Healing Begins In Your Heart and In Your Home! Part 1
July 20, 2018 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral & Emotional Health
~ Healing Begins in Your Heart and Your Home! ~
Part 1
CHRIST CAME TO SET US FREE!
“It is for FREEDOM that CHRIST has set us FREE. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened with a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5
Seven IF’s to healing your heart and home!
IF You really want healing to begin seek the LORD above ALL else. You cannot change what has been, but YOU CAN start afresh TODAY.
IF You want to start healing this next generation think about what you do and say in front of them. Apologize for what has been and help them get to a better place. It’s never too late to start anew.
IF You raised, or are raising your children by yelling, screaming and cussing at them guess what? They will probably do the same thing. They will seek to dominate and control others…
IF You hit them upside the head and slap them in the mouth; guess what? You are instilling anger within them. You are making them a slave to sin. This is not all appropriate or necessary. It is more a reflection of your lack of self-control than their behavior.
IF You are beating them to death; guess what? You are really, actually beating the natural life out of them. You are replacing it will stress, anger, hate, insecurity, and rage. You are actually shutting them down and causing them to become violent and pushing them towards seeking physical hitting and abusive ways that create even more inner conflict. This further serves to give them poor coping skills which makes them feel unloved. It sets up an inner unhealthy emotional environment that welcomes addictions and very little self control. To name a few; Addiction, Alcohol, Drugs, Overeating, Undereating, Promiscuity, Homosexuality, Adultery, Fornication, Unfaithfulness, Stealing, Lying, Fighting and Violence. These are just a few of the results… Their way of being is now obsessing and learning to dominate and control rather than exercise Self-Control and become FREE!
IF You are calling them out of their name, talking bad about everyone else and constantly putting them down: guess what? You are helping them have an identity crisis as well as low self-esteem… They will see themselves as you express yourself to them. They will have poor opinions of others as well. They also will feel lesser than, rather than equal too. Children are NOT your slaves or possessions and should not be treated as so regardless of race, creed or color… Teach them respect by being respectful.
The Good News is;
You can become FREE! You can begin to heal your heart and home!
IF You have done none of the above; guess what? There is still room for self improvement. As long as the Lord has us on this side of heaven it is to grow in His Grace. God really can help you build and establish a healthy, loving, safe, balanced as well as fun secure living environment. A place for all to grow and flourish. But, you just have to be willing to put in the time and effort. Always invite the presence of the Lord all around you. Your home enviroment will be whatever you make it. When you are truly willing to make some changes there are unlimited possibilities… Get busy!
Christ Jesus overcame, sin, death and the grave so we could live better well-rounded lives. True success is inclusive of obeying God and daily embracing His principles.
Know God and His Word for yourself. God really does have a purpose and plan for each of our lives. But it is your choice to daily seek him above the ways of this world. “DRAW NIGH TO GOD AND HE WILL DRAW NIGH TO YOU!”
There IS ALWAYS HOPE in the LORD! Together you can move forward towards healing. You really can be healed, delivered, restored and set FREE!
“Greater IS HE that is within you than he that is in the world…”
http://alpha7.org/2018/07/20/healing-begins-in-your-heart-and-your-home-part-2/
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
January 15, 2018 by Minister/Elder DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Society & Culture
One of the most Honorable and Praiseworthy qualities admired most about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was that He was a Diplomatic Ambassador of Peace! Dr. King was a PEACEMAKER, and a strong man of FAITH, INTEGRITY, JUSTICE, BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES and VALUES! In His avid quest to fight for equality and justice he gallantly embraced non violence. Dr. Martin Luther King was a Baptist Minister born at noon in his family home on January 15,1929 in Atlanta Georgia. How ironic his Queen Anne style home was in what is known as the magnificent “Sweet Auburn District.” He was an avid and dedicated prominent leader in the “Civil Rights” movement! However it was because of his gallant efforts he was violently assassinated in 1968 at the age of 39.
DR. KING WAS A TRUE DRUM MAJOR OF PEACE!
Dr. King fought long and tenaciously for the equal rights for people of Color. He wanted the same rights that were extended to Whites extended to all people! He was especially instrumental in ending legal segregation that plagued African Americans in the South. Dr. King led many powerful and peaceful demonstrations. For his many efforts he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
Dr. King came from a ancestral lineage of Baptist Ministers. His father and his grandfather were ministers. They both became pastor’s in succession of the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. He was raised in a very comfortable, loving and stable middle class Christian home. He was a brilliant, well educated and gifted Man of God. He excelled prolifically in his studies and skipped both the (9th) ninth and (12th) twelfth grades. He was admitted to the impressive Morehouse College at the early age of only (15) fifteen years old.
Dr. King was aware from a very early age of the obvious discrimination that existed against Colored people now often referred to as African Americans. There is an interesting little story of when he was only 6 years of age, his white playmate told him that they could no longer play together since they were now going to segregated schools. Before King’s going off to college, he first went to work on a tobacco farm in Connecticut. It is here he realized that the same discrimination was not apparent that he had experience in the South. He took note of the many activities that both whites, blacks, reds, yellows, browns and all colors shared. Here basically all Colors participated together. They went to worship together they could eat out publicly together, it was an eye opening experience.
Admirable Man of GOD
King enthusiastically entered Morehouse College and initially his desire was to study medicine and law. However he became impressed with the marvelous oratorical skills of Benjamin Mays. He was an activist, was educated and an intelligent man who was pursuing equal rights and racial equality. Mays really made and indelible impression upon his father, Martin Luther Sr. The young budding Martin remained impressed as well.
Martin Luther King Jr. graduated from Morehouse College in 1948. King then attended Crozer Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania. King early on had a charismatic personality and was elected student body president of the predominately white student body. He eventually earned his Bachelor’s of Divinity in 1951. King then went on to Boston University, it is here he earned a Doctorate. Here in Boston is where he met the love of his life Coretta Scott. She was studying at the New England conservatory of Music. They married in a beautiful lawn ceremony at her family’s home. The ceremony was officiated by Rev. Martin Luther King Sr., his father in 1953. From their beautiful union was born 4 wonderful children.
Of the many protests that was led by King it was the infamous Montgomery Alabama bus boycott that received acclaimed nationwide attention. Here the lovely intelligent Rosa Parks a hard working gentle natured Black woman who was tired after a long honest day at work, as an excellent and skilled seamstress decided not to give up her seat to a white passenger. Mrs. Parks was in turn arrested under the segregation laws. A concerted effort was made by the Activists they strategically planned and implemented a strategic and successful peaceful bus boycott. No doubt this was a great injustice that was made towards Rosa Parks. There were numerous marches and “sit ins”…
I have seen the “Promised Land!”
It was on his way to support a group of sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated! Senator Edward Kennedy chartered a plane to bring Dr. King’s body home to Atlanta. At least (30) thirty buses and (100) one hundred planes were used to bring mourners for his “Homegoing Celebration.” Sympathy was generously poured out from all over the world! The night before King had delivered a most prophetic message. He made this statement: “I’ve seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight that we, as a people, will get to the promised land.” It was the very next day while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Hotel, he was brutally killed by a sniper’s bullet!
King’s loyal supporters throughout America were quite upset and 100+ riots ensued in various cities across the country! After much uproar and ongoing media attention; his white assassin James Earl Ray pleaded guilty. He was then convicted and sentenced to 99 years in prison. He later attempted to recant his confession of guilt and said that he was coerced by his attorneys. Ray dogmatically held to the stance it was a conspiracy! Dr. King’s family came to his aid and support of Ray’s defense and embraced him. Ray died before he could be acquitted. Coretta Scott King, Dr. King’s widow made this statement upon Ray’s death; “America will never have the benefit of Mr. Ray’s trial, which would have produced new revelations about the assassination…as well as establish the facts concerning Mr. Ray’s innocence.”
Dr. King’s legacy lives on…
Dr. Martin Luther King has been compared and contrasted to some of the greatest! To name a few; George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. The fact remains that he was martyred has further served to keep his memory alive. His legacy lives on in the hearts of many as well as in the history of America’s historical corridors and the world at large. His legacy has a life of its own!
It was after his death that he was accredited with an overwhelming international status. There are roads, highways, buildings, schools and institutions named in his honor throughout the United States. In 1986 he was honored with a national Holiday celebrated on the 3rd Monday in January. In 1991 the Lorraine Hotel where he was assassinated became a Museum. In London they have a sculpture of him over the door to the west front at West Minister Abbey in his honor. Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” oratorical famous speech is well remembered and often quoted by many universally.
Infamous excerpt from Dr. King’s speech: “And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God’s children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, “Free at last! free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!”
Dr. King was a wonderful inspiring Man of God whose voice in the midst of the prevalent and tumultuous prejudice harnessing America opened the pathway to more equality for all colors! His eloquence, charismatic style, self sacrificing, courageous and arduous commitment will forever be ingrained in the chronicles of America’s History as well as the hearts of many!
Dr. King was kept under surveillance
Dr. King lived under the microscope of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (F.B.I. ) the ongoing surveillance was spearheaded under J. Edgar Hoover. Many unfounded allegations were made to attempt to undermine his credibility. But none of them could serve to tarnish his incredible, impeccable, accomplishments as a committed Man of God and strong ardent peaceful contributions as a Civil Rights Activist. Nor his infamous merited accomplishment of receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo Norway! Upon His acceptance he stated “I accept this award today with an abiding faith in America and an audacious faith in the future of mankind,” said King in his acceptance speech. “I refuse to accept the idea that the ‘isness’ of man’s present nature makes him morally incapable of reaching up for the eternal ‘oughtness’ that forever confronts him.
Indeed there is so much more that could be said about this dedicated Man of God; Dr. Martin Luther King Jr… He made many gallant advances towards diminishing discrimination in a peaceful manner. Yet it still remains on many levels… Much of it continues to persist in the background. He no doubt encountered many injustices for the cause of Civil Rights. Few have been able to take up the baton as elegantly, intelligently and astutely as Dr. King.
EXCERPT; I HAVE A DREAM
There is more that persists today; Yet, I close here with another memorable excerpt from “ I Have A Dream!”
“I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.
I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.”
What does it mean to “Love!” ? Part 2
September 26, 2017 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living
True love is kind of like quality; you know it when you see it. “I love the Lord because he heard my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to my prayers.” Psalms 116 This is one of my favorite passages of scriptures. GOD IS REAL! We are saved by God’s grace. This is HIS GIFT to us.
We are living in some interesting times. The perilous days are definitely upon us. This generation has some extreme interesting influences and obstacles to wade through. There is a continual moral decline and much to undermine the validity of marriage God’s Way as well as family values. KNOW GOD’S WORD! There is much going on to encourage the masses to embrace “sexual inclusivity.” We are to embrace others but not to cosign any sin. This is not about hate but more about developing healthier spiritual boundaries.
GOD’S WORD IS TRUE!
LORD HELP US! GOD is clear in HIS WORD about marriage & sexual relationships. There is so much spiritual warfare to thwart you from traveling on the NARROW PATH, rather than onto the broad road that leads to destruction. Just about anything goes in the world and for some in God’s Church as well. Much carnality invited into worship. ” THE WHEAT and the tares are growing together.” We are to be “GOD’S CHURCH” EVERYDAY & EVERWHERE!
PRAY FOR DISCERNMENT!
TRULY GOD IS MORE THAN ABLE TO KEEP US!
It is important to keep in mind that our children do not belong to us. They belong to GOD. HE has entrusted us to properly care for and nurture them. It is important to give them wise godly counsel as they are growing up. It is important to instill within them good morals and values. It is important to walk the walk you talk about. This is what builds healthy family bonds.
No matter how well you have raised your children there are still many random influences. However, they will be able to hold onto their morals and values when they are grounded and rooted in the LORD! You should want them to be autonomous yet dependent upon the Lord for He is everywhere. Love does not desire to suffocate. Once they become adults they have a right to make their own decisions.
We as believers are all accountable to GOD for our actions. This is true whether you believe in Him or not. It is important to daily spend time with the Lord in His Word.
Realize that once your children become adults you may not always agree. When you have spent a lot of time with your children you should know their temperaments. You can discern when something is awry. Each person is so very different. Allow them the freedom and space to make their own decisions. As well as the freedom to experience the consequences for their decisions. Respect them as adults. But be firm and readily give good wise godly counsel. However, always remain prayerful for there is much divisive spiritual warfare. Giving them good balanced moral boundaries is one of the best things you can do. They will have to encounter people who are not believers and do not share the same morals.
Embracing self control and patience is very wise. Regularly spending time in the Word of God and embracing His principles will help you immensely. It is important to know that we will have to answer to the Lord for our actions and decisions…
GOD’S LOVE IS ETERNAL!
I am thankful that the LORD has SAVED my household. We never called our children out of their names nor cussed at them nor anyone else for that matter. They grew up knowing that God was the center of our lives. We are thankful for the awareness of God’s omnipresence within our lives… We are also thankful by the help of the Lord we raised our children in a home of love and peace. I realize that by God’s grace through eternity we each will live with the Lord at the appointed time. Life is about continually growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord. This also motivates me to stand for whatever is right.
Life is a precious GIFT from the Lord!
The purpose for life and living is to worship & praise GOD! He is the Creator and Maker of Heaven and earth. He is the Giver and Sustainer of life. God wants to be a part of every area of our lives. He does not force His way into our lives. He gives us all the freedom to choose how we want to live our lives. As you grow closer to the Lord you become more aware of what He expects. God promises to never leave nor forsake us.
This world was spoken into existence by His living WORD; CHRIST JESUS! Within in Word of God is a wealth of spiritual wisdom. God keeps His promises! You can rest assured that ultimately the Lord has everything under His control. Knowing that forever we will live together with the Lord through eternity gives me an unexplainable peace and security in the midst of a world full of turmoil. For this I am also eternally grateful!
We must better learn to exercise patience in our relationships with our family, friends, love ones, neighbors, co workers and yes strangers. When you allow someone to push your buttons to make you react; you are being controlled by remote. Learn to activate self control. Sometimes you might have to put distance between you and them. It is always good for all of us to seek ways to improve ourselves. Don’t compromise who you are and what you know to be right to be accepted by anyone. Know that the acceptance of GOD is more than enough!
Live before an audience of ONE!
There is no condemnation when we are walking in the Spirit! But whenever we allow the flesh to direct us we need to be mindful that sin wants to rule. It leaves more room for error to persist. This does not have to be. Therefore we should cry “Abba Father” for direction to remain on the Narrow Path. Readily “REPENT!” LORD YOU ARE AWESOME & “AWEWONDERFUL!”
Remember GOD IS OMNISICENT; HE IS ALL KNOWING! You do not have to go through the same things that others go through to understand them. JESUS CHRIST is MORE THAN ABLE in every situation. HE IS LORD! HE spoke mankind and this world into existence. When you are sincere, GOD will open up your understanding for understanding comes from HIM! However you must rely and trust upon Him to help you as you counsel with others. The Spirit of GOD is always willing to HELP us for GOD has not left us alone to fend for ourselves. Reject the things that are NOT of HIM! Thank You Lord for Your Holy Spirit Your Comforter! Your Holy Spirit can lead us to all TRUTH! This is why we all will forever need Christ Jesus!
Few people really know what it means to be loved. Keep in mind GOD’S definition of LOVE! People live in estranged relationships for years. This does not have to be. Households are literally filled with strangers. Sickness, anger, resentment and unresolved bitterness becomes the cohesive components to bind them together. Often they will try to impose this upon you. They do not necessarily want to resolve conflict but project their unhappiness upon you. They often seek ungodly counsel to reinforce their behavior rather than to confront the situation in truth.
Take the trash out often. Don’t spend a lot of time in the garbage of life.
Don’t allow anyone to mentally or physically abuse you. Put some distance between you and them until you are able to be safe in their presence. Don’t provoke someone to wrath as well. This puts you in harms way. Domesticate violence is serious. Don’t hurl insult upon insult until you demean a person to the point that they retaliate with unbridled anger.
Often when someone has been repeatedly abused they unconsciously fight to create a hostile living environment that they have grown accustomed to. This in itself has a power of its own. It can even pull someone into it who has not lived in hostility off their center. They respond as a caged animal and begin to resort to abusive behavior to survive in a foreign environment. God can truly help you to overcome anything but you must learn to submit to HIM. He can deliver you and help you respond differently. REPENT instead of repeat! The cycle of abuse needs to be broken not passed down to another generation.
This is why it is important to know God’s True Love. God is not the Author of confusion. Invite HIM into every area of your life and move towards making the necessary changes. Strive to become more aware of His Omnipresence. Make an altar of your heart wherever you are. Know that your Body is the Temple of the Living GOD! If you are a Christian your home is the first place that you should welcome the Spirit of the Lord. This does not mean that you live in a rigid legalistic environment. “Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is Liberty.” Daily invite His presence around you. Then when you attend worship you already have Him with you… Christianity is supposed to be a daily lifestyle.
God has a better way for you to live. But it is our individual choice. It’s never to late to implement His principles in your daily lifestyle. But it does or will require change. God can and will guide you. Get off the broad road. This is the worldly road. The broad road leads to destruction. The Narrow Path leads to God and His Peace. But there are only a few that find it. It is the road less traveled. Here is where HE wants to manifest and multiply the Fruit of His Spirit within your daily life. “ALL things are POSSIBLE with GOD!” But you must first submit to; “HIS WILL & HIS WAY!”
God always allows us the freedom to choose. It is the unselfish concern of God for man that explains His Love in a nutshell. God loved us so much that He gave His only begotten Son to die for the sins of the world on the cross. To redeem us from the power of sin. In order to free us from sin’s captivity. He laid down His life for us ALL! There is no greater love than this? Does grace give us the right to willfully sin? God forbid! Out of spiritual ignorance and some unconsciously support the wrong things in people. Rather than abet they enable.
All too often on many occasions some literally “love people to death.” When they are six feet under they cry, rant, rave and shout. But why wait until it’s too late? This does not have to be. Why do we allow people we say we care about to slowly die little by little right before our faces? Why not do something while the blood is still running warm in their veins? It’s because we don’t want to hurt their feelings. Right! We don’t want to hurt their feelings but what about hurting their life? We prefer to take away their motivation to change by comforting them in sin. This does not have to be! Motive is always key in whatever we do. Some people have been loved so wrong for so long they can’t recognize true love. There is only one way to Heaven. “Jesus Christ is the Way the Truth and the Life!”
We cannot change anybody. But God can. But we can stop supporting what we know is wrong. We should always seek to improve ourselves for there is always room for improvement in all of us. We should encourage what God has to say about Life & Living. Some things will just not be understood on this side of heaven. Believe it or not God does not ever support wrong. I don’t care if you have two or two thousand or two million people to support you if it’s wrong it’s wrong. No one is above reproach.
THANK YOU LORD FOR SETTING ME FREE!
Take some time and read Jeremiah. Listen to his vehement protest to what is happening to the environment. Look at what obedience and love he had for God and His principles. For over 40 years he pleaded with Israel. They ignored a great opportunity for spiritual, moral and ethical maturity. They still chose to justify their sins. Did you know that they did not repent in Jeremiah’s time? I wonder if they thought Jeremiah was too negative and needed a personality adjustment? Just imagine the persecution, rejection and ridicule he received for taking a stance against sin. Jeremiah didn’t just talk the talk. He walked it! He suffered greatly yet; he was steadfast and unmovable and blessed by God.
It is time for the CHURCH of GOD to seriously embrace the TRUTH of GOD’S WORD each day. Instead of embracing the current trends of the world we are supposed to set the standard and be led by the Lord. The ways of the world have nested themselves in the midst of GOD’S CHURCH. No doubt; “THE WHEAT and the tares are growing together.” No need to fear but PRAY and ask for DISCERNMENT. We who are HIS CHURCH are supposed to live each day as though our LORD is going to return.
God is about freedom! Spiritual Freedom comes with discipline. Sin is a slave master. It brings bondage. Did you know that it is easier for many to believe a lie rather than believe the truth? God is a Spirit of Truth. “They that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in Truth!” Don’t just follow the crowd. Stay focused and PRAY WITHOUT CEASING all throughout your day and especially during worship!
God will bless and keep you in any and all circumstances. Remember GOD is Love! God is Eternal. “Stand fast in the liberty that Christ has set you free and be not entangled with a yoke of bondage!” Sin is bondage. The Love, Peace, Freedom, and Security that God provides is priceless! God has a much better way. Get off the broad road. Discover that Narrow Path that only a few find. Commit to making a conscious effort to sin less and love with Godly Love.
Now is the time to STAND upon the WORD of GOD! THANK GOD for CHRIST JESUS!& BLESS HIS HOLY NAME!
Spiritual Food For Thought & Spiritual Growth 4
August 19, 2017 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living
Spiritual Food For Thought! & Spiritual Growth! 4
“Let the Prophet who has a dream tell his dream, but let the one who has MY WORD speak it FAITHFULLY. For what has a straw to do with grain?” declares the LORD.” Is not MY WORD like FIRE” declares the LORD.” and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?
“Therefore,” declares the LORD, “I am against the prophets who steal from one another words that are supposedly from ME. “YES” declares the LORD, “I AM against the prophets who wag their own tongue and yet declare, “The LORD declares.’ Indeed I am against those who prophesy false dreams,” declares the LORD. They tell them and lead MY people astray with their reckless lies. Yet I DID NOT send or appoint them. They DO NOT benefit these people in the least,” declares the LORD..” Jeremiah 23 ~ WORD FOR TODAY
THOUGHT FOR TODAY
There is a great difference between True & false prophets. Straw is used for food and grain is to nourish. When we are called to proclaim, preach and teach GOD’S WORD be led by the SPIRIT of GOD! Embrace the TRUTH of the WORD of GOD over the traditions of man. Rather if we speak from a pulpit, platform, classroom, face book, internet station, share with friends or one on one we are entrusted to truthfully express GOD’S WORD! GOD IS ALWAYS aware of what we say, our thoughts and our motives.
PREACH the WORD & not gossip! Whenever we give an opinion it should be made known that this is the case. It is not so much about where you physically stand. It is more important that you STAND upon the WORD of GOD! For example; Just know that the pulpit was a platform built for Ezra to stand upon. Here he preached the WORD of GOD all morning long. “And Ezra the Scribe stood upon a “pulpit of wood, which was made for the purpose… Nehemiah 8 Jesus preached outside, inside, on a mountain even from a boat.
Know GOD’S WORD for yourself!
Deliverance, Emotional and Spiritual Healing is possible with the Lord. In these perilous time it is important to make all people of the world aware of GOD’S OMNIPRESENCE! To teach them how to “BE STILL & KNOW!” Guess what? Judgement begins at the HOUSE of GOD! GOD’S CHURCH is supposed to be “The PILLAR OF TRUTH!”
There is never a need to manipulate or plot… PRAY FOR DISCERNMENT! For; “THE WHEAT and the tares are growing together” TRULY GOD WILL FIGHT YOUR BATTLES. Allow The LORD to be your defense Instead say: LORD have YOUR WAY!
Jeremiah is a marvelous example! He is known as the weeping prophet. His message often made the people feel sad and not glad. They did not want to change but be made to feel comfortable living in sin. They wanted to go through the motions but they did not want to REPENT… They rejected Jeremiah and labeled him negative to discredit him so the people would not receive his message from the Lord!
Ministry is not a popularity contest. It is not about the numbers as well. Keep in mind that there were multitudes of people that followed Christ Jesus. Yet when He was crucified many abandoned Him? Look around and see how the world at large is shifting away from the principles of God. Today being corrected by the Word is not always readily welcomed… This is why it is so very important to be led by the SPIRIT of GOD. Many want to simply remain comfortable doing as they please. But the question is; is GOD pleased? Know that the Lord has a purpose and plan for each of our lives.
Do not fret because of evil instead BE AWARE, TRUST GOD and SEEK HIS direction in all things. Spend time meditating upon His Word!
“REJOICE in the LORD ALWAYS!” For, “Where the Spirit of the LORD is there is Liberty!”
Prepare each day expecting the Lord to return. JESUS CHRIST really is coming back for HIS CHURCH without spot or wrinkle!
Did You Grow Up In The Church? Part 1
December 26, 2016 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living
Did you grow up in the Church but; the Church did not grow up in you? Did you regularly attend Church and regularly participate in all the auxiliaries yet, you did not or do not really have a real relationship with the Lord? Do you just go to Church and the moment you are behind closed doors you abandon all of God’s principles for living? Do you live Monday thru Saturday conforming to the world? Do you go to Church, study God’s Word but don’t really understand how to apply it to your own life? Have you or do you truly live a Godly life before your spouse and children or friends and relatives? Are you obedient to your pastor but disrespectful to your spouse? Are you a great Pastor who is a lousy husband? Do you really know what it is to have a personal relationship with the Lord? If the Lord was to return today can you truly say you will be “caught up in the air to meet Him?” Do you know that Jesus really does make a difference in your life? I am not talking about some religious experience. I am asking you these questions to provoke thought.
For many accepting Jesus Christ is a public experience. For many it is a procedure. For many, accepting Jesus Christ means to have your name on a membership role. Go through a basic initial training; decide what auxiliaries you would like to participate in then, jump right in. (I say auxiliary because there was a time when it was unheard of to say ministries.) If you attend regularly, pay your tithes, don’t make any waves, nor question the process, you have achieved conversion in the eyes of your trainers? In many cases you are expected to give in and yield to those who are in charge regardless. If you are related to or accepted by the established inner circle it is quite possible that as long as you conform to their wishes you can pretty much do whatever you desire. You do not really have to make any major changes in your personal life. Why? Because you love them and they love you, you have proven successfully that you are teachable, obedient and that you respect authority. They also are heart readers and can determine who is who? Hooray! You are now accepted in to what a very good God given friend of mine calls “the club”. Does any of this sound familiar? Did you grow up in the Church but the Church did not grow up in you?
What is the Church? Webster defines Church as; a building of public worship and especially Christian. A body or organization of religious believers. The clergy of a religious body. The Word of God teaches us that HIS people are actually His Church! The Christian Church is really a family of believers who have truly accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord. Who earnestly and faithfully have committed to being governed by God’s principles. As long as we remain on this side of heaven there is room for improvement.
Commit means to; put in trust. To cosign for preservation, disposal or safekeeping, to obligate, bind to and live by. When you commit to live for the Lord; you agree to surrender to His will and His way. You really should live your life from the perspective that God really does see everything. His Holy Spirit becomes your inner guide. You consistently study His Word. As you walk in faith and obedience to God’s principles you are strengthened spiritually. You don’t conform to the world neither do you disrespect the laws of the land.
The Lord loves us so much He gives us the freedom to choose. In His Word He tells us if you abide in Him He will abide in you. His Divine and Holy Spirit will take up residence in your soul. His Holy Spirit is also known as the Comforter. The Comforter will become your inner guide; The Comforter will make your conscious sensitive and aware of Godly instruction for life and daily living. The Comforter will let you know that Jesus Christ is the “Bread of life” John 6:35. That He is the “True Vine” John 15:1. That He is the “Light of the world” John 8:12. That He is “the way, the Truth, and the life.” John 14:6
God will give you a mentally sound mind. It is your choice to continue to sharpen it with His Word. PRAY FOR DISCERNMENT!
Ask yourself have you really chosen God’s way? Have you changed or just outwardly conformed to be accepted? If this is the case you will have very little self discipline. Nor will you have true inner peace. If you have truly changed there is an inner metamorphosis. You will begin to walk in the fruit of His Spirit. Do you really seek the truth? Or do you seek to prove and accept what is false? Is Jesus truly important in your home, job, career and life? Did you grow up in the Church but the Church did not grow up in you?
TRUE MINISTRY
October 28, 2016 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living
~ TRUE MINISTRY ~
“TRUE MINISTRY IS NOT just about how well you CAN sing, dance, preach, proclaim or teach GOD’S WORD; for many, can do that. GOD’S WORD IS ALIVE!!! It goes far beyond the surface… The depth and dimensions of His infallible Word is without limit. Ministry is about carrying the TRUTH of HIS GOSPEL to the world at large… To share HIS WORD & MISSION to individuals, families and communities ALL throughout this world. Today there are many ways and resources in which we can do this…
Christianity is a daily lifestyle. Please do not limit this to your geographical location, zip code, assembly or denomination of choice. “LIVE OUT LOUD THE GOSPEL” for the world to see… “O MAGNIFY the LORD with me. Let us EXALT HIS NAME together!”
MINISTRY is NOT just causing the masses or an individual to go into a multiplicity of temporary moments escaping into emotional despair or a frenzy… This will only result in a temporary fix. Quite often it will cause an ongoing continual series of emotional roller coaster ups and downs. The person is often compliant to participate in the moment because they have a great need to feel accepted.
I am ALL for whole heartedly praising the LORD! But know this “GOD IS NOT the Author of confusion!”
True worship means to “WORSHIP the LORD in SPIRIT and in TRUTH!”
MINISTRY is effectively encouraging others to Believe in GOD!
MINISTRY is often inclusive of displays of heartfelt emotions. It should usher you into the spiritual atmosphere known as the PRESENCE of the LORD. Here your awareness is heightened. This is where strongholds are broken and many or one can be truly delivered, healed and set FREE. We must sincerely invite the infilling presence of the Lord within and seek His direction.
MINISTRY is about how effectively you can encourage others to TRUST & BELIEVE in the LORD without manipulation. MINISTRY is dependent upon HIS HOLY SPIRIT. This should not be orchestrated or just for a visual effect. The intent is to make others aware of the Omnipresence & Omniscience of our Omnipotent Lord & Savior. To encourage them to seek to freely Worship our Lord in public corporate worship as well as private worship! We as His Ambassadors are to encourage individuals to desire to want to embrace THE TRUTH of HIS WORD into their daily lives!
We need His Holy Spirit to continually open our understanding to become enlightened. GOD IS HOLY! There is no other written text that compares to HIS WORD. To grow in His Grace, Knowledge, Love, Wisdom & Understanding. We must submit to His Will & His Way. We must readily submit and seek the Lord for direction while in the Valley of the Shadow of Death which is the earth. God’s Church is universal. LORD, “YOUR KINGDOM COME, YOUR WILL BE DONE on earth as it is in HEAVEN!”
KNOW GOD’S WORD for yourself! Therefore, FOLLOW JESUS and be lead by HIS SPIRIT! SALVATION is about living to be FREED from sin reigning in your life. It is very important to spend personal time with the LORD in HIS WORD
~ GOD WANTS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR DAILY LIFE ~
GOD WANTS each of us to render ourselves up to HIM as a vessel. To live out as well as IMPART HIS TRUTH via song, dance, preaching & teaching in such a WAY that the infilling power of HIS HOLY SPIRIT is quickened within or enters the hearts & minds of those who HE desires to reach…. HIS HOLY SPIRIT IS HIS COMFORTER!
“PRAY without ceasing” ALL throughout your day. This is how you STAY CONNECTED to the LORD! YOU NEVER KNOW what a DAY may bring. Therefore, prepare EVERYDAY to take some TIME in the PRESENCE of the LORD to “BE STILL & KNOW!”
LIVING AS CHILDREN OF GOD
BE RIGHTEOUS AS CHILDREN
“If you KNOW that HE IS RIGHTEOUS you KNOW that everyone who does right is born of HIM! How GREAT is the LOVE the FATHER has lavished on us, that we should be called Children of GOD! And that we are!
The reason the world does not know us is that it DID NOT know HIM!
Dear Friends,
Now we are Children of GOD, and what WE WILL BE has not yet been made known. But we KNOW that when HE APPEARS we SHALL be like HIM. for we SHALL SEE HIM as HE IS,
EVERYONE who has this HOPE PURIFIES himself, just as HE IS PURE!”
~ SINNING IS CONTRARY TO FAITH ~ I JOHN 1
With GOD at your side you CAN become ALL that HE has created you to be! You CAN learn to discipline yourself and sin less with the aid of HIS Holy Spirit. Self-Control is part of the Fruit of His Spirit! He will manifest and multiply the Fruit of His Spirit within you. You CAN become stronger as your own unique self. Live a life of ministry. Daily ask for the infilling presence of HIS HOLY SPIRIT. Let the LIGHT of our LORD shine through you for everywhere you are HE IS with you. SURRENDER, BELIEVE & TRUST GOD. For only with GOD the impossible becomes POSSIBLE!
Grace, Joy, Love & Peace in the Lord!
Did You Grow Up in the Church? Part 3
April 8, 2016 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living, Church
Did You Grow Up in the Church? Part 3
“There really is a difference between being in the Church and the Church being in you? When the Church is in you the Holy Spirit becomes the governor of your soul. You live in the world, you are to be a law abiding citizen but you realize it is in GOD you LIVE and MOVE and have your being. You are convicted whenever wrong. You readily REPENT! You do not desire to be right just for the sake of being right.
The Church is not just a place to go. It is who are! For you it is or should become your daily lifestyle to live to please God!
This is not some unrealistic, legalistic, rigid, mythical, unattainable, cultic way of being. You don’t or shouldn’t just follow someone because they are your friend… You should follow Jesus! Church was never meant to become a mere social club where everyone feels comfortable. You should realize how vitally important it is to live your life before the Lord. As a believer, You should know without a doubt that God is your Heavenly Father. That the devil his imps and no one or nobody can do anything to pluck you out God’s hands. That you truly belong to God and Jesus is your Lord and Savior! You have been adopted into His family and you know that you know that you know without doubting you are His child! Do you know what His Word says about being double minded?
Wait I must caution you!”
(The above was worth repeating just in case you are only reading Part 3)
If you have not been raised in the church DO NOT be discouraged! Read on because the Lord has a place for you as well! You are like a fresh breath of air because of your desire to embark upon a new beginning… ALL the same privileges of becoming a Child of GOD awaits you. ” Our Father, who art in Heaven. Hallowed be Your Name. Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven…”
You see, there really is a difference when you are in the Church and the Church is in you. You know that you have been bought with a price. You know that before you were formed in your Mother’s womb God knew and knows who you are. You also know it is not because of anything you have or have not. It is because of who He is! You can praise Him not only in the building; but you praise Him in your home, on your job or at your business in your car, in the midst of trials and persecution. Not just in mere lip service. You Praise the Lord when you are alone!
There is no need to act when you know that the Lord is totally aware of what we all do. Yes express yourself. Don’t be a chameleon and blend right in… Please, don’t be pressured because of a need to be accepted. We ALL will have to answer to Him for our actions. It is important to know that you have a right to not conform for the sake of being momentarily accepted. There are many things that have been integrated into worship and ministry to get others to conform. There is often a desire to generate a high energetic emotional worship & praise time. Many become emotionally charged. Praise & Worship is Great! Many do not realize the power of or behind music… In these latter days there is much more focus placed upon how your are feeling and what you can receive from the Lord. Worship & Praise should be a time devoted to God and who He is and what he has done and will do.
GOD IS A HOLY GOD!
God does not need any of us. Always remember; “…It is in HIM we LIVE and MOVE and have our being…” GOD is infinite and we are finite. This is not about undermining the validity of GOD’S CHURCH! This is about learning to exercise your RIGHTS and the FREEDOM you have wherever you decide to worship in a place that claims; ” HE IS LORD!” There are a plethora of places of worship all over the world. But, GOD has but ONE CHURCH! HE is the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob we serve as Believers.
Pray, Pray & Pray some more. Allow the Spirit of the Lord lead you. Let the Lord lead you what to do or not to do… God really does want to make a difference in your live everyday!
When you do not always respond in the way expected it is highly likely you will be misunderstood. You will also begin to actually better understand why others do not understand you. I always say; “Some things will not be understood on this side of Heaven!” What is always most important is to seek the will of the Lord above everything and everyone. Know that Jesus was grossly misunderstood. It is true God’s people are peculiar! God wants to strengthen your faith and trust in Him. You can stand even when you know others have done everything possible to try to discourage you. Keep Your focus on the Lord. God wants each of us to become the “Best You” in HIM! After all He is our Creator.
God is awesome! Standing for God does not mean resorting to carnality. Your confidence cannot be in you, are anything else. Yes, you can have confidence because you know God as your Father. You know that He knows you as His child. You know and He knows that you have spent some deep intimate time together in His presence. You are growing and so is your understanding of who He is. You know that He has set you free! You know that you have been raised in the church and the church is in you. Or You have come to know that now you are His Church.
God really has a better way for His children. God is not a respecter of persons. It does not matter to Him if you are rich or poor, black, white, red, yellow, tan or brown. He already knows where you live, work, play or “hang out.” He even knows if you have been raised in the church and the church is not in you. He knows if you walk in the flesh or abide in His Spirit. If you truly invite Him into your heart today He will come in your life and make a real difference. If you have not been raised in the church God can place His laws within your heart. It even may give you a different advantage. You see and observe and you wonder why? Know that the Spirit of the Lord is Omniscient and The Lord can teach you whatever you need to know. GOD will never lead you to do anything that goes against HIS WORD! It is important to make spending time in God’s Word a priority. There is and endless wealth of Spiritual Food for our souls in His Word. As you begin to grasp His Word it will wash you and cleanse you from all unrighteousness. As a new believer you are not as weighed down with many of the traditions of man. You are should feel free to ask what this or that is so wherever you worship. Ask unto you have an inner peace. Make studying God’s Word your new priority. In His time He will mold and shape you from the inside out. This is a continuous process. He will also teach you how to guard your heart.
There are many wolves among the sheep. Don’t fret God always takes care of His children even in the midst of tests and trials. There are also those who call evil good and good evil. God will and can protect you and keep you from the grasp of wickedness. You must learn to humbly submit to His direction. He will open your spiritual eyes so you can begin to have a deeper understanding about life. No drugs, nicotine or alcohol needed to enlighten you. You don’t want to live always under the influence of some substance. (This is not anti valid prescribed medications) Begin to be more prayerful about how you take care of your body. You want to seek to have better self control in all area of your life. You will not want to see things as they appear. You will desire to see clearly. Your conscious will become sensitive and you will have a deepened desire to do what is right in His sight rather than in the sight of man. Realize that Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly in every way. HIS WORD is necessary SPIRITUAL FOOD for our souls!
God also said in the Book of John to “let not your heart be troubled.” It is very important to trust God and His WORD! The earth truly is the Lord’s. Truly He will take care of you. God already knows what is going on in your life and the life of those around you. Just begin to exercise patience. He will bring what happens in the dark to the light. Did you know you have as much time as you need to do the things that God would have you to do. Time belongs to God.
Study the story of Gideon. (See Judges 6) Gideon was nota likely leader. He prevailed not because of how many he had to help him. As a matter of fact the Lord told him he needed fewer people to help him. Gideon faithfully sought the Lord for direction. The Lord told Gideon; “Peace! Do not be afraid> You will not die!” There are many examples in the Word of God to help us in all areas of life. God will supply the necessary talents and resources for you to do whatever He wants you to do. He will supply the few or many you need to help you. This way He gets the GLORY and the VICTORY always belongs to GOD ALMIGHTY. It is not in the amount, how many are for you or against you. Nor in whoever rises up against you. It is in learning how to obey God.
God will make it evident to you and those about you that it is only by His grace and mercy that you can truly be successful. Spiritual success is not in the numbers. Fewer travel the Narrow Path. God knows when you have been raised in His Church and His Church is in you. He knows when you have not been raised in the church and it is your sincere desire to want to know Him. What matters to HIM is your willingness to allow HIM to mold and be shaped through His Living Word and His Holy Spirit. He wants us all to readily “REPENT!” whenever necessary. He is not a respecter of persons and His Love is extended to everyone all over the world. Through FAITH we learn to believe! This is why we are called “Believers!” Christ Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world and He extends HIS LOVE to ALL! He wants to come live within your hearts through eternity and become your personal Lord & Savior! This world was spoken into existence through Him! As believers we are the sheep of His Pasture. The LORD wants to be your SHEPHERD! Remember this; “He leads me in the Path of Righteousness for His Namesake. Yea though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death I WILL fear NO evil. For THOU art with me. THY ROD & STAFF THEY COMFORT me…” Psalms 23 Grace, Joy, Love & Peace to you in Jesus Name! If you really want to be happier, Live Everyday: “To God be the Glory!”
Growing and maturing beyond resentment Part 4
January 28, 2016 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Uncategorized
Marriage God’s way Works!
Growing and maturing beyond resentment!
Part 4
When do you know that you have been delivered?
When you receive something that was mailed or sent to you; you “get it.”
Many week after week, month after month and yes sometimes year after years seek deliverance from a situation or… Break the cycle! God wants you to be free. But not to be free to continue in sin. Sin separates you from God. Don’t let what has happened keep you apart from God. Readily repent of any unconfessed sin and accept God’s forgiveness. What happened was beyond your control… Whoever or what ever hurt you or whoever you hurt cannot be undone. But you can move forward starting today! Allow time to release you from the trauma of the incident or situation by embracing the fact that God loves you and wants you to walk in the Path of Righteousness. Embrace the TRUTH of HIS WORD and the cleansing POWER of HIS WORD!
“All have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of GOD.” We ALL forever need Jesus as Lord and Savior!
Therefore when you understand the situation that has been bogging you down clearly, you also “get it!” You can then move forward and take control rather than let it take control of you. You must come out of denial and acknowledge that it occurred. Now you have decided to move forward but you will not allow it to consume your attention anymore. You will let your mind reflect on the cleansing Power of the WORD and on the HOLY SPIRIT’S POWER to transport you to move to higher ground. Spiritual cleansing is welcomed and it is here you build new memories that transcend what has been. You make way for more of GOD’S LOVE! Whenever the unpleasant memory or pain of it resurfaces you pray & “FOCUS” your attention elsewhere. You do not go into denial but embrace The Joy that comes from having the Lord in your life and walking in your growing “self-control.”
Many seek worldly ways and means to deal with resentment rather than first consult with the Lord. God’s Way is always superior!
What is so amazing about the Lord is you do not have to experience what others have experienced to have compassion or understanding. We all have experienced a degree of hurt, pain, disappointment, rejection… Understanding comes from God. You do have to rely upon His Holy Spirit in order to be an instrument to facilitate bringing forth healing.
The Lord wants to Lighten your load. If you do not deal with the problem it will or can eventually lead you to physical and mental issues if not dealt with. If this is the case you should seek proper medical attention. If you continue to carry the heavy burden it is an indication that you have not released it to the Lord. Each time it surfaces give it less time. If necessary time how long you will ponder upon it. Then switch to something else. Know that you have actually taken control of it by releasing it to the Lord and now you are all the wiser because of the experience. You know where you do not want to go; and its not backward!
You can choose to become whole! Depression wants to consume your today and tomorrow and rob you of JOY! Don’t blame others when you allow it to steal today’s JOY. See it for what it is. Sometimes you may have to grieve momentarily to validate your feelings. As you take control, you will less and less allow your emotions to get the best of you. It is important to remember that depression surfaces when you allow your unresolved anger to turn inward. Resentment means to feel again. Instead of letting go you hold on to the hurt and pain which fuels unhealthy emotions and holds you captive. Understanding what is gong on helps you to “Break Free!”
You no longer will allow the resentment to hinder you from moving forward to becoming a “better you!” You refuse to get or stay stuck! Time is precious and you do not want to spend too much of it in regrets. Tomorrow is not promised so waste less todays. You can now see the experience as having gained some deeper insight because of that particular “Life Lesson.” You do not always need to explain why, because your understanding has matured and your healthy self-esteem has begun to flourish since you take responsibility for your own emotional responses. Nor do you live in denial. You do not let unpleasant what has been overtake what you have begun to build anew.
You are moving towards and choosing to live to please God and your confidence in Him is now growing as well. Always remember everywhere you are God is! Make it a goal to let no one come between you and the Lord. Invite the Lord into whatever is going on in you are around you. Learn for yourself what Ephesians 6 says about spiritual warfare. Hold it dear to your heart not just to quote but to embrace its POWER! Get your Spiritual Armor on and keep it on. Remember HIS WORD is necessary Spiritual Food for your soul!
Yes, you can, Believe & say; “I CAN DO ALL things through CHRIST who strengthens me!” Philippians 4
Yes, You can move forward. Some unconsciously choose to stay “stuck.” Some simply don’t care either way they have grown so accustomed to abuse and anxiety. Stop letting fear control you. It has become and unhealthy “insecurity blanket!” Rather than let the resentment go they may elect to anesthetize themselves with drugs, alcohol, smoking, promiscuity, gossip, over or under eating or some other reckless behavior or distraction. This unhealthy behavior will only lead to further disappointment and possibly more addictions rather than freedom. Abusive outbursts and out of control undisciplined behavior and resentment is the unhealthy response rather than deal with the inner pain. You can break the cycle. But it takes work & dedication!
Know that GOD wants you to be Happy. He wants you to experience the Fruit of His Spirit. See Galatians 5. Jesus overcame sin in the flesh for us! We are not to make anyone else responsible for our happiness. Being happy is each individual’s own personal responsibility. As a believer God’s Holy Spirit is always there to help us at all times. Sin is what separates us from God! We must humbly submit and be willing to readily repent of any sin. Then we can keep moving forward to wholeness! THANK GOD for your DELIVERANCE!
God wants us to become complete in Him Part 2
October 15, 2015 by Elder/Minister DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral & Emotional Health, Christian Living
God wants us to become complete in Him
Part 2
God is omnipresent therefore everywhere we are God is there. As believers our body is a temple where God’s Holy Spirit resides once we accept Jesus Christ into our hearts as Savior & Lord. His Word is Spiritual Food for our souls. There is miraculous cleansing power in the blood of Jesus! God wants us to daily draw near to HIM with sincere hearts. Here is how we begin to move toward spiritual wholeness.
When we are connected to the LORD He will help us become all that He wants us to be. In an ongoing growing intimate personal relationship with the Lord we can discover everything that we will ever need for life & living. God never intended for us to be dependent upon others for our security and significance. He only wants us to be dependent upon Him. This is why we need to disconnect from the world and connect and stay plugged into the Lord! This is also why He encourages us to “PRAY without ceasing.” This keeps us focused upon HIM!
GOD is Omniscient
God is the source of everything that is genuinely good. If we all were ALL dependent upon Him this world would be a much better place to live. HIS CHURCH, our marriages, our families, our homes, neighborhoods, cities, towns, states, countries and the world at large would all be a lot happier and healthier.
God wants to continuously open our spiritual eyes and provide abundant living in every area of our lives. He wants the Fruit of His Spirit to manifest and multiply within our daily lives. When we are connected to the Lord we are even more cognizant of the world and what is happening all around us, yet we worry less as we learn to trust God more. Our discernment is sharper, our inner peace enhanced and we also become more spiritually enlightened.
Growing closer to God
Life on earth is designed as a continuous experience of lessons that can help us to grow spiritually. We can elect to grow closer to God or we can grow further away from Him. Anything that is not growing is dead! I was taught by a wise loving mother that, “We are forever becoming, and we never arrive.” This simply means that there is always something to learn as long as the Lord has us on this side of Heaven. We never get to the place that we do not need the Lord! God is the ultimate Father and He can feel as well as fill the void, resolve any despair as well as correct and heal any dysfunction that persists. God loves us and wants what is best for each of us.
GOD allowed His Son Jesus Christ to die in our place. The past, present & future sins of the world were placed upon Christ on the cross. “For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew NO sin; that we might be made the righteousness of GOD in Him!” 2 Corinthians 5. He overcame sin in the flesh for us and has given us His Holy Spirit to help us live better God centered lives.
Jesus Christ atoned for the sins of the world
Jesus Christ died so that we could become FREE from habitual sin! As we grow in His grace, understanding, knowledge & wisdom and apply His principles to our own lives we should begin to sin less. We are to be ambassadors for Jesus Christ! After we complete the course of life we who are believers return to Him to live through eternity. Each day we are to live on earth as though our Lord was going to return!
“For God so loved the world, that He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to SAVE the world though HIM!” John 3 Everyday: “To GOD Be The GLORY!”
GOD designed us to be controlled from the inside out by HIS HOLY SPIRIT! This is why when we accept JESUS CHRIST as SAVIOR & LORD HIS COMFORTER comes to abide and live within us! HE is our Internal Spiritual Teacher that can lead us to ALL TRUTH! HIS WORD does not say; lead us to some of the TRUTH! This is why: “THE RUE WORSHIPPERS WORSHIP THE LORD in SPIRIT & in TRUTH!” We should have;”A GREAT HALLLELLLUJAH” time whenever we worship & praise HIM knowing all that the LORD has done for us. It is our choice to live each day to please GOD or live to be accepted by others and conform to the ways of this world.
“The Word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart, that is the Word of Faith we are proclaiming; that if you confess with your mouth that “JESUS IS LORD!” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you WILL be SAVED. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. As the Scripture says; “Anyone who God trusts in Him will never be put to shame” Romans 10
You do not ever have to be ashamed once you truly realize the anointing cleansing POWER of HIS HOLY SPIRIT when you are walking in the LIGHT of HIS WORD! Don’t ever let anyone make you doubt GOD’S OMNIPOTENT POWER!
Overcoming Sin
September 27, 2011 by Minister/Elder DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christian Living
“It is by Grace we are saved not of works lest any man should boast.” Salvation is a gift of God. God has predestined us to be conformed to the image of His son. Once we become saved it is a continual growing process?
The process of salvation was designed by God to redeem us from the curse of sin and death. Due to the original sin of Adam and Eve we have inherited a sin based nature. We have inherited a natural proclivity towards sin. When we begin to grow in the knowledge and grace of our Lord and Savior we can begin learning how to overcome our weaknesses. Not in our own strength but only by His power. Psalms 84:11 says “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”
Jesus overcame sin in the flesh as an example. To demonstrate and model to us that when we are obedient to God we can overcome flesh weaknesses. We must make a conscious effort to live lives that are pleasing in the sight of God. The Old Testament is full of examples when God’s children lived Holy lives. We are to live Holy. Holy does not mean we are sinless. It means we consciously choose to be governed by what God says. We are set apart for His use. There should be a definite difference in the way you live. It should reflect change eventually. Your life should reflect some evidence that you have surrendered. God does not ask us to do anything that we are not able to do. God has said, “Be ye Holy because I am Holy”.
When we choose to sin there are consequences. Salvation does not exempt us from the consequences of sin. The law of sowing and reaping is true. You do reap what you sow. Begin to sow seeds of righteousness before your sin harvest overtakes you. The world embraces sin. It continues to lure the believer to think that walking the broad road is safe. God does love us unconditionally but He allows us to be impacted by sin. The world is currently experiencing the consequences of sin. Jesus who was without sin died in shame on the cross for us. He bore the weight of our sins. He died; He gave His life to atone for the consequences of our sin.
We have been justified. This means we have been declared righteousness. We have been sanctified. Pardoned from the guilt and penalty of sin. This still does not give us an excuse to sin. God’s grace shields us from the total impact of our sins. Roman 5 says; “Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into His grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD and not only that, but we glory in tribulation, knowing that tribulation produces patience and patience, character and character hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
Why do we continue to encourage sin to prevail? When we condone sin we are doing just that. Scripture tells us ” If we confess our sins He is faithful to forgive us of our sins and His blood will cleanse us from all unrighteousness”. We must begin to move to a higher level of functioning. Our works do not save us. But our works are supposed to display our faith. If we allow sin to recycle and reign in our lives we water down the effectiveness of salvation. We must implement self- control over our sin weakness. Jesus was strong yet compassionate. Breaking unhealthy cycles can be painful. The old cliché’ no pain no gain is warranted.
God’s grace is the equalizer. It reminds us that he has given us salvation in lieu of who we are! No one deserves or can earn salvation. Each of us must develop a personal relationship with the Lord. This is where your personal strength comes from. If we hide God’s Word in our heart it helps us not to sin against Him. The scriptures are designed to shine the light on our sin so we can be convicted. When truly convicted we can feel remorseful. This is the process that leads to true repentance. “Grace and peace is multiplied by the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” According to II Peter 1:2
Quite often people don’t know the difference between persecution and conviction. Persecution is to harass in a manner to injure, grieve, or afflict. Convict means to find or prove guilty! The two are often confused. When you allow someone to feel convicted they may often see you as negative. Why? Because they will often associate you with the guilt they are feeling. They quite often feel you are persecuting them. It is very important to know your motives. You must learn to be a guardian to your heart. When you know your motives and you are aware God knows your motives you will have inner peace. Take time to study the prophets. You will be able to clearly see that they were considered as very negative. You see God’s grace is crucial for the Christian. It will sustain you when you are misunderstood.
Life is full of many valley and mountain top experiences. The casual acceptance of sin has allowed many to be deceived. Dysfunction has been sanctioned and embraced. Weakness nourished and comforted. Dysfunction has become an unhealthy comfort zone for many. God does not want any of His children to be a slave to sin. When you are a slave to something or someone it or they control you! Abandoning unhealthy cycles can be painful. But it actually leads to freedom! We begin to embrace freedom when we learn to take responsibility for our actions. Abandon the tendency to blame someone else. This will also begin to free you from the difficult merry-go-round of dysfunction. Did you know it is much easier to blame someone else for your unhappiness? If you take an honest examination you may possibly be able to determine the origin of your unhappiness. Quite often it was there long before you met your current accuser. Begin to take control by taking responsibility. Find healthy ways to meet your physical emotional and spiritual needs. Hebrews 4:16 tell us to”Come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need”
Paul had a thorn in his flesh but God told him his grace was sufficient! We today still don’t know what that thorn was! Perhaps it was the very thing that brought Paul in such close fellowship to the Lord? God allows people, situations, and things in our life for a reason. Discipline is not usually something we naturally welcome. Why? We would really rather avoid pain! Many times we would actually rather discipline someone else. But for the child of God discipline is absolutely necessary! A little acronym I learned long ago; Grace is actually Gods, Riches, At, Christ, Expense!
Christ did not need to suffer to learn obedience. He suffered for us! He humbled Himself for us! He fulfilled all of the requirements of righteousness for us! Roman 6:1 “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? We as children of God must strive to continuously discipline ourselves to His principles! Ask your self have you died to sin? Or should I say or you dying daily to sin? Is sin reigning in your life? Have you ventured onto the broad road? Or are you sitting on the fence? Begin to lay aside any sin that hinders your walk with the Lord! Commence living and standing on the Word of God! Jesus sacrificed his life for us. The blood sacrifices of animals would not do. God said if you truly love Him you will keep His commandments. In Roman 12 we are told to; “Present your body a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of GOD.”
