Rebuke the devil

Everyone has had bad thoughts creep through their minds.  Thoughts of ill will to someone. Thoughts of causing harm to someone else.  Hoping something bad would happen to someone that has hurt you.  Don't be fooled.  If you are a believer, you must know that that is the devil doing his bidding on your soul.  You must rebuke him and turn to God.

Such a thought was in my head this morning when I awoke.  It was a transition from a dream and the idea lingered.  I heard myself agreeing with something that I wholeheartedly disagree with.  Thanks to God's grace, I quickly rebuked the devil and repented.  You simply don't know when you will be drawn to such negative and malicious thoughts, so you must always stay vigilant.  As it is written;

"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.  The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak."

Matthew 26:41

Ever catch yourself justifying a sinful thought or act?  Where something or someone else caused you to act/behave that way.  It was due to this, that and the other that you committed the sin.  Right?  Wrong.  For we are not free from sin, until we believe in what Christ did for us all on the cross.  We have within ourselves the power to overrule sin and not let sin rule over us.  But we have to be willing and not fall into temptation!  The enemy is always on the lookout for when we are weak.  It is written in Romans 6:22 that; 

"Having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, the everlasting life."

and...

"Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Luke 10:19

and...

"These signs will follow those who believe; In My name they will cast out demons, they will speak with new tongues."

Mark 16:17

Let's not throw away this precious unearned gift we have been given freely through the blood of Christ.  May God help us fight the devil.  Amen.   

Flip the switch!

Q: So, you have just been born again in Christ...what are you going to do now?
A: Go to Disney World, of course!

No.  Let's be serious shall we.  It's so easy for believers of long time to judge the new believers.  I recently heard a sermon about judgment. It was from Matthew 7:1-5. In it the pastor clarified the scripture and stated, that we as new, right in the middle, or old believers, mustn't judge other believers or non-believers' hearts.  So what does this mean?  It means that when it comes to judgment of another, only our Father in Heaven is capable of judging fully and wholly.  All we are asked to do according to scripture is to judge the situation.  Evaluate it to the best of our ability to identify what's happening.  Once discerned, you make a decision whether to be a part of it or not.  There is no way for any of us to know why the situation took place, what is in the other person's heart, or what their feelings/thoughts are.  So stop assuming!

Now that we have established the base ground for the topic at hand, let's begin examining.  When an individual comes to Christ for the first time, or is growing in Christ, he/she is filled with His spirit. His spirit works within us to make us anew.  The old becomes dead and the new life, new body, new mind comes forth.  However, it isn't like flipping a switch. So for those that judge and say; 'how can you not love everyone?  Christ asks us to love one another. He wants us to live in fellowship and encourage one another,' I say, give us time.  For it is said:

"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heard of flesh.

I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them."

Ezekiel 36:26-27

Does this say I should immediately start healing people, changing water into wine, raising the dead, and loving everyone I encounter?  Not really.  God places His spirit within us to help us get to Christ's statutes.  The Spirit leads us away from our old ways.  He allows us to understand what we once did not.  He heals our brokenness for us to live within Him.  He erases our past and shows us the bright light of the future.  A future, where we will be able to love one another and live in the Kingdom of Heaven.  But it's a process folks.  It doesn't happen as soon as you emerge from the water of baptism.  Have faith though...it will come to fruition, for He promises us that.  It is written:

"Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. 

For he who has died has been freed from sin. 

Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him."

Romans 6:6-8

"Whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven.

And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.

He who find his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it."

Matthew 10:32, 38-39

I say to you, do not be dismayed my dear believers who find it difficult to love each and every man and woman alive in this world. It doesn't mean you are not Christlike.  It simply means that the Holy Spirit still has work to do within you.  Give it time, patience, prayer, and supplication. For what is written is true and it will come to pass.  

Amen!  

   

God Loves Me for Who I am -

When we say that God loves me for who I am, are we absolving ourselves from any and all responsibilities we have as believers?  Granted it is true, that God does indeed love us.  He sent Christ to the cross knowing He will bear our sins and die for us. All for the sake of forgiving us and accepting us into His kingdom.  It is the greatest love there is.  Unconditional and never ending...

However, does that mean that we are free to do whatever we want with no consequence?  With no one holding us accountable and/or no fear of 'not' being accepted into the Kingdom of Heaven?  No my dear readers no.  Though we are His chosen people and are forgiven when we repent, that does not allow us to continue committing sin.  We mustn't allow any damage to our relationship with God. It has been proven throughout history that God punishes those who are disobedient. Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, all people at the time of Noah, and the people at the time of the 10 plagues of Egypt; to name a few punishments.  And please don't give me some nonsensical comment about the difference between the Old Testament God and the New Testament God, because God is God no matter the age or times...think about it.  To further prove this point, the following scripture is taken from the New Testament about the wrath of God on those who do as they please.

"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth."

Romans 1:18

"Then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment."

2 Peter 2:9

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few."

Matthew 7:13-14

"Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.' To the contrary, 'if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

Romans 12: 17-21

Do you still not see?  Do you deny that it is by God's grace alone we are forgiven and by His mercy that we are accepted into His kingdom? There is nothing you and I could do ourselves to warrant His undying love for us. As typically, our own doing and our own understanding leads us to much trouble. What we ought to do is listen to His guidance for us.  Follow His plan for our lives.  Pray for His will to be done.  Most of all shadow the footsteps of His beloved...the One who knew no sin. Only then can we live truly righteous and devoted lives. Devoted to Him, His Word, and His Spirit.  

Yes my friends, God does love us for who we are...but we cannot continue on the path of sin and expect that which is for the true believers only. The Kingdom of God!  

Food for your soul -

Ever feel hungry when you know you've eaten.  As if, no matter how much or what you chow down on, it leaves you feeling unsatisfied.  So what does being full really mean?  The widely used translation is; being completely filled, containing all that can be held, or filled to the utmost capacity. Now let me ask again.  Are you really full when you've eaten all you can eat? If so, then why is that lingering unfulfilled feeling still there? Is it really food that you need or is the empty feeling within you in need of something else.  Something bigger than mere sustenance.  We can cloud our lives with abundance of activities, work, school, love, family, friendships, and my new favorite (as in not!) social media...or you could be the outdoorsy kind and are into all sort of sports and hiking.  Yet at the end of the day, you're still sad, lonely and irked, and you simply can't figure out why.  Varying opinions exist on said topic and you can form your own either based on research, or based on how you feel. If you have read any of my writing, you will know, I will base it off of scripture.  So here it goes.

Our soul needs nourishment just like out body does.  But our soul is not satisfied with things of this world.  Our soul needs something greater.  It needs to believe in something.  Hold on to something that is sustainable.  And what possibly can be greater than God. There are many out there who would disagree with that statement. They will counter the statement with various ideas of science and of existence in general.  Some if not many within my own family.  To them I say, you believe what you feel is right, and let me speak of what my heart tells me is correct!  For it is written:

"I am the bread of life.  He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst."

John 6:35

"I will satiate the soul of the priests with abundance, and My people shall be satisfied with My goodness says the Lord."

Jeremiah 31:14

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled."

Matthew 5:6

I have spoken previously about those who; worship idols, rely on their own wits, and feel secure with the money they have acquired.  To those, I say, if you are full with these things then praise be to God. However if you aren't feeling complete regardless of all your worldly possessions, then perhaps there is a better way, eh? Would you give the one God your attention?  Believe it or not, He is looking for you.  He wants to find you.  He wants to fill you with happiness and joy of not this world, but a better world.  A world yet to come.  He knows your deepest desires and He alone can fulfill them.  So why not give it a try?  I suppose it would be too discerning of me if I say, you won't be disappointed.  But you won't be!  

Repentance- What, How and Why?

What is repentance? It is the activity of reviewing one's actions and feeling contrition or regret for past wrongs.  It generally involves a commitment to personal change and resolving to live a more responsible and humane life.

How does one repent?

1 - Accepting your sin/wrongdoing; be humble, feel and trust God in your heart, think about what you have done, think about why what you did was wrong, repent for the right reasons, and read the Holy Bible (text).

2 - Making things right; consult with your spiritual adviser, change your behavior, get help, make right the problems you caused, use the lesson you have learned, and help others to not make your mistakes.  

3 - Embracing Forgiveness; live a life that pleases God, formally enter into your religious community (umm, not sure i agree), be active in protecting your soul, accept that you will make future mistakes, and live a good life.

Why should one repent? The reason one should repent is because God wants to prove that He can be a better God to you.  He wants to be so intensely close that He becomes a better refuge, a much greater strength, a surpassing glory.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What does this mean?  Can it be further simplified?  I think so...  But to break it down into its simplest form, I need to ask a few questions of you.  Do you believe in the kingdom of heaven?  If so, do you desire to be a part of it?  If you answered no to either of the above, then you should stop reading now as there is no hope for you.  Alright alright, I am just kidding, you don't need to get all upset about it...  There is hope for everyone still.  However if you answered yes to either of the questions above, then to you all repentance means your way into the kingdom of heaven.  Well it isn't quite that simple I suppose.  (Gosh, can you make it a little more confusing)...  As you can see from the answer to the second question above, there are steps to repentance.  I am stating that repentance is the gateway to the kingdom of heaven.

It's so difficult to let go of everything and accept God into our lives.  You say 'what about my dreams', 'what about my ambitions', and 'what about my loves'.  All idolatries in my humble opinion if you place these things before God I say.  Start every day with God first and He will direct your paths and lead you to your dreams, ambitions, and loves.  For He cares for you!  It is written:

"Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out."

Acts 3:19

"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance."

2 Peter 3:9

"The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent"

Acts 17:30

   

Will you not consider it?  A person who knocks on your door to sell girl scout cookies, you consider. Yet you will not consider God calling you to Him, asking you to repent?   

Discipleship and Seeking the Lost -

Do you shy away when someone asks you questions about your faith or your beliefs?  Whatever they may be.  Do you question what you believe?  Is it hard to explain to others, or is it that you yourself don't understand your own belief system?

I was once married.  The man I was married to believed without question.  However when I used to ask him questions about his beliefs, he was never able to answer.  He simply used to say, I don't ask questions...I just believe.  It's amazing to have such faith, no?  Yes...and No.  Why no, you may be asking.  Doesn't God tell us to have faith and love Him unconditionally?  Yes, of course.  But He doesn't want us to be ignorant about our faith and beliefs either.  He wants us to seek out the non-believers and the lost, so that we can preach the good news of the love of God to them.  How in the world are we supposed to do that if we don't understand ourselves?  Does that make more sense now?  I assure you my friends, it's good to ask questions and to understand fully.  It's good to gain knowledge about your faith.  Don't roll your eyes and walk away when someone tries to find out about your belief system.  Stand firm in your faith and tell them you're a disciple of Christ. For the Lord says to us in Luke 15:3-7

"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them.  Doesn't he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?  And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home.  Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; for I have found my lost sheep'. I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent."

How is this relevant?  Let's dig into it a bit shall we?  Pastor David Hawkins said in his sermon on said topic that this parable refers to how God seeks out the sinners.  And don't you say, well this isn't for me then, as we're all sinners.  We should be delighted that God Himself seeks us out.  And as the disciples of Christ we need to seek those that have yet to feel the light of God shine on them.  Don't corner yourselves with other believers, as that goes against what Christ asked us to do.  Jesus said, 

 "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit"

Matthew 28:19

Please don't sit back and watch the non-believers put down your faith.  Do you not see what's happening in our world?  Do you not see what folks are doing in the name of their own faiths?  The Muslim extremists want to destroy Christianity and the followers of Christ.  Are you going to still sit back and not speak up?  Will you allow your faith to be destroyed?  Take advantage of your freedoms Americans.  Not many people are given this luxury.  I for one aim to take the liberties given to me and preach about the good news.  For I have been saved and forgiven, by the grace of God.  As once I was lost, but now I am found...was blind but now I see.  Hallelujah and Praise be to God!!!!  

"I stand, with arms high and heart abandoned.  For the One who gave it all.

I stand, my soul Lord to your surrendered.  All I am is Yours."

I will speak the truth about the One and only God and will not be dismayed by the evil one.  For he lurks around for his opportunity.  I have said many of times before that it's a daily battle folks.  Just because you have accepted the truth doesn't mean you're saved forever.  You still can be led astray by the enemy if you allow him in.  So stay vigilant and aware of your belief, don't shy away from telling others, and don't be led astray at any time by the enemy.  Keep studying the Word of God, and preach the good Word to all you have access to and then beyond.  That's the only way we can find the lost...

Humility vs. Self Promotion -

It's funny honestly.  How very easy it is to speak of others and say, "can you believe what they are doing?" or "do you see what they are all about?" or better yet, "I cannot believe how selfish so and so is..."

I have been doing what I can for the past year; to speak the truth about God, to preach humility, and to bring an understanding of the word of God to whoever I can. However while doing this, I remained unchanged myself.  It is so easy to get up on a soap box and tell others to lead better lives.  So very easy to pass judgement on them for their actions and choices.  Never to have to do a self evaluation. Never to look within for faults.  Never to search within for brokenness.  Why?  I am surely teaching the word of God to the lost aren't I?  Doesn't that automatically make me better? Don't I naturally belong in the Kingdom of Heaven.  Or am I like the pharisees of the time of Jesus Christ. May God have mercy on my soul, I sure hope I am not that bad....am I?        

It is said that the pharisees were the individuals who knew the laws of the Jewish religion and its traditions.  People sought their guidance on matters of principle and religious teachings.  The scripture has very harsh words for the pharisees.  It is written:

"Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by others..." 

Matthew 23:1-5 

As I just said, may God have mercy on my soul if I have acted as a pharisee.  I listen to the word of God in sermons every day, study the Bible, listen to worship music constantly, pray, and yes preach as often as I can.  Now that doesn't sound bad, does it?  No, but alongside all these noble things, I have sadly been self promoting.  I have been so fused over material things.  So vexed by finances and inconsequential worldly troubles.  So bogged down by my own self worth and physical appearance that I did not even realize how it's impacting me as well as those around me.  What's funny is that I speak of hypocrisy, whilst being a hypocrite myself.  I myself must remember that God says: 

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you."

1 Peter 5:7

"No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money"

Matthew 6:24

"For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Luke 14:11

So today I vow to live the life I preach.  It all starts with ourselves folks.  How am I to convince others not to put their hands in the fire, when I have done so repeatedly.  I vow to not only talk the talk, but walk the walk as well.  Therefore my gracious readers (all two of you...) I will stand firm in my faith and know that I am no longer a hypocrite.  I am the daughter of God.  The One who created me.  He the creator of the heavens and the earth.  He who knows me by name.  He has a purpose for me in this lifetime, and I aim to fulfill that purpose.  Though I yet not know what it is, I shall humble myself in His presence and seek His mercy, forgiveness and guidance through my new path.  For God is not an option, He is a necessity.

May He forgive me for my wrongdoings and allow me to follow in the footsteps of those He is pleased with.  In His mighty name I pray.  Amen!    

Prophets--Signs--Faith

I spoke of what a rational minded individual with average intelligence would do when presented with a radical idea in my last post.  It's easy for us to judge those before us for rejecting the prophets of God.  Ever consider whether you would act differently?  What if you have already rejected someone who spoke the word of God?  Keep in mind, not every man or woman who says they communion with God is telling the truth.  For it is written in 1 John 4:1 - 

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.

But how do you know who is from God and who is not?  What determining factors are there?  The truth is that the Bible, the Torah, as well as the Quran speaks of signs of coming prophets.  Yet we do not believe.  Our forefathers didn't believe either.  Some of us consider ourselves of superior minds and intelligence and look harshly upon those who believe something other than what we feel to be correct. Take Mormonism or Later Day Saints church movement for example.  They believe that Joseph Smith was directed by angels to recover a book written in gold plates containing the religious history of an ancient people.  Prophet or fake?  Or take the example of Alexander Dowie who claimed to be the spiritual return of biblical prophet Elijah. Whatever happened to him?  Perhaps consider John Hugh Smyth-Pigott who claimed that he was the second coming of the messiah and was god, not man.  Where is he now? I am certain if researched, many more will be found.  So again remember this:

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.

Matthew 7:15

So then how does one recognize the truth?  The answer is simple my friends.  Be aware of the word of God in scriptures.  Study them and know them well.  In scriptures the foretelling of prophets and the signs that will appear are written.  After educating yourself, pay attention to the teachings of the so called prophets.  Is their message leading you to God or away from Him?  Do they prophecy in the name of God, or are they fortunetellers looking for your wallet?  Are they seeking fame for themselves or are they giving all fame, praise and glory to God?  Is their healing given only in return for profits or do they speak the truth of the gospels without wanting anything in return?  For Jesus said to His disciples in Luke 9:3-5

"He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.”

In scripture it is also said about false prophets that: 

"For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive."

Romans 16:18

To be a true messenger or God, the messenger must display the characteristics of godliness.  He must be pious and righteous.  Not just in his words, but in his actions as well.  My dear readers, your best defense against being naivete is to arm yourselves with the word of God.  Know it by heart.  Know the truth.  Don't be fooled.  At the same time however, don't be reluctant in recognizing someone who is indeed preaching the word of God.  Prophet or not, trust in the true word of God, no matter who speaks it.  For it is written: 

"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."

John 1:14

Alas, whatever you do my friends, please don't be hypocrites.  Don't speak ill of those who disbelieved and mocked Christ on the cross, and then in the same breath mock those speaking the same word of God that Christ taught.  For we must be vigilant and on guard.  It is a daily struggle and a war against the enemy who is forever waiting for an opportunity to attack.  Attack in the form of discouragement, or in the form of false prophet-hood.  Do not give him cause to enter your lives.  Be alert in your hearts and minds and do not be dismayed ever.  For the Lord our Savior is with us always....Amen!!!

Religious hypocrisy!

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven."
Matthew 6:1

Ever wonder what you would have done in the days of the prophets?  If someone claimed to be a messenger of God.  What would you do and say?  What if it happened now?  Would you believe them and take them seriously?  Would you ask for proof?  Would you ask them to perform miracles? If you look at history, it shows us that people not only question, but usually mock the prophets when they are preaching the message of God.  It's only after their death do most realize the errors of their ways, and begin following their teachings.  I heard in a sermon and nodded in agreement when the Pastor said, "people approve the wicked deeds of their fathers and adorn the tombs of those their fathers killed."

What is the point of this you may be asking.  Well if you have read enough of my work, you know I always have a point.  The subject matter that mostly all religious and pious people want to avoid is the point here.  The point of religious hypocrisy.  I have talked about said topic within my other writings, but it's such a big issue that it deserved it's own blog. Have you noticed that all religious folks are offended when questioned, corrected or directed about their beliefs and practices?  Offended and defensive.  Their priorities are in the wrong place. They desire worldly things, and chase after appearances and the non-essentials.  They practice ceremonial offerings and prayers when their hearts are full of envy and malice.  They lack any concern for others and have become complacent in their teachings.  However, these same individuals are the ones to condemn others and their ways.  Do you disagree?  Have you too not seen this?

Why should I be concern with this, you ask.  Live and let live, you say.  It's not my problem, you say. Well I say, have you kept anyone from knowing God's word?  Perhaps imposed law upon them and not let them know God's grace and forgiveness?  Then my friends, you too are hypocrites!  Yes, I speak to you.  You, the one who tells your neighbor to not take the Lord's name in vain, yet yourself worship money and other worldly idols.  Is that not blasphemy too?  Oh you hypocrites, look within you before pointing out the sins of others.  For the Lord says:

"You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."
Matthew 7:5

"You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said: ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’”
Matthew 15: 7-9

"Do you suppose, O man, you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God?"
Romans 2:3

So why then do we insist on condemning others when we too are condemned by such actions.  Why is it easier to see the errors of others but feel ourselves sinless.  Truth be told, we should all consider this.

I am guilty...

when I am interested more in outward ceremony then hard commitment

when I am interested more in religious tradition rather than biblical teaching

when I am interested more in appearances then the approval of God

May the Lord in heaven forgive us, guide us and allow us to remain humble while we seek the word of God, and not worldly pleasures.  Amen!

Don't blame God...

You're walking down the street to the corner store to get bread and milk, and all of the sudden you hear, "Allahu Akbar!"  Your immediate reaction...duck under cover.  You're watching a movie and the sound of the Muslim "adhan" starts playing.  Your immediate reaction...roll your eyes and wonder when the killings will begin.

Ever wonder why?  Ever do anything more than wonder?  Perhaps research the beliefs of the said religion?  This isn't going to be a lecture of tolerance and acceptance of other religions and beliefs, as you all very well know my stance on organized religion.  However I will take a moment to explain the two phrasing mentioned.

Allahu Akbar translate to God is great! and an adhan is the Islamic call to worship.  What we need to dig deeper into isn't what the two mean, but what they represent and how they have been manipulated for purposes other than their original intent.  It's a marvelous thing to praise God.  Everyone should praise Him.  But when extremists say Allahu Akbar, it isn't for the purpose of truly praising the one God, but to instill fear.  Fear of death.  As their actions following the praising of God is full of death and destruction.  How sad that two very opposite concepts have been connected this way: the concept of praise for God and the concept of death.  How very sad indeed.  As for the adhan, it was initiated for the purpose of informing believers of the faith to come worship at the appropriately allotted times as dictated.  Now it represents malice to the outsiders, as it has made it's way to be connected with terrorist actions.

Why associate God with your terrorism people?  Why in one breath give praise to Him and in the next blow up a building full of His children?  Why call people to come worship when the next moment you are blowing up another's place of worship?  Think over these simple questions.  Simple but frightfully honest and thought provoking questions.  Did you forget that God is Peace?  For He has said;

"You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." Isaiah 26:3

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in body; and be thankful." 

Colossians 3:15

"The Lord will give strength to His people;

The Lord will bless His people with peace."

Psalm 29:11

"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

John 14:27

So then why are you blaming God for your decisions.  Why are you pinning your treacherous murders on Him.  Why are you making claims of servitude when you miss the greatest of His commandments of, "thou shalt not kill." How can you attest that these killings are directed by the one God, when He commands that; "...you shalt love thy neighbor as thyself..." Mark 12:31
Why hold God responsible for your own recklessness.  Why say that God will grant you heaven after your infidelity.

Why? Why I ask of those out there who at this very moment are conspiring to shoot someone down, or are planning an insidious mass murder, and/or are taking the Lord's name is vain.  Why should you be forgiven for such actions?  My God in heaven sees all and nothing is nor can be hidden from Him.  His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Amen.

Draw me nearer Lord!

You know that feeling in your heart.  That feeling of something wrong.  The feeling that something is missing.  That feeling that you forgot something important.  Well I have been walking for days now with that nagging feeling.  Every day the feeling gets stronger and I grow weaker.  The problem is, I do know what's wrong.  I certainly know what's missing.  And I surely have forgotten something very important.  I my dear friends have wandered away from my God.  He has not abandoned me.  He never does.  Yet I have faltered.  It's always us that does the leaving.  It's always us who strays and it's always us who blames Him for not being there for us.  How unfair!

My dear readers; today raise your hands and pray with me.  Pray that our Lord, the Savior of our souls, draws us nearer to Him, so that we too can relish in His abundant love.  Pray that He, our Salvation, draws us nearer to Him, so that we are not caught in sin.  Pray to our Lord, the Mighty that He draws us nearer to Him, so that we too can shower our love on the needy.  Let's all say:

"I will bless the Lord at all times;
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; 
The humble shall hear of it and be glad.
Oh, magnify the Lord with me, 
And let us exalt His name together.
I south the Lord, and He heard me,
And delivered me from all my fears.

Psalm 34:1-4 

"In You, O Lord, I put my trust;

Let me never be put to shame.

For You are my hope, O Lord God;

You are my trust from my youth.

Let my mouth be filled with Your praise

And with Your glory all the day.

Psalm 71:1, 5, 8

Whom them shall I praise?  Whom them shall I praise?

Our dear beloved Lord!  

The Savior of our Souls! 

The Mighty!  

The Forgiver!  

The Restorer!  

The Generous!  

The Provider!  

The Merciful!

The Creator!  

Hear my pleas O Lord and draw me nearer to You, so that I can once again walk in Your presence and be blessed by Your mercy.  Lord please forgive me my sins and allow me to humble myself.  Blessed God, please take the love for the world out of my heart and fill it with your bountiful mercy for everyone.  Lord use me for Your purpose.  In Your magnificent name I pray this.  Amen! 

Optimist-Pessimist-Realist-Me...

You know what the difference between a pessimist, an optimist and a realist is?  There are many jokes explaining the difference.  One I like is; a pessimist says the glass is half empty, an optimist says the glass is half full, and a realist drinks the glass of water and asks what's next.  And the difference between all three of these categories and me is...(drum roll please)... They chose to be classified, and I just chose to be happy! Yup.  That's it.  There is not a single thing to complain about in my opinion.  Even the worst of times that I may be going through, I thank God for.  I have been calleelf-righteous and sanctimonious, and have been told that the thin air on my high horse is affecting my thinking.  You know what I say?  I say, I am covered by God's grace and am not at all bothered by the words of those that do not understand.  It simply makes me smile.  

It's hard for people to understand or perhaps accept that a change is indeed possible.  What always was, doesn't always have to be.  As in, if a person acted  badly for a long period of time, doesn't mean that is how they will be for the rest of their lives.  Everyone goes through situations in life that changes them, and allowing that change to occur gives them an opportunity to not go back to what wasn't working.  Christ blessed the promiscuous woman, when no one else would dare speak to her and had casted her away.  She was anew in Christ and was cleansed. Christ died so that we can have that connection with our Lord without the guilt and condemnation we once felt.  He asks that we not commit the sins we once did. Ok, all mind games aside, let's see what our beloved Lord has to say on the topic of change and transformation.  

"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.  I will put My spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them."  

Ezekiel 36:26-27

"Having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever." 

1 Peter 1:23

So what will you chose today?  Noticing that the glass is empty, full, or just drink it?  Try praising God and being happy perhaps, eh? If loving my God, and thanking Him for the blessings he bestows on me is being self-righteous and sanctimonious, then yes, YES I am that.  And I am not sorry about it.  I don't feel depressed, sad, lonely, angry, guilty or any other negative feeling.  As situations present themselves to me, I turn to God and ask for His help and His guidance.  I trust that He will see me through them as He promises us He will.  What God knows about me is more important than what others think about me. 

Nowhere to hide -

Q:  You want to tell me something?
A:  Like what?
Q:  You're hiding something from me.
A:  I have nothing to hide.  My conscious is clear.  What has happened?
Q:  "Every time you were keeping something from me, you were keeping something from me."
A:  I have no idea what's going on, but I know as God as my witness that I am not hiding anything as there is nothing to hide.  Nothing has happened.  
---

Ever been in a situation where you know inside out that you're right about something but the other person doubts you, regardless?  How has that situation gone for you?  Difficult no?  As you want to please the person you love, and not fight.  But there seems no way for you to convince them of your innocence.  Or better yet, your ignorance of what it is they feel you have done. In order to walk away from such a confrontation remember these words from our God;

"...Remember that there is no condemnation for those who belong to Me (Your Lord).  You have been judged NOT GUILTY for all eternity.  Trust Me, and don't be afraid; for I am your Strength, Song and Salvation."  Interpretation from James 4:7; Romans 8:1-2; Isaiah 12:2

Our Lord also says; 

"...Anticipate coming face to face with impossibilities: situations totally beyond your ability to handle.  This awareness of your inadequacy is not something you should try to evade.  It is precisely where I want you -- the best place to encounter Me in My Glory and Power.  When you see armies of problems marching toward you, cry out to Me!  Allow Me to fight for you.  Watch Me working on your behalf, as you rest in the shadow of My Almighty Presence."  

Interpretation from Revelation 19:1; Psalm 91:1

The Almighty promises us that; 

"...I know every thought before you think it, every word before you speak it. My Presence impinges on your innermost being. Can you see the absurdity of trying to hide anything from Me?  You can easily deceive other people, and even yourself, but I read you like an open, large print book."  

Interpretation from Psalm 139:1-4; Ephesians 2:13; 2 Corinthians 5:21

So when you feel cornered with no way out of a situation, seek the Lord and ask for His guidance and mercy.  For He knows you better than you know yourself.  Perhaps your loved ones get an inkling of something that you yourself haven't seen.  Instead of trying to prove your innocence/ignorance to them at a time when they are least receptacle to your words, turn to God and allow Him to work on your behalf.  If you truly trust in Him and ask for His help, He will let those that doubt know what the truth is.  You need not hide anywhere, as there is nowhere to hide from our God Lord Almighty.  Submit your troubles to Him and allow for His grace to work in your life.  

Lord help me through this troubled situation.  If there is something I have not acknowledged myself, please reveal it to me.  I trust You with my words, my decisions, and my life.  Let Your will be done.  Amen!!

  

Follow the leader

Have you ever played the game follow the leader?  I've seen it played in various ways and with different kinds of groups. In some groups it was played where everyone had to do what the leader was doing.  While in others, the group was all blindfolded and stood in a line.  Each person grabbed the shoulder of the person in front and followed wherever the leader took them; the leader was the only one not blindfolded.  What's the point to this you may be wondering.  Patience my friends, you know I don't bring up a topic unless it's relevant to what I want to discuss.  So playing games is enjoyable, right?  Enjoyable because it's pretend, and doesn't impact real life.  No?  What happens if you find out one day that life is a game. Do you do anything differently? If so what?

Well in the game of life, there is only one leader.  No you don't have to guess who.  And if you thought of anyone but the One and Only God, then you need to sort your priorities.  In a game of pretend, it's easy to follow the leader.  But when it comes to real life, and real consequences, we tend to forget who our Leader and Master is.  Instead of following His direction and commands for us, we tend to rely on ourselves.  Well how is that working out for all?  Yeah, some are doing really well; lots of money in the bank accounts, houses, cars, jewelry, everything you ever wanted or needed.  But do they have peace? Others are wondering whether they will have food to eat tonight, or shelter to sleep under.  No matter where you are in game of life, you must acknowledge the God who watches over you.

I'll share a brief story.  I was skeptical of God and His existence as I always looked at the inconsistencies in life.  Rich getting richer, when they don't worship.  Poor getting poorer when all they do is pray.  The bad getting away with crimes and never knowing God.  The good coming down with deadly disease when they follow all commandments of God.  I used to ask, how can a God that sees all this be the God to worship. Then like a flick of a light switch everything was illuminated (well not exactly, but it sounds better to say it that way). It took a very long time for me to understand and accept God's love, forgiveness, mercy and grace.  But now that I have, all my questions seem to be answered and I wonder how I ever questioned Him to begin with.  I know I wasn't alone though, as many question the same things.  You know what's cool? That our loving God wants us to ask Him these questions. To Him it shows that we're interested enough to care why certain things happen. However the wonder of it all is, that we may never truly understand even when He does respond. For He says;

"Understanding will never bring you peace. That's why I have instructed you to trust in Me, not in your understanding." Interpretation from Proverbs 3:5-6

Know this!

God is in the midst of the weakest person, dying of thirst. So that he dies with peace in his heart.

Lord Almighty lives within the sloth who sits and eats all day. So that he feels sees right from wrong.

God walks with the crippled that can't feel his legs. So that he can feel alive.

Lord Almighty gives more to the greedy who has everything. So they may give back to the needy.

 God places His hand on the poor when they are too cold to sleep. So they can feel His warmth.

So no matter what sins you have committed or haven't committed in life, take a chance and follow the Lord. He will wash away all your sins and accept you with open arms into His holy presence. He will bless your heart and soul and allow you to feel His mercy in your lives.  Whether life is a game or not, our Lord is our Leader and Master and we must follow Him.  Follow His word, His messengers/prophets, His commandments, His mercy, His forgiveness, His compassion, His grace, His never ending love for us all. Sinners and saints alike.  Yes, it's a hard pill swallow, but that's the grace of God!  He loves us all so very much.  He has so much love to give, that every being on this earth can stretch out their hands to carry such bounties, yet it will still overflow.  Just surrender to Him my friends, and see what your tomorrow will bring. Follow Him!  Accept Him into your lives. Allow Him to lead you to the path of those He has blessed. Allow His Holy Spirit to lead you beyond borders you have created for yourselves. Give up the struggle of figuring it out for yourselves.  Just like a father takes care of his children, like a teacher teaches his students, like a captain leads his soldiers, like a president commands his country; our Lord is our Father, our Teacher, our Captain, and our President, all in one. Then why do you think twice about following Him?  The time of thinking is over. The time of acceptance of His will over ours is here.  

My Lord, let Your will be done in our lives and let us always follow You, Your Word, and Your Spirit. Amen!!!

Blessed be the name of the Lord

"Every blessing You pour out, I'll turn back to praise.

When the darkness closes in Lord, still I will say; 

Blessed be the name of the Lord, blessed be Your name."

It's certainly easy to praise God in our good times. When we have everything we want and long for. When all our needs are met, our health is in good shape, and we are surrounded by our loved ones.  Yes, it is indeed effortless to be grateful and to praise God Almighty when things are well.  Let's turn the situation around now. How do we act when we don't have everything we want, and our needs are not being met, or we contract a terrible disease, and/or our loved ones leave us.  In those times why do we turn away from God? Is being grateful conditional to God giving us what we desire? So basically you strike a bargain with the Lord then, eh?  How sad and disgraceful.  

"Not for a moment does He forsake us..." 

"He cannot love us any more or any less than He loves us this very instant."

Yet our love, our gratefulness, and our praise for Him is tentative.  However, this tentativeness doesn't deter Him from us.  Nothing keeps Him from pursuing us. He watches over us as a father would. He hurts when we distance ourselves from His love.  It pains Him to see us worship idols.  After all we do to ache Him, He still longs for us to commune with Him.  He tells us to, "come to Him continually. I am meant to be the Center of your consciousness, the Anchor of your soul..." (Interpreted from Hebrews 6:19, 1 John 2:28, and Matthew 22:37).  So then why do we turn away?  Why do we ask, "why have you forsaken us?"  Can't we feel His pull?  He knows that, "...our minds will wander from Him, but he asks how far we will allow it to wander. He says that as we drift away from Him, His Spirit within us gives a tug, prompting us to return to Him..." (Interpreted from Hebrews 6:19, 1 John 2:28, and Matthew 22:37).  For being the Lord of all the heavens, He makes this much effort to know us, to walk with us, to be in our every thought; then why do we not long for Him as such?

It says in scripture to thank God for everything.  Even in our troubling times, we should thank Him.  Don't turn away from Him for it says; 

"Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you.  He will be with you; He will never fail you nor abandon you." Deuteronomy 31:8 

"[He] loves us at [our] darkest" Romans 5:8. 

All He asks is the same from us. Our God is alive, with us, and within us. How lucky and blessed are we! Praise God!! Our Lord knows of our suffering as He too has suffered from our transgressions.  How do we then justify not praising such a loving, forgiving, and merciful Lord?  So today my friends, please join me in singing His praises:

"Bless the Lord oh my soul, oh my soul, worship His holy name.

Sing like never before, oh my soul, I'll worship Your holy name.

The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning; it's time to sing Your song again.

Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me, let me be signing when the evening comes.

Bless the Lord oh my soul, oh my soul, worship His holy name.

Sing like never before, oh my soul, I'll worship Your holy name."  

     

Walk in the park?

Ever wished following the right path of the Lord would be easy?  I mean, we believe right.  So why do we have to struggle so much?  Why can't we simply wake up and be perfect human beings who are loved and cherished by God?  Aha!  But you are loved and cherished by God my dears.  God can't love us anymore than how much He loves us right now in this moment, and every moment thereafter.  It is us, mere humans, who believe we have to do certain things to earn God's love and mercy.  When all that God wants is to have us follow Him.  Have us look for Him in everything.  Have us trust in Him.  But it isn't so easy is it?  It isn't easy to follow Him, look for Him, and or trust Him.  As following Him, looking for Him, and trusting Him requires us to change our ways.  So it isn't always a walk in the park for most of us.  However God isn't seeking perfection from us.  

So what does it take to follow God?  It takes each of us picking up our crosses each and every day and walking right beside Him.  You can take the phrasing picking up a cross however you feel it applies to you.  As for some it could be giving up drugs, whilst for others it could be not lying.  Neither of which is easy for the person having to give it up.  Trying to change who you are or have become doesn't happen over night and sometimes not at all.  So those that do it, and make it through, they do indeed pick the heavy burden of their cross and walk alongside God.  As they decided that being one with God, and having the mercy of His grace is more significant to them then their additions.  

Now what does it take to look for God in everything?  This sort of becomes that little voice on your shoulder that tells you to do something or not do something.  In this scenario what ends up happening is, your willingness to put aside what you want and putting in the forefront your desire to seek God.  This could be; not purchasing new shoes and instead buying a meal for a homeless person, or giving up on a fancy meal for yourself to get someone a blanket to sleep in on the streets.  Your eagerness to pursue God in place of worldly things are certainly noticed by the Almighty. 

Finally, what does it take to trust the Lord?  This is the hardest, as it requires complete surrender to His will. By far this is what most everyone struggles with as we feel we are independent and can handle whatever comes at us.  What we fail to realize is that our independence, strength, courage and determination that it takes to get anything done comes from Him.  So if instead of relying on our own understandings, we gave it to God, it would please Him so much.  For he says:

"...I divided time into days and nights so that you would have manageable portions of life to handle.  My grace is sufficient for you, but its sufficiency is for only one day at a time.  When you worry about the future, you heap day upon day of troubles onto your flimsy frame.  You stagger under this heavy load, which I never intended you to carry...Enjoy My presence continually by trusting Me at all times."

Interpretation from; Matthew 6:34, 2nd Corinthians 12:9, and Psalm 62:8

So my dear friends, don't stress yourself about doing everything the right way to please God.  Doing everything correctly is not a walk in the park and don't forget God doesn't expect perfection from us.  He simply wants us to follow Him, look for Him, and trust Him.  May He guide us to do His will as commanded. Amen!!

Believing v. Trusting

To believe means to accept something as true; or feel sure of the truth of.  Well in that sense I believe in flying reindeer, unicorns, leprechauns, big foot, and ninjas to name a few. However, is believing in something enough? Kids believe in Santa Clause, until the day they catch their dad placing gifts under the tree.  So I ask, is believing in God enough?  Is believing He exists and is here for us through everything sufficient? Hmm...as you probably guessed, we'll evaluate it.

Consider the scenario where you have hit bottom, and you find yourself between the rocks and a hard place. There is no family and or friends around.  Correction; family and friends are there, yet you feel so ashamed that you cannot turn to them for help.  As the last time you had reached this level, they helped you through it. They found you work, a home, and stabilization.  Yet you left it all behind to feed your habit.  Now you find yourself in the position you were in, but know or at least feel they aren't going to be there for you as before.  You are living out your car, and stand at the side of the road everyday with a sign that reads, "Need money for food.  Don't use drugs.  Anything helps!"  Unfortunately only a few seem to believe the middle sentence of your sign and do not feel empathy for your situation.  Night after night you crawl up under an old jacket in your car and cry yourself to sleep.  Your shoes are so worn out that they have holes.  Even in this situation, when someone gives you money, you quickly spend it on your habit instead of putting food in your belly, or getting yourself a hot drink to keep you warm.  How did I get here you ask yourself.  You remember the good days and the message of God you received while recovering the last time.  The message that said to believe in God and His mercy.  You repeat to yourself, that I believe in God, He will help me through this. You say, I believe in His word and His mercy.  Over and over you say this, yet as soon as you have more money you are on the streets looking for a buy.  Why isn't God helping me through this.  I keep saying I believe.  Why isn't my situation changing...

It's not to say that God isn't listening to your belief in Him, if you do indeed believe and aren't just chanting the words. He wonders whether you actually trust him with your situation or believe only in the words you keep repeating.  For He wants you to feel the difference between believing in Him and trusting in Him.  What is the difference?  The difference is that when you truly trust in the Lord, you surrender to His will and then through His grace you're changed from the inside out.  Believing is good, don't think that it isn't.  It's simply not enough.  First step is to believe.  Second step is to trust.  In the first step you get God's attention to yourself.  In the second step you allow Him to work within you and help you.  In the first step you cast away sins.  In the second step you put God above everything else.  Think for a second about the person you love and trust most in the world.  Then amplify that love and trust by an unimaginable number, the highest digits possible.  That is how much our God almighty loves and cherishes us.  When we fall rock bottom and think we don't deserve better, He waits on us and calls us to Him.  He asks us to:

"...Lean on, trust, and be confident in Me.  When you lean on Me. for support, I delight in your trusting confidence..." Interpretation from Proverbs 3:5 and Isaiah 30:15 

"[Now] faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence if things not seen." 

Hebrews 11:1

    

Off with organized religion...

Whether you attend a Christian church, Muslim mosque, Hindu temple, or Jewish synagogue; the message received is often the same.  The message of serving God, worshiping God, being grateful to God, love and peace...  But then they begin to add things.  Religious prayers, religious ceremonies, how many times to bow, how many times to wash up, when you can't pray, when you can pray, etc.  Have you noticed how religion puts boundaries on your communion with God?  Do these religious buffs practice what it is they preach?  Do these so called pious people lead by example?  Are their lives reflective of God's beauty?  Or does it represent what God condemns.  Think about it for a hot second!  

The love for all and hatred for none message preached, where does it go when it comes time for application of the principle?  The non-judgmental acceptance they speak of, where is it outside the four walls of their establishments?  I am not asking anyone to abandon it all and seek God.  But as for me, I am abandoning it/them all and seeking the kingdom of God!!  My aim is to bring to light what is preached v. what is practiced, so that everyone can see for themselves what religion was at one point in time, what purpose it served, and what it is now; allowing people to make an informed decision for themselves.  Am I an expert on the topic?  No.  However I know enough to educate as many as I can, so that they open their eyes to the truth all around them.  

Religion is defined as an organized collection of beliefs, cultural systems, and world views that relate humanity to an order of existence.  It once brought people together in harmony to stand against empires that oppressed them.  People stood on a belief bigger than what they could see.  A belief of something better than what they had.  A belief in a God so mighty who would bring them out of the darkness and into the kingdom of heaven.  Religion stood for something then.  Alas, it isn't so anymore.  What happened one may ask.  People are fallible.  Worshiping prophets, instead of God.  Worshiping idols created by man, rather than the true Lord.  Focusing on the cultural systems, in place of the Almighty.  Preferring to care and impress world views, as a substitute to impressing the God who created us.  That's what happened.  

So out the window goes love, and down the toilet goes peace.  As the world grew, powers established, new empires built, a staleness came upon religion.  A state of stagnant disposition.  Freedom of religion came into effect, allowing for worldly views and cultural systems to take hold and put on the back burner the faith in God.  Consider how previous empires were shaken to the roots.  By people like us, standing against them, their teachings, their oppression as a group.  Not by going along with whatever is said and done by the majority.  Ever wonder why this blog is titled awaken world?  It's because in our dormant state we have lost sight of the message of our God Lord Almighty.  The message of love, acceptance, forgiveness, and peace.  For it is written:

"And we have known and believed the love that God has for us.  God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.  We love Him because He first loved us."

1 John 4:16, 19  

"Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life."

John 5:24

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

1 John 1:9

"You will keep him perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."

Isaiah 26:3

Consider what Jesus, Mohammed, Ram, and Moses would say to their religious followers if they walked the earth today?  Ashamed is God of us!  As He should be.  We have turned our backs to Him who created us and gave us the heaven and the earth.  We make rules up in our said religions as it suits us.  We judge those who don't follow the guidelines made up by man.  I trust only my God to judge me and my belief.  Off with organized religion and join me in laying down our lives for the one and only God!  The God who loves us so, that He knows every hair on our body.  The God that accepts us so, that He knows us each by our name. The God that forgives us so, that He covers all our sins.  The God that gives us peace, for He wants us to unite in harmony and worship Him and no one else.  Open your eyes and see Him!  

"I am nearer than you think, richly present in all your moments.  You are connected to Me by Love-bonds that nothing can sever...Ask me to open your eyes so that you can find Me everywhere...Faith is the confirmation of things we do not see and the conviction of their reality, perceiving as real facts what is not revealed to the senses."

Interpretation from; Acts 17:27-28 & Hebrews 11:1  

Can the real God please stand up!

When you first open your eyes in the morning, and when you last close your eyes at night, what is the thought in your head?  Could be; worries about the next day, how you will be able to pay the electric bill, whether you will have a good day at work or will you be stressed again, will that lady in production be mean to you again, will you have enough money for dinner, why everything happen all at once, why you don't have enough money, why are your children not as behaved as others, why your love is not as strong, why don't they understand, how will you be able to get up in time, when will sleep come....?

Worries after worries.  Negative after negative thoughts.  Failure after failure.  

In your anguish you turn to many idol things; family, friends, coworkers, money, tarot cards, palm readings, hypnosis, lottery tickets, gambling, envy, anger, pride, wrath, etc.  Every day the same every night restless. Over and over you ask what's happening and why.  Yet no answer comes to you.  Your worries grow, and you begin watching your horoscope daily, as if that held the key somehow of how your day will turn out. You feel imprisoned in your own body.  You shake your fists at the heavens above for your bad fortune. Never once do you consider that perhaps you are relying on those people, things, objects, that can't help. You continue on your path of idolatry.  What, who, me??  I am not an idol worshiper.  Am I?  Unfortunately we all are in one way or another when we start focusing our attention on everything in this world, and not on our God.  We place our need for money, our self esteem and pride, our assets; houses, cars, bank accounts, all above our love and desire to commune with God Almighty.  In that sense, the money, the self, the house, the car, all become idols we begin to worship.  For it is written:

"Do not love the world or the things in the world.  If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father (God) is not in him.  For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father (God) but is of the world.  And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever."

1 John 2:15-17       

"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to one and despise the other.  You cannot serve God and wealth."

Matthew 6:24

"If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.  For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.  For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?"

Luke 9:23-25

Let these words touch your body, mind and soul.  Every single day, in every prayer, I ask God to use me as His tool, to glorify His name, to serve His purpose; to give me the strength and courage to continue in my worship of Him.  Yet I still catch myself admiring my own worth and value and yearning for worldly things.  I realize what I ask is not straightforward or uncomplicated.  Yet I must ask you my friends, to take up the cross daily.  To turn to the one being who can truly relieve you of your worries, troubles, sorrows, and failures.  Can the real God please stand up, so that we, the unworthy can gaze upon Your glorious face till our days are done and beyond!  Can the real God please stand up and let us, the unholy, set You apart from everyone and everything else! Can the real God please stand up and let Your children's voices be heard over the cries of those engaged in blasphemy!  Thank You Lord, my God, my everything, for Your blessings, Your mercy, Your forgiveness, and Your love...   

"For when you seek Me instead of the world's idols, you experience My joy and peace.  These intangibles slake the thirst of your soul, providing deep satisfaction.  The glitter of the world is tinny and temporal.  The light of My presence is brilliant and everlasting.  Walk in the Light with Me.  Thus you become a beacon through whom others are drawn to Me." (Interpretation from; Exodus 20:4-5 and Samuel 22:29)