Encouragement Through Life's Turbelence - I Am Still Grateful!

This Thanksgiving month has been a month of balancing it all out. I often write and listen to music.
Though storms are raging in my life, I won't complain, and I am still most grateful.

Have you ever been knocked down or felt beat down by two?                                      

I have and must share these words of empowerment with you.
It just may be the very thing that brings you through.

While living in peace, one day as I was journey through life
Along came a personal family problem
It pierced my heart - felt like a knife

I quickly forgot my focus, my purpose, and sometimes me
Focused on the problem, misery, and strife...I became weak
Depressed, couldn't think straight, but wait  ...
Out of the darkness, hell's gate, another personal problem, a storm, did sneak

Distracted by the situations, I was purposeless living and was sinking deep
Distractions are to bind you
Distractions will take all you have - peace, possessions, purpose - for keeps

Psalms 27: 13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Depressed, can't think straight
Weakened double - what, oh what can I do?
As I think things over and look around
I realized all of my good days outweigh my bad days, I won't complain
So I quickly stand back up - I get off the ground

Understand, in the storm I couldn't see
I was being bound by the two oppressors - maybe the three
Emotionally hijacked, I was filled with fear
But NOTHING could block me knowing God had not left me and He is always near.

God's guardian angels, He quickly dispatched
One took me in for shelter,
One spoke God's peace, power, and life
And another reminded me of my victory that can never be snatched
For no weapon formed against me shall prosper
We all prayed and told the storm where to go
God is in control and have the power - we all know

Now, I have stopped looking at the situations
But instead I look at the meaning of life
Checking dials, balancing, reading compasses of destiny
And removing myself from all distractions and strife

Revisiting what I and others have and can endure...
My multiple life's turbulence
Harriet Tubman traveling through the Underground Railroad
Mrs. Coretta Scott King - husband murdered and her battle with cancer
Nelson Mandela - spending twenty-seven years in prison
ALL still fully engaged in their purpose
I AM EMPOWERED!  I can do this!  I am sure!

For I know all that God has bought me through
I know that God is good and is always near
He won't let you down
So I have no fear!
God KNOWS the plans He has for you.
I AM GRATEFUL!

Because I have committed my life to God, I know I will be tested and will go through
There will be times that I will be emotionally hijacked and possibly lose control of the flesh
I ask God for forgiveness, to remove anything that is not of Him from me, and fill the void with His likeness.
I pray, declare, and decree that God WILL mold me into the woman He has called me to be
In the midst of my trails, tribulations, life's turbulence, I am strengthened...
I am strengthen in God's perfect peace to carry out God's will
My life is not my own, to Him I belong, and it is to be used as a testimony
Greater is coming...
I give myself away, so God can use me...

Psalm 27: 14 Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.

1 Chronicles 16:34

34 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Never Give Up On A Child! A Dedication to Clarence Shawantae' Robinson

Today, I write, with mixed emotions.  Tears in my eyes.  Tears of joy and tears of pain.  There is so much tribulation going on in my life and even more in the world.  It is time like these when I find the good, focus and hold on to that moment.  For if I am going to be distracted, let it be with good.  It will be for my good.  Through it, I am reminded how good God is.

People probably wonder why I talk about God so much. I have been through some tough things in life where I know I should have been dead! But God kept me.  I am a living testimony.  I KNOW what God has done and is doing in my life and in my sons' (Alonzo and Clarence Shawntae') lives. I will forever give God the glory and praise for without God, we never would have made it. Without God, my grandchildren will not make it.  Allow me to share with you with a focus on "Shawntae" whom is the foundation of my strength and the reason for the publication of my book, A Mother's Cry:he's still my child, which a signed copy could be ordered via http://www.pep247.com/.

"Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him," Psalms 127:3 tells me.  It doesn't matter how they got her, who the baby daddy is, or how old the parents are.  Bottom line - children are a gift from the Lord.  So, when the gift is not operating as you want it to, do you just through it away? Some people do, but we shouldn't!  Especially if it is a gift from the Lord.  That's how I came about the title of my book, A Mother's Cry: he's still my child.  For it didn't matter to me that my son had made wrong choices and was living a life of self-destruct.  It didn't even matter to me when he disrespected me because I knew that God had given him to me to nurture, to love and cherish - until death did us part.  I knew if I gave up on my son that he would truly be left out in a mean, cruel, and cold world to be devoured by those wolves in sheep clothing.  

It wasn't easy watching my son self-destruct, selling drugs, doing drugs, in and out of the juvenile criminal system, and being beat down by the streets of darkness.  It surely wasn't easy to hear him curse at me.  It was even more painful for me to want more for my son then he wanted for himself.  He would often say, "I am not going to live to see 21" and was living a self-fulfilling prophecy.  But, as a mother, I was determined that he would see 21; and he would come out of the streets of self-destruction; and he would find his way into a profession he loved.  Through many prayers - both mine and prayer warriors- and by the grace of God, Clarence Shawntae' Robinson is a living testimony.  The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.  Psalms 18:2.  God will deliver - from parent to child, generation to generation - if we would seek his face, pray, ask.  

Many have asked me if I was going to write another book and what is Shawntae doing now.  I am sure I

have already posted that status, but I am led to focus on good things today. I do have plans to write other books - one is already in the works and perhaps one day a movie.  But let me share some things about Shawntae- for he, too, is a living testimony.  I am so happy and so very proud to tell you that Shawntae is a Chef and prepares the best food!  If you have not eaten his food, you are missing out on a treat.  Shawntae' cooks with comedy.  I have eaten the food and enjoy it, but I am still trying to get use to the comedy. He has always joked around.  In fact, I used to shut him down for joking around.  Obviously, it was in his blood, in his genes, in his plans.  Today, I encourage him to follow his heart's desire, but keep it clean.  Here are some of thing things Shawntae has been into.    

http://www.citizen-times.com/story/money/business/2014/09/20/asheville-native-mixes-comedy-cooking/15828955/

See page 10:
http://issuu.com/abtech/docs/abtech_educationjournal_fall2014web

FB post:

Clarence Robinson feeling determined with DeWayne Bartonand 9 others.

1 hr · 

Love waking up feeling like this is life even when I know there's more to accomplish! Really enjoyed the event last night. Food disappeared, you know you got that flavor when guest are snatching scraps while your breaking down and cleaning. Think they tried to take the table cloth cause it had a lil love on it!😂Most importantly , im excited about this opportunity to have my story shared at a culinary school at a Technical College in ATLANTA!!! Was approached last night and told they have been watching me. And the school's Chef will be contacting me!Priscilla R. Ndiayee you also have a personal invite from the contact she said so you can see how beautiful it is!!ThanksDeWayne Bartonn 1💗double bowlegged bruda! You never know who's watching.... So I stay the same... ‪#‎ChefLove4Life‬

Clarence Robinson

1 hr · 

Last night Tony Shivers asked me, "Cooking keeping you out of trouble ain't it!" As he went for round two at the reception table😂😂.. I replied all day my brother. I wanna change that my brother and say Cooking saved my life!!! Great seeing you King keep Glowing Mac... Aeee you got the juice now....... The Holy juice of the Sprit and Blood of the most high!! Tip my hat to you.‪#‎Respect‬

I am thankful for the great support team I had while journeying through with such a challenging child.   It takes the village to raise a child! Couldn't have done it without the support.  Please forgive me for not remembering everyone.  There is a more complete list in the book.  Here are some who comes to mind:  

My family, Robinson and Finley are the best!  My older son, Alonzo was my rock and anchor. Jr's Barbershop - my brother Oscar, Leon Bass, Jr., Portia Evans, Ruth Fabian; daugher-n-law Nikoletta Robinson,Sharon Willis-Fane, Robert Simmons, Life on Life Terms - Matthew Bacoate, Billy Gardenheight, Jr., Karen Cowan, Quentin Miller, Walter Robertson, Holly Broadwater, Bennie Lake, Mr. James Collington, Mr. Craig, Onas Perry, Doug Maybin, Lisa and DeWayne Barton, Coachella Hunter-Purter, Valerie Harper (the other mother), Mamadou Ndiaye, and last by not least, Judge Calvin Hill (who was then Clarence Shawntae's public defender in court).  

                                                      Your labor was not in vain!

Forty Day Journey - Day 3 - What Drives Your Life?

"Everyone's life is driven by something.  Most dictionaries define the verb drive as "to guide, to control, or to direct."  There are hundreds of circumstances, values, and emotions that can drive your life.  Listed below are five of the most common:

1.  Many people are driven by guilt.  They spend their entire lives running from regrets and hiding their shame.  They allow their past to control their future.

2.  Many people are driven by resentment and anger.  They hold on to hurts and never get over them.

3.  Many people area drive by fear.  Their fears may be a result of a traumatic experience, unrealistic expectations, growing up in high-control home, or even genetic predisposition.

4.  Many people are driven by materialism.  Their desire to acquire becomes the whole goal of their lives.

5.  Many people are drive by the need for approved.  They allow the expectations of parents or spouses or children or teachers or friends to control their lives.


There are benefits of purpose-driven living. Knowing your purpose gives meaning to your life, simplifies your life, focuses your life, motivates your life, and prepares you for eternity.  One day you will stand before God and He will do an audit of your life, a final exam before you enter eternity.  He may ask, (1) What did you do with my son, Jesus Christ?  or (2) What did you do with what I gave you?


(How would you answer below?)


Thinking About My Purpose

Point to Ponder:  Living on purpose is the path to peace.

Verse to Remember:  "Yes, Lord, give perfect peace to those how keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you."    Isaiah 26:

Question to Consider:  What would any family and friends say is the driving force of my life?  What do I want to be?



***I am using as a guide, the book, The Purpose Driven Life, What On Earth Am I Here For?  by Rick Warren

Forty Day Journey - Day 2 - Are You An Accident?

DAY  2  - 

I was born to a 15 year old single mother and grew up in public housing.  My mother was the best mother she knew how to be - at that time.  I love my mother and have utmost respect for her.  My father was in and out of my life.  My grandparents stood in the gap and raised me, (with the help of four aunts) until I was almost a teenager.  I was told that I was an accident and was led to think that I destroyed my mother's life.  I never received that message in my spirit and pushed forward into learning how to live my life without making the same mistakes.

"Long before you were conceived by your parents, you were conceived in the mind of God.  He thought of you first.  It is not fate, nor chance, nor luck, nor coincidence that you are a breathing at this very moment.  God prescribed every single detail of your body.  He deliberately chose your race, the color of your skin, your hair, and every other feature.  He also determined the natural talents you would possess and the uniqueness of your personality.  

Because God made you for a reason, he also decided when you would be born and how long you would live.  God had a plan in creating you.  He knew the two individuals with the exact DNA he wanted to make you - regardless if they were good, bad, or indifferent.  While there are illegitimate parents, there are no illegitimate children.  God's plan took into account human error and even sin.  God never does anything accidentally and He never make mistakes.  God's motive fore creating you was in His love.  He made you for a reason and your life has a profound meaning!  We discover that meaning only when we make God the reference point of our lives."

Thinking About My Purpose

Point to Ponder:  I am not an accident.

Verse to Remember:  "I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born." Isaiah 44:2

Question to Consider:  I know that God uniquely created me.  What areas of my personality, background, and physical appearance am I struggling to accept?

My answer:  

I am struggling to accept the fact that I am too giving and some take my kindness for weakness. Why do I have to care about others so much?  Why do I sacrifice me, my time and talents - only to be left with a feeling of being used? Why haven't my talents placed me in a better financial position?  Knowing that God uniquely created me, I often find myself battling with whether I should do certain things or if I shouldn't.  I know that God doesn't want me to be a door mat or be used, but I always want to do what is pleasing in His sight.  Forever praying for clarity and a spirit of discernment.  God has been faithful.




This 40-day blog is Guided by the book, The Purpose Driven Life, by Rick Warren

Join Me In a Personal Forty Day Journey of Discovery

What on earth am I here for?  Have you ever asked yourself that question?  I have.  I have sought education - and have three degrees.  I have sought different careers - and have worked diverse positions from North Carolina to Hawaii, California, and Washington state.  I have been in several relationships - to include multiple marriages.  I attempted to commit suicide at a very young age, but without success.  I have searched all over for an answer of why am I here, but still couldn't find an answer. After all of those actions and activities, I have made a conscious decision to enter into a 40 day exploratory journey of discovery.  As a guide, I will be using the book, The Purpose Driven Life, by Rick Warren.  Notice all of the "I" ...?  It's not about me!

My dear sister-in-Christ, Sharon Willis-Fane, gave me this book in 2004 with a message "To my sister, my friend, you are a blessing to me and to others.  Keep up the good work.  I hope you enjoy this book, as I am enjoying mine.  Continue to be who you are forever learning and forever growing." I started reading the book in 2004, but with distractions; therefore I didn't finish it.  It's time to finish what I started - but start from the beginning.  What an awesome opportunity!  I am starting this 40 day journey with purpose.  Today, the average life span is 25,550 days.  I have probably used over half those days already.  But its never too late to set aside 40 days to figure out what God wants me to do with the rest of my days.

The Bible is clear that God considers 40 days a spiritually significant time period.  Whenever God wanted to prepare some for His purpose, he took 40 days.  Noah's life was transformed by 40 days of rain.  Moses was transformed by 40 days on Mountain Sinai.  The spies were transformed by 40 days in the Promised Land.  David was transformed by Goliath's forty-day challenged.  Elijah was transformed when God gave him 40 days of strength from a single meal.  The entire city of Nineveh was transformed when God gave the people 40 days to change.  Jesus was empowered by 40 days in the wildness.  The disciples were transformed by 40 days with Jesus after his resurrection.  The next 40 days will transform my life - and yours as we go through a chapter a day and as we think about the implications for your life.  As in the book, at the end of each chapter, there is (1) a point to ponder - a nugget of truth; (2) a verse to remember; (3) a question to consider; and (4) a discussion question.  I encourage you to please interact.  Post your thoughts on this blog and let's prayer for one another.

DAY 1  -

God has not left us in the dark to wonder and guess and is not just the start point of your life, he is the source of it.  You discover your identity and purpose through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 1:11-12The Message (MSG)

11-12 It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.

Think About My Purpose

Point to Ponder:  It's not about me.

Verse to Remember:  "Everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him."  Colossinas 1:16

Question to Consider:  In spite of all the advertising around me, how can I remind myself that life is really about living for God, not myself?


My answer, but yours will be different:

I can remind myself by first guarding my heart from the cares of the world.  Proverbs 4:23 states our thoughts often dictate who we become.  God examines the heart of a man, not outwardly.  So what does it mean to guard your heart from the cares of the world?

http://www.gotquestions.org/guard-your-heart.html

The Becks and Lee Walker Heights

I came across this video this on Facebook and it stirred up a mixture of emotions.  First watching it, my spirits were lifted.  I smiled.  Watching it for the second time, I laughed, but then became sad.  I know this community and I know Eddie Beck and his family.

https://www.facebook.com/100010205054944/videos/137562366593931/

Becks. Lee Walker Heights. Old School. Family. Community. If you don't know the history. If you don't know the story. If you don't know the personalities. If you don't know the connections. If you don't know the relations. If you don't know the reasons and the whys...If you don't know the Becks... you will never

understand. ‪#‎Learntounderstand‬#‪#‎Itsnotwhatyouthink‬

Some who don't know of this community or man, may have something derogatory to say. I stopped by today to encourage you.  Don't judge the book by the cover!  This scene is not what one may originally think it is.  Knowing what I know - it is a conversation, a push for this man to get to his doctor's appointment. It is a scene of belonging, love, concern, -----true community.

I have provided information that grant understanding in reference to my different emotions.
I can't recognize whom the woman is talking, but I do know the Becks.  The family grew up in Lee Walker Heights.  The Beck's family are very well respected and cook the best fried fish in Asheville. They have started and coached many community baseball teams.   I went to school with Lamont Beck and worked with his uncle and aunt Pam Beck.  The Lee Walker Height's community has been in tack for over 50 years and is one of Asheville's oldest public housing development.  There is getting ready to be major changes in Lee Walker Heights - just like it was on the Southside a.k.a. East of the Riverway. The scene you just witnessed will be no more. People will be divided and scattered throughout other areas of Asheville -  some areas where they may not be as welcomed --- where there is not a sense of belonging - where community will no longer feel like community.  Please pray for the Lee Walker Heights community members.  I pray that they will adapt to the upcoming major change - in the greatest way!

Lee Walker Heights:

http://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2014/10/26/demolition-transformation-coming-lee-walker-heights/17974875/

http://www.citizen-times.com/story/opinion/2014/11/03/view-stakes-high-lee-walker-heights/18386357/

http://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2015/04/08/housing-authority-addresses-lee-walker-heights-residents/25482929/

http://www.carolinapublicpress.org/20317/redevelopment-of-asheville-public-housing-project-might-be-model-for-larger-overhaul

Life Experiences Sometimes Take Us Into the Valley

Are You in the Valley?

There is so much going on around us, in life, and within our own lives.  It seems it’s turmoil and something everywhere you look.  When it hits home, I call that a “valley experience.”  I have discovered that valley experiences can enhance our spiritual growth - if we allow it.  It’s not what you are going through, it’s how you deal with what you’re going through.  Sometimes we end up in a valley experience not because of choices we directly made, but through the choices our children, spouses, and others  – leaving us indirectly impacted and with a feeling of being in a lonely and cold world.

Currently, I am journeying through a valley experience and it doesn’t feel good at all.  I will name this valley, Hurt.  Within this valley, be mindful there are other roads within i.e. fear, frustration, anger, loneliness; and if you go deep in the valley, there is hate, suicidal thoughts, and other areas of intensity.  One thing I have learned is a visit in the valley is a personal journey.  Others don’t understand because it’s not their journey.  Even if they were journeying in the valley, too, it is still a different effect.  For example, I am in the valley due to choices of a son.  He also has a wife.  We are both journeying through the valley, but it is a different experience for each.  It takes me back to the story in the Bible of Ruth and Naomi – but not with that exact specifics.  You see, my daughter-n-law, Nikki is from Hungary and we share an individual.  We are, temporarily, without her husband and my son; but Nikki and I have bonded with each other to bond and encourage him – pass the roadblock.  I’m talking about those things that prevent us from doing, seeing, being, and etc.  It’s an awesome experience, because in the midst, there is opportunity for me to minister the word of God to both.  And when there is a need, Niki also encourages me.  And when there is a need, Alonzo encourages us and we encourage him.  All three are on separate roads, but in a valley journey. 

It doesn’t matter if you have already been through a particular valley, it still is a different experience.  As I am traveling, I have to be very careful to balance my emotions, be in self-control, be watchful and prayerful at ALL times.  I must realize that the Lord is my Shepherd.  I will fear no evil for thy rod and thy staff comforts me.  You see, while journeying in the valley, it is a lonely place to be.  This is when you see who is there to encourage you.  Sometimes in the midst, there will be days that no one is there.  These are the days that you must realize God is always there.  He will never leave us nor forsake us.  These are the days you must realize that God wants us to lean on Him.  God wants to fill you with His love.  He wants to give you power.  These are the days that if you journey in the right mind, you will come out feeling and knowing that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.   I am sharing my value experience now.  

So the other day, my valley experience took control of me.  In other words, a big boulder came and knocked me down.  It placed me in a daze and I went down the road of sadness, took a left onto the road of depression, and made a u-turn on the road of loneliness.  After sitting and trying to figure which way to go, I looked over and got a glimpse of a neighborhood named “Poverty.”  That’s when I realized that I shouldn’t expect anything from man but expect all things from God through Jesus Christ.  Most people can’t encourage me or you because they are living in “Poverty.”  I used to live there, but I knew and know “Poverty” is not my destination.  I am talking about spiritual poverty.   Here is my revelation:  If one is journeying through life on the road of spiritual poverty, I pray you will make a choice to take another route.  For if and when you do, you will find there is nobody greater…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyRv-tbGJ1Y

To complete my story - In this valley, as I sat still, unable to move, oppressed, in deep thought, not knowing which way to turn, and all sorts of negative fiery darts coming at me – playing with my mind, I began to cry out to God for help!  I was led to listen to some gospel music and journal.  Personally, I love spiritual music because it ministers to my spirit.  It has to be songs with an encouraging and empowering message.  I also like to write.  Writing is therapy for me and it also is used to empower others.  So after crying out to God for help, I was able to start moving again.  I started moving by faith and not by sight.  I started moving toward the mark of the higher calling.  I realize that my eyes haven’t seen nor my ears have heard ALL that God has planned for me.  There is so much more and it is worth fighting for.  I am fight the good fight!  God’s grace and mercy will carry me, you, your children, and anyone else in need, through the valley.  God’s grace and mercy is sufficient! 

The next time you are in the “Valley” – and there will be a next time - remember that’s when God will communicate to/with you most.  Don’t look for too many others to be there with/for you because you will be let down.  Most people are living in spiritual poverty.  God just may have taken you to the “Valley” so that He can use you to encourage others – but you must first learn how to Encourage Yourself!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbEaftzaFWA 

More importantly, in the midst of journeying through the “Valley,”  praise God anyhow for nothing happens unless God allows it; and God allows all things for our good and for His glory.

Heavenly Father…

Great is your mercy towards me!

Your love and kindness toward me!

Your tender mercies I see day after day!

Always providing for me

Great is your mercies toward me!

WHEN THE EARTH ALL AROUND ME IS SINKING SAND, I GO TO THE ROCK

http://www.bing.com/search?q=i+go+to+the+rock&qs=LS&pq=i+go+to+the+roc&sc=8-15&sp=1&cvid=C8E6C2C1137A4C71B24686F37C386A14&FORM=QBRE&ghc=1

I Go To The Rock

By Whitney Houston

Where do I go when there's nobody else to turn to?
Who do I talk to when nobody wants to listen?
Who do I lean on when there's no foundation stable?

I go to the rock
I know he's able
I go to the rock

I go to the rock for my salvation
I go to the stone that the builders rejected
I run to the mountain and the mountain stands by me

When the Earth all around me is sinking sand
On Christ, the solid rock I stand
When I need a shelter, when I need a friend
I go to the rock

Where do I go, where do I go
When the storms of life are threatening?
Who do I turn to when those winds of sorrow blow?
And is there a refuge in the time of tribulation?

I go to the rock
I know He's able
I go to the rock

I know He's the rock for my salvation
I know He's the stone that the builders rejected
I run to the mountain and the mountain stands by me

When the Earth all around me is sinking sand
On Christ, the solid rock I stand
When I need a shelter, when I need a friend
I go to the rock

I know He's the rock for my salvation
I know He's the stone that the builders rejected
I run to the mountain and the mountain stands by me

When the Earth all around me is sinking sand
On Christ, the solid rock I stand
When I need a shelter, when I need a friend
I go to the rock

I go to the rock
I go to the rock
I go to the rock
I go to the rock

You can go to the rock
You can go to the rock
You can go to the rock
You can go to the rock

I go to the rock
I go to the rock
I go to the rock
I go to the rock

I go to the rock
I go to the rock
I go to the rock
I go to the rock

When the Earth all around me is sinking sand
On Christ, the solid rock I stand
When I need a shelter, when I need a friend
I go to the rock

© RAMBO, DOTTIE
For non-commercial use only.

© Universal Music Publishing Group
For non-commercial use only.

Data from: LyricFind

What Are Spiritual Gifts?

                      

        

There is a serious spiritual warfare going on within life– good verses evil; right verses wrong!  The enemy, adversary, devil, whatever identity you want to attach is a thief.  John 10:10 tells us “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”  So if you are not prepared to battle, then you just may be taken into captivity.   

Pastors/Ministry and Leaders are not educating and empowering people enough.  I pray they will start teaching more about spiritual warfare to truly prepare believers and to encourage people to operate within their gifts.  If you are paying attention to the news, you have noticed the chaos in the world, in the communities, and maybe in your homes.  I call it “devil drama.”  If you review the previous posts, they are pertaining to the spiritual realm.  Hopefully, they will be a reference point for future post referencing the natural/physical realm.

First you should be made aware that everyday life is lived within a spiritual realm, good and evil.  We may function in the natural and see through natural eyes; however there are activities happening all around us within the spiritual realm.  Things that we can’t see or understand unless we have committed our life to God the Father and Jesus the Son whom give specific spiritual gifts.  God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth." John 4:24  In addition, you should know that God will bless those whom He sees fit with spiritual gifts because He wants to equip His people and wants them prepared to walk through the battlefield – and this earth is the battlefield.  God’s word, in 1 Corinthians 12, instructs us Concerning Spiritual Gifts

Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. ² You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. ³ Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

⁴ There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. ⁵ There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. ⁶ There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

⁷ Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.⁸ To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, ⁹ to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, ¹⁰ to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,^[a] and to still another the interpretation of tongues.^[b] 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

Unity and Diversity in the Body

¹² Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. ¹³ For we were all baptized by^[c] one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. ¹⁴ Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.

¹⁵ Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. ¹⁶ And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. ¹⁷ If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? ¹⁸ But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. ¹⁹ If they were all one part, where would the body be? ²⁰ As it is, there are many parts, but one body.

²¹ The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” ²² On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, ²³ and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, ²⁴ while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, ²⁵ so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. ²⁶ If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

²⁷ Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. ²⁸ And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. ²⁹ Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? ³⁰ Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues^[d]? Do all interpret? ³¹ Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.

Love Is Indispensable

And yet I will show you the most excellent way.

Guard Your Heart

"Guard your heart" is easier said then done.  However if we truly realize that our heart determines the course of life, then we would guard our hearts more sincerely.   Not guarding your heart opens the door to emotional hijacking and possible self-destruction.

How can a battered woman guard her heart?
How can a fatherless child guard his heart?

These are two questions that ran through my mind after receiving the recent email below:

"Sorry, I called so late.  I am wondering could I ask you a question?  Do you still talk to XXXXX?  I can't call him anything other than that because he was never there for me.  The only thing I remember about him is how he used beat my mother and barely support me as far as clothing.  He even went to see if I was really his by doing a blood test and that was when I was in 5th grade.  I can remember these things vividly and I would like to give him a piece of my mind for not being responsible enough to be there as a man and tucking his tail like the coward he always was, is, and forever will be in my eyes, nothing but an absolute joke.  He will have to answer to a higher power when the day comes and hopefully will pay the price for doing what he did to my mother and I.  I've had a bad taste in my mouth for a long time now and would absolutely love to spit it all in his face,  I could never find it in my heart to forgive him for scarring all these years.  I would like to tell him that he is a straight clown and that I'm a better father, friend, and mentor to my children then he has ever been in his whole existence.  I have nothing but hate and rage for this man and that's how it forever will be.  Goodnight."

Fathers...men, should realize the impact of their absence from a child's life.  Some children carry thoughts and feelings, such as above, for their entire life.  Many self-destruct while others strive to do better than the absent parent.  Mothers...women, should realize the impact of keeping children away from their fathers.  Children are not toys and should not be used as objects of tug-a-wars.  Please remember children are very fragile and don't know how to guard their hearts - especially from parents and children should not have to guard their hearts when it come to parents.   It should be all about and nothing but LOVE from them and for them.

Unfortunately mutual love between a parent and child is not always the case.  As hard as it may be, in order to be free from the bondage of hate and to be in obedience to God's ten commandments, we still must honor our father and mother so that our days may be longer.  Where there are wrong doings, God will take care of that.  Work toward forgiveness and let God handle the rest for anything less will create a flowing mess.

Matthew 15:4
For God said, 'Honor your father and mother' and 'Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.'

Ephesians 6:2
"Honor your father and mother"--which is the first commandment with a promise--
Leviticus 19:3
"'Each of you must respect your mother and father, and you must observe my Sabbaths. I am the LORD your God.

Deuteronomy 27:16
"Cursed is anyone who dishonors their father or mother." Then all the people shall say, "Amen!"

Are You Facing Your Giants - Internally or Externally?

In days when there is so much chaos surrounding us, I often wonder what is the root of the evil that leads people astray - saying and doing matters of hurt against fellow mankind.  People - prominent - professionals- authoritative are behaving like children who do not know their own minds. Giants' actions are those of the adversary - bullying, killing, dividing, and destroying.  Giants can come in disguise such as alcohol, drugs, sex (lust), abuse, stealing, the love of money (greed), racism - anything which controls you, holds you captive, and leads you astray.  Depending on which side you are dealing, giants are deceptive and can create everlasting chaos in your life and others.  Giants bring about fear, a false sense of power, and all manners of self-destruction - if you allow it.  I make it a habit to look at situations from two perspectives (the natural and the spiritual). When I think about giants, I first think about the story, Jack and the Beanstalk.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fN_C-eGzEEs

During my thinking, I reverted the attention back to me and did a self-assessment.  What are my behaviors?  Am I emotionally or mentally reacting or responding to any of the adversities that I witness?  Am I allowing my mindset to be shaped by the evil and greed that surrounds me?  Is what I am seeing creating a giant within me?  What are my giants and how are they controlling me or keeping me in bondage? Am I running from them thus allowing the giants to forever be on my trail or have I learned to face them?

One of the most famous stories in the Bible is that of  David and Goliath.  David's killing of the giant is recognized as a symbol of good over evil.  (1 Samuel, chapter 17).  What are you doing to destroy evil?  Are you overcoming evil with good?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7AWTRwNyUQ

There is nothing new under the sun.  We all have giants.  The key is learning how to face the giants. We can attempt to learn from other people - but from those whom have overcome the same or similar giant; and in that, we must remember that no two situations are exactly the same.  I, personally, have gravitated toward sitting at the feet of the elder.  Most of them have lived a life which has equipped them with wisdom.  They have lived through life's experiences and learned from them.  If they reference the Bible - which is the foundation of learning wisdom, I feel confident in the guidance I am given.  Psalms 37:30 states, "The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom and his tongue speaks what is just."  Wisdom is justified by works.  True wisdom knows the necessities for the real reason of ...Wise people accepts both sides of truth in obeying the call to repentance and faith in the Saviour.  Wise people realize they can not face their giants alone.  They must take God with them.

Handling Difficult Circumstances

How do you handle difficult circumstances?  Difficult circumstances can involve you directly or indirectly.  It can be a result of your choices or someone else's choices.  Just recently I was thrown into having to handle a difficult circumstance.  An adult son whom have never given me any problems -whether it was being in the wrong place at the wrong time, linking with the wrong person, or simple making a bad choice - triggered PTSD within me and took me back 10 years.  As a result, during those trails and tribulations, I wrote and published A Mother's Cry: He's Still My Child.  I thought I was over situations such as this.  The recent situation caught me off guard and I felt as if a bomb had been dropped on me.  My heart ached.  I cried.  For a couple of days, I was walking around in a daze.  I, literally, was emotionally hijacked.  But then, I quickly came to my spiritual senses.  I realized that nothing happens unless God allows it and He allows it for His purpose.  I don't understand the whys and what for, but I do understand that the difficult situation is a reality and I had to "handle" it so that I could empower others in handling it.  I also understand that God will not put no more on me than what He knows I can bare.  Through it all, God will never leave me nor forsake me.  

If I was going to "handle" this difficult circumstance decently and in order, I knew that I would have to walk in faith and keep my eyes, mind, and heart within the spiritual perspective.  For me, any other way, would oppress me, place me in bondage, and could make the situation worse than what it already is.  I quickly  removed myself from negative people, negative energy, and anything that was not uplifting me.  I called out to the positive and empowering people in my life, my fellow prayer warriors, and drew closer to God...just like Jesus did in the garden, out on the boat, and on the mount.  Praise God from whom all blessings flow, I received what I needed to continue to press forward.  May you be blessed through my pain...my experience...spiritual words of empowerment sent my way as a daily devotion by First Lady Patricia Ogden of Hill Street Baptist Church, Asheville, NC.

Handling Difficult Circumstances

Focus on Christ instead of the circumstances—God will comfort your heart and bring you safely through the trial.

Philippians 3:8-11

The apostle Paul understood how to handle tough circumstances. Even while confined in a prison cell, he kept his eyes on Christ and trusted firmly in the Savior. Therefore, despite being in chains, he was able to celebrate the Lord’s work in his life. In fact, the epistle he wrote from jail to the Philippians was filled with rejoicing and praise (Philippians 1:18; Philippians 2:18; Philippians 3:1).

Focusing on Christ is neither a natural reaction nor an easy one. Our instinct is to dwell on the situation at hand, searching for solutions or stewing over the pain and difficulty. As a result, troubles look insurmountable and overwhelm us with a sense of failure.

However, fear and defeat can’t live long in a heart that trusts the Lord. I’m not saying you will forget what you’re going through, but you can choose to dwell on His provision and care instead. He is the Deliverer (2 Corinthians 1:10). He is the Healer (Jeremiah 17:14). And He is the Guide (Proverbs 3:6). The believer who lays claim to divine promises discovers that God pushes back negative emotions. In their place, hope, confidence, and contentment take up residence (Philippians4:11). You aren’t going to be happy about any difficult situation, but you can be satisfied that God is in control and up to something good in the midst of trouble.

The Lord’s principles and promises don’t change, no matter how severe or painful the situation is. Focus on Christ instead of the circumstances—God will comfort your heart and bring you safely through the trial. Then you will be ready to answer Paul’s call to “rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4).