Lil Son Chronicles ~ Chapter Completed...

Inspirations: August 05... August 08... and New Prosperity... Shanice... Dorinda...

Jeremiah 29:11. James 1:3-4, Psalm 139, Romans 8, Hebrews 11, Psalm 5

Hmmm, it's almost the end of this month. It was also about this time 3 years ago when God delivered me from the lowest of low points in my life. I don't know how many of you have ever wanted to commit suicide but when you get to that point, you know the only way you can come out is through the goodness of God.

Today, I got some interesting news from one of my buddies. In a nutshell some seasons are over... or the way I look at it... a chapter has been read... analyzed and completed. And now its time to move on to the next chapter of life.

And while that sounds easy to do; trust and believe, it is indeed a challenge. For one, you are stepping out of your "norm" into unknown territory. Also, you have to make a sacrifice to let go of things, desires and folks. In a lot of cases it's issues or folks that mean you no good, but in some cases you do ask God... Uhhh??? You want me to give up what?... who???

But here's the funny thing, even when you initially let go, Satan also tries to present new spirits and demons to try to distract and take over you. But eventually, you finally get to a point when your spirit man lines up with God and finally say... "enough is enough... God you are for me and Satan... I rebuke you in the name of Jesus Christ."

Now people say what they want about me now, cuz I'ma big Dorinda fan (I let 'em talk). But I don't like Dorinda because of her status. She caught my attention in 2006 when I check out some youtube clips and I finally learned about the story behind her song, "I'm Still Here." To think that someone with all the fame and success would want to committ suicide. Her reason; a church hurt. And while I have not experienced this; I can only imagine that in her mind, she was at her lowest of lows and felt like what's left???

I guess that's why I appreciate her a lil' more than that other Clark Sisters (this does not take anything from Twinkie, Jacky or Karen... they all are true instruments from God... so chill), cuz we both have been on the verge of letting it all go. But the fact that Dorinda was able to share her story really helped me to deal with the fact that I actually wanted to kill myself.

But back to the subject.

Sometimes it is very easy to close a chapter in life; while with others, it can be like hell on earth. But in either case, once you are able to close the chapter... you feel like a burden has been lifted. For me it was not only the suicide, but more so what lead up to that point... being talked about in school... not being able to go to my parents, because it seem like their problems were more important... or my sisters because it seem like they were so much older and more important... myself being nonchalant about everything with no drive to live life.

But I thank God for James 1:3-4... I thank Him for reminding me through dreams of my dad (God rest his soul), the trials of Hurricane Katrina... and the new temple that God is creating in me. For all these things, as well as the past, are working together for my good according to the Love God has for me and the Plan He has laid out. And not only do these things work in my favor, but because I choose to be a willing able vessel, the light shining in me will be a blessing from God to many. I am truly thankful for God using me; as messy as I can be, He still chooses me.

And for the rest of you out there... I don't know... it may be a church hurt... or a sickness or a betrayal... or family hurts or drugs or prostitution... whatever...

Just know that GOD LOVES YOU... With each day GOD'S LOVE FOR YOU NEVER FAILS. He will lead you through every storm... test... and all the enemy, this world and yes even yourself tries to throw at you.

THOUGHT: When I think about the fact that had I gone through with what I wanted to do 3 years ago. How would my family go on? How would Jermell and Gloria go on? I woulda never met Charles and Colin. All the writings that God has used me to share... who's soul would have been lost if I had did what I wanted? The eternal damnation I would have experienced...

But God...

When you are able to testify about what was meant to destroy you... that is when you are truly freed from the chains of that situation and you finally complete the chapter.

Below are two songs... The first is by one of my favorite artists, Shanice. While this song, I think all of us can relate to on many levels, I found myself looking at it from a spiritual level. Call me crazy, but this song has definitely gotten me through past relationships and help me to grown in relationship with God.

The second song is from another favorite, Dorinda Clark Cole. There are couple I could'a chose; I'm Still Here... Yesterday... I Got A Reason... You Can't Take My Joy... and yes... even Take It Back (that's another blog)... But I chose this song because for one... it's a mime presentation and the words mean so much to me now. Had I heard this song a year ago I don't think they would have the same affect as they do now...

Enjoy and be blessed this holiday weekend.

Lil Son Chronicles ~ The Divine Detour

I recall about a year ago, my mom let me watch this show of the Last Seven Words... It was done at her church 1^st Baptist Church of Mahan St. – Suffolk, Va. SIDENOTE: Pastor Steven Blount... off da chain!

Nonetheless, there was one pastor, Rev. Janelle Riddick – 1^st Baptist Church of Franklin, which spoke on “A Divine Detour.” I can’t recall what scripture she used; however, my mind is going a million miles with the thought of a “Divine Detour.”

But what does it mean? Let’s break it down.

Definition of Divine. Having the nature of or being a deity. Of, relating to, emanating from, or being the expression of a deity: sought divine guidance through meditation. Being in the service or worship of a deity; sacred.

Definition of Detour. A roundabout way or course, especially a road used temporarily instead of a main route. A deviation from a direct course of action.

Hmmmm. Divine; being in the service or worship of a deity (in our case God). Being in the presence of God. And while that’s good it’s not enough. It’s when we operate in that presence or invoke His presence with praise and worship. After all that is the ultimate goal. But how many of us are just content with the presence? Let’s look at the Word.

God’s Presence & God’s Glory.

Matthew 13:53 -58

[53] When Jesus had finished telling these stories and illustrations, he left that part of the country.

[54] He returned to Nazareth, his hometown. When he taught there in the synagogue, everyone was amazed and said, “Where does he get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?”

[55] Then they scoffed, “He’s just the carpenter’s son, and we know Mary, his mother, and his brothers—James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas.

[56] All his sisters live right here among us. Where did he learn all these things?”

[57] And they were deeply offended and refused to believe in him. Then Jesus told them, “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his own family.”

[58] And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief.

How many of us have gone away to the military, college or some job and when you come back “home” folks looking at you strange and hating. Here’s a case with Jesus. He went back home to teach in the synagogue and folks were hating on a brother. Talking about he’s a carpenter son’s. Because they were offended and refused to believe in him, Jesus only performed a few miracles because of their unbelief. Same with us; because we want more, the very ones that think they know us want to carry us. Because all they can talk about is your past, but they don’t know; God knows your past too and holds tomorrow.

But the key here is this; these people were in the presence of Jesus and yet not in His glory. How many of us are like this? We think it’s enough to have God’s presence, but what good will it do if we don’t invoke His presence with praise and worship? That’s how His Glory comes through and when that happens... everything changes.

Detour; deviation from a direct course of action. Let’s be real. We at times feel like we have it all mapped out how it will happen. Or we talk a good game but can’t play the game. But real talk, we don’t have all the answers, and we don’t know it all. But God does. In Psalm 139 (some of y’all know this is my Psalm lol...), David says that God knows our thoughts...

Isaiah 55:8-9
8)"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. 9)"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Yesterday, I was talking with a couple friends. As usual we always joking and I made comment in reference to Saul conversion to Paul. Amazing. To think that this man, a persecutor of Christians would be converted to a preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And I’m should he did not have thoughts of this event, but God knows better.

And yet while on his way to Damascus, God intervened with what I would think of as a divine detour. See Saul (in his mind) was to continue persecuting Christians, yet God got his attention long enough for Saul to realize the error in his judgment and to press forward in the Will of God.

Acts 9:1-22

1Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” 5"Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. 6"Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” 7The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.

10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!” "Yes, Lord," he answered. 11The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.” 13"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. 14And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” 15But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. 16I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” 17Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. 20At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. 21All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” 22Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ.

Maybe for you it’s not persecution of Christians, but we all have demons that we battle. And yet God will intervene on our behalf. And that’s great! Great because, He will remove the problem and issues... but what He is really trying to do take us on a divine detour to get to root of that issue. Many of us are dealing with crazy relationships, drugs, alcohol, bills and just self esteem issues. We ask God to remove it and He will, but what’s the reason why we deal with this stuff? What event or person has caused these issues to unfold? There’s always cause and effect, even when we don’t see in black and white. So instead of asking God to remove this issue or while He catches you off guard, ask Him to give you power to cut it off at the root. If that means you go back to the past and deal with some stuff... or if that means you gotta cut off folks that “love” and “care for” you that spitefully use you in Satan’s puppet show... YOU MAKE IT DO WHAT IT DO AND LET GOD LEAD YOU THRU.

Going on the divine detours are difficult... You are force to do self examinations and asking yourself questions that have been asked by others. Let’s face it, who wants to deal with all of that... but as you deal with it, you can become a stronger person in God and truly be a blessing to others all while God takes you to the next level. Not everyone will understand you once you start this divine detour, but don’t worry about it. When you are truly serious about what God has for you... plans... blessings... TASK and MISSION... you can’t allow others (that are false prophets and fake people) to deter you from the Mission that God has ordained for you. After all you may be the one that God uses to claim some of the false prophets and fake people back to God.

THOUGHT: Don’t be afraid of the Divine Detour. While it is a challenge, it’s worth it. We heard the song Pure Gold... and we sing it like we wrote... but when do you stop just singing it and start living it?

Haggai 2:15
" 'Now give careful thought to this from this day on —consider how things were before one stone was laid on another in the Lord’s temple.

Think about it... Be blessed...

Father God,

It amazes me that in all the hell that Satan throws at me and the issues that I deal with, You still put a word in me that convicts me. I thank You for the raw conviction in my spirit, because its keeps me grounded. And while there is still much room for improvement, I am thankful that You continue to pull me back every time. I can’t speak for others, but You always manage to pull me back before I go on the deep end. And each time, You always elevate me a lil’ more. I thank for preserving me so that I can serve You. Lord, preserve us all so that we may serve You better.

In Jesus Christ,

Amen

Lil’ Son Chronicles ~ The Reminder to Be Humble...

This past weekend was quite interesting in a number of ways. Conversations ranged from issues at work, to fake people, to drama, to the Word and so on. But all and all, God has reminded me of something that I am truly grateful to Him for; that is to be humble.

You know it’s something when you get saved. Your mindset has the option to change and indeed it does. But instead of it being a humble experience if we are not careful it can become a level cockiness and arrogance that will cloud what God is trying to do in you and in turn in many others. From time to time I always go to these two verses:

Romans 15

1) We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.

2) Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

From time to time we are the strong person that helps the weak and from time to time we are the weak person that needs the strong person. Case and point, me as an individual, I don’t know it all. And while God has blessed me with talents and spiritual gifts, someone else may have spiritual gifts and talents that may be a blessing to me as well.

A buddy of mines and I were talking on yesterday. He said so many things that registered with me. It was a blessing indeed because for one, it was almost like looking at a mirror image of how I used to be. Conversation wise... thoughts of appearance... self worth and etc. But I do say “almost” because there was a difference. You see while he admits to the fact that there are areas in his life that are not up to par, he also had a reason to say Thank You Jesus for the blessings. And that was something I, myself 5 years ago, could not do while going through.

At that moment, I know the Lord spoke to me and said, “In a lot of ways you were him, but in a lots way he is you.” Of course I’m like what ‘cha mean God??”

The Vincent that people see now is quite different from 2003... Even from 2007. And while I am grateful for the changes that God has made, I must also be reminded that humility must be in midst of the growing process.

So here are some points or thoughts:

Be mindful that who you are is not by your own merit. God is the reason why we are still here and have the ability to grow in Him.

Don’t forget where you come from. The bottom ain’t dat far from the top and vice versa.

If you know or see people that are going through, be a blessing and share your testimony. I believe that God bringing you out the situation is only part of the healing process. But once you can look at that past hurt, see the testimony in it, and be able to let someone else know that they can make it, that’s when the healing comes full circle.

Give God thanks for the reminder. When God starts to bless us we tend to forget that a time ago, things were not always on the good end. But God will remind you (or snatch you back) to remind you to be humble and compassionate.

THOUGHT: As challenging as it is, being humble will keep you grounded. And if you are humble to God in who you are, He will elevate you to the next level.

P.S. I like to end this chronicle off with a few songs that I really like... Enjoy

Israel & Nu Breed

Vicki Yohe

Yolanda Adams

Lil' Son Chronicles ~ From Opposition to Position...

This will be really short. Just wanted to send out some encouragement...

2 Chronicles 20:17
You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem . Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.' "

Matthew 3:3
This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.' "

Matthew 11:10 - This is the one about whom it is written: " 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.'

John 14:2 & John 14:3
In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Corinthians 2:9
However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"

Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

THOUGHT: What God has for you is for you. But look past the material. While yes, He will bless you with the tangible... it's the intangible He really wants to bless you with. Your opposition is preparing you to be in position so that God can elevate you.

Lil' Son Chronicles ~ When You Know That You Know That You Know

I'm not even gon' try to go behind what you about to see... I will say this... Really listen to the words and just think about the fact that when you try God and find out somethings for yourself about Him... you can't help but to say I know that I know... oh and get yo' jam on of course...

THOUGHT: When you know God for yourself... you will start having conversations with Him like this below...

Yolanda Adams... You Know That I Know...

Lil' Son Chronicles ~ The Importance of Discernment

Currently at this point in my walk with God, I feel like this is one gift to be reckon with. It amazes how important this gift is. With this gift... many many many issues that we dealt with or are dealing with could be cut off at the root. But let's see what the definition of discern is.

Discern: To perceive or recognize as being different or distinct; distinguish. To detect with senses other than vision.

Hmmm... to detect with senses other than vision. For example, the company that we keep. Let's just be real. Everyone that grin and skin in yo' face... they aren't always for you. Sad as it is... it's true. And we questioned it... why is all this happening to me?

Something my friend Gloria told me on last week. When God promotes you to the next level... be prepared for the attacks to increase. God has placed an anointing on you. And because His Favor is on you, the enemy will do everything he can to keep you from operating in that favor.

*NOTE* God anointment on your life can never be taken away from Satan... you are the one that has the power to operated in it or push it away.

Take for example. Person X. Person X has found favor in God... and God wants to use Person X for a greater purpose then where he/she is at currently. And that sounds are gravy... but what's the price? Is it a lonely season? Is it a season in where you are in valley with nothing but the lily? Is it a time where God is stripping you of anything and anyone that means harm instead of helping to build up the Kingdom of God.

And hence comes the true fight. Your battle first and foremost is Lord's. Also, the battle is not with people. Granted we as humans think in those terms. You deal with the back bitting, the gossiping (which I might add is a complete waste of time... if you gotta run yo' mouth give a praise to God), the cheating... financial situations and so on and so on. But do your best to not get hung up solely on this issues... it's not so much the issue... it's more of the spiritual attacks.

Now of course we always hear of this verse.

Isaiah 54:17 (KJV). No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.

And while it's the truth... let's include this verse...

2 Corinthians 10:4 (NIV). The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.

But getting back to the subject of matter, one prayer that we should always have in our spirit to God is that He would grant us the gift of discernment. And we can have it, but it comes with studying the Word daily, praying... and of course... praise and worship. All of this connected because then God can then tell you when you dealing with real people or people that have alterative motives.

And even though there are those out there wish to deceive you... you still must love them... Matthew 5:44... and pray for them... because when it really boils down... they need help as well to fight against the enemy.

THOUGHT: In every situation, you are obligated to praise the Lord. If you put the attention on a praise to God more than the situation... you will be lifted up.

Lil' Son Chronicles ~ Got To Hold On...

Most that know me... knows I'm a big Dorinda Clark-Cole fan... to me (my personal opinion) she is my favorite Clark sister. Nonetheless... I got some news on last thursday as well as today that got me thinking... wow... I wonder what God will do to show up and show out in both situations... and that's the key... not if He will... but when and how...

This song below reminds us all that we have to hold on through everything with a praise and worship...

THOUGHT: Your condition is not your conclusion. The situation is not the salvation. Keep your spirit focused on God and He will glorify you as you Glorify Him.

Repost: Can I???

*Good Morning Everyone:

This is the day that the Lord has made and we should rejoice and be glad. Yeah, it is yet another Monday morning...many of us up at work. But I pray that you all are having a blessed day and that your week be blessed also.* Enjoy the repost...

Inspiration ~ I Can – Kirk Franklin

Look into my heart and you will see pieces of a broken man
Behind the music there’s an empty space that no one seems to understand
Imagine how it feels to be so down you cannot hear a melody
Imagine how it feels to look in the mirror and never like what you see

Who can make my dark clouds brighter
Who can take my broken spirit higher
Who can love me like I really need to be loved
I can hear a quiet voice say, I can

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Remember as a child when you would ask the teacher, “Can I use the bathroom?” Most would say yes. I remember in the sixth grade, I would ask Mrs. Speight, “Can I use the bathroom?” And she would reply, “Well I don’t know, can you?”

Of course I would look at her like she was crazy but then she said, “Don’t ask can you, ask may you.” She didn’t tell me why, but when I got home, I asked my grandmother about it.

She said, “Son, you asking can you use the bathroom is saying are you capable of going to a restroom and using the facility properly. Asking may you use the bathroom is actually asking for permission.”

I think about that now and wonder... how many times have we asked can I? In life, many occurrences will tear us down and leave us wondering, “Can I?” “Am I capable of going, doing and being?”

Amazing enough God reminds us in His Word, that through Christ we can do all things. And why, because He reminds us that even in our brokenness, He whispers, “I Can.” Many of us have been stretched all around because of life and we wonder if we can? The answer is that yes, we can...

We can because He died for us and got up with all power and that power lives in us. And because He can.... we may boldly give God all the praises for all that He can do in us...

THOUGHT: Always be mindful, that you can do anything... with God... you will do far more than you can ever imagine... instead of saying, “Can I” say “I Claim It...” Remember speak over yourself...

Lil’ Son Chronicles ~ A Work Week of Test(imonies)

Inspirations: Conversations with my God brothers (Thanks Rollo and Re-Run LOL!!!) ... phone conversations on Wednesday (Thanks Gloria!) Thursday (Thanks Perry!) ... Folks Work... A Worthy Cause... Family... and most important... The Word of God...

Psalm 91:1 - He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

Matthew 5:43-45 - 43 "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

This work week has been quite an interesting week for me. Everyday this work week I’ve learned a new lesson...

Monday. Take the risk for the next level. While it may not always go as you expect, be thankful that you have taken that chance. If you never take the chance to get a yes or a no, you’ll regret that you never asked.

Tuesday. Doing the smallest things (or so we view them at times) can truly be a blessing to many. Don’t take for granted God’s purpose for you to be a blessing to someone else.

Wednesday. Matthew 5:44 and Psalm 91:1. God will give the peace you need to deal with the hell that comes against you. God also will send someone your way right on time to give you a word, which goes back to my first sentence... “God will give the peace you need to deal with the hell that comes against you.”

Thursday. There’s a time to speak and a time to be an ear. More times listening will do 2 things. One, it will give that person that is venting or talking a therapeutic way to clear their spirit. Two, remind you of past or possibly current issues that you are dealing/deal with; therefore, being humbled. Also, we don’t always have the answers and sometimes it’s not necessary to voice our opinions... but all the time... ask that person, “would you like me to pray for you and with you?”

Today. That in spite of everything that comes against us... the key thing is worship and praise to God. No matter what is going on, DO NOT FOCUS OF THE PROBLEM... FOCUS ON HOW IF YOU PRAISE and WORSHIP GOD IN THE MIDST OF THAT PROBLEM, HE CAN GET THE GLORY AND IN TURN YOU ARE GLORIFIED TOO... IF YOU LIFT THE LORD UP... HE WILL LIFT YOU UP TO THE NEXT LEVEL...

THOUGHT: Individually, we all deal with situations differently. But I feel that in everyone... there’s a breaking point when you say to yourself... enough is enough... it’s time to step out on faith... work that faith... come into God’s presence... invoke His presence with praise and worship... and cut off this one that claim they “love me” and that one that claim “they are my friend” and this financial set back and that drug addiction and these suicide attempts and all that mess. Eventually you get to the point of I’m out of this ... and over that. For me I had to come to that conclusion in 2006... and today I can truly say that I’m out the hell that enemy tried to flood me with and I’m over the frustration that the hell caused me... Now the question I propose to you.... WHEN IS ENOUGH.... ENOUGH???? THINK ABOUT IT...

Lil’ Son Productions ~ This One Thing...

I think it was couple years of ago when my girl Amerie came back with her second album, Touch... She did have this banging track, “One Thing.” The beat is gansta... and I like her voice... But of course I listened to the chorus and there goes my mind.

Chorus

It's this one thing that's got me trippin
It's this one thing that's got me trippin (you did)
This one thing my soul may be feeling
It's this one thing you did oh oh
It's this one thing that caught me slippin
It's this one thing I want to admit it
This one thing and I was so with it
It's this one thing you did oh oh

Bridge

Maybe I just can't believe it
It's this one thing you did oh oh
I can't deny, tired of trying
Open up the door, but just keep on seeing you
I'm hoping you can keep a secret
For me, for me, for me
But what you did, yeah

Now I know she’s referring to a dude that apparently put it on her lol... but reading this chorus and bridge ... hmmm.... I started thinking something else.

Think of one thing that God walked with you through until it was finished. Anything. Think about it long and hard. Remember all the emotions behind it. The people in your circle at the time. The time of year; season. Take all of that in. Now like most people that one thing will cause you to think of many things.

But how about this thing:

The one thing that God did that has us all trippin’ still is:

John 3:16

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Ain’t it something? To think that God... all power... here and there at the same time... Alpha and Omega... Jireh... Nissi... Rapha ... would you and me sooo much that He allow His Son perfect Son to die for us; the imperfect.

And not only did Jesus Christ die.... He got up... and not only did He get up... He got up with all Power... and not only does He possess all Power... because we are heirs... we have all power.

Now if that ain’t enough for you to start trippin’ lol...

THOUGHT:

There are many blessings God bestows upon us all. But this for me has to be best thing God ever did for me. Through death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, I have the opportunity to live for God. As I mentioned once before, each day God blesses us to wake up, He has given us another opportunity to make a change. The power that Christ possesses does indeed live within you and me. This power is ever changing us and we should everyday be willing to tap into it so that we can go to the next level in God.

Side Thought:

I can't deny, tired of trying
Open up the door, but just keep on seeing you

Many of us are running from God and don’t realize it. That is until we reached the second wind. All the doors that you opened may not have been apart of His Plan for you, but He’s always there...

Lil’ Son Chronicles ~ The Divine Detour...

I recall about a year ago, my mom let me watch this show of the Last Seven Words... It was done at her church 1^st Baptist Church of Mahan St. – Suffolk, Va. SIDENOTE: Pastor Steven Blount... off da chain!

Nonetheless, there was one pastor, Rev. Janelle Riddick – 1^st Baptist Church of Franklin, which spoke on “A Divine Detour.” I can’t recall what scripture she used; however, my mind is going a million miles with the thought of a “Divine Detour.”

But what does it mean? Let’s break it down.

Definition of Divine. Having the nature of or being a deity. Of, relating to, emanating from, or being the expression of a deity: sought divine guidance through meditation. Being in the service or worship of a deity; sacred.

Definition of Detour. A roundabout way or course, especially a road used temporarily instead of a main route. A deviation from a direct course of action.

Hmmmm. Divine; being in the service or worship of a deity (in our case God). Being in the presence of God. And while that’s good it’s not enough. It’s when we operate in that presence or invoke His presence with praise and worship. After all that is the ultimate goal. But how many of us are just content with the presence? Let’s look at the Word.

God’s Presence & God’s Glory.

Matthew 13:53 -58

[53] When Jesus had finished telling these stories and illustrations, he left that part of the country.

[54] He returned to Nazareth, his hometown. When he taught there in the synagogue, everyone was amazed and said, “Where does he get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?”

[55] Then they scoffed, “He’s just the carpenter’s son, and we know Mary, his mother, and his brothers—James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas.

[56] All his sisters live right here among us. Where did he learn all these things?”

[57] And they were deeply offended and refused to believe in him. Then Jesus told them, “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his own family.”

[58] And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief.

How many of us have gone away to the military, college or some job and when you come back “home” folks looking at you strange and hating. Here’s a case with Jesus. He went back home to teach in the synagogue and folks were hating on a brother. Talking about he’s a carpenter son’s. Because they were offended and refused to believe in him, Jesus only performed a few miracles because of their unbelief. Same with us; because we want more, the very ones that think they know us want to carry us. Because all they can talk about is your past, but they don’t know; God knows your past too and holds tomorrow.

But the key here is this; these people were in the presence of Jesus and yet not in His glory. How many of us are like this? We think it’s enough to have God’s presence, but what good will it do if we don’t invoke His presence with praise and worship? That’s how His Glory comes through and when that happens... everything changes.

Detour; deviation from a direct course of action. Let’s be real. We at times feel like we have it all mapped out how it will happen. Or we talk a good game but can’t play the game. But real talk, we don’t have all the answers, and we don’t know it all. But God does. In Psalm 139 (some of y’all know this is my Psalm lol...), David says that God knows our thoughts...

Isaiah 55:8-9
8)"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. 9)"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Yesterday, I was talking with a couple friends. As usual we always joking and I made comment in reference to Saul conversion to Paul. Amazing. To think that this man, a persecutor of Christians would be converted to a preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And I’m should he did not have thoughts of this event, but God knows better.

And yet while on his way to Damascus, God intervened with what I would think of as a divine detour. See Saul (in his mind) was to continue persecuting Christians, yet God got his attention long enough for Saul to realize the error in his judgment and to press forward in the Will of God.

Acts 9:1-22

1Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” 5"Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. 6"Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” 7The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.

10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!” "Yes, Lord," he answered. 11The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.” 13"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. 14And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” 15But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. 16I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” 17Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. 20At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. 21All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” 22Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ.

Maybe for you it’s not persecution of Christians, but we all have demons that we battle. And yet God will intervene on our behalf. And that’s great! Great because, He will remove the problem and issues... but what He is really trying to do take us on a divine detour to get to root of that issue. Many of us are dealing with crazy relationships, drugs, alcohol, bills and just self esteem issues. We ask God to remove it and He will, but what’s the reason why we deal with this stuff? What event or person has caused these issues to unfold? There’s always cause and effect, even when we don’t see in black and white. So instead of asking God to remove this issue or while He catches you off guard, ask Him to give you power to cut it off at the root. If that means you go back to the past and deal with some stuff... or if that means you gotta cut off folks that “love” and “care for” you that spitefully use you in Satan’s puppet show... YOU MAKE IT DO WHAT IT DO AND LET GOD LEAD YOU THRU.

Going on the divine detours are difficult... You are force to do self examinations and asking yourself questions that have been asked by others. Let’s face it, who wants to deal with all of that... but as you deal with it, you can become a stronger person in God and truly be a blessing to others all while God takes you to the next level. Not everyone will understand you once you start this divine detour, but don’t worry about it. When you are truly serious about what God has for you... plans... blessings... TASK and MISSION... you can’t allow others (that are false prophets and fake people) to deter you from the Mission that God has ordained for you. After all you may be the one that God uses to claim some of the false prophets and fake people back to God.

THOUGHT: Don’t be afraid of the Divine Detour. While it is a challenge, it’s worth it. We heard the song Pure Gold... and we sing it like we wrote... but when do you stop just singing it and start living it?

Haggai 2:15
" 'Now give careful thought to this from this day on —consider how things were before one stone was laid on another in the Lord’s temple.

Think about it... Be blessed...

Father God,

It amazes me that in all the hell that Satan throws at me and the issues that I deal with, You still put a word in me that convicts me. I thank You for the raw conviction in my spirit, because its keeps me grounded. And while there is still much room for improvement, I am thankful that You continue to pull me back every time. I can’t speak for others, but You always manage to pull me back before I go on the deep end. And each time, You always elevate me a lil’ more. I thank for preserving me so that I can serve You. Lord, preserve us all so that we may serve You better.

In Jesus Christ,

Amen