Sermon Reflection
1 Peter 1:13-16 "Pursuit of Holiness"
This past Sunday one of the elders of our Church delivered the sermon because my pastor was out on vacation. The pastor spoke about living your life pure. The pastor talked about how we must protect our mind before it leads to sin and how we should protect what we are allowing our mind to dwell on. He challenged us to take a look at what we watch , laugh at , and listen to because we are filled with the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, Since we have GOD with us, we must ask ourselves would GOD feel comfortable with the thought inside us. The pastor pointed to the scripture calling us to strive to be Holy for GOD is Holy. The Church was deafly quiet!
I was sitting staring at the pastor but my mind was with GOD thinking about the thoughts that is inside my head. When I watch tv and a scantly clad women grace the screen, do JESUS want to be bothered with the thoughts that may fleet through my mind. When I was thinking of the songs I recite from my childhood in the 90's rehearsing gangster rap lyrics filled with sin, and so called love songs filled with lustful ideas. I became ashamed and repented knowing that at those times , I am not holding my thoughts captive protecting myself from sin, instead I was sinning! I shouldn't dance around the issue of sin I need to flee from it before those thoughts have a chance to manifest itself in my head.
So I have to be proactive on my spiritual walk. I need to run from sin. I have taken some proper steps on fleeing from sinful language and concepts by abstaining from certain secular music but I know I have to refrain from "Holy Vacations" so that I am Holy at all times. I have to continue to change the channel when confronted with sin on tv. I have reduced most of my television programming to sports and wrestling and I know I have to be proactive in changing the channel when sinful scenes come about.
The greatest challenge of the sermon was daring us to strive to be known as "Holy"! We have to strive to it, I hear people criticize people from being a "holy roller" or hollier than though" . Now I know it should not be my goal to condemn anyone else, actually that is a sin for me to turn my nose on others as if I am above reproach. But I must strive wholeheartedly to be Holy so when I come short I gave it my all.... How close are you magnifying your Christian life? Are you ok with just being saved or are you trying to create a environment in your soul that GOD is comfortable with dwelling in. I challenge you and especially myself, to tidy it up for GOD! AMEN
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Showing posts with label Bible. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bible. Show all posts
Friday, March 14, 2014
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Sermon reflection 1/26/14 Moving on when things don't go your way
Samuel 12:15-20 "When Death Comes Knocking"Sermon reflection
This past sermon talked about David fasting mourning and praying for his son to stay alive. He prayed unceasingly hoping GOD will show mercy and not take away his son but then his son died. When David heard the news he washed up and ate , basically moving on with his life and continued to praise GOD in his life anyway. The Pastor used this story to illustrate how we shouldn't harp on the death. How we must pick up and move on and keep up the good fight even when things do not go our way. We must not get stuck in a rut when things don't go our way, we need to rejoice in the LORD anyway and continue to serve him. We shouldn't embrace death like the ones who don't know the LORD. That person is not the end all be all, we can live without you haha.I have never had a death of someone I see everyday. So I didn't connect emotionally with that but I did connect with the idea of moving on when something does not go my way! I know that is something we all go through in life. We all think that we really want something and our flesh convince us that something is much more important than it really is. I recalled how I was humbled in my profession. I was thinking I was the Golden teacher who taught what he wanted when he wanted but I was put in my place a year ago. It turns out that I did not have the credentials I should have held to teach AP level classes. I blew it off at first thinking my performance will override the rules but in the end the rules prevailed and my AP class that I achieved success in was taken away and I was regulated to teaching "General ed" . .I prayed and prayed for a loophole but the rules prevailed. I was angry didn't think it was fair but then I began to think about what GOD was telling me. I was big headed and boastful. I needed to be humble. I needed to see that it was more of the students not me because my success in grades and achievement is much less in the classes I am teaching now. I know now that I didn't have this perfect method I was just blessed with results and talent to work with. I also realized that I was thinking to much of the glory and not what GOD want me to do. I have been talking and mentoring more and more to the kids who do not get a man'ly Christian presence like me any where else. GOD is using me in different aspects like this blog now that I am not busy preparing for AP all the time. GOD is also grooming me for more knowledge because now I am back to college to take some classes to get the credentials. Most importantly I am now able to use this story and triumph to be able to share with my other brothers and sisters in CHRIST to bring honor and glory to GOD!
In the US , when you are introduced to people by stating your career, phrased as "what yo do for a living", or " who are you". Now I humbly answer the question of "so who are you?" with the answer "Im Rashad a Christian , I earn money as a teacher" vs "I'm Rashad, Im a teacher".. In other words, teaching densest define me, that's not what I need to boast about, it can be taken away with a blink of eye! My position in heaven cant be taken away because JESUS guarantees everlasting life! ,,,,GOD is what I boast about, I am always a child of GOD so when things go wrong , I pick up and move on knowing that I am HIS ! AMEN!
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Sermon reflection 1/19/14
2 Samuel 12:10-14 Constipated Saints
This past Sunday talked about unconfessed sin in our life. It causers poison and gives us discomfort when we don't confess to GOD our sin. The pastor used the story of Davids cover up sending him into a spiraling effect into deeper sin and troubles. That is what happens when we find ourselves caught up into unrepentant sin. The pastor finished with an important lesson on the effects of sin. Making note that just because GOD forgives us when we repent of our sin, we still must deal with the damages while we are here on earth. He pointed at Samuel in which because of Davids sin with Bathsheba, there was violence and drama in his family including death of his sons.We have to realize that just because it doesn't hurt our position in heaven because GOD has already given us that through JESUS CHRIST, we still leave scars in our life. I have to try to paraphrase a very good story;
{a father puts a nail in the wall every time his son sinned, when the son does a good thing, the father pulled the nail out. The son was later left with a scared wall and cried to his father, "I have scars all over my room, " }
This sermon was important for every Christian to hear. I took time after the sermon to examine my life on the sin that I may have not confessed. It was a very taxing experience as the wells of my eyes filled thinking of things and thoughts I have been have doing/feeling that goes against GOD. I know my laziness was the easy one, cutting corners on every aspect of my life when I know GOD wants me to do more! Tithing like I should, how dare I pray for financial balance when I am not trusting GOD with what I have now! One of the hardest things for people to do is look at the bad within themselves, but its even harder trying to come up with ways to have peace with unrepented sin! Impossible even.
The last part of the Sermon is what hit me in the gut! My stomach actually began to ache at the thought of my sin leaving scars. I began thinking about the harmful effects of the sin I know GOD forgave me for. The times when I shown my wife anger when she needed me to help with the kids because "I GOT TO WAKE UP IN THE MORNING!!" Months later my wife was rubbing her head in frustration telling me about how she wish she had time to take care of something but she is to busy with the boys. Of course I responded with "that's not a problem , just tell me you need help" while rolling my eyes ... As I type I think about that young 20 something with a kid out of wedlock because his 22 year old teacher out of college told him , "hey you better get them girls while you young but don't love em" ,, What if I told him different? Even simple things, like a higher than normal interest rate because of the greed , buying electronics on credit, a car without saving up for a down payment because "im bored with this car I need a truck"! ........What am I going to tell my kids when I advise them to wait until marriage for sex and they ask if that's what I did? Yes GOD forgave me for my sins and is forgiving the ones to come but my finances, kids, student, credit, is still effected! You look at sin differently when you look at it as leaving scars on your life , and on the people around you life!
GOD BLESS!!
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Im No Apologetic But I Know JESUS !
I was enthrawled with a commenter to a post I wrote about Psalms 22. I am running late for Church but I felt the LORD wanted me to write this below, I wanted to give an opurtunity for my brothers and sisters around the world to read it too. Please take time to read and reflect. GOD BLESS
im no apologetic, I had many years trying to break down the Bible in technicalities, (my grandfather is a imean of sorts, most of the males in my fathers side is as well including him) I came to the conclusion that I cant use facts, that was the basis of the argument against (the people of the book) but I know JESUS is the stumbling block, I simply know that the greatest folly of men is to measure worthiness for heaven , I know Islam preaches that heaven depends on Allah mercy but miss the point that point that GOD has already shown mercy if you just lean on faith and not human understanding, thats the beauty of the GOSPEL, thats the beauty of Faith, as I was helping to relate the Quran to english readers in a book for a job in my younger years, GOD began revealing JESUS to me as I read we in the Quran. I began much prayer and it all began to make sense to me, trying to achieve heaven is a endless journey in which leads to utter failure, but accepting that it has already been done give me a sense of peace, and then being filled with the HOLY SPIRIT (the true helper JESUS was referring to) give me guidance through my day including the decision to reply before going to Church today. Satan has made a small difference like "recognizing JESUS as GOD in the flesh and key to salvation" a small difference, which is the greatest lie because that difference is all that matters. On a side note, David is poetic, JESUS was treated as a warm as he was spit on , beaten , mocked and laughed at , hung from a cross to be mocked further while experiencing a slow gruesome death, no way to treat a king , yet alone the KING of Kings. Thank you for inspiring me to write this, I pray you read more of my Biblical reflection. GOD BLESS
im no apologetic, I had many years trying to break down the Bible in technicalities, (my grandfather is a imean of sorts, most of the males in my fathers side is as well including him) I came to the conclusion that I cant use facts, that was the basis of the argument against (the people of the book) but I know JESUS is the stumbling block, I simply know that the greatest folly of men is to measure worthiness for heaven , I know Islam preaches that heaven depends on Allah mercy but miss the point that point that GOD has already shown mercy if you just lean on faith and not human understanding, thats the beauty of the GOSPEL, thats the beauty of Faith, as I was helping to relate the Quran to english readers in a book for a job in my younger years, GOD began revealing JESUS to me as I read we in the Quran. I began much prayer and it all began to make sense to me, trying to achieve heaven is a endless journey in which leads to utter failure, but accepting that it has already been done give me a sense of peace, and then being filled with the HOLY SPIRIT (the true helper JESUS was referring to) give me guidance through my day including the decision to reply before going to Church today. Satan has made a small difference like "recognizing JESUS as GOD in the flesh and key to salvation" a small difference, which is the greatest lie because that difference is all that matters. On a side note, David is poetic, JESUS was treated as a warm as he was spit on , beaten , mocked and laughed at , hung from a cross to be mocked further while experiencing a slow gruesome death, no way to treat a king , yet alone the KING of Kings. Thank you for inspiring me to write this, I pray you read more of my Biblical reflection. GOD BLESS
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Sunday Reflection 12/17/13 Matthew 1:18-25
Matthew 1:18-25
This past Sunday we discussed the faithfulness of Joseph for sticking with Mary even though she was having a child that was not his own. He had to trust that JESUS was a miracoulus birth. Not only did he stay with her when he wouldve been looked at as right to divorce her, he married her and did not have sex with her until after JESUS was born. This touched on how Joseph had other plans like you and I have a life plan but GOD will interupt it at times to do his will in our life! We also touched on the importance of JESUS being born to a virgin mother because the sin is in the seed of a man. The pastor brought up a good point on how the devil want to attack the purity of Marry beucase he knows that the sin is in the seed but JESUS was not born of man so he was born blameless. HE didn't need salvation, one because he is GOD , and two because HE was not born into sin! Just like last week , JESUS is doubly covered!
It was important for me to listen to this sermon because I too foolishly make plans at time for my life as if I am in control. It is almost as if I am telling GOD that I dont have room for HIM to make room to do his work in my life. I am not GOD I am not in control. I dont want to let my flesh and my foolish man negate what GOD has planned for me. It is funny too because GOD has a way of making room when he desires despite what we think! I want to be faithful to bend when GOD tells me to. I have to be sure to be focused on what GOD will is in the life HE gave me!
The story of JESUS is so amazing. When you dive into the BIBLE you realize just how beautiful the narrative of JESUS really is. The beauty is in the details as well like the VIRGIN birth. I keep thinking since the sermon and I touched on it last week, how darkness is on full attack! We have to be sure not sow seeds of doubt. A good enemy want strike hard in a way to see you coming. It is more effective to remove one screw at a time, weaken the armor a little at a time , then we will be destroyed. We have seen it from a Dallas episode being aired in Communist Russia, pamphlets spread by Lutherans across Germany, Vandals on the outskirts of the Roman Empire, Marriages between Hebrews and Syrians from the North, ,,,now that movie, that historical mini series, that lesson from that out the box teacher, that cousin who said she should be able to love, the book that said there is no real truth,,that website you can just click, your not actually touching,, hmmm the Kingdom of GOD is under attack! Im not one to predict the end of the world. I believe we don't know and our perception of the last days are relative, but we are under attack We pray for strength remember Mark 13! AMEN
This past Sunday we discussed the faithfulness of Joseph for sticking with Mary even though she was having a child that was not his own. He had to trust that JESUS was a miracoulus birth. Not only did he stay with her when he wouldve been looked at as right to divorce her, he married her and did not have sex with her until after JESUS was born. This touched on how Joseph had other plans like you and I have a life plan but GOD will interupt it at times to do his will in our life! We also touched on the importance of JESUS being born to a virgin mother because the sin is in the seed of a man. The pastor brought up a good point on how the devil want to attack the purity of Marry beucase he knows that the sin is in the seed but JESUS was not born of man so he was born blameless. HE didn't need salvation, one because he is GOD , and two because HE was not born into sin! Just like last week , JESUS is doubly covered!
It was important for me to listen to this sermon because I too foolishly make plans at time for my life as if I am in control. It is almost as if I am telling GOD that I dont have room for HIM to make room to do his work in my life. I am not GOD I am not in control. I dont want to let my flesh and my foolish man negate what GOD has planned for me. It is funny too because GOD has a way of making room when he desires despite what we think! I want to be faithful to bend when GOD tells me to. I have to be sure to be focused on what GOD will is in the life HE gave me!
The story of JESUS is so amazing. When you dive into the BIBLE you realize just how beautiful the narrative of JESUS really is. The beauty is in the details as well like the VIRGIN birth. I keep thinking since the sermon and I touched on it last week, how darkness is on full attack! We have to be sure not sow seeds of doubt. A good enemy want strike hard in a way to see you coming. It is more effective to remove one screw at a time, weaken the armor a little at a time , then we will be destroyed. We have seen it from a Dallas episode being aired in Communist Russia, pamphlets spread by Lutherans across Germany, Vandals on the outskirts of the Roman Empire, Marriages between Hebrews and Syrians from the North, ,,,now that movie, that historical mini series, that lesson from that out the box teacher, that cousin who said she should be able to love, the book that said there is no real truth,,that website you can just click, your not actually touching,, hmmm the Kingdom of GOD is under attack! Im not one to predict the end of the world. I believe we don't know and our perception of the last days are relative, but we are under attack We pray for strength remember Mark 13! AMEN
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
something to think about: Happy JESUS DAY!
This past week my pastor had me thinking about something very powerful. Now that its Christmas Season what are we going to do? We give gifts to sinners of darkness and don't share JESUS. My job has secret santa, no mention of JESUS, if your secret santa dies tonight where are they going? Lets take Christmas back,, Atheist are serious about Christmas, they are on the attack,,ie "seasons greetings" . I never see people hesitate to say they are not a believer , or that they think the Bible isnt true, why do we hesitate to say we believe? Darkness never been bashful , always bold! If it wasn't that serious they would not try to stop Christians from saying Merry Christmas. Or better yet , Happy JESUS DAY! I know we have the intellectuals that want to point out the negative historical origins of Christmas, but that is all the more reason we can use JESUS to transform it into a beautiful celebration of the ultimate gift, our salvation. GOD did it already when he Repackaged our sinful nature into his image, worthy of heaven. I need some more family members in the family of CHRIST! Lets get on it! AMEN! GOD BLESS
Sermon Reflection 12/8
This was a good sermon about Matthew 1:1-17 "The Tree"
The sermon focused on 2 trees in our lives. We first addressed how Matthew went through the family line of JESUS. The pastor talked about how JESUS was twice qualified to be the savior due to Joseph through David's son and Mary through marriage. It was a lot of factual background for this sermon but in summation it addressed how from Abraham to David, they often predicted how one day a Savior will emerged from among them! This was amazing when we think about the foretelling of JESUS CHRIST! The unsaved who claim to know GOD don't pay attention that. This is all the good stuff.
Like our families JESUS family had a lot of dirt on their record. We can look at the prostitutes, murderers, adulterers, idol worshipers, you name it. This hits home for me!
We lastly touched on the second tree. We are HIS children! We are in GODS family! We have the blessing of knowing that we are all family in CHRIST so we can always be proud!
The dirty family hit home with me. Living as an African American I am faced with so much hurt and disgrace in my family. My family has always taught me self pride and not to fit into the racist stereotypes for my race but I was inundated with negative contradictions to my parents teaching as I consumed media and interacted with my peers. Unfortunately even from some family members negative influence despite my parents attempt to shield me from it. I walked the border line of being ashamed of my association with the negative perception that comes with the skin im clothed with but what keeps me going is what my mom taught me, more importantly what my GOD tells me in the Bible! My tree contributed to what I am! I understand the history of my race leaning on GOD when this world seemed against them. Singing songs of faith and finding courage and dignity when no one taught them that but GOD! Not accepting racist beliefs that they where incapable of education and organization but educational and organizational institutions where led by GOD's people! GOD used that tree to make me who I am and I shall stand strong. My maternal grandmother hummed hyms in the morning, and my paternal grandmother told me to read proverbs every night. My mom was validictorian and father woke me up most mornings before he went to work everyday. My mom tauhgt me it was not cool to not know so even though I didnt go to church as a youth I began trying to read this Bible people talk about. The Jews in the old testament lauded their history despite the oppression, wickedness, and suffering. They felt they where children of GOD. I am a Child of GOD so why hold my head down. GOD shown grace to make me who I am! I'm typing comfortably inside my personal classroom on my laptop and its 12 degrees outside, I am fully clothed and thinking about how long do I have before my wife and kids will be waiting for me! The greatest part is that I am on here boasting about the LORD!!! HIS GRACE IS SUFFICIENT! I don't deserve it but GOD BLESSED ME! I don't have a criminal history GRACE! GOD gave me those grandparents, and parents! GOD chose me to type this , he set it all up perfectly! I didn't have to come from some elite family, I didn't have to have a Pious parent. HIS GRACE IS SUFFICIENT. My pastor kept saying it and it makes since!
Now to the second tree! I didn't ask my father to meet my mom and have me! They came to that... Lets bring it to a spiritual level, I didn't say , ok I'm going to live sinfully have some fun and get saved, no GOD CHOSE ME! HE said before I was born that I was going to be HIS. HE is my FATHER! I was prepared before hand. When my children mess up, they are still my child, when my child disrespects me, they are still my child, when my children need me , they are still my broken children. No matter what they do , they are sealed as my children, but I'm just a steward there is a greater father ,,,this is why I smile,,,,GOD said Im HIS child! THANK YOU FATHER! AMEN.. .
The sermon focused on 2 trees in our lives. We first addressed how Matthew went through the family line of JESUS. The pastor talked about how JESUS was twice qualified to be the savior due to Joseph through David's son and Mary through marriage. It was a lot of factual background for this sermon but in summation it addressed how from Abraham to David, they often predicted how one day a Savior will emerged from among them! This was amazing when we think about the foretelling of JESUS CHRIST! The unsaved who claim to know GOD don't pay attention that. This is all the good stuff.
Like our families JESUS family had a lot of dirt on their record. We can look at the prostitutes, murderers, adulterers, idol worshipers, you name it. This hits home for me!
We lastly touched on the second tree. We are HIS children! We are in GODS family! We have the blessing of knowing that we are all family in CHRIST so we can always be proud!
The dirty family hit home with me. Living as an African American I am faced with so much hurt and disgrace in my family. My family has always taught me self pride and not to fit into the racist stereotypes for my race but I was inundated with negative contradictions to my parents teaching as I consumed media and interacted with my peers. Unfortunately even from some family members negative influence despite my parents attempt to shield me from it. I walked the border line of being ashamed of my association with the negative perception that comes with the skin im clothed with but what keeps me going is what my mom taught me, more importantly what my GOD tells me in the Bible! My tree contributed to what I am! I understand the history of my race leaning on GOD when this world seemed against them. Singing songs of faith and finding courage and dignity when no one taught them that but GOD! Not accepting racist beliefs that they where incapable of education and organization but educational and organizational institutions where led by GOD's people! GOD used that tree to make me who I am and I shall stand strong. My maternal grandmother hummed hyms in the morning, and my paternal grandmother told me to read proverbs every night. My mom was validictorian and father woke me up most mornings before he went to work everyday. My mom tauhgt me it was not cool to not know so even though I didnt go to church as a youth I began trying to read this Bible people talk about. The Jews in the old testament lauded their history despite the oppression, wickedness, and suffering. They felt they where children of GOD. I am a Child of GOD so why hold my head down. GOD shown grace to make me who I am! I'm typing comfortably inside my personal classroom on my laptop and its 12 degrees outside, I am fully clothed and thinking about how long do I have before my wife and kids will be waiting for me! The greatest part is that I am on here boasting about the LORD!!! HIS GRACE IS SUFFICIENT! I don't deserve it but GOD BLESSED ME! I don't have a criminal history GRACE! GOD gave me those grandparents, and parents! GOD chose me to type this , he set it all up perfectly! I didn't have to come from some elite family, I didn't have to have a Pious parent. HIS GRACE IS SUFFICIENT. My pastor kept saying it and it makes since!
Now to the second tree! I didn't ask my father to meet my mom and have me! They came to that... Lets bring it to a spiritual level, I didn't say , ok I'm going to live sinfully have some fun and get saved, no GOD CHOSE ME! HE said before I was born that I was going to be HIS. HE is my FATHER! I was prepared before hand. When my children mess up, they are still my child, when my child disrespects me, they are still my child, when my children need me , they are still my broken children. No matter what they do , they are sealed as my children, but I'm just a steward there is a greater father ,,,this is why I smile,,,,GOD said Im HIS child! THANK YOU FATHER! AMEN.. .
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Sermon reflection 11/24/13 Ananias meets Paul
Acts 9:17-22
The past sermon spoke to me a great deal. The sermon addressed Ananias meeting Paul for the first time and the veil being lifted off Pauls eyes allowing him to immediately go out and talk about JESUS! The pastor used this scripture to have us reflect back to when we became saved! HE also used this to talk about how we should approach other new Christians, what we like to call "babys in Christ". The last part was used to address the immediacy of GOD! We need to follow GODS commands because they are not a suggestion.
Thinking back when I was first saved I like to smile. Its funny because the vision in my head is a distraught Kid angry at everyone, feeling lonely and driving to work crying. .. In my head I was contemplating how I wish it was all over and how no one could help me and while driving down a long neglected road I began crying out to GOD asking for deliverance. My eyes became open when I knew that I had a father in heaven that loves me and is there for me through thick n then and that's what JESUS was telling us. As I grew further in CHRIST he began to lift the scale more and more.
I remember I used to listen to JAYZ chanting the words "hova" to his lyrics. My sister was upset because he was calling himself GOD and I defended it as if it wasn't really that serious,, I didn't know that I shouldn't allow anyone to even toy with the greatness of my father but again I say I had scales over my eyes! I now find myself in righteous anger, and sorrow, as I see the media making light at blasphemous monikers, claims, which craft, homosexuality, humanism, greed, etc...
The next thing was how I know I have to be patient with new believers. I have to understand that most people drop out of the Church and become distant from the Church body because we are judging them with log filled eyes! Like I said I was a believer first but I was still listening to Jay Z. I still have things GOD is working on because if we was able to be perfect we wouldn't need grace. I thank GOD for HIS grace! Ananias approached Paul with "brother" showing him love as if he belongs. I need to make sure I consider my fellow Christians brother, family. There was a time when I had little desire to fellowship with other members of my Chruch but I see the deeper I devote myself to the LORD , the more I enjoy the company of my Church brethren. I am so happy to be apart of the mens small group and I am now trying to approach them more on a personal level. It's deep to think about who we rather spend time with and wonder if that is a reflection of our Christian walk.
Today was a good example of following the immediacy of GOD! I know I have a habit at times of setting a schedule to when I am going to work on a certain aspect of my Christian walk. The pastor noted how the Bible never asked the disciples to do something if they can get around to it. I know I was putting off talking to a certain family member about a certain situation that I was putting off because I didn't feel comfortable at the time even though I kept feeling nudged by the HOLY SPIRIT. I had to stop telling GOD I was to scared , and say Yes! I feel better now and I am so glad I did! What have you been putting off? Have you said , "I'm going to start going to Church more next year" I'm going to tithe better next year" etc etc... When we are instructed to do something we do it.
This also goes to spreading the Gospel. When we are truly saved , we already have what we need to spread. People need to hear the Gospel:
GOD so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son JESUS CHRIST , who is Emmanuel, GOD on earth who promised salvation to those who believe in HIM, thus filling them with the third part of the trinity of GOD , the HOLY SPIRIT that makes us pure before HIS throne, and that those who do not believe will be destined to the pitt of hell, and only believers will have ever lasting life in heaven. AMEN ..
I love typing that, the rest of the job is living a life that exemplifies the HOLY SPIRIT within you! From my experience , the way we live our life helps people to ask questions which allows you to spread this Gospel, and the Gospel inspires people to examine your life giving you a chance to prove it.
There was a lot of information and topics in this sermon but it was so helpful , in our Christian walk. Over this thanksgiving break seize this moment brothers and sisters. GOD BLESS
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Sermon Reflection 11/17/13
Today we had our Elder preach because our senior pastor was out doing a guess sermon for his former Church. I was delighted to hear because our elder is well versed and passionate about the LORD so I am sure he will always submit as GOD use him to spread HIS word.
Today's sermon was from Galatians 2:19-20 and it addressed our understanding of JESUS SACRIFICE for us. He addressed how we need to be dead to ourselves so that we may live in JESUS. Paul is a perfect example of someone who can live flawlessly before the law but we are still blemished and far from perfection because GOD is perfection so we are all given the gift of Grace! He pointed out how we sometimes full ourselves into thinking we was actually doing something good, and looking down at others as if we got it together. We where forced to look out what part of us do we refuse to let die so that we can let JESUS rule more in our life. We was reminded how grateful we should be that JESUS forgave our debt and gave us new bodies to appear before the throne of GOD flawless even though we did nothing to deserve.
What an Awesome GOD so merciful and graceful! I get excited thinking about it. The thing the unsaved miss out on, is the beauty and happiness one receive when you realize that you don't have to worry if your good enough, smart enough , wise enough,,, you just have to understand humbly that its not about you, GOD chose you anyway! Its such a hard thing to accept because our flesh and society is built up on people working for a blessing, or because someone owes it to us, but GOD didn't owe us anything , we owed him and he forgave us anyway!
I caught a Rhema word when Elder asked if it may be a gadget or something I want to get that takes away my worship of GOD. I reflected before that I worry about that thin line between being enthusiastic about tech vs worshiping it. I can only serve one god and I choose the ALMIGHTY GOD !
I was challenged with the looking down on people part of the sermon today. As I got home I got reminded of a recent facebook post that reminds me of a sinful nature causing discussion in the family. I tisk tisk as I must pray that I am attacking the sin not the person , and if I am being sure to look at my log before I preoccupy with someone else s sin, regardless if its blatant or not.
We hear the following often but its so crucial that we constantly think about it and reflect on it in all we do.
I have a sinful nature but GOD has saved me through the blood of JESUS CHRIST his only begotten son, GOD in the flesh sent to earth so that I may be saved and filled with his HOLY SPIRIT.
Today's sermon was from Galatians 2:19-20 and it addressed our understanding of JESUS SACRIFICE for us. He addressed how we need to be dead to ourselves so that we may live in JESUS. Paul is a perfect example of someone who can live flawlessly before the law but we are still blemished and far from perfection because GOD is perfection so we are all given the gift of Grace! He pointed out how we sometimes full ourselves into thinking we was actually doing something good, and looking down at others as if we got it together. We where forced to look out what part of us do we refuse to let die so that we can let JESUS rule more in our life. We was reminded how grateful we should be that JESUS forgave our debt and gave us new bodies to appear before the throne of GOD flawless even though we did nothing to deserve.
What an Awesome GOD so merciful and graceful! I get excited thinking about it. The thing the unsaved miss out on, is the beauty and happiness one receive when you realize that you don't have to worry if your good enough, smart enough , wise enough,,, you just have to understand humbly that its not about you, GOD chose you anyway! Its such a hard thing to accept because our flesh and society is built up on people working for a blessing, or because someone owes it to us, but GOD didn't owe us anything , we owed him and he forgave us anyway!
I caught a Rhema word when Elder asked if it may be a gadget or something I want to get that takes away my worship of GOD. I reflected before that I worry about that thin line between being enthusiastic about tech vs worshiping it. I can only serve one god and I choose the ALMIGHTY GOD !
I was challenged with the looking down on people part of the sermon today. As I got home I got reminded of a recent facebook post that reminds me of a sinful nature causing discussion in the family. I tisk tisk as I must pray that I am attacking the sin not the person , and if I am being sure to look at my log before I preoccupy with someone else s sin, regardless if its blatant or not.
We hear the following often but its so crucial that we constantly think about it and reflect on it in all we do.
I have a sinful nature but GOD has saved me through the blood of JESUS CHRIST his only begotten son, GOD in the flesh sent to earth so that I may be saved and filled with his HOLY SPIRIT.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Sermon reflection 11/3/13 even they too can be saved..
Acts 9:1-6
Yesterdays sermon was about Pauls conversion! We only talked about the beginning of his change because the focus was on who he was and how he was saved. This is one of the most unlikely people to convert to Christianity but he did. The pastor pointed out how he was a leading pharisee who studied under the most talented teachers and shown a special zeal for persecuting Christians but he was still able to be saved. JESUS asked why was he persecuting HIM and Paul was changed!! The pastor used this to illustrate how JESUS saved a lot of us whom seem hopeless like SAUL but because of the Grace of GOD we have been saved in JESUS like Saul become Paul. He told us not to give up on others who we think is hopeless, who we think is to big of an enemy!
This sermon hits home with me! I have many muslims in my family from my fathers side and primarily its because of my grandfather who serves as the patriarch of the family. He is ill now and at one point we felt that he was close to death. I went to visit to him and prayed in silence when he was in the hospital bed. I feared praying out loud because of the reaction I might receive and then later I began thinking it would be no point to ask him about JESUS CHRIST. I feel ashamed at myself just typing it because it reminds me of the pacifism I am supposed to reject as a Child of GOD but it reveals what I need to pray and work on. MY grandfather is responsible for influencing many to reject the Gospel of JESUS but so did Paul. I know I shouldn't give up on him, he may be saved! Of course its all according to the will of GOD but I it may be his will to use me to share JESUS with him. The same goes for my father. I cant rest thinking that he is hopeless everyday that I have breath , every time I take the time to share my thoughts on the Bears , I can take that same time to share my thoughts on Salvation! Imagine if my Grandfather dies thanking JESUS for saving his soul, my father will hear it as JESUS reveals himself! My heart is pumping faster and my palms are growing sweaty as I grow in excitement, lets make a Paul out of the Saul in our life! AMEN GOD BLESS
Yesterdays sermon was about Pauls conversion! We only talked about the beginning of his change because the focus was on who he was and how he was saved. This is one of the most unlikely people to convert to Christianity but he did. The pastor pointed out how he was a leading pharisee who studied under the most talented teachers and shown a special zeal for persecuting Christians but he was still able to be saved. JESUS asked why was he persecuting HIM and Paul was changed!! The pastor used this to illustrate how JESUS saved a lot of us whom seem hopeless like SAUL but because of the Grace of GOD we have been saved in JESUS like Saul become Paul. He told us not to give up on others who we think is hopeless, who we think is to big of an enemy!
This sermon hits home with me! I have many muslims in my family from my fathers side and primarily its because of my grandfather who serves as the patriarch of the family. He is ill now and at one point we felt that he was close to death. I went to visit to him and prayed in silence when he was in the hospital bed. I feared praying out loud because of the reaction I might receive and then later I began thinking it would be no point to ask him about JESUS CHRIST. I feel ashamed at myself just typing it because it reminds me of the pacifism I am supposed to reject as a Child of GOD but it reveals what I need to pray and work on. MY grandfather is responsible for influencing many to reject the Gospel of JESUS but so did Paul. I know I shouldn't give up on him, he may be saved! Of course its all according to the will of GOD but I it may be his will to use me to share JESUS with him. The same goes for my father. I cant rest thinking that he is hopeless everyday that I have breath , every time I take the time to share my thoughts on the Bears , I can take that same time to share my thoughts on Salvation! Imagine if my Grandfather dies thanking JESUS for saving his soul, my father will hear it as JESUS reveals himself! My heart is pumping faster and my palms are growing sweaty as I grow in excitement, lets make a Paul out of the Saul in our life! AMEN GOD BLESS
Friday, October 25, 2013
Sunday Reflection Matthew 6:33-34
Mathew 6:33-34
This sermon was about how we are to put GOD first in all that we do.The pastor talked about how we like to talk about GOD is number one in our life but do we truly act that way? He gave us evidence on how we may not, such as: "saying I didn't have the time to pray this morning, our bank accounts show we give less than 10%, we will be embarrassed if people knew what was being said and practiced in our home. Do we actually live as if GOD is preeminent in our life or, is it just words.
I was thinking about this today when I noticed that it is now friday and I did not write my reflection yet. I know I was thinking I had a busy week because my whole household came down with a cold starting with me. I also said on top of that I had a hard week at work because I had to teach one of the hardest concepts in economics. I was in the midst of thinking this when I realized, I am stating things that got in the way in my worship to GOD. I know that my reflection is a tool I use to reflect on HIS word and grow in my walk in CHRIST but I neglected to do so after Church , I was foolish enough to call myself busy, as if this sermon went through one year and out the other. But I thank GOD for the HOLY SPIRIT! HE dwells in me so that I can feel when I am doing wrong, the conviction is a blessing so that I know I should have priorities. I know I wasn't that busy because I had time to live blog the Apple event! I have to be sure with this site not to cross the line between being an enthusiast of technology too being a worshiper of technology. I cant serve two gods!
I also was thinking about my bank statement. I know I foolishly found myself rationalizing that I should count 10 percent from what I have after my house and car. Because "those are things I have to have"....I was about to erase this part of my post because I know its a hot button for people but once again im convicted. The Bible predicts that we are to be considered not part of this world because this world is corrupt. This society is set up in a way that our home and taking care of our children comes up before we think about giving money to the church. So its basically saying society and taking care of my family comes before GOD. This is acting as though GOD is a little extra in our life, a little desert. I mean because c-mon we got to have balance, we cant go crazy with this faith stuff right?...
I can talk a good game like I know many of you can talk a good game, but if we claim we trust GOD and we know the BIBLE is truth, do we live by Mathew 6:33-34? Do we seek the Kingdom of GOD first when we get paid or do we head to the grocery store and pay are bills because we worried about where we going to eat and sleep tomorrow? ,,,,,,,, GOD BLESS
This sermon was about how we are to put GOD first in all that we do.The pastor talked about how we like to talk about GOD is number one in our life but do we truly act that way? He gave us evidence on how we may not, such as: "saying I didn't have the time to pray this morning, our bank accounts show we give less than 10%, we will be embarrassed if people knew what was being said and practiced in our home. Do we actually live as if GOD is preeminent in our life or, is it just words.
I was thinking about this today when I noticed that it is now friday and I did not write my reflection yet. I know I was thinking I had a busy week because my whole household came down with a cold starting with me. I also said on top of that I had a hard week at work because I had to teach one of the hardest concepts in economics. I was in the midst of thinking this when I realized, I am stating things that got in the way in my worship to GOD. I know that my reflection is a tool I use to reflect on HIS word and grow in my walk in CHRIST but I neglected to do so after Church , I was foolish enough to call myself busy, as if this sermon went through one year and out the other. But I thank GOD for the HOLY SPIRIT! HE dwells in me so that I can feel when I am doing wrong, the conviction is a blessing so that I know I should have priorities. I know I wasn't that busy because I had time to live blog the Apple event! I have to be sure with this site not to cross the line between being an enthusiast of technology too being a worshiper of technology. I cant serve two gods!
I also was thinking about my bank statement. I know I foolishly found myself rationalizing that I should count 10 percent from what I have after my house and car. Because "those are things I have to have"....I was about to erase this part of my post because I know its a hot button for people but once again im convicted. The Bible predicts that we are to be considered not part of this world because this world is corrupt. This society is set up in a way that our home and taking care of our children comes up before we think about giving money to the church. So its basically saying society and taking care of my family comes before GOD. This is acting as though GOD is a little extra in our life, a little desert. I mean because c-mon we got to have balance, we cant go crazy with this faith stuff right?...
I can talk a good game like I know many of you can talk a good game, but if we claim we trust GOD and we know the BIBLE is truth, do we live by Mathew 6:33-34? Do we seek the Kingdom of GOD first when we get paid or do we head to the grocery store and pay are bills because we worried about where we going to eat and sleep tomorrow? ,,,,,,,, GOD BLESS
Monday, October 14, 2013
Sunday Reflection 10/13 Faith Warriors
II Kings 2:9-11
This past Sunday we was given a lesson about the last day that Elisha had with Elijah. This was the verse when Elisha asks for a double portion which meant an inheritance as a son according to Jewish tradition and then a recognition by Elijah that its not up to him but its up to GOD. The pastor noted how Elijah left the world as a faithful warrior. In a glorious exit. What stuck with me most about the sermon was the call to be faithful warriors! We was told that GOD don't want us to get the scraps of the table like when we ask for a new car, a good job, a new house. We should be asking for things of GOD things that glorify GOD! This was almost like a continuation of last week when we learned about how we should dream big.
I was thinking through the week if I am living as a normal christian or a Faithful Warrior. I am now praising GOD that he has made me grow to the point when I now share the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST, I openly say Praise GOD instead of "whew I'm lucky" . I use online to do more than share funny pictures and interesting quips, but its not about what I do good, its about what I can do more!
I need to push further and stop talking about how I'm tired at work, how I'm broke and happy its pay day, you know, complain ,complain,complain.. How do I show I am a child of GOD a faithful servant, if I am complaining like everyone else. What about careers, should I be happy I get a 20 - 30 views of this post or should I be expecting thousands tune in to hear the good word of GOD? Will this just be a hobby or do I know GOD can use me as a vessel to reach thousands. That student I have that I just know going to be a future prisoner, do GOD want me to be a vessel to help him be the next evangelist?
My sinful flesh want to say, well if GOD wants me to do this and that why its so hard, but reflecting on the sermon and the Bible I have to once again remember doing GODs work take time and steadfastness. The pastor illustrated a great description of pizza, needing to be pounded and press before we get the good stuff, the pepperoni,cheese, and veggies in life! Reading this hopefully your doing like me while typing this, its time to stop being small minded think BIG, WARRIORS COME OUT TO PRAYYY hahaha GOD BLESS
This past Sunday we was given a lesson about the last day that Elisha had with Elijah. This was the verse when Elisha asks for a double portion which meant an inheritance as a son according to Jewish tradition and then a recognition by Elijah that its not up to him but its up to GOD. The pastor noted how Elijah left the world as a faithful warrior. In a glorious exit. What stuck with me most about the sermon was the call to be faithful warriors! We was told that GOD don't want us to get the scraps of the table like when we ask for a new car, a good job, a new house. We should be asking for things of GOD things that glorify GOD! This was almost like a continuation of last week when we learned about how we should dream big.
I was thinking through the week if I am living as a normal christian or a Faithful Warrior. I am now praising GOD that he has made me grow to the point when I now share the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST, I openly say Praise GOD instead of "whew I'm lucky" . I use online to do more than share funny pictures and interesting quips, but its not about what I do good, its about what I can do more!
I need to push further and stop talking about how I'm tired at work, how I'm broke and happy its pay day, you know, complain ,complain,complain.. How do I show I am a child of GOD a faithful servant, if I am complaining like everyone else. What about careers, should I be happy I get a 20 - 30 views of this post or should I be expecting thousands tune in to hear the good word of GOD? Will this just be a hobby or do I know GOD can use me as a vessel to reach thousands. That student I have that I just know going to be a future prisoner, do GOD want me to be a vessel to help him be the next evangelist?
My sinful flesh want to say, well if GOD wants me to do this and that why its so hard, but reflecting on the sermon and the Bible I have to once again remember doing GODs work take time and steadfastness. The pastor illustrated a great description of pizza, needing to be pounded and press before we get the good stuff, the pepperoni,cheese, and veggies in life! Reading this hopefully your doing like me while typing this, its time to stop being small minded think BIG, WARRIORS COME OUT TO PRAYYY hahaha GOD BLESS
Thursday, October 10, 2013
reflection on Sunday 10/6/2013 fulfilling the Dream
2 Kings 2:1-5
My understanding of the sermon was a lesson on following GOD without complaint. I know we have a tendency to give up and get angry when GOD tells us to do something but we have to follow him steadfastly without complaint. The sermon touched on how when GOD gives us a dream , it is important for us to not give up on the dream. I loved the points that the pastor mentioned using references to Noah, Abraham, Joseph
Those points things make people shy away from the dreams that GOD gives us, it makes people give up on our true calling but we must keep on like Elisha, when Elijah was testing him telling him to give up to stay put and allow him to go alone , Elisha didn't, he knew his mission was not complete! He knew it may be stumbles, he knew it may seem like its hopeless, but the important thing is to keep on pushing because he knew GOD wanted him to!
I think about how I have seen miracles happen in my life. When things went well only because of the grace of GOD. I knew I could not explain it with common logic! I look at even my family and my eyes grow watery as I gaze upon my wife and kids knowing that I don't deserve them but GOD blessed me with them. How I received degrees not being that smart, how I could have been shot but GOD stopped the person ahead of time, how a kid with low self confidence is able to teach hundreds of kids over the years! The blessings are endless!
Now I have to think about how I need to dream bigger. I need to talk to GOD and sincerely ask what is it he wants me to do so that I can truly bring GLORY and honor to him! I have poor grammar, bad spelling , and speech issues but I know GOD will enable me to use the internet as a platform to spread the GOSPEL and provide a tech enthusiast community who is committed to serving the LORD. It doesn't make sense for me to be successful in tech, I'm already in my 30s without a tech degree but I know GOD will make sense of the nonsensical. I have to be patient, work is hard, math is harder, but I want to learn this tech! I cant give up! If Noah can build a boat for over a hundred years when it has never been rain, and Joseph can face obstacle after obstacle, I can surely wait for people to take notice of Tech Blog aimed at Christians!
Think tonight or even as you read this, what is a BIG DREAM GOD has for you something that seems out of reach , that may take a long time to fulfill, that will cause trouble in your life , but most importantly give HONOR and GLORY to OUR FATHER in HEAVEN in JESUS name I pray AMEN!
My understanding of the sermon was a lesson on following GOD without complaint. I know we have a tendency to give up and get angry when GOD tells us to do something but we have to follow him steadfastly without complaint. The sermon touched on how when GOD gives us a dream , it is important for us to not give up on the dream. I loved the points that the pastor mentioned using references to Noah, Abraham, Joseph
- Often times the dream will seem to be unattainable by our standards
- Often times the dream will take a while to be fulfilled
- Often times the dream will hit roadblocks or stumbles
Those points things make people shy away from the dreams that GOD gives us, it makes people give up on our true calling but we must keep on like Elisha, when Elijah was testing him telling him to give up to stay put and allow him to go alone , Elisha didn't, he knew his mission was not complete! He knew it may be stumbles, he knew it may seem like its hopeless, but the important thing is to keep on pushing because he knew GOD wanted him to!
I think about how I have seen miracles happen in my life. When things went well only because of the grace of GOD. I knew I could not explain it with common logic! I look at even my family and my eyes grow watery as I gaze upon my wife and kids knowing that I don't deserve them but GOD blessed me with them. How I received degrees not being that smart, how I could have been shot but GOD stopped the person ahead of time, how a kid with low self confidence is able to teach hundreds of kids over the years! The blessings are endless!
Now I have to think about how I need to dream bigger. I need to talk to GOD and sincerely ask what is it he wants me to do so that I can truly bring GLORY and honor to him! I have poor grammar, bad spelling , and speech issues but I know GOD will enable me to use the internet as a platform to spread the GOSPEL and provide a tech enthusiast community who is committed to serving the LORD. It doesn't make sense for me to be successful in tech, I'm already in my 30s without a tech degree but I know GOD will make sense of the nonsensical. I have to be patient, work is hard, math is harder, but I want to learn this tech! I cant give up! If Noah can build a boat for over a hundred years when it has never been rain, and Joseph can face obstacle after obstacle, I can surely wait for people to take notice of Tech Blog aimed at Christians!
Think tonight or even as you read this, what is a BIG DREAM GOD has for you something that seems out of reach , that may take a long time to fulfill, that will cause trouble in your life , but most importantly give HONOR and GLORY to OUR FATHER in HEAVEN in JESUS name I pray AMEN!
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Sunday reflection 9/29
1 Kings 19:19-21
INSANELY COMMITTED
Todays sermon was about how Elisha followed Elijah as Elijah prepared him to take over GODs mission for his people. The pastor named the sermon insanely committed. Elisha's reaction to Elijah show an insane commitment because like in his life many things GOD want us to do to serve him seems to be insane in the worlds view but its exactly what GOD wants from us! We are supposed to stand out and work hard and go beyond the worlds concept of commitment. The pastor first talked about how Elijah knew he needed a helper because GOD told him to get a helper and a replacer. Then he spoke about how Elisha , seemingly a rich man left his many oxen prepared his parents and left on his way, challenging us to let go of everything and give all to GOD.
I know the "lone ranger" concept has had an effect in my life. I as a man adopt the lie of this world in assuming its not "manly" to lean on someone else. I feel that I am effectively performing as the spiritual leader of my family but I have to realize that I am falling short when I am not modeling the submission to GOD in the role of leaning on a spiritual partner in fellowship. My wife cant point to someone that she knows I talk to when I have a man matter! I have the pastor but do I have the fellowship and spiritual companionship outside my wife? I know the answer, and prayerfully I keep the commitment to garnering a new answer soon. I have to be obedient and not forsake the company of other brothers and sisters, not just my wife.
The next part of the sermon was an amazing tool used for me to reflect on my spiritual walk. Elisha let go of his oxen but do I still have oxen holding me back? I know I have been consciously working on cutting off the things that is not showing that I love the LORD. I reflect on my refusal to purchase the hottest new game. I may have mentioned it before but I was thinking to myself I cant claim I love the LORD and I am playing a game in which I can only win by pimping, murdering, and selling drugs. I liken that to my wife. I cant tell my wife I love her and spend my week watching porn. In both situations I can use the excuse, "I'm not actually doing it , its just fantasy , its just entertainment." ,,,I cant imagine my wife or my GOD believing I'm really in love! The pastor mentioned how we treat GOD like a girlfriend, we love the warm fuzzies we get like the spiritual high we get when the choir working, we like the weekend date like church , we like when she there when we need her like GOD in the hard times, but during the week, during the hard times, when the other things in our life want our attention, do we show that we are committed? I cant show GOD love when I want , we are his BRIDE!!! I have to serve GOD in all I do! This is the motivation of this blog, I know I love technology and social networking, I have an interest and understanding of geeky things and explaining why but I know I have to know even in doing so I can give glory to GOD! Even when Im doing this hobby, I am doing ministry trying to be insanely committed!
The last big thing was a small point of the sermon. Elisha kissed his father first. As a child I often hugged my father. He was there every day and shown a commitment to me as a son, the weird thing is I have allowed the devil's influence on our culture effect me as well in my relationship with my father. I still feel like we are closer than some but it was even taught to me by him, that my mom is the important one. That my mom is the affectionate one. I think the greatest effect of sin in our culture is the breakdown of manhood in our society. Manhood is the direct link to father hood. I have to be sure to recommit to GOD's design of fatherhood for my children! So that if GOD wills, they will grow up to be insanely committed to GOD in all aspects of life!
Lets leave all the things behind , lets stop dating GOD, lets give GOD more than free time and show off how much we love GOD to everyone we speak to like we show off our ring when we get married. This week, every time I mention my wife and kids, I will make a point to mention JESUS! GOD BLESS!
my interpretation and reflection of a sermon given by - Pastor Delbert Deny Jr.
INSANELY COMMITTED
Todays sermon was about how Elisha followed Elijah as Elijah prepared him to take over GODs mission for his people. The pastor named the sermon insanely committed. Elisha's reaction to Elijah show an insane commitment because like in his life many things GOD want us to do to serve him seems to be insane in the worlds view but its exactly what GOD wants from us! We are supposed to stand out and work hard and go beyond the worlds concept of commitment. The pastor first talked about how Elijah knew he needed a helper because GOD told him to get a helper and a replacer. Then he spoke about how Elisha , seemingly a rich man left his many oxen prepared his parents and left on his way, challenging us to let go of everything and give all to GOD.
I know the "lone ranger" concept has had an effect in my life. I as a man adopt the lie of this world in assuming its not "manly" to lean on someone else. I feel that I am effectively performing as the spiritual leader of my family but I have to realize that I am falling short when I am not modeling the submission to GOD in the role of leaning on a spiritual partner in fellowship. My wife cant point to someone that she knows I talk to when I have a man matter! I have the pastor but do I have the fellowship and spiritual companionship outside my wife? I know the answer, and prayerfully I keep the commitment to garnering a new answer soon. I have to be obedient and not forsake the company of other brothers and sisters, not just my wife.
The next part of the sermon was an amazing tool used for me to reflect on my spiritual walk. Elisha let go of his oxen but do I still have oxen holding me back? I know I have been consciously working on cutting off the things that is not showing that I love the LORD. I reflect on my refusal to purchase the hottest new game. I may have mentioned it before but I was thinking to myself I cant claim I love the LORD and I am playing a game in which I can only win by pimping, murdering, and selling drugs. I liken that to my wife. I cant tell my wife I love her and spend my week watching porn. In both situations I can use the excuse, "I'm not actually doing it , its just fantasy , its just entertainment." ,,,I cant imagine my wife or my GOD believing I'm really in love! The pastor mentioned how we treat GOD like a girlfriend, we love the warm fuzzies we get like the spiritual high we get when the choir working, we like the weekend date like church , we like when she there when we need her like GOD in the hard times, but during the week, during the hard times, when the other things in our life want our attention, do we show that we are committed? I cant show GOD love when I want , we are his BRIDE!!! I have to serve GOD in all I do! This is the motivation of this blog, I know I love technology and social networking, I have an interest and understanding of geeky things and explaining why but I know I have to know even in doing so I can give glory to GOD! Even when Im doing this hobby, I am doing ministry trying to be insanely committed!
The last big thing was a small point of the sermon. Elisha kissed his father first. As a child I often hugged my father. He was there every day and shown a commitment to me as a son, the weird thing is I have allowed the devil's influence on our culture effect me as well in my relationship with my father. I still feel like we are closer than some but it was even taught to me by him, that my mom is the important one. That my mom is the affectionate one. I think the greatest effect of sin in our culture is the breakdown of manhood in our society. Manhood is the direct link to father hood. I have to be sure to recommit to GOD's design of fatherhood for my children! So that if GOD wills, they will grow up to be insanely committed to GOD in all aspects of life!
Lets leave all the things behind , lets stop dating GOD, lets give GOD more than free time and show off how much we love GOD to everyone we speak to like we show off our ring when we get married. This week, every time I mention my wife and kids, I will make a point to mention JESUS! GOD BLESS!
my interpretation and reflection of a sermon given by - Pastor Delbert Deny Jr.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Sinday reflection 9/22
Scripture Kings 19:9-13
Todays sermon addressed how Elijah hid in the cave after being threatened by Jezebel. He talks about what he has done for GOD and even after an earthquake and seemingly volcano, he is a asked by GOD "WHY ARE YOU HERE?". The pastor used this scripture to address how we are in a cave at times when GOD sends us on a mission. This was deep because it forces you to ask yourself what are you running away from.
I was thinking about how far I should take this blog. Is GOD telling me to go to school to learn tech so that I can dedicate more time and resources in using the internet as a medium for spreading HIS WORD. I am a teacher by trade and I know I need to do more! I like when the pastor said our caves are the "well I can't, I coulda , I should a, if I had,,,,'blah blah . I know I delayed doing things because I think, "well I need to first do this and that." I often think I should do something but many times I don't. I no longer want to live in a cave.
The pastor wrapped up with an illustration of an egg, potatoes, and coffee e. All three find themselves in hot water but they respond differently. Eggs get hardened, potatoes get soft, but coffee makes something with the adversity it brings out its hidden potential. I always have to remember to be coffee, knowing GOD is using me to make something great!
GOD BLESS!
I was thinking about how far I should take this blog. Is GOD telling me to go to school to learn tech so that I can dedicate more time and resources in using the internet as a medium for spreading HIS WORD. I am a teacher by trade and I know I need to do more! I like when the pastor said our caves are the "well I can't, I coulda , I should a, if I had,,,,'blah blah . I know I delayed doing things because I think, "well I need to first do this and that." I often think I should do something but many times I don't. I no longer want to live in a cave.
The pastor wrapped up with an illustration of an egg, potatoes, and coffee e. All three find themselves in hot water but they respond differently. Eggs get hardened, potatoes get soft, but coffee makes something with the adversity it brings out its hidden potential. I always have to remember to be coffee, knowing GOD is using me to make something great!
GOD BLESS!
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Sunday Reflection 9/14
1 King 19:1-5
This was a story basically how Elijah got scared and ran for his life when Jezebel swore by her gods she will kill him. Our pastor applied it to a sermon about how we sometimes get back into our flesh and have fear when we know GOD blessed us and how when we start working in our own flesh and not of GOD we become depressed. He last touched on how in verse 5 the Angel comforts Elijah noting how sometimes we have to take a rest so we don't get burned out when working for the LORD and ask HIM for comfort when we find ourselves depressed.
I look at my own life at how it was times when I was depressed. The times seem even more harsh when I found the LORD and began striving to serve him yet I still get back depressed. I often think it is in times in my life when I become complacent in what I am doing and I tend to boast at least to myself on how much I grew in the LORD. Sometimes it happens when I foolishly pretend I asked GOD for direction when I really wasn't looking for HIS answer so I take things upon myself. I know that GOD wanted me to do big moves over the summer yet I delayed and now I find myself stressed about things that I may have avoided if I had only obeyed. I know that obedience is a ongoing struggle for us both new believers or so called veterans.
As a man I can sometimes distance myself from others trying to handle things myself thinking that its the manly thing to do. That's a foolish concept of men thinking that we are not to consult others and work with others when it comes to matters of faith just to preserve a sense of leadership. True leadership is modeling like GOD did as he came down as his son JESUS CHRIST to serve and show love. I know if I preach or testify on Christian brotherhood, I have to model it as well. Elijah committed that sin when he left his servant and went into the wilderness alone "woah is me.". .I need to have accountability partners in the Church when I find myself battling depression.
I also enjoyed taking time to look at Elijah talking as though he wanted to die. With the promise of being with my FATHER IN HEAVEN. It seems oh so sweet to fast forward to that day but that is selfish. GOD has saved me for so much more. A true believer is filled with the HOLY SPIRIT which gives us a desire to do GOD's will. We are to be beacons of light for the world so we are hear on a mission. I cant give up until my mission is complete. THANK YOU GOD FOR THIS TASK.
Finally I take comfort in knowing that I have to be ok with slowing down and pray for comfort. I think us Christian men want to serve so much that we overwhelm ourselves. We too soon foolishly think we are more than what we are. As if we don't have time to pray because, what would the world do without us. My wife lived 20+ years without me, she will be ok if I stay in the room once all morning praying intensely to GOD for comfort and direction. Every champion I hear or read about mentions the value of preparation. If we are going to be champions for CHRIST we must dedicate ourselves to preparation, and that preparation is prayer! Constantly searching for direction and comfort! GOD BLESS
This was a story basically how Elijah got scared and ran for his life when Jezebel swore by her gods she will kill him. Our pastor applied it to a sermon about how we sometimes get back into our flesh and have fear when we know GOD blessed us and how when we start working in our own flesh and not of GOD we become depressed. He last touched on how in verse 5 the Angel comforts Elijah noting how sometimes we have to take a rest so we don't get burned out when working for the LORD and ask HIM for comfort when we find ourselves depressed.
I look at my own life at how it was times when I was depressed. The times seem even more harsh when I found the LORD and began striving to serve him yet I still get back depressed. I often think it is in times in my life when I become complacent in what I am doing and I tend to boast at least to myself on how much I grew in the LORD. Sometimes it happens when I foolishly pretend I asked GOD for direction when I really wasn't looking for HIS answer so I take things upon myself. I know that GOD wanted me to do big moves over the summer yet I delayed and now I find myself stressed about things that I may have avoided if I had only obeyed. I know that obedience is a ongoing struggle for us both new believers or so called veterans.
As a man I can sometimes distance myself from others trying to handle things myself thinking that its the manly thing to do. That's a foolish concept of men thinking that we are not to consult others and work with others when it comes to matters of faith just to preserve a sense of leadership. True leadership is modeling like GOD did as he came down as his son JESUS CHRIST to serve and show love. I know if I preach or testify on Christian brotherhood, I have to model it as well. Elijah committed that sin when he left his servant and went into the wilderness alone "woah is me.". .I need to have accountability partners in the Church when I find myself battling depression.
I also enjoyed taking time to look at Elijah talking as though he wanted to die. With the promise of being with my FATHER IN HEAVEN. It seems oh so sweet to fast forward to that day but that is selfish. GOD has saved me for so much more. A true believer is filled with the HOLY SPIRIT which gives us a desire to do GOD's will. We are to be beacons of light for the world so we are hear on a mission. I cant give up until my mission is complete. THANK YOU GOD FOR THIS TASK.
Finally I take comfort in knowing that I have to be ok with slowing down and pray for comfort. I think us Christian men want to serve so much that we overwhelm ourselves. We too soon foolishly think we are more than what we are. As if we don't have time to pray because, what would the world do without us. My wife lived 20+ years without me, she will be ok if I stay in the room once all morning praying intensely to GOD for comfort and direction. Every champion I hear or read about mentions the value of preparation. If we are going to be champions for CHRIST we must dedicate ourselves to preparation, and that preparation is prayer! Constantly searching for direction and comfort! GOD BLESS
Monday, September 2, 2013
church reflection 9/1
I am sorry I am late but Americans know how it is on labor day weekend, the longest weekend of the year. That is not a good excuse for not doing GODS work and that's funny because that is sort of the topic of the sermon this past Sunday. Pastor talked about how Elijah sent a message to Ahab about how he cant serve both GOD and Baal who Ahab began to worship due to his wife Jezebel. The focus on the sermon was not riding the fence. Many of us professed Christian's unfortunately try to live on both sides the spiritual and the worldly life. We fear the thought of being a "Conservative Christian". I was just talking to a coworker of mine asking him if he was a believer and he began talking for 30 min about how yeah he believe but he is a lot different form people in his church because he is not going to ruin his life at the hope of the after life. Giving me an example saying that if there is a bears game at home he is always going to choose bears. He also said that he didn't want his daughter to be sheltered but he want her to believe, be a good person and live life. I was thinking the whole time....I tell GOD I believe and I love HIM but if my wife told me that but did things I did not like , would I believe her when she told me she love me?
Why would we want to give GOD less than what we deserve? Is it because we think HE wont do anything about it? Is that how we treat people we love? Is it OK to act single when your in a marriage? If your answer is no like my answer is no, then like me you need to look at your life , and see what can I do more to show GOD I LOVE HIM, if I'm not willing to do I really love HIM? I wouldn't give my all to my wife if I felt she was straddling the fence on if she wanted to live the single life or be married to me. I wouldn't want my wife if she was too scared to let people see she was crazy in love with me! I know that if that was the case I would grow apart from her, do you feel apart from GOD? ......
GOD BLESS
Why would we want to give GOD less than what we deserve? Is it because we think HE wont do anything about it? Is that how we treat people we love? Is it OK to act single when your in a marriage? If your answer is no like my answer is no, then like me you need to look at your life , and see what can I do more to show GOD I LOVE HIM, if I'm not willing to do I really love HIM? I wouldn't give my all to my wife if I felt she was straddling the fence on if she wanted to live the single life or be married to me. I wouldn't want my wife if she was too scared to let people see she was crazy in love with me! I know that if that was the case I would grow apart from her, do you feel apart from GOD? ......
GOD BLESS
Monday, August 26, 2013
Church reflection 8/25
1 Kings 17:17-24
Sundays sermon was about the story of Elijah being blamed for the death of the widows son but Elijah responded by taking her burden upon himself, going to the upper room, and praying to GOD resulting in the widows son being resurrected and the woman's testimony of faith!
I am writing this a day late. I spent the day with my family after Church h bbqing and loving them. I was thinking about how much I appreciate and love my family. Hearing about the story of the women who lost her child after being blessed by GOD with food to eat and help around the house. Pastor spoke about how often times we get angry fast when things go wrong and we all to soon forget how GOD blesses us when we are facing a problem. I was thinking how in the past I soon became discouraged when something didn't go my way but it is so important for me to remind myself constantly that I am blessed so I should never complain. The elder of our church often talks about how grateful people do not complain. I think that it is so important for me to reflect that I dishonor GOD when I complain.
The sermon also spoke about how when we are faced with obstacles , GOD is perfecting us for his glory. Faith is truly tested in the valley but our growth in that time of needs help us grow closer to GOD. None seem to be more hopeful than the ones who would other wise be hopeless! When the nurse told me that my baby boy was having trouble breathing when he was first born, I had no one to help me GOD. Think about your most intense moments of prayer.......
I also enjoyed the part of the sermon that talks about our reaction to adversity can be ministry. The end of the selection has the women testifying that she now knows that what Elijah spoke about when he spoke about GOD is the truth. When my sister accomplished much with a calm smile through every moment in our childhood, I knew that she must have been telling the truth when she said it was because of her relationship with GOD! wow even typing this I get emotional thinking about the glory we bring GOD by our behavior. Getting into heaven is a focus for those unsaved but once we in HIS grace we realize that this is just part of the story. We must finish with dedicating our life to showing GOD how much we love him with doing whatever we can to bring him the Glory in complete dependence! No one during Elijahs time and before ever rose someone from the dead, seem someone come back, but Elijah expected great things in complete submission to GOD and GOD made it so.
Our pastor asked when was the last time we prayed for a miracle, don't you dare think to start praying for finances, release of debt, loosing weight, blah blah blah, really bring GOD the glory and ask for a blessing for someone else so that they can reply, now I know the GOD you worship is REAL!
Sundays sermon was about the story of Elijah being blamed for the death of the widows son but Elijah responded by taking her burden upon himself, going to the upper room, and praying to GOD resulting in the widows son being resurrected and the woman's testimony of faith!
I am writing this a day late. I spent the day with my family after Church h bbqing and loving them. I was thinking about how much I appreciate and love my family. Hearing about the story of the women who lost her child after being blessed by GOD with food to eat and help around the house. Pastor spoke about how often times we get angry fast when things go wrong and we all to soon forget how GOD blesses us when we are facing a problem. I was thinking how in the past I soon became discouraged when something didn't go my way but it is so important for me to remind myself constantly that I am blessed so I should never complain. The elder of our church often talks about how grateful people do not complain. I think that it is so important for me to reflect that I dishonor GOD when I complain.
The sermon also spoke about how when we are faced with obstacles , GOD is perfecting us for his glory. Faith is truly tested in the valley but our growth in that time of needs help us grow closer to GOD. None seem to be more hopeful than the ones who would other wise be hopeless! When the nurse told me that my baby boy was having trouble breathing when he was first born, I had no one to help me GOD. Think about your most intense moments of prayer.......
I also enjoyed the part of the sermon that talks about our reaction to adversity can be ministry. The end of the selection has the women testifying that she now knows that what Elijah spoke about when he spoke about GOD is the truth. When my sister accomplished much with a calm smile through every moment in our childhood, I knew that she must have been telling the truth when she said it was because of her relationship with GOD! wow even typing this I get emotional thinking about the glory we bring GOD by our behavior. Getting into heaven is a focus for those unsaved but once we in HIS grace we realize that this is just part of the story. We must finish with dedicating our life to showing GOD how much we love him with doing whatever we can to bring him the Glory in complete dependence! No one during Elijahs time and before ever rose someone from the dead, seem someone come back, but Elijah expected great things in complete submission to GOD and GOD made it so.
Our pastor asked when was the last time we prayed for a miracle, don't you dare think to start praying for finances, release of debt, loosing weight, blah blah blah, really bring GOD the glory and ask for a blessing for someone else so that they can reply, now I know the GOD you worship is REAL!
Sunday, August 11, 2013
Today's Sermon
Finishing the Race!
2 Timothy 4:7-8
Today we talked about when Paul knew that he had finished the race, he fought a good fight. I thought today's sermon was amazing. We touched on how its all about how you finish. I have been reading Kings in depth and I see so many Kings who seem to start off well but end in a poor fashion and leave behind a legacy of sin. We often see these preachers that start of well and then the money and the fame corrupts them. I went on a rant on twitter at one point about how I used to be a big fan Kanye West and upheld him as a real MC and I really loved "JESUS WALKS" but now he seems lost and I see all these copy cat people that is making rap not only negative, (like it always been) but blasphemous. That is me looking at others but lets look at my thorn.
I often in the past year talked about perusing a new field and becoming tired at times but it was me allowing my flesh to become weak and not finishing the good fight. I know that GOD BLESSED me with a GIFT of teaching and I cant allow myself to forget the things I love about teaching. I often was very grateful because my students felt a special connection with me as if I really cared about them and they felt that I had a special interest in them. I don't want to loose that. I know that on my recent evaluations I see more and more students questioning my sincerity. I don't want my legacy with them to be what I felt about one of my old history teacher. I wont them to look back and think that I was that special teacher that they knew was a man of GOD who genuinely loved and cared about them. I have to finish the race
When I first joined the Church I was zealous and volunteered for things! I wanted to help out whenever I can. I had to be humbled because I was 27 asking to be an deacon of the Church. I settled for Usher but I continued the fight. This past year I have grew dim and find myself neglectful of my role as Usher cowardly not signing up hoping that in a round about way I wouldn't have to serve without requesting relief. I have to bounce back! I have to finish the race. Its not about how I started when I joined the Church, its HOW I FINISH! What legacy will I leave behind. When I die will I tell my boys "I used to do everything when you guys where little" or will I make a change so my boys can grow up saying "my dad has been serving faithfully in church as long as I can remember." I want my sons to know as Men they need to serve in leadership and ministry! I have to continue the fight!
I look at my role as father and I want to continue the path as head. I have to keep telling my wife I love her and praise GOD for her everyday. I have to flirt with my wife, take her out, get her 'just because' because I need to love my wife like JESUS told me to. I have to serve her like GOD shown us as JESUS CHRIST. My sons will look to me to model GOD'ly character as what a man should be like. I need to get back to reading scripture with boys , and continue to pray over and with them as family. WE HAVE TO FINISH STRONG!!!
These are my thoughts, I pray that when you go to church you take the time to ask GOD how HE wants you to apply his word! This is what I came away with , and I pray through reading this post you submit for what GOD is speaking through me!
ps. thanks Elder Joseph for submitting to GOD as he spoke today's sermon through you
2 Timothy 4:7-8
Today we talked about when Paul knew that he had finished the race, he fought a good fight. I thought today's sermon was amazing. We touched on how its all about how you finish. I have been reading Kings in depth and I see so many Kings who seem to start off well but end in a poor fashion and leave behind a legacy of sin. We often see these preachers that start of well and then the money and the fame corrupts them. I went on a rant on twitter at one point about how I used to be a big fan Kanye West and upheld him as a real MC and I really loved "JESUS WALKS" but now he seems lost and I see all these copy cat people that is making rap not only negative, (like it always been) but blasphemous. That is me looking at others but lets look at my thorn.
I often in the past year talked about perusing a new field and becoming tired at times but it was me allowing my flesh to become weak and not finishing the good fight. I know that GOD BLESSED me with a GIFT of teaching and I cant allow myself to forget the things I love about teaching. I often was very grateful because my students felt a special connection with me as if I really cared about them and they felt that I had a special interest in them. I don't want to loose that. I know that on my recent evaluations I see more and more students questioning my sincerity. I don't want my legacy with them to be what I felt about one of my old history teacher. I wont them to look back and think that I was that special teacher that they knew was a man of GOD who genuinely loved and cared about them. I have to finish the race
When I first joined the Church I was zealous and volunteered for things! I wanted to help out whenever I can. I had to be humbled because I was 27 asking to be an deacon of the Church. I settled for Usher but I continued the fight. This past year I have grew dim and find myself neglectful of my role as Usher cowardly not signing up hoping that in a round about way I wouldn't have to serve without requesting relief. I have to bounce back! I have to finish the race. Its not about how I started when I joined the Church, its HOW I FINISH! What legacy will I leave behind. When I die will I tell my boys "I used to do everything when you guys where little" or will I make a change so my boys can grow up saying "my dad has been serving faithfully in church as long as I can remember." I want my sons to know as Men they need to serve in leadership and ministry! I have to continue the fight!
I look at my role as father and I want to continue the path as head. I have to keep telling my wife I love her and praise GOD for her everyday. I have to flirt with my wife, take her out, get her 'just because' because I need to love my wife like JESUS told me to. I have to serve her like GOD shown us as JESUS CHRIST. My sons will look to me to model GOD'ly character as what a man should be like. I need to get back to reading scripture with boys , and continue to pray over and with them as family. WE HAVE TO FINISH STRONG!!!
These are my thoughts, I pray that when you go to church you take the time to ask GOD how HE wants you to apply his word! This is what I came away with , and I pray through reading this post you submit for what GOD is speaking through me!
ps. thanks Elder Joseph for submitting to GOD as he spoke today's sermon through you
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Sermon Reflection July 21, 2013
! Kings 27:2-6
Today we had a chance to understands GOD'S word about trusting GOD when he sends us on a mission. Elijah was told to go into the desert in seclusion after he just did what GOD told him to do. Elijah trusted and GOD and there was a brook of water waiting for him in the midst of a 3 year drought and filthy ravens came to bring bread and meat to him everyday out of nowhere. This shows how when GOD tells us to do something we should obey because he would always look out for us. The pastor pointed out how the Bible shows that no matter what we face, GOD always show provision over us.
Application
I know I shouldn't fear anything I know the spirit is leading me to do. GOD blessed us with the ultimate grace so the least we can do is obey him when he uses us in this world. We must obey to fulfill our roles as the salt of the earth! I know I have been placed in a position as a male mentor, and husband. I acted on faith when I moved into a new home and now its time to act on faith to preach ministry through this blog. My first thoughts was I don't have the training and the Bible knowledge to do ministry but prayerfully I am obedient to GOD so that I can let hims speak through me.
The last part of the sermon is about what happens when the well dries up. The brook eventually dries up because it was time for Elijah to move on. I know we have to understand that just because GOD blesses us in a certain way, sometimes it may be time to do something else. This is hard to do . We know the problem of being unstable but its just as dangerous to let yourself grow stagnate. This is easier said than done that's why I try to be sure to pray everyday for GOD's will in my life so I can know what GOD wants me to do. AMEN
Today we had a chance to understands GOD'S word about trusting GOD when he sends us on a mission. Elijah was told to go into the desert in seclusion after he just did what GOD told him to do. Elijah trusted and GOD and there was a brook of water waiting for him in the midst of a 3 year drought and filthy ravens came to bring bread and meat to him everyday out of nowhere. This shows how when GOD tells us to do something we should obey because he would always look out for us. The pastor pointed out how the Bible shows that no matter what we face, GOD always show provision over us.
Application
I know I shouldn't fear anything I know the spirit is leading me to do. GOD blessed us with the ultimate grace so the least we can do is obey him when he uses us in this world. We must obey to fulfill our roles as the salt of the earth! I know I have been placed in a position as a male mentor, and husband. I acted on faith when I moved into a new home and now its time to act on faith to preach ministry through this blog. My first thoughts was I don't have the training and the Bible knowledge to do ministry but prayerfully I am obedient to GOD so that I can let hims speak through me.
The last part of the sermon is about what happens when the well dries up. The brook eventually dries up because it was time for Elijah to move on. I know we have to understand that just because GOD blesses us in a certain way, sometimes it may be time to do something else. This is hard to do . We know the problem of being unstable but its just as dangerous to let yourself grow stagnate. This is easier said than done that's why I try to be sure to pray everyday for GOD's will in my life so I can know what GOD wants me to do. AMEN
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