FREE! Audiobook – “Proverbs Daily Devotional Goldmine of Spiritual Wisdom” by DeBorrah K. Ogans
December 11, 2021 by Alpha 7 Ministries
Filed under Bible Study, Christian Living, Church, Family
Proverbs Daily Devotional Goldmine of Spiritual Wisdom Audiobook
The Book of Proverbs is a standard of Divine Truth. These Words of wisdom are from the “Court” of King Solomon. They continue to be an endless moral affluence of powerful instructions for wise everyday living.
This audiobook is a Daily Devotional, intended to help you apply practical use of the Proverbs, and to seek after wisdom. It examines all 31 Proverbs, highlighting proverbial lessons you can learn from the life of King Solomon, who was deemed the wisest man to ever live, by God. He left a brilliant legacy, a Goldmine of Spiritual Wisdom.
An excellent companion to the Proverbs. Listen to a chapter daily, before or after your daily Proverb reading. It will help you extract some of the spiritual nuggets of wisdom, and learn how to make better decisions in every area of your life.
Click Here to get a FREE Audiobook with your Audible trial.
Click Here to purchase your copy. Available formats: Kindle, Paperback, Hardcopy, and Audiobook.
“Proverbs Daily Devotional Goldmine Of Spiritual Wisdom” – Kindle Countdown
October 29, 2021 by Alpha 7 Ministries
Filed under Archives
The new book “Proverbs Daily Devotional Goldmine Of Spiritual Wisdom” by DeBorrah K. Ogans will be available during a Kindle Countdown promotion on Amazon from 10/30/2021 – 11/5/2021. During this period you can get a copy of this book at a significantly reduced price.
This book is a Daily Devotional, intended to help you apply practical use of the Proverbs, and to seek after wisdom. It examines all 31 Proverbs, highlighting proverbial lessons you can learn from the life of King Solomon, who was deemed the wisest man to ever live, by God. He left a brilliant legacy, a Goldmine of Spiritual Wisdom.
This devotional will help you extract some of the spiritual nuggets of wisdom from the book of Proverbs, and learn how to make better decisions in every area of your life.
Don’t miss this opportunity to get wisdom. For it is the principal thing.
Click Here to get your copy.
Book Release – “Proverbs Daily Devotional Goldmine Of Spiritual Wisdom”
August 7, 2021 by Alpha 7 Ministries
Filed under Bible Study, Christian Living, Church, Featured Articles, life, Marriage & Relationships
Do you want to learn how to make better decisions in every area of your life?
“God Is Always Speaking, We Just Have To Get Better At Listening!”
The Book of Proverbs is a standard of Divine Truth. These Words of wisdom are from the “Court” of King Solomon. They continue to be an endless moral affluence of powerful instructions for wise everyday living.
This Daily Devotional will help you apply practical use of the Proverbs, and to seek after wisdom. It examines all 31 Proverbs, highlighting proverbial lessons you can learn from the life of King Solomon, who was deemed the wisest man to ever live, by God. He left a brilliant legacy, a Goldmine of Spiritual Wisdom.
Reading and meditating upon a Proverb each day will enlighten you. It will bring you to a deeper profoundly enriched understanding of life. You will benefit as well by gaining an acutely sharpened spiritual discernment, by embracing its wisdom.
Available in all four formats (Kindle, Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook), read or listen to a chapter daily, before or after you read a daily Proverb. It is an excellent companion to the Proverbs that will help you extract some of the spiritual nuggets of wisdom.
“For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.”
Click Here to purchase your copy of Proverbs Daily Devotional Goldmine Of Spiritual Wisdom”. Available formats: Kindle, Paperback, Hardcopy, and Audiobook.
Click Here to get a FREE Audiobook with your Audible trial.
Famine Of Righteousness Part 1
July 28, 2020 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living, Church
Famine Of Righteousness
Worship goes far beyond, just having an emotional experience. It is during worship one can actually experience a closer spiritual encounter with the Lord. Worship includes adoration, exaltation, magnification, glorification and the giving of thanks to the Lord! Webster defines worship as; an extravagant respect admiration or devotion to an object of esteem; reverence paid to a divine being or supernatural power.
RESET!
Everyday is a precious gift from the Lord. Your personal daily devotion to the Lord is important! God can meet you right where you are. Regardless as to what is happening in this world or what is, or is not going in your life; GOD STILL DESERVES to be honored, praised, thanked & worshipped! He can help you meet the challenges that life presents. He can help you rise above them all. Begin to live everyday starting now: ” TO GOD BE THE GLORY! ”
God’s principles for life, living, His Church, marriage and the family as well as “True Worship” are continuously being abandoned. God wants each of us to seek Him first. Everything that we will ever need we can discover in Him.
GOD IS!
God is Omniscient therefore He knows all things spoken or unspoken. There is no fooling God. If you think you can you are only fooling yourself. When you truly believe this you will begin to think and live differently.
God is Omnipotent; meaning all power! God so deserves pure unadulterated worship & praise. God created us to worship Him. It is we who need Him. He did not program us like computers or make us to be robots. He has made each of us uniquely different. We have our very own temperament. It is out of His love and mercy that He allows us the freedom to choose to worship Him. This is not the same as being religious. You can worship just about anything. However, the true worshippers must worship God; “ In SPIRIT and in TRUTH. ”
God is and always will be eternally everlasting. He wants us to live a life of worship. We are living in the midst of an invisible war zone. The battle is not ours. God is able to keep us in the midst of it. However, we must learn to seek Him daily and stay adorned in our spiritual armor. This is why each of us need Christ Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Have a spiritual feast. Daily partake in His Word! Begin to really; “lean & depend on Jesus.” For He wants us to live our lives to please Him. “ For though we live in the world we do not engage in war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world…” II Corinthians 10.
Ezekiel is a great example of a man that chose to live a life of worship and obedience to God. This is not always easy. He was no doubt a “peculiar” man. He was a priest known for his integrity and purpose although he was carried away to Babylon captivity. He remained dedicated to God. It is a conscious choice to live apart from the world yet, remain within it. Despite what was going on about him, he lived what he preached, proclaimed and prophesied. Look about us and see all that is happening. He lived a life centered around worshipping God. Today it is also so very important too that your main focus for life and living for the Lord become your main priority. Instead of just focusing only upon the here and now begin to look deeper.
This is why worship is so very important. “Be still and know.” When your life is built upon the “Solid Rock” principles of the Lord’s Word you will be able to endure and press onward. Even in this day and time when much is going on, do not compromise your godly principles and values to be accepted. We must learn to TRUST GOD regardless of what happens. As children of God He still wants us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding in all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your path straight.” Proverbs 3.
Today we are currently experiencing a “famine of righteousness.”
One must only visit the corridors of scripture to see time and time again the consequences of what happens when the world, a nation, His Church, politicians, or a group of people ignores what God has to say. They often seek to conform to the latest trends. Ezekiel was willing to forego the praises and misunderstanding of God’s people. He did not receive a warm reception, nor was he welcomed or celebrated. Yet he moved all throughout the people serving the Lord. They instead had chosen to accept and embrace the ways of the world.
Our devotion to the Lord must be more than talk. Sometimes it requires that we make grave spiritual sacrifices. Such as time in personal devotion and more time with the Lord in His Word. We are to; ” Be in the world but not of the world…” We must at times forego the support of others. Less dependency upon being accepted by the masses and more focus on honoring God. Less time seeking to be understood yet striving daily to understand the Lord and His marvelous living Word.
We should continually be drawing near to the Lord.
Many are pressured to think in terms of giving sacrifices of material goods or money. Often to the point some neglect to tend to their own home life. Their place of worship has actually become a place to escape? To some their little kingdoms? This is due to many church assemblies have become very material in regards to their constant concern for things for the building. There is nothing wrong to want a nice place of worship. But consider the cost before you build. Is it or will it be a continual burden you must bear. Not everyone is spiritually mature… Please do not continue to fleece the sheep of God… Depending on the assembly, often tithes are used to determine one’s worth, status or their level of participation and influence…
Malachi is often used to enforce the Tithe. It is important to study the Word to know what the Tithe was for and what it actually was… Malachi was the last Old Testament Prophet/Priest sent to Israel by God. He spoke strong rebukes to both the priests as well as to the people. They had faltered in their commitments to the Lord. He called them to “REPENT!” After Malachi there is a silence of 400 or more years. God will make a way for us to do whatever He calls us to do. “…Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not… Malachi 3
Things in themselves are not bad. And it is good to give! But, In some cases money has become some congregations primary focus. Keep in mind; “God loves a cheerful Giver!”
Seek daily the KINGDOM of GOD an HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS
Does not the Lord say; “seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and everything else will be added…” Matthew 6 Well this is true for the assembly of the Church as well. When the Tabernacle which was a grand tent was assembled, they carried it from place to place. Notice all the things that were in the Tabernacle? What they did? What they did not do? What was not allowed? There are 50 chapters devoted in the Bible to the Tabernacle. 17 in Exodus, 18 in Leviticus 13 in Numbers, 2 in Deuteronomy. It was known to be a place to gather together to worship & praise God. It was dedicated as a special place set apart to honor our Lord God; Yahweh!
The main focus and top priority was always to worship GOD! Think about it when Solomon built the Temple. All that he needed to build the place of worship was already provided… For hundreds of years there were no places of worship built for the Church of God to assemble. The Disciples and the Apostles built no places of worship… Jesus built no place of worship. It is your choice to build a place of worship. Therefore trust God!
” Know ye not that; Our bodies are the Temples of GOD! “
There has been a priority shift. Many other things are now included in worship? Some places of worship are more like community centers. Some of everything goes on in the name of the Lord! It is important to know GOD and HIS WORD for yourself. Focus more on Him rather than your issues. Allow Him to strengthen your faith and trust in Him. Think deeper upon the spiritual disciplines. Our future and eternal life rest in the Lord. We are each accountable to God for what we do. Know what God requires of you.
“THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE!”
God speaks to His people in many ways.
God never forgets those who are faithful!
The name Ezekiel means; God is strong or God strengthens! True success in a spiritual sense is not how the people respond to us, but it is how we respond to God! Ezekiel was called to an “obstinate and stubborn” group of people. We too are often called to share our faith live out loud God’s word, with unkind, ungrateful, disrespectful, rude, hard, harsh and spiritually abusive people… Yes indeed know; “The wheat and the tares are growing together…” Yet, God Our Father has promised to; ” NEVER LEAVE NOR FORSAKE US!” He sees everything that is going on. It is vitally important to develop an intimate personal relationship with Him. Daily be led by the Spirit of God regardless as to what the majority is doing. ALL of His promises are true! ” GOD WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU/US! “ The Lord wants us to share the Gospel regardless as to how we might be perceived, even today when we are today in this world are experiencing a “famine of righteousness.”
When studying the book of Ezekiel if you look closely, you will see just how closely it relates to what is going on in the world right now. Ezekiel genuinely wanted the people to understand who God is. He was sent to the children of Israel to remind them of God’s principles for life, living and worship. The children of Israel were not a nation who did not know God. They had just become “rebellious”. They had turned their back on God and instead embraced many of the ways of the world. Ezekiel went to great lengths to get their attention. For over two decades he wrote, preached, warned and pleaded with God’s people to return to His principles.
In reading Ezekiel one must not be so removed from him that he is thought of as a fictional character with an irrelevant message. To embrace the overwhelming genuine concern he exudes one must be daily adorned in their spiritual armor and open their spiritual ears and listen attentively. Ezekiel tremendously, ferociously and vehemently cries out as he prolifically expounds God’s Truth. Since he had been labeled as being “strange” the people were quite reluctant to listen.
Ezekiel wanted the people to return to God. We too should want the people to return to God!
Embracing the Fruit of the Spirit within your marriage “Self- Control” Part 9 No. 3 of 3
January 2, 2020 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Marriage & Relationships
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!
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
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
Getting Your Joy Back Part 4
February 6, 2019 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral & Emotional Health, Uncategorized
HALLLELLLUJAH THANK YOU JESUS!!!
You can call upon Jesus 24/7. So if you are going through; You have to learn how to TRUST GOD! Life may try to take everything that you have, but TRUST GOD! It may try to take your health or take the health of your love ones, But TRUST GOD! It may attempt to divide your home, your marriage and your family and to uproot your children, But TRUST GOD! The enemy may even try to take your life, But TRUST GOD! Always remember who you are in the Lord!
The prince of the power of the air can not do anymore than God allows. Therefore keep your focus upon God. Know this; when you are God’s child know that when its all said and done in the end WE WIN! God did not say it will all be good. He did say “ALL things will work together for the GOOD when you LOVE HIM and are called according to HIS purpose.” So come what may; PRAISE GOD & SAY HALLLELLLUJAH ANYHOW!
Spiritual warfare is all around us
Think about this the enemy wants to steal your JOY! He will use any and everything to attempt to do just that. He wants to pull you down emotionally, physically and to lower your standard of living by tempting you to compromise your principles. Praise be to God, for He has given us His Holy Spirit, His Comforter. Our God given principles are some of your most invaluable possessions. They are bestowed to help discipline and empower you. Through our faith and trust in the Lord we gain access. We never become the power but realize that “Greater is He that is within us than he that is in the world. “
While going through you must open your spiritual eyes and ears. Quite often some of those you have helped will often get selective amnesia. I often wondered where were all those people that Jesus helped when they crucified Him. God always knows. There truly is much spiritual warfare about us. Our world and our country is in trouble. But our weapons are not carnal. Stay prepared. Is your armor together? Our true help is only in the Lord.
The Peace of God can sustain you
Know God intimately! Pray daily for His Precious Holy Spirit to fill you with His presence. Then whatever comes your way as it gets too heavy give it to the Lord. Do all you can do, as you give it to Him and then simply STAND! TRUST GOD! Regardless of what happens the enemy can’t take your JOY unless you let him. He will try so do not give it to him.
Allow the peace of God to sustain you. When you know God intimately His Word becomes woven and deeply embedded into the fabric of who you are. “Your WORD have I hidden in my heart so I may not sin against YOU.” Trust His Holy Spirit who will bring it to your remembrance.
If you have let the shade be pulled down over your life and the enemy has inserted, regrets, depression, anxiety, stress, eating disorders, compulsive behaviors, addictions, manipulation, and anything else in as your daily companions know that they are not of God. Begin to let it or them go! Reach to the Lord. Call upon Him who is always near. When needed or necessary You can also pray with someone who is on one accord. You have the authority within you through Christ Jesus so use it and shift your focus to the Lord. You will be strengthened as you discipline yourself to praise and daily thank God!
Practice makes Permanent!
God is the Ultimate Father, readily accessible to ALL who call upon Him sincerely and believe and accept His Son Jesus Christ into their heart as their Lord and Savior. Continue or begin implementing His principles within your daily life. Practice makes permanent! His gift to you is His Precious Holy Spirit that nurtures us and is His GIFT that assures us of Eternal life with Him! No one or nobody can change that.
God teaches us the importance of faithfulness and loyalty! It is paramount to always take your commitment to the Lord seriously. There is nothing more important in life. “Whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord.”
Don’t try to be like someone else. Be the best you, you can be! Everywhere you are God is. So if you have let your JOY go because…. Take it back. “Though you have not seen Him, you LOVE Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious JOY, for you are receiving the goal of your FAITH, the SALVATION of your souls.” I PETER
God is Omnipresent
You can always and forever count on God knowing He is everywhere you are. The question is do you invite His presence? Did you know that it really is “in Him we move and live and have our being.” To better understand this it is important to daily begin building your very own ongoing personal relationship with Him. Just think when something happens; don’t you prefer to talk to someone you know? So don’t just wait until something happens. God is not far away. He in fact is so close that you do not even have to say a Word for Him to hear you. He even knows your every thought! Our little finite minds cannot really conceive of GOD and all His fullness. “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” But through FAITH we can develop an ever growing TRUST in HIM.
How often do you actually read God’s Word during the week?
June 11, 2018 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living
~ WE ALL ARE ACCOUNTABLE TO GOD! ~
HOW OFTEN DO YOU ACTUALLY READ GOD’S WORD DURING THE WEEK?
The chaos that is ALL about us in this world it NOT because of GOD!
Many of the ways of this world have nested themselves within the midst of GOD’S CHURCH! In the Spiritual Realm; “THE WHEAT & the tares are growing together.” PRAY FOR DISCERNMENT!
HEAVENLY FATHER, “YOUR KINGDOM COME, YOUR WILL BE DONE on earth as it IS IN HEAVEN. GIVE US TODAY Our DAILY BREAD…”
~ LATTER DAY MINISTRY! ~
GOD NEVER INTENDED for HIS CHURCH to become a mere; “social club.”
Unless Your Pastor is Your husband He should not come before Your husband. Your husband is NOT Your servant… Your commitment should be to Your marriage vows you made together to the Lord! Your marriage will be or become what You make it! When you honor your marriage vows you honor God and one another.
It is important to consistently spend time with the Lord in His Word. He has provided a wealth of godly wisdom to help us live well balanced lives. Marriage is the first institution that the Lord made. God created mankind so that our lives would center around Him.
GOD DESERVES THE PREEMINENCE
ALLOW GOD HIS PLACE WITHIN YOUR MARRIAGE!
“Marriage is honorable in the eyes of the Lord… Many Marriages are dissolving because your home life has become secondary.
“Therefore as the CHURCH IS SUBJECT unto CHRIST, so let the wives be to their OWN husbands in everything.” EPHESIANS 5
Your children should not be left to fend for themselves or left in the hands of just anyone… “TRAIN UP a child in the WAY he SHOULD GO and when he is old he WILL NOT depart…. Proverbs 22
Single women Your Pastor is NOT your husband. He is to Spiritually Feed You & encourage You through the WORD of GOD. He too should live by and uphold the principles of GOD and embrace the TRUTH of HIS WORD.
ALLOW THE LORD HIS PLACE WITHIN YOUR SINGLE LIFE!
~ THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD! ~
Men & Women of GOD Seek the Will of the Lord in whatever You are doing… We are called to preach, teach, proclaim and live out the Word of God within our daily lives. The call upon our lives is from GOD not man. The Lord will never lead any of us to do anything that goes against His Word. REMEMBER; the Sheep belong to the Lord! & We TOO are ALL HIS SHEEP!
It is not always easy carrying out the Will of the Lord. Take The Prophet Jeremiah for example. He was sent to speak a gloomy message to the people. He is known as God’s Reluctant Messenger. He is also known as the “Weeping Prophet.” He warned the officials and clergy for over (40) forty years. They hated his messages from God and plotted against him. Many overlook the fact that it wasn’t always pleasant words sent from the Lord. God’s Word is not always comforting or encouraging. But it s always warranted and necessary to make us spiritually strong. It is the necessary Spiritual Food for our mind, body and soul. Jeremiah was charged to remind the people of the need to REPENT! He was sent to a nation that was going to be destroyed by war.
Israel forsook God. Three hundred years before the Israelites had already been split into (2) two separate countries. They had continually laid aside the Word of God and followed after the ways and traditions of man. Many times Jeremiah stood alone faithfully delivering the messages from God. They treated him terribly and even burned his writings. He received much persecution. Although he was unwelcomed he remained obedient to the Lord.
Allow God His place during worship! He knows if you are genuine for God is Omniscient. We should always want our worship to be pleasing in the sight of the Lord! “True Worshippers worship Him in Spirit and in Truth!”
Jeremiah stood at the gate of the Lord’s House and said;
“Hear the WORD of the LORD, all you people of Judah who come through these gates to worship the Lord. This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel says: Reform your ways and actions, and I will let you live in his place Do not trust in deceptive words and say; “This is the Temple of the Lord, The Temple of the Lord, the Temple of the Lord!” If you really change your ways and your actions and deal with each other justly, if you do not oppress the alien, the fatherless or the widow and DO NOT shed innocent blood in this place, and if you DO NOT follow after other gods to your own harm, then I will let you live in this place…” Jeremiah 7
The Lord goes on to tell them that they have become a den of robbers and that He is watching! Despite the litany of prophesies and warnings they still disobeyed. For over (50) fifty chapters the Book of Jeremiah hammers away at the guilt of Israel. Their disobedience eventually led to destruction and captivity. It behooves us to seek the Will & Way of the Lord in these “Latter Days” when so much is going on throughout the world that goes against what the Lord has said. Many countries are suffering including the United States of America. Many of the ways of the world have also nested themselves in the midst of the Lord’s Church. We who are called must continue to speak forth the Truth of God’s Word whether, if it is received or not. God has provided a plethora of ways and resources for us to do so.
God always leaves a remnant of His people. We are to “be in the world but not of the world…” We are to daily embrace the Truth of His word and live out His principles within our daily lives. God keeps His promises and will continue to grow us in His grace, wisdom and knowledge as we strive and live to please Him. There is nothing more important in life. Life itself consists because of God! ” For it is in HIM we live and move and have our being…”
Have you read God’s Word this week? It is never too late to start today. God’s Word is like no other. It is ALIVE!
In Jeremiah God promised the people that at some point He would give them Pastors after His own heart. If you read Jeremiah closely you will see that this never happened during the time of the Prophet Jeremiah. Idolatry was prevalent and many false lying prophets were plentiful. There was even wickedness in the Temple. “The prophets follow an evil course and use their power unjustly, Both prophet an priest are godless even in the temple I find their wickedness…” Jeremiah 23 There were also many droughts and famines throughout the land.
The majority of the people did not have access to the Word as we do now. Most of them received the Word through the prophets and the priests. Today we are without excuse. God’s Word is readily available.
Today in this 21st century we have easy access to the Word of God. It is important to spend time with the Lord in His Word and encourage others to do so as well. This is how we make a difference. Then, when or wherever we gather together for worship we will be well prepared to worship the Lord in the way He so rightly deserves. God is omnipresent and always present and available to help us in any and every situation wherever we are. He does not force His way into our lives. God really wants to be a part of every area of our lives. I assure you He can and will make all the difference in the world like no other.
In the Book of Hebrews God shows us that He changes His people from the inside out. He places his laws within their hearts. He comes to abide within us as we accept Christ Jesus as Savior and Lord. He gives us His precious Holy Spirit His Comforter, who is then able to lead and guide us to ALL TRUTH! Praise God & Thank You Lord!
Truly the Lord is My Shepherd!
“Woe be unto the Pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of MY PASTURE! Said the LORD!” JEREMIAH 23
KNOW & EMBRACE THE TRUTH OF GOD’S WORD! SPEND TIME DAILY WITH THE LORD IN HIS WORD. “WALK IN THE LIGHT” & DAILY PUT ON THE ARMOR OF THE LORD. THIS IS HOW YOU PREPARE YOURSELF FOR THE COMING OF THE LORD. WE ARE TO LIVE EACH DAY AS THOUGH WE EXPECT HIM AT ANY TIME.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU ACTUALLY READ GOD’S WORD DURING THE WEEK?
Amazon FREE Book Giveaway 2/13/18- How Do I Love Thee Food For Thought Before You Say I DO
January 19, 2018 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Uncategorized
How Compatible are We? Ready for Intimacy? Commitment? The Marriage Bed? In-laws or Out-laws?
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SEXUAL Problems For Christians Part 2
December 28, 2016 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral & Emotional Health
Part 2
Is A Great Marriage Still Viable?
The answer is YES!!!
Today some have opted out of the marriage. Their spouse has not been faithful and or has not or will not repent. Divorce is also sought because both or one spouse was not honest when they married. It is not their intention to work together for a mutually satisfying marriage. Sad put true some marry to get what they can get and leave. Quite often they want what they want when they want it. Their first priority is what they want rather than what is best for the marriage. This can leave the injured spouse in a state of flux. He or she will often overcompensate by continually giving into to their endless wants even to the point of financial despair. This should not be!
What about the children?
Parental disharmony also causes additional conflict within the children. They pick up the vibe between their parents. The children wants become excessive to compensate for their void. Some children will begin to lie and sometime emotionally withdraw. Unconsciously they feel that their well being is a secondary priority. Children usually prefer that their parents stay together. They too begin to act out. The parent who is most concerned must or should then take responsibility and address the needs of the children. Since you are hurting, this is not easy but necessary. It important to instill within your children healthy boundaries.
All too often one or both parents will often over indulge the child or children. They begin to compete for the child’s attention. Rather than discipline they will allow the child to become an extension of them. The child then becomes their support. Children vary in their ability to mature. Some are more resilient than others. Children should not be encouraged to become companions for their parents. Nor should they be ignored. They should always be nurtured in a healthy way that further establishes the parent child relationship.
You have a responsibility to your children.
As they get older the children will begin to better understand. Their parents were not able to resolve their conflict which resulted in divorce. Right now in this 21st century we have a generation of children that are confused about “Marriage God’s Way” more so than ever before! Although it did not work for you the first, second or even third time; it is important to let them know that God has ordained marriage as the proper relationship for sex. Let them know there is still hope for them for a successful marriage.
Our current and future generations of teenagers have fewer and fewer positive moral traditional role models. Too many fractured marriages and families. This also can cause some of them to question their own sexuality. They wonder if marriage is still even viable? They are all to often seduced to seek alternative ways to satisfy their sometimes overwhelming desire to appease raging hormones… They are often pulled into experimenting with same sex relationships with their peers. Keep the lines of communication open with your children. There are some who wait in the wings to support alternative lifestyles… This can cause them to become confused sexually or possibly even have a tendency towards bi sexual or promiscuity? This does not have to be!
As a believer you have a responsibility to explain to them what God says about marriage. If you don’t the world is waiting to teach them otherwise.
Freely share with them what God says about sex in a non threatening way. Keeping in mind you are not trying to incite rebellion. You want them to learn self-control. You want them to realize that there are consequences for our actions. God allows us the freedom to choose. Love is patient so if you are over anxious take some time and chill out. Exercise patience when you are talking to your children. You more than anyone should be willing to model good behavior to them.
You can help prevent them from getting out of control. You can lessen the frequency of this occurring by teaching them the importance of respecting their own bodies. Yes, there is always an exception to the rule. Raising children properly takes a lot of patience, time and sacrifice. If you have not done this get busy now. Letting them know that they are valuable and they have the right to say “NO” to anyone. But most important that they can honor God in their body and its never too late to start!
Yes! A favorable future marriage is still viable…
There is much spiritual warfare that attempts to draw our teens away from God’s natural design for sex. This is a vulnerable stage of life for them. Peer pressure is already a constant factor in their lives… How their bodies are beginning to develop is a concern as well. Many of them will not say how they really feel. They will tell you what they think you want to hear. They often will seek unwise advice. Therefore they can be easily led down an ambivalent primrose path that further adds to this already complicated period of growth and development! Instead abstinence and discipline should be encouraged!
Let them know that God is Omnipresent!
Think about this for a moment. Did you know that if no one practiced sex outside of marriage there would be no one to cheat with? Fewer broken homes! Fewer STD’S! Fewer Abortions! Fewer marriages ending in divorces where people are unable to reconcile their differences. In this day and age it is hard to hard to imagine! God has given us His Word to protect us! He has even told us that there is “no temptation common to man that He has not prepared a way of escape.”
A committed married monogamous relationship is the only way that God honors a sexual relationship! He has provided and ordained marriage. You see God has designed marriage as the only proper way a man and woman can fulfill their natural sexual desires. He is not the designer of any other method. If you have been taught or thought otherwise you are being fooled. I don’t care what Mommy, Daddy, Grandpa, Grandma, Aunt, Uncle, Friend, Doctor, Minister, Pastor. Bishop, Apostle or Foe has said there are consequences! You see it is time out for living in the dark. Especially if you have confessed to be a Christian! It is time to stand up and speak out for what God has said is right.
We must speak the TRUTH in LOVE! Many are so confused about what LOVE really means. They often misunderstand you when you try to LOVE them for real! Loving someone is NOT making them feel comfortable in sin. Nor is it forcing yourself into their personal space. Pray for discernment. Part of LOVE is correction with patience. Sometimes we have to simply “step back.” But always PRAY! This is why we ALL so need the LORD! “GOD IS LOVE!” God is always available to help us properly express HIS LOVE!
Sharing the WORD of GOD IS LOVING PEOPLE! So don’t water it down. Even if they don’t like it. God is quite clear about proper and improper sex! Try reading Roman 1 for starters. Let them take up any objections with the Lord. At some point if they are really seeking TRUTH they will at some point understand. They will eventually see it is because you LOVE them you want them to know what God says.
True ministry is speaking forth and living out loud the Word of God.
Let’s really HELP this next generation; these teenagers of this 21st century “where anything goes.” Start by giving them better moral role models! Let’s open up the lines of communication so they can validate their feelings. They can learn to shift through their feelings and make better choices. Make yourself available to your children. Give them a phone and tell them “to call you anytime they NEED you” HELP them so they do not feel that they have to give parts of themselves away in order to be accepted. If necessary also tell them to REPENT! Let them know that they have the right to say NO to anyone who tries to take advantage of them. Give them more safe “hugs” & quick kisses on their foreheads. (some of them feel too big for kisses)
Give them respect and teach them how to be respectable and to demand respect as well. Remember they watch what we say and do. Make a commitment to be loyal and faithful in your own marriage. Give them better examples and less criticism and more compassion and understanding. Don’t encourage them to be sensual. Lovingly tell them when and if they are wrong. But be willing to admit when you are wrong as well. Less bickering and fighting and more constructive ways to resolve conflict such as powerful, loving biblical instructions. Just think if it is hard for adults, it is even harder for teenagers… Lead them by example.
