God Allowed Me To Be Creative And To Set His Word To Poetry

On December 7, 2018 By SonjaIn Uncategorized2 Comments

Ruth and Naomi, Pieter Lastman, 1624

Ruth, loyal daughter-in-law to Naomi

Sometimes, God allows me to do my own thing when I want to remember or get a better understanding of a particular story in the Bible. I often look for key words or draw the storyline on paper; like when God is building a wall that specifically describes each right and left turn or the particular distance a character travels and which side of the city he/she decides to settle in. I’ve learned that by doing this it helps me know in advance whether the construction or trip will bring feast or famine for the laborers or travelers.

This method of study was put into motion while reading just a few short verses in the Book of Ruth. “In the days when the judges ruled...” was my first clue. If judges were needed, then God’s people are making poor decisions and everybody is doing as they see fit. In this case, Naomi’s husband, Elimelek was guilty. Next, “…there was a famine in the land.” Now, whenever there is a famine in the land, it indicates that nobody is calling upon the Name of God and/or everybody is disobeying God’s Word. In other words, nobody is ‘eating’ God’s Word. So, without saying so, the story is indicating to me that Elimelek did not consult God before making his decision to relocate to Moab. “So a man from Bethlehem in Judah,…” why on God’s green earth would a man of God want to leave Bethlehem, which means ‘house of bread’ and go to a place called Moab without praying about it first? Don’t forget, Moab was the name of Lot’s first-born son by his own daughter! (Not a good union.)

So, since the Book of Ruth only consisted of four chapters, I decided to set it to rhyme.

“Naomi’s Adversities Became Ruth’s University” (A poetic synopsis of Chapter One)

Naomi was an Israelite pilgrim, depicted in the Book of Ruth. She shared the biblical storyline with a Moabites who came to know Truth.

Naomi, her husband, Elimelek, along with two sickly sons, left their home in Bethlehem-Judah in search of a distant, far away region.

What necessitated this journey? Why did a famine engulf their land? Was God punishing His people? An unruly, stubborn and immoral clan.

Eventually, all arrived safely in Moab, a land situated east of the Dead Sea. But not long afterwards Elimelek died and what was once four became three.

Now, as the story goes, in due season, sons Mahlon and Chilion married. One wife was Orpha, the other Ruth. Still ten years later both women were barren.

Death came calling claiming both boys, just as it had claimed their father. Alone, Naomi sat to grieve and fret, her comfort: just two Moabite daughters.

By and by Naomi regained her strength and decided to return to Bethlehem. The Lord had lifted the famine, and both daughters desired to go with her to give her a hand.

Naomi insisted that they not follow, but return to live with their own kin. She thanked them for their loyalty and prayed new husbands they’d win.

So Orpha kissed Naomi and said, adieu, but Ruth wept and clung mightily. Ruth said, “Where you go I will go, your people and your God are mine, too.”

The two ladies arrived at Bethlehem to warm greetings from far and near. ‘Mara’ was the name Naomi chose to reintroduce herself to her peers.

God had dealt very bitterly by taking her husband and two sons. She had to bury them down in Moab, she couldn’t bring them home to Judah.

So, to my readers, if you have never experimented with this form of learning God’s Word why don’t you give it a try. It will increase your ability to run ahead of the story and guess the ending before it happens. But best of all, our divine Teacher, The Holy Spirit, will began to trust you with and to anoint you with a better and deeper understanding of God’s Word. (You may have already noticed God uses a lot of shortcuts in His writings.)

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Just like your Creator…Experiment in learning God’s Word…Be Blessed!

So all you poets out there get started…God is leaving it up to you to make His word plausible and digestible for all peoples. Remember what the Disciple John said:

Scripture Lesson: “Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” John 21:25

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

God Can Change Your Name, Too!

On November 30, 2018 By SonjaIn Uncategorized2 Comments

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But do you really know your new name in God’s Galaxy? When He calls will you answer?

This is a true story, folks. One day, many years ago, while studying the Bible, I noticed that in the Old and New Testaments, for many of the characters listed therein, either God or Authoritarians of conquering nations of the Israelites would change their names. And when God changed a person’s name it was generally to what or to whom that person would become.

For example: Abram to Abraham; Sari to Sarah; Jacob to Israel; Pashur to “terror on every side”; Solomon to Jediah; Daniel to Belteshazzar; Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah to Shadrach, Meshach and Abaednego; just to name a few.

So, on that day while reading the Bible, I looked up from the pages and I audibly spoke to God by whimsically asking, ‘Lord, when are You going to change my name’? He responded instantly and said, ‘My child, I have been seeking you out all your life’. At the time, that response did not register into my psychic. I had no idea what God meant.

But later on, some years later, I was reading Isaiah 62:12

”And they shall call them, The holy people, The redeemed of the Lord: and thou shalt be called, Sought out, A city not forsaken.”

Everything became clearer after reading that verse. My mind (psychic) put two and two together. That’s your name, I said to myself. Sought Out! Remember, the Lord said to you some time ago, that He had been seeking you out all your life. WHY? Because you were born a sinner and did not know you needed Him. Jesus has been running behind you and tapping you on the shoulder and inviting you to run with Him. You are not forsaken!

Oh, my god! I had been reading the Bible because the stories excited me and I wanted to be able to tell them to others; but my motives were all wrong. So, I now read the Bible to acquire a better understanding of the Son of God, to get to know Him and His message of salvation. I yield. I yield. What must I do to be truly saved! Those were the words I prayed as I put on the full armor of God. I knew I needed Him to help me to flee from death, hell and the grave. And to become an heir of His Kingdom and eternal life.

Yes, in a twinkle of an eye, my name, my body and my soul was changed that day. My new name is Sought Out. I claim it and strive with open arms to be ‘found’ in Him. I have even placed His Name on my vanity license plates on my car. It reads, “My Jah”. Translated it reads, “My God”. (I can get away with using one of God’s Names on my license plate because most people do not know what “Jah” means.) So, let’s keep it our little secret! Jehovah is His Full Name! And my license plates help me to witness to all who inquire ‘what does your license plates mean?’.

Psalms 68:4 reads: “Sing unto God, sing praises to his name; extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.”

For now, I am riding on the highways and byways. Later it will be on the streets of gold.

I now have a new lease on life and I want you to have one, too. If you have never asked the Lord what your new name is, then, its high time you did so. There is definitely a name change for all believers. Read the verse below:

Scripture Lesson: Revelations 2:17 God says, ,”To the one who conquers [death, hell and the grave] I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him [or her] a white stone, with a new name written on the stone which no one knows except the one who receives it.”

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We are all the Lion of Judah’s Children and He knows your name! Just ask and it shall be given.

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

God Initiated “A Fresh Start”

On November 22, 2018December 17, 2018 By SonjaIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

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A Fresh Start With A Gifted Living Tree Of Life…Free of Charge

Okay! So now that Thanksgiving is over, let us now enter wholeheartedly into the Yuletide Season. No, that’s not a biblical scripture verse, but it could be. However, I don’t recall the Holy Spirit directing me to compile a ‘Gospel According To Mother Fowler’. No way! No how!

I’m just calling your attention to the coming 2018 Yuletide Season (which, as you know refers to Christmas) because our Lord and Savior reminded me in my prayer time to take “A Fresh Start” in celebrating His birthday this year and not to become complacent.

Most of us enter the Yuletide Season with great expectation of receiving and/or giving gifts. Sending Christmas cards to friends and loved ones or perhaps visiting them whether near or far is another activity normally scheduled.

But if the truth was told, how many of us actually stop to ‘count the many ways’ principal norms were forever changed when that little bitty Baby was born to Joseph and Mary in a stable over 2,000+ years ago in Bethlehem. How many people realize that such an Event would offer the world “A Fresh Start”?

Let us count the ways….

One of the most famous discourses in scripture given by Jesus is the Sermon on the Mount (better known as the Beatitudes) which is recorded in Matthew and ends with the following verse: “When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.” vs. 7:28

For one thing, the teachers of the law of Moses quoted other rabbis to support their own teachings, thus validating their teaching authority as coming strictly from human beings and traditional norms. Jesus, on the other hand, spoke with divine authority and credited all of his actions, thoughts and instructions as coming from his Heavenly Father, God.

What can we learn from Matthew 7:28 and how can we apply “A Fresh Start” for this upcoming 2018 Yuletide Season.

For one thing, we cannot overlook the word ‘amazed’ in the verse. The amazement was not a good thing. Jesus’ presentation style and new way of teaching and to whom he cited as his authority left the people perplexed and bewildered. So when Jesus had finished teaching these people on the mountainside He moved on from there and eventually returned to his own hometown of Nazareth. He begin teaching in their synagogues and (you guessed it) they, too, were not only amazed [vs. 13:53], but they took offense [vs. 13:57].

“But Jesus said to them, ‘Only in their own towns and in their own homes are prophets without honor.’ And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.” (vs. 13:57b-58)

Epilogue: You and I may not be ‘prophets’, but we are called ‘Children of God’. And what Jesus may be trying to tell us Kids is we should make “A Fresh Start” this season by not only giving and receiving gifts; visiting and socializing with family and friends; and giving ourselves “at-a-boys” at the close of the day. But just maybe we should take the time to revisit the true ‘Reason for the Season’ and Who made it all possible and why.

So, when you wrap that gift, slip a scripture verse within the folds of the wrapping paper. Or during your visits, ask if you can bless their home or the food that will be served by mentioning the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Announce to your family and others that you love them just as Jesus loved us.

Make a sacrifice this season by making “A Fresh Start” in spreading the Good News about that Little Bitty Baby born in Bethlehem. Amen!

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Make A Fresh Start by spending time with Him. Refresh your memory. Then share.

Scripture Verse: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

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

God Provides Healing Words For Those Who Suffer

On November 15, 2018November 20, 2018 By SonjaIn Uncategorized4 Comments

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My previous blog was about your anatomy…’Dem bones. This week I decided to converse with God about aches and pains of the anatomy.

It’s easy. But it sure can hurt. What am I talking about? Just our bodies…especially when aging sets in. The easy part comes as we learn how to be at peace and in ‘good’ health (tolerating it) even when our bodies are hurting and racked with pain and troubled with disturbing thoughts and our spirit is questioning our faith.

In other words, although we have put our physical dilemmas into the hands of medical professionals, we should also look at God’s word and discover how to get to the real source of the matter and arrive at a better health position. For me, that’s easy!

With the help of the mind of our Master Teacher, the Holy Spirit, I will attempt to convey to you what the scriptures have to say about applying a certain reasoning to why Jesus used so many examples of life’s infirmities to teach on how to be blessed, highly favored and content when all hell is breaking loose around you. Here we go!

Scripture Lesson: The following synopsis comes from several verses in two chapters in Matthews 4:23 to 5:12.

While living down here on earth, we ought to always be salt and light in the world regardless of what physical, mental or material state we find ourselves in.

In order to be disciples of Jesus Christ, our ways and demeanor should bring illumination and savor (preservation) to our fellow man. Constantly living in a manner befitting the atmosphere of the Kingdom of God.

Did you know that the word “Blessed” means more than just happy? It has a broader meaning. It takes on the ultimate well-being and distinctive spiritual joy of those who share in the salvation of the kingdom of God.

So, Jesus is referring to the broader meaning of ‘blessed’ when He says, ‘Blessed are those who are poor in spirit, who mourn and who are meek.’ Why? Because they keep their minds dependent upon God and not the world physicians. They are sensitive to their spiritual faults and seek God’s help, favor and comfort during their infirmities.

‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness’…why? They have a deep longing for both personal righteousness and justice for the oppressed. Thus, taking a lot of stress off of their bodies and mental state.

‘Blessed are the merciful’…why? They both forgive and have compassion for others. When you are sensitive to God’s forgiveness it frees you from feeling guilty and brings comfort to and removes stress from caregivers and others. Thus, taking your mind off of yourself.

‘Blessed are the pure in heart’…why? Those persons have no guilt trip as they engage in their devotion to God while on their beds. Subsequently, they are spiritually able to feel Gods presence instead of concentrating on their woes. Offering a heart of thanksgiving for the many blessings God has given you.

All of these qualities or emotions allow us to bring peace to ourselves and others even while on our beds of affliction. BUT, hold on…wait a minute…It’s also a ‘catch 22’ situation…why? Because it can also make us vulnerable to persecution which could put us into a ‘pity-party and bring on more ill feelings’.

Precious Jesus reminded me in our conversation that He also teaches…

‘Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the Children of God.’ Here on earth, our only reward may be to be called “Sons and Daughters of God”. And we may have to physically suffer while experiencing God’s kingdom rule while here on earth by becoming a peacemaker, thus proving our fitness for the kingdom.

Kingdom Rule…

Jesus wanted to make it clear to his Jewish audience and to us that with this new teaching style, He did not come to abolish The Law of Moses. (That some consider a bunch of rules with dire punishments.) But to say that it was not enough to be righteous according to the Law…you must be righteous according to what would Jesus do.

WWJD? You know the answer to that…Take up your cross (your idiosyncrasies; pain, suffering, disappointments, enemies, etc.) and follow Him.

My two cents is simply this…”Sickness and infirmities can come about through bad habits, weak constitutions, exposure to danger, crimes, accidents, birth defects, sin, malpractice, etc., but while experiencing sickness it can also reveal attitudes, values and motives which must be dealt with and transformed if human beings are to be truly in harmony with their bodies and with God. (See Matt. 5:19-48).

Be encouraged and give thanks!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

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

God’s Instructions For Our Anatomy On Worship

On November 9, 2018November 10, 2018 By SonjaIn Uncategorized2 Comments

Before Reading This Blog Post Take A Minute To Reconnect With Your Body Parts Watch The Video (Skip The Ad)

Have you ever stood before a mirror naked and actually examined yourself? God’s Word tells us in Psalm 139 that we are fearfully and wonderfully made and that we should know that fact very well. Do you? Do you truly have any idea how each body part, tissue, molecule and fluids interact with the DNA strand stored in each of the billions of cells in the human body? I don’t think so! I know I don’t! So I asked God.

And do you know what God said to me in confidence…He said, My child, My Word is sufficient for you. All you need to know is that you are fearfully and wonderfully made for MY glory. Consequently, God’s Word has a lot to say about each individual part of our bodies. Why, because all body parts are not only necessary but important as to what they represent in the family of God. Collectively, the “Body” refers to the Church membership of people as a whole. For this blog post, the “Body” is referring to actual body parts: arms, legs, hand, feet, etc.

For the body (The church) does not consist of one member but of many (member body parts). If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose... 1 Corinthians 12:14-26

In other words, the church needs a membership that consists of various kinds of gifts and talents freely distributed to each one by the Holy Spirit.

Specifically, God’s Word says to the body, I made you (in my image) as I saw fit and for my glory. I ‘gifted’ you with reasonable portions of talent to conform to my will through the precious blood of Jesus and to be named heirs of my Kingdom.

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. Psalms 1:1-2

So now, let’s see how our body parts are suppose to perform here on earth for the building up and edifying of God’s holy kingdom. (For as you well know, we will NOT possess flesh and blood bodies in Glory. For God is Spirit and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.)

‘Dem Bones

The Foot Bone (connected to the toe and ankle)

Blog God's Instructions for our anatomy-Foot.jpg Everybody knows that the foot speaks of walking. In scripture, the feet are used to go forth and spread the Good News, either by walking or running.

Also, it is a proven fact that a person is horribly crippled if you permanently lose your big toe. Consequently, you cannot walk a straight line. Goliath’s people (the Philistines) were so huge in stature that God provided them with a total of 12 toes and 12 fingers for stability. 2 Sam. 21:20 (The Philistines lost an opportunity to know Him.)

In order for the Levitical priests to dutifully serve in the tabernacle, the big toe of their right foot had to be sprinkled with the blood of a ram. Ex. 29:20 Obviously, Aaron needed sure footing in the tabernacle. Blood being applied to the right side of the body was a sign of power and strength. Psalm 20:6; Ex. 15:6 Matt. 26:64

In the Book of Acts, the story is written that Peter said to a crippled man at the gate called Beautiful, “I have no silver and gold, but I give you what I have; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” And he took him by the right hand and raised him up; and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. Acts 3:5a-7

In other words, Peter was saying, I do not have money to pay for a physician to heal you, but what I do have (God’s Word and Peter’s faith), get up and walk!

God preordained that our bodies needed to be covered all over with the blood of Christ Jesus. And we are to go forth and walk and live in the power and might of the precious Name of Jesus and proclaim the Gospel! Hallelujah!

The Leg Bone

Blog God's Instructions for our Anatomy - Leg.jpg Although the two thieves who were crucified along with Jesus had their legs broken, why did the soldiers not break Jesus’ legs?

First, bodies hung on a pole had to be buried the same day because this kind of sinful death was under God’s curse. Therefore, soldiers usually broke the legs of criminals to hasten death and to prevent them from trying to escape if by chance they survived the death penalty.

Secondly, the Passover lamb’s flesh could be eaten by the Israelites, but the legs of the lamb could not be broken. Jesus was referred to by John the Baptist and Paul as the (Righteous) Lamb of God. Sinful and riotous living breaks our bones. But righteous living (using Jesus as our example) will help us stand firm under life’s burdens. John 1:29; 1 Cor. 5:6-7.

We must remember; ”The righteous may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers them from them all, he protects all their bones, not one of them will be broken.” Ps. 34:19-20

The Knee Bone

Blog - God's instructions for the anatomy - Knees.jpg Usually, people who worship false gods bow in submission to them while on their knees. Christian believers in Jesus Christ bow to Him in obedience.

In scripture, the knees are depicted as a place to hold others or things; to coddle babies or josh fools; to kneel on or between when worshiping; to support the leg or become weak as water; to express emotions such as knocking together or trembling.

But all you need to remember is: “That at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:10-11.

Femur
Position of femur (shown in red)

The Thigh Bone (connected to the hip)

The femur or thigh bone is the strongest, longest, and heaviest bone in the body. But the strangest part is, the thigh bone is connected to the hip bone by the weakest part of the skeleton structure called the hollow or socket which holds the sinew. I say “strange” but only if you do not know the famous Bible story about Jacob wrestling with the Man all night. Genesis 32:24-31

This socket area is declared sacred to God and to the Jewish community because it represents life. It was the area where the Man touched (man’s weakest bone area) putting Jacob’s hip out of joint, causing excruciating pain, in order for him to release his grip on the Man and to cause Jacob not to prevail over Him (the Creator of man’s body) while wrestling. (So, Who do you think the winner was?)

To this day, the Israelites consider the thigh bone and the socket cavity sacred and do not eat the sinew (tendon) attached to the socket of the hip. (Go figure.) Hallelujah!!! Genesis 32:32

The Back Bone (connected to the Shoulder)

The backbone is anatomically recognized by two other names: the spinal column/cord and the vertebrae. The vertebrae consists of 24 separate and 9 fused vertebrae (bones). This is important because when working together as a whole, the skeleton can bend forward, backwards and sideways But more importantly, the backbone allows a person to stand.

In my research on the subject of bone structure, I learned that spiritually, the human skeleton represents God’s Truth for the souls of Christian believers. As I said before, the backbone enables a person to stand when all 33 vertebrae are working together. Consequently, as long as that person does not put their faith in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God (1 Cor. 2:5), he/she will not, but stand. Subsequently, one needs no spiritual armor for the back in order to stand. (As proven in the lists of armor written in Ephesians 6:10-17.) God’s got your back!

The shoulders are the area on which yokes are harnessed. The shoulders, connected to the backbone, are to offer additional support for objects and/or emotions (cares), and gossip. Also, it is the area of the body that is to be united with another either in strife/war or unity of peace. Genesis 24:14; Matt. 23:4; Zep 3:9

Jesus’ invitation to us is to take His yoke upon ourselves and learn of Him. He goes on to say, His yoke is easy (or empty; no baggage) and His burden is light. So always remember that God’s Truth is the infallible entire Word of biblical scriptures…the irrefutable doctrines. They are the backbone for the true Believers.

The Neck Bone

Did you know that scripture identifies the neck bone as a barometer or mirror for the Lord. It’s the ‘exposed’ part of the body that allows God to examine the most inner secret parts of man’s body, and to know whether or not you have been ‘circumcised’ and are in partnership with him and his covenant or whether you are a stiff-necked person. (I’m not making this up. folks. (See Deut. 9:6-13. READ all of it!)

So ask yourself…what shape is my neck in? Do I use it just to hang ornaments on? Does it depict a lifestyle that God would consider good for nothing but eternal damnation? If so, please mimic Moses. Consider falling on your face before the Lord and repent, not only for yourself, but for your brother, too. Deut. 9:18-21

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This might be a good time to sing, “Oh be careful little eyes what you see…”

A word to the wise…Get in the habit of gently massaging the neck area every time you moisturize your face and say to yourself, ‘I am His wholeheartedly’.

And that’s all I have to say about the Neck!

The Head Bone

Blog - God's Instructions - Head.jpg The physical head is the peoples’ reservoir for God. By that I mean, the head is the storehouse or command post for man’s intellect: his mind, eyes, nose, mouth, ears and hair. And it goes without saying, we should keep it covered/protected at all times. Why? Because if we are not careful life’s circumstances can cause us to doubt God’s inexhaustible love for us.

That is what happened to the Israelites. When Ezekiel prophesied to the dry bones (the stiff-necked Israelites), he addressed the head bone where the seat of intelligence lies. “Then he (God) said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!’” Eze. 37:4

The good news in this prophesy is whatever state your present body is in, it can be restored from exile by the power of the Almighty.

While here on earth, we desperately need the head with all its intellect, to help us guard against the sinful flesh. But in Eternity, we will not need our heads or any other body parts to function. Thus, the transformation from a physical body to a spirit one, like Angels. (There, we will consist of pure Truth.)

So, when we see heads we should visualize it being covered with the Helmet of Salvation, which should give us hope and confidence that Christ’s dying on the cross has conquered all the workings of the devil. Christ has saved us to the utmost! Heb. 7:25

Always remember that even hair on your head can be looked upon as a covering for the preservation of the soul.

Scripture Lesson:

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body,” (1 Cor. 6:19-20).

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

God Explains “The Fruit Of The Spirit” Through Acts 4:32-35 And John 15:16

On November 1, 2018November 9, 2018 By SonjaIn Uncategorized3 Comments

the coordinating conjunctions: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so

Conjunctions….To Use Or Not To Use

Although most grammar teachers and grammar style guides are in disagreement on when it is alright to start a sentence with any of the above conjunctions including ‘because’, I am here to tell you that IT IS ALRIGHT TO DO SO! And this has been true since Biblical times.

A schoolteacher’s rationale for not beginning a sentence with a conjunction such as ‘and’ and ‘but’ ‘grew wings’ in the 19th century. Supposedly, they noticed that younger children were misusing these connectors and composing incomplete sentences to finish their prior written thoughts. So, instead of gently correcting the poor grammar habits of the children, the teachers band the use of sentence-starter conjunctions altogether. And to this day, the controversy continues. (Notice my use of ‘So’ and ‘And’.)

To give my readers further grammatical credentials for utilizing coordinating conjunctions at the beginning of sentences, I refer you to two of the leading world famous literary guides to the English language. (Both B. A. Garner and H. W. Fowler(*) classify the schoolteachers’ beliefs of the 19th century as plain ole superstitions.)

[Following is a quote from the internet.]

“Both Garner’s Modern American Usage, and Fowler’s Modern English Usage call this belief a superstition. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary of English Usage (or MWDEU) says, “Everybody agrees that it’s all right to begin a sentence with and,” and notes that you can find examples of it all the way back to Old English.”

NOW THAT WE GRAMMATICALLY HAVE GOTTEN ALL LEGALISMS OUT OF THE WAY…LET’S BEGIN DISSECTING OUR SCRIPTURE VERSE FOR THIS BLOG.

Scripture Lesson: “BUT the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

Just prior to giving this sobering list of attributes of the Fruit of the Spirit , Paul describes the acts of a sinful nature which has the power to forfeit a believer’s opportunity to receive eternal life with Christ Jesus (v. 5:19-21). So, in other words, by using a ‘coordinating conjunction’, (But), Paul connects a positive truth with a negative one.

Paul’s Understanding For The “Fruit Of The Spirit” As Told In The Book Of Acts

Acts 4:32a Self-Control	All the believers were one in heart and mind.	Restraint exercised over one’s own impulses, emotions or desires.
Acts 4:32b Love	No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.	Unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another.
Acts 4:33a Peace	With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.	Freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions.
Acts 4:33b Kindness	And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all…	The quality or state of being kind; affection.
Acts 34a Forbearance	…that there were no needy persons among them.	The refraining from the enforcement of something as a debt, right or obligation that is due.
Acts 34b Faithfulness	For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales…	Faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.
Acts 4:35a Gentleness	…and put it at the apostles’ feet,	The quality or state of being gentle, honorable; mildness of manner; or disposition.

Acts 4:35b Joy	…and it was distributed to anyone who had need.	Delight; the expression or exhibition of such emotion.
John 15:16 Goodness	“…but I chose you…so that you might go and bear (good) fruit–fruit that will last…”	The quality or state of being good. (Only GOD is GOOD. He alone enables us to bear fruit, not we ourselves.)

(*) Note: No relation to me, Mother Fowler. I”m just sayin’…

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

God Was A-watchin’ When Dorothy Was A Kid

On October 25, 2018November 9, 2018 By SonjaIn Uncategorized5 Comments

I don’t put God in a box. Do you?

I try not to put God in a box when I blog or write poetry or short stories. That’s because he is such a predominant spiritual presence in my life. (I believe I inherited his holy presence from my relatives.) All of my life I have been inundated with stories told to me by my mother and grandmother about how God ‘showed himself’ real and up close and personal in their lives and had often rescued them from hurt, harm and danger inflicted upon them very often by their own careless doings.

Following is a real life story of a tragic event, which was told to the second child born to Dorothy, my mother. I invite you to read this amazing saga to your children and your children’s children. Perhaps, you, too, will be inspired to record one of your own true life stories for posterity while at the same time giving God the glory. Who knows, had Dorothy not been in the loving care of her godly and wise ‘adopted’ mother (and my grandmother) during this episode I might not have been here today.

When Dorothy Was A Kid (Sub-title: “Is It ‘Cracklin’, Yet?)

While visiting my mom, Dorothy, in Minneapolis on my birthday in 2001, I overheard her relate a portion of an incident that had happened to her as a child. Mom was on the phone with one of her many girlfriends and she was laughing and interjecting bits and pieces of this amusing story while at the same time discussing current events. Mom was in the kitchen standing at the sink, I was seated on the sofa a few feet away. I had put down the newspaper I was reading and was deliberately eavesdropping on her conversation. When she finished the call and had hung up the phone, I asked her what she had been talking about and implored her to tell me the whole story concerning her childhood. It went something like this:

In 1930, Dorothy was about twelve years old. Her adopted mother, Kate, (who was also her biological aunt) made skins from the rind of bacon slabs. At that time skins (or cracklin) were not sold in stores. Today, they sell for about $1.50 per bag. Momma Kate would take the rind from a slab of bacon, put it in a large loaf pan and place it in the oven. It was not an electric or gas oven but a wood burning stove which turned fire-engine red when hot. Now this stove held its heat all day, but during the night the fire went out and the stove cooled.

The next morning the fire was rekindled and the bacon rind stayed in the oven for another day of cooking. This went on for about a week. Cooking, cooling and re-cooking until all the fat grease was extracted from the rind. Once the rind curled, it was done. The grease was drained from the pan each day. As a child, baked bacon cracklin was one of Dorothy’s favorite treats. So, naturally, every day she asked her Momma could she look at it to see if it was done. Momma Kate said yes, but to be careful so as not to get burned.

Up until this point, Dorothy was not allowed to pour off the hot grease from the bacon rind. But one evening the smell of the cracklin and her curiosity got the best of her. She realized the oven had cooled down and the ends of the cracklin had curled, so she decided to reach in and get the skins out of the oven. Thinking the wire rack would also be cooled, she took hold of the rack without using a potholder or tee-towel. It did not glide easily. Next she grabbed hold of the grease-filled pan and because her fingers were now beginning to burn, she yanked the grease pan towards her and the hot grease splattered out all over the back of her hand and up her arm inflicting fourth degree burns.

Dorothy screamed to high heaven! Momma Kate, who was a large woman, came running to her rescue. Dorothy was in such pain that when she saw her mother she ran to meet her and thrust her burned hand under the fat arm pit of her mother and proceeded to rub her hand in a back and forth motion. Before Momma Kate could calm Dorothy and stop her, all the top skin had been removed from the back of her hand from the wrist to the knuckles. Dorothy’s hand was white as snow. Momma Kate yelled for Buckwheat, my grandfather, to run to the drugstore which was about 5 blocks away to buy some sulfur powder which was sold by the pound. Today you need a prescription to buy sulfur, but back then Buckwheat bought 15 cents worth and hurried home.

Buckwheat’s big foot leaped upon the front porch and his massive hand swung opened the front door. “Get the sorghum molasses and make a paste with the sulfur, quick”, cried Momma Kate. Buckwheat hurriedly mixed the concoction and spread a thick portion on the back of Dorothy’s hand while she danced a slow motion quick step. (Today, a tetanus shot would be required to prevent infection.) Momma Kate found a clean white muslin sheet and tore a corner from it. To sterilize it, she took a sad iron, heated it on the wood burning stove and pressed the sheet until it was scorched brown. Next, she wrapped the sheet around the burn hand and pinned it securely. Buckwheat made an arm sling out of another part of the sheet and little Dorothy was on her way to mending and very happy.

The next day, Dorothy went to school and because of her dilemma became an instant celebrity with her classmates and teacher, Mrs. Shackelford. Everyone not only wanted to hear the story, but also wanted to help make Dorothy’s life at school easier. Surprisingly, the teacher allowed Dorothy to sit at her big desk until the bandages came off. Momma Kate replaced the dressings each night with fresh bandages. But best of all, Dorothy’s cousin, Paul, who lived with them, had to do all of her chores until she was 100 percent well.

During the telling of this story, my mother was 84 years old, and the back of her hand bore only faint scares of her childhood burn. It was because of the home remedies and the wise thinking of my Grandmother, Momma Kate, that my mother’s hand was not grossly discolored. You see, after two weeks of Dorothy’s hand being bandaged, Momma Kate took red onion husk and boiled them until the water turned red. Dorothy had to soak her hand in this solution for many days. This process was thought to be a natural dye and after several applications Dorothy’s skin color turned from speckled white to smooth brown. Boiled onion juice was also used to dye eggs at Easter time after the water cooled.

It goes without saying that Grandmother Kate gave a lot of praise and thanksgiving to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, during this horrific ordeal. And I, even at this late date (my mother has since gone on to Glory), want to once again thank my mother, Dorothy, for taking the time to revisit such a treasured event in her life.

Blog God Was A-Watchin' pic.jpg

Everyone Has A Story…Those Who Tell The Story Rule Society…So, Who Will Cry When You Die?

As a child growing up, Grandmother Kate was my “Jesus”. She was always doing things for others. Yes, she was more influential in my life than either my mother or father. She smelled good, kept a clean house, always cooked delicious and nutritious meals, washed all our clothes in a number 2 tub with a glass wash board, and polished our shoes on Saturday night and laid out our clothes for Sunday School the next day. Oh, what treasured memories. I only wish I could connect with heaven and let my loved ones know how much I appreciate what they have done for me. My only consolation is to pay it forward. WHO WLL CRY WHEN YOU DIE?

Scripture References: There are many Bible verses that end with “thy faith has made thee whole” or “thy faith has made thee well”. For example: Luke 17:19 and Mark 5:34. Per biblical scholars, “Whole” would imply complete restoration of body parts that were eliminated by the disease (i.e. leprosy). Whereas “well” could imply elimination of the disease and new skin where the missing body parts were. I personally believe my praying Grandmother Kate was exercising her faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to do both for her disfigured child and my mother. Why? Because healing happened and my mother’s skin was totally restored and her miracle is being retold down through the fourth generation of my family. God’s ‘saving grace’ lives on. Hallelujah!!

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

God’s Words Are Inexhaustible

On October 18, 2018 By SonjaIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Blog God's Word is Inexhaustable.jpg

…and I love God’s words on life!

Please allow me to begin this blog by saying I am grateful to God for the extent to which he has tolerated me and enabled me to compose articles on how I believe he would respond to some situations in life based on his inerrant Words in Scripture.

Therefore, I humbly offer the following version of a whimsical story and God’s exemplary explanation for it in this manner.

Ooops!!

A middle-aged woman has a heart attack and is taken to the hospital. While on the operating table she has a near death experience. During that experience, she sees God and asks if this is it. God says no and explains that she has another 30 years to live.

Upon her recovery, she decides to just stay in the hospital and have a face lift, liposuction, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, etc. She even has someone come in and change her hair color. She figures since she’s got another 30 years she might as well make the most of it.

She walks out of the hospital after the last operation and is killed instantly by an ambulance speeding by. She arrives in front of God and complains, “I thought you said I had another 30 years.”

God replies, “I didn’t recognize you.”

Not that He needs one…but this was God’s excuse in rhyme…

Words!!

Words come soaring…Words come marching…Words come seeking…Words come stalking.

Words come walking…Words come running…Words come creeping…Words come strumming.

Words! Words!

Who can live without them…

Cluttering up your mind, they come

Like falling leaves in Autumn.

Overflowing your heart in chaos

Fighting for space in your being

Establishing themselves in voices

Everybody speaking at once…bad timing

Trying to eradicate them from your head

Is like eliminating your body of waste

In a few short hours, they are back again

With a vengeance, running around in haste

Words! Words!

Are like parasites, no doubt

I have resolved to tolerate them

But only until death takes Me out.

[MY BAD!]

**********************************************************************************

I was just having fun, you Guys. Hope you had a laugh or two. Below is your Scripture Lesson for the week:

What does the Bible say about laughter? Laughter is an amazing ability that God gave us all. Laughter helps us cope with sadness and life. The Bible gives examples of when to laugh and when not to laugh. The Bible also gives us the strength to be able to laugh at the wicked. For Psalm 37:12-13 says; “The wicked plot against the godly; they snarl at them in defiance. But the Lord just laughs, for he sees their day of judgment coming”.

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

God Develops Leaders Both Individually and Corporately In The Likelihood of His Son

On October 11, 2018November 9, 2018 By SonjaIn Uncategorized2 Comments

Photo of a child looking at Rodin's The Thinker

WWJD………….What would Jesus Do?

As I have grown and matured in my walk with the Lord, Jesus Christ, I have often been alluded to as a ‘church leader’. I suppose this ‘title’ was given to me because of my love to volunteer my services in a number of church activities/needs such as assistance with financial difficulties, ideas in entertainment/program productions, ability to conduct and teach bible study groups of all ages and genders, lending my professional expertise on church building committees, and consoling and providing hospitality care for the needy of our flock and community.

But whatever talents/services in the church I was providing it was because of my love for God and for his people…not at all for my own glory, fame or fortune. Never the less, I went to God in prayer and asked him to ‘tone down’ my character persona which some church leaders and administrators were conceiving as ‘larger than life’. Or maybe even a bit ‘showy’.

As I prayed while on my knees about this wrongfully applied title, one of my grandmother’s ole hymns kept resounding in my spirit. “Humble me…humble me my Lord. Humble me…humble me and let me do Thy will.”

It was during one of these times of meditation that Jesus conversed with me and said: “My child, as long as you continue to allow Me to be your example, you have nothing to worry about or nothing to be anxious about. Don’t you know that there’s no greater enemy of happiness than to worry. Worrying in and of itself causes a person to expect the worst.” Then He brought to my remembrance “The Law of E. F. Hutton”.

Don’t Worry…See No Evil…Be Happy In The Service Of The Lord!

E. F. Hutton was a Wall Street Company that wanted to position itself as having the last word in the financial community. It was the largest brokerage firm in the USA during 1970s and 1980s. They concocted a clever advertisement showing two businessmen discussing financial matters over a meal in a crowded restaurant. During their discussion, one of the men mentions a tip his broker had given him concerning financial matters, and finally the other man chimes in and declares; “Well, my broker is E. F. Hutton, and E. F. Hutton says…” At that moment in the scene, every restaurant patron stops dining, leans in the direction of the two men and with uplifted heads freeze in an eavesdropping position. Of course, what the company is hoping that the viewer takes away from this advertisement is that when E. F. Hutton speaks, people listen.

Well, evidently not enough people listened because for some time now, E. F. Hutton has been out of business. They bit the dust after being convicted of using fraudulent security practices. All those who once listened to them have scattered to other brokerage firms. They had the last word alright. It was “Goodbye”. Only God is Good and he alone has the last word!

The use of my Example is far better. Unlike E. F. Hutton, Jesus Christ, though dead in the flesh is made alive in the Spirit and thus capable to speak to those persons who lived in the past, in the present, in the future and to those yet to be born. This Holy and Righteous Man was also blessed to have the capability to speak to inanimate objects and they listened, too. Who wouldn’t adhere to someone with so much power and authority. Yes, when Jesus Christ speaks, people listen. And He has given me this assurance that I am covered by His stripes.

Numerous circumstances abound (otherwise known as teachable moments) in the Scriptures concerning our Lord’s oratorical engagements. In many of those incidents you find the persons querying Jesus while on their knees. The Syro-Phoenician woman of Mark 7:26 was in that posture when she approached Jesus. In spite of His disciples she asked Him for a word that would cleanse her daughter’s body of the horrific demons that possessed her. In that same chapter Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, another one who came on bended knee, begged Jesus to come to his home and speak a word over his daughter who lay at the point of death. Scripture also tells us that Jesus spoke to fig trees, raging storms, tidal waves, fish in the sea, birds in the air, issues of blood, mountains and lunch boxes!

John Maxwell, a noted best selling author of leadership books, a pastor and public speaker says that once you learn the Law of E. F. Hutton you will never have any trouble figuring out who the real honest leaders are. He goes on to say don’t listen to the claims of the person professing to be the leader. Instead, just watch the reactions of the people around him who he/she is leading. In Jesus’ case, crowds flocked to follow Him. The Sanhedrin wanted to know by what authority did this “E. F. Hutton” speak. To their chagrin they begin to realize that they had lost their leadership status to a tall stern figure dressed in a similar long white belted tunic with a tasseled prayer shawl draped over his head. A person with ‘out of this world‘ authority!

What I learned from my having a ‘little talk‘ with Jesus about my problem was this: If you believe you have been given the distinct title of E. F. Hutton let’s examine the real picture. Would others classify you as an honest and sincere person who studies to show him/herself approved and well versed in the topic of discussion? Do you walk the walk as well as talk the talk? Do you nurture others and help build their confidence and stimulate their growth? What about your faith walk and your ability to let go and let God? Do you share your life’s experiences or do you lead in the abstract? What about your prayer life? And do we dare mention fasting? Jesus did all these things because He knew that by exercising self discipline He could better focus on the resources that are available in our God. So my advice to you is ‘take a knee‘ and then take a stand for Him!

Something else to point out when learning the Law of E. F. Hutton is that it is a generous law. Mr. Maxwell says that when you are starting in a new leadership position and you’re not recognized as the leader yet, don’t let that bother you. The real test of leadership is not where you start out. It is where you end up. Jesus dealt with that subject over 2000 years ago. (And just look where He has ended up. He LIVES to this day and forever more.)

In Mark 9:38-49 it basically says that the disciples found persons outside their inner circle acting in a leadership capacity expounding the very beliefs that Jesus Christ was preaching. Therefore, and unwisely, the disciples forbade them to speak. Jesus said forbade them not…for he who is not against us, is on our side. But whoever causes one of these little ones…to stumble it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he was thrown into the sea. Pretty good advice, don’t you think?

So in closing, I say to the lay persons in the church, the willing-workers, the philanthropists, the dreamers, the unsung heroes and all the ‘average’ citizens of the Kingdom; as sojourners of the Cross, you are the right and left hands of the ‘Good News’ and it behooves you to become the best ‘leaders’ of your profession of faith that you can be in Christ Jesus. Begin by establishing a track record. It wont be long before you will be able to show signs of past successes. People will believe in you and what you have to say because you deliver. Unlike the company, E. F. Hutton (now debunked), you will be like the Master Teacher and Eternal Leader of all times, Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God! Amen and thank You Jesus for trusting us.

Scripture Lessons: Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Hebrews 13:7

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

God “Allows” A Little Humor Every Now And Then

On October 4, 2018October 4, 2018 By SonjaIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Have you ever smiled in secret and in loving adoration towards God after receiving a divine response to a whimsical prayer request? Well, I have. I have even gone as far as whispering to God these words…”Lord, you’re funny. You really do have a sense of humor.

Some years ago, as a member of a speaker’s bureau class at the public library, our assignment was to compose a five minute recitation on heavenly humor and present it at our next meeting. For my contribution I chose to write on 2 very common superstitions. Of course, I partitioned God for his approval and he gave me a PG rating. So feel free to recite the following story at your next church supper. God really does allow a little clean humor every now and then.


	*SUPERSTITIONS AND THERE ORIGINS* *It is amazing how many of our superstitious ways revolve around death, hell and the grave. Take for example:* *‘The Yawn Reflex’* Today, we believe that it shows good manners to cover your mouth and to say excuse me after a broad and noisy yawn. Well, originally, good manners had nothing to do with it. In the ancient days, it was believed that the Devil made a person yawn so that he could gain access into the body and cause that person grave danger. *If that person is observed yawning he would say excuse me because he knew that yawning was contagious and would cause the second person to yawn,too.Thus putting that person in grave danger.* *So the first yawner would say ‘excuse me’ for putting you in danger. The Hindu people would snap their fingers three times to counter the Devil’s antics.* The Medical doctors today tell us that yawning can be due to sleepiness, exhaustion, shallow breathing or observation. Also, one of the first exercises that a new born baby performs is to stretch and yawn after its body breathes in fresh air. *Medical scientists believe that there is a yawn center in the brain that is activated by our lungs and under certain conditions cause us to yawn.* *‘Now Take Sneezing’* *How many “Gesundheits” does a person get after sneezing? And do you know what it means? Well, it means, “God bless you.”* The custom of asking God’s blessing initiated with early man who believed that the spirit resided in the air and since we breathe air into our heads, it stands to reason that the spirit resided in the head. *A sneeze would accidentally expel the spirit. So a person would ask God to put it back. The act of bowing towards the sneezer was also counter-magic. For it meant, “May your soul not escape.”* *Now imagine being in a room filled with sneezers and yawners. This combination of guests could be fatal.* *Don’t forget, a yawn gave the Devil access into the body and a sneeze could expel your good spirit. Thus leaving your body defenseless.* The spirit of the Devil would be exposed out into the room trying to gain entrance into someone else; Gesundheits being shouted aloud from across the room; some guests bobbing up and down towards the sneezer; and the yawners approaching others and saying I’m sorry, I’m sorry for infecting you. *[What a hilarious scene from an Austin Powers movie!]* (At the close of your presentation, you could leave the stage with a big yawn, cover your mouth and say excuse me. Next, give out a loud sneeze. After the audience responds with ‘Gesundheits’ say…Oh, well.)
	Always remember Isaiah 8:19-20…When they say to you, “Consult the mediums and the spiritists who whisper and mutter,” should not a people consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because they have no dawn.

Scripture Lesson: Isaiah 44:24-25 Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, and the one who formed you from the womb: “I, the LORD, am the Maker of all things; stretching out the heavens by Myself and spreading out the earth all alone; causing the omens of boasters to fail; making fools out of diviners; causing wise men to draw back and turning their knowledge into foolishness.

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

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