Why You Salty? Have You Counted the Cost of Commitment to Jesus? Are You Willing and Able? What Cost Are You Counting?

Boy, I tell you when you go to God and tell him all your troubles he is listening and will help you, if you let him. How do I know? Because yesterday I was on the brink of giving up, hanging by the thread on a “do me wrong” cliff and told God I no longer wanted to be a Christian. He laughed at me and said, “My dear child I understand but that will not change who I am.”

I cried out to God like I had never before because I was desperate and needed him. This morning he answered my prayers immediately. Forgive me for the long post. Can you relate?

For reasons I can never explain, I woke this morning with an instinct to read my Bible unlike months before when I didn’t have no desire whatsoever to read the word of God and He took me to the Book of Luke, chapter 14. So many answers to my questions were made available and God gave me a revelation! I finally figured out why I am having so much trouble in my spiritual walk and not understanding what it means to be a Christian.

While reading the Book of Luke chapter 14 I saw this question in the notes, “How salty are you?” and I asked myself, “Joy, why are you salty?” “Did you count the cost of commitment to Jesus?” No, I never did. I gave my life to him and never questioned the cost of what it took to be a follower of Christ.

“How salty are you?” My answer will astound you. I am salty but not in the way you would expect. I have been frustrated, mad, and irritated with myself and with God because it didn’t feel like he was with me while going through what felt like too many trials. I took my frustrations out on myself and starting looking at my past mistakes that are gone and I can do nothing about. I started having a pity party all by myself and wanted someone, anyone to feel sorry for me. Yesterday, I realized this was and will not work for me.

What do you know about salt? Well, salt loses its flavor when it becomes wet and then dries, leaving a tasteless residue. Much like us. When we blend in with the world and are in the world and not of it, we lose our saltiness and become worthless. This was me. For months I started losing myself in the process focusing on the wrong things and not the right things of God and couldn’t figure out why. I was miserable.

See, for months I have been in a downward spiral of emotions and feelings about life, the loss of my mother, and being a Christian. I found myself daily telling God, “I don’t want to be a Christian anymore because it’s too hard.” I chose to settle to average. I wasn’t willing to plan, sacrifice, and keep my commitment to Christ’s kingdom. I failed God daily in representing Christ in the world. I kept looking at why all the wrong things were happening in my life. I took my focus off God and started looking at my circumstances, heavily. While I know Jesus paid the price, I never looked at the cost of living my life as a believer.

Have you ever never counted the cost of your commitment to Christ? I have. I never counted the cost of what it takes to be a Christian. I just became one. I never counted the cost of what it takes to live a Christian life. I failed miserably at living one. I never counted the cost of what it takes to run a business. I had an idea and ran with it never estimating the cost to successfully run a business. I never counted the cost of what it takes to publish a book. I just wrote what took twelve years to publish but never imagine the cost, people, and things I would lose in the process. I never counted the cost of what it takes to suffer the consequences of my decisions. Simply put, I NEVER COUNTED THE COST of my life as a Christian!

God never said we would not have trouble. He said he would be with us and never leave us when we have trouble. It cost to be a follower of Christ. It will not be trouble-free. You are going to lose some things; friends, family, and material possessions. I lost all of these. Friends left me. I lost all my possessions and some family too. I met with disappointment. I survived it.

You may lose your social status, your financial standing or wealth. Lost that too. The people I thought would support my dreams didn’t and the ones I thought mattered failed me. You will have to give up control of some things; your time, your money, or your career. Gave that up too. Lost my job, my health was affected, and my money has been funny ever since. All for the cost of my commitment to Jesus.
Anything we do in life comes with a price, at a cost. But must we never forget, Jesus paid a hefty price when he gave his life and died on the cross for us that we may have eternal life. Now ain’t that love!!

Be blessed! – JD

Matthew 5:13-15 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. 14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.” (ESV)

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The Devil Doesn’t Fight Fair. He’s Consistent. So…You Got This. Have Audacious Faith. Go Gangster, Go Hard For God. Drive The Devil Crazy!

The devil is a liar! Sometimes you gotta go gangster on him and go hard for God! Be on fire for God! Don’t believe the lies of the enemy. Speak those things that are not as though they are. In your busyness, get your priorities straight. Be about your Father’s business.

Distractions can become mind blowing and will cause us to lose our witness for God. We start thinking about our situation, circumstances, and all the things we see in this world that really do not have a thing to do with us. The battle is not ours, it’s the Lord’s. He will take care of it. He promise.

If we profess God is in control of everything in the earth, why do we worry or lose faith? We begin to lose the very things the world didn’t give to us, joy, peace, and the peace of God. Then we wonder why nothing in our life is going right. When in fact it is if we look to the source, God, and don’t take our eyes off him even for a second.

The mind is the devil’s playground. When he pressures you to come out and play, rebuke that spirit! The joy you have the world didn’t give it to you. The world can’t take it away. Stay in the faith.

When you find yourself going in circles, depressed, weary, and distracted from the promises of God, get your mind right. Go back to what’s familiar. The Word of God never changes. It’s available to you. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is always, always with you.

No matter what comes your way, press, press, press towards the mark of the High calling even when you don’t feel like it. Never give up. Don’t stop praying. Don’t stop meditating on the word of God. Don’t stop doing what he’s called you to do because you are so frustrated and want to give up. It’s just a trick of the enemy.

Yes, there will be times when it is absolutely necessary to go in your prayer closet or your private space and call on God. Spend alone time with him and him alone and move from the distractions of social media and all things that will divert your attention from the right things of God. Do not set your eyes on anything that is worthless (Psalm 101:3).

God has a plan and you are a part of it. Keep your mind stayed on Jesus! Go gangster, go hard for God. Put that audacious faith to work. The devil is the father of lies and the truth ain’t in him. Believe it’s already done! God said it. I believe it. That settles it!

Be blessed! – JD

1 Thessalonians 2:13 “And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers” (ESV).

How Many Friends Do You Really Have Or Are You Really Friends With? Real Ones? Or Superficial Acquaintances? Are You Really a Friend of Jesus?

Something to think about:

Oftentimes we confuse true friendships based on the number of people we “know” or the ones who influence us the most, or even ones we have known for a lifetime and have been through the fire with. This by no means is an indication of who your true, real friends are. Check your circle.

Social media lets you “friend” just about anyone and everything you want. Choose your friends wisely. Be careful who you call a friend or who you really are friends with. Everybody is not your friend. Once upon a time you didn’t even know them.

Think about this, would Jesus call you a friend knowing the person you are? Do you love one another as He loves us? “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends…These things I command you, that you love one another” (John 15:12 – 13, 17 ESV).

Do you obey his commandments? “You are my friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:14 ESV). Do you understand the truths he has revealed to us from the Father? By the Holy Spirit in the word of God? “No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you” (John 15:15 ESV). Are you seeking to do these things when you call Jesus your friend?

Stop calling everybody your friend just because you know them. Many people you know are only acquaintances. It is better to have one friend who you call a true friend than to have many of superficial acquaintances. True friends stick by you in good times and bad. They will listen, care, and offer help when it is needed. They will not judge you or constantly remind you of who you used to be. They will celebrate who you are and love you unconditionally as you are. Jesus love us, no matter what we’ve done. Yes, Jesus loves us!

Would Jesus call you His friend? Yes he would, if you are loving others, if you are seeking to obey his command as he desires, and if you are developing an understanding of the truths revealed by the Holy Spirit in God’s Word. Ask yourself these questions, answer them and you will know if Jesus calls you His friend.

The Bible says “there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother,” not everybody on social media. Stop calling everybody your friend. Some are superficial acquaintances. “What a FRIEND we have in Jesus.” Know the difference.

Be blessed! – JD

James 2:23 “And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God” (ESV).

Stop It! Social Media Is Not Going To Solve Your Problems. Tell God. Stop Telling The World All Your Business!

The Bible says surrender your problems to God and not to everybody on social media!

Stop telling everybody your business or exposing your problems to them. Bring it to God. Give it to him and leave there.

Thank you. And you’re welcome.

Be blessed! – JD

Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

#randomthought#stoptellingyoursecrets #morningthought #itsonmymind #wordofadvice #quote#quotestags

Has Satan Confronted You Today? What Are You Wearing? The Full Armor of God or Your Bad Attitude at the Complaint Window?

Have you sharpened your sword today with the word of God? To counter against the attacks of the enemy? Not just by knowing or quoting a verse but reading Scripture daily and applying it to your life? Do you have faith in God’s promises even though Satan also knows Scripture and is clever at twisting God’s Word to suit his purpose? Are you ready?

What we know about Satan, he is consistent. He constantly fights against God and never misses an opportunity to fight against those who follow and obey God. He never misses a moment to devour, distract, and destroy your witness. You got to stay ready.

The Word of God is the only offensive and effective weapon to fight against the silly antics of the devil. Put on the full armor of God. Stand your ground. Stand on the word! Buckle your waist with the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, fit your feet and stay ready with what comes from the gospel of peace. “Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:13-17). Don’t give in or give up. Pray without ceasing!

Throughout our ministry, in our circumstances and our situation, and life we will constantly be confronted by Satan to make us change our minds about God’s promises. We need to constantly be on guard against the enemy’s attacks knowing they are not “a once and for all” occurrence. They don’t happen and then stop for good. They are ongoing. Satan will not stop coming after you or resist the opportunity to make you question what you know to be true about God so that he can get you to do what he wants. Rebuke that spirit! Come against, condemn every lying tongue that shall rise against you in judgment. No weapon formed against you shall prosper!

Be blessed! – JD

Ephesians 6:11, 12 “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹²For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (NIV)

What Are You Waiting For? Waiting On? When Are You Just Going To Do It?!!

What do you do when you find yourself waiting on special conditions to begin something that may never come because you are waiting on something to happen that may never exist? Time waits for no one or nothing. We’ve got to be ready for whatever comes.

Oftentimes we sit and wonder about things we desire to do but believe we need the perfect time or the perfect resources to do it with. We are waiting on the perfect time and place to realize our dreams or put into action the very things we are believing God for when in actuality, it may never happen because we put conditions on God and what he will and can do.

As such, if we wait for a perfect time and place to accomplish anything the time will never be right to do it. If we wait for the perfect time to read our Bible, we’ll never begin if it’s not the second thing we do after prayer. If we wait for the perfect time to start our ministry we will never serve. If we wait for the perfect opportunity to grow, we will never mature. What are we waiting for? The perfect time may never come because the perfect time does not exist.

Stop looking for the perfect time to do something, and just do it!

Be blessed! – JD

Ecclesiastes 11:4 “If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.” [a] (TLB)

Footnotes: Ecclesiastes 11:4 If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done, literally, “He that observeth the wind shall not sow, and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.”

Stop Asking God for Stuff You’re Not Supposed to Have! Whatever You Are Believing God For, If It Doesn’t Come From Him, You Don’t Want It!

God gives us gifts for free that cannot be earned. He did not give it to us for our own benefit. Your gift is to be used to glorify God. Let that marinate for a second.

Oftentimes we hear others profess, “your gift will make room for you” (Proverbs 18:16) but do you really know what it means to you and the vision God has given you to fulfill his purpose on this earth that he may be glorified? Here’s my thoughts:

Every person on this earth has a gift or talent God has put inside you that the world will make room for. It will enable you to fulfill your vision. A way will be made for you in your life. But in order for it to do these things, you have to exercise the gift. It cannot lay dormant while you wait for something to happen just because God gave it to you. He expects you to do something with it.

When you put to use the gift God has given you to fulfill your vision he gave you, you will find true contentment, purpose, and fulfillment in the work you have been called to do to build God’s kingdom. Every good and perfect gift is from above. Whatever you are meant to have, God will send it.

What do you do when you know you have a gift from God and you’ve worked every area of your gift only to find you are not seeing any results? Do you believe, “your gift will make room for you” when you’ve ran out of room to exercise your gift because you keep doing things your way and not God’s way?

The Bible does not tell us the cars we drive, the education we have acquired, the houses we own, shoes or clothes we wear, looks we have been blessed with, or the titles we hold will make room for us. But the “GIFT” does. Society wants us to believe these things are the key to our success, when in fact it can have the opposite effect. Change your perspective. Think on this.

God’s ways are not our ways. His thoughts are not our thoughts. If you are not exercising your gift in alignment to his word, his way, and his will, the idea of what the world believes is success will never happen the way God intended. Your GIFT is the key to your success. Get out the “my way of thinking and wanting what I want box” and develop your gift, discover it, and manifest it.

Suppose you took a moment and reflected on all the things you are good at, things you are passionate about, and talents you were blessed with to help, bless, or inspire others. Do you think it was by your own merit these things were given to you to use for your own benefit? Or do you believe it was because God was behind it and blessed you with what he imparted inside you before you were even thought of or born to serve others? Thank you and you’re welcome to leave your answers in the comments.

Yes, your gift will make room for you but you have to exercise your gift. Don’t do what people tell you to do or do what they do because you think it will bring you lots of money. Do what you were born to do that you may be edified, God will be glorified, and the devil will be petrified! Use your gifts to build God’s kingdom.

Repeat after me, “God, whatever it is I am believing you for if it doesn’t come from above, I don’t want it! Return it back to the sender, unsigned, sealed, and undelivered. I want whatever you send God because you sent it!”

God you are good and your mercies endure forever. Your greatness is unsearchable. When I can’t trace you God, I trust you.

Be blessed! –JD

Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (NIV)

May is not over yet. Happy Fibromyalgia Awareness Month to all my Fibro Warriors!

Please forgive me for being late with my post to celebrate May is Fibromyalgia Awareness Month. I am thankful the month is not over and I haven’t missed it. As a person who suffers daily with symptoms associated with this “invisible disease” and consider myself a “silent” advocate and warrior, I would be remiss not to celebrate and inspire my fellow Fibromyalgia warriors. Happy Fibromyalgia Awareness Month!

This year I decided to do things a little different and rather than just celebrating the month of May in honor of Fibromyalgia, I want to share information on what is Fibromyalgia and its symptoms to educate others and those who wonder why we celebrate Fibromyalgia Awareness Month. In a small yet meaningful way, it is an opportunity to enlighten others on what we as fibro warriors go through every day when dealing with its symptoms. I promise I will be brief. *smile*

Fibromyalgia Awareness Month to me, is so important because it is considered one of the most seriously misunderstood diseases. Why? Glad you asked. Because it can be very difficult to explain why many sufferers, including men and women, do not “look sick” but are, and how it affects us when dealing with constant chronic pain, fatigue, and the fibro fog.

So, what is fibromyalgia? Glad you asked, again. The list can be exhaustive so I didn’t list everything but you’re welcome to visit the links for more information. Here’s a portion of a broad summary of the symptoms by The Mayo Clinic taken from http://www.fibromyalgiatreating.com/you-have-fibromyalgia/ and Lyrica.com taken from https://www.lyrica.com/fibromyalgia/managing-fibromyalgia-pain which include:

Widespread pain – this is typically characterized by a dull ache that lasts for at least three months. Fatigue – If a patient with fibromyalgia can sleep at night (insomnia is very common), they frequently wake during sleeping hours due to pain. No sleep or poor sleep causes fatigue during waking hours and can make it difficult to function and focus. “Fibro fog” – Cognitive impairments such as difficulty concentrating on mental tasks, feeling “hazy,” or the inability to think clearly. Other problems – Anxiety, depression, migraine headaches, and conditions that fall into the “other” category that include abdominal cramping, burning sensations either on the skin or from within, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), intense itching, muscle and joint pain, as well as hypersensitivity to pain, medications, cold weather, foods, physical touch, and more.

Fibromyalgia affects more than 5 million women and men in the United States (lyrica.com). And although it is a so-called “Invisible disease,” the pain is real and is not all in our heads. Sharing a kind word, spreading love, or checking on a friend or loved one who suffers with this debilitating disease will go a long way. Be intentional. Make a difference.

Now for the fun part, if you have a moment please share your thoughts, in love, in the comments below in honor of someone you may know who suffers with fibromyalgia or say “hello” to your fellow fibro warrior(s) and let them know you are here for them.

Happy Fibromyalgia Awareness Day!

Be blessed! – JD

What if… ???

What if God treated you the same way you treated others with animosity, bitterness, resentment, hatred, and disrespect when you get offended, are simple-minded, inconsiderate, unthoughtful, and unloving?

What if God stopped speaking to you, stopped loving you, and looked down on you because you made one mistake, you don’t fit in his circle, or you failed him on a regular?

What if God didn’t forgive you or care about you at all because you’re a hot mess, you’re not worth his time, you’re useless, and don’t deserve his attention?

What if he wasn’t the loving, forgiving, sovereign, faithful, wonderful, marvelous, counselor, friend, he will always be? Think about it and then tell me where or who would you be?

Be blessed! – JD

Romans 8:31 “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (NIV)

Hey Part-time Servant of God, Listen Up! I Need Your Full, Undivided Attention!

Sorry for the long post…My heart is grieved. Not because I’m sad but because it saddens me when we profess to be Christians and do the opposite of what God desires from us, especially when we place conditions on him when making excuses to justify who we are not in him because we think we are entitled.

If you are in a REAL relationship with God, you will serve him. No ifs, ands, or buts. There is no gray area or middle ground with God. Either you will wholeheartedly serve him or you won’t. When you make the decision to give your life to him, you’re offering your life as a living sacrifice. You will desire to grow, mature, submit, giving your heart to God, be an example of Christ, and love as God does.

There are different ways we serve God but what we are not here for, TO BE SERVED BUT TO SERVE. Our service MUST be rooted in love. And should be a love-filled response and not an apathy-filled one. Too many times I witness people who profess to love the Lord but are not in the right relationship with him or are living examples of Christ in their actions, words, deeds, service, and obedience to him.

We put God in a box with only enough room to move in our lives as we see fit, when it’s convenient. Yes, we fail God every day and fall short of his glory on the regular but we must be careful when we offend him.

My observation: WHAT SERVING GOD IS NOT,

1) Judgmental, envious, jealous, hateful, spiteful, gossipers, doubters, and lack of compassion for others.

2) Serving ourselves instead of others.

3) Coming to church on Sundays, praise and worshipping but in a split second the moment someone strikes a “my nerves bad nerve”, you telling them what you ain’t gone do if it doesn’t benefit you.

4) USURPING God’s authority. Making deals with God like he’s beneath you because somewhere you were given authority and think your position supersedes his authority.

5) Wanting things to go your way because you think your position entitles you to it but fuss and complain when it doesn’t go as you insist and then tell God, “Okay…I’ll do it even though I don’t want to but…I’m serving you.” Like you’re doing him a favor!

6) Being ugly towards others, not humbling yourself before him when you’re wrong but expecting the highest level of respect because you think you deserve it.

7) Having a title, a fancy car, degrees, big houses, money, want people to look up to you, follow your own instructions but are not willing to take direction or instructions from others.

8) Looking down on others because they are not in your class, or hold the same status, or they merely don’t fit in your “circle.”

9) Not loving the unlovely or serving ALL mankind.

10) Looking for something in return just because you have “selfishly” or “unapologetically” given of your time to God…..and that’s just the beginning of the list of what not serving God looks like.

You may have missed the memo but last I checked, God doesn’t need anything from us. And he certainly does not need our help. If you’re serving God out of obligation and not out of obedience, it’s meaningless and not what God desires. Think twice before you commit to it and check yourself, your attitude, and your ways before you do it. Whomever thinks it’s okay to NEGOTIATE with God is playing a dangerous game with their soul.

As for me, I hold the highest reverence for God and out of my respect for who he is and what he means to me, I work daily to glorify him in all my doings even though I too fail him. If you profess to be a Christian, please stop playing with God and act like one. If you profess to be a Christian and serve God, please stop taking your servant role for granted and act like a servant.

Be careful how you treat God. He will humble you. He can take you from where you are and bring you to the lowest valley in 0 to 60 seconds, taking that which he has given you away until you can be humble.

If you want to be a leader, you MUST be willing to be a servant (Matthew 18:3-4). Anyone who is great or a leader is a servant. In order to be great, you MUST be humble with a lowly mentality, and not one full of pride. If you want to be a servant of God and lead others to Christ, act like one. Thanks for listening.

Be blessed! – JD

Matthew 18:3-4 “and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (ESV)

Can’t See Your Way? Have Doubts? Hopeless? In Despair? What If…Why Not…Will You…Do This?? Trust God When You Can’t Trace Him!

God is…..faithful, sovereign, trustworthy, awesome, amazing, good, loving, marvelous, never failing, and more. So if we know all these things which clearly does not cover all who he is, then why do we worry?

When your situation seems hopeless, the least unpleasant thing happens, and you don’t know which way to turn that may cause you to doubt God, what if you were to stop right in your moment of desperation or frustration and ask yourself, “Wait a minute, time and time again when I couldn’t see no way out didn’t God work it out for the greater good?” What if….why not….will you….do this???

The moment you find yourself weary, discouraged, worrying or concerned about something you have no control over is the moment you need to give it to God, speak out loud or whisper “I trust you Lord,” and leave it there. The God I serve knows all about our troubles. And will answer in his timing. Fear is not option. Faith is. When we put our total trust in him he will work it out in our favor. What I know about God, He can do anything but fail.

Every plan has a purpose. Every promise is yes and amen. Every season has a lesson. Every trial or test is for a greater purpose. So, the next time you are fearful, start having doubts, and can’t trace God, trust Him!

Be blessed! – JD

Romans 11:33 “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!” (NIV)

 

Happy Resurrection Sunday!

Joaynn510

Photo credit: http://www.joaynn510.wordpress.com

Across America this Easter, families will celebrate Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead.

Traditionally, commercially you will see Easter eggs. And baskets filled with candy to celebrate the holiday. But let’s not forget the real reason why we celebrate.

This is what the day is truly about – the fact that Jesus was resurrected from the dead on the third day following his death on the cross. Jesus paid the penalty for our sins. We are forgiven. He is Risen!

Rejoice! Celebrate not just today. But celebrate every day. It is the day we witness God’s promise of everlasting life. Jesus suffered and made the ultimate sacrifice. Resurrection Sunday – The Day of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Happy Resurrection Sunday!

Be blessed! -JD

Luke 24:46-47 “and he said unto them, Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer, and rise again from the dead the…

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God’s Blessings Keep Finding Me! Blessed to Be a Blessing. I’m Now a Published Author of Unspoken Testimony Memoir: Secrets of a Southern Girl

Boy I tell you, when God begins opening doors suddenly, unexpectedly, immediately, one after another, overflow and blessings pour out in abundance that your arms don’t have enough room to receive.

On March 9, 2018 I self-published my first book Unspoken Testimony Memoir: Secrets of a Southern Girl, now available on Amazon and can also be ordered on PayPal. Words cannot express how humble I am God saw fit to use me to demonstrate his power in my weakness.

After twelve years of traveling an unknown journey met with fiery trials, insurmountable obstacles, and numerous tests allowed or ordained by God to prepare me for the place I have now arrived, I could not have ever imagined I would ever publish a book let alone show the world how great is my God. Without God, I don’t know where my life would be. I love the Lord more than words could ever express. Without him I would be nothing.

When we make the decision to remain faithful to God, we don’t have to go looking for anything or announce everything to anyone to reveal his power. Blessings will find us. He will expose what he kept hidden, in his timing, when he elevates us. You don’t have to tell your secrets to everyone. Keep your secrets to yourself. Announcements are only necessary after everything is done, when God says it’s finished!

Blessing after blessing have been coming my way. I am overwhelmed yet so very grateful. My business Jonnay Designs® is an officially registered LLC with an EIN and a DBA coming soon under the same umbrella for my book. Copyright office has received book materials for copyright review. Guest feature on Internet Radio show. First book published . Whew Lord…I don’t know if I can handle anything else.

I am so humbled and thankful to God. I could not have done any of this without him. I don’t know where this next season will lead but what I am assured of, God has much confidence in me to complete the assignment for which I have been equipped. Glory to God. Lord, I’m willing.

Be blessed! – JD

1 Corinthians 2:9 “But as it is written, Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love him.”

OMGosh! Guess What? I’m Going To Be a Featured Guest on Royal Pen Network with host, National Best Selling Author Kendra Norman 3/29/18

I have been blessed with the astute opportunity to appear as a featured guest Thursday, March 29, 2018 at 7:00 pm (EST) on the Royal Pen Network with host, National Bestselling Author Kendra Norman Holmes. Words cannot express how humble I am God saw fit to bless me with this opportunity to be a blessing to others.

Please mark your calendars, SAVE the date March 29, 2018, and join the conversation tomorrow. Click on the Royal Pen Network link above or below for more details to listen in.

And please share!! Your support will be greatly appreciated. To God be the glory for all the marvelous things he has done. God is an awesome wonder!

Here’s the post from Royal Pen Network’s Facebook page detailing the event:

Royal Pen Network 

On Royal Pen Network’s next LIVE edition, you’ll meet JOY T. DARDEN, a woman who has championed through physical challenges to become a warrior for the kingdom of God. You may not know her by her full name, but it’s quite possible that you’ve seen many of her inspirational quotes posted throughout the Internet… all of them signed simply, “Joaynn” or her uplifting online blog, “Joaynn510.”

Reading her words of empowerment, one might never even guess that she faces the daily challenges brought on by a debilitating disease. The Bible clearly tells us that life and death lies in the power of the tongue, and every day, using her voice and her pen, Joy speaks life over herself and into the hearts of many others who read her frequent posts and blogs.

Tune in THIS WEEK… Thursday, March 29th at 7:00 p.m. (EST) as Joy shares the mic with host, national bestselling author, KENDRA NORMAN on Royal Pen Network. Hear her share her testimony and talk about what inspires her to keep inspiring others. She’ll also share details about her book, “Unspoken Testimony Memoir: Secrets of a Southern Girl.”

TWO WAYS TO LISTEN!! Log in at www.blogtalkradio.com/RoyalPenNetwork and listen via the Web, OR dial (929) 477-1993 and tune in via phone for a chance to ask questions and make comments on the air. However you choose to tune in… just DON’T MISS IT! Join us and be PENspired!

Be blessed! – JD

 

Your Steps Are STRATEGICALLY Ordered by God. Wait, I Say, Wait On the Lord!

God ordains or allows everything in this earth to happen in his timing. There is nothing He will allow to manifest that is not in perfect order according to his Word, his will, and his way, for such a time as this.

God has a set timetable. We may think it’s the perfect time to see the final result when we have completed all the work to get the job done. But then something happens that will cause further delay before we see the manifestation of his glory. We become confused, wondering what happened to cause the delay.

Wasn’t everything in order just the way we planned it? You think to yourself, “I followed instructions to a “t”, dotted all my “i”s. God says, “You missed something.” Now you have to wait longer for the right time to finish. You’re right at the finish line with one foot hovering over it, ready to cross and win the race, but “not yet” gets in your way. In the meantime you become frustrated because of the delay. You start complaining and want to give up. But you persevere, do what’s required, and realize it’s all for a greater purpose. It had to be done. It’s just that simple.

If you were to think about a time when you were working on a very important project and YOU thought everything was in order, things were going just as YOU planned, then out of nowhere a major obstacle got in the way requiring more work YOU did not want to put in. But you had to complete the task, regardless of the delay to reach the final outcome. “Not yet” had to happen before you reached your next level of destiny. God knew it even if you couldn’t see it.

Delayed is never, ever denied. God is developing you in the process. Whatever concerns you, he will perfect it. So if you’re impatient while you’re waiting for that dream or breakthrough to manifest, wondering where is God, and you think it’s taking too long. Wait for it. It’s coming; done decently and in order, exactly as God promise.

Be blessed! – JD

Proverbs 16:9 “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” (NLT)

 

Calling All Prayer Warriors, Please Say a Prayer

I know this picture looks familiar but with all that is going on in the world with yesterday’s senseless tragedy where 17 innocent people were killed in Parkland, Florida, I couldn’t help but share a revised copy of this post again today. In remembrance of those who have lost loved ones, to let them know we’re thinking of and praying for them.

There are times when I can’t look at the news and find myself far removed from things that trouble me. But yesterday was a day I couldn’t help but hear and see news of yet again unspeakable tragedy that took the lives of innocent people in Parkland, Florida. Now my heart is saddened and my soul has been stirred and shaken.

Once again tragedy has struck and taken lives of the innocent. God, I know I mustn’t ask when it all will end, because some things will continue to happen because of the fallen world we live in. I can’t keep up with all that’s going on in the world. The best thing I can do is pray for the loss of innocent souls. As well as those whose mind may have left momentarily because of the enemy, who may have convinced them only to confuse them that their life and the life of others needed to end.

Father, please forgive them for they know not what they do. Father, I ask that you cover them because of what they unknowingly may have done to hurt others and disobey you. I pray for the families who are now left behind bewildered and distraught, trying to figure out what happened to bring about this tragic time.

My prayers are with the victims and families of senseless tragedies and violent storms that continue to occur across the nation. God send strength, comfort, peace, and healing in light of devastation. Jesus, be a fence. May the blood of the Lamb protect them. I pray for strength of families who have lost loved ones, no matter the circumstance which they’ve lost loved ones. God calm the troubled waters of those who will cry endlessly, because of pain felt so deeply. Heal the hearts of those who may feel distraught, because of a void that has left a hole in their hearts. Peace be still. Heal their hearts.

God I know you are healer. You are a strong tower. You are God Almighty in every waking hour. Surround the homes of every family and friend. Dispatch angels of mercy to cover them. Your grace is sufficient no matter the tide. Let the hearts of those affected by tragedy be healed in the face of those who have been hurt, who are lost, or who have died. You are God all by yourself. For every family across the nation you are a present help. This is my prayer I pray. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Here’s a candle and a comforting scripture to let you know across the nation we are saying a prayer and thinking of you. We are praying for you.

Calling all prayer warriors, please say a prayer. Light a candle. Let them know God is there. Say a prayer for every family and victim across the nation everywhere. “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matt 18:20). God hears the prayers of the righteous. May the peace of God be with them.

Be blessed. –JD

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” (ESV)

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Hey You. Yeah You! Who Does This Remind You Of? Stop…Look…Listen!

We are a peculiar people, designed by God to fulfill the assignment he predestined for us. Oftentimes, life has a funny way of revealing what we miss in the very things we hope for never understanding the purpose God intended. Especially when we want something so badly and in most cases get exactly what we ask for.

We find ourselves in unfamiliar territory, facing obstacles beyond our control, and nothing is going as “we” planned. We begin to look at our circumstances and not fix our mind on things above, only to have things go to the left or to the right and ask God, “Is this from you?” But know this, no matter what it is we may ask for without God, wherever we find ourselves will be the very place God wants us to be that he may be glorified.

Yes, we will run into obstacles that will cause us to rethink our decisions and become doubtful. We will even encounter the enemy who wants nothing more than to frustrate our purpose and cause us to give up. We start telling God things that are not true like “I want to be like everyone else and not have to be at war with the devil on every level.” We struggle in our faith walk forgetting, EVERYTHING we do in this earth has a divine purpose. It is never about us. God will get the glory. Even though we asked for it.

When faced with the unknown, stop trying to figure out what went wrong. Don’t ask God, “Why me?” Ask him, “Why not use me?” Move from the “Why me” way and forge towards the “God use me” way. Wherever you are, God will use you to fulfill his intended purpose, no matter what. It just may not look like it because of what you may be focused on. Believe me, in time it will happen.

We can never understand why things happen the way they do or why unpleasant things are happening to us. Get this, it’s simple. It’s not about us. God wants what’s best for us. No matter the obstacles, do good, get better, and do your best. Let go. And let God handle the rest.

Be blessed! – JD

Psalm 139:16-17 “Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them. ¹⁷ How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! (NKJV)

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year’s! Thank you God for blessing us to see a new year. Satan you have been defeated! We made it. 

As we go into the new year, let us reflect on how good God has been to us, never failing us no matter what we’ve been through. 

Let this be a time for new beginnings, new connections, new expectations, new endeavors, new vision, and new hope. 

Be bold. Be intentional. Whatever you are believing God for, speak it into existence. Name it. Claim it! Just because it didn’t happen last year doesn’t mean it is not going to happen. Delayed is never denied. Seek God’s will in all you do. Start renewed, refreshed. 

Let every endeavor be an opportunity to glorify God. Expect blessings and miracles. May the year bring prosperity and peace. 

Happy New Year’s! 

Be blessed! – JD

Isaiah 43:19 “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

Say What? The Devil Is Threatened. You Have Been Considered. Get Ready!

There’s two days left. God is having a conversation with Satan you know nothing about. Two days left. It’s enough time for anything to happen. God is still working things out on your behalf. It’s going to work out in your favor. The devil is threatened. You have been considered. Two days left. God is aligning things properly for a greater purpose. There’s a shift going on. It’s time for you to pursue your calling.

When the two days are over your name will be great. Everything you’ve gone through will make perfect sense. His Word released it. It has already been established. Get ready! It only took three days for God to take Jesus through hell and back. What God starts he finishes. Two days is enough for God to do the impossible. He specializes in the impossible.

Imagine this. What would be your response if this were you and you added your name to the question God asked Satan when he said, “Have you consider my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil (Job 1:8)” What would your answer be? Would you be delighted God counted you worthy?

Satan met with God on several occasions concerning Job. God talked about how good his servant Job is. Job was tested several times. He lost his wealth, his family, and was afflicted with sores. His wife told him to “curse God and die.” Did he sin against God by cursing him? No he never did. Did he give up? No. He worshiped and blessed God. Satan tried his very best to make Job sin. Job didn’t give in to his evil devices. God blessed Job because he didn’t curse him. He gave him more than he had before. Follow Job’s example.

No man can curse what God has blessed. Satan cannot do nothing to us without God’s permission. He puts limitations on him. And even though Satan is accountable to God and God knew his intentions were to attack Job, would you trust that God is and will always be in control?

Think of a time when you lost everything you possessed; material, relational, financial, mental, and spiritual and you felt you were under attack. But you started looking at your circumstances and not the real intent behind Satan’s motives. You missed the most important point. Don’t blame God. He is not your enemy. Satan is.

See, Satan wasn’t after Job’s possessions. It was simple. He attacked his motives. He wanted to prove that Job worshipped God not out of love, but what he could and had given him. It’s easy to follow God when things are going well. But God wants to know if you trust him when things are not going good.

Job feared God. He shunned evil. He lost everything. He lamented over his loss to three friends who falsely accused. him. He knew nothing about the conference God had with Satan. Yet he never lost faith in God.

You may be in a dry season and all year long you waited for something to happen and nothing has gone the way you wanted. It feels like you’ve given it your all in return for nothing. You haven’t heard from God. He’s quiet and you’re still waiting on something. It’s just a test. Press your way through. Keep praying, meditating, reading the Word. God got you.

The devil delights in destroying the workings of the mind. An idle mind is his workshop. Rebuke that spirit! Think outside the box. What you think is who you are. Shape your life on good thoughts. You can do whatever you set your mind to. Learn from Job. All things are possible. You can do this!

Be blessed! – JD

1 Timothy 1:12 “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, that He considered me faithful and appointed me to service (Berean Study Bible).

Stop Believing the Lies of the Enemy. Tell the Devil, Get out of here with that mess! I’m too blessed to be stressed!

Have you ever noticed when you take your eyes off your situation and look to God, how things begin to work out in your favor unexpectedly, and you are at peace?

There will be times when nothing is working as you expect. You change your mind in an instant. You become discouraged, frustrated to the point of desperation. You want to quit and give up, forgetting God is faithful and will do just as he promised.

You find yourself trying to work things out on your own, instead of trusting God’s Word, in his timing it will work for the greater good.

You start having doubts. You don’t feel like doing a thing, let alone put any effort into what you know God has already prepared you to do. You start looking to the right and to the left, focused on what is in front of you and not what’s above. God says it’s not over until he says it’s over.

See, the enemy plays tricks on your mind and wants you to change what you know about God and make you believe nothing He says is ever true or will work out as his Word promise. Don’t believe that mess. The devil is the father of lies! He a liar and the truth ain’t in him!

Be encouraged today. God will make a way out of no way. Your gift will make room for you. Don’t concern yourself with matters that do not concern you. If you are passionate about something, no matter how many obstacles you face or opposition that gets in your way, as long as you still have a passion for what you are passionate about, keep doing what you love to do. Persevere. Don’t give up. Whatever you are believing God for will manifest in the supernatural. Keep your eyes on God. Let him do his job!

When the devil starts talking trash in your ear tell him, “Get outta here with that mess. I ain’t hearing it. I’m too blessed to be stressed!”

Be Blessed! –JD

1 Thessalonians 3:7 “for this reason, brothers and sisters, during all our distress and suffering we have been comforted and greatly encouraged about you because of your faith [your unwavering trust in God—placing yourselves completely in His loving hands];” (AMP).