Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee's Support of Hillary Clinton

On May 14, 2007, the Clinton Campaign announced the endorsement of Texas Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and named her a National Campaign Co-Chair and Gulf States Regional Co-Chair. In her endorsement of Senator Clinton Lee stated, ”I am pleased today to endorse Hillary Rodham Clinton for President. Senator Clinton has a great love for America and has a deep understanding of the issues that face our nation. I look forward to having a strategic role in the campaign and helping this dedicated public servant become the next President of the United States.”



As I have stated in a previous post, I truly admire Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee. In that same posting I wrote: “ Why would Congresswoman Shelia Jackson-Lee or any other Black elected official continue in their roles in Senator Clinton’s campaign? What can their girl Hillary say to them after Bill has embraced right wing talk radio hosts led by Limbaugh? What future post or job is worth selling the hopes and dream of one’s race to a couple that would do and say anything to return to the White House?” I now believe that I may have answers to the above-mentioned questions.
http://politics.yourblackworld.com/2008/03/hillarys-nuclear-option-position-me-or.html


Congressman Sheila Jackson-Lee will be Vice President on a Senator Hillary Clinton ticket for the Presidency. How you may ask did I come to the conclusion that Jackson-Lee is slated for the VP slot on the ticket? I am glad that you asked.



On Thursday, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi make public comments that included the statement “Take it from me there will be a dream ticket but it won’t be these two candidates together (Obama and Clinton).


The Speaker’s statement reminded me of a reply that I received while participating on a live call on a local political program in Houston. After I asked the panel what post did Clinton promise Jackson-Lee for her support one of the host responded that rumor has it that Lee will be the Vice President on Hillary’s ticket.


Does Hillary Clinton, Congresswomen Lee, and Nancy Pelosi, think that Senator Obama’s loyal and die-hard supporters will embrace Clinton as the Democratic nominee just because Congresswoman Shelia Jackson-Lee is on the ticket? News flash to Hillary, Jackson Lee, the world, and Hillary’s entire campaign staff the answer is a resounding “NO.”



I am very passionate in my support for Senator Obama. I believe in my heart that this is a divine time for Obama and this country. We all know that our God works in mysterious ways. God has given all of us free will. I hope and pray that people in power will not let greed and the need for more power cause them to self-destruct as a democracy and as a nation.


As a race of people we are all familiar with the passage in the bible that states that the greatest country in the world is going to fail. It is my belief that America is that country.

In one of my posting titled ”A Prayer for the Protection of Senator Barack Obama” I wrote in part: “God we know that the enemy comes to seek, to devour, and to destroy. Father God please protect Obama from the people of this world who do the enemy’s works on the earth.


Lord we have seen what the enemy has done in Pakistan and Kenya. Please Lord protect this country from the same type of election turmoil, confusion, and strife that is the current reality of those two countries and in other nations on the earth.



Please Father God spare us from the fate and the division caused during the 2000 presidential election. Please God place it in the hearts and minds of this nation and its people the wisdom and courage to demand and respect an orderly, fair, and impartial political process during this historic election year. Lord we pray that America will once again be a true example of democracy, love, and peace to the rest of the world.”

http://gospel.yourblackworld.com/2008/01/my-mother-was-prayer-warrior-who-went.html



Karl Rove and the Republican Party successfully split the Black vote by giving “cash” to black churches and by placing the gay marriage issue on the ballot in key states. My uncle, two sisters, and many members of a previous church voted for George Bush. My sisters and uncle would later tell me that Bush tricked them.



The Clintons, Republicans, or the Democratic Party will not trick us as a people. It is now time for America and the Democratic Party to put up or shut up. This country has preached that Affirmative Action is not needed because America offers equal opportunity to all of its citizens.



According to many White Americans, if Black Americans worked hard, were law abiding, and obtained a good education they could obtain any position in this nation and achieve the American dream. The ultimate American position and/or dream is the become the President of the United States of America.



Senator Barack Obama has played by all the rules. He has worked hard and has by all account ran an excellent campaign. He has won more pledged delegates, states, and votes than Clinton. The super delegates of the Democratic Party must support Obama as the nominee if at the end of the primary process he has won more pledge delegates and has more votes than Senator Clinton.



As a nation we united after we were attacked by al-Qaeda led by Osama bin Laden on September 11, 2001. Therefore, we know that it is possible for this country to unite. Under the leadership of President Barack Obama this country will once again stand united as one nation under God.



The Clintons with all of their baggage cannot and will not unite this country. Our entire nation suffered during the impeachment proceedings of President William Jefferson Clinton and the Monica Lewinsky saga. Having the Clintons in the White House again would be extremely bad for America in general and for Black Americans in particular.



Lastly Congresswoman Lee if I am wrong in my assumption that Senator Clinton has promised you the Vice Presidency for your support please forgive me. If I am correct please don’t let the Clintons or anyone else use you to seek and/or secure a THIRD term for President Bill Clinton or a THIRD term for the failed policies of George Bush.



Vera Richardson is the author of “A Case of Racial Discrimination and Retaliation Real Or Imagined.”http://www.lulu.com/content/1362173

We are called to be sheep so why do we sometimes behave like ostriches?

We are called to be sheep so why do we sometimes behave like ostriches?

Job 39:

13 "The ostrich flaps her wings grandly, but they are no match for the feathers of the stork.
The ostrich is not like the stork. She is prideful and arrogant as she flaps about, the sound of the ostrich is a shrill wailing. The ostrich makes such flagrant moves because she believes she looks good and wants to be seen so she makes a scene. (It was once fashionable for women to wear hats adorned with ostrich plumes.) However, the beautiful and valuable feathers of the ostrich are not equal to those of the stork.



The stork is gentle. She is not wild nor is she arrogantly strutting about creating a chaotic commotion. In contrast the stork leads a calm and serene life.


As we consider the characteristics of these two creatures we can see perhaps that differences in what carnal and godly people display in life. Perhaps one might say the stork embodies the fruit of the spirit.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:22 -26
The ostrich is an example of one living selfishly and stupidly, regarding and respecting no one. She is full of vain glory, she is provocative, and is envious and desires to be envied.

Sadly, in life many of us do envy the ostriches, those ostentatious persons, who speak too loudly, too often, too much, too coarsely, and with too little prayer. We can find ostriches in the church. Often they are talented and gifted but they are rarely beneficial to the ministry because it is so difficult to work with them. When compliments are given out they always find a way to redirect the shine on themselves, seemingly mindless that we as Christians do all to the glory of God in the name of Jesus and never in our own names.

Job 39: 14 She lays her eggs on top of the earth, letting them be warmed in the dust. 15 She doesn't worry that a foot might crush them or that wild animals might destroy them. 16 She is harsh toward her young, as if they were not her own. She is unconcerned though they die, 17 for God has deprived her of wisdom. He has given her no understanding. 18 But whenever she jumps up to run, she passes the swiftest horse with its rider.

Ostriches do not understand their responsibility to God is demonstrated by serving others. Sadly, those ostriches who do become mothers never seem to connect with their children, their careless behavior does not cease while they are pregnant and continues after they give birth.

Allowing her eggs to be warmed in the dust is the same as allowing one’s fetus to be developed in whatever carnal environment one finds oneself. She has not concern for establishing a covenant relationship and building a home in which she can warm and protect her eggs. Carefully, determining what will be allowed into the environment in which she will raise her young. No the ostrich allows the eggs to wallow about in the dust unprotected.

Ostriches do not concern themselves with the wild asses, dogs, swine, and other animals of prey that may attack her eggs. She does not consider that humans walking about hunting may be unaware that an egg is lying about and may unintentionally crush it.

Should the fragile eggs reach maturity the ostrich is detached from her young and cruel to them, she lacks maternal connection and concern. God has deprived her of wisdom. This is not because God is unloving.

Job 28:28 And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that [is] wisdom; and to depart from evil [is] understanding.

Pro 1:7 The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Pro 9:10 The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy [is] understanding.

Pro 15:33 The fear of the LORD [is] the instruction of wisdom; and before honour [is] humility.


God has never changed, He is available to all who seek Him. Often we see people in the church who confess Christ but who seemingly have not completed the conversion…they are hanging onto some ostrich feathers. Maybe we ourselves have some treasured ostrich feathers.

Perhaps we are guilty of a little flapping about and grandstanding when we should be meekly and obediently following. Likewise, we may be careless with the young or young in the faith in our life.

If we are not mothers, we are not excused from nurturing responsibility of the children God brings into our lives whether in our extended family, church family, community, or by circumstance.

Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us. James 1:27

We must be able to discern that the children of the ostrich are spiritual orphans. Their mothers may be visible but that does not mean she is providing a viable parental support. Moreover, we cannot allow our disdain for her choices to divert us from our responsibility from caring for the children. It may well be the children of the ostrich who lead her to Jesus. Moreover, when we allow the ostriches in the church or in the world to determine our course of action then we have allowed ourselves to be corrupted.

Amazingly, the ostrich has two known characteristics: swiftness and foolishness. There are two sayings “foolish as an ostrich” or “swift as an ostrich”. The ostrich when sensing fear does not have a fight or flight sense, she will bury her head in the sand or she will run from her problems.

Ostriches burying their heads in the sand refuse to see what everyone around them sees. Her finances are a mess and she continues shopping. She changes who the name of who she is dating but basically it is the same old character with same old problems and she cannot understand why she has relationship troubles. Her attitude is negative and she talks more than she listens which results in her having problems with roommates, friends, on the job, and even in public and she just does not receive the message she needs to make an adjustment. We have all been there and we all know some ostriches. When you catch yourself in an ostrich moment ask yourself when the last time you were in the fellowship of the saints was. Why? Because sheep are flock animals they are safe in the fold being led by the shepherd. Ostriches are proud and arrogant, mean, and can even be violent…they rarely travel in flocks, now maybe you see a few in a pack.

Ostriches running from trouble wait for no one. She will abandon children, friends, job, and church. Often she does not even seek to obtain the details to see if there is a true problem or if resolution is possible. She allows her fear to rule and she goes on the run. Someone whispers there is trouble and she pulls a disappearing act – no notice, no remorse.

Sadly, the meanness of the ostrich will allow her to try and move on without considering what or who she has abandoned. She will use any manipulation to be the innocent or the victim…rumor and innuendo is a favorite tactic.

Perhaps we have been guilty of giving in, giving out, or giving up too soon. We must remember our faith is strengthened in the congregation. It is through Bible study fellowship, personal devotional periods, prayer, and consistent commitment to God that is expressed through consistent commitment to a local congregation that we grow, serve, and worship. It is during the fellowship that we become more like sheep. We need to come together as often and regularly as possible so that develop and maintain sheep characteristics and tendencies.


Hebrews 10:21 And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God's people, 22 let us go right into the presence of God, with true hearts fully trusting him. For our evil consciences have been sprinkled with Christ's blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. 23 Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 24 Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.
26 Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received a full knowledge of the truth, there is no other sacrifice that will cover these sins. 27 There will be nothing to look forward to but the terrible expectation of God's judgment and the raging fire that will consume his enemies. 28 Anyone who refused to obey the law of Moses was put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29 Think how much more terrible the punishment will be for those who have trampled on the Son of God and have treated the blood of the covenant as if it were common and unholy. Such people have insulted and enraged the Holy Spirit who brings God's mercy to his people.

May God grant us the grace and strength to be sheep even if there ostriches in our midst. Amen.

Governor Eliot Spitzer – The Truth Will Be Revealed

Governor Spitzer is a fraud and he should resign. He is the poster child for hypocrisy. I was lying in bed today watching CNN when the news anchor announced the breaking news that Governor Eliot Spitzer was accused of being involved in a prostitution ring. Spitzer's involvement in the ring was caught on a federal wiretap as part of an investigation opened in recent months, according to The Associated Press.

Spitzer victimized me in his role of Attorney General of New York State. Governor Spitzer was the New York State Attorney General (he was elected in November 1998) when a member of his staff Mike Russo, Assistant New York State Attorney General, willfully and knowingly filed seven perjured declarations and affirmations in the United States District Court of Western New York.

The declarations were filed to prevent a jury from ruling that the Defendants violated the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended. I believe that by filing the perjured declarations New York State Attorney General’s Office also victimized me. Once again I encountered racism, this time in the judicial system.

Mike Russo filed the perjured declarations in support of the Defendant’s motion for summary judgment and in opposition to my motion for summary judgment. G. Goncalves, Diversity Management, Mike Russo, Superintendent A. Andrews, Sergeant William Reed, James Berbary, Deputy Superintendent of Administration, Mary Beth Lindsay, Senior Personnel Clerk and Lee Gould, Director of Personnel New York State Department of Corrections all signed sworn perjured declarations.

In my Book titled “A Case of Racial Discrimination and Retaliation Real or Imagined” I discussed some of the evidence including direct evidence and legal argument that I presented to the United States District Court Western District of New York, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. The evidence proved that seven of the declarations, filed by the New York State Attorney General’s office were false.
http://politics.yourblackworld.com/2008/02/personal-cry-for-justice.html

On May 28, 2005, an Erie County, New York Assistant District Attorney reviewed my documentation of multiple perjury allegations against New York Attorney General's Office and various New York employees.

I was told by the Erie County District Attorney’s office that the statute of limitations on perjury is 5 years. The declarations were submitted in September and November 2000. The perjured depositions were recorded on October 98 (1) June 8, 2000.

After his reviewed he referred me to the United States Justice Department. I contacted the United States Justice Department and at their telephone request e-mailed extensive documentation on May 29, 30, and 31, 2005.

In July 2005 Jane Wolfe and Allison Gioia both United States Justice Department attorneys, reviewed my perjury allegations and direct evidence supporting the allegations. The United States Justice Department informed me that they were referring my case to the FBI for an investigation. I telephoned the FBI and was told that they could not confirm or deny the fact that my allegations were being investigated because of confidentiality rules.

I am so full and thankful that Governor Spitzer true character has been exposed. If we hold on and trust in God he will deliver us from all of our enemies. I know that I will finally receive justice in my case.

PSALM 54 The Lord is Our Helper

Save me, O God, by thy name, and judge me by thy strength.
Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth.
For strangers are risen up against me, and oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set God before them. Selah.

Behold, God is mine helper: the Lord is with them that uphold my soul.

He will reward evil unto mine enemies: cut them off in thy truth.

I will freely sacrifice unto thee: I will praise thy name, O LORD; for
it is good.

For he had delivered me out of all trouble: and mine eye hath seen his desire upon mine enemies.

Vera Richardson is the author of “A Case of Racial Discrimination and Retaliation Real or Imagined."
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/customer-images/0615177018/ref=cm_ciu_pdp_images_all/gallery

Just Believe!

But Moses protested again, "Look, they won't believe me! They won't do what I tell them.

They'll just say, `The LORD never appeared to you.' "Exodus 4:1

This morning’s inspirational reading delivered to me in an e-newsletter from Foundation for A Better Life blessed my soul. As I sat at my desk contemplating the day and scanning my electronic messages I couldn’t help but pause, reflect on the message and thank God! All the doubtful thoughts were under arrest, my thinking was changed. My spirit must have shouted, "About face! " The words that moved me and stirred my soul silently ushered me to mentally reverence the moment and the many acts of kindness that God had bestowed on me and my circle of loved ones. Lord knows that there's much to beleive Him for! And there it was right before my eyes!

What were the words you asked? What had I read?

“First thing every morning before you arise say out loud, 'I believe,' three times.”
—Norman Vincent Peale (1898-1993), author, preacher

Without hesitation I dropped my head and silently began to praise God! I wanted to cry tears of joy but knew I’d be a real mess and my work day attire and work appearance would be over. So I tried to hold it together. "No Lord, please no runny eye makeup, creating raccoon eyes and no runny noise, I have no tissue! "It was as though I was on tip toes, my heart and tear ducts would burst if I wasn’t careful. I tried to be still with my praise at work. "So far, so good !" I am sure that’s what I felt. But friends God was at work and I couldn’t control the flood of inward praise- a litany of praise rolled out of my heart and spilled from my lips! Joy was birthed! Praise declarations announced a stream of I Believe's:

God I do believe that you love me and your love rescues and restores us! Lord thank you!
God I do believe that my son and daughters will succeed and reach out to many others! Lord thank you!
God I do believe the best is yet to come and you hear our prayers! Lord thank you!
God I do believe that I have the heart to forgive! Lord thank you!
God I do believe we’ll make it through the sun and the rain! Lord, thank you!

For a moment friends embrace the belief that if you still your spirit, lift up a prayer of thanksgiving your outlook will invariably change! I am sure thatyour heart will be refreshed and elevated with excitement regarding the possibilities that can be manifested; if you have the heart to believe!

Finally, in your minds eye reflect on His abiding love, gifts of grace and mercy and watch God speak through your spirit and pronounce your beliefs! Just believe God, believe God for your very life, your spiritual sustenance, your real need!

Does your reverence for God give you no confidence?Shouldn't you believe that God will care for those who are upright?Job 4:6 (NIV)

Joyfully submitted by Linda Mose Meadows
Author of: The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://www.blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Hillary Clinton’s Determination to Win – The Nuclear Option

Psalm 40 : 1-4

[[To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.]] I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.

He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, [and] established my goings.

And he hath put a new song in my mouth, [even] praise unto our God: many shall see [it], and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

Blessed [is] that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.

I am frighten for this country and the Democratic Party because it appears that the Clintons have decided on the nuclear option for the 2008 Presidential election. Hillary doesn’t care if she splits the country or the Democratic Party apart in the process. Hillary Clinton actions and words demonstrate that the next President of the United States will be either her or John McCain.

Evidence to support the above-mentioned statement that it’s either Hillary or McCain is found in the Limbaugh and Clinton connection. After Limbaugh ran into Bill Clinton in a NYC restaurant in May 2007 he had to explain his civil behavior to his outraged audience. Fast-forward to February 2008, and the two political arch rivals may have formed an alliance.

On February 29, 2008, Laura Ingram was the guest host on The O’Reilly Factor. Ingram interviewed Rush Limbaugh. In an effort to secure victory for the Republican Party Limbaugh urged Republican voters in Texas to vote for Hillary Clinton in the Democratic primaries in Texas and Ohio.

On Tuesday March 4, 2008, Clinton won both primaries in Texas and Ohio. This week Bill Clinton appeared as a guest on The Rush Limbaugh talk radio show and was interviewed by a guest host because Rush was not present. This is appalling, why hasn’t Senator Clinton denounced and rejected Limbaugh’s endorsement?

I am having a reality check about the pending election process and the fact that this country is going “backwards.” I am amazed that some black are still supporting the Clintons. I cannot wrap my brain around the fact that 16 percent of Black voters cast ballots for Senator Clinton in Texas.

Additionally, why would Congresswoman Shelia Jackson-Lee or any other Black elected official continue in their roles in Senator Clinton’s campaign? What can their girl Hillary say to them after Bill has embraced right wing talk radio hosts led by Limbaugh? What future post or job is worth selling the hopes and dream of a one’s race to a couple that would do and say anything to return to the White House?

Vera Richardson is the author of “A Case of Racial Discrimination and Retaliation Real or Imagined.”

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?r=1&EAN=9780615177014

We need one another

We need one another to make it through the day and to make it from here to eternity. God created us for fellowship with Him and one another.

Greatness is often learned in the moments of deepest despair. Our valleys empower us to climb mountains. The rivers we cross produce stamina and strength that we need to swim against the current. The fellowship developed while aiding one in need or receiving aid while we are in need affirm the love of Christ continues and is a testimony the world.

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not [his] brother abideth in death. 1 John 3:14

Hereby perceive we the love [of God], because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down [our] lives for the brethren. 1 John 3:16

As we climb mountains we encounter those who are on the journey to fully knowing Jesus. We interact with some who inspire us with their faith and encourage us with their testimony. There are those who need us to help them along the way. It is necessary for us to help and to be helped. If you find you do not have the balance for climbing higher ask God if it is because you are not allowing others to help you or if it s because you have not helped anyone?

It seems odd that we would swim against the current until you realize that resistance builds strength. Far too often we find ourselves just going along...not making any waves. However, we were created to make a difference, we were created for good works in Christ Jesus. Everywhere Christ went He made a difference. What difference have you made lately?

Mountain climbing and river crossing are best done in collaboration. So too is living a disciplined life of Christian faith. God wants us to stay together for together we have power and strength. We need each other.

Hebrews 10:23 -2523 Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. 24 Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near. {NLT}

Bishop Desmond Tutu explained the ancient African concept of ubuntu - which is much like the Christian concept of fellowship.

Ubuntu is a concept that we have in our Bantu languages at home.
Ubuntu is the essence of being a person. It means that we are people through other people. We cannot be fully human alone. We are made for
interdependence, we are made for family. When you have ubuntu, you embrace others. You are generous, compassionate. If the world had more ubuntu, we would not have war. We would not have this huge gap between the rich and the poor. You are rich so that you can make up what is lacking for others. You are powerful so that you can help the weak, just as a mother or father helps their children. This is God's dream.

Come let us worship and serve the Lord, Jesus Christ and fulfill His prayerful desire for us as recorded in John 17:21

My prayer for all of them is that they will be one, just as you and I are one, Father-that just as you are in me and I am in you, so they will be in us, and the world will believe you sent me. John 17:21 NLT

A New Way Of Living

In my last article, I quoted a scripture from the book of Romans that is probably familiar to most Christians. What I would like to do here is to go over that same scripture and some related thoughts in order to clarify and expand upon their meaning and relevance to our lives today.

Paul the apostle said this, "For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing; for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not; but the evil which I would not, that I do." (Rom, 7:18-19)

In the context of this chapter, what Paul is specifically talking about is the inablility we have in keeping God's law in order to attain salvation. God's law demands perfect obedience, but because of "sin" in our fallen flesh, we do not have the power to keep it perfectly. That is why Jesus came, so that he could keep it for us. And it is through our faith in Christ as our substitute, that we can enjoy the blessings of salvation as if we kept the whole law ourselves.

But more than this, this scripture typifies our condition even "after" we have accepted Jesus as our savior and have been "born again." You see, even though our souls are redeemed through our faith in Christ, our "flesh" is not; at least not yet. Paul said this,

"For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the first fruits of the spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waithing for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body." (Rom. 8:22-23)

So, even though we have received the first fruits of the Spirit, (i.e. the born again experience and the promise of eternal life) our bodies are not yet redeemed. That is, our flesh is still mortal, has sin in it, and is subject to the power of sin. Simply put, we still don't have the power within ourselves to fulfill God's requirements in our lives. That is where the word of God and our faith come into play again. Just as our faith in Jesus saved us and supernaturally changed us spiritually, our faith in the word of God will supernaturally "transform" us and enable us to "do" the things we are commanded to do, (despite the sin in our flesh). And as in our salvation, it won't be by our own "trying," but it will be through our faith in God's word and through God's supernatural power.

It is worthy to note here, that the commands we have to live a righteous life after salvation are not intended to keep us in good standing with God. That would be impossible. We would have to keep those commands perfectly to do so. No, we are "... justified by faith without the deeds of the law." (Rom. 3:28) The reason that we are commanded by God to live righteously is for our own good and for the good of those around us. Living right has good consequences and sin has bad consequences. God wants us to live right in order to enjoy the benefits of a righteous life and to avoid the consequences of sin, just like any good parent would. (Gal. 6:7-9)

The wonderful thing about all of this, (and the point of this article) is that God provides us with the power to live righteously. And the bible calls this way of living "walking in the Spirit."

Paul says, "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary the one to the other; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would." (Gal. 5:16-17)

If we do not learn what it means to "walk in the Spirit," we will continually be trying in our own strength to please God and to do well, and will be struggling with a flesh that does not have the ability to do either.

"Very" basically, "walking in the Spirit" means to believe in what God's word says about us, rather than what we think about or see in ourselves. It is believing that in Christ we are already what we need to be and already have what we need to have, rather than trying to produce any of it ourself. It is believing rather than trying, and the key to this way of living is the "new birth." It is key because when we accept Christ as our savior a real change occurs on the inside of us; the "spiritual" part of us. We are made into "new creatures" where "all things are of God" and we are once again created in God's image. (2 Cor. 5:17)

Our "new man" is the spiritual person within us that is Christ-like already. And it will be our faith in who we now are in Christ, (rather than the person that we see on the outside), that will empower us to do what we are called to do. It will bring what is on the inside to the outside. Paul called this, being "transformed by the renewing of our mind." (Rom. 12:1-2) It is a new way of thinking, and living, (one of believing rather than trying) but is the only way that will enable us to do the things which we cannot do ourselves.

This does not mean however, that we neglect our natural lives and doing the best that we can. It means that while we are doing the best we can in the natural, we are developing our faith in the word of God in order to enhance and empower our natural lives supernaturally. I have heard it called "putting God's super on our natural."

Most Christians understand that we "are saved by grace through faith," but then try living by works. They try to be the best Christians that they can be. But as Paul said, that is futile. What they don't realize is that it is just as impossible to live the Christian life by trying harder as it is "becoming" a Christian by trying harder. Our call is to believe, not do, and it is the believing that will bring the transformation needed for us to "do."

The Old Testament was about what man was required to "do." And it proved to be impossible. The New Testament is about what man is required to "believe." (It was Jesus alone who fulfilled God's law, so we need first to believe in Jesus for salvation and then believe in whom we become in Christ in order to be able to live the Christian life). It is by believing in God's word that will save us and will also empower us to do those things that we cannot do ourselves. It is the difference between believing and trying, where trying just doesn't work. It has to be by faith, and not by our works or trying for, "The just shall live by faith." (Gal. 3:11)

The bible says, "Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest," that is, the "rest" of the finished work of Christ in us. When we begin believing that we are already Christ-like, that we are already as good as we need to be, that we are already pleasing to God, (rather then "trying" to be that way) then we will begin the process of being able to live just like that.

Trying harder and putting demands on ourselves only makes our problems worse. It will actually "strengthen" sin, because, "...The strength of sin is the law." (1Cor. 15:56) BUT, if we "Walk in the Spirit, we shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh." (Gal. 5:16, my paraphrase) Without understanding this concept and knowing how to apply it properly in our lives, Christianity will become a vicious cycle of commitments, trying, failure, guilt and disappointment; a life of enslavement to standards that we can never live up to. Freedom, rest, and empowerment will only come by walking in the Spirit.

It really is a matter of understanding what it means to "walk in the spirit." So, because of the importance and the all encompassing nature of this way of life, my articles will always employ facets of this concept. However, if this is new to you or you would like to reinforce the understanding that you already have, I would strongly suggest a book by Watchman Nee entitled, "Sit, Walk, Stand." This little book does a better job than I can do in short articles, and serves as a tremendous foundation on this "New Testament" way of living. No other book that I have read, with the exception of the bible, has helped me to properly align my thinking and my doing to the New Testament way of thinking and doing than this one.

So, if you want to learn how to stop living on a treadmill of exhausting effort; always trying to be and do good enough and never feeling like you quite make the grade, and instead find out how to tap into God's power and freedom and rest in your Christian life, this book is an excellent place to start.

Submitted by John B. Agati

Author of: "Suffering (God's Will?)"

More information about this and an upcoming book "Suffering, Unanswered Prayer, (And How to Fix the Whole Thing)," along with a short bio may be found at: http://www.jbagati.com/

Whatever You Want Me to Give You

That night God appeared to Solomon in a dream and said, "What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!" 2Ch 1:7 (NIV)

I just couldn’t gather the momentum to do my morning dance in preparation for work; I was under the weather, tired, and drained. There was no push available – I realized I needed the rest. The body said, “Nope!” and I said, “Okay!” After awakening I realized that I needed some spiritual sustenance, it was the brunch needed. My spirit was saying:

Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen,
I will be exalted in the earth Psa 46:10 (NIV)

This was a quite moment, a moment to be still and pray; reflect on not only my needs, but how sparse my prayer life had been in the midst of some really hectic and stressed filled days. My spiritual armor had some dings and dents and my hit and miss prayer life was missing the mark. Today I was glad I choose not to push myself and finally I awoke refreshed and knew before I did anything, I at least owed God his due praise, so I gathered my favorite study bible, prayer book and wouldn’t you know it as I read a prayer, and reread the prayer seeking Guidance and Wisdom there were two scripture references. God had made it really very easy for me and you today friends through the author of the prayer which referenced two scriptures 2 Chronicles 1 and Job 12. I never got to Job 12-I really appreciated 2 Chronicles and stopped there.

When I flipped open my bible there it was friends, notes I written some time ago about the importance of prayer-short clips that I must have written during a worship service or bible lesson that spoke to the importance of prayer. Some of my notes that were written read as: devout, reverent praise and adoration, submission, daily business of saints, voice reaching the ear of God, routine, laboring before God, birthed out of the spirit from your heart! Visible presence of God through the Holy Spirit, His Shekinah Glory! Oh friends my notes taken during a time I had long forgotten, blessed and reminded me what was missing in my fatigued state were God’s exact words and a healthier, more consistent prayer life!

And then as I read the scripture, it was evident that God was clearly speaking to me when I read of King Solomon’s prayer to God’s question in 2 Chronicles 1:7 WHATEVER YOU WANT ME TO GIVE YOU! My spirit said, “Hey, hey that’s God talking, he’s asking the question, He’s making the request! He’s honoring Solomon’s prayer!”

All I can say is quickly reference the scriptures and read them for your own edification! It’s right there folks. As I’ve heard the elders say, “It’s plain as day!” There’s no need to be down! We too can ask for good things from the Lord and be encouraged that He desires to give us the needed provisions for our lives. In our weary states we can hold fast to the knowledge that the good that God desires for us far out weighs all we can ask or think.

Come on and let’s get excited and rejoice that:

God desires to give us and future generations, the desires of our heart; His word confirms it!

God desires to bless us abundantly with providing for our needs; His word is clear!

God desires to impart His great knowledge and His Wisdom; He says so!

God desires that we follow and obey His command, we’ll be blessed: it’s real!

God desires that we persevere in faithfulness and be careful to walk in His ways as we possess wisdom & exceptional knowledge of His word!

Thank you Lord for reminding us today that whatever you want to give us, you certainly will, it’s available through prayer and your anointed Holy Spirit’s enlightenment.

So today wonderful Lord we can confidently tuck these words in our hearts as we pray in faith that you will answer with: “Whatever You Want Me to Give You!” Amen!

Joyfully submitted by Linda Mose Meadows
Author of: The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://www.blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Open Your Family

Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us. James 1:27 (NLT)

Our children deserve the best. Unfortunately, too often we associate the best with material accumulations rather than with the opportunity to mature in safe, loving, violence and substance free two parent home. Statistically, African American children are less likely than Asians, Hispanics, and Whites to grow up in the home of their biological parents.

Reality in today’s society is that our families are fragmented by myriad socioeconomic challenges arising from systemic racism. Additionally, there are crisis and dilemmas created by the irresponsibility of individuals. Both of these scenarios affect the children presently and in time to come.

The result of broken families is our communities destabilize and erode further with each generation. The community base is the family and when that base crumbles, the complex concerns reach into each segment of the community. Children without a two-parent family home are served best in a stable and loving environment where they can develop the confidence needed to gain social and academic competence.

Historically, African Americans have embraced and nurtured those in need of family support, especially children. Family was not always defined by bloodlines. Children were admonished, encouraged, hugged, and supported by block parents, church parents, neighborhood aunties, barbershop pops, et al. Today we seem to have decreased in our extended kinship care.
Today, our children languish in foster care at disproportionate rates. We do not adopt at the same rate as Asians, Hispanics, and Whites and our children are hard to place because they are not the most sought after children. When other races do adopt our children, there is a concern that the children will lose a connection with African American culture, history, and the community.

As an adoptive parent and a former foster parent, I can definitively state that there is not a need for one to be wealthy to adopt. In addition to adopting, my husband and I have biological children and opened our hearts and home to various family members over the past twenty-five years. The outcome has been beautiful memories, great experiences, and children who are now compassionate adults.

I highly recommend extending yourself and family to save our community. You may not be able to save the world…start with a child.

Filling In

And so, since God in his mercy has given us this wonderful ministry,
we never give up.2Cr 4:1

Before I realized it, I was picking myself up. I didn’t even have time to think,
“No this can’t be happening at work?”

As I was falling, I could see myself, it felt like I was witnessing a slow motion picture, but instead of the star role being acted out by someone else it was me. I had no control over what was occurring- it was a surreal moment at 2pm in the afternoon on the steps of Phenix Hall.

I really believed or no maybe I thought I had caught myself, but my dusty pant leg revealed another truth. My feet and upper body weren’t in sync- they didn’t cooperate as I held on to the banister just momentarily before my fall. I realized it was much too late. It wasn’t a terrible fall, but I knew it wasn’t a pretty sight. A student that stood at the bulletin board pretended not to see my fall. I knew she saw, and heard the thud. Silently I thanked her for letting me have a shred of dignity. But she could have at least said, “Are you ok?” It surprised me that she just turned her back as though I wasn’t there. The shock to my body didn’t initially feel bad, but as I write this devotional, replay the mental tapes and acknowledge that I knew I had fallen, I am feeling just a little achy.

Prior to the fall I answered the phone, listen to the requested instructions and there I was in pursuit (interpreting the spoken and unspoken requests)- carrying out the task of opening conference doors, greetings guests most cordially, opening window to let air circulate in the conference room, having small talk and awaiting the intended parties which were really suppose to be meeting. It was my mission to fill in- make the atmosphere more comfortable, smile pleasantly, answering the questions as best I could and respond intelligently –I at least hoped. Not as soul seemed to notice that my transparent halo was crooked, or that my clothes possibly were a little rumpled! So my mission was accomplished! None of the guests noticed as I reflected that just seconds before that conversation –I had literally and figuratively picked myself up off the stairwell, dusted my shocked body off and entered the department’s waiting area to greet our guests. Outwardly I was composed, inwardly I was shaken!

How often have you done the same thing friends? Fallen and had to quickly get moving! As I’ve heard it said, “Keep it moving!” or how about this one? “You don’t have time for sniveling, big girls/big boys don’t cry!”

I had fallen as I descended the stairs in a hurried pace. Many times in life as we are climbing so many ladders, negotiating many kinds of stairwells in our life we may get hurt along the way carrying hidden scars with the appearance of having it all together. I’d like to think that God desires that we view these stairs or ladders as personal challenges or trials we face in life. Some challenges we get through with ease and others that’s just not the case.

These challenges may be evident for others to witness as we go through, the operative word being through! Who dictates the time piece? Often it’s out of our control, or possibly it’s negligence or poor planning or maybe a mistake? Whatever it is, the duration may take us through days, months and possibly years. Some challenges are a cake walk others are no joke! These corporate ladders/stairwells, marriage ladders, parent ladders, spiritual ladders, religious ladders, depression ladders, drug ladders, the greed ladders, the sickness ladders, confusion ladders are often much too much! You fill in the blank and we miss a rung, miss the mark and fall. Hopefully not to our detriment! But be assured friends that God’s words in the 2nd Corinthians are a sure cure for our hurts:

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed and broken. We are perplexed, but we don't give up and quit. We are hunted down, but God never abandons us. We get knocked down, but we get up again and keep going. Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies. 2Cr 4:8-10(NIV)

Surely we’ve incurred set backs, a fall from grace, an awkward moment in life and you had no clue it was coming! You believed that your journey from here out was smooth sailing? So you thought your life was supposed to pan out in one way and then another route occurs-right before your eyes and there you are flat on your back looking up or possibly lying face down. In your spirit, break out in a warrior dance, praise Him, lift your hands and your hearts and know that you survived the fall and it didn’t kill you!

Thank God you survived! Thank God for the on lookers like the young student that saw me tumble and never uttered a word or a hand! Thank God that you too have enough spring in your spirit to look forward to the days ahead.

For our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever!
So we don't look at the troubles we can see right now; rather, we look forward to what we have not yet seen. For the troubles we see will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever.

2Cr 4:17, 18 (NIV)

Thank God I wasn’t left by the way side, crumbled! That’s for you and me-the Holy Spirit desires that we keep climbing, and not be shy about filling in!!! Now go on and enjoy the reminder of your day as you hum I’LL Make It by Hezekiah Walker!

Joyfully submitted by Linda Mose Meadows

Author of: The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises

http://www.blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

I am waiting on the Lord...

God you have the answers that I desire. I do not know if I can accept, handle or receive the knowledge I pursue. I trust at your appointed time I will receive an understanding.
So I move forward into the future that I cannot see. I carry on with life and trust that you will bless me abundantly and that I shall live in peace.
Wars abound, famine and drought afflict the earth, people's hearts have hardness not compassion, and believers suffer emotional, financial, health and spiritual challenges. Yet in the midst of it all I have hope because you are sovereign. I trust you though I cannot see how you are working things out. I believe in you though my mind says why.
You alone are Lord of Lords and King of Kings. My questions are not comparable to your knowledge. In your time I will understand and say thank you Lord.
Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments. Psalm 119:66

My Divine Purpose

Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

I am a Christian who believes that I have surrendered to God’s perfect will for my life. That perfect will included discussing my life in an open book to the world. In spite of my faith and the fact that I surrendered to God’s will, I am having a difficult time today. I feel like a victim. I am anxious, fearful, impatient, and sad.

Although I am living in purpose my flesh and mind are wrestling with my needs and desires. I believe with my whole heart that I am living a life of purpose. I know in my spirit that I must wait on God to show up and be glorified after my divine purpose is accomplished.

I am a black female and I experienced discrimination while employed by New York State Department of Corrections. From 1993 to 1996 I was the victim of a continued hostile work environment, discrimination, and retaliation at Albion Correctional Facility. In this blog entry I am going to share my diary entries that include some of my emotions and thoughts as I completed my assignment from God.

EXCERPTS FROM –“A Case of Racial Discrimination and Retaliation a Real or Imagined.”

“Shortly after I filed my case without an attorney in 1997, God told me “You will be victorious in this matter.” I believed God because with God nothing is impossible. It was with this firm belief and trust in God’s promise that I was able to press on and exhaust all avenues for judicial redress.

May 24, 2001
Judge Elfvin issued a twenty-four-page court order that dismissed my Title VII case. The court order did not even mention the fact that seven of the declarations filed by the New York State Attorney General’s Office contained perjured statements.

Although my case was dismissed by the district court I held on to God’s promise that I would be victorious in this matter. After I got over the initial disappointment I was forced to start working on my appeal to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals.

January 25, 2002
The United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit issued an order upholding the decision of the United States District Court for the Western District of New York. The Appeals Court agreed with Judge Elfvin’s order that dismissed my case. http://vlex.com/vid/18529506

I felt disappointed after I read the Appeals Court's decision. My faith was tested by the decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Yet I hung on to God’s promise that I would be victorious. I believed that God would be honored even more after I successfully argued and won my case before The United States Supreme Court.

I still didn't understand the fact that neither court order mentioned the perjured non-retaliatory explanations presented in the Defendant’s sworn declarations filed in the district court.

The only explanation for the unjust rulings of both courts that makes sense to me is found in Exodus 7:1-6 (NIV) of the Bible:

AND the LORD said unto Moses, See, I have made thee a god to Pharoah ; and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet.

Thou shalt speak all that I command thee; and Aaron thy brother shall speak unto Pharaoh, that he send the children of Israel out of his land.

And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and multiply my signs and my wonders in the land of Egypt.

But Pharaoh shall not heaken unto you, that I may lay my hand upon Egypt, and bring forth mine armies, and my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments.

And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I stretch forth mine hand upon Egypt, and bring out the children of Israel from among them.

And Moses and Aaron did as the LORD commanded them, so did they.

June 24, 2002
The nine Supreme Court Justices have wide discretion in deciding what cases to review. The Supreme Court Justices and law clerks of the Court review nearly 9,000 appeals that are filed each year and pick about 80 to decide.

I filed a Writ of Certiorari and nine Appendix (exhibits) with the United States Supreme Court. I was aware of the almost impossibility that my case would be reviewed but I worked countless hours preparing my Writ of Certiorari. As I typed the 40-paged Writ, I held on to God’s promise that I would be victorious in this matter.

November 4, 2002
Today The Supreme Court of the United States of America issued an order that upheld the Second Circuit Court of Appeals' decision not to reverse the district court's summary judgment order. I understood the reality that The Supreme Court of the United States of America reviews less than 100 of the approximately 9,000 cases filed with the Court each year. I didn’t understand the fact that my case wasn’t selected as one of the 80 cases for review.

After I received a copy of the “decision” I burst out in loud cries of anguish and disbelief. I cried out to God in pain and utter disappointment. How would I live when the very foundation of my faith received a near fatal blow? How could I go on with my life after experiencing such an unjust decision? How could I function in a world were lies prevail over the truth? I lapsed into something deeper than depression. I didn’t know what to think or what to do. I no longer had a job or the hope of being victories in my lawsuit. I felt like a complete failure.

Fall 2004
I read the “Purpose Driven Life” and received teaching on purpose at two different churches. After I read Rick Warren’s divinely inspired book it changed my life. I realized that I was victorious in my case because God’s purpose for my life was revealed to me.

My divine purpose is to shed light on employment discrimination in America. I believe that this light will reveal that Congress needs to investigate, address and/or amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Amending the Act again would prevent one judge from having the absolute power to grant summary judgment motions that dismiss discrimination and retaliation lawsuits.

February 18, 2006
I was born 52 years ago today. I have chosen this day to begin my journey fulfilling the divine purpose of my birth. I know that I was born black and poor on February 18, 1954, to write “A Case of Racial Discrimination and Retaliation Real or Imagined.”

November 12, 2006
Today I am currently writing on the retaliation I experienced at Albion. I am overwhelmed with anxiety as I continue to view extensive evidence of discrimination and the failure of anyone to help me. I am in tears as I type this.

This is the day that Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial was dedicated. Oprah gave a moving speech in honor of Dr. King that reminded me that I must complete this book.

No American citizen should suffer the mental and physical anguish I experienced from New York State Department of Corrections employees, New York State Attorney General’s Office and with the American Court System.

November 17, 2006
I am feeling more empowered and stronger. It has taken me 3 days (30 hours) to write about the January 7, 1996 incidents. I am using the five-paged memo titled Lost Or Stolen ID as a guide. I am so thankful that I wrote all of those documents and kept them. God knew that I would need them. I must hold on to the fact that with the vision from God comes the provisions. It is 2:19 am and I am ending my writing for today. I worked 10 hours today on the book. It was a good day.

February 3, 2007
“I have almost completed the chapter of this book titled “My Summary Judgment Motion - Retaliation.” This has been a difficult chapter for me to write. The emotional pain of reliving every aspect of this ordeal is almost unbearable. Vivid memories including the initial discrimination at Albion, the failure of supervisory staff to correct it, the retaliation that I experienced, New York State Division of Human Right’s no probable cause ruling, New York State Attorney General’s filing of perjured declarations/affidavits, and Judge Elfvin failure to appoint counsel to represent me during my lawsuit are crushing my spirit and my resolve to complete this book and to fulfill my divine purpose.

I have gained strength, confirmation, and encouragement from various religious broadcast and sermons. In my determination to fulfill the divine purpose of my life I typed and saved a document titled “Confirmation of Purpose from Religious Broadcast”. At 12:40 a.m. I pulled up the document and read part of sermon from Bishop T. D. Jakes.

Bishop T. D. Jakes on September 20, 2006
“Man has nothing to do with God’s promise. People don’t have to approve it. You must know that God blessed it he that has begun a good work in your life will fulfill it until the return of Christ.

Fear the controversy but do it any way. Man has nothing to do with God’s promise. Don’t abort your baby you may have pain, not have friendships. Pain is an indication that birth is getting close.”

I am crying now as I type this. I truly fear what may happen to me after my book is published. I fear for my life but I know that God’s perfect will for my life will be fulfilled.

Bishop Jakes continued, “This is the time that you have to bare down, when opposition is getting strongest, you have to bear down. Great things are often born out of the system.” He cited the example of Mary and the birth of Christ. "The system will lock you out don’t wait for the system to make room. God birth a King in a barn. You must trust God promise to you.

Many people have given up on God’s promise because man has said there is no room for them. The greatness of the concept may not be ideal circumstance but it is still the promise. Redefine willing you have to be willing to be in an uncomfortable situation to get what God has promised you”

After reading Bishop Jake’s sermon I accepted his challenge and his confirmation of God’s promise to me. I will complete this chapter and this book because it is an assignment from God. I love you Lord and I surrender to your perfect will.”

CONCLUSION

The horrible experience of my Title VII case still causes me to shed tears. Only God knows how many other whole human beings have suffered, cried, and prayed to be treated according to the rules, according to the law, and according to the United States Constitution.

Thank you Holy Spirit for this revelation and the fact that I feel better now. I feel better because I realize that I suffered and am still suffering so that other people will not have to endure or experience my ordeal of discrimination and retaliation.

Vera Richardson is the author of “A Case of Racial Discrimination and Retaliation Real or Imagined." http://www.booksite.com/texis/scripts/oop/click_ord/listbooks.html?sid=1624&type=a&qkey=Richardson,+Vera

Being Grateful for Here and Now


May the Lord of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Oh this is wonderful! That I am sure of is what was resonating in my spirit. Instead of continuing to work beyond 5pm, waiting for my husband to arrive so we could journey home, I had the bright idea to shut the computer down, close the folders and leave like others with common sense and prepare to end the work day. So there I sat on the bench, with book in hand, tote and lunch bag by my side and I began to breathe in and out. This was truly calming. I recognized the divine-the divine moment of the here and now.

God was truly in the atmosphere and I recognized immediately that He also dwelled in me, my very breath!

The trees swayed, the warm breeze was refreshing and the beautiful blue water that cascades and moves around the fringes of Hampton’s campus is truly a site to behold. So it just felt good to be outdoors and present in this moment.

I then opened and resumed my reading of BeBe Moore Campbell novel: Singing in the Comeback Choir. And reality of her singing career[is shared with] Maxine:

“When I was in my prime, I was so proud of my voice, but I didn’t really appreciate it. I’d hit a note that could crack glass and wonder how I got there. I’d be holding that note long enough to pass out and searching in the crowd to see if anybody important was listening. And I’d be all the way back down before I remembered that I hadn’t even enjoyed it: not getting there, not the being there, not even the coming back. I was so busy trying to get somewhere.” Pg 318

Did that ever hit me like a ton of bricks friend.

I read the passage at least three times. Glanced up and appreciated that there was a young man skateboarding, zooming past me. He moved effortlessly it appeared with ease and sheer enjoyment. Apparently he had mastered this skateboard. As I marveled at this student I really appreciated what God was expressing to me in real time! And really began to appreciate how triumphant we can live if we pay attention and value our life’s moments. Admittedly we can miss out on the important personal and developmental milestones-living! Wouldn’t you agree that the Holy Ghost is amazing?

Friends God has spoken through BeBe Moore Campbell’s character Lindy. Lindy’s drive to reach stardom, get from there to here, her drive to have a stellar singing career and grab the brass ring, was admirable but she understands that she missed the mark, missed the opportunity to celebrate all of life’s offerings and be content in the moment!

Well, indeed the revelation that Lindy had as she expressed herself was a healing moment for me. I too have hurried through life, desiring immediate changes and like Lindy have missed so many opportunities to spiritually tune in and rejoice along the way instead my focus was fixed on anticipating the next life’s issue, the next and the next!

It was cathartic- I read on and there it was-Lindy placed her hands to her mouth and kissed them. I then knew she who battered by racism, alcoholism, guilt and anger was finally appreciative, thankful in her soul for her life and her songs. This surely was a moment of personal worship-not about her accomplishments but of God’s tender grace and mercies.

Be joyful, always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18

My spirit uttered, Lord I thank you! And my grocery list of thanks began to roll out of my mind! Lord I thank you for the finally being fifty and free. Free to look back and not wonder, I now know it was you who kept me! I won’t be embarrassed about my setbacks. I can stop sweating the small stuff and remember to appreciate all the simple abundance you’ve provided for me! I thank you because I know it’s a miracle to just be able to open my eyes and see! See all you want me to see, to feel all that I feel and to love all that I love. God I will never worry so much about reaching the plateau without being thankful for being able to scale the summit!
What is your spirit uttering? What of God’s grace in your life?

Today let’s get our spiritual skateboards out and move like that young man on campus, being assured, confident, healed, joyful, grateful and confident that God is the wind beneath our wings! And for those of us a little frail from the journey, fear not-be sure to breathe deeply and you enjoy the view!

“So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13

But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
let them sing joyful praises forever.
Protect them,
so all who love your name may be filled with joy.
For you bless the godly, O Lord,
surrounding them with your shield of love.
Psalm 5:11-12

Joyfully submitted by Linda Mose Meadows Author of:
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://www.blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Women United

Women United

As women, we often experience problems that are similar to those of men. However, these problems are complex and often compounded by the fact that we are women. There is no way to independently resolve these problems; we must unite to collectively present our case.

We must remove the barriers of race and socioeconomic status so that we come to the table as equals. I must want the best for you as you want the best for me; otherwise, we will resort to self-serving motivations.

United we can remove barriers of tradition, finances, government, education, and religiosity. In isolation we suffer anger, loneliness, and become easy prey for the enemy. Our strength and success is in our commitment to live honoring God by helping one another.

Numbers 27:1 One day a petition was presented by the daughters of Zelophehad-Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. Their father, Zelophehad, was the son of Hepher, son of Gilead, son of Makir, son of Manasseh, son of Joseph. 2 These women went and stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the tribal leaders, and the entire community at the entrance of the Tabernacle.* 3 "Our father died in the wilderness without leaving any sons," they said. "But he was not among Korah's followers, who rebelled against the Lord. He died because of his own sin. 4 Why should the name of our father disappear just because he had no sons? Give us property along with the rest of our relatives." 5 So Moses brought their case before the Lord. 6 And the Lord replied to Moses, 7 "The daughters of Zelophehad are right. You must give them an inheritance of land along with their father's relatives. Assign them the property that would have been given to their father.

Notice the consistent collective action of the women. These five sisters never speak or act independently. The women are not all the same, sisters differ and disagree. However, the sisters are decidedly determined to resolve the problem together.

Do not accept the myth that women cannot get along. We can relate to one another and resolve to work together when we meet as equals and interact with integrity. There can be no hidden agendas or private coalitions in the midst of our unity.

Consider how great of a challenge these women faced in their clan, community, and from contesting their issue to the very leaders established by God. Note the women are not disrespectful to others nor or they divided in purpose. They present their case united.

Christian women today do well to model this approach in resolving the issues in our lives. If we want to live the abundant life, we must get over our pettiness and preferences so that we can speak with purpose and pursue the promise.

We cannot choose which sisters we agree with, divide into cliques, and think God will bless our silliness. We come from different education levels, political beliefs, family experiences, and spiritual maturity levels; however, we are sisters. Our Father in heaven will set our divine destiny and spiritual inheritance in order when we get together and work together.

A New Creature

Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ... (2 Cor. 5:17)

To me, this is one of the bible's most significant scriptures for the body of Christ. This scripture reveals what actually happened to us in the new birth and is a key to our Christian walk and development.

When I first recognized the meaning of this scripture, I had been a Christian for about 10 years. And for all of those ten years, I had spent every waking, (and probably sleeping) hour trying to be the best Christian that I could be. It was my utmost intention to be as Christ-like as I could possibly be, and to put to death the "old" sinful me.

It may sound funny, but when I caught the meaning of this scripture, my first thought was this, "Man, I've been trying to kill someone who is already dead." "And I have been trying to change someone who is already changed." Now, how futile can that be?

But what baffled me for a while was that if this scripture were true, then why did I find myself still sinful. Well, I think that the best way to answer that is to explain that the change this scripture is talking about is an inner change, and a spiritual one. So, in order to experience the reality of the change, the aim will have to be to get what is on the inside, (and what is spiritual) to the outside and what is in the natural.

Let's first take a look at what this change is and what God has made us when we accepted his Son. Then we will talk a little about making it practical and active in our lives.

First of all, the bible says that this new creature within us is a new man, (or woman) and started from a seed, just like every natural child starts as a seed in the womb of their mother. Peter said this about being born again and becoming a new creature,

"Being born again, not by corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever." (1 Pet. 1:23)

This scripture brings a lot of insight into what happened to us when we were "born again," but I think the most important point is that we were born of the seed of God. And the seed of God, being incorruptible, is why we can live forever and also why we are Christ-like already. (See also Jn. 1:12-13)

Remember, our opening scripture said that, "...old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God..." There are no shortcomings or imperfections or inconsistencies in God, and because we are born of God and of his seed, there are no shortcomings or imperfections or inconsistencies in the new man within us.

I know that when we look at ourselves we may find that hard to believe. We may not see or feel that kind of remarkable change in our lives, but if you follow along with me, I will explain why we may not and how we can.

God's power is not released without our faith. For example, without our personal faith in Jesus, the new birth would not have taken place. And the same principle will continue in our Christian development as well. Without our personal faith; God's power and life, (though it is already resident within us), will not be released to affect our outer man... And here is how we can do that.

We are called as Christians to live by faith, not by sight, to walk according to the spirit, not according to the flesh. We are to believe of ourselves as the new inner man that Jesus made us to be, NOT as we see ourselves in the natural. (2 Cor. 5:7, Rom. 8:1-9) Paul the apostle said of himself,

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." (Gal. 2:20)

Paul believed that his "old man," the sinful man that he once was, was crucified and died with Christ and that his "new man" rose with Jesus and now partakes in Christ's life and is made to be just like him. And Paul did this by faith. And it was Paul's faith that would enable him to live such a supernaturally powerful and productive life.

"For as he thinketh in his heart, (about him or herself) so is he." (Pr. 23:7 parenthesis mine)

Paul did not "try" to be Christ-like, for as we will see; that is futile. Instead, Paul believed that he was Christ-like "already" by virtue of the new birth. He chose to live by faith and not by sight, according to what God said about him, not what he saw in himself. And it is this same kind of faith that will transform you and I on the outside into what we already are on the inside. It is a process, and will take time, but it will work. (Rom. 12:1-2)

Our fight is a fight of faith, not of works; of believing not doing. If we try in our own strength to "do" we will fail. Paul said,

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do." (Rom. 7:18-19)

Paul wanted to do well, but because of sin in his flesh found no power to perform it.

The bible says that, "The strength of sin is the law," (1 Cor. 15:56) so the more demands we put on ourselves, the more we stengthen our problems. The harder we "try" to be like Christ, to modify our lives to be more like his, the harder it will be to be like him.

Trying harder is like making New Year's resolutions. It just doesn't work. Even the strongest of people have to continually work at resolutions to keep them. And once they stop working at them, the resolution stops. Consider also reformed alcoholics. Even the most successful have to struggle every day to stay free. They even claim to still be alcoholics even if they are controlling the problem. But God wants us totally free, and really transformed, so that our struggle ends and wholesome behavior becomes natural. And it is faith in God's word that will being real transformation, just like it brought real change when we believed in Jesus. And the more we develop our faith in our new man and in what God's word says about us, the more we will change on the outside.

Trying to be the best Christians we can be won't work, but believing that we are already the best Christians we need to be will work.

Our development as Christians is just like our salvation and the new birth, where faith alone will bring a transformation that we cannot bring ourselves. It is a new way of living and thinking, but faith in God's word is the way God gave humanity to tap into his life and supernatural power, (and into the new creature within us). (Eph. 2:8-9)

Submitted by John B. Agati
Author of "Suffering (God's Will?)"

More information about this and an upcoming book, "Suffering, Unanswered Prayer, (And How to Fix the Whole Thing)," along with a short bio may be found at: http://www.jbagati.com/

Juanita Bynum Marriage Back in the News Again

Juanita Bynum is back in the news again. Her publicist, Amy Malone, recently issued a public statement denying that she is in counseling with her estranged husband, Bishop Thomas Weeks. The statement was released through Essence Magazine, with whom Bynum appears to have formed a relationship after appearing on the cover earlier this year.

"Juanita Bynum would like to make it very clear that she is not in counseling with Bishop Thomas Weeks III, nor are there any talks of reconciliation as stated in the false article written by Doug Campbell," Malone said in the statement.

"As Dr Bynum has stated in the past, she feels that reconciliation with her estranged husband could be a tremendous testimony to the body of Christ; however that is not the case at this time."

In the release, Juanita Bynum's publicist also stated that she has cut ties with the Weeks family and that she was invited by one of members of Bishop Week's family to speak at a conference in Barbados. Bynum's publicist described her as "an anointed woman of God, and called to be a voice to the nation."

Juanita Bynum's marriage has been the source of public curiosity as of late, as she has been accused of marketing her allegedly abusive marriage for personal gain. Shortly after her husband, Bishop Thomas Weeks was accused of choking and stomping her, Bynum described herself as the "face of domestic violence". This led to an outcry by the Black American public and the Black Gospel community, many of whom felt that she was not sincere in her disposition.


Watch the video below as Juanita Bynum gets into a heated argument with Sheryl Underwood on BET:

Black Church or Mammy

The Black Church
in 21st Century America

Haggai 1:2 "This is what the Lord Almighty says: The people are saying, `The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord's house-the Temple.' " 3 So the Lord sent this message through the prophet Haggai: 4 "Why are you living in luxurious houses while my house lies in ruins? 5 This is what the Lord Almighty says: Consider how things are going for you! 6 You have planted much but harvested little. You have food to eat, but not enough to fill you up. You have wine to drink, but not enough to satisfy your thirst. You have clothing to wear, but not enough to keep you warm. Your wages disappear as though you were putting them in pockets filled with holes!
7 "This is what the Lord Almighty says: Consider how things are going for you! 8 Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the Lord. 9 You hoped for rich harvests, but they were poor. And when you brought your harvest home, I blew it away. Why? Because my house lies in ruins, says the Lord Almighty, while you are all busy building your own fine houses. 10 That is why the heavens have withheld the dew and the earth has withheld its crops. 11 I have called for a drought on your fields and hills-a drought to wither the grain and grapes and olives and all your other crops, a drought to starve both you and your cattle and to ruin everything you have worked so hard to get." (NLT)

As an ordained minister and Black woman, it troubles me to observe the causal disregard and indifference that all people have for the House of God. However, I am particularly weighted down with aggravation, frustration, and irritation with how the Black community has allowed the one institution that has seen us through the Middle Passage to present day to fall into fiscal, physical, and spiritual decay and disrepair.

Sadly, too many people are not cognizant of the Christian faith of some Africans prior to the Maafa or Middle Passage and simply accept the mythology that Black Christians adopted the religion of the slave owners and slave masters. This is the effect of being disconnected from world history and miseducated so as to perceive the only means of significance and success is to aspire to fit into the fictionalized accounts of American history that have for too long been formed around the need for white males to retain power and resources.

An analysis of Christianity will lead one to the logical conclusion that there were some Africans worshipping Jesus Christ. In what continent is Egypt located? Africa! When Joseph and Mary took Jesus into seclusion for safety, Jesus was taken to Egypt. In the New Testament Phillip witnessed to and baptized the Ethiopian eunuch. While there were indigenous African religions and there were Africans engaged in Islam there were also Christian Africans.
The Black Church as provided support for the Black community in myriad ways since its formation and yet the very beneficiaries of the sacrifices and services of the Black Church have left the church wanting and needing. Indeed, if the church is the Bride of Christ, we have treated the Black Church as ‘Mammy’.


We have refused to respect her and recognize her value. Her contributions have gone unappreciated. We have neglected her as we have climbed the ladder of prosperity laden with material acquisitions, designer labels, luxury automobiles, and fine dining. We have failed to continue giving at the same pace that out foreparents did during Reconstruction and the Great Depression despite the support of the Black Church to educate us, stand as refuge and arming stations during Civil Rights and Black Power movements. She prayed and toiled with us to gain equality in education and jobs and we neglect to give of our time, talent, and treasure. Oh, we extol her magnificent smile, and ceaseless rejoicing in song and uplifting sermon…yet, we do not return to her.

We run to her when the idols we created crash around us. We seek her protection when we have been exposed for behavior that may land us in monetary trouble or the prison cell. Often we acknowledge it was the Black Church that gave us the first opportunity to develop singing or oratory skills, taught us the power of unity and forgiveness, perhaps provided refuge and necessities during our season of poverty, or book scholarships that helped us through college. However, rarely do we return to serve her, lead her, and care for her that she might remain steadfastly available to another generation.

I am not equating the Black Church with God, He alone is our Priest, Provider, and Protector. However, we must have respect unto the vessel He chose to bring us through, to bring us over, and to help us up. We cannot and must not forget the Black Church and the ministries God used to reach us. Perhaps, if we return to the place we first believed we will recall how to apply the precepts and principles of God to our daily living. We will recognize that those same Godly lessons that edified, enabled, and empowered, our ancestors can help us today as we face oppressive issues with our economy, a society that prefers to incarcerate our youth than educate, children who live without healthcare, and too many of us who been lulled into apathy about our own situations. Perhaps if we return to God and meet one another once again to worship, fellowship, study, pray, and serve we will stop throwing pity parties and begin to work towards improving our community and the global community. Of course, that requires each of us doing our part.

No more hollow hucksters in the pulpit perpetrating as leaders, when their priority is living off of our misery. No more politicians coming by to visit ‘Mammy’ just to get votes. We will have to learn to live within our means so that we can meaningful sow finances into the ministries of the Black Church. I am a believer…I believe in God and I believe every word of God…
Therefore, say to the people, `This is what the Lord Almighty says: Return to me, and I will return to you, says the Lord Almighty.' Zechariah 1:3 (NLT)

Power and peace are in Jesus!

Pastor Kelly Oglesby –

PastorKOglesby@aol.com

Weeks and Bynum May Get Together....Or Not

There is speculation and mixed reports that Juanita Bynum is thinking about getting back together with her estranged husband, Bishop Thomas Weeks. MediaTakeOut.com has reported that Bynum and Weeks have begun the process of undergoing spiritual counseling in order to reconcile their broken marriage.

The reports allegedly came from someone close to Bynum and Weeks. The anonymous source has stated that the two are undergoing spiritual counseling to fix their marriage. According to the anonymous source, "They both need spiritual healing from the Lord, but they're committed to rebuilding their marriage ... Please give them some privacy."

However, the report was quickly denied by someone even closer to Thomas Weeks, publicist Angelo Ellerbee. Ellerbee had this to say to EURWeb:

"Please allow this communication to serve as an official notice to your web page that what was posted today regarding my client, Bishop Weeks III and his estranged wife, prophetess Juanita Bynum is totally false, incorrect and untrue on the behalf of Bishop Weeks. However, Ms. Bynum chooses to position herself is up to her and her publicity firm. There has been no spiritual engagements between my client, Bishop Weeks and his estranged wife. I hope that you will be very kind in displaying this information on your site as soon as possible. I find it quite misleading and full of publicity tricks."

A similar statement was released by Amy Malone, publicist for Juanita Bynum:

"Juanita Bynum would like to make it very clear that she is not in counseling with Bishop Thomas Weeks III, nor are there any talks of reconciliation as stated in the false article written by Doug Campbell. Juanita Bynum Ministries received a request from Bishop Weeks' uncle, Bishop Leo Smith, to speak at his conference in Barbados this June. She also received an invitation from his grandfather and aunt, Bishop Thomas J. Weeks and Dr. Gwendolyn Weeks to speak at their two-day prayer revival in Boston ... she accepted both invitations. Her acceptances of the invitations are in no way a step towards reconciliation."

Some have argued that Weeks and Bynum have been using their relationship as a publicity stunt, sending out press releases and "positioning themselves" in the public eye.

"Perhaps if this relationship were more about God and love than publicity, it might have had a chance to last," says relationship therapist Mathew Couch.