CRAFTING YOUR UNIQUE LIFE-VISION (Part IV)

CRAFTING YOUR UNIQUE LIFE-VISION (Part IV)

In order to be successful in life, we must discover, develop and deploy the God-ordained reasons for our being.  As children of divine destiny, we exist for His purpose.  Without knowing what this is and without actualizing it, our lives seem empty, irrelevant and unfulfilling.  Today, let’s take one last look at the dynamic Kingdom Principles presented to us by the late great Bible teacher and author, Dr. Myles Munroe:

KINGDOM PRINCIPLE #4:

“Without VISION, we lose self-control and discipline.”

How so?

- Crystal-clear vision orders our daily attitudes and actions.

- Crystal-clear vision gives us tangible reason for eagerly embracing today.

- Crystal-clear vision gives us a gauge for involvement and commitment.

- Crystal-clear vision gives us courage to persevere through difficult times.

- Crystal-clear vision stretches our faith and strengthens our intimacy with God.

How do we bring glory to God?  The answer is quite simple: By identifying and accomplishing the unique work that He has set our hands to do.  According to Dr. Munroe, “the cemetery is the richest place on Earth because it is filled with unwritten books, unlaunched corporations and unrealized dreams.”  Wow!

In a very real sense, the VISION you have is demonstrably OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD!  Why?  Because at birth, GOD breathed something supremely special and unique into your body, mind and spirit. 

MY FRIEND, GET TO IT!

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

WHY I AM THANKFUL...EVERY DAY

WHY I AM THANKFUL…EVERY DAY

On this Thursday we celebrate the American national holiday known as “Thanksgiving Day.”  This commemoration was launched unofficially by a group of Pilgrims who departed permanently from England on September 6, 1620.  After a rather rough two-month sea voyage, they landed at the site that would later be designated as Plymouth, Massachusetts.  Due to the extreme harshness of their first winter in The New World (along with a profound lack of preparation), one-half of these settlers died by the spring of 1621. 

Nevertheless, they were blessed to receive the skillful assistance of Native Americans, who helped them to plant crops and prepare adequately for the next winter.  With profound gratitude to God for an overflowing harvest, the Pilgrims held a three-day feast, commencing on December 13, 1621.  The governor of the fledgling Massachusetts Colony dispatched four men who hunted for enough fowl and deer to feed everyone.  The Native Americans celebrated alongside, with a large aggregation led by King Massasoit and ninety of his men.  On that day Pilgrim Edward Winslow recorded a colonial proclamation which stated that “by the goodness of God…we are far from want.” 

President Abraham Lincoln officially inaugurated Thanksgiving Day as a national holiday in 1863, midway through the American Civil War.  Today in the USA, Thanksgiving has become the most traveled day of the year.  Multiplied millions take to the airways and highways to share a delightful family day focused on food and fellowship, with the traditional turkey at the heart of their culinary feast.

It has often been said that, for Christians, every day should be a day of thanksgiving.  The Word of God clearly agrees and admonishes the believer, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (I Thessalonians 5:18) 

In that thankful frame of mind, please allow me to share a few things for which I am eternally grateful to our God.  Words cannot describe how much I treasure God’s grace and mercy, reflected in the life, suffering, death and resurrection of His only begotten Son.  Jesus, from my heart I thank you for living and dying (and living again) for me.  And I am also grateful for the gift of exceptional and Godly parents, who raised ten children in the fear and admonition of the Lord and with sufficient capacities to succeed in this world system, and beyond.  I thank God for the siblings that I dearly love (four sisters and five brothers) and the fact that most of us are yet in the land of the living.  Last December, we lost our eldest sister, Wilma; and our brother, Dwight, passed on at a very early age.

I am so grateful, Lord, for my phenomenal wife, Belinda, for my gifted children, my thirteen ‘sainted’ grandchildren (who can do no wrong), and for two adorable great-granddaughters.  I am highly favored and truly blessed.

Thank You, Lord, for a reasonable portion of health and strength.  Thank You for the use and activity of my limbs.  Thank You for the ability to speak, to hear, to feel, to smell and to see.  Thank You for our lovely home, our cars, our clothes, our income and the ability to meet our financial obligations.

Thank You for the significant Kingdom ministry that you have assigned to us.  Thank You for endowing genuine compassion and a burden for souls.  Thank You for granting us with the will, energy and resources to do our small part in fulfilling The Great Commission via global missions.  Thank You for the spiritual fruit, gifts and empowerment of the Holy Spirit.  Thank You for the opportunity to have received a solid education, for the ability to think, to reflect, to evaluate and to make sound judgments.  Thank You for the ability to write with clarity and creativity and thank you for the anointing to teach and proclaim your Word with simplicity and sincerity.

Thank You for your encouragement, your direction and your wise instruction for righteousness living.  Thank You for allowing me to be called by Your Name.  I am a “Christian,” one of Your own.  Thank You for “the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.” (I Timothy 3:15)  Thank You for your limitless love and your infinite kindness.  Thank You for picking me up whenever I fail or fall.  Thank You for your blood that cleanses me, your Spirit that teaches me, your Word that strengthens me and your people who edify me.

Thank you for the all the things that I have been through, the pluses and the minuses, the experiences that have shaped me and positioned me for serving others.  Thank you that I am still standing.  I am eternally grateful, Lord, and I appreciatively thank YOU…in all things…and for all things.  JESUS, WHAT A WONDER YOU ARE!  On this Thanksgiving Day, and every day, WE, your people, are humbly grateful for our great and good CREATOR.  From our hearts, LORD, we thank you.

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

CRAFTING YOUR UNIQUE LIFE-VISION (Part III)

CRAFTING YOUR UNIQUE LIFE-VISION (Part III)

Mission critical to life success is discovering, developing and deploying the primary reason for our being.  Remember: YOU and I are on this planet for a DIVINE PURPOSE!  Today, let’s look further at the dynamic Kingdom Principles presented by the late great Dr. Myles Munroe:

KINGDOM PRINCIPLE #3:

“The fact that God started me is the proof (the evidence) that God already finished me.”

My life-verse is recorded in Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”  This scripture strengthens and sustains me during the most challenging times.

Dr. Munroe’s aforementioned Kingdom Principle is paradoxical because GOD ALWAYS ENDS THINGS (FIRST) IN ETERNITY, and then He backs up to manifest them in the context of time.  The prophet Isaiah confirmed that our God is all about “declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure.’” (Isaiah 46:10, NKJV)  If I may be bold enough to paraphrase our Creator, He is saying something like this: “I start at the end…after I have finished.”

That’s why God never panics.  And that is why we must never yield to personal outbreaks of frustration and/or stress.  Let’s look briefly at some biblical examples.

The fall of man was no surprise to God; neither did it create consternation or dismay in the heavenlies. Why?  Because the Lamb that was slain (chronologically about 2,000 years ago) had already been slain in the Mind of God eons “before the foundation of the world.” (I Peter 1:20)  Therefore, THE ATONEMENT (our at-one-ment with the Father) was a finished work ages even before it had started – long before it was recorded in the annals of human history.  Wow!

It follows, both logically and scripturally, that WE, too, have been “CHOSEN IN HIM BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD.” (Ephesians 1:4)  Just as our foreparents fell from grace and we, their generational offspring, have ultimately received redemption via the propitiation of Jesus Christ, we, too, have an open doorway to total restoration whenever we fail and fall from grace.  In the words of the Apostle John, “My little children, these things I write unto you, so that you may not sin.  And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” (I John 2:1)

What does this mean on a practical level?  I love the fact that God had (what we might label as) a ‘Plan B for Our Lives’ in Mind centuries before our nativity.  In a word, a Divine Contingency Plan for the actualization of our intended purpose and destiny was designed long before the foundation of the world.  This suggests that God does not treat the lives of true believers as casual cosmic experiments.  Indeed, the Divine Manufacturer has omnisciently and wisely incorporated our human flaws into His Heavenly Blueprint!  Truth is, we are already finished – and even our errors and missteps have been divinely factored into His end product.  Wow!

My sisters and my brothers, this clearly means that it is never too late for God to give us the courage to dream as little children again, i.e. to RECLAIM OUR VISION.  However, that will almost certainly involve “FORGETTING THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE BEHIND and reaching forward to those things which are ahead.” (Philippians 3:13) 

You are far too blessed to ever be distressed. You can be and do whatever your Creator has designed. My friend, I believe in you. But far more importantly, GOD BELIEVES IN YOU!

The question at hand is simply this: DO YOU BELIEVE IN GOD? If so, then believe what HIS WORD declares about YOU. Listen with your spirit. “All these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Blessed shall you be in the city…and blessed shall you be in the country...blessed shall be the fruit of your body…blessed shall be your basket and your store…blessed shall you be when you come in…and blessed shall you be when you go out. The Lord will cause your enemies to be defeated. The Lord will command the blessing on you and in all to which you set your hand.” (Deuteronomy 28:1-8)

RECAPTURE YOUR VISION AND YOUR DREAM.  DO IT TODAY!

Stay tuned…the final segment of this series will be posted on Friday.  For our next devotional, we will specially highlight the USA’s THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY.

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

CRAFTING YOUR UNIQUE LIFE-VISION (Part II)

CRAFTING YOUR UNIQUE LIFE-VISION (Part II)

We are all true VISIONARIES.  To master life and destiny, we must learn to SEE ourselves and our definite uniqueness.  God created each of us with extraordinary gifts.  The key to life is discovering, developing and deploying the primary reason for our being.  Bottom-line: YOU and I are on this planet for a DIVINE PURPOSE!

Let’s go further into the dynamic Kingdom Principles presented by the late great Dr. Myles Munroe:

KINGDOM PRINCIPLE #2:

“Vision is seeing the future now, and preparing to go there.”

The very fact that we were created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26) suggests that we were endowed at birth with great IMAGINATION, or the ability to SEE and CREATE our future.  Therefore, vision is the next best thing to time travel.  God gave us imagination so we can take a tour of our future, come back to our present, then prepare to go there!  To wit, God is always disappointed with small visions.  After all, He is a great and glorious God. 

Dr. Myles Munroe taught, “Give God something so big that He has to act like God to bring it to pass.”  Wow!  In the words my missionary mentor, Dr. John Haggai, “Dare to see a vision that is so large that it is doomed to failure, save God be in it.”  Wow!

One effective satanic distraction is to cause us to fixate on present day circumstances.  Seeing yourself as too small and your challenges as too great is a paralyzing activity.  The truth is that God gives great vision while we are still small because great things are born in obscure mangers.  Consider the advent of Jesus.  Think.

Everyone should craft a PERSONAL VISION STATEMENT.  Why?  Because VISION IS PURPOSE IN PICTURES.  But consider this: To have true vision, you must close your eyes – because the eyes are the greatest barrier to divine vision.  The most accomplished athletes take a moment prior to their performances to mentally envision success.  The alpine ski jumper SEES herself propelling gracefully from the mountain slope and sailing through the air with the greatest of excellence and ease. 

How do you SEE yourself…and how do you SEE your future?  Incidentally, if people laugh at your vision (at first), that is one wonderful clue that it just might be GOD-SIZED, i.e. super-naturally sized, and that you are right on track.  There must only one initial believer in a true vision; and that, my friend, is YOU.

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!

CRAFTING YOUR UNIQUE LIFE-VISION (Part I)

CRAFTING YOUR UNIQUE LIFE-VISION (Part I)

God created each and every one of us with extraordinary and unique gifts.  The key to life is discovering, developing and deploying them.  For so many, life becomes a meaningless and meandering journey to nowhere, simply because we have not yet encountered and embraced the primary reason for our being.

Now hear this: YOU are on this planet for a PURPOSE!

In God’s divine economy and efficiency, you would never have been created if something superbly special did not reside in your body, mind and spirit.  What you just might be lacking is a CLEAR VISION of who you are, what you will become and how you will be of enduring service to others.

For the next several days, we will highlight several dynamic Kingdom Principles presented by the late great Dr. Myles Munroe in March of 2004.

KINGDOM PRINCIPLE #1:

“Vision is seeing what GOD sees.”

To this end, my personal life-vision includes the phrase, “loving, learning and living, from GOD’S point-of-view.”  You and I are much more (infinitely more) than the natural elements that make up our human bodies.  In fact, we are supernatural in the sense that we have been endowed at birth with the “pneuma,” the living breath of Almighty God.  All too often, this key spiritual insight is ‘lost in the sauce’ of the hustle,  bustle and hassle of daily living.  In a word, our world has become fully addicted to ‘speed.’  We move much too fast.  We live much too fast.  We make decisions much too fast.  Memo to ourselves: “SLOW DOWN!”  We must pause long enough to seriously reflect on what GOD had in mind when He created us.  Surely, that is more than our daily nine-to-five, the next shopping expedition, or the material goods in our possession.

King Solomon penned these insightful words: “Where there is no VISION, the people perish.” (Proverbs 29:18)  Which is to say, if I am not SEEING what GOD sees in me, I am liable to destroy my destiny by drifting through life via a series of random, haphazard, knee-jerk actions that have no place in the mind or will of God.

My friend, GOD sees you.  Question:  Do YOU see you?

Think about it and stay tuned…more to come tomorrow.

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

GOD IS ALL THAT...AND MORE!

GOD IS ALL THAT…AND MORE!

Although, as a Christian, I do not personally subscribe to the tenets of Buddhism, there is one thing they do which deeply resonates with me.  When referring to the character or attributes of God, they occasionally say “He is that…and more.”  For example, if they say God is good, they might add “He is that…and more.”  If they say God is great, they may add “He is that…and more.”  In other words, human language cannot adequately describe or aptly ascribe the goodness and greatness of God.  I like that.

Various and sundry names for GOD are revealed in The Holy Writ for our enlightenment, edification and worship.  Each of these divine attributes are our Creator’s bountiful blessings that are available and accessible to every believer.  So prayerfully ponder and practice the presence of God.

GOD IS…“El Elyon,” The Most High God, and so much more. (Genesis 14:18)

GOD IS…“El Gibbor,” The Mighty God, and so much more. (Isaiah 9:6)

GOD IS…“El He,” The Living God, and so much more. (Joshua 3:10)

GOD IS…“Elohim Kedoshim,” A Holy God, and so much more. (Joshua 24:19)

GOD IS…“Elohe Ma’ozi,” God of my Strength, and so much more. (Psalm 43:2)

GOD IS…“El Shaddai,” The Mighty God, and so much more. (Genesis 17:1-2)

GOD IS…“Elohe Tseba’oth,” God of my Salvation, and so much more. (Psalm 18:46)

GOD IS…“Elohe Tsadeki,” God of my Righteousness, and so much more. (Psalm 4:1)

GOD IS…“Jehovah,” The Lord, and so much more. (Exodus 6:2-3)

GOD IS…“Adonai Jehovah,” The Lord God, and so much more. (Genesis 15:2)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Bara,” The Lord Creator, and so much more. (Isaiah 40:28)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Tiskenu,” The Lord our Righteousness, and so much more. (Jeremiah 23:6)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Ganan,” The Lord of our Defense, and so much more. (Psalm 89:18)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Rohi,” The Lord my Shepherd, and so much more. (Psalm 23:1)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Jireh,” The Lord our Provider, and so much more. (Genesis 22:14)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Kabodhi,” The Lord my Glory, and so much more. (Psalm 3:3)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Sel’i,” The Lord my Rock, and so much more. (Psalm 18:2)

GOD IS…“Jehovah M’gaddishcem,” The Lord our Sanctifier, and so much more. (Exodus 31:13)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Yasha,” The Lord my Savior, and so much more. (Isaiah 49:26)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Machsi,” The Lord my Refuge, and so much more. (Psalm 91:9)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Rapha,” The Lord that Heals, and so much more. (Exodus 15:26)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Magen,” The Lord my Shield, and so much more. (Deuteronomy 33:29)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Tsori,” The Lord my Strength, and so much more. (Psalm 19:14)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Misqabbi,” The Lord my High Tower, and so much more. (Psalm 18:2)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Sabaoth,” The Lord of Hosts, and so much more. (I Samuel 1:3)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Nissi,” The Lord our Banner, and so much more. (Exodus 17:15)

GOD IS…“Jehovah ‘Ori,” The Lord my Light, and so much more. (Psalm 27:1)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Mephalti,” The Lord my Deliverer, and so much more. (Psalm 18:2)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Shalom,” The Lord our Peace, and so much more. (Judges 6:24)

GOD IS…“Jehovah Shammah,” The Lord is There, and so much more. (Ezekiel 48:35)

OUR GOD IS INFINITELY MORE than any of us could ever comprehend or imagine.  And that is precisely why HE is “able to do exceedingly abundantly above ALL that we ask or think.” (Ephesians 3:20)  Make sure that your covenant connection is fundamentally intact and faithfully engaged 1) by believing on Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, 2) by reading, mediating, speaking, honoring and obeying His Word, and 3) by communing intimately with Him (daily) via prayer and worship.

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

IF JESUS CAME TO YOUR HOUSE

IF JESUS CAME TO YOUR HOUSE

We read a poem that stimulated family conversation, and thought it beneficial to share.

If Jesus came to your house
To spend some time with you,
If He came unexpected,
I wonder what you’d do.

Oh, I know you’d give your nicest room
To such an honored guest,
And all the food you’d give to Him
Would be the very best.

And you would keep assuring Him
You’re glad to have Him there–
That serving Him within your home
Is joy beyond compare.

But when you saw Him coming,
Would you meet Him at the door
With arms outstretched in welcome
To your heavenly visitor?

Or would you have to change your clothes
Before you’d let Him in?
Or hide some magazines
And put the Bible where they’d been?

Would you hide your worldly music
And put some hymn books out?
Could you let Jesus walk right in
Or would you rush about?

And I wonder – if the Savior
Spent a day or two with you,
Would you keep right on doing

The things you always do?

Would you go right on saying

The things you always say?
Would life for you continue
As it does from day to day?

Could you take Jesus with you
Everywhere you’d go?
Or would you have to change your plans

For just a day or so?

Would you be glad to have Him meet
Your dearest and closest friends?
Or would you hope they stay away
Until His visit ends?

Would you be glad to have Him stay
Forever and on and on?
Or would you sigh with great relief
When He at last was gone?

It might be interesting to know
The things that you would do,
If Jesus came in person

To spend some time with you.

It’s something to really think about.  In reality, JESUS IS HERE all the time.  Therefore, our entire lives, i.e. our relationships, our decisions, our attitudes and our actions should reflect a keen awareness of His constant presence.  According to Jesus Christ, “every idle word men shall speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.” (Matthew 12:36, NKJV) 

So let’s live like He is always present!

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

FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

Upon the death of Moses, Israel’s emancipator and law giver, God issued a specific directive to his successor, Joshua.  I am convinced that this covenant commandment is universal and trans-generational, i.e. it may be aptly applied to every believer in the Body of Christ.  Prayerfully consider its message and meaning:

Joshua 1:7-9 (NKJV)
Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law…do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go.  This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it.  For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.  Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.

Let’s briefly summarize this scriptural formula for success that is clearly set forth in the book of Joshua and other parts of The Holy Writ:

1) Be strong. (Ephesians 6:10)
2) Be courageous. (Psalm 27:14)
3) Be subject to divine order. (I Corinthians 14:40)
4) Be focused and steadfast. (I Corinthians 15:58)
5) Be a student of the Word. (Colossians 3:16)
6) Be fearless and joyful. (II Timothy 1:7)
7) Be engaged and equipped in the presence of God. (Ephesians 6:13)

Scripturally speaking, THIS IS YOUR BEST LIFE.  In truth, this is your only fulfilling life, regardless of what the media, popular culture, Christianity-Lite, or the new age movement might suggest.  At the end of our days, we will certainly be rewarded, but the metric for our divine commendation will have absolutely nothing to do with the fame or fortune we have garnered.

Rather, God’s judgment of us will be solely predicated upon whether we have FOLLOWED HIM – dutifully, freely and fully.  Solomon sums it up so succinctly: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13)

It's the only real measure of success.

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

THE WORDS OF A TRUE CHRISTIAN SERVANT: MOTHER TERESA

THE WORDS OF A TRUE CHRISTIAN SERVANT: MOTHER TERESA

George Wachirah of Kenya compiled the inspiring quotations of an extraordinary woman who personified exemplary service in the Kingdom of God.  She is known to the world simply as Mother Teresa of Calcutta.  Her words reflect the substantial commitment and substantive depth of her ministry to the lonely, the sick, the dying and the destitute. 

Mother Teresa’s agape love was manifested more so by her works, not merely in her words.  However, her spiritual insights are so powerful that a collection of selected teachings and quotations follow, clearly revealing her character and calling:

Every time you smile at someone, it is an act of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.

I have found a paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love.

If we want a love message to be heard, it has got to be sent out.  To keep a lamp burning, we have to keep putting oil in it.

Do not think that love, in order to be genuine, has to be extraordinary.  What we need is to love without getting tired.

Everybody today seems to be in such a terrible rush, anxious for greater developments and greater riches and so on, so that children have very little time for their parents, parents have very little time for each other, and within the home begins the disruption of the peace of this world.

It is easy to love people far away.  It is not always easy to love those close to us.  It is easier to give a cup of rice to relieve hunger than to relieve the loneliness and pain of someone unloved in our own home.  Bring love into your home for this is where our love for each other must start.

If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.

Let us always meet each other with a smile, for a genuine smile is the beginning of love.

Peace begins with a smile.

Spread love everywhere you go.  Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.

The biggest disease today is not leprosy or tuberculosis, but rather the feeling of being unwanted.

The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved.

The hunger for love is much more difficult to remove than the hunger for bread.

There is more hunger in the world for love and appreciation than for bread.  We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless.  The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty.  We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.

Good works are links that form a chain of love.

In this life we cannot do great things.  We can only do small things with great love.

In closing, it is my view that the world is in dire need of many more people who offer love sacrificially, like Mother Teresa.  Love in action is the true essence and significance of agape.  Mother Teresa’s message of love and hope lives on.  It is now up to all of us to continue.

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

PURPOSE IN THE PRESSURE

PURPOSE IN THE PRESSURE

A compassionate man carefully observed a butterfly cocoon that was attached to his window sill.  One day a small opening appeared in the cocoon, and he watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that tiny hole.  Eventually it seemed to stop making progress and it appeared as if it had traveled as far as it could go.

Seriously intent on helping the butterfly, the man retrieved his scissors and snipped away the remaining cocoon.  The butterfly then emerged rather easily.

However, it had a swollen body and small shriveled wings.  He continued watching the butterfly, expecting that at any moment the wings would grow much larger and the body swelling would subside.

Neither happened.  In fact, the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around with a swollen body and shriveled wings.  It would never be able to fly.

That well-intentioned man had acted in kindness, but also in haste because he simply did not understand the developmental process.  Although the restrictive cocoon presents a major challenge for the butterfly to work its way through a very tiny opening, divine purpose is always seeded inside apparent pressure!

The tiny opening in the cocoon is God’s way of forcing fluids trapped inside the body of the butterfly to move into its wings so they will become big enough and strong enough for flight.  Wow!

Since all truth is parallel, by extension we know that life’s struggles are precisely what we humans need to equip us to soar to heights unknown.  If God allowed us to go through life with total ease and no difficulty, it might merely cripple us and rob us of our ultimate purpose and destiny.  Just consider that modest lump of coal that was transformed (under pressure) into a magnificent diamond.  Apparent tragedies are divinely reconfigured into sheer triumph and testimony.   It's a process.

Is anybody out there ready to fly?  No doubt, there is something deep inside of you that needs to be released.  But before you head down that runway, be aware that your wings must become fully developed by the occasional struggles that show up in the form of pain or pressure.  My friend, there is life-giving purpose in the pressure.

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

LIFE PRINCIPLES

LIFE PRINCIPLES

According to Tony Peeris of India, here are a few principles to live by.  Perhaps you can make a connection with at least one or two.

--You won’t get a second chance to make a first impression.
--You will 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.
--Never take problems to your boss unless you have solutions.
--If you are not failing, you’re not taking enough risks.
--Don’t try to get rid of your bad temper by losing it.
--If at first you don’t succeed, skydiving is not for you.
--Those who don’t make mistakes usually don’t make anything.
--Pick battles big enough to matter, small enough to win.
--All progress has resulted from unpopular decisions.
--The best way to kill an idea is to take it to a meeting.

--Only those who do nothing do not make mistakes.
--Change your thoughts and you change your world.

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

KEEP IT MOVING!

KEEP IT MOVING!

My daughter, Kimberly Bass-Seaton, is a life coach and an administrator at a major university in Georgia.  In her coaching practice, she utilizes an acronym that has great significance as to how we should conduct our daily affairs.  Ironically, that acronym is also her abbreviated name, K.I.M., which stands for KEEP IT MOVING.  Her motto reminds me of the words of Benjamin Franklin.  He wrote, “All mankind is divided into three classes: those that are immovable, those that are movable, and those that move.”

So, keep it moving!

Rick Phillips writes, “Much of our life is like climbing a mountain.  Each year we have a new mountain to climb to reach our goals and we struggle to meet our progress expectations.  We have a choice.  We can grumble about how unfair it is to start over from the bottom of the mountain or we can just get busy.”

Sometimes, we stumble on the way up and we lose ground.  In a word, LIFE HAPPENS.

But we always have choices.  We can stop off at the nearest plateau and have a pity party, mumbling and grumbling about the progress we have lost, or we can plant our stake and begin to climb upwards again.

We can never start from where we WERE; we have to start where we ARE.  Otherwise, we will spend the rest of our lives looking at where we used to be and never find ourselves reaching the heights of our original goal.

Many waste time while worrying, ‘Will I ever reach my ultimate goal?’

That’s not the right question.  The question is, ‘Can I take my next step in the right direction?’

One day at a time.  One step at a time. The journey is just as important as the destination; perhaps, even more so. 

For today, set your sights on the very next objective that will take you in the direction of your ultimate dream.  Think about it.  Or, as one of my elementary school workbooks stated so succinctly and eloquently, “THINK AND DO!”

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

BEING THERE FOR SOMEONE ELSE

BEING THERE FOR SOMEONE ELSE

One of life’s most important lessons is learning not to be selfish, that is to exemplify and demonstrate genuine concern and empathy for the circumstances of others.  The following story by an unknown author aptly illustrates this principle.

My mother occasionally asked me a mysterious question: “What is the most important part of the body?”  Through the years I would take a guess at what I thought might be the correct answer. 

When I was much younger, I thought sound was very important to us as humans, so I responded, “My ears, Mommy.”

She replied, “No, son.  Many people are deaf and lead very positive and productive lives.  But you keep thinking about it and I will ask you again soon.”

Several years passed before she asked me again.  Ever since my first attempt, I had contemplated the correct answer.

So this time I told her, “Mommy, sight is very important to everyone, so it must be our eyes.”

She looked at me and told me, “You are learning fast, but the answer is not correct because there are many people who are blind.”

Stumped again, I continued my quest for knowledge and over the years, Mother asked me a couple more times and always her answer was, “No, son.  But you are getting smarter every year, my child.”

Then last year, my grandfather died.  Everybody was hurt.  Everyone was crying.  Even my father cried.  I remember that especially because it was only the second time I saw him cry.  My Mom looked at me when it was our turn to say our final goodbyes to Grandpa.

She asked me, “Do you know the most important body part yet, my dear?”

I was shocked when she asked me at that time.  I always thought this was just a game between her and me.

She saw the confusion on my face and told me, “This question is very important.  It shows that you have really lived in your life.  For each body part you gave me in the past, I have told you were wrong and I have given you an example why.  But today is the day you need to learn this important life lesson.”

She looked down at me as only a mother can, and I saw her eyes well up with tears. 

She said, “My dear, the most important body part is your shoulder.”

I asked, “Is it because it holds up my head?”

She replied, “No, it is because it can hold the head of a friend or loved one when they are crying.  Everybody needs a shoulder to cry on sometime in life.  I only hope that you have enough love from your family and friends that you will always have a shoulder to cry on whenever you need it.”

Then and there I knew the most important body part is not a selfish one.  It is an instrument of compassion, and it is always sympathetic to the pain of others.

Always remember to forge intimate connections along life’s journey, and never forget to be there in someone’s hour of need.

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

HAVE YOU PRAYED ABOUT IT?

HAVE YOU PRAYED ABOUT IT?

Before you allow yourself to stress, worry, fret, or complain, please ask yourself one simple question: Have you prayed about your situation…in a sincere, transparent, honest and faith-FULL manner?

Might I state the obvious truth?  Prayer changes people.  Prayer changes things.  And more things are resolved positively through faithful prayer than this world can possibly conceive.

So many times we confide, i.e. we place confidence in others to no avail.  At all costs, we must avoid placing total trust in fellow humans who occupy the same ship and state as we.  In the words of the Apostle Paul, “we…worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus…and have no confidence in the flesh.” (Philippians 3:3)

Nevertheless, there is a miraculous lifting of our physical, spiritual and emotional burdens whenever we “come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)

My friend, don’t pray and worry.

The Apostle Peter describes our ideal faith position, which is always fortified and actualized through the vehicle of prayer.  His prescription is as timeless and basic as it is effective: “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” (I Peter 5:7)

So today and tomorrow we will trust in HIM.

Belinda and I love to sing one of Brooklyn Tabernacle’s popular praise choruses during our family devotional time.  It goes something like this:  “I will trust in You, my God, my Provider.  I will trust in You, my Hope and my Friend.  You give me peace…you give me joy…for this I know…I will trust in You.”

YOU GIVE ME PEACE…YOU GIVE ME JOY…FOR THIS I KNOW…I WILL TRUST IN YOU!

In the words of Solomon, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NKJV)  Our parents had hung a plaque (verse 5) on our dining room wall as a constant reminder of our need to consult “the Author and Finisher of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:2)

Our God is faithful.  Our God is awesome.  Only believe.  My life verse breathes assurance at every turn in the road: “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)

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

JUGGLING CHAINSAWS

Editor’s Note: Belinda and I had a marvelous spiritual experience as we attended the International Holy Convocation of the Church of God in Christ in St. Louis, Missouri all last week. Our trip is the reason why I posted all of last week’s devotionals on the day prior to our departure.  We will re-commence daily postings at this point.  Thanks so much for your understanding and readership.  Be continually blessed!

JUGGLING CHAINSAWS

I read an intriguing essay by Marlene Buffa.  Rather creatively, her article addresses the complexities of modern-day life.  Ms. Buffa employs an unusual metaphor, i.e. “juggling chainsaws” as an apt description of how so many handle all the stuff and stress of life.  Read, reflect and enjoy.

Years ago, “Saturday Night Live” included a skit where Billy Crystal and Christopher Guest played blue collar workers discussing their masochistic habits.*  Describing painful physical events that were absurdly orchestrated, they grimaced and replied, “Ooh, I hate when that happens!”  The audience laughed heartily, not only because of the performers’ comedic talents, but because they recognized the irony of their own self-destructive behaviors.  

(*) Editor’s Note: “MASOCHISM” is gratification gained from pain imposed on oneself (or) the act of turning one’s destructive tendencies inward or upon oneself. [Source: Dictionary.com]

We, too, have our own chainsaws that we desperately try to juggle, and all too often we end up unwittingly grinding away at the solid trunk of our life’s foundation.  All too often, our peace and productivity is felled at our own hands, which wield the instruments of our self-destruction.

For many people, life has three major aspects which comprise daily existence: our work, our play and our relationships.  We opt to savor them one at a time, or we grab each precious experience by the handful, anxiously wondering how to make sense of it all.  One by one, we examine each component, and given the luxury of time and patience, we learn to fully appreciate the role of each aspect in our lives.

But what happens when we neglect two parts to actualize only one portion of life?  Sitting on the sideline, waiting for engagement, the other two neglected orbs of life try to operate on their own.  In truth, when we cannot handle each portion of life in equal balance, the neglected parts profoundly suffer.

We must learn how to focus.  More often than not, the loudest chainsaw in our lives gets the most attention, just as the squeaky wheel gets the grease.  When we find ourselves crying out loudly for healing of one aspect over another, we must recognize this imbalance and seek to correct it.  As in juggling, coordinating all areas of life requires skill, timing and constant attention.  Struggling to keep all parts of ourselves active and alive requires tireless effort which might eventually lead to fatigue, but focusing on one portion over another ultimately produces the failure of the whole.

But here’s the problem.  Juggling itself produces no results.  Look at your life.  In what ways is your life enriched by your constant attention to making everything always turn out neat and even?  Life just doesn’t work that way.  It’s not all neat…not all even…not all beautiful.  We must learn to take the good with the bad, and not get so lost in the process of juggling that we forget to enjoy every day that is afforded us.

When things are good, they don’t require much juggling.  Only perceived difficulties require shifting to avoid our feeling bad too long with any one thing.  We do not hear too much about juggling and struggling when we are experiencing perfect health, happiness and abundance.  Even so, as humans, we tend to interject ‘drama’ and find a reason to experience those “I hate when that happens” moments at our own expense.

Take a close look to see what you are actually juggling in life; you might discover an absurd struggle!  You see, misery requires focus, energy and perpetual motion to exist.  Never be afraid to evaluate your success in these three aspects of life.  WHY are you juggling, on what are you focusing (hence creating more of the same), and WHAT are you juggling, i.e. how does it show up in your life?  Someday you may realize the thing in your life you’ve desperately tried to keep in motion is not anything you ever wanted or needed.  If it doesn’t empower you and others, move forward, drop it, and be happy that it happened.  You just might have been juggling chainsaws – and that’s quite dangerous.

Many thanks are extended to Ms. Buffa for sharing so eloquently with us.  Moreover, I would add an additional and all-important life ingredient for our consideration, which is THE SPIRITUAL ASPECT OF LIFE.  While we are attending to our relationships, our work and our play, WE MUST NEVER NEGLECT OUR SPIRITS, which will significantly impact all other areas in a most profound, personal and permanent way. What do you think?

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

EDITOR'S NOTE

EDITOR'S NOTE: 
Devotionals for the period commencing (Monday) November 4 and ending (Friday) November 8 are posted in advance due to our convocation participation.

THE TRANSFORMING POWER OF LOVE (Part V)

THE TRANSFORMING POWER OF LOVE (Part V)

The primary evidence of genuine Christianity is the believer’s demonstration of love.  Christ declares, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35, NKJV) 

Since JESUS CHRIST is the ultimate manifestation of divine love, our definition of love is connected to His person and work.  To wit, LOVE IS THE CHRIST-ANOINTING – spiritually activated in our thoughts, attitudes, words, decisions, actions and ministries – for the express purpose of transforming lives, increasing faith, restoring relationships and authenticating witness.

It is truly liberating to realize that Satan has only ‘three tricks’ up his demonic sleeve!  His power is actually limited, not unlimited like God’s power, and by extension, it is less than our spiritual authority when we walk in divine power.  According to I John 2:15-16, “ALL” that Satan has within this world system is 1) the lust of the FLESH, 2) the lust of the EYES, and 3) the PRIDE of life.

Genesis 3:6 informs us that Satan gained the upper hand over our fore-parents by launching these three carnal weapons.  “When the woman saw the tree was good for food [the lust of the flesh] and that it was pleasant to the eyes [the lust of the eyes] and a tree to be desired to make one wise [the pride of life], she took the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.” (Genesis 3:6)

Moreover, Satan strategically deployed these same temptations against Jesus.  However, he was patently unsuccessful in doing so.  Following Jesus’ 40-day fast in wilderness (Matthew, chapter 4), He was systematically tempted of Satan via 1) a command to turn stones into bread [the lust of the flesh], 2) a suggestion to throw himself down from the pinnacle of the temple so that angels would be dispatched to rescue and reveal His glory [the pride of life], and 3) a deceitful promise that he would be given all the kingdoms of the world that Satan had shown to Him [the lust of the eyes].  This final temptation was sheer lunacy since “the earth is [already] the Lord’s [property] and the fullness thereof.” (Psalm 24:1)

Nevertheless, how did JESUS respond to satanic temptation?  Not by entering into dialogue with the devil…not by any ostentatious display of divine power…but by immediately dispatching His primary weapon (and ours), which is THE WORD OF GOD.  HE ASSIGNED A SPECIFIC WORD TO EVERY SATANIC TEMPTATION, thus dismissing and overcoming it.  Wow!  We too walk in this same covenant of victorious faith.  Listen with your spirit to what THE WORD has to say about YOU and your capacity to overcome:

II Corinthians 10:4 (NKJV)

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,

I John 5:4 (NKJV)

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.

OUR GOD, Who is love personified, offers ten specific promises to every winner-believer who OVERCOMES.  Because of our faithfulness, 1) We will eat from the tree of life (Revelation 2:7);  2) We will not be hurt by the second death (Revelation 2:11);  3) We will eat of the hidden manna (Revelation 2:17);  4) We will be given a white stone with a name inscription known only to God and the receiving believer (Revelation 2:7);  5) We will be given power over the nations (Revelation 2:26);  6) We will be clothed in white garments (Revelation 3:5);  7) We will be confessed by Christ before the Father and the angels (Revelation 3:5);  8) We will dwell forever in the temple of God (Revelation 3:12);  9) We will be personally inscribed with the name of God and the New Jerusalem (Revelation 3:12); and finally, 10) We will inherit all things as the children of God. (Revelation 21:7)

All of these benefits are made available with the simple conditions that we accept His covenantal gift of grace, which is the sacrificial atonement of God in Christ, and that we remain faithful to Him, i.e. to following His Word. (John 10:21 and Revelation 2:10)

This is possible ONLY because of (and by way of) GOD’S TRANSFORMING LOVE.  The Apostle Peter put it this way: “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” (II Peter 1:3-5)

Once we have been thus transformed, it is our signal honor to become “stewards of the mysteries of God” (I Corinthians 4:1) – with the distinct privilege of serving as AMBASSADORS OF THE KING OF KINGS within this fallen world system.  LOVE TRANSFORMS and infuses life into dying souls and dire circumstances.  So ask yourself this vitally important question: “WHAT AM I DOING TO EXEMPLIFY AND SHARE GOD’S TRANSFORMING LOVE?”  Now get busy fulfilling the promise and power of God that is seeded in you!

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

THE TRANSFORMING POWER OF LOVE (Part IV)

THE TRANSFORMING POWER OF LOVE (Part IV)

The primary evidence of genuine Christianity is the believer’s demonstration of love.  Jesus Christ declares, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35, NKJV) 

Since JESUS CHRIST is the ultimate manifestation of divine love, our theological definition of love is directly connected to His person and work.  LOVE IS THE CHRIST-ANOINTING – spiritually activated in our thoughts, attitudes, words, decisions, actions and ministries – for the express purpose of transforming lives, increasing faith, restoring relationships and authenticating witness.

As the express manifestation of God and the epitome of divine love, JESUS CHRIST breaks the vicious cycle of sin, tears down the wall of separation between God and man, and gains absolute victory over this satanically influenced world system.  In the words of The Anointed One, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NKJV)  The Word declares that as JESUS IS in the world, SO ARE WE, who follow Him closely as WINNER-BELIEVERS!

I love to speak about “THE CHRIST ANOINTING” because you and I, as winner-believers, have the exact same spiritual authority and spiritual anointing that Christ walked in and demonstrated daily.  YOU AND I have CHRIST’S ANOINTING…which is the YOKE-DESTROYING…BURDEN-REMOVING…POWER OF GOD!

To fully apprehend the OVERCOMING ANOINTING that JESUS IS (and we have deposited within), we need to look briefly at how humankind failed to overcome when originally tempted by Satan.  Then, we will contrast this with the manner in which JESUS handled satanic temptation and achieved absolute victory.

Prayerfully consider the following scripture passage:

Genesis 3:1-7 (New King James Version, NKJV)

¹ Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made.  And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden’?”

² And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; 

³ but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’”

⁴ Then the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. 

⁵ For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

⁶ So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate.  

⁷ Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings.

Fortunately for us, Satan has only ‘three tricks’ up his demonic sleeve!  His power is actually limited, not unlimited like God’s power, and by extension, less than our spiritual authority to walk in divine power.  I John 2:15-16 admonishes us to avoid falling in love with this world system, and further informs us of its basic limitations.  The Apostle John writes, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.  If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  For ALL that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.”

Let’s seek to understand this more fully.  Since Satan is “the prince of the power of the air,” he is the prince and the power of this world system. (Ephesians 2:2)  Nevertheless, John informs us that, Satan’s position notwithstanding, he has only three weapons in this world system that can be deployed against us.  Only three!  “ALL” that Satan has in this world system is the lust of the FLESH, the lust of the EYES and the PRIDE of life.

Question: How did Satan use these three worldly weapons to gain advantage over Adam and Eve?  Answer: Genesis 3:6 states “When the woman saw the tree was good for food (the lust of the flesh) and that it was pleasant to the eyes (the lust of the eyes) and a tree to be desired to make one wise (the pride of life), she took the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.”

That is precisely how our fore-parents failed to overcome.  Next time, we will discover how Satan deployed these same temptations against Jesus and totally failed.  Stay tuned…more to come tomorrow.

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