I came across this strong poem written by Jeffrey Bethke through my little cousin (God bless her for making me listen to it).
This poem speaks about the difference between Jesus and religion. I do believe there is a huge difference between the two...in fact Jesus is greater than religion.
I personally do not experience Christianity as a Religion but as a personal RELATIONSHIP with God. I believe Jesus came to take away and brake any things standing in between Him and us, thus allowing us to personally encounter and experience Him without having to go through some sort of protocol to get to Him.
God is love and just a prayer away...
Why I hate Religion, but Love Jesus
"A poem I wrote to highlight the difference between Jesus and false religion. In the scriptures Jesus received the most opposition from the most religious people of his day. At it's core Jesus' gospel and the good news of the Cross is in pure opposition to self-righteousness/self-justification. Religion is man centered, Jesus is God-centered. This poem highlights my journey to discover this truth. Religion either ends in pride or despair. Pride because you make a list and can do it and act better than everyone, or despair because you can't do your own list of rules and feel "not good enough" for God. With Jesus though you have humble confident joy because He represents you, you don't represent yourself and His sacrifice is perfect putting us in perfect standing with God the Father"- Jefferson Bethke
What if I told you, Jesus came to abolish religion?
What if I told you getting you to vote republican, really wasn’t his mission?
Because republican doesn’t automatically mean Christian,
And just because you call some people blind, doesn’t automatically give you vision.
If religion is so great, why has it started so many wars?
Why does it build huge churches, but fails to feed the poor?
Tells single moms God doesn’t love them if they’ve ever been divorced
Yet God in the Old Testament actually calls the religious people whores
Religion preaches grace, but another thing they practice,
Tend to ridicule Gods people, they did it to John the Baptist,
Cant fix their problems, so they try to mask it,
Not realizing that’s just like sprayin perfume on a casket
Because the problem with religion is that it never gets to the core,
It’s just behavior modification, like a long list of chores.
Let’s dress up the outside, make things look nice and neat,
Its funny that’s what they do to mummies, while the corpse rots underneath,
Now I ain’t judging I’m just saying be careful of putting on a fake look,
Because there’s a problem if people only know that you’re a Christian by that little section on your facebook
In every other aspect of life you know that logics unworthy
Its like saying you play for the lakers just because you bought a jersey
But see I played this game too; no one seemed to be on to me,
I was acting like church kid, while addicted to pornography.
I’d go to church on Sunday, but on saturday getting faded,
Acting as if I was simply created to have sex and get wasted.
Spend my whole life putting on this façade of neatness,
But now that I know Jesus, I boast in my weakness.
If grace is water, then the church should be an ocean,
Cuz its not a museum for good people, it’s a hospital for the broken
I no longer have to hide my failures I don’t have to hide my sin,
Because my salvation doesn’t depend on me, it depends on him.
because when I was Gods enemy and certainly not a fan,
God looked down on me and said, “I want that man!”
Which is so different from religious people, and why Jesus called em fools
Don’t you see hes so much better than just following some rules?
Now let me clarify, I love the church, I love the bible, and I believe in sin
But my question, is if Jesus were here today, would your church let Him in?
Remember He was called a drunkard and a glutton by “religious men”
The Son of God not supported self-righteousness, not now, not then.
Now back to the topic, one thing I think is vital to mention,
How Jesus and religion are on opposite spectrums,
One is the work of God one is a man made invention,
One is the cure and one is the infection.
Because Religion says do, Jesus says done.
Religion says slave, Jesus says son,
Religion puts you in shackles but Jesus sets you free.
Religion makes you blind, but Jesus lets you see.
This is what makes religion and Jesus two different clans,
Religion is man searching for God, but Christianity is God searching for man.
Which is why salvation is freely mine, forgiveness is my own,
Not based on my efforts, but Christ’s obedience alone.
Because he took the crown of thorns, and blood that dripped down his face
He took what we all deserved, that’s why we call it grace.
While being murdered he yelled “father forgive them, they know not what they do”,
Because when he was dangling on that cross, he was thinking of you
He paid for all your sin, and then buried it in the tomb,
Which is why im kneeling at the cross now saying come on there’s room
So know I hate religion, in fact I literally resent it,
Because when Jesus cried It is finished, I believe He meant it.
Failure, Fear, Faith, Faithfulness, Forgiveness, Freedom, Fruitfulness, Future...
We're on with the "F" series! Go and FLOURISH!!! ;-)
FAILURE
When you've messed up...
The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.
Psalm 37: 23-24
When you're feeling inadequate...
Not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hair on your heads are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. (oh Yes! can I hear an AMEN???) Matthew 10: 29-31
God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and sel-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7
When you're ready to try again...
I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3: 13-14
FAITH
When you're wondering why faith is important...
Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.
Hebrews 11:1
FAITHFULNESS
When you question God's faithfulness...
God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind. Has He ever spoken and failed to act? Has He ever promised and not carried it through?
Numbers 23:19
When you've been unfaithful to God...
If we are unfaithful, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny who He is.
2 Tomothy 2:13
Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning.
Lamentations 3:23
FEAR
When your worst fears come true...
When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.
Isaiah 4: 3-2
When you're in danger...
The Lord is my light and my salvation- so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?... Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attavked, I will remain confident.
Psalm 27: 1-3
When you're feeling alone and vulnerable...
Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
When you must confront your fears...
See, God has come to save me. I will trust in Him and not be afraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; He has given me victory.
Isaiah 12:2
FORGIVENESS
When you feel your sins are too horrible and too many to forgive...
The Lord is slow to anger and filled with unfailing love , forgiving every kind of sin and rebellion.
Numbers 14:18
I-yes, I alone- will blot out your sins for my own sake and will never think of them again.
Isaiah 43:25
When you need to forgive someone else...
When you're praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins too.
Mark 11:25
Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Colossians 3:13
FREEDOM
When you're feeling trapped in a sinful way of life...
Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God's grace.
Romans 6:14
FRUITFULNESS
When you want to be used by God to accomplish His work...
The godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted to the Lord's own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age thehy will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green.
Psalm 92: 12-14
FUTURE
When you're worried about the future...
"I know the plans I have for you", says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
Jeremiah 29:11
Don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.
Matthew 6:34
When you're planning for the future...
The Lord says " I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you".
Psalm 32:8
You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny.
So, here we go with PART 2 of our NLT (New Living Translation) Bible series...
In PART 1 we've started from A to C, now let's get going with D!
I pray that in each of these verse you somehow find answers, sentences, words that will cheer you up, strengthen you, provide you with everything you need to keep going on! Be blessed, go and FLOURISH!
DEPRESSION
When your circumstances seem hopeless...
Even though the fig tree have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks lie in the fields, and the catle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in The Lord! I will be joyful in The God of my salvation. Habakkuk 3: 17-18 When you feel you can't fight the sadness...
Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise Him again- my Savior and my God! Psalm 42: 5-6
The Lord is closed to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed. Psalm 34:18
He lifted me out of the pit of despair. Psalm 40:2
DESIRES
When you're seeking the things that God wants for you...
Take delight in the Lord and He will give you your heart's desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him, and He will help you. Psalm 37: 4-5
When you find yourself chasing after the wrong desires...
When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Galatians 5: 19-21
I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. Ezekiel 36:26
DOUBT
When you're feeling uncertain about God...
We are always confident...for we live by believing and not by seeing.
2 Corinthians 5: 6-7
Blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. Jeremiah 17:7
ENCOURAGEMENT
When you're feeling discouraged...
Let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.
Galatians 6:9
When you just need to lift your spirits...
The joy of the Lord is your strength! Nehemiah 8:10
The Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we patiently wait for God's promises to be fulfilled. Romans 15:4
I was sitting the other time trying to figure out what do I need to do to get an answer, what to do to get those breakthrough, to see those miracles I have been waiting for so long!
I cried out to you LORD WOULD YOU HELP ME?
Silence...
I cried out again FATHER TELL ME WHAT TO DO!!!
Silence...
I cried out again JESUS CAN YOU HEAR ME???
Silence...
Then I kept quiet and said GOD ALMIGHTY, JUST HAVE YOUR WAY...
So many times it feels like You're just looking at me without answering...
But Lord I know You ain't no answering machine to say "Please leave a message and I'll get back to you later"
So many times it may feel like You're not here.
But then I remember that You're just a prayer away.
I know You're listening and even in Your deepest silence You speak!
And yet this morning You broke the Silence and whispered : "it's all in your worship"
For my Worship moves Your spirit
And my Praises are sound to your ears!
I touch Your heart when I sing,
Recognizing all your good deeds.
Ain't no way You'll be ignoring when in my praises I shout You're WORTHY!
And as my soul humbles, off your throne You stand up
My enemies tremble, for when I Worship the heavens open...
So I should carry on Praising, testify your Glory!
For when I worship I have no worry and find the strength to carry on Hoping!
So no need to stress or reason to despair
My heart is calm, my soul tranquil
For when I Worship, Jehovah Shalom puts His peace in me...
You know I can't keep beautiful things to myself! Anything that helps me grow, flourish, be a better person and go on with life, anything that's beautifully inspiring and speaks to my soul NEED to be shared with you!!!! :-)
I hope you like it!
Be blessed!
Be Thankful
(Author Unknown)
Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire.
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don’t know something,
for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations,
because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge,
because it will build your strength and character.
" Dans la vie, on n’a pas seulement besoin d’avoir des parents excellents en tout.
Le plus important c’est d’être un bon enfant capable de défendre ses parents, de couvrir leurs défauts et d’ajouter une qualité dans ce qu’ils n’ont pas pu bien faire.
Bénis tes parents même s’ils ne t’ont pas permit de grandir selon tes souhaits.
En te donnant la vie ils ont accompli la volonté de Dieu et t’ont offert le monde et ses opportunités ! Sois toujours reconnaissant pour cette grâce même si vous avez des opinions differentes!
Fais très attention aux paroles qui sortent de ta bouche à l’égard de ton père et de ta mère.
Fais attention à toute doctrine qui te conduira à les maudire et à les maltraiter, ce serait un piège du diable contre ton avenir!
Apres tout, Dieu les a choisi pour être ceux qui te "donneraient la vie" pour l'accomplissement de ton destin, ne l'oublis surtout pas!
Honore les et prend bien soin d’eux pour que tu vives longtemps et heureux !
Ne retire pas fface pas le droit de tes parents biologiques à cause d’une mère ou d’un père spirituel, cela n’est pas biblique!
J'ai trouvé ce message assez profond et j'ai donc décidé de le partager avec vous.
Nombreuses raisons nous pousseraient à en vouloir à nos parents, à les mepriser, les rejetter, les haïr ect.
Mais peu importe les raisons, nous nous devons de les surmonter et avoir le courage de pardonner.
D'ou me vient l'inspiration d'ecrire ceci:
Qu'importe vos érreurs, qu'importe vos défauts
Qu'importe les blessures intérieures
Que m'ont causé vos mots
Qu'importe les larmes que j'ai versées
Ou le vide en moi que ton absence a créé
Qu'importe nos mal-entendus, qu'importe nos disputes
Qu'importe toutes ces fois où à mon égard tu as été injuste
Qu'importe les mépris, qu'importe les injures
Qu'importe les mots doux et gentils que tu n'as jamais su me dire
Qu'importe ta violence, qu'importe ton intolérence
Qu'importe toutes les fois où tu as perdu ton sang froid
Qu'importe qui tu es, qu'importe ce que tu as fais
Aucun de nous n'est parfait,
Ni moi, ni toi, personne ne l'est!
On ne choisit pas ses parents, on ne choisit pas sa famille
Et aujourd'hui si vous êtes mes parents c'est parce que l'Eternel Dieu l'a permis
Sur ce je vous dois du respect!
Et pour la vie, Papa/Maman je vous dis Merci!
Qu'importe tout le reste, mon coeur vous le pardonne! :)
"Honore ton père et ta mère afin d'avoir longue vie sur la terre que le Seigneur
ton Dieu te donne"-Exode 20:12 (4eme Commandement)
This is for all my beautiful single ladies/women out there! This poem helped me soooo much and still does everytime I read it.
I hope you will all start enjoying the Romantic Desert! :-)
Be blessed!
I am in the romantic desert,
Where I can't have a man for dessert,
Where I am invisible to those I like
But more than visible to those I dislike,
Where I could use some companionship
But instead all that guys can offer is friendship.
I'm stuck in this place,
Where I can't meet a new face,
Where the one that I do encounter
Has nothing but drama to offer.
He is cute, smart, and tall,
But he is just not with it at all.
I just want a man,
Who will serve as my significant other,
But it seems that every man
Is either married or living with his partner.
I cry out to the Lord:
"What is this horrible place,
Where the goods are unavailable?
There is no one, not even one.
I can't even get a date,
A look, or an impressive compliment."
And light is shed on the nature of the desert,
Turning this barren place into a sweet dessert.
The desert is here to keep me focused
On the Man who won't make me confused.
The desert is there to build me up
Into the woman He can lift up.
The desert is here to make me a wife.
It is actually here to better my life.
In Letters From God, by a beautiful and strong woman of God, my cousin Nya Huguette Ebama.
Do yourself a favor, go out there and buy her book! So worth it!
Imagine life as a game in which you are juggling some five balls in the air.
You name them- work, family, health, friends and spirit- and you're keeping all of these in the air.
You will soon understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back.
But the other four balls- family, health, friends and spirit- are made of glass.
If you drop one of these, they will be irrevocably scuffed, marked, nicked, damaged or even shattered.
They will never be the same.
You must understand that and strive for balance in your life.
How?
Don't undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special.
Don't set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you.
Don't take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them as you would to life, for without them, life is meaningless.
Don't let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future. By living your life one day at a time, you live ALL the days of your life.
Don't give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying.
Don't be afraid to admit that you are less than perfect. It is this fragile thread that binds us to each other.
Don't be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave.
Don't shut love out of your life by saying it is impossible to find. the quickest way to receive love is to give; the fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly; and the best way to keep love is to give it wings.
Don't run through life so fast that you forget not only where you've been, but also where you are going.
Don't forget that a person's greatest emotional need is to feel appreciated.
Don't be afraid to learn. Knowledge is weightless, a treasure you can always carry easily.
Don't use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved.
Life is not a race, but a journey to be savoured each step of the way.
Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and today is a gift. That's why we call it "the Present".
In her book Never Give Up, Joyce Meyer said "Progress has a price; and becoming a person who never gives up will cost you."
As I am myself on my way to Progress, I decided to share this with you.
Progress = to advance toward a higher or a better stage
In fact, when I hear the word Progress I think of the words Improvement, Change, Development.
In order for one to Progress or to improve or again to change, we need to have a BEFORE (past situation), a NOW (current situation) and an AFTER (a vision, a goal, a future situation that we would like to achieve).
Progress is what takes your Past, CHANGES it to your Present and IMPROVES your Present to make up your Future!
Now, some may either feel as if they have been no change from their past situation to their current situation or that there was indeed some changes but negative ones.
If this is how you feel, do not get discouraged!
Drop your negative attitude, make the decision to POSITIVELY change that situation because Progress is all about POSITIVITY- a positive mind, for a positive attitude, for positive results!
In my Project Management Degree, which I am currently doing, we have been thought that an Effective Organisation is one that, through leadership, strives for continuous improvement (progress) in order to meet their goals and achieve customers satisfaction.
An organisation that CONTINUOUSLY seeks improvement is one that NEVER gives up, NEVER stop bettering itself.
Now why should this only apply for organisations?
Let us, just like Effective Organisations, make use of our leadership capabilities to bring about change in our lives. Let's create in us a mentality of Progress to satisfy our customers- God, the people around us, and ourselves (we are our own customers).
Moving from where you are to where you want to be and most importantly to where God wants you to be may require time, energy, lots of sacrifices, lots of effort, and may even cost you to lose some friends etc But remember you are not going through it alone!
If you decide to take the road of Progress to make the plans God has for your life become reality, you are automatically saying to God "Yes to Your Will" and duuuh He will be there to assist you :-)
So go and find out what needs to be changed, what needs to be improved or even developed in you, in your life. Find it, and get on Progress mode!
I am taking the road of Progress,
Progress for more Faith and more Strength, more Confidence and Patience
For more Love, more Wisdom, more Giving than Receiving
For more Self-discipline and Commitment, more Forgiveness and less Judgement
For more Listening and less Speaking, more of Living than Complaining
For more of Thee and less of me...
It may indeed cost me but it is so worth it
Progress for more happiness!!!!!!
"Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it"- George Halas
Give your best and P>R>O>G>R>E>S>S!!!!!
For my little sister Lena, the source of my inspiration tonight...
" You can swear at me tell me I am no good.... but it's alright coz I m enjoying the fight...
You can drag me down, pull my hair, punch me in the face... but it's alright, i am enjoying the fight...
Bring them punches, I will take them with a smile..
Bite me, hit me...There is nothing I can feel!
With your weak hands you can slap me, it feels like you've just touched me...
You wonder How come?
Don't you get it? I am enjoying the fight!
Your words don't make me sad no more,
Over my life they don't have anymore control.
I declare it, I speak it, I know it, I believe it.
Your face and presence are just so insignificant.
Trying to convince me to give up, but don't you know I was created to stand up?
So hit me, bite me...There is nothing I can feel!
Bring them punches...I am enjoying the fight!
Tears replaced with a smile...I am enjoying the fight!
Tired of making you happy, now I want to see you cry!
Your time is up! Get out of the way
Oh I see you stubborn! I am not surprised!
A fool you are to be coming back when already you know you'll be loosing anyway.
So you shout louder, you hit harder
And with unthinkable pain you trynna take away the power...
The power that I have over you, over your evil plans.
But my strength is supernatural, and that's why I am enjoying the fight!
So bring your whole army, bring all you have, all you can to destroy me.
I am well prepared on this battle field; my armour is Divine.
My belt is of TRUTH, my breastplate of RIGHTEOUSNESS, and my sandals are of PEACE...
I am enjoying the fight!
My shield is of FAITH, my helmet of SALVATION, and my sword of THE SPIRIT, the WORD of GOD...
I am enjoying the fight!
So now bring them punches, bite me, hit me... There is nothing I can feel!
I was born to enjoy the fight, born to get through it with a smile because I am on the Victory side!!! "
So I have been absent for a while, but just so we refresh our minds, let's get back on track with this...
Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.
ECCLESIASTES 11:1 (1-6)
At planting time the great Nile River overflows, flooding the cropland.
Farmers take the tiny seed and wade through the waters, sowing in flooded fields.
At the time it seems as though their efforts will be wasted. However, when the waters recede and the sun warms the soil the tiny seeds, which sank in the water, spring forth.
In the midst of a book, which cries out, "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity", there is hidden one of the most important truths of God's Word.
There are times in our life when we wonder whether or not it is worthwhile to serve God.
It seems as though those not serving God are prospering and enjoying life far more than we.
Serving God, however, is a long-range investment.
If we sow seeds of righteousness, even though it seems futile, we will of those seeds reap eternal life.
Those who sow to the flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption.
Solomon's advice is well taken, "Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man" (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
Prayer: Let me remember that payday for the Christian does not always come in this life.
Wise words from Ron Hembree in Devotions for Everyday Living.
Right now I feel like life is too much, I can feel the weight of some circumstances on my shoulders, I need encouragement and strength, I need to feel Your Holy presence even more LORD.
This is the song that came in through my mind...
"Let Me Touch You" by Kirk Franklin-a man who through his songs, helps me make it through the days-is a song that reminds me that if there is no one to help me God is there, it is a song that puts me "back on track" whenever I feel like giving up.
I call on The Father with this song, I find inner peace with this song, I strenghten my faith through this song, I burst out in tears because of the anointing power of this song!
Yet there are others songs but RIGHT NOW this is THE one!
And let the weak say " I am STRONG"!- Joel 3-10
Let Me Touch You
(words and lyrics by Kirk Franklin)
Let me touch You and see if You are real Even though, I know my heart Your hands can heal But sometimes I get discouraged And I need Your strength and shield, Jesus Let me touch You and see if You are real
Sometimes to me You seem so far away And I wonder how to make it through the day But if I can touch the hem of Your garment Your power, I know, You can heal, Jesus Let me touch You and see if You are real
CHORUS When I'm down Let me touch You When I'm lonely Let me touch You When I'm discouraged Let me touch You Like I never have before Lord, I need You more and more, Jesus Let me touch You and see if You are real
"The Bible! A manual for life, a book of answers, a book of revelation!"
We've heard it so many times yet we barely read it if not to say NEVER lol.
I don't know for you but it took me aaaaaggggggges to figure out HOW to read that book! I mean that Book is huge! I never knew where to start and trust me this can be very discouraging!
So one day I did myself a HUGE favour and went to by this booklet called "the NLT BIBLE-Promise Book" (NLT standing for new living translation) which helped me so much and still does when I need to find a specific message in the Bible for a specific problem or a specific answer for a specific question I might have.
I thought I shouldn't keep it for myself but share it with you!
So here it is for those who find it quite difficult to "navigate" in the Bible.
ACCEPTANCE
When you're having troubles accepting life's circumstances...
You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail, and when all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever. Hebrews 10:34
ANGER
When you're feeling angry at others...
Dear friends never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, "I will take revenge; I will pay them back," says the Lord. Romans 12:19
"Don't sin by letting anger control you." Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27
When you're afraid God is angry at you...
His anger lasts only one moment, but his favour lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5
BEGINNINGS
When you feel the need to start over...
Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning. Lamentations 3:23
BLESSINGS
When you want to experience God's blessings...
Blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. Jeremiah 17:7
When you wonder about the blessings that come from obeying God...
The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. Psalm 84:11
CHANGE
When you need to make a change...
Don't copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Romans 12:2
COMFORT
When it seems there is no one to comfort you...
Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. Psalm 23:4
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted. Psalm 34:18
CONTENTMENT
When you're feeling dissatisfied...
I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13
Don't love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." Hebrews 13:5
COURAGE
When you need to be brave...
This is my command- be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Don't be afraid , for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10
But can I encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know your daddy went away, he was barely home or never even been there.
But can I encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know you feel weak in your body my friend.
Sickness is always present trying to fight you and declaring itself winner.
But hey! you made it til this day!
So can I encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know your mother isn't the best...
She has done mistakes and have a character of her own.
She comes home late her breath always smelling alcohol...
But can I encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know my friend, I know you have a broken heart. The one you love did you wrong and walked away.
The sound of his/her voice is no longer music to your ears. No! It is pure nightmare.
But can I encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know you've been abused my friend. Physically, mentally, emotionally abused dear friend.
You feel useless, worthless...It is a dark secret that you do not want to share.
But can I at least encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know you think time is passing you by; you still single with no kids and haven't found the one.
But can I encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know you've got so much anger in your heart my friend. It is eating you up and all you want is to shout.
You are wondering why? You're wondering How? You're wondering When? And still you don't understand!
Dear friend you won't find the answers if you don't let go of the anger...
So can I first encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know you're struggling to find yourself. You wanna prove to your family, your parents and your siblings that you can be a real man.
But in this struggle can I encourage you to smile? Smile because tomorrow is another day...
I know you've spoken to Suicide. You've invited her to your house and asked her to take you with her. But you've changed your mind and decided to stay.
So isn't it a reason to smile? Yes tomorrow is another day...
I know money is running away and debts inviting themselves. You're stressing out not knowing where to cry for help.
But fear nothing dear friend. The Great I AM has got it under control.
So can I encourage you to smile? Tomorrow is another day...
Life is a battle field in which, through Christ, we are meant to win!
So no matter what the problems are, what the challenges are, if you're still alive and holding on it's because God wanted it.
Always remember this:
- your past will not determine your future. Choose not to let your hurtful past holding you from the beautiful future that God has in plan for you.
- your parents' experience aren't your experience. Your are an individual person who has been made new in Christ
- God is stronger than any disease, abuse, addiction! His love is more powerful than a feeling of loneliness.
- His love restores, heals, brings deliverance. His love is pure, kind, unconditional, eternal.
- His love is beyond what you expect or even deserve.
- He is your Shelter, your Provider, your Healer, your secret Keeper
- In Him you'll find peace of heart, confidence, a joy you can't explain,
wisdom and strength to make it through the days.
The past may be horrible and the present be difficult but do not despair...
He holds the future in his hands.
"Faith is that bird that sings when it still dark".
Be that bird!
Smile when life is hard.
Smile in the darkest times.
Believe in yourself!
Strong, powerful and PURPOSEFUL! Those are your names!
Now smile because tomorrow is another day...
"No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening-it is painful! But afterwards there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way ( His ways)" - Hebrew 12: 11
Sensitive, I confess.
Susceptible, I am.
I get offended very easily! And for years I have tried to understand why do people behave a certain way? Why do they say certain things? Why do they change? Why don't they care?
I was just complaining to two of my closest friends for not really showing enough interest in something that I am doing. After telling them how disappointed I was, how much I was expecting from them and all the tralala, I kept quiet and heard the voice of wisdom whispering to me "they don't HAVE to!"
You see, so many times we get offended because we expect people to act the way we do, to behave, to think, to show love the way we do.
Thus we get hurt when they do not do or say things we were expecting from them.
Come on! Let's face it! We also aren't perfect!
I am sure I've hurt other people too by not doing what they were expecting me to do!
Too much expectation from others can be deceiving...so let's live more and expect less!
Life has thought me something: people come and go, people change, people love others don't.
People don't HAVE to...and if they do, it means they were meant to...
They don't have to be your friends.
If they do they were meant to...
They don't have to care
And If they do, well they were meant to...
They don't have to phone you
If they do they were meant to...
They don't have to be there
If they do they were meant to...
They don't have to understand you
If they do they were sure meant to...
They don't have to love you
If they do, trust me they were meant to...
So let's make ourselves a favour!
Let us live freely without expecting...
I am sure it will lessen the hurting!
Give without expecting to receive!
Listen without expecting to be listened to
Love without expecting to be loved
Give a phone call, SMS without expecting to get one back
Encourage without expecting to be encouraged
Keep that in mind and remember that People don't HAVE to!
PS: At the end of the day it is not about us but about Him who sees our good deeds and reward us according to them!
Jehovah El Elohim because He is the LORD GOD of gods.
Jehovah Immeka because He is with me.
Jehovah Machsi because He is My refuge.
Jehovah Mauzzi because He is My fortress.
Jehovah Shalom because He is My peace.
Jehovah Sali because He is My Rock.
Jehovah-jireth because He is My provider.
Jehovah Elyon because He is the MOST HIGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
El Hayyay because He is the GOD of My life.
Elhoe Mauzi because He is the GOD of My strength.
El Nose because He is the GOD that forgave me.
El Emunah because He is The faithful GOD.
Jehovah because He is the self-existing One!
The great I AM, the Author of My heart!
Every single beat of my heart, every breath I take shall try to express my love for You but even this won't be enough...
The BEST I never had...You are!
I woke up this morning feeling like writing. As i was looking for inspiration, I decided to go back to one of the book I read from T.D Jakes to find a quote that would help me write what I had in mind.
I found the quote I was looking for...
However, without really knowing why, i kept turning the pages as if i was looking for something else.
And there it was on page 67, God was speaking to me...answering me and providing me with a solution to something that was really bothering me...the feeling of being misunderstood.
Yup! That feeling was hiding deep down, and even though I had spoken about it to one or 2 people and even to God Himself, today that feeling was hiding deep down, hiding in the dark.
But because HE knows me better than I know myself, He managed to bring that feeling out, expose it to the light so that I see clearer and get stronger.
So here is the message...
Accept Being Controversial
(T.D Jakes, Before You Do p67)
"Exercising leadership requires that you accept being controversial.
Many people will not accept where you're going until after you get there. They don't understand the mind-set of a leader, because their opinions are based on where they are in life, not where you see your life going. Necessary members of your team (circle of friends) may have myopic visions; they are unable or unwilling to see the forest for the trees.
They are not the global thinkers you are. Leaders are not limited to one dimension but see the entire panoramic view of the team, their goals and life itself.
The difference in perspective between their myopic views and your panoramic view usually creates controversy, and a good leader has to be strong enough to live with the turmoil that comes from being misunderstood.
The controversies will hit you from many different direction and some will even emerge from those closest to you. These can be people who disagree with you. They want you to do and to be who they want and need, not necessarily who you must become according to your own personal sense of mission."
"You show leadership in the way you choose to live your life, the way you interact with others no matter what their social status, and the example you set for your family, friends, and others you come into contact with"- T.D Jakes
And to this I say:
I have chosen to be a child of God...chosen to make Him the centre of my life.
I have chosen to take the challenge to change the way I live, the way I speak, the way I think.
This won't be easy and will require patience, discipline, self-control but with the word of God I shall make it.
I have chosen to live my life a certain way...chosen to make wisdom my best friend.
For this is my Father's will for my life, I shall be contested but not defeated.
Thus I am a LEADER and today I accept to be controversial, arguable, questionable.
I accept being disputed, being misunderstood!
I accept to be called weird, for it is better to be weird in Jesus then to be weird in the world!
Every year I come up with new resolutions. By the end of the year only a few of them are met if not to say none of them. Maybe because of laziness? A lack of discipline? Or again, PROCRASTINATION?
Well, no matter what the reasons are, at the end of each year, I just hate to feel like I haven't accomplished anything.
I came across a message from Bishop T.D Jakes which really spoke to me. I believe this message was really a call for change, overcoming negativity by coming out of your comfort zone.
I couldn't go on listening to this message without taking notes...
Coming Out Head First
"No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; or else the new piece pulls away from the old, and the tear is made worse. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine bursts the wineskins, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But new wine must be put into new wineskins.” Mark 2:21-22
" So this year I might have to fight a new devil but I REFUSE to fight an old one.
I might have to face a new mess but I REFUSE to be in an old one.
I have made up my mind! I CANNOT waste this year.
It is my year of direction, my year of destiny, my year of FOCUS.
My mind need to have the elasticity to receive the things of God!
Therefore I gotta get my mind ready, get my attitude ready!
No time to be depressed! This is the year!
I have made up my mind, no matter what happens I will REJOICE!
My mind is a weapon because it is with it that I serve the Lord.
So let me get it in my head now: healing begins in my head, deliverance begins in my head, happiness begins in my head.
I need to have a new mind for new things!
New ideas, new dreams.
God's gonna pull me from my mind so I'm gonna come out HEAD FIRST!
And if my head comes out, my body needs to follow!
If i can get it in my head that I am more than a conqueror, my body will follow!
I am coming out HEAD FIRST!
It is my new mind that is gonna give me a new year!
I am coming out HEAD FIRST! " - T.D Jakes
PS: you can buy the DVD if you want or find it on youtube
In my previous post I spoke about being REAL to ourselves by exposing our negative side.
Well one of my biggest problem has always been the one and only Procrastination.
Hands up if you're like me!!!!
A Pro to Procrastination, we dated and even got married.
But obviously Procrastination was cheating all along.
The worst thing is that I knew it! Procrastination did me wrong!
But thanks to God I always managed to stand up again.
This was an abusing relationship in which I had chosen to stay...
Until a couple of weeks ago i decided it was time for a change.
It is official now: I WANT A DIVORCE!!!!
I almost failed some projects, assignments, tests, or even a year at university because of YOU!
I am 23 years old, have a car but still CANNOT drive because of YOU (so embarrassing)
I always have to make excuses or lie because of YOU
I happened to run late to classes, to meetings, to work because of the "I'll sleep just 5 more min" famous line and that's YOU
I wasn't diligent, disciplined like I should have been because of YOU
YOU feed me with laziness, excuses, lies...
It is ENOUGH!!!!
I have made up my mind...
Procrastination I WANT a DIVORCE!
Ciao, goodbye, adios, aurevoir!!!!
The Bible says in Proverbs 6:9-11 "When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest-and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man".
Isn't that clear enough??? NO I don't wanna be poor! Like are you joking???
Divorces are usually painful but oooohhh this one feels GOOD!
No regret! It's a new day therefore new opportunity for change!
Goodbye Procrastination! I will surely miss you... NOT!
Actually existing as a thing or occurring in fact; not imagined or supposed
True and actual; not imaginary, alleged, or ideal
Genuine and authentic; not artificial or spurious
implies authenticity, genuineness, or factuality
Implies sincerity, honesty.
(Thanks to The Free online Dictionary)
Now I am sure we all use or hear the word Real pretty often.
"Real Recognize Real", "Keepin'it Real" etc we've heard it...
"I want a Real man/woman", "Don't trynna fake it, be Real", "I like Real people", "It's not even her Real hair/boobs"etc we've said it...
Being Real to others is a good attitude, therefore wanting Real from people is totally normal.
But can I ask a question?
Are we REAL to ourselves? Are we True, are we Sincere are we Honest towards ourselves?
We are so focused wanting to be the Ideal-self that we forget about the Real-self.
The Ideal-self is the person we want to be, a fantasy of how we want to be...All the good qualities we wish we had etc. In other words it is when we think "I should be like this...".
I should be honest, I should be strong, I should be patient, I should be kind, I should be happy, I should be helpful and not selfish...
The Real-self however is who we are! Our personality, our flaws, our positives, our negatives.
We all have some qualities...but the negative side is what we tend to hide!
To be Real with yourself means to expose, to be honest, to reveal...
So, for a minute let's put the good qualities on hold and let the bad one speak...
Our imperfections when exposed are subject to correction...
So take a piece of paper today and write about your flaws
Don't accept them. Acknowledge them!
Once done, Pray for change...
You've just made yourself a favour,
You recognized the Real-self.
Has it ever happened to you to wake up in the morning feeling down? Feeling like giving up? Feeling like crying? Feeling like there was no solution to your problems?
Well trust me it happened to me soooooo many times!
But as i woke up one day feeling that way, there was this little voice whispering in my ears Life is Worth a Smile.
Life is worth a smile? I wondered. But before i even realized it, I wasn't wondering anymore but soon believed that this life of mine indeed was worth a smile.
So to God I write:
"You allowed me to see a new day...
Therefore Life is Worth a smile.
You never extend days beyond purpose...
Therefore Life is Worth a smile.
When I wake up in the morning it is You giving me a new opportunity to do better, think better, live better...
Therefore Life is Worth a smile.
You are so patient with me Lord...
Therefore Life is Worth a Smile.
When hard times come my way Father You give me the strength to overcome...
Therefore Life is Worth a Smile.
You healed my broken heart, took away my burden...
Therefore Life is Worth a Smile.
When friends do me wrong You still by my side and when people hurt me You do me justice...
Therefore Life is Worth a Smile.
When i feel down and hopless You take me in Your arms and encourage me...
Therefore Life is Worth a Smile.
You make me whole, in You i find peace of heart...
Therefore Life is Worth a Smile.
Because You are with me no one else can be against me...
Life is Worth a Smile.
You are my refuge and my fortress the God in whom I trust...
Therefore Life is Worth a Smile..."
Now it is your turn...Today...tell Him why Life is WOrth a Smile!
