If Not Now, When?

Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer. How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. Many, Lord, are asking, "Who will bring us prosperity?" Let the light of your face shine on us. Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4 NIV

For those actively involved in The Resistance, we have won a small battle, but the war is not over. We must continue the fight against injustice and an unjust person in the WH.

For those who were not actively involved, what's holding you back? Are you waiting for God to come down out of the clouds and speak to you personally about defending the rights of the poor and the needy? He has already said what we are to do in His Word.

For Christians to not know that it is our responsibility to defend the rights of the poor, needy and vulnerable, what is it going to take to get that through to hearts? How can anyone say they are a Christian and not do what Jesus did and told us to do--love?

If not now, when will it be a good time to demonstrate our love for God and in obeying His Word?
If not now, when will it be a good time to repudiate the notion that God chose trump to be the president of the United States when all he has done--indicates his love and fear of Putin is greater than his love for America?

If not now, when will Christians lift up the name of Jesus in their conduct and not just lip service by caring for all human beings and in protecting their rights?

If not now, when will Evangelical leaders remember they are supposed to follow after God and all He has put on their hearts to do--according to His Word--not their personal agendas.

If not now, when will those sitting in churches, listening to those promoting hatred and bigotry of others have the courage to get up and walk out--letting the leadership know, why they're leaving?
If not now, when will people stand up and speak out against those who perpetuate hatred against other human beings?

God is not pleased with our lack of compassion for other human beings, our treatment of those who are not like us and certainly our lack of concern for the rights of the poor, needy, and vulnerable. If anyone thinks that God is going to bless them for promoting hatred and embracing the lies of a liar, think again. God hates liars and has prepared a place for them all in the lake of fire.

People have rejected the most qualified person on the planet to be in the Oval Office and elected a "Napoleon wannabe" as a leader of the free world. He has accused President Obama of not being a strong leader (like Putin) and yet he has failed to be an "effective leader" since he has no clue what it means to be a public servant. He wants to be a dictator--who abides by no rules or policy or protocol--and uses threats and attempts to intimidate others--being a cowardly bully instead of a leader. He has refused to accept the fact that he cannot govern a nation run like one of his failed businesses. The chaos in the White House will continue until the people--all the sane folks in America--wake up and see that it's time for a real change--and if not now, when?

In 2018, the people must balance those in Congress so they'll be forced to work for the people, not a party agenda. In 2020, we must elect a president who understands the struggles and challenges Everyday Americans face and who will represent Everyday Americans and not a personal agenda. I'm an Everyday American who has lived the challenges most of us face and I know, I can and will represent all Americans since I have no personal or political agenda to achieve--other than doing what is best for all Americans.  Your support in this endeavor is appreciated.

Never Giving Up!

They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work. So I continued the work with even greater determination. Nehemiah 6:9 NLT

This is what I feel watching GOP attempting to dismantle the ACA and risking the lives of millions of people. They are consumed with a 7-year promise to repeal ACA (out of hatred for President Obama) and not even paying attention to their constituents who now understand that the "hated Obamacare" is the needed ACA that many depend on to use. This is what happens when people lie and allow hate to reign rather than wisdom and the love of Christ. GOP--with Mitch McConnell leading the way was determined to obstruct President Obama and make sure he was not able to accomplish anything--from day one. In spite of the obstructionist attitude and behavior--President Obama was able to accomplish much and all of it--the GOP are now determined to rollback, throw out, and eliminate--because of hatred.

The GOP hated Obama, trump hates Obama and with all that hate--there can be no room for love--just hate and hate as we all know destroys utterly and completely. The GOP will be destroyed utterly and completely if they don't wake up and pay attention to their constituents and not the crazed idiot in the WH (I cannot bring myself to call him a "man" because he has not demonstrated that he is one. So, if you're upset with me now, you're going to be upset with me for a long time).

In spite of the hatred against ACA and Democrats in general, I will continue to pursue the path to the White House, never giving up, no matter what the idiots do.

My family's history--has provided a record of endurance, courage, boldness and determination. They were brought across the ocean, ripped from their families and only known culture. They were denied identity other than what the "white man" wanted them to have. They were treated like sub-human beings, forced to work on empty stomachs, never consideration. They were freed by the signature of Abraham Lincoln, but kept entangled and bound by fear and hatred by Jim Crow laws.

Civil rights laws have yet to bring an era of true freedom for the Black Community and with the GOP in position of the majority in Congress, we are taking a regressive route in the 21st Century rather than seeing forward movement as it pertains to positive race relations in this country. Hate crimes are on the rise against anyone with "brown or black" skin tones, different religious beliefs, and misogyny is also on the rise. All of this is a result of gullible people (with hidden hatred of those who are different than them) who voted for the greatest fraud and con artist who ever lived--trump.

Though many may feel there is no hope--I will never give up and I will continue the good fight of faith--in service to my country and fellow True Patriots who understand that every American deserves equal treatment in all things. We will Raise the Standards for all Americans.

Counting on fellow Americans who think like Christ to support my bid for president in 2020. I'm not seeking financial support at this time, just your vote to guarantee we will have a voice in Washington representing the Everyday American.

Silent!

Let me not be put to shame, LORD, for I have cried out to you; but let the wicked be put to shame and be silent in the realm of the dead. Let their lying lips be silenced, for with pride and contempt they speak arrogantly against the righteous.How abundant are the good things that you have stored up for those who fear you, that you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you. In the shelter of your presence you hide them from all human intrigues; you keep them safe in your dwelling from accusing tongues. Praise be to the LORD, for he showed me the wonders of his love when I was in a city under siege.In my alarm I said, “I am cut off from your sight!” Yet you heard my cry for mercy when I called to you for help. Love the LORD, all his faithful people! The LORD preserves those who are true to him, but the proud he pays back in full. Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD. Psalm 31:17-24 NIV

There is a time to be silent so we can hear The Lord and then there are times when our silence becomes the death knoll for those who don't have a platform or venue in which to speak. I choose to be silent long enough to hear what The Lord is speaking to my heart and then empowered by His love and wisdom, I boldly stand up and speak out against injustice and liars.

Now is not the time to be silent when our government is running amuck with plans being made to benefit only the rich 2% of the nation's population. The other 98% deserve the same consideration of any and all policies and anything less--will not be tolerated.

Now is the time and America is the place for all who understand--JUSTICE FOR ALL--to resist the terrorist in the White House and stand up and speak out before all is lost for generations to come.

Silence in the midst of turmoil and chaos is consent to everything happening around us. Don't be part of the problem--be a part of the solution that all may live in peace and prosper as our souls prosper--do the right thing at all times.

Many were silent when the Jews were being arrested and transported to camps were they were killed-- when had they had the courage to stand up and speak out--those killed would still be here. We cannot allow history to repeat itself and encourage genocide of the poor and the elderly with the current health plan engineered to enrich insurance companies and all those republicans who are heavily invested in them.We cannot allow the round-up and deportation of immigrants to continue--separating families--of people who only wanted a better life--not a bitter one.

Stand up America! Now is not the time to be silent on issues that will impact the lives of all in a negative way.

Many are those who believed the lie the liar told and now that it's time for action, they too can see how they were misled and deluded by the fanfare accompanying the entertainer who has proven he is not equipped to govern.

Stand up America! Now is not the time to be silent on issues that will impact the lives of all for generations to come!

The clown in the White House proceeded to the position of a leader of the free world with assistance by Russian hacks, collusion, and false propaganda, and lies upon lies about his opponent--Hillary, but now--all who have eyes to see and ears to hear--understand what she was trying to warn us about and many more--saw the light, but the corrupted ones, kept her from the Oval Office and now we have the Twisted Terrorist making policies that will lead to the deaths of many.

Stand up America! Now is not the time to be silent! Now is the time to actively resist and oppose the terrorist in the White House.

Right Now Faith!

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead. By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. Hebrews 11:1-8 NIV (Read the entire chapter)

Many people claim to have faith in God and yet their actions refute their claim. How do we know? True faith, means we do not doubt--no matter what happens. For did not Jesus say that if we have faith--as tiny as a mustard seed--and did not doubt--we could move mountains?

This "now" faith differs depending upon how one explains it. Some say the "now" is an adjective--modifying faith and some say it is an adverb--indicating when. No matter how anyone explains it--faith--the confidence we have in God--to do what He said He'd do, whether we can see it or not, should be sufficient for the moment of our need. For if we can see the results of our faith, we no longer need to have faith for it.

We can declare by faith, that we will obtain a good job and proclaim it even though we don't see it--yet. While we're proclaiming it, we must do something in order for us to obtain what we say we believe. So now, we'll go to school or fine tune job skills until we get that job. "Faith without works, is dead." Once we have obtained the job desired, we no longer need faith "to get it," but we'll certainly need faith to keep it. So we perform the job with integrity and honor no matter what and even though we cannot see the end of days when we might leave it--we maintain our faith to keep it.

I've taken a rather circuitous route to get to this point--to encourage all those who are resisting the madness in the White House. Don't get discouraged! Maintain your faith in what you do to see that justice prevails for all and that we will see an end to the madness! We don't have to see how it's going to happen, but to have faith that it will happen--without doubting.

For all who read how the rest of the chapter relates the faith of those blessed by God--note this one thing: It was the individual's faith in God that was recognized and blessed and though some died--without seeing the end result of their faith--their faith in God was maintained. Though Noah had never seen rain before, his faith in what he knew God had told him to do, kept him going in building the ark, no matter how people laughed at him or ridiculed him, he kept building. When the rain came, they were no longer laughing, but it was too late for them to change course, once the ark was closed and sealed. I realize not everyone reading this believes in God or has a relationship with God, but I'm counting on my relationship with God and my faith in Him to know; all will be just as He planned it.

I'm counting on His love for us to see us through all the turmoil and chaos and we'll be left standing with a praise in our mouths, giving Him glory!

And that faith I have--is for right now--this very moment in the time of need for many who are fearful and distressed over what we see which causes us to doubt that God is able--right every wrong. Truth will prevail and every wrong deed will be avenged by God as we continue to fight the good fight of faith.

God Hasn't Forgotten!

I remembered my songs in the night. My heart meditated and my spirit asked: “Will the Lord reject forever? Will he never show his favor again?  Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time? Has God forgotten to be merciful? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?”Then I thought, “To this I will appeal: the years when the Most High stretched out his right hand. I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”Your ways, God, are holy. What god is as great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples. With your mighty arm you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph. The waters saw you, God, the waters saw you and writhed; the very depths were convulsed. The clouds poured down water, the heavens resounded with thunder; your arrows flashed back and forth. Your thunder was heard in the whirlwind, your lightning lit up the world; the  earth trembled and quaked.Your path led through the sea, your way through the mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen. You led your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron. Psalm 77:6-20 NIV

No matter how disappointed we get with the seemingly ignored events of those in the White House, we must remember that God has not forgotten us. He numbered the very hairs on our heads, knows our thoughts before we ever think them, and has planned a future for us to prosper us, not harm us.

He did not promise we would not encounter obstacles on the journey to receive what He has in store for us, but we can be assured we will receive all He has for us because God is not a man that He should lie. Considering how he abhors lies and liars, telling a lie would never be a consideration for God. When, we read His Word and live it, we can count on His plans being fulfilled even when we don't see how.

Just like He has not forgotten those who are waiting for deliverance from the evil in the White House, He has not forgotten those who perpetuate the evil and He will give them their due recompense for all the havoc and chaos they have created.

We may think we've gotten away with something when we shrug off the illicit behaviors that would cost people their jobs in a blink of an eye. God knows--and perhaps--He is allowing more humiliation to build before the fall occurs. Satan doesn't have a problem with anyone rising to high heights because the fall will devastate. And he will take out his own army.

Therefore, if we trust God, we can trust that He is not ignoring the plight of America. He will deal with all those who are not acting like they belong to Him in Congress--all those Republicans who are "afraid of the president" and not the people who voted for them. They have forgotten, the "so-called"president didn't elect them--the people did. God has also not forgotten those "church leaders" who promoted 45 as "God's Choice" for president and they, too will reap their just recompense.

If we believe God's Word is true, then we must know that none are exempt from receiving the recompense of their actions--no one--not the president or anyone else working in the White House--and violating the laws and policies of this land. The oath of office taken by the president, Congress, and cabinet appointees should have been taken seriously, for The Word tells, it is better not to  make vow, than to make a vow and not keep it. One would think--all those "so-called Christians in Congress" would know this. I guess they haven't read it for awhile.

At any rate, all the world will see soon and very soon that though evil crept into the midst of things--God has not forgotten. Vengeance is His and He will repay--bigly!
Don't forget--God has always used people--those who are willing to listen to Him and obey--to accomplish all of His plans. If God is speaking to your heart to get involved in the resistance movement (resisting against evil), don't hesitate to act, while you yet have a chance.

Where Our Confidence Should Be!

Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint. Proverbs 25:19 KJV
Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever.I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? The LORD taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.  Psalm 118:4-9 KJV

No matter what happens for the balance of this day, the year or my life, I know in whom I can trust and my complete confidence is in God--who knows the end from the beginning.

Though my confidence is in Him, I know that nothing worthwhile happens without active engagement. Therefore, I will be actively engaged in fighting injustice while I yet have the ability to breathe on my own and use my fingers to encourage others to stay in the battle until victory is won.

This was the attitude of the colonists who fought to get out from British rule and won forming the United States of America. These same Americans--those who resisted oppressive rule and domination--made provision for all who followed them to do the same--without reprisal from authoritarian leaders.

This is America--this is not a communist region under the thumb of a dictator and we will not be dominated by an ego-driven maniac who lacks self-discipline, wisdom and knowledge.

Every battle for justice has been won because people stood up and actively engaged in the process--for the Suffragettes, for Civil Rights, for Women's Rights, to protest Viet Nam involvement and for so many other matters--we stand up and speak up when we see our rights being trampled upon by those who would attempt to rule by bullying tactics. 

Silence implies consent in matters where people submit and cave to the dictates of others. Resistors are always the group of people who make change happen--we will not be silent and we will not stop standing, speaking up, marching, and writing opinions--expressing truths and giving voice to those who think they are not heard.

We will maintain our stance  like Noah who was mocked for building an ark and talking about rain; like Moses in the presence in the Pharaoh; like David standing against Goliath; like Job who refused to listen to his friends; like John the Baptist crying in the wilderness; like Jesus who knew what He had to do to save mankind, like Paul who though once an enemy to those "in the way" became a lion in promoting "the way."

We will not be silent so don't expect us to be quiet in the face of danger from a megalomaniac who does not know how to think and whose handlers are afraid to tell him the truth. 

The real impediment to peace in this country are those who think in boxes and never see the bigger picture. For one or two agendas, they promoted a pathological liar as God's choice for president. They overlooked the welfare of all Americans to appease the few. And now, the welfare--of all is in jeopardy--the sticky wickedness held in the web of deceit.

But my God--the creator of all things and without whom nothing was ever created--is faithful and just and it is in Him, my faith and confidence will continue--in spite of having a clown in the White House whose only concern is what appeases his ego and those who stroke it.

Lord, thank You for giving us the courage and strength to stand and remain standing against the wiles of the enemy, being a voice for those without a voice, resisting the evil that tries to encompass and rule us. We praise You for all Your mighty acts and for victory in all things that honor You. In Jesus' name I pray and thank You, Amen!

Not Crushed When Secrets Revealed!

Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:1-9 NIV

Why is it that truth makes people nervous and anxious?

If too many people understand truth when it's told by people who love truth, those who don't tell truth, fear exposure for the lies they've told. Why do people lie? They lie to cover truth and to control others or situations. For if they did not lie, they would have no control over others or the situations.

I know the truth I write is getting to people and I always know when it's hitting home. Why? They have nothing to say unless something I say nails them. And since so many people are upset by the truths I write, I'll continue to write them the way God gives them to me and I'm guessing their consciences will continue to be pricked--by truth.

The travesty that many people witnessed yesterday (and it was a travesty), will soon be evident to all--in America--and is already evident to many in other countries. America has allowed a loud-mouthed, cowardly bully to become the tantrum-throwing-toddler-in-chief. His supporters are delighted--giddy with giggling and gloating--for now. They refused to see or accept truth when it was told and shortly, they will know because all the lies will be exposed and truth will reign whether we like it or not.

Evangelical leaders will be exposed for the part they played in promoting a liar and a puppet in debt to Russia.

The media will be exposed for the part they played in placing ratings before truth and industries will collapse under the weight of guilt.

Every elected official will be exposed for their greed and desire to control the masses when the masses have not given them a mandate to do anything. They forget--just as the enablers tend to forget--261M people did not vote for the lying toddler-in-chief. 
 

If people have not recognized the seriously flawed, mentally unstable character that now resides in the White House, it is only because they refused to accept the truth and have made the toddler-in-chief, their god. He is not invincible and he will be exposed and all those who were colluding with him, will be exposed and the world will watch as our nation comes to a standstill watching the judgment take place.
 

 

But hey, don't take my word for it. Research always helps me to understand what I see and research The Word of God and for scientific and professional understanding, I research those areas as well. It doesn't take a genius to see the writing on the wall. Toddler-in-chief is not going to make America great again because the only people he cares about is himself and his family. The "people getting back power" are all the old white men who will make sure they keep their millions and billions and the poor and the needy will remain in that state. That's the simple truth.

For the complicated truth to be understood one would have to remove the blinders from their eyes and unstop their ears--see and listen--to what is being done and said. Then align it with everything going on in secret meetings and undisclosed investigations, knowledge that is being kept hidden, while our nation is at risk of being transformed into a Russian region.
 

 

For those of us who are resisting the toddler-in-chief's agenda, we know that we must stand up and speak out. If the colonists had not resisted the rule of England, we would not be Americans. If Dr. Martin Luther King and so many others had not resisted the slights against Black Americans, we would not have known opportunities or have received equity in treatment in so many areas. If Jesus had not resisted the Pharisees and the status quo of that day, we would not know salvation through His shed blood. No, we will resist and will not desist until victory is won and all has been exposed, with the expulsion of the toddler-in-chief.

But God knows all and I'm thankful for the insight He gives me to know all is not lost. Though we may be disappointed for a moment, the victory is His and we will all understand it by and by.

What We're Taught!

Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood. Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:1-8 NIV

Not every child was raised in a home where love was evident, practiced and expected. And whatever that child was taught or learned by observation and experiences early in life, that is what's carried over in adulthood.

A question that arises in the midst of any behavioral study is how long will it take for people to shed negative behaviors and replace them with constructive ones. The answer is not the same for all since some people, are more resistant to change and won't change until they see a necessity to change. People--don't change other people--an individual has to see the need to change themselves for any lasting change to be effective.

Some children are taught to hate within the environments they are raised. They hear and see how parents and other adults or peers treat people who are different and become ensconced in the behavior because for them--the behavior is normal. So calling people negative names based on skin color, location of where they live, gender, ethnicity, or religion is a learned behavior. Thinking they are superior to other human beings is also a learned behavior and when people feel this way, they think they have a right to make others feel inferior. When this type of behavior is reinforced by a person's living conditions--parents, community--it leads to the development of personality disorders and sociopathic disorders.

How do we recognize what adults were taught as children? By listening and watching. When adults cannot hold a conversation with another adult without resorting to name-calling, it is because of what they learned as a child and they have not successfully navigated that phase of life and it carries over into adulthood.

When people are taught to love--they are more tolerant, charitable, and generous. They believe in justice, fairness and equality for all. They know how to disagree, agreeably, understanding that not everyone is going to agree with everyone else. People who know how to love volunteer their services to make life a little easier for others. People who know how to love speak truth and abhor lies. People who know how to love--love unconditionally--everyone they meet.

Now, which group of people is a reflection of who God is? Those who love and know how to love, for God is love. Jesus said, "I am the way, the life and the truth." The bible also tells us that God hates  liars--and lying is an abomination to Him.

Based upon The Word--which is Donald Trump does not know God, has never had a relationship with God and certainly won't know how to govern with love reigning the only effective benchmark or standard by which we should measure anyone--in the White House. Therefore, since I do know God and all of His many attributes, I have no obligation to respect or honor the person who does not know God, and only inspires hatred.

People can do whatever they like in this matter for they have to deal with their own conscience, but I will not celebrate a person who has no redeemable qualities. Considering how his involvement in the hacking of the DNC, rigging of the election with promotion of false propaganda and blatant lies, and his obvious admiration for Putin, he will never be a legitimate president. I will resist and oppose his being a legitimate president every chance I get and I will support every group that seeks his removal from office.

Lord, save America from the tyranny that resides in the heart of one who does not know You and has never recognized You for who You are. Let truth and revelation be the standard bearer for all actions for all in positions of leadership in all areas of government. Move upon the hearts of those who have redeemable qualities and create a desire in them to change for the better and shed behaviors that are not of You. Let love abide in the hearts of all so peace can be obtained.  In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!

Knowing Your Gift!

For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Romans 12:4-10 NIV

One of the reasons many people never accomplish what God has planned for them is because they have really identified and refined the gift He has given each and every one of us. Every person has been given at least one gift and many have multiple gifts they have identified and refined--some natural and some spiritual, but we need the spiritual gifts to identify the natural, develop and fine-tune them.

What keeps people looking sideways at others as they move along the continuum of life--envying and coveting the gifts of others-- is they have lost their focus and never sought God for understanding of what He has given them. In order for us to walk the path He has designed for us, we must always seek Him, first.

There are times when it appears--to others--that some of us are off track, but that's because when we do things that seem unusual, we do them at God's guidance and not man's and therefore they would not understand. Being obedient to God is not always; especially when the outcome is uncertain and we have to complete an obstacle course, that could be perilous. Nevertheless, if we trust God, we must simply follow through on what He has spoken to our hearts and if others don't understand--it's okay.

When we look at Paul's life and how he started--being a stalwart defender of what he was taught by men--and then after his Damascus Road experience appeared to take a 180 degree turn in his promotion of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was actively engaged in the community of Believers and non-Believers--inspiring many and even though he lost his life--he was obedient to God.

I know some are concerned with my current direction in actively engaging in resisting a Trump presidency, but they can rest assured, I have spent time with The Lord and know I am obeying what He would have me do in this season. Whatever happens in the interim, I know--what He wants me to do and I know it is for the good of all, not just myself.

We know that in order for evil to reign and change the landscape--good people sit silently and watch it unfold--doing absolutely nothing. My gift is research and writing and then expounding upon the truths found--by any means necessary. That gift is not only meant in teaching God's Word, but in the secular setting in which we all reside on a daily basis. If I did not research a subject matter, I could not teach it effectively and if I am not teaching effectively, I am not utilizing the gifts He's given me.

Here's the thing--man has no ability to gift us with anything other than material items that will rust or fade in the course of time. The gifts God gives us are for our use for as long as we walk the earth. Therefore, I will not allow what people think of me--one way or the other--to hinder my obedience to God. I'm mindful of Noah when people thought he was crazy in building an ark and talking about rain when it had never rained; Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt; Daniel opening the window and praying out loud even though it was forbidden; Esther going to the King without being summoned. The list could go on and on.

The bottom line for me is--man has no eternal resting place for me, but my Father in Heaven does. Guess who I will obey? No matter what what happens, I'll know I played a part in the historical events unfolding in this season and will hold them dear to my heart.

Lord, open the eyes of those who are blinded by fear and whose hearts are clouded with doubt and uncertainty. Let them see there are more with us, than against us--both naturally and spiritually and that victory in Jesus will be celebrated.

We Are Not Russia's Puppets!

Responding to current revelations about our country and Russia's puppeteering of our election results. We must always stand against tyranny and injustice in whatever form it shows itself!

https://medium.com/@educatormary/will-the-real-men-in-congress-with-balls-please-stand-7d787df29d41#.niiftnf27

When The Redeemed Speak!

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story— those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south.  Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. Psalm 107:1-3, 8,9 NIV

Sometimes, when we have never experienced hardship, we don't understand the hardships, trials, and challenges that others face or endure.

We don't understand how a cancer patient feels when the treatment is debilitating-taking away the desire to eat, to move forward, and sometimes--even to live.

We don't understand how it feels to be homeless, fearful of not surviving to see another day because of the all the threats of harm living on the street, not knowing if we'll live to see another day.

We don't understand the trauma experienced by a new mother who realizes that are not emotionally equipped to deal with a new baby.

We don't understand how life leads people to become addicted to substances and those substances control all they do.

We don't understand how fathers leave families to survive without them.

We don't understand how mothers would abandon her children.

We don't understand how some women survive the trauma of being raped and abused and misused.

We don't understand how discriminatory practices make people feel like they are not part of the human race.

We don't understand why some people will never be considered Americans because of the color of their skin--even though they were born here and generations of family were born here and anthem was ever written.

We don't understand how one group of people can have more respect for a flag--a symbol that does not represent all people living within its borders--than they do people.

If we have never experienced injustice--for any reason--perpetrated against anyone--we don't understand how the victims of injustice feel and if we say we do--we lie.

But for those who have endured the hardships and negative experiences of life over which they had no control, and survived--they understand. And when the survivors--all of them realize that their surviving was not about them, but about God and His purpose for us--they should shout it from the rooftops--Our God reigns!

He is a healer. He is a provider. He is a protector. He is a deliverer. He is the seat of justice and we shall stand before Him one day. He is all we can ever need and He always hears the cries of those who love Him. Give Him praise and glory for it all belongs to Him!

You and You alone, O God are worthy of our praise! We are the redeemed because of Your mercy and grace. We are the chosen because of Your love towards and we are not ashamed to say, we belong to You! Worthy is the Lamb of God and greatly to be praised!

I am the redeemed of The Lord and I say so--loudly, consistently, proudly and boldly! Without God, where would I be? Who else could I run to in my hour of need? Who else would wrap their loving arms around me and comfort me when no one else even knew the trials and challenges I faced and endure? Who, but God--can remedy wrongs--without hatred or bigotry? When love reigns--there is no fear and where there is no fear--there is no need for hatred or bigotry. Where there is no hatred or bigotry--the land is healed and peace reigns! Hallelujah for our reigning Lord, Jesus Christ!

Reign on in the hearts of men and women and children everywhere, King Jesus!

Until We Return to The Lord, We Will Weep!

“I myself said, “ ‘How gladly would I treat you like my children and give you a pleasant land, the most beautiful inheritance of any nation.’ I thought you would call me ‘Father’ and not turn away from following me. But like a woman unfaithful to her husband, so you, Israel, have been unfaithful to me,” declares The Lord. A cry is heard on the barren heights, the weeping and pleading of the people of Israel, because they have perverted their ways and have forgotten the LORD their God. “Return, faithless people; I will cure you of backsliding.” “Yes, we will come to you, for you are the LORD our God. Jeremiah 3:19-22 NIV

In the wake of sadness because of the hatred and violence across the land, we must realize that nothing is a surprise to God. Since the days of the prophets (the true prophets), we have been warned that if we willing forsake God's ways, our crying would be heard from every corner. And here we are--crying--foul, injustice, hatred, bigotry--and souls are lost because we have turned from God.

Not all of us are guilty of perpetuating violence and hatred, but there are so many who are that the most the rest of us can is to pray--appealing to God's merciful nature--while submitting to His Ways and interceding for all who turned from Him.

I don't know of any one person who would celebrate the lives lost--through gun violence--and yet--our legislators would rather spend time and money on a witch hunt--simply to hinder a person from being elected. It would appear to me--and I'm not serving in Washington--that it would take far less time to legislate sensible gun-control, provide the financial assistance for law enforcement agencies to train personnel not to overreact in situations than it has taken investigating Hillary Clinton. And they think--all the pointless time and money spent--tax payer money--is money well spent! How sad for our country--we have elected leaders who are spending more time and money promoting their agenda than in serving the needs of the people.

Personally, I think every person who has been sitting on their thumbs, refusing to work for the people--should be removed from office and they certainly should not be paid. If anyone else--hired to do a job refused to do it--they would be fired, so it's time to fire the obstructionists legislators and hire those will work for the people--not a party.

Until we get things right with God--in our own lives, in our communities and exercise common sense (exercising Godly Wisdom) when electing officials who make decisions, we will continue to hear the cries of those weeping, and we will continue to see the violence because without God guiding us--love is swept aside so hate reigns.

There are some who think we'll be brought to our knees if Hillary wins the election and there are some who know we'll be brought to fall on our faces, prostrate--seeking God's grace and mercy if Trump wins. We have seen in the past how fearmongering results in foolishness with a president who started a war--over misinformation--and the number of lives lost because of it and the trillions of debt incurred behind it. I knew then, if Bush won the second term, we'd be praying--like never before.  I wasn't wrong, then and I'm not wrong now. We need a leader who cares about the people--all of us--regardless of our skin color, religious affiliations, ethnicity or gender--every human being in America and knows how to love--unconditionally.

Lord, forgive us and give us a heart of flesh, filled with a desire to please You and not people so love will overflow, drowning the hate and bigotry. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen!

Only Love Combats Evil!

Until we understand how important it is to love others--we will always cringe when we hear the news of another shooting--compelled by hate.

If we do not understand God's unconditional love and refuse to receive it, we are unable to love others, for we cannot give what we do not have.

Unconditional love--loves regardless of what others look like, how they think or what they do. Unconditional love does not condone sin or evil, but loves beyond it. When we know Love--for God is Love--we correct those who need correction and chastise those who need it--out of love--not hatefulness.

Parents should love their children unconditionally, but compel them to adhere to rules established to protect them and help them to become productive, responsible adults. When children are not corrected and allowed to think they should have everything they want, they become spoiled brats, prone to throwing tantrums in order to get their way. If the behavior is not corrected, they become bratty adults who throw tantrums when things don't go their way.

Husbands and wives should love each other (beyond lust)--no matter what--committed to the relationship and determined to do what is right for each other and the rest of the family.

Siblings should love one another and support each other in all things that are right and honest.
Those who love The Lord should never meet a stranger even though some strangers do not know how to love.

We should all be filled with compassion when we see injustice and sorrow in others. If we are filled with love, we are able to allow that love to overflow onto others without hatred or bigotry and certainly without fearmongering since where there is love--fear cannot dwell.

When are we--as human beings--going to figure it out? Hate is not overcome with more hate; only love can combat evil and turn things around for good.

For the sake of our children's future--and our present--please--let us learn to love--receiving God's love and allowing His love to overflow--from us to others and stop the violence!

Do You Hear Us, Lord?

How long, LORD, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save? Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and conflict abounds. Therefore the law is paralyzed, and justice never prevails. The wicked hem in the righteous, so that justice is perverted." Habakkuk 1:2-4 NIV

This first prayer by the prophet, reminds me of where some of us might feel we are today. For those of us who have been praying, relentlessly, and see nothing on the surface of things changing, we (or at least I do) tend to wonder if God is hearing us.

But then as we look at the rest of this passage and see God's response, we must also wonder if God is not doing the same thing now, as He allowed then. That is, allowing plans for massive destruction by those who hate all of God's people because God's people won't obey Him. Perhaps, now as it was then--we'll have to be held captive by truly hateful people in order for God to get our attention!

When destruction comes--we have only ourselves to blame. We deliberately exchanged the lie of the enemy for God's Truth and made the lie a priority by which men live rather than God's Truth. As since the lie--streaming from the top (our President)  flows over the people and is choking God's Truth--cutting off the oxygen supply needed for brain cells to function--we are left with mindless laws that promote and encourage living in opposition to God's Word. There is no justice with the Supreme Court Justices and all will have to stand before God and give an account of their actions. 
And since we are a nation that is not concerned with justice for all--we will be subjected to the justice exercised by the ungodly.

Therefore, at every turn, we see Believers belittled and their rights ignored for the satisfaction of the few--ungodly--who hope to pervert the entire nation so they can pacify the lusts of their flesh. When will all the ungodliness cease and people come to their senses before it's too late? Or is it already too late? With the blustering buffoonery we see campaigning to become president and the hatred and bigotry displayed against entire groups of people, what has this nation caved to doing? Our so-called political correctness has opened the door for disaster and those dastardly demons are laughing their butts off at our expense.

Lord, You have promised that the fervent, never-ending prayers of the righteous accomplish much and we are waiting--to see the fruit of our prayers yield--peace, love, and an end to violence and hatred exhibited by so many. Create in the hearts of all those who oppose You, a desire to please You and a willingness to repent of all things that are not like You. We know You hear and answer prayer and we wait to see the majestic results  so all will know--You and You alone are God!

Discplined by Love!

"For the LORD disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child. As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father?" (Hebrews 12:6,7 NLT)

I remember thinking back a little while ago about my mother's discipline. Those memories were triggered by the Adrian Peterson incident--when he used a "switch" to discipline his child. I remember having to get a switch and if I chose one that was too thin, I'd have to go back to that tree and get another one. If my mother went to get one, I would really be in trouble.

While the "whipping" hurt, it concluded in the desired effect--I didn't get into trouble very often because I did not like the sting of that switch. She did not beat me with a tree branch; she disciplined me with a method that got my attention and she did it out of love--to teach me to be obedient. That's what she had learned and it worked!

Now, to revisit history for a moment--I find it amazing that people who think whipping a child with a switch is such a crime, but no one thought much about "the slave masters beating people with a horsewhip" scarring and maiming them for life, sometimes unto death. Where was the outrage then? Adults and children were beaten at a whim and often because they simply didn't understand what was being told to them. People were starved, but expected to work the land on empty stomachs and beaten when they could no longer stand. Where is the outrage for that time in history? These beatings did not occur out of love--but to instill fear and submission, and no one was decrying this injustice.

But because a father dared to discipline his child, out of love, he has lost his source of income and is being tried as an abusive parent. Why weren't any of those people who beat slaves brought to court and tried for treating people worst than their did their animals (they fed the animals sufficiently)?

God's idea of discipline--out of love--is designed to make sure we have long life and that more abundantly. He does not "beat us down to get us into shape," but He allows us to suffer the consequences of our actions. We will reap, what we sow in life and when God allows the consequence--it is because He loves us enough to want us to learn from our mistakes.

Good parents discipline their children so they will learn to be obedient and have long life. No parent wants to see a child beaten down by life simply because they never knew discipline.

One of the reasons that our society is so out of order now--with total chaos reigning--is because the same government that allowed people to be beaten into submission, now wants to interfere with parental discipline--and children never learn discipline and often end up in jails or the morgue. I'd rather see a loving parent discipline their child and then see that child as a successful adult--knowing what it means to love enough to discipline.

I'm thanking and praising God for His love and correction and for the mother He gave me, who loved me enough to discipline me when I needed--and that has led to my being a disciplined parent and successful adult. Love--never wants to see a child go astray, but when they are undisciplined--we see the results, everyday in the media.