"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.” – 2 Corinthians 4:8
You know, I was thinking about how the element of water is frozen and turned to ice. It occurred to me that the purpose of “ice” is somewhat similar to our purpose on earth. See, ice was created to bring a more refreshed feeling to all that consumes it. This is done in two forms: Cube or Crushed.
If an ice cube were to have feelings, would it be ok with being crushed to fulfill its purpose? I’d say no. I certainly would not want to be crushed to fulfill my purpose. Would you? I think not (in the natural mind). The process of being broken down hurts. See, our purpose is similar to that of ice as we are here to help refresh the lives of those around us, by sharing the Love of God and Gospel of Jesus Christ. What comes with the responsibility of fulfilling such a task is the reality of being hard pressed, persecuted, troubled or cast down. Or, crushed like ice.
Since we are doing God’s work, there is an adversary that is looking to crush our hope in Jesus and cause pain, distraction, fear and doubt into our lives. God allows this so that we can fully rely on Him for protection, comfort, strength and guidance. God allows us to experience these trials so that our lives can be transformed to the point where He is living through us, instead of us living through ourselves. Philippians 1:6 says, “…he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Jesus was a carpenter. Therefore, He has mastered the art of reconstruction (after the crushing). The book of James tells us why these trials will help fulfill our puropse:
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
He has a plan for you and is working in, and through, you each day so that His plan comes to fruition. We are called to bear the fruit of the Spirit (LOVE, JOY, PEACE, FORBEARANCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS and SELF-CONTROL) to all who God gives us. This process, however, takes time and can ONLY be reached once we are broken. Once crushed, God can rebuild us with His gifts and fruits so that we can be complete and lack nothing. This allows us to FULLY fulfill His will in our lives. Isn’t it funny how the word fruit can be found in the word FRUITion?!
Fruition (noun) is defined as attainment of anything desired; realization or accomplishment.
If you feel like you are being crushed today, try your best to consider it pure joy as God is working to accomplish what He started in you. Despite this process, the very purpose for which you were created WILL still be carried out!!! If the ice is crushed, it will still serve the same purpose, to refresh someone's life. If the enemy is bringing trials upon you, then you must be doing something right, in the eyes of God. Therefore take joy in it and give it to God as you are fulfilling His plan for your life. Don't get me wrong, God’s plan for your life isn’t to live in pain, sadness or fear but to cast all your care on Him so that He can use you for His intended purpose. Although we may not like this process of being broken, seek God’s love, knowledge and wisdom (by reading His word) so that we can fully understand the reason for it. Our responsibility to refresh the lives of others will require crushing in our own lives. Jesus was the example for how we are to live on earth and He faced every trial or temptation that we will ever face. In fact, He allowed Himself to be crushed in order to give us hope that these obstacles will not be experienced in vain. So, as you experience this pain that stirs up within you, look up and smile, for God is doing a work in you that you can't even fathom. Just stay close to Him and He will reveal all that you need to know.
We are called to do God's will in our lives. For us to be true representatives of Him, we must be made whole. Don’t misunderstand me about being broken, IT IS BY BEING CRUSHED, WHERE YOU ARE BEING MADE WHOLE. The mission of Christ wasn't fulfilled until He died on the cross as His body was broken. John 19:30 says, "When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit."
Side note: God has a sense of humor considering how, as I’m writing this, Ice Cube’s “Today was a Good Day” (edited version) started to play in my computer!!! The funny thing is that today was a GREAT day for me, due to my Father’s faithfulness to His word. I pray that this word that He put on my heart can refresh you while on your journey, as it has done to me.
Peace 2 U,
His Messenger
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
There’s a war going on inside, no one is safe from…
"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” - James 1:12
In Chapter 1, Sun Tzu states, “All warfare is based on deception.” This quote is extremely accurate and is the underlying factor when we find ourselves in the midst of spiritual warfare. The enemy is a master of mind tricks and will deceive us at all costs. When speaking to the Jews about God’s true children, Jesus said in John 8:42, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me. Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”
"The Art of War," written by Sun Tzu in 6th century BC, is one of the oldest and most successful books on military strategy in the world. In the book, Sun Tzu highlighted the importance of “positioning in strategy” and that position is affected by both objective conditions in the physical environment and the subjective opinions of competitive actors in that environment.
At one point, Sun Tzu writes, “So it is said that if you know your enemies and know yourself, you can win a thousand battles without a single loss. If you only know yourself, but not your opponent, you may win or may lose. If you know neither yourself nor your enemy, you will always endanger yourself. Therefore one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the most skillful. Seizing the enemy without fighting is the most skillful.”
In Chapter 1, Sun Tzu states, “All warfare is based on deception.” This quote is extremely accurate and is the underlying factor when we find ourselves in the midst of spiritual warfare. The enemy is a master of mind tricks and will deceive us at all costs. When speaking to the Jews about God’s true children, Jesus said in John 8:42, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me. Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”
The enemy will fill our heads with doubt, worry and fear in an attempt to test our faith. His main objective is to cause us to not trust in God and encourage us to lean on our own knowledge/forget what we already know. The enemy knows the word of God and will use that against us in an effort to trick us. Without realizing it, Sun Tzu gives us a great illustration of the type of “action plan” our adversary can attempt on us, as he sees us as the enemy, when he adds:
“Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near. Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him. If he is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.”
When it comes to our spiritual battle, I believe the last two lines sum it up best. The enemy is out to destroy, or separate, the body of Christ. If we are not prepared, by continuing to study God’s word, the enemy will attack and possibly succeed. He is not going to wait for us to be strong in the spirit; he is going to pounce on us when we are away from the word. This is why the word says for us to “store up” the Lord’s commands within us, so that, when we are away from the word, we would be prepared for battle anytime, anyplace or anywhere.
“Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near. Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him. If he is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.”
When it comes to our spiritual battle, I believe the last two lines sum it up best. The enemy is out to destroy, or separate, the body of Christ. If we are not prepared, by continuing to study God’s word, the enemy will attack and possibly succeed. He is not going to wait for us to be strong in the spirit; he is going to pounce on us when we are away from the word. This is why the word says for us to “store up” the Lord’s commands within us, so that, when we are away from the word, we would be prepared for battle anytime, anyplace or anywhere.
Despite the enemy’s strategies or plots, Paul, just like James, instructs us to take comfort through these trials as he writes in Romans 8:31 “If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written:
“For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
If you are facing some attacks today, take comfort in two things: 1) The enemy is threatened by you, therefore doing what he can to discourage you. So you must be doing something right. 2) God has your back and is allowing this to happen so that He may be glorified in it. The enemy can’t operate outside of the boundaries of God (see the book of Job).
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
If you are facing some attacks today, take comfort in two things: 1) The enemy is threatened by you, therefore doing what he can to discourage you. So you must be doing something right. 2) God has your back and is allowing this to happen so that He may be glorified in it. The enemy can’t operate outside of the boundaries of God (see the book of Job).
Don’t make the enemy relevant in YOUR life; he only exists if we allow him to exist. Keep your eyes on Christ and eventually, these plots to kill your dreams, steal your joy and destroy your faith will not be noticeable. We all know who wins in the end! Amen…oh yea and one last thing, ALWAYS remember to walk in the Love of God, for the power of Love overcomes evil.
Forget about the "Art of War" when strategizing to become victorious. For what lies within the Heart of War is Love. That is the ONLY weapon needed to prevail. Try it and see what happens.
Forget about the "Art of War" when strategizing to become victorious. For what lies within the Heart of War is Love. That is the ONLY weapon needed to prevail. Try it and see what happens.
Peace 2 U,
His Messenger
Monday, July 16, 2012
Take Action Over Your Life...
In the Bible, the book of Proverbs advises on applying knowledge and wisdom (for better living), which requires action. In the english language, verbs are actions words. Maybe that is why the word “verb” can be found in proVERBs?!?! .
When you learn the formula needed for true happiness and prosperity, take action and apply that knowledge. Only by actions, can anything get done. What good are tools, if they remain in the tool box? Those tools will not be used for what they were created for, if no one picks them up. The same applies to us. What good are we if we stay within the confines of our own comfort and minds? We will not be used for what we were created for if we do not apply the knowledge we learn and take a step towards God. Based on His word, that is all we need to do in order for Him to work within us.
James 4:7-8 says, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.”
So, go after that job that you felt led to apply for, clean that part of your home that you have been avoiding , work at what God has inspired you to do (but maybe you have been procrastinating), reach out to that person that you have been ignoring (but feel in your heart that you needed to speak with), be kind to that person who may not deserve it (in your eyes), read that book that you have been thinking about reading, take that leap of faith in a new direction that you have flirted with in the past (for your betterment, of course), tell that person, whom you may have quarreled with, that you love them and do your part in strengthening your relationship with God (by way of reading/studying His word, praying, and fellowshipping with those who have that same interest). Take action over your life and prepare yourself for an unexplainable experience!
Peace 2 U,
His Messenger
Proverbs 2-7 says, “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you,
turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.”
turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.”
What’s interesting about the above scripture is that the words: accept, store, turning, applying, call, cry, look and search are the strength of each sentence. They are the action words that give direction to the reader. What’s equally amazing with that verse is that the third word “if” is also incorporated in the very beginning. “If” meaning that we have a choice. When it rains, we can choose to be under an umbrella for protection or we can choose to be outside, in the rain, without an umbrella. Choosing to be outside without protection will eventually lead to sickness, rain getting into our pores and weakening the immune system. Spiritual weakness can also make us spiritually sick (sin and evil getting into the pores of our soul), if we don’t protect ourselves with the umbrella of the Lord.
You may be asking, “If I decide to take action, when will I see the results?
As a result of what Proverbs 2 instructs, verse 7 says, “He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,”
I don’t know of anyone who stores up food with the intention of cooking that same night. Usually, when things are stored up, it’s for a later purpose or when the person really needs it. Verse 7 is telling us that as long as we remain faithful to the Lord, and walk according to His instructions, He will have our victory stored up for when we really need it. This does not mean that if you set out to be “Godly” today and maintain the whole day that way, He will bless you with all that you ask for later on that night.
It means that we must do what He instructs every day, all day and when He feels that we are ready to receive our victory, He will provide. As long as we store his commands deep within us, and apply them when the obstacles/opportunities present themselves, He will promote us to a higher level.
When you learn the formula needed for true happiness and prosperity, take action and apply that knowledge. Only by actions, can anything get done. What good are tools, if they remain in the tool box? Those tools will not be used for what they were created for, if no one picks them up. The same applies to us. What good are we if we stay within the confines of our own comfort and minds? We will not be used for what we were created for if we do not apply the knowledge we learn and take a step towards God. Based on His word, that is all we need to do in order for Him to work within us.
James 4:7-8 says, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.”
So, go after that job that you felt led to apply for, clean that part of your home that you have been avoiding , work at what God has inspired you to do (but maybe you have been procrastinating), reach out to that person that you have been ignoring (but feel in your heart that you needed to speak with), be kind to that person who may not deserve it (in your eyes), read that book that you have been thinking about reading, take that leap of faith in a new direction that you have flirted with in the past (for your betterment, of course), tell that person, whom you may have quarreled with, that you love them and do your part in strengthening your relationship with God (by way of reading/studying His word, praying, and fellowshipping with those who have that same interest). Take action over your life and prepare yourself for an unexplainable experience!
Peace 2 U,
His Messenger
Friday, July 13, 2012
It takes 9 months to form a life but...
While on your journey, we must understand that it takes 9 months to form a life but a lifetime for that life to form.
The span of that lifetime can either be long or short. Regardless of this fact, we must use each day as a chance to get closer to our goal of being a complete being, inside and out. Aiding in the progression of others should be our goal, developing the progression within ourselves is the first step.
By the grace and mercy of God you can reach your destiny and live out the purpose He has for you. His living word will serve as your road map and provide the light you need, when your travels lead you down paths of darkness.
Psalm 119:105 says "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."
James a.k.a. His Messenger
True love isn't found, it's built...
True love isn't found, its built...
Respect, understanding, dedication and humility are some of the tools that help build this love. What’s crazy is, you don't have to be qualified to work on this project--you just have to have the will to GET THE JOB DONE!
Is the love you seek, for you, worth the time it deserves? Take the extra time and time COULD give you an extra take.
The word of God says it best in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
James a.k.a. His Messenger
P.s. The essence of true love is not created by an e-motion but rather starts with a motion.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
What does it mean to do the will of God in your life?
One of the most popular questions for all man-kind is “what was I created for”? The desire to discover our purpose on earth is one that has haunted me for a long time. If you believe that God created the earth, and then He created us, then you must believe that there was a purpose behind it. A creator ALWAYS creates with intent. A musician writes a song for others to hear, writers write stories for others to read and artists draw to enlighten the minds of others. So God, being the ultimate Creator, definitely created us with a plan in mind. I want to know what God created me for and what His will for my life is, don’t you?
As I was lying in bed last night, I started to think about this concept. See, I used to think that doing “God’s Will” in my life meant doing what He created me to do. Things that would advance the Kingdom by way of serving, ministering, evangelizing or simply reaching out to others and spreading the Good News by using the gifts He has given me.
Although this will eventually be the case, I’m not sure if that truly is His will for us. I think that may be a result of doing His will but not the will itself. After reading the scriptures, I believe that doing God’s will in our lives means taking advantage of the time He has given us to strengthen, or establish, a relationship with Him by way of reading His word, prayer and worship. That must be done first, then the service will come naturally.
Does God want us to represent Him unto the world? Yes. Does He want us to reflect Him so that others may be drawn to Him, through us? Yes. However, in order for that to happen we must be doing our best to exude Christ-like character. In order to do that, we must learn about the life of Christ and apply that to our own. For a long time, I thought doing God’s will meant actually serving Him, through works, for the advancement of the Kingdom. Sometimes, I get caught up in asking Him to show me what His will for my life is (which really means, I want to know what He created me for) when I’m learning that what He wants, first and foremost, is for us to choose to develop a relationship with Him.
In the book of John, chapter 6 verses 38-40, Jesus said, “For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will. And this is the will of God, that I should not lose even one of all those he has given me, but that I should raise them up at the last day. For it is my Father’s will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life."
Jesus mentions two of the most powerful declarations in that verse:
1) The will of God, for Him, was to NOT lose all that He has given Him. With this, the question arises: How could Jesus “lose” us? Well friends, in one of the most amazing revelations the Bible has to offer, Jesus could have lost us if He was disobedient to God. See, He was the blueprint for how we are supposed to live. If He would have reacted, in a fleshly way, to those who mistreated and abused Him, then we would be doing the same, in the name of Jesus. If He would have disobeyed the command of Love and reacted with negativity, then we would be doing the same and pointing to Jesus to justify it.
Hypothetically, if that only happened once in the Bible, throughout all the wonders and miracles Jesus did, people would use that to discredit the word of God and not follow Him. Some would build religions off of it just to satisfy their own understanding. He did God’s will in His life by being obedient to God with how He lived. Therefore, Jesus did God's will in His life, by not losing us, because He was obedient to what God wanted. He lived how God intended Him to live, which resulted in Him fulfilling the mission that God had called Him to do.
2) Jesus said that God’s will is for “all who see his Son and believe in him” to have eternal life. Most of us can relate to the fact that one of the key ways that we believe in Jesus is due to how he lived. Jesus didn’t come just so that you, or me, can write amazing books for God, produce good music for God or go into the world and talk about God. Jesus came so that we may believe in God, give our lives to God and glorify God with what we do, say or think. The other stuff mentioned (books, music and going into the world), WILL COME AS A RESULT OF THAT.
The Bible says (in Luke 10:27), when an expert of the law (given by God) asked Jesus “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus referred him back to the word. The expert said “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus replied, “You have answered correctly, do this and you will live.” Jesus clearly instructed that the key to eternal life is to love God with our heart, mind and soul and to love our neighbors. He did not mention to create Godly music, write Godly books or preach the Godly message to the world. He simply stated that the ingredients to eternal life was to love God first (which involves having a relationship with Him) and love others second. Loving God with your heart, mind and soul requires consistent commitment to developing a relationship with Him. We achieve that by reading His word and applying what it says to our lives.
Ironically enough, the story of Mary and Martha follows this statement in Luke 10:38, which is a great illustration of those who may get caught up with serving God vs. those who understand the importance of intimacy with Him. I HIGHLY SUGGEST that you check out that story.
And for those that think, because you pray in tongues, have knowledge of the bible, tithe and live in great faith, you are doing all that God has called you to do, think again. Paul says it best in 1 Corinthians 13:2:
"If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing."
In closing, I encourage each of you, who have made it this far, to continue strengthening your relationship with God. That is what He requires of us. In terms of us utilizing the skills He gave us to add to the Kingdom, He will open those doors when the time is right. I repeat, WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT. When I say, “right timing” I mean that when He opens those doors, we will be able to handle what He puts before us, with the mind of Christ.
"For it is my Father’s will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life." (John 6:40)What will they "see"? Jesus. How will they believe in Him? By His works. What allows HIm to work in that manner? His union with God, the Father, and the Holy Spirit, as they gave Him the ability to do so. Don’t worry about Him telling you exactly what job He has for you or what car or what skill to grow, just put focus towards spending as much time with Him, and in His word, as possible. He will take care of the rest. It will only be through encountering the grace, love and mercy through an intimate relationship with Jesus that will prompt you to spread what you've learned with others.
Peace 2 U,
James a.k.a. His Messenger
Monday, July 9, 2012
Cover your wounds with His cloth...
Family,
You know how when you cut yourself, you begin to bleed? As a result of the overflow of blood our first reaction is to wipe away the blood and put a band aid over it, in an attempt to clog the blood flow. This action will then result in stoppage, thus giving the wound a chance to begin healing. Once the flow is clogged, the healing process will begin and, in due time, a scab will form on your wound. It may leave a scar, but will eventually heal.
Well such is the same when we endure emotional or mental wounds. Sometimes, the blood flow (in the form of doubt, depression, worry, anger etc.), as a result of those wounds, wouldn’t allow for a healing process, IF WE LET IT. I encourage you all to put a band aid (The promises of God, through His word), or clog this overflow of blood from your wound, to begin your healing process. Sure, it may leave a scar but it will be a constant reminder of what Christ has done in and for you.
For those that know what I’m going through at the moment, I may sound like a hypocrite. But forgive me for I am not. I actually really did cut myself as I was washing dishes this weekend (don’t judge me) and I clogged it. Yesterday I noticed that a scab (sorry for those who just had lunch) was beginning to form and the healing process was began. As I was having lunch today, I looked at my hand, thought about what I saw and the Holy Spirit spoke to me. He gave me this analogy to help folks, myself included, see how our natural healing process when inflicted with wounds can apply to our emotional and spiritual healing process when inflicted by the attacks of the enemy.
In closing, clog your wounds with the bandages of Christ and His word, for they will stop the overflow of any doubt or depression or worry that may try to overtake you as a result of what you’re going through.
Your brother in Christ,
James a.k.a. His Messenger
Trials can become TRAILS
LISTEN: Trials, when you switch the letters around, are just TRAILS that can lead you deeper towards God's favor and direction. The tranformation begins within, just like swtiching the word around #notmywordsbutHIS
James a.k.a. His Messenger
Skill + Strength = Success
"If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed but skill will bring success." - Ecclesiastes 10:10
For much of my life, I've been a dull ax. A weapon God made to help break down the worlds barriers, but I allowed myself 2 get caught up, hence being dull & not spiritually sharp. God's strength, in me, is helping me see the light. As long as I stay close to Him, and allow Him 2 work in me, the SKILLZ He gave me will bring success. Enough for me to prosper so that I can help others do the same, by the power of the Holy Spirit.
James a.k.a. His Messenger
Don't burn your house down before you build it...
Don't burn your house down before you build it. First, chose the land (it's pre-paid and YOU ALREADY ARE APPROVED), then lay down the foundation (accepting Christ), then put up the 4 walls (love, courage, faith, obedience) and after that your roof will be His covering (protection/blessings). A house is only as strong as the nuts and bolts that hold it together. In this case, Knowledge and Wisdom are those nuts and bolts. #BUILD
Immersing ourselves in His presence, brings forth a glow...
There is no coincidence that when people travel to other countries, little by little they adapt to that country’s culture. If there long enough, they begin to talk, walk and maneuver like those of the native land. Adapting is natural for us. It’s a form of survival which has been built in our instinctive DNA. And if the place that we are in adds value to our character, personality and moral being, then adapting (through knowledge of the culture and its history) would naturally become important. We are all trying to get better, aren’t we?
I say this because I am learning more and more how being in God’s presence helps us become a reflection Him. Most importantly, love as He loves and stand firm against the evil powers and principalities (Ephesians 6:12) of the world as Jesus did when He walked the earth. Being in His presence by way of reading, praying, worship, fellowshipping with others, WILL help add value to our character, personality and moral being.
If I spend much of my time with someone who has a certain scent, let’s say flowers, eventually I am going to smell like flowers. On the flip side of that, if I spend much of my time at the garbage dump, sooner or later I’m going to smell like garbage. I totally believe that we should be out there in the world, having non-Christian friends, with the intent of sharing the Good News and potentially assisting the Lord in leading those Christ. Throughout our entire day (24 hours) we must be cloaked (physically and mentally) with the cloth of Christ. Let’s wrap ourselves in the threads of the very fabric that brought us our salvation, through fellowship with the Holy Spirit, the love of Jesus.
When Moses was on the mountain for 40 days/40 nights (no bread or water), while writing the commandments that God was giving Him, he came down from the mountain completely different. The scripture (Exodus 34:29) says, “When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord.” Moses wasn’t even aware of this as he didn’t go up to the mountain with this glow. It came about as he spent consistent and dedicated time with the Lord. We are also able to receive this glow, given that we follow the same format. I’m not telling anyone to go 40 days without food or water, but I am encouraging devoted and dedicated time to God.
What I love the most was how they (the Israelites), saw the Lord in Moses and feared him. The very next verse reads, “When Aaron and all the Israelites saw Moses, his face was radiant, and they were afraid to come near him.” What makes this line so powerful and beautiful is that the fear the Israelites had, was the same fear they showed when the Lord had attempted to speak to them, in Exodus 20:18 “When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance and said to Moses, “Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die.” It wasn’t Moses that they were truly afraid of, it was the presence of God, upon Moses, that scared them.
Friends, this world does not like us, as it hated Jesus. The enemy is here to steal, kill and destroy all that we have and do. His main purpose is to prevent us from living out the will of God in our lives, while trying to separate the union of the body of Christ. Ex: If he can have two believers arguing (even over biblical principle) then he’s winning. But TAKE COMFORT THAT THE BATTLE WAS WON 2000 YEARS AGO!
Let’s immerse ourselves in the presence of God. I am just now realizing the importance of this as I have been attacked lately. But prayer, reading and listening to Gospel music, along with the encouraging words of other believers, has allowed me to change my attitude and perspective on things. Considering how that is only done by the grace, mercy and power of the Lord, I can guarantee that the same will happen to you.
The key is not to be feared by others, but for others to see the Lord in us. This is done by the fruits that we display when faced with the world’s issues and the enemy’s attacks. Immersing yourself in the Lord will help you gain His character, therefore when we are faced with trial and tribulation, as the word guarantees (James 1), we will process it with the mind of Christ, react with the strength of Christ and speak with the authority of Christ. Those outside of the presence of God serve as punching bags to the enemy. Throughout the storm, they stand naked, wet and cold, without Hope or Faith in better days ahead, outside the protection of the one who loves them the most. I was one of those folks until I learned the power and grace of the Lord. I’m still learning and still seeking to immerse myself in Him, daily.
I pray that you all find this love note helpful while on your journey as the Lord put this on my heart for the sole purpose of encouraging others.
Peace 2 U,
James a.k.a. His Messenger
The Balloon and the Piñata
You know,
I was thinking about how a balloon symbolizes many of us in this world. Appealing to the eye on the outside but hollow on the inside. Many believers in Christ also have this issue as they look the part in, their outer shell, but when it comes to what's inside they, too, are hollow.
Then, I thought of how a piñata (mainly used for birthday parties) is the opposite. Piñatas, unlike balloons, are filled with "goodies" and they, too, are appealing to the eye (from the outside looking in). However, they have to be broken, or ripped, for others to enjoy what lies inside. Stick with me, there is a point to this. I'm going to go on the limb here and say that true Christ followers are more like piñatas. Filled with the God’s “goodie’s” or spiritual fruit (kindness, gentleness, love, peace, joy, self control) for the sole purpose of benefiting others (as a part of doing His will). Once our outer shell (flesh) is broken (just like a regular piñata) all who are around us can enjoy what is inside of us. God is breaking us in many ways, old habits, attitudes, mind sets and misconceptions in order to re-build us. His purpose for re-building us is so that we can nourish others with the fruit we bear. Consider it a re-construction phase. When a balloon is broken, or popped, no body benefits. Point is, take joy when others "beat you up" like a 7-yr old at his birthday party for God is allowing this to happen so that, once broken, the world can enjoy the fruits of the spirit that grow deep inside of you. Peace 2 U, James a.k.a. His Messenger |
Their are no shortcuts in life, according to God
If you feel like your journey towards fulfilling your destiny is taking longer than needed, I encourage you to allow the word of God, taken from the book of Exodus, to provide some comfort for you along the way. Many of us would love the chance to take the “easy” road in life to get to where we are going. Shortcuts are created all over the place to cut time and “speed up the process”. In life, the idea of escaping the “blood, sweat and tears” portion of our journey to success/living out our purpose is tempting to some. I often used to pray for the Lord to show me what He had planned for me. How easy would it be for God to just tell me what He wanted me to do for Him vs. me seeking the scripture, praying and developing my relationship with Him, consistently? I realized I was trying to take the easy way out. God is not in the business of allowing us to take shortcuts in life. He has given Himself the responsibility to work in and through us, until the end of time. The purpose of this is to make sure that our hearts are for Him and not for us.
I’m here to tell you that this theory, of shortcuts through life, is of the world as God did not intend for our journey to be this way. The purpose of our walk with Him is to allow Him to renew our minds and transform our hearts, which takes time. The above passage which highlights the beginning of the Exodus (God’s people being freed from slavery in Egypt and led to the promised land) shows 3 things:
1) God is always in the lead if, and when, we allow Him. As it says in verse 17 “God did not lead them along the road…” and 18 “So He led the people”. Even though God appointed Moses to take charge, He was still, and always is, in control. Amen! Don’t allow the pace of your race to dictate who is in charge. God is in as much control of your life as you allow Him to be.
2) God isn’t on a time schedule; He is more concerned with helping us develop a true heart for Him. “God did not lead them along the road to the land of the Philistines, even though it was nearby; for God said, “The people will change their minds and return to Egypt if they face war.” He could have taken them on the “easy” path towards the Promised Land, but He knew that trouble was ahead and that His people weren’t prepared to deal with it, as He intended them to. If you accepted Christ in your heart today, will you be able to carry out the responsibilities He has for you in 3 days? No. It’s a process and takes time.
God wants and wishes for us to get to the Promised Land, but He isn’t too concerned with the destination because it is already established and available for all who do what they must to get there. He is concerned with the journey, that’s where He gets His hands dirty in order to make us clean. We must unlearn the knowledge of the world and learn the knowledge of Christ. Who we are (in Christ) vs. How we’ve become (in the world) are 2 different perspectives. HOW we’ve become doesn’t define WHO we are.
3) God also showed much compassion and understanding for His children due to their lack of knowledge. He shows that same compassion and understanding towards us today. It almost seemed that He displayed the theory that, it isn’t about Him (although it His) but about taking His time to give His children what they need to succeed. “The people will change their minds and return to Egypt if they face war.” According to that part of the scripture, God knew that His people weren’t ready to face war. WE ALL KNOW that the power of God is so strong that He can allow one chosen man to defeat an army of 10,000 men, Hallelujah! Even if all the Jews were to go back to Egypt, if one stayed, God could have provided him will all the power needed to face the war but that didn’t happen.
He didn’t want them to change their minds nor did He have a mentality of “whoever is ready and willing I will deal with them and whoever isn’t, they are on their own”. He purposely took them on the longer journey in order to properly prepare them for what they will encounter. In my humble opinion, I feel that this was a sign that the process/journey is more important than the destination. As stated earlier, the destination will not change…the Promised Land isn’t going anywhere. However, those who have the ability to call it home could miss out if they aren’t prepared for the road that lies ahead. In our natural minds, many of us would love to take shortcuts in life. But God knows that this will harm us more than we think it can help.
If you are feeling like your journey is taking long and that it doesn’t seem like things are getting any better, trust that God is in the lead. Trust that He isn’t in a rush, although the sooner the better as we have a duty to Him for the aid of others, and is patient with those who are willing to fully submit to Him. Lastly, trust that He understands what we are going through and has compassion for where we are in our present lives. Not that He will tolerate consistent deliberate disobedience, as he will discipline us accordingly, but He will have compassion for our lack of knowledge and provide all the tools needed for us to learn.
Again, if you feel that this course is never-ending or that it’s taking longer than “you think” it should take for you to reach the destination that God has prepared for you, understand that He is in control. He may be saving you from resulting to your old ways when things get too tough for us to handle. Continue to submit and allow Him to guide you. He is not going to take you down the shorter route if He knows that your heart isn’t fully committed to Him. The longer path is actually a blessing in disguise. Let’s appreciate the things that we may not understand as it is all a part of His plan.
Let the love of God be your path towards His grace and freedom, Amen.
James Oyola a.k.a His Messenger
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