There Is A Fountain

Lose all thy guilty stains, wash all my sins away, be saved to sin no more.

There Is A Fountain Filled With Blood is one of the time tested hymns that reminds us of the finished work Christ did on the cross. He died on a cross for the sins of the world, was buried, but rose from the grave with all power in HIS hands. He conquered sin and the grave. 

For God so loved the world that HE gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life. Because of what HE did, we can lose all of our guilty stains, wash all of our sins away, and be saved to sin no more.

 

                                                                       There Is A Fountain

There is a fountain filled with blood
Drawn from Immanuel’s veins
And sinners, plunged beneath that flood
Lose all their guilty stains

The dying thief rejoiced to see
That fountain in his day
And there may I, though vile as he
Wash all my sins away

Dear dying Lamb,Thy precious blood
Shall never lose its power
Till all the ransomed church of God
Be saved, to sin no more

 

Click here to listen to the new release by Elder Randall Ogans Sr. &  Dorian Ogans. This is an uplifting instrumental interpretation of the hymn.  As you listen, meditate on the saving power of the blood. 

 

He Gave Us The Very Best He Had – Give Him The Very Best You Have

 

Once again the Christmas season is upon us. Many people are shopping, preparing to give gifts to friends and loved ones.  It is a good thing to give, for God has said in His word that it is more blessed to give than to receive. 

We know that the greatest gift that was given, was from God. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).  That gift is Jesus the Christ, whose birth we celebrate at this time.

Years ago, I used to play a song for  choirs which we would sing at our church services every year. It was always one of my favorites, as it was a reminder of how God gave us His best, and why we in turn should  always want to give Him our best.  Not just in our church activities, but in the life we live every day. 

This song was penned many years ago by James Dewitt Johnson. It tells the story about the birth of Jesus, and what He did for us, which is why He is the best gift ever given to this world. 

 

                                       “He Gave Us The Very Best He Had”

                                      God gave to the world, His only begotten son 

                                      To bring peace and great tidings, of great joy 

                                      And the star, from the East, shined on this great boy 

                                      God gave us, the very best, He had 

 

                                      The shepherds, they followed the star,  to the east, where Jesus lay 

                                      All wrapped in swaddling clothes, in a manger, filled with hay 

                                      The wise men, they came from afar

                                      Just to see this great child,  that had been sent, by God 

 

                                     The Son went to Calvary, and He hung, on the cross 

                                     Just to save this world,  from sin, and lost 

                                     He hung, on the cross, for it was all He could do 

                                     And to the world, His love, He did prove 

 

                                    God gave us, the very best, He had 

                                    God gave us, His son 

                                    The most precious gift, from anyone 

                                    God gave us, the very best, He had 

 

Jesus Christ is the best gift that has ever been given.  God gave us His best.  That should make us always want to give Him our best.  Not just at Christmas, or just in our local church activities, but in our daily living.   

Give him the best in your walk, in your talk,  and in how you look.  We are children of the most High God, a royal priesthood.  When we come together to worship, remember you are presenting yourself  before the King of Kings, the ultimate royalty.  Therefore, dress your best, walk your best, talk your best, give Him your best praise.  Live your best, and be His true church everyday and everywhere. 

Know that Jesus is coming back, not for a building, but for a church(people) without spot or wrinkle.

God gave us the very best He had. Give Him the very best you have.

 

There is much Hoopla about Valentine’s Day

There is much Hoopla about Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is legendarily known for being the most romantic day of the year. Wow! This is a Day that couples desire to wonderfully express and celebrate life and their love for one another. This day of love is now further extended and expressed in many different ways between friends, families, classmates, teachers, coworkers and many more…

It is a great and marvelous day to annually commemorate your union of “the two becoming one.” Marriage was designed to be a loving, spiritual, committed and pleasurable fulfilling experience.

 

A Little History About Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is said to have originated from amongst the ancient chronicles of ancient Roman history within the early Christian Church. Not all agree; some believe its origin is that of a pagan nature.

 

However, this narrative goes as such.

 

Once upon a time, years ago somewhere in and about the 3rd century AD., many couples who were in love were forbidden to marry. It is said that Emperor Claudius II who was an austere, ambitious and controlling ruler requiring vast armies of men denied them the privilege to marry. He trained his soldiers well yet brutally. He was a hard taskmaster. The soldiers had to be on the road for long extended periods of times and he did not want them engaging in sexual intercourse. This left the lonesome lot of soldiers homesick and half-hearted… Still, the Emperor felt it drained the soldier’s strength and interfered with his goal for them to be victorious on the battlefield. So, he subsequently banned marriages altogether.

 

But one bold, compassionate, defiant priest in Rome named Father Valentine did not agree. He thought that the Emperor Claudius II was unjust and unyielding in this belief. He heroically came to the aid of many couples and secretly married the young lovers anyway. Well, when the furious Emperor got wind of what was happening, he was livid, and he had him beaten with clubs and arrested. It is alleged that the emperor himself began to grow fond of Father Valentine. He came to really like him.

 

Father Valentine eventually tried to no avail to convert the emperor. In turn the emperor wanted and attempted unsuccessfully to make Father Valentine renounce his Faith. They reached an impasse in their relationship. Father Valentine remained incarcerated and was eventually sentenced to death.

 

It is believed that the secretly wedded blissful couples that Father Valentine had married were so very thankful. Filled with elated gratitude they clandestinely visited the imprisoned priest. No doubt that they had pledged their love for one another but for Father Valentine as well. With thankful hearts filled with gratefulness and appreciation they surreptitiously brought him gifts, flowers and notes of gratitude. The couples would secretly pass the notes to him through the bars of his cell.

 

Father Valentine himself being loving, kindhearted, caring and compassionate supposedly too fell in love. How ironic for it was with the jailer’s daughter. Some say she was blind and he healed her… On the day of the condemned Father Valentine’s execution of February 14th around 269, he wrote her a note confessing his love for her and signed it “from your Valentine.” He however was still beheaded and martyred. From here amongst the varied accounts originates our tradition of “Valentine’s Day.”

 

Millions Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Today in this modern 21st century “Valentine’s Day” is one of the most celebrated days on the calendar. It has been festively celebrated by billions of people ever since the days of Father Valentine. This day has become extravagantly and immensely commercialized so be aware that you do not get pulled in. 

 

Yes, do celebrate “LOVE” but be responsible and stay safe!

 

Compare 2012 with 2021

 

This was true in 2012

Here in our beautiful country of America alone over 180,000,000 people celebrate by purchasing and showering roses upon their loved ones. Red is the most often selected color. It is a most prosperous day for retailers! Over 36,000,000 heart-shaped boxes of candy and chocolates as well as thousands of diamonds, dinners, cards and other gifts ranging from extravagant to simple in lavish expenditures collectively totaling billions of dollars are purchased.

 

Hershey the infamous chocolate maker employs 13,000 employees. Located in Hershey, Pennsylvania they make over $5,000,000,000 in revenue per year. They use over 600, 000,000 million pounds of chocolate per year as well as using over 200,000,000 million pounds of nuts and 700,000,000 million pounds of milk and an exorbitant ridiculously extravagant amount of sugar! Hershey Inc. vast quantities of chocolate is made from cocoa plants from all around the world.

 

Past Statistics as of 2021 on Valentine’s Day Spending according to Fortunly

Take note of these statistics because it is important to keep them in a balanced perspective.

Spending on Valentine’s Day in the US amounted to roughly $20.7 billion in 2019.

(MarketingCharts)

Valentine’s Day statistics show that around 61% of Americans planned to buy Valentine’s Day gifts for their partner in 2018.

(Statista)

American consumers spent $886 million on gifts for their pets on Valentine’s Day.

(MarketWatch)

A quarter of all Americans will go Valentine’s Day shopping for their loved ones.

(National Retail Federation)

Valentine’s stats show that 28% of American adults purchased flowers or plants as gifts for the occasion. 37% of those were men and 19% were women.

(The Society of American Florists)

According to Valentine’s Day sales statistics, Americans spent $1.8 billion on candy for this holiday.

(CNBC)

Red roses account for 69% of all flowers bought on St. Valentine’s Day.

(The Society of American Florists)

Some $5 billion is spent on jewelry for Valentine’s Day in the US.

(National Retail Federation)

Men spend up to five times more than women on gifts for Valentine’s Day.

(Bankrate)

Valentine’s Day sales statistics reveal that 85% of all Valentine’s cards are bought by women.

(Greeting Card Association)

Valentine’s Day retail data shows that more than 135 million Americans went shopping for the occasion in 2019.

(Finder)

US citizens are expected to spend $27.4 billion on Valentine’s Day in 2020. That equates to $196.31 per person.

(National Retail Foundation)

 

 

Valentine’s Day Is A Time To Celebrate Love!

 

When couples are in love it is both emotional and physical. The brain produces a neurotransmitter called dopamine. It is a natural stimulant that carries messages from nerve cells to other nerve cell muscles. It is sent to many brain regions creating intense feelings often associated with romantic love. There are also physiological responses that occur by another closely related neurotransmitter called norepinephrine that often creates and intense craving… This explains why kissing for some can be intense because the hormone testosterone is passed between the two when kissing. Hopefully this explains why some can tend to be a bit irrational initially when in love. Love is wonderful when properly and lovingly expressed.

 

There is much more to Love than the physical. In a good nurturing healthy marriage, respect, care, loyalty and concern are evident components. Many are committed to many other things and their marriage is secondary. You want to take time to really get to know this person who you have committed to love. You both made not only a commitment to your spouse but you both made a vow to the LORD, or did you? Remember this all throughout the year and not only on Valentine’s Day.

 

The Beauty of Marital Love Expressed in Song of Solomon 

 

“HOW beautiful are thy feet with shoes, O prince’s daughter? The joints of thy thighs are like jewels, the work of the hands of a cunning workman. Thy navel is like a round goblet, which wanteth not liquor, thy belly is like a heap of wheat set about with lilies.  thy two breasts are like two young roes that are twins.

Thy neck is like a tower of ivory; thine eyes like the fish pools in Hesbon, by the gate of Bath-rabbim, Thy nose is as the tower or Lebanon which leadeth towards Damascus. Thy head upon thee is like Carmel, and the hair of thine head like Purple, the King is held in the galleries. How fair and pleasant art thou, O love, for delights!  This thy stature is like a palm tree, and thy breasts shall be as clusters of grapes…” SONG OF SOLOMON 7   Example of: I and my beloved.

 

The WORD of GOD speaks quite candidly here and transparently reveals pure marital love in the form of poetic scripture.

 

MARRIAGE IS SACRED IN THE EYES OF GOD

 

When you truly embrace His principles of Love within your marriage you both will experience an ever-increasing fulfilling union.  (Together you have the freedom to privately express your love to one another in a physical manner.)   God is Omnipresent meaning; He is absolutely everywhere. Invite Him into every area of your marriage and everyday life. God is Omniscient meaning; He is totally cognizant of all things and knows everything. Remember it is He that has created us. He is the creator and originator and knows what is necessary to have a great marriage. It is always your choice to allow Him His place within your life.  It is important to keep GOD in the Center of your marriage. If you have not it is never too late to start… I assure you, you both will be or become a lot happier.

 

 

Suggestions To Celebrate VALENTINE’S DAY

There are many ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day as a couple. Here are a few suggestions:

Start the day off with a nice hug

A relaxing bubble bath or soothing shower is a good way to start your day.

Slip a romantic expression of love note in his pocket or her purse

Compose or read poetry to one another, for starters try, The “Song of Solomon” it is a fabulous book of inspiration and love

Plan a nice Candlelight dinner and or a romantic picnic lunch

Treats of: Cakes, Cookies, Cupcakes, Chocolates, Popcorn and assorted candies

Flowers & Cards

Fruit Baskets

Take in a matinée or evening movie

Select in advance a great movie you are excited about sharing at home

Plan a spa couple visit for the mud baths, mineral springs and for massages

Play nice enjoyable music to relax

Before retiring take a nice temperate, peaceful, tranquil candle light bubble bath

A nice added touch is a scented comfy and pillow puffy rose petaled bed…

All the above are simply suggestions. Each couple is quite different. You might even have some better suitable suggestions. So do what personally works for you.

Everyday  all throughout the year it is always good to Kiss your spouse whenever you part. You never know what a day may bring.

 

Genuine LOVE continues to refine and flourish 

A suggested gift to one another that continues the celebration throughout the year.  Remember to be creative! Do keep love alive in your marriage. Make life healthy safe & exciting for one another.  Simply write colorful to do “IOU’S “on note cards…  Fold and place them in a nicely decorated jar or basket. Pick from them all throughout the year.  

 

Here are a few suggestions; This is your day to do as you wish; An Impromptu no questions asked date, A together Car Wash, No arguing today, Dancing, A no spending date, Golf Pass, Couple shopping fling, Back rub & neck massage, Foot massage, Manicure & or Pedicure, Night on the town, Walk in the park, Let’s exercise together, A picnic, Event of choice or a lovely Evening of Elegance…

The intent is to learn how to enjoy your life together, and be thoughtful and considerate of one another as well as others…  Time is precious. After a while it becomes a part of who you are. And yes, do always take time to study the Word of God together for it is our necessary essential spiritual food for our mind, body & soul! 

When you do begin to partake in some of the above consistently, they will occur naturally….

 

~ “GOD IS LOVE” ~

GOD Defines LOVE in HIS WORD

 

When you SAY that you LOVE someone here are some things to KEEP in mind. Here the TRUE meaning of LOVE is defined.

LOVE is best described herein I Corinthians 13: “LOVE is patient, Love is kind, it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud, it is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. LOVE does not delight in evil, but REJOICES in TRUTH. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves. LOVE NEVER FAILS…”

Remember this; “GOD IS LOVE!” and His Love lasts through eternity! Father God Bless You Both. ENJOY & CELEBRATE the one you Love! Seek out ways to encourage more and complain less.  Stay committed to your vows you made to God and to one another.  Keep God in the Center of your marriage.

Always remember; “Love is patient, Love is kind, Love is felt most when it is GENUINE!”

GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

~ Parental ALIENATION is Real! ~

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

~ Parental Alienation is Real! ~

 

Ladies if you did not have a good relationship with your father, or did not know him, and now you do not have a good relationship with your husband, now your ex-husband, or father(s) of your children; you can “Break the Cycle of Cognitive Distortions!”

Don’t allow the same void to exist within their life. Do not pass down generational trauma. If you are a single mother, please do not hinder or prevent your children from having a good relationship with their father.  If you are a single father the same also applies, please do not hinder or prevent your children from having a good relationship with their mother. You both should want better for your children. You both should have what is best for the children as a top priority.  Remember you both are responsible for them being here. Keep in mind your children are entrusted to you as a parent(s) but they actually belong to God.

GOD IS MORE THAN ABLE!!! With the HELP of the LORD you can break the cycle! God can meet you right where you are and get you where you need to be…

 

Of course, you want to always be concerned about the well-being of your children. Therefore, make it clear to them as well as the father/mother  you want them to develop a safe healthy relationship. You cannot change what has been. If necessary tell them you want to move forward and start anew.

 

There is much spiritual warfare to alter God’s original design for marriage and families… Parental Alienation is real! Allow GOD to bring PEACE, to your heart, home and children!

 

Sad but true there are some instances where places of worship have also been the catalysts for abetting division among families. Not fully knowing what is happening in the relationships assumptions are made. They have on occasion fostered environments that acrimoniously embrace one parent over the other. And often unknowingly actually support divisive parental alienation.

Everyone is not qualified or able to give wise healthy family counsel. Be careful and PRAYERFUL who you allow to speak into your life as well as the life of your children.

 

 

Parental Alienation Defined

“Parental alienation is a theorized process through which a child becomes estranged from one parent as the result of the psychological manipulation of another parent. The child’s estrangement may manifest itself as fear, disrespect or hostility toward the distant parent, and may extend to additional relatives or parties. The child’s estrangement is disproportionate to any acts or conduct attributable to the alienated parent. *Parental alienation can occur in any family unit, but is claimed to occur most often within the context of family separation, particularly when legal proceedings are involved,[6] although the participation of professionals such as lawyers, judges and psychologists may also contribute to conflict.[7]

Proponents of the concept of parental alienation assert that it is primarily motivated by one parent’s desire to exclude the other parent from their child’s life.[8] Some assert that parental alienation should be diagnosable in children as a mental disorder.[9] Some propose that parental alienation be recognized as a form of child abuse or family violence.[2][10] They assert that parental alienation creates stress on the alienated parent and the child,[11][12] and significantly increases the child’s lifetime risk of mental illness.[13][14][15]…( See more on Wikipedia ) *This is true in many counties in some more than others.

It is important to know that children belong to God and are entrusted to their parents! They need good role models. It is becoming more and more difficult to find balanced wise role models in this day and age for children. A good parent knows that their well-being is always a top priority. You should always consult GOD and HIS WORD for direction. God holds all of us accountable for how we raise and influence our children as well as others.

 

~ Parental Alienation is Real! ~

Know this; You cannot take the place of their father. Nor can the father take your place.
GOD IS MORE THAN ALBE TO DIRECT & HELP YOU! Truly having the LORD in your daily life will make all the difference in the world. If this not the caste start now!

 

God from the beginning of time has designed life in such a way that reproduction/procreation of life takes a man and a woman to produce a child. Together strive and thrive to help them become secure and whole in who they are.  They need to be loved, nurtured and given healthy boundaries. They need to know that they have the right to speak up for themselves! They also need to know that God is everywhere and is always with them. Teach them that they can call upon Him at any time & anywhere. Allow GOD to bring PEACE to your heart, home and children!

 

 

A healthy family is important! Dysfunction does not have to be the norm…

 

 

After marriage the family is the greatest institution that God created.  Read carefully throughout Genesis and all throughout GOD’S WORD the high priority He has for healthy spiritual relationships within the family. God is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent, as well as our Creator and Maker. He is the Giver and Sustainer of life.  He always knows what is best for all of us.  But He has given us the freedom to choose His will and way over the ways of the world.  He knows what has been, what is happening now and what will be in the future.  It is wise to humble yourself and commit to submit to Him. Invite Him into your situation and allow Him to direct your path from here… 

 

God can keep you on the Narrow Path that leads to Him. Or if you have strayed, He can get you back wherever you need to be. Salvation is all about getting a grip on sin. Sin is anything that separates us from God. Let NO ONE take the place of GOD within your life. Look to God to help you see clearly wherever you have gone astray.  REPENT!!! WHICH SIMPLY MEANS TO TURN FROM SIN AND TURN BACK TO GOD! He has given us our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to save us from allowing the power of sin to reign within our daily lives. As well He has given us HIS precious Holy Spirit and Comforter to lead us to all TRUTH! 

 

The well-being of your children should always be a top priority! Give up your insecurity, hurt as well as resentment… ALLOW GOD to bring healing to you, your children, your home and your hearts. GOD is the ULTIMATE FATHER above Him there is NONE OTHER! Truly He can heal, lead, guide, direct, protect and provide a far better life for you and your children.  He will meet you wherever you are and can get you wherever you need to be. Yes, with God, you can become whole!

 

Always keep in mind that God is omniscient, and He knows absolutely everything that has happened will happen and what is going on now.  It is in the best interest of all that are concerned to work towards building a better future for the children. To circumvent less turbulence in their formative teenage years… 

 

Parental Alienation continues to grow all over the world.  It is part of the overall spiritual warfare designed to get your life off track. It persists especially in high conflict relationships and divorces… This world is on a “slippery slope.” It is not going to get better. Today you can find a support group for just about anything, even support for the things that go against the WORD of GOD. PRAY FOR DISCERNMENT! Many of the carnal ways of the world have nested themselves in the amidst of God’s Church. LORD HELP US!!! As believers, “We are to be in the world but NOT of the world!” GOD HAS A BETTER WAY! Do seek HIS WILL and HIS WAY above the ways of this world. Yes, with the HELP of GOD you can “BREAK THE CYCLE!”

LORD HAVE MERCY!!!
STOP the madness!!!

“DRAW NIGH TO GOD AND HE WILL DRAW NIGH TO YOU!”

GOD’S ETERNAL UNFAILING PURPOSE THROUGH HIS GOSPEL

COME TO JESUS!!!

THE CHURCH IS THE BRIDE OF CHRIST

“JESUS CHRIST IS THE WAY THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE!”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YES LORD!

THERE IS MUCH GOING ON ALL AROUND US IN THIS WORLD TODAY. MANY OF THE WAYS OF THE WORLD HAVE NESTED THEMSELVES IN THE MIDST OF GOD’S CHURCH. This destructive  Coronavirus pestilence & plague  is going on all throughout the world. It has proven it CANNOT CONTINUE to simply BE CHURCH AS USUAL. THE PERILOUS DAYS ARE UPON US. THERE IS MORE TO COME…

 

“BE GOD’S CHURCH EVERYDAY & EVERYWHERE!”

 

GOD IS SPEAKING TO HIS CHURCH AND THIS WORLD. WE ALL MUST GET BETTER AT LISTENING. KNOW HIS STRONG STILL VOICE. HE WILL NOT TELL US TO DO ANYTHING THAT GOES AGAINST HIS WORD. 

 

GOD IS LOVE & HIS LOVE IS EVERLASTING!

 

~ GOD’S ETERNAL, UNFAILING PURPOSE THROUGH HIS GOSPEL ~

 

IT IS WRITTEN;

“BUT IF THE SPIRIT OF HIM THAT RAISED UP JESUS FROM THE DEAD DWELL IN YOU, HE THAT RAISED UP CHRIST FROM THE DEAD SHALL ALSO QUICKEN YOUR MORTAL BODIES BY HIS SPIRIT THAT DWELLETH IN YOU…

  

“AND WE KNOW THAT ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD TO THEM THAT LOVE GOD, TO THEM WHO ARE THE CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE.

 

FOR WHOM HE DID FOREKNOW, HE ALSO DID PREDESTINATE TO BE CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON, THAT HE MIGHT BE THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN/SISTERS.

 

MOREOVER, WHOM HE DID PREDESTINATE, THEM HE ALSO CALLED; AND WHOM HE CALLED, THEM HE ALSO JUSTIFED; AND WHOM HE JUSTIFIED THEM HE ALSO GLORIFIED.

 

WHAT SHALL WE THEN SAY TO THESE THINGS? IF GOD BE FOR US WHO CAN BE AGAINST US?” ROMANS 8

 

GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS!

KNOW GOD AND HIS WORD FOR YOURSELF!

 

 

GOD’S SOVEREIGN WISDOM AND GRACE IS WORKING OUT HIS PURPOSE REGARDLESS OF THOSE WHO ARE UNFAITHFUL TO HIS WORD. 

THEREFORE ABOVE EVERYONE AND EVERYTHNG;

“…SEEK YE FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS AND EVERYTHING ELSE WILL BE ADDED UNTO YOU.” MATTHEW 6

 

CHRIST JESUS IS COMING BACK FOR HIS CHURCH WITHOUT SPOT OR WRINKLE.

NOW IS THE TIME TO PREPARE TO MEET HIM IN THE AIR. THAT IS IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY TRANSITIONED TO HEAVEN BEFORE HE RETURNS.  THERFORE LIVE EACH DAY EXPECTING HIS RETURN!  KNOW TODAY WITHOUT DOUBT WHERE YOU WILL WILL SPEND ETERNITY!  “DRAW NIGH TO GOD AND HE WILL DRAW NIGH TO YOU!” 

 

 

THE LAST MESSAGE IN GOD’S WORD.

IT IS WRITTEN; 

“AND BEHOLD I COME QUICKLY; AND MY REWARD IS WITH ME. TO GIVE EVERY Man/Woman ACCORDING TO His/Her WORK SHALL BE.

 

I AM  ALPHA AND OMEGA, THE BEGINNNG AND THE END, THE FIRST AND THE LAST.

BLESSED ARE  THAT  THEY DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, THAT THEY MAY HAVE RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE, AND MAY ENTER IN THROUGH THE GATES OF THE CITY.

 

FOR WITHOUT ARE dogs,  and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murders, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and make a lie.

 

I JESUS HAVE SENT MINE ANGEL TO TESTIFY UNTO YOU THESE THINGS IN THE CHURCHES. I AM THE ROOT  AND THE SPIRIT AND THE OFFSPRING OF DAVID, AND THE BRIGHT AND MORNING STAR. 

 

AND THE SPIRIT AND THE BRIDE SAY, COME. AND LET Him/Her  THAT HEARETH SAY, COME…” REVELATION 22

 

GOD SAYS; REPENT!!!

KNOW GOD AND HIS WORD FOR YOURSELF. SPEND TIME DAILY WITH THE LORD IN HIS WORD! “PRAY WITHOUT CEASING” & TAKE PRAISE BREAKS ALL THROUGHOUT YOUR DAY!  THIS IS HOW WE STAY CONNECTED TO THE LORD. GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES.   

 

ABBA HEAVENLY HOLY FATHER GOD TAKES CARE OF HIS OWN FOR TRULY; “HE’S A GREAT GOD”  NOW & FOREVER MORE!

 

YES INDEED; GOD IS FOREVER FAITHFUL! 

SEEK GOD ABOVE ALL!!!

JESUS! JESUS!! JESUS!!!

Pray for discernment!

The “Perilous Days” are upon us!

“WE OUGHT TO OBEY GOD RATHER THAN Men/Women…” Acts 5

“The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof the world and them that dwell therein, He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the floods…” Psalm 24

“Stand fast in the liberty where CHRIST has set you FREE and be not entangled again with a yoke of bondage. Galatians 4

Pray daily & Seek God above all!!!

Abba Heavenly Holy Father,

We acknowledge you today and everyday as the KING of Kings & the LORD of Lords. You are the ALPHA & the OMEGA the beginning & the end, the first & the last. Lord truly you are; “THE GREAT I AM!” Above You there is no other! Lord God, You are the Father of Abraham, Isaac & Jacob. You are the Father of us. Thank You Father for being in the midst of us and for your omnipresence. Thank you for keeping us on the path of righteousness for your namesake.

We know without doubt that CHRIST JESUS is the Head of Your Church for this we thank you. Thank You for Your precious Holy Spirit Your Comforter. Thank you Father for your everlasting love. Lord we know that you are preparing your Church for the return of our Lord & SAVIOR CHRIST JESUS. Father God, our faith, hope & trust is forever in You. Therefore, we pray and beseech you in Jesus Name; Lord may Your Word continue to boldly go forth all throughout the world…

GOD IS MORE THAN ABLE!

As the world grows colder to the truth of God’s Word know it is on a “slippery slope.” Many of the ways of the world have also nested themselves in the midst of many places of worship… Allow God His place within your life. He will meet you right where you are and take you where you need to be as you learn to trust HIM… This is why it is so very important for you to know God’s Word for yourself. Therefore, spend time with God in His Word. He can bring peace to your life… Please be aware, be sober, be alert and see what is happening all around us. Know we are living in a spiritual war zone.

There is always hope in the Lord. God says: “REPENT!!!

“HEAVEN IS GOD’S THRONE & The Earth Is HIS Footstool!”

Pray wherever & whenever you are out and about in the world, at work or at home. And yes also during worship turn your mind towards the Lord. Whenever and wherever you worship know this; “GOD IS A SPIRIT AND THEY THAT WORSHIP HIM MUST WORSHIP HIM IN SPIRIT AND IN TRUTH!” John 4 Commit daily to worship the Lord in Spirit & in Truth. Always seek the will & way of the Lord above all. Above all follow JESUS!

“BE GOD’S CHURCH EVERYDAY & EVERYWHERE!”

“PRAY WITHOUT CEASING…” I Thessalonians 5 Give thanks to God throughout your day. And take praise breaks all throughout your day. Recharge your soul and enjoy having your own personal worship. It can be refreshing. Invite the presence of the Lord all around you as well as in your home. Daily embrace God’s Word. For He will place it within your heart. Stay adorned daily in the spiritual armor. See Ephesians 6

“DRAW NIGH TO GOD AND HE WILL DRAW NIGH TO YOU.” Matthew 15

GOD CAN WHEN NO ONE ELSE CAN

God is sovereign He is the Giver and sustainer of life. Everything that you will ever need you can discover in Him. In the Lord you can become whole. An ongoing growing relationship with Christ Jesus can and will tremendously enrich your life in every way. Christianity is a daily lifestyle. Therefore, EVERYDAY; “LIVE OUT LOUD THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST JESUS!” Be led by His Holy Spirit. Seek to live a responsible well balanced life. Embrace truth! Know God and His Word for yourself. For we serve an omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent God! We can always and forever trust God and His Word. You can call upon the Lord 24/7. Oh what an awesome wonderful Savior!

Almighty God is able to lift you and anyone else from anxiety, anger, depression, doubt, fear, hate, oppression, prejudiceness, poverty and anything else that is not of Him. “GOD IS LOVE!” Know that life is a precious GIFT from GOD. HE LOVES You and has a plan for your life. It is your choice to seek Him above all else to discover everything that you will ever need for life, daily living and eternal life… Embrace God and His Word daily.

If you really want to be FREE know this;

” …If ye continue in My Word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And you shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free! ” John 8

Then;

“Seek ye first the Kingdom of GOD and HIS righteousness and everything else will be added unto you…” Matthew 6

SEEK GOD ABOVE ALL!!!

Famine of Righteousness Part 2

Ezekiel models a godly lesson to the people

Ezekiel was a wise prophet. He went so far that he actually humbly acted out with great dramatization the need to be obedient. He personally modeled a thought provoking godly message to the people. To prove his point, he himself laid bound on his side facing a clay model of Jerusalem for 390 days. He ate a simple meal of wheat, barley, beans and lentils, millet and spelt baked into bread cake weighing about 8oz, that was cooked on cows dung.

He then turned to his other side and lay there for another 40 days. This was an additional reminder to remind them of their 40 years spent wandering in the wilderness. Ezekiel went to great lengths to get their attention. He earnestly wanted them to return to the Lord. He even shared his vision of the corrupted Temple. They were experiencing a “famine of righteousness.”

There was absolutely no doubt that the “hand of the Lord” was upon Ezekiel. The Lord gave him graphic picturesque visions. The people however still simply refused to listen. Ezekiel personally experienced “The GLORY of the LORD” on many occasions. Over sixty times throughout the Book of Ezekiel he repeated “Then they will know that I am the Lord.” Ezekiel was known for his strangeness. He took grave measures to demonstrate his dedication to the Lord.

The many prophets before him had also been often ignored. Their unfavorable messages were overlooked and thought of as negative. Yet despite the odds God kept, sustained and strengthened them. The Lord said to Ezekiel; “Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you…” He said “Son of man I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; and they and their fathers have been in revolt against me to this very day. The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn…”

The Lord told Ezekiel to speak HIS WORD to them whether they listened or not. Ezekiel was given a scroll to eat. As he ate it, he said “So I ate it, and it tasted as sweet as honey in my mouth.” They simply just did not want to receive the message that Ezekiel presented to them. God’s Word will yield conviction but there is a savory lasting sweetness when digested. They could not see how they had allowed the world, bureaucratic politics and its foreign customs and ways into the Temple. Ezekiel was able to experience the “Glory of the Lord” because of His obedience.

GOD is so AWESOME!

Many of the ways of the world have nested themselves in the midst the Church of God

Today it is really no different, the world and society in which we live continuously attempts to embed its principles within the people of God. To make acceptable what God has said is not acceptable and to cloak and present itself as though one is practicing unconditional love. Yes, “God is Love”  but He is also a just God. According to Nahum; “The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, He will not acquit the wicked.” Deception is all about us. Today because of it we too are experiencing a “famine of righteousness.”

God’s principles for life and living are continuously put on the back burner. Ezekiel is such a good example because he had a real concern for the abuse that was taking place within God’s Temple. Sin was rampart among the people of God. Many of the leaders had simply lost their faith and were trying many alternative ways. They wanted the accolades of the people over the favor of God. Ezekiel was shown firsthand the “wicked and detestable things that they were doing.” They had banned together and plotted wickedness. They had embraced and accepted quite worldly practices and worship that was not acceptable to God. They had allowed the world into God’s Temple. The Glory of the Lord departed from the Temple.

True Worship

Pray all throughout worship. Manipulation does not move the Lord. Worship should never be about theatrics. There are many different modes of worship. Know this, God’s Holy Spirit is never not aware of what’s going on anywhere. This is true even if there are all types of emotional outbursts. Grief, sadness and the light or heavy normal burdens of life can bring forth sadness and tears. When this happens pray and place your focus upon the Lord. A sweet gentle release can come about. ” Rejoice in the Lord! Again I say rejoice! ” For our God is omniscient and therefore always knows about everything and everyone at all times. Peace, joy, meekness and self control are fruits of the Holy Spirit.

When deliverance is needed there will be all sorts of frantic emotional outbreaks. But this is not praise it’s pain, burdens and suffering… One must be led by His Holy Spirit to know and discern when and when not to respond. It is also a time to pray, focus and intercede for chains and depressive burdens to be broken and lifted… It is during deliverance we petition and evoke the infilling presence of the Lord to intervene and cast out doubt, fear, torment, pain, demonic influences, and anything that is not of Him… This is a time for deep intense fervent intercession. This is not always apparent to onlookers. For fervent prayer is also being in a focused prayerful state of mind… Always keeping in mind God is never far from us… YES, do praise and thank our LORD GOD when deliverance comes forth. For HE is the ONE who gets the GLORY!

It takes courage to “STAND!” upon the principles of GOD!

Yes, we can freely worship and praise the Lord. However, we should always be mindful that our worship & praise is to God! Our almighty fortress God is forever worthy of “True Worship.” We need to daily ask for the infilling presence of His Holy Spirit. Yes, this world is on a “slippery slope”. Yet, we can still depend on the Lord God to keep us safe even in the midst of an unstable world. Even when we know this world is experiencing a “famine of righteousness.” Therefore, stay on, the ” Narrow Path “ that has fewer travelers. It is very important to know that despite how things appear; “God is always ultimately in control.”

Stay focused upon the Lord; don’t become distracted

Ezekiel again is a wonderful memorable example. He displays how God may require you to do some things and give up some things. Some of the customarily practiced traditional behaviors should be abandoned. Being those things that distract from who God is; rather than welcome His presence. Worship should not be out of habit or simply a learned behavior. It is a natural expression of praise, thanks and appreciation towards God. From a carnal perspective many simply cannot comprehend this. They do not see that many hinderances have been adopted… When God reveals something to you respond or do not respond accordingly. Looking through the lenses of one’s spiritual eyes you can better grasp the spiritual significance of the action.

God always leaves a remnant of His people. He always has something better for us. There is always more with the Lord. He wants us to grow in His grace, wisdom and knowledge. He does not ever want us to be stuck in mediocracy. He wants to manifest and multiply the Fruit of His Spirit within us. This is why it is so important to know firsthand the Word of God for yourself. This way you are not just towed along with whatever is going on. Sometimes we are to observe. God’s Word is rich and powerful. It contains a plethora of lessons of disobedience, betrayal, rejection, spiritual warfare, power, and love. Christ Jesus became the Word wrapped in sinless flesh. He conquered sin in the flesh for us all. True victory is always found in the Lord and abiding within His principles.

God sometime requires us to do some seemingly strange things. Sometimes we are to observe and pray. When God’s Spirit is with you, you can expect to at times to be persecution, ridiculed, misunderstood or rejected. It is in seemingly hopeless situations that God is able to do a great work through you or to you.  We are to remain disciplined and alert.  There is nothing more important in life than your relationship with the Lord.

Benefits of the believers faith

Our faith, hope and trust must always be in the Lord. Jesus Christ’s life, death, crucifixion and resurrection were for a great purpose.  It is because of Him we have been bestowed with eternal life. It is by faith we walk in obedience to our professed salvation.  Without faith it is impossible to please God.

Life as a Christian comes with a plethora of benefits. As we embrace and implement the truth of His Word we spiritually grow. Hebrews 4 tell us, “For the WORD of GOD is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Each day is a precious gift from the Lord. We should always be able to find something to be thankful for.

We as believers are to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to the Lord. This should be our first priority.  In the Lord we can forever strive and thrive! Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give an account.  We are to always contend for the faith! Daily we have the opportunity to grow in His grace, wisdom, knowledge and understanding. God always has a personal interest in the lives of His children, even when there is a “famine of righteousness.”

HALLLELLLUJAH PRAISE GOD!

Contending for the Faith Part 2

God never intended for Christianity to become a legalistic doctrinal concept of rules and regulations.  God will  write His laws within your heart as you embrace His Word. Christianity is a daily lifestyle! The HOUSE of GOD is supposed to be the PILLAR of TRUTH! Learn to  focus more on the Lord than upon your issues when you are in worship. Yes, be mindful and cognizant of what is going on all around you. For spiritual warfare persists everywhere…  And remember  your place of worship is supposed to be a place where the Spirit of the Lord is welcomed. Many gather and assemble together to worship, thank, honor, adore and praise GOD.  

It is written!

The Apostle Paul writes to Timothy. He was concerned about what was going on during worship. He was well aware of the contentions as well as the false unspiritual teaching that was circulating. Paul charges Timothy as a Pastor to teach sound doctrine, war a good warfare, embrace his faith and steadfastly adhere to the Word of God. These concerns remain today. Paul writes;

“These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:

But if I tarry long, that thou oughtest to behave thyself in the House of God, which is the Church of the living God, the Pillar and Ground of Truth.

And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: GOD was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received into glory.” I Timothy 3

Jesus came to give us a better life!

Christ died so we could have an abundant spiritual life in every way. Yet today many make their issues the theme of life and ministry. Jesus did not come to build hospitals or mausoleums.  He could have built places of worship for all his disciples or simply spoke them into existence… Think about Joseph his earthly father was a professional carpenter. The Gospel is about Christ Jesus from the beginning.

Jesus came to give us a better life and to teach us the way; centered upon God. He came to overcome sin in the flesh and show us how to live victoriously in the Lord.  Everything was spoken into existence through Him and everything consists by and for Him. He came to share with us the beauty of His creation. And to direct us on; “the path of righteousness for His namesake.” Yes indeed, He died on the cross and rose with all power for us all to have an abundant life in every way.

Much is going on in these latter days.

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils…” I Timothy 4

Jesus made no one feel comfortable in sin. It is so very important to know God’s Word for yourself. This way you will not easily be misled. Notice what happens  as  you read  His Word. Your understanding will expand and your faith will increase. You will learn how He always stood for what was right.  

Jesus was terribly misunderstood by those who should have known better.   He was falsely accused.  As a matter of fact it was the religious leaders that conspired to discredit Jesus and secretly sought to destroy Him. How ironic they called Him evil. All due to their own insecurity. They actually chose to go into denial rather than embrace the principles of Truth of His Word.  Does any of this sound familiar?

The Holy Spirit will convict us of sin!

No, things will not always go your way. But the Lord can bring you through any situation with His peace. He wants you to draw closer to Him everyday. God has a plan for your life. It is our choice to discover it. For; “Jesus is the Way the Truth and the Life!” The Bible is the inspired Word of God. “It is a Lamp unto our feet and a Light unto our path…”

The gift of Salvation and Eternal Life is one of the most precious gifts one can ever receive. Along with that gift comes the promise of His Holy Spirit; the Comforter and ultimate internal Teacher. As you learn and apply His Word it will be written upon the table of your heart. Your desire to live for the Lord and contend for the faith will grow.

Jude extends to us mercy, peace and love in abundance through Christ Jesus.  When Jesus ascended to heaven He fulfilled that promise that; the Holy Spirit would come. Jesus prepared His disciples for His departure. He knew when He came that He would eventually return to Heaven. At His appointed time Christ Jesus will return for His Church that still remains.

He told them “Nevertheless I tell you the TRUTH. It is to your advantage that I go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment; of sin, because they do not believe in Me, of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. I still have many things to say to you, BUT you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of TRUTH, has come, He will guide you into All truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come…” JOHN 16

Deliverance is possible

Jude known as the brother of Jesus Christ tells us that we have a duty to fight for GOD’S TRUTH! Not in a physical carnal way. Our weapons are not carnal! But they are mighty. We must daily stay adorned with the spiritual armor.  For we can pull down strongholds… Deliverance is possible.

As believers, our lives don’t belong to us for we belong to God. The Apostle Paul teaches us the importance of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. “PRAY also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the GOSPEL, for which I am an Ambassador in chains. PRAY that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should” See Ephesians 6

Without doubt we are in the last days and the Word of God is being fulfilled! Look around and be attentive to all the worldwide perils that continue to daily persist. We need not be afraid but prayerful! It is important to persevere knowing that God is with you. For GOD is omnipresent.

Jude says: “But dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, “In the last times, there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires. These are the men who divide you. Who follow mere natural instincts and DO NOT have the SPIRIT. But you, dear friends build yourself up in your most HOLY FAITH and pray in the HOLY SPIRIT. Keep yourselves up in God’s LOVE as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring eternal life. Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh…

There is no recession in heaven

One must only watch the news, read the newspaper or search online to see that time is near! By the way; everything you see or hear that is going on via face book is not true. Daily; just about “Anything goes!”  This world is on a “Slippery Slope!”  There is was not only ongoing consequences from the   Economic Recession but a “SPIRITUAL RECESSION” continues as well. 

But know this; THERE IS NEVER LACK OR A RECESSION IN HEAVEN! Many of our churches are sometimes allowing carnal worldly teachings… Bible study on some occasions have even turned to group think and mind conditioning.  Often ridded with many coded messages to point out those who do not conform to the group. God never intended for us to give up our individuality.  Uniformity is not the same thing as unity. 

Righteousness

Respect for God and His Word are  all too often laid aside; carnality takes the forefront because somebody says; “I’m human” The time of increased Apostasy is definitely here! Meaning the abandoning of Faith. LORD HELP US! Anyone can be subject to error.  Remember, when someone says something that you know is not true.  Know that it is not from GOD! This is why we all need His Holy Spirit to convict the heart of sin and keep us pointed unto righteousness. What is righteousness? It is right living and thinking in the eyes of God! Sin is anything that separates us from God! Jude says: Remember Sodom and Gomorrah?  well, God has not changed. This is why Jesus left us His Holy Spirit!

Live or begin to live each day; “To GOD BE the GLORY!” Having an encounter with God regularly will bring you closer to Him.  Take time throughout your day to “PRAY WITHOUT CEASING!” Shift your mind to the Lord continuously.  This is how you stay connected to the Lord.  Remember God is omniscient He wants to open your understanding and make you even more aware. He can and  will open your “spiritual eyes.” This is also why we must daily contend for the Faith, so know His Word and stand firm! 

Thank You Holy Father for sanctifying us through Christ Jesus and calling us  as your Elders/Ministers and Ambassadors. We are not called to conform to this world. But to uphold HIS WORD. We are called to to daily “Contend for the Faith!”

REPENT!!!

If you have grown slack in your commitment to God; He can speak renewal and strength into your heart. If you are depressed or oppressed  He can lift you up and take you to wherever you need to be. When GOD says He can deliver you HE CAN! However, you must humbly submit to HIS WILL and diligently pursue TRUTH!

GOD can bring a plan and a purpose into your life like no other. This is what Jude leaves us with;  “To HIM who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great JOY to the only GOD and SAVIOR be GLORY, MAJESTY, POWER and AUTHORITY, through JESUS CHRIST our LORD, before all ages, now and forevermore! AMEN!!!”

Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Self- Control” Part 9 No. 3 of 3

Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Self-Control”

 

Part 9 No. 3 of 3

Trust and good communication are crucial values within a great marriage. Transparency and intimacy are built upon trust. It is really important to not rush into making any decisions that will impact the rest of your life. Being focused is important. Take time and first consider the consequences! There is always much to learn about one another. Keep your marriage exciting. Progressively work on building good communication skills. You can maintain the spark that brought you together. Or if you have allowed it to dwindle you can rekindle it.

 

 

Here are few final things to keep in mind

Make it a point to have some good healthy quality discussions before you jump heart first into marriage. If you are already married take the time to find out how your spouse feels, thinks and processes their thoughts and emotions. Being focused is important. Please don’t just assume how they are feeling. Feelings need to be validated.

 

Have some deep heartfelt discussions. You need to really know what one another values.

You are two different individuals who must learn to walk together.  Remember your vows you made to one another.  Were they just words?  Remember the love, emotions and feelings that brought you together. It is possible but it takes commitment and transparency to keep those precious moments.  Emotional intimacy is important in marriage.

 

 

Each marriage has its own unique dynamics. Here are a few suggestions and questions to ponder and discuss.

 

What are your likes and dislikes? How do feel about having or not having children? What are your beliefs in regard to discipline? How do you feel about the manner in why or how you both handle discipline? How do you both resolve conflict? Who or what do they believe in? How do they feel about God and prayer? What are your spouse’s moral standards or convictions or do they have any at all… Is faithfulness important? What does it really mean to be faithful? What about the finances?  Are there any abuse issues that need to be addressed? Are there any addictions? Is divorce an option? These are a few of the many things you want to discuss and ponder in order to build a better marriage!

 

When you both share the same values, morals and goals it helps to build a healthier emotional bond. You have the needed components necessary to build a strong foundation for your marriage. This also accelerates your marriage to a higher functioning level. If you have very little in common at least now you know this. As you go forward in order to build a strong marriage you want to continue to be transparent with one another.  

 

If you do not have much in common you really need to have some serious discussion about what you are expecting from one another.  What are your goals for your marriage? How do we decide whose perspective is right or better?  You need to at least have some idea as to the direction your marriage is headed.    You want to make sure that the feelings you have are not just “intoxicating affections.”   Why? Because they won’t last.  being focused is important. You really want to make sure you are on the same page about true godly love and commitment.  So where do we go from here.

 

The growing trend today is to simply just change partners when you are not happy. Some people are quite shallow in their idea of commitment. Infidelity is a big No! No! It is vaguely possible, but few marriages ever really recover from continued infidelity.  Which really is not marriage; but it is really a revolving door.  This breeds distrust and insecurity.  Many proceed in denial not resolving the present void or distrust.  When trust has been broken it must be restored or this will become a destructive relational pattern. As adults you have the right to decide, but you always should consider the long-and short-term consequences. Divorce or continued conflict is inevitable when not fully confronted and addressed.

 

Let’s begin to get rid of the baggage!

 

I recommend taking some time to rid yourself of some of the baggage that you have been carrying before jumping into another marriage or relationship. All too often it is just pushed to the side only to rise and cause even greater problems the second or even third time around further down the road.  If you are already married work with what you have. Revisit your vows. Take inventory and then set some goals together. Recapture the good tender moments that brought you together. It’s important to make plans together.   Your marriage won’t just work itself out.

 

The grass looks greener on the other side of the fence. The TRUTH is, its greener because they water it consistently, they maintain, feed and take care of it. Your marriage will be what you both make it.

 

Now is the time to begin to exercise self-control as well as fervently embrace all the rest of the benefits of earnestly seeking the Lord for the “Fruit of the Spirit.” After all you have   or did make a Covenant with one another and to God… This makes your marriage a Holy agreement. Or perhaps just words you repeated? Being focused is important. Setting and reaching goals together is important. Therefore, seek quality Holy Help from God whenever necessary. Humble yourself before the Lord. The Fruit of His Spirit is produced within us only by God’s precious Holy Spirit. What is so beautiful about God is; God cannot ever be manipulated. However, He is always omnipresent with us and always knows absolutely where we are coming from. GOD is The SPIRIT of TRUTH! This is why it is so vitally important to establish an ongoing genuine relationship of Trust with Him. You do not even have to speak aloud a word. He hears and knows all that is spoken or unspoken. What an awewonderful powerful God He is for He truly is; “THE MOST HIGH GOD!”

“Praying without ceasing” is a meditative state of mind that keeps us focused upon staying connected to GOD!

Know this, marriage is only for this side of Heaven. We are bestowed with the opportunity to experience the ultimate human oneness in marriage while we inhabit the earth. Your marriage will be whatever you allow it to be… There is no marrying in Heaven. So, if this is your choice for here on earth give it your best. Reach for a life of quality! Always trust God to lead you not only in your marriage but in all areas of your life for in Him rests complete understanding and wisdom. In God you can be whole!

Praying together is important as well! Praying without ceasing” all throughout your day keeps you connected to the Lord. It is an intimate personal wireless communication connection with God. This is a cognizant healthy state of mind clarity when you practice being focused upon God. This is how you become whole. Your desire should always be to please God. “Perfect Love casts our fear.” Trusting God is one of the most important things that you can ever learn to do. For God always has our best interest at heart. He is our endless source of love and wisdom. God will never leave nor forsake us! This can and will keep you from being depressed or fearful. “FATHER GOD ALWAYS KNOWS BEST!”

Happiness is a choice, so you both need to decide to make this a mutual goal. There will be highs and lows.  Unhappiness does not have to be the theme of your marriage. So always make love deposits of care, concern, love, respect, romance and thoughtfulness to your marriage. This will help you weather the storms of life. It leaves less room for anxiety and unhappiness to dominant your lives and marriage. Strive and thrive to create a nurturing safe haven. This also helps you to rise above the storms of life.  You cannot change one another. But you can create a healthy atmosphere that fosters change. There is always room for improvement in all of us. “We are forever becoming. We never arrive.” Well that is the case until Christ Jesus comes for us. You can help bring out the better qualities in one another. Or you can bring out the worst in one another. Take note of your personal progress. Work on becoming the “Best You.” Your marriage should always be a priority. Working together will have definite amazing results!

Exercising self-control is a choice. If you are weak in this area. Get right! Rather than tearing one another down all the time build one another up! Chastise one another in love instead to encourage self-improvement. Correction is a part of love. Challenge one another. Do withdraw from nagging. Abandon dysfunctional ways of living. Check yourself! Don’t allow carnality to rule your life.   Uphold healthy boundaries. Self-control is helpful in all areas our lives. Love attracts. So, make it a goal to keep your love alive! Have some good healthy dialogue and let whatever has hindered your marriage to this point go and move forward as partners. Never take one another for granted.

No, you do not go forward in denial. Forgiving does not mean forgetting. You want to remember, and you also want to get over the pain. It means that you have decided to let whatever it is go and move forward not holding the offense against them. The past becomes a reminder of your decision to let go and move on. Or make it a point before you go down that road to minimize making pain a major component in your life and marriage. You make a point to consciously let go of the old offenses and make way for the new awaiting life. This is a lifestyle change for a better future! This is possible when you don’t allow the not so good large or small things of the past to become the present… Each day now becomes a new day for building a better life and marriage. If your marriage is great Hallelujah Thank God!

“LIVE BEFORE AN AUDIENCE OF ONE!”

Welcome embracing all the “Fruit of the Spirit” in your life every day. Life is a precious gift from God. I assure you that in the long run, you will be much happier. Since God has given us all free choice make it a goal to continuously make better choices even if you already do. The spiritual warfare about us is real and continues to want to hinder us sometimes in the slightest ways. When you daily apply and practice godly principles you and your spouse will also benefit greatly. You both can become stronger together. “Iron sharpeneth iron” Come what may, be encouraged! You can do this; because remember happiness is a choice!

By the way, if you are divorced, in the process of a divorce married or remarried make a sincere attempt to not involve the children in your disputes.  If you have; STOP!  DON’T TRY AND MAKE ADULTS OUT OF YOUR CHILDREN. They are already suffering because of the disharmony that they see or sense between you. They too also have their own challenges dealing with growing up since we live in a very complicated complex world. Please don’t use them as message carriers. It is selfish to use them for your emotional support.  You both are supposed to be their caregivers…  After all, your first priority should be for their emotional well-being. Please do not go on a guilt trip about what has been. Stay on the Narrow Path with God. Seek now to make life a pleasant journey. Do remember and embrace the lessons learned from it. And yes, continue to press forward.

In the case of divorce, the truth is you two were not able to resolve your own conflicts. This may be the case of one or both of you. Children are more observant than you think. You have been in an emotional battle, and it has spawned some residual hurt feelings. Their resentment will surface in many ways due to the collateral damage they are experiencing.  This may not have been your intention but there is a residual of resentment.  Give your children the opportunity to express themselves. But it is important that they are always encouraged to be responsible and respectful.  Seek to break the cycle of dysfunction.  Allow their reactions to be the catalyst and motivation to want to build an even heathier environment for them. Keep in mind they have their own natural stresses and growing pains to manage through… You want to help prepare them for whenever they decide to marry. They still need to learn how to develop healthy coping skills and so do you as parents.  Let this encourage you to model to them the “Fruit of the Spirit” as you all move forward together or separately. Always focus on how to improve your quality of life and building a healthy environment in and around you mentally, physically as well as visually.

Be careful of who you receive counsel from or who you allow to speak into your marriage or your life. Experience is not always the best teacher. But it is always wise to welcome godly wisdom. When someone says something that you do not like or agree with it does not necessarily mean that they are being negative. Loving others is not telling them what they want to hear. If its true ponder and accept it or if not have exit ear and keep progressively moving forward. Be accountable to God for your own behavior. Make sure that you own up to your contribution of whatever problems or issues your marriage is experiencing. Marriage is supposed to be a team effort. Not all spouses naturally embrace teamwork. But it does not necessarily take a team to destroy your marriage. By one spouse’s own willful behavior divorce can result.  It does take both of you working together not against one another to make it work. 

Diligently daily seek the Lord’s direction. Make it a priority to take time to; “BE STILL and KNOW”
Psalm 46

 

As a believer it should always be more important to you to please GOD. This does not mean getting caught up in all the local Church activities to the degree you neglect your home life. Know it also pleases God when you keep your vows you have made to Him and your spouse. Ministry starts in your home. In this 21st century some of everything goes on within the many places of worship. So stay focused and also be aware of what is going on about you. Establish a mode of sincerely worshipping God. You must commit to spend time with the Lord in His Word and draw closer to Him. Your own personal Bible Study and studying together is important as well. This is where and how you will gain healthier spiritual strength. Remember we the people are God’s Church.

There really is nothing more important than growing closer to God. He is the quintessential essence of everlasting life. I assure you, all that you will ever need for life, daily living and eternal life you can discover in an ongoing healthy personal intimate relationship with God.

Remember our relationship as Believers with God is eternal. For there is life beyond earth. Be certain today without a doubt where you will spend eternity. GOD IS OMNISCIENT! When you seek HIM above all else there are marvelous unlimited benefits. Know that your body is the Temple of God. You need to feed and nurture your body and soul spiritually and physically. Know when and how to eat and know when to fast. Think and ponder upon this for a moment; God is the Creator of Heaven and earth. He is the Creator of man and woman. No one knows better than He about anything. He can and will direct you in every area of your life. He will never leave nor forsake you. To truly know this you must believe this without doubt.

 

Marriage God’s way can and does work. God has ordained marriage so do not leave Him out of it. But you both must be willing to mutually embrace His godly principles and actually implement them within your marriage. God wants to be a part of every area of your life. God does not want you to spend your life unhappy, bitter or broken. God does not have to break you to use you. He can meet you right where you are. But He does want you to take seriously the vows that you both made to Him. You can recover from this.  But recovery takes hard work! 

Every day is a precious “GIFT” from the Lord. What you do with your life is your gift to Him. Strive and thrive to be better helpmeets to one another. So, lets get busy building a life and a marriage that lasts.   This way everyone benefits. May your efforts in Holy Matrimony prevail!

 

“But the Fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self Control…” Galatians 5. May they all by God’s marvelous grace manifest, multiply and abound within your lives, homes and your marriage!

 

May God’s Eternal Everlasting Love begin to flourish and abound between you now and forever!

Tags: #being focused, #praying without ceasing, #wireless communication, baggage, be still and know, collateral damage, commitment, communication, discipline, divorce, essence, faithfulness, Fruit of the Spirit, gentleness, harmony, healthy environment, helpmeet, Holy Matrimony, intimacy, joy, kindness, love, marriage, marriage counseling, patience, peace, Self Control, sex, trust

Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Self-Control” Part 9 No. 2 of 3

January 1, 2020 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans  
Filed under Marriage & Relationships

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Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Self-Control”

 

Part 9

No. 2 of 3

Marriage is a spiritual battle ground in this 21st century. Look around you! Division wants to nest itself within your marriage; so be aware. Have you noticed the frequency in which couples are divorcing? Why is this? Many enter into marriage without first really getting to know this person who they have promised to love and cherish.

 

Take the time to get to know one another better rather than to simply co-exist. For your marriage to endure it is important to build a strong foundation.

 

Self-control is a viable component of a strong healthy marriage. There are many forces at work to create havoc within your marriage. One must pray for discernment. It is important that you make your marriage and one another’s well-being an important priority. Self-control when consistently exercised will help both of you enhance and safeguard your marriage. Implementing self-control in all aspects of your life is wise. For it also helps you to have healthy boundaries and set limits. This is what helps us to be mature and responsible. You know when to start and stop, when to do and not to do something or simply when to stop or do nothing at all… By both of you embracing and implementing self-control you are actually better equipped to develop healthy boundaries together that keep your marriage safe and secure. 

 

Marriage is serious business and is not for immature people. Immaturity is ageless so just because you are getting older does not necessarily mean that you are ready. There are some things you need to consider. God is always available to help us in all areas of our life. Selfishness or either spouse being self-centered will hinder your marriage from growing in a healthy manner. As two uniquely different people you are committing to keep one another’s well-being as a priority. It is hard to be selfish when you are caring and considerate. However, you do still manage to afford one another needed space to grow and flourish. Over time you actually learn a harmonic cadence of being together or whenever working or walking side by side.

 

Marriage ideally speaking is for one man and one woman who are in one way or another somewhat flawed. This is not to assume negativity exists. But the need for further growth in learning how to be together as you also grow individually. As you come together you both smooth out the rough edges to increase a flow in the relationship. Together you define as well as refine your marriage. In the Lord we are in a continuous mode of being perfected in Him. For it is only in GOD who is our Creator and Maker that we actually can be or become complete! God did not make us to be robots. He has given us free choice. As we embrace and choose His principles He equips and refines us. Together you each learn how to rise above any imperfections.   Marriage is all about teamwork.  You elect to strive and thrive for the perfection that is attainable in a healthy God-centered marriage.    Perfection meaning being complete. 

This is a desirable goal for those who desire to want to mature and grow together and become better individuals working together as a committed team.  It is never too late to start. This also helps us become better individuals. We become better equipped at recognizing different personality traits and behaviors. As well as being sensitive to the needs of those about us. We all are so quite different. You both choose the pathway for your marriage. Keep in mind “ALL have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of GOD…” God has truly given us an excellent flawless example in how He The Father, Son and Holy Spirit all work together as One! As believers we do not or should not allow sin to reign within our lives. Abba Father God is absolutely amazing! We have our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus to call upon 24/7 to help us… This is why we all need HIM as LORD! Therefore, no matter how much we grow in the Lord’s  grace there is always room for improvement as long as He has us on this side of Heaven.

CHRISTIANITY really is a daily lifestyle!

 

Let’s get busy!

 

Each day we are to strive for the perfection that can only  be discovered in the Lord.  “GOD IS LOVE!”  It is in HIM you can increasingly become complete. Being perfect in the Lord is not being arrogant. It is learning how to be content in HIM! GOD would not say “Be ye therefore perfect even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect…”  Matthew 5  If it were not possible God would not tell us otherwise.   It is with the help of the Lord we can become all that He has created us to be and become.  Let’s get busy!

 

Spiritual Oneness in marriage is actually designed to be a harmonic journey. Love, trust and security are components of a good solid marriage. Yes we can also be on one accord with others. But marriage in Ephesians gives us a really great example of how our marriages should reflect and emulate the Love that GOD has for His Church. This is why it is important to keep GOD in the Center! You are aware that the Lord is Omnipresent, Omniscient & Omnipotent. Therefore, you reverently fear God. So, you not only respect your marriage but the marriages of others as well. Marriage should not be taken lightly. In the spiritual sense “two become one” as they are united and committed in their desire to grow in love. True Love has no end. Remember marriage ordained by GOD is; “HOLY MATRIMONY!”

 

Always remember and keep in mind what the WORD teaches us.  Each spouse should seek to become perfect in the LORD. It is God Himself who ordained marriage from the very beginning. So, this is not an unattainable goal.  However, it requires dedication, love, patience, and perseverance. This is quite often misunderstood from a carnal perspective. Remember, becoming perfect in the Lord means to become complete in HIM, not flawless. Nor do we use excuses or condone anything that goes against God’s Word. Everything that you will ever need for Life & Living can be discovered in an ever-growing personal intimate relationship with the Lord. We never get to the point that we do not need God. This is why He has given us our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and His precious Holy Spirit and Comforter.

 

GOD  wants us to be united in HOLY MATRIMONY! 

 

In of ourselves we will always fall short. But God is able to keep us from falling. HIS Holy Spirit is always present to HELP US.  HE IS THE ULTIMATE COMFORTER. It is our choice to seek God’s will & way. As you begin to really embrace the TRUTH of HIS WORD you can responsively say; “I CAN DO ALL THINGS through CHRIST who STRENGTHENS ME” Philippians 4. It is also our choice to become disciplined and constantly reach for HIS HOLY HELP! It is good to know that God is omnipresent.

 

In marriage you learn to give up “me-ness for we-ness!”

 

Self-control helps you to honor your marriage vows. You choose to not let the world and its ever-changing morality influence your commitment to one another. Instead, together you elect to influence the world with God’s principles. You confront issues in love. It is important to not let resentment fester. You embrace your vows and commence to live out your lives working together through any difficulties. You realize that it is mere spiritual warfare designed to pull you away from your Center. All was remember, “GOD IS LOVE!” When God is truly the Center of your marriage, your love blossoms and continuously grows as you learn to soar through life and enjoy the many mountaintop experiences as well. Life can become difficult at times. Yes, there will also be some low times. Without the lows you would not appreciate the highs mountain top moments. God can always bring balance into our lives. Just make it a goal that the lows are few… But together you commit to rise above them. Keep the embers of love flowing… Remember God’s love is eternal for; “GOD IS LOVE!”

 

 

The Fruit of the Spirit are essential virtues that have precious intrinsic worth that will solidify your marriage. Know without doubt that; “GOD IS LOVE!” and that His love is eternal. He is also the Creator of marriage. Love is part of the Fruit of HIS SPIRIT. LOVE is truly a priceless GIFT from the LORD. When you both strive to build a healthy living environment that welcomes love, harmony; trust and respect together you really can build a fulfilling, satisfying strong everlasting marriage.

A godly marriage is a covenant agreement known as; HOLY MATRIMONY. 

Part 9
No. 3 0f 3

Tags: commitment, harmony, healthy environment, Holy Matrimony, Holy Spirit, Husband & Wife, intimacy, love, marriage, persevere, relationships, Self Control, sex, spouse, transparency, trust, virtues

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