It Is Your Rightful Place

Judges 11;1-10 (KJV)

Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty man of valor, and he was the son of a harlot: and Gilead begat Jephthah.
And Gilead's wife bare him sons; and his wife's sons grew up, and they thrust out Jephthah, and said unto him, Thou shalt not inherit in our father's house; for thou art the son of a strange woman.
Then Jephthah fled from his brethren, and dwelt in the land of Tob: and there were gathered vain men to Jephthah, and went out with him.
And it came to pass in process of time, that the children of Ammon made war against Israel.
And it was so, that when the children of Ammon made war against Israel, the elders of Gilead went to fetch Jephthah out of the land of Tob:
And they said unto Jephthah, Come, and be our captain, that we may fight with the children of Ammon.
And Jephthah said unto the elders of Gilead, Did not ye hate me, and expel me out of my father's house? and why are ye come unto me now when ye are in distress?
And the elders of Gilead said unto Jephthah, Therefore we turn again to thee now, that thou mayest go with us, and fight against the children of Ammon, and be our head over all the inhabitants of Gilead.
And Jephthah said unto the elders of Gilead, If ye bring me home again to fight against the children of Ammon, and the Lord deliver them before me, shall I be your head?
And the elders of Gilead said unto Jephthah, The Lord be witness between us, if we do not so according to thy words.


The only view, I think, that can be seen from this passage is two-fold. Sort of a double vision. We have Jephthah side (to do our best to draw from him), and the side of the elders of Gilead (to, again, draw from their state of emergency). Before I present the encouragement, I desire to alert all men who read this, "Please, if you are a father and not with (married to) the mother of your child, this could be of some GREAT assist to you."

First off let's get the obivous out of the way. Jephthah was, by mentioning, the oldest of his father's sons yet he was not one born to Gilead's wife. Yes, he is Gilead's son. Now I just swiped at the aforementioned Brothers, but maybe they head was turned. Again, Jephthah's brothers (the ones we would called legitimate, or rightful) made Jephthah leave their father's house. Actually the scriptures record that they, "thrust out Jephthah". They did so with a harsh reminder to Jephthah as well. My pondering, upon being lead to this passage, was, "Where is Gilead in all of this?" Another swipe just went forward.

Fathers, especially those fathers that are not active in the lives of the child. Go speak for your child. Speak with your child. There can be no greater tragedy than that of a fatherless child. Do you see, by just these first two verses, the mindset that was placed upon Jephthah? Now, insert your child's name in place of Jephthah's name. I needed to put that out there before getting to the encouragement. Fathers!!!!! Go see about your children.


Today's encouragement has to be seen in the words of the elders, in verse 6, when they went to go seek out Jephthah. That is why the title is what it is. It is time for you to go back and claim that placement which belonged to you from the start. No longer are you to sit, wherever it is you are sitting, in whatever defeated mindset you have, surrounded by people who are only present because they know you have more within you than you realize yourself. Rise up and reclaim your rightful place. You are a child of God. God!!! God: who owns all the cattle on all the hills. God: who told the waves exactly how far they could go upon the sands of the beaches. God: who spoke light into exsistence. God: the bginning and the end; to know the end from the beginning. And, God: your Creator; your Father; to know you have purpose, because he created you on purpose.

So what, you got placed in front of a group of people who told you that you didn't belong. How do they know that? Do you not know that you made it to there? To that place where they are at! They didn't come to where you were, no, you had to reach the place where they stand. Why is it you DON'T belong there? You better raise your head and continue to BE THERE until God shows you AND THEM that you are suppose to be there.

So what, the people at the gym are driving expensive, europeon, touring sedans and wearing designer labeled clothes to workout in everyday. You pay your membership dues right along with planning the correct public transit route so you can workout and have enough time to make it to your evening class at the local community college. That gym equipment doesn't care, nor do the fitness center employees care. If the other gym members have a problem with your mode of transportation or "level" of education, allow for your Father in heaven to turn that gym into a private, workout establishment for one: You.

So what, that dude just slammed the door in your face behind some cold, emotionless, statement concerning the baby you two share, "That ain't my kid. Now, bye." You continue to raise that child. That bessing given by God. Because that child has purpose, and you raise that child with purpose. Yes, you will have to sacrifice, and maybe even endure a few more times of having that dude slam that door in your face. But, did you notice that he kept slamming the same door, while all along you kept having to come from a different address. One was your mama's address, the next was that apartment over off Wrightsboro Rd. And then, there was that address to that townhouse over by Westside High School. Finally, the last time you remember him slamming that same door, you had to come all the way, burning up your gas, in your vehicle, from the address of that home in Jones Creek. The one that is close to one of the highest performing middle schools in your city. As well as being close to your new place of employment, which now affords you the opportunity to begin a correct "college" fund for your child instead of the savings plan you have been putting some of your extra money into. All of this, you have been doing, all while he kept slamming the same door.


Prayerfully, all of these examples have gotten some of you to the headspace to see that when God set something in motion, it will be realized. It doesn't matter your circumstamces or status. You can be a child of a prostitute, that doesn't matter. You can not have best of anything, that doesn't matter. You can be a woman who is raising a child on her own, that doesn't matter. You can be a man that doesn't have the wherewithal to get to your child, that doesn't matter. All that matters is that you do not STOP! You do not abdicate that rightful position. God created you on purpose: with purpose. It is in you to reach where he said you would go. You are not an accident, you were not born by happen stance. You have a place and a position that God set for you. It is time to shake off whatever has been said, is being said, or whatever might be said, and begin to move closer to your rightful place within this life. Remember, it is your place to claim.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

No to Weary. No to Faint

Isaiah 40;28-31 (KJV)

Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.
He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.
Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:
But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Galatians 6;7-10 (KJV)

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.


Today, I give away PURE, ONE HUNDRED PERCENT, UNADULTERATED,CANNOT BE DISMISSED, ENCOURAGEMENT!!!


There are those who would come by this blog, based on the title, and say, "What is the fellowship all about?" I hope that by now they, who do stop by, will not miss that this blog is (at it's core) another opportunity to show the world Christ Jesus, and their own, personal opportunity to receive Christ Jesus as their Lord and Savior; thereby receiving Salvation. This blog, also, is a way for those (already within the body of Christ; the church) who may be low, feeling close to empty, or down right tired of this world and how it does an evil 'two-step' upon your being, can sit for awhile and receive ENCOURAGEMENT to be able to continue forth. For this world IS NOT our end!!! Hallelujah!!!

What is present to ENCOURAGE us on today is easy to see. These two passages pretty much speak for themselves. I am confident that when you attain to study them, or return frequently to your Bible (dogear the pages where the scriptures are at) to re-read, you will BE ENCOURAGED. What has to be spoken about before I get on with the rest of my day is that between Isaiah and Paul (Paul wrote the letter to the Galatians) we have to be able to at least laugh at weariness and fainting. We, now, have their mode of operation well within sight through knowledge of these two, separate scriptures. No more do we have to stand, in front of these two: weary and faint, and call them victors. NO! No more are we to walk, cowardly, about wondering if these two: weary and faint will come upon us like two of New York city's boldest muggers. NO! My Brother, my Sister, today is the day you have received ENCOURAGEMENT that will catapult you into, "I can't be easily stopped now".

Please, study (read and attain to possess) these Truths that are within the scriptures. Seriously, with all honest effort, get this committed to memory. For those times when it will be necessary to pull to the front of your mind; to assist you in reaching in between the shoulders of weary and faint; to grab hold to the next portion of where you are moving to. Do not brush this ENCOURAGEMENT off as just another set of words, grouped together to form a few "nice" sentences. Understand that this is not to make you "feel good", NO, this is ENCOURAGEMENT to push you towards your destination. Yes, your feet hurt, and you may desire to listen to weary, but this ENCOURAGEMENT showed up to get you turn your head and look towards your goal. "PAY ATTENTION TO THAT!!!", is what this ENCOURAGEMENT is screaming at you.
Yes, those people do seem to be having a great life, and they surely seem to not be concerned about what Christ Jesus thinks, but this ENCOURAGEMENT is present to focus you on what Christ Jesus desires you to be concerned with and not faint. "They will receive what is meant for them, according to how they choose to live. Do not concern yourself with what they are doing or not doing.", is what this ENCOUREMENT speaks to you.

As I get prepared to continue forth, in my day, I pray that you all would receive. It is not a simple formula of read this blog, and "feel" better. But, it is as simple as BE ENCOURAGED!!!


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

I Told Jesus About Your Condition

Matthew 8;5-13 (KJV)

And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,
And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.
And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him.
The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.
For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
When Jesus heard it, he marveled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great a faith, no, not in Israel.
And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Issac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.
But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.


Considering this is an interaction between a man (a man of authority) and Christ Jesus, we must get something straight off the top. Either this Roman centurion heard about all of what Jesus was doing, and believed it. Or, he had to have witnessed him speaking and/or performing a miracle to come to Christ Jesus asking for a healing of his servant. Then, you must also think about the connection this Roman centurion had to this particular servant even to seek Christ Jesus out, to ask for that servant's restoration of health. I mean the centurion did say, of himself, that he had "authority". He did state that the servant was GRIEVOUSLY TORMENTED. He also stated that he could make the simplest of commands and they would be carried out immediately.

I paint this picture for you because I desire, yes it is my desire, that you reach that place we all know humans can reach, especially when they in power, whenever they have the ability to directly affect the condition of another within their care, scope, or are charged with that person's being. C'mon, y'all know where I am going with this. Most people, when in charge of others that do no benefit to the process of the person in charge, will 'throw the person away'. Yes! They will! Perfect example: Enron Corporation. Need I explain further?

So, today's encouragement is to get all of us to see exactly why Christ Jesus had to make the statement he did concerning the whole of Israel. Which isn't that difficult to see. And, it also the exact reason why I was lead to this particular scripture in the first place. This is so good that it might make you go somewhere and sit down. LOL... What we have to see here is the FAITH of the Roman centurion. He came to Christ Jesus acknowledging Jesus as above him in authority. He even went so far as to show Jesus, through explanation of his own understanding of authority, why he is standing before him calling him Lord. Oh! And, what continues to throw me is that he showed his faith in all humbleness. "I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof", is this dude's position standing in front of Christ Jesus. Ready for what's going to make you sit down? You sure you ready?.....

This centurion came to Christ Jesus, with this position of humbleness, acknowledging Christ's authority, (and even not having knowledge that Jesus is the Christ) to seek the restoration of another person. Re-read this again. No! Let this truly sink in.

Can you see, now, why Christ Jesus had to make the statement about Israel? Partly because, yes, there was not so great a faith in all of Israel. That is what Christ Jesus explained. But, added on to that this centurion faith was for the restoration of another that had never met Christ Jesus: to see that the other person would be healed just because this centurion sought out Christ Jesus. Where is our level of faith at on this day? Is high enough to believe Christ for the peace you been seeking since last week? Is that faith strong enough to get you over to that family member's house to mend that broken fence between you two? Could the faith be lasting enough to hope that the ex, who broke your heart all those years ago, can be a better person today; even though you do not have to nor have desire to lay eyes on him/her again? How about this one?

Is your faith good enough to go before Christ Jesus, and you know he IS the Christ, on behalf of another that doesn't know about Christ Jesus, or probably will not acknowledge Christ Jesus? To seek that person's restoration? Would you do that? Yes, it is a right now question that needs the right now answer. Seriously, there is a person out there, today, that is in desparate need of Christ's wonder working power, and it takes that wonder-working faith. That faith that would propel us to our knees; to seek Christ Jesus; to get us to ask for the restoration of peace, comfort, joy, strength, and eternal life of another we are connected to. There is, right now, someone within your sphere of influence, someone you are in charge of, someone who you have authority over, who IS hurting (grievously) and all that could be needed for them to be restored is for you to go see Christ Jesus. To ask for them.

I, personally, am at the feet of Christ for someone. This particular person is going to have restoration because I know Christ Jesus, and he would not desire that this individual still have to deal with such hurt and brokenness. I also know that as soon as I alert Christ Jesus to their condition, he will heal in that selfsame hour. To have your healing!!!!! Trust!!!! Christ Jesus has healed you!!! Hallelujah!!!! Please, Brothers and Sisters, do not allow one more day to pass now that you are in front of Christ Jesus, make sure someone else will receive of his power too. Thank you Jesus, for prompting the writing of this blog post. Now, I await all the praise reports that will find their way back to this blog post, so that even more of your power will go forth. Oh, thank you Lord.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

I Need Love

1 Corinthians 13 (KJV)

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.


A bit of the song, 'Wait for Love', by Luther Vandross

I remember, not so long ago, I was just a lonely person with a lonely heart. I was hoping there could one day be,.... be a chance for me to get the Love that I'd been missing. Sometimes Love takes a long time. But, wait for Love, and you're gonna get the chance to Love. Wait for Love.


Today's encouragement is short and sweet. Actually it is more of an instruction. Since there are those of us who have been a bit jaded by whatever circumstances or past experiences we have had, we must make sure that we go back to grasp at what Love is. Do not quickly dismiss this statement/action before you seriously cast your eyesight at how you conduct yourself when the opportunity of thinking about Love comes around. Yup! Just when THINKING about Love is all you have to do.

As I was listening to this song, it struck me that whenever the opportunity to think about Love comes around, I am not hopeful. I cannot see myself enduring the process of Love, and to a degree I do not think I believe. Surely, there is no bearing Love. This is the thought I had. Now, where is the encouragement/assignment at in this: for today? It is for me (and you can if you desire) to get a proper understanding about Love. That is why 1 Corinthians 13 is the scripture of today.

What has to be well understood is no matter where God takes me, to accomplish whatever He has for me, if there is not Love..... then on the backside of that, I can "see" that there are some things that I will not know, and that is not for me to concern myself about because all will be known on the day I meet Christ Jesus. The stuff in the middle is where I can and probably should concentrate. To see that what Love performs, asks, and even requires is not anywhere near a feeling. It is, if I can say, cousin to an action. If not the action itself.

So, for those that are able to identify with me, it is time to go back to class and learn about Love. Oh! and in case you are those types that need to have a syllabus. Here it is:


1 John 4;16-21

And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgement: because as he is, so are we in this world.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
We love him, because he first loved us.
If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?
And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

This Is Only New To You

Isaiah 55;8-9 (KJV)

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

1 Corinthians 2;9-11 (KJV)

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
For what man knoweth the things of man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

1 Corinthians 13;12 (KJV)

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.


WHAT YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW.... BUT, WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW, WILL BE KNOWN.


Everyone knows the scripture, Hebrews 11;1, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
Now, why is it then, there are so many who would sit, together, and do their best to say that the knowledge they possess concerning God, Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and all other matters of the word of God is correct, and what you may know is incorrect? Why can't we all just agree on what we all know to be true, and wait for the rest to be shown? These are just questions, retorical at best, in which I roll around in my head. I mean, I would like to think God can handle me asking: he will provide answer, so maybe you can handle it too. Maybe?

Anyway, tonight's encouragement is all about us getting a VERY GOOD understanding that the Word of God is just that.... The Word of God. Not the word of that dude that sounds good when he reads it. Not even the word of Brova Stokes because what you read might tickle your funnybone, or provoke you to take an inward glance at yourself. No! This still remains the all-inclusive Word of God.

Now, where we, as man, like to get entangled is in between the presentation of the word, but if there is correct presentation of the Word of God then we can "see" it because each one of us has, resting in us, the Spirit of God (the Holy Spirit). For example, this right here, this encouragement, is meant to do nothing more than to PUSH you back to the Word of God, and by that action you get opportunity to learn more of God, more about God, and more of what God desires you to know. But!!!!!, keep in mind that there are limitations. You may not get to know all of God. At least not until you have opportunity to meet him; in heaven. Again, something that causes some to bristle up about just because I mention it. "Who are you to tell me that I cannot know about God?"
I didn't tell you that, God told you that. Go back to the scripture in Isaiah. This is God speaking through the prophet Isaiah. He says that his thoughts are not our thoughts. His ways higher than our ways. You tell me if you will or have come close to knowing the entire mind of God. If you say you have, I would have to pray for you because I would fear something occurring to "show" you the truth.

Yes, we have the Bible: the accepted and agreed upon Word of God, but even if you read IT cover to cover, you still would find something new upon the next time you open to read. Oh yes, you would. For that reason alone, you should know that there are still some things you do not fully have knowledge of about God. Here is one for all of us to meditate upon. God, Christ Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Just that. Meditate upon that. Seriously, take the time to sit, and really learn what you may not know about the Godhead. I refer to the co-exsistance as the 'Trinity'. Some say, "Godhead". But, what I ask this for is to get you to see that the knowledge you have can be added upon. To say it cannot is Pride.

The time is present Brothers and Sisters, for us to get back to what God says, and what he didn't say. We have allowed for alot to be added and taken away. Do I have all the answers? No. What I do have is the humble eyesight to understand that the little I do possess is to not be used in amanner to blind you. My bit of information is only to point you in the direction of God: Christ Jesus. For it is only by permission that I even get to sit and give this out to you. I would dare not begin to confuse or conceal any information about God, Christ Jesus, or the Holy Spirit that would free you, and move you closer to what it is that God has for you. Sam Cooke had a song, 'A Change Is Gonna Come', and that is the truth. Change is coming!!! God wants us, his children, to be shown the ABSOLUTE TRUTH. No matter how little of it or great amount of it will be shown, we must receive it. Now, this is your chance. First, if you do not know Christ Jesus for yourself, you have to come into relationship with him, for that is your entrance way to the Father; to God. John 14;6 states, "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
Again, this is not my opinion. This is the Word of God. Once you accept Christ Jesus as your own personal Lord and Savior, you will begin to receive some this truth: this truth by which you will begin to live a new life; a more abundant life. Reminding you, this is not a guess. This is Truth. So, what else is there for me to say?..... If you do not have a place of worship, fellowship, or just to be given answer to some of the questions that you may have tonight. I encourage you to go to your local church. Seek out a good Bible believing church or Bible Study group. And, if you do not have one close to you, I invite you to contact my church, New Dawn Christian Village. 2328 St. James Place, Los Angeles, CA 90007. You can also contact us on the web at ndcv.org.

It is time for you to start receiving that portion God has always desired to give to you. This is his will for your life; for you to live in fullness of his Word, and Spirit. I am praying for you.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

You've Heard It Before. Believe It Now

Colossians1;16 (KJV)

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

To give the contexual view: Read, and study, verses 15-20


Okay, here is the so often heard, yet always ignored statement that the title eludes to....

IT AIN'T ALL ABOUT YOU!!!!!!!!


That really should be your encouragement today. LOL Really. But, I am thinking that you would sit, looking at your screen, reading the words, and inwardly commenting that, "Bro. Catalyst must not have felt like blogging today. He trying to pass this off as 'spiritual' encouragement."
We ARE some prideful creatures, if we do not often get reminded that PRIDE isn't good for the child of God. So, where does that take us? Right back to the opening statement. IT AIN'T ABOUT YOU!!!!

Paul's epistle to the Colossians was an overall rebuttal to most of the false doctrines that had been going forth in the city of Colosse. What better way to start off a conversation on falsehoods, and miseducation than to state the truth? No, seriously, that is a question to you.

If you, who are reading this, set out to be encouraged (within your spirit), should you not have proper understanding about the fullness of Christ Jesus; the fullness that is God's to give? When stepping into such teachings, as learning about Christ Jesus and him being God, why would you then raise your hand to ask, "When am I going to learn all about me?"
That is one of, if not the number one way we block the reception of God's best for us. To sit and spend time trying to figure out when, where, and how I can make this relationship all about me is sheer foolishness.

I think about my present situation, just as example. There is a scripture, John 15;18-19, which shows me that as long as I choose to represent Christ Jesus I shall have a type of 'hatred' that will be present as long as I am representing him. That is why I do not have so many friends. That is why I cannot go to club with you ALL THE TIME. That is why most people will not seek me out, to sit in conversation with. That is why I am not appealing to most women. That is why...... You got it? Most of those people, who are IN the world but not OF the world, understand exactly what I mean. We understand that it is not about us. We understand so much, that we give thanks on them days when we get rejected by this world. I have a good friend, here in Los Angeles, that is working within the entertainment industry (film and television). This friend could be what is known as 'famous', but she chooses to remain under Christ Jesus: to represent him fully. Do you know her name?

Encouraged?... I pray you are. When you find out that the job you were so desparately seeking didn't pan out. GIVE THANKS! When your boss asks you to switch travel schedules and stay in the home office more. GIVE THANKS! When the man or woman you were interested in doesn't seem interested in you. GIVE THANKS! When it doesn't appear the money will be available to send your child to college. GIVE THANKS! I write all of this; this blog through inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and when I have given what it is that is to be read, I GIVE THANKS! Because all of this belongs to him anyway. It belongs to God. For he receives all the Glory, all Praise, and all the Honor. We do not deserve none of it. That is why whatever God chooses to give through Christ Jesus is a BLESSING. That is why we should GIVE THANKS.

On today, do your best to be mindful of what it is that you should GIVE THANKS for within your life. Remember, if you received anything, it is a BLESSING.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

And Some Are Still Falling For It......

Genesis 3;1-4 (KJV)

Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?
And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:
But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:

1 Peter 5;6-8 (KJV)

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:


This morning encouragement is for those that are continually being bombarded by the enemy and his lil' plots to cause you to fall back into ignorance. Ignorance of God, and all of his power.

See, we all are going to have to endure a portion of what the enemy can dish out, but what is our saving grace is that God knows that there will be no more put on you than you can handle. Which takes me to Eve. She ain't do nothing outside of what she knew to do. Because when confronted by satan (in the form of a serpent), she answered exactly what she knew. Now, where she fell back was at the point when that new question was asked. She didn't have the prepared response for that question, and she didn't seek to find the proper answer from Adam. When faced with a plot of the enemy, we must be prepared to give the proper answer, or escape the situation and seek the proper response. Did you know that, sometimes, escaping the situation IS the proper response? That one was for those that seem to always FIND themselves in places where they later express, silently, "I should have never went there."

Why might you need this encouragement, on this particular day? Well, because this day is no different from any other day. It is a day where you could run into the devil, and the plot may be put into action. What are you going to do? Where are you going to go? Who are you going to talk to? How are you going to conduct yourself? When are you going to call on God? This was in me, to give to you, because there are too many times when we all find ourselves at the entrance to one of satan's plots. Yes, some are so subtle that you do not know you are entering into them until you find yourself looking around, and not recognizing anything familiar. And yes, some are so obvious that you can know to call on the name of Jesus Christ, and then give thanks that you were given knowledge to recognize and flee.

Too many JUST DON'T KNOW!!!!! Either way the plot is laid out. They just do not know. Imagine if Eve didn't have the knowledge of God's command, totally. Yup, I don't want to imagine that either. For that fact, I still cannot understand (to this day) why Adam didn't smack that fruit out her... But, that is another conversation, for another time.

That is why I listed the scriptures from Peter's first epistle. So that you, if you say you do not know how, will have a point at which to begin. Understanding that you will search out more; by continuing to study and fellowship with other believers. What Peter gives is actually simple, in my opinion. I mean, I envision myself walking down the street, with these references in my active mind, defending myself and always having opportunity to remove myself from satan and the entrance to his plots.

Peter lists three actions: Humble yourself. Cast all your cares. Be sober, be vigilant.
Humble yourself. Know that Christ Jesus is with you. Know that if you put yourself under him, and be readh to perform all that is told to you or asked of you, you will be protected.

Cast all your cares. Yes! ALL OF THEM!!!!! Even the one that you didn't God would mind you caring about. Cast that one too. I am saying that Peter tells us to cast those cares to Christ Jesus. He cast his cares to God, and look at what God did for him; which in turn look at what it did for us. C'mon, you let go of that "care".

Be sober, be vigilant. Pretty self explainatory. Of course, it means don't get drunk. Stop with the silliness. LOL Also, it means to have the correct amount of knowledge at all times. Example from my own life: walking, one day, sharing the Gospel and happened upon a young man that had a portion of his face tattooed. Now, it was not my place to judge him (make him feel as though he going to hell for what he had done), but I did let him know how much harder he had made his life because he was not of a 'sober' mind. When you are sober, you can avoid most of satan's plots because most are just that easy to see: with a sober mind. Too, when you're sober, you will be vigilant. Prepared to defend against satan and his plot. But, when you are not of a sober mind (clear, full of correct knowledge) you will not have in place the proper defenses, and allow any kind of satan's plots to enter. Puts me in mind of one of my Sisza's statement about the last man she allowed in her life, "I could tell he was not right for me, but I couldn't stop him from getting closer. I was dealing with so much emotional baggage that I didn't know how to keep him from coming into my life like he did. And, he didn't do NOTHING but, MAKE MY LIFE WORSE."

On today, which is the day that Lord has made. You, my Brother and my Sister, are thought about. You are thought about so much that God through Christ Jesus touched a lowly country boy to get a reassurance to you. That you CAN be protected. You CAN receive relief from whatever situation you are in today. All you have to do is Humble yourself, Cast your cares, and Be sober, be vigilant. I would like to pray with you and for you.


Lord, we come before you on today saying, "Thank You." Thank you that you woke us up with activity of our limbs, and set in our right mind. Thank you that caused us to seek you out on some much needed advice. For coming to you we knew we would receive true counsel. Thank you Lord that you provide us with something so great and loving as your Word. Yes Lord, thank you for your word. Now Lord, we ask that you continue to keep us away from enemy and all of his plots. In the name of Jesus, Lord, do not allow him to get one foot step closer to us. Hedge us up, Lord, away from him Lord. In the name of Jesus. Because we set ourselves to learn some of how he operates, we know we need more of your Wisdom Lord, more of your Power, more of your Protection, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ. Lord, do not pass us by when giving out the knowledge needed to navigate through this world. We are your children, we need Lord. In the name of Jesus. Now Lord, because we are your children, and because we know you love us, we ask all of the prayers and petitions you answer. In the precious, loving, gentle name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.


Somebody needs to know that the Donnie McClurkin song is all up in my spirit. At this very moment. For a saint IS JUST a sinner, who fell down. But, who wouldn't stay there!!!!!!

NO MORE FALLING DOWN!!!!!


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

That Was Then...... This IS Now

John 8;3-11 (KJV)

And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,
They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.
Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?
This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.
So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.
And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.


Got a private facebook message from a woman concerning the statements I wrote within the prior post, "Boaz and Ruth". Within the paragraph discussing 'Hoe-ish Behavior'. The woman, who I hope is reading this, asked the very simple question of, "Do you tell me that every single Grown Man marries a virgin?"
Her question was followed up by her expression of her past, a brief expression, and then how she found Christ, begin to be healed of her past (not only the indescetions with men, but those from childhood as well), and is now happily married. Her husband knows her past and doesn't care one bit about. Nor, did he care upon learning about it before the date of marriage. All I responded back with is, "Hallelujah! I thank God for your testimony. For I can believe that on the day you decided to NOT walk in the hurt, pain, and shame of your past, it was that they that Christ came unto you to begin the healing. I also thank God for keeping you: to be an example for any other woman that may be dealing with such hurt, pain, and shame too. May God continue to bless you, your husband, your family, and all that you set your hand to accomplish."
Which brings us, those who desire to be encouraged on today, together in the presentation.


I once heard a sermon, by a pastor, concerning this particular interaction between Christ Jesus, the Scribes, the Pharisees, and believe it or not, this adulterous woman. His breakdown of it still stays lodged in my memory.

One: The scriptures record that the men, these important men; men of high reputation within the community, brought this woman to Christ Jesus with the statement, "Yeah! We caught the girl in the act!" (v4). Remember, that

Two: There whole mindset was not to actually see the woman stoned, but to catch Christ Jesus within some type of verbage by which they could then accuse him to the leaders and elders within the synagogue (v1,2,6).

Three: Most importantly, these jokers didn't even bother to conspire together, for there was not present the other offending party. You must remember, adultery is a two-man sport.


When I heard that pastor say that I knew I had been present to receive something that would benefit my walk. Because it was at that time, I was dealing with my newness in Christ (I had been recently baptized back then, 2003, and was involved with a woman who was not at all concerned with my new position, walk with Christ Jesus, or God for that matter). *This is important for some of you men and women reading today. Pay close attention*
It is also valuable, coupled together with the woman's writing this morning, for the man or woman who may be reading; with that kind of person in their life today. Why? Because just like the woman, you have been introduced to the Truth, and the forgiveness for your sin.

Understand, Christ knew those men's intentions (their hearts). What those men didn't know and what you are about find out is exactly what that accused woman witnessed. Christ Jesus isn't concerned with my past, when it comes to what man may say about me. Get a good understand: it is your bridge. You may be within an adulterous affair at this very moment. Actually sitting in bed, reading this blog, with the other offending party sleep next to you. Or you may just be the man or woman, sitting in your home, reading, after pondering the decision to stop with your hoe-ish ways. Either way, you are at the place where you can within the power, and forgiveness of God through Christ Jesus.

Going back to the text, verses 6-9, is where we get to witness his power. No, he didn't turn water to wine. He didn't make a snake out of a staff. Didn't remove any illness from any one individual. No, he didn't perform none of that. What he did was held his peace. Oh! Hallelujah!!!! Y'all better see this comin'!!!!! For this what the Holy Spirit is giving to me in this very moment!!!!! This is wonderful. Going to break a chain within someone's life, TODAY!!!!! Oh, Hallelujah!!!!! Thank you Christ Jesus for giving this to me!!!!!!

First allow me to give what that pastor said, on that day I heard his sermon, concerning these four verses (6-9). The pastor expressed, with humor, that as Jesus squatted down and begin to write, it is quite possible that he was writing, "Okay, you bring this woman before me, but wasn't you that was with her just yesterday? And, didn't she perform for you and ya boys last Thursday?"
To which the men went silent as well, and that is when Christ Jesus spoke, out loud, the statement, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her."

Now, what was given to me, at this moment of writing, is the fact that you, reading this today, who may be involved in illicit affairs, or conducting yourself in a less than admirable way sexually, are among a group of individuals who couldn't even formulate the thought to get to a stone and cast it. That is why Christ is silent on it right now. Hallelujah!!! If you choose to study further, you will see what Christ Jesus is showing you, through this blog post: today. For after the all those accusers walked off; a result of Christ's power to hold his peace. Please make the connection on that one!!!!!! Oh Christ, give them the same joyous settling about the connection as you gave me!!!! Like I was saying, as those accusers walked off, it was just Christ and the woman. HALLELUJAH!!!!! When I heard this sermon, back then, I was able to gather my strength and walk away from the woman I was involved with. Yes, I was accused, and I even had to endure some language that would be thought of as harsh. But, after she "walked away", I was left with Christ Jesus. And, just like he spoke to that woman, who by the way he didn't call adulterous (it wasn't necessary for Christ Jesus to remind her of her indescretion), he spoke to me through this scripture: verse 11. Go, and sin no more.

The one that is active is the one that will not receive the marriage proposal, in my view. But, the one that has allowed for the Peace of God, through Christ Jesus, to come present within their life can reach a point of "sin no more". By which they will, yes they will, get to the alter; if it is within their view. The sister's message is a highlight to what was written in the prior blog. For she showed me, and you, that once we allow God's power and forgiveness to work on us, we will overcome any situation, obstacle, or accusation. Whether it be due to another or ourself.

I pray today's encouragement assists in the breaking of those chains which have been holding someone down. In the name of Jesus Christ, I ask that the Brother or Sister be released. Be loosed, in the name of Jesus Christ. No more shall hurt, heartache, mental depression, low self-esteem be your moniker. No! In the name of Jesus, your moniker shall be Victorious, Conquorer, Powerful, Intelligent, Meek, Loving, Kind, Gentle. Your moniker shall be Child of God!!!!!! That's right! And, if anyone asks you how can you be so sure about that that. Answer them with: Cause my Brova said so.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Let's Get It Straight

Hebrews 10;30-31 (KJV)

For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord, And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.


Today's encouragement you may not like, but it has to be spoken. It is time to stop seeking what it is YOU WANT from God and start SEEKING what it is God has for you according to his will for your life. The reason I write this, in this manner, is because that day: the day when the Lord shall judge IS approaching. Yes! That day is on its way. And, the writer of Hebrews is making the perfect visual statement, which should cement your resolve to serve God through Christ Jesus. Going back to verse 26 within the same chapter, the writer explains that "For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"

Why is that so important to know? Because alot of our present day concerns, thoughts, actions, speech, and influences are not designed to promote Christ Jesus, God, the Holy Ghost, or heaven. When was the last time you, yourself, sought to know exactly what God desired of you? How about seeking his will for you; to complete a task that He desired you to perform? We can use our time, here in this world, doing alot of things. We can sit around and find umpteen million things to believe. But, when that day comes: the day when the Lord shall judge. We will have no more excuses.

Yes, it should make you sink. It makes me sink. Its a sobering thought. Of course, the first rocket-launch of a statement from any person, who desparately desires relief from secret knowledge of their own indiscrections, will always be, "So are you claiming to know something I do not know?" or, "Oh! You saying I have to believe what you believe?"
My answer to both of those questions is, "No."

See, this is your encouragement. Understand? I am not you. Yes, I will say I know some things: and some things of Christ Jesus, I am overjoyed to know. But, I do not stand, so full of pride, to say I know more than you. Again, you do not have to believe what I believe. For clarity, I believe there is but ONE God. The God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob. He is ALL-present, ALL-knowing, and ALL-powerful. He is what is commonly referred to as, 'Alpha and Omega'. The beginning, and the end. He wrapped himself in flesh, becoming the Son: Jesus. Who was the likeness of God and man. Upon the resurrection of Christ Jesus, God (in the form of the Holy Spirit) made himself available unto all who would believe.

The writer of Hebrews through the full scope of the scriptures is alerting us to the fact that there will be a judgement, and concerning your soul, you may not desire to be on the side of 'get it right then'. Now before I close, I would be all kinds of wrong if I didn't say this:

The statement of any man, when he speaks to you of the word God, more often times are probably not lies but more apt to be prideful. Because of that, I ask that you study your Bible and seek out a pastor or minister to assist you in your study. Remember, even I am not above correct teaching. And, if you see, I did say I do not claim to know anymore than any other man. All I claim to know is Jesus Christ and him crucified.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

If it is going to be like this, then............

Matthew 19;3-11 (KJV)

The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder.
They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?
He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.
But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.

Matthew 5;31-32 (KJV)

It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:
But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

Romans 7;1-3 (KJV)

Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth?
For the woman which hath a husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband.
So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.

1 John 1;5-10 (KJV)

This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.


***ATTEMPTS WERE MADE TO INCLUDE MY EX-WIFE, YET NO RESPONSE GIVEN. I PROCEED UNDER GUIDANCE AND GRACE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT***


"I just need to be by myself to figure out if I am to be married."
"The last thing a married woman needs to do is play single, to figure out if she needs to be married. Now, if you need some space and time I can find something to do on the weekends, and after work to give you alone time. I will sleep on the couch at night. But, you should not leave this house."
"No, I have to leave. I don't want to be married anymore."

Within a two week time span, we had separated the bank account, cell phone plans. I took her off the insurance, and she paid the rent for April. Moved out, her and my step-son. Came back in June to retrieve a few more items that she desired, and then spoke to me more than in the last two months.
"I knew you didn't love me. ------ (name not important) told me how you had been try ing to screw her ever since she moved here."
I was so stunned at the accusation/statement that I couldn't do anything but giggle, "And you believe that?"
The answer was her walking away from our apartment on that day, and ultimately our marriage. The divorce/annulment was finalized July 2010. The marriage of Us Two lived from July 2006-July 2010.


Christ's words to the Pharisees was that no MAN should be able to rip apart what God had brought together. Now, before we get into the whole 'retreat back to my own corner' positions, let's just state for the obvious. Yes, back in Biblical days all men had all power, so women didn't have a say in any of the writings of the laws, or the daily decision making process. But, in today's society women are seen, if not already widely acknowledged, as equals to men. Fair statement?
So then, it can be said that a WOMAN is to not try and rip up what God has put together as well.

Why was it so necessary for Moses to give this witing of divorcement to the people? Why does the writing continue to be acknowledged? And, why do we, those who understand that God doesn't desire divorce (nor does HE like it), continue to allow it to be an option within the framework of our lives? These questions are serious. They are meant to spark the inward assessment of why we, yes I am included, had to allow for divorce/separation to be an option. Propelling us to have to seek forgiveness of God through Christ Jesus for the weakness we showed.

Today's encouragement is not for the faint of heart. I still remember, though healed of it, how I felt helpless at her expression of hurt, anger, and shame. How I knew my actions (which came from pride) were the assistant to the enemy and his plan to destroy. For when this person (who will not be named) did arrive in Los Angeles, my whole intention was to "show" the aspect of family in the way I was raised. But, not everybody is raised in the Stokes family... Anyway, my attempt to override my then fiancee's request is what gave birth to the lie. Her request was simple, and as I learned afterwards from my mother, "It ain't for you to understand. It is just for you to perform. Comphehension is not a requirement for compliance."
All my future wife asked of me was, "Do not be around her when I'm not around her."
Seriously, all I heard her say was, "Here is the chance, for you, to show me that I can trust you."
Of course, the enemy (the devil) had a field day with this one prideful thought of this man. And then when I finally realized that I needed to stop trying to do it all my way, that was more than likely when she made the mental exit. Do you know that most women leave a relationship mentally before they actually physically step away? Oh, these are some cold pieces of work, when the devil gets to dance with them...

After my ex-wife left our home, I made all the necessary attempts to let her know that I wanted our marriage, yet I DID let her know that I would not be the spinless pool of indifference that would allow her walk all over me with coming back and forth, running in and out whenever she wanted. I asked that she give me the key to the apt and garage door clicker. "I do not want you to leave this home, but if you say you are going to go. Then, you ARE going to go."
Was that wrong? Was that harsh? Probably, but that is what felt I had to do to protect my feelings and shame. But, I didn't cut off communications. I let her know I was present, ready to talk about it, maybe even work it out. Go to marriage counseling. Even told her, whenever we did sit together, that she was welcomed to come back and that I would never speak of the split. I also let her know that I wouldn't file for divorce. Again, I expressed that I would not seek to end the marriage. Yup, she filed the paperwork, had me served, and yes, I complied. Didn't hold up proceedings. Didn't contest anything. Didn't try. Again, I did not try.


Do you all see where this marriage, as brief as it was and as brief as this account was, fell off track? Neither one of us, for whatever reasons we had, took our hands off of it. We, yes my ex-wife and I, did exactly what Christ Jesus said we were not to do. We tore what God brought together asunder. We ripped it all apart. She had her hands on it, and I never took my hands off. This is the reason why Moses gave the people the writing in the first place. None of them cared or made a choice to release control. And remember, this was just the men back then. Kinda makes you string together a few thoughts based on some modern day data. Today's divorce rate, in America, is right around the 50% line. That means about one in every two marriages are ending in divorce. Honestly, do you think that all those that do go to divorce are because the men seek it? C'mon women, you wanted to be seen as equals. Come and own half of this fact too.

What I am getting at is that in today's time, just as back then, when given the control, we humans are only going to deal with it until we figure we can't deal any longer. Now, what God says is that there is no way I will ever stop figuring out how to continue. That is why it is said, "what God has joined together, let no man put asunder". That is why we have Christ Jesus. Christ told his disciples that he knew man would have an issue with that. Did not my marriage have issues? Yes it did. Could we have gotten past them? Sure we COULD HAVE, if we would have rested in Christ's power of redemption, but we made the choice to put asunder. This is why what is said in 1 John is so important. We have to ask for forgiveness, and believe that we are forgiven. For more importantly than the hiccup of not being able to substain this earthly marriage, God desires that we not break the bonds of our spiritual marriage to Christ. Yes, just as Paul wrote in Ephesians, I am speaking of Christ and the church. Our necessary placement within the body of Christ outweighs the small misstep of not being able to stay together. That is if we believe we have been forgiven. If we do not believe we are forgiven, then we stay within the sin; because of the mindset that accompanies the offense.

Brothers and Sisters, once again, this week's presentations of encouragement were all to get us back within the mind set of seeking, depending, and resting on Christ Jesus. Today's is no different. Do I know if my ex-wife shares this present place with me: to know that Christ Jesus can heal, and instruct us to move forward to accomplish God's will for our lives? Prayerfully I hope she does. But, what I have to do, ultimately, is not worry about it and pray for her. Because all that matters, above all of this, is that we not stop serving Christ, rejoice in his Grace and Mercy, and celebrate, togethe in heaven, to our Lord's Glory and Righteousness.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

My Sistah,..... Do You Know of Boaz and Ruth?

Ruth 1;11-16 (KJV)

And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands?
Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have a husband also tonight, and should also bear sons;
Would ye tarry for them til they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the Lord is gone out against me.
And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth cleaved unto her.
And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law.
And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:

Good Morning everyone. Again, I thank you for continuing on the "Relationship Week" portion of the Fellowship. Today's encouragement is for my Sistahs. I am sure the Brothers can benefit as well. The title includes the question, and I asked because there is an important equivilant between Ruth and most young women of today. This is the place I believe we, together, must examine and maybe some change may come up out of it. Okay? Alright... Let's get to it.

Sistahs, are you at the point now where you must decide? Decide between continuing forward in the pursuit of increased knowledge concerning your career, or standing still with the skills you have? Maybe you are having to decide between taking a leave of absence to get your baby through the first weeks of kindergarden, or buckling down at your job in order to secure this promotion you know to be your's? Could it be that you are tettering on that questionable time in life where it's either have a baby now, or resign to be the best aunt to the nieces and nephews you already have? One last question. Could it be that you are looking at all your girlfriends, in their white dresses, going down the aisle, and asking when your time will come? Or, have you said that being the bride's maid or invited guest is okay because you don't need a man at this time? Do you go home and cry in your pillow, in the dark, listening to Sade, wrapped in a shawl, sippin' wine?... That last one was a joke. C'mon!!!! It ain't that bad, is it?

All those questions were asked because of the statement that a close, personal friend of mine made when I sought her out for a few pointers on today's encouragement. She stated that, "No. I do not desire to be 'The Girlfriend' for the rest of my life."
So, if that is the case, and if this is your statement of position today sistah, what are you doing to change it? Like Ruth, you have to see that going back cannot be the option. Okay, let's examine a little bit of your mode of operation.

***I am not a woman. I know this. So, if you see that I have made a statement you do not agree with, COMMENT!!!! I am not above correction***


Intelligence level: Stupid is, as stupid does. Do you understand that sayin'? No? Then, unfortunately boo-boo, it's you. Let me help any woman that is still under the impression that a 'Grown Man' wants a stupid woman. WE DON'T!!! Ain't nothing beautiful about stupid. In this day and age that we live in, a woman with intelligence is pretty much essential to the life of a man. Simple thing to understand, right? Then answer me this: Why are you dealing with men that cause you to have to dumb yourselves down? Answer that one.

There is nothing more pathetic than a woman, of obivious intelligence, having to "play" stupid in order to maintain a relationship that probably wasn't meant for her anyway. You know he ain't your husband. You saw that when he came to you asking you how to fill out the bank deposit form. You the one that got him the bank account in the first place. Understand sistah? Okay, moving forward.

Style of Dress: First thing said, "All women do not step out the house, dressed the way they are, seeking a man's approval." My mother taught me that, and added that most of the time you ladies are actually dressing for other women. Something about knowing other women are looking at the 'fashion' of the outfit. Anyway, the sistah I am directing this portion to is the one that still believes (and yes, I think she believes this) that being mistaken for a hookah [hook-kah'] is a compliment. Seriously!!!! And please don't be over 30 with that mindset. Honestly, in a way, I do.not blame this sistah as much as I blame the other sistahs that let her keep going. Again, back to the scriptures. If you study this part of the Bible, you will see that Ruth received the exact type of teachings needed from Naomi. Why won't y'all teach your sistah? Real question, answer it for me.

And, since we on this side of your interactions with each other, I have another statement that I make seeking comment on. Why do you women continue in the brutal cycle of keeping up this constant snippyness with one another? I have told my female friend that I do not believe women, in general, all hate on each other. What I do believe is that the story of this 'cattiness' has been handed down for so long, from Mother to Daughter, that it is the thing to be on the look out for whenever y'all get around each other. Get what I mean? Do you?...

Ho-ish Behavior: Very simple section, for we all know you. You are easy to target, spot, knock off, or get at. Whichever suits the reader. What I have to say is this, "Hear me good if you are exhibiting hoe like behavior. YOU WILL NOT BE A WIFE.... EVER!!!! IT IS THE SERIOUS MINDSET OF US GROWN MEN THAT A....HOE.....IS NOT.....A....HOUSEWIFE!!!!!" Hate it if you want to, it is what is. Besides, I know y'all know this. Please stop layin' with every dude who tells you that you are cute, or gorgeous, or hot, or sexy, or bangin', or you know what he said last night at the club. Oh Yeah!!! Stay out the club all the damn time!!!! We men have an internal rule about the club. "I am not going to be the 40-50 year old dude in the club, with the deacon suit and deacon hat on, strollin', with the small glass of brown liquor in hand, tryin' hard not to go home alone." NOPE, AIN'T GONNA BE ME!!!! Same for you ladies. Please don't allow your whoredome to continue so that you become the oh so obvious fake wig, dress too tight, way too tight mama, seriously too much make up, you look real desparate tonight, sippin' your strawberry daquari, smilin' at every one that passes by, old chick. That is so not the business, as the kids say. Don't become the thirsty lady.

Another side of this is the hoe bestfriend. Let's teach this woman, ladies, to stop with her hoish self. She is going to be the girlfriend you have who will constantly have you wondering. Now, I can say I have seen one, but never experienced one. My close female friend informed me that these hookahs are, in a way, necessary to the REAL WOMAN in that this particular friend will alert you to all the men that you are to not speak to or give interest to. HAHAHAHAHA.... She stated, "The hoe is good for something." LOL You silly for that one.

Wife: Finally, we get to the place you probably are anyway. Here it is. You have waded through all the muck and mire to get to this place, and found that there is a difficulty here as well. Okay, what is the difficulty? Could it be that your eyesight is still on the dude that you wanted? That dude that is still in the club? Perhaps you think there can be a 'good man' that will want to wife a hoe? Ummmmmm...... NO. Still, you maintain the appropiate dress code that is sure to attract every Tom, Harry, and Dick. Yes, I do think you think of those names, in that order. What is the hiccup? Well, like I said in the beginning, I am not a woman. So I do not claim to hold the answers. But, I did do the thing most men won't do. I asked a bunch of women I trust. So here are a few of their answers.

A woman MUST prepare to be a wife. There are basic things she has to be able to do, even before her husband is brought to her.

A wife knows who she is. She WILL NOT go chasing after her husband. She has duties she has to accomplish.

Be friendly, yet not too friendly (if you know what I mean). A snared up face is unattractive. Yes, we women have hard days, but you never know where your husband will be.

Stop complaining all the time. And, do not accept nothing but the best, from yourself and the man you are with. If he is your husband, he will see your words as encouragement.

Let it happen. God is in control.

And my favorite,.... A wife is just that. A wife! She is not just a cook, or a bedroom playmate, or the accountant, or assistant principal to the kids. She is everything, EVERY THANG, to her husband. HER HUSBAND!!! Not every man that she comes across. She sees exactly who she is in conjunction to the man that is in front of her. If he cannot deal with her heights, then he ain't her husband. If she feels beneath him, that ain't her husband. The wife can see equality in the heart, mind, soul, and spirit of her husband.


Read the experience of Ruth, and my Siszas understand that this is your time to make the decision to move forward into that place you were always meant to be. Do not allow the enemy to stifle you, impede your progress, or cover your eyes with doubt. We are discussing relationships, but you know as well as I do that this is about your life, and life eternal. If securing the title 'Wife' is there, it IS there yet do not sell yourselves short to think that you can only have a low level of it. That is a lie from the pit of hell and I rebuke it in the name of Jesus Christ. You, my Sisza, are meant for God's best. So, do what is necessary to be God's best and you will receive nothing less than God's best.


I want to thank the women that gave me good advice, even if they didn't know I was writing it down: Barbara Hammond (my Mama), Tiffany Thomas (TT in da house), Catina Smith (Tinalicious), Georgette Holmes (Da Lil' Sisza), Amanda Ahmed (Silky Ma-Ray), Juliana Peterson (JuJu Redbone), and without a doubt LaKeisha Clark (East of the 110). I thank all you ladies for giving me advice, glimpses, thoughts, and encouragement to see that when a woman embarks on the journey to be a Wife she will accomplish all that God says a Wife should accomplish.

Special acknowledgement to my Pastor's wife, First Lady P. Bunny Wison. She, through inspiration and submission to God, created SWAT/SSLK. I suggest that if you are a woman and desire to have a deeper walk with Christ Jesus, and secure the necessary tools to obtain the title 'Wife', you may want to look into connecting with her and the staff of New Dawn Christian Village. Web site is www.ndcv.org


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Sometimes A Smile Is Just That..... A Smile

Proverbs 4;1-4 (KJV)

Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.
For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.
He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.


Today's encouragement will be brief. The last two presentations were to get you to the understanding of who you are (in this matter of relationship), and who you seem to prefer. Now, we are going to take a look at how you have operated (dated or completely jumped into relationship). The reason I say this will be brief is due to the fact that dating is a practice not engaged in within Biblical days. Back then marriages were arranged by families, and the men and women, oftims, didn't get the opportunity to learn one another.

**Puts another spin on that 'A man that findeth a wife' Proverb. Huh?**

I lead in with my Brothers, and myself, concerning the process by which we "choose" to date. Yes. It is a choice. I look at how I am NOT active in the process. The process of dating. That is a choice. Fellas, if we meet a young lady and find her to be interesting, do we not "choose" to continue to find out about her. If we really get truthful about it, we can "choose" to confine her to the 'Only a Lay' section of our process. Oops!! Did I say something I wasn't suppose to? I mean we are here, again, to get som kind of handle on this thing we term "Relationship", right? Let's not forget about that small little tactic we all(men and women) employ called, 'game'. I had to throw that in right there, while speaking to my Brothers because Tupac DID say it right. Since we all came frome a woman/got our name from a woman/and our game from a woman.... Bruh, did you know that half the time, if not more, the young lady already knew you put her in that section? Did you also know that she let you think you were putting her in that section? She had already placed you in that section first. This why the word of God is so important. Go with me back to Proverbs.

Proverbs 6;23-26 (KJV)

For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:
To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.
Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.
For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.


Wow! Hard description, but necessary for us men to see. This type of woman, in today's time, we run into more often then we think. This is the woman that you think you 'gamin', but you were 'gamed up' before you open your mouth. She is simple to spot. Easy to pick out of the club crowd. I am taking it here because Brothers we desperately have to remove this type of eyesight from our view. If we continue to seek to "choose" to date this type of young woman, who will ONLY be placed in the 'Only a Lay' section of our brains, then this is the type of woman young ladies will ONLY subscribe to become. Its the exact cruel cycle our younger Brothers are perpetuating right now. With the whole, "I wanna be seen as a thuggish, uneducated, weed smoking, ignorant, whatever". So that is the representation we, and the little Sisters, see everyday. Now the little Sister, because she desires a boy friend, is trying her best to pick THE BEST ONE from this barrel full of rotten apples. Does it make sense?

It is time to "choose" to date with some Wisdom and Knowledge attached to ourselves. Of course, I do not have all those answers, but you can find them in the Bible. I can offer what is, and has been, working for me. Not assuming you are me, but maybe this can be remolded to fit you.

1. No latenight conversations, phone calls, text messaging, or emailing unless you have established that there is some sort of seriousness to your relationship. You must take the lead on this point.

2. If dating, do not allow the woman to know where you live or come to your place for at least 90 consecutive days. Trust fellas, this as much for your protection as it is to give the woman a sense of security with you

3. Absolutely, in no way, are you to have sex or put yourself in the compromising situation where sex will happen. Now, I know we all grown here and there are some who will giggle but, once again, trust what I am saying.


My Brothers, hopefully, prayerfully, this will assist and encourage you as you seek to move in a new manner within the dating world, and that new relationship. Also, I invite those of you (men and women) who read today's encouragement to add to this discussion. Remember it is fellowship, and without interaction, you will be the only fellow in the ship.

Sisters, we will meet tomorrow and discuss some of what you may be dealing with within this area as well.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Tell The Truth (What Are You Looking For???)

Proverbs 18;22 (KJV)

Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord.
(That one is for my Brothers)

Proverbs 20;6 (KJV)

Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?
(That one is for my Sisters)


Good Morning. Glad to see you all decided to take this next step in the "Relationship Week" part of this Fellowship. So, today I intend to encourage the portion of us who find ourselves asking that all encompassing question that seems to never get answered, 'Why can't I find that "good" one?"
Honestly it can be answered with a question, but the question I would ask would cause y'all to run like a theater full of movie goers who just heard someone scream Jesus. On to the presentation.

***IF SENSITIVE OR YOU KNOW YOUR FEELINGS GET HURT EASILY, DO NOT CONTINUE. THIS IS FOR THE ONES WHO CAN HANDLE HEARING ABOUT THEIR OWN SHORTCOMINGS***

First thing first. We all know that God created marriage, for he performed the first marriage. Genesis 2;20-24 shows us that God understood that a man was in need of companionship, and formed the exact being necessary for Adam. Then sealed it with the statement of, "Therefore shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."
We now understand that marriage should and IS SUPPOSE to be our goal when looking for that "good" man or woman. Okay, let's proceed. If I am moving to fast, catch up.....

Fellas!!! Be honest: What do you want? And, do not whip out that standard list of adjectives you learned by copying off of all your married friends and folks in the congregation. Nope! That don't fly. You know what I am asking. Remember, in my past blog (Why Her), I stated that if we were not walking with Christ, and even some of who are right next to him, we tend to have this mental photo of who we looking for? That is what I mean. Do you have your heart set on that chick? Is "Tangerine" your vision of good? C'mon now, we say we having issues with FINDING the good one!!! Maybe its because we have an issue with where we looking? You ever thought about that?

The Proverb says that the 'Whoso findeth a WIFE findeth a GOOD THING'. Not, 'Whoso searcheth through STRIPPERS findeth a BOMB HEAD NURSE'. Yup! I said it!! It had to be said!!!! We all know this to be the world's truth. Most of us men are having difficulty FINDING because we take it upon ourselves to SEARCH. Searching ain't never yeilded one GOOD THANG. You get what I mean...

Sistahs!!! Y'all just like us. Can see the hard working man. Will acknowledge he he has a sensible head on his shoulders. Will even comment on his calmness, "I haven't ever really heard him raise his voice or act ignorant with any woman. He even has a good relationship with his mother."
All his attributes ARE seen by you, but for some odd reason...... that one over there. That Tayquan..... ooooooo!!!!! He just can get it! It is something about him. The way he walk and that SWAGG. Yeah, he act a lil' ignorant every now and then, but that's because he ain't met you yet. Yeah, he don't never seem to be going anywhere: always on that same corner, but you could show him some new things. Sure, he has two or three different kids, by two or three different women, but hey "everyone ain't perfect" is your thought. And, you were witness to him and his mother slap-boxing each other, cussing at one another last Sunday, as you left church, but they did seem to be playing.... at least you thought that as you rolled by. I think creative liscensing of a thought has made its point.

Again the Proverb reads, "But a faithful man who can find?"
Why is it difficult for you, Sistah, to find this faithful man? Why is it that you, who desires so much to have a long standing, committed, honest, marriage cannot seem to find that man? Maybe you suffer from the same condition the Brothers suffer from: SEARCHABLE-ITIS. When YOU are the sole focal point of your search, then..... well, you understand. What God is saying through this Proverb is that you cannot depend, trust, or rely on you. C'mon Sistah, tell the truth. You fickle. Your mind, as great as it is, can allow for some seriously insane activity to be conjured up. For that fact alone, you should understand the Proverb is your 'tale of caution'.


Which brings me to the bridge of the today's encouragement:
Proverbs 3;5-7 (KJV)

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, abd depart from evil.


There really doesn't need to be too much put with this Proverb. We see exactly how, on this subject of relationship; trying to find the "good" one, we should allow for Christ Jesus to have control of this part of our lives too. Look, I know the difficulty in even pondering the aspect of releasing control to Christ. I mean, I know what I like! "What if Christ doesn't bring me what I like?". That is the thought. We being honest about this right? Let me know if this is too much... I will pause for you to gather your things.

We have to come up to that place God has been raising us to. No more playing below the radar. Brothers, its time to just confess the fact that what we have allowed into ourselves, through those certain, past, 'tricks', is not beneficial to the process by which Christ is operating to get you to your "GOOD THING". And Sistahs, please discontinue that eyesight that says, "I can fix all of what is wrong with him. Once he gets with me, he will have to change and then he will want to marry me." All the while you are allowing your spirit to be deminished more and more, allowing this sweaty-neck dude to jump and down on top of you, possibly ushering you into the line up of his own personal starting five. Release yourself from that degredation. Walk over to where Christ is at and ask him how you are to think, how you are to 'look'. Begin to allow Christ Jesus to set the standard by which you go and find that "GOOD MAN".

As I close today's encouragement, I ask that both of you (Brother and Sister), begin to study some scriptures that will lead you in preparation, if not out right walk you smack dab into that "good" one. They should lead you to see the attributes you should be able to see within the man or woman you are looking for. These have been present, for us, and sometimes I say to myself, "I keep forgetting to read and see if she lines up." Not that there has been alot of 'shes' since 09. LOL I am told I give women the blues.... HAHAHAHAHA Whatever that means. Anyway, reading and studying these respective scriptures should be of great assistance to you. Enjoy the rest of your day, and see all y'all tomorrow.

For my Brothers: Read and Study Proverbs 31;10-31

For my Sistahs: Read and Study Ephesians 5;25-33


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Lyrical Content

Good Morning my Brothers and Sisters,

I am going to be exploring, this week, some of the reasons why we, in the body of Christ, may be facing difficulty in relationships. Beginning them, substaining them, reaching marriage, and ultimately separation or divorce. So, today I repost a presenstation that I offered sometime ago that may be encouraging to you on this day.

*** RESPONSES ARE APPRECIATED. LET US USE ALL THESE PRESENTATIONS AS THE SPARK TO GET TO DIALOUGE***

1 John 4;19-21 (KJV) We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

I sat and listened to the lyrics of the song 'Can I get a' from the soundtrack of Rush Hour 2. It occured to me that Jay-Z was asking the set of questions to a particular woman, and those poetic flows are actually the questions that we men ask of women all the time. What triggered the pondering of how to expose the Biblical viewpoint came as I replayed the last line before the chorus. 'If you couldn't see yourself with a Brova (edited for television) when his dough is low.... babygirl if this is so'

She can't see!! None of us can see that!! I mean, it takes another level of Love--and I would dare to say, "Especially for the woman"--to "see" that. Okay, before my Siszas all write in and tell me about the broke brother they took care of,allow me to ask you this question: Do you thank God for where that brother may be, within his life today? I ask that for the same reasons that my Brothers will ask about the woman who only 'seemed' satisfied with being his lady/woman/ girlfriend (ain't it a shame we didn't think that woman deserved to be our Wife?) at those times when we were doin' well, livin' large, had FAT POCKETS. These ponderings, like that song, need to be answered by investigating the source of what made the question come forward in the first place. "I can't see if you will Love ME?"

John's first epistle was written, as one Theologian states, for those Christians who faced new challenges to their faith. What is to be one of our most significant challenges? Love; here on earth; among each other, and the desire to connect; through perfect Love to reach out and grasp hands with our equal. I like, personally, to say that I know Christ will have blessed me; with my wife once I look upon her, and confess, like Adam, "This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh" (Genesis 2;23 KJV) all of this tracks back to our relationship with our first love. John writes in verse 19, "We love him, because he first loved us." Straight to the point!! No, 'could I hit it in the morning, without givin' you half of my dough/even worse, if I was broke would you want me?' What is being said here, in the scriptures, is "You are broke!!! And, YES I want you."

Real quick, let's run over to the Old Testament; to Hosea. It's after Proverbs, and before the New Testament. If you read what God (understand this is God speaking) said about the people of Isreal; Hosea 1;2 "The beginning of the word of the Lord by Hosea. And the Lord said to Hosea, Go, take unto thee a wife of whoredoms and children of whoredoms: for the land hath committed great whoredom, departing from the Lord." You see the Lord knew exactly the kind of people he was dealing with. *HINT, HINT...... I said, "HINT, HINT!!* Now, go over to Hosea 2;1-7 "Say ye unto your brethern, Ammi; and to your sisters, Ruhamah. Plead with your mother, plead: for she is not my wife, neither am I her husband: let her therefore put away her whoredoms out of her sight, and her adulteries from between her breasts; Lest I strip her naked, and set her as in the day that she was born, and make her as a wilderness, and set her like a dry land, and slay her with thirst. And I will not have mercy upon her children; for they be the children of whoredoms. For their mother hath played the harlot: she that conceived them hath done shamefully: for she said, I will go after my lovers, that give me my bread and my water, my wool and my flax, mine oil and my drink. Therefore, behold, I will hedge up thy way with thorns, and make a wall, that she shall not find her paths. And she shall follow after her lovers, but she shall not overtake them; and she shall seek them, but shall not find them: then shall she say, I will go and return to my first husband; for then was it better with me than now." You see again God doing something that none of us, seemingly, can do. Continue to Love someone when they have clearly expressed, through word and deed, that they choose to not choose you. Oh, let me state for the record that I am one who finds it very difficult to understand how that kind of Love comes present. I am THANKFUL Christ shows it to me, and says I can show it to others, but I would be lying to all y'all if I said, "That's simple.... C'mon, I can do that. God loves me like that and I am able to love others like that too." Yeap, you have to be giggling at that one as well.

Back to Hosea. Before you read anymore of what I write, please read (and meditate on) how much God; through Jesus Christ, Loves you. Read Hosea 3;1-5 "Then said the Lord unto me, Go yet, love a woman beloved of her friend, yet an adulteress according to the love of the Lord toward the children of Isreal, who look to other gods, and love flagons of wine. So I bought her to me for fifteen pieces of silver, and for a homer of barley, and a half homer of barley: And I said unto her, Thou shalt abide for me many days; thou shalt not play the harlot, and thou shalt not be for another man: so will I also be for thee. For the children of Isreal shall abide many days without a king, and without a prince, and without a sacrifice, and without an image, and without an ephod, and without teraphim: Afterward shall the children of Isreal return, and seek the Lord their God, and David their king; and shall fear the Lord and his goodness in the latter days."

Now for my Biblical scholars, I know I am getting a SHOUT and a HALLELUJAH!!!!!!! For those that have a daily study, you might be in quiet reflection of how good God has been in your life and you are thanking Him for his Love for you, and the value that he has gave to you; for obtaining eternal life and relationship with him. For those that may be looking upon this writing, grasping at the cognative thought, "What does it all say for me?" I lead in with the words of the Apostle Paul; in his letter to the church at Corinth.
1 Corinthians 6;20 "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's" Why must that be understood? Because you will be able to see that God's Love is constant. He Loves you with the same Love that He had for the children of Isreal. His desire to have them be his people is the same desire that He possesses for you; right now. This is why, at the beginning, I stated our quest for the understanding to know if it is truly us that the person 'wants' has to be answered by going to the FIRST LOVE we ever encountered. If anymore needs to be heaped on this presentation, I give to you the examination of the scriptures as written by Spiros Zodhiates, Th.D. concerning the actions of Hosea, himself (Hosea 3;1-5), "Hosea acts out God's buying back His strayed people. It is not a coincidence that the value of the items that Hosea paid to regain his own wife added up to thirty shekels."

Now read Matthew 26;15 "And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver." and John 3;16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." in succession, together.


Can I get a.... What! What!


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Got a Testimony

Psalm 33;18-22 (KJV)

Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;
To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.
Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he is our help and our sheild.
For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.
Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.


Before I jumped on the blog site, I had to call up my cellular service company, T-mobile, and pay this month's charges. Now as I begin this testimony, I have to tell you (sort of in that out of sequence style) about the decision I had been prompted to make, by Christ Jesus, concerning my Birthday; which is on Sunday. Hallelujah!!!! I am still amazed at how God moves on behalf of his children!!!!!

Okay, so I call the automated line, ready to punch in the standard prompts to reach the area of questions that would allow me to pay this month's charges. When I hear the amount, I quickly press the pound key: in rapid succession (that sends you straight to a live, human being). $658.72.... Oh! I am heated!!! Hotta than HOT! "How in the ---- y'all gonna send my bill into the outer stratosphere like that!!", is what I thought to myself. Then, I prayed on the matter.

"Lord, please whatever this person says on this line, PLEASE LORD, just allow for the amount of $200.00 to be sufficient and to allow that amount to keep my cell service going for the next month. I need this service Lord. You know that my desire to continue the blog, on a daily basis, has to include this cell service being active on a daily basis. Please, Lord, move over the hearts, minds, and computers of this cell company Lord. Work on my behalf, Lord! Allow for $200.00 to be sufficient. I plead this, to you Lord, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen."

Yes, I pleaded with Christ because a few months ago I allowed for a debt to go unpaid and at present time, through prayer and mercy of the Lord, the debt been negotiated, agreed upon, and I can work out the payments. Along with trading some plumbing work, God showed me that I could be blessed out of that lack as well. Which is why I had to release the plan for my Birthday. Nothing extravegant, just a nice Italian restaurant I desired to take myself to, and enjoy a part of the day while reflecting on the goodness of the Lord. Anyway, I said to myself, "If the Lord can make a way for me to be relieved of this debt (over $1000.00), in a fairly quick amount of time. Then I surely can release this small, minute 'want' of brunch at Icugini."

Now, back to this morning's conversation with the T-mobile representative. Nick. By the way, if you have to deal with T-mobile any in the next week, please do your best to HYPE this dude's name. As much as you can. He deserves all th accolades anybody can give to one man... Just say, Nick who assisted Mr. Stokes. He called me Mr. Stokes and had Yer Brova feelin' all impo-tant and stuff. HAHAHAHAHAHA, I am silly. Anyway, Nick proceeds to explain to me about how my charges, which had never been above $250.00, all of a sudden, within one 30 day billing cycle, had exceeded $600.00. It was due in part to the current cell phone plan I had, and that I cannot control the amount of incoming texts I receive. As the kids say, "Sidenote: this is why I was hesitant to release the information of a second cell number. Some people just will not honor what you say, no matter how often you say."

Back to Nick and I, this dude then proceeds to inform me of all of the ways he can string service plans together to save me money on my cellular coverage (new tech lingo I learned this morning). Then turns around and says, without me having to ask and truth be told I would not have considered, that he will automatically dissolve the current billing cycle's charges; which already sit at $276.00 and some change, plus seek his supervisor's approval on reversing all charges incurred from the incoming texts. Another $45.00. Oh wait, it gets a whole lot better. When I tell you God is good!!!! Y ou better know he is good!!!!! So then, after that he tells about the type of plan I can have that will protect me from the overages in the calls made to or from my cellular phone, as well as assigning an unlimited text package (which he stated all T-mobile employees are instructed to suggest 'heavily' to customers anyway. Text messages are 45cents). At this exact moment, I hear Nick begin to say, "So Mr. Stokes...". And I cut him off, "Nick, you have given great customer service, and I believe that you have helped me as best as you can. Allow me to say this. I need for you to tell me how we can work out me paying $200.00 of the already owed amount, and my service not be disconnected? Not that it means anything to you, but one of the main reasons I need this service to continue, Nick, is because I work for Christ Jesus, and a part of that is a daily blog which allows for anyone to view a Bible scripture and a presentation based on that scripture. At which time, they are encouraged to respond by comment. Thereby, building a dialogue about God, Jesus and the word of God. So, Nick, it is really important that my service doesn't get disconnected, and that you understand all I have to give is $200.00. What can you do?"

Nick just said, "Mr. Stokes, I was not finished listing all the credits that I had sent over to my supervisor for approval. But I can tell you this, that your total amount that was owed , $658.76, has now been reduced to $88.00. Does that work for you sir?"

At this point, you all know I am standing in awe of God and all of his goodness!!!!!! Because what I didn't say to you yet, is that in lastnight's Bible Study, one of our group member's mother attended and upon me teling about how the Lord blessed me to see my way up out of the debt, and releasing the want for my Birthday brunch at Icugini. She merely stated, "And you never know. The Lord may just send someone to you with the amount needed to have your brunch.".......

Lord Jesus, thank you so much for sending Nick, and T-mobile. Because of your hand Lord, and I know it was all your doing, I am now, not only able to pay off my debt but, at the same time, be able to go to Icugini for my Birthday!!!!!! MY GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD!!!! Hallelujah! Thank you Lord! Please, everyone who reads today's post. Understand that this, too, is encouraging. Not because it is me, or that this happened. No! It is because you have some additional EVIDENCE by which you can hope: a hope that is unseen. You were not present, but if you can extend FAITH that the Lord did move, then you have FAITH that Christ Jesus will move on your behalf as well.

For the person reading, that may not know Christ Jesus. Now, you have the testimony of an individual, who just like you, has the EVERYDAY opportunity to connect to God through Jesus Christ. All you have to do is get down on bended knee, there with yourself, and confess it with your mouth, and believe it in your heart that Jesus is the Son of God and that God DID raise him up from death. By way securing the salvation needed for you to now move towards an eternal life and reward in heaven (Romans 10;9-11). Hallelujah!!!!!! Go out, find a good Bible believing church within your area. If you do not know of one, I invite you to contact my church: New Dawn Christian Village. 2328 St. James Pl. Los Angeles, CA 90007. Church office number is (213)670-0082. Or, you can connect on the web at www.ndcv.org

I ask that Christ uses this one testimony to spark the cognitive thought within one of his children, to get them to come to Christ. To know the Love, Comfort, Peace, and Joy that is had from relationship with God through his precious son Jesus Christ. Thank you all for listening. May God bless you and may God keep you.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst