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Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Fearlessly Inclined to Believe and Receive

Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)
Don't fear, because I am with you; don't be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will surely help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand.

*We have all run into times when we have been in fear, skeptical, doubtful, or just down right in disbelief. All of this is attached to fear. Sure, some people would like to believe in the possibilities of God or even in His existence, but are too afraid to let go of what they know or see to truly embrace what they claim to believe. I know because I've heard it and have been there...It's easy to become fearful, but growth is in the strength of holding on and proclaiming God's promises. God has the capability to help us through anything if we are willing to let Him in fully...That is how uou walk in the foolness of God. He has the answer if we are willing to receive it, yet fear can overshadow our thoughts and consume us with concern. This same fear is meant to distract you from remembering His promises, and what He has done for you over and over again. Now imagine His capabilities if we could fully learn to trust and live for Him. I challenge you today to look for an opportunity to shine for God by helping someone remove the darkness developed from fear. You may find that you learn what's eating you during the process....There is no power in fear, but power is in God and His capability to strengthen and deliver.

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Freedom From Your Free Will

Galatians 5:13-14 (CEB)
You were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only don't let this freedom be an opportunity to indulge your selfish impulses, but serve each other through love. All the Law has been fulfilled in a single statement: Love your neighbor as yourself.

*We wake up  daily with the freedom to choose whatever we desire to do. God gave us ths ability to make our own choices, regardless to whether or not it lines up with the word. However, we have to ask ourselves if we want to suffer with just settling for God's permissible will or living through the perfect will. It's easy to settle, live a double life, accept your choices over His best, and find a quick solution out of selfishness. However, it can be trying but worth the wait to receive things or a person that is tailored to you; walk in love and think outside yourself to sacrifice for someone else; and submit completely to His will without yielding to temptations. Notice that one path helps you grow and move forward in life while the other allows complacency and a stationary lifestyle. Don't be so caught up in your own freedom to do what you please, and end up missing out on His ability to free you from your current situation.

Monday, July 28, 2014

Grow with One Another

Ephesians 1:18 (NIV)

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people...

*This week, I pray that we all truly develop an understanding of why we have been placed on Earth; the importance of our calling vs just going through life; and that we no longer embrace only what we've come to know, but be willing to receive and grow in what God has promised. We settle because we are afraid of being disappointed; we give up because we don't understand how precious we are to God and His plan; and we become emotional because we haven't truly cast our cares on God. Let's help each other grow and find balance according to the will of God because we are the body of Christ and cannot function without one another; we all have strengths and functions that can help one another; and it is meant for iron to sharpen iron...not allow it to become dull and useless. We are human and capable of mistakes, but we are also meant to bounce back in those areas by loving one another.

Friday, July 25, 2014

The Golden Rule

Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

*In order to understand and properly love on those who aren't saved, you must understand the heart of those who are born again... Those who actually made the choice to come to God despite their flaws.  Work on understanding how to uplift and assist those within the body of Christ in order to grow together. If people see unity, love, and how we should be assisting each other in prosperity within the body, then it will cause those out of fellowship to desire God. We are often harder on those within the body of Christ, despite the fact they are still growing, but passive with those who outright deny and disrespect God. Love and truth should be displayed to both parties as a way of persuasion and edification for all people. We are all created in God's image and if you learn to see people in that light, you will know how to treat them right.

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Healing in Confessing

James 5:16 NIV

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

*There are so many people who continue to live in pain from the past, habits of the old man, fear from what they have previously experienced, or shame from mistakes committed. It is our responsibility to provide love towards each other in order to help people overcome. Yes, God said we are suppose to be a new creature in Christ once we are saved (2 Corinthians 5:17), but the process of renewing the mind is a DAILY task, and God never intended for you to go through that process completely by being alone. Think about it: There are some of us who are stronger in areas then areas, and have overcome and are heading to the next phase of growth and grace. Yet, what good is that strength if you don't use it to strengthen someone else? What good is your testimony if you aren't open to understanding someone who is going through the exactly same thing, and if you aren't willing to walk in love with your guidance? Even more so, what good is your guidance and attitude of "been there, done that" if your goal is to chastise your brothers and sisters rather then be the vessel that leads them to God's healing? This is why people stay in the world, sit in church with issues, or hide their feelings and continue to suffer. Let's find love in understanding, healing in confession, the will to be honest with each other on what you are going through, and be in expectation of God's healing as we join our faith together to overcome. It's about more then just you...It's about the will of God.

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

What is Your Motivation?

Matthew 6:2-4 (NIV)

2 So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

*When we do things, we need to examine the motive behind it: Are you doing it to be seen, be different, to get things, because you feel like you should? OR, are you doing things according to God's will, in order to be obedient, and because you love Him? In today's society, we announce every little thing we do, experience, or feel on social media. People have their own fictitious world created to pretend, show off, or gain attention from others. Yet, none of it may be who you truly are or what is actually happening in your life. Some are even in competition with each other, which is unnecessary and adding strain to yourself. At the end of the day, God knows why you do things and who it is for...So, are you going to be real with Him and revamp your ways for His pleasure? OR, do you plan to keep putting up a front? It's one thing to try and fall short, but it's another to show out and not have an interest in practicing what you preach. Be bold for God, but bc it is for Him...not for the attention of others.

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Living with a Purpose

2 Corinthians 1:21-22 (NIV)

21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, 22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

*No matter what you are involved in, what you may have done in the past, or no matter how independent u may feel, u still belong to God. He is calling u every minute of the day, and is asking you to be saved, seriously rededicate your life to Him, grow in Him, build a relationship with Him, and include Him in your decision making. I know it becomes hard, tempting to step outside of the guidelines, or perhaps you are unsure if you can completely dedicate yourself. However, God is not looking for perfection...He is looking for diligence and loyalty. He even wants to help you with things you struggle with daily. Trust me, WE ALL have things to work on. However, God can assist if you open up and truly try Him. There is no failure in trying...the failure is when you choose to assume and not completely let go and give it your best. Let Him do the rest....

Monday, July 21, 2014

Where is Your Focus?

Romans 8:5-6 (ESV)
5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.

*It's the beginning of the work week, and I'm sure some of you are thinking about your " to do" list, wondering why did the weekend have to end, or dreading the responsibilities to come. In going deeper, some of you may even feel caught in a cycle and wondering when will your change come? Perhaps you may even think you are on the right path, but yet you can't seem to receive whatever it is that you desire. In that instance, take the time to ask yourself, "What is my mind focused on?" Are you mainly focused on yourself or the things that concern God? Do you have issues with being truthful about your current situation and how your choices are impacting your life? Perhaps you may have envy, regret, disgruntle tendencies, or lack of Godly prioritizing in your heart that is serving as the very thing that is holding you back. Where is your focus today, and does it line up with what God wants you to focus on? The flesh finds many distractions, but the spirit is always looking for spiritual opportunities of improvement, growth, and the ability to find joy in any given situation. Revamp your focus in order to see things differently, and receive what you have been missing out on...

Saturday, July 19, 2014

Proverbs Motivation: Mouth Control

Proverbs 18:1-8 (ESV)
Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment. A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, 2 but only in expressing his opinion. When wickedness comes, contempt comes also, 3 and with dishonor comes disgrace. The words of a man's mouth are deep waters; 4 the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. It is not good to be partial to the wicked 5 or to deprive the righteous of justice. A fool's lips walk into a fight, 6 and his mouth invites a beating. A fool's mouth is his ruin, 7 and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels;
8 they go down into the inner parts of the body.

*Notice how God used eight verses to zone in on consequences and behaviors that are all developed from what comes out of your mouth, which first began in the development of your thoughts. Also notice how He concludes with depicting how meekness has more of an impact then being aggressive, abrasive, overpowering, or ignorant towards understanding the mentality of others. In the Bible, eight signifies a new beginning, and God wants us to divide and concur our old habits (as seven stands for completion, and the behaviors and consequences are depicted in verses 1-7). Yet, we should find a new beginning (referencing verse eight) once we agree to allow the Father to align our words, which begins with aligning our thoughts. What you say often coincides with what you are thinking. How is the reflection of your brain depicted through your tone and words? Better yet, how are your words and tone depicting how you represent God, and what you are truly believing and applying daily? No wonder so many have trouble communicating, or moving forward because their words and mindset don't align with where they are trying to get to... Don't allow this to be you...May the words of your mouth and the meditations of your heart be acceptable in God's sight.

Friday, July 18, 2014

You and Your Mouth

James 3:7-9 (NIV)

7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in Gods likeness.

*It's so easy to speak poorly about individuals, especially when they have done you wrong. It's as though humans are accustom to scrutinizing others, and placing people under a microscope to find something to scrutinize. It's even easier for some to utilize negative words against scenarios and discuss our flaws rather then embrace yourself and look for the positivity. Yes, we live in a negative world and sure people upset us. However, we must view people the way God sees them and realize their value and considers the fact that we are made in His image. We are also told that iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). However, how can you sharpen and shun at the same time? How can we confuse walking in love with cursing an individual? Call those things as they are not and learn to watch your mouth...You could be talking  yourself out of a blessings, acting rude toward someone u may need to use, or underestimating the power of God to manifest.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Verbal Lessons

Proverbs 15:28 (ESV)
The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer,but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.

*The cliche "think before you speak" is very accurate in this case. Sometimes we are so quick to speak with our emotions, have discussions based on what we have been through or experienced, or allow our tongues to dictate the final outcome before consulting with God on how to answer or thinking things through. Take the time to put a guard over your mouth, and ask the Father how to answer to any given situation. It doesn't necessarily have to be from a negative point either. If you are hesitant to speak words of love and security, then it is time to examine your heart; if you are being prompted to embrace, but can't let go of speaking on things of the past, it is time to examine the complacency of your mindset; and if you are having trouble speaking positively, it is time to reaffirm why you should be grateful. Watch your words, guard your mouth, and allow your heart and mind to receive ths wisdom of God...

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Appearance Can Beg the Differ

Proverbs 28:25 (NIV)

The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the LORD will prosper.

*Often, people fight against what God is trying to show or give to them without even realizing what they are doing. They find any way to be negative about the situation or individual, or embrace a level of skepticism and apprehension before being optimistic. If God is in it, all that He brings will be clearly noted that it is from Him. Any conflict that arises is the enemy trying to take it away from you. Don't allow the enemy to be victorious by influencing your mind. Sometimes the greatest blessings show up in the oddest packages, but you have to be willing to listen to God on whether this is your special delivery or if you should return to sender. Our Father is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33), but He doesn't leave the window of opportunity open for long either. Embrace your moment of peace, seize your desire, have an open mind towards differences, and stop considering conflict before confirmation. Sometimes what we think is a diamond is only worth a dime, and what looks crazy is actually the craziest blessing you could ever encounter...Help us see your blessings for what they truly are Lord, and not what we want them to be...

Monday, July 14, 2014

Me, Myself, and I

Romans 13:11 (KJV)
And that, knowing the time, that now [it is] high time to awake out of sleep: for now [is] our salvation nearer than when we believed.

*Many people call themselves believers, but rarely take heed to the power and capabilities of what that title truly means. They are sleeping on their capabilities and daily favor wiyh possibility...We hold the ability to impact the world on a daily basis, to look beyond ourselves and people who make up our own little world, and see life for more then just the daily activities we are use to partaking in....There are so many people who naturally wake up in the morning dreading the day, frustrated because someone didn't give them their way, or are naturally consumed with themselves and their plans. However, life is about more then you, yourself, and your world..There are people reaching out, and waiting to be impacted daily; souls that need saving, and lives awaiting the influence of Godly change that lives in you; or even just people outside yourself that need your compassion or just your respect that they have feelings and a life too. It is amazing how we are consumed with ourselves, how we are so quick to have an attitude, or willing to provide an unnecessary opinion or take action about things that do not matter....YET, rarely or never consult God as to what to say or how to move forward. Yes, we are human, make mistakes, have needs, and desire attention. However, imagine if you were capable of finding the balance of giving others attention just as much as you give yourself. Of course be led by God in these efforts because we need balance. (I for one have found myself being overly utilized, and have needed to take a step back.) However, when God sees that you are consumed with yourself or what you can get out of others, (be it bc of greed or bc you feel like they owe you something), that is a major problem. Let's take the time to look beyond ourselves this week, and not just see it your way...See things the way God wants you to view it/him/her. We are living in the last days...Taking action and being selfless with balance is needed more then you know. Learn to understand just as much as you desire...

Saturday, July 12, 2014

Individuality in the Body

1 Peter 2:15 (KJV) - For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men...

*Many people believe that the kindness of God no longer exists in man, that everyone is selfish, or out to take advantage. There are others who also believe that a kind person is stupid, clueless, or has to do anything because they are Christian. This IS NOT SO...there are people who still can operate in common sense to go along with discernment;individuals do not have to put up with or take anything even if they are nice; and you can still exercise kindness and cast down things at the same time. Your ability to operate under God's authority while exuding love is designed to silence the ignorance of men and women who use worldly classifications, and believe that things only mean one thing or can occur one way. By the same token, it is also designed to help self righteous Christians broaden their minds, and add variety to show how God thinks and reacts. Remember, we are all different yet created in His image. However, that image is made up of much variety in the body of Christ. Therefore, let your light shine to silence ignorance of statistics or unproven no how, but operate in accordance to who God called you to be...

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Growing Pains

2 Corinthians 7:1 (NIV)

7Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

*Look at your life and exam how God has blessed...Now, think about how much greater those blessings can be if we would walk in the fullness of the wonders of His love. Sometimes we don't experience or receive what we desire because we have to be shaped and molded for the next level, while other times it is because we choose to stifle our own growth process. We let a "little but of sin" cause us to miss out on a lot because we refuse to fully dedicate ourselves to Him. I know most people see nothing wrong with doing things in moderation, but think about it this way: How much faster would you receive your desired results if you actually took the time to clean up your act, and truly put effort in to fully serving Him? Let's work on being motivated to clean up our acts...Out with old and in with new lifestyle of Godly choices. You know when something isn't right just as well as how you know to do the right thing to obtain results. Is a little but of sin really worth stunting your growth?

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

The Pleasure of Peace

Proverbs 16:7 NIV

7 When the LORD takes pleasure in anyones way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.

*If we are focused on God and constantly seek Him, peace has no choice but to follow us. God honors your ways, and clears our paths. Even your enemies are drawn to the light of God that is growing in you. If the favor of the Lord is upon you, and u delight yourself in His ways, that peace that falls on you from obedience and guidance has the ability to transfer to others as well. Take it a step further by exuding peaceful responses and reactions, and watch how the boomerang effect causes the same element to come back to you. Whatever you sow is what you will reap (Galatians 6:9); therefore, delight yourself in God in order to obtain the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4) while He keeps you in perfect peace no matter who or what you face (Isaiah 26:3). Let's lift each other in prayer regarding the receipt of that peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7).

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Our Primary Source

Romans 15:13 KJV

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing ,that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

*Our primary source for hope, edification of our faith and the ability to receive peace is with us all the time. Yet, people will often forget to use Him. God has the power to help you heal, move forward, forgive, forget, or trust again. However, we must remember to utilize Him. Many people automatically try do rely on their own strength, request to be given some space, or "stay in their feelings." You may think you are helping yourself, but you are actually prolonging the situation and your ability to heal faster. The longer you take the slower the healing process will be, and you may find that you miss out on other things. Don't become solely caught up in your own methods or the opinions of others on how to handle things. Ask God to restore your peace, fill you with hope, and enhance your joy in order to give you a brighter outlook on your situation and life.

Monday, July 7, 2014

New Horizons

Psalm 51:10 ESV
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.

*God is waiting for the opportunity to give us new experiences, new beginnings, and things we have never encountered; however, we must clear our minds from the things we are use to and what we normally would assume in order to embrace something new. It's so easy to refer back to an old experience, and ex, old friends, or any type of connection that makes us feel comfortable because of it's familiarity. However, God often wants to remove those thoughts of complacency if we are willing to be open to new things. Ask God to create a new mindset and heart within you in order to accept the possibility of change, His desire to rearrange, and the opportunity to help your spirit grasp the concept of new domains and people that are waiting on your connection if you're willing to follow proper direction. Anything is possible if we alleviate ourselves of what we know, be willing to open ourselves up to grow, and take on opportunities to go to uncharted territories that we've always imagined. Change is good if you are honest with yourself, and are willing to explore the many possibilities on the horizon...We've only just begun to hit the tip of the iceberg. Don't stop now...

Saturday, July 5, 2014

Hearts Clear

Proverbs 16:23 (KJV)
The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

*Whatever we choose to discuss or say is often a reflection of.where our hearts lie. For instance if you are a negative person, negativity will flow from your mouth. If you gossip, are hurt, want others to see it your way, or like to complain it won't be long before what is within you and what you believe about a person or circumstance will come out. Some people may be good at hiding who they truly are, but the heart never lies. The beliefs of the heart will eventually be displayed through actions or verbal behavior. Therefore, if you wonder why people do not want to be bothered with you or why aren't you moving in the right direction, ask God where is your heart and think on what has your mouth been saying? Also know that God's love attracts people for those who may be experiencing gravitation. Not only do your words and feelings impact others, but the wellbeing of yourself as well. This is why it is important to spend time with God in order to renew your mind and heart, which will in turn align your words. Remember, blessings and curses (curse words included) can't come out of the mouth without conflict (James 3:10); gossip and talking badly about someone to change the mindset of others should be null and voided (Ephesians 4:29); and love should prevail. Let's help each other grow stronger in this area.

Friday, July 4, 2014

What Does Independence Mean?

John 7:17 ESV

If anyone's will is to do God's will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority.

*Today marks our country's freedom and independence. The day when our nation separated itself, and stood on its own two feet. Guess who else gives us that opportunity? Our gracious Father in Heaven. He gives us free will, but the only difference is the fact that we never have independence. How is that? Well, in life you have basically two choices: 1. The choice to completely follow God's guidance, or 2.The choice to be vulnerable to the things of this world. The devil likes to disguise the latter of the two as independence. Sure, if you claim to make your own "luck," decide your own fate, or "do what you gotta do" you are making a choice. However, it is not one that necessarily illustrates independence. Instead, you have just decided to place your life into the hands of evil by removing God's protection through leaving His will, and accept what consequences come from that choice. This is also known as God's permissible will. You are always going to be a child of God, but since you chose to revoke your right to have access to His guidance, you are now open to the elements of going through unnecessary hardships or short-lived successes that you were never suppose to experience in the first place. So when you say you are independent today, truly sit back and think about what that means. Are you independent of the perfect will of God and all the grace and long term prosperity that comes with it, or are you permitting yourself to be used by the enemy to solely serve his agenda and purpose while reeking havoc upon your own wellbeing?

Independent Food 4 Thought

Since we are suppose to be celebrating independence on the 4th, let's celebrate our right to be who God has called us to be and not what society wants us to conform to or become...#FreeWill

Thursday, July 3, 2014

Proverbs Challenge

Hi all...join my friends and I as we revisit one of the greatest books of wisdom. There is still time to catch up!

Something New, Not Old

Isaiah 43:18-19 ESV

“Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

*Many people have a habit of taking their past into their current or future situations....You may always compare and contrast your current lifestyle to a past situation that caused suffering or challenges your way of thinking. What's even worse is if you try to inflict these thoughts on people who had nothing to do with your past and are ready to be a part of a new future with you. Yet sadly you are afraid to embrace  freedom from complacency, or you may be protecting your feelings because you are too busy living in the prison of past mistakes. When we decide or decided to FOR REAL turn our loves over to Christ, old things passed away and God gave you a clean slate. He even wants you to adopt a new mindset because you are no longer under the submission of the world's standards, but under His grace and guidance to a life where grace abounds towards you (2 Corinthians 9:8), and a life with a better and more expected ending (Jeremiah 29:11). Therefore stop holding back, stop trying to inflict your fears on others by disguising them as concerns, and embrace the good things God gives you rather then trying to find something wrong with it/him/her. In being transparent, I get it...I understand that new things make us nervous or it is easy to doubt rather then be optimistic. However let's pray for each other that we stay focused on the positive (Philippians 4:8) before we remember the negativity of our past, or the inflicting issues the world tries to bring. God wants to create a new circumstance even in an unattractive situation. Are you ready for something new?

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Maturity Check

1 Corinthians 14:20 (ESV)

20Brothers, do not be children in
your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature.

*Why is it that people are often mature in nature when it comes to plotting unethically thinking and doing, especially when it comes to their own circumstances, but still claim to be in the will of God and expect blessings from Him? Many can see the wrong in others, but have every excuse in the book as to why they do what they do, or how their behavior is excusable because they didn't have a choice. This is definitely called child-like behavior...Always quick to point out the faults of others, but never desiring to admit or own up to your own; continuously complacent with participating in bad behaviors or making poor choices, bet yet never bothering to view let alone try proper alternatives; lastly, making excuses as to why it is ok to stay in a mess, and being overly sensitive when God tries to guide. Yet, this individual is often quick to verbalize their opinion of others or circumstances. Can we take a moment to evaluate this type of mentality? Let's not be children in our thinking when it comes to speaking upon things unless you fully know the circumstance, and have been given permission by God  to be used as a vessel  to HELP the situation. Even more so, when it comes to ourselves, let's be more sensitive and maintain innocence in staying away from evil behavior, things that are not pleasing to God, and assist in loving and creating peace with each other rather then be definitive towards it. May our thinking mature, in order to develop the proper mindset, to be able to handle what you are seeking God for...After all, how can we be entrusted with greater if we are immature in our current circumstances?

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Cycles Solidify Growth

Hebrews 10:36 ESV

For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.

*Even though it is the devil who gives us trials, it is God who edifies us during these trying times to prepare us for the next level and provide endurance. As you grow deeper in your relationship with God, you may find that the enemy sends things to confuse or discourage you; however, never forget that behind every type of adversity is the forthcoming of a blessing...The blessing often corresponds with the adversity you are facing; therefore the greater the adversity, the bigger the blessing. Also be thankful during this time  and exercise your ability to ask God what you should be learning, and observe how you are being better equipped to handle your blessing. Look at it like this: Many followers of the devil obtain great things, but lose it all because they were never prepared, equipped, or edified with the proper endurance on how to conduct themselves at that level.On the other hand, believers may experience more at times, but if guided by God, suffer less upon being rewarded and maintain their enheritance that is created to receive longevity. These gifts and blessings are suppose to continuously grow and withstand the test of time REGARDLESS to what the enemy tries to throw at you. Remember, a quick fix or a simplistic road to success can be easily snatched away, especially if you don't understand what you have... However, the grace that covers you to endure and obtain greater with God lasts a lifetime. Don't settle for taking good things in spurts, but look for ways to continue success no matter what it takes because God is with you and you have the power to endure. Remember, God wants you to have health and prosperity as your soul prospers (3 John 2); therefore, growing pains may occur, but beauty behind maturing will last a lifetime.