Tag: trials

Forget-Me-Not

Deuteronomy 29:1-6

After experiencing the many wonderful blessings of the Lord in our lives, how do we so easily fall back into sin and the errors of our past? With each trial and struggle the Father brings us through, our faith should be strengthened, and trust in God’s sovereignty amplified to greater levels, but how do we give in to temptation, after witnessing miracles, healings, and wonders in our very own lives? If you took a brief moment to think of all the things God has provided for you, or kept you from, you’d go from counting on your fingers and toes, to writing them down on paper.

Contrary to how the world portrays God to be, He is indeed in favor of righteous indignation, but desires to bless those who willfully obey His commandments. Unfortunately, humans have a tendency to enjoy blessings for a moment, then revert back to their former way of thinking. This harmful cycle of living was prevalent amongst the children of Israel in Scripture. During times of good and plenty, they somehow allowed themselves to get caught up in idol worship and riotous living. The Israelites were reminded of the time when God delivered them from Pharoah’s oppression in Egypt, in addition to how for 40 years, their clothes and shoes never wore out, nor did they have to work for food. God took care of His chosen people, yet they still found time to murmur and complain. How much was enough? I mean, how much did God have to do, to keep their attention on serving Him?

The people of ancient times may not have had the technology or distractions we have today, but it’s evident their eras were littered with ungodly things to block them from serving God. But, despite the inevitable traps and snares set before them, God provided ways for His people to prosper, and do well in the earth. As in the past, God daily loads the people of today with benefits, the likes of which cannot be replicated by human strength or intellect. Who in the earth has ever created anything God didn’t bring into existence? God gives us the breath of life, and a sound mind to fulfill our daily duties. While we may not all become rich, wealthy, and famous, God gives every man what he needs to fulfill their assignment in the earth.

Appreciate the blessings of God, whether you consider them great or small, and don’t allow yourself to easily forget how wonderful He is to you every day. Keep your heart, mind, and eyes fixed on the Lord, so that when temptation comes to pull you away, you’ll keep a firm stance on holy and righteous living.

The Only Wise God

Isaiah 57:14-21

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isa 55:8-9 KJV). The more I try to understand the intricacies and details of God the Father, the more my head hurts. I often quote Dr. Kent Hovind when he says,”if my little three pound brain could understand the Creator of all things, then He would not be worth worshiping”. Simply reading descriptions of the nature of the Creator and His dwelling place, makes me so excited to soon inhabit eternity with Him! The Lord our God is many wonderful things, including eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, in all places at all times, humble, just, righteous, consistent in love and judgment, and more! God inhabits eternity, and dwells in the high and holy place (with Christ), and His plan is to revive the spirit of those who walk in humility, and restore the hearts of those who’s were broken.

With the state in which the world is today, many, including Christians, have given up hope that God truly cares for those who suffer. But, know this; God never gives up on those He loves, those who walk in His ways, and keep His commandments. Even when we fall short, while trying to walk in the Spirit, God will pardon our iniquities, and restore us to a right place in Him. God sees our suffering and is fully aware that we need Him, but only in His perfect timing, will He step in to deliver His people.

We may not understand all that’s going on today, but focus your attention on being consistent in obeying God, because He made us, and He knows all about what we’re experiencing. In due time, the one whose name is Holy, will show Himself mighty in the lives of His children.

Can You Hear Me Now?

Matthew 17:1-8

Hearing the voice of God has been misunderstood for ages, and many have taken advantage of others, by claiming to hear from God, while taking money in exchange for a “word from the Lord”. Throughout the Old Testament, God spoke to men in various ways; from a burning fiery bush, to even using a donkey to get a man’s attention. In the New Testament, God spoke though His Son, Jesus, and gave Him all the instructions required, to guide men back into the fold. Today, the Holy Ghost is in the hearts of those who have received God’s gift of salvation, to offer strength, comfort, and bring back to remembrance, the teachings of Christ.

God would never leave His people to traverse these perverse lands alone, so He made sure to give us His Spirit to keep us on the right track. Men who claim to hear from God on the behalf of others, typically have motives to manipulate them for selfish reasons. God doesn’t speak to men as He did in the past, so for those who yearn to know God’s plans for them, read His Word. Also, for those who want to hear the voice of God audibly, read the Word out loud lol (credit to Justin Peters).

The Bible entails all the instructions and tools the church needs to keep themselves occupied, until Christ returns, so I admonish all to be mindful of those who claim God gave them a Word for you, because everything God wanted you to know, is written in His Word. While God can bring people to your heart and mind, He will hardly ever tell someone what you need, without first revealing it to you.

Be strong, be vigilant, because the enemy is still trying to take us out before this year ends. We’ve had ups, and downs, but by the grace and mercy of God, we are still here. Continue to guard yourselves against the evil one, and keep your faith in the Lord. Study and meditate on the Word of God daily, so that you can prove to Him, your love and dedication to His will is solid.

Bold And Brave

Isaiah 50:4-11

Earlier this morning, I received a call from one of my favorite cousins, who was weary and distraught, concerning the way evil men appear to be living far better than those who strive to live right, and how they seem to be escaping the judgment they deserve, for their consistent disobedient behavior. Hearing her express those thoughts touched my heart, because her words actually seem truthful. Wicked men and women do seem to have certain advantages in this life, than those who actually deserve better, but I tried hard to help her understand, this present world is temporary, and all those who remain in sin, will surely receive the judgment of God, in due time.

It’s expected for all members of the body of Christ to suffer while doing the works of the Lord, because our Savior, Christ Jesus, set the example we would need to follow, after He ascended back to His Father. The prophet Isaiah was inspired to write how the Son of God would indeed suffer greatly, on behalf of the people of God. Not only did Jesus suffer, but He did it willingly. Can you imagine willingly presenting yourself to men who seek only to see you fall, and do great harm to your physical body? The average person (not fully delivered lol) would be quick to defend themselves against any and all who step to them the wrong way. But, Christians are taught that suffering for Christ’s sake is counted as joy, according to the Bible.

Carnal minded men are unable to see the value in suffering in the name of God, but all will be revealed in that great day. While it does seem that good people only see suffering, and evil ones enjoy good, the real rewards of each person’s labor will be given by God, on the day of judgment.

To all those who may get weary while doing well, strive to keep moving forward, and don’t give up. Yes, this world doesn’t favor those who love God, and sin has caused men to act in ways that are unseemly toward the church, God can still bless us, even during these disheartening times.

Be careful not to judge those who hate and persecute you, but pray for them, and show them that God’s love is way more powerful than their hate. If Jesus didn’t turn His back on God during the most mind-blowing suffering in the history of history, then never allow your struggles and hard times to cause you to turn yours either.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

ATTEN-TION!

Luke 6:20-26

Fret not, because of those who appear to be living life a little (or a lot) better than you. Worry not, about men who seemingly have the upper hand concerning matters of finances and other resources. Mind not those things which the world considers as “fancy”, or “flashy”. Don’t lose heart, when your life is full of sadness and pain, while those around you are filled with laughter. Stand strong, even when men hate you, and literally defame your good name. Walk with your head held high, in the midst of snakes, fakes, and ravenous wolves. Be strong, and very courageous, while facing trials and temptations. Get excited, in those moments when you get rejected from the crowd, and appear to be left all alone. While the world makes attempts to keep you in the fog negativity, God will give you strength to endure all of their ploys and distractions. Not only will God keep you in perfect peace during hard times, but He will reward you greatly in Heaven.

Those who seem to be living the “good life” here on the earth, and willfully reject God, will only enjoy good until their death. After this life, comes the judgment, and every man and woman who rejected God, will mourn and weep throughout all eternity, as they spend their next life in that horrible, bottomless pit.

Saints, be encouraged, and continue fighting the good fight. The battle belongs to God, and He’s already won the victory! Soon, and very soon, all our troubles, worries, and struggles will be over, but until then… fight well!

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Good Times!

🎶 Good Times. 
Any time you meet a payment. 
Good Times. 
Any time you need a friend. 
Good Times. 
Any time you’re out from under. 
Not getting hassled, not getting hustled. 
Keepin’ your head above water, 
Making a wave when you can. 
Temporary lay offs. 
Good Times. 
Easy credit rip offs. 
Good Times. 
Scratchin’ and survivin’. 
Good Times. 
Hangin’ in and jivin’
Good Times. 
Ain’t we lucky we got ’em 
Good Times. 🎶

Life can come at you hard sometimes, but you should never allow your temporary struggles to hinder your eternal purpose. Take more time focusing on the good things in life, rather than the bad.

Walk in love,

Ell

The Lord honors patience

Lamentations 3:25-33

“They that wait upon the Lord…” After reading those few words, I’m almost certain the average Bible scholar can finish the rest of that verse without needing the actual text. Waiting on God to move on our behalf isn’t always an easy thing to do. The Bible tells us to love God, keep His commandments, pray always, ask, seek, and knock, then blessings will come, but what are we to do when it seems as though God misplaced our prayer requests? I, along with the average earthling, dread waiting. I strongly dislike waiting in line at the grocery store, pumping gas in the car, sitting in bumper-to-bumper rush hour traffic, waiting at restaurants for my food to arrive, and waiting for pimples to leave my face. I simply don’t like waiting, but don’t judge me, because I’m sure everyone has their little dark secrets. It takes a certain level of faith and trust in God, to wait for His plan to fully develop in our lives. God knows all, and sees all that we go through, so it’s obvious He’s well aware of our situations, no matter how rough or challenging they may be. The key to waiting on God is, staying focused and continuing in good works while we wait. The problem many Christians face is, while they wait for God to bless them, they sit idle, in hopes that their answer will fall from the sky. On the contrary, we are to continue walking in love, and performing acts of kindness daily, no matter what state our lives are in. God oftentimes delays His response to our prayers in order to prove what’s in our hearts, to allow time for wicked people to remove themselves from our lives, or so that just when the devil thinks we’re through, He can come through with amazing results. God is good, and His mercy endures forever, so while you’re waiting for an answer to your requests, keep doing good, while giving glory and honor to His name.

Walk in love,

Ell

The God of Jacob brings victory

Psalm 20

In seasons of trials and hard times, where you put your trust is vital in assuring deliverance from all your troubles. When you’re suffering from stress or a broken heart, can that shiny vehicle in your garage bring comfort to your situation. Or if, by chance, you are the victim of persecution, will your bank account be useful in turning your haters away? Money can do little to give you the advantage over your enemies in spiritual battles. Cars, houses, boats, and other possessions are equally unequipped with what it takes to overcome evil. But the writer of this Psalm placed all his trust in the Lord, God almighty, not in things of the world to guide him through all he faced.

Only in God, can we stand against all the tricks and wicked schemes of the devil. God is so powerful, that even His name demands respect of demons. Have you ever experienced a time when your name was mentioned, and people changed their tune? It’s kinda like when siblings are fighting, and one mentions that they’re gonna tell momma on the other one. Usually the kids straighten up rather quickly. Or when guys hang out late night on street corners act extra cool every time a cop car rolls through slowly. The name of the Lord represents the unmatched strength and power He possesses. The mere fact that everything was created by Him, earns all my respect by default. Unfortunately, the enemy still tries to hinder the people of God from growing in relationship with the Father, while being fully aware that we are under His divine protection. The nerve of satan, to knowingly attack us when God will ALWAYS come to our defense and put him under our feet. The problem with some people, is they run first to means other than God, when trouble visits their lives. Some rely on money, their name, or associations to help them overcome their trial. But the world wars not against itself. Instead, it fights against those who love God, and are committed to holy living.

Your faith will grow, the more you allow God to lead your life. His way provides the best methods on how to successfully, and safely subdue every enemy that tries to stunt your faith walk. David had strong faith in God, because of the countless experiences God guided him through. The same God of David, awaits to do the same for you. Make it a healthy habit of thinking of God first, in every situation you face. Whether you catch a cold, or an unexpected bill comes in the mail, always remember there’s nothing to big, or small for God to step in, and walk you through it.

Seek peace,

Ell

God provides the water

Isaiah 41:17-20

“I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34:1-4). What brought king David to the point where he bragged and boasted in the Lord, and not in himself? Throughout his life, David had a great many humbling experiences. From proving victorious against enemies despite uneven odds, to being forgiven from committing acts of sin, God delivered David from all the things he feared, while suppling all his needs without hesitation. Although David made mistakes, his heart was pure. God could have easily refused to assist David the moment he messed up, but David knew that God couldn’t ignore a repentant soul.

God blessed David so that he, and the world would see that all good and prefect gifts come from above. God is the source of all blessings, and He is deserving of our praise every day. He provides for His children even in times when they suffer and lack essential needs. God promised the men of Israel, in this text, that in those times when they are experiencing seasons of lack, He will hear their prayers and will not leave them wanting. Believers go through trials, not because God enjoys watching us suffer, but the trying of our faith worketh patience. We gain spiritual strength and grow in our dependence upon God through natural suffering. But God always pours out blessings for us, in the end.

God promised to bless His people that they might know that He’s the One who provides, protects, and supplies the riches of life here, and hereafter. Also, that they consider their ways and be grateful for His divine protective care. The final reason God blesses, according to the text, is so that His people might understand, as a whole, that God has planned and created all things for the highest good of all. John writes in Revelation 4:11, “Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.” God blesses us, because He loves us, and desires that we love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind. God’s love for us is unconditional, so it’s only right that we love Him with all our inward affections, all consciousness, and with all our thoughts.

Be encouraged to know that God sees your suffering, and hears your cries for help, but don’t give up in your suffering. Instead, give God thanks while you’re going through. God knows, and you know, that your situations won’t always be good, so instead of complaining, tell the world all that God has already delivered you from, and get ready to add your next deliverance to the list.

Seek peace,

Ell