THANKSGIVING Means Much More Than Turkey!

Did you know that Thanksgiving means so much more than Turkey & Dressing? Yes, it is a time to come together and enjoy a plenteous wonderful meal that has been prepared with lots of love. Yes, it is a time to come to gather together with family, friends and loved ones and give thanks. Yes, you can even remember that Christopher Columbus an Italian Explorer discovered the Indians in America. It has been recorded in history that he actually sailed across the Atlantic in order to find spices in India.

What Christopher Columbus Really Discovered!

He sailed for King Ferdinand II and Queen Esabella of Spain. He had a fleet of three ships, the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria with an approximate crew of 90 from Palos Spain. He landed in a new world of the Americas. Many do not realize that Columbus initially had a twofold mission. He wanted to open trade routes and bring in the Word of Jesus Christ. He was named the “Admiral of the Sea” by the King and Queen. He is known for the man that discovered America. That is only partially true? Yes, he too did get sidetracked. He allowed himself to get distracted and became very cruel at times to the natives. He did not keep his original commitments.

 

However, if the Truth be told he actually discovered the Indians that were already living in America quite contently!

 

A Nation of Thriving Indians

As the settlers trickled in the atmosphere began to change. It has been said that a group of religious radicals called “Puritans” were pilgrim settlers that had been driven out of England. In 1614, explorers landed in an area called Massachusetts Bay. They actually eventually settled and built a colony called “Plymouth Plantation.” They were actually taught by Squanto the Indian how to survive by using corn in a plethora of ways for food. They were taught how to fish and use the herbs of the land by the natives.

 

Plymouth was surrounded by the Wampanoag who were a large thriving  Nation of Indians. Eventually Squanto negotiated a peace treaty between the Indians and the settlers. They lived peaceable for about fifteen (15) years. It was at the end of the first year that a large feast was given. Squanto, their friends and the Indians were honored. The feast lasted for over three (3) days. It is here originates why we here in America celebrate Thanksgiving. How all too soon all was forgotten. The good that the Natives did for the foreigners became overshadowed throughout history.

 

As word got back to England of the prosperity and peacefulness that they were experiencing in Plymouth, many people came by the boatloads. As there numbers increased the tension increased. There began to be a debate as to who possessed the land? The original agreement was cast aside. Since there were no fences, boundaries, land markers etc. (fences etc. are customs that originated in England.) The incoming settlers declared the land as “public domain.” This meant it was their’s for the taking. With absolutely no respect for the current treaty between the Indians and the Puritans.

 

The newcomers began to seize and destroy the existing peace that had been established. All for the sake of becoming prosperous. Rather than share in the prosperity that had already been established they sought to destroy it and become prosperous themselves. They exiled the current Puritans and with scriptures in tow they overthrew the existing peace agreement. The used the scriptures to manipulate rather than to bring peace. Then along with the use of British soldiers they captured and made many of the Indians slaves… The rest is history…

 

 

Christopher Columbus discovered that there were  Indians already living in America!

I said this all to shed some light on a story that as a child I was taught in grammar school  that in 1492, Christopher Columbus discovered America? I always thought this odd, because it was evident that the Indians were already there? In fact if you search the chronicles of history you will find that they confirm he actually, really discovered the Indians that were already there. We in America originally began to celebrate Thanksgiving because of the peace treaty that was made between the Puritans and the Indians. Who collectively managed to come together and celebrate their treaty and new life together.

 

If you are a Christian you should know that spiritually speaking Thanksgiving goes even further back than that! The scriptures are full of passages to tell us how we should work, love, live and be thankful for all that God has given us. He even gave us His only Begotten Son Christ Jesus that we might have a right to the tree of life. But just like the story of Christopher Columbus what was originally intended all too often gets set aside. The principles of this story has constantly repeated itself throughout history in so many ways. All too often what really happened is set aside and replaced with the partial truth.

 

 

God wants us to know the Truth of His Word.

 

Life for the believer or child of God really should go much deeper. But all too often one settles for what is partially true. All too often the original agreement is forgotten and laid aside. This is why it is so very important to know the Lord and His Word for yourself. Ephesians 4 tells us; “not be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine, to the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the Head-Christ from whom the whole body joined and knit together by what every joint supplies…”

 

Knowing the Word of God has its spiritual benefits. When truly taken to heart it motivates, grows and spiritually matures you, convicts, and encourages you to do and want to do things His way. Neither do you just settle for the partial truth or believe just any and everything. But you seek, desire to live and study His Word, apply the principles therein and live your life to please Him! To give thanks to Him each and every day!

 

 

God’s ways are far better.

 

But all too often they are laid aside. Many are given and accept a partial story. Many are pressured by the need to be accepted by the majority, to suppress the truth, as well as their desire to dominate and control and have things done their way. One must earnestly seek the truth rather than settle for a partial truth or to be misled by how things appear. As God’s children we are encouraged to “seek Him first and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.”  Matthew 6  What things? Whatever things you need to fulfill His plan in your life will be provided.   You however must diligently seek His will & His way…

 

God did not say that this would be easy. Yet, we can and should be thankful for each and every day. You know regardless of what happens that He has everything under His control. Know that He is a Spirit of Truth! We can be thankful because you know without a doubt that all of HIS WORD is true! We then can truly celebrate Thanksgiving knowing that His Son Jesus Christ sacrificed His life for us. That we have been redeemed and purchased and belong to Him. That we are saved completely by His marvelous grace alone!  We cannot SAVE ourselves. Without CHRIST JESUS there is no SALVATION! The TRUTH really does set you free! When you know that regardless of how things appear God always knows who belongs to HIM!

 

As I said earlier as a child I was taught that Christopher Columbus discovered America. But as I matured, I inquired and studied independently as well. I found out that that was only partially true. It was in fact the Indians he discovered. (For additional information read the history about the Wampanoag Indians.) The Truth will always stand the test of time. As God’s ever growing child I know that God has so much more for us in store. Keep in mind in the eyes of GOD we are all children.  We must be willing to humble ourselves to Him. He does not want us to settle for less than the Truth. He wants us to study His Word and rightly apply the principles therein. He has promised to bring what has happened in the dark out to the Light.

 

Jesus Christ is the Light of the world.

 

God’s Word will be a “Lamp unto your feet and a Light unto your path…” Do not be sidetracked or derailed by what you hear or how things appear. Know the Truth and His Word for yourself! Embrace it within your heart and  never allow no one make you doubt God or His Word.   If you don’t understand parts of HIS WORD ask Him to open your heart and keep studying and praying…  Carefully seek out a Bible based  place of worship.

 

Let it be your desire and goal to want the things in life that the Lord wants you to have. To know what God wants you to know, to commit to His will and way and trust He will lead, guide and protect you.

 

Know that nothing that happens in life gets by God. This is why He says in the first Psalms “Do not walk in the council of ungodly people. Do not stand in the way of sinners. Nor sit in the seat of the scornful. But to delight yourself in the law of the Lord and in HIS Word meditate day and night.” As a child of God you can rest assured as said in Romans; that in His time He will work out everything for your good, if you love Him and are called according to His purpose.” Too often what is right is laid aside. Man made institutions waiver. Since we live in an ever changing world your Faith and Trust must be in Him!

 

 

All God’s Word is true. It is His desire that we grow in the grace and knowledge of His Word. To know Jesus Christ and the power of His Resurrection! That we are to be steadfast unmovable always abounding in His Word. Not only giving thanks when we eat or on Thanksgiving or Sunday. But each and everyday of our lives. We are told in Colossians 4; “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving, meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the world, to speak the mystery of Christ, which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak, Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one…”

 

GOD can and will make a way out of no way!

 

GOD truly is the DAY MAKER! Who else can make a DAY? HE is also the WAY MAKER! For HE can make a WAY out of no way. True ministry goes beyond the walls! In these “LATTER DAYS” there is much going on, in this world and in and about GOD’S CHURCH which is NOT of HIM! PLEASE take some time with the LORD in HIS WORD and really get to know HIM for Yourself! CHRIST JESUS came so we could live full well balanced healthy spiritually enriched lives. His plan of salvation has been offered to all. Those who truly accept Him will believe in their heart and accept Him as Lord of their life.

 

We are to worship and praise the Lord each and every day. We are to live a life of worship. This is why we should live lives of thankfulness. To focus and set our eyes on Him regardless of what happens, has happened or will happen. To give thanks and know that He will give us today our daily bread…… Psalms 107 says; Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so…” Not only on Thanksgiving but each and every day. Yes it is a good thing to celebrate and give thanks!

 

If you don’t know the Lord know is a great time to get to know Him. “Draw nigh to God an He will draw nigh to you.” Spend some time each day with the lord in His Word! 

 

IT REALLY IS IMPORTANT TO WELCOME THE LORD IN ALL AREAS & ASPECTS OF YOUR LIFE.

Everyday should be a day of Thanksgiving & Worship! Know that Thanksgiving really does mean so much more than Turkey & Dressing. As a Believer whenever or wherever You worship the Lord be thankful & sincere. You should “WORSHIP THE LORD IN SPIRIT & IN TRUTH!” We who are the Lord’s must do as Psalm 100 tells us to enter into “His gates with thanksgiving. And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting. And His Truth endures to all generations. 

 

 

” LIVE OUT LOUD THE GOSPEL! “

 

God wants us as believing  Christians to;  “Church Be God’s Church Everyday & Everywhere! ” 

There are  a lot of ways to worship and praise the Lord! But always remember that the true worshippers must: ” WORSHIP  GOD in SPIRIT and in TRUTH! ” 

Yes, Celebrate and Enjoy your family, friends and love ones on Thanksgiving but most importantly be safe, wise and forever Thankful & Grateful to the Lord…

Live Everyday; To God be the Glory & Bless His Holy Name!

Where Does God Dwell?

GOD Dwells In The Hearts of HIS People!

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

 

Journey to Athens Greece

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Where the SPIRIT of the LORD is there IS LIBERTY!

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

 

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

 

GOD LIVES IN the HEARTS of HIS PEOPLE

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Journey to Ephesus

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

Journey to “MARS HILL!”

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

HIS TRUTH IS MARCHING ON…

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

CHRISTIANITY  is a Daily Lifestyle to be lived unto GOD!

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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