The Mystery of God Revealed

With the recent freezing temperatures hitting us pretty hard, my friend and I decided to grab our blankets, popcorn and hot chocolate and binge watch a TV show. We settled on The Bible series on Netflix. It is a remake of the 1966 film The Bible: In the Beginning. We are both artists and proud critics, so a good deal of the day was spent pointing out all of the inaccuracies in this series. And trust me, there were quite a few. The overall theme of the series seemed to be God’s covenant(s) with Israel. This started a discussion about the promises God made throughout the Bible. So, we decided to breakdown the dispensations on our own. In doing so, we see that even though mankind has had a tumultuous relationship with God since the beginning, God’s grace has always been present but with conditions. That is until, the mystery was revealed.

To get the big picture, let’s look at the different deals God made with His people.

The First Promise:

This promise was made with Adam and Eve in the period of innocence where God put Adam in charge of the earth (Genesis 1:26) and promised that they had a home in Eden forever unless they ate of the forbidden fruit (Genesis 2:15-17). How hard was that? But you know how it goes, we always want what we cannot or should not have. And so, Adam and Eve blew it for everyone. For their disobedience, God evicted them from the garden and cursed them with the hard life we all have to endure today. At this point, mankind is still in charge of the earth. The job just got much harder.

Promise 2 Noah:

Let’s move on to Noah. If you attended any Sunday school class as a child, you know this story. Noah was seen as a righteous man in the eyes of God. If you do a more in-depth study, you will see that Noah had his faults. However, compared to the wickedness in the world during that time, he was a saint. God was sorry that he made mankind. He was so disappointed in what His creation had become he decided to destroy everything. Wipe the slate clean and start over.

So, God sent a massive flood over all of the earth and literally washed everyone and everything from the face of earth except for Noah, his family and the animals taken with them onto the ark.

Here comes the second Promise. In Genesis 9:9-16, God promised Noah that he will never again destroy the earth with water. And, as a symbol of that promise, blessed us with those beautiful rainbows we see sometimes after rain. Pretty awesome!

Promise 3: Abraham

Next, we have Abraham, the father of many nations. God made a couple of promises to Abraham. He assured him that he will have many descendants and God promised him specific tracks of land. These descendants will go on to birth kings including the one and only Jesus Christ. Abraham fathered children with his wife Sarah and his servant Hagar. They went on the become Israel and Palestine, respectively. This land will be and still is the subject of much controversary. But it’s not like they were not warned. God told Abraham’s offspring that they will get the land, lose it but it will be returned to them, eventually (Ezekiel 32, Leviticus 25, Genesis 15,17, Exodus 23).

Promise 4: Moses

Abraham’s grandson, Jacob, was close to God but not without his faults also. He won the heart of God and through him, God formed the nation of Israel to fulfill his promise to Abraham. God renamed Jacob Israel and Israel’s offspring became the “nation” that will birth the son of man, Jesus. Through Jacob’s lineage came Joseph, who rescued his family (the nation of Israel) from starvation through his connection with Egyptian royalty. The nation moves to Egypt and becomes slaves. Years later baby Moses is rescued from Pharaoh’s decree to thin the Israeli population by mass genocide when Pharaoh’s daughter decides to adopt the child as her own. Moses grows up and is used by God to lead Israel out of Egypt and back to the land God promised Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

But this journey to the promised land is complicated by the children of Israel’s disobedience. Therefore, God had to lay down the law, literally. He not only gave them the ten commandments but hundreds of other laws that they were to obey and rituals they were to keep.

If they did not keep these commandments, God promised them curses. If they did obey the law, God gave them blessings (Deuteronomy 11). Pretty simple, right? I suppose it should have been but…

Promise 5: David

Now the children of Israel wanted a kingdom complete with a king, the works. God granted them their wish and gave them Saul. You can read Saul’s very sad story, but we have got to keep this train moving. Ok, here we go. Saul died and the next King is the multi-talented beautiful David. The crowning of King David continued to set the stage for the coming of Christ. Nathan shared God’s promise with King David in 2 Samuel 7:16 where he told David “your throne will be established forever”. We are reminded of this promise in Luke 1:32-33.

Promise 6: Jesus

So, Jesus came from the lineage of King David. Jesus was sent to fulfill the law of Moses. In other words, at this point, the prophecies that were passed down is coming true. God always keeps His word. And with the fulfillment of this prophecy comes a new covenant to save the children of Israel from their sins (Zechariah 9:9).

The Mystery:

Now beloved, comes the plot twist. When Jesus came to earth, those who believed him to be the Messiah thought that He was there to restore their kingdom. They believed that Jesus was their next king (John 12:13, John 1:49). They were under Roman rule and while they were free to practice their religion, they had no real kingdom or freedom as they did in the days of King David. Jesus’ disciples even asked Him when He will restore the kingdom (Acts 1-8). Jesus basically tells them not to worry about the time table. And part of this is because the mystery, yes mystery of God is about to be revealed to the most unlikely person.

Now, at this time, the disciples were teaching Jesus Christ to the children of Israel. Afterall, he was their Messiah, the one prophesied to come. Some believed in the name of Jesus and some did not. What none of them knew, was that Jesus Christ was slaughtered and resurrected for the sins of the world, both Jews and the Gentiles (non-Jewish people). Jesus Christ chose Paul, a proud persecutor of followers of Christ, to deliver Jesus Christ’s message to the world. This mystery was withheld since the beginning of time (Romans 16:25). The message is that salvation is available to anyone who believes that Christ died for their sins. Simple. Your sins are forgiven. All you need do is believe that. And you are saved.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9

Jessica’s Sit Down Interview With British Journalist Ramona Portelli of Net TV

*See the full article here.

Jessica is the author of the controversial novels ‘By the Grace’ and the sequel ‘Temptations’. ShelfBloom Publishing called her work “riveting, gripping, raw, real” citing that she has challenged the idea of the traditional church.

An Alabama USA native, Jessica worked as a journalist for over ten years before publishing her first novel. Jessica is a graduate from The University of Alabama with a degree in Journalism and Creative Writing. She lives in the USA with her two sons.

Ramona: How many books have you written so far – name them one by one

Jessica: The first was By the Grace, followed by Temptations and the latest is a novel called Settlers. I have also served as a ghost writer on a few projects.

Ramona: What’s the name of your latest book, and let us know more about it

My novel, Settlers, will be available in February 2019. It is a truly interesting ride. It’s a story of desperation and hope and yes, of love. And, I must thank some of people in my life for this beautiful story. You see, I have friends in just about every age group, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and even 60s. And in spending time with them, I realized that some of them have some pretty interesting love lives. But they all share a common goal, as most of us do – the quest to not be alone. I wondered what would happen if I take the issues from this person and give it to this kind of character and vice versa. I kinda wanted to scramble their lives and see what would happen. And what developed was Settlers, a fascinating story that unfolded in ways I didn’t plan, but it worked out like life…unexpectedly.

Ramona: Being an author, how susceptible are you to getting recognized on the street?

Jessica: I fly way under the radar! I don’t care for a lot of attention for myself, only my work. But, I’m likely to be found anywhere. I get bored very easily, so I will pop up just to try something different. But I am always hiding in the crowd away from the spotlight!

Ramona: Did you ever have a rough patch in writing, where nothing in the story seemed to fit or make sense?

Jessica: I believe every writer will have this problem. Yes, I have several times. When it happens, I just move away from it. If it is meant to happen, it will happen. If not, it will not.

Ramona: How do you think concepts such as Kindle, and e-books have changed the present or future of reading?

Jessica: E-books are a blessing and a curse. Personally, I love to hold my physical paper book. I have books in every room in my house. I have bookshelves stuffed with books. I love them. Also, e-books have been a blessing because it gives us access to books instantly. I have several e-books. There have been many occasions where I heard about a book and the next thing you know, a couple of clicks later, I have the book I want. Sadly, I do believe electronic books will replace our books. I hope not, but it’s inevitable.

Ramona: What weather inspires you the most, in terms of bringing out your literary best?

Jessica: Spring! It is murder on my allergies, but I love spring! Things are new. The weather is perfect for me to go outside with my laptop and just write.

Ramona: What is that dream goal you want to achieve?

Jessica: I would love to be able to just write, create and collaborate with other writers I admire. Do nothing else, just create. Then share that world with others so that they see the beauty. That would be a dream come true for me.

Ramona: If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

Jessica: I would tell her to follow her own path, especially if it is away from the crowd.

Get in touch with Jessica T. Rogers on:-

https://www.facebook.com/jesstrogers

https://twitter.com/JessicaTRogers

www.instagram.com/jessicat.ro

www.jessicatrogers.wordpress.com

No Strings: The Lie About Salvation

Tags

false prophets, God's Love, how to be saved, salvation

When one of my friends came to me and shared that a lot of believers in her circle split over whether or not Jesus died to save everyone or just the people who believe, the first thing I thought was “You idiots!” ( Side Note: I’m a big House M.D. fan.) Seriously, I have to wonder why people sit around and think these things and then spread their philosophy to others and mask it as gospel. Beloved, please remember that the Bible says in 2 Timothy that people will turn away from the truth and instead to those who teach what they want to hear. Watch carefully for these false prophets. They have been placed among us disguised as believers when in truth, they seek their own agenda.

As for the latest, I’ve heard here is the argument:

Salvation is not for anyone until after they believe. God doesn’t save anyone from their sins until after they believe.

Meaning, Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected only for those who believe it. Sounds like these foolish mortals with their flawed flesh are so desperate for exclusivity that they have forgotten that Christ died for all.

ALL.

It’s almost laughable and it would be if it weren’t so sad. My beloved friends, God gave His Son Jesus Christ to save the WORLD. That means EVERYONE has access to salvation. We only have to BELIEVE that Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, died on the cross and was resurrection for the remission of our sins! Period. How hard is that?

There is so much Biblical evidence to dispute this claim. Here are a few from the text.

Romans 5:8
But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:6
For at just the right time, while we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.

Romans 8:32
He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, freely give us all things?

See a pattern? This gift of salvation is for ALL.

For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.

1 Corinthians 15:3-4

Grace and peace,

Blessings and Love!

Jessica’s Interview with Off The Record

Jessica T. Roger’s Chat with Off The Record

Tell me about yourself? And what made you want to be a writer?

I have always wanted to write. I love telling stories whether it is other people’s stories or my own. When I was a little girl, that was my favorite pastime. While the other kids in the neighborhood were out playing, I was in the house with my pencil and paper! It brings me joy and I am grateful for being blessed with this creative outlet.

What attracted you to the particular genre you are involved in? And do you stick with it consistently or do you change it up?

My first love is fiction. I remember reading Beverly Cleary books and The Boxcar Children series when I was little and just getting lost in the stories. It was my great escape. And, it inspired me to create my own little worlds to get lost in also. I switch from mainstream fiction to Christian fiction when I discovered the gospel of the grace of God (Ephesians 2:8-9). I was reborn spiritually and so in love that I wanted to share this great love with the world! What better way to share it than through my stories!

I still write mainstream fiction. Those stories may still have hints of Biblical truth in them but mostly they are stories that have been hidden in my mind and heart that just want to come out. So, I set them free.

What is your writing process like? And how important is research to you when writing a book?

I have to be able to take my time and allow the story to flow. I can’t force anything. If it is a story based on true events, research is very important. When I am in a Christian fiction story, I depend heavily on the King James Bible.

Have you ever experienced “Writer’s Block”? And do you have any tips you would like to share to overcome it?

Yes! And that is usually my queue to “lay it down”—as hard as it is sometimes! I want to get this story out, but it’s not happening! My advice to anyone is to just step away from it, try not the think on it. It will come to you.

So tell me about what you’ve written, and has it been published?

I started out as a journalist writing for newspapers, so I have several stories published. The have published two Christian fiction books so far called By the Grace and Temptations.

If you’ve had your writing published, how has it been received?

My first book didn’t go over so well with the more conservative Christians. It was too raw and gritty. But I can’t apologize for making a story seem real. That’s not the world.

Is there anything you’d change or do differently now that it is published?

Yes! I am learning to listen to those who know how to polish my work. I can’t do this alone.

Speaking of publishing, how did you go about getting you book(s) published, and what was your publishing journey like?

It was soul crushing! When I was told in college, that you have to have thick skin in the business, well that was the best piece of advice! I was rejected so many times that I decided to do this on my own. Sylvester Stallone actually inspired me to do this. He held on to his Rocky script and waited for someone who valued it as much as he valued it. So, I did the same.

Where can potential fans find your book(s)?

My work can be found on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and a few independent book stores in Chattanooga. Also, you can check out my blog at http://www.jessicatrogers.wordpress.com.

Did you do your own artwork for the book cover etc, and if not how did you go about getting it done?

I did not. I partner with some pretty good artists to help with the cover. I have also used Fotolia.

Have you taken on board anything from a review (good or bad) that you’ve later incorporated into your writing?

I can’t say that I have but thanks for the idea!

Are you working on something new at the moment? And can you tell us anything about your current projects?

I am always working on something new. One of the projects is a pre-apocalypse story that I am writing with an old friend. All I can say is that it is so special and so exciting. I cannot wait to share it! Please stay tuned!

How active are you on social media? And if you have social media as an author/for your books then please share links?

You can visit Way of Grace Media to find me.

www.facebook.com/wayofgracemediainc1

www.jessicatrogers.wordpress.com

www.the-naked-christian.tumblr.com

Tell me about some writers you really like and/or admire?

I love the work from Nicole Rouse. I think the best writers of my time include Toni Morrison, Terry McMillan, Stephen King and of course, Maya Angelou.

What advice would you like to give writers who are struggling with their first novels?

At your own pace, keep writing.

And let’s end with something a little different…Which of your character(s) would you take with you to spend the night in a haunted house? Why?

I would take Izzy because she tough and carries a gun! lol

First Published on: https://offtherecordblog.org

Defining True Christian Purpose

Tags

#christianpersecution, #truechristian, christianity, faith

Last week, while waiting on a game to start, I asked a few friends and relatives about their faith.

“Tell me, no jokes, why are you a Christian,” I asked.

After I was lovingly berated for starting such a conversation minutes before a game, my circle got serious and answered proudly, boldly.

“Because I believe Jesus is Lord and He died for my sins.”

This was basically the consensus, but of course I had a follow up. As Christians, what is our motivation? Are we fully committed to what it means to be a follower of Christ?

Are we all in?

Ok, so you believe Jesus really is the begotten son of God. You know that he has atoned for all sin. Now, you just want to share this awesome news.

How far are you willing to go?

As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Romans 8:36

In the Bible, believers were willing to die and suffer all kinds of persecution for the faith. Jesus’s disciples were some of the first to suffer for the gospel.

Peter and Andrew were crucified. Thomas was stabbed (speared). Matthew was stabbed to death. James beaten to death. Matthias was burned alive. Paul was beheaded. And these horrifying killings were just a “drop in the bucket” of people who died all because they were “all in” for Christ.

In some parts of the world even now, our brothers and sisters are being oppressed because of their choice to follow Christ. Christians in China, Egypt, Eritrea, India, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria and Turkey are still being crucified, imprisoned and beaten all because they try to worship Christ, all because they refused to deny Him (Aid to Churches In Need 2017).

Some of us won’t speak up because we are afraid of what others may say. Some of us are afraid of losing money or status. Some of us cower at the idea of being ostracized for our faith.

Would you be willing to take a beating or worse all because you are a disciple of Christ?

Beware of the Gateway Gospel

Our purpose should be to deliver the gospel of Christ unabridged and unapologetically. Now, some people may start out with the express intention of sharing the gospel. But, if they are profiting, be it monetarily or by popularity, it is easy for the message to become lost. It is so simple for the enemy to tarnish the purity of the mission, even if it means abandoning the gospel altogether. This is how cults are formed.

The truth is taught but lies and deceptions are mixed in with the truth making it hard to spot at first. The cure for this is to study the Bible on your own.

…but there be some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.

Galatians 1:7-9

Regardless your motivation, be it for good, for the love of Christ or for self. If the gospel is being preached, God means it for good. In Philippians Paul wrote to the church about others taking advantage of his imprisonment and persecution to preach the gospel. He warned that they may be doing so out of rivalry and some may have been teaching the gospel of Christ out of goodness. His point was that regardless the motivation, Christ was being preached and in that he rejoiced (Philippians 1:15-18).

Now dear beloved friends, the people who are hearing and believing the gospel through these teachers’ selfish intentions or humble intentions, are saved and their reward is in Heaven. But the black hearted ones…well…

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Matthew 7:21-23

Lost in translation

Years ago, when I was a new Christian, I was part of a few social media groups and chatrooms where the purpose was to share the gospel. It was like an online Bible study, if you will. I was eager to share what I learned and in turn, also allow others to edify me.

Sadly, the groups quickly became a breeding grown for confusion. The “believers” frequently got into heated debates that quickly escalated to a virtual brawl. I rarely saw kindness just brash comments stamped with “the gospel of Jesus Christ” in a futile effort to make them righteous.

It was heart breaking. So, I left.

Some people use our faith as a platform for their own selfish motives. It may be for endorsements, to get paid, or to make a name for themselves. Some are just wicked enough to jump into it just to stir the emotions of believers by playing to their beliefs.

Whatever their motives, I hope it is worth it. We will all have to answer for the work we have done here on earth. But I beg you my dear brothers and sisters, to remember our true purpose. Hold in your hearts, our reason for being a Christian.

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:3-11

.

Lean On Me

What defines a church? We gather together and share the gospel. We sing and worship together. We celebrate our joys and we also share our sorrows. As the body of Christ, we share these things together. It is easy to join with someone when things are good. Who doesn’t like to celebrate? But what about the sorrows of others? Are we sharing these too?

Paul wrote to the church in Corinth reminding them that we share in the joy of Christ, but we also share our grievances. We are comforted by God and in turn, we are to pass on that comfort to others.

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4(KJV)

It is our duty to not only share the gospel of Christ, but also to care for the needs of our brothers and sisters. My dear heart, this is honoring God. Who are we to sit in comfort while we know people are suffering?

I have seen many Christians who brag about the material things they have. Be it a big fancy house, expensive cars or lots of “likes” on social media, they actually boast about these things forgetting that they have them to share. Some even brag about their gifts or talents and misuse them.

Oh, what wretched man are we? Right?

Beloved, let us not forget that if our talents or gifts are not used in service to God, they are used in vain. Paul says that if we boast about anything, it should be the fact that we behave with Godly sincerity (2 Corinthians 10:17). This is not meant to say they we are self-righteous. Not one of us is without fault. But we show the world a good example. We show the world the holy spirit within us.

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality.

Colossians 3:23-25

There is truly no excuse to turn our less fortunate brothers and sisters away. The smallest act of charity can mean life or death to a person. You never know. I say again, helping those in need is service to our Father.

Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. ³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, ³⁶ I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ ³⁷ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? ³⁸ And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? ³⁹ And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ ⁴⁰ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers,^[f] you did it to me.’

Matthew 25: 34-40

Over the weekend, my friends and I were feeding the homeless downtown. As we interacted with these people, I could not help but to wonder, why these circumstances exist. Why are so many people in the world suffering? What can we do about it? My son must have read my mind because just as he finished handing out bottles of water, he turned to me and said, “Mom, why can’t we just build this big apartment building and let the homeless live there?”

Oh, the simplicity of a child. Amen?

But as one man told us his story, my friend Amber reminded us that any one of us could be in the same situation at any given time. Life has no special picks. And as much as some Christians like to believe it, God also has no favorites.

Now, I wasn’t feeling my best on Sunday. But I went anyway, because my desire is to help in any way that I can. I don’t have much but anyone who knows me, know that all that I have is open to anyone in need.

We are blessed to share our blessings with others. The Holy Spirit that lives in each of us should not allow us to turn a blind eye to any of those who are in spiritual or physical need.

To our brothers and sisters who are suffering, do not loose heart.

2 Corinthians 4:16

How Christians Should Change the World

Tags

Christianlove, gracegospel, healtheworld

I’m not a big Beyonce fan but on my drive home a few days ago, her song I Was Here, came on in my car. It is a beautiful song about your influence on the world. At least, that’s what I got from it. I started to think about who I influence, or motivate, if anyone. Have I helped to change anyone’s life? Have I made things a little better just because ‘I was here’?

As Christians we have these wandering thoughts, don’t we? Well, I do. I often ask myself if I can do more for the body of Christ. My answer is always yes but my intentions are often smothered by “life”. While we do life here on earth, go to work, pay the bills, have families and careers, our priority should be people, that is sharing God’s love and the gospel with people.

Like Beyonce’s song, I want to know that I have helped to touch someone’s heart. I have helped to save someone and guide them to everlasting love with our Father.

My son is determined to make the world “cleaner”. His summer project was collecting plastic bottles to recycle. He saved every bottle we brought into the house and even picked up a few on his own. We are still making trips to the recycling center. But when I asked him, why he wanted to keep doing this, he told me that he wants his grandchildren to know that he tried to save the environment.

That is his contribution to saving the earth (physically), so be it. Good for him. But later, we all discussed our true reason for being here (on earth). What is our real purpose?

Before you go, leave this earth, how much can you say you have accomplished? Sure, I have a bucket list of things I want to do before I leave. I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to knock out a few things on the list. But as time passes and I get older, I find that the list is not so important. My focus, my priority has shifted.

I have chosen to love people and love them more than I love the earth, more than the universe (which some people worship but that’s another conversation).

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away and there was no more sea.

Revelation 21:1

Courtesy of VineImage

We can influence the world by changing the hearts of mankind. Sounds a little crazy, right? We know that we will not be able to save everyone, but it helps to be a little optimistic about our goal. Can you imagine a world where everyone is happy and in love? Heaven right? Yes, my dear hearts. Think on these things as we strive to share the gospel of the grace of God with everyone.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Philippians 4:8

 

I have decided to love God and to love people so much that my desire is for them to know the gospel of Christ. And knowing this, that Christ died for our sins and we have only to believe this, is love. I am happy to share this with any and everyone, even if it means I forfeit items from my bucket list.

Paul, the apostle in the New Testament retaught this lesson of love in 1 Corinthians 13. Love never fails. Beloved, this is how we leave our mark on the world. This is how we help to make things a little better.

My son is still hard at work leaving his ecological footprint on the earth. But what spiritual footprint will we leave? When we come before our Father in Heaven, what will He say to us? Will he see that we chose material things over the souls of our brothers and sisters?

When you leave this world, will you leave regrets? Or will you be like Paul and boldly say ‘I have fought a good fight. I have finished my course. I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing’ (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Healing Confessions That Give Life

Tags

#celebraterecovery, family, health, Inspiration, peace, prayer, relationship

Joking, I once told a friend that Catholics should be in good mental health with all their confession requirements. Maybe it was distasteful but hey, that’s how we joke. When we speak on it seriously, it’s not funny at all. Many religions believe that confession is an integral part of securing and keeping salvation. That is a lie. But, I submit that confessing your sins to each other can be very healing for relationships and prosperous for your spiritual journey.

Some people may spout scriptures like Romans 6:14 and 22 to make you believe that talking about your sin or struggle is pointless. Don’t fall for that. Make no mistake, sin has no dominion over us. We are forgiven. But this does not mean that you are wrong for talking about your personal struggles.

Not long ago, I felt compelled to make some serious changes in my life. I sought advice from a few trusted friends. To receive true advice, I had to first fess up.

While it is not a requirement to confess your sins to anyone, there is a reason we are encouraged to do so. Don’t you think?

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.

James 5:16

Confessing your sins to each other is not an absolute to go to heaven. Trust me, God already knows about them and forgave every one of them on the cross. Remember the thief hanging there next to Jesus? Jesus gave him an instant entrance ticket to heaven. And my heart, you have the same. When Jesus said, ‘It is finished’, he meant it.

But, something beautiful happens when we unload our burdens. Find that dear trusted friend, and just allow them to share your load. If this is not an option, write it down in a letter to yourself (burn the letter after you read it) and take the cleansing breath of relief. Feel better? Can you feel that weight being lifted off? Are you sleeping better now?

This healing is a necessity if we are to continue to teach and share the gospel. Part of our beauty is in our faults. If we were perfect, we would not need a Savior. God does not expect us to be perfect. After all, we are perfected through Him. But, that does not mean that we should not strive to live clean lives (1 Corinthians 1:8, Hebrews 12:13).

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.

Philippians 1:9-10

We cannot move and continue our work here on earth if we are bound. Beloved, I speak from experience when I say, it only encompasses you. Let it go. Anything that is hidden cannot be healed (Psalms 32:3).

Grace and peace,

Blessings and love,

Time For Truth

Tags

christianity, religion, truthtime

The word “truth” has been in the media a lot lately. So much that I dare say, it seems to be losing its power, weakening,  as man(kind) distorts its meaning for personal gain. Phrases like “alternative facts”, “my truth” and “truth isn’t truth” are becoming so common. And, as ridiculous as I personally think they all sound, the reality is Truth is what it is, truth. It needs no adjective, no possessive phrase. Beloved, anything added to or taken away from truth is your opinion.

And speaking of truth, we need to get back to sharing the truth, our Christian faith. Is that not why we are here? Are we not saved from our sins, renewed in our spirit to share the gospel of Christ with everyone?

When it is not popular, we speak truth.

When we are called “anti” this or that, we speak truth.

When we are beaten and outcast, we speak truth.

When the rest of the world conforms, we speak truth.

At the risk of loosing everything worldly, we speak truth.

We speak it brazenly.

We speak it repeatedly.

We speak it proudly.

Because we count all things as loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (Philippians 3:8).

Now, what is truth?

The truth is that God, the Creator of the Universe, favors no one person, country, nation or entity over another (Romans 2:11). God sent his son Jesus Christ to die for the atonement of ALL sin committed past, present and future (Romans 4:25). God does not require anyone to perform any ritual to go to Heaven (Ephesians 2:8-9). If you believe that Christ, the only begotten son of God, was born into the world, died and rose from the dead to atone for your sins, you are saved from your sins. You are a part of the body of Christ. You, beloved, will be caught up when He returns to take the members of his Body home to Heaven.

And for this cause, we speak truth, persecuted but not forsaken; cast down but not destroyed (2 Corinthians 4:9).

Grace and peace,

Blessings and love,

Hope of Glory: Christians Battle Depression Too

Tags

#celebraterecovery, #christiansanddepression, #thenakedchristian

I have a mental illness. Now, up until a few years ago I was afraid to admit this, even to myself. The term “mental illness” to so many, has been likened to the word “crazy”. Even I used to hear the word and automatically picture someone running around with wild eyes and hair, screaming for no reason. Of course, I know this way of thinking is sheer ignorance. Now I know better. But, back then I was ashamed to admit that like 40 million people in the United States, I suffer from depression and an anxiety disorder (Anxiety and Depression Association of America).

Nowadays, awareness of the disease has increased with the help of celebrities like Alyssa Milano and Kelly Roland. People have become more understanding. Even the Christian community has slowly started to come out of the shadows when it comes to understanding depression and anxiety disorders. But, the stigma still hovers in many Christian communities.

When I was younger, I tried to get some relief from my suffering. I turned to my church and to my family. The responses I received made things worse. I heard “stop trying to play victim”, “just pray, you have to believe”, “just stop making things up in your head” and finally the solution: “Just suck it up.”

“It’s all in your head,” they said.

And I say to them, yeah, it is all in my head. The mind is also part of the body. Each body part is susceptible to illness. And where does the enemy attack first? The mind. So, while you let that sink in, I’ll continue.

I tried to suck it up but none of their advice helped. It wasn’t until a near successful suicide attempt that my family and friends saw that I was really in pain. They finally knew that my smile was a lie.

How It Started

At first, I didn’t realize that something was off balance. Everything seemed normal. I went about my days same as usual. Then, I started to notice failure after failure. I magnified every little thing that happened. Things that most people would just shrug off, I couldn’t let go. I wasn’t feeling like myself. I self-medicated with positive thinking memes on social media. I added a few more daily devotional subscriptions to my inbox. I tried to stay positive. I continued to attend church, Bible study groups, and my volunteer work. After all, helping others is the best way to forget about my own issues, right?

But the self-help was starting to feel moot. I started going to bed earlier, sometimes with the aid of Nyquil. I would read the memes and think “meh”, then delete. I read some of the devotional scripture, but that uplifted feeling was gone once I closed my email. So, I decided to get busier doing more things. I took on extra projects, hoping the distraction will jolt me back to my old self.

Then, I started to have that overwhelming feeling that everything I had done and was doing was just a never-ending cycle of nothing. Nothing mattered. It was all pointless. I was pointless. And coupled with these creeping thoughts of despair were feelings of sheer anxiety. The “what ifs” plagued my mind.

What if I don’t get this bill paid off?

What if he has been using me all this time?

What if I can’t get this long list of things done?

I can’t do anything right! I always do this to myself! I am worthless!

And the depression had finally arrived. The stress of it all made me feel physically, mentally and emotionally drained. My only desire was to sleep. Sleep, until it all went away.

I wanted help. But, I was a Christian, a leader in my church. Christians don’t believe in depression. If I confessed my illness, everyone would think that I had lost my faith or never had it. Everyone would think I am not saved and there is no Holy Spirit within me.

This fear intensified the problem. Having lived under the credence that Christians don’t suffer depression, I started to question my own faith.

There Is Hope

So, what do you do when the spirit of hopelessness comes over you? You are saved. The Holy Spirit lives in you but still hopelessness does not escape you. In fact, you are more at risk because, the enemy, Lucifer, knows you have promise.

What do you do?

The reality is that there is really no instant cure for depression. Like any treatment, it takes time to fix. But, the great comfort comes in knowing that those conflicting thoughts invading your psyche are a complete lie, a failed trick of the devil. You are saved. You have the hope of glory. And God wants you to live in that peace. That is what we must look forward to.

Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Colossians 1:24

My dear brothers and sisters in love, do not allow anyone to deny you the peace that our Father and Savior, Jesus Christ, has for you. Think on this, He loved you, your sweet soul, so much that He was willing and did die for you! Mental illness like any other illness of the body sometimes requires medical attention. A sickness of the mind does not mean that you have failed as a child of God. It does not mean that you can just “shake it off”. It does not mean that you can just pray it away (James 2:26). Even Paul, in the book of Timothy he advised to “…use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities” (1 Timothy 5:23).

So, beloved do not let anyone judge you as you seek the Godly peace you deserve. We do not suffer alone. I did get the help I needed through counseling and yes, for a while, medication. Fortunately, my circle has evolved and now understand my depression a little more now. A few have even admitted to have suffered from it as well. In this, we rejoice because we should not be alone. As Christians, we uplift and encourage each other. We try to be sympathetic to the needs of others.

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

1 Thessalonians

And as we fight the good fight, whether it is within ourselves or the evil of the world, we take one of the last gifts Jesus gave his disciples before He was crucified for us: peace.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. –Jesus

John 14:27