Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Are You Ready To Be Blessed?

Hello Everyone,

 A thought hit me on yesterday and I wanted to share it with you. 

Yesterday, I was picking up around my room.  The usual things, hanging up laundry, putting away shoes and picking up my clutter hotspots.  That afternoon, in a conversation with my Mother, she asked me if I needed to give away any clothes.  First, I said no and then it hit me.  Mom has ALWAYS said to clean out your closet before going shopping.  Make room for the new clothes. 

 
 
So later in the day God put something on my heart.  How can He bless us when we will not let go of things that are just taking up space in our hearts? Past relationships, disappointments, past hurts, unforgiveness and other things that we hold onto, keeps God from blessing us in new ways.  We have to let these things go to make room for what God has in store for us.  How can we be ready to receive our blessings if we have issues taking up the space?
 
It is time to clean out our closets, physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally.  Once we do and truly let go, not going to the trash can taking things back, then God will be able to pour down blessings upon us.  POUR DOWN THE BLESSINGS LORD!
 
ARE YOU READY TO BE BLESSED?!?!
 
 
Much Love,
 
Jamison

Thursday, March 7, 2013

The Lord is Close

Hello Everyone,

I am so sorry the I allowed February to go by without one post.  So I am wanting to start March off on the right foot.

For the month of March the memory verse comes from the book of Psalms.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." 
Psalm 34:18 NIV

So many people are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit.  Maybe you feel like that right now.  But what is so amazing about this verse, written thousands of years ago by the psalmist David, are the first four (4) words, "The Lord is close...".

My dear friend the Lord is close.  He has not left you alone.  He has not forgotten that you are there.  He knew everything that would happen to you before you were even born.  He knows what is going to happen to you tomorrow, next week, next year and 20 years from now.  Our Heavenly Father is close to us.  Nothing is a surprise to Him.

You may fill weak right now but He will be your strength.  You maybe be crying right now but He is bottling up your tears.  You maybe be feeling completely alone right now but He already said in His Word that He is close to you.

I know how it feels to get news your were not expecting.  It feels like the breath was just knocked out of you.  Your heart begins to race and your stomach begins to churn and your eyes begin to feel the burn of tears welling up in your eyes.  Dear Ones, the Lord is close.  He is close.  He Is Close.  HE IS CLOSE!!!

Father,  I come to You now thanking You for being close to the brokenhearted and those crushed in spirit.  Thank You Father for being our strength and for bottling our tears.  Thank You for giving us love when we feel all love is gone.  Thank You for giving us courage to face another day.  Thank you for peace and calm in the middle of our life storms.  Most of all thank You for Jesus, who died and rose again for us all.  In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth I pray.  Amen.

PS. Thank you Chaquita!

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Holiday Greetings!

Greetings Everyone! It has been a wonderful and exciting experience sharing God's inspirations with you all. Continue to remain encouraged!!! Don't reminisce on the negative things because this isn't of God BUT focus on how He's continually blessing us with His presence, His favor and grace. Please remember the families grieving the losses over the victims of Sandy Hook and the slain Memphis Officer Lang in your prayers.

From the bottom of our hearts, we wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Jamison and I love you and God Bless!

Sincerely,


Chaquita

Monday, December 3, 2012

Spiritual Motivation

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10

Greetings Jewels! Isn't it interesting to know how people can become so intrigued with their daily lives? We look forward to planning or attending the next social event with EXCITEMENT...we look forward to the new fab or trend with hopes that no one else is aware of...we look forward to the end of our work schedule, with much EXCITEMENT but yet when it comes to God's work, we tend to become less concerned and not readily prepared to experience SACRIFICES, LONG HOURS AND EVEN SECRETLY SHED TEARS...but yet we wonder, where is the EXCITEMENT?!?

Daily, I'm learning that God's work is not based upon self-gratification; more soley on his perfect will being manifested through our lives. Please do not misunderstand! I'm not saying that you can not have fun in God because you can; I'm simply saying there will be times that you will have to let go of some things or bad habits in order for God to begin the pruning process. For example, ladies how long have you been trying to shed those unwanted pounds?!? My point exactly...LOL...Now you see, you can HAVE FUN in the Lord!

To reiterate, in all that you do for the Lord, remember to do it with MUCH JOY, LOVE AND EXCITEMENT. As stated in the scripture above, God has already predestined you for a purpose so don't be discouraged in your daily walk with the Lord. Look forward to seeing Him per-fect His perfect will in you.


Many blessings upon you,


Chaquita




Friday, November 16, 2012

Putting Your Feet To Your Faith

Hello Everyone,

I wanted to take a quick moment over lunch to share this thought with you.

This week at my church we are having revival services.  For those of you who don't know what that is, revival is a service were Christian's come together to hear the Word of God, be encouraged in our faith and rededicate ourselves to doing God work. (I had someone ask me what is revival yesterday.)

Last night the speaker talked about faith.  She quoted Matthew 9:29 which says, "...according to your faith be it unto you."  You can read the entire chapter to get a clear understanding of the scripture text.  This chapter in Matthew tells the story of the blind men who were following Jesus asking to be healed of their blindness.  Jesus lays His hands on their eyes and then says according to your faith be it unto you and instantly they received their sight.

So how did feet come into the picture?  Well the speaker really talked about how the blind men followed Jesus although they could not see him.  Then it hit me... they put their feet to their faith.  They believed with all of there hearts that Jesus could and would heal them.  They began to walk in the direction of were their faith which was in Jesus.  So many times we have faith in people and things and therefore we begin to follow them.  Place your faith in Jesus Christ and follow after Him.

Okay, I hope you get this with me.  If you are believing God to do something in your life.  If you have been praying, asking God, seeking God and knocking on God's door for something put your feet to your faith!!! Follow Jesus and begin walking in the direction that you are wanting to go.

If you have been asking for a job, begin get your feet in line with your faith and go after the job you want.  Have you been asking for God to help with financial provision? Begin to put you feet to your faith and look for ways to earn income while you keep faith that He will pour down a blessing upon you.

Now for my single Sisters seeking a spouse.  Do not, I repeat do not take this to mean that you are to hunt down a man like a tiger hunts down its prey.  It is up to the man to look for the woman.  "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord." Proverbs 18:22 NIV.  Putting your feet to faith in this area is to begin to prepare yourself to be a wife.  Ask yourself, do you need to improve your relationship with Jesus Christ so that you can be a true blessing to your husband, do you need to work on being a better housekeeper, better at managing your finances or becoming a better cook.  If the answer is yes to any of those questions then put your feet to faith in those areas and follow Jesus Christ as you prepare yourself.

What a revelation?!?!  I so love God.  He just blows my mind!

Asking God to bless each of you in a mighty way.

Much Love,
Jamison

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Something's Gotta Give

Good Afternoon!

BE ENCOURAGED ON THIS DAY! YOUR CURRENT SITUATION DOES NOT DEFINE WHO YOU ARE; BUT IT'S HOW YOU DEFINE THAT SITUATION.

BE ENCOURAGED MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN THE LORD AND KNOW THAT HE HAS SOMETHING IN STORE FOR YOU. IF YOU HAVE TO CRY, THEN CRY. IF YOU HAVE TO WEEP, THEN WEEP. IF YOU HAVE TO MOAN A LITTLE WHILE LONGER, THEN MAY THE HEAVENLY CHOIR RECEIVE EACH AND EVERY SOUND!

BE ENCOURAGED TO NOT ALLOW SATAN OR ANY MISHAPS AFFECT YOUR JOY THIS DAY OR THIS WEEK! JUST CONTINUE TO DECLARE GOD'S WORD OVER YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR CHILDREN. PRAY GOD WILL STREGTHEN YOU WHEN IT APPEARS OTHERS MAY HAVE COUNTED YOU OUT. BELIEVE GOD TO BE YOUR STRONG TOWER WHEN SITUATIONS SEEM AS IF THEY'RE ABOUT TO OVERTAKE YOU. HOLD ON TO GOD AND HIS PROMISES...HE'S CERTANILY NOT THROUGH WITH YOU AND I KNOW HE'S DEFINITELY NOT THROUGH WITH ME!

MAKE SURE YOU TELL ANY AND EVERY BYSTANDER TO WEAR THEIR SHADES BECAUSE GOD IS GETTING READY TO DO SOMETHING FOR YOU, HALLELUJAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!




PEACE & BLESSINGS,


CHAQUITA

Friday, November 2, 2012

November Memory Verse In everything give thanks!

Hello Everyone,

It is time for the November memory verse!  

"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
(1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV)

As Chaquita said in her last post, our minds become so bogged down with the issues of daily life.  Work, church and family can all be sources of stress.  But when life hits us in the face and we are in the middle of whatever the issue may be, give God thanks while in it. Thanking Leads to Blessing!

The pain, struggle and disappointment you are dealing with in this season are only for a moment.  Yes you may feel that it will never end but God holds your future.  He knows the plan He has for you. Thank Him in advance!!!  

 Much Love,
Jamison

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

What's In Your Heart?

Gooooooodddd Moooornnnnniinng!!!

(If you haven't noticed, I AM EXCITED about today and this blog)

Last night, I received an opportunity to commune with my King; no ladies, not my husband but with the Lord himself. Exploring through various scriptures and Christian articles, to "set aside time" was the main principle for us to live by. Have you ever wondered about the daily activities you spend so much time in? Do you receive enjoyment out of these activities? We've all been there... rushing to a child's event, church meeting, or dinner date and once we arrived, how did you feel? IMAGINE if we gathered that same energy and centered it on HIM? Now ask yourself, "how would that feel"?

Praying God will continue to grant you joy, peace and love everyday. May you discover your personal enjoyment in this life and trust God in knowing He will be with you, even to the ends of this earth. Love you all and have a wonderful day!



Sincerely,


Chaquita

Monday, October 22, 2012

A Spirit of Excellence!!!!

Hello Everyone,

Thank you so much for your prayers during our families time of loss.

The last few weeks I have been praying about the ministries I work in at my church, particularly the Membership Support Ministry.  Well, our faithful God has answered my prayers and I just have to share this with you.

Last week I was speaking with my mentor Sister S is what I will call her because I don't have permission to use her name online.  Sister S was speaking to a group of use and she mentioned having a Spirit of Excellence in regards to our worship.  That hit me like a ton of bricks.  That is what I need to have in regards to not only the Membership Support Ministry but also in every area of my life.  At work, at home, at church and in my relationships with family and friends.  A Spirit of Excellence!!!!

My friends and fellow brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ, please pray that God will give you a Spirit of Excellence in all that you do.  Write it down and share with others, it is time that we all strive to have a Spirit of Excellence.

My God Bless You All,

Jamison

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Show Your Support

Salutations Bloggers!

Our very own sister, friend and confident Jamison Price experienced two deaths in her family. Both an uncle and godmother passed away. As believers in Christ, we know that God makes no mistakes and to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. So although tears may fall, we trust and believe that God will provide strength and comfort to The Price Family during their time of bereavement.

Please remember Jamison and her family in your prayers. Love you and God Bless!





Sincerely,



Chaquita

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Make A Choice To Rejoice

"Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but REJOICE to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy". 1 Peter 4:12-13.

Good Morning, Saints of God! Just sending you some words of encouragement this morning. We understand how our everyday lives can become a bit overwhelming. In your mind, you're probably having a battle of what all needs to be done, has to get done or just not going to get done but whatever state you find yourself in, just REJOICE in the Lord! Consider all that you've been asked to do today or this week. Once you have it in your mind, think about how your absence from that very thing would impact those around you? So my brothers and sisters you may feel tired and stressed out but REJOICE IN THE LORD. REJOICE because God has already predestined you for greatness! REJOICE for HE has given you power and authority to trample over serpents. REJOICE because God has placed you in certain areas of your life, preparing you for a GREATER HARVEST! Please know that every tear, every restless night, every prayer, every fast has been sown into good ground and God is saying "MAKE A CHOICE TO REJOICE"; HE has seen all your works and HE will be just to reward you.

Take heed to His word and all His statutes...God bless!



Love,

Chaquita









Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Praise Him!!!

Hello Dear Ones,

Have you taken time to give God a shout of praise on  today?  Have you raised your voice to say "Hallelujah" or "Thank You Jesus"!

God is so good to us.  He loves you unconditionally, he provides for you,  He protects you,  He leads you, He keeps you in your right mind and He gave His only begotten son Jesus Christ who died for our sins, was raised from the dead so we can be saved and have eternal life by believing in Jesus and that He is the Son of God.

God is awesome, amazing, all knowing, excellent, faithful, just, holy, righteous and wise.  God is worthy of your praise on today. Right now at this very moment take time to praise our God.

When praises go up, blessings come down!  Praise God! HALLELUJAH!!!

God Bless You Dear Ones!

Jamison

Saturday, September 1, 2012

While There's Time...

Salutations to All from Tupeo, MS!!! It most certainly been a very looong time since I've written to you. There have been quite a few changes that I must adjust to but God is still in the blessing business...thank God for you and my dear friend, Jamison whose been faifthful and dilligent in making sure there was "some posts" on our blog. Yay!!

As I was contemplating on what to do next on my list (**wink**), God placed on my heart to leave you all an inspiring word on this evening...time truly brings about a change. With any change, we all must learn how to adapt and move forward, knowing God has a plan for our lives. Although people may change, friends will come and go but one true affirmation about God is that his love for us will NEVER change.

Last week, it seemed as if the devil was very busy in our church and even in the lives of our brothers and sisters. From car wrecks to dangers seen and unseen, God continues to keep us shielded and protected from all. So whatever you may be dealing with or going through, declare with me according to Job 13:15, "Though they slay me, yet will I trust in Him".

God is love and so am I!


Peace and Blessings,



Chaquita

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Get Going!

Hello Everyone,

Praying that you all are doing well.  It has been so long since I have written to you.  Been working but also in a mini slump.

Does this ever happen to you?  You have so many ideas, plans and dreams that you want to accomplish but it all seems overwhelming to just get started let alone complete what has already been started.  Well that is the dilemma I have been in leading up to my slump.  I have so many things I want to write about, so many ideas and dreams for our local church,  dreams that I would like to achieve for myself in life and organization projects to do around the house.  So many things are on my mind seemingly at once, that I shutdown because of not know were to begin but also because of fear (yes I know, I know) about what will happen if it succeeds or fails.

Well, while sitting at my desk just now it came to me!  Just GET GOING!!!!  Do whatever it is that God has placed on  your heart to do and DO IT!!! Don't wait, hesitate or  procrastinate.  Get Going and don't stop!  Don't ever stop!!!  Believe that God has given you these thoughts, ideas and dreams for a reason.  One to fulfill the purpose He has for your life and two to help someone along the way.

So I am telling you what God just told me, GET GOING!!!!!!

Much Love,
Jamison

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Listening Your Way Out of Failure

We lead such messy lives sometimes, directionally challenged, bad-decisions-scarred lives. And sometimes when we least expect it, we turn around and discover that we’ve sunken into a ‘pit’ that welcomed us so open-armedly that we didn’t even notice when our sinking began.
Renowned Bible teacher, Beth Moore, teaches about the ‘pit’, and how we can become so familiar with it that most people don’t even bother to seek a way out. We often decorate our pits, she says, so that they seem more homely. We move in our emotional couches and tables, recline and put our feet up, because in our minds we’ve hit a dead-end and after all, what’s so bad about being in a pit anyway? So it is we get stuck.

Though there is only one explicit mention in the Bible of someone being thrown into a pit, the idea of being hurled, whether by others or by our own doing, into a low, ditch-like situation is common throughout the entire biblical text. The human dilemma is that we are imperfect beings armed with free-will and a whole slew of emotions. Thus, we sometimes make choices based on how we feel, rather than slowing down and really giving thought to the possible repercussions. Our choices, or those of others, can wind up impacting us so negatively that we turn inward and assume the status of a pit-dweller.
Yet, pits are not homes, neither are they meant to be comfortable. At best, the pit is a place of testing and development, it is the place of processing deep hurts and disappointments and navigating through major life changes, but it is never supposed to be a place of permanent derailment. Your pit should produce a greater level of fortitude within you rather than weaken your resolve.

So how do you get out once you’ve slipped into one of life’s low places? I believe the answer starts with hearing God’s voice. There is such tremendous power, peace, and direction in hearing the Father’s voice in the midst of your situation, that it completely outweighs every other method or agent of relief. The glory of His presence is contained in the fact that He is ever present, and so even at our lowest point we discover, if we look closely, that He is there, lingering still, by our sides. And so it’s His voice that replaces light, when all around us is darkness.

God’s voice heard echoing through His Word is the rope thrown down to us for our rescue. There is undoubtedly nothing more powerful on the face of the earth than the Word of God – written, spoken, and manifested. If you listen closely, His Word will always point you to the ‘Exit’ sign, and reveal the heart of God to you. His Word always comes in to mop up our mess and realign our focus with the will of God. Today, choose to lean on God’s spoken and written Word as you navigate your way out of the place called ‘failure’. His Word is more than sufficient to guide you.

Scripture of the Day: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” - Psalm 119:105

By Kerri-Ann Haye-Donawa (Daily Devotional)


Wednesday, August 1, 2012

August Memory Verse

Hello Everyone,

I hope that all of you are doing well.  Today is August 1st, which means it is time for a new memory verse.  I hope that these verses are helpful and encouraging.  If you are memorizing them please let us know!

This month the verse is coming from Psalm 119:114 NIV.
        "You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word."
God is our refuge!  He said in His word that nothing can take us out of His hand.  That means regardless of what is going on around us God has us in His hand.  He has our back!

Hope in God's word!  Pray it back to Him.  Study it.  Listen to it. (I am right now!  If you go to www.biblegateway.com you can type in a book of the Bible or a passage of scripture then hit the speaker button and you can listen to the book or passage.)

Always remember God's word is true.  The Bible is God's love letter to you.  Read it, study it, memorize it and live by it.  God's word stands forever. Amen.

Much Love,.
Jamison

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

When? (Sorry, became a long post.)

Happy Lunch Time,

It has been sometime since I have written to you.  I hope that all of you are doing well. I just wanted to jump on here quickly to share with you a thought.

Last night I watched a TV program about the struggles  some people are having after facing job loss.  One family truly touched my heart.  The husband lost his job and after that the wife was diagnosed with breast cancer.  His hurt, disappointment and discouragement was all over his face without him saying a word.  While watching him going through his  routines of making his kids lunches and taking them to school so that they could  have some normalcy, you could see the love he has for his family.  He said when he lost his job he lost his value to his family.  Heartbreaking to hear from a man who loves and needs his family so much.  

I am making this post not because of him but because of a comment his wife made.  She said, "I know we made vows.  In sickness, in health and we got the sickness.  For richer, for poorer and we got the poorer.  For better, for worse and we got the worse. When will we get the positive things."  Wow!  She did not talk to the host the rest of the show.  

How many times have we asked God when?  When Lord?  Well number, I don't know when.  I can say that I have asked that one word question many times over the years.  God does know when but it is hard because sometimes things seem to only get worse while waiting. We have to learn how to wait on Him and keep moving ahead.  Taking each day at a time.  

You may be saying, Jamison that is easier said than done.  But I assure you that it can be done. I have been there very recently.  

These are some of the things I did while going through nearly 3 years of struggle, disappointment and shame after loosing my job.

1.  Pray - Even when you are angry pray.  Even when your like this is my 40th time asking for this!  Pray anyway.

2. Cry - Let it out.  Job 16:20 talks about how Job poured out his tears to God. Crying does not mean you are weak.  When we are being broken for God's glory it is hard and it hurts.  Let the tears flow.

3. Read the Bible - Search the scriptures for God's promises.  When the time comes God's word will come back to you and you can pray His word to Him. ( Back to number 1.)

4. Journal or talk to someone. - Yes you are talking to God in prayer and you can talk to him throughout your day. It also helped me to have someone to talk to.  Out of my inner circle of 3 friends only 1 knew what was going on.  He held everything I said in confidence, let me talk and cry when I needed to and he fed me the necessary cupcake I occasionally needed. LOL!  If you don't have that one special person then write it down.  Write down every feeling thought and even your prayers.  WRITE IT!  This step is to help you get the words and questions out of your head.  

5. Disclaimer to number 4.- Watch your words.  Proverbs 18:21 tells us that life and death is in the power of the tongue so don't say something you don't want to see happen. 

6. Help and/or pray for other people.- The best way to get your mind off of yourself is to focus on someone else.  Pray for others even start a prayer journal or list of those you are praying for.  Help at your church or volunteer in the community.  This step also helps you to feel better about yourself and helps rebuild self esteem and confidence.  Plus seeing God answer your prayers for others is an encouragement to you that your answer is on the way.  

7.  BE GRATEFUL! - This is so important!!!  Be grateful that you are alive.  Be grateful that God has a plan for you.  Be grateful that Jesus Christ saved you.  Be grateful that God loves you. Be grateful that at this moment you have the technology to read this blog!  BE GRATEFUL!!!!  Right now just say, Lord I Thank You!  Lord I Love You.  

So how are things right now for me you ask.  So much better. Just on this past Monday I texted my mentor that I feel like myself again.  That my heart feels full of joy, love and peace.  Guys I have not felt like this in almost 3 years.  I was in a deep, deep pit but to God be the glory.

I hope this post has helped you.  Know that God loves you and so do I.

Much Love To You,
Jamison

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Let Freedom Ring!!!

Good Morning, Salty and Bright Followers!!! LET FREEDOM RING!!! It's with much sincere prayer and thoughts that you and yours will be comforted on this week. As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends, please remember to exercise safety precautions at all times. Jamison and I wish each of you a very happy and blessed holiday.

Heavenly Father, we come before you today with a gratitude of thanks. Lord, we thank you for keeping us and watching over us just like the Good Shepherd you are. Father, we lift up every follower and t heir families to you and ask that you will shield and protect them from any hurt harm and danger. We open our hearts to you and submit every care and concern unto you. Father we know the plans that you have for this life and we know it is good and not of evil. Father, bless each and every soldier that's on the battlefield fighting for our safety and protection. Father, strengthen all who is weak and empower those who feel like they can't fight anymore. Let each of us be reminded that we should not grow weary in doing good for we will reap what we sow if we faint not. Hallelujah! Lord, you are good and your mercy endureth forever. Amen!  I challenge each of you to have a joyous week. Always remember to encourage someone in your daily walk. The joy of the Lord is your strength. And as always, stay blessed.





Love,



Chaquita

Monday, June 25, 2012

Happy Monday!!!

Good Morning, Bloggers! Sorry for not reaching out to you all in the past week. Hoping that each of you are continuing holding on to God and his unchanging hands. Hoping that He will continue to enrich you and your families with peace, blessings and everlasting love. Remember that He is a God that can not lie and if we continue to delight ourselves in Him, he will give us the desires of our hearts. But let's not let that be our only means of serving Him. Let's become engrounded in His Word, His presence, His love so others may desire to know Him as well. Have you thanked Him today? Have you told him how much you love Him or adore Him? Don't hold on to anything and think He possibly doesn't know how you feel! Remember He already knew you when you were being created in the womb. HALLELUJAH!!!

Heavenly Father, we come this day with a mind made up to continue to serve, praise and worship you. Father, forgive us for any sins we have committed. Forgive us for not showing love to others as you would want us to. Convict us when we begin to think vain or deceitful things and cleanse us from selfish desires and wants. Father, we desire to stay in your will but help us to not fall prey to the enemy's tactics. We're aware that the enemy comes to kill, steal and destroy; he's always looking for someone to devour. Father, we come before you and acknowledge that you are the potter and we're the clay. We acknowledge YOU being our buckler, our strong tower, our refuse in the time of the storm. Father, deposit in us a spirit of discernment and let us not be moved or tricked by flattering words or actions. As we continue to live day by day, we commit our every being, thought and ways unto you. Father, we're seeking your direction in all areas of our lives. You are the Good Shepherd and we desire to be led by your Holy Spirit. Father, we love you. Father, whatever you're doing in the midst of my brothers and sisters, Amen! Father, whatever or whomever you need for us to let go, Amen! Father, even with tears in our eyes from pain, heartache and frustration, or misunderstandings, Lord Amen! For we know that all things work together for the good of those who love God. Be blessed and encouraged is my forever prayer for each of you!

Have a wonderful week!



Love,

Chaquita

Thursday, June 14, 2012

What purpose are you serving?

Good Morning! In life, we become so consumned in our daily routines, jobs, duties etc. The reason being is because we EXPECT RESULTS such as promotions, raises, achievements and so forth. But what happens when the role(s) you've been portraying has became stale or unproductive? You may ask yourself this question, "what purpose am I serving?" Hmmm, now you may begin to ask "what area(s) in my life is lacking such purpose and what steps can be taken to improve the identified area?"

John 15:5 says: "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing". Here Jesus is emphasizing the connection between the vine and the branches. Jesus is the source of life and the source of fruitfulness. The person who has a continual intimate fellowship with Jesus will produce much fruit. Apart from that fellowship with Jesus, we will not produce fruit no matter how hard we try or how much we work at it. We can read the Bible, study it in the different languages, and study all the works of different teachers and still not have fellowship with God the Father. We can pray until we are blue in the face and still not have fellowship with Jesus. We can obey all the laws and still not have fellowship with the Holy Spirit.

In conclusion, if you've ever asked yourself this question, don't condemn yourself into thinking that God does not love you. He may be trying to get your attention and needs you to focus on Him in spite of whatever you may be going through right now. He LOVES YOU! And don't you forget it. May you continue to seek God for direction in all areas of your life and watch how He'll work it out for you.

Listed below are some words to live by:

a . SEEK: (meaning to search diligently for).  (Jeremiah 29:13).
b. CALL: (meaning to cry out).  (Jeremiah 33:3).
c. ASK: (meaning to make a sincere request). (John 15:7).
d. WAIT: (meaning to be patient to receive). (Psalms 27:14).
e. HEAR: (meaning to listen to understand). (I Samuel 3:10).
f. VOLUNTEER: (meaning to be willing to serve before asked). (Isaiah 6:8).
g. OBEY: (meaning to follow through with the instructions).  (John 10:27).

**Illustration: Take a large clear pitcher and fill it most of the way with water. Pour in just enough cooking oil until you have a thin solid layer of oil on the surface of the water. Next, take some red food coloring and pour a few large drops of the food coloring on top of the oil and watch what happens. It may take a minute or more for the food coloring to penetrate through the oil. If after a minute or so nothing happens, try adding a little more red food coloring. Now, see the water as the world and yourself as the thin layer of cooking oil. See the red food coloring as the love of God flowing through your life into the world. Don't just read this, but try it. It will be an illustration that you won't forget.





(Reference:Bearing Fruit, http://www.wholeperson-counseling.org/)

Hoping everyone will have a wonderful rest of the week!


Chaquita