Humility is a godly quality

There is absolutely nothing wrong wth a person being humble.In fact, humility is a refreshing and admirable trait.A trait, in fact that God rewards.  The humble are exalted in God's eyes.

A godly person is a humble person. A humble person is a wise person. Those who are not humble are foolish and not wise. Proverbs 9 writes of wisdom and foolishness. "Wisdom has built her house, she has hewn out its seven pillars..."Come eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the say of understanding."..."Let all who are simple come in here!" she says to those who lack judgemen. "Stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is delicious! But little do they know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of the grave."" Those who lack humility lack judgement. They are arrogant and will be brought low.

Consider the verses about exalting the humble and bringing down the arrogant. Pro 16:19Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud. Pro 29:23 A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor. James 4:9-10 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. 1 Pe 5:5-6 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Matthew 23:12 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 1:52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. Luke 18:14, "I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." God is merciful towards those who are in need, such as those who are in need of forgiveness and direction. He is not as merciful to those who think that they are above that of who they are. Jesus tells of a Pharisee who judged a man who was a tax collector for his sins. However, God will exalt the tax collector because of his humility and will bring down low the Pharisee because of his arrogance and his hypocrisy. 1 John 1 says that those who believe he has no sin is wrong, for all of us are sinners. Even if we sin, God will forgive us. God is and will be gracious toward the humble.

God is a just God. But He is also a Jealous God and will not permit worshipping anything else other than Him. The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sins. In that time, we are humbled because we now know that we are sinners and we need Him. We are brought low. Our faith has become childlike. Luke 9:48 says, "Then he said to them, "Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For he who is least among you all-he is the greatest."" Be childlike and humble in your faith. Humble yourself before God. Psalm 51 writes of a broken and contrite heart. A humble person is an honest person. Be honest with God. Come to Him. Believe that He Rose Jesus. Call on the name of Lord Jesus.

Urgent Message to the World

There is evidence that we are definitely running out of time-and excuses! There is so much going on that it seems that there is no hope. But there is hope. It is only a prayer away. All you have to do is to call on that hope. His name is Jesus Christ.

God's Word says so. Romans 10:9 writes, "If you declare with your lips, "Jesus is Lord", and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." It goes on further to state in verse 13, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." That truth has been stated so that the people will understand this.

Life is too short. No amount of religion or good works will save you. No amount of money or influence will save you. No amount of drugs, cigarettes, or alcohol will save you. You will not find answers to your innermost questions on television or on the radio, though there are people who are truly proclaiming the gospel on those mediums. That is only because they never claim to be the answers. They know Jesus is the answer. They proclaim this truth in their messages all the time.

Jesus loves you. God does exist. Jesus died on the cross for you and rose again on the third day. Jesus is the answer. Don't reject Him. Don't reject the Father. I am telling you the truth.

Drugs? Alcohol? Homosexuality? Bitter? Unforgiving? Racist? Sexist? Liar? Greedy? Religious? Hypocrite? Backstabber? Atheist or Agnostic? Fearful? Muslim, Buddhist, or worship other gods? Cursing or gossiping? Rapist? Murderer? Drug Dealer? Gangster? Theif? Full of hate? Jealousy or envy? Child Molestor?

There are a large number of sins that I have not covered, but for all of these sins and the ones listed above, Jesus is the answer. Jesus will forgive your sins, no matter how bad, except when you blaspheme the Holy Spirit or don't repent of your sins. Don't wait until it is too late. Call on Him now.



Are You Ready?

Do you just believe in God, but have not repented?

Have you accepted Jesus once but have fallen away?

Do you have unforgiveness in your life?

Have you been deceived by false prophets?

Are you a Mormon, Jehovah's Witness, Pentecostal, or Catholic?

Do you harbor hatred for anyone?

Do you have sinful thoughts?

Have you committed adultery or fornication?

Are you a homosexual or bisexual?

Are you an atheist or an agnostic?

Do you reject the Trinity?

Have you ever taken God's name in vain?

Do you believe that to get to Heaven, you have to live a good life?

Do you pass judgement on others?

Do you think that others should get saved and get right, but don't take the time to get your own self right?

Do you defraud others?

Have you ever engaged in prostitution or any other areas of the sex industry?

Have you ever supported the sex industry in any other way?

Have you compromised your beliefs?

Are you into the occult, astrology, psychics, and the like?

Are you into drugs, alcohol, and cigaretts?

Have you ever ridiculed God, the Bible, etc?

Do you not believe that Jesus is equal to the Father?

Do you love money and family more than God?

Are you ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

Do you believe that the Bible is not relevant for these times?

Do you feel that the Commandments are just suggestions?

Do you feel that a little white lie or just a little bit of sin won't hurt?

Do you believe that Islam and other religions are sister faiths to Christianity and Judaism?

Do you believe that one faith is just as good as another?

Do you believe that homosexuality is right or do you hate homosexuals?



I suggest that you take this test. It is not vital that you answer a number of questions to be saved, but it is vital that we all "get our houses in order". We all need to get ourselves right with God. Even a little sin is a big sin in God's sight. We live in a world where there is so much deception and hatred. Holiness is vital to the Christian life. We as Christians are not to agree with the world. Those who are saved need to know the truth before it is too late. If you hold any beliefs contrary to the Word of God, then you are not ready. You do not love the Lord because you have not kept His commandments. You are not abiding in Him. "Repent! For the kingdom of God is at hand." (Matthew 3)


If you have said yes...
...however not to Jesus Christ but to any of the questions on the left, then you need to repent. The Bible says, "even a little leaven leavens the whole." One sin could cause you your salvation just because you have not repented. To even be a righteous person, you have to repent. To be a holy person, you have to repent. To be a godly person, you have to repent. Repent. Repent. Repent. I cannot stress this enough. It is not a feel-good gospel. It is the truth. Feel good gospels and chants won't make you free. Say yes to Jesus Christ. Say yes to the truth.

Who is vital to your salvation?
Jesus Christ is. Admit that you are a sinner who is in need of Jesus Christ, for He is the ONLY way to God. Read John 14:6. There is no other way.

Believe that God raised Him from the dead. He died on the cross for us and rose on the dead on the third day.
He is real. He was born of a virgin and preached to multitudes of people. He was incarnated. He was God in the flesh. He was part of the world's creation in Genesis and He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
All of this is the truth. I am telling you the Good News. The world as we know it will end. Sin is punishable by death. There is a Heaven and there is definitely a Hell.

You don't have to answer 80 questions to be saved. You don't have to dress appropriately to be saved. You don't need to chant to be saved. All you have to do is come as you are. All you have to do is confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead. Call on the name of Jesus. (Romans 10:9,13)

If you do believe that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised you from the dead, I ask that you pray this prayer,
"Jesus, you are Lord. I believe that you died on the cross for me and God raised you from the dead. I am a sinner in need of You. Forgive me for all of my sins. Save me, Jesus. I also ask that my name be written in Heaven. I thank you for saving me, in Jesus' name, Amen."


Confess your newfound faith with someone. Do not be ashamed. Do not deny
Him. Yes, there are people who call themselves Christian and really are.

Love

"I know my sheep and they know me. And I am willing to die for them....."
John 10:15
What really is Love?
There is a freedom when it comes to love
Love issues a statement to the world and is not ashamed
There is a truth that only hate disguises
That love reveals
Love is a feeling that trusting someone is the right thing to do
But love is an action that cautions us and warns us of the impending danger that hate causes
Love is pure
Love is forgiveness
Love is understanding that we are never alone
Love is about respecting one another
There is not a shred of envy, but mounds of dignity when it comes to love
If only the world could apply it to their lives
Then we wouldn't see hate in the everyday
Because love is what brings us together
For love truly does conquer all

The Hardest Thing about Love
The hardest we ever had to do is to love someone who has done us wrong. God is God of love. As a matter of fact, God is love. Jesus said that we are to love our neighbor and to love God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. How do we do that? By learning to love yourself and each other.

There is so little love in the world now. In a world like this, maybe love does conquer all. Think about it, need salvation? John 3:16 says that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son... In need of money? Money? Is the love of money the root of all evil? Actually, it is A root of all evil, not the root. Money can be a good thing, and God also loved rich people; just read the books of Queen Esther and Job. He blessed Job twofold. And in John 10:8, Jesus does want us to have an abundant life. God wants us to be blessed, as long as we put Him first. Lonely? Jesus in called his disciples friends, for He loved His disciples. Forgiveness? If you don't forgive others, you won't be forgiven yourself.

Matthew 24 prophecies that in the last days, the love of many shall grow cold. This is because of the "sin that abounds". Look around. People killing one another, children being abused, kids disrespecting their parents, God's name is blasphemed on the airwaves, etc. It seems that there is no hope in sight. But there is hope and there is love, and His name is Jesus. He does exist, and He does love you. He cares about you and He has a plan for you. He is not a hypocrite, nor is He about hypocrisy. He truly is about love, peace, and joy. But He is also the same Jesus who will Judge the nations.

But if He is the God of love, then why is He going to judge us? Why didn't He prevent this from happening? Why didn't He answer my prayers? Why would He send people to hell? He doesn't send people to Hell, we send ourselves. It is not His fault, it is ours. God gave us free will and as humans, we have the right to make a decision and your decisions will determine where you will spend eternity.

God can answer your questions better than I can. Won't you make the right choice and give your life over to Him? Speak from your heart (I don't mean blaspheme Him). If you want to know what love is all about, ask Him. If you want to be saved, call on the name of Jesus. If you need healing, ask Him for healing. If you are just lonely, He is closer than a phone call away.



1 John 4:9-10
In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live throught Him. In this is love, not that we loved, God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.


Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins.

Are You Born Again?

Imagine you have only 24 hours to live. What will you do in those last 24 hours? Will you make up for lost time with your family? Will you check and recheck to make sure your finances are in order? Will you even take the time to make peace with those who have hurt you? Or will you take the time to ask yourself,"What is the value of my soul?" What have I done to contribute to this world? What will be my legacy?"

Your soul should be our first priority. We will not take our bank accounts, our education, nor our belongings. In fact, when we die, nobody talks about those things anyway. All we talk about is what kind of person you were or what legacy we would leave behind. In fact, God cares about your heart more so than our loved ones do.

You see, God loves us. After all, He is our Creator. He came in the flesh, preached amongst the Gentiles, and sacrificed the life of his very Son so that we might have eternal life. In fact, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are One.

There are only two places each of us will end up when we die because there are only two decisions for us to make. Christianity is not a complex religion, nor is it a religion of hypocrites. Religion makes what is true hard; it is full of rules to follow. In other words, religion says that good works will save us.

That is not so. You can be religious and contribute to thousands of charities and still end up in Hell. Jesus is the only way to eternal life. We are saved by faith, but faith involves action and that action is repentance.

Repentance involves changing your heart and mind towards God (turning away from sinful deeds) and being remorseful for what we have done and knowing that all of us are sinners, including yourself. In other words, being born-again involves being humble and turning our lives over to God.

If you have never repented of your sins or have never been born again, then make this first step and pray this prayer, or one similar in your own words:
"Lord Jesus Christ, I am a sinner in need of a Savior. Forgive me of all my sins. I turn my life and my will over to you. I ask that my name be written in the Lamb's Book of Life. Thank you for saving me, in your name, Jesus, Amen."

Congratulations, you have made the most important decision in your life. Tell someone about this decision. Don't be ashamed of God or His words. Water baptism is not necessary for salvation; it is because of the remission of one's sins that he or she is baptized. John 3 says those who are born again are born of water and of spirit. Let it be noted that baptism alone does not save us; only Jesus Christ does.

John 3:5
"I tell you the truth"; replied Jesus, "that no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit."

The Value of Modesty

Being modest is something one should value, especially if one is a believer. A modest person is one who is meek, humble, kind, and one who shows simplicity. Nowadays with eroding values, there is a call to modesty not only in dress, but in a person's character, and I think that is a good thing. In the world we live in there are numerous sexual perversions now being touted as acceptable or okay just as long as no one gets hurt. People are wearing immodest clothing, which may or may not say anything about a person's character, but says much to the rest of the world as to how one will be viewed. People who are modest in dress and character are treated with far more respect than one who is not modest. When one is modest, spiritually they are right. They are balanced in not only how they treat others, but they are balanced in their conduct, and their appearance shows this.

People respect those who have character and live with integrity, honor, and dignity. And that is how we are to conduct ourselves in all areas of our lives. Wives who are modest are submissive and obedient to their husbands. They respect their husband's authority in the home and are loyal, ladylike, slow to anger, and whose conduct and manner of dress are not offensive, for she knows that what she does is a reflection of her husband for she has influence. She is the keeper of the home. In other words, she is like the Proverbs 31 wife, the wife of noble character. She is an industrious woman of strength and intelligence; she is trustworthy and generous. In short, modest people are also such. She is one without pretense for she is genuine. She is affectionate and loving. She is honest in all her dealings. Let me keep this in mind. These are qualities that all women, and men should follow, not just wives.

Modest men are men who are good husbands and good stewards. They are not religious, hypocritical, and self righteous. They don't just have the appearance of modesty, for they are real men, authentic and not putting on airs. They are to be leaders of their home and not allow their authority to be usurped. They are not easily swayed or influenced. They are submissive and obedient to the will of God. They are meek and humble and those who are husbands are called to love their wives, cherish them, and be faithful to them. In short, a modest person is one who is not only meek and humble, but also wise, compliant to the will of God, and are willing to yield to His authority without fail and certainly without degradation.

Verses to read: Proverbs 31:10-31, Matthew 5:3-11, Matthew 23:1-12, Ephesians 5:22-24, Colossians 3:18, 1 Tomothy 2:9-15, 1 Timothy 3:2-10, 1 Peter 3:3-6

God Does Know our Every Thought

God Does Know Our Every Thought


 Matthew 6:30-34

30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.


Life is too short, so why should we not think about tomorrow? The Bible didn't say that we shouldn't think about tomorrow, but it did say that we shouldn't worry about tomorrow. The future should not cosume our everyday thoughts. At the same time, we should prepare our souls, and the rest of ourselves, for what is to come. Worrying will not solve the problems that are already there. Life is too short, for we don't know what tomorrow will bring. However, today can be the day for salvation, for helping the kids, etc. Don't put off for tomorrow what you can do today.

Matthew 22:36-40
36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets

In short, we should love the Lord with every "fiber of our being". These are not suggestions as how we view the Lord. It is commanded that we love the Lord, ourselves, and each other. The Lord died for our sins, and ressurected on the Third day. He forgives our sins. He saves and restores us. He loves us and guides us. He pleads our cases and He never misleads us. How many humans can we say that for?


Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Matthew 15:18-20
18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.
19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:
20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.

This could easily be a paraphrase of Proverbs 4:23, which states, "Keep your heart with all dilligence, for out of it spring the issues of life." Defiled hearts and minds are far more dangerous than defiled hands. Sins of the heart and mind are simply that: they are sins. We cannot wash our hearts and minds of our sins. Religion says that good works can save us. Religion, however, cannot close the gulf that separates man and God. Therefore, it cannot save us; only God the Son, Jesus, can.

2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

We are to think on life-affirming things such as love, joy, peace, and honesty. Those life-affirming things are things of the Spirit. We are to be lead by the Spirit, not the flesh. Things of the world weigh us down, but things of God lift us up. Allowing those thoughts rob us of the quality of life and stunts our spiritual growth.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
Psalms 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
Psalms 63:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
Psalms 77:12 I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.
Psalms 119:15 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.
Psalms 119:23 Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.
Psalms 119:48 My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.

We as Christian believers need to spend time meditating and memorizing God's Word. God's Word is knowledge and knowledge is power. Power against the forces of darkness and the ability to answer questions people have about our faith. It is, however, more important to actually live by those words we read, study, and meditate.

Who is a Christian?

Do You Follow Christ?
Simply put, a Christian is a true follower of Christ. A Christian sacrifices all to know Jesus. He follows Jesus even to the detriment of his own life. The Bible writes about "not loving life to the death". Jesus said it this way in Luke 9:23: "And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me."

There will be persecution and other troubles. The Christian walk is a race. However, those who endure to the end will be saved (Matthew 24). Despite any doubts or concerns they have, a true Christian knows that God will answer. God will be there for them and they grow more dependent on God. They know that their conduct is important and that the world judges us by our conduct. We also know that we cannot do the things that the world does, for the world will pass away. The true Christian knows the voice of God. But they will also have to fight a hard battle against the forces of darkness, but it is a winning battle. Satan hates the true believer. John 10:4 says, "And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice."

The Word Christian comes from Acts 11:26. It states
"And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch."
As written earlier, Christians will be persecuted for their beliefs. But despite the persecution, it is worth it. Our faith is what keeps us strong.
1 Peter 4:16 writes, "Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf."

However, there are differences between true Christians and false Christians. Sadly, the world often views on those Christians who do ungodly deeds. But there are differences. True Christians are not ignorant of Satan's devices. Nor are we ignorant of who Jesus is and what He has done and continues to do.

Matthew 7:21-23 writes about what will happen to prophets who call themselves Christians and true prophets of the Lord but really are not.
"21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."
Also read Matthew 25. This chapter talks about the Ten Virgins, five of whom did not have their lamps lit. Therefore, they were not ready and God did not know them. Also in that chapter there were those on the left because they have not done unto the Lord.

Those who are false Christians are those who have not repented of their sins. They have fallen away. They have deceived and have been deceived. They have sinned willfully. Some have preached a gospel other than what it is written in the Bible. They have used the Bible for their own selfish purposes. They claim to know God, but really don't. Those who have never known God have flat out rejected God. There are people who have even not forgiven others.

These people include Mormons, Catholics, Jehovah's Witnesses, and other religious groups who reject many tenets of the Christian faith. This also includes many who think they are saved, but really are not. Sadly, the world often talks about those who are false Christians and end up thinking that this is how all Christians are, but that is not true.

1 John 1:6-9 says,
"6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
False Christians can repent of their sins and be forgiven. God is a merciful God. Nothing surprises Him. Be honest with yourself. Are you who you say you are?

Paul writes that we need to check ourselves spiritually. We need to get our spiritual houses in order.
2 Corinthians 13:5-6 says:
5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?
6 But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.

A reprobate is one who remains foolish or one who is depraved. Have you chosen a reprobate life over a free, Spirit-filled life with Christ as Lord and Savior? Are you spiritually depraved? Have you repented of your sins? Do you truly know Jesus? Who is head of your life? If you know for sure that you will spend eternity in Heaven, would your answer be yes? If your answer is not "Yes, I am a saved, spirit-fiilled born-again Christian who has been forgiven, saved, and delivered. I know that I will spend eternity with the Lord in Heaven. I know this because I have walked righteously. I worship Him in Spirit and Truth. I am led by the Holy Spirit. I believed with all my heart that Jesus died for me and rose on the third day. I know my name is written in Heaven. ,then you need to pray this prayer.
"Jesus, you are Lord. I believe that God raised you from the dead. I honestly cannot say that statement above. I confess that I haven't been living as a true Christian. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart. I accept You as my Lord and Savior. Write my name in Heaven. Thank You for saving me, in Jesus' name, Amen."

Miracles still do happen

"Little Miracles Happen Everyday"

Miracles still do happen

In Hebrews 11:1, "faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Miracles require even the smallest of faith. Miracles can and still do happen today. Jesus is the same for all time. Miracles did not stop in the first century. In fact, little miracles happen everyday. Just because science cannot not concretely prove them does not mean that they do not happen.

Genesis 6-8 tells of Noah, a righteous man whose family, including himself was spared during thedestruction of the world. At that time, the world was filled with unrighteousness and corruption and Noah and his family were found to be the only righteous people on the earth. God spared them because of their obedience to Him, just as God will spare us and be gracious to us when we walk in obedience. Many people would not concretely believe in a man who built an ark filled with seven other people and plenty of animals. Then the flood water destroyed the world full of sin and spared those in the ark. Then a rain came for 40 days and 40 nights. But those who believe do not doubt that this has happend in that time and feel that it will happen in our lifetime. The point is, miracles involve having confidence that an occurrence will happen even if the world's logic says it is impossible.

There are stories of people who have survived deadly car crashes, falls, and incurable illnesses. In fact, if you read the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, Jesus has healed a woman with an issue of blood. He rasied a young girl to life. He brought back Lazarus, a man he loved, to life. He himself was raised from the dead by God on the third day. That is why salvation in itself is a miracle. The last enemy that will be destroyed is death (1 Cor 15). Jesus conquered death, hell, and hte grave. In Revelation 20-21, the present system of things will end and death and hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is reserved of the enemies of God and those who do not believe.

Salvation is a miracle. Jesus Christ was indeed raised by God. He suffered much for us. He was tried, spat upon, beat, mocked, judged, and executed. He knows what it's like to be in travail, to be bullied and ridiculed, to be judged, and to suffer need. He was treated horribly, yet did nothing wrong. The crowd chose a guilty criminal over Him yet He sacrificed Himself for us. The miracle is that in three days, his tomb was empty. Jesus had risen from the dead. Our salvation is possible because of what he did for us. Jesus is a miracle worker and yet performed the ultimate miracle: that the gulf between man and God might be bridged. All you have to do is call on the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead. (Romans 10:9-10) With Jesus all things are possible. Trust in Him. Whatever your need is, whatever your miracle is, call on Him, whether it is forgiveness, finances, or salvation.

The Proverbs 31 Wife

Prov. 31:10-31 (10) Who can find a virtous woman? for her price is far above rubies. (11) The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. (12) She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. (13) She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. (14) She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. (15) She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. (16) She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. (17) She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. (18) She perceiveth that her merchandise [is] good: her candle goeth not out by night. (19) She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. (20) She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. (21) She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household [are] clothed with scarlet. (22) She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing [is] silk and purple. (23) Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. (24) She maketh fine linen, and selleth [it]; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. (25) Strength and honour [are] her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. (26) She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue [is] the law of kindness. (27) She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. (28) Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband [also], and he praiseth her. (29) Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. (30) Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. (31) Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

The New International Version asks, "A wife of noble character who can find?..." Proverbs 31:10-31 is what every woman should strive to be, that rare woman whose husband can trust her. She is a crown on her husband's head. She is not loud, stubborn, faithless, nor contentious. She is not adulterous, slanderous, or unreliable. She is a a God-fearing woman who is or has walked the narrow road. She is not only a good wife, but a good mother. She isn't known for just being beautiful or charming. She is a woman of integrity, strength, dilligence, and character.

She puts the needs of others before her own. She does not look down on others, for she is gracious, virtuous, and kind. She is a hard working woman and keeper of the home. Her husband is also a man of good reputation. She is wise and industrious, not lazy or foolish. She is a stark contrast to the adulteress who is loud, obstinate, rebellious, and cunning. She is not a woman that people warn against; she is role model to look up to. People respect the Proverbs 31 woman.

She is a submissive wife and respects her husband and his role in the home. Her husband loves her and is considerate of her. He treats her with the respect as of a weaker vessel and as an heir with her of the precious gift of life. Her husband loves her as Christ loves the Church. Her beauty is inner beauty and she is blessed not only by her husband, but also by her children. He knows that especially finding a virtuous wife is good and receives favor from the Lord, She lives holy and lives as a child of light. She also knows that a good name is better than great riches, for great riches are only temporary and one can lose money. But her reward will be in Heaven. Her reward is incorruptible and does not perish because she does what it good.

Verses and Books to read: Proverbs 31:10-31, Proverbs 12:4, Proverbs 18:22, Proverbs 21:19, Proverbs 2:16-18, Proverbs 5, 7:20-35, 7, Proverbs 22:1, Proverbs 27:15, 19, Ephesians 4:17-5, Colossians 3, 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15, Titus 3,1 Peter 3:1-7

Thanksgiving: What should we really be thankful for?

"Everything you do or say, then, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, as you give thanks to Him through God the Father." Colossians 3:17 A holiday is a day that is set aside so that we won't take things for granted everyday of our lives. Great definition of a holiday, isn't it? That is exactly what we all should have done this past Thursday. According to the verse above, "give thanks" in the name of Jesus. Thanksgiving is about being using 24 hours of our time to be thankful for what we have and who we love. Thanksgiving should also be a time to be thankful for who we are. Are you thankful for who you are? Are you happy with yourself or how you are living your life? I would like to take this opportunity to say that I am thankful for much. I am not the richest woman in the world, but spiritually, I know that Jesus is my Lord and Savior, and that is a lot. I have had troubles being assured of my salvation and knowing who I am, but not now. I thank God that He is faithful and just and true. I love God, for He loves me. We should all be thankful for that. If you don't know how to be thankful or don't know or not sure about your salvation, please start by praying this prayer or a similar one in your own words: "Dear Heavenly Father, I want to know You. I surrender all I have and all I own to you. Forgive me for all my sins and give me the assurance of my salvation. I thank you for this new beginning, In Jesus' name, Amen." After all, there should at least one thing all of us should be thankful for. Start with being thankful for this new beginning and tell someone about this new beginning.

Thanksgiving

To me, Thanksgiving is more about being grateful and being thankful than about great food and football.  It is a time to be thankful for being a creation of God and for all that He has done for you.  Let us all take the time to thank the Lord.

Let us take the time to be grateful and praise the Lord.

Psalm 100

A psalm. For giving grateful praise.

¹ Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
² Worship the Lord with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
³ Know that the Lord is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his
 we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

⁴ Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
⁵ For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.

 

No matter what circumstances we may face and no matter where we are, let us take time to praise the Lord and be grateful.

 

 

 

You Must Be Born Again

In order to make it to Heaven, we must be born again.  There are no ifs, ands, or buts.  Jesus stated this to Nicodemus in John 3:7.  Being born again means that one is a repentant sinner who is a new creation in Christ.  Have you repented?  Are you born again? 

Prayer changes things

When I think of prayer, I think of these words:

Prayer changes things.

Prayer changes people.

Let go and let God.

Prayer isn't a magic formula.  It is about a deep, loving, honest communication with God.  Prayer isn't always easy.  Finding the right words can actually be quite difficult.  But Jesus taught us about prayer.  He knew in situations such as these, that praying is not meant to be so public so that others can see how religious you are. It should be without distractions.  This is not against public prayers for America or for our family.  However, he made mention of fasting and prayer as a way of appearing religious or to ask amiss. 

Here is an interpretation of how Jesus taught us to pray:

"Our Father in Heaven hallowed by your name, you kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one."--Matthew 6:9-15 "Father, hallowed by your name, you kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."--Luke 11:2-9 Matthew and Luke gave accounts of what Jesus said concerning prayer. In Matthew's account, Jesus teaches that we should pray like those who are hypocrites because of their show of outward prayer, but rather pray in secret and he or she shall be rewarded openly. What Jesus meant was that prayer is not to be taken lightly. It is a serious, deep, spiritual conversation between a believer and the Lord. In prayer, you are talking about not just your needs, but your secrets and your fears. God wants us to openly share with Him and talk to him. We are to reverance, or show respect to, the Lord in our prayers. The prayers begin with our Father because we are addressing ourselves to Him, our God, our Heavenly Father. In Luke's account after he teaches the disciples how to pray He gives them a parable about a man who is in need of bread from a friend. Jesus' message is to "Ask, seek, and knock" For those ask receives, for those who seeks will find, and for those who knock the door will be opened. He gives this parable to teach them to pray in faith and never give up. Keep in mind that God will answer prayer, but one has not because they don't ask according to His will. If we ask anything in His name, He will do it.-- New Testament verses paraphrased. God is a generous God who loves us, His Children. He will give good gifts and not evil to His children.--Luke11:13-14 paraphrased. The third commandment according to Exodus 20 states, "You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name." It is apparent that God takes his name seriously and that he is a Jealous God; He is not to be mocked. He is to be honored and revered. He will return and He will rule someday. He is God. He is Lord. Whatever God's will is on earth, the same will be in Heaven. His promises are sure and true. Daily he will provide for us so that we won't have to worry about what we need. God can do it. Not only does God forgive us, he also expect us to forgives others for if "we do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." "For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever, amen. God is worthy of praise for He is the Lord, Deliverer, and Savior. Jesus overcame the evil one and one day, death and the enemy will be destroyed. Praise Him.

My cat Tango in pictures

 

Ah, isn't he a cutie.  He was brought here from an animal shelter several years ago.  He never ceases to amaze and entertain me.  He is a good cat to have.  He is also a great alarm clock as he wakes me up every morning to play with him and feed him.

Christians and walking the narrow road

God does put believers to a high moral standard because of our claim that we are saved.  It doesn't matter if you say you are saved, you have to show that you are born-again.  Repentance and regeneration are key because people will see that godly fruits are being produced.  This is something that is vital, not just important.  Jesus said it himself, "you must be born again".  Sadly, few people will find and walk the narrow road and that includes those who claim to be born again. 

Financial burdens

Well, the pound cake I made turned out well.  I love to bake cakes and I have gotten good at it.  As a matter of fact, I enjoy baking and cooking period and I plan to do so this upcoming Christmas.  I have made a list and checked it more than twice.

As I walk and am walking, I find myself being inspired to write in these blogs.  I also find myself praying to God a lot more.  I do jump from topic whenever I speak and write as you can see. I went from cakes to Christmas to prayer.  Now onto prayer.  I have learned about prayer today. 

Prayer is not just about petitioning to the Lord, but also being honest with God.  I have been getting a greater insight into not only the spiritual, but also the natural as well.  I have asked God for money to further my education and for Christmas gifts.  But I have asked amiss.  There are more important spiritual matters that I had to deal with such as repentance and discovery.

Discovery is about being honest with God.  It is about putting your needs aside and not being selfish.  It is truly about dying to oneself daily and obedience to God.  I have done that in my prayers.  God knows of my needs, but I have learned to seek Him.  He knows where the finances are coming from.  He knows of my problems before I even ask.

He also knows that it is more important to follow His lead and not for Him to follow my lead.  That is not how God works.  Asking God for the wrong things with the wrong motives is asking Him amiss.  The Bible makes it clearer.  Asking Him amiss is about not purifying your own heart, being selfish, and unrepentant.  A believer who is also doubtful as well as unrepentant should not expect an answer.  God doesn't answer whenever we want to, but He is right on time, so that means that I have to wait.  In that we learn patience.

I thank God that I have learned to become more understanding and more faithful.  In fact, there are a lot of things that I have learned as of late.  Thankfully, I hope to continue growing.

Pound cake

Here is my recipe for pound cake.  I made this recipe this morning.

3 eggs
2 cups white sugar
4 cups self rising flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 cup softened butter
2 Tbsp. vanilla extract
1/3 cup milk

In a large bowl, mix the sugar, vanilla extract, and the softened butter.  Continue beating and slowly add the eggs and beat until it is fluffy in texture.  Add flour and the baking powder.  Beat until well corporated.  Then pour in the milk and keep mixing.  In a greased and floured bundt pan (preferably), bake in a preheated 325 degree oven for 45-60 minutes.  After baking for 45-60 minutes, use a butter knife or toothpick and poke in the center of the cake.  If it comes out clean, then it is ready.  Let cool at room temperature for at least an hour.  Then flip the cake onto a plate; store on a cake plate.  Finally serve.

Sports: for the love of the game

 I find myself doing things and rediscovering things that I haven't enjoyed in years.  It is one of those things that happen in my life.   For instance, I find myself enjoying an NBA game which I haven't enjoyed in many years.  The truth is, I only know who a few of the younger players are such as Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, and just a few others that I am only familiar with.  I am a fan of 1980s-1990s NBA basketball and NCAA March Madness basketball.  However, I began to grow weary about this NBA a few years ago.  My interest just died out.

I was bored and I hate being bored.  I feel the same way about football.  I know very little about the athletes but I am familiar with Peyton and Eli Manning and Tim Tebow because of the media coverage of them.  I still don't know who a lot of the players are as I find myself asking my brother about the players constantly.

I would know how to play sports such as basketball, football, and baseball as I know most of the rules.  I am not the big sports fan I once was.  I don't know if it i the quality, the quantity, or whatever the reason is.  Maybe I began to grow out of it.  I don't know.  All I care about is enjoying the game.  I know it is job to some, but to me just enjoying the game has always been something I enjoy doing.

I hope to enjoy the Clippers vs the Heat.  They are coming up next.

I am a Southern girl, and I am proud of being from the South.  I know it may sound funny to me, being a black girl.  From a historical perspective, I understand.  Blacks were enslaved, humiliated, oppressed, lynched, and segregated from the larger society.  But despite the injustice, there has been a lot of good things that have happened down here.  We as Southerners have contributed much to the fabric of US society.  While some Southerners are racists and fail to live up to what America is all about, most of us love the Lord and love America.  I created videos about the South because I want people to know what the US South is really like.  Here are the videos

The Confederacy and the South

What the South is really like-video needs to be updated

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OawPkFGWhaE&feature=plcp

 

What the South is really like 2

 

Being from the South, I am aware of the issues that we face.  I am also aware of what the South is all about.  Southerners are as divere a the rest of the country.  We are very unique in every way from our ethnic backgrounds to our cuisine to our diverse music backgrounds.

My Youtube Channel Videos

Here are some of my videos.  I have created mostly Christian videos for a number of years and I hope to reach others for the Lord.  We are living in a time where godlessness and lies about and the truth is needed, even within the church.  Here are some videos I would like to share:

Holiness and Worship

  Who is a Christian?

What is sin?

Why many in the church, rather, will end up in Hell



Jesus Saves

Jesus does indeed save.  He is the only Way to the Father.  He does have the power to forgive sins.  God is real.  Call on Him, and He will answer.

Happy Veterans Day and my thoughts on black Americans, the Republican Party, and the Tea Party

 

First and foremost I would like to wish all Americans Happy Veterans Day.  You will have to forgive me as the music probably doesn't match the tribute.  I for one am thankful to all of the veterans who fought valiantly for our nation in every land in the world.  Thank you to all.

 

 

 

 

I as a black American am well aware of the things that have happened in this nation, but mine is about Republicans and black people.  Politcal pundits keep talking about the Latino votes getting Obama in office and that the Republicans need to reach out to them. Why not also reach out to blacks? Not all blacks are Obama supporters nor all we much different from Latinos. Culturally we are conservative and family oriented, just like Latinos are. Have the Republicans given up on black people or have black people in general given up on Republicans? It is like a chicken and egg thing, but it has me wondering. I feel that the Dems have taken us as black people for granted yet it seems the Republicans have all but ignored black people into the equation. I feel like we as blacks have been dismissed just because the majority are Obama supporters. That is not fair. We too make up more than 10% of the US population, not including Africans, Middle Eastern blacks, Caribbeans, and Latinos. My point is black people are not a monolithic population including within the Black American population who make up about 13-14% of the US population and the attitude of both Dems and Republican pundits seem rather dismissive.

Governor Mitt Romney I guess tried to reach out to black voters, but I think that he could have appealed more to us in terms of our Conservative views, clearing up some of the 43% remarks sooner, gay marriage, churches, taxes, crime, and other things. We are really not that stupid and unreachable. I am not saying that they should do the Democratic way of reaching demographics, I am saying that the Republicans have got to do a better job of reaching out to us as black people. They may actually be surprised; however another issue is the groupism in the black community. We have been treated horribly in this country and Republicans in general have a bad rap in the black community. That needs to be fixed, I mean the extreme groupism. My question is, what is the best way for the Republcans to "sell" their ideas to all of America, not just one group or another. It seems that the Republican party is guilty of one thing and that is give up on a populace that was once loyal to them.

Conservatism has gotten a horrible rap especially in the black community and it worked. The Tea Party, Conservatism, even the more moderate Fox News are treated with contempt by many black people (some of whom I know...don't read the youtube and facebook posts). It would be nice if we as black people do our own thing, go our own way, and unite. We may not even have to be party loyal, but we don't have to shut the Republicans out completely because the Dems are just as imperfect if not more so for black people. I am just disappointed that black people have not been a focus like Latinos have been. Why is it by the way that welfare, entitlements, and freebies have bcome code words for black people? Why is it that illegal immigration has been a code word for Latinos? All blacks are not on welfare or other entitlements and not all Latinos are illegals and not all illegals are Latinos. I don't like how much of the MSM covers black or Latinos including much of the black and Latino MSM. It is slanted, racist, and elitist, but that is just for another topic.

 

I certainly didn't mean to contradict myself, but I just wish that most black people will have their eyes opened like the people in this video. The Democrats have shown for generations that they care nothing about black people in particular. Their policies sound good on paper but the implementation is and has been a disaster. I think that all Americans should choose the Republican Party because the implementation of much of their views would better help all communities. Maybe they shouldn't target black people specifically but compared to the Democrats, the Republicans have had a raw deal in the last few generations plus when it comes to their selling of their ideas, particularly to us as black Americans, the Republicans are far behind. That was my point. I feel that much can be done but blaming slavery and the white man doesn't help us one bit. Black people have enough power and wealth ourselves, but a lot of black people like the people in the video in Chicago are corrupt and obviously don't seem to care about our own people. I shudder to think that our President was voted in because he is "black", not because of qualifications or character, which was or is a mistake a lot of Americans have made over the last few years.

I, for one, am glad that I didn't vote on color but on issues. I had my doubts that he is the right man for the job and as far as I am concerned, black people need leadership especially from our own leaders in our communities and our government to not allow us to be held back. It is sad that black people who have been treated horribly are still being lied to by the Democratic Party. I admit that this country would be a much better place if the majority of US citizens regardless of race or color were more conservative and hold fast to their Conservative political and cultural views. I do understand what Dan meant and though I don't agree fully, we have allowed ourselves to be blinded, exploited by the higher ups of the Democratic Party and also much of what is considered our "culture" is an embarassment.

Black people have been taught that we were an African people whose ancestors were stripped of their ancestral cultural traits, though there is a grain of truth to that. We as black Americans are an assimilated people with a distinct cultural and historical heritage but that does not make us less American. After all, we have been here for centuries. We are a unique American people yet sadly there are some with a victim mentality and I believe that there are people who are feeding off of that. It is so sad. Culturally black people are family oriented, are for conservative principles and views, but like I mentioned, we have strayed away from that and just like the rest of society we have become a less godly, family oriented people which is I believe the crux of our black American culture and beliefs.

My interest in photography (includes pictures I have taken)

I spent the past year taking photographs of different formations of clouds, holiday photos, houses, people, etc.  I love taking photographs of just about anything from still life to recipes to whatever is random, such as a clock or a house.  Photography is an interest of mine and I hope to never give that up.

Here are some of the pictures I have taken.