We'll Keep Trying Until Heard!

Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. Each one should test their own actions.  Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load. Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from their flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:1-10 NIV

The Word of God is yet speaking to all who will hear and for those of us who preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we have to keep trying to reach others with the Gospel until we are heard. We also have to keep trying until we are heard about other things in life as it pertains to doing things--especially to those who belong to Jesus. What about those who don't belong? What is our obligation to them? We keep speaking truth until we are heard, even when they rebuke us, attempt to abuse us, and belittle us. We keep trying until we are heard. Never has that premise been more important than it is right now.

America is in a state of near crisis with the fallout of impending investigations against the residents in the White House (seemingly all of them) and as a result, not much is being accomplished by way of actual governing. It would appear that trump had determined from the beginning of his tenure that he didn't want any "advice from the swamp." He is yet referencing the political arena in Washington as the swamp, without realizing that he has not drained it, but restocked it with more toxic and dangerous pariahs than existed before he got there. Though he claims the White House is a dump (via a Golf magazine), his being there devalues the history and sacredness of all the White House symbolizes for one who is supposed to be the leader of the free world.

Recent information leads me to believe he never wanted to be there, but wanted to humiliate Hillary and Obama. The only person he has humiliated so far has been himself. He is a one-man wrecking crew of all that is sacred and presidential. His one goal--other than making a spectacle of himself has been to keep his base chanting, "Lock her up," apparently because he has forgotten he won a rigged election and there has never been a reason to lock up Hillary Clinton. Of course, the chant work to keep his crowds at rallies fueled by the hatred, but who's going to save him when the rest of the world starts chanting, "lock him up?"

That chant won't be held at a campaign rally but on the world stage as we watch his entire façade collapse around him and all the evidence is presented against him for RICO Violations or collusion or a number of other things-including obstruction of justice and just being plain foolish. If he didn't want to govern, he never should have run for president; especially since there seems to be so much he was trying to hide.

Hiding things from people is one thing, but God has said that everything done in the dark will be exposed in the light of day. His repetitive objections to Robert Mueller's investigative boundaries have been heard loud and clear. He's fearful because he has something to hide; if he didn't he would have no need to fear. The real problem is his only way to deal with impending defeat is to stir up his base with lies, ahead of any final conclusions, in hopes that he'll keep them ready to defend him.
What he has done so far that we know about--is indefensible--whatever is exposed through investigation will result with the same attitudes by many--indefensible, and we who know truth, will not defend him.

But there are those who have been gaslighted--brainwashed into believing his lies and they will need time to regroup and rethink their blind loyalty to a man who is loyal to no one other than himself. We've tried talking to them, but they responded with belittling comments and name-calling. We're tried directing them to information needed to corroborate what we say, and we've been accused of being elitist or having a "cosmopolitan bias." What they fail to realize is that he is the "elitist" one who is taking them for a ride which will prove bumpy and hazardous by the time it's over. But we won't stop trying until we're heard.

Part of my desire to serve America as the next president is because of my love of country and fellow Patriots. I do know how to do good things for others without the need to grandstand or be the center of attention wherever I go. I know how to serve in humility and am grateful for all who support me in all things. I encourage others who have been disdained by trump followers to not stoop to their level, but to raise the bar and to engage on a level that will bring them understanding, not condescension.  It's harder than it sounds and it takes a great deal of effort not to react to their comments, but to respond to them. I'm living it on a daily basis and because God loves, He gets me through it all.

There will be a few more chapters written to this saga--the trump era in the White House--before I get my turn, but know that no matter what, we'll keep trying until we are heard, to make sure we can live in peace and harmony, respecting and loving one another, not hating one another.

Thanks for your kindness and support in reading my thoughts and sharing them whenever you're led to do so. I encourage you to keep up with my campaign efforts by visiting www.facebook.com/YesIAm2020 often since the information is constantly updated.

In Humility!

The path of life leads upward for the prudent to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead. The LORD tears down the house of the proud, but he sets the widow’s boundary stones in place.The LORD detests the thoughts of the wicked, but gracious words are pure in his sight. The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live. The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.The LORD is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous. Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding. Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD, and humility comes before honor. Proverbs 15:24-33 NIV

It is with great humility that I acknowledge the quest I've taken upon myself is going to be the biggest challenge experienced in my life.

Though there are some who may be hesitant to grasp the reality of a potential presidential run by me, others have embraced the idea to the point of being willing to board the bandwagon that as yet, has no wheels. I am thoroughly humbled by their trust and support and candidness.

I remember saying to my walking buddy, that in this place and time (as always with me), I need people to help with my campaign, but I don't want anyone around who is simply going to agree with everything I say. I need people in my life right now who will question everything I do--to ignite critical thinking about everything I say or do. I'm not afraid of correction and when I'm wrong, I'll be the first to admit it.

There is much I do not know about undertaking the challenges of a presidential run, but I'm an avid researcher and know how to say, "Uncle" and call upon others who have the knowledge and expertise that I don't. I'm willing to learn and work hard to earn the trust and respect of those who believe in me and to maintain their trust and respect.

One person expressed their concern about me risking trading my faith because of all the unethical behavior associated with politics or compromising my stance with regard to biblical principles that I teach and write about--prolifically. I appreciate her concern and addressed it and she was assured that I would do nothing without putting the issue before The Lord and would obey Him.

Now, I realize that my belief in the Bible and relationship with Jesus Christ may cause some to halt--mid-stream in a desire to support my run and I can certainly understand it. But let me say this much to clear the air before we even start to put those wheels on the bandwagon. I have not changed my views about what God has said and won't change my views about what God has said. I recognize that people--every human being capable of making a logical decision--have a right to do so without my intervention. Though I may not agree with their lifestyle or decisions, none of that will stop me from loving them as a human being and praying for them to receive God's best for their lives.

God is pro-choice (giving us all free-will and not forcing us to do anything) and therefore, I am pro-choice. This does not mean I am pro-abortion, nor does it mean that I or anyone else has a right to tell anyone else what to do with their lives. I believe that every woman has a right to make the best decision she can about her life and I know there are situations in which an abortion is the right choice and the only person who has to live with the choice, is the person making the decision--not me or others.

I cannot see myself--as a Born-Again Believer--attempting to force my views upon others when I don't have to live their life. I am concerned about all life--especially the lives of babies, mothers, children, senior citizens,  and students and know that it is the responsibility of the Believer to take defend the rights of the poor, vulnerable and needy. So while I admit, I do not understand the choices some people make (and I'm sure that's equally true in how others feel about me), I can respect their right to make decisions about their lives. As long as a person's rights don't infringe upon mine or mine infringe upon them--we're good. The wisest people know that whether we agree about anything or not, there are consequences for everything we do that will impact our lives either negatively or positively.

I've also been reminded how the enemy will work overtime in trying to dig up dirt in an effort to create animosity against me. I know what people cannot find to undermine me they will manufacture in an attempt to discredit me. I can't stop them. People can say whatever they want to say and nothing they say defines truth about me or others. Therefore, they can have at it. I do not have to respond to foolishness or stupidity or trumped up allegations about anything and I won't. As I pointed out to a couple of people--my life is "literally" an open book. Anything, anyone wants to know me--good, bad, indifferent--can be found in one of my books or in a blog post and they're all available online. I have nothing to hide.

Knowing the challenges I'll be facing over the coming months will certainly keep me communicating with my Daddy and because He loves me, He'll guide me every step of the way. If by chance I happen to misunderstand something He's telling me, Holy Spirit will be right there to remind me and set me back on track.

Father,
Thank You for wisdom and insight and humility to understand I need You--every hour of every day--I need You. Thank you for loving me, correcting, and my guiding me in all that needs to be done and for sending people in my direction that can and will keep the wheels on the bandwagon turning in the direction in which You would have us to go. Remind me that nothing I do or encourage others to do should be done in an effort to bring glory to anyone other than You.
In Jesus' name I pray and thank You, Amen!

Who's Negotiating For Us?

Then Abraham approached him and said: “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city? Will you really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous people in it?Far be it from you to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, treating the righteous and the wicked alike. Far be it from you! Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” The LORD said, “If I find fifty righteous people in the city of Sodom, I will spare the whole place for their sake.” Then Abraham spoke up again: “Now that I have been so bold as to speak to the Lord, though I am nothing but dust and ashes, what if the number of the righteous is five less than fifty? Will you destroy the whole city for lack of five people?” “If I find forty-five there,” he said, “I will not destroy it.” Once again he spoke to him, “What if only forty are found there?” He said, “For the sake of forty, I will not do it.”Then he said, “May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak. What if only thirty can be found there?” He answered, “I will not do it if I find thirty there.” Abraham said, “Now that I have been so bold as to speak to the Lord, what if only twenty can be found there?” He said, “For the sake of twenty, I will not destroy it.Then he said, “May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak just once more. What if only ten can be found there?” He answered, “For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it.When the LORD had finished speaking with Abraham, he left, and Abraham returned home. Genesis 18:23-33 NIV

Abraham was a great negotiator because God's favor rested upon him.
Who has the favor of God resting upon them now--in a time of need to save millions of people--who is negotiating on their behalf? Good people obtain favor from the LORD, but he condemns those who devise wicked schemes. Proverbs 12:2 NIV

Just like The Lord was willing to negotiate with Abraham for the sake of the city of Sodom, He is willing to negotiate with us--through Holy Spirit--for the sake of the millions who risk losing their healthcare because of the wicked schemes devised by those on Capitol Hill and in the White House.

For the effectual, fervent prayers of the righteous avail much. The righteous and Holy Spirit can do marvelous things for the sake of people who know Him and even those who out of ignorance don't acknowledge Him--not the ones who reject Him, but those who never knew Him.

A righteous, just God does not judge people by those things they never knew, only what they claim to know. So when someone claims to be a Christian, but does not live a Christian life, they set themselves up for judgment more so than the persons who never claimed to know God.

The "so-called" negotiator in the WH resorts to threats and bribes in order to have his way, but those 
who know God, who are humbled by His love and favor, know how to please God and never resort to "the pettiness of mere mortals" in order to get what they want. We are told in God's Word by The Word, whatever we desire is ours when we ask for it in the name of Jesus.

I therefore urge the righteous to keep being righteous and humble and to keep seeking the favor of The Lord while praying on behalf of the millions who may know or may not know Him , but will benefit from having true negotiators, negotiating for all.

And while praying, keep calling upon those in Congress letting them know where you stand on all issues that impact your life and the lives of others. If we never let them know where we stand, they'll never know if their decisions are truly based upon the wishes of those who put them in office.

There are millions of people counting upon Congress and we who know God, know the power of negotiation is not with those sitting in seats of authority in Washington, but the One who seats on the Seat of Authority in heaven. He can and will speak to the hearts of all who are willing to hear Him and obey.

Father, in the name of Jesus, we ask that if we have favor in Your sight, that You will grant our humble petitions to keep all Americans in a position to maintain their health coverage--at an affordable cost--so none will be without and can live all the days You have determined them to live. Speak to the hearts of those in position of authority and remind them they are there because of the will of the people and not by their own design. Thank You for using even the 32 who were willing to stand on their principles--knowing how to best serve the needs of their constituents. Amen!

Humility!

The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility. Proverbs 15:33 KJV

Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility. Proverbs 18:12 KJV

In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5 NIV

By definition--humility is not an act--an attempt to fool others, but it is the essence of sincerity demonstrated by what we say or do. Per the dictionary--"the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank, etc."

When we are truly sincere--saying or doing--from the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks--and we don't have to tell anyone, we are being sincere, they'll know it by what they see or hear.

Solomon reminds us that when we have reverential fear--respect--of The Lord, we receive instruction from Him because He is the only wise person and then when act upon the instructions given, we do not need to boast of anything--bringing attention to ourselves, but we always point people in the direction of Him and He then allows to be honored by mankind. Solomon also tells us that when a person experiences destruction (defeat) it is because of their haughty heart--arrogance in their thinking themselves superior to others. This is especially true of those who think they are a "savior" and promote themselves as such, saying things like, "I'm the only one who can fix all the wrong in the world."

There is only one Savior and His job has already been completed on the cross. But He has given us power to do all things well through Him. When we acknowledge that it is His grace, mercy and goodness that guided us in all we do that honors Him, He honors us with favor from all we meet. Walking in God's favor, without drawing attention to self, is the greatest knowledge in the world to me--and I know--without living to please Him, I cannot walk in His favor.

How does God honor us? I cannot speak for others, but I can certainly speak to what He's done for me. I have obtained jobs--positions for which I did not meet the criteria--initially--but His favor was showered upon me and not only did I get the jobs, but I learned quickly and was promoted into other positions. Instead of bragging about me, I expressed an interest in the job and learning all I could to be a benefit to the place where I worked. At one job, because of my ability to get things done, within the my first year of being with the company, a promotional position was created--just for me--in order for them to adjust my salary based upon my worth to them (so my boss at that time said). That's God's favor--not my ability. All I did was what I knew to do.

When we truly humble--we don't need to broadcast, "I mean it sincerely, believe me", rant or rave in order to get attention. God already knows our heart and when we honor Him in what we say and do, He honors us with His favor. We don't have to beg for it or pray for it--He simply gives.

Humility--is also not a "tone of voice" especially when the words we speak have not changed their tone. We can whisper hateful, spiteful words and that is not a show of humility. True humility considers the words before they are spoken, before they hit the airwaves and are mindful of those who are going to hear them. We can shout our praise for God and demonstrate humility because it's not about us, but about Him.

Understanding who He is and all He has done for us, ignites humility in all who love Him because our desire is to please Him and not ourselves.

Have Mercy O God!

Listen to what the LORD says: “Stand up, plead my case before the mountains; let the hills hear what you have to say.  “Hear, you mountains, the LORD’s accusation; listen, you everlasting foundations of the earth. For the LORD has a case against his people; he is lodging a charge against Israel. “My people, what have I done to you? How have I burdened you? Answer me. I brought you up out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. I sent Moses to lead you, also Aaron and Miriam. Micah 6:1-4 NIV
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Listen! The LORD is calling to the city— and to fear your name is wisdom— “Heed the rod and the One who appointed it. Am I still to forget your ill-gotten treasures, you wicked house, and the short ephah, which is accursed? Shall I acquit someone with dishonest scales, with a bag of false weights? Your rich people are violent; your inhabitants are liars and their tongues speak deceitfully. Therefore, I have begun to destroy you, to ruin you because of your sins. Micah 6:6-13 NIV

While many people do not believe what the prophets of old said are relevant to this day, I beg to differ. If we read--with understanding--and carefully consider how our lives today are parallel to the times when God used the prophets, we see the similarities--but will we hear and obey?

The biggest difference in what was done then and now is--God spoke through specific people warning the people--those willing to hear and speak what He said. Today, all who desire to know--have access to His Word and Holy Spirit--we have the means to hear without a middleman--if we choose to hear. When we choose to ignore God and all He has done for us--we reap the consequences of our actions and if we're completely honest with ourselves, we can hear Him asking us the same questions.

What does He require of us--to treat others with love, mercy and justice--and to walk humbly--showing humility in all we do--not boastful or bragging about what we've done or said and certainly, knowing how to be empathetic and compassionate. Are we doing it?

Are those who are dishonest and cheat others going to be receive anything from God? Yes, they will receive the appropriate consequence for their actions because God sees everything we have ever done and knows everything we will ever do.

Are the rich violent--either in action themselves or provoking others to act violently towards others?  Are we lying--just to get what we want or do we know how to speak truth? Are we allowing out tongues to rule us deceitfully, hoping others will not expose the deceit? While no one has to answer these questions asked on this blog, God is waiting--for us to respond to Him with answers that are truthful and without any attempt to conceal the reality of what we do. Are we ready to answer Him?

When we attempt to conceal our lies and deceptions--they are ultimately exposed for all the world to see (or at least in front of those we were trying to deceive) and we stand naked--with nothing to cover us, nothing to shield us from the onslaught of criticism that is bound to come. So why lie and deceive? The enemy has discovered the flaws in our nature and has used them against us so he won't be alone--in the lake of fire for all eternity. Don't be caught with defenses down! The enemy's job is to kill--we see the result of his influence, daily; to steal--the joy of everyone who loves; to destroy--any hope that others have for a better day; he is the father of liars--so he influences others to lie and the master of deception--always masquerading as something good until he gets close enough or has influenced enough people--to do the most horrific things we can imagine.

What can we do? Pray, pray, and pray. We pray for ourselves to hear God and then act in obedience to what He tells us and we pray for mercy--His forgiveness for our foolishness so we'll have opportunity to get things right before Him.

Have mercy upon us, O God!

The Heart of The Humble!

“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar. “Two things I ask of you, LORD; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.  “Do not slander a servant to their master, or they will curse you, and you will pay for it. Proverbs 30: 5-10 NIV

The heart of humble speaks!

Think for a moment about the speaker in this passage of scripture and then read the entire chapter. Agur--acknowledges his human failings and speaks to them to others.

He understands The Word of God and warns people about attempting to change it.

He understands that lies and falsehoods--however they are cloaked with deceptive language are not acceptable.

He understands that neither riches or poverty will make a difference in how God treats people.

He understands what most people--especially our politicians, don't--the deceptive practices--on behalf of both parties--are not acceptable to God.

Though my thoughts this morning were not to make a political statement with the scriptural reading, this fits so well, especially in light of the so-called, "regret" uttered by a person who smirks as he speaks. No humility shown whatsoever and no real apology made about all the things he's said. And in the next breath, focuses his attention on his opponent to talk about her.

What was even more amazing to me was to see his new campaign manager, lie with a straight face, but her eyes gave her away along with the false smile that didn't come from within.

The humble heart--speaks from the heart--and the sincerity is seen and heard. The humble heart--when it knows a wrong has been committed, will apologize--specifically--to the wrongs done. The humble heart--seeks private as well public exoneration of any act in which they are sincerely sorry about and want to make amends. The humble heart--does not seek public attention for acts of charity or compassion. The humble heart--knows God and wants to please Him, not people or a political party.

That's what the humble heart does!

When we see what people do--in the public eye--we know whether or not they  have read The Word, understand The Word, and live The Word. We know, by what we see and hear--who truly has a humble heart and who doesn't.

Americans are smarter than some give us credit for. We know humility when we see it and when we don't.

Tooting Your Own Horn!

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips. Proverbs 27:1,2 NIV

I can remember as a kid hearing the "older folks" say, "When you have to toot your own horn, you're just making noise." They would go on to explain that when a person has really done something worthwhile, praise coming from other people about the accomplishment means so much more than when a person exalts themselves.

That makes sense to me. Hearing someone else tell you how great you are at doing anything does two things for the average person. It bolsters confidence and instills humility at the same time.

I'm usually amazed at some of the things people say to me; especially since I don't see me the way others see me. I'm competitive--by nature--and I'm usually competing with myself--always trying to find a way to do something better. As a kid, while other kids were outside playing, I was in the house reading a book because I wanted to be a better reader. When we (the girls) played sports with the boys, I wanted to be a better player, so I didn't play like the girls (Miss Prissy); I played like the boys and was a tomboy until after I was fifteen years old. I loved playing touch football and beating the boys we played against. But it was because of those boys that I learned how to swing a bat and release after a hit without knocking someone out with the bat. I learned how to play basketball really well competing with the boys because they were taller and I had to try harder.

As an educator, I am always surprised when a colleague tells me what other students say about me. Personally, I thought my students hated my guts, so when either students or instructors tell me how my former Hearing that makes me feel like I really have to step up my game--to keep the momentum going because I don't want to disappoint me or others. students recommend me to others--that's invigorating, yet humbling. And though I think I'm a pretty good teacher, but I've seldom said that to anyone. I'm creative and always looking for new ways to present basic--humdrum information because I don't like being bored.

When introducing myself to a new class, I simply tell them my name and give them their first writing assignment--to Google me and then write about what they discover.  They share what they discover with the class and we move on from that point. I want them to know--I know about writing, but I don't think I should spend class time trying to convince them.

So, when implementing this particular proverb to my daily life--I'd rather hear what others have to say about me than to say anything about me. Since I don't see me as others do, I probably wouldn't do a good job of telling anyone anything. I see me with the flaws and imperfections, but thankfully, a number of people look past them or don't recognize them until I say something about them.

More importantly, I strive to please God, not people. I know if I live according to His Word, more than likely He'll be pleased, even when I don't think I'm good enough--I know, He still loves me. And maybe, just maybe, I'm a little too hard on myself. But I'd rather look at me--with a critical eye, than to look at me with an appraising eye and attempt to say anything about me.

What I've discovered about most people is this--if they have to tell who they are--chances are--they are not all they think they are. The more people brag about themselves, the greater the likelihood that others will see their flaws and not their accomplishments. That's what happens when we have to toot our own horns; we invite closer inspection.

What Are You Wearing?

But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Colossians 3:8-14 NIV

Styles--what we wear--in clothes, shoes, and other apparel--often change as rapidly as we can blink our eyes. But whether we follow the trendiness of all these changes doesn't matter. It's not the clothes who make us who we are--it is who we are that makes a difference in what we wear--not only materially, but spiritually.

I know some people can hardly wait for the new fashion seasons to start and those with money--big money--have a "must-have" mentality and will go anywhere and pay any amount to have what they want to wear--to make sure people pay attention to them. We know this because "red carpet" events always emphasize what people are wearing--on the outside. But what resides on the inside of the person? That's what usually comes out and determines the character of the person.

If a person looks good on the outside, but nothing worth having resides on the inside--bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, rage, jealousy, bigotry and hatred--nothing they put on the shell of the body will make a difference in the greater scheme of things. Why? Because God looks upon the heart--not the outside--of anyone.

It won't matter how much money a person spends to make themselves look good on the outside if the inside--the spirit person--is need of cleansing and renewal. What happens in the "renewal process" of the sinner to the saint--cannot be purchased for any amount of money--we either submit to God's leading or we don't.

So, if we think we are something when we are nothing--we only fool ourselves and the real "us" will be seen in how we treat others. Time to change clothes yet?

If we ever expect to see unity--of all mankind--determined to be submitted to Holy Spirit and do things out of obedience--we must learn to wear love as tightly knit garment to hold in the virtues of compassion, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, peace, humility, and righteousness--keeping out all of the old stuff--belonging to the un-regenerated person.

Now, what are you wearing?

What The Lord Requires!

"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God"(Micah 6:8 NIV).

Whenever God is getting ready to do something extraordinary, He finds those who are willing to hear Him and speak what He says. Through the prophets of old and those who "speak" as God speaks to them now, He never does anything without giving us fair warning. The problem is--like those of old who went into captivity--we choose not to hear those God is using to warn us and when calamity hits--we blame God.

Listen to the prophet Micah! God has shown us what is good and acceptable in His sight--those things that we mere mortals can do and what we receive from obedience. What does the Lord require of us? To act justly--without bias due to disagreement, to love mercy--willing to forgive those who have violated a trust or committed a wrong against us, and to walk humbly before God--not thinking we are better than any other human being.

Are we listening? Do we understand what the Lord requires? Based upon my observations--especially on social medias--we have not heard, we are not listening, and we are certainly not doing what the Lord requires. There is such hatred spread in cyberspace for those with whom people disagree--by those who claim to be Christians. The fact that they can hate so openly, exposes them for the liars they are and who their daddy is--Satan. Where is the justice we show to those who disagree with us? Our opinions of them are bias and we allow that bias to grow into disdain and hate. The very words we write and the "cartoons" we use to depict our growing disdain reveals our true inner selves. Where is the mercy? There is little displayed towards those in elected positions--the leaders in authority. Were we not told to pray for those in authority so we might live a peaceful life? Obviously, we are not praying for those in authority because we're spending too much time, denigrating those in authority--unable to mask the hatred that dwells within in our hearts.

Then we dare to attempt to think ourselves better than others--claiming the name of Jesus, but actually demoralizing who Jesus is with our behavior. Jesus commanded us to "love one another" as He loves us. We cannot love someone and spew hate about them at the same time. Doing so makes us hypocritical and a liar. We cannot serve God and Satan at the same time--we either magnify and honor one or the other with our deeds, but we cannot honor both.

Micah and the rest of the prophets had a great deal to say--warning the people of impending disaster, but people didn't listen then and they are certainly not listening now. When God was silent for over 400 years, the people were miserable--because they chose not to heed those speaking--and refused to change their behavior.

God is yet warning, yet requiring us to act with justice, mercy and humility. Are we hearing Him? Will we ever do what He says in order to see what He has promised us as a nation or will we just complain and undermine the authority of leaders by promoting hatred? God help us all!

Father, in the name of Jesus, we pray for leadership all over the world. We ask You to speak to their hearts, giving them a word of wisdom and direction so all may live in peace and honor You. Fill them with love overflowing and stop the mouths of those who promote hatred against them. Lord, Your will be done in the lives of all--preparing us to reap what we have sown in the earth. Forgive us for our foolish and rebellious attitudes and help us to see You in Your glory so all we do, magnifies You and not us. Thank You for giving us chance after chance to get it right. Amen!

Planter or Waterer?

"I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth" (I Corinthians 3:6 NASB).

Within this text we understand that Paul's response to the church at Corinth was a reminder to them about humility. He went on to say that neither the planter or the waterer had anything to brag about because it is God who causes the growth of the church. What does this mean for the 21st Century Church? The exact same thing. None of us should get caught up with thinking we are more than we are simply because of what we say or write to people.

Whenever we do what it is we do, we usually do not know if we are planting the seed of The Gospel or watering the seed that someone else planted. Since this is true, we cannot take credit for anyone acknowledging their coming  into the knowledge of Christ, because it is not what we do, but what God does--creates a change of heart--within the person receiving the Good News.

This is a passage of scripture (the entire chapter) that many should read, over and over again--especially when they start thinking  their church is the only one people should attend. While I believe we certainly don't need more churches, I would be hard pressed to say that any one church is the only one teaching the truth of God's Word. There are many people who attend large churches because it is a status statement. There are some who attend small churches because they love the personal attention. Whatever a reason people attend, someone had to say something to create in them a desire to come. Chances are--it was not those in leadership who shared The Word, but someone else and God spoke to the person's heart and guided them there.

Let's face it--we are nothing without God. We can do nothing great without God. What we can do is our assignment--with His guidance--never knowing which role we are playing--as planter and waterer and leave the final results up to Him.

We have a job to do, so let's get it done. Whether you are planter or waterer, you have a role to play in spreading the Good News. Let's fill up on The Word so we can move out and see the glory of the Lord upon all who are willing to receive.

Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to better understand our role and create a desire in us to do all things with humility, giving You the glory for all we do.