Holy Spirit

Love Honor and Respect

Love Honor and Respect

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Love is a gift from God. The most treasured gift ever. In 1 Corinthians, it says, of all the gifts, Love is the greatest gift. The love we have for our family is an experience worth living. Even in the worst of times, when we aren’t very loving toward one another, there is no other, like the love of family. Our hearts, filled with lingering memories, for each one of them…, tucked away…., in safe keeping. A little miniature home, which reminds us we are relative to each other.

 

But what happens when that feeling becomes questionable?  When we feel unloved…, abandoned even, and the love we once knew, feels as though it has been swallowed by some unforgiving darkness. Where any external glimmer we might have is shadowed by clouds of despair and distrust. Where hope for a stable relationship is gone and the only hope, we have stems from the never-ending unconditional love of God. If we are not careful, despite our faith and the expectations of our Father fixing whatever is needed to repair, the vision of how this came to be, can fill our minds with utter chaos and confusion.

 

The prospects of being unappreciated and loosing that which is familiar is overwhelming. As strong as our faith may be, the lingering sense of betrayal is trying.   The moments we once cherished are painted over in rays of pain, hopelessness, and bewilderment.  No matter, be it the love of a parent, sibling, child, or spouse the struggle is real. It is unfortunate though, when the trouble rest between a man and a woman, for some, it is much easier to relinquish, than say, that of a blood relative. It goes without saying, for they are our blood. And although, in that respect, however apparent, it still would never right the wrong felt in our hearts.

 

We always want our significant others to stand with us through thick and thin, despite the lack of bloodline.  After all, that is what being committed is all about between a man and a woman. It is two strangers committed to becoming one, regardless.  Never treating the other as though they only matter in a contractual sense…abiding by all their demands. Or, never resting on preconceived expectations, as we burden our loved ones with guilt.  Never even, using our hopes and lifelong dreams as an excuse to be uncompromising and distant. And most of all, it is never betraying the other’s trust. But for many of us these situations occur, and we must be strong. It is in times like these God, our father, his Son, and the Holy spirit can become a relative example and force of strength to overcome it all, whatever the circumstance.

 

God’s teachings stress love. His greatest commandment is first to love Him with all our heart, soul and mind (Matthew 22:37). But the second greatest, Jesus teaches, is to love our neighbor as ourselves. None of which are truly relative to us, yet warrant the same love, respect and honor as if they were related. And maybe the reason relationships go astray and lack the tenacity to endure difficult circumstances is because if we are to love our neighbors as ourselves, and we don’t love ourselves, or even know how to love, because we were never shown love when we were younger… then any love would be lost to start.  On the flip side, we cannot seek from others, what we, ourselves fail to give them. Sometimes when a person doesn’t show love, it’s because they are broken. But if God positioned us in this circumstance, it is up to us to act upon his greatest instruction and persevere. I Corinthians 13:7 reads love always protects, always trust, always hopes, and always perseveres. If this is our burden to bear, then so it is until we are released from our calling. God gives us the strength to endure. For all those who are heavy laden, “ May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:5-6 If it’s love … true love…, then there should be nothing which stands between you and the relationship. Just as strong the love for a relative, so should be the true love of your significant other….

 

 

Love, like a seal over our heart which cannot be removed, anchored and stronger than death… The belonging, the passion which burns like fire…. So much so it can not be put out with water, not even if swept away in the deepest river… It can’t even be given away for a price… for it is priceless (Song of Songs 8: 6-7)

 

 

CWB

    The known versus the unknown- “I will not be moved”

    The known versus the unknown- “I will not be moved”

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    When we don’t understand, or have control over certain issues in our life, the depravity lends itself to our innermost being and compels us to display some of our not so better qualities. Babies, out of frustration, resort to tantrums. And adults…, well, we do the same, but on a larger scale. Sort of like the, “Tantrums 102 – Heated discussions” class, where we, unabashedly speak our mind. A study in the human capacity to learn the unhealthy lesson of the stealthy art of debate, mastered and unfortunately, second nature to many, when the need arises. The prayer, ” God give me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change and the courage to change what I can and the wisdom to know the difference”, would be so useful if we all put it to use.

    One tries so hard to except people for their bad side and good. I know I do, since often times I’m preaching to give people the benefit of the doubt. Though, as God, being my teacher, and me, being imperfect, He always shows me areas in my journey where I can step up and be an even better woman. I find me asking myself, why I am so moved by one person’s actions and not the other. And if the reason I am moved is because of what they have done, or how they have behaved, then why am I unmoved by people who behave in the same manner… My mantra to consider people’s experiences of the past, due to it likely explaining their misbehavior in the present is what saves me from many a frustrating moment. The belief guards my heart and keeps me unfrazzled, and unharmed. In Proverbs 4:23, it says your heart reflects who you are as a person.  So, when the heart of the donor is not so pure, or the situation is so ridiculously malign to the point where I am bewildered, I find, my “frazzled” steps in and my “harm” is not too far behind. For here is where my religion is lost, and I become very frustrated. I would like to say in both situations, I am not scared. But I cannot. To different degrees, it all lingers. And it’s not so much because of the unforgiveness on my part, as it is the thought… The instant replay in my head of the situation. The feeling of the emotion experienced. Or simply, seeing a particular something, or someone which resembles the heartless and unbelievable moment when my world and how I view that someone, or something all change. I understand when people say I can forgive, but not forget. And yes, the devil has his own art of assisting the replay to formulate in our minds, but thankfully when we forgive, it inhibits our actions of belligerency and turns us toward being merciful.

    Of course, later, we find ourselves coming to terms with our feelings, which is great. But what about the in between. What we do with those feelings until we get to that point?  Again, what we cannot control, or understand brings out our not so best qualities. I know of one situation in my life, where at the beginning, because of my lack of understanding, I was belligerent. But later, as I grew to understand the situation, as well as, the person involved, I became more tolerant. So, it is much easier to save face when you know before hand what you are stepping into. It’s manageable, despite the lingering, unresolved uneasiness of the situation. It’s the new stuff… the unknown which ruffles my feathers to no avail. For the known, I can quite myself, but the unknown, like a baby, I’m in tantrum mode and become very opinionated, trying to understand the situation. Making sense of the madness, sought to speak. Like children…, not being able to articulate, or fathom a resolution for our circumstances gives way to chaotic behavior…

    My grandmother instilling in me at an early age, her enormous love for me, and the power of faith, diminished many of my struggles and frustrations where they were not as momentous as they could have been. As she rests in peace, it is my heavenly Father who continues to teach me the importance of impartiality and love. Showing me the err of my ways, I continue to strive to be a better person in all situations. I understand, more so now, what it is to turn the other cheek. To endure pain inflicted upon me by others and not be moved. To continue in battle. As long as I know God has my back, I don’t believe there is anything anyone can say, or do anymore that will move me from my frame of mind of being at peace. When I do encounter situations which I do not understand, I call on the holy spirit to guide me, while all along, constantly reciting Proverbs 91: 1-2, “ he who dwells in the secret place of the most high, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God in Him I will Trust.”.  I ask forgiveness for any wrong which I may have unknowingly inflicted on others and stay in peace. I’ve not quite unlearned all that I mastered in “Tantrums 102 – Heated discussions”, but day by day that number (if referenced to the degree of intensity of my discussions regarding uncontrollable situations), has greatly diminished and I give God all the glory…

    CWB

      God is your Biggest Fan – Don’t give up!

      God is your Biggest Fan – Don’t give up!

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      It brings tears to my eyes when I think of the times God has encouraged me through others… Days when I felt weightless and frazzled, as though the rug had been swept from under my feet. When I didn’t know whether I was coming or going.  Or, whether to sit down, or stand up.  Like an entree of breakfast chops and scrambled eggs, struggling to comprehend the time of day.  Feelings of no direction, yet always moving towards something. Never sure if the something I was headed toward, was the something which was divinely orchestrated.  Nevertheless, God always found a way to communicate to me along the way, all was good… Giving me insight and encouragement, He would gently whisper, “Keep going…You Got This”.

       

      God is so awesome. A well-known fact shared whole heartedly throughout, I’m sure.  On my worse days, He can alleviate the greatest sufferings and infuse it with a sense of peace. If this were an ode, it would be a passionate, fervent ode to my God. For my heart cries and sings simultaneously as I reminisce of His goodness in my life. My mind, in awe, is mystified by the way He touches my life. Have you ever been in love? It is this kind of love which is the feeling I have when I think of Him. The love you cannot live without, even on your busiest of days. It’s the kind of love, no matter what the case may be, you can never be angry with the other. You always find your way back to that feeling, that love, which thankfully never goes away. In Romans 8: 38:39, Paul writes, “ For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God.” Once you have experienced His presence and have acknowledged Him as your God, and expressed to Him your love for Him and His children, there is no turning back. If like Paul and many believers, you raised your hands to the sky asking for forgiveness and mercy, and then praised Him for giving you peace which surpasses all understanding… And if like Paul, and many believers you did this on a daily basis, every chance you could get…. There isn’t anything, anyone, or any circumstance that will be able to take that fervent Love away you have for your God.

       

      When talking with my Mom on the phone, we snicker like little girls, as we tell our stories of triumph, witnessing God’s influence and hand on our life.  Just like David in 1 Chronicles 16:9 when he was overwhelmed with the goodness of the Lord, exalting, “Sing to Him, sing his praise; tell of His wonderful acts”.…….When you begin to witness his goodness, you can’t help but rejoice and sing praise to His name. He helps us along in the most mundane of ways. One of the amazing gifts given to us is to know He is here encouraging us, cheering us on, teaching us the fundamentals of life, as He knows it. Just as earthly fathers teach their children, He too teaches us daily.  It is disheartening though, to see those of us who do not realize how close God’s hand is to their own. If they’d only reach out and take His hand, they too would see and feel his amazing love for us. Just last week, I was trying to decide on which day to mow the lawn.  And suddenly, a vague shimmer of thought and encouragement evaded my mind which suggested I mow it on Tuesday, even though I really wanted to mow it on Wednesday, since the forecast didn’t call for rain until Thursday. Not fully confident who it was, or what it was nudging me along, I conceded it was the Lord’s doing and asked Him to help me to be obedient. The following day after I had mowed the lawn, as I pulled up to the driveway to get the mail, sun shining … not a cloud in the sky… I said see Lord, could have mowed the lawn today anyway. And thought, maybe it wasn’t You after all nudging me along.   And since He was giving me lessons on knowing his voice, I decided to chalk this one up to, not, being his voice, at this time. But then 20 minutes later, around the time I would have been heading out to do the lawn, what do you know… I looked out the window and what did I see, but little droplets of rain falling on the deck… I had to take a second look and wipe my eyes a bit, until it was plain to see it had started to rain. I was tickled pink….

       

      He speaks to me through the sermons of my Pastor. He speaks to me and through me in my writing. I see Him in messages inscribed on bulletin boards, tags of cars when driving, or pamphlets I read when given the opportunity. So many signs. No one could ever imagine how grateful I am for my life and the encouragement I receive from God. Whether it is for the purpose He has given me, or the mundane activities of my life, He gives me encouragement each and every day.  Through all the trials and tribulations, I would not change any of it for all the world. For my Father has taught me so much about love, fear, and trust. He truly has made me and molded me in His image. And His encouragement tells me, I am his biggest fan.

        What can you do for me?

        What can you do for me?

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        This piece is another of those written where I felt was going in so many directions, I had to take a step back for fear of losing its purpose.  I believe it’s delay worked in my favor, for many of the conversations and activities participated, tied everything together, in one pretty bow.

        Last month, I had the pleasure to share with my family, one of many accomplishments my daughter has successfully achieved in her life.   On this occasion it was acquiring her Masters.  I first give glory to God for watching over her and instilling in her the ability to focus and stay focused while also experiencing the challenges of life.  Understanding now, focus is one of the key ingredients to successfully accomplishing our goals, I have adopted this concept as my mantra, of sought. God created such a strong young woman of whom I am so proud to call my daughter. There were times, though, I was afraid she was focused to a fault. But, because, like her mother, she always stepped back to evaluate her circumstances, concentrating on her intent and actions, I never really have to worry about her character, or her soul for that matter.

        All of us, in our journey in life, run the risk of falling short. We learn as we go and grow to be better people.  We may do, or, and say hurtful things to others…. Unconscionable things even, which would be seen as unforgiving. Or perhaps, we may conjure thoughts…, preconceived notions of each other’s intent, which later we find to be wrong, or just not justifiable enough to condemn. But if with God’s grace and our learned lessons (which award grace and to and by others), we then take these lessons learned, and rejoice, knowing no one is expected to get everything right, it is a beautiful freeing experience.  For with acceptance of our faults, we find within ourselves and others, value, and the gracious mercies of God for which we can be grateful.

        There are many who strive for success and stop at nothing to achieve what they set out to accomplish.  I’ve heard people say, any association with anyone, other than those who serve a purpose in their life is pointless. Basically, if you can’t support me by way of assisting , contributing, making a mark in helping me, or inciting me to achieve my goals, or higher potential…, if you have no resources which are of value to me, then you are not a necessity in my  life. This of course, is not to be misunderstood with those people in our life, whose only goal, in their own life, is to self-destruct and bring everyone down along with them.  I get it! It’s obvious they are detrimental to our well-being, and we should have the right to choose whether, or not, we should associate with them (unless of course our own mission and purpose is to actually help them). But if while protecting our best interest, we in turn ban people in our life, those who love us and support us in their own crazy way, then what are we doing?  People such as our family, who we should have no choice, but to love. Or our spouses, who we have promised to love for better or worse. It is these people we should hold on to, through thick and thin, despite our twisted notions of them when they get on our nerves.  I mean, isn’t this the purpose of having quirky inconsistencies in our life? If you can’t survive the world according to your family, let me tell you, your chance of surviving the real world according to society are slim to none.

        Our purpose should never be more important than the gift of family.  An unconditional love which is so precious and gives us the strength to go the extra mile is not something that should be taken for granted.  We are here to serve each other.  To associate our loved ones to materialistic opportunities is shameful.  As it would, in any association, to anyone, for that matter.  For this would display signs of a society gone wrong.  Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. could not have explained it better when he described how materialism was one of three pitfalls to society. The more we produce, the more we want, which then jeopardies our moral compass to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. With family being the core of our pursuit in life, material advancement should not be center stage. The adrenaline to produce and succeed reveals the junky in us which is difficult to shake. It is as if we never become satisfied with what we have, or where we are, or where we are going in life.  There is no end in what we do, or, how we do it, or who we push aside in order to achieve our goals, while all at the expense of others. There is this perpetual drive to have more. Do more.  To be better than the next person.  If a member of our family is a drug dealer, or a user of such, are we going to disown them because we have no use for him? I know, I know…. many people who do drugs or tend to deal with things of that nature are destructible, in their own right. Untrustworthy even. So maybe this is a bad analogy. I suppose, like Jesus when he was praying for the sick, if your presence conflicts with my mission, then I just as well rather you not be present. But perhaps, better illustrated, if someone close to us were illiterate, would we push them away because they serve no purpose? Or, if they were poor, and, or had no direction in life, would we then shut them out? Even those relationships of an estranged nature, in the end, bear some value if we take the time to repair the rift. What it boils down to is when our selected agendas for the lives of certain people in our life, do not live up to our expectations and they are unable to support the agenda we have selected for them, should we then push them away? If it was, would it not come at a cost of evaluating the people in our lives as steppingstones, or future opportunities for increase…What does this say for our character and the well-being of our soul? Minorities of all kinds have been steppingstones, politically, economically, and socially for forever. But of course, that is another subject all on its own, and one which has proven to be immoral, but, nevertheless still relevant, and very much similar in this respect. Any measure of someone’s worth by a handicap or set back of any nature, whether it be financially, educationally, or social lack thereof, warrants re-evaluation of the direction our soul teeters. If back in 1967, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. blamed it on scientific power as being the reaper of our souls, what is our excuse today, but that of a continuing saga of our yesterday? In Philippians 2: 3-4, it says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interest of the others”.   How different this world would have evolved if we would have lived by this concept. There would be no disparity in regard to society because there would be no measure. There would only be love and acceptance of ourselves and that of others regardless of faults or handicaps. There would be no ridicule, no comparison, no distinction. Just love. And it would be about what we can do for each other, so that we can ALL live pursuing our life, liberties, and happiness together, in harmony, just as Jesus exemplified in his own life.

         

         

        CWB

         

           

          Are You trustworthy?

          Are You trustworthy?

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          Trust is crucial in a relationship. If there is no trust, the most crucial segment which holds a relationship together is impaired. Like a foundation, if the soil, exemplifying the participating members in the relationships mental and emotional capacity to bind, is not solid, it can easily be violated and fall apart. Whether the brokenness is due to a lack of knowledge of the participating party, or too much thereof.  Or whether it is due to a past, or a multitude of events which led to an experience of great pain, regardless, it can cause considerable damage and be very difficult to repair. Worst of all, when the motive to trust is only for personal gain, then the trust suddenly turns into a masquerade of selfish endeavors, and one can then, only concede, it isn’t trustworthy at all.

          Trust, defined as placing one’s confidence. To believe, that someone, or something, will be, or do, who, or what they say they will be or do.  If you’ve ever experienced a broken trust in someone, you know, it is difficult to regain. And if, given the opportunity, the person seeking the trust would constantly find themselves conducting a multitude of test before ever giving in, for fear of being hurt again. The parties are suddenly strangers and the elephant in the room is bigger than ever. Quite possibly could be the reason for the extensive trial and tribulations set before us. God would not trust us with that which is so precious to Him, if he were not certain we were in it for the right reasons.  Being committed is second in command to trust, and both are needed to stand the test of time.

          God knows we are imperfect people. So as a safety net, he teaches us to trust him, and only him. All pain is easily avoided, when we set our eyes on Him. When we place our trust in Him, suddenly the pain and sufferings are no more. His love, coupled with our trust in Him, yields a shield of protection, which depending on the foundation, cannot be moved. If for all the right reasons you find yourself in this place, consider yourself blessed. If the reason you trust in him, is because you know without a shadow of a doubt, he loves you, and he will always be there for you…And because of this you are forever grateful for this merciful Love…. Then because of His unconditional love, your worries will be no more. And he in turn will entrust you to be a conduit for his love, mercy, and generosity, unconditionally helping others as He helped us. It is this remarkable milestone in life, solely trusting God, and God trusting us, that makes life truly worth living. Beyond any human experience.

          It took a lot for me to fully trust God. It is my greatest and most treasured accomplishment, aside from bearing my child. It gives me the freedom to soar. It gives me the confidence to know and feel, I am somebody and that someone loves me enough to supply all my needs. He takes my fear away. He heals me by the blood of his only son, and through His Spirit, I am free. He loves me unconditionally and forgives me, even in my worst moments. He makes me a better person and is always there when I need Him. He is my father and now my most trusted friend for life.

           

          CWB

             

             

             

            Love….

            Love….

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            The Love of God…, an amazing feeling, which if believed, can move …unsurmountable mountains. Heal… the most wounded of hearts. And encourage and guide, those of us who are lost and disenchanted by the afflictions of life. With this love, amazing feats can be accomplished. But more so, with this love, if instilled in the lives of two people who care deeply for one another, can teach them, there is nothing more precious than the love they share for each other. And when given, on top of these teachings, the amazing gift of insight from the Holy spirit, if receptive, the spirit will always be there to help and guide them, if they are not hardened by the intrusion, but rather embraced by what it truly is… a gift of love.

            I watch the love relationships within my family, where they involve the love of a man and a woman. So many obstacles, and mountains we encounter when we agree to come as one. Even if ordained by God, life still floors us with the unexpected… The unwanted. Many times, looking as though it is the end… Having us wonder what we have done, where we went wrong, and how it can be fixed.  And though we attempt to heed the warnings, speculating the union between a man and a woman is no bed of roses, ironically it is not what we anticipate going in to the union, because we recall the love initially shared and felt by us both.  Innocently forgetting, though we have been bought together as one, to live in one accord; we are still at the end of the day… individuals. Individuals with very different personalities, upbringings, and mindsets. But if we truly come to one accord as in Philippians 2:1-30 , “ …[with] encouragement [from] Christ, … comfort from love, … participation in the Spirit, …affection and sympathy, [we can be] complete[d] [with the ]… joy [of] … being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. [If we] [d]o nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than [ourselves]. [If we] … look not only to [our] own interests, but also to the interests of others [, we may] [h]ave this mind among [each other], which is [ours] in Christ Jesus, [uninhibited and in one accord] …

             

            And so, never underestimate the love of God and how the spirit of our Lord Jesus can work in our lives. I continue to profess every day, if those that never knew him only knew what I have come to realize and experience in abiding in the shelter of His Most High, they would latch on to him and never let go.  He will indeed test your endurance.  But I believe He feels if you can walk through the fire and not give up, you can get through anything and not turn around for the journey will get easier and be more profound. Meaning if you thought you were in love at the beginning, just wait to see what you feel after you have been through some things which were beyond your control and you survived. You stood your ground, did not whimper, or run away, but prayed and hid in the shadows of the Almighty, putting your trust in him because he is your God (Psalm 91).  Embrace Life…. Embrace Love …. Challenge that which comes against you, with the many gifts God’s grace and the Holy Spirit provides you with so that ultimate gift, the gift of love will abound.

            CWB

              Something to talk about…

              Something to talk about…

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              “Declare his glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the people… (Psalms 96:3).”  To have this opportunity…, to declare God’s goodness is a blessing in more ways than one. It first gives us the incentive to be mindful of the goodness he produces in our life. To anticipate His marvelous works.  But moreover, it allows others the blessing of hearing firsthand, how great, and powerful He is … still is, in our life. When we speak of God’s goodness and shout it to the rooftop, we are so elated it can be heard in our voices. Our whole demeanor changes once the thought of God’s goodness crosses our mind. Others, then, are able to see, and feel as well, his blessings manifested in our life. It is exciting…. seeing and hearing the works of God in the lives of others. If they are aware of his goodness and mercy in your life, then they know, just as it worked out for you, it can work out for them as well in their own.

              Patience is a virtue. A character, which if possessed, will allow you to see tomorrow, if God wills it, with dignity. I look back on the times I’ve lost patience with God, or myself really, and wondered, when will I do for myself what is needed. When will I persevere through the tougher times in life. I’m not talking about the times when there was no opposition, like writing a book…. Or looking for a job… These feats take stamina…staying power. Once you start, you continue until you are finished.  No…, I’m talking about those times, within those times, when we felt as though the walls were closing in all around us, and we could not breathe.  When the powers of darkness convinced us, we would not accomplish what we set out to do. Convinced us we would not accomplish what God has willed for in our life. Or when we felt like we took a wrong turn in life, and there’s no way we can get back on course. Or our character has been attacked and we believe all hope is gone…The times we feel like our only option is to jump ship. To give up and take a safer, less opposing path.  “[But, it is these times we] …need to persevere so that when …[we] have done the will of God, …[we] will receive what He has promised (Hebrews 10:36).” We need to allow ourselves time. Time to grow, to learn, to think, and to receive the grace He so lovingly bestows upon us in order to achieve what He has instilled in us to achieve. God discloses to us a plan he has for our life, but if we are not patient, we will never see it come to pass.

              Of course, we could, as I have witnessed countless times, view the same scenic route around the mountain, and never achieve the ultimate promise. But then what would we have to shout about? What fun would that be? I fancy the notion, God shielding me with his favor. I look forward to those times when he works in my life. In fact, It’s like a game. Life is so discouraging at times but knowing this gives me the grace to kick a bad feeling every time. I remind myself, One …. “This too shall pass.” … And Two …., once it’s all said and done, there’s no doubt, I will have something to shout to the roof tops… Something to praise my heavenly Father in doing what he does best in my life. I will have, in all his wondrous glory and marvelous works … something to talk about.

              CWB

                Thoughts….

                Thoughts….

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                Do you ever wonder the origin of particular thoughts? One week I was having a myriad of crazy thoughts. Thoughts which made no sense and had absolutely nothing to do with the current status of my life. I know, in regard to my writing, God will place thoughts in my mind, of direction, and understanding of certain situations, and sometimes even revelations. The thoughts which were infiltrating my mind, at the time, though, were random and not derived from anything related to my world, or anything buried in my subconscious. But from what I understand, in order for them to develop, they would need to have some relation to something in my mind. So, I found it strange that no matter how far in left field it appeared, or how much I disassociated myself with the thoughts and felt it to be an intrusion, it somehow wormed its way into my conscious.

                Thoughts are formed one of three ways from our senses, our subconscious, and, or from our unconscious databank. I did not consciously focus on these thoughts, so therefore its origin originated outside. The brain, then codes and processes these thoughts which we receive from outside stimuli. If there is something in our subconscious, or unconscious it can relate, or associate itself with, it then continues through the stages of the thought process as it develops into what we are thinking. My guess, from deduction, if there is no association found in our subconscious, or unconscious, it then swirls in our mind and becomes a blip in space.  In which case, we are given the choice of whether or not to retain it or label it as being of no use to us, hence disengaging it, hopefully back from whence it came. But what if the thought we receive has some remote relation to what is already stored in our minds. I mean 24 hours a day we are constantly gathering information, listening to conversations, utilizing social media. We are bound to pick up unwanted information which becomes inadvertently stored in our minds. And if we couple them with these unwanted thoughts, there is no telling the damage these pair can produce if we are not careful.  None of us want past negative experiences which are stored in our mind to hinder or allow us to believe to think negatively regarding situations in our lives. I wouldn’t want the past trauma of being stung by a bee, allow me to be petrified of bees to the extent that it would one day prevent me from walking through the doors of my destiny, just because it presents it self at the door buzzing to and fro. Have you ever rebuked a bee in the name of Jesus? Well I have, and if calling on Jesus at the sight of a bumble bee gives me courage to step over the threshold of my destiny, then I give God all the glory. It works.

                But of course, there are greater hurdles to overcome, or dismiss than the sight of a bee. The thought of fear, in seeing a bumblebee swarm over our head, is not as damaging as the thought of changing our sex, contemplating false accusations, killing someone…, or ourselves for that matter. Just as easily as one can receive the thought of a dancer performing in their minds, and then have the desire to become a dancer, one can receive the thought of death, and decide to kill. Or receive the thought of an addictive substance, or an uncharted reprehensible situation and then have the incredible desire to feed the addiction, satisfy the curiosity, or create the moment. And all the while, we mistakenly think, well this must be my desire, or why would I be thinking it. Not realizing, or considering the garbage we collect each day, being a hazard, which ignites the ill-gotten thoughts, making it a challenge, to say the least, to achieve the plan God has for our lives. Just another one of the devil’s ploys to make us believe we are unworthy, or to lead us down the wrong path.

                I was talking with a colleague of mine one day, and they confided how their child, a beautiful young girl, I’d say around seventeen years of age, suddenly appeared to have romantic interest in another young girl her age.  After speaking with her daughter, and running through the scenario with me, we realized, due to the insistence of her and her husband not wanting the young girl to be around boys, this young lady, when propositioned by another young lady, concluded in her mind, if my parents say having a boyfriend is bad, then surely having a girlfriend must be good. Now, one might think, for seventeen she is very naïve. But remembering back when my own daughter was that age (who, I’d believed at the time was very responsible and mature for her age), there were things I thought she understood, which she actually had not. It baffled me. So never assume your child is fully aware of the surrounding circumstances they may encounter at any given time. What this young lady had stored in her subconscious, coupled with the proposition from her new young lady friend gave her own self the impression girls were acceptable to like, in any capacity, including romantically. Her desire to have friends coupled with never having been kissed, almost lead her down the wrong path. We cannot let outside stimuli convolute our thinking. At some point we must begin to listen to our instinct. In Romans 2;14, it is written even if one has no knowledge of the law, through our instincts we can tap into the nature of God’s ways and know what is good and not good. He is in us all, and through our thoughts, or conscious we are able to discern what is right or wrong. But if we don’t take the time to tap into our inner selves, if we don’t evaluate those thoughts which are fresh off the boat, sort to speak, if we proceed without caution, our lives become exposed to a sea of peril.

                One thing is certain, whether we call it our inner spirit, or the spirit of our heavenly father, if we guard our hearts and minds, and accept only that which is good… As it is written in Philippians 4: 8, thinking on those things which are true, honorable, just in nature, pure, lovely, with a sweetness that melts away all animosity, and worthy of all His praise…These are the thoughts which should enter our minds. And only these alone. Our constant battle with the world, is a fight I will take on, with the help of my heavenly Father to the end. I believe those myriads of thoughts were a lesson to make me pay attention to the garbage I evidently allowed to flood my mind.  What’s one less TV show dropped from my viewing list when speaking in terms of my obedience to my heavenly Father. My peace of mind. It’s a price well worth paying. Psalm 101:3 says, “I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.” It is up to us to dismiss those things which sets us out to sea, only to realize  we are unable to find our way back. In Philippians, Paul looks back on all that has been done to him and relishes the fact it all being for the Glory of Gods kingdom. In Philippians  2:2 he says, if you have any encouragement in Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the spirit, if any affection and compassion, then make my joy complete by being of one mind, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose.…Let’s not conform to what is suggested in this massive world of confusion. Let’s be liked minded, as our Father in Heaven. So much more peaceful than the alternative, wouldn’t you say?

                 

                CWB

                 

                   

                  A Better you – Sustained and eventually Reinvented (Part 1)

                  A Better you – Sustained and eventually Reinvented (Part 1)

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                  The most interesting compliment someone ever said to me was how good I was at reinventing myself. This person, as my mentor, worked very closely with me as I began accepting more challenging roles in my career. Unfortunately, at the same time, I was also having additional challenges on a more personal level, both physically and mentally. Be it as they were challenges, they felt unlike any other challenge; almost as if they were determined to destroy me. And although my mentor was not aware of the facts, but able to see my outward appearance, I imagine he realized, whatever I was going through, I was handling it with great stride and coming out of it, as it seemed, better than when I had begun. Since then, his words have stuck with me as I had a great deal of respect for him. Little did he know that it wasn’t me reinventing me, but God. Because while encountering all these challenges which I felt were more than enough for me to handle, I was praying, God please help me get through this, or better yet, show me how. And God was there for me, through every challenging experience.  With prayer I believed anything I encountered would be made sustainable with the power of prayer and perseverance. I believed I would shine yet again as this too passed. I persevered and became stronger.

                  Today, as I look back and remember all what I have been through…, on a personal level. Not so much in regard to relationships, though He had a hand in them as well, as He watched over the decisions I made, or the difficulties I encountered when relating with others. But personally…, me developing as a woman, and as his child. As his faithful, obedient, and confident child. I rediscover, today, my reinventions in myself and think, as so many of us do, where would I be if it were not for his grace that carried me through those difficult times.  The times when the demons were running through my mind trying to scare the bugeebees out of me. The times when I felt everyone was against me. The times when I felt so unattractive because my hair was falling out due to my physical health challenges; through the tears I’d call on God to ask Him to help me comb my hair. Yes, comb my hair! To sustain me for that day so I could look presentable long enough to go to work and hurry back home to my sanctuary. No one truly knew my pains and sufferings… But if it were not for God and He continually instilling the love of self in me, letting me know I would get through with his grace, it could have been me taking my life as I have heard so many others do when they were at their wits end.

                  God is our refuge and our strength always ready to help in times of trouble [Psalm 46:1]. God is with us every step of the way. My heart goes out to those who are unaware of the effect He can have on their life. I called on Him for my hair! Which is so remarkable to me still, as I look back. I mean He literally gave me ideas of what I needed to do to restore my womanly glory. For many would think it vain, but for my God, He saw that however trivial to some, I was in need of help from Him. And He came simply because I called with mustard seed in tow. For Him, it was the compassion of a parent seeing their child in distress, if not but a simple booboo as we would say, for that child it was devastating. For me, I understand the brutality of going through situations where you could not even imagine it changing. We feel for that moment, our yesterdays are gone, as well as our hope, and we are left with the feeling of nothing… But if we remember to hope in the Lord, and let the holy spirit be our guide, we are able to persevere through anything. David proclaimed he always envisioned the Lord before him, and because of this he was always happy, in good spirits and rejoicing in song (Acts 2:25-26). When you have Jesus always on the forefront, and He sees this He will never cease to amaze you with his wonderful works. It’s like following behind your father as a young child and watching him do amazing feats that you know you could never do in your own strength because you are so small compared to him. And your father so excited that he can show you things. Proud to be the center of your attention, impatiently showing you all he can as he watches you with love, take it all in as you grow in to the amazing person He is well aware you are able to become.  It’s amazing the relationship we can have with our heavenly Father when we let Him in our lives. I am in such awe of his goodness, and constantly saying how awesome He is and has shown Himself to be in my life. The littlest of things He does for me, amazes me, to say the least.

                  I recently tested whether, or not it was really Him creating these miracles in my life. My fiancée and I were going through some tough times where he had suddenly stopped telling me he loved me. So, during that time I began to, of course, doubt his love for me. Well long story short, miraculously things began to turn around. The relationship was amended, and to top it off, he also began to say, once again, I love you. But this time much more frequently than I was used to receiving. Like every day, which made me think, “Ok…, did he have a conversation with my Mom, and by her suggestion, began this amazing feat, or was this by the hand of God.”  For a good while I just accepted it. It was wonderful to hear. But then I thought, good Lord, if this is just because someone egged him on, and not from his heart, this can’t be good. And then it began to sound really genuine. And yes, it should always be genuine, but you know, some men would rather not say it at all, much less say it with feeling. You may get a mumble every now and then, but it’s always as if they are participating in some ritual extraction. So, I said God, if this is your doing please give me a sign. And guess what happened, the next morning no I love you. I was like a wimpy kitten. And I don’t even like cats…. But I wondered, where’s my I love you, and then I remembered with amusement the question I asked only the day before. I said Ok, Lord, I won’t complain, but please fix it back to the way it was when he was telling me he loved me every day. And lo and behold, the next morning, like music to my ears, the sweet “I love you” resumed as usual.

                  But my greatest lesson in all this is to never give up. I recently went through another episode of what I would call Life’s most devastating moments and was calling on God everyday asking Him to help me. After so many tries or attempts at what I had preoccupied myself with, I was truly about to give up, when a voice egged me on to try one more time. Little did I know that had I given up I would not have known the next attempt would be the reward. We hear others say it all the time, but we never really experience that ‘Aha” moment, until it has happened to us. I understand how one can give up. And the frustration that would impel someone to give up just before the breakthrough. We think it insane from the outside looking in, but it’s not really. Especially when your fighting with the dark, in the dark, trying to stay encouraged. But now I also know the blessing when we have faith and call on Jesus, or simply give it to Him. The overwhelming unbelievable joy you feel when you can breathe a sigh of relief that you made it through. But not only have you made it through, you put up a fight on purpose. Determined… I’ve had situations where I was so busy, God had to have taken the reigns in order for me to have come through the amazing feats I encountered. And He does, at times. Think of car accidents that were prevented. You don’t even know they’re coming. But He watches over us in all circumstances. But the times when you are in the midst. When you see and feel every wrenching attribute which is determined to make your life a miserable hell. That is when the good fight and its passing is a testimony that will last a life time. You were fighting in the midst of all the chaos and came through. Better than you were when you started. Brand new and reinvented with the help of God, Jesus, and the holy spirit all wrapped up in one.

                  CWB

                    Persevering with Success

                    Persevering with Success

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                    I wondered recently, what attributes produce success. I look at my life, and though I would consider myself successful, to a certain degree, I’ve yet to accomplish the more challenging goals laid out before me. Or should I say, those goals which God has placed in my heart. There are times when I think I should be doing more but feel as though I procrastinate. After putting in my 9 – 5, the first thing that comes to mind is R & R which unfortunately, at times, leads to a feeling of guilt…. But then, with God’s grace, He encourages me, and reminds me I am operating in His time and this is good. In 2 Peter 3: 8-9 and Habakkuk 2-3, we are asked to be patient, for the visions placed in our heart will come to pass, despite the long wait for it to manifest.

                    In general, woman, rarely have moments of pure relaxation…. But, then again, who does these days. I do know, if I am procrastinating, I am the most productive procrastinator I know. I may not be accomplishing my greatest feat, but I have accomplished a great many feats, none the less. There is always something that will need our attention, thereby lending our dream – goal oriented tasks to neglect, and, or a disturbed feeling of procrastination. We set out keeping God first and foremost; keeping a happy home; and keeping ourselves intact in the midst of everything going on in life.  I feel I start things, and rarely are able to finish what I started. Always distracted by other tasks. Passions in life require time, and commitment. Two of the things, I either do not have, or rather not do, for fear I will end up quitting anyway because of what I feel I do not have, which is of course, again is time. . . But this is a new dawn on my life. I feel God has anointed this time in my life and I am compelled to seek His presence, vigilantly, now more than ever. I want to achieve and produce amazing feats because God has done such amazing feats in my life. I guess like any child, you want to acknowledge the sacrifices made on your behalf and show your appreciation for what your parents have done for you.  I realize, if those desires, I want to accomplish are truly anointings from God, my Father, He will guide me to do what He has called me to do.  Whether it be raising my children, taking care of my parents, working in my profession, or realizing my humanitarian passions, God will make a way and guide my path to the destiny He willed for my life.

                    Success in anything we will do in life, no doubt requires hard work. Lack of time is not the only deterrent.  You can have the passion all day long, but if there is no motivation, or willingness to muster through the muddy waters, you will likely fail. Take my writing for instance. If it were not for God’s grace, assuredly, I would not be doing this today. I’ve had a passion for writing for a good 20 years, if not more. I’d start and stop. Start and stop. Never sticking to the task of completing a project. But as I started seeking God, earnestly, realizing without him life is so much more difficult, I then realized along the way, I was more successful in everything I did. And that which He placed on my heart became an even deeper desire. More like a need. It became part of me and was no longer a dream. This is when I realized dawn had come. Though I still had very little time to accomplish what I desired or needed to do, I had Him to lean on and guide me throughout my day. You hear others say God wants you to include him in everything you do. Well it’s not just so He, I don’t know, can take up more of your time. It truly benefits you. I get so much more accomplished when I seek him continuously throughout the day.  I say, “Lord you put this before me, and I don’t see how I ‘m going to be able to accomplish everything.” “I need your help.” “Order my steps today.” Simple as that, and He guides me to the areas I need to address first. I finish with the first task, and then ask him what I should do next, and the Holy spirit guides me. Till I suddenly realize, I have accomplished so much, while still managing to get some rest (which is by the way, very important to me). He is so amazing! Now don’t get me wrong, it’s still hard work, but it’s so much more enjoyable, and much more rewarding when you do it in the midst of seeking God. The hour and a half commute to work, which everyone seems to dread, feels like half an hour when I’m praising him, or catching up with family members on the phone. The worry as to whether, or not I will forfeit rest for productivity, no longer a concern. He just orders my steps, prioritizes my schedule, and to my amazement I feel better than ever, accomplishing all that I set out to do, including my passions.

                    As it states in Psalms 16:3, if you commit, or seek God regarding the work set before you, it will be successful because you sought him. He would not give us a task, or responsibility, or blessing and not support us in what we do. When He said He will not leave or forsake us, it was meant in every aspect of our life. We are called for a purpose. Whether it is the purpose of raising our children; keeping a pleasant home for our family; building upon in our career the talents God so graciously instilled in us; good will come because it was willed by God and guided by the Holy spirit. We should never feel as though accomplishments are impossible, because as we all know, all things are possible with God. Run your race with enthusiasm. Delight yourself in His amazing mercy and see what He has in store for you….

                    CWB

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