Although we do not know the day or the hour that our Lord will return we are to prepare by spending time in His Word, embracing it within our hearts and implementing it within our daily lives. Then at the appointed time we can look forward to beholding the Glory of our Lord! Praise God & Thank You Lord that we are saved by His marvelous grace! No matter whatever happens here on earth GOD’S promises remain and are ALL TRUE! If you turn to the last book of the Bible which is Revelation, turn to chapter (22) twenty two, scroll down to the very end you will find these words; “The Grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen!” Revelation 22:21 We as believers should daily Thank God for His amazing grace! Lord Bless & Keep You! & Everyday forever more! “TO GOD BE THE GLORY!”

Spending Time With God

Spending time with God is one of the most important things you can do. If you read the Scriptures you will find that even Jesus often took time alone to spend with the FATHER! Spending time with God will help you how to respond properly or not to respond at all to others. Spending time with Him yields patience and understanding. The wonderful thing about God is that He has provided so many ways to continually enhance our personal relationship with Him. He has given us His Holy Spirit to lead and guide us to all truth! He has given us His Holy Word to teach us and equip us to do whatever He has planned for our lives. He has even provided spiritual armor to protect us from evil. To even tell us when we are right or wrong! His Word also gives us directions as to what not to do! His Word teaches us how and when to stand in the midst of spiritual warfare! The scripture tell us “trust in the Lord will all thine heart and lean not to your own understanding, in all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct our paths.” He has given us His precious Son Jesus, who will be your personal Savior once you truly invite Him into your heart. It is in Him you will always find victory!

The book of Galatians clearly tells us; “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh, and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.” Christ lived a sinless life! Christ became flesh! He conquered sin in the flesh so He could be our example! He died for us! He did not die for us to continue to make excuses for our shortcomings. When we accept Him as Lord and Savior we are able to rely on Him to “save us from the power of sin in our life”. A truly dedicated life to God will result in an increased ability to exercise self-control! Spending time with God will help you to discern between good and evil. To be as “wise as a serpent and as harmless as a dove!” God is aware of everything. He is omniscient! It does not matter how things appear or seem. Neither does it matter when everyone else pretends everything is okay when something is terribly wrong! God knows how things really are! In the midst of a declining world you can still enjoy a wholesome clean life. Spending time with God will also teach and direct you how to be a good steward of the things and people He entrusts to your care! His Word also tells us “He will supply all of your needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus! God is a Spirit of TRUTH!

Paul also warns us of false teachings. Spending time with God will help you recognize those who pervert the Gospel of Christ! He even goes so far to tell us that they use it for a license of licentiousness. Which merely means to excuse their loose behavior? He tells us to not receive the message regardless of the person or position. I encourage you to study God’s Word. Listen closely when some one says they have a message from God. Allow the Holy Spirit to sift its contents and validate its Truth. Just ask yourself how often did Jesus talk about how many horses or chariots someone had? How many suits of clothing did Joseph, Priscilla and Aquilla or anyone else for that matter possess? How much money it took to feed the multitudes? I don’t think that Jesus told the woman at the well that He “loved her and all of her faults”. He told her “TO GO AND SIN NO MORE!” Furthermore are you spiritually enriched by the message? Have you been provoked to good works or spiritual growth? Or do you just continue to feel content in disobedience?

Jesus said “If you abide in My Word, you are my disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and truth shall make you free.” Jesus also tells us in His Word; “whoever commits sin is a slave to sin. And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. Therefore if the Son makes you free you shall be free indeed.” The point that I am trying to make is Christ died to make us free! Spending time with God will give you freedom! We must commence embracing a Christ centered life! Christ took back the power the enemy stole! God’s Word really is “a lamp unto our feet and a light unto out path.” Paul goes further to say “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let Him be accursed.” There is much spiritual warfare about us! This is really not a game! We are living in the perilous times that the bible talks about! Please do not settle for a life that pleases man. Commence to really put God first in your life! Man’s approval is not necessary to accomplish God’s will in your life. He will and can make your path straight! God is the source of everything you possibly need to accomplish whatever He has for you to do.

Spending time with God will yield much peace. It will also consecrate your heart and your conscious! God will teach you how to guard your heart! You see God is a Spirit of Truth! I am thankful for His presence in my life! The devil is the father of lies! Deception and trickery are not a part of God’s fruit. Many are greatly deceived. I encourage you to spend some time reading Exodus. It is fear-provoking to know how much time they spent consecrating themselves for worship. They had reverence and deep respect for God. Worshipping God was sacred! Today it is not necessary for many. Many see worship as a time for them to “stand up for their gifts.” In times past God’s presence was earnestly welcomed. God is all knowing! God is truly Holy! God said that the true worshippers “worship Him in Spirit and in TRUTH!” I thank Him that I can freely lift my hands to thank and praise Him for the freedom He has given me.

Spending time with God will teach you how to properly navigate through this world of sin! Spending time with Jesus allows you to be calm in the midst of spiritual warfare. Jesus quite often did not respond to His accusers! You see many times just enough detail was omitted to prohibit the real truth from coming out. They sought to discredit His sincerity. More often than not a one sided story was and is embraced as truth! God is Light in Him is no darkness. “Perfect Love casts out all fear!” Just know it is more important what God knows rather than what others think! We must stand for the TRUTH! Jude tells us to contend for the faith! We must measure what is being taught against the Word of God. There are many false teachers who are misleading those who really need to hear the Gospel! He tells us “ these are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts, and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage. But you beloved remember the words which were spoken before the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; how they told you that their would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. These are sensual persons who cause division, not having the Spirit.” Jude ends telling us “Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding JOY!”

It is very easy to become attached to a spiritual leader. When one has helped you it is natural to feel loyalty. Especially when you have confided in them. Paul warns us against having such pride in our favorite leaders that causes divisions in the church. The Corinthian Church for an example was a very carnal church. It continually indulged in the immorality that was practiced culturally. The culture of that day embraced a temple of prostitution. The Corinthians needed specific instructions because of their immoral standards. Paul tells us “the body is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.” It was because of their carnality that Paul continuously warned them! It is spiritually dangerous to create an environment that embraces sin and labels it unconditional love. That really worships God in flesh and half truths!

Paul encourages us to imitate Christ because He himself spent time with God and walked closely with Him. I would like to encourage you to commit to spend at least 10 minutes of time alone with God each day! Just you and God with no distractions! Learn how to “ Be still and Know”. Start your personal devotion with prayer & Thanksgiving to give you the proper focus. Then just quietly discipline yourself to listen. To be still. Watch how someone or something tries to distract you. Please do not give up. (You see the enemy is so clever at distracting you.) Remember the idea is to exercise discipline. Increase your time gradually with God. This will also enhance your personal Bible Study time. I assure you any burden you might have will begin to lift. You see God really is a burden bearer. Honoring God by spending time with Him will give you direction. You cannot change anything that has happened but you can begin to really “walk in the light.” End your time Thanking Him for all He has done. Remember when you pray you must obey. To Love God is to obey Him! God’s Word is true!

We too must stand on the Word of God even when we are called anything but a child of God! Spending time with God and obeying His commandments will free you from sinful strongholds! I am thankful that God has provided us with many gifted men and women of God who are committed to spreading the true Gospel! They take seriously their responsibility to present Biblical Truth. A true spiritual leader is a representative of Christ. and has nothing to offer that God has not already given him or her! Loyalty should not cause strife, or slander. The truth can disable slander! God really is a Spirit of Truth! Our deepest loyalties should be to Christ and not to human agents! Those who spend more time debating the importance of church leadership than declaring Christ’s message don’t have Christ as their first priority. God’s Word clearly tells us “that we should not go beyond what is written. Spending time with God will cause you to attach yourself to God, rather than a spiritual leader. Commence to spend time with God “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to thine own understanding in all thy ways acknowledge HIM and HE shall direct your path”. When you spend time with God you shall know the TRUTH, and the TRUTH shall make you free!

Water On Mars ? Of Course – It’s In The WORD!

Read article on CNN – Rover finds evidence of ancient water on Mars

When I read this article on CNN.com, I said to myself isn’t GOD GREAT!. Its just like HIM to allow the scientist to discover just how true his WORD is. I wasn’t surprised at all to learn they discoverd water on Mars. I expected it. Why ? Read the Creation Story in the Book of Genesis and note the following:

Genesis 1: 1-7
1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. 2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. 3 And God said , Let there be light: and there was light. 4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. 5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day. 6 And God said , Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters. 7 And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.

In other words, God placed water below and above the “sky”. It’s in the WORD!.

JESUS Is The WAY! The TRUTH And The Life!

JESUS Is The WAY! The TRUTH And The Life!

Can I be certain that the Bible is true? How many ways is it to Heaven? Can I get to heaven just by being good? Do I have to believe in Jesus Christ? Do you know where you will spend eternity? What does it mean to say; The Lord is my Shepherd?

These are a few of the multitude of questions that many ask? Many are rather confused? I pray that after you read this you will better understand the answers to the above questions!

What is the point and why all the confusion? The confusion comes and many are bewildered because so few take the time to actually know the Word of God for themselves, nor proceed to develop an ongoing personal relationship with Him. They often take second hand information without considering the source and realizing it just might not be the Word? It is really important to know the Word of God for yourself!

What is also a bit alarming; is that there is so much of the Word that is being pushed aside and replaced by old wise fables and tales by Christians… Many opt to determine what is right for them simply based on how they feel and have been erroneously taught. Much ms-information is passed down and becomes accepted as truth… often reflecting an unfavorable picture of the Lord and His Word! What is popular or the latest trends determine how one lives rather than upon the Word of God…

Did you know that tradition can be anything you decide? There are many traditions that are first-rate and quite beneficial. But whenever the principle it teaches is contrary to the Word of God it should be abandoned. It is always GOOD to be Thankful to GOD! God never intended for Christianity to be reduced to a legalistic list of rules, to a tradition nor just another religion or something practiced on Sunday… Christianity was meant to be an everyday lifestyle. Jesus Christ came to show us the Way!

No wonder so many are lost! Rather than follow His directions, many opt to just do their own thing! Think about this for a minute. If you knew me well and trusted me and I gave you directions how to get somewhere and you are guaranteed to arrive there safely, would you follow them? Or would you say Hmm I’m not so sure I’ll ask someone else or I will find the way myself? You may eventually get there but in the meantime you have chosen the tedious path laden with anxiety and uncertainty rather than… Believe me! Do you really believe the Word?

Jesus Christ is the Son of God! As a matter of fact: “For GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever BELIEVES in HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life. For GOD did not send His Son in the world to condemn the world. but that the world may be SAVED!” JOHN 3. He is door to Heaven and there is no other way to the Father!

Jesus has already prepared the Way! But in order to stay on or get on the right path we must follow His directions! “Do not let your hearts be troubled, TRUST in GOD! TRUST also in ME! In My Father’s house are many rooms, if it were not so, I would not have told you, I am going to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I WILL COME BACK and take you to be with ME that you may also be where I am…” John 14. Prepare: JESUS IS COMING BACK!

Let’s allow our spiritual minds to take the forefront and ask the Lord to open our spiritual ears and camp here a moment! Is your heart troubled? Have you made a bad decision? Has someone lied on you? Is your mind confused? Are you or a love one physically or mentally ill? Have you been given some bad news? Are you uncertain about your future?

Well I have some “GOOD NEWS!” Jesus has already prepared a Way! All His Word is true! It is okay to analyze and assess to a degree what is going on and take a look at what is happening in your life… But in order to see your way through or out of a situation clearly you must learn to TRUST JESUS!

No matter how much we plan; things can and will still happen that are beyond our control. Therefore you cannot put all your TRUST in something you see. Upon accepting Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, God has given us an inner compass to guide us! Regardless as to where you are, what is happening or what has happened your way out is through Him! The first place you must turn is to GOD! If you are a believer you have been given His Holy Spirit as a Comforter! Belief in Him and in HIS Word is supremely paramount for safe travel on the narrow road! “Seek first the Lord and HIS kingdom and HIS righteousness and ALL these things will be given to you as well…” Matthew 6. You must seek Him or begin to seek Him above all else!

If you do not know Him start now! If you have grown slack in your commitment to His will in your life recommit! Sincerely confess that you are a sinner and you are sorry for the sin in your life that separates you from Him. Let Him know now you want to turn your life over to Him. You want to draw closer to Him and invite Jesus into your heart! You want your life to be different and you want to learn more about Jesus Christ and His plan of salvation… You want to learn how to trust Him…

Why is that? If you are trusting in something you can see or figure out then it is not FAITH! “Now FAITH is being SURE of what we HOPE for and certain of what we do not see…” Hebrews 11. What is key here is being sure and certain! It is so important that you develop your very own personal and intimate relationship with the Lord! Know God so well that when anyone tells you something, you are able to discern or you can go to the Word and find out for yourself if it is of HIM!

The Greek word for faith is pistis! Faith is being confident in a reliable source!

There is so much spiritual warfare designed to get you off track on to the broad road where there are so many travelers that it appears it is the right direction. Have you ever noticed when there is a lot of traffic you must drive much more carefully! You must pay closer attention to where you are going. If you don’t you can easily miss your turn, or have an accident…

GOD is who He says He is!

When we confess Jesus Christ as our personal Savior we enter the spiritual realm of belief. Not just any belief but we actually profess we believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. This does not mean we merely join a spiritual social club and are then just indoctrinated to a particular denomination or non – denomination. It goes much deeper than that? Yes it is wise to pursue a place of worship where the Word of God is being taught! You need to fellowship with other Christians who are able to properly spiritually nourish you! It is important to know and understand that you have made a commitment to live God’s way! What are you saying…

The Greek Word for believe is pisteuo. Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved. We are saved by Grace through FAITH not works!

When you become a Christian you embark on a spiritual journey that is a lifelong process of spiritual growth. This is just the beginning… Wherever you are in your life you now must begin to go forward in the Lord! You cannot undo anything that has transpired in your life! There is nothing that God is not aware of! Now you must get to know Him as your Creator and Sustainer of life on a personal level. You must become familiar with His voice! You must learn to “Be STILL and KNOW!” You are now to travel on the narrow road that is less traveled!

You have been given the gift of His Holy Spirit that resides within you!

Faith is an action word! You must step out on FAITH! In order to feel the impact of His Spirit’s presence you must sincerely ask to be filled daily by inviting Him into your day to day life. Throughout the day you can actually become cognizant and reconnect when you feel yourself shifting… You must take the necessary steps to develop an ongoing personal intimate relationship with Him.

Wherever you are God knows! Wherever you have been and whatever you have done God knows that too. GOD LOVES YOU! It is important to know that you have entered into a spiritual war zone. There are powers & principalities that be who desires to tempt you away from GOD an wreak havoc upon your life! The world at large is hostile to believers! Once you become strong in the FAITH you threaten their system of embracing whatever is popular… Thinking outside of the box they have prepared for you is not welcomed… So prepare for opposition! But our weapons are not carnal! Think about Jesus, who was sinless and how they conspired against Him… He was not readily accepted by the very ones He came to help! His motives were always questioned and He was slandered, called everything but a child of God! They even used someone that was supposedly close to Him to betray Him… Jesus as well as His disciples endured harassment, ridicule and undue mistreatment. Yes, we too must go through some things…! So do not be surprised like Peter tells us; “In this greatly REJOICE, though now for a little while you may have to suffer grief in all kinds of trails – These have come so that your FAITH – of greater worth than gold, which perished even though refined by fire – may be proved GENUINE and may result in Praise, Glory, and Honor Jesus Christ when revealed.” I Peter 1.

No need to be afraid, but you must begin to be aware of what is going on. Pray for spiritual discernment! Peter shares with us how important it is to know what lies ahead! He knew you can expect persecution from just about anyone including at times your own family…”If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” John 15. Is it becoming any clearer why you need to know the Word for yourself?

Update 7/21/13: Read this CNN Article “Losing Christ and Finding Jesus”. See why in this 21st Century it is so important to Know The Lord For Yourself, for there is no way to “Lose Christ and Find Jesus”, for in the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD. And the WORD became flesh (Jesus Christ).

Where Does God Dwell?

GOD Dwells In The Hearts of HIS People!

Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. We in America have a freedom that you just don’t find in the rest of the world. We have freedom of speech, freedom to vote, freedom to live and go where and when we please. But most importantly we have the freedom to worship. There are many types of worship services but there is only one true God. The only way to worship Him is in Spirit and Truth. On our many journeys throughout the world the LORD has allowed us to see many marvelous things. On them all the presence of the LORD has been apparent.

Journey to Athens Greece

On our trip to Athens Greece and Istanbul Turkey I was able to see some of the world’s most exquisite architecture. Turkey is a country that is 95% Moslem. In Turkey there is the renowned Hagia Sophia Cathedral. It was built for the Christian community to reflect the beauty that Solomon’s Temple once beheld. In spite of its elaborate intricate handiwork full of gold mosaic tiles, marble and brick walls, it is now a museum. Lord Help us!!!

What is so amazing Ephesus is one of the (7) seven churches the Apostle John wrote to in the Book of Revelation. He says: “I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and has found them liars.  And hast borne, and hast patience; an for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first Love.   Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen and REPENT, AND DO THE FIRST WORKS, OR ELSE I WILL COME UNTO THEE QUICKLY, AND REMOVE THY CANDLESTICK OUT OF THIS PLACE EXCEPT THOU REPENT!”   Revelation 2

How interesting that in the Book of Revelation the Apostle John sternly writes to the Church in Ephesus to tell them; “…thou has left thou first Love!” Keep in mind that during this 10th century persecution is also at an all time high. Take notice here. Yet despite all that the Church at Ephesus was doing  at this time John still adamantly tells the CHURCH TO REPENT!!!

Ephesus still contains various artifacts derived from Greek mythology and its continence is a shadow of it’s once intended purpose. This is also why REPENTANCE IS STILL SO IMPORTANT! Ironically across from it is the beautifully kept Sultanahmet mosque. Its known as the Blue mosque due to an extravagant array of blue mosaic tiles. Adorned with its intricate splendor and stately statueous marble columns and stained glass windows. It is scrupulously maintained and it is a place of worship for the Moslem community. Turkey is full of ornately designed mosques and Mohammed is whom they worship.

Where the SPIRIT of the LORD is there IS LIBERTY!

Words cannot express my gratitude to God for the things my eyes have beheld. The scriptures continuously came to my mind as I/we walked through the Hagia Sophia. “God does not dwell in a temple made by hand’s” In His time; “God is coming back for a CHURCH without spot or wrinkle.” “It is in HIM we live & move and have our being…” Acts 17 “Where the SPIRIT of the LORD is there is liberty…” When CHRIST JESUS returns; ” We will be caught up to meet HIM in the air…”  You cannot ever confine GOD & HIS majestic magnificent omnipresence to the confines of a structure made by human hands no matter how large.

Yes, we can worship the Lord within the walls… But it is clear that we can worship the Lord wherever we are inside or outside.  Christ Jesus preached prayed and taught from a boat, within houses, from the base of a mountain, in a garden, by a well, upon the roads, and numerous other venues. Standing behind a pulpit is not the only way to preach! It is your choice. Jesus nor His Apostles/Disciples built places of worship. Know that it is also your choice to build a place of worship, is not a requirement.  You can preach & proclaim to one, few or many… We have had the opportunity to teach, preach, proclaim, pray & worship in a plethora of places of worship throughout the world. There is nothing I enjoy more than a Spirt-filled Worship & Praise Service. But remember GOD’S CHURCH consists of HIS people from ALL over this world. We the people are HIS CHURCH! 

GOD LIVES IN the HEARTS of HIS PEOPLE

Hagia Sophie Istanbul Turkey

God lives within the hearts of HIS people that have accepted HIS SON JESUS CHRIST into their hearts as SAVIOR & LORD!!! Our bodies are the Temple of the Living God. We must ask continuously for the infilling presence of HIS HOLY SPIRIT! There is absolutely no doubt in my mind to the unmerited grace the Lord has bestowed upon all of us. Truly the Lord Is patient, loving & kind.  No one really has to tell GOD anything. For He knows absolutely everything about everyone and everything past, present & future.  GOD cannot ever be manipulated or fooled.

I have discovered that many really do not believe GOD is Omniscient. When you truly do you will be, live and think differently!  You will also reverentially fear GOD. Abba Heavenly Holy Father Thank You for setting us FREE!!!

I am forever thankful that we had a most interesting journey. The one thing the tour guide who was of Moslem decent (in Turkey along with our guide we were required to have a Turkish guide as well) said that stuck with me was; “Why would a powerful God allow His Temple to be turn into a museum?”  I would not let him undermine who GOD IS! I could not help but respond and say; GOD IS AWESOME! HE IS THE ONLY TRUE GOD! But know this; “GOD is not like man. HE does not live in a temple made by the hands of man…” GOD IS A SPIRIT!  The tour guide was surprised and speechless!

My point is and was God is so gracious and kind that He allows us so much freedom. He even gives us the freedom to choose who or what we want to worship and where. You can enjoy places and things without worshipping them.  God wants HIS true worshipers to Worship HIM everyday; “In SPIRIT & in TRUTH!” Whenever or wherever I lift up Holy Hands, to Him and Him only my heart is eternally grateful.  I will bow to none other. It is by His Grace and His Grace alone are we saved. We are not SAVED by our works or anything we do…

SALVATION IS A PRECIOUS GIFT FROM GOD! HOWEVER, EACH OF US MUST TRULY ACCEPT CHRIST JESUS INTO OUR HEARTS AS SAVIOR & LORD. KEEP IN MIND, JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY TO HEAVEN! PRAISE GOD FOR SALVATION & ETERNAL LIFE with HIM! GOD IS TRULY WORTHY of ALL THE GLORY, HONOR & PRAISE! ABOVE ALMIGHTY GOD there is no other. Our GOD IS OMNIPOTENT, OMNISCIENT & OMNIPRESENT!

Journey to Ephesus

In Turkey is the city of Ephesus. There are miles and miles of ruins. We were warned to not even take dirt or stones from the ground and cautioned about strict possible imprisonment penalties as well.  The area we visited had many restrictions. There right before us were original artifacts, columns, ruins etc. and remains to testify to the fact Ephesus existed. To this day approximately only 10% of it has been uncovered. It is still currently under excavation. Primitive hand tools are used in order to carefully preserve whatever archeological finds are uncovered. This was such a memorable experience to see and witness.

The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Ephesians to the church at Ephesus. Just look at God! Despite the fact Turkey is a Moslem country Ephesus remains a monument to Christians of God’s eternal presence, grace and mercy.

Some of my most invigorating spiritual enlightening moments were spent in Athens Greece. Here I hold dear to heart many cherished memories. We together walked up the steep incline to the Acropolis saturated with aged columns made of marble. The Parthenon and majestic ruins were filled with slippery marble laden paths. The highlight was when I observed my husband humbly climb on his hands & knees up “Mars Hill!” The infamous hill that the Apostle Paul speaks about in the book of Acts. How interesting when we approached Mars Hill there was a woman preaching to a congregation out in the open, under the beautiful canopy of the blue skies. It was a beautiful sight.  We take the “CALL” upon our lives seriously. Once my Pastor/husband determined it was safe I too climbed up on my hands and knees to meet him and we together Worshiped, Praised & Thanked the Lord for ALL HE has done, for ALL HE is doing and for ALL WE KNOW THAT HE WILL DO!

The Book of Acts teaches us; “AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS IN THE LAST DAYS SAITH GOD, I WILL  POUR OUT OF MY SPIRIT UPON ALL FLESH; AND YOUR SONS AND YOUR DAUGHTERS SHALL PROPHESY, AND YOUR YOUNG MEN SHALL SEE VISIONS, AND YOUR OLD MEN SHALL DREAM DREAMS: AND ON MY HANDMAIDENS I WILL POUR OUT IN THOSE DAYS OF MY SPIRIT; AND THEY SHALL PROPHESY:  AND I WILL SHOW WONDERS IN HEAVEN ABOVE, AND SIGNS ON THE EARTH BENEATH, BLOOD, AND FIRE, VAPOR AND SMOKE…”ACTS 2 

Journey to “MARS HILL!”

Paul spoke concerning an altar with an inscription representing the unknown god on Mars Hill. That unknown God happens to be the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob I love, worship and adore.  For HE is the Father of us as well.  He is the only true and living God. He is truly the Great “I AM!” The Lord is Jehovah Raah meaning; My Shepherd! Mars Hill today is in a magnificent open place. High above Athens Greece for all to see. (I will forever cherish what it felt like sitting there and praising God for all He has done!!!)

I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL! Mars Hills grand walls and canopy are the very blue firmament that God Himself spoke into existence through His Living Word. That Word is Jesus Christ wrapped in pure sinless flesh.  Who sacrificed His life for the sins of the entire world!!!

We are quite thankful for all the places the Lord has allowed us to go and ” Live Out Loud the Gospel.”  To preach, proclaim, teach and share the Gospel and readily give an answer for the hope that lies within us…  Christianity is truly supposed to be an everyday lifestyle.  When you really believe that God is real and that He is Omnipresent you will live and think differently.   You learn to live daily for; ” An Audience of One. “

It is amazing to see since our visit all the things that have come upon Greece as well as the world at large. We all had such an absolutely marvelous time. One would never have imagined that such a pleasant, warm, robust inviting place could later on suffer and experience such a terrible decline. We should never take for granted the freedom we have here in America. Lord Help them… I am thankful that America has been founded upon Christian Principles. I also pray that America again embraces those principles more and more… For this world is on a “slippery slope.” May we not take that for granted… Yes Lord please; “God Bless America” as well as to become steadfast in the faith.

HIS TRUTH IS MARCHING ON…

The gates of hell will not prevail against the Church of God. Glory! Glory! Halllelllujah! HIS TRUTH is marching on!!!

“The earth truly is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof the world and them that dwell therein. He has founded it upon the seas…” Psalm 24.  There is not a place that can be built that can contain the fullness of God’s majestic awesomeness.  Nor can anyone manipulate, buy or pay their way into Heaven… HEAVEN IS GOD’S THRONE! The earth is HIS mere footstool.  HE IS LORD OVER EVERYTHING! The early church had no buildings they met in houses. They also taught in the existing places of worship. We have dedicated our home to be a place where God’s way prevails. It is important to keep God as the Center of your marriage, family and life. The heart of each of His Children is where His true Church abides.

There is nothing wrong with a church made by hands.  I am thankful that we both were raised up going to worship every Sunday not out of habit but by choice.   We both accepted Christ into our hearts as children and have been forever growing in His grace.  I was taught by a wise Mother who truly loved the Lord and was committed to the Service of the Lord.  My Father was raised by a Rev. Lady.  I thank the Lord for a “Solid Rock” foundation in Him. My Mother taught me early to  know that as long as we are on this side of Heaven we are “Forever Becoming…” God places us in the Body as He chooses. We arrive when God Calls us home to our final destination.  Or if we are here when Christ Jesus comes back for His Church; “we will be caught up to meet Him in the air.”

CHRISTIANITY  is a Daily Lifestyle to be lived unto GOD!

However, the focal point of the Church should not be a hierarchy laden with cliques, clichés, how do we pay our bills programs and solemn auxiliaries or programs; a mere shadow of what God originally intended.  God will always provide for His Church. Whenever, however and wherever we as True Worshippers are to; “Worship the Lord in Spirit and in Truth!”  We are committed to the “Call” the Lord has upon our lives as His, Elder/Minister and Ambassadors.  It is written;  “For where two or three are gathered together in My Name, there am I in the midst of them,”  Matthew 18. It is so very important to know GOD and HIS WORD for yourself. There is only One Worldwide International Christian Church in the eyes of the Lord.  And it is made up of all colors, cultures and nations from all over the world… 

“Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty.”  No need to compete with others.  For God has a place for us in the Body of Christ. We should praise Him in music, song, WORD and deeds. No, we are not saved by works. But our works do display our faith. We are SAVED by HIS MARVELOUS GRACE! Our main focus should be to cultivate an environment where God receives the preeminence in everything. There is much freedom in Christ.  Whenever or wherever we genuinely worship & Praise the Lord we should leave with a desire to want to grow even closer to HIM!

Christianity is supposed to be our daily lifestyle. We as believers can continue to grow in His Grace, Wisdom & Knowledge as we embrace and implement His principles within our lives until the day He calls us home. Then we get to live with Him through Eternity! Halllelllujah Amen! It is God’s Word and His power that will draw men, women, boys and girls from all cultures, creeds and colors worldwide. His Holy Spirit can and will change their lives when we sincerely spread this Awesome Gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether it be within the many Places of Worship, via TV, radio, internet; on Face Book, Instagram, Twitter or in song, Word or deeds. As well as in person, taught, proclaimed or preached inclusively by the Gospel Message in the Spoken Word.

GOD dwells in the hearts & souls of HIS people WE HIS CHURCH! THANK YOU LORD! WE DAILY RISE TO BLESS & PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME! YES INDEED! “THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE!!!”

Everyday we are to live; “TO GOD BE THE GLORY!”

Spiritual Eating Disorders

Anorexia and Bulimia are very serious eating disorders that occur when one does not properly relate to food. Eating disorders are serious. They can and do result in physical and emotional turmoil. There are a lot of control issues related to eating disorders. An unbalanced spiritual diet will result in a spiritual eating disorder. If you go without spiritual food; you will lack the proper skills to navigate through the spiritual maze of life. Jesus came to this world to redeem us from the penalty of sin. He overcame sin in the flesh for us. He came so that the world would not be condemned but saved. It is through His love we have obtained grace.

To find out more about your purpose and the plan God has for your life it is important that you explore God’s Word. The Word of God is our essential spiritual food for the mind, body and soul. Have you ever thought about the side effects of a Spiritual eating disorder? When you do not have a consistent healthy spiritual diet it is difficult to comprehend spiritual things. You will tend to be more carnal minded than see things from a godly spiritual perspective. Did you know that you can actually forever be in a learning mode and still not comprehend the spiritual things of God? In fact you will have a tendency to be misled. It is vitally important that you regularly read, study, digest and apply God’s Word in your daily life. You do not want to develop a spiritual eating disorder. It will result in serious spiritual consequences.

In order to grow properly one must consume a nutritious balanced daily diet.

It is often said “we are what we eat.” Eating is a natural normal everyday occurrence. Without a proper daily diet one can become malnourished. It is a well known fact that in many third world countries thousands literally starve to death daily due to a lack of a proper balanced diet. It is difficult to reach your full potential when your body does not have its proper nutrients. Food for your body is what gas is to a car. Think about it? How far will your car go without gas? How can you make the journey? Food is fuel for the body. God created a marvelous thing when He created man. We are created in His image.

We are body, mind and soul.

God has also provided the necessary resources for us to live healthy lives. In order to grow physically we need food. In order to grow intellectually we need to study and stimulate our brain cells. When we study we assist the building of dendrites. Okay what are dendrites? They are nerve cells that send impulses to the body. Intellectual growth without spiritual development is futile. The power of touch is important. One must always keep in mind the value of being disciplined and having proper boundaries with others. God is the key to ha learning how to properly relate to others on various levels. You will never fully understand life and its true meaning without knowing God. Remember He created us with a soul. Our soul also has needs. We need to spiritually feed our mind and soul with the Word of God. The Word of God is spiritual “bread from heaven”. It is essential to our spiritual growth and development.

Did you know that the Scriptures are considered “The bread of life?” They are essential for the proper growth and spiritual development for the believer. Just as food is necessary for the body; so is God’s Word for our soul. A proper spiritual diet is required if you truly desire to grow spiritually. A constant diet of religious junk food is unhealthy. Yes, it is possible to grow without God’s Word. But, you will not grow spiritually. You will grow carnally. It is even possible to grow religiously but not mentally. This will cause you to be misled as well. You will be tossed to and fro by the various doctrines of man. Please know growing religiously is not the same thing as growing spiritually.

Many people talk right and walk left.

Remember Jim Jones and his followers? If one does not regularly participate in studying and applying the principles of God’s Word to life’s circumstances it is also possible to become stagnated and lose sight of your purpose. This world is on a “slippery slope” and he embraced many of its worldly ways. Jim Jones was a well-known disdainful example of improper unhealthy behavior in leadership. He had very little if any proper moral, physical or spiritual boundaries. His idea of ministry crossed a multiplicity of God’s spiritual boundaries for relationships. He allowed and encouraged many to follow him blindly… Rather than mindfully turn them to Almighty God he allowed them to see him as their god. In ministry we must always keep in mind the omnipresence of God whenever we are engaging with others. We are to be led by His precious Holy Spirit and Comforter and point others to Christ Jesus.

JESUS is the answer for the world today. Above HIM there is no other JESUS is the WAY!

GOD will never have us cross His spiritual boundaries. For example there are times when you see someone who is stressed-out that you place your hand on their shoulder, hold their hand, or give them a hug. But in ministry we are to be mindful that we have a responsibility as well as accountability to always be cognizant of the “CALL” GOD has place upon our lives. Therefore, we are to be disciplined as we engage with others. There is a reason why the Word tells us “ To not lay hands suddenly on anyone.”

The Bible clearly tells us that God is a Spirit of Truth. HIS HOLY SPIRIT will guide us to all TRUTH! When you know the Truth the Truth will set you free. This type of freedom leads you to be free to become who God wants you to be. To daily grow in His grace, wisdom and understanding. “Draw nigh to GOD and He will draw nigh to you!”