Tag Archives: bible

Unstuck By His Grace

Stuck. I was stuck for the last few months. Stuck wondering what to write next. Life has been crazy and hectic, but that wasn’t the reason why I was stuck.

I’m not a true blogger in that sense. I can’t hire anyone to create content – nor would I. I won’t use AI to write for me. Why would I want a conglomerate of thoughts that aren’t my own? When I write there is a purpose. When I write, I have to express that purpose, genuinely.

So, I didn’t know what exactly to express. I was simply stuck…until He unstuck me. By His grace.

Did He give me some grand idea? No. But, He did tell me to write a book (it’s not done) on falling from grace. “GoD tOlD yOu…,” YES! He did, and I pity the soul who believes the Holy Spirit can’t speak to you. One should always want to hear from the Lord, as long as it aligns with the word of God.

At any rate, I decided to dive deep into what it means to fall from grace. Because…who in their right mind would write on a subject without making sure they know their stuff? Little did I know, I was in the camp who didn’t truly understand the fullness of His grace. You must know what grace is to understand how you fall from it.

Don’t get me wrong! I know what grace is. I’ve heard about it countless times from videos to sermons at church. But, just because you heard something a million times doesn’t mean you understand it. I had to sit with intense focus, purpose, and true desire. I had to read, listen, and take notes to understand what I was consuming. It was then it hit me. His grace is far greater than I can comprehend. Perhaps, far greater than what anyone can comprehend.

My Father in Heaven. He is a big God. He is a Mighty God. He is a good good Father who goes all out for His children. It is His grace, which is freely given that sustains us daily through our walk.

Ask yourself, do you know what that grace is? Not the generic definition! But for the sake of… grace means unmerited favor or gift. It is the untimely love and kindness of God. The things which He does for us that we do not deserve because we are sinners. That’s a hard one to swallow. But, why is that so hard to swallow?

Who wants to think they don’t deserve anything? If you keep doing something bad, what do you deserve? Do you think that you should ALWAYS do something good to receive a reward? Is love a reward? Why are things like relationships transactional and not relational? How do we explain the hard part about grace?

Listen, THE Creator doesn’t owe the Created anything, yet THE Creator gave the Created EVERYTHING. We are indebted to our Creator yet there isn’t a thing we can do to pay for it. But Jesus!

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” 

John 3:16

Did you know Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection was the greatest act of grace? The greatest act in history!

No one, no, nothing can top it. The one who gave His life to save rather than condemn all who live in this world (John 3:17). He is the reason we live and breathe today and then some. He is Jesus, and by His grace, He freed me.

There is so much more to be said. I couldn’t go any deeper without dragging this post along. The gloves are coming off in the book though – hopefully!

Diving into the topic of grace gave me a fresh perspective. It helped me gain a greater understanding of grace. Yet, I still don’t totally get it. Maybe because I am but dust, I never will. Although, I pray that as I continue to write this book, the good Lord will reveal much more!

A Wealth Transfer? Is it Real?

A wealth transfer? Is it really real? We’ve all heard about a wealth transfer right? Yes? No? Well if you haven’t, here’s the lowdown…

Many Christians believe the wealth stored for the wicked will be handed to the righteous. They believe that the evildoers will finally lose all the wealth they gained and be punished. The righteous will have their turn to prosper. A “Golden Age” so to speak. 

There are many profits (maybe a few prophets) talking about a wealth transfer. A concept that is heavily pushed by charismatics and prosperity preachers. They base their beliefs on Proverbs 13:22.

A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.

Those who believe seem to think that this year or 2025 will be the year where the righteous will prosper. The righteous will be rich and wealthy beyond what’s imaginable. The wicked will finally lose it all, and all will be well. So, people are stacking gold, silver, and cryptocurrency. They’re hoping to donate to charities, start their own businesses, or just live the good life. 

A little too good to be true?

I’ve had my moments erring on the side of caution. I’ve been hearing about this wealth transfer for nearly 5 years now. But, maybe there is something to this whole wealth transfer thing. I just don’t think it’s exactly what believers think it is. I think it’s an opportunity – possibly a rare one.

I want to share my personal experience of what God has shown me.

Disclaimer: This is NOT financial advice. I’m not a financial advisor. I am not selling anything. I’m not telling you to purchase anything nor is this an endorsement. Use your judgment. If you believe Jesus Christ is your savior PRAY about anything and everything. Do your own research. If not, do your own research. This is my personal experience, and what I believe God has shown me.

“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much – Luke 16:10

Circa fall of 2020, I was scrolling through Facebook. I glanced at one of those Facebook stories a friend posted. It linked to something called Nesara/Gesara. It piqued my interest for whatever reason. The name looked weird, and I decided to look it up. When I did, I was left with disbelief. 

It talked about everything from the abolition of the IRS and the Federal Reserve. Free energy, hidden patents, and this whopper – ALL debt being canceled. It literally sounded like some utopia. Not believing what I saw, I decided to dismiss it. Yet, little did I know it was this very thing that led me down the path of crypto. 

Later that evening I had a dream about XRP. I can’t explain it because I don’t remember all the details. I didn’t know what XRP was. I just knew that it was highlighted to me. It was obvious that it was something I should look into. Lo and behold, my research brought me to crypto and back to Nesara/Gesara – unfortunately. 

Side Note: For those interested, here is a very biased video against Nesara. I admit, I’m still a skeptic. It created so much FOMO. People fell down some really deep rabbit holes leading to financial ruin. But, here’s to hoping! Who wouldn’t want their debt erased? https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3ct1xzv

I knew nothing about crypto nor did I have any interest. The following day I researched it. It looked like a gamble, and I didn’t understand it. It wasn’t my cup of tea. So I dismissed it and went about my day. But, that night, I had another dream. Again it was about XRP. But this time, it included gold and silver!

I didn’t write this one down, so I don’t have any details. I just remember I woke up from my dream uttering XRP, Nesara, Gesara, Gold, Silver. Over and over. It also repeated over and over and over in my mind! Like someone repeating meaningless and annoying things. I couldn’t take it any longer. I shouted, “STOP!! ENOUGH!!” It stopped, and I never dreamed about anything like that again.

Yet, I knew…I had to dig deeper. The deeper I dug, the more I understood. Then I decided to invest in it. 

If you are a crypto fan, then you know about XRP. I cannot and will not use my post to explain it. It’s too much, but I will say that it IS 100% WITHOUT A DOUBT something very important to learn about. I’m not endorsing it, but I am definitely encouraging you to research it.

XRP is connected to our financial system. This runs DEEP! Much deeper than you know. With its use case a.k.a utility, I understood why God made it very clear to me to invest in it. 

Unfortunately, I dropped into a few rabbit holes in my research journey, BUT I am grateful for it. It has changed my perspective and opened my eyes to a lot of things I was unaware of. For instance, how our financial system actually works. 

If there is one thing I can leave you with, it is this. The financial landscape will drastically change.

There will be more millionaires, billionaires, and maybe a few trillionaires than ever before. The change will be massive. I wouldn’t be surprised if this will cause a great wealth disparity.

While many argued about left vs. right, up and down, election results, and lost in the world, They were successful. That’s right, the ones behind the scenes – They succeeded in keeping you looking here and not over there.

Our financial world was being reshaped under our noses. And at least 99% of the world wasn’t aware of it. And that same 99% aren’t aware of what’s coming. I don’t know what’s going to happen. No one does. But He told me to prepare, and I put my faith and trust in Him alone.

No matter what happens – Jesus is King. As long as you keep Jesus at the center, His grace will abound. 

Don’t Give in to Inquisitive Thinking

It’s that time of year again! That time of the year when you go out to do your civic duty, again! You know that thing that happens every 4 years. That thing that’s so divisive it fractures relationships beyond repair…because you know – the “Orange Man is bad” or “Cackling Kamala.”

Don’t fret, this ain’t a political post. Politics – while important….is noise. While people fight over their idol “here”, they miss what’s going on over “there.” A brilliant and effective strategy. But again, this isn’t about that. It’s about our need to know what’s next or when everything ends.

You ever ask yourself when is it going to end? Or, what will the world be like for your children or grand kids?

Today, we live in a very tumultuous world. Wars, rumors of war, insane inflation, high unemployment, and increased crime. Pandemics, epidemics, catastrophic weather – the list goes on and on. With so much happening, you’d think we must be at the end.

Life is a struggle for most. I don’t know about you, but I think we are struggling more. The struggle is so real that people are praying, “Jesus, come already” even more. We all tire of battling chaos and long for comfort. To not live paycheck to paycheck. To be free from sickness. To live life and not have a life to live.

So what happens when we struggle for so long? We begin to lose hope. Become jaded and despondent. BUT before this, we muster up enough HOPE as a last-ditch effort to obtain a piece of sanity. What does this hope of eventual comfort or peace look like? Inquisitive thinking.

We start searching and inquiring where that comfort is. These inquisitive thoughts spur action. These actions lead us to ask other sources – when and where is the good fortune and happiness?

At least twice the disciples asked Jesus when concerning the times. Jesus either evaded the question or simply told them – it is not for you to know. Yet, even today we keep finding ourselves asking, Lord Jesus, when? I won’t pretend I haven’t done this. I did this the other day.

I had a dream I cant explain. I just know it was from Him. I knew it was for a time to come, but I wanted to know when. I wanted to know what it looked like. Through my praying and searching, He led me to Acts 1:7.

“…It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority.”

Not to take this verse out of context, but this verse alone spoke volumes. Simply because He pointed out and reminded me of His sovereignty. It also reminded me of the dangerous traps set by the enemy.

Gullible and even weary Christians have the tendency to search and do a lot of speculating. We have our ears tickled by false prophets who make outrageous claims. Like, a literal town in heaven called “Christmas Town” and all these feel-good messages. Or “thus saith the Lord, in 30 days your prayers will be answered,” and it never happens. 

We entertain wolves behind the pulpit who speak only of prosperity. “Plant your seed in our ministry today and the Lord will bless you 30, 60, and even one hundred-fold!” We give heed to twists in scripture and false doctrine. We dabble in divination to figure out what’s next.

There is a danger to this. I quote from Matthew Henry, “[t]hose that are most inquisitive concerning the secret things which belong not to them are most easily imposed upon by seducers, 2 Thessalonians 2:3.” When we go searching for things that is not for us to know, we fall into traps.

Traps that open doors and wreak havoc. Traps that the enemy uses to shake and eventually break our faith. Remember, he comes to steal, kill and destroy. Don’t fall into these traps. Instead, confer with and learn from the Holy Spirit Himself. 

Just a simple reminder to trust our Heavenly Father. Fix your eyes on Jesus. Seek Him with everything you got! Cling to real hope. While this is easier said than done…take a deep breath and remember how far you’ve come.

Our life on this earth is temporary. Take heart and look forward to eternity. An eternity with with living King – Jesus.

I Don’t Want to Be Absent from His Presence

How does it feel to be absent from the presence of the Lord?

Empty.

That’s probably the best way I could put it. If you can relate to feeling like you’re in a void. Alone. Unloved and desperate – yea, that’s how it can feel too.

I don’t know about you. I don’t know your personal walk with Him. Maybe you know Jesus, maybe you don’t. I just know for me, it feels empty. This is not a teaching. Nor do I intend to sound preachy. I do not desire to tell you what to do, but to help you. Maybe help by stating how I feel.

Have you ever heard that saying -“You may be the only bible some people read.” This is true. As a child of the Living King, He wants me to use my hands and feet. I also believe He wants me to use my mouth too. The telling of my personal experiences can make an impact on you.

I can remember a time when I felt like He wasn’t there. You could call it a “dry season.” Utter silence during prayer. In that silence, I struggled. In that silence, I felt lost. Yet, in that silence, I persisted. I knew He was there, but I desired Him more.

You see, I’ve tasted and seen (Psalm 34:8). I know how good He is, and I’m blessed. Of all these years, how did I survive without Him? Why did I not desire Him then? How come no one ever told me how good He is? I knew of Him but didn’t KNOW Jesus. I’m sold! I’m a firm believer in Hebrews 6:4-6.

Now that I know Jesus, I cannot live without Him. 

This may sound silly, weird, and maybe obsessive to some, but don’t you feel that way about your loved one? Haven’t you said this at least once? About your father, mother, sister, or brother? Maybe even a close friend or lover? 

Imagine you are a merchant who sought beautiful pearls. One day, you found THE one pearl of great price. You’d sell all you had just to have it. This is like the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 13:45-46).

Once you grab a hold of something worth more than life, it’s hard to let go of it. This is Jesus for me. If you know Jesus, what is He to you? If you don’t, would you be willing to?

The Good Samaritan: A Salvation Story – Only?

What do you think when you hear “The Parable of the Good Samaritan?” Do you think about social justice? Racial discrimination? Illegal immigration? Or do you think about being a good person? There are varying viewpoints, but what do YOU know it to mean?

Recently, I heard a very intriguing perspective on this parable. Self-righteous acts will not gain you salvation. That’s it! Nothing about being a good person or loving your neighbor. I reviewed it multiple times because I’ve never heard it this way before.

While that statement is true, that’s not what I readily gleaned from it. Maybe I’m used to hearing it the common way. Nonetheless, I thought it was interesting. For this post, I figured I’d share this differing viewpoint. I think it will be informative for those who are familiar with the parable and for those who aren’t.

For context, let’s start with why Jesus told the parable and refer to Luke 10:25. A lawyer (one who studied the law) decided to test Jesus. He asked, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”1 Recognizing the intent of the lawyer, Jesus turned it back on him. Jesus asked, “What is written in the law? How do you read it?“2

The lawyer replied with the two great commandments. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27). To which Jesus replied, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live” (Luke 10:28).

Here is where it gets technical. Meaning, this is where the perspective turns from “be a good neighbor.” The lawyer’s “what shall I do?” is in the aorist tense. What does that mean? Aorist is defined as an event that is completed. A one-time action as opposed to a habitual or ongoing action. For instance, do you feed a baby once? No. Do you want to starve a baby? No, so you continue to feed the baby.

What the lawyer is saying without saying – I’ve already done these things. What else is there? In essence, the lawyer was asking for a checklist to earn salvation. This wreaks of self-righteous indignation.

When Jesus replied, “do this…” it is present tense and continual. Love God and be a good neighbor not just once, but continually. It’s a lifestyle not just something to do. Surely the lawyer was offended because he began to justify himself. He asked Jesus, “[a]nd who is my neighbor?”3

Jesus then replies with this parable:

“A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a Levite4, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. 34 He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 And the next day he took out two denarii5 and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’

After the end of the parable, Jesus asked the lawyer – which of the 3 individuals was a neighbor to the man robbed by the thieves. The lawyer replied by saying the one who showed mercy on the man. Again, Jesus reiterates “…You go, and do likewise” (Luke 10:37).

While not detailed in this parable, it is implied that the man who was robbed is Jewish. Why is that important to note? Well, this is what gives the common perspective of the parable. For those who are unaware, there was no expression of “brotherly love” between the Jews and Samaritans.

Jews did not see Samaritans as their neighbors. Recall, that the lawyer asked Jesus, “who is my neighbor?” So, it would come as a surprise that a Samaritan would have compassion for a Jew and vice versa.

Back to the main point. The lawyer did not follow what the great commands demanded. Hence why 2x Jesus told him to go do what was commanded. His self-righteous acts made him fall short. His attempts to justify himself and deny wrong-doings did him no favors either.

You are incapable of obtaining salvation with self-righteous performances. Salvation is a gift, not something you earn. In all, Jesus confronted a self-righteous lawyer. That’s it!

It’s not about racial discrimination or being a social justice warrior. Nothing on DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion), acts of compassion, loving your neighbor, or being a good neighbor. Only about salvation.

I see the point, but meh! I find it hard-pressed to believe that Jesus would tell this story with just one deep meaning. Yet, I could be totally wrong.

So, what do you think? Is it a salvation-only story? Or do you think there is much more?

P.S. – Thank you to my new subscribers! I greatly appreciate it! ❤

  1. Luke 10:25 ↩︎
  2. Luke 10:26 ↩︎
  3. Luke 10:29 ↩︎
  4. A member of the Hebrew tribe of Levi. They were selected to serve God in the Holy Temple. ↩︎
  5. Roman silver coin ↩︎

The World Is Not Enough: The Prodigal Son

The world is not enough, and it will never be. What does it profit to gain the world and lose everything? Easy, none! You profit nothing, yet, this concept seems foreign. Everything is so in your face! Riches and wealth, power, sex, “love”, etc… The allure of worldly things is seductive. It’s like you “gotta catch em all!” There is a story in the Bible that talks about this. Do you know the prodigal son?

If you know, you know. For those who don’t, let’s talk about him. There was a wealthy man who had 2 sons. The younger son told his father, “Father, give me my share of the estate” (Luke 15:11). I’m sure the father had reservations, but he divided the property between his sons.

Soon after, the younger son journeyed to a distant country and squandered his ENTIRE inheritance on worldly pleasures. He was left with nothing and in need. What made matters worse was famine struck the whole country. One can only imagine what he was thinking. Our flesh would call him an idiot, stupid, and a fool. That wouldn’t be nice to say, no matter how true.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. With nothing left, he hired himself out to a citizen of that country. This citizen in turn sent him to feed their pigs. He longed to fill his belly with what the pigs ate, but no one fed him. Imagine being so hungry that you’d consider eating what the pigs ate because no one fed you. What would you do in this situation?

Well, he came to his senses. One could assume after lamenting, he realized he didn’t have to be there. “How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger” (Luke 15:17)! So he gathered himself and thought about what he should say to his father.

“18I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants’ “(Luke 18-19).

So, he made his way back to his father. While still a long way off, his father saw him in the distance. Filled with so much compassion, his father ran to his son and embraced and kissed him! This is a great act of love. This is the heart of a good father. Even though his son made a massive mistake, he forgave him and rejoiced at his return.

“Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son” (Luke 15:21). His father paid him no mind as he continued to rejoice at his son’s return. His father commanded his servants,

“Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23 And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found…“ (Luke 15:22-24).

There is more to this story, so I encourage you to read further. There are multiple lessons to be learned from this, but I only want to touch on 1. Chasing vanities, chasing the wind – these things will leave you empty.

Many of us, believers and nonbelievers alike fall into this web of deception and lies. That chasing after love, materialistic things, riches, and more will satisfy our needs. Our fulfillment doesn’t lie in the things of this world but in God’s sufficiency.

If you know Him, trust that He is enough. If you don’t know Him, come to Him. Put your faith in Someone who won’t leave you empty. Remember, the world is not enough, and it will never be.

Out From Within: Unashamedly Bold

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.

Philippians 1:20

2 weeks ago, my best friend sent me this meme below. She had this to say about it, “I feel like this is you, and I want to be more like you boo.”

I was flattered, and it’s nice to know that someone else sees me this way. I’ll be honest, what this meme says is exactly how I think sans cursing. Yet, it is not always how I portray myself. Why? Because sometimes it’s hard to be that unashamedly bold.

We live in a world of “my truth” not THE truth. Pronouns, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, Democrats, Republicans, etc…are not THE truth. Nah, that’s my and/or your truth. Too many self-proclaiming Christians are bowing down to “my truth” instead of THE truth. It is destructive to the body (Church). So, what is THE truth you ask?

Well…it’s not what but who is it. Jesus Christ. He is THE truth. John 14:6 quotes Jesus saying “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Now, some of you don’t believe and some do. That’s ok. Some may stop reading and get in their feelings. Differing beliefs tend to do that. That’s ok too. You may not read my writings anymore. All good.

At first, I wasn’t sure if this was something I should write about – boldness. I started a rough draft and stopped because I began to doubt. I felt passionate about it but didn’t know how to express myself. I prayed for guidance and a few days later my best friend sent that meme. It was what I needed.

There are no coincidences. He answered my prayer. That may seem far-fetched to some, but very few know what He is doing with me. I would be remiss if I didn’t say I don’t totally know myself. One thing IS for sure – He is using my writing to bring out what is within.

You see, I have a voice – I must speak. I cannot water down my message or His message. This is me. I am a child of the living King. I cannot be afraid to hurt your feelings.

” 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these” – Mark 12:30-31.

I am commanded to do these things. Wouldn’t you want to help save someone from self-destruction? That is real love.

I cannot be petrified of how you’re going to react. Your triggers, meltdowns, and tantrums cannot stifle my voice. I’m going to piss people off. I’m going to make people uncomfortable. I’m going to lose friends and family, and it’ll hurt. The truth hurts people. It has no regard for your feelings. But, isn’t this a good thing?

As a Christian, I won’t be well-liked. I feel like that’s a requirement. That’s fine. I’m used to that – ✅. Family, so-called friends, and the workplace alike. I don’t need to be liked.

Jesus said to be the salt.

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot” – Matthew 5:13.

What does this mean? Imagine eating bland food. Some of ya’ll like bland food, but the majority like flavor! Tasteless food is often rejected. Salt is also a preservative. Preservatives help prevent spoilage.

As a Christian, I am called to serve and live faithfully to God. I lose my taste if my godly influence can’t cause change. I’d lose my preservative effect if I choose to be of the world (values and beliefs) and not in it. Many won’t like my taste, but c’est la vie! I choose to live like Jesus.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” Matthew 5:16.

With the power of the Holy Spirit, there is great work being done within me. Radiate my light? More like shine! I pray I glow bright enough so that you may see my good works. While my good works will not save me, they are a witness for Jesus.

To my Father in heaven, may I glorify You in all that I do. Oh, how I long that someday, I’ll hear You say…well done good and faithful servant.

By A Hair, I Almost Dropped the Ball

Last week, my family and I were talking about someone. Some concerns and frustrations were voiced about this individual’s actions and decision-making. As I began to speak, give my input, and voice my sentiments… I made the mistake and said something that shouldn’t have been said. I was checked in my spirit for it and rightly so. I heard in the spirit, “judge rightly.” I apologized. I almost dropped the ball. Had I not repented, I certainly would have dropped it.

“ 1 Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. 3 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.“

Matthew 7:1-5

That night, I had a dream. I was in a park, and I remember seeing cheetahs. I can’t recount how many, but definitely more than one. It was interesting to see them there because they weren’t in their natural habitat. The cheetahs were fairly docile and super friendly. Yet, they were just…there. Although I must admit, I felt a strong connection like one would have with their pet(s).

Quick Facts: Cheetahs are the fastest land animals (up to 70 mph) and allegedly, the original household cat – Cleopatra anyone? They are very swift and agile. Cheetahs have malar marks/stripes that run down their face. These allow them to see during the day when hunting and deflect sunlight. They chirp, purr, and meow but do not roar. Cheetahs are shy, so they avoid direct contact with humans. Their claws are semi-retractable, and sadly, they are endangered. After learning about these things and more, the cheetah became my favorite animal!

Inside the park, I remember standing near a baseball field. My family was there, and I remember my husband wearing a baseball cap. We began to pass the baseball and when it came time for me to catch, I began to fumble the ball. Yet, I was agile and swift enough to grab it before it hit the ground. As I stood up, I noticed I clipped the tip of the blade of grass between my fingers. Truly, by a hair, I almost dropped the ball. Talk about a close call!

The last thing I remember before waking up was gazing at the ball in my hand. After thorough thought and prayer, I KNEW in my spirit that this was about that conversation. That conversation I had with my family. I knew what God was showing me, and it didn’t go unnoticed. It was a reminder to me about the verse above (Matthew 7:1-5).

“29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. …31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Ephesians 4:29; 31-32

He was showing me how close I was to dropping the ball. Sometimes people don’t realize that we can easily do this in conversations. In my effort to carefully craft my words, I made a mistake. With a quickness, the Holy Spirit humbled me. I rectified it and asked the Lord for forgiveness. No one is perfect, but imagine. 

Just imagine walking around with guilt for not repenting. It doesn’t feel good to have the heavy weight of guilt. Sleepless nights and nightmares. Mental fatigue from constant thinking. Somber moods and more. I don’t know about you, but that’s punishment enough for me. So, what do we do when we have an issue with or feel offended by another? We go to them.

Sure it’s not easy to say to someone, “You hurt me” or “I don’t like when you do this” or “Hey, your breath stinks.” But wouldn’t it be much better to tell the person than slander and/or gossip about someone? Ephesians 4:29-32 talks about how we should avoid such things. All issues within the body and in general should be addressed peacefully.

Why don’t we do this? Well, I think it’s out of fear. We don’t want to start a controversy or offend someone. With all that said I leave you with this…if you don’t address it, but rather choose to gossip – who is the worst offender?

Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. James 4:11

Not Your Typical Fellows

“They’re going to make me a little jittery. They’re going to make you uncomfortable”.

I heard this phrase while I was listening to Part 1 of a sermon from a Pastor at my old church. The sermon was called, “The Day of the Lord.” What he said resonated with me because it’s 100% true. I believe our heavenly Father has sought and found a group or generation of people who are dedicated to Him. I believe He is preparing them at this very moment. These people will not be your typical fellows.

This will offend the right ones. You Church folks (not all) and religious woke (all of you…definitely) tend to be the worst ones. You clutch your pearls, conduct your man-made rituals, and perform church every Sunday. You are scoffers. You are arrogant. You are ignorant and again, full of pride. You are NOT who He is looking for. Yet, I digress. Lest I forget, even I can easily fall into these camps.

“God is bringing forth those who understand His heart of love. …He’s going to bypass religious people in churches. He’s going to raise up a whole generation of forerunners.“

Pastor Ken made another valid point. These forerunners will jump! They will not run away from the occasion to serve the Lord. Unabashedly, without fear, compromise and doubt. They will have the willingness to listen to what God has called them to do. They will be “a voice for God not just a mere echo.”

What will they look like? Well, they won’t look like your typical fellows. Some are addicts and/or live immorally. Some are broken and bitter. Others do not care what God thinks and their hearts do not desire Him.

It’s kind of crazy to think that the most “messed up” people are ones that God can and will use. Have doubts? Remember Paul? Who was once Saul and approved the stoning of an atypical fellow named Stephen (Acts 8). Jesus can captivate hearts because He is the Great Physician (Mark 2:17) and so much more. He once reminded me, “No one is too far from my grace.”

Once He grabs their hearts, some will be radically transformed and be on FIRE for Jesus Christ. What does it mean to be on fire for Jesus? What it doesn’t mean is going to church on Sunday. It doesn’t mean living life as usual Monday through Saturday. It does mean to pick up your cross and die to yourself.

It means understanding your life isn’t your own when you surrender it to Him. It means to walk with Him and be guided by Him. To grow with Him, not without. By His grace, you walk and live like Jesus. Thank goodness for grace, and the Holy Spirit because we couldn’t walk and live like this on our own.

In closing, I’ve said it once before, and I’ll say it again. I believe God is raising up a people for an insane time that is soon approaching. These people will work for the Kingdom. They will spread the good news and help bring souls to the one who saves – Jesus Christ.

Click on the link below, and listen to Part 1 of “The Day of The Lord” by Pastor Ken Gibson of Upper Room Missionary Church. Part 2 is available now for viewing.

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/4BRDos38kysZCQzs

P.S. – Pastor Ken, if you are reading this. I once dreamt of a red train before. Your message touched me because it aligns with what I saw. You may not remember, but I shared it with you when Jon and I came to visit 3-4 years ago. I didn’t know what it meant then, but I know now! I wrote about it in this post Get Ready, The Train Has Arrived.

I look forward to listening to Part 2.

Be A Cheerful Giver, and Tithe with the Right Heart

I think about many things. Well…we all do, but the things I think about make me feel weird. I feel weird because I think too much and overcomplicate things. And because I feel weird, I feel alone. Not alone in the sense of sadness, but alone like – it’s likely impossible that your friends, family, or the average person is thinking of these things right now but you! So, among those things I’ve been thinking intensely about is tithing.

When I say intensely, I mean I lost about a half hour of sleep. I also dreamt about it and woke up with tithing as my first thought. The concept of tithing gets too much attention, yet too little. The good points about it are overshadowed by the bad. It’s so divisive, and I’m perplexed about it. Something that God implemented as good, is all of a sudden “demonized!” Here’s what I think. Do it. Tithe. Absolutely, tithe…but be cheerful about it.

“To the Levites I have given every tithe in Israel for an inheritance, in return for their service that they do, their service in the tent of meeting” – Numbers 18:21.

I may be wrong, but I think people get the concept of tithing wrong. What does tithe mean? It means “a tenth part.” In Greek (dekatos), it means “ten percent of something.” Way back when the nation of Israel was instructed under the Mosaic law to tithe. The 10% given was used to support the Levites’ work in the Holy Temple and community. Tithes came in the form of livestock and agriculture. It was never in the form of money until years later.

I’m not writing this to give a whole study on tithing. I recognize that there are different camps. Just what I believe. Some people refuse to tithe because they deem it unbiblical and some don’t because they believe they don’t have to. Some tithe and give the full 10% because – “the law”. Others tithe and give what they can. I tithe because I do believe we should, but I don’t always tithe 10%. I may give a little more, and when it’s tight – I give a little less.

8 Will man rob God? Yet you are robbing me. But you say, ‘How have we robbed you?’ In your tithes and contributions.  9 You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing me, the whole nation of you. – Malachi 3:8-9

I remember a few years ago, I was on my knees praying to the Lord. I was asking the Lord to speak to my heart. To reveal to me what He wanted me to know. While on my knees, I received a vision.

I approached what appeared to be 2 giant Pringles cans parallel to each other, haha. They were actually pillars, but the Pringles look was a nice touch. It surely caught my attention. As I passed the pillars, I saw a beautiful temple made of gold. And just like a scene out of a movie, I got a panoramic view of how big the temple was.

As I marveled at the temple, suddenly, I saw someone creeping up the temple steps. 😮🤔 Wondering who it was I watched intently waiting to see their face. After a few steps, the person turned and peered over their shoulder. To my shock, the person was – ME!! 🤯🤯🤯 This was so strange! How was this person ME!

This “ME” didn’t match my character. I…”ME” was giggling so sneakily! Squinched face, hunched back, greedy hands, and a sneer that even the “father of lies” would love. If that is what I look like trying to be sneaky, God help me! So, this “me” thought no one was watching and snuck into the temple. I felt like a “fly on a wall”. I watched in awe at how no sooner did “me” enter the temple, this “me” crept out giggling with an armful of gold! After the coast was clear, she ran away.

Stunned, I spoke aloud and said, “OH NO LORD!! I would NEVER do that!!!” As if I would dare go into a temple and steal anything. Not even a penny! Unbeknownst to me, I was caught in a lie. I then heard Him speak, “Never say never. You steal when you don’t tithe.” 😑 Touche!

God didn’t curse me, and He wasn’t angry either. Thankfully, we live in a time of grace, and I have a good good Father. He was gentle actually, and while I felt guilty it was funny. I couldn’t help but laugh. I repented and have tithed ever since.

35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ …40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me‘ (Matthew 25:35-40).

Come now, did you think I was a legit thief? Like, did I in my lifetime steal from a bank, friend, family member, or store? No, but it’s ok! I would have thought the same since I was caught in that lie. The only thing I ever stole was time…from a job…I digress. Nonetheless, there was a lesson to be learned from my vision. Give, don’t take.

You may think I was scared into tithing. No, it actually gave me a healthy fear of the Lord – reverence. It taught us (my husband and I) to trust Him with what little we had. Eventually, I realized that nothing we had belonged to us. We were just stewards. This happened so early in my walk, so I didn’t realize the deeper meaning of what He was trying to show me. Today, as I write this it reminds me of the verse above. This is the meaning of tithing to me. Giving to give back.

Not everyone has the means to give a full tithe. So would God not bless you because you can’t? No. He doesn’t need our money. He wants your heart. Give what you can. If giving causes you to fret or frown, then you have a heart issue. I pray you’ll seek the Lord.

In all, I won’t get caught up in the divisiveness of tithing. I choose to give as my heart leads. To give beyond the tithe when I’m able. To give when the Lord leads me to. I choose to tithe to help my church. To give to bless another. I choose to be a cheerful giver, and I’ll tithe with the right intent. How about you?