A Sermon to Remember
October 14, 2020 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living, Religion, Society & Culture
A Sermon to Remember
Our journey to Athens Greece is one of the most memorable places we have ever traveled. Perched high is MARS HILL; THE AREOPAGUS. It overlooks this vivacious metropolis. We were in awe of the very realization of the distinct historical ground that we stood upon. Here we were greatly humbled. Here we together praised, thanked and worshipped GOD for HIS marvelous creation. Right in the midst of a plethora of people from all over the world.
Mars Hill is in Athens Greece. It is here you will find the seat of the Ancient Athenian Court. Today there are significant remnants of it that still remain. It is currently being refurbished and fortified to preserve its historical relevancy. Here is where most of the religious problems as well as crimes were judged in the New Testament Era.
Two of the major leading schools of thought were that of the Epicureans and the Stoics. They believed that there were many gods… They in their spiritual blindness and ignorance worshipped idols. They were both thought to be in possession of some of the first and foremost intelligent Greek philosophies of this era. They differed in their beliefs somewhat. However; They both thought agreed and perceived that the Apostle Paul was a babbler. They thought Paul to be strange because he preached to them about JESUS CHRIST and the RESURRECTION.
The Apostle Paul in turn thought them to be too superstitious. He had absolutely no doubt as to who GOD was. He was led by the Spirit of God to give them the WORD! To enlighten them to the one and only true GOD he served, worshipped and lived for.
Here in the Book of Acts is a marvelous unforgettable sermon preached by the Apostle Paul that was proclaimed and spoken in order to bring attention to “The UNKNOWN GOD” they ignorantly spoke of. The God whom they did not fully comprehend. Yes, they referred to HIM, but they did not know that HE IS THE OMNIPOTENT ALMIGHTY HOLY GOD!
It is emphatically clear here on Mars Hill the Apostle Paul undeniably speaks the profound life altering philosophical TRUTH! One must take time to digest and embrace the majestic infallible Word that is revealed here.
GOD does not live in Temples made by human hands. Nor should we serve Him as though He needed anything. IN FACT, IT IS ALL OF US WHO NEED HIM!
May we continue to meditate and ponder upon these enlightening passages of GOD’S infallible WORD! This is what Paul pronounces and brilliantly decrees and preaches to them.
THE APOSTLE PAUL ON MARS HILL; THE AREOPAGUS
“Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars Hill, and said. Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.
For as I passed by and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship HIM I declare unto you,
GOD that made the world and all the things therein, seeing that HE is LORD of Heaven and earth, dwelleth not in Temples made by hands;
Neither is worshipped with men’s (women’s) hands as though HE needed anything, seeing HE giveth to all life, and breath and all things:
And hath made of one blood all nations of men (women) for to dwell on the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
That they should seek the LORD, if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him, though HE be not far from any of us;
For it is in HIM we live and move and have our being; as certain also our own poets have said. For we are also HIS offspring
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of GOD, we ought to not think that the GODHEAD is like gold, or silver, or stone, or graven art, and man’s device. And the times of his ignorance GOD WINKED AT, BUT NOW COMMANDETH ALL Men (Women) EVERYWHERE TO REPENT…”
Acts 17
Here in this PROFOUND MESSAGE it is clear that GOD does not need any of us. Nor does HE need anything from us. For it is HE that has given us all things including life and breath. We all; men, women, boys or girls of every nation on the earth have one blood. We ALL NEED THE LORD! Each and every one of us are accountable to HIM!
WE ALL ARE TO SEEK THE LORD DAILY
The beauty of GOD’S WORD is it is living quick powerful and it IS THE TRUTH! It is important to know GOD and HIS WORD for yourself. GOD IS OUR MAKER & CREATOR! Be ye always ready to give an answer for the hope that lies within you. “Study to shew thyself approved unto GOD, a workman that needed NOT be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD of TRUTH… II Timothy 2
If you really want to be BLESSED; spend some quality time with the Lord in His Word! Being blessed really goes far beyond the material blessings… “BLESSED BE THE GOD & FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, WHO HATH BLESSED US WITH ALL SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS IN HEAVENLY PLACES IN CHRIST.” Ephesians 6 God continuously disburses His blessings as He sees fit or deems appropriate.
Wherever we are we can call upon the Lord in prayer 24/7. “Praying without ceasing” is a state of mind. How about denying yourself some time in the world… And set aside some time to listen intently to the Lord as He speaks to your heart in His Word. Allow Him to grow you in His grace, wisdom & understanding. Truly; HE CAN SET YOU FRE! Learn how to “BE STILL & KNOW!”
Today in this 21st century GOD IS SPEAKING VOCIFEROUSLY to HIS CHURCH, this world and all men, women boys and girls all around the world in many ways. HIS MESSAGE IS STILL: REPENT!!!
See what is happening all around us!
The plague and pestilence that has persisted throughout the world continues to take its casualties. Each day the numbers escalate. Across the globe. “THIS Coronavirus pandemic DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE!” The political divisions throughout the world continues to persist as well. The in-climate weather irregularities persist. The tension between the governing political parties at times have been somewhat disturbing. An uprising of racial discrimination continues to resurface. Nothing is new under the sun.
GOD is never far from any of us. FOR HE IS OMNIPRESENT! There is absolutely nothing that He is not aware of past, present or future. Remember; Each day is a day to grow in His grace, wisdom and understanding. As we actually embrace HIS WORD and implement it within our daily lives the FRUIT of HIS SPIRIT manifests and multiplies within us. We CAN and MUST STAND upon HIS WORD! HOLY FATHER, WE THANK & PRAISE YOU AS YOU POUR OUT YOUR HOLY SPIRIT UPON US LORD GOD!
There is much going on in, around and about this world Christ Jesus spoke into existence. Many are bypassing and overlooking GOD’S WORD and embracing the ways of the world. Truly the Lord knows; Many of the ways of the world have also nested themselves in the midst of GOD’S CHURCH! LORD HAVE MERCY!
Nothing is no longer sacred to many… You can expect some of everything… The WORD of GOD is being fulfilled. No doubt the “Perilous Days” are upon us. As believers we are to daily live as though we are really expecting CHRIST JESUS to return.
This Message on Mars Hills reminds us of the importance of knowing GOD for ourselves. This was true then, Now and will be so throughout eternity.
GOD Speaks to HIS CHURCH in Revelation
In Revelation GOD speaks to HIS CHURCH about what is happening and what is to COME! In all of the (7) seven Churches there was a need for improvement. The Church is the Bride of Christ! Each of them was told; “He that hath an ear, let Him hear what the SPIRIT saith unto the Churches.” Revelation 1,2 & 3
“I JESUS have sent my Angel to testify unto you these things in the Churches, I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the SPIRIT and the BRIDE say, COME. And let HIM that heareth say, COME. And whosoever will let His/her take the water of life freely…” Revelation 22
GOD is a just GOD! We can be sure at His appointed time He will bring to light what has been done in the dark. He will right every wrong…
BECAUSE HE HATH APPOINTED A DAY, IN WHICH HE WILL JUDGE THE world in RIGHTEOUSNESS by that MAN whom HE hath ordained: whereof He hath given assurance unto all men/women that HE has raised HIM from the dead…” Acts 17
We can live and be confident every day knowing that in GOD’S time He will deal with everyone and everything justly.
“AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS IN THE LAST DAYS, SAITH THE GOD, I WILL POUR OUT MY SPIRIT; UPON ALL FLESH; AND YOUR SONS AND YOUR DAUGHTERS SHALL PROPHESY, AND OUR YOUNG MEN SHALL SEE VISIONS, AND YOUR OLD MEN SHALL DREAM DREAMS;
AND ON MY SERVANTS AND 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 IN THE EARTH BENEATH, BLOOD AND FIRE AND VAPOR AND SMOKE.
THE SUN SHALL BE TURNED INTO DARKNESS, AND THE MOON INTO BLOOD, BEFORE THAT GREAT NOTABLE DAY OF THE LORD COME; AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS THAT WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED.” Acts 2
So, let us not take time for granted. Let us live each day expecting our Lord Jesus Christ to return. For without notice; “in a twinkling of an eye” HE IS coming back for HIS CHURCH without spot or wrinkle.
Where Does God Dwell?
March 16, 2010 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Church
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!”
Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us – From the “Pit” to the “Palace”
February 23, 2010 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Politics, Society & Culture
A Man of Color as President of the United States
America along with the world has been privileged to share a monumental, memorable phenomenon. Barak Obama becoming the 44th President of the United States of America is nothing short of a miracle! If you look closely and attentively throughout the corridors of America’s history you will find that what was thought to have been unheard of has happened. By the grace of God the “Impossible has become possible!”
It took faith, fortitude, stamina, dedication, persistence and perseverance to forge ahead against insurmountable odds for Barak Obama to pursue relentlessly the position of president. His winning the candidacy for the President of America reaches far beyond the United States. It has been said that his methodical, strategic campaign was a seamless, well planned, professionally skilled endeavor of any other candidate.
It took Faith because it is clear that he had to believe without seeing
This victory has brought about a much needed message of “Hope” and renewal of confidence within the American people. It also yields a restored “Faith in God.” The Word of God tells us that “Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.” The Truth and promises of the scriptures have been “made alive.” “With God All things are possible.” One can surely appreciate the fact that the ” highway of possibilities” has been opened. The possible pathway of opportunities are boundless for our nation, the world and future generations to come.
We live in a vast world with a diversity of cultures
Traveling throughout the world affords one the opportunity to broaden your perspective and experience and envision life through a much broader lens. I am thankful for having been afforded such an opportunity, to travel throughout the world along with my husband/pastor as well as in a group. The world is so very diverse with a plethora of multi cultural people, customs, religions and beliefs. All having such a broad assorted variety of lifestyles in which an innumerable amount of peoples with diverse backgrounds live together. But regardless as to where I have traveled, from Mexico to Aruba, the Bahamas to Jamaica, England to Rome, Athens Greece to Ephesus, France to Spain and Switzerland…. I have always been thankful to return home to America. We have met wonderful people.
There have been countless wonders, magnificent architectural expressions and artistic monuments as well as majestic sceneries to behold from the hilltop Montserrat to Notre Dame Cathedral, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to the Blue Mosque and Hagias Sophia in Turkey. Yet I have never seen nor experienced a place where the freedom in which we are privy to here in America is experienced anywhere else in the world. It is because of this freedom and opportunity Barak Obama has become the 44th and 1st Afro American President. How ironic he and his family will be the first Black Family to ever take up resident in the nation’s capitol infamously known as “The White House.” “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us.”
Discrimination & Systemic Racism is real!
In the 1930’s America was a segregated society where everything was separate. There were even separate water fountains and restrooms labeled for “Whites only” and less hygienic accommodations for the “Colored”. Maybe this will help you if you have not experienced racism. or discrimination. It comes in many forms. Think about having to use the bathroom and you can’t be cause of the color of your skin. Or not being able to eat or have a drink a water unless you do it in the not so clean backroom. Let’s not forget back seats on buses and back entrances to public facilities.
Many Colored/Blacks decided to migrate to the North. Being born and raised in California has had its benefits since here, we have been somewhat shielded from the dire profundity of racism and discrimination that has permeated the deep south. Not that discrimination did not go on here, it did, and has. In some instances it continues…. Here we have just been a tad further removed from the antagonistic discrimination which was so outwardly and blatantly, readily displayed itself in the deep south. Despite the fact America is a country made up of immigrants from all over the world. Where slavery was practiced and embraced. Where many Whites felt that they were superior to Colored/Blacks and we were perceived as inferior. To many even to be dark skinned was considered a curse. To be beaten, severely punished, raped or lynched and treated less than human was once considered acceptable behavior.
Because of the color of your skin, the right to learn how to read and write was also denied as well as deemed illegal. Dissension, factions, immorality and discord are works of the flesh. Here is an excerpt from the article; Blacks are better off than in 1999 than in 1960 “After the Civil War, many amendments were passed in order to better represent blacks in America. The 13th, 14th and 15th amendments all changed blacks’ lives drastically and positively. The 13th amendment ended slavery and the 14th declared blacks as citizens. The fifteenth amendment stated that anyone can vote, regardless of color or race. However, the South devised poll taxes and literacy tests in a successful attempt at preventing blacks from voting. But in 1964, after a sufficient number of states ratified an amendment proposed by Congress, the tables turned for blacks. The 24th amendment banned poll taxes. The voting act of 1965 banned the use of literacy tests related to voting. Voting gave blacks a say in government and helped raise the moral of blacks in America.” “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us.” Really!
Based on the color of your skin Legal Segregation was actually lawful
I can personally recall from time to time watching on television the injustices broadcasted on the news and the many interruptions for special bulletin news reports as a child. I can remember the many tales of my parents and the many experiences they encountered growing up in the early 1900’s in Arkansas. My father was a light skinned Bi-racial man and my mother was a mahogany skinned Colored woman. I was a mere toddler when segregation in the schools legally ended in 1955, which resulted in the Montgomery Bus Boycotts. The Supreme Court eventually ruled that Alabama segregation laws were unconstitutional. It is during this time that Rosa parks decided not to give up her seat to a white person simply because she was so very tired. This protest resulted in Dr. Martin Luther King a Baptist Minister at the time, being ushered to the front lines as a prominent Social Leader for the Black Community.
Discrimination in theaters, hotels, hospitals and public places continued on until in 1964 Congress passed a Civil Rights Act. Dr. King lead many “Peaceful Freedom Protest Marches” protesting the many injustices upon Colored/Blacks. But let not forget he was heinously assassinated. There now has been much banter and undisclosed documentation of the FBI, CIA and undercover agents covering and uncovering lethal records to taint his legacy. This is also a good way to make sure that people of Color are limited and not able to live outside their desired boundaries for them. Despite these restrictions Dr. King’s parents brought him up in a Christian suburban home. It was not without contentions. Yet he believed, practiced and exemplified the Fruit of God’s Spirit which is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness and Self-Control. “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us.”
We as the United States of America was established by our forefathers, to be “One Nation under GOD!”
I can recall when I was in Jr. High School during the sixties, as president of my homeroom. I clearly remember having to lead the class in the “Pledge of Allegiance.” But, halfway through one particular morning, all of a sudden it dawned on me. It had become quite clear to me that it really was not “Liberty and Justice for all”. So I decided that I would silently and peacefully protest not to complete the pledge. Of course it did not go over big at all with my homeroom teacher. But it was a real awakening in my soul…
One cannot help but to appreciate the far reaching magnitude of what has taken place here on November 4th 2008! It will be forever recorded in America’s History. Despite the differences American to a degree has resumed its intended purpose and the opportunity to provide “Liberty and Justice for All” has been partially reinstated. There is no doubt that the successful election of Barak Obama was a concerted effort that included a network of people of All Colors and creeds working together. This is truly a victory for ALL people of America! This is true if you agree with his politics are not. He comes from a multi faceted colorful ancestral heritage that represents a multitude of people. “With God ALL things are possible.” His Word tells us “that God is not a respecter of persons…” It may be hard for the finite mind to fathom that God who is Omniscient, knew way back then, even from the very beginning of time what would be taking place today! “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us.”
America was founded as a Christian Nation
We as Christians and as a Country have so much to be thankful for. All of God’s Word is true. Today we are living in perilous times. But despite the nations many financial hardships, declining economy, overwhelming number of businesses closing, devaluation of property, wars and rumors of wars, terrorists attacks, natural disasters, famines and earthquakes in divers places throughout the world, we can have peace knowing God is still in absolute control. Absolutely nothing gets by Him! Romans 12 tells us, “To not be conformed to the pattern of this world! But to be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, His good, pleasing and perfect will…”
As a professed Christian and believer it is very important to know God’s Word for yourself! To have an intimate personal ongoing growing relationship with GOD! The book of Romans goes on to tell us that in leadership the ability to govern diligently is a gift from God. Ultimately every authority, government and principality is under God’s authority and the headship of Jesus Christ. Colossians tells us that ” For by Him All things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible, and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and consist for Him…” Whether you believe it or not only God is Sovereign! The Bible tells us how God, delivered the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage. There are also endless true life stories in His Word of how He delivered His people from unjust rulers and countless situations that seemed impossible. “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought us.”
Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us!
It is through a committed personal relationship with His Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ one can truly experience necessary continued spiritual growth and development as well as His peace and freedom that surpasses the understanding of man. There are invaluable benefits knowing who you are in Christ. Today it is through God’s grace and mercy America has been to a degree delivered! It was quite evident as we all watched the hysterical excitement permeate the enormous crowds as Barak Obama was elected president. God has truly delivered America from the clutches of despair and hopelessness and ushered in a glistening glimmer of “Hope”! “Nothing is impossible with God.” In His Word He also tells us although we may be accused living among unbelievers (pagans) we must still live to please Him! God’s promise to “never leave nor forsake us” is quite true!
Truly we can say “GOD BLESS AMERICA!” As Christians we must individually, collectively and corporately pray and ask God’s protection, grace, wisdom and direction to rest upon “President Barak Obama, his family and his staff. As he takes upon his shoulders the awesome tasks of restoring America’s dignity, credibility and prominent visual universal position. No doubt he will encounter many land mines and obstacles. I pray he can sustain integrity and dignity in the midst of it all. America has a tall order to fill. The 24th Psalms says, “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it, the world and all who live within it…” As a country and a nation that proclaims to be “one nation under God with Liberty and Justice for ALL.” The WORD says, ” With GOD All things are possible.” Praise be to God from whom ALL blessings flow. Praise Him ALL creatures here below… It is truly amazing! Again “GOD BLESS AMERICA”
One can truly say “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought us.” He has delivered us from unjust rulers, slavery, oppression, and given us freedom. In America, Egypt, Libya, Iran, Yemen, and all over the world, Let Freedom Ring.
Yes, Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us. He has brought us from a mighty long ways.“But we still have a long ways to go.” Listen/Purchase “Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us” from the CD “Somebody Somewhere Was Praying For Me” by Brenda Lowe.
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