Today is a special day. Today is my godbrother’s birthday, Mr. Charles Evans. Many know that know him know that he enjoys a good “go fo’ broke” like Peter from the Bible lol, but that bama is soft as cotton LOL!!!!! (I’ll get cussed out for that one lol…). But real talk, Charles will tell you that he is the descendent of Peter. And I wonder about that. Mrs. Verona, his mom, probably does too lol… Nonetheless, it is indeed a blessing to see another day, even more so, a new year of life. How many folks didn’t get the chance to see either? I know he is truly grateful for ONE MORE CHANCE. But one thing you can say about Charles, he has a heart for God and for the people of God and that is awesome.
It is indeed a blessing to know that there are people out there that will stand in the gap when needed. And Charles, hands down, is a true prayer warrior, a teacher, a true friend, and I’m proud to say my godbrother. In the last five years of my life, a transition has been taking place and Charles, along with others has been very instrumental in this process. Thank you. Like Charles, many of us have a heart to be a blessing to others. And like Charles, many of us can become exhausted from pouring into others and feeling that treatment is not always returned. We talk about this all the time and it can be rough, especially when you’ve been supportive of others and yet they turn a cold shoulder. But when it’s all said and done, the blessings still flow. It’s a blessing to be used by God to help others. Such a privilege and we should not take it lightly.
I enjoy a career in numbers (I’m a nerd with swagg LOL and Mike Render don’t say anything about Pretty Boy Swagg LOL!!!!), and so I wonder what the number 36 mean? Hmmm the mind ponders and then the mind says, “Fool, look it up lol”. The website, Christian Resources Today, gives a Biblical meaning of the number 36; Biblical Numerology Meaning: deals in reference in regards to a particular enemy or opposition.
Particular enemy or opposition. I pose a couple of questions. How many of us have been battling the same opposition for years on end? How many of us are dealing with opposition against ourselves? It’s especially challenging when you reach out to help others, but they don’t reach back to help you. You question yourself, wondering, why do what I do? What’s the point of sticking my neck out when it gets chopped off each time?
Opposition against the Bishop, naw lol… but real talk… there’s an enemy or opposition that is there, but with God, Mr. Evans has the authority and power to face and rebuke the opposition. Like him, we all have some opposition, especially when God has called us out and set us apart. Satan will use the devices and suggestions to make one think that they can’t make it or as a distraction. It can come in the form of family, friends, people on the job, church folks, and so on and so on. But here’s the key. Satan at one time was favored by God, but because of his arrogance and disobedience, he fell from the grace of God. He’s jealous, because God favors each of us and will pour into us; so long we stay committed in relationship with God.
Here a few things about Peter… I mean Charles lol… that we can learn from:
1. Charles is tall and so he can come off as someone to be intimidated by (well with the exception of his momma and me… whatever BATCH! LOL!) . But once you get to know him, he cool peeps. Say that to say, you can’t judge a book by its cover. There are those out there that will say, “Oh oh oh I’m gud, I’m gud” and know full well they bout to fall to pieces. There’s no need to put up the front. God already knows your heart. So if that’s you (putting up a front), do yourself a favor… stop…BREATHE!!!! And be real with yourself and God. After all He can change you if you want Him to.
2. Charles will preach you under the table and pray you out of a window. Yeah Bishop, I’m coming for you and WHAT?!?! Lol, I am so getting cussed out lol. But say that to say, it’s not enough to say you are Christian. Do you walk in it? Do you carry the Word in your heart?
3. Charles claims to be the descendent of Peter. I’ll give him that lol… and if you know about Peter… then yeah and that’s all I will say. But one thing about Peter; he meant what he said and said what he meant. Folks, be real with others. Especially if you are giving advice. Don’t tell people what they want to hear, tell them what they need to hear. Nine times out of ten, what they need to hear is what God has spoke to you about in reference to them or even yourself.
4. Lastly, Charles is a true friend. Kind of flows from #3. A true friend will tell it like it is… no sugarcoating. But will support you and pray for and with you. Sort of like Jesus Christ; a true friend to us all. If you have a true friend in the natural be thankful and pray for their health and strength in the Lord.
Mr. Evans: Well man, yes you made it. To God be the Glory. Charles, the enemy has tried his best to bring you down and yet like my sister, Monique, you are the comeback kid. All I will say is, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Walk in your ministry, your business (you know you need to stop faking and go ahead launch yo’ bizness CEO), and your life with God leading you… I love you Big Brother and may you have a blessed birthday…
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Lil’ Son Chronicles ~ The Perseverance Continues: My Testimony…
This morning I received an email about funeral services for one of my co-workers, George Crider. I didn’t know much about him, but after reading the obituary, it’s almost like knowing an old friend. George simply enjoyed life. All the activities he participated in, the impact he made on many; he truly was a blessing to his family and a whole host all around.
I think about that and I am reminded of my life. I am only 29, but there’s been so much that has occurred; good and bad. Next month is around the corner and will mark an anniversary of a turning point in my life that occurred 5 years ago. It was 5 years ago in August, that I wanted to commit suicide. I am reminded of the pain I felt. The tears I cried day in and out. The questions I would ask…. WHY? I can even remember debating, how would I do it? At that time, school was draining, Washington, DC was draining, my family was draining, and I was just going down really fast. For a while, my bandage was alcohol, weed, sex, and anything that would keep me from facing God and the fears. Guess it all came to head in June of that year (2005). I got some rough news about some personal things and furthermore, it was Father’s Day. I didn’t have my dad to talk to. I didn’t have him here with me to pray with and for me. I couldn’t hear my dad laugh anymore. Fast forward to August 2005, I was ready to end my life. And then God spoke to me in a dream by way of Dad. I remember it like yesterday. Dad had on a white suit, trimmed in gold. He never said anything; he just looked at me and smiled. There was such a peace on him that it immediate convicted me. And even though he didn’t say anything, his smile said it all. The Lord spoke to me and said, “You have so much to offer Vincent. I love you the most. Just trust me. Will you?”
As long as I live I will never forget that dream. It was a turning point in my life that I must say was the beginning of a new me. There are many that see me now and say, “Wow V, you are doing it man.” And I tell them, “Y’all it ain’t me, it’s God working in me.” Folks, I can not begin to tell you how grateful I am for this life. A life that at one time I took for granted. To know that if you just yield who you are unto God; that He will order the path way… to know that He will clean you up… to know that He loves you unconditionally. Amazing…
There was reason as to why Brother George Jerman gave me the line name back in 2003, “Perseverance …”. I wondered if he knew lol. But it goes so much deeper than Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.… It is what God is continuously shaping and molding me in, what He put in me as a baby, Perseverance. Complete, not lacking anything…. And with God leading, I never will go without.
Five years later, I stand stronger in the Lord. I am able to be a blessing to my nieces, godsons, family, and many by ministering what God has put in me. I am humble to hear from the Lord by way of Him and His children, my brothers and sisters in Christ. But most of all… I grateful that through God, I found me… Vincent.
THOUGHT: One of my favorite artists (as many know) is Dorinda Clark Cole. I identify with her, because she at one time wanted to commit suicide, but God intervened. She has two songs that I love so much, I’m Still Here and Make Me Real… Reflect back on your life. Think of all the times you wanted to give up… to end it all… and then look at yourself today. You are still here, by His Grace and Mercy.
Father God:
What can I say? Thank You. I ask of two things God. One; never let me go. Two; make me real…
In Jesus Name,
Amen
I think about that and I am reminded of my life. I am only 29, but there’s been so much that has occurred; good and bad. Next month is around the corner and will mark an anniversary of a turning point in my life that occurred 5 years ago. It was 5 years ago in August, that I wanted to commit suicide. I am reminded of the pain I felt. The tears I cried day in and out. The questions I would ask…. WHY? I can even remember debating, how would I do it? At that time, school was draining, Washington, DC was draining, my family was draining, and I was just going down really fast. For a while, my bandage was alcohol, weed, sex, and anything that would keep me from facing God and the fears. Guess it all came to head in June of that year (2005). I got some rough news about some personal things and furthermore, it was Father’s Day. I didn’t have my dad to talk to. I didn’t have him here with me to pray with and for me. I couldn’t hear my dad laugh anymore. Fast forward to August 2005, I was ready to end my life. And then God spoke to me in a dream by way of Dad. I remember it like yesterday. Dad had on a white suit, trimmed in gold. He never said anything; he just looked at me and smiled. There was such a peace on him that it immediate convicted me. And even though he didn’t say anything, his smile said it all. The Lord spoke to me and said, “You have so much to offer Vincent. I love you the most. Just trust me. Will you?”
As long as I live I will never forget that dream. It was a turning point in my life that I must say was the beginning of a new me. There are many that see me now and say, “Wow V, you are doing it man.” And I tell them, “Y’all it ain’t me, it’s God working in me.” Folks, I can not begin to tell you how grateful I am for this life. A life that at one time I took for granted. To know that if you just yield who you are unto God; that He will order the path way… to know that He will clean you up… to know that He loves you unconditionally. Amazing…
There was reason as to why Brother George Jerman gave me the line name back in 2003, “Perseverance …”. I wondered if he knew lol. But it goes so much deeper than Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.… It is what God is continuously shaping and molding me in, what He put in me as a baby, Perseverance. Complete, not lacking anything…. And with God leading, I never will go without.
Five years later, I stand stronger in the Lord. I am able to be a blessing to my nieces, godsons, family, and many by ministering what God has put in me. I am humble to hear from the Lord by way of Him and His children, my brothers and sisters in Christ. But most of all… I grateful that through God, I found me… Vincent.
THOUGHT: One of my favorite artists (as many know) is Dorinda Clark Cole. I identify with her, because she at one time wanted to commit suicide, but God intervened. She has two songs that I love so much, I’m Still Here and Make Me Real… Reflect back on your life. Think of all the times you wanted to give up… to end it all… and then look at yourself today. You are still here, by His Grace and Mercy.
Father God:
What can I say? Thank You. I ask of two things God. One; never let me go. Two; make me real…
In Jesus Name,
Amen
Monday, July 19, 2010
Lil' Son Chronicles ~ The Acknowledged Process...
The Process...
Inspired by Psalm 119...
"The Most Difficult Part in Change is to Start..."
For years we have been content with who we are. We are lawyers, business leaders, military personnel, ministers, musicians, authors and so on. That is all truly a blessing. But, yet we have something about ourselves that we would like to change. For some it's our attitude towards others; for others internal conflicts.
And then there are issues that haunt us over and over. In some cases, issues we brought on our own... other cases, issues that were forced upon us. When it's all said and done, we are left wondering, will there ever be a change?
When I first moved to DC, I was definitely in need of a change or rather a few changes. I'd just graduated from college, but was not ready for life. I couldn't drive, never had a job and worse of all lack the confidence a man of God should have. Initially I didn't even notice that I was in need of a change.
Many of us are like that. We don't realize that a change is needed. Satan for so long had our minds in one setting that to introduce a new way of thinking is almost absurd.
Here's how I see it though. In the first 22 years of my life, I've always assumed one way of living and that worked for me until I was 23 and realized life can really throw you around. I got to a point and had no explanation as to why and how I got to level in my life. But today at 29 (and might I add lookin gud at 29 lol!!!), I see that I got to that point in life through a process.
Many of us are going in one direction versus the other direction. And blindly we don't realize that we are going so far in the wrong direction due to a process. At some point and time we hit the dead end and realize that we have been going the wrong way and have no choice but to turn around pursue the right way or just sit there at the dead end.
But understand that God loves us. He wants for us to be lead by Him (the right direction). In order to do that we must also be led through a process. The difference now is that we see that it takes a process to get to the next level versus before when we were blind.
Thought: Change is rough, but worth it. The more we evolve, the higher our maturity climbs and the more open we are to what God has for us...
Father God:
I thank You for a new day. Another chance to make improvements and advance in Your Name. As difficult as it is Lord... help us all to see the mistakes that we've made; not as a downfall, but as a lesson to bless us in the present and future. Lord let the challenges that we've been dealt and have overcome be footsteps for the next person that may be connected to us. Lord, use and accept us as Your Vessels... pure and holy for Your Will. I bless Your Name for the process; for it is the process that sustains... maintains... and preserves us all. I bless Your Name for all that You have instore for Your Children.
I Believe and Receive it now...
In Jesus Christ...
Amen...
P.S. Don't forget to greet someone with a smile. It's easy to do and your smile can lead to another's breakthrough.
Inspired by Psalm 119...
"The Most Difficult Part in Change is to Start..."
For years we have been content with who we are. We are lawyers, business leaders, military personnel, ministers, musicians, authors and so on. That is all truly a blessing. But, yet we have something about ourselves that we would like to change. For some it's our attitude towards others; for others internal conflicts.
And then there are issues that haunt us over and over. In some cases, issues we brought on our own... other cases, issues that were forced upon us. When it's all said and done, we are left wondering, will there ever be a change?
When I first moved to DC, I was definitely in need of a change or rather a few changes. I'd just graduated from college, but was not ready for life. I couldn't drive, never had a job and worse of all lack the confidence a man of God should have. Initially I didn't even notice that I was in need of a change.
Many of us are like that. We don't realize that a change is needed. Satan for so long had our minds in one setting that to introduce a new way of thinking is almost absurd.
Here's how I see it though. In the first 22 years of my life, I've always assumed one way of living and that worked for me until I was 23 and realized life can really throw you around. I got to a point and had no explanation as to why and how I got to level in my life. But today at 29 (and might I add lookin gud at 29 lol!!!), I see that I got to that point in life through a process.
Many of us are going in one direction versus the other direction. And blindly we don't realize that we are going so far in the wrong direction due to a process. At some point and time we hit the dead end and realize that we have been going the wrong way and have no choice but to turn around pursue the right way or just sit there at the dead end.
But understand that God loves us. He wants for us to be lead by Him (the right direction). In order to do that we must also be led through a process. The difference now is that we see that it takes a process to get to the next level versus before when we were blind.
Thought: Change is rough, but worth it. The more we evolve, the higher our maturity climbs and the more open we are to what God has for us...
Father God:
I thank You for a new day. Another chance to make improvements and advance in Your Name. As difficult as it is Lord... help us all to see the mistakes that we've made; not as a downfall, but as a lesson to bless us in the present and future. Lord let the challenges that we've been dealt and have overcome be footsteps for the next person that may be connected to us. Lord, use and accept us as Your Vessels... pure and holy for Your Will. I bless Your Name for the process; for it is the process that sustains... maintains... and preserves us all. I bless Your Name for all that You have instore for Your Children.
I Believe and Receive it now...
In Jesus Christ...
Amen...
P.S. Don't forget to greet someone with a smile. It's easy to do and your smile can lead to another's breakthrough.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Lil’ Son Chronicles ~ From "K" Street To Narrow Path
Inspiration… Rahab…
If anyone from or been or live in DC you know all about "K" street...
Enjoy the entry!
I was asked to do a bit of research on this lady… and I must say interesting indeed… but here goes…
Amazing. Here we have a woman that demonstrates you cannot judge a book by its cover. Rahab, a prostitute, lived in Jericho. We all have heard of the story of how, the two spies sent by Joshua to scope out the land. Well somehow they ended up at Rahab. Now this is interesting, because one has to wonder, were the spies trying to get some even though they were sent on a job. Nonetheless, there was a Divine Detour… For you see, like all the people of Jericho… Rahab too heard about the coming of the end for her people.
Once again, she’s a prostitute. A career choice that is not looked upon highly as if one was a Senior Executive in the Federal Government. But she’s one that is considered low on the totem pole. So many things could have led her to this career choice, who knows. She has family, but one wonders also, do they associate her? But apparently she knew within herself, it wasn’t enough to be a whore. It wasn’t her true potential. And that came by way of conviction. She knew about the Israelites… the Red Sea, the destruction of Pharaoh, the Amorites and so forth. Jericho was scared… and that fear led to the leadership wanting to retaliate. But Rahab was convicted.
She for a moment probably thought about it…
I’m a whore… I sell my body to men… this is all I have to show for myself… and now I could possibly die. Is this how I want to be remembered?
Ole girl has a serious revelation… and because she knew that there was more. And so she hid the spies, for she knew why they were there. She also knew that if there was a God that could part a sea and do all of these things, then this God could change her; make her whole.
Point #1. Your condition is not your conclusion. Like Rahab, we all have done some things, say some things, been some places, did some folks. And it’s easy to sit and become guilty. But aren’t you glad; rather grateful, that when God looks at you, He doesn’t see the drug addict, He doesn’t see the whore, He doesn’t see the homosexual, He doesn’t the murderer… He sees His Creations… As Marvin Sapp said, He saw the Best In Me… You may come to God, a hot mess… But once you have an encounter with The Holy Spirit, something within desires that change…
Point #2. God is calling you… will you answer? A choice… a choice that we make every day we are blessed to see. The choice to cut someone off on the highway or simply speed up and get over… The choice to cuss somebody allllllll the wayyyyy outttt… or to simply pray for them. The choice to lay up with that person or see if this person is worth the wait. The choice to tell the truth, or to lie. The choice to face the demonic spirits, or to let them destroy you… All this and so much more… choices… How do you respond? Rahab had to make a choice. She knew why the men were there. And she could have easily handed them over. Who knows, had she did that, she might have been able to come up on a few levels… not rated a $2 Hoe… but maybe a woman with some class… but at what risk? Could she have then became a six-figure salary whore with the same issues and demonic spirits? But no, she chose to betray Jericho and protect the men. Why? Because of the conviction. When God speaks to us on certain areas of our lives, do we become convicted? And if so, do we immediately get on our knees to repent?
Point #3. Faith is essential when you answer to God’s call. You were called by God, that you would be a business owner, a counselor, a minster, or a doctor, whatever. Oh the excitement to know that God told you that you would be this or that. We get so lost in that and forget that it’s a privilege. More so, it’s still a process… In Exodus 23, God lets it be known, I will bring my people out of Pharaoh’s bondage. I will led them to the Promised Land… God declared this, before it manifested itself in the physical. Granted they couldn’t see immediately, but they had to trust and exercise their faith in God. Rahab too, had to put her faith in God. She’s lived a life of the immoral. She’s aware of the impending destruction. She wants more for herself than this lifestyle. She wants more for her family. Many will look down on you. Call you everything but a child of God. Sometimes things happened and yet the Lord says it’s temporary, just trust me… and that can be such a challenge. But when God speaks into you about what He will do in you and through you… you must take it as it is and let your faith work…
Hmmm, amazing. From this woman, who was considered an outcast, has been restored and not by man, but by God. And because of her faith, the Israelites were able to take the land. Because of her faith, her household and family were spared… because of her faith, she was made whole.
THOUGHT: There’s the saying that you can’t turn a hoe into a housewife. Well, point proved wrong. When God intervenes, anything is possible. An outcast, rejected by so many, abandoned by those that “love” you, But God. But God said that you are Justified… and like Rahab, you can change… today’s a good time to start.
If anyone from or been or live in DC you know all about "K" street...
Enjoy the entry!
I was asked to do a bit of research on this lady… and I must say interesting indeed… but here goes…
Amazing. Here we have a woman that demonstrates you cannot judge a book by its cover. Rahab, a prostitute, lived in Jericho. We all have heard of the story of how, the two spies sent by Joshua to scope out the land. Well somehow they ended up at Rahab. Now this is interesting, because one has to wonder, were the spies trying to get some even though they were sent on a job. Nonetheless, there was a Divine Detour… For you see, like all the people of Jericho… Rahab too heard about the coming of the end for her people.
Once again, she’s a prostitute. A career choice that is not looked upon highly as if one was a Senior Executive in the Federal Government. But she’s one that is considered low on the totem pole. So many things could have led her to this career choice, who knows. She has family, but one wonders also, do they associate her? But apparently she knew within herself, it wasn’t enough to be a whore. It wasn’t her true potential. And that came by way of conviction. She knew about the Israelites… the Red Sea, the destruction of Pharaoh, the Amorites and so forth. Jericho was scared… and that fear led to the leadership wanting to retaliate. But Rahab was convicted.
She for a moment probably thought about it…
I’m a whore… I sell my body to men… this is all I have to show for myself… and now I could possibly die. Is this how I want to be remembered?
Ole girl has a serious revelation… and because she knew that there was more. And so she hid the spies, for she knew why they were there. She also knew that if there was a God that could part a sea and do all of these things, then this God could change her; make her whole.
Point #1. Your condition is not your conclusion. Like Rahab, we all have done some things, say some things, been some places, did some folks. And it’s easy to sit and become guilty. But aren’t you glad; rather grateful, that when God looks at you, He doesn’t see the drug addict, He doesn’t see the whore, He doesn’t see the homosexual, He doesn’t the murderer… He sees His Creations… As Marvin Sapp said, He saw the Best In Me… You may come to God, a hot mess… But once you have an encounter with The Holy Spirit, something within desires that change…
Point #2. God is calling you… will you answer? A choice… a choice that we make every day we are blessed to see. The choice to cut someone off on the highway or simply speed up and get over… The choice to cuss somebody allllllll the wayyyyy outttt… or to simply pray for them. The choice to lay up with that person or see if this person is worth the wait. The choice to tell the truth, or to lie. The choice to face the demonic spirits, or to let them destroy you… All this and so much more… choices… How do you respond? Rahab had to make a choice. She knew why the men were there. And she could have easily handed them over. Who knows, had she did that, she might have been able to come up on a few levels… not rated a $2 Hoe… but maybe a woman with some class… but at what risk? Could she have then became a six-figure salary whore with the same issues and demonic spirits? But no, she chose to betray Jericho and protect the men. Why? Because of the conviction. When God speaks to us on certain areas of our lives, do we become convicted? And if so, do we immediately get on our knees to repent?
Point #3. Faith is essential when you answer to God’s call. You were called by God, that you would be a business owner, a counselor, a minster, or a doctor, whatever. Oh the excitement to know that God told you that you would be this or that. We get so lost in that and forget that it’s a privilege. More so, it’s still a process… In Exodus 23, God lets it be known, I will bring my people out of Pharaoh’s bondage. I will led them to the Promised Land… God declared this, before it manifested itself in the physical. Granted they couldn’t see immediately, but they had to trust and exercise their faith in God. Rahab too, had to put her faith in God. She’s lived a life of the immoral. She’s aware of the impending destruction. She wants more for herself than this lifestyle. She wants more for her family. Many will look down on you. Call you everything but a child of God. Sometimes things happened and yet the Lord says it’s temporary, just trust me… and that can be such a challenge. But when God speaks into you about what He will do in you and through you… you must take it as it is and let your faith work…
Hmmm, amazing. From this woman, who was considered an outcast, has been restored and not by man, but by God. And because of her faith, the Israelites were able to take the land. Because of her faith, her household and family were spared… because of her faith, she was made whole.
THOUGHT: There’s the saying that you can’t turn a hoe into a housewife. Well, point proved wrong. When God intervenes, anything is possible. An outcast, rejected by so many, abandoned by those that “love” you, But God. But God said that you are Justified… and like Rahab, you can change… today’s a good time to start.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Lil’ Son Chronicles – Living Purpose…
Starting today through the next 13 weeks, I will have a unique experience. Today I will start a class at my church that I am excited and a little nervous about. This isn’t the typical statistics, physics, or economics class. This course will touch on something more than all the theoretical reasoning. I pray Living Purpose, the title of the course, will bring forth a deeper understand of who God is in my life and make me even more transparent to Him, His Children, and myself. This is the second time this class has been offered by the church and initially I was too nervous to sign up because I didn’t know what to expect. This time around, still nervous, but I hear God saying, “What do you have to lose? If anything, you will gain so much. Just take that first step.” And so that’s what I’m doing.
I am debating on keeping a journal for the next 13 weeks on the progression during this course. Still nervous, but more excited because I know God is with me. I also know that there will be some things that will be revealed to me; both past and present, that can only help me to grow. More so, I pray that I will become an effective vessel for God to use to bless others. And that’s pretty cool.
There are few scriptures that I’ve read and/or came to mind when discussion of this course came back. Matthew 4:4, Proverbs, chapters 1 & 2, Psalm 139, Deuteronomy, chapters 28-31, and my motto… James 1:3-4. I definitely want to maximize the most out this class, but at the same time be humbled by what is being said and open to God.
I can recall, starting at the age of 16, I would pray to God for a closer walk. Seem like I would pray this prayer for years on end. Even with all that was going on, that was my request. Amazing, because at the time I made this request, everything seem to be going wrong. Today; however, I make this request, because the relationship with God is always growing. God always does His part in this connection, and yet we don’t always do our part. I thank God that I am making a better effort to do my part. Now, I am becoming conscience that I can be an asset or a hindrance. And that’s based on doing my part in relationship with God.
THOUGHT: I’ll make a plea to you all. Submit who you are to God. It’s not easy. There will be tears. There will be times when you want to give up. But fear the Lord your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name. Deuteronomy 10:20 (NIV). Always know that He is with you and will give you the grace to deal with the tough issues. Know that the past hurts and trials don’t have authority over you. If you are willing to submit unto the Lord and face the trials you will come out stronger than before, “because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything”, James 1:3-4 (NIV).
I am debating on keeping a journal for the next 13 weeks on the progression during this course. Still nervous, but more excited because I know God is with me. I also know that there will be some things that will be revealed to me; both past and present, that can only help me to grow. More so, I pray that I will become an effective vessel for God to use to bless others. And that’s pretty cool.
There are few scriptures that I’ve read and/or came to mind when discussion of this course came back. Matthew 4:4, Proverbs, chapters 1 & 2, Psalm 139, Deuteronomy, chapters 28-31, and my motto… James 1:3-4. I definitely want to maximize the most out this class, but at the same time be humbled by what is being said and open to God.
I can recall, starting at the age of 16, I would pray to God for a closer walk. Seem like I would pray this prayer for years on end. Even with all that was going on, that was my request. Amazing, because at the time I made this request, everything seem to be going wrong. Today; however, I make this request, because the relationship with God is always growing. God always does His part in this connection, and yet we don’t always do our part. I thank God that I am making a better effort to do my part. Now, I am becoming conscience that I can be an asset or a hindrance. And that’s based on doing my part in relationship with God.
THOUGHT: I’ll make a plea to you all. Submit who you are to God. It’s not easy. There will be tears. There will be times when you want to give up. But fear the Lord your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name. Deuteronomy 10:20 (NIV). Always know that He is with you and will give you the grace to deal with the tough issues. Know that the past hurts and trials don’t have authority over you. If you are willing to submit unto the Lord and face the trials you will come out stronger than before, “because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything”, James 1:3-4 (NIV).
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Lil’ Son Chronicles ~ Goals & Deterrents...
1 Timothy 6
11-12 But you, Timothy, man of God: Run for your life from all this. Pursue a righteous life—a life of wonder, faith, love, steadiness, courtesy. Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses.
From before, we learned that God will choose you even when you don’t possess the credentials to perform the task at hand. Many of us become scared by the task for the fact that we’ve never performed it before. But why is that the case? Could it be deeper than that?
The fear of doing something new is natural. It causes one to step out of their “norm” into the unknown. But that can be fairly easy to combat. But what if there is more than fear that holds you back... say addictions, people, the past...
Deep inside we have desires that line up with God’s plan and we can do it and more. Be aware that Satan too knows this, as well as your human self. And so, you set out with the best intentions to make benchmarks and reach goals, and yet the chick from your past that caused you drama comes back around. She talks the game and says all the right things. And like that you fall for it. You are going forward, but yo’ boys talking about going out and you know that alcohol will be waiting for you. Yet you are a recovering alcoholic. You are in the process of finishing school, a project, seeking God more, and because of a series of events, you left wondering do you truly have what it takes...
But think about it... Paul, at one time prosecuted Christians. He killed people, called them out and so on. And yet God chose him. And while the fear of new journey was approaching, Paul said yes.
Point #1. Spirit of Love is empowering. Let’s be real. We can be trifling at times. Call each other everything but a child of God. There are those that have molested children, murdered people, and stolen retirement from older folks. And we are quick to say, “They deserve what they get.” But wait... and forgive me (but yo’ **** stank like the next). You done wrong too... There’s no degree of sin... A sin is a sin is a sin... and Jesus’ blood covers it all. Even if we have committed sins, if we make the decision to yield to Christ... God will forgive and His Love will empower one to make a change and to progress to new levels...
Point #2. You can’t truly be delivered until you can testify. Paul taught us this from time to time.
Acts 26 (The Message)
9-11 "I admit that I didn't always hold to this position. For a time I thought it was my duty to oppose this Jesus of Nazareth with all my might. Backed with the full authority of the high priests, I threw these believers—I had no idea they were God's people!—into the Jerusalem jail right and left, and whenever it came to a vote, I voted for their execution. I stormed through their meeting places, bullying them into cursing Jesus, a one-man terror obsessed with obliterating these people. And then I started on the towns outside Jerusalem.
Here Paul let us know that hey, I haven’t always been in position for God. Like him, we haven’t always been in position as well. And because of that, we should never forget where we come and be willing to share our story with others. It was one thing for me to deal with the thoughts of suicide, and I’m sooo grateful brought me through that time, but I didn’t truly start to be delivered until I was able to share my testimony with others. Not only did others start to become free, but I realized that my strength in God was growing. I was able to do something that I never imagined. If you do have a testimony, please share it. It will help others and yourself as well.
Point #3. Handle the deterrents quickly. Distractions seem to always arise when you start to make steps toward goals. And what’s funny about distractions, most are slow and gradual. So initially you think, “Oh it’s not major, I can handle it.” But in reality, bit by bit you are being pulled away from road less traveled.
1 Corinthians 10:12-13 (The Message)
11-12These are all warning markers—danger!—in our history books, written down so that we don't repeat their mistakes. Our positions in the story are parallel—they at the beginning, we at the end—and we are just as capable of messing it up as they were. Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence.
13No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it.
If you know that there are distractions that will lead you astray... avoid them at all cost. You know on the caller ID that person means no good... don’t pick up the phone. You know you have issues with drinking... don’t go out where alcohol is at. You know you have a shopping addiction, find other venues in where you can avoid spending money frivolously. Do it and do it fast...
THOUGHT: If God is calling you to the mission... submit to Him. And while the deterrents will come about, know that the goals God has set for you are attainable. As long as you make the effort to stay focused on God... you can’t go wrong...
Vincent A. Davis, Jr.
Wanna stay connected?
http://facebook.com/lil.son.productions81
or follow me on Twitter @PerPsiVerance
11-12 But you, Timothy, man of God: Run for your life from all this. Pursue a righteous life—a life of wonder, faith, love, steadiness, courtesy. Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses.
From before, we learned that God will choose you even when you don’t possess the credentials to perform the task at hand. Many of us become scared by the task for the fact that we’ve never performed it before. But why is that the case? Could it be deeper than that?
The fear of doing something new is natural. It causes one to step out of their “norm” into the unknown. But that can be fairly easy to combat. But what if there is more than fear that holds you back... say addictions, people, the past...
Deep inside we have desires that line up with God’s plan and we can do it and more. Be aware that Satan too knows this, as well as your human self. And so, you set out with the best intentions to make benchmarks and reach goals, and yet the chick from your past that caused you drama comes back around. She talks the game and says all the right things. And like that you fall for it. You are going forward, but yo’ boys talking about going out and you know that alcohol will be waiting for you. Yet you are a recovering alcoholic. You are in the process of finishing school, a project, seeking God more, and because of a series of events, you left wondering do you truly have what it takes...
But think about it... Paul, at one time prosecuted Christians. He killed people, called them out and so on. And yet God chose him. And while the fear of new journey was approaching, Paul said yes.
Point #1. Spirit of Love is empowering. Let’s be real. We can be trifling at times. Call each other everything but a child of God. There are those that have molested children, murdered people, and stolen retirement from older folks. And we are quick to say, “They deserve what they get.” But wait... and forgive me (but yo’ **** stank like the next). You done wrong too... There’s no degree of sin... A sin is a sin is a sin... and Jesus’ blood covers it all. Even if we have committed sins, if we make the decision to yield to Christ... God will forgive and His Love will empower one to make a change and to progress to new levels...
Point #2. You can’t truly be delivered until you can testify. Paul taught us this from time to time.
Acts 26 (The Message)
9-11 "I admit that I didn't always hold to this position. For a time I thought it was my duty to oppose this Jesus of Nazareth with all my might. Backed with the full authority of the high priests, I threw these believers—I had no idea they were God's people!—into the Jerusalem jail right and left, and whenever it came to a vote, I voted for their execution. I stormed through their meeting places, bullying them into cursing Jesus, a one-man terror obsessed with obliterating these people. And then I started on the towns outside Jerusalem.
Here Paul let us know that hey, I haven’t always been in position for God. Like him, we haven’t always been in position as well. And because of that, we should never forget where we come and be willing to share our story with others. It was one thing for me to deal with the thoughts of suicide, and I’m sooo grateful brought me through that time, but I didn’t truly start to be delivered until I was able to share my testimony with others. Not only did others start to become free, but I realized that my strength in God was growing. I was able to do something that I never imagined. If you do have a testimony, please share it. It will help others and yourself as well.
Point #3. Handle the deterrents quickly. Distractions seem to always arise when you start to make steps toward goals. And what’s funny about distractions, most are slow and gradual. So initially you think, “Oh it’s not major, I can handle it.” But in reality, bit by bit you are being pulled away from road less traveled.
1 Corinthians 10:12-13 (The Message)
11-12These are all warning markers—danger!—in our history books, written down so that we don't repeat their mistakes. Our positions in the story are parallel—they at the beginning, we at the end—and we are just as capable of messing it up as they were. Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence.
13No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it.
If you know that there are distractions that will lead you astray... avoid them at all cost. You know on the caller ID that person means no good... don’t pick up the phone. You know you have issues with drinking... don’t go out where alcohol is at. You know you have a shopping addiction, find other venues in where you can avoid spending money frivolously. Do it and do it fast...
THOUGHT: If God is calling you to the mission... submit to Him. And while the deterrents will come about, know that the goals God has set for you are attainable. As long as you make the effort to stay focused on God... you can’t go wrong...
Vincent A. Davis, Jr.
Wanna stay connected?
http://facebook.com/lil.son.productions81
or follow me on Twitter @PerPsiVerance
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Lil’ Son Chronicles ~ The Initiative…
In all the complaining we do, can we stop and realize that we still here by God’s Grace & Mercy? Do we get that wrapped up in our issues, that we only talk the Christian lifestyle, but don’t put it to action? When does one get tired of the same conversation and same issues to say enough is enough? When does one take the initiative to do more? To trust God?
The word, Initiative, means the first step in a process that, once taken, determines subsequent events….
It’s a process that got you to the level of depression. It’s a process that you to a jacked up credit. It’s a process that got one believing that to make money, you gotta go hustle. Something led you to a point that taking a swing on a woman was the way to prove your manhood. Sure you stroked her real good, but what will you do when she says that she’s late? How Common Sense say it, “$315.00 worth yo’ soul?”
Folks when we are at breaking points, for a minute, stop. You want the deliverance, the breakthrough, but the suffering didn’t come over night. And neither will the breakthrough. It’s a process that got you to the low state and it will be a process that you get you to prosperity in Christ. Once you understand that, then and only then are you ready to take the initiative to change. Don’t believe me… let’s go to the Word.
Hebrews 12 (The Message Bible)
Discipline in a Long-Distance Race
1-3Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!
THOUGHT: Today is a great day to start… won’t you try? Your eternity is connected to it…
The word, Initiative, means the first step in a process that, once taken, determines subsequent events….
It’s a process that got you to the level of depression. It’s a process that you to a jacked up credit. It’s a process that got one believing that to make money, you gotta go hustle. Something led you to a point that taking a swing on a woman was the way to prove your manhood. Sure you stroked her real good, but what will you do when she says that she’s late? How Common Sense say it, “$315.00 worth yo’ soul?”
Folks when we are at breaking points, for a minute, stop. You want the deliverance, the breakthrough, but the suffering didn’t come over night. And neither will the breakthrough. It’s a process that got you to the low state and it will be a process that you get you to prosperity in Christ. Once you understand that, then and only then are you ready to take the initiative to change. Don’t believe me… let’s go to the Word.
Hebrews 12 (The Message Bible)
Discipline in a Long-Distance Race
1-3Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!
THOUGHT: Today is a great day to start… won’t you try? Your eternity is connected to it…
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