She Knew The Way

I love my mother.
She’s a beautiful star in my night
A shining ray of sunlight.
She brought me up the way she thought I should go
Gave me to God and dedicated her soul
I love my mother
Although I only had five years with her,
I have come to know her as if she is with me each day
I’ve come to understand her choices
I’ve come to accept her leaving
Because I know that she knew which way I should go

When I ran away into the world,
I couldn’t let go of what she had taught me
When I sought after every possible moment of happiness
I couldn’t forget her joy
When I think about how her life was dedicated to a God and His church
I think about how I dedicate mine
And with all these thoughts
I know she loved me so,
Because she taught me the way I should go.

Today I live my life for this God
And I’m showing my son the same
So when my son thinks God is bigger than Batman
And stronger than Superman
I can’t help but say
This is all because I have a God who loves me so much
That He gave me a mother
Who knew the way I should go.

Ice Skating

Youth Alive went ice skating tonight for our monthly event. I don't think I have ever been so unbalanced on my feet and fallen so much since we began going ice skating. But...I have never had as much fun ice skating as I had tonight.

Just Another Night

Tonight's church service was off the hook. I was contemplating not going since I had been battling with a fever since Friday. I had thought for a moment that maybe I should rest and gain some energy. But it's always when you miss that the best services happen. It's a bummer to hear everyone else rant-&-rave about the service that you weren't at. Plus I had said to myself that if I miss one church service due to the illness I would finally go to the ER. There are various reasons why I didn't want to do that. So, I had Sis Terry pick me up and we were off. Good thing I didn't miss tonight's service because it would have been those "You missed a great service" nights. God moved in a mighty way. Because of the excitement of tonight's service (and because I found a rat in my broken trash can in my backyard and now it's currently hanging out in the trees in my front yard) I have found it hard to settle down. And just to think, tonight could have been just another night if I hadn't gone to church.

Not Until You Bless Me

“And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob's thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him. And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.” Genesis 32:24-26

I have asked God for His blessings in several different areas of my life. Some things are more urgent than others. Although I have not seen every prayer fulfilled, I will not let go until God blesses me. I believe that there are going to be trials where every bone will ache in your body, where every day seems to put you on wits end. There will be days were you think you will make it through without having to fight only to find out that the night has brought another story. There might be nights where sleep is hard to find, and there might be nights where all you can do is sleep. Through it all, it is imperative to hold on until you have victory. Do not let go until ye be blessed. As I’ve heard it said before, Just keep holdin’ on. Just keep holdin’ on.

Now and Later

"And he charged them, and said unto them, I am to be gathered unto my people, bury me with my fathers in the cave that is in the field of Ephron the Hittite,...There they buried Abraham and Sarah his wife; there they buried Isaac and Rebekah his wife, and there I buried Leah." Genesis 49: 29 & 31

As I was reading this passage, it dawned on me that Leah was blessed after her death. If you are not familiar with the story of Jacob, Jacob was in love with Leah's sister Rachel. He served 14 years in their father, Labon's house for Rachel, seven of those were required after Labon deceitfully gave Leah instead of Rachel. So Jacob was first married to Leah who blessed him with many children and then to Rachel whom after years of being baron was finally able to give Jacob two children.

Jacob sorely loved Rachel while Leah had to sit back and suffer the wounds of a woman unloved. All she wanted was for her man to love her like he did her sister. Leah even bribed her sister to let her have Jacob for one night with her [Leah]. Still, Jacob's love was unwavering.

Well, Rachel died in child birth and Leah's death was not mentioned except in the verse above. But, ultimately, Leah got her man. It was with her that he was buried. Although she was not alive to receive it, but her blessing came about after her death.

I believe we will all have blessings come to pass and prayers filled after our death. We don't live for the blessings to stop the moment we die, but we are building up an alter, sacrafices to God so that He may look down and bless continually. We sacrifice so that the blessings can be passed on, now and later.

Experience

When a guest walks into the church and feels excited about what they've experienced, then we have made a step toward remarkable. When they truly anticipate the next visit, then you know what they have experienced is memorable.

Anthony Had A Good Day

Anthony had a wonderful day in school today. He received three stars and stayed on green all day. He almost completed all of his work and his teacher said that although he needed more time he was working hard. Great job little man! I am proud of you.

Healed!

As I sit here and recover from my sickness, I reflect back on where I was a year ago. Do you know, last year I got sick 15 times. Each time required me to pay a $20 copay in addition to the cost of my medication. Often times, I walked away spending $100 per visit after the office visit and medication. When you get sick twice in one month, $100 is a lot. That is a lot period!

Last year I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, Osteopenia, Anemia, overactive thyriod, and after all these years I became allergic to penicilin. It seemed like almost everything I ate or touched gave me an allergic reaction. On top of this, I was told that I would need surgery for my cystic fibrosis. If you don't know what all this means, don't worry. All you need to know is that it is as bad as it sounds. As you can imagine, it was a tough year for Anthony and myself.

I sit hear tonight, beaten up by this sickness I have been battling but I am blessed because I already received a healing. I have not gone back for testing on any of these things except for the overactive thyroid, but I have been healed. Actually, I joke that I have been overhealed.

Fibromyalgia is when you have pain in your muscles. It also affects your thinking. There was a point in time last year when I didn't want to be touched because it hurt too bad. I didn't want to be prayed for because that would require for me to be touched which woud cause horrible shooting pain that would radiate through my entire body. I no longer have the pain and haven't had it for months. Fibromyalgia goes in cycles, but it has been over 6 months since I have had any pain. I am healed.

Osteopenia is a form of Osteoperosis. It is a lack of calcium in the bones. I was one point away from having Osteoperosis. Last year, by bones would hurt and it was hard for me to heal after the accident I had a year before. My bones no longer hurt. And trust me, you know when your bones hurt. It's worse than the pain in the muscles because there really isn't any medication that can help elivate the pain. I am healed.

Anemia is when you lack iron in your blood. I almost killed Granny, Anthony and myself last year because I passed out while driving and stopped in the middle of an intersection after church one night. The low iron level would make me dizzy and I would pass out just as quickly as you are reading this. Also, I got cold really easy. I never left without a jacket and always wore boots. I would get cold on a summer night. I could never sleep with a fan running or I would get sick. I believe God overhealed me on this one. I kid you not, but I get serious hot flashes. I am only 27. I should not be getting hot flashes. I can even ride in the same car as Sis Sabrina who must have the cold air going at all times since she is hot blooded. She even admitted I was healed on this one because I asked her to turn the air on the other day.

I can't remember the symptoms of the overactive thryoid and although I don't think I am allergic to penicillin, my doctor still won't give me penicillin (which is why this sickness won't go away). As far as the cystic fibrosis, I can't really explain but this one scared me more than the rest because it required surgery. Let's just say, I don't need surgery and I am normal again. Thank you Jesus.

Sometimes I need to remind myself of the miraculous healing that God has done in my life. Especially during a time like this when I am sick, it appears to be getting better although I am feeling worse in the process. God has healed me!!! Not just once, but in 7 different ways. Six were physical healings and the 7th was a spiritual healing. How could I not believe in God's healing power when I've only been sick 3 times this year!

That's My Business

"...Any church involved seriously in serving others must become risk takers. Spiritual risk is the healthy child of biblical faith. It is the day-to-day, responsible, obedient action of the Christian and the church motivated by the love and grace of God. That's our business as the church people of God. We honor God by having enough faith to take some risks in the process of investing in people...But the biggest losers are often those who fail to take any risk, for while they limit their potential for loss, they also have no chance to reap the rewards."
- Gary L. McIntosh, Beyond the First Welcome Visit

Why do we outreach?

Because that's our business as children of God

Why do we witness?

Because that's our business as children of God

Why do we push beyond the four walls of the church?

Because that's our business as children of God

Why do we push out of our comfort zones?

Because that's our business as children of God

We as church people of God have a responsibility to take risk in souls. IT'S OUR BUSINESS. It's our job and we are backed by an Almighty Employer that will supply us with the resources to complete our job, on time. We have a deadline. It's up to us to decide if we are willing to take the risk.

Recovery

I see the light at the end of the tunnel!!! I believe I am on my way to recovery from this sickness that I have had for over two weeks. This is my fourth day on antibiotics and at first I was worried because this morning was worse than yesterday. But my head doesn't feel like I have two freight trains slamming it from different directions. I can think!!! Yes! My cough, however, is not much better so I am praying that it will cease soon. The cough alone will me the death of me. Just Kidding. I am so happy about my head clearing that I had to blog my excitement.

He Gives Us Hope

Hebrews (Amplified)
18) This was so that, by two unchangeable things [His promise and His oath] in which it is impossible for God ever to prove false or deceive us, we who have fled [to Him] for refuge might have mighty indwelling strength and strong encouragement to grasp and hold fast the hope appointed for us and set before [us].
19) [Now] we have this [hope] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whoever steps out upon it--a hope] that reaches farther and enters into [the very certainty of the Presence] within the veil,

Guesterize You Church

"Guesterizing your church occurs when you make guests the most important people at your church on Sunday morning. It means responding to their needs in a manner that causes them to enjoy their time with you. It means giving superior service so that they want to move beyond the first visit" -Gary L. McIntosh, Beyond the First Visit

I am not a writer. I like numbers, figures, formulas, logic! I like to know there is an answer at the end of that problem, even if the answer is infinite. So, writing has never come easy to me. I'd rather talk than write. I read an email I wrote when I first started at my job and I couldn't believe how horrible it was. My grammar was atrocious. I started every sentence with "I will".

My boss on the other hand can spit something out in a heartbeat. Seeing how easy it was to her, I asked her if writing has always been her strong point. She said she took a class in college about technical business writing. She had learned in the class that we need to write in a form that our reader can understand. Duh! You would think that would be so easy, but read some of the emails I get at work (including my own) and you'd be amazed.

Well, dealing with our guest has the same logic. Make them feel welcome in a way they understand. Have you been guesterized?

Joy

"For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."

Psalm 30:5

1 Corinthian 6:19-20

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

A Word

If I may take this moment to have a word with you. It is almost 3:00 in the morning and I have been having personal time with God in prayer. I have tossed and turned all night after I went to bed sick, so I know there is a word that God wants me to share.

When I woke up in bed this morning, God told me to go pray. I pray in my front room which is why I had to "go" pray instead of get down and pray. Well, I didn't want to get out of bed. So I fought it. As I began to cover Anthony up (the nights are getting colder), Anthony in his sleep said "pray". Well if that is not a check in the spirit. So I have been praying.

In my time of prayer, God basically said to me to not worry when only a few people show up to prayer meeting. Think of this as a time for you to have better prayer. With more people there are distractions, when there are two or three you can get down to business.

God is not saying that unifed prayer with the whole church is not powerful, because it is. He is saying not to worry about others because He has a blessing for us and He is granting us the time in prayer with Him.

And the Fruit Tree Yields Fruit

“And God said let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth and it was so.” Genesis 1:11

“For every tree is known by his own fruit…” Luke 6:45


When I was growing up I had an apple tree and an orange tree. I can remember running around the fruit trees or waiting for the next fruit to fall. I remember thinking to myself that if only I could shake the tree the fruit would fall faster. I couldn't wait to see the fruit of that years yield.

My girlfriend has a lemon tree. I remember the first time that I went to pick some lemons and I pricked myself on the thorns. I had no clue that lemon trees had thorns. After she saw me cut myself up, she said one of the boys could get the lemons for me. I think she got a kick out of me looking so helpless. I know I did.

Either way, each tree had a fruit. Each tree yielded fruit of its own kind. I did not find apples on the lemon trees or lemons on the apple trees. The apples were on the apple tree and the apple tree yielded apples each year. The oranges were on the orange tree and that tree yielded oranges each year. The same goes for the lemons or any other fruit yielding tree.

The same also goes for people. Let’s say that the apple is a soul winner, the orange is a prayer warrior and the lemon tree is a gossiper. If each tree yields after is own kind, then the efforts of your yield will show in your harvest. The fruit of a soul winner will likely share the desire of the soul winner. It will have learned the importance of a fruitful yield after seeing year after year of sowing and reaping souls. The genetic make up of this person began with each outreach the parent took them on or each invite one friend saw another friend give. The importance of wining a soul was transcribed into their thinking with each yield. The prayer warrior began to genetically make up the fruit of their yield with each prayer, each moment of intercession, or each time they were seen on their knees crying out to God. Likewise, a gossiper was created with each new piece of gossip. Thorns were placed around the thoughts of that individual and a desire to prick or to hurt were yielded. Each fruit yields after its own kind.

We need fruits of all kinds because some fruit provides a powerful source that another may not contain. For example, a prayer warrior is most effective in prayer, but may not be as effective in giving a bible study. Or a soul winner feels most at ease when witnessing to someone on the street, but may not do as well in working the alter. Each fruit requires water and food to grow, and each fruit will provide you with some essential vitamins. But diversity brings strength and growth and a yield of different kinds. However, we must consciously yield the fruit of the Lord because the fruit of our efforts will yield a product that ends up looking like us.

Outreach

For those of you who do not know me well, I am terribly shy. I get really nervous when having to speak to people, but I make it a goal to do so. However, I will run wild if you let me loose to speak in front of a crowd. Crowds are less personable, therefore it is easier for me to mess up and move on rather than if I think I am going to be ridiculed in a small crowd (I know small crowds are not bad I just have a fear of small versus large). So on Direct Connect outreach today I was giving a card to a passerbyer and got nervous when the card got stuck. Eventually, after seconds of fumbling and messing things all up, I gave the card to the person. We looked at each other and laughed. He openly accepted the card.

Basically, I said all of that to say this. To be nervous is natural, no matter what end of the table you sit on, but don't let your nervousness turn into a fear that will hinder you from getting the job done. In the end, if may just be the mess you made that clears the path for someone else's salvation.

16% Rule

"Welcoming people is a never-ending process. Research completed in the late 1980s found that a church must keep about 16 percent of its first-time guests to experience a minimal growth rate of 5 percent a year...As an example, a church that wants to add fifty new members this year will need to have a minimum of three hundred guests attend its worship services during the year."

-Gary L. McIntosh, Beyond the First Visit

WOW! That was the 1980s. With all of the changes since then, wonder what the percent rule would be today? If you are not inviting guest, you better get on the ball. We need more than inviting...we need guest.

Going Against the Grain

For some reason, yesterday at work, the look of my nails began to bother me. So I pulled out my nail filer and began to manicure my nails. One side of the filer, files down the nail to shape it in the desired look. The other side smoothes the nail and gives it the finishing look. Today as I was in the car, I began to picture the nail filer and how it relates to spiritual growth. God, The Mega Nail Filer, goes against our grain to shape and mold, to file down the unnecessary and excess growth that only hinders our progress. He then takes this shaped product and applies the finishing touch.

Today praying in the car, God rebuked my thoughts. I thought I was doing something wrong, which is why things are not going right. It was almost like I was pleading with God to tell me what else I need to change in order to see progress. I couldn’t help but think that I was doing something wrong and that change would actually produce results. How totally wrong! Really fast, God shut those thoughts down. Change does produce results, but God showed me that you don’t have to be doing anything wrong when things stop going right. You could be in His perfect will and have everything stripped away (like Job in the Bible). But are you strong enough to withstand the fire? Are you strong enough to endure the period of filing?

When I was panicking because I thought I was doing something wrong, God was saying that progress is taking place. He is going against my grain, so that He can use me. In order to be used He must manicure me into the style that He fills is becoming on me. To look at this another way, He has taken me into the key store and is having me shaped into the key I need to be in order to unlock the door. The door is in front of me, but I cannot unlock the door if I, the Key, do not fit in the keyhole. Basically, God is making me into the person He has decided I need to be in order to reach out in the way He wants me to reach out. God has given us each different gifts. Where one excels at praying through at the altar, another stinks. Where one excels at witnessing to people on the street, another freezes up. My key does not always fit in another’s door and vice versa. My manicured style may not be a becoming style on another person’s hand, but it works for me.

But you know the wonderful thing about being filed down? Eventually we are finished. The rugged edges are smoothed out and eventually a well-manicured fingernail is presented or a perfectly fitted key is made and opens the door to progress. God is not always going against our grain even though this act will be repeated throughout our lives. Eventually, we are in the right size and shape and are just right for that time.

God is always in control and when we get out of control He will get out the filer and start filing down again. But we don’t have to be out of control when God decides to start filing. We may be in His perfect will when he decides to make a change in us. My desire is to be used of God, but how can he use me if I am out of shape? So, my prayer changed this morning. Instead of pleading with God to show me what I am doing wrong (which he did because my thoughts were all wrong) I began asking God to help me accept this change, to remain in His perfect will even when it goes against my grain, to bless my efforts with souls (because He will supply my needs), to strip away whatever is in my way and to shape me to fit where He wants me to fit. This is now my desire.

In A Haze

Bro McDaniel delivered another awesome message last night as our revival continued. He taught on revival and the steps required to have revival. In all my years in church (going on my five year anniversary next month) I have never felt revival so strongly as I have been feeling in the past couple of months. The "coincidental" is happening. This is what I call the “God just happened to…” time. As Bro McDaniel has been reminding us the last couple of nights, God cannot break His promise. “He just happened to” is God delivering on His promises. He said if we pray and fast He will provide. His presence is so powerful my worldly vision is blurred while my spiritual eyes are taking focus. There seems to be a haze when I walk around, but my thoughts are becoming so clear. I feel that God is trying to shift my focus from material things, worldly constraints, unnecessary burdens, etc. How else would I be able to do this if I cannot see or hear His will clearly?

Back-to-School Revival in the OC

Last night we had a Back-To School Revival service at out church. It was great. To see our church packed out with Saints from Fullerton, Colton and Moreno Valley, was a wonderful sight. Just to think, this is what it will look like every service when we ourselves begin to grow in numbers. I believe God is giving us a taste of what is yet to come.

DISTINGUISHED

I just came back from a Back to School revival service at Bro. David’s church in Colton. After an hour and 45 minute drive, I finally arrived there just in time for the preaching. The moment Bro McDaniel (the guest speaker for the service) began to preach I realized that there seems to be a centralized theme in all of the Back to School Rally’s I have been to in the past couple of weeks. The theme has been about taking the gospel to the whole world, reaching outside of the four walls of the church.

I went on the UPCI.org web site today and saw on the header “The Whole Gospel to the Whole World by the Whole Church”. Bro Rutledge who was down here from Alexandria, LA preached about getting out of the factory and into the delivery truck, sharing the Bread of Life with others. Bro McDaniel, who spoke tonight, talked about letting God in so that you can take God out to others.

As Bro McDaniel said tonight, the devil is okay with us containing The Word inside of the church. The devil is saying go ahead and live this life so long as we don’t share it with others. He wants us like a contained fire, under control, of little threat. But we should not be as a contained fire, but a wildfire, spreading the word. He is absolutely correct. The devil seeks to devour because his destiny is already determined. We need to devour that which seeks to devour us. Spread the Word. The more wild and out of control we become, the more threatened and defeated the devil is. Like Bro Rutledge said in his “Divine Rythm” sermon, the world has no pride, therefore we need not have pride when it comes down to sharing the Word with them.

As I was driving home tonight, the word “Distinguished” kept popping up in my head. A distinguished fire is not a fire, but a charred place that was once aflame. Has your fire gone out, has it been distinguished by the trial or maybe contained by the circumstances? Did you try to make a difference in another’s life or were you simply satisfied with the difference that was made in you. Are you distinguished or are you aflame???

What is There to Worry About?

"I believe God is managing affairs and the He doesn't need any advice from me. With God in charge, I believe that everything will work out for the best in the end. So what is there to worry about?" -Henry Ford

Love Languages of a Single Parent - Words of Affirmation

“While the world is crumbling and fear has paralyzed many hearts, let not fashion, materialism and superficial activity give false hope or take the place of that which is important, but let passionate prayers of repentance and intercession be uttered. It is imperative that people pray heaven-directed, earth-shaking prayers, so that we might be granted divine mercy and be delivered from the stagnation of apathy, while our generation trudges blindly into the blackness of violence and hell.” – Joy Haney

You might be wondering how this quotation and the love language of words of affirmation have a connection. Trust me, this was not what I had intended to write. I got stuck and couldn’t figure out what to say. When I read this in her book “Healing Power of Prayer” I immediately knew what I wanted to say in this blog.

Prayer is the most priceless gift and affirmation of love you can give. Words are spoken and delivered to the Almighty One who in turn works His ways. We need to hear the words I love you, but there is no greater affirmation than to hear the words, I am praying for you. You ask how does prayer say I love you? Simple.

• Can you pray about someone you dislike? Yes, but would it be genuine. And even then, would you tell them I am praying for you or would you simply ignore them as you probably have already been doing.
• Prayer shapes the heart: As I stated above, you can’t genuinely pray for someone you dislike. Even if you disliked them at one point, if you continue to pray for them, the insincerity turns into genuine compassion and concern. What use to be out of routine begins to happen out of love and caring.
• Your fervent prayers allows God to enter onto the scene: Prayer is the channel of connectivity from God to you and you to God. If you are fervently praying, you have opened up the gate for God to come in, and created the opportunity for you to live Christ-like. When your life mirrors the will of God, then you are able to forgive when its hard to forget, to give even if you don’t receive, to love when you don’t feel loved and much more. You learn to love unconditionally.
• Prayer helps you to be positive: If you pray shallow prayers, your words will likewise be shallow. The matters of the heart will reveal themselves through prayer. Praying for miracles, praying for blessings, and praying for the miraculous requires faith. Faith is the offspring of positive thinking, believing it can happen. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1).
• Prayer helps you to see the strengths and not the weaknesses of an individual: We want to pray for the strengthening of a person’s weakness, but you wouldn’t be praying for them if you didn’t see their strengths. When you focus on a person’s weaknesses, you begin to develop sinful thoughts. You nit-pick at this and that while neglecting to see what they bring in your life. Prayer helps you to focus on the blessing they have become instead of the nuisance you thought they were. It helps you to see what they can become instead of what they were.

Prayer is the first step and the most important. The second is to live with thankfulness in your heart. When you are thankful and “prayed up” it is easier for you to give without demeaning. What do I mean by that? Too often we conditionally love people. “I love you but…” you fill in the blank. “That was great but…” If you were to sit and think about how often we hear and say such things, you’d be surprised. The recipient of such love would begin to wonder if they ever do anything right, it they are ever good enough, or if they are even loved. Stop! Stop! Stop! No more “buts” when you dish out an “I love you” or a compliment. Just do it. Just give the compliment. Just say I love you and no more. Constant correction equates to conditional love.

As a single parent, how does this affect us? We heavily rely on our friends and family to fill in the gaps that may not be filled to often. Additionally, we heavily reply on God to keep us balanced. When we lay down at might and begin to reflect on the day, He is our companion. When our feelings get hurt, He is the objective thinker when we take things out of proportion. When we feel ugly He’s the one showing us that we are beautiful. And just think about it, He might have used you to show it. Thank you for that compliment on how I looked today. Thank you for saying I love you. It’s okay to say, I’m praying for you. Thank you, we need it.

Love Languages of a Single Parent - Physical Touch

Physical touch is a language that crosses all colors, any language, any race, ethnicity or culture. A quick embrace can say I love you, or a pat on the back can say “good job”. The language of physical touch is powerful which is why the amount that we do or don’t touch can make or break relationships.

So in the middle of my reading, I began to think about the relation of single parents and physical touch. How does a single parent who is living for God give and receive physical touch without crossing the boundaries of the flesh and enter into lustful temptations? As a single parent, will I ever be able to fill my emotional tank from someone other than my child? Will that need ever be able to be fulfilled while I wait for matrimonial bliss, if this is the path that I will eventually take? I have at times wondered, do the wedded or never married understand the physical trials we [single parents] face?

Yes, yes, yes! Though at times things seem out of sorts and unfulfilling, there is a way. I have thought on this, battled with this, and finally relinquished the burden of it to God. For you who speak the language of physical touch, you too can fill your emotional tank. Here is how.

For the Singles/Never Married/Once Married/etc:
This may sound unrealistic, but in all reality the first place you need to look to is God and not to man. GOD IS OMNIPRESENT. He is there when you need Him. You need a hug, ask Him. You need physical comforting, ask Him. I’m not playing. Yes, He is a spirit, but He also once came down and manifested Himself into man. He fully understands the needs of physical touch. He experienced the beauty of a mother’s touch, or a father’s pat on the back. He knows about the bedtime stories and cuddling. Outside of the parental touch, I’m sure He at one point was tempted by flesh. The bible says that Jesus was not appealing to the eyes, but I bet that some woman found him appealing. Really, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, attraction does not always stem from looks, but from power, authority and a demanding appeal. He had all of those, even to the unbeliever. He never sinned, you never hear about His disciples dealing with lust. They focused on God and the kingdom of heaven, instead of the advances of women. That’s what we must do even when it seems impossible, Keep Your Eyes on God. By staying focused your physical desires can be fulfilled through the Spirit.

Have you ever been praying and felt a strong presence of the Lord? It’s almost
like someone is right there with you. I have. There have been several times when
I have been praying and I feel the warmth of loving arms surrounding me. It is
so real, I have opened my eyes expecting to see someone only to see nothing.
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, evidence of things not seen (Hebrews
11:1). I could not see Him by sight, but I could feel him by faith. It was at
these moments my battles were won. He touched me, I know he touched me, and oh
the joy that floods my soul.

God understands what we need and when we need it. He knew that I needed a hug and not a pat on the back. He knew I needed to feel secure and only the language of physical touch could provide that sense of security and love that I was seeking. He knows and He can provide. So, ask Him and see what He can do for you.

For the fellow church family:
You are awesome. You know why? Because we pray together. Do you know that we are filling love tanks when we pray together? Ladies, when we join together as one or even just jointly pray we are communicating love through the language of physical touch? I can’t say how many times, I was going through the “unloved” stage of being single and really wanting just a hug, when one of you would come put your arms around me and pray with me. All I wanted was affirmation and you provided it through the simple act of prayer. You were an answer to prayer. This is one thing that made me fall in love with this church as well as Pentecost. The friendliness, the sensitivity to the needs of others is evident daily. Sometimes a hug or a touch to the arm are the only words that need to be spoken. So, when you see someone praying alone, unite with them, because you are not only unifying in the spirit, but are providing love, through an unspoken language that can speak louder than words.

Crossing Boundaries:
As for crossing boundaries, all I can say is, if you live in the flesh, you will cross boundaries. If you live with the Spirit in you, the issue of flesh will seem like an anthill and not a mountain. Flesh should not have dominion over you, and if it does then the Spirit cannot. This is not easy when we are surrounded by flesh and lots of it pretty much everywhere we go. This country particularly lives by the “Sex sells” philosophy. Its pretty sad when restaurants think the only way to sell a burger is by putting a woman in a bikini in the advertisement. They know that what appeals to the eyes will ignite physical desires whether this is eating a burger or drinking a soda. So don’t let your flesh have control over you, but keep control of your flesh and you will remain within the physical boundaries and be able to benefit from the language of physical touch.

Ultimately, my need for physical touch has been fulfilled. I still battle with the “unloved” stage every now and then. Those are the times when I am giving more hugs, because I want some in return. Those are the times, I go pray with others even more because my temptations are being conquered by giving to others what I want done to me. Do unto others as you wish them to do unto you. Sometimes you have to give in order to receive. Its okay to have needs, we are human, but sometimes you have to let others know what your need are so that they don’t waste time in trying to guess and possibly miss your hints all together.

Stay tuned for more on
the Love Languages of a
Single Parent...

The Love Language of a Single Parent - Introduction

I have been reading The Five Love Languages of Children, a book written by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell. The book is exactly about the what the title says, the love languages of children. I have to say that it is an exceptional read, especially for those parents who have no idea what happened to that once loveable, outgoing child.

I think as parents we often don't realize what changes our children go through and how sensitive they are to their surroundings and anything that threatens to alter it. We equate everything to the "phase" that they are going through, when it might simply be a cry out for love.

So, this got me to thinking...I as an adult have often cried out, even when I didn't realize that I was doing it. I too have gone through phases, my most memorable being postpartem depression, but there are things that I battle with still today. If I was to examine my love language I would have to say that at that time, my tank is not quite full. But I know where I can fill up.

So, starting tomorrow, I will begin my 5-day blog on the five love languages of a young single parent (Since I am one). Each day I will examine one love language and discuss what a single parent might think when the tank is empty and when the tank is full. Tomorrow, I will begin with the language of physical touch.

Stay tunned for more....

Six Foot and Proud

Today, I wore flat shoes, which is a rarity for me. Though I stand 6’ tall, I love to wear heels and have no quarrels about it at all. I realized that I must be "giganta" woman when I am in my heels because today I wasn’t towering over my coworkers as I normally do. So when I received numerous stares and comments on not wearing heels I instantly thought to an article that I read in Shape Magazine. It was nothing big, but just some quotes on things that have made people feel good. One woman was tall and made the comment that although she towers at 6’1", she loves to wear heels to show the world what an "amazon" women she is. This made me laugh because I do notice that when I get off the platform from praise singing that my microphone normally stands a foot higher than all the rest. I don’t dress this way for attention, I purely do it because I love heels and feel bare without them. God made me tall, and I will love every inch because that’s what He wanted me to be. God made us in the form he liked best for us, don’t try to be something that you are not, but love what you are.

"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." (Genesis 1:27)

What Have You Done for Me Lately?

I can only classify yesterday as "Unforgettable". The title that I have used came to mind during the morning preaching. Pastor Pryor taught on commitment. It was one of those sermons where the finger is not pointed at you but you couldn’t help but feel like it was directly meant for you. I know I am not the only one, which is why I can freely say this, but the sermon was one of those were you can hardly breathe because you know in some way that you have not followed through, you have not committed where you should have.

I couldn’t help but think how uncommitted this world really is. I know there is war going on between religious sects across the seas and we think it is ridiculous to be so committed to the point where you are blinded from any sanity and reasoning. Well I give those religious sects one thing, they are committed to their cause, no matter how silly we think that cause might be.

It made me think, are we as Americans laughing so hard because of our own fear of commitment? The average time for someone to be in one job is 2 years. I know from experience that when I went to work for my current company, it amazed me to find people who had been working here for more than two years. I was so use to people just getting up and going when they no longer liked it. The employers as well. We see lay-off after lay-off only for the position to be reopened after one year. Do they or do they not need the help?

The divorce rate has gone up, kids are even divorcing their parents. The percentage of single parents has increased, not just from divorced situations, but for kids born out of wedlock. Children are wanted, just not when a marriage is involved. Where is the commitment?

I am definitely guilty for having commitment issues. Because as I was hearing the sermon, the phrase "what have you done for me lately" just kept going through my head. Then I began to see "what have I done for you lately". Commitment is so difficult these days because we are so consumed with the "what have you done for me" attitude and not enough of the "what can I do for you" mentality. Humbleness is a thing of the past, and when you are humble it seen as a sign of weakness. But is it really weakness? No, it is purely humbleness, a likeness of Jesus.

To continue back on yesterday, this awesome sermon was then followed by the powerful testimony by my youth leaders, Frank & Sabrina Peavey, who God has blessed over and over and whom God uses to show us that we too can be blessed. I have received a blessing just watching them over the years. Followed by this testimony was a powerful (I can’t think of the word)…piece (I guess this is the best word) of a 9-year old girl praying. I had seen this before, but God specifically orchestrated the Peavey’s blessing to occur before this Edge service. It made the service even more powerful. You can’t see this video without tearing up and feeling outdone by a 9-year old. As Bro Frank said it in his sermon, I don’t know many adults to even pray like that.

So from all of this I just want to say:

• God, you never fail to make each day better than the last. You are awesome and worthy of every single praise.
  
• Pastor Pryor, your sermon was excellent. The evangelist in you began peeking through and cut right to business. I needed that more than I even realized.
  
• Bro Frank and Sis Sabrina, You Go Guys! You opened up your home to be used by God’s people and God decided it was time to get you a new one (so to speak). The way I see it, this calls for another house warming. AMEN!
  

Sky High

During my time in Seattle, I had the pleasure of eating at the Space Needle. If you haven't been to Seattle, the Space Needle is basically their landmark (other than rain) and stands over 600 feet above ground. At the top of the needle sits the dinning room which makes a 360 degree rotation about every hour. It's amazing. I love heights, there is something about being above it all that gives me a thrill. Though you cannot always live at the top, there are moments when we can be on top of the clouds and just enjoy being sky high.

Alaska

Just came back from my Alaskan cruise and must say that it was refreshing and "a sight for sore eyes". There is nothing like being able to while watch whales while savoring the sweet taste of their ocean buddies, the salmon and escargot. Who would of thought that ocean life could be so fun.

I must also say that all the hype is true. There is nothing like the experience of Alaska. Yes, here you can fall in love with God over and over again. No, it doesn’t make me want to move there, but it surely puts something in prospective. God! How can people deny God when an ocean so grand surrounds you for miles and miles? How can they say there is no God when you are looking into a glacier with a color so blue no Crayola crayon could ever match it? How can they say He is not there when you are flying through hurricanes and your head feels like it is spinning 100 mph but you can still wake up in the morning in tack and with a sound mind? No wonder they aren’t happy. They’ve never been to Alaska.

The "Inner" Circle

Since I was young, I’ve never be able to easily meet people. I was a shy girl and still am to a degree. In some ways I have adjusted because you simply cannot enjoy life sheltered away from people and seclusion is very unhealthy. Secluded is exactly what I would be if I was to keep on the track I was going when I was younger. In high school I purposely avoided hanging out with my older sister because she was in the "in crowd". I couldn’t stand all of the attention so I never entered into their "Inner" circle and they never entered into mine.

What a world of difference aging can make. It is unreasonable to avoid people simply because of personality difference or because of a character flaw of our own making. The "inner" circle is no fun when there is no one in it but you. God surely doesn’t share his circle with Himself, but he has accepted so many different people into His "inner" courts. Yes, we have those that we simply get along with, but we should still be able to hang out with others. It simply means that you have no inner circle, but you have close friends.

So, when someone new steps into church or into the office, befriend them. They are the freshmen in this school of learning. They need the acceptance and belonging not seclusion. Break down the walls and put out the welcome sign "Join us Friend."

It's Contagious

Don’t you just love Monday’s. No, it’s not because I get to end my short-lived weekend or because I just love the stress of work life, but it’s almost like another opportunity to start over. We have the opportunity to correct what might have been wrong the past week or we might simply be one step closer to that "thing" we’ve been waiting for.

At work today, there was such an excitement in the air. It all began with one person sharing in the blessings of another and so forth. Celebrations taking place for nothing of significance, but for something that was made to be exciting. A positive productive atmosphere was created from the exciting power of laughter! It’s contagious and something worth catching.

Refresh

Okay, I was cruising on the information highway looking for something in particular (can’t remember what I was looking for because this happened more than once) when all of a sudden the screen pauses. Bam! All I get are fragments of a page. I’m road blocked from reaching my destination. So what do I do? I hit refresh. I don’t want to go backwards, but I want to renew or revive the image on that present screen. Sometimes, don’t you just feel like hitting the refresh button in your life? You don’t want to start over or even go backwards, you just want a little reviving in your spirit. You just need to fill up again and keep going. I know I do. So this is what I’m going to do. I’m going to take a pause in this display screen called life, put down the phone, jump off the computer and take a moment to just REFRESH. Talk to ya tomorrow. Good Night.

Tip of The Week

Learn something new everyday.

Today I learned about Boanerges. I came across this during my internet reading. See Robbymac.org. According to Dictionary.com this means sons of thunder, a surname given by our Lord to James and John (Mark 3:17) on account of their fervid and impetuous temper (Luke 9:54). Prior to their spiritual maturity, James and John could be known as Boanerges. We definitely do not remember them as such.

It’s wonderful how God’s presence in a person’s life can be so evident in their character. As a teenager, I was once classified as "The Black Heart." I was brutally honest and at times (well many times) just flat out cold hearted. I can’t say that I am not brutally honest at times in my adult life, but I am definitely not known for it any longer. I have people asking me if I ever get angry. Now, they obviously do not spend much time with me because I still have to work out some of that road rage (all part of living in California), but there has been a change since I’ve allowed God to step into my life and take control.

As Robbymac put it, "What kind of a man [woman] do I want to be known as? Boanerges or the apostle of love?"

Soul Searching is Relevant to Spreading The Gospel

"There is a difference between making the Gospel relevant, and trying to make it suitable to culture. Relevant means that we discard the baggage that we have attached to the Gospel--such as theological jargon--so that our message can be better understood. Suitable is when we try to make the Gospel another positive thinking, get rich scheme which has all too often been the case with many North American churches."

I read this on Brian Leport's blog and it immediately struck out at me. He was summarizing an interview with Donald Miller who speaks on "hip" the Gospel. This instantly caught my eye because it is something that has constantly been on my mind. How do I capture the young adult crowd without them thinking I have lost touch with the times? How do I show them that what mom and pops believed actually works for us without being seen as an "old woman"? With my more serious nature, how can I show them that I have way more fun now than I ever did before, and its not because I’m serious but because it is simply enjoyable?

First of all, it took and is still taking some soul searching. I am always considered the older sibling when I hang out with my older sister. I can’t stand that. So, obviously there is something I needed to adjust in my life that would break me out of this old hag phase and back into the times when I could be the younger sister. This required and still requires much work, but the change is awesome. It is also an outreach tool for younger crowds. I am one of them and not an outsider.

Secondly, I am learning how to bring The Word to them in relevant terms. For instance, I would not go speak in my 5-year old son’s classroom using the vocabulary I would use at work. This is the age when story time is peak hour and animation will make you their best friend. Even a walk to the store can be a fun filled story when I bring it to their terms. So relevance is right on point, when spreading the Gospel. You have to think about who you are talking to, where you are, how you met them, etc. Analyze before you react. This way you can become proactive instead of dreadfully reactive.

I know there are many more points to touch on, but these are the two I have been working hard to develop. To reach a certain audience takes research and dedication. It takes adjustment where necessary and complete change when something is completely broken. It is not easy to evaluate yourself so seek the advice of others. I think my friends have been wondering about me because of all the questions I am asking about myself. Someone has even asked if I have been reading those self help books. I laugh because I believe this is self help that is relevant to spreading The Gospel. My way of discarding the baggage that has made my approach irrelevant. It took soul searching, soul breaking and soul shaping in order to begin in the direction I am seeking and what I believe God has given to me.

Where Did God's Burden Go?

Where did God’s burden go?
Was it devoured up by the beastly appetite of lust and deceit?
Did it fall on the stony hills of rejection and defeat?
Did it wither away with the scorching rays of pride and neglect?
Or did it get blown away by a disease with a simple name called “Forget”?

Did it get cast down or put aside, and forgotten as the days went by?
Did it drown in the depths of selfishness?
Or was it lost in the pits of self-righteousness?
It can’t simply be left and expected to progress.
Because it’s life and it is required to be fed.

So as you sit, take the moment to reflect
Do you know, where did God’s burden go?


God gave us the ability to give. To give in prayer, in fasting to give when we may never receive, to give our best when we don’t want to. Fortunately, God gave us a burden. When I have a burden for someone or something, I find that my prayers are more fervent, my desire is increased and my faith strengthened. It’s the burden that magnifies my belief when we’re against all odds. It’s that burden that keeps me going when my body is weak or my mind is tired. It’s the burden that puts me on my knees in prayer when my body aches. It’s the same burden that heals the weak and mends the broken. It’s the same burden that picks me up when the day drags on. It’s the burden of a mother for her child, the child for a parent, a house for a family, a friend for a friend. It’s the same burden that brought me into church, the cleansed my soul and granted me forgiveness when I was unworthy. It’s the burden that directs souls to a loving God. It’s God’s burden living in us all and fed by prayer.

Mother's Day

Ruth 1:16
And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God

As a single Mother, Mother’s Day normally leans more towards an average day. Since my son is young and still very dependent upon me, any events planned are planned by me. This Mother’s Day, I have been truly blessed with a wonderful eventful weekend. As Sister Terry has said, I’ve been emotional this weekend. The reason is because I realized, that although I have gone many Mother’s Day without a mother, I have the opportunity to make each Mother’s Day special with my son and adopted “niece and nephew”. These years are my second chance to give what I didn’t have and I thank God for such a blessing.

To all of the single mothers and all of the women who have lost their mother’s, I wish you a wonderful Mother’s Day.

To all of the women who have taken the time to teach me and guide me and love me, I love you and hope your day was even more blessed than mine.

To Sister Pryor, Happy First Mother’s Day in Orange County. Anthony and I appreciate you and love you.

Speechless

"Occasionally in life there are those moments of unutterable fulfillment which cannot be completely explained by those symbols called words. Their meanings can only be articulated by the inaudible language of the heart." -Martin Luther King

Miracle Living

There are two ways to live your life.
One is as though nothing is a miracle.
The other is as though everything is a miracle.
-Albert Einstein

Do you think this is Reality thinking vs. Dreaming or Optimism vs. Pessimism?
We don’t have to give up dreaming to accomplish what is reality, but you do have to stay optimistic to accomplish a dream. You must see the vision before you can live it and you must believe it in order to achieve it. I don’t konw anyone that said it could never happen and then went out and made it happen. I do know many people who dreamed a vision, remained optimistic when reality said it wasn’t permissible, and accomplished the dream. With God everything is possible even when it is humanly impossible. Just remember that He is the Miracle Worker and everyday we live a miracle.

I'm Off

I’m off to my piano lessons today. The lessons have become more regular now, which is always a plus. Today, I am really excited about my lessons because I have a new song that I would like to learn for our next Edge service. I already have some songs lined up, but piano is always more exciting when there is a new song to be learned. Kind of reminds me of faith, its usually more exciting when you learn something new. Practicing the fundamentals can become repetitive, but
it is refreshing when this dedication and commitment allows me to build upon my faith by freeing up time to learn something new and exciting.

Bringing Home The Church

I read something interesting today about spiritual disconnectedness. In "Are We Too Disconnected" the following was written:

"About half or more than half of the believers DO NOT attend a church service on Sunday." The fact is, the majority of these people are probably not connecting with what we might call a consistent spiritual community…Their most significant communal rhythms happen through a number of separate events and occasions in homes, coffee shops, clubs, festivals, etc. And in the past 7 years, the internet has become another of those places where spiritual gifts are shared and the accountability of relationship is maintained despite physical distance."

Though I am not in agreement with everything that is said in this blog, because God gave us a pastor after his own heart (Jeremiah 3:15), I do agree that there is a steadily increasing stream of disconnection taking place. In our efforts to adapt to change we have provided a very easy way for people to adapt in church without physically being in a church. We have brought church home with us, and many decided to keep it there.

Yes, we need to be able to find God even in our homes, in the coffeehouses or on the internet. However, I the intentions were never to replace the church house, but to allow a way for people to be connected when there was no other way. It was more of a ‘if they can’t come to us, then we’ll come to them’ approach. It was not intended as an option, but as the last resort.

Consequently, we have developed "Personal Christianity". Today is the "feel good" era. If it doesn’t feel right, then don’t do it. That mentality has seeped its way into the Christian hearts and convoluted the purpose of God’s joy. God gave laws, he reprimanded when they were broken and rewarded when they were kept. Man did not make them, but God did. Today we dangerously titer-tot on the fine line of God’s ways and our ways, His church or ours. Most of the time we sit and hang out on the "Our Ways" side without ever finding our way to His side. Ultimately, this has made the church into the enemy instead of the ally. God never intended for man to be alone, physically or spiritually. He would have never created Eve if this were the case. He would have created unreproductable creatures that would die on the very same lot on which they were created.

We all need church. It’s not the building that is important, but the spiritual support as well as the physical support. However, we must continue with global outreach in order to provide the support to those who are unable to find it elsewhere. I don’t care if church is held outside or in, but I do care for its presence and the fact that it is serving the purpose for which God intended: a founding structure, a support haven, a house of refuge, a house of joy, a house of learning, and a house of growth. It’s The House of God.

Awesome are Your Ways

Lord, awesome are your ways. You knew Lord what I needed to hear. When I asked I did received. To think that just a few words could be the blessing I was looking for. You used one person's weakness and anothers strength to create an equilibrium; the balance of a world that was unevenly shaped. You are awesome.

Amen

This Isn't the End, This is Only The Beginning

A blessing from the Lord is here! In the last two weeks we have experienced wonderful services. We have been able to participate in the Azusa Street Centennial Services. My home church has continued with the spirit of revival and has been blessed with a wonderful move of God. We've been on the move, God has been on the move, and it has been such a blessing. After all is said and done, our momentum continues even though we physically begin to decelerate. This is not the end of revival, this is only the beginning. Hallelujah!

Hope

"Hope…, unlike optimism, is independent of people's circumstances. Hope is not based on the possibilities of the situation and on correct extropolation about the future. Hope is grounded in the faithfulness of God and therefore on the effectiveness of God's promise...it is the future that comes not from the realm of what is or what was, but from the realm of what is not yet...Optimism is based on the possibilities of things as they have come to be; hope is based on the possibilities of God irrespective of how things are. Hope can spring up even in the valley of the shadow of death; indeed, it is there that it becomes truly manifest." - Miroslav Volf

Praise Ye the Lord

Psalms 150
1Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power.
2Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness.
3Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp.
4Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs.
5Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals.
6Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.

A Soldier In God's Army

I sang a song not too long ago that I heard from our ladies conference about not letting the devil drive with you. The speaker noted that when she was a little girl, her mother never allowed her to hate anything. My father was the same way. "Hate" was too strong a word so I could say that I disliked something, but never "hate". But there is one thing we can hate, that’s the devil. I’ve come to realize that if I don’t hate him, then I must in some way support him. Since I can never trust him, than why should I stand on his side. I cannot seem to shake this image, but I keep thinking about how the devil hates me because I live for God. Every time I give thanks to God, I imagine a black eye to the devil. Every time I give praise or worship to God, I imagine a kick to the shin. Every time I tell the Lord how much I love him, I can imagine the heart attack that the devil receives when he hears me (that’s right, the devil doesn’t have a heart). Basically, if I am not against the devil, then I am for him. His fate is already decided. In Luke 10:18 it says "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven." His fate is already decided, there is no way I will let him decide mine too. I will keep fighting with praise, with prayer, with worship and most importantly through God. I will keep spreading the word and testifying of God’s goodness. God will win every time.

Thinking on the Positive

I’m a morning person. When I wake up, my mind automatically begins to shift into gear. At night, I am quite opposite. My mind begins to hibernate. I am easily distracted unless I totally submerge myself in a calm quiet environment. Over the last couple of years I have learned to adapt because my son is quite opposite of me. He is groggy in the morning and totally awake at night. So one thing I have learned to do is to think in the morning, ponder on those thoughts throughout the day and wrap everything up at night. I have cycled my thinking process so that I give myself my best work environment when I am at my best.

This is why it is important that I begin the introduction to and conclude my day with positive thoughts. What I do in the morning and at night influence my thoughts and actions throughout the day. If I end my day with negative thoughts, I wake up with them. If I start my day with negative thoughts, my behavior will be reflective of those thoughts throughout my day. So it is important that I keep thinking on the positive because influences and consequences of negativity is just not worth it.

Don't Consult the Experts, Consult The Expert

"If you want to achieve something, give yourself permission to believe it is possible-no matter what experts might say." – John C. Maxwell

"Never tell a young person that something cannot be done. God may have been waiting centuries for somebody ignorant enough of the impossible to do that thing." – John Andrew Holmes


Azusa Street 1906:

The experts said it was nothing of importance. The experts said it wasn’t even worth mentioning.

"We made no mention of the matter in the Messenger, not deeming it of sufficient importance to demand attention from outsiders…Locally it is of small account, being insignificant both in numbers and influence. Instead of being the greatest movement of the times…it is of small moment. It has had, and has now, upon the religious life of the city, about as much influence as a pebble thrown into the sea." – Nazarene Messenger, December 13, 1906

They made it out to be like a beast in the night.

"Night is made hideous in the neighborhood by the howlings of the worshippers who spend hours swaying forth and back in a nerve-racking attitude of prayer and supplication." – Los Angeles Times, April 18, 1906

The "ignorant" ones believed.

"The meetings in Los Angeles started in a cottage meeting, and the Pentecost fell there three nights. The People had nothing to do but wait on the Lord and praise Him… Many churches have been praying for Pentecost…" - Azusa Street Mission Newspaper, September 1906

And The Expert said well done!

"The great Shekina glory is still resting upon us as a pillar of fire by night and a pillar of cloud by day, where hundreds and thousands of souls have come and been blest through the mighty power of our blessed Lord. Hungry and thirsty souls are coming from hundreds and thousands of miles to get their personal Pentecost, and receiving and taking the glad tidings back home to hungry and thirsty souls that are waiting their arrival." – Azusa Street Mission Newspaper, December 1906

"Waves of Pentecostal salvation are still rolling in at Azusa Street Mission. From morning till late at night the meetings continue with about three alter services a day…The fire is spreading." – Azusa Street Mission Newspaper, October, 1906

And the fire still falls!
2006

"Azusa Street was the seminal revival of modern Pentecostalism." – www.firestillfalls.com

"Prominent theologians consider Azusa Street ‘the birthplace of the modern Pentecostal movement,’ " –www.christianpost.com

"Pentecostalism has earlier roots, but the Azusa Street Revival launched it as a worldwide movement." – www.wikipedia.org

Who will you believe?

The Days of Pentecost

The Day of Pentecost

“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4)


The Days of Pentecost, 1906

“GOOD NEWS SPREADS.
People from all over the country are sending in letters of inquiry, having heard that Pentecost has come to Los Angeles. Some have come long distances and report that the half had not been told them. Through this paper we answer inquiries, as it would be impossible to write to each. Souls are hungry all over the land.”

Reports of the Spirit Moving
“The power of God now has this city agitated as never before. Pentecost has surely come and with it the Bible evidences are following, many being converted and sanctified and filled with the Holy Ghost, speaking in tongues as they did on the day of Pentecost. The scenes that are daily enacted in the building on Azusa street and at Missions and Churches in other parts of the city are beyond description, and the real revival has only started, as God has been working with His children mostly, getting them through to Pentecost, and laying the foundation for a mighty wave of salvation among the unconverted.”

Reports of Healing
“Many have laid aside their glasses and had their eye sight perfectly restored. The deaf have had their hearing restored.”

“A man was healed of asthma of twenty years standing. Many have been healed of heart trouble and lung trouble.”

“Canes, crutches, medicine bottles, and glasses are being thrown aside as God heals. That is the safe way. No need to keep an old crutch or medicine bottle of any kind around after God heals you. Some, in keeping some such appliance as a souvenir, have been tempted to use them again and have lost their healing.”

Reports of Deliverance
“A brother who had been a spiritualist medium and who was so possessed with demons that he had no rest, and was on the point of committing suicide, was instantly delivered of demon power. He then sought God for the pardon of his sins and sanctification, and is now filled with a different spirit.”

Reports of the Holy Ghost Infilling
“About 160 people in Los Angeles, more than on the day of Pentecost, have received the gift of the Holy Ghost and the Bible evidence, the gift of tongues, and many have been saved and sanctified, nobody knows how many. People are seeking at the altar three times a day and it is hard to close at night on account of seekers and those who are under the power of God.”

“In about an hour and a half, a young man was converted, sanctified,and baptized with the Holy Ghost, and spoke with tongues. He was also healed from consumption, so that when he visited the doctor he pronounced his lungs sound. He has received many tongues, also the gift of prophecy, and writing in a number of foreign languages, and has a call to a foreign field.”

“Bro. Campbell, a Nazarene brother, 83 years of age, who had been for 53 years serving the Lord, received the baptism with the Holy Ghost and gift of tongues in his own home. His son, who was a physician, was called and came to see if he was sick, but found him only happy in the Lord. Not only old men and old women, but, boys and girls, are receiving their Pentecost. Viola Price, a little orphan colored girl eight years of age, has received the gift of tongues.”


The Day of Pentecost 2006

It’s time for another break through!

"Opportunity once passed,” said Frank Bartleman, “is lost forever. There is a time when the tide is sweeping by our door. We may plunge in and be carried to glorious success and blessing and victory. To stand on the bank shivering from timidity, or paralyzed by stupor at such a time is to miss all, and most miserably and eternally fail. Oh, our responsibility! The mighty tide of God's grace and favor even now is sweeping by us, in its prayer directed course." -Frank Bartleman


The above quotes were taken from the September 1906 issue of the “The Apostolic Faith Movement“ found on www.sendrevival.com.

Believe

“People who embrace possibility thinking are capable of accomplishing task that seem impossible because they believe in solutions.” – John C. Maxwell

To receive the impossible is never impossible when you are believing in the power of God. Just like eating and drinking, it is a concept we have incoporated into our daily lives. When you go to sleep at night, you are believing that you will wake up in the morning. Yet, no day is guaranteed. When you drive to work, you fail to think that you are not going to make it unless danger comes in the form of a possible accident. Otherwise, you get to work just like you expected. When you open your mouth to talk, you expect words to come out like they do every other day. Everyday we exercise the concept of believing. Believing that God will provide. Imagine what would happen if we take this form of believing, this form of expectancy and applied it to our goals and visions. Imagine the accomplishments that would be achieved when our believing exceeds our own capabilities. Possibilities are endless when we rely on the One who made it all possible. To not receive would be unexpected.

Pushing Through

Sometimes in life it seems like we hit a brick wall. Things do not have to go wrong or right, but we just get stuck. It is like when you are cleaning your house and you take a break. As we all know, once you take a break, it is hard to get started again, if you do get started again. When you finally do start, you have to push yourself to complete the job. Spiritually, I believe we sometimes hit a brick wall. We get stuck because we took a break and got sidetracked. Physically we do need a break, but spiritually we cannot afford one. When you feel like you have given all that you have, you have to keep pushing until you break through. Just remember that what you can’t do or when you have given your all God is there to step in to do what you couldn’t or provide you with the strength to keep going. He’ll never give us more than what we can handle. Just keep pushing and pushing until the Mary-go-round of life picks up in speed and spins with God’s hands.

Thank You!

Thank you everyone for making this day extra special for Anthony. He had a wonderful time at the birthday party despite the windy conditions. He's been partying from sun up until the bouncer went down. In his words, this day was "sweet." Love Ya'll.

In My Weakness He is Made Strong

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

When I have given my all, He provides. What I can't do, He can do.

Confidence Building

My boss just went on vacation for about 3 weeks. So in preparation for her absence, she began to set-up some time with me in order to see where I'm at in my projects. Instead, she decided to not set-up time, but said "Philana, I trust you. You already know what to do. You know the answer before you even come to me." She was right. I usually know the answer but I doubt myself. I don't want to be wrong so I check to make sure that I'm right. Her statement made me realize that my confidence is not built by always being right, but by being wrong. My past failures have helped to build the confidence I have today. I am only where I am today because I was willing to take the risk of being wrong in order to learn what's right. I've tried, failed but tried again, just another way. It takes stepping out to find out how to win.

Going Out on a Limb

"Creativity equals failure…Creativity requires a willingness to look stupid. It means getting out on a limb-knowing that the limb often breaks!"
-John C. Maxwell

De-li-cious!

For a short period of time, I gave up my favorite candy, Hot Tamales. For all of those who know me, this was a big commitment. It was worthwhile, but I was definitely hurting. Nothing could replace the craving I had for these candies. I began to eat other candy in the attempt to fulfill that craving, but absolutely nothing satisfied me. So when the day came that I fulfilled my commitment, I popped one of those delicious mouth-watering candies into my mouth and the boiling craving began to simmer. After I completed my first box, I was feeling quite good.

Isn’t this how it is with God? When we are away from him, we try to fulfill the cravings with other things. We may even pick up a few bad habits along the way. But, nothing can satisfy that craving until we get a dose of Jesus. Once we try Him, we can’t get enough. (God is not bad for your teeth, so you can fill up as much as you’d like.)

I Wanna Give...

Sometimes, when I think about God’s goodness, I just wanna…
Dance, dance, dance, dance, dance all night.
&
Shout, shout, shout, shout, shout all night.

I have been basking in God’s goodness and learning how to lean on His promises. You want to know one thing I have come to understand. That God deserves…
Praise, praise, praise, praise, praise, all night.

Even when the times seem to take a turn for the worse, and things seem to be out of whack. He is in control, so just give Him the….
Thanks, thanks, thanks, thanks, thanks, all night.

When you give credit where credit is due and continually put God above all the problems and the mess that can build up in our lives, God will bless powerfully.

“I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” (Psalms 34:1-3)

“But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice.” (Psalms 68:3)

“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,” (Ephesians 3:20)

Built for Change

"To be built to last, you have to be built for change!"
—Jim Collins, author, "Built to Last"

Y 2 K – T h e y e a r 2 0 0 0. 2 1st C e n t u r y.
A NEW YEAR. A NEW CENTURY. A NEW GENERATION. A NEW BREED.

As a 20 year old college student, what did Y2K mean to me? It meant there was going to be a global crash of technological systems because our code was not written to support the new century. I could remember thinking what idiots (yes, I said this because of course I was a college student who knew everything and felt I was always right) we must be to not be able to support a century change. We’ve only been expecting this for 100 years. Are you telling me that my clock might not work or I can’t pull money out of the ATM machine because it was not built to support zero’s in the code sequence? I didn’t mind that the computers would not work because that would allow me extra time with my reports, but don’t mess with a college student’s money.

Well it turns out that everything was fine. I could pull money out of the ATM machine (I just had to figure out how to get more money in). Any ways, this situation and the panic that arose from it with the realization that in building our technological foundations did not account for radical change brought about many questions. Are we ready for change? Are we built to support radical, profound change? How can we prepare for change?

A few years later, I realized much change has occurred in the 21st century. What was nearly the end of many businesses, became the cause of their success. A change was required in order to endure and changes were indeed made. We have cell phones that now fit in your pocket. I once had a cell phone that couldn’t even fit in my purse. There are CDs instead of records. Internet instead of libraries. Email instead of snail mail. Atari use to be high tech, now Ninetendo is outdated and Xbox has filled the spot. Blackberrys, iPods, you name it and something more technologically advanced has been created in order to not fall behind and possibly lose everything due to the inability to change.

So what has this meant for the church running into the 21st century? In the past 6 years, how have we changed and what can we benefit from in order to not fall behind and become extinct?

First, technology has become a vital role in our existence. Technology has been able to support our desire to reach a broader audience. Outreach is no longer limited to your city, let alone your state. You now have the ability to reach others nationwide as well as worldwide. Email, Internet, and podcast, have contributed to the growth of the church.

Secondly, a more relaxed approach has been taken. Relaxed environments create more welcoming environments. On my job, we are given casual Fridays. On this day we come in to work in relaxed attire. This creates a more productive atmosphere. I am more comfortable and open when relaxed. I am more willing to listen and more productively communicate when comfortable.

Thirdly, a more open mentality has been taken. We are not of this world, but we do live in this world. We cannot be oblivious to what is going on around us or else we have put ourselves in dangers path. We must build our offense by knowing the defense. Know what appeals to as well as what offends the other team. Learn their style, their technique and build a “game plan.”

So how do we build a foundation upon change without bringing about fear? Well, change is always scary. If it wasn’t, then it isn’t change. However, things do not need to drastically change from one day to the next. Everyday shouldn’t be a guessing game. When baby’s get their immunization shots, they are received during different times throughout their first years. You can’t give them 20 shots at one time and (1) expect the doses to work properly without one immunization reducing the effectiveness of the other and (2) expect that baby to be quite unhappy and more than likely traumatized from such a dramatic experience. Likewise, we must inject the changes in phases. Inject one thing let it sit, and then inject another. Build a “treatment” plan. When one change has an adverse side effect, know what substitute you can give in its place. You don’t want to digress in your treatment, but sometimes a slower pace or substitute may be required to proceed.

So remember, we cannot stop change, but we can build a foundation that is prepared to support change. Build your “game plan” or “treatment plan” and be sensitive to your surroundings. Are your team captains on board with your new strategy? Are your nurses ready to administer a substitute drug? To build a lasting foundation, be prepared for change.

Standing on the Promises of God

On April 11, I wrote the following:

I am so sick of the devil trying to interfere in my life and in the blessings of God, that I began to claim this victory in Jesus name. God never intended for us to live our lives at the mercy of the devil, so there is no need for me to get all caught up in the devil’s manipulative power but to declare victory in the power of the Almighty God.

I did exactly this, declared His victory and believed. I was determined to change my way of thinking because I realized that it was a hindrance and the plan of the devil and not the will of God. I never realized that I was locking the blessings out of my life. Only when I got so fed up with the devil did I figure out that too many times did I believe the lies of the devil.
So, I battled with the devil. I kicked up my investment in God a little bit more and declare victory on His promises. I wrote down what I was believing for God to do so that I would not forget the goodness of Jesus when Victory became mine.

Today, two days later, I have received 3 out of the 8 miracles I was seeking. One thing I was told I would receive on April 25. I told the devil to get behind me because I believed it would come it on April 13th. The first came this morning and the remaining two came in within hours and the fourth will be delivered tomorrow. What comfort is received when standing on the promises of God!

I say all of this not for you to think I am only concerned with financial miracles. My April 11th submission used my raise as an example. I am still believing that this is going to be worked out. God delivered on other blessings. You see, we don’t have to believe that God can only bless us with money. The real reward is not in money. The reward I received out of this was the conformation of God’s promises; a conformation in my spirit and the answer to my prayers. My prayers were beyond financial blessings. They were prayers of the heart and assurance of the changes I am trying to make in me.

Worthwhile Investment

Tonight, my pastor spoke on the priceless value of worship. He said you either have sight or insight. Some think that that the investment we make in loving God is a waste. Today, talk is all about the investment in our future. Instead of pensions, we receive 401K. IRAs and HRAs are that investment of our future. We go to school to invest in our future careers. Investment is in. Well, investment in our future begins with the investment in our relationship with Jesus. What we invest in now is for our eternal future, but God is so good that He even rewards our investment here on earth. So I have to agree with the current mindset. Invest, Invest, Invest…but do it in God. His return on our investment is likewise priceless and far greater than any material ROI (Return on Investment).

Sick &Tired of being Sick &Tired

About a month and a half ago I testified of the financial blessing God provided me on my job. I had been claiming this blessing for many months and it came, just like God promised. In fact, my manager said the blessing I received is nearly unheard of in my company. Today, a month and a half later, I still have not received the full increase promised. After many days and emails, the problem still exist. So when I hung up the phone this morning, I began to really get upset with the devil. In fact, I just got fed up. I am so sick of the devil trying to interfere in my life and in the blessings of God, that I began to claim this victory in Jesus name. God never intended for us to live our lives at the mercy of the devil, so there is no need for me to get all caught up in the devil’s manipulative power but to declare victory in the power of the Almighty God.

Jesus said in Mark 11:22-23, "And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith." The key to this scripture is to have no doubt in your heart, but have faith that will move mountains.

Joy Haney states that to live in the miracle level, "Just begin to fearlessly step out on God’s Word, and believe Him for a miracle." Again, do not doubt, but have faith. Trust God and believe in Him.

So if you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, then move those mountains with faith. Don’t doubt God, but believe in His goodness and in His desire to bless you. But you better doubt the devil!

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Anthony

Today is my son's 5th birthday.

I am in church today because

I wanted something better for my son.

If it wasn't for that,

I would not have wanted better for myself.

I love you Anthony and Happy Birthday!

A Belief

“Belief is not just an idea that you possess; it is an idea that possesses you. A belief holds great power, because it changes an individual’s expectations.”
-John C. Maxwell

When you see a vision, you don’t necessarily see bumps in the road as another obstacle to overcome, but you see overcoming that obstacle as a closer step to achieving your vision. Think of it this way, a paved street was only created after the dirt road is no longer sufficient for the need of that community. Someone had a vision after identifying the need and decided to act upon that need. But achieving that smooth paved road came about after necessary preparation and labor. After the blue prints were drawn, the materials gathered and the workers hired, work could begin. Sometimes rain would create intolerable working conditions, and others the son would allow for smooth sailing, but each day, each new problem was one step closer to achieving the end product. That smooth paved road was created because you believed and expected it to happen. The time and work required to achieve the goal was not merely mandated labor, but an investment in the vision. A belief requires investment or else it’s just a thought. A belief requires high expectations so that when you hit a dead end your high expectations require you to find another way to the other side. Or else you will not achieve what you believe to receive. As John C. Maxwell stated, it is an idea that possesses you.

Management Style

One of the hardest things about management is getting people to see your vision, to conform to your thinking. You don't simply want to tell people what to do and have them complete the task, but you want them to not only complete the task but see the vision and take the necessary steps to achieve the vision. Therefore, when hiring staff, you hire like minded people. When taking a new leadership position with current employees, you work with your staff to get them to conform to your thinking. Either way you gain a leadership position, it takes adjustment on both parties.

However, as management are we too focused on the way they think instead of how they think? Do we want people to think like us or people who see the same vision but might think to achieve it differently? As management, we want to retain the vision but remain open to the strategies and techniques that might differ from our own. Management growth is dependent on the strength of the team as well as the direction of leadership. Strengthen the strengths and develop the weaknesses. Get people to that same page, but don't knock their strengths in order to get them there.

Positive Thoughts

"You are today where your thoughts have brought you.
You will be tomorrow where your thoughts take you."
-James Allen

"Food feeds the body, but positive thoughts feed the mind that affects the body."
-Joy Haney

To every thing there is a season...

I finished reading Joy Haney’s book. Living in the Miracle Level. I was so excited about this book when I first began to read it that I knew I would have finished it sooner. However, I unintentionally began to slow down. A few things I began to read again in an effort to absorb all that I can. So, when I laid this book down last night, I realized (though I have been told this before) that God perfectly planned the timing of my reading this book. Since I picked up this book (1 ½ weeks ago), I can literally point out all of the different situations that have presented themselves during this week and a half, that applied to the very chapter I was reading at that time.

I am a visual person, I learn from seeing and doing, not just hearing. God used my strengths and built upon them. God allowed me to see the answer (The Bible and this book), He gave me the trial (the doing), I applied the answer to my questions (prayer & fasting for my trials) and then I understood. He answered the question before I asked. He gave me the way out before I saw the need. It was cause and effect. God was saying, here is the effect of prayer. Then he would present a cause for prayer. He would say, here is the effect of fasting. Then He would present a cause for fasting.

Do I take this as coincidence? No, I do not. We are presented with trials in all times of our lives, but most times we do not understand why we face these trials. We may never know. But in these instances I can strongly say, this is what God wanted to show me. Can I be wrong in my assumptions? Yes. Do I believe that I am wrong? No. Why? Because this is God’s perfect timing. "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." (Ecc 3:1)

I have prayed and I have fasted
I believe that I will receive.
I have claimed in Jesus Name
And He’s promised the victory!

Victory in Prayer

There is Victory in Prayer
There is Triumph in Prayer
There is Comfort in Prayer
There is Strength in Prayer
There is Joy in Prayer.
There is Peace in Prayer
That which is good is provided from Prayer
That which is acceptable can be found in Prayer
The perfect will of God can be obtained through prayer
And in all things, we will win with Prayer.

Living with The Ark of God

This morning as I was reading Joy Haney’s book, Living in the Miracle Level, I began to think about the blessings of God. After being blessed so wonderfully in the last several weeks, I couldn’t help but wonder how do I stay within God’s realm of blessings? How do I continue to receive what He desires for me to receive? I don’t want to just feel blessed when I physically see the blessing, but I want to feel blessed everyday. So how do I stay on this path when there are so many twist and turns in the road? How do I stay consistent when living for God?

Sister Haney pointed out that when we touch Jesus, we are blessed. She said “It is interesting to note that this blessing is also demonstrated in the Old Testament, and it was centered around the Ark of God. Whoever possessed the ark was blessed.” Although I am not physically in the presence of the ark of God, but I am capable of touching Jesus everyday. Just like the title of the chapter, “Living the Blessing,” I can live in the blessing by staying in His presence at all times. I must glorify Him and lift Him up. Draw closer to Him and allow Him to lead me and guide me.

There is no limit to His blessings and there should be no limit to mine. As stated in Psalms 34:1 “I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” By giving my all in praise, in worship, by glorifying Him and mirroring His behavior, I am allowing myself to live in the blessing. In my giving, I will receive more abundantly. To live with the Ark of God, is to glorify God at all times.

Exciting Change

God has been moving in the church so powerfully that sometimes I have to sit back and observe all the wonderful changes that have occurred. As a church, we’ve begun the hike up the mountain in an effort to reach the peak. The climb can be challenging and some parts seem to progress slower than others, but when we turn around and see all that we have accomplished, the reward is great. As we continue to have more powerful services, more united prayer, and more fasting, we overcome milestones and the reality of the vision becomes more and more clear. I am excited about what God is doing.