Getting Your Joy Back Part 2

He leads me in the path of righteousness for His Namesake

GOD’S TRUTH will always prevail!

You cannot change what has been, but you can move forward seeking God’s Will for your life. You can discover the Perfect Peace that only exists in Him. God says if you seek Him with your whole heart you will find Him. As a matter of fact He is right here wherever you are. He daily gives us the freedom to invite Him into every area and all situations of our lives.

To know the TRUTH you must know GOD and HIS WORD! Do you not know that as a Believer your body is the Temple where GOD resides.  His Word is what cleanses us from all unrighteousness. His Holy Spirit His Comforter can lead us to all TRUTH!

This is Prime Time for the Word of God to be shouted from the roof tops, inside, outside,  on land, by air,  by sea and the internet!  I am grateful that the Lord has allowed us  to “GO Ye Therefore…” in  as well as throughout the world. On many occasions in many different places we have been able to go forth as His Ministers, Elders & Ambassadors! GOD’S  WORD was never meant to just be confined to a brick and mortar building anyway. Please don’t misinterpret what I am saying. There are some beautiful fabulous cathedrals, temples, worships centers and meeting places for the Church. 

 

I am truly thankful

I am thankful that the Lord has allowed us to worship Him in many  magnificent man made  places both large, small and mega large… But God never intended that they be full of people who are unhappy, hopeless and full of despair.  There has even been a shift in  the tenor of worship. A lot of it is about what I can get from the Lord. Or all about all of the issues one has experienced. God needs to be adored and exalted about anything that is happening. God should always be our main focus in worship!  God  never intended for us to just go to church and go right back to another way of life!  Nor did He want us to live legalistically rigid  unhappy lives.

 

Christianity is a Lifestyle! It is living embracing the principles of God!

Do You want your JOY back?

 

We the people are GOD’S CHURCH! “When two are three are gathered together in HIS NAME; HE IS IN THE MIDST!” GOD wants to be in all areas of all of our lives everyday! NOW through eternity you can live and be in the presence of GOD. It is your choice to live before “AN AUDIENCE of ONE!”

Do you really want to get your JOY back? Believe GOD and know and embrace the principles of HIS WORD! When GOD says HE can keep you in PERFECT PEACE; HE CAN!  Daily adorn yourself in the Armor of the Lord.

Christ Jesus came to show us a better way. He came to show us that GOD really does want to be the Center of our daily lives.  He intended for His Church to be an international universal family of believers  from all walks of life embracing and  daily living out His Living Word!  Jesus came to fulfill the law.   He sacrificed His life so we could be free. FREE to WORSHIP HIM! “In SPIRIT and in TRUTH!” To Praise Him everyday through whatever trials, tests, obstacles or land mines the enemy tries to put in your path.

 

CHRIST JESUS is the effulgence of GOD’S GLORY:

We live in a spiritual warzone. Why is that? For a season the earth is where the prince of the power of the air throne is. Who is that? “The “prince of the power of the air”  refers to the devil as the leader of superhuman powers which, according to a widely held notion at this time, dwells in the earth’s atmosphere.”   No need to worry but to just be more cognizant of the things that are not of God!

And He is the Head of the Body, the Church; He is the Beginning, the Firstborn from the dead, that He Himself might have first place in all things. For in Him all the fullness was pleased to dwell and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the Blood of His Cross ~ through Him, whether the ‘things on the earth or the things in the Heavens…” Colossians 1

CHRIST JESUS IS; The Head of The Church!

“Who is the image of the invisible God the First Born of all creation, Because of Him all things were created, in the Heavens and on the earth, the visible and invisible, whether thrones or lordships or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and unto Him. And is before all things, and all things cohere to Him.

Thank You Holy Father for Your Word which is our Daily Bread!

KNOW THIS; ONLY GOD IS OMNIPOTENT there is no greater power than HE THE FATHER, SON & HOLY SPIRIT!

Therefore daily spend some time in His Word and give God His place within your life, home and heart: BLESS WORSHIP & PRAISE GOD &  “PRAY WITHOUT CEASING!”

 

Intimacy With God ~ The Desired Destination Part 3

We can go boldly before the throne of Grace! If you have not already, start from this day forward living a life of worship. I assure you, you will not only feel better and become healthier, but you will see more clearly! “Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the Word of God. On the contrary by setting forth the Truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the GOSPEL of the glory of Christ who is the image of God. For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ, as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus; sake……….” II Corinthians 4:1-5

When you are faced with the cares, ills, grief’s, trials and concerns of life know that God sees you as a treasure. He loves us so much that He sent Jesus to redeem us from the power of sin. This is why we ALL need HIM as LORD and SAVIOR! Allow Him His place in your life! God is the same God yesterday, today and for evermore through everlasting. Intimacy with Him will help you to know that whenever; “We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed, we are perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed-always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body…”

You never have to loose heart with the Lord. Examine yourself to see whether you are in the faith? Ask Him to fill you with His presence each day and remain focused. God wants to perfect us! Simply meaning He wants to mature us and complete us! God wants you to experience His peace that surpasses the understanding of man. God is willing, ready and able to walk with you 24/7.

We are living in some interesting times. Some of everything is going on. Take a look all around the world and see to what unusual extremes madness is occurring on a multiplicity of levels. Wars, rumors of wars, senseless shootings, extreme weather conditions, corruption, moral boundaries diminished, there is an endless plethora of disturbing occurrences… The Word of God is fulfilling itself. As you take time in the Word you will better understand the extent of the increasing spiritual warfare. It has permeated every aspect of life. You don’t have to be afraid. But aware. It is so important to know GOD and HIS WORD for yourself. This way you can be certain to where you will spend eternity.

Intimacy will help you to know that the Lord knows and can see the things you can’t see. To know He knows and will reveal all and everything you need to know in order to live and worship Him each and every day yields security. Intimacy with God should be your desired destination. Now step out on faith and really begin to put your hope and trust in Him! “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you…………” Everyday; To GOD be the GLORY!

I Am Not Ashamed Of The Gospel

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17

I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL

We’re an anchor to those who are hurting.
We’re an harbor to those who are lost.
Sometimes its not always easy.
Bearing Calvary’s Cross.

We’ve been ridiculed by those who don’t know Him.
We’ve been mocked by those who don’t believe.
Still I love standing for Jesus
After all He’s done just for me.

And I tell you that I’m not ashamed of the gospel.
Its the gospel of Jesus Christ.
And no, I’m not afraid to be counted.
But Lord I’m willing to give you my life.
See Lord, I’m ready to be
Everything you want me to be
I’m giving up the wrong for you’re right.
And I tell you that I”m not ashamed of the gospel
Of Jesus Christ.

For all the times his hand has had mercy.
For all the love you’ve shown in my life
A simple thanks couldn’t say Lord how I’m feeling
See I still get tears in my eyes.
So as for me I’m going to keep on believing
In the one who’s been so faithful to me
I’m not out to prove this world around me
But I’ve got my eyes on Calvary.

And I tell you that I’m not ashamed of the gospel.
Its the gospel of Jesus Christ
And no, I’m not afraid to be counted.
But I’m willing God, I give you my life
See Lord I’m ready to be
Everything you want me to be
I give up the wrong for you’re right
I tell you that I’m not ashamed,
No Lord, I’m not ashamed of the gospel.

I’ve got too much behind me
I won’t let the world blind me
To some you just might be a name
But you are my everything
And I’m not ashamed
Of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

* ~ This Marvelous song is Truly my personal TESTIMONY! ~

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

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!”

God is able to manifest and multiple the Fruit of His Spirit within us. This is why it is important to believe, know, study and embrace His Word. It will continually give you a new lease on life.

Tasting the indescribable fruits of God’s Word is like putting on 3D glasses. Meaning you will see things on a deeper level. God really is awesome! Spiritual warfare is at hand. Despite everything that goes on there is nothing that happens He is not aware of. Just think about that for a moment. That is really deep. Look around you and see all the things that are going on. The further we move away from God’s principles the worst things get. Many choose to live a life of misery and despair. Life presents many challenges. God intended for His Church to carry on His Son’s mission. He Loved, trained, developed, nurtured and became a living example to His disciples. He even died and rose from the grave so they would see the scriptures being fulfilled. This was the ultimate demonstration of love.

 

 

Did you know that He and His disciples were persecuted, misunderstood, lied on and mistreated by those He came to help? They even plotted secretly to discredit Jesus in spite of all the good He had done. The Bible tells us there were places He went that due to unbelief His power was not manifested. These are a few of the important facts you will discover when you study the scriptures.

 

 

 

Today we have the Word of God in Book form. His Word is our source of spiritual food. Did you know that there is nothing written in the Bible that is less than 1800 years old? That fact is awesome in itself. The Bible’s Truth will forever be alive. It will and has stood the test of time. In Jesus’ time they did not have the Bible like we do. It had not been compiled into the Biblia 66 books as we have today. God really does supply all our needs. He did not leave us Comfortless. He left us His precious Holy Spirit as our internal Guide that we receive on the profession of our faith. We must daily ask for His infilling presence. We need His Holy Spirit to help us understand His Word. God does not want us to be spiritual anorexics. He wants you to know Him through His Word. How is your spiritual diet? How much time do you spend acknowledging God in your daily life? Do you ask Him to give you your daily bread?

 

 

 

This column is for you if you are reading this. Just take a personal inventory and see if you are really ingesting a balanced spiritual diet. You know and God knows. You should feed yourself spiritually in addition to being fed physically. When you attend a worship service it is the time for you to become spiritually nourished and energized as well. To praise God from whom all blessing flow. God has given many gifts to the Church. The gifts were given to spiritually mature the body of Christ. (See Ephesians.)

 

 

 

When junk food is served in lieu of the Word of God; many become spiritually codependent. This often makes it difficult for them to deal with life’s everyday challenges. When you attend service the pastor, preacher, evangelist, teacher, minister or appointee, are all charged to deliver a message from the Word of God. When one truly lays aside their own agenda this is possible. It is also very good when the messenger let’s the listeners know when they are using illustrations to make a point. This is helpful for those who are not as familiar with scriptures. This time should be consecrated; instead of used to personally say something to someone you do not have enough courage to confront. Only after praying and sincerely meditating on God’s Word this is possible. Some even see this as an opportunity to get someone else to say, what they can not say themselves to someone.

 

 

 

What happens when you eat junk food? The proper delivery of a spiritual message will feed your soul. It will enlighten, convict as well as encourage you to grow spiritually. The Word is like a two edged sword it cuts both ways. There is something for the messenger or deliverer as well as the recipient. God has left no stone unturned to see that His children receive proper spiritual nourishment.

 

 

It is an arduous task to deliver God’s Word. But how will you know if something is from God? Good question. This is why you need to study. You need to be like the Bereans in the book of Acts, they knew the Word of God for themselves. This is why it is important that we too develop our personal relationship with Him. A healthy Spiritual diet is one of the most important assets you can acquire. As a Christian it should be a necessary priority. How important did I say spiritual food was? Life can be difficult. A proper balanced spiritual diet will help you weather the tempestuous storms of life. It will give you keen insight. When everyone is saying it’s alright when you know its all wrong, let His Word guide you. God never tells us to support something that is not right. A proper spiritual diet will help you to stand for what’s right when the majority falls for what’s wrong.

 

 

 

A proper spiritual diet will allow the Fruit of God’s Spirit to flourish in your life when spiritual warfare is about you. God keeps His promises. He said He will never leave you nor forsake you. I can bear witness to this He won’t! He said He will supply all of our needs? He will! (This does not mean just getting or having what you want) He said He will be peace in the midst of a storm. He will! His Word tells us that “God is Love” He truly is! Love is a wonderful thing. Having someone to love and knowing others truly love you is a wonderful thing. Many really do not know what Love really is. Love really is a beautiful ever unfolding gift from God. In the midst of trials, tests and wickedness God’s love will be an anchor. But you must always remember that spiritual nourishment is essential. His Word tells us that, “God is Love.”

 

 

When you read, study, deliver or share God’s Word please be prayerful. There are so many that have gone shipwrecked. So many casualties due to an unbalanced spiritual diet. Much too much junk food and not enough substance. If I tell you to come to my house for dinner you are expecting a balanced nutritious meal, right? What if I give you a plate of raw carrots? That’s okay if you are a rabbit. You might even think its funny, but, when you get home how do you think you would feel? My point is. As human beings we need more that just carrots. Some foods are a little hard to digest. We need both balanced spiritual and rich nutritious diets for our spiritual and physical growth. God wants us to continuously grow spiritually. “Let this mind be in you that was also in Christ Jesus.” What does that mean? We must learn to embrace the Truth of God’s Word. God wants to be in every area of our everyday lives. He wants us to have a rich full spiritual diet, healthy marriages and sincere loving families.

 

 

 

I want to encourage you to make it a priority to spend some time with God. Really digest His Word. I assure you whatever is going on in your life He already knows. God wants you to live out the promises of His Word. God can and will make a way out of no way. He heals and He delivers according to His Will. Did you know Jesus also used very unconventional methods? The religious establishment was quite often opposed to His methods. What are you saying? God will supply the road, direction, vehicle, people and resources when and if necessary for you to accomplish whatever He wants you to do. All you must do is step out on faith! Do not be surprised when someone does not understand you. Always keep in mind that what matters is that God knows and sees everything. Nothing can come our way unless He allows it. This is why He tells us to do whatever we do as you do it for Him. Remember His Church is supposed to be the pillar of Truth. The enemy is the father of lies. God is awesome. God is a “rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” He is truly worthy of our praise.

 

 

 

Remember it is more important what God knows rather than what others think. Why do you think Jesus spent so much time getting away and spending time with His Father? Jesus remained constantly spiritual nourished. Did you ever think about the fact Jesus could have just said everyone be healed. He could have completely done away with poverty and famines. He had the power to do so. But that was not the plan. He was faithfully obedient. It is important to know that Jesus was terribly misunderstood, called evil and blacklisted too. God also has a remedy in any case. God tells us to be happy when persecuted for righteousness.

 

 

God really does have everything under His control. Knowing His Word is vitally important for your well being. Jesus really is coming back for His true Church. Some things will just not be understood on this side of Heaven. God will never lead you to do anything that goes against His principles. Really get to know God for yourself. You do intend to spend eternity with Him? This will prevent you from developing a spiritual eating disorder. Allow His Word to be “bread from heaven.” Let Him truly be your Shepherd. His Word has a bountiful table of blessings prepared for our spiritual nourishment.

 

 

God will move or take you over any mountains or through the rough terrains of life when and if necessary. Begin to feast on the delicacies of His Blessed Word. This will result in you experiencing the fruit of His Spirit. Just remember you need a balanced spiritual diet to make the journey.

Tags: anorexia, Behavioral & Emotional Health, bible, boundaries, bread of heaven, bulimia, Deliverance, emotional turmoil, fruit, gospel, grace, happiness, Jim Jones, joy, junk food, love, meat, new life, peace, salvation, spiritual, Spiritual eating disorders, spiritual growth, stress, Word of God

Good News !

December 28, 2009 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans  
Filed under Holidays, Jesus Christ

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Good News! Good News! Did you know that before you were knitted together in your Mother’s womb that God knew who you were? Did you know that there is absolutely nothing that God does not know? When you know who you are in Christ you will experience much joy! When your faith and trust are in the Lord He will give you an inexpressible inner peace. The joy and peace God provides is not contingent on your circumstance. God does not want you to live your life as a yoyo experience. You cannot change anything that has already happened in your life. But you can start by reaching out to Him right now, anywhere and anytime! God is, can be, and wants to be your constant companion. Don’t wait until something unpleasant happens. Begin today to really get to know God. God wants you to walk with Him. He has left us His Comforter, His precious Holy Spirit to teach, lead, guide and direct us. Begin if you don’t already to take time each day to thank and praise God for who He is. He is worthy of our praise! We really do have a reason to be thankful!

When ever life presents a test or a trial, it is an excellent opportunity for you to strengthen your relationship with the Lord. To be still and know! God wants to be a part of all of your life. God is able to keep you from falling! I Peter says the trials that we experience in life are to test our faith? God wants to refine you. Your faith will be tested in the fire. Fire purifies gold. Gold is refined under fire. A prospector who discovers a rock that bears gold will send it to an assayer for evaluation. The fire will melt the impurities away and eventually yield pure gold. Our faith in God is far more precious than gold. I Peter even tells us that our faith will bring us honor on the day of Jesus Christ return. Trusting in God will bring Salvation to your soul. The power of Jesus’ Christ resurrection is Good News! It has been preached to us by the power of His heaven sent Holy Spirit. We can even look forward soberly and patiently to more of God’s kindness when Jesus returns.

Good News! Good News! Many people all over the world are still waiting for the Messiah to come. We as Christians know that He has already come. We know through faith that Jesus comes in and sets up residence in our hearts when you truly accept Him as your personal Savior. Matthew traces Jesus roots all the way back to Abraham. Abraham was the first to receive the promise. Matthew goes on to record the story of Jesus life on earth. He tells how His Mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph. Many unexplainable things took place surrounding Jesus’ birth. There was a lot of spiritual warfare on the horizon. Before they were even able to come together as husband and wife Mary was found to be with child through the power of the Holy Spirit. God allowed an angel to appear to Joseph who assured Him that he was not to be afraid. He was told that she would give birth to a Son and to name Him Jesus and that this child Jesus would save the world from their sins. Imagine the faith and trust this took. Please take time to read this entire historical event again. Mary and Joseph were obedient to God. We now all benefit from their obedience.

As a child of God He wants us to obey Him as well. He does not want you to slip back and forth into your old ways. God has called us to Holiness. Jesus paved the way back to Him! Holiness is not wearing no makeup, dresses to your ankles, running all over the place and falling out, wearing white or……… Now do not go there. There is nothing wrong with wearing white. I happen to really like white. Yes, and certainly there is nothing wrong with shouting and praising God. We certainly have many reasons to praise Him! The point is spiritual purity goes much deeper than the surface. Yes, white is symbolic of purity. But remember the KKK wore white too. They also ran around and shouted. (A bit of humor is always good) They just wore white to cover up who they really were. God knows who His children really are. He knows everything. The story of Jesus birth is an excellent example that displays just that! God’s Word is so powerful!

Did you know that your body is the temple of God? It was designed as a place for His Holy Spirit to reside. It is as my granddaughter says; an earth suit. Jesus actually lived in His Mother Mary’s body. He came from heaven and humbled Himself to our existence and bore a body of flesh. He lived a sinless life. He conquered sin in the flesh for us! The scriptures tells us that His earthly body did not decay. Jesus restored to us what Adam and Eve relinquished because of their disobedience. God has created a marvelous wonderful thing when He created mankind. We are His workmanship. But we are responsible for what we do with our lives and our bodies. This is why we need a Savior. God wants us to walk in the light of His Word. His Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. The Apostle John wrote to people who were already Christians. He wanted to remind them of how one’s faith affects a person’s life. God wants us to walk in the Light not in darkness. Notice how he says if we claim to be……. Well, there should be a difference in your life when you claim to walk with the Lord. Have you ever thought about some of the things you say and do? Have you ever heard the song “Walk in the Light? God knows when and if you are walking with Him!

Although John was thought to be somewhere between 80 and 90 when He wrote the epistles bearing His name, he was still vigorously urging the Church to walk in the light of God’s Word. To have true fellowship with Him. You can have banquets and shake hands all day long. But in order to have true fellowship with Him you must walk in the light! I enjoy taking a relaxing bubble bath each day. But, looking at a tub of bubbles will not clean you. God’s true Church is supposed to be a pillar of Truth. Guess what? When everything but the Truth is allowed to prevail God knows. Living for God is serious business. You must really get into God’s Word. So His Word can really get in you. Getting into His Word will cleanse you from all unrighteousness. Guess what your faith will also be strengthened. The Word of God can and will convict you of any wrongdoing. It will bring any impurities to the surface and allow you to truly repent. Let’s not get repeating confused with repentance. Remember that purifying process I talked about?

The Good News is God is the reason for not only the season. But for life! Jesus Christ is the only atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only our sins but the sins of the world. Jesus is the Light of the world. God has given us so much. “Our lives are a gift from Him. What we do with our lives is our gift to Him.” Are you happy with your life? Do you need to give more of your life to Him? Let’s make it personal. Are you really obedient to Him? True fellowship is having a relationship with God. God is the ultimate Father. He gave His only Begotten Son to redeem us! The Good News is there is power in the name Jesus. He has given us the precious gift of eternal life. God is not only there for you; He is everywhere! There is freedom in Christ. Please, remember as I said earlier that your trials come to purify you and make you strong. God is not a surface God. God is really and truly deep. He wants to take us to deeper depths and higher heights. Jesus paid a ransom to save us from the broad road that leads to destruction. This narrow road leads to heaven. The Good News is He paid for our lives and sins with the precious life and blood of His sinless life. It is because of this our trust can be in God who raised Christ from the dead! Now our faith, trust and hope can rest in Him alone.

The Word of God tells us that, “All honor belongs to God, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: for it is His boundless mercy that has given us the privilege of being born again, so that we are now members of God’s own family. The good News is we live in eternal hope because we know without a doubt that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. And God Himself has reserved for His children the priceless gift of eternal life. Hallelujah! It is kept in heaven for us, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. Now do you see how very important it is to know who Jesus is! How very important to know what God has done for us! God is powerful. He will and can make sure that whenever that time comes that we will safely get to heaven to receive and continue on in His precious gift of eternal life.

It is very important that you get to know God for who He is and not for just who people say He is. Get to know Him for yourself! Then you will not be tossed to and fro by every different kind of doctrine. Remember that inexpressible joy and peace I talked about? Always remember even when the going gets tuff down here for a while or season; God is always there. All you need to do is keep your focus on the Lord! After all He is the author and finisher of your faith. When you make it a goal in your life to please God you will not have to have a yoyo experience. God can keep you in perfect peace if your mind is stayed on Him! Delight yourself in God’s Word! He will not only give you the desires of your heart but, He will also give you a sound mind! You can be like that tree in Psalms that is planted by the rivers of water. This type of tree roots goes deep! Far beyond what the human eye can see. When your faith is in God He will see to it that any fruit is brought forth in His time. All the Glory belongs to Him. Remember God. is always just a prayer away. Remember that without faith it is impossible to please God.

Good News! Good News! This is the time of the year we set aside to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Joy to the world the Lord has come! Let earth receive her King! Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing! We give gifts to our love ones, friends and neighbors. Let’s remember that every good and perfect Gift comes from God! Let’s remember each and everyday that God gave us the Greatest Gift of all! Let’s remember now and throughout the year to praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above thee heavenly hosts. Praise, Father Son and Holy Ghost!

We’ve Come To Bow Down And Worship HIM!

Tags: Christmas, faith, good news, gospel, holiday season, Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ, joy, news, peace, savior, Word of God