in the end.  Remember: The construction zone always seems messy, but THE MASTER ARCHITECTS is shaping what only appears to be a helter-skelter scene into a magnificent finished work that HE has designed and destined before the foundation of the world.  Trust Him; He’s got the blueprint for your life.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

TOMORROW? SERIOUSLY???

TOMORROW? SERIOUSLY???

Some time ago, I saw an intriguing ad by the Prudential Insurance Company concerning the lost time and opportunity that results from PROCRASTINATION. It even posts a PROCRASTINATION CALCULATOR: http://www.bringyourchallenges.com/ill-do-it-later. This calculator reveals that (on average) someone my age has spent approximately 5.1 years of their lifetime putting things off until tomorrow…PROCRASTINATING! It really caused me to reflect and think.

What is even more fascinating is the list of things that (according to the article) I MIGHT have achieved during my ‘LOST’ 5.1 years. For example, during my theoretical 5.1 years of procrastination, I could have knitted 1.07 sweaters for the gigantic Statue of Liberty (or) I could have taken a 240,000 mile ‘road trip’ to the moon 153 times (or) I could have made and consumed 890,600 cups of tea (or) I could have received 4.1 masters degrees (or) I could have climbed Mt. Everest 354 times (or) I could have painted the Sistine Chapel 1.17 times. Hmmm…think about it

There is a very wise axiom, attributed to Edward Young in the 17th century, which warns against the inherent danger in delay. “Procrastination is the thief of time,” Young wrote. Nevertheless, the prayerful insight of the Psalmist David actually predates Young’s sage saying. King David’s plea to GOD was profoundly simple: “Teach us to NUMBER OUR DAYS, that we may apply our hearts unto WISDOM.” (Psalm 90:12)

So what are YOU doing about YOUR DREAMS…YOUR GOALS…YOUR GOD-GIVEN GIFTS? Are you in hot pursuit, or are you simply procrastinating? Could it be possible that you are paralyzed or stuck in what I call ‘SOMEDAY SYNDROME?’ Consider the fact that CEMETERIES are the wealthiest plots of potential on Planet Earth…for within their gates sleep multiplied millions of unrealized hopes, undeveloped relationships, unwritten books, undiscovered inventions and unfulfilled dreams! What are YOU doing to make sure that YOUR STORY does not culminate with a grade of INCOMPLETION? Think about it! Prayerfully ponder all of your resources: your will, your knowledge, your experience, your education, your energy, your funds, your grit, your determination, your family and friends. And before the sun sets on this day, PLUG INTO THE WISDOM OF GOD. START MAKING IT HAPPEN!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE AWESOME POWER OF INTERCESSORY PRAYER

(Monday) 15 June 2015 ~ Daily Devotional of Pastor Wayne M. Bass

THE AWESOME POWER OF INTERCESSORY PRAYER

Have you ever felt the urge to pray for someone and then just deferred it and said, “I'll pray for them later?”  Read the following true story (told by an American missionary returning home from Africa) and it may change the way you may think about prayer, as well as your sense of urgency about prayer.

Upon arrival in the city, I observed two men fighting, one of whom had been seriously injured.  I treated him for his injuries and at the same time talked to him about our Lord Jesus Christ.  Then I traveled two days, camping overnight, and arrived home without incident.  Two weeks later I repeated this journey.  Upon arriving in the city, I was approached by the young man I had medically treated.

He confessed that he had known I carried money and medicine with me.  He said, “Some of my friends and I followed you into the jungle, knowing you might camp overnight.  We planned to kill you and take your money and the drugs.  But, just as we were about to move into your camp, we saw that you were surrounded by 26 armed guards.”

At this I laughed and said that I was all alone in that jungle campsite.  But the young man pressed his point and said “No sir, I was not the only person to see your guards.  My five friends also saw them and we counted them.  It was because of those guards that we were afraid and left you alone.”

At this point in the missionary’s sermon, one of the men in the congregation jumped to his feet and interrupted him to ask if he could remember the exact day this had happened.  The missionary told the congregation the date, and the man who interrupted told him this story:

“On the night of your incident in Africa, it was morning here and I was preparing to go play golf.  I was about to putt when I felt the urge to pray for you.  In fact, the urging of the Lord was so strong that I phoned for men to meet with me here in the sanctuary to pray for you.  Would all of those men who met with me on that day stand up?”

The men who had met together to pray for the missionary day stood up.  The missionary wasn’t concerned with who they were – he was too busy counting how many men he saw.  There were 26 men.

“The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them.” (Psalm 34:7)

OUR GOD IS AWESOME!

This story is an incredible example of how the Holy Spirit moves in mysterious ways to safeguard and bless God’s people.  So if you ever feel a powerful impression to pray for others, please go along with it because their lives or well-being just might be on the line.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

IT ONLY LOOKS LIKE A BOULDER

IT ONLY LOOKS LIKE A BOULDER

The Chinese word for CRISIS suggests that every problematic situation actually has two heads, one of danger and one of opportunity.  Oftentimes, the challenges that confront us are pregnant with powerful potential.  For further enlightenment, consider the following story.

In ancient times, a king had a large boulder placed on a roadway.  Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock.

Some of the king’s wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it.  Many loudly blamed the king for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the big stone out of the way.

Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables.  On approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried his best to move the large rock to the side of the road.  After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded.

As the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been.  The purse contained many gold coins, along with a note from the king indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway.

The peasant learned what many others never seem to understand.  That is, every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve one’s condition.

Today, instead of cursing or complaining about your circumstances, why not move the boulder in your pathway.  How so?

The ancient Greek mathematician, Archimedes, famously said “Give me a place to stand, and a lever long enough, and I will move the world.”  It’s a natural principle that works just as well in the spiritual dimension.  FAITH is the lever.  PRAYER is the fulcrum.  And Jesus Christ teaches us that we are able to MOVE OUR WORLD by simultaneously deploying these two covenant mechanisms – in conjunction with the power of His Spirit that dwells within us. (II Corinthians 4:7 and Philippians 4:13)

Matthew 21:22

And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”

Mark 11:23

For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.

II Corinthians 4:7

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels [Holy Spirit], that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.

Think.  How are you handling your current challenge?  Are you merely SPEAKING ABOUT your mountain, or are you SPEAKING TO your mountain, with Word-based faith that is transmitted to God’s Throne Room by way of COVENANT PRAYER?

The situation you are now confronting only looks like a mountain, or a challenge, or a boulder, or an impossibility.  In truth, it is a GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY for Christ to shine, in you and through you, thereby brightly illuminating the lives of others.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

MISSION POSSIBLE

MISSION POSSIBLE

Today, your faith and obedience will move you in the direction of God’s perfect will for your life.  In fact, there is absolutely nothing that GOD has composed and orchestrated for your life-symphony that will not be performed with excellence, both in time and in eternity.

Nothing can stop GOD!  Therefore, by extension, nothing can stop YOU – because you not only belong to Him; YOU are in covenant partnership with His Kingdom.

Stop mentioning, measuring and maximizing those things which seem to be impossible.  With GOD, all things are possible! (Mark 9:23)  Our task is simply to hear, believe and act on His Word.  Incidentally, your praise and worship directly brings His power to bear on your situation.  So don’t magnify the problem.  “MAGNIFY THE LORD!” (Psalm 34:3)

All day long, just remember the gospel according to Nike: “Just do it!”

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

SEE THE BEAUTY THAT IS YOUR WIFE

SEE THE BEAUTY THAT IS YOUR WIFE

In a culture dominated by carnal images and perceptions of beauty, one might easily become distracted by superficial glitz and glamour, as contrasted with genuine substance and spirituality.  You see, visual sensuality and sexuality sells.  How so?  We see it played out daily in magazines, on television screens and on the silver screen.  Our senses and sensibility are both saturated and assaulted by a barrage of what we are led to believe is beauty.

But what is true beauty?  How may we define it, acknowledge it, appreciate it, celebrate it?

My response to that question begins with the message of one of my favorite poems, written by the English author, John Keats, in 1819.  Entitled “Ode to a Grecian Urn,” its final lines are a veritable revelation:

“Beauty is truth, truth beauty, – that is all ye know on earth, and all ye need to know.”

Mr. Keats suggests that beauty is never defined by the contour of one’s body, or the color of one’s eyes, hair, and skin.  Rather, true beauty lies within and is discernible ONLY through Godly attitudes and actions, i.e., by the TRUTH of one’s spiritual existence on this earth.

Allow me to share a secret.  In truth, I married UP!  My wonderful wife, Belinda, might never be portrayed on the cover of Glamour or Essence or Vanity Fair.  Her physical features may never make her eligible for consideration by global modeling agencies such as Model Management, IMG Models, or the prestigious Ford Modeling Agency.

Yet, Belinda is the most beautiful woman I know. 

Her warmth and kindness definitely surpass the ultimate results of any sort of make-up, Botox therapy, or cosmetic surgery.  Her honesty and integrity are far more appealing than the so-called ideal female dimensions of 36-24-36.  Her unconditional love would not possibly be enhanced by the likes of L’Oréal, Lancôme, Nivea, Neutrogena, Olay, or Maybelline.

Belinda is not beautiful because she has a perfect look. 

Belinda is beautiful because she has a perfect heart.

Don’t get me wrong.  My eyes whisper daily to me that Belinda is a FOX, an understated natural beauty.  But the inner spirit that she exudes actually supersedes my natural senses.  She completely cares – and takes care of me.  No wonder that all of me is tuned in (and turned on) by my Belinda, for she is a devoted wife, a caring mother, a compassionate friend, a praying worshipper and a true disciple of Christ. 

My heart adores Belinda.

The Apostle Paul clearly describes our roles and responsibilities as husbands – far more eloquently and spiritually than my own capability.  He writes, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.” (Ephesians 5:25)  Wow!  That is true love, agape love.

When a husband SEES his wife in that manner, there is no one on the planet that could possibly be more beautiful, more desirable, more fulfilling, or more available to be loved.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!