Men Of Destiny

Seasons of our Lives!

2009-10-29T11:59:00.004-04:00

Life is Seasonal! There are MANY different seasons that come & go at MANY different stages in our journey. Seasons of friendships, Seasons of adversity, Seasons of growth, Seasons of plenty & Seasons of little, etc. The question is how do we navigate through each unique Season to come out a better person & stay the course so we come through each Season as a survivor. Not regretting or resenting our last Season but learning & growing from it. This should be our objective until the next & new Season comes forth in our lives!

The following are ways to handle & survive the Seasons of life:

1. Realize each Season is just that, a "Season" that will go as quickly as it came!

2. Learn to breathe & take each moment in as it will never pass this way again!

3. Discover what it is your to learn from this Season & how it can make you a better person!

4. Understand & believe "This to shall pass" it's not always gonna stay this way!

5. Believe you will get through this & something better is around the corner!

6. Expect something good to come from each experience that can make you learn & grow!

7. Trust all things are working together for your good even when it's bad at the moment!

8. Act in such a manner that when things change you don't regret anything said or done!

9. Speak what it is you want to see or needs to happen not just what you're seeing at the moment!

10. Live with no regrets, you can never change the past only set up your future!

I hope this information will be useful in helping you get through your present Season until your new Season arrives. Keep your chin up, life is seasonal & things will change, I promise!

What Happens when we all stand together!

2009-09-10T13:59:00.005-04:00

1 John 3: 18 says, "Little children, let us not LOVE in WORD or in TONGUE but in DEED & in TRUTH." Meaning we must stand, unite & join together as unto the Lord & do His will. Not just sit on the sideline of life & talk spiritual jargon. Love not in "word" but in "deed." To answer the call to not only DO SOMETHING for Him, but doing it together under & through the structure He has established on earth-His Church!

God is calling His body to stand together! It's when we answer that call that He can fulfill His work & plan for not only our individual lives but His plan for us corporately. And as we join together we have a greater impact on our community. Unity always results in the fulfillment of dreams & blessings. As being in dis-unity always results in strife, misunderstanding & eventually hurt. Thus it will alienate us away from God's purpose & plans for us & His body.

When we all stand together the Kingdom of God advances & the Kingdom of darkness is defeated! I guess if we all truly understood & believed we are in & part of a God's Kingdom on earth then we would stand together. By standing I mean supporting, coming together & moving in unity with one another. To do that would mean we move forward as an unstoppable force, having an impact in & on our homes, our families, our cities & the world. There the blessing of God would be!

Instead we have personal agendas, ulterior motives, selfish lifestyles & earthly Kingdoms that we are building. Each coming apart doing their own thing, their own way, in their own timing. Thus God's Kingdom suffers, where it could be stronger, could be better, could be doing more but due to lack of God's people standing together it is weaker, poorer & doing less. The result of NOT standing together!!

We need to ask ourselves where are we in doing our part in promoting the Kingdom so His will can be done & His will be accomplished on earth. Are we sanding together in deed & in truth or just in word & in tongue? One more time I encourage you to take your place, find your spot, do your part & help advance the greatest cause on the earth today, God's Kingdom. We cannot do that when we don't stand together!

The New Wineskin!

2009-08-05T14:38:00.002-04:00

Jesus said "And no one puts new wine into an old wineskin....but new wine must be put into new wineskins & both will be useful. And no one having drunk old wine, immediately desires new, for he says, the old is better." Lk.5:37-39

"New Wine" here represents the Holy Spirit & "Wineskins" represent vessells. 2 Cor. 4:7 "We have this treasure in earthen vessells that the POWER of God may be of God and not us." We are vessells that are supposed to carry the wine, Holy Spirit, of God. The New wine is what was prophesied by Joel & preached by Peter (Joel 2 & Acts 2) for the church to operate in today.

Not only is it way passed time for believers to take the new wineskin but it is the mantle that we as the body must embrace, walk in & carry out. With this new wineskin will come new ways...change. The greater the new wineskin the greater the ripping of the old. If God is changing things, leading in a new direction or it even seems messing things up, He might just be trying to form a new wineskin in you.

At first no one likes the change, the difference, the new wineskin but wants to hold on to the old, the familiar, that which we are comfortable in & with. Let God have His way, accept the new wineskin, embrace His direction, receive fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Don't just be a part of the move of God, start the move of God.

To many believers today have a form of Godliness but deny its power- the Holy Spirit! Simply receive fresh oil & new wine today by asking, seeking, getting, setting under a spout where the Glory & new wine is being poured out. Drink freely & drink as much & as often as you can!!!

If your found empty, dry & barren it will be because you didn't allow God to give you a new wineskin. My prayer & hope is we all walk in the new & enjoy it together.

Sorry, I can't Hear you!

2009-07-01T11:53:00.008-04:00

I am amazed today at how many believers talk christain jargon without any committment to a lifestyle of obedience. The following is a reality check, so please read with precaution. So many today have fallen into the trap of believing if they know how to say the right thing that sounds spiritual then they are okay. Isn't that really a form of spiritual pride? Trying to appear to be something you're not or worse yet talking like something your not? Isn't that called deception. Talking one way & acting another?

Just because we can use christian terms or words & sound spiritual doesn't mean we are spiritual. And by spiritual I mean "right" with God. Lukewarm christains today have fallen prey to the lie that if they use certain words & terms (i.e. love, grace, forgiveness, compassion, etc.) then they are right with God. It all sounds so good but we must put action to our words. We are called to not just talk it but walk it!!! Faith without works is....

God requires obedience in our lives in every area. With our time, talent, tithe & our talk! Without obedience in these & other areas we are in disobedience! God cannot & has never blessed disobedience no matter how spiritual we talk & try to sound. It would be better to be mute & obedient than be able to have a discourse of conversation with flattering words & be in disobedience. Hello, Anybody out there?

Today make sure that your "christian terminology lines up with your christian theology." Do more than try & sound spiritual, check your spirit, make sure your walking out & in obedience by serving the Lord in line with His word to the fullest & not just trying to impress everyone to make them think you're okay with your spiritual rhetoric!

We must have christains who are walking the talk & living it out so the church can not only be the church but do what the church is called to do. Sorry I can't hear you, your actions are speaking louder than your words.

Friends & Frien-enemies!!!

2009-06-01T17:50:00.008-04:00

If you have ever had any type of relationship with anyone then you will recognize these truths. In each of our lives there comes many different kinds & levels of friends, friendships, & frien-enemies. I will explain. Acquaintances that come into our lives, bonds we make with people, some stronger than others but all having influence upon us. Some for the good, some for the bad and some for us to learn & grow from. Some we cherish & some we wish we had never made. But all fall into the following categories:

1. Casual friends- people we know & associate with through work, church, schools, our neighbors, etc. with no immediate bearing on our lives. Social acquaintances that we can live with or without.

2. Friends for a reason- people who come into our lives we need at certain times for different reasons. To learn from, be challenged by, grow from or to teach us things we would not have other wise learned. These are important though we don't value or nurture them enough.

3. Friends for a season-people who we meet, get to know, might like, even fall in love with & enjoy. Then just as quickly as they came into our lives they go out. Sometimes for the good, sometimes for the bad. They can be hurtful yet meaningful at the same time. But mostly, after their purpose, we need or are ready for them to go & they do! Don't curse these but learn from them & grow.

4. Frien-enemies- people who claim to be our friends but when times get tough or something is said or done they don't like, not only are they out of there but they go out doing, saying & causing great hurt. These people always try & bring you down to their level in many ways. Accusing you of the very things they are or do. They are not & have never been a friend. Typically with you for what they can get & how it benefits them & when that's over, their gone. Somehow leaving a dent in your life with you asking the question why? But you go on!

5. Covenant Friends- people that come into our lives who are true & dear to us. We learn from them, are challenged by them, love them & hold them dear to our hearts & lives. Family members, spouses, our children or dear people who you really love & they really love you! These people are sent from God & stick by you in thick & then. Rare but to be treasured!

The saying is true, if you are a true friend, you will have true friends. And to him who shows himself friendly, he himself will also have many friends. Pray & ask God to make you a true friend, to give you true friends & to forgive you if you have ever been a frien-enemy.

Nothing else can touch us so deeply, move us so compassionately, wound us so quickly or teach us so greatly. Be a friend today because I can assure you, someone needs it!

What to do when facing a Mountain?

2009-05-06T11:05:00.005-04:00

Wouldn't it be great if we never faced challenges or had problems. The Bible says it rains on the just & unjust. Meaning everyone will have tough times. Ever face a Mountain? Stood in front of what seemed to be an insurmountable situation? We all have times when we're standing at the bottom of the mountain & don't know how we are going to get over, around or through it. If this is you then I pray the following gives you renewed strength, desire & hope!!!

God told Abraham to go up the mountain while carrying his promise, his son Isaac, & sacrifice that which he had waited on, hoped for & so desired. (Gen. 22) That's what a mountain is, something that challenges our heart, stands in the way of what we want & cost us to not have what we desire. It demands we pay a price sometimes we're not willing to pay. But Abraham obeyed God & faced the mountain by proceeding up it with sacrifice in hand.

That is why God allows Mountains, to work out our obedience, trust & growth. What Abraham didn't realize, just like with us, is that while he was going up one side of the mountain God was coming up the other with the answer & solution to his situation. "And there God provided a ram in the thicket for Abraham to sacrifice" (Gen. 22:13) Interesting How God didn't provide until he had faced, climbed & fulfilled obedience to the command. The same God expects that from you & I today facing our mountains!

If your facing a mountain today take courage in these truths from God's word about YOU-

1. "He shall Perfect that which concerns YOU!" Ps. 138:8

2. "He will keep that which YOU have committed unto Him!" 2 Tim. 1:12

3. "He knows the plans He has for YOU, to bless & prosper you!" Jer. 29:11

4. "He has ordered YOUR steps!" Ps. 37:23

5. "He who began a good work in YOU will complete it!" Phil. 1:6

And know this, behind every mountain is a breakthrough!! Jesus said, "If you believe, you can say to this mountain be thou removed & cast into the sea & it will be done." Praying with & for you today that your mountain be removed!!!

The Love Of God!

2009-04-05T17:13:00.004-04:00

There is a verse in one of my favorite songs, entitled "The love of God" that goes like this- "If we with with ink the ocean fill & were the sky of paper made, and every blade of grass on earth a pen & every man a writer by trade. To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry, nor could the scroll contain the whole though it was stretched from sky to sky"

I love watching His love for us in action. I see it in His Word, His people, His house, His ways. His love is understanding, compassionate, patient, gentle, forgiving, empowering & enabling. We all experience this love on a daily basis. I am thankful that when I could not get to God, He got to me. And when every one else saw a sinner, through His love He saw a saint. His love for us is overwhelming, I can scarcely take it in.

I saw His love manifest recently when He reached out and saved a man's soul. Tears of repentance flowed, years of hurt, pain, abuse, bondage washed away as God's love replaced it with healing, forgiveness, freedom & cleansing. His love is a powerful agent for our troubled souls.

If today you are troubled, heavy in spirit, lost or confused, call upon His love and receive it freely. He is waiting to pour His love out upon you, He is no respecter of persons, so whatever you have done, wherever you have been, no matter how distant you feel. Take His love for you, it has never changed, remains the same & is waiting for you.

This month as we celebrate His resurrection, take joy in knowing it was for you He arose & through this single act provided everything you need. Reach up to God & bask in His love because He is reaching down to you. You will experience a love that is real & everlasting. "For God so loved you He gave His only son" WOW, I'm walking in that love!!!

Witchcraft in the pew?

2009-03-05T12:48:00.008-05:00

In 23 years of ministry I would like to be able to say I have seen it all, but as you know, our journey with Christ has many layers always revealing & learning more. Not to go to deep but the following is of vital importance in the church world today, especially for every true believer.

The scripture teaches us in 2 Cor. 2:11 "that we are to not be ignorant of His devices, lest Satan should take advantage of us." If you're like me, when we think of "witchcraft" we think of a haggard old lady with big hat, broom & wart on her nose. But the Bible teaches about many forms of witchcraft all in relationship to the believer. Eph. 6:18 "For we do not wrestle against flesh & blood but against principalities, powers, rulers of darkness of this age, spiritual host of wickedness in the heavenly places."

For the child of God witchcraft usually starts in the form of some type of rebellion, our old nature rising up becoming defensive, dissatisfied, disgruntled or more. 1 Sam. 15:23 says "for rebellion is as the sin of witch craft..." that's why we must not be ignorant of His devices. The spirit of Witchcraft comes in many forms in the church today ending with many results. For example, a Jezebel Spirit that goes against Godly authority & trys to ruin it's reputation, causing unnessary questioning in other people's mind. An undealt with "spirit of anger" causing hurt & offense with whoever it comes in contact with. The list can be long; unforgiveness, pride, arrogance, religious in nature but far from God & His true power! Remember the story of the girl in Acts 16:16, whose MOTIVES were impure & the disciples (who had God's authority) rebuked her & cast it out, read it & know your heart!

The following characteristics are some of the results of this Spirit operating or attacking you:

1. Isolation- to get you off the beaten path, away from others who can see & speak truth in your life, to separate you from what is right, even when justifiable. That's why the scripture says,"Do not forsake the assembling of yourselves together." We need each other for iron to sharpen iron!

2. Chaos- lack of peace, questions, doubts, fears, confusion & turmoil. The Bible says, "God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all the churches." 1 Cor. 14:33

3. Flattery- one moment critical of someone, then the next, that fake flattery to get them in your grip. False praise with hypocrisy to get you on its side. " A flattering tongue works ruin." Prov. 26:28

4. Control- always having to be right, everyone on your side, building a case. This leads to manipulation of others to get your way! End results are envy, strife & disunity."Mark the man who causes division among you & have nothing to do with him." Rom. 16:17

5. False Humility- trying to get others to feel sorry for you, sulking, victim mentality & even turning on the tears to try & get pity. This is pride masked in spiritual immaturity! The end result, failure, shame & destruction! "Pride comes before a Fall." Prov. 11:2 & 16:18

6. Slander- talking about others, gossip, spreading lies, & speaking about other believers. Witchcraft always tears down, God always builds up! "Whoever spreads slander is a fool." Prov. 10:18b

Other results of this Spirit operative or evident in your life- continual sickness, emotionalism, super spiritual, personal agendas, fatigue, bondages, and the like. Check yourself & make sure you are not a part or a conduit for these things. "For in the last days even the elect will be deceived." The bottom line of all witchcraft- deception! What to do? Repent, renounce, bind, claim the blood of Jesus, walk in humility & get restored to Gods word, His house & His people, HIS WAY!!!

Gal. 5:1 (AMP) " In freedom Christ has made us free (& liberated us) stand fast then, not hampered and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery which you have once put off."

How BIG is your Heart?

2009-02-03T14:23:00.003-05:00

Recently I have seen advertised a new reality show where people are tested to see what they would do when given an opportunity to help someone in need. Would they follow their heart & do what's right or just ignore the situation & continue on with their business? Truth is, each one of us are faced with this on a daily basis as we encounter people throughout our day. And not just strangers but even people we know, love & live with. Do we offer a helping hand, encouraging word, loving touch or miss out on so many God given chances because were so focused on ourselves? True love is to look beyond your self!

February is a month of love, recognizing those in our lives we love the most. There is a day set aside this month just for that, a box of chocolates is nice but I need to follow my heart & show love more than just on a set day. Because of the Love I've been shown, given & experienced how can I not give more love than is expected of me? It's a mandate that I & we each must answer.

To all the men, especially this month, I want to exhort you to answer the call to "Love your wife as Christ loves the church" Eph. 5:25. What a challenge, what a concept, what a calling. Why is it we can follow our heart & help others we don't know yet not love those most dearest to us that God has entrusted to our care? I'm challenged by that scripture & need grace to answer that call!

However I'm determined to have a BIG heart, do unto others, and try my hardest to love those around me & specifically those God has entrusted to me. "You can have all the gifts, operate in great faith but if you don't have love you are nothing" 1 Cor. 1:13

Not just this month but every month this year have a BIG heart & choose love every chance you're given. After all it should be a natural overflow of the love you've been given. Go BIG so you can give LOVE. How BIG is your heart? Hopefully big enough to show real true love, try it today & make it a habit, your reward will be great both here & there!

3 Things we need this New Year!

2009-01-03T15:31:00.010-05:00

Reversal, Recovery & Restoration! Three things we need to happen in our lives this new year for us to walk in all God has promised! I'm putting a demand on all three so that I might possess & walk in what is really already mine.

Reversal-

When Esther appeared before the King she needed God to reverse the wicked plans of Haman so that she & the Jews might live. She put a demand on the King & it worked! This year I need some plans & schemes of the enemy to be reversed & the traps He has set for me to catch himself! I'm asking God to reverse any & all plans the enemy has set this year for my demise, against my family, finances & future! Somebody shout REVERSAL!!!!

Recovery-

When King David ask the Lord if he should pursue the enemy at Ziklag & would he recover all, God said, "Pursue, overtake & you will recover all" There must be something that rises up in us this year with a fighting spirit that will enable us to recover all the enemy has prematurely put His hands on & tried to take from us. Devil, I'm getting all my stuff back & even the spoil that wasn't mine. More & then some!! The word says, "He recovered it ALL!"

Restoration-

When the widow woman returned after the seven year famine as instructed by the prophet Elisha & appeared before the King, Gehazi was there to testify on her behalf & she was restored her home & land with interest! This year ask God to have a messenger at the king's table when you get there to speak on your behalf, the scripture tells us "Christ is seated at the right hand of God making intercession for us" Claim all that is yours with interest, the famine of 08 is over & it's time to be restored!!!

I pray these thoughts are encouraging & inspiring enough to make you declare this new year that you will see the plans of your enemy REVERSED, so that you can RECOVER all & be RESTORED what was promised you in God's word. Touch two people & say, "THIS IS MY YEAR!!!"

This Holiday- Extend a Helping Hand!

2008-12-02T15:17:00.005-05:00

Whether we like it or not, the Holidays are here, the Christmas season is upon us. So we ask ourselves how can this year be different, more enjoyable & meaningful? I challenge you to extend & offer a Helping hand to someone else & see for yourself the joy that comes when you do for others. So Extend a Helping Hand!
Need a couple of good reasons to do so-remember the scripture says "to whom much is given much is required" & "to him who shows mercy (act of undeserved kindness) mercy will be shown." As you look for opportunities to extend a helping hand not only can it make a difference in someones life but it can effect your destiny as well. I believe the old saying is true, "what goes around comes around!"

Top Ten ways you can extend a helping hand this Holiday Season:

1. Forgive a grievance & set yourself & the other person free!

2. Show mercy to someone who you think is not deserving & release a grudge!

3. Do a random act of kindness for a total stranger & show God's love!

4. Give someone an unexpected, thoughtful gift or gesture & expect nothing in return!

5. Pay for someones groceries in line in front of you & glean from their awe!

6. Offer to help out someone in need & expect nothing in return!

7. Find a homeless shelter or feeding line & get involved by volunteering or serving!

8. Give someone an anonymous gift card for dinner out!

9. Buy a bag of everyday needed items, toiletries, etc. & leave on a Single mom's doorstep!

10. Give a smile, kind word of encouragement to someone you usually don't speak to!

None of these things will bring you stardom here but the one who keeps the records will surely reward you both here & there. Go ahead, offer someone a helping hand today, they may need it more than you could ever imagine. And it will make your Holidays alot brighter & blessed!

WHAT? ME PASSIVE?

2008-11-04T15:24:00.006-05:00

Passive-Definition-"to be inactive, lethargic, of no opinion, resisting demands by delay or procrastinating." This spirit of passivity that has settled on the Body of Christ today is unbelievable. Succumbing to this condition makes you indifferent, apathetic to not only your responsibility in the Kingdom of God but what is happening with the KOG!

Passive Christians are uninterested, unmoved & mediocre to the things of God. Therefore missing out on what is one of the most strategic times in the church world today. A time of positioning, awakening, empowering & blessing. God is raising up His Remnant on the earth today to accomplish His will, work & word! He's preparing the church & world for the greatest outpouring & move we have ever seen or experienced. Which will be a set up for His return!

The enemy of our soul has been masterful at lulling Christ's body to sleep so he can execute his plans. Meanwhile the passive christian/church is asleep, distracted, bitter, or in bondage, exhausted building their own earthly kingdoms while Christendom takes a blow because God's people are PASSIVE!!!

In 22 years of ministry I can say this issue is greater than it's ever been. The cold get colder & the hot get hotter, both not being able to tolerate the other! Producing a dysfunctional, disunified body thus defeated body! It starts with becoming passive & then staying there. Rev. 3:16 "I would that you be rather hot or cold but because you are Lukewarm I will spew you out of my mouth."

God doesn't want our passivity! It's decision time people. We must wake from our slumber, rise to our call, take our positions & prioritize the things of God! Our current events are demanding it. God is building His church, so make sure your not a representation of the picture above! Let me know your thoughts & if you choose not to be passive! Touch two people and say, "WAKE UP"

Mistakes Men Make!

2008-10-08T10:38:00.006-04:00

Recently I was asked to speak at our men's mentoring graduation service for all the men who have been in the program all year & completed it. I will share along these lines & pray it is encouraging, insightful & helpful to you as well-

TEN MISTAKES MEN MAKE:

1. They think it's all about them- men must realize the "other" person factor & look at the bigger picture!

2. They don't plan for the future- men must stop just thinking of today & plan for tomorrow!

3. They have a tendency to neglect their role- men must accept they are the leader & lead!

4. They want & expect others to serve them- men don't want to serve but love being served!

5. They shy away from their authority- men must move in the authority they have been given as husbands, fathers & covering!

6. They wait for permission before leading- men are natural leaders & must lead then others will follow!

7. They are visually driven- men cannot be driven only by sight but must learn to follow the heart!

8. They tend to only see the temporary- men must look to the future & not focus only on the immediate!

9. They live in & for the moment- men react without thinking of the actions their choice will have!

10. They are prideful & lean on their own strength- men think they don't need anyone & can do it all themselves!

Ask the Lord to give you insight & help in these pitfalls men seem to live in & overcome them so we might become the Super man that God created for us to live as. Leave me a comment & let me know if this hits home with any men today!

The Call to Consistency!

2008-09-16T10:51:00.005-04:00

There's alot to be said for the one who is consistent! They are dependable, trustworthy & seem to produce more than those who are not. Consistent means you can be counted on, to be there when needed, to not let down or disappoint. To remain focused, see the larger picture, be a team player that produces. Unlike those who are not consistent; disappointing, undependable, clueless, distracted & usually self-absorbed!

Today more than ever people need consistency. One definition is "faithfulness in actions" Our children need consistent parenting, our relationships need consistent commitment, our homes need consistent love, our friendships need consistent attention, the world needs consistent examples & the church needs consistent Christians!!! Those who will be faithful in there actions, unwavering, dependable, that can be counted on when needed.

The difference between someone who is consistent & someone who is not is like night & day. They are worlds apart in their thinking, doing & even receiving. The mental state is just at opposite ends of the spectrum. Simply one "gets it" & the other does not!

I know today, right now, more than ever, God is requiring us to be consistent like never before. God can never complete the task at hand unless His children are consistent! We are told in scripture to "be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord! " Ask yourself that question and determine if you are consistent? faithful? Simply, can you be counted on? Unless the church gets back the right ingredients of consistency we can never move into all God has for us today. Who will join me in making a new commitment & vow to being consistent? So God can depend on us to be His church & build His church. If not believers, then who? If not now, then when?

Challenge yourself to be CONSISTENT, someones depending on you!

Press on!

2008-09-05T10:41:00.006-04:00

Today I am pressing on! It's not always easy to keep pressing on. Sometimes when you take a step forward and God meets you there the enemy always seems to rear his ugly head to try & get you to quit! Sometimes pressing on means everybody is not going with you. Some people don't want to go forward but choose to remain in their neutral position. Sometimes not pressing on would be easier & seemingly better than to press on. I've learned pressing on isn't popular, glamorous or even enjoyable, so sometimes you may just need to sit but never can you quit! Keep pressing!

Why should we keep pressing on? Because it's the only way to get to higher ground, it's the only way to move forward, it's the only way to experience new heights, it's the only way to explore the unknown, & it's the only way to overcome!!! Also & most important I've discovered that somebody on the other side is waiting for you to get there. You & I must press on for those who are waiting for us to come, bring help, offer hope, give an encouraging word, touch & love them & show them by pressing on it can be done!!!

The world says give up, quit, don't do it. The apathetic say why, what's the point? And those who have quit beckon us to join their ranks, but I'm pressing on! I'm pressing on if I have to go alone, I'm pressing on if I have to go sick, I'm pressing on if I go against the flow, & I'm pressing on because there's nothing for me if I stay where the devil is trying to keep me from going!!

Life is hard with its ups & downs, so rest if you must but never quit! Paul who often had obstacles & reasons to quit, said in Phil. 3:14 " I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." If you feel like quitting then there definitely is a reason to press on, you have a prize waiting for you if you will just keep going! Everyone who is pressing on leave me a comment to let me know you're pressing on to receive the prize. Today I'm pressing on!

Somebody's watching you!

2008-08-12T14:11:00.006-04:00

I love to look at my kids while they are sleeping. Not stare at them for hours upon end but check in on them & see that they're fine. It gives me a great feeling to know they're resting, clean, full, content & safe. I love watching they're faces twitch, eyes move & hear their deep sleep sounds of resting comfortably. It sometimes is the best time with them when they don't even know I'm there checking on them & looking at them. What a wonder they are to me as God has given them life through my blood. Simply Amazing!

I am reminded that the scripture teaches us that this is how God is with us. Ps. 34:15 says "His eyes are on his children" John said in Rev 1:14 "and His eyes are like a flame of fire." Sometimes when we don't even realize it, feel it or see it, then this is when He is watching us the most. We are His children, precious to Him & He delights in meeting our needs. How comforting to know we have a God who watches over us His word to perform! He knows the plans & purposes He has for us. Jer. 29:11.

I love the passage in Luke 12: 22-28, how if God clothes the fields & feeds the sparrows then how much more value are we to Him & He will take care of our needs. The old church Hymn says, "If His eye is on the sparrow then I know He watches me." How awesome to know right now, right where you're at, God the giver of life is watching you, because He has given you life through His blood. Again, Simply Amazing!

So take heart & be encouraged! He has not forgotten you or left you. He is there, watching you, checking in on you even when you don't realize it. Somebody's watching you & that somebody is your Heavenly Father & He loves you! His eyes are always on His children.

It's Time for PROMOTION!

2008-08-04T16:19:00.003-04:00

The Scripture says in Psalm 75:6 "that promotion comes from no where else but the Lord & he is the one who sets you up for promotion." To receive & walk in your next level or promotion from God there are postures you must be willing to embrace to accept & move forward in all God has for your new & next season. These postures will assure your promotion from the Lord!

Must be willing to:

1. FOLLOW GOD INTO THE UNKNOWN- God told Abraham in Gen. 12:1 "Get out of this familiar place to a land I will show you" To move into promotion you must be willing to leave the old for the new & navigate into uncharted waters in the Lord. And there He will meet you!

2. SACRIFICE- God called Abraham to sacrifice his greatest treasure, Issac, only to provide him with the needed sacrifice. But we to must be willing to sacrifice our "greatest blessing" of our previous season to partake of our next!

3. ENDURE THE PROCESS OF PRUNING- Jesus said in John 15:2 "Every branch in me that bears fruit I prune that it may bear more fruit" Sometimes God will allow you to go back before you go ahead so you will bear more fruit in your new season!

4. REMAIN CHILDLIKE- Matt. 18:3-4 says "we must become like a little child to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven" Simple trust & obey like a child dependent on thier Father for everything!

5. PRAY & BELIEVE- in 1 Kings 18:41-45 Elijah prepared for what He could not see. We must move forward in faith as it is done!

6. MOVE IN GREATER WISDOM & DISCERNMENT!- James 1:5-6 says "Ask God for wisdom & he will give it" At your new level you must act with a greater sense of God's wisdom!

7. GIVE FEAR NO PLACE- Is. 41:10 tells us "to not fear because He will help, uphold & strengthen us." When moving forward fear cannot be in operation only confidence in the Lord!

These 7 postures if walked in will cause you to walk out your promotion. Be expecting & willing, God is getting ready to promote you! Leave me a comment & let me know what area I can agree with you to get you in your next level.

Go ahead, JUMP!!!

2008-07-16T10:34:00.004-04:00

Recently I had an experience of a life time, something I always wanted to do & at 40+ years finally got the opportunity to accomplish it, what a great feeling! And I not only experienced it but got to watch my son @ the wise old age of 8 enjoy it as well together. It was white water rafting down the Nantahala river gorge in the mountains of North Carolina, what a rush, literally!!! But the amazing part is after conquering that experience we found, as we would say in the south, a swimming hole. We spent four hours conquering rocks, slides & cliffs, where we discovered that a cape would have just got in the way (we felt like batman) (-:

It started out just climbing rocks, then getting wet, then sliding down rocks into the water, each accomplishment leading to the next daring event until finally Austin said I want to jump off the cliff into the water (this from a boy who last year wouldn't go down the slide at a Disney pool) his inspiration was watching others do it & survive. With the bold confidence any father would have, I shuddered... "Sure lets do it" knowing he would not take me up on the replied offer. Thus began our ascend up the cliff by a rope tied to a tree, hmmm... who tied that knot anyway?

There we stood at what seemed to be Mount Everest looking down into the waters of our destiny. I knew if we hesitated we wouldn't do it, so I grabbed his hand & we jumped, did you get that? We jumped off the side of a 40 ft. cliff down into the water, only to come up having overcome the fear of leaping into that unknown. It was a greater rush than the white water rafting. It felt so invigorating. I still can't believe we did it!

I believe that's how our walk with Christ is supposed to be lived, new levels, new experiences, new opportunities experienced in God, next levels of our faith being challenged & strengthened. In Matt. 14:29 Jesus said to Peter, Go ahead Jump! Get out of the boat, come, walk on water, defy the natural, step out, live life, and Peter did and walked on water! What is it God is asking you to do, what opportunity, experience? Life is an adventure, live it! There will always be an excuse, reason you can't, couldn't, shouldn't but go ahead, JUMP! Get out of your boat & defy the odds! This opportunity God is giving may never pass by you again! So whatever it is you're looking at today, GO AHEAD JUMP! Leave me a comment about your cliff experience or how God is asking you to jump. And in case your wondering, no that's not me jumping in the picture even though that looks like my body (-:

Squirrels are not to be trusted!

2008-06-27T10:56:00.004-04:00

Recently someone made this statement and surprisingly they were being serious. They really felt squirrels are not to be trusted, like they are out to get us or have a secret plan to overthrow the world and create a Squirrel Kingdom and all humans work and collect nuts for them.... weird! Maybe I don't relate to this because growing up my uncle had a pet squirrel that he had raised as a pet from a baby and it was the sweetest little thing that would play with all the cousins when we got together. I personally think squirrels are one of Gods cutest little creations. So more Power to the squirrels!!!

Today I see religious people being like this, just because they don't understand something, can't relate to something or have never seen something, they are fearful & intimated by it, therefore they write it off as evil or bad. Not to be trusted. That's exactly what happened in Jesus day among the religious leaders concerning Christ & this new move of God that was among them & because they did not understand or embrace it, they crucified Him! Thinking it would somehow bring it to an end because they disapproved of it. Unbelievable that mistrust, fear & lack of embracing the new caused them to, as Jesus said Himself, miss their moment!

Alot of that is still going on in the church world today. God is on the move, His Spirit being poured out, waves of His Glory coming forth with new signs & wonders following. But because it's not packaged the way we thought or it's different than what we expected or God didn't birth it through us or our church we judge it, are critical of it & MISS the blessing God is trying to send us!

The Move of God that is happening right now is so "out of the box" it doesn't even have a box! God is outpouring His presence in new dimensions and it is glorious! Listen up.. don't be so religious, spiritually blind & undiscerning that you miss your moment. Get it all while the getting is good, some for now & some for later. Let your hearts cry be more Lord, more of your Glory!

Don't miss this fresh new move of God being released to His true bride today simply because you don't understand it or it's out of the box. Embrace it, move in it & be transformed! I speak on behalf of all squirrels and every church having an outpouring today, they are to be trusted! Touch three people and say GO GOD!!!! Leave me a comment and let me now your thoughts on squirrels & this new outpouring from God. \o/

What can an Army Do?

2008-06-13T15:14:00.007-04:00

The scripture says, "If one can send a thousand to flight, then two ten thousand." There is such power in agreement! Again say the scriptures, "If two will touch and agree asking anything in my name that I will do." How much stronger are we when we come together for the same purpose. Today God is needing His Bride to come together for the hour that is at hand, lay aside their petty differences, let go of their past wounds, and get up and go on with the work at hand!
If you ever are at war you must have complete confidence & trust with the people you are fighting with. The assurance your back is covered and others are willing to lay down their lives for yours & vice verse. "No man hath greater love than this then to lay down His life for another." Now that's love! What you cannot have is someone stabbing you in the back that's supposed to be covering it. What a tragedy that this happens today in the Body of Christ more than not. We must stand together if we are going to fight & win this present battle against the darkness.
I saw this manifested recently while attending the Florida Outpouring in Lakeland. Eight thousand people pursuing the face of God in petition & worship, receiving & commanding the enemy to leave and calling forth the Blessings of God. Results- signs & wonders, real miracles proven before your eyes not just in theory or speech. There is power in an army of one mind & one purpose in unity before God.
Think of Gideon in Judges chapter 7, God had to subtract from him before He could multiply him. Get his army down to a group of hungry, desperate warriors willing to pay the price for victory! That is what God is doing today in the modern day church. Putting together His righteous remnant & arming them for war! The weak & faint hearted will not last, those critical & causing dis-unity will not make it! "For there the Lord commands the blessing, where brethren dwell together in unity." There is power in an army that stands together!
So ask yourself are you promoting the army of God or hindering it? If you're not pursuit of the Fathers face doing your part with all your might then you might want to get in on the winning team and find your place today! God is on the move, His army is advancing, He is taking ground & His Glory is being revealed. Are you part of THIS, HIS Army?

Someone is waiting for you!

2008-05-23T10:34:00.005-04:00

Often times in life we miss our opportunity to be a blessing to someone else because of the unexpected things life can throw our way, which can nurture our fears, insecurities & lead to obstacles in our path. When in reality if we will learn to use the things life throws at us to strengthen us it only becomes a stepping stone into our destiny. The very thing that tried to hinder you, when placed in God's hands, can then catapult you into ALL that God has for you. Understand there will always be naysayers, haters & jealousy of what & where God is taking you. People, who because they're not doing anything or going anywhere, don't want you to do anything or go anywhere. I've had my season with that group & I'm still shaking myself free from them today. You must do the same in Jesus name!

The reason we must navigate through these things is because there is someone on the other side of it who needs your help, that awaits your manifestation. That must have a deposit of what God has put inside of you. The saying goes "We must go through it to get to it because someone on the other side is waiting for you!" HOW TRUE THIS IS!

Press through the storms of life, the Sun does shine again. Plow over every hindrance, your test will become a testimony. Shake yourself free from negative people who curse you and get with positive people who bless you. We have to do this because someone somewhere needs not only you but the gifting & deposits God has given you so you can pour it out on them.

Forgetting those things which are behind (rather that be people, groups, memories, mistakes & the like) and reaching forward to those things( destinies,opportunities, people, new beginnings) which are ahead." Phil. 3:13

I promise you if you do this there is someone on the other side who needs you and is waiting for you. This picture was taken outside of a new church our ministry, NDIC, just built in Africa. I'm holding the worship leaders children before speaking a blessing over there lives. So many miracles from this trip. Had I quit, given up, lost heart or believed the negative voices Satan tried to use to discourage me & stop me, none of these dreams & desires God put in me would be a reality today! Don't believe the lie but believe the plan God promised you because someone is waiting for you!

IT'S TIME!

2008-05-09T13:01:00.004-04:00

It's time! It's God's time, It's my time, It's your time, It's our time! Touch three people and say, "It's time, it's time, it's time." There are many seasons, times & watches throughout the word of God. A specific time is known as a Kairos moment, certain strategic moment in God. In the scripture we find many instances, experiences & moments when it was someones appointed time to receive or move in God's reward or best for them. This being a strategic, specific Kairos divine assigned & appointed time. This is the time we as the true remnant, Body of Christ, are in. A Set time, an appointed time, a strategic time, a specific time, a divine assigned time, that brings about God's manifested presence, blessing & rewards on our lives. Today is that time!

Do you remember being little and it coming your time to play, go, bat, kick the ball, enjoy the moment of it being your turn. That's the time we are in right now. It's our turn! Time to shine, time to arise, time to receive, time to be promoted, time to have all God has promised. Today God wants you to step up to the plate, take your turn, enjoy the moment, receive His blessing, move in his rewards. It's a Kairos time for His people. A time of outpouring, celebration, harvest & answers!

There are appointed times and seasons for everything under the sun according to the book of Ecclesiastes 3. And just as important is to understand your times, as the sons of Issachar in 1 Chronicles 12:32. So they would know what to do. I want you to really believe this, get it in your spirit. Act like it, talk like it & walk like it. What you expect is what you will get!

I was standing on the platform in Nigeria, Africa looking out on a sea of faces getting ready to minister to the people and their overwhelming needs when I felt the Spirit whisper as He breathed on my neck, "Its time!" Time to move in power & demonstration, time for the word to go forth in power, time for signs and wonders, time for healings, miracles & answers. And as I embraced that truth & moment, moved in that assurance I saw the results of it being someones time in the Lord. What an amazing & awesome God we serve. According to Romans 13:11, Be expecting because it's time!!!

He's Already Provided!

2008-04-20T18:58:00.007-04:00

Many years ago we were youth pastoring about to take our first Senior pastorate and in final details of moving from Orlando to Tampa. My last event with our youth group was a missions trip to Germany. I was there with the team & Carmen was home making preparations for our move. She had located a house she feel in love with & wanted but at that time we were not sure if we could afford it. Every morning the team in Germany had a time of glorious devotions & meeting with God as we prepared for the ministry of the day. In our prayer time we played a CD by Martha Munizzi, and the song "He's already provided." I cannot put into words how that song ministered to me, got me through the day and propelled us into our next level. Upon returning home we got the house Carmen wanted & lived in it for five years before building our own new home & moving into it. God provides!!!

This past month in preparation for returning to Africa for ministry we have been faced with the challenges of going into a Muslim country with the Gospel of Christ. Our visas were quickly granted for our time in Liberia but held up for our Nigerian visas. Understand ALOT of prayer & fasting has gone into this trip. After much travail & going through "the due process" of phone calls, being put on hold & leaving messages we were told it didn't look possible to get the visas before we needed them. Mmmm.... I thought, God will provide!!!

Friday of this last week I cleaned my office thoroughly, a complete trash barrel of "stuff" from my desk, shelves, files, & office. Needless to say the victory was wrought & I prevailed with a CLEAN desk & office. Who knew my desk was a beautiful mahogany wood grain (-: In this process I found an old CD and set it aside to play in my car on the way home. I put the CD in and the first song to come on was "He's already provided" by Martha Munizzi. I was flooded with emotion, faith & tears as I went back in my mind to the prayer room in Germany & took what was mine in the Lord. Faith arose in me as that song ministered to my spirit & then & there I took our visas being granted. We just found out that we will get them by this Thursday. God will provide!!!

It's true He may not come when you want him but He's always on time!!! If you have a need today just know its Okay because everything you need He's already provided!!! ( which by the way is a great song on one of Marths Munizzi's first Cd's) My prayer is you will embrace what He's already provided for you today!

SWIMMING IN THE DEEP!

2008-04-04T11:44:00.004-04:00

Recently, after the first three months of this year flying buy, and busying myself with church life, missions and preparations for Easter services & outreaches, I knew time away with my family was needed. Spending time away with the ones you love is always a good thing! We spent a week at the beach just enjoying each others company, building sand castles, throwing the Frisbee, catching ball, eating bad & the like... when it came to swimming, my son wanted to get in the pool everyday but being really warm enough only one day. When it came time to finally get in, he didn't want to, after begging all week, so naturally as a good father I pushed him in the deep end & dove in after him for a time of "pool fun" (Marco polo, etc.) after playing awhile he said these words, "Dad, I'm glad you pushed me in the deep end!" Ahhh, sweet victory!!!

Also recently I preached a message on "The River of God" challenging all to jump in, get in the flow of God, and swim in the deep end! To be a part of the pool where God is once again troubling the waters, allowing this River of Living Water to flow up & out of us. (Jn. 5:4-7 & 7:37-39)

In Ezekiel 47 verses 3-9 it talks about the three levels of the river that flows from the sanctuary in the new Jerusalem, a biblical picture of the types of believers in the church today:
1.) Ankle Deep- a place where everything is controllable & safe leaving one to only observe the move of God!
2.) Waist Deep- a place where you're comfortable with the move of God but yet still in control and able to get in or out whenever you're ready!
3.) Swimming in it- a place where you are fully engulfed, beyond your control, so deep you're lost in the water & having to swim to keep up!

THIS IS WHERE GOD WANTS HIS CHILDREN- FULL, OVERCOME, ABOUNDING IN HIS GRACE, GOODNESS & GLORY!!!! So today if your not in the deep end of the River of God, swimming in Him, ask your Father to push you in, after swimming with him awhile, you'll thank him for pushing you in! So see you in the deep end & bring your floaties, were gonna be there for awhile!!!!

Life Is Good!

2008-03-14T11:52:00.003-04:00

Be encouraged and know God is moving & blessing on your behalf. Each day is another opportunity to walk in His divine protection, provision & purpose. As we seek Him, He promises to give us the desires of our heart. I am overwhelmed at his goodness as He leads us into all good & perfect spiritual blessings.

I spent the day recently with my son, took in a Yankees game, tackled a cheeseburger the size of a plate, got his ball signed and just spent the day focusing on him, catching ball and enjoying each others presence. Not because I had to but because I wanted to. "If you being mere human know how to give good gifts to your children how much more does your Father desire to give you good gifts" Matthew 7:11. Know that your Fathers heart is to bless you, enlarge & increase you just because he loves you and spending time with you.

As the greatest season of the year is all around us, change is in the air and new beginnings are there for the taking, let God resurrect some of your old things that needs to brought to life again and start enjoying living life to the fullest!! God is blessing & moving, I pray you have ears to hear & eyes to see his goodness all around you. Life is good!