Happy New Year!!!

If you are reading this at this particular moment, there is are a couple of things that you should be doing. First you should  be shouting, then you should be praising and after that you should celebrate! Why? Because God our Father in Heaven has blessed you with an opportunity to go into another New Year. Think about this for a moment, the dead can't move on, they can't feel sorry for themselves, they can't change their lives for the better and they don't have the opportunity to leave their past behind. But you, that's right you the person that's reading this does have that opportunity. You can move on, you can be better a person,friend, father, mother, parent, husband or wife and you can change or improve your life for the better. All of your past troubles, issues or problems are now behind you and you now have that opportunity to start fresh, over or anew. Don't wait until tomorrow to change or to improve your life, start doing it right now! Get rid of  the old things, stay away from hateful or negative people and begin it with something new. Right now you should have a new attitude, a new perspective, a new way of thinking and  you now have the opportunity to change your life. Begin this New Year ,by  praying and then latter celebrate! This up coming year, take this advice, as you advance into a New Year, by leaving your past behind you and beginning it with something new. Celebrate 2013, then rejoice, praise God for giving you this tremendous opportunity and please take advantage of it because its here. May God continue to bless you and your family. May you all have a very blessed New Year!!
Happy New Year!!
Charles
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
2 Peter 3:13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
Isaiah 66:22 "As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before me," declares the LORD, "so will your name and descendants endure.

From Trash To Treasure

Have you every been in a bad relationship or marriage? Did your ex-husband , ex-wife ,ex -boy friend or girl friend hurt you so bad that you are afraid of getting into another relationship or marriage? Are you scared of giving your heart to someone because of your past experiences? Have you every been treated so bad that you feel worthless or even unworthy of love or affection? Did you ex-husband, ex-wife leave you for another man or woman? Do you feel unwanted, unloved or sometimes feel like trash? Have you heard these very words from someone who you used to care and love you. ("I don't love anymore and you are not worth my time or effort"). Have you ever been judged, just because you happen to be to short, to tall, black or white, over weight, skinny or tall?Or have you been accused of being to smart or even too good to be true? If you have said yes to any of these questions, I just want you to know that you are not alone and that God loves you . I also want you to remember something that my mother told me as a child. She would always talk to me about why it was so important to have confidence in myself , to always remember that everything God created was beautiful and God made me that way I am.
 As I think back on my childhood I thank God for blessing me with a mother who loved me and a mother that was understanding enough to prepare me for the outside world. She would say to me that people in the outside world would not always view me the way she does. She would say Charles I love you and in my eyes you will always be a very handsome man. But one day you will meet a woman and fall in love. She first will love you and view you like I do, she will think that you are very handsome, smart and kind. But because of her unrealistic expectations of you, she will discover your flaws and find out that you are not perfect. Then her attitude will begin to change and that woman you fell in love with will not view you the same. Now in her eyes you are unworthy to be loved and now trash. You are unwanted and what ever good you have done is now unappreciated.
 After my mother finished with her sermon, I said," wow"!! Mom is this what I can expect when I start dating or even when I get married? Then I went on to say why put myself through all of this when I will only get my heart broken or better yet get used or abused?Then she smiled and said, because honey everyone needs to be loved and sometimes you have to go through the bad to get to the good. She went on to say suffering, heartache's, ups and downs are just a part of life, but you shouldn't get discouraged. Because one day you will meet someone who sees you just like I do and you will also meet someone who has the love of God in their hearts. She went on to explain God loves us all despite our flaws or even our short comings. He knows that we are all sinners and he loves us no matter what. In other peoples eyes you may be trash, but in Gods eyes you will always be a treasure.One day you will appreciate and thank God for going through all those bad and ungrateful women. Because having those bad experiences will make you a better man and it will also make you appreciate that good thing that God our Father says all men should find( A wife). In her eyes you will not be trash, you will be a treasure that she will praise God for as long as she lives. My mother was very wise and that is why I wanted to share this with the rest of the world. If you are hurting or feel unloved, do not be discouraged and do not give up on love. Because, God has that perfect man or woman out there for you and in their eyes you will never be trash and always a treasure. Always remember this someones trash is always someones else's blessing and treasure waiting to be found.

Have a blessed night,

Charles
1 John 2:1 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense--Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.

Three Sixty-Five

One of the greatest things about growing up or then getting older, is the lessons we all learn along the way. Life can sometime be very difficult,without our parents, teachers, Pastors, Priest, Mentors, God's Angels and our many life experiences, many of us would be lost. That's why I thank God everyday, three hundred and sixty-fives days of the year, for my many blessings. I not only thank him for my many successes, but also for my mistakes or failures. Why? Because those mistakes have made me stronger, wiser, and they also helped me grow. Now that I think back, I often remember what I first learned as a child. Some of us learned our alphabets, while others learn how to count or their numbers. But for me the mistake or failure were my most valuable learning experiences. I remember being in Kindergarten, trying to learn how many seconds were there in a minute, how many minutes in a hour, how many days in the week and then finally how many days in the year. It was there early in school where I learned from my first mistake in school and also who Jesus was. As a child I was very eager to answer any question the teacher would call out. Back then I thought I was so smart and I felt that I didn't have to study. Even though my mother would always insist that I should study before I attempted to take a test or exam. I can still hear her words still ringing in my ear, even as an adult in my late forties, when she would say," Charles never stop learning or growing and always pray and you should always do these things, three hundred sixty-five days of the year for as long as you live".

Its ironic that is the question, my teacher asked that I failed to answer. Everyone in classed laughed at me when I said, there are sixty seconds , instead of three hundred sixty- five days of the year. After that mistake I learned to pay attention more, not only to my Mother, Teacher or Pastor, but to everything or everyone around me. I learned to take my time , learn from my mistakes and not to make the same mistakes over and over again. I also learned to study and also to learn from others, so that I could be a better, smarter, wiser or stronger man. Also to praise God daily for my blessings, not only a few days of the week or on Sundays, but all through the year. Why? Because without him I couldn't  learn anything and also because he is not only my provider, but also my greatest teacher. I have learned a lot from our Father in Heaven since I became a Christian. I learned to trust him with my troubles, not to worry when when things go wrong and to always have faith three hundred and sixty-five days of the year, no matter what I go through. That's why I praise him, because he is not only good to me a few days of the week or the year, but also although the year, three hundred sixty five days of the year or always. For God is good not  just good ,some of the time, but all of the time! Sixty seconds of an minute,twenty four hours of the day, seven days of the week, three hundred sixty-five days of the year and always!

Have a blessed week,

Charles

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

James 1:12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

From Morning Till Night

Have you ever woke up with this feeling or said this to yourself after waking up, Its so wonderful to be alive? Or have you said this to yourself or had this particular thought , thank God for saving me, not only from the world, but also from myself? Sometime we can be our own worse enemy and when it comes to doing something wrong or when it comes to getting into trouble.This may sound funny, but some of us don't really need help from others, because when it comes to those things we happen to be real good at it. This reminds me of something my late grandmother would say when she was alive," Good habits are hard to keep, but bad habits are hard to break". She often preached this when I or when my brothers or sisters would do something wrong. She would go on to say practice doing and saying the right things, that way you will always stay in good graces not only with your parents but also with God. Develop good habits she would say while staring under her glasses, at one of my then drunk uncles and Lord, please don't pick up any bad habits! God, she would go on to say, has a way of dealing with those who refuse to listen or to do what's right.
 This reminds me of a verse in the Bible( Hosea 6:1 "Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds) In this verse it clearly states that sometimes when we rebel against our parents, our church and even from God, that sometimes God will deal with each of us personally. Sometimes we all need to be brought down a notch to see clearly who is in charge and where we all really get our blessings. To those who are blessed enough to read this, everything you do or achieve is only possible because God allows it and never forget that he is the only one who really deserves praise. When you get up in the morning start it off with prayer, thanking him for another day of life and for another chance at making things right. After all we are all sinners , we all make mistakes and each of us have some type issues or problems to work on. After the day is gone then get back on your knees and pray again. If you are blessed enough to read this ponder this thought ," God did spare you ,with his grace, also you did make it home safely and he does provide for all of your needs.  Isn't it wonderful to be alive? To be able too survive another day in this dangerous, crazy, and unpredictable world? Isn't God good?  I'll answer those questions for you. Yes its wonderful to be alive , God is good all the time and worthy to be praised! That's why I praise him 365 days of the year, from morning till night.
May God bless you always,
Charles

Jeremiah 33:6 "'Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security
Revelation 1:8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty

Being Patient

I often hear people talk about how hard it is to be patient. I think the reason people have a hard time being patient is because they do not know how important it is to be that way or why God demands this from his believer's.( Proverbs 14:29 A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.) The reason God demands that we be patient, is because God has a plan or purpose for our every breath. But as humans we are weak in the flesh and we often rush into things without consulting God. When we do things without consulting or trusting God we fail. So many businesses, marriages, relationships and churches fail, because they fail to include God or to make him first. The world has become so impatient, most of us want things now and do not want to wait. Most people often do things because of the way they feel, without thinking about the consequences for their actions. We want our children to grow up fast or early; we want our husbands or wives to be prefect or right for us even though we have not taken the time to learn about or understand them. Also we rush into things without thinking or using the brain that God has blessed us with. Technology , has made us all very lazy, spoiled and impatient. Most of us do not understand that God has an natural order that everything that lives has to follow and there is a reason why everything has its time or  seasons. What I mean by seasons, is there is a time when everything that God has created will show its true purpose on that given season. The same thing applies to a man or a woman. That is why there are people who progress early and some people late, because it was their time or season to do so. To anyone who is blessed enough to read this, be patient in all things, even when it comes to your own life. Always pray and consult God before you make any major decision. God has a purpose for us all and when our season comes we all will bare fruit, just like a fruit tree that has been planted for years. Always remember good things come to those who wait, but those who rush may walk into the arms of destruction.

Be blessed,

Charles

Lamentations 3:25 The LORD is good to them that wait for him, to the soul that seeks him.

Thankful

If you happen to be reading this at this moment, ask yourself this very personal question, What am I most thankful or grateful for? As you ponder an answers to this question, take a hard look at your life and while you are doing this also look around at the rest of the world. The reason why its so important to look around or view the rest of the world while you are evaluating your own space, is because it can or will put your own life in perspective. Even though its popular to complain, looking at someone else's struggles or situations will make you realize despite how you are living today, someone out there actually has it worse than yourself. As a matter of fact you are at this very moment living better than most people in foreign countries or even within your own country. Despite all of your issues, problems, troubles or struggles, God has been good to you and has provided for all of your needs. No one said that life would be easy, but with the grace of God, you have been blessed to see another Thanksgivings. Yes, its Thanksgivings, a time to be with family, maybe some friends and especially grateful or thankful to God for all of your blessings. On this holiday, be grateful for your blessings and thankful for whatever God has blessed or given you
Happy Thanksgivings! May you all have a very safe holiday.

Charles

1 Corinthians 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

 

 

A Second Chance

As I think about my life, I must say that I have had my share of good times and my share of bad times. The times in my life that I really appreciate the most is, when God our Father in Heaven has forgiven me for my many sins and despite my faults he still puts up with me. As sinners none of us want to talk about or admit the fact that we are not perfect and also that each of us has faults many of them hidden or unknown to others.Only God himself  knows of our many faults, sins or transgressions.(Psalm 139:12 Yes, the darkness hides not from you; but the night shines as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to you.) A lot of us are quick to criticize , talk about, then make fun of others when they fail , fall, commit a crime or when they fall from grace. To me its kind of amusing and sad that some of us take comfort in knowing that someone could loose everything or that they could go to jail for making a serious mistake. The question that I have for those who may judge is , Where would you be if God didn't give you a second, third, fourth and beyond a chance after your many failures, sins or unseen crimes? What if God didn't forgive you, where would you be then and how would you feel if God judged you as harshly as you or the rest world would judges others? I don't know about you, but I praise God daily and thank him everyday for forgiving a known sinner. He loves me despite my faults, sins or mistakes. All that he ask is that we his children forgive others as he has forgiven us all. When Jesus died , the bled on the cross, his very words were forgive them Father for they know not what they do. Question I have for you or to anyone that blessed enough to read this is , How do you expect to go to Heaven if you can't forgive or can't give those who may sin as many chances as God has given you.(Matthew 5:44 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.) Sometimes when people sin or make a mistake, all they need is a second chance.
Have a blessed night,
Charles
Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
Matthew 11:25 At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.

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Matthew 11:26 Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.

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Luke 22:42 "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."

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John 17:9 I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours.

Forgive

As I think about the world today, I can't help but to notice that we all live in a very unforgiving world. People these days are cold hearted, judgmental, mean and nasty, not only to the people they love, but also to complete strangers. When someone fails, falls from grace or makes an mistake everyone is quick to judge them. It seems these day people enjoy it when someone fails, makes a mistake or commits a crime so that they can be the next topic or discussion at their job or at work and even at their dinner tables. Parents, teachers, coaches, even some Pastor or Priest use someone crime, failure or failures as a topic to talk about all through the week and even on Sundays. The question I have for most of these people during this holiday season is, haven't you all forgot why Gods son Jesus died, bled and then sacrificed himself on the cross that day? Because if you say that you haven't forgot or that you already know the reason why, then let me remind you that Jesus not only died for our sins but also that we would learn to forgive others as he has forgiven you. Gods son was a living sacrifice not only proving his love for us, but also showing his people ,that despite ourselves or our sins that he could and has forgiven us all. God knows our sins, our crimes, our thoughts and there is no deep secrete that can be hidden from God. Despite them all he has in the past (with Jesus sacrifice) and even still today forgives us. God hasn't given up on his people and even when we fall short, he is still willing to, love, help, then forgive his children despite their sins.

When someone sins, commits a crime or even wrongs you God doesn't want you to hate, talk about them or to hold anything against them. In fact he want you to pray for them and forgive them.( Mark 11:25 And when you stand praying, forgive, if you have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.) When I did my research I found that the word forgive is in the Bible 81 times and that within itself should let you know how important it is to God that his people learn how to forgive.(Matthew 6:14 For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.) There are three verses in the bible that clearly states what God expect from us. Matthew 18:33-35 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed 35“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” In other words the way that you treat people while you are here on Earth is how God will treat you after death. My advice to anyone who is blessed enough to read this, love them, pray for them, then forgive and don't judge, because none who do are free from sin. Forgiveness doesn't change ones past, but it does enhance the future. As the word says, if you don't forgive them on Earth, you shall not be forgiven in Heaven. Forgive

Have a blessed weekend,

Charles

Matthew 26:28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

Don’t Take Matters into Your Own Hands

We all have a purpose driven life that is wonderfully planned by our Lord and Savior.  Jesus sets the perfect tone when He took up the cross, and paid the price that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.  When you think about those words how do they make you feel? Does it give you encouragement? Does it make you feel safe? Does it ease your doubts?  Does it say I know I’m protected?  Just think about that for a moment, he paid the ultimate price, a price that no man or woman on this earth could ever mustard up to do.  Now that is something to shout about and give all honor and glory to God.  I guess you may be wondering, what does that have to do with the topic, well my brothers and sisters it has everything to do with the topic.  I speak these profound words in order for you to open your spirit, your mind, and your heart for meditation, are you there yet?  Let’s get to the purpose of this message.  Throughout our life we will encounter trials and tribulation, experience hardship, marital problems, parental problems, loss a love one, problems on the job, learning how to sustain our flesh, relationships outside of marriage, even problems with church folks, yes I said church folks. 

Each concept is things we all deal with in our daily lives, but learning how to overcome and deal with these concepts during trying times takes patience, the amazing grace of God, and trust in God.  When we experience these problems we have an encounter with stress, weight loss, hair loss, overeating, loss of appetite, migraine headaches, dysfunctional ability to cope, discourage and disgusted, oh don’t let me forget gossipy. OMG! Did I just say that? Yes I did, if you can't say HALLALEUIAH, just say OUCH! Because the truth hurts and you know we all are guilty of at least two or three of these concepts.  I rather be honest then sugarcoat the truth and nothing but the truth!!  Now my question to you my dear friends, if we all know that God gave his only begotten Son that whoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life, and we all agree that Jesus our Lord and Savior gave his life so that we have everlasting life, and we believe all these things about Him, why is it when we something go through our trials and tribulation, and pray and ask Him to help us in our trying times, we at times take matters into our own hands,  Because if you remember, God already spoke these specific words for us to acknowledge, when we go through certain phases in life in the book of Matthew. 

Matt 6:25-34 says: 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. Let’s meditate, and remember those words that I just share with you from the very mouth of our Lord and Savior. 

Now, let’s get back to the troubling areas we face in our daily lives: experience hardship, marital problems, parental problems, family problems, loss a love one, problems on the job, learning how to sustain our flesh, relationships outside of marriage, even problems with church folks.  We face this problems, have trouble dealing with these problem, but the answer is learning how to conquer and overcome this problems without taking matters into our own hands.  Let start with verse 25 that applies to every situation we may encounter, this is what the Lord is telling us, not saying but telling: Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothes? Hey, the Lord is saying why worry about the things we have no power to change, change comes in time, is your faith, love, and trust in Him less than the things that has you bound and worried, if this is your status your priorities are out of order. 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Look what God is pointing out here: He has giving us life, not to add troubles upon us.  God would never leave us stranded without giving us help or a comforter in our time of need, but we tend to worry about things we cannot change instead of trusting Him, we try to take matters into our own hands, instead of being patient and relying on Him who has the Power to fix all things. Now the next verse will give you encouragement and hope, 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Now this is self-explanatory, and what God is saying, worry does not change the results we face through our trying times, the more we worry as the time goes by brings stress and we continue to doubt His works by our actions. Our worrying will not change His plan, we have to learn to be patient, and humble ourselves through tough times, because it is in His time not our time.  Everything takes time and a process, but through the process just continue to believe in Him.  Now these two verses are very inspiring: 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.   Those who serve God can be sure that he will help them to obtain the necessities even in difficult times. Jesus explained: “Seek continually [God’s] kingdom, and these things [such as the needed food and clothing] will be added to you.” (Luke 12:31) Yes, real benefits come from seeking God’s Kingdom.  Jesus was saying that the force that made that flower is greater than King Solomon and all his belongings.  Now what Jesus is saying to us is that He alone has the POWER to change any area in our lives, our complaints, is not what moves Him our faith in Him and the words He speaks should give us enough believeth to truth in His word.  If He built Solomon for nothing into something, He will do the same for us all.

Now that we have learned this great lesson as God spoke of worrying, will our life be sufficient if we continue to worry.  It’s not our job to worry about the things we cannot change during pressing times.  The only appointed job God give us to do is to continue to seek Him, and through our seeking receive His amazing grace.  Because with the Grace of God; we should never take matters into our own hands.  Remember what God said our thoughts are not His thoughts, and our ways are not His ways.  So the next time you think about taking matters into your own hands just remember the “Battle is the Lord’s” our battle is to remain humble, prayerful and continue to trust and believe in Him for our victory.  His amazing grace keeps us and protects us. 

The conclusion is simply, which is the will and command of our Lord Christ Jesus.  Daily prayers we will give us the strength, encouragement, to guide us under our daily troubles, arm us against the temptations that attend them, and then let none of these things move us. Happy are those who take the Lord for their God, and make full proof of it by trusting themselves wholly to his wise disposal. Let thy Spirit convince us of sin in the want of this disposition, and take away the worldliness of our hearts.

Be Blessed

Deedy

   

Seasons

When you become older you begin to really appreciate what seems like the small things or the things that many of us take for granted everyday. Also as you grow older you should realize how short time really is and take time out of your busy schedule, then admire the wonders of God. There are a lot of precious moments in each of our lives that we take for granted. But once they are gone we wonder what happen to it or why we didn't take time out to cherish them? What are those things you may ask? For me its the seasons, Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Out of these four I really enjoy or love two seasons especially Spring and Fall. The reason why I love these two is because both signals that a real change is yet to come. One signals that warmer, hotter weather and the other cooler or colder weather are yet to come. The ice begins to melt or the leaves begin to fall. But what makes them both unique is when the flowers or tress begin to bloom or when the leaves turn yellow or brown. The birds either are either coming or going, the sun sets differently and the time starts to change. If you paid close attention then you will realize that when spring or fall comes the fish begin to spawn and during the fall some fruit is just right for harvest. But even to the most trained eyes should realize is that these two seasons is when true love begins to blossom. These are the times when many of Gods creations mate and become one. To me there is nothing more beautiful than viewing baby birds in their nest, new born puppies, kittens or anything that God created in baby form. Even to a man its just plan beautiful and touches your heart. These are the two seasons or time of the year when God really shows out and says, look at what I can create.
 

These two seasons even touches man, if you haven't noticed this is when most people seek love, find  and fall in love. Its a known fact that , most human babies are born during these two seasons. When I walk through a mall, store or even when I am out and about, its hard not to notice when love is in the air. Viewing older or younger couples together makes even the most hardest person envious wishing it were them that were in love. When two of Gods greatest creations come together as one and fall in love, everyone notices. The children start to smile, some adults become envious and teenagers begin to think to themselves how wonderful would it be to be in love. Why is love so important to all of God creations? Because since the beginning of time everything that God created was made from love.( John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.) Humans embrace this very early in life, first by becoming one, then creating life and later loving their babies. As a matter of fact that's the very first thing a baby learns is how to love. They learn this before they begin to speak, walk or talk. Why? Because their mother or father love on them and care for them from the very beginning. That is why when we become teenagers and later adult we then seek love for ourselves. Its a wonder with so much love, who taught them or us how to hate. If you haven't found love, maybe you are looking or seeking it in the wrong season. Or maybe you haven't said the right prayer. So before I end this journal, I will allow you to borrow one of mine.
 

O God I bow my head to you as your humble servant, seeking your love, joy and your wisdom. Mighty God I love you, for all through my life you have provided for my needs and opened any door that was closed before me. I come to you seeking love, for everything you created was out of love. Send me, open my eyes to the one that was made especially for me. Amen. In your season God will grant you all the desires of your heart in Jesus name Amen.

Have a great weekend,

Charles

Isaiah 44:17 The rest of it he makes into a god, even his engraved image. He bows down to it and worships, and prays to it, and says, "Deliver me; for you are my god!"

Only You Jesus!

Do you have a feeling that something is holding you down or  keeping you from being blessed, happy or successful? Or do you sometimes feel that the weight of the whole world is against you? Throughout each of our lives we all will have our share of trails or tribulations and it doesn't matter who we are each of us will have our share of storms. All of us no matter where we come from will have had something in our past or in our present that keep us down emotionally. Why? Because each of us live in an imperfect world, where people will do or say evil things that sometimes hunt many of us for a lifetime. What makes it harder to go on is when our own family members, friends or spouses are the ones that have hurt us, lied on us, deceived us or have talked about us like dogs behind our backs. It makes one ask themselves, if I can't trust the people I love then who can I count on in my time of need? Who will be there for me through thick or thin? Who will never lie, cheat or deceive me? Who Lord will be there, when  I need them the most? Who can I count on to be by my side and when the going gets ruff? Who will always be there, then never abandon me in my time of need?

 Throughout my life I was always taught that if , man could talk about, then lie on Jesus Christ, Gods only son, who did no wrong, then why wouldn't we expect the same treatment from man? I don't know about you, but when I am troubled, heartbroken or in need of a blessing.  I always turn to that special someone that's proven never to lie, cheat or steal and when I need them the most they are always there. I try not to let worldly affairs effect my life or my judgment, because I know where I get my blessings.When others try to tear me down, God our Father you always there to build me up! That is why I love our Father in Heaven, because he understands our problems and our troubles. He never judges our situations and when in need he always provides a blessing, an open door or a way out. What man fails to realize, is when we need help we don't need to be criticized or reminded of our failures, all we need is help or a blessing. That why I praise our Father in Heaven and his son Jesus, because I know when I am in need they are the only ones , that I can count on. Only you Father in Heaven will never fail me and never abandon me in my time of need. Only you can heal me, remove my curse and  free me in my time of need! Only you can make whats impossible, possible! Only you can make a new way out of nothing! Only you Father! Only you Jesus! Praise Jesus! Praise God!

Have a blessed weekend,
Charles
Romans 10:9 If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

1 Corinthians 3:16 Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?

How To Get Your Man To Go To Church?

A question that I have heard or have been asked many times, Why are there so few men in church?Why won't they go or why do some men prefer watching a football or basketball game then being in the house of God? I have also heard may women say that's its hard or extremely difficult to get their man to come to church with them. I kind of find that some what amusing and I smile when I hear women make that statement. The question I have to most women is," Do you underestimate your abilities or your man or spouses desire for you? Or do you realize how much power you have in your relationship? For those women who may question what I just wrote, I would like for you to take the time to read and think and think about what I just wrote. Call this journal mind food or food for thought. The first thing I want women to realize is that each of you, are men greatest weakness, as well as men's greatest strengths and most women( if they put their minds to it) can convince the strongest man to do what ever they want.

From the beginning of time women have convinced men to do things they normally wouldn't have done under any circumstances.(Adam, Eve and the tree of Life) Both men and women are forever linked , because when God put Adam to sleep, then took his rib and created Eve. From that very moment men were weakened because of what God took from man. Another thing women must realize is if you are able to convince your man or spouse to do simple worldly things, like buying a home or purchase an automobile,then it should be easy to make him go to church. One of the oldest sayings I have heard is, If you can convince a man to part with his money, then you have more than his heart. You also have his mind, therefore you have all of him. If you really want your man to go to church with you, try using your powers of persuasion to get him there, just as you would for anything else. Make going to church yours and your spouses top priority, instead of the worldly things. Because without God there is no way either of you could posses the material pleasures that you both share or enjoy today. Besides that God blesses a marriage and is given glory when both hear his word. A family that prays together, stays together and a family that serves the Lord together will receive the full blessings of the Lord. So stop believing that you can not get your man to come church, don't give up or in and practice a little faith. Because in Gods own words, "You can do all things through Christ". How to get your man to church? Start off by buying him the best gift known to man, a bible and that will be a small but simple step to get your man to church.
Have a blessed weekend,
Charles
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerned of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

God Has Ordered My Steps

Monday is a day that most people hate to see and I always wondered why. Is it because as they would say, Its blue Monday or is it because if anything bad is going to happen it will be on Monday. Why are Mondays traditionally bad? Well it seems this day out of the six other days  is when trouble begins. Monday is the beginning of a new week and I think the devil figures he should get an early start on wreaking people lives and causing confusion on this day. But to me Monday, is beautiful and wonderful. Why you may ask?Well it reminds me of the many victories I have won on Gods behalf. I figure if I can get through a day, a week and maybe another year, then I know that I can get through any storm , trail or tribulation, that the devil  has puts in my path. With God our Father by my side and his son Jesus watching over me there is nothing that can get in my way.I know in my heart that God will take care of me.
 Has it always been this way for me or have I always been so confident or brave? Well the answer to those questions is no. I have not always been so strong or faithful. I have had doubt and I have question God our Father, Why must I go through these, trails, tribulations, test, confusion, mess and struggles? I have also asked God, Why are people so mean, hateful, destructive, heartless and cruel. I have also asked him, Why do some  good people have to die and why do most bad or some evil people always seem to prosper? Then I have asked  God this very personnel questions,Why is it that the  people I love and  trust the most are the very ones causing me this pain?
 Answers to those questions have been revealed to me in very different ways. Some have been revealed to me through the Bible, others through sermons from my Pastor, then some were answered by my wise parents or friends. But the main questions were answered by God himself. It was explain to in a dream that most of my problems, bad situations ,troubles or pains were not because of anyone else and also it was because I did not listen to him. I did not heed God warnings and I did not walk into those open doors that he provided me with. I let  fear or doubt keep me from escaping my troubles and I also let them keep me from being blessed. Instead of listening to God I chose to instead listen to man. When I should have just trusted God, then walked by faith and not by sight. That way I would have been blessed sooner, rather than latter. It was all my fault and now that I know the reason why ,I have changed .I learn from those storms,trials and tribulations.  Also by God allowing me to go through those things have only made me stronger.Now when the next  storm  heads my way, I do not fear it, because I know that I can get through it some how! I fear Mondays no more, even relish them and  then look forward to them. I am grateful for my bad situations because I know they only  make me stronger and have me better prepared for the future. I also know that going through them, I can learn how to avoid new ones and also I can help others avoid them too. I can give advice to my children, friend's or family, then become a blessing to them and others. I realized that without God, I wouldn't have been able to make it  through those storms. I also realize that, if  had just listen and practice a little faith those storms that  I went through, could have been avoided. Some storms that people go through is just another step or chapter in a person life. If you happen to be blessed enough to read this journal, just know this that God has ordered your steps and its already written or done.

Have a wonderful Monday,

Charles

2 Corinthians 1:24

Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.

Romans 11:20 Quite right, they were broken off for their unbelief, but you stand by your faith. Do not be conceited, but fear;

Chapters

As I often think about the many years of my life, I think of them as Chapters of a book. You may ask this question, "Why would one think of their years on Earth as Chapters"? Well for one every year brings a new or unique experience. I have discovered in my own life ,that it doesn't matter how old I have become or how much I may seem to know. There is always something new or someone that is unique in their own way that surprises me. As we grow older each of us experience things that we never thought would happen. As I speak for myself I never thought that I would grow old. I had this crazy notion that I would always look or be young forever. I also thought that everything I dreamed about becoming and everything I envision would come to pass. Many of us have those childhood dreams, believing that we may go to college, marry our high school sweethearts and live happy ever after. I had those same dreams, thought that when I got married to the woman of my dreams that I would stay that way forever or for a lifetime. Boy was I wrong! Now divorced its just another Chapter in my life and I had to moved on. I also had a dream that when I had children of my own, that they would be perfect children and I would be a perfect parent. But as you may know nothing in life is perfect but God. That is what life is really about moving on going through the good or the bad then leaving it behind. As my late grandmother would say it ," Baby you just  have to go on, but while going on use those past experiences to help shape you into a better man . She would go on to say ,"Never let those bad experiences scare or deter you". Always stay determine and never let or allow bad things from the past keeping achieving or accomplishing your dreams. Life is about over coming all of its obstacles. Climbing then reaching mountain top's, dreaming, then realizing your dreams. Yes life will present you with many obstacles, but if you are smart enough to avoid developing bad habits and strong enough to over come your fears, then with faith in God you can do almost anything. Its just a part of life and its already written. Those who handle life as it is are the ones that become successful. But those who complain are the ones that are stuck in the same place this time next year. Learn from your failures or mistakes and become better. Then forget about those bad chapters in your life and create good or new ones. Because as long as you live, you continue to write new chapters and  then create new beginnings. As I think about my late grandmother's very wise words, I now know that she is both wise and  right. I  know now, that I can not let my past effect my future and I shouldn't allow my bad experiences,  keep me from achieving my goals or from being blessed. I just  have too take everyday as it is or every year as a new learning experience. I have too  keep an opened mind, that way I allow myself to learn new things and open myself up to new possibilities .(Even the things that I am not interested in) Because what I have found is that sometimes past life experiences sometimes can help me avoid trouble and it may also let  me know if something or someone is good enough to pursue.

In all of our lives we have things or certain situations that could help or hinder our lives. In my own life I experienced a painful divorce, lost a job that paid me good money, had to move to another state, had car trouble and that's to name a few. But I didn't allow life circumstances or bad situations change me or who I was. Instead I  just kept my faith, believing in God and knowing one day soon it all would be better. I never gave up, because my son depended on me and just because my life was hard I didn't want that too affect my sons life. My advice to anyone who may read this, never use your past experiences as an excuse or a reason not to succeed, but instead use them as motivation. What do I mean by this statement? Many times many of us ,use our past as reasons why we haven't remarried, found someone special to love or we use them as reasons why we haven't been successful. When in fact those reasons are only an excuse and not a real reason not too go on with your life. Yes throughout every ones life, there will be many disappointments or failures. But instead of using our past experiences as reasons not to succeed, we all should instead become more determine not to fail.  Look at those experiences, like God looks at our lives, as another year or another Chapter in your life. If you are blessed to be still living, there is a good chance that you can or will change your life for the better. Look at your past experiences good or bad as learning experiences. Also look at your past years as a road map to help you avoid trouble or as a guide to help you take advantage of things that may make you a success.  Like my late grandmother would always say, the more you grow in knowledge, the more wise or successful you will become. As I look at my own life, I live it with this one positive thought in mind. I survived another year with the grace of God and now that I have learned from my past failures or mistakes I will not travel that same route or road again. What I have also learned is life itself, is a leap of faith. First you walk , then you fall, then you get right up and try harder again. My late grandmother used to always say, It doesn't matter in life how many times you fail. What really counts is how many times you get up from your failure. She would say, "Never give up, never stop trying, in fact try harder and pray more often" ! And when everything you do or try  fails, then lean on God for the strength and understanding. From the knowledge passed on to me from my late grandmother, parents and others, I  use that same knowledge or wisdom, to make the next Chapters or years of my life, the best ever.
Have a wonderful day,
Charles
Ezekiel 36:25-26
I will sprinkle clean water on you and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. 26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you ,your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.

Expect More

When I look at the world today its easy to determine that being ordinary or being just like everyone is normal. But if you happen to be a Christian or one that believes in God, then you should know that God expects more from you. In fact he doesn't want you to be just like everyone else in the world, he wants you to be different,knowledgeable, unique,extraordinary, fearless,confident and above anything petty that the world offers. In other words just because there are bad or terrible things going on in the world you shouldn't let that effect or change who you are. Never allow bad people or terrible situations ruin your mood or effect your personality. For the word says( John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.) Expect more, demand more from yourself, become a better father, mother,husband, wife, friend, Christian or what ever you chose to be in life, because God our Father in Heaven expects more or nothing less but the best from his believers.

Have a blessed day,

Charles

1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Limits

I remember while growing up as a child, my mother and father would ask me this question," What did I want to be when I grow up"? As a child I was eager to answer their question, because just like any other child, I had so many dreams, hopes or desires and I truly believed that anything was possible. My parents to their credit never dispelled, my beliefs and always told me that if I put my mind to it then all things were possible. As they would put it, Charles there is nothing in the world that you can't accomplish, if you are willing to study, do the work and go after your dreams then you can do anything. Now that I am older all I can say is wow! Why you may ask? Well because the Bible says the very same thing (Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.) As a child, I never had the fears, that I now have as an adult and I truly believed that anything was possible. I didn't place limits on myself, because at the time I wasn't aware that I could fail. I think that is why when I was a child, I would put a sheet on the back of my shirt and try to fly, because just like superman, because I believed that I could.

 Now that I am older I wonder what happened to my youthful enthusiasm. If I could fault my parents for anything while they were raising me, it would be that they didn't teach me how to deal with failure or to never forget that even though we all get older we should always believe that all things are sill possible despite our age. That's why I am encouraging you, if you happen to be reading this at this hour, to never place barriers or limits on your life. Don't let or allow your age or current situation  keep from achieving your dreams, goals or desires. Go after them just as you did as a child and as the Bible says, fear nothing but God. For the Bible also says if a man or woman has faith then all things are truly possible through God. (Mark 9:23 "'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes.") Limits are only there for those who don't believe and have place them on themselves.

Have a blessed night,

Charles

Matthew 21:21 Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.

What's Up God?

Have you ever wanted to ask God a question or have a conversation with him? Really? I am talking about a real conversation like two normal consenting adults. I know you may be saying to yourself, "Well if I wanted to ask him something, I would just ask him through prayer or I would ask my Pastor or Priest to speak to him on my behalf". But what I am talking about is a direct question that he would soon answer, just like Moses did back in his time. Sometimes when I read the Bible, I become a little envious, because despite all of our technology, our cell phones, I-pads, computers and other marvels from man, none of us have the ability to talk directly to God. There are no mountains to climb, no burning bushes or even angels to speak too our behalf. Our only connection is a brief minute or two on our knees when we pray to God and our hour or two in church on Sunday's. Of course many of us have Pastors, Priest or other type of religious leaders, but none of them have that same connection as past religious leaders had when there wasn't a need for such advance technology.

It makes one want to ask these question, What's up God? Why aren't you talking or saying anything directly to your believers? I know in your own way you speak to us or lead us where you would like us to go. But now we need you more than ever! I know that you are aware of the issues, the problems or troubles of the world today and I also understand that it is in your plan. (Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.) I know we are not suppose live our lives in fear, but the world we live in is kind of scary. Our world is in turmoil and there is so much pain, we need the mighty hand of Jesus to heal our pain. I know that no man or woman knows the hour or the day when your Son Jesus will grace us with his presence again, but we need you in this hour, this day and through our week as we all deal with our everyday pain. I know you are there God speak to us, lead us , heal this world, take away forever, the hate, the lies and pain. What's up God? I know you hear each of us in our prayers, lead us so we won't be led astray, into temptation and far away from sin. Besides my questions Lord, I would like to say thank you! I appreciate every blessing and opportunity you have given me. Thank you Jesus for providing for me even when I wasn't deserving of your blessings.

Have a blessed day,

Charles
Psalm 139:17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!

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Psalm 139:18 Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you.

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Isaiah 25:1 O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago.

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Isaiah 55:8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.

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