Psalm 37;23 (KJV)
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.
Philippians 4;13 (KJV)
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
John 15;5 (KJV)
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
*Please, grab a pencil and paper*
The scripture reads as follows: The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.
Without wasting your time with a lot of flowery words and statements, let me get right to the presentation. I begin with a question. Have you, when reading this scripture, ever pictured yourself as "the good man"? No?! Okay, re-read the scripture again, this time insert your name in place of "the good man". Serious!! Now, take the time to allow that to settle within yourself......
(The steps of Brova Stokes are ordered by the Lord: and I delighteth in my way.)
This is a quick move. Go back and write your name down, and right next to it write 'good man' (for my Siszas you already know to write down 'good woman'). Quickly, again, capture that mental thought of yourself.... as the 'good man/woman'. How did you see yourself as you thought about the association? Write that down. If you need to re-read the scripture again in order to perform the task, do so at this time. It is important that you perform this exercise.
At this junction of the presentation, I will give to you the Hebrew's understanding of that word "ordered". This is because the scripture states that, the 'steps' of the good man ARE ordered.... It is the Lord which has control and gives the orders.
Ordered-- In the Hebrew: kuwn (koon); To be erect (i.e. stand perpendicular); hence to set up, in a great variety of applications, literally (establish, fix, prepare, apply), or figuratively (appoint, render sure, proper or prosperous)-: certain(ly), confirm, direct, faithfulness, fashion, fasten, firm, be fitted, be fixed, frame, be meet, ordain, order, perfect, (make)preparation, prepare(self), provide, make provision, (be, made)ready, right, set(aright, fast, forth), be stable, (e-)stablish, stand, tarry (x) very deed.
A GREAT VARIETY OF APPLICATIONS!!!!!! That is an understatement. LOL. But, if you pull yourself to the many different ways (literally and figuratively) we can "step", you will see all the ways the Lord orders. Oh Hallelujah!!!!! Thank you Lord!!!!! Forgive me, I just thought about how I used to walk; when I was outside of the will of God. Thank you for Christ Jesus!!!!
*Alright, write down where you have been 'stepping' lately*
Moving on. Here are the other scriptures, offered as a co-mingled, stacked, supportive, foundation to the scripture of use. They are offered to show that when the 'good man/woman's steps' are ordered, that same good man/woman will have the understanding to delight in the direction he will travel. HAHAHAHA!!!! Something pushed me to pray for these next steps I am about to take in this New Year. Hallelujah!!!! Oh!!! The joy that is on me at this very moment!!!!!
*Write down your 'desired' steps for the New Year*
Philippians 4; 13 reads as follows: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Of course this particular scripture comes at the end of a certain section of the epistle Paul wrote to the church in Philippi. What is resting in it to be the support to the verse in Psalm 37 is that Paul expresses, for us to gather up, no matter what I am 'ordered' to do, I can do it because it is really Christ that give me the strength to get it done. Look at the way Paul phrases his sentence, "through Christ which strengtheneth me". He uses the word 'which'. I bet there is an English major reading this, (probably red marking up this presentation) and, smiling. There is a major difference to a sentence when you utilize prepositions, and adverbs in such a way to give weight to one person or item, as apposed to the other. What I am saying is that when we read that sentence, our natural tendency is to say, "who strengtheneth me". We desire to place all the weight on Christ Jesus. To a degree we are right but, what Paul shows us is that the Power does come from Christ and we are right to acknowledge that it comes from Him. What we cannot overlook is that we are the ones taking the step. I hope you see this. It is very subtle and can be missed, by us, because we utterly desire to go back and say to Christ, "If you had just showed me that I wasn't suppose to go there."
I am willing to submit that He did show you, not only that but, ORDERED you to go the other way and GAVE to you the strength to make the STEP in that other direction. WOO!!!!! HERE IT COMES!!!!! Why didn't you make that turn? Why do you harbor that guilt about not making that turn? Do I need to go further? I bet you sitting at the computer, right now, saying to yourself, "That other scripture is so not needed. I know it." Nope!!! You need it!!!! HALLELUJAH!!!!!
John 15;5
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (Italicized, bold, and underlined by Brova for emphasis)
*Write Jesus over the top of those desired steps for the New Year*
Take a small break from reading to lock into your mental that this scripture is that of John transcribing what Christ Jesus said. Again, this is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ making this statement........
Ready?
You are the branch: The part that sticks out and hangs on. The part that, if blessed to do so, will show forth the bloom of a flower or fruit. The part that will be exposed to all the hazards of the elements. The part that can be discarded, if necessary, and cast into the fire, trash, or dog's mouth as a toy.
The branch also can be valued. The branch can be pruned back, in order to bring in a better grouping of flowers or fruit. The branch can be valued and transplanted to begin again. The branch can have itself judged as sturdy enough to bear the weight of rope, tire, and endless summers of children's joy.
How is all that possible?
Christ Jesus is the vine: The source of the branches life. The place of all nutrients. The seat of what will remember how many flowers or how much fruit the branch produced in the past. The sometimes unseen, but never forgotten part that holds all value. If it were not for the vine..... Better yet, if all branches were to be cut away from the vine, that vine WILL grow new branches. If that vine is cut down, no branch can survive. That simple.
Christ goes even deeper and states, "He that abideth in me, and I in him...." That right there I should not have to comment on. As a matter of fact, I will not. I ask that you comment. Yes, you can. Tell Christ, me, and the others that read, exactly what this portion of Christ's statement is telling you.
*Write down, on the paper; for yourself, when you knew you didn't abide*
We can see that when these two scriptures, Philippians 4;13 and John 15;5, are mixed together; to form the foundation of the verse in Psalm, we see that it truly is our delight to travel in the way that Christ orders. I mean, all that is necessary for us to maintain is that it is Him that gives strength to our ability to step and as we continue to abide in Him, we can take that given strength to make the step in the ordered direction. Nothing is simpler. Please, do not over complicate your walk. As a Pastor once informed me, "If you will only be given enough strength to make one step.... make that one step, and then await for instructions on the next step. For Christ will strengthen you to stay ready for the next step, while you wait too." My Brothers and Sisters, we are nothing more than His children; to perform in the way He would desire us to perform. Our duty is to fall into place; as children would; for their Father. So let us begin to or continue to step in the right direction.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Friday, December 17, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
For My Brothers
I am going to transcribe a portion of a book that I am reading, for the second time (it is just that important, in my opinion), and it is my prayer that you would go out and purchase this book.
'The Silence of Adam' by Dr. Larry Crabb
Taken from Chapter 9 'The Way Unmanly Men Relate'
No man can be happy without living out the call to make visible that which is hard to see about God. Happiness comes for a man when he shows, by his life, that God is always moving, is never stopped by darkness, and is continually up to something good, no matter how bad things may appear.
Men are called to hover over darkness, to enter the mystery of relationships until they are humbled enough to trust God, and then to act to further God's purposes. That action, by the way, will fall flat with a loud thud unless God is in it. Most men never even think like this; they never give their call from God a moment's thought. And not even the best man lives out his manhood completely.
If it is true that no man can be completely happy without perfectly honoring God's call to be a man, then it follows that no man on earth is completely happy. Every one of us struggles with some measure of unhappiness, some experience of internal emptiness and restless dissatisfaction, that our Creator never intended us to endure.
From deep within our hearts, in those places of our being that we do not understand, a yearning emerges. It is a desperate longing for a response, a vacuum that needs o be filled. It is also an angry turbulence that won't let us sit still. To at least some degree, every man knows that he is not fully happy. And when his unfulfilled desires surface into the light of day, he is confronted with the essential choice of human existence: to trust God or not trust him, to light his own fires or rely on the name of the Lord.
If he trusts God, the unhappiness (which must continue till death) is surrounded by hope, by acceptance, by meaning in spite of imperfection. And he is empowered to move well. That brings joy.
If he refuses to trust, the unhappiness within him becomes his most compelling problem. He must find some way to deal with it.
We must understand a simple principle: every man is moving. Movement defines a man's existence. But all movement is not good. Therefore, when a man is not moving as he should, he will move in ways he should not. When good movement stops, bad movement begins. Good movement is movement through personal unhappiness towards God. Bad movement is movement aimed at nothing higher than relieving personal unhappiness.
Because men, like women, are fundamentally relational beings, all movement will be seen most clearly in the way a man relates. A man will either call forth life and beauty in the people he knows or he will destroy that same life and beauty. A man's effect on others may be imperceptible or dramatic, but it is there. No interaction of more than a few seconds, no conversation beyond the most casual, leaves the other person unchanged.
Manly men release others from their control and encourage them with their influence. They touch their wives, children, and friends in sensitive ways that free them to struggle with their loneliness and selfishness and pain. Manly men nudge their family and friends to the same crossroads where they, as men, have found that trust or unbelief must be chosen.
Unmanly men require their friends and family to meet their demands. Men who move with control, anger, and terror deaden others into conformity or incite them to self-preserving rebellion.
I pray this excerpt awakens that part of you, my Brother, that has been SCREAMING to be recognized. Please, go get this book. I know that it will bless you, your wife, child(ren), family and friends, who all have been anticipating the REAL you to come forth.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
'The Silence of Adam' by Dr. Larry Crabb
Taken from Chapter 9 'The Way Unmanly Men Relate'
No man can be happy without living out the call to make visible that which is hard to see about God. Happiness comes for a man when he shows, by his life, that God is always moving, is never stopped by darkness, and is continually up to something good, no matter how bad things may appear.
Men are called to hover over darkness, to enter the mystery of relationships until they are humbled enough to trust God, and then to act to further God's purposes. That action, by the way, will fall flat with a loud thud unless God is in it. Most men never even think like this; they never give their call from God a moment's thought. And not even the best man lives out his manhood completely.
If it is true that no man can be completely happy without perfectly honoring God's call to be a man, then it follows that no man on earth is completely happy. Every one of us struggles with some measure of unhappiness, some experience of internal emptiness and restless dissatisfaction, that our Creator never intended us to endure.
From deep within our hearts, in those places of our being that we do not understand, a yearning emerges. It is a desperate longing for a response, a vacuum that needs o be filled. It is also an angry turbulence that won't let us sit still. To at least some degree, every man knows that he is not fully happy. And when his unfulfilled desires surface into the light of day, he is confronted with the essential choice of human existence: to trust God or not trust him, to light his own fires or rely on the name of the Lord.
If he trusts God, the unhappiness (which must continue till death) is surrounded by hope, by acceptance, by meaning in spite of imperfection. And he is empowered to move well. That brings joy.
If he refuses to trust, the unhappiness within him becomes his most compelling problem. He must find some way to deal with it.
We must understand a simple principle: every man is moving. Movement defines a man's existence. But all movement is not good. Therefore, when a man is not moving as he should, he will move in ways he should not. When good movement stops, bad movement begins. Good movement is movement through personal unhappiness towards God. Bad movement is movement aimed at nothing higher than relieving personal unhappiness.
Because men, like women, are fundamentally relational beings, all movement will be seen most clearly in the way a man relates. A man will either call forth life and beauty in the people he knows or he will destroy that same life and beauty. A man's effect on others may be imperceptible or dramatic, but it is there. No interaction of more than a few seconds, no conversation beyond the most casual, leaves the other person unchanged.
Manly men release others from their control and encourage them with their influence. They touch their wives, children, and friends in sensitive ways that free them to struggle with their loneliness and selfishness and pain. Manly men nudge their family and friends to the same crossroads where they, as men, have found that trust or unbelief must be chosen.
Unmanly men require their friends and family to meet their demands. Men who move with control, anger, and terror deaden others into conformity or incite them to self-preserving rebellion.
I pray this excerpt awakens that part of you, my Brother, that has been SCREAMING to be recognized. Please, go get this book. I know that it will bless you, your wife, child(ren), family and friends, who all have been anticipating the REAL you to come forth.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Monday, December 13, 2010
You can't see me
1 Corinthians 4;5 (KJV)
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
It is a phrase that is widely used among the men of my church, and myself. "Don't be like me. Be like Jesus." We say it, more or less, to remind each other and those that may be in listening range that Christ Jesus is all we should be focused on. Viewing us, the actual man, may cause questions to arise that can cloud the actual perception of Christ Jesus.
Paul makes this statement, in his epistle, to tell the Corinthian church that very same thing. "Before you go and begin to think that we are these great men, who can do no wrong, get some proper understanding. This ain't about me, that dude, that dude, or even that dude over there. This right here, that I desire to convey to you is all about Christ Jesus our Lord."
So in your activities today, keep this in remembrance. I can assure you that your perception of those individuals you come across will become a little more inviting, and you will surely start to think about yourself in a way that allows for a little more room to be who you are.
Remember, 'Don't be like me. Be like Jesus.'
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
It is a phrase that is widely used among the men of my church, and myself. "Don't be like me. Be like Jesus." We say it, more or less, to remind each other and those that may be in listening range that Christ Jesus is all we should be focused on. Viewing us, the actual man, may cause questions to arise that can cloud the actual perception of Christ Jesus.
Paul makes this statement, in his epistle, to tell the Corinthian church that very same thing. "Before you go and begin to think that we are these great men, who can do no wrong, get some proper understanding. This ain't about me, that dude, that dude, or even that dude over there. This right here, that I desire to convey to you is all about Christ Jesus our Lord."
So in your activities today, keep this in remembrance. I can assure you that your perception of those individuals you come across will become a little more inviting, and you will surely start to think about yourself in a way that allows for a little more room to be who you are.
Remember, 'Don't be like me. Be like Jesus.'
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Get there early
Psalm 63;1-3(KJV)
O God, thou art my God, early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
We have all heard them......
The early bird catches the worm. Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise. Even the 70's soul group 'The Gap Band' told us, "Early in the morning... I'm gonna find me another lover. So, I've got to get up."
It appears that this word 'early' has some beneficial meaning that we may need to add to our daily plans. Allow me to present further.
The Oxford Pocket American Dictionary of current English defines the word 'early' as: Before the due, usual, or expected time.
The New Strong's Concordance of the Bible lists the word 'early' (in the Hebrew) as shakam (shaw-kam') meaning: to load up (on the back of man or beast), i.e. to start early in the morning:-- (arise, be up, get [oneself] up, rise up) early (bedtimes), morning.
Effective actions can be produced by preparing the necessary materials, tools, and effort at the exact moment of appointed time but, when those actions come about a little bit earlier.... the outcome is just as effective but probably more welcomed. The Hebrews saw it as an understood mindset based on the job that had to be done. When you have a large amount of goods that needed to be moved, you needed to fix your mind to get up early; to get stared early; to unload early. Not to mention the fact that if the items you possess meant your work would take multiple days. Now, not only do you need an early start but you will need an early bedtime; to receive the adequate amount of rest in order to arise early the next morning.
This small presentation is to alert all that early is not a sparatic state of being; to be entered and exited on a whim. No! It is an expressed mindset one must have in order to gain all that is to be desired.
Simply stated, "Fix your mind to start viewing the thought of 'on time' as being late, and that 'being early' is on time."
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
O God, thou art my God, early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
We have all heard them......
The early bird catches the worm. Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise. Even the 70's soul group 'The Gap Band' told us, "Early in the morning... I'm gonna find me another lover. So, I've got to get up."
It appears that this word 'early' has some beneficial meaning that we may need to add to our daily plans. Allow me to present further.
The Oxford Pocket American Dictionary of current English defines the word 'early' as: Before the due, usual, or expected time.
The New Strong's Concordance of the Bible lists the word 'early' (in the Hebrew) as shakam (shaw-kam') meaning: to load up (on the back of man or beast), i.e. to start early in the morning:-- (arise, be up, get [oneself] up, rise up) early (bedtimes), morning.
Effective actions can be produced by preparing the necessary materials, tools, and effort at the exact moment of appointed time but, when those actions come about a little bit earlier.... the outcome is just as effective but probably more welcomed. The Hebrews saw it as an understood mindset based on the job that had to be done. When you have a large amount of goods that needed to be moved, you needed to fix your mind to get up early; to get stared early; to unload early. Not to mention the fact that if the items you possess meant your work would take multiple days. Now, not only do you need an early start but you will need an early bedtime; to receive the adequate amount of rest in order to arise early the next morning.
This small presentation is to alert all that early is not a sparatic state of being; to be entered and exited on a whim. No! It is an expressed mindset one must have in order to gain all that is to be desired.
Simply stated, "Fix your mind to start viewing the thought of 'on time' as being late, and that 'being early' is on time."
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Ya still don't know? Okay, I'll say it again....
This is taken from my facebook page. It is the last 'note' that I posted yet I do believe that it could be beneficial to an individual that may be up at this hour, in need of a little encouragement. I pray that it will cause you to seek Christ.
Go with me to Paul's letter to the church in Philippi.
Philippians 4;4-7 (KJV): Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Now, I should be able to end this presentation right here but, what is to be highlighted is the neat "tucked in" expression within the scripture. Go back to the scripture (spend a moment and read again), now read verse 5 again.
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
Okay, understand Paul wrote this epistle to a group of people who didn't have knowledge of Christ Jesus and his power until he met a few Philippians (Lydia and a number of other women) while on his second missionary journey to preach the Gospel in Macedonia--Acts 16;9-14. Alot can be learned when you have to sit in the company of those who are bound by the classic definition of the word 'ignorant' (this may be a good time to go and look up that definition.... I will wait.)
Anyway, this letter is written by Paul as he is in prison in Rome-- Philippians 4;18-- and the overall tone of the letter is that of Christ's all-sufficiency; Him giving meaning to life and causing people to serve Him, even unto death-- Philippians 1;20-21.
Focusing on the scripture particular to this presentation, we see right out the gate that we are being asked to "Rejoice", always. It is emphasized even more with the addition of, 'and again I say, Rejoice' Do you see?.... This is a request, better yet a demand: if you will. No matter what is before you: Rejoice!! Yeap, that bill IS due, that person IS aggravating, and your mama DID borrow money from not to pay it back but, Rejoice!! Oh, by the way, you FOUND your love in bed with your family member..... and again I say Rejoice!!!!! Of course this is difficult, but remember this is a letter to a people who are receiving a power, a calm, a comfort, a joy, and a Life they have never known before, nor did they know that it was right at their fingertips. Understand??? They had to be reminded. They are not like us; in today's time, we have the Word. It is right over there next to you, ready to be read and put into practice. Some of us can recite verses with ease and in effortless tempo. So maybe 'to Rejoice' ain't that difficult for us..... maybe I didn't need to use so much sarcasm.
Moving over to verse 6:
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanks giving let your requests be made known unto God
Let us place direct attention on 'but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving' Once again, remember, this is for a people that don't know, and since we need to seriously understand, like they didn't.... or maybe they did: for I am going to break down those three, important words so 'right understanding' is gained. First let's start with prayer.
Prayer : In the Greek-- proseuche (pros-yoo-khay), it's base word; a compound word is: proseuchomai (pros-yoo-khom-ahee) meaning to pray; to God in worship by moving toward God with the request. Now, this word 'prayer' is our act of worshipping God because He can answer our request.
Let us breakdown the next word, which is supplication.
Supplication : In the Greek-- deesis (deh-ay-sis), it's base word is: deomai (deh-om-ahee) meaning to beg; as in binding oneself. Now, this word 'supplication' is another form of request, just more dire or imminent. It puts me in the mind of the innocent man inside an interrogation room of the police station asking; begging to be released.
Thirdly, we breakdown the last word thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving : In the Greek-- eucharistia (yoo-khar-is-tee-ah), it's base word; a compound word is: eucharistos (yoo-khar-is-tos) meaning to be well favored because of a gracious action bestowed upon you. This word 'thanksgiving' is gratitude towards God, actually it is the use of gracious language towards God.
AIN'T YOU GLAD THE BREAKDOWN HAPPENED!!!!!!!!!!!
Whoa! That is another presentation, right there..... LOL Hallelujah!
We are told to 'be careful for nothing' because *when we worship God for being the one that grants requests, and the immediate answer to our MUCH NEEDED requests; our begging Him, we will use that gracious language known when moving towards Him. UNDERSTAND? This is the qualifier to verse 5. In the sense that the two verses could be seen (in those days) as flipped around. For we read, just as the Philippians did; learning for the first time: overcoming their ignorance, that we are to 'let our moderation be known unto all men' and this is told to us right after hearing that we are to ALWAYS REJOICE.
"Hold on!!!!!", is what I imagine the people in Philippi were saying.... "How are we to show this....., this 'moderation'?"
Well people, you do it by 'being careful for nothing'. Again, do you understand? Look at verses 5 and 6 again. Are you understanding???? (Is your ignorance fading away) I AM REJOICING!!!!! HALLELUJAH!!!
The people of Philippi; the Philippians and the people of Facebook; the Facebookians share one thing in common. They both almost allowed for the bridge to go unannounced and unnoticed; to remain 'ignorant'. That very last portion of verse 5.
The Lord is at hand
This is the caveat that washes away that ignorance. The Lord is at hand...., He is present; in your life. Right now, to give EVERLASTING life. He is presented to you at this moment, for you to grasp Him: to obtain the gift He brings with Him. Salvation!!!!! Now, do you UNDERSTAND????!!!!! Of course we can Rejoice and again Rejoice. Of course we can be careful for nothing. letting all our prayers and supplications be with thanksgiving. Of course we can let our moderation be known unto all men. Why? Because the Lord is at hand. And, because the Lord is at hand, we can obtain a Salvation that has another set of benefits intertwined within.... OH! Here is the place of the SHOUT!!!! Verse 7.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus
Now you should UNDERSTAND!!!!! Brother and Sisters, whether you are of knowledge or considered ignorant, this presentation comes so that you can continue to move forward; from whatever point you find yourself in, at this time. Verse 7 wraps up the eradication of ignorance. Who doesn't desire to have that peace? That peace.... of God?! C'mon, look at what it does, this peace, it passeth all.... yeap, that's right, ALL UNDERSTANDING!!!!!!! No more ignorance!!!!!! I know I am grateful for Christ Jesus, and the Peace He has brought to me. All because I give my requests, and all my begging to Him, with language of thanks and praise; to leave them before Him. Again, for the last time, I ask, do you UNDERSTAND? Why would there be anymore ignorance to the access or ability to reach Him? Why would there be anymore ignorance to the walking towards Him; in worship of Him with prayer and praise? Why would there be an ignorance to His redemptive nature and the gift of Salvation; which He has and brings with Him upon you meeting Him?
HOW IGNORANT IS THAT?
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Go with me to Paul's letter to the church in Philippi.
Philippians 4;4-7 (KJV): Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Now, I should be able to end this presentation right here but, what is to be highlighted is the neat "tucked in" expression within the scripture. Go back to the scripture (spend a moment and read again), now read verse 5 again.
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
Okay, understand Paul wrote this epistle to a group of people who didn't have knowledge of Christ Jesus and his power until he met a few Philippians (Lydia and a number of other women) while on his second missionary journey to preach the Gospel in Macedonia--Acts 16;9-14. Alot can be learned when you have to sit in the company of those who are bound by the classic definition of the word 'ignorant' (this may be a good time to go and look up that definition.... I will wait.)
Anyway, this letter is written by Paul as he is in prison in Rome-- Philippians 4;18-- and the overall tone of the letter is that of Christ's all-sufficiency; Him giving meaning to life and causing people to serve Him, even unto death-- Philippians 1;20-21.
Focusing on the scripture particular to this presentation, we see right out the gate that we are being asked to "Rejoice", always. It is emphasized even more with the addition of, 'and again I say, Rejoice' Do you see?.... This is a request, better yet a demand: if you will. No matter what is before you: Rejoice!! Yeap, that bill IS due, that person IS aggravating, and your mama DID borrow money from not to pay it back but, Rejoice!! Oh, by the way, you FOUND your love in bed with your family member..... and again I say Rejoice!!!!! Of course this is difficult, but remember this is a letter to a people who are receiving a power, a calm, a comfort, a joy, and a Life they have never known before, nor did they know that it was right at their fingertips. Understand??? They had to be reminded. They are not like us; in today's time, we have the Word. It is right over there next to you, ready to be read and put into practice. Some of us can recite verses with ease and in effortless tempo. So maybe 'to Rejoice' ain't that difficult for us..... maybe I didn't need to use so much sarcasm.
Moving over to verse 6:
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanks giving let your requests be made known unto God
Let us place direct attention on 'but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving' Once again, remember, this is for a people that don't know, and since we need to seriously understand, like they didn't.... or maybe they did: for I am going to break down those three, important words so 'right understanding' is gained. First let's start with prayer.
Prayer : In the Greek-- proseuche (pros-yoo-khay), it's base word; a compound word is: proseuchomai (pros-yoo-khom-ahee) meaning to pray; to God in worship by moving toward God with the request. Now, this word 'prayer' is our act of worshipping God because He can answer our request.
Let us breakdown the next word, which is supplication.
Supplication : In the Greek-- deesis (deh-ay-sis), it's base word is: deomai (deh-om-ahee) meaning to beg; as in binding oneself. Now, this word 'supplication' is another form of request, just more dire or imminent. It puts me in the mind of the innocent man inside an interrogation room of the police station asking; begging to be released.
Thirdly, we breakdown the last word thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving : In the Greek-- eucharistia (yoo-khar-is-tee-ah), it's base word; a compound word is: eucharistos (yoo-khar-is-tos) meaning to be well favored because of a gracious action bestowed upon you. This word 'thanksgiving' is gratitude towards God, actually it is the use of gracious language towards God.
AIN'T YOU GLAD THE BREAKDOWN HAPPENED!!!!!!!!!!!
Whoa! That is another presentation, right there..... LOL Hallelujah!
We are told to 'be careful for nothing' because *when we worship God for being the one that grants requests, and the immediate answer to our MUCH NEEDED requests; our begging Him, we will use that gracious language known when moving towards Him. UNDERSTAND? This is the qualifier to verse 5. In the sense that the two verses could be seen (in those days) as flipped around. For we read, just as the Philippians did; learning for the first time: overcoming their ignorance, that we are to 'let our moderation be known unto all men' and this is told to us right after hearing that we are to ALWAYS REJOICE.
"Hold on!!!!!", is what I imagine the people in Philippi were saying.... "How are we to show this....., this 'moderation'?"
Well people, you do it by 'being careful for nothing'. Again, do you understand? Look at verses 5 and 6 again. Are you understanding???? (Is your ignorance fading away) I AM REJOICING!!!!! HALLELUJAH!!!
The people of Philippi; the Philippians and the people of Facebook; the Facebookians share one thing in common. They both almost allowed for the bridge to go unannounced and unnoticed; to remain 'ignorant'. That very last portion of verse 5.
The Lord is at hand
This is the caveat that washes away that ignorance. The Lord is at hand...., He is present; in your life. Right now, to give EVERLASTING life. He is presented to you at this moment, for you to grasp Him: to obtain the gift He brings with Him. Salvation!!!!! Now, do you UNDERSTAND????!!!!! Of course we can Rejoice and again Rejoice. Of course we can be careful for nothing. letting all our prayers and supplications be with thanksgiving. Of course we can let our moderation be known unto all men. Why? Because the Lord is at hand. And, because the Lord is at hand, we can obtain a Salvation that has another set of benefits intertwined within.... OH! Here is the place of the SHOUT!!!! Verse 7.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus
Now you should UNDERSTAND!!!!! Brother and Sisters, whether you are of knowledge or considered ignorant, this presentation comes so that you can continue to move forward; from whatever point you find yourself in, at this time. Verse 7 wraps up the eradication of ignorance. Who doesn't desire to have that peace? That peace.... of God?! C'mon, look at what it does, this peace, it passeth all.... yeap, that's right, ALL UNDERSTANDING!!!!!!! No more ignorance!!!!!! I know I am grateful for Christ Jesus, and the Peace He has brought to me. All because I give my requests, and all my begging to Him, with language of thanks and praise; to leave them before Him. Again, for the last time, I ask, do you UNDERSTAND? Why would there be anymore ignorance to the access or ability to reach Him? Why would there be anymore ignorance to the walking towards Him; in worship of Him with prayer and praise? Why would there be an ignorance to His redemptive nature and the gift of Salvation; which He has and brings with Him upon you meeting Him?
HOW IGNORANT IS THAT?
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
First Things First
Genesis 1:1
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Everything has a beginning. Without a starting point, there wouldn't be a way to mark a journey. As you go about your day, take note to how and when you start. Almost every person I know begins their day with counsel. They sit in counsel with the Lord; to receive knowledge, wisdom, and instructions. At the same time, they give to Him there desires for the day, maybe even for the weekend.
What I am encouraging you to do is examine how you begin your day. There are many ways to start out: prayer, exercising, gathering overnight market indicators, returning messages. The point is to recognize that without a proper mindset and motive you will be engaging in another repetitive action. The scripture shows us that when God created, He did so with purpose. There was a motive, a reason, it wasn't by happen stance. Just as I am suggesting you do as well. Do not allow for your actions to be repetitive motions that just are. When you begin something today, first, get some counsel on the matter. Then, check your motives for wanting to begin the activity. Finally, set a purpose for the activity or action. By doing these things, you will most likely find a greater pleasure that is derived from it, as well as see that most of what you are putting into motion probably isn't necessary.
I pray that this little bit of encouragement will assist you in your walk, today. Continue to seek God's answer on your matters, and make sure that you place all desires before Him to receive what He has to say about them. Trust, His Word will not steer you wrong. Enjoy the rest of your day.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Everything has a beginning. Without a starting point, there wouldn't be a way to mark a journey. As you go about your day, take note to how and when you start. Almost every person I know begins their day with counsel. They sit in counsel with the Lord; to receive knowledge, wisdom, and instructions. At the same time, they give to Him there desires for the day, maybe even for the weekend.
What I am encouraging you to do is examine how you begin your day. There are many ways to start out: prayer, exercising, gathering overnight market indicators, returning messages. The point is to recognize that without a proper mindset and motive you will be engaging in another repetitive action. The scripture shows us that when God created, He did so with purpose. There was a motive, a reason, it wasn't by happen stance. Just as I am suggesting you do as well. Do not allow for your actions to be repetitive motions that just are. When you begin something today, first, get some counsel on the matter. Then, check your motives for wanting to begin the activity. Finally, set a purpose for the activity or action. By doing these things, you will most likely find a greater pleasure that is derived from it, as well as see that most of what you are putting into motion probably isn't necessary.
I pray that this little bit of encouragement will assist you in your walk, today. Continue to seek God's answer on your matters, and make sure that you place all desires before Him to receive what He has to say about them. Trust, His Word will not steer you wrong. Enjoy the rest of your day.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Friday, December 10, 2010
Welcome to the Fellowship
Good Afternoon All,
I want to thank you for taking the time to come by my page and begin this portion of the journey with me. As I move forward in the desire to fulfill the will of God in my life, I pray that this blog will become an extension of Christ Jesus and all that He is doing for those who participate, and His reaching those that may not have had opportunity to meet Him.
There is no agenda, no other motives, and as the title states, 'It is all about fellowship'. So, as I move to bring nothing but that which will encourage you to know Christ Jesus, I ask that you sit for awhile, with me, and give feedback. That way we all will get a litle further in our walk with Jesus. I am sure you all are wondering how I plan to accomplish this. Well, the truth is that I will post daily inspirational comments, based on scriptures from the Bible. Submit to you all weekly presentations, which have already been going forth on my facebook page. As well as, post discussion topics that should allow for some vigorous online conversations, that I pray would move others to read, study, and meditate upon the Word of God more than they may be doing at this time. Oh what a wonderful time that will be had by all who participate.
I thank you all, again. Please get prepared for what is sure to be another way for God to receive the Praise and Glory that is all His, and for those that join in to receive even more blessings in their lives. Let's get ready!!!!!
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyt
I want to thank you for taking the time to come by my page and begin this portion of the journey with me. As I move forward in the desire to fulfill the will of God in my life, I pray that this blog will become an extension of Christ Jesus and all that He is doing for those who participate, and His reaching those that may not have had opportunity to meet Him.
There is no agenda, no other motives, and as the title states, 'It is all about fellowship'. So, as I move to bring nothing but that which will encourage you to know Christ Jesus, I ask that you sit for awhile, with me, and give feedback. That way we all will get a litle further in our walk with Jesus. I am sure you all are wondering how I plan to accomplish this. Well, the truth is that I will post daily inspirational comments, based on scriptures from the Bible. Submit to you all weekly presentations, which have already been going forth on my facebook page. As well as, post discussion topics that should allow for some vigorous online conversations, that I pray would move others to read, study, and meditate upon the Word of God more than they may be doing at this time. Oh what a wonderful time that will be had by all who participate.
I thank you all, again. Please get prepared for what is sure to be another way for God to receive the Praise and Glory that is all His, and for those that join in to receive even more blessings in their lives. Let's get ready!!!!!
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyt
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