1 Corinthians 2;12-15 (KJV)
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
First thing we need to do, off the top, is to make sure that today's encouragement doesn't get misunderstood. So,.... take a minute to go and look in the mirror. Then ask yourself, "What is it I am suppose to be looking at?"
I would dare to say that the answer that you receive back will bring the clarity needed for you to continue in today's encouragement.
What is wisdom? How do you begin to obtain it? Where, exactly, can it be found? These questions are probably in your mouths because of the fact that you are, now, confronted with the biggest question of yourself. Am I the spiritual or the natural man? Honestly, I cannot answer that but if you continue to search out God's wisdom and knowledge, you WILL find that answer. Again, leading to the next question: If I am the natural man, will I continue in my foolish ways?
Understand Brothers and Sisters, even those ponderings are just a little too much for some individuals. To sit and bring yourself into question! "Why should I question myself and all my actions?" says the man/woman who doesn't think of themselves as 'a bad' person. That is because of their level of discernment. Let's look at this from the original, Greek, meaning.
Discern: in the Greek- anakrino (an-ak-ree'-no); this is a compound word that means to scrutinize, (by implication) investigate, interrogate, determine.
The two base words ana (an-ah') and krino (kree'-no) indicate the exact meaning to be to decide repeatedly, or to decide with great intensity.
Can you see why it is the question asked now? Because of the level of decision making. Paul writes that the natural man cannot discern those things of God, that this natural man calls them foolishness, because he doesn't possess the level of decision making to reach for God's wisdom. When those of us who are actively, constantly, willingly, reaching for God and his wisdom; through Christ Jesus, are able to connect to that particular level of decision making: no matter how far the connection is from us, we touch his wisdom: knowing that it brings about an outcome, which manifests itself in our lives, and doesn't quickly fade away.
That is why the scripture states, in verse 15, But he that is spiritual judgeth all things. It is due to the fact that not only can we, those who have received the Holy Spirit; God, can search for what is God's wisdom but we can determine, because it ain't hard to figure out, those actions, speech, and thoughts of the natural man as well. Again, that is why the backside of verse 15 states, yet he himself is judged of no man. Understand? The natural man WILL NOT reach for that level of decision making, therefore the spiritual man is foolish to him; he cannot judge (discern) the spiritual man.
This encouragement is written such manner to make you, no force you, back into the question at the top. Are you the natural or the spiritual man? Remember, there is a place you can get to in order to find the correct answer. Will you desire to reach for it?
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Memberrrrrr? You memberrrrrr........
Luke 22;14-20 (KJV)
And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.
And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer:
For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves:
For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.
And he took bread, and gave thanks, and broke it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
In the comment box, below, someone please tell me the word used to trigger our memory of this particular passover dinner that commemerates the speech Jesus made as he sat at this dinner table with these men?
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.
I am, sometimes, so amazed at the way we, humans, will be so quick to gather, catagorize, store, and maintain the history of some of the most trivial items that occurred within our lives. Now, the sacrifice of any man's life should be memorialized. Therefore, Memorial Day is a highly respected day, and probably even more respected (especially by myself) because of somes service to this country through the Military. What makes me lead in with the first statement is that I know for every person who is listing the word I asked for, in the comment box, there are two to three that will struggle with the remembrance of that word. I mean they will struggle to remember before they quickly scroll down to see the word.
As the small bit of information states, which I copied off of one of several Memorial Day history websites, the origins are not quite conclusive. There are several different places which lay claim to being the "true" birthplace of the day of observance. There is even a song that recognizes the pre-exsistense of the actual start of the day. These factoids had to be researched, once they surfaced, and then they were held in some respect in order to be maintained to this very day. That way any person with a desire to find out, "Why do we have a Memorial Day?" can actually locate the reason.
But, what makes this morning's encouragement even more fantabulous (a word I learned from my cousin Qui-Shayne)?
It is that we, those who are followers of Christ Jesus, have a word to honor the sacrifice he made for those individuals God desired to bring back to right relationship with him. We have a book (The Bible) that has the origins of this action Christ took upon himself, and it let's us know that Christ, himself, gave reason why we SHOULD remember. There is not any disputes over the original place where Christ's actions calls into remembrance the sacrifice of his life. It is Calvery. There are songs also, that seal up the memory of why we are to honor Christ; for his sacrifice. 'I know it was the blood for me. One day when I was lost, he died upon the cross. I know it was the blood for me.' Again, with this evidence that can easily be accessed, we shouldn't have a difficult time remembering that word which commemorates Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Especially if we are obedient in following the very thing he told us to do TO REMEMBER.
What is even more visible about this that I type out: that will be permanant within cyberspace, just as the bit of Memorial Day history I located? It is given based on the research of a man. Don't let it slide by you!!! Give that minute to settle..... The whole pomp and circumstances of this day is due to the keeping of that history by man, and we celebrate that history only because it is held onto by man. Is it starting to become clear yet?....
This sacrifice of Christ Jesus HAPPENED!!!! It was recorded, catagorized, and stored for us to have. Yet, the whole of our country doesn't celebrate with a day of remembrace. If you go and research the actual activities we associate with Easter, you will find those activities have NOTHING to do with Christ's crucifiction, death, burial, or Resurrection. Just as you have still not, probably, remembered the word that I asked for you to leave in the comment box. Those of us who remember, even if the word does not come quickly to our remembrance, know that those events happened. We have no doubt that Christ Jesus walked, taught, and performed miracles. We know this, have no doubt about it because it is left for us to read about (The Bible). We can find commemtaries, thesis, letters, speechs, and written recordings of witnesses accounts. How then does this word not get lodged into, ingrained within, the mind of an entire country's population?
1 Corinthians 11;23-26 (KJV)
For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:
And when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.
After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.
For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.
And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer:
For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves:
For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.
And he took bread, and gave thanks, and broke it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
In the comment box, below, someone please tell me the word used to trigger our memory of this particular passover dinner that commemerates the speech Jesus made as he sat at this dinner table with these men?
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.
I am, sometimes, so amazed at the way we, humans, will be so quick to gather, catagorize, store, and maintain the history of some of the most trivial items that occurred within our lives. Now, the sacrifice of any man's life should be memorialized. Therefore, Memorial Day is a highly respected day, and probably even more respected (especially by myself) because of somes service to this country through the Military. What makes me lead in with the first statement is that I know for every person who is listing the word I asked for, in the comment box, there are two to three that will struggle with the remembrance of that word. I mean they will struggle to remember before they quickly scroll down to see the word.
As the small bit of information states, which I copied off of one of several Memorial Day history websites, the origins are not quite conclusive. There are several different places which lay claim to being the "true" birthplace of the day of observance. There is even a song that recognizes the pre-exsistense of the actual start of the day. These factoids had to be researched, once they surfaced, and then they were held in some respect in order to be maintained to this very day. That way any person with a desire to find out, "Why do we have a Memorial Day?" can actually locate the reason.
But, what makes this morning's encouragement even more fantabulous (a word I learned from my cousin Qui-Shayne)?
It is that we, those who are followers of Christ Jesus, have a word to honor the sacrifice he made for those individuals God desired to bring back to right relationship with him. We have a book (The Bible) that has the origins of this action Christ took upon himself, and it let's us know that Christ, himself, gave reason why we SHOULD remember. There is not any disputes over the original place where Christ's actions calls into remembrance the sacrifice of his life. It is Calvery. There are songs also, that seal up the memory of why we are to honor Christ; for his sacrifice. 'I know it was the blood for me. One day when I was lost, he died upon the cross. I know it was the blood for me.' Again, with this evidence that can easily be accessed, we shouldn't have a difficult time remembering that word which commemorates Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Especially if we are obedient in following the very thing he told us to do TO REMEMBER.
What is even more visible about this that I type out: that will be permanant within cyberspace, just as the bit of Memorial Day history I located? It is given based on the research of a man. Don't let it slide by you!!! Give that minute to settle..... The whole pomp and circumstances of this day is due to the keeping of that history by man, and we celebrate that history only because it is held onto by man. Is it starting to become clear yet?....
This sacrifice of Christ Jesus HAPPENED!!!! It was recorded, catagorized, and stored for us to have. Yet, the whole of our country doesn't celebrate with a day of remembrace. If you go and research the actual activities we associate with Easter, you will find those activities have NOTHING to do with Christ's crucifiction, death, burial, or Resurrection. Just as you have still not, probably, remembered the word that I asked for you to leave in the comment box. Those of us who remember, even if the word does not come quickly to our remembrance, know that those events happened. We have no doubt that Christ Jesus walked, taught, and performed miracles. We know this, have no doubt about it because it is left for us to read about (The Bible). We can find commemtaries, thesis, letters, speechs, and written recordings of witnesses accounts. How then does this word not get lodged into, ingrained within, the mind of an entire country's population?
1 Corinthians 11;23-26 (KJV)
For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:
And when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.
After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.
For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Saturday, May 28, 2011
This Is So Necessary
Good morning Brothers,
Today I am going to leave you with the words of an author, who's book I feel every man (18 and over) should be reading. The reason I bring these words to you on this day is because there are certain actions we, men, still commit which are seriously detrimental to positioning within the minds of our women, children, community, and most of all, our Creator; God. Prayerfully, after reading this you will go and purchase the book and continue to read about how we, men, can overcome such deteriorating thoughts, speech, and actions.
To develop a clearer idea of what "released manhood" looks like, it might be helpful first to take a brief look at an *inauthentic man*, someone whose manly energy remains dormant or is expressed in corrupted form.
INAUTHENTIC MEN
If you are in relationship with an unmanly man, you likely will experience him as:
controlling (impersonally powerful)
destructive (or dangerous)
selfish (committed, above all else, to feeling a certain way about himself)
An unmanly man controls conversations; he manipulates family and friends; he arranges his life to avoid whatever he is not sure he can handle. He trusts no one, not deeply. He works hard to maneuver himself into a favorable light, into a position where he comes out on top or at least unchallenged. He is not a good listener. He rarely asks meaningful questions, preferring either to offer opinions or remain quiet. No one feels pursued by him except when their friendship might work to his advantage. When he does take an interest in you, it has the feel of a car salesman asking to see a picture of your family.
Unmanly men are controlling, destructive, and selfish. But these traits describe only what is visible to others, what people feel in his presence. Scratch beneth the surface (sometimes a thick one) and you will discover that there is, supporting these weeds, a root system that has a stubborn life of its own. In depths that usually remain unexplored, unmanly men feel powerless beneath their determination to control; a hateful rage empowers their destructiveness; and they are terrified to a degree that makes selfishness seem their only hope for survival.
MANLY MEN
An authentic man is very different. When the energy God has placed within a man is released,
1. the man knows he is strong, not powerless. Strong men take the initiative, even when they're not sure what to do. Their calling to reflect God in their manner of relating compels them more than their hope for power or their fear of impotence. A manly man is not an aggressive man; he is an ACTIVE MAN, involved in offering quality relationships to others, more committed to developing a strength that others can enjoy than to achieving for himself a sense of power and control.
2. The man experiences a state of being less angry, less easily threatened. Some call it peace. For him the phrase "more than a conqueror" means something, even during life's hard moments. A manly man's pain doesn't interfere with his feeling the plight of others, even when their troubles are less severe than his. He has the courage to face his experience honestly. He therefore feels the sadness of living in a fallen world, and the loneliness of living in imperfect community.
Manly men are enticed by the joys of freedom, by the unhindered chance to follow the call of manhood. A manly man is not addicted; he treats his body roughly, to avoid coming under a foreign power. He fights hard against his relentless desire for pleasure. He moves according to a plan. He is a PURPOSEFUL MAN who knows what he's about and what he can contribute to the purpose for which he is living.
One of the great tragedies of our day is that so many men are walking a path that they think leads to the joys of legitimate masculinity. It may be many years before those moving in wrong directions realize that the path they have been following releases masculine energy that is more corrupt than genuine, and that this path leaves them even more powerless, bitter, and terrified.
This is an excerpt taken from the book 'The Silence of Adam' written by Dr. Larry Crabb
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Today I am going to leave you with the words of an author, who's book I feel every man (18 and over) should be reading. The reason I bring these words to you on this day is because there are certain actions we, men, still commit which are seriously detrimental to positioning within the minds of our women, children, community, and most of all, our Creator; God. Prayerfully, after reading this you will go and purchase the book and continue to read about how we, men, can overcome such deteriorating thoughts, speech, and actions.
To develop a clearer idea of what "released manhood" looks like, it might be helpful first to take a brief look at an *inauthentic man*, someone whose manly energy remains dormant or is expressed in corrupted form.
INAUTHENTIC MEN
If you are in relationship with an unmanly man, you likely will experience him as:
controlling (impersonally powerful)
destructive (or dangerous)
selfish (committed, above all else, to feeling a certain way about himself)
An unmanly man controls conversations; he manipulates family and friends; he arranges his life to avoid whatever he is not sure he can handle. He trusts no one, not deeply. He works hard to maneuver himself into a favorable light, into a position where he comes out on top or at least unchallenged. He is not a good listener. He rarely asks meaningful questions, preferring either to offer opinions or remain quiet. No one feels pursued by him except when their friendship might work to his advantage. When he does take an interest in you, it has the feel of a car salesman asking to see a picture of your family.
Unmanly men are controlling, destructive, and selfish. But these traits describe only what is visible to others, what people feel in his presence. Scratch beneth the surface (sometimes a thick one) and you will discover that there is, supporting these weeds, a root system that has a stubborn life of its own. In depths that usually remain unexplored, unmanly men feel powerless beneath their determination to control; a hateful rage empowers their destructiveness; and they are terrified to a degree that makes selfishness seem their only hope for survival.
MANLY MEN
An authentic man is very different. When the energy God has placed within a man is released,
1. the man knows he is strong, not powerless. Strong men take the initiative, even when they're not sure what to do. Their calling to reflect God in their manner of relating compels them more than their hope for power or their fear of impotence. A manly man is not an aggressive man; he is an ACTIVE MAN, involved in offering quality relationships to others, more committed to developing a strength that others can enjoy than to achieving for himself a sense of power and control.
2. The man experiences a state of being less angry, less easily threatened. Some call it peace. For him the phrase "more than a conqueror" means something, even during life's hard moments. A manly man's pain doesn't interfere with his feeling the plight of others, even when their troubles are less severe than his. He has the courage to face his experience honestly. He therefore feels the sadness of living in a fallen world, and the loneliness of living in imperfect community.
Manly men are enticed by the joys of freedom, by the unhindered chance to follow the call of manhood. A manly man is not addicted; he treats his body roughly, to avoid coming under a foreign power. He fights hard against his relentless desire for pleasure. He moves according to a plan. He is a PURPOSEFUL MAN who knows what he's about and what he can contribute to the purpose for which he is living.
One of the great tragedies of our day is that so many men are walking a path that they think leads to the joys of legitimate masculinity. It may be many years before those moving in wrong directions realize that the path they have been following releases masculine energy that is more corrupt than genuine, and that this path leaves them even more powerless, bitter, and terrified.
This is an excerpt taken from the book 'The Silence of Adam' written by Dr. Larry Crabb
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Slowing Down the Morning Grind
James 1;12-18 (KJV)
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Do not err, my beloved brethren.
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
In the book 'The Imitation of Christ', Thomas A. Kempis writes, "The man who only avoids the outward occasions of evil, but fails to uproot it in himself, will gain little advantage. Indeed, temptations will return upon him the sooner, and he will find himself in a worse state than before. Little by little and by patient endurance you will overcome them by God's help, better than by your own violence and importunity. Seek regular advice in temptation, and never deal harshly with those who are tempted, but give them such encouragement as you would value yourself."
So, do you find yourself sitting still some days, gripping the chair you may be seated in, doing your best to convince yourself that your legs do not work, destroying the many thoughts that would enter into your mind, and repeating over and over the one scripture that you partially remember, all in an effort to keep yourself from doing what it is you know you are to not be doing? Yeah, its a very long question because you know you love to give the very long answer for why you ended up doing it. Hey, this not an indictment, no. This is a Brova standing next to you, holding your hand, because my active conversation with you is assisting me with not making that certain phone call this morning, to set up that mid evening redevouz, so I can fulfill the lustful desire that doesn't seem to want to dislodge itself from me.
This is one of them moments where the outside, passer-by, gets to view the antics of the people in the storefront window as they do their thing, when setting up the display. Oh Yes! We love to put on display the very best show! Never allowing those to circle around that mudpuddle of ours labeled, 'The Struggle'. We are some notorious creatures with our slight-of-hand trickery. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!
We enjoy, probably even fall in love with, how those around us will walk up to us and give some of the best spiritual compliments, all the while when Tuesday (we figure its far enough away from Sunday) rolls around we are "Back on Our Grind!!!"
Today's encouragement is actually the chopped and screwed version of those scriptures. How? Because what you are getting to witness is how Yer Brova, on some days, has to speak to the flesh. I DID wake up this morning with a "feeling". LOL I so enjoy being a solidly identifiable child of God. It makes me HAVE TO relearn new words that are sanitized, yet still allows the Lord to work within the life of those that would read or hear me speak them. "Feeling"!!! And, it is that feeling which I could not allow to rule me. What was necessary about making it today's encouragement for you, revealing that I am going through a bout of lustful temptation, is so that you; My Brother and Sister, will be able to have some type of tangible example for yourself: when you may find yourself at the entryway of tempation. Stick to the scriptures first and foremost. Then allow for this one fellow traveller's story to give a sort of highlight to how you may avoid the temptation.
The word is very clear. This has stages, and when you cross the first stage of it, you WILL fall all the way down through all the other stages. That is why it is said to us at the onset the man that endureth (to actively keep yourself in place; to not move: hold yourself still) IS Blessed, and WILL receive the crown of life. I, for one, am not about to throw away all of what my Father; God has for me behind some probably wearing a weave, only thinking about herself, more than likely to cause me headache, wouldn't cause she couldn't cook for me, can't hold down intelligent conversation on any subject, piece of coochie!!!!! Hallelujah! I got it out !!!!
My ability to crack myself up is what helps with searching out that patience needed to access the endurance, which will snap the line pulling me towards the lust that I awakened with this morning. These are the times, Brothers and Sisters, when we are given opportunity to see these scriptures come to life. Also, this a time when we are allowed to see it from the front side; Victory, instead of from the backside; reassurance of comfort, love, and acceptance after the fall. Oh how good is our God!!!! He is so WORTHY!!!! Look at how he moves!!! He has taken me, his tool, to get to you. My morning pings and pangs are said to be written out in this blog and then, there you are reading them, whether it be day or night, but this is Christ Jesus alerting you to the fact that you do not have to "fall down" today. Stay right there, in that space you are in, to resist that temptation. To patiently endure that situation you know you are to not be in. To keep your hand off that cell phone and not call that person.
WOW!!!!! I so Love my Lord!!!! I also hope that you, my Brother and Sister, understand that when you DO sit and wait on the Lord, he WILL show up with what is exactly needed for you to have VICTORY!!!!! Now, let me see what's for breakfast.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Do not err, my beloved brethren.
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
In the book 'The Imitation of Christ', Thomas A. Kempis writes, "The man who only avoids the outward occasions of evil, but fails to uproot it in himself, will gain little advantage. Indeed, temptations will return upon him the sooner, and he will find himself in a worse state than before. Little by little and by patient endurance you will overcome them by God's help, better than by your own violence and importunity. Seek regular advice in temptation, and never deal harshly with those who are tempted, but give them such encouragement as you would value yourself."
So, do you find yourself sitting still some days, gripping the chair you may be seated in, doing your best to convince yourself that your legs do not work, destroying the many thoughts that would enter into your mind, and repeating over and over the one scripture that you partially remember, all in an effort to keep yourself from doing what it is you know you are to not be doing? Yeah, its a very long question because you know you love to give the very long answer for why you ended up doing it. Hey, this not an indictment, no. This is a Brova standing next to you, holding your hand, because my active conversation with you is assisting me with not making that certain phone call this morning, to set up that mid evening redevouz, so I can fulfill the lustful desire that doesn't seem to want to dislodge itself from me.
This is one of them moments where the outside, passer-by, gets to view the antics of the people in the storefront window as they do their thing, when setting up the display. Oh Yes! We love to put on display the very best show! Never allowing those to circle around that mudpuddle of ours labeled, 'The Struggle'. We are some notorious creatures with our slight-of-hand trickery. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!
We enjoy, probably even fall in love with, how those around us will walk up to us and give some of the best spiritual compliments, all the while when Tuesday (we figure its far enough away from Sunday) rolls around we are "Back on Our Grind!!!"
Today's encouragement is actually the chopped and screwed version of those scriptures. How? Because what you are getting to witness is how Yer Brova, on some days, has to speak to the flesh. I DID wake up this morning with a "feeling". LOL I so enjoy being a solidly identifiable child of God. It makes me HAVE TO relearn new words that are sanitized, yet still allows the Lord to work within the life of those that would read or hear me speak them. "Feeling"!!! And, it is that feeling which I could not allow to rule me. What was necessary about making it today's encouragement for you, revealing that I am going through a bout of lustful temptation, is so that you; My Brother and Sister, will be able to have some type of tangible example for yourself: when you may find yourself at the entryway of tempation. Stick to the scriptures first and foremost. Then allow for this one fellow traveller's story to give a sort of highlight to how you may avoid the temptation.
The word is very clear. This has stages, and when you cross the first stage of it, you WILL fall all the way down through all the other stages. That is why it is said to us at the onset the man that endureth (to actively keep yourself in place; to not move: hold yourself still) IS Blessed, and WILL receive the crown of life. I, for one, am not about to throw away all of what my Father; God has for me behind some probably wearing a weave, only thinking about herself, more than likely to cause me headache, wouldn't cause she couldn't cook for me, can't hold down intelligent conversation on any subject, piece of coochie!!!!! Hallelujah! I got it out !!!!
My ability to crack myself up is what helps with searching out that patience needed to access the endurance, which will snap the line pulling me towards the lust that I awakened with this morning. These are the times, Brothers and Sisters, when we are given opportunity to see these scriptures come to life. Also, this a time when we are allowed to see it from the front side; Victory, instead of from the backside; reassurance of comfort, love, and acceptance after the fall. Oh how good is our God!!!! He is so WORTHY!!!! Look at how he moves!!! He has taken me, his tool, to get to you. My morning pings and pangs are said to be written out in this blog and then, there you are reading them, whether it be day or night, but this is Christ Jesus alerting you to the fact that you do not have to "fall down" today. Stay right there, in that space you are in, to resist that temptation. To patiently endure that situation you know you are to not be in. To keep your hand off that cell phone and not call that person.
WOW!!!!! I so Love my Lord!!!! I also hope that you, my Brother and Sister, understand that when you DO sit and wait on the Lord, he WILL show up with what is exactly needed for you to have VICTORY!!!!! Now, let me see what's for breakfast.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
I Have Told You Already (And You Wouldn't Litsen) Part IV
John 9;1-41 (KJV)
I pray that we all are still together while on this journey of hearing all that Christ has for us through the story of this former blind man. The question came up yesterday, by way of text message, as to my calling him 'the former' blind man, "Why do you refer to him in such manner?"
The answer is: Once you experience the healing/conversion of Christ Jesus, you are no longer bound by that which you have been released from. If you quickly, we do not want to get off track, go over to Romans 5;19-6;2 and read, you will understand that most of what we (yes, me too) deal with after receiving salvation, and being filled with the Holy Spirit is nothing more than our slowness to REALIZE that we are no longer like who we were before. This man WAS blind! He is no longer in that state. I can be referred to, by those who encounter me, as the 'former' drug dealer, or that man that USED TO misuse and talk harshly to women. Prayerfully this answers the question. On to today's presentation.
THE ASSURANCE PROVIDED (FOR YOUR ETERNAL LIFE)
This section of our mini-series will bring with it the joy most of us already know and walk with on a daily basis. Which is, after being shown that most WILL fail you, the reassurance of your experience with Christ Jesus will push you into the constant assurance that you are no longer going to be left by yourself. No longer will you have to wrestle with self-doubt, dibilitating depression. Rocky relationships that lower your self-esteem, or deal with the life consuming effects of family drama. Now that you have the knowledge, "Jesus has healed me of all that stuff", you can freely and boldly walk oit the rest of your days no matter what comes.
v24-27
Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God praise: we know that this man is a sinner.
He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.
Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes?
He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples?
Can you see this man's posture during this exchange with these Pharisees? I ask based on the obvious knowledge we have aboit him up unto this point. He has been abandoned by friends and family, questioned by a council of men who are more interested in being elevated themselves, more than God, and on top of all of this he has had to defend the one and only "good" thing to happen to him in whole entire life. How, my fellow child of God, do you think he stood in front of these men speaking? That's right: BODLY!!! He is now understanding that all he has in his life is that healing by Jesus. And, no one is about to make him recant.
Of course we also see that he is now starting to see something a bit off about these men who call themselves judging the matter. He sees that they are not holding any of the information, or they are just that much more interested in Jesus; to become his disciples.
v28-29
Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses' disciples.
We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is.
Wow! When you step on the toes of those who have 'position' in their mind.... This shouldn't be too difficult to see. This council of men; men who are now pompous in their mind; proud men that hold an active belief that they are to not be questioned, have now been offended and must not allow the questioning to go forth. Oh I can feel their indignation towards this 'used to be' blind begger. This little, insignifigant, speed bump, within the town's marketplace. You can believe that these men were quite up in arms about this puny, mite of a man bringing into question their allegiance to the Law. What is even more ironic about this matter is that these men set out to "grill" the former blind man until he denied Jesus, but as we see these very same men are now standing the same position. Again, when you encounter Christ Jesus, you will be taken care of. Even your enemies will find themselves changing their viewpoint of who you are in their eyesight.
These next verses should show us that once we receive our healing/conversion of Christ Jesus that it wasn't just for us to walk about saying, "Look, I have been healed!"
I ask that you pay close attention to what this former blind man expresses, and then really grasp at it based on these Pharisees response.
v30-34
The man answered and said unto them, Why herein a marvelous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes.
Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshiper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.
Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind.
If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.
They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
Isn't it gloriois to know that this man had opportunity to show that it was only his physical eyes that Christ had to regenerate?!?! What blows my mind is that to a degree, I have to think, based on this former blind man's knowledge, that he was probably not put out his parents house, nor was he ever outside the teachings of these same Pharisees. My thought is because this former blind man expressed exactly what the Pharisees should have been debating from the moment of his arrival before them. What his testimony did was bring to light, to any who would also be present during this exchange: and, yes, there were others present, that the Pharisees had another agenda by which they were operating. Doesn't this sound familiar to some you all? You have been brought out in the open, by those who are acknowledged as being more learned, experienced, capable, or just plain have more than you do, and when given opportunity to speak or act you show that you ain't no cromagnon. But, that is when these individuals jump up and call into question your ability. You must have gotten a copy of that report?! How did you find out what was on the test?! Did someone in this department show you how to do this?! How dare you upstage me in my own area of expertise?!
Now, if the flipside of this is true; this former blind man was without knowledge of the Law, or didn't have opportunity to hear it being taught, and was apart from his family for a considerable amount of time, then imagine..... well, you should be SHOUTIN' HALLELUJAH behind that anyway. LOL It cannot be said enough that when we have our encointer with Christ Jesus, he does place within us a desire. A desire to learn of him, learn from him, and share that learning. What also becomes very clear is the motives of those around us who find our new position to be a threat to their position (they know time is about up), that it may be time for them to move aside or give over. Rather than embrace this, they hiss at you like a snake and then take on the role of angry animal to snarl, paw, and tear away at you just to keep control of their bit of territory.
What this former blind man, and we also, can gather from this is that the boldness which is placed within us, after experiencing Christ Jesus, is present for reason and that WILL cause some to get a bit 'out of place', but that is none of our concern. Allow Christ to handle all of that, just like you must allow him to handle all of the other parts of your life now that you have had your blindness taken off of you. Now that you see clearly, it is time to see your way to walking with Christ. He will make sure to give you all that which is necessary for you. You will not be left alone, to try and figure out how to find him again, or hope that one of his disciples might come pass you so that you can find out how to get back to him. No, this is not what will happen. From this point forward, Christ knows about you: about all you have had to endure just to maintain your new position within him. He sees all of that and is moving for you and constantly moving you closer to his image.
v35-39
Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?
He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?
And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.
And he said, Lord I believe. And he worshiped him.
And Jesus said, For judgement I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
I pray that we all are still together while on this journey of hearing all that Christ has for us through the story of this former blind man. The question came up yesterday, by way of text message, as to my calling him 'the former' blind man, "Why do you refer to him in such manner?"
The answer is: Once you experience the healing/conversion of Christ Jesus, you are no longer bound by that which you have been released from. If you quickly, we do not want to get off track, go over to Romans 5;19-6;2 and read, you will understand that most of what we (yes, me too) deal with after receiving salvation, and being filled with the Holy Spirit is nothing more than our slowness to REALIZE that we are no longer like who we were before. This man WAS blind! He is no longer in that state. I can be referred to, by those who encounter me, as the 'former' drug dealer, or that man that USED TO misuse and talk harshly to women. Prayerfully this answers the question. On to today's presentation.
THE ASSURANCE PROVIDED (FOR YOUR ETERNAL LIFE)
This section of our mini-series will bring with it the joy most of us already know and walk with on a daily basis. Which is, after being shown that most WILL fail you, the reassurance of your experience with Christ Jesus will push you into the constant assurance that you are no longer going to be left by yourself. No longer will you have to wrestle with self-doubt, dibilitating depression. Rocky relationships that lower your self-esteem, or deal with the life consuming effects of family drama. Now that you have the knowledge, "Jesus has healed me of all that stuff", you can freely and boldly walk oit the rest of your days no matter what comes.
v24-27
Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God praise: we know that this man is a sinner.
He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.
Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes?
He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples?
Can you see this man's posture during this exchange with these Pharisees? I ask based on the obvious knowledge we have aboit him up unto this point. He has been abandoned by friends and family, questioned by a council of men who are more interested in being elevated themselves, more than God, and on top of all of this he has had to defend the one and only "good" thing to happen to him in whole entire life. How, my fellow child of God, do you think he stood in front of these men speaking? That's right: BODLY!!! He is now understanding that all he has in his life is that healing by Jesus. And, no one is about to make him recant.
Of course we also see that he is now starting to see something a bit off about these men who call themselves judging the matter. He sees that they are not holding any of the information, or they are just that much more interested in Jesus; to become his disciples.
v28-29
Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses' disciples.
We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is.
Wow! When you step on the toes of those who have 'position' in their mind.... This shouldn't be too difficult to see. This council of men; men who are now pompous in their mind; proud men that hold an active belief that they are to not be questioned, have now been offended and must not allow the questioning to go forth. Oh I can feel their indignation towards this 'used to be' blind begger. This little, insignifigant, speed bump, within the town's marketplace. You can believe that these men were quite up in arms about this puny, mite of a man bringing into question their allegiance to the Law. What is even more ironic about this matter is that these men set out to "grill" the former blind man until he denied Jesus, but as we see these very same men are now standing the same position. Again, when you encounter Christ Jesus, you will be taken care of. Even your enemies will find themselves changing their viewpoint of who you are in their eyesight.
These next verses should show us that once we receive our healing/conversion of Christ Jesus that it wasn't just for us to walk about saying, "Look, I have been healed!"
I ask that you pay close attention to what this former blind man expresses, and then really grasp at it based on these Pharisees response.
v30-34
The man answered and said unto them, Why herein a marvelous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes.
Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshiper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.
Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind.
If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.
They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
Isn't it gloriois to know that this man had opportunity to show that it was only his physical eyes that Christ had to regenerate?!?! What blows my mind is that to a degree, I have to think, based on this former blind man's knowledge, that he was probably not put out his parents house, nor was he ever outside the teachings of these same Pharisees. My thought is because this former blind man expressed exactly what the Pharisees should have been debating from the moment of his arrival before them. What his testimony did was bring to light, to any who would also be present during this exchange: and, yes, there were others present, that the Pharisees had another agenda by which they were operating. Doesn't this sound familiar to some you all? You have been brought out in the open, by those who are acknowledged as being more learned, experienced, capable, or just plain have more than you do, and when given opportunity to speak or act you show that you ain't no cromagnon. But, that is when these individuals jump up and call into question your ability. You must have gotten a copy of that report?! How did you find out what was on the test?! Did someone in this department show you how to do this?! How dare you upstage me in my own area of expertise?!
Now, if the flipside of this is true; this former blind man was without knowledge of the Law, or didn't have opportunity to hear it being taught, and was apart from his family for a considerable amount of time, then imagine..... well, you should be SHOUTIN' HALLELUJAH behind that anyway. LOL It cannot be said enough that when we have our encointer with Christ Jesus, he does place within us a desire. A desire to learn of him, learn from him, and share that learning. What also becomes very clear is the motives of those around us who find our new position to be a threat to their position (they know time is about up), that it may be time for them to move aside or give over. Rather than embrace this, they hiss at you like a snake and then take on the role of angry animal to snarl, paw, and tear away at you just to keep control of their bit of territory.
What this former blind man, and we also, can gather from this is that the boldness which is placed within us, after experiencing Christ Jesus, is present for reason and that WILL cause some to get a bit 'out of place', but that is none of our concern. Allow Christ to handle all of that, just like you must allow him to handle all of the other parts of your life now that you have had your blindness taken off of you. Now that you see clearly, it is time to see your way to walking with Christ. He will make sure to give you all that which is necessary for you. You will not be left alone, to try and figure out how to find him again, or hope that one of his disciples might come pass you so that you can find out how to get back to him. No, this is not what will happen. From this point forward, Christ knows about you: about all you have had to endure just to maintain your new position within him. He sees all of that and is moving for you and constantly moving you closer to his image.
v35-39
Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?
He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?
And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.
And he said, Lord I believe. And he worshiped him.
And Jesus said, For judgement I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
I Have Told You Already (And You Wouldn't Litsen) Part III
John 9;1-41 (KJV)
I apologize that this next section is a day late. Remember Brothers and Sisters, laziness has no place within your life: especially your spiritual life. Nothing comes to a sleeping man but a nightmare.
Okay, back to the prensentation. Everyone still got there Bible? Good, let's jump right back into this former blind man's situation.
HOW YOUR LIFE CHANGES (HOW FRIENDS AND FAMILY TREAT YOU)
We left off with this man's friends bringing him before the Pharisees, more than likely due to their own anger, jealousy, and depression about the fact that he has received a great blessing from Christ Jesus and they didn't (not that they couldn't John 9;11-12). We, now, are going to deal with the issues that can arise within family once someone receives a momumental blessing. No need to waste time, let's go.
v18-23
But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight.
And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see?
His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:
But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.
These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.
***If you prone to easily crying or quickly getting emotional, you may want to grab some tissue***
I must address the obvious situation that is within this text. Either this former blind man didn't go home to tell his parents of his good news, or his parents put him out and he didn't feel the need to share with his parents the good news of his life altering blessing. Something occurred within this family that caused this man to not go to his parents (who are still living and knew he was blind from birth) with a joyous event that very well could have mended fences, or there was an event which occurred that cememnted in this man's mind the perception he couldn't go home with such joyous news. Either way, it is a tragedy.
Yet, we know of a family situation just like this one in the text, either we are friends with the outside individual or the family who has the person outside. Or, we ARE that former blind man; outside the family, maybe we sit in the house of the family wondering about that outside member. Like stated just a minute ago: its a tragedy.
First thing that I had to seek exact understanding on was the way the parents answered these Pharisees. Going back to the text, verse 20-21, I had said (based totally on how I was raised) this is a stand taken by parents who are defending their child; even if he didn't come share in such a joyous event with us: for whatever reason, we still are his parents and we will defend him to our deaths. Remember, this is me, Brova Stokes, thinking this upon reading it: before receiving any further understanding concerning the totality of this presentation. This former blind man's parents aren't defending this man, no. They are actually protecting themselves; they have no thought of what may become of their son. This is the harshness and coldness that will bring about the possible use of the tissue I said you may need.
Everybody didn't grow up with that carbon copy household of 'Leave It To Beaver' or 'The Cosby Show', but most of us did know the love and warmth of a parent (if not both parents). But, do not forget, there are some who do not know that love. They were abandoned, cast aside, thrown out, o just plain forgot about. Some are even walking around with the "right now" knowledge of a parent's admission that, "I should have gotten an abortion."
There is a saying which goes, 'No one can hurt you like family can.' Unfortunately, that is the ABSOLUTE truth within certain families. Parents out-right mistreatment, or abandonment of their own children. Kids total lack of respect for and towards their parents. Siblings desires to wage constant war with each other. It all had a beginning!!! Just like this family within the text. I can imagine it is the father speaking in verse 20 and the mother speaking in 21, all because of their secret conference we know about in verse 22. See these parents CARED MORE about there place within the synagogue (within the eyesight of that present society) than they did about their own child. It ain't enough that they go about their days, througout the marketplace and village, never checking on their son; who is blind, begging, without proper shelter, no healthcare, and most days hungry. Understand, within these days in the text, these people had to encounter their son quite often. They knew of his dibilitating state, and how it continued to go downward. What is so tragic? What made me cry a bit? Is when the understanding of the phrase, 'he is of age' was brought to me.
Among the Jewish people, culturally, a boy is thought of and celebrated as becoming a man when he reaches 13 years old. This is worldly known, even if the meaning is not known, by the festive celebration of Bar-Mitzvah. This is acknowledged as a boy' time to begin to take on the responsibility of his own religeous and cultural duties. Do you get where I am going with this? Is it clear the possible time period this boy could have been 'of age'? Yes, of course, we wouldn't desire to think of this former blind man's parents putting this man out when he was just at the entrance of his manhood. But, it could be true. We don't want to think about the family friend, who said they just couldn't take it any longer, and with much regret, placed that severely disabled child within that 'care facility'. We don't want to think about that brother or sister, who said this is the last time they was spending that portion of another month's rent just to bail this 15 year old boy out; again. What is even worse for us to think about is the family down the street, that we just found out about: who forced their pregnant daughter out the house. 16, pregnant, scared, and now saddled with the mindset that her condition is the sole reason for expulsion from this house, this family, and this love. 'No one can hurt you like family can'...
It could all end there, just as it could have for this former blind man. We, seriously, could be speaking about this as just another tragic cautionary tale about being family. How we can learn to avoid all the pitfalls and entanglements which cause such damaging rifts and tears at the fabric of family. But, what we are shown here is the base level reasoning for the euphoria this 'blind man' has at receiving his sight. Shall I dare say, his down-right, can't nobody do me like Jesus, can't nobody do me like the Lord, assurance by which he stands at present moment. All of his family drama was not layed out before us. Because we are introduced to him as a man, we cannot really say his age or for how long he was outside of his family. What we do know is all that we need to know. That is just like today's men and women, we meet, who have met Christ Jesus. We do not need to know all of their family business, no. What we need to know is their testimony. It is that which will propel us to our own place of Hallelujah, because we understand the joy of meeting Christ; wherever it was we had our meeting. LOL. I think of my meeting him. On a sidewalk: that could have easily been transformed into my living roon/bedroom/bathroom/balcony/driveway.... y'all understand.
This is what today's section of this mini-series is to be about. Understanding that, sometimes, family WILL FAIL you. Some are reading now, tissue in hand, because of that very fact. Wondering why you and your daddy just can't seem to get on the same page; when in the same room for more than 10 minutes. Why is is mama won't come by, and celebrate this newness of relationship I am having? What is that makes my brother want to fight me every d@mn time we show up to grandma's house? How is it my sister just cannot stop herself from flirting or sleeping with every man I bring around?
Could it be the answer to these questions could be resting in a place we all have had opportunity to witness? That place being the very exact place a man said, "He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see."
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
I apologize that this next section is a day late. Remember Brothers and Sisters, laziness has no place within your life: especially your spiritual life. Nothing comes to a sleeping man but a nightmare.
Okay, back to the prensentation. Everyone still got there Bible? Good, let's jump right back into this former blind man's situation.
HOW YOUR LIFE CHANGES (HOW FRIENDS AND FAMILY TREAT YOU)
We left off with this man's friends bringing him before the Pharisees, more than likely due to their own anger, jealousy, and depression about the fact that he has received a great blessing from Christ Jesus and they didn't (not that they couldn't John 9;11-12). We, now, are going to deal with the issues that can arise within family once someone receives a momumental blessing. No need to waste time, let's go.
v18-23
But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight.
And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see?
His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:
But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.
These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.
***If you prone to easily crying or quickly getting emotional, you may want to grab some tissue***
I must address the obvious situation that is within this text. Either this former blind man didn't go home to tell his parents of his good news, or his parents put him out and he didn't feel the need to share with his parents the good news of his life altering blessing. Something occurred within this family that caused this man to not go to his parents (who are still living and knew he was blind from birth) with a joyous event that very well could have mended fences, or there was an event which occurred that cememnted in this man's mind the perception he couldn't go home with such joyous news. Either way, it is a tragedy.
Yet, we know of a family situation just like this one in the text, either we are friends with the outside individual or the family who has the person outside. Or, we ARE that former blind man; outside the family, maybe we sit in the house of the family wondering about that outside member. Like stated just a minute ago: its a tragedy.
First thing that I had to seek exact understanding on was the way the parents answered these Pharisees. Going back to the text, verse 20-21, I had said (based totally on how I was raised) this is a stand taken by parents who are defending their child; even if he didn't come share in such a joyous event with us: for whatever reason, we still are his parents and we will defend him to our deaths. Remember, this is me, Brova Stokes, thinking this upon reading it: before receiving any further understanding concerning the totality of this presentation. This former blind man's parents aren't defending this man, no. They are actually protecting themselves; they have no thought of what may become of their son. This is the harshness and coldness that will bring about the possible use of the tissue I said you may need.
Everybody didn't grow up with that carbon copy household of 'Leave It To Beaver' or 'The Cosby Show', but most of us did know the love and warmth of a parent (if not both parents). But, do not forget, there are some who do not know that love. They were abandoned, cast aside, thrown out, o just plain forgot about. Some are even walking around with the "right now" knowledge of a parent's admission that, "I should have gotten an abortion."
There is a saying which goes, 'No one can hurt you like family can.' Unfortunately, that is the ABSOLUTE truth within certain families. Parents out-right mistreatment, or abandonment of their own children. Kids total lack of respect for and towards their parents. Siblings desires to wage constant war with each other. It all had a beginning!!! Just like this family within the text. I can imagine it is the father speaking in verse 20 and the mother speaking in 21, all because of their secret conference we know about in verse 22. See these parents CARED MORE about there place within the synagogue (within the eyesight of that present society) than they did about their own child. It ain't enough that they go about their days, througout the marketplace and village, never checking on their son; who is blind, begging, without proper shelter, no healthcare, and most days hungry. Understand, within these days in the text, these people had to encounter their son quite often. They knew of his dibilitating state, and how it continued to go downward. What is so tragic? What made me cry a bit? Is when the understanding of the phrase, 'he is of age' was brought to me.
Among the Jewish people, culturally, a boy is thought of and celebrated as becoming a man when he reaches 13 years old. This is worldly known, even if the meaning is not known, by the festive celebration of Bar-Mitzvah. This is acknowledged as a boy' time to begin to take on the responsibility of his own religeous and cultural duties. Do you get where I am going with this? Is it clear the possible time period this boy could have been 'of age'? Yes, of course, we wouldn't desire to think of this former blind man's parents putting this man out when he was just at the entrance of his manhood. But, it could be true. We don't want to think about the family friend, who said they just couldn't take it any longer, and with much regret, placed that severely disabled child within that 'care facility'. We don't want to think about that brother or sister, who said this is the last time they was spending that portion of another month's rent just to bail this 15 year old boy out; again. What is even worse for us to think about is the family down the street, that we just found out about: who forced their pregnant daughter out the house. 16, pregnant, scared, and now saddled with the mindset that her condition is the sole reason for expulsion from this house, this family, and this love. 'No one can hurt you like family can'...
It could all end there, just as it could have for this former blind man. We, seriously, could be speaking about this as just another tragic cautionary tale about being family. How we can learn to avoid all the pitfalls and entanglements which cause such damaging rifts and tears at the fabric of family. But, what we are shown here is the base level reasoning for the euphoria this 'blind man' has at receiving his sight. Shall I dare say, his down-right, can't nobody do me like Jesus, can't nobody do me like the Lord, assurance by which he stands at present moment. All of his family drama was not layed out before us. Because we are introduced to him as a man, we cannot really say his age or for how long he was outside of his family. What we do know is all that we need to know. That is just like today's men and women, we meet, who have met Christ Jesus. We do not need to know all of their family business, no. What we need to know is their testimony. It is that which will propel us to our own place of Hallelujah, because we understand the joy of meeting Christ; wherever it was we had our meeting. LOL. I think of my meeting him. On a sidewalk: that could have easily been transformed into my living roon/bedroom/bathroom/balcony/driveway.... y'all understand.
This is what today's section of this mini-series is to be about. Understanding that, sometimes, family WILL FAIL you. Some are reading now, tissue in hand, because of that very fact. Wondering why you and your daddy just can't seem to get on the same page; when in the same room for more than 10 minutes. Why is is mama won't come by, and celebrate this newness of relationship I am having? What is that makes my brother want to fight me every d@mn time we show up to grandma's house? How is it my sister just cannot stop herself from flirting or sleeping with every man I bring around?
Could it be the answer to these questions could be resting in a place we all have had opportunity to witness? That place being the very exact place a man said, "He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see."
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Saturday, May 21, 2011
I Have Told You Already (And You Wouldn't Litsen) Part II
John 9;1-41 (KJV)
Good Morning all. We are going to pick up this presentation at the place where most of you are more than likely dwelling at this present moment. Like the blind man, after his conversion/healing, you are now faced with the effects of your desire to tell everyone about this amazing transformation, as well as the man that is responsible for it; Christ Jesus.
How your life changes (How friends and family treat you): v8-34
*ONCE AGAIN, GRAB YOUR BIBLE*
Off the bat, we this man: who is now no longer blind; this is very momumental within his life, doing the very same exact thing we do, or did, once we have had our encounter with Christ Jesus. Going back around the same people that he was around when he was blind. Now, I will say this, there is nothing wrong with it because this is a newness in YOUR LIFE that you desire to share and who better than those that knew about you when you were the way you used to be; blind, sad, depressed, unmotivated, and beatdown in spirit.
v8-14
The neighbors therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and begged?
Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he.
Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened?
He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and annointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.
Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not.
They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind.
And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made clay, and opened his eyes.
Do you see what happened to this man, now that he has been set in a new place in bis life and went back around those he used to hang out with? Can you make the connection to the sometime hiccups that occur when you attempt, with honest love in your heart, to go back to Mo Mo's crib, or Lil' Rough's place? Understand the difficulty this man faced, just as you faced, when attempting to share this good news about how a man named Jesus has done such a miracle in your life?
Let's grasp at one thing which needs to be said, "To go back to who you are familiar with, especially after such a great experience as receiving Salvation, is not a crime. But, you must go back with the knowledge that it was ONLY you who has received."
Besides, if we look back at the text, we will see the immediate similarities between them back then and those we 'see' in today's time. Some didn't believe it was him. Some said it looked like him. Some wanted to know how it happend. (Oh, my personal favorite type of people) Some just bypassed his joy of reception altogether, and wanted to know where Jesus was for themselves. Not because they desired the gift given, no, they desired to see if Jesus would 'give them' what they wanted. Once this man; who is no longer blind, tells them he doesn't know where Jesus is at these so called friends take him before the authorities.
This is HATERISM at it's best. Y'all know about people, such as these. Them that see your joy behind something you have received, let alone you have received your salvation of Christ Jesus, and they mad because they 'cannot' HAVE IT. But, little do those people realize, just like these people in the text, that if they just exert a little effort to search they would find Jesus and receive what they need as well. No, they accuse you before them that they know have no desire to be affliated with Jesus.
Go back and look at verses 13 and 14. These are Jews.
They know the custom and traditions: to know that bringing this man before the highly respected, socially accepted, traditional authority; to accuse him of receiving a miracle credited to have been given by some second rate, say he a prophet. And, this all happens on the sabbath. The Sabbath!!!!! This is the HOLY day: the day that God, himself, rests!!! Oh, these people are making sure this dude regretted not telling them where to find this man named Jesus. I mean let's be honest, if the man would have known where Jesus was at do you seriously think that these individuals, just like those you used to hang around, would have ran so quickly to 'tell' on you? Y'all know the rule: NO SNITCHIN'!!!
Again, do you understand about those who you may have hung around before you received your 'change' in life, position, stature: on the job, within the community, a marriage, or however you are now distinguished apart from that group? Some will not enjoy it with you. They would rather see you suffer under the scrutiny of accusation than to cheer for you; having the understanding, themselves, that they can receive it as well, with a little effort or search.
So there he is, standing before the Pharisees, being asked about his new place within his life. Can you imagine this dude's mental state at this point? Oh, wait! Yes, you can. Because just like us, when we received our salvation and began to walk behind Christ Jesus, this dude hasn't had too much time to enjoy it... As a matter of fact, this is within the same day or two, maybe, and he is already defending himself just for receiving the gift. Remember, this dude didn't particularly think his prior condition was none too bad. And, I can guarentee you those who knew him back then, loved him being in the state that he was in.
v15
Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.
I can imagine this man, in his mind, saying, "Alright now, y'all getting on my nerves with this. Why is it you so concerned about me now? I have been blind all these years and not one of you finely robed, jewel encrusted, so and sos ever spoke to me as you went about your day. What do you really want with this Jesus, or with the knowledge of my receiving sight?"
Now if you notice, this man did not change his answer. He was standing before the most well respected men in the town. These Pharisees were the judge and jury of their day. Go back and study about them. You will see that to be brought before them, there would be some retribution for TRESPASSING THE LAW. But this former blind man stands before them and states the simple truth. Deal with it!!!!
v16 and 17
Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.
They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.
I hope you can see, clearly, what is occurring here at this moment: to link it to your life at present time, especially if you have just began your walk with Christ. These Pharisees only desire is to upon hold their interputation of the LAW. The Law according to Moses to be specific. But, what must be slide up in here is that st this time, most Pharisees were not living the Law themselves, nor applying it correctly. This is how the statement of the former blind man causes this division of thought within their group. Kinda like when you find yourself in front of that "accepted" form of authority and all you give is the truth of what happened to you. "Man, you remember I used to be out of control. Well, one day I gave my life to Christ Jesus, and he saved me. It's that simple"
That "accepted" authority always stands with that look of confusion. So, just as these Pharisees did, so those this mondern day authority say back, "Who do you say he is?"
What they truly mean is who do you say he is in comparison to us? He better not be greater than we are, in your mind. That is the actual offense. I know God is God, but I am his representation within your eyesight, so there better not be another that you have replaced me with.
Wow! That one kinda knocked me over right there.
*I did not desire to make a long post: to take up most of your time studying with me, but it appears that Christ has more for all of us. So, this is going to become a mini-series. LOL We will pick up Monday with the continuation of this presentation by looking at the family aspect of receiving salvation/healing of past disabilities.*
I hope you all are sticking with me during this, now understood, mini-series on John 9. Please leave me some feedback. Let me know how these presentations are affecting you, if they are affecting you. This would be most helpful to me as well. Remember, it is fellowship. I am not above being taught myself. I welcome your commentary. Let's all reach for Christ Jesus a little more.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Good Morning all. We are going to pick up this presentation at the place where most of you are more than likely dwelling at this present moment. Like the blind man, after his conversion/healing, you are now faced with the effects of your desire to tell everyone about this amazing transformation, as well as the man that is responsible for it; Christ Jesus.
How your life changes (How friends and family treat you): v8-34
*ONCE AGAIN, GRAB YOUR BIBLE*
Off the bat, we this man: who is now no longer blind; this is very momumental within his life, doing the very same exact thing we do, or did, once we have had our encounter with Christ Jesus. Going back around the same people that he was around when he was blind. Now, I will say this, there is nothing wrong with it because this is a newness in YOUR LIFE that you desire to share and who better than those that knew about you when you were the way you used to be; blind, sad, depressed, unmotivated, and beatdown in spirit.
v8-14
The neighbors therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and begged?
Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he.
Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened?
He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and annointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.
Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not.
They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind.
And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made clay, and opened his eyes.
Do you see what happened to this man, now that he has been set in a new place in bis life and went back around those he used to hang out with? Can you make the connection to the sometime hiccups that occur when you attempt, with honest love in your heart, to go back to Mo Mo's crib, or Lil' Rough's place? Understand the difficulty this man faced, just as you faced, when attempting to share this good news about how a man named Jesus has done such a miracle in your life?
Let's grasp at one thing which needs to be said, "To go back to who you are familiar with, especially after such a great experience as receiving Salvation, is not a crime. But, you must go back with the knowledge that it was ONLY you who has received."
Besides, if we look back at the text, we will see the immediate similarities between them back then and those we 'see' in today's time. Some didn't believe it was him. Some said it looked like him. Some wanted to know how it happend. (Oh, my personal favorite type of people) Some just bypassed his joy of reception altogether, and wanted to know where Jesus was for themselves. Not because they desired the gift given, no, they desired to see if Jesus would 'give them' what they wanted. Once this man; who is no longer blind, tells them he doesn't know where Jesus is at these so called friends take him before the authorities.
This is HATERISM at it's best. Y'all know about people, such as these. Them that see your joy behind something you have received, let alone you have received your salvation of Christ Jesus, and they mad because they 'cannot' HAVE IT. But, little do those people realize, just like these people in the text, that if they just exert a little effort to search they would find Jesus and receive what they need as well. No, they accuse you before them that they know have no desire to be affliated with Jesus.
Go back and look at verses 13 and 14. These are Jews.
They know the custom and traditions: to know that bringing this man before the highly respected, socially accepted, traditional authority; to accuse him of receiving a miracle credited to have been given by some second rate, say he a prophet. And, this all happens on the sabbath. The Sabbath!!!!! This is the HOLY day: the day that God, himself, rests!!! Oh, these people are making sure this dude regretted not telling them where to find this man named Jesus. I mean let's be honest, if the man would have known where Jesus was at do you seriously think that these individuals, just like those you used to hang around, would have ran so quickly to 'tell' on you? Y'all know the rule: NO SNITCHIN'!!!
Again, do you understand about those who you may have hung around before you received your 'change' in life, position, stature: on the job, within the community, a marriage, or however you are now distinguished apart from that group? Some will not enjoy it with you. They would rather see you suffer under the scrutiny of accusation than to cheer for you; having the understanding, themselves, that they can receive it as well, with a little effort or search.
So there he is, standing before the Pharisees, being asked about his new place within his life. Can you imagine this dude's mental state at this point? Oh, wait! Yes, you can. Because just like us, when we received our salvation and began to walk behind Christ Jesus, this dude hasn't had too much time to enjoy it... As a matter of fact, this is within the same day or two, maybe, and he is already defending himself just for receiving the gift. Remember, this dude didn't particularly think his prior condition was none too bad. And, I can guarentee you those who knew him back then, loved him being in the state that he was in.
v15
Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.
I can imagine this man, in his mind, saying, "Alright now, y'all getting on my nerves with this. Why is it you so concerned about me now? I have been blind all these years and not one of you finely robed, jewel encrusted, so and sos ever spoke to me as you went about your day. What do you really want with this Jesus, or with the knowledge of my receiving sight?"
Now if you notice, this man did not change his answer. He was standing before the most well respected men in the town. These Pharisees were the judge and jury of their day. Go back and study about them. You will see that to be brought before them, there would be some retribution for TRESPASSING THE LAW. But this former blind man stands before them and states the simple truth. Deal with it!!!!
v16 and 17
Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.
They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.
I hope you can see, clearly, what is occurring here at this moment: to link it to your life at present time, especially if you have just began your walk with Christ. These Pharisees only desire is to upon hold their interputation of the LAW. The Law according to Moses to be specific. But, what must be slide up in here is that st this time, most Pharisees were not living the Law themselves, nor applying it correctly. This is how the statement of the former blind man causes this division of thought within their group. Kinda like when you find yourself in front of that "accepted" form of authority and all you give is the truth of what happened to you. "Man, you remember I used to be out of control. Well, one day I gave my life to Christ Jesus, and he saved me. It's that simple"
That "accepted" authority always stands with that look of confusion. So, just as these Pharisees did, so those this mondern day authority say back, "Who do you say he is?"
What they truly mean is who do you say he is in comparison to us? He better not be greater than we are, in your mind. That is the actual offense. I know God is God, but I am his representation within your eyesight, so there better not be another that you have replaced me with.
Wow! That one kinda knocked me over right there.
*I did not desire to make a long post: to take up most of your time studying with me, but it appears that Christ has more for all of us. So, this is going to become a mini-series. LOL We will pick up Monday with the continuation of this presentation by looking at the family aspect of receiving salvation/healing of past disabilities.*
I hope you all are sticking with me during this, now understood, mini-series on John 9. Please leave me some feedback. Let me know how these presentations are affecting you, if they are affecting you. This would be most helpful to me as well. Remember, it is fellowship. I am not above being taught myself. I welcome your commentary. Let's all reach for Christ Jesus a little more.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Friday, May 20, 2011
I Have Told You Already (And You Wouldn't Litsen)
John 9;1-41 (KJV)
*This is the entire chapter of 9. This is going to read a little different*
Today, I am going to take you all through an account (situation) that will assist you in not only seeing how Christ Jesus will move on your behalf; to heal you, but he also makes sure to show you that you are who he is present for; to redeem you.
Because it is the entire chapter and there is a time press, I am going to key in on certain verses throughout the chapter. This will provide us with a more concise view of how Christ moves.
This is broken down in parts:
A. Before you meet Christ Jesus
B. Your personal encounter with Christ Jesus
C. How your life changes (How you are treated by friends and family)
D. The assurance provided by Christ Jesus for your eternal life
GRAB YOUR BIBLE!
Before you meet Christ Jesus (v1-5):
And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.
And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?
Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.
I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
Ready for the ultimate reduction of Pride?! Your life may just be happening the way it is because God desires you to be His example of what can happen when Christ Jesus shows up! Hallelujah! I am praising his Holy name off of that, alone. Whew!.....
Let's look at this blind man; chillin', wherever it is he is at this particular moment. Not thinking his day is going to be different than any other he has experienced (been blind since birth people). The disciples question about this man highlighted the thought process of the society, as a whole, back then, and if you think about it, we might just hold the same thought process in today's society. But, Jesus' answer shows that every life has reason, purpose, and is the opportunity by which God desires to show his Love, his Power, and Himself to those who would come into contact with that particular life: the person.
This is important to see because there are those of you who are just a little skeptical of 'if Jesus and all that Christian stuff is true', yet look at your life now. It ain't your fault your family is like it is, but it is like it is and you have all that on you; to conduct yourself the way you do in present time. And, you know you spend most your nights on the edge of your bed, wondering if it going to be like this forever. I am telling you that it doesn't have to be that way, any longer. You have opportunity for relief. Christ Jesus is present!!!!! Ready to work it out!!!!!
Your personal encounter with Christ Jesus (v6-7):
When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,
And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.
Without delay, it is mind-blowing to see that Christ healed this man 1) with dirt and water, and 2) without this man asking to be healed..... BOOYOWWW!!!!!!! C'mon, don't tell me you ain't get a SHOUT off of that one!!!! Yes! I am speaking to my Saved folks!!!! Y'all need to see this, that God heals through his word, but at the same time he don't change. The dirt and the spit (water)? We are made from???...... Yes! To give this man his sight, Christ needed only the original ingredients that were used to form every part of man the first time. Yup, I am getting that deep with it because it is that deep. Next, this dude, from John's account, doesn't ask, petition, or begs for a healing of his sight. Again, a point to shout on because we all know the person that we have been witnessing to about the power of Christ, and how it can change any situation you find yourself in, at whatever point in your life. Yet, this person doesn't appear to be listening (to absorb the knowledge), or they particularly do not care (they do not "see" anything exceptionally difficult about there situation).
This experience, the healing that Jesus performed: according to John's account, more than likely is similar (in thought) to that of Saul upon that street called 'Straight' in Damascus. It occurred so that God, alone would receive credit: God does, always, receive credit for any conversion, but this shows that there is not the agent of human desire making that initial step to God, through Christ Jesus, to seek the healing. This healing (that the man received) brings with it that additional component which solidifies the trueness of God's power because it's recipiant will tell of his non-involement in the healing.
"Man, I was just sittin' there, minding my own business, not beggin', askin' for no bread or nothing. Then I hear these dudes talking to their Master about me. I was about to get up and cuss them out but the dude that is there Master, he saved 'em before I opened my mouth. Anyway, I heard him walk a little closer to me and then he spit. Then, he gave me this wet dirt and told me to put it on my eyes. I was thinking to myself like, dude didn't you just spit in this, and its dirt. But, I did because it was SOMETHING about that dude. Then he gone tell me to go to Siloam and wash it off. Bruh! That's how ya boi got his sight!!!!!
I am telling you, THAT'S ALL I DID!!!!! I let him put that stuff on my eyes, and I went to the pool and washed it off..... SERIOUS!!!!!"
This man's whole life, from the point of healing to eternity, is different. No matter what happens to him, he has a story that will compell people to WANT to investigate Christ Jesus and see about him for themselves. Do you see now? What is happening within your life?.... If you are the person that has heard about Christ Jesus, but just did not think 'all that Jesus stuff' was for you, you have heard about a man similar to you. If you are the person that has already given your life over to Christ Jesus, then you have a story: a testimony that needs to be heard. It is the story that will cause a person to seek out Christ Jesus for themselves.
Now, to those who read and are ready to walk after Christ Jesus (Luke 9;23-27), I ask that you go to Romans 10;9-11 at this moment and read it. Pray upon it; to recite it out loud; to make the confession for yourself. Afterwhich, I would ask that you seek out a good, Bible based church and get baptized (John 3;4-8), and begin to get grounded and rooted in the Word of God.
So, there will be a Part II for this pesentation. I thank all of you for sitting with me. Next section is going to take us into this newness of life, and how it affects those around us. Continue to read, study, pray, and seek Christ for that which is for you. You will attain it. See you all in a little while.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
*This is the entire chapter of 9. This is going to read a little different*
Today, I am going to take you all through an account (situation) that will assist you in not only seeing how Christ Jesus will move on your behalf; to heal you, but he also makes sure to show you that you are who he is present for; to redeem you.
Because it is the entire chapter and there is a time press, I am going to key in on certain verses throughout the chapter. This will provide us with a more concise view of how Christ moves.
This is broken down in parts:
A. Before you meet Christ Jesus
B. Your personal encounter with Christ Jesus
C. How your life changes (How you are treated by friends and family)
D. The assurance provided by Christ Jesus for your eternal life
GRAB YOUR BIBLE!
Before you meet Christ Jesus (v1-5):
And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.
And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?
Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.
I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
Ready for the ultimate reduction of Pride?! Your life may just be happening the way it is because God desires you to be His example of what can happen when Christ Jesus shows up! Hallelujah! I am praising his Holy name off of that, alone. Whew!.....
Let's look at this blind man; chillin', wherever it is he is at this particular moment. Not thinking his day is going to be different than any other he has experienced (been blind since birth people). The disciples question about this man highlighted the thought process of the society, as a whole, back then, and if you think about it, we might just hold the same thought process in today's society. But, Jesus' answer shows that every life has reason, purpose, and is the opportunity by which God desires to show his Love, his Power, and Himself to those who would come into contact with that particular life: the person.
This is important to see because there are those of you who are just a little skeptical of 'if Jesus and all that Christian stuff is true', yet look at your life now. It ain't your fault your family is like it is, but it is like it is and you have all that on you; to conduct yourself the way you do in present time. And, you know you spend most your nights on the edge of your bed, wondering if it going to be like this forever. I am telling you that it doesn't have to be that way, any longer. You have opportunity for relief. Christ Jesus is present!!!!! Ready to work it out!!!!!
Your personal encounter with Christ Jesus (v6-7):
When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,
And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.
Without delay, it is mind-blowing to see that Christ healed this man 1) with dirt and water, and 2) without this man asking to be healed..... BOOYOWWW!!!!!!! C'mon, don't tell me you ain't get a SHOUT off of that one!!!! Yes! I am speaking to my Saved folks!!!! Y'all need to see this, that God heals through his word, but at the same time he don't change. The dirt and the spit (water)? We are made from???...... Yes! To give this man his sight, Christ needed only the original ingredients that were used to form every part of man the first time. Yup, I am getting that deep with it because it is that deep. Next, this dude, from John's account, doesn't ask, petition, or begs for a healing of his sight. Again, a point to shout on because we all know the person that we have been witnessing to about the power of Christ, and how it can change any situation you find yourself in, at whatever point in your life. Yet, this person doesn't appear to be listening (to absorb the knowledge), or they particularly do not care (they do not "see" anything exceptionally difficult about there situation).
This experience, the healing that Jesus performed: according to John's account, more than likely is similar (in thought) to that of Saul upon that street called 'Straight' in Damascus. It occurred so that God, alone would receive credit: God does, always, receive credit for any conversion, but this shows that there is not the agent of human desire making that initial step to God, through Christ Jesus, to seek the healing. This healing (that the man received) brings with it that additional component which solidifies the trueness of God's power because it's recipiant will tell of his non-involement in the healing.
"Man, I was just sittin' there, minding my own business, not beggin', askin' for no bread or nothing. Then I hear these dudes talking to their Master about me. I was about to get up and cuss them out but the dude that is there Master, he saved 'em before I opened my mouth. Anyway, I heard him walk a little closer to me and then he spit. Then, he gave me this wet dirt and told me to put it on my eyes. I was thinking to myself like, dude didn't you just spit in this, and its dirt. But, I did because it was SOMETHING about that dude. Then he gone tell me to go to Siloam and wash it off. Bruh! That's how ya boi got his sight!!!!!
I am telling you, THAT'S ALL I DID!!!!! I let him put that stuff on my eyes, and I went to the pool and washed it off..... SERIOUS!!!!!"
This man's whole life, from the point of healing to eternity, is different. No matter what happens to him, he has a story that will compell people to WANT to investigate Christ Jesus and see about him for themselves. Do you see now? What is happening within your life?.... If you are the person that has heard about Christ Jesus, but just did not think 'all that Jesus stuff' was for you, you have heard about a man similar to you. If you are the person that has already given your life over to Christ Jesus, then you have a story: a testimony that needs to be heard. It is the story that will cause a person to seek out Christ Jesus for themselves.
Now, to those who read and are ready to walk after Christ Jesus (Luke 9;23-27), I ask that you go to Romans 10;9-11 at this moment and read it. Pray upon it; to recite it out loud; to make the confession for yourself. Afterwhich, I would ask that you seek out a good, Bible based church and get baptized (John 3;4-8), and begin to get grounded and rooted in the Word of God.
So, there will be a Part II for this pesentation. I thank all of you for sitting with me. Next section is going to take us into this newness of life, and how it affects those around us. Continue to read, study, pray, and seek Christ for that which is for you. You will attain it. See you all in a little while.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The Heart Wants What The Heart Wants (That's a Lie)
1 Kings 11;1-11 (KJV)
But king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zidonians, and Hittites;
Of the nations concerning which the Lord said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in unto you: for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods: Solomon cleaved unto these in love.
And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart.
For it came to pass, when Soloman was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father.
For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites.
And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord, and went not fully after the Lord, as did David his father.
Then did Solomon build a high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon.
And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.
And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice,
And commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods: but he kept not that which the Lord commanded.
Wherefore the Lord said unto Solomon, Forasmuch as this is done of thee, and thou has not kept my covenant and my statutes, which I have commanded thee, I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant.
As I prepared today's encouragement, a question asked by a young lady on facebook came to mind: If a man of certain power or fame has a beautiful, intelligent, accomplished wife by his side who is faithful, why would he cheat on her?
That question has probably been answered by a number of individuals, who more than likely have listed a number of very valid reasons; along with some good opinion, observations, and passionate rebuttal. But, I would reach out a little further and answer that it is because that man's heart TURNED AWAY from God. Today, we have to see, whether male or female, that if our heart is not about pleasing God: 100%, then any and everything we chase after will bring us that much closer to the harsh judgement of God. Yes, there will be a judgement pronounced over you.
So, look at Solomon. This great man of God, son of David: a man that has been acknowledged as having a heart after God's. Solomon, the richest man in the world, the wisest man in the world. These are just a few of the credits we give to Solomon, but it is plain fact that the credit is belonging, solely to God. Why? Because, if you study all of Solomon's accomplishments, you will see that all he did was follow behind the command or statute of God. Hey, if following the greatest mind is all it takes to be considered 'wisest', 'richest', and 'most powerful', then I will not step out from behind at no time. Not for no one; no man or no woman..... "I bet" LOL
Let's look at a very critical point, within the text, which I would say is pretty much Solomon's place of "turn away", and quite possibly the same, exact place for most men and women when they attain a level of power or fame. Verse 2; 'Solomon cleaved unto these in love'. Now, if you remember God is a jealous God, and he desires that we not give our love to none other god. That is, after all the very first commandment. Deuteronomy 5;7, Thou shalt have none other gods before me. This is where most of us slip up. We allow our hearts to be "turned away" after other gods. As we can see, also, Solomon probably got worn down (over the years) by these many women in his life too. Verse 4 indicates that it was 'when Solomon was old' that his wives turned away his heart. Remember Samson? Remember how Delilah got to the secret of his strength? Oh, you: especially you men, should go read that (Judges 16;4-22). Delilah got to the secret by annoying Samson, which occurred because Samson allowed for his heart to be "after" Philistine women. That which you do not lend credence to will not inconvience you.
Which brings me back to the question that the young lady posed to the facebook community. Why? Why would a man, or woman for that fact, allow for these types of indiscretions to happen when they would seem to have all any one person would need or desire? Answer: It is their heart. As the title indicates; the heart wants what the heart wants..... And, that is a lie. For, that widely pronounced little annecdote should be rephrased to exclaim: the flesh wants what the flesh wants. Because, it is actually that miscreant which bellies up to our heart and begs for a "little more of that which you let me have last time". Which is where the lie habitates. For the flesh has no remembrance of what it had before. If it did, it could run to that remembrance and sit still awhile. But, with no memory, this flesh must employ all of its tactics to gain satisfaction again, and whats even more mind-blowing is that the next satisfaction will have to be even greater than the last. Do you see how Solomon did himself in now? The same way these people of certain fame or wealth, or both, will do themselves in when 'turning away'. Allowing the flesh to have its way.
In closing, I would say that this day's encouragement isn't meant to bring an answer, or relief for anyone. It is meant to draw the curtains, so that you can see your way to moving toward that which God has for you, through your willing submission to Christ Jesus (John 14;6-7). To turn away from God, just to chase behind some false idol, weak copy, or faulty teaching is devistating to your heart. For your heart desires to serve God. Your heart knows that it was created by God; to give praise and honor to God, as is the truth of your body entire. I know this might make you giggle, or make the internal statement 'Brova has finally fallen down and bumped his head', but I ask you this question: Away from the presence, commandments, or conversations you have with God, what has your life been like? No, serious, reflect on it a bit. How much peace do you rest in? How much joy, real life joy, do you have? How much fear lays within you? These question, when you are dwelling with God; daily and following his commandments and statutes, will make you giggle or look at the asker like, "You must not know Jesus!" HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
I desire that you, just like I, have a joy everlasting, a peace that surpasses all understanding, and a hope that never fails. This is all secured when you stop that turning away from God, and begin to turn back. So, to really answer that young lady's question on facebook: He doesn't fully know Christ Jesus. Forgive him, for he knows not what he do.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
But king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zidonians, and Hittites;
Of the nations concerning which the Lord said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in unto you: for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods: Solomon cleaved unto these in love.
And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart.
For it came to pass, when Soloman was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father.
For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites.
And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord, and went not fully after the Lord, as did David his father.
Then did Solomon build a high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon.
And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.
And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice,
And commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods: but he kept not that which the Lord commanded.
Wherefore the Lord said unto Solomon, Forasmuch as this is done of thee, and thou has not kept my covenant and my statutes, which I have commanded thee, I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant.
As I prepared today's encouragement, a question asked by a young lady on facebook came to mind: If a man of certain power or fame has a beautiful, intelligent, accomplished wife by his side who is faithful, why would he cheat on her?
That question has probably been answered by a number of individuals, who more than likely have listed a number of very valid reasons; along with some good opinion, observations, and passionate rebuttal. But, I would reach out a little further and answer that it is because that man's heart TURNED AWAY from God. Today, we have to see, whether male or female, that if our heart is not about pleasing God: 100%, then any and everything we chase after will bring us that much closer to the harsh judgement of God. Yes, there will be a judgement pronounced over you.
So, look at Solomon. This great man of God, son of David: a man that has been acknowledged as having a heart after God's. Solomon, the richest man in the world, the wisest man in the world. These are just a few of the credits we give to Solomon, but it is plain fact that the credit is belonging, solely to God. Why? Because, if you study all of Solomon's accomplishments, you will see that all he did was follow behind the command or statute of God. Hey, if following the greatest mind is all it takes to be considered 'wisest', 'richest', and 'most powerful', then I will not step out from behind at no time. Not for no one; no man or no woman..... "I bet" LOL
Let's look at a very critical point, within the text, which I would say is pretty much Solomon's place of "turn away", and quite possibly the same, exact place for most men and women when they attain a level of power or fame. Verse 2; 'Solomon cleaved unto these in love'. Now, if you remember God is a jealous God, and he desires that we not give our love to none other god. That is, after all the very first commandment. Deuteronomy 5;7, Thou shalt have none other gods before me. This is where most of us slip up. We allow our hearts to be "turned away" after other gods. As we can see, also, Solomon probably got worn down (over the years) by these many women in his life too. Verse 4 indicates that it was 'when Solomon was old' that his wives turned away his heart. Remember Samson? Remember how Delilah got to the secret of his strength? Oh, you: especially you men, should go read that (Judges 16;4-22). Delilah got to the secret by annoying Samson, which occurred because Samson allowed for his heart to be "after" Philistine women. That which you do not lend credence to will not inconvience you.
Which brings me back to the question that the young lady posed to the facebook community. Why? Why would a man, or woman for that fact, allow for these types of indiscretions to happen when they would seem to have all any one person would need or desire? Answer: It is their heart. As the title indicates; the heart wants what the heart wants..... And, that is a lie. For, that widely pronounced little annecdote should be rephrased to exclaim: the flesh wants what the flesh wants. Because, it is actually that miscreant which bellies up to our heart and begs for a "little more of that which you let me have last time". Which is where the lie habitates. For the flesh has no remembrance of what it had before. If it did, it could run to that remembrance and sit still awhile. But, with no memory, this flesh must employ all of its tactics to gain satisfaction again, and whats even more mind-blowing is that the next satisfaction will have to be even greater than the last. Do you see how Solomon did himself in now? The same way these people of certain fame or wealth, or both, will do themselves in when 'turning away'. Allowing the flesh to have its way.
In closing, I would say that this day's encouragement isn't meant to bring an answer, or relief for anyone. It is meant to draw the curtains, so that you can see your way to moving toward that which God has for you, through your willing submission to Christ Jesus (John 14;6-7). To turn away from God, just to chase behind some false idol, weak copy, or faulty teaching is devistating to your heart. For your heart desires to serve God. Your heart knows that it was created by God; to give praise and honor to God, as is the truth of your body entire. I know this might make you giggle, or make the internal statement 'Brova has finally fallen down and bumped his head', but I ask you this question: Away from the presence, commandments, or conversations you have with God, what has your life been like? No, serious, reflect on it a bit. How much peace do you rest in? How much joy, real life joy, do you have? How much fear lays within you? These question, when you are dwelling with God; daily and following his commandments and statutes, will make you giggle or look at the asker like, "You must not know Jesus!" HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
I desire that you, just like I, have a joy everlasting, a peace that surpasses all understanding, and a hope that never fails. This is all secured when you stop that turning away from God, and begin to turn back. So, to really answer that young lady's question on facebook: He doesn't fully know Christ Jesus. Forgive him, for he knows not what he do.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Game Recognize Game (And You Looking a lil' Unfamiliar)
Proverbs 7;1-5 (KJV)
My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.
Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.
Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.
Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:
That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.
Okay, last night I before the Lord, in prayer, for a spiritual family member. Upon giving my petition to him, he gave me back the Proverb. I read and said to him, "Lord, this appears to be directed specifically at men?"
His answer back, "Do your sisters not need to be told how avoid those men that would carry the same exact ways of operating as the 'strange woman'?" (refer back to the blog post entitled "Why Her?")
With that being said, to my sisters: It is time for you all to stop hiding behind the softness of your emotional weakness and step into this short class being given. It is time for you to admit that Wisdom; your brother has been waiting for you to show up, and your kinsman; Understanding came along too. So, sit down and get ready to be TOLD about those 'strange men' that are causing you all so much emotional pain and confusion.
Good Morning Sisters,
Let's not waste any time. You know who I am, so moving forward. Back before I began my walk with Christ Jesus; to walk correctly, I didn't treat women right. When I say 'not right', I want you to understand that I mean 'all wrong'. I have given the alert to the Sistes in my church that if there is a dude they are dating, and some things just do not add up, "Come ask me about it."
Not that I am the super-duper, be all-end all, relationship expert, but I do know a thing a two about that system by which some men and women employ, within the dating world, that is called 'Game'. As the line in one of Ice Cube's film is spoken, "I know about Game!"
I tell my Sisters, "All of you have that girlfriend. The one that has called you up, crying about the dude they are seeing. And, they tell you how he has gone into her purse and stole money."
I WAS THAT DUDE!!
Then there is, "Girl!!! He grabbed the keys to my car two days ago, and still ain't came back."
I WAS THAT DUDE!!
Still another that cryed, "I cannot believe he would sleep with my own aunt!!"
Yup, I WAS THAT DUDE TOO!! *not that it was the girl's aunt. not that that makes a difference.*
What I try to express, is that there are few incidents that I couldn't assist my Sisters with because I more than likely have committed those same infractions. Thank God for mercy! Oh, and this is not bragging. So, do not think I hold these prior actions as moments of boast. No. These memories, I know, are allowed to remain so that moments like this one right now can happen. I can be the assistant to Wisdom and Understanding. I provide visual aids and what not.
Now to the text. First and foremost, God is saying, through the teacher of the Proverb, that you are to be very mindful of his commandments. He reminds you with the word 'keep' twice, and the word 'bind', and the word 'write'. I like how the teacher says, in verse 1, "lay up my commandments with thee". This is him encouraging you to keep God's commandments with you, as you would a precious stone that you treasure and do not desire to be taken away from you: you hold it tight to your chest when walking, when sleeping, it is right under your head, under your pillow. Admit it Sisters, some of you keep the thought of that man like that. Yeah you do.
Let's move to verse 4, after all this is the meat of this lesson. The teacher of the Proverb, once again, encourages you to say to Wisdom, "Thou art my sister."
Let's remember, this is written with men in mind, but what is so good about God is that he would not have his daughters just 'OUT THERE' having game ran on them. So, God said, in a way, "Son, translate this to your Sisters."
My Sisters, "Daddy wanted me to tell you all to stop playing the fool, acting like you stupid, and come enroll yourself in this class bing taught by Wisdom and Understanding."
Call Wisdom your brother, and Understanding your kinsman.
Now, let's breakdown these words so you can 'breakdown' this game.
*In all seriousness, let's pray. Thank you Jesus. This is territory that has been marked out by the enemy, and for us to be discussing this, is like we have obtained some secret documents that will ENABLE US to gain the VICTORY.
Lord, we come to you at this time seeking better understanding in the way of following you. Yes Lord, we know that this what we are about to be given is for our benefit, and we give thanks Lord. Please protect us Lord. The enemy would have that we continue to walk, ignorant, to this information, but we say THANK YOU LORD that you have made it accessible and given it to us by way of Wisdom and Understanding. So we know that we are receiving correct information that will break the bonds of low self-esteem, sadness of spirit, and defeat. We will, after this lesson, walk as one that sees exactly what the enemy is trying to lay in our path, to block us, through fake smiles and fake kisses of that 'stranger'. Thank you Lord for providing this lesson, on this day. For we know that it is ordained by you, to be beneficial for us; your children. So, we will be ver so careful to give your name all the power, and all the glory, and all the worship. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
All words are in the Hebrew:
Wisdom; chokmah (khok-maw'): wisdom [in good sense]. Its base word is chakam (khaw-kam') and it means to be wise in your thinking, word, and action. Which shows us that this wisdom is skillful in action, truly wise (consider) in thought, and very intelligent in speaking.
We are told to refer to this 'wisdom' as a sibling. In the text wisdom is referred to as our 'sister'. Let us break down that word (to stay true to the teaching of the text), and apply on your side, women, as you would a brother (actual blood sibling). This is good. Hallelujah, Lord.
Sister; achowth (aw-khoth'): it is the irregular, femenine usage of the root word ach (awkh) which means brother. Applied in the widest of sense of the word literally or figuratively. So, do you see that you were already thought of when this was written. This 'sister' is holding the same position as a brother would when it comes to the application of siblinghood. I knew it would be good!!!!
Understanding; biynah (bee-naw'): understanding, as in knowledge; a perfect knowledge, an understanding knowledge, a knowledge full of wisdom. This is reached through its root word biyn (bene) meaning to separate mentally: to distinguish. Like you know when you can clearly put one thing on one side to understand it needs to be separated from something else. Again, this 'understanding' is told to be equated to a kinswoman.
Kinswoman; mowda (mo-dah') or rather moda (mo-daw'): an acquaintance. This word has a base word meaning, yada (yaw-dah'), and it means to know; to probably ascertain by seeing. This acquaintance knows by observing, by recognizing, by remembering all instructions, by attaining to care. This is an acknowledged acquantance; an advisor, an assured one: that bewares, and is certain. And, we are to apply this 'kinswoman' in the place of this understanding.
Sisters, y'all are receiving a class leson that should have you standing in front of whoever that man is, searching out everyone of his words, actions, and deeds. Do you get it? No longer, after this, should you have to walk in a cloud of confusion about a man's, especially this 'strange' man's, actions. Wisdom is your brother, and Understanding is your kinsman. They are standing right along side of you, giving to you all the necessary information so that you can properly evaluate this 'strange' man, and see exactly why you are not to be entangled with him. Especially if you are still dealing with certain horizontal slip-ups. Yes, I am advising you to stay vertical....
It aint rocket science Sister! Most of the time these dudes are easy to spot, but if you are in that place where your weakness (emotional) is showing, you may just need to lean even more on Wisdom and Understanding. But, once you do, and they go to work for you; to bring to you the good report, do not throw the report in the trash only to run under your own judgement. That would be what we men call: FOOLISHNESS.
In closing today's encouragement: the class lecture. LOL. I only ask that you, my Sister, begin to open your eyes and take in the whole landscape of that dude you are entangled with. Really call out to God's wisdom and understanding. They will arrive to sit with you, give to you, and protect your emotional state. I understand that y'all are strong, capable, intelligent, and accomplished. It is just sometimes, in your haste to prove whatever it is that you desire to prove, you end up with the black ink, bold, stamp "FOOL" on your forehead. You know that takes awhile to rub off.
All of this has been presented in compassionate, brotherly, love.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.
Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.
Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.
Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:
That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.
Okay, last night I before the Lord, in prayer, for a spiritual family member. Upon giving my petition to him, he gave me back the Proverb. I read and said to him, "Lord, this appears to be directed specifically at men?"
His answer back, "Do your sisters not need to be told how avoid those men that would carry the same exact ways of operating as the 'strange woman'?" (refer back to the blog post entitled "Why Her?")
With that being said, to my sisters: It is time for you all to stop hiding behind the softness of your emotional weakness and step into this short class being given. It is time for you to admit that Wisdom; your brother has been waiting for you to show up, and your kinsman; Understanding came along too. So, sit down and get ready to be TOLD about those 'strange men' that are causing you all so much emotional pain and confusion.
Good Morning Sisters,
Let's not waste any time. You know who I am, so moving forward. Back before I began my walk with Christ Jesus; to walk correctly, I didn't treat women right. When I say 'not right', I want you to understand that I mean 'all wrong'. I have given the alert to the Sistes in my church that if there is a dude they are dating, and some things just do not add up, "Come ask me about it."
Not that I am the super-duper, be all-end all, relationship expert, but I do know a thing a two about that system by which some men and women employ, within the dating world, that is called 'Game'. As the line in one of Ice Cube's film is spoken, "I know about Game!"
I tell my Sisters, "All of you have that girlfriend. The one that has called you up, crying about the dude they are seeing. And, they tell you how he has gone into her purse and stole money."
I WAS THAT DUDE!!
Then there is, "Girl!!! He grabbed the keys to my car two days ago, and still ain't came back."
I WAS THAT DUDE!!
Still another that cryed, "I cannot believe he would sleep with my own aunt!!"
Yup, I WAS THAT DUDE TOO!! *not that it was the girl's aunt. not that that makes a difference.*
What I try to express, is that there are few incidents that I couldn't assist my Sisters with because I more than likely have committed those same infractions. Thank God for mercy! Oh, and this is not bragging. So, do not think I hold these prior actions as moments of boast. No. These memories, I know, are allowed to remain so that moments like this one right now can happen. I can be the assistant to Wisdom and Understanding. I provide visual aids and what not.
Now to the text. First and foremost, God is saying, through the teacher of the Proverb, that you are to be very mindful of his commandments. He reminds you with the word 'keep' twice, and the word 'bind', and the word 'write'. I like how the teacher says, in verse 1, "lay up my commandments with thee". This is him encouraging you to keep God's commandments with you, as you would a precious stone that you treasure and do not desire to be taken away from you: you hold it tight to your chest when walking, when sleeping, it is right under your head, under your pillow. Admit it Sisters, some of you keep the thought of that man like that. Yeah you do.
Let's move to verse 4, after all this is the meat of this lesson. The teacher of the Proverb, once again, encourages you to say to Wisdom, "Thou art my sister."
Let's remember, this is written with men in mind, but what is so good about God is that he would not have his daughters just 'OUT THERE' having game ran on them. So, God said, in a way, "Son, translate this to your Sisters."
My Sisters, "Daddy wanted me to tell you all to stop playing the fool, acting like you stupid, and come enroll yourself in this class bing taught by Wisdom and Understanding."
Call Wisdom your brother, and Understanding your kinsman.
Now, let's breakdown these words so you can 'breakdown' this game.
*In all seriousness, let's pray. Thank you Jesus. This is territory that has been marked out by the enemy, and for us to be discussing this, is like we have obtained some secret documents that will ENABLE US to gain the VICTORY.
Lord, we come to you at this time seeking better understanding in the way of following you. Yes Lord, we know that this what we are about to be given is for our benefit, and we give thanks Lord. Please protect us Lord. The enemy would have that we continue to walk, ignorant, to this information, but we say THANK YOU LORD that you have made it accessible and given it to us by way of Wisdom and Understanding. So we know that we are receiving correct information that will break the bonds of low self-esteem, sadness of spirit, and defeat. We will, after this lesson, walk as one that sees exactly what the enemy is trying to lay in our path, to block us, through fake smiles and fake kisses of that 'stranger'. Thank you Lord for providing this lesson, on this day. For we know that it is ordained by you, to be beneficial for us; your children. So, we will be ver so careful to give your name all the power, and all the glory, and all the worship. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
All words are in the Hebrew:
Wisdom; chokmah (khok-maw'): wisdom [in good sense]. Its base word is chakam (khaw-kam') and it means to be wise in your thinking, word, and action. Which shows us that this wisdom is skillful in action, truly wise (consider) in thought, and very intelligent in speaking.
We are told to refer to this 'wisdom' as a sibling. In the text wisdom is referred to as our 'sister'. Let us break down that word (to stay true to the teaching of the text), and apply on your side, women, as you would a brother (actual blood sibling). This is good. Hallelujah, Lord.
Sister; achowth (aw-khoth'): it is the irregular, femenine usage of the root word ach (awkh) which means brother. Applied in the widest of sense of the word literally or figuratively. So, do you see that you were already thought of when this was written. This 'sister' is holding the same position as a brother would when it comes to the application of siblinghood. I knew it would be good!!!!
Understanding; biynah (bee-naw'): understanding, as in knowledge; a perfect knowledge, an understanding knowledge, a knowledge full of wisdom. This is reached through its root word biyn (bene) meaning to separate mentally: to distinguish. Like you know when you can clearly put one thing on one side to understand it needs to be separated from something else. Again, this 'understanding' is told to be equated to a kinswoman.
Kinswoman; mowda (mo-dah') or rather moda (mo-daw'): an acquaintance. This word has a base word meaning, yada (yaw-dah'), and it means to know; to probably ascertain by seeing. This acquaintance knows by observing, by recognizing, by remembering all instructions, by attaining to care. This is an acknowledged acquantance; an advisor, an assured one: that bewares, and is certain. And, we are to apply this 'kinswoman' in the place of this understanding.
Sisters, y'all are receiving a class leson that should have you standing in front of whoever that man is, searching out everyone of his words, actions, and deeds. Do you get it? No longer, after this, should you have to walk in a cloud of confusion about a man's, especially this 'strange' man's, actions. Wisdom is your brother, and Understanding is your kinsman. They are standing right along side of you, giving to you all the necessary information so that you can properly evaluate this 'strange' man, and see exactly why you are not to be entangled with him. Especially if you are still dealing with certain horizontal slip-ups. Yes, I am advising you to stay vertical....
It aint rocket science Sister! Most of the time these dudes are easy to spot, but if you are in that place where your weakness (emotional) is showing, you may just need to lean even more on Wisdom and Understanding. But, once you do, and they go to work for you; to bring to you the good report, do not throw the report in the trash only to run under your own judgement. That would be what we men call: FOOLISHNESS.
In closing today's encouragement: the class lecture. LOL. I only ask that you, my Sister, begin to open your eyes and take in the whole landscape of that dude you are entangled with. Really call out to God's wisdom and understanding. They will arrive to sit with you, give to you, and protect your emotional state. I understand that y'all are strong, capable, intelligent, and accomplished. It is just sometimes, in your haste to prove whatever it is that you desire to prove, you end up with the black ink, bold, stamp "FOOL" on your forehead. You know that takes awhile to rub off.
All of this has been presented in compassionate, brotherly, love.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Monday, May 16, 2011
You Have Reached It (That Fork In The Road)
Isaiah 35 (KJV)
The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.
It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God.
Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.
Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengence, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you.
Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.
Then shall the lame man leap as a hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.
And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes.
And a highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.
No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there:
And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Read the scripture carefully, and have a pen and paper ready.
When it comes to your spiritual life, what do you think of when hearing the words: wilderness, desert, parched ground, habitation of dragons? Now, what do you think of when you hear the words: blossom abundantly, excellency, streams in the desert, grass with reeds and rushes? Seriously, tell me what comes to mind: write it down.
NOBODY WANTS TO BE STUCK IN A DESERT! NOT ONE INDIVIDUAL WILL VOLUNTEER TO GO INTO THE WILDERNESS! YOU CAN NOT GET A PERSON TO AGREE ON PERMANENT RESIDENCE WITHIN A LAND WITHOUT WATER!
With that being said, and I would think we all agree on the statement, "Why is it that Holiness is an even more undesirable place for us to live in?" No, don't just think about, alone; you have that pen and paper with you. Write down your thoughts about this question.
Today's encouragement is what I would venture to call 'intense heat' like encouragement. This is not going to feel good, or tickle your emotions. No, this is hard.... I do believe that it is given to me: to be given to you, so that you can begin (if you have not already started) to ask certain questions that will move you toward that DEEP area of relationship with Christ Jesus. It is time to go higher my Brothers and Sisters. No longer is it acceptable, especially if you know you have been stalling, to dwell in this place of dryness, lack, and stifling heat. Understand?
Look at the text. First off, it is being shown to you that this wilderness, this solitary place, this desert is 'glad' and that it 'shall rejoice' at your presence. Yup! I had to put a pause on that one myself. LOL I asked, "What do you mean, Lord? This place will be happy to see me arrive?"
The answer I received is staring me right in the face. Verse 2. This wilderness, this solitary place, this desert DOES GET HAPPY when we arrive because..... you might want to sit down for this one..... because it understands its placement within your life. This harsh land, the dry place, this seclusion is terribly overjoyed at its being used. It understands, one, that it is a created place; created by God, and, two, that it has purpose. When you arrive at this place, it rejoices and get glad because it knows you are selected, by God: the Creator of all, to go through it; to reach the other side. Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!
Again, "Why is Holiness not a desired place to be?" Write down your thoughts.
Go back to the text, verses 4-6, these verses show us that this is not an easy place to be in: this wilderness, this desert, this solitary. But what we do get to grasp at is the opportunity that God will show up; on our side, and prepare us while being in this place. Not only does this occur, but as you see, clearly, in verse 6, 'for in the wilderness'. This is getting exciting!!!!
This is why, sometimes, we have to hear the 'harsh' word. To bypass the depth of God's word just to not endure the hardness of what must be let go of within your present is ridiculous. Look, we all have to suffer that wrath of neglect at some point in our lives. Take me, for example. I spent quite a few years not trying to "give". I mean, give any kind of emotions, or emotional support to anyone. Now, that I am pretty much ready to "give" there are not those around that need my giving. What I mean is that most men and women are strong enough on their own, especially those that I keep company with. So, I have to sit in prayer with Christ and give to him what I desire to give away. If I had not neglected the opportunity, when placed in front of me, then I wouldn't have to sit on some nights and suffer the wrath of that neglect. That is why the wilderness was created! And, if God created the wilderness, it has purpose. That purpose is to prepare you. Yes! You are deserving of preparation, for you are destined to dwell, permanently, in a place where everyone cannot be. This place is The way of holiness!!!!
Again, I ask, "Why is Holiness not a place desired to be in?" Write down your answer.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.
It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God.
Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.
Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengence, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you.
Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.
Then shall the lame man leap as a hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.
And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes.
And a highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.
No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there:
And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Read the scripture carefully, and have a pen and paper ready.
When it comes to your spiritual life, what do you think of when hearing the words: wilderness, desert, parched ground, habitation of dragons? Now, what do you think of when you hear the words: blossom abundantly, excellency, streams in the desert, grass with reeds and rushes? Seriously, tell me what comes to mind: write it down.
NOBODY WANTS TO BE STUCK IN A DESERT! NOT ONE INDIVIDUAL WILL VOLUNTEER TO GO INTO THE WILDERNESS! YOU CAN NOT GET A PERSON TO AGREE ON PERMANENT RESIDENCE WITHIN A LAND WITHOUT WATER!
With that being said, and I would think we all agree on the statement, "Why is it that Holiness is an even more undesirable place for us to live in?" No, don't just think about, alone; you have that pen and paper with you. Write down your thoughts about this question.
Today's encouragement is what I would venture to call 'intense heat' like encouragement. This is not going to feel good, or tickle your emotions. No, this is hard.... I do believe that it is given to me: to be given to you, so that you can begin (if you have not already started) to ask certain questions that will move you toward that DEEP area of relationship with Christ Jesus. It is time to go higher my Brothers and Sisters. No longer is it acceptable, especially if you know you have been stalling, to dwell in this place of dryness, lack, and stifling heat. Understand?
Look at the text. First off, it is being shown to you that this wilderness, this solitary place, this desert is 'glad' and that it 'shall rejoice' at your presence. Yup! I had to put a pause on that one myself. LOL I asked, "What do you mean, Lord? This place will be happy to see me arrive?"
The answer I received is staring me right in the face. Verse 2. This wilderness, this solitary place, this desert DOES GET HAPPY when we arrive because..... you might want to sit down for this one..... because it understands its placement within your life. This harsh land, the dry place, this seclusion is terribly overjoyed at its being used. It understands, one, that it is a created place; created by God, and, two, that it has purpose. When you arrive at this place, it rejoices and get glad because it knows you are selected, by God: the Creator of all, to go through it; to reach the other side. Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!
Again, "Why is Holiness not a desired place to be?" Write down your thoughts.
Go back to the text, verses 4-6, these verses show us that this is not an easy place to be in: this wilderness, this desert, this solitary. But what we do get to grasp at is the opportunity that God will show up; on our side, and prepare us while being in this place. Not only does this occur, but as you see, clearly, in verse 6, 'for in the wilderness'. This is getting exciting!!!!
This is why, sometimes, we have to hear the 'harsh' word. To bypass the depth of God's word just to not endure the hardness of what must be let go of within your present is ridiculous. Look, we all have to suffer that wrath of neglect at some point in our lives. Take me, for example. I spent quite a few years not trying to "give". I mean, give any kind of emotions, or emotional support to anyone. Now, that I am pretty much ready to "give" there are not those around that need my giving. What I mean is that most men and women are strong enough on their own, especially those that I keep company with. So, I have to sit in prayer with Christ and give to him what I desire to give away. If I had not neglected the opportunity, when placed in front of me, then I wouldn't have to sit on some nights and suffer the wrath of that neglect. That is why the wilderness was created! And, if God created the wilderness, it has purpose. That purpose is to prepare you. Yes! You are deserving of preparation, for you are destined to dwell, permanently, in a place where everyone cannot be. This place is The way of holiness!!!!
Again, I ask, "Why is Holiness not a place desired to be in?" Write down your answer.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Saturday, May 14, 2011
We all we got... One
Acts 4;31-33 (KJV)
And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together: and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness.
And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that aught of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
Today's encouragement is concerning our need to shine, individually.
As you can tell from the text that this power given unto the apostles, and all that were gathered there with them, came after the group prayed. It is only right to speak about the circumstances that preceded this moment. Peter and John were preaching to some people when they were "obtained" by the priests, captain of the temple, and the Sadducees; all leaders within the Jewish tradition (Acts 4;1-3). As they were held and questioned concerning their "power" to preach and teach Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, began to boldly speak of Jesus Christ. (Sidenote: This is another one of those instances where I express my own awareness of being somewhat like Peter: Bold and Unashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ) Now after these individuals couldn't find any fault with Peter and John, they released them and this is where we pick up in today's encouragement.
See, Peter and John went back to their fellow disciples, friends, and all present, reporting what had occurred and then giving praise and honor to God they began to pray, as the scriptures record, "they lifted up their voice to God with one accord" (Acts 4;23-30). It is this 'one accord' that must be understood, by us: if we are to gain power over some of these issues that plague us; in and outside of the church; the building. Just as these individuals thought nothing of themselves, or their possessions, to section them up, they stood as 'one heart' and 'one soul'.
I would need to breakdown the three words within this morning's text for you. That way we will get an even better understanding about how we, the 'body' of Christ, can and must find our way to being on one accord.
In verse 31, we see that the place they were gathered togethe in was shook as a result of them praying. Let's see what the writer was expressing through that word 'prayed'.
Prayed: In the Greek; deomai (deh'-om-ahee): to beg [as binding oneself], as in petition. It's root word, deo (deh'-o), is used literally or figuratively, as to bind; think knitted together, interwoven, tied up together.
So we already see the positioning of these people as they get before the Lord. Next we look to their way of thought, heartwise.
In verse 32, we are told that this 'multitude' were of one heart and soul because they believed.
Believed: In the Greek; pisteuo (pist-yoo'-o): to have faith: in a person or thing. To give credit to, put your trust with. At it's base, peitho (pi'-tho), we see this faith, or credit, in Christ Jesus is due to conviction; a confidence by way of convincing words or evidence.
Is this becoming clear? Can you see how this group, and perhaps your congregation, are able to gain access to this 'power' to not only shake the place but boldly speak the Word of God: no matter who they are? This cuts right at individualism within a corporate body. What is necessary for us to see; to get the lid on this issue is these people's willingness to stick together, as a body, and not allow room for the individualism. How is that done?
In verse 32 as well, we see that these individuals struck self out by one group agreement. They had all things common: not thinking of what they possessed as being their own.
Common: In the Greek; koinos (koy-nos'): Probably derived from sun (soon), which is a word that denotes union with or togetherness; by way of association, compaionship, or process. And koinos means shared by all. Think about your congregation and it's shared belief in Christ Jesus: thus all of what you have, possessions and all, are common. No one has anything more (value or amount) than the next.
Is it clear now? When we, the children of God, bond together and truly see ourselves as Brothers and Sisters: to not have no more than the next, because we hold our position of belief in Christ Jesus; that he is owner of it all. And with our entire heart, love each other: to knit ourselves together in one jubilant effort of seeking all of what God has for us to perform; as one body.... the POWER that would be released will not only shake the place we would gather, but it will send signal to all around that Christ is present. Present to accomplish everything that is to be performed through that corporate body.
Stay encouraged Brother and Sisters. Know that when you submit to what Christ is performing through your congregation, you shall receive exactly what is to be had; to accomplish what His will is to be. Praying for all of you.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together: and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness.
And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that aught of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
Today's encouragement is concerning our need to shine, individually.
As you can tell from the text that this power given unto the apostles, and all that were gathered there with them, came after the group prayed. It is only right to speak about the circumstances that preceded this moment. Peter and John were preaching to some people when they were "obtained" by the priests, captain of the temple, and the Sadducees; all leaders within the Jewish tradition (Acts 4;1-3). As they were held and questioned concerning their "power" to preach and teach Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, began to boldly speak of Jesus Christ. (Sidenote: This is another one of those instances where I express my own awareness of being somewhat like Peter: Bold and Unashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ) Now after these individuals couldn't find any fault with Peter and John, they released them and this is where we pick up in today's encouragement.
See, Peter and John went back to their fellow disciples, friends, and all present, reporting what had occurred and then giving praise and honor to God they began to pray, as the scriptures record, "they lifted up their voice to God with one accord" (Acts 4;23-30). It is this 'one accord' that must be understood, by us: if we are to gain power over some of these issues that plague us; in and outside of the church; the building. Just as these individuals thought nothing of themselves, or their possessions, to section them up, they stood as 'one heart' and 'one soul'.
I would need to breakdown the three words within this morning's text for you. That way we will get an even better understanding about how we, the 'body' of Christ, can and must find our way to being on one accord.
In verse 31, we see that the place they were gathered togethe in was shook as a result of them praying. Let's see what the writer was expressing through that word 'prayed'.
Prayed: In the Greek; deomai (deh'-om-ahee): to beg [as binding oneself], as in petition. It's root word, deo (deh'-o), is used literally or figuratively, as to bind; think knitted together, interwoven, tied up together.
So we already see the positioning of these people as they get before the Lord. Next we look to their way of thought, heartwise.
In verse 32, we are told that this 'multitude' were of one heart and soul because they believed.
Believed: In the Greek; pisteuo (pist-yoo'-o): to have faith: in a person or thing. To give credit to, put your trust with. At it's base, peitho (pi'-tho), we see this faith, or credit, in Christ Jesus is due to conviction; a confidence by way of convincing words or evidence.
Is this becoming clear? Can you see how this group, and perhaps your congregation, are able to gain access to this 'power' to not only shake the place but boldly speak the Word of God: no matter who they are? This cuts right at individualism within a corporate body. What is necessary for us to see; to get the lid on this issue is these people's willingness to stick together, as a body, and not allow room for the individualism. How is that done?
In verse 32 as well, we see that these individuals struck self out by one group agreement. They had all things common: not thinking of what they possessed as being their own.
Common: In the Greek; koinos (koy-nos'): Probably derived from sun (soon), which is a word that denotes union with or togetherness; by way of association, compaionship, or process. And koinos means shared by all. Think about your congregation and it's shared belief in Christ Jesus: thus all of what you have, possessions and all, are common. No one has anything more (value or amount) than the next.
Is it clear now? When we, the children of God, bond together and truly see ourselves as Brothers and Sisters: to not have no more than the next, because we hold our position of belief in Christ Jesus; that he is owner of it all. And with our entire heart, love each other: to knit ourselves together in one jubilant effort of seeking all of what God has for us to perform; as one body.... the POWER that would be released will not only shake the place we would gather, but it will send signal to all around that Christ is present. Present to accomplish everything that is to be performed through that corporate body.
Stay encouraged Brother and Sisters. Know that when you submit to what Christ is performing through your congregation, you shall receive exactly what is to be had; to accomplish what His will is to be. Praying for all of you.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Friday, May 13, 2011
Imma say this one more time!!!!
Cannot post today, yet I encourage everyone to read and study John 9. It is definetely meant for the one who continues to seeks to find what is clearly right in front of their face.
"How many times do you have to hear?"~ a blindman
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
"How many times do you have to hear?"~ a blindman
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Promisemakers
Genesis 15;4-6 & 18;10-15 (KJV)
And behold, the word of the Lord came unto him, saying, This shall not be thine heir; but he that shall come forth out of thine own bowels shall be thine heir.
And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.
And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.
And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him.
Now Abraham and Sarah were old and well striken in age; and it ceased to be with Sarah after the manner or women.
Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?
And the Lord said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old?
Is any thing too hard for the Lord? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.
Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And he said, Nay; but thou didst laugh.
Hebrews 6;13-18 (KJV)
For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he swear by himself,
Saying, Surely blessings I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.
And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.
For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife.
Wherein God, willing more abundantly to show unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:
That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
Lord my prayer, this morning, is that we, your children begin to learn that you are our Father; to know us, to know our hearts, minds, and physical conditions. You see us Lord, and care for us and about us. Teach us, Lord, how to recognize that when you are working on our behalf we must give praise and leave you to perform that work: not stand within the midst of your work, and give our advice as to how to complete that work. Forgive us Lord for our prideful ways of control. Yes Lord, break us, if necessary but, I pray mercy first Lord. Continue to cover us in your blood, hedge us up away from the enemy when we need, and chastise us when we stray and forget your word. I thank you for all the ways you move on my behalf, seen and unseen. Now as your children, we know that you will return answer to our prayers and petitions, so we will be ever so careful to give your name all the honor, all the praise, and all the glory. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
I think about the land and house my Grandfather left for his future generations. Now, did he sit, with my Grandmother, and say, "These children will not have any ability of their own to buy their own house and land, so I guess we better make sure we leave them this bit."
No. If I had to guess, because I am sure my Mother will not know the exact reason either, unless she was present; with Granddaddy receiving the reason, his mindset was more like, "Let me leave this so they will always have a home to come to, if need be."
He thought about me, my siblings, cousins, and all our children. And, if we are mindful of his thoughts about us, we will make sure to ensure the parcel will be present for our grandchildren, while instilling in them the surety to replicate the thought of our Grandfather.
This is what today's encouragement is about. Understanding that you are the result of God's promise to Abraham. Just that simple. I would think that is a place where you can stand, bold, strong, and cheerful, while giving up a sho' nuff praise. I just did. Hallelujah!!!!!
Look at what God did just to ensure that you wouldn't have to endure the FULL IMPACT of Adam's sin. Stop! Think about how much of your life would be different: that sentence is very light compared to the unobstructed truth of what is mentally pictured when envisioning the difference of life if God didn't make his Convenant with Abraham. It doesn't take much to come to the understanding that most of our issues in life are based on our, own, internal symptoms. What do you mean Brova? I didn't have anything to do with this power company cutting off my lights. It ain't my 'internal symptoms' that makes my baby-mama act like she act. You got me f%$!ed up if you trying to tell me that it is my fault my daddy.....
I did say most. Yes, there are certain situations that you didn't have control over or were given human mercy in, but to sit there and blame the power company for not being merciful is not looking at yourself and remembering that ill-advised trip, with the girls, to the outlet mall in the desert. Not to memtion you, my Brother, accusing the mother of your child by implying her eractic behavior, and anger just showed up at the day of birth. Like it doesn't have anything to do with the broken promise you gave to her the night you "just had to get some". See, God knew all of that the day he sat down with Abraham. That is why God told Abraham, "I will bless thee". God understood this sin that so easily comes upon us, and we should be of an understanding that says, "Yes Lord! I thank you so much for your oath to Abraham that I will do nothing more than submit to you."
But instead, we go about our lives as if we made our own promises with ourselves. Look at what the writer of Hebrews states (v17). Willing more abundantly.... that's God, not you. Show unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel..... THAT'S GOD!!!!! Not none of us (laughing at the solid truth about us). Oh, I know some of you are red-faced, all swole up in the chest area, ready to punch me, but y'all know the truth. Some of you are still trying to justify to your children why you had to drain that college fund. Knowing on the day you started it, over 17 to 20 years ago, you promised yourself, your child, and God that you would not do nothing else but send Lil' Lady or Jr. to school with it. Yes! Times ARE rough. Things DO happen. We all ARE suffering in this 'down economy'. But the truth still remains, "You, by yourself, under your own power, made that promise." I ain't judging you for God knows I ain't keep a promise I made back in 2006, around July. Hey, but, a hit dog will holla..... Again, this IS encouraging.
You have to see things from Abraham's perspective. He is the recipient of this promise. I shouldn't have to pull y'all any further..... C'mon! See him? He is sitting there, listening to God tell him that he is about to become the father of God's promise! Abraham's child, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and so on are going to be the heirs of that promise! There better be at least one reading this standing up!!!!!!! For the realization of that promise is YOU!!!! You have been given access to that promise throught the submission of Christ Jesus. His desire to fulfill the will of God for his life brought God's promise to Abraham straight to your doorstep. I am, sitting, so thankful for the opportunty I have been given to represent God's promise to Abraham to all that I come in contact with that I can be patient, like Abraham, and wait for what my lot (the part of the promise set asisde for me) will be. That is the other side of the promise/oath/covenant that we have to be in recognition of. Patience. It is almost as dirty a word, to us humans, as submission is. LOL
Abraham, and Sarah, waited 25 years from the day of the promise to the actual day that the promise arrived. Yes, there were a few hiccups along the way; one in particular became exatly what God said he would become (read Genesis 16;1-12). But, when the promised arrived, that secured the truth of God keeping his word of promise. Not that he wouldn't have kept his word. That is what we must see, on the other side of the promise. That our patience is actually our faitb. Our faith in that God will keep his word. Should we continue to move as if God isn't moving?
What do you have the Bible for? Huh?
This is God, again, showing you that he is moving, on your behalf. So, exercise a little bit of patience. You have several examples within this Bible to show you hat occurs when you don't exercise the patience to "wait upon the Lord".
My Brothers and Sisters, today is just another opportunity for us, all of us, to exercise a little patience concerning what it is that God is bringing to you. He said he would. Now, submit yourself to that belief of God you possess and continue to walk out his will for your life. You CAN DO IT. For you are a child of Promise. God's Promise.
God don't make no mistakes..... Meditate on that!
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
And behold, the word of the Lord came unto him, saying, This shall not be thine heir; but he that shall come forth out of thine own bowels shall be thine heir.
And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.
And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.
And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him.
Now Abraham and Sarah were old and well striken in age; and it ceased to be with Sarah after the manner or women.
Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?
And the Lord said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old?
Is any thing too hard for the Lord? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.
Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And he said, Nay; but thou didst laugh.
Hebrews 6;13-18 (KJV)
For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he swear by himself,
Saying, Surely blessings I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.
And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.
For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife.
Wherein God, willing more abundantly to show unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:
That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
Lord my prayer, this morning, is that we, your children begin to learn that you are our Father; to know us, to know our hearts, minds, and physical conditions. You see us Lord, and care for us and about us. Teach us, Lord, how to recognize that when you are working on our behalf we must give praise and leave you to perform that work: not stand within the midst of your work, and give our advice as to how to complete that work. Forgive us Lord for our prideful ways of control. Yes Lord, break us, if necessary but, I pray mercy first Lord. Continue to cover us in your blood, hedge us up away from the enemy when we need, and chastise us when we stray and forget your word. I thank you for all the ways you move on my behalf, seen and unseen. Now as your children, we know that you will return answer to our prayers and petitions, so we will be ever so careful to give your name all the honor, all the praise, and all the glory. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
I think about the land and house my Grandfather left for his future generations. Now, did he sit, with my Grandmother, and say, "These children will not have any ability of their own to buy their own house and land, so I guess we better make sure we leave them this bit."
No. If I had to guess, because I am sure my Mother will not know the exact reason either, unless she was present; with Granddaddy receiving the reason, his mindset was more like, "Let me leave this so they will always have a home to come to, if need be."
He thought about me, my siblings, cousins, and all our children. And, if we are mindful of his thoughts about us, we will make sure to ensure the parcel will be present for our grandchildren, while instilling in them the surety to replicate the thought of our Grandfather.
This is what today's encouragement is about. Understanding that you are the result of God's promise to Abraham. Just that simple. I would think that is a place where you can stand, bold, strong, and cheerful, while giving up a sho' nuff praise. I just did. Hallelujah!!!!!
Look at what God did just to ensure that you wouldn't have to endure the FULL IMPACT of Adam's sin. Stop! Think about how much of your life would be different: that sentence is very light compared to the unobstructed truth of what is mentally pictured when envisioning the difference of life if God didn't make his Convenant with Abraham. It doesn't take much to come to the understanding that most of our issues in life are based on our, own, internal symptoms. What do you mean Brova? I didn't have anything to do with this power company cutting off my lights. It ain't my 'internal symptoms' that makes my baby-mama act like she act. You got me f%$!ed up if you trying to tell me that it is my fault my daddy.....
I did say most. Yes, there are certain situations that you didn't have control over or were given human mercy in, but to sit there and blame the power company for not being merciful is not looking at yourself and remembering that ill-advised trip, with the girls, to the outlet mall in the desert. Not to memtion you, my Brother, accusing the mother of your child by implying her eractic behavior, and anger just showed up at the day of birth. Like it doesn't have anything to do with the broken promise you gave to her the night you "just had to get some". See, God knew all of that the day he sat down with Abraham. That is why God told Abraham, "I will bless thee". God understood this sin that so easily comes upon us, and we should be of an understanding that says, "Yes Lord! I thank you so much for your oath to Abraham that I will do nothing more than submit to you."
But instead, we go about our lives as if we made our own promises with ourselves. Look at what the writer of Hebrews states (v17). Willing more abundantly.... that's God, not you. Show unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel..... THAT'S GOD!!!!! Not none of us (laughing at the solid truth about us). Oh, I know some of you are red-faced, all swole up in the chest area, ready to punch me, but y'all know the truth. Some of you are still trying to justify to your children why you had to drain that college fund. Knowing on the day you started it, over 17 to 20 years ago, you promised yourself, your child, and God that you would not do nothing else but send Lil' Lady or Jr. to school with it. Yes! Times ARE rough. Things DO happen. We all ARE suffering in this 'down economy'. But the truth still remains, "You, by yourself, under your own power, made that promise." I ain't judging you for God knows I ain't keep a promise I made back in 2006, around July. Hey, but, a hit dog will holla..... Again, this IS encouraging.
You have to see things from Abraham's perspective. He is the recipient of this promise. I shouldn't have to pull y'all any further..... C'mon! See him? He is sitting there, listening to God tell him that he is about to become the father of God's promise! Abraham's child, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and so on are going to be the heirs of that promise! There better be at least one reading this standing up!!!!!!! For the realization of that promise is YOU!!!! You have been given access to that promise throught the submission of Christ Jesus. His desire to fulfill the will of God for his life brought God's promise to Abraham straight to your doorstep. I am, sitting, so thankful for the opportunty I have been given to represent God's promise to Abraham to all that I come in contact with that I can be patient, like Abraham, and wait for what my lot (the part of the promise set asisde for me) will be. That is the other side of the promise/oath/covenant that we have to be in recognition of. Patience. It is almost as dirty a word, to us humans, as submission is. LOL
Abraham, and Sarah, waited 25 years from the day of the promise to the actual day that the promise arrived. Yes, there were a few hiccups along the way; one in particular became exatly what God said he would become (read Genesis 16;1-12). But, when the promised arrived, that secured the truth of God keeping his word of promise. Not that he wouldn't have kept his word. That is what we must see, on the other side of the promise. That our patience is actually our faitb. Our faith in that God will keep his word. Should we continue to move as if God isn't moving?
What do you have the Bible for? Huh?
This is God, again, showing you that he is moving, on your behalf. So, exercise a little bit of patience. You have several examples within this Bible to show you hat occurs when you don't exercise the patience to "wait upon the Lord".
My Brothers and Sisters, today is just another opportunity for us, all of us, to exercise a little patience concerning what it is that God is bringing to you. He said he would. Now, submit yourself to that belief of God you possess and continue to walk out his will for your life. You CAN DO IT. For you are a child of Promise. God's Promise.
God don't make no mistakes..... Meditate on that!
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Requesting......... What?
Hebrews 11;1 & 6 (KJV)
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
James 1;5-8 (KJV)
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
Acknowledged Biblical scholar William Barclay says, in his published commentary on the epistle of James, "We must remember how the asker must ask. We must ask without doubts. We must be sure of both the power and the desire of God to give. If we ask in doubt, our minds are like the broken water of the sea, driven hither and thither by any chance wind. James says vividly that such a person is someone with two souls, two minds. One believes, the other disbelieves, and the individual is a walking civil war in which trust and distrust of God wage a continual battle against each other."
I remember hearing a preacher say, "We, sometimes, suffer from 'parking lot' faith. What I mean to say is that like the times when you are in your vehicle, within a shopping center parking lot, you will drive about praying to the Lord heavily, with expectation, please Lord open up a space close. Please Lord, do it for your child Lord. And, when a space; a space close to the shopping center's entrance becomes available, you sing praises of joy to the Lord."
Then that preacher asked the congregation, "Why is it we cannot have that same faith for those larger issues in our lives?"
Today's encouragement is nothing more than a desire to see you not flip-flop, anymore, upon the outcome of whatever it is that you are believing God to perform on your behalf due to the request, prayer, or petition that you gave to him. The one thing that should be said, up front, is that your giving Christ the particular issue does constitute all answer, power to perform, and decision making on this issue, rest solely with God; for him to return unto you, the answer, in the way he desires; for you to have according to how his will, for your life, is arranged.
This hits, no, slams us down with the truth of what is our number one obstacle to submission to God. Us, not receiving what we asked for. Plain, and simple. And, if I'm lying, then I'm flying..... but, I have no plane ticket. What the writer of Hebrews shows us is that there is not, within the request of the asker, room for selfish request. Go back to Hebrews, verse 1. What is the substance of faith, in conjunction to its evidence? That substance is 'hoped for'. It ain't in no way, shape, or form, a given. This is actually me, preaching to myself. You all get the benefit of learning from this ignorant, country, child of God. LOL
See, to approach God, through petition to Christ Jesus, is actually you acknowledging that whatever the issue is, IT IS TOO BIG for you to 'figure out' aside from God's wisdom, power, or understanding (comprehension). That is why you are on your knees about it. Oops,..... I felt the shake of one reading this, saying, "I, actually, can 'figure out' most of my issues and don't need God."
To that bold soul, I give a Proverb: Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16;18 KJV)
Why is it necessary that we understand this, especially on this day? Because we all give our requests to the Lord, and it is placed upon my heart to alert those, like myself: who love to run back after placing the issue within the hand of the Lord, and wrestle his hand open to see if there is any possible way I can take it back; because I may be able help the Lord get it to me quicker, because I desire to get EXACTLY what it is I requested. This once again returns us back to the topic of 'Submission'. For if we were submitted, to securely know that God is (v6 of Hebrews), and that we will receive what is for us (v7 of James), then there wouldn't be such anxiety among those of us who walk after Christ Jesus. This is why James states, in his epistle, that we: the ones who lack wisdom, SHOULD ASK of God. Get it?..... We should know ourselves, and stop fooling ourselves, to begin to reach for all that will bring us what is needed. It is the thoughts of what is 'supposed to be had' that cause the blockage to submission. This is very difficult to express, but it is the truth and you need to register it, deep, within yourself. The only thing we all are 'suppose to have had' is hell and damnation, but through submission Christ Jesus made available, for you and I, life and life eternal.
This day's encouragement is just as I said at the top. Our chance to see our way to submitting to God; he is what we must need.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
James 1;5-8 (KJV)
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
Acknowledged Biblical scholar William Barclay says, in his published commentary on the epistle of James, "We must remember how the asker must ask. We must ask without doubts. We must be sure of both the power and the desire of God to give. If we ask in doubt, our minds are like the broken water of the sea, driven hither and thither by any chance wind. James says vividly that such a person is someone with two souls, two minds. One believes, the other disbelieves, and the individual is a walking civil war in which trust and distrust of God wage a continual battle against each other."
I remember hearing a preacher say, "We, sometimes, suffer from 'parking lot' faith. What I mean to say is that like the times when you are in your vehicle, within a shopping center parking lot, you will drive about praying to the Lord heavily, with expectation, please Lord open up a space close. Please Lord, do it for your child Lord. And, when a space; a space close to the shopping center's entrance becomes available, you sing praises of joy to the Lord."
Then that preacher asked the congregation, "Why is it we cannot have that same faith for those larger issues in our lives?"
Today's encouragement is nothing more than a desire to see you not flip-flop, anymore, upon the outcome of whatever it is that you are believing God to perform on your behalf due to the request, prayer, or petition that you gave to him. The one thing that should be said, up front, is that your giving Christ the particular issue does constitute all answer, power to perform, and decision making on this issue, rest solely with God; for him to return unto you, the answer, in the way he desires; for you to have according to how his will, for your life, is arranged.
This hits, no, slams us down with the truth of what is our number one obstacle to submission to God. Us, not receiving what we asked for. Plain, and simple. And, if I'm lying, then I'm flying..... but, I have no plane ticket. What the writer of Hebrews shows us is that there is not, within the request of the asker, room for selfish request. Go back to Hebrews, verse 1. What is the substance of faith, in conjunction to its evidence? That substance is 'hoped for'. It ain't in no way, shape, or form, a given. This is actually me, preaching to myself. You all get the benefit of learning from this ignorant, country, child of God. LOL
See, to approach God, through petition to Christ Jesus, is actually you acknowledging that whatever the issue is, IT IS TOO BIG for you to 'figure out' aside from God's wisdom, power, or understanding (comprehension). That is why you are on your knees about it. Oops,..... I felt the shake of one reading this, saying, "I, actually, can 'figure out' most of my issues and don't need God."
To that bold soul, I give a Proverb: Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16;18 KJV)
Why is it necessary that we understand this, especially on this day? Because we all give our requests to the Lord, and it is placed upon my heart to alert those, like myself: who love to run back after placing the issue within the hand of the Lord, and wrestle his hand open to see if there is any possible way I can take it back; because I may be able help the Lord get it to me quicker, because I desire to get EXACTLY what it is I requested. This once again returns us back to the topic of 'Submission'. For if we were submitted, to securely know that God is (v6 of Hebrews), and that we will receive what is for us (v7 of James), then there wouldn't be such anxiety among those of us who walk after Christ Jesus. This is why James states, in his epistle, that we: the ones who lack wisdom, SHOULD ASK of God. Get it?..... We should know ourselves, and stop fooling ourselves, to begin to reach for all that will bring us what is needed. It is the thoughts of what is 'supposed to be had' that cause the blockage to submission. This is very difficult to express, but it is the truth and you need to register it, deep, within yourself. The only thing we all are 'suppose to have had' is hell and damnation, but through submission Christ Jesus made available, for you and I, life and life eternal.
This day's encouragement is just as I said at the top. Our chance to see our way to submitting to God; he is what we must need.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Read the Instuctions (Trust that they will lead you to safety)
Matthew 14;25-31 (KJV)
And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
Ephesians 5;21-33
Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body.
Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
I HONESTLY AM BEING LED TO CONNECT THESE TWO PASSAGES AND LET YOU KNOW THAT IT IS FOR THOSE CURRENTLY QUESTIONING MARRIAGE. WHETHER TO BE WED, STAY MARRIED, OR THE ENDING. THIS IS FOR ALL OF US!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I was awaken this morning to these two passages facing each other. Through prayer, I confessed that I didn't desire to, publically, comment on any stage of marriage; from an instructional standpoint, due to the failure of my marriage. Plus, I do not desire to call into question any of the actions my ex-wife may have committed. I have dealt with all of that; to come to terms with what has occurred: right or wrong. What Christ directed me to concentrate on is actually focused between Matthew (14;27) and Ephesians (5;32), but these entire passages: in their total combination, are 'good' for learning; for the single person, married spouse, or divorcee with hopes, prayers, and desire to be married again. Yes!!!! I got a little fearful too, but as soon as I released myself I saw the glorious benefit Christ is given to us through this presentation.
We must get a good, overall view of Peter in this section of Matthew's account. First, and foremost, Peter was, by far, the boldest of the disciples: his zeal in protecting Christ, willingness to speak the truth of who Jesus truly was; the Christ, and his quick utterance of devout partnership with Christ, "I will not ever deny you."
This is also a few of the reasons why I confess that Peter is my favorite apostle. I like to think I have his passion for alerting those I come into contact with about Christ, and that I am a bit 'roughshot' as a representor of the Gospel. Read about him, you will understand about me a little better.
Anyway, in this text Peter, along with the other disciples, are out on the water: a sea of water, so their senses are affected by the physically present set of circumstances. Also, it at the darkest point of the night (I pray this registers to you), and as the text shows these individuals are by themselves in this boat. In the same situation, surrounded by the same set of physical circumstances; being beat about upon the sea by the wind (v24). When Christ comes unto them, walking on the water, they become fearful. It is at this point the area of marriage comes into view. The times when the hardness, harshness, difficulty, and press of "what do we do" occurs.
These individuals have never experienced this type of situation, especially since thy began walking with Christ. It is night; the darkest part of the night, this boat (situation) is rocking, being tossed around, they probably are sick to their stomache, probably crying, praying. And by the text, we know without doubt they are scared because as soon a they see Christ coming toward them, they cry out. More like scream I would surmize. This is probably what a section of you single people envision marriage to be like: even if you are in church. Maybe that is why Paul, in Ephesians, stated that marriage IS a mystery? Maybe your mind, as a single person, cannot fully comprehend the situation (being in the boat) until you are actually in it?
Seeing their state of panic, not recognizing that he is present with them, Christ calls out to them to, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid."
Now, it is at this point in being shown these two passages that Christ said, to me, "Do you see how Peter walked out, physically, what Paul wrote to the Ephesians concerning marriage?" This is where I raised up and said back to Christ, "Are you stating that I didn't perform, faithfully, according to Ephesians, the instructions given to the husband?"
"Well son, if you allow me to show you, you will actually be able to see the EXACT place of divorce."
Okay, back to Peter. He, hearing the familiar voice; but not exactly sure it is Christ, calls out to him and asked for permission to be where Christ is standing a that very moment. (Here is the place in the passage that is expressly meant for us divorcees). Christ tells him, "Come". Understand? There wasn't no instruction other than 'come'. Just like in Ephesians, the instructions are clear, simple, easy, with room for more inquiry if needed. Peter stepped out on an unfamiliar substance: unfamiliar to his natural senses, his reasoning about physical properites of water to man's weight, and very unfamiliar to his internal warning system called "Trust". Not to mention the mindset of those who were in the boat (situation) with him. They are witnessing this man; their fellow student of Christ Jesus, get out onto this unfamiliar place, and he ain't sinking!!!!! What is it doing to their state of being; their solidification of trust in Christ? (Run back to Ephesians 5;25-26) Watching Peter go before them, boldly, depending only on the simple instruction of Christ HAD TO readjust these individuals mindset concerning any further instruction given by Christ. This is why it is very important we, divorcees, see what is being shown at this point. Peter didn't concern himself with the 'what ifs' before stepping out onto the water, and as he began walking he didn't take his eyes off Christ. This is what I have to believe is why he, Peter, was as bold as he was. What do I mean? The boldness placed within him was the character trait that moved Peter to not only ask to go out onto the sea; to be with Christ, but it is also what propelled him to make the step. Something I didn't allow when my marriage was being tossed, and beat about by the wind.
Which brings us to the area of the passage that is for those who are still married and maybe encountering that situation (the boat). Peter, is walking out to Christ and he is now "seeing" the wind. Seeing it get a little more forceful, rapid, rough to his flesh, and it is getting scary. His warning system "Trust" goes to DEFCON 6, which is registering imminent death is coming. For this reason, most of us wouldn't blame Peter for becoming fearful, but once again if we bounce, real quickly, over to what Paul wrote to those individuals in Ephesus, (Ephesians 5;22, 25, 33,) we can see that if Peter would not have taken his focus off Christ Jesus, he wouldn't have given acknowledgement to the wind. Why can that be said? Well, like most married people who may be sinking due to 'looking' at all of what they are dealing with, they are crying out, to Christ. "Lord, save me." (Matthew 14;30b)
And, this presentation has come, just like Christ's outstretched hand that reached for a sinking Peter, to grasp all of us: no matter where we are when it comes to marriage. That is why we must study those set of scriptures in Ephesians in conjunction to this passage in Matthew. It is because Christ is asking us, just like he asked Peter, "O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" (The place of divorce)
We have been given a playbook, of sorts, to follow for success. If we pay more attention to the situation, circumstance, or our reluctance to trust then we will sink. Our efforts to have a successful marriage will come under jeopardy of failure. Yes! This is another bitter pill we have to swallow. If I were to place all of my actions committed during my marriage against the instructions given to me by Christ, I would definetely see where I was taken out: by the wind as soon as I stepped out of the boat. For I allowed for my attention to be immediately consumed by it. I didn't focus on Christ at all. And, when I cried out to Christ for assisance my ex had already found another way to save herself. Leaving me to have to focus on Christ for myself. Feelings of failure, depression, mistrust, foolishness, and doubt I gave to Christ, for him to save me out of the aftermath of the sinking. Again, this probably why Paul made the statement that it is a 'mystery', because all of those instructions are speaking solely to Christ and the church. This presentation is not mainly meant for singles, married couples, or divorcees. No, it is meant for Christ's church; his bride; his body. Yes, I speak of us; all of us. We must be prepared for reception of our Bridegroom more than we prepare ourselves for a wife or husband (earthly).
Prayerfully, this given presentation has reached the individuals it is meant to reach. Know that Christ is right there, with you, instructing you and ready to reach for you in the moments of blowing winds, when you may lose focus of him. He saved me from sinking.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
Ephesians 5;21-33
Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body.
Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
I HONESTLY AM BEING LED TO CONNECT THESE TWO PASSAGES AND LET YOU KNOW THAT IT IS FOR THOSE CURRENTLY QUESTIONING MARRIAGE. WHETHER TO BE WED, STAY MARRIED, OR THE ENDING. THIS IS FOR ALL OF US!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I was awaken this morning to these two passages facing each other. Through prayer, I confessed that I didn't desire to, publically, comment on any stage of marriage; from an instructional standpoint, due to the failure of my marriage. Plus, I do not desire to call into question any of the actions my ex-wife may have committed. I have dealt with all of that; to come to terms with what has occurred: right or wrong. What Christ directed me to concentrate on is actually focused between Matthew (14;27) and Ephesians (5;32), but these entire passages: in their total combination, are 'good' for learning; for the single person, married spouse, or divorcee with hopes, prayers, and desire to be married again. Yes!!!! I got a little fearful too, but as soon as I released myself I saw the glorious benefit Christ is given to us through this presentation.
We must get a good, overall view of Peter in this section of Matthew's account. First, and foremost, Peter was, by far, the boldest of the disciples: his zeal in protecting Christ, willingness to speak the truth of who Jesus truly was; the Christ, and his quick utterance of devout partnership with Christ, "I will not ever deny you."
This is also a few of the reasons why I confess that Peter is my favorite apostle. I like to think I have his passion for alerting those I come into contact with about Christ, and that I am a bit 'roughshot' as a representor of the Gospel. Read about him, you will understand about me a little better.
Anyway, in this text Peter, along with the other disciples, are out on the water: a sea of water, so their senses are affected by the physically present set of circumstances. Also, it at the darkest point of the night (I pray this registers to you), and as the text shows these individuals are by themselves in this boat. In the same situation, surrounded by the same set of physical circumstances; being beat about upon the sea by the wind (v24). When Christ comes unto them, walking on the water, they become fearful. It is at this point the area of marriage comes into view. The times when the hardness, harshness, difficulty, and press of "what do we do" occurs.
These individuals have never experienced this type of situation, especially since thy began walking with Christ. It is night; the darkest part of the night, this boat (situation) is rocking, being tossed around, they probably are sick to their stomache, probably crying, praying. And by the text, we know without doubt they are scared because as soon a they see Christ coming toward them, they cry out. More like scream I would surmize. This is probably what a section of you single people envision marriage to be like: even if you are in church. Maybe that is why Paul, in Ephesians, stated that marriage IS a mystery? Maybe your mind, as a single person, cannot fully comprehend the situation (being in the boat) until you are actually in it?
Seeing their state of panic, not recognizing that he is present with them, Christ calls out to them to, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid."
Now, it is at this point in being shown these two passages that Christ said, to me, "Do you see how Peter walked out, physically, what Paul wrote to the Ephesians concerning marriage?" This is where I raised up and said back to Christ, "Are you stating that I didn't perform, faithfully, according to Ephesians, the instructions given to the husband?"
"Well son, if you allow me to show you, you will actually be able to see the EXACT place of divorce."
Okay, back to Peter. He, hearing the familiar voice; but not exactly sure it is Christ, calls out to him and asked for permission to be where Christ is standing a that very moment. (Here is the place in the passage that is expressly meant for us divorcees). Christ tells him, "Come". Understand? There wasn't no instruction other than 'come'. Just like in Ephesians, the instructions are clear, simple, easy, with room for more inquiry if needed. Peter stepped out on an unfamiliar substance: unfamiliar to his natural senses, his reasoning about physical properites of water to man's weight, and very unfamiliar to his internal warning system called "Trust". Not to mention the mindset of those who were in the boat (situation) with him. They are witnessing this man; their fellow student of Christ Jesus, get out onto this unfamiliar place, and he ain't sinking!!!!! What is it doing to their state of being; their solidification of trust in Christ? (Run back to Ephesians 5;25-26) Watching Peter go before them, boldly, depending only on the simple instruction of Christ HAD TO readjust these individuals mindset concerning any further instruction given by Christ. This is why it is very important we, divorcees, see what is being shown at this point. Peter didn't concern himself with the 'what ifs' before stepping out onto the water, and as he began walking he didn't take his eyes off Christ. This is what I have to believe is why he, Peter, was as bold as he was. What do I mean? The boldness placed within him was the character trait that moved Peter to not only ask to go out onto the sea; to be with Christ, but it is also what propelled him to make the step. Something I didn't allow when my marriage was being tossed, and beat about by the wind.
Which brings us to the area of the passage that is for those who are still married and maybe encountering that situation (the boat). Peter, is walking out to Christ and he is now "seeing" the wind. Seeing it get a little more forceful, rapid, rough to his flesh, and it is getting scary. His warning system "Trust" goes to DEFCON 6, which is registering imminent death is coming. For this reason, most of us wouldn't blame Peter for becoming fearful, but once again if we bounce, real quickly, over to what Paul wrote to those individuals in Ephesus, (Ephesians 5;22, 25, 33,) we can see that if Peter would not have taken his focus off Christ Jesus, he wouldn't have given acknowledgement to the wind. Why can that be said? Well, like most married people who may be sinking due to 'looking' at all of what they are dealing with, they are crying out, to Christ. "Lord, save me." (Matthew 14;30b)
And, this presentation has come, just like Christ's outstretched hand that reached for a sinking Peter, to grasp all of us: no matter where we are when it comes to marriage. That is why we must study those set of scriptures in Ephesians in conjunction to this passage in Matthew. It is because Christ is asking us, just like he asked Peter, "O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" (The place of divorce)
We have been given a playbook, of sorts, to follow for success. If we pay more attention to the situation, circumstance, or our reluctance to trust then we will sink. Our efforts to have a successful marriage will come under jeopardy of failure. Yes! This is another bitter pill we have to swallow. If I were to place all of my actions committed during my marriage against the instructions given to me by Christ, I would definetely see where I was taken out: by the wind as soon as I stepped out of the boat. For I allowed for my attention to be immediately consumed by it. I didn't focus on Christ at all. And, when I cried out to Christ for assisance my ex had already found another way to save herself. Leaving me to have to focus on Christ for myself. Feelings of failure, depression, mistrust, foolishness, and doubt I gave to Christ, for him to save me out of the aftermath of the sinking. Again, this probably why Paul made the statement that it is a 'mystery', because all of those instructions are speaking solely to Christ and the church. This presentation is not mainly meant for singles, married couples, or divorcees. No, it is meant for Christ's church; his bride; his body. Yes, I speak of us; all of us. We must be prepared for reception of our Bridegroom more than we prepare ourselves for a wife or husband (earthly).
Prayerfully, this given presentation has reached the individuals it is meant to reach. Know that Christ is right there, with you, instructing you and ready to reach for you in the moments of blowing winds, when you may lose focus of him. He saved me from sinking.
Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst
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