Category: Growing In The Lord

God Speaks To Job Through James, Part 1.

On By SonjaIn Godly Living and Maturing, Growing In The Lord, Instruction on how to disciple others, Prayers About Increase/DecreaseLeave a comment

As we all know, great physical demands are placed on the lives of our young people and a number of extra curricular activities are vying for their attention. Consequently, devoting time to study their Sunday School lessons is a low priority on their agendas. Once a student told me that because I was so well prepared as the teacher, she did not feel she had to study. This disturbed me greatly because I knew what the Bible said about studying. I also knew what it said about teaching.

So, one Sunday I asked the class to take a moment and think about how they handle and resolve life’s challenges. After a few moments of contemplating, I asked if anyone wanted to share their most debilitating and stressful situation. What I learned from this exercise was that no student’s dilemma was resolved from hearing a word from the Holy Spirit.

So, now, I had each student’s undivided attention. And because I had altered my lesson plan, I told them the story of Job’s dilemma through the scriptures as recorded by the Apostle James. Which opened the students eyes to just how much guidance a person can receive from delving into the Holy Scriptures.

My BRETHREN, COUNT IT ALL JOY WHEN YOU FALL INTO VARIOUS TRIALS. James 1:2

(Job, I know you are not feeling well, but, do you recall when Eliphaz said…”Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects; therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty. Job 5:17

KNOWING THAT THE TESTING OF YOUR FAITH PRODUCES PATIENCE. James 1:3

[Well, Eliphaz said that after your calamity came upon you, you declared that you wished you were dead, for you said,]…There the wicked cease from troubling, and there the weary are at rest. Job 3:17

BUT LET PATIENCE HAVE ITS PERFECT WORK, THAT YOU MAY BE PERFECT AND COMPLETE, LACKING NOTHING. James 1:4

[But from the very beginning, Job, you kept declaring how righteous you were and that there was no advantage to be gained if you were cleansed from your sin.] Job 35:3

[I was right there when you said]..Though he slay me, yet will I trust him. Even so, I will defend my own ways, before him. Job 13:15

IF ANY OF YOU LACK WISDOM, LET HIM ASK OF GOD, WHO GIVES TO ALL LIBERALLY AND WITHOUT REPROACH, AND IT WILL BE GIVEN TO HIM. James 1:5

[Honestly, Job, you should not have added that last part about maintaining your own ways, for you have spoken] …without knowledge, and your words were without knowledge, and wisdom. Job 34:35

BUT LET HIM ASK IN FAITH, WITH NO DOUBTING, FOR HE WHOM DOUBTS IS LIKE A WAVE OF THE SEA DRIVEN AND TOSSED BY THE WIND. James 1:6

[Our true friend Elihu suggested the manner in which you should have prayed, remember]…For has anyone said to God, ‘I have borne chastening; I will offend no more; teach me what I do not see;’ Job 35:31, 32a

BLESSED IS THE MAN WHO ENDURES TEMPTATION; FOR WHEN HE HAS BEEN APPROVED, HE WILL RECEIVE THE CROWN OF LIFE WHICH THE LORD HAS PROMISED TO THOSE WHO LOVE HIM. James 1:12

[Job, stop that]…Do not desire the night. For people that are in darkness are cut off.l Shhhh]…Lest He take you away with one blow. [Then a Great Ransom (Jesus) cannot deliver you and you will not receive the crown of life.] Job 36:20, 18

SO THEN, MY BELOVED BRETHREN, LET EVERY MAN BE SWIFT TO HEAR, SLOW TO SPEAK, SLOW TO WRATH; James 1:19

[Oh, good, Job, You have calmed down. You have repented to God by declaring,]…Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer you? I lay my hand over my mouth. Job 40:4

THEREFORE LAY ASIDE ALL FILTHINESS AND OVERFLOW OF WICKEDNESS, AND RECEIVE WITH MEEKNESS THE IMPLANTED WORD, WHICH IS ABLE TO SAVE YOUR SOULS. James 1:21

Then Job answered the Lord and said: I know that you can do everything, and that no purpose of yours can be withheld from you. Job 42:1, 2

TO BE CONTINUED……

Click: http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Divulged His Reason Why He Allowed Martha’s Family Story To Be Told

On By SonjaIn Bible Trivia, Growing In The LordLeave a comment

It happened suddenly. Yes, it was like a bolt of lightning. Please allow me to digress a little to relate to you my story. It happened one Wednesday evening while meditating on what ‘life experience’ subject to present to the Senior Members Organization Ministry at my church. You see, every 4th Thursday of each month, the Senior’s President had appointed me the task to lead an informal ‘chit-chat’ with the members entitled, “Let’s Talk!”

Naturally, I put on my thinking cap…glanced at my book shelf, leafed through a few AARP magazines when out of no where, lightning struck.You see, I received a ‘revelation’ that shook me to my core. I felt fundamentally challenged and intimidated.

That particular mourning, during my preparation of this assignment, the Holy Spirit placed on my heart to challenge the group with the following question…”Why do you believe God allowed the Holy Spirit to record references/events of the family of Martha, Mary and Lazarus to be recorded in biblical scriptures more than 3 times?”

Free ai generated woman studying illustration

Praise God! Here are those Scriptures: Luke 10:38-42; John 11:1-45; John 12:1-3

Since Martha was the older sibling of both her sister and brother, she displayed a 'take charge' nature and personality concerning everything.  And like today, many older brothers and sisters in your families have an irritating tendency to do the same.
   
Back in Jesus' day, Hebrew families welcomed into their homes total strangers for lodging and nourishments.  And as the scriptures record, Mary, the younger sibling, seemed derelict in her duties to support her older sister when highly important people came calling, such as Jesus and His disciples.  Martha always exhibited her perfect hospitable manners.  For in those days, it was considered shameful to turn away anyone from your door.

 Martha's demeanor as the older sibling was to 'take charge' of the situation.  Jesus was having none of that.  Once, when Martha approached Jesus and asked Him to admonish her sister, Mary, to accompany her in the preparation of food for everyone.  Jesus replied, Martha, you are over zealous for the wrong thing.  Your desire is to make sure everybody does the right thing and certainly not to embarrass the family.  Your sister, Mary, wants to hear My progress report of how "The Way" is progressing.

Have you or someone you know acted in a Martha-take-charge manner.  Can you, yourself, identify with a "Martha" disposition.  Can you agree that Mary's preference to kneel at the feet of Jesus and listen to Him is always the perfect position to be in.  According to Scripture, Jesus visited this family's home or at least the city of this family quit often.  But Martha's priorities in life caused her to miss valuable messages Jesus brought her way.  It would have been better for Martha if she had mimicked the actions of her baby sister.

Another incident that scripture recalls about the busyness personality of Martha was when her brother Lazarus died.  It was during that time that Martha sent for Jesus.  However, Jesus delayed his coming.   Martha could hardly restrain herself when she heard Jesus was finally coming.  When Jesus arrived at the house, Martha berated Him and expressed her inner conflict of her disappointment in Jesus' slothfulness in His coming.  Martha indicated to Jesus, had He come when she first asked Him to come, Martha was sure her brother would not have died.  Jesus informed Martha that she should have known that He was the Ruler over Death and Life!

Actually, Martha's personality and business had prevented her from learning about Jesus' super natural powers.  (She had been out in her back yard chasing chickens to catch and fry for Jesus' supper.)
Engaged in everything but Godly Living

Wake up world. It’s Kingdom building time.

Click: http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me! 

God’s Blessing On Zambia, South Africa

On By SonjaIn Growing In The Lord, How To Witness To Others, Prayers About God and Me, Prayers On How To Pray For Other, Tools For MissionariesLeave a comment

In July 2002, I traveled to Lusaka, Zambia, South Africa on a seventeen-day mission trip with 38 other missionaries affiliated with American Baptist Churches of the South (ABCOTS). Upon arrival to the continent, we divided up into teams and visited several towns and villages that have covenant agreements with our ABCOTS association. In these communities we taught Bible classes, preached sermons, visited orphanages and schools and shared basic family life skills with the people.

Our mode of transportation throughout the continent was by jitneys, tour buses and small planes. The countryside was beautiful and we saw our share of wild animals. Towards the end of our trip, we traveled to Zimbabwe and visited the Victory Falls. We also went on an early mourning safari in Sun City just outside of Johannesburg. We visited some historical sites in Cape Town, South Africa before flying back to the United States.

Prior to leaving on this mission trip I had fasted and prayed. I asked God to go before us and give us safe passage to all those foreign places we would be visiting. I had also prayed that we would be a blessing to the many strangers and officials we would come in contact with at airports and embassies as well as the awaiting congregations at our final destination.

It was not until I returned to the United States that I received confirmation that God had indeed answered my prayer and had been our Guide for this trip. One evening, while reading the Book of Isaiah, the words in Chapter forty-four began to transform into a pictorial expose’ of the entire trip to Zambia. The actual names of the towns and villages and many names of the churches we visited mysteriously appeared on the Bible pages in the form of scriptures instead of the original words written by Isaiah.

Instinctively, I knew that the Holy Spirit wanted to commune with me and give me a Word concerning South Africa. I grabbed my pen and paper and began to write the litany, “God’s Blessing on Zambia.”

(An Adaptation of Isaiah 44:1-5)

“Yet hear me now, O Missionaries to Zambia, My servants, and American Baptist Churches of the South whom I have chosen. Thus says the Lord who made you and formed you from the womb, who will help you while on your journey:

“Fear not, O missionaries My servants; and you, Eleazar, whom I have chosen as their guide. For I will pour water on the House of Lusaka who is thirsty, and floods on the dry ground of compounds in Zambia;

I will pour My Spirit on all those who journeyed to Africa and My blessing on Eleazar’s dream for the Zambian people; New churches will spring up among the grass huts like willows by the watercourses.’

Hope International Church of Lusaka will say, ‘I am the Lord’s; Bethel Church of Kafue will call himself by the Name of Jacob; Soweto Baptist Church will write with his hand, “The Lord’s” and Riverside Baptist Church of Chingola will name himself by the name of Israel.

(This 2002 prophecy is certain to come to pass, saith the Lord.)

(Anyone can read this post. Subscribers receive it by email.)

Click: http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me! 

Share

God Provides Wisdom On How To Grow Spiritually

On By SonjaIn Godly Living and Maturing, Growing In The Lord, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Enroll in a Bible Study Christian Group

But grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory now and forever.” Amen. (*)

During the summer of 1985, I embarked upon a quest that solidly placed my feet on a path of self improvement. I was forty-five years old, and according to my standards was far from the apex of accomplishments to meet the goals I had set for myself.

The list on my refrigerator door outlining the “One Hundred Steps To Financial Freedom” still had more than two-thirds of the steps yet to be taken. At this rate, I would need two life times to attain success. So, I decided to initiate an acceleration program. This included purchasing more self-improvement books and tapes; joining a multi-level marketing enterprise that hawked vitamin supplements and financial freedom; and signing up to attend Bible study classes and organizing other women initiative groups. I was definitely on a serious mission to reinvent myself.

Woefully, this bubble of energy lasted about eighteen months. The reason being, I was out of time, money and energy with little or no change in my lifestyle. Then something happened.

I was asked to lead a seminar for a woman’s church conference. The topic was, “How to successfully defuse conflict between a woman’s Christian walk and her role in the secular world.” You see, my peers had been watching me. To the outside world I appeared to be a success and I had it all. They now wanted me to share my life experiences with others.

I flattered myself and remember saying something like, “You have it all together in the secular world, honey, just search the scriptures and find some female biblical characters to relate to and present that to the ladies.” That remark did not work. The conference group still insisted I be the speaker.

I started praying this selfish foolish prayer, but God had other plans. The more I begged him for revelations, the more he said for me to teach the ladies his way or not at all. Writer’s block stayed with me until one evening during my preparation I became exhausted. I humbled myself before God and stubbornly asked him how could I become a super woman in him. He replied, only with my help, my child, only with my help. The litany, “God’s Super Women” evolved.

NOTE (*) 2 Peter 3:18

“GOD’S SUPER WOMAN”
OH LORD, HOW CAN I BECOME A SUPER WOMAN IN THE FAMILY OF GOD?If you heed the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe them, I will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above and not beneath.
Deuteronomy 28:13b – 13a
BUT LORD, I STILL DON’T UNDERSTAND. FOR EVEN THOUGH I STUDY YOUR WORD MY HEART IS HEAVY MORE OFTEN THAN GLAD.Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
3 John 1:2
TELL ME, MASTER, HOW CAN MY SOUL PROSPER?My child, it is written that the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, my soul has no pleasure in her.
Hebrews 10:38
HOLY FATHER, DO YOU MEAN THAT I AM PREVENTING MYSELF FROM DEVELOPING INTO A SUPER WOMAN IN YOU BECAUSE MY FAITH IS WEAK?Consider Abraham. He believed in me and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Therefore know that only those who are of faith are daughters of Abraham.
Galatians 3:6, 7
THEN ACCORDING TO YOUR WORD, DEAR JESUS, IF I INCREASE MY FAITH IN YOU, YOU WILL BLESS ME AND MAKE ME A SUPER WOMAN?
Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you.
Hebrews 6:14
OH, JESUS, YOU ARE SO GOOD AND SO KIND. AND I PROMISE TO INCREASE MY FAITH AND DEPEND SOLELY UPON YOU IN EVERYTHING I DO.
Just remember, faith comes not by your own might, but by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10:17
SO THAT I MIGHT UNDERSTAND COMPLETELY, MY LORD, LET ME REPEAT WHAT YOU SAID. IN ORDER FOR ME TO BECOME A SUPER WOMAN IN YOUR HOUSE, I MUST LISTEN AND OBEY YOUR COMMANDMENTS AND YOU WILL MAKE ME THE HEAD AND NOT THE TAIL.

YOU ALSO DESIRE THAT I NOT ONLY BECOME A PROSPEROUS WOMAN, BUT THAT MY SOUL BE ENRICHED AS WELL. AND THE BLESSING IS THAT ALL OF THIS CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED JUST BY INCREASING MY FAITH IN YOU.		That’s right, daughter. And you should also remember that without faith it is impossible to please me.
Hebrews 11:6
I KNOW WHAT FAITH IS, LORD. IT IS LIKE HOPING AGAINST HOPE THAT AN INCURABLE SITUATION WILL GET BETTER EVEN THOUGH YOU DO NOT KNOW HOW.I say it a little differently…Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:1
THANK YOU, LORD, FOR THIS VISIT AND I AM DETERMINED TO PUT MY FAITH INTO PRACTICE AND NOT ALLOW SATAN TO ROB ME OF MY SUPERIORITY IN YOU.Well said, my beloved, for the thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
John 10:10

Click: http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Provided The Cornerstone

On By SonjaIn Godly Living and Maturing, Growing In The Lord, Mankind's Relationship With God, UncategorizedLeave a comment

“Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it…Psalm 127:1a

‘The stone which the builders rejected…Psalm 118:2″

“Therefore thus says the Lord: “Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, A tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation;…Isaiah 28:16

“HELLO WORLD! CAN WE TALK?”

Yes, I’m addressing you, my dear readers, because this blog is very special to me. Why? Because I am very serious about cultivating and expanding my time to converse with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

His presence is so sweet and His voice so soothing and His advice so penetrating that I just cannot get enough. Once, when in prayerful discussions with Him, I distinctly heard the Holy Spirit say: “For where two or three have gathered together in My Name, I am there in their midst.” (Matthew 18:20). Needless to say, I took that divine message to heart and have throughout my walk with the Lord attempted to surround myself with like-minded believers who relishes* in the exploring of the Holy Scriptures.*

So as not to be presumptuous and to waste your time, this blog post is designed for those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. Our time together will be focused on identifying and developing our inner man’s or inner women’s spiritual life; that is eternal life. For 1st John 5:12 says, “He who has the Son has life: He who has not the Son of God does not have life.”

church attendance couple happy chart

A study released by the Institute of Family Studies (IFS) found that couples who regularly go to church together report higher levels of happiness than those who don’t. More than 3 in 4 regular church-attending couples (78 percent) say they are “very happy” or “extremely happy” in their relationship.

Now if you will permit me, I would like to share with you a synopsis of the ongoing conversations I have had with our Maker concerning how His people can continue to build up their spiritual houses; fortify their vital signs; and identify components that can help to make up a healthy and vital spiritual life support system.

“All Scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correction and training in righteousness, so that the man (or woman) of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2nd Tim. 3:16-17

One of the main courses of study for a Christian believer is their Bible. This is the building license/stone you need to begin construction. The first part of the Bible is the Law and the Prophets and the History books. God wants us to diligently study that portion of His Word as well as the New Testament, so as not to make the same mistakes as our forefathers. The summation of the History books is found in the New Testament, 1st Corinthians 10. What one should glean from these passages are that we need the protection and guidance of God; deliverance from our past sinful lives; acknowledgment of a spiritual Head over our lives (Jesus); to be constantly fed and provided for; and lastly, to associate with family and friends, especially those of the household of faith.

News flash! Did you know that to do anything on a repetitive basis is habit forming? Therefore, the application of what we read, as well as other avenues of experiences, should fortify and/or cause lifestyle changes within us as we learn to rightly divide the Word of Truth. So, without a doubt, the study of both ancient and modern Christianity is a vital component to keep our spiritual life vibrant and healthy.

Now, let’s talk about our minds. Let’s declare every day that we will show love to somebody, speak and think only positives and words. Eventually the mind, because it is constantly being fed positive stimuli, will produce vitality in the inner man or woman and the outer man will begin to disappear. (See Phil. 4:8 (New Testament

Finally, dear readers, in our time together, let’s also reflect. Let’s look at things from God’s perspective. Just as I did when the Holy Spirit directed my attention to Matthew 18:20. The moment God is in the equation you must look inward at yourself. So, overall, when you study to show yourself approved, you should often stop to ponder over the slightest details which will put you in a state of humility. You will come to hear and see things in a new light. Remember, the opposite of humility is arrogance! And we don’t want that beast to raise its ugly head, now do we? Yes, the discipline of study that renews the mind, soul and body is directly dependent upon humility. And that’s got to be a good, vital, and healthy spiritual life support system component.

Some additional components that I have learned in my conversations with God on this subject are that it is alright to engage in various avenues of learning. For theChristian believer feasting on ‘meat’ rather than ‘milk’, don’t be afraid to pick up several Bible commentaries, dictionaries, and other translations of God’s Word. Compile a collection of biographies and other thought provoking books like Shakespeare, Plato, modern founders of Christian sects. Go hiking and explore God’s creation and creatures. Attend lectures and join book clubs. Listen to the voices of birds and frogs. Stop to smell the roses. Ask God is there a message in the face of your pet dog as he wags its tail and greets you at the door when you are late coming home. Practice living for God over and over again. Concentrate on what you are learning. Become a practitioner of prayer. Get an understanding about the matter. And finally, tell somebody how you have been changed. Become a Star Witness to the Plaintive AND the Defendant.

NOTE: (*) Relishes: A person who deeply relishes the scriptures is typically described as a devout scholar, a spiritual contemplative, or simply a biblical enthusiast. They view reading and meditating on sacred texts as a profound joy rather than a chore. [1]

Click: http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Has Always Dealt With Me Succinctly

On By SonjaIn Godly Living and Maturing, Growing In The Lord, Prayers For Life Changes, UncategorizedLeave a comment

There is no need for my readers to rush to retrieve there dictionaries. I have already done it for you. That’s right! Because just when I set aside time this week to collect my thoughts and write my weekly blog, the Holy Spirit whispered in my heart…I got this, Sister girl. The Lord of lords desires that you renew your initial solemn prayers to Him at the beginning steps of your journey with Him.

So, naturally, I went to my archives and searched through my historical records until I found two ‘dog-eared’, vintaged yellow copies of personal prayers I had written to God. I would like to share them with you as well as to renew them with my Lord and Savior.

According to Google…

To be succinct means to express ideas clearly and concisely, using exactly as many words as needed to make your point. A succinct message eliminates all unnecessary fluff and verbosity while keeping all essential information.
“My Prayer…For Myself…For my ‘calling’ to teach the Gospel”

1. To be approved by God
2. To be entrusted with the gospel.
3. To have my heart tested by God.
4. Not to seek praises from men.
5. Not to be afraid to share personal experiences as God has dealt with me.
6. To be an effective instrument whose teaching is anointed and causes the hearer to learn, understand and apply.

(circuit 1990)

“MY PLEDGE TO A HIGHER CALLING”
Dear God (My Holy Father):

I solemnly promise to focus my full attention and participation in training for the work of a Deaconess. During this workshop I will do the following:

1. Open my mind to God’s glorious majesty.
2. Pray honestly, asking the Holy Spirit for His guidance.
3. Let new ideas penetrate my being.
4. Participate enthusiastically with creative involvement.
5. Occupy my mind with the meaning and impact of my ministry
as a Deaconess on the lives of others.

Henceforth, I look forward to the blessed hope and the appearance of the glory of our great God and Savior. Amen.

(circuit 1994)

My Christian journey has definitely been a highly blessed and glorified one. My Precious Lord has blessed me by opening His expansive world to little ole me and introducing me to his earthly world-wide kingdom. The Holy Spirit has also allowed me to come to know the Son in a more intimate way. What a mighty God we serve!!

May the Lord continue to richly bless and keep you and your loved ones as you faithfully serve, bless and give thanks to Him. Amen and Amen.

Click: http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God “Schooled” Me Concerning Life Eternal

On By SonjaIn Growing In The Lord, How To Witness To Others, Mankind's Relationship With God, Prayers About God and MeLeave a comment

Did you know that the Holy Spirit is our Master Teacher concerning life eternal. I recall learning an awesome lesson from the Master Teacher in 2004. My personal journal reminded me that on a Saturday night in February 2004, God allowed me to experience life eternal. I had fallen asleep after studying the Sunday School lesson I was scheduled to teach the following mourning. I taught a group of third graders at my church.

“For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush.” Luke 6:43-44

The Holy Spirit awakened me about 4:30 a.m. I knew it was Him. He instructed me to go get my book entitled Chicken Soup For The Christian Soul. In it I found a short story relevant to my Sunday School lesson. It was very appropriate for my third graders.

I said to myself, it would really be nice if I could find a short story directly related to the book of Luke. After leafing through the book, I found the perfect story and it referenced Luke 6:33, a section on giving. (The class could certainly under that as followers of Christ, they must always try to bear good deeds/fruit for Jesus.)

After I finished reading the story, I was smiling and thanking God for awakening me and putting the finishing touches on my Sunday School lesson. I said, oh, Lord, if I had my druthers, heaven would be one long eternal night instead of a place of eternal day. I made that comment because for me and most people I know, God engages us in the most revealing conversations at nighttme or at least in the early dawn while it is still dark outside.

Immediately, my Lord responded. “Sonja, My beloved,” He said, “turn to Revelations where I speak of the fact that heaven will have neither sun nor moon.

“The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine in it, for the Glory of God illuminated it. The Lamb is its light.” Rev. 21-23

“Don’t you see, my child?” “Heaven will have neither sun nor moon. There will be no concept of day or night there. I AM IT! When I awake you at night to speak to you I am treating you as I treat myself. I never sleep. So why should you?. I’ll tell you like I told Jeremiah, ‘Do you want to run with the horses?’ Well, I am the horses. Wake up! Allow me to turn your nights into days.”

“If you want to walk with Me, know that there are no inhibitions that hinder Me. No walls contain Me. No doors are shut against Me. No gulfs divide Me from anything. No restraints bind Me. No insults effect Me. No regiment of time constrains Me. But most of all; No weapon formed against Me shall prosper. I say to you, come to the realization of how awesome it is to be more than a conqueror. Come. I invite you to join Me and experience eternity.”

Click: http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Wants To Know Just How Are You Today?

On By SonjaIn Bible Trivia, Growing In The Lord, Prayers About God and Me, Prayers For New Beginnings2 Comments

Who knew? Did you? It doesn’t matter if you are sick, heavy laden, forgot to put a stamp on your letter or doubted God was able, He will always come through!

Most Bible readers are of the opinion that God’s Holy Word is alive and can take on various insights depending on who is reading it or what circumstances are occurring at that time. I, too, am of this persuasion and therefore find it beneficial to pray categorically to God about certain issues which I am wrestling with.

I generally incorporate metaphors into my prayers and recite my request by saying something like; Oh, Lord, please open up my heart and read me and uncover my emotions as I open up this Holy Bible and ingest Your word in an attempt to uncover its wisdom and strength which is necessary for me to live an upright and holy life.

If you have ever prayed a prayer similar to the one I have just described you understand how astonishing it can be when you realize that a scripture passage you have just finished reading suddenly transforms from the written word into a vivid television production. What was once black and white letters on a page is now a Technicolor Picasso. What was once prose being read by a divorcee has miraculously become an aria to the third degree and sung by the world famous Mrs. Leontyne Price.

So, the Father ask you once again………”How are you today?”……….pray to Jesus by His Title

What is Your Need What is Jesus’ title Scripture Reference

Person to stand with meADVOCATE1 JOHN 2:1
I’m a wreckCOVER me with a BOND OF PERFECTIONCOL. 3:11-12
Be more dependableAUTHOR AND FINISHER of my faithHEBREWS 12:1-2
I need foodLord give me that BREAD FROM HEAVENJOHN 6:32-33
A better lifeYou are the BREAD OF LIFEJOHN 6:35
I’m sad, depressedYou are the BRIGHTNESS OF GOD’S GLORYHEBREWS 1:3
GuidanceBe my CHIEF SHEPHERD1 PETER 5:4
Sympathy, comfortFather of mercies and GOD OF ALL COMFORT2 CORINTHIANS 1:3-4
Love my neighborLive in peace and the GOD OF LOVE AND PEACE2 CORINTHIANS 13:11
Patience and comfortGOD OF PATIENCE AND COMFORTROMANS 15:5

Click: http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Lovingly Sent Me To The Wood Shed

On By SonjaIn Godly Living and Maturing, Growing In The Lord, Mankind's Relationship With God2 Comments

You might want to ask me what do I mean by that title. Well, I guess you can call it ‘writer’s block’. For certainly, this week has been very difficult for me to put pen to paper and deliver to you my weekly blog.

But now that I have come to myself and humbly had a little talk with Jesus and also with the aid of the Holy Spirit, prayer and supplication, all is well.

The chastising message to me from on High was: You forgot to give thanks! So, written below is a brief synopsis of my predicament.

Earlier this week, I went into my office and prayerfully inquired of the Holy Spirit as to what uplifting subject I should blog about. Nothing was happening in my heart. A couple of days passed and still there was nothing typed on my WP blog page. Finally, I was led to rummage through my file cabinet drawers. After a short search, I retrieved a copy of a prayer I had written some years ago entitled, “A Revival Prayer for 9-16-03.”

Yes, as the title implies, the Baptist church that I was attending in 2003 had invited me to deliver the opening prayer for their particular 3-day revival. As I continued reviewing the 2003 prayer request letter, I saw where I had included a prayer request to God to place restrictions on an impending hurricane storm scheduled to hit the east coast causing severe destruction to life and property. (1)

Also included in that 2003 letter was a request for God to bless my new found friends in Zimbabwe, South Africa whom I met some years ago while on a missionary trip with Buckner International. (2)

Fast forward to now…2026! I still have a severe aching in my heart. WHY! It’s Friday and I still have writer’s block. I feel like I’m still in God’s wood shed! Why? A Still Small Voice whispered…”You failed to return to me and say, THANKS!”

Both Secular and Biblical advice say: Since God has responded favorably to both of your prayer requests, return to him and give thanks. First, seriously repent and receive confirmation that all is well with your soul. Also remember that a couple of weeks ago, World Vision officials came to your church and said that some disadvantaged children living in squalor in Zimbabwe needed American families to adopt/sponsor one African child. As a result, hundreds of families signed up and committed themselves for one year. PRAISE GOD!

A “Sin” Against God: In Christian theology, a lack of gratitude is viewed as a sin. Romans 1:21 in the Bible is often cited, which highlights that even though humanity knew God, “they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him”.

NOTES: (1) THANKS FOR REDIRECTING THE 2003 STORM CALLED ISABEL

(2) THANKS FOR FUNDING ZIMBABWE

Click:  http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Called His Son’s Name “Jesus”

On By SonjaIn Bible Trivia, God Father, Growing In The Lord, Mankind's Relationship With God, Prayers For Spiritual GrowthLeave a comment

What’s in a Name? Or perhaps the real question is why do we affix names to objects? Personally, I believe that since mankind is made in the image of God, we automatically take on similar traits and attributes of our Maker.

But, notwithstanding, the religious connection, names definitely help in creating order and defining purpose. But what is also held as precious to me is that God included mankind in this precious privilege of naming things.

God delegated authority to the First man, Adam, to name all the animals he brought to him which was an act of delegating stewardship and authority to humanity.

Fast forward…so, it was in the year of our Lord, Jesus Christ, November 5, 1982 when the Holy Spirit spoke into my heart and enlightened me on the biblical translation of Jesus and just how that name should be understood.

               THE LORD'S PRAYER - MATTHEW 6:9-13               
               (AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF JESUS CHRIST)
Our Father Which Art In Heaven

(I have come down from heaven,		There are many gods of this world. But I’m talking about my Father (yours and mine) who lives in that Holy Habitation… Heaven.
Hollowed Be Thy Name

(to endorse everything
I have made.		Jesus is saying, may the name of God (His name ‘Jesus”) be written (carved) into and onto everything which thou (he) hath made both in Heaven and on earth. In the Old Testament, after King Solomon had completed the Lord’s House, using the Lord’s blueprint, the Lord God “spoke” to Solomon and said “I have hollowed this house which thou hath built, to put my name there forever.”
I Kings 9:3
Thy Kingdom Come

(I’m here! here! Look at me!
I am the Kingdom
predicted to come!
Jesus says, I’m talked about all through the Old Testament. Somebody was always saying the Kingdom will be established. My Father promised I would come through the house of David. “Then I will establish the throne of the kingdom upon Israel for ever.”
I Kings 9:5
Thy Will Be Done On Earth
As it is in Heaven

(Obey me and do my will.		Yes, I have created you in my own image and because I have a free will, you, too, have a free will. Use it and OBEY. Adam misused his will and was “set out” of safety (Eden). The angel Lucifer also misused his will and was set out of Heaven. Only God’s will now reigns in Heaven. It’s down here on earth, where I have come, that things are all messed up.

Gen. 3:23-24
Rev. 12:3
Give Us This Day Our
Daily Bread

(Recognize me as your all in all.
Accept me (Jesus) today because I am the bread of life. Pray that I might become real in your life. Digest my teachings. Digest me. Eat me and you’ll never die! Because I am the Bread of Life.

John 6:35
And Forgive Us Our Debts
As We Forgive Our Debtors

(Stop judging folks!

Accept them! Accept Me!		Be ever so careful when you include these words in your prayer. Don’t forfeit your prayer to the Father because you went down on your knees before you went to your brother and asked forgiveness.

Matthew 6:14 & 15 says…

For if ye forgive men their trespasses your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
For Thine Is The Kingdom

(I’ve told you once and I’m
telling you again. It’s me they were
talking about.		I am the authority, now. My Father has crowned me. You must receive me (Jesus) as the King before you can enter into the Kingdom of my Father.
And The Power

(Try me,
Test me, Prove me,
Use me,		If God is for you, no man can be against you. For greater is he that is in me than he that is in the world.
And The Glory

(The “secret” is no more
The mystery is cleared up.		The mystery of whose coming to save (redeem) mankind is cleared up. I am the glorious one the world has been awaiting.
Forever

(Wise up world!		You will pass away. Your works will pass away. But what I’m telling you (my word) shall last for all times.

Isaiah 40
AMEN
(SO BE IT)		A MESSAGE FROM THE HOLY SPIRIT

Click  http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!