Some Problems You Just Have To GROW Into!!

 

Remember when you were a child and your parents bought you clothes that were two sizes too big! No matter how much you complained: They don't fit right! They make me look goofy!  I feel stupid!  Their response was always the same - Quit your whining... YOU'LL GROW INTO THEM!

I've found in many cases, this is a good way to look at our trials.  We can't do much about them so we might as well learn how to grow into them...Spiritually that is!

James 1:2-4 says this: Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

The words perfect and complete in this scripture means to be entirely whole with no part wanting or unsound. A body without blemish or defect.  In other words to be spiritually mature!  

Here lies the problem for most of us.  Trials overwhelm us. They feel a lot like walking around in clothes that are too big.  Indeed they ARE!  But like Jesus' own disciples we have to learn to grow in our faith.  Pain, disappointments, and confusion are natural occurrences in a Believer's life.  Don't believe me?  Here are some examples from the New Testament:

WORRY AND STRESS

Photo by Anh Nguyen on Unsplash

Mary and Martha are two sisters familiar to bible readers.  They loved Jesus but had no problem being emotionally vulnerable in front of Him.  Unlike some Christians  they didn't hide their spiritual weaknesses with fake smiles and religious platitudes.  What they felt, they felt deeply and expressed it openly to the Lord.  

In Luke 10 Jesus and His twelve disciples made an unexpected visit to their home around meal time. The customary preparations could have been easily handled by two skilled women, but Martha found herself shouldering most of the responsibility.  Sister Mary was sitting at the Master's feet enjoying the stimulating conversation.  When Martha complained to Jesus, His words echoed across the ages to the ears of today's  squabbling siblings.  Stop Your Whining! (my translation). 

 [click here to read His actual words] Luke 10:41

PERSONAL TRAUMA

Photo by Martin Lostak on Unsplash

One would be hard pressed to find another person in the bible who went through as much trauma as the Apostle Paul.  From the moment of his spiritual conversion physical ailments ravaged his bodies.  After he was healed from blindness, a suffering of another kind set in.  He was shunned by other Christians. (Acts 9:26-28)  Talk about Church Hurt! When the Spirit led him on three missionary journeys it only got worse.  He describes his ordeals in 2 Corinthians 11:21-28  [click here] Paul's Sufferings

In spite of it all, Paul finished the work God gave him. His problems didn't make him bitter but better!  In the next chapter we find a spiritually mature Paul making this powerful statement regarding what is called his Thorn in the Flesh: Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, "my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.  Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." (2 Corinthians 12:8-9) 

EMOTIONAL INSECURITY

Photo by Stormseeker on Unsplash

Inside our minds and hearts is a person most people would never meet unless forced by external circumstances.  Fear, pride, and self consciousness lurks there. But this is where the Spirit of the Lord does His greatest work.  Most of us can identify with the disciples in Mark 4:38-40.   Raging winds in storms can easily bring panic and thoughts of pending devastation.  With Jesus by our side, we feel emboldened and believe we can conquer anything.  But sense His absence for even a moment and we become like an infant craving His protection.  

The words Jesus spoke to the wind could also be spoken to His disciples in every age.  [click here] Jesus Calms the Storm  In another translation verse 39 reads like this: "Quiet! Be still!   As a loving parent, Jesus whispers those words to each of us when we start to fret about our problems! 

It is easy to whine and complain about difficulties, but it's a lot easier to just lean on Jesus and ask Him to grow us up in the midst of them. (I Peter 5:7)  But don't worry! We'll get there!  Just like those shoes and coats your Mama forced you to wear.  One day, they'll fit JUST RIGHT!

UNTIL NEXT TIME

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.  

DELIVER US FROM EVIL...

 

(photo by Daniel Lincoln on Unsplash)

"There is no future for a people who deny their past!"

               Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.

It's no secret that carnal man has an unpleasant relationship with the truth.  There's something innate that causes him to suppress what is valid and could not be dismissed if only faced with the clear eyes of righteousness.  Yet time and time again, when given a choice, the choice made is to deny!

Not long ago a Denialist (One who denies the existence, truth, or validity of something despite proof or strong evidence) limited himself to select doctrines or dogma.  It seemed to lean frequently toward the religious, but now extends over many disciplines, i.e. media, science, education, etc.  That's what I believe we're seeing today!

I'd just begun to wrap my head around the notion of C.R.T. (Critical Race Theory) being harmful to children if taught in schools, when another controversy arose over whether the Holocaust should be presented in a less violent way.  

Tell me how you do that? 

During WWII six million Jews (men, women and children) were murdered, starved, gassed, and the gold  taken out of their teeth to fill Hitler's treasury! 

And don't get me started on America's historic legacy of violence and injustice.  We've always been a bloody nation! Indeed, much of America's wealth was built on the backs of Black Slavery and the poor in our society.  It's not anything to be proud of, for sure, but it shouldn't be denied. 

As to Blacks, this term  - The Peculiar Institution should give you pause.  It is a euphemism illustrating a well-defined organization of cheap human labor and its economic benefits.  This alone belies the claim of those who say racism and injustice in the U.S. is NOT systemic.  Clearly some folks don't know their own history.

According to historian, Henry Louis Gates, during the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade (16th-19th century)  12.5 million Africans were shipped to the New World. 10.7 million survived the Middle Passage disembarking in North America, the Caribbean and South America.  In America, upon emancipation, approximately 3.9 million people became legally free.  Legislation had to put in place to assure they were not forced back into servitude after the devastation caused by the Civil War!

 Deniers DO NOT want this taught in our schools!

Like so much of the world's evil crimes against humanity, some would rather deny it  than deal with this ugly and uncomfortable truth: There is no one righteous--not even one! (Romans 3:10) The carnal, corrupt, and selfish man that we are is quick to cry out to God in prayer: Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil... (Matthew 6:13)  BUT WHAT IF THE EVIL IS YOU!?

We would ALL love to protect our children from Evil!  But it's TOO LATE! They have SEEN  too much, HEARD too much! This is the double-edged sword of modern technology, telephones, television, and social media  The damage has already been done! 

WHAT WE CAN DO IS TEACH THEM TRUTH AND RESPONSIBILITY! The two are not mutually exclusive!  They CAN STILL exist at the same time if we do what is GOOD, JUST, AND RIGHT:  He has told you, O man, what is good and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8)

Taking responsibility does not make you any less of an American or a Patriot! It doesn't mean that acknowledging our nation's sinful past should cripple or paralyze you with false guilt! But neither should it blind you to truth! The evil that is before us cannot stand if we simply take heed to what Scripture has been telling us all along:

WE ARE ALL RESPONSIBLE!

Here it is in a nutshell: Just as one person [Adam] did it wrong and got us in all this trouble with sin and death. Another person [Jesus] did it right and got us out of it. But more than just getting us out of trouble, He got us into life!  (Romans 5:19 Message Bible) [My emphasis in brackets] 

NO MAN IS BETTER THAN ANOTHER!

Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don't think you are better than you really are.  Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. (Romans 12:3 NLT)

GOD IS JUST AND WE ALL WILL PAY!

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you. (Psalm 89:14) But woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone. (Luke 11:42)

CANCEL CULTURE DOES NOT APPLY HERE!  We can no longer allow what is embarrassing, distasteful, or politically inconvenient to prevent us from mobilizing, unifying and hopefully garnering strength to salvage the threads of hope still remaining in the hearts of generations coming behind us!

 IGNORANCE MY DEAR FRIENDS IS NO  LONGER BLISS!

UNTIL NEXT TIME

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.  

The ULTIMATE Tell-All Book!

 

As a voracious reader, it blows my mind the number of books published each year.  One source, UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization) cited 2.2 million new titles worldwide.  And that's old data!

Among the most popular it seems are those scandalous Tell-All books.  Say what you want about the political upheaval we've been experiencing in the U.S., it's certainly been good for the book publishing industry and their authors. 

 Seems like a new one is coming out every month.  Everyone wants to know the inside scoop behind all those media headlines.  The juicier the better!  What's a Tell-All book?   Well,  obviously the term speaks for itself but just to make it official here's one definition.

Tell-All: A biography or memoir that reveals intimate details about its subject.   [Oxford Dictionary]

I'm no Book Influencer like Oprah (I once heard that a title added to her Book Club list makes copies fly off the store shelf.  It's called The Oprah Effect!) but here's a Tell-All book you've just got to try.....THE BIBLE!  

I had to re-check my sources but the following is STILL TRUE:

"The Bible is the best-selling book of all time, having sold around 5 billion copies to date...is also the most translated book in human history."  [alltopeverything.com]

Yes, Indeed!  It comes in hardback, paperback, kindle, audible, braille, and just about any format you can think of and you know what?  IT'S 100% TRUE!  No need for FACT CHECKING, just read and enjoy!  Uh huh!  I knew it!  You just had a flash back to Sis. So and So's Sunday school class back in the day! 

Bible reading as you recall back then was s-o-o-o-o boring! All those  thee's, thou's and whithersoevers made it hard to understand and relate to what was going on! NOT ANY MORE! You can find God's Word in a translation and at a reading level to fit your personal style.  As for the YAWN FACTOR, if you want a TELL-ALL, the Bible is the best one on the market! 

Sex, crime, greed, and complicated family relationships run from the Old to the New Testament. Everything from serial killers to political empire take-downs.  Just to whet your appetite, start with the life of Joseph (Genesis chapters 37-50).  King David's tumultuous reign (I and II Samuel).  The escapades of evil Queen Jezebel (I and II Kings) and the heroic battles of Joshua (Book of Joshua ).

But more than its historical and literary value and all those titillating back stories of the lives of others, there is a SPIRITUAL value that outweighs them all.  This great TELL-ALL book tells US ABOUT OURSELVES! 

📖  It is a MIRROR of our hearts: James 1:23 -25 (click here). 

📖  It is a GPS for our souls: Psalm 119:105 (click here)

📖   It is THERAPY for our minds: Philippians 4:8 (click here)

 And, if this is not enough, think of how COST-EFFECTIVE it is!  ONE BOOK has the following and much, much more!

"All scripture is inspired by God and is useful
to teach us what is true and to make us realize
what is wrong in our lives.  It corrects where we
are wrong and teaches us to do what is right."

[2 Timothy 3:16 NLT]

What a bargain! Seriously, if in a conversation someone asks you if you've heard about the latest TELL-ALL book about a celebrity, why not tell them about THIS ONE!

UNTIL NEXT TIME

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.  

REAL WORLD....This is Not a Test!

In this world you will have tribulation

but be of good cheer for I have overcome

the world. (John 16:33 KJV)

As our nation celebrated the 20th anniversary of 9/11 a common question was asked:  Do you remember where you were September 11, 2001?  Tag lines for the plethora of posters and signs generally included phrases like this:  Never Forget!  We Remember! Gone But Not Forgotten!  

I REMEMBER IT WELL! (You probably do too!)

On a Girls Trip to New York a few years ago, we visited Ground Zero and The National September 11 Memorial and Museum.   It was a sobering and emotionally devastating experience.  I can only imagine the trauma the people in New York must still feel having lived through that horrible day.  But honestly over the past 19 years whenever this anniversary rolls around, I try hard to think about anything BUT that tragic time! I pray for the families who are still grieving and of course ask God for protection from future attacks but because so many tragedies are still occurring, it is almost overshadowed in my opinion!

However, it is because of this fact, that I paid more attention to the memorials this year.  Especially the ones that featured human interest stories.  As I viewed documentaries,  I saw the endless piles of rubble and firefighters digging through the stench looking for remains. I saw pain still visible 20 years later on the faces of loved ones and young adult children who grew up not knowing a parent who perished that day.   

I listened closely to the newly released live recordings, text messages, calls, and air traffic communication of those in the air planes that crashed into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon! I felt the panic and bewilderment of the flight crew, air traffic controllers, and military units trying to figure out where the attacks were coming from and what their next targets might be.  Out of the three to four hours of coverage I watched, one statement by an air traffic controller struck me to my core, he said: 

"IS THIS REAL WORLD OR A TEST!?"

To enhance national security, the military and commercial airlines routinely conduct simulations of hijackings.  These are training exercises to test the preparedness of all involved should a genuine hijacking take place. These tests are done with limited warning and all protocols are followed with speed and precision just as if it was really happening.  

September 11 was Real World Not A Test for our nation!  So is COVID-19,  the January 6 Insurrection, Escalating crime, Eviction crises and Voter disfranchisement!  Failed infrastructures (aeronautic, military, and social) show we are NOT prepared!!  But how prepared are you? Where will you be when the next tragedy strikes!

This is no Doom and Gloom message, only a Spiritual Alert to make sure you have the proper tools whenever another hits!!  Maybe this will help!

YOUR DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 

CHECK LIST! 

1.  New World Reservations Made (Eternal Security)  _____ 

          John 3:16

2.  Support Network in Place (Prayer warriors) _____ 

        James 5:13-16

3.  Military Gear Accessible and Fully Equipped  (Armor of God) _____ 

        Ephesians 6:10-18

4.  Tactical Guide Handy (Bible verses memorized ) _____ 

         Psalm 119:105

5.  Survival Kit Packed (water, food, first aid, purification) _____

        John 4:13-14 

        John 6:35

        James 5:13-15

        I John 1:9

        

 6.  Mental Alertness Recently Tested (Enemy Reconnaissance)  _____ 

         I Peter 5:8   

 7.  Mental Sustenance Intact (Hope)   _____

        Hebrews 11:1

 

!UNTIL NEXT TIME

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.  

FAITH: A Shot in the Arm We All Need!

 

"But without faith, it's impossible to please God,"

(Hebrews 11:6 KJV)

SMH - Shaking my head this morning over the increasing deaths and hospitalizations from those infected with COVID 19!  I don't care which side of the debate you're on (vaccinations/no vaccinations - masks/no masks) this stuff is real and people are dying out here!  You might not want the COVID 19 vaccine but we ALL could use a Booster Shot of Faith!

This post is for anyone who cares to read it, but being transparent, I'm hoping to get the ear of my sisters and brothers in Christ.  The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has set forth some pretty basic guidelines.  You can choose to follow them or not. This is free will.  The Creator gave it to ALL mankind but it's especially relevant for Christians.  I came across the following recently and it made me think.  Free will doesn't mean I do whatever I want. It means I have the freedom to do what is right!

In any case,  free will is a wonderful but risky gift from the Lord.  Wonderful because unlike His other creations we have a choice.  Risky because we've proven over and over how foolishly we can abuse it!  Sisters and Brothers I beg you - stop using this gift irresponsibly!  Here are some facts straight from the bible we can stand on,

OUR FAITH WILL BE TESTED!

 I have Christian family and friends who span the spectrum of debate. I bet you do too.  This is post is not to beat them into submission one way or the other.  I love them dearly and respect their decisions.  I just want to share with you some of their arguments.  If you've heard others, put them in the comments box: 

a)  THOSE FOR IT - I want to be a good steward. God has made this vaccine available like so many others to help preserve my health. I have faith in God that it will do what it's suppose to do.

b) THOSE AGAINST IT - I don't trust the government. It was developed too fast. I heard it causes autism.  I heard on social media....  My faith tells me when it's my time to die, I'll die, until then I'm trusting God will keep me safe.

c)  THOSE WOULD IF I COULD - I am under a doctor's care and advised not to for health reasons.  I follow all other precautions, putting my faith in God for protection and safety from this and other diseases.

 What do you see in each answer?  A decision was made based on the premise of FAITH!  But exactly what kind of faith? 

OUR FAITH CAN BE MEASURED!  

 Searching the gospels, people from all walks of life came to Jesus with urgent requests.  I found it interesting how often the requestor had to exercise some level of faith before Christ responded. They didn't walk around waiting to be blessed - they had to actually DO SOMETHING FIRST!! Here are a few examples:

💜Matthew 12:10-13 -  Jesus heals a Withered Hand  One Sabbath a  man with a shriveled hand was brought to Jesus to heal. It was a set up by the Pharisees to see if He would break the Jewish law.  Jesus told the man (vs. 13) Stretch out your hand. So he stretched it out and it was completely restored, just as sound as the other.  Omnipotent Jesus could have easily touched the man or simply spoken a word. Healing would come.  But even this cripple man had to make the effort. We don't know if he did it in fear or in pain but in anticipation of healing, the man stretched out his hand!

💜 John 11:20-23 - Jesus raises Lazarus Martha's encounter with Jesus after the death of her brother Lazarus is a familiar story. After four days in the grave, decay had begun and even Jesus' own disciples doubted anything could be done. Yet Martha had a strong belief that all was not lost.  (vs. 21) Lord, Martha said to Jesus, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. (vs 22) But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask. Jesus asked only one thing of her. (vs 27) Do you believe this. She believed and Lazarus walked out of that tomb.

💜 John 2:1-11 - Jesus turns water to wine  Mary mentions to Jesus that more wine is needed for this important event. In spite of an ambiguous response from Jesus, she tells the servants (vs 5) - Do whatever He tells you. Jesus then gave a simple command.  (vs.7) Fill the jars with water; so they filled them to the brim. (vs.) Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet. They did so. Mary had faith that Jesus would respond and took the first step. The servants obeyed which was the second step. You know the end of the story.  Trust and Obey is more than just a song we sing!

FAITH WILL BE REWARDED!

Here's the bottom line dear Christian friends. Wherever you stand on this debatable issue, your faith is on display for the world and your family to see.  It is a life and death decision for us all.   Only God knows how well it will stand up to the devastating events in life we face.  Just remember this:

Little Faith hopes God will do it!

 Strong faith knows that He will!

Great faith says its already done! 

IF YOU CAN GET VACCINATED DO SO!  IF YOU CHOOSE NOT TO, WEAR MASKS, KEEP YOUR DISTANCE AND ABOVE ALL STOP DISCOURAGING OTHERS WITH LIES AND UNCONFIRMED STORIES! 

UNTIL NEXT TIME...

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.  

LORD, PLEASE STOP THIS WORLD....I Want to Get Off!!

The World's State of Mind!

"For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, 

but is from the world." (I John 2:16) 

Hello Readers,  It's been awhile since I've posted a blog.  I had to take a Social Media Sabbatical to tend to some pressing business called LIFE!  I know you feel me and no doubt have done something similar yourself in the past.  Sometimes for your mental and spiritual health you just have to SHUT IT DOWN!  DIAL IT BACK!   AND SIMPLY TAKE A BREAK!     

Still, a few good things have been happening since my last post!  After about a year, I went back to regular in-person worship with my church family and man have I been blessed!  A good message from the Lord will feed your soul no matter where you are, but there's nothing like sharing a spiritual meal with other saints.  My only grandson graduated high school and is now a student at a university a couple hours away so tears, open houses, and lots of reminiscing took place.  And one other little thing, the Love of My Life and I celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary!  

I needed these high points in my life as I again try to provide relevant commentary via this blog to what I observe from a spiritual perspective.  I call it my CHRISTIAN 'WOKE' MINISTRY, to use a popular term.   My goal is to provide biblical context and spiritual encouragement to my sisters and brothers in this growing chaotic world and to WAKE UP  saints to what's really going on with the Enemy and his cohorts!

For example, read the following scriptures, then follow up with recent headliners from popular media to see what God is saying about our current world events!

The World's State of Affairs!

"These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies and one who sows discord among the brethren." (Proverbs 6:16-19)

💀 PRIDE -"Richard Branson Beats Jeff Bezos in Billionaire Space Race" (NBC News July 13, 2021)

        

Have you ever wondered if a person could have too much money?  This escapade seems to be a good example. Psalm 24:1 say: The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof, the world, and they that dwell therein.  James 1:17: Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." Everything we possess as humans come from the Lord and we are to be a good steward of these resources.  Branson and Bezos will be held accountable for this vast waste while so many are suffering from hunger, sickness, and despair. I hope in eternity when they face Jesus that they will recall what their pride cost them and if it was worth the price they had to pay!

               

💀 LIES - "Many Americans Embrace Falsehoods About Critical Race Theory" (Reuters  July 15, 2021)

It's hard to know where to start when recounting the many lies told over the past four years. Truth is of such rarity and when presented, so vehemently disavowed that it is mind-boggling the stupidity of it all!  LIES: A former president is STILL president, although a new one is in place and doing all the work! Vaccines are bad for you WHILE those who are not vaccinated are infected and dying at a faster rate than the vaccinated.   Negative history past or present is NOT HISTORY but political propaganda!  Why such denial even in the face of undeniable truth? Why are so many "Shaken" by it? Are they afraid they won't pass this litmus test from the scriptures?: 

 "Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? Who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.  He who does these things will never be shaken.The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur"  (Psalm 15:1-3)  

💀 VIOLENCE- "2020 was the deadliest Gun Violence year in decades.  So far, 2021 is Worse" (Washington Post,  July 14, 2021) 

Let's stop denying it!  We are living in a gun culture.  People would rather sell their first born than give up their guns and many are literally doing that! Don't take my word for it,  just turn on the news, any day and any time, almost anywhere in these United States.  We shouldn't be surprised: Jesus spoke boldly about the use of violence to settle disputes: "Then said Jesus unto him (Peter), Put up again thy sword into his place; for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. (Matthew 26:52).  "Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God."(Matthew 5:9) The solution to gun control is not the passing of more Gun Laws but heart control and only the Holy Spirit can control the heart! "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law! (Galatians 5:22-23)

💀 WICKED PLANS AND EVIL PLOTS - "Suspects in Haitian President's Killing Met to Plan a Future Without Him". (The New York Times, July 15, 2021)

Assassinations of political leaders are as old as the Bible times.  Just look at the Old Testament books of First and Second Kings for a start.  Haiti is just a recent occurrence. In my own teen years, I can recall three: President John Kennedy, Rev. Martin Luther King, and U.S. Attorney General, Robert Kennedy.  Since then there have been other attempts.  Any country rife with crime, injustice  violence, and socio-political instability is a prime target for such behavior and sadly we are one of them.  Expect more of the same as the Second Coming of the Lord nears!  "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people."(Proverbs 14:34)  Also, " When the righteous is in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked bearer rule, the people mourn." (Proverbs 29:2)

💀 SOWING DISCORD - "McConnell Seeks to Divide and Conquer Democrats"(the hill.com June 13, 2021)

To find our government in such disarray is heart wrenching even for a Christian who knows that the only Ruling Authority in this world is Jesus Christ. The discord between our governing bodies: Republicans and Democrats, House and Senate, The Supreme Court and Congress is shameful. Our designated ruling bodies have lost their way!  Instead of representing the interests of the people they are selfishly trying to preserve their own positions of power. The strategy that seems to be working is to divide, derail and deny culpability for all their misdeeds.

Yet,  government has a place and purpose in God's plan.  Paul says so in Romans 13:1, 3-5 -"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil.  Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same; for he is the minister of God to thee forged. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bearer not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to executioner to execute wrath upon him that doth evil. 

I don't know about you but I've stopped trying to make sense of all this NONSENSE! I've not yet given up ALL HOPE but when I  cry out! LORD,  PLEASE STOP THIS WORLD'S NONSENSE.   I'm being sincere.  This old adage is true and although most recall it from Malcom X first, it goes back much further!  FOR AMERICA, 'THE CHICKENS HAVE COME HOME TO ROOST!' meaning all our past arrogance, greed, and grasping for power has returned to bring us down  in the eyes of the world, I just hope it BRINGS US TO OUR KNEES IN REPENTANCE!

UNTIL NEXT TIME...

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.  

THE FIRE NEXT TIME: Can We Afford to Wait?

If the title of this post caught your eye, it's probably because it rendered thoughts of James Baldwin's 1963 novel, The Fire Next Time,  published by Dial Press or perhaps the 2015 inspired work by Ta-Nehisi Coates, Between The World and Me, published by One World.  

I suggest you read both.

I thought it intriguing that the authors, both black men were giving their analysis of race relations in America 52 years apart (one at the birth of the Civil Rights Movement and the other struggling in its aftermath) describing the same issues.  It can't get more relevant than this!  No, not as we sit in front row seats viewing the George Floyd murder trial; video after video of  the assaults and deaths of black men by police or the relentless attempts by senators and representatives to roll back the basic rights and privileges of people of color in America.  

By all means, read Baldwin and Coates, but also read two other great authors, the Apostle Peter of the New Testament and Moses of the Old Testament for greater understanding of what is really happening:         

Above all, you must understand that in the last days, scoffers will come,

scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, 

"where is this 'coming' he promised?  Ever since our ancestors

died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.

But they deliberately forget that long ago by God's word the

heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water

and by water.  By this waters also the world of that time was

deluged and destroyed.  By the same word the the present heavens

and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of 

judgment and destruction of the ungodly.

(2 Peter 3-7 NIV)

Peter is simply saying that God destroyed the world once because of its corruption, violence and unbridled wickedness (Genesis 6:11-13) but showed mercy and allowed its renewal in grace. He chose one man, Noah and his three sons: Ham, Shem, and Japheth.  The offsprings of these sons, scholars believe are the progenitors of all the ethnic groups of the world today. (These same ethnic groups that are killing each other!) 

With renewed hope, mankind was allowed to live out God's original promise, sealed eternally with a rainbow as a sign, and a covenant from God, Himself.  This hope of peace, civility, wisdom, and acceptance among humankind is quickly fading away.

Maybe the following will refresh memories as we rush foolishly into what can only be described as self-annihilation!

Then God said to Noah and to his sons with him: ...

Never again will all life be destroyed by the waters 

of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy

the earth.   And this is the sign of the covenant I am making  

between me and you and every living creature with you, 

a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow

 in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant

between me and the earth.

 Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow

appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant 

 between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. 

 Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life.

(Genesis 9:8;11-15)

The implication here is that, when God's patience has worn thin, as it did in the days of Noah and He decides to exercise His vengeance on the earth; that it will not be by water....but fire! This is corroborated in Malachi 4:1; 2 Peter 3;7; and Revelation 21:1.  Bible skeptics in the past have found it difficult to see current events in light of bible prophecy.  I wonder if they find it so when once again, children are murdered in their beds.  A trip to the supermarket for ice cream results in a return ride in a hearse.  Who would believe that NOT having a rear license plate on your car or HAVING an air freshener on your rearview mirror would be cause for being pepper sprayed and humiliated or shot in the front seat of your car.

Is this how we repay God's mercy and grace?  
Will our past sins continue to ruin our future?
Is this how we keep hope alive for our children?

🔥🔥🔥

A PROPHETIC UTTERANCE BY JAMES BALDWIN
 [Emphasis is mine!]

“It demands great spiritual resilience not to hate the hater whose
foot is on your neck, and an even greater miracle of 
perception and charity not to teach your child to hate."

― James Baldwin, The Fire Next Time

🔥🔥🔥

PRAY FOR GOD'S PEACE IN JUSTICE NOW...WE CAN'T AFFORD TO WAIT!!!

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.  

Finding Your TRUE Identity in the GREAT I AM!!

 

IDENTITY: Who a person is, or the qualities of a person or group that make them different from others. - Cambridge Dictionary

******

One of my favorite quotes, comes from a 1984 movie starring Howard Rollins, Jr. and Denzel Washington--A Soldier's Story!  One of the characters, C. J. Memphis is berated by the protagonist, Sergeant Waters and sheepishly says nothing to defend himself!

After, Waters makes his exit, C.J.'s army comrades begin to harass him, asking why he took the beat down so casually!  With all the wisdom and empathy of his backwoods training, he replies...

"Any man ain't sure where he belong,
gotta be in a whole lotta pain!"

My friends, I guess a lot of people are in pain! I see people everywhere, EVEN Christians who don't   know where they belong!  Some are on the wrong side of history in their socio-political views!  Too many on the wrong side of the Bible in their cultural habits and life styles.  I get it!  Life is hard....the struggle is REAL! And like C.J. Memphis, I too, want to be empathetic but I grapple with conflicting emotions.  Sometimes I'm outraged.  Sometimes defensive.  But mostly I'm confused!  

Reading through the Gospel of John, something my pastor challenged our church to do during Lent; I found a simple way to affirm OUR TRUE IDENTITY and KNOW WHERE WE BELONG! 

No Psychologist, Sociologist, or Life Coach Required
Only The Great I AM

🔎 I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE (John 6:35) - Our identity is NOT in our job, career, or work ethic.  Although, colloquially speaking, money and financial security is based on how much bread we make; Jesus tells us in this verse that He is our Sustainer. Our livelihood has always been secured in God's will and grace! He is our Provider. He reminds us, as He did Satan during the temptation that, Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4).  Material things will never satisfy the heart of carnal man, only spiritual bread will suffice!  

🔎 I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD (John 8:12) -Our identity is NOT in belonging to secret societies.  Over the past six years mainstream media has been engulfed with the antics of conspiracy theorists.  They claim to have knowledge that is privileged and secretly coded in a way that only the very intuitive can decipher.  These theorists are extremely popular as they prey on the ignorant and the lonely. They were around at Jesus' first coming and they will exist until He comes back again.  But we do not have to be duped by this form of evil in the world.  Jesus IS the LIGHT and the WAY out of this darkness all we have to do is follow Him.  (John 3:19; I John 1:7).

🔎 I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD AND DOOR (John 10:9, 11) - Our identity is NOT in our achievements, academic degrees, or credentials. All these things depend on our own intelligence and abilities.  It is better to put your trust in Jesus, like a sheep does with its shepherd.  Sheep depend on the shepherd for food, guidance, health, and protection.  They are not hunters!  There's no stress, competition, or wrangling for power with sheep because they know they're going to be taken care of. They sleep well at night without fear because the Shepherd is the DOOR.  Jesus. our Good Shepherd shows us the same care. We will always remain relevant and valuable to Him because we are the Good Shepherd's loving priority.

🔎 I AM THE RESURRECTION AND LIFE (John 11:25) - Our identity is NOT in living large in this life but having peace and joy in the After life.  Million dollar homes, luxury cars, bling for days. Personal chefs, stylist, and hair dressers available at your beck and call.  This is what some call the Good Life!  But is it?  The suicide rate and drug addiction among those living this life is astronomical.  What many have found is that amid all the glamorous trappings their lives were actually dead! They were like zombies only going through the motion.  BUT JESUS!  He came that we may have true life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10).  When the dead things of this world has ceased, Jesus promises us another that is filled with hope. Glorified bodies that will not know pain or death.  Mansions that won't need security cameras. Relationships that are authentic and lasting. Instead of red carpets, we'll walk every day on gold, encased in precious jewels.  This is a life worth waiting for!

🔎 I AM THE WAY, TRUTH AND LIFE (John 14:6) - Our identity is NOT in a position, title, gender or sexual preference. It is very human to desire what is pleasurable to the flesh and feeds the ego (I John 2:15-16). The god of this world knows this! So he twist these desires in a way that is not only acceptable but deemed normal.  But a Lie is never normal! With his limited power, Satan places aberrations in positions of authority or celebrity to make them appealing to the darkened mind. He then creates division among  Christians, pitting groups exalting their natural heritage against those who cling to their spiritual one in order to weaken our Spiritual witness!

🔎 I AM THE TRUE VINE (John 15:1) - Our identity is NOT in our on-line persona, or social media connections.  Working hard for the perfect selfie; staging backgrounds for a more interesting and appealing image, doesn't mean others think you are! Jesus tells us that we make our best impression when we stay Connected to Him. We do this through reading, studying, and meditating on His Word and sincere prayer.   Do your really want to know how you are perceived? Forget your natural face and look intently into the Word  (James 1:22-25). See yourself as God sees you (I Corinthians 13:12) not the dull, blurry images of shares and likes!

YOUR IDENTITY IS NOT IN ANY OF THE ABOVE SO LET GOD TELL YOU WHO YOU ARE...

You are a chosen people,
a royal priesthood,
a holy nation, God's holy nation,
God's special possession,
that you may declare the praises of Him
who called you out of darkness 
into His wonderful light.

(I Peter 2:9)

 

UNTIL NEXT TIME...

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.  

A GOVERNMENT YOU CAN TRUST: It's Not Just About Politics!

The Biblical Role of Civil Government

To maintain a safe, just, righteous, and compassionately responsible environment for freedom to flourish - Dr. Tony Evans, Kingdom Politics Sermon Series 

With the world watching, 43 U.S. senators voted to acquit and 57 senators voted to convict a former president of the United States on charges of insurrection.  Sixty-seven votes, a two-thirds majority was needed for a conviction.  Although those who voted to acquit admitted the evidence was factual; the president was guilty; his actions and conduct despicable even dangerous to U.S. citizens and this country...they acquitted him any way!

SOMETHING IS REALLY  WRONG 

 IN AMERICA....BUT SHOULD WE BE SURPRISED!?

Humans have been trying to get it right....this idea of human government for thousands of years and we've botched it every time.  

For quite some time, I've been juggling mainstream media with the Word of God to gain insight into this political mess we find ourselves in.  This is my way of managing my emotions and keeping a godly focus. What I’m finding is that the parallels between present day events and bible history are astonishing! 

BIBLE REWIND:  I Samuel chapters 8-10. God's people, the Israelites make a power move that puts them on a course of unending failure and disappointment.  Disillusioned with theocracy (a government ruled by priests or judges in the name of God) they ask for a king (I Samuel 8:1-5). They wanted a political system of government in which a person or family ruled--a monarchy.

They felt they had good reasons to complain.  After all, time and time again they were on the losing end of leadership failures of every kind (see the Book of Judges). Even their current leaders, sons of Samuel the priest were immoral and corrupt.  Yet their belief in  flawed humans rather than God remained unshakable.  And like today, their faith it turned out to be a case of false hope.   A sick heart  just doesn't get better without repentance (Jeremiah 17:9). 

 

BE CAREFUL WHO YOU VOTE FOR!

In the Bible you'll see that God granted their wish, but as usual the people chose unwisely. They wanted someone who fit their ideal rather than God's.  They wanted status, social, and economic stability regardless of the cost (I Samuel 8:11-20)  They chose Saul, someone who later became so consumed with power that he turned into a maniac. His behavior became so erratic and outrageous that God rejected him as king. He refused to accept this decision and spiraled down into a cesspool of anger, lies, and deceit. (I Samuel 18-20)  Sound familiar?

God replaced Saul with David, a man after His own heart (I Samuel 13:14). But David’s reign like all others after him were traumatic with much political fall-out!  The Old Testament records David's failures as well as those of every king that followed.  David's abuse of power and struggles with pride are well known but far from rare. (II Samuel  3:1-39; 12:7; and I Chronicles 21:6).  Even his own son plotted an insurrection against his kingdom (II Samuel 15:1-20:22).

FAST FORWARD TO THE PRESENT:  Debates continue between proponents of bigger government (too intrusive and liberal for conservatives' taste) and those wanting smaller government in order to protect their personal rights and freedoms but are not as diverse ethnically or economically. Which is best for our country?  Neither side has demonstrated they can solve the societal ills entrenched in our nation’s history.  The angry and sometimes violent protests shown last year tell us that people are frustrated on both sides. 

Truth is getting harder and harder to recognize.  Promises made to get our vote rarely kept. And everyone is pushing some kind of hidden political agenda. Look again at Tony Evans’ definition of the Biblical role of civil government. To maintain an environment of peace, righteousness, compassion, and freedom.  So far we've seen very little of this in our government but don't be discouraged.

 THE WORLD'S GETTING READY FOR A BIG REVEAL!

There is a government coming that can be trusted --It is the 1000 year Millennial Reign of Jesus Christ. It has only one Ruler, the Lord Jesus Christ.  It is not dominated by any particular political party, only those He chooses to reign with Him.  There is no need for P.A.C.s, ( political action committees) to raise money or awareness for special interests. No courts or protest marches to litigate practices of injustice because all will be treated fairly.  There will be prevailing peace because Satan will be bound the entire time.  People will be healthier, the environment cleaner, and everyone will be held accountable for their actions!  

(Click the link below for more information and scriptures.)

Summary of Millennial Kingdom

What we are experiencing now is not as historically shocking as portrayed.  It was prophesied thousands of years ago. We only have to look at the bible and world history to see it coming.  We don't need impeachment trials or special investigations to root out these derelicts. We all know who they are.  They are not as ignorant or blind to the facts as they pretend,  just prideful and selfish. 

What is the message that God is sending?  If we miss it this time what will come next?  God's message is clear!  It is timely and it is purposeful.  It shows without a shadow of doubt that mankind is incapable of governing ourselves without God's help. He is preparing hearts and raising up witnesses to tell the world to Surrender and Turn To Him!  The Solution to corrupt governments here and abroad is already here:

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given,

And the government will be upon His shoulder.

And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor,

Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of His government and peace

There will be no end. (Isaiah 9:6-7a)

UNTIL NEXT TIME...

If you would like to leave a comment please send an email to: sisters4sisters@att.net OR  scroll to the bottom of my blog page at  http://alittlewiser63.blogspot.com  click on the no comments by the pencil and it will change to a writing space.