Trials & Tribulations of a 3% Child

So as I got older I learned to appreciate things for what they were but still question them sometimes if I don't fully understand them. So although I never got an answer from my mother about why my father just doesn't just learn something new so he can make more money and not have to work so much I always thought about it in the back of my mind and would continue to try to figure it out on my own. Around this same time I was being exposed to a lot of different things simply because my parents were wise enough to send me to school outside of my normal element. Simple example would be my first grade class, where I was one of only two black people in my 1st grade class, the other being my teacher. However my ways would still excel and I was always at the top of my classes.

Going to school outside my neighborhood allowed me to meet people who were different than me and learn that in the end we are all the same whether it be good or bad, at the end of the day we are all just people. However I would eventually have to leave this school due to my mother and father becoming so busy and transportation issues with me and my younger brother being involved in so many after school activities. So by the time I reached the 5th grade I was back at a local neighborhood school and would get welcomed back in the traditional way as it seems in our hood.

I learned a lot in just that one year about people period, and how they treat outsiders, regardless of color, prosperity or talents. That year I went through many test to gain other kids respect as well as adults in the neighborhood I would eventually meet. Prior to that year, I never went out in my neighborhood because I played for a football team outside my neighborhood so my only friends were from school and football, so none of those people lived near me. I learned to earn respect you simply had to give it and if you were dealing with a respectable person there would always be a mutual good thing to fall back on.

Many parents in the neighborhood loved me and learned to love my mother as well. She would eventually grow to become the mom for the neighborhood. With her having a number of kids and being involved in knowing everything that was going on, she developed a network with all the other parents and made sure they knew when their kids were at my house and what was going on at their schools and when they needed to be there or when something important should have been coming home.

Report card time brought quiet time to my house simply because everyone avoided my house due to having to show Ms. Thomas your report card. Because anyhow you didn't have good grades you weren't banned from my house, you were require to be there, and I had to tutor you. So in a way I was put on punishment because that would normally be videogame time. On top of that your parents would obviously know and you would be garnished of your fun for whatever time they saw suitable.

This year I also joined the Police Athletic League, P.A.L. for short. I can honestly say that this may have been one of the most influential and most beneficial programs I may have ever been a part of. It gave me a safe place to enjoy activities and sports on a daily basis that was very close to home. I would eventually come to learn and play many sports and participate in many programs both educational and entertaining. It helped expand who I am to a significant degree to which I will forever feel in debt to the creators and officers who helped run that program.

My 5th grade year was the beginning of an open-minded approach or thought process that would become a significant part of me and keep me different from most people. I would eventually make a ton of new neighborhood friends, get in a lot of trouble as kids did, but make lasting impressions on many people that til this day is still positive and unforgettable. I would learn to look at things with an open-mind and to not put barriers on what I could do. I truly began to harness this 3% mindset and understand it to a significant level this year. However, it still didn't dawn on me yet, that I was only in the 3%. Time would eventually show me otherwise.

Daily Reading - "Good Works...God Prepared In Advance For Us." Ephesians 2:10 NIV

Here is how it read today...

"GOOD WORK...GOD PREPARED IN ADVANCE FOR US." (EPHESIANS 2:10 NIV)

Doing God's work God's way

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Any time you ask, "What on earth am I here for?" the Bible answers "to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." God created you for a prearranged mission. You're a conscript, not a volunteer. You don't get to decide your calling. And it's a mistake to try and duplicate somebody else's calling. Remember Moses? God calls him to deliver Israel from Egypt but he tries doing it his own way. Killing an enemy to save an ally's life, he winds up a forty year fugitive. After living in the wilderness and learning his lesson he returns to do God's will - God's way. All of us, not just ordained ministers, are called to do God's work God's way. "But how do I know what my calling is?" ask.

............(1) Work with your spiritual gifts. We all receive gifts from God, who "gives them to each one, just as he determines." (1Co 12:11 NIV). Let God show you through your deepest desires and core competencies where you're best suited to serve. (2) Submit to godly leadership. Your pastor can help equip and guide you. God "gave...pastors...to prepare God's people for works of service" (Eph 4:11-12 NIV). We all need help; we can't get there by ourselves. (3) Commit your abilities and resources to building up your local church. God designed our gifts and callings "so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Eph 4:12 NIV). (4) Develop a servant spirit. "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others" (1 Pe 4:10 NIV). Don't know your gifts? Start serving, and God will reveal them to you.

Special Selection - "Looking For You"

Daily Reading - "I Thank My God Upon Every Remembrance Of You." Philipians 1:3

Here is how it read today...

Thus. July 23

"I THANK MY GOD UPON EVERY REMEMBRANCE OF YOU." (PHILIPPIANS 1:3)

Fina a way to say "thank you"

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Author Barbara Glanz tells about a successful business man who remembered his 8th grade literature teacher. He wrote to her and received this reply: "You'll never know how much your letter meant. I'm 83 and living alone. My friends and family are all gone. I taught school for fifty years and yours is the first thank-you I've ever gotten from a student. Sometimes I wonder what I did with my life. I will read, and reread your letter until the day I die." Ironically, she was the teacher students talked most about at class reunions, but nobody ever told her.

...........Paul was uncompromising on the truth, but his sensitive side also shows up in his writings. Knowing our need for appreciation he opens his Epistles with words like: "I make mention of you always in my prayers" (Ro 1:9 NKJV). "Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you" (Eph 1:15-16 NKJV). "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you...for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete in until the day of Jesus Christ" (Php 1:3-6 NKJV). "We...boast of you among the churches of God for your patience...in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure" (2Th 1:3-4 NKJV).

..........In our busy, self-centered world, we need to remember those who have made a difference in our lives, and when they come to mind, pray for them, and find a way to say "thank you."

Daily Bread Video Reading - "Ready To Speak"

Daily Reading - "Contend Earnestly For The Faith." Jude 3 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

Wed. July 22

"CONTEND EARNESTLY FOR THE FAITH." (JUDE 3 NKJV)

Let's keep the faith (2)

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The Bible says: "We must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away" (Heb 2:1 NKJV). The word "drift" should set off alarm bells. Jesus pointed out that while the harvesters slept an enemy sowed weeds among the wheat. When they finally wakened they said, "An enemy has done this" (Mt 13:28 NKJV). Cancer begins with one unidentified, unchecked cell, and if left un-dealt with it can destroy your whole body. Hence Jude writes: "Contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ" (Jude 3-4 NKJV). Note the words "the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints." Our methods may change, but our message never changes. Paul writes: "The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine" (2Ti 4:3 NKJV). Study the progression in the lives of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Abraham's blessings came through a personal relationship with God. Isaac inherited his father's blessings. Not until the Philistines attacked him, did he go back and dig again the wells of his father Abraham and build an altar to the Lord. Finally Jacob, the third generation, came along and tried schemes and shortcuts to obtain God's blessing. Only when he had a life-changing encounter with God at Peniel, did he reestablish his life on foundations laid by Abraham and Isaac. Let's keep the faith; let's give our children "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth."

Daily Bread Video Reading - "Who Is Deaf?"

J.M.T. "The Reason"

Special Selection - "Yesterday"

Daily Reading - "Don't Be Greedy, For...The Things Of This World." Colossians 3:5 NLT

Here is how it read today...

"DON'T BE GREEDY, FOR...THE THINGS OF THIS WORLD." (COLOSSIANS 3:5 NLT)

"I want it now!"

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A big credit card company has a TV commercial with the slogan, "You can have it all now!" Sound familiar? Not much has changed. Satan said to Adam and Eve, "If you want that apple, take it." Leave payday till "some day." Go ahead; put it on your credit car. Better yet, get this new, low-interest car and pay nothing for one year. That's right folks, no interest and no payments for one full year." If you're the typical overextended family carrying a per capita credit card debt of $10,000 to $20,000, don't take the bait. It's time for getting out of debt, not deeper into it. If you want help, try using these four Bible principles:

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(1) "Don't be greedy for the things of this life, for that is idolatry" (See Col 3:5 NIV). Stop craving things you don't need. Instead, try enjoying what you've got. (2) If you're not tithing, start now! You'll be switching from the world's faltering economy to God's fail-safe economy. When you tithe He promises to protect your interests and send blessings "there shall not be room enough to receive" (See Mal 3:8-12). (3) "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it" (Ps 24:1 NIV) and He guarantees to "supply all your need" (Php 4:19). So before you go shopping, try praying! Ask God for what you need, then wait for Him to respond. (4) Begin giving away some of what you've got. "It is possible to give away and become richer...[and] to hold on too tightly and lose everything...the liberal man shall be rich" (Pr 11:24-25 TLB). Go ahead, do it! Obey God, be patient, and watch what happens.

Daily Bread Video Reading - "Small Step - Giant Leap"

Just Wanna Say

Trials & Tribulations of a 3% Child

I remember it like it was yesterday, I was about 8 years old and every Friday night my dad would come home with some form of fast food, chinese food, cheese steaks, hoagies, or what have you. Whole family would chill in the living room and watch a movie, talk or just enjoy each other's company. Saturday would come, and in the fall that meant I had a football game and both my mom and pop were always there yelling louder than any other parent. Always embarrassing was my father yelling, "YESSSS SCRATCHY," my nickname he gave me from when I had the chicken pots. Then Sunday would come and it would be church with the siblings and watching the football games at least with my brothers and both parents. Weekends were great, but then came Monday and I knew I wouldn't really see my dad again until Friday night.

My work week (yes at 8 years old it's still a work week) consisted of waking up early to take the school bus out the hood to attend school in Manyunk. After school would be homework, football practice in the fall or some after school club in the spring. My mom would always pick me up from wherever I was and it would be home to finish up any homework that wasn't done, dinner, shower and bed. By the time my dad got home I was dead sleep and when I left in the morning so was he. This may sound familiar to a lot of kids, having the best weekend dad ever. It was almost like he didn't exist during the week. Sometimes I may have gotten lucky to catch a glimpse of him if he came home early which rarely happened, but most times it was Friday night when I didn't have a bed time until Sunday that I actually saw my dad.

While most kids just dealt with things and took them for what they were, I was a little different some might say. I always had a smile on my face no matter what, hence the nickname Smiley I would eventually attain. I always figured I was or could be the best at whatever the task may have been even when kids older than me were involved and if it seemed apparent I wouldn't be I would actually cry from the frustration. I was and will always be the why kid. No simple answer was ever good enough, if there was something I didn't understand I continued to ask why until I totally understood. This one trait would eventually lead me to become and form what many know as the 3% Mindset.

As a child I questioned everything, why is the sky blue, why is water wet, who made up words, why can't 1+1=3 and who ever made up numbers anyways. I questioned the littlest of things to the biggest of things, simply because I didn't know nor understand. I took great pride in learning new things and being ahead of the curve as they say, so I figured the more questions I asked the more knowledge I would gain, just made simple sense to me. Then one day I asked my mother a question that I never got an answer I liked and would never come to agree or just settle with.

I asked my mother, "Why is it that daddy is always working during the week and is only here on the weekends." She simply replied, "he has to work to provide for all of you, for you playing football, and for Andrew's DJ equipment, and for all of our food and clothing and the house." For most kids, that would have been enough, but as I said I was unique, so I continued on. "Well mom, why doesn't he just make a lot of money so he doesn't have to work so much." My mother once again replies with, "well he can only make so much depending on how long he works, if he worked any more you wouldn't see him at all for your games or your brother's and sisters activities." Another good answer for most kids, but once again I continued. "Well mom, why doesn't he just do something else so he didn't have to work so much." My mother says, "well there is only so much he knows how to do, so that's what he does." Good answer for most I guess. I ask, "Why doesn't he just learn something new?" Mom doesn't really answer this, I guess in an effort to not belittle my father or maybe because it made her think twice as well. Whatever the reason for the pause, it eventually led to her diverting the conversation and her also realizing her son may be special in a good way after all.

Daily Reading - "We Have This Treasure In Earthen Vessels" 2 Corinthians 4:7

Here is how it read today.

Wed. July 14

"WE HAVE THIS TREASURE IN EARTHEN VESSELS." (2 CORINTHIANS 4:7)

Honored, but not exalted!

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When God calls you to do something, it means you're called to a higher level of accountability. Jesus said, "Unto whom much is given, of him shall much be required." (See Lk 12:48). But this is where we get it wrong. We think those who are called, are not cut from the same bolt of cloth as others. Wrong! Just because someone prays powerfully and delivers God's Word skillfully, doesn't mean they don't struggle in certain areas. Their struggles may be unseen, but they're still real. We must be careful to make distinction between the treasure and the vessel. If you're a leader, never allow anyone to expect you to be the treasure. Keep your ego in check. Paul says: "We have this treasure," he didn't say we are the treasure!

Let's face it, God uses people we wouldn't use, like Rahab, working the red light district of Jericho. But when she placed her faith in God He used her to win the battle of Jericho, then included her in the family of Christ. Or how about Jephthah who was born to an unwed mother, rejected by his family, and lived in a cave with his own gang of private mercenaries? God used him to deliver Israel and become the nation's youngest judge. Isn't grace amazing?

God specializes in restoring broken vessels. He takes things that aren't productive - marriages that don't work, people with "issues" - and teaches them how to be victorious and fruitful in His service. Knowing this gives us the strength and tenacity to face whatever comes, because we know that when God places His treasure within us, He prizes, protects and prospers it.

Daily Bread Video Reading - "One Passion"

It Is What It Is/Where I'm At 7/13

Daily Reading "You Have Left Your First Love." Revelation 2:4 NKVJ

Here is how it read today.

Mon. July 13

"YOU HAVE LEFT YOUR FIRST LOVE." (REVELATION 2:4 NKJV)
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.What to do when the sizzle fizzles (3)

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The second "R" for renewing your first love is repent; change your mind, direction, and actions. You can't solve a problem with the same thinking and behaviors that created it; new thinking and actions are required. If your relationship once sizzled, you still have what's needed to make it sizzle again. You've been remembering what you were doing at "the height" of the relationship. You've acknowledged that those actions made the relationship exciting and fulfilling, that you stopped doing them, and that you "[left behind] your first love." Now you're ready to repent (which means to turn around) and go back to where you were when the flame of love burned brightly.
The third "R" of renewal is reenact; "Do the things you did first" (Rev 2:5 NIV). List the things you used to do when the relationship was great. Each of you should prayerfully and privately commit to doing a couple of the listed items, without telling your partner which ones you chose. Try to "catch" your partner reenacting "the things you did first" and let them know how much it means to you that they cared enough to do it. You'll get more of what you reinforce by gratitude. But a word to the wise: at first it may feel strange, even unreal, when you begin to reenact those early behaviors. Be patient, that will change. Just keep doing it. And don't wait till you feel like it. You can act your way into new ways of feeling, even when you can't feel your way into new ways of acting. Do it till you feel it, till the joy of your first love reignites!

Daily Bread Video Reading "First Church Of The Lampstand"

It Is What It Is/Where I'm At 7/3

"The Fruit Of The Spirit Is...Self-Control." Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

Here is how it read today...

Fri. July 3

"THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS...SELF-CONTROL." (GALATIANS 5:22-23 NIV)

Exercise control, without being controlling

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There are two kinds of people: the controller and the self-controlled. Which one are you? Let's find out: The controller believes that "the Devil does it to them" or people, or circumstances, so they respond by blaming, resenting, or projecting frustration. They keep on trying to manipulate people and circumstances to their advantage. But people and circumstances usually don't submit to our control, so their attempts only intensify their pain and turn their relationship into power struggles. The more they try to control the worse they feel; the worse they feel the more they try to control. Refuse to live that way. The self-controlled understand that the Devil can do nothing to them without their cooperation, and that they don't have to give it. They understand that people and circumstances aren't their problem either - how they deal with them is. So they respond by reminding themselves of three things: (1) The person I need to control is me. (2) Sometimes I must turn the people and circumstances in my life over to God and allow Him to deal with them. (3) I must draw on the Holy Spirit's power in order to control my reactions and follow the "sound mind" principles of Scripture for staying in charge of my life (See 2Ti 1:7). As a result they avoid engaging in blame-games, self-inflicted pain, and turning relationships into war zones. Knowing that "the fruit of the Spirit is...self-control" they understand that the Spirit won't control them, or help them control others and manipulate circumstances, but He will empower them to control themselves. Spirit-empowered people are freed from being part of the problem, and become part of the solution God is bringing about!

Daily Bread Video Reading - "Job's Principle"

The Start Of Something Big (con't)

So here I am post birthday weekend for Rita and as I explained in the last segment, feeling like I'm simply walking the plank but doing it with my head up and with honor. So my phillies win and I attend the parade and have a ball. That same weekend was Rita's bday weekend and shortly after that was election day, so needless to say it was a pretty experienced filled moment in my life. So America voted for the 1st black president to take over the most powerful country on earth and I was delighted to share a part in this historic event. So once again, I was experiencing all these once in a lifetime events and it was very hard to fully appreciate them because my heart was not at ease.

As time would eventually tell, she eventually gets her car and in less than a week, she got her single title back as well. I just wanted to understand why it couldn't work at the end of the day. Rather than harp on the different issues and who may have been right or wrong, when it first hit me I of course rebelled against the idea, but had to realize that you can't force love. So here I stood hurt, so I immediately went to the most reliable source I could, which was God. In a simple sort of way and as much as I wanted to not go with it, I knew this is what I asked and prayed for. This wasn't my direct doing but His doing. As I conversed with others and listened to what they had to say I soon realized a ton of things about myself that at one point in time never existed in me. This is where my moment of clarity first came and this is where the start of something big was born.

Through my conversations I realized that I'm even more unselfish than I openly express. That I was in a relationship that was damn near 30:70 rather than 50:50, and I didn't mind getting 30%. I realized that I could love anyone regardless of their past sins. That I could put it out of my mind and focus on the true good in a person and base my love on just that alone. I proved that I could seriously open up, let go and be at the mercy of the person that I was with. Although I moved to West Chester, I literally still ended up staying at her place because I desperately wanted to make it work. So in retrospect I basically sacrificed more than I had to hopefully retain what I valued most at the time.

Unfortunately none of what I did and what I sacrificed was enough and I soon came to realize that there was nothing more that I could have done. I tried my best to stick to a set of morals that I wasn't going to depart from although at times I may have went against them to keep her happy. I realized that my relationship with God and doing right by Him was more important to me than doing what made any human being happy. I realized that staying in that relationship would have been a constant tug of war between the two and that's why I ended up where I was and this help me understand why I was single again. It was now time for me to focus on that which mattered most in life which is first God and then of course myself.

It took me about 3 to 4 months to somewhat get over my other ex before Rita, but it literally took me somewhere in the realm of 2 to 3 weeks for me to fully understand and accept how my situation played out with Syreeta. God put us together at that season for specific reasons that til this day I will always appreciate. I've learned so much more about myself from that experience and it has helped me grow exponentially in my walk with God and doing my best to live right by Him. While I still to this day love every woman I was with in my past, I can say that my time with Rita has shown me more about myself than any other and for that I will love our situation the most.

Now when you can take your hurt and truly turn it into something you learn from, truly value and eventually love, is that not something to be excited about. I know now that I can go through pretty much anything and accept it, grow from it, learn from it, and hopefully share it with others so that they may learn from it. Is that not amazing. In knowing this, I can't wait for the direction my life takes and journey the path I am on because I know in the end, I will only grow more, excel more, learn more and hopefully share more. As I grow closer to becoming what He wants me to be I know I will be put in a place to truly show off His mercy, grace, love, and blessings and I can't wait. This is the start of something big, and I am more than excited and appreciative to be on this path.

"There Met Him Ten Men Who Were Lepers." Luke 17:12 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

"THERE MET HIM TEN MEN WHO WERE LEPERS." (LUKE 17:12 NKJV)

Are you losing yourself?

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Luke records: "There met Him ten...lepers...they lifted up their voices and said, 'Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!'...He said to them, 'Go, show yourselves to the priests.' And...as they went, they were cleansed" (Lk 17:12-14 NKJV). Leprosy was a slow, painful death. First you lost your fingers and couldn't work, then you lost your toes and couldn't walk, then it attacked your internal organs. Every day you lost a little more of yourself. Here are five helpful insights from this story:

(1) If you feel like you're "losing yourself," turn to Jesus. He can restore what you've lost and give you back your peace and joy. (2) "Lift up your voice." Away with dignity and decorum! Desperate people do desperate things. God promises: "You will...find me when you seek me with all your heart" (Jer 29:13 NIV). (3) Whatever He tells you - do it. Don't lay down conditions to God. And don't seek an identical experience to somebody else. Jesus told the ten lepers, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." Why didn't He just speak to them or touch them like He did others? Don't question, obey! Faith doesn't demand explanations. (4) Take a step of faith. Luke records, "As they went, they were cleansed." You've go to walk it out; each step brings you one step closer. But nothing happens till you take that first step of faith. (5) Start praising God! Only one of the ten lepers returned to give thanks, and Jesus noticed it. You can go to God with confidence for you next answer, when you know you remembered to give Him thanks for your last one.

"Whatever You Do, Whether In Word Or Deed, Do It All In The Name Of The Lord Jesus." (Colossians 3:17 NIV

Here is how it read today...

Wed. July 1

"WHATEVER YOU DO, WHETHER IN WORD OR DEED, DO IT ALL IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS." (COLOSSIANS 3:17 NIV)

Work in Jesus' name

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John Orthberg writes: "We all work. We all create value - that's what work is. But what would it look like for you to work in Jesus' name? Well, first, work would become something you do together with Him. You were not meant to work on your own. So, tomorrow, take a moment at the beginning of your workday when you sit down at your desk or your computer or in your home, and invite Jesus to partner with you. Tell Him, 'Today, I'm not going to work by myself.' Any time throughout your workday when you have a tough problem, ask Him for help. When you have a difficult decision to make, ask Him for wisdom - then listen and be really open. When you find your energy flagging, ask Him for renewed strength. When you find your attitude turning negative, ask Him to re-orient your heart. Put a symbol on your desk or wall where you can see it to remind you that today you and Jesus are partnering together in your work. Every few hours as you're working, pause for two or three minutes. Thank Him for his help. Hand Him your worries. Ask for His energy. Every moment is an opportunity to be with Jesus. When you forget - and you will, when you mess up - and you will, remember this really important rule: there's to be no beating yourself up! Every moment is another chance. God just keeps sending them. That's grace. Every moment of your workday is a new chance for you to be with Him.

"That The Son Of God May Be Glorified Through It." John 11:4 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

Tues. June 30

"THAT THE SON OF GOD MAY BE GLORIFIED THROUGH IT." (JOHN 11:4 NKJV)

Lessons from Lazarus (2)

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Here are three more lessons from Lazarus:

(1) God has a bigger and better plan in mind. Lazarus was four days dead when Jesus arrived. When the Lord waits, it's for two reasons: (a) That He may be glorified. The Pharisees believed that your spirit left your corpse on the fourth day after you died. So if Jesus had intervened earlier they'd have said, "He wasn't really dead." Hence He told His disciples, "This sickness is...for the glory of God" (Jn 11:4 NKJV). It's in looking back that we clearly see God's hand at work. (b) That our faith may be strengthened Jesus said, "I am glad for your sake that I was not there, that you may believe" (Jn 11:15 NKJV). In life, crises come and go. Your next crisis will be different from your last one, but the thing that must remain strong is your faith. (2) God will ask you to remove the hindrances and deal with the stench. "Jesus said, 'Take away the stone.' Martha...said to Him, 'Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days'" (Jn 11:38-39 NKJV). Are you praying for an answer in one area, while God's telling you to take away the stone and deal with a "stench" buried in another? Surrender, you can't win! When you heart's right with God your prayers will be answered. (3) God wants to make you a living testimony! Everywhere Lazarus went, without even speaking a word, his life declared that Jesus is Lord. And the same should be true of you. God has saved and raised you up to be a testimony to His grace and goodness.

"But Even Now I Know." John 11:22 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

Mon. June 29

"BUT EVEN NOW I KNOW." (JOHN 11:22 NKJV)

Lesson from Lazarus (1)

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Lesson one: Jesus knows how you feel. At Lazarus' funeral, "Jesus wept. Then the Jews said, "See how He loved him!" (Jn 11:35-36 NKJV). This story proves we serve a God who can not only raise the dead, but can "sympathize with us" (See Heb 4:15 NKJV). So if you're grieving today turn to God and allow Him to comfort you. Lesson two: Jesus can give you back what life's taken from you. He can "restore to you the years" that life has stolen (See Joel 2:25). Claim that promise; take it to the place where you've lost so much, and ask God to replace and renew. Martha said, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You" (Jn 11:21-22 NKJV). Instead of saying "if only," pray "even now I know." It's not too late, God can move on your behalf. Lesson three: Jesus can set you free. "He cried...'Lazarus, come forth!' And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes...Jesus said...'Loose him, and let him go'" (Jn 11:43-44 NKJV). God's Word is greater than the thing that has bound, limited or enslaved you. Even though your mind doesn't fully comprehend it, let your spirit respond to God. Pray with the Psalmist, "Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law; indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, for I delight in it" (Ps 119:34-35 NKJV). When you pray such a prayer your faith will grow, and the circumstances that seem impossible will be changed by God.

"He Has Made Perfect Forever Those Who Are Being Made Holy." Hebrews 10:14 NIV

Here is how it read today...

Sat. June 27

"HE HAS MADE PERFECT FOREVER THOSE WHO ARE MADE HOLY." (HEBREWS 10:14 NIV)

Stop putting yourself down

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When you disregard your positive qualities by telling yourself, "I'm too fat, I'm no good, I never do anything right," you'll always find verification of what you're looking for. Dr. Richard Carlson says, "Putting yourself down reinforces rather than corrects your imperfections by placing unnecessary attention and energy on everything that's wrong, rather than what's right with you. Why would you do this knowing the only possible result is a negative outlook, more negative feelings and less appreciation for the gift of life? People who regularly put themselves down are often seen as complainers, not to mention the example they set. Everyone has aspects of themselves they'd like to improve, but this doesn't mean you should beat yourself up. Here on earth none of us is ever going to be perfect, but putting yourself down isn't the answer."

The Bible says God, "has made perfect forever those who are being made holy." Max Lucado writes: "Underline the word perfect. Note, the word isn't better. Not improving. Not on the upswing. God doesn't improve; he perfects., He doesn't enhance; he completes...I realize there's a sense in which we're imperfect. We still err. We still stumble. We still do exactly what we don't want to do...that part of us is 'being made holy.' But when it comes to our position before God, we're perfect. When he sees each of us, he sees someone who has been made perfect through the One who is perfect - Jesus Christ." It's okay to work on improving yourself, but go easy; stop often and remind yourself that you're "being made new...becoming like the one who made you" (Col 3:10 NCV).

"Don't Sin By Letting Anger Control You." Ephesians 4:26 NLT

Here is how it read today...

Fri. June 26

"DON'T SING BY LETTING ANGER CONTROL YOU." (EPHESIANS 4:26 NLT)

Handling your anger the right way

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A guy's car stalled at an intersection causing a chorus of honking horns from behind. He got out, walked calmly to the next car in line and said, "Sorry, I can't get my car started. If you'd like to give ti a shot I'll sit here and honk your horn!" When you don't know how to handly your anger properly, two things happen: (1) You stay angry. You walk around with your thermostat at boiling point. Be realistic. More problems in life are forgotten than are ever resolved to our liking. (2) You don't get angry even when it's appropriate. Consequently, issues that could build character, end up creating vacililation and indifference. Express your anger the right way! When you lack the courage to confront your boss or an associate at work, you're more likely to explode at home. Jesus said, "If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you" (Mt 18:15 NIV). Sometimes we're supposed to get angry. Paul writes: "When Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed...he would eat with the Gentiles; but when [the Jews] came, he...seperated himself, fearing [them]...the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite...so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy" (Gal 2:11-13 NKJV). It's wrong to tolerate wrong when you can do something about it. Just do it the scriptural way. Say what you have to in kindness. This is called "speaking the truth in love" (Eph 4:15). Slamming doors and storming out are un-Christ like and counterproductive. Direct your anger toward the problem, not the person.

"The Glory Of Lebanon Shall Be Given To It." Isaiah 35:2 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

Thur. June 25

"THE GLORY OF LEBANON SHALL BE GIVEN TO IT." (ISAIAH 35:2 NKJV)

Tall Cedars

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Towering above other cedars that grew on the mountains of Lebanon was the tall cedar. However, its strength was not in its height but in the depth of its root system. It's said that the tall cedar could bend almost to the ground without breaking, and come back stronger. Today God uses tall cedars to build great churches.

The new birth is only 5% of the process; the other 95% is growing up into spiritual maturity. "Though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's Word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity" (Heb 5:12-6:1 NIV). Note the words "who by constant use have trained themselves [in the Scriptures]." You can't be like the old farmer who always testified at the Wednesday night prayer meeting. "I'm not making much progress, but thank God I'm established." One spring when his tractor was bogged down, its wheels spinning but going nowhere, the pastor happened to drive by. Rolling down his window, the preacher smiled and said: "Think of it this way brother, you may not be making much progress, but thank God you're established." No more excuses for immaturity! You must strive to be "mature and full grown in the Lord...becoming more and more in every way like Christ" (See Eph 4:13 NLT).

Daily Reading - "The Glory Of Lebanon Shall Be Given To It." Isaiah 35:2 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

Tue. June 23

"THE GLORY OF LEBANON SHALL BE GIVEN TO IT." (ISAIAH 35:2 NKJV)

Fire Cedars

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Another cedar Solomon used to build the temple was called the fire cedar. It's said that shepherds used it to make fires at night because it was saturated in oil, would ignite easily, and burn a long time. What a picture.

God gathered 120 fire cedars in the upper room, and "suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit" (Ac 2:2-4 NKJV). That day 3,000 souls were won to Christ! The church was born in the fire and has been sustained by the fire - and we must not let that fire go out! Even in the days of the Old Testament tabernacle, God commanded His people to take the fire that burned on the altar and carry it with them wherever they went. Getting the idea? A lot that passes for "revival" or "renewal" today seems to be nothing more than "waves" that come and go. We are never more vulnerable than when we are spiritually hungry, because at that point we stand on the threshold of two spiritual realms. The way to discern true revival is to ask ourselves four questions: (1) Is it scriptural? (See Isa 8:20). (2) Does it magnify the person of Christ? (See Jn 3:30 NKJV). (3) Does it demonstrate God's love? (See Ac 2:44-45). (4) Does it win souls and turn them into disciples? "By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples" (Jn 15:8 NKJV).

Daily Bread Video Reading - "A Powerful Message"

"The Glory Of Lebanon Shall Be Given To It." Isaiah 35:2 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

Mon. June 22

"THE GLORY OF LEBANON SHALL BE GIVEN TO IT." (ISAIAH 35:2 NKJV)

Little cedars

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Solomon used the cedars of Lebanon to build the temple. When it was complete, the glory of God filled it. Let's look at four different types of cedars God still uses to build His church.

Little cedars. They were used to make fence posts for sheep pens. A guide tells of seeing a truckload of little cedars being transported over a road filled with potholes, twists and turns. Even thought they weren't tied on, not one fell off. What a picture of consistency and stick-to-it-iveness! These folks have what it takes to survive the potholes and make it through the twists and turns of life. It's said that people don't determine their future, they determine their habits and their habits determine their future. And little cedars have habits like:

(a) Praying. They talk to God - then take time to listen: "Morning by morning, He wakens my ear to hear as the learned" (Isa 50:4 NKJV). (b) Bible reading. "Ezra...prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it" (Ezr 7:10 NKJV). Do you approach God's Word with a prepared heart and a willingness to obey? (c) Witnessing. "You are My witnesses" (Isa 43:10 NKJV). The credibility of a witness in court determines which side wins. How credible is your testimony? (d) Tithing. "Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstf ruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing" (Pr 3:9-10 NIV). You say, "But when I've paid my bills I don't have much left over." God wants to be first in your finances, not last. When you put Him first, His blessings will overflow into every area of your life.

"The Glory Of Lebanon Shall Be Given To It." Isaiah 35:2 NKJV

Daily Reading - "Many Shall Run To And Fro, And Knowledge Shall Increase." Daniel 12:4 NKJV

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"MANY SHALL RUN TO AND FRO, AND KNOWLEDGE SHALL INCREASE." (DANIEL 12:4 NKJV)

Information overload! (1)

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Technology lets us do things we've never been able to do, but it can be addictive. You can become tied to it in ways that are exhausting. One expert notes: "There's a strong tendency for humans to do everything they're able to. Combine that with constant connectivity, and the workday need never end. It's easy to contact anyone anytime, and with information always available on line you can keep clicking forever." Paul writes about "making the most of your time" (Eph 5:16 NAS). We say, "Time is money," but in actuality time is much more valuable, because it's a nonrenewable resource. Once spent, it's gone forever. Managing information overload means reestablishing boundaries that technology has demolished. So:

Recognize the signs: if you communicate with people all day yet you're still lonely, chances are, technology is dominating your life. Take baby steps: make yourself unavailable for short periods and see what happens. The wheels of industry won't grind to a halt! Remember you have a choice: people who think they should be available 24?7, exaggerate their own importance or the control others have over them. Establish boundaries: reining the emails and instant messages. Do you really need all those "FYI's" about the same thing? Give clear instructions: tell people you answers emails at designated times throughout the day, and let them know who to contact for an immediate response. Make a task list: that way if you're interrupted you'll get back on track faster. Stick to a schedule: constantly dipping in and out on the computer is classic self-interruption. Do a reality check: after a few minutes surfing the web ask yourself, "Should I be doing this now?"

Daily Bread Video Reading - "My Two Cents"

HAPPY BDAY BRO-HAM!!!

Special Selection - "Shake Yourself Loose"

Daily Reading - "Take In...The Extravagant Dimension Of Christ's Love." Ephesians 3:18 TM

Here is how it read today...

Mon. June 15

"TAKE IN...THE EXTRAVAGANT DIMENSIONS OF CHRIST'S LOVE." (EPHESIANS 3:18 TM)

God's incredible love for us

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George Matheson was told by his doctor that he was going blind. Not to be denied, he pursued his studies, graduating from the University of Glasgow in 1861 at the age of nineteen. By the time he finished graduate seminary studies, he'd lost his sight. To make matters worse, his fiancee returned the engagement ring with a note, "I cannot go through life bound by chains of marriage to a blind man." Matheson never married, and never fully recovered from his broken heart. He became powerful and poetic pastor, led a full and inspiring life, yet occasionally the pain of loneliness flared up, as it did later at his sister's wedding. The ceremony brought back memories of the love he had lost. In response, he turned to the incredible love of God for comfort and penned these words on June 6, 1882: O love that wilt not let me go, I rest my weary soul in thee; I give thee back the life I owe, that in thine ocean depth its flow may richer, fuller be.

Consider the stubborn love of Hosea for his wife Gomer. Hopping from one lover to another, she ruined his life. Destitute, she was placed for sale in a slave market. Guess who stepped forward to buy her. Hosea, who'd never removed his wedding band. God uses this story to illustrate His steadfast love for us. He told Hosea: "Love her the way I, God, love the Israelite people" (Hos 3:1 TM). God loves you with an incredible love. You can't win it being winsome, or lose it by being a loser. But you can be blind and resist it. Don't!

Daily Bread Video Reading - "Ongoing Encouragement"

Daily Reading - "The Wisdom That Is from Above Is..." James 3:17

Here is how it read today...

Sun. June 14

"The Wisdom That Is From Above Is..." (James 3:17)

The ultimate source of wisdom

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As you go through life you discover there are many ways to gain wisdom, such as (1) Writing down and reflecting on what you've learned through experience. (2) Gleaning from the collective knowledge of others. "By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom" (Pr 13:10 NKJV). (3) Thinking outside the box. Statements like, "This is the way we do things around here" warrant scrutiny when they're used to defend ways that no longer work. (4) Not rushing to closure. Growth is always a work-in-progress. Creativity is untidy and unnerving. The ability to stay focused and faith-filled in the midst of change is a hallmark of maturity.

But the ultimate source of wisdom is God! A young executive told his secretary he'd an important meeting and didn't want to be interrupted. But his boss needed to see him and walked in. When he found the young executive on his knees praying, he withdrew quietly and asked the secretary, "Is this usual?" "Yes," she replied, "he does it every morning." "No wonder I come to him for advice!" said his boss. If you need wisdom, talk to God: "For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding" (Pr 2:6 NKJV). "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally...and it will be given to him" (Jas 1:5 NKJV). '"The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peacable, gentle, willing to yield full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy" (Jas 3:17 NKJV). "I will intruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you" (Ps 32:8 NKJV).

Daily Reading - "Anxiety In The Heart Of Man Causes Depression, But A Good Word Makes It Glad." Proverbs 12:25 NKJV

Here's how it read today...

Sat. June 13

"ANXIETY IN THE HEART OF MAN CAUSES DEPRESSION, BUT A GOOD WORD MAKES IT GLAD." (PROVERBS 12:25 NKJV)

Today, encourage somebody (2)

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Henry Ford and Thomas Edison were friends, they met at a convention sponsored by Edison's company where Ford worked as an engineer. Someone introduced Ford to Edison as "a young man who has made a gas car." Ford and Edison talked a while about the automobile, then Edison banged his fist on the table with excitement. "You have it! Your car is self-contained and carries its own power plant." Ford later recalled, "No man up to then had given me any encouragement, I had hoped that I was headed right. Sometimes I knew that I was, sometimes I only wondered, but here, out of a clear sky, the greatest inventive genius in the world had given me complete approval." Sir Isaac Newton is best known for his Theory of Gravitation and description of the Three Laws of Motion. But Newton might never have published his work had it not been for Edmond Halley. A well-respected scientist in his own right, Halley visited Newton at Cambridge to discuss a problem he was working on, only to discover that Newton had already solved it. Halley encouraged Newton to publish his work, and even offered to do it at his own expense. The result was the publication of Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica in 1687, which had the groundwork for the study of mathematics and changed the way people see the world.

Who can you encourage to do great things? Who has God put into your life to cheer on, raise up, or assist on their journey? When you help others to do the things God created them to do, you share in their achievement.

Daily Reading - "Anxiety In The Heart Of Man Causes Depression, But A Good Word Makes It Glad." Proverbs 12:25 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

Fri. June 12

"ANXIETY IN THE HEART OF MAN CAUSES DEPRESSION, BUT A GOOD WORD MAKES IT GLAD." (PROVERBS 12:25 NKJV)

Today, encourage somebody (1)

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The nineteenth-century writer Walt Whitman struggled for years to get anyone interested in his poetry. In the midst of his discouragement he received a life-changing note from an admirer of his work. The note read, "Dear Sir, I am not blind to the worth of the wonderful gift of Leaves of Grass. I find it the most extraordinary piece of wit and wisdom that America has yet contributed. I greet you at the beginning of a great career." It was signed Ralph Waldo Emerson. Whitman enjoyed a long career and is now considered one of the giants of American literature. But when times were tough he needed encouragement to keep going. And he's not alone. When we're on the bring of failure, the right word at the right time can keep us in the game. When we're too tired or discouraged to keep going, an act of compassion can give us new strength. Encouragement is one of the central themes of the Bible: "Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad" (Pr 12:25 NKJV). "Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees" (Isa 35:3 NKJV). "For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, 'Fear not, I will help you'" (Isa 41:13 NKJV). Encouragement doesn't deny the problem; it enables us to overcome it. It doesn't validate stubbornness or stupidity; it simply corrects and guides us in the right path. It doesn't leave us alone to carry the burden, it lets us know that God is present to help and strengthen us. So today, encourage somebody!

Daily Reading - "Any Enterprise Is Built By Wise Planning, Becomes Strong." Proverbs 24:3 TLB

Here is how it read today...

Thur. June 11

"ANY ENTERPRISE IF BUILT BY WISE PLANNING, BECOMES STRONG." (PROVERBS 24:3 TLB)

If you want to succeed - prepare well!

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What happens when you're not well-prepared? Things you hope won't happen, do, and they occur with greater frequency than the things you hope will happen. The dividing line between winning and losing - is preparation! Tennis champion Arthur Ashe said, "The key to winning is self-confidence, and the key to self-confidence is preparation." Singing, "If you wish upon a star" won't make your dreams come true; you've got to prepare yourself.

Ever wonder what Jesus was doing during those pre-dawn risings and nights of prayer? Preparing! If you plan to keep growing, preparation must become a way of life. You must never stop asking, "Lord, what do You want me to do? What will it cost me in time, effort and resources? What obstacles must I overcome?" If you live with that mindset you'll be well on your way to fulfilling God's purpose for your life.

Asked how long it would take to bring his ship to a stop, the Queen Mary's captain replied, "A little over a mile." Then he added, "A good captain thinks at least a mile ahead." Your success in any venture is determined by how important it is to you, and your ability to prepare for it. The Living Bible paraphrases it this way: "Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense, and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts." Alexander Hamilton, a founding father of the United States, said, "Men give me credit for genius, but all the genius I have lies in this: when I have a subject to hand, I study it profoundly." So, if you want to succeed - prepare well!

Daily Bread Video Reading - "Religious Nuts"

Special Selection - "Wait On The Lord"

Daily Reading - "Everyone Should Be Quick To Listen, Slow To Speak." James 1:19 NIV

Here is how it read today...

Wed. June 10

"EVERYONE SHOULD BE QUICK TO LISTEN, SLOW TO SPEAK." (JAMES 1:19 NIV)

Are you a good listener?

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Someone quipped, "God gave us two ear and one mouth because we need to listen twice as much as we talk." Learning that means being "quick to listen, slow to speak." Good listening builds relationships. But good listeners aren't born, they're bred! So here are a few suggestions to improve your listening:

(1) Listen without interrupting. Resist the temptation to jump in and finish the sentence, or hijack the floor. Rein yourself in - just listen. (2) Listen to understand. Try to understand their point of view, feelings, thinking and needs. Good listening is hearing what they actually think, mean or feel, not what you imagine they do. Instead of guessing, ask, "Am I understanding you correctly? Do you mean...? Are you feeling...?" In other words, don't assume - verify. (3) Listen without judging. Don't rush to conclusions. If what they say doesn't quite add up, keep listening. "He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him" (Pr 18:13 NKJV). When you hear more, it may make sense. (4) Listen without correcting, countering or devaluing. Saying, "That's not the way it was," or, "What did you expect? If you hadn't..." or, "You're just being too sensitive," puts people on guard and stops real communication. (5) Validate the speaker. Accept their perceptions and feelings as valid expressions of a valued person. "If I understand you correctly, you're thinking...feling...Am I right?" Ask them to help get you on the same page with them. "Given what you've told me, I can see why you'd feel what you feel," is very validating and will increase their confidence and willingness to consider the solutions you may offer.

Daily Reading - "The Sacrifices Of God Are A Broken Spirit." Psalm 51:17 NIV

Here is how it read today...

Tues. June 9

"THE SACRIFICES OF GOD ARE A BROKEN SPIRIT." (PSALM 51:17 NIV)

Brokenness (4)

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We don't always know the reason for our trials, but God revealed to Paul the reason for his "thorn in the flesh." It was to keep him from being "exalted" (see 2Co 12:7). Success can be intoxicating, and intoxicated people aren't known for being too bright or trustworthy!

What happens when you get a thorn in your flesh? It hurts. And you'll let everything else go while you focus on removing it. Three times Paul prayed for God to remove the thorn, but God had another plan. You see, God is at His strongest when you are at your weakest. When Paul discovered that God's power in his life was tied to the thorn that afflicted him, he responded, "I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities...For whenever I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Co 12:10 NRS). In other words, "If it's for my good, bring it on, Lord!" If you've a thorny person in your life from whom you've prayed to be delivered and it hasn't happened, maybe God wants you to experience this until you move from pain to praise. The Bible speaks about "the sacrifice of praise to God" (Heb 13:15). A sacrifice means that something has to die on somebody's altar. So if you want to experience God's grace and power in your life, you must be willing to die to self-interest, ego, and independence. There's nothing wrong with asking God to remove your thorn. But when your prayer for deliverance turns to praise, you're on your way to power, because God is giving you grace.

Daily Bread Video Reading - "Risk"

Daily Reading - "The Sacrifices Of God Are A Broken Spirit." Psalm 51:17 NIV

Here is how it read today...

Mon. June 8

"THE SACRIFICES OF GOD ARE A BROKEN SPIRIT." (PSALM 51:17 NIV)

Brokenness (3)

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Sometimes God allows us to hit the bottom in order to discover that He's the rock at the bottom. Gideon faces an army of 135,000 troops with just 32,000 men. And 22,000 of them left the battlefield and went home when he offered them the chance. Do the math. Gideon's thinking, "There's no way we can win!" Then God explains: "The people who are with you are too many for Me to give Midian into their hands, for Israel would become boastful, saying, 'My own power has delivered me" (Jdg 7:2 NAS). There it is again, the age-old battle of ego that we all fight daily. It's why the Lord's Prayer ends with: "Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever, Amen" (Mt 6:13). Where does our power come from? God! Who should the glory for out accomplishments go to? God! How long does this arrangement last? Forever!

God had to break Jacob of self-sufficiency so the "Israel" within him could come out. Sometimes God has to take you down before He can raise you up. Moses called the meekest man on earth. But it took forty years of living as a shepherd in the wilderness to detox him of pride and get him submitted to God. Only then was he ready to stand before Pharaoh and perform miracles that demonstrated God's power - and vindicated Moses!

Brokenness doesn't mean being a wimp, suffering from an inferiority complex or having a case of low self-esteem. No, brokenness means praying, "Lord, if this job is going to get done, and done right, You're going to have to do it through me. So my trust is in You."

Daily Bread Video Reading - "A Life Remembered"

Daily Reading - "The Sacrifices Of God Are A Broken Spirit." Psalm 51:17 NIV

Here is how it read today.

"THE SACRIFICES OF GOD ARE A BROKEN SPIRIT." (PSALM 51:17 NIV)

Brokenness (1)

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A world that celebrates success doesn't see value in broken things. But God brings beauty out of brokenness. For a plant to rise from the soil the seed must be broken. For a baby chick to experience larger life the shell must be broken. Even a thoroughbred horse mus the broken; it must learn to respond to the tug of the rein and the sound of the master's voice. Getting the idea? After a humbling encounter with Christ on the Damascus Road, Paul reevaluates all the religious activity he once boasted about and calls it "dung" (Php 3:8). And you don't brag about dung, you're repulsed by it.

Broken is the work of God by which He strips us of self-sufficiency so that the character of Christ may shine through us. Now don't misunderstand: being broken doesn't necessarily mean experiencing some tragedy. Many people suffer tragedy without drawing closer to God or even acknowledging Him. Indeed, the same sunshine that melts the butter hardens the clay. The issue in brokenness is not so much our circumstances, but our response. What is God trying to teach us? True brokenness is when He strips us of self-sufficiency to the extent that we've no strength left to fix ourselves. When God blocks every exit we try to take and we come to see that He alone is our answer, we make a life changing discovery. "And what's that?" you ask. When God is all you have - God is all you need! Bottom line: God's power is reserved for those who have given up trying to do it in their own strength or to accomplish it for their own ends!

Daily Reaing - "With God All Things Are Possible." Matthew 19:26

Here is how it read today...

Fri. June 5

"WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE." (MATTHEW 19:26)

Believe God for great things!

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The poet wrote, "Beware of those who stand aloof, and greet each venture with reproof. The world would stop if things were run, by those who say, 'It can't be done.'" Refuse to let the word "impossible" stop you. Jesus said, "With God all things are possible." If those who've changed the world had left every "impossible" task undone, we'd still be living in the Dark Ages. Here are four examples:

(1) German experts predicted that trains traveling at 25 mph would cause severe nose bleeds and the passengers would suffocate going through tunnels. American experts added that we'd need more mental institutions because people would go mad when they saw the first trains. (2) When YWCA first announced typing classes for women, there was a furious backlash on the grounds that the "female constitution would deteriorate under such strain." (3) Experts insisted that iron ships would never float, that the iron would wreak havoc with the compass readings. (4) In 1797 New Jersey farmers denounced the first cast-iron plow, insisting it would poison the land and stimulate weeds. So much for "experts!"

More of us are persuaded into believing for too little than believing for too much. Vision is essential for survival. And a God-given vision is conceived by faith, sustained by prayer and fueled by God's Word. It's not about what you can do, but what God can do with your life when it's fully surrendered to Him. It encompasses things outside the realm of the predictable, the safe, and the expected. "Where there is no vision, the people perish." (Pr 29:18). If God has given you a vision - pursue it, and believe Him for great things!

Daily Bread Video Reading - "Adopted"

The Start of Something Big (con't)

So here I am, shortly after celebrating a one year anniversary feeling like I'm now walking on egg shells. I wake up, pray, workout, work, socialize, workout, pray, sleep. Everyone at work notices a difference in my demeanor and at my one job we are like a family so I let them know the situation and they all agree I don't deserve to be in my situation. I basically felt like after her birthday which was in the beginning of November she would be quick to be done with me. By then she would have a car and I would already have attended her party and brunch. My prayers weren't that we would stay together but that he would simply put me where I am suppose to be and do with me what he needs me to do. I have never been the person to walk away from a relationship it has always been the other half, and I wasn't going to quit on this one. It was just very difficult to not feel the way I felt. Still I pushed on, did the best I could with what I could do and continued to live my life the right way.

Don't know if it would be needless to say, but it seemed as if nothing I did was good enough. I was basically living at her spot once again, although still paying bills for a place in West Chester. There wasn't a 3 day period where I didn't do something to get on her nerves no matter how hard I tried. Still, I stayed calm, tried to gain understanding and improve my efforts. The thing that sucked most about this was the fact that my Phillies were doing so good in the playoffs and eventually the world series. As enjoyable as it was, this would eventually make it the most bittersweet of moments I have ever experienced in my entire life.. Also the presidential election was coming soon which was a historical event in itself. All these possible wonderful happenings were in the midst but making them all somewhat sour was my relationship. It just proved how even when everything can be going so wonderful, if your heart is not at ease, it's just not enough to keep even a true smile on your face, because the pain will still show itself.

So the nite of her party I worked ALL DAY, literally. I worked from open til close. Although my one job doesn't always tire you out, not having my mind stimulated drains a person like me drastically. So we worked out a plan way beforehand of her picking me up and so on and so forth. From the time she picked me up, I was repeatedly yelled at, poked, ridiculed, or what have you. From me driving too slow or taking too long to get ready, which anyone who knows me know I don't take long at all. I ended up receiving a very important business call and this was something that I consider to be extremely important and although we were in the car and what not, she still wasn't feeling that due to the fact that it wasn't about her at that point in time.

We get to the club, I finish my phone call, meet her father and step mom in the club. I proceed to walk towards a tv because after all, I haven't seen any sports all day and it is a Saturday night in the fall, so I had a lot to catch up on. Outside of that, she had friends there so I figured I would just let her be, she would come to me when she wanted something. Also at this time I was not drinking at all so there really wasn't anything left for me to do because I despise yelling, yes yelling, because you can't just talk in clubs and have a conversation. So eventually she comes over, I think she asked if I would buy her a drink or something, who knows, I just gave her my wallet and continued to watch espn. She eventually apologizes because even her cousin said she would have hit her if she was me. So we dance and I let her go back to having fun because as I previously said, I was really tired and really just playing the role of the sober friend who made sure nothing got out of hand. So I guess you could say the night was a success because she had fun without too many problems. This would eventually end up being the last time I would actively go against my will and have sex.

I wake up early and go to church with my mother as I told her I would and we eventually beat Rita and her famil to Warm Daddy's for her birthday brunch. To make this story short, that place is a heart attack waiting to happen good. Very nice entertainment, and it was chill for the most part, but still felt weird none the less. Sad part is I can't remember if I ended up working after that or going home to West Chester. All I know is her birthday weekend was over, and the only thing in my eyes keeping her from leaving me was her not having her car yet. At this point I wouldn't doubt she was already talking and planning on who she would want to date, but I still believed she had not yet done anything, call it dumb faith, or strong feelings/hope, either way I held on to it and wasn't going to let it go.

As many say, time would eventually tell all...

To be con't...

Special Selection - Thirsty

Daily Bread Video Reading - "The Circle of Fear"

Daily Reading - "Anxiety In The Heart Of Man Causes Depression, But A Good Word Makes It Glad." Proverbs 12:25 NKJV

Here is how it read today...

Thur June 4

"ANXIETY IN THE HEART OF MAN CAUSES DEPRESSION, BUT A GOOD WORD MAKES IT GLAD." (PROVERBS 12:25 NKJV)

Wait no longer, speak!

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Few things are as powerful as the right words spoken at the right time. By the same token, words withheld when their season of opportunity is gone, are a heavy burden to live with. Looking back, one relationship expert offers these moving words:

"I remember when I took your new car on the road and wrecked it. I thought you'd be livid and come down hard on me, but you didn't. I remember when we went to the beach and you didn't want to go because you said it was going to rain. We went and it rained. I was sure you'd rub it in and say, 'I told you so!' But you didn't. Then there was the time when I spilled blueberry juice down the front of your new white tux. I knew you'd be upset and blame me. But you didn't. And remember that formal evening? I was mistaken and told you it was casual. You wore blue jeans and felt like a fish out of water. I was sure you would storm out in anger and leave me standing there. But you didn't. I wanted to tell you how much I loved you and how much I appreciated you for all those things when you returned from Vietnam. But you didn't."

Solomon said, "There is...a time to speak" (Ecc 3:1&7). But it's a limited time, and when it's over it's gone. Don't spend your future regretting and carrying inside you the unspoken words someone needed to hear. "Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones" (Pr 16:24 NIV). Wait no longer, speak!

Daily Bread Video Reading - The Lord of Our Years

Daily Reading - "The Battle Is The Lord's." (1 Samuel 17:47 NKJV)

Here is how it read today...

Wed June 3

"THE BATTLE IS THE LORD'S." 1 SAMUEL 17:47 NKJV

How to defeat your giant

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One day a soldier, charged with fleeing from the enemy was brought before Alexander the Great. Alexander the Great asked him, "What's your name?" Dropping his head, he replied, "Alexander." Alexander the Great grabbed him by his shoulders and said, "Soldier, change your conduct or change your name!" You have been called to live a life worthy of the One whose name you carry. Regardless of whether the giant you face is addiction, resentment, fear, list, pride, envy or anger, you must realize:

(1) You're not unique. Your temptations "are no different from what others experience" (1Co 10:13 NLT). Goliath wasn't always a giant; he was fed and nurtured until he became one. Our giants are usually little sins we overlook and indulge until they assume a life of their own and come back to haunt us. (2) You can't do it alone. Your giant will defeat you anytime you tackle him in your own strength. David told Goliath, "This is the Lord's battle, and he will give you to us" (1Sa 17:47 NLT). You need divine help to overcome old habits and establish new behaviors. So, declare with Paul, "Christ...gives me strength" (Php 4:13 NLT). (3) You must confront your giant head-on. The Bible says: "As Goliath moved closer to attack, David quickly ran...to meet him" (1Sa 17:48 NLT). Don't run away, don't try to negotiate, don't compromise and don't excuse. Force your giant out into the light and don't let him back into your life. Establish boundaries and make yourself accountable. Stay out of the wrong company. Above all, don't look at God in the light of your giant, look at your giant in the light of God.

It Is What It Is/Where I'm At - 6/2

Daily Reading - "It Is I; Be Afraid Not." Mark 6:50

Here is how it read today...

Tues June 1

"IT IS I; BE NOT AFRAID" (MARK 6:50)

You'll get through this storm

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Are you in a storm today? Then read these words: "The boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land. Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by. And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out...But immediately He talked with them and said to them...'It is I; do not be afraid.' Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased" (Mk 6:47-51 NKJV). There are four lessons here for us:

(1) It's when we feel most separated from God, that He's teaching us the most. Dave Dravecky said, "Looking back...I have learned that the wilderness is part of the landscape of faith, and every but as essential as the mountaintop. On the mountaintop we are overwhelmed by God's presence. In the wilderness we are overwhelmed by His absence. Both places should bring us to our knees; the one, in utter awe, the other, in utter dependence." (2) God doesn't show up early. Usually He comes in the worst part of the storm when you think you can't take anymore - but He will always be on time. (3) God takes us through different storms, revealing more of Himself to us in each one. Otherwise there are aspects of His character, and divine strategies we'd never understand. (4) God's presence alone should be enough for us in any storm. The moment He shows up and says, "It is I," should retain our every fear.

Special Selection - "I Need You Now"

Special Selection - "The Battle Is Not Yours"

It Is What It Is/Where I'M At - 5/30

Special Selection - My Life Is In Your Hands

Dreams vol. 1 (5/2 - 5/20)

Special Selection - God Is Good

Happy Mother's Day

Special Selection - "Giants"

Special Selection - Heaven Knows

J.M.T. - "The Breakdown"

"No Battle, No Blessing"

Where I'm At/It Is What It Is 5-4-09

Sinner's Prayer

The Start of Something Big (con't)

So I eventually landed another asst manager position and would work both jobs at the same time. Now at this time I was still living with Rita but I always planned on getting into my own place by the end of the summer and I planned on being in West Chester for numerous reasons. So with working two jobs and still doing my own business stuff I eventually moved into a house with my right hand man and she wasn't a big fan of the move at all. It was now September and after working out the issue, things looked to be going great. Had two jobs where I was excelling and looking to eventually move forward in due time and my problems in my relationship appeared to work themselves out. I made sure I came back to her place on occasion and tried to do my part to make the long distance thing work. She didn't have a car so of course it was mostly on me seeing as how I was the one who choose to move away. So I did feel more responsible for making sure I was doing my part.

However things started to get sour shortly after our 1 year anniversary at the end of September. We went to AC, for a night and a day, I gave her a very nice promise ring to hopefully let her know that I truly appreciate her and am in this for the long haul. The short getaway was really nice. The thing is I've been in 2 relationship that lasted longer than 3 years so to me 1 year wasn't a big deal, but because it was her and due to her situation, I decided to make it a big deal. Well as I said, shortly after this getaway, things for whatever reason started to go downhill.

On our way back from AC my car was acting weird and would eventually be the starting sign of things to come. Later that week my car clunks out, transmission went. So now I ended up taking public transportation, which was something I thought I would never do again, but hey, you do what you gotta do right. The bad part about this was I just picked up another job a week before we went on our getaway. It was a simple third shift job just to bring in some more money. I'm a workaholic, and I had a game plan and I was working on it to the fullest. So with me now having my car it was hard for me to work all 3 jobs. Outside of that, I had Rita complaining more and more about a number of things. Going through what I was going through at the time could have easily drove a number of people crazy but I relished it as an opportunity to show people how to stay positive in such situations.

My 30-40 minute commute to work by car now turned into a 3 hour commute by bus. My 3rd shift job was literally walking distance from my house but due to my commute time to my other jobs I would eventually have to drop that job. It also took me 3 hours to get to Rita's place as well. Oh yea, she wasn't trying to hear any excuses about us not seeing each other due to me not having my car because, in here eyes, I shouldn't have moved so far away. So on random nights after work I would head to her place. Well some time in October I noticed things are just flat out different with our relationship and I say something about it. Turns out she talking about how we should take a step back and date other people. Of course I'm not trying to hear this, especially after I just spent money I didn't have on that ring to show her how serious I am about our relationship. This really caught me off guard and really pissed me off. She actually was somewhat serious about this and then had the audacity to say she still wanted me to come to her bday party and brunch. I was beside myself to say the least.

Here I am, basically working 12 hour days, out the house at like 6am back in the house at 12am 6 days a week, and now I got this on my plate. After talking about why she felt the way she felt, we came to a decision to try and make it work. Of course most of it once again was on me, but as I say, got to charge it to the game. So mind you I'm paying bills for a place in West Chester I'm continuously at her place trying to keep her happy. I'm still working 2 jobs but not working both as much as I once did due to my transportation issues. I honestly felt like things were crashing before my eyes and there was nothing I could do about it. So when that happens there really isn't any other option but to just pray. So I was heavy in prayer from that point on. Work had its stresses but I never let that get to me, but this relationship with Rita was constantly on my mind and would eventually bring me to a place I thought I would never be in.

To be con't...