Faith and Hope

2025-10-16T13:26:00.000-04:00

🔔 Sound the Alarm—Stand in Readiness

📖 Today’s Scripture:

• “Blow the trumpet in Zion; sound the alarm on my holy hill. Let all who live in the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming. It is close at hand.” — Joel 2:1 (NIV)

• “Announce in Judah and proclaim in Jerusalem: ‘Sound the trumpet throughout the land!’ Cry aloud and say: ‘Gather together! Let us flee to the fortified cities!’” — Jeremiah 4:5 (NIV)

💭 Today’s Thoughts:

There’s a stirring urgency in both Joel and Jeremiah’s words—a divine call to awaken, to prepare, and to proclaim. These prophets weren’t just forecasting danger; they were summoning God’s people to spiritual readiness.

In Joel, the trumpet is blown in Zion, the sacred place, reminding us that even the faithful must stay alert. In Jeremiah, the alarm spreads through Judah and Jerusalem, calling the entire community to respond. These aren’t passive warnings—they’re active commands to gather, to flee from compromise, and to take refuge in the Lord.

Today, we are the trumpet-bearers. Whether through prayer, leadership, or creative expression, we are called to sound the alarm—not in fear, but in faith. The day of the Lord is near, and our voices must rise with clarity and conviction. Let us not be silent when the Spirit says speak. Let us not slumber when the Spirit says stand.

🙏 Today’s Prayer:

Lord God, Awaken my spirit to Your call. Let me not be lulled by comfort or distracted by noise. Teach me to discern the times and respond with boldness. Make me a trumpet in Your hand—clear, courageous, and consecrated. May I proclaim Your truth with love and urgency, drawing others to Your refuge. Strengthen me to stand firm, to speak life, and to prepare the way for Your coming. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

🌊 “Not One Strand Lost”

2025-09-08T18:09:00.001-04:00

📖 Today’s Scripture:

“But not a hair of your head will perish.” — Luke 21:18 (NIV)

💬 Reflection:

In Luke 21, Jesus speaks of trials—betrayals, persecution, and global unrest. Yet in the middle of this

storm, He offers a quiet, astonishing promise: “Not a hair of your head will perish.”

This isn’t a denial of hardship—it’s a declaration of divine attention. God sees every detail of your life.

Every prayer whispered in the dark, every act of kindness, every moment of endurance—it’s all counted,

all protected, all purposeful.

And here’s the beautiful truth: when you stand firm in faith, others notice. Your courage becomes a

lighthouse. Your peace becomes a balm. Your trust in God sends ripples outward—encouraging

someone who’s weary, strengthening someone who’s afraid, reminding someone who’s forgotten

that they are seen and loved.

So today, let this promise anchor you. You are not forgotten. You are not vulnerable to chaos.

You are held—completely and intimately—by a God who guards even the smallest strand of your being.

And as you walk in that assurance, may your life become a ripple of encouragement to others.

Because when you stand firm, you help others rise.

🙏 Today’s Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your promise that not even a hair of my head will perish without Your knowing.

Help me to trust in Your protection—not just for myself, but for those I love. Let my faith ripple outward

today, encouraging someone who needs hope. Use my words, my actions, and even my quiet endurance

to remind others that You are near. May I be a vessel of Your peace in a world that desperately needs it.

In Jesus' name. Amen.

🌿 “The Quiet Path of Obedience”

2025-09-08T18:03:00.003-04:00

📖 Today’s Scripture:

“And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.” — Mark 8:26 (KJV)

💭 Today’s Thoughts:

In this moment, Jesus has just healed a blind man. But instead of inviting celebration or testimony, He gives a curious command: go home quietly. No fanfare. No public announcement. Just a private miracle and a personal directive.

Why the silence? Sometimes, the most profound transformations are meant to be internalized before they’re shared. Jesus knew that the man’s healing wasn’t just physical—it was spiritual. And spiritual growth often requires solitude, reflection, and obedience before proclamation.

This verse reminds us that not every blessing is meant for display. Some are meant to deepen our intimacy with God, to anchor us before we speak. In a world that urges us to broadcast every breakthrough, Jesus invites us to walk quietly with Him, letting the miracle mature in our hearts.

🙏 Today’s Prayer:

Lord God, thank You for the quiet miracles You work in my life. Teach me to value obedience over recognition, and reflection over reaction. Help me to discern when to speak and when to be still. May my walk with You be marked by humility, trust, and a deepening faith that doesn’t need applause to grow. In Jesus' name, Amen.

🌿 Held Through Every Step

2025-09-08T18:00:00.004-04:00

📖 Today’s Scripture

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholds him with His hand.”

—Psalm 37:23–24 (KJV)

💭 Thoughts

There’s comfort in knowing that our journey isn’t random. Every step—whether confident strides or trembling pauses—is seen and guided by the Lord. This passage reminds us that even when we stumble, we’re not abandoned. God doesn’t just watch from afar; He reaches down and holds us steady.

For believers and leaders, inside and outside of your home, who carry the weight of decisions, transitions, and advocacy, this verse is a gentle reminder: you’re not walking alone. The missteps don’t define you. The One who delights in your path also defends it. His hand is not just beneath you—it’s wrapped around you.

So today, if you feel uncertain about a direction or weary from the climb, remember: your steps are ordered. Your falls are cushioned. And your purpose is protected.

🙏 Today’s Prayer

Lord, thank You for being the steady hand beneath my feet. When I falter, You don’t shame me—you lift me. Help me walk with confidence, knowing that You delight in my journey. Guide my decisions, renew my strength, and remind me that even in the unknown, I am held. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2025-06-12T07:23:00.000-04:00

Loosen the Neck, Soften the Heart

Today's Scripture

“You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit!” — Acts 7:51 (NIV)

In Scripture, the term stiff-necked describes someone unwilling to be led—stubborn, resistant, and hard-hearted. In Acts 7:51, Stephen confronts the religious leaders, telling them they resist the Holy Spirit just like their ancestors did. Being “stiff-necked” originally referred to oxen that refused to respond to their farmer’s guidance. Rather than yielding to the prod that would steer them toward productivity, they resisted—even if it meant hurting themselves in the process.

How often do we do the same? We feel the Spirit’s nudge to forgive, release control, or take a leap of faith—but we stiffen our hearts, plant our feet, and say no. God desires a tender, teachable heart. He doesn’t force us to follow Him—but He does invite us to. The question is, are we willing to turn?

Reflection Questions:

Is there an area where you’re resisting God’s leadership?
What would it look like to loosen your neck and follow?
Who or what helps soften your heart toward obedience?

Today's Prayer

Heavenly Father, Forgive me for being stubborn when You are calling me to trust. Loosen my neck, soften my heart, and tune my ears to Your voice. Lead me in the way everlasting, and make me quick to follow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

2025-05-25T12:02:00.002-04:00

The Time of Favor Is Now

Scripture:

“This is what the LORD says: 'In the time of favor I will answer You, and in the day of salvation I will help You; I will keep You and appoint You to be a covenant for the people, to restore the land, to apportion its desolate inheritances.’” — Isaiah 49:8 (NIV)

“…to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor and the day of our God’s vengeance, to comfort all who mourn.” — Isaiah 61:2 (NIV)

Have you ever felt like God was silent during your season of struggle? Like your prayers echoed into a void, unanswered and unnoticed? If so, Isaiah 49:8 and Isaiah 61:2 offer a powerful reminder: God’s timing is not delayed—it is divine.

In Isaiah 49:8, God promises that in the time of favor, He will answer. This verse is not only about a moment in Israel’s history, but it also reflects a deeper truth about God's heart for restoration. The “time of favor” is not random; it is appointed—a divinely orchestrated moment when heaven responds with help, healing, and hope.

God doesn’t just promise to answer; He promises to keep, appoint, restore, and apportion what was once desolate. He sees the barren places in your life. He knows the dreams that feel dead, the relationships that seem broken beyond repair, and the spiritual weariness that weighs heavy. And in His time—His year of favor—He brings life to what was lost.

Isaiah 61:2 echoes this theme, declaring a season where God brings both justice and comfort. God’s vengeance isn't about wrath against us, but about making right what has been wrong. It’s the flipping of tables in our favor. It’s the comfort given to all who mourn. It’s the lifting of the weary soul.

Maybe you’re in a place of waiting today. If so, take heart: God's favor isn’t distant—it’s present. Jesus came as the fulfillment of these very promises. In Luke 4:21, He declared that “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” The time of favor has come. Because of Christ, we live in the reality of God’s grace, restoration, and comfort.

Reflection Questions:

What “desolate inheritances” in your life need restoring?
How have you seen God's favor in unexpected ways?
In what ways can you proclaim God's comfort to someone who is mourning?

Prayer:

Father, thank You for Your perfect timing. Thank You for appointing Jesus as the fulfillment of every promise and for the assurance that You are restoring what has been broken. Help me to trust in Your favor, even when I can’t see the full picture. Use me to be a messenger of Your comfort and hope in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

2024-10-20T08:10:00.003-04:00

Pride Comes Before the Fall – Embracing a Renewed Mind

Scripture Reference:

"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." – Proverbs 16:18 (NIV)

In a world that places such a heavy emphasis on identity—whether it's physical appearance, mental fortitude, or emotional expression—pride can often take root. Our culture encourages us to craft identities that are seen, admired, and envied. We define ourselves by our success, beauty, intellect, or even by our struggles and the labels society offers us. While knowing who we are is important, there is a danger in becoming too fixated on our own sense of self. The Bible warns us that pride comes before the fall. It happens when our identity becomes so wrapped in ourselves that we leave no room for God to guide and reshape us.

The Danger of Pride in Identity

In this age of self-branding and endless pursuit of validation, pride can creep in unnoticed. When we focus solely on who we are in the eyes of others, or even in our own estimation, we risk becoming blind to our need for God. We elevate our own abilities, achievements, and personal identity to the point that God’s sovereignty is overshadowed. Proverbs 16:18 reminds us that pride leads to destruction, not only because of arrogance but also because it creates a barrier between us and the transforming work God seeks to do in our hearts.

Joyce Meyer’s Battlefield of the Mind speaks powerfully to the significance of controlling our thoughts and the war that wages in our minds. She teaches that the thoughts we entertain directly impact our actions and ultimately shape our lives. When our minds are filled with pride, comparison, or even insecurity, we allow the enemy to take ground. But when we surrender our thoughts to God and allow Him to renew our minds, we step into freedom. Romans 12:2 encourages us not to conform to the patterns of this world, but to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

The Power of a Changed Mind

There is incredible power in a changed mind. The world may push us to obsess over self-identity—over who we are physically, mentally, or emotionally—but God calls us to find our true identity in Him. The transformation begins when we take control of our thoughts and submit them to Christ. As we allow God to renew our minds, pride diminishes, and humility takes its place. We begin to understand that our worth is not in our accomplishments or in how others perceive us, but in being children of God, made in His image.

When we focus on who God says we are, rather than who society says we should be, our minds shift. We experience the freedom that comes from resting in His love, grace, and purpose for our lives. This freedom protects us from the downfall that pride brings. As Joyce Meyer writes, the mind is where battles are won or lost. When we discipline ourselves to think according to God’s truth, we find peace, victory, and purpose beyond the world’s definition of identity.

Taking Control of Your Thoughts

If you find yourself overwhelmed by society’s pressure to fit into a mold or define yourself based on the latest trends, remember that God has already called you by name. You are His, and He desires to renew your mind so that you walk in the fullness of who He created you to be.

How do we take control of our thoughts?

Daily Surrender: Start each day by surrendering your thoughts to God. Ask Him to guard your mind and to renew your perspective.

Meditate on Scripture: Fill your mind with God’s Word. The more you meditate on His truth, the easier it becomes to reject the lies of pride, fear, and insecurity.

Be Mindful of What You Consume: The media, conversations, and environments you expose yourself to can shape your thinking. Be intentional about what you allow into your mind and spirit.

Pray for Humility: Pride is a natural inclination for all of us. Pray regularly for a humble heart, recognizing that all you are and have is by the grace of God.

In a society obsessed with self, may we choose to humble ourselves before the Lord, knowing that pride leads to destruction, but a renewed mind leads to life and peace. Let us seek to find our identity in Christ, the only One who gives us true worth, and walk in the freedom of a mind that is set on Him.

Prayer:

Lord, I surrender my mind and my identity to You. In a world that encourages pride and self-obsession, help me to find my worth in You alone. Renew my mind daily and guide my thoughts so that I may walk humbly in Your will. Keep me from the fall that pride brings, and remind me that my true identity is as Your beloved child. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2023-07-04T09:06:00.007-04:00

4th of July Poem: Freedom's Call

On this day of freedom's call,

Amidst the cheers and fireworks' sprawl,

Let's remember the One who gives us grace,

Our Savior, whose love we embrace.

In the land of red, white, and blue,

With hearts united, faithful and true,

We celebrate the birth of a nation so grand,

Guided by God's merciful hand.

As we honor the flag, so proudly unfurled,

Let's pray for peace that will traverse the world,

For on this 4th of July, we comprehend,

The freedom we cherish, from Him does descend.

So, let our joy be joined with divine delight,

As we worship, reflect, and shine His light,

In this blessed land, where liberty resides,

God's grace forever, our spirits guide.

God bless you. And God bless America!

War in the Spirit

2022-06-02T20:31:00.000-04:00

There is a war waging. Many cannot see it, because of spiritual blindness. The darkness has covered the earth and the war wages on all around us. These are the times when we must have spiritual senses that are in tune with the Holy Spirit. Our prayer should be for God to give us eyes that see and ears that hear. We should also pray to receive the Spirit of Discernment. It is going to take the Holy Spirit to help us discern good from evil.

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has taught that the gift of discernment can help us (1) “detect hidden error and evil in others,” (2) “detect hidden errors and evil in ourselves,” (3) “find and bring forth the good that may be concealed in others,” and (4) “find and bring forth the good that may be concealed in us” (“Quick to Observe,” Liahona, Dec. 2006, 19).

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12)

The hearts of men are corrupt and evil in this day, as if they are the walking dead. They move about from place to place as if they are wandering aimlessly. Many come and go and it does not appear there is a reason for all the migration and movement. It appears to have no meaning or thought about the purpose of the journey from here to there.

And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it. (Amos 8:12)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to be vigilant and watchful in this day and time on earth. There are many passages and warnings that we need to heed, in a world that is darkened with greed and many needs. I pray you soften hardened hearts so that we can perceive the leading of the Holy Spirit now more than ever. Help me to keep my gaze fixed on Jesus and my ears ever open to Your Word of truth, for Your Word is life and light, health and wholeness. Thank You that You did not give up on Israel, and thank You that You will never give up on me. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Understanding the Times

2020-09-11T08:25:00.002-04:00

“And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.” (1 Chronicles 12:32)

This chapter lists the numbers of men from each of the tribes of Israel who cast their lot with David in his conflict with King Saul. All these numbers are given except those of Issachar, but of these it was said that all their brethren followed their 200 leaders in turning to David. The reason for their unanimity in this decision was that these leaders “had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do.” It was time to “turn the kingdom” to David, “according to the word of the LORD” (1 Chronicles 12:23). God had given them a Benjamite, Saul, as king for a time, but now David had been anointed, and it was the time to give “the sceptre” to Judah, according to the prophecy of their father, Jacob, given over 600 years before (Genesis 49:10).

How desperately we need leaders today who are spiritual “sons of Issachar,” understanding these times! Christ told the apostles: “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons” (Acts 1:7); it was more urgent that they proceed to witness for Him “unto the uttermost part of the earth” (v. 8).

Nevertheless, He would return to the earth in some generation, and that generation should be expected (when they would see all these things) to “know that it is near, even at the doors” (Matthew 24:33). They could understand the signs, and even though they should never attempt to guess the date, they could “look up...for your redemption draweth nigh” (Luke 21:28) when they would see “these things begin to come to pass.”

The signs are everywhere, yet few of our leaders—even many Christian politicians—seem to understand the real meaning of these times. Christ is “even at the doors!” HMM (Institute for Creation Research)

Good Affliction

2020-06-03T08:57:00.000-04:00

“It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.” (Psalm 119:71)

This seems like a strange testimony. Affliction is often accompanied by complaining or discouragement, but seldom by a statement of satisfaction and thankfulness such as in our text for today.

Nevertheless, in terms of the long-range goal of character development, afflictions are often good for us, helping to make us more Christ-like and preparing us for our ministry of service to Him in the age to come (Revelation 22:3), if only we profit from them and submit to them as we should.

“Before I was afflicted I went astray,” testifies the psalmist, “but now have I kept thy word.…This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me” (Psalm 119:67, 50). Such testimonies have been echoed innumerable times throughout the centuries as godly men and women have drawn closer to the Lord through His comforting Word during times of affliction than they ever were during times of ease.

In fact, afflictions often draw even the unsaved to the Lord. They would never come when things are going well, but many do come when in times of sorrow or rejection they are forced to the end of their resources. It is then that “godly sorrow [literally ‘sorrow from God’] worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of” (2 Corinthians 7:10).

As for those instances when God’s people suffered in ancient times, it was said: “In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them” (Isaiah 63:9). Although no such affliction “for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby” (Hebrews 12:11). (HMM - Institution for Creation Research)

God's Phone Number

2020-01-19T08:47:00.000-05:00

Jeremiah 33:3 is known in the Enduring Word Bible Commentary as the promise from prison. Our modern day prisons are true, but some today are imprisoned to debt, status, titles, sexual immorality, and idolatry. We idolize and try to be live like those on reality shows. We spend money like we are on reality shows also. All who suffer from this imprisonment also suffer from anxiety, depression, and loneliness.

This scripture is a way to begin again. Calling on the Lord and asking Him to show you great and unsearchable things you did not know is the first step towards freedom. Great and mighty things are spoken of in Jeremiah 33: 1-3. They are the great things that bring freedom and restoration.

Moreover the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah a second time, while he was still shut up in the court of the prison, saying, “Thus says the LORD who made it, the LORD who formed it to establish it (the LORD is His name): ‘Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know."

Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know: God invited Jeremiah and all who heard to come to Him in faith-filled prayer, confident of His answer. This promise is especially remarkable considering the circumstances: enduring the terror of a siege and the soon fulfillment of promised judgment. As the judgment was even at the door, God spoke of word of hope and invitation and faith to Jeremiah and Jerusalem. He is still speaking to you today.

i. “He cries to us, Call unto Me, call unto me. Little prayer, little blessing; more prayer, more blessings; much prayer, much blessing.” (Meyer)

ii. Mighty things: “The MT besurot (RSVhidden things) usually means ‘that which is inaccessible’, and here that which is beyond the normal reach of human knowledge.” (Harrison)

iii. “The things to be revealed are ‘unsearchable’ (basur, literally, ‘inaccessible’) because they are beyond the grasp of human knowledge. The principle adjective basur is used of the strongly fortified cities of Canaan in Deuteronomy 1:28 (‘walled up’); here it refers to matters so far beyond human insight that they require divine revelation.” (Feinberg)

God's number is never busy. He always answers. All you have to do is call and wait for Him to answer you. The first step is to surrender and then give Him a ring.

The Power of One

2019-12-31T20:05:00.004-05:00

God created one man, Adam, and from the one man one woman, Eve.

One act of disobedience caused all of mankind to suffer spiritual and physical death.

One brother, Cain, killed another, Abel, and caused the ground to be cursed.

One man, Noah, heard the voice of God and saved his righteous seed and animals.

One man, Abraham, believed and it was counted unto him as righteousness through faith.

One man, Moses, spoke with God and was used to lead a people out of captivity.

One prostitute, Rahab, had mercy on Joshua's spies and is in the lineage of the Messiah.

One woman, Mary, heeded and accepted the call from God and gave birth to a

divine seed called the Messiah Jesus.

One day on a cross and Jesus died or our sins.

One day in a tomb and Jesus rose from the dead and defeated sin and death.

One person can save their soul and live in eternity by crying out and asking Jesus to rule and reign in their life.

One cry can be the difference between eternal life evermore and the finality of death.

One believer can preach by giving their personal testimony to a non-believer about the Good News of a Savior named Jesus who is a deliverer and life-giver.

New Year's Eve 2019

2019-12-31T19:43:00.000-05:00

The eve of 2020 comes with anticipation of new hopes, dreams, and expectations in the New Year. For many 2019, was a hard year. From first hand experience, there were separations, divorces, job losses, sickness, and death. None of that was expected or wanted, but the devastation to the hearts, minds, and spirits of the people experiencing trials and tribulations were very real and painful.

January is not just a time of resolutions (that we break the first week). It is a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. The month is always dedicated to a fast for my family. We invite friends and family to join us as we resolve to lean into our God - the Most High - and expect Him to move mightily on our behalf. We believe that fasting and praying will help us grow closer to God and open our eyes to all that God has for us on earth, as it is in heaven. This year, we are praying for the Issachar anointing so we know what to do in all times and situations.

Of the sons of Issachar, men who understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their kinsmen were at their command.
(1 Chronicles 12:32 - New American Standard Bible)

The sons of Issachar were able to discern what God was doing and when He was doing it.

They also knew when one move of God was ending and another one was beginning. May we be so strong in the spirit of discernment that every plot, plan, and scheme of the enemy is revealed and God's purpose is fulfilled in, around, and through us.

Prayer is the weapon we will use to usher in the anointing of the Holy Spirit. My prayer is that we are so filled with the Holy Spirit and our anointing is so strong that we understand the times and have knowledge of what to do in 2020. While the world may be divided, I pray my brothers and sisters in Christ are so anointed that we are bridge builders between the great divide in the nation. I pray we stand in the gap for our families, communities, and nation. I pray we are fully aware of God's calling and purpose for our lives and that we are blessed and a blessing to others for the up building of God's kingdom.

2020 in Strong's Hebrew Concordance is הַצָּלָה and it means deliverance or escape. This is the time for scales to be removed from our eyes and for God to reveal Jesus to us afresh. This is the time for bondage and strongholds to be shattered so they are never put back together. This is the time for captives to be set free. Ask God to be all that the Bible says he is... a deliverer, a healer, a refuge, and strong high-tower.

According to your word in Isaiah 60:1, Father God, cause each of Your children to shine brightly in this dark land, Lord, let our light take it’s place on a lamp stand and draw others to You. May those without Christ see Jesus at work in us in all we do and everywhere we go. Raise up end-times warriors who pray and praise to usher in the Holy Spirit from our house to the White House. We pray that many will come to know You and confess You as Lord in 2020 and beyond. Forgive us of our sins and turn us back to You and a nation who praises Your son the Messiah. In Jesus' name. AMEN!

2018 This is Me Women's Conference

2018-11-18T07:53:00.005-05:00

For the first time, I hosted a women's conference in Monroe, North Carolina. The planning started in my head in the beginning of the year and I didn't think I could pull it off. There was a spiritual war waged to get me to cancel the conference. But the grace of God, me and a team of volunteers pulled it off. By grace of God, we pulled it off. I am so proud of everyone you had the courage to show up and for those who had the courage to speak up. Your courage has allowed God to work in your life and His ministering spirits, angels, are battling in the heavens on your behalf. Keep praying and pursuing God's best for your life. Today, I lose blessings and God's justice in, around, and through your lives in the name of Jesus. Amen.

The agenda started with the Romans 8 life. Because there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, we should not feel guilt, shame, and condemnation. We are set free from the law and now live under grace. We may not always do everything right, but we have a High Priest we can go to, repent of our sins and be forgiven forever - past, present and future. God is good “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28. Because of this truth, we know that when we are faced with trials and tribulations, we are more than conquerors through Jesus.

Our special guest was Pastor/Elder Tembila Covington of Crossing Red Seas Ministries in Rockingham, NC. What a powerful women of God she is and blessed according to His riches in heaven! She divinely unpacked Isaiah 61:1-3 and proclaimed the good news to all the women in attendance. She set captives free just by releasing God's Holy Word in the room and surely the Lord was in the place.

We ended the conference with 10 minute testimonials from a group of multi-generational group of ladies with phenomenal stories. I am so thankful for Deneer Davis, Jennifer Pickron, Sharleen Sawyer, Pamela Liles, and Doris Wolfe. They shared their life and how Jesus and impacted them, carried them, saved them, and lives in and through them now. To God be the glory forever and ever. Amen

The Year of the Lord's Favor is Now

2018-10-07T10:50:00.000-04:00

Isaiah 61 is the exaltation of the afflicted. This book of the Bible is the word of the Lord declared by the prophet Isaiah. If ever we needed to be exalted from affliction, it is now. Affliction is great suffering. These times are perilous [dangerous, risky, grievous, threatening and serious] and it is in these times we need a savior. A savior is one who redeems, restores, delivers and rescues us. If these are the last days and times, we all must humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God and declare this year, and at this time, this is the acceptable year of the Lord. The time in which we repent and pray for Jesus to be our one and only Lord and Savior. In doing so, we must also submit our body, mind, will, spirit, and soul to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

Isaiah, the prophet, had the power of the Holy Spirit to teach and guide him in word and deed. We need the Holy Spirit to do the same for us and we won't have that until we accept Jesus and are baptized. After that, the Holy Spirit is given at the moment of salvation (Ephesians 1:13). Galatians 3:2 emphasizes this same truth, saying the sealing and indwelling of the Spirit took place at the time of believing. The Holy Spirit indwells believers permanently. The Holy Spirit is given to believers as a down payment, or verification of their future glorification in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 4:30).

We should be so completely yielded to the Holy Spirit that He can possess us fully and, in that sense, fill us. Romans 8:9 and Ephesians 1:13-14 states that He dwells within every believer, but He can be grieved (Ephesians 4:30), and His activity within us can be quenched (1 Thessalonians 5:19). When we allow this to happen, we do not experience the fullness of the Spirit's working and His power in and through us.

Let's declare today to be the acceptable year of the Lord. Let's declare that although the times are perilous and dark, we will be like the Israelites and light will shine wherever we dwell according to Exodus 10:23.

WE STILL CANNOT BE SATISFIED

2018-01-17T11:54:00.003-05:00

January 17, 2018

Pray that justice will roll “down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.”

“But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!” (Amos 5:24 NIV)

Martin Luther King, Jr. was a dreamer. He saw what others could not see. He heard what others did not hear. He felt what others did not feel. Therefore, he did what others were not willing to do.

King understood any form of racism defies the dignity of human life. That is why, in the midst of racial injustice and division in America, he dreamed about a day in our nation when “justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.” His quote of Amos 5:24 mirrored the heart of a prophet who in his own day was witness to injustice and inequality. But King’s interpretation of the text was tinged with a sense of holy dissatisfaction.

Standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, he framed it this way: “No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.”

Most of us remember MLK’s 1963 speech by its most famous theme—“I Have a Dream”—but King was much more than a dreamer. What made him one of the most consequential figures of the 20th century was his insatiable desire for biblical justice. This desire would end up costing him his life, but his dream of biblical justice in America would live on. It still lives on today.

Reflecting upon this history, I’m moved to humility and repentance.

We are not black churches. We are not white churches. We are not Latino churches. We are not Asian churches. We are the church of Jesus Christ. We are members of the same body. In the true church of Jesus Christ, the walls of racism and injustice come down….

Our goal is not political or even racial, but biblical. We must not, we cannot, be satisfied until, as Amos said, “justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.”

It’s past time for racial unity in America. We’ve decided to be united. (Excerpts from Ronnie Floyd’s article in ChurchLeaders.com)

Training for the New Year

2018-01-01T07:29:00.002-05:00

Fear Not, Faint Not

2017-12-09T09:37:00.000-05:00

There are two versions of truth to every situation. In a situation that has turned bad, we look at it first through eyes of fear. At that point, we can decide to face down the fear and fight or run to a place that feels more secure or safe. Every situation has two sides and two outcomes. One is of hope to return to something call normal and the other is of despair that leads to something or someone dying. What you decide to do with and in your situation is determined either by faith or fear.

Fear tells you the situation is hopeless and there is no need to continue fighting. Fear is the dark shadow land that works to get you so far down in despair that you cannot see the light (truth). Fear ultimately will take over to cripple you mind, body, spirit and soul. Fear weakens you until you cannot fight physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually.

Faith is a light of hope. Faith tells you no matter how big the giant is, all giants come under the authority of God Almighty. Faith tells you that He who lives in you is greater than He who that is in and of this world.

“Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” — 1 John 4:4, ESV

We all, at some time or another, will end up in troubled waters and storms. Our outlook on the situation will determine the outcome of the situation. Decided if you will fight and retreat in the corner. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "Life is a journey; not a destination". I bet he read the Bible to understand that we are on a pilgrimage in this earth. Vessels used to fight the unseen spiritual war for souls until the return of Christ. Each day we have an opportunity to be ministers of the Gospel of Peace, warriors like David who fought against Goliath, leaders like Noah and Moses who through hearing and obeying were blessed and blessed the land with generations of believers who followed them.

Speak peace to every storm or situation and fight so that onlookers will see, understand and gain hope through your actions, as well as know who you are in the Kingdom. But first, know who your and whose you are if you decide to fight for your life. You are a child of the Most High God and a joint-heir with Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:17, Ephesian 3:6, Hebrews 11:9, 1 Peter 3:7)

"But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." — Philippians 3:20, ESV

Faint Not

2017-12-09T08:48:00.002-05:00

“For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” (Hebrews 12:3)

The Christian life and ministry can grow wearisome and hard at times, but with Christ Himself as our example, the Lord admonishes us not to faint but always to press on.

If our prayers seem to go unanswered, He reminds us that “men ought always to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1). When we grow tired and are tempted to quit, the Scriptures assure us that “in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9).

When God has entrusted us with a certain ministry, we need to learn to say, as with Paul, “Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not” (2 Corinthians 4:1). As we see God’s mercy-drops of blessing begin to fall, we then can say, as he did, “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16). We can even encourage others to faint not, as he did: “Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory” (Ephesians 3:13).

The same Greek word is translated “weary” in 2 Thessalonians 3:13: “Be not weary in well doing.” Finally, even when God has to rebuke us, we must learn to take it patiently. “Despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him” (Hebrews 12:5).

But with all these strong exhortations to faint not, we also need to know just how we can obtain the needed strength to keep on keeping on. The answer is in God’s great counsel to Isaiah: “They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). HMM (Institute for Creation Research)

TAKING A STAND

2017-10-01T09:20:00.002-04:00

TAKING A STAND

Last weekend, President Trump tweeted his disagreement with the decision of football players to not stand during the national anthem, thus sparking a new level of controversy throughout the NFL.

FILED UNDER: PRESIDENT

Baseball has held the longstanding title of “America’s pastime,” but it can be argued that football has taken its place as a prominent cultural movement in the U.S. Each week, millions of Americans tune in to watch their favorite teams compete, either by viewing them on TV or by attending a game in person. However, in recent days, the football field has found itself at the center of a conflict that surpasses the usual team rivalry.

What began as one player choosing to express his dissatisfaction with issues in our country by sitting during the national anthem before games has now become a question of patriotism – and this has caught the president’s attention. Last weekend, President Trump tweeted his disagreement with the decision of football players to not stand during the national anthem, thus sparking a new level of controversy throughout the NFL.

One side feels that it is a player’s right to free speech that allows them to sit or kneel during the national anthem, with some veterans even speaking up to confirm that this is a right they have fought for. The other side believes that refusing to stand for the anthem is a blatant disrespect to the country and to those who protect our freedoms both overseas and here at home. The bottom line is that America is facing issues that have the potential to deeply divide us. What was once a game that allowed those with different backgrounds – racial, ethnic, political, social – to be united with one goal behind their team, has now been injected with a double-edged political blade.

This country has always thrived when has been united. This country needs to feel God's presence, and the best response for each of us is prayer.

Sources: Twitter, USA Today

As the Lord Leads, please pray:

Pray that God will restore unity to our country
Pray for compassion and empathy, and that both sides would be receptive to the concerns of the other
Pray for wisdom for President Trump as he navigates his involvement in this difficult situation

Pray for America

2017-10-01T09:18:00.002-04:00

Sunday, October 01, 2017

President Trump spent much of the day Saturday speaking with the governors of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands in preparation for his visit. He will continue to plan for the upcoming trip and meet with leaders regarding aid for the recovery efforts.

The president voiced his frustration at news agencies for not fairly covering the relief efforts of FEMA, military personnel, and others. This trend has plagued past administrations as well. President Bush was criticized for how the government responded after Katrina and many disapproved of Obama’s handling of Sandy. Today, President Trump said that he is preparing for the tough job at hand and is making decisions to help millions of desperate people. In such no-win scenarios, the job of president becomes unimaginably difficult.

As the Lord Leads, please pray:

For the president as he has to make tough decisions in the midst of criticism
For the people of Puerto Rico as they are still in desperate need.
For all aid workers as they work to rebuild.

We provide these suggested prayer items to help you intercede for our president and the issues our commander-in-chief faces each day. We trust that you will also pray for all our leaders, asking for God's wisdom and for His will to be done.” – The Presidential Prayer Team

Cancel My Subscription

2017-05-07T08:39:00.005-04:00

Each day presents a unique opportunity for us all. We are making decisions, completing tasks and doing our best to help those in need. The busyness of life juggling work, kids, events, and for some parents, is enough to have your head spinning. In the midst of that, you will always have some around who is sent to suck the life out of you with their meaningless issues. They will go on and on about how life isn't fair. We know that and was taught at an early age that life isn't fair. Where were they when that information was being handed out? They will consume you with not having enough - shoes, purses, vacations. It all boils down to stuff and I really don't care about stuff. I was taught there are starving kids around the world and NOW in the United States. So, why would I care to hear you whine about another purse or pair of shoes?

Here is a challenge to all who are focused on yourselves. Each time you think about your personal, superficial needs and wants; say a prayer for all the social issues we have in the United States and around the world. Pray for leadership in your community, state and the nation. Pray for the thousands upon thousands of children abandoned and placed in foster care in the United States, because their parent are either dead or caught in the epidemic called drug addiction. Pray for the famine, pestilence and diseases taking lives. Pray for the persecuted church (Christians) around the world, as many are being slaughtered for saying they are Christ followers. How's that for freedom of religion? Ask God to forgive you for being so self-centered that you forgot there was a suffering world and as an inhabitant of His earth we should be Christ's hands, feet, eyes, ears - The Body - that loves ourselves correctly, our neighbors compassionately and our God in high regard with thanksgiving in all things.

Romans 12:12 - Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer.

1 Peter 5:10 - 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].

1 Thessalonians 5:18 - in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Propaganda and Truth

2017-03-18T17:09:00.000-04:00

Propaganda is information, ideas, or rumors deliberately spread widely to help or arm harm a person, group, movement, institution or nations. The deliberate spreading of such information or rumors. The particular doctrines or principles propagated by an organization or movement. What seems to be happening daily is a lot of propaganda. The news is not important to me, because I do not believe there is truth in what is being reported. There are, however, views and opinions of something that happened. Two people can look at one situation and tell two different stories about what actually happened and both could possibly be wrong. Until you know a person's heart, it is hard to get to truth. Christians should be deliberate about mercy and grace; while understanding we live in a world where people make mistakes every day. We all have made mistakes and it is our duty to give the grace we hope to receive one day.

Years ago, we stopped watching the news (CNN, FOX). We asked why tune in and watch the news when we know it is for ratings and entertainment? A lot of what you see on the news in these United States is a cause for concern. The protests and uprisings are stirred up by the media, as well as people sent to incite riots. What is reported is the opinion of the network or otherwise biased. Ordinary people are sitting at home making a decision about the president, country and people. There is more propaganda now than ever before. News is entertainment and a kin to reality shows where what you see is orchestrated (by cutting and snipping sentences and stringing together words) to incite riots and divide the nation's people. I am convinced I would hate absolutely everyone if I watched the news everyday, so I choose not to watch it and just treat everyone the way I want to be treated. What would happen if we turned off the news and prayed for our country and its leadership?

I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. Psalm 101:3

Father God, I declare and decree that revival is breaking out in the United States of America, from the White House, to my house. I declare that the purifying fire of the Holy Spirit is sweeping across the United States of America and men and women and children everywhere are turning their hearts to righteousness and holiness and are seeking the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Renew our minds with Your truth and give our nation a fresh revelation of Jesus' sacrificial love for us. I declare and decree we are One Nation Under God in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen!

Are You Perpetuating Racism

2017-03-01T07:10:00.000-05:00

The presidential election caused an array of emotions and chaos in our country. There are a lot of feeling and emotions that may be misplaced as Americans were caught up in past elections "hope" and "change". It is to be noted that there were a lot of disappointments the last eight years. While the thought of hope and change sounds good, not everyone felt that hope and the change was not all good. The current change in the presidential office may not seem like hope to some, but the majority spoke through the electoral process. That fact cannot be denied though many have decided to pretend the process did not work. We should be reminded that our founding fathers made changes, took a stand and prayed for the direction the nations should take to see change. The final word was One Nation Under God.

After reflecting on the presidential election, many questions came to mind. A few are questions that should be asked by Americans. Americans are isolated, because if you are a citizen of this country or trying to be a citizen of this country, your first responsibility is to understand the foundation of the nation and the laws that govern. We must all seek to understand and be understood in the same light. Understanding come through intellectual conversations, questions and answers. Likewise, we should be ensuring a balance of power between the people and the government. If this is supposed to be of the people and by the people, we share the responsibility for the outcome of the nation. The government is not our Savior, but a partner. We should also understand America was founded by righteous men [by faith] upon Judeo-Christian principles. Bible law was built into the laws of the land.

Here are a few questions that come to mind as a concerned citizen thinking about justice for all.

Has the government (for decades) perpetuated the very thing leaders like Martin Luther King, Jr. and John F. Kennedy fought and died to eradicate?

Why is it important for us to check boxes about race, gender and military status?

Maybe we are assisting the government in maintaining our differences to perpetuate racism and all other isms and biases. If we decide the box is not important to do our jobs, maybe we could get focused on talents, skills, abilities and "content of character". While segregation was abolished with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, we are currently segregated in many ways and that segregation perpetuates the "isms" across all categories.

If racism is on the hearts and the minds of most people of color, why do you continue to check boxes when you apply for jobs or at the request of the government ?

A resume contains all the information needed for an employer to make a decision about whether or not a candidate has the prerequisite requirements and experience for the vacancy posted. Whether or not the candidate is white, black, female, male or veteran is not in the job description or experience required. Maybe supplying that information allows the system to discriminate versus use the credential provided to correctly screen and assess candidates.

Are you (or allowing the government) perpetuating what most Americans say they want to put an end to in the United States by continuing to check boxes?

Ezekiel 45:9
Thus says the Lord GOD, "Enough, you princes of Israel; put away violence and destruction, and practice justice and righteousness. Stop your expropriations from My people," declares the Lord GOD.

Micah 6:8
He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?

Amos 5:24
But let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.