Category: Prayers For New Beginnings

God, In A Still Small Voice, Has Good News For Single Folks!

On By SonjaIn Instruction on how to disciple others, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth3 Comments
STOP! in the name of love…think it over.

TO MY SUBSCRIBERS AND VISITORS TO THIS BLOG…THE FOLLOWING SUBMISSION IS A RE-BLOG FROM A PAGE IN MY DIARY FROM 1996. I THOUGHT YOU MIGHT ENJOY READING IT AGAIN.

How about a little nostalgia? For this week’s blog, I would like for you to take a little stroll with me down memory lane. What prompted this sentimental journey, you might asked? Well, this week I received a facebook message from a long lost friend from my past. He and I were both young adults at the time, and members of the same church located in a small town in Maryland, USA. Since I was also a Sunday School teacher at that time, and assigned to teach a co-ed teenage class, the president of a young adult Bible Study group invited me to be a facilitator at a workshop for single folks during an upcoming weekend conference retreat.

What an amazing opportunity, I thought, to broaden and share my ever-expanding spiritual growth in the Lord. For He (the Holy Spirit) had certainly been taking me on mystical journeys, as He opened up the inner most meanings of God’s holy scriptures during my devotional study time. However, so far, I had not received any indication that I was to share or do anything corporately with this new in depth spiritual knowledge.

Wow, what a nice surprise. To be remembered after all these years.

Therefore, I attributed the subject matter for this week’s blog to that unexpected (out of the blue) facebook greeting from a long lost friend. Obviously, the ole adage, ‘Out of sight, out of mind,’ is not necessarily true.

So, in early December, 1996, while preparing for that young adult workshop that I was to facilitate at that weekend retreat, I ran across a newly published book by Dr. Jeremiah Wright, entitled Good News For Single Folk. After praying over all the materials I had gathered, and after receiving spiritual confirmation that all was well, following is what happened.

At first, as I began developing an outline from the materials, I experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit, big time! It seemed as though I was being hindered from developing my outline because I was starting from the wrong premise. As I raised my pen to cross out yet another sentence for the umpteenth time, I paused. Something supernatural was happening. Someone was calling my name. In a whisper I said, “Speak Lord.” Immediately, I was led to turn in the scriptures to Luke 19:10b: “...for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

With trepidation, I softly inquired of the Holy Spirit what exactly was it that was lost and how does it apply to singles. Again, I was led to read several additional scriptures in Genesis 3:21-24. There, we find all of the provisions and disciplines God administered to ‘fallen’ mankind.

  • We were to be clothed in garments of skin because we had lost our glorified bodies.
  • We now knew good from evil, thus we lost our innocence. Therefore we have no excuse.
  • Our minds became befuddled and we didn’t know what was good for us. In other words, we lost our freedom of choice.
  • Physical Death was ushered in and we lost external life.
  • We were banished from the Garden of Eden and lost our eternal home and all the luxuries that went with it.
  • And finally, because of the Guardian Angels with the flaming swords, we lost easy access to the Way. God placed stumbling blocks in our paths.

Once again, I humbled myself and asked the Lord what does this have to do with singles? God said to me; Tell the class that because of the acts of the first couple, (Adam and Eve), the sanctity of marriage was also abridged. Divorce and unfaithfulness are imminent. But, the Good News is Jesus Christ! He is the Bridegroom Who would never be unfaithful to His God nor to His bride (us).

So, in His communion time with me, Jesus, in a still small voice, put forth this proposition…Since married couples are considered single in My Father’s eyes (and the two shall be one), and single people are already single, tell everybody in your Young Adult Sunday School Class to marry Me! Let’s elope before you have time to get lost again!

Fsquared Photography - Noteworthy Wedding Photographers

Click to hear Buddy Holley’s song, “Think It Over” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isgUxR4R_hg

My prayer for singles…

Dear Heavenly Father: Please protect the intimacy and oneness you have instituted in the relationships of courting young peoples and other couples in general. For it is only with Your protection can they guard their hearts against temptation and keep it from all hurt, harm and influences from outsiders. It is also my prayer that You keep their hearts focused on Your nuptial vows so that their spirits may become one in Your sight. Never allow the couples to ignore or turn from seeking solace from each other before they abandon all hope in You and in reconciliation. I pray this prayer in the Matchless Name of Christ Jesus, Amen!

Scripture Lesson: “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one. Therefore, what God has joined together, let man not separate.” Mark 10:7-9.

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

GOD’S SON IS MY BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATERS

On By SonjaIn Building Spiritual Bridges, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Peace, Prayers For Spiritual Growth4 Comments
You are welcome to use my bridge. #WordPrompt (*)
Where are you headed?

Imagine this! Let’s suppose that everyone in today’s society is going on a journey. Before embarking on this venture each traveler must register their affiliation with one of two very different societies characterized by its idealistic approach to moral and/or immoral living. Also, each person must declare their travel status. Are you traveling under the guise of a Migrant or an Immigrant?

How to know where you stand…first, realize whatever your status, you are going to need help!

I used the word ‘guise‘ because many people apply conflicting interpretations to these two words. So, allow me to impart to you a bit of advice. Once you start your journey, you will need two things: an identification card bearing your name and status, as well as access to an Infinity Bridge.

Did you know that as people cross the bridges of life their sojourn can be as a migrant today and as an immigrant tomorrow? If you are traveling as a Migrant, no matter where you go, you can always go back to your original place of origin and resume your life. But, if you decide to leave your place of origin and permanently settle down where you have immigrated to, your traveler status has now changed and you are referred to as an Immigrant. This designation means if you have legally entered this country, you can be granted permission to stay and work there without restrictions.

Reasons why you need access to an Infinity Bridge…

Since the journey for every card carrying traveler will be inflicted with setbacks and detours, an imaginary bridge named Infinity will be at their disposal at all times, and each traveler will always be welcome to use it. To access the bridge you must show your card which declares your current citizenship and reason for traveling.

This Infinity Bridge is safe and is necessary for traveling because it is limitless and has no beginning and no ending. However, each traveler will be required to pay a toll every few miles. There will be signs posted along the bridge advising when it is time to pay. The price of each toll is for the traveler (whether on the road as a Migrant or Immigrant) is required to speak directly into a voice box affixed to the bridge; declare their traveling status and reflect on how the social mores (immoral and/or moral) of each locale he or she has visited thus far, have influenced their perception on life. Just how are they viewing the world collectively. What sound measures were necessary to navigate safely and responsively through it.

At this juncture, the traveler should also assess whether or not he is traveling on the right bridge and if it is taking him in the direction he wishes to go. Other signs along the bridge will remind the traveler to get an understanding about different circumstances in life and the various ways available to him as to how they can be followed, circumvented, improved upon, mimicked or discarded.

Finally, the traveler may encounter a law enforcer who has the authority to remove him from the bridge or to issue him a citation. The traveler’s civil infractions may cause him or her to be detained for a short period of time. But know this, the ultimate critique of whether a migrant or immigrant is living an immoral or moral life comes from a much Higher Power. He is known as the Keeper of the Bridge. The One Who can set speed limits, repair potholes, revoke traffic sentences, issue pardons, right wrongs and hand out rewards. So, another suggestion for the travelers is for them to keep a copy of the ‘Traveler’s Handbook For Life‘ in their backpack. They should review it every few miles and remain on the Infinity Bridge. Do not detour off of it neither to the right nor to the left.

(You may wish to categorize the above allegory as a story that has a hidden meaning typically concerning moral and political views. And you would be correct in so doing. Therefore, please allow me to send up a quick prayer of forgiveness for intruding into your private space. Straight forward talking about ‘bridges’ is not my forte.)

Dear All-knowing God of us all: There is nothing too hard for you. We come on bended knee confessing that we have neglected the stranger among us. (I’m a witness, because I, too, have been a foreigner in a strange land.) But now, Sweet Jesus, it is our hope that You will equip all mankind to strive to build bridges and not barriers, to show love and not be loathsome, to be filled with your Spirit and not emboldened with self-righteousness.

Please unite us into a spirit of togetherness realizing that we are all fellow citizens in a state of transition through a strange land, trying to find a permanent home. Unite our hearts, souls and minds to become more like You. Constantly remind us, Lord Jesus, that You are that Bridge over troubled waters whose steel pylons were not made by human hands. Amen

Sturdy steel bridge pylons able to support the weight of the world.

And finally, my friends, I wish you farewell and hope your journey will be a fruitful one. But most of all it is my desire that your bridge is well anchored in a sure foundation.

Scripture Lesson “You have made known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence; with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.” Psalm 16:11

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

(*) Note: My blog host, WordPress, suggested a #WordPrompt (Bridge) for their bloggers to blog about for the month of March 2022.

God’s Holy Word Has Something To Say About Colors – Part 2 (Reprint)

On By SonjaIn Instruction on how to disciple others, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth, Prayers For Understanding3 Comments

As we continue to proceed with Part Two of “God’s Holy Word Has Something To Say About Colors”, I trust you have not only enjoyed Part One, but have learned something very interesting (based on their description) and gratifying concerning the election of various colors God chose to assign to his creation.  And the beauty of God’s selection of colors is that he did not have to labor over nor give a great deal of thought to his assignments.  That’s because God already knew what mental effects various colors would have on mankind’s physic and mental welfare.

So, let’s continue our study of colors by investigating ‘White’, ‘Back’ and ‘Gray’.

The Color White

In the Western cultures, especially in the Christian Holy Bible, the meaning for the color “WHITE” represents honesty, innocence, purity and cleanliness. But the one symbol that I find the most interesting is ‘hope’. Let’s review how in Genesis 30:25-43, Jacob (later called Israel) whose name means ‘supplanter‘, tricked his boss, Laban, into paying his wages in livestock.

Jacob proposed that Laban allow him to go through Laban’s flock and remove every spotted, blemished and speckled goat, lamb and sheep (livestock that was deemed unprofitable financially), and they be given to Jacob as his wages. By the way, Laban had changed Jacob’s wages ten times, but had never paid him a dime of it.

So, Jacob proposed to Laban that he separate his ‘worthless’ livestock and give them to him as his wages. Laban agreed. Unbeknownst to Laban, Jacob cut branches from poplar, almond and plane ole ordinary trees. He peeled the bark from the branches but allowed stripes of white inner bark to show through on the cut limbs. Next, Jacob, placed some of the branches in Laban’s watering troughs so that they would be directly in front of the livestock when they came to water and to mate.

The Holy Spirit did not communicate to me the meaning of Jacob’s actions, but suffice it to say that Jacob’s shenanigans worked out and flocks of little lambings and kiddings were born with streaks and speckles; enough to make Jacob a very rich herdsman. Those white streaks on the branches were the cause of it all. (And of course, God’s miraculous hand of intervention.)

The Color Black

“BLACK” is known as a sophisticated color. This hue is timeless and classic. It symbolizes strength and power. Black is also the most popular color in the advertising/signage world. There is also an air of mystery, disception and evil associated with this color. In scripture, God says that He formed the light (to depict righteousness) and he created the darkness (to be the consequence of disobedience, sin and trespasses. (Isaiah 45:7)

Black is also associated with our sins, moods of depression, loneliness and harboring pessimistic feelings of anger.

Question? So why do we say: “He/She told a little ‘white’ lie? Why isn’t the question; “He/she told a little ‘black’ lie?” Go figure!!!

The Color Gray

While the color black represents Good Friday in the Christian world, the color ‘GRAY’ represents the season of Lent and is closely associated with fasting and prayer. And naturally the color gray denotes repentance and maturity (Senior citizens).

In some circles, psychologists define gray as a color that fosters stability. It is preceived as being a neutral color and brings balance and harmony. At other times, gray adds sophistication to situations like being a go-between for the colors white and black.

Sometimes you hear people express a particular negative mood that they are in, such as: A gray mood or a melancholy mood. The root syllable for melancholy is ‘mel’ which denotes bad or evil and the ending is ‘holy’. Could this color silently signify that God is not pleased with our wishy-washy sacrifices of praise. (I’m just sayin’!!!)

Illustration of different color meanings in color psychology

PLEASE RETURN NEXT FRIDAY, MARCH 11, 2022, FOR PART THREE OF THIS HIGHLY INTERESTING AND INFORMATIVE SUBJECT ON COLOR PSYCHOLOGY IN THE BIBLE. HOPEFULLY, MY RESEARCH ON THIS SUBJECT WILL HELP INCREASE YOUR BIBLICAL KNOWLEDGE ON HOW GOD EMPOWERED ALL OF US TO SEEK AND LEARN MORE ABOUT HIS GOODNESS AND MERCIES CONCERNING THE SECRETS OF CREATION.

My prayer for you

My Dear Lord and Savior, please make me willing and unashamed to witness to others about my relationship with You. Help me to develop scriptures along with my own life experiences around colors that can represent You in a mighty and truthful way. Empower me to show them Your marvelous will and Your loving precepts. Guide my enthusiasm and direct my search for resource materials like children’s bibles that come with colorful felt swatches of materials that will help me use colors in my delivery of Your truths. And then use those whom I have witnessed to and whom You have empowered with the Holy Spirit to spread the Gospel to their families, friends and communities. I ask it all in the precious Name of Jesus the Christ. Amen.

Scripture Lesson: “Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him. “We have found the Messiah” (that is the Christ). John 1:40-41

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

The Color White

God Is Softly And Tenderly Calling You

On By SonjaIn Prayers About God and Me, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth3 Comments

So, why do I blog.  Well, let me explain.  My blogging started with the intent on expressing my intimate relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with my family and friends.  Suddenly, I began to realize that Jesus also desired to have a sincere relationship with me.  Gradually, then softly and tenderly, something began to happen to my neck…then my shoulders…then my awakening hours…then my choice of entertainment such as what to watch on TV…and finally what conversations I was to engage in and how I spent my leisure time and to whom to spend it with. 

I begin to imagine that someone was closely following me and I would quickly turn around to see just who this imaginary figure was. But of course there was no one there. It took a few years for me to recognize just Who was doing the calling and for me to heed His call. But finally I recognized it was the Lord’s voice and not my own discriminating intuitions.

Alan Jackson – Softly And Tenderly (Live) – YouTube

https://www.youtube.com › watch

In the early years…

I also must admit that my deceased fraternal grandmother was another rock-solid influence regarding my way of thinking as it concerned my health issues. I would often think of her and be reminded of how she coped with mundane illnesses in life such as pesky body aches and pains. Grandma Novella prescribed a home remedy for everything from the flu to morning sickness. And most of the concoctions she used came from her own back yard. I can remember how she would escort me into the thick grass of the back yard and we would pick dandelion roots, sage and mint leaves, camel’s root and all kinds of berries, herbs and sweet honey from the bee hives. Grandmother was a walking novice pseudo-pharmacist. And she was a staunch bible scholar and taught me a lot of scriptures.

So, as you can guess, it was no accident as to how I came to entitle my blog “Conversations With God Using Scripture“. I had to add ‘Using Scripture’ because there were already so many books and articles entitled ‘Conversations With God‘. And as I began to blog on various subjects, I realized that I had personally experienced many of the life episodes foretold in scripture concerning the lives of saints and sinners. You know the doubts people have upon hearing corrective instructions but not heeding them. And later finding yourself in deep trouble. Or, the dreams a person begins to have of future events and later actually living through the dream.

I became so intrigued and interested in the finite details and mysteries in the Bible that I made a concerted effort to look up the meaning of Names in the Bible. This grew to an interest in lineages and who begot whom. Needless to say, the Bible turned me on! (In a good way.)

Fast Forward…

I have been faithfully contributing content to this blog every Friday and so far, since May 2018, I have published a blog every Friday without fail for the past three years. That’s how I came to incorporate that ‘constant’ into my website address…http://www.tgifmasterminds.com. Thank God It’s Friday. And since the Master leads and guides me all the way in my compositions, and uses my mind to develop them in, I added ‘masterminds‘. Pretty clever, don’t you think.

Hopefully, you enjoyed and perhaps appreciated this little bit of trivia about myself. Many people have questioned me on this very subject.

Now I have a prayer for you…

Dear Heavenly Father, as you call others to pick up pen and paper and begin to tell the world of your goodness and plans for their future, may they be somewhere listening for their name. For You are so worthy to be praised and worshiped. May their desire be to heed the call and to take up the gauntlet. May they study to show themselves worthy and approved for the task in Your Name. If necessary, may they repent for their slothfulness (as I did) if they have neglected to show gratitude to such a high calling. Please help us to be thankful in all things because that is what You expect from us. These blessings are sent up to You in Your precious Name, Jesus the Christ. Amen and Amen!

Scripture Lesson:

Brown 15" x14" Decaltor for I Know The Plans I Have for You declares The Lord Jeremiah 29:11 Quotes Sayings Words Art Decor Lettering Vinyl Wall Art Inspirational Uplifting Bible

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

God’s Greatest Advice…WWJD

On By SonjaIn Heaven Is For Real, Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New Beginnings5 Comments
I have no idea what Jesus would do. Let’s call Him up!!

Tell me something. Have any of the following expressions ever escaped from your mouth?  “Awe sucks, that didn’t work!”  “What came over me?  Why did I listen to them?” “I should have known better.  I thought that person was wise!”  “I should have followed my first thought and used Google.  Google knows everything!  Right?”

WRONG!!      I, TOO, HAVE BEEN THERE AND DONE THAT!! WHAT A WASTE OF TIME!

Seemingly, people in today’s world are constantly seeking words of wisdom from supposedly dependable and intelligent people.  But as it turns out, often then not, they are chasing down a rabbit hole.  In other words, they are becoming engaged in a process that is particularly strange, problematic, and difficult to accomplish, especially as it develops or unfolds.  Realistically, there is no way to know if you can even trust the source.  I found that out the hard way.  Let me explain.

SINCE WALKING IN THE LIGHT…

Thanks be to God, I have learned that true wisdom comes from God and is characterized by the fear(*) of him.  Whether you are seeking spiritual or secular advice, you should always rely upon the acronym WWJD.

WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?  

When I was a young novice entrepreneur, I ventured into a very popular multi-level marketing skim which was based on a lot of hype, false advertising, and disillusions.  I invested and lost thousands of dollars and ended up with a garage full of unused and useless products.  And the sad part was, I had persuaded a few other people to follow in my footsteps.  I regret and repent my actions to this day.

Ironically, wisdom is priceless and cannot be found in a person’s mind neither in a book nor on the internet.  Wisdom comes from God in heaven and disclosed in the Bible for mankind to uncover.  But sins and atrocities committed by people on earth can have an effect on your gaining access to wisdom from heaven.  So, beware!

MY PRAYER FOR YOU:

Dear Heavenly Father, I truly want to make my thoughts obedient to You and to focus them on all things that are beautiful and good and right so that my life will reflect Your peace. I also realize that one day You will enable us to see everything more clearly and to fully understand Your purposes. Thank You so much for increasing my joy in my decision making process because I have now learned to be more mature and god-centered in my thoughts on Whom to trust. Your continued blessings I ask in the Precious Name of Jesus. Amen and Amen.

(*) NOTE: ‘Trembling’ fear.  The kind that envelopes respect, reverence, and worship.

Scripture Lesson:  “Where then does wisdom come from, and where is understanding located?  It is hidden from the eyes of every living thing and concealed from the birds of the sky.”  Job 28:20

(Click below to hear this gospel song by the Staple Singers on how to reach Jesus.)

The Caravans – Call Him Up And Tell Him What You Want

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

God Is Calling Us To Meet Our Needs Through Praying

On By SonjaIn How To Pray For Others, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth1 Comment
That’s for me to know and for you to find out!

There is a popular bank commercial that starts out with the announcer asking, ‘What’s in your pocket?’  Next, he goes into a litany of benefits as to why you should consider applying for one of his bank’s lines of credit, whether it is through a credit card, loan, or debit card to supply your needs.  All his message is after is that in the end, he is successful in shackling you to become indebted to the bank he represents.

There is another popular Announcer out there softly and tenderly hawking His products to the masses that He claims will bring you great benefits if only you will try them.  His question to the populace is, ‘What’s in your heart?’  He is suggesting that you plug into His 4 “P’s” — Presence, Power, Perception, and Purpose.  And the way to do that does not require you to apply for anything.  All you must do is to ask, seek and knock though the act of prayer.

Mother and Son praying together.

The good part about the second Announcer is that He is willing to help you accomplish your goals.  All you must do is to find a quiet, secluded place with few distractions.  And begin praying with the understanding that He already knows your heart’s needs and desires before you ask.  So simple use this acrostic while praying:  A.C.T.S.

A = Ask C = Confession T = Thanksgiving S = Supplication

A True Story…

Some years ago, I was in my kitchen preparing dinner when I heard a very troubling report on the radio. I immediately stoped cooking, turned off the stove and began to pray about the incident. All of a sudden, I heard a voice whisper: ‘Get on your knees.’ As I began to kneel down, very gently, ‘Somebody‘ pulled my legs out from under me and placed me faced down flat on the floor. The floor tile was extremely hot against my face. I begin to pray with all my heart and with all my soul.

The message that I received from that above experience so many years ago was that if you really want to learn how to pray for certain situations, do not take God for granted. Prayer is a powerful tool to use when seeking God’s help. In prayer, you are seeking God’s four “P’s”…his presence, his power, his perception and his purpose. Allow him to orchestrate and implement your posture as he sees fit.

I have witnessed those in deep prayer to weep, dance, twirl in laughter, speak in tongues, remove their shoes, stand, tremble, kneel, sit and faint.

My unadulterated prayer for you is this…

Precious holy Spirit, you know how much we all struggle to pray. We humbly ask that you please teach us to pray earnestly according to your will and your way. And if we do not manage to get it right, please, please, pray and intercede on our behalf to our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. Amen and Amen!

Scripture Lesson: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7

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

God’s Sovereignty Over All Things

On By SonjaIn How To Pray For Others, Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New Beginnings9 Comments
I can’t take it any more!

This week I am studying the Book of Job with my 6:00 a.m. Bible Study Group.  And what an eye opener the under lying chapters have been!  If you are familiar with this Old Testament book, you know that Job was afflicted with body sores, and he lost all his wealth, family, livestock, and servants because of a Spiritual battle between God and Satan.  Even after all this devastation, his wife condemned him, too.

The reason for me to categorize this book as an eye opener is simply because as I examine my own life over these past years, I now realize that I have encountered many family members, friends, strangers, and associates that have expressed to me similar experiences that they have gone through that were like Job’s.  Of course, at the time, these people did not realize that they were paralleling a story from the Holy Bible, nor did I, at the time, connect the dots.

But two weeks ago, all of what I had been living through during those past few years when counseling others on this matter, came home to roost.  Without betraying a confidence, let me try to explain what happened.  A new friend of mine engaged me in an unsolicited conversation about my (…and I am quoting her) calm mannerism, quiet disposition, patience personified (because I love to work puzzles endlessly), always displaying an inviting smile and willingness to listen to everyone’s problems.  She went on to say that she wished that she, too, had some of those qualities.  But in continuing her assessment, she confided that she just can’t take it any more. She feels she has succumbed to life’s struggles. What is more, she has begun to take out her frustrations on others by speaking harshly to them and sometimes even hurling insults at herself and calling herself stupid and other bad names.

Oh, how her words pierced my heart, spirit, and soul.  And I wanted to take her in my arms to comfort her.  But I did not.  Instead, I gave her my undivided attention and began to speak softly to her with encouraging words.  I did not quote any scriptures or point her to our Lord because I did not…. know to whom I was dealing with.  And furthermore, we were in a public place where other people were now noticing us.  I did, however, get her to compose herself and offered up a quick prayer for reassurance.  We parted understanding that we would continue our discussion at another time.

Now, fast forward to the Book of Job! 

This week, as my bible study group came to Job chapters 6 and 7, I began to see my distraught friend in the life of Job.  These 2 chapters voice a bonified complaint by Job against God about life in general.  In his torment, Job is indicting God’s dealings with mankind.  Job is unaware that he was a pawn in a spiritual warfare conflict between God and Satan. So now you see why I could not engage my friend in a conversation about God’s sovereignty when she already seemed confused about why such a good God inflicts such misery on mere mortals.

Now that the Holy Spirit has heard my cries through prayers and supplications on her behalf, and has given me the examples and solutions experienced by Job’s predicament, I am better equipped to minister to her.  Please pray that the infusion and comfort of the Holy Spirit will be with me as I continue ministering to her and that she will profess her allegiance to the Holy One’ wisdom and her dependence, through faith, on the One who cares.

Dear Heavenly Father, I sincerely praise You for the weapon of the sword of the Spirit. For He points me to my Bible which I can use to resist all the attacks of the Evil One. Knowing that with your Word, it will bring about victory for all those who use it as a weapon to fight spiritual wars. Amen and Amen.

Scripture Lesson: “Remember Your word to Your servant, for You have given me hope. My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.” Psalm 119:49-50

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

God Has A Remedy For Negativity!

On By SonjaIn Instruction on how to disciple others, Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth3 Comments

What so ever things are lovely…

Who are you?  How many “selves” do you recognize?  Which of your “selves” is the most dominant?  And finally, which one of your “multi-selves” is the least dominant?

Now, you might ask, ‘Where is she going with this?’

Well, the goal I am trying to accomplish is this.  I believe if a person knows who they are when they wake up; who they are at noon; and who they are at bedtime; then they will be able to concentrate on their character “selves” that associate with positive emotions rather than counteracting on the “selves” that associate with negative emotions.

Are you following me? Let me explain…

God’s remedy for negativity is to count your blessings and name them one by one. So, the first thing I want you to do is physically count the number of “selves” you see in yourself as it relates to your health and well being. Don’t slight yourself. The more character roles you can identify–such as son or daughter, wife or husband, niece or nephew, aunt or uncle, student, artist, lawyer, doctor, friend, Indian chief–you get the message, etc., the less likely negative emotions such as depression will consume you and as a result, which could effect your overall health.

So, if any one of your “selves” is depressed during the day, you should immediately control your mind to think on that dynamic self that is a writer and start composing (in your mind or at the computer) the next electrifying blog that you will post. All those positive emotions that fill your heart about writing just could actually offset that negative disposition that is trying to flood your soul.

My prayer for you is that you memorize a few of the scriptures listed below and recite them when you are feeling low and despondent. Only believe and have the faith that everything will turn out all right.

Scripture Lesson:

1. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. Philippians 4:8
2. Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2
3. My son do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:1-4
4. Do not conform 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. Romans 12:2
5. Therefore, if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Philippians 2:1-2
6. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-19
7. My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil. Proverbs 4:20-27
8. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18
9. A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22 
 10. May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14

Don’t forget…let’s remember that we are not a product of ‘one’. The Good Lord made us a composite of many dispositions. Let us engage with the ‘self’ that best represents the character of Jesus Christ in all of our dealings with life’s situations.

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

God said: “Hold On To My Unchanging Hand”

On By SonjaIn Prayers About Biblical End Times, Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New BeginningsLeave a comment
The World Trade Center in the 1970s - The Bowery Boys: New York City History
“Twin Towers” New York Trade Center…BEFORE”

Did you know, my friends, that intended evil deeds can eventually become intended good deeds in God’s hands?

Who knew?

Certainly not the people in New York or any other American city on that horrific Tuesday morning, September 11, 2001. For as you know, on an annually bases, every September 11, we commiserate this attack on the United States of America, which was carried out by a militant Islamist group known as al-Qaeda. A series of four coordinated attacks were planned, but one failed.

This particular year, 2021, should be especially notable for Christians who like to equate such memorial events to biblical prophesies and related scriptures. For we are reminded in Hebrews 13:14 (NIV) “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.“

New York Times Blames 'Airplanes' For Attack On Twin Towers On 9/11 - The Police Tribune
“Twin Towers” New York Trade Center…AFTER”

Another biblical comparison to the timing of this event that we are celebrating during 2021 are the events that occurred in Genesis 37:1-36. There we find the tragic events around Joseph being sold into slavery by his own brothers. Just like the events of 9/11, this incident, too, was meant for evil, but God meant it for good.

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Genesis 50:20

Joseph’s brothers thereafter had to live their lives in fear filled with lies and deceptions. However, Joseph’s life found fulfillment and rewards and eventually his life flourished in the midst of this tragedy with only a few exceptions. For 20 years later after being abandant by his brothers, they had to come to him in Egypt for judgement.

Just how did Joseph flourish in the midst of tragedy imposed by his brothers? We don’t have to speculate. Some 20 years later the roles were reversed. Joseph was now the overseer of Pharaoh’s Egypt. Joseph was the strong one and his brothers the weak ones. They came to him in dread for their survival. They feared he would settle the score and throw them into a pit of his own making. But Joseph didn’t. And in his explanation we find solace in his inspirational forgiveness statement quoted in Genesis 50:20.

This year, 2021, marks 20 years since that dreadful day when America lost so many lives and uprooted so many families and generations to come. Let us remember to keep the faith and to hold on to God’s unchanging hand and give place for the words in Hebrews 13:14. For every true Christian should be looking forward to that blessed city not made by hands.

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Christians! If you are in a night of trial, think on these things; cheer up, nourish your heart with thoughts of the coming Savior. Be patient for ‘Lo, I am with you always,’ saith the Lord Almighty!


Scripture Lesson: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

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

 

God Is Calling Your Name?

On By SonjaIn Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth7 Comments
Sleeping child hears God calling him three times.

Reprint October 24, 2024

How many friends, family members and acquaintances do you know that addresses people not by their given names, but rather by using a euphemism (a mild or indirect word or expression) that in most cases depicts an endearing term that shows hospitality and love?

For example, I often greet family and friends by saying, “Hello Lovie. How are you?” If a conversation pursues, I’m guilty of peppering my sentences with “Lovie” a few more times to make a point. Now, I’m not saying that this is all bad. I’m just saying that this week my eyes were opened to the realization that perhaps I might want to just curtail using the expression of “Lovie” as a substitute for addressing a person by their legitimate name.

Here is why…

A few years ago, my bible study group started reading 1st Samuel, a book in the Bible. A very popular story in that book is the one about the young lad, Samuel, who had a dream while living in a priestly commune (temple) with the prophet Eli. Samuel was awakened from his dream twice by someone calling him. Samuel thought it was Eli so he got up and went to Eli. Since Eli had not been the one who called unto Samuel, Eli instructed Samuel what to say if he heard his named called a third time. Finally, the Lord did call his name again, but this time He called out, “Samuel! Samuel!” and He got Samuel’s attention. Samuel’s response was, “Here I am Lord. Speak, for your servant is listening” (1st Samuel 3:1-10).

I am very familiar with that story as I am sure you are too. But this time Samuel’s encounter with the Lord really got my attention and I wondered how many times was a double salutation used to call somebody in the Old and New Testaments. My research revealed that throughout all sixty-six books in the entire Bible, only nine people and one city were addressed by calling their names twice.

I immediately called upon the Holy Spirit and asked if we could have a little conversation…

In my spirit I began to realize that every time an individual was called by name twice, he or she was elevated to a greater and higher position of importance in the scheme of things in the Bible.

  1. Abraham! Abraham! He became the Father of many Nations . (Genesis 22:11-13)
  2. Jacob! Jacob! He became a great nation siring 12 tribes. And his name was changed to Israel. (Genesis 46:1-4)
  3. Moses! Moses! He was assigned to become a deliverer of God’s people. (Exodus 3:1-10)
  4. Samuel! Samuel! He was young at the time, but God was grooming him to be a priest, prophet, and judge. (1 Samuel 3:1-10)
  5. Martha! Martha! She was the sister to Mary and Lazarus. Martha was taught from being anxious about many things in life. (Luke 10:38-42)
  6. Simon! Simon! Also known as Peter. He learned to rely on Jesus instead of his own self. (Luke 22:31-32)
  7. Saul! Saul! Also known later as Paul. He changed from persecuting Christians to teaching them. (Acts 9:4)
  8. Lord! Lord! This was the title people began to use with their lips but not with their hearts. (Matthew 7:21-22, 25:11: Luke 6:46; 13:25)
  9. Eloi! Eloi! Definition for “My God, My God” that people still call on today. (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34; Psalm 22:1)
  10. Jerusalem! Jerusalem! The name given to the only city in the Bible that was elevated to prominence. (Matthew 23:37 and Luke 13:34)

This is the conclusion of the matter…

If and when God calls your name TWICE, will you recognize him and answer the call? Will Jesus get your attention? I truly believe that God has a place and an assignment for each and every one of us to perform. He is no respecter of person. What he has done for others, he will do for you! So, for goodness sake…don’t miss it when God calls your name…TWICE!

My prayer for you…

Dear Heavenly Father: First of all, I want to thank You for knowing our names and just where we are at any given moment. We also wish to thank You for Your divine organizational structure, for it is written in Ecclesiastes 3:1-3 that “There is timing and purpose for everything in God. There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…And a time to heal.” So, dear Jesus, please find all of us in good health, good spirits, good moral living conditions, and good hearts for service in Your vineyards. May we all use good common sense and good judgment and be submissive to the instructions of the Holy Spirit and to always remember that love never fails when carrying out Your decrees and directions for our lives. We humbly come laying these prayers at the feet of Jesus. Amen!

I’ll Be Somewhere Listening For My Name

Scripture Lesson: He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, (2 Timothy 1:9 NIV)

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