1 Samuel 15:22 But Samuel replied, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams."
How many times have each of us decided we know more than God, and better than God for our lives? Sadly, many of us will only do part of what God instructs us to do instead of what He has fully instructed us to do. Instructions can come from hearing and reading, but what about a lifestyle of obedience that happens when we strive to not only hear, and read, but also live obediently? It often proves challenging to follow each and every Word God instructs for our lives in this fast-paced, electronically driven, social network entrenched, human touch*less* society, but whom and what we follow determines our output and outcome.
A special person in my life, always says, "God does not yell!" In other words, God is not in competition with FB, Twitter, smart phones, life, work, and whatever else may occupy and command our undivided attention. God is not going to scream above the business of our life to get our attention when our focus should remain completely fixated on Him. The Hebrew word for hear is shama. The word translated also means to listen or to obey. When we take this simple word and internalize it, it is easy to see how hearing, listening, and obedience become a lifestyle of "doing".
Recently, I have been giving more attention to a certain areas of my life. *Disclaimer* The Spirit spoke to me CLEARLY about this same situation several months ago and laid it out bare saying , “THIS is why you are where you are!” Mind you, I kept saying to myself, I wonder why this situation is the way it is...Again, the Spirit, a little stronger said, “Again, Precious, THIS is why, you are in this place.” It was not until a person, a living breathing, full-blooded person TOLD me in a not so nice way that I became aware that I had been directly disobedient to God. That broke my heart!!! I do not desire to be the person James labels a "mere hearer" and deceive myself.
Disobedience BLOCKS God's best in our lives. Period! What if Abraham was disobedient at any point in what God told instructed him to do? What if Jesus failed to do what He KNEW was His primary assignment? Sacrifices lead to death, but obedience leads to life. Has God whispered something into your spirit that He has given you instructions on? I recommend you do it, and without further delay, because obedience always leads to God's best. If you are unsure of what the first instruction are, how appropriate the acronym for the Bible is "Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth."
Jeremiah 7:23
Matthew 7:24
James 4:4
James 1:22
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
Never Give Up
Daniel 6:16 "Your God , whom you serve continually, He will deliver you."
Daniel had an easy decision to make. He could either obey the edict King Darius issued, or continue to obey God. The road less traveled, or in Daniel's case, the lions den less entered is always full of surprises and unexpected outcomes. Of course we know what happens in one of the most famous Bible stories, but if you were Daniel, what would you have done? For that matter, what would I have done?
Don't feel pressured to answer that question, but it should at least cause us to examine our lives and wonder..."What would I do?" Daniel was able to accept whatever his end could have been because of his unwavering, undeniable, unrelenting, unmoving faith in God! Daniel knew that if there was going to be any way of escaping the mouth of starving lions, it could only come from his God. Notice, even King Darius had faith in God (v.6)! Allow me to raise the argument of how Daniel could even face such a trial. "Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, as he had done since the days of his youth."
As believers, it's not considered pious to desire a meaningful and strong prayer life, it should automatically be a part of our lifestyle. Prayer, and seeking God's face should not be burdensome or cumbersome; this is not something we only need to do, but what we desire to do. If prayer is the answer, then faith is the key that opens the door to having your prayers answered. Th old saints used to say, "There is trouble in the land." Consider the world your lions den, but before you enter unprepared and uncertain of what could happen, I urge you to follow the example of our brother from long ago and seek His face.
Daniel had an easy decision to make. He could either obey the edict King Darius issued, or continue to obey God. The road less traveled, or in Daniel's case, the lions den less entered is always full of surprises and unexpected outcomes. Of course we know what happens in one of the most famous Bible stories, but if you were Daniel, what would you have done? For that matter, what would I have done?
Don't feel pressured to answer that question, but it should at least cause us to examine our lives and wonder..."What would I do?" Daniel was able to accept whatever his end could have been because of his unwavering, undeniable, unrelenting, unmoving faith in God! Daniel knew that if there was going to be any way of escaping the mouth of starving lions, it could only come from his God. Notice, even King Darius had faith in God (v.6)! Allow me to raise the argument of how Daniel could even face such a trial. "Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, as he had done since the days of his youth."
As believers, it's not considered pious to desire a meaningful and strong prayer life, it should automatically be a part of our lifestyle. Prayer, and seeking God's face should not be burdensome or cumbersome; this is not something we only need to do, but what we desire to do. If prayer is the answer, then faith is the key that opens the door to having your prayers answered. Th old saints used to say, "There is trouble in the land." Consider the world your lions den, but before you enter unprepared and uncertain of what could happen, I urge you to follow the example of our brother from long ago and seek His face.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Where It All Began
Genesis 2:18 The Lord God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."
It is a brand new year, and like most people, you've made your resolutions. But again, like most people much of last years list may still be unresolved. What exactly is the purpose in setting out a resolution or plan? I believe there is a significant purpose in planning or purposing to do something.I once heard someone say, "If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail." There has to be order in everything. Look at how God created the universe, then Adam; both out of nothing, but yet with a plan in mind (Genesis 1:26). Out of all God created,and gave His stamp of "it was good" approval to, I believe His greatest accomplishment was when He created human beings in His own image.
Fellowship with God is the highest relationship any of us can have. There is also the relationship we have with ourselves, as well as others. In order to fully know who we are, we must know who God is. Why would God have taken the time and intricate thought to create us in His image? Who else did He want us to be like? Once we know and experience His love, we are able to fully love ourselves which will transcend to how we love others.
It is not good for people to be alone, and I just happen to agree there is a significant difference between being "alone" and "lonely." What is the difference between lonely and loneliness, when people spend much of their time isolated, and alone year after year? The difference is to ALWAYS remember who you are, and WHOSE you are. Who is more suitable for you than the One who holds your past, present, and future in His hands? God has something so tailored to fit His design for your life, it is going to blow your mind!!! (Ephesians 3:20) Whether you are married, or single, spend time developing a deeper relationship with God, yourself, and others. God wants to meet all your needs, and make your dreams come true! After all, you, yes YOU are created in His image; and the world is your oyster. Start 2011 off standing on your tippy toes, extending your arms out high with arms wide open and receive all that life has to offer as a child of the living God who made you in His image.
It is a brand new year, and like most people, you've made your resolutions. But again, like most people much of last years list may still be unresolved. What exactly is the purpose in setting out a resolution or plan? I believe there is a significant purpose in planning or purposing to do something.I once heard someone say, "If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail." There has to be order in everything. Look at how God created the universe, then Adam; both out of nothing, but yet with a plan in mind (Genesis 1:26). Out of all God created,and gave His stamp of "it was good" approval to, I believe His greatest accomplishment was when He created human beings in His own image.
Fellowship with God is the highest relationship any of us can have. There is also the relationship we have with ourselves, as well as others. In order to fully know who we are, we must know who God is. Why would God have taken the time and intricate thought to create us in His image? Who else did He want us to be like? Once we know and experience His love, we are able to fully love ourselves which will transcend to how we love others.
It is not good for people to be alone, and I just happen to agree there is a significant difference between being "alone" and "lonely." What is the difference between lonely and loneliness, when people spend much of their time isolated, and alone year after year? The difference is to ALWAYS remember who you are, and WHOSE you are. Who is more suitable for you than the One who holds your past, present, and future in His hands? God has something so tailored to fit His design for your life, it is going to blow your mind!!! (Ephesians 3:20) Whether you are married, or single, spend time developing a deeper relationship with God, yourself, and others. God wants to meet all your needs, and make your dreams come true! After all, you, yes YOU are created in His image; and the world is your oyster. Start 2011 off standing on your tippy toes, extending your arms out high with arms wide open and receive all that life has to offer as a child of the living God who made you in His image.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Checking In
Isaiah 30:1 “Woe to the rebellious children,” says the LORD,"Who take counsel, but not of Me,and who devise plans, but not of My Spirit,that they may add sin to sin."
Back in the eighties there was a movie my cousins and I watched over and over again, called "GhostBusters". While I don't remember many details about the film, I can vividly recall the theme song that said, "Who you gonna call? GhostBUSTERS!" Of course the film was fictitious, but everyday we are fighting "ghosts". For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities,against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against the spiritual forces in the high and heavenly places. Spiritual warfare is very real and extremely present in all believers lives, and in order to be successful, everyday make sure you are properly dressed.
Who do you consult or turn to when hell is breaking loose in your life? Is God your first line of defense or more like your last resort to "see" what God can do after everything and everybody has continually failed you? One of my favorite scriptures is," Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will trust in the name of our God".Jesus instructs us to seek ye first the Kingdom of God and then everything else will be added. In other words, put God first! Keep Him first in all areas of our lives especially in our plans because only His counsel will stand. Friends I submit to you before you make your next move no matter how insignificant you may think it is, check-in with God because He may have other plans for you.
Ephesians 6:10-18
Psalm 20:7
Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 19:21
Jeremiah 29:11
Back in the eighties there was a movie my cousins and I watched over and over again, called "GhostBusters". While I don't remember many details about the film, I can vividly recall the theme song that said, "Who you gonna call? GhostBUSTERS!" Of course the film was fictitious, but everyday we are fighting "ghosts". For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities,against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against the spiritual forces in the high and heavenly places. Spiritual warfare is very real and extremely present in all believers lives, and in order to be successful, everyday make sure you are properly dressed.
Who do you consult or turn to when hell is breaking loose in your life? Is God your first line of defense or more like your last resort to "see" what God can do after everything and everybody has continually failed you? One of my favorite scriptures is," Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will trust in the name of our God".Jesus instructs us to seek ye first the Kingdom of God and then everything else will be added. In other words, put God first! Keep Him first in all areas of our lives especially in our plans because only His counsel will stand. Friends I submit to you before you make your next move no matter how insignificant you may think it is, check-in with God because He may have other plans for you.
Ephesians 6:10-18
Psalm 20:7
Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 19:21
Jeremiah 29:11
Monday, May 24, 2010
Testing 1,2,3
Who keeps our soul among the living,and does not allow our feet to be moved. For You, O God, have tested us; You have refined us as silver is refined. You brought us into the net; You laid affliction on our backs. You have caused men to ride over our heads;We went through fire and through water; But You brought us out to rich fulfillment.
The testing of our faith always produces testimony and while we may not like the test, we can usually look back and appreciate it. I can't speak for the world, but many people would probably say they wouldn't trade their "testing/refining" period in their lives for anything. The reflection period of pain, dreams deferred, of hopelessness during a low period in our lives often produces faith and character. It bring everything in us out of us to show what we're really made of.
The psalmist is praising God for not only testing but that during the process,He kept him. I hear the hymn "Oh To Be Kept by Jesus" in my mind as I type. The refiners fire is almost unbearable because it is a purging process purifying our hearts, minds, and souls. These parts of our lives should remain as pure as possible since we must love God with all three. Jesus said it was the greatest and foremost commandment.
No matter what you're facing that has your back up against the wall, we can rest assured that God not only is with us every step of the way; but He will bring us out! He will not only bring us out, but it will be to a place of rich fulfillment; better than you could've dreamed or planned for yourself. Our trails and testimonies are precious to Him during the shaping periods and will be encouragement to our Christian brothers and sisters who may entering a trial, currently in one, or coming out. Don't focus on your test, but your testimony which has RICH fulfillment.
Mark 22:36-38
The testing of our faith always produces testimony and while we may not like the test, we can usually look back and appreciate it. I can't speak for the world, but many people would probably say they wouldn't trade their "testing/refining" period in their lives for anything. The reflection period of pain, dreams deferred, of hopelessness during a low period in our lives often produces faith and character. It bring everything in us out of us to show what we're really made of.
The psalmist is praising God for not only testing but that during the process,He kept him. I hear the hymn "Oh To Be Kept by Jesus" in my mind as I type. The refiners fire is almost unbearable because it is a purging process purifying our hearts, minds, and souls. These parts of our lives should remain as pure as possible since we must love God with all three. Jesus said it was the greatest and foremost commandment.
No matter what you're facing that has your back up against the wall, we can rest assured that God not only is with us every step of the way; but He will bring us out! He will not only bring us out, but it will be to a place of rich fulfillment; better than you could've dreamed or planned for yourself. Our trails and testimonies are precious to Him during the shaping periods and will be encouragement to our Christian brothers and sisters who may entering a trial, currently in one, or coming out. Don't focus on your test, but your testimony which has RICH fulfillment.
Mark 22:36-38
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Every Prayer
Psalm 39:12 Hear my prayer Lord, listen to my cry for help; do not be deaf to my weeping. I dwell with you as a foreigner, a stranger, as all my ancestors were.
Recently, I have fallen in love with Israel Houghton's "Every Prayer" sung with Mary Mary. I've been hearing the song for a minute, but it wasn't until I saw an amazing liturgical dance to the song that it became very personal and testimonial to me. Some of the lyrics are: I heard 'em say, you brought me from a mighty long way now today I can testify that I believe it. And on my way, I realized He's the One who kept me. When the storms of life arise, sleepless nights and desperate cries, He has captured every tear assuring me He hears every prayer, waiting on the answer only to discover He is near and He hears every prayer for He has done great things. And I believe He's a God that always answers prayer.
This Psalm lets us know that even David, a man after God's own heart found himself despondent and crying out to the Lord. Many times, we assume God has forgotten about as we see prayers of believer and non-believers alike getting answered. What a relief to be reminded that this great man of God also faced the same troubles as we do; however,I can't help but emphasize the beauty of a having prayer life. Even through our tears, prayer is priceless. We can be encouraged that God is near, actively listening and working on our behalf. The enemy wants us to become discouraged, depressed, and despair-but don't fall for his hype. Make a mental note, that all these words begin with the letter "d" just like his name. Jesus called him the father of lies! What is true, and will always remain true no matter what we face in this life, is the Word of God. Charles Stanley refers to the Bible as an "immovable anchor in times of storm". Even if you're struggling to believe that your prayers are being heard, remember that you are loved, never going through in your own strength,and He hears you and will not forget. Rejoice because the tears that you have cried are just watering the great blessing He has prepared especially for you. Every prayer is heard and answered in His time; every tear is dried and captured, and yes He still answers prayer. So what are you waiting for?
Psalm 34:15
Isaiah 64:4
Nahum 1:7
John 3:16
John 8:44
Recently, I have fallen in love with Israel Houghton's "Every Prayer" sung with Mary Mary. I've been hearing the song for a minute, but it wasn't until I saw an amazing liturgical dance to the song that it became very personal and testimonial to me. Some of the lyrics are: I heard 'em say, you brought me from a mighty long way now today I can testify that I believe it. And on my way, I realized He's the One who kept me. When the storms of life arise, sleepless nights and desperate cries, He has captured every tear assuring me He hears every prayer, waiting on the answer only to discover He is near and He hears every prayer for He has done great things. And I believe He's a God that always answers prayer.
This Psalm lets us know that even David, a man after God's own heart found himself despondent and crying out to the Lord. Many times, we assume God has forgotten about as we see prayers of believer and non-believers alike getting answered. What a relief to be reminded that this great man of God also faced the same troubles as we do; however,I can't help but emphasize the beauty of a having prayer life. Even through our tears, prayer is priceless. We can be encouraged that God is near, actively listening and working on our behalf. The enemy wants us to become discouraged, depressed, and despair-but don't fall for his hype. Make a mental note, that all these words begin with the letter "d" just like his name. Jesus called him the father of lies! What is true, and will always remain true no matter what we face in this life, is the Word of God. Charles Stanley refers to the Bible as an "immovable anchor in times of storm". Even if you're struggling to believe that your prayers are being heard, remember that you are loved, never going through in your own strength,and He hears you and will not forget. Rejoice because the tears that you have cried are just watering the great blessing He has prepared especially for you. Every prayer is heard and answered in His time; every tear is dried and captured, and yes He still answers prayer. So what are you waiting for?
Psalm 34:15
Isaiah 64:4
Nahum 1:7
John 3:16
John 8:44
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Keep It Up
Luke 18:1-8 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.He said, "In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man.And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying,'Give me justice against my adversary.'For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself,'Though I neither fear God nor respect man,yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.'" And the Lord said, "Hear what the unrighteous judge says. And will not God give justice to his elect,who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes,will he find faith on earth?"
It seems like when we need to pray the most, and the enemy is attacking us with everything he's got, the distractions of life and nuances of everyday living capture our attention instead of praying. Persisting in prayer should come as easy as curling up with a new book by a favorite author or enjoying a spa day with girlfriends, but often prayer manages to be an afterthought, a faint memory when many of people can testify if it had NOT been for the prayers of the righteous, where would we be. My great-aunt used to prayer religiously from noon to one o'clock every afternoon. Like the faithful hands on the grandfather clock, her gnarled hands would turn off the credits of The Young and The Restless and spend time communicating with the Father. Even though her feeble body could not kneel, the humbleness of her heart and seriousness in prayers has always stayed with me. Hers was certainly an effective prayer life! But moving beyond time limits, it is my desire to be that committed-period! The Christian life not only expands our foundation for faith, it stretches our ability to go beyond what we can see to what we believe. As Jesus told the disciple, do not lose heart! It's a crazy world, but we serve a God who is always listening, even to our faintest cry, but we have to use the communication tool of prayer. We have the assurance that not only does He hear, but He answers, and quickly! Whatever you're going through, continue to be strong in the Lord and in His might and He will come through.
Psalm 5:1-3
It seems like when we need to pray the most, and the enemy is attacking us with everything he's got, the distractions of life and nuances of everyday living capture our attention instead of praying. Persisting in prayer should come as easy as curling up with a new book by a favorite author or enjoying a spa day with girlfriends, but often prayer manages to be an afterthought, a faint memory when many of people can testify if it had NOT been for the prayers of the righteous, where would we be. My great-aunt used to prayer religiously from noon to one o'clock every afternoon. Like the faithful hands on the grandfather clock, her gnarled hands would turn off the credits of The Young and The Restless and spend time communicating with the Father. Even though her feeble body could not kneel, the humbleness of her heart and seriousness in prayers has always stayed with me. Hers was certainly an effective prayer life! But moving beyond time limits, it is my desire to be that committed-period! The Christian life not only expands our foundation for faith, it stretches our ability to go beyond what we can see to what we believe. As Jesus told the disciple, do not lose heart! It's a crazy world, but we serve a God who is always listening, even to our faintest cry, but we have to use the communication tool of prayer. We have the assurance that not only does He hear, but He answers, and quickly! Whatever you're going through, continue to be strong in the Lord and in His might and He will come through.
Psalm 5:1-3
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