GET OUT OF THE REARVIEW MIRROR!

GET OUT OF THE REARVIEW MIRROR!

Sometimes it’s good to look back.  We cannot afford to forget our family and faith legacies, nor should we neglect lessons learned from the past.  On the other hand, it can be dangerous and destructive to look back.  There is a human tendency to become victimized by ‘the paralysis of analysis,” that is, to focus so heavily on past negatives that future positives are impacted or ignored.  In such cases, personal potential is delayed or denied.

Jesus recalled the story of Lot’s wife, who was advised to flee from a place of destruction and never to look back.  Due to anxiety about the life she left behind, she took one more glance backward and turned into a pillar of salt. (Genesis 19:24-26 and Luke 17:32) 

My friend, get out of the rearview mirror!  In vehicles, rearview mirrors are needed (primarily) for changing lanes.  This is not necessarily your season to change lanes.  Indeed, it is your time to forge ahead with faith, joy and confidence. The Apostle Paul said it well: “Forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press…” (Philippians 3:13-14) Jesus Christ said it best: “No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:62) 

Heaven’s Rhema: YOUR FLOW IS IN YOUR FUTURE…not in your past!

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

REALLY...WHO ARE YOU?

REALLY…WHO ARE YOU?

Dear Caterpillar:

I was pondering and praying about you today and, out of the blue, it struck me.  YOU CAN FLY! 

Nevertheless, transition is a challenging journey, isn’t it?  At this existential moment, perhaps from the perspective of others, you are a GROUND-HUGGER, totally trapped in this one-dimensional plane, apparently unable to rise above and soar.

Now hear this!  You are more than what you SEEM LIKE or LOOK LIKE to the doubtful and mortal masses!  You see, POTENTIAL is an inherently risky-yet-rewarding phenomenon.  That is, one can never fully apprehend ultimate possibilities until one DARES TO DREAM and TRIUMPHS BY TRYING.

The key to life is discovering your God-ordered tree and embracing the elevation process. 

RISE, my friend.  RISE!

As you inch your way upward, you will discover certain capacities HIDDEN INSIDE that you never knew existed.  This is the ‘stuff’ of your developmental cocoon, the genesis of your life metamorphosis.

So, from now on, tune in ONLY to voices that summon you to higher heights.

And always know this: I believe in you, caterpillar.  No, I stand corrected.  I believe in you, BUTTERFLY.

Your friend and brother for eternal purpose and destiny,

-Wayne Manning Bass

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

THE BIG ROCKS OF LIFE

THE BIG ROCKS OF LIFE

A while ago, I read a book by an expert on the subject of time management.  This expert was speaking to a group of business students and, to drive home a point, used an illustration I’m sure those students will never forget.  Once I share it with you, you’ll never forget it either.

As this man stood in front of that group of high-powered overachievers he said, “Okay, time for a quiz.” Then he pulled out a one-gallon, wide-mouthed jar and set it on a table in front of him.  Afterwards he produced about a dozen fist-sized rocks and carefully placed them, one at a time, inside the jar.

When the jar was filled to the top and no more rocks could fit in, he asked, “Is this jar full?” Everyone in the class said, “Yes.”  Then he said, “Really?”  He reached under the table and pulled out a bucket of gravel.  Then he dumped some gravel in and shook the jar causing pieces of gravel to work themselves down into the spaces between the big rocks.  Then he smiled and asked the group once more, “Is the jar full?”

By this time the class was onto him.  “Probably not,” one of them answered.  “Good!” he replied.  And he reached under the table and brought out a bucket of sand.  He started dumping the sand in until it filled all the spaces between the rocks and the gravel.  Once more he asked the question, “Is this jar full?”  “No!” the class shouted.  Once again he said, “Good!”  Then he grabbed a pitcher of water and began to pour it in until the jar was filled to the brim.

Then he looked up at the class and asked, “What is the point of this illustration?”

One eager beaver raised his hand and said, “The point is, no matter how full your schedule is, if you try really hard, you can always fit some more things into it!”  “No,” the speaker replied.  “That’s not the point.  The truth this illustration teaches us is simple.  If you don't put the big rocks in first, you’ll never get them in at all.”   The title of this lecture is “The Big Rocks of Life.”

My friend, what are the big rocks in your life?  A project that you want to accomplish?  Time with your loved ones?  Your faith, your education, your finances?  Some special cause?  Teaching or mentoring others? Remember to put these BIG ROCKS IN FIRST, or you’ll never get them in at all.

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

I DECLARE: THINGS ARE GOING TO GET BETTER!

I DECLARE: THINGS ARE GOING TO GET BETTER!

Always remember that every apparent disadvantage in life has a corresponding advantage.

There is a message in every mess.
There is opportunity in every difficulty.
There is promotion after every reversal.
There is hope in every hopeless situation.
There is great grace waiting for you in every disgrace.

So you don’t have to cry over seemingly sad situations.  They are divinely remedied or reversible.

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

LIFE PRINCIPLES

LIFE PRINCIPLES

Let’s prayerfully consider a few principles to live by, according to Tony Peeris of India.  Perhaps you can make a connection with at least one or two.

--You would achieve more, if you don't mind who gets the credit.

--When everything else seems to be lost, focus on the future.
--Don’t fight too much or the enemy will know your art of war.
--The only job you start at the top is when you dig a grave.
--If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for everything.
--If you do little things well, you’ll do big ones better.
--The only thing that comes to you without effort is old age.
--You won’t get a second chance to make a first impression.
--Never take a problem to your boss unless you have a solution.
--If you are not failing, you’re not taking enough risks.
--Don’t try to get rid of your bad temper by losing it.
--Those who don’t make mistakes usually don’t make anything.
--There are two kinds of failures: those who think and never do, and those who do and never think.
--Pick battles big enough to matter, small enough to win.
--All progress has resulted from unpopular decisions.
--Change your thoughts and you change your world.

Thank you, Mr. Peeris.  We’ll ponder your wisdom and keep moving forward.

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

HOW TO GATHER HONEY INSTEAD OF BEE STINGS (Part II)

HOW TO GATHER HONEY INSTEAD OF BEE STINGS (Part II)

Moises P. Reconalla blesses us with a tremendous article that speaks so eloquently about the power of our words.  I reprinted half of it yesterday.  Following is the second half; please prayerfully ponder.

When we understand the importance and power of our words, we can use them for good.  The Word of God clearly declares, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” (Proverbs 18:21, NIV)

James, the disciple of Jesus Christ, adds this: “The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts.  Consider that a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.  The tongue also is a fire, a word of evil among the parts of the body.  It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and itself set on fire by hell.” (James 3:5-6, NIV)

The foregoing scripture texts mean that life is controlled by words.  I repeat, life is controlled by words.  Words release authority.  Words determine the course of events.  Words matter.  So what should you do about this?

In her book entitled “Ministry of Healing,” Ellen G. White offers a practical answer to the foregoing question.  “Cultivate the habit of speaking well of others.  Dwell upon the good qualities of those with whom you associate, and see as little as possible of their errors and failings.”

She further encourages us, “When tempted to complain of what someone has said or done, praise something in that person’s life or character.  Cultivate thankfulness.  Praise God for His wonderful love in giving Christ to die for us.”

And for those who actually enjoy criticism, she warns, “Evil speaking is a twofold curse, falling more heavily upon the speaker than upon the hearer.  He who scatters the seeds of dissension and strife reaps in his own soul those deadly fruits.  The very act of looking for evil in others develops evil in those who look.  By dwelling upon the faults of others, we are changed into the self-same image.”

She continues, “Instead of criticizing and condemning others, say, ‘I must work out my own salvation.’  If I cooperate with Him who desires to save my soul, I must watch myself diligently.  I must become a new creature in Christ.  Then, instead of weakening those who are struggling and striving against evil, I am enabled to strengthen them with encouraging words.”

She adds, “We are too indifferent regarding to one another.  Too often we forget that our fellow laborers are in need of strength and sympathy.  Help them by your prayers, and let them know that you are ready and willing to do it.”

James concludes in his writings that, “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.” (James 1:26, NIV)

We must remember that no one knows when life is over.  Our life is like a vapor that appears for a moment and then disappears!  So I encourage you, don't let your life die like an insect’s without doing something good for yourself by consistently doing right by your fellowmen.

Rebecca Barlow Jordan agrees: “It’s not how much you accomplish in life that really counts, but how much you give to others.  It’s not how many goals you reach, but how many lives you touch.  Believe in the impossible, hold tight to the incredible, and live each day to its fullest potential.  You can make a difference in your world if you are generous with your affirmations and love.”

Before I conclude my article, I would like to share with you a short story from the “Song of the Bird.”

Sufi Bayazi says this about himself: “I was a revolutionary when I was young, and all my prayer to God was “Lord, give me the energy to change the world.”  As I approached middle age and realized that half my life was gone without changing a single soul, I changed my prayer to “Lord, give me the grace to change all those who come into contact with me.  If it is just my family and friends, I shall be content.”  Now that I am an old man and my days are numbered, my one prayer is “Lord, give me the grace to change MYSELF.  Had I prayed for this right from the start, I should not have wasted my life.”

In the words of the Apostle Paul, “Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable...if anything is excellent or praiseworthy...think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8, NIV)

Thank you, Moises P. Reconalla, for sharing such simple yet profound wisdom.  If we can discipline ourselves to live in this manner, we will always manage to gather honey in our life-relationships, instead of gathering troublesome and painful bee stings.

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

HOW TO GATHER HONEY INSTEAD OF BEE STINGS (Part I)

HOW TO GATHER HONEY INSTEAD OF BEE STINGS (Part I)

A while back, I was blessed to read a thought-provoking article by Moises P. Reconalla.  It speaks very eloquently and cogently about the power of words.  It’s rather long, so I’ll reprint half of it today and half tomorrow.  Please read and prayerfully consider.

Few people realize the importance of the words they speak.  There is almost no way to overemphasize the importance of what we say, yet most people give it almost no thought, usually speaking without thinking.

The inspirational and classical author, Og Mandino, once asked, “Why is it then that so many of us go out of our own way to offend others with criticism and offensive judgments that so often come back to haunt us?  Why do we allow our big mouths to dig ruts in our path so deep that our forward progress is finally nil?”

He continued and commented, “If your tongue has been busy accumulating enemies for you, enemies you do not need who can harm you, now is as good a time as any to cease and desist.  How sad it would be for such a petty habit to destroy your great potential.”

Another very well-known author described the worst effects of criticism to the receivers.  In Dale Carnegie’s book entitled “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” he declares “Criticism is futile because it puts a man on the defensive, and usually makes him strive to justify himself.  Criticism is dangerous, because it wounds a man’s precious pride, hurts his sense of importance, and arouses his resentment.”

Dale Carnegie reminds us, “When dealing with people, let us remember we are not dealing with creatures of logic.  We are dealing with creatures of emotion, creatures bristling with prejudices and motivated by pride and vanity.”  He warns that “criticism is a dangerous spark – a spark that is liable to cause an explosion in the powder magazine of pride – an explosion that sometimes hastens death.”

Carnegie gave concrete examples to clarify his statements.  “General Leonard Wood was criticized and not allowed to go with the army to France.  That blow to his pride probably shortened his life.  Bitter criticism drove Thomas Chatterton, the English poet, to suicide.”

The famed Greek mathematician and philosopher, Pythagoras, once said, “A wound from a tongue is worse than a wound from a sword for the latter affects only the body, the former affects the spirit.”

In the Bible, James the brother and disciple of Jesus Christ, issues a warning about the evil poison that emerges from the tongue.  He describes people who use their tongues in praising and blessing God, then turn around to use their tongues to speak evil of one another.  “With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God.  Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing.  My brethren, these things ought not to be so.” (James 3:9-10)

We cannot use our tongues to bad-mouth and curse our brethren, then continue ‘business as usual’ with our vertical relationships with God.  The Bible clearly says that such behavior is characteristic of hypocrites.  “The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor.” (Proverbs 11:9)

The greatest teacher of all times, our Lord Jesus Christ, reveals to us that words are extremely important.  In Matthew 12:36-37, Jesus exclaims, “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the Day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken.  For by your words you will be acquitted and by your words you will be condemned.” 

One of the hallmarks of true believers is their ability to positively influence the atmosphere and their associations with others.  Genuine words are potentially as sweet as honey; thoughtless words carry definite stings, more painful than any wasp, hornet, or bee.

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

INTERNAL AFFAIRS

INTERNAL AFFAIRS

PEACE emanates from within.  Unfortunately for so many, THE EXTERNAL is often out of alignment with THE ETERNAL.  Nevertheless, you and I have attitudinal choices.  We must not allow ourselves to be irrationally influenced or controlled by outside circumstances.  How can this possibly be?  How can we shape and secure positive attitudes during close encounters with trouble or tragedy?  Indeed, it is possible because you and I are infinitely more capable and more competent than we might appear!

In the context of time, we merely LOOK LIKE human bodies, subject to an endless array of sensory stimuli: auditory, olfactory, gustatory, tactile and visual.  Admittedly, we are impacted by all these human factors, many of which supersede the span of our control.  Nevertheless, WE ARE MUCH MORE than our frail human bodies might suggest.  Far beyond our physical anatomies, THE CREATOR has endowed us with exceptional minds and eternal spirits.  This means we can live in total transcendence; and, despite anything, WE CAN RISE.  Fact is, we are WINNER-BELIEVERS, endowed with the MIND OF GOD and encompassed by the PEACE OF GOD.  Through Him, we embrace inexplicable peace – even in the midst of challenges and storms.

Consider the tale of the ancient king who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the most accurate portrayal of peace.  Many artists submitted their work and the king carefully examined every picture.  There were only two he really liked, so he had to choose between them.

One picture was of a calm lake, perfectly mirroring the peaceful, towering mountains all around.  Overhead was a bright blue sky with fluffy white clouds.  It was the favorite of all who saw it.  Truly, they concluded, it was a perfect portrait of peace.

The other picture had mountains also, but they were rugged and bare.  Above was an angry sky from which rain poured down and lightning danced about menacingly.  Down the side of the mountain roared a foaming and powerful waterfall.  It would be difficult to imagine a less peaceful place!  But when the king looked more closely, he saw beside the waterfall a tiny bush growing out of a crack in the rock.  Inside the bush, a mother bird had built her family nest.  There, surrounded by an angry rush of water, sat a contented mother bird, warming and protecting her young – in perfect peace.

Which picture would you have selected?  The king chose the latter.  When asked “Why?” the king replied, “Because peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, no trouble, or no issues.  Peace means to be in the middle of all these things while yet remaining calm in your heart.  That is the true meaning of peace.”

Jesus Christ bequeaths His peace as a legacy to every believer: “Peace I leave with you,” he declares, “my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27) Yet, many Christians experience perpetual anxiety, shrouded in chronic and tormenting fear.  My friends, this need not be.

Please prayerfully consider the following scriptural admonitions and solutions:

---God is love. (I John 4:8)
---There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear: because fear hath torment.  He that fears is not made perfect in love. (I John 4:18)
---Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusts in thee. (Isaiah 26:3)
---Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
---Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:4-6)
---Men ought always to pray, and not to faint. (Luke 18:1)

The logic of THE WORD is profoundly clear and simple.  The first requirement for personal peace is to fully embrace GOD (Who is LOVE), which positions and empowers us to expel toxic fears.  However, this is not automatic; there is a process involved.  The second requirement is to constantly meditate on the essence and character of God, via the Word of God.  The third requirement is to seek specific direction from God for every potentially troubling situation.  This is accomplished via the vehicle of prayer.  The fourth requirement is that we must PRAY FROM THE WORD (The Covenant Contract) as we confidently enlist the support of “The Mediator” of the covenant. (Hebrews 8:6)

My friend, have your INTERNAL AFFAIRS been set in order, or are you still struggling to maintain composure and sanity whenever you encounter difficulties or storms?  It is God’s perfect will that we experience the provision and prosperity that resides within His peace. (III John 1:2) So always “let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)

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

NO MATTER WHAT...YOU HAVE WORTH!

NO MATTER WHAT…YOU HAVE WORTH!

A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill.  In a room filled with 200 people, he asked, “Who would like this $20 bill?”  All hands rapidly rose into the air. 

Then he said, “I am going to give this $20 to one of you, but first, let me do this.”  He proceeded to crumple the dollar bill up.  He then asked, “Who still wants it?”  Still all hands were raised up in the air.

“Well,” he replied, “What if I do this?”  And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe.  He picked it up, then somewhat crumpled and dirty.  “Now who still wants it?”  The same hands rose high into the air.

“My friends,” he concluded, “you have all learned an extremely valuable lesson.  No matter what I did to this money, you still wanted it because it never decreased in value.  It is still worth twenty dollars.  Many times in life, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by decisions we make or circumstances that come our way.  And at times we feel as though we are worthless.  But no matter what has happened to you, or what will happen, you will never lose your value in God’s eyes.  To Him, dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless.  So don’t wallow in your mistakes; get up and make a change!”

Psalm 17:8 states that God will keep us, “as the apple of His eye.”  The worth of our lives comes not by what we do or who we are, but by WHOSE WE ARE!  Regardless of your past, IF you can stay connected to JESUS, you will always be extremely special.  Don’t ever forget it!   Be encouraged and keep moving forward, knowing that your faith is the victory! (I John 5:4)

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

THE URGENCY AND JOY OF NOW

THE URGENCY AND JOY OF NOW

Most of us convince ourselves that life will somehow be better when we get married, or perhaps when we bring a new life into this world…etc., etc., etc.  And early in marriage, we can feel frustrated when our children are very young, fully convincing ourselves that we will be more content when they are older.  After that, we can feel frustrated that we now must deal with challenging teenagers.  We are convinced that we’ll certainly be happier when they are beyond that stage, perhaps in college.

We tell ourselves that our life will be completely joyful when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we buy a nicer car, when we go on a dream vacation, when we gain that dream job, when we get that long awaited promotion, when we retire…etc., etc., etc.

Truth is, there’s no better time to be happy than right now.  If not now, when?  Your life will always be loaded with challenges.  It’s best to simply admit this to yourself and decide to be joyful anyway…today.

One of my favorite quotes is attributed to Alfred D. Souza.  He wrote, “For a long time it seemed to me that life was just about to begin – real life.  But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, some time remaining to fulfill a personal obligation, or some debt to be paid.  Then…life would begin.  At last it dawned on me that these challenges ARE my life.”

Souza’s perspective helps us to see that there is no singular condition that produces happiness.  Thus, that priceless emotional commodity called contentment is the only sensible pathway.  My friend, you must appreciate every moment (and circumstance) you have, and treasure it more because you share it with some special people – special enough to spend your time with.  Remember: Time waits for no one.

So stop waiting until you finish school, until you go back to school, until you lose ten pounds, until you gain ten pounds, until you have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, until you get married, until Friday night, until Sunday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until you are financially set, until the first or fifteenth of the month, until your song comes on, until your ship comes in, until you retire…until you die. 

Once you are born again, you must make the conscious decision that there is no better time to be joyful than right now.

Happiness is a journey, not a destination.
Work like you don’t need money,
Love like you’ve never been hurt,
And laugh like no one’s watching.

God has afforded each of us a DELEGATED GIFT that we must use to achieve our purpose and glorify His name!  Do you know yours?

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

IF I WERE ONLY ME

IF I WERE ONLY ME

Some time ago, I encountered a perfect stranger at the mall.  He walked up and enthusiastically greeted me as if we were lifelong friends.  My first thought was ‘What is he selling?’  Nevertheless, because his charisma and intellect intrigued me, and since I had no pressing engagements, we conversed for quite some time.  This young man, likely late-twenties in age, rattled on and on, sharing personal insights and perspectives on politics and religion, family and friends, failures and successes, a full menu of life experiences.

One memorable remark caught my attention.  He casually referred to himself as “Chameleon Man.”  When I asked why, he responded “I have the uncanny ability to change myself completely, to totally adapt to any situation.  In fact, I can BE anybody…so I AM everybody!”

I paused to reflect and then countered, “That’s an interesting point of view.  However, since you change so often and so significantly, do YOU ever get ‘lost in the sauce’ – carried away by your own extensive repertoire of emotional disguises?”  He laughed loudly.  “That’s clever!” he replied with much more volume that the environment warranted.  “Come to think of it,” he continued, “yes, there are times when I’m not sure WHO I am.”  We talked a while longer; I prayed with him and invited him to church.

During my drive home, I contemplated our wide-ranging discourse and came to the realization that there are multiplied millions who could honestly self-identify as “Chameleon Man,” or “Woman,” as the case may be.  Indeed, most of us try a bit too hard to fit in neatly with the masses.  Let’s be clear.  I’m not advocating for anyone to adopt a rebellious or contentious spirit.  But it’s apparent that so many do not embrace our God-created distinctives due to some vague notion or need for conformity, driven by the societal pressure to FIT IN.

Frankly, this mindset is synonymous with FEAR.  It deprives us of uniqueness, erodes self-esteem and produces a herd-mentality, i.e. what I call “GROUP THINK.”

HOWEVER, GOD FORMED YOU FOR HIS PLEASURE AND THEN THREW AWAY THE MOLD.  There’s nobody else exactly like you.  Consider this.  Fashion dictates conformity to the current season’s most popular colors, fabrics and styles.  My friend, YOU are infinitely more than that, so stay out of the ‘superficial-imitation-lane’ when it comes down to identifying and actualizing your God-ordained reason for being alive and present on the planet.

Hey YOU…show up!  HUMAN LIFE, from Heaven’s perspective, is definitely a CHAMELEON-FREE ZONE!

Why?  Firstly, God not empowers your created distinctiveness, He is ultimately glorified by the uniqueness of YOU.  Secondly, while seated on your rocker in the twilight of your journey, you would never want to languish in life-regret, looking back and thinking ‘If I had only been ME’…

Identify Heaven’s highest hopes for YOU, and deploy your destiny.

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

CHRIST, OUR REFINER

CHRIST, OUR REFINER

Have you ever wondered whether there is actual purpose in the pressure of personal tests and trials?  Well, carefully consider the following story for valuable insight into your life-situation: 

Some time ago, a group of women met in a certain city to study the scriptures, and followed up with a thought provoking discussion.  While reading the third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable expression in the third verse: “And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” 

One woman’s opinion was that this verse intended to convey the concept of the sanctifying power of Jesus Christ.  She proposed to visit a silversmith and to report to her classmates what he would say.  Accordingly, she visited the silversmith, and without divulging the scriptural object of her errand she inquired about the process of refining silver, which he described in great detail to her.

“Sir,” she asked, “do you sit here all the while during the process of refining?”

“Oh, yes, madam,” replied the silversmith with conviction.  “I must sit here vigilantly and keep my eyes steadily focused on the furnace, for if the time necessary for refining is exceeded by even the slightest degree, the silver is surely injured.”

The woman at once saw the beauty and comfort of Prophet Malachi’s expression, “He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.”  While Christ finds it necessary to allow His children to experience the discomfort of the ‘furnace,’ He does it for our ultimate good, and His eye is surely and steadily intent on the gracious work of purifying us.  During our sanctifying process, His wisdom and love are fully engaged for the best possible results in the lives of His beloved children.  Therefore, believers’ trials do not occur randomly or without purpose, for in the words of Jesus Christ, “The very hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Luke 12:7) 

As the inquiring woman departed the silversmith’s shop, he called her back and said he had something more that was extremely important to mention.  He said, “The silversmith only knows that the process of purification is complete when he sees his own image clearly reflected in the silver.” The woman smiled knowingly and thanked the silversmith for sharing such valuable information.

“What a beautiful illustration!” she thought.  When Christ sees His own image reflected and shining brightly in His people, the sanctifying work of The Holy Spirit will surely have been accomplished in us, by the grace, mercy, wisdom and love of our God.

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

GOD INSPIRED MAMA WHO INSPIRED ME: "FEED THE BIRDS!"

GOD INSPIRED MAMA WHO INSPIRED ME: “FEED THE BIRDS!”

There are several things I love to do when God awakens me in the morning.  I love sharing time with Him; it’s a divine appointment that edifies me and blesses my day.  I love preparing breakfast for my wife, Belinda, who does more to benefit me than words can convey.  And I love taking pieces of bread out on our deck to feed the birds.  Squirrels stop by to dine also.  I know this might seem odd to some.  Allow me to explain.

As a young boy, Mama occasionally gave me an occasional and unusual task.  She handed slices of bread to me and told me to tear them into tiny pieces.  Then, she directed me to take those bread crumbs to the back yard and spread them on the ground to feed the birds.  There are several reasons this seemed somewhat strange to me.  I was a child and my first thoughts were rather selfish.  There were twelve mouths to feed in our family, and I wondered (silently I might add) at the necessity and wisdom of doling out ‘our bread’ to random sparrows. Secondly, it never occurred to me that it might be ‘our job’ to feed nearby birds; I thought nature handled such matters.  After all, it seemed logical to me that birds have their own buffet of bugs and worms at mealtime.  Finally, it seemed patently unfair for Mama to ask ME to don winter coat, hat, boots and gloves and head out into the icy cold and snow to handle this aviary meal matter. The depth of her concern about these birds puzzled me to no end.

One day, I decided to inquire (respectfully) about it.  Mama responded, rather matter-of-factly, “God made the birds, and everything God made is precious in His sight.”  I had no way of knowing that a full-fledged ‘Sunday School lesson’ would be forthcoming!  Indeed, Mama was my Sunday School teacher; so, she opened her Bible and read slowly so I could glean an important lesson about our caring Creator.

Luke 12:6-7

Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?  But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

And then, without further commentary, Mama started singing the chorus of a song I had heard a thousand times: “I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free; His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.  His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.”

Then, Mama explained that God created everything.  Afterwards, He made us stewards over all of creation. Suddenly, it all made perfect sense.  If the birds could not find an adequate supply of worms due to the wintry weather, it was indeed our job (as good stewards) to supplement their diet and sustain them.  In that way, all of us have significant participation and partnership in the ongoing creative activity of God.  Wow!

Mama took time to emphasize a powerful point that Jesus had made in the aforementioned scripture passage: “If God cares that much for birds, just think how much He cares for us?  If God meets the needs of such tiny and seemingly insignificant creatures, how much more will He take care of us and supply all our needs?”  From that point on, I did not mind so much sharing our bread, or venturing outdoors to feed God’s birds, regardless of the weather.  All of this has stayed with me.  I can still hear Mama’s voice, and by extension, the voice of our Creator: “Feed the birds.” 

Admittedly, I don’t know if bread is the healthiest diet for birds.  Undoubtedly, bird seed would be a better alternative.  I must buy some.  Thank you for this important life-lesson, Mama.  And thank you, JESUS, for your constant care.

Mrs. Mary Watts Bass, Happy Mother’s Day in Heaven!  Your absence is still felt by your offspring, but we will surely see you again – in The Rapture.

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

YES, YOU HAVE SIGNIFICANCE

YES, YOU HAVE SIGNIFICANCE

Whenever you are tempted to feel like you or your life’s work are rather small, relative to others, or in comparison to your original plans and dreams, prayerfully consider the following story.

A vacationing businessman was walking along a beach when he saw a young boy.  Scattered along the shore were many starfish that had been washed up by the tide, which were likely to die before the tide returned.  The boy walked slowly along the shore and occasionally reached down to toss the stranded starfish back into the ocean.

The businessman, hoping to teach the boy a lesson in common sense, walked up to him and said, “I have been watching what you are doing, son.  You have a good heart, and I know you mean well, but do you realize how many beaches there are around here and how many starfish will die daily on all these beaches?  Surely such an industrious and kindhearted boy such as yourself could find something better to do with your time.  Do you really think that what you are doing is going to make a difference?”

The boy looked up at the man, and then he looked down at a starfish laying at his feet.  He picked up the starfish, and as he gently tossed it back into the ocean, he said, “It makes a difference to that one.”

If you can make a difference for just one person, your life is indeed significant and bountifully blessed.

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

THERE IS HELP ALONGSIDE

THERE IS HELP ALONGSIDE

Jesus Christ extends an extraordinary privilege and promise to every believer: “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20b) Wow!  His statement simply suggests that there are no problems, pains, or challenges which will totally overwhelm believing disciples who persistently pursue and practice the presence of the Lord.

So often, I am encouraged by Christ’s departing decree to his disciples (and by extension to us): “I will not leave you comfortless: I WILL COME TO YOU.” (John 14:18) Since JESUS CHRIST is the High Priest who is intimately involved and constantly concerned, He shows up, every single day and in every life situation, to engage and enlighten us.  Indeed, He is THE PARACLETE, the One who walks alongside us for fellowship, direction and comfort.  We need not seek alternatives or substitutes since in Christ, “the author and finisher of our faith,” we have THE REAL THING. (Hebrews 12:2) As Jehovah Shammah, “THE LORD IS THERE” – with us at all times. (Ezekiel 48:35) These inspiring truths remind me of an intriguing story:

In a rural area, a poor farmer was tending to Buddy, his horse, when a stranger walked over, desperately in need of the farmer’s help.  This stranger had lost control of his vehicle and ran off into a ditch.  After informing the farmer that his vehicle was quite small, he asked if the horse could pull his car out of the ditch.  The farmer said he would come and look, but would not be able to help if there was any possibility that his horse could be injured.

The farmer saw that the stranger had assessed the situation correctly and that the vehicle was indeed small, so he fastened a strong rope, one end to the vehicle and the other to his horse.  He was confident that Buddy would be able to pull the car out of the ditch.  But then he did a strange thing.  The farmer shouted, “Pull, Casey, pull,” and the horse would not budge.  The farmer then called out, “Pull, Bailey, pull,” but, again, the horse would not budge.  The farmer then hollered, “Pull, Mandy, pull,” but his horse would not move one inch.  The farmer then said matter-of-factly, “Pull, Buddy, pull,” and his horse quickly pulled the vehicle out of the ditch.  The stranger was most grateful, but puzzled.  He asked the farmer why he had called his horse by four different names.  The farmer replied, “Buddy is blind, and I had to make him think he had a lot of help pulling the car out of the ditch or he might not have pulled at all.”

Quite interesting and applicable to us, isn’t it?  For whenever we embrace the mistaken notion that we are alone and somehow incapable of accomplishing Christ’s Kingdom mission and mandate on our lives, we too wind up living far beneath our predestined position, power and privilege.  Certainly, we were designed to live in connection and community with others, but we must never forget that the ONE TRUE SOURCE of our help is ALMIGHTY GOD.  He is the ever-present Supplier of assistance, encouragement and strength. (Philippians 4:19) No wonder the Psalmist David exclaimed with such commitment and confidence, “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills…my help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2)  

Point To Ponder: With God’s help, are you pulling your intended weight in His Kingdom, in your community, or in your family?

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

THE WARRIOR WITHIN

THE WARRIOR WITHIN

In the face of opposition or difficult circumstances, we are tempted by the enemy of our soul to doubt the goodness, greatness and sovereignty of God.  During moments like these, we would do well to reflect upon a powerful directive in The Holy Writ: “Fight the good fight of faith, and lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (I Timothy 6:12)

Kiplimo Chemirmir, a Kenyan warrior, is convinced that there is an awesome untapped power that resides within.  Prayerfully consider his words:

Tough people dare when others doubt.  Believe in yourself for the walls around you do not define the will within you.  See everything that you face in life as a test; face it because your heart wants what’s beyond it. Embrace your results and never give less than what you expect, and always remember in your own ways - you are powerful, you can do it, and you are a champion.

In my tribe, we believe that beneath our skin stands a warrior.  Our ultimate belief is that there’s a shield and spear that is grasped by the warrior within us, which must always hang in the walls our hearts.  We can only use them to protect ourselves and never hurt anyone in any way at all; to fight bravely but only for peace and victory that builds our lives from poverty and all that weakens us.

We must hunt for our goals and never cry when we are wounded by failure or disappointments.  To be brave and never forget to be wise with our strength because your greatest enemy is yourself, so make sure that the choices you make in life will not cause you to dig your own grave.

Never use that spear to beat or hurt yourself, nor use the shield to hide from your battles.  Use it for its purpose and for what is right.  Always fight a good fight when life brings you challenges, for sometimes life is a beast that must be tamed.  And, if this beast brings troubles that are mightier than your strength, remember a wise warrior listens keenly to those who advise him, but he never lets anyone decide for him.

You are the maker of your own destiny.  Fighting is in your spirit, valor is in your heart, endurance is in your blood – and this is why you must always believe in yourself, for deep within you stands a warrior who cannot be defeated.

You were born to be a warrior and this you will always will be; this is your birthright, you must not deny it.  So do not fail yourself because of fear, nor what’s standing before you; the victorious fighter within will define you.

So fight back.  Strive for a better life, strive for peace, strive to become all you can be and never settle, for in life we are growing and always moving forward.  All is possible if you do not run away but believe tenaciously in yourself.

In our tribe, I have become a warrior who is destined to be an elder.  A boy must go through a gruesome rite of passage, and the last day is the highlight of it.

I was fourteen years old when my time came.  The last week of the month of December was when I had to face a lion to complete my passage.  I remember that day like it was one second ago, standing breathless with my spear, a dagger on my hip, a quiver with twenty tranquilizing arrows hanging tightly on my back.

My bow fell to the ground while stalking the lion.  The lion turned back roaring and staring at me with fiery eyes that pierce the soul of its prey.  Even lightning and thunder could never make my heart stop like in that moment.  But being there was not about courage; it was about destiny.

What made me stand strong and ready to charge is who I was, told by my elders and a powerful voice inside me.  I grew up being taught to believe in the warrior within.  It is hope, courage, strength and all that shapes a man to bring out his best, to rely on who he truly is, to triumph no matter the circumstances.

On that glorious day, the way the lion stared at me, I saw him as he saw me.  I could see a slice of fear on his face, which made me even braver.  I was only a young boy at that moment but I did not feel like I was a boy, or young, or weak or anything less.  I felt the spirit of the warrior breathing within, declaring “Today I will conquer the lion and I will roar through all the rest of my days.”

To this day defeat or failure never hurts because if I let them control me, I will be betraying the warrior’s path that I grew up following.  My friend when you are alive, just like the lion, you must never stop hunting. Just like the warrior, you must never stop conquering and believing in the God who resides within.

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

THINK AND DO

THINK AND DO

King Solomon, the sage, penned powerful insights concerning the connection between one’s thoughts and one’s destiny: “As he thinks in his heart, so is he.” (Proverbs 23:7) This is the foundational truth undergirding one of his more memorable directives: “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) As we carefully reflect upon our lives, we recognize that everything (good and bad) emerges from how we think.  How so?  Every decision springs from internal thought processes, and the actions that follow are merely reflections and realizations of how and what we think.

It naturally follows that our thinking must be judiciously regulated.  Nevertheless, how are we to accomplish this when our senses are overwhelmed daily by a tidal wave of worldly input via mass media and our interactions with others?

Firstly, we must adopt a HIGHER COMPASS by which to navigate and govern our lives.  King David’s prayer concerning this is key.  He petitioned God: “ORDER MY STEPS IN YOUR WORD, and let no iniquity have dominion over me.” (Psalm 119:133) Perhaps, this is the only logical and practical way for us to fully embrace Solomon’s advice (referenced above) to ‘guard our hearts.’  ONLY THE “WISE GOD” is consistently “able to keep you from falling” into sin or error. (I Timothy 1:17 and Jude 1:24)

Why not ask GOD for help in filtering out all the background noise, the worldly distractions, the confusing voices and the media assault on our senses, so we are able to think wisely and super-naturally?  Indeed, this is absolutely necessary since the Word declares that “the carnal mind [the natural or unredeemed mind] is enmity [the enemy] against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” (Romans 8:7)

The scriptural solution?  “Do not be conformed to this world, but BE TRANSFORMED BY THE RENEWING OF YOUR MIND, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) This may only be accomplished in the life of one who seeks full surrender to The Creator.  Thus, David’s prayer: “Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes, and I shall keep it to the end.  Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law.  Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart.” (Psalm 119:33-34)

Paying attention to what we are THINKING first involves paying attention to what we are hearing, what we are reading, what we are watching and what we are ultimately internalizing.  Back in ‘The Stone Age’ – when I was an elementary school student – we had English grammar workbooks entitled “Think and Do.”  It was an entirely effective way to learn the fundamentals of our language.  Those practical workbooks taught us how to read and write well.  In truth, all of us would be better positioned for life if we would adopt a similar model.  Now hear this, my friends: TODAY…THINK AND DO!  Reflect on the right things, then follow the right path.  Your life will be infinitely better for it.

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