Wednesday, August 31, 2011

The Word Alone......

Psalm 73 (KJV)

Truly God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean heart.
But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped.
For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm.
They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men.
Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment.
Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish.
They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily.
They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them.
And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High?
Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.
Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency.
For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning.
If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend against the generation of thy children.
When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me;
Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end.
Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction.
How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors.
As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.
Thus my heart was greived, and I was pricked in my reins.
So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was a beast before thee.
Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand.
Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.
Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.
My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.
For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.
But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Let's Review

Good Morning Brothers and Sisters,

I had a personal request to repost, on facebook, a former blog [Why Her?]. So, I am asking that when you stop by my blog, today, please repost (on facebook, myspace, twitter, or tumbler) the blog you would desire those within your friends list to read.

I pray that your day is moving at the speed of His will. Continue to meditate upon the Word of God, seek His face, and trust only within His commandments and precepts. May God bless and keep you.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Monday, August 29, 2011

You ARE Standing On The Shoulders Of Giants!!!

Hebrews 11;32-40 (KJV)

And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthah; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:
Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and inprisonment:
They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;
(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
And these all, having obtained the good report through faith, received not the promise:
God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.


Today's encouragement is fairly simple, in that you should be able to, already, see the greatness of faith. When you lay hold to your faith in Christ Jesus; the GOOD REPORT of Christ Jesus, you will be able to endure whatever it is that has to be endured. These verses highlight that the Bible does record the actions, exploits, situations, and circumstances of certain individuals who believed on God (to follow his commandments), as well as some who faithfully believed on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. But, these verses highlight that there were, also, those individuals who were not named yet suffered just as much for the Gospel. Why must they be highlighted? Because you are the eventual hope of their reason for suffering. You have a GOOD REPORT that is spoken of to this day. The Gospel of Jesus Christ IS being spoken: told to millions daily. These nameless individuals suffered because of the Gospel (v39 records that they didn't receive the "promise"); their listening, and taking in of the news of Jesus Christ ONLY. Let that sink into your spirit........

Your encouragement is that you HAVE received the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and you HAVE received the "promise" as well. How can you not endure? I mean, how can you not deal with that slightly irritating co-worker? How can you not suffer the difficulty that is currently present in your marriage? Why must you flee from the very light persecution of having to stand up for Christ within your social circle? Seriously, these are probably a few of the minor incidents we all go through; here in America, where we allow for an avalanche of "beliefs" to be expressed, constantly. But, we (the followers of Christ Jesus) care more for the self-salvation of comfort than the suffering of ridicule, separation, or mockings for the expression of Salvation in Christ Jesus.
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
Those are the spoken words of Christ Jesus (John 16;33). Our Savior, whom we believe we are paratakers with, said that He "overcame" the world. Then, shouldn't we, since we are "in" Him, be OVERCOMERS too?

I close out this bit of encouragement with what, I would suggest, is the resolution we possess due to the endurance of all those un-named individuals. You can read it for yourself.

Hebrews 12;1 (KJV)

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Friday, August 26, 2011

I Ain't Thinkin' Bout Me

Luke 9;23 (KJV)

And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.


This is going to be, pretty much, a confession.


Admitting a bit off the top, I failed to retain this bit of information just this morning, before starting this blog post. The neccesity to remember that this is Christ speaking is seriously paramount when you attain to study (to break this down), and put this into action. So, let us get a VERY GOOD understanding about this particular verse, and maybe you and I (mostly I) can readjust a few ways we operate to show more of Christ and less of ourselves.

First, Christ leads in with the condition "If". Stop right there. My Grandfather used to say, "If if was a fifth, we'd all be drunk." What does it mean? It means exactly what Christ meant when He began his statement. "This, what I am about to say CAN BE DONE, but you will have the freedom to do so or not." That is what I imagine Christ would say in today's time as he begins to give out this information. The important part that touches my mind about the "If", is that the word all by itself tells you that you are known to not maintain a position 100% of the time, and that the knowledge of that will not stop the information from going forward. Stop. Take the time to ponder that....

So now Christ says, "If any man WILL come after me". I capitalized the word 'will' for the effect because we, as those who would say we ARE following after Christ, have to stay in constant remembrance that this is our decision; active; constant. Again, why Christ begins the statement with the word "If". You do not have to 'come after me'. Kinda stings don't it? Someone knowing that you just might lie, to yourself, and say you will but knowing the whole time that you flounder at the thought of actually moving. Question: Why didn't Christ just let us off the hook and say, "You might be able to come after me"? I suspect (me thinking) it is because Christ knew, as you know, the power to 'Just Do It' IS within all of us. We have to make up our minds to access it. See, being strickly personal (transparent), I fall in and out of this ability to access quite frequently. Now it ain't all Summer Blockbuster Movie big, but I do, from time to time, run back to the place of "If" and point to it like, "Christ, you did say if." That's just me being honest about me. Prayerfully you all are examining yourselves. Moving on.

In the next part of Christ's statement, I have to give the key word in the Greek. "let him deny himself". Why do I get the mental picture of a fly avoiding a place like some repellant is on it? LOL Yup! That word, alone, brings about all manner of PRIDE having to be slain. And, if we admit it, we have allowed pride to become that secret friend, with benefits. Pride gets the benefit to claim all victories where we didn't desire to allow any other person to "SHINE" over the top of us us. That is why this part of Christ's statement violently tears away at our core being. Because Christ says that in order for us to 'come after Him', we are not only going to have to maintain constant desire to do it, but we are going to have to "DENY" ourselves while doing it. Now, that word deny, in the Greek, aparneomai (ap-ar-neh'-om-ahee), means: to deny utterly. Think of whatever you know you want to do tonight, then make the 180 degree turn away from the thought of yourself, only to 'come after' Christ. Got it? Are you shaking your head "No"? HAHAHAHAHA I did the first time the realization washed over my spirit. I did it just two minutes ago, when having to continue in the assistance of a friend who is only performing in the way that they have performed all of their adult life. Which, to a degree, is beneficial. It generates the grounds by which I get opportunity to let go of "If" and latch myself to the achor, "will", in order to continue to "deny myself", and 'come after Him'. Watch your thought process. This is not being a martyr, this is recognizing that when you say that you will do something, you WILL do it no matter the outcome. How else is this world to "see" all of Christ? You gotta DENY self.

The last part of the statement is "take up his cross daily, and follow me". What I enjoy most about this portion is the matter-of-fact way Christ lays out that this will occur every day of your life. No obligatory statement hidden in parable. No! Christ leads in with the condition, which gives you choice. Then proceeds to let you know that you will have to engage of your own free will. Make sure to deny yourself. And now, slaps you over the head with 'by the way, do this EVERYDAY'. Jesus got jokes!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHA I mean, look at what all is stated. Do you tell me that when this chick (okay my wife) gets on my nerves on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and even Thursday, I still have to wake up Friday and "Love" her? C'mon Christ! I denied myself, and 'came after you' all them other days, don't I get at least ONE DAY for me!!! The short answer, "No". This life, the one we live for Christ; that we profess to all men that we are living, doesn't have any place for selfish thoughts, plans, or actions. Oh, if this could have been realized so much more earlier in life. Alot of what we deal with, today, wouldn't be happening. And I speak solely to the child of God. We have this knowledge: at least we have opportunity to read it. But, we (and keeping it transparent), I mean I, should know enough to know that most of what I am dealing with now is due to the fact that I have travelled too far down this path, with Christ, to act as if I do not know I am going to have to "deny" myself and follow. Christ IS leading!!!!!

My Brothers and Sisters, today can start, again, the place where you engage in the life you are already professing to be living. All that has to be done is that you consider "If" you will or won't. But, I believe you "will" come after Him. Please do not forget that you must DENY yourself, and 'take up your cross daily'. While you FOLLOW Him. No, not that simple. Yes, that beneficial, glorious, peaceful, comforting, and full of Love. We have the ability to do this. It is, now, time to show the world Christ.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Monday, August 22, 2011

Gimme a minute......

SHUTTING DOWN the posts to the blog for awhile. Praying for all who would stop by and read. Please continue to pray for, and with me as well. See you all later.

Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Thursday, August 18, 2011

You Ain't The Only Fellow In This Ship (Get In And Row)

1 Corinthians 10;13 (KJV)

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.


Okay!!!!! Have you ever found yourself in a situation or place where you thought, or spoken to yourself, that, "Why am I the only one that goes through this kind of stuff?" Furthermore, it seems that "this kind of stuff" is, solely, meant for you to go through ONLY! Where they do that at?!?!?!?! My Brother, My Sister, please TRUST that your situation is not unique. And, there will always be someone just like you, going through exactly what you are going through. Don't believe me? Here is an example, and it just so happens to be from the files of Yer Brova's 'Recent Past'.

So, there I am. Broke. In need of "a financial miricle", and I am in need like YESTERDAY!!! I am out, within the city; sipping a cup of coffee at Starbucks ($1.95 a cup), and this dude breezes by my small table, on his way to the counter. As he pulls his hand out of his pocket, some money falls, perfectly in my direction, onto the floor. Now, as I rise to alert this gentleman of his "lost" money, I am reaching down to grab it up; to give to him, I notice that the bill is a $100. I halt my announcement! Pick up the money and notice that it ain't just a singular bill. No! This $100 bill is accompanied by four addition $100 bills...... Oh, so you know what is my mindset now? HAHAHAHAHAHA, Yes, I quickly sat and watched the man, who is now two persons behind the current person giving their order. He doesn't appear to be in distress about this "missing" money. So, now you all can imagine my mindset. Is this money from God? Has my need been met? Could the guy be an angel, and this is seriously for me?.... LOL, We all know that is not the case. Although it could have been, when I walked over to the gentleman and alerted him that he dropped the $500, his reaction was one of relief. That was his car payment. Oh, he did offer to purchase another cup of coffee for me: a fitting reward. But, the blessing was that after I sat a small time more, I came back to my apartment, checked the mail, and there was a check. Without going into massive details about how my Union contract is spelled out, this check was for all the vacation time I had incurred. I had forgotten all about it. Being on "lay off" status for as long as I had been, I had totally forgotten about the fact that I didn't indicate that I wanted the 'Vacation/Holiday Pay' after the end of the calendar year 2009. But God didn't forget!!!!


That small story, about myself, is just a reminder to those of you who are going through a slight bit of uncomfortable pain at this moment. Yeah, it may be heartache. It may be actually physical. But, whatever it is know that you are not alone in it. Someone else has gone through what you are going through, and someone else will, in the future, need to hear of how you got througb your time of need or temptation. What I do desire that you would do is to read the scripture one more time. Meditate upon it. Memorize it. Walk with it, active, within your heart, to understand that God isn't going to allow anymore to come upon you than you can bear. He understands what you are facing too. It isn't anything new... LOL It IS "common" to man. Seek God's wisdom about your matter. Sit, in study, of His word about how to overcome it. You can, also, confide in someone trustworthy. Talk with them, get the confirmation that it ain't outlandish or crazy, that what you are dealing with. Like I said earlier, TRUST, your situation isn't no more strange or difficult than any other person next to you.

That is the reason we call this a Fellowship. So that you understand you are not the ONLY FELLOW in the ship. Now, get in this boat, and row....


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

See What You Are Doing

Romans 3;23-26 (KJV)

For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God;
Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.


Let me share a tale with you. There once was this young man who had a serious bit of like for a certain young woman in his town. Everyday, after school, he would race around to the side of the school building, where this young woman would exit to walk home: he sometimes would make up excuses along the way because he lived in the opposite direction.

Anyway, the time fastly approached where the two began to strike up conversation, and learn of each other. As this was happening the young man would sit, with the young woman, on her front steps, and talk longer and longer. That is until one day when he realized that the sun was setting and he had to walk that long road back home. As fear and regret began to build in his heart, he said his good-bye to the young woman, and started walking. Of course he he also began to rehearse all of the appropiate excuses he could think of for coming home so late after school, missing dinner, and worrying his parents and siblings. Especially his father, although a gracious and forgiving man, he could extend some serious chasetisement when necessary. And, this long walk back home seemed oh so worthy of that chasetisement, considering the young man would be late all because he had liked some "girl". Father wouldn't stand for that excuse.

Just as that thought entered his head, the brightness of car headlights caused a shadow of himself to fall on the ground in front of him. The young man turned, placed his left hand over his brow to shade his eyes, as he looked. His father's Chevy! What would he say? What punishment should he expect? This young man's palms began to drip with sweat. His eyes grew to the size of quarters. The lump in his throat was too gigantic to swallow. As the car slowed, the young man's father rolled down the automatic window, and said, in a very calm and even voice, "C'mon, hop in." As the young man got into the car and pulled over his seatbelt, he began to open his mouth to give the best excuse that had entered his mind. But, just before a sound could reach his vocal cords, his father spoke up with, "Yeah! I remember when your mother used to have my nose so wide open, I would forget I had a family at home too. I am glad I saw you, about two weeks back, in front of that young lady's family's home. I began making an extra trip around the neighborhood everyday, because I knew this day would happen."
With that statement the father placed his hand on his son's head, gave it a bit of a shake, smiled joyfully as he remembered his love for his wife, and continued the drive home. Just as they pulled into the driveway of their home, the young man finally found the courage to speak up, "Dad? You knew this whole time I would be late on this day?"
"Not this particular day son, no. I am not God. But, when I saw you that day I knew this day wasn't far off."



Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible lists the Greek word for propitiation as 'hilasterion' (hil-as-tay'-ree-on). It means an expiatory (place or thing), as in something that atones for sin. Think the lid of the Ark (in the Temple): mercyseat.



As I used the tale to set your mind for the understanding that God sees you, not only where you are now. But, God DOES see where all your decisions, actions, and conversations will take you. Now, here is where your wig will really get pushed back. God saw all of this even before you were born. Yes! He did!

That is the reason Jesus had to go to the cross. You may not desire to believe that God knows all of you; to know every way you may turn based on every thought, motive, action, or word that you have, but it is true. And, this is so true: that God didn't want you to have "walk" with the devestating effects of those selective items, that he made sure to put in place a 'propitiation' for you. Because God Loves you that much. I pray you understand this. Oh, how I pray we all seriously understand that. Too many are walking around, today, dejected because of a decision, a word spoken, an action, or a thought that they had days, weeks, months, even years ago. God doesn't want that for them, I, or you. He saw that pain you carry. He said to himself that He knew you would need Him, so He sent Jesus; Himself, to be that 'thing or place' of mercy for you. Because you need it. Go back to the text.

Verse 23. For ALL have sinned. See it? You were seen by God. He knew about that little quirk even before you developed it. He saw how you allow for the enless streams of non-productive thoughts to run through your mind, grabbing at 'em, hoping to pull down something good. He saw exactly how you would end up bouncing from place to place, always because you cannot "get along" with those that take you in. Yet, you do not take the inventory on how you abuse the priviledge as soon as you drop your bags. Yes! All of these little examples we can relate to because we ALL have sinned. The examples are very light as to not induce tears from speaking the actual sin, itself. But again, that is the reason for Christ Jesus. He had to go up on that cross because God Loved us that much. It is rather astonishing when you sit back and think about it. Hallelujah!!!!!

My junk wasn't too much.... God saw it all, and the junk that may come. Because of that, and me not knowing I was going to collect so much junk, Christ Jesus: in his obedience, walked out his ministry, went to the cross, and died for me. For my junk.... Love!!!!!

My Brother, My Sister. I really do not know what you are dealing with. But, God knows!!!! He knows about it so well that He sent His son, His only begotten son, that you wouldn't have to deal with that "junk" any longer. Today! You can set it all down, and begin anew. Yes! You can. Once again, go with me to the Bible. Let's read Romans 10;9-11, okay. Got it? Let's read aloud.


That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
For the Scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.


Today is that day to not be ashamed. Today is your day to make that confession, and to believe unto rightousness. Today, accept the gift that was given so you do not not have to "walk" with all of what you have been carrying. Today is the day that you have been shown the propitiation for your your sin. Todag, you can enter into relationship with God through Christ Jesus, and have opportunity to live the rest of your days in relief.
Now, I suggest that you become a member of a solid Bible believing church in the area you live. If you are reading this, and live in Los Angeles, CA I suggest you come fellowship, and study with me at my church. It is New Dawn Christian Village. 2328 St. James Place, Los Angeles, CA 90007. We hold Sunday service at 10:30am. Prayfully, we will see you soon. May God bless and keep you.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Out My Mind

DISCLAIMER: This morning I will be speaking to you about somethings that I am thinking on. If you do not desire to read, because there will not be a Bible verse, I understand....


Why do you think the topic of relationship/marriage seems to be the issue often spoken, when it comes to us humans? Why is it most men and women, nowadays, are ONLY into that collector's frame of mind? Expending energy just to have an individual sitting around, waiting to be included within whatever moment of life the collector deems fit. What really happened to "Love"? Oh, I think this one is about to get dicey......

These ponderings come about because I had a thought came about, last night, that seriously paralyzed me for about as long as the thought rested with my mental ability to comprehend it. Yes, the thought was this, "Could everyone Love each other; to be of a giving, submitted heart; to be of service to another, and care deeply about them, without EVER seeking the opportunity to expect something in return"? Dangerous thing to ponder! Because if I answer 'Yes', then I most certainly have to be included within the "everyone" spoken about in the question. Again, dangerous to ponder. If I answer no, then the question raises the banner, "What does God do for you?" This is what happens to individuals who abstain from clouding their minds with drink, drugs, sex, and any other agent used to numb the recognition of our 'can get deep' parts of the mind. Because this kind of stuff is difficult to deal with. This learning to "Deny self" aspect of life more abundantly... LOL

Too often, I think, we, as humans, allow for "it just happens" to walk along side us, and then will enjoy when "it just happens" agrees to stand and take the blame for what we did. What we knew all along we WANTED to do. This is where it gets a bit dicey, for I am about to express an action I have been viewing and hearing about lately. My sisters, if you know that the dude is no good for you, why did you allow for this dude to 'raw dog': so now you pregnant? I ask due to the complaining you exhibit about his behavior. But, you know as well as everybody that sees you, this is the same dude you used to be in the middle of the mall, sanctuary, street, yard, livingroom, and in the middle of your dreams ARGUING with. Why you complaining about him, now? I give my thought on the observation. You WANTED him MORE than you wanted to DENY that he wasn't GOOD for you. So, "it just happened". If you start being truthful, with yourself, then you might just have that cloud taken away so you can SEE clearly: and make a few decisions based on this type of pondering I am performing. Cause you can ponder like this.

Now, my brother, why is it you seem to be caught up in this world's retelling of who a 'Man' should be? Yup, this question is based on observation as well. First, and foremost, could this way you conduct yourself (the brother that is feeling a tad bit offended at the question IS the brother I am directing this pondering at) be due to the fact that you lack confidence in yourself? Could it be because you did not desire to be ridiculed by others, who display such actions quite regularly? Maybe it is due to the lack of resolve you know you operate with? Can I tell you what my thought is, based on viewing you, and those just like you; because y'all seem to run in packs? My thought is that the man that was responsible for molding and shaping you failed you. Yes, it is quite simple. We are men. We do not overcomplicate things. Now, if you tell me that the man, who was responsible for molding and shaping you, was present in your life; plus he did play an active role in the molding and shaping of you.... well then, I would think you are displaying ignorant behavior just for the sake of being ignorant, and that, my brother, could be viewed as a form of terrorism. Oh yes it could!!! Why would you actively engage in the destruction of NOT ONLY your own character, but the character and memory of the man that took the time to mold and shape you. And, not to mention the destruction and carnage you leave behind in the beds and minds of women; our sisters, and future mothers of our children. But hey! None of that means anything to you because this is what the world says you are to do. Right? You're clouded. Allow that cloud to be taken away, so you can get to some ponderings too. Yup, you can ponder like this as well...

I could keep going, but to a degree it would not be of service to any of you who took the time to read this far. Most men enjoy wrapping others in a clock of verbage; it makes the man "feel" important, noticed, validated (because so many men are not validated), and respected. See, I know all of that about myself. I get all of that, already. No, I do not have a wife or children. I am a child of God!!! He assures me that all of those adjectives apply to me no matter what I go through or are facing. Therefore I would not care to saddle anyone else with the mindset that I am in "need" of those adjectives. This presentation was more for you all to see that the freedom one has, when walking behind Christ Jesus: to accomplish the will of God, will cause that simple act of allowing "it just happened" to not walk along side you. Because you will know that everything has to be performed "on purpose". Walk with purpose......


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Do You "See" Who You Are Following?

Luke 9;21-24 (KJV)

And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing;
Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and cheif priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.


A really close friend of mine, his wife made a very interesting statement. She spoke on her ponderings about subscribing to twitter; to begin her own twitter account, and her statement that was interesting to me (from remembrance) was that she didn't want to get a twitter account because she had an issue with twitter's slogan of "Follow Me". Now, if you are at all in tune with the frailty of humanity, then you too understand her, once, reservation. It is the same reservations I pray upon when making these presentations of encouragement. Because it has NEVER been my desire to hear or possess knowledge that someone is saying, "Well, Brova said."

Christ Jesus is speaking to the disciples about this very thing. About UNDERSTANDING who you are willing to set yourself behind and take in all of their words, speakings, thought processes, and mannerisms. Yup, FOLLOW!

See, Christ layed out what these men would have to expect if they made choice to follow (v22). Now, this relevant information was given right after Christ Jesus finished receiving, and confirming Peter's confession that Jesus is, indeed, the Christ of God (v18-20). What makes it "relevant"? At that time, and today even, Jews retained that the Christ would be a mighty King, that would come to set the kingdom. In their understanding this Christ would not be rejected, or be slain. Let alone this Christ, according to their understanding, would not RISE after any day.

So now Christ says, "If any man (and we know, today, this includes woman) is to come after me". I pray you didn't miss that? I pray you didn't miss Christ's Love for man, because of man's frail humanity. He tells them what a man is going to have to perform, in order to "follow". But, Christ leads in with the condition, "If". Hallelujah!!!! This is about to cause someone to GET RIGHT BEFORE GOD!!!!!! See, Christ knows you. You would ask, "He does"? Well, to keep it in context with the scriptures, so you cannot say, "Well, Brova said", let's roll on over to Hebrews. Hebrews 4;14-15 (KJV) states, Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
Christ, being wrapped in flesh (humanity) understands how difficult it can be, to willingly, FOLLOW "after" Him.

I, Yer Brova, didn't clue you in on all of what I would have to deal with, when beginning to make these presentations. I may not be able to dispense correct, timely, full of God's wisdom and knowledge instructions on how you should proceed in your daily goings. Surely, you should not, ever, look to me for your soul's salvation. Nope! Don't do that! But, I can point you towards the One who will do all of that. And, assure you that "If" you pay attention, not only will you receive your soul's salvation, but you will gain life eternal. That is what Christ explains further (v24), after he sets down what a person has to do to FOLLOW after him. Now, what you have to ask yourself, because Christ already told you by using the condition "If", is "Will I perform these conditions that Christ speaks of"? Let's look at these conditions again:
1. Deny yourself- Pretty much self-explanitory. I mean, you did cringe a bit just reading it, right? Well, that was you NOT denying yourself.
2. Take up your cross daily- Everyone of us has a "cross" to bear. Something or things that would and will prevent us from accomplishing the third condition. This "cross" CAN BE managed. How, you may ask. Again, Christ knew about your frailty, and he spoke your relief (Matthew 11;28-30).
3. Follow Christ Jesus- This one, being the last is so definetely not the least. You ONLY follow Christ's Image, Example, Instructions, Commands. Please understand, no man (of humanity on this earth) will provide you with all you need in order for you secure your soul's salvation, or your eternal life. Christ is that, ALONE. Please understand that.


Honestly, there is nothing else for me to say. When we set out to follow behind Christ, we pretty much do not need to hear a whole lot of other's speech. Which, in turn, makes us learn how to keep our own speech brief. Hallelujah!!! I just received a bit of a lesson right then.... LOL Speak the Word, alone. Wow! Yeah, Wow..... I am praying for any of you who are reading this presentation. Praying that if you do not know Christ, personally; for yourself, that you come to know Him. Praying that you will receive the Word of God, soon. Meaning receive a good study Bible for you to start reading, studying, and learning the Word of God; for yourself. And, praying that you, soon, become a part of a solid Bible believing congregation, within your area. Now, if you are within the city of Los Angeles, CA I invite you to come fellowship with me and my church family. Join us at New Dawn Christian Village, 2328 St. James Place Los Angeles, CA 90007. We hold Sunday service at 10:30 am. Hopefully I will see you there this Sunday. Remember, know who you are "Follow"ing.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst


Monday, August 8, 2011

All I Got, In This Life, IS My Word

Numbers 23;19 (KJV)

God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

Isaiah 40;8 (KJV)

The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand forever.

Hebrews 4;12 (KJV)

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and shaper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.


I was awakened this morning with these three scriptures, in this order, in my heart; knowing that they were to be presented on the blog this morning. Now what is powerful about these, as they were resting on my spirit, is that they seem to be respective of God, alone. Yes, they speak of God, alone. But, another scripture, when studied; broken down, is the key to alerting all of us that these three scriptures ARE speaking of us, as well.

That scripture is John 1;1:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

What are you saying Brova? I am saying that too many of us are running through the streets of our cities, towns, our neighborhoods, and even our homes ignorantly (for the sake of just being ignorant) not considering that we are disrepectful to God, because we are oh so disrespectful with our word. Yes, I an speaking, clearly, of that promise, vow, assuance which you give out so freely; to whomever you give it to. And then, discard the very importance of it as soon as you turn to go on your way. THIS IS PROBABLY THE SECOND MOST DESTRUCTIVE COMPONENT TO OUR ABILITY TO BE "COHESIVE" WITHIN OUR COMMUNITIES!!!!!!!!!! The first being TRUST. Brothers and Sisters, do not take this presentation of encouragement as just another good read, and allow it to slip away from your active mindset. You are going about your day, everyday, throwing out your word. Answer me this question, and be honest. "How much of your word 'returns unto you void'?"

Yes! This IS too heavy; especially for a Monday. But, you DID go to church yesterday: which is how you have set in your mind to be the #1 explanation given to PROVE your affliation with God. But, would you consider that maybe God is sitting in heaven, waiting to "affliate" Himself with you as soon as you KEEP YOUR WORD?

Please, my family, do not allow for another moment to pass by without you taking in the thoughtful consideration of who you are TO God; THROUGH God, and BECAUSE of God. Then consider how you REFLECT God on those days when you are being viewed by the individuals who do not get to experience the #1 way you explain your affliation with God. I mean with those individuals all you have to give is YOUR WORD.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Blessings Are Given. Do You Accept Them?

Matthew 5;1-12 (KJV)

And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kindgom of heaven.
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.


The exegetical notes on this particular set of scripture I will repeat, as given by Spiros Zodhiates, Th.D. As follows:

The Greek word translated "blessed" is makarioi (mak-ar'-ee-os), which means to be "fully satisfied." In Classical Greek, the word referred to a state of blessedness in the hereafter. In the NT, however, the term is used of the joy that comes from salvation (cf. Psalm 51:12). This satisfaction is not the result of favorable circumstances in life. It comes only from being indwelt by Christ. Therefore, it would be wrong to translate makarioi "happy" (derived from the English word "hap") because it is connected with luck or favorable circumstances.

Blessedness is not static, but progressive. This progress depends upon the fulfillment of the conditions set down in these Beatitudes: (1) "The poor in spirit..." (ptochois [pto-khos'], v3) indicates a "helpless" person as opposed to penes (pen'-ace) which means "poor, but able to help oneself." The first step toward blessedness is a realization of one's own spiritual helplessness. (2) "They that mourn..." (v4) are those who sorrow for their sins and the sins of others. (3) The "meek" ones are willing to see themselves as they really are (v5). This concept they have of themselves is evidenced in their submission to God and His Word, as well as in their dealings with others. (4) "They which do hunger..." (v6; from the Greek, hoi peinontes [pi-nah'-o]) could be better rendered "the hungering ones." This indicates a constantand rcurrent satisfaction with God's righteousness; the nourishment received from being filled is expended in hungering anew for another filling. (5) The "merciful" are characterized by a caring attitude for those who are in misery (v7). They take the heartaches of others and make them their own. (6) "Purity of heart" can only be acquired through the continuous cleansing that believers experience when they have fulfilled the previous conditions of blessedness (v8). The purer a person becomes, the more clearly he can see God. (7) A "peacemaker" is not simply someone who tries to stop fueding between nations and people (v9). It is a believer that has experienced the peace of God and who brings that peace to his fellow human beings. (8) Being "persecuted for righteousness' sake" causes a person to reach the highest level of the satisfaction of blessedness (v10).

This state of blessedness begins the very moment that a person believes on Jesus Christ for salvation. This is demonstrated by the fact that the promises concerning the kingdom of heaven in verses three and ten are in present tense. While in this life one may enjoy the results of implementing these truths, the ultimate condition of blessedness will be experienced in heaven (v12).


Whew! That WAS a mouthful... LOL. Anyway, I desired to share that with you because of the fact that the very last part expressed applies to us: in whatever stage of life we are found to be present; operating within. I, when studying this, saw myself asking people, after we would read the beatitudes together, "Do you "accept" that these are Truth?"
Hence today's presentation of encouragement. If you read the beatitudes and can, with honesty of heart, accept that they ARE Truths; to be given to you to possess and believe on, then you DO HAVE them. Understand? Walk them out: apply them in all situations and circumstances. For these utterances of Jesus Christ, Himself, are not cut and paste items that ONLY apply if the situation calls for it; meaning outside your grasp. No, these are given to you; Christ spoke these Truths for you to retain; for you to possess and carry with you, wherever you find yourself, and whatever situation you are found to be present in at the time. That is why I ask, "Do you accept them?"
If you accept these Truths, then they ARE your's. Period. You have them. They are with you. You can OPERATE within them.

You have been blessed. You ARE blessed. God BLESSES you.


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

I Will Tell You, "Why Her?"

Proverbs 7;1-10 (KJV)

My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.
Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.
Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.
Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:
That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.
For at the window of my house I looked through my casement,
And behold among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding,
Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house,
In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night:
And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of a harlot, and subtle of heart.


***WARNING: THIS POST IS GOING TO ANGER ALOT OF MEN!!!! PLEASE UNDERSTAND THAT EGOS WILL GET BRUISED***


Yesterday, via my facebook page, I saw that one of my young, male, facebook, friends had "been" tagged (attached, afixed, included in, lumped in) to a photo of this non-discript, seemed to be surgically enhanced, oh-so-obvious for tittalation, female. What made the viewing of his name being "tagged" to the photo even more of a let down, to me, is that this young man has expressed, to me, that he desired to not "walk" as all other young men (in his age range; 18-25) are walking nowadays. Plus, the female in the photo has become somewhat of a facebook legend. Having several other names, and selling all manner of athletic shoes and handbags as she mozys on through the social world. You all, if on facebook, have ran into this woman. She seems to have a cult like following of men in tow, all the while, gathering more as she "walks on by". And, here comes one of the biggest 'but' you will ever see.

BUT, I can see why those young men, and grown men too, are "being" tagged to her photo. LOL Chick is all kinds of fiiiiioooooonnnnnneeeee!!!!!! I do have to admit it. From a TOTALLY humanistic, fully male: to possess a penis, standpoint, that chick is-as the kids would say-the business. All that ummm.... backside! And, not to mention she got that coca-cola, figure 8, body. Yup! I can see why all those men "follow" behind her. I am pretty sure, if you sat and studied this portion of the Proverbs, you can "see" why as well. AND THE SLOW PAIN TO THE EGO BEGINS TO SET IN........


In this portion of the Proverbs (v7) the word understanding, in the Hebrew (leb [labe]) means: the heart; (figuratively) the feelings, the will and even the intellect. Uh-Oh! I would like to say that I, even, felt a slight twinge inside of my "manliness" after revisiting that definition. Whew! The will. Even the intellect. You mean the wise counsellor, here in the Proverbs, is in actual possession of knowledge about the young men who are "being" tagged to that chick? This wise counsellor knows that these young men do not keep, lay up, or bind any of the Father's words, commandments, or law as the 'apple of their eyes'. Nor do they write them upon the 'tables of their hearts'. Is that pain getting a little more noticable? It should be. The wise counsellor said that you are easily "seen" from casement of the window to the counsellor's house. The wis counsellor sits, and watches. Discerns you, yes YOU, as you go about your way; at twilight, and evening, and even in the black and dark night. Which is more than likely when you were "being" tagged? Was it? Oops.... I apologize. Didn't mean to strike your forehead. More pain to the ego, huh?

In verse 10, the wise counsellor gives a tiny, brief description of this chick, and I bet if you go back and check that photo you "got" tagged to, you will see that the chick is the same as this chick. They might as well be considered the "same girl". No Usher or R. Kelly. I mean, I did (and have no problem with the admission) view the photo. Shoot, I went into the album mark, 'Girl Next Door'. I know what!!!! She ain't 'Next Door' to me. That chick is, in my mind, man-u-fac-tured. She is making sure to wear the "correct" outfits (to lure you in through sight), and speak the "correct" phrases (through the promise of sexual satisfaction). C'mon fellas!!! Admit it. You so desire the woman in your life to 'play the part' that this chick is playing? Yup! There it is!!!!!

Wide open ANGER because I just bruised your ego! Look Bruh, this is love at its best. You all know what you were thinking when you seen that chick come across your screen. Hell, I know what I was thinking. And, I had to scream "Jesus!" to keep myself from "being" tagged. Why is it that you keep falling for this type of chick? Why is it any of us men are still subceptable to this kind of chick? I will offer you my thought of "Why". Because, like the wise counsellor goes on to say (v24-27), we allow for our 'ears' to be stopped up and not "hear" what wisdom is saying about this kind of chick. We allow for our 'heart' to "decline" to her ways. That word, decline, in the Hebrew: (satah [saw-taw']) means; to deviate from duty.

Whew! Yes, I know. Sobering thoughts come flooding back to you about what you were "ignoring" when you keep going back to view the photo of this chick. All the questions you, seriously, couldn't answer when you were being questioned by your woman, about the photo of this chick. Your woman was grillin' you wasn't she? Did it appear that she was 'desparate' to hear your answer? That's because you 'desparately' need to ask God why you keep going back to view the photo of that chick. This is the Love I spoke about Brother. Unfortunately, this chick continues to be "popular" because we, as men, still need to snatch this thought of what we think love is away from our thought that it is fulfilled with sexual gratification, ONLY. Brother, I am a man; no better than you, or thinking that I am walking on clouds with Jesus, but what I have come to understand (Thank You Nikki) is that the expression of love is so much more than laying with a woman. The wise counsellor knows this, for the wise counsellor is Love. Love IS God. Let it soak in Bruh, allow this Truth to soothe; to minister to your heart. Mending that bruised ego.

The title said that I would tell you, "Why Her?". But, we, men, know why and unless we turn away from why it is her: to see exactly who God will reveal her to be, then we, men, will forever find ourselves "being" tagged to this kind of chick. Un-Tag yourself Bruh..... Disconnect yourself from the lie. Let yourself "see" exactly who this chick is, and why she IS so detrimental to your life. You can reclaim your intellect; your will; your understanding of why this chick is not beneficial to the life which God gave you, and is the way He is leading you. Un-Tag yourself....


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst

Monday, August 1, 2011

All Things Do Mean "ALL" Things

Romans 8;26-30 (KJV)

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.


Good Morning all!!!
It has been awhile (what seems to feel like a long while), and I thank all who prayed for me as I battled that small bout of stomache bug. Be careful when eating chicken... LOL A Brova wasn't doing so well. HAHAHAHAHA

Anyway, I have had this within me since Saturday afternoon because I happened upon a photo that brought back a memory of where I used to be (in an emotional sense and concerning my walk with Christ), and I almost allowed for the this lesson to pass me on by. So, of course I asked our Father if he could mold it in a way; to make it presentable for my Brothers and Sisters, whom I fellowship with from time to time: here in this "social" world. It isn't too long, or too deep, but it does allow for us to get at some of those things which have occurred, or are occurring, that seem to only have 'God's much needed handprint' on them. Because that appears to be the only explination for these events to occur.

So, you find yourself (and I am utilizing this for example) on the other end of the financial spectrum. You are not completely broke, but your "net worth" could be expressed by the price tag on a really, really, outrageously, overpriced pair of designer shoes. Yes, there are a pair of shoes that cost four figures. We on the same page? Good. This is bad, to you, only because when you were financially "secure"; in the recent past: 3 years ago, you weren't anywhere near a frivolous spender. How could you be, now, looking at an account balance that shows if one rent check and car payment is made, your financial life would broadcast $0.00? I mean you didn't wake up one morning, announcing to yourself, "This is the day that I put into motion an action that will bring about the eventual, debilitating, outcome of my financial life. But, here it is anyway. How did you find yourself here? How did any of us find ourselves here; with any of the issues we are attached to? How Lord, could this be our place when we didn't sheepishly follow a path to here? How is it we find ourselves, like the red dot on a local mall's floorplan map: "You are HERE"? Yes, Lord! This our prayer!!

Now, are we ready? Are we ready to hear what the answer is? Truly ready to take this answer and apply it to this present time, set of circumstances, and present mindset? Okay, GO BACK TO THE SCRIPTURES AND READ VERSE 28!!!!!!!

Hallelujah! Thank you Lord Jesus! I told y'all this wasn't going to be long. See, verse 28 is a sort of bridge within the short statement Paul is making. The Holy Spirit is within you. Therefore Christ rests within you. Ultimately, God IS in you. Clarify that to yourself (by reading 26 and 27). Again, read 28. What does it say 'we know'? What? Yup, that's right. ALL things!!! Verses 29 and 30, the other side of this bridge, tells you exactly who you are to God because of how he Loves you. This is what "hand walked" me to a Brother, yesterday, to express the way I was feeling (concerning my emotions) and ask him to agree with me that I am who God said I am. Which surprised me, since I didn't plan on telling anyone about what I was dealing with. It was small, not "worth" talking about: let alone talking about it with a Brother that may not understand. *Gotta watch how the enemy will try and creep up into your thought process.*

Brothers and Sisters, today's encouragement, like all the others, is for you to sit, with God's word, and truly get to the understanding that you are who God said YOU ARE. I could have flung this presentation at you to make you jump and sing with heavenly emotion, but that would have caused you to miss what is the actual point of why you are present, with me. You have to KNOW this for yourself! I mean get it buried deep down within yourself; to have it at the ready when situation, such as the example I used, arise in your life: here in this world. The Word states that you are God's, and He "sees" your heart. "Sees" that you are in a place, came from a place, or about to enter a place where you are gonna need to be watched over; even when you do not know that watching over is what you need. But, He already has it set (and here is what I like) 'IN YOUR FAVOR'!!!!!! He slapped His approval on you, by labelling you, "Predestinated", "Justified", and "Glorified". Ooooooooooo!!!!!! You better get this knowledge! Grab ahold to it, and pull it to your heart!

My Brother, you are more than them Jordans. More than that Gucci belt. More than the thug image you try so hard to portray. More than the Benz you are breaking your neck to drive. Them females don't, oops CAN'T, handle who you are when you walk within the TOTAL LOVE of God...
My Sister, you are more than that last bag of fake hair you bought. More than those Monolos you spent your last paycheck on. More than that pair of Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses you wear to hide the pain. More than the lease payment that you just had to "entertain" to receive. These dudes cannot deal with you, when allow for the FULL LIGHT of God to shine through you...


All things work together!!!! ALL!!!


Go on! Sit with God, learn who you are to him; to receive what you have already been told you are to receive. You will find that this present position, you are in, is nothing more than another opportunity for God to get His Glory out of your life. It is the TRUTH, but do not take my word for it. As a matter of fact, I desire that you don't credit me at all. Sit with the Word of God, and count me as the liar, to prove His word TRUE. Come back with the good report of how the Word worked within your life. And, let us rejoice together at who you are in the eyesight of God. I am praising his Holy name right now, waiting on your witness. Enjoying the knowledge that you have already conquored. Go forth my Brother. Go forth my Sister. You are a child of God, and who or what can stop you?


Holla,
Yer Brova Catalyst