Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

James 1:12 (NASB)

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you think, “this is unreal, I can’t believe what I’m hearing, seeing, witnessing” and kind of stood still as if you were the proverbial deer staring straight into the headlights?

Well, I’m sure quite a bit of you can relate to what I’ve just said. And we have found ourselves in circumstances, or surroundings that echo that of which I’ve just kind of described.

For example, take the “state of affairs” that is happening in our country, and in the world today.  So many things transpiring that are unknown, and unfamiliar to that which we were accustomed.  Ideologies changing as rapidly as the wind, and callous behavior blatantly displayed on social media, news, and right before our very eyes.

It seems “unreal.”  It’s as if we want to emerge from a sinking hole or pull ourselves out of an abysmal reality that clashes with our spiritual beliefs. Hardships in one form or another, finances, health, unemployment, food shortages, etc., etc.

But before you think, “wow she’s off on a gloom and doom post” — not so.  Although world affairs, country woes, or personal issues may in fact be testing our cords of faith.  The one true certain throughout this whole ordeal…is GOD.

He is the reality of our existence.  And with God we can always count on truth and personal accord of satisfaction and assurance that no matter what we endure… our LORD loves us for sure!

That is reason to rejoice irrespective of critical analysis of life in general.  It is a reason to take heed and embrace the blessings that only GOD can bring.

It is a reality and an affirmation of His love that allows us to float serenely through a raging river. It is His very love that lifts us above the cesspool of life. And it is His love that gives us insight into innocuous behavior and activities that swirl by our daily lives continuously.

Reality is knowing His promises will sustain us and provide all that we need.

Reality is knowing His Word is truth and the balm of our very souls.

Reality is knowing His love surpasses all human comprehension.

Reality is knowing His blood gave us access to Him and salvation.

Reality is knowing Jesus is the only way to the Father…and Eternal rewards.

So, while viewing things that are “hard to bear” while watching life change in a way that is dysmorphic to what we believe, and put our faith in. Realize the reality is, ” this is our temporary home.”  There is a far better place we will all return to one day. He promised, so therefore it is true.  He told us so Himself.

Until then, look to Him for all the answers, and trust that He is in control, no matter what it seems like right now.

Hold on, hang in there…because this life is fleeting, compared to the reality of Eternity.

“Father God, thank You for showing me the vision of reality which is You, Your promises and Your love. It is because of You that life, although kaleidoscopic in both good and evil, only one true certainty exists and that is You and Your love, and rewards of eternal life. May I be ever mindful and rely on You in all I do, today, tomorrow and always in Jesus’ name, Amen.” 

For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

2 Corinthians 5:1

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12 (KJV)

Hearing the Word, to those of faith, is uplifting and encouraging, thereby strengthening our spirit, ultimately drawing us closer to God. By putting His Word into play, every day enables our roots in Christ, to grow deeper and more clarified, as we do all according to His will, and His say.

His voice is clearly apparent as we read the Bible, with various verses “speaking” to us.  How we apply that to the foundations of our life can be challenging at times, especially when undergoing situations that distract us from the Word.  That’s when the enemy tries to “sneak” into our lives.  When we are under stress, going through an ordeal, or standing by a family member or friend who is not in a particularly good place…the enemy will invariably “whisper lies” in your ears.  This is when we cannot be discouraged, in fact…we must be more encouraged than ever.  This is the time to really cling to Him and offer praise and thanks, for all He is, and trust Him to bring us out of the “ruins” and bring us to the “beauty” in the aftermath.

God’s Word is powerful!

It means to say that God’s Word has God’s power and His energy. Because it’s God’s word, it’s undefeatable. The Bible invariably has all the components and essentially life and power of God, teaching us, guiding us, reminding us, encouraging us, and infiltrating our souls.

Isaiah 55 says “the word of God does not return void” it does His work, powerfully, because the Word of God is alive and powerfully moving.

When we align our lives with His Word and “listen to what He has to say” each day, and do all according to His will, we are living with purpose and depth.

Each of us have various things to do, some more than others, or some may be at the crossroads of their lives trying to figure out what to do next.  We are all different in appearance, living in different areas, places, different likes and dislikes, bodily types vary, yet there is one thing that becomes our common denominator—we are all EQUAL in God’s eyes.  No one is better than the other, and we are all sinners, falling short of perfection.  There is only One perfect Being, the LORD!

We can make a godly impact upon others by being a witness for the LORD.  Starting the day with His Word, and listening to what He has to say, is an outstanding way to demonstrate His Omnipotence, by being an example.  A divine life can be reflected in our actions, and purpose, as we walk in the way of God.

Trusting in Him is crucial to the dimension of our spirit. We can be a one-dimensional type of individual.  Or we can be three dimensional, by the application of faith, surrender and love for God.  We will continue to grow when we trust, listen, apply and speak to Him from our heart, and know that He is front and center in all we do.

Obedience to Him, following His Word becomes joyful because we know it is wise, and has the biggest rewards.   Look beyond the present moment and realize that the end result is a life well lived.  Our dependence upon God enhances each step of the way, every single day for all the days on earth, and beyond!

“Father God, thank You for Your inspiring Word, and for Your love and guidance, may I do all according to Your will, and may I be an example to others by honoring You every single day of my life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

The LORD is everlasting to everlasting and His Word affirms that which is truth. His purpose and plan for our lives unfold continuously since the beginning of time and shall till the end of the age…and beyond.

His Gospel, Word, truth is “everlasting” in that it is an eternally unchanging message.  False messages and teachings will come and go. (Ephesians 4:14) And like the wind, blowing furiously every which way, creating at times, chaotic destructive and extremely dangerous pathways.

God’s message of salvation through faith and belief in Christ, brings eternal truth, which is solid and everlasting as God Himself.  For those of us that believe brings rewards, that are beyond a full scale of comprehension, at this time. However, we have a moderate grasp of knowledge to understand His plan overall.

His everlasting love is tied into a vast menu of promises throughout the Bible.  His unwavering love stretches across the Universe, irrespective of race, creed, color…His love has no bearing on outer appearances…instead it’s about what’s in the heart of the individual. He wants our love. (Hosea 6:6)

Whereas humanity can blow hot and cold, God’s love is a perfect climate that engulfs His followers, akin to soothing balm of liquid gold.

Knowing He is with us always, never leave us, and has a plan for all of us is amazing in every way.

Of course, Christ going to the cross for us, surpasses all else…and truly is the biggest gift of all!

“Father, thank You for all You are, all You do, and all You continue to do, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Isaiah 46:9-11 (ESV) 

Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,’ calling a bird of prey from the east, the man of my counsel from a far country. I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it.

In my distress I prayed to the LORD,

and the LORD answered me and set me free.

Psalm 118:5 (NLT)

God hears our voice before we even speak, He knows our thoughts, and realizes our needs, way before we even know what they may be. He knows our hearts, and we can’t fool Him even if we tried.  But then again…who would want to?

Calling out to God isn’t just some “ritualistic” or “perfunctory” part of our lives, at least it shouldn’t be.  Rather it should be a continuous path of free-flowing love, that overlaps everything we do from the moment we wake, until the moment we fall asleep.  Then the next day it should continue where we left off.  It’s a circuitous reflection of living while glorifying and exalting Him in all we do. How? It is by our behavior, our thoughts, our hearts, and our trust and belief that He is the One true God Almighty, our Omnipotent Father of lights, our King of kings and Lord of lords. Amen!

Belief and trust are a connection that grows deeper each time we pray and reach for His Word.  Spending time with our Father is rewarding spiritually, emotionally, and physically.  It enhances all aspects of our being, as we talk to Him and trust in the Great I AM.

How we approach Him, how we feel about Him, and how we follow Him in all His ways, is tantamount to being a Christian, and fundamentally the biggest part of who we are as “His children.” Which in fact should be reflected from within to all those we encounter everyday.

There is an awesome power in prayer, and it opens up pathways for us to walk upon. Paths that are straight and indestructible (spiritually) because of a relationship with Him.  It provides a balance of peace and confidence, because of His Sovereign power, which is an extension of who we are, when we believe and accept Him in our lives.

The work and the power of the Holy Spirit is phenomenal.

(Romans 8:26-28) He is with us always and intercedes for us…our Helper…the Holy Spirit guides, leads, directs, and gives us wisdom to know right from wrong.  He will lift us from the pits of despair, and set us on the highest mountain top, while His Spirit soothes us with His balm of love.

In fact, sometimes the Holy Spirit will “burden us” to pray, because He knows “what’s coming” for us down the road, and He wants us to seek Him fervently. It is a feeling that “lays upon our hearts”  It’s powerful. It’s beyond human comprehension.  But it’s true and real and oh so magnificent.

Tune in to Him in prayer and get ready for how life will change for the better.  Having a deep intimate relationship with God doesn’t mean “dire circumstances” won’t happen to us. But it does mean that He will guide us through issues that we ordinarily wouldn’t get through without His strength and love.

Next time we take time to pray, we must realize that it’s beyond words what’s happening as God listens and “speaks” to us.

He is listening.

He is with us.

He will guide us.

He will provide and sustain us continuously, even if it’s not the “outcome” we’re looking for.

His will is always perfect.

His answers are always on time.

Finally, His response to prayer is always best for each and every one of us.

“My LORD, thank You for listening to my voice, even when I’m not speaking, I know You are faithful, and always want what’s best for me, I love my time with You, and I love Your promises, and Your word, may I be a faithful servant and please You in all I do, today, tomorrow and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

God is love, and His love cannot be described as we understand love, for His capacity to love us supersedes our ability to love Him.  It is beyond our basic understanding, in this realm, to grasp, or comprehend His love.  His quality of love differs tremendously from our own. 

Many believe that we do not deserve His love…which in actuality, we probably don’t.  However, God died for us, while we were still sinners, and in so doing, revealed just how prolific His love is for us.  There is no need to ponder, just how much He loves us, and He will always love us, as the Bible promises He will.

Love, by definition, is a commitment to the peace, joy, security, satisfaction, and development of another person and His well-being. To put that person in front of our own needs, and place that individual first.

God’s love is not based on emotions, like regular love…His love flows out of His changeless character. God is love, the Bible tells us so.   He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. (John 4:8)

It is impossible for Him to do anything outside of His nature, and thus, His love will remain certain and dependable…forever.   And that is what He is, by definition–a Sovereign, Omnipotent, Prolific, Dependable God, of which His love we can be certain.  His love and mercy will endure forever.

God’s love is our gift, a priceless and totally immeasurable gift. God offers it to us freely, willingly, lovingly…independently of our feelings. Whether we think we deserve His love or not.  It is separate and distinct from our feelings towards Him. His love is open, pure, and overwhelming. His love is indeed a gift, and it is good.   Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is not variation or shadow of turning. (James 1:17)

God and His flawless character is boldly revealed throughout the Bible, time and time again… and throughout our lives–If, we take the time to get to know Him–I mean really know Him.

When we know Him, things will begin to materialize, and eventually will create a clearer picture.  We will be able to recognize His character, and be certain of His love, and feel the peace of this revelation seemingly in everything we do or say.

Our Father is perfect, and furthermore His love is perfect.  Every one of His characteristics represents perfection, and could not be improved to any degree.

How can perfection be perfected? He is that He is, and all that He is, represents love, certainty…and dependability.  He will always treat us lovingly in accordance to His love.

We walk under His banner of love, His canopy of love.  He loves us, and always will.  He loves us, even when we stray from the fold, His love is changeless.

He loves us when we wander from His will, or fall into some kind of mishap that defies His commandments…His love is certain.

He loves us when we disobey Him, and fall prey to foolish things that flesh sometimes can do…His love is dependable.

He loves us, unconditionally, purely and without any doubt. We walk under His banner/canopy of love.  So, never think for one moment, that He would walk away in dismay, for His love endures. The canopy never falls…and we cannot dismantle it.  God erected the canopy, and therefore it is impregnable.  It is unchanging, it is certain, and ever dependable.

God and His love…how amazing is that?

How amazing is He?

Just release any misconceptions or doubts about His love.

Just accept He loves us, before we were born, while we’re here on earth, and will love us when He calls us home.

So, rejoice under His canopy/banner, and smile knowing “He loves us“– in no uncertain terms, and that is something we can depend on forever…Amen~

“And Father how grateful we are to have You as the Master and Creator who provides, nurtures, protects, and loves us with the intensity of which none can match, thank You for being You and accepting us and loving us no matter what, to be under Your canopy is a treasure and a gift, thank You in Jesus name, Amen.”

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” 

Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

We all need to “rid” ourselves of anything that will grieve the Holy Spirit’s work in our life, or temper with our countenance that would otherwise be contrary to Christ.

Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)  “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

Because we’re human there’s going to be times, we will encounter individuals or situations that will test “our patience and spirit” therefore bringing us to a path in which Christ would not approve. 

A wrong path ultimately is responsible for destroying happiness, and overturning the apple cart bringing forth “spoiled fruit.”  We don’t want to do that, we need to let our “inner spirit” guide us, and allow Him to lead us onto the right path, by trusting in God, always. It will bring peace and health to your spirit and joy to your life overall. (Proverbs 3:5-8)

As we walk through life it is best to do so with compassion, kindness and most especially with “forgiveness” as the LORD has done for us and continues to do so to this very day.

Our LORD and Savior walked this earth with compassion and a Spirit of forgiveness.  While we fix our eyes firmly on Christ, and follow Him, we too should walk with a Spirit of forgiveness.  Watching our tongue, being careful to uplift and encourage where we may, and seasoning pour speech with salt and not bitterness, will empower us to walk a path of righteousness and forgiveness.

God didn’t leave us without supernatural help on our journey here on earth, He gave us the gift of the “Holy Spirit” our comforter.

As believers we are conformed to Christ the moment we accept Him as our personal Savior. This conformance comes from believing Christ’s death, burial, resurrection, and ascension.

Romans 6:3 teaches that we’re baptized into the death of Christ.

Thank You LORD and to that I say, “Come Holy Spirit” and conform us into the image of Christ!

“Father, help me to walk the path in which I should, help me to be a witness of Your love and light, guide me, lead me, direct me, heal me, in all thy ways, help me conform to the image of Christ,  help me to be compassionate and a forgiving nature to others daily, and may I do all according to Your will, today, tomorrow, always, in Jesus ‘name, Amen.”

He is not here, for He has risen,

just as He said.

Come, see the place where He was lying.

Matthew 28:6

Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

He is Risen!

Jesus Christ, our LORD and Savior!  He is Risen!

Do you know this love of Christ? 

His love is a love so significant and so intense, that it truly surpasses all means of human comprehension.

It is a love that forgives.

It is a love that heals.

It is a love that frees us from the bondage of sin.

It is a love that completes and unifies a wholeness in body, soul and mind.

It is a love that is bonded by His grace.

It is a love that ultimately allows us to live, not only here on earth, but for Eternity.

As humans, we are invariably in a cycle of sin. No matter how hard we try, we are flesh/human, and we cannot stop sinning of our “own accord.”  Sin will separate us from God, and sin has only one outcome. We need Jesus for the absolution and forgiveness. He is the way, the truth, and the life.

Thank the LORD for His Son, Jesus Christ, who laid down His life for us.

He paid for our sins, in full!

His ultimate sacrifice frees us from bondage/sin, and ultimately restores us fully thereby giving us access to His throne to have an intimate relationship with God. Amen!

Without Jesus, there is no light, and a huge void. And those with a void tend to fill it with other things, which can be hazardous, dangerous and addictive, ugly or evil.

The real peace and contentment come from knowing Jesus and accepting Jesus.

It’s by grace and love that we are forgiven. Jesus paid a horrific price for that freedom, and it’s the greatest gift and love of a lifetime.

Have you received His gift?  

Have you received His love?

It doesn’t happen automatically.   You must willingly receive it.  And accept Him as the LORD and Savior, and open your heart to Him, and His love, and invite Him in.

It all begins by declaring your love for Him.  And accepting Him as the Son of God. When we do that, the Holy Spirit will come and live inside of us, and we will be saved.  What a gift indeed!

He was risen to life again and reigns in heaven.

He wants us to know Him and be with Him, now and for all time.

When you pray sincerely and open up and invite Him into Your life, you are restored to a new beginning, and will gain inroads to a fascinating and incredible relationship with Him.

Accept Him, because no one gets to the Father, without Jesus! Amen!

“Dear Lord, I am sorry for my sins, and turn from them, I know You died on the cross and were resurrected to life again, I love You Lord,  I know and believe You are my Savior and Lord, thank You for the Holy Spirit, and for coming into my heart when I accepted You, thank You for forgiving me, and cleansing me, I honor You, today, tomorrow, always, thank You Father, for Your only begotten Son, for giving the gift of Eternal life in Paradise when called home, may I do all according to Your will and purpose, in Jesus name, Amen.”

According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 3:10-11

As followers of Christ, it’s essential to build our spiritual foundation, which in turn is vital to life, both here and in eternity. By adhering to God and submitting to His will, wisdom, and commandments, we are slowly building a ground that is secure in Christ and His values overall.

Envision if you will, a road that is treacherous and decidedly perilous as we navigate the road, we are reticent about walking upon it.  However, walking with the LORD, we are able to gain sure footing, because our foundation is built upon the LORD, thereby giving us easy access over the rough paths in which we walk.

Our invisible shield becomes “transparent” in all we endeavor, because He is with us always.  He never leaves our side, He is holding us, guiding us, and leading us all the while. His promises since the beginning of time are the same today as it was way back then.  His love and promises have NO EXPIRATION date!  It is ongoing.

Foundations can be literal and metaphorical.  Christ, naturally of course, is referring to our spiritual morality.  The foundations of this world are temporary and promises of “mankind” are not guaranteed. Ostensibly, Christ and His Word are set in stone, and His foundation is forever.

Jesus’ Foundation is the one and only secure ground upon which we can “build” and “walk.” Jesus protects us from every life-threatening storm.  The ground is never shaky or dangerous with Christ.

Knowing He is with us at all times is an inherent joy of being Christian, believing in Him and His glory, brings about a countenance of peace and wisdom, that can only come from Christ, Amen.

“Father God, it’s only because of You and Your grace, we’re able to walk safely on grounds that would otherwise be shaky, with You and Your light, the ground is solid, safe and secure, I thank You today and always, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

Colossians 3:13(KJV)

Remember “love makes the world go round” a phrase that was used frequently, way back when…but seems to be lacking today, or at least it sure seems so. I one just has to turn on TV or pick up our phones streaming with news, and we see the antithesis of love all around the world, and right here in close proximity of where we live.

What can we do to offset the destructive patterns of worldly events?

We can try to fortify ourselves with an abundance of humility, and ample helpings of forbearance and love. When we clothe ourselves with “forbearance” it truly promotes and amplifies love and acceptance.

Christ demonstrated forbearance, and His love was clearly seen by His actions, His miracles, and His going to the cross willingly for all of us. His whole mission was about love and mercy, and eternal life for those of us willing to accept Him.

For individuals to live together, there must be latitude, and love enables latitude. When we love, we forbear, and forgive and adjust to various personalities, each unique and all children of God.

Sure, there are some individuals that might get on our “nerves.” Or some people who have idiosyncrasies that might send us over the edge with frustration.  But exercising temperance, and a firm commitment to Christianity, and all it entails, we’re then able to flow with a symmetry and fierce determination, that will make the LORD smile. He will be pleased by our exhibition of “love” for one another.

When we trust Him and His Word, and adhere to His will and purpose for our lives, it makes it easier to co-exist in a world of chaotic circumstances.  It makes it easier to “understand” the confusion or lack of communication that comes knocking at our doors.

Love and forbearance, represents Christ, and His Spirit is living within those of us who accepted Him as our LORD and Savior.  Are we doing all we can to align with His commandments, and His ways?  Are you following His voice?

With Palm Sunday coming up…meditate of all that Christ is.  And when we do, we can aspire to be the Children that He intended for us to be, and remember that He died for us, defeated death, and rose again.  For us!

Wow!  There are no words to define what He has done.

Love and forbearance for one another, is a good place to begin to honor Him, and exhibit our thanks, every single day from now and always. Amen!

“Father, thank You for Your love, sacrifice, and unmerited grace, may I be all that You intend for me to be, and may I honor You all the days of my life, in Jesus precious name, Amen.”

Hold tight to God, your God, just as you’ve done up to now.

Joshua 23:8 (MSG)

Joshua was warning others by instructing them to “hold tight” to the LORD. Explaining and guiding them to follow the guidelines and observe the commandments of God.

He adjured them not to depart from the ways of the LORD, and not embrace things of the “world.”  Instead, to faithfully and punctually, perform every good thing, while doing all unto the LORD.

He illustrates further, by being a witness to “all the LORD has done” for them thus far. To turn from evil, lest vast tribulations, and destruction creep into their lives, thereby bringing about an awful outcome.

Clinging tightly to God, irrespective of the circumstances we face, whether good or bad, is so important to glorify Him, and praise Him fully, faithfully every day of our lives.

It’s easy to praise God when things are going well.

Sadly, some just ignore Him, while things are breezing along on a seemingly placid sea.  Only turning to Him during rough weather.

Ostensibly, He expects praise and thanks, during the good times as well.  Or just a simple acknowledgment of His magnificence, and how much we love Him.  “Father, thank You for this moment in time, this very second, I love You and I belong to You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Holding on to values of Christianity, while demonstrating it through our actions, our words, and our thoughts, becomes easier every single day. Why? Because it’s an inherent part of who “we are.”  We are children of God!

We are warriors and soldiers, in the army of the LORD God Almighty! Therefore, we need to act as such.  We are all victorious through Christ, Amen!

Being a part of this prolific army, is to be considered blessed. And to follow the General and Royal God, is an honor that adheres to our very souls. It is inbred and infused in us, by the blood of Christ.  Thank you, LORD!

Today, praise God and follow Him in all you do.  And remember, it is He who leads, guides, directs and protects us, no matter the times, days, or situation.

To know this is to be at peace, and it’s a feeling that cannot be described or defined. To be a part of this grand army, one just has to embrace Him, accept Christ, and understand He is in control and loves us.  Trust Him, and He will do the rest, He will direct all our paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Do you know Him?  If not, may I suggest you get acquainted with the One and Only living God.  When you do, your life will change on a dime. Amen!

“Father, thank You for Your hands of grace, Your instructions, and Your unwavering love, may I do all according to Your will, today, tomorrow and always, in Christ’ precious name, Amen.”