No Reason For Shame With Hope in God!

"And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." (Romans 5:5 NIV)

Though there are many who attempt to belittle those who not only believe God, but also live to please God, we who know God, understand,  and we are not ashamed of our hope in Him.

Why hope in God when it appears that all is lost--when spouses kill each other, when man overrides God's intent for marriage and family, when politicians are corrupt, and violence erupts all around us and the weather is taking its toll on people everywhere? Why hope in God?

I have had some to question my faith by asking why would I believe in a God who allows such terrible things to happen, especially to children. The question they should have asked is, why do "people choose" to do such dastardly things to children and to others?

Terminal illnesses are not caused by God, they are a result of man's greed and inability to make good choices. Most illnesses are the result of what we ingest--voluntarily--or involuntarily and what we breathe in the air. Every time someone comes up with a new idea that is primarily seen as a convenience, we learn--sometimes years later--just how much that convenience costs us in human lives. From the preservatives in foods to sustain shelf-life to the use of cell phones and other oil by-products. It is not God who does these things. We choose to participate because it is convenient to do so and for the most part, most of us have little opportunity to change how we eat or have access to alternative products.

Personal hygiene products, medications, and clothing using recycled materials as well as air pollutants and water pollutants--big industry--lost lives--all because of greed and convenience. This is what happens when we have hope in man and what they do.

Hope in God--sustains the Believer--in spite of all the stuff going on around us--even to the hope of healing and finding means to overcome all the ills we have brought upon ourselves. Hope in God keeps the Believer focused on the things of God and in constant communication with Him through the auspices of prayer. Hope in God--does not make us ashamed of our belief in Him; it strengthens us so we might continue to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For we know that no matter what we suffer here on earth, we have a great reward waiting for us for all eternity.

No--our hope in God is not something we should be ever be ashamed about and as long as we have men who are greedy and proceed with the production of "things" without seeking God's Wisdom before they make them, we will pray and expect God to keep us safe from harm of all the "conveniences" we use that could lead to an early earthly death.

While we enjoy the products of man's invention, let us not have so much hope in them that we forget to have real hope in God, who has yet to abandon us to our own self-destruction. Hope in God--gives us reason to keep moving forward--in spite of all the attempts by man to override God's intent for man--in so much of what they do.

Hope in God--trumps hope in man--every time--and the real shame is on man who refuses to live according to God's plan for mankind.

Hear Our Prayer, O Lord!

"I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer." (Psalm 17:6 NIV)

Father,

We come before You this day,
Seeking Your Wisdom in all we say,
Knowing that You and You alone,
Have the solution to every problem.

Help us O God, to see You in all we do.
Help us to stay on the path You set us upon.
Help us to hear You when You speak.
Help us to understand why we need You in our lives.
Help us to see the need of others and address it.
Help us to keep Your Word as the focus of our living,
And keep our hearts far from the influence of the enemy.

Create in us O God a desire to know You more,
Wanting nothing more than to live a life pleasing to You.
We know Your eyes are in every place,
Seeing the good and the evil.

We know You are not a man that You should lie,
And that You are God and You never change.

Lord, touch bodies and heal and make them whole,
From the crowns of the heads to the soles of the feet,
Every joint and muscle free from pain,
Blood flowing smoothly in every artery and vein,
Pure without infection or disease, every bacteria that is bad,
Reduced to nothing and can harm no one.

Lord, touch our minds with renewed energy and life,
And a willingness to think about all You've taught,
So we can what is right before all mankind.
Lord, renew our spirits with a fresh infilling of Yours,
And help us to stay re-charged, energized, ready to spread,
The love You have for us and the glorious Gospel message.

Lord, give us the courage we need to be as bold as a lion,
When confronted with the enemy, and yet as gentle as a lamb,
When teaching and correcting others in all things, You.
Lord, touch our minds and remove everything that keeps us
From hearing and obeying You, all the days of our lives.

Lord, protect those in the military and provide for their families,
Instill in them, new hope and faith in You for the care of their loved ones.

Lord, speak to the hearts of every politician and elected official, guide
Them in all things and remind them to make wise decisions for all people.

Lord, wipe out hatred and bigotry in the hearts of all who hate
And fill them to overflowing with Your love, so none are deceived by Satan,
Who hates--You and all You created.

Lord, in the midst of the storms and trials of life,
Help us stand--firmly, immoveable on Your Word, never swayed,
Never doubting Your intent for mankind and all You have said.

Grant us victory in daylight hours in all we do and peace--
Your peace that surpasses all understanding as we sleep,
Resting, waiting for the light of a new day, ready to enjoy You and
All You do for those who love You in obedience to Your Word.

We thank You for hearing and answering our prayers and
We praise You for there is none like You in all the earth,
You are the only wise God--awesome in all your ways.
All this we ask and receive in Jesus' name.
                                                            Amen!

Getting Through Narrow Spaces--Requires Adjustment!

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matthew 7: 13,14 NIV)

Are you trying to get through the narrow path or are you the travelling the wide path?

When we think of something being narrow--small space--we understand single file marching. After all, if a group of people trying to get to a destination is confronted with a narrow opening, they have to make adjustments in order for all to get through it. A bit like elementary school when teaching kids to walk to the right--they walk in a single file line--and though they learn this lesson early, it's amazing how many forget it when they move onto high school and even the world. For some reason, as they mature, they seem to forget the "walk to the right" rule and wander aimlessly, pushing, shoving, and never mindful of those who do remember the rule. They chose the "wide path" because it appeared to have more room and they thought they did not need to make an adjustment to get through it.

Think of a group of people trying to get through a subway gate at the same time. It won't work--the space is too narrow for more than one person to get through at a time. Most people know this so they adjust their positions, even when travelling with friends because they understand the need for adjustment.

The need to adjust is certainly true for those who are on the road to heaven. The space is narrow (and sometimes we are called 'narrow-minded' for our views) and we have to make adjustments--walking single-file because our walk with Jesus--is an individual event, not a group one. We understand who He is, why He came, and know that He only said what the Father told Him to say, never changing anything the Father said, but encouraging all to love all as the Father loves us.

Those who choose the broad way--making room for others to walk arm-in-arm are not going to make it into heaven because they have chosen the opposite direction. On this path, we'll find all sorts of opposition to God's Word and everything is a party, everything to be enjoyed with anyone at any time. There are no rules, just jostling others out of the way to get where they want to be. They do not understand that judgement is not a group event, but an individual one and they think they'll party with their friends for all eternity.

I know how those on the broad path think. I used to be one and whenever someone threatened me with hell for all eternity, I was foolish enough to say, "Well, I guess it'll be a party since everyone I know is headed the same way." What an idiotic thing to say, now that I know better. Unfortunately, some people haven't figured it out yet and they're still saying the same type of foolish things.

When I made the adjustment to follow the narrow path, I had to shake loose some folks--move away from them since they didn't think the path I'd chosen was right for them. I adjusted my thinking, my behavioral habits--what I read, what I write, the music I play, the movies I watch, the people I hang out with--and know I am on the right path--the narrow path that leads to eternal life.

Those on the broad path think life is all about them and what they want--never understanding how much God loves us, why He was willing to die for us and never caring to make any adjustments in their lives that involve giving up fleshly desires. And their god--Satan--has managed to keep the blinders on them, leading them here and there, everywhere, without purpose or focus, keeping them on the route--to end in the lake of fire.

If we want to please God and see Heaven--and want our loved ones and friends to see the same--we must "adjust" and walk single-file--to the right--staying out of harm's way, not crowding others, but focused on seeing Him and living the life He designed for us. "Adjust!"

What's Growing In Your Garden?

“I am against you,” declares the LORD Almighty. “I will lift your skirts over your face. I will show the nations your nakedness and the kingdoms your shame." (Nahum 3:5 NIV)

Who is the Lord against? The inhabitants of Ninevah who were living in opposition to God's Will.
Jonah was sent to Ninevah to warn them they were about to face the wrath of God and the people repented, but later turned back to the ways of evil and the city was destroyed.

That was then, this is now. Is there a place or people to whom the Lord is saying, "I am against you?"
Before I answer this question, let me explore how history is repeating itself. Many have warned the nations against their wicked ways, but most have refused to listen. Throughout man's history, whenever flesh dictated reason, people lived outside the will of God. Many were the prophets who spoke what God gave them and though some heard them, many did not and because the prophets spoke against evil and wickedness, many of them were killed. They were killed by those in authority who did not wish to stop wickedness--primarily that of worshipping idol gods which included sexual immorality and sacrificing of children.

Small wonder these practices continued since those in charge were evil incarnate. Moving to the 21st century, do we not have those in authority who are more concerned about appeasing man's fleshly appetites for evil than God's Will? Absolutely! Not much has changed when fleshly dictates override the spirit--the constant war between flesh and spirit--good and evil--and those who promote evil--living in opposition to God, will have much to answer for in the end.

Now, back to the question as to whether or not God is saying He is against some.  Yes, He is and we who know The Word--have a right relationship with Him--know this and are warning the nations, but once again, not many are listening. And once again, we shall see the wrath of God--His removal of His hand of protection--from all who are against Him--and He knows those who are His Children. All we need to do is go back and review history--not just the Bible, but remember the bible is a summary of the history of man.

Either we are for God--living according to His Word or we are against Him--living in opposition to His Word. God knows where we stand and so do we--if we're honest with ourselves. Of course, those who are influenced by the god of this world--are blinded to the Truth of God's Word and they have managed to spread evil like wind-blown seed into high places, planting more evil everywhere the seed lands.

It is time for the gardeners--to pluck up the weeds of evil--and plant the seeds of goodness, righteousness, and love for God and His people. Wherever we see the seeds of evil sprouting, we pluck them up and replace them with God's Truth for His love is shed abroad in our hearts and because we love Him, we obey Him.

Now, who do you think God will be against? The gardeners of righteousness or those who deliberately plant seeds of evil? We do have a choice and it's time to make the right one if we plan to reign with Jesus. Today, not tomorrow, is the time for change in what we plant.

A Title Means Nothing If The Role Is Not Fulfilled!

"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." (I Peter 5:2,3 NIV)

What does a good shepherd or a good leader do?

Being a good shepherd and being a good leader--in anything--means that the people are more important than the title. There are many people in leadership positions in churches who hold titles--pastor, bishop, apostle--and few of them are actually shepherds. How do we recognize them?

The shepherd realizes that those in the congregation are "not his/her people" but they have been given the responsibility to watch over the flock--feed them God's Word, correct them when they go astray, warn about impending dangers, and provide them direction and instruction they can use to teach others. How many church leaders are actually doing this? Many are more concerned about how "they can influence others with their sound or things they amass" and never take the time to get to know those in their congregation or what they need.

I remember being in a meeting that was not being held in a church when the man who was the pastor of the church I attended came in late, needing to be seen, and announced that he knew his flock. But he didn't recognize me as a member. I didn't say a word, but that struck a chord in me. He wasn't interested in serving the needs of the people because he didn't know what the people needed. Not long after that meeting, I left that church when bizarre behavior starting ruling.

The same is true for leaders of other non-church groups. Some people only want leadership positions because of a title. Titles mean absolutely nothing if the person holding the title is not fulfilling the duties. I've recently been involved with a parent-organization for the high school my grandson attends and discovered that the reigning president has not fulfilled their duties from the outset, but is now angry they were voted out of office. They were not interested in "doing the role" they obtained, but only in being a position they could use to bully others. What I don't understand is why. Holding a title means nothing and impresses no one if people don't do the job that goes with the title.

These have not been good examples for anyone; especially the children in knowing how to be a good leader and even more important in how to demonstrate good sportsmanship when losing--an election or a game. No character--no grace; no grace--no room for entitled personalities--who do nothing but create problems for others.

If what we do on any level is not done from pure motives--it will not succeed. God knows the heart and He watches all we do and He hears everything we say. We cannot hide from Him and when He exposes a person's true character, they can no longer hide from people.

In a position of leadership--we must always question our motives for being there and when we are incapable of fulfilling the role of that position, we must leave it to those who are capable and will do.

Take Us To The Rock!

"From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I." (Psalm 61:2 NIV)

At any place, at any time
A Believer calls to God, He hears.
He responds to our call
And calms all of our fears,
Knowing we trust Him, The Rock.

Throughout many scriptures in the Bible, we see the reference to a rock and in Deuteronomy 32:4, the reference states, "He is the Rock."

What is a rock and what does it do? A rock is a hard surface that withstands the tests of time--the rain, the snow, the sleet, the hail--all that nature throws at it--it survives and thrives, remaining as steadfast as the mountains it forms. We know that certain rocks are more porous than others and they don't withstand the elements as well as those rocks that are solid as granite.

My husband and I often play "Frisbee Golf" on our WII and I am always amazed at the graphic designer to created a scene with towering rocks that almost look like dinosaurs standing guard. They are high and provide shelter and shade from the bright sunshine designed into the game. And I think of Jesus--the solid rock--the immoveable rock, the strong tower that provides us refuge, whenever we play the game.

When we know who we have and what He will do for us--we can see Him in almost anything we do--and not just in a bible or in a building--but all around us, we see proof of His existence and The Word becomes alive for us. We can call upon Him--from any place at any time and He hears us. We can expect His protection from the enemy at any turn when we call upon Him and we can run to the Rock--His ever-abiding shelter--to protect us from the elements and keep us from harm.

Of course, for anyone to actually know who He is and what He will do for us, we must discover Him in The Word--from Genesis to Revelation--and develop a right relationship with Him, out of obedience to all He says--Love God and Love others--and then we can with assurance know--He will be our Rock.

Lord, open our hearts and minds to receive revelation knowledge through Your Word and embed that Word in our very beings so we will not sin against You. Create in us a desire to please You in all things and not man who is so fickle they change from moment to moment. You are our Solid Rock and we cling to You--for comfort and shelter from all harm and we thank You for being who You are in our lives.

We Are His Treasured Possession!

"Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine," (Exodus 19:5 NIV)

To obey God "fully" is to acknowledge His authority in all things and to simply, just do it! There is no other way that we can see ourselves as His treasured possession, chosen specifically by Him, and given favor so all the nations shall see us as His.

Of course obeying God comes with a price tag that many of us already understand. It means we withstand the ridicule and derision of those who think they know than God--who are actually the Godless and we know them by their behavior. We are belittled by those who attempt to derail everything we say because of their own insecurities, guilt, and self-hatred. We stand up to their accusations of hate because we know it is not us who hate--when we are filled with the love of God--there is no room for hatred, but watch how they personalize attacks against those who dare to stand up for Truth and Righteousness according to God's Word and not our opinions.

Yes, there is a price to be paid for obeying God and some are paying with their lives when they refuse to recant their faith in God. These are the true heroes of faith in Christ Jesus. Those who will not turn back or turn away from serving an all-wise God, though physical death may be the end result, God's reward for obedience is greater than the hatred of those who will not hear Him and obey.

Yesterday, as I often do, I commented on an article in the New York Times regarding Ireland's referendum. Part of the caption to the article started, "love prevails..." and that is what caught my attention. My comment, "Too bad many cannot distinguish between love and lust," and it triggered so much vitriol that I was truly amazed. Hatred spewed from the fingers of many who replied and I just sat in wonderment watching them, thankful that I have so much of God's love within that I never went into attack mode as they did.

This is when we know we are His treasured possession--when we can respond to someone attacking us, without attacking in return. I am so thankful to God that He has chosen me to be His, curbs my tongue and my fingers when the godless attack and propels me to show them respect for their opinions, even when they won't respect mine.

When we are filled with His goodness, we recognize those who are hurting because their hatred directed at us, is without merit. They react out of guilt and self-hatred and when we dare to say anything that is remotely different from what they think--they attack. I truly feel sorry for them and I'm praying that they will eventually see the need to know God and be set free from the hatred that holds them so tightly. They fail to understand that it is not us--the Believers who obey God--who hate them, but them who hate us because we dare to believe God and obey Him.

This world is in need of much prayer for all--the saved and unsaved, but while we wait for the unsaved to get a revelation of God's love, we can rest in the knowledge that we are His treasured possession. Keep praying!

The First Death Is Just The Beginning!

"Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

Unless Jesus returns before we take our final breath, we will die (or fall asleep) and our end will only be for the earthly measurement of time. The heavenly measurement of time begins when He returns and all the dead in Him (those who died believing Him to be their Savior) shall rise at the sound at the trumpet and they shall be judged first.

It is not the first death that we need to concern ourselves while we live. It is the second death--the assignment of eternal resting place--in heaven reigning with Jesus or in the lake of fire, being tormenting continually for eternity.

While I know there are those who do not believe in heaven or hell, according to God's Truth they do exist and in the end, we'll all discover their existence. But while we wait for the end to come, we must know that our final resting place for eternity is determined by what we do while we have breath to live. Notice what John says, about who ends up in the lake of fire.

"The cowardly--those who are always fearful because they do not know that love casts out fear. The fearful do not know love for it they did, they would not fear. The unbelieving--those who refuse to accept God's existence so they can do whatever their flesh dictates. The vile--those who do every imaginable evil thing they can without concern about how their actions impact others. The murderers--those who have no respect for life and consistently are responsible for the deaths of others. The sexually immoral--those who use sex as a tool for pleasure with anybody and everybody without discrimination or adherence to God's plan for sex. Those who practice magic--misusing gifts of discernment and abilities given by God for monetary gain or fame. The idolators--those who worship things made by the hands of man or people--holding the things and people in higher esteem than God. The liars--those who twist and malign truth (especially God's Truth) for their own personal agendas in order to influence others into doing what is pleasing in their own sight--totally ignoring God's plan for man." All these--when they have chosen to do these things--will end up in the lake of fire, unless they choose to live as God desires before the first death.

No person--can send another to hell and God won't either. The eternal resting place in which we end up is determined by what we do when we are alive, having the ability to choose and choose wrongly. Every person--believer and unbeliever--chooses their final destination and they have no one to blame but themselves.

No matter how our end comes the first time--illness, accident, war, acts of violence or old age, our greatest concern should be the second death.

A Changing World--Live With The Rayfords

Wonderful day of talking to our listeners http://www.blogtalkradio.com/maryandtyrone/2015/05/21/a-changing-world-live-with-the-rayfords check us out and see for yourself.

God Still Has True Prophets Speaking His Truth!

"They have chosen their own ways, and they delight in their abominations; so I also will choose harsh treatment for them and will bring on them what they dread. For when I called, no one answered, when I spoke, no one listened. They did evil in my sight and chose what displeases me.” (Isaiah 66:3b,4 NIV)

When the prophet spoke to the those who were willing to listen, he revealed God's thoughts and declarations and promises. And this is the role of a prophet--to hear God and speak what God says--not what they want to say.

One of the reasons the children of Israel did not want to listen to any of God's prophets is because they spoke God's Truth rather than tell the people what they wanted to hear. It's not always easy telling people the truth; especially when they choose to not hear it and then get angry because someone dared to speak truth. When the king had enough of Isaiah prophesying against all the evil they were doing, he ordered Isaiah to be cut in half--like they cut up the bulls for sacrifice.

In the face of all this persecution and ultimate death, not many people wanted to tell the people what God said out of fear. That was then and it is still true. People would rather pacify others than speak God's Truth out of fear of persecution from those in leadership positions. We who know God, hear God and love Him have no need to fear anyone else. They can only kill the body, not our souls or keep us from receiving our just rewards from God.

Is there anyone out there who God is speaking to but afraid to say what God says? Are we yet willing to hear, but don't want to upset the apple cart or care too much about what others will think of us? Is there anybody left on the planet who is as bold and courageous as the devil, willing to speak up when they hear God?

There are a few people who are bold enough to say what God says--no matter what others may think. I see them what they have to say on Twitter without anonymous profile pictures. I see them on Facebook, and Tumblr, and Google. We are here to stay and we have no fear of those who choose to live in opposition to God's Word and we don't care what their title is or what their position in government is--WE WILL SAY WHAT GOD SAYS AND BE JUDGED BY HIM AND HIM ALONE!

Every morning, the first thing I do is to read what God has said and then He speaks to my heart and I respond by writing an explanation, exegesis, poem, analysis, or whatever anyone wants to call my blogs. This is the will of God for me and I will continue to do it as long as I have life since my life belongs to Him. When people choose to live outside the will of God, they choose the consequences for disobedience and when they will not hear or heed God's people warning them, their just reward is all they can get. Those of us who love God, love people enough to tell them the truth, and not just what they want to hear.  And we will keep saying what God says, whether people want to hear it or not!

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."

How often do we have an opportunity to do good? As often as we wake up, we have opportunity to do good--even if it is something as simple as smiling and offering an encouraging word to someone else.

Therefore, let's look for opportunity to do good--always, for all people, but especially for those of the household of faith--those followers of Jesus Christ who will not back down from standing firm on God's Word.

We can encourage our children.

We can encourage our spouses.

We can encourage our neighbors.

We can watch out for our senior citizens and make sure no one is taking advantage of them or we can do some of those things they have difficulty doing--yard work, driving, shopping, etc.

We can get involved as a volunteer in our school districts, our churches, our communities--doing whatever we can do to help make life a little easier for someone else.
Sometimes, a phone call is all that is necessary to let someone know we are thinking about them, care about them and to see if they need anything.

I'm not saying that Believers should be doormats or used indiscriminately. We should always be wise as a serpent, but gentle as a dove, doing all things to please God, not us or to impress people.

Whenever we question our own motives for the things we do, we should ask ourselves, "Would this please God or do I have a hidden agenda?" We need to be honest with ourselves. If love is not our motive for doing the things we do, we should not do them.

When we know what we do pleases God, it becomes easier to do and we keep looking for opportunities to do good.

Everything Done in Order!

"But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way." (I Corinthians 14:40 NIV)

Paul's advice to the church to maintain order in all things is an approach we should use in every aspect of our lives. If there is no order, there is chaos and confusion; where there is chaos and confusion, God is not involved.

The first thing we need to keep in order is our thought life. Chaotic and confusing thoughts lead to behaviors that are not orderly. This is why we have so violence in our society and disrespect/disregard for life. There is no order in the minds of those committing hateful acts against others.

If we get our thought life in order, our actions will represent how we think--order--in all things.
If we get our behavior in order, we reduce crime and hateful acts and create an environment for harmony and peace which is how God wants us to live.

When we are in order--our homes are in order--everything is done decently and in order. There is no domestic violence in the home, there is no filth in the home, there is nothing going on in homes that will negatively impact children and their ability to succeed in life. Spouses know how to communicate and parents know how to parent when homes are in order.

When home lives are in order--we have order in society since every home is part of society. We change things for the better and do what is always right.

When we live in an orderly society, the results are seen in everything that occurs within that society and all people are respected and all things are accomplished in an orderly manner, without confusion.

Though many think the Scriptures are an out-dated reference for living, if people were to examine what we do on a daily basis in business and government, they would discover the Biblical foundation for how things get done. In time we deter from the foundation, things crumble and fall. If we listen carefully to well-known motivational speakers--what they say has biblical foundation, most from Proverbs. Parliamentary procedure was born out of Paul's advice for order and just about every legal organization uses Robert's Rules of Order as a guide for keeping "order" in meetings.

Having order in our lives means we work on the front end, establishing guidelines to maintain order and then we simply abide by the order established. Order in the church, homes, government, will lead to peace and harmony, when maintained.

Perseverance In Faith Just To Hear, "Well Done!"

"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." (1 Peter 1:6,7 NIV)

When we're feeling a little put upon with the burdens of the world, persecuted for our faith in God and what He says, we can review what Peter is saying to the new Christians and know our suffering is not in vain. Now, according to Peter, the trials come to establish and prove our genuine faith--a faith worth more than gold--in all God says and we stand firm on The Word. When Jesus returns--there will be a celebration of our determination to stand firm in our faith, resulting in praise, glory, and honor--standing before Him and hearing--"Well done my faithful servant." I can hear Him now! Hallelujah!

All that I've done will be judged and just the thought of knowing I can hear those words, makes me want to do and be better about everything I do in the name of The Lord! I can look forward to seeing Him--face-to-face--without fear of what He's going to say. What a wonderful feeling! Knowing that I will eventually hear--well done--makes dealing with the trials of life more palatable.

Here is an answer for the naysayers about the "whys" of God. He has a purpose for everything that Believers go through and within His purpose, grace and mercy will abound and see us through the trials so we will praise Him. Jesus told us--The Believers--that in the world, we would have trials and persecutions, but not to worry because He has overcome the world (John 16:33).

Being an overcomer is not necessarily an easy task, but it is a worthwhile venture. We are all overcomers--we stand in faith upon what God says and will not be deterred by popular opinion or political correctness--and because of our stance, many will deride and belittle our faith, but glory to God, let them--they too shall have their just reward. Thank You, Lord for helping us to stay in position for victory, no matter how tiresome or weary the battle is for we know--we are more than conquerors in all things and You have already defeated the enemy who influences those who are slaves to their flesh. Hallelujah!

This Unseen God is The Only One Worthy of Praise!

"For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end." (Psalms 48:14 NIV)

Throughout the history of mankind, because we were created with a spirit of worship within, man has found something to worship--something they could attribute events they did not understand. This desire to worship was really the basis of the downfall of many civilizations and why God made it clear that He would not tolerate His people--His chosen, worshipping false gods who had no power.

We have to understand that myths are created out of the minds of people who witness events, but cannot explain why they happen. For the most part, it is this desperation to explain things that many do not understand the God of Heaven who created all things and so they insist that He is a myth, powerless, like the other pagan gods and goddesses.

Throughout the Bible--a summarized record of some historical events--we see the reference to pagan gods and goddesses. Asherah, Astarte, and Ashtaroth are three of the chief goddesses mentioned in the bible and many a statue or image was made of them for people to worship. El (chief high god) and Baal were the chief pagan gods. And then there was Diana--who was worshipped by those in Ephesus. A study of the gods and the "powers" attributed to them is interesting, but what is even more interesting is the fact that all of these "gods and goddesses" had stone or metal images made by the hands of man and people then worshipped the works of their hands.

In the 21st Century, with all of the knowledge we have access to and all the technological advances made in creating "things," we are still worshipping the works of our hands more than the Creator who made all things and without Him, nothing--including us--was ever made.

But in this Psalm, the sons of Korah understood that in spite of the many gods that people worshipped and no matter what powers they attributed to them, they were no match for "This God." The Lord God Almighty, Jehovah Jireh, El Shaddai, no matter what name we call Him, He is still God and without Him, nothing would ever be. And they knew and understood, "this God" and His power could not be contained in an object and therefore, there was no need to create pillars, temples, idols of any kind in order to worship Him--they understood that there was a power greater than anything they could imagine that keeps the water flowing, the sun shining, the earth rotating and by His Spirit--they saw miracles and won battles because others feared and revered --"the unseen God."

This unseen God led armies into battle and the weaker armies won. This God, promised to never leave us and is always by our side. This God, by His spirit, communicates with us and leads us out of danger and loves us--in spite of us. This God--our great and awesome God, will always guide us--to the ends of our lives when we are willing to listen to Him and obey. This God holds the power of life and death and is watching over the universe and never misses anything that happens. He sees and hears all. What a mighty God we serve. He and He alone is worthy of our praise and with all of the things we could make--nothing will ever hold the power He has in His little finger--and therefore, we should not worship anything we create with our hands or machines or anything else, but in the spirit.

Hallelujah to our Awesome God!

The Good Works Will Be Accomplished!

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

No matter what our position or status was when we were born, once we come to recognize Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, we are privileged to benefit from God's intent for us--to do good works and those works He created in advance.

If we remember, Jeremiah 29:11--through the prophet we're told that God knows the plans He has for us--plans to prosper us and not to harm us so we will have future with hope. When our faith is in Him and what He can do, we have no need to fear the future--whether we can see the outcome or not. Faith--is knowing that no matter what we see in the natural, God will accomplish through us, all He has planned for us.

For this reason, those who were born poor and underprivileged, have just as much right to expect great things from God as those who were born rich and privileged. God is not a respecter of person--His plans are not determined by bloodline or affiliation of religions, but by our obedience to Him.

One of the tools the enemy uses against people is their lack of vision, ability, or faith to get beyond the moment. The enemy influences people to become discouraged and defeated and knocks them out of the running of receiving the prize that God has waiting for them at the finish line. We see this in those who abuse alcohol and drugs--trying to fill a void in their life, when the void can be filled with the love and joy of Jesus Christ. The beauty of being filled with His love is the only after effect is a desire to love others, even when they are unlovable. There are no hangovers that leave a person feeling nauseous or weak, but a constant, exuberant high--that never needs to end with we continue to feast on The Word of God.

Unfortunately, because some are easily defeated by low self-esteem and insecurities, they never get to see the good works that God has planned for them. We don't have to be defeated or discouraged when we know that all things are possible with Jesus--there is nothing too hard for Him to accomplish through us when we obey.

All we have to do is remember God planned our end before we were. He made provision for Adam and Eve before He created them and He is yet doing the same thing for all who love Him and obey. We only need to seek Him and do things His way in order to get the results He planned for us, through good works that include being a blessing to others.

Are you ready to receive the benefits of your good works? Now is the time! Whatever you do, do all in the name of The Lord, to His glory. We are His Creation, made in His likeness, and God never created junk! In fact, everything He created, He looked at when it was finished and said, "It is good" and gave us His stamp of approval.

Is America The Modern Day Pergamum?

To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives. Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. " (Revelation 2:12-15 NIV)

Though this message was for the early church in the Middle East, governed by Rome, it still  serves as a reminder to us today. When reading this, I began to wonder if America has become "Satan's Seat" of  all that is wrong with society today.

The message to the church acknowledges that there are some who remain true to their faith and will not renounce the belief and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, even in the face of persecution and those will be rewarded. However, He goes onto to say what He will hold against those tho entice people to sin and to hold onto cultic teachings that worship idols and false gods. This is in reference to the Nicolaitans (those who brought in idolatry and encouragement to live in opposition to God's Word). Doesn't that sound just like what is occurring in the Christian Community today?

Whenever I hear someone attempt to justify a lifestyle that is opposition to God's Word, I know they cannot know God and yet they quote scripture--out of context--that we who know to do right are not their judge. "God said don't judge." They quote it and have no idea what it means. Jesus said in Matthew 7:1,2 "Do not judge or you too will be judged, for in the same way you judge others (without The Word), you will be judged and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." The judgment that He references is based upon man's intellect, not God's Word and it is a warning that when we exclude God's Word as a guide for living, we set ourselves up to be judged by the same standards (man's intellect). They who live according to their flesh have already been judged and condemned by The Word--not us. If they knew God and had read His Word, they would know how ridiculous their attempt to quote Him is to justify their behavior.

And then their claim to sexual orientation is not a choice is further evidence of a lack of understanding about "words." An orientation is a process designed to encourage a practice. A preference is a process of selectively choosing what one wants or does. Both--orientation and preference--are choices, not civil rights or birth designs. This is how Satan deceives and unfortunately, there are many who buy into the deception.

But we can take heart in the knowledge that not all Believers are seduced by a lying devil and we will hold fast to God's Word, no matter what and we will not entice others to participate in ritualistic sin. What we must remember--the messages in the Bible are for Believers--not the unbelieving, for they would not believe it any way. Judgment begins at the household of faith--for all who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ. For those who are not followers in the truest sense of the word, their only hope is repentance and restoration to living a life that is pleasing to God.

We can no longer teach a sugar-coated message of Salvation in an attempt to not offend. Yes, Jesus died for all, but all must come to acknowledge that He is God and nothing in His message when He walked the earth, changed God's Word or intent for mankind. The only hope the worldly have is for those of us who know Truth, to teach God's Truth, not our own. We must say what God says in the context in which He said it.

We Cannot Bring God Down To Our Level, We Must Rise!

“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." (Isaiah 55:9-11 NIV)

If we have any doubt about whether God sees things the way we see them, here is the proof that He does not think the way we do, and so His ways are not our ways. Even if we wanted to, we could not begin to have thoughts greater than His. He is the Creator of all things and without Him, nothing was ever created. Now think about this. What has man ever created--from nothing? This is why we can have no confidence in man above God.

We are yet trying to figure things out and no amount of research or analysis of things that are have helped us to do anything God has done. We have not created any heavens, skies, clouds, oceans, and if we were that smart (as some think) we would not have issues with droughts and hunger. So, why do we? I can only imagine (not know) that God in His infinite Wisdom is waiting for us to totally rely upon Him and so far, we haven't.

So, when people (those who do not know God or understand Him) quote a few scriptures out of context to try convince us that God doesn't have a problem with people living in opposition to His Word, they demonstrate they do not know God or His Word. Here is the proof. What we need to stop doing is trying to bring God down to our level of thinking and raise our thoughts to see in His Word, how He wants us to live.

Let's face it--when we cannot get our thoughts above our waist--to pacify fleshly desire, we certainly cannot begin to think we think on the same level as God. We have a brain and most of us have a heart that beats with a certain rhythm--do we use them the way God wants us to use them? Once we gather knowledge from others who have actually researched and analyzed things and how they work, we begin to think we know more than God. How foolish we must seem in His sight!

We do not know more than God, cannot never know more than God, but we do have His Word as a guideline for living and many are too foolish to even recognize that. Everything we need to live in peace and harmony is in His Word. Everything we need to prosper--financially and otherwise--is in His Word. Everything we need to live healthy lives, is in His Word.

If we understood Genesis, we would understand that God made provisions for us, before He created us and we have misused and abused what He created out of greed and selfishness and then we wonder why the world is in the shape it's in. It's time to turn back to God--the One who knows everything and will speak to the hearts of those who love Him and will obey. We can do it. We just have to realize how limited we are and how Awesome He is. We need Him far more than He needs us!

A Changing World--Live With Rayfords

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/maryandtyrone/2015/05/14/a-changing-world-live-with-the-rayfords

Join us for an enlightening discussion and share you input after you hear it.

What Happens When We Honor God!

"You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy." (Psalm 45:7 NIV)

This wedding song (in 17 verses) depicts what God's response is to those who love righteousness and hate wickedness. When we do what is right, God sets us apart and above, anointing us with the oil of joy, not sadness.

If the wedding participants honor God, then God honors the wedding participants. He anoints the joining together of a man and woman so their hearts are filled with joy, looking with great expectancy to all God has promised them.

When we honor God--all of His promises are yes and amen.
When we honor God, in the fulfillment of the marriage plan designed by Him, we can become one as husband and wife, without fear or trepidation of the outcome.

When we honor God, He blesses us as individuals, and as a couple and all of our children are blessed.

When we honor God and keep Him first as our focus in living, our homes will know peace and so will our communities when all are honoring Him.

When we honor God, we know we can talk to Him and He will direct our paths in all things.

When we honor God, we know when we hear from Him and we are not deceived by the enemy who infiltrates the minds of those who waffle about obedience to God.

When we honor God, we know when the devil is trying to entice us to live in opposition to God's Word.

When we honor God, nothing is impossible for us to accomplish because we please Him, and He gives us the desires of our hearts.

When we honor God--we can count on Him to make the crooked roads straight, both naturally and spiritually.

When we honor God--we accept our shortcomings and submit to His instructions, receiving correction with the love that He gives it.

When we honor God--He completes us as individuals and when we meet another completed person (not a half), God is pleased with the union and blesses all we do, jointly.

All this and more will God do for those who honor Him with their whole life, living to please Him and not flesh.

God's People Are Never Ashamed of Their Faith In Him!

"You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the LORD your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed." (Joel 2:26 NIV)

"Let the weak say I am strong and the poor say I am rich because of what The Lord has done."

God's promises through all the prophets are just as true today as they were when they were first uttered. They are still speaking to us when we hear and obey The Word of God! The hungry will have plenty to eat and praise The Lord for His filling them and all of God's people (those from then until now) will never be ashamed for acknowledging Him as their source of plenty. No where in the Word does God say, the "rich" will inherit anything other than trouble. Not that He has a problem with people being rich--monetarily, but He would prefer we all be rich in mercy, love, and forgiveness--as He is, so should we be.

Through our obedience to God's Word,we put ourselves in position to not just be blessed, but to stay blessed so we can bless others. Though the wicked may "appear" to prosper, their prosperity will not last and they will be exposed in the light of day for all of their wickedness. We see this in the media when the corporate moguls are exposed for wrong doing and then end up in prison. We see this when politicians who side with wickedness end up exposed for all their wrong doing. But none of this should surprise us since we know that "wickedness in high places" exist and we are in a war--that cannot be fought in the natural, but in the Spirit.

We can expect--to be blessed--beyond our imagination when we hear and obey God in all things. It does not matter what people say or think; it does not matter what godless judges think or say, or how they attempt to change God's intent for mankind--our job is to obey God, rather than man. For man has not heaven or hell for us and we should not allow them to influence us in living in opposition to God's Word.

If we truly studied history, we would discover that man's ills have all been a result of disobedience to God. When we exclude God in the things we do, He lets us and then--like those who came before us--some recognize our error and plead with God to step in and make things better. We could save ourselves a lot of time and grief if we simply chose to obey Him in the first place. But then--some would never call upon Him, acknowledging His existence.

Since we who believe know to do better, we should be doing better--in promoting the Gospel, sharing our faith and God's love, and in convincing by example that our God is an Awesome God--who will not allow His people to suffer when they obey Him!

Let's get "this party" started--share His love with all you meet and greet and encourage them to develop a right relationship with Him, receiving all His many benefits. Glory Hallelujah!

What God Reveals By His Spirit!

"However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”— the things God has prepared for those who love him—these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God." (I Corinthians 2:9,10 NIV)

When we run into people who say our faith in God is pointless, what do we do? Do we argue to no avail or do we simply stand firm on The Word?

When they say there is no God, we don't have to argue the point, but remember this passage of Scripture. For those who say our existence is all about science, they have forgotten that God speaks to the heart of all who listen and even some of the scientists admit they don't have an explanation for everything. Now, here's the beauty of what some of them have come to realize--science does not create--it attempts to explain that which already exists and in some instances--scientists will develop something from that which already existed. Development is not creation. This is not to undermine what scientists do, but to point out that the scientists would have nothing to develop if
God had not already created--all that was created.

Have we seen all of God's Wisdom implemented in the earth? No, not yet. Will we ever? That depends upon us and how well we listen when He speaks. The deeper things this passage references have not been seen or heard of, but are yet to come.

Out of this passage of scripture, we get two things--hope and encouragement. No matter how bad things may appear, we haven't seen the end of the matter because God is yet speaking, by His Spirit, to all who will hear. We are encouraged by The Word, knowing that there are still things we have not even thought about that will come to pass on our behalf. God knows what we need and He knows our heart's desires. When we please Him, He responds by giving us the desires of our hearts.

Though it may not look like He is listening, He hears. Though it may not look like He is working on our behalf, He is. Remember this, we have not heard or seen all of the good things He has in store for us, but they will come and when we see them and hear them, we'll know--it was all Him.

Don't despair over what the naysayers have to say and don't listen to the voices of those spirits who despise Him. Our God is awesome and He is more than enough! When He speaks to others by His Spirit, things begin to change for our good!

Wisdom Speaks!

"I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me." (Proverbs 8:17 NIV)

Wisdom speaking to those who hear,
For those who want knowledge to create
For those who understand their fate
Wisdom speaks to those who hear.

Wisdom loves those who love her,
For those who want to know even more,
For those who stand at destiny's door,
Wisdom loves those who love her.

Wisdom is found by those who seek,
For those who rise early, ready to learn,
For those whose passion for knowledge churns,
Wisdom is found by those who seek.

Wisdom is the principal thing by which we know,
With certainty all our self-proclaimed knowledge is vain,
Without seeking wisdom from above, nothing we gain,
Is worthwhile or even discussing wherever we go,
For without wisdom there is no rhyme or reason
To explain all that God has done and will do
On behalf of all who seek Wisdom while she can be found.

And with the Wisdom showered upon us from above,
We need understanding to drive the point home,
No, not one of us really knows much about anything,
Unless we operate with wisdom, tempered with love.

Then, Wisdom like a gentle rain, on a summer's day,
Fuels our imaginations to explore creative means
To make this journey on earth worth the stay,
Teaching and seeking more wisdom as His Return is delayed,
Giving us time to get things right in His sight, with Wisdom
Leading the way for all who seek and love her.

Divine Power Results!

"Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires." (2 Peter 1:4 NIV)

God's Divine Power--within us through Holy Spirit--puts us in position to receive and benefit from His promises. What does that mean? We have the power within us to live right, talk right, and stay on the path God designed for us.

How do we do this? When we allow Holy Spirit to guide us on a daily basis, we escape giving into fleshly desires which can distract and deter us from the path God would have us take. But we have to allow Him to do what He does best--hear from the Father and speak to us.

When we get angry--Holy Spirit reminds us of the Word--be angry and sin not.

When we get vengeful--Holy Spirit reminds us of the Word--Vengeance is mine says the Lord.

When we allow flesh to get in our way--Holy Spirit reminds us of the Word--neither fornicators, adulterers, or liars, shall not have any place in heaven.

When we allow our eyes to stray--Holy Spirit reminds us of the Word--every man should sex only with his own wife and every wife, with her own husband.

When children are rebellious and disobedient (and we are sometimes)--Holy Spirit reminds us of the Word--Honor our mother and father so our days will be long on the earth.

When we are tempted to hate for any reason--Holy Spirit reminds us of the Word--Love God first and our neighbors as ourselves.

If we love God, we will obey Him and will not allow the influence of the enemy to guide us in doing anything because we allow Holy Spirit to do His job. That's the benefit of Divine Power operating within us.

Notice--we must allow Holy Spirit to speak to us and we hear Him--He will not force us to do anything. The devil cannot force us to do anything either--we must allow him to influence us.

So our decision must hinge on whether we want to see His promises manifested in our lives or the consequences of the enemy's influence in our lives. It is our choice. And we have the power to make the right decision because of the Divine Power, who resides within us.

Celebrating The Gift of Motherhood!

“Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—“so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:2,3 NIV)

How have we come so far from obeying the commandments of God as it pertains to honoring mothers and fathers? We know we have because of all the sad events reported in the media. If we really want to see a change in our nation, we must return to doing things God's way.

But before we can truly honor mothers and fathers, they have a responsibility to their children--to bring them up in the ways of God, not just by word but by example. When children are exposed to Godly behavior  in their homes, they will exemplify that behavior when they are not at home.
That's simple enough, but perhaps too simple to be understood and implemented.

How parents act--and we see them in public--in private will be seen in the behavior of their children in public. Children do what they see their parents do, not just what their parents say. This occurs because some parents have a "do as I say mentality rather than do as I do" mentality. In other words, they are not going to behave as God would direct us and then they wonder why their children are often in trouble.

Admittedly, some children are prone to fall under the influence of peers who have not been parented by Godly parents and they go astray, even though their own parents have lived a life that is pleasing to God in front of them. This is why all parents are responsible for their  children's behavior since their behavior has wide range influence. Kids who are cussing in public or cussing at their teachers have parents who have no regard for the language they use in front of them. Kids who steal and lie pick up the bad habits from parents who think nothing of stealing and lying in front of their kids. Loud and obnoxious kids usually have loud and obnoxious parents or are influenced by other kids who have loud and obnoxious parents.

But that's not all parents and it's certainly not all kids. There are some good examples of Godly parents in our environment and it is those parents who are committed to raising children who respect those in authority, have values and morals that are evident in their daily behavior, and who know and love The Lord.

Kids are not responsible for the behavior of their parents--parents are responsible for the behavior of their kids--to a point. Once they leave a parent's home, they are responsible for themselves, but if they have not had a good foundation laid for responsible behavior, they may not learn to behave responsibly.

At any rate, there is a time and place for everything and today is the time set aside to "honor mothers"  and all the mothers who have raised their children by Godly example, I salute you. For those who never knew their natural mothers and made it anyhow, I celebrate you. For those who raised more children they gave birth to--God has a special place in heaven for you. For all the mothers--who raised their children with love and discipline as a foundation for living, God bless you!

Hopefully, I have not left out any of the wonderful mothers who have raised or are raising God-loving children. If your mother is no longer here, hug someone's mother who reminds you of your own. Let's celebrate motherhood as a great gift from God because it is.  

  

Heirs To The Promises of Abraham!

"If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise." (Galatians 3:29 NIV)

An heir is a person who has legal claims to an inheritance of someone's property after they have died. In this passage, Paul reminds us that since we are descendants of Abraham by faith, we have a right to everything he was promised in Genesis 12:1-3.

God promised Abraham that He would make him a great nation, he would be blessed to be a blessing, anyone who blessed him would be blessed and anyone who cursed him would be cursed and in him, all the families of the earth would be blessed. These were the promises made to Abraham "if" he obeyed God.

Whenever we look at the promises in the bible, many of us wait to receive them and even get angry with God if we don't, but we tend to overlook that one little word, "if" we do, then He will do.

To God--obedience is better than sacrifice. If we're not willing to obey Him, in all things, then none of the rituals we do will matter.

We can sing praises until our vocal chords are stripped, but if we do not obey Him, it is all for nothing.

We can pray from the time we rise to the time we go to bed, but if we do not obey Him, we've wasted our time.

We can tell others how good God is and all about His love, but if we do not obey Him, our words are empty sounds.

Nothing we do--in an attempt to convince others about who God is and what they can have in Him--will matter if we do not obey Him.

When we are waiting to see promises fulfilled in our lives, perhaps we need to stop and think to make sure we are obeying Him. The promises are manifested out of our obedience to God, just like they were to Abraham, when he "got up out of the country of his people" and not before. If we are not descendants of Abraham by faith, we have no promises to claim from God.

Perhaps, it truly is time for reflection rather than frustration with God. It is we who hinder our ability to receive what God has for us, not Him. If we allow the enemy to influence what we think and do, then we can expect nothing from God.

So, who are you obeying and what do you expect to receive from it?

How Are Your Angels Performing?

"The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them." (Psalm 34:7 NIV)

Before the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we see "angels" discussed as being the messengers of God. After the resurrection, especially in Revelation, we see the angels are still referencing the messengers of God in the church--those in leadership. I say this for clarity only simply because of the misrepresentation of angels in the entertainment industry. There are angels (spirit beings) who have been assigned to every Believer and in the end, we shall judge their abilities pertaining to us.

The bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 6:3 that we shall judge our angels as well as those things that pertain to this life. Contrary to what many think and say, those who believe God shall judge what people do--according to the Word--not their opinions or bias. Whatever God says, we say. And we shall judge those angels (in the spirit realm) who have been assigned to us to protect us.

While many may not believe in angels, I know that my angels have been on duty and because of them, I am still here today. They have warned me about impending danger and cushioned me from being harmed, irreparably in two accidents that should have killed me. In both accidents, cars were totalled and my physical injuries were superficial at best. I walked away from both of them without a scratch, but suffered delayed reactions due to the impact. As a result, my vision was impaired from the last accident and at one point, I was told I'd be blind before long. That accident occurred in 1994. Though I strain at times to see words clearly, I can still see. My angel(s) took the brunt of that impact and I am here to tell the story,

Now, let me move on to the gist of this passage. Those who reference (not be afraid of) The Lord, obey Him out of that obedience, can expect their angels to be encamped around them and delivered from dangerous situations. This does not mean we should be foolish and try to tempt the devil. We are to be wise as a serpent--moving cautiously in life--aware of the tricks of the enemy--never intentionally jeopardizing our lives or the lives of others.

In those instances in which we are not responsible for any danger to ourselves or others, we are protected and delivered from harm, Satan's plans cancelled and they sizzle out with the interference of our angels. I tend to liken the darts Satan flings at us like a tennis game. We see what he does and lob the ball back into his court and he never stands a chance at winning in his attempt to defeat us when we know how to keep the ball in play.

Today, thank God for the angels who have been assigned to protect you and remember to always be willing to hear Holy Spirit when He speaks a word of caution to keep us safe.

What Happened?

Thump!
C-r-e-a-k!
Boom, Boom!
“Make it stop,” Tiny cried.
Bobby huddled, pale-faced, shuddering.
“What is that?” he sputtered.
Silence. The motor of the a/c stopped.
More silence.
Tiny nervously moved towards the door; it slammed open, making her jump.
“Aih!” she screamed, hiding behind the couch, waiting for the end.


(c) 2015 by Mary M. Hall-Rayford

Why All The Noise!

"Shout for joy, you heavens; rejoice, you earth; burst into song, you mountains! For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones." (Isaiah 43:13 NIV)

Once the Prophet Isaiah has assured the children of Israel will not allow them to go hungry or die of thirst or heat from the sun, he infers that even the heavens, all the earth, and the mountains should praise the Lord for His compassion and comfort of those who have been persecuted.

The same God, who would not leave His chosen people to their own devices, loved them in spite of them and after a time--giving them room to reflect upon their behavior--He still decided to make sure they had everything they needed and would be saved their persecutors. The same God--will do the same those of us who have chosen Him--and He has received us unto Himself. He will not allow us to suffer lack when we obey Him.

We can look around us and see those who have chosen to live in opposition to His Word and know that their end--will not the same as those who live according to His Word. God is not mocked and He will not bless mess, corruption, rebellion, and disobedience. People may think they're getting away with something, but they are not. And when we understand this, we can keep our faith moving forward, not focused on the foolishness of man, but on the mercy, grace and love of God who will redeem us from the hands of the enemy.

Shout for joy all you people who love The Lord! Sing praises unto Him who loves us in spite of us and will not allow us to suffer lack. Dance in the victory of being an overcomer for we shall overcome all the enemy puts in our path to defeat us--we are more than conquerors. We have a right to make "some noise" over all He is doing for us and will do when we allow Him to guide us in all things! Hallelujah!

I don't know about you, but when I think about Jesus and all He has done, I could dance, dance, dance, all day! Singing a new song, from the depths of my soul as my heart rejoices in His goodness and mercy that endures forever!

Are you ready? Shout in the name of Jesus! Hallelujah! Glory to Your Name, Lord!

Who's Glorified in The Meeting?

"In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it." (I Corinthians 11:17,18 NIV)

If we use the "church" as an example of how behavior should be in any meeting, and the church does not know how to conduct itself, how can there be progress in any other type of meeting?

I feel Paul's frustration over having to instruct--Believers--in how they should conduct themselves in church. One would think (at least I do) that if we truly believe in every Word of God and respect the authority of the Word that we would have no need to have anyone correct errant behavior. Of course, we know this is not true, not only for the church but  for various types of meetings in other venues.

In particular, I'm referencing meetings in which an elected body should know what they're doing, but don't and instead of seeking advice, they attempt to run things like a dictatorship. When things start falling apart, they want to cry foul because their leadership style has not drawn others into the fray. God is not the author of confusion and where there is confusion, He is not present.

When business meetings--of any type--become embroiled in personality conflicts, rumors and he say, she say commentaries, racial divides and social cliques--people have lost sight of the purpose and nothing is accomplished and then we wonder why. If our purpose in meeting for any reason is not to create an environment in which there is productive, forward movement obtained in harmony and unity, our meeting is in vain and we are wasting our time.

Anyone who takes on a position of leadership should know what they're doing and if they don't, they should know how to obtain the information they need to know from other resources and proceed as expeditiously as possible. Instead of making excuses for not getting the job done, people need to find reasons to get them done. If we keep in mind that everything we do should glorify God, confusion in the midst of meetings would not be an issue.

Is God glorified in the confusion that exist because of low-esteem and insecurity when people feel a need to belittle others or start rumors about them? No! The only glory is for the enemy who loves confusion.

When we are able to relate God's Word to every area of our lives, we learn to move forward in peace and harmony. God does not want us to harbor ill-will towards anyone and when we do, it affects our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. So, instead of making noise to bring attention to ourselves, let's practice seeking Him in the matter of all things and when there is disagreement, solve it in all Godliness, not pettiness.

How Words Demonstrate Our Faith!

“Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them." (Mark 11:23 NIV)

Jesus responds to Peter's amazement about the dried up fig tree He cursed--merely speaking over it. The first part of His statement to Peter was, "Have faith in God."

When our faith is firmly entrenched in God and what He has said, our hope is never-ending because we know that God is not a man that He should lie. Man--on the other hand--not only lies, but changes what is to what God never intended and then proceeds to deceive and manipulate others into believing the lie so they won't feel alone in the judgment already decreed in God's Word.

Think about that! If the gangs recruit other members after they prove they can do stupid without thinking about it. They "jump" other people into gangs by fighting them, they lie, the convince to steal, kill, and destroy lives and property. Now, really, who influences that? Satan--just doing his job and the weak and vulnerable, the insecure and the foolish, fall in line believing the lies perpetuated by Satan who does not want to be thrown into the lake of fire alone.

The same can be said of those who advocate for political correctness rather than Godly righteousness and hatred and bigotry in the guise of "freedom of speech." They don't want to be judged by themselves and be held up to the Light alone, so they convince others to join in the melee of confusion and unrighteousness, influenced by none other than Satan himself. This is what happens when our faith is in man and his limited ability and short foresight.

When our faith is in God--we know what He has promised and we understand His great love for us. So when we "say" something about the events or circumstances in our lives, if we don't doubt and what we say aligns with His Word, He will bring it to pass. God has no limits and He knows all--from the beginning to the end--and His Word will never pass away. When our faith is in Him--we don't have a problem being held up to The Light for all the world to see--His righteousness imputed in us, and we are doing all things right before Him and man.

Whether we speak curses or blessings--faith brings it to reality.

I speak healing and wholeness to all who know and love God in Jesus' name, right now.

I speak deliverance from things that are not of God and hearts filled with His love so all can know the joy of the Lord.

I speak love overflowing onto all people because the love of God overflows our hearts.

I speak truth that dissolves the scales of blindness for those who do not know Truth is Jesus Christ.

I speak abundance for all who lack the resources to live a life that is bountiful in blessing others.

I speak unity for all peoples of all nations so hatred and violence will end.

I speak peace in the heart of every person in every nation so lives will be saved.

I speak desire to know Jesus in the hearts of every person who does not know Him so they will know Him and have what He desires us to have.

All these things I speak over the lives over all who are willing to receive the corresponding result in Jesus' name, believing it will come to pass.

This is what I'm saying today. What are you saying that will come to pass? Our words must be carefully uttered so we see that we can have what we say.

Fellowship With Light Every Day!

"If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin." (I John 1::6,7 NIV)

Walking in darkness--directed by the "dark one" who influences all evil, under the cover of darkness or hidden agendas, means we cannot be in fellowship with God.

When our relationship with God is right--we have fellowship with Him, live to please Him and not self, and receive the bountiful blessings He has for us. If we are walking with Him (abiding by His Word at all times), we will not want to sin because He is with us and everything we do, is done in broad daylight (in full view of all) because we have no reason to be fearful or ashamed.

Picture this, if you will. We get out of bed and He is right there by our sides. Whatever we do, He is with us--through all the morning rituals (whatever they may be), breakfast, commute to work or sitting right next to us as we enjoy the view of a glorious morning with our first cup of coffee.

Us: Good morning, Lord! Thank You for waking us this morning! It's going to be a good day.

God: Yes, my child it is going to be a good day for every day with me is good.

Us: I am so thankful that I am Your child. Thank You for loving me in spite of me.

God: My child, I want You to know that I am right next to You at all times. I know your thoughts and I know when you're going to ignore me. Sometimes, the only way a person can learn to live right is by making mistakes. When you mess up--I see the repentant heart and forgive when you ask me. I love you and that's what good parents do.

Us: We love you, even when we sometimes go astray, but Your mercies, new every morning, help to keep us going in the right direction.  You are so awesome!

God: What would you like from me today? When you please me, I give you whatever you want.

Us: Lord, point out everyone that needs an encouraging word, everywhere we go. Give us the courage to speak Your truth, not ours so the land can live in peace.

God: When you pass by those on your way, smile and tell them I love them and everything is going to be all right, when they seek me first.

Us: Really? That's all we need to do to have what we want?

God: That's it. As long as you remember I'm right here, seeing what you see, feeling what you feel and your desire is to please me, you can ask for anything and I'll give it.

Us: Lord, if we've found favor in Your sight, speak to hearts and heal the land of all hatred and violence.

God: Is that your request of me?

Us: Yes, Lord.

God: Then as we walk throughout this day, people will see you and know that are mine and I am yours and by what you do, they'll believe in me, accept my love and the hatred will cease.

Us: Thank You, Lord! Are Your ready to go?

God: I am always ready to go where ever you go.

Did we get it? He's always there, right beside us, in the midst of everything we do. He sees, He knows, and He blesses our efforts to live right before Him. As long as we remember He is right beside us, we cannot go wrong--especially if we want to stay in fellowship with Him.

Can we do it? Can we walk in the light as He is the Light? Can we shake off the dark thoughts and cease to walk in darkness? There is no fellowship with God in darkness because Light dispels the darkness and all is exposed in the Light.

Lord, Thank You for leading us along the path You have prepared for us and for being with us throughout the journey, keeping us safe, protected from all harm. Give us a nudge any time we want to stray from the path, reminding us that You are right there with us.

Those Who Understand, Have No Need of Control!

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you." (Psalm 32:8,9 NIV)

God's response to David's entreaty was that He, Almighty God would instruct him, teach, and counsel him and at all times, would keep His eyes upon him. Our great and awesome God is the same God that spoke to David and He is yet speaking to us--He will instruct, teach, and counsel us--we have no need for those who have no understanding of His ways to teach us anything, provide us with instruction of anything and they certainly cannot counsel us about anything that pertains to God and His ways.

Those who are looking to men's legislation or judgments are really wasting their time. The only thing that will be proven by the interception of men in the wake of God's way of living, is that men and women will constantly be jerked around by the whims of men. God's instructions have been written--not only in the book most know as a bible, but in the hearts of all who have a relationship with Him. Holy Spirit dwells within the consummate Believer who knows God cannot lie and He said what He meant and meant what He said. It is Holy Spirit who provides us with understanding as He hears from God to direct us and counsel us at all times. Without God, we become like those who have gone before us--lost and wander around like mindless creatures, not having a clue as to which direction to take.

But we see in current events that whenever the flesh is tickled or set ablaze with lust within those who have no fear or reverence of God, all must be embroiled in the mindlessness and only those who are standing firm in their faith, will survive to see the glory of The Lord prevail in all things. We are warned in The Word that flesh and spirit are enemies--we either allow flesh to dictate what we do or we allow Holy Spirit to dictate what we do. Holy Spirit will not force His will upon anyone and neither should man.

Judgment, for all who sin and especially those who lie, has already been determined and unless the guilty parties change their ways and see the need to have God in their lives, their end is established--in the lake of fire.

Those who stand firm have no need for godless men with no understanding to instruct us in the ways of a living God, who is yet keeping watch over us. It is the godless who need to be careful and watchful of the mighty hand of God. The same Hand--who comforts and protects His children, also delivers a blow to those who mislead God's children.

Be encouraged! We are not like the horses or mules with no understanding that need others to lead us around when they have no direction. We know the way--and Jesus is the way, the Truth and the Light!

The Last Cabin

 I warned them! And just as I said it would happen, it happened!

The rushing water overflowed the banks of the gulley, making a path up the hill where the cabins sat like targets, just waiting to be picked off and one by one in the torrential showers that fed the bloated gulley, cabins disappeared—some floating, some engulfed until only the rooftops were visible.

The girls in my cabin screamed, terrified that we would be washed into Lake Huron since our cabin was closest to the lake.

“Hush!” I cautioned, knowing screaming would not solve anything. “Quickly, get everything you can onto a top bunk, and then tie yourselfs to the bunks with your sheets.”

“I don’t want to drown,” Petra screamed, sitting on her lower bed.

“Well, if you don’t want to drown, get off your butt and move it!” I yelled. I jumped from my perch on the top bunk as I watched the rising water and hurriedly threw stuff on the top bunks that were not being used and then started stripping the sheets, wrapping the girls into a hammock wrap and tying the sheets to the bunk.

“Hurry, Mrs. C.” Donnetta yelled, looking at the water.

“I will. I just have to get a few things done.”

I quickly tossed them the plastic containers they had used for snacks and told them to keep them close for bathroom purposes and wrapped the food into the rain ponchos. By the time I threw the last container on my own bunk, water crept in under the door.

“Help!” the girls screamed.

“There’s no one to help us, so you might as well stop screaming,” I said, grabbing some snacks and a six pack of water, wrapping it my raincoat.

“Don’t use your flashlights unless it is absolutely necessary,” I yelled above the sound of the water, trying to invade our little domain. I prayed as I tied myself to the bed, but inwardly cringed as I heard the beams give with the tug of the water. And off we went. Floating with all the debris that managed to get into the path of the water.

The girls were silent and I couldn’t see what they were doing in the dark, so I dared to turn on my flashlight and they were curled into their wraps, frightened beyond measure.

“Row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream, merrily, merrily, life is but a dream,” I started singing. They looked at me as though I’d lost my mind, but I encouraged them to join in the song. Eventually they did.

I don’t know how long we sang that song when we heard a loud thump. I looked out the window, but could seeing nothing but blackness and I didn’t dare get out of the bunk.

“What was that?” Tonya asked, crying. “I want to go home.”

“Sh.” I said. “I don’t know. I’m not sure where we are and…

I didn’t get a chance to finish that sentence because boards of the cabin walls came crashing into our cabin—the last cabin in the camp.

“Lord, have mercy!” was the last thing I remember saying.

The rain stopped!

The sun was shining!

I tramped along the wet grass to the bathhouse humming, “Thank You, Lord!”

© Mary M. Hall-Rayford  2015

My first attempt at writing flash fiction. How did I do? :)