Without God In The Midst!

“Woe to the obstinate children,” declares the LORD, “to those who carry out plans that are not mine, forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit, heaping sin upon sin; who go down to Egypt without consulting me; who look for help to Pharaoh’s protection, to Egypt’s shade for refuge. But Pharaoh’s protection will be to your shame, Egypt’s shade will bring you disgrace. Though they have officials in Zoan and their envoys have arrived in Hanes, everyone will be put to shame because of a people useless to them, who bring neither help nor advantage, but only shame and disgrace.” Isaiah 30: 1-5 NIV

Seeking understanding to explain what's happening in our society today, we see in The Word, there is truly nothing new under the sun.

Then, as now, whenever people sought "other people or places" as a means to change things for the better--without God, they inevitably made a mess of things and people ended up in worse shape than they were in from the beginning.

Looking at Pharaoh--the iconic symbol for government--one in a position of ruling the government and Egypt as the seat of government--we see the parallels that exist in our system of government--supposedly a democracy, but its foundation of lies and hypocrisy leads us to where we are today.

If we seek salvation from a president--we delude ourselves; especially if that person does not know God and cannot make decisions for us based upon The Word. If we seek deliverance from all the woes we see--economic distress, political unrest, and a general lack of respect for others--we waste our time expecting relief or change from a place--namely Washington, DC--the seat of government.

Without consulting God--we can do nothing worthwhile and we are like the proverbial ship without a sail and doomed to fail at all we do.

Without consulting God--Supreme Court Justices openly defy and alter God's plan for mankind--making a mockery of the first institution established by God--marriage.

Without consulting God--legislators decided to remove prayer and kick God out of the schools, leaving the door open for the devil to create havoc and chaos for all.

Without consulting God--our current President endorses predatory behavior by claiming that anyone can use any bathroom--"whatever they feel like they are."

Without consulting God--we the people--by popular proclamation--are considering electing people who have not consulted God--to benefit the people.

Since God is not being consulted--for any number of things--we open ourselves to the consequences of sin--heaped upon sin.

Any time, people--from times past to the present--have proceeded to plan anything without God being in the midst--we leave ourselves prey to all the evil the enemy has planned and then we wonder why--things are falling apart all around us. It is no mystery that the world is headed in the wrong direction, for we're looking for deliverance from people, and not God.

It's time for us to head in the right direction, but that can only happen when we allow God's plans to unfold in our lives. And the only way we can know God's Plans is to get into His Word, seek His Wisdom, and do things--His Way!

Remembering Those Who Gave Their Lives!

Remember how short my life is,
how empty and futile this human existence!
No one can live forever; all will die.
No one can escape the power of the grave. Psalm 89:47-48 NIV

The psalmist (Ethan) makes a statement that while not intended for us in the 21st century, is nevertheless applicable to all at all times, especially those who lives have been lost in wars.
Freedom--from men and bondage of ideologies--comes with a price and that price is the lives of all who dare to fight for freedom.

Today, is the day that we should remember all those who have given their lives in wars, that those of us remaining may know freedom and learn to live in peace. However, where there is no peace, there will always be strife and where there is strife, wars simmer until they explode into battles that end--with many of us missing and remembering loved ones, who did what we could not or would not do--continue the fight for freedom.

This is the time to remember those who were willing to die in wars for freedom that we might live in
peace.

The Revolutionary War--freedom from the dictates of England.

The Civil War--economic liberty and trade between the states and the liberation of slaves from taskmasters who did not understand humane compassion.

World Wars I and II--assisting those on foreign shores in order to maintain the freedom of America.

Korean and Vietnam Wars--attempts to liberate others so they would not be subject to dictators who only thought about themselves.

All the Battles in the Middle East--that are yet on-going--providing an avenue for people to live their lives according to their beliefs and not the dictates of others.

Some of the wars were necessary, and some questionable, but the fact that many men and women chose to give their lives to protect the freedoms we enjoy in this country, makes the day worth remembering them and inspiring us to never lose sight of what America and Americans stand for--liberty and freedom for all. Remember those who died for us to have freedom and then think about what we do with our lives--with purpose.

Let us all work to restore peace in this land and not make their deaths, futile and serving no purpose, honoring all and respecting all as God would have us to do.

Just Believe!

Then one of the synagogue leaders, named Jairus, came, and when he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet. He pleaded earnestly with him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.”So Jesus went with him. A large crowd followed and pressed around him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years.She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse.  When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.”Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.  At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” “You see the people crowding against you,” his disciples answered, “and yet you can ask, ‘Who touched me?’ ” But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it.Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth.  He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?” Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. Mark 5:22-37 NIV

There is so much that can be said about this passage of scripture, but I will limit myself to just a few points.

If we believe, we request with the understanding that our request will be honored.  Jairus believed, said it, and made his request of Jesus.

The woman with the illness--heard about Jesus and knew that if she could just touch his clothes she would be healed and she was. Her faith moved her to doing what she believed would happen.

And when the doubters--those who didn't have any faith in Jesus--came and told Jairus that it was too late for Jesus to do anything about his daughter, Jesus just looked at him and told him not to be afraid, but to just believe.

After speaking to Jairus, even though a crowd was following Him, Jesus did not allow the doubters and haters to complete the trip to Jairus house.

What do we learn from this? Our faith must be so strong that we ignore the doubters and haters and simply believe God (not just in Him)--knowing that whatever we request of Him, if our faith is immovable, He will do it.

Jairus believed Jesus would heal his daughter even after they told him she was dead.

After hearing about Jesus, the woman believed she would be healed if she just touched His clothes.

What are you believing God for right now? Do you believe or are just faking it to make it? Make your request known to God and believe--never doubting--and watch Him work in your life! Instead of faking it--faith it--never allowing the haters to change your mind about what you know God can and will do.

Getting beyond the passages listed above--we know that even though the child had died, when Jesus touched her she rose from her sleep. Now, imagine how disheartened Jairus might have been, but yet retained his faith that Jesus would save his daughter. His faith and belief in Jesus led to his daughter rising and living again.

It is our faith--not God's--that moves Him into responding to our requests. We simply just believe!

So, let's get The Word out--promoting Jesus--so all will have opportunity to hear about Him, build their faith, and believe He will respond to our needs.

Robots Don't Whine!

Have you seen the latest editorial regarding the increase of the minimum wages?
 http://linkis.com/dcclothesline.com/CziQF

Sometimes, before we start whining and complaining, we need to think about the repercussions of "getting what we want!"

While there was a national clamor to increase the minimum wage--especially for fast food workers to $15/per hour, not many gave a great deal of thought as to what the end results would be. And in case you didn't think about it, let me provide you with a bit of an overview.

If workers receive $15/hour, how much of an increase will we see for the cost of a hamburger and fries?

And in Chicago (and possibly other cities), if a robot replaces the human worker, who really benefits from the wage increases?

Robots (or any other mechanical means) do not whine or complain.

Robots don't come in late on a daily basis.

Robots don't need medical benefits.

Robots don't need vacation time.

And perhaps more importantly, robots don't have an attitude (they're not grumpy or out of sorts--don't have bad days).

So, now which you rather have in the business of serving you? A robot or a disgruntled human being? It's something to think about!

Personally, I love the interaction between us mere mortals, but I'm not paying through the nose for a hamburger. I'll do more grocery shopping.

The Beauty of Holiness!

For all the gods of the peoples are idols,
But the LORD made the heavens.
Honor and majesty are before Him;
Strength and gladness are in His place.
Give to the LORD, O families of the peoples,
Give to the LORD glory and strength.
Give to the LORD the glory due His name;
Bring an offering, and come before Him.
Oh, worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness!
Tremble before Him, all the earth.
The world also is firmly established,
It shall not be moved.
Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad;
And let them say among the nations, “The LORD reigns.”
                                                          1 Chronicles 16:26-31 NKJV

There are many ways that people--we mere mortals--define beauty in the earth realm. We determine who is beautiful by physical features, bone structure, waistlines, hair length, height and weight. That's what we do. But real beauty in people should be a measurement of a person's heart and what they do for others, without seeking recognition for anything they do. 

I have met and known some really beautiful people--but they wouldn't measure up to the world's definition because of their facial features or other physical flaws. I measure their beauty because of their compassion and diligence in always seeking ways to help others and putting themselves in the background for all they do.

No matter how I measure or assess beauty or anyone else--true beauty is found in how we live for The Lord and that is in holiness.

Holiness--is living according to The Word--it is not how a person looks or dresses. Unfortunately, there are groups of people who think that holiness is represented in being uncomfortable in clothing, covering hair or faces, being meek and subordinate, positions for praying, songs sung in worship and none of that matters if The Word of God is not the blueprint for how one lives.

We worship God in the beauty of holiness by living for Him. It is a lifestyle that promotes who He is, not who we are.

How we dress is not a concern for God unless we are immodest in what we wear that brings more attention to us than Him. He looks upon the heart of a person, not their outward appearance. Since this is how He looks at us, perhaps we should do the same and stop looking at the outward person, but assessing their heart by what they do. For out of the abundance of the heart--the mouth speaks. And what we say, is a good indicator of what we do.

Today and every day, let's learn to appreciate the real beauty in others by the evidence we see of what's in their heart, not in their appearance.

myBook.to/Holiness

Being Thankful!

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:12-17 NIV

When we understand how God does things--not necessarily how we do them--and remember to thank Him for all things, He never lets us down.

Many are the plans of man, but only what God has planned will work. I see that so often in my own life that I know I should never be concerned about anything and what the end result will be. But human nature--such as it is--always leans upon one's own understanding of how things should be instead of allowing God to guide. However, when we know--He's in charge--and allow Holy Spirit to speak to us--and we listen--all things really do work for the good of those who love The Lord.

When we allow The Word of God to guide us in all things--loving one another, showing compassion towards all, providing all things honest in the sight of all--as His chosen people, we see His results for all we do.

For the past year, I have served in a volunteer capacity with our school's Band Boosters as the treasurer. With the help of the past treasurer--who is a real jewel and treasure all by herself--we managed to do all we needed to do and enjoy success with our fundraisers. Last night was the culminating event--a celebratory banquet--recognizing the accomplishments of our school bands and honoring those to whom honor is due. Though we had a rocky start in the planning, God showed us the way and the event was a delight for all who came.

I am usually not a pessimist--more a realist--and I wasn't sure how things were going to turn out, but I decided to trust God and I said, "Whatever You want it to be, Lord, that's what it will be." And it was! I am so grateful and thankful to be His and for His love!

Sometimes, we miss the practicality of applying The Word to our lives and as a result, we miss receiving God's best in our lives. Moments like last night, remind me that we should always apply The Word to our lives in all situations and there is nothing--absolutely nothing--we could ever experience, plan or do that is not covered in The Word.

Glory to God! What a blessing to rest in His peace and know joy in the midst of confusion of chaos and uncertainty, He is right there! Thanking God for all things--whether I understand them or not.

We Will Not Fear Mere Mortals!

Let those who fear the LORD say: “His love endures forever.”When hard pressed, I cried to the LORD; he brought me into a spacious place. The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? The LORD is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in humans.  It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes. Psalm 118:4-9 NIV

Do we have a reverential fear (respect and honor) for the Lord? If we do, why do we concern ourselves--operating in fear--over what men might do?

In spite of all the dire predictions associated with--everything--our economy, climate change, global threats from terrorists, and our nightmarish presidential campaigns, we can--if we know The Lord--be at peace!

When the psalmist understood that nothing a mere mortal did compared with what The Lord will do, he made a decision and proclaimed, "The Lord is with me and He is my helper!"

Do we dare proclaim the same? We do when we know it's true. The Lord is with us and He is our helper. The Lord, our God, who created all that was ever created is the same and He is our provider. The Lord will not abandon us nor leave us without a way of escape from evil. The Lord will take care of those who obey Him!

I don't know about you, but right now, I'm proclaiming I have no reason to fear what foolish mortals may do. I am surrounded by angels assigned to me and nothing the enemy has planned will come to light. No weapon formed against me shall prosper and includes any attempts by the enemy to influence negative thinking about any circumstance that arises in my life. I am proclaiming that with
The Lord going before me (daily) He is more than enough to protect me from anyone or anything.

What about you? Is your faith sustained in the One who can do all things well and cannot fail?

If our faith--relentless and steadfast--is in Jesus--we have no need to fear mere mortals who are like us--imperfect in all their ways and put on their pants--one leg at a time.

Jesus is the way, the light and the truth and no mere mortal can ever compare to Him!

As For Me And My House!

But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”Then the people answered, “Far be it from us to forsake the LORD to serve other gods!  It was the LORD our God himself who brought us and our parents up out of Egypt, from that land of slavery, and performed those great signs before our eyes. He protected us on our entire journey and among all the nations through which we traveled. If you forsake the LORD and serve foreign gods, he will turn and bring disaster on you and make an end of you, after he has been good to you.” Joshua 24:15-18, 20 NIV

Looking at Joshua's adamant stance regarding serving The Lord, we should be reminded of how God functions through those who truly love Him.

If we serve other gods--whether people or things--we cannot love God of all Creation. Not once has a "thing" ever created anything. All the things that people worship are made by the hands of man. And man--has never created anything from nothing. All man has invented was with all that had already been created. It doesn't take much to invent when materials are already accessible. But show me--one thing--created from nothing by the hands of man.

Since not one thing has ever been created by man, my household will serve The Lord.

I pray all will read Joshua's experiences with God and God's promises to Him and make a determination to serve Him and Him alone. When we seek Him for answers and direction, He will provide them--for His glory, not our own.

To God be all glory and majesty forever and ever.

Where Do We Stand With God?

But these people have stubborn and rebellious hearts; they have turned aside and gone away. They do not say to themselves, ‘Let us fear the LORD our God, who gives autumn and spring rains in season, who assures us of the regular weeks of harvest. Your wrongdoings have kept these away; your sins have deprived you of good.“Among my people are the wicked who lie in wait like men who snare birds and like those who set traps to catch people. Like cages full of birds, their houses are full of deceit; they have become rich and powerful and have grown fat and sleek. Their evil deeds have no limit; they do not seek justice. They do not promote the case of the fatherless; they do not defend the just cause of the poor. Should I not punish them for this?” declares the LORD. “Should I not avenge myself on such a nation as this?“A horrible and shocking thing has happened in the land: The prophets prophesy lies, the priests rule by their own authority, and my people love it this way. But what will you do in the end? Jeremiah 5:23-31 NIV

No matter how hard we may try, we cannot ignore what the prophets of earlier times have said, especially when we see--hundreds of years later--the same thing happening across the globe.

While we have no control over what other people do, are we exercising control over what we--individually do? If we are not capable of self-control and living right before God as individuals, how could we expect a nation to do what is right? After all, the nation is the collective group of individuals. So therefore--each individual's action becomes a benchmark for the nation to be judged. Are we setting a standard to be admired or mocked, to be rewarded or punished? Where do we stand with God?

Unfortunately, we often say things that are attempts to justify our inability to live according to God's Word like, "No one is perfect." While that's true, it is simply not an excuse to live in opposition to God's Word.

Our imperfections and flaws and shortcomings are a result of disobedience and lack of understanding, both of which we have control. We miss the mark when we allow the dictates of our flesh to lead us and not Holy Spirit. We allow our emotions to reign in our lives instead of wisdom and uh-oh, dare I say it, "common sense." When we refuse to get into The Word of God and seek Him for understanding, we continue to fall short of being who He desires us to be and in doing what He desires us to do.

As the Word points out to us, "we are without excuse" and there is no point in our attempting to justify living according to the dictates of our flesh. Though there may be many who claim they do not believe in God and certainly won't read a bible, there are just as many Believers who blog on a daily basis--promoting God's Word and His love. Since many spend more time on the Internet than they do in opening a book, there is much to be found to keep people on the path where God would have us. The global opportunity means we have far-reaching capability to make sure everyone has access to understanding of God's Word. Indeed, there are many people--especially some who claimed to be atheists, who have exposed to the truth of God's Word and accepted.

Now, what was that excuse again? No Bible--no problem--there are many online bibles with commentaries and many bloggers who do an excellent job of explaining scripture and connecting the application to our lives. We are indeed without excuse. So, where do we stand with God? Each individual has to answer that question for themselves and then we can accurately conclude whether or not--we are in the same place today as the people were when Jeremiah spoke to them.

Is Everything Meaningless?

“Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.”What do people gain from all their labors at which they toil under the sun? Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever.The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises. The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course.All streams flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place the streams come from, there they return again. All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing.  What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:2-9 NIV 

Unless a person understands the stage of life Solomon was in, one could think that Solomon was decreeing that life was not worth living. But that is far from the case and since his proclamation came before Christ arrived, we know that every moment of life is precious in His sight and when we accept His gift of salvation--everything has meaning.

Having received the gift of wisdom--beyond measure of any other mortal--Solomon lived according to God's Word until he connected with many women who did not know God and in fact worshiped other gods. Gradually, he began practicing some of the forbidden rituals (the danger of being unequally yoked in faith and beliefs) and by the time he realized he fallen far from where God desired him to be, he realized he had wasted the gift given to him. Wisdom without knowledge produces disasters. Knowledge without wisdom is just as catastrophic. This is why we're told, "Wisdom is the principle thing, and in all our getting, get understanding."

Giving a teenager a car when they don't know how to drive usually has negative consequences. They know what the car is, but they do not know the details of how the car functions and without instruction, the car may never move and doesn't benefit them. However, with instruction and knowledge of not just how the car functions, but also the laws pertaining to legally driving, and understanding consideration on the roads, the car benefits them.

We have been given a great gift--salvation--and until we know what it means and begin to practice the instructions in The Word--we may never benefit from the gift. If we never understand the benefit of salvation, life really is meaningless.

With the abundance of grace we've also been given, we learn from our mistakes and commit to doing better and as we continue in life, we'll see just how great our God is and how wonderful life can be--even when we miss the mark--as long as we get back on the path.

There are valuable lessons living provides for us, so let's live to the glory of God and learn how we please Him and be a blessing to others. Living for Him, gives life meaning that is sometimes difficult to understand and express, but so worthwhile.

What Holy Spirit Fruit Produces!

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. We must not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:22-26 (HCSB).

Yesterday, it was pointed out to me that I should not say, "Trump is not a Christian because I don't know his heart" (which is true)  and my response was, "I see no evidence of him being one." For the bible I read (and I read many translations) states, "A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of." Luke 6:45 NIV. Therefore, if I judge (righteously) what I hear someone say, there are some conclusions I can draw from what I hear.

But let's analyze the heart of the man based upon what the fruit we see as Paul outlines in the focus passage of scripture.

Do we see love for all mankind exhibited--without references to any type of hatred for what people do? God loves us unconditionally, even when we mess up and He waits with patience and open arms to get living right for Him. No wall-building with Him simply because we mere mortals don't exercise His wisdom at all times.

Do we see joy exhibited in Trump--the joy of the Lord--not the elation he feels when he thinks he has emasculated others?

Do we see tenants of peace exhibited in Trump--or do we hear the sounds of war--threats against anyone who dares to disagree with him and promises to make others miserable?

Do we see patience exhibited in Trump--watch him gathering all the information he needs before making a wild, random accusation as we just recently saw regarding a plane going down? Do we really want someone sitting in the White House who reacts to situations rather than patiently respond to them?

Do we see kindness exhibited in Trump--towards all people, not just insipid blondes, rich white men, and those who support racist hatred?

Do we see goodness exhibited in Trump--the kind of good that obeys the tax laws and does not try to skirt them with loop holes, bankruptcies and creative accounting to make sure he pays the least amount of taxes possible (changing the value of what he owns)?

Do we see faith exhibited in Trump--in God--not himself--especially since it's difficult, it not impossible to see any Godly qualities in the man?

Do we see gentleness exhibited in Trump--when he has a hair-trigger temper and will lash out at anyone for any reason because he doesn't like it when people speak truth about him?

Do we see self-control exhibited in Trump--when he is quick to use Twitter to react to anything and then he attempts to backpedal everything he says?

Please don't misunderstand my intent here--it is not to bash Trump, but to simply point out the "lack of evidence" I see of him being a follower of Jesus Christ. Now, if other people see this evidence, I would have to wonder if their eyes have been blinded by bias against Hillary or all who are Democrats.

This post was not intended to be a political assertion of any kind, but to show how those of us who know The Lord and have a relationship with Him should analyze a situation before we vote for someone for the highest office in this country. I concede it might be perceived as purely political by those who read it with bias shielding their eyes and hearts.

I have yet to decide who gets my vote and I'm still lingering over the possibility of simply writing in my own name, since neither of the front-running candidates impress me as the right person to run this country. Whatever I'm impressed of The Lord to do, I shall do because I know He will not lead me in the wrong direction as my feelings certainly could.

Let's look to The Word, seeking God for direction and put our personal biases aside so that everyone in this country will benefit from the leading of Holy Spirit.

Wisdom Is Needed To Lead!

That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” Solomon answered God, “You have shown great kindness to David my father and have made me king in his place. Now, LORD God, let your promise to my father David be confirmed, for you have made me king over a people who are as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” God said to Solomon, “Since this is your heart’s desire and you have not asked for wealth, possessions or honor, nor for the death of your enemies, and since you have not asked for a long life but for wisdom and knowledge to govern my people over whom I have made you king, therefore wisdom and knowledge will be given you. And I will also give you wealth, possessions and honor, such as no king who was before you ever had and none after you will have.” 2 Chronicles 1:7-12 NIV

Believers know the story about Solomon and how he asked God for wisdom instead of riches and God gave Him the riches and honor, too. Amazing! The king humbled himself before God and acknowledged he didn't have what it would take to lead God's people!

There are so many lessons that can be learned from Solomon's life. First of all, his ascension to his father's throne was fulfillment of prophecy.  There are some things that are going to happen in our lives that are simply fulfillment of God's plans. What we do with those plans are on us.

Then, we need to know within ourselves when we need help. Thinking we know everything when we don't is probably the detonator that will trigger disaster in our lives. None of us knows everything and we all need people in our lives to help us to accomplish anything worthwhile.  We own what we do not know and ask for help before either cause an implosion or an explosion that destroys us and others.

When we understand God, through our relationship with Him, we know there is no wisdom like His and we go to Him to ask for wisdom and direction in all area of our lives. And get this--He won't think badly of us when we come to Him for help. What He will do, is to honor our request. He will give us more wisdom than we can handle at one time, but He will also guide us in using the wisdom He gives.

Another lesson we obtain from learning about Solomon is to not get so full of ourselves that we forget how God expects all of His people to live. Solomon allowed his wealth--the material things to mean far too much to him to the point that he boasted--to the wrong people--of all he had. And to make matters worse--he married all sorts of women and had concubines and lived long enough to understand--he had gone astray and what befell him was because of his disobedience to God.

I have heard and seen many people proclaiming that even though Trump is not qualified to be the president of this country that we should just pray for him. Here's the challenge with that approach--all the prayer in the world will not make him fit to be president if he is not willing to hear God.  
Presently, I see no evidence of him ever listening to God because he's too busy listening to himself. We must remember that God allows all of us freewill choice--He does not make anyone do anything and He won't change who He is because of Donald Trump or anyone else.

Therefore, my prayer is for the nation--that as Americans we will stand firm on God's Word and seek Him in all things--including who we put into office. When we are willing to listen to God, He will speak to us and we will hear what He says--even over the barrage of insults and media sensationalism.

Lord, give us a heart to hear You and then give us the desire, the will, and the courage to obey what we hear.

When The Vision is Revealed!

I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what he will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint. Then the LORD replied: “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay." Habakkuk 2:1-3 NIV

Be encouraged! When God gives us a vision--even when we don't understand how it will all play out in our lives, we simply need to write it down--keeping it before us--until it comes to pass.

What is the vision given to you?

Some have been given visions of traveling to faraway places to promote the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Write it down and plan the journey even when the resources are not known--keep it in front of you and remain stedfast in faith that God will bring it to pass. He is faithful to complete everything He starts in us.

Some have been given visions to start non-profit organizations to help those who have been unfortunate in life--to keep them from giving up hope and to promote their well-being--providing them the means to be self-sufficient in life.

Some have been given visions to start for-profit businesses that will be valuable in the kingdom as the Gospel is promoted within and without these businesses.

Some have been given visions to serve in government positions to keep those in leadership mindful of their purposes--according to God's plans.

Some have been given visions to teach--educate others both in secular environments and within The Body of Christ--so growth, character, and integrity remain a vital part of our society.

Some have been given visions to write--all that Holy Spirit inspires them to write and publish so all will access to what God is speaking to the hearts of all who are willing to listen.

Whatever God has shown us--through visions--we should write it down and prepare to receive all that He has planned for us--and when the plans are complete--we wait for Him to implement each step of the way so we'll get His results and not our own.

As a result of seeing the vision He has for me--I'm in the process of developing another site designed to discuss my books and those I review for others. I'm excited and receptive to hearing what others think as I begin this new phase and would appreciate whatever insight and feedback others are willing to give. Here's the link http://www.mhrlifewriter.com/

May God continue to give you vision and desire to see it through until the end. Write the vision, prepare to see it, and then wait for it!

Focused On What Matters!

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. Philippians 3:13-17 NIV

Lately, I've been feeling a little bombarded with the weight of all the negative things that are reported in the news. Part of the problem is--I'm listening to far more newscasts than I should. Normally, I see the early morning newscasts because I need to be aware of weather and traffic and in listening to this--I can't ignore the sad events that are repeatedly reported.

Knowing as I do, how the enemy deceives people and confuses their minds, I should not be surprised at the number of people who commit random crimes and kill others with no thought as to how their acts will affect others. I don't just mean how the killings affect immediate family and friends--I mean everyone who has a heart. And the killers--people who kill older people in their homes--are heartless; people who hit people with their cars and then dump the body--heartless; people who randomly shoot at others not caring who gets hit in the crossfire--heartless.

Sensitivity to all the negativity reminds me that I do indeed have a heart, but if I focus on all the negative stuff, my heart will too heavy to continue doing what may make a difference in the lives of others.

At some point, I'm sure others have felt the same way. How do we keep moving forward with all the tragedy that is constantly bombarding us? We stay focused on the things that matter. We cannot control people any more than God will--He gives us all freewill to make our own choices. Some choices people are not good and some are even worse, but the choices we make--keeping our focus on hearing God and being obedient, can and will make a difference.

We must continue to encourage all to live according to God's Word. We must continue spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ--no matter how heavy our hearts are and we must continue to love--even those who hate us because of our obedience to God. Our focus on doing the will of God is what matters and for that reason, we have to filter what we hear and deliberately choose to ignore all that will distract us from our purposes.

There is absolutely nothing we can do to change those things which have already happened, but we may make a difference in our present and future--for us and others. Let's focus on the things of God and encourage others to live for Him.

Dear Mr. President!

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them. Romans 1:20, 32 NIV

As I prayed last night, I couldn't help but feel the urge by Holy Spirit to address our nation's situation with regard to legalizing sin. Therefore, I write this as an open letter to our president.

President Obama:

You have managed to accomplish much--even with an obstructionist Congress--and everything encompassed with your terms in office will be interred in history books. Some things for the good and some--a very slap in God's face.

I am not your judge and certainly not your jury, but your actions have demonstrated for many that though you may "know about God" you do not know Him. For to "know Him is to know His Word" and legalizing sin reveals lack of knowledge or "ignorance" as you stated in your address to college graduates on yesterday--about His Word. Of course, that ignorance lies in not knowing what you're talking about--as you clearly explained and regarding your position on same-sex marriage--you clearly do not know what you're talking about. I understand you "think" people should be able to love anyone they want to love, but loving is not just about lust and it is the lust of the flesh that has instigated the misguided notion by the LGBT community in their pursuits.

Let me be clear. We are told in God's Word to love all--unconditionally--but that love--is not a reference to pacifying a sexual need. I could spend an entire day writing about this, but if your heart is not in a position to receive from God, what I say won't matter. We are also told in The Word that marriage is between a man and a woman--for God's purposes, not our own. Since the enemy loves to hate what God loves, he has confused the minds of many into believing that God doesn't have a problem with sin--when He does.

In the interest of being politically correct and gaining the support of the LGBT community, you have allowed the Pandora's Box of "self-destruction" to spill over into a society that is demoralizing and rotting. The "anything goes" concept to living is wreaking havoc in the minds of children who are further confused by the notion that God makes mistakes--with their biological genders--and they have a right to change and expect the rest of us to simply accept their fickleness and confusion. God doesn't make mistakes, human beings make mistakes.

Your positions regarding the above-mentioned issues--becomes even more injurious to those who hold fast to their relationship with God when their rights are violated when they won't obey the laws of the land that are contrary to God's Word.

Before I ever knew who you were, God had inspired me to write two books pertaining to the end result of what has now occurred. I didn't understand why He wanted me to write the books, but I wrote them. Now, I understand. I'm sure you won't take the time to read them, but I'll provide you with the links anyway and the link for the one that was written after the Supreme Court decision to rebel against God. Those books are myBook.to/Normal, myBook.to/TurningForce and myBook.to/WhatJesusSaid. It's Not Normal and Turning Force were written a number of years ago, but are prophetic in nature as we can clearly see how events have unfolded. To tell people what Jesus said about "loving others" without understanding why He said anything is promoting lies. And we know that God hates liars, which is why I wrote, What Jesus Said and Why He Said It.

In the beginning, I had a great deal of respect for you and your accomplishment in being the first Black president. Now, I pray that someone will be able to water The Word in your life and eventually, you'll hear from God and ignore the tricks of the enemy. I cannot imagine how you would feel if one of your daughters was molested in a bathroom by a "pretender" who claimed to be "feeling like a woman" in order to gain access to their prey. Bullying school districts to put kids in danger is not what someone who knows God would do. And your decree about the bathrooms is a bullying tactic when you threaten to withhold federal funding from those districts.

I, like so many others, are wondering if common sense will ever make a comeback in the minds of those who lead others. So far, we have not seen much evidence of that.

Just so you know--I do not hate anyone--not those who choose to be gay or transgender--I love them enough to pray for them, but I also love God and with all I do and write, I try to please Him, more than man. That's what He has called me to do--please Him. Sometimes, pleasing God means people get angry with me and I can handle that. They don't have a heaven or hell for me so their opinions don't matter much. What does matter to me is my obedience--to teach God's Word whether it's convenient or not, whether it's received or not. He won't hold me accountable for what others do or don't do, but He will hold me accountable for what I do or don't do. All I can do is to say what He says.

We--at least some of us--as a nation will continue to pray for our country and all who lead it--that hearts will be receptive to hearing God and they will exercise Godly wisdom in all they do.

Sincerely,

Mary M. Hall-Rayford

When The Greedy Have Oversight!

As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him. When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison. Acts 24:25-27 NIV

Since we know human nature does not change, we can understand that any time someone starts talking about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come--the conversation instills fear in the unrighteous and they change the conversation so they won't feel condemned.

When faced with situations that Paul faced, we who know God and His intent for mankind, must continue to say what God says--no matter what the intent of those who have authority over us--in the natural. For no mere mortal can ever have authority over God or those who obey Him.

But in this passage we see Felix as a pretender--someone who pretended to want to know more about Paul was teaching, but in essence was really hoping that his imprisonment would keep him quiet (as far as the Jews were concerned) and would eventually end up with Felix lining his pockets in order for Paul to know freedom.

There are people who are imprisoned--in both buildings and mindsets--waiting for release and will not be bribed to go against the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Though I am not a prisoner in a building, like Paul, I count it all joy to be bound with the Good News and I will not keep silent and will not accept a bribe to be silent. I cannot be bullied into compromising my faith in God and I will not allow any authority on earth to persuade me to rebel against God.

But we know--from all we see--that has occurred with some people. Though the bribe may not have been money--instead it was support and promises of greater things to come, but the greater things will never eradicate the judgment that is sure to come--when those who live a life in opposition to God's Word and promote others in doing the same.

We shall all stand before God and give an account of what we've done with our time here on earth. I hope never to be ashamed of promoting the Gospel of Jesus and the power of forgiveness and love. I have been forgiven for those things which I did without understanding of Truth. I am loved beyond measure by my heavenly Father--who willingly died for me that I would have another chance to get living right for Him.

There is not enough money on the planet to convince me to move from my stance--total faith in the resurrection power of Jesus and the embodiment of power from Holy Spirit who dwells within me. Unfortunately, not all can say with confidence they feel the same. We see this in politicians who are willing to compromise themselves in order to gain status. We see this in people whose principles are determined by a dollar value. We see this in the church--when the leadership is more concerned about the numbers in the building that souls being saved when Truth is heard and they compromise the Gospel--to be politically correct.

Lord, help us all when we allow greed to reign over the needs of the people to know the Truth.

When Our God Reigns!

For the director of music. Of David. A psalm. A song. May God arise, may his enemies be scattered; may his foes flee before him. May you blow them away like smoke— as wax melts before the fire, may the wicked perish before God. But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful. Sing to God, sing in praise of his name, extol him who rides on the clouds; rejoice before him—his name is the LORD.A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.  Psalm 68:1-5 NIV

Though the world seems to be spinning out of control--Our God still reigns and when He reigns in the heart of His people--His enemies will be scattered.

In a home where roaches are planning a take-over--they creep everywhere in darkness, leaving their trail of germs wherever they go, but the moment a light switch is turned on, they scatter--fleeing in every direction--trying to escape the light and certain death by those who are determined to keep them at bay. Whether they are squashed or sprayed, some know there is certain death if they don't scatter and hide in the crevices of cracked plaster and peeling paint and warped floor boards.

The enemy--all those demonic forces--will scatter when we allow God to reign in our hearts because when we allow His righteousness to shine in the dark places--the enemy knows certain death is imminent. Death to addictions and temptations to sin. Death to sickness and disease that attempt to take lives before our appointed time. Death to rebellion and witchcraft exercised by those who refuse to wake up and acknowledge they are living in darkness.

In the natural, we seize the moment to rid ourselves of those things--the pests that destroy our food supplies and carry bacteria and germs--and most of us don't stop until they are all dead and gone. Our determination to rid ourselves of the pests that annoy and irritate should be as strong in the spiritual realm of our lives so we can rid ourselves of the temptations to sin against God and keep us receiving God's best.

When He reigns--in our hearts--the outcome will result in His reign over the land and when He reigns over the land, the enemy will scatter--his demonic forces--powerless as smoke in the wind and wax that melts in the heat of God's wrath. When Our God reigns there will be peace in the land and no one will suffer from lack of anything needed because the love of God, will rise in us and we take of the fatherless, the needy, vulnerable and poor.

When our God reigns we will rejoice in the victory of obedience!

His Faithfulness and Our Determination!

Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the LORD. Psalm 31:23 NKJV

Instead of being fearful, we need to be wise and courageous, knowing our God is faithful to all who love Him.

This applies to anything we do--whether in the church or anywhere else--we must know--not believe--we serve a faithful God. And when we know, we can proceed with courage to do all we need to do--knowing we will accomplish the goal.

Yesterday, as I was walking around our high school track, in the midst of a sprinkle, strong winds, and chilly temperatures, I thanked God for being faithful to us. Though the sprinkles continued, I said to Him, "Daddy, I know You love me and I thank You for moving the clouds and warming our bodies as we do this for the kids."

Within minutes, the sprinkles stopped and before long, the clouds moved and the sun shone brightly and more kids came out to participate. Although the temperature rose slightly, so did the wind, but through it all--we were determined and we stayed the course. My personal goal was to walk 20 laps (5 miles) and I walked 26 laps (6.5 miles), not because of who I am, but because of Whose I am. His faithfulness and my determination made it all possible.

God's faithfulness to us--His children--is never-ending, but what makes the difference between our experiencing victory or defeat is a matter of our own determination. It is our determination that wavers--not God's faithfulness. So if we want to see victory--in all areas of our lives--let's work on our determination to endure until the end--because His faithfulness--never wavers.

Be courageous and brave and determined in all you do and His faithfulness will bring it to pass!

Enduring Until The End!

But the one who endures to the end will be saved. Matthew 24:13 ESV
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.  I Corinthians 9:24,25 NIV

Today, I'm participating in a walk-a-thon to raise money for band camp for our students' Marching Band and it appears that we'll be walking in the rain on a cooler morning than we saw yesterday. I will dress to meet the test!.

To get ready for this event, I've been working out to a song for 20 minutes every morning and walking when weather permits. I can normally work a mile in under 20 minutes and recently have walked 2 and half miles in 40 minutes. Today, the goal is to walk 5 miles and I have at least two hours to get it done.

I wonder, if we knew how much time we had left to get living right for God, what we would do. Would we practice living right or just think by some "magical event" it would just happen?

Living right for God according to His Word is a daily exercise--physically and spiritually and the best time to start is early morning--to set the pace for the day. Get into His Word, meditate upon His Word, and then practice what you have read with all you meet and greet throughout the day. Living right for God is not going to just happen--like anything else that we value--we must practice. Exercise faith in the moment every day and watch how God will work in your lives.

Only those who endure--keeping the faith and exercising the Word--will be saved and in my case today--if I endure to the end of the time allotted--I shall reach my goal and will have earned enough from pledges to support two students for band camp.

Our God is awesome and at my age--I need His awesomeness to strengthen me at the turn of every lap until I complete my 20 laps.  Thank You, Lord for power from within and without to achieve-to Your glory!

Now Is Not The Time To Get Tired!

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:7-10 NIV

No matter what happens--locally, nationally, or globally, we must keep our focus on doing what God has called us to do--promote His love and love others.

Let's face it--none of us has any control over anything that happens in our communities, our nation and certainly not in the world at-large. What we do have is an ability to seek God and His wisdom and the power to love others--continuing to always seek what is best for all.

However, what is best for all--according to The Word--will not be what everyone wants to see, especially the enemy. For what is best for him--is for all mankind to cease to exist. Therefore, he will always stir up confusion and strife among mere mortals because he loves to see us at odds with one another. The devil wants us to hate one another because God wants us to love one another. The devil wants people confused about their gender because God has a specific purpose in making men--men and women--women (male and female). God was not confused when He created the universe or mankind nor is He the author of confusion, but we know who is.

And this is why we (who have a relationship with God) must continually, without fail or getting weary of repeating the same message--God is love and we--as human beings--can only receive His best in our lives when we choose to do things His way.

If the only thing people care about is what pleases their flesh, then they have nothing coming from God for He has said in His Word that the flesh is enmity against the Spirit. In other words--what the Spirit desires for us is what God wants, but what the flesh craves is what the flesh craves and the satisfaction is temporary at best, while the benefits from allowing Holy Spirit to lead us are eternal.

Let me say it this way--giving into fleshly desires--leads to obesity, sickness and disease, sexual depravity, addictions of all kinds and crimes of all nature--theft, murder, extortion, and more. Allowing Holy Spirit to lead us--keeps us from all harm because He wants us to do all things--decently and in order. Holy Spirit will never steer us wrong or in doing wrong and when we get tired--weak from fighting against the demonic forces we face on a daily basis--He is right there--empowering us to keep going and we find we can accomplish more in His strength than in our own.

This then is what we must remind ourselves on a daily basis--God is not fooled by anything the devil influences anyone to do. He is not fooled by fake conciliatory pronouncements by foolish politicians; He is not fooled by the phony rhetoric designed to deceived others; He is not fooled by anything and the only thing the devil does is to make himself in those he has influenced. The devil is a master of deception, but those who know God can spot the deception because we know The Word.

Remember the enemy works to defeat all God loves and when we get tired--physically and spiritually--he's ready to pounce to convince us our efforts are in vain. Our efforts in promoting The Gospel of Jesus Christ are never in vain and when we feel we're getting weary, we need to be refreshed and restored, by constant re-visiting of The Word. We can do all things through Him who loves us and with Him, nothing is impossible! He will not withhold any good gift from those He loves and no weapon--not fear or tiredness or anything else--formed against us shall prosper. Nothing the enemy attempts to do to deter us will work. We have victory in Jesus!

God's Approval or Man's Approval?

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth. But avoid irreverent, empty speech, for this will produce an even greater measure of godlessness.2 Timothy 2:15,16 HCSB

When we know we are doing all things according to God's approval, not the approval of man, we can maintain our focus and never waiver in our faith. However, attempting to obtain the approval of men and women is a never-ending endeavor that will never compete with the approval of God.

Needing the approval of people means we are constantly changing--who we are, what we do, and how we do things. And every time we meet someone new that we think we need to impress, the vicious cycle begins again--changing to accommodate people.

In our society, we see the end results of trying to obtain the approval people. We are thrown into courtrooms with lawsuits that are ridiculous--man's need to force others to accept their changing, fickle feelings about who they are and which bathroom they use.

The enemy's hold on the minds of people is surreal--and for those who know Christ, we know who's behind every whim of others trying to be someone else. In the beginning, God! That settles it. God made man biologically fit to be compatible with woman and any time, man has attempted to change God's purpose for mankind it was because of the enemy's hatred for everything God created.

And the saddest part is that children are bewitched by the media, movies, television, and music applauding changing genders in midstream, never to know God's best in their lives. My heart is heavy and saddened every time I see young girls holding onto each other as a couple instead of just friends. I pray that deliverance will soon come, but unfortunately when sin is running rampant within and without the school systems, my prayers may be in vain.

Celebrating sin--no matter who's involved--opens the door for all types of demonic spirits to take control of feeble, weak minds and convince them of things that are not true. This is what happens when we coin terms like "political correctness" and ignore "Godly righteousness. This need to obtain the approval of the masses rather than God--leads to destruction rather than victory and no court in the land will be able to stem the flow of God's wrath.

Since my desire is to please God and gain His approval, I will continue to say what God says and attempt to convince others of His love by loving them unconditionally, but teaching them the Truth of God's Word. If people choose not to receive truth, then their destruction is on them, but if I or others who know truth, refuse to teach truth, then the destruction of others is laid at our feet.

When we belong to Christ, we have His approval and have nothing to prove to men or women who are mere mortals as we are. God first--and all else will fall into place.

Do We Really Trust The Lord?

Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:10 NIV
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. Psalm 13:5 NIV
Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. Psalm 20:7 NIV
In you our ancestors put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. Psalm 22:4 NIV
But I trust in you, LORD; I say, “You are my God.” Psalm 31:14 NIV
But you, God, will bring down the wicked into the pit of decay; the bloodthirsty and deceitful will not live out half their days. But as for me, I trust in you. Psalm 55:23 NIV
in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me? Psalm 56:11 NIV
Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8 NIV

There are so many passages from the bible that address the issue of trust that I could not begin to expound on them all. But in the midst of anxiety over local, national, and world events, we need to remember that since we have no control over these things, we must learn to trust God in all things.

Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. Psalm 146:3 NIV But do Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; Proverbs 3:5 NIV

If we truly believe that God has a plan and His plan is for our good, then we need not be overly anxious about anything we hear or see in the media. We need not be concerned about the elections (we do need to seek God, hear Him and vote in obedience to Him, not the sensationalism in the media); we need not be concerned about the terrorists for God also has a plan for them; and we need not fear anything, but stand firm on God's Word, living it on a daily basis.

If we trust Him, we won't be afraid of the outcomes; if we don't trust Him, then our lives will be overwhelmed with anxiety and fear about everything going on around us.

We must be aware of events in our midst so we'll know how to pray and what to do when opportunity presents itself for us to act. And we must act--do something--for faith without works is dead (worthless). But what we do should only be direction of Holy Spirit who knows more than we shall ever know. Our actions should not be rash, without giving thought to all possible scenarios, but led by Holy Spirit who knows how to direct our steps and to keep us from falling into the pits and snares the enemy has set for us.

Let's face it--with all we know and have learned--there is too much more for us to know to think we know it all. Trusting God means we acknowledge our shortcomings and allow Him to be God of our lives.

Riding Out The Storms!

Calling all West Virginians! Enjoy this second part of a romantic alliance established by God. Though Cal and D'Cerner know their assignment and they love each other, one is tempted beyond measure and the other's doubts lead to the loss of life. Here's rocking it with hometown girl who loves small communities!  THANKS LONDON COMMUNITY FOR CREATING MEMORIES!

Appearances Matter!

Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:21,22 KJV

If we care about what others think and we should--to a point--but more importantly, we should care about what God thinks about what we do. People tend to judge "what they see" without considering other factors, but God knows--our thoughts and our hearts--and certainly our intent.

With all of the uproar and media attention spotlighting --any person or place at any time--it would be the height of foolishness to attempt to do anything that is remotely wrong. Common sense--exercised far too little--needs to be exercised in all we do. Just one false move--or seemingly false move can create chaos and confusion and lead to the demise of jobs and reputations.

Why do we do it? We forget that appearances--matter to all who are looking and sometimes, those appearances, color perceptions. This is why it is important for all Believers to know that others watching us, will judge us--rightly or wrongly--and determine whether we are credible or not.

Unless The Lord directs our steps into certain venues--we should avoid them so they won't taint our testimonies. Not one Believer should ever be seen in a strip-club, a drug house, or entertaining the moguls of ungodliness in any venue.

Not one Believer should ever put themselves into a position to be falsely accused of anything--adultery, fornication, theft, mismanagement or any other thing that could deter the unbelieving from making a decision for Christ.

If we do all things--with the understanding that God sees and knows all and we care about what He thinks of us--we can avoid the pitfalls and snares that the enemy sets for us, but allowing Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts and we obey.

For every foul-mouthed individual out there (and there are many), we tend to judge presumptuously, but judgment is the end result for we know that corrupt communications, corrupt good manners. A person may be a "good person" but if they cannot control their mouths--some of us will never know it.

I'm guilty of assessing situations and coming up with the wrong answers. And because of my assessments of people, I tend to stay away from certain groups because I care what God thinks about me--I'm avoiding the appearance of evil. However, I have also concluded that just because I find myself in the presence of people who do not know--how God wants them to live--I do not have to become like them in order to be a light to them. After all, it is not my job to judge people (I can judge sin as can all Believers and we should) and therefore, if I remove myself from every situation in which people are involved, I limit opportunity for God to rise in me for them to see Him.

When we're not sure of what we should do, we should seek God--prayerfully and know that He is faithful and just and will never steer us in the wrong direction. If we end up on the wrong path trying to do the right thing, we need to seek the right path and get back to where God would have us.

And here is the most important thing to remember, "If we only do the right thing, we never have to worry about doing the wrong thing."  In the greater scheme of life, appearances do matter, so we must watch what we say and do.

Where Are They?

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first .After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words. I Thessalonians 4:13-18 NIV

If we truly want to comfort others when they lose a loved one--we should use God's Word--instead of our traditional responses that are not based upon truth.

Yesterday, someone told me (in a response to something I said about my deceased mother) our moms are watching over us. Now, I know this is a common response used by people to comfort others or themselves and if I did not know The Word, I'd buy into it. However, since I do know The Word and I know that, "the dead know nothing" I cannot promote an untruth based upon God's Word--not my opinion.

When I reminded the person about God's Word, I was told, "everyone has their own opinion and her mom was watching over her."

Here's the thing--everyone does have an opinion about so many things, but when it comes to the things of God--shouldn't we say what God says and not espouse our opinions? I am and will to the best of my ability always say what God says, even when it seems that I'm aloof or a bit cold. I am neither. I'm simply trying to do what I'm told--by God in His Word--and I'm breaking the chains of tradition wherever I find them. If people want to be misled and shackled to traditions--that's their option. I choose not to do so.

So, while I cannot put anyone in heaven who has gone before me--I cannot say with certainty where anyone is. I know--because of The Word--that when we die, our spirits go back to God who gave them, our bodies return to the dust from which it came and our soul awaits judgment (Ecclesiastes 12)--when Christ returns. I don't know when we'll rise after He returns or when we'll be judged, but I do know--when He returns--those who died in Christ--knowing Him--will rise first and we'll be taken up with them. Whether I'm here or not when Christ returns remains to be seen. I am assured of this one thing and so can others be--my mansion in heaven is reserved and one day--I shall inhabit it as promised in The Word.

I'm praying that soon we'll be able to tell people the truth and stop lying to them when a loved one dies. We cannot put them in heaven or hell--that's a judgment call that we cannot make for them--only God can--based upon their relationship (or none) with Him. As much as I'd like to believe my mother is watching over us--I know she's not and I'm okay with that. I hold her memories in my heart and soon in what I write. Whether I'll know her or not when we all get to heaven is not as important as knowing we'll be there--at the same time.

Instead of lying to people (and telling them someone has gone on to glory is a lie), let's comfort and encourage people with God's Word. "Though they sleep in death right now, when Christ returns, they shall rise first and we who are yet live shall join them."And while we wait for that glorious day, let's keep their memories alive in our hearts to enjoy them any time we want.