Brand new week, Brand new attitude

Shake It Off

2020-03-22T10:53:00.001-05:00

Good morning and Happy Sunday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we continue in the year of 2020 Perfect Vision based on the following scriptures Genesis 15:1, Habakkuk 2:1-3 and Acts 26:15-18,on this the 82nd day of the year, the state of Illinois has locked down the state due to coronavirus. For a person like myself this is altering my lifestyle and I have had to make adjustments. For one now that there has been shutdown I still have to work my overnight job but instead of being 2 miles away I know have to travel all the way back home to begin my other job. The people who I would usually interact with my nighttime job especially between 5am and 8am are not there for me to tell thing motivational things to make them feel good about themselves. And finally I cannot see my lady friend due to the health conditions that she already had and makes her high risk for the virus. I could go crazy but instead I am gonna Shake It Off!!!

As I begin this teaching let me define the word shake and it means as follows; to move something, to flourish and to grasp. For many of us there was not preparation for this type of emergency so we find

ourselves not in the position to move anything. There seems to no opportunity to flourish and the ability to grasp anything seems to be impossible. But please don;t worry, just Shake It Off!!!

As we go to the Word of God for this teaching of Shake It Off I go to Acts 13:49. In this scripture it shows that Paul and Barnabas they were able to move something by spreading the Word of God in

Antioch. There are so many people who are in some kind of trouble and do not know God and what he can do. Let's encourage them during these hard times and tell them God has them. Shake It Off!!

As we continue to in the Word of God we go to Acts 13:50. In this verse it shows that some important people have begun to get mad at Paul and Barnbas by saying their teachings are not true and therefore

they are not going to be able to continue to have the Word of God flourish. There are going to be some that will challenge you and attempt to shut you down but you must be strong and Shake It Off!

As we come to end of the biblical portion of this teaching I go to Acts 13:51-52. After being expelled by the prominent folk Paul and Barnabas shook the dust off and celebrated as the Holy Spirit came

over them and they began to grasp the importance of the work that they were doing. In these times there is going to a lot of blame placed on God but we must not let that happen. We must Shake It Off!

As I come to the conclusion this emergency is the perfect time to for the people of God to move something. Maybe you had wanted to open your own business and were scared. Now is the time to move on that business plan. What about the people who had dreams of writing a song, doing a play or movie? Now is the time to put in the work to make it flourish. There are people who are still able to bring home a paycheck and they need to grasp how good God has been to them. In 2nd Samuel Joab and Abishai were outnumbered but in chapter 10:12 he says Be of good courage and let us be strong for our people and for the cities of our God. And may the LORD do what is good in his sight". I may be inconvenienced but I must continue to move something, flourish and grasp. In other words I must Shake it Off!!! May God continue to watch over everyone and may we all come out of the crisis that much better..

(All my) Might, Heart and Soul

2020-02-25T10:57:00.002-06:00

Good morning and Happy Tuesday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future unlimited. As we come into the final week of the second month of the year of Perfect Vision based on Genesis 15:1, Habakkuk 2:1-3 and Acts 26:15-18, now that I have my Masters in Human Resources I want for things in my life to change with one of the first being finding a job in this area. So each day I try with all of my might to see if the added skills I now have are a fit for the many organizations that are located in Chicago. I give it all of my heart for I know what I bring to the table as far as work ethic and skill set. And as I look I put my soul into it as I know that one day my goal will be realized. As a man of God there is so much more that I can do to advance the kingdom than what I am doing and if I had not before now is the time to make that a priority and give (All my) Might, Heart and Soul to bring others to kingdom of God.

As we begin this teaching let me define the words, might, heart and soul. In looking in dictionary.com the word might means as follows; the power to accomplish. The word heart means as follows,;

courage and enthusiasm. The word soul mean as follows; an inspirer of some movement. As a man of God I need to the power to accomplish, display courage and enthusiasm about God, and insiper others to seek the Kingdom of God. This teaching will be coming from 2nd Kings 23:25.

In coming into the Word of God I go 2nd Kings 23:25 which speaks about King Josiah. In looking at his verse it culminates with all of the great things that Josiah did such as taking down the high places,

illegal places used for worshiping God and other gods. So others saw Josiah as loving God as he accomplished things to advance the Kingdom of God when there had to be resistance. As a man of God I have to attempt with All My might to bring others to know him.

As we continue with this teaching of (All my) Might, Heart and Soul I return 2nd Kings 23:25 and as we go further into we see where King Josiah loved God with all of his heart. King Josiah display courage and enthusiasm for God in the face of many who did not want change. As a man of God of today I have to display courage and enthusiasm as well to advance the Kingdom of God.

In coming to the end of the Biblical portion of this teaching I go again to 2nd Kings 23:25. The last part that Josiah committed to God was that he loved God with all his soul as was not like his

father Manasseh. There was no King like Josiah who loved God more than any other kings. As man of God I have to be an inspirer to people my age and even younger generations so that others can have access to the kingdom of God. (All my) Might Heart and Soul.

In conclusion Josiah was able to do things, be a change agent for the times that he was living in. If you continue to read of his works he restored worship, he made the people feel safe and important and he placed God first. As a man of God and as a people of God it is our job to be the change agents of today. I have to know that God gives me the power to accomplish things like being more tolerant and helpful to the homeless. I have to display courage and enthusiasm to let younger people know about how great God is. And I have to continue to be an inspier to those in my life that are despondent or not doing well. In doing this I can show God that I love him with (All my) Might, Heart and Soul. I give God all the honor and glory for this teaching. See you next month.

Impeached

2020-02-11T12:58:00.001-06:00

Good morning and Happy Tuesday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we begin this week. The interest in the church of today is waning. In looking at some of the studies done there are many who do not even want to be part of any religion. "The United States has seen a surge in people who claim no adherence to a religion, who are often called nones"Pullman (2019). As I went to the home-going services for my grandmother and after a long tiresome trip on the Megabus I was excited to see my Dad and Mom, especially my Mom who's Mother had just passed. After my son picked me up at the bus station and I entered my parents house I saw my dad, a family member and a friend of the family, the friend of the family proceeded to accuse me and my generation as being the reason that the church of today has failed. My generation has been Impeached.

As we begin this teaching let me define the word impeach. In defining the word Impeach I go to dictionary.com. Impeach means as follows; to bring an accusation against, to call into question,

to challenge the credibility of. My generation has had an accusation brought against it that calls into question our commitment to advancing the Kingdom of God and to some we have a lack of credibility. The next three sections will look at the Word of God for this teaching of Impeached.

As I begin this teaching of Impeached I go to the Word of God and to Deuteronomy 32:51-52. In these verses it tells of Moses as faithful of a servant of God as there was, has an accusation that will

prevent him from getting to the promise land. I cannot speak for my entire generation but I was made to go to church all of my younger years and when I old enough to make my own decisions I wanted to be free of that. But for some that would be reasons for me and my generation to be impeached.

As we continue this teaching of Impeached I go back to the Word of God and to 1st Kings 1-6. These verses shows that even Solomon, whom God gave riches and wisdom in abundance to, in his older

years, dies doing evil in the sight of the Lord. For many of my generation we have been called into question about the lifestyles that we chose to live after we were able to leave our mandatory requirements after we left our parents house. Impeached.

In coming to the conclusion of this teaching of Impeached I go to the Word of God one last time and to John 18:25-27. In these verses Peter who had been down with Christ since day one lack cred when

when he said he did not know Christ. For most of my generation being a man or woman of God lack credibility in the eyes of the streets we wanted to be a part of so bad because life looked better. Impeached.

As we come to the end of this teaching it could be that my generation has failed the church. There are many of us who have been accused of doing that. There were things that we may not have liked such as being made to go to church, being sheltered about things such as sex and having to stay at church all day. The church could call into question our opinions of tithing, helping the church financially and even going to the streets to witness as our parents did. And now that some of us have come back to God we lack the credibility as we are always looked upon as the people who failed the church. Impeached. I give God all the glory and honor for this teaching.

Reference
Pullman, J. (2019) Is It Baby Boomers’ Fault Millennials Are Leaving Religion And Less Likely To Go Back? Retrieved from https://thefederalist.com/2020/01/06/is-it-baby-boomers-fault-millennials-are-leaving-religion-and-less-likely-to-go-back/

All Hail The Queen

2020-01-26T11:57:00.001-06:00

Good morning and Happy Sunday all. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. I begin this day thinking of someone who was a big influence on my life and gave me unconditional love even as I was not doing right. One of her favorite sayings was, "it's going to be alright". It may where I get my thinking from. Everyone that she has ever had come in contact with loved her immensely and not to mention the cooking skills that she possessed. I could ALWAYS count on my favorite cake, her German chocolate cake, being there for my birthday. From the rides to the babysitter that my sister and I used to take with her, from allowing me to live with her when I had no place to go, and to being an awesome woman, she will be always remembered by many. Today I introduce to some and present to others, one of the persons who helped me become the person I am, my grandmother, Lilla Mae Birdsong. All Hail The Queen!

As I begin this teaching I want to define the word queen and to do so I am going to go my source which is dictionary.com. The word Queen means as follows; the female ruler of an independent state.

I as well as many others consider my grandmother as their queen in a sense as her independent state included family, friends, strangers, church members, neighbors, and even to pets. All Hail The Queen!!

As I begin this biblical portion of this teaching of All Hail The Queen, I begin in Joshua 2:8-14. In this passage Rahab, a woman from, little means, was used by God to help his people gain the land

that was promised to them by God. My grandmother by trusting in God, did what should could, to shelter, minister and/or cook to help bring lost souls to the kingdom of God. All Hail The Queen!!

As we continue with these teaching of All Hail The Queen we go back to the Word of God and to 2nd Kings 4:22-23. In this passage the woman of God needs help for her son who is dead and gone. The

woman knows the things God can do. My grandmother lived by the mantra of it gonna be alright instilled that in her children, her grandchildren, her great grandchildren, neighbors, coworkers and strangers. All Hail The Queen!!!

As we come to the end of the biblical portion of this teaching of All Hail The Queen I go to Esther 4:15-16. In this passage once Esther realized that not only those that she loved would perish but her

people would be eliminated as well, Esther acted even if it meant death. In ministering to lost souls in some places such as at the places of employment , which was frowned upon, my grandmother looked lead other to their salvation with Christ. All Hail The Queen!

In conclusion of this teaching of All Hail The Queen I want to express that I am going to miss my grandmother as well as many others. She was a fantastic wife, mom, sibling, aunt, cousin, grandparent and great grandmother. As we get ready to celebrate her life I share this scripture of that reminds me of her; 2nd Timothy 4-6-8. For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand, I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that Day, and not to me only but also to also to all who loved his appearing. I love you so much Grandma. Miss you so much. You were a Queen to the masses. Please join me in celebrating the life of my Grandmother, Lilla Mae Birdsong, All Hail The Queen!!!

Games of Thrones

2020-01-13T11:42:00.000-06:00

Good morning and Marvelous Monday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. Games of Thrones was one of the most watched television programs.Its premise is based on, nine noble families fight for control over mythical lands of Westeros. Each family has land that it owns but each one wants more than they have. In our daily lives we are all fighting for the control of kingdoms, our lives. There are things such as doubt that can affect our kingdoms, our lives, if we let it become a part of our lives. There are things such as fear that keeps our kingdoms, our dreams, from becoming a reality. And then there are people that do not want our kingdoms, our lives, to become better than their's. we shall refer to them as haters. We as a people of faith cannot be immersed in these negative things and with God as our guide we will not have to be concerned with the Game of Thrones that others want to impose in our lives.

There are many things that can hold back someone from stepping into what God has for them. As continue in this year of 2020 Perfect Vision we have to place things such as doubt, fear and haters

to the side and become the kings and queens that God has made us. The Game of Thrones in our personal lives can be conquered and we can come into the destiny that God has promised.

As we come into the biblical portion of this teaching of The Game of Thrones I begin in Genesis 18:9-12. God has promised something that seems to be impossible, a child for Abraham and Sarah.

It made Sarah laugh and then lie (verse 15). In our kingdoms, our lives, God has promised us some things but at times instead of being patient or trusting him, we are laughing and doubting.

As we continue in the Word of God for this teaching of The Game of Thrones we go to Exodus 32:1-5. In this passage of verses Aaron and the people of God who have been released from bondage are

fearful that Moses has abandoned them and begin to make their own god, a golden calf. Some of us fear that God will not heal, help, make things better and look for other gods, fornication, drugs, deceit. Game of Thrones.

As I conclude the biblical portion of this teaching of Game of Thrones I go to Matthew 12:9-14. In this passage of scriptures Jesus is doing something good, healing a person, but the haters, the

Pharisees, were so afraid to lose their favored positions and then plotted to destroy him. In our kingdoms, our lives, Jesus has done some things for us that has others wonder how are we doing so well and they are not. Game of Thrones.

In concluding this teaching of the Game of Thrones, we as a people of God have no reason to have in our kingdoms, our lives, to let doubt, fear or haters be part of our realm. In Deuteronomy 7:6-8 God lets us know we are his chosen people. 1st Peter 2:9-10 explains that we are a royal people. We our blessed beyond measure but cannot let our kingdoms, our lives, be part of any negative things. There are more things out there besides doubt, fear and/or haters that look to become part of our lives. We must embrace Psalms 121:1-2 which tells us that God is our help. I am going to embrace the things God has for me and let him guide my kingdom, my life. Game of Thrones.

Y'all Gone Make Me Lose My Mind

2020-01-09T14:57:00.001-06:00

Good morning and Thankful Thursday. As we continue in this year themed 2020 Perfect Vision this has been one of the worst starts to my year and it just does not seem to want to stop. From having a verbal disagreement with a coworker at my second job, losing my bus pass, health issues of my granny, my dad and my ex girlfriend. My barber of many years has had to move from his shop and I have no idea where he is. This morning my bank double charged me two fees which now has my account in the negative. My first job has had me off so long that the first check of the year will be short. I did not get off my second job on time which made me late for my first job. Then on my way to work while getting off the bus a intoxicated man challenged my manhood and I wanted to knock him down. And it is just the ninth day of the year. If this continues to 31st of December, Y'all Gone Make Lose My Mind!!!

I wonder why this is happening to me. I try to live right but am no means perfect. I encourage over 1100 people a day at one of the largest global financial institutions in the world. The seniors who I

sell Medicare insurance love how I take my time and explain things to them. So what did I do to deserve all of this? If things do not get better guess what. Y'all Gone Make Me Lose My Mind.

As I go into the Word of God for this teaching of Y'all Gone Make Me Lose My Mind I go Numbers 14:6-10. In this passage of scripture the promise land is in the reach of the people of God but only

Caleb and Joshua are willing to go forward. People wanted to stone because they were so afraid instead of trusting God. I can see Moses, Caleb and Joshua looking at the others and saying, Y'all Gone Make Lose My Mind!!!

In going back to the Word of God for this teaching of Y'all Gone Make Me Lose My Mind I go to Joshua 7:1-6. In this passage of scripture God had told Joshua that he would defeat the people of Ai

easily. and when it did not happen Joshua was furious. God had never let him down before so he was dazed and confused. One person caused Joshua to say, Y'all Gone Make Me Lose My Mind!!!!

As we come to end of the biblical portion of this teaching of Y'all Gone Make Me Lose My Mind I go to Esther 4:1-14. Mordecai is upset that the king has threatened to kill all of his country men as

his niece, Queen Esther does not seem to want to help her people. Mordecai is angry that she does not want to help and he probably looked at her and said, Y'all Gone Make Me Lose My Mind!!!

As I come to the conclusion of this teaching of Y'all Gone Make Me Lose My Mind even though things have not gotten any better for me I know that God is going to make things that much better. I do not like some of the people I work with so maybe God is trying to humble. I do not pray as much as I should so God could want me to work on my relationship with him. I have not been the best father, son, sibling, family member so God may pushing me towards the people who have unconditional love for me. I do still have two jobs. I received my MBA last year. I met the most wonderful person who keeps me grounded. And I am able continue to teach his Word through these teachings. Be on the lookout next week for another teaching from the year themed 2020 Perfect Vision. Have a fantastic weekend.

2020 (The Year of Perfect Vision)

2019-12-31T13:08:00.000-06:00

Good morning and Wonderful Wednesday. Brand new year. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. One of the things that I have learned about myself is that although I can hear as if I was a rabbit, I can not see that well. It is not as though I am totally blind, but I, like others have issues with seeing. The condition I have is called near sighted. Others have what is called far-sighted. Others may even have deeper issues such as cataracts and some may not be able to see. For those who have eye issues we go to a doctor, an optometrist, to fix the whatever conditions that are wrong with our eyes. For some a pair of eyeglasses is the cure. Others may need stronger things such as bifocals. Others may even need to have surgery. For those of us who are looking for bigger and better things in the coming decade such as opening businesses. becoming an actor or just finishing school, this year is important. It is the year of 2020 and it will be the year of perfect vision.

To begin this teaching let me first define the words perfect and vision. I go to dictionary.com and it defines perfect as follows; exactly fitting the need in a certain situation. The word vision means as

follows; the act or power of anticipating which will be or may come to be. That has me excited as the coming year I expect God to do some awesome things for those that love him.

The teachings for this year will be based on three scriptures in from the Word of God. The first base scripture of the month will be coming from the Book of Genesis 15:1. In this verse God comes to

Abram in a vision and not only tells Abram not to be afraid as he will not only shield him but provide a great reward. Most of us have been able to do some of the things that God promised us because we were afraid before. But he is our great reward. 2020 Perfect Vision.

As we continue in the Word of God for this teaching on 2020 Perfect Vision I go to one of my favorite scriptures and that is Habakkuk 2:1-3. This verse tells of God presented a vision and that the

it will come at appointed and will not be long before it comes to reality. There are those such as myself who has big dreams and am ready for God to lead me and those I love into making them a reality. 2020 Perfect Vision.

For the last base scripture for the teaching of 2020 Perfect Vision I got Acts 26:15-18. In this teaching Paul tells of how Jesus appeared to him and provided him with a vision of how his life will be that

much better. Many have not accepted Jesus as the Son of God and that the things he has for us in our lives will help us achieve all that we want. 2020 Perfect Vision.

As I conclude this teaching on 2020 Perfect Vision I want to thank God that he has exactly fitting the need in a certain situation and that he will let the act or power of anticipating which will be or may come to be in my life. I am excited for those who may be graduating from school, starting new businesses, coming into their own and whatever you have been preparing for all of this time. Step out on faith as God is your shield and reward. Be confident as your vision is plain and it will not be long for it is shown to you. 2020. Perfect Vision. And finally Jesus is ready to come into your life and have your dreams and aspirations come true. Join me Friday for the theme of the month of January.

I Told Yo So

2019-07-01T09:56:00.001-05:00

Good morning and Happy Monday. Brand new month. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we begin the 182nd day of the year 2019 I recall back to a time when I was attending grammar school and it had been cold and ice on the ground. My Mother knew that I liked to do things on my own but really was not wise in my decision making being a teen. She told me before she left to go to work that she wanted to not wear my favorite shoes which would not be able to grip the ground and I may fall and injure myself. So while we she was there I took them off and placed on the shoes that she knew I should wear to be safe. As soon as she walked out of the door I decided that maybe she did not know what she was talking about and I changed my shoes to the ones I liked to wear. I headed out the door and began my walk to school in the shoes that I wanted to wear. I was on my way to an I Told You so moment.

As I began my walk to school I had to hurry because in the time that I wanted for my mom to leave and for me to place back on the shoes I wanted, I only had a few minutes to make it on time or I

would be late and that would possibly alert my mom that I did not listen to her. As I got closer to the school I heard the bell and began to run and then it happened. The I Told You So Moment

In Acts 27:9-10 Paul warns those that are in charge of the ship that the voyage will not be successful and maybe they thought he was trying to delay his appearance in front of Ceasar and he was not.

As I tried to beat the bell to be on time I fell as heard something pop. As I lie in pain and I am fear of what my Mom is going to do as I disobeyed her. I am in the midst of a I Told You So Moment.

In Acts 27:21 Paul comes back to tell the sailors that if they had listened to him that the problems and issues that they are having would not be happening. As I lie on the ground I am worried about the

punishment I am going to receive from my parents as I lie on the ground with a broken bone due to me being hard headed and actually I deserve it. I am in the middle of my I Told You So moment.

In coming to the conclusion of this teaching I Told You So I go Acts 27:22-28. Paul assures the men on the ship that although the did not listen that no harm will come to any of them. As I finally

arrive at the hospital and I see my Mother she is not disappointed at me nor does she scold me. She showers me with love and concern and that shocks me. She did not even say I Told You So.

In closing there are so many people who take chances or do not do the things that we think they should do and we are quick to say I Told You So. I Told You that you married the wrong person. I Told You That job was going to end or let you go. I Told You that you was not going to amount to nothing. These are things we do at times without thinking not knowing that God is in the midst of everything and if he can be there for you he can be there for anyone. Paul had warned of impending doom and instead of being angry about it, he encouraged the men did not listen to him. My mom gave me love and took care of me even though I did not listen to her. For those who may not had listened and did things that they should not have done, your I Told You So moment will be okay if God is in the midst of it. Have the best month ever.

The Comeback

2018-04-18T16:47:00.000-05:00

Good afternoon and Wonderful Wednesday. As we continue with these teachings in the month of Adjustments in April based on Jeremiah 30:1-3 and Luke 20:5-7 the past month I lost both of the jobs that I had. I was wondering what can I do and how would I make it. I wanted to cry but the tears never came. I wanted to become depressed but it seemed like that never happened. I wanted to stop these teachings but what good would that do. In times that seem hard that is when you trust in God the most as your faith will be tested and mine surely was. How could God allow this to happen when I love him and take time out to teach his Word to people across the world even though it may just be a few. But as usual what I thought was a setback actually was an opportunity for me to make an Adjustment in April and began a strategy for something I will call The Comeback.

In beginning this teaching I want to begin by defining the word Comeback and in doing so will go to dictionary.com. The word comeback means as follows; a return to popularity, position or prosperity.

As a person who is in the walk of faith no matter how many times I have been down God has returned my popularity, given me a better position and has given more prosperity than one can imagine. The Comeback. This teaching will be coming from the 1st base scripture of the month and that is Jeremiah 30:1-3.

As we go to the Word of God for the teaching of The Comeback we go to Jeremiah 30:1. In this verse God speaks to Jeremiah. One of the things that I love about God before he returns your popularity He

wants to know if you are ready to hear what he has to say. Your way or my way of coming out a situation at times will be totally opposite of what He wants you to do. To prepare for The Comeback you and I must listen to what God says.

In going back to the Word of God I go back to Jeremiah 30:2. In this verse God gives Jeremiah instructions on how to have those who walk in faith to regain their position and that is by writing.

In order for The Comeback to take place you may need to write down what God is telling you to do and share with others to regain the position that not only you need to regain but others who are going through some stuff. The Comeback.

In coming to end of the Biblical portion of The Comeback I go Jeremiah 30:3. In this verse God tells Jeremiah to begin to prepare for their return to prosperity as God is going to bring them out of a bad

situation, being in exile, and into the land that God gave them. In this walk of faith God will give you all of your prosperity when you trust that he will no matter the situation. The Comeback.

In conclusion this teaching is to let everyone know who has had a setback that God will turn it into a comeback. I have had so many setbacks in my lifethat it would be foolish for me to count them. I have said this before that I lived off 100$ a month and was basically homeless. But it allowed me to return to school to get a certification in retail management which when I finished I got a laptop. With the laptop I was able to go to school to become a teacher of his Word and then began and finished my Bachelors degree in Human Resources Summa Cum Laude and begin a Masters program. Along the way there have been more setbacks as death in the family has been prevalent but the strong belief in God that I and my family share has allowed us to push through. God will give you back your popularity if that is what you desire. He will also give you back your position if that is what you desire. And he most definitely give you prosperity even when you think he may not. Listen him when He speaks, prepare to write down what he says and then get ready for The Comeback. I give God all the honor and glory for this teaching and ask him to bless all that read this and those who may read this and have had a setback get ready for The Comeback.

Beauty and the Beast

2018-04-09T20:11:00.001-05:00

Good evening and Marvelous Monday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we continue these teachings of Adjustments in April based on Jeremiah 30:1-3 and Luke 20:5-7 most of the people who know me in the job settings where I have worked will probably tell you that I am the nicest person that they have ever met. The name of this blog came from me encouraging people in the hallway of 175 W Jackson and telling them it is brand new week to accomplish what you may not have gotten done already. As a doorman, insurance agent., and other places I have worked consumers and customers and residents have gotten the best of me. But for those family members who truly love me and that is including my parents, sons, and siblings, for they are the closest to me as far as being related, I treated them like crap, no kind words for them. I was in a sense a Beauty and a Beast.

You see I had more love for those people who I really did not know, and had no love for those I did know. I did not disrespect my family members with words but with my actions. I have a lovely

family and even have a legacy of land waiting for me but I could not appreciate the beauty of what they had for me because I was full of a beast. Beauty and the Beast.

As we come into the Word of God for this teaching I want to go to Ezekiel 16:15. In this verse the people of God are on the verge of losing everything as the beauty God gave them, they used to

promote themselves and in doing that they became the beast. I thought that the girls and the drugs and gambling were more important than my family and that is not right in the eyes of God. Beauty and the Beast.

In continuing the teaching of Beauty and the Beast we come back to Ezekiel 16:16. In this verse the people of God are still worshipping idols at the high places that God did not sanction them to do. I

took the love that my parents and siblings had for me and gave my love to the women who I would be with or my friends who I hung out with. Beauty and the Beast.

As we come to the conclusion of this teaching of Beauty and the Beast I go back to the Word of God and to Ezekiel 16:17. In this verse the people of God took the things that God gave them and used

to create idols for them to worship to which was not what God intended for them to do. I looked at the things in my life what I thought was important and forgot about my family. Beauty and the Beast.

In conclusion there are many of us who love others and treat their family members like crap. How can that be? Many of us say we love God but treat other members of the Body of Christ like a leper. How is that? God gave us all he could to make us all beautiful, inside and out. But for most of us the beast in us does not allow us to love the family member who betrayed us. The sister who beat you out of your money. The brother who slept with your girlfriend. The parents who did not let you move back in when you did not have no place to go. You have no love for them because of the beast that is taking over you. God is a God of beauty. I love my parents and my sons and do not want no parts of that beast any more. Be beautiful to all and tell the beast, which is not of God to let you be. Beauty is what I seek now and I am saying goodbye to the beast.

Between A Rock and A Hard Place

2018-04-04T18:30:00.000-05:00

Good morning and Wonderful Wednesday. Back in 2016 I decided I wanted to branch out into something different as I was on the verge of getting a undergraduate degree in Human Resources and decided the benefits adviser was the part of the HR field I wanted to begin with. I looked on the internet and saw this up and coning tech company and decided this would be the company for me. After getting all of my licenses needed for the position I begin to work for this company. After one year of doing real well with the products that the company offered to consumers, mostly the Affordable Care Act health also known as Obamacare, this company decided that offering a limited benefit plans called fixed indemnity's which only pays a low fixed amount for medical services These policies would offer the company to make a lot of money but would have me doing things that were unethical. So if I wanted to keep my job, I was in a tough spot. In this walk of faith some of us are in tough spots. It is as if we are Between a Rock and A Hard Place.

In general people of faith have been placed Between A Rock and A Hard Place. Is the COGIC or Baptist teachings correct. Are Catholics the religion we are supposed to follow or being

non-denominational and not be limited to one teaching the way. So imagine the pressure of jobs where meat may be spoiled but it is still served, or working in a store where drugs may be sold on the outside of the store, or selling products to consumers that we know that they are not going to help the consumers and be part of a scam. At times choices we make have placed us in a position of being in Between A Rock and A Hard Place.

In coming into the Word of God for this teaching of Between A Rock and A Hard Place I want to begin in 1st Samuel 28:1-3. In these scriptures David has been chased from Israel, and now is aligned

with his enemies, the Philistines and Achish tells him David he will be with them forever. Being unwanted from home but now fighting with his enemies, David is stuck Between A Rock and A Hard Place.

In continuing this teaching of Between A Rock and A Hard Place I go back to the Word of God, I go to 1st Samuel 29:1-3. Now when Achish comes back with David and his men, the Philistines are

in shock. This is David that pursued them with Saul and was credited with killing ten thousands of Philistines. They were not having it and now David is Between A Rock and A Hard Place.

As we come to end of the Biblical portion of this teaching Between A Rock and A Hard Place we go to 1st Samuel 29: 6-11. In these passages David is confronted by Achish and he has to leave what he

thought was a safe place and return back to Israel and eventually face Saul and those who are trying to kill him. David is Between A Rock and A Hard Place.

In conclusion this walk of faith seems to have some of us Between A Rock and A Hard Place. Do I stay at my job and scam people and still think I am ethical. Do I have an occasional drink and be judged by the religious people who think that any drinking is a sin. Or do I say that my religion is superior than all others and disparage the rest. God will provide all the answers if there is a belief he will and can pull you out of these situations. My degree is based on ethics as well as the licenses I have as well. There was no way that I was going to stay Between A Rock and A Hard Place so I made a decision to leave my job and find something that I can feel good about. I am at peace and feel much better. My solution may not be your solution. David was promised sanctuary from Saul but had to find out he still was in a bad situation even after being promised sanctuary forever. Between A Rock and A Hard Place was needed for David to become a king and is part of becoming stronger for those people of faith. May God bless all those who may read this teaching and I thank him for pulling me out of being Between A Rock and A Hard Place. Have a great rest of the week.

Adjustments in April (Theme for the Month of April)

2018-04-01T20:25:00.000-05:00

Good morning and Marvelous Monday. Brand new month. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we enter the 4th month and 91st day of the year 2018, to me this is the second quarter of the year. The first three months I had big goals and dreams and for whatever reasons there were I did not achieve. I wanted to lose some 20lbs by this tie and it is still a work in progress. I would have thought that I would have found a job that I would like rather than one where I had to tell people that the product they were buying may cause a tax penalty, when it actually would be a tax penalty. I would have thought I would had visited my parents by now and even that has not happened. Normally even though I did not accomplish my goals and did not find another job and did not see my parents I was cool. But there is a new person inside of me and I see in this second quarter of the year there needs to Adjustments in April.

So as I begin this teaching I want to go to dictionary.com for the meaning of the word adjustments. Adjustments means as follows; the act of adaptation to a particular condition, position or purpose.

In the walk of faith those who believe may have to adapt to a particular condition to reach their goal. In the walk of faith there may be times where you have to adapt to a position to see your dreams. And finally in this walk of faith you may have to adapt your purpose. Adjustments in April.

As we begin this teaching of Adjustments in April there will be two base scriptures which the first will be Jeremiah 30:1-3. When I teach on this subject it will look at how the people of God will be

have to adapt to new position as God is getting ready to make a move in their lives. We as the people of faith have to believe that your goals can be met with a Adjustment in April.

As we come into the second base scripture of the month we go to Luke 20:5-7. In these verse the rulers of the day come to Jesus with a question and now they are asked a question that they could not

answer because of public opinion. In this walk of faith there will be times where are position will be questioned. Adjustments in April.

In coming to end of the Biblical portion of this teaching I want reflect on another scripture that will be taught on this month but is not a base scripture and that is 1st Samuel 29:6-8. This teaching will

show that David even being a hero had to adapt to new condition as his enemies who befriended him do not want him around anymore. Adjustments in April.

In conclusion, in this walk of faith you have to be able to make adjustments. Like when your coworker does not like you for no reason and tries to push your buttons even as you try to turn the other cheek. Or when you have been dating someone for a while and find out that they want to move on and you are hurt and do not know what to do. People are going to try you each and every day as they think that a person of faith is soft and a punk, which is not true but they want to try you anyway. The walk of faith is like losing weight, you have to adapt to a condition in order for change to happen. The walk of faith is like being at that job that you hate but you have to put yourself in position to make the best of it. The walk of faith is purpose filled as seeing my parents is something that I have to do as much as I can while I can. I can never speak for any one else but this month I am making Adjustments in April. Have the best month ever and may God bless all who read this.

You Are Not My Authority

2018-03-29T10:00:00.003-05:00

Good morning and Thankful Thursday. As we come to the end of these teachings of Marching With Determination based on Joshua 6:15-17 and Amos 7:12-15 one of the things that some of the people we come in contact with have opinions on what you and I should do with our lives. In my life I have been asked about why do I go to church because Pastor (insert any Pastors name because it is not one minister they have issues with) is taking your money and living large. Why are you with that woman who has a job, acts independent and have two children already? Why are you in school this late in life and trying to get a Masters at that? These haters, doubters, naysayers or whatever you want to call them have no desire to see you succeed and seeing you trying to accomplish anything goes against their opinion of you. We have to come to the point to let these people know is that You Are Not My Authority.

In coming into this teaching of You Are Not My Authority I want to define the word authority. I go to dictionary.com for the definition and it is as follows; the right to control, command or determine. We

as the people of faith have the right to control what we do in our lives. We have the right to command the things that God has promised us. And of course we have the right to determine on what direction we want our lives to be. You Are Not My Authority will be based on the second base scripture of this month, Amos 7:12-15.

In coming into the Biblical portion this teaching of You Are Not My Authority we begin Amos 7:12. In this verse we see where a priest begins to berate Amos and tells him to quit telling people what

God told him to do. The priest, Amaziah, is connected to the authority of the day, King Jeroboam, who feels that he has the right to control the messages from God. You Are Not My Authority.

As we continue in the Word of God for this teaching of You Are Not My Authority I go to Amos 7:13. In this verse we see Amaziah continue berate Amos and tells him he has no right to command

anything as he on the grounds of the king, royal ground, government property and Amos need to leave right away as he is not welcomed there. You Are Not My Authority.

As we come into the last base scriptures of this teaching of You Are Not My Authority we go to Amos 7:14-15. In this verse the prophet Amos tells Amaziah that you do not have the right to

determine what I have to say as God called me, a sheepherder and fruit laborer and told me to say what I have to say. Amaziah and Jerobaum, You Are Not My Authority.

In coming to the conclusion of this teaching of You Are Not My Authority for those who trust in God and have faith that anything he says those of the world has no power over you. Sometimes we sit in fear of those who want to see us fail and will not try or say anything. You Are Not My Authority and you have no control over if I go to church and what my spiritual leader may be doing or not. You Are Not My Authority and you cannot command me to where I can worship or pray or be that example for my sons and any youth that I come in contact with. You Are Not My Authority so you cannot determine if I am too old to be going to school or should I ever be writing these blogs at all. There is nothing that God will not do for me if I put in the work and if it means ministering to the homeless, mentoring, being encouraging or whatever God has for me to do, unless you are my Father in heaven or a believer in the Word of God, You Are Not My Authority. Marching With Determination. That is what I am talking about. I thank God for another chance to teach his Word and look forward to the month of April for new teachings. Have a great Easter holiday weekend and enjoy the rest of this month.

To Go Where No One Has Gone Before

2018-03-23T10:00:00.001-05:00

Good morning and Happy Friday. As we continue these teachings of Marching With Determination based on Joshua 6-15-17 and Joel 7:12-15, one of the things that I have had the opportunity to see in my lifetime was how the space program of the United States developed enough knowledge to actually send people to the moon. This frontier had never been explored and there was a question of whether there were resources available for human beings to able to live there. So in 1969 a group of astronauts were the first to have a successful mission to land and explore the moon. Today that seems so long ago as technology has not only provided more frequent space trips but satellite images can see images not only from the moon but even as far away as Saturn. Even though there may not be any way for man to ever inhabit these places, scientist still want to find out if they can. In Marching With Determination we as the people of faith need not just be in areas of comfort. We need To Go Where No One Has Gone Before.

In this walk of faith there is tendency to stay in safe places when there is a need for something different to be done. We love that Sunday service and that choir and/or praise team was off the chain

But when it comes to spreading the Word of God we either do not think we can do it or may be afraid and that is understandable. The world is expanding what it does but we as the people of faith are still where we started. We have To Go Where No One Has Gone Before. This teaching will be based on the first base scripture of this month, Joshua 6:15-17.

As we begin the Biblical portion of this teaching of To Go Where No One Has Gone Before I go to Joshua 6:15. In this verse it tells of how the people of God have been doing what God has told them

and today is no different. They march around the city seven more times as God has instructed them.

They are on the verge on receiving the promises of God. To Go Where No One Has Gone Before.

As we continue in the Word of God in these teaching of To Go Where One Has Gone Before we go to Joshua 6:16. In this verse we see after everyone has done what they have supposed to, Joshua tells

people that God has given them city as promised. Even though nothing has happened yet Joshua is excited about what is going to happen, To Go Where No One Has Gone Before.

In coming to the end of this portion of the teaching of To Go Where No One Has Gone Before, we go to the Word of God and Joshua 6:17. In this verse the celebration can begin as they have followed the

Word fro God and the destruction is now imminent. Joshua and the people of God are on the verge of reaching the promise land. To Go Where No One Has Gone Before.

In conclusion many of us beginning to see that change is in order. We cannot be content to be in the same spot with no growth within us and no growth in the kingdom of God. The world is offering our youth and others more things to look forward to than we are. In Numbers the 14th chapter it shows that Joshua and Caleb spoke up about going to land that God promised them but the majority were scared and happy to be just out of bondage. And they had to suffer for 40 more years. Let us not let the wonders of God just stay in our homes or the places that we worship. We have to become more bold in telling others about God. At the job, on public transportation, in the hood or the projects, in the clubs, in other countries or continents. God is not a Chicago God or a God of only America or the North American continent. He is a God of all and our job is to introduce others to him. I love going to church and fellowship, but the time is for me to do something different. I have To Go Where No One Else Has Gone Before and tell the world about God.

I Am Determined

2018-03-18T11:01:00.001-05:00

Good morning and Happy Sunday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we begin this first teaching in the month of Marching With Determination based on Joshua 6:15-17 and Joel 7:12-15 in my younger days completing school requirements for a Bachelor's degree was not important to me. I had popularity, good looks and a personality that drew people to me and that was all I needed in my life. I was going to be the coolest ever, the most hardcore, the ladies man, and any other things that the world thought that was the thing to do. As I got older I see where there is a value in having an education and having your degree. In my 50's I finally got smart and decided to get my college degree and I did. I was determined to show my sons it was not too late to get their degrees. The ways of the world at times seems to better than living the life of faith but I Am Determined to live a life but on faith in God.

The life of a person of faith to some can be pretty boring. The world can drink to get drunk and do drugs and gamble and sleep with any and everyone. The world can gamble and curse and connive to

get ahead. The thought process of the world is easy for one who is weak and not focused to become involved in. Even for those who are strong can stray away from the teachings of Christ when the ways of the world seems to be better. But I Am Determined to continue in this life of faith.

In going to the Word of God for this teaching of I Am Determined I go to Acts 9:36-38. In these verses it looks at Tabitha who is also called Dorcas. She has passed away after living a life of faith in

God but here friends are have found out that Peter and other disciples are in the area and ask them to Joppa. There was really no hope for Dorcas but the people of faith did not give up and are determined. I Am Determined.

In continuing this teaching of I Am Determined we go back to the Word of God I go back to Acts 939. In this verse Peter comes and sees the people around who are there weeping and mourning and

looking at all of the things that Dorcas used to make and sees this as a hindrance to him being able to do the will of God so he puts everyone out to show how determined he is to do the will of God. I Am Determined.

In coming to the end of the Biblical portion of this teaching of I Am Determined I go Acts 9:40-41. In these verses Peter prays over Dorcas and she arises from her death bed and is presented to those

who had given up hope on seeing her alive again and is now a testament of the power of God and therewards of one who lives and walks in faith. I Am Determined.

In closing the walk of faith is so difficult. The ways of the world were so important to me, that I did not think that getting an education was important. I never realized that me not getting my degree would also cause my sons to not get their degrees. My father always talks about being an example of others and we all are examples. If I show that I Am Determined no matter what seems dead in my life God will bless it and raise it from the dead. You can write that play, produce that television show, open that business, be that leader of men and/or women, cultivate your talents, fix that broken relationship with your loved ones, be able to achieve all that you ever could imagine. I am one more year from getting my Masters, being that example for my sons and others because I Am Determined. I thank God for allowing me to teach this lesson and ask him to bless all who read this. Have a great week.

Marching With Determination ( Theme for March)

2018-03-09T04:29:00.001-06:00

Good morning and Happy Friday. Brand new month. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we come into another day I like seeing the bands play at the half time of any football game. The practice and preparation it takes looks to be time consuming. Most people do not stay in marching bands because not only do you have to play an instrument, but you also have to being to march while playing the instrument. The coordination when it is all put together looks flawless. In this walk of faith in believing in the Father, the Son and The Holy Spirit, we may have to have that same kind of discipline that the marching band has and not be afraid of any consequences that may come in your way. We should strive to be flawless yet be able to march alone or in a group. But whenever we march, we should be doing in a spirit of can do. This month we as people of faith need to continue to March With Determination.

As we begin this teaching I first want to define the words marching and determination. The word marching means as follows; to go forward, to advance and to proceed. and determination means as

follows, a fixed purpose or direction. We as a people of faith must go forward with a purpose to be examples of how living a life with God is so much better than not being under his care. Marching With Determination.

As we go to the Biblical portion of this teaching of Marching With Determination we begin with the first base scripture and that is Joshua 6:15-17. In these verses it will show how Joshua was able to

gather a people together and proceed with direction from God to be able to conquer a whole city for the people of God. That is Marching With Determination.

As we continue in the Word of God for this teaching of Marching With Determination we look at Joel 7:12-15 as the second base scripture of the month. In these verses it looks at how Joel advanced the

the direction of what God wanted him to do despite what the world thought that he should do. That is another example of Marching With Determination.

As we come to end of the Biblical portion of this teaching one of the teachings of this month will come from Mark 11:1-3. In these verses we see where Jesus is getting together a march to go to

Jerusalem and instructs his disciples on what to do. With Jesus in your life, he will help you to be able to advance with purpose of advancing the kingdom of God. Marching With Direction.

In conclusion the reality of life makes it difficult for the people of God. There is no praying in school. The content of television programs show mostly sex or drugs or murders or teaching people how to be disrespectful of each other. We as the people of God need to not be afraid and accept theses and other types of things from being allowed. The precision of the people of faith is led by God who is our Father. Our beliefs in him and our obligation to do God's will is second nothing else in our life. As the people of God we must proceed to advance direction and go forward in his purpose. As God as our band director, nothing is impossible. Marching With Direction. The theme for the month of March. I thank God for this teaching and ask him to bless all who may read this and all that may not or cannot read this teaching. Have a blessed weekend and will have another teaching next month.

Hidden Fees

2018-02-25T10:06:00.000-06:00

Good morning and Happy Sunday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. One of the things that I want to do in the near future is purchase a vehicle. As a matter of fact I have one of my credit card companies that will supply me with enough financing to purchase me a very nice car. I will tell people I am in need of a vehicle as I am often traveling and some of the places I travel to could be reach in half of the time it takes me to take the bus. So I am very excited that I may be driving soon. As anxious as I am to be able to drive a newer vehicle, I am hesitant because of how long and in-depth the contract I have to sign for this vehicle. Wait I did not know that I had to pay a something called a dealer prep fee? I have to take your warranty or I have to pay a penalty? What is the doc fee? See all of these things are in the contract but if I had not read them I would not have found them. These are called Hidden Fees.

As I begin this teaching let me define what hidden fees are. Hidden fees are costs or charges that are hidden as to not to be noticed, not included in the basic price. We all know that car dealers are known

for this kind of deceptive practice. But the world is also deceptive in some ways. Many men have promised fidelity to their wives and broken that promise. Many women are friends with a person so that they can get closer to their man. Hidden Fees are everywhere. We just have to be able to recognize them.

As we begin the biblical portion of this teaching of Hidden Fees I go to Acts 23:12-15. In these verses the Jewish men are angry with Paul and are coming up with ways to kill him when he leaves

prison. There are going to be some people of the world who will tell you that God is not real and will try to discredit any thing that is good happening in your life to chance and luck rather than a blessing from God. Hidden Fees.

As we continue this teaching of Hidden Fees, we go back to the Word of God and Acts 23:16-22. In these verses we see where Paul nephew has learn of the plot to kill Paul and these events eventually

leads the young man to the commander of the guard who will now take control of the situation. Many of us would rather go to our friends with our problems whose advice may be wrong for you because they actually despise you. Hidden Fees.

As we come to the conclusion of this teaching Hidden Fees we go back to Acts 23:23-24. The commander of the prison begin to prepare for the ambush and not only has soldiers in place but a

a time set up to make the move to move Paul to safety. When we trust that God will never leave us nor forsake us, we are not as prone to the Hidden Fees as others that do not have a relationship with him may be.

In conclusion a life with God will be life of no Hidden Fees. Yes we have to do things like witness to others and keep his commandment and be willing to do his will and not our will, but that is a life of No Hidden Fees. He will bless you immensely if you do want he asks you to and you trust he will come through as always. The life outside God is filled with Hidden Fees. Unprotected sex may be great for teenagers and adults alike but when the unexpected pregnancy happens or the unexpected STD, did you not know there was Hidden Fees. When you are doing suggestive dances on social media that your friends said was cool but then you get the creep inboxing with his so called information. That is Hidden Fees. A life with God as your Father, Jesus as your mediator and the Holy Spirit as your guide is a life free of Hidden Fees. Now about this car? What are these fees again., LOL. Have a great week.

So You Think You Can Dance

2018-02-23T04:30:00.000-06:00

Good morning and Happy Friday. One of the shows that has been wildly successful is a show called So You Think You Can Dance. Contestants come from all over to show the audience and the judges to show off their dancing skills. The show began in 2005 and reaches an estimated 10 million viewers. Although I have never seen the show, the contestants that are finally chosen to appear are have to master solo dances, duets and finally group dances. The dances can include classical, hip-ho, ballroom and musical theater styles as well. In my life I have overcome some many things that if I wanted to I would not have enough time to write them in my lifetime. But as I awake out of my sleep and get ready to begin my day I wanted to share something with you all today. And that is that the things that God has done in my life has been so wonderful that I can do only one thing and that is to dance. So You Think You Can Dance.

As I look back on my life I can say that I have plenty of reasons to be dancing. I am living and breathing. I still not only have my parents living but one grandparent as well. Although I may live

on a block where there is suspected drug dealing and gang activity I am still treated with respect on my block. God continues to bless me and I just want to dance. So You Think You Can Dance.

As I begin the biblical portion of this teaching I begin in Jeremiah 20:7-9. In this verse Jeremiah is disturbed by the people not hearing the messages that God has given him. But the things that God has

him is as if it is a fire in his soul and he has to continue forward. As a teen I could have been a parent as I was trying to and I can thank God that did not happen. So You Think You Can Dance.

As we continue in the Word of God for this teaching of So You Think You Can Dance I go to Matthew 8:14. A leper, who back in these times were most undesirable goes to Jesus to be healed

and his illness is healed because of his belief. One time in my life I had to live off of $50 dollars every two weeks for 6 months. If it had not been for Jesus I know I would not have. So You Think You Can Dance.

As I finish the biblical portion of this teaching of So You Think You Can Dance I go to Acts 20:23-24. Paul is lead by the Holy Spirit to go Jerusalem to finish his ministry despite knowing when he

gets there he will be arrested and see none of his people again. Being led by the Holy Spirit has helped me understand that I do not have to be bound by having to be with someone for the sake of being with someone. So You Think That You Can Dance.

In conclusion I am so glad that God allowed Jesus to die for my sins and the Holy Spirit guide. Me. Ic could be still be in jail, on drugs, drinking heavily, sleeping with any and every woman, doing whatever I could to get by, not trusting others and not being trustworthy, being a worshiper of money or fame. These are just some of the things I could have been but I am not. I am here living a great life and I thank God for all the things that he not done only for me, but for my loved ones as well. As I finish writing this I am getting ready to get down and do my dance. I urge you to be thankful for whatever God has placed in your life and the blessings down the line you will receive. I challenge you right now to break out in your dance to celebrate all that God has done for you. So You Think You Can Dance. I can. I thank God for allowing me to do this teaching and thank the Holy Spirit for keeping me on point and teaching what God wanted me to write. See Ya next week. Have a great weekend

Two Chains

2018-02-18T20:55:00.001-06:00

Good morning and Marvelous Monday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As I begin my first teaching in a long time and the first one for 2018, I feel I must get something off of my chest. One of the things that used to hold me back financially was betting on horses. For me the thrill of winning hundreds of dollars on a bet as small as $20 dollars was alluring to me. I needed to have big wins so I could support my other habits and get ahead of some bills. Nothing could be more easy. There was even sheets and programs to help you put you in a position to have large winnings. I looked at all the times that I won a getting ahead when in fact I was losing more than I was bringing in. I asked God to remove that from my life and he did and I was thankful. Unfortunately although God took away from what I asked of him, there was still something holding me back. I thought I just had one chain when in fact I had Two Chains.

See my sin was one of the oldest in the book and that was woman. I always had to have some woman in my life. It did not matter if they were married, single, engaged or in a relationship, I always had to

more than one in my life. And even if had to reach back in the past, I would to satisfy my sin. There may be someone like me that thought that if one sin was gone all would be gone and that is not true. Although we may feel free at times there may be another chain out there. You may be in the midst of Two Chains.

As we begin this teaching of Two Chains I begin in Jeremiah 40:1-2. In looking at these verses we see where Jeremiah despite being someone freed from bondage in Chapter 38, is still bound. His

message from God has been heard though and he is beginning his steps toward freedom. I did not want to continue being with any and ever body just for the sake of being with someone. Gambling is gone but I still wanted women in my life. I was immersed in Two Chains.

As we continue with this teaching of Two Chains I go back to Jeremiah 40:3. In this verse the captain of the guard assesses the situation and tells Jeremiah that the doom he predicted has now arrived and

there is nothing that can be done for the others. I did not see the problems and issues I would have with the boyfriends and husbands as I was just thinking of the women I was seeing which was more important. I was held from reaching my destiny by Two Chains.

As we come to the end of the biblical portion of this teaching I finish in Jeremiah 40:4-5. In these verses the second chain has been loosened and Jeremiah is not only free to go, all the land that he

sees is his or he can go to Babylon and live as a free man, which is his choice. God has brought me out of the need of having to have a woman in my life and I am learning to live free. God freed my Two Chains.

In conclusion, I was never able to get comfortable in my Two Chains. I always had to see if someone's husband was watching me. I had to see if homegirl's fiance was at work before I came by. I had to juggle the other women who I was seeing to make sure they never saw or knew about each other. In trying to get a piece I had not peace. I was miserable and put away everything and everyone to satisfy my needs of having several women in my life. I can thank God that I have not gambled in quite a while and can continue my journey in life without Two Chains. If you are like me there may be something pressing that you need out of your life. but ask God to remove all that you think may not be right or you may be freed from one and bound by the other. In other words Two Chains. I give God all the glory and honor for this teaching. This is done in the memory of all that have passed away since I last wrote.and dedicated to my cousin Teri Wesley. I will continue to break the ties that bind and never be bound by Two Chains again.

Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places

2017-03-18T20:55:00.002-05:00

Good evening and Happy Saturday. As we continue with these teachings of Perception and Reality based on Numbers 11:4-6 and Deuteronomy 8:2-5 I have Comcast as my cable company. It has features like Internet connection, television channels and even though I have not ever used it, I also have a house phone. But the feature I like the most is a feature called On Demand. This feature is a fantastic because I am always on the go and if there is a certain show I want to see like Greenleaf or American Crime, two of my favorites, I can always go to the On Demand feature and look at these shows. But this On Demand feature is not available to me at work because my company blocks certain sites like this. There are those who have little faith or have no belief in God whatsoever thinks that there is a limit to the things that are God can do. As a matter of fact this is their thinking, On Demand Only Works Certain Places.

We have people who think that our God is limited on the things that he can do and that is not true. There have been many instances in my life where I needed God to come and rectify a situation that

seemed improbable to others but was expected by me.So today I am going to attempt to show those who have given up hope differently. Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places.

As we go into the Word of God for this teaching of Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places, I begin in Exodus 14:10-12. In this verse we see where the people of God have gotten their

freedom but seems to be in a tight spot as their captors the Egyptians see how valuable their work was and not want them back. The people are scared and wonder was it better to be captives. Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places.

As we continue in the Word of God for this teaching of Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places we go to Exodus 14:15-16. In these verses we see where Moses asks God for his help and is

told to lift his rod and eventually the Red Sea parted and the people of God were able to walk right in the middle of the sea. These people needed way out but some thought it would be impossible. Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places.

As we come to the end of the Biblical portion of this teaching of Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places we finish in Exodus 14:19-20. In these verses God provided the people of God with

a cloud of light as they traveled but the same cloud provided darkness for the Egyptians. The people now believed and have been free since. Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places.

In conclusion of this teaching of Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places please know that the God we serve is On Demand everywhere, When there is strife in your home and all else seemed not to work, God is On Demand. When it seems like your finances are not that great and you need a miracle to happen, God is On Demand. When it seems like we cannot get thru the lost in world God is On Demand. There is never a situation or a time that God will not provide relief or a blessing for each and everyone. I know for if I shared all of the times that I asked for things to happen right then, in Reality it has happened more times that not. Perception: On Demand Only Works Certain Places, is not factual or even true. I thank God for those who read these teachings and ask God to bless those who read this and those who may not read this. Please join me next week for a teaching on the 3rd base scripture of the week. John 7:50-52. Enjoy your Sunday and the rest of this everning.

Reality: Eating Humble Pie

2017-03-14T01:18:00.000-05:00

Good morning and Happy Tuesday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past,. The future is unlimited. As we continue these teachings of Perception/Reality in March based on Numbers 11:4-6 and Deuteronomy 8:2-5. One of the things that I have done in my life is talk negatively before things have had a way of working out for the better. There have been so many times that I have place my own self in situations and then I questioned God why is this happening to me. One of the most recent things that I did was to ask God to help as one of the places where I loved to work at, Tyson Foods laid me off. It was a job where I could eat everyday for free, get enough food to feed almost everyone that I know and then some. But I could not advance and I asked God to remove me so I could advance but did not understand at the time when I lost my job it was to begin something better. In Reality I had begun to Eat Humble Pie.

As I get into this teaching of Reality; Eating Humble Pie, I want to define the phrase humble pie. Of course I go to my source of definitions which is dictionary.com. Humble Pie means as follows;

humility forced upon someone, often under embarrassing conditions. In my questioning of what I had God asked to do for me, I was on the verge of not getting what he had for me. Reality: Eating Humble Pie. This teaching is coming from Deuteronomy 8:2-5, the second base scriptures of the month of Perception and Reality in March

As we come into the Word of God I begin in Deuteronomy 8:2. In this verse the people of God have been in the wilderness for forty years it was because it was to test their hearts and to humble them. In

coming to God to tell him I needed to get out of my security position at Tyson Foods to get ready to come into a position that deals with my degree in Human Resource, I had to best tested and become humble. Reality; Eating Humble Pie.

In continuing this teaching of Reality:Eating Humble Pie, I continue with Deuteronomy 8:3. In this verse God humbled the people of God and showed them that man does not live by bread alone but by

the things that comes from the mouth of our Lord. I was worried about how I would make ends meet just by working one job but had to remember that I still had a job and was going to school to better myself . Eating Humble Pie.

As I come to the end of the Biblical portion of this teaching of Reality:Eating Humble Pie I finish in Deuteronomy 8:4-5. In this verse God tells the people of God that he made sure they had clothing and

not one of them had their feet to swell. But he had to make them appreciate what he did for them. I could not fathom that I asked God to remove from a position from where I ate for free and still was able to maintain and sustain the life I was used to. Reality: Eating Humble Pie.

In conclusion one of the things that I found out was that God will do what you ask of him but in his time. There are others who have had humility forced upon someone, often under embarrassing conditions. We questioned God when we thought that our mortgage/rent was not getting paid when he had something way better for us if we had to move. There are some of us who are looking at a repossession of our cars and have asked God to come and fix it but questioned why he allowed the car to be taken. Jobs, money, people who mean us no good, are removed from our lives when we go to God but then we can not see what he has for us we question him and most times have to Eat Humble Pie. That's a Reality. For the same people who made it to the promise land were the same ones complaining in Numbers 11:4-6, and wound up Eating Humble Pie. God will do it when we ask but in his time and in his way. Humble Pie is not good but God is. We have to trust him. I thank God for this teaching and ask him to bless all who may read this and those who may not read this. Please join me for another teaching later on this week.

(Perception) All Hope is Lost

2017-03-07T05:12:00.001-06:00

Good morning and Happy Tuesday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past and the future is unlimited. As we begin these teachings based Numbers 11:4-6, Deuteronomy 8:2-5, John 7:50-52 and Revelations 1:17-19, one of the things I can say about where I live know it certainly has changed much from the times when I was growing up. Although I did not live where I do now, I lived close enough to see how things were then and how they are now. My block where I live at now used to be the home of many people who had jobs and homes that were filled with residents. My block now has maybe a handful of residents that have jobs and there are more boarded up homes than there are ones that are actually lived in. There have been instances of gunfire within the last year and as recently as 3 weeks ago. On my block and all throughout the surrounding blocks, there is no sense of community, pride or belonging. In looking at my and others Perception, All Hope Is Lost.

One of the things that can tear down anyone is a situation where All Hope Is Lost. Now when it happens to a community then it becomes a bigger problem as in when hope is not present it leads to

violence and other crimes as the community really does not care but just exists. We as men and women of God must do all we can to introduce others to God who may think All Hope Is Lost. This teaching will be coming from the first base scripture of the month, Numbers 11:4-6.

As we begin in the Word of God this teaching of All Hope Is Lost we begin in Numbers 11:4. In this verse the people of God have gotten to the point of being hungry for meat and are expressing it in a

way that makes it seems like God has deserted them If you can imagine the young men and women who live in my neighborhood who daily are hungry for meat or anything else and have no means of achieving it, All Hope Is Lost.

As we continue in the Word of God for the teaching of All Hope Is Lost. I go Numbers 11:5. In this verse the people of God remember all of the good things that were provided by their captors, the

Egyptians, and would rather go back to captivity that starve. So when these men and women do not see anything better they are going to turn to things like self medication or other things that the world, their captors, have for them. All Hope Is Lost.

As we come to the end of the Biblical portion of this teaching of All Hope Is Lost. we come to Numbers 11:6. In this verse we that even though they had food to eat, manna, the people of God were

were still starving just eating manna and wanted what they used to have. In looking at my block today although there are food items that are available these people are starving for what others have and they do not. All Hope Is Lost.

In coming to the conclusion of this teaching of All Hope Is Lost. you can bet that most of the violence in my community is based on the hunger and want of things that people who do not have but see others with them, When All Hope Is Lost you may see someone prostituting just to feed that hunger, You will see young men and women turn to drug dealing and gangs as way to not look at life as if All Hope Is Lost. You will see people do any and everything to make it in a community where they often times never leave to see other areas of the city, this country or the world. On my block there are people who stay strictly in the neighborhood and because if they venture out, they may be killed. To them All Hope Is Lost. This is when the current people of God need to come in and remind or let others know the goodness of God. Change the Perception that All Hope Is Lost. I thank God for allowing me to teach this lesson and ask him to bless all who may see this teaching and as well as those who may not. Please join me later this week for a teaching called (Reality) You Go Thru To Come Out based on the second base scripture of the month, Deuteronomy 8:2-5. Have a blessed week.

Perception and Reality in March (Theme of the month)

2017-03-05T00:57:00.001-06:00

Good morning and Happy Sunday. Brand new month. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we continue these teachings of the year of I Have Got Work To Do I am excited about the direction things are headed. We began with having Character in January and then we Advanced in February. We now enter the last month of the 1st quarter of the year wanting to see what is actually important. I began this year by hoping to lose some of the things that we holding me back. My expectations were to be finished with school, have found a permanent position in my field and to lose some weight. As of this time only one of my goals had been reached. I thought I was ready enough to reach all of my first quarter goals but am still trying to complete them. See when began with these goals in mind I saw it happening, Perception and when it did not happen I have to look at Reality. So this month I am going to teach lessons that deal with Perception and Reality.

In defining the words perception and reality I go to my source of definitions and that is dictionary.com. Perception means as follows; to envision. The word reality means as follows; the

state or quality of being real. There are a whole of perceptions on the things that God should be doing for us but the reality is what we should be doing for God to receive the things that he has for us. Perception and Reality in March.

In coming to the Word of God for the base scriptures for the month the first one will be coming from Numbers 11:4-6. When we teach on this later on this month it will show how the people of God had

thought that God had forgot about them and would had rather been back in bondage. At times when God is in our life and things go wrong, we think that God has forgotten about us and that is not true. Perception and Reality In March.

In continuing with the base scriptures of this month of Perception and Reality in March I go Deuteronomy 8:2-5. In these verses we see that the reality of the things that God had them and us go

some things for us all to appreciate coming out of and into the state of real things that he has for us. God is real and that is a reality. Perception and Reality in March.

As we come to end of the base scriptures for these teaching of Perception and Reality in March there are two more that will deal with both perception and reality. In John 7:50-52 the leaders of that day

refused to believe that Jesus was their Messiah. But in Revelation 1:15-17 we see that Jesus being the Son of God is a reality. Perception and Reality in March.

In conclusion these teachings this month will attempt to show those who may waver or think that the things that are happening to them are just plain luck or that they made it happen, is just perception. These teachings will show that God is real and that the only to the Father is through Jesus, who is our Messiah, our all and all. We all go through some things and at times we may have a perception that God is not with us, but we must maintain that he is at all times. And even though the things I perceived to happen did not, in reality they are going to happen as I can do all things through Christ. Perception and Reality in March.. I thank God for allowing me to teach his word and ask God to bless all who read this and even those who may not. Please join me this week for a teaching called Your Envision is Way Off based on the first base scripture, Numbers 11:4-6. Have a fantastic month.

In Order To Advance

2017-02-27T20:20:00.001-06:00

Good evening and Marvelous Monday. Brand new week. Brand new attitude. The past is the past. The future is unlimited. As we come to end of the teachings of Advancing in February based on Esther 10:1-3 I want to congratulate each and everyone who has not only come out of a situation but rose above it. On tomorrow I am going to become a full-time employee from a position that was seasonal. It was not easy as I had to do some things to get that position. I had to be on time each day during my seasonal position as being tardy even some of the times may have cost me the permanent position. It was a time sensitive job meaning that I had to be there every day and even do the mandatory overtime even though I had another job and was going to school. I especially had to make sure that I had the right attitude each and every day and not let those who may not like me just because get to me. I had to do all these things In Order To Advance.

In Order To Advance there may be times for you to go the extra mile and do some things that are in character but may require more of your character. In Order To Advance you may have to be brave in

certain areas in your life that you have been fearful of. In Order To Advance you must believe that God is there with at all times and nothing is impossible with God in your life. In Order To Advance.

As we come to the Biblical portion of this teaching of In Order To Advance I begin in Esther 9:1. In this verse the kings command to kill the Jews had still an effect in some parts of the land but those

thought that they would hurt the people of God received a rude awakening as God's people were able to overwhelm and defeat them. No matter what may seem like danger, is actually a road to freedom. In Order To Advance.

As we continue in the Word of God for this teaching of In Order To Advance 9:2-3. In these verses it shows that not only did the people of God change what was supposed to happen to them, others

who at first wanted to harm them, joined to help them because they feared Mordecai. This verse is key because it shows that Mordecai, who hung out the gate as an outsider now is feared. In Order To Advance.

In coming to the end of the Biblical portion of this teaching of In Order To Advance I go to Esther 9:4. In this verse we can see where Mordecai has become great in the eyes of the people in the palace

the provinces and is now famous and prominent. One thing that is going to be needed In Order To Advance is to have others respect you no matter where you are at, in the church and in the world.

As we come to the conclusion of this teaching In Order To Advance we have to have some of the attributes that Mordecai exhibited and then we can advance the Kingdom of God. Mordecai did what he had to do to save his people but in order to do so he did the right thing and was eventually rewarded for it, so much so that you can see it in this teaching. In Order To Advance we must not give in to the peer pressure of others all around us. We mist do the right thing for when we do that comes advancement. We must not fear no man and bow down to no one but God. We shall not only have the victory but also have the honor. Oh I wish that I could be more like Mordecai. His belief in God and the love for his people is almost one of the best things I have read in the Bible. And although I advanced on my job, I need to advance the Kingdom of God who will then advance not only me but my causes as well. In Order To Advance. I give God all the glory for this teaching and allowing me the time to do it. I ask him to give every one the spirit of Mordecai and advance the kingdom of God. Please join me next month for the theme of next month and the teachings that will originate from them. Have a great rest of the week.

Government Intervention (Advancing Our Faith)

2017-02-25T00:09:00.000-06:00

Good morning and Happy Saturday. As we continue with these teachings of Advancing in February based on Esther 10:1-3 when I was growing up there was a real big crisis that shook America. There was an overthrow of power in 1979 and the Iranians began to stop sending oil to the United States. This decrease in oil played a big part in the economy of America. One of the things that happened was there was a shortage of gas that had people waiting in long lines to get gas and many gas stations running out of gas daily. For the people of America this was a big crisis as it affected the automakers, who a lot of people depended upon for jobs. There was chaos and confusion daily and the anger that was seen in lines across America was never seen before. Back then we took it for granted gas would always be there and when it was not we had to go to a higher place which meant Government Intervention. As a people of faith, in order to advance our beliefs there is going to have to be a Government Intervention.

The role of the government is important in these days and times as they were back then. All over the world, yes just not in America, there are people who need some kind of assistance from government

to help ends meet, to fight hunger and homelessness and to stem the tide of all the murders across the world. As much as God can do for the people of faith, which is a great deal, one of the powerful things we could do in Advancing Our Faith, is to have some kind of Government Intervention.

As we come into this teaching of Government Intervention (Advancing Our Faith) we begin in Esther 7:3-4. In these verses Queen Esther is using the power she has from being close to the king to bring

to his attention that there is a great injustice going to be done to her people, the people of God. For many of us the way for things to turn around is to have a Government Intervention (Advancing Our Faith).

As we continue with this teaching of Government Intervention (Advancing Our Faith) we go to Esther 7:5-6. In these verses the king asks Esther who would harm her people and she replies that

it is the person who wished to do the most harm and that is Haman. In going to seek help from the government we can change how things can turn out for ourselves and others. Government Intervention (Advancing Our Faith).

In coming to the end of the Biblical portion of this teaching of Government Intervention (Advancing Our Faith) we go to Esther 7:6-10. In these verses we see where the king has now gotten angry with

Haman and this leads to Haman eventually being hung by the place where he thought the would hang Mordecai. We as believers have to begin to activate our power to get others involved. Government Intervention (Advancing Our Faith).

In closing there has to be others in this world today who have the spirit of Mordecai. He spoke to those in authority and was able to Advance Our Faith by having his niece intervene as she was a government official. We as a people of faith have to begin to ask for a serious Government Intervention. My city is horrible for the crimes, especially murders committed everyday. America is reeling from all kind of things from mistrust in the police to changes within the government. And worldwide some of the things that are happening to the refugees is appalling. Mordecai went to the government to save his people. We must hold our political leaders responsible and seek change. Instead of blaming one another or tweeting about it, do something about. Please write your elected leaders (in Illinois our senators are Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin) and make them make the laws that could change how the world looks at crime. One person was able to take prayer out of schools by getting the government involved. Just imagine what we could do as the people of faith by beginning the process of Government Intervention (Advancing Our Faith). Have a fantastic weekend and please join me Sunday for the last teaching of Advancing in February. May God bless all who read this blog and those who may not or cannot.