DISTRACTION

Distraction is the process of diverting the attention of an individual or group from the desired area of focus and thereby blocking or diminishing the reception of desired information. Distraction is caused by: the lack of ability to pay attention; lack of interest in the object of attention; or the great intensity, novelty or attractiveness of something other than the object of attention. Well at least that is the meaning from the dictionary - but I think we all know the power of distraction and how it will and can literally rob us from focusing on our purpose. Simply put, distraction is a thing that prevents someone from giving full attention to something else or better yet extreme agitation of the mind or emotions. So why does distraction manifest? I believe that it is a tool used by the enemy (Satan) of our soul to pull us outside of purpose. Often times distraction comes through people, places and things. When we are not able to discern when it manifests, we often will label it as just dealing with occurrences that arise on a day to day basis. With the inability to discern we will entertain distraction to the point that it begins to weigh on our minds and emotions. It becomes like a pad and pen we pick up on daily basis with the expectation that at any point this "distraction" will resurface today. We write the distraction on the tablet of our hearts, talk about it, rehearse it,  and talk about it again until we become submerged with it and we lose grip of the most important thing, our purpose. A distraction can not stop one from fulfilling their purpose, however it can cause major delays in getting to where you need to be. When we entertain distraction it progresses into other things that swiftly takes us on a downward spiral. First distraction will produce disappointment. Disappointment arises because the one that generated the distraction passes the weight on to you and ultimately it begins to weigh on your mind and emotions. Our inability to discern what it is passes the burden to you and now disappointment sets in. Second, it becomes distasteful. It is at this point that what I took on causes me to become distasteful. Now the thing that I allowed to distract me takes me down a path straight to feeling unpleasant or no longer desirable.  When desire dwindles distraction takes us to the third area of concern which is defeat. Notice just by simply being unable to discern when distraction comes, it has taken us from: disappointment, to being distasteful and lastly feeling defeated. At this point one becomes overwhelmed and when we look back we are shocked to see that we have allowed ourselves to drift away from working on the thing we were focused on prior to the distraction pulling us  away. Defeat sets in and we no longer feel victorious, we no longer have the zeal to keep pressing towards purpose. How do we reemerged pass the ashes of distraction? How do we get refocused? First we have to remember that Christ must be the object of our faith and center of our focus. Then we will be able to align ourselves with Isaiah 26:3, "They that keep their minds stayed on him shall be kept in perfect peace." Also we have to remember that Jesus is able to carry us through. Matthew 11: 28-29, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest; take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."  The bible declares  in John 10:10 That "the thief comes to kill steal and destroy." I believe that distraction has that same purpose; to steal our destiny, to kill our effectiveness, and destroy our passion. Stay focused and see distraction for what it truly is. 

Obscruity and Notoriety

From the days of our youth, we have a desire to be seen, heard or recognized. We push pass our siblings to show mom and dad the smiley face the teacher wrote on our classwork. It feels good to be recognized - as a matter of fact, in a recent poll, employees across the nation were asked, what is most important to you in relation to your place of employment - surprisingly, next to money was recognition from their managers and/or supervisors. Spiritually it's quite the opposite - God often unveils before he reveals. What I mean by that is evident in scripture, "Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God and He will exalt you in due season." Interestingly it doesn't say mom, dad, brother, sister, grandparents or co-workers - the scripture says - "humble yourself" I think about King David - David was anointed at 15 but did not possess the office or position of king until he was 30....don't forget Moses - left Egypt at 40 years old, was in the desert for 40 years and at 80 years old...yes a 40 year wait...went back to Pharaoh proclaiming, "Let my people go" - and last but not lease, Jesus Christ (Lord and Savior) at 12 years old he was found by His mother and Joseph holding an amazing conversation with grown men, articulate men - yet His earthly ministry wasn't launched until he was 30 years old - 18 year wait. Amazingly, in our generation we want it now! If we are not recognized we become frustrated and often question leadership and or the process, Nowadays, people often feel a sense of entitlement - as if they are owed the promotion, increase or elevation without a cost. Obscurity is a very important piece of the process - this is when no one knows who you are - obviously I am not referring to co-workers or family members, but rather those outside of your normal realm of influence. Obscurity is the time in which a breaking happens, when the filthy things, those things we struggle with, those besetting sins that often trip us up have to be dealt with - this is when we have to truly understand what repentance means - this is when we must distinguish between repentance and telling God I'm sorry - Repentance is when we turn and no longer engage in the reckless lifestyle that leads us contrary to God's will for our life. This unveiling is a good thing because no one is aware of the struggle (unless you tell it) and God covers and forgives, but if you don't break free from saying I'm sorry to true repentance then what you do privately will be unveiled publicly. It doesn't happen because God doesn't love you, but rather because you refused to turn or repent. To many times we have seen the destruction of many great men and women by way of some public scandal that manifested because of his or her refusal to correct their behavior in private.  Its very important that you embrace the season of obscurity and grow in grace because there is so much more that God wants to reveal to you and through you. After we transition from obscurity we enter into notoriety. When this happens there is no human effort needed, there is not need to step over anyone to get to the top because it is God that exalts in due season - the favor of God is made manifest at this time and everything you need will be provided for "My God shall supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." There is not a timetable that says I must wait 5 years and you must wait 7 years; Obscurity and notoriety is not about when will I begin to walk in that wealthy place, but rather has my character developed, can I manage my finances, do I know how to love my spouse, am I maximizing my relationship with God while I'm single, am I taking care of my children, am I walking in love, am I harboring hatred in my heart, am I studying God's word, are Christ characteristics evident in my life? Purpose is revealed when we humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God - He will lead you in a plain path...for God will bless you on purpose in purpose - don't rush the process - when God gets ready to bless you and lift you up can't NO devil in hell stop him!

Addicted to Addiction

We all have struggles of sorts that get the best of us. Its the under belly or soft part that we have yet to sure up and make strong. It remains a weak part of our life arsenal that becomes the achilles heel or the area that remains exposed right when we feel that we have overcome the struggle. What struggle you ask? Alcohol, drugs, sex, anger, pornography, gossip, procrastination, promiscuity, fear....there may be some that I left out, but I think you get the point. I often ask a question: Why do I do what I do - I know that sounds a bit cliché, however why go back when I know that the thing that binds me smothers me and try's to take the very life out of me? I believe that part of the reason that we continue to go back  and struggle with our struggle or to that which God has delivered us from is because we never dealt with the root of the matter. Its not "it" "that" "him" or "her" its the addiction. The addiction has generated a since of allegiance in us and the addiction begins to operate through us and leads us, guides and even speaks to us. The addiction presents a picture of the sensation we receive or feel after we engage with "it" "that" "him" or "her" - If we look closer we will realize that we do not love the thing, we have an essence fallen in love with the addiction or better yet we have become "addicted to the addiction." Its the sensation that we want its the climax or the high and nothing more. That is why shortly after reaching the climax or high we hit rock bottom or better yet we begin to condemn ourselves. Often times we call ourselves stupid and even go a step further by falling into a deep, deep depression. This is when satan and is imps step in; they quickly begin to rehearse or repeat these lines: "you'll never get out of this" God doesn't love you, if He did would He  allow you to go through this?" "This is just the way it is suppose to be." That is the furthest thing from the truth. We can be free, you can be free. We stop hanging around people that lead us to the wrong thing and we break up with the person that we do the wrong thing with. That works for a season, but shortly thereafter we are right back in the thing we thought we were free from. How can this be? I submit to you that the person that has to be confronted is not him, her or them - its the man or woman in the mirror. There is a responsibility that we have individually when it comes to the thing or things that we have become addicted to. I truly believe that deliverance can be instantaneous, but I  also believe that after we have been made free we have to feel the void. Jesus said it this way, When in unclean spirit has goes out of a man it walks around seeking a new dwelling place; when it finds none, it returns to its old dwelling place and finds it clean, but empty. It then brings seven more wicked than itself and the person is worse that he was before." (Matthew 12:43-45a). This person has to replace the unclean with the clean; study God's word, develop a prayer life and find a good bible teaching church. That way the Word of God can be applied to the heart and mind. Change won't come until change is desired by the individual that is sick and tired of being sick and tired. Change your thinking, change your life. The Apostle Paul approached God in prayer about a thorn in his  flesh and look what God's response was: "Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." (2 Corinthians 12:8-9).
 

 God's grace is sufficient! Know that you can do all things through Christ that strengthens you ~ Don't Quit!!!

Day 5 #2017

..."And they shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free." Very powerful verse in the bible that means just what it says. I had the opportunity to spend some alone time in the presence of God. My wife went to work and our daughters were off to school. So there I was in the house all alone...I must admit my thoughts were not on the things of God. I paused and just began to call on the name of the Lord. It was right then I could feel the presence of God engulf me! I began to worship and I just went to another place. Now I must say that I did not have an experience like this for several months; it is so easy to get out of order so to speak when it comes to spiritual things. Nevertheless, while in the presence of God, He speaks...he reveals to us things that are necessary for us to know while on this journey. While mediating in God's presence this was impressed in my spirit: "don't convolute truth." If I can be honest, I didn't know what "convolute" meant. I mean I heard the word before, but I didn't know its meaning. Let me digress for a moment: One thing I love about God is the fact that when he speaks or reveals something to us its often quite simple, but yet life changing. One word from God can revolutionize an individual, a city or nation. Well back to my investigation of this word. After looking up the word convolute I discovered that it means: "make (an argument, story, etc.) complex and difficult to follow." After my discovery, my conscious was enlighten. I began to ask, "What then is truth?" Not according to human logic, but rather according to God's word. According to God's word truth is explained this way: "While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that you gave me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to thee; and these things I speak In the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world  pray not that thou should take them out of the world, but that thou should keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through your truth: your word is truth."(John 17:12-17). I was able to see that truth is God's word. I then asked myself, "What is God's word?" I discovered this: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God; And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1:1 &14). Jesus Christ is  the Word of God. So wait a minute - what was revealed to me was: "don't convolute truth." Truth is God's word and God's word became flesh and dwelt among us...now I get it!

So let me say it the way I now understand it: Don't twist truth or better yet,  Don't make following Christ complex. After getting it I began to examine myself to see if there was any way that I have made it difficult for others to follow Christ. I realized that our life is a way in which we minister. Our spouse looks to us, our children look to us, our family and our co-workers look to us. What we say and what we do can cause those that know that we are followers of Christ to second guest our relationship with Jesus and/or being His disciple. As believers, we have to "Let our light so shine before men that they may see our good works and glorify our Father which is in heaven."  Furthermore, we have to make sure that we are not watering down truth to make it fit into this world system. What I mean by that is compromising truth in order for those that are not aligned with truth to feel comfortable in the way he or she lives. We have to stand with truth and tell the truth when it comes to individuals that come into our sphere of influence. We should never tell a lie to someone that confides in us about their eternal destiny. We have to let them know that the "Wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life." There are consequences to living a life not pleasing to Almighty God. True, God does love everybody, but we have to live right. First we have to check the person in the mirror; because if I am not living in truth in my private life I will not proclaim the truth effectively to others publicly.  #TelltheTruth #Shamethedevil

Day 4 #2018

There is an unlimited resource that lies within you that desires to be released. The release of this resource is predicated on your desire to discover your purpose or why you  are here on the earth. It requires digging, probing and insight. Your digging, probing and insight will spark a discovery that propels you to an unimaginable place. We all are uniquely gifted and our gift is a blessing that will bring smiles to many faces and ultimately bring glory to God. I like to compare it to oil - as I am sure you already know, oil is beneath the earth and its value is unbelievable! Oil is so valuable around the world because oil heats our houses, fuels our cars, heats our stove and so many other things. Without oil, it would be hard to survive because Americans can't do anything without electricity. Getting to the oil takes insight, probing and digging. "Black  Gold" or "Texas Tea" as it is often called, is a blessing to all those that come in contact with it. You too dear reader have that same potential inside of you. Like oil your gift needs to be released so that it can be a blessing to all that come in contact with it. I can't speak for anyone else, but I can for myself. I was at a point in my life about 20 years ago when I began asking why am I on the earth and what is my purpose? I went to college, had a great family, but it was more to life than this. It wasn't until I began to pray that I discovered something. Now it wasn't at a conference, in a  prayer group or empowerment meeting (not knocking that). It was in my bedroom where I feel to my knees and said, "God if you tell me why I'm here I will do just that. Please Lord reveal it to me." It was that simple. I didn't see angels or taken to heaven. I just knew that God, in whom I believe, would tell me. So I headed out for a jog and walk in my neighborhood. It began to rain so I slowed down and couldn't help but notice this tattered and torn piece of paper that was barely hanging on to this light pole. I approached the pole and saw on the tattered and torn piece of paper these words: "YOU ARE A WRITER." I felt strongly in my heart that this was the answer to my prayer. I returned home, fell to my knees and said, "God if this is what I was born to do, tell me where do I begin." Shortly thereafter my thoughts became flooded with poetry, ideas for books, theatrical productions and movies all for the glory of God. My life has never been the same! Now your gift may not be to write, but I assure you there is something in you that needs to get out. Pray my brother, pray my sister - cry out to God, trust Him for He is a speaking God! He will reveal your purpose. Ask, seek, knock and watch God move! #purpose #destiny

Day 3 #2018

...Right when it appears that you have things aligned correctly...right when you feel that you're in sink at the midway point of  the New Year...it happens. Someone says something or does something that causes you to question the commitment you made just a few days a go. Where does it come from and why now? I just said "New Year, New Me....I just locked into the resolution I made privately. Why do people get out of character right when I get focused, right when I make that conscious decision to turn over that new leaf? Can I tell you why? First the adversary of our soul does not take vacations or breaks. God's word declares that "the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds." So in laymen's terms, the battle is spiritual not physical. Our adversary stays on his job 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I am not saying it out of fear but rather making you aware that we have to be dressed appropriately to combat the opposition when he does arise. God's word also declares that we are to "put on the whole armor of God so that we can stand against the wiles of the devil." Attacks come from our future and because of our future. I'll get to that shortly; but for now take a walk with me and lets see how Jesus faced scenarios like this. "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread."Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but by every word  that proceeds from the mouth of God. The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. If you worship me, it will all be yours." Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'" The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here; for it is written: "He will give his angels charge over you to keep you in all your ways. they will lift you in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. Jesus answered, "It is written: "Do not put the Lord your God to the test. When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time."(Luke 4:1-13).


I said that to say this - you have to stay focused - you have to stay the course! You know that God has great plans for you! You know that better days are ahead, but the adversary of our soul, the devil, desires to keep it hidden from us. Our adversary doesn't know all things but he knows somethings; and it is because of your future he and his imps fight vehemently to stop us from pressing on. How does he do that? He does it through other people. I'm not saying everything is the devil, but what I am saying that when you discover your purpose, when you begin to understand why you are here, he does everything in his might to keep you off course. Earlier I mentioned that we have to be dressed appropriately what I mean by that is: The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." (Ephesians 6:13-17).  It's early in the new year, don't let things from the past nor current opposition cause you to lose focus ~ and whatever you do, don't violate the dress code!

Day 2 #2019

Picture this: you're at the Pebble Beach Resort in California. Not only is your room immaculate, the view from your patio is breath taking. Now let me ask you a question - Can you see it? I mean can you see what I am saying? I don't know about you but not only can I see myself  there, but  I can also see myself in my pajamas and robe, kicked back on that very same patio with a book and my pumpkin spice coffee and not a care in the world. Now obviously I am not there, but the image that I just painted in your mind and mine took me to a place of ease. Didn't cost me one dollar, I didn't even ask you for  your credit card - and I won't! But my point is, our thought life is so critical to us having a level of peace which will ultimately transition from the invisible to the visible; from mere vision to that which is tangible.

"As a man thinks in his heart, so is he" (Proverbs 23:7). Its not false reality, but rather your new vantage point. What is that you ask...a place or position affording a good view of something. You have to see yourself out before you get out. You have to make the adjustment or align yourself with truth so that you can flow in purpose and walk into your destiny. Alignment is important. I'm not an auto mechanic but check this out: You may own a car or eventually one day you will. One thing that is important is that we get our tires aligned. Not just once but multiple times while owning the vehicle. What are wheel alignments? Is it really a necessary service? The term defines the service: It makes sure the wheels and tires are in a straight line, or “aligned” with each other. When all four wheels are properly aligned, the tires work together more effectively. This results in better handling, better steering wheel return, better fuel economy (because the tires are not being dragged sideways as they are when misaligned), and, most importantly--what we all love to see—the tires will wear more evenly and last longer. Make sense? Having vision in 2019 is critical to your growth and development. God has great plans for you life: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).   His grace and favor is something that we all have the opportunity to obtain, we just need to get ourselves aligned with His dear son Jesus. His word declares: "If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus Christ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved."

Day 1 #2019

"New Year, New Me" very popular saying, and oh don't worry that's not what this blog is about!

I'm entering 2019 with greater expectations. Quite different than previous years. I have decided to focus more on Jesus. What I mean by that is when looking at things in retrospect, I am reminded of the way I viewed my relationship with Jesus. If I could be quite honest with you , I must say that I took my relationship with Jesus or my walk with Christ for granted. Publically it did not appear that way but privately my commitment to prayer and fasting declined significantly. Towards the end of 2018, I began to ask myself, "what happen and how did I get to this point?" After doing an extensive self examination, I realized that I became comfortable in my relationship;  I was born again, forgiven and I'm going to heaven. Unknowing to me at that time, I became very lukewarm and insensitive to the Spirit of God. I also began to look at the worldview differently - not embracing sin - but rather allowing the worldview, or the media agenda to override that of God's holy word. This began to spill over into reading and studying God's word. Eventually, I laid down my arsenal (God's word, prayer and fasting) which gave the enemy of our soul ( the devil and his imps) free reign. I loss my fight or should I say my "swag" My desire to pray even dwindled. Praise be to God for the light of my concscious  being awaken. What caused the light to come on? I would say two scriptures; the first scripture is 2 Corinthians 5:17 which states, "If any man be in Christ he is a new creation; old things are past away, behold all things have become new" and also, "No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God" (1 John 3:9). What caused the light to be made manifest? What caused it was the fact that I'm a new creation. Knowing that and understanding Christ power causes one to look within and come into alignment with God's word, "If any man" that's me, you and the man sitting next to the man. Have you ever felt out of place while in a place you did not belong? That's sort of what it feels like when you are a child of God and you are out of fellowship with Him. Not out of fellowship because God neglects us, but rather by our own conscious decision to put Christ second instead of first. Its hard to admit when we get to this place; but its quite evident when we begin to compromise or attempt to fit into this worlds system. When we find ourselves going back to things that God has delivered us from is in and of itself a sign that we need to conduct a self examination. What "Day 1" revealed to me is to "stay hot" or to keep Christ first in all areas of my life because as soon as we lay down our arsenal (studying God's word, prayer and fasting) we take two steps back which ultimately results in us becoming stagnant, unproductive and lukewarm. We have to remember the Lord's word - "If any man be in Christ he is a new creation; old things have passed away, behold all things have become new." He makes all things new. Stay hot!

Go forth and do more!

The Resurrection and The Life

....Last night I arose from my bed and I decided to pray....
After I was done I opened my eyes and there stood a cross before me.
I rubbed my eyes and fell to my knees to assure myself that it wasn't a dream.
I looked again and there was a man upon the tree....
There were nails in his hands and nails in his feet, at this sight I could not believe!
There was a crown of thrones upon his head and from this his face did bleed.
I begged and pleaded for someone to help, but no one heard my plea.
I attempted to stand to my feet, but there was no strength in me.
I began to cry, I began to weep.........
I couldn't believe how deep the nails were in his hands and feet.
He turned his face and looked at me - and my heartrate did increase....
I fell to my face when he looked at me --

Because his eyes were like fire burning deep within me.
When I looked up again no one was upon the tree.....
I looked for him frantically, but it was only the cross I could see.
I became sad, I became blue, because there was no hope in me.
I rose to my knees and shouted: "Oh woe is me!"
As I proceeded to get off knees, someone laid their hands on me
I turned around and it was he that was upon the tree!
He wiped the tears from my eyes and began to speak:
"What you saw was not a dream but "reality"
Look at my hands look at my feet, the nail prints you can see."
He had on a beautiful white robe and upon his head was a golden crown;
This alone turned my frown into a smile!
He went on to say: "Tell everyone what you have seen...
Let them know that through my death, burial and resurrection they have been redeemed.
Abide in me and I will abide in you - Eternal life I now give unto you"
Jesus is the way the truth and the life....
Do I believe he did this for you too, absolutely!
...And this to me my friend is "reality"

...Dark Room

One of the most difficult things to endure is development and process. It sounds quite easy, however in order to ascend to higher heights we have to endure valley experiences or the dark room as I like to call it. When I think about a "dark room" the first thing that comes to my mind is picture development. One of the challenges of development in the darkroom is that you can’t see the changes happening. You are only relying on your experience and intuition. Today things are done much faster with Photoshop...this gets it done a lot sooner, however there is something about watching, waiting and seeing the development of the photograph.

When I pondered this thought...life came to mind and the challenges we often face. We desire people to change the moment we begin to pray for them...it may not happen that way - we desire the job shortly after we apply for it....it may not happen that way, we desire the house - as soon as we sit down with the relator....it may not happen that way - we desire for our son's or daughter's to be delivered as soon as we pray for them....it may not happen that way - we make our request known to God on Monday and expect the answer on Saturday....it may not happen that way. God is more concerned with our development and growth opposed to giving us what we want when we want it. I love the scripture: "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31). Also, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything with prayer and supplication and thanksgiving; let your request be made known to God and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7). And lastly, "Let patients have its perfect work in you so that you will be mature and lacking nothing" (James 1:4) .

When you find yourself in a "dark room" its not about throwing in the towel, its about enduring until the end. You are in "wait training" and the key is to allow the stretching to happen, allow the breaking to happen...it doesn't feel good, but God has an amazing way of making all things work together for our good (Romans 8:28).

...Grace Period

One day a call center representative received an escalated call from a customer; the customer was puzzled to find out that his policy that he so feverishly went about obtaining had come to an abrupt end. "How could this be?" the customer asked. Politely, the customer service representative advise the customer that there was nothing that he could do. The representative went on to remind the customer, "Sir, you were under the grace period, we gave you an ample amount of time to make the wrong right." The customer,  deeply concerned, went on to say, "But what about my consistency prior to this? I was faithful! You know, January, April, July, I thought I was doing everything right." It was at this time that the customer service representative became very empathetic; Yes you are absolutely correct, I can see that you were consistent, however its about now, today, current date." The customer stated, I never received any communication that I no longer was covered, is it written?" The representative stated, "yes it is written, as a matter of fact, let me read the letter to you." The representative went on to read the letter verbatim to the customer. The customer became silent for about 10 seconds. Shortly thereafter the customer began to blame other people for providing him with information contrary to what was written in the letter informing him that he was under the grace period. Unfortunately for the customer there was nothing documented that indicating that he was provided inaccurate information. In essence the customer took for granted being under grace.

After hearing this story I was reminded of God's amazing grace that has been extended to all humanity. My, my, my how amazing is God's grace! What is grace you ask, its unmerited favor, that you and I do not deserve. When we're under grace, we should be cut off, but grace will not allow it to be so. What Jesus did on the cross catapulted humanity into a position to be recipients of God's amazing grace. Unfortunately, like the customer so many people take the grace of God for granted. We often skate through life nonchalantly not considering the fact that our life upon the earth is but a vapor! We too have been given a letter so to speak to remind us of God's grace and the decision that we have to make before our final exit from life as we know it into eternity. Obviously we do not have to send God payments to stay in grace or out of grace, God's grace is free. As I mentioned before we do not deserve God's grace! But in order for us to spend eternity with Him, we have to comply with the letter or in our case, God's word (the bible). The customer ignored all the signs, as a matter of fact he never read the letter; that is why when he was confronted with the truth he continued to make excuses instead of taking ownership for his own actions. The customer never called to speak to anyone. We do the same thing to God; we turn our backs on him, we don't talk to Him consistently, we don't read His word, but He still loves us and is quick to forgive. But we have to embrace His grace, not trample it under our feet. Unlike the customer who knew specifically when the grace period ended, we do not know the day nor the hour when "grace ends" or when Jesus returns.

I look at everything that is going on around the world today and it is as if we are on fast forward, quickly coming to the end. I don't know if you are a believer in Jesus Christ that is out of fellowship with Him or a non-believer that doesn't know Him in the pardon of your sin. What I do know is that time is winding up and we have to make sure that we are familiarizing ourselves with the letter that was sent to us thousands of year ago called the bible. To the believer that confuses religion with relationship, please, please don't be associated with those that will hear Jesus say, "Not everyone that says to me, Lord, Lord will enter into the kingdom of heaven or "Depart from me, I never knew you." (Matthew 7: 21-23). To the non-believer there's still room at the cross for you (Romans 10:9; John 3:16). You're under a grace period...while you have time, choose Christ for your life!

...Parenthood

...have you ever observed your son or daughter while they slept?  ~ how grand, how awesome, how blessed... my baby graciously trusts me to continue the flow...by holding the bottle steady you know....perhaps it was their mother's breast that kept them at ease...the trust that our children have in us as parents brings me to my knees ~ I'm humbled to have the opportunity to raise someone until adulthood; what a task and my how fast is that task...that is given to you and me for but a short time/from bottles to sippy cups and spilled milk, no worries daddy or mommy will wipe it up....holding hands in Disneyland to our child becoming our number one fan....just by being who we are...no cape or boots required just quality time and being on time with the snacks...oh and maybe watching a cartoon or two...its nothing like hearing your child tell you, "I love you" ~ Parenthood, often misunderstood...but its all good because its parenthood...and it can't be compared to anything on this side of heaven...can't believe my baby is now eleven...now its school buses and being on time for school...and signing multiple papers in regards to school rules...then comes summer and swimming pools...that's when you realize how much your children respect you...no looking back just continue to lead...no more bottles...you have growing kids to feed. So we encourage them and continue to provide direction...and we always remind them that we are here to pray and protect....we cover them from a spiritual standpoint...now its time to prepare for college...and with all that you've done...you know he or she has the knowledge...to take it to the next level...pursuing their bachelors with no hesitation..this is when you really feel the degrees of separation...but its cool, we will make it through this...what, what is this...wedding bliss? Now my baby is about to tie the knot...seems like yesterday when I was taking the pacifier out of her mouth...well it'll be ok, I trust he's the one...wonder if I should purchase a gun? No, no I just have to let go...this is their time...our time together was sublime...what, she's expecting a child, my oh my, my baby will be the mother of a child? This is surreal, but I can't express my pleasure in seeing her smile as she supplies her child with a sip...from the bottle, the way I once did her...now I can just kick back, watch and observe. I love where we are and how things have progressed, praise be to God my family is blessed!

Trees, Leaves and Branches

....just sitting on my back porch wondering just how it could be...how a seed becomes a tree, becomes leaf, becomes branch on the tree. It's actually phenomenal if you give it some thought....how a seed becomes a tree. The conditions are not the best when the journey begins...placed in the ground...with layers of dirt all around him. No one knows it's whereabouts...everyone use to talk about him, but now there are no words in their mouths. Obscurity is the seeds new best friend...no Facebook friends or Twitter retweets for him. Just seasons of no recognition....if it gives up now, no one would remember him. The struggle is real when you're goingthrough process...not to mention seasons:winter, spring, summer, fall and winter again ~ I digress: but the seed dies. Not itself, rather his will or better yet, it's outer case...a sprout springs forth...now it sees the light of day. Just when everybody thought the seed wouldn't make it through, it stands tall and provides shade for me and you. Can you imagine if it had given up...the birds that were destined to place nests in him would have given up. You see they would've thought that giving up was the only alternative, no hope day to day with no words to say...but because of the trees faith, it showed mother bird the way. I said that to say this....whatever you do, don't quit!

......Filthy Rags

It's  the 4th Quarter, the ball is on the one (1) yard line with :02 seconds on the clock. You call a time out to go over the play that you have went over time and time again in practice. Your opposition knows you are going to get the ball so they send in extra defense of lineman to stuff the holes; to make sure that you have no way of getting in. Aware of the strategy of your opponent your team decides to fake the ball to you and have you go out for a quick pass. Focused on stuffing the holes in the line, the defense overlooks you in the end zone all alone. Your quarterback doesn't though; he tosses you the ball, all the fans stand to their feet, the players on each side line watch in silence, the ball comes right to you and just like that you drop the pass. Game Over! The other team rejoices. You sink to your knees in disbelief, the crowd and your teammates gasp as the clock reflects 00:00 on the scoreboard for all to see. Teammates come to your side to give you a hand, but you decline, you just want to sit there. Everyone has vacated the field and return to the locker rooms, but you're still there, trying to figure out how can I drop the ball after  practicing that very same throw, that very same route hundreds of times. Often times in life we miss the mark. Even after knowing all that Jesus did for us, we drop the ball. The most simplest thing, the thing we know we shouldn't do, the very thing He delivered us from, we find ourselves right back in the miry clay. We hate the sin, but deep in our soul we have become infatuated with the sensation or gratification that we get out of the wrong that we've convince ourselves is right. How do we break free. Do we continue in sin because we know that we are forgiven? Do we wait to do that which God has called us away from and shortly thereafter say "I'm sorry Lord" when subconsciously we actually love the mud, the dirt, the miry clay? Certainly not! As a matter of fact, "He became sin who knew no sin that we might be made the righteousness of God In Christ Jesus" (II Corinthians 5:21). On top of that, "I have been crucified with Christ, its no longer I that live but its Christ that lives in me; the life that I now live in the body I live by faith through the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). We shouldn't go back to what God has already declared us free from. :For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life" (Romans 6:23).  My sin no longer has dominion over me. #believerinChrist

The Effects of Music

Imagine if you will that your mattress was your brain and the frame of the bed was your skull...sounds weird? Well remember, we're imagining; so your brain is the mattress and the bed frame is your skull. Now lets bring music into the equation; the music will be the bed spread, sheets and the pillow case. Oh, I forgot the pillow....let's make the pillow your memory. Now lets run through it quickly: your brain is the mattress, the frame is your skull, the pillow is your memory while the comforter, sheets and pillow cases represent music. From the start we all understand that we do not need sheets, pillow cases or comforter to go to sleep. We have been conditioned over the years that we can not get a good night rest with out them. The truth of the matter is we actually can, but to be quite honest its hard to imagine sleeping peacefully without them. Now back to the topic of discussion...music impacts or influences our mind. Music is like that comforter, sheet and pillow case. It has a way of surronding itself around us and brining us comfort. Music is like a canvass with the picture already painted. Its intensity speaks without speaking, its colors scream without yelling. Like this painting on the canvass, so is music when it gets into our mind. Music ministers to our spirit and after we wrap ourselves in it we become one with the rhythm, the lyrics wrap themselves around our mind like a headband and it becomes injected into our memory like a sedative that relaxes every fiber of ones being. Music listeners become one with the music, so much so that they can hear the songs replaying in their minds while at work. What's interesting is the music that I once played through an electrical device is now silent...so how then am I hearing it replaying in my mind? True it is embedded in our memory, but I submit to you that its deeper than that. The music has gotten into our spirit. There is some truth to what Gloria Estevan said in her song titled, "The Rhythm is Going To Get You." Here's the interesting part you become what you say. What I mean by that is that eventually what you listen to (music specifically) 

will eventually be sung or uttered by you. It will become your words. Music has a way of invoking the image or intent of the writer into our minds. It no longer becomes the writers intent, it becomes our idea. We think about what we're thinking about. Once we cross that threshold we become more like what we have sung or uttered out of our own mouths. Music even has the potential to generate a false reality. I have seen several interviews of rap artist that state, they do not live what they rap. Frustrated over the false reality, it will then set in and ultimately the person or persons that is engulfed into the writers intent will try with all his or her might to bring the fictional portion into their reality. Music causes attitude shifts as well. For the Christian, the wrong music has the ability to block or hinder our prayer life. How so? When we try to worship or have prayer in our prayer closet, we're calling on the name of the Lord and back in the corner of our minds we here "All Eyes On Me" by Tupac. I am not bashing Tupac, but what I am saying is  music can be and will be used by satan to distract us when trying to pray or worship. I often say what you put in is what will come out and often at the wrong time. One day I prayed and asked God about secular music and if its ok for me to listen to. Now before I tell you what He revealed to me let me just say that this is the type of relationship I have with Jesus. I ask Him what He thinks. Not only is He my savior, He's the Lord of my life. I have learned over the years that if you ask God, He will speak. After asking God the question about secular music here's what He revealed to me, "If it does not glorify my name, don't listen to it." Music is powerful....think about it before you let the sound and lyrics of music minister to your soul!

Asking and Telling

The other day I was watching television and I noticed that our 12 year old was up passed her bedtime listening to music, reading and on the computer (all at the same time). I got up from where I was, went to her and reminded her of her bedtime. After giving her the reminder I was surprised at her response. "Daddy, I'm reading, not on the computer." Struggling to understand her response, I became upset and said, young lady, turn off the music, turn off the computer, put the book away and good night." She did as I asked and headed to her bedroom. Shortly thereafter she walked to the kitchen to get a drink of water. I asked her to come over. She wasn't exactly the happiest person; she sat by me and I asked, "Why are you upset?" She said, "Daddy I wasn't on the computer, I was actually reading, I like listening to music when I read, it makes it easier." I hugged my daughter, kissed her on the forehead and said, "If you had asked me if it was ok to stay up beyond your bedtime, I would have allowed you to. Instead you began to tell me what you were doing and what you would continue to do. If you had only asked, my response would have been different." We embraced again, she smiled and returned to her bedroom. Later that evening I was taking a shower and I got a revelation from my interaction with my daughter. I realized that in the relationship I have with Jesus, I do to Him what my daughter did to me. I began to realize my error in prayer and fasting as well as overall obedience to God. I thought about a scripture, "If you ask anything in my name, I will do it" (John 14:14). I realized that I never really asked God for things, instead I have been telling God what I am going to do. Have you ever done that? We often tell God what we're going to do, then ask Him to bless our plan. Sadly, we treat God as if He was a genie in a bottle that must grant us three wishes. When we do this we create a level of frustration ~ it becomes about our agenda and what we want, when we want and how we want it. Asking changes or shifts the atmosphere and places God on the throne of our hearts and places us in the position of servant. Our dependence should be in Him....He alone is God, and is ready and willing to help...for the Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in lack! God is our source and everything else is but a resource....its not about telling God what we are going to do and demanding him to do something about it, but rather asking Him, stepping aside and watching Him do exceedingly, abudantly, far above what we ask or think!

.....trusting God is not like playing checkers

When I was a child I loved to play checkers. My most fierce competition was my brother Andrew. Those Saturday mornings were serious...best 2 out of 3...no, no best 3 out of 4! The competition was intense! I use to love to make the  first move...still don't know why I felt like that gave me the advantage...but nevertheless I had to...so its game time and we stare at the board often times staying in that decisive mode for 5 to 10 minutes! Playing checkers was all about me...oh and you better not try to voice your opinion or thoughts on what my next move should be..."I got this" is what I would proclaim to you. Checker players need their space and need to think independently in order to become successful. Outside influences, while in the game, are not helpful nor is it recommended if you want to be better, bigger and boisterous! So how do I tie God into all of this and how is hearing him and listening to him compare to a simple checker game? Well unlike checkers...pursuing God seeking His wisdom is not a one sided affair...His word says, "If any man lacks wisdom let him ask God who gives to men generously without finding fault and it will be given to you" (James 1:5). When walking with God we see as well that the way up is down and what I mean by that is, "Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God and He will exalt you" ( James 4:10). Checkers requires only you: your intellect, your wisdom, your insight so to speak...when you interpret that you get: I, I, I, Me, Me, Me....which equates to a prideful outlook on things.  We know clearly that, "Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18). One thing that I noticed about checkers (and I hope you have too) is the fact that they do not speak neither do they have the capability to speak. While walking with God you soon discover that He speaks. Not only does He speak He will direct your path, when you trust in Him with all your heart (Proverbs 3:5). Over time I have learned how to hear Him when He speaks and follow His lead. I must admit that I struggled to understand how to follow His lead. After learning how to hear His voice, I would take it and run with it without actually praying  before I attempted to describe what I believed He meant when He spoke. It's not that its difficult its a matter of breaking away from being in control or better yet doing it my way. When I played checkers against my brother Andrew I didn't seek God's council (didn't need to) I made my own decisions and my own moves. Often times in life we pray earnestly and are certain we feel that God is leading us in a certain direction. In spite of the clarity we receive in the spirit, we move contrary to what was revealed. God may be leading you to leave your city or a particular job, etc. Without seeking Him more one may assume that "I have to leave tomorrow" when that may not be the case. Seek God when you hear Him, when you desire to know more. God is a speaking God and where He leads He guides and where He guides He provides. When God spoke to Abraham, "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you" (Genesis 12:1). Abraham was "looking for a city whose builder and maker was God" (Hebrews 11:10). Trusting God is not like playing  checkers....but I encourage you to trust Him when you can't trace Him...know that your life is in His hands. Let Him take the wheel, it's a lot easier riding in the backseat.

Faith...Like a Mustard Seed

We all know that a lot is better than a little bit...but what about when it comes to our faith? Now it is important for us to increase our faith and that does happen as we continue to grow in grace and in our relationship with Christ Jesus. So what is faith? Webster and Dictionary.com has their meaning but I would rather refer to scripture or God's word. According to scripture "faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). I can remember when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I struggled with believing  things without seeing them first. I guess you can say I was sort of like Thomas. Who was Thomas you ask? Well he was one of the disciples that was not present when Jesus manifested himself to the other 10 disciples after His resurrection (Judas had hug himself after betraying Jesus). The other 10 told Thomas that they had seen the Lord...Thomas' response? "Unless I see Him...unless I see the nail prints and put my finger in them, unless I see his side where they pierced Him and put my hand there, I will not believe." What was Jesus' response? A week later the disciples were in the house and this time Thomas was with them and Jesus manifested again. Jesus told him to place his finger in the nail prints and told him to stretch out his hand and touch where they pierced him in His side. Thomas' response? "My Lord and My God." Jesus then said, "Thomas because you have seen me you believe, but blessed are those that believe and have not yet seen." Before faith settles there is doubt and speculation. Even if we are heralds' of  faith, there will be those that won't believe. One of the most amazing things I have ever heard about or read is what a father told Jesus after bringing his son to Him. The man desired for his son to be healed. Jesus asked if he believed, the man answered, "Lord I believe, but help my unbelief." (Mark 9:23-25). That was a profound statement. Nevertheless, I always wondered, what if I struggle with believing?

What if our faith is not great like those that actually saw Jesus or like those that may have had
 some amazing experience during our day and age? Well I found comfort in "faith like a mustard seed." Jesus put it like this, "He replied, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you (Luke 17:6). Jesus also said, "Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them (Mark 11:23). The key is not having doubt. It's not easy at first, but as we grow in grace and in our relationship with Jesus it becomes apart of us....Lastly, I have a question for you...have you ever seen a mustard seed? It can fit in the center of your hand...it's very small. It doesn't take a lot but it does require for us  to eradicate doubt; for first we must believe that God exists and that He is a rewarded of those that diligently seek Him.

A.G. Wells

Side Effects: Hurting People, Hurt People at Georgia Regents University!

Side Effects: Hurting People, Hurt People at Georgia Regents University!

What if God Were in a Bottle?

What if God were in a bottle - and you could purchase Him for $1....inserting four quarters in a machine, take a sip and wipe your lip...would you want to finish it? Just place it in the fridge and call it a day...there is really nothing else to say ~ What if Jesus were in a bottle...would you seek him out? Would you partake of the beverage or just pour it out? What if the Holy Spirit was chilled and strategically placed next to the Budweiser? Would you choose the Spirit of Christ or the latter? I said that to say this...and no this is not something you add to your playlist...nowadays the things we choose often come with a price tag...good marketing and advertising is what makes us glad....and pushes us to make a decision quick and fast....without second guessing our decision even if it was bad....but there is a decision that you and I have to make that doesn't cost a thing...this one comes with no attachments or strings...our decision is sort of like a noun which touches on three things: *person, place and things* The person is "You" the place,  Heaven or Hell" and the thing is "Eternity"  - There is a message in the bottle and it reads: *Break the bottle and let God out...don't compartmentalize Him...receive His love, accept His only begotten Son, Jesus as your Lord & Savior.

#chooseChrist4yourLife