Will You Hug an Addict Today?

We are his people, the sheep of his pastures. What does that statement mean to you? To me, it sounds very special. We often walk around like we don’t have any other duties in this present world. Why? Because we’ve been baptized in Jesus name and we’ve received the gift of the Holy Ghost, speaking in tongues as the spirit gave utterance. Now we are happy in Jesus, Hallelujah, we are going to heaven; we can just sit here until Jesus comes.
But…. we are not done. Now is when the ‘real’ work begins. My topic focus today is about the way some churches treat addicts, recovering and present.
I don’t think that most addicts want to actually be addicts. There is an unfortunate thing that happens when you try a drug for the first time. Especially when you have taken your eyes off Jesus and are in search of something else to fill your void or soothe the pain in your life. The reaction that follows is all about body chemistry. If your body chemistry can’t handle the mix, then you become addicted, it not, you usually walk away because the reaction your body has is so upsetting you say, “I don’t want to try that again.”
For those of us that had a body chemistry blend happen as a result of trying a drug, we become an addict to that drug. I know, I tried a drug one day, to me innocently and instantly became addicted. It was over the counter, other people take it all the time, but the chemistry reaction my body had with the drug, caused a sensation in me that made me zone out. It also put me to sleep for hours. I loved how zoned out from the world I felt. I had kept my problems at bay. Now I wanted it again, immediately because my problem was in my face all the time and I didn’t want to face it, so that drug was the way to fix it. I believe it took me about 5 years to wean myself away from that drug. I thank my God that He delivered me from this drug and my uncomfortable circumstances.
We have so many people hurt in the church-world, and they feel like they can’t turn to anyone, because no one would listen or because the spirits of judgment and ridicule bombarded them. When someone comes to you for help, its time to stop giving them that same old, oh you just need to trust in God, you are struggling because you just want to be rebellious.
Addiction usually happens as a result of a void a person feels, or something very painful that they feel helpless as a result of that pain; not just because they woke up one morning and said, gee I wish I were an addict.
In the church, we have lots of addicts: drug addicts, sexual addicts, food addicts, etc.
How do we treat addicts we know are addicts? For instance, when a saved man or woman of God becomes an addict and gets into trouble, ends up on the wrong side of the law and goes to jail. Do we visit them? Or do we say he got what he deserves. When its time for that person to get out of prison, are a band of brothers and sisters waiting at the gate so they can see the love of Jesus staring them in the face? Or do you here about their release and wonder how long it will be before they get in trouble again.
We are his people, the sheep of His pastures; we need to start representing Jesus Christ more and not our own selves. If Jesus still walked the earth, would he be at that gate when the saved prisoner was released? And if he couldn’t be there as the prisoner is released, He most certainly would be there to see Him later that day, to show Him love and let Him know that He doesn’t have to suffer alone anymore because He had his back. God would be His real friend. Can you imagine the success rate of an addict prospering if He was received as if He did nothing wrong. If the saints rallied around to welcome him home. Holding a feast for him, giving him words of encouragement. Letting him know that you will be there to encourage him. Letting him know that if he needs to talk, you are a phone call away. What a difference it would make in his or her life.
Lets stop pretending that we are perfect. Lets stop judging people when they fall. Lets start receiving a brother that has fallen and appears to want to be reunited with our God, lets treat him as we should; As a brother, in the spirit of love. Lets love on them, a lot. Will you hug and help an addict today?

Should We Have Funerals In Our Churches?

To those of you that are in bereavement at this time, please accept my sincerest condolences.
First, lets be clear again. I’m not writing to offend anyone. I’m trying to get those of us, especially brought up in the ‘Apostolic’ community to look at how we’ve been doing things, and to examine whether or not it is God’s way or whether we’ve succumb to societal customs.
I took the time to do a little research in the bible pertaining to funerals. I could not find one scripture that suggested that they bring their bodies into the temple where they worship. I’ve always read about them burying their dead, in the ground, that’s it. Now I don’t know whether they sang a hymn or prayed over the dead, but I do know, the dead weren’t brought into the temple.
We are the church, the living, soul-filled saints. The church building is our place of worship. Do you agree that this should be a sacred place? A place where all types of people can come to be healed, delivered, blessed, comforted, exalted, and most importantly, Saved.
If our churches are places to worship, why then would we bring soul-less bodies into a sacred temple where we worship the living God?
I would even dare ask, wouldn’t bringing a soul-less body into the house of God, defiling the temple?
I think it’s worth talking about. I think we have been listening to today’s society and mimicking them so long that we have forgotten to come out from among them and be separate. We are supposed to be the examples in the world: yet, we seem to follow their customs more than they follow ours.
Let’s have this conversation guys. Lets discuss whether or not we should bring soul-less bodies into the House Of God.
Now, some of you may be thinking how insensitive it would be not to recognize the dead. Well, that’s why we are taught to give honor where honor is due to those persons while they are alive. You don’t need to bring a dead body inside the House of Worship for that. DO IT NOW!!!
Do it while they can hear you and feel honored, so that when they die, we can take them to the burial ground and properly bury them without all the Hollywood-Societal Grandeur of today’s funerals.
According to the NFDA (National Funeral Directors Association), the average funeral costs from 1960-2009, went from $708 - $6560, for one person. That’s ridiculous. But it’s not about burying the dead is it? It’s about putting on a fantastic funeral show; it’s about sensationalism. It’s allowing society to dictate how much you loved your loved one by how much money you put into burying them. Let’s not keep up with society, lets bury our dead respectfully as they did in the bible days, in the ground, at the burial site, and bless them and praise God they are going to be with our Father.
It’s past time we start being an example in this world. But, that’s just my opinion. What do you think?

The Perfect Gift

The perfect gift is the gift of something that a person loves the most in this world. With that said, yesterday was my Father’s birthday and I wanted to give HIM the perfect gift. It didn’t take but a minute to remember HIS favorite thing. My Father’s favorite thing is praises. He loves being praised, so that’s what I offered to HIM on His birthday. I wanted to present it to HIM in the best package I could afford. So I took the strength of my breath and shouted out loud how wonderful He is. Father you are holy and righteous and wonderful and marvelous and I gave HIM thanks, lots of those. I had to throw in a couple bags of pure worship too. I can’t speak for Father, but I sure enjoyed giving HIM His gifts, it made me feel wonderful in just delivering it. What did you get Father for His Birthday?

This Christmas

It’s been a few days since I last blogged. I’ve heard a lot of chatter about the ‘real’ meaning of Christmas. Since Christmas falls on a Sunday this year, a lot of people have been contemplating whether to hold service on Sunday or cancel, so that their congregation can spend that day with family. After all, Christmas has always been associated in the media as the Holiday that brings families together. We all have visions of a white Christmas, or just a chilly one, where the family comes in and sit around a blazing, warm fireplace, with beautiful red and green decorations all hanging around the house, making it feel even more festive. Can’t you just envision it?
We were taught growing up that JESUS was the reason for the season. We don’t have proof as to his actual birth date, but December 25th is the date that we celebrate Jesus’ birth.
So, this Christmas, I told my kids that we should start a new tradition. I told them that we would no longer open gifts on Christmas day. In fact, I told them that if anyone gave them presents through out this season, they are allowed to open their presents as soon as they receive them. They all seemed to love that idea.
The reason, I expressed changing this worldly tradition is because of the reason for the season, His birth.
I said to my kids to imagine people giving me gifts on their birthday. They told me how ridiculous that would be. Why would I give gifts to anyone else besides the person who’s celebrating their birth? That’s the answer to the perplexing online chatter. We should not only change the gift giving on Christmas-Jesus birthday, but we should flock to the church to give HIM the ultimate seasonal gift…. that is, our praise.
Whenever one of our loved ones has a birthday, we think of giving a gift that they would love. Well, God loves praises.
So, to suggest canceling service on Sunday is Ludicrous! Take your family to church on this day and each of you give God praise. Let the sanctuary fill up with gifts of Praise, Praise and more Praise.
Going to church on Sunday, December 25th, Christmas Day would be the ultimate gift to Jesus Christ.
No birthday should be celebrated more than this Birthday.
So, this Christmas lets start a new tradition of giving to God on Christmas day, as my daughter Elysia says, “with praises to God and worshipping Him.” And in the spirit of giving, lets reach out to those less fortunate….
Exchange your gifts, enjoy your family time, just remember the ‘Real’ reason to celebrate, this Christmas.
Happy Holidays everyone!

Before Talking Get Clear Understanding

(“…and with all thy getting, get understanding.” Prov. 4:7, KJV)

Again, one of the reason’s I write this blog is to convey to the masses, the neglect that I’ve witnessed and endured in the church world that I’ve been associated with. Today I learned that portions of my blog entitled, “Who’s Minding the Store,” was misinterpreted. Lets right this misunderstanding if you will.
My blog was not about one of my sister’s; my blog was about the topic of churches that don’t make provisions for the sick, shut-in and/or the handicapped. It was that conversation or the mention of a topic that provoked my blog…. not being irritated with one of my sisters.
What irritates me is that more attention was given to which sister I was talking about, rather than embracing the weight of my message, which is don’t forget about those in need.
My blogs are also not to bring focus to one particular person. It’s about affecting a nation. Affecting a body of people: the body of Christ.
I would like to invite those of you who started to point the finger at a sister to go back and read that blog again and please see the Truth of the article.
It’s not about me, its not about a sister, its about the entire body of Jesus Christ. There should not be anyone in the body of Christ suffering need when there’s so many of us here in the earth. Let that be your memory or conclusion of that blog and not an empty suspicion.

the TROUBLE with the TRUTH

Each time a Man of God delivers a sermon to the congregation, you are assured to hear ‘amen’, and ‘go ahead Pastor’ type comments. I often notice, however, that with every sermon, there is a robust following of ‘amen’ and at other times, it settles to almost silence. I assumed that there were certain times in the sermon that the people agreed with the Pastor’s words and at other times they didn’t.
That’s the trouble with the truth. As I live and breath, I have determined that people always respond to the truth either silently or with anger. Why is that? You would think that as a C.O.G (child of God), the truth would be something welcomed as a turning point in your life to reverse a negative direction. But, that’s not what happens. We become the lioness; we pounce on the prey delivering the truth as if the message being delivered is false. The trouble with the Truth is we don’t want to accept that there is something wrong with us.
When you write a blog, you open yourself up to all types of comments. That’s understandable. But lets be clear. I don’t write to intimidate, hurt or deceive. My reason for writing this blog is to bring about awareness to the things that are going on behind the scenes in the church world that I have observed. It is sad what I have witnessed because we are supposed to be the body of Christ. I’m not saying we don’t have flaws; it’s not as simple as that. This is about recognizing that there are problems and humbling ourselves down a little to open the discussion about them, and do something to change it. The trouble with the truth is, its ugly and we don’t want to associate ‘ugly’ with any part of our lives; and we shouldn’t want to. That’s why when someone states something constructive, don’t be so quick to shoot it down, instead take it into consideration, and then make your own judgments.
We are the light of the world, or we should be: so, we should be living with a higher standard, in a manner representing Jesus Christ. Stop being so sensitive when you read things that are uncomfortable for you. If you are uncomfortable, maybe you are guilty of it. In that case, don’t get mad at the messenger, take a look at yourself and change it.
So, I will continue to bring about awareness in the church world. Some things you may concur with, some, you may not. Either way, just know that I’m speaking only the truth of ‘Trouble’.
("...and with all thy getting, get understanding. Prov.4:7, KJV)

Who's Minding the Store?

I don’t know about you, but I was a huge fan of Jerry Lewis in the late 70’s and 80’s. My favorite movie that he starred in is, “Who’s Minding the Store.” Jerry Lewis did every thing he could to be the best employee. Despite his tenacity, eagerness to do his best, he still fumbled miserably. You should check it out; it’ll have you laughing.
I got a text from one of my sisters this morning, telling me that she wouldn’t be able to help me out today. I wasn’t surprised at the news because I’d heard that the church she attends had called an all day shut-in for its members. I cannot begin to convey how heated I got inside at the thought that an entire congregation is going to be shut in for the entire day to pray, meditate, etc. I know you are thinking that a shut in for saints is something that could be beneficial for the church: I take no issue with days of shut in, be it at the church or your house. My issue is, when you are saved for service, someone should be left to actually serve.
I told someone once, with the exception of having a mobility van, I can’t think of anything else I need. That’s how it’s supposed to be. God promised to supply our every need. However, I realized, I do have one very severe lack, that is with help. When you are in need and have to go through social services, you sometimes get asked about family; do you have family in Columbia? Yes. Do they know about your needs? Yes. Are they in a position to help out financially or physically? Yes, some of them are. Then why don’t they? My answer is I don’t know.
My point is this, if you have a membership of 25 in your church, at least 5 of them should be excused from such a sacrifice of the church, to be available to minister to the needs of the remaining body of Christ; the remainder of God’s army, the wounded. It should be something that the Pastor at least should consider.
Who’s minding the store? When you have your shut-ins, and revivals, a women’s day (a joke!), and your men’s day and your special dedication services, and your 24 hr. prayer days and your women’s conferences and your men’s conferences…who’s minding the store?
Who’s actually working in the vineyard, if you’re going to church all the time? I think we are going to church too much, and not working enough. How can all this church going, and sacrifices and prayers and fasting be of any benefit to the body of Christ if only those that are able to come to church are provided for? Jesus, WE WERE SAVED, TO SERVE!!!
I stated it before, if we joined Uncle Sam’s army, we would have to serve in the capacity that the leaders felt necessary, right? What profit would it do this country if our military just walked around in uniforms and gave their allegiances to the flag and honored the presidents, and acknowledged the accomplishments of everyone that was excelling in some capacity? What good would their service be for if when they heard of a threat or war, they simply said, well it’s not a good time for our military because we are having a service to honor our President. It’s not convenient. 5 million soldiers have to be in attendance to honor our Leader! No, that’s preposterous! A good Leader would say, leave some here to protect us, but the remainder of you go and protect the weak, the one’s that can’t fight for themselves.
Hmm.
There is so much lack in the Army of the Lord. Please Pastors, Preachers, Ministers and Teachers, listen, the word of God was centuries ahead of our time, but so relevant for today when it said, “…the harvest, truly is ripe, but the laborers are few.”
I will tell you this, I will never join a church assembly that is comfortable knowing I’m suffering, laying, or dying in the street but steps over me to go to CHURCH!
WHO’S MINDING THE WOUNDED OF GOD???

Beware the First Lady, Pt. 1

Since December 9, 1989, I’ve been constantly following my husband from church to church. My husband is a musician, a pianist. At first he was hired to play for weddings only, then funerals and finally the occasional special service or banquet at churches and other venues.
After several years, a lot of the churches started to contemplate hiring their musicians to play for church services, instead of relying on the “faithful church-going musician who doesn’t need compensation, because his reward will be from God when he goes to heaven.” Laughable!
Anyway, I had become aware that no matter what church our boats docked at for the moment, there began to be this familiar verbal stench in the air, which transcended from house to house. That being…“Beware the First Lady.” The first time I got wind of this phrase, I simply dismissed it as being a character attack of sorts, either based on jealousy of the First Lady or just a habitual gossiping saint. But, as I begin to ease myself into my new surroundings, I realized that it wasn’t just that one member, it began to resonate from several members.
I don’t remember the first year it happened, but I never took it literally. I just listened and was careful not to comment because I was the new kid on the block and the last thing I needed was to become the new gossiping kid on the block. Furthermore, from childhood, I am one of those kids, so to speak, that really did learn to be seen and not heard. I don’t like altercation, so I stayed in the background, no matter which church I attended. It was sort of a safety mechanism of sorts, after having been falsely accused often growing up in the church.
Now, back to the subject of first lady. The one thing that baffled me about the different ‘first ladies’ that I have come in contact with is, why they became such demanding, spoiled diva’s in the first place. Did they think that because of this new role, they have the right to be demanding? Did they think that we are all suppose to abide to their tantrums and reveling? That’s exactly what I witnessed. I didn’t witness a humbled servant, partnering with the Pastor’s vision. No, I saw seemingly position hungry women who wanted to control, manipulate and even frighten the congregation into subjection. Possibly knowing or believing all the while, that no one will have the audacity to challenge her authority because she is, ‘First Lady.’
I was told once, “…don’t ever cross the first lady because she could be your best friend or your worst enemy.” I think that is a very horrible reputation to have as a first lady. Don’t you?
Ok, enough of this; my objective in writing this piece is just to maybe provoke some thought in the heart of the ‘First Lady.’ Listen, just because you have this position of leadership, don’t forget that you are a servant to the people, the members, the congregation. To me, it is your role to help your husband grow a successful, fruitful and happy ministry. I’ve seen so many Pastors state in the church that he doesn’t know why his ministry isn’t growing as it should. He’s delivering the word of God, but his ministry isn’t as fruitful as he would like it to be.
I sit in my seat sometimes screaming within myself, as if trying to telepathically relay the message to the Pastor; “why don’t you try examining the woman in your house!” I wonder do Pastors ever consider that it could be the wife who is hindering the ministry. It might be worth looking into. I’ll pause here. I have so much to say on the subject, it would probably take a week to convey it all. In closing, I would like to say that I harbor no resentment against any First Lady I’ve come in contact with. I’m simply the musician’s wife that just happened to get more than an earful on all things church related; most of the time the subject was, “Beware the First Lady.”

A Prayer for Jay

To God Be the Glory! I know I’m not the only one that was saddened to hear about the medical problems of Brother James Dewees last week. But, God is Good. My son was a little saddened as well. He’s never met Jay, but he hears his music. Jay’s first CD is my pick-me-up and meditation music. I pray that God’s perfect will be done in Jay’s life. That’s all we should pray for really. You see, I’ve heard many people want to pray for different things when it comes to someone else’s situation: but, what you pray for, may not be God’s perfect will. Thus, praying for HIS perfect will is all that is needed to pray.

Why Pray?

My brother in law Calvin gave my husband and I a book a little over 10 years ago, I think it was called ‘The Essence of Praise.” I don’t know where it is today. I found it so interesting; I think I read it in a couple of hours. In the book, the author talked about his prayer life. He told the story about how he would pray the same time every day; he would pray the same prayer out loud. One day, his wife interrupted him, and asked him if he got anything out of his prayers. She made the point that, if you go down in prayer and come up the same way, what was the point. Prayer should be a connection with God, of whom you are praying to. But, if you don’t gain anything or feel any better coming up as you did going down, then what was the point?
So one day, this man decided to get on his knees and just shout the highest praise, ‘Hallelujah’, over and over again. He said he began to get tired and yawn. Nothing happened. Soon he began to get angry because nothing was happening...........eventually, when he really got fed up, he said he wouldn’t get up, until God anointed him or until he got his connection with God. That’s when he had a break through. The Lord met him, when he gave up trying himself and just surrendered to God, he then lost himself in the worship of ‘Hallelujah’ until God took over his tongue and he began to ‘speak in tongues.’ When he finally got up from prayer this time, he felt different, happier, and I guess what you would describe as a very peaceful calm.
From then on, he began his time with God, worshipping. Now, he actually looks forward to this time even more.
That’s how time with God should be. We should always expect a connection.
The day I spoke in tongues for the first time was the happiest day in my life. The second happiest day in my life wasn’t until my son Jeffrey was born. Then Elysia and then Kenya.
Now, I have a happiest time in my life, quite often. It’s when I connect with God. I love prayer time, because I get to release all my burdens, and not through words but through worship.
I’ve learned that when you go before our Father, praising Him and thanking Him, instead of asking for things, you rise up refreshed and invigorated.
That book helped me develop a healthy prayer life. I was one of those people that prayed to ask for things.
Now, I pray to connect with God. Its what my kids call ‘mommy and me time’. It’s my time with my Father!
Have a great day everyone, and don’t forget to Pray-ise!!!

The Will of God...Thank You Hezekiah

"We must Accept, what God allows, and we must never try to tell Him how, to order our lives; He has a plan in mind. His will is Good, and its Acceptable, and its Perfect. To all my brother's and sisters in Christ, I bid you good day, and hang in there. Just know, He has a plan in mind: it really is the will of God.

"How's It Gonna Be, When You Don't Know Me Any More?"

How will it be, when God say’s I never knew you? Have you ever thought about that? You’ve been a faithful member at church. You sang on the choir and paid your tithes. You are the one they all count on to go out and participate in the outreach ministries. (The one’s everyone have time for, once or twice a year.)
But, our life living wasn’t up to par, as they say.
I have become increasingly aware that a lot of us, not only live from paycheck to paycheck, but we live from moment to moment, building and living our lives just like the rest of the world. We plan our days and live our moments as if we are going to be here forever.
I have no problem with people who plan; I have no problem with people having schedules.
My concern is not-planning to work in the God’s vineyard, his army. My concern is the lack that some of God’s people are enduring in the church, because there are not enough of HIS people working. There shouldn’t be any lack in the ‘Church’: not when God has so many soldiers.
I can’t tell the difference anymore between the Godly and Un-Godly. Just wearing a skirt doesn’t distinguish anymore, not that it ever did.
Both groups go to church and participate in church activities. Both groups participate in the outreach ministries.
We go to clubs that have no Christian affiliation. We listen to music and watch TV shows that is suggestive of sin or sinful nature.
We follow social media and spend so much time doing it; time that we could be devoting to God or a ministry.
I’m not suggesting that we shouldn’t use Facebook, I’m suggesting that instead of 5 hours on Facebook, why not decrease it to 2 and give the other three to Ministry. Calling someone to spread the Love of God, going to visit someone that’s sick or shut in. What about spending hours on our knees crying out before God for those that are lost, for the world, for our families.
I was under the impression that we are suppose to be working, ‘….while it is day.’
I know I, for one, am in desperate need of day-to-day help. But, what does it say about the church world, when I and so many other people are in desperate need of various kinds of help, but going without?
We are talking about GOD’S ARMY!!!
How dare we take so much time to Play! There’s so much work to be done, and yet, because of the lack a lot of people have in their lives from needed service, it makes you wonder, who’s working in God’s army?
You very rarely mistake a soldier in Uncle Sam’s Army from a civilian. I know a lot of women in the Army. When you see them, they walk with more confidence than most women. They very rarely seem lazy. They aren’t often seen looking frazzled. They mostly are full of energy, and they are the one’s you always see working at something.
I think our FATHER, OUR ‘DI’ (Drill Instructor), would love it, if our characteristics were representative of a real soldier. In addition to displaying the characteristics of a good soldier, we should also display good Works.
Maybe we should take this day to contemplate if we are working for God at all. Are we fulfilling the works that God desired of us?
There is so much more that need to be done than getting baptized and tarrying for the Holy Ghost.
It’s time for all of us to work…………certainly me; because, I never want to here, “…I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:23, KJV)

I ALMOST CRIED ON THANKSGIVING DAY

I almost cried on Thanksgiving Day, because I had to spend it alone. I thought of my kids being with my family, and my home was filled with void.
I almost cried on Thanksgiving Day, contemplating how I could be surrounded by family, but not one to physically touch; I’m a distant memory, I’m a ghost, I’m a gesture, I’m a hunch.
How dare you stand a few feet from me, you who I call family, eating and drinking and making merriment, while I wait for the patter of my little feet; the feet I birthed into this world; the one’s that you host so sweet; but, how could you possibly smile in their face, and not think or give regard to me. Home alone for hours all day awaiting their return, you call yourself my family, but you forget about me every year as if you don’t know my name. Is it like a memory loss, or a conscious disregard? Would it be so difficult to include me? Would it be stressful, would it be hard?
I almost cried on Thanksgiving Day, but then, I remembered why, we celebrate this day; it’s not about them, or you or I. Its to recognize how good God is, and how thankful we should be you see; the world may need this holiday, but I don’t because I thank HIM daily.

I almost cried on Thanksgiving Day………..but I DIDN’T!
Thank You Lord for One More Day.

The 'WORD' for the Day

1 Corinthians 15:58 (King James Version)
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

"THANKSGIVING"

In his first sermon, the late Elder George Ladson, Jr. urged the congregation to begin each morning with, "Thank you Lord for one more Day". I believe I was around 16 when he first preached that sermon; it has become a part of my everyday life since hearing it. With the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday quickly approaching, I thought, what better way to kick off this season of thanks than to make 'Thanksgiving' an everyday habit. "Thank You Jesus for One More Day."

Rest in Peace Elder Ladson!

The WORD for the day......Love.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8
King James Version (KJV)

4) Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

5)Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

6)Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

7)Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

8)Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

My Father, My God

I have a cousin that I talk to once in a while. What I love about our conversations is that we both bring so much to the table of interest, its never boring. Last week, he said something to me that totally was amazing and profound. It’s what Oprah would call an ‘Ah-Ha’ moment.

We were talking about trusting in God: about how natural trusting in God should be. What was compelling is the analogy he used. He asked me if when I was younger, living under my father’s roof, was I ever concerned about provisions being met for me? I said no. He asked me why not? I said, because he was my father and that’s what father’s are suppose to do, provide for them; so, I didn’t wander if we would have a place to live or food to eat, because my father’s job is to provide. Now, also considering that my father is an Alcoholic, and has been in and out of recovery all my life. (Right now he’s fallen off the wagon again, so please pray God’s perfect will be done in his life.)

Anyway, my cousin made the point to me, so you could trust your natural father without doubt, even though he had his issues, but you can’t trust the ‘Almighty God’, our Heavenly Father, the Creator of the World, not just you and me. Do you mean you trust your natural father more than God, your Heavenly Father, who left word that promised to supply all your needs?

I laughed. At first, I said, “OOH, That stings.” It was an I-opener for me.
When we say we trust God, it should be…………………..instinct, second nature. It should be like my typing this message right now. This wonderful typing teacher named, Mrs. Lovett from Alcorn Middle School, taught me how to type. (Shout out to Alcorn) Mrs. Lovett taught me to type so well, that I don’t have to look at the keys, I instinctively touch the keys I need to form my words.

That’s exactly how trusting in the Almighty God, Our Father should be: ‘Instinct’.

HAVE A BLESSED DAY!!!

Michael Jackson's, Man In the Mirror

I woke up about 4:30 a.m. this morning with Michael Jackson’s song, ‘Man In the Mirror’ just ringing in my ear. I got up to go to AZ Lyrics to download the words. I believe the message I’m suppose to convey today is in the lyrics to this song. Throughout the challenges I’ve endured in my body, there’s one thing that’s been intriguing me the most and that is, if I’m suffering this much and going without sufficient help every week, then what’s happening to those that are worst off than me?

Now this is just to target some of the church community. We are going about on our jobs and going to church, sometimes out of town, while there are members in your church struggling. You would rather travel 100 mile’s away to a church, give them an offering of $500 to represent your church and make you look good. But what about the faithful members in your church that are asking for help, that $500 could have gone to help them. Don’t you know that if you take care of your family, that’ll make the bond at home stronger? Therefore growing your family at home so you can leave some at home to minister and some can travel to represent. Some people wonder why they keep losing members, one reason is because you have faithful members there for years and when tragedy strikes in their family, the church that they attend (not God’s church) is not there for them. I’m done. Please take a minute and read through some of the lyrics to Michael Jackson’s, ‘Man in the Mirror.’ Have a blessed day.

Man In the Mirror: I’m gonna make a change, for once in my life, its gonna feel real good, gonna make a difference, gonna make it right. As I turn up the collar on my favorite winter coat, this wind is blowin my mind, I see the kids in the street with not enough to eat. Who am I, to be blind? Pretending not to see their needs. A summer’s disregard, a broken bottle top and a one man’s soul they follow each other on. The wind ya know, ‘cause they got nowhere to go, that’s why I want you to know…
I’m starting with the man in the mirror, I’m asking him to change his ways, and no message could have been any clearer, if you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself, and then make a change.
I’ve been a victim of a selfish kind of love, its time that I realize that there are some with no home, not a nickel to loan. Could it be really me, pretending that they’re not alone? A willow deeply scarred, somebody’s broken heart. And a washed-out dream they follow the pattern of the wind, ya see. Cause they got no place to be.
That’s why I’m starting with the man in the mirror……….

There’s so much lack in the church world, in the world, what are we doing about it. What will you do?
What will I do?

BEGGARS CAN'T BE CHOOSERS

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard that statement over the past 5 years. Apparently, when you are handicapped and/or need help, you are not allowed to convey to those who come to help you your preferences. If you do, you are then labeled ungrateful, unthankful, difficult, and too demanding.
SHAME ON YOU! How dare you say to any person in need, “beggars can’t be choosers?”
I am so glad that I’m saved!!!
I had to put that in there just now because I wanted to say something else.

I never thought that the day would ever come when I would say that I am handicapped, but I am. However, I also never thought the day would come that if I were handicapped, I would be treated like useless matter.

What’s wrong with saying, you know I prefer that you wash the clothes and let the first load dry almost completely before washing another load. That way, the other load sitting in the washer won’t lose its freshness. That’s not such a tall order considering my washer and dryer is about 20 years old and still kicking, but, it’s kicking slowly. It usually takes 3 runs in the dryer before a full load is finished. So, if you put another load to wash in the washing machine at the start of the 3rd drying load, then both the 3rd drying load and the wash will end about the same time. Is that such a demanding request?

Also, when you come to help someone and they ask you to please wash your hands before you fix food for the family, and to wash your hands before unloading the clean dishes from the dishwasher, what’s the problem? Why must one be labeled an obsessive-compulsive person?

I’ll answer all of those questions with this profound statement, “THEY DON’T WON’T TO BE THERE.”

When you go to help someone, handicapped or whatever the case may be, if you don’t want to help them ‘WHOLE-HEARTEDLY’, then do us all a favor and don’t come.

I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve gone to retrieve a cup or dish from the cupboard after my help has left, and couldn’t find it. Why, because when someone does not render the service of help with a whole heart, then they don’t give good service, period. Whether something should go here or there is irrelevant. When you put up someone’s dishes and you don’t care about putting that plastic cup in a cupboard filled with glasses, its just like saying to the recipient, you are not important enough to me for the correct placement of your dishes to matter. It should matter. It should.

We ask for help because we need the help, but, if you don’t want to serve as a proud soldier would, then don’t.

THINK ABOUT IT!!!!

B3 Blessing - God's Stimulus Package - VKMI.org

Now this is truly how we should celebrate each other. This is how God's true family should be. May God bless you richly in everything girl, according to HIS perfect will. In Jesus Name. Amen!

The Sunday Morning Worship Experience

I’ve been to many churches in my lifetime. There are two things that irritate me the most: that is, the Offering part of the service and the Pastor’s excessive personal ramblings. I mean no disrespect.
Now, first to the sensitive people out there, I don’t have a problem with giving offering, I just have a problem with the actual part of a church service.
You see, when we go to church, I think that it should be to worship God and to hear the word of God. Although offering is a service in itself, I don’t think it should be a part of Sunday Morning Service. Think of all the people that will be visiting for the day. They’ve all had a bad week and want to just escape to the church for those moments of relief and just to be uplifted.
So they walk into the place of worship and hear the choir singing and suddenly that burden began to be lifted and the spirit is flowing and you can feel it. Then the conductor says, we want to continue this worship but we have to stop and get ready for the word of God. The conductor then invites us all in the state of giving where he or she in most cases today (even though women should not be leading services, my belief’s and I stand by them). Anyway, they sometimes sing a ridiculous offering song or just introduce the Pastor who then reminds us why we give our tithes and offering.
It takes so long sometimes, depending on the church and it’s not necessary. Then, there’s a parade around the offering table like we’re at some fashion show where everyone walks around and present their monies…………..Then, there’s the churches that actually have deacons that count the monies right in front of everyone, and we just sit there, until the Pastor begs for more money, because he has a quota for the day.
My God, my God, it’s taking so much away from the service.
Listen people, all this time, we could have continued in worship or the Pastor could be up preaching by now.
It’s time for us to reconsider the order of service, don’t you think? Well, I think so. I believe that you should have your ushers hand out the envelope, have an insert in the programs that say we deposit our tithes and offering in our designated tithes and offering box at the end of service as you are leaving out. You could even have an usher stand by the box to remind people to deposit tithes and offering there as they are exiting the church. Who says it must be apart of the Sunday Morning Worship experience?

The other thing that annoys me about Sunday Morning service is the announcements and acknowledgements. Come on guys, this can be done on a more appropriate night or because of social media, make a big fancy flyer to send to everyone by email announcing these accomplishments and announcements.

Have you ever considered how much time is wasted in church listening to the Pastor go on and on about his travels and his interests; sometimes, I look at the faces of the visitors to see what expressions they have. Mostly, you see irritation on their faces, or just a bored stare.

These acknowledgements and rewards and flattery, please leave that for some type of appreciation night: giving a shout out to this sister and this brother and this mother and how about Sis. Toochacoot got another degree. Please, why can’t we send an email in a church newsletter acknowledging every one that needs acknowledgement? Also in the paper include birthdays and anniversaries and bible readings and of course announcements. It takes so much away from service. Doesn’t anyone get that?

On Sunday mornings, when visitors and saints, mind you, come to church, we want to be encouraged, uplifted, we want to feel blessed by the service.
I think it puts a damper on what the spirit can accomplish in a service when there are so many formalities allowed.
I would love to see the day when we walk into service and there is just worship and the word of God.
All of these other things can be avoided in service; and I dare say, need to be.

I’m just saying!!!

Psalms 3 with a Byron Cage Twist

A PRAISE TO GOD
Lord how are they increased that trouble me! Many there be that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, there's no hope for him in God. But thou, O Lord, are a shield for me; my glory, you lift my head. But thou, O Lord, are a shield for me; my glory, the Lifter up of my head.

I cried to the Lord with my voice, and He heard me out of His holy hill. I laid me down and I slept, I awaked for the Lord sustained me. But thou, O Lord, are a shield for me; my glory, you lift my head. But thou, O Lord, are a shield for me; my glory, the Lifter up of my head.

I will not be afraid of ten thousand of people, that set themselves against me round about; but thou, Oh Lord, are a shield for me, My Glory, You're the Lifter Up of my head.

Thank You God For Lifting My Head.

I’ve been on this spiritual journey for a long time. I finally spoke to God, our Father and asked HIM for something unusual. As I live my life, I can sense that these trials and tribulations are just tests to train me for what’s coming next.

One of the things that has me perplexed of late, is why did God give us the HOLYGHOST? We all know what we’ve been taught in the past about having power to withstand the wickedness of the enemy. But, is that why we need ‘All Power’ of the Almighty God?

You see, I’m exploring what else could we possibly need the Holy Ghost for. My husband provoked a thought in me many years ago. He asked me, “If God was to take the Holy Ghost out of the world, would you miss it? Are you utilizing the Holy Ghost in a manner that it would really be missed in your life?

I’m telling you, I have been so provoked by that question. So I spoke with our Father about it. What if, in this present world, there is going to be something overwhelming, astounding, astonishing; something that would leave the world flabbergasted to happen, that will demand the Power of the Almighty God to diffuse the event. Then, I would understand the need for us to have such a great POWER. But to have that Great Power just to help us live right or to speak in tongues, well let’s just leave it as, I wonder.

So, if there is a possibility of such an occurrence before God comes back for us, shouldn’t we be………………..training?

Hmm, I don’t know how to intelligently ask that question other than that, but it is worth asking, don’t you think?

Think about it.

A Cry for Help

I had a scare a couple of nights ago with my daughter, Elysia. As a child I suffered severe nosebleeds. Paper towels didn’t work; I would soak large body towels full of blood. Unfortunately, my kids have been having a few nosebleeds of their own. Elysia’s nosebleed normally would not alarm me, I’m a closet doctor, and I love the ministry of medicine. But, on this particular night, I could tell that the flow of the blood was more assertive than I was comfortable with. Since I live alone and am handicap, I knew I needed to make a move quickly, especially before my extended family goes to bed. I reached out to my brother to get him to assist my son in getting my scooter in the van. I don’t have a mobility van, so my 8-year-old son has to try and get a 250 lb. Scooter in a regular mini van by himself. On this night, my son was nervous because he’d never seen blood rush out of someone’s nose that fast before. Anyway, my brother came to help us get the scooter in. My sister Vicki, who is mostly there for me, met us at the Emergency Room. We ended up being there for almost 4 hours. They managed to stop the bleeding; however, there was a stubborn blood vessel that wouldn’t close I guess you could say. They ended up cauterizing her nose; I guess in laymen’s terms, it’s the equivalent of applying a sealant to a hole. I need everyone who views this page to look around, listen in on conversations and help me find a mobility van. I’m going to keep on looking and asking so I can find one. I don’t want this burden on my 8-year-old son.

The Feelings of a Child

My 7-year-old daughter Elysia was having a conversation with my 8 year old
son Jeffrey about how she misses her father living with her, especially at night.
She wants Him to be there in the morning as well as at night. “Is Daddy
coming home tonight mom?” I said, no Lisa Daddy doesn’t live here
anymore. There was more Conversation, but what made it really sad for me,
is when my son said, “Mommy, if Dad doesn’t come back to live with us, I’m
going to feel like I’m split in two.” I felt so sad for him. I told him that we all have to continue to pray for his dad, that God will change his heart. God has blessed him with a talent that is ‘Heavenly’ and the enemy wants to take it all away. The enemy is out to destroy the home first; we must continue to pray daily and let God fight the battles. Their father says that he hasn’t left them because he still participates in their life and comes to see them and he still pays the bills; so, that’s enough. It’s enough for him, apparently, but not for his kids.
Please invite your male brother, cousin, or friend to read this and know,
even if you still see your kids regularly and buy them things, its no substitute for

being there, none at all.

The 'WORD' for the day

Romans 15:1 (KJV)

"We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Rick and Dad

३ Miracles

I don't know how it is for most mothers, but for me, this time of night is always an emotional time for me. My children's bedtime schedule is 8:00 p.m. Before I lay down, after cleaning a few things, I go and peak in on their faces. All sorts of emotions race through my head. First, I thank my God that he has allowed me to care for HIS kids at this time in my life. I always keep that in mind. These are God's kids. We should train them up in HIS way, because that's what HE tells us to do. We need to stop putting our own thoughts and ideas into the psyche of our kids and remember that they are the products of our HEAVENLY FATHER. I wonder if I was a good mother today, if I could have given them more hugs and kisses, did I fuss too much today? Did they feel my love for them? I just love my kids. I thank my God for trusting them with me. To God be the Glory!!!!!!

The 'WORD' for the day.

My niece Keneisha sent me a message this morning. In her message she included this word that I want everyone that views my blog today to see.

"But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you." I Peter 5:10
AMEN!!!!!!

Sunday night thoughts

Have you ever attended a church for a couple of years and then for whatever reason you stop going as much? No one calls to check on you to see how you are doing, but they ask your husband; then, when you return to church, they all go, "oh, I miss you so much sister." I don't believe any of them for two reasons; one if you miss someone you find out what happened to them, you call and two, if you miss someone you ask whats been going on, is everything OK. Even if I decide not to give you any information, at least you make the effort to inquire. I attended this church before and the Pastor accidentally called me thinking he was calling someone else, twice and not one time asked me how I was doing. What's going on with the people of God. How can we go on from day to day and not care about each other. We are so busy getting our degree's (that's right I said it) and keeping up appearances from church to church that we forget to just care for each other. Church seems more like a day at the office; everyone smile at each other, but the only reason they are there is to collect a paycheck and then they are off to their own lives. Church shouldn't be like that, we should be more personal, we should be as close or more so than our immediate families. Then again, maybe it just depends on the church. Now, because so many people are sensitive to people being openly verbal about anything, I'm not knocking people going back to school at all, I think its wonderful, absolutely, but when are we going to be the helpers one of another that God requires us to be. You can't help someone when you are not available to them. Also, because of the computerized age we are in now, most people have become to lazy to make it personal. We text like we don't have mouths. I'm just saying.............

I AM A COG

I love this abbreviation, a COG, which means a 'Child of God'. There are many times when you are out in the world and you are asked, what's your religious affiliation? Well from now on, I'm just going to say that I am a COG! All of these religious titles, Baptist, Presbyterian, Methodist, Pentecostal, and even Apostolic, are just man made words. They mean absolutely nothing if you still don't recognize and carry yourself as a child of God. What's the point in titles anyway. I AM A COG! Are you???