When To Judge?

The Goldwater Rule Psychiatrists who belong to the American Psychiatric Association are constrained in their public comments by the Goldwater rule, which guides them to speak mostly of diagnostic categories and people in general. (Psychology Today)

Recently, while watching a number of news shows discussing the "mental fitness" of Donald Trump, I was reminded of a couple of things when the news hosts, always qualified what they were saying by invoking the Goldwater Rule, as did other pundits.

Here's what struck me about people saying, "we can't diagnose without an examination and an assessment without an examination, is based upon our perceptions of the observations" (or words to that effect). They also acknowledged they were just "lay persons" having the discussion--no expertise in the matter.

Here's my issue and it's more "civil responsibilities" in jury selection. To my knowledge--very few people selected for jury duty have any expertise in the matter before them, yet they are expected to listen to attorneys arguing their points, witness testimony, judge's instructions and make a decision regarding a person's life or a company's continued existence. More often than, the people serving on a jury may or may not have a high school diploma, maybe a college degree, but most don't have medical or legal expertise in matter they're asked to judge.

If jurors are expected to render a decision in a trial situation without expertise, why can't news commentators and hosts, render a conclusion about a situation they observe up close and personal on a daily basis? This is extremely curious to me. Most of the journalists who accompany trump or are in the White House on a consistent basis, know exactly what is behavior is and whether or not--he should be deemed, "mentally fit" to be in the Oval Office. After all, none of them are psychiatrists who have to worry about being removed or humiliated by the field of psychiatry.

From my perch--usually from sitting in my recliner (arm-chair psychiatry, I guess), I observe what trump says and does on a fairly regular basis since March 2016. As an educator with a background of special education knowledge, I noticed from the beginning there was something wrong and I stated it on more than one occasion through my blogs here and on Medium. I listened to the speech pattern and knew there was a disconnect between neurotransmitters in his brain. "Through research, we know that mental disorders are brain disorders. Evidence shows that they can be related to changes in the anatomy, physiology, and chemistry of the nervous system. When the brain cannot effectively coordinate the billions of cells in the body, the results can affect many aspects of life" (The National Institute of Mental Health).

What I've observed is that his limited vocabulary, inability to clearly enunciate certain words or pronounce them correctly is a clear indication of something not functioning properly. His inability to demonstrate empathy and appropriate responses in specific situations was another indicator that a disconnect exists which is resultant of a malignant narcissistic personality disorder (again, chemical development or lack thereof in the brain). His recent bouts of forgetting where he is (documented on video on at least three different occasions) and struggling for words along with his incessant gestures while "reading a speech" speak volumes about his lack of confidence in his ability.

Now, for those who have read most of my blogs you might think I'm being nasty since I have no respect for him. I'm not being nasty, I'm simply stating my observations which have been discussed by many others. Am I offering a psychiatric opinion? No. I'm concerned that the opinions that have been offered are being ignored simply because he won't submit to a neurological examination to determine what's going on inside his brain and those psychiatrists who have offered opinions, haven't examined him.

My point to all this is--why should jurors determine the conclusion of a matter when they have no expertise when we won't allow the experts to weigh in on a situation that could be detrimental to our entire society or the world (nuclear codes access)? That seems to be an oxymoronic dichotomy that should be rectified. Will we ever see it? I don't know, but I'm going to continue to observe and write my conclusions so that if there comes a time that something horrible happens, I'll have to find a media outlet and scream about the conclusions drawn when no one else--would.

I'm standing my ground as I prepare to make a difference in our society (if we survive a nuclear attack).

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!

Don't Despair!

It shall come to pass in the day the LORD gives you rest from your sorrow, and from your fear and the hard bondage in which you were made to serve, that you will take up this proverb against the king of Babylon, and say: “How the oppressor has ceased,
The golden city ceased! The LORD has broken the staff of the wicked,
The scepter of the rulers; He who struck the people in wrath with a continual stroke,
He who ruled the nations in anger, Is persecuted and no one hinders. The whole earth is at rest and quiet; They break forth into singing. Isaiah 14:3-7 NKJV

Our day of rest is coming--rest from hearing adults act like children, rest from watching entire cities being bombed and entire populations diminished, rest from debating the merit of being religious versus being in relationship with God--rest--from all the cares of the world and we will see the world break forth into singing.

Is your song ready?

"Great is thy faithfulness, Great is they faithfulness, morning by morning new mercies I see."

"He's an awesome God."

"There is none like You."

"Worship Him."

Here's one I'll sing--and this is the first view:

Lord God Almighty,
How I adore You
How I wait--for Your Return
Lord God Almighty,
You who know all about us,
And loved us, equally
In spite of our flaws.
Lord God Almighty,
Though I may not be perfect,
I try to live Your Word
And more than anything,
Promote love as Your Laws.
Lord God Almighty,
Hear our plea
And Give Rest to The Weary,
Courage to the fainthearted,
Faith to the hopeless,
Standing Firm until the end.
Lord God Almighty,
Only You know
The Day of Your Return,
And I wait--to live with You forever!

For those who are thinking, "what's the point of continuing to live in such a crazy world," don't despair, live on any way. God has something wonderful in store for you--just for you--and He intends for it happen. Don't let the enemy influence you to become fearful of anything man can do or has done--just look to Him and know you are loved beyond measure and no matter what you have done--He is willing to forgive and keep you on the path He has established for you. Let Him into your heart and allow Him to reign and watch how blessed you will be--when you belong to Him.

Whatever is going on in your life that makes you want to stop living--remember--this is just a temporary moment--and it shall pass. Live the life that God has planned for you and give the devil notice that you will not believe his lies--you will live and praise God for His love and mercy and grace.

Why Do We Do It?

"they are not to ‘honor their father or mother’ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: “ ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.’ (Matthew 15:6-9 NIV)

Vanity Teaching seems to be the rule rather than a demonstration of a right relationship with God. What do I mean? Fasten your spiritual seat belts and get ready for a ride designed to shake up the traditions that have nothing to do with relationship with God.

Vanity Teaching--which appears to be prevalent in certain bible colleges (and I don't know why they call themselves a "bible" college) do more instruction to refute the bible than to teach its intent. American Baptist College comes to mind who promotes homosexuality with its choice of leadership, who affirm their stance in public forums--having the audience participate. How anyone in their right mind--not clouded or deceived by the enemy--could say that same-sex unions are not an affront to God is beyond me. But when we have titled leadership who are in those unions, is it any wonder there is confusion in the Body of Christ?

Today--traditionally known to many as Palm Sunday--does not really represent what happened in the Bible. The Word says, the people greeted Jesus as He entered the city waving palm branches--a symbol of victory in some cultures. If the people greeted the arrival of Jesus waving palm branches, why do most churches distribute the fronds as either part of the service or as they leave the service? Are we not supposed to have the Spirit of Christ living within us? If so, why aren't the palm fronds given as people "enter" the service? Is it because we really don't know why we do the things we do?

Next Sunday--Resurrection Sunday--is celebrated by many as Easter Sunday. The term "easter" was really an indicator of spring (with its goddess) and had no significance to the resurrection of Jesus Christ--until man made it so. What we get with "easter" celebrations are: colored eggs, bunny rabbits, and new clothes, and the parade of people who attend worship services to show off the new clothes. Really? What I've seen is people who are so engaged in straightening out clothes during the service they cannot focus on The Word--if indeed there is a Word from The Lord being expressed.
Resurrection Sunday is a time of celebration, but not with colored eggs, baskets of candy, or new clothes. In spite of the debate over when He was crucified and when He rose, we know that He did rise from the grave and now sits at the right hand of the Father. We know this--if we believe what The Bible says and have a relationship with God.

Many churches today have become clubhouses rather than places of worship. People gather to socialize, entertain, and eat in the church, disrupting attempts to teach The Word for the sake of honoring others for various reasons (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.). Is God pleased with our using the places we say are houses of worship for everything but worship? I doubt it.

Here's a thought. Why don't we spend time studying The Word and allowing Holy Spirit to teach us how we should conduct ourselves in the houses of worship. Why don't we change the traditions that negate the truth of God's Word. Why don't we seek God before we do anything that would deter the rest of the world from seeing Him in us. Why don't we have Bible Colleges that teach the Bible rather than man's philosophies. Why don't we? We need to understand why we do what we do and if we discover that what we do has nothing to do with The Word or honoring God, why do we continue to do it?

If we understand the purpose of His appearance in the person of Jesus, His crucifixion, and resurrection, and have accepted Him as Truth, repented of our sins and live to please God, we have the victory!

Fool's Delight!

"Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. The lips of fools bring them strife, and their mouths invite a beating." (Proverbs 18:2,6 NIV)

The words fool or fools is mentioned in the Bible 108 times and predominately in Proverbs--the book of Wisdom. Hmmm! Now, we know that if we lack wisdom, we can ask of God who gives it to us liberally (James 1:5), but what happens when we lack wisdom and don't realize how foolish we are are?

How many times have we seen evidence of fools through their behavior? You know, those folks who do really dumb things and think they can get away with it. There was even a show on television about "dumbest criminals" that a number of people watched, just to laugh at the foolishness.

I've often said stupid people think everyone else is just as stupid as they are. They don't realize they're incapable of having a rational thought and so they think no one else can either. A perfect example of this mentality is a young woman trying to cash a 94 million dollar income tax check. Really? Of course she was caught! No one in their right mind would attempt to cash a 94 million dollar income tax check when they walk into a bank looking like they just rolled out of bed. Seriously?

But in her mind, the foolish mind, no one would be the wiser and she'd walk away with all that money. I don't even think she had a bank account which proves her inability to have a rational thought. Fools delight in their own opinions, devoid of understanding.

I've had students who tried to turn in papers they didn't write and thought I wouldn't know. If a student can't write a grammatically correct, complete sentence in class, why would they be able to write an entire paper that is flawless, outside of class? Really? Do I have stupid written across my forehead? I think not. And when I give their papers back with comments across the top of the paper about plagiarism, they start stuttering, trying to explain how they didn't have time to do the work, so they had someone else do it for them. Uh huh! Then I tell them to re-read their syllabus which explains the consequences of plagiarized work.

And the same is true for those who run their mouths without thinking--especially in situations they do not understand. They talk and talk and talk, ignoring the warning signs from people who don't want to hear what they have to say and then, when they get in someone's face--the wrong someone--they get the beat down of their life. I'm not condoning violence, just referring to why some things happen to people. Wise people walk away from strife, fools simply continue stirring it up until it explodes on them.

If I, a mere human being, can detect foolishness and a lack of wisdom, how much more so can God detect the fools who delight in stirring up strife?

It is better to be quiet and thought a fool, than to open one's mouth and let everyone know--yep, there's a fool in the house!

I encourage all reading to consider what's being said even in a humorous light and encourage others to seek God and His wisdom before doing or saying something foolish that will result in severe consequences.

God's Awesomeness!

Man cannot even come close to creating beauty the way God does! It's just awesome!

Never Silent!

"I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest," (Isaiah 62:6 NIV)

During those ancient years when a city was built with high walls surrounding it and a tower, watchmen were assigned to keep guard over the city and when they saw danger coming (an attack by the enemy), they were to warn the residents of the city so they would prepare for battle to defend it.
When they saw the enemy coming, they were to sound an alarm--usually a loud blast from a trumpet or other horn. This assignment was important since lives could be lost and entire cities captured.

Today, there are still watchmen assigned to sound the alarm when they see coming danger of an attack by the enemy. Since there are no more "cities with high walls" per se (but the walls of hearts), the alarm must be sounded through whatever venue is available in order to save lives and to keep people from being captured and held in bondage by the enemy. The problem is--not many are listening to the watchmen who have indeed sounded the alarm--warning people of the dangers of being captured by the enemy of man--Satan--and being held bondage to sin. We, who are watchmen, observing the times and aligning them with The Word, will not be held accountable for people not listening when we speak God's Truth. If they choose to ignore us, their blood will be on their hands.

"But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people and the sword comes and takes someone's life, that person's life will be taken because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood. When I say to the wicked, ‘You wicked person, you will surely die,’ and you do not speak out to dissuade them from their ways, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood. But if you do warn the wicked person to turn from their ways and they do not do so, they will die for their sin, though you yourself will be saved."(Ezekiel 33:6,8,9 NIV--Best understood if entire chapters are read)

This is "The Word of The Lord" and woe unto to us if we do not hear and obey!

So though there may be those who would prefer seeing a "feel-good, sugar-coated" message, I am appointed to warn and I will never stay silent about God says or how He wants us to live. I love encouraging people to seek Him, love Him, obey Him, and receive all the benefits He has for us, but when I see the destruction the enemy has planned, I must also warn people not to be deceived by those trying to changing the intent of God's Word. All Believers must study The Word for themselves and understand God's intent for inspiring men to write what He wanted us to know. There are many who are hearing God, and warning people about the impending dangers of being influenced by Satan. However, not many are heeding the warning because their flesh speaks louder.

Watchmen, Watchmen--Sound The Alarm and Let it be known--Danger approaches and lives will be lost--if the warning is not heeded--change is coming and no man will able to stem the tide of devastation we will experience, if we don't turn from our wicked ways and seek The Lord to forgive us and live as He desires!

Good Works Completed!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our GPS!

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you." (Psalm 32:8 NIV)

While we wander, lost and unsure
If we seek Him, and allow Holy Spirit
Navigation--our God-Planned-Solution,
Even when we go astray, He'll nudge
Our spirits, "Hear Me and Endure"
The end is not yet, stay on the path
He is directing, arriving at the appointed position
In His timing, not our own; steering clear of the broad way,
Staying on the Narrow Path, not listening to what others say,
Renewing faith, day-by-day, hearing Him Speak
Making Hearts glad, being obedient, ensuring the devil
Being mad, at the loss of a soldier he used, abused,
But Jesus, Our Healer, Our Deliverer, Our Savior
Loved us enough to save and place us in the Army
Of The Lord, armored up, ready for battle, knowing
Victory is ours, in Jesus' name, not fighting for glory
Or fame, but to let others know, we don't have to go,
Our own way and be lost, Because Jesus paid the cost,
For you and I and whosoever will Believe
That He is and forever will be our Risen Savior,
Instructing, directing, by His Holy Spirit He knows,
The way to heaven, our mansions already built,
No more worries, pain, sadness, just joy while
We praise His Name forevermore. His love grows
And grows in our hearts so love, we'll have to share
With everyone else, whose burdens we'll bear
Until we reach the far-away shore, we'll be the light,
The beacon the world needs, shining bright, igniting
Assurance and boldness in reaching our destination,
Unscathed, wiser and ready, knowing He's our GPS!

His Return Policy!

"I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you.” (Isaiah 44:22 NIV)

Many cities have return policies on cans, plastic, and glass beverage containers. We pay a deposit on the container and when we're finished with it, we can return to a store to "redeem" the same amount paid for the deposit. For those who forget about the deposit paid on a container and discard them, there are those who diligently seek them in garbage cans everywhere and when they find "their treasure" they return the container for a deposit they did not pay.

God so loved the world that He came down to earth in the person of Jesus Christ, lived among us, preached what His Father said, knew He came to die for us, hung on a cross for our sins, and provided a means for us to return to a right relationship with The Father with His Resurrection.
He paid the price through His death--the deposit we could not pay and now we can capitalize on the Return by simply turning away from and stop doing those things that keep us from being in a right relationship with God.

Isaiah prophesied God sweeping away our offenses like the ever-moving clouds, (with the work on the cross) and now He's waiting for us to return to Him, since He has already redeemed us.

He's waiting for us to realize the treasures He has stored up for us because of His love. How long will He have to wait? For some, the deposit will never be redeemed because the desires of the flesh reign and those who love to fulfill the desires of their flesh, never hear Him speak.

The price has been paid--the deposit on our lives to enter into the gates of heaven--even though we could not pay it, He has paid it for us and all we have to do is return to God--willing to live out His purposes for our lives.

Are we ready? Or will we wait too long and He Returns for those who love Him and some will get left behind, wondering what happened?

Time is running short and the enemy knows it! This is why greed and corruption rule the land, chaos and confusion keep people unbalanced and they think they are wiser than God, not realizing they have been duped by the devil who doesn't want to burn alone in the lake of fire.

Today, we have another chance to return to Him and receive the benefit for which we never paid. Let's do it and wipe the smirk off the devil's face!

Why Faith in God? Part 6

“What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?” In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. James 2:14,17,18, 26 NIV)

If we claim to have faith, but never do anything with it. what is the point of the proclamation?

I have presented my perspective on this subject previously, but it warrants a second look.

For the person who says, "I will lose 50 pounds this year" and never changes their dietary habits or physical exercise, how are they going to lose weight? They won't and then they'll complain about being overweight.

The same is true for the person who excitedly says they're going to get a promotion on their job, but they never do anything beyond their current job requirements--they take no initiative to do anything, and sit twiddling their thumbs when they have finished doing their work.

How about the person who is confident of even getting a job because of their faith and prayer life, but they never apply for a job?

We can proclaim a lot of things, but until we actually "do" something, we bind God's hands to move us forward. Not too long ago, a person on Twitter (Bart) became upset with me and my faith in thanking God for the 1 + million plus readers that I asked for over a year ago. Those who follow me on Twitter know that I promote my books daily, I am constantly writing and uploading books as I am inspired. I have written various genres ranging from Christian Living, Christian Romance, Fantasy for kids, Contemporary Fiction, Informational texts, poetry, and a murder/mystery. Why? I have faith in God--writing is one of the gifts He has given me (teaching is the other) and I am wearing it out--to His glory, to inspire, inform, and entertain in a Godly manner.

And it is because I believe that He will do what He said He would do--I keep writing and keep thanking Him for the 1 + million plus readers. He is speaking to the hearts of people and they are reading my books. Now, when I'll actually see the 1 + million readers is on Him, not me. But I know, I it will happen--on His timeline, not mine. Thank You, Lord for hearing and answering prayer and making a way for all Your promises to be fulfilled. Hallelujah!

So, if it takes writing another fifty books before the 1 + million plus readers are reading my books, then I guess I'm going to be pretty busy for the next five years or more to accomplish the goal that is set before me. I am doing, what I have faith to believe is going to happen. That's the only way, things happen. Our actions must match our faith and when it does, God honors our faith--for we know, without faith, we cannot please Him.

Part 7 tomorrow!

Why Faith in God? Part 5

“One person's faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables.” (Romans 14:2 NIV) “For we live by faith, not by sight.” (I Corinthians 5:7 NIV) 

Notice what Paul has observed and discusses about an individual's faith. One person has enough faith to eat anything--probably because they ask God's blessing upon the food before they eat it, but another--who does not have faith to eat those foods which have supposedly been forbidden (various types of meat), they will only eat vegetables.

We are no longer under The Law with its restrictions and limitations and we know this because of what we're told in Acts regarding Peter--who staunchly attempted to hold the gentiles to Jewish Law. Remember the dream? (Acts 10) At any rate, what we learn from this is that nothing God has blessed is forbidden to us. We can eat anything--pork, beef, lamb, fish and seafood of all kinds--for nutrition, as long as we ask God to bless everything we eat. A number of people have long, drawn out blessings for food, but mine is simply, "Lord bless the food and my tummy, too." And then, I eat--my candy bar, pie, vegetables, seafood, whatever is sitting before me and know that nothing in the food will harm me and my stomach will not be upset by it. That's exercising faith. Note, I am not advocating people eat things they know that causes them an allergic reaction. Please don't mix faith with foolishness. I know I cannot eat watermelon because of my body's reaction to it, so I don't eat it. Exercise wisdom in all things.

However, for those who have not arrived as yet to exercise that kind of faith--they eat what they have faith to eat--and their  faith, works for them ("According to your faith, be it unto you."). And since so many people have delicate digestive systems, they need to eat accordingly in order not to get sick or stay sick. This is wisdom, not a lack of faith.

Now, we live by faith--not needing to see things before we believe it. We do it all the time. We have faith that our cars will start when we turn the key in the ignition, without seeing how the ignition system works. We have faith that the chair we sit on will hold us without inspecting it every time we get ready to sit. We have faith in getting paid for the work we do (if we're working) without seeing what is in the company's bank account. We have faith in the air we breathe even though we cannot see the oxygen we need to survive. We live faith all the time, not by sight, so why is it so difficult for some to have faith in God?

Some have argued that we are foolish to believe in an "invisible being" we have never seen. I disagree with this supposition. I have already mentioned the oxygen in the air we cannot see, but believe it is there. We cannot see a person's brains, but their brains are probably there. We cannot see the wind--we only see the results of the movement of the air.

Therefore, I see the results of God moving upon the hearts of people all the time and know He exists for all who believe!

Part 6 tomorrow!

And The Beat Goes On!

Today's broadcast overrun by Holy Spirit! You have to hear it to believe!
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/maryandtyrone/2015/01/29/and-the-beat-goes-on

It's Not Normal And God Said It First!

It has been said through various mediums (scientific studies, documentaries, etc.) that homosexuality is genetically determined before one is ever born. And because they were born this way, they claim their sexual orientation should be treated like any other birth defect or handicap. This theory is inconsistent with The Word of God. God never states that a birth defect or other anomaly or handicap is sin. He specifically states that the act of either men laying with men as they would a woman or women laying with women as they would men (homosexuality) is an abomination and those who practice it will not enter into heaven.

Let’s look at things another way. None of us are born gay or straight—we are born male or female (with a few exceptions pertaining to those born with both genitalia as a result of hormonal imbalances during gestational development). Babies do not lie in a hospital nursery right after they’re born with any conclusions about themselves. They are incapable of making any choices at that point. We choose what we do—and that becomes our sexual orientation—our actions which is why—some profess to be born—bi-sexual—they like having things their way—any way they can. Having an attraction towards someone of the same sex does not determine a person is gay. It is acting upon the attraction that puts one on the path of destruction and being labelled gay. Every one of us—chooses our actions.

We can be tempted to steal from a pile of money sitting in front of us for hours on end. We don’t become a thief until we actually steal some of the money. While this is a rather simplistic analogy, the premise is true for any situation. We do not become something until we act upon our desires.

And if God in His infinite wisdom, truly allowed someone to be born gay—surely, this is justification for them to become “born-again” and live the life God intended them to live, receiving all of His many benefits. This is why Jesus told Nicodemus that we must be “born again” in order to enter into heaven. (John 3:5 paraphrased).

It's Not Normal And God Said It First  available on amazon. com

http://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-Normal-Said-First-ebook/dp/B00SX3CR0W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422566801&sr=8-1&keywords=Its%27+Not+Normal%3A+And+God+Said+It+First

And The Beat Goes On!

Our episodes are archived and available 24/7, 365 days of the year. Join us, live--every Thursday at 5:00 p.m. EST. 

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/maryandtyrone/2015/01/15/and-the-beat-goes-on

Why Faith in God? Part 4

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” (Romans 10:17 NIV) “...so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God's power.” (I Corinthians 2:5 NIV) 

We have all been given a "measure" of faith by God with the admonition that we should not think more highly of ourselves than we ought (Romans 12:3 paraphrased). And because we have been given a measure of faith, we develop means and ways to exercise what we have faith in. Some only have faith in themselves and what they are capable of doing. Some put their faith in other people when they are too insecure to have faith in themselves. There are more who put their faith in things--astrology charts, Tarot cards, beads, crystals, statues, etc.--all man-made. Still more, believe and have faith in luck--which is happenstance and has nothing to do with God and they with this luck, they have faith in their ability to gamble.

Faith in God, as Paul tells us, comes from hearing the message--the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the redemptive work on the cross, and the love of God towards us all. This is the message that increases our faith in God when we are continually hearing The Word as an exercise of practicing what we believe. The more we "hear" The Word (aloud), the more our faith should increase because we are increasing knowledge and learning to operate more in faith in Him than us.

To make sure we don't understand why we should hear The Word, Paul tells us through his letter to the church at Corinth that we should not have faith in the limited wisdom of man, but in the power of God. Human wisdom, whether we want to admit it or not, is limited by our experiences and exposures. Since most of us will not experience exposure to all there is to know in the universe, we can never claim (truthfully) to know more than God. It is because of God's love for us that He inspires men to discover things through their efforts to understand the whys and hows things, He created, work.

 This is not a put-down of science--I'm totally grateful to science, but what some people don't recognize is that scientists have not "created" anything from "absolutely nothing" but have discovered how to use elements in the earth already created to arrange and rearrange their usefulness. Scientists are not God and those who truly understand their limited ability, acknowledge their success in discoveries is because of God. Thank God those scientists are listening and if they continue to listen and seek His wisdom, life should be better for us all.

The measure of faith we have been given is the foundation of faith on which we build by hearing the word. We take the little and increase it to much, giving God the glory for all we have and know, not attempting to take credit for doing anything ourselves, apart from Him.

Part 5 tomorrow

Why Faith in God? Part 3

“Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.” (Matthew 21:21 NIV) “For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” (Romans 10:10 NIV)

Notice how important it is to use "our mouths" to proclaim our faith. Jesus said, "You can say..." and Paul tells us, "With your mouth you profess your faith..." So, conversely, if we don't "say" we won't see our faith exercised or receive what we won't say. This is why it is important for us to watch those things we say. "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." We can use our tongues which are in our mouths--to speak life to our lives with our faith in God or we can speak death to our lives with negative confessions, expressing doubt. It's up to us--remember--according to our faith--it will be what we say it will be.

Understanding the power we have with our tongues and expression of our faith, why would we contribute to having no ability to do anything worthwhile for others?

We can exercise our faith in God, by saying--"No weapon formed against us shall prosper" when we get that negative report from doctors. "By His stripes, I am healed."  "There is no name above the name of Jesus," and sickness and disease have names that are covered under the blood. And then we do everything we can to live a healthy life. There is no point in saying something, just to say it, now we have something we need to do.

We don't have to be afraid of anything, so when the enemy attempts to ignite fear in us, we say "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind" and then move out in the power of His might!

We never have to accept defeat in any endeavor when we say, "I am more than a conqueror through Him who loves me," and then keep trying to accomplish whatever it is we're trying to accomplish, until we do it right.

We can have what we say, when we refuse to allow negativity to enter into our minds and we keep professing we have what it is we need, no matter what things look like. Don't allow what you see to determine what you speak! God created the world in seven days and there is nothing too hard for Him to do for those He loves and for those who complete faith is in Him!

Hallelujah, Jesus! Thanking Him for our needs being met, over and above anything we need so we will have surplus to assist others. Thanking Him for healing bodies with the same healing virtue used to heal the woman with the issue of blood. Thanking Him for protecting the vulnerable, and comforting hearts, and speaking to the hearts of those who commit evil. We may not see it the evidence, but we can rest assured that God hears us and knows everything about everything.

The one thing He will not do--is force anyone to do anything they do not want to do. So, while our faith in God is assured, we must also know that He gives free-will choice to the saved and unsaved, leaving all to the consequences of their choices.

Part 4 tomorrow!

Why Faith in God? Part 2

"Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you. And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.” (Matthew 9:29; 13: 58 NIV)

If we are like the two blind men who Jesus was speaking to, we must be believe that He is able to do what we expect Him to do.

The two blind men followed Him, begging for mercy (so they could see) and He stopped them and asked them, "Do you believe I able to do this?"

Their response was, "Yes Lord, we believe."

His response was, "According to your faith (not another person's faith, not even His), let it be done to you."

God's response to our petitions is based upon our faith, not our emotions. He knows every issue we have and He knows whether or not we have enough courage to ask for His help and enough faith to believe He will do it. When we speak, what we believe He will do, it is a demonstration of our faith.

Some of us need our spiritual eyes opened so we can see--all the good things He has in store for us, for the natural eye (the mind using man's logic), cannot see into the spirit realm to understand just how much God loves us. Now, we can speak what we need--by faith--into existence, we can also speak--a lack of faith--and never see what we ask for.

When Jesus went to His home town, the people there had heard about the miracles He performed, but when they saw Him, they were full of disbelief, saying out loud, "Isn't this carpenter's son? Who does He think He is going around trying to make people believe He's anything special." I've paraphrased their response, but it's accurate in intent.

Because of their dismay in who He was and their unbelief, not many people were healed and certainly not many miracles witnessed. Why? They spoke their lack of faith in Him! It was not His faith that needed to operate, but theirs if they wanted to see miracles.

Some people are doing the same thing today with their tongues--speaking their lack of faith--and then proclaiming that God doesn't hear or respond to prayers. It is because of their lack of faith and actually their double-mindedness that keeps change from occurring. If we say--there is no God--why do we expect Him to do anything (He doesn't exist for the naysayers, so why complain about Him). And then those same people who proclaim God doesn't exist--dare to question the faith of those who know--He exists and He is faithful to those who call upon Him, by faith and obedience and He responds to " our faith  in Him" not a lack of faith.

If we have no faith in Him and what He is able to do--don't be surprised when He does not respond to our requests.

Remember this--He responds to our faith--spoken--in support of our belief--and He will do all He said He would do in His Word. "Yes, Lord, we believe You are able to do all things well for our benefit."

Part 3 tomorrow!

Why Faith in God? Part 1

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 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.” (Hebrews 11:1,6 NIV)

Many people have hope in many things--people, things, animals, but for those of us who have hope in God, total confidence and assurance that He is and will do, our hope is not in vain. We know that without faith--the total assurance and confidence that He is and will do, we cannot possibly please Him.  If we don't please Him, why would we expect Him to do anything for us?

If a parent consistently tells a child they will do something for the child and never does it---sooner or later that child will stop believing the parent and nothing they say will matter. This is a loss of hope and confidence. But for the parent who consistently does what they say they will do--reward or punish--that child develops complete confidence in the parent--knowing they will either be rewarded or punished. If we can believe this analogy about our natural parents, why can't we believe it about God?

I have come to the conclusion that many people distrust God because they believe He has failed them in some way or another. The evidence for this conclusion is clear--when God is blamed for all the things in the world that go wrong or people feel He has not answered their prayers, they can angry with God, doubt His existence and then try to convince others that God does not care.
The answer to prayers are sometimes not evident because people "pray amiss," praying for things instead of direction and wisdom, praying for God to hurt others. When we pray, we must pray--according to The Word--believe we receive, and we shall have what we pray for. However, since God knows so much than we do, when prayers have been answered, some may not recognize it.

For instance--prayers for healing can manifest in a number of ways. A person's body can be totally healed if that is God's plan for them (because He knows the future), or healing can come in the form of death--the person suffering no longer suffers.

Sometimes, people don't recognize that if a person is destined to prolonged suffering, death really is the answer to prayer for those who understand how God works. When my mother was dying of cancer, she had lost all muscle control, could not eat or swallow. I prayed for God to take His child home and He did the very next morning. I was holding her hand when she made the transition. As much I loved my mother, I didn't want her to suffer.

When I pray, since my abilities are limited, I pray for Holy Spirit to interact with people and for hearts to be willing to hear. I pray for wisdom and guidance and when a situation is really serious, I connect with prayer warriors to be in agreement with solution. No matter how God responds, I believe He will answer every prayer.

Part 2 tomorrow

Having Authority!

"I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." (Luke 10:19 NIV)

The missionary report from the seventy-two who went out and proclaimed the Good News and healed those who were sick was good, but the Jesus reminded them--they rejoiced over the wrong thing, the submission of the demons to them at the name of Jesus. This they did when Jesus was with them. Now, as a cautionary note, Jesus went on to tell them, rejoice in the fact that their names were written in the book of life--not just in having authority over demons, while He was with them.

They had authority to trample on snakes--unaware of their existence, not by tempting the devil with foolishness--and not be harmed. He gave them authority--to overcome anything the enemy attempted to do them and promised them, nothing would harm them--this He did while He was with them.

Before He left to return to His place in heaven, he told the twelve (notice the reduction in numbers who operated with power), that greater works we would do--after He left, than they did while He was with them.

One of the reasons the Church of Jesus Christ is weakened and often thwarted by the enemy is because we think--the power is in the numbers. The power is not in how many people attend the building, but the power and authority is in the faith of the Believer--individually. Now, where two or three--faith-filled people gather, there is nothing they cannot accomplish when they do all in His name.

The power and authority we have is activated by our agreement with another faith-filled believer and being on one accord with Holy Spirit for the results. When we practice what we say we believe, we see the results of having power through Holy Spirit and know we cannot go wrong when we allow Him to lead.

If we want change in our society, change in our schools, change in our homes and change in our governments, we must practice the authority we have in Jesus' name by coming into agreement with other Believers, guided by Holy Spirit, and then sit back and watch Him work it out--for our good!

Before we can actively, consciously do anything in order to operate in His authority, we must Know The Word, Pray The Word, and Preach The Word, in season and out, whether people want to hear it or not (Paul's instructions to Timothy work for us today) and do all we do to the glory of God! That's Having authority!