Roll Call! Get Your Gangsta On for God. Stop Doubting Jesus and Believe!

As I was operating off three hours of sleep this morning, God woke me and sat me straight up at 7:30 am, laid this heavily in my spirit and said, “Tell it!” I don’t play when he speak. Don’t get mad at me. I’m just doing what he told me to do. This is for somebody (and me). Warning…it’s a little long but I promise the read will be be well worth it.

When you know what you know about God, there is no reason to ever doubt what he can or can’t, will or won’t, should or shouldn’t, would or wouldn’t do for you. He is the God of the impossible. He will do it!

Do some of you remember when you didn’t have two nickels to rub together, a pot to put it in or a window to throw it out? Didn’t know how bills were going to get paid, wondered how you were gonna make it with an imperfect body, or do what you know God called you to do when doubting God?

Annndddd…Hateraters had the audacity to want to take a seat at your table when they couldn’t stand to see you blessed because they ran out of haterade and could no longer see what you were carrying.

And God showed up with more money than month, met every need, placed your enemies under your feet, and healed your body in ways you least expected. Didn’t he do it?!! I’ll answer…YES!!

He opened up the windows of heaven and poured out a blessing your arms didn’t have enough room to receive. He never failed you! Stop limiting yourself and doubting God. Roll call!! Get your gangster on. Go hard for God. Jesus did it for you. Return the favor. I’m just saying.

Remember the lame man? Thirty-eight years his problem became his way of life. He was filled with doubt. His situation seemed hopeless. He was an invalid and had been in this condition for a long time. Jesus had to get a little gangster on him. He asked him, “Do you want to get well? (John 5:6). He felt trapped in his infirmities and answered, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me” (John 5:7). Jesus said, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk” (John 5:8). And he did! If that is not enough proof, here’s another one.

Remember Doubting Disciple Didymus (Thomas) (I just made that up lol)? He had doubts. He wanted to see Jesus’ physical presence before he believed what he knew to be true about Him. When the disciples told Thomas, “We have seen the Lord! (John 20:24), he didn’t believe them. He said, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands, and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it” (John 20:25). Jesus said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27).

Last one. I promise. Remember the woman at the well? She said to Jesus, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water” (John 4:15). He told her, “Go call your husband and come back” (John 4:16). “I have no husband,” she answered (John 4:17). Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband.” The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband…” (John 4:18). I guess he told her. Now if that ain’t a little gangster, I don’t know what is.

She was uncomfortable. She changed the subject; quickly! It hit too close to home. She wanted to talk about something else and Jesus wasn’t having it. He had an important point to make and directed the conversation to that point, “the location of worship is not nearly as important as the attitude of worshipers” (LASB notes John 4:16-20). Put that in your memory.

What will it take for you to believe Jesus is who he says he is and will do what he says he will do? He will never leave you or forsake you and is always with you.

Listen….what I’ve discovered about Jesus when he had to get a little gangster on some people with a fierce clapback, he was never scared. When doubt and fear rose, he showed up and showed out, putting some people in their place. Let me help you.

Here’s a little piece of advice…When doubt enters the recesses of your mind, send it packing. Don’t settle. Get your mind right. Be about your Father’s business. Trust him when you can’t trace him. We serve a mighty, mighty God! He will do just…as…he…promise! ~Selah

Be blessed! – JD

Matthew 11:1-6 “When Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in their cities. 2 Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples 3 and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” 4 And Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” (ESV)

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What? Why? When? How? did this happen? It’s Me God. Can I Be Transparent For A Moment?

Good morning God. It’s me. Your daughter. Woke with you on my mind in awe of your awesome wonder. I’ve been through some things I can’t even explain how I overcame and often wondered, What? Why? When? How? did this happen?

I lost many things along the way, friends turned their backs on me, loved ones hurt me, material possessions were gone. I cried tears of prayers and did my best to hold on. It was not until I laid prostrate before the Lord and cried out to you God, What? Why? When? How? losing everything, even almost my mind and discovered. I may never understand What or Why or know When or How, but I am assured You WILL.

For every trouble and trial I faced, YOU BLOCKED IT! For every obstacle I met in the face of adversity, YOU DID IT! For every sickness and disease that riddled my body with pain, YOU HEALED IT! I don’t need to know the answers to everything but what I know God, YOU are my EVERYTHING! And you will do just as YOU PROMISE. I give all glory to God. You are my rock, my shield, my strong tower.

No man can curse what God has blessed. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. I will speak those things that are not as though they are. I will walk boldly in my purpose. What God has for me is for me. The devil may try it, but no one can take from me what YOU promised me.

This spiritual battle I’m in is not against flesh and blood. People don’t determine my destiny. You do. Weapons of my warfare are not carnal. I know the Lord will fight my battles. The enemy may come in like a flood, the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.

Don’t get it twisted. I am my Father’s daughter. I’m covered by the blood of Jesus. With every ounce of my being I will serve the Lord. God you are my EVERYTHING. I give you glory!

Be blessed! – JD

Ephesians 2:10 “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” (NASB)

God is About To Shut It Down! Fear, Doubt, Anxiety, It’s Got to Go. Get Ready. Your Miracle is Coming!

Listen…I don’t know who this is for but God laid this on my heart…

God is about to SHUT IT DOWN! He’s up to something. All the things the devil think he stole from you, God is going to restore you double. Anything that no longer serves a purpose in your life, God is going to send it packing.

Get your suitcase ready. Fear, doubt, anxiety, worry, it’s got to go. Pack it up. Throw away the key. The struggle is over!

Everything that is attached to you that has been hindering you from reaching your destiny, God is about to release you from bondage. He is about to set you free! Get ready, get ready!

Every challenge, struggle, obstacle, trial, adversity, and trouble you’ve faced, God is about to erase it from your memory. It’s done. Your future is waiting.

God is about to break barriers in your life. Call it done. He is about to SHUT IT DOWN!

Are you ready?

Be blessed! – JD

1 Corinthians 2:9 “But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.”’ (ESV)

Can You Imagine ….ALL God Has Prepared For You? Eyes Have Not Seen! God Said It. I Didn’t. Get Ready!

IMAGINE THIS… You can’t see what I see. Something great is on the way. I SMILE …God is going to exceed your expectations. Every towel of defeat, distraction, and despair …THROW it back. Get ready!

God is about to release you into your destiny. Every attack was an indication of the blessing that’s coming. Boy, IT’S MAJOR!

God’s best kept secret is about to be exposed. Your secret season is almost over. God’s about to bring you to the forefront. He gone show up and show out! DEY AIN’T READY FOR YA!

Be blessed! – JD

1 Corinthians 2:9 “But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”—(ESV)

Stop Looking for Validation or Approval From Others. Jesus Didn’t Need It. You Don’t Either!

Oftentimes we can get so caught up when looking for approval or acceptance from others in order to walk in the calling God has specifically established for us. Validation from others is not required. Jesus didn’t need it. Nor do we.

The opinions of others is not a mandate to follow the call of God. It’s okay to take it into consideration when given but it’s not required to act on it. Nor is it a necessity to follow your heart. The Holy Spirit will make an impression on your heart and lead you to do what God is calling you to do. Not people. But be forewarned. When you listen to God, keep in mind you will likely get criticism and be judged by others when you don’t do what they tell you you should be doing.

Know this. When God calls you to do a work for him, he will equip you with all you need to do his WILL, not theirs. He will provide you with tools needed to complete the assignment. Not what’s on everybody else’s agenda. Everything that’s good is not always good and everything that’s good is not always bad. Discern the difference.

You may never understand all God is doing through and in you when it feels like you don’t know what you’re doing, and it looks like he’s doing nothing. Be confident of this, God knows exactly what he’s doing. Be encouraged. Keep doing what he knows you need to be doing to fulfill his purpose. Don’t quit or give up. Somebody’s watching. Stay the course. Somebody needs what you are carrying that’s been assigned by God. Keep doing it! ~Selah

Be blessed! – JD

1 Thessalonians 2:4 “But just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts.” (ESV)

 

Happy International Women’s Day! Ladies, let’s join forces and #BalanceForBetter. We can do this!!

To every woman across the nation who have made or is making an impact and whose contributions continue to break barriers, I celebrate you!

It takes a certain kind of person to be who we are. Strong, tenacious, resilient, grace, dignity, intellect, beauty, just to name a few.

We wear many different hats on any given day to nurture, inspire, love, and empower others. We all bleed the same blood. We stand up for injustice and will fight like a girl when someone harms our loved ones. We don’t play when you mess with something precious to us.

We set the record straight just about who we are. Don’t get it twisted. We are PHENOMENAL! We rule the world. Let’s join forces and #BalanceForBetter. Ladies, we can do it!

We rock! – JD

Sorry NOT Sorry. I Said It. I Ain’t Taking Nothing Back. I Meant It. I Ain’t Changing It. God Changed My Life and My Heart. My Book is My Testimony!

The day after Thanksgiving I had been up since 3 am that morning. For two days, Friday and Saturday, I wrestled with not going to church and not wanting to be bothered by anyone. God disturbed me and interrupted my plans, as usual. Guess what? You already know.

I pressed my way and am so glad I made it because Bishop La’Tresa Jester preached me out of my seat. She brought a mighty, mighty word, “It’s Worth The Wait.” She spoke my truth.

I am and have always been real and to the point, but feared being transparent. Not anymore. I started shouting and while thanking God it got me thinking when she said this, “Tell your haters, ‘In between your blinks I’m changing. While you blinking, I’m changing. While you blinking, I’m coming up. While you blinking, he’s restoring me!”

I started declaring, “I am positioned for better.” I’m on my way. I will no longer be bothered by my emotions or distracted by my feelings. I’m staying ready! God is about to restore me in front of folks that counted me out. The stuff I thought I’d never have is going to start leaping up. I’m in position to receive all God has in store for me.

I will no longer be ashamed of telling my story; that it may help others. I wrote it. I said it. I ain’t taking nothing back. It’s my story, my testimony. I’m proud of it. I’ve been delivered.

Thank you God for every delay, every setback. I’ve been setup for the greatest comeback. When I get what you give me, I’m going to do better with it. I promise God. I trust you even when I can’t see it. When I can’t trace you I trust you.

I meant every word I said in my book. I wrote it. I ain’t taking nothing back. I said it. I’m Sorry But I’m Not Sorry. And….for those of you who would like to know what it is I said, you are welcome to purchase a copy of my book titled Unspoken Testimony Memoir: Secrets of a Southern Girl on Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Autographed copies are available by request. Send me an email and we can talk! Thanks in advance for your support!

Be blessed! – JD

Luke 8:39 “Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” ‘And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him.” (ESV)

Don’t Be Surprised By Shifting Seasons and Give Up Before You Start. They Are Consistent, Constant, and Continuous. Stay Ready!

During December, the final month of last year, many of us began to make declarations for a better year ahead desiring different outcomes, better results, success, joy, happiness, favorable health or whatever it is our hearts desire in search of a better year than before.

Yet throughout the year, many of us may have gone through a hard season of losses, fiery trials, difficult challenges, unexplained financial struggles, and anything that could have gone wrong did, where hope was lost but…you’re still standing. By the grace of God you made it.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Seasons change and are consistent, constant, and continuous. Always keep in mind, just as there are four seasons which occur every year in order with varying characteristics that will cause changes in the environment around us, so will seasons in our life. Maybe not in order but they are consistent.

Your spiritual temperance will be inconsistent; hot, warm, lukewarm or cold. Life happens. With every new level through each season God takes us, there will be new devils to deal with. We mustn’t be surprised by it. But be prepared for it.

The enemy doesn’t fight fair when he knows there’s a shift in the atmosphere of extraordinary expectancy of miracles. He knows God has greater coming. He will do everything and I mean everything in his power to convince you to quit, to give up, don’t you dare do it. You will be tried, tested, and proven to build character. To build your faith. God’s faithfulness will indeed be proven.

Rain falls on the just and the unjust. Storms will come. Stay the course. God is faithful. Shifting seasons are par for the course. Stay focused. Dry, waiting, spiritual warfare, trial, or test seasons will come. Don’t get weary in well-doing. When the enemy wages war tell him, “Get outta here with that mess. I’m suited up with the Sword of the Spirit and the Word of God. I’m ready for battle. Bring it!” Pick your battles today. And remember, shifting seasons are necessary. Stay ready!

Be blessed! – JD

Isaiah 55:10-11 “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, 11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” (NKJV)

Okay Bird Box Netflix Fans, You Got My Attention. I watched the movie! Boy I tell Ya…Intrigued I Was… And Of Course I Found a Message In It

So, after seeing countless posts on the #BirdBox movie on Netflix I decided to watch it last night and for any of you that know me know I am one to find a spiritual message or lesson in everything that applies to life be it a movie, a commercial, vacation, event, etc. I am an analyzer, deep thinker okay lol.

While I cannot speak for the audience this movie intended to serve or its purpose, what I am assured of, there was a clear message or take away for many like myself. Here’s my thought. First and foremost, thinking it was a horror movie which I don’t watch, ever, I was prepared to be terrified and stop watching moments in but I wasn’t and I didn’t. Surprisingly, I was intrigued.

From the beginning as I noticed Sandra Bullock and her children blindfolded not yet knowing the reason why, I couldn’t help but think how many of us go through life with blinders on (not literally) unprepared for death until something forces us to make an emergency decision, when sadly, it may be too late. Something to think about.

Now notice, Sandra’s character had never looked at the news so she was not aware of or prepared for the catastrophe of sudden death of humanity by this unsuspecting “evil” force that was headed their way. Hmm…sounds familiar? Much like many of us who may be unprepared for the second coming of Jesus and lack knowledge of God’s word but may scramble to be saved at the last minute, when sadly it will be too late.

Is it safe to say she lived a carefree life as she lived in the moment, in the here and now and not looked towards the future? I don’t know. I’m just assuming but what I am certain of many of us live this way without a plan or a process, unprepared to live an eternal life. We’re okay with average as long as we still have life.

Now I don’t want to give away much of the movie or the ending so I’ll say this. When death came knocking at her door, she ran to a place of the unknown, in unfamiliar territory, with people she did not know to save herself and her unborn child. They were safe and could only take the blinders off inside to be shielded from the darkness of evil lurking outside. Much like the dark world we as believers live in filled with evil forces that surround us but Jesus, the light of the world lives inside and protects and guides us.

Survival for the moment was predicated on a chance they had to take blindfolded, travel outside the unknown, but be guided by a GPS system that would lead them to their destination not knowing if they would arrive safely. Like us, as God navigates us through the unknown, not knowing how we will get where we’re going but we hold on to faith, the substance of things hoped for, evidence of things unseen because we believe God is who he says he is; I AM That I AM.

Lastly, what I noticed was how evil forces with familiar voices cried out to, chased down, persuaded, and lured outsiders to give in to temptation and look at them or take the blinders off only to meet with an untimely death they were not prepared for. Yet if they had ignored the voices, like the enemy tries to plant inside our heads, and not given in to temptation, they probably would have not suffered as much and may have reached the place of peace, safety, and comfort if they had been better prepared for it. Sounds familiar?

I won’t say anything else but I will leave you with this. Watch the movie if it moves you to do so or take your thought process a little deeper and think about how this applies to your life and what you would have done or what you are doing to prepare to meet Jesus when your times comes. Blessings!

Be blessed! – JD

Luke 21:36 “But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (NASB)

2018 is Almost Over. Get Your Praise On. You Still Have Time. Finish Strong! 2019 is around the corner. Be On Fire For God. Get Ready! Let’s Do This!

As this year comes to a close let us give praise, honor, and glory unto God for grace and mercy! As we prepare to enter into 2019, let not only one day be a day you live to be better, live to do better, and live to get better but let everyday be a day you reconcile and surrender your will to God’s will as you live to be Christ-like in every area of your life.

As a witness, let your days be filled with perseverance and divine authority as you lead others to Christ. May you continue to walk in victory, honor God, and spread the gospel about Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior to everyone you may encounter.

We as believers all have a destiny, an eternal destiny. God has a plan and a purpose for each and every one of us. As I walk in my purpose, I will profess to the world that my Lord and Savior is Jesus Christ. I will profess his goodness, his mercy, and his omnipotence. I will proclaim his faithfulness. I will proclaim his power.

I am a witness. For, “The most important thing is that I complete my mission, the work that the Lord Jesus gave me–to tell people the Good News about God’s grace” [Acts 20:24, NCV]. Because to me, it means God is able. Able to do exceeding and abundantly above all we could ask or think… [Ephesians 3:20].

My prayer: Jehovah Jireh, grant unto me and every family member and friend, according to your riches in glory, your tender mercies and immeasurable favor, the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places according to Isaiah 45:1-3. I declare that the Cyrus anointing flows unhindered and uncontaminated in each and every life according to Isaiah 60:10-17. Grant peace, mercy, and favor. I seal this prayer in Jesus’ name, AMEN! And Thank God!

I am sending my “Happy New Year” wish early. Please be safe and for those of you traveling away from home may God give you traveling mercy to reach your destination safely without hurt, harm or danger. And please, don’t drink and drive. Call a cab, call an Uber, call a friend or love one or call AAA and save a life. Love you!

Be Blessed! – JD

Revelation 21:5 “He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” (NIV)

 

Merry Christmas! For Unto Us a Savior was Born “…And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God…”

Joy Darden

1 hr · 

Merry Christmas from my family to yours! Good morning!

God we give you the highest praise for the gift of your one and only Son, Jesus Christ; Hallelujah!

For unto us a Savior was born, a baby lying in a manger in Bethlehem. “…And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

It is on this day we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Tis the reason for the season. Glory to God.

Have a blessed and Merry Christmas!

Be Blessed! – JD

Isaiah 9:6 “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (KJV).

Stop Trying to Unlock The Door To Your Past With Keys That Don’t Work. Throw Them Away! And Watch God Throw The Keys To Your Future Right Back At You!

Going back to what’s familiar from your past can be so easy to do when you feel defeated and your back is against the wall. In spite of the fact your past kept you bound, miserable, and stagnated your growth because you didn’t have to change anything about yourself to make life happen. You loved being comfortable with who you were. Until God closed that door and made you uncomfortable.

When God closes the door to your past, it’s a done deal. It’s gone. When he heals and delivers you from the very things that should have destroyed you, stop trying to bring back the past of no return. Throw away the keys and move on. And thank God later for your future.

No matter how many times you fight against walking in your purpose, delaying your destiny out of fear or frustration and you keep telling God “NO,” his YES will always be “YES and Amen.” He promise.

If you were truly honest with yourself, can you admit much like me, too often you constantly tell God “I don’t want to do the work I’m called to do anymore out of frustration and fear because it seems too hard, but find yourself unable to stop doing what you know you’ve been purposed to do at any given moment because it doesn’t feel right when you don’t.

You’re satisfied with and want to stay where you are and stay hidden in the background because you’re comfortable being complacent. But as God move you to each level, eventually you cannot stay hidden or remain comfortable. Where you’re going will be uncomfortable. You’ll travel alone and lose some people along the way because everybody can’t go with you or do what God assigned specifically for you to complete. You’ll be tried and tested in your faith walk because you’ve been chosen to fulfill God’s, not your, purpose.

God put this in my spirit and revealed this very thing to me today. No matter how many times I want to quit and give up, God just will not let me. Nor will he allow me to stay comfortable. That right there tells me who is in charge, not me, but God. One day, I’ll get this calling and faith walk right and run to my destiny. Pray for me 😊

Ready to quit? Ready to give up? Your situation is more than you can handle? Stop it! Rebuke that spirit! God did not give you a spirit of fear. Don’t give up. Keep it moving!

Be blessed! – JD

2 Corinthians 1:20 “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.” (AMP)

 

I Dare You! Don’t Give Up…You Can’t Quit. Don’t You Dare Do It!

Trials? Trouble? Tests? Did you learn from it? Has it taught you anything? Faith failing? Doubt entering the recesses of your mind? In distress? Good news! God is up to something. It’s gonna turn around in your favor. Raise your expectations. Get ready for exceedingly abundantly. Look at God. He gone do that!

No matter the circumstance, give thanks to God. You made it. He is not a man, that he should lie, or a son of man he should change his mind. He is faithful. Won’t he do it! The devil is the master of confusion and wants you to believe your former days were your best days. He’s a liar and the truth ain’t in him! Your latter will be greater. Now walk in your purpose!

You can’t quit or give up, knowing the God you serve. You can’t quit or give up, knowing no weapon formed against you shall prosper. You can’t quit or give up, knowing you’re more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus who loves you. You can’t quit or give up, knowing God is able. You can’t quit or give up, knowing our God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. You can’t quit or give up. Don’t you dare do it! God promise he will take care of it.

God has delivered you from the impossible. With God, all things are possible. No matter the circumstance, keep giving God the praise. No matter the obstacles, keep putting God first. He specializes in the impossible. Our God is able. God granted brand new mercies today, even when we didn’t deserve it.

No matter what it looks like, get your praise on. Thank God you didn’t stay in “it” too long. You overcame whatever “it” was. You’re stronger, wiser, better. But God. I feel a shout coming! Glory, Hallelujah!

Be blessed! – JD

2 Chronicles 15:7 “But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” (NIV)

When The Devil Bothers You With That “You Ain’t Gone Win Mess”, Clap Back At Him! Tell Him, “Get Outta Here With That Mess.” I Was Created To Finish!

Nothing’s going right? Feels like the whole world is against you? Problems, situations, or trouble overwhelming you? Praying but seems like God is not listening? Feel defeated? Attacks from the enemy at an all-time high? Whatever your hands touch are not prospering? No worries. You’re on the right track. The devil doesn’t come after nothing that is not a threat to his kingdom.

Don’t lose hope. Keep trusting God. Do what you’re called to do. But God. He has already handled it. You will win!

The moment you become discouraged and want to give up, remind yourself, “I was not created to give up or quit. I was created to finish!” You are on assignment for God. He created you for a special purpose. God has a plan and you’re part of it. Don’t stop. Keep moving forward.

The devil don’t bother no one who is not making progress. They ain’t got nothing he wants. The enemy fights those who are a threat to his kingdom. He wants you to give up! Keep doing the right thing even when the wrong thing is happening.

The devil is the author of confusion. Confuse him right back. When he thinks you are about to give up, show him what you’re working with. Instead of giving up, thank God that he is in control of your situation. Thank him no weapon formed against you will prosper. Thank him he will fight your battles. Thank him for all you should have done wrong, but you didn’t.

When you should have gotten weaker, you got stronger. When you should have lost your mind, your mind was made up. When you should have complained about everything that went wrong, you praised God in the middle of it. When you should’ve given up, you didn’t.

Yes, obstacles will get in the way. Persevere. Stand strong. Don’t complain about how big your problems are. Tell your problems how big your God is! The enemy loves what he does for free and will work overtime to get your attention. Your making progress gets his attention. Don’t give him the time of day. He is not worth your attention. The enemy doesn’t fight people that are going the wrong way. He comes against people that are headed in the right direction.

Frustrated? Disappointed? Friends turned on you? Want to give up? Don’t you dare do it! Don’t get discouraged. Clap back at the enemy! Tell him, “Get out of here with that mess! I WAS CREATED TO FINISH!”

Your assignment is too important to give up. Remember, the devil doesn’t bother anyone who is not making progress. Finish strong. You are in it to win it. Keep it moving!

Be blessed! – JD

Acts 20:24 “But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” (ESV)

Stop it! Stop Choosing Certain Times to Friend God Because He Does Something For You When YOU Want. God Knows Best. He Already Got It Handled!

Forgive me, it’s long but I been thinking….and this may bless someone.

When we encounter struggles in life that seem difficult to overcome, oftentimes we become desensitized to its effects because we fail to identify the root of the problem. Convinced defeat is part of the norm and our lives will end in disaster.

We keep going in circles with the same problem time and time again, bewildered, wondering what happened, why nothing changed, why am I still struggling? Asking God, “When will this all be over?” Isn’t it funny how surprised we are by the struggle? Watch this. Take note. There’s a lesson. Nothing should surprise you when the hand of God brings you through it.

Each and every one of us struggle with something. Believe it or not, struggles are supposed to happen. The difference in how we handle it will depend on how we respond to it. But do you ever notice sometimes when your struggle does not change, you are still surprised by it?

Struggle with bills? Isn’t it common sometimes? Sometimes isn’t there more month than money in your account? Struggle with people disappointing, leaving, or hating on you? Doesn’t it happen from time to time? Isn’t there a season, reason, or a lifetime for people to enter or leave your life? Struggle losing material possessions? Aren’t they temporary? So why are you surprised at it? Don’t be. Get a handle on it. It’s called life and it happens.

“…God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5). If you will humble yourself under the hand of God, he will elevate you in his timing. Oftentimes when we are going through trials, we really do not have a clue as to how God is moving in our lives. We can’t see it but it is all for a reason. The hand of God guides, disciplines, refines, and instructs us. The more we recognize it the less surprised we will be by struggles that really are necessary for our spiritual development.

Why then do we cherry pick the hand of God based on certain conditions? “I like the hand of God when he gives me provision but I don’t when I struggle and can’t pay my bills. I like the hand of God when he works out my situation immediately but I don’t when I have to learn patience and wait on him. I like the hand of God when He gives me the desires of my heart but I don’t when I struggle and I’m down to nothing. I like the hand of God when prayers are answered but I don’t when I have to be pray without ceasing, read the word of God daily, and be consistent in my obedience.”

Stop it! Stop choosing certain times when God is your friend because he does something for you when YOU want it, and recognize the hand of God is available to help you help yourself. He got the parts you can’t handle, handled!

Here’s an AHA moment…there’s value in suffering. How? Glad you asked. It brings us closer to God and prepares us to be compassionate to others and do the work of God and His kingdom. Yes, while we don’t enjoy trials or struggles, they are necessary to help us grow. In fact they are required. Consider it all joy when you encounter various trials (James 1:2), because they are valuable to your spiritual growth.

The next time you find yourself struggling, ask God for wisdom to guide you and to help you learn the lesson for whatever it is he brings you through, in his timing, with his hands. It may be years down the line before you recognize why God brought you through that situation. But nothing should surprise you when you see the hand of God. Struggles are a necessary part of the journey. God just wants to know what took you so long. He’s surprised you didn’t come to him sooner.

Be blessed! -JD

Romans 8:17-18 “Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. ¹⁸ I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (NIV)

Stay Woke! Keep Watch. Remain Vigilant. Watch out for Judases and Peters.

Stay woke! Who is your Judas, your Peter? Ones who have betrayed you or those who have denied you? Were you surprised by the betrayal or the denial? Did it hurt your heart? Were you disappointed in those who say they are devoted to Christ but their claims are meaningless when they are tested in the ordeal of persecution?

I ask these questions because inquiring minds want to know. How do you handle a Judas or a Peter in your life when you least expect it and are surprised by it?

God never ceases to amaze me. For some reason as I woke to begin my daily Bible reading in the Book of Luke, Chapter 22, I was led to Mark 14, the Death and Resurrection of Jesus, The Servant. As I’m reading the chapter, I noticed some similarities to the conversation I had with God moments earlier. I had a revelation. After my talk with God, I had a revelation and said out loud, “Stay Woke. Keep your eyes open. Don’t be surprised when people show you who they are. Believe them.”

Let me digress. When I woke this morning I started talking to God. I explained to him the difficulty I am having with the element of surprise. Because I don’t like surprises. I don’t deal well with it. I want to know everything there is to know right in that moment and not be surprised by anything. I explained to him how disappointed I am in people who surprise me when they show me who they are and I don’t want to believe it because of who I think they are when fooled by who they really are.

For the past five days I rose 3:00 am or 4:00 am in the morning wondering, asking God, “Why am I woke this early?! Today, I learned he was trying to tell me something. I wasn’t paying attention because my mind was heavily focused on the past event of the untimely passing of my father two and half weeks ago, of which I was surprised by. Just as I was with the untimely passing of my mother 2+ years ago. And there it was, the element of “Surprise” staring me in my face. It occurred to me God is dealing with me in this area. Okay God. I’m paying attention.

In this life there will be some Judases and Peters who will either betray you at your most vulnerable stage when you are going through what seems insurmountable to overcome or they will deny you in times of great stress only to leave you vulnerable to temptation. Even when your spirit is willing, but your body is weak (Mark 14:38).

Good news! Jesus explains in Mark 14:33 – 38; 40, 41 how to resist. “Keep watch – stay awake and be morally vigilant. Pray to God – this is how you maintain vigilance. Seek support of friends and loved ones – this is how you build up your resistance and help others. Focus on the purpose God has given you – this is how you do God’s will and not your own.” That’s some great advice!

Nothing in this life should surprise you. No circumstance, situation, person, place, or thing. When the surprise comes, even if your spirit is willing and the flesh may be weak, don’t fall into the trap of temptation. Don’t let the element of surprise fool you. Stay focused. Keep your mind right. Do as Jesus taught you. Pray to God. Seek friends and loved ones who support you. Accept it for what it is and move on. It’s life.

Surprises are part of the process. So are disappointments. Don’t become consumed by it. You may become overwhelmed when in distress or stressed.

STAY WOKE, KEEP WATCH, REMAIN VIGILANT!

Be blessed! – JD

Mark 14: 37 “Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Simon,” he said to Peter, “are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour? 38 Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” (NIV)

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)

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.”

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