Loving Knowledge is Power

Love builds up while knowledge puffs up...May knowledge build up your mindset and transfer the truth to your heart on how to exude a greater love...Without love, u only hold arrogant intelligence that no one wishes to be bothered with...~Inspired by Freedom Radio #WhereIsYourLove???

Versatility in Communicating

Colossians 4:6 (KJV)

Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

*Every person that you encounter is different and should be treated as such. You will not handle everyone with the same mannerism due to these differences, and you may find that the connection will differ with each correspondent. Therefore, do not group one race, culture, sex, or creed as being all the same. Also, do not adopt this mentality that people can be treated the same. Instead, ask God how to approach them and treat them in order to uncover how to properly communicate with them, and how to broaden your mind on how to treat others. We all came from different backgrounds, and have different levels of understanding. However, we are all capable of connecting if we learn to walk in love.

There is Deliverance in the Light

Ephesians 5:8-10 (NIV)

8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord.

*When you accept God into your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus is your Lord and savior, you no longer fade into the masses as the norm...You now stand out, and hold the responsibility of helping others see the entrapment and complacency of darkness in order to guide them to the deliverance and authenticity of the light. However, some of us forget our responsibility and feed into the temptations and distractions that darkness brings. We look back at things and debate if life was easier on the other side; we become caught up in reminiscing about the so called "fun" days that only led us to a continuous loop of foolishness, and hindered us from growing; or some of us are too afraid to embrace the potential for change, and hold on to what we know and have experienced before. However, God is telling u to let it go!...ALL OF IT! Being in the light may seem foreign or even hard at times because you may be still holding on to that comfort and ability to hide in darkness...Yet, hiding never allowed you to be found in order to be relocated into betterment. Instead, you were just bumping around in the same spot, while suffering unnecessary contusions from being hit by what you were too blind to see. Allow God to shine light on your situation, provide you with clear guidance, and remove you from elements of darkness that should no longer cover up the brightness of the future He has for you. Find out what path would enhance your circumstance and please God, without further delay or entanglement with things that need to be exposed and disposed. How can you ever move forward if you are lugging around garbage, and unable to properly see where you are going?

A Gift That Should Keep On Giving

2 Timothy 1:6-8 English Standard Version (ESV)

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

* Paul is reminding us that we all have a gift inside that has been tailor-made specifically for us, and it aligns with our purpose that God placed on our lives. The problem is that we do not explore the essence of that gift, the possibilities that come with it, try to uncover what it is, or are too busy to even dedicate that gift back to God. Instead, we may allow our degrees, careers, other people, or even mishaps in life to defer us from our gift that could potentially unlock our dreams and desires of our heart. The same power that Paul had with the laying of His hands, and ability to persevere and excel with His gift (regardless of the circumstance) is the same power that lives in us. We hold the power to spark a desire to explore our gift, share it with love, and implement it with a sound mind no matter what other titles people try to place on us or whether or not the gift is accepted. God gave it to you, and it was meant to be utilized...not just for the sake of enhancing God's kingdom, but to give you a rewarding experiencing of enhancing your life as well. How sweet is our God for wanting to bestow such a thing upon us? Therefore, don't let life pass you by through embracing what others try to place upon you because you are too afraid to step outside of the norm. Find freedom in embracing your gifts and talents, and allow God to guide you in this process of being authentic and a blessing for others.

Two Heads are Better then One

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, NIV

*It is often a natural instinct to want to be by yourself or handle a particular situation alone, especially if you feel you have messed up or do not want others to know your business. However, this is the very time when you need others in your life be it to help you grow, find balance, give, or just speak life into your situation. However, be led on who you allow to speak over you and the words you should be accepting. We are all connected to other individuals; therefore, not only is it our job to conduct our lives in ways to reach people, but we are to accept when people need to reach out to us as well. Be the vessel that someone needs today in order to get them where they need to be for tomorrow.

Out with the Old and In with the New

Romans 12:2 NIV

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.

*A lot of times, we allow our past experiences, worldly statistics, or the opinions of others who have not consulted with God dictate the outcome and choices of our lives. If you are a believer, you have access to things that others don't and you are suppose to expect the unexpected. Therefore, why let the norm define you? Same thing with your past...If you are a new creature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17), why do you continue to allow old mistakes or conclusions haunt you? It's a new day of possibilities in a new life. Therefore, consult with God before crossing something out or coming to a conclusion.

Loving Information

Colossians 3:9-10 (NIV)

9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.

*We should be able to confide in one another (James 5:16), and tell each other the truth without the concern of judgment. If we have adopted God's way of thinking, and put aside our old nature of looking down on, assuming things, or bashing others then the people who confide in us should not be concerned about how we will look at them or treat them. Remember, iron is suppose to sharpen iron (Proverbs 27:17). However, the sharpening should occur with love and prayer. This is why it is helpful to speak the word only to avoid releasing your own opinion of an individual. Everyone is not meant to speak into your life (2 Timothy 3:8), but that is not to say that we should be in isolation or condemnation because of our circumstance and left to bare things alone. Open up your heart to relate before you judge and start a debate. All people will not accept the word given to you from God, but two things matter: 1.That you applied the information with love, and 2.That you didn't lean to your own understanding while giving or receiving the information (Proverbs 3:5-6).

How Do You Convey the Truth?

Your love walk shouldn't include your personal gavel or ability to throw the book at a person...Instead, it is your opportunity to understand that individual, love on through the kindness of guidance, and perhaps even reflect on your own shortcomings. We are here to lovingly sharpen each other; not dismiss or insist on overpowering someone even if what your saying proves to be true.

Defy vs Being Defined

Don't be a part of the STANDARD, but be on STANDBY to encourage others to dare to be different...Ppl should not DEFINE u, but you should DEFY the norm set by ppl...

Jeremiah 29:11(KJV)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. #ExpectTheUnexpected

Verbal Observation Through Discernment

If you are willing to listen, you can always find out the true intent of a person...Most people verbalize their desires,  intentions, or even the urge to try you b4 creating physical contact. The verbal element is often the lead in for seeking consent to take action....#Listen&Observe #WeGiveGodConsentWhenWePray

Unfailing Love

Romans 5:7-8 (NIV)

7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

*What is awesome about these verses is the illustration of the love of God for us, and how He wants us to view others in the same light. For instance, verse seven expresses how it is easy to potentially do something generous for a person who seems worthy enough for the cause. However, how much greater is it for you to take that same consideration into account with someone less worthy? Let's go even deeper....Are we EVER completely worthy of the things we ask God for, or how He views us? Technically not, but our efforts to love Him and seek Him are what makes Him go the extra mile to cover us even more so. He is so loving and patient that He covers the sinner, who thinks nothing of Him, with grace. Now, this is not a license to go bananas in wrong doing, but let's keep it real: We all do and say things because of curiosity, because we just plainly want to, because of emotional trauma, or perhaps out of not knowing any better. Yet, He takes all that into consideration to give His son's life and find love for us. Now, since many of us do not have as much of a hardship as crucifixion to bare, can we not find that same love towards our brothers and sisters? Sure, it is easy to love them when they are "good" or on one accord with you, but what about those times when things aren't so great? Will that change the outcome of your love for them? When thinking of others, let's think of the love of Christ...Even if you have to love them from a distance, any and all situations still require love...Use prayer and discernment on how to apply it.

Food 4 Thought: Believe Big

Our limitations are not based on God's capabilities, but rather how much faith we have in them...What are u believing God for? Now, let Him put His super on your natural thinking...

Open Up to Make Room to Be Entrusted

Great responsibility is required of those who desire greatness...

Ephesians 6:10 KJV

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

*This short verse speaks volumes about God's capabilities, especially when it comes to your own lifestyle. Yet, we are slow to entrust our life to the very one who gave us life. We are often aware of God's capability to enhance the lives of others as we listen intently to their testimonies, we notice all the good elements of the planet that bring us happiness, and we celebrate the victories we receive or that others arrive at daily. Yet, we still can't quite grasp the desire to seek Him for EVERY aspect of our own lives....We still freak out even when we know who is on our side; we are still making our own plan of action to fix a situation; we still set our own scheduled; you are still telling people how you feel vs what you should be led to say; and we still open up our mouths to say the opposite of what He promises. Why is that? Could it be that you are so in tuned with getting your point across that you can't put God first? Believing in His capabilities and not remixing it with our own words and agendas seems to be a stronghold for many, yet it is so simple to fix...Think about it: Matthew 6:33 tells us to seek ye first the kingdom of God, and all things shall be added. Yet, in those simplistic instructions, people still miss the mark to get their point across or try to be in or a part of things they were never meant to face. I challenge you today to think of the areas that you never discuss with God, barely visit with Him on, or every now and then place before Him. Take these things and people before Him to see what He says, and watch Him place His super on your natural understanding when you bare all to Him.

Bonding by Relating

Sometimes it's just nice to have fun with people, on their level, as long as it doesn't go against the word and altar your character. After all, Jesus created parables to give people a better understanding...Why can't we explore the likes of others and talk to them in a way that provides understanding while winning the soul and heart at the same time? Exploring and understanding others realms may inturn broaden your own mind....

Philippians 2:5-8

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death even death on a cross!

Love Takes Action

1 John 3:18 (NIV)

18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

*It's so easy to say we love someone be it out of habit, because it feels like it is the helpful thing to say in certain scenarios, or because the idea of verbalizing love should be enough for a person to know that you care. However, is there any truth behind your words of affirmation? Is it even enough to only say something, but never have that feeling conveyed physically? Sure affirmation is acceptable, but often the words are uttered in hopes of sparking an action to take place that reacts to those words.

It's so easy to love on people with words because it is often the lazy man's way of being involved without having to put any physical labor into it. For example people love to say they will pray for someone, but few allow themselves to be a vessel to take action in assisting with the problem. It is easy to say you love someone yet do your own thing, as it is killing two birds with one stone. While others are quick to love God or love those in the world be it out of admiration, (like that shown towards stars), or love voiced in hopes of getting people saved. Yet, no action is taking place to grow with or understand your brothers and sisters in Christ. However, few actually zone in on the craftsmanship that love takes to physically evolve within any type of relationship. Even from a simplistic standpoint, it is so easy to tell someone you are there for them and willing to listen. Yet you give little or no attention, never keep a date, rarely return a phone call, or make promises that you never plan to keep. God is trying to tell us that it takes more then words to convey love....It is the act of what you are willing to do to show it. So, let's try everything we are led to do and never give up....

Focus On His Goal

Colossians 3:2 ESV

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

*Many of you may be familiar with this particular verse, but take a moment to meditate on what God is telling you...So many of us see negativity on a daily basis. Some of the negativity may be as extreme as death, while others may witness a traffic jam and call that terrible. Regardless to how big or small the circumstance is to us, God still wants us to focus and meditate on His capability to cause change and any positivity that we can see and  obtain from the situation. If you are not an optimistic person of faith at the moment, this will begin the process of you looking to God for guidance in order to uncover HIS IDEA of a solution or how you can be used as a vessel to assist. Remember, regardless of what you are experiencing you are still connected to people and have a job to do for your purpose. If we stay focused on the current situation, we can find ourselves accepting the circumstance while at the same time submerging ourselves in the turn of events. This causes you to become weakened and maybe cross over into disbelief because you have taken your mind off of how God sees you and what He promises, and have decided to adhere to the never ending and unresolved circumstances within the cycle of life that's orchestrated by the world. Therefore, who cares what other people think, what doesn't make sense, or what isn't lining up with logic?! Logic does not define those who are of God, but only the ability for all things to be possible through Christ Jesus (Matt. 19:26).

Instructions Save Time

Proverbs 19:20 (NIV)
Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.

*Many people do not mind listening to advice or teachings given by God be it through a pastor, or an individual that was sent by God to you. However, utilizing the advice seems to be where the disconnect takes place. It's easy to read and enjoy the word,  but applying it to everyday life can be difficult for some. Think about it: How many times have you or someone you know said "amen" in church (meaning "so be it"), yet you or that person goes out into the world and begins to worry, suffer, date whoever they choose and not who God sends, drink, curse, fix up your own concoction of how you are going to make it, and do other things that God hasn't given you the green light on? This is why people go around in the same old circle, stay on the same path, and never progress as they should because you only LISTENED to the advice, but didn't adhere to God's instruction on how to apply the word and advice to your own life. Rather then embrace progression or uncover a solid solution, people often justify staying in mess because they are afraid of change or put the idea of change on the back burner since it currently doesn't make sense....Of course it won't because you haven't BEGUN to follow and implement the instructions God gave you. As always remember that a situation is prolonged not because God wants us to stew in our mess, but because you chose to sit there. Some things take time, but examine if you are on your timing or His...

Something to Make You Go Hmmm

Food 4 Thought:

How much do we trust God?

God tells us in Mark 11:24 to ask for what we want, and it is obtained if we believe we have received it. Habakkuk 2:24 reminds us to write the vision and make it plain...This vision includes tangible things. Therefore, if God wants us to be specific, why do people continue to say they don't have a preference yet complain? (Rhetorical question)...If you don't know what to ask for, then how can u believe (let alone identify) what you are suppose to be receiving? Perhaps people are so afraid of being let down, disappointed, or tested to obtain specifics that they settle for anything...throwing up cards in the air for more options, but restrained by generalities rather then going for the goal

Be Free At Last

John 8:31-32 (NIV)

31 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

*At the end of the day, it doesn't matter what you have done or what people think and say. It only matters what God thinks and promises if we choose Him. Choosing God includes respecting and adhering to His teachings in the Bible, and not leaning on our own understanding. It is so easy to just read the word, hear it from others, or go to church. Yet, never live it or so much as apply it to your everyday life. What people fail to realize is how life is more smoother and filled with more promises if we zone in on what God is telling us and trying to show us vs what other people are doing or trying to make sense of in society. There is a world of opportunities and possibilities when we adhere to the word and it truly sets us free, while the organization of the world has designed an unorthodoxed system of compromisation and complication that is designed for failure. Even if you are a believer, you still need to be mindful of falling into the same habits, same worldly way of thinking, the trap of isolation, or the lack of dedication to grow and go deeper in the word daily. Traps are always set to get you caught up in a loop of confusion, a cycle of habitual sin, or a limited mindset that can't receive things that defy the norm. Allow God's teachings in His word to change your life today. He is always free to listen and help us...Can we take the time to set ourselves free by listening to Him?

Life Under Fire 2 Polish Us for Our Reward (BT. vol.7)

1 Peter 4:12 ESV
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

*Everyday there are options that come our way...Options we know we aren't suppose to choose, and the option to choose what we should. These options sometimes arrive in what seems to be a small, tempting package that in reality can lead to condemnation and deter you from seeing and grasping the very opportunity that is meant for us. For example, many believe a sip here and a puff there won't hurt; one picture showing a little skin is all in fun; one touch will quiet my senses and won't go any further; one day of missing service never hurt a thing, and it's not like the primary speaker is there anyway; one more purchase can be covered by paying a bill later; I can wait to do that later or be a little late; reaching out never hurt anyone; or watching one clip is just satisfying my curiosity...The list goes on. However, those little blips here and glitches there actually trigger a snowball effect that begins the process of distraction or the option of prolonging your circumstance, and keeping you from your blessing. While these little foxes try to nip at our vines (Song of Solomon 2:15), our very blessing could be passing us by bc we became distracted by something that seemed little that actually took our focus off of watching and believing for something great. Then we become surprised and wonder how did this happen, or how could this be?...Are we really surprised? Our faith is under trial daily, our desires are being attacked bc there is the ability for them to come true, and the devil is looking for an opportunity to try us as he did Jesus (Luke 4:13). However, this is why it is important to spiritually feed yourself daily in order for our eyes to be open for instructions (Psalm 119:18), lean not on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6), and never settle bc God came to give us life more abundantly (John 10:10). Therefore never be surprised by an attack bc the trial of our faith is always being tested for reward purposes or to take you out of the game (Jeremiah 17:10). Do your best to not be knocked off of your square, but if it should occur, then pick yourself up from the temptation of habitual consumption and try again.

Spirit Led or Fleshly Unfulfillment

Anyone can get sex anytime or any place they desire, but what is sexy is someone who waits on the appropriate timing of the Lord....#RealTalk #HoldOn #GoodThingsCome2ThoseWhoWait

Putting Things In Perspective

Patience helps establish a perspective, a perspective puts things in its proper place, and the right place now opens up a broader view to see more windows of opportunity ...#AllInTheMind,FeltInTheHeart,&ControlledByFaith

Where Does Your Trust Lie? (BT. vol 6)

Psalm 9:10 (NIV)

Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.

*If you really know God, are aware of His capabilities, and have experienced the wonders of His glory then you should know that He is trustworthy. In order to fully understand His capabilities, you must continue to build a relationship with Him and draw closer to Him daily (James 4:8). He needs to be the focus of each desire, the head of every perspective, and the core of every act of faith (Matt. 6:33). As you build upon your relationship with Him, you will find that guidance towards what is best for you and your situation is clearer, and that you experience more peace and protection no matter what you may face. Even when your intentions are well, leaning to your own understanding will NEVER provide you with the fulfillment of His direction.

God promises to never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6), but we must acknowledge His presence and incorporate Him in every big or small part of our lives to receive all He has in store for us. How much are you willing to trust Him, or take matters into your own hands? It's time to trust Him to give you the solution, and not be satisfied with a temporary fix.

Focus on God's Perspective (BT vol. 5)

John 15:7 (NIV)

7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you...

*God wants to give us the desires of our heart (also see Psalm 37:4). However, notice that He must always come first in the process, and we must remain in His will as indicated by His word. He wants us to focus on Him first, and the rest will be added when we ask Him (Matt. 6:33). Ever wonder why something isn't coming to pass? It could be the level of perspective that we place on our desire vs where this fits in with God, and where God fits in with this idea. As a dear friend brought to my attention, I need to review my career desire and put it in perspective...For example, if God is constantly viewed as the supplier, the governor of the career choice, and if the path for this is in line and placed in the right perspective (always beneath God and in line with His will), then me asking for that once those things line up has no choice but to come to pass. Now, think about what you are believing God for or asking Him about. What order does that REALLY come in your life? What does the word say about it? Better yet, what has He said you need to do, prepare, focus on, or go through to get there? Most importantly, what is your motive for asking and how does it benefit God's will? It is quite interesting when you think about it. It's easy for selfishness to creep in, for reasons to be shallow, or lack of preparation or missing the mark to occur. We all have been there, but once you put things into perspective think about how easy the process will be to accept once God is ALWAYS the main focus.

Bodily Functions (BT. vol. 4)

1 Peter 3:8-9 (NIV)

Suffering for Doing Good

8 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

*It is popular in today's society to be known as being independent: Someone who is not reliant upon another individual for any means necessary for life. However, that is one of the sneakest, yet greatest tricks of ths devil. God made us interdependent upon one another. That is why blessings are connected to walking in love, how you treat people, and your capability to think beyond yourself in order to be used as God's vessel to help someone else.

Ever wonder why you have longings for connections be it companionship, friendship, or even the desire to bond with people on the job or at church? That would be that interdependent characteristic that God placed within your heart to reach out to people. The more open you are to being connected to God's people, as He guides you, the more it not only helps others but assists your growth and needs as well (2 Cor. 1:6). We are all one body (1 Cor. 12:12), that is suppose to be joined together with love to function properly and grow together (Ephesians 4:16). Therefore, no man is an island no matter how badly you would like to be, especially if you encounter a hateful individual. They are considered an out of order part of the body that needs our love in order to take their place as a functioning organ, which is why loving on and ministering to people is a must. God wants to see us all function properly, live out our purpose fully, and receive all He has for us on Earth and receive rewards in Heaven. However, you will not fully be able to excel in these areas into you realize how much your success depends on how you respond to and connect yourself with others. This not only includes how you treat strangers, but how you respond to the lovely indivuduals in the body of Christ.It's never all about you, but how we can all work together to thrive for God. We are different for a reason, and it is those differences that help make up the different elements of the body in order for it to function properly.