Showing posts with label Gifts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gifts. Show all posts

Sunday, November 12, 2017

Maximizing The Gifts Given!

Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. I Corinthiains 12:1-12 NIV
We have all been given spiritual gifts as well as natural gifts as He determines, not how we covet. The gifts He gives--the innate ability to accomplish--is ours to maximize for the good of all, not just us as individuals for our own glory, but to His. Now is the time for everyone seeking to understand their gift to work to maximize what has been given and to use those gifts--naturally and spiritually--for the good of all--especially Americans.

Some of us--naturally have been gifted with curiosity, which we can maximize by our intensity to know--through research and critical thinking--asking the right questions and analyzing the answers we receive.

Some of us--naturally have been gifted with the ability to connect with others through either charismatic personality, gift of gab or intuitive reasoning.

Some of us--naturally have been gifted with compassion and empathy for others around and others see us as nurturers.

Some of us--naturally have been gifted with ability to communicate through the effective use of words and understand that words matter.

As for the spiritual gifts--God has given those gifts He chooses to those who will use them to His glory and through constant use, prayer, and humility--those gifts are maximized in our lifetimes. Whether we understand how God chooses to whom He gifts is totally irrelevant since we know that His gifts and calls are without repentance. In other words, either the gifts are used or they stagnate depending on what we do with them, not what we become or how we act.

When we actually realize what gifts reside in us and how we can maximize them--both naturally and spiritually--we begin to understand the roles we can play in society to make this world a better place. This then, is how I plan to utilize the gifts given to me to govern in the White House as President of the United States in 2021.

God has given me an abiding intensity to discover knowledge and an ability to analyze what I discover, effectively communicating in writing and in verbal communications conclusions that are verifiable. He has poured into me a deeply rooted faith in Him that leads me to believe I can move mountains--which is why I plan to run for president and win.

Now, I'm not foolish enough to believe an election win will be accomplished through osmosis, so I'm spending my time wisely, making sure my name and stance are well known in advance of the upcoming elections. I am not seeking financial contributions from anyone at this time, but their support and assistance in getting my names on ballots across the country. With enough support to get my name on the ballot and opportunity to express my stance, publicly for the nation to hear, I know wisdom will intervene in the hearts of those listening and they will watch what I do, coming to determination that I will do what is best for all Everyday Americans--abandoning none--but seeking solutions to all problems from those who are wiser than I.

To that end, I implore everyone reading to get to know me better. If you've reading my blogs for the past seven or eight years, you know my faith has not wavered. It has only been since April 15, 2017 that I was inspired to get more actively involved in politics because of the chaos and miasma that currently exists in the White House. Though I have not the political background of some other contenders for the White House, I have a more than average knowledge of how government works, what's good for the economy, how to be civil to others, and how to take a strong stand--without flinching--against those who would be enemies of America. I have lived the challenges and struggles of the average Everyday American and can seek solutions that benefit all.

In addition to my blogs found here, additional information about me can be found on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Medium, Amazon, and of course in all of my books found here Author.to/marysbooks.

Any other questions, not addressed through these media can be left on my facebook.com/YesIAm2020 page.

My love of the Lord and desire to please Him in all things--especially in defending the rights of the poor, needy and vulnerable are stronger than ever and I don't see a change in that regard. Your support is needed and appreciated if we are to have an opportunity to see how God works things out when maximizing the gifts given to me--and you!

Raising The Standards

Friday, December 23, 2016

30 Days of Prayer and Praise--12!

Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed. I cry out to God Most High, to God, who vindicates me. He sends from heaven and saves me, rebuking those who hotly pursue me--God sends forth his love and his faithfulness. I am in the midst of lions; I am forced to dwell among ravenous beasts— men whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. They spread a net for my feet— I was bowed down in distress. They dug a pit in my path— but they have fallen into it themselves. My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 57 NIV
Day Twelve

Lord Jesus,

We know You see how those who love You are treated and vilified; how liars spread falsehoods and engage in activities designed to bring us to a place of disaster. But we know, how much You love us and how much You care for all who love You. We thank You for Your faithfulness towards and continued mercy and grace.

Lord, look upon all those who dare to plot against Your children and deliver unto them the same fate they plot against us.

For every foul deed they plot--have it turn again unto them. For every lie they tell to make themselves seem more than they are--expose the lie with truth for all to see.

For every trap they lay--let them be caught in the traps of their making.

For every pit they dig--let them fall into them and suffer whatever plight they planned for others.

For every lie they tell--send ten messengers of truth to expose their lies.

For every deception they plot to fool others--let them fall into the peril of being deceived more mightily than they planned.

For everything they plan to steal to enrich themselves--let it be stolen from them one hundred times more.

Lord, for everyone who plans to do what is right--let their good deeds be known to all and their reward be great.

For everyone who gives out of the capacity of their heart to those who are in need, let their giving be returned unto them one hundredfold.

For everyone who loves--unconditionally--everyone they meet--let the love they share with others be returned without measure so they will continue to love.

For those who encourage hope--to keep others moving forward and never in despair--keep the flame of hope ignited and never let it die within them.

For those who are feeling unloved and discouraged--send to them one who knows You and Your love and is willing to share Your love with others.

For those who are without shelter--guide them to safety and keep them covered, embraced by love and a shelter without fear of being robbed or abused.

Lord, You are the greatest gift we could ever be given--our salvation, our hope, our light in the midst of darkness, our strength to keep moving forward--sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.

You, O Lord, are an awesome God! There is truly none like You and No One who will do the things You do for those You love. Our precious is Your love to all who seek to be loved and wide Your arms to gather, embrace and hold onto each of us--keeping us safe from harm.

Look upon this land and into the hearts of all and do justice according to Your mercy as only You can. In Jesus' name we pray and thank You, Amen!

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." (Hebrews 10:36 NIV)

The difference between those who succeed at one level than those who barely succeed--doing anything--is the level of commitment to keep going, keep refining, keep fine-tuning, keep revising, and keep believing that success is theirs. We know that true success is not achieved by a level of intelligent, but by a level of determination that no matter what happens, the focus is forward, not backwards.

But can there be success without failures in the interim? No--it is the failures that drive true success. We have but to look at Thomas Edison, Stephen King, Benjamin Franklin and so many more. We tend to believe that the success enjoyed by some occurred overnight because we only focus on the final result--not the journey to get there. So, for those who are weary and feel like giving up, today is not the day.

When God gives us a vision it is because He knows our capabilities beyond our doubts.

When we have obeyed Him in all things to please Him, He promised to give us the desires of our hearts and we must remain focused on the prize in order to receive the promise.

When things don't go the way we expected, we take a critical look at what happened, analyze the whys and gear up to keep going.

When we think we have reached the end of our rope and all hope is gone, we tie a knot before we get to the end of the rope, and hold on, expecting help because He said He'd never leave us alone.

Every ministry poured into us will succeed as long as we keep our eyes on Him, not people, always seeking His wisdom for direction and guidance.

Every dream we have will come to pass, if we just keep the dream in front of us and are willing to navigate every challenge that confronts us.

Every promise of God will be fulfilled, if we just listen to His still small voice and are willing to do things His way and not our own.

We were not told that we COULD do all things through Him who strengthens us just to fill words on a page.

We were not told that with God all things are possible because those who wrote the words just had a little time on their hands.

We were not told that no weapon formed against us would prosper for us to sit on our duffs, waiting for something to happen, without doing anything.

We were not told that with His going before us, He is more than the world against us for us hide behind shame and embarrassment with our first failure.

We serve an awesome God--One who created the universe from nothing and His arm is not shortened when it comes to the success of His children! Surely, goodness and mercy will follow us from each failed attempt to the promised success, by reminding us--we belong to Him and every good and perfect--those gifts He has poured into us--comes from above and all things--especially the failures--work together for our good!

In Him and through Him, we have what it takes to accomplish all things as long as we are determined to reach the goal and refuse to allow the failures to stop us at the starting gate. We are more than conquerors, victorious in all things, now let's act like it and get it done--persevering through every obstacle to make it happen!

Sunday, April 26, 2015

Momentary Anger, But Enduring Favor!

"For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." (Psalm 30:5 NIV)

What is a moment in God's timing? If a thousand years is as a day then a moment could be hundreds of years. At least it could be about 400 if we estimate timing accurately between the time the last prophet spoke to the children of Israel and His appearance on earth as Jesus.

But that's another discussion. As a grandparent who is parenting, again, I often get upset with my grandson--a teenager--going through puberty. I can only imagine how many reading this can relate, but at rate, this is trying time for both of us. We both get angry and sometimes, I have to remove myself from the moment so I won't say something I will regret. Fortunately, for him, I don't stay upset. Within a couple of hours, if he hasn't done too much that's foolish, I'm over my anger. He holds onto his anger a little longer, but for the most part, it doesn't last long.

When I think about how we all must transition through stages of life, I'm really glad that God's anger doesn't last--if it did, where would some of us be? I know I can look back on my life and shake my head--thinking about all the foolish things I did and know that some of them had to anger Him, but He kept me--even in my foolishness--from any lasting harm because of His plans for me. Today, I am thankful for His plans for my life since they have brought me to a place where not only have I acknowledged His great mercy and love, but have accepted Him as Lord of my life and I'm living please Him.

Because of His favor, I am able to live my dream--teaching English and writing to my heart's content, exercising the gifts He's given. Because of His favor, I have been able to make an impact in the lives of others by being who He wants me to be and not who I was without Him in my life. Because of His favor--doors have opened that none can shut and doors have closed than none can open.
Because of His favor, I walk with my head held high, knowing who I am and who I serve and know nothing by any means shall harm me. Because of His favor--shown towards me--I can show favor--towards my grandson, knowing that the phase of life he's in shall soon pass.

Thank You, Lord for favor and a desire to do all things to please You. Thank You for new mercies showered upon every day and because of the new mercy, we can continue to show mercy to others. What a wonderful thing to know that Your anger only lasts for a moment--not in our timing, but in Yours--and we can rejoice when we wake.

Sunday, February 8, 2015

Good Works Completed!

"In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."(Philippians 1:4-6 NIV)

Relevance! When we look at what all those God inspired to write--we must ask ourselves or at least be willing to see--the relevance of what was said then to our lives--now.

This letter to the "church" (Body of Believers) in Philippi was to thank them and encourage them to keep doing the good work that God had placed in their hearts, helping them to realize that whatever He purposed for them to do, would be done--in His timing--even if it meant completion when Christ returns.

There are a number of people right now--some may even be reading this post--who have been inspired by God to do something good and wonderful, but obstacles rose and knocked them off track. That's okay. The obstacles are going to rise every time we start doing what God has purposed us to do. But with prayer, the courage of our convictions and determination, and our faith in God, we will accomplish all He wants us to do!

Whether we know it or not--there are people praying for Believers everywhere. We pray that no heart becomes feint or allows doubt to deter them in whatever work God has given them. We pray them strengthened by the power of Holy Spirit. We pray hearts will hear Him when He speaks so we'll know how to overcome those obstacles. We pray for wisdom in recognizing when the enemy has attempted to erect a wall of opposition and rebellion against God and the work He has put in our hearts. We pray for all to understand and use the gifts God has given us to finance all He has given us to do. We have no need to "beg" others to finance the plans God has given us. He has equipped us to accomplish all we need to do with the gifts He has poured into us.

Not every person's gift is the same and it should not be, but all the gifts are given to complement all we are told to do. Some are gifted with musical ability to accompany those with voices who will praise and worship Him. Some are gifted with the ability to teach--explaining those things that others may not understand. Some are gifted with the ability to write--encouraging others by many venues to continue believing in God or in leading people to Jesus Christ. And the pool of gifts overflow our needs. Our abilities are limited only to the extent we have faith to move out in them.

"According to our faith, it will be unto us." Whatever we have faith to do, we will succeed in that area. Whatever good works God has given us to do, when we move out in faith, ready to tackle every obstacle with our courage and faith in Him, that good work will be completed in God's timing. Our job is to hear and obey and allow Him to be God.

Is there a good work that God has put on your heart to do? Know that we're praying for all He has given to all Believers to be accomplished, hearts strengthened, obstacles moved or torn down, and courage renewed in all you do. Stand firm in what you have been called to do and know the good works will be completed.

Sunday, December 28, 2014

Beliefs, Confession, Guidance!

In this coming new year, we all need to get an understanding of what it is we believe and then our beliefs (what we confess with our mouths) should guide everything we do.

If we say we believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (God in the flesh) and we should live according to The Word, then we should not promote any beliefs or conformity to anything that does not align with The Word.

We should not hate or humiliate others simply because they do not believe what we do or because they are different. What a boring world this would be if we all looked alike, thought alike, and talked alike, and did everything the exact same way. If God had wanted clones, He could have accomplished that. He created us uniquely individual, capable of doing all sorts of great things to His glory, according to His Word. He has given all gifts--that differ--so we might all enjoy the collective benefits of all the gifts He has given.

The gifts I reference are not just the spiritual gifts needed by apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists, and teachers or those listed in I Corinthians 12--tongues, interpretation, miracles, healing, discernment, wisdom, knowledge, faith, or prophecy--these are needed to build the Kingdom of God so that all needs are met. I'm referring to the "natural gifts" that He gives so all may benefit--the gift of writing, creating music, singing, painting, sculpturing, nurturing, counseling, parenting, comforting, encouraging, helping, and a host of other gifts--that many can enjoy whether they are saved or not.

However, being saved--puts us in a unique position to promote the Gospel with the gifts He has given. The Believer should always utilize the gifts given to promote the Love of God and in obeying His Word. The unbelieving are also gifted and most of them use their gifts to entertain the masses according to their gift and in many cases, entice people to live in opposition to God's Word.

It is not that Believers are superior to unbelievers; it is simply a matter of Believers knowing our Risen Savior and living to please Him, rather than appeasing fleshly dictates.

When the end comes, we are all going the same path--through death (if The Lord delays His return), so none are better than the other, but some are more astute than others because of the relationship established with Jesus!

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Great Gifts!

Books make a great gift for any occasion or season and its the gift that lasts and can be shared!

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Peace For All!

"He brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and peace to the Jews who were near. Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us." (Ephesians 2:17, 18 NLT)

We are without excuse--no matter our gender, ethnicity, or religious affiliation--we have no excuse not to live in peace with everyone.

For those who were once non-believers and for those who were always believers--The Good News of peace is for all who will receive it. But we must receive it--before we can actually have it.

A gift is not a gift to anyone--unless it is given and received.

Love--standing alone--is beneficial to anyone unless it has an object on which it can be bestowed and received.

Peace--already given--amounts to nothing if not received.

God does His part, but when do we do ours?

Do we not trust Him and His plans for us? Do we think our plans are better than His? Are we wiser than the most High God and have led to think we know more than He does?

The solution to all problems and the resolution for unrest, chaos, and confusion are all found in the "reception" of the work on the cross and allowing Holy Spirit to lead us in all things.

We know the work on the cross was for the benefit of all who "would believe and receive" but if people do not receive, their lives and ours will not be changed for the better.

God did not just love some of us--"He loved the all of us in the world so much that He gave His only Son that all might be saved" (paraphrased). All means all--not just one group of people, but all who are willing to receive His love!

Therefore, since there is so much unrest, chaos and confusion, we can see that not all have received His wonderful gift and since they have not received it, cannot enjoy it and neither can the rest of us around them--for where chaos and confusion reign--God is not there.

Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to open our hearts to You and receive all of the many benefits You have for us so we might live in peace and prosper as our souls prosper. This I ask for everyone who has a heart to hear You and obey from this day forward and I thank You for hearing and answering prayer. We love You and we know--there is none like You who can turn things around for the benefit of all mankind.

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Seeking Hidden Treasure!

"indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God" (Proverbs 2:3-5 NIV).

More wisdom from Solomon!

If we sought insight and understanding with the same fervor and diligence that some seek silver and hidden treasures, we would understand what it means the fear of the Lord and find His knowledge.

Some seek means of obtaining wealth without regard to the means or how it affects others, but never seek knowledge of God.

Some seek hidden treasure beneath the seas, expending every resource they have and often the investment of others, never giving up, but the same people seldom seek God for direction.

Some seek immediate gratification and wealth in gambling--playing the lottery, in the casinos with such tenacity that it would be admirable if they sought God with the same tenacity.

There is a hidden treasure within each and every one of us that most miss because they overlook the map that God has prepared for us in His Word. We are His treasure, and when we seek Him, He gives us insight to things to come and brings back to our remembrance those things He has taught us and a world of wealth (not just money) is opened to us. We have a wealth of compassion and love, forgiveness and peace within, and an attitude of gratitude for all we have. We communicate with Him on a consistent basis because we know without Him, we are lost and we need Him to keep us on the path He has established for us.

The treasure we seek, when we seek Him for direction does not remain hidden for long because when we operate with His wisdom and knowledge, the results are available for all to see. We have been given gifts--both naturally and spiritually--that most have never discovered--their treasure. Seek Him now to reveal the gifts He has given and learn to use them to His glory! We are His treasure (2 Corinthians 4:7 and Exodus 19:5)!

If we are amazed with all that God has created considered the "natural wonders of the world" then operating in the gifts He has given, would truly be a source of amazement. We are His gifts to the world when we do what He has asked us to do so through us, the world might come to know Him and His love and peace would prevail in all the land.

Friday, December 20, 2013

Reading Gifts!

Don't forget great reading gifts can be found on http://www.amazon.com/Mary-M.-Hall-Rayford/e/B00BAW31CQ and https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/381188 Read, Enjoy, and Review! Have a wonderful time of celebrating this holiday season! Be safe and determined to live God's best life for you!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

A Gift For All!

"The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles" (Acts 10:45).

After Peter preached to the crowd who had gathered about who Jesus is and what He came to do, the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out on all who received the message. But in this verse, we see that those who were "circumcised" (Jews by birth and faith, who were converted and became the first Christians) were astonished for they felt the "gift" was for them only.

There is a great deal that could said about the infilling/indwelling of the Holy Spirit, but it would take more room and time than I have. However, this point must be made. There are no superior groups of people in Christ Jesus. His gift is available for all who believe and receive. And those who operate with the guidance of Holy Spirit are not superior; they are gifted which is very different. All can be gifted if they would just believe and receive.

The point is that none of us should think we are more special in God's sight than any other. If we belong to Him, we are all members of the same family, no matter what denominational banner we carry. If all Christians, Buddhists, Muslims, and anyone else believing in our Creator God, would ever get to this one truth, the world would be a better place in which to live.

Instead of thinking any of us are superior over another group, we should work on developing our relationship with God, understanding what it is He wants us to do that will bring honor and glory to Him, and then receive the gift of Holy Spirit, allowing Him to guide us in all truth.

Are you ready to receive the gift? Humbling yourself and acknowledging the need for guidance other than your own, is the first step. Believe in He who was sent to redeem us and receive the gift of promise--Holy Spirit--who will lead us and guide us in all things and empower us to do all things well, to the glory of God.

Monday, August 26, 2013

Joyful, Patient, and Faithful!

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer" (Romans 12:12).

In Paul's letter to the church in Rome, he reminds them about their past and cautions them to care about their present and encourages them about their future. In verses 6-8, he discusses the different gifts that everyone has and encourages them to function in their gift. In this verse, he tells them to have hope with joy and to be faithful in praying for self and others and to be patient when we are afflicted.  Can we be happy while we wait with patience for the hope of our future; especially when we are afflicted by pain or betrayal?  Can we faithfully pray--on a consistent basis--be mindful of the needs of others and not just our own?

I am joyfully waiting with great expectation in the hope and confidence of seeing a prayer answered.  And I boast in the confidence I have in God, daily. Whenever I get a request for prayer from anyone, I immediately pray.  If it is someone on the phone, I pray right then.  If it is someone online, I type a prayer for them and let them know what I have prayed by sending it to them.  When my legs and ankles try to impede my walking, I remind them that they do determine what I do, I determine what they do.  And sometimes, I walk in pain, but I don't let it stop me.  I know of some people who are in constant pain who refuse to give up on living or their faith in God.  Hallelujah!  I'm praying for them daily.

When we think about it, seriously, we can do all things that are required of us because He has equipped us to do all things well. Are we going to do it?

Father, in the name of Jesus, I pray for all who have yet come to terms with a decision for You.  I pray that in the light of hope, they will see a need to accept all You have to offer with joy in their hearts and will make a decision to live for you, no matter what.  I pray physical comfort for all those suffering in pain, but yet live for You.  Relieve the pain from nerve conditions, joint conditions, skin conditions, muscle aches and whatever else might assail those who love You. I declare it done for all who will receive the gift of healing right now.  Amen!

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Ashamed No More!

"For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ:  for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jews (the chosen nation) first and then to the Greeks (those who chose to believe by faith)" (Romans 1:16 paraphrased).

This declaration made by Paul lets us know that even though he had been a persecutor of those who believed in Jesus and those who promoted the good news, once Jesus revealed himself to him, he became a believer and a promoter of the good news, openly.  Paul understood the law and knew that
God had chosen the nation of Israel for His own, but when they chose to reject Him, He opened the door to any who chose to believe Him and abide by His commandments.  First God chose, then we chose--He has always given us the power of choice.

God revealed Himself to the nation of Israel in mighty works so they would know how much He loved them.  He reveals Himself to us, still by doing mighty works in our lives when we allow Him to do so. 

I remember a time when I persecuted anyone who tried to get me to believe in the Bible.  I challenged them to explain how they "knew" whether or not the words were interpreted accurately, who was the witness that could confirm it, and on and on.  When I reached a place in my life where I had nothing else to read in my house, but the Bible, I read it.  I have always been an avid reader of almost anything, but at the time I read my bible, I was in financial straits and could not purchase books the way I once had.  I worked hours that curtailed my ability to get to a library and so here I was--wanting something to read and the Bible was there.  It took me two months to read (starting with the Gospel of John) through the New Testament and then I worked my way back through the Old Testament to get a better understanding of what was said in the New.  God's plan worked!  I now understood why things had happened the way they did.  When I received the gift of salvation and speaking in tongues, I knew I had been wrong and was so ashamed, I wished I could go back and find those people I had taunted.  But God in His infinite wisdom (and sense of humor) used me to promote the Gospel by encouraging people to read the bible for themselves and then open themselves to hear Him, revealing understanding of His Word.

Though I never had anyone tortured for their beliefs, I can certainly relate to Paul's words.  I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ because it is the power to renew life, retain joy in the midst of trials, the avenue to having a personal relationship with God and ability to have communication on a brand new level.  I am ashamed of my behavior and conduct to those I once taunted for their beliefs, but I am not ashamed of who I am or whose I am and I will tell it--from the valley to the mountain-tops--and if people do not receive it; that is not my responsibility.  My job is to tell it, their job is make a choice to receive what I say or not, the end result is on God!  Hallelujah!