WORKMANSHIP

Work*man*ship -noun
1. the art or skill of a workman or workwoman.
2. the quality or mode of execution, as of a thing made.
3. the product or result of labor and skill; work executed.

Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

God took time to specially craft and save us by his grace. You are not an accident, and God says so. He did not save you because of who you are or because of anything you have said or done. He has a perfect plan and purpose for your life, and you can rest assured on the fact that he created and designed you (workmanship) to carry it out. Do not be discouraged when you make mistakes or fall short of what you feel is your full potential. Every single lie that the enemy has told you, or setback that you've encountered is known by God. In fact, he knew about it before you did. Has it ever occurred to you that God has NEVER ever been surprised!? He looked beyond all of those things and still chose you. He knew what he was getting when he called you. And he carefully created you to withstand all of those things, and do the works for which he prepared in advance for you to do.

Prodigal Son

Greetings! Once again I had a life-changing encounter with the holy spirit last night. I was actually listening to the song "Prodigal Son" by Fred Hammond. There is a line in the song that says,
"Each day I return to the place where you departed. Saying, maybe today my lost one will come."
This is from the perspective of the Father waiting for the son to return. It blessed me so much because it made me realize the amount of love the father felt in his heart for his son. Imagine him going and waiting at the same place, day after day, waiting for his son-the son that took his inheritance and turned his back on family. The father had hope each day that it would be the day his most beloved son would return and make his home complete. THAT'S LOVE.
It is hard for us to grasp the love of God. The Apostle Paul says in Ephesians that it is a wide, long, high, and deep love that surpasses knowledge. We, as human beings, may never be able to fully understand that love. I know we all search for love sometimes in the wrong places, but the love of God is the only true and real love. It will stand the test of time, and no matter how many times we selfishly turn our back on God, he is always there, waiting with open arms to take us back, and appoint us.

Luke 15:20 So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

The father did not wait for his son to make it all the way. As soon as he spotted him, he ran to him out of compassion and embraced him. It is true, the closer we get to God, the closer he gets to us. He will meet you at the point of your need, and does not wait for you to make it all the way to him. Always remember you are the apple of his eye. This is hard to comprehend because we all figure that God has so many other things to focus on. But really- he knows you. Every little thing about you he wants to be a part of. We often think of God as being so powerful that nothing can hurt him, but God has the potential of being hurt. He can be sensitive, and deeply longs for a relationship with us. Not for his benefit- but ours. So he does wait patiently for us to return to him. And when we do- we get the same treatment as the prodigal son. Feasts, favor and best of all the embrace of someone who truly loves us.

Power of Love

Romans 8:37 (NIV) In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

Please grasp the following concept revealed to me this morning by the holy spirit:
The power we have as conquerors (triumphant winners over all) is made possible through LOVE and LOVE and LOVE.

Affirmative statement: I am made more than victorious through the Love of Christ. The power I have is within his love.

~The love of God is enough to cause you to win~

In my spirit (heavy) this week...

Ephesians 3:20-21 (Amp) Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]. To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it).

Isaiah 30:18 (Amp)
And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts himself up, that he may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who [earnestly] wait for him, who expect and look and long for him [for his victory, his favor, his love, his peace, his joy, and his matchless, unbroken companionship]!

Lamentations 3:25 (Amp)
The Lord is good to those who wait hopefully and expectantly for him, to those who seek him [inquire of and for Him and require him by right of necessity and on the authority of God’s word].

Psalm 62:5-6 (Amp) My soul, wait only upon God and silently submit to him; for my hope and expectation are from him. He is my rock and my Salvation; He is my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be moved.

Romans 10:10 (Amp) For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (Amp) Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.

Justice League

The Justice League, also called the Justice League of America, is a superhero team that appears in comic books. The team includes Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Black Canary, Aquaman and others. Their main purpose is to provide justice for those who have been mistreated, and cannot well represent themselves.

The Justice League, of course, is fictional. But even in real life, we operate under the same philosophy. Many people spend money on high priced lawyers to make sure they are fairly and justly treated when going to trial. Others rely on family or friends to "have their back" and make sure they are never mistreated, or are on the losing side of a battle. We rely on government, law enforcement, and different forms of leadership to be the voice for those who don't always feel like they have one. We all believe that at some point either our money, education, titles, jobs, family, associations, etc. will justify us in some capacity.

Romans 8:30 (NIV) And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

However, God has already justified us. Is is not our responsibility to make sure that "justice is served" in the way that we see fit. If a life situation has treated you in a way that you feel to be unfair, know that God has already made a way for justice in your life. Don't waste time waiting for someone to ask for your forgiveness, or make things right with you. Don't concentrate on how things look to the natural eye. God is the great justifier! Through him you have already received your justice. You don't have to prove that to anyone. The bible says that God is the King of Glory. That surpasses the law of the land. Any judge, any law, any decree; every situation comes under his name.

Isaiah 30:18 (NIV) Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him.

Romans 10:10 (NIV) For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.

JUSTICE IS SERVED

Facing the Giants Wholeheartedly

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 (KJV)

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
Romans 3:22 (NIV)
Affirmative statement: I am the righteousness of God through Jesus Christ.

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)

He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. Proverbs 13:20 (KJV)

But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)

Peace

I feel a strong impression to share the tremendous level of peace I have been feeling in my spirit lately. There is no better place to be than in right standing with God. When you make the decision to let go and let GOD, you are showing him how much you truly trust him. Surrendering to him will allow his mighty hand to move in your life. One of the first signs of being in God's will is a feeling of peace. Knowing that you are living a life that is pleasing to God allows him to shine in your life, in more areas than one (and believe me, people notice!). Ephesians 4:30 tells us not to grieve the holy spirit. Grieving the holy spirit includes doing things that we know we should not do. By doing this, we cause the spirit of God that is within us grief. Disobedience to God (the Holy Spirit) breaks God's heart. I have made the decision lately to do my best not to grieve the holy spirit, and be obedient to God's still, gentle voice on the inside of me. I long to be faithful to him. I am addicted to peace. A simple rule to follow: FOLLOW PEACE

I am so grateful for the place I'm at right now, as I recently celebrated my 30th birthday. I'm not going to say it was easy to let go of my 20's (I have some GREAT memories), but I honestly feel like I am stepping into my own at this point in my life. I know who I am. I know what/who I am rooted and grounded in. I have identified and am living in my purpose. I have had enough failures and successes to make better choices and be more responsible. I am elevated..and it feels good.

I am so thankful to my heavenly father who has:
-Carried me through every mountain and every valley (sometimes while I was kicking and screaming).
-Held my face up when I was too ashamed and hurt to even look myself in the face.
-Nudged me out of my comfort zone in order to stretch me (which leads to growth).
-Saw the best in me when everyone else saw the worst in me (because he created me in his likeness, and he KNOWS what's on the inside of me).
-Provided for me before the world was framed (Gave me my family and a spiritually rich heritage- for which I was created).

I stand in Awe of you! And I am forever grateful :)

PEACE~

RECEIVE

"One moment of God's grace will do more for you than a lifetime of your own labor"

We spend a lot of time throughout our lives trying to earn the favor and grace of God. While it is our responsibility to be faithful and righteous over the things God gives us, it is impossible for us to earn his grace. God gives it to us because he LOVES us (a whole lot) and he DESIRES to bless our lives. That's it. The love of God is very hard to understand, but he loves us enough to do things for us that we clearly do not deserve. Take time every day during your prayer time to say to God:
-I RECEIVE your grace
-I RECEIVE your mercy
-I RECEIVE your favor
-I RECEIVE your forgiveness

Stop spending so much time asking God for things, or feeling like you've got to prove yourself to God because you've messed up so many times in the past. Realize that he has already given you grace to make it through whatever situation you may find yourself in, and has made provision for you to have the desires of your heart if you continue to abide in him. Speak into existence your acceptance and receipt of the things that will allow God to move in your life (His grace, his mercy, his favor). It pleases God when we let him know that we trust him enough to receive the things he's provided for us, and we trust him enough to get out of the way in order for him to MOVE! Remember, God is a gentleman. He does not force himself on anyone. We must accept him and surrender all to him.

Isaiah 30:18 (Amp)
And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts himself up, that he may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who [earnestly] wait for him, who expect and look and long for him [for his victory, his favor, his love, his peace, his joy, and his matchless, unbroken companionship]!

Joyce Meyer's- Guard your Heart Synergy Edition

I am so excited about this teaching, as it has helped me grow in the area of knowing how to spiritually heal and take care of my heart. I am so thankful that God is moving through the teaching of Joyce Meyer.



Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

By effectively guarding your heart, you are preparing yourself for all the incredible opportunities God has for you. In this three-part teaching, Joyce will show you how to:
-Guard your heart
-Have a heart that gives life to others
-Live with a heart ready for God to work through

Synergy combines three types of learning into one package:

Listen to Joyce's audio teachings
Watch a video message of Joyce
Read more in depth with her personal teaching notes

Rest for the Weary

Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) "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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

When you are carrying a load in your spirit, soul, and mind that is almost too much to bear- please take it to the Lord. The definition of a Yoke- a device for joining together a pair of draft animals, especially oxen, usually consisting of a crosspiece with two bow shaped pieces, each enclosing the head of an animal. The two oxen in the picture above are bound by a yoke.
God wants us to be joined with him, so that he can teach us, and we can learn from him by copying his movement. I don't know about you, but throughout grade school, I was always glad when I got good (nice) teachers. Something about an instructor who has humility, and knows how to bring out the best in you with a gentle and gracious spirit pushes you to do your best. God is that type of leader. His yoke is easy. He will be that "nice" teacher who is not harsh with you. His burden is light. Once we identify God's way of doing things, and put them into practice, we will come to understand that we do not have to be moved by burdens.

Rebuild Remix by J Moss

My New Favorite Song. Allow it to minister to you.

Dealing with Shame

Isaiah 61:7 (NIV) Instead of their shame, my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs.

Shame is one of the most crippling emotions there is. When something has been done to you that has humiliated you, you feel helpless, ashamed and embarrassed. It's hard to move on from such feelings. Finding a sense of self worth, value and dignity is a process that a lot of people never fully undergo. God has promised us that we, as his people, are entitled to a double portion of our inheritance. Because of the shame we have suffered, he has promised us DOUBLE of everything he is already planning to give us. Start seeing yourself through the eyes of God. What happened to you does not define you. It qualifies you for double. Take what you learned from your situation and use it to enrich someone else's life with the Power of God. God has big plans for you, and instead of shame, God has given you matchless power and endless benefits!

Feeling like a LOSER?

How many times have you felt like you were on the losing side of a battle? It could be a battle with an enemy, an opponent, a friend, or even yourself. Remember that although it may appear as though you have suffered a loss or a defeat, the greater one is inside of you. So on the surface you may have lost, but on the inside God is doing a work in you that will ultimately make you a winner. The greater one will always come out victorious in the end. Remember, we battle against principalities, so anything that ever happens to you that makes you feel defeated is a scheme of the satan (not necessarily a reflection of the person or situation that defeated you). We have assurance through God's word that we are GREATER than him! How comforting it is to know that we ARE and FOREVER WILL BE WINNERS!

I John 4:4 (NIV) You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

How many things in life are free?

We grew up on the statement "The best things in life are free". This phrase is coined on the premise that Love is free and indubitable. Perhaps the love of your parents, spouse, or children is love that you have assurance of, and makes you appreciate the generous benefits of unconditional affection, appreciation and security. However, that is not the case for everyone. Not everyone can count on love from their parents, spouse, or even children. That is not a reality for a lot of people.

Salvation from God is the only thing in life that is free. This is an unmerited and underserved favor from God that promises eternal life. Many people live under the misconception that if you anger or disobey God, you lose your salvation. God is gracious enough to forgive our sins by our confession. Jesus paid the price for your FREE pass to eternal life- a life of ABUNDANCE, at that. What we owe to God could never be repaid. The wonderful "saved" lives that we live are compliments of Christ the King himself. Remember that only what you do for Christ will last.

Return on Investment

In finance, return on investment (ROI) is the ratio of money gained or lost (whether realized or unrealized) on an investment relative to the amount of money invested. The amount of money gained or lost may be referred to as interest, profit/loss, gain/loss, or net income/loss. The money invested may be referred to as the asset, capital, principal, or the cost basis of the investment. ROI is usually expressed as a percentage rather than a fraction.

While in church yesterday, my Pastor said something that stuck with me. "God wants a return on his investment!" This was deeply profound to me, because I know how much investors look forward to a return. If you think about it, we are constantly investing in things that matter to us. Paying for school, buying homes, saving for vacations/retirement. Those are all investments, and our hope is that we get out of them at least what we put into them, but preferably more. Look at all that God has invested in you. Many of the things he gave you he did not give to everyone. Those are individualities that we can use to his glory. Give him a return on his investment and use your talents to glorify him!

Know your role- You're not level with God.

Job 9:32-35 "He is not a man like me that I might answer him, that we might confront each other in court. If only there were someone to arbitrate between us, to lay his hand upon us both, someone to remove God's rod from me, so that his terror would frighten me no more. Then I would speak up without fear of him, but as it now stands with me, I cannot."

Fear, obey, and trust GOD. Sometimes he answers our questions (the why's), and sometimes he doesn't. We've all been in positions that seem unfair and cause us to question the purpose of our position. But- God does not owe us an explanation that meets our standards. There us no mediator, no arbitrator between us and God. We cannot make him treat us the way we see fair. It is our job to fear him. It is his responsibility to lead and provide.

Wait Before the Lord

A Psalm for those who constantly find themselves in waiting:

Psalm 62:5-6 (Amp)"My soul, wait only upon God and silently submit to him; for my hope and expectation are from him. He is my rock and my Salvation; He is my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be moved."

The above is just a reminder to wait patiently before the Lord. Submit to him and do not be moved by your surroundings. Our hope and expectation are from him- this means that the wonderful wish list you've whipped up for whatever you're waiting on was inspired by God. God placed those desires in our hearts. He is the rock on which we should stand, he is our fortress in times of distress and confusion. He desires to bless us, but first we must silently submit to him. That means letting him take complete control instead of finding a way ourselves, or for that matter even trying to mentally figure out how we can make it work. That is all on God. Always remember that he is in control.

Purpose by Design

I was recently tagged in this picture by a friend on Facebook. I'm sure it's not hard to find me ;-) This had to be around 1988. It's funny to look at my facial expression and wonder what I was thinking. It just proves how much time can change things, but also keep them the same. 22 years ago I had a purpose, and was being led, guided, and protected by the holy spirit. Unbeknownst to me, God was preparing me for this moment. The moment in time where my harvest was going to make it's debut. I am thankful for all of the sunshine, all of the rain. The joy, the pain, the blood, sweat, and tears (oh so many tears) that allowed me to make it to this moment. God is awesome and his creative power is MATCHLESS!

"So now I serve him who brought me and is able to keep me together in the presence of his glory. I find that for my life his good and perfect purpose was designed to bring me to the place where he has need for me." -Fred Hammond, Purpose by Design

David and Goliath

I Just read the entire story of David and Goliath in the bible. This story has touched me in ways I could not imagine. Goliath, a champion Philistine giant, challenged all of the Israelites in an effort to subject them to servitude. Out of all of the Israelites, David, a young boy who looked after his father's sheep, volunteered to battle him. David had encountered bears and lions while watching sheep herds, and was confident that the hand of the Lord had saved him from them all. This was enough to assure David that the Lord would deliver him from ANYONE who challenged his people. I would encourage you to read the entire chapter of I Samuel 17 and get into the mind frame of David. The mind that has all confidence and trust that the Lord will fight every one of your battles, and provide victory for his chosen people. Pay attention to how David spoke his enemy's defeat into existence, detailing what his plan of defeat <--- all to the Glory of God. Sometimes you have to SPEAK to your challenges and let them know that you are victorious, that you claim victory and triumph over everything that sets itself up against you.

I Samuel 17:41-47 41 "Meanwhile, the Philistine (Goliath), with his shield bearer in front of him, kept coming closer to David. He looked David over and saw that he was only a boy, ruddy and handsome, and he despised him. He said to David, "Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?" And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. "Come here," he said, "and I'll give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!"

David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands."

My heart is heavy.

Psalm 27 (of David)

The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?

When evil men advance against me
to devour my flesh,
when my enemies and my foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.

Though an army besiege me,
my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
even then will I be confident.

One thing I ask of the LORD,
this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD
and to seek him in his temple.

For in the day of trouble
he will keep me safe in his dwelling;
he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle
and set me high upon a rock.

Then my head will be exalted
above the enemies who surround me;
at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make music to the LORD.

Hear my voice when I call, O LORD;
be merciful to me and answer me.

My heart says of you, "Seek his face!"
Your face, LORD, I will seek.

Do not hide your face from me,
do not turn your servant away in anger;
you have been my helper.
Do not reject me or forsake me,
O God my Savior.

Though my father and mother forsake me,
the LORD will receive me.

Teach me your way, O LORD;
lead me in a straight path
because of my oppressors.

Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes,
for false witnesses rise up against me,
breathing out violence.

I am still confident of this:
I will see the goodness of the LORD
in the land of the living.

Wait for the LORD;
be strong and take heart
and wait for the LORD.

Beginning = Completion

Philippians 1:6 (NIV) "Being confident in this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
If you have/had a good start...it will be completed. God does not half way do anything. If he has planted seeds and desires in you, he will carry them out to completion! Look around and realize how blessed you are. How much worse could your circumstances have been. You could have been born into a life leading to death and destruction. If God kept you from that, preserving your mind and body...he began a good work in you. Allow him to carry it out by being diligent, obedient, and faithful. Trust that God has not brought you this far only to leave his work within you undone.

Sleepy? Wisdom is better than strength...

Ecclesiastes 9:11-18 (NIV) I have seen something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all. Moreover, no man knows when his hour will come: As fish are caught in a cruel net, or birds are taken in a snare, so men are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them.

I also saw under the sun this example of wisdom that greatly impressed me: There was once a small city with only a few people in it. And a powerful king came against it, surrounded it and built huge siegeworks against it. Now there lived in that city a man poor but wise, and he saved the city by his wisdom. But nobody remembered that poor man. So I said, "Wisdom is better than strength." But the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are no longer heeded. The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts of a ruler of fools. Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good.

If God is for you, who could be against you???

Romans 8:28-31 (NIV) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?

God purposely intended for the lives of those who love him to be conformed to the life of Jesus, as we are leaders. There are certain life situations that will stretch you and cause you to question who really cares about you in life. God has already worked out every thing that ever happens to you with a positive outcome. You shouldn't worry about your enemies- those who accuse you. Instead know that all things work together for the good of those who love him. Who would want to question or bring harm to one of God's chosen? No one, for God will deal with them. Real talk.

Food For Thought: POWER Bar

Ephesians 1:15-23(NIV) "For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is the body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way."
There is so much power in this message. God's imcomparably great power for those who believe is the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. I don't know anything more powerful than the power to raise from the dead! But not only did he raise Jesus from the dead, but he appointed him far above all rule and authority. Every kingdom,every principality, every stronghold (both seen and unseen), are all under the name of JESUS. And not just now...BUT FOREVER! I don't know about you, but I NEED that dosage of POWER in my life...always! Study the scripture, let it sink in. I know we all go through trials in life. There are horrible things happening to people all around us. Perhaps some horrible things have happened to you, or are happening to you right now. When we think back on our lives, particularly the low points, we can always keep in mind the sacrifice of Jesus. He was a man who knew no sin, loved and cared for the poor, performed miracles, and spoke the truth in an effort to set others free. He was an innocent man. Still he was betrayed, lied on, persecuted, ordered to death by crucifiction, took on all sin, and went to hell. There is no one alive who can say they've had it worse than that! But the POWER of God is what raised him, justified him, and APPOINTED him to be head over everything, over any title that could be given in both heaven and earth. And not just things we can see with our natural eye, but over EVRERYTHING. That same power is available for us believers.Allow God's matchless power to take you from the ultimate low point, to the ultimate high point- Just like he did Jesus. Put God's POWER to work in your life. It's yours!

The Valley of the Shadow of Death

Psalm 23:4(NIV) "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23 is one of the most well known passages in the bible, but what exactly is the valley of the shadow of death? Over the years, when I read or heard this passage, I would automatically visualize the valley of the shadow of death as a dark valley with God walking by my side. Recently, the Holy Spirit revealed to me that the valley of the shadow of death is anywhere sin is present. Full grown sin only leads to death (James 1:15). Since we have all sinned, we have all placed ourselves in the realm of destruction or death. Shadow is defined as a dark image cast on a surface by a body intercepting light. The remanants of sin are all around us, because we were born into it. But when we are in those places, God is with us. We can trust and have faith in his rod and staff, which are what have led us thus far.

Count it all joy!

Please read the entire first chapter of James.

Count all of your trials as good things. God is looking to perfect you, and teach you the art of perserverance. Learn what the word says. Do what the word says. Have faith in God. If something happens to you, you may ask God why. But make sure you hold firm to the faith that you have in God. Believe and don't doubt! Be strong under temptation- sin only leads to death. You are chosen! Be humble, where ever you are in life. Money and riches mean nothing! Here today and gone tomorrow (or even later today). Speak positively to each other. Hold your tongue. This is pleasing to the Lord. Take care of orphans and widows. Love each other- and watch your mouth! Set yourself apart and do not become polluted by the ways of this world. Do not be double minded. Choose a path and stick with it.
This post is as much for myself as it is for anybody. God is dealing with me. Please pray my strength. I look forward to my crown of glory. I know it wont be long, now.

Restoration has finally come

Sometimes we try to make things happen that are not meant to be in our hands. It would be foolish for a janitor to try to make the decisions of a CEO. It would be a bad situation if a waitress at a restaurant all of a sudden decided to whip up a five course meal, in place of the chef. We all have our own talents, our own responsibility, and our own role. Stepping outside of that and assuming responsibilities never meant for us can sometimes lead to disaster. It is always best to let God guide your footsteps. Isaiah 55:6-9 (NIV) reads, "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God for he will freely pardon. 'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,' declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."

God thinks and plans in a way that we could never understand. It is best to let him stay in control. Playing the position of obedience is not always easy, but that is the position that God intended for us to have. I challenge you to leave your biggest concerns in the hands of God. I challenge you to stop planning, stop compromising, and stop worrying about how it will turn out. Trust that God's thoughts and ways are higher than yours, and know that he is in control. He will restore you.

Food for Thought: SUPERMAN Ice Cream

Are you as committed to your cause as Superman was? Ever think about the sacrifice Superman made? He was ready at a beckoning call to help someone in need. That must've required tremendous commitment and focus. He set aside a normal life, and selfish desires for a greater purpose. He was constantly in training. I dont imagine that 6 pack came by just laying around doing nothing! He was fully aware that it was necessary for him to condition his body. He could not remain stagnant while his enemies were becoming stronger. And believe, your adversaries are in STRICT training right now. Stay commited and make the sacrifice! The world needs Saving.

"I'm a very competitive person. For me, when I was fighting and I didn't feel like getting up early to run, I'd imagine my opponent out there running, getting in better shape than me. I would remind myself 'you have to pay the cost to be the boss.' When you're tired, when you've got a lot going on, remind yourself of your goal...you're never gonna get there if you don't make sacrifices." -Laila Ali

"I'm a work of art; I'm a Warhol already" lol
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warhol

Christian Rap Artists Reppin' MY HOMETOWN. Shonda "AKA" Fearless & Mizz Reality!!!!!!

THOUGHTS and INTENTIONS (2 Corinthians 10:5)

2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV) "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."
How are your thoughts/intentions? Are you thinking things that are against the knowledge of God? To take something captive means to make or hold as a prisoner. You have the right to captivate your thoughts in order to make them obedient to what Jesus says. If you are having thoughts of worthlessness, doubt, and fear...those are against the knowledge of God! I encourage you to turn those thoughts around, until there is nothing in your mind that is disobedient to Christ. How do you know something is against the knowledge of God? If God said it- it's true. If God did not say it- it is not true. Therefore, all negative images of yourself, or negative intentions are not of God. You have to end these early. Sin starts in the mind. Take those thoughts captive and make them obedient to the only wise, most high God :o)
We are at WAR. And the weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world!

Israel Houghton's "The Power of One" Grammy Award winning Worship Album. FIRE

268 Generation GOES IN!
CHRISTIAN COLLEGE STUDENTS FOLLOWING GOD: Looking for passion? I encourage you to get involved with 268 Generation's "Passion Movement" (Word!) These are worldwide conferences designed to glorify God uniting students students in worship and prayer for spiritual awakening in this generation. I am excited about how God is moving within the lives of this up coming generation! Sometimes it can look like the enemy has got his hold on the children coming up these days. But the awesome power of people coming together to worship, pray, and uplift the LORD is an unstoppable force!
http://www.268generation.com/

ATTENTION CHRISTIAN SINGLES!!!! Waiting for a mate? Confused about whether or not you even want to marry? PLEASE listen to the following message: "Starting Right" Dennis Rouse, Victory World Church, Atlanta GA http://victoryatl.com/p/12162/MediaID/315/Default.aspx


"Back to Eden" May 14, 2010 7pm, Perspective 2-Lansing, MI...Join us for a night of fashion and music presented by Yolanda "Yalu" Knight. Knight's new fashion and jewelry line will be presented, along with an hors d'oeuvre reception. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased by calling (517)993-8784.

FAITH TO RECEIVE WHAT YOU WANT
Matt. 10:46-52 (AMP) "Then they came to Jericho. And as he [Jesus] was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, a son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, saying, Jesus, Son of David have pity and mercy on me [now]! And many severely censured and reproved him, telling him to keep still, but he kept on shouting out all the more, You Son of David, have pity and mercy on me [now]! And Jesus stopped and said, Call him. And they called the blind man, telling him, Take courage! Get up! He is calling you. And throwing off his outer garment, he leaped up and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, What do you want Me to do for you? And the blind man said to Him, Master, let me receive my sight. And Jesus said to him, Go your way; your faith has healed you. And at once he received his sight and accompanied Jesus on the road."
WOW! Bartimaeus boldly approached the Lord. Even after others attempted to silence and censor him. Jesus heard him, and asked him what he wanted....and by his faith he received his sight. Bartimaeus knew that Jesus could heal him. He BELIEVED IT! The Amplified text inserts the phrase 'now' into this passage. That is because when we are believing God for something that we need NOW (not a moment later), we need to have that type of faith Bartimaeus had in the Lord. He will vindicate you and give you your desires if you boldly approach him (no matter what others are saying around you) and BELIEVE. YOUR FAITH WILL HEAL YOU!

Wanna Enter In? By that I mean entering into the presence of God? CeCe Winans has moving worship songs on her CD "Thy Kingdom Come" that set the atmosphere for the Holy Spirit to be present. The title track "We Welcome You (Holy Father)" Is my favorite! CeCe has always been serious about worship. God Inhabits the praises of his people! Welcoming him wherever you are is an awesome way to fellowship with the Lord.

Psalm 30:4-5 "Sing unto the Lord, O you Saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his Holy name. For his anger is for a moment but his favor is for life. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning."

Deitrick Haddon 7 Days. Beautiful Christian Inspirational Sounds! This man is talented...



Having trouble with forgiveness? Do you always fall for the trap of the enemy that keeps you in bondage? John Bevere's "The Bait of Satan" is a powerful tool to help us overcome those traps. Remember...the enemy knows you. He would like to take everything from you. But he is defeated!


(Wildebeest Stampede)This is happening somewhere in the world, even as we speak. WOW...Scenes like this make me realize how big the world really is, and how much of it I have not yet seen...

Just because you are different, doesn't mean you're ugly. You could just be a swan amongst ducks!

Do you know the Lord Jesus Christ?

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Saviour? John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). If you're not sure what that means, basically he is the answer to every problem you've ever faced. God sacrificed his own son (Jesus paid our debt to God with his life, and took on all of our sins, diseases, and sorrows) so that we can walk in the fullness that God created us for. And what a joyful, fun, peaceful, healthy life that is!

Romans 10:9-10 Says "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 you are saved."

So if you speak out loud that Jesus is Lord, and you truly believe he is the son of God, and was raised from the dead- you are saved. Jesus Christ is your personal saviour, and you are on your way to Heaven!

There is much more to the Christian life than just the prayer of salvation. This is just the first step. Dont expect your outward appearance or situations to change over night. But trust that God looks beyond your faults and goes straight to your heart in order to perform a transformation from the inside out. He has now made your heart his home.

Joyce Meyer Conference helps birth My Ministry

We were so close! :-)

"I Dare You-Embrace Life with Passion" by Joyce Meyer. A great book to read if you're working on identifying your purpose and living it. God has a very specific plan and purpose for all of us.
This is my account of my experience at the Joyce Meyer conference in Grand Rapids MI this past weekend. God truly spoke to me at this conference in regards to the power that is within me as a child of God. I am moved to step forward in my ministry, leave behind my thought process and re-gain control of my thoughts. This is my season & I am expecting!!! Psalm 62:5-6 "My soul, wait only upon God and silently submit to him; for my hope and expectation are from him. He only is my Rock and my salvation; He is my defense and my fortress, I shall not be moved."

Things that inspire me

Writing has always been a passion of mine. When searching for inspiriation, I often look at pictures that inspire me to tap into the depths of my creativity. Above are a few examples of such images. You really have to be an artist to understand....

-Las Vegas Skyline

-Millenium Force

-Palace of Versailles

-Monaco, Monte Carlo